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As Global Professor in Rural Health and Social Care, Professor Mark Gussy's academic career has been characterised by a pursuit for equity in health care, particularly in rural and coastal communities.
With a strong foundation in oral health and a diverse academic background, Mark has embarked on a mission to unravel the complexities of health disparities experienced by vulnerable and marginalised communities, carving a path as a leading figure in the field of rural health and social care.
His academic career is underscored by an extensive record of research contributions. Mark has secured over £13.3 million in funding and spearheaded numerous groundbreaking studies, spanning complex intervention trials, longitudinal cohort analyses, and innovative qualitative methodologies.
Lincoln, both the place and the University, is a fantastic place to do research. The University's civic commitment to Lincolnshire makes developing connections and relationships with people and community groups part of business as usual. For social, health, and clinical research this is invaluable.
Professor Mark Gussy
Global Professor in Rural Health and Social Care
Mark's work goes beyond traditional disciplinary boundaries, encompassing health service research, clinical practice, community engagement, and advocacy. His approach looks to tackle exclusion and ensure that vulnerable communities have access to the resources and support they need for optimal health and wellbeing. His work also extends well beyond academic research, through active engagement in shaping public policy and discourse and his advocacy for community-driven solutions.
"The impact of my work is twofold," explains Mark. "Firstly, the health and wellbeing improvements we see at individual and community level means we are contributing to closing the gap between the most and least well-off. Secondly, the public’s direct contribution to our research and decision-making process means that the outcomes of our research are useable in local contexts."
This is a key focus of the transformative work taking place the Lincoln Institute for Rural and Coastal Health (LIRCH). With nearly £11 million in funding, LIRCH aims to tackle place-based health inequities. “Coastal and rural communities can be disproportionately impacted by economic problems, weather-related disasters, and climate change in addition to longstanding health challenges and poorer access to services," says Mark, who is the Institute's Director. "Linking the geospatial, environment, and weather influences with traditional population health sciences will develop a more sophisticated understanding of the broader determinants of health and wellbeing.”
The Lincoln Institute for Rural and Coastal Health brings together leading academics and specialists to conduct world-class interdisciplinary research that aims to address the most challenging health issues facing rural and coastal communities, locally, nationally, and internationally.
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One of Mark's notable projects includes research into the health risks faced by long-term residents in temporary housing on Lincolnshire’s East Coast. This study highlighted significant exposure to risk factors for Type 2 Diabetes among these residents, who often have high health and care needs due to multiple chronic conditions.
Reflecting on this work, he says: “This is the first study of its kind that has looked in detail at the health and well-being of caravan park residents on Lincolnshire’s East Coast. We have been able to identify some important place-based influences on health and ill-health.”
My approach aims to dismantle entrenched systems of exclusion, ensuring that marginalised populations have access to the resources and support they need to achieve optimal health and wellbeing that transforms lives.
Professor Mark Gussy
Global Professor in Rural Health and Social Care
As well as the millions of pounds of research funding, Mark's academic portfolio boasts over 140 peer-reviewed publications and more than 3,000 citations, highlighting his standing in the field.
As a leading figure in the field of rural health, Mark continues to inspire transformative change, bridging the gap between research, practice, and policy to create a healthier, more equitable world for all. His dedication to improving health outcomes for the most vulnerable populations remains a driving force behind his extensive and impactful career.
You can find out more about Professor Mark Gussy's research projects, publications, and subject specialisms on his staff profile pages.
Working across sectors and disciplines and alongside regional, national, and international partners, our academics are engaged in groundbreaking studies that are challenging the status quo and making a tangible difference to the world around us.