Assistant Professor, Management Science and Statistics
Professor Karimi’s research is positioned at the intersection of Global Health, Healthcare Supply Chains, and Socially Responsible Supply Chains. In particular, his research endeavors are focused on improving access to essential health commodities (e.g., contraceptives, antimalarials, HIV medication) in Low- and Middle-income Countries (LMICs). For individuals who are deprived of access to such essential health commodities, the consequences can be dire. For example, without reliable access to contraceptives, women may suffer unintended pregnancies, imposing economic and psychological burden, and adverse health outcomes including injuries, infections, and even deaths. HIV patients unable to obtain antiretrovirals may face delays in treatment initiation and interruptions during the treatment process, subsequently increasing the risk of viral resistance, treatment failure, and mortality.
Focusing on this context, Karimi’s research aims to:
(i) Empirically evaluate and uncover the factors that contribute to health commodity stock-outs in developing countries by leveraging field data and using a combination of rigorous econometric and predictive modeling techniques;
(ii) Generate actionable insights that public health organizations, governments, and donors can use to mitigate the risk of stock-outs in developing countries.