Gretchen Maurer, DO

Dr. Gretchen Maurer’s clinical research endeavors focus on cannabis-based therapeutics for pain modulation with an evaluation of effectiveness, opioid sparing, and a synergistic approach with other modalities for a variety of diagnoses. During residency training, she pursued a graduate certificate in cannabis medicine from Thomas Jefferson University’s Institute for Emerging Health Professions to advance her understanding of the endocannabinoid system and approach to cannabis-based medicines. Further investigation in regards to the efficacy of cannabinoid therapy on outcomes such as depression, anxiety, insomnia, and overall quality of life with a focus on safety are assessed. Future efforts to evaluate cannabis medicine approach for harm reduction and outcomes for patients suffering from opioid use disorder. Dr. Maurer focuses on various constituents of the plant, including cannabinoids, terpenoids/terpenes, alkaloids, and flavonoids, with an interest in receptor interactions with the endocannabinoid system and other various pathways. A central part of her research is the acknowledgment and reflection on racial and ethnic discrimination regarding disparities in drug policy enforcement.

Dr. Gretchen Maurer is involved with the development of curricula to meet the needs of current and future family medicine residents. Her training approach involves a compassionate and equitable approach to patient-centered relationships grounded in empathy and understanding. The curriculum incorporates educational development of scholarly activities with a focus on various research methods and evidence-based approaches; population-based healthcare with on focus quality and outcomes; commitment to the advancement of addiction medicine and MAT; expanding knowledge of the impacts of social determinants of health; engagement in efforts of diversity, equity, and inclusion activities; advocating for social justice; and allyship for the LGBTQIA+ population with supportive gender diverse care.

Dr. Gretchen Maurer has an interest in encouraging engagement in preventative health using a needs-based approach to improve health outcomes for patients and the community with recognition of the impact of social determinants of health. Improving outcomes for wellness in the community involves the reduction of stigma and barriers to treatment for addiction, gender-diverse care, and pain. She also advocates for patient-centered reproductive healthcare. Dr. Maurer’s research interests in cannabis medicine influence an integrative approach to chronic pain management with a focus to promote quality of life and reduce harm.

Diplomat, American Board of Family Medicine, 2020

Diplomat, American Osteopathic Board of Family Physicians, 2020