JOINUS FORTHE Awards Gala
The Ameswell Hotel 800 Moffett Boulevard, Mountain View, CA 94043
The Annual Awards Gala brings together Santa Clara County Medical Association’s leadership, members, supporters, advocates, and partners to introduce our new president, Fahd Khan, MD and to celebrate the accomplishments of our outgoing president, Gloria Wu, MD, as she takes on her new role of California Medical Association Board of Trustee for District VII. The Gala also honors those who are making a difference in medicine and made an impact to their community in 2024.
Join us to reconnect and see friends and colleagues at this annual event. Come to enjoy networking, dinner, and dancing!
TICKETS:
$90 before December 15
$110 after December 15
$720 for table of 8
Purchase tickets at SCCMA.org 10 January 6:00 PM
In this issue
SCCMA is a professional association representing over 4,500 physicians in all specialties, practice types, and stages of their careers. We support physicians like you through a variety of practice management resources, coding and reimbursement help, training, and up to the minute news that could affect your practice. The Bulletin is our quarterly publication.
Santa Clara County Medical Association
SCCMA OFFICERS
President | Gloria Wu, MD
President-elect | Fahd Rahman Khan, MD
Secretary | Randal Pham, MD
Treasurer | Shahram Gholami, MD
Immediate Past President | Anlin XU, MD
VP-Community Health | Santosh Pandipati, MD
VP-External Affairs | Christine Doyle, MD
VP-Member Services | Sam Wald, MD
VP-Professional Conduct | Lewis Osofsky, MD
SCCMA STAFF
CEO/Executive Director | Marc E. Chow, MS
Director of Membership & Programs | Angelica Cereno
Governance & Advocacy Associate | Emily Coren
Facilities & IT Manager | Andie Campanilla
Executive Assistant | Rashida Mirza
SCCMA COUNCILORS
El Camino Hospital of Los Gatos | Jaideep Iyengar, MD
El Camino Hospital – Mountain View | Carol A. Somersille, MD
Good Samaritan Hospital | CK Park, MD
Kaiser Foundation Hospital - San Jose | Veena Vanchinathan, MD
Kaiser Permanente Hospital - Santa Clara | OPEN
O’Connor Hospital | OPEN
Regional Medical Center | Raj Gupta, MD
Saint Louise Regional Hospital | Kevin Stuart, MD
Santa Clara Valley Medical Center | Patricia Salmon, MD
Stanford Health Care/Children’s Health | Karen Kim, MD
Managing Editor | Emily Coren
Production Editor | prime42 – Design | Market | Host
Opinions expressed by authors are their own, and not necessarily those of The Bulletin or SCCMA. The Bulletin reserves the right to edit all contributions for clarity and length, as well as to reject any material submitted in whole or in part. Acceptance of advertising in The Bulletin in no way constitutes approval or endorsement by SCCMA of products or services advertised. The Bulletin and SCCMA reserve the right to reject any advertising.
Address all editorial communication, reprint requests, and advertising to:
Emily Coren, Managing Editor
700 Empey Way
San Jose, CA 95128
408/998-8850
Fax: 408/289-1064
emily@sccma.org
A Message from the President
Gloria Wu, MD SCCMA President
This year, SCCMA has made significant strides in advancing Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) across our initiatives. I want to extend my gratitude to Dr. Donaldo Hernandez, Past President of the California Medical Association (CMA) and a long-standing member of the District VII delegation, for his dedication to DEI efforts at CMA. I also commend Dr. Tanya Spirtos, Immediate Past President of CMA, for her unwavering commitment to Proposition 35, a critical measure on the November 2024 ballot.
I am thrilled to share that Proposition 35 passed with 67.9% of the vote, securing critical funding for Medi-Cal. This measure will generate up to $5 billion annually, supporting payment reform and improving access to care for the 425,000 Medi-Cal recipients in Santa Clara County.
Thank you to our members for actively sharing information about Proposition 35 with patients, friends, and family. Your efforts were key to its success and advancing health equity in our communities.
Our commitment to DEI also took center stage during our three AI symposia this year, where we explored the intersection of technology and health equity:
• February Symposium: Dr. Brian Grady of the San Francisco Marin Medical Association presented on addressing disparities in prostate cancer care through AI and chatbot technology. A presentation from Keio University in Japan demonstrated how AI innovations could transform wheelchair users’ movements into expressive dance and art. Additionally, Dr. Santosh Pandipati, Chief Health Officer and co-founder of “Lov-u,” shared insights into how their maternal care app supports pregnant individuals through comprehensive care during this critical period.
• May Symposium: We examined the disproportionate prevalence of thyroid eye disease in female patients. While chatbots surveyed demonstrated the ability to diagnose symptoms, they often failed to convey the importance of early recognition of dry eye as a potential indicator of thyroid disease, highlighting gaps in AI
communication that require attention.
• September Symposium: A research poster compared prostate cancer outcomes between Asian Americans and Asians treated in the United States versus Asia. The findings revealed poorer outcomes in Asia, likely due to late-stage diagnoses, emphasizing the role AI can play in bridging disparities.
Beyond our symposia, this year was marked by strong member engagement. We hosted a soldout Wellness Retreat and a Family Movie Day in December, providing opportunities for relaxation and community. Members also participated in programs such as the Saving Private Practice, Book Club, and Environmental Webinar series, connecting and staying informed on key healthcare and environmental issues.These events, along with our member social at Meso Restaurant in June, highlight the strength and vibrancy of SCCMA’s membership. I am proud to share that these efforts contributed to SCCMA welcoming over 500 new members this year.
As we look ahead, I am confident that SCCMA will continue to lead with purpose and innovation. I extend my best wishes to Dr. Fahd Khan, our President-Elect, who will carry forward our mission to support our members and advocate for the health and well-being of Santa Clara County residents.
Thank you for your unwavering support and dedication.
ELECTION 2024
Your Trusted Partner in Practice Success
House of Delegates
The Santa Clara County Medical Association (SCCMA) attended the California Medical Association (CMA) 153rd House of Delegates (HOD) in Sacramento on October 2627, 2024. Physician delegates meet annually at HOD to establish broad policy on current major issues that have been determined to be important issues affecting physician members, the association, and the practice of medicine. 24 physician delegates from District VII attended to represent SCCMA. Read more on page 22.
On-Demand Webinar: Best Practices When Terminating Patient Relationships
In health care, ending a patient relationship is never a simple decision—and it is one that must be approached with empathy and a strong understanding of legal and ethical obligations. The California Medical Association and The Doctors Company recently cohosted a webinar to provide information and guidance on best practices when dismissing patients from a medical practice. The webinar covers reasons for dismissing a patient, and the importance of clear communication, documentation, and following proper protocols to protect both your practice and your patients. Watch on-demand webinar here: www. cmadocs.org/store/info/productcd/CMA24_1001_TDC/t/ webinar-patient-dismissal
Environmental Health Webinar Recordings Available
SCCMA’s Environmental Health Committee organized a webinar series throughout September and October. Esteemed speakers presented on topics including climate change, artificial turf, and environmental toxins. Recordings of the webinars can be found on www.sccma.org/ programs/environmental-health.aspx.
CMA Urges Passage of Legislation to Protect Medicare Seniors
H.R. 10073, also known as the Medicare Patient Access and Practice Stabilization Act of 2024, aims to stabilize physician practices and improve patient access to care. The bill would stop an impending 2.8% Medicare payment for physicians and provide a partial inflation update – 50% of the Medicare Economic Index (MEI) for one year – resulting in a total payment increase of 4.73% in 2025. While hospitals and skilled nursing facilities receive annual inflation adjustments to their Medicare payments, physicians do not causing Medicare physician payments to decline 29% since 2001. CMA urges the California Congressional Delegation to co-sponsor this vital legislation and calls for Congress to act swiftly in December to stem the tide of physician shortages and patient delays in accessing care. To read more, please visit: www.cmadocs.org/newsroom/ news/view/ArticleId/50732/CMA-urges-passage-of-legislation-to-protect-Medicare-seniors
Why California Needs Prop
35
Proposition 35 will secure dedicated funding to keep hospitals, clinics and doctors’ offices open; protect and expand access to care; invest in workforce training; and reduce wait times in emergency rooms and urgent care facilities. Prop 35 will secure dedicated funding – without raising taxes – to expand and protect access to health care for the millions of Californians who depend on Medi-Cal. Prop 35 secures dedicated resources to protect and expand patient access to care at community health clinics, hospitals, emergency rooms, primary care, family planning, mental health providers and specialty care providers like cancer, cardiology and OB/GYN. Prop 35 will also reduce emergency response times by funding paramedics and other first responders. For more information on Prop 35, please visit www.cmadocs.org/prop35. Vote Yes on Prop 35!
CALPAC Reports Record
Fundraising at 2024 House of Delegates
The CMA Political Action Committee (CALPAC) surpassed fundraising records in its history at HOD. Funds donated to CALPAC go directly to support its political advocacy efforts, which help turn policy decisions into advocacy success. For more information about CALPAC, please visit www.cmadocs.org/calpac.
Governor Signs All of CMA’s Priority Bills
Four of the California Medical Association’s priority bills made it to the Governor’s desk; all were signed:
Physician Mental Health: AB 2164 by Assemblymember Marc Berman
This new law prohibits requirements in physician licensure applications to disclose personal medical information that does not impact their ability to practice medicine, helping reduce the stigma around mental health support for physicians.
Artificial Intelligence in Health Care: SB 1120 by Senator Josh Becker
The “Physicians Make Decisions Act” will ensure that physician oversight and patient safety are core components for the use of artificial intelligence in health care. It requires that physicians make final decisions on what kind of treatments patients receive, not AI.
ER Violence: AB 977 by Assemblymember Freddie Rodriguez
Now, there will be parity in the penalty for violence committed against health care workers in emergency departments. Previously, assaults against health care workers inside an emergency department carried lesser penalties than assaults committed outside an emergency department.
Human Trafficking: SB 963 by Senator Angelique Ashby
Physicians and front-line health care workers are often the first to identify victims of domestic violence and human trafficking. This new law will support victims by providing new channels for patients to ask for help and get connected to assistance and resources.
Building Health Equity: Ensuring Care and Support for All in Santa Clara County
BY OTTO LEE County of Santa Clara Supervisor, District Three
This issue is deeply personal to me. I’ve witnessed loved ones in my own family struggle with mental health challenges and substance abuse. Tragically, I lost a cousin who turned to drugs in an attempt to cope with his pain. As a veteran, I’ve also seen too many fellow servicemembers suffer similarly. These experiences, along with the heartbreaking stories from families of local residents we have lost, have given me a profound understanding of the struggles individuals and their loved ones endure.
At the County of Santa Clara, we lead the way in advancing healthcare access and equity across the state. As the County Supervisor for District 3, I proudly represent Sunnyvale, Milpitas,
and North San Jose. Health and social services are central to our work, and we are working on initiatives in behavioral health, veterans services, and environmental health to support residents. We are expanding access to essential resources for those struggling with mental health, substance abuse, and other health needs that are life-changing and lifesaving.
Otto Lee, County of Santa Clara Supervisor, District Three
Our Obligation
Simply put, it is the county’s responsibility to ensure that residents and their loved ones have access to the pathways and resources they need, to seek and receive the care they deserve. This is a multi-layered effort. To address health disparities, we must ensure culturally competent and accessible care to all residents, especially sensitive services like mental health and substance abuse. It is difficult enough to get individuals to seek care, especially with cultural stigmas that limit one’s ability to get help. It’s okay to ask for help and encourage others to ask for help, especially with mental illness and substance abuse. It’s okay to not be okay.
What the County is doing
Since taking office, I have advocated for mental health and substance abuse services. The COVID-19 pandemic worsened emotional and behavioral health across our community. In January 2022, the Board of Supervisors unanimously approved our joint referral with Supervisor Ellenberg to declare mental health and substance abuse as a public health crisis, leading to expanded facilities, beds, and treatment programs that are saving lives.1
Using July 1, 2022 as the baseline measure of progress, the Board of Supervisors, the Behavioral Health Services Department (BHSD), other county departments and partners have worked to expand access to behavioral health services.2 Here are some recent numbers on facility expansion since that date:
• 53 acute behavioral health beds added, with 77 more pending and a total goal of 130 beds.2
• 49 subacute behavioral health beds added, with 75 more pending and a total goal of 182 beds.2
• 69 mental health community residential beds added, with 13 more pending and a total goal of 133 beds.2
• 23 substance use residential treatment beds added, with 62 more pending and a total goal of 85 beds.2
To track progress in expanding substance use treatment services (SUTS), BHSD set two ambitious goals in May of 2024; by 2030, lead the state in performance metrics by doubling the number of individuals receiving SUTS annually (1) and expand prevention activities to reduce community substance use (2).2 Additionally, we want to:
• Increase access to medications for addiction treatment (MAT).2
• Launch the COMPASSionate Addiction Services & Support (COMPASS) Clinic in 2025.2
• Increase treatment beds, including for social detoxification and residential treatment.2
• Improve and increase access to treatment services for youth and adolescents, for people who are unhoused, and/or for people within the justice and reentry systems.2
• Implement SUTS-related state initiatives with California Advancing and Innovating Medi-Cal (CalAIM).2
• Implement best practices to increase awareness of the risks of alcohol, cannabis, methamphetamines, and opioids such as fentanyl.2
• Increase substance use prevention and harm reduction.2
A major success in saving lives has been increasing availability of naloxone, an opioid overdose reversal medication.3 It is commonly known as Narcan, a naloxone brand, in the com-
munity.4 We have installed naloxone kit vending machines in schools, courts, jails, and libraries across the county. Kits can be ordered through ODFreeSCC.org, by email at SCCOOPP@ hhs.sccgov.org, or by phone at (408) 2726055.5
Community Partnerships
A significant community-driven success has been our Trusted Response Urgent Support Team (TRUST) program. TRUST is a community service that assists Santa Clara County residents during urgent mental health or substance use crises, reducing the need for police intervention. Due to its importance to the community, the county has expanded TRUST to the West Valley and is in the process of developing a TRUST direct phone line. From March 2024 through August 2024, TRUST received 2,157 calls, with 58% resulting in a field visit, and an average field response time of 31 minutes.2
The 9-8-8 Suicide/Crisis Hotline, launched in July 2022, connects individuals in crisis to immediate support, ensuring residents access to vital mental health resources. In its first year, 9-8-8 received 20,980 calls and remains a crucial lifeline saving lives everyday. It is important to note that beyond providing immediate services, these dedicated lines also gather critical data, allowing us to identify where and when residents are most in need. This data helps us close gaps in care and advance health equity across the community.
These partnerships extend to institutions serving our children. BHSD launched the County Wellness Center Grant Program to create and enhance new school-based behavioral health centers. Grants were awarded to 37 schools, including charter schools, across 10 districts and the Santa Clara County Office of Education.
Serving those who serve our Country
We have more than 60,000 veterans in Santa Clara County, and improving their health and well-being is another important layer in improving health equity. As a retired Navy veteran, it has been a priority to recognize and support the complex needs of our fellow veterans.
In September 2023, the Board of Supervisors unanimously approved the acquisition of a veterans housing facility in East San José. This expansion will provide housing opportunities for approximately 150 veterans and strengthen connections with the United States Department of Veterans Affairs and various county departments to ensure veterans receive the health and social services they have earned and deserve.
To address growing needs, we expanded staffing at the County’s Office of Veterans Services (VSO) through a joint referral
Narcan vending machine
with Supervisor Simitian. In 2023, the VSO served 9,364 veterans, a 46% increase from 2022, and helped our veterans receive nearly $17 million in federal benefits that are reinvested into the community. So far in 2024, they have served 6,195 veterans who are receiving $18 million in federal benefits. The VSO also maintained over 29,000 veteran contacts in 2023 and 22,000 veteran contacts in 2024. Additionally, our county hosted two recent Stand Down events and supported over 2,000 veterans with claims support, employment, housing, education, medical, legal, and social services.
A major success for veterans has been the launch of a mobile dental service program in late 2023, addressing urgent dental needs. Partnering with Mobile Dental, the VSO began offering free dental care at the 2024 Stand Down event, serving 153 veterans with over 100 scheduled for follow-ups.
Health Equity - Beyond Access to Care
Santa Clara County has a shortage of playing fields. This impacts the mental and physical well-being of all of our residents, particularly those in low-income communities. While some propose installing artificial turf fields as a solution, we must be mindful of the broader health impacts. Artificial solutions can worsen health outcomes and perpetuate environmental injustices through reduced green space, higher pollution, and the heat island effect. Our solutions should promote equity and foster healthier environments for all.
Artificial turf removes green space, contributes to climate change, and contains per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) and various other chemicals that can contaminate our water or be inhaled or ingested by humans.6 Plastic turf also traps and retains heat, exacerbating the heat island effect,7 which is particularly impactful in communities already facing increased heat
from lack of green space and dense concentrations of buildings and pavement.8
Research has demonstrated that access to green space may help to improve mental health by reducing anxiety, depression, and stress, especially among children.6
For these reasons, I introduced a referral in April 2024 to request options for an ordinance to prohibit new installation of plastic artificial turf on county-owned land. Research and available information have been growing on potential health risks of microplastics, PFAS, and other chemicals in artificial turf, as well as the heat risks. To protect the health of our whole county and prevent further contributions to the environmental injustices and health disparities faced by low-income communities, I am hoping the Board will adopt an ordinance in January 2025. As leaders, we must work to protect both the physical and mental health of our community members to the greatest extent possible.
In Closing
Thank you for being part of our county wide effort to improve health and equity of care. Start by assessing your own needs and encouraging those around you to seek help when needed. You can also contribute by advocating for mental health access and equity. Your voice matters in ensuring everyone receives the care they deserve. Together, we can create a more equitable society where everyone has the chance to live a healthy, fulfilling life.
References
1. https://sccgov.iqm2.com/Citizens/Detail_LegiFile.aspx?Frame=&MeetingID=13790&MediaPosition=&ID=109038&CssClass=
2. https://sccgov.iqm2.com/Citizens/FileOpen.aspx?Type=4&ID=252143
3. https://nida.nih.gov/publications/drugfacts/naloxone
4. https://narcan.com/en/
5. https://bhsd.santaclaracounty.gov/get-prevention-services/ substance-use-prevention-services/about-narcan/narcan-order-form
6. https://dtsc.ca.gov/wp-content/uploads/sites/31/2024/07/ Background-Document-on-Candidate-Chemicals-in-Artificial-Turf.pdf
7. https://www.epa.gov/heatislands
8. https://wseas.com/journals/ead/2024/a405115-007(2024). pdf
ANN M LOEFFLER, MD
TB Controller & Assistant Health Officer
County of Santa Clara, CA
Tuberculosis (TB) has always disproportionately affected people with limited access to healthcare. In the United States, health inequities are increasingly apparent among individuals with TB, resulting in delays in TB diagnosis, concentration of cases in low-income areas, and high rates of predisposing conditions such as diabetes, malnutrition, renal failure and tobacco use. In order to effectively address TB in the US, we need to rapidly identify and treat both TB disease (the active form of TB, often symptomatic and contagious) AND latent TB infection (the dormant phase, characterized by a normal chest radiograph and no TB symptoms).
Patients born outside the U.S. and/or belonging to specific racial or ethnic populations are much more likely to be diagnosed with TB. In the US in 2023, 90% of TB patients were among Asian, Black or African American or Hispanic or Latino persons. The TB incidence rate in was 19 times higher in peo-
ple born outside the US compared to those born in the US. Asian individuals born outside the US are diagnosed with TB at a rate 13 times higher than US-born Asian individuals and 75 times higher than US-born white individuals. This disparity exceeds those seen in HIV, heart disease, and diabetes (1, 2). The same trends are seen in Santa Clara County. In 2023, 95% of Santa Clara County TB cases were born outside United States, with Vietnam and the Philippines contributing almost half of our cases. (3)
Communication is key
TB is a highly stigmatized diagnosis. Fear of discrimination, fear of association with other health conditions like HIV, and fear of loss of income during isolation keep people from seeking TB care, identifying their contacts and even adhering to therapy. Lack of health knowl-
and TB stigma amplify health disparities in people at risk for TB. People who come from places where TB is common may also be more likely to distrust public health and health care institutions. They may believe that the BCG TB vaccine offers more protection than it does. They may not understand the reliability of the current IGRA blood tests for TB. Some people associate TB with poverty, lack of education and don’t know that TB is preventable and treatable in the early phases. They might fear that a TB diagnosis will impact their immigration status. TB patients face ostracization due to fear of contagion. These factors fuel people’s reluctance to accept screening and treatment or disclose their family and friend’s names to public health for evaluation after TB exposure.
Messaging about TB from trusted local sources is often more impactful than messaging from the health establishment. Community leaders, faith-based organizations, culturally specific social media, community health nurses and health promoters may be more successful at addressing stigma and promoting acceptance of TB screening.
Over the last 5 years, the Centers for Disease and Prevention (CDC) has investigated TB perceptions and developed educational materials which addresses TB stigma and misperceptions. The “Think, Test, Treat” TB campaign (4) interviewed scores of community members at risk for TB. They identified messaging that should be avoided because it was discriminatory and stigmatizing. In turn, well-received educational tools were developed that increased the likelihood that people would engage with their providers about TB information and testing.
An ounce of prevention
Better communication and education are only part of the solution. Immigrants suffer health disparities in part due to risk of being uninsured, having lower health literacy and language barriers. Many individuals at risk for TB also have a disproportionate number of health conditions that increase their susceptibility to TB. For example, in Santa Clara County 35% of TB patients have diabetes. Poorly controlled diabetes amplifies risk of TB disease and makes successful treatment of TB even harder. Other contributing factors include smoking, renal failure, cancer, HIV, malnutrition, immunocompromising treatments, and drug use (5,6).
The pattern of TB in the US has shifted over the past twenty years. Most patients have been infected for years, if not decades. Over 70% of TB cases in Santa Clara County have been in United States more than 10 years (3). These individuals have been living with latent TB infection for many years and, ideal-
ly, could be treated before progression to TB disease. Treatment of LTBI has become an important part of the California Department of Public Health Tuberculosis Elimination Plan 2021-2025 (7). The plan “presents bold TB elimination targets, including, by 2025, to: reduce the annual number of TB cases by 30% to 1,500; reduce TB disparities among non-U.S.-born Californians by 25%; and reduce annual TB deaths also by 25%, to 150.” Among other strategies, the plan focuses on engaging populations at risk and their providers and ensuring implementation of effective strategies for LTBI testing and treatment. The CDC TB 2022 - 2026 Strategic Plan (8) also has ambitious goals to address TB inequities. It will take a concerted effort from everyone involved at all levels to reduce the incidence of infections, lower morbidity and mortality, reduce health disparities, and promote health equity.
Unfortunately, the COVID pandemic interrupted these lofty goals, but the strategies are still valid. In collaboration with public health colleagues, North East Medical Services (NEMS), a group of federally funded Bay Area community health centers which serve a predominantly Asian non-US born population, recognized the need for improved TB screening. They gathered a group of clinic staff and over a 10-year period, launched a series of unfunded, clinic-led interventions to reduce barriers to latent TB infection care. They report there “a significant increase in the proportion of patients receiving LTBI testing for both adults (6% to 47%, p < 0.001) and children (23% to 80%, p < 0.001).” (9) Interestingly, patients age > 65 years of age were less likely accept LTBI testing and treatment, suggesting that primary care settings may need to focus interventions when patients are younger.
We know that clinics and providers are underfunded and short on time. Treating TB infection before the onset of the disease is a cost-effective way to benefit both the individual and the community. Ideally, patients coming from an area of the world with high rates of TB or health conditions that predispose to the disease would be screened for risk factors and treated before becoming ill. The United States Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) recommends this type of screening (10). While there are an increasing number of screening programs, more resources are needed.
If your practice is not ready for an extensive intervention, there are small-scale actions you can undertake that can make a difference for our local communities at risk for TB. Preventing and controlling diabetes can significantly decrease the development of TB. Strong primary care improves nutrition, decreases smoking rates, detects cancer earlier, prevents renal failure through hypertension and diabetes management, etc. When patients don’t engage with consistent primary care and preventive healthcare, their risk of of experiencing poor outcomes increases and disproportionately affects the same communities that have a greater risk for TB.
A new California law coming into effect in 2025 will require primary care settings to offer TB screening by questionnaire with the intention of promoting better outcomes, as has occurred with Hepatitis B & C screening laws. It will be accompanied by increased educational resources and will encourage third party payors to recognize the benefit and return on investment of LTBI testing and treatment. The law does not punish healthcare entities who are not yet able to completely fulfill these national guidelines. As you consider whether you are
ready to expand LTBI risk screening, review the materials at Think. Test. Treat TB | CDC. This will give you tools and ideas for starting conversations with your patients at risk. Content is available in many other languages so that most of your patients can receive the information in their native language. Reach out to the Santa Clara County TB Prevention and Control Program if you have ideas for better ways to reach community leaders or are ready to get more information about how to implement a TB screening program in your practice.
References
1. https://www.cdc.gov/tb/statistics/reports/2022/demographics.htm
2. https://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/volumes/73/wr/mm7312a4. htm?s_cid=mm7312a4_w
3. https://publichealth.santaclaracounty.gov/health-information/health-data/disease-data/tuberculosis-santa-clara-county
4. www.cdc.gov/think-test-treat-tb/index.html
5. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6044656/
6. www.cdc.gov/tb/risk-factors/index.html
7. www.cdph.ca.gov/Programs/CID/DCDC/CDPH%20Document%20Library/TBCB-TB-Elimination-Plan-2021-2025.pdf
8. www.cdc.gov/nchhstp/priorities/tuberculosis-elimination. html
9. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9847435/#Sec10
10. www.uspreventiveservicestaskforce.org/uspstf/recommendation/latent-tuberculosis-infection-screening
We organize and mobilize the California health community to advocate for equitable
Who Can Join: Anyone who works in health! We welcome those involved in public health, clinical care services, community healing, health administration, health research, and development of healthcare products - including trainees, students, and those who have retired from these fields.
What We Do:
Education: Most of us didn’t learn about climate change and health in our training. We offer practical education in topics related to community organizing, climate health and equity impacts, and advocacy skills.
Trainings and Coaching:
CHN Speaks: Interested in talking to health colleagues about climate, health, and equity? Our CHN Speaks team offers personalized coaching so that anyone can give a climate-related talk to health colleagues.
Healthcare Sustainability Fellowship: We support members in a year-long fellowship to design and execute a healthcare sustainability project.
Action: We use the power of our collective health voice, in partnership with broad coalitions, to urge California policymakers towards climate action.
our
County of Santa Clara Public Health Department’s Diabetes Prevention & Wellness Program
Our History The Diabetes Prevention Initiative
The Diabetes Prevention Initiative (DPI) Collaborative was established in 2015 by the Public Health Department (PHD) in response to a referral from the County of Santa Clara Board of Supervisors (BOS). This initiative was created to address the alarming rise in type 2 diabetes within the community, which has placed significant pressure on our health systems. The BOS recognized the urgency of this public health issue and tasked the PHD with developing prevention strategies to reduce the prevalence of type 2 diabetes.
The DPI Collaborative engaged a broad spectrum of stakeholders, including community partners, health plans, academic institutions, and healthcare professionals. Together, they created the 2016-2019 DPI Strategic Plan, which focused on raising awareness about prediabetes, increasing screening rates, and advocating for insurance coverage of the Diabetes Prevention Program (DPP).1 The DPP is a CDC-established lifestyle change program designed to prevent or delay the onset of type 2 diabetes through evidence-based interventions.1 The DPI’s success marked a significant step forward in community health, particularly in promoting screening and preventive care.
Expanding Focus During COVID-19
In 2020, the COVID-19 pandemic shifted the focus of the DPI Collaborative. With the virus disproportionately affecting individuals with diabetes and related conditions, the Collaborative expanded its work to address broader wellness factors, such as poor nutrition, sedentary lifestyles, inadequate sleep, and stress. The new direction prioritized promoting overall wellness alongside diabetes prevention. This shift was formally recognized with the program’s rebranding as the Diabetes Prevention & Wellness Program (DPWP), reflecting a more holistic approach to health.
Our Future: The Diabetes Prevention & Wellness Program
The mission of the Diabetes Prevention & Wellness Program (DPWP) is to prevent type 2 diabetes by promoting healthy habits that address prediabetes and gestational diabetes, and by
focusing on removing barriers to health. The DPWP recognizes that wellness is key to preventing chronic diseases like diabetes, focusing not only on the absence of disease but on maintaining physical and emotional wellbeing.
The DPWP has identified six key “stepping stones” to promote small, manageable changes that enhance health and wellness (see Figure 1). These include:
1. Moving your body
2. Consuming healthy food and beverages
3. Getting enough sleep
4. Reducing stress
5. Minimizing environmental toxins
6. Taking care of your entire body (e.g., heart, brain, mouth)
Each step encourages Santa Clara County residents to make sustainable, healthy changes that contribute to long-term wellness.
Understanding the State of Diabetes
Type 2 diabetes remains a major health challenge nationwide, and Santa Clara County is no exception.2 Nationally, 90-95% of the 37.3 million U.S. adults with diabetes have type 2 diabetes.3 Locally, diabetes was the fifth leading cause of death in Santa Clara County from 2012-2021, and in 2021, 9% of county residents were diagnosed with diabetes.4
African/African Ancestry, Latino, and male residents are disproportionately impacted by diabetes-related complications, including death.5
Prediabetes, a precursor to type 2 diabetes, affects 98 million adults nationally, yet 80% are unaware of their condition.3 Locally, only 22% of Santa Clara County residents report ever being diagnosed with prediabetes.6 Early identification and intervention for prediabetes are crucial, as up to 70% of individuals with prediabetes
will develop type 2 diabetes within their lifetime.7
Additionally, gestational diabetes affects up to 10% of pregnancies nationwide, significantly increasing the risk of developing type 2 diabetes later in life.8 In Santa Clara County, gestational diabetes rates have increased steadily, from 5.2% of births in 2010 to 14.1% in 2022.9 Addressing gestational diabetes is a priority, especially among Asian/ Pacific Islander residents, who experience the highest rates of this condition.8
Addressing Health Disparities and Equity
Diabetes disproportionately affects certain racial, ethnic, and socioeconomic groups in Santa Clara County. The 2023-2028 DPWP Strategic Plan prioritizes the populations most impacted by diabetes, including Latino, African/African Ancestry, and Asian residents, as well as low-income individuals, those with less than a high school education, males, and residents living in zip codes with a diabetes prevalence of 10% or higher (see Figure 2).
The DPWP employs the Bay Area Regional Health Inequities Initiative (BARHII) framework, which addresses the social determinants of health, such as income inequality, education, and access to healthcare, that contribute to health disparities (see Figure 3).10 By focusing on upstream factors, the DPWP works to prevent diabetes at its root causes.
The DPWP is also committed to using data-driven strategies to monitor health disparities, track the impact of its programs, and ensure that prevention efforts are reaching the most vulnerable populations. The goal is not just to reduce diabetes rates, but to advance health equity across Santa Clara County by addressing the systemic inequalities that drive poor health outcomes.
Primary Prevention for a Healthier Community
The DPWP takes a primary prevention approach, focusing on preventing type 2 diabetes before it occurs.11 This approach aligns with broader public health strategies that emphasize the promotion of health and wellbeing through lifestyle interventions and community-based efforts. Public health initiatives that successfully reduced smoking provide a model for how a comprehensive, coordinated prevention strategy can yield long-term health benefits.
Figure 1: DPWP Six Stepping Stones to Wellness
Figure 2: Thirteen Santa Clara County Zip Codes with Diabetes Incidence of 10% or more
By promoting healthy lifestyles and removing barriers to wellness, the DPWP is positioning Santa Clara County as a leader in diabetes prevention and health equity. Through community partnerships, evidence-based programs, and a commitment to addressing social determinants of health, the DPWP aims to reduce the burden of diabetes and improve the wellbeing of all residents.
Call to Action
Through a collective impact model and innovative strategies, the burden of type 2 diabetes can be relieved for many in our community.12 Cross-collaboration with key community partners is imperative to generate and sustain long-term positive outcomes, particularly for the most vulnerable populations disproportionately affected by diabetes. Visit SCCPreventDiabetes.org to learn more and contact us to join the efforts.
6. UCLA Center for Health Policy Research. California Health Interview Survey, 2021.
7. Cao, Z., Li, W., Wen, C.P., et al. (2023). Risk of death
As we look ahead to the future, the DPWP continues its commitment to preventing type 2 diabetes and promoting wellness in Santa Clara County. By working together, we can ensure that every resident has the opportunity to live a healthy, fulfilling life. The time to act is now.
References
1. https://www.cdc.gov/diabetes/prevention/what-is-dpp.htm
2. https://healthpolicy.ucla.edu/our-work/publications/Documents/PDF/2016/prediabetes-brief-mar2016.pdf
3. https://publichealth.sccgov.org/resources-data/data/diabetes
4. County of Santa Clara Public Health Department. 20122021 Death Statistical Master File.
5. California Department of Health Care Access and Information Data. Patient Discharge Data, 2017-2021.
associated with reversion from prediabetes to normoglycemia and the role of modifiable risk factors. JAMA Network Open, 6(3): e234989. doi:10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2023.4989
8. https://www.cdc.gov/dhdsp/pubs/docs/ccl-practitioners-guide.pdf
9. County of Santa Clara Public Health Department. California Integrated Vital Records System, 2006-2022 Births.
10. http://barhii.org/framework
11. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK537222/
12. National Association of Chronic Disease Directors. 2020. National DPP State Engagement Model Collective Impact in Action Report.
Figure 3: A Public Health Framework for Reducing Health Inequities, Bay Area Regional Health Inequities Initiative (BARHII)
Figure 4: The Three-Step Prevention Strategy
The 153rd Annual Session of the California Medical Association (CMA) House of Delegates (HOD) took place at the SAFE Credit Union Convention Center in Sacramento on October 26-27, 2024. The District VII Delegation comprised of the Santa Clara County Medical Association, The San Mateo Medical Association and the Santa Cruz Monterey Medical Association gathered their Delegates to contribute to the policy direction of CMA. The Santa Clara County Medical Association is comprised of thirty-two seated delegates.
CMA’s physician delegates meet annually to establish broad policy on current major issues that have been determined to be the most important issues affecting members, the association and the practice of medicine. The major topics for discussion
this year were Maternal Health Equity: Obstetric Deserts and Reproductive Health and Rural Health
The full text for both reports are available at: https://www. cmadocs.org/hod/reports
Congratulations to Dr. Gloria Wu on her new position as the District VII Trustee and Dr. Veena Vanchinathan on her new position as District VII Vice Chair. We also are grateful for Dr. Seema Sidhu and Dr. Ciara Harraher as they continue to serve as our District Trustees. San Luis Obispo pediatrician René Bravo, M.D., was named California Medical Association president-elect.
Maternal Health Equity:
Counties that lack maternity care resources, have no hospitals or birth centers offering obstetric care, or have no obstetric providers, are called maternity care deserts, or “OB deserts”. The
number of OB deserts in California, in both rural and urban areas, has been growing. Between 2012 and 2019 at least 19 California hospitals stopped providing maternity care. Between 2020 and 2022 this trend accelerated with 16 more hospitals closing their maternity wards. There continue to be additional closures, and even more are under consideration. With a focus on OB deserts, we can ensure that CMA has sufficient and appropriate policy to meaningfully and creatively engage in efforts to ensure that pregnant patients in these geographic areas have access to the care necessary to ensure healthy outcomes for both the baby and mother.
According to a recent California Healthline Report, more than half of rural hospitals in the United States lack a maternity ward. As of April 2024, California has 56 rural hospitals and 32 of those hospitals or 57 percent are without obstetric services. The median driving time for patients to drive to a hospital with OB services is 50 minutes. Twenty-four rural hospitals in the state provide OB services and 58% of those hospitals report losses on patient services.
A study by the American Journal of Public Health that looked at adverse maternal outcomes in rural and urban areas across the country found that pregnant individuals residing in rural areas experienced slightly increased rates of Intensive Care Unit admissions and maternal mortality rates almost twice the rate of individuals in urban areas. However, this study also noted this was a persisting disparity identified in previous studies and thus could not explain the reason maternal mortality rates overall have increased.
Rural Health:
The U.S. Census Bureau considers places with low-population densities (less than 425 housing units 34 per square mile) rural.
Rural California is home to 2 million residents or almost 6% of California’s population. Both public health and health care delivery systems recognize that where a person lives plays an important role in their health. There are many distinctions between rural and urban areas of the state, stemming from the differences in geography, infrastructure, and demographics. Health care delivery and health care outcomes are not immune from those distinctions and may require specific policies to address those unique needs. In particular, there are perennial concerns about access to care and health disparities that exist for rural communities, along with health care infrastructure concerns that are distinct from those in urban communities. Workforce shortages and financial stressors continue to be a barrier to accessing care in rural communities. Appropriately maximizing telehealth use and investing in alternative care pathways can help bridge the gap between physician supply and patient demand in rural California. Investments in preventive care and public health can also foster healthier rural communities. Physicians engaging with their patients as trusted messengers can prevent the spread of detrimental health guidance. While rates of facility, including hospital, closures are increasing in rural California, substantial change and investments in payment models can reverse the tide, preventing the further erosion of access to care.
Your voice in organized medicine:
The annual House of Delegates meeting is not the only way that physician members can participate in the CMA governance process, all members are encouraged to comment in the yearround resolution process.
If you are interested in becoming an Alternate Delegate to participate in future meetings of the House of Delegates please contact Emily@sccma.org.
Attention SCCMA Members:
You are cordially invited to attend the virtual SCCMA Annual Membership Meeting on Tuesday, December 10, 2024, from 5:30 PM to 6:30 PM
This important meeting will feature:
A Year in Review highlighting SCCMA’s accomplishments. Exciting plans for 2025. A nominations presentation and vote for the slate of candidates.
Electronic voting for the President-Elect position will open on December 11, 2024, and remain available until December 18, 2024. This vote is open to Active SCCMA Members. Ballots will be distributed electronically starting December 11, 2024 If you do not receive your ballot after this date, please contact Rashida@sccma.org for assistance.
We look forward to your participation!
Dr. Gloria Wu, SCCMA President
Marc Chow, CEO / Executive Director
Santa Clara County Medical Association (408) 998 - 8850 CONTACT US
December 10, 2024 5:30 PM Zoom Annual Membership Meeting
Virtual Grand Rounds: From Avian Flu to COVID-19 – How the “One Health” Approach Improves Human, Animal and Environmental Health
Date: Tuesday, November 12
Time: 12:00 PM – 1:00 PM
Hosted by: California Medical Association
Registration: Free
While traditional medical education has focused only on the human patient, over time we have recognized the profound influence that environmental and animal have on human health. By looking at the whole picture rather than individual pieces, an approach called “One Health,” we can be more effective not only at preventing human disease, but also at creating a sustainable planet for all life.
In this Virtual Grand Rounds, our guests will discuss examples of “One Health” challenges and describe how bringing this mindset into our clinics, societal actions and policy is vital as we face challenges from COVID-19 to avian influenza.
Register at www.sccma.org/news-events/upcoming-events. aspx
Webinar: 2025 ICD-10-CM Coding Updates
Date: Wednesday, November 19
Time: 12:15 PM – 1:15 PM
Location: Zoom
Hosted by: California Medical Association
This webinar to learn about 2025 changes to ICD-10 guidelines and codes, including 252 new codes, 36 deletions and 13 revisions. The chapters that will see the most new codes are Neoplasms, Mental, Behavioral and Neurodevelopmental disorders, Digestive, Musculoskeletal, and Chapters 19 and 21.
Register on CMA Website: www.cmadocs.org/events
Saving
Private
Practice – Merging Practice
Strategies to Stay Independent
Date: Wednesday, November 20
Time: 12:15 PM – 1:15 PM
Location: Zoom
Registration: Free to Physicians and their Office Managers
Saving Private Practice is a program designed to assist physician members from solo/small/medium medical practices. The webinar series are monthly educational sessions designed to assist with office operations, decision making, and practice management. This one-hour session will be led by Debra Phairas, President of Practice and Liability Consultants. In this new era of health care, consolidating practices can
To register for any of these events, please visit www. sccma.org or scan the QR code
result in economies of scale, reduction of overhead, increased power in contracting, increased net income, ability to recruit new partners and retire partners. But as in a marriage, good communication and shared values are key to compatibility and long term success. This workshop covers practical strategies to manage a successful merger.
Register at www.sccma.org/news-events/upcoming-events. aspx
CMA Webinar: Documentation and Discoverability
Date: Thursday, December 5
Time: 12:15 PM – 1:15 PM
Registration: Free
This educational webinar is designed to present physicians with the essential knowledge to understand the scope of discoverability in malpractice litigation. From policies to casual conversations, every aspect of a physician’s professional life can be subject to discovery in the event of litigation.
Note: While this program provides valuable insights into discoverability principles, it does not focus on California-specific laws or specific cases. Instead, it aims to raise awareness of the potential scope of discoverability and underscore the critical role of documentation.
Register on CMA Website: www.cmadocs.org/events
Special Announcement: Annual Awards Gala will be in Early Winter 2025
SCCMA’s Annual Gala will be in early Winter 2025. Please stay tuned on our website, emails, and social media platforms for more information to come. We can’t wait to see everyone in the new year as we thank 2024 SCCMA President, Gloria Wu, MD and welcome 2025 President, Fahd Khan, MD!!
Legislative Advocacy Day
Date: April 9th, 2024
Please save the date as be plan for state advocacy in the new year!
Environmental Health Spring Webinar Series 2025
Save the Dates! March 25th, April 8th, April 22nd, May 6th
For more information on all events, please visit www.sccma.org/news-events/ upcoming-events.aspx
CINDY RUSSELL, MD
Co-Chair SCCMA Environmental Health Committee
As Hurricane Helene swirled over the East Coast of the U.S. on September 26, 2024, disrupting the medical supply chain for IV fluids, she reminded us that the environment is directly linked to our health and our health directly affects our environment. Medicine has changed in the last 200 years, but so has the landscape of our environment and human illness. Prior to industrialization infectious diseases were the leading cause of death. Chronic diseases now lead the way with over half of all adults with a chronic disease. 78% of those over 55 have a chronic illness. For children, 27-43% suffer a chronic illness, depending on how many chronic diseases are listed.
Climate change, as we know, is expected to intensity all these issues with an increase in medical emergencies from heatwaves, wildfires, floods, tropical storms and hurricanes as well as exacerbating air pollution, water contamination, vector borne diseases, food security and mental health issues. This all leads to more need for medical services and supplies, which contributes to more medical waste and global climate change, while continuing to increase medical costs and societal disruption.
How do we start to break this cycle of chronic illness and environmental decline that is increasingly impacting our ability to care for patients? How can we be better stewards of our environment to protect and preserve a healthy planet with healthy people? In this 2024 webinar series Environment and Health we look at some ways to reduce the burden of climate change and illness, understanding that our health is inextricably related to a cleaner environment and a stable climate.
Climate Change, Artificial Turf, Environmental Toxins-Environmental Illness
The three webinars in our 2024 series, which are now online at SCCMA.org are, Confronting Climate Change, Artificial Turf and Environmental Toxins- Environmental Illness. These were all enlightening and inspiring talks with expert presenters.
Confronting Climate Change: Carbon Storage, Reduction and Natural Regeneration
NASA’s latest measurement of atmospheric carbon dioxide Sept 2024 is 422 ppm and climbing. The scientific consensus is clear, “Carbon dioxide in the atmosphere warms the planet, causing climate change. Human activities have raised the atmosphere’s carbon dioxide content by 50% in less than 200 years.” (NASA) The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change agreed in 2018 that we have only until 2030 to stop irreversible climate damage. While many of us know a lot about the problems, which still need much discussion, this webinar focuses on solutions, both industrial (carbon capture and storage) and local (regenerative agriculture).
Speakers
Ted Schettler MD, MPH; Confronting Carbon Storage: False promises and real solutions. Dr. Ted Schettler is the science director at Science and Environmental Health Network. He is also science advisor to Health Care Without Harm. He is co-author of Generations at Risk: Reproductive Health and the Environment, In Harm’s Way: Toxic Threats to Child Development and The Ecology of Breast Cancer. Dr. Schettler has served on advisory committees of the US EPA and National Academy of Sciences. Kathy Webster - Hospital Investment in Regenerative Agriculture: Healthy Soils, Planet, and People Kathy is the food advocacy manager at TomKat Ranch Educational Foundation in Pescadero, California. The ranch practices and promotes regenerative agriculture.
Artificial Turf on Sports Fields: Promise or Peril?
Artificial turf was introduced into the sports world in 1965. Currently there are approximately 13,000 synthetic turf sport fields in the U.S. and the number is increasing. While in the past artificial turf seemed to be the best alternative for sports fields and lawns due to reduced costs, reduced water usage, and lower maintenance, newer information has come to light regarding the direct and indirect environmental and health impacts of synthetic grass. Toxic chemical exposures, sports injuries, mi-
croplastic water contamination, urban heat islands, inadequate recyclability, high carbon footprint and inability to use recycled water on artificial turf sports fields are all emerging as major issues, forcing cities to reexamine their choices and look at organically managed natural grass fields. Artificial turf is now recognized as a global problem contributing to climate change. Cities, States and Countries are now starting to ban artificial turf.
Speakers:
Sarah F. Evans, PhD, MPH - Artificial Turf and Children’s Health
Assistant Professor Children’s Environmental Health Center, Department of Environmental Medicine and Climate Science, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai
Rika Gopinath – The Essentials of Organically Managed Natural Grass Turf
Community Policy and Action Manager at Beyond Pesticides.
Rachel Massey, ScD - Safer Athletic Fields: Reducing Toxic Chemical Use
Senior science and policy advisor, Collaborative for Health and Environment and senior research associate, Lowell Center for Sustainable Production, University of Massachusetts Lowell
Environmental Toxins – Environmental Illness: Root Causes and Prevention
An epidemic of chronic illness is upon us in the U.S. Almost half the population of Americans suffer from a chronic illness which is ongoing, and often not curable. These conditions include cancer, thyroid disease, diabetes, asthma and autoimmune disease. Neurologic diseases such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s are the fastest growing neurological diseases in the world.
Scientific research is revealing the connection between chronic disease, genetics and preventable environmental factors- pesticides, flame retardants, antimicrobials, PFAS in hundreds of products we use, as well as food packaging. Three experts addressed the scientific evidence pointing to the root causes of illness and what we can do to address this problem. You will learn that about 85% of Parkinson’s Disease is environmentally caused and what those environmental factors are, among many other eye-opening scientific pearls.
Speakers:
Christopher D’Adamo, PhD. Total load: the synergistic effects of modifiable lifestyle factors and environmental exposures on human health.
University of Maryland School of Medicine Assistant Professor, Department of Family and Community Medicine and the Department of Epidemiology and Public Health; Director, Center for Integrative Medicine
Pete Myers, PhD The impact of plastic additives on the health of future generations.
Founder and chief scientist of Environmental Health Sciences, Adjunct Professor of Chemistry at Carnegie Mellon University, author of Our Stolen Future: Are we threatening our fertility, intelligence and survival?
Ray Dorsey, MD, MBA , The Root Causes of Parkinson’s Disease.
David M. Levy Professor of Neurology at the University of Rochester and Co-Author of Ending Parkinson’s Disease: A Prescription for Action.
INTEGRATION OF AI IN HEALTHCARE SERIES
The integration of artificial intelligence (AI) in healthcare is transforming the landscape of medical practices and patient care. AI technologies, including machine learning, natural language processing, and data analytics, are being utilized to enhance various aspects of healthcare, from diagnostics to treatment planning.
Santa Clara County Medical Association (SCCMA) wrapped up its third and final AI in Healthcare meeting of 2024 on September 6th, part of a 3 series program that was launched in May 2024. The meeting of the minds took place at SCCMA’s office at 700 Empey Way in San Jose, where we had about 40 people in attendance and 20 who viewed the event online. We kicked off the event with a happy hour, followed by 7-minute presentations delivered by researchers and medical executives presenting in person and from different parts of the world. The evening concluded with dinner and meaningful conversations between the audience members and presenters. All in all, the AI & Healthcare series was a huge success where we created a platform for innovators and researchers to present their work. The event has generated more interest since its inception, and we look forward to hosting another series in 2025.
Here is an overview of the presenters, and a summary of the presentations from the September 6th event, and additionally, offer insights into what to expect in 2025.
Dr. Winnie Sun and Sara Elgazzar are at the forefront of an exploratory study, Integrating Virtual Reality Reminiscence Therapy into Dementia Care. Their work focuses on leveraging immersive technology to enhance cognitive engagement and emotional well-being among individuals with dementia. Dr. Sun and Elgazzar’s exploratory study contributes to the growing body of evidence supporting the use of VR in therapeutic settings for dementia care. Their findings suggest that VRT can play a significant role in enhancing the quality of life for individuals with dementia, warranting further research and development in this innovative area.
Monica Cameirao, a staff member at the University of Madeira in Portugal, is leading a study focused on providing psychological support through a customizable virtual reality (VR) experience represents a promising approach to addressing the emotional needs of individuals after a miscarriage. This innovative use of technology highlights the potential of
VR in therapeutic settings, offering hope for enhanced emotional healing and support. Further research will be essential to evaluate the effectiveness and impact of this approach.
Dr. Jianying Hu, Ph.D., is an expert in the application of artificial intelligence (AI) in healthcare and life sciences. His research focuses on leveraging foundation models to advance drug discovery processes. Dr. Jianying Hu’s research on the integration of AI and foundation models in drug discovery represents a significant advancement in the field of healthcare and life sciences. By harnessing the power of AI, this research aims to transform traditional drug development processes, making them more efficient, precise, and innovative. Continued exploration and validation of these technologies will be essential for their successful implementation in real-world drug discovery scenarios.
Eleonora Chitti, a research student at the University of Milan, is investigating the application of mixed reality (MR) technologies to address freezing gait, a common and debilitating symptom of Parkinson’s disease. Eleonora Chitti’s research on utilizing mixed reality to address freezing gait in Parkinson’s disease represents a promising intersection of technology and rehabilitation. By creating engaging and supportive environments for movement, this approach has the potential to significantly enhance the quality of life for individuals with Parkinson’s.
Mohammed Al-Temimi is a researcher affiliated with Sutter Health, focusing on the application of the Da Vinci Surgical System for performing the Whipple procedure. Mohammed Al-Temimi’s work on the Whipple procedure using the Da Vinci Surgical System at Sutter Health highlights the potential of robotic-assisted surgery to transform complex surgical practices. By improving precision and patient outcomes, this approach can significantly enhance the surgical management of pancreatic conditions
Jag Khaira is investigating the development and application of Ambient Large Language Models (LLMs), emphasizing their integration into diverse environments to improve user interaction and accessibility. Jag Khaira’s research into Ambient LLMs represents a promising frontier in the intersection of AI and user interaction. how individuals engage with technology in their daily lives
Carl Im serves as the Chief AI Officer at Medisola, a company based in South Korea focused on leveraging artificial intelligence (AI) to innovate in the healthcare sector. Carl Im’s
leadership at Medisola exemplifies the growing role of AI in transforming healthcare. By focusing on innovative solutions that enhance patient care and operational efficiency, his work contributes to the advancement of healthcare technology in South Korea and beyond.
Pat Healy at the University of Pittsburgh spoke about a virtual reality simulation for peripheral nerve block training, an exciting development in medical training, as Virtual Reality (VR) simulations that can provide immersive, hands-on experience without the risks associated with practicing on real patients.
John Tetnowski, Ph.D., is a recognized expert in speech-language pathology at Oklahoma State University. His research focuses on the use of Virtual Reality (VR) technology as a tool for addressing stuttering. John Tetnowski’s research on the application of VR in stuttering therapy represents an innovative approach to speech-language pathology.
Mankit Leung, MD, is a specialist in otolaryngology at the University of California, San Francisco (UCSF). His research focuses on the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) technologies in the field of ear, nose, and throat (ENT) medicine. Mankit Leung’s research on the application of AI in ENT medicine represents a significant step forward in enhancing diagnostic and treatment capabilities within the field. By lev-
eraging AI technologies, this work aims to improve patient outcomes and streamline healthcare delivery, marking an important advancement in otolaryngology.
Rohit Patil is exploring the concept of “Long Health,” focusing on strategies and innovations aimed at promoting longevity and enhancing the quality of life as individuals age.
Rohit Patil’s research on Long Health aims to redefine aging by promoting strategies that enhance health span and improve quality of life. By focusing on preventative measures and comprehensive health management, this work has the potential to significantly impact how society approaches aging and longevity.
If you missed the event but want to learn more, you can catch the presentations at the following website [insert web link here]. Don’t miss out on valuable insights and be on the lookout for new dates for the 2025 series!
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