Get ready for another thought-provoking episode of Pediatric Meltdown, the podcast that explores the untold stories and groundbreaking developments in pediatrics. Host Dr. Lia Gaggino sits down with Dr. Wendy Hunter, a remarkable pediatrician who has revolutionized the way pediatric care is delivered. Reflecting on Wendy’s inspiring journey, we are reminded of the profound impact that social determinants of health have on pediatric patients’ lives. As healthcare professionals, it is our duty to not only treat their physical symptoms but also understand their unique experiences and address the underlying issues. By incorporating trauma screening and fostering community partnerships, we can create a healthcare system that truly supports the holistic well-being of our patients. Let Dr. Hunter’s story be a call to action for all of us to champion, change and prioritize the social determinants of health in our own practices. Let us all be inspired to make a difference in our own professions, and remember that even amidst the chaos, there is incredible power in staying true to our passions and values.
[00:33 -17:40] Community Outreach Programs on Trauma Awareness
- Community-based organizations as partners in spreading health literacy and trauma information.
- Bringing pediatricians to low-income housing communities, homeless shelters, and maternity shelters.
- Using interactive sessions with families to discuss health topics and model reading practices.
- Breaking down communication barriers and fostering trust by engaging with families in their own communities.
[17:41- 26:51] Training and Preparation for Asking ACEs Questions
- Presentation on ACEs and specific scripting for introducing and discussing the screener
- Utilization of Epic EMR with smart phrase scripting for easy reference during conversations
- Orientation and training for office staff by the training staff
- Front office trained on patient self-administered ACEs questionnaire on tablets or mobile devices
[26:52 -37:45] Workflow Process for Screening a Four-Year-Old
- Introduce the pearls questionnaire as part of the routine well visits for children at the appropriate age.
- Ensure the questionnaire is integrated into the EMR system to streamline the process.
- Provide a comfortable and confidential environment for the family to fill out the questionnaire.
- Use identified scores to facilitate a discussion with the family, providing appropriate guidance and support.
[37:46 – 45:34] Managing Wellness and Work-Life Balance
- Importance of having a basic level of competence in mental health for everyone
- Grant opportunities for physicians to receive training in managing ADHD, anxiety, and depression
- The Pediatrician Next Door podcast as a platform to educate and entertain families and pediatricians
- Personal values and rituals as a guide for managing well-being and making decisions
[45:35 – 50:59] Closing segment Takeaway
You can reach Dr. Wendy Hunter
Website: www.drwendyhunter.com
Facebook: Dr. Wendy Hunter | Facebook
Instagram the_pediatrician_next_door
Twitter: @wendyhuntermd
Youtube: @WendyHunterMD
Links to Resources Mentioned on the Show
PEARLS ACE screener: https://www.acesaware.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/PEARLS-Tool-Child-Parent-Caregiver-Report-De-Identified-English.pdf
Health Stars Program: (page 6). https://www.rchsd.org/documents/2019/11/community-health-needs-implementation-strategy.pdf/
AAP CATCH Grants: https://www.aap.org/en/advocacy/community-health-and-advocacy/community-access-to-child-health/catch-planning-implementation-and-residentgrants/
The Pediatrician Next Door Podcast:
Other episodes you may like:
For all episodes, go to Pediatric Meltdown
Ep. 138 Aggression In Youth: Assessment and Treatment
Ep. 146 Racism, Medicine, and Transformation: Eliminating Health Disparities and Systemic Inequities
Key quotes for Twitter:
“It made me want to be a doctor even more, you know, I would daydream about talking to patients, and I sort of understood where they were coming from.”… Dr. Wendy Hunter on the journey to becoming a doctor
“Our community outreach program, Health Stars, breaks down barriers and allows families to open up and share their experiences.”… Dr. Wendy Hunter on the program she helped develop
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