CONCEPTUALIZING VULNERABLE POPULATIONS HEALTH-RELATED RESEARCH

Background: A conceptual model for vulnerable populations research rel ates resource availability and relative risk to health status. The mod el has a population-based focus that places responsibility for the col lective health status of its citizens with the community. Vulnerable p opulations are social groups who experience limited resources and cons equent high relative risk for morbidity and premature mortality. There is considerable research evidence to support the major relationships in the model. Conceptual links that need additional research are ident ified. Conclusions: The implications for research include a variety of methodological problems related to recruiting and retaining participa nts, instrumentation, and data collection. Research designs are needed that move beyond descriptive and epidemiological approaches to interv entional and outcome studies. Ethical considerations take on special s ignificance with vulnerable populations.