Health Observances in Action: Successful Case Examples (Breast Cancer, Autism and Heart Health Awareness Months)

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This SHSMD Education Webinar will showcase how three hospitals promote popular health observances, including American Heart Month, National Autism Awareness Month, and National Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Learn how they have engaged and educated their communities during these awareness months.

February: American Heart Month
Presenters: Lisa Schwenk, BS, MBA, Director of Public Relations & Community Outreach, Augusta Health and Krystal Moyers, Health Educator, Augusta Health

Every February, Augusta Health hosts a Heart Health Fair for the community to promote American Heart Month, coordinating with departments from across the hospital to offer free screenings and heart health education. The screenings include carotid artery, blood pressure, and stroke assessments; sleep assessments; BMI, glucose, and pulmonary function tests; and a cholesterol panel. Heart healthy refreshments are available along with a nutritional display from a dietician. Last year, Augusta saw 300 people during the three hour event.

April: National Autism Awareness Month
Presenter: Jason Jakubowski, Vice President for External Relations, Hospital for Special Care

Hospital for Special Care (HSC) is home to the first and only patient-centered specialty practice (PCSP) for children with autism in the entire country. As a supplement to its clinical services in this area, HSC has spent the past several years observing April as National Autism Awareness Month. Their activities range from the cosmetic (such as lighting the hospital blue at night) to the programmatic (such as inviting a nationally known author to talk with families affected by autism). HSC also hosts a “Spectrum of Kindness” microsite throughout the month for families and friends of autistic children nationwide to share their personal videos and stories online.

October: National Breast Cancer Awareness Month
Presenter: Amber M. Cava, VP Marketing & Community Relations/Foundation, Sampson Regional Medical Center

This presentation will share how a rural community hospital campaigns during National Breast Cancer Awareness Month to: 1) generate public awareness and education about breast cancer; 2) promote self-exams and annual screening mammograms; 3) and increase mammography volumes through extended-hours service. The presentation will offer specific planning details (budget, timelines, logistical details, marketing collateral, and community partnerships) related to two essential campaign events -- The Pink Brunch and Moonlight Mammograms.

April: National Volunteer Week
Presenter: Sandy Marshall, CAVS, Director of Public Relations, Philanthropy and Volunteer Services Immediate Past President, AHVRP, LRGHealthcare, Laconia, New Hampshire

Don’t forget about the recognition days! During National Volunteer Week in April, we recognize health care volunteers who add value to the patient care delivery model and contribute to high patient satisfaction scores. Learn new ideas for celebrating and recognizing these important contributors at your hospital.