Written by Solaf Al Awadhi, MBBS, MSc., Scientific Writer
I am a fourth-year doctoral student in the Health Psychology PhD program at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA). My time is split between research and teaching as I work to better understand how patients navigate complex medical decisions. Whether it’s about participating in clinical trials or accessing supportive care, my focus has always been on empowering patients to make informed choices about their health.
I have had the privilege of working alongside the Patient Engagement, Diversity, and Education Research Laboratory, a team whose commitment to health equity and patient-centered care inspires me daily. This collaboration aligns with my research interests, which stem from personal experiences growing up with a family member managing chronic renal and cardiovascular disease. Watching them navigate the complexities of treatment ignited my passion for helping others feel engaged and empowered in their healthcare journeys.
Currently, I’m working on my dissertation under the mentorship of Dr. Amy Waterman, the Director of this incredible interdisciplinary team. My project focuses on improving shared decision-making between patients and physicians during the kidney transplant process. With their feedback, I aim to develop interventions that educate patients about their transplant options, facilitating more effective communication and improving outcomes.
A Community of Mentorship and Collaboration
One of my favorite aspects of working with the Patient Engagement Lab is their collaborative approach. During team meetings, I present updates on my dissertation, which explores how patients decide between accepting a marginal kidney or remaining on the waitlist. The lab’s diverse expertise, spanning ethics, health economics, and clinical practice, has provided me with invaluable perspectives. Their feedback ensures my work addresses the multifaceted challenges patients face and translates into meaningful interventions.
Life Beyond the Lab
When I’m not immersed in research, you can find me outdoors. Growing up in Northern California, I developed a love for hiking and diving, which has evolved into hobbies like SCUBA diving, film photography, and exploring new trails with my two adventurous dogs. This past summer, I hiked through Patagonia and explored Machu Picchu via the Inca Trail—a dream come true for an avid traveler like me.
Looking Ahead
I’m thrilled to continue collaborating with the Patient Engagement Lab and hope to build research that not only informs but also transforms the way patients and providers approach medical decisions. By working together, I’m confident we can make a real difference in improving healthcare equity and empowering patients to lead healthier, more informed lives.
Let’s stay connected and keep driving meaningful change in healthcare!