The Center for Chronic Illness Self-Management & Prevention at UNMC College of Nursing is gearing up for its annual symposium on April 27. This event dives into the tough issues of food and financial insecurity and their impact on chronic illness.
From 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Truhlsen Events Center in Omaha, attendees can look forward to a keynote address, expert presentations, and interactive opportunities to explore community resources. The focus is on how social factors, like access to food and economic stability, affect health outcomes.
The keynote speaker, Shawna Forsberg, is the CEO of United Way of the Midlands. She will share important data on food and financial insecurity in the Omaha-Council Bluffs area. Her talk, titled “Signals and Trends: Responding Together with a Circle of Support,” will discuss how local challenges can lead to chronic health issues and how healthcare providers can better connect patients with community resources.
A recent survey shows that about 10% of households in the region face food insecurity, highlighting the need for effective community support. Industry experts suggest that addressing these issues can significantly improve health outcomes.
Other renowned speakers at the symposium include Mariah Kay Jackson, a registered dietitian and assistant professor at UNMC, Natalia Santos, a health promotion expert, and Tracie Kirkland, an associate dean at the College of Nursing. Their insights will provide a rounded view on tackling food and economic challenges in healthcare.
Abstracts for poster presentations are welcome, and continuing education credit is available. For more details and registration, check out this link. Don’t miss early-bird registration available until March 27.
This symposium promises valuable discussions and resources for those looking to make a difference in addressing chronic illness through community and financial support.
