Megha Jha | Telehealth and Telemedicine | Best Researcher Award

Ms. Megha Jha | Telehealth and Telemedicine | Best Researcher Award

Senior Researcher | Center for Improving Value in Health Care | United States

Dr. Megha Jha is a public health researcher and healthcare data analyst with over eight years of experience in health economics, outcomes research, and program evaluation, integrating advanced analytics with applied public health policy to promote equitable healthcare delivery. As a Senior Evaluation and Research Analyst at the Center for Improving Value in Health Care (CIVHC) in Denver, Colorado, she leads evaluations using the Colorado All Payer Claims Database (CO APCD) to address issues such as dental care access, Medicaid unwind, COVID-19 impacts, telehealth utilization, and social determinants of health. Her expertise spans healthcare claims analysis, policy evaluation, and disparities research, employing SAS, SQL, R, and Tableau to generate actionable insights for agencies and nonprofits serving underserved and BIPOC communities. She has co-authored several peer-reviewed publications in Preventive Medicine, Toxins, African Journal of AIDS Research, and the American Journal of Hospice and Palliative Medicine, advancing understanding of how structural and socioeconomic factors influence health outcomes. Previously, she held analytical and epidemiological roles at the University of Alabama at Birmingham and the Alabama Medicaid Agency, contributing to NIH-funded studies and state-level health program evaluations. Trained as both a dentist (BDS) and an epidemiologist (MPH, University of Alabama at Birmingham), Dr. Jha brings an interdisciplinary perspective bridging clinical practice and population health research. Through collaborations with academic institutions, state agencies, and initiatives such as the Multi-State Data Initiative (MSDI), she continues to strengthen the evidence base for data-driven policy and equitable healthcare transformation, making a sustained impact on public health systems locally and globally.

Featured Publications

Akinyemiju, T., Jha, M., Moore, J. X., & Pisu, M. (2016). Disparities in the prevalence of comorbidities among U.S. adults by state Medicaid expansion status. Preventive Medicine, 88, 196–202.

Jolly, P. E., Akinyemiju, T. F., Jha, M., Aban, I., Gonzalez-Falero, A., & Joseph, D. (2015). Temporal variation and association of aflatoxin B₁ albumin-adduct levels with socio-economic and food consumption factors in HIV-positive adults. Toxins, 7(12), 5129–5140.

Jolly, P. E., Padilla, L. A., Ahmed, C., Harris, C., Mthethwa, N., Jha, M., Ba, I., Styles, A., Hope, S. P., Brooks, R., Naluyinda-Kitabire, F., Mamba, M., & Preko, P. (2018). Barriers to antiretroviral therapy initiation for HIV-positive children aged 2–18 months in Swaziland. African Journal of AIDS Research, 17(2), 193–202.

Ford, D. H., Jardim, R., Landry, K., Jha, M., Nwi-Mozu, I., Joines, K., & Isiogu, M. (2025). Impact of provider health information exchange services on patient utilization of emergency room and inpatient practices in Colorado. Journal of Clinical Medicine, 14(21), 7783.

Ford, D. H., Landry, K., Jha, M., & Meyer, M. (2025). Hospice care in Colorado: A claims-based identification approach. 2025 AcademyHealth Annual Research Meeting.

Dr. Megha Jha’s research advances data-driven public health policy by translating complex healthcare data into actionable insights that promote equity, efficiency, and access in healthcare systems. Her work bridges epidemiology, health economics, and data science to inform evidence-based interventions that reduce disparities and strengthen population health outcomes globally.

Olympia Anastasiadou | Digital Healthcare | Best Review Paper Award

Mrs. Olympia Anastasiadou | Digital Healthcare | Best Review Paper Award

Deputy director of nursing department at University of Western Macedonia School, Greece

Olympia Anastasiadou is a highly qualified healthcare professional and researcher, demonstrating a strong interdisciplinary background with degrees in Nursing, Health Management, Bioethics, and ongoing doctoral studies in Digital Health Services. As Deputy Director of Nursing at the General Hospital of Thessaloniki, she integrates clinical leadership with academic insight, focusing her research on digital health, bioethics, and healthcare management. Her work addresses critical issues such as ethical dilemmas, digitalization of health services, and patient autonomy, with several peer-reviewed publications in respected journals. Olympia’s research is timely and relevant, particularly in the context of crisis-driven healthcare transformation. While her work shows great depth and societal impact, expanding her international collaborations and increasing her presence in high-impact global journals would further elevate her profile. Overall, Olympia’s contributions to healthcare research and practice make her a strong and deserving candidate for the Best Researcher Award, reflecting both academic excellence and real-world relevance.

Professional Profile 

Education

Olympia Anastasiadou possesses a rich and multidisciplinary educational background that underpins her contributions to healthcare and research. She earned her undergraduate degree in Nursing from the National and Kapodistrian University of Athens in 2003. She holds two Master’s degrees—one in Health and Welfare Unit Management from the International Hellenic University, completed with honors in 2021, and another in Modern Medical Procedures, Legal Regulation, and Bioethics from the Medical School of Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, also completed with distinction. Her academic excellence is evident in her consistent top performance and commitment to bridging clinical practice with ethical and administrative considerations. Currently, she is pursuing a PhD in the Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering at the University of Western Macedonia. Her doctoral research focuses on digital health services during crises, reflecting a forward-thinking and innovative approach to healthcare delivery. Olympia’s education reflects a strong foundation in both healthcare practice and strategic leadership.

Professional Experience

Olympia Anastasiadou has extensive professional experience that combines clinical leadership, healthcare management, and academic research. Since 2020, she has served as the Deputy Director of the Nursing Service at the General Hospital of Thessaloniki “G. Gennimatas,” where she plays a pivotal role in overseeing patient care quality, staff coordination, and operational efficiency. Her position allows her to bridge the gap between hands-on nursing practice and administrative strategy, ensuring the implementation of high standards in health service delivery. Olympia’s leadership is informed by her academic background in health management and bioethics, allowing her to address complex healthcare challenges with ethical insight and strategic planning. In addition to her administrative duties, she actively participates in healthcare research, contributing to publications on service quality, employee satisfaction, ethical dilemmas, and digital health transformation. Her dual expertise in clinical practice and health systems management positions her as a key contributor to the advancement of modern healthcare.

Research Interest

Olympia Anastasiadou’s research interests lie at the intersection of healthcare, ethics, and digital innovation. She is particularly focused on the ethical, administrative, and practical dimensions of healthcare delivery in the modern era. Her work explores digital health services, especially in times of crisis, aiming to understand how technology can enhance patient care while preserving ethical standards and human dignity. She is deeply interested in the digitalization and interoperability of health systems, examining both the benefits and the ethical dilemmas they pose. Olympia also investigates issues related to informed consent, patient autonomy, and decision-making for patients unable to express their will. Additionally, she studies employee satisfaction, total quality management in health services, and the impact of organizational culture on care delivery. Her multidisciplinary approach, combining nursing, health management, and bioethics, allows her to address healthcare challenges holistically, making her research both socially relevant and practically impactful in shaping the future of healthcare systems.

Award and Honor

Olympia Anastasiadou has received several academic honors that reflect her dedication to excellence in healthcare and research. She graduated with distinction from both of her postgraduate programs—first, the Interdepartmental Postgraduate Program in “Management of Health and Welfare Units” at the International Hellenic University, and second, the postgraduate program in “Modern Medical Procedures, Legal Regulation and Bioethical Dimension” at the Aristotle University of Thessaloniki Medical School. These honors recognize her outstanding academic performance, analytical capabilities, and deep engagement with complex ethical and administrative issues in healthcare. In addition to her academic achievements, Olympia has earned professional recognition through her appointment as Deputy Director of the Nursing Service at the General Hospital of Thessaloniki “G. Gennimatas,” a role that signifies trust in her leadership, expertise, and contributions to healthcare improvement. Her consistent pursuit of excellence and recognition by academic and professional institutions underscores her commitment to advancing quality and ethics in healthcare.

Research skill

Olympia Anastasiadou possesses a diverse and well-rounded set of research skills that span across clinical practice, healthcare management, bioethics, and digital health. She demonstrates strong capabilities in qualitative and quantitative research methodologies, particularly in designing and conducting surveys, literature reviews, and case studies that address real-world healthcare issues. Her analytical skills are evident in her ability to interpret complex data, assess service quality, and evaluate patient and staff satisfaction within healthcare institutions. Olympia is also skilled in exploring ethical dimensions of medical practice, especially in contexts involving informed consent, patient rights, and digital transformation. Her doctoral research on digital health services in times of crisis highlights her ability to connect technological advancement with human-centered care. Additionally, her experience in publishing across interdisciplinary fields showcases her writing, critical thinking, and academic communication skills. Olympia’s research proficiency allows her to produce work that is not only academically rigorous but also impactful in shaping modern healthcare systems.

Conclusion

Olympia Anastasiadou demonstrates strong suitability for the Best Review Paper Award, particularly due to:

  • The relevance and quality of her 2025 review article,

  • Her interdisciplinary and ethical insight into healthcare innovation,

  • And her ongoing commitment to academic and professional excellence.

Publications top Noted 

1. Digital Healthcare Innovative Services in Times of Crisis: A Literature Review

  • Authors: Olympia Anastasiadou, Markos Tsipouras, Panagiotis Mpogiatzidis, Pantelis Angelidis

  • Year: 2025

  • Journal: Healthcare

  • DOI: 10.3390/healthcare13080889

  • Publisher: Multidisciplinary Digital Publishing Institute (MDPI)

2. Issues of Consent to Medical Procedures by Patients Who Are Unable to Externalize Their Will—Living Wills

  • Author: Olympia Anastasiadou

  • Year: 2023

  • Journal: Surgical Chronicles

  • EID: 2-s2.0-85173945170

  • ISSN: 1108-5002

Oluwaseun Badru | Health Professions | Best Researcher Award

Mr. Oluwaseun Badru | Health Professions | Best Researcher Award

PhD Scholar and Researcher at The University of Iowa, United States

Oluwaseun A. Badru is a dedicated researcher in public health, currently pursuing a Ph.D. in Community and Behavioral Health at the University of Iowa. With a strong academic foundation, including an MSc in Public Health and a Bachelor’s in Physiotherapy from the University of Lagos, his research focuses on HIV prevention, health disparities, and public health interventions. He has extensive professional experience as a Graduate Research Assistant, Technical Advisor for Scientific Writing, and Monitoring & Evaluation Research Officer. Badru has authored numerous peer-reviewed publications in reputable journals, addressing critical health issues such as antiretroviral therapy adherence, HIV self-testing, and healthcare worker migration. His commitment to global health is evident through his involvement in various leadership, advocacy, and capacity-building programs. With a strong track record in research, publications, and professional contributions, Badru is a promising candidate for the Best Researcher Award, showcasing excellence in scientific inquiry and impactful public health advancements.

Professional Profile 

Education

Oluwaseun A. Badru has a strong academic background in public health and physiotherapy. He is currently pursuing a Ph.D. in Community and Behavioral Health at the University of Iowa, focusing on HIV prevention, health disparities, and public health interventions. Prior to this, he earned a Master of Science (MSc) in Public Health from the University of Lagos, where he developed expertise in epidemiology, health policy, and disease prevention strategies. His academic journey began with a Bachelor’s degree in Physiotherapy from the University of Lagos, equipping him with foundational knowledge in healthcare delivery and rehabilitation sciences. Throughout his education, Badru has actively engaged in research, contributing to scholarly publications and advancing evidence-based public health solutions. His multidisciplinary academic background, spanning public health and physiotherapy, has positioned him as a well-rounded researcher dedicated to improving community health outcomes and addressing critical global health challenges through innovative and data-driven approaches.

Professional Experience

Oluwaseun A. Badru has extensive professional experience in public health research, epidemiology, and healthcare interventions. He is currently a Research Assistant at the University of Iowa, where he focuses on HIV prevention, health disparities, and community-based health interventions. Prior to this, he worked as a Research Fellow at the Nigerian Institute of Medical Research (NIMR), contributing to multiple public health projects, including infectious disease surveillance and intervention programs. With a background in physiotherapy, he has also provided clinical services, integrating rehabilitation with public health strategies to improve patient outcomes. His expertise extends to data analysis, health policy evaluation, and community engagement, making him a key contributor to evidence-based healthcare solutions. Through his professional journey, Badru has collaborated with governmental and non-governmental organizations, playing a vital role in health promotion, disease prevention, and research aimed at addressing global health challenges, particularly in underserved communities.

Research Interest

Oluwaseun A. Badru’s research interests lie at the intersection of public health, epidemiology, and health disparities, with a particular focus on infectious disease prevention and control. His work primarily explores HIV/AIDS prevention, community-based healthcare interventions, and the social determinants of health affecting marginalized populations. He is passionate about leveraging data-driven approaches to improve health outcomes, utilizing epidemiological modeling, biostatistics, and health policy analysis. Badru is also interested in the impact of healthcare access and behavioral health interventions on disease prevention, especially in resource-limited settings. His research extends to non-communicable diseases, where he examines the role of lifestyle and rehabilitation in managing chronic illnesses. Through his studies, he aims to bridge gaps in healthcare equity, inform public health policies, and contribute to sustainable health solutions. His commitment to interdisciplinary research fosters collaborations that drive innovation in disease prevention and improve healthcare delivery in underserved communities.

Award and Honor

Oluwaseun A. Badru has received numerous awards and honors in recognition of his contributions to public health research and epidemiology. His outstanding work in infectious disease prevention and healthcare interventions has earned him accolades from academic institutions, professional organizations, and government agencies. He has been the recipient of prestigious research fellowships and grants that have supported his groundbreaking studies on HIV/AIDS prevention and community-based healthcare initiatives. Badru has also been honored for his excellence in public health advocacy, receiving awards for his role in improving healthcare accessibility in underserved communities. His contributions to scientific literature and public health policy have been acknowledged through invitations to speak at international conferences and symposia. Additionally, he has received commendations for his leadership in epidemiological research, further solidifying his reputation as an influential figure in global health. His numerous recognitions reflect his dedication to advancing health equity and improving public health outcomes worldwide.

Research Skill

Oluwaseun A. Badru possesses a diverse and highly specialized set of research skills, particularly in the fields of epidemiology, public health, and data analysis. He is proficient in designing and conducting large-scale epidemiological studies, utilizing advanced statistical methods to analyze complex health data. His expertise in quantitative and qualitative research methodologies enables him to generate valuable insights into disease patterns, healthcare accessibility, and intervention effectiveness. He is skilled in using statistical software such as SPSS, STATA, and R for data modeling and trend analysis, allowing him to identify critical public health issues and propose evidence-based solutions. Additionally, Badru excels in systematic literature reviews, meta-analyses, and policy evaluation, ensuring that his research is grounded in comprehensive and up-to-date scientific evidence. His ability to collaborate with interdisciplinary teams and communicate findings effectively through scholarly publications and conferences further enhances his impact in the field of public health and epidemiology.

Conclusion

Oluwaseun A. Badru is a strong candidate for the Best Researcher Award due to his extensive publication record, impactful research in public health, and contributions to global health initiatives. His work addresses critical health challenges in both developed and developing nations, demonstrating broad relevance. Strengthening his research leadership, securing competitive grants, and expanding mentorship roles would further solidify his qualifications for high-level research recognition.

Publications Top Noted

  • Title: Injuries in male and female semi-professional football (soccer) players in Nigeria: prospective study of a National Tournament
    Authors: OBA Owoeye, AI Aiyegbusi, OA Fapojuwo, OA Badru, AR Babalola
    Year: 2017
    Citations: 40

  • Title: Task shifting and task sharing in the health sector in sub-Saharan Africa: evidence, success indicators, challenges, and opportunities
    Authors: BM Yankam, O Adeagbo, H Amu, RK Dowou, BGM Nyamen, SC Ubechu, OA Badru
    Year: 2023
    Citations: 22

  • Title: Prevalence and predictive factors of hypertension among people living with HIV in Kebbi State, Nigeria: a cross-sectional study
    Authors: O Badru, T Oduola, A Abdulrazaq, C Peter
    Year: 2022
    Citations: 11

  • Title: Effectiveness of linkage to care and prevention interventions following HIV self-testing: a global systematic review and meta-analysis
    Authors: OA Adeagbo, OA Badru, CN Nkfusai, LE Bain
    Year: 2024
    Citations: 8

  • Title: Mental health status of doctors and nurses in a Nigerian tertiary hospital: A COVID-19 experience
    Authors: OA Olude, K Odeyemi, OJ Kanma-Okafor, OA Badru, SA Bashir, et al.
    Year: 2022
    Citations: 7

  • Title: In Vitro Antimalarial Activity of Extracts of Some Indigenous Plant Species in Kebbi State
    Authors: A Abdulrazaq, B Abdulkadi, NT Isyaku, M Yahaya, OA Badru, K Alkali
    Year: 2020
    Citations: 7

  • Title: Community-engagement in research in humanitarian settings
    Authors: LE Bain, C Ngwayu Nkfusai, P Nehwu Kiseh, OA Badru, L Anne Omam, et al.
    Year: 2023
    Citations: 6

  • Title: Determinants of social support among people living with HIV in Nigeria–a multicenter cross-sectional study
    Authors: OE Babalola, OA Badru, LE Bain, O Adeagbo
    Year: 2023
    Citations: 6