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<img decoding="async" style="width: 1800px;" src="https://lh7-us.googleusercontent.com/docsz/AD_4nXf4Cu1z14x-QM0sal9XL2pGtT9yrjiUb_4_4SOyO7G5JOzCyOPxuDgW-3BQwDAAQpAl2XPhrdErqc2oc9NOtroiS82lh-M_IBaPI4KKlht1QSuBAHQY87iImfSiqRfZHXy3r_ZkbXOdQtwtwjDJuecnnSH7cg23hQEtC3n45a5t6OOtsnc4rXE?key=bsz_v9AQV0mN3qLf1Kbstg">



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li><a href="https://www.aap.org/Infection-Prevention-Quick-Fixes-for-Your-Practice">I</a><a href="https://downloads.aap.org/AAP/PDF/Project_Firstline_Cleaning_and_Disinfecting_Checklist.pdf">AAP Infection Control Activities Checklist</a>&nbsp; </li>



<li><a href="https://www.aap.org/en/patient-care/infection-prevention-and-control/project-firstline/infection-prevention-and-control-precaution-tools/"></a><a href="https://www.aap.org/Infection-Prevention-Quick-Fixes-for-Your-Practice">Infection Prevention Quick Fixes For Your Practice Training Course</a><a href="https://www.aap.org/Infection-Prevention-Quick-Fixes-for-Your-Practice"> </a></li>



<li><a href="https://www.aap.org/en/patient-care/infection-prevention-and-control/project-firstline/infection-prevention-and-control-precaution-tools/">Infection Prevention and Control Precaution Tools </a></li>



<li><a href="https://www.aap.org/en/patient-care/infection-prevention-and-control/project-firstline/infection-prevention-and-control-quality-improvement-change-package/">Infection Prevention and Control Quality Improvement Change Package</a><a href="https://www.aap.org/en/patient-care/infection-prevention-and-control/project-firstline/infection-prevention-and-control-precaution-tools/"> </a></li>



<li><a href="https://www.aap.org/en/patient-care/infection-prevention-and-control/project-firstline/infection-prevention-and-control-quality-improvement-change-package/"></a><a href="https://players.brightcove.net/6056665225001/default_default/index.html?videoId=6315799188112">Improving Your Practice’s Ventilation During the Current Surge Webinar</a><a href="https://www.aap.org/en/patient-care/infection-prevention-and-control/project-firstline/infection-prevention-and-control-quality-improvement-change-package/"> </a></li>
</ul>

Infection Prevention and Control Resources

Poverty & Disparities

Anti-racism & Health Equity Workgroup History

Strategies for Improving HPV Vaccine Communication

Immunizations

Immunization Work Group MIIC Training June 2019

Immunization Work Group HPV Training July 2019

<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-vimeo wp-block-embed-vimeo wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
<iframe loading="lazy" title="Food Insecurity Referrals" src="https://player.vimeo.com/video/274570945?dnt=1&amp;app_id=122963" width="500" height="281" frameborder="0" allow="autoplay; fullscreen; picture-in-picture; clipboard-write"></iframe>
</div><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Dr. Lisa Cinar with North Memorial Clinic; Dr. Melanie Lind-Ayers with Park Nicollet Clinic; Amy Harris-Overby with Hennepin Healthcare; Stephanie Hogenson with Bridge to Benefits and Nicole Bailey with Hunger Solutions.</figcaption></figure>

Food Insecurity Referrals: What to do with Positive Screens

<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-vimeo wp-block-embed-vimeo wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
<iframe loading="lazy" title="Building Trust in the Somali Community" src="https://player.vimeo.com/video/286955763?dnt=1&amp;app_id=122963" width="500" height="281" frameborder="0" allow="autoplay; fullscreen; picture-in-picture; clipboard-write"></iframe>
</div><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Katherine Cairns and Drs. Aden Roble and Nusheen Ameenuddin</figcaption></figure>

Building Trust in the Somali Community

<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-vimeo wp-block-embed-vimeo wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
<iframe loading="lazy" title="School-Based Health in MN: An Opportunity for Growth" src="https://player.vimeo.com/video/298626410?dnt=1&amp;app_id=122963" width="500" height="281" frameborder="0" allow="autoplay; fullscreen; picture-in-picture; clipboard-write"></iframe>
</div><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Presented by Janna Gewirtz O&#8217;Brien, MD, FAAP; Shawna Hedlund, MPH; Gigi Chawla, MD, MHA; Barbara Kyle, RN, MPH</figcaption></figure>

School-Based Health in MN: An Opportunity for Growth

<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-vimeo wp-block-embed-vimeo wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
<iframe loading="lazy" title="Coping with Change and Resources" src="https://player.vimeo.com/video/468174365?dnt=1&amp;app_id=122963" width="500" height="281" frameborder="0" allow="autoplay; fullscreen; picture-in-picture; clipboard-write"></iframe>
</div><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Presented by Susan Nygaard, RN, BSN, PHN </figcaption></figure>

Coping with Change

Behavioral Health

Video Presentation

<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-vimeo wp-block-embed-vimeo wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
<iframe loading="lazy" title="Firearm Violence Prevention (Part 1)" src="https://player.vimeo.com/video/384863506?dnt=1&amp;app_id=122963" width="500" height="281" frameborder="0" allow="autoplay; fullscreen; picture-in-picture; clipboard-write"></iframe>
</div><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Presented by Gretchen Karstens, MD, FAAP, St. Luke’s Pediatric Associates in Duluth, MN; Andrew Kiragu, MD, FAAP, medical director of the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit at Hennepin Healthcare: Sheldon Berkowitz, MD, FAAP; MNAAP president-elect and pediatrician at Children’s Minnesota</figcaption></figure>



Objectives:



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>The prevalence of children living in homes with firearms as well as the prevalence of injuries and deaths</li>



<li>Understanding firearm basics and terminology</li>



<li>Addressing firearms safety as part of routine anticipatory guidance with children of all ages</li>



<li>Incorporating questions about the presence and availability of firearms into your patient history and counsel parents about safe storage</li>



<li>Identifying resources for more information and patient handouts</li>
</ul>

Firearm Violence Prevention: Counseling Parents about Safe Gun Storage Practices at the Practice Level (Part 1)

Child Safety

Minnesota Chapter of the American Academy of Pediatrics

Shriners Healthcare for Children-Twin Cities

Options Page

<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Get In Touch</h3>



Our staff is here to answer any questions you may have. Reach out to us and we will respond as quickly as possible. Get started by filling out our form below and a team member will be in touch shortly.

Contact

On behalf of the MN AAP Health Equity Workgroup, we are excited to present an opportunity to support local child health equity and anti-racism projects in Minnesota. The goal of this grant is to support local healthcare providers in their efforts to improve health equity for the youngest members of our Minnesota communities. We encourage pediatric healthcare providers and healthcare trainees to apply. Annually, we will award up to $5000 per awardee to support initiatives around the state. Awardees will have quarterly check-ins with a MN AAP chapter representative and will have the opportunity to share their projects at the chapter meeting or TCPU annual conference.



Please apply below for consideration by 11:59 pm March 1st, 2025. In future years we will aim to have applications completed by October.



Award decisions will be made no later than April 1st&nbsp; 2025. In future years we will aim to have applications approved by December. Please email hanna@mnaap.org with any questions. <a href="https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/5X78W36">Apply Online </a>



<a href="https://wp.mnaap.org/wp-lib/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/MN-AAP-Health-Equity-Grant-Application-2.docx" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Download Application &amp; Apply Via Email </a>

MNAAP Health Equity Grant

Casey Hokanson, BA, Zeinab Mohamud, BA, Janna Gewirtz O’Brien, MD, MPH



In Minnesota, nearly 6,000 youth experience homelessness each night. Trauma and marginalization are often causes of homelessness. Many have been harmed by systemic racism and identity-based oppression leading to stark disparities in the composition of youth experiencing homelessness (YEH) in Minnesota. 73% identify as BIPOC and 23% identify as LGBTQ+. Marginalization and oppression lead to health risks including trauma, injury, abuse, mental health risk, STIs, unplanned pregnancy, untreated medical conditions, substance use, and inadequate access to basic needs including housing, food, and healthcare access. Despite the many challenges YEH face, they display remarkable and inspiring resilience.



We would like to preface by emphasizing that housing is health. It is important for YEH’s basic needs to be met first before they access health. If you come into contact with a YEH who needs shelter, you can help them by bringing ysnmn.org to their attention. This resource that allows YEH to know which resources and shelters are in the community also comes as an app for easier access.



In our lab’s youth participatory action research, YEH identified barriers to navigating complex health systems. We offer some tips on how to overcome these barriers. Remember, although youth experiencing homelessness have a legal right to consent to their own healthcare, even as minors, when they are living apart from their legal guardian(s) and managing their own financial affairs, youth face many challenges accessing care. The last barrier encompasses supporting youth in owning their own healthcare. 



How can you as a healthcare provider do this?



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>Help them know their own medical conditions, medications, and allergies (use their phones, devices, or Health apps).</li>



<li>Encourage them to take pictures of their health insurance cards and vital documents so they have easier access to them.</li>



<li>Share employment opportunities, education and healthcare.</li>



<li>Know their healthcare team and how to reach them.</li>



<li>Ensure they have MyChart/electronic health record access.</li>



<li>Encourage regular checkups. Set up a follow-up before they leave the office or hospital.</li>



<li>Write down any questions or concerns they have between visits.</li>



<li>Help them understand their legal rights to accessing healthcare and shelter.</li>
</ul>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="387" src="https://wp.mnaap.org/wp-lib/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/Teal-Peach-Lilac-Modern-Playful-Productivity-Tips-Infographic-Instagram-Post-2-1024x387.png" alt="" class="wp-image-4577" srcset="https://wp.mnaap.org/wp-lib/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/Teal-Peach-Lilac-Modern-Playful-Productivity-Tips-Infographic-Instagram-Post-2-1024x387.png 1024w, https://wp.mnaap.org/wp-lib/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/Teal-Peach-Lilac-Modern-Playful-Productivity-Tips-Infographic-Instagram-Post-2-300x113.png 300w, https://wp.mnaap.org/wp-lib/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/Teal-Peach-Lilac-Modern-Playful-Productivity-Tips-Infographic-Instagram-Post-2-768x290.png 768w, https://wp.mnaap.org/wp-lib/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/Teal-Peach-Lilac-Modern-Playful-Productivity-Tips-Infographic-Instagram-Post-2-1536x581.png 1536w, https://wp.mnaap.org/wp-lib/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/Teal-Peach-Lilac-Modern-Playful-Productivity-Tips-Infographic-Instagram-Post-2.png 2000w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



As a healthcare provider, you are a leader in dismantling health inequities and forging positive relationships with youth. It takes a trauma-informed approach, cultural humility, and gentle patience to rebuild this bridge and trust between healthcare providers and youth experiencing homelessness.

Caring for Youth Experiencing Homelessness

Minnesota’s newborn screening panel is expanding with the addition of guanidinoacetate methyltransferase (GAMT) deficiency, Mucopolysaccharidosis Type II (MPS II), and Krabbe disease.



Following the recommendation of the Newborn Screening Advisory Committee, Minnesota Commissioner of Health Dr. Brooke Cunningham has approved these conditions for routine screening of newborns in the state. 



Commissioner Cunningham has directed the Newborn Screening program to initiate the necessary steps for implementing screening protocols for GAMT deficiency, MPS II, and Krabbe disease, underscoring the commitment to early detection and intervention for these rare genetic disorders.



For more information, visit: <a href="https://www.health.state.mn.us/people/newbornscreening/program/newbornscreeningpanel.html">https://www.health.state.mn.us/people/newbornscreening/program/newbornscreeningpanel.html</a>

Newborn Screening Panel Updates

Anti-Racism &amp; Health Equity



The Anti-racism and Health Equity workgroup is currently working on ways to connect with other state chapters who are doing work similar to ours, and networking with them to strengthen the goals we have.



We will also finalize work over the next few months with our YWCA equity consultant to review our chapter’s strategic planning for improved health equity in our chapter and across the state. Our next meeting is Monday, June 10, from 12:15 pm -1:00 pm.



If you are interested in joining the Anti-Racism &amp; Health Equity Work Group, email Jeff Bauer bauer@mnaap.org to be added to the group’s email list for upcoming meeting dates and activities.



Early Childhood



The Early Childhood Work Group has been meeting monthly and supporting lectures devoted to the topic of early childhood which are located on the AAP website. Our presenters have included Erin Bailey, Keriann Mahon, Andre Dukes, and Ariel Handevidt speaking on topics such as early relational health, the Northside Achievement Zone and the Children’s Cabinet. The work group is also tracking and supporting activities such as early literacy, the Early Childhood Family Education program, parent-child relational health, and infant mental health. 



Additionally, the work group’s recent activities include legislative tracking and advocacy. The primary early childhood initiatives this legislative session have been directed to supporting the changes and programs funded in the ‘23 budget session&#8211;with attention to thenestablishment of the new Executive Department of Children, Youth and Families.



We are hoping that other AAP fellows will join us in this work for the crucial birth to preschool children we care for. Please Contact Krish Subrahmanian at subrahm2003@gmail.com or Roger Sheldon at rogeugshe@gmail.com to join the group.

Work Group Updates | Spring 2024

Pat McKone, American Lung Association 



E-cigarettes are addicting a new generation to nicotine. Since 2014, e-cigarettes have been the #1 tobacco products used by youth. It’s a crisis of youth addiction that is a result of thousands of kid-friendly flavors and massive doses of nicotine.



The 2023 National Youth Tobacco Survey (NYTS) reported over 2.1 million kids used these devices in 2023. It is estimated more than 4,300 kids (under 18) try e-cigarettes daily.



Scope of the problem:



<ol class="wp-block-list">
<li>Many youth are using these products most days or every day, a sign they are becoming addicted. More than 70 percent of youth who use e-cigarettes in MN show signs of nicotine dependence.</li>



<li>Flavors are at the core of this problem. Close to 90% of youth use flavored products – fruit, candy, sweet, mint and menthol among the most popular. In Minnesota, one in seven 11th graders uses e-cigarettes, and 88 percent of those students use flavored e-cigarettes.</li>



<li>Disposable and menthol e-cigarettes are on the rise, two categories of products that were left behind under current federal regulation.</li>
</ol>



Resources for youth, parents and educators:



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>American Academy of Pediatrics &#8211; https://www.aap.org/en/patient-care/tobacco-control-and-prevention/e-cigarettes-and-vaping/</li>



<li>American Lung Association – www.lung.org </li>



<li>My Life My Quit – www. mylifemyquit.com </li>



<li>Truth Initiative – This is Quitting www.truthinitiative.org/our-top-issues/vaping-issue</li>



<li>Campaign for Tobacco Free Kids –www.tobaccofreekids.org</li>
</ul>

What’s New With Vaping?

<img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="size-medium wp-image-4566 alignleft" src="https://wp.mnaap.org/wp-lib/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/Headshot-300x300.jpeg" alt="" width="300" height="300" srcset="https://wp.mnaap.org/wp-lib/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/Headshot-300x300.jpeg 300w, https://wp.mnaap.org/wp-lib/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/Headshot-150x150.jpeg 150w, https://wp.mnaap.org/wp-lib/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/Headshot.jpeg 500w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" />Please welcome Hanna Jorgenson as our new Communications Manager!
Hanna comes to us with a wealth of marketing and communications experience in both the non-profit sector and the medical device industry. With a genuine passion for the mission of the American Academy of Pediatrics, she brings a unique blend of professional expertise and personal dedication to the table.
Having navigated the challenges of childhood cancer firsthand, she is intimately acquainted with the critical importance of our mission. Diagnosed with osteosarcoma at the age of 16, and later with Li-Fraumeni syndrome, a cancer predisposition syndrome, she understands the significance of early intervention and advocacy for young patients’ health.
Driven by a deep-seated commitment to improving the lives of young people, she has dedicated considerable time and energy to serving on various non-profit boards and volunteering with organizations focused on pediatric health and well-being. With boundless enthusiasm and a steadfast dedication to our cause, Hanna is poised to lead our communications efforts with creativity, compassion, and purpose!
You can reach Hanna at hanna@mnaap.org.

Welcome, Hanna!

<img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="wp-image-4563 alignleft" src="https://wp.mnaap.org/wp-lib/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/Chad-Fahning-300x300.jpg" alt="" width="213" height="213" srcset="https://wp.mnaap.org/wp-lib/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/Chad-Fahning-300x300.jpg 300w, https://wp.mnaap.org/wp-lib/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/Chad-Fahning-150x150.jpg 150w, https://wp.mnaap.org/wp-lib/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/Chad-Fahning.jpg 482w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 213px) 100vw, 213px" />Over 130 pediatricians, residents, and medical students flooded the hallways of the Capitol on March 13, as part of Pediatricians’ Day at the Capitol. Attendees heard from guest legislators at a midday program before embarking out to meet with their own legislators to discuss policy proposals that prioritize the health, safety, and wellness of kids.
The number of active bills MNAAP is fewer than the unprecedented plethora of MNAAP-backed bills passed in 2023. Nonetheless, if they find their way through the finish line, the large handful of policies championed by pediatricians this session will do innumerable good for the next generation of Minnesotans. Chiefly among these policies is legislation to allow childcare centers to require that participants meet the state’s vaccination requirements, to remedy the declining rate of childhood vaccinations witnessed nationwide. Pediatricians also put their stamp of approval on a bill to establish health standards in school curriculum statewide and legislation introducing a childcare tax credit, which would kick in next year. Additionally, legislation to reduce death and injury from unsecured firearms through safe storage requirements is making its way through pivotal Senate committees, despite being shunned from such committees last session. Lastly, MNAAP is supporting legislation to prohibit prior authorization for substance-use disorder treatment, outpatient mental health treatment, pediatric hospice care, and treatment for neonatal abstinence syndrome, as well as a proposed insurance mandate to provide coverage for gender-affirming care, additional postpartum care, and in vitro fertilization (IVF), among others.
These efforts are designed to improve access to patient care and are all the table as we near the end of the legislative session. 2024 is a non-budget year, so there is no requirement for lawmakers to pass anything this year (odd-year sessions carry a constitutional requirement to pass a balanced state budget). Nonetheless, legislative leadership struck a supplemental budget agreement with the Governor to add $477.5 million to the 2024-2025 biennial budget and another $62.7 million for the next fiscal biennium. $34 million of that is earmarked for additional state investment for children and families. The targets were agreed to after Minnesota Management and Budget (MMB) announced a $3.7 billion state budget surplus, with the caveat that state spending is projected to exceed revenues by $1.5 billion in the years ahead. MMB cited long- term spending increases as the chief cause of the projected deficit. The 2024-2025 budget deal passed last year saw a $20 billion increase in the total state budget, including a record $1.2 billion in new early childhood investments and over $2 billion in additional K-12 spending.
Only weeks remain for legislators to decide what to include in larger omnibus packages. Given the limited spending targets, many efforts with a fiscal impact will not survive the final days. The legislature is required to adjourn sine die no later than May 20, which will officially mark the end of the 2023- 2024 biennium. Even if nothing were to pass before then – an extremely unlikely prophecy – the 93rd legislature will be remembered as one of the most influential and impactful ones in recent memory.
In the interim, Minnesotans will indicate their approval or disapproval of legislative decision-making after two years of unilateral DFL control. Every seat in the Minnesota House of Representatives, or 2/3 of the total legislature, will be up for election on November 5 and the 94th legislature will convene thereafter in January.

2024 Legislative Session: Spring Update

<img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="wp-image-4559 alignleft" src="https://wp.mnaap.org/wp-lib/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/Screenshot-2024-05-23-at-9.31.52 AM-208x300.png" alt="" width="193" height="278" srcset="https://wp.mnaap.org/wp-lib/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/Screenshot-2024-05-23-at-9.31.52 AM-208x300.png 208w, https://wp.mnaap.org/wp-lib/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/Screenshot-2024-05-23-at-9.31.52 AM.png 225w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 193px) 100vw, 193px" />I recently read an article in the New York Times about an account on X (formerly known as Twitter) where a child policy consultant, with a background in early childhood, comments about child development. The account posts videos from public social media accounts with commentary on developmental milestones as well as the fascinating learning that babies and young children are doing every day. From language skills to social connections to the importance of play (instead of screens), the videos highlight what every pediatrician knows-that kids are amazing!


The videos shared in the article are so good in so many ways. Equally important is the commentary about what skills you can nurture or just to recognize your child’s unique ability to learn by curiosity and how much is gained from human-to-human connection.



The videos are such good examples of everyday interactions. Many of them capture the exact moment of realization; the second the child accomplishes the “thing”, whether reciprocal verbalization, overcoming their fear of jumping into water or getting the strawberry piece onto the spoon and into their mouths.



As a bonus, the videos show experiences that don’t require fancy educational toys. Many of the videos are of parents/grandparents/aunties/uncles spending time with a baby or young child talking, singing or reading to them. I’m sure you experience and probably model these strengths for families every day in your offices. The article, X account and accompanying videos remind me, yet again, of the tremendous privilege and joy it is to work with children and their families. The trust and relationships that each of us builds, over many years, is what makes the practice of pediatrics the best.



<a href="https://x.com/DanWuori/status/1764282393634988091">Watch the video here. </a>

Word from the President: Eileen Crespo, MD, FAAP

<div class="wp-block-columns is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-1 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex">
<div class="wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow">
<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="770" height="1020" src="https://wp.mnaap.org/wp-lib/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/Screenshot-2024-05-23-at-9.12.31 AM-1.png" alt="" class="wp-image-4553" srcset="https://wp.mnaap.org/wp-lib/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/Screenshot-2024-05-23-at-9.12.31 AM-1.png 770w, https://wp.mnaap.org/wp-lib/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/Screenshot-2024-05-23-at-9.12.31 AM-1-226x300.png 226w, https://wp.mnaap.org/wp-lib/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/Screenshot-2024-05-23-at-9.12.31 AM-1-768x1017.png 768w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 770px) 100vw, 770px" /></figure>
</div>



<div class="wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow">
<a href="https://wp.mnaap.org/wp-lib/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Final-Spring-2024.pdf">Spring 2024 Minnesota Pediatrician PD</a><a href="https://wp.mnaap.org/wp-lib/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Final-Spring-2024.pdf">F</a>



<a href="https://wp.mnaap.org/word-from-the-president-eileen-crespo-md-faap-5/">Word from the President: Eileen Crespo, MD, FAAP</a>



<a href="https://wp.mnaap.org/2024-legislative-session-spring-update/">2024 Legislative Session: Spring Update</a>



<a href="https://wp.mnaap.org/welcome-hanna/">Welcome, Hanna</a>



<a href="https://wp.mnaap.org/whats-new-with-vaping/">What&#8217;s New With Vaping</a>



<a href="https://wp.mnaap.org/work-group-updates-spring-2024/">Work Group Updates </a>



<a href="https://wp.mnaap.org/newborn-screening-panel-updates/">Newborn Screening Updates </a>



<a href="https://wp.mnaap.org/wp-lib/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/Measles-One-Pager-4.22.24.pdf">Think Measles </a>



<a href="https://wp.mnaap.org/caring-for-youth-experiencing-homelessness/">Caring for Youth Homelessness</a>
</div>
</div>

Spring 2024 Minnesota Pediatrician

Physicians and clinic staff interested in tracking viral respiratory illness trends this season, can make use of a new webpage created to offer an improved overview.
MDH launched the <a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001EiCtSR1KI9vf9k8PnFzcGH-yIaV1dABz_R1L6N7qyc6TxDbKD4DpcCJy1wKGryUa7R-Wup8lh40knGILLsONMGEeIMcu7EJmeAXTh_Co6jUfTVTddoxqXqjCQmf4AOwG7pXAsz9CTNMtaLwfWl3xO8zYV_esaOY6sY4Ki-8IyqPRm5En_RDcq-vsP5V76ojE0Ku7zMpVAnrLMBvKIwYyyg==&amp;c=1OrCP1x5BWTxwVBQ9Bo51A-ppVR1IjAvnmThCpBX7E4rpXimK2utFw==&amp;ch=W0l5HrO34widOpi7UWznUCzb-OaSUzcjHaXOkySf-BBeiROZTZVXdA==" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f%3D001EiCtSR1KI9vf9k8PnFzcGH-yIaV1dABz_R1L6N7qyc6TxDbKD4DpcCJy1wKGryUa7R-Wup8lh40knGILLsONMGEeIMcu7EJmeAXTh_Co6jUfTVTddoxqXqjCQmf4AOwG7pXAsz9CTNMtaLwfWl3xO8zYV_esaOY6sY4Ki-8IyqPRm5En_RDcq-vsP5V76ojE0Ku7zMpVAnrLMBvKIwYyyg%3D%3D%26c%3D1OrCP1x5BWTxwVBQ9Bo51A-ppVR1IjAvnmThCpBX7E4rpXimK2utFw%3D%3D%26ch%3DW0l5HrO34widOpi7UWznUCzb-OaSUzcjHaXOkySf-BBeiROZTZVXdA%3D%3D&amp;source=gmail&amp;ust=1699541723208000&amp;usg=AOvVaw1K3DdIZGgorNyC24pH_lGO">Viral Respiratory Illness in Minnesota (Data &amp; Statistics) </a>page as a one-stop shop for viral respiratory disease data. The page currently has interactive data on hospitalizations due to COVID-19, influenza, and RSV for the seven-county metropolitan area (among children and adults). In the coming weeks and months, MDH will add data to provide more information on circulating viral respiratory diseases.
The full <a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001EiCtSR1KI9vf9k8PnFzcGH-yIaV1dABz_R1L6N7qyc6TxDbKD4DpcCJy1wKGryUa470AkWsCye1ouQoujjbTFJRBGX7P1A5GTrRhK2xI7rBB1bYEmu42iDyLTcmH0r5yG8DhFhgT_JPLn2o7jNnF7TwV3XWPByihyaXWdjX5cCDhgTof-gdGYnxzdf-pmnH1Kj2_eQOngoGufAq0MJB1Z2Y1CK45KArreUEMuu4BWkSyU1Fu1ITIa3rQ8EumOG3ilbMvr4Md20ka8oQ1C0EJ2z0kqt3YYLgKIxL28blC_i2Q_5iIkNXGMVXvRPfE-q2lWMWRV7nZKkR77C3wEjvZCfcdP81W8g_3VMi11XSFDN-mSTHREzE8Tp1GfnRBhYVht6zg8nh5uMZIrUtBppktZYVyyEYg25BkTdGBf1CSF0Jg6E5Qkb-bdj6AsfhF59KYufLW_rWNpCKzuPtsQmMZUNwiYjmwZhNoaFNDueAIPJznprPULObXLUY8E826qqe6nRrZiLPRNQq9F7d4iXW4pPYLk5zoy0ZB-a6WGKE5ChalsWWjAqJcgZ7qd4R-Y-8d8VIREUNWftsbnV5BQf-USuayy2nkL5L0Yo9X5wNDHIhJkGFlwqa7LX-WorBFgAya&amp;c=1OrCP1x5BWTxwVBQ9Bo51A-ppVR1IjAvnmThCpBX7E4rpXimK2utFw==&amp;ch=W0l5HrO34widOpi7UWznUCzb-OaSUzcjHaXOkySf-BBeiROZTZVXdA==" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f%3D001EiCtSR1KI9vf9k8PnFzcGH-yIaV1dABz_R1L6N7qyc6TxDbKD4DpcCJy1wKGryUa470AkWsCye1ouQoujjbTFJRBGX7P1A5GTrRhK2xI7rBB1bYEmu42iDyLTcmH0r5yG8DhFhgT_JPLn2o7jNnF7TwV3XWPByihyaXWdjX5cCDhgTof-gdGYnxzdf-pmnH1Kj2_eQOngoGufAq0MJB1Z2Y1CK45KArreUEMuu4BWkSyU1Fu1ITIa3rQ8EumOG3ilbMvr4Md20ka8oQ1C0EJ2z0kqt3YYLgKIxL28blC_i2Q_5iIkNXGMVXvRPfE-q2lWMWRV7nZKkR77C3wEjvZCfcdP81W8g_3VMi11XSFDN-mSTHREzE8Tp1GfnRBhYVht6zg8nh5uMZIrUtBppktZYVyyEYg25BkTdGBf1CSF0Jg6E5Qkb-bdj6AsfhF59KYufLW_rWNpCKzuPtsQmMZUNwiYjmwZhNoaFNDueAIPJznprPULObXLUY8E826qqe6nRrZiLPRNQq9F7d4iXW4pPYLk5zoy0ZB-a6WGKE5ChalsWWjAqJcgZ7qd4R-Y-8d8VIREUNWftsbnV5BQf-USuayy2nkL5L0Yo9X5wNDHIhJkGFlwqa7LX-WorBFgAya%26c%3D1OrCP1x5BWTxwVBQ9Bo51A-ppVR1IjAvnmThCpBX7E4rpXimK2utFw%3D%3D%26ch%3DW0l5HrO34widOpi7UWznUCzb-OaSUzcjHaXOkySf-BBeiROZTZVXdA%3D%3D&amp;source=gmail&amp;ust=1699541723208000&amp;usg=AOvVaw3unyARvPcLJkHFCNB7nlWr">Weekly Influenza &amp; Respiratory Activity: Statistics</a> report (containing influenza and RSV trends) and the <a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001EiCtSR1KI9vf9k8PnFzcGH-yIaV1dABz_R1L6N7qyc6TxDbKD4DpcCJy1wKGryUasw_g8RFpAZNR9-8eH94yS8CZ6xh2X8BTOyCVlZdyRBBRrXwHLibLl2TSHSiVINjw4TGibQiTZd8NNdXTYL5KOjURU9nZVaE1nHTRodDwf9p1SSR4-HKKY_fnt9ARzcimJOb3-xFrU6wuKM7veRBBQw==&amp;c=1OrCP1x5BWTxwVBQ9Bo51A-ppVR1IjAvnmThCpBX7E4rpXimK2utFw==&amp;ch=W0l5HrO34widOpi7UWznUCzb-OaSUzcjHaXOkySf-BBeiROZTZVXdA==" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f%3D001EiCtSR1KI9vf9k8PnFzcGH-yIaV1dABz_R1L6N7qyc6TxDbKD4DpcCJy1wKGryUasw_g8RFpAZNR9-8eH94yS8CZ6xh2X8BTOyCVlZdyRBBRrXwHLibLl2TSHSiVINjw4TGibQiTZd8NNdXTYL5KOjURU9nZVaE1nHTRodDwf9p1SSR4-HKKY_fnt9ARzcimJOb3-xFrU6wuKM7veRBBQw%3D%3D%26c%3D1OrCP1x5BWTxwVBQ9Bo51A-ppVR1IjAvnmThCpBX7E4rpXimK2utFw%3D%3D%26ch%3DW0l5HrO34widOpi7UWznUCzb-OaSUzcjHaXOkySf-BBeiROZTZVXdA%3D%3D&amp;source=gmail&amp;ust=1699541723208000&amp;usg=AOvVaw1OK0gmRFiz3zhrMxEJ_Z-x">COVID-19 Situation Update</a> will continue to be updated weekly and there will be a link to those sites from the new page. Each page will be updated weekly on Thursday at 11 a.m.
If you would like to receive email reminders when the pages are updated, subscribe to <a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001EiCtSR1KI9vf9k8PnFzcGH-yIaV1dABz_R1L6N7qyc6TxDbKD4DpcCJy1wKGryUaywbqSkSxtfwUHk8U7fDyPg51l16zEuIiMILg1_mbcwXoIhsZMtZmD6OQGTnzF9y-FljotHDdyDQNdpd0vpxOWvXDpryFH8iA8ookyM4N0wRHwq87NKHrrPtomDYPW-_kCC3KIU06N_w2_u-j0D00SRMV_A4UObAuq20icT1-TJ0=&amp;c=1OrCP1x5BWTxwVBQ9Bo51A-ppVR1IjAvnmThCpBX7E4rpXimK2utFw==&amp;ch=W0l5HrO34widOpi7UWznUCzb-OaSUzcjHaXOkySf-BBeiROZTZVXdA==" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f%3D001EiCtSR1KI9vf9k8PnFzcGH-yIaV1dABz_R1L6N7qyc6TxDbKD4DpcCJy1wKGryUaywbqSkSxtfwUHk8U7fDyPg51l16zEuIiMILg1_mbcwXoIhsZMtZmD6OQGTnzF9y-FljotHDdyDQNdpd0vpxOWvXDpryFH8iA8ookyM4N0wRHwq87NKHrrPtomDYPW-_kCC3KIU06N_w2_u-j0D00SRMV_A4UObAuq20icT1-TJ0%3D%26c%3D1OrCP1x5BWTxwVBQ9Bo51A-ppVR1IjAvnmThCpBX7E4rpXimK2utFw%3D%3D%26ch%3DW0l5HrO34widOpi7UWznUCzb-OaSUzcjHaXOkySf-BBeiROZTZVXdA%3D%3D&amp;source=gmail&amp;ust=1699541723208000&amp;usg=AOvVaw3_NkFTtj2aJaLh8VRu2NbL">Respiratory Illness Activity in Minnesota</a><a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001EiCtSR1KI9vf9k8PnFzcGH-yIaV1dABz_R1L6N7qyc6TxDbKD4DpcCJy1wKGryUaywbqSkSxtfwUHk8U7fDyPg51l16zEuIiMILg1_mbcwXoIhsZMtZmD6OQGTnzF9y-FljotHDdyDQNdpd0vpxOWvXDpryFH8iA8ookyM4N0wRHwq87NKHrrPtomDYPW-_kCC3KIU06N_w2_u-j0D00SRMV_A4UObAuq20icT1-TJ0=&amp;c=1OrCP1x5BWTxwVBQ9Bo51A-ppVR1IjAvnmThCpBX7E4rpXimK2utFw==&amp;ch=W0l5HrO34widOpi7UWznUCzb-OaSUzcjHaXOkySf-BBeiROZTZVXdA==" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f%3D001EiCtSR1KI9vf9k8PnFzcGH-yIaV1dABz_R1L6N7qyc6TxDbKD4DpcCJy1wKGryUaywbqSkSxtfwUHk8U7fDyPg51l16zEuIiMILg1_mbcwXoIhsZMtZmD6OQGTnzF9y-FljotHDdyDQNdpd0vpxOWvXDpryFH8iA8ookyM4N0wRHwq87NKHrrPtomDYPW-_kCC3KIU06N_w2_u-j0D00SRMV_A4UObAuq20icT1-TJ0%3D%26c%3D1OrCP1x5BWTxwVBQ9Bo51A-ppVR1IjAvnmThCpBX7E4rpXimK2utFw%3D%3D%26ch%3DW0l5HrO34widOpi7UWznUCzb-OaSUzcjHaXOkySf-BBeiROZTZVXdA%3D%3D&amp;source=gmail&amp;ust=1699541723208000&amp;usg=AOvVaw3_NkFTtj2aJaLh8VRu2NbL">.</a>

Webpage Provides One-Stop Look at Viral Respiratory Disease Data

The Minnesota Department of Health Immunization Program shared the following letter with MNAAP in an effort to keep pediatricians up-to-date on the status of nirsevimab supplies:
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) alerted the Minnesota Department of  Health (MDH) that the supply of nirsevimab cannot keep up with demand. Please review MDH’s Health Alert Network (HAN) for background information and interim CDC recommendations that apply to healthcare settings with limited nirsevimab availability during the 2023–2024 RSV season <a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001EiCtSR1KI9vf9k8PnFzcGH-yIaV1dABz_R1L6N7qyc6TxDbKD4DpcCJy1wKGryUaVd2y4uH-KcLDiFp9B9gQe1jaRk1TTTnmtaM3Ng2Z_ROA2BOohII6Hh5FpMLF9SiWlQyPY-gHGC_KvNVeQMXXNcJxf4XvfCIktMub2hnsZW1fPB0Cfj0bnzy4nSweXGZqqMpnXyqRGG8OX1S_ZI_40g==&amp;c=1OrCP1x5BWTxwVBQ9Bo51A-ppVR1IjAvnmThCpBX7E4rpXimK2utFw==&amp;ch=W0l5HrO34widOpi7UWznUCzb-OaSUzcjHaXOkySf-BBeiROZTZVXdA==" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f%3D001EiCtSR1KI9vf9k8PnFzcGH-yIaV1dABz_R1L6N7qyc6TxDbKD4DpcCJy1wKGryUaVd2y4uH-KcLDiFp9B9gQe1jaRk1TTTnmtaM3Ng2Z_ROA2BOohII6Hh5FpMLF9SiWlQyPY-gHGC_KvNVeQMXXNcJxf4XvfCIktMub2hnsZW1fPB0Cfj0bnzy4nSweXGZqqMpnXyqRGG8OX1S_ZI_40g%3D%3D%26c%3D1OrCP1x5BWTxwVBQ9Bo51A-ppVR1IjAvnmThCpBX7E4rpXimK2utFw%3D%3D%26ch%3DW0l5HrO34widOpi7UWznUCzb-OaSUzcjHaXOkySf-BBeiROZTZVXdA%3D%3D&amp;source=gmail&amp;ust=1699541723207000&amp;usg=AOvVaw2jI_5RWzLGmjbuvgLuq7kI">Health Advisory: Nirsevimab for RSV Prevention &#8211; Supply Issues (state.mn.us). </a>
Background
There are now two available products to protect infants from severe lower respiratory tract  infection caused by the respiratory syncytial virus (RSV):
• RSVpreF (vaccine) recommended for pregnant people who are 32 through 36 weeks  gestation during September through January. Abrysvo is the only approved product for  pregnant people.
• Nirsevimab (monoclonal antibody) recommended for all infants aged &lt;8 months born  during or entering their first RSV season and for some infants and children 8-19 months of age at increased risk of severe disease entering their second season.
Either product, but not both, can be chosen as a protection strategy. The Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) has not made a preference on either option.
Providers who care for pregnant persons should discuss the benefits and risks of both options,  preferably before the pregnant person reaches 32 weeks gestation. CDC’s <a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001EiCtSR1KI9vf9k8PnFzcGH-yIaV1dABz_R1L6N7qyc6TxDbKD4DpcCJy1wKGryUauxmMPRtDpDh25X_84zCk9ooIbF5v-sWsB0Y3z1FQ76s0w3X-qEBMgjSqleDYSOY1iy5kb0ySdi4wkZEybqZCjp1pqKQiafrsKYcPLK_ZzVIsXNMpMY08ssDmSiSYRlI5AJe2sdIR-tG-UFuN8SpNJk_jJH6H1rYTecae1t4vZk0=&amp;c=1OrCP1x5BWTxwVBQ9Bo51A-ppVR1IjAvnmThCpBX7E4rpXimK2utFw==&amp;ch=W0l5HrO34widOpi7UWznUCzb-OaSUzcjHaXOkySf-BBeiROZTZVXdA==" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f%3D001EiCtSR1KI9vf9k8PnFzcGH-yIaV1dABz_R1L6N7qyc6TxDbKD4DpcCJy1wKGryUauxmMPRtDpDh25X_84zCk9ooIbF5v-sWsB0Y3z1FQ76s0w3X-qEBMgjSqleDYSOY1iy5kb0ySdi4wkZEybqZCjp1pqKQiafrsKYcPLK_ZzVIsXNMpMY08ssDmSiSYRlI5AJe2sdIR-tG-UFuN8SpNJk_jJH6H1rYTecae1t4vZk0%3D%26c%3D1OrCP1x5BWTxwVBQ9Bo51A-ppVR1IjAvnmThCpBX7E4rpXimK2utFw%3D%3D%26ch%3DW0l5HrO34widOpi7UWznUCzb-OaSUzcjHaXOkySf-BBeiROZTZVXdA%3D%3D&amp;source=gmail&amp;ust=1699541723208000&amp;usg=AOvVaw3d47rc-9K9etoZwi49WjZ6">Options for Infant  RSV Prevention At-a-Glance</a> may be helpful. Information on the temporary shortage of nirsevimab should be considered when determining which product is best to protect the infant.
Under the Affordable Care Act, commercial payors have one year from ACIP recommendation to cover the vaccine for their members. This means your patients will need to check with their insurance to see if they have coverage for RSVpreF as the product was just recommended for use in September. Minnesota Health Care Programs (MHCPs) currently cover the product for pregnant people on their plans.
To support timely and accurate decision-making at the time of birth, please document vaccine administration or refusal in the pregnant person’s chart. If RSVpreF is administered to the pregnant person, please enter that dose into the Minnesota Immunization Information Connection (MIIC) in a timely manner. The MIIC forecaster/scheduler cannot predict or recommend the RSV vaccine for pregnant people because MIIC cannot track pregnancy status.
CDC recommends that all infants are protected against RSV through either maternal vaccination with RSVpreF or infant immunization with nirsevimab. Refer to the current <a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001EiCtSR1KI9vf9k8PnFzcGH-yIaV1dABz_R1L6N7qyc6TxDbKD4DpcCJy1wKGryUaYgg6lq9_NsXlZpl8um0dty8cn-qjgAql5DI1aCvZHOfBLML7g1gCNkE1yHrU7qZKnGPWWag3wSFOkhNthP1qM-xJ3TFEXIGby_7rLba-D4RaVTWaKWo01BO3s2HiFO8cD5tv2Q98TiwMyCfPaBMaGw==&amp;c=1OrCP1x5BWTxwVBQ9Bo51A-ppVR1IjAvnmThCpBX7E4rpXimK2utFw==&amp;ch=W0l5HrO34widOpi7UWznUCzb-OaSUzcjHaXOkySf-BBeiROZTZVXdA==" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f%3D001EiCtSR1KI9vf9k8PnFzcGH-yIaV1dABz_R1L6N7qyc6TxDbKD4DpcCJy1wKGryUaYgg6lq9_NsXlZpl8um0dty8cn-qjgAql5DI1aCvZHOfBLML7g1gCNkE1yHrU7qZKnGPWWag3wSFOkhNthP1qM-xJ3TFEXIGby_7rLba-D4RaVTWaKWo01BO3s2HiFO8cD5tv2Q98TiwMyCfPaBMaGw%3D%3D%26c%3D1OrCP1x5BWTxwVBQ9Bo51A-ppVR1IjAvnmThCpBX7E4rpXimK2utFw%3D%3D%26ch%3DW0l5HrO34widOpi7UWznUCzb-OaSUzcjHaXOkySf-BBeiROZTZVXdA%3D%3D&amp;source=gmail&amp;ust=1699541723208000&amp;usg=AOvVaw1CKRb2JA_RVySaodSTgf3J">RSV ACIP Vaccine  Recommendations</a> for details.

MDH Shares Information Regarding Nirsevimab Supply

Minnesota Department of Human Services (DHS) is seeking applications from new members for the EIDBI advisory group, which advises DHS on a health benefit for people younger than 21 years old with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and related conditions.
Advisory group terms are two years and begin in January 2024. The EIDBI advisory group holds quarterly virtual meetings. The advisory group will have openings for members in January 2024, including one opening for a physician or developmental pediatrician.
Refer to <a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001Sh6_atdxglG5B9JP7c1M3ZFDWHovOYHhTyDGcZSiUhKqXpxYgLntigej8WteVEiqRoDSmZN1YBnkVJfkWaDgFzrjA36nf0jHTR0Ba21Si2v3nCH3_sSXcDt9N91300UYJ75BuVSWV8Ce-wwAR_d8GsDvZkszo0gUd9mTEsfUY-G52NRPdLq1y980IbJDqzqCGqyTa9Qrdn-lSgxwYK6EM7KJ9Y3sBv1gmxWzMkZFEiZI4gSMsWmAhvrs0LLPfk2URX9lXMg7PcotyQUheAwWQoEZGmYDX6jv2YVUIlLv0uzryWVtZcdOyVC5pQEbtuwmW1lpGYmdF42NVN92ttJAtWF6FkCj3-B9ORJCwnFcuhk-3tZTI7xV6TeAE3D253XYjcIx3ByaFSusOg1NfIdKzyM3wINhCMs0p3WvuMT7AzMVAbS2AsLfw7hMm-e-lYGxCichMPCxqW6RiZUVYlKbwzMKNHXfd3rSvpfxQic7hKJQCO8pfc_pDgBszW58bqglhbJGb3B_cCPRPXckpbp3l01hWQORkxpHCqaTmRnq-hoU-PXO-v0sWLdmnUPoFld7avvEGHS_IVH6e6TqtqdHLqca9rhGWFuTISrhCP-D7wGbazOEJ0Wp8CTuhWOmguLBKHhlWi3ok1M=&amp;c=spcFgfr7o-ko2MighpvUxu2LV39Aopy6AYFS9J6lqI545fQlFxxRpQ==&amp;ch=34Fut_4e2HlasK6IVyO6RZ5Xxsd6V5ntr07mGaeSVtUXeAutrLwfjA==" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f%3D001Sh6_atdxglG5B9JP7c1M3ZFDWHovOYHhTyDGcZSiUhKqXpxYgLntigej8WteVEiqRoDSmZN1YBnkVJfkWaDgFzrjA36nf0jHTR0Ba21Si2v3nCH3_sSXcDt9N91300UYJ75BuVSWV8Ce-wwAR_d8GsDvZkszo0gUd9mTEsfUY-G52NRPdLq1y980IbJDqzqCGqyTa9Qrdn-lSgxwYK6EM7KJ9Y3sBv1gmxWzMkZFEiZI4gSMsWmAhvrs0LLPfk2URX9lXMg7PcotyQUheAwWQoEZGmYDX6jv2YVUIlLv0uzryWVtZcdOyVC5pQEbtuwmW1lpGYmdF42NVN92ttJAtWF6FkCj3-B9ORJCwnFcuhk-3tZTI7xV6TeAE3D253XYjcIx3ByaFSusOg1NfIdKzyM3wINhCMs0p3WvuMT7AzMVAbS2AsLfw7hMm-e-lYGxCichMPCxqW6RiZUVYlKbwzMKNHXfd3rSvpfxQic7hKJQCO8pfc_pDgBszW58bqglhbJGb3B_cCPRPXckpbp3l01hWQORkxpHCqaTmRnq-hoU-PXO-v0sWLdmnUPoFld7avvEGHS_IVH6e6TqtqdHLqca9rhGWFuTISrhCP-D7wGbazOEJ0Wp8CTuhWOmguLBKHhlWi3ok1M%3D%26c%3DspcFgfr7o-ko2MighpvUxu2LV39Aopy6AYFS9J6lqI545fQlFxxRpQ%3D%3D%26ch%3D34Fut_4e2HlasK6IVyO6RZ5Xxsd6V5ntr07mGaeSVtUXeAutrLwfjA%3D%3D&amp;source=gmail&amp;ust=1698157358438000&amp;usg=AOvVaw2IgC08csJSjP5mGpRCpBTI">EIDBI benefit</a> or <a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001Sh6_atdxglG5B9JP7c1M3ZFDWHovOYHhTyDGcZSiUhKqXpxYgLntigej8WteVEiqJBEZaoQvnThb5TKVg5eRBrVxk2ykMMKQbwV1fi1Pv0zBOrnpZGtwjrdPB_1fNh1lMiHKYw3E7FcAMOha5g8EMFdf_oz5xUVTm0K3sOnhSO0dVz_zUa3ml8IqQhok6awnLok-GAvY5H3ToarrKdJoV7BISgznDVSFllBkys1x9QEDj4tDeadqm-sx4O-S5bzN6-n7e0Ft0X_bsJGtcAVHL7rqucXWPJWohOchOztIL83lPCpqApXuYNMk_4o_6z7ItalfU0mhmiaTKV8a9fXhs9K_pyJFdR41_tk0vBzwNxSvcbN839tVb-Tu9upkBLNPDw8Doc-TNBV67JshcPEZbjHUEMRuP5J7blPmWEf5hp7NxrYpCIPXsez3k3JKSBWUGfQY2ZS6Hb-mV1ENHoNfLOOFFHx5kwA_YOF4eWFUkOt6V7_RM5KMC7V3cQ1IyLgiLUYcpQndoqWVXUO9sfqrhzNCjhgjTGBTlw3Yv8rYf0y-KLN3BAuZsoewG0El89np8fYbO9vzu73Km7yLucny_z5PlnDpTMndFWzZd0XfvIzaM9-R9gzXI7q0tzbfyvLhbOM8hN_SU2dHjpoMvzR4NO8eZJk0fPo5&amp;c=spcFgfr7o-ko2MighpvUxu2LV39Aopy6AYFS9J6lqI545fQlFxxRpQ==&amp;ch=34Fut_4e2HlasK6IVyO6RZ5Xxsd6V5ntr07mGaeSVtUXeAutrLwfjA==" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f%3D001Sh6_atdxglG5B9JP7c1M3ZFDWHovOYHhTyDGcZSiUhKqXpxYgLntigej8WteVEiqJBEZaoQvnThb5TKVg5eRBrVxk2ykMMKQbwV1fi1Pv0zBOrnpZGtwjrdPB_1fNh1lMiHKYw3E7FcAMOha5g8EMFdf_oz5xUVTm0K3sOnhSO0dVz_zUa3ml8IqQhok6awnLok-GAvY5H3ToarrKdJoV7BISgznDVSFllBkys1x9QEDj4tDeadqm-sx4O-S5bzN6-n7e0Ft0X_bsJGtcAVHL7rqucXWPJWohOchOztIL83lPCpqApXuYNMk_4o_6z7ItalfU0mhmiaTKV8a9fXhs9K_pyJFdR41_tk0vBzwNxSvcbN839tVb-Tu9upkBLNPDw8Doc-TNBV67JshcPEZbjHUEMRuP5J7blPmWEf5hp7NxrYpCIPXsez3k3JKSBWUGfQY2ZS6Hb-mV1ENHoNfLOOFFHx5kwA_YOF4eWFUkOt6V7_RM5KMC7V3cQ1IyLgiLUYcpQndoqWVXUO9sfqrhzNCjhgjTGBTlw3Yv8rYf0y-KLN3BAuZsoewG0El89np8fYbO9vzu73Km7yLucny_z5PlnDpTMndFWzZd0XfvIzaM9-R9gzXI7q0tzbfyvLhbOM8hN_SU2dHjpoMvzR4NO8eZJk0fPo5%26c%3DspcFgfr7o-ko2MighpvUxu2LV39Aopy6AYFS9J6lqI545fQlFxxRpQ%3D%3D%26ch%3D34Fut_4e2HlasK6IVyO6RZ5Xxsd6V5ntr07mGaeSVtUXeAutrLwfjA%3D%3D&amp;source=gmail&amp;ust=1698157358438000&amp;usg=AOvVaw3NNe06r9jmWhZeNcLOCiym">EIDBI advisory group</a> webpages for more information about EIDBI or the advisory group.
Submit your application between now and Nov. 8, 2023, through the <a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001Sh6_atdxglG5B9JP7c1M3ZFDWHovOYHhTyDGcZSiUhKqXpxYgLntigej8WteVEiqlS-Yy3bLc5HH2Pr98VROGnl8iUcmjlu5QWlD5Y3uXKZex6B_aWez0I8_kesiJ38tvuZkeLeuG71UaEWyd76ZOf1hG970lArU58na_GIANX5tFi2HmhvJq9cfplViqMM9OVxcFwOyZYJGNweLnqXPG8dX0pSMf8MdaFpyRqf6ozN_kf-_yFY2_WH9JDwgU8NzBodE6J1qPtDSLB-SFgC0CgY9OJvb4H8iAmPHJrXUvCe-IK-fjMQ28DqsTUHUUDoMXSR707EMmWtavscaNsg5SZduxPd2G4LtfgFTI5iexs_e5fnWUleNCsNdn-yvDynd_3o59Tp0TSbY2TxOYPfJAnPkxolIyRuJG6xIzmxBg_v_sB5H9iFfVXUMLisIM8-JTeaDWEr-_0w4TqiWJdizmcw5cZc1BWYqFF1rqpHqTEG0InjMc2FBpFu-9IyPq6OjIzKJq_Amzadwcluui50D-gXU5ItoAyfj&amp;c=spcFgfr7o-ko2MighpvUxu2LV39Aopy6AYFS9J6lqI545fQlFxxRpQ==&amp;ch=34Fut_4e2HlasK6IVyO6RZ5Xxsd6V5ntr07mGaeSVtUXeAutrLwfjA==" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f%3D001Sh6_atdxglG5B9JP7c1M3ZFDWHovOYHhTyDGcZSiUhKqXpxYgLntigej8WteVEiqlS-Yy3bLc5HH2Pr98VROGnl8iUcmjlu5QWlD5Y3uXKZex6B_aWez0I8_kesiJ38tvuZkeLeuG71UaEWyd76ZOf1hG970lArU58na_GIANX5tFi2HmhvJq9cfplViqMM9OVxcFwOyZYJGNweLnqXPG8dX0pSMf8MdaFpyRqf6ozN_kf-_yFY2_WH9JDwgU8NzBodE6J1qPtDSLB-SFgC0CgY9OJvb4H8iAmPHJrXUvCe-IK-fjMQ28DqsTUHUUDoMXSR707EMmWtavscaNsg5SZduxPd2G4LtfgFTI5iexs_e5fnWUleNCsNdn-yvDynd_3o59Tp0TSbY2TxOYPfJAnPkxolIyRuJG6xIzmxBg_v_sB5H9iFfVXUMLisIM8-JTeaDWEr-_0w4TqiWJdizmcw5cZc1BWYqFF1rqpHqTEG0InjMc2FBpFu-9IyPq6OjIzKJq_Amzadwcluui50D-gXU5ItoAyfj%26c%3DspcFgfr7o-ko2MighpvUxu2LV39Aopy6AYFS9J6lqI545fQlFxxRpQ%3D%3D%26ch%3D34Fut_4e2HlasK6IVyO6RZ5Xxsd6V5ntr07mGaeSVtUXeAutrLwfjA%3D%3D&amp;source=gmail&amp;ust=1698157358438000&amp;usg=AOvVaw1Y-LpZlU_-Ku1-NaKnY_VT">Secretary of State Boards and Commissions – Open Positions</a> webpage to apply for a position.

Members Needed for the Early Intensive Developmental and Behavioral Intervention Advisory Group

If you were unable to attend the AAP Webinar: Nirsevimab Implementation Strategies in Outpatient Pediatric Practices, a replay link is now available <a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001Sh6_atdxglG5B9JP7c1M3ZFDWHovOYHhTyDGcZSiUhKqXpxYgLntigej8WteVEiqCeXaBJV4Mwl_KX9szZHqULkcnXuW3b7p9Wns0yZTAfjtW0-9qfO79K9n7mr1CHDtGGyADcNFCqxeGvyHLs9xKP10DtDV5Lahla4pRulXJntEvMNNNJextboK6hKJ6vTjvx99hH63yQ1nAiTk9CMeh3eELJJEw8pEfTWuj6zKvm61netIBeTem5nQzp84e1uPJ2E_i3VFoDruj5PcJbZtmA==&amp;c=spcFgfr7o-ko2MighpvUxu2LV39Aopy6AYFS9J6lqI545fQlFxxRpQ==&amp;ch=34Fut_4e2HlasK6IVyO6RZ5Xxsd6V5ntr07mGaeSVtUXeAutrLwfjA==" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f%3D001Sh6_atdxglG5B9JP7c1M3ZFDWHovOYHhTyDGcZSiUhKqXpxYgLntigej8WteVEiqCeXaBJV4Mwl_KX9szZHqULkcnXuW3b7p9Wns0yZTAfjtW0-9qfO79K9n7mr1CHDtGGyADcNFCqxeGvyHLs9xKP10DtDV5Lahla4pRulXJntEvMNNNJextboK6hKJ6vTjvx99hH63yQ1nAiTk9CMeh3eELJJEw8pEfTWuj6zKvm61netIBeTem5nQzp84e1uPJ2E_i3VFoDruj5PcJbZtmA%3D%3D%26c%3DspcFgfr7o-ko2MighpvUxu2LV39Aopy6AYFS9J6lqI545fQlFxxRpQ%3D%3D%26ch%3D34Fut_4e2HlasK6IVyO6RZ5Xxsd6V5ntr07mGaeSVtUXeAutrLwfjA%3D%3D&amp;source=gmail&amp;ust=1698157358437000&amp;usg=AOvVaw2L65lzXQ0V7GC1JRJRySnq">here</a>. Below are links to the resources that were shared as well:
<ul>
<li><a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001Sh6_atdxglG5B9JP7c1M3ZFDWHovOYHhTyDGcZSiUhKqXpxYgLntigej8WteVEiqq_LWdSnfBtmulTaWfkRi5JbHPVK89SqUcSkHjH-xWzX0G-YqB2UeC1VYO3X0jjCGVL-uq1wKQMO9cZNtP1JujxtpXgrzkQtFP7uYQXMs6K6DlGhk80V5IT--G-6OCSEdJPpURw1sxFZtrI7ikDTyusIQIJO03ilesl47ylIPQGI=&amp;c=spcFgfr7o-ko2MighpvUxu2LV39Aopy6AYFS9J6lqI545fQlFxxRpQ==&amp;ch=34Fut_4e2HlasK6IVyO6RZ5Xxsd6V5ntr07mGaeSVtUXeAutrLwfjA==" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f%3D001Sh6_atdxglG5B9JP7c1M3ZFDWHovOYHhTyDGcZSiUhKqXpxYgLntigej8WteVEiqq_LWdSnfBtmulTaWfkRi5JbHPVK89SqUcSkHjH-xWzX0G-YqB2UeC1VYO3X0jjCGVL-uq1wKQMO9cZNtP1JujxtpXgrzkQtFP7uYQXMs6K6DlGhk80V5IT--G-6OCSEdJPpURw1sxFZtrI7ikDTyusIQIJO03ilesl47ylIPQGI%3D%26c%3DspcFgfr7o-ko2MighpvUxu2LV39Aopy6AYFS9J6lqI545fQlFxxRpQ%3D%3D%26ch%3D34Fut_4e2HlasK6IVyO6RZ5Xxsd6V5ntr07mGaeSVtUXeAutrLwfjA%3D%3D&amp;source=gmail&amp;ust=1698157358437000&amp;usg=AOvVaw0-TOgIJeSoeBxXTvzoWDwy">Practice Readiness Checklist</a>: Use this checklist to assess your practice’s readiness to administer nirsevimab to patients.</li>
<li><a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001Sh6_atdxglG5B9JP7c1M3ZFDWHovOYHhTyDGcZSiUhKqXpxYgLntigej8WteVEiqLzoWOeclZdw_5uu6_Bfj4bUeq6y50Ovy5vd2tPzcDd2hA-2yZzL2kB2y_ZWej2qDF2YqTL4YLksHZ4dbhbt45KrHhlfTTuU8np4FLA8zFyCV6dQQAaZ1lRudClIDYUDUwni98b2ZiZwtRj5Bu0JdblHjV3qhdKlb&amp;c=spcFgfr7o-ko2MighpvUxu2LV39Aopy6AYFS9J6lqI545fQlFxxRpQ==&amp;ch=34Fut_4e2HlasK6IVyO6RZ5Xxsd6V5ntr07mGaeSVtUXeAutrLwfjA==" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f%3D001Sh6_atdxglG5B9JP7c1M3ZFDWHovOYHhTyDGcZSiUhKqXpxYgLntigej8WteVEiqLzoWOeclZdw_5uu6_Bfj4bUeq6y50Ovy5vd2tPzcDd2hA-2yZzL2kB2y_ZWej2qDF2YqTL4YLksHZ4dbhbt45KrHhlfTTuU8np4FLA8zFyCV6dQQAaZ1lRudClIDYUDUwni98b2ZiZwtRj5Bu0JdblHjV3qhdKlb%26c%3DspcFgfr7o-ko2MighpvUxu2LV39Aopy6AYFS9J6lqI545fQlFxxRpQ%3D%3D%26ch%3D34Fut_4e2HlasK6IVyO6RZ5Xxsd6V5ntr07mGaeSVtUXeAutrLwfjA%3D%3D&amp;source=gmail&amp;ust=1698157358437000&amp;usg=AOvVaw3jGaiHBQlJcz09V31gzmYj">Nirsevimab Implementation Guide</a>: Use this guide as you roll out nirsevimab to patients.</li>
<li><a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001Sh6_atdxglG5B9JP7c1M3ZFDWHovOYHhTyDGcZSiUhKqXpxYgLntigej8WteVEiqHOC3zfyZX0Y3MR1xtRvG1n4t8q6e0obuqQo1EVU49hU6EODJG9Ng682ycu0QUrJEX9SB1sEUe01lZFAEfb25f4nZM9XN04ZeM5Fj2dRFi0IrT-g8IITcVNauV7RKbKKeCUiyNPprH2qq0Y0PFjvPuw==&amp;c=spcFgfr7o-ko2MighpvUxu2LV39Aopy6AYFS9J6lqI545fQlFxxRpQ==&amp;ch=34Fut_4e2HlasK6IVyO6RZ5Xxsd6V5ntr07mGaeSVtUXeAutrLwfjA==" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f%3D001Sh6_atdxglG5B9JP7c1M3ZFDWHovOYHhTyDGcZSiUhKqXpxYgLntigej8WteVEiqHOC3zfyZX0Y3MR1xtRvG1n4t8q6e0obuqQo1EVU49hU6EODJG9Ng682ycu0QUrJEX9SB1sEUe01lZFAEfb25f4nZM9XN04ZeM5Fj2dRFi0IrT-g8IITcVNauV7RKbKKeCUiyNPprH2qq0Y0PFjvPuw%3D%3D%26c%3DspcFgfr7o-ko2MighpvUxu2LV39Aopy6AYFS9J6lqI545fQlFxxRpQ%3D%3D%26ch%3D34Fut_4e2HlasK6IVyO6RZ5Xxsd6V5ntr07mGaeSVtUXeAutrLwfjA%3D%3D&amp;source=gmail&amp;ust=1698157358437000&amp;usg=AOvVaw3Fg4vlgudIicQxeqFE5cvU">Nirsevimab Administration Visual Guide</a>: Use this algorithm/guide to help determine if and what dose is needed for administration.</li>
<li><a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001Sh6_atdxglG5B9JP7c1M3ZFDWHovOYHhTyDGcZSiUhKqXpxYgLntigej8WteVEiqWRdhnUB4JoKXSjP47j7JiRtcS6lSBaqWHyym6ithILMaNeNtYZxBqy-QDpYSoau-k_AKasCYeDeVLt256s1l_-mYC5Z3jFHw6SjlkoMkgbZNdoWmjYvHhgi3HJs1Zkrzg6YOFTqTmPZSbo36gj-mdSqbMAt9qL23qZMuHQ2Cyac=&amp;c=spcFgfr7o-ko2MighpvUxu2LV39Aopy6AYFS9J6lqI545fQlFxxRpQ==&amp;ch=34Fut_4e2HlasK6IVyO6RZ5Xxsd6V5ntr07mGaeSVtUXeAutrLwfjA==" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f%3D001Sh6_atdxglG5B9JP7c1M3ZFDWHovOYHhTyDGcZSiUhKqXpxYgLntigej8WteVEiqWRdhnUB4JoKXSjP47j7JiRtcS6lSBaqWHyym6ithILMaNeNtYZxBqy-QDpYSoau-k_AKasCYeDeVLt256s1l_-mYC5Z3jFHw6SjlkoMkgbZNdoWmjYvHhgi3HJs1Zkrzg6YOFTqTmPZSbo36gj-mdSqbMAt9qL23qZMuHQ2Cyac%3D%26c%3DspcFgfr7o-ko2MighpvUxu2LV39Aopy6AYFS9J6lqI545fQlFxxRpQ%3D%3D%26ch%3D34Fut_4e2HlasK6IVyO6RZ5Xxsd6V5ntr07mGaeSVtUXeAutrLwfjA%3D%3D&amp;source=gmail&amp;ust=1698157358437000&amp;usg=AOvVaw3-awUoGr0Tix6HE2MuLTjR">Immunization Information Statemen</a>t: Provide this VIS-like information to parents/caregivers when administering nirsevimab.</li>
<li><a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001Sh6_atdxglG5B9JP7c1M3ZFDWHovOYHhTyDGcZSiUhKqXpxYgLntigej8WteVEiqs6qbokNLA6sOVc0765Vs6G2QqYyoJXWxA7l1RNnho07MZapfhLX-UGKE4ld_MS6pU7r4zrkLkdpg_r04S7N1KMBWaldl1EbDNf1a8WDS72TP4GwIGFBm5dCdvil_vYJvVl0gelDHlJQq5ZPh0Fmcl57RwkaKrIInyQZbCmIu4qWhMuK7USolJVZr4xr-b1ZCUAX86EZr_20=&amp;c=spcFgfr7o-ko2MighpvUxu2LV39Aopy6AYFS9J6lqI545fQlFxxRpQ==&amp;ch=34Fut_4e2HlasK6IVyO6RZ5Xxsd6V5ntr07mGaeSVtUXeAutrLwfjA==" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f%3D001Sh6_atdxglG5B9JP7c1M3ZFDWHovOYHhTyDGcZSiUhKqXpxYgLntigej8WteVEiqs6qbokNLA6sOVc0765Vs6G2QqYyoJXWxA7l1RNnho07MZapfhLX-UGKE4ld_MS6pU7r4zrkLkdpg_r04S7N1KMBWaldl1EbDNf1a8WDS72TP4GwIGFBm5dCdvil_vYJvVl0gelDHlJQq5ZPh0Fmcl57RwkaKrIInyQZbCmIu4qWhMuK7USolJVZr4xr-b1ZCUAX86EZr_20%3D%26c%3DspcFgfr7o-ko2MighpvUxu2LV39Aopy6AYFS9J6lqI545fQlFxxRpQ%3D%3D%26ch%3D34Fut_4e2HlasK6IVyO6RZ5Xxsd6V5ntr07mGaeSVtUXeAutrLwfjA%3D%3D&amp;source=gmail&amp;ust=1698157358437000&amp;usg=AOvVaw1ZBzGMjephO3ge32wEIDKs">Coding Guidance</a>: Find information about the CPT codes for nirsevimab and its administration, including coding vignettes.</li>
<li><a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001Sh6_atdxglG5B9JP7c1M3ZFDWHovOYHhTyDGcZSiUhKqXpxYgLntigej8WteVEiqxEojsfE2pdLOk7V_d-_iIGPdQhSotkQAyLEXFFSdIDsKucpgbIv3NVkE9Ys63TDs1RUzVt-TXFXlT1mrM25FAT6IQV4DojqmHR6T0KqndrKzBh412_WQAldfz7CID9cZpLAlwLsRB-M2Qx6sPmAjrtoqV4nIXQRxxij4B4KrBX8RJfpq_uhkMSa-BXsZ6MxA8dzRfV53es8xBZDjHYr-UQ==&amp;c=spcFgfr7o-ko2MighpvUxu2LV39Aopy6AYFS9J6lqI545fQlFxxRpQ==&amp;ch=34Fut_4e2HlasK6IVyO6RZ5Xxsd6V5ntr07mGaeSVtUXeAutrLwfjA==" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f%3D001Sh6_atdxglG5B9JP7c1M3ZFDWHovOYHhTyDGcZSiUhKqXpxYgLntigej8WteVEiqxEojsfE2pdLOk7V_d-_iIGPdQhSotkQAyLEXFFSdIDsKucpgbIv3NVkE9Ys63TDs1RUzVt-TXFXlT1mrM25FAT6IQV4DojqmHR6T0KqndrKzBh412_WQAldfz7CID9cZpLAlwLsRB-M2Qx6sPmAjrtoqV4nIXQRxxij4B4KrBX8RJfpq_uhkMSa-BXsZ6MxA8dzRfV53es8xBZDjHYr-UQ%3D%3D%26c%3DspcFgfr7o-ko2MighpvUxu2LV39Aopy6AYFS9J6lqI545fQlFxxRpQ%3D%3D%26ch%3D34Fut_4e2HlasK6IVyO6RZ5Xxsd6V5ntr07mGaeSVtUXeAutrLwfjA%3D%3D&amp;source=gmail&amp;ust=1698157358437000&amp;usg=AOvVaw0aTkAS5nJX48OSjl1K_Pju">Nirsevimab FAQs</a>: Find answers to common questions about nirsevimab and administering it to patients. This page also includes a link to submit unanswered questions.</li>
</ul>
AAP News Article, “<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001Sh6_atdxglG5B9JP7c1M3ZFDWHovOYHhTyDGcZSiUhKqXpxYgLntigej8WteVEiqURwTt6iRv_IzBLRSdWEgnXP5cfMdAGWSJxgyM-UUPivyQbaKzPic2oCRKE3HVw4EpgbLkdsOB1uJmr0Y3Ndyy3TCLwwTlMt9xMzPEr5SdQptquU7Sgz2Fft7zSmTXKrO3tRN7l4CPBGpptowV5GDIcLJdjcnLAOs0IN_0akufZ5DSuKibY0GuBbxBG44_NBzg740T6qXyLc2tYdEHAzGtg==&amp;c=spcFgfr7o-ko2MighpvUxu2LV39Aopy6AYFS9J6lqI545fQlFxxRpQ==&amp;ch=34Fut_4e2HlasK6IVyO6RZ5Xxsd6V5ntr07mGaeSVtUXeAutrLwfjA==" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f%3D001Sh6_atdxglG5B9JP7c1M3ZFDWHovOYHhTyDGcZSiUhKqXpxYgLntigej8WteVEiqURwTt6iRv_IzBLRSdWEgnXP5cfMdAGWSJxgyM-UUPivyQbaKzPic2oCRKE3HVw4EpgbLkdsOB1uJmr0Y3Ndyy3TCLwwTlMt9xMzPEr5SdQptquU7Sgz2Fft7zSmTXKrO3tRN7l4CPBGpptowV5GDIcLJdjcnLAOs0IN_0akufZ5DSuKibY0GuBbxBG44_NBzg740T6qXyLc2tYdEHAzGtg%3D%3D%26c%3DspcFgfr7o-ko2MighpvUxu2LV39Aopy6AYFS9J6lqI545fQlFxxRpQ%3D%3D%26ch%3D34Fut_4e2HlasK6IVyO6RZ5Xxsd6V5ntr07mGaeSVtUXeAutrLwfjA%3D%3D&amp;source=gmail&amp;ust=1698157358437000&amp;usg=AOvVaw2MFjealicJVNjAUu1WQiBJ">Supply issues plague nirsevimab ordering</a>” (October 17, 2023)
AAP Chapter Immunization Representative: To locate your state’s CIR, please submit an inquiry to the <a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001Sh6_atdxglG5B9JP7c1M3ZFDWHovOYHhTyDGcZSiUhKqXpxYgLntigej8WteVEiql-31agLNX1jwofyEjXQ2p5_kZKEbOV7cGaAe8ikY1sML2H0J6UFjVPgPkgCXKqpa5N8bv335Uhhzz6D7MpvzAiDvnfw5S86p_-4TxzDZn1BxCM5h8dGPlSpiQDtG4yehaXN5pRaP9fU=&amp;c=spcFgfr7o-ko2MighpvUxu2LV39Aopy6AYFS9J6lqI545fQlFxxRpQ==&amp;ch=34Fut_4e2HlasK6IVyO6RZ5Xxsd6V5ntr07mGaeSVtUXeAutrLwfjA==" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f%3D001Sh6_atdxglG5B9JP7c1M3ZFDWHovOYHhTyDGcZSiUhKqXpxYgLntigej8WteVEiql-31agLNX1jwofyEjXQ2p5_kZKEbOV7cGaAe8ikY1sML2H0J6UFjVPgPkgCXKqpa5N8bv335Uhhzz6D7MpvzAiDvnfw5S86p_-4TxzDZn1BxCM5h8dGPlSpiQDtG4yehaXN5pRaP9fU%3D%26c%3DspcFgfr7o-ko2MighpvUxu2LV39Aopy6AYFS9J6lqI545fQlFxxRpQ%3D%3D%26ch%3D34Fut_4e2HlasK6IVyO6RZ5Xxsd6V5ntr07mGaeSVtUXeAutrLwfjA%3D%3D&amp;source=gmail&amp;ust=1698157358437000&amp;usg=AOvVaw2GWtL3EzLk5cGCfA5Yn0i7">Immunization FAQ Submission Form</a>

Replay Link Available for Nirsevimab Implementation Webinar

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<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="762" height="1024" src="https://wp.mnaap.org/wp-lib/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/Fall-2023-MN-Ped-For-Web-762x1024.png" alt="Fall 2023 Minnesota Pediatrician" class="wp-image-4431" srcset="https://wp.mnaap.org/wp-lib/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/Fall-2023-MN-Ped-For-Web-762x1024.png 762w, https://wp.mnaap.org/wp-lib/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/Fall-2023-MN-Ped-For-Web-223x300.png 223w, https://wp.mnaap.org/wp-lib/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/Fall-2023-MN-Ped-For-Web-768x1032.png 768w, https://wp.mnaap.org/wp-lib/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/Fall-2023-MN-Ped-For-Web.png 964w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 762px) 100vw, 762px" /></figure>
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View the Fall 2023 Minnesota Pediatrician as a PDF: <a href="https://wp.mnaap.org/wp-lib/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/Fall-2023-MN-Ped-For-Web.pdf" rel="attachment wp-att-4267">Fall 2023 Minnesota Pediatrician </a>



<a href="http://www.mnaap.org/word-from-the-president-eileen-crespo-md-faap-4/">Word from the President: Eileen Crespo, MD, FAAP</a>



<a href="http://www.mnaap.org/building-on-legislative-successes/">Building on Legislative Successes</a>



<a href="http://www.mnaap.org/chapter-honors-achievement-and-dedication-with-annual-awards-2/">Chapter Honors Achievement and Dedication with Annual Awards</a>



<a href="http://www.mnaap.org/food-insecurity-referral-project-leads-to-major-tech-connection/">Food Insecurity Referral Project Leads to Major Tech Connection</a>



<a href="http://www.mnaap.org/minnesota-begins-universal-congenital-cmv-screening-how-is-it-going-so-far/">Minnesota Begins Universal Congenital CMV Screening: How Is It Going So Far?</a>



<a href="http://www.mnaap.org/mnaap-work-group-news-fall-2023/">MNAAP Work Group News | Fall 2023</a>
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Fall 2023 Minnesota Pediatrician

<h3 class="wp-block-heading">What is a work group?</h3>



The MNAAP work groups were formed as part of the chapter’s strategic priorities plan to address areas in which change or improvement would benefit the lives of Minnesota’s youth. During a work group meeting, members often identify opportunities for collaboration, potential projects to take on, or other ways to advocate for their cause. Email Bethany Venable (venable@mnaap.org) for more information.



Anti-Racism &amp; Disparities



The Anti-Racism &amp; Disparities work group is looking ahead to spring with plans to host a retreat to bring members together in an energizing session of planning and visioning. The group is also the chapter’s point of contact for a new contract initiated with the YWCA to help further embed diversity, equity, accessibility and inclusion in the MNAAP culture and operations. The Anti-Racism &amp; Disparities Work Group next meeting is set for Monday, Dec. 11, from 12:15 to 1 p.m. via Zoom.



Early Childhood



It has been a monumental year for investment in the littlest Minnesotans, thanks in part, to all the MNAAP members who spoke up for children who can’t speak for themselves. Yet, all this positive change yields more opportunity and more work to do! This year, our chapter will have monthly meetings or lectures about the ways we can advocate at the policy level for prenatal to five health and investment. We will also talk about how we can bring important programming into our daily practice. Our next meeting is Oct. 27, at 12:10 p.m. via Zoom.&nbsp; If you believe in the power of the first 1,000 days to change a life course, then please join us!



Behavioral/Mental Health



The Behavioral/Mental Health work group continues to work on the Minnesota Pediatric Mental Health Access Program MOC 4 focused on depression screening in LGBTQ+ and BIPOC communities. We are looking forward to learning more about how we can have open, affirming screening and supportive conversations around mental health from the youth in our community partnerships. 



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MNAAP Work Group News | Fall 2023

<figure id="attachment_4261" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-4261" style="width: 199px" class="wp-caption alignleft"><a href="http://www.mnaap.org/minnesota-begins-universal-congenital-cmv-screening-how-is-it-going-so-far/mn-aap/" rel="attachment wp-att-4261"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="wp-image-4261 size-medium" src="http://www.mnaap.org/wp-lib/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/MN.AAP_-199x300.jpeg" alt="" width="199" height="300" srcset="https://wp.mnaap.org/wp-lib/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/MN.AAP_-199x300.jpeg 199w, https://wp.mnaap.org/wp-lib/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/MN.AAP_.jpeg 323w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 199px) 100vw, 199px" /></a><figcaption id="caption-attachment-4261" class="wp-caption-text">Parent advocates Leah Henrikson and Steph Steidl are pictured here with their children, Vivian Henrikson Hank Steidl at the initiation ceremony for the new cCMV screening program. Both Vivian and Henry were born with cCMV. The “Vivian Act” is named after Vivian.</figcaption></figure>
On February 6, 2023, Minnesota became the first state to screen all newborns for congenital cytomegalovirus (cCMV), the most common infectious cause of pediatric disability in the United States. Most children born with cCMV are asymptomatic and have normal developmental outcomes, but up to 15 percent will have sensorineural hearing loss (SNHL). The need to monitor for SNHL is the driving force behind universal screening. This breakthrough in newborn screening was made possible by the passage of the “Vivian Act” in 2021, legislation driven by parental advocacy coupled with advances in biotechnology that made newborn dried blood spots sufficiently sensitive for newborn screening.
Since the advent of this newborn screening test, substantial numbers of infants with cCMV have already been identified. What is recommended if you, as a primary care pediatrician, receive a report from the Minnesota Department of Health (MDH) Newborn Screening Program that an infant’s cCMV screen is positive?
<ul>
<li class="p3">At this time, it is recommended that the infant have a PCR test of urine to confirm the cCMV diagnosis.</li>
<li class="p3">Evaluation should focus on the question of whether the infant has any signs or symptoms of cCMV. The history and physical exam are of great value. Was there a history of intrauterine growth retardation/SGA? Did the newborn demonstrate low birth weight, petechiae, microcephaly, hepatosplenomegaly, or other rashes? Did the baby “refer” on the newborn hearing screen? Does the baby have any neurological findings on the newborn physical exam that are abnormal?</li>
<li class="p3">Additional studies to help define whether the infant has CMV disease (versus asymptomatic infection) are recommended, including a complete blood count (including differential leukocyte count and platelet count), hepatic function tests, a cranial ultrasound examination, and ophthalmologic evaluation. If there is any uncertainty about cranial ultrasound findings, it can be very useful to have the imaging study reviewed by a pediatric radiologist. In some cases, MRI imaging might be warranted. A diagnostic algorithm for confirmed cCMV cases can be found on the MDH Newborn Screening Program’s website at:<a href="https://www.health.state.mn.us/people/newbornscreening/program/cmv/followup.html"> https://www.health.state.mn.us/people/newbornscreening/program/cmv/followup.html</a></li>
<li class="p3">A detailed audiologic assessment (preferably an auditory brainstem response, or ABR) is warranted in all cCMV cases: pediatricians should not just rely a routine newborn hearing screen at the time of newborn nursery discharge. This is important both to establish a baseline and establish a relationship with an audiologist for future follow-up. Ongoing care with an audiologist with specific pediatric training is preferred, when possible. As many as 75 percent of infants with eventual SNHL due to cCMV pass their newborn hearing screen and have normal hearing at birth.</li>
<li class="p3">Not all infants with cCMV need to be referred to a pediatric infectious diseases (ID) specialist. As ID clinicians, we note that most evaluations are being appropriately handled by primary care pediatricians and family practitioners. We are available, however, for consultation with primary care physicians if there is uncertainty on interpretation of laboratory, imaging, or clinical findings, or to review and discuss any cases identified by the newborn screen.</li>
<li class="p3">Consultation with a pediatric ID specialist can be particularly useful in making decisions about antiviral therapy. Antiviral therapy is of no proven benefit for infants with cCMV who are asymptomatic at birth. However, if an infant has signs or symptoms of cCMV disease, including abnormal ultrasonographic or laboratory studies, or an abnormal audiological evaluation, then discussion with an ID physician is recommended in considering the value of treatment.</li>
<li class="p3">All infants with cCMV should have regular follow-up audiologic assessments. Guidelines for audiological monitoring recommendations can be downloaded at the MDH web page at: <a href="https://www.health.state.mn.us/diseases/cytomegalovirus/professionals.html">https://www.health.state.mn.us/diseases/cytomegalovirus/professionals.html </a></li>
</ul>
Pediatric ID providers at the Mayo Clinic, the University of Minnesota Medical School, Hennepin Health, and Children’s Minnesota are available to assist Minnesota pediatricians with questions and, as needed, referrals for cCMV. ID providers available for consultation are listed at: https://www.health.state.mn.us/people/newbornscreening/providers/bloodspotresources.html. Excellent educational resources on cCMV for primary care physicians are available at <a href="https://www.health.state.mn.us/people/newbornscreening/program/cmv/resources.html">https://www.health.state.mn.us/people/newbornscreening/program/cmv/resources.html</a>. Physicians can also utilize resources for parents, families and caregivers that are available for download at the MDH website at <a href="https://www.health.state.mn.us/diseases/cytomegalovirus/parentpkt.pdf">https://www.health.state.mn.us/diseases/cytomegalovirus/parentpkt.pdf </a>

Minnesota Begins Universal Congenital CMV Screening: How Is It Going So Far?

<figure id="attachment_4257" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-4257" style="width: 200px" class="wp-caption alignleft"><a href="http://www.mnaap.org/food-insecurity-referral-project-leads-to-major-tech-connection/pexels-markus-spiske-175422/" rel="attachment wp-att-4257"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="size-medium wp-image-4257" src="http://www.mnaap.org/wp-lib/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/pexels-markus-spiske-175422-200x300.jpg" alt="" width="200" height="300" /></a><figcaption id="caption-attachment-4257" class="wp-caption-text">Photo by Markus Spiske</figcaption></figure>
A project designed to streamline the Minnesota Women, Infant, and Children (MN WIC) referral process for physicians and clinic staff is headed into its next phase with the creation of a statewide data-sharing system. The project, funded by an AAP Food Insecurity grant, aimed to close the loop between families and the MN WIC program through the touchpoint of routine clinic visits. The project examined how creating EMR referrals to the WIC program and sharing patient information can promote WIC enrollment and encourage sustained participation.
The project piloted a read-only system between Hennepin Healthcare and Hennepin County WIC that allowed a workflow to be integrated into a clinic visit record. According to Dr. Diana Cutts of Hennepin Healthcare, it was encouraging to see how the collaboration between the medical provider and WIC was enhanced.
“The focus on how technology can be helpful on both sides of this relationship,” said Dr. Cutts. “No more fax machines, no more mailing. It is appropriate for what’s possible these days. It helps everyone be more efficient. We were able to move some boulders in this process and create a connection that everybody benefits from. It’s been a really great gift to all of us involved.”
MNAAP is working with several partners including Ramsey County WIC, Minnesota WIC, and Hennepin County WIC to create a closed-loop family referral system between providers and the state’s Women, Infant, and Children (WIC) agency. The next step will be for the Minnesota Department of Health to help create a statewide system for referrals, as well as sharing vital statistics data.

Food Insecurity Referral Project Leads to Major Tech Connection

Each year, the Minnesota Chapter of the American Academy of Pediatrics honors chapter members and individuals in the community for their dedication to the health and wellbeing of Minnesota’s children and adolescents with the Distinguished Service Award and the Eric Dick Child Advocacy Award. The Distinguished Service Award is presented to a pediatrician for dedicating their life to improving care for children in Minnesota. The newly named Eric Dick Child Advocacy award honors MNAAP’s late lobbyist and is presented to a person or organization from the community who goes above and beyond in their everyday routine to advocate for children, embodying the importance of advocacy that Eric strove to instill in our chapter.
Chapter President Eileen Crespo, MD, FAAP, announced the 2023 award recipients at the annual meeting on Sept. 21. We applaud these individuals for their commitment to advocacy and advancement on behalf of Minnesota’s youth.
<figure id="attachment_4252" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-4252" style="width: 150px" class="wp-caption alignleft"><a href="http://www.mnaap.org/chapter-honors-achievement-and-dedication-with-annual-awards-2/kaplan/" rel="attachment wp-att-4252"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="size-thumbnail wp-image-4252" src="http://www.mnaap.org/wp-lib/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/Kaplan-150x150.jpeg" alt="" width="150" height="150" srcset="https://wp.mnaap.org/wp-lib/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/Kaplan-150x150.jpeg 150w, https://wp.mnaap.org/wp-lib/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/Kaplan-300x300.jpeg 300w, https://wp.mnaap.org/wp-lib/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/Kaplan-1024x1024.jpeg 1024w, https://wp.mnaap.org/wp-lib/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/Kaplan-768x768.jpeg 768w, https://wp.mnaap.org/wp-lib/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/Kaplan.jpeg 1084w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 150px) 100vw, 150px" /></a><figcaption id="caption-attachment-4252" class="wp-caption-text">Dr. Edward Kaplan</figcaption></figure>
<h3 class="p1">2023 Distinguished Service Award: Edward Kaplan, MD, FAAP (posthumously) </h3>
Dr. Ed Kaplan (Feb. 1936 &#8211; March 2023) left a legacy in pediatrics through his research and his mentorship of hundreds of young physicians. Dr. Kaplan was a pediatric cardiologist and infectious disease physician who pioneered critical research in Streptococcal infections. He served as head of the World Health Organization Collaborating Center on Streptococci. Many MNAAP members remember Dr. Kaplan as a professor at the University of Minnesota where he educated and encouraged young physicians.
Dr. Kaplan continued to contribute a breadth of research to pediatrics even after his retirement in 2013, with many articles for medical journals and chapters in medical books. He was awarded the Gold Headed Cane award in 2015, an honor given for excellence as a physician. MNAAP leaders recognize Dr. Kaplan’s impact on pediatrics both in Minnesota and worldwide.
<h3></h3>
<figure id="attachment_4253" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-4253" style="width: 150px" class="wp-caption alignleft"><a href="http://www.mnaap.org/chapter-honors-achievement-and-dedication-with-annual-awards-2/goepferd-angela-1205971223/" rel="attachment wp-att-4253"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="size-thumbnail wp-image-4253" src="http://www.mnaap.org/wp-lib/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/goepferd-angela-1205971223-150x150.jpeg" alt="" width="150" height="150" /></a><figcaption id="caption-attachment-4253" class="wp-caption-text">Dr. Angela Kade Goepferd</figcaption></figure>
<h3 class="p1">2023 Eric Dick Child Advocacy Award: Angela Kade Goepferd, MD, FAAP</h3>
Angela Kade Goepferd, MD, FAAP, is a force for good in the corner of LGBTQIA+ youth in Minnesota. In addition to their roles as chief medical officer, chief of staff, and medical director of gender health at Children’s Minnesota, they are also a tireless advocate for gender-affirming care and equitable health care for children, teens, and their families. The chapter’s leadership recognized Dr. Goepferd with the 2023 Eric Dick Child Advocacy Award for their efforts to ban the dangerous and destructive practice of conversion therapy in Minnesota, and to establish the state as a trans refuge state during the 2022-23 legislative session.
Dr. Goepferd is a positive, encouraging presence for their patients and families. They represent the epitome of an advocate: a compassionate voice that continues to bring forward the needs and rights of their patients for representation and inclusion.

Chapter Honors Achievement and Dedication with Annual Awards

<figure id="attachment_3502" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-3502" style="width: 150px" class="wp-caption alignleft"><a href="http://www.mnaap.org/board-members/chad-fahning-photo-headshot/" rel="attachment wp-att-3502"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="size-thumbnail wp-image-3502" src="http://www.mnaap.org/wp-lib/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/Chad-Fahning-Photo-headshot-150x150.png" alt="" width="150" height="150" /></a><figcaption id="caption-attachment-3502" class="wp-caption-text">Chad Fahning, MNAAP Lobbyist</figcaption></figure>
The entire autumn season is sacred to me. I love the bustling atmosphere of the new school year, the roar of a college football game, posing for “candid” pictures at an apple orchard, and yes, I also enjoy a pumpkin spice latte here and there.
But today’s autumn air seems especially light. That might be because this school year, Minnesota’s children will enjoy free school meals for the first time. It might be because we have a comprehensive paid family and medical leave program in this state. Another reason might be that, come April, Minnesotans will feel the benefits of the new child tax credit passed by the legislature. All these items, among the many others we pushed through this session, will help children and families in this state.
But there’s always more work to be done. We passed comprehensive firearm safety measures last year – expanded background checks and Extreme Risk Protection Orders – but safe storage requirements and required reporting of lost or stolen firearms were left on the table. We passed the PRO Act and legal protections for physicians offering reproductive healthcare, but there are still laws on the books in Minnesota restricting access to care. It is now illegal to subject kids to the barbaric practice of conversion therapy, and the legislature passed a law ensuring access to gender-affirming care, but there is still more to be done for the health, safety, and wellbeing of our kids.
Yes – we should revel in our victories from this past session. Your cider should taste a little sweeter and your flannel should feel a little warmer. But pediatricians across the state must bring the same dedication, organization, and passion to the Capitol in 2024, and much of that work begins now. We need to build on our successes to ensure that Minnesota is the best place in the world to be a kid and raise a family.
Please participate in MNAAP advocacy events and stay up-to-date on opportunities to engage with lawmakers so that when the legislature reconvenes on February 12, we are ready to effectively advocate for the next generation of Minnesotans!
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Stay Connected! 
MNAAP sends updates and alerts to members throughout the legislative session to help them stay informed about important matters of child health.
Make sure you’ve received these emails in the past by doing a quick inbox search for messages from “MNAAP Policy Co-Chairs Sue Berry, MD, FAAP, and Hannah Lichtsinn, MD, FAAP” and by adding ‘venable@mnaap.org’ to your contact list.
This will ensure you always receive the news and information that pertains to advocacy opportunities and updates.

Building on Legislative Successes

<figure id="attachment_3918" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-3918" style="width: 150px" class="wp-caption alignleft"><a href="http://www.mnaap.org/word-from-the-president-eileen-crespo-md-faap/dr-eileen-crespo/" rel="attachment wp-att-3918"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="wp-image-3918 size-thumbnail" src="http://www.mnaap.org/wp-lib/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/Dr.-Eileen-Crespo-150x150.jpg" alt="" width="150" height="150" /></a><figcaption id="caption-attachment-3918" class="wp-caption-text">Dr. Eileen Crespo, MNAAP President</figcaption></figure>
Autumn anxiety is a term I heard recently. It is the feeling of upheaval that comes when shifting from a relaxed, carefree summer mode to the many changes that come with fall, such as back-to-school, cooler weather, and a fuller and more hectic schedule of events and activities.
I’ve had a few friends and colleagues undergo significant shifts recently. Some are just cutting back on their schedules and some are making radical changes to their lives and careers. It is a good reminder of the saying, “The only constant in life is change.” 
As physicians, we not only adapt to change, but we help our patients and families navigate adjustments as well. Sometimes they are undergoing a developmental shift in their child or teen; other times they may be coping with the news of a diagnosis that feels like it came out of nowhere.
I believe it is our reaction to change that makes it feel better or worse. In situations where we cannot alter our circumstances, we have power over our emotional response. That control can give us a sense of confidence or peace as we move through the change.
I hope as we head into the fall months, you don’t have a case of autumn anxiety, but if you do, know that you are not alone. If your feelings are more than a reaction to a change of pace or the new season, please seek support. We have a list of physician resources at www.mnaap.org/physician-burnout-recommended-reading-and-resource-list/ and you can also contact your employer to discuss how help is available to you. 
Here’s to managing the ups and downs of this crazy roller coaster of life we’re all on.
&nbsp;
Eileen Crespo, MD, FAAP
MNAAP President

All MNAAP members are invited to join the chapter&#8217;s policy roundtable discussion on Thursday, Nov. 16, 6:30 &#8211; 8 p.m. via Zoom. The roundtable is the perfect opportunity to share your perspective on the issues that MNAAP should focus on at the Capitol during the upcoming legislative session. MNAAP is a leading voice on children&#8217;s health issues at the Capitol. We rely on the feedback of our members, as well as guidance from our chapter lobbyist, to determine the policy priorities of the chapter for each legislative session.
Please <a href="https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/MNAAPRoundtable" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/MNAAPRoundtable&amp;source=gmail&amp;ust=1694823335111000&amp;usg=AOvVaw2lBHpB2S8AxrL-UAFdcyMi">RSVP</a> if you plan to attend. The meeting will take place via Zoom.
MNAAP&#8217;s policy co-chairs, Sue Berry, MD, FAAP, and Hannah Lichtsinn, MD, FAAP, will facilitate the virtual conversation focused on identifying policy priorities for the Board to consider based on member feedback, legislative viability and other considerations.
Can’t make the roundtable? We’re still interested in hearing from you about what advocacy topics are important to you. Simply reply to this email to share your thoughts or email Bethany Venable <a href="mailto:venable@mnaap.org" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">venable@mnaap.org</a> with details.

Save the Date: MNAAP Policy Roundtable Discussion on Nov. 16

Board elections are held each year for open positions on the Board of Directors for the Minnesota Chapter of the American Academy of Pediatrics (MNAAP) and the Board of the Minnesota Academy of Pediatrics Foundation (MAPF).
Currently, the chapter is seeking to fill one board member opening for pediatricians or pediatrician specialists who want to help advance the chapter&#8217;s mission of improving the health of all Minnesota children.
Click <a href="https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/MPD2DGR" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/MPD2DGR&amp;source=gmail&amp;ust=1694823335111000&amp;usg=AOvVaw0fAVgo1CVFbUlgrjcPPfHN">here</a> to vote. Ballots are due by Friday, Oct. 6, 2023.
To view a list of current board members, visit <a href="http://www.mnaap.org/board-members/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?q=http://www.mnaap.org/board-members/&amp;source=gmail&amp;ust=1694823335111000&amp;usg=AOvVaw0RQM1d7MDgI03bOUoW_wm5">http://www.mnaap.org/board-members</a>

Vote Today to Fill An Open MNAAP Board of Directors Seat

MNAAP is now accepting applications for the Eric Dick Memorial Advocacy Scholarship. Applications are due by 5 p.m on Friday, Nov. 8th, 2024. Award decisions will be announced no later than Friday, Nov. 22, 2024.
Named for MNAAP&#8217;s late long-time lobbyist, the Eric Dick Memorial Advocacy Scholarship will be awarded annually to one or more residents or medical students to engage in legislative advocacy projects aimed at improving the health and wellbeing of children in Minnesota – particularly those focused on eliminating health disparities.
Advocacy scholars will be supported in implementing their projects by MNAAP’s Public Policy Work Group Co-Chairs and contract lobbyist. In 2024, we will award up to two scholarships ranging from $2,500 &#8211; $5,000, depending on the scale of the project.
Use this link to apply through <a href="https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/MFPMDB7" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/MFPMDB7&amp;source=gmail&amp;ust=1694823335111000&amp;usg=AOvVaw2VIhWMFP-frtNrR1fCG5Z2">SurveyMonkey.</a>

Application Now Open for Eric Dick Memorial Advocacy Scholarship

A policy that was put in place during the COVID pandemic to make sure no one lost their Medicaid coverage expired in early April. Now, nearly six months later, states are in the process of reviewing their programs to check who is still eligible for the program. This is being called the Medicaid &#8220;unwinding.&#8221;
Last week, the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) called for a nationwide assessment and repair of healthcare eligibility systems because they suspect children who should be covered by Medicaid/Children&#8217;s Health Insurance Program (CHIP) were mistakenly dropped from their healthcare coverage.
You can help make sure eligible patients and families continue to receive coverage with these resources:
<ul>
<li>This <a href="https://mn.gov/dhs/medicaid-matters/renewal-dashboard/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://mn.gov/dhs/medicaid-matters/renewal-dashboard/&amp;source=gmail&amp;ust=1694823335110000&amp;usg=AOvVaw03AfWhnNsruFJnpHfPNFPS">interactive dashboard</a> from the Minnesota Department of Human Services tracks the statewide resumption of renewals. You can view the total number of enrollees and total number of households due for renewal each month, and sort this data by demographic information and program eligibility category.</li>
<li><a href="https://downloads.aap.org/AAP/PDF/Medicaid/AAP%20unwinding%20two%20pager_3.15.23.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://downloads.aap.org/AAP/PDF/Medicaid/AAP%2520unwinding%2520two%2520pager_3.15.23.pdf&amp;source=gmail&amp;ust=1694823335110000&amp;usg=AOvVaw1RIXUpA4OebqW8jE9P0YGM">Medicaid Unwinding: What Pediatric Practices Need to Know</a>  – This flyer is information for pediatric practices on Medicaid Unwinding.</li>
<li><a href="https://downloads.aap.org/AAP/Documents/Practice_Template_Letter_Unwinding_Medicaid.docx" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://downloads.aap.org/AAP/Documents/Practice_Template_Letter_Unwinding_Medicaid.docx&amp;source=gmail&amp;ust=1694823335111000&amp;usg=AOvVaw1XKtxdOJM7MX72luEOTzQ1">Pediatric Practice Template Letter to Families</a> (<a href="https://downloads.aap.org/AAP/Documents/Practice%20Template%20Letter%20Unwinding%20Medicaid%20Spanish%20Copy.docx" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://downloads.aap.org/AAP/Documents/Practice%2520Template%2520Letter%2520Unwinding%2520Medicaid%2520Spanish%2520Copy.docx&amp;source=gmail&amp;ust=1694823335111000&amp;usg=AOvVaw0KCwht-2h89kBzrxK5LpDk">Spanish Version</a>)– A template letter that practices can customize with state-specific information and send to families on the Unwinding.</li>
<li><a href="https://downloads.aap.org/AAP/PDF/AAP%20Unwinding%20Overview%20April%202023.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://downloads.aap.org/AAP/PDF/AAP%2520Unwinding%2520Overview%2520April%25202023.pdf&amp;source=gmail&amp;ust=1694823335111000&amp;usg=AOvVaw2wPUPMk0sqa2lN0JbOM9A2">AAP Unwinding Overview</a> – A slide deck providing background and an updated overview of the Unwinding.</li>
<li><a href="https://downloads.aap.org/AAP/PDF/Medicaid/AAP%20Unwinding%20Practice%20Guidance.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://downloads.aap.org/AAP/PDF/Medicaid/AAP%2520Unwinding%2520Practice%2520Guidance.pdf&amp;source=gmail&amp;ust=1694823335111000&amp;usg=AOvVaw02rIfIDx3uySi0VbAeDWek">Unwinding Practice Guidance</a> – View practice guidance to help maximize patient coverage and prevent revenue loss during the Medicaid Unwinding</li>
</ul>

Medicaid Unwinding Resources for Practices, Patients and Families

What is Early Childhood Family Education (ECFE)?
<a href="http://www.mnaap.org/?attachment_id=4227">This handout</a> (shared from a parent and family educator at Robbinsdale Area Schools) details the who, what, where, why and how of ECFE.
Almost all new parents, whatever their education or income, have feelings of uncertainty. They are puzzled and daunted regarding how to care for and support the development and abilities of their new one. ECFE is present in virtually every Minnesota public school district to help meet this need. Guided by a parent educator, parents learn about child care and support one another. You can learn the names and numbers of ECFE leaders in your district through the <a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001bF02fzZgLXuZ8Zv8dsJeMadETIS2ljmTdx4ES0PZ1rW284UQz18B4B8jG4_VAGjxkSN1oReQhz0gkZ5hSBvZFHSIzD13Hw_RSu900rdtv8wpZojVo8W6C4yPF8_I28WylzkdPSkIFcojuA7a9XoKWKGhMrXjjfQ0IXz_jUyhDBrSo03RVu4kaDJR6RvC2zUZwHZY90fzmDG7X9-YUo8xS6iee6YKypFy69kM2jEZwd-NWNq2rukmaw==&amp;c=vcGzcE7ES4U-72ZgQjM_1INhPsSyf8TN0lojEwfoXWEVWnI1bxtXsQ==&amp;ch=TkZG5GmWrdKTh5Jw5YoMkiYHC_jq6hlu-e-5PO8T8ptqzslB0GIiOg==" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f%3D001bF02fzZgLXuZ8Zv8dsJeMadETIS2ljmTdx4ES0PZ1rW284UQz18B4B8jG4_VAGjxkSN1oReQhz0gkZ5hSBvZFHSIzD13Hw_RSu900rdtv8wpZojVo8W6C4yPF8_I28WylzkdPSkIFcojuA7a9XoKWKGhMrXjjfQ0IXz_jUyhDBrSo03RVu4kaDJR6RvC2zUZwHZY90fzmDG7X9-YUo8xS6iee6YKypFy69kM2jEZwd-NWNq2rukmaw%3D%3D%26c%3DvcGzcE7ES4U-72ZgQjM_1INhPsSyf8TN0lojEwfoXWEVWnI1bxtXsQ%3D%3D%26ch%3DTkZG5GmWrdKTh5Jw5YoMkiYHC_jq6hlu-e-5PO8T8ptqzslB0GIiOg%3D%3D&amp;source=gmail&amp;ust=1694626663294000&amp;usg=AOvVaw1AlZBxWooFkLSjppXvvw6z">Help Me Connect website</a>.

What is Early Childhood Family Education (ECFE)?

Authors: Ruegba Bekibele, MBBS; Lily Rubenstein, BSN, PHN; Sheyanga Beecher, CNP, MPH; Stacene Maroushek MD, PhD, MPH
INTRODUCTION
The Minnesota Department of Health Refugee Health Program (MDHRHP) aims to protect and promote the health of newcomer populations in Minnesota. The program assists in coordinating Refugee Health Assessments, supports new arrivals to Minnesota with complex medical needs, trains and supports providers in best practices and analyzes, summarizes, and shares data on newcomer health in Minnesota.
Newcomer populations often have unique clinical needs across the continuum of care. Knowing the steps of medical assessment and intervention before and after the resettlement process are key to being able to provide effective and efficient healthcare.
CASE EXAMPLE
A 10-year-old Afghani girl is brought in by her family for a routine well child check at the pediatric clinic. This visit was coordinated by the local public health agency and medical records have been made available prior to the visit. With the aid of a Pashto interpreter, the provider is able to determine that the family moved to the United States two months ago under the refugee resettlement program. The family shares their records of the overseas medical exam and immunization history paperwork.
A detailed review of systems is positive only for intermittent abdominal pain. After briefly reviewing the family’s diet, the mom shares the family has been eating more processed foods and packaged meals since arriving in Minnesota. The patient is straining with bowel movements which have been more infrequent than previously. The mother also mentions that the patient was found to have “low blood level” during the patient’s pre-departure screening at the refugee camp in Pakistan. The patient has no other past medical or surgical history. She has no known history of allergies.
Mom also says that the family has been stressed by the recent loss of patient’s paternal grandma who died of tuberculosis (TB) in Kabul last year. Family history is otherwise unremarkable. The patient lives with her parents and five siblings in temporary housing provided by the refugee resettlement program. The family has health insurance coverage under Medical Assistance. The patient and her siblings are enrolled in school. Transportation still remains a concern.
Vital signs: Temp 99.8, HR 107, RR 18, BP 96/54. The patient is tracking along the 15th percentile for weight and 20th percentile for height. Physical examination is remarkable for conjunctival and palmar pallor suggesting mild anemia and multiple carious teeth.
The provider orders a complete blood count with differential, lead test, and interferon gamma release assay (IGRA) TB blood test, Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B and HIV. Review of the patient’s immunization history paperwork and the CDC Childhood and Adolescent Immunization schedule indicates that the patient is due for Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) vaccine and Varicella vaccines for which the family consents. The provider review ways to increase fiber in the new diet and prescribes a course of polyethylene glycol laxative powder. The provider also counsels the family on dental hygiene. A dental referral is placed and the social worker is consulted to help co-ordinate transportation and provide the family with resources for housing. A two-week follow up visit is scheduled.
At the follow-up visit the doctor reviews the results of investigations with the patient’s caregiver. The CBC was remarkable for anemia with hemoglobin of 10g/dl, RDW 17%, MCV 65fL and RBC within normal range. Lead, IGRA TB blood test, Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B, and HIV were all negative. At this follow up visit, the patient initiates the Hepatitis A and B vaccine series and is started on a multi-vitamin with iron. Mother reports the patient is having softer stools and less abdominal pain. She also notes that they have an upcoming appointment with the dental clinic in 2-months’ time. The patient is discharged home with plans to follow up. The provider completes the Refugee Health Assessment Form (<a href="https://nam02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.health.state.mn.us%2Fcommunities%2Frih%2Fhcp%2Fassesfrm.pdf&amp;data=05%7C01%7CSheyanga.beecher%40hcmed.org%7C16928348c60e4f80e50e08db61db4d3c%7Cada0782c5f344003b5d63187f30aecdd%7C0%7C0%7C638211367177421560%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=dHSoADiOqt986tKp0hSZ5lRHLWObc8MEsJBLGmj8qg8%3D&amp;reserved=0">https://www.health.state.mn.us/communities/rih/hcp/assesfrm.pdf</a>) and sends it directly to the local public health contact.
In three months, the patient is brought in by her mother for her follow up appointment. Mom has no new concerns. A review of the growth chart reveals that the patient is now tracking along the 25th percentile for weight and remains at the 15th percentile for height. A repeat CBC and IGRA TB blood test are normal. The patient no longer has abdominal pain. When asked about patient’s mental health and how the family is coping with paternal grandmother’s loss, Mom says the patient is seeing her school counselor. The family still lives in a temporary housing and relies on public transport. Dad is working on getting a job. Mom says they would like to establish care with this provider. The provider reaches out to the social worker to help with community resources for jobs and transportation needs. The social worker gets in touch with the family’s case worker at the local resettlement agency and discusses the families need and plan to address social determinant of health needs in more detail.
DISCUSSION
Immigration and visa status can have implications for one’s health as it determines benefits eligibility and the health care a newcomer may have received prior to and after arrival to the United States. MDHRHP works with arrivals who are eligible to receive Office of Refugee Resettlement benefits, including (but not limited to) refugees, Asylees, Special Immigrant Visa holders, Certified Victims of Human Trafficking, and certain humanitarian parolee groups. This article focuses on two of the largest populations currently served by the MDHRHP, refugees and those with humanitarian parole.
A refugee is someone who has experienced past persecution or has a well-founded fear of persecution on account of their race, religion, nationality, membership in a particular social group, or political opinion.
Humanitarian parole is a temporary status which gives individuals permission to be in the US legally for urgent humanitarian reasons. There are currently programs for those from Ukraine, Haiti, Cuba, Nicaragua, and Venezuela to seek humanitarian parole1,2.
Of note, asking one’s immigration status during a health care exam is not recommended as doing so may cause undue anxiety. However, one can ask about any overseas health screening as a surrogate because it is important to determine whether a patient has received any previous health exams.
Health Care Assessments Before and After Resettlement
Overseas Medical Exam
Those with refugee status receive an Overseas Medical Exam (OME) within six months of departure by a Panel Physician who is selected by the US Embassy and performs OME according to CDC recommendations3. The OME consists of several components including a medical history and physical examination and assessment for diseases of public health significance including Tuberculosis. However, Hepatitis B and HIV screening may not be included. Patients also receive some immunizations that are age-appropriate according to ACIP guidelines and protect against outbreak prone diseases or diseases that have been, or are in the process of being eliminated in the US4. Immunizations depend on availability in the country of departure which may vary. Consequently, refugee arrivals may not have received all ACIP-recommended immunizations at the time of arrival.
Within 1-2 weeks of departure, an abbreviated medical exam is performed (Pre-Departure Medical Exam). At this time, individuals may receive additional lab testing such as a COVID-19 and/or pregnancy test, additional immunizations, and presumptive treatment for parasitic infections5 and malaria6 if clinically appropriate.
The Refugee Health Assessment and Linkage to Primary Care
Thirty to ninety days after arrival in Minnesota, refugee arrivals receive an optional, but strongly recommended, comprehensive health assessment7 coordinated by MDHRHP and local public health agency in the county of residence. This visit is performed by physicians, PAs, and NPs who have been trained by the MDHRHP and consists of a history and physical, infectious disease, lead, and mental health screening, immunizations, and referral to ongoing primary care or specialty care as needed. Results are returned to the MDHRHP and monitored for trends. Aggregate results are shared to state and national partners.
Some Refugee Health Assessments are performed by primary care providers, and some are performed at more specialized clinics such as a city public health clinic. Newcomers may opt to stay with their assessment provider for ongoing primary care or move to a different provider or clinic. Those that receive their assessment at a public health clinic without ongoing primary care services will be referred to an alternate clinic.
Humanitarian parole health requirements
Those with humanitarian parole generally do not receive an OME. They may or may not be eligible to receive a Refugee Health Assessment depending on whether they have been granted Office of Refugee Resettlement benefits. For questions on which populations currently qualify, please reach out to MDHRHP. Several humanitarian parolee groups have health requirements set by the US Citizenship and Immigration Services office. These include, one measles, one polio, and one COVID-19 vaccine prior to departure, and completion of the COVID-19 series and an IGRA test within 90 days of arrival.
Medical records
Newcomers are provided with a copy of their Overseas Medical Exam records. The MDHRHP is also provided with a copy of these exams from the CDC and share them with the Refugee Health Assessment provider. These records hold lab results, immunizations, and history and physical results. A profile in the Minnesota Immunization Information Connection (MIIC) is established once these records are received, generally within 1-2 weeks after arrival. If a newcomer has not received an OME and not received care elsewhere, there may not be a MIIC profile.
Humanitarian parolees may have a copy of their immunization records and IGRA test results, or may be able to provide information on where domestic health care occurred. This information is not routinely collected by the MDHRHP.
For domestic records, determine where the Refugee Health Assessment occurred and request medical records per routine clinic processes. If the patient cannot remember where the RHA took place, please contact MDHRHP.
In addition to refugees, asylees, special immigrant visa holders, certified victims of human trafficking, and certain humanitarian parolee groups, there are other populations of foreign-born children, including unauthorized immigrants without any history of health screenings or immunization records. These patients also seek care in primary care clinics for routine well child checks and require thoughtful assessment and assistance navigating complicated healthcare needs. For additional information, please refer to Screening and Healthcare of Immigrant Children8 and the American Academy of Pediatrics toolkit on serving immigrant children <a href="https://downloads.aap.org/AAP/PDF/cocp_toolkit_full.pdf">https://downloads.aap.org/AAP/PDF/cocp_toolkit_full.pdf</a>
Works Cited
<ol>
<li>US Citizenship and Immigration Services. (2023, July 12). Process for Cubans, Haitians, Nicaraguans, and Venezuelans. <a href="https://www.uscis.gov/CHNV">https://www.uscis.gov/CHNV</a></li>
<li>US Citizenship and Immigration Services. (2023, July 12). Uniting for Ukraine. <a href="https://www.uscis.gov/ukraine">https://www.uscis.gov/ukraine</a></li>
<li>Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2019, October 16). Immigrant, refugee and migrant health, Panel physicians. <a href="https://www.cdc.gov/immigrantrefugeehealth/panel-physicians/introduction-background.html">https://www.cdc.gov/immigrantrefugeehealth/panel-physicians/introduction-background.html</a>.</li>
<li>Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2023, May 12). Immigrant, refugee and migrant health, Panel physicians on vaccines. <a href="https://www.cdc.gov/immigrantrefugeehealth/panel-physicians/vaccinations.html#:~:text=The%20panel%20physician%20must%20counsel,the%20vaccines%20they%20are%20using">https://www.cdc.gov/immigrantrefugeehealth/panel-physicians/vaccinations.html#:~:text=The%20panel%20physician%20must%20counsel,the%20vaccines%20they%20are%20using</a>.</li>
<li>Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2021, March 16). Presumptive treatment and screening for strongyloidiasis, infections caused by other soil-transmitted helminths, and schistosomiasis among newly arrived refugees. <a href="https://www.cdc.gov/immigrantrefugeehealth/guidelines/domestic/intestinal-parasites-domestic.html">https://www.cdc.gov/immigrantrefugeehealth/guidelines/domestic/intestinal-parasites-domestic.html</a>.</li>
<li>Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2019, September 13). Presumptive treatment of P. falciparum Malaria in refugees relocating from sub-Saharan Africa to the United States. <a href="https://www.cdc.gov/immigrantrefugeehealth/guidelines/domestic/malaria-guidelines-domestic.html">https://www.cdc.gov/immigrantrefugeehealth/guidelines/domestic/malaria-guidelines-domestic.html</a></li>
<li>Minnesota Department of Health. (2023, March 3). Minnesota Domestic Refugee Health Screening Guidance. <a href="https://www.health.state.mn.us/communities/rih/guide/index.html">https://www.health.state.mn.us/communities/rih/guide/index.html</a>.</li>
<li>Maroushek, SR. Screening and Healthcare of Immigrant Children, In: Nelson Textbook of Pediatrics, 20th Edition. Editors: Robert Kliegman, Richard Behrman, Hal Jenson, and Bonita Stanton. Elsevier Press, Philadelphia, PA, (2015).</li>
</ol>

Caring for a Newcomer Patient During the Initial Well Child Check in Pediatric Primary Care

The AAP National Rural Adolescent and Child Health (NRACH) ECHO Training Center in partnership with the University of Minnesota Healthy Youth Development-Prevention Research Center (UMN HYD-PRC) is recruiting Primary Care Clinicians and other health professionals in rural, frontier, and underserved areas who serve pediatric populations to be a part of a five-month Rural Pediatrics: Adolescent Health Communication ECHO.
This ECHO will serve as a forum for primary care providers and others that provide care to adolescent patients to develop effective communication strategies and skills that will enable them to facilitate conversations around sensitive and/or psychosocial health topics with adolescents and their families.
The ECHO will begin with a Kickoff call on Aug. 18, 2023, from 12 pm- 1 pm CT and will generally meet on the 1st and 3rd Fridays of each month 12 pm -1 pm, from September to December 2023.
<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=0012VVuDtn17Y1Dg_SZXEIPGLkaehMwuNBh7WktBmZQQHNbMQZs5sN4tbnl2MyVnJwdSLavQMVYW1eRfLNHKeylxaWpYQxJav07A109fg5KN81_hAm3trLLV7mkAMc3ed0IdqK8uUO6ZRX18cNiIGPjdr2McS0zpuzQjTUkH7kCZnI=&amp;c=T8S1M1qaC1JblWla1dwxkyJhWIfhzKw9aTL8b11WvEHtO6WaJptuJw==&amp;ch=paVVyKEyn0b2vlgFe8S-kmyVIraiZ4eT9S8oSXV7DsZ4uANNMmlHIQ==" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f%3D0012VVuDtn17Y1Dg_SZXEIPGLkaehMwuNBh7WktBmZQQHNbMQZs5sN4tbnl2MyVnJwdSLavQMVYW1eRfLNHKeylxaWpYQxJav07A109fg5KN81_hAm3trLLV7mkAMc3ed0IdqK8uUO6ZRX18cNiIGPjdr2McS0zpuzQjTUkH7kCZnI%3D%26c%3DT8S1M1qaC1JblWla1dwxkyJhWIfhzKw9aTL8b11WvEHtO6WaJptuJw%3D%3D%26ch%3DpaVVyKEyn0b2vlgFe8S-kmyVIraiZ4eT9S8oSXV7DsZ4uANNMmlHIQ%3D%3D&amp;source=gmail&amp;ust=1692108799006000&amp;usg=AOvVaw39693uml8FHQQjCGSzg0Ti">Register Online Here</a>
Questions? Contact Oyin Oloniniyi, Program Manager, ECHO Initiatives at <a href="mailto:ooloniniyi@aap.org" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">ooloniniyi@aap.org</a>.
This project is supported by the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) of the US Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) as part of an award totaling $475,000 with 100% funded by HRSA/HHS. The contents are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily represent the official views of, nor an endorsement by HRSA, HHS or the US Government.

Now Recruiting AAP Rural Pediatrics: Adolescent Health Communication ECHO

The American Cancer Society, in partnership with the National HPV Vaccination Roundtable and the Indiana Immunization Coalition, is launching a six-part provider education virtual series. The on-demand sessions will range in topics and equip providers with the latest information, HPV vaccination guidelines, science, and implementation strategies to increase vaccination rates. CME will be offered for each webinar.
In addition, you are invited to take part in a live, panel discussion on Thursday, Aug. 17, from 12-1 p.m.
Click <a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=0012VVuDtn17Y1Dg_SZXEIPGLkaehMwuNBh7WktBmZQQHNbMQZs5sN4tbnl2MyVnJwdwFMCkbbJ2nU3IwAy7dWoS7j5GEfEFK0bYdC2lLuMey0UyffBdQfkwcNXUQEqypQn04wd-1dTy6fe9v7rizqR18fQN_49X5nH7bFNhL7wJPHHfirrgSgJg88RZ6mm9AxiRVnjpq1LaHfDpyYBhczMDw==&amp;c=T8S1M1qaC1JblWla1dwxkyJhWIfhzKw9aTL8b11WvEHtO6WaJptuJw==&amp;ch=paVVyKEyn0b2vlgFe8S-kmyVIraiZ4eT9S8oSXV7DsZ4uANNMmlHIQ==" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f%3D0012VVuDtn17Y1Dg_SZXEIPGLkaehMwuNBh7WktBmZQQHNbMQZs5sN4tbnl2MyVnJwdwFMCkbbJ2nU3IwAy7dWoS7j5GEfEFK0bYdC2lLuMey0UyffBdQfkwcNXUQEqypQn04wd-1dTy6fe9v7rizqR18fQN_49X5nH7bFNhL7wJPHHfirrgSgJg88RZ6mm9AxiRVnjpq1LaHfDpyYBhczMDw%3D%3D%26c%3DT8S1M1qaC1JblWla1dwxkyJhWIfhzKw9aTL8b11WvEHtO6WaJptuJw%3D%3D%26ch%3DpaVVyKEyn0b2vlgFe8S-kmyVIraiZ4eT9S8oSXV7DsZ4uANNMmlHIQ%3D%3D&amp;source=gmail&amp;ust=1692108799006000&amp;usg=AOvVaw1_BYPt-vzM6KMBxoEteGuv">here</a> to register for access to the on-demand sessions and receive more information about the live panel discussion.

On-Demand Webinar Sessions Offer Strategies for HPV Vaccine Rates

<a href="http://www.mnaap.org/mnaap-honored-by-aap-for-equity-diversity-inclusion-work/img_0303/" rel="attachment wp-att-4208"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="wp-image-4208 size-medium alignleft" src="http://www.mnaap.org/wp-lib/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/IMG_0303-e1692023787146-225x300.jpg" alt="" width="225" height="300" /></a>The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recognized the Minnesota chapter&#8217;s work in equity, diversity, and inclusion at the recent Annual Leadership Conference at the AAP headquarters in Illinois on August 3 &#8211; 6.
Chapter President Eileen Crespo, MD, FAAP, (pictured on right) and President-Elect Katie Smentek, MD, FAAP, (picture on left) attended the conference and accepted the Inspire Award on behalf of the chapter.
MNAAP recognizes that racism and race-based violence create unsafe and unhealthy environments. Racism must be addressed on all levels: from racial inequities that are embedded in systems, policies, and practices to individual and professional accountability and transformation.
MNAAP&#8217;s efforts were prompted by the tragic murder of George Floyd in May 2020, and since that time the chapter has:
<ul>
<li>established an anti-racism task force (which later formalized as the Anti-Racism &amp; Disparities work group)</li>
<li>appointed an Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion chapter champion and added this role to the chapter&#8217;s executive committee</li>
<li>endowed the Justice, Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (JEDI) fund which commits chapter financial resources to</li>
<li>secured a consultant to review the chapter&#8217;s history and current operations to ensure equity, diversity, and inclusion guide decisions and initiatives</li>
<li>looked for opportunities to amplify the work and voice of those actively working to dismantle systemic racism</li>
</ul>
&nbsp;
&nbsp;

MNAAP Honored by AAP for Equity, Diversity, Inclusion Work

The recent tragic news in Minnesota that <a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=0012VVuDtn17Y1Dg_SZXEIPGLkaehMwuNBh7WktBmZQQHNbMQZs5sN4tbnl2MyVnJwdH9drxlntk3sjgVdRhIrIKUHO4peIwlBJgJ3ZHQvzbsihYcz1ONSrVXW6eVu0xSpRbbgeeu8mscFvdy27J4s2w2pQ2pEb8FXW-KgiXlqDRz4xhvqwkaxgZkCiGInpEVxtGor5RYYbZYAXuhmCJEXUySRAdBDkv8Xiwgs-GhTIJITxCrXoEDoKx_zvWRW1YbTLdLNETpqNUcg6A3YIisn5NT4kWNthKuOq3uadLyJ2W-I=&amp;c=T8S1M1qaC1JblWla1dwxkyJhWIfhzKw9aTL8b11WvEHtO6WaJptuJw==&amp;ch=paVVyKEyn0b2vlgFe8S-kmyVIraiZ4eT9S8oSXV7DsZ4uANNMmlHIQ==" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f%3D0012VVuDtn17Y1Dg_SZXEIPGLkaehMwuNBh7WktBmZQQHNbMQZs5sN4tbnl2MyVnJwdH9drxlntk3sjgVdRhIrIKUHO4peIwlBJgJ3ZHQvzbsihYcz1ONSrVXW6eVu0xSpRbbgeeu8mscFvdy27J4s2w2pQ2pEb8FXW-KgiXlqDRz4xhvqwkaxgZkCiGInpEVxtGor5RYYbZYAXuhmCJEXUySRAdBDkv8Xiwgs-GhTIJITxCrXoEDoKx_zvWRW1YbTLdLNETpqNUcg6A3YIisn5NT4kWNthKuOq3uadLyJ2W-I%3D%26c%3DT8S1M1qaC1JblWla1dwxkyJhWIfhzKw9aTL8b11WvEHtO6WaJptuJw%3D%3D%26ch%3DpaVVyKEyn0b2vlgFe8S-kmyVIraiZ4eT9S8oSXV7DsZ4uANNMmlHIQ%3D%3D&amp;source=gmail&amp;ust=1692108799005000&amp;usg=AOvVaw1dxToHWnS7_8dOuT9carWu">two young lives </a>were lost in separate <a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=0012VVuDtn17Y1Dg_SZXEIPGLkaehMwuNBh7WktBmZQQHNbMQZs5sN4tbnl2MyVnJwdra2cVP-R86Hn70o8WTsmPGVUs-GuNr0zmdXHlwNL01CBiYfew4Q0Sbv5xkieZdLoSrakXoEcy7kjsG2d16s3Gp4pdXXFdDFwdQdl2bPiiZVHpKpwXvhbe2E_4zzkpJBsr_5t1tvvuFgOh4DIwc7ikvozq01vy9PqoNXCfwcPGXnWEqQwBPBjih1ARnfkK41k1kHtfn-pUPrhVx6wLZzQw27lVqC5jYktb00o8FCxSIitiDP4vy_FVK5BCIiBTQ4m92duncp4jFvsJ0esMa5T4Q==&amp;c=T8S1M1qaC1JblWla1dwxkyJhWIfhzKw9aTL8b11WvEHtO6WaJptuJw==&amp;ch=paVVyKEyn0b2vlgFe8S-kmyVIraiZ4eT9S8oSXV7DsZ4uANNMmlHIQ==" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f%3D0012VVuDtn17Y1Dg_SZXEIPGLkaehMwuNBh7WktBmZQQHNbMQZs5sN4tbnl2MyVnJwdra2cVP-R86Hn70o8WTsmPGVUs-GuNr0zmdXHlwNL01CBiYfew4Q0Sbv5xkieZdLoSrakXoEcy7kjsG2d16s3Gp4pdXXFdDFwdQdl2bPiiZVHpKpwXvhbe2E_4zzkpJBsr_5t1tvvuFgOh4DIwc7ikvozq01vy9PqoNXCfwcPGXnWEqQwBPBjih1ARnfkK41k1kHtfn-pUPrhVx6wLZzQw27lVqC5jYktb00o8FCxSIitiDP4vy_FVK5BCIiBTQ4m92duncp4jFvsJ0esMa5T4Q%3D%3D%26c%3DT8S1M1qaC1JblWla1dwxkyJhWIfhzKw9aTL8b11WvEHtO6WaJptuJw%3D%3D%26ch%3DpaVVyKEyn0b2vlgFe8S-kmyVIraiZ4eT9S8oSXV7DsZ4uANNMmlHIQ%3D%3D&amp;source=gmail&amp;ust=1692108799005000&amp;usg=AOvVaw1v48Dx1YlrU80NruYA7xD1">accidental firearm deaths</a> underscores the importance of discussing safety with patients and families. MNAAP has long advocated for firearm violence prevention measures, and while some progress is being made at the legislative level, much of the prevention and awareness begins at home.
The American Academy of Pediatrics&#8217; website <a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=0012VVuDtn17Y1Dg_SZXEIPGLkaehMwuNBh7WktBmZQQHNbMQZs5sN4tbnl2MyVnJwdeXrBl5uFfFmbCEiXndkis8DtiM5efUUJitCOITzhXrtvaPuF1YK-7KNB8v_Q5lD2lFlHpGa5MDZqc8TKmgx0sExxC8kyX9fj8qxPZADoQ2gjGbW6CQQ41VeegcNeG0y_doKWY4P0NMy0DUxdzzXUkbKFT-foG-Zw6WX9PESEa-KdVqN-K_nwkSyiyLGVPHR5&amp;c=T8S1M1qaC1JblWla1dwxkyJhWIfhzKw9aTL8b11WvEHtO6WaJptuJw==&amp;ch=paVVyKEyn0b2vlgFe8S-kmyVIraiZ4eT9S8oSXV7DsZ4uANNMmlHIQ==" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f%3D0012VVuDtn17Y1Dg_SZXEIPGLkaehMwuNBh7WktBmZQQHNbMQZs5sN4tbnl2MyVnJwdeXrBl5uFfFmbCEiXndkis8DtiM5efUUJitCOITzhXrtvaPuF1YK-7KNB8v_Q5lD2lFlHpGa5MDZqc8TKmgx0sExxC8kyX9fj8qxPZADoQ2gjGbW6CQQ41VeegcNeG0y_doKWY4P0NMy0DUxdzzXUkbKFT-foG-Zw6WX9PESEa-KdVqN-K_nwkSyiyLGVPHR5%26c%3DT8S1M1qaC1JblWla1dwxkyJhWIfhzKw9aTL8b11WvEHtO6WaJptuJw%3D%3D%26ch%3DpaVVyKEyn0b2vlgFe8S-kmyVIraiZ4eT9S8oSXV7DsZ4uANNMmlHIQ%3D%3D&amp;source=gmail&amp;ust=1692108799006000&amp;usg=AOvVaw0_F_cmC_KmdMdVS-MoE6wu">HealthyChildren.org</a> has extensive resources for families to learn more about the safe storage of firearms, how to keep kids safe at home and in other people&#8217;s homes, and how to discuss firearm violence with children.
Additionally, MNAAP offers the recorded webinar, &#8220;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=0012VVuDtn17Y1Dg_SZXEIPGLkaehMwuNBh7WktBmZQQHNbMQZs5sN4tbnl2MyVnJwdY6YJpacsRm4cvGgPtfmWL8_yZvReS4EMqAQH5dk5hIeQ7C8UW2ZHksxapMZp1v0FelFOXpCbHjwP-1RRN6LvXQ==&amp;c=T8S1M1qaC1JblWla1dwxkyJhWIfhzKw9aTL8b11WvEHtO6WaJptuJw==&amp;ch=paVVyKEyn0b2vlgFe8S-kmyVIraiZ4eT9S8oSXV7DsZ4uANNMmlHIQ==" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f%3D0012VVuDtn17Y1Dg_SZXEIPGLkaehMwuNBh7WktBmZQQHNbMQZs5sN4tbnl2MyVnJwdY6YJpacsRm4cvGgPtfmWL8_yZvReS4EMqAQH5dk5hIeQ7C8UW2ZHksxapMZp1v0FelFOXpCbHjwP-1RRN6LvXQ%3D%3D%26c%3DT8S1M1qaC1JblWla1dwxkyJhWIfhzKw9aTL8b11WvEHtO6WaJptuJw%3D%3D%26ch%3DpaVVyKEyn0b2vlgFe8S-kmyVIraiZ4eT9S8oSXV7DsZ4uANNMmlHIQ%3D%3D&amp;source=gmail&amp;ust=1692108799006000&amp;usg=AOvVaw1j9USpAcWSzQ-LA_uoOwPR">Firearm Violence Prevention: Counseling Parents about Safe Gun Storage Practices at the Practice Level</a>&#8221; which was presented by Andrew Kiragu, MD, FAAP, Sheldon Berkowitz, MD, FAAP, and Gretchen Karstens, MD, FAAP in January 2020.

Talk with Families About Safe Firearm Storage

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<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="443" height="577" src="https://wp.mnaap.org/wp-lib/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/Screenshot-2023-08-17-at-1.19.35-PM.png" alt="Summer 2023 Minnesota Pediatrician Cover" class="wp-image-4401" srcset="https://wp.mnaap.org/wp-lib/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/Screenshot-2023-08-17-at-1.19.35-PM.png 443w, https://wp.mnaap.org/wp-lib/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/Screenshot-2023-08-17-at-1.19.35-PM-230x300.png 230w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 443px) 100vw, 443px" /></figure>
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View the Summer 2023 Minnesota Pediatrician issue as a PDF :  <a href="https://wp.mnaap.org/wp-lib/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/Fall-2023-MN-Ped-For-Web.pdf">Summer 2023 Minnesota Pediatrician For Web</a>



<a href="/word-from-the-president-eileen-crespo-md-faap-3/">Word from the President: Eileen Crespo, MD, FAAP</a>



<a href="/busy-legislative-session-comes-to-a-close/">Busy Legislative Session Comes to a Close</a>



<a href="/moc4-cohort-examines-teen-mental-health-screening-process-to-improve-experience/">MOC4 Cohort Examines Teen Mental Health Screening Process to Improve Experience</a>



<a href="/scholarship-inspires-advocacy-and-action-for-inaugural-recipients/">Scholarship Inspires Advocacy and Action for Inaugural Recipients</a>



<a href="/member-spotlight-adam-langenfeld-md-phd-faap/">Member Spotlight: Adam Langenfeld, MD, PhD, FAAP</a>



<a href="/childrens-minnesota-opens-first-of-its-kind-imri-neurosurgery-suite-in-north-america/">Children&#8217;s Minnesota Opens First-of-its-Kind iMRI Neurosurgery Suite in North America</a>
</div>
</div>

Summer 2023 Minnesota Pediatrician

<figure id="attachment_4192" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-4192" style="width: 150px" class="wp-caption alignleft"><a href="http://www.mnaap.org/childrens-minnesota-opens-first-of-its-kind-imri-neurosurgery-suite-in-north-america/meysam_mb1/" rel="attachment wp-att-4192"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="size-thumbnail wp-image-4192" src="http://www.mnaap.org/wp-lib/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/meysam_MB1-150x150.png" alt="" width="150" height="150" /></a><figcaption id="caption-attachment-4192" class="wp-caption-text">Dr. Meysam Kebriaei, Children&#8217;s Minnesota</figcaption></figure>
In my decade of service as a pediatric neurosurgeon at Children’s Minnesota, I have performed more than 1,400 procedures on fetal patients, children and adolescents with diagnoses such as epilepsy, brain and spine tumors, and traumatic brain injuries. No matter the diagnosis or procedure, I’ve learned several factors remain the same when it comes to delivering consistent positive patient outcomes. Those critical factors are the clinical expertise of a multi-disciplinary team, partnering throughout the continuum of care, and having the technology at our disposal to care for patients.
In March 2023, Children’s Minnesota debuted a gamechanger in intraoperative magnetic resonance imaging (iMRI) technology. That’s when the Richard M. Schulze Family Foundat ion iMRI Surgical Suite – the first facility of its kind in North America – opened at our Minneapolis hospital. If you’re wondering what makes this 2,970 square-foot, three-room neurosurgery suite the only one of its kind on the continent – it’s the first pediatric hybrid iMRI suite equipped with both moving-scanner and moving-patient MRI technology in the same surgical space. Now, Children’s Minnesota’s neurosciences program and radiology department use the facility to perform both brain and total spine scans mid-procedure directly at the point of care.
<a href="http://www.mnaap.org/childrens-minnesota-opens-first-of-its-kind-imri-neurosurgery-suite-in-north-america/imri-8221/" rel="attachment wp-att-4193"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignleft size-large wp-image-4193" src="http://www.mnaap.org/wp-lib/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/iMRI-8221-1024x683.jpg" alt="" width="1024" height="683" /></a>The iMRI suite’s design allows experts to seamlessly move a 16,200-pound MRI scanner directly from the facility’s diagnostic room into one of the space’s neurosurgery operating rooms via a ceiling-mounted rail system. The floorplan also allows patients in the suite’s second operating room to be moved next door into the diagnostic room for a mid-procedure MRI. Its design also allows procedures to take place in both operating rooms as the scanner is being used in the diagnostic room simultaneously. Simply put, the iMRI suite enhances how my team makes important decisions at the point of care before a patient’s incision is closed. For example, if a mid-procedure scan detects additional tumors, our team can develop a plan in real-time to remove the remaining cancerous tissue. This crucial process will help prevent additional procedures for many of our patients and maximize their chances for a good outcome. The strength of the MRI scanner in the suite, measured in the unit of Tesla (T), is also a significant upgrade. The suite’s 3T MRI scanner, compared to 1.5T or smaller scanners at other medical facilities, makes a major difference in the quality of each scan used to locate and remove remaining cancerous tissue. I often compare the clarity of our new facility’s 3T scanner to watching an ultra-high-definition TV rather than a standard TV.
To date, our team has performed more than a dozen procedures in this state-of-the-art facility. The Richard M. Schulze Family Foundation iMRI Surgical Suite – which shares its namesake with the philanthropic foundation that generously committed a $5.5 million lead gift to the facility – is another arrow in our quiver to provide the best care possible at Children’s Minnesota.
If you would like to refer a patient or connect with a Children’s Minnesota kid expert 24/7, call the Children’s Minnesota Physician Access line at 866-755-2121.
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This information was provided by Children&#8217;s Minnesota, a MNAAP annual sponsor.

Children’s Minnesota Opens First-of-its-Kind iMRI Neurosurgery Suite in North America

Engaging in advocacy activities can feel daunting for a medical school student or pediatric resident. From choosing an advocacy topic, to setting up meetings with legislators or collaborative partners, to following the progress of related policies and proposed bills – there is a lot to consider. For two MNAAP members, participating in a newly formed scholarship helped them navigate their advocacy experiences in a way that each says was rewarding and inspiring.
<figure id="attachment_4188" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-4188" style="width: 150px" class="wp-caption alignleft"><a href="http://www.mnaap.org/scholarship-inspires-advocacy-and-action-for-inaugural-recipients/wendy-sun-headshot/" rel="attachment wp-att-4188"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="wp-image-4188 size-thumbnail" src="http://www.mnaap.org/wp-lib/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/Wendy-Sun-headshot-150x150.jpeg" alt="" width="150" height="150" /></a><figcaption id="caption-attachment-4188" class="wp-caption-text">Dr. Wendy Sun</figcaption></figure>
<figure id="attachment_4187" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-4187" style="width: 150px" class="wp-caption alignleft"><a href="http://www.mnaap.org/scholarship-inspires-advocacy-and-action-for-inaugural-recipients/sarah-swenson-headshot/" rel="attachment wp-att-4187"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="size-thumbnail wp-image-4187" src="http://www.mnaap.org/wp-lib/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/Sarah-Swenson-Headshot-150x150.jpeg" alt="" width="150" height="150" /></a><figcaption id="caption-attachment-4187" class="wp-caption-text">Dr. Sarah Swenson</figcaption></figure>
Dr. Wendy Sun and Dr. Sarah Swenson are the inaugural recipients of the Eric Dick Advocacy Scholarship. The scholarship formed when a MNAAP board member wanted to honor longtime chapter lobbyist, Eric Dick, after his sudden passing in January of 2021. Eric was deeply committed to improving the health and wellbeing of every child in Minnesota and he not only personally fought for policies to achieve this goal, but also engaged so many beyond himself in the legislative process. The Eric Dick Memorial Advocacy Scholarship is awarded annually to one or more fellows, residents, medical students or trainees each year to engage in legislative advocacy projects aimed at improving the health and wellbeing of children in Minnesota – particularly those focused on eliminating health disparities. 
Drs. Sun and Swenson took different approaches to their advocacy projects but found the support from the chapter provided an important foundation to engage in the work as champions for their causes.
Dr. Sun is a pediatric resident who says she has always been interested in advocacy work and was looking for an advocacy mentor when MNAAP Treasurer Janna Gewirtz O’Brien encouraged her to apply for the scholarship. 
“Advocacy is something that has brought me a lot of meaning in my work on top of my clinical work. In our clinic work we aren’t always able to address the higher systems that create disparities for our patients,” said Dr. Sun.
After meeting virtually with MNAAP leadership and receiving an orientation about the legislative process, Dr. Sun was able to zero in on school-based mental health as her area of interest. Chapter lobbyist Chad Fahning played a role in helping connect her with the issue, which was already receiving attention at the Capitol. It was a particularly meaningful topic, she said, because school-based mental health services are a good way to address disparities. It can remove the financial barrier or the challenge of taking time out of a work or school day for an appointment. In her work at Hennepin Healthcare she said she often sees teens who need mental health help, but they have parents with a stigma or a cultural concern about mental health services.
“I see kids hanging on by a thread and the first thing I say is, ‘where do you go to school?’ to see how I can connect them with school-based mental health services,” explained Dr. Sun. 
As part of her advocacy project, Dr. Sun was able to meet with Senator Erin Maye Quade and Representative Robert Bierman. She voiced support for HF564, which allocates 25 percent of new funding to target providers that can serve schools that have high special education or a high rate of families experiencing poverty, especially in rural and urban settings. She also learned how to prepare a testimony and be ready to present if the opportunity arose. 
Dr. Sun says even though the work for her project is complete, she wants to build on the connections she formed with other mental health advocates to address systemic issues. It left her energized to stay involved in advocacy work: “I’ve been asking myself – what’s the next step?” she said.
For Dr. Sarah Swenson, she knows exactly when and where her advocacy interests took root. As a teen, she was a hospital volunteer and saw firsthand the importance of perinatal mental health support for families of babies in the NICU. She witnessed the strain having a baby in the NICU for an extended stay can have on parents, affecting their ability to be present for their child and preserve their own mental health. A stay in the NICU can be a potentially traumatic event for families, she said.
“I saw the scholarship and thought, ‘what an opportunity to receive some mentorship so I can move things from bothering me to addressing them,’ “ she said. Dr. Swenson reached out to MNAAP Policy Co-Chair Hannah Lichtsinn, MD, FAAP. Dr. Lichtsinn helped Dr. Swenson work through her ideas about perinatal mental health to refine a potential solution for the problem she was seeing in the families of her NICU patients. 
Dr. Swenson focused her advocacy scholarship project on initiating policy change that would allow for a Medicaid waiver in which out-of-state-parents who traveled to Minnesota to receive NICU services for their children could be screened for mental health services themselves and receive care while they are in Minnesota. Insurance and financial barriers are often the reason a referred family member does not following through to treatment for their perinatal mental health. 
Such a shift in policy requires a long-term approach, but she says she’s made some good connections so far to help continue the conversation even after this legislative session (and the term of the advocacy scholarship project) are over. “I got connected with the Policy Center for Maternal Mental Health and NAMI. I’m planning to meet and collaborate with Sen. Bonnie Westlin to see if we could do something like a resolution or form a task force to better understand perinatal mental health needs in the state,” explained Dr. Swenson. 
When asked if they would encourage interested residents or medical students to apply for the next round of Eric Dick Advocacy Scholarships, both Drs. Sun and Swenson gave a heartfelt endorsement of the program. 
“I am 100% biased,” laughed Dr. Sun, “but absolutely. Interested people should apply. As trainees, we are digging out of the pandemic hole, and now we are so much more aware of the systemic problems that exist. This is a way to address those issues.”
Dr. Swenson pointed out that the scholarship is a great way to move past any self-imposed barriers. 
“I would tell a scholarship recipient: imposter syndrome can be a barrier to trying to do this type of work and trying to do new things like advocacy. So although there are barriers such as time, or confidence, or knowledge to doing this type of work, I would encourage people to pursue it and not let that get in the way. There are great mentors who can help you. You don’t have to be an expert in policy to try and make meaningful change that affects the health and wellbeing of your patients and families.”
The Eric Dick Memorial Advocacy Scholarship is fully funded for the next round of interested participants. The application link will be shared in an upcoming All Member Email from the chapter. 
<hr />
<figure id="attachment_2975" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-2975" style="width: 200px" class="wp-caption alignleft"><a href="http://www.mnaap.org/unusual-legislative-session-leads-to-unique-election-season/eric-head-shot-2018-1/" rel="attachment wp-att-2975"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="size-medium wp-image-2975" src="http://www.mnaap.org/wp-lib/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/Eric-Head-Shot-2018-1-200x300.jpg" alt="" width="200" height="300" /></a><figcaption id="caption-attachment-2975" class="wp-caption-text">Late MNAAP Lobbyist Eric Dick</figcaption></figure>
<h3 class="p1">Consider Giving to the Eric Dick Memorial Scholarship</h3>
The Eric Dick Memorial Scholarship was seeded with a generous, 10-year financial commitment from a MNAAP board member who wanted to see Eric’s legacy continued through the members of the MNAAP.
Eric worked tirelessly to advocate on behalf of Minnesota’s children and teens, and was passionate about helping medical students and early career physicians learn the ropes of legislative advocacy.
We invite you to consider contributing to the scholarship fund in order to help many more recipients to benefit from training and support as they launch their own advocacy projects.
To give, you can visit the Foundation’s webpage at <a href="http://www.mnaap.org/mapf/">mnaap.org/mapf</a> and click the donate button, or mail a check, made payable to the Minnesota Academy of Pediatrics Foundation, to the address below. Please include “Eric Dick Memorial Advocacy Scholarship” in the memo line.
Minnesota Academy of Pediatrics Foundation
c/o Jeff Bauer, Executive Director
1609 County Road 42 W. #305
Burnsville, MN 55306

Scholarship Inspires Advocacy and Action for Inaugural Recipients

<a href="http://www.mnaap.org/moc4-cohort-examines-teen-mental-health-screening-process-to-improve-experience/pexels-monstera-7114755/" rel="attachment wp-att-4183"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignleft size-medium wp-image-4183" src="http://www.mnaap.org/wp-lib/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/pexels-monstera-7114755-300x200.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="200" /></a>The first cohort of the Minnesota Pediatric Mental Health Access Program MOC4 project is underway, having gathered via Zoom for its launch meeting in early May. 
The project, which is made possible with grant funding provided by the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) and the federal Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA), aims to improve the mental health screening and referral process for BIPOC and LGBTQ adolescents. 
Integration of mental and behavioral health services into the pediatric primary care setting offers opportunity to increase access to culturally-relevant behavioral and mental health services and decrease barriers to care, especially those faced by children and youth from underserved racial, ethnic, geographic and lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender backgrounds. MNAAP is partnering with the Minnesota Department of Health (MDH) to provide the training to enrolled providers and clinics. 
Five clinics are participating in the MOC4 module that runs through August: CentraCare, Essentia Health, St. Luke’s, MHealth Fairview in Blaine, and Allina in Eagan. As part of the project, providers and clinic staff will collect data about current adolescent mental health screening and referral practices. 
Objectives of the MOC4 include: 
Increase provider/clinic rates of mental health or depression screening (using MDH identified screening tools) among patients 12-20 years of age attending Child &amp; Teen Checkups or preventive health visits, particularly in rural or underserved areas of the state.
Increase the rate of documented consultation visits or referrals to mental health professional supports and services for those patients who screen positive for mental health concerns.
Increase the rate of documented completed follow-up by type (primary care based mental health/behavioral health services, community-based mental health/behavioral health services, or other) for those patients who screen positive for mental health concerns.
Document the comments from participating providers/clinicians uncovered in the audits related to gaps, barriers or lost to follow-up concerns
Two webinars will be presented to the group: the first will feature pediatricians with expertise in providing care and facilitating mental health support for BIPOC and LGBTQ patients; the second will be presented by members of a youth advisory council who will offer their own feedback about the mental health process. 
The youth leader component of the project is essential, explained MNAAP Executive Director Jeff Bauer: “The youth voice will be centered in this project. We are seeking improvements to the process for BIPOC and LGBTQ youth and the point is for them to feel safe, seen, and supported.” 
According to Minnesota Community Measurement, half of all lifetime cases of mental illness begin by age 14. Anxiety disorders are the most common mental health condition among young people, particularly BIPOC and LGBTQI+ youth. But many young people are never treated &#8211; or not until they’re in crisis. As cohort members introduced themselves during the first meeting, many commented on how excited they were to begin the work of addressing adolescent mental health &#8212; saying it was a much needed focus for their patients and families.
Community partners for the project include Lutheran Social Service of Minnesota, Family Partnership, and Rainbow Health. The Psychiatric Assistance Line (PAL) is also participating. Psychiatric Assistance Line (PAL) provides free consultative and referral services for medical providers in Minnesota. Through the PAL program, Minnesota medical providers receive triaged consultation and referrals for patients who experience mental and emotional health issues.  A goal outcome of the project is to enhance the quality and reach of the PAL program. 
Physicians participating in the MOC4 project can receive up to 25 MOC4 credits, and each participating clinic receives $4,000 to support quality improvement-related activities. A second cohort will form in the fall. If you are interested in learning more about participating in the next cohort, email MNAAP Executive Director Jeff Bauer at <a href="mailto:bauer@mnaap.org">bauer@mnaap.org</a>.

MOC4 Cohort Examines Teen Mental Health Screening Process to Improve Experience

<figure id="attachment_3502" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-3502" style="width: 240px" class="wp-caption alignleft"><a href="http://www.mnaap.org/board-members/chad-fahning-photo-headshot/" rel="attachment wp-att-3502"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="size-medium wp-image-3502" src="http://www.mnaap.org/wp-lib/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/Chad-Fahning-Photo-headshot-240x300.png" alt="" width="240" height="300" /></a><figcaption id="caption-attachment-3502" class="wp-caption-text">Chad Fahning, MNAAP Lobbyist</figcaption></figure>
With the legislature now adjourned until February 2024, many commentators have labeled the 2023 legislative session as “historic.” In hindsight, few groups have a better claim to that word when describing the impact of the policies passed this year than Minnesota’s children and families.
The legislature was busy this session – the busiest many have seen in decades, if ever. DFLers came into the session with an enormous budget surplus, (narrow) control of the Senate, State House, and governor’s office, and a long checklist of progressive priorities. 
At the top of the list were reproductive health items like the Protect Reproductive Options (PRO) Act, Reproductive Freedom Defense Act, and repealing obstructions to abortion services. The legislature did not only pass those, but also banned the barbaric practice of so-called “conversion therapy” and authorized legal protection for those providing and seeking gender-affirming care in Minnesota.
Next on the checklist were significant investments into early childhood. Governor Tim Walz, when unveiling his budget proposals, said he wanted to make the Minnesota the “best state for kids and families.” The 2024-25 state budget reflected that intention and includes $1.2 billion of new funding for early childhood initiatives, $800 million for a comprehensive paid family and medica leave program, $200 million for free school meals, the creation of a new Department of Children, Youth, and Families, a child tax credit increase, and much more.
The legislature was also finally able to push through firearm safety measures. Specifically, these measures include expanded background checks for firearm sales and transfers and extreme risk protection orders, or “red flag” laws, so a family member or law enforcement can petition a court to temporarily remove firearms from someone who has been determined to be a harm to themselves or others.
There is still much work to be done. Pediatricians advocated for stricter firearm storage laws and for the removal of the current statute exempting children from public school immunization requirements based on “conscientiously held beliefs.” These items did not make it across the finish line this year, but that does not mean we should ignore all the great bills that became law this year. 
I do not have the space in this article to list everything that will help kids be safe, healthy, and happy. I want to extend my gratitude to those who engaged in advocacy efforts this session. Pediatricians were at the forefront of the public discussion and will need to continue that going forward. In the meantime, though, we should hold our collective heads high and celebrate this year’s legislative session and the impact it will have on Minnesota’s children and families. I can think of no better word to describe it than “historic.”

Busy Legislative Session Comes to a Close

<a href="http://www.mnaap.org/word-from-the-president-eileen-crespo-md-faap/dr-eileen-crespo/" rel="attachment wp-att-3918"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="size-medium wp-image-3918 alignleft" src="http://www.mnaap.org/wp-lib/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/Dr.-Eileen-Crespo-169x300.jpg" alt="" width="169" height="300" /></a>It is no secret that I am a fan of the summertime. In Minnesota, while weather is the universal topic of conversation, summer is the winner. What’s not to like? The warmer weather and the longer days give us a feeling of permission to relax a little and not be so go-go-go with our lives.
Our chapter has certainly earned a little time to catch its collective breath. The legislative session that wrapped up just a few weeks ago proved to be an incredible turning point for many of the priority issues we have been focused on for years. The health and wellbeing of children, teens, and families in Minnesota advanced in ways that will be meaningful and measurable. Thank you to all who helped this legislative session.
The only trouble with summertime is that it sometimes feels too short. Has anyone else already seen school supplies out in the store aisles?! So while I hope you can find pockets of time to enjoy your favorite summer activities and past times, I want to let you know that the next few months hold more excitement for you as a chapter member:
The MNAAP annual meeting will take place Thursday, Sept. 21, from 5-8 p.m. in Minneapolis. We will have a formal program starting at 6 p.m., but otherwise, this is an opportunity for you to connect with colleagues from around the state who you haven’t been able to see in person over these last few years.
The Twin Cities Pediatric Update conference will cover a wide variety of pediatric hot topics on Thursday, Sept. 21, and Friday, Sept. 22. Dr. Roy Guerrero, the pediatrician from Uvalde, Texas, will be one of the keynote speakers. I personally saw his presentation at the AAP national conference and it was so powerful and moving. It is not to be missed.
The annual MNAAP member survey will be sent to you in July. I know a survey request can feel taxing on an already busy schedule, but this is one of the most important opportunities for you to have your voice heard. We use the results of the survey to guide many decision points throughout the year, including setting legislative priorities, seeking CME opportunities, and partnering with collaborators on projects. This year we are working to make the survey quick and easy – I promise you can finish it in less time than it takes for a popsicle to melt!
Be well and enjoy your summer months, and thank you for all you do for Minnesota’s children and teens.
Eileen Crespo, MD, FAAP
MNAAP President
&nbsp;

<div class="wp-block-image">
<figure class="alignleft size-full is-resized"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" src="https://wp.mnaap.org/wp-lib/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/langenfeld-adam-1265894463.jpeg" alt="Adam Langenfeld, MD, PhD, FAAP" class="wp-image-4373" width="250" height="313" srcset="https://wp.mnaap.org/wp-lib/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/langenfeld-adam-1265894463.jpeg 500w, https://wp.mnaap.org/wp-lib/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/langenfeld-adam-1265894463-240x300.jpeg 240w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 250px) 100vw, 250px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Adam Langenfeld, MD, PhD, FAAP</figcaption></figure></div>


What does a typical workday look like for you as a developmental-behavioral pediatrician?&nbsp;



It can vary from day to day!&nbsp; At Children’s Developmental Pediatrics, we currently have a mix of in-person and virtual visits.&nbsp; I typically meet a few new patients each day and then spend the rest of my time seeing patients for follow-up visits.&nbsp;



For new patients, I will review their previous history and any information we have available (typically sometime prior to their visit).&nbsp; On the day of the visit, we discuss their developmental and medical histories in detail; we learn about behavioral concerns, developmental milestones, challenges with sleep or eating, and what kind of support they are already receiving.&nbsp; I usually perform a thorough physical exam as well, although sometimes the patients are not very interested! &nbsp;



We will then talk about next steps, which can include more developmental testing with me or one of our Neuropsychology colleagues, as well as referrals to appropriate therapies or other services.&nbsp; The rest of my day is spent following up with patients for medication management or behavioral concerns, along with answering messages, sending new prescriptions, and communicating with my colleagues about other patients.&nbsp; It can be very busy!



What do you especially like about your specialty?



I love working with our patients and their families.&nbsp; I chose this field of medicine in part for the opportunity to develop long-term relationships with patients and their families.&nbsp; The patients I see can be complex and have many challenges, but they are very resilient and usually do very well with the support of their families.&nbsp; Their parents work hard to provide appropriate support to help bolster their development and to be able to do the things that they want to do.&nbsp; Every patient I meet has a unique story and many positive interests! &nbsp;



Before completing your medical degree, you obtained a PhD in chemistry. Was it always your plan to be a pediatrician? How do you feel this educational path has helped you?



Yes, before being a full-time medical student I was enrolled in graduate school in chemistry.&nbsp; I had a strong interest in pediatrics but felt that I could also contribute to pediatric medicine through science and research.&nbsp; I was enrolled in the Medical Scholars Program at the University of Illinois, which was a unique MD-PhD program that allowed students to pursue graduate studies in fields outside of the “normal” fields offered by most programs.&nbsp; For example, one of my colleagues (now a Med-Peds hospitalist in Pittsburgh) obtained a PhD in History! &nbsp;



When I started, I anticipated being a “bench-to-bedside” researcher, working on genetic disorders in children.&nbsp; My PhD thesis focused on novel treatments for spinal muscular atrophy, a childhood neuromuscular disorder.&nbsp; After completing graduate school, I realized that bench research was not for me, but I retained my interest in pediatrics and neurodevelopmental disorders.&nbsp; My experiences in graduate school gave me a more scientific approach to asking questions, along with a willingness to persist on challenging problems, which has served me well as a Developmental Pediatrician.&nbsp;



Why did you join MNAAP?



When I returned to Minnesota in 2019 for fellowship, I had a strong desire to be more involved in advocacy work, especially for early childhood initiatives. &nbsp;



I had the opportunity to attend a few of the in-person Prenatal-to-3 policy forums before the pandemic started in 2020.&nbsp; The connections I made with Dr. Krish Subrahmanian and Dr. Nate Chomilo during those sessions, as well as Dr. Tom Scott (who was on my Scholarship Oversight Committee during my fellowship), further increased my interest in advocacy involvement and strengthened my interest in joining MNAAP.&nbsp; I knew that being involved in MNAAP would give me the chance to engage in this work.&nbsp; I have been able to participate in Advocacy Day activities and also joined the Early Childhood Work Group as part of MNAAP.&nbsp; I am glad to be part of this community!



Outside of medicine, what are some of your interests? How do you like to spend your free time?



Like many MNAAP members, I am a parent, and this occupies a lot of my time!&nbsp; Luckily, being a pediatrician helps me to feel very comfortable going places like the Minnesota Children’s Museum, Como Zoo (where I used to go as a child myself), and other child-friendly venues with my children.&nbsp; We love visiting farmers&#8217; markets in the summer and being outdoors all year round. &nbsp;



My biggest personal interest and activity for the past few decades (since age 12&#8230; I am turning 40 this year!) has been running, and I have completed 10 marathons since graduating college. I currently live near Elm Creek Reserve and you can find me on the trails most weekends.&nbsp;



Is there an advocacy issue you feel particularly drawn to support?&nbsp;



As stated earlier, I have a strong interest in early childhood initiatives and am a member of the Early Childhood Work Group.&nbsp; I am interested in investing time and financial support into initiatives that support children in the early stages, including access to high-quality childcare and educational support.&nbsp; Many of the patients I see rely upon these services and would definitely benefit from additional support.&nbsp; Early interventions can be extremely helpful in child development and I am excited to continue advocating for these services. &nbsp;



What’s something people might be surprised to learn about you?



I was a consultant for a television show.&nbsp; My brother (Alex M. Langenfeld, if you want to see his IMDB page) has been working in television production for some time and most recently was a production assistant and producer on the Netflix show Dead to Me; he reached out to ask me questions about how to display the EMR (electronic medical record) on a screen in the show!&nbsp; Let’s just say that my experience with charting served me well in this situation. 🙂

Member Spotlight: Adam Langenfeld, MD, PhD, FAAP

Partners at the American Cancer Society and the National HPV Vaccination Roundtable are sharing with physicians new evidence, recently published, on the impact of initiating HPV vaccination at ages 9-10. The collection of evidence includes population studies, quality improvement projects, brief reports, and commentaries from experts in the field.
According to 2021 data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), only 66 percent of Minnesota teens ages 13-17 were up-to-date on HPV vaccination. The HPV vaccine has been proven effective in preventing cancers caused by the HPV virus.
The collection of 10+ published articles shows the benefits, effectiveness, and acceptability of routinely recommending HPV vaccination for all preteens starting at age nine.
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.tandfonline.com/journals/khvi20/collections/HPV-vaccination-starting-age-9" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f%3D0019sQ1RrghCmLHfthVeyGJVZrXUAgOTx31oBXOziP9VG-okrB_atMEK9LMzfKK1-jjWx3njYbp1TTubyVR5wZpec9CFhi7wrf7Qqn2f8fezs7bJx_xvdGvvc2bhmZlDZlzstNe92mwBGcZaD0gNcjf8WreSgYw0BtwjFFCY2XZ5X_tVRTjdaDfDW6npPgp8zPhwYI4dK_KCuA8-j7retve-g7BO3kU5SPTIGlXdctplcM%3D%26c%3DUL0GLD9fuNWPxt-TMHslgxnPdp-glVabBcHXSSxY1nwrgflkZAeT-g%3D%3D%26ch%3Dlb9eT6_OdIAVZ7hy1DylBNrVEUCyZ_8l0D9JzNQBUa8iRYbYQCbbMg%3D%3D&amp;source=gmail&amp;ust=1686753697235000&amp;usg=AOvVaw0KWzzgMj23AKZPGfax-4ud">Read the Collection </a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLpB8X9MugZYZvEtLSPT8UTXFC3c1S-Ilg" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f%3D0019sQ1RrghCmLHfthVeyGJVZrXUAgOTx31oBXOziP9VG-okrB_atMEK9LMzfKK1-jjCCmZfMbdQzVlrUU8tVRzp8J3I6GsCdV66BOsCMfCOAZ1q88MbgLLt3czY8yyvLzIIhm795pnbp3knSHssHrU9rrSBrTtbcxe6gPAyk5fniYkp7Fhbl114dikQqFeldLGBPWhqS4ABzkfeTQPnPEkaQ%3D%3D%26c%3DUL0GLD9fuNWPxt-TMHslgxnPdp-glVabBcHXSSxY1nwrgflkZAeT-g%3D%3D%26ch%3Dlb9eT6_OdIAVZ7hy1DylBNrVEUCyZ_8l0D9JzNQBUa8iRYbYQCbbMg%3D%3D&amp;source=gmail&amp;ust=1686753697235000&amp;usg=AOvVaw3aW3lhSSLWp55dZ0wX6Pcm">Watch Video Abstracts Highlighting Key Articles </a></li>
<li><a href="http://hpvroundtable.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/HPV-RT-HVI-Supplement-Toolkit_-Final-v2.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f%3D0019sQ1RrghCmLHfthVeyGJVZrXUAgOTx31oBXOziP9VG-okrB_atMEK9LMzfKK1-jja8ul3pXNDNYJ_0sz8Py1CkLsOa3CERPXqQNNezNl4U287S6v-fAJHZB-Plhh8szjCHCQgjIZR1eYERP_ZGyIAXlvs8fSxLjSRfl2Dw8S9RRROyqNGxFP8NqFmWBEZJtRVJGrns4eSASQLYaxkqQ7Vsb8mbmBF3dRrRI11NmBiC1RyHjiyzhlHjI2iHaPzcAT%26c%3DUL0GLD9fuNWPxt-TMHslgxnPdp-glVabBcHXSSxY1nwrgflkZAeT-g%3D%3D%26ch%3Dlb9eT6_OdIAVZ7hy1DylBNrVEUCyZ_8l0D9JzNQBUa8iRYbYQCbbMg%3D%3D&amp;source=gmail&amp;ust=1686753697235000&amp;usg=AOvVaw3gQ-1OVXBI8XwtHKnBm-cI">Download the Collection Communications Toolkit</a></li>
</ul>

New Research Reinforces the Recommendation to Start Offering HPV Vaccines at Age Nine

As the school calendar winds down, many Minnesota children and teens will soon find themselves with more time to enjoy outside play and recreation. Physical activity is beneficial to the health and development of Minnesota&#8217;s youth, but some activities can carry greater risks than others. Consider sharing these helpful resources (or others from <a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=0018oS8eNq6jzFHPL44zh6QOxyr-SiEL19JU4dY166aLGaUPJlFZGmN_rZ4pm-FcSIn8MFZxHJbECO4ktWA3rO5Ub34jiUSemyXVN63XvZIsKq4ZIZWjtJOkWYDGbD0iq47NNyxsRkkTUfBIdrn8sVX2eSATTOjqsxD90NDaFDRiv6f4pHLBsDYC9ppc84z2PDPmHEB9mgy8dKjfa8ovV_klsHhB9gTjCmhSaCjMV2a2ao=&amp;c=disqCSNDBws7knCwxK6MkzguVWPN-UNWDWKfANem2L293A61JwrVJQ==&amp;ch=PabJKQELEcKRUo_-gjkn4wrhiaxPGUraOLTa6LaM4UScGMkywBh61A==" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f%3D0018oS8eNq6jzFHPL44zh6QOxyr-SiEL19JU4dY166aLGaUPJlFZGmN_rZ4pm-FcSIn8MFZxHJbECO4ktWA3rO5Ub34jiUSemyXVN63XvZIsKq4ZIZWjtJOkWYDGbD0iq47NNyxsRkkTUfBIdrn8sVX2eSATTOjqsxD90NDaFDRiv6f4pHLBsDYC9ppc84z2PDPmHEB9mgy8dKjfa8ovV_klsHhB9gTjCmhSaCjMV2a2ao%3D%26c%3DdisqCSNDBws7knCwxK6MkzguVWPN-UNWDWKfANem2L293A61JwrVJQ%3D%3D%26ch%3DPabJKQELEcKRUo_-gjkn4wrhiaxPGUraOLTa6LaM4UScGMkywBh61A%3D%3D&amp;source=gmail&amp;ust=1686148520191000&amp;usg=AOvVaw3FeSqiR-Xbv5NTESAsSG1j">HealthyChildren.org</a>) with patients and families when discussing summer plans.
<ul>
<li><a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=0018oS8eNq6jzFHPL44zh6QOxyr-SiEL19JU4dY166aLGaUPJlFZGmN_rZ4pm-FcSInSJd5IOqdL1LgnM9Tq92csBbSRqtSOsbZLrsxcibWu3ItWcFo20Zucc_U5kIx6Cb8J8W9SGyuum7ZFswq1-oLX7jSPz5RH7zlpkV0E609mwULoq8XESSHUm8gVsOTzOVuEnp3UqiopnSs8YumPyuY_G7k2DkLUMP9dtST7ymTuYrhHpRjs0vD46e2q0fGHl3wWz4aZRhOD1c=&amp;c=disqCSNDBws7knCwxK6MkzguVWPN-UNWDWKfANem2L293A61JwrVJQ==&amp;ch=PabJKQELEcKRUo_-gjkn4wrhiaxPGUraOLTa6LaM4UScGMkywBh61A==" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f%3D0018oS8eNq6jzFHPL44zh6QOxyr-SiEL19JU4dY166aLGaUPJlFZGmN_rZ4pm-FcSInSJd5IOqdL1LgnM9Tq92csBbSRqtSOsbZLrsxcibWu3ItWcFo20Zucc_U5kIx6Cb8J8W9SGyuum7ZFswq1-oLX7jSPz5RH7zlpkV0E609mwULoq8XESSHUm8gVsOTzOVuEnp3UqiopnSs8YumPyuY_G7k2DkLUMP9dtST7ymTuYrhHpRjs0vD46e2q0fGHl3wWz4aZRhOD1c%3D%26c%3DdisqCSNDBws7knCwxK6MkzguVWPN-UNWDWKfANem2L293A61JwrVJQ%3D%3D%26ch%3DPabJKQELEcKRUo_-gjkn4wrhiaxPGUraOLTa6LaM4UScGMkywBh61A%3D%3D&amp;source=gmail&amp;ust=1686148520191000&amp;usg=AOvVaw2Weuake1B4k3SEoLr6wUBD">Life Jackets &amp; Life Preservers for Children</a></li>
<li><a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=0018oS8eNq6jzFHPL44zh6QOxyr-SiEL19JU4dY166aLGaUPJlFZGmN_rZ4pm-FcSIn2uj0GMxY51ykNgM2It1lIDc4jYfsajqV0ME-gFEne5XsIApeq1ppFxU24s3io1K4LSO_V0EksG7TZvVOXkcVvRnlsjtK-rKCljh1eSUqgDguAJFAGDaUMx_B7w2bMpa-XktJQS4OSkKaS1f8jIeulukoFt6KkxMeRfmwJP-MRHao16hRMlzRUA==&amp;c=disqCSNDBws7knCwxK6MkzguVWPN-UNWDWKfANem2L293A61JwrVJQ==&amp;ch=PabJKQELEcKRUo_-gjkn4wrhiaxPGUraOLTa6LaM4UScGMkywBh61A==" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f%3D0018oS8eNq6jzFHPL44zh6QOxyr-SiEL19JU4dY166aLGaUPJlFZGmN_rZ4pm-FcSIn2uj0GMxY51ykNgM2It1lIDc4jYfsajqV0ME-gFEne5XsIApeq1ppFxU24s3io1K4LSO_V0EksG7TZvVOXkcVvRnlsjtK-rKCljh1eSUqgDguAJFAGDaUMx_B7w2bMpa-XktJQS4OSkKaS1f8jIeulukoFt6KkxMeRfmwJP-MRHao16hRMlzRUA%3D%3D%26c%3DdisqCSNDBws7knCwxK6MkzguVWPN-UNWDWKfANem2L293A61JwrVJQ%3D%3D%26ch%3DPabJKQELEcKRUo_-gjkn4wrhiaxPGUraOLTa6LaM4UScGMkywBh61A%3D%3D&amp;source=gmail&amp;ust=1686148520191000&amp;usg=AOvVaw2SilB4VG4p6OXD6nPs2E0o">5 Things You Need to Know About Water Parks, But Probably Don’t</a></li>
<li><a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=0018oS8eNq6jzFHPL44zh6QOxyr-SiEL19JU4dY166aLGaUPJlFZGmN_rZ4pm-FcSInnz97ktEDfQO4t2GWSCoTBLbd7Ek1WMPryFJoleHfTwQzJiEHBIskR2XYxO3Y2rfN43znHzduz7DV5ZqDoRUFs3x8t3P2M5WVxm6Lj6CAILDIZk3g_igN4eEfG9_kTILSSvuvnSQ27u7_7BzYswEaQLPqJkKR8ro68bFbANFTawluDkfbMMFxFKb3CYTmY7M8ioPcOCevHZccjJtlfU9k5w==&amp;c=disqCSNDBws7knCwxK6MkzguVWPN-UNWDWKfANem2L293A61JwrVJQ==&amp;ch=PabJKQELEcKRUo_-gjkn4wrhiaxPGUraOLTa6LaM4UScGMkywBh61A==" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f%3D0018oS8eNq6jzFHPL44zh6QOxyr-SiEL19JU4dY166aLGaUPJlFZGmN_rZ4pm-FcSInnz97ktEDfQO4t2GWSCoTBLbd7Ek1WMPryFJoleHfTwQzJiEHBIskR2XYxO3Y2rfN43znHzduz7DV5ZqDoRUFs3x8t3P2M5WVxm6Lj6CAILDIZk3g_igN4eEfG9_kTILSSvuvnSQ27u7_7BzYswEaQLPqJkKR8ro68bFbANFTawluDkfbMMFxFKb3CYTmY7M8ioPcOCevHZccjJtlfU9k5w%3D%3D%26c%3DdisqCSNDBws7knCwxK6MkzguVWPN-UNWDWKfANem2L293A61JwrVJQ%3D%3D%26ch%3DPabJKQELEcKRUo_-gjkn4wrhiaxPGUraOLTa6LaM4UScGMkywBh61A%3D%3D&amp;source=gmail&amp;ust=1686148520191000&amp;usg=AOvVaw1Qm5zen0Vl7ChP2p-pyD7T">Bike Helmets for Kids: Parent FAQs</a></li>
<li><a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=0018oS8eNq6jzFHPL44zh6QOxyr-SiEL19JU4dY166aLGaUPJlFZGmN_rZ4pm-FcSInnTXNlcz9BaO4QA5HiVMJORdaH-T2ennj-vPsZDHzWF8WFg_owrGQeAMhLVRGGYcybsQoHgLZdJDGZY37ewbgiE86qbYmkCXCuSZoavgai0p8xti5aoDUVtaJ4XRLl9jLC2WHKv2LY76XCQ80vMkFbb6fJibfnhzNv71U8uz88CfSWzUxdT8zw24Dgcc3ixT3&amp;c=disqCSNDBws7knCwxK6MkzguVWPN-UNWDWKfANem2L293A61JwrVJQ==&amp;ch=PabJKQELEcKRUo_-gjkn4wrhiaxPGUraOLTa6LaM4UScGMkywBh61A==" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f%3D0018oS8eNq6jzFHPL44zh6QOxyr-SiEL19JU4dY166aLGaUPJlFZGmN_rZ4pm-FcSInnTXNlcz9BaO4QA5HiVMJORdaH-T2ennj-vPsZDHzWF8WFg_owrGQeAMhLVRGGYcybsQoHgLZdJDGZY37ewbgiE86qbYmkCXCuSZoavgai0p8xti5aoDUVtaJ4XRLl9jLC2WHKv2LY76XCQ80vMkFbb6fJibfnhzNv71U8uz88CfSWzUxdT8zw24Dgcc3ixT3%26c%3DdisqCSNDBws7knCwxK6MkzguVWPN-UNWDWKfANem2L293A61JwrVJQ%3D%3D%26ch%3DPabJKQELEcKRUo_-gjkn4wrhiaxPGUraOLTa6LaM4UScGMkywBh61A%3D%3D&amp;source=gmail&amp;ust=1686148520191000&amp;usg=AOvVaw3TsIfH-0vrlYqlqAuwJNd3">4th of July Fireworks Safety: Tips for Families</a></li>
</ul>
All children, regardless of physical abilities, deserve to enjoy summer play. MNAAP annual sponsor Gillette Children&#8217;s has created <a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=0018oS8eNq6jzFHPL44zh6QOxyr-SiEL19JU4dY166aLGaUPJlFZGmN_rZ4pm-FcSInJA-V1DQxTMMMRFXqIJRaIMoXOu8Ft-JdQoQLXIeMcHDQb5AwjmHrNzTDGlPoEijLcjwjvSC0SBf7kzBHqgluIjcVuiSkDWsoUcbj0X3L3nUd3UvS_PRciw6eRlNLQxhFnPafU38XXiCckmNi11jlP6Iq2sRSe4qyb1EuckOhFini4lqTEmmYyuLa4rZWniAH4QP7DAutKpUNIcEMOOzmjru8Qo9o5gSqRzUj1y8MgYo=&amp;c=disqCSNDBws7knCwxK6MkzguVWPN-UNWDWKfANem2L293A61JwrVJQ==&amp;ch=PabJKQELEcKRUo_-gjkn4wrhiaxPGUraOLTa6LaM4UScGMkywBh61A==" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f%3D0018oS8eNq6jzFHPL44zh6QOxyr-SiEL19JU4dY166aLGaUPJlFZGmN_rZ4pm-FcSInJA-V1DQxTMMMRFXqIJRaIMoXOu8Ft-JdQoQLXIeMcHDQb5AwjmHrNzTDGlPoEijLcjwjvSC0SBf7kzBHqgluIjcVuiSkDWsoUcbj0X3L3nUd3UvS_PRciw6eRlNLQxhFnPafU38XXiCckmNi11jlP6Iq2sRSe4qyb1EuckOhFini4lqTEmmYyuLa4rZWniAH4QP7DAutKpUNIcEMOOzmjru8Qo9o5gSqRzUj1y8MgYo%3D%26c%3DdisqCSNDBws7knCwxK6MkzguVWPN-UNWDWKfANem2L293A61JwrVJQ%3D%3D%26ch%3DPabJKQELEcKRUo_-gjkn4wrhiaxPGUraOLTa6LaM4UScGMkywBh61A%3D%3D&amp;source=gmail&amp;ust=1686148520191000&amp;usg=AOvVaw2VyZ6kZPz3BQfwUWtna4E-">this map of inclusive playgrounds</a> around the Twin Cities and greater Minnesota. Accessible playgrounds are created to be inclusive to children of different abilities. Including features for children with physical and developmental disabilities, such as wheelchair-accessible swings, sensory stimulating equipment, and safety features.

Pass on to Families: Summer Activity Resources and Reminders

Join MNAAP and the American Cancer Society (ACS) on Thursday, June 22, from 12 &#8211; 1 p.m. for a webinar focused on ways to increase HPV vaccination rates. According to vaccination coverage information from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), only 65.7 percent of Minnesota teens were up-to-date on their HPV vaccinations in 2021. The HPV vaccine can prevent more than 90 percent of 6 HPV cancers when given at the recommended ages. CME credit is available for this webinar.
This webinar will be presented by Dr. Garrett Jones, chair of the MNAAP Immunization Work Group, and Matt Flory, associate director of state partnerships at ACS.
This activity has been planned and implemented in accordance with the accreditation requirements and policies of the Accreditation Council for Continuing Medical Education (ACCME) through the joint providership of the Minnesota Medical Association and MN Chapter, American Academy of Pediatrics. The Minnesota Medical Association (MMA) is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Continuing Medical Education to provide continuing medical education for physicians.
The Minnesota Medical Association designates this “other” (internet live then enduring) activity for a maximum of 1 AMA PRA Category 1 Credit(s)™. Physicians should claim only the credit commensurate with the extent of their participation in the activity.
Click <a href="https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/HX99CRL" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f%3D0018oS8eNq6jzFHPL44zh6QOxyr-SiEL19JU4dY166aLGaUPJlFZGmN_rZ4pm-FcSInTbsFdFqtzTOWd5ergRtFVqMw55cG6fp_wpXWxqBxBUujvASEQsbwlgXWxm6Cgn7Q_vQuw_F7A8SRpRVkTN0cI3aqaLAvI9LLnh59k86pAIY%3D%26c%3DdisqCSNDBws7knCwxK6MkzguVWPN-UNWDWKfANem2L293A61JwrVJQ%3D%3D%26ch%3DPabJKQELEcKRUo_-gjkn4wrhiaxPGUraOLTa6LaM4UScGMkywBh61A%3D%3D&amp;source=gmail&amp;ust=1686148520190000&amp;usg=AOvVaw13B8AeQlX7AeZWatlkib-u">here</a> to register.

June 22 Webinar: Increasing HPV Vaccination Rates

The Minnesota Legislature wrapped up its business on May 22, closing out a very successful session for MNAAP.



“This was one of the most productive legislative sessions our chapter has ever seen,” said MNAAP President, Eileen Crespo, MD, FAAP. “We saw major legislative accomplishments on nearly every priority we had. I want to thank all members who engaged in some level of advocacy this year. We were at the forefront of these issues and contributed greatly to making this session truly historic.”&nbsp;



MNAAP’s&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001793s03OFgUIZMeRICRVk4tNMEzjjq92wfPRjlfR-3eVe953fQe6nju16iI7LPOeZmu8cWf0v5KfoVcQwg6Wf8BrK1C0bBtc2GcndflZTQJMhlR_BLCoIXvNZjxJkYmrznjLdtgkwKAkR9A1b1FVOA4osIwbbPmMPKJqaom7ThJtMIUv-Ec-gnONMJ2EzJAWKw6t_KE-yqr1pEEg86q9G-tQOOYkqQtOp_j6vW2u2oR5SizCN9WzwTg==&amp;c=zMQny1YBhzvTAFWMWxXCNMG0dcfjx7d1jVgbFYgeHyRFLYGJw3GhRQ==&amp;ch=McTy72n2jXd23NRo9JNSc1JSwz8CgmrjSISGq_qFMMGcYeWmwGdPuA==" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">2023 legislative priorities</a>&nbsp;included protecting children and youth from firearm violence, increasing vaccination rates against infectious diseases, promoting child, youth, and family mental health, supporting funding for early childhood initiatives, and addressing social drivers of health.



Despite holding narrow majorities in both the House and Senate, DFL lawmakers set out with an aggressive legislative agenda. This included introducing multiple firearm safety proposals – something MNAAP had promoted for years. In the end, Minnesota passed expanded background check requirements for private firearm sales and transfers and a new extreme risk protection order (also known as a “red flag law”), allowing family members and law enforcement to petition a court to temporarily restrict firearm access for those at risk of harming themselves or others.&nbsp;



Lawmakers also introduced legislation to require firearms to be safely secured in a safe or lockbox, and that ammunition be stored separately. This bill received a committee hearing in the House, but saw opposition in the Senate and was not included in the final bill.



Similarly, lawmakers introduced legislation to remove current statutes exempting children from public school immunization requirements based on “conscientiously held beliefs.” Though this legislation was introduced, it did not receive a committee hearing and did not pass. MNAAP will be coordinating with other stakeholders to pursue this in the future. Otherwise, MNAAP did push through funding for a vaccination program aimed at underinsured and uninsured Minnesotans.



In total, the biennial state budget will increase from approximately $52 billion to approximately $72 billion. About $12 billion of this is one-time spending. The new budget is funded through tax and fee alterations and use of the state’s $17.6 billion budget surplus. A large percentage of the spending increase is dedicated to children, families, and K-12 education.



Minnesota will allocate $23.2 billion of its 2024-25 state budget towards K-12 schools – $2.2 billion of that is new spending. Much of that is for a basic formula increase for schools, but one of the largest single spending items is a separate $85 million for mental health personnel in schools. Additionally, over $200 million was allocated for free school breakfast and lunches for all Minnesota students. That legislation moved separately from the K-12 education budget bill and was signed into law in March.



The health and human services (HHS) budget bill also included numerous grants for child mental health, as well as school-linked behavioral health grants. Additional items in the HHS bill include early child investments such as funding for childcare stabilization grants, Healthy Beginnings, Healthy Families Program, Homeless Youth Act, early learning scholarships, and the Great Start Act, to name a few. The bill also creates a new Department of Children, Youth and Families. In total, about $1.2 billion of investment into children and families. In comparison, the entire health budget target does not exceed $800 million.



The HHS bill also funds an actuarial and economic analysis for a MinnesotaCare Buy-in Program, or “public option,” expands MA coverage for undocumented Minnesotans and children, and offers continuous Medicaid enrollment for children.



Many of these new state budget investments are aimed to reducing the effects of social drivers of health. For example, MNAAP supported the $1 billion Housing bill – the largest single investment in housing the state has ever seen, which will go towards reducing housing insecurity and homelessness.



MNAAP also supported a comprehensive paid family and medical leave program, which was signed into law on May 25. The bill will require employers to offer 12 weeks of paid family leave and 12 weeks of paid medical leave starting on Jan. 1, 2026. The $800 million bill is funded through a payroll tax hike.



Other top items for MNAAP this session include a new child tax credit, the Protect Reproductive Options (PRO) Act, the Reproductive Freedom Defense Act, repeal of statutes intended to obstruct access to abortion services, legal protection for those coming to Minnesota seeking gender-affirming care, and a conversion therapy ban; all of which passed this session.



The legislature remains adjourned and will reconvene on Feb. 12, 2024.&nbsp;

Legislature Adjourns, Historic Session for Children and Families

Join the MNAAP Early Childhood Work Group for its next lunch and learn presentation on&nbsp;Wednesday, May 24 from 12:15 &#8211; 1 p.m.&nbsp;You&nbsp;do not&nbsp;need to be a member of the Early Childhood Work Group to attend. All MNAAP members are welcome!



Dianne Haulcy, president and CEO of The Family Partnership, will present information and data about how children develop racial bias from birth. Participants will learn strategies and language to analyze their own implict bias and work through how to respond to real world scenarios of young child and the issues of racial bias.



Haulcy has 30 years of experience in the non-profit sector with experience directing&nbsp;five early childhood programs and many other housing and human services programs all&nbsp;serving inner-city, low-income, ethnically diverse populations. She has worked on early&nbsp;childhood policy for the City of Minneapolis, and overseen financial&nbsp;support&nbsp;to parents at Think Small and The Family Partnership. She is also currently the host of a podcast focused&nbsp;on how to talk to very young children about race and racism called Early Risers sponsored by&nbsp;Little Moments Count and Minnesota Public Radio.



Use this link to join the lunch and learn on May 24: <a href="https://us06web.zoom.us/j/7703657035﻿" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener" aria-label="https://us06web.zoom.us/j/7703657035 (opens in a new tab)">https://us06web.zoom.us/j/7703657035</a>

May 24 | Lunch and Learn Focuses on Early Childhood and Racial Bias

The following is a legislative update sent to MNAAP members on Monday, May 1, 2023. This is an abbreviated version of the message members receive from the chapter&#8217;s lobbyist. If you are a MNAAP member and you are not receiving a legislative update, contact Communications Manager <a href="mailto:venable@mnaap.org">Bethany Venable</a> via email. 



<h4 class="wp-block-heading">Conversion Therapy Ban, Gender Affirming Care, and RFDA Signed into Law</h4>



Three bills were signed into law by Gov. Tim Walz on April 27.&nbsp;The first,&nbsp;<a rel="noreferrer noopener" href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001kRy2U6RodK1KLbtxmFJFqHQVBEXifnh5JUuhThiifMf259XM-pquRqKFr6ZyWUd6A5cMqnYwEn3idqCIb0kzdAQLDguTjBqAwQnglBGs0ESjim6jDoW-dfZqUxpiw85I-W7E8kHVlTIbd6Hqtf2zUwt6tJkzeFQJsvq9jFtekW_bRTFgbn5ak140VkeNBC3abgnF-W13_ruvOmUDkQhwngynbepfFFGCKmzQiPgsBsE=&amp;c=0-YP7kOUXAHsxs3HHUoYLQnTu89wWwSmloiD3svSe4f1Plro6hcmLQ==&amp;ch=vsbYvvb4_3IBigpxPEUAJ9wxAk1-afYFrNg7qPVDLPL_dvo0-XhlUA==" target="_blank">HF 16</a> (Hollins, DFL – St. Paul; Dibble, DFL – Minneapolis), would prohibit the use of conversion therapy for individuals under the age of 18. The second bill, <a rel="noreferrer noopener" href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001kRy2U6RodK1KLbtxmFJFqHQVBEXifnh5JUuhThiifMf259XM-pquRqKFr6ZyWUd64DovzAIRChmK0K_aFvM7JTKRzbHwYFDFk7q15SVH9b2WGX4Y6-LuJOP0MZ34TEhXfzeYIfZbNaMxRaSYT1HRHyX-8fOnse4ZTvhcVYICrMjhRnZsvObjLr7tdtyQyU2JeOcYzTfYl5OOSiOdADmAk1twIIeJa4lGoPL-jtzwwXo=&amp;c=0-YP7kOUXAHsxs3HHUoYLQnTu89wWwSmloiD3svSe4f1Plro6hcmLQ==&amp;ch=vsbYvvb4_3IBigpxPEUAJ9wxAk1-afYFrNg7qPVDLPL_dvo0-XhlUA==" target="_blank">HF 146</a> (Finke, DFL – St. Paul; Maye Quade, DFL – Apple Valley), seeks to protect transgender people, their families, and providers from legal repercussions if they travel to Minnesota to get gender-affirming care. Lastly, <a rel="noreferrer noopener" href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001kRy2U6RodK1KLbtxmFJFqHQVBEXifnh5JUuhThiifMf259XM-pquRqKFr6ZyWUd6AToWpWo6zWOoOmSiFUe-BwmEeaoZBIppfnoCkscEyS99MlJzkVYB1lFp_nSEslbOiyGFP100Kt-gCiHsQ1H7khB0Xqw6B10SuEAyzwQ4kRTFgIZikITq-vzpGlMd2g8hxUZh4NgEdSXQl5SDbKosIiTjI_SX93-f4I8uFu5wMFk=&amp;c=0-YP7kOUXAHsxs3HHUoYLQnTu89wWwSmloiD3svSe4f1Plro6hcmLQ==&amp;ch=vsbYvvb4_3IBigpxPEUAJ9wxAk1-afYFrNg7qPVDLPL_dvo0-XhlUA==" target="_blank">HF 366</a> (Agbaje, DFL – Minneapolis; Morrison, DFL – Deephaven), also known as the Reproductive Freedom Defense Act (RFDA), would also prevent state courts or officials from complying with extraditions, arrests, or subpoenas related to care received in Minnesota. All three laws are effective immediately.



<h4 class="wp-block-heading">House and Senate Pass Health Omnibus Bill, Conference Committee Soon&nbsp;</h4>



On April 26, the Minnesota House passed the omnibus health and human services budget bill on a 69-58 vote. A week prior, the Senate passed its version on a 35-32 vote margin. Though some details are different, both bills include the creation of a Health Care Affordability Commission to establish and enforce healthcare spending limits. In addition, both bills include efforts to expand access to affordable health coverage. The language would expand coverage for MinnesotaCare, provide coverage for non-documented children, and offer subsidies to encourage Minnesotans to purchase coverage with lower deductibles. It also includes efforts to further expand MinnesotaCare to more Minnesotans through what is referred to as the “public option,” beginning in 2027.&nbsp;&nbsp;Both bills include language to repeal current statutes intended to obstruct access to reproductive healthcare services, grant funding to address healthcare worker safety, and updates to the all-payer claims database (APCD). Both bills also include a two-year extension for coverage of audio-only telehealth, medical assistance (MA) coverage for recuperative care services, and an initiative to direct the Commissioner of Health to develop a statewide database for POLST (Provider Orders for Life Sustaining Treatment) forms.&nbsp;&nbsp;



Since the language in the House and Senate bills are different, a conference committee has been formed to hash out the differences and develop identical language in a conference report that will then be acted on by both bodies. The conference committee members include Reps. Liebling (DFL – Rochester), Bierman (DFL – Apple Valley), Pinto (DFL – St. Paul), Keeler (DFL – Moorhead), Schomacker (R – Luverne) and Sens. Wiklund (DFL – Bloomington), Morrison (DFL – Deephaven), Bolden (DFL – Rochester), Kupec DFL – Moorhead), and Abeler (R – Anoka).



<h4 class="wp-block-heading">Adult-Use Cannabis Passes Clears Minnesota House and Senate, Moves to Conference Committee</h4>



A bill legalizing adult-use cannabis passed the House floor on April 25 on a 71-59 vote, and the Senate version (<a rel="noreferrer noopener" href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001kRy2U6RodK1KLbtxmFJFqHQVBEXifnh5JUuhThiifMf259XM-pquRqKFr6ZyWUd6HTYJFGx2B4OnnFg1euH7cM8PKShULf0egTt-Ww3OeTD6VjlVedixntIGohYrHPZfcdgh5Y5NE4mCGVc6oANqvMRKHzHXbsTWGwicl_R7rVoGGOe0DAYv3Fen_qFV3opBxRQ3-8pM7t29EB4wnmpSwcUDfZ0_KGzhrivW92xlP3E=&amp;c=0-YP7kOUXAHsxs3HHUoYLQnTu89wWwSmloiD3svSe4f1Plro6hcmLQ==&amp;ch=vsbYvvb4_3IBigpxPEUAJ9wxAk1-afYFrNg7qPVDLPL_dvo0-XhlUA==" target="_blank">SF 73</a>&nbsp;(Port, DFL – Burnsville)&nbsp;passed on Friday, April 28,&nbsp;with a vote of 34-33.



<a rel="noreferrer noopener" href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001kRy2U6RodK1KLbtxmFJFqHQVBEXifnh5JUuhThiifMf259XM-pquRqKFr6ZyWUd6ylL-6mZK8znyNVfx2Z_bPpMo3qgDg5O6zsbOeG-44Ewxh-1sKxoKP3HBNhXGhBCYq_z2ddCV1dhauIo13lnGuhEpmLEla9dxmdttLKcqA0y1KbxDGHyYeLooum3LUMXM_IiKAJY-JpIUozkX4UgNPyzwFbxhUVVPfCXTQeuW0HA=&amp;c=0-YP7kOUXAHsxs3HHUoYLQnTu89wWwSmloiD3svSe4f1Plro6hcmLQ==&amp;ch=vsbYvvb4_3IBigpxPEUAJ9wxAk1-afYFrNg7qPVDLPL_dvo0-XhlUA==" target="_blank">HF 100</a>&nbsp;(Stephenson, DFL – Coon Rapids) would legalize and regulate the recreational use of cannabis for those 21 and older in Minnesota. The bill would also create an expungement process to automatically lift previous cannabis-related, low-level convictions off individuals’ criminal records.&nbsp;&nbsp;



The two bills will go to a conference committee to reconcile differences and then go to Gov. Tim Walz, who has previously indicated he will sign the bill. 



<h4 class="wp-block-heading">Opioid Measure Included in Human Services Omnibus Bill&nbsp;</h4>



The House and Senate passed different versions of the omnibus human services budget bill that funds nursing homes, programs for disabled Minnesotans, and other social service programs. The different versions of the human services omnibus bills will be reconciled in a conference committee in the upcoming weeks.

Legislative Update | May 1, 2023

&#8220;Recognition is not a scarce resource. You can&#8217;t use it up or run out of it.&#8221; &#8211; Susan M. Heathfield



Every day, pediatricians and child health advocates are going above and beyond to ensure that Minnesota&#8217;s children and teens have a chance to live the healthiest, most promising lives they can. MNAAP wants to honor and celebrate these individuals through the chapter&#8217;s annual awards and needs your help to find the recipients who deserve to have their contributions celebrated.



The nomination process for the MNAAP annual awards is now open. Submissions will be accepted through Friday, July 7. The chapter has two awards: the Distinguished Service Award and the Eric Dick Child Advocacy Award. 



To see a list of previous honorees, visit the&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001sAsLAxy6spwAqbX5omOwbG5JgucPv2oS3iWJr5isE_exyaHAuxEb3NWNEFwWuPjsRpfEtS6-aSv77unkMnJ_-Qv4_IFEfaVTGaXdxxCeSZ_Y6XO40w6to_nQWkTOfJRW4KF0jL9Day6ifyrZojGBr54mOtNdBFglXT7SnoC_6j4=&amp;c=tRF8H2A379cJwim9Mf4Bb-dzqsa7uqOeli8N6s3fbbOQgNKV6x_r8g==&amp;ch=SRCGAZq9JAlF3uPMt1DlC8neFRWWkknq_3I6thKASwUW47cT40JEfQ==" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Annual Awards page</a>.



Distinguished Service Award



Each year MNAAP recognizes a pediatrician for their outstanding efforts that contribute to the improvement of child health care. This is really the “Lifetime Achievement Award” for the pediatrician who has dedicated their life to improving care for children throughout the state of Minnesota.



<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001sAsLAxy6spwAqbX5omOwbG5JgucPv2oS3iWJr5isE_exyaHAuxEb3NWNEFwWuPjswLr14DGL60eikCB8IpgCMecpLGRRApvVpTXlFYJiqkFjXGGyd6gFmf21R3CGLCfeAmgZNkhna-O4i-LO5Av_W8iKrlGzmmdh5mtt_Nn8PTz39Qon2-T1kuDPD2JQE3-jPM_K_q-xA9SORArLuYYyx-zsUZU_JBtlEYlTJOkh3IHSJXBVLlFpYzuRNm-gNb9Z&amp;c=tRF8H2A379cJwim9Mf4Bb-dzqsa7uqOeli8N6s3fbbOQgNKV6x_r8g==&amp;ch=SRCGAZq9JAlF3uPMt1DlC8neFRWWkknq_3I6thKASwUW47cT40JEfQ==" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Click here</a>&nbsp;to see more criteria&nbsp;for the Distinguished Service Award and to make a nomination.



Eric Dick Child Advocacy Award



MNAAP chooses an individual from the community who goes above and beyond their everyday routine to advocate for the health and welfare of children in Minnesota. This annual award was renamed in 2021 to honor the chapter’s late lobbyist, Eric Dick, who passed away in January of that year. Eric was a tireless advocate for Minnesota’s infants, children, and teens.



<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001sAsLAxy6spwAqbX5omOwbG5JgucPv2oS3iWJr5isE_exyaHAuxEb3NWNEFwWuPjsRpfEtS6-aSv77unkMnJ_-Qv4_IFEfaVTGaXdxxCeSZ_Y6XO40w6to_nQWkTOfJRW4KF0jL9Day6ifyrZojGBr54mOtNdBFglXT7SnoC_6j4=&amp;c=tRF8H2A379cJwim9Mf4Bb-dzqsa7uqOeli8N6s3fbbOQgNKV6x_r8g==&amp;ch=SRCGAZq9JAlF3uPMt1DlC8neFRWWkknq_3I6thKASwUW47cT40JEfQ==" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Click here</a>&nbsp;to see more criteria&nbsp;for the Eric Dick Child Advocacy Award and to make a nomination.

MNAAP Annual Awards Nomination Process Now Open

Suicide prevention and firearm violence prevention are among the top concerns and areas of interest for MNAAP pediatricians, according to the results of last year’s member survey. An upcoming project through a coalition that includes the Minnesota Medical Association (MMA) and Protect Minnesota offers pediatricians an opportunity to examine the role that firearms play in suicides.



The coalition has brought together physician groups and community stakeholders from across Minnesota, and together, they are working to raise their voices on firearm safety.



As part of these efforts, the coalition is planning to conduct physician interviews, to learn more about the experience of physicians in counseling patients about gun safety, and learn about the barriers they might be facing.



In addition,&nbsp;the coalition is planning to conduct pilot projects at 4-5 clinics in rural Minnesota. The coalition will provide trigger locks and messaging for the physicians – to assist in conversations about gun safety, and suicide prevention with patients.&nbsp;&nbsp;



If you are interested in participating in a physician interview, or you know of a rural clinic that might be interested in participating in the pilot project,&nbsp;please use the links below to provide your name and email, and staff from the MMA will be in contact with you.



<ul class="wp-block-list"><li><a rel="noreferrer noopener" aria-label=" (opens in a new tab)" href="https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSeInG6btSvRjTrQmxDLJVRCGSy4ztED8vYccqpWo7Oh4S3JFA/viewform" target="_blank">Minnesota Firearm Safety and Suicide Prevention Coalition &#8211; Physician Interviews: Interest Form</a></li><li><a href="https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScalIfmZ63woE6TwMHMAWoe0S21fG988qcJyW13g_nd9W99VA/viewform">Minnesota Firearm Safety and Suicide Prevention Coalition &#8211; Pilot Project: Rural Clinic Interest Form</a></li></ul>

Coalition to Examine Suicide Prevention Through Physician Interviews, Pilot Projects

MNAAP is seeking clinics to participate in a MOC4 quality improvement project aimed at improving documentation and administration of depression screening and referral of teens who identify as BIPOC and/or LGBQI+. Up to 25 MOC4 credits are available for participating physicians.



According to Minnesota Community Measurement, half of all lifetime cases of mental illness begin by age 14. Anxiety disorders are the most common mental health condition among young people, particularly BIPOC and LGBTQI+ youth. But many young people&nbsp;are never&nbsp;treated&nbsp;&#8211; or not until they&#8217;re in crisis.&nbsp;



This MOC4 module seeks to improve adolescent mental health screening rates at adolescent and young adult clinic visits using the HEDIS and Minnesota Community Measurement measures, as well as by integrating feedback from BIPOC and LGBTQI+ youth into the development of more culturally sensitive/relevant screening tools. Each participating clinic receives $4,000 to support QI-related activities.



The project runs from May through August. For more information, contact MNAAP Executive Director&nbsp;<a href="mailto:bauer@mnaap.org" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Jeff Bauer.</a>

Earn 25 MOC4 Credits Through Adolescent Mental Health Screening and Referral Project

As many as 5.3 million children may lose their Medicaid coverage during a period of eligibility redetermination following the COVID-19 public health emergency, according to the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP). This period, which started April 1, is often called &#8220;the unwinding.&#8221; Of that number, it is estimated that up to 70 percent of children will lose Medicaid coverage due to procedural reasons, such as enrollees not being reached or enrollees not returning forms.
The AAP has developed <a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001RoAewowj65eSVpJUyKagsaiiPfI6OcUgaMYd8jx7bgVmkRrU8mQcr-rEWRQ-f3hITGh1oNRi1IBc7yH2VOHFJNBsW_1CRtTKTuGuIoGI9MaaLA1Z6VFNseHYRykunv60aP2pfoiqAr6eMRRpnhfQoz1c9cHGgzhwmjWdD9gLqaJPOIXclGF7xf51wqh7n83qWYIjz0pnaHBGSrFDpzAelfcF-7kGwKEV1voBsfXvlMVd7MaYHVdYC9IC-9xCLvzDf4zdONCNHhkyMaZvN51h6zVWI5dKeW8hjp9izWQ93iNbPtaO_NtCMIkM3po0RmW5M6Ev5EvYu7E=&amp;c=uJNMWptAN-CGymqrZYI3WckiXcFiPpPXZo-DQaE1oJCp9PS7s9MC6Q==&amp;ch=4BhqxSGgqiFYvc3jt3UGhUa9rppryO60NYjGlZmsKvXiAS3oUt6WFA==">a two-page resource</a> for pediatricians to help children stay covered. Additional resources are available on the AAP&#8217;s <a href="https://www.aap.org/medicaidunwinding">Preserving Medicaid and CHIP Coverage page</a>. These resources may be helpful to you, your colleagues, or your patients and families. Ensuring that children do not inappropriately lose their health care coverage is incredibly important to their health and wellbeing.

Resources to Help Children Stay Covered During “Unwinding”

Two separate weeks coming up in April offer the opportunity to increase attention and focus on the importance of immunizations.



April 3 to 7 is Adolescent Immunization Action Week. The week encourages action to ensure adolescents are up to date on well visits and immunizations. For more information, tools, and resources to participate visit&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001ugyLHztrZf2Nc-kiWpoksJ2_4sC1cN793kOxeSnUpucYopdOUHy_blHkBL0-WpZ4-GFuemA5zE1niRzuAu9J5KI-nDIGxLPjfLxda-XCoKH_D_FtTgBWOoLMSH6QwXhh-p_RgHHJYMR47oEQDZ1DqaYw9fvRKzvPtTgTvePjsdI=&amp;c=nJqWcPlyfe1KPc_ugSTr0FTxuXEttbC2Z94BVBT4PJHy692vIOPRPg==&amp;ch=8FNwYMTZ8tpGaib_jVnMeN68KX8JepLdE-a9F6R10R3z3KJX5gZdLg==" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Adolescent Immunization Action Week 2023.</a>&nbsp;Visit&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001ugyLHztrZf2Nc-kiWpoksJ2_4sC1cN793kOxeSnUpucYopdOUHy_bm3LyrjjnmxQuF4ZvQjLPjRERJGHBUIHtsHHg8fQR9M1vtjmCTVDgmCEtoqcHSwI0oUxJmDAcOOIsmYxprjANcSQlgll5Q7GnWrOq1os3ToI8wzGfYMaQdlLGG7Q7crzIfIfu5dppeoTVBrMk3Py_fE=&amp;c=nJqWcPlyfe1KPc_ugSTr0FTxuXEttbC2Z94BVBT4PJHy692vIOPRPg==&amp;ch=8FNwYMTZ8tpGaib_jVnMeN68KX8JepLdE-a9F6R10R3z3KJX5gZdLg==" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">We Vax Teens: For Health Care Providers Serving Adolescents</a>&nbsp;for resources on improving on-time HPV vaccination along with other routinely recommended vaccines.



National Infant Immunization Week is April 24 to 30. The purpose of the week is to highlight the importance of protecting children two years and younger from vaccine preventable diseases (VPDs). To learn more, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001ugyLHztrZf2Nc-kiWpoksJ2_4sC1cN793kOxeSnUpucYopdOUHy_blHkBL0-WpZ423LPVB5apbXulaqXTbnLGNRozkpQw04BMWswgOOpgGJIX5Z0ApRpfgMnIuJDlxwyLNGZkeVj-EN1mVPc5jfU7JfJ9_djz6ODEsveZt7aQ0qpgAHzjZyYYUxVEn9S1rUDH2j4Bgd7P5E=&amp;c=nJqWcPlyfe1KPc_ugSTr0FTxuXEttbC2Z94BVBT4PJHy692vIOPRPg==&amp;ch=8FNwYMTZ8tpGaib_jVnMeN68KX8JepLdE-a9F6R10R3z3KJX5gZdLg==" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">National Infant Immunization Week (NIIW)</a>&nbsp;and for key messages, a digital media toolkit and more the&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001ugyLHztrZf2Nc-kiWpoksJ2_4sC1cN793kOxeSnUpucYopdOUHy_blHkBL0-WpZ4eFOIKzawUlFTMZxMHeWbY7DjOcD7G2b6URpXsbkWEj3qqh74VQAvbowCp0kyGhcLRQbJomLTrNT5Bjn22nD1gGyC9KB3bMp8guuF9-P3ffHaLe-HJQV0Q6FPDfm-63Nm&amp;c=nJqWcPlyfe1KPc_ugSTr0FTxuXEttbC2Z94BVBT4PJHy692vIOPRPg==&amp;ch=8FNwYMTZ8tpGaib_jVnMeN68KX8JepLdE-a9F6R10R3z3KJX5gZdLg==" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">CDC: National Infant Immunization Week (NIIW).</a>

Immunization Awareness Weeks Offer Opportunity to Encourage Vaccination

The news this week of the March 27th mass shooting in Nashville involving children serves as a somber reminder that the fight to protect children and youth from firearm violence continues to be a top priority for pediatricians.



Accidental firearm injury and homicide are major health concerns for Minnesota’s youth. Firearms are also the leading method of suicide for adolescents aged 15 to 19. MNAAP supports common sense firearm control measures including expanding criminal background checks for all firearm transfers and sales, enacting “red flag” laws to protect those who may be a danger to themselves or others, authorizing the use of firearm ownership data for public health research or epidemiologic investigation, strengthening existing safe storage laws, and awareness efforts of the role that firearms play in suicides, especially in youth and adolescents.



Past MNAAP President Sheldon Berkowitz, MD, FAAP, advocated for these measures in a&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001ugyLHztrZf2Nc-kiWpoksJ2_4sC1cN793kOxeSnUpucYopdOUHy_blHkBL0-WpZ42qdPp0S5bp_JhF4PSb1--BMy7kakdWaMONLzp8Ithx4tz4zwZajXG27Le1miuFOxzk3aTnBRYHX7reOfVH3k9PDlhR-zciwqgaqWRhWbbdIQvGzhxg_wZaMKij6DH980wOBw0MmGF-oyTMM9_oXifIBW3cxXz-jMs_sfXQjOf0j7nW-_BZO1sw==&amp;c=nJqWcPlyfe1KPc_ugSTr0FTxuXEttbC2Z94BVBT4PJHy692vIOPRPg==&amp;ch=8FNwYMTZ8tpGaib_jVnMeN68KX8JepLdE-a9F6R10R3z3KJX5gZdLg==" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Star Tribune Readers Write&nbsp;</a>submission he authored. Dr. Berkowitz wrote, &#8220;If we are serious about honoring their memories, our legislators must pass commonsense gun-violence-prevention laws and stop hiding behind the Second Amendment. In addition, we all must talk to our communities about gun violence and teach that there are alternatives to using guns to settle disagreements.&#8221;&nbsp;

MNAAP Supports Common Sense Firearm Control Measures

<a href="http://www.mnaap.org/word-from-the-president-8/">Word from the President</a>



<a href="http://www.mnaap.org/legislature-off-to-fast-start-with-plenty-of-road-ahead/">Legislature Off to Fast Start with Plenty of Road Ahead</a>



<a href="http://www.mnaap.org/mnaap-advocacy-in-action/">MNAAP Advocacy in Action</a>



<a href="http://www.mnaap.org/mnaap-work-group-update-early-childhood/">MNAAP Work Group Update:&nbsp;Early Childhood</a>



<a href="http://www.mnaap.org/mnaap-work-group-update-anti-racism-disparities/">MNAAP Work Group Update:&nbsp;Anti-Racism &amp; Disparities</a>



<a href="http://www.mnaap.org/member-spotlight-m-jennifer-abuzzahab-md-faap/">Member Spotlight: M. Jennifer Abuzzahab, MD, FAAP</a>



<a href="http://www.mnaap.org/catch-grant-program-encourages-connection-partnerships/?preview=true">CATCH Grant Program Encourages Connection, Partnerships</a>



<h4 class="wp-block-heading"><a href="http://www.mnaap.org/wp-lib/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Spring-2023-MN-Ped-for-web.pdf">View the issue here (PDF)</a></h4>

Spring 2023 Minnesota Pediatrician

Over the last several years, projects initiated through the AAP’s Community Access to Child Health (CATCH) program have advanced child health for vulnerable populations and connected nearly 2,000 pediatricians and pediatricians-in-training with their communities.



Here in Minnesota, one MNAAP member has had a front row seat to the CATCH project process for more than a decade. Brian Lynch, MD, FAAP, began serving as the chapter’s CATCH facilitator in 2010 after then-MNAAP President Anne Edwards, MD, FAAP, recruited him for the role. Dr. Lynch practices at Mayo Clinic, where he also serves on the faculty as an associate professor of pediatrics.



As a CATCH facilitator, Dr. Lynch helps chapter members prepare for the grant application, as well as review and grade CATCH applications from other chapters. According to the AAP, the CATCH program is a flagship initiative that has, for 30 years, supported pediatricians and residents to collaborate within their communities to advance the health of all children, especially the most vulnerable children.



Through an annual competitive process, CATCH awards seed funding for planning and implementation grants to pediatricians; fellows/fellowship trainees receive $10,000 for planning or implementation projects, while residents are awarded $2,000.



“What’s neat about CATCH grants is they focus on new projects that are pediatrician-led that are in their local community that involve community collaboration and generally serve populations that have demonstrated health disparities,” said Dr. Lynch.



Typically one CATCH project from Minnesota is funded each year, which is a pretty good track record, according to Dr. Lynch. He will often talk through project ideas with eight and 10 people, and of those interested parties three to four will continue on to the process of applying for grant funding. CATCH is a good opportunity for pediatricians or residents who are new to research.&nbsp;



“I really had no research background before coming to Mayo Clinic. Taking on an idea like a CATCH grant would have been very difficult for me when I started. So it’s gratifying to help people who are in that same position move forward with an idea and get a grant application together and implement that idea in their community,” said Dr. Lynch.



The grant cycle typically opens in November with a call for applications and closes in January. Selected projects are announced in April. Work on the project then usually begins the following June. But the work to prepare for a CATCH grant application submission can and should begin earlier to allow for community connections and partnerships to develop, as well as application drafting and refinement. All told, it can take between 10 and 20 hours to prep, but as the chapter CATCH facilitator, Dr. Lynch is ready to help interested applicants.



“One of my goals is that if someone is going to put in that work that they will get funded,” he said. In fact, you get additional points on your application if you work with your chapter CATCH facilitator in the process.&nbsp;



Once funded, CATCH grantees receive technical support from AAP, networking opportunities, and the potential to develop collaborations in their community that extend past the project timeline.



Dr. Lynch was recently joined by a co-facilitator, Chetna Mangat, MD, FAAP, who may eventually take over for him in the role as chapter facilitator. Typically, the chapter facilitator rotates every three years.&nbsp;



“I think it’s important that new people come into this position and bring new energy and new ideas,” he said.&nbsp;



If you are interested in the CATCH grant program, or in a future role as a chapter CATCH facilitator, contact Dr. Lynch at&nbsp;lynch.brian@mayo.edu.&nbsp;



<blockquote style="text-align:left" class="wp-block-quote is-style-default is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow"> Previous Minnesota CATCH Funded Grant Projects 2017 &#8211; Irreducible Grace Mental Health First Aid 2018 &#8211; Dialogue, Diseases and Debunking: Immunization Outreach to Minnesota’s Somali Community; MMR vaccine perceptions among Somali-Minnesotans 2019 &#8211; Health and Well-being for Homeless Families; Somali Mother Infant Lactation Experiences Project; Increasing LARC Access in Primary Pediatrics 2020 &#8211; Doctors and Teachers Improving Health Together </blockquote>

CATCH Grant Program Encourages Connection, Partnerships

<div class="wp-block-image"><figure class="alignleft is-resized"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" src="http://www.mnaap.org/wp-lib/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/MJ-Abuzzahab.png" alt="" class="wp-image-4106" width="102" height="183"/></figure></div>



Jennifer Abuzzahab is a pediatric endocrinologist at Children’s Minnesota and has been a MNAAP member since 2001. Dr. Abuzzahab answered these questions for Minnesota Pediatrician as this issue’s member spotlight.



<div style="height:100px" aria-hidden="true" class="wp-block-spacer"></div>



What made you choose pediatric endocrinology as your specialty? &nbsp;



I like the balance of hormone pathways, the ability to replace (most) deficits with bio-identical hormones, and the opportunity for patient continuity. I really like the Yin/Yang balance of it all. I chose pediatrics because kids are fun to work with and generally make me laugh every day.&nbsp;



What is a typical day like for you?&nbsp;



Every day is different! I have days where I am only in clinic (seeing outpatients), days/weeks where I am on call seeing inpatients, and days with blocked research time for our clinical studies. I love that there is not a “typical” day or week, although I did almost go to the wrong clinic once.&nbsp;



Prader-Willi syndrome (PWS) is a research area of interest for you. What drew you to study this genetic disorder?&nbsp;



It’s a fascinating condition and truly individuals with PWS can manifest many different ways across the spectrum of not only the genetic disorder but the stages of the disorder. I am proud to be part of the care team for several amazing kids (infants, school-age, teens, and young adults) with PWS and they have motivated me to look into ways to improve their lives. I also feel that there is some overlap between people with PWS and people with hypothalamic obesity following brain tumors. &nbsp;



Is there an area of advocacy work that you feel strongly about?&nbsp;



I am a strong advocate for preventive care and healthy lifestyles. I really believe that food is medicine. It is OK to eat candy or (my personal fav) Cheetos every now and then, but they are not every day foods. I promote more vegetables and fruits, or eating a rainbow every day.&nbsp;



What’s the funniest thing a patient has said to you recently? &nbsp;



There are so many to choose from. I think the best one was a 3 year old&nbsp; who was showing off their counting skills by counting their teeth. I am loosely quoting his proud and hysterical proclamation: “1, 2, 3, 4, 5…2, I have 2 teeth” &nbsp;

Member Spotlight: M. Jennifer Abuzzahab, MD, FAAP

The Anti-Racism and Disparities (ARD) workgroup met for a winter retreat this past January. It was a great gathering, full of reflection and discussion.&nbsp;



The purpose of this workgroup is to facilitate a chapter structure for members that is just, diverse, equitable, inclusive, and accessible; and to promote health equity for children of Minnesota as identified by Minnesota communities and families.&nbsp;



Here is an update on the work that this group wants to do together in 2023:



<div class="wp-block-image"><figure class="alignleft is-resized"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" src="http://www.mnaap.org/wp-lib/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Picture1-491x1024.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-4103" width="240" height="501"/></figure></div>



WORKGROUP



<ul class="wp-block-list"><li>Assist with Equity Consultant and website redesign</li><li>Provide ARD guidance for board and workgroups when needed</li><li>Work with national AAP &amp; other state chapters on ARD initiatives</li><li>Work with other professional state organizations to collaborate on ARD initiatives. </li></ul>



CHAPTER



<ul class="wp-block-list"><li>Create safe environment for group work, learning, and growth</li><li>Meet quarterly virtually </li><li>Have two retreats per year </li></ul>



MEMBERS



<ul class="wp-block-list"><li>Provide efficient ARD resources and communication</li><li>Provide and promote ARD education opportunities</li></ul>



COMMUNITY



<ul class="wp-block-list"><li>Amplify and participate in ARD community organizations’ work </li><li>Promote C&amp;TC access and utilization equity</li><li>Provide resources to improve parent and caregiver literacy levels</li></ul>



We are working on our chapter’s website redesign with the goal to have one page with ARD relevant Community Resources, Healthcare Worker Resources, and Workgroup sections.&nbsp;



We will also find ARD MOC4 projects for chapter members. We hope that this will give members opportunities to access ARD resources in a helpful and meaningful manner to advance this work together.&nbsp;



More news to come. Thank you for all you do for children and families every day!



Valeria Cristiani, MD, MPH, FAAP



Co-chair MNAAP ARD workgroup&nbsp;



Cristiani.valeria@mayo.edu

MNAAP Work Group Update:  Anti-Racism & Disparities

Early childhood education has been a popular term at the legislature this year! As pediatricians know (and most other people, young parents and legislators included, do not know), early childhood education is the same as early childhood life!&nbsp; No classrooms needed.&nbsp; An enormous amount of learning has to take place before any “schooling” or “kindergarten” or even “Pre-K” can succeed.&nbsp; The first thousand days of health, brain development and learning and life are the focus of the MNAAP Early Childhood Work Group. &nbsp;



Brain development occurs more consequentially and rapidly in the first 1,000 days than at any other time of postnatal life. Infants and preschoolers learn an enormous set of skills, but doing so is predicated on a strong foundation of relationships.&nbsp; &nbsp;



Babies must learn to direct their eyes, manipulate their arms and legs, grasp and maneuver objects in their world, and associate the look and feel and scent and taste of literally everything. As they get older, sitting up, rolling over, standing, walking, running, and turning somersaults all must be mastered. And that’s before learning the meaning of hundreds of words and how to say them.&nbsp; And all must be remembered for later use. What a wonderful organism that can accomplish all this in three to four years and in any language. (Sometimes more than one!)



But none of it can be accomplished alone. Early childhood “teachers” are parents and grandparents, and siblings and paid childcare providers—adults with an eye to the child’s developmental stage and needs and a consistent presence throughout. &nbsp; And perhaps more important, the brain cells and synapses that are not assigned a task and used repeatedly begin to be removed, “pruned”, toward the end of that same 1000 days—never to be available again!&nbsp;



Our Early Childhood Work Group wants to support you by collecting the practices, skills and knowledge to better empower families, educators and legislators to do the important work of early childhood support. To this end, we have started a lecture series on early childhood,&nbsp; bringing the newest science and best thinkers on topics such as autism identification, early brain development and trauma response.&nbsp; You can see those lectures on the MNAAP website (mnaap.org). Moreover, we have had a big presence at the legislature that belies the size of our patients, conveying the importance of the following topics:



We want to support the ability of families to be at baby’s side in the early critical period as well as consequential moments such as times of illness. This is why we have been supportive of Paid Family Medical Leave.



We have been ardent supporters of programs such as home visiting, Reach out and Read and Early Childhood Family education that promotes early learning and interaction.



Currently, our childcare “system” is lacking about 40 percent of the early childhood educators that it needs.&nbsp; Many families cannot find childcare at an affordable price if at all.&nbsp; And parents are forced to stay home and forgo some of the income they badly need. Advocating for childcare reform is imperative.&nbsp;



The Early Childhood Working Group would like to enlist you—as members of MNAAP, and as educators for the children and parents in your practices.&nbsp; Legislators need to hear your voice.&nbsp; Parents and families need your guidance and advice at every early childhood visit.&nbsp; Your local schools and childcare settings need your attention and support.&nbsp;



Please contact the chairs or members of the group to offer your advice and participation.&nbsp;



Early Childhood Work Group Co-Chairs:



Nate Chomilo, MD, FAAP (chom0014@umn.edu)



Krishnan Subrahmanian, MD, MPhil, DTM, FAAP (subrahm2003@gmail.com)



Roger Sheldon, MD, FAAP (rogeugshe@gmail.com)&nbsp;

MNAAP Work Group Update:  Early Childhood

A core function of the Minnesota Chapter of the American Academy of Pediatrics is to advocate on behalf of the state’s infants, children, and teens.



As a nonpartisan, pro-child organization, the chapter goes to bat during the legislative session to weigh in as child health experts on topics that have a direct impact on child and teen health and wellbeing.



This legislative session, MNAAP has offered support or feedback on a variety of topics including:



<ul class="wp-block-list"><li>paid family medical leave</li><li>reproductive health care access</li><li>firearm violence prevention</li><li>housing insecurity</li><li>free school lunches</li><li>banning conversion therapy</li><li>early childhood education</li><li></li></ul>



<figure class="wp-block-image"><img decoding="async" src="http://www.mnaap.org/wp-lib/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/No-family-should-have-to-choose-a-paycheck-over-bonding-with-their-newborn.-I-implore-Minnesota-lawmakers-to-support-Paid-Family-Medical-leave-for-all-Minnesotans.-1-1024x576.png" alt="" class="wp-image-4096"/></figure>



MNAAP President Eileen Crespo, MD, FAAP, testified before the Minnesota House Workforce Development Committee in support of paid family medical leave.



<figure class="wp-block-image"><img decoding="async" src="http://www.mnaap.org/wp-lib/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/MNAAP-Legislative-Testimony-1-1024x576.png" alt="" class="wp-image-4098"/></figure>



MNAAP Treasurer Janna Gewirtz O’Brien, MD, MPH, FAAP, participated in a press conference supporting the PRO Act, which protects reproductive health access in the state.



<figure class="wp-block-image"><img decoding="async" src="http://www.mnaap.org/wp-lib/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/MNAAP-Legislative-Testimony-1024x576.png" alt="" class="wp-image-4097"/></figure>



MNAAP Past President Sheldon Berkowitz, MD, FAAP, addressed the Minnesota House Public Safety Finance and Policy Committee in support of common sense firearm safety measures.

MNAAP Advocacy in Action

<div class="wp-block-image"><figure class="alignleft"><img decoding="async" src="http://www.mnaap.org/wp-lib/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/Chad-Fahning-Photo-headshot-e1631279097958.png" alt="" class="wp-image-3502"/><figcaption>Chad Fahning, MNAAP Lobbyist</figcaption></figure></div>



The new DFL-controlled legislature is off to a fast start in the 2023 legislative session. Legislators are wasting little time as they return to St. Paul for the first fully in-person session since 2020. With buzzwords like reproductive rights, firearm safety, public option, and paid family and medical leave echoing through its halls, the Capitol is once again a beehive of activity.&nbsp;



The House seems to be moving faster than the Senate this year. This is mostly because (1) the House has already passed many of the same bills in previous sessions and (2) their 4 vote DFL majority towers over the Senate DFL’s slim single vote margin. Where the experienced House leadership can push through progressive policies with members generally falling in line, the new Senate leadership needs to check with every member before moving a bill. If any one member is not on board, it is enough to halt a bill in its tracks.



Counting member votes takes time, but the Senate’s deliberate pace will need to quicken as committee deadlines are fast approaching. All bills on track to passing must be heard in at least one committee in either body by March 10 and must be moving in both bodies by March 24.



By those dates, we will have an updated state budget forecast from Minnesota’s Management and Budget, projected to be released on Feb. 27. In December, the surplus was a whopping $17.6 billion. If those numbers are reflected in this month’s forecast, we can likely expect some large figures when budget targets are released.



In his legislative proposal, Gov. Tim Walz pushed for a significant state budget increase, from approximately $50 billion biannual budget to about $65 billion for FY 2024, ’25. The plan would pour new funding into education, children, and families. In total, about $12 billion of the proposal is dedicated to items such as expanded pre-K, early learning scholarships, mental and behavioral health, a new child tax credit program, an increase in childcare assistance rates, and more. The proposal also creates a new Children, Youth, and Families Department and gives a sizeable bump to the general education funding formula. Referencing his time as a teacher, Walz declared he’s made it his “mission to make Minnesota the best state in the country for kids.”



There’s still a long road ahead this session, and with DFLers in the driver’s seat, we can expect a trunkful of spending initiatives and progressive policies. How much and which ones, however, will be determined in the coming months.

Legislature Off to Fast Start with Plenty of Road Ahead

When is the last time you had fun? I mean smiles all around and a real feeling of delight in what you were doing. I wanted to reflect here on the joy that has come from…pickleball. You may have heard about the fastest-growing sport in the U.S. with the funny name. Today, I wanted to focus on the FUN part.



Pickleball began as a pandemic activity for my husband and I; a way to get outside and socially-distance in those dark days of the beginning of COVID where there was nothing but uncertainty. The sport has a dedicated following, and some people take pickleball very seriously. I, however, have found pickleball to be one of the best ways to maintain and rekindle social connections.&nbsp;



Because pickleball has such a low barrier to entry, any age and physical condition can play pickleball if they want to. All you need is a paddle and court shoes. Despite what you might think, it isn’t just middle-aged or older people playing pickleball. I’ve seen parents playing with their kids, as well as a large number of teens and young adults trying pickleball, too. &nbsp;



Most importantly, pickleball has reminded me of the simplicity of the childhood invitation, “do you want to play?” To do something without judgment or the embarrassment that stops us from trying new things.&nbsp; You are a little lost, you learn and you can laugh a little or a lot. It really is the best medicine.



Eileen Crespo, MD, FAAP



MNAAP President



eileen.crespo@hcmed.org

Word from the President

<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001kSTLO1YMwYTudSgdTRwExrm0xXkFK61XajdJ62VMFiro44JEz7X_0mwFEx0ExlfcIhmxgpZpuwyfGfILlCuN6UjZZOWMcmTVt3PcC-r9TT-exYsEmEjfveMLdUXCIAtYSxu3lOqjhUl1i7-n4xV6qgLuuT3mUnyzCyz5rGVo3L3_h2OuhUKp_LSvdSyJk8_IHASIbHdU_NAtDMsN2shgFm68BKMxuOkJ&amp;c=Plymbp4eZrBiEBRLWGCdINMC4q-gB4CT1OA-NPPd0F-GxmnotKbeMQ==&amp;ch=UUB81pn-VWh7uJ0koVmCYrylqiHBBiH752EKVKus23ytiNO6i7hBpg==" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">HF5</a>&nbsp;(Jordan, DFL – Minneapolis), a bipartisan bill to allocate about $200 million annually to offer Minnesota students free breakfast and lunch, regardless of family income, passed off the Senate floor on March 14. It was then passed in the House on March 16, and signed into law the following day. Minnesota is now the third state in the nation to offer free school meals to students.



Governor Walz signed the bill into law at a ceremony in a Minneapolis elementary school alongside Lt. Gov. Peggy Flanagan and a pack of school children.



“I was one in six of those Minnesota children who experienced hunger. I was one of those children who grew up with a different colored lunch ticket because my family utilized free and reduced price lunch,” said Lt. Gov. Peggy Flanagan after the ceremony. “By providing free breakfast and lunch to all of our students, we are removing barriers and removing stigma from the lunchroom.”



Under the free meals program, students would be guaranteed access to the same school lunch provided to all other students under federal guidelines. The bill automatically enrolls students in the federal free school meal program. Previously, parents needed to apply for the free school meal program through a federal reimbursement program based on income.



Initial funding would start in the 2024 fiscal year, with $190 million. That amount would increase to $213 million by 2027.

Free School Lunches Passed by Legislature, Signed by Governor

Registration is now open for a free series of webinars hosted by the American Academy of Pediatrics aimed at addressing misinformation. The series takes place on several dates in April. The AAP designates this live activity for a maximum of 1.25&nbsp;AMA PRA Category 1 Credit(s)™. Topics covered include:



COVID Vaccination Disinformation 101: Understanding the Ecosystem



Participants will learn about disinformation distribution, how to&nbsp;identify the core bad actors and networks spreading disinformation, and the best practices for responding to disinformation online.&nbsp;The&nbsp;webinar takes&nbsp;place&nbsp;on April 4, 2023, from 10 -11:15 a.m. (CDT).&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001kSTLO1YMwYTudSgdTRwExrm0xXkFK61XajdJ62VMFiro44JEz7X_0mwFEx0Exlfcv8NjskA9OpdG1apNRCjx16zyvO6ATgssW0vLrhORlGBJ28x7MBBesKwLD9TMm5O0veDllhEPzqYv8HP-CkWez91EXv982wGUWu1jIFBBiMvtgCWsBPWXVYSa0YvKmdoZgRit9D6ni2E=&amp;c=Plymbp4eZrBiEBRLWGCdINMC4q-gB4CT1OA-NPPd0F-GxmnotKbeMQ==&amp;ch=UUB81pn-VWh7uJ0koVmCYrylqiHBBiH752EKVKus23ytiNO6i7hBpg==" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Learn more</a>.



Learn How to Identify and Respond to COVID Disinformation Threats in Social Media



The webinar will go over different types of responses to different types of threats and participants will practice with realistic scenarios.



The same course takes place&nbsp;on&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001kSTLO1YMwYTudSgdTRwExrm0xXkFK61XajdJ62VMFiro44JEz7X_0mwFEx0ExlfcaldmSeErRl-4cx_vMjpP1OHP9EV8QmSdEoBjpFbxa345CRBnDT_4BNcUd1cL4sHUKGuYoK5c_AcnqwfMr9KtDJXIjfiRvpOgGFhoZ3K_phzlePhtVN6QPvf5P0aH2zmWQgkHxmdyDEg=&amp;c=Plymbp4eZrBiEBRLWGCdINMC4q-gB4CT1OA-NPPd0F-GxmnotKbeMQ==&amp;ch=UUB81pn-VWh7uJ0koVmCYrylqiHBBiH752EKVKus23ytiNO6i7hBpg==" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">April 11</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001kSTLO1YMwYTudSgdTRwExrm0xXkFK61XajdJ62VMFiro44JEz7X_0mwFEx0ExlfcHVqSF_CTWnoXLwDhT-OTab8b1f1ohoV4UZrEdIfFW-LTKLh9Rb_0hjbeYnPDzuqC6HXEdxLiMKwOE687XGJ7GJ2GcyIFOpJo6SCXFXtL1jFn79KQhEwRAtVCh22WuddD1zl2bX2n3F0=&amp;c=Plymbp4eZrBiEBRLWGCdINMC4q-gB4CT1OA-NPPd0F-GxmnotKbeMQ==&amp;ch=UUB81pn-VWh7uJ0koVmCYrylqiHBBiH752EKVKus23ytiNO6i7hBpg==" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">April 18, 2023</a>,&nbsp;from 10 -11:15 a.m. (CDT)&nbsp;to allow for smaller groups. Click the preferred date above to learn more.



Countering COVID Vaccination Disinformation in Hispanic and Latino Communities



Participants will learn how to understand the interconnected community factor, how bad actors specifically target these communities, and how pediatricians can counter disinformation. 



The&nbsp;webinar takes&nbsp;place&nbsp;on April 25, 2023, from 10 – 11:15 a.m.&nbsp;(CDT)&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001kSTLO1YMwYTudSgdTRwExrm0xXkFK61XajdJ62VMFiro44JEz7X_0mwFEx0ExlfccoGMDV_c_7vH-E9J5OUdtChsW7_xicy1Q0cxIsl-prhmw08NMl13r6XZ3906R5Tn9Wm2QAvM3as4S-9-5oqRcIPOcHw9ESREnBKOTdjkI495IHKbGMSedlQIZs7drjO0kcNGEL3zB6Y=&amp;c=Plymbp4eZrBiEBRLWGCdINMC4q-gB4CT1OA-NPPd0F-GxmnotKbeMQ==&amp;ch=UUB81pn-VWh7uJ0koVmCYrylqiHBBiH752EKVKus23ytiNO6i7hBpg==" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Learn more</a>.

AAP Offers COVID Misinformation Webinar Series

Pediatricians in Minnesota have a large role
to play in the prevention, diagnosis, and linkage to care for young people in
regards to HIV infection.&nbsp; Each year,
young people in the state are newly diagnosed with HIV.&nbsp; Furthermore, there are young people who are
living with HIV in our state who need and deserve high-quality HIV-specific and
general primary care.&nbsp; 



The science of HIV prevention is advancing
rapidly, and includes behavioral approaches such as condom use, structural
approaches such as housing support and economic justice, and biomedical
approaches such as the promotion of pre-exposure prophylaxis or “PrEP”
medications.&nbsp; Pediatricians can work at
all of these levels, for example by using motivational interviewing practices
with young people to promote the use of condoms, advocating on a state level to
improve the social drivers of health for young people, and for making the
assessment of the need for PrEP and the prescribing of PrEP a routine part of
clinical practice.&nbsp; For more information
about the medications used as HIV prophylaxis, which are FDA approved for
adults and adolescents weighing greater than 35 kg, and guidelines for
prescribing, the CDC HIV Nexus Clinician Resources is open access and can be
found here:&nbsp; <a href="https://www.cdc.gov/hiv/clinicians/prevention/prescribe-prep.html">https://www.cdc.gov/hiv/clinicians/prevention/prescribe-prep.html</a>.&nbsp; 



It is critical that young people diagnosed
with HIV are quickly linked to HIV treatment services.&nbsp; The Youth and AIDS Projects (YAP) is a
grant-funded organization based in the Twin Cities and affiliated with the
Department of Pediatrics at the University of Minnesota.&nbsp; YAP has a thirty-year history of working with
youth and young adults, and is a resource for pediatricians and pediatric
service providers.&nbsp; YAP was established
in 1989 as one of the first HIV-service organizations in the US to focus on
young people, and continues to be guided by the principle that young people can
and do make responsible health-related decisions when given appropriate
resources and support.&nbsp; YAP staff are
deeply invested in helping young people with intersectional barriers to health
and are adept at working with other youth-centered agencies to address young
peoples’ needs.&nbsp; YAP staff are also
engaged in the training of the next generation of health care providers,
including resident trainees.&nbsp; YAP’s
current programs include comprehensive medical and non-medical case management
for young people ages thirteen to thirty years old who are living with HIV, HIV
treatment adherence, HIV testing, and health education/risk reduction for young
people living with HIV.&nbsp; YAP also is
engaged in Covid-19 vaccination education with a specific focus on vaccine education
for young people who identify as LGBTQ+.&nbsp;




For pediatricians and other pediatric service
providers who are seeing adolescent patients in a clinical setting, YAP staff
are a resource on diverse topics such as PrEP, counseling around HIV testing,
and linking young people who receive a reactive HIV test to care.&nbsp; YAP staff meet young people where they are,
for example meeting with recently young people in clinical settings in
collaboration with providers as the young people receive their results, in
order to provide immediate support and education.&nbsp; To refer a patient for services, or to
connect with YAP’s staff for other education and support, contact information
can be found on YAP’s web page under “service referrals:” <a href="https://www.yapmn.org/service-referrals.html">https://www.yapmn.org/service-referrals.html</a>.&nbsp; Additionally, service providers can directly
contact Val Crutcher, YAP’s Executive Director, at (651) 231-4849.&nbsp; Ms. Crutcher is one of the Twin Cities
experts on services for young people, with 32 years of experience working with
at-risk youth and 28 years working with youth living with HIV.&nbsp; She and the YAP team regularly assist
providers in navigating next steps for enrollment in YAP’s programs and other
referrals for young people.&nbsp; Ms. Crutcher
has built an incredible YAP team to address HIV-related health disparities more
effectively. Because YAP staff members have experienced many of the struggles
that young people living with HIV face, they have a unique ability to connect
with young people, a factor that facilitates engagement and ultimately improves
health outcomes.







About the Author



<div class="wp-block-image"><figure class="alignleft is-resized"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" src="http://www.mnaap.org/wp-lib/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Calla-Brown-819x1024.jpeg" alt="" class="wp-image-4066" width="126" height="158"/></figure></div>



Calla Brown, MD, MHR, FAAP, is an internist and pediatrician with clinical and research interests that include primary care, care of complex chronic medical conditions in children and adults, community health, and health justice. Her interest in these topics was cemented during her service as a Peace Corps Volunteer in Ecuador from 2003-2005. Dr. Brown is an assistant professor at the University of Minnesota Department of Pediatrics, she practices med/peds primary care at a local community health center and is the medical director of YAP [Youth and AIDS Projects] in the Twin Cities.



.

Supporting Young People Living with HIV: The Youth and AIDS Projects (YAP)

Amid a rapidly evolving online health information ecosystem, the American Academy of Pediatrics is excited to announce the launch of the&nbsp;Pediatric Digital Response Hub (PDRH). This online space is for pediatricians, children’s health advocates, and AAP-affiliates who use social media to promote health information and address misinformation.



Through resource-sharing and discussion, AAP will use the hub to explore and share best practices for both rapid-response and long-term messaging. Tthe hub activity will start with a focus around COVID-19 vaccination especially for children under 5.&nbsp;



If you are interested in joining the hub, please take a few minutes to complete the intake survey, linked&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001gKYrQErtt0hIpXIElP15uhSKFMFhC7iMrewZUPOKDGquXVbUTosIM_izY_t1oWYw8yZ1cOIEipIuttl1CC5loWvYx8N1GfNq4bAL5PnboNv5pGPgBciZSUbDeUTV2bB1AzKGwUUGq0QDbcUSthJB3YFeqST7RQmAZ6kyj_ny9wI=&amp;c=Nf_vKgY7lyJq0UCYyj62UjZeGTTmzNpimIP4cSvY4-e9JIke6VzSAg==&amp;ch=IID2qCkeD_U0uTEtShhQdry5_n2FAYFSFIpCc48UJ9FENoO2t4g9_Q==" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">here</a>. Please email Dan DeBrakeleer at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:ddebrakeleer@aap.org" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ddebrakeleer@aap.org</a>&nbsp;with any questions.&nbsp;

AAP Forms Pediatric Digital Response Hub to Fight Misinformation

<table class="wp-block-table"><tbody><tr><td>The Minnesota legislature continues to review and discuss efforts to legalize marijuana in the state, which could put products such as cannabis edibles more readily within the reach of children and teens. The American Academy of Pediatrics Orange County chapter collaborated with its local health department to develop&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001gKYrQErtt0hIpXIElP15uhSKFMFhC7iMrewZUPOKDGquXVbUTosIM_izY_t1oWYwRKGiY8rx8AsThMMVHaetOrTASjQrq9jkVVW2Gj5QSMxGunG9Pms6sHjGXXuuir0UAsgNqNkC12TihX3J9P1lNHsAbfolidDTGcmuWXFGTEJpRrSbybNshRTVhpTdK6VIxdUBX_lWhlCF5RFCVpRCTjqc8SQeLHM4uGPOABmKHJVxZtGir3Q338QilnODSCr_9gCoWFP_isk=&amp;c=Nf_vKgY7lyJq0UCYyj62UjZeGTTmzNpimIP4cSvY4-e9JIke6VzSAg==&amp;ch=IID2qCkeD_U0uTEtShhQdry5_n2FAYFSFIpCc48UJ9FENoO2t4g9_Q==" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">this flyer</a>&nbsp;to help educate parents, caregivers and families about the dangers of edible cannabis for children. You are welcome to reproduce and distribute this flyer to your patients and families. A recent study in the journal Pediatrics, January 3, 2023, found that in 2017, there were just over 200 reported cases of accidental consumption of cannabis edibles by children under six. In 2021, the number jumped to 3,054 – an increase of 1,375 percent. In total, there were 7,043 exposures to edible marijuana reported to poison control from 2017 to 2021 in children under six. The vast majority of the kids found the drug in their own home. While most children suffered mild impacts, 22.7 percent of exposed children needed hospitalization, and 8 percent of them – 573 children over the five years of the study – needed critical care.&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001gKYrQErtt0hIpXIElP15uhSKFMFhC7iMrewZUPOKDGquXVbUTosIM_izY_t1oWYwMy9YHhU9PU8xIgCggjTjZhhLFSqgDpj3GJt5dTP3xCk-nwJZbvy35g5jarLsuDu5iS92WmB9TgO5P_pnC8upcNJYFFIFtwXtaoPJdX0KjtXuwe-VC8UkUoA_f9Bmz8TNUHoclzyJaBWSBKBEDR66IV6HkRA1saq9c0_mCQKQBn3ApCT3fzhqgYP-KhGv37r73sEtuQnVFW96a6R3Vkn6vSHKgne93_wTnMCsAQJIRHyUgHUccE-O89E8qZrBa__lnxzQoQcmcgk=&amp;c=Nf_vKgY7lyJq0UCYyj62UjZeGTTmzNpimIP4cSvY4-e9JIke6VzSAg==&amp;ch=IID2qCkeD_U0uTEtShhQdry5_n2FAYFSFIpCc48UJ9FENoO2t4g9_Q==" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Reference (Pediatric Edible Cannabis Exposures and Acute Toxicity: 2017–2021. Pediatrics (2023) 151 (2): e2022057761).</a> </td></tr></tbody></table>



<table class="wp-block-table"><tbody><tr><td></td></tr></tbody></table>



<table class="wp-block-table"><tbody><tr><td></td></tr></tbody></table>

Resource Educates Families About Accidental Cannabis Consumption

As an MNAAP member, you play a critical role in advocating for the health and safety of your patients. As you may know, firearms are the leading cause of death for children in the United States. The issue of firearm death and injury is a public health crisis for Minnesota’s youth and demands immediate action. We need your help to urge Minnesota lawmakers to support common-sense firearm safety legislation to reduce the devastating toll of gun violence on kids. 



Please take a moment to reach out to your legislators and express your support for common-sense measures, such as safe storage laws, universalbackground checks, and extreme risk protection orders. The following bills are currently under consideration: 



<ul class="wp-block-list"><li><a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001TnXamQ5dmbr3zknnDnmnQmYw6IMUYK_mnrNIX8dkODHjtXYUeLUByRokf_5xqdgX5ZOD0NqhvmHA6BRaO9ykYcTvYD0PtdzPEuWyS5jIYZcVHTRZ_TROMhaxjZ820r153D_9txKS5wYbuszYlflaBSraI4KPCwIVuSJM5rlsTdkVhgAtfpnAnZ-TzhUzOejJ0O4Nwt7EaQT79LkRHC5nx303jfYa3_bA3VK8dvw3kio=&amp;c=2_Ci0VyKVmmupkEY4uZf6OSaXfciAppmYHt9SZTxqhmvR5RgV0MhYg==&amp;ch=zcWZ-xaVedicFvsDcwptQdVdypQ013U85-7lsiqJey__SmELRhoPHA==" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">HF14</a>/<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001TnXamQ5dmbr3zknnDnmnQmYw6IMUYK_mnrNIX8dkODHjtXYUeLUByRokf_5xqdgXOEGDpOPae_lQB5OCKMFDkOrshsT77WUtN1S5pTbiEHT3mGFBtezoqT7i-O9FJOqeUNNnjckl4jz5SPJOTdoQK2m4p44QsBX6JXzz3FSUYBD8HEjn8OThqes_bqMDeMAWPV6TXrHwSZ56dXU010DZoAYCN7Vb7RObvvBJHxy-S2k=&amp;c=2_Ci0VyKVmmupkEY4uZf6OSaXfciAppmYHt9SZTxqhmvR5RgV0MhYg==&amp;ch=zcWZ-xaVedicFvsDcwptQdVdypQ013U85-7lsiqJey__SmELRhoPHA==" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">SF1116</a>: Implementing universal background checks for firearm transfers.&nbsp;</li><li><a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001TnXamQ5dmbr3zknnDnmnQmYw6IMUYK_mnrNIX8dkODHjtXYUeLUByRokf_5xqdgX8sx_l6mfKx7_xR0iXbgLJ2TRL7vDUb-JbWQOpN-8TvDJaac3ge0w4FEp_WqegnmCnFQKXHc3wT8JkfmQV5tUntMTlYxfYJYEgV2c6UO533Ncoq8FZwsmcFZQG9Ki6r7TrwXuBj2-P4dhbeMIhkts-jq1HxPU5aQgE57xnv1Gp5M=&amp;c=2_Ci0VyKVmmupkEY4uZf6OSaXfciAppmYHt9SZTxqhmvR5RgV0MhYg==&amp;ch=zcWZ-xaVedicFvsDcwptQdVdypQ013U85-7lsiqJey__SmELRhoPHA==" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">HF15</a>/<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001TnXamQ5dmbr3zknnDnmnQmYw6IMUYK_mnrNIX8dkODHjtXYUeLUByRokf_5xqdgXWpLIEKKPfBSyHuQZMJ-QuaGvhq-IfWJtNAGcQZvH4UwuWSwH4OBxlhTxpJ0GHcjKTr3_kCy60tDhwaRWsAxfEM6Sc6iKI1BOUnYdSQVqoAVEIw2-l77xOFNvmm8EDc_vR8A7D2jAQOIQNNeAfqTPL5VRk_2THfSXDkzLrTyLKzw=&amp;c=2_Ci0VyKVmmupkEY4uZf6OSaXfciAppmYHt9SZTxqhmvR5RgV0MhYg==&amp;ch=zcWZ-xaVedicFvsDcwptQdVdypQ013U85-7lsiqJey__SmELRhoPHA==" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">SF1117</a>:&nbsp;Law enforcement and family members enabled to petition a court to prohibit people from possessing firearms if they pose a significant danger to themselves or others.&nbsp;</li><li><a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001TnXamQ5dmbr3zknnDnmnQmYw6IMUYK_mnrNIX8dkODHjtXYUeLUByRokf_5xqdgXwNCwgSq9JGEANeYlvOcELgH9fyDMugQDvIWwArHYGj9M5HM7hGSZnaDg4uOKsQulGiwB1kRuTb4VsZs5Bzcl7O7uzJNgG6lBjjXHforcgNRLUB2_6lI7Qz-IMsjqQHIoed7OVCEmgES7HoiQfmrDz0PZ87Q-h7kvM-G1pPaO5bo=&amp;c=2_Ci0VyKVmmupkEY4uZf6OSaXfciAppmYHt9SZTxqhmvR5RgV0MhYg==&amp;ch=zcWZ-xaVedicFvsDcwptQdVdypQ013U85-7lsiqJey__SmELRhoPHA==" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">HF396</a>/<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001TnXamQ5dmbr3zknnDnmnQmYw6IMUYK_mnrNIX8dkODHjtXYUeLUByRokf_5xqdgXii6kvup01w5Tgu6szBreFarqkSbS9b0O9DC6l5966tDk4-vHSzmQsmWwRsbyN9a9Oq1OjNeuEI88ZY9lXzqz5v0eD-yHW0ZA5DRiKtzIpgiL-M0N13NzsvDSwh2G7LWTwKzIwxbAlRVmJP8pL1ITYwjx84q7D4CbqS-5fSlYi-8=&amp;c=2_Ci0VyKVmmupkEY4uZf6OSaXfciAppmYHt9SZTxqhmvR5RgV0MhYg==&amp;ch=zcWZ-xaVedicFvsDcwptQdVdypQ013U85-7lsiqJey__SmELRhoPHA==" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">SF916</a>: Requiring safe storage of firearms and ammunition.&nbsp;</li><li><a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001TnXamQ5dmbr3zknnDnmnQmYw6IMUYK_mnrNIX8dkODHjtXYUeLUByRokf_5xqdgXz4LcoIBO_8z42Aqi_VNhP11g2Oa4C5GzzRQ7AeehY1rWOsN0g-n-FZi4ZkuRT8VvMOBf0dEbz-zCt92E0dG6wjASgQRwRYMScHsspLxvx4PugrrAoP-C36HiVqimssp8WiFM2a3kkkMw2iQyBS6_hCyn7S3frHt8mokYzoH4sSfyvxdvu60ywz8sWyBlPnA3ZG_0hsmyna3mQJPKVCPyxFrdELSrQFES&amp;c=2_Ci0VyKVmmupkEY4uZf6OSaXfciAppmYHt9SZTxqhmvR5RgV0MhYg==&amp;ch=zcWZ-xaVedicFvsDcwptQdVdypQ013U85-7lsiqJey__SmELRhoPHA==" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">HF601</a>/<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001TnXamQ5dmbr3zknnDnmnQmYw6IMUYK_mnrNIX8dkODHjtXYUeLUByRokf_5xqdgXpPJOrB1eoKxq5qU9cHgbvPLhPKdNrwRlSkDVybOg82EcK6pQ1xPnc-C4gM0gM1qmTDaQz4S-fNCwaKYFlromch8UXVoCxVhOeOqY4QrOYrpZ8wfEFYlJ5giIUVhNCLUNv50N9K9cBiQge-MILausYLa1hTbD7JxHayneFdcxLes=&amp;c=2_Ci0VyKVmmupkEY4uZf6OSaXfciAppmYHt9SZTxqhmvR5RgV0MhYg==&amp;ch=zcWZ-xaVedicFvsDcwptQdVdypQ013U85-7lsiqJey__SmELRhoPHA==" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">SF606</a>:&nbsp;Lost and stolen firearms required to be reported promptly to law enforcement.</li></ul>



Your voice is critical in the fight for common-sense firearm legislation. By speaking out, you can help make a difference in the lives of countless children affected by gun violence.Please contact your legislators today and ask them to support evidence-based firearm control measures. 



Together, we can make our communities safer and save lives. 



Click <a rel="noreferrer noopener" href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001TnXamQ5dmbr3zknnDnmnQmYw6IMUYK_mnrNIX8dkODHjtXYUeLUByV4vCKN5z-wW7ErSpTzx_FAMxZraBQRKh3CWpMz8R_JV2dIVBWWKTg9xwWpN5SnNzDRUDrUmDMiKhfhpxwTGxHYOcroJlIh5hPzWnqGFyJeDO_QJph0FDqX5A5fgT5jGQA==&amp;c=2_Ci0VyKVmmupkEY4uZf6OSaXfciAppmYHt9SZTxqhmvR5RgV0MhYg==&amp;ch=zcWZ-xaVedicFvsDcwptQdVdypQ013U85-7lsiqJey__SmELRhoPHA==" target="_blank">here</a> to find your state senator and representative and then call or email.  



You can use this sample script:



My name is [name] and I live at [address]. I am calling/emailing to express my support for common sense firearm safety legislation. [Add your personal story or a few talking points here about why firearm violence prevention is important]. Accidental firearm injury and homicide continues to be a major health concern for Minnesota’s youth. Firearms are also the leading method of suicide for adolescents aged 15 to 19. I hope Senator/Representative [X] will work with their colleagues to pass legislation that can help protect Minnesota&#8217;s children and teens from firearm violence. Thank you.

Legislative Alert: Feb. 10, 2023

The Minnesota Secretary of State is now is accepting applications for the Children’s Cabinet Advisory Council. Working in partnership with the Children’s Cabinet, members of the advisory council convene and align efforts around children and families. The advisory council is focused on promoting equity and addressing the opportunity gap from a whole family, whole system approach. Recommendations and feedback provided by the advisory council play a critical role in shaping the actions and policies of state agencies and the governor’s office, including the governor’s recent <a href="https://mn.gov/governor/minnesotabudget/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener" aria-label=" (opens in a new tab)">One MN budget proposals</a>.



The time commitment is one two-hour virtual meeting every other month, typically Wednesdays from 4-6 p.m. MNAAP Board Member Andrea Singh, MD, FAAP, currently sits on the advisory council and wrote about her experiences in an article for <a href="http://www.mnaap.org/advisory-council-focuses-on-minnesotas-children-amidst-tumultuous-year/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener" aria-label=" (opens in a new tab)">Minnesota Pediatrician</a> in December 2020.



Apply for the Children&#8217;s Cabinet Advisory Council&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001ioY--kDNAchyxhk2-rRIUYeZeVLh7NRRCseT5pr2g_zgqJo2twTVh3sAInvGB-xrzvdGaVXdqB44yoNSnnuWBRFU0ISNhwNerGXpmSCBJk7Gg9CmILdbOXEnBdkgSR2woQHwcOeOokcSiqZ081ZDkU-th1RqCoEtb43lf8XukDTtGQZrzKM1YzDlM9D2lHQtwX10gPMtDk1EGXszCf6jsg==&amp;c=hWqd6PUv4hpMbE-feEkEYLlORABGhsjCk2Te7iHpCW9uXl9WV_CkOw==&amp;ch=prox-0b6PIt1ptOdNSwK4Sme5lVJ8U5riKPhiJX6CVElph_wnAuD7A==" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">here</a>.

Open Seat Available on Children’s Cabinet Advisory Council

A message to MNAAP members from Mary Meyer, RN, NBC-HWC, clinical advisor of the Minnesota Department of Health Asthma Program; Jill Heins-Nesvold, MS, national senior director of Health Systems Improvement at the American Lung Association; and Tara Cliff, president of the School Nurse Organization of Minnesota:



It has been widely accepted that it is best practice to use a spacer or valved-holding chamber with a metered-dose asthma inhaler. The coordination needed for inhaling the medication at incredible speeds (up to 70mph) is difficult to achieve for most people. Spacers and valved-holding chambers optimize delivery of medication by increasing the amount of medication that reaches the lungs and make medication delivery more effective and very efficient.



The Minnesota Department of Health and our partners have fielded a plethora of feedback that spacers and valved-holding chambers are not routinely prescribed and/or dispensed alongside inhalers. School nurses report students regularly presenting with their inhalers but no spacer or valved-holding chamber and local health departments report home visits that uncover a lack of valved-holding chambers or spacers.



There are financial and logistical barriers for families to secure spacers and/or valved-holding chambers without the help of providers. Spacers and valved-holding chambers are considered medical device equipment so that without a prescription, they must be secured through a DME company and may not be covered by insurance.



Providers play a crucial role in ensuring every child who should be using a spacer or valved-holding chamber and has one. Writing a prescription for a spacer/valved-holding chamber alongside every inhaler (when indicated) will improve the benefit of using the medication (relief of symptoms). This action will help to avoid additional steps to get students what is needed to improve their asthma – steps that families often cannot or do not take.

Partners Ask for Help with Space-Holding Chamber Use

The Minnesota Department of Health (MDH) is considering modifications to the Communicable Disease Reporting Rules through the Minnesota rulemaking process. This rulemaking process will update Minnesota’s Communicable Disease Reporting Rules to address new and emerging communicable diseases, remove unnecessary provisions, clarify reporting conditions, and address other technical changes.



MDH published the “Request for Comments” (RFC) in the January 17, 2023, State Register and will be accepting comments until March 20, 2023, at 4:30 p.m. The department encourages you to review the RFC and submit comments. MDH will publish the specific modifications to the Communicable Disease Reporting Rules at a later date.



For a copy of the Request for comments and the rulemaking process, you can go to the



Department’s website at&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=0017fMpIgWvkkVyMzAkZKYRGSPOJdogQGIxQ4LgYjZpwTNJlKIik1QPPPOj5RlEkIoAR8-BQfNgdSAg48_bmCrTFHLOK_jF--TP7Sng5-Md3Q7R2Vl-7aWQ4iP9GFrtHeVk9ctc0R0PGv_7hYCJ0fwZg7u_Otz-LlbwTO0TBR5v3lHShwVwN5nbaYo9M-iWxNETdrVUaA8DKktgmZRqdiXBGvcLubmHJv7E&amp;c=z3CUhtVQK9WRd-54S0PI0H0qS-4OCkyg1_1jJ5mZmeQ_DY2Z7DqU7g==&amp;ch=u61kxqcAOHkTnb8YqKVldVHK1AJX1Ds04ahgK1EymqNQS12Z_80tfA==" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Amendment to Rules Governing Communicable Disease Reporting</a>. For further information on the amendments and the rulemaking process, contact Patricia Segal Freeman, Minnesota Department of Health PO Box 9441, St. Paul, MN 55164-0975, phone (651)201-5414 or 1-877-676-5414; fax 1(800)233-1817; email:&nbsp;<a href="mailto:health.Commdisrule@state.mn.us" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">health.Commdisrule@state.mn.us</a>.

Request for Comments Relating to Communicable Disease Reporting

If you were unable to participate in the most recent Early Childhood Work Group lunch and learn series installment, the replay is now available for you to watch on-demand.



Megan Gunnar, PhD, presented &#8220;Stress Reactivity and Regulation in Infancy: The Role of Relationships,&#8221; which covered the development of the stress system in the first years of life and the nature of the relationships that do and do not provide essential buffering of the system.



Dr. Gunnar is a Regents Professor at the University of Minnesota. She serves on the boards of Think Small, the Greater Minneapolis Crisis Nursery and is on the Advisory Council to Children’s Cabinet for the State of Minnesota.



Click this link to access the replay



<a href="https://us06web.zoom.us/rec/share/Z96VYhXJ2qpRfo1qZJJ6sotPZPCeK4wHvFphop4Kqh_8Ip8593sDM2zutCgcpLs5">https://us06web.zoom.us/rec/share/Z96VYhXJ2qpRfo1qZJJ6sotPZPCeK4wHvFphop4Kqh_8Ip8593sDM2zutCgcpLs5</a>



And use the passcode: &amp;rDRu6b=

Replay Available: Stress Reactivity and Regulation in Infancy: The Role of Relationships

<a href="http://www.mnaap.org/word-from-the-president-eileen-crespo-md-faap-2/">Word from the President | Eileen Crespo, MD, FAAP</a>



<a href="http://www.mnaap.org/dflers-look-ahead-to-2023-legislative-session/">DFLers Look Ahead to 2023 Legislative Session</a>



<a href="http://www.mnaap.org/inaugural-advocacy-scholarship-recipients-named/">Inaugural Advocacy Scholarship Recipients Named</a>



<a href="http://www.mnaap.org/member-spotlight-ashley-bjorklund-md-faap/">Member Spotlight: Ashley Bjorklund, MD, FAAP</a>



<a href="http://www.mnaap.org/mnaap-group-examines-physician-burnout/">MNAAP Group Examines Physician Burnout&nbsp;</a>



<a href="http://www.mnaap.org/grant-project-receives-white-house-mention/">Grant Project Receives White House Mention</a>



<a href="http://www.mnaap.org/wp-lib/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/Winter-2022-23-Minnesota-Pediatrician-For-Web.pdf">View Winter 2022 Minnesota Pediatrician as a PDF</a>

Winter 2022 Minnesota Pediatrician

The application process is currently open for the Child Health Collaborative Grant. Funding has been awarded annually since 2014 as part of a broader effort to support child health research partnerships among community and University of Minnesota researchers. CTSI, Children’s Minnesota, and the University of Minnesota’s Department of Pediatrics teamed up to create the program.



Up to $100,000 is available to support child health research partnerships that improve health outcomes for Minnesota children and adolescents.&nbsp;



Apply by January 27, 2023.&nbsp;For more information visit:



<a href="https://ctsi.umn.edu/funding/child-health-collaborative-grant">ctsi.umn.edu/funding/child-health-collaborative-grant</a>

Funding Opportunity: Child Health Collaborative Grant

MNAAP is one of 12 American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) state chapters around the country to participate in the AAP Food Insecurity grant project. AAP aims to offer training to all 67,000 of its pediatricians to screen for nutrition insecurity and refer patients to trusted resources. The initiative earned attention from the White House earlier this fall as it was highlighted during the White House Conference on Hunger, Nutrition, and Health.



In Minnesota, MNAAP is working with several partners including Ramsey County WIC, Minnesota WIC, and Hennepin County WIC to create a closed-loop family referral system between providers and the state’s Women, Infant, and Children (WIC) agency.&nbsp;



Currently, the project is piloting a read-only system between Hennepin Healthcare and Hennepin County WIC as well as working on a broader data-sharing initiative with the Minnesota Department of Health (MDH) with the objective of creating a streamlined, statewide system.&nbsp;



Participating state chapters meet with the national AAP food insecurity cohort to share ideas with and successes with other project teams.

Grant Project Receives White House Mention

Starting in early 2022, an ad hoc group of MNAAP members, led by MNAAP Past President Sheldon Berkowitz, MD, FAAP, met to discuss physician burnout. The topic was raised as an area of concern through the 2021 All Member Survey, and with good reason. Nationally, the American Academy of Pediatrics reported in October 2022 that prevalence of burnout increased for all pediatric disciplines from 2011 to 2014. During that time, general pediatricians experienced a more than 10 percent increase in burnout, from 35.3 percent to 46.3 percent. These numbers are pre-COVID-19 pandemic and do not reflect the experiences or emotions many physicians weathered.



The group focused their collective attention on burnout prevention and ways to improve provider self care. Members met several times via Zoom to discuss their own experiences and offer suggestions for helpful resources and ideas. Participants expressed an understanding that they may not be able to change the systems they work in, but they wanted&nbsp; to try and come up with things that may help individuals advocate for what they need to be happier in their job and feel less burned out. Some of the ideas and themes that emerged through discussion were:



<ul class="wp-block-list"><li>The need for resource lists that can help if you are suffering from burnout or help others who think a colleague/friend may be suffering from burnout. Similarly, identifying therapists who specialize in working with pediatricians/clinicians suffering from burnout.</li></ul>



<ul class="wp-block-list"><li>Some of the hospitals/health care systems have employee resource centers that can be helpful to employees with all sorts of needs, including needing to talk to a therapist. </li></ul>



<ul class="wp-block-list"><li>Engaging in conversation with peer-to-peer support partners or physician coaches can be helpful. Doctors often feel guilt (from their organization or their colleagues) when making decisions to take care of themselves. We need to be supportive of our colleagues, not put them down for looking out for their own well being.</li></ul>



<ul class="wp-block-list"><li>Non-compete clauses, especially in smaller communities, can be quite difficult as there aren’t options to change to a different clinic.</li></ul>



<ul class="wp-block-list"><li>Advocating for more time to see patients has brought more joy into the job.</li></ul>



Some articles group members shared as being helpful included:



“Getting Rid of Stupid Stuff”- The New England Journal of Medicine&nbsp;



In an effort to reduce unintended burdens for clinicians, leaders at a health system in Hawaii asked all employees to look at their daily documentation experience and report anything in the EHR that they thought was poorly designed, unnecessary, or just plain stupid.



“Changes in Burnout and Satisfaction With Work-Life Integration in Physicians During the First 2 Years of the COVID-19 Pandemic” &#8211; Mayo Clinic Proceedings&nbsp;



Researchers surveyed more than 2,400 physicians between December 9, 2021 and January 24, 2022 to evaluate burnout, work-life integration, depression and professional fulfillment. Results were compared to results from 2020, 2017, 2014 and 2011. &nbsp;



“Physician Distress and Burnout: The Neurobiological Perspective”- Mayo Clinic Proceedings&nbsp;



In this article, the co-authors examine how burnout and distress may lead to reduced motivation, unprofessional behavior, and suboptimal communication with patients.



“Wellness-Centered Leadership: Equipping Health Care Leaders to Cultivate Physician Well-Being and Professional Fulfillment” &#8211; Academic Medicine



The authors propose a new model of Wellness-Centered Leadership (WCL), which includes core skills and qualities from the foremost leadership philosophies, along with evidence on the relationship between leadership and physician well-being. It distills them into a single framework designed to cultivate leadership behaviors that promote engagement and professional fulfillment.&nbsp;



Hennepin Health R.I.S.E program for helping the well being of residents &#8211; Hennepin Healthcare’s Resident Integrated Support Environment (R.I.S.E) Program addresses the mental, financial, and physical health needs of residents by offering integrated support.&nbsp;



November 2022 AAP: “Physician Health and Wellness” &#8211;



This report explores approaches to pediatrician well-being and reduction of occupational burnout risk throughout the stages of training and practice. 



<a href="http://www.mnaap.org/physician-burnout-recommended-reading-and-resource-list/">Click here</a> for links to the articles mentioned by burnout group members, as well as a list of mental health providers who specifically work with physicians.

MNAAP Group Examines Physician Burnout

<div class="wp-block-image"><figure class="alignleft is-resized"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" src="http://www.mnaap.org/wp-lib/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/Ashley-Bjorklund.jpeg" alt="" class="wp-image-4012" width="194" height="243"/><figcaption>Ashley Bjorklund, MD, FAAP</figcaption></figure></div>



What led you to choose pediatrics?



Who wouldn’t choose pediatrics?? Just kidding. My short answer is kids are just the best. Who wouldn’t want to care for them? I am actually med-peds trained though, and so I do love the full spectrum of ages and patient care, but I think people would say I have always been kind of a med-PEDS type. 



When I decided to do critical care, I was drawn more to pediatric critical care. I have always enjoyed working with kids (as a coach, counselor, etc.) and I am drawn to advocating for those whose voice is less heard. I also find joy in working with families in times of critical need and enjoy the responsibility of partnering with these families and supporting them in decisions and understanding about their child’s illness. This all combined to make pediatric critical care a good fit for me.



You’ve been published with several articles about medical device innovation for low-resource settings. What initially got you interested in this topic?



I have had a passion for working in resource-limited settings and trying to lessen gaps and disparities in care since a young age. While in residency, I had the opportunity to do some training in Nicaragua and Kenya as part of the Internal Medicine and Pediatrics “Global Health Tracks.” I knew by the time that I was headed for this training that I was interested in pursuing a career in critical care and had sought out mentorship from Dr. Tina Slusher, a global pediatric intensive care physician. She introduced me to the idea of low-cost devices and had me do a needs assessment for pediatric respiratory support while I was in Kenya.&nbsp;



My passion for device work grew from seeing the disparities in what was offered in a high-resource U.S. hospital, compared to what was available in different hospitals globally. In the ICU, a lot of the care we provide is now technology and device dependent. Whether it be monitoring devices or respiratory support devices, there have been huge advances in what we have available to care for patients. Some of the biggest differences in ICU care in a high-resource setting, versus that available in a low resource setting are the technology and devices that are available.&nbsp;



Most of these devices had a blueprint, a simple way of making them prior to commercialization. I love going back to that blueprint and thinking about how we can safely, and more cost effectively, make the technology. I don’t have a biomedical engineering background, so we have to partner with those experts. Low-cost device innovation seems to be a simple way to lessen gaps in what is available in high- and low-resource settings.



You are a veteran, having served in the Navy at both Camp Lejeune and Walter Reed. What lessons or experiences from this time do you carry with you in your current role at Hennepin Healthcare?



I learned a lot of life lessons as a medical officer in the Navy. The greatest lesson was the value and strength of mission driven teamwork (an all hands-on deck, in this together attitude). The Navy also taught me about leadership, attention to detail, and how to be resilient. Logistically, I learned about contingency planning and disaster management.



At Hennepin Healthcare, I am the medical director of the pediatric intensive care unit. I find that my goal is always to foster that same sense of mission driven teamwork and “in this together” attitude as I experienced in the Navy. The COVID pandemic has placed a great deal of strain on the medical system, but my training prepared me to think through contingency plans and to be flexible with resources.



What is one advocacy issue that you feel drawn to?&nbsp;



Right now, the issue that is highest on my list is gun safety. We need to find better ways to protect our children from gun violence and to support those who are survivors of gun violence. Gun violence has become the number one cause of death in children. It is a health equity issue when you look at the groups that are impacted the most. There are simple measures we can take as pediatricians to make sure our families know how to safety store firearms. However, advocacy efforts that work to stop the violence is a much greater issue that needs higher level support.



How do you enjoy spending your free time?



I enjoy being active and doing outdoor activities with my husband (Seth) and two children (Otto, age 10, and Camille, age 8). We enjoy running, often with the kids biking alongside. We have two big dogs, Chopper (American Bulldog) and Shady (Basset Hound) who bring us much joy, and two guinea pigs, Cinnamon and Milky Way, that bring us many laughs.

Member Spotlight: Ashley Bjorklund, MD, FAAP

Two resident physicians have been selected as the inaugural recipients of the Eric Dick Advocacy Scholarship award. The award, named the after late MNAAP lobbyist, aims to engage residents in legislative advocacy projects. The projects focus on the health and wellbeing of children in Minnesota – particularly those focused on eliminating health disparities. Each awardee received $2,500 for their project and recently completed an policy orientation with MNAAP policy co-chair Hannah Lichtsinn and chapter lobbyist Chad Fahning.



Dr. Wendy Sun is a pediatric resident physician at the University of Minnesota. Her project focus will be on addressing disparities in access to pediatric mental healthcare.



Dr. Sarah Swenson is a pediatric resident physician at the University of Minnesota. Her project will focus on promoting systems change and health care policy solutions for improved identification and treatment of perinatal mood and anxiety disorders (PMADs).

Inaugural Advocacy Scholarship Recipients Named

For the first time since 2014, DFLers will have the “trifecta,” or control over the Minnesota House, Senate, and Governor’s Office. In the State House, DFL members will have 70 votes to Republicans’ 64. The DFL majority in the Senate is slimmer, with a one-vote majority (34 DFL, 33 Republican).



Both bodies will see new leadership. The lone legislator to maintain a leadership position is Rep. Melissa Hortman (DFL-Brooklyn Park), who will remain as speaker of the House. Rep. Jamie Long (DFL-Minneapolis) was voted majority leader and House Republicans chose Rep. Lisa Demuth (R-Cold Spring) as minority leader.&nbsp;



On the Senate side, Sen. Kari Dziedzic (DFL-Minneapolis) and Sen. Mark Johnson (R-East Grand Forks) were elected as majority and minority leaders respectively. Sen. Bobby Joe Champion (DFL-Minneapolis) will be the new president of the Senate.



Leadership will work with many new faces around the Capitol. Seventy-one of the 201 legislators are new, with 57 being “true freshmen” – the other 14 previously served in a different body or in non-consecutive terms.



The 2023 legislative session kicks off on January 3 with many DFLers bringing a long policy wish list into the new year. These include, among others, passing firearm safety reform, paid family leave, statewide legalization of recreational cannabis, and codifying the right to an abortion in Minnesota statute.&nbsp;



Legislators will also be tasked with passing a state budget by the end of the fiscal year and will likely be dealing with a projected $17.6 billion budget surplus leftover from 2022. However, the slim DFL majorities in both bodies, paired with the ever-complicated nature of factional politics, should temper expectations.



MNAAP will be offering regular legislative updates via email throughout the 2023 session. To receive full legislative updates on a biweekly basis, you must be a member of MNAAP. The emails provide additional details about legislative issues that are not posted on our website and are for members only. Contact Communications Manager Bethany Venable by email venable@mnaap.org if you are not receiving these updates.&nbsp;

DFLers Look Ahead to 2023 Legislative Session

<div class="wp-block-image"><figure class="alignleft is-resized"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" src="http://www.mnaap.org/wp-lib/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/Dr.-Eileen-Crespo-576x1024.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-3918" width="144" height="256"/><figcaption>Eileen Crespo, MD, FAAP</figcaption></figure></div>



I’ve had the opportunity over the last few months to get involved in the work of pediatrics on the national level. Through the most recent American Academy of Pediatrics Annual Leadership Forum (ALF) and even a few weeks ago at our annual legislative priority meeting for MNAAP, I saw the great passion with which pediatricians view their work. We all know this instinctively, however, to see hundreds of pediatricians gather in a (large) room and hammer out the issues that are important to pediatricians right now was meaningful.&nbsp;



The ALF process was particularly impactful to me. Dozens of resolutions are submitted on a wide range of issues that affect child health and the practice of pediatrics.&nbsp; The resolutions are whittled down through spirited discussion, an amendment process, and adoption or not. All of the attendees then have an opportunity to rank the adopted resolutions, selecting the top 10. This is exceedingly difficult given that the adopted resolutions included topics such as supporting children orphaned by COVID-19, expanding education to care for transgendered children and increased transparency regarding equity, diversity, and inclusion outcomes in medical school pediatric departments.



After considering many impactful resolutions, the number one resolution endorsed was supporting our pediatric advocates experiencing adversity. Multiple pediatricians present gave testimony on how they had been harassed after advocating for science at state legislatures and reported that some of the most negative interactions occurred at school board meetings. As one of the pediatricians who was targeted via online, telephone, and even postal harassment, I felt seen.



We are passionate about the work we do because it literally affects children’s quality of life, their families, and their futures. Who can feel that way and be complacent?

Word from the President | Eileen Crespo, MD, FAAP

The Minnesota Department of Health (MDH) would like to have a better understanding of the need for and resources available to respond to mental health concerns in children and adolescents.



As part of this work, MDH has hired Wilder Research to conduct surveys and key informant interviews with pediatric care providers to gain better insight. MDH is interested in how two resources can be better integrated and improved to align with the needs of patients and providers in Minnesota.



Your feedback will help improve the experiences of other health care providers seeking assistance with youth mental health consultations.



Wilder Research is interested in talking with you about your experience as provider in your community, understanding mental health resources and the underutilization of specific resources to better address mental health. They also interested in recommendations for how to make these resources more available and accessible.



If you are available for a 30-45 minute interview, please sign up for a time slot at <a href="https://slotted.co/mdhpalft﻿" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener" aria-label="https://slotted.co/mdhpalft (opens in a new tab)">https://slotted.co/mdhpalft</a>. If you are unavailable for an interview, but know of another pediatric provider that may be interested, please pass this email on to them.



We appreciate your time and the information you share!

Help Improve Mental Health Consultation Experiences

The Minnesota House Health Finance and Policy Committee heard on Thursday morning the introduction of bill <a href="https://www.revisor.mn.gov/bills/text.php?number=HF1&amp;type=bill&amp;version=0&amp;session=ls93&amp;session_year=2023&amp;session_number=0" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener" aria-label=" (opens in a new tab)">HF1</a>, which aims to establish the fundamental right to reproductive health access.



The bill, known as the &#8220;Protect Reproductive Options Act,&#8221; received support from MNAAP through a letter to Chair Tina Leibling (DFL-24B) and committee members. Signed by MNAAP President Eileen Crespo, MD, FAAP, on behalf of MNAAP members, the letter states:



&#8220;Our state chapter shares the position of the American Academy of Pediatrics, who has long supported access to all options regarding undesired pregnancy, including the right to obtain an abortion. Undesired pregnancy has a profound, multigenerational impact on children, adolescents, and families. When access to comprehensive sexual and reproductive healthcare is restricted, youth and families from marginalized communities bear a disproportionate burden, magnifying long-standing inequities.&#8221;



You can read the full letter <a rel="noreferrer noopener" aria-label="here (opens in a new tab)" href="http://www.mnaap.org/wp-lib/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/MNAAP-Letter-of-Support-PRO-Act.pdf" target="_blank">here</a>.

MNAAP Supports Reproductive Health Bill

The 2023 Minnesota legislative session began on Tuesday, Jan. 3, with the DFL holding control in the house, senate and governor&#8217;s office for the first time in 10 years. In addition to this historic change-up, the state currently projects a more than $17 billion budget surplus.



When pediatricians, pediatric medical sub-specialists and pediatric surgical specialists join together, we can do amazing things for children and their communities.&nbsp;MNAAP offers many opportunities to connect, advocate and make a difference based on your schedule and interests, such as:



<ul class="wp-block-list"><li>Attend the annual Pediatricians’ Day at the Capitol on&nbsp;Tuesday, March 14, to meet with legislators about specific issues.</li><li>Stay on top of changes to Minnesota law affecting children, families and providers along with opportunities to voice opposition or support for key bills. Be sure you’re receiving bi-weekly legislative updates during the session.</li><li>Offer to testify or help provide background information for legislators to consider before voting on a specific bill.</li><li>Write opinion pieces or letters that align with MNAAP legislative priorities and submit them to local media outlets, school board, and local government officials.</li><li>Respond to action alerts – occasional emails urging members to contact their representatives by phone or email about a particular issue.</li></ul>

Get Involved This Legislative Session

More than 45 percent of all U.S. children experience dental caries – or tooth decay – by age 19, and disparities due to poverty, insurance and language barriers prevent many families from accessing proper care at a dentist’s office.



The American Academy of Pediatrics addresses this chronic and common childhood disease within an updated clinical report, “<a href="https://publications.aap.org/pediatrics/article/151/1/e2022060417/190307/Maintaining-and-Improving-the-Oral-Health-of-Young?autologincheck=redirected" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener" aria-label="Maintaining (opens in a new tab)">Maintaining</a><a rel="noreferrer noopener" href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001sUDgIwkUzvP0hm1cg5iz7TTacfrhHbTgFfqNgz9d8lWOKgm4lBkZc53el20I2pAF9WN8FYgeAMhFUZkTrwIdlUJ381673kG1zP8BezWwnFnRl3gd0I6CnM_3IQdLWAL3c2aQOnN2wxqTo2vsnhds4feQdQzndZVptusnDnLygPb6Rwzcze7EIcu3hsGeCqD3uHCj9UQbTZbnUAgn_XLWdR10YsIVgE2aCFSDXz3QyvqYSLbuEJOZ2F6Cvgj9xT5O4Cx_gZQf3DifoEefMP8vLZ01l6oRKI_o41aGHfcbiFJSgAhw3Hhd69BG-p0fzIPFb6ihS_83Jx4RYf5Btkxna8UAKbzEdrsK&amp;c=rwiA0tt63fKSDvEFuMxFNL4PYeae_XXXNbDVuqNJgqzbCrTtg_zoAQ==&amp;ch=jAGjcMV5Js_6Iy6gJrdeuEJMxQnPLgnis0trdgSvLQtpOiz1c2Gsbw==" target="_blank"> and Improving the Oral Health of Young Children,</a>” published in the January 2023 Pediatrics (published online Dec. 19).



To help with conversations with parents and families about their child&#8217;s oral health, consider using this HealthyChildren.org resource:&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001sUDgIwkUzvP0hm1cg5iz7TTacfrhHbTgFfqNgz9d8lWOKgm4lBkZc53el20I2pAFYgp4-EHydlnrjwRpiT_2Pje9LmCML9narAO6DT_D82kUF8HkXZiExyk9RTQDzKqx-cf4EezYBVw9WDtqASeyqsFpqKWV1BjMUeeWd_Tz28KrZJQqhGyl-VeXD8HZ84Y9pBaDrIPlYJcQ2kVJIjTWnkGMLjaLpERp4me_YdTJBhnCkdI8TwsWPVH_dB3Bo1aJWo4JZH9gpLXaE12nKcxGDFhtA4yQUVLe&amp;c=rwiA0tt63fKSDvEFuMxFNL4PYeae_XXXNbDVuqNJgqzbCrTtg_zoAQ==&amp;ch=jAGjcMV5Js_6Iy6gJrdeuEJMxQnPLgnis0trdgSvLQtpOiz1c2Gsbw==" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Good Oral Health Starts Early:&nbsp;AAP&nbsp;Policy Explained</a>.

AAP Updates Recommendations on Maintaining, Improving Children’s Oral Health

The Minnesota Department of Health (MDH) is sponsoring a community-led initiative in the state called the <a href="https://www.health.state.mn.us/people/childrenyouth/earlychild" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener" aria-label=" (opens in a new tab)">Minnesota Integrated Care for Early Childhood Initiative</a>. An initial goal of this initiative is to conduct a comprehensive systems assessment focusing on early childhood services for African American families and children – especially related to how early childhood services coordinate with health care. The Systems Assessment will provide insight on what is working well, what is beginning to work more effectively, what gaps remain, and where opportunities exist to address these gaps.



As part of its work, MDH is interviewing early childhood health professionals to gain better understanding of the early childhood healthcare system. MDH is interested in learning more about what your experiences have been with providing services to African American families and children, what challenges and barriers exist, and what could help to improve services for this population.



The interviews will be facilitated by Rainbow Research via Zoom and will take approximately an hour. If you are interested in participating in an interview, please schedule a time at: <a rel="noreferrer noopener" href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001UZimsa88UDw8Y4Xedq0hc_l09fj9CbVBqDT0RoFH7hL6oGK6wUS9pPneBQ7c6JtVgnFZdMGyGKqIxVxcxEQ9ggay-jgrahFasdynU6Wj7yF5GSkRZ0Jd84PNTugMa0JE-mYJqt6LCdrPNEIpasCBB8Bou718cBOONbHfyZPmW4fYZkOkZZqYfw==&amp;c=1LIn8AiLo0AJ2n3UoiaHUHEVTfeQnE2uYbg_JgQUA9ouwBbCQmfMMw==&amp;ch=BP6_zwMNHd9hXqZMLqjdceQsQqpMJs9h8P8CbgTFrz9zjB6unOCG3A==" target="_blank">https</a><a href="http:// https://calendly.com/tv_rr/mn-iceci-interviews" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener" aria-label=": (opens in a new tab)">:</a><a rel="noreferrer noopener" href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001UZimsa88UDw8Y4Xedq0hc_l09fj9CbVBqDT0RoFH7hL6oGK6wUS9pPneBQ7c6JtVgnFZdMGyGKqIxVxcxEQ9ggay-jgrahFasdynU6Wj7yF5GSkRZ0Jd84PNTugMa0JE-mYJqt6LCdrPNEIpasCBB8Bou718cBOONbHfyZPmW4fYZkOkZZqYfw==&amp;c=1LIn8AiLo0AJ2n3UoiaHUHEVTfeQnE2uYbg_JgQUA9ouwBbCQmfMMw==&amp;ch=BP6_zwMNHd9hXqZMLqjdceQsQqpMJs9h8P8CbgTFrz9zjB6unOCG3A==" target="_blank">//calendly.com/tv_rr/mn-iceci-interviews</a>



A Rainbow Research team member will reach out to you to confirm the appointment time and send a Zoom link. If you have questions or would like more information, please reach out to Thao Vang at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:tvang@rainbowresearch.org" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">tvang@rainbowresearch.org</a>.

MDH To Examine Early Childhood Services and Health Care

Dr. Megan Gunnar, Regents Professor at the University of Minnesota Institute of Child Development, will be talking about the effects of toxic stress on early child development. Join the presentation using this Zoom link: <a href="https://us06web.zoom.us/j/770365703">https://us06web.zoom.us/j/770365703</a>Meeting ID: 770 365 7035

Monday, January 16; 12:15 – 1 p.m. | Early Childhood Speaker Series

Sam Marzouk, PhD, LP



An alarming trend has emerged over the past decade.&nbsp; A growing number of adolescents are seeking treatment for depression.&nbsp; Jean Twenge, a researcher at San Diego State University, found that between 2005-2017 there was a 52 percent increase in the rate of major depressive disorder among adolescents aged 12-17.&nbsp; There was a 63 percent increase in depression among those aged 18-25 during the period 2009-2017.&nbsp; Many have interpreted this trend through a lens of optimism, seeing it as evidence that the stigma around mental illness is abating, and adolescents are now more willing to seek professional help for symptoms.&nbsp; Others cannot help but notice the suspicious timing of this spike in adolescent depression with the ubiquity of social media and smartphone usage.&nbsp; Researchers across multiple disciplines have examined the relationship between social media and adolescent mental health.&nbsp; While there’s much we do not know, we are slowly starting to shed light on the deleterious impact social media usage can have on the well-being of our teenagers.&nbsp; 



There are likely multiple
etiological factors that explain the recent rise in adolescent depression.&nbsp; However, the evidence establishing a link
between social media and adolescent depression is too powerful to ignore.&nbsp; Most research has examined the impact that
mere “time” on social media has on adolescent depression.&nbsp; For example, Keles’s 2020 meta-analysis
synthesizing the evidence of 13 studies found a modest but statistically
significant relationship between time spent on social media and increased
depression.&nbsp; The daily amount of time
spent on social media has been closely examined, with most studies finding that
two or more hours a day is strongly correlated to increased depression symptoms.&nbsp; The effects of light social media usage (i.e.,
less than one hour a day), on the other hand, are less clear.&nbsp; Nearly all research with older adolescents
suggests that light social media usage does not lead to poorer mental health
outcomes, with some findings suggesting light usage may even offer psychosocial
benefits such as increased social connection to peers.&nbsp; Among preteens and younger adolescents, there
is a noticeable lack of research examining effects of light social media
usage.&nbsp; While there is little debate
regarding the negative effects of heavy social media use on adolescent mental
health, this conclusion offers little clinical utility for practicing
clinicians.&nbsp; The nagging question remains:
what is it about social media that may cause depression in teenagers? 



Studies have begun to look beyond the
effects of mere time spent on social media platforms.&nbsp; For example, a small number of studies have
explored the differing effects of social media usage by age.&nbsp; There is strong evidence to suggest that
preteens and younger adolescents are far more vulnerable to the negative
impacts of social media compared to older adolescents.&nbsp; Bullying often peaks during the preteen years,
with smartphones and social media providing a 24/7 bullying platform.&nbsp; Even without bullying, early adolescence is a
fragile and malleable time for identity development, with younger teens less
likely to question the distorted realities presented on social media. &nbsp;While light social media use may be beneficial
for older adolescents, there is no evidence suggesting this finding is
generalizable to younger adolescents.&nbsp; Gender
has also emerged as another key variable with social media negatively affecting
adolescent girls far more than boys.&nbsp; Finally,
some research has looked at how specific social media behaviors influence
mental health outcomes.&nbsp; Nesi and
Prinstein (2015) found that adolescents who use social media more for social
comparisons and reassurance seeking (e.g., posting a capture with the
caption, “Do I look pretty today?”) tended to report higher depression symptom
severity.&nbsp; 



The wheels of science move slowly,
and there is much more to unpack in this area.&nbsp;
It may be a while before we get to the truth regarding social media and
adolescent mental health.&nbsp; Considering
what we currently know, I’ve assembled the following working list of
recommendations for parents regarding teens and social media use.&nbsp; I plan to regularly update my recommendations
as new research is published. 



<ol class="wp-block-list"><li>No social media until high
school.&nbsp; Period.&nbsp; As described above, there is strong evidence
to suggest that younger adolescents and preteens are most vulnerable to the
negative effects of social media.&nbsp; While
this may be pragmatically difficult to implement, the evidence is clear that
children younger than 15 are at the highest risk. &nbsp;&nbsp;</li><li>If adolescents under 15 are on
social media, limit usage to less than one hour per day.&nbsp; For older adolescents limit usage to less
than two hour per day.&nbsp; While total time
on social media is only one variable of interest, it’s allowed us to see how heavy
use can be particularly detrimental to adolescent mental health. </li><li>There should be no social media
usage within one hour before bedtime.&nbsp; The
evidence suggests that social media usage can lead to delayed sleep onset and
decreased total sleep time, thereby fueling the development of depression
symptoms.&nbsp; &nbsp;</li><li>At first, allow teenagers to access
platforms that place a stronger emphasis on social connection (e.g.,
social discord, reddit, snapchat) versus social comparison (e.g.,
Instagram).&nbsp; We have learned through
research how social media platforms can amplify an adolescent’s pre-existing
tendency to engage in upward social comparison.&nbsp;
Furthermore, we know that one of the few reasons why light social
media use can be beneficial for mental health is that it affords the
opportunity for adolescents to feel more socially connected.&nbsp; </li><li>Monitor social media
behaviors.&nbsp; As discussed, time on social
media is just one piece to this complicated puzzle.&nbsp; What the adolescent is doing on social media
may be more important.&nbsp; I advise parents
to closely monitor social media use and keep a particularly close eye on
behaviors such as reassurance and feedback-seeking that have been found to be
associated with depression. &nbsp;</li></ol>



While we have learned much about social media and the possible harmful impact it may have on adolescents, there are still gaps in the literature and key questions unanswered.  Future research should consider comparing the effects of various social media platforms.  It would also be helpful to gain more insight into how specific social media behaviors influence mental health (e.g., number of posts per day, etc.)  Shedding light on the nuances behind total time spent on social media will help develop more insightful and robust recommendations.  Finally, as with any relationships between two variables, there are exceptions and outliers.  It would be helpful to better understand what protective factors could serve as a buffer for adolescents against the harmful effects of social media.  At the end of the day, social media is here to stay and it’s our job to help teenagers use it responsibly and minimize its many risks.  



About the Author



Sam Marzouk, Ph.D., L.P. is a pediatric psychologist and owner of Promethean Psychology in Edina, Minnesota. A strong advocate for evidence-based psychology, Dr. Marzouk is passionate about translating research into clinical practice to empower children, adolescents and families.

Social Media and Adolescent Mental Health: What We Actually Know

“Getting Rid of Stupid Stuff” – The New England Journal of
Medicine



In an effort to reduce unintended burdens for clinicians,
leaders at a health system in Hawaii asked all employees to look at their daily
documentation experience and report anything in the EHR that they thought was
poorly designed, unnecessary, or just plain stupid.



Link: <a href="https://www.nejm.org/doi/full/10.1056/NEJMp1809698">https://www.nejm.org/doi/full/10.1056/NEJMp1809698</a>



“Changes in Burnout and Satisfaction With Work-Life
Integration in Physicians During the First 2 Years of the COVID-19 Pandemic” –
Mayo Clinic Proceedings



Researchers surveyed more than
2,400 physicians between December 9, 2021 and January 24, 2022 to evaluate
burnout, work-life integration, depression and professional fulfillment.
Results were compared to results from 2020, 2017, 2014 and 2011. &nbsp;



Link: <a href="https://www.mayoclinicproceedings.org/article/S0025-6196(22)00515-8/fulltext">https://www.mayoclinicproceedings.org/article/S0025-6196(22)00515-8/fulltext</a>



“Physician Distress and Burnout: The Neurobiological Perspective”-
Mayo Clinic Proceedings 



In this article, the co-authors examine how burnout and
distress may lead to reduced motivation, unprofessional behavior, and suboptimal
communication with patients.



Link: <a href="https://www.mayoclinicproceedings.org/article/S0025-6196(20)31500-7/fulltext">https://www.mayoclinicproceedings.org/article/S0025-6196(20)31500-7/fulltext</a>




“Wellness-Centered Leadership: Equipping Health Care Leaders
to Cultivate Physician Well-Being and Professional Fulfillment”



The authors propose a new model of Wellness-Centered
Leadership (WCL), which includes core skills and qualities from the foremost
leadership philosophies, along with evidence on the relationship between
leadership and physician well-being. It distills them into a single framework
designed to cultivate leadership behaviors that promote engagement and
professional fulfillment.&nbsp;



Link:<a href="https://journals.lww.com/academicmedicine/fulltext/2021/05000/wellness_centered_leadership__equipping_health.29.aspx">https://journals.lww.com/academicmedicine/fulltext/2021/05000/wellness_centered_leadership__equipping_health.29.aspx</a>



Hennepin Health R.I.S.E program for helping the well being
of residents:



Hennepin Healthcare’s Resident Integrated Support Environment (R.I.S.E) Program addresses the mental, financial, and physical health needs of residents by offering integrated support. According to the Hennepin Healthcare website, resident and fellow physicians are at elevated risk for developing depression compared to the general population. They are also less likely to utilize mental health services. 



Link: <a href="https://www.hennepinhealthcare.org/hennepin-healthcare-foundation/rise-campaign/">https://www.hennepinhealthcare.org/hennepin-healthcare-foundation/rise-campaign/</a>



November 2022 AAP: Physician Health and Wellness



In this report, the reader can explore approaches to
pediatrician well-being and reduction of occupational burnout risk throughout
the stages of training and practice. Topics covered include burnout prevalence
and diagnosis; overview of national progress in physician wellness; update on
physician wellness initiatives at the American Academy of Pediatrics; an update
on pediatric-specific burnout and well-being; recognized drivers of burnout
(organizational and individual); a review of the intersection of race,
ethnicity, gender, and burnout; protective factors; and components of wellness
(organizational and individual).&nbsp;



Link: <a href="https://publications.aap.org/pediatrics/article/doi/10.1542/peds.2022-059665/189767/Physician-Health-and-Wellness">https://publications.aap.org/pediatrics/article/doi/10.1542/peds.2022-059665/189767/Physician-Health-and-Wellness</a>



<table class="wp-block-table"><thead><tr><td>Mental Health Providers for Professionals   Medication Management: <a href="https://psychiatrymn.com/bryan-schwieters/">Dr. Brian Schwieters</a> (does not accept Medica insurance) 2781 Pilot Knob Rd Eagan 55121 651-289-7300   <a href="https://oakridgecenter.vistaprintdigital.com/">Oak Ridge Center</a> 14665 Galaxie Avenue Suite 210 Apple Valley 55124 952-431-6033   <a href="http://www.deborahcoenmd.com/DC/home.html">Dr. Deborah Coen, MD</a> 700 – 12 Oaks Center Dr #235 Wayzata 55391 952-746-3330     Psychology Resources: <a href="http://www.abct.org/get-help/">www.abct.org/get-help/</a>   <a href="http://www.fast-trackermn.org">www.fast-trackermn.org</a>      Individual Counseling: <a href="http://drlisasquire.com/">Lisa Squire</a> PhD LP 7800 Metro Parkway #300 Bloomington 55425 952-854-2440   <a href="https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/therapists/nancy-lawroski-minneapolis-mn/66755">Nancy Lawroski</a> PhD LP 2904 Humboldt Ave S Minneapolis 55408 612-767-1987   <a href="https://www.drsandrashallcross.com/">Sandra Shallcross</a> PhD LP 17508 Minnetonka Blvd Minnetonka, Minnesota 55345 &amp; 1409 Willow Street Suite 400 Minneapolis, Minnesota 55403 <a href="tel:+1-612-712-5138">(612) 712-5138</a>   <a href="https://www.matthewsyzdek.com/">Matthew R. Syzdek</a> <a href="https://www.matthewsyzdek.com/">PhD LP</a> Lakeville, MN <a href="tel:+1-651-571-9871">612-986-1749</a>   *Many thanks for Hennepin Healthcare for sharing this list of providers and resources. </td></tr></thead></table>

Physician Burnout: Recommended Reading and Resource List

So what is the duration of &#8220;Early Childhood?&#8221;  Of course, it varies.  This is biology after all.  But for policy purposes, it is often simplified to &#8220;the first 3 years&#8221; or &#8220;the first 1,000 days.&#8221; Notice the inaccuracy creeping in?  We probably need to say, &#8220;until the child goes to kindergarten,&#8221; but that age varies as well, often as late as 5 or 6. 



Perhaps a better definition would be until the child&#8217;s brain is fully formed, or when the great majority of possible neurons have populated that brain.  Perhaps when the neural connections are well underway or when the pruning away of unused cells and circuits has sculpted a more specialized &#8220;person.&#8221;



You get the picture: it&#8217;s just inexact.  Most of all this has mostly happened by the age of 3 or 4, so let&#8217;s not forget about the child who holds up three fingers and says &#8220;I&#8217;m three.&#8221;  



No matter the child&#8217;s age, we should never miss an opportunity to teach every preschool parent about the marvelous and crucial things going on inside that brain and how to help them along.

If “Early Childhood” and its amazing brain growth and development starts in utero, when does it end?

The Minnesota Chapter of the American Academy of Pediatrics shares with the state&#8217;s childcare workers and school leaders a similar goal of keeping children healthy and safeguarding them as they grow and learn. 



It is understandable that after years of stress and uncertainty brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic, increased cases of other respiratory illness, such as RSV, would bring about a desire for extreme caution. However, current guidance from the national American Academy of Pediatrics (Clinical Practice Guideline: The Diagnosis, Management, and Prevention of Bronchiolitis, 2014) states that testing for RSV testing is not indicated for the majority of children. Most children with RSV will have runny nose, cough and some may have a fever, similar to many other viral illnesses. In most cases, RSV testing does not predict who may go on to have a severe course. In most outpatient settings for children with bronchiolitis, routine specific respiratory viral testing has little effect on management and is not recommended. 



Requiring testing of children or teens, particularly asymptomatic children and teens, for RSV to return to a group setting is not consistent with medical recommendations. RSV tests can stay positive for several weeks post-infection and should not be used to test for cure. 



The decision to return to childcare or school should be based on clinical symptoms, including the child being fever free for at least 24 hours, lack of shortness of breath and some improvement of overall symptoms. Masking upon return from any upper respiratory illness also helps prevent transmission and should be encouraged in children older than two years of age upon return to group settings after an acute respiratory illness until symptoms completely resolve. We recommend following these community standard guidelines for returning to school, rather than requiring a letter from a physician. 



We ask Minnesota childcare centers and schools to encourage families and caregivers to follow reasonable procedures to help prevent the spread of respiratory illness in the childcare setting. There are many viruses that cause similar respiratory illnesses and all should be treated with good hand washing hygiene and keeping a sick child home while they are symptomatic.



A note to parents and caregivers: To help keep healthcare facilities that care for children from becoming overwhelmed, please keep all eligible children up-to-date with childhood immunizations, particularly influenza and COVID vaccines, which are both approved for children 6 months of age and older. Vaccination against COVID-19 and influenza decreases the risk of severe illness and hospitalization.



View the statements here:



<a href="http://www.mnaap.org/wp-lib/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/MNAAP-RSV-Childcare-Guidance-111522.pdf">MNAAP RSV Childcare Guidance</a>



<a href="http://www.mnaap.org/wp-lib/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/MNAAP-RSV-School-Guidance-111622.pdf">MNAAP RSV School Guidance</a>

Childcare Centers, Schools Should Not Require RSV Testing or Physician’s Letter for Return

Join the Early Childhood Work Group on Monday, November 28th, from 12:15 pm &#8211; 1 pm. via Zoom for its next installment in the speaker series. 



This lunchtime event will feature Dr. Michael Georgieff, Martin Lenz Harrison Land Grant Professor of Pediatrics at the University of Minnesota, where he is executive vice-chair of Pediatrics, and Co-Director of the Masonic Institute for the Developing Brain.



Dr. Georgieff&#8217;s talk will be about the developmental origins of mental health in children. He will discuss the importance of environmental influences in the first 1,000 days on the developing brain and how those influences can set a pattern for mental health across the lifespan. He will use nutrition as the primary example of environmental influence and at the end of the talk will discuss policy implications of when and how to intervene to optimize brain development and mental health in our children. 



Join Zoom Meeting: <a rel="noreferrer noopener" href="https://us06web.zoom.us/j/7703657035" target="_blank">https://us06web.zoom.us/j/7703657035</a>



Meeting ID: 770 365 7035

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