This past meeting of health policy researchers at
AcademyHealth’s Annual Research Meeting was one full of promise. The content covered
included some of the latest and most innovative technology and research in the
field. Topics ranged from Propensity Score’s
to Knowledge Translation & more.
Those in attendance were provided with several unique opportunities to network
and explore new & innovative research. 
The SCRHRC was well represented as 3 Research Associates (Grishma
Patel, MPH, Deshia A. Leonhirth, MBA & Samuel Towne, MPH, CPH) were
selected to present their research along with 2 professors (Kevin J. Bennett,
Ph.D. & Amy Brock Martin, DrPH). Topics ranged from End Stage Renal
Disease, Use of Electronic Health Records (EHRs) in Residential Care
Facilities, Health Disparities in the Delta Region, Home Health Care Quality in
Areas with high levels of Native American & Alaska Native individuals &
Health Information Technology in Regional Extension Centers & the Impact on
Physicians Implementation of EHRs.
The location was set in the heart of Walt Disney World, which had its own unique interest. Obviously, many were expecting Sunny Florida, however Tropical Storm Debby gave us a bit more rain than sun to say the least. Some didn't seem to mind the weather (i.e. ducks).
In all, the future of health services research is moving
forward with knowledge dissemination activities such as this and others. As health
research & policy moves forward one may hope that the best available
evidence is available to those who can use it to improve the health of the
nation & global environment.
