In this conversation, Dr Nusheen Ameenuddin discusses with host Dr Saba Fatima her journey into advocacy for children's health, the challenges of vaccine hesitancy, and the importance of engaging with families. She emphasizes the impact of misinformation and the need for pediatricians to advocate for healthcare equity, especially in light of Medicaid cuts. The discussion highlights the role of empathy and community support in addressing these issues, while also offering hope for the future of healthcare through the engagement of young people and the importance of persistence in advocacy efforts.

Dr. Nusheen Ameenuddin is an Assistant Professor of Pediatrics in the Division of Community Pediatric and Adolescent Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, at the Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN. She previously served as Chair of the American Academy of Pediatrics Council on Communications and Media, in addition to Chair of Equity, Inclusion and Diversity of the Mayo Clinic Health System.
She is most passionate about advocating for underresourced populations who face barriers to healthcare. Dr. Ameenuddin has participated in vaccine education outreach with the Minnesota Department of Health, partnering with leaders in the Somali community and visiting mosques throughout the state.
Dr. Ameenuddin also has a strong interest in health equity and the effects of media on children. She helped spearhead a video campaign using social media as part of the AAP’s #KeepKidsCovered initiative. • Pediatricians Speak Up to Protect Medicaid...
She testified before the US House of Representatives Committee on Energy and Commerce about children’s media use during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Dr. Ameenuddin attended Kansas State University where she completed a BS in biology, cum laude, and a minor in Spanish. She received her MD and MPH degrees from the University of Kansas Medical Center. She completed a pediatrics residency at Mayo School of Graduate Medical Education. She was selected as a Commonwealth Fund Fellow in Minority Health Policy at Harvard Medical School where she also completed a Master of Public Administration (MPA) degree at the Harvard Kennedy School of Government.

takeaways
Advocacy can occur in both clinical and legislative settings.
Seeing children thrive brings joy to pediatricians.
Health equity is a personal mission for many healthcare providers.
Vaccine hesitancy has evolved, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Listening to families' concerns is crucial in addressing vaccine hesitancy.
Misinformation campaigns significantly impact public health.
Pediatricians must engage with local legislators to advocate for children's health.
Medicaid cuts can severely affect children's access to healthcare.
Building trust with families is essential for effective communication.
Young people today are more connected and savvy about health issues.
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#advocacy, #vaccine hesitancy, #healthcare #pediatricians

The views and opinions expressed in this episode are those of the guest and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the 'Muted in Medicine' podcast or its host. The information shared is intended for educational and informational purposes only and should not be taken as professional advice.

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