Multiple HPRS scholars took to the stage to share their research with the public health community at this year’s American Public Health Association Conference in Atlanta, Georgia. Paul Shafer—one of the presenting scholars—showcased his project “Effects of Advertising for a State-based Health Insurance Marketplace on Information-seeking Behavior” for the Delta Omega panel, along with other health researchers from around the country. A doctoral student in health policy and management at the UNC Gillings School of Global Public Health, Paul was selected from a pool of applicants for consideration by the Delta Omega national office.

“I was excited and honored to represent the Gillings School and share this work with the public health community at APHA this year,” said Paul. His presentation was especially timely, given the recent reduction in federal advertising for the current enrollment period.

As part of the Health Policy Research Scholars program, Paul is measuring the effect of coverage gains under the Affordable Care Act on emergency department and primary care utilization, with a focus on the previously uninsured. His research also touches on the impact of advertising on gains in insurance coverage and health exchange usage at the federal, state, and local levels. To learn more about Paul’s background and work, visit his profile page.