Michael Hoerger

Michael Hoerger, Ph.D., M.S.C.R., is an Associate Professor of Psychology, Psychiatry, and Oncology at Tulane University's School of Science & Engineering. A clinical health psychologist and decision scientist, he conducts research focused on improving quality of life for adults with cancer through studies of healthcare decision-making, patient-provider communication, and health disparities. His work emphasizes increasing palliative care utilization and draws from translational psychological science, integrating basic research on personality, emotion, and decision-making.

Dr. Hoerger's research interests span psycho-oncology, palliative care integration, health decision science, and healthcare disparities. His translational approach bridges psychological theory with clinical applications in oncology and palliative care settings.

His recent publications predominantly focus on palliative care delivery, healthcare disparities, pandemic responses, and methodological innovations in psycho-oncology research, reflecting a consistent emphasis on improving end-of-life care and addressing systemic healthcare challenges.

Dr. Hoerger directs a research lab, contributes to editorial boards (Health Psychology), and serves as a grant reviewer for PCORI. He also manages web platforms for professional societies and pioneered Tulane's implementation of the LA CaTS Center's Roadmap Award.