Margo Barr

Associate Professor Margo Barr is an epidemiologist affiliated with the Faculty of Medicine at UNSW Sydney. She currently serves as the Research Head of the Health Systems and Equity Research Program, focusing on large-scale cohort studies, behavior risk factors, disease surveillance, and data linkage methodologies. Her work emphasizes improving primary healthcare access and welfare for vulnerable populations, including older adults, carers, and individuals experiencing homelessness.

Her research interests span public health equity, chronic disease prevention, healthcare utilization patterns, and the integration of technology (e.g., mobile apps) to enhance healthcare delivery. She has contributed significantly to studies on obesity risk factors, smoking cessation impacts on cancer survival, and the sociodemographic determinants of advance care planning. Recent projects include evaluating virtual health hubs for homeless populations and analyzing disparities in emergency department visits among culturally diverse groups.

Barr’s studies often leverage population-level data such as the 45 and Up Study and NSW Population Health Survey, demonstrating expertise in methodological rigor for public health research. Her publications highlight critical issues like multimorbidity’s impact on mortality and healthcare systems, as well as strategies to reduce hospital burden through primary care engagement.

She actively participates in interdisciplinary partnerships, advocating for equitable and sustainable healthcare solutions. Her leadership in research programs underscores a commitment to translating data-driven insights into actionable policies and interventions.