NC AHEC Digital Library to be Relaunched with Major Improvements on June 23, 2025

On June 23, 2025, a new and improved ADL will launch, introducing a simplified and more efficient search function, called a discovery service.

The new ADL’s discovery service will allow users to search in all our resources at once. This makes searches easier, faster and more efficient, and ensures all the relevant information will be presented in the search results.

After the change, most users will access the ADL through the MyAHEC portal. Make sure you have an active MyAHEC account by June 22, 2025. Go to www.ncahec.net/create-account to create an account.  

If you have any questions about creating your account, you may contact your Librarian, Janice Moore, at jdmoore@wakehealth.edu.

How can healthcare providers check whether they are prepared to support their patients' mental healthcare needs?

ADL News for Blog Post

The Northwest AHEC Practice Support Team supports social, physical, and economic environments which promote attaining the full potential of health and well-being for all. This blog segment highlights impactful publications which promote improved health outcomes through Social Determinants of Health (SDOH) each month.

Our featured report this month discusses reducing disparities in health care.

Reducing disparities in health care. American Medical Association. https://www.ama-assn.org/delivering-care/patient-support-advocacy/reducing-disparities-health-care. October 23, 2023. Accessed November 12, 2024

In this article, the AMA aims to enhance health outcomes and reduce inequities across all patient populations. They also agreed to raise awareness of health imbalances and the importance of understanding culturally competent health care and health literacy by working with state medical societies, medical schools, medical students and policymakers. 

It is crucial for healthcare providers to be well-equipped with the knowledge and skills necessary to effectively discuss immunization with patients and caretakers who might harbor doubts or feel hesitant about vaccines. This involves understanding the underlying reasons for their hesitancy, which can range from misinformation and fear of side effects to cultural beliefs and past experiences. By being empathetic and informed, healthcare providers can build trust and provide clear, evidence-based information that addresses specific concerns, ultimately helping to alleviate fears and encourage informed decision-making regarding vaccinations.

A report from the American Academy of Pediatrics explains the possible causes behind vaccine hesitancy and suggests ways to address different types of concerns.

The AAP also provides a variety of communication aids and guides to encourage conversations about vaccines.

To learn more, check out the ADL's March 15 Highlighted Resources:

Strategies for Improving Vaccine Communication and Uptake

AAP Immunization Communication Aids

What evidence is available to support use of artificial intelligence systems in primary care?

While healthcare is learning about the important role social needs play in healthcare, does screening patients for social needs have an impact on physician wellbeing?

A recent JAMA article discusses a study on physician burnout, showing that burnout increases as physicians engage more with addressing social need challenges.

To learn more, check out the ADL's Highlighted Article for 1/15/25:
Physician Engagement in Addressing Health-Related Social Needs and Burnout

As artificial intelligence tools become widespread, it is important to understand the ways that AI can be safely used to find health information.

A recent blog post and podcast episode from the American Medical Association discusses the pros and cons of using AI to search for health info, addressing credibility, types of use, and the importance of verifying info with your doctor.

To learn more, check out the ADL's January 1 Highlighted Resource:
What doctors wish patients knew about using AI for health tips

Oral health is a key factor in overall health, but access to dental care in North Carolina is an ongoing problem.

The Northwest AHEC Practice Support Team supports social, physical, and economic environments which promote attaining the full potential of health and well-being for all. This blog segment highlights impactful publications which promote improved health outcomes through Social Determinants of Health (SDOH) each month.

In this months article, the authors introduce a model that would links cultural trauma to health disparities by three cultural resources: cultural modes, institutions, and lands. The article encourages the need to change policy to prevent dominant groups from dominating the resources of minority groups.