Sally Romero

Sally Romero is an Associate Project Scientist in the Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences at the University of California, San Diego School of Medicine. Her research focuses on the critical intersection of cancer survivorship and reproductive health, with particular emphasis on improving access to fertility preservation services and integrative pain management for cancer patients and survivors.

• PhD in Public Health - Health Behavior from UCSD/SDSU Joint Doctoral Program
• MPH in Public Health - Health Promotion from Oregon State University

Dr. Romero's research program spans several interconnected domains in women's oncology. She investigates implementation of state health insurance mandates for cancer-related fertility preservation, examining how policy translates into real-world patient access. Her work on integrative medicine approaches, particularly acupuncture and massage therapy for cancer-related pain, demonstrates attention to both clinical effectiveness and health disparities, especially among Hispanic populations. She has developed digital health tools like the Cancer Related Infertility Score Predictor to improve fertility risk counseling, and pioneered telehealth interventions such as the Telehealth Oncofertility Care (TOC) program to address geographic barriers to care for rural patients.

Analysis of Dr. Romero's publication trajectory reveals a cohesive research program focused on removing systemic barriers to quality care for cancer patients facing reproductive health challenges. Her work consistently bridges clinical practice, health policy, and patient experience, with growing emphasis on implementation science methodologies. The progression from foundational studies on fertility preservation access to sophisticated clinical trials of telehealth interventions demonstrates increasing methodological sophistication and impact. Her research shows particular attention to vulnerable populations including rural residents, young cancer survivors, and ethnic minorities.

Dr. Romero maintains a robust collaborative network at UCSD, working closely with Dr. Hui-chun Irene Su, Dr. Bonnie Kaiser, Dr. Sara McMenamin, and Dr. Maria Aristizabal across multiple funded projects. Her research appears to be supported by substantial extramural funding given the scale of her clinical trials and implementation studies. While specific grant details aren't provided, her work likely involves NIH, foundation, and possibly PCORI funding given the nature of her research questions.

Dr. Romero's laboratory or research team appears to operate within the broader context of UCSD's Altman Clinical and Translational Research Institute, focusing on implementation of evidence-based practices in real-world settings. Her work involves close partnerships with clinical oncology and reproductive endocrinology teams to ensure research relevance and applicability.