Matthew J O'Brien

Matthew J O'Brien, MD, is an Associate Professor in the Department of Medicine at the Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, with joint appointments in Preventive Medicine. His research focuses on eliminating health disparities in U.S. Latino populations through community-engaged interventions using culturally-competent community health workers.

His educational background includes:

• MD from Brown University (2004)
• Internal Medicine Residency at Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania (2007)
• Robert Wood Johnson Clinical Scholars Program Fellowship at University of Pennsylvania (2010)

Dr. O'Brien specializes in health disparities research, particularly developing community health worker (promotora) programs for diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and cancer prevention in Latino communities. His work combines qualitative and epidemiologic methods to identify intervention targets and advocates for integrating community-based resources with traditional healthcare systems. Key research areas include social determinants of health, health policy, and primary care innovation.

Recent publications (2024-2025) demonstrate consistent focus on diabetes prevention in Hispanic populations, technology access disparities, and social determinants of health. His work emphasizes community partnership models and addresses systemic barriers to healthcare equity.

Scientific recognition includes:

• Community Engagement Award from Feinberg School of Medicine (2022)

Dr. O'Brien maintains strong community partnerships through affiliations with the Center for Diabetes and Metabolism, Institute for Public Health and Medicine (IPHAM), Northwestern University Clinical and Translational Sciences Institute (NUCATS), and Ryan Family Center for Global Primary Care. His research model prioritizes community-driven priorities and equitable collaboration with community leaders.