Research Topics & Ideas: Healthcare

100+ Healthcare Research Topic Ideas To Fast-Track Your Project

By: Derek Jansen (MBA) | Reviewed By: Dr. Eunice Rautenbach | Updated January 2025

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Healthcare is a dynamic field, offering endless opportunities for meaningful research. Choosing the right healthcare research topic is the first step to making a valuable contribution to this ever-evolving industry.

Here we’ve curated a list of 100+ healthcare research topics. This list covers a diverse range of areas, including public health, healthcare management, mental health, telemedicine, nursing, and global health issues. Whether you’re exploring innovative treatments or policy challenges, you’ll find plenty of ideas to spark your research.

P.S. If you’re new to academic research, be sure to check out Topic Ideation 101, our free webinar which covers the basics of the research topic ideation process.

Allopathic Medicine

Allopathic medicine focuses on evidence-based, conventional approaches to diagnosing and treating diseases. These research topics explore advancements in medical technology, the impact of lifestyle factors, and the effectiveness of various treatment modalities in addressing global health challenges:

  • The effectiveness of telemedicine in remote elderly patient care.
  • The impact of stress on the immune system of cancer patients.
  • The effects of a plant-based diet on chronic diseases such as diabetes.
  • The use of AI in early cancer diagnosis and treatment.
  • The role of the gut microbiome in mental health conditions such as depression and anxiety.
  • The efficacy of mindfulness meditation in reducing chronic pain: A systematic review.
  • The benefits and drawbacks of electronic health records in a developing country.
  • The effects of environmental pollution on breast milk quality.
  • The use of personalised medicine in treating genetic disorders.
  • The impact of social determinants of health on chronic diseases in Asia.
  • The role of high-intensity interval training in improving cardiovascular health.
  • The efficacy of using probiotics for gut health in pregnant women.
  • The impact of poor sleep on the treatment of chronic illnesses.
  • The role of inflammation in the development of chronic diseases such as lupus.
  • The effectiveness of physiotherapy in pain control post-surgery.

 

Alternative Medicine

Alternative medicine explores holistic approaches and traditional practices to promote health and manage diseases, offering complementary options to conventional treatments. These research topics highlight the effectiveness, benefits, and challenges of alternative therapies across diverse health conditions:

  • The benefits of herbal medicine in treating young asthma patients.
  • The use of acupuncture in treating infertility in women over 40 years of age.
  • The effectiveness of homoeopathy in treating mental health disorders: A systematic review.
  • The role of aromatherapy in reducing stress and anxiety post-surgery.
  • The impact of mindfulness meditation on reducing high blood pressure.
  • The use of chiropractic therapy in treating back pain of pregnant women.
  • The efficacy of traditional Chinese medicine such as Shun-Qi-Tong-Xie (SQTX) in treating digestive disorders in China.
  • The impact of yoga on physical and mental health in adolescents.
  • The benefits of hydrotherapy in treating musculoskeletal disorders such as tendinitis.
  • The role of Reiki in promoting healing and relaxation post birth.
  • The effectiveness of naturopathy in treating skin conditions such as eczema.
  • The use of deep tissue massage therapy in reducing chronic pain in amputees.
  • The impact of tai chi on the treatment of anxiety and depression.
  • The benefits of reflexology in treating stress, anxiety, and chronic fatigue.
  • The role of acupuncture in the prophylactic management of headaches and migraines.

 

Dentistry

These research topics explore advancements in dental treatments, the role of lifestyle factors, and innovative techniques to improve patient outcomes:

  • The impact of sugar consumption on the oral health of infants.
  • The use of digital dentistry in improving patient care: A systematic review.
  • The efficacy of orthodontic treatments in correcting bite problems in adults.
  • The role of dental hygiene in preventing gum disease in patients with dental bridges.
  • The impact of smoking on oral health and tobacco cessation support from UK dentists.
  • The benefits of dental implants in restoring missing teeth in adolescents.
  • The use of lasers in dental procedures such as root canals.
  • The efficacy of root canal treatment using high-frequency electric pulses in saving infected teeth.
  • The role of fluoride in promoting remineralization and slowing down demineralization.
  • The impact of stress-induced reflux on oral health.
  • The benefits of dental crowns in restoring damaged teeth in elderly patients.
  • The use of sedation dentistry in managing dental anxiety in children.
  • The efficacy of teeth whitening treatments in improving dental aesthetics in patients with braces.
  • The role of orthodontic appliances in improving well-being.
  • The impact of periodontal disease on overall health and chronic illnesses.

 

Veterinary Medicine

These research topics explore innovations in animal care, the impacts of environmental and genetic factors, and the role of veterinary science in global challenges:

  • The impact of nutrition on broiler chicken production.
  • The role of vaccines in disease prevention in horses.
  • The importance of parasite control in animal health in piggeries.
  • The impact of animal behaviour on welfare in the dairy industry.
  • The effects of environmental pollution on the health of cattle.
  • The role of veterinary technology such as MRI in animal care.
  • The importance of pain management in post-surgery health outcomes.
  • The impact of genetics on animal health and disease in layer chickens.
  • The effectiveness of alternative therapies in veterinary medicine: A systematic review.
  • The role of veterinary medicine in public health: A case study of the COVID-19 pandemic.
  • The impact of climate change on animal health and infectious diseases in animals.
  • The importance of animal welfare in veterinary medicine and sustainable agriculture.
  • The effects of the human-animal bond on canine health.
  • The role of veterinary medicine in conservation efforts: A case study of Rhinoceros poaching in Africa.
  • The impact of veterinary research on the development of new vaccines for animal health.

 

Physical Therapy & Rehab

Physical therapy and rehabilitation focus on restoring function, improving mobility, and enhancing the quality of life for individuals recovering from injuries or managing chronic conditions. These research topics explore innovative techniques, therapy modalities, and emerging technologies in rehabilitation:

  • The efficacy of aquatic therapy in improving joint mobility and strength in polio patients.
  • The impact of telerehabilitation on patient outcomes in Germany.
  • The effect of kinesiotaping on reducing knee pain and improving function in individuals with chronic pain.
  • A comparison of manual therapy and yoga exercise therapy in the management of low back pain.
  • The use of wearable technology in physical rehabilitation and the impact on patient adherence to a rehabilitation plan.
  • The impact of mindfulness-based interventions in physical therapy in adolescents.
  • The effects of resistance training on individuals with Parkinson’s disease.
  • The role of hydrotherapy in the management of fibromyalgia.
  • The impact of cognitive-behavioural therapy in physical rehabilitation for individuals with chronic pain.
  • The use of virtual reality in physical rehabilitation of sports injuries.
  • The effects of electrical stimulation on muscle function and strength in athletes.
  • The role of physical therapy in the management of stroke recovery: A systematic review.
  • The impact of pilates on mental health in individuals with depression.
  • The use of thermal modalities in physical therapy and its effectiveness in reducing pain and inflammation.
  • The effect of strength training on balance and gait in elderly patients.

 

Optometry & Ophthalmology

Optometry and ophthalmology explore advancements in eye care, addressing the challenges posed by lifestyle changes, environmental factors, and emerging technologies. These research topics examine prevention, management, and innovative solutions for maintaining and restoring ocular health:

  • The impact of screen time on the vision and ocular health of children under the age of 5.
  • The effects of blue light exposure from digital devices on ocular health.
  • The role of dietary interventions, such as the intake of whole grains, in the management of age-related macular degeneration.
  • The use of telemedicine in optometry and ophthalmology in the UK.
  • The impact of myopia control interventions on African American children’s vision.
  • The use of contact lenses in the management of dry eye syndrome: different treatment options.
  • The effects of visual rehabilitation in individuals with traumatic brain injury.
  • The role of low vision rehabilitation in individuals with age-related vision loss: challenges and solutions.
  • The impact of environmental air pollution on ocular health.
  • The effectiveness of orthokeratology in myopia control compared to contact lenses.
  • The role of dietary supplements, such as omega-3 fatty acids, in ocular health.
  • The effects of ultraviolet radiation exposure from tanning beds on ocular health.
  • The impact of computer vision syndrome on long-term visual function.
  • The use of novel diagnostic tools in optometry and ophthalmology in developing countries.
  • The effects of virtual reality on visual perception and ocular health: an examination of dry eye syndrome and neurologic symptoms.

 

Pharmacy & Pharmacology

Pharmacy and pharmacology focus on the development, use, and management of medications to optimise patient care and outcomes. These research topics explore innovations in medication management, the role of pharmacists, and the impact of healthcare policies and technologies:

  • The impact of medication adherence on patient outcomes in cystic fibrosis.
  • The use of personalised medicine in the management of chronic diseases such as Alzheimer’s disease.
  • The effects of pharmacogenomics on drug response and toxicity in cancer patients.
  • The role of pharmacists in the management of chronic pain in primary care.
  • The impact of drug-drug interactions on patient mental health outcomes.
  • The use of telepharmacy in healthcare: Present status and future potential.
  • The effects of herbal and dietary supplements on drug efficacy and toxicity.
  • The role of pharmacists in the management of type 1 diabetes.
  • The impact of medication errors on patient outcomes and satisfaction.
  • The use of technology in medication management in the USA.
  • The effects of smoking on drug metabolism and pharmacokinetics: A case study of clozapine.
  • Leveraging the role of pharmacists in preventing and managing opioid use disorder.
  • The impact of the opioid epidemic on public health in a developing country.
  • The use of biosimilars in the management of the skin condition psoriasis.
  • The effects of the Affordable Care Act on medication utilisation and patient outcomes in African Americans.

 

Public Health

Public health focuses on improving population health outcomes by addressing systemic factors, environmental impacts, and social determinants of health. These research topics explore critical challenges, interventions, and policies aimed at promoting health equity and resilience:

  • The impact of the built environment and urbanisation on physical activity and obesity.
  • The effects of food insecurity on health outcomes in Zimbabwe.
  • The role of community-based participatory research in addressing health disparities.
  • The impact of social determinants of health, such as racism, on population health.
  • The effects of heat waves on public health.
  • The role of telehealth in addressing healthcare access and equity in South America.
  • The impact of gun violence on public health in South Africa.
  • The effects of chlorofluorocarbons air pollution on respiratory health.
  • The role of public health interventions in reducing health disparities in the USA.
  • The impact of the United States Affordable Care Act on access to healthcare and health outcomes.
  • The effects of water insecurity on health outcomes in the Middle East.
  • The role of community health workers in addressing healthcare access and equity in low-income countries.
  • The impact of mass incarceration on public health and behavioural health of a community.
  • The effects of floods on public health and healthcare systems.
  • The role of social media in public health communication and behaviour change in adolescents.

 

I didn’t know if I was good enough.

See how Kelsee went from lost and confused to conquering her PhD.


Examples: Healthcare Dissertation & Theses

While the ideas we’ve presented above are a decent starting point for finding a healthcare-related research topic, they are fairly generic and non-specific. So, it helps to look at actual dissertations and theses to see how this all comes together.

Below, we’ve included a selection of research projects from various healthcare-related degree programs to help refine your thinking. These are actual dissertations and theses, written as part of Master’s and PhD-level programs, so they can provide some useful insight as to what a research topic looks like in practice.

  • Improving Follow-Up Care for Homeless Populations in North County San Diego (Sanchez, 2021)
  • On the Incentives of Medicare’s Hospital Reimbursement and an Examination of Exchangeability (Elzinga, 2016)
  • Managing the healthcare crisis: the career narratives of nurses (Krueger, 2021)
  • Methods for preventing central line-associated bloodstream infection in pediatric haematology-oncology patients: A systematic literature review (Balkan, 2020)
  • Farms in Healthcare: Enhancing Knowledge, Sharing, and Collaboration (Garramone, 2019)
  • When machine learning meets healthcare: towards knowledge incorporation in multimodal healthcare analytics (Yuan, 2020)
  • Integrated behavioural healthcare: The future of rural mental health (Fox, 2019)
  • Healthcare service use patterns among autistic adults: A systematic review with narrative synthesis (Gilmore, 2021)
  • Mindfulness-Based Interventions: Combatting Burnout and Compassionate Fatigue among Mental Health Caregivers (Lundquist, 2022)
  • Transgender and gender-diverse people’s perceptions of gender-inclusive healthcare access and associated hope for the future (Wille, 2021)
  • Efficient Neural Network Synthesis and Its Application in Smart Healthcare (Hassantabar, 2022)
  • The Experience of Female Veterans and Health-Seeking Behaviors (Switzer, 2022)
  • Machine learning applications towards risk prediction and cost forecasting in healthcare (Singh, 2022)
  • Does Variation in the Nursing Home Inspection Process Explain Disparity in Regulatory Outcomes? (Fox, 2020)

As you can see, these research topics are a lot more focused than the generic topic ideas we presented earlier. So, in order for you to develop a high-quality research topic, you’ll need to get specific and laser-focused on a specific context with specific variables of interest.  To learn more about this, check out our Free Research Topic Bootcamp.

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30 Comments

  1. Mabel Allison

    I need topics that will match the Msc program am running in healthcare research please

    Reply
    • Theophilus Ugochuku

      Hello Mabel,

      I can help you with a good topic, kindly provide your email let’s have a good discussion on this.

      Reply
      • alex

        yes

        Reply
  2. sneha ramu

    Can you provide some research topics and ideas on Immunology?

    Reply
  3. Julia

    Thank you to create new knowledge on research problem verse research topic

    Reply
  4. Julia

    Help on problem statement on teen pregnancy

    Reply
      • JACQUELINE CAGURANGAN RUMA

        can you give me research titles that i can conduct as a school nurse

        Reply
        • Amab

          Can you provide me with research topics in public health (health promotion) masters program

          Reply
  5. vera akinyi akinyi vera

    can you provide me with a research topic on healthcare related topics to a qqi level 5 student

    Reply
    • ALMUKTAR

      The role of community health workers in addressing healthcare access and equity in low-income countries
      The impact of mass incarceration on public health and behavioural health of a community

      Reply
  6. Didjatou tao

    Please can someone help me with research topics in public health ?

    Reply
  7. Gurtej singh Dhillon

    Hello
    I have requirement of Health related latest research issue/topics for my social media speeches.
    If possible pls share health issues , diagnosis, treatment.

    .

    Reply
    • Teresa dibondo

      A reserch topics in health but specifically health records as a course

      Reply
  8. Chikalamba Muzyamba

    I would like a topic thought around first-line support for Gender-Based Violence for survivors or one related to prevention of Gender-Based Violence

    Reply
  9. Evans Amihere

    Please can I be helped with a master’s research topic in either chemical pathology or hematology or immunology? thanks

    Reply
  10. Patrick

    Can u please provide me with a research topic on occupational health and safety at the health sector

    Reply
  11. Biyama Chama Reuben

    Good day kindly help provide me with Ph.D. Public health topics on Reproductive and Maternal Health, interventional studies on Health Education

    Reply
  12. dominic muema

    may you assist me with a good easy healthcare administration study topic

    Reply
    • Blessing Olajide

      Hi, I would appreciate if I’m assisted with resarch topic on public health especially in the area of neonatal mortality and disease

      Reply
  13. Precious

    May you assist me in finding a research topic on nutrition,physical activity and obesity. On the impact on children

    Reply
    • Ernestina

      Research topics related to health

      Reply
  14. Isaac D Olorunisola

    I have been racking my brain for a while on what topic will be suitable for my PhD in health informatics.
    I want a qualitative topic as this is my strong area.

    Reply
    • Blessing

      I would really appreciate if I can be assisted with research topic on public health and epidemiology for my MSc

      Reply
  15. LEBOGANG

    Hi, may I please be assisted with research topics in the medical laboratory sciences

    Reply
    • Winnie Musanga

      Research topics

      Reply
  16. FELICIA ADERONKE

    How do i frame a qualitative topic that will be suitable for the use of calibrated drape among midwifes.
    this is a thesis for my master programme in midwifery education.

    Reply
  17. Winnie Musanga

    Research topics on health by health records and information technology students

    Reply
  18. AYUBA YAKUBU

    I NEED A COMPLETED PROJECT “INCIDENTS OF TUBERCULOSIS AMONG CIGARETTES SMOKERS’

    Reply
  19. WAHEED ABIODUN OYELAMI

    Good day, I need research topics on any aspect of marketing for my PhD study

    Reply

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