University of Florida

About the Lab

Located in the Health Professions, Nursing and Pharmacy (HPNP) building on the University of Florida campus, the Laboratory provides a private, convenient and well-equipped location to conduct qualitative research. Perfect for focus groups, observational research or individual interviews, the conference-style room is equipped with a wall-mounted video camera with a monitor for observation, as well as two portable audio tape recorders and omni-directional microphones. A large conference table can comfortably accommodate 10-15 individuals, and an observation area can accommodate two to three researchers or observers.

A professional staff transcribes video and voice tapes. Data analysis is performed using ATLAS.ti or NUD*IST software.

Recent projects include:

Research in Sickle Cell Disease

• Health-related Quality of Life in Sickle Cell Disease
• Health Care Transition for Sickle Cell Disease Patients
• Experience and Narratives of Pain among Sickle Cell Disease Patients

The Department of Pharmaceutical Outcomes and Policy and the College of Medicine are working together to define issues that contribute to quality of life in patients with sickle cell disease who have transitioned from a pediatric to an adult-oriented health care system. Research objectives include the creation of a disease-specific quality of life instrument and an investigation of the transition experience to guide the development of effective sickle cell disease transition programs. Issues of pain and pain management are also being explored.

Research in Panic/Anxiety Disorder

• Culturally Sensitive Health Care Interventions for Panic/Anxiety Disorder
• Group-based Treatment Programs for African American Women with Panic Disorder

The Department of Pharmaceutical Outcomes and Policy is working with the Departments of Psychiatry, Sociology and Clinical and Health Psychology, and the Shands Jacksonville Community Health Center, to develop culturally appropriate treatment programs for African American, Caucasian and Hispanic women with panic disorder. The current stage of research focuses on designing a group-based collaborative treatment model for African American women with panic disorder.