A boutique health care consultancy breaking down barriers for fair access to care and innovation
Global Research. Strategic Innovation. Advancing Health Equity
CROSS Global Research & Strategy, founded by Dr. Shakira J. Grant, bridges research, policy, and innovation to address health equity, AI governance, and the social and economic forces shaping communities worldwide. We collaborate with governments, organizations, and businesses to develop evidence-based strategies that drive systemic change—ensuring equitable access, sustainable development, and ethical innovation.
Our Vision
We envision a world where health equity is a reality for all, ensuring communities—regardless of socioeconomic status—have access to quality health care and opportunities to thrive. CROSS Global Research & Strategy bridges research, policy, and innovation to address health disparities, AI governance, and the social and economic forces shaping global well-being. Through evidence-based strategies and cross-sector partnerships, we drive systemic change for healthier, more resilient communities worldwide.
CEO and Founder
I am a United States board-certified physician in Internal Medicine, Geriatric Medicine, Hematology, and Oncology, with nearly 20 years of clinical experience providing direct patient care across the United States and the Caribbean. My firsthand experience treating patients in diverse health care settings has given me a deep understanding of the social and economic factors that shape health outcomes—including financial barriers, transportation challenges, medical mistrust, and disparities in health care access. As a researcher, policy advisor, and international speaker, I lead interdisciplinary teams to develop data-driven solutions that address these systemic challenges and drive meaningful change in health care delivery.
At CROSS Global Research & Strategy, I help governments, businesses, and community organizations bridge research, policy, and innovation to develop equitable health care models and long-term solutions. Through strategic consulting, stakeholder engagement, and evidence-based research, CROSS delivers actionable insights that improve health care access, economic sustainability, and community resilience.
Our Services
1. Health Policy & Strategy Consulting 2. Qualitative & Quantitative Research
3. Intervention Development & Implementation 4. Stakeholder Engagement & Capacity Building 5. Emerging Threats to Health & Health Care Access
Service Details
Leverage expert insights in health policy analysis, mixed-methods research, and strategic intervention planning. Our approach includes in-depth qualitative methods such as interviews, focus groups, Photovoice, and spatial storytelling using ArcGIS StoryMaps, ensuring solutions are rooted in real-world challenges and community perspectives.
Consulting Expertise
CROSS provides specialized expertise in health equity, AI governance, and systemic health care challenges. Our work includes policy design, program development, implementation and evaluation, stakeholder engagement, and capacity-building workshops to equip organizations with the tools needed to translate research into action.
Innovative Solutions
We drive data-informed, evidence-based strategies that address social determinants of health, AI ethics in medicine, and climate-related health risks. By integrating digital storytelling, policy analysis, and community engagement, we develop sustainable, high-impact interventions that improve access, equity, and resilience in health systems worldwide.
What We Do in Action
At CROSS Global Research & Strategy, we work with clients at every stage—from educational foundation building (lectures, seminars, and workshops) to full-scale research and intervention development. Our expertise lies in addressing the social and economic drivers of health that limit access to care, including:
-
Financial Barriers – Ability to pay for health care services, insurance coverage gaps, and cost-related access issues.
-
Transportation Challenges – Geographic access limitations and mobility restrictions that prevent timely care.
-
Medical Mistrust – Historical and systemic factors affecting confidence in health care systems.
-
Social Support & Infrastructure – The role of community networks, caregiver availability, and resource accessibility in health outcomes.
-
Emerging threats to Health and Health Care Access–Examining risks such as climate-related disasters and the impact of artificial intelligence on health systems and equity.
We leverage research, strategy, and stakeholder engagement to develop evidence-based solutions that drive systemic change and long-term health equity.
Why Choose Us
A Trusted Partner in Research, Policy, and Innovation
We provide data-driven insights and strategic expertise to address the social and economic factors impacting health care access. Through research, policy analysis, and stakeholder collaboration, we develop sustainable, evidence-based solutions that drive health equity and economic resilience.
Bridging Medicine & Policy
Founded by Dr. Shakira J. Grant, a board-certified physician and research leader, CROSS integrates nearly 20 years of clinical expertise with policy analysis and AI research, providing unique solutions for health care, economic sustainability, and AI governance.
Unparalleled Research & Data-Driven Approach
We rely on quantitative and qualitative research, leveraging data to inform policy development and strategic decision-making for real-world impact.
Thought Leadership & Policy Impact
As a global speaker and policy advisor, Dr. Grant has also led interdisciplinary teams, advised policymakers, and developed frameworks that drive AI ethics, health care transformation, and economic resilience.
Global Perspective, Local Implementation
With experience spanning the U.S., the Caribbean, and international policy landscapes, CROSS develops strategies that address both broad policy challenges and region-specific needs.
A Commitment to Ethical, Sustainable Solutions
CROSS prioritizes equity, accessibility, and ethical AI implementation, ensuring long-term, scalable solutions that benefit communities, businesses, and policymakers alike.
Strategic Collaboration for Maximum Impact
We work with governments, research institutions, and business leaders to co-create policies and strategies that are inclusive, actionable, and sustainable
Our Impact
At CROSS Global Research & Strategy, our work extends beyond consulting—we lead discussions, influence policy, and drive meaningful change through research, collaboration, and global engagement.
🎤 Speaking Engagements
Dr. Grant has been invited to speak at leading national and international conferences, sharing expertise on health equity, oncology research, and health care innovation.
✅ Recent Engagements (Past 3 Years):
-
47th Minority Health Conference – University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill (2025)
-
Multiple Myeloma Research Foundation Health Equity Summit (2024)
-
Society of Oncologic Hematology – Rome, Italy (2023)
-
American Society of Hematology (ASH) Annual Meeting (2023, 2022)
-
American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) Annual Meeting (2022)
📰 Media Features & Thought Leadership
Dr. Grant’s expertise has been featured in leading health care and oncology platforms, shaping conversations in research, patient advocacy, and policy innovation.
✅ Select Features:
-
ASH Clinical News
-
HealthTree for Multiple Myeloma
-
The Patient Story
-
Oncology Data Advisors
-
Healio HemOnc Today
-
Cancer.Net
🔬 Leadership & Advisory Roles
Dr. Grant leads initiatives in research, policy, and oncology, driving impact through strategic leadership and advocacy.
✅ Key Roles:
-
Founder & Director, GrantLab – Advancing cancer health disparities research
-
Guest Editor, BMC Cancer – Special series on racial and ethnic disparities
-
Advisory Roles:
-
Leukemia & Lymphoma Society (Myeloma Link Program)
-
American Society of Hematology
-
Multiple Myeloma Research Foundation
-
Meet Dr. Shakira J. Grant
Results-Driven. People-Centered. Future-Focused
Dr. Shakira J. Grant is a board-certified physician, researcher, and global consultant with a passion for health equity, AI governance, and sustainable policy innovation. As the Founder & CEO of CROSS Global Research & Strategy, she applies nearly 20 years of clinical experience and policy expertise to help organizations, policymakers, and businesses develop research-driven, actionable solutions. But beyond her professional credentials, Dr. Grant is a leader who values collaboration, mentorship, and continuous growth.
Leadership Philosophy & Approach
Dr. Grant embraces a coaching and affiliative leadership style, fostering collaboration, trust, and innovation among teams. She believes that great leadership is about empowering others while maintaining a clear vision for success.
However, when necessary, she can leverage a pacesetting leadership approach, ensuring high-quality outcomes, attention to detail, and efficiency in meeting deadlines—a critical skill as an independent consultant working across research, policy, and strategic advisory roles.
💡 Guiding Principles:
✔ Integrity & Accountability – Delivering results with precision, credibility, and a commitment to excellence.
✔ Collaboration & Knowledge Sharing – Bringing together diverse voices, experts, and policymakers to create innovative, research-driven solutions.
✔ Resilience & Adaptability – Thriving in complex environments, navigating challenges with agility and foresight.
Beyond the Work: Passion for Travel & Cultural Exploration
Dr. Grant is not just a leader in research, health care, and policy—she is also a global explorer, language enthusiast, and cultural connector.
Her passion for traveling and discovering new cultures has taken her across the world, where she embraces opportunities to learn, grow, and connect with people from diverse backgrounds.
🌍 Current Cultural Exploration:
🇮🇹 Learning Italian – Driven by her love for Italy’s history, language, and community-driven approach to sustainability, she is actively studying Italian and immersing herself in the culture.
✈️ Passionate About Travel – Exploring new destinations, uncovering historical narratives, and experiencing cultural traditions firsthand.
Life Philosophy & Core Values
"If you don’t take the risk and experience a few jolts, you miss the opportunity to transform." – Michelle Obama, The Light We Carry
Dr. Grant believes that growth, leadership, and success come from taking risks, embracing challenges, and evolving through discomfort. Her life philosophy is built on the belief that real impact is created when we step outside our comfort zones and lean into transformation.
🌟 Core Values
At the heart of her leadership and approach to consulting are three core values:
✔ Authenticity – Leading with honesty, transparency, and a commitment to truth.
✔ Empathy – Understanding the needs, perspectives, and challenges of those she serves.
✔ Vulnerability – Embracing openness as a strength, fostering deeper connections and innovation.
"When we share our stories with fullness and honesty, we realize that we are less alone and more connected than we ever believed. We create new platforms for connection." – Michelle Obama, The Light We Carry
Dr. Grant believes that leadership is about fostering connection, building trust, and empowering teams through shared experiences and collective vision.
Client & Collaborator Impact Statement
At CROSS Global Research & Strategy, we believe in the power of collaboration and evidence-based solutions to drive meaningful change in health care, policy, and innovation. Our work has been shaped by years of partnerships with interdisciplinary teams, policymakers, research institutions, and community organizations to address the social and economic drivers of health care disparities.
While CROSS is a newly established entity, our expertise is built on a foundation of extensive experience leading research initiatives, advising on policy development, and co-developing strategic interventions. We look forward to showcasing insights, success stories, and testimonials from future clients as we continue to make an impact.
Stay Connected
