She studies how individual and organizational behaviors relate to quality and health outcomes, focusing on patient experiences, consumerism, and the relationships between patients, providers, and broader health care market factors. She is especially interested in the pursuit of patient-centered care and the transformation it requires for individuals and organizations. Her current work investigates whether particular physician-patient role relationships and patient preferences are associated with greater patient activation. Mittler earned her PhD in health policy and medical sociology from Harvard University in 2008, her master’s degree in health services administration and public policy from the University of Michigan in 1997, and a BS in urban studies from Cornell University in 1994.