(Liberty, NY 11:50am) - Sullivan County is hosting a free Blueprint for Health Equity Workshop on Friday, March 17th, from 8:00 am until 3:00 pm at SUNY Sullivan in the Student Union (G Building).
The purpose of this event is to raise awareness of the need for health equity in Sullivan County and to connect with community partners who are focused on reducing health disparities. It is a unique opportunity for professionals in healthcare, education, law enforcement, government, businesses, faith-based organizations, media, social services, public health and behavioral health services, etc. to view the work of their organization through the eyes of the people they serve.
The program begins with an overview of the structural causes of poverty, and exploring the intersection of poverty and race as social determinants of health. This discussion is followed by a poverty simulation led by Regional Economic Community Action Program (RECAP).
After the poverty simulation several speakers will delve further into the social determinants of health and provide guidance for developing actionable items. The Sullivan County Department of Public Health and organizations in the Sullivan County Rural Health Network raise awareness of and promote policies and accessible services that address health equity for all residents as a basic human right.
“Strong collaborations between health and human services providers, government officials, business leaders and health care providers are essential to addressing the social determinants of health and improving the quality of life for everyone in Sullivan County,” stated Joshua Potosek, County Manager.
“Sullivan County residents should all have access to preventive screenings, adequate health care services, nutritious food, health education, and safe and affordable housing,” said Nancy McGraw, Director of the Sullivan County Department of Public Health. “Including all residents in local decision making processes and in having a voice about what services are provided is something that our department and our community partners strive to do. We are pleased to be a sponsor of the Blueprint for Health Equity in Sullivan County as an empowering opportunity for all.”
Speakers for the afternoon include Lillian Jimenez from Westchester Medical Center, Michele McKeon from RECAP, and Erika Bernabei from Equity and Results, LLC.
To register for the Blueprint for Health Equity event, please contact Renita C. Malone at (845) 896-4726, ext. 114 or at rmalone@healthlinkny.com.
