Post Conference Reflections, APHA’s Annual Meeting, San Francisco, CA

This year’s meeting was one that this blogger will remember as the last of their student career. The depth with which health research was conveyed was impressive. Topics varied from the struggles of those in developing nations including Sri Lanka, Africa and other countries to the policy issues facing more developed areas including the UK, Canada and the US.

One cannot leave out the sections represented at APHA. Taking part in the business meetings and networking dinners was a valuable resource allowing one to gain insight into years of experience from a diverse gathering of researchers from varied disciplines and continents.  

I would be remise if I failed to recount the most impressive residents of San Francisco…the sea lions. The opportunity to visit Pier 39 near Fisherman’s Wharf was one not soon forgotten. The hilarity and comedy that was exuded from this unique sea life will bring most to laughter.

The South Carolina Rural Health Research Center and the Arnold School of Public Health at the University of South Carolina were represented well. Several presentations ranging from Oral Diseases &  Oral Health Disparities, Structural Barriers & Vulnerabilities in HIV/AIDS Prevention & Care, Innovation in Technology, Native American & Alaska Native home health quality and EHR use among Residential Care Facilities were presented by both Faculty and doctoral student researchers.

I would also say that the 24 hour coffee shops were helpful.

In all, the meeting was well worth attending.