Rachel Bensen

Rachel Bensen is a Clinical Associate Professor in Pediatrics - Gastroenterology at Stanford University School of Medicine. She is a member of the Maternal & Child Health Research Institute (MCHRI) and holds board certifications in Pediatric Gastroenterology and Pediatrics. Her clinical focus is on pediatric gastroenterology, with an emphasis on improving healthcare delivery systems for children and adolescents with chronic illnesses. She has a strong background in healthcare innovation, evidenced by her fellowship at the Clinical Excellence Research Center at Stanford.

Education:

• MD: Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical School (2007)
• MPH: Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health (2002)
• BA: University of Pennsylvania (1999)

Research Interests: Dr. Bensen’s research focuses on optimizing chronic disease self-management skills, patient-reported outcomes, transition from pediatric to adult healthcare, and supporting families of children with chronic illnesses. Her work bridges clinical practice and public health, addressing disparities in healthcare access and outcomes for vulnerable populations.

Publications: Her recent work includes studies on novel treatments for pediatric ulcerative colitis, neurologic complications in heart-liver transplants, and the role of self-compassion in adolescents with inflammatory bowel disease. These publications highlight her interdisciplinary approach to pediatric health challenges.

Awards/Grants: While specific awards are not listed, her active research collaborations and leadership in academic medicine reflect institutional recognition of her contributions.

Labs/Teams: She collaborates with the Maternal & Child Health Research Institute and the Stanford Clinical Excellence Research Center, focusing on innovative solutions for pediatric healthcare delivery.