Alina I. Palimaru

Alina I. Palimaru is a Professor of Policy Analysis at the RAND School of Public Policy and a policy researcher at RAND. Her work centers on the intersection of poverty and health, with a focus on health outcomes, quality of life, disability, mental health, substance use, housing, homelessness, and food insecurity, particularly among marginalized populations such as American Indian/Alaska Native communities.

Education:

• Ph.D. in Health Policy and Management, UCLA Fielding School of Public Health
• M.P.P., American University
• B.A. in History, Politics, and Communication, Drexel University

Her research employs mixed methods and emphasizes culturally responsive approaches. She investigates sleep health, identity development, and substance use prevention among urban Native youth, and explores food insecurity and social vulnerability in Los Angeles County. Palimaru also studies care coordination in permanent supportive housing and behavioral interventions for chronic disease management.

Her recent publications reveal a strong trend in health equity research, particularly with vulnerable populations. She frequently employs qualitative and mixed methods to understand patient experiences, identity, and resilience. Her work spans public health, policy analysis, and community-based interventions, often contributing to actionable recommendations for health systems and policymakers.

Scientific Awards:

• Silver Collision Award for social impact
• Four Bronze Telly Awards (social impact and animation)
• Three Silver Telly Awards (social impact, animation, and accessibility)
• Three Platinum dotCOMM Awards
• Four Gold dotCOMM Awards

Palimaru is deeply involved in knowledge transfer through award-winning films and webinars. She has served as producer and co-producer on health care films adopted by NHS centers and UK NGOs. Her work often involves collaboration with community stakeholders, particularly in developing culturally grounded interventions. She has contributed to evaluations of telemedicine, global payment programs, and behavioral health workforce policies, demonstrating a broad impact across health systems and policy domains.

Labs and Teams: She collaborates with RAND research teams focused on health equity, housing, aging, and substance use. Her projects often involve partnerships with community organizations, particularly those serving Native American populations and individuals experiencing homelessness.