ALC — Leadership, Networking and Mentoring | |
In late July, I was fortunate to be able to attend another AAP Annual Leadership Conference (ALC) on behalf of our chapter. Dr. Webb and Dr. Takayama have written about the many thoughtful and important resolutions authored or co-authored by our chapter members and sponsored by our chapter. It was an honor to be there to discuss and vote on the topics and proposals by the AAP membership, and to decide which of these resolutions were going to be sent on to the AAP Board of Directors to help direct the actions and positions of our academy.
A recurring theme at the conference was, “I need to figure out how to return to this meeting!”. The leaders who attend the ALC are chapter and district leaders, executive directors, and national committee, section and council leaders. Those of us nearing the end of our leadership terms recognize the importance of mentoring new participants and are eager to explore other ways to contribute.
While the primary focus of the ALC is discussing and voting on resolutions, the conference also offers opportunities to engage with candidates for AAP President, hear from the AAP CEO, President, and executive leadership about organizational priorities, and learn about advocacy, equity, diversity, inclusion, and environmental health. It’s a busy four days - fun, interesting, stimulating and exhausting!
During my term as Chapter President, I often wrote about how much I valued the opportunity to connect with you all and to work on behalf of children and pediatricians. At a time when we are all searching for balance and wellness, this work and the connections I’ve made have helped me avoid burnout. One of the duties of the immediate past president of our chapter is to chair the Chapter Nominating Committee. I welcome the opportunity to connect chapter members with opportunities to lead, learn and advocate within our chapter or with national AAP. If you have an interest or expertise you wish to share, please reach out—perhaps you will one day be sharing your experiences from the ALC in an article.
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Nelson Branco, MD, FAAP
Past President, AAPCA1
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As our children return to the community for another school year’s commencement, we will focus our next few Equity Columns on topics pertinent to this time of year. This month, we want to highlight the importance of body-neutral speech and the Health at Every Size (HAES) movement. A part of our job as pediatricians is to lay down a framework in childhood and adolescence for a continued positive and healthy relationship with our own bodies, nutrition, and physical activity to last the lifespan.
Weight stigma, also known as sizeism, is discrimination and stereotyping based on a person’s weight, size, and look. Weight-based discrimination is equal to that of other types of stigma, including that based on race, religion, sexuality, or physical disability. Some examples of weight stigma include receiving negative comments or “health concerns” about weight from health care professionals, complimenting someone on their weight loss, or requiring someone to lose weight to receive a medical treatment. The incidence of weight stigma has increased by 66% alongside the rise of health campaigns to end the “obesity epidemic.” Whether in the community, at school, or during medical appointments, weight stigma causes suffering by promoting body dissatisfaction and has been linked to health care avoidance, low self-esteem, disordered eating, substance use, and even suicidality.
Pediatricians are vital in helping reduce weight stigma and supporting youth of all body compositions. Adopting a weight-inclusive approach in clinical practice is believing everybody is capable of achieving health and well-being, independent of weight.
Using the HAES framework, here are some ways to incorporate this model into clinical practice.
Weight Inclusivity:
Appreciating that our bodies come in all different shapes and sizes, minimize showing growth curves, and discussing weight/BMI. Focus on behaviors that impact health: eating, movement, sleep hygiene, and stress management.
Respectful Care:
Explore our own weight bias and work to end weight discrimination. Create a welcoming environment for all body types by having furniture that allows patients of all sizes to sit comfortably, larger blood pressure cuff sizes, and privacy if it’s essential to measure a patient’s weight. Include body size diversity in all internal and patient-facing images and information. Inclusive imagery that embraces diversity, including size diversity, creates safe spaces and allows for equitable healthcare for all.
Continue reading . . .
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Amna Khan, MD, FAAP
Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion Champion, AAPCA1
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Suicidal Thoughts and Substance Abuse | |
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With increasing rates of adolescent mental health-related problems, such as suicide and substance use, pediatricians need updated information to guide screening, prevention and intervention in their practices. A recent study by Tervo-Clemmens et al. (JAMA Pediatrics, 178(3), 2024) surveyed 15,626 high school students across 36 Massachusetts schools to self-report about substance use and suicidal ideation using the SURF survey (Substance Use and Risk Factor). Substance use frequency was categorized as never, ever but noncurrent, monthly, weekly or near daily. As might be expected, alcohol, cannabis and nicotine use were each significantly associated with worse psychiatric symptoms. But was there a relationship between substance use and suicidal thoughts?
Continue reading . . . .
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Renee Wachtel, MD, FAAP
Chair, School Health and Behavioral & Developmental Committees, AAPCA1
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Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) Recurrent Risk | |
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Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is currently estimated by the CDC to affect 2.8% of children in the US. This population prevalence has been steadily increasing since the CDC has been conducting population-based studies. Families with a child with ASD often ask their pediatrician about the ASD recurrence risk for future children. What do we know about this?
A recent study by Ozonoff et al. ( Pediatrics, 2024, 154(2): e2023065297) updated our knowledge about this issue by following 1,605 infants across 18 sites with an older sibling with ASD until the child was 3 years old. At 3 years, children are classified as ASD or non-ASD based on detailed evaluations. What did they find?
Continue reading . . . .
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Renee Wachtel, MD, FAAP
Chair, School Health and Behavioral & Developmental Committees, AAPCA1
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The following are just a few of the key bills of interest to AAP-CA (our California AAP District advocacy group). Visit the AAP-CA website’s Advocacy page at https://aap-ca.org/advocacy/ to see the entire list of AAP-CA tracked bills that made it to the Governor’s desk where you can read the outcome of each bill and an in-depth analysis.
AAPCA1 has recently supported several significant advocacy efforts. Here’s what we signed on to:
Title IV-B Child Welfare Bill
AAPCA1, alongside numerous national, state and local organizations, signed a letter to Congress endorsing this bipartisan bill. The act focuses on strengthening family support, enhancing mental health resources, and investing in a child welfare workforce that supports thriving families. It also includes vital funding increases for the Court Improvement Program and Regional Partnership Grants.
California Clean Air Program Waivers:
AAPCA1 joined 65 health organizations in urging the EPA to approve eight California clean air rules. These rules are expected to save 11,000 lives and provide over $116 billion in health benefits by implementing stricter emissions standards across various sectors.
If you have questions and/or are interested in knowing more about certain legislation, reach out to our State Government Affairs Chapter Representative Nora Pfaff, MD, FAAP and Anna Kaplan, MD, FAAP, at info@aapca1.org.
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District IV Chair Town Hall Meeting
This event will introduce AAP District IX members to the candidates running for the Chair position: Drs. Eric Ball and Alice Kuo. Attendees will also receive an overview of the 2024 legislative session and AAP-CA’s primary activities on initiatives. Dr. Sharon Pham, co-chair of the AAP-CA State Government Affairs Committee, will provide insights into the legislative landscape before the Q&A session with the district chair candidates.
The voting period for the District Chair position will open on September 11, coinciding with the national presidential elections. A separate email from National with voting details will be sent closer to that time.
Date: Monday, September 9
Time: 6:30 - 8:00pm PDT
Location: via Zoom
Register Here
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Immigrant Health & Climate Change: Caring for Displaced Children and Families
In this Chapter Chat, co-hosted by the Immigrant Health Committee and Climate Change & Child Health Committee, pediatricians will learn about the connections between environmental health and immigrant health. We will discuss and provide resources for pediatricians to address the combined impacts of immigration, displacement, and climate change on the health of our patients.
Date: Wednesday, September 11
Time: 7:00 - 8:30pm PDT
Location: via Zoom
Register Here
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Cal-MAP Chapter Chat:
Saving a Life - Supporting Adolescents at Risk for Suicide
September is Suicide Prevention Month, and we are hosting an important Chapter Chat on the topic. We will discuss how pediatric care providers can effectively communicate with adolescents who may be struggling with suicidale ideation and related mental health issues. Learn how to identify high-risk and low-risk situations and determine the next steps. We will highlight resources such as Cal-MAP to support youth in your practice.
Date: Wednesday, September 18
Time: 7:00 - 8:30pm PDT
Location: via Zoom
Register Here
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Development and Behavior Committee Meeting
Please join us for an upcoming Developmental and Behavior Committee Meeting. Join us for important discussions about Autism Spectrum DIsorder (including pediatrician diagnosis, access to services and recurrence risks), School-based Behavioral Health issues (such as consent and information sharing), Suicide Prevention initiatives, and strategic planning.
Date: Tuesday, September 24
Time: 7:00-8:30pm PDT
Location: via Zoom
RSVP Here
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Save the Date! Pediatric Puzzles Conference
Save the date, Saturday, December 7, to join AAPCA1 at Oakland Museum of California for our 9th Annual Pediatric Puzzles CME Conference! We will have interactive lectures by experts in pediatric pulmonology, allergy, refugee experience, immigrant health, and ableism. You won't want to miss the latest updates on asthma, use of biologics in allergy, and enlightened, thoughtful ways to welcome and care for your patients.
Date: Saturday, December 7
Time: 8:30 - 2:30pm PDT
Location: Oakland Museum of California
1000 Oak St, Oakland, CA 94607
Credits: 5 CME credits available
All attendees will receive free admission to the Museum!
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Chapter Leadership Positions | |
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Seeking Monterrey Bay Area Director Applications!
As an Area Director, you'll be part of a dynamic team representing one of our 11 diverse geographic areas. You'll become a voting member of our chapter board and engage with local pediatric providers to advocate for children's health through the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP). Volunteer alongside a supportive leadership team dedicated to shaping the future of pediatric care.
Why Join Us?
- Engage Locally
- Advocate for Children
- Collaborative Leadership
Perks and Benefits
- Membership on AAPCA1 Board: Gain valuable experience and networking opportunities.
- Discounted CME Events: Access quality education at reduced rates.
- Advocacy Days: Participate in impactful advocacy efforts.
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CATCH Facilitator Position
The AAP Community Access to Child Health (CATCH) Program is seeking applicants for the volunteer position of Chapter CATCH Facilitator (CCF). CCFs are appointed by their state Chapter to serve a renewable three-year term. CATCH’s mission is to support pediatricians to collaborate within their communities to advance the health of all children. Our vision is that every child in every community reach optimal health and well-being.
To apply send CV to info@aapca1.org.
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Apply for the Care & Connect Microgrant Up to $2,000!
AAP California Chapter 1 (AAPCA1) is excited to offer its members the opportunity to apply for a chapter microgrant. The Care & Connect Microgrant Project, offers microgrants valued at up to $2,000 (no amount is too small) which can be utilized in one of two impactful ways:
Child Health Care: The first option supports innovative community-based child health initiatives. These projects should focus on providing access to services that lead to optimal child health and well-being, building strong community partnerships, and have measurable outcomes. This is a unique opportunity to implement creative solutions that address health disparities and enhance the lives of children in underserved communities.
Member Connect: The second option for microgrant use is to host member gatherings and meetings within your local area. Whether it's organizing a coffee networking event, hosting a coffee meet-up, or creating other networking and meeting opportunities, these gatherings aim to strengthen the connections among pediatricians and pediatric residents. Such events foster collaboration, share best practices, and build a supportive professional community and increase member engagement.
Along with the grant, you will have the full support of our AAPCA1 staff to carry out your grant goals. We encourage all members to take advantage of this chance to either drive community health improvements or enhance pediatric connections!
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AAPCA3 Chapter Townhall Event - Sex, Drugs & Rock N' Roll
This adolescent health lecture series will review updates on physical evaluations, recommendations for concussion management, and how to provide effective guidance on sports and nutrition fads.
Date: September 10
Time: 6:30-8:00pm
Location: via Zoom
1.5 CME upon completion!
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AAPCA3 27th Annual San Diego Pediatric School Health Conference
This talk will review updates on hot topics with Dr. Joshua Feder on Children and War Trauma, autism updates with Dr. Lauren Gist, and more!
Date: October 9 & 16
Time: 6:30-9:00pm
Location: via Zoom
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Visit our Pediatric Job Posting Board!
View new available jobs or post one of your own. Visit our site to view member discounts https://aapca1.org/jobs/
Available Jobs!
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Cal-MAP: Mental Health Support Resources
Cal-MAP’s team of mental health specialists supports primary care providers (PCPs) treating youth with mental health needs through education, consultation, and resource navigation.
Register for the Cal-MAP consultation program here: https://cal-map.org
Contact Us:
Phone:
800-253-2103
Email: info@cal-map.org
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Reading Recs
Books:
Where the Wild Things Are
Hello Lighthouse
Goodnight Moon
Recommended by Reach out and Read
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Mpox Treatment Information for Healthcare Professionals
Learn how most monkeypox patients recover with just supportive care, as no specific treatment is currently approved.
Recommended by CDC.
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National Suicide Prevention Month
Join the effort to prevent suicide this September during National Suicide Prevention Month, as the Lifeline and mental health organizations work together to raise awareness across the U.S. and globally.
Recommended by 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline
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Guidance During Shortage of Blood Culture Media Bottles
The CDC advises clinicians and lab workers to conserve BD BACTEC blood culture bottles during a shortage that could delay or complicate patient diagnosis and care.
Recommended by AAP News
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AAP National Conference and Exhibition
Join us in Orlando for the 2024 AAP National Conference & Exhibition! Connect, network, learn, and enjoy special events. A limited virtual option is also available.
Recommended by AAP
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Your membership makes a difference for children in California, thank you!
The AAPCA1's ability to advocate on behalf of children is only as strong as the support we receive from our members. Encourage your colleagues to join today by visiting the AAPCA1 website.
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Our mission is to promote the optimal health and development of children and
adolescents of Northern California in partnership with their families and communities, and to support the pediatricians who care for them.
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Executive Committee:
President: Nicole Webb • Vice President: Neel Patel
• Secretary: Resham Kaur • Treasurer: Amita Saxena • Past President: Nelson Branco
Executive Director: Yolanda Ruiz
Area Directors:
• North Valley : Aishwarya Taneja • Sacramento Valley: Lena van der List • Central Valley : Deborah Shassetz • South Valley: Sireesha Palkamsetti • San Francisco: VACANT • Santa Clara: Bindya Singh • San Mateo: Jonathon Everett • North Coastal: Jeffrey Ribordy • Monterey Bay: VACANT
• Alameda County: Renee Wachtel • Contra Costa/Solano : Jennifer Anne Miller
Pediatric Insider News Editors:
• Christy Capestany • Deborah Shassetz • Tim Sullivan • Nicole Anderson
Staff:
Executive Director: Yolanda Ruiz • Project Coordinator: Sana Sayyid •
Marketing Assistant: Arathzy Portillo
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