Health Outcomes and Policy Effects
Advancing Pediatric Health Through Data, Research, and Policy
The Health Outcomes and Policy Effects (HOPE) Laboratory is dedicated to transforming how pediatric healthcare is delivered—using data-driven research to improve outcomes for children at both the clinical and policy level.

Postoperative
Pain Management

Strategies for
Opioid-Sparing

Surgical
Clinical Outcomes

Pharmacoepidemiology
Research Strategies
The strength of HOPE Lab lies in its people.
Turning Research Into Real-World Impact
Our work goes beyond discovery. By leveraging large-scale clinical and administrative datasets, collaborating across institutions, and conducting rigorous clinical studies, we generate insights that directly inform healthcare practices and policy decisions.
From improving postoperative care to advancing opioid stewardship in children, our research is designed to create safer, more effective treatment pathways—and ultimately, better health outcomes for every child.
A Collaborative, Multidisciplinary Team
Together, we’re shaping the Future of Pediatric Care
Our team includes surgeons, biostatisticians, clinical researchers, fellows, and students—each bringing unique perspectives and a shared commitment to improving pediatric healthcare. Together, we foster a collaborative environment that bridges clinical expertise with public health, policy, and data science.
At HOPE Lab, we believe research should lead to action.
By translating evidence into practice and policy, we are helping redefine standards of care, reduce risks, and improve the lives of children and families across the country.
About Our Research
Advancing Pediatric Care Through Safer Clinical Practices
The HOPE Lab conducts advanced health services research using large pediatric datasets such as PHIS, KID, and NSQIP Peds, enabling the team to answer meaningful clinical questions through robust, data-driven insights. This work is strengthened by a strong collaborative approach, partnering with national organizations like the Western Pediatric Surgical Research Consortium (WPSRC) and working closely with leading research groups across USC in public health, addiction science, and health policy
