Sarah Halbert

Papers

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About

Dr. Sarah Halbert is a thoracic surgeon and health services researcher whose work focuses on the adoption and optimization of minimally invasive surgical techniques, particularly within the Veterans Affairs (VA) healthcare system. Her primary research areas include video-assisted thoracic surgery (VATS), surgical disparities in veteran populations, and the implementation of evidence-based practices in real-world clinical settings. Dr. Halbert’s major contribution lies in critically evaluating the barriers to VATS adoption at VA medical centers, where uptake has historically lagged behind the private sector. Her 2023 narrative review on VATS utility in veterans, which has garnered early citations, provides a foundational analysis of how systemic and patient-specific factors influence surgical outcomes in this unique population. This work is notable for bridging the gap between clinical innovation and practical application in a safety-net system. By highlighting the challenges and opportunities for expanding minimally invasive thoracic surgery in the VA, Dr. Halbert is helping to shape future quality improvement initiatives and surgical training protocols, ultimately aiming to improve access and outcomes for the nation’s veterans.