Translational research entails the process of utilizing knowledge from basic biology and clinical trials to develop interventions that address serious medical issues. There are various ways in which translational research is vital in promoting equitable access to healthcare services in addition to enhancing the provision of preventive services. For instance, it helps reduce the gap between science and clinical practice (Lupatini et al., 2019). The gap between science and practice has been reported due to various issues such as the absence of evidence-based recommendations and minimal studies demonstrating clinical validity (Patel, 2018). Translational research has been vital in integrating basic science and clinical practice to promote human health. It has been vital in formulating improved treatment alternatives and preventative approaches. Translational research has also been vital in informing evidence-based policy and practice (Kilbourne et al., 2022). The outcomes of this type of research can be utilized to help in the development of evidence-based policies and practices. As a result, there is a promotion of healthcare services and preventative services. Lastly, translational research can enhance healthy equity by addressing social determinants that address health disparities (Tucker et al., 2019). It will be vital in determining and dealing with health disparities hence promoting equity. There has been evidence that translational research can be used to inform policy in the United States. One of those policies is the Affordable Care Act which has been continually modified using translational research (Oh et al., 2021). For instance, some provisions have sought to reduce healthcare disparities by seeking to promote health by reducing the uninsured. Therefore, it promotes coverage among the diverse population through Medicaid coverage.

References

Kilbourne, A. M., Garrido, M. M., & Brown, A. F. (2022). Translating research into policy and action. Health Services Research57(S1), 5–8. https://doi.org/10.1111/1475-6773.13980 Lupatini, E., Barreto, J. O., Zimmermann, I. R., & da Silva, E. N. (2019). Medicines and translational research: steps, actors, and health policies in the Brazilian context. Saúde Debate42(2). https://doi.org/https://doi.org/10.1590/0103-11042019S214 Oh, A., Abazeed, A., & Chambers, D. A. (2021). Policy implementation science to advance population health: The potential for Learning Health Policy Systems. Frontiers in Public Health9https://doi.org/10.3389/fpubh.2021.681602 Patel, N. (2018). Bridging the gap of Translation Research in public health – from research to Real World. MOJ Public Health7(6), 347–349. https://doi.org/10.15406/mojph.2018.07.00266 Tucker, C. M., Kang, S., & Williams, J. L. (2019). Translational research to reduce health disparities and promote health equity. Translational Issues in Psychological Science5(4), 297–301. https://doi.org/10.1037/tps0000215