How is conflict helpful with business operations and clinical care? What is this lagging indicator of quality care? How is AI impacting the practice of medicine? What are the key traits for leadership in health care system? What happens when you self diagnose your cancer with a 10-20% chance of survival?

A study exploring the transformative effects of the Community Plunge, an educational
program at Wake Forest University School of Medicine (WFUSOM), on healthcare delivery,
community engagement, and trainee perspectives was recently published in the Journal of
Clinical and Translational Science. Led by Dr. Christopher A. Jones of Northwest AHEC, the
study highlights the broader context of health outcomes, where clinical care accounts for
only 20%, emphasizing the critical role of social determinants of health (SDOH) and
individual behaviors in shaping the remaining 80%.

Celebrating World Mental Health Day: The Importance of Reaching Out and Being Kind

Every year, on October 10th, people around the globe come together to raise awareness and take action for mental health. Known as World Mental Health Day, this day serves as a gentle reminder of the importance of nurturing our mental well-being, just as much as we care for our physical health. Here at Northwest Area Health Education Center (Northwest AHEC), we are proud to be part of this crucial conversation, striving to make a difference in the communities we serve.

In recent years, mental health has become a topic that is increasingly brought into the spotlight. Yet, it remains shrouded in stigma and misunderstanding. At Northwest AHEC, we believe that fostering open, honest conversations about mental health is key to breaking down these barriers. 

But what makes World Mental Health Day particularly powerful is its ability to bring people together. It’s not just about raising awareness; it's about creating a supportive network where individuals feel comfortable seeking help and offering support to one another. After all, mental health isn’t just a solitary journey—it’s a collective effort.

The Work We Do at Northwest AHEC

At Northwest AHEC, we are committed to offering programs that educate and support mental health initiatives. Our workshops and seminars are designed to equip healthcare professionals with the necessary tools to address mental health issues effectively. We are firm believers in the idea that education can be a powerful catalyst for change, and our events focus on broadening understanding, fostering empathy, and promoting resilience.

Moreover, we prioritize creating an environment where both professionals and community members can discuss mental health openly. Through collaborative discussions and interactive sessions, we aim to build a community that embraces mental health with compassion and understanding. 

Be Kind—To Yourself and Others

Kindness is a small but mighty tool that can make a world of difference. Whether it's being kind to yourself by acknowledging your feelings, or extending kindness to someone else who might be struggling, these gestures create a ripple effect that can transform lives.

On this World Mental Health Day, let’s make a conscious effort to practice kindness. Check in with yourself and those around you. Ask questions, listen actively, and offer support without judgment. Sometimes, even the smallest act of kindness can light up the darkest of days.

In conclusion, while World Mental Health Day is a wonderful opportunity to shine a spotlight on mental health, the conversation should continue every day. At Northwest AHEC, we are dedicated to advancing this dialogue and supporting our community in any way we can. Remember, it’s okay to reach out for help—there is always someone willing to listen. And always, always choose kindness—it’s more powerful than you might think.

Through multidisciplinary presentations from HPB cancer experts in medical oncology, surgical oncology, gastroenterology, and interventional radiology, the latest data on treatment of HPB malignancies will be discussed and highlighted with clinical case presentations and audience participation.

Don't miss out on the opportunity to join us this November.

This presentation will provide knowledge and background on Veteran risk and protective factors to support risk assessment and safety planning. Attending this training will improve competencies related to supporting Veterans in crisis. Register Today!

Understanding Different Motives of Domestic Violence Offenders and the Connection to Risk and Lethality: A Trauma-Responsive Approach to Domestic Violence Intervention

Please join us on Friday, October 18, 2024, for Salem Academy and College’s fourth Health Leadership Forum. The Forum will take place on Salem's campus from 9:00 am - 1:30 pm. Register Now

Metin Gurcan, PhD, director of the director of the Center for Artificial Intelligence Research and the Clinical Image Analysis Lab at Wake Forest University School of Medicine joins the Healthcare Insights in Northwest North Carolina podcast to talk about his research in Artificial Intelligence in healthcare.