The South Dakota Association of Healthcare Organizations (SDAHO) Quality and Integration team recently presented at the 2023 South Dakota Chronic Disease Partners and Better Choices, Better Health South Dakota Annual meeting. The event took place October 11-12, 2023, at the Highland Conference Center in Mitchell, South Dakota.
The program provided specific examples of South Dakota Chronic Disease programs, services and initiatives that focus on partnerships and community engagement. Michelle Hofer, SDAHO’s Clinical Improvement Consultant was excited to be part of this two-day event. “Presenting at the annual meeting was a great opportunity to provide details of the project we have been working hard on, to a unique group of influential professionals from across South Dakota. Spreading the word about the great resources available to help individuals and their families is SO important.” Michelle Hofer, BSN, RN, CPHQ – Clinical Improvement Consultant, SDAHO
The SDAHO Quality team presented on Opioids and the work SDAHO is doing with the State of South Dakota on Avoid Opioid SD. This is a joint effort between the SD Department of Health and the Department of Social Services to address opioid abuse and misuse in South Dakota and part of the states Opioid Abuse strategic plan. Loretta Bryan, a Clinical Improvement Consultant with SDAHO, took part in the presentation. “It was an honor to represent SDAHO and the work we are doing with this project at the conference.” Loretta Byran, BSN, RN, CPHQ, Clinical Improvement Consultant, SDAHO
Both Bryan and Hofer have worked with healthcare professionals over the past year educating them on Avoid Opioid SD. Hofer says this in-person event was a great opportunity to work with healthcare professionals face to face, which is extremely important. “We just never know who the right person might be to hear our message. Being able to meet face to face is even more important. It allows us to really drive home the importance of the work we are doing, and also allows us to answer any questions attendees might have while the information is fresh in their minds and the ideas are flowing.” Michelle Hofer, BSN, RN, CPHQ – Clinical Improvement Consultant, SDAHO
According to Bryan, those attending the event left feeling engaged and more informed about resources SDAHO has to offer. “This conference allowed us to meet other professionals across the state and network about services we provide our patients.” Loretta Byran, BSN, RN, CPHQ, Clinical Improvement Consultant, SDAHO
Attendees were able to learn more about the Community Information Exchange, Community Wellness Program ideas, Health Information Exchange in Behavioral Health and more. Those in attendance came from a variety of healthcare related professions including public health, advocacy, coalitions, Community Health Workers, Wellness representatives and Tribal and Indian Health Partners.
To learn more about SDAHO’s efforts with Avoid Opioid SD, visit our quality webpage.
