This presentation delves into Project BENEFIT, a research initiative supported by the Patient-Centered Outcome Research Institute (PCORI), aiming to address the substantial gap in Healthcare Transition (HCT) research for individuals with Intellectual and/or Developmental Disabilities (IDD), particularly those belonging to racially/ethnically marginalized communities. The discussion underscores the disparities encountered by IDD communities and explores the intersection of IDD and Black, Indigenous, People of Color (BIPOC) in the context of HCT. Adopting a Community-Based Participatory Research (CBPR) approach, the project involves self-advocates, family members, healthcare professionals, and researchers, with a focus on fostering research partnerships, community education, cultural liaison roles, and the application of universal design principles for equitable and accessible outcomes. The presentation outlines key strategies, project learnings, and avenues for engagement with the Project BENEFIT team.

Learning Objectives:

• Understand the healthcare disparities and challenges faced by individuals with Intellectual and/or Developmental Disabilities (IDD), particularly those from racially/ethnically marginalized communities, during Healthcare Transition (HCT).
• Explore the Community-Based Participatory Research (CBPR) approach and its application in Project BENEFIT, emphasizing the involvement of self-advocates, family members, healthcare professionals, and researchers to address gaps in HCT research.
• Identify key strategies, including stakeholder advisory groups, community education, cultural liaisons, and universal design principles, employed by Project BENEFIT to develop research partnerships and enhance inclusivity in IDD and BIPOC communities.