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Sandra Millon Underwood, Ph.D. |
She will present a lecture titled “Nursing’s Contributions to the Elimination of Health Disparities among African Americans” on Monday, Oct. 29 in the UNMC College of Nursing Cooper Auditorium, Room 1010, from 1 to 2:30 p.m. Continuing education credit is available. The first 60 attendees will receive a free sack lunch.
Dr. Underwood’s visit originated with an Omaha group called “My Sister’s Keeper,” which provides health information, mentoring and support for women of color who are diagnosed with breast cancer.
Organizer Jackie Hill, a seven-year cancer survivor, is a community nurse coordinator in UNMC’s Center for Reducing Health Disparities.
Hill invited Dr. Underwood to Omaha to be the keynote speaker at an annual “Celebration of Life” event.
“I’ve been reading her research for years as it applies to health disparities, African Americans and breast cancer,” Hill said. “I’m very excited that we were able to bring her to speak to UNMC and the Omaha community.”
Dr. Underwood started a unique program for nurses to assist them in talking to patients about early detection. Her research examines access for women in underserved populations to annual mammograms and follow-up treatment.
“Teaching nursing students about the health disparities that exist in disadvantaged and underserved populations is a key aspect of education,” said Virginia Tilden, D.N.Sc., dean of the UNMC College of Nursing. “We are delighted to have Dr. Underwood, a nationally recognized expert in reducing health disparities, visit the UNMC College of Nursing.”
Hill said she is an example that early detection can lead to survivorship. She is trying to spread that message through her work at UNMC and in the community.
She believes Dr. Underwood’s visit will inspire health professionals to think about their role in the care of underserved populations.
“Hopefully, people will understand the importance of reducing and eliminating health disparities and will become motivated to join our effort,” Hill said.