The first studies conducted by CHCR, then the Health Media Research Laboratory, set the stage for nearly a decade of diverse health communications research projects. They focused on health information and decision-making, and used innovative research and communication strategies. Since then CHCR has conducted a wide variety of health-related research projects targeting a range of audiences. Communication media vary per project and its purpose, from print to e-surveys and highly tailored websites. Most projects use and test degrees of tailoring to refine communications and increase effectiveness. Some use novel designs like the multi-player web-game that functions as an aid in making health insurance decisions. At present the Center is engaged in a number of studies for a variety of sponsors. One set of projects, the Center of Excellence in Cancer Communications Research, aims to define a model for health behavior interventions that can be generalized across health issues and populations.
