On November 1, the Northern Colorado Health Sector Partnership hosted their 12th annual Healthcare in Your Future Summit in the First National Bank Building at The Ranch fairgrounds. Over 200 participants attended the morning seminar. Master of Ceremonies Jonas McKinley gave the introductions of the sponsors and explained the four committees involved with the Summit: Leadership, Workforce, Behavior Health, and Outreach & Awareness. Guest speakers included Dr. Chris Fellenz with Kaiser Permanente, who explained KP is a leading non-profit health provider in Colorado. KP treats specialty care patients in a more timely manner with serving over 3600 patients by 600 Primary Care Physicians. Sr. Community Health Specialist Lisa Romero & Community Health Project Coordinator Michelle Lacklore explained the patient benefits at KP.
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Clinical pharmacists Katelyn Currier and Ellie Rone with Associates in Family Medicine, part of the Village MD organization discussed the weight loss medicines and how they work in today’s environment.
Jeff Grobowski, CEO at Epic River, discussed the impact of artificial intelligence in billing systems, high deductibles, and the ability to collect. He indicated the average FICO credit score didn’t change over the past 15 years. After 2009 with COVID, FICO dropped due to adjustable mortgage rates and credit card issues. Today, 66% of Americans felt they couldn’t pay their health care bills.
Nicole Caputo, Senior Director of Experience & Innovation at UCHealth discussed virtual reality use with cancer patients. Virtual reality is used for distracting cancer patients, reduce anxiety, and escape reality.
Kris Geerken, Co-Director of Changing the Narrative. explained the effects of ageism on economic security, intergenerational connections, and laws & regulations on ageism. Ageism is a risk factor impacting social, emotional, and physical health. It can shorten life spans and increase social isolation. Ageism shows up in systems, societal beliefs, and policies. Historically, older people have been excluded from clinical trials and ageism was prevalent during the pandemic.
Cyndy Luzinski, Founder & Executive Director of Dementia Together, discussed their SPECAL® Method, a UK-originated, evidence-based dementia care model. SPECAL® is applicable for family care partners, senior care workers, healthcare professionals, and community members. SPECAL® provides the “what, why, and how” to practically and positively manage the disability of dementia in ways that promote lifelong dignity and well-being for people experiencing it.
Cyndy also mentioned their Memory Cafes, various support groups, and other networking events.
UCHealth Northern Colorado CEO Kevin Unger talked about UCHealth’s plans for the future.
Lisa Marini, owner of Lisa Marini Coaching LLC, explained elevating behavioral health in healthcare regarding stress. Lisa showed how stress affects your brain and body. She explained how stress affects your relationships, career, family, and your mood. She talked about how neuroplasticity can transform your life, help you through stress, find new energy and a sense of peace, and become the best in you as possible.
Overall, the 12th annual Healthcare in Your Future Summit was a success with over two dozen vendors providing vital healthcare services in Northern Colorado.