David Hurtado, Sc.D.
- Associate Professor, Oregon Institute of Occupational Health Sciences
- Associate Professor, OHSU-PSU School of Public Health
Biography
I am a social epidemiologist researching workplace determinants of health. My research portfolio includes epidemiological studies and applied research projects aimed at enhancing worker well-being and safety across healthcare and other high-risk industries.
As an applied researcher, I collaborate with employers, regulators, and community-based organizations to design, implement, and evaluate safety programs. My work integrates theoretical and methodological tools from various public health disciplines. I focus on healthcare workers exposed to multiple stressors and safety hazards, which elevate the risk of musculoskeletal disorders and mental health conditions. A distinct feature of my research is the development of semi-structured, adaptive organizational interventions, where workplace teams and leaders receive training in hazard control and prevention, supportive supervision, and safety leadership, empowering them to address workplace challenges effectively. My epidemiological research investigates organizational and modifiable drivers of occupational injuries and diseases for workers in high-risk industries in Oregon and beyond.
I am the Principal Investigator of an AHRQ-funded R01 research grant that evaluates the process and effectiveness of a workplace intervention to reduce risk factors for both patient and worker safety outcomes in rural critical access hospitals. I am also the Multiple Principal Investigator (with Abigail Lenhart, MD, OHSU) on a NIOSH-funded workplace trial focused on reducing burnout among primary care employees. Additionally, I lead the Oregon Occupational Public Health program (with Jen Seamans, MPH, Oregon Health Authority), where I direct the Oregon Fatality Assessment and Control Evaluation Program.
I hold a secondary appointment at the OHSU-PSU School of Public Health. I teach Social Determinants of Health (CPH521), advise students in the Public Health Practice MPH program, and serve on various committees. I am a member of the editorial board for Occupational Health Science and actively participate in several professional and academic associations.
I received my graduate and postgraduate training at the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health. Additionally, I hold a specialization in Occupational and Organizational Psychology from Universidad El Bosque, Colombia, and dual BAs in Psychology and Anthropology from Universidad de los Andes, Colombia.
Education and training
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Degrees
- B.A., 2005, Universidad de los Andes (Anthropology)
- B.A., 2006, Universidad de los Andes (Psychology)
- M.Sc., 2010, Harvard School of Public Health
- Sc.D., 2013, Harvard School of Public Health
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Fellowship
- Yerby Postdoctoral Research Fellow 2013-2015
Areas of interest
- Total Worker Health
- Quality Improvement
- Musculoskeletal Disorders
- Occupational Injuries
- Mental Health
- Workplace Interventions, Policies and Programs
- Social Determinants of Health