In today's world, the impact of health disparities and social determinants of health on population well-being cannot be overlooked. To combat these challenges effectively, it is essential to utilize advanced technological tools. One such tool is ArcGIS, a powerful geographic information system (GIS) software that enables professionals in the health care field to better understand and address health disparities and social determinants of health. Dr. Kristy Bondurant, AFMC’s epidemiologist and director of data sciences and public health programs departments, and Sydney Lewis, supervisor of AFMC’s data sciences team, both know the impact ArcGIS can have on presenting near real-time data to the public in an impactful way.

In the world of health care, it is crucial for professionals to understand the unique challenges faced by patients with sickle cell disease. Beyond the physical symptoms and complications, these individuals often endure a silent battle against the stigma surrounding their condition. With a higher pain threshold and the ability to carry out daily tasks despite chronic pain, they are often met with skepticism from health care workers who struggle to comprehend their level of suffering. Moreover, the emotional toll of witnessing their loved one’s struggles and grappling with their own mental health issues further exacerbates their already complex situation. Dr. Sunny Singh, hematologist and oncologist at the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences in Little Rock, helps shed light on the stigma and discusses the importance of empathy and support from health care workers.

Between managing the cost of student loans, stagnant wages, and inflation, many students are struggling to afford to pay for basic essentials, such as food. According to a Hope Center survey at Temple University in 2020, out of 195,000 students at four-year colleges, nearly 30% reported experiencing food insecurity. For students at two-year colleges, that number is nearly 40%. With the end of the public health emergency in May, eligibility requirements for federally funded hunger relief programs have changed. Now, students who relied on federal funds for the last three years have to find a new way to get food. To help ease the burden, some colleges and universities have used donations, grant money, and student funds to build food pantries on campus.

The healthcare sector has experienced a dramatic digital shift in recent years, powered by remarkable advances in technology. Central to this transformation is the rapid integration of artificial intelligence (AI) into our daily lives. One fascinating application of AI that has captured the attention of the medical community is ChatGPT, a sophisticated large language model launched by OpenAI in November 2022. Leveraged ethically and appropriately, this technology holds the potential to redefine the way medical professionals engage with patients, access information, and provide personalized care. This blog will explore the exciting possibilities offered by ChatGPT in the medical field.

Caretaker burnout is a prevalent issue affecting millions of caregivers worldwide. It occurs when caregivers become overwhelmed, exhausted, and emotionally drained from their duties. This can have a severe impact on their physical and mental health, leading to anxiety, depression, and even chronic illness. As health care providers, we are responsible for identifying and supporting caregivers experiencing burnout. Dr. Rhonda Mattox, a board-certified psychiatrist and president of the Arkansas Medical, Dental, and Pharmaceutical Association, recently went on AFMC TV to discuss the importance of self-care and how telehealth has changed psychiatry for the better. Dr. Mattox says caretakers usually put patients’ concerns first, often leaving their own needs on the back burner.