Updates from AUCD/NCRN National COVID Resiliency Network; Newsletter No. 28, December 2023

Morehourse School of Medicine, NCRN, and AUCD logos

Newsletter No. 28 | December 2023

Events

Navigating the Future: The Evolution of Healthcare AI

Don't miss this event tomorrow, December 14, from 12 to 2 PM ET.

Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning, and Generative AI (AI/ML/GenAI) have become ubiquitous topics of conversation within the healthcare industry and the world at large. These technologies hold great promise to advance the practice of medicine and improve patient treatment and outcomes. The Faculty Development Program at the National Center for Primary Care is hosting Dr. Monica Coley and Dr. Naqi Khan to discuss the opportunities, risks and ethical concerns related to AI/ML/GenAI.

Join us and be empowered to embrace AI as a transformative leap along your digital journey!

COVID-19 News and Resources

Vaccine Experiences of Two Self-Advocates

This fall, newly updated (2023-2024 formula) mRNA COVID-19 vaccines are available for adults. These vaccines target the XBB.1.5 Omicron subvariant and other recent strains.

Find two stories below from Self-Advocates who got the updated COVID-19 shot. Use the graphics and caption provided to share their stories.

Graphic pictures Tyler Haynes, a black man with a Band-Aid on his arm, wearing a white t-shirt and glasses. Text reads: Tyler Haynes' Vaccine Story: "I had a really great experience getting my COVID-19 vaccination because the pharmacist and staff at Walgreens were so nice and helpful. The shot went very quickly!"

Tyler Haynes got his COVID-19 shot at Walgreens where the pharmacist was really kind and explained all the information about the shot so that Tyler could understand. Before his appointment, friends and family helped Tyler understand why getting the COVID-19 shot is important.

Use NCRN’s Support Finder to find a location near you for your next shot.

Graphic pictures Hari Kannan, an Indian-American man smiling who wears a peach button up shirt. Text reads: Hari Kannan's Vaccine Story: "Shots help people, it helps us and helps others. So get the shots when you can."

Hari Kannan got the COVID-19 shot because he wanted to stay safe and protected against COVID-19. Excited to start meeting people in person again, Hari went with his mom to an Arc Clinic for shot appointments where they did not have to wait in a long line. All of Hari’s family and friends got the shot too, this made him feel better about getting the shot.

Use NCRN’s Support Finder to find a location near you for your next shot.

Vaccination reduces severe symptoms and may help prevent Long COVID. Vaccination is recommended for everyone six months and older.

Appointments are free to book online with the NCRN Support Finder.

COVID-19 Vaccine Myths and Facts Handout

Read myths and facts about COVID-19 vaccines. The resource is available in English and Spanish.

Find More Information

Outreach for COVID-19 Vaccines

The Association of University Centers on Disabilities (AUCD) created a vaccine outreach social media messaging toolkit with shareable resources including graphics and drafted captions. Please use the toolkit to help spread awareness in your community.

Access the Toolkit

Image of two young adults and one toddler sitting in the grass.

Research Highlights

Graphic shows image of 5 people sitting in circle together and talking.

Recovery is Real

The burden of substance use disorders has been increasing for decades. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), overdose rates in minority communities increased by at least 3 percent between 2020 and 2021. Non-Hispanic Native Hawaiian or Other Pacific Islanders saw a 47 percent increase in drug overdose rates, and non-Hispanic American Indian and Alaska Natives saw a 33 percent increase during this time.

The COVID-19 pandemic intensified existing health disparities among underserved communities in particular. Ensuring that care is culturally, racially, and ethnically appropriate is critical to an individual’s substance use treatment and recovery.

Substance use disorder is a complex disease. There is no one-size-fits-all solution for helping a family member in recovery. Several resources and support tools are available from the National COVID-19 Resiliency Network (NCRN) for those in recovery, their families, and community leaders, including:

Recovery requires time, patience, motivation, commitment, and support. By working together, we can help reduce the stigma associated with substance use disorders and recovery and connect equitable care to those who need it most.

With the Support Finder, you can find health care centers, substance use support, mental health and behavioral health resources, food banks, and counseling near you. For more information, visit the NCRN website or call 1-877-904-5097. Download the NCRN app on Google Play or the App Store today.

NCRN Updates

New Website Feature

Support Finder results can be translated into 13 languages. Check out the updated Community Tool.

Latest Podcast Episode

Check out the latest episode of "Connections: Lessons in Building Healthy Communities."

Morehouse School of Medicine News

Black students that helped develop the first COVID-19 vaccine have emotional reunion at the Morehouse School of Medicine. Learn more about their story.

Flu Season is Here

The flu affects millions of people each year. It’s a mild illness for many. However, people over the age of 65, young children, marginalized communities, and those with certain health conditions are at higher risk of serious flu complications.

Find a Flu Vaccine Near You

For more information, visit the NCRN website or call 1-877-904-5097. 

Download the NCRN app on Google Play or the App Store today.