R. Sunderland

Papers

Total Citations

H-Index

About

Dr. R. Sunderland is a health services researcher whose work critically examines the intersection of healthcare policy, insurance coverage, and clinical practice, with a particular focus on radiation oncology. In their most cited study, "Local Coverage Determination Policy and the Use of Stereotactic Body Radiation Therapy for Prostate Cancer" (2015), Dr. Sunderland investigated how local coverage determinations (LCDs)—regional insurance decisions—influence the adoption of advanced treatments like stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT) for prostate cancer. By analyzing patient, tumor, and market characteristics alongside policy impacts, this work provided essential insights into how regulatory frameworks can shape clinical access and technology diffusion. Though the study has garnered 3 citations, its significance lies in its pioneering examination of policy-driven disparities in cancer care. Dr. Sunderland’s research bridges health economics and oncology, offering a data-driven perspective on how local decisions affect national treatment patterns. Their contributions are particularly valuable for students and researchers interested in the real-world implications of healthcare policy, highlighting the critical need for evidence-based coverage decisions to ensure equitable access to innovative therapies.