Shu Phua

Shu Phua specializes in qualitative research and evaluation of public health programs and initiatives. Her interests and project work cover a range of topics, including social determinants of health, behavioral health, and addressing gaps in health.

Since joining Mathematica in 2022, Phua has contributed to a range of state, foundation, and federal projects focused on health policy, behavioral health, and public health systems transformation. In previous roles, she supported cross-state analyses of Section 1115 Substance Use Disorder Demonstrations, conducted a pandemic preparedness needs assessment for the Infectious Diseases Society of America, and supported qualitative data collection for the evaluation of California’s Children and Youth Behavioral Health Initiative. She also provided technical assistance to multisector coalitions through the Getting Further Faster Community of Practice and the Statewide Coordinating Center for California Healthy Eating and Active Living Coalitions projects, including webinar facilitation and resource development.

Currently, Phua works on the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation’s Transforming Public Health Data Systems project, where she supports a systems change evaluation and facilitates peer learning across grantees.

Phua has an M.P.H. with a concentration in health policy, law, and ethics from the University of Virginia’s School of Medicine. She also holds a B.A. in biology with a minor in psychology from the University of Virginia.