During this challenging time of COVID-19, people in the U.S. and around the globe are searching for access to credible information and the ability to connect with others, to discuss the impact of the pandemic. This is especially important for those who may have underlying conditions that place them at a higher risk for coronavirus.
Recognizing the urgency of the situation, including the growing gap between available resources and unmet needs, a new entirely virtual platform has launched – which convenes advocacy groups, patients, caregivers and others to synchronize efforts, facilitate resources and provide an opportunity for increased connection and collaboration.
It's called the COVID Advocacy Exchange and is a unique and innovative way to share much-needed health information. There are live, interactive sessions where people can ask questions and share concerns. Since its inception in May 2020, the virtual platform has been receiving high praise for insight, authenticity and the warm reception offered to all, as well as the free access to information 24/7 through on-demand content, session resource documents and virtual exhibit booths
62 global patient advocacy organizations co-created the platform, drawing tens of thousands of visits to the platform from more than 80 countries. Some of the organizations participating include advocate groups for oncology, cardiovascular disease, and many more. For example, the Fatty Liver Disease Foundation has been one of the most engaged advocacy groups. 100 million Americans have nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and it can double your risk of dying from COVID. In addition, if you develop nonalcoholic fatty liver disease or NASH/cirrhosis your risk of dying goes up to about 10 times. About 5 million Americans have NASH/cirrhosis and don’t know it.
During the sessions, experts from around the world, dedicated to helping with many diseases, convene to discuss challenges encountered by patients and advocate organizations, what resources are most needed and innovative ways to collaborate to improve healthcare in light of COVID-19 and beyond. There is also time allotted for questions and answers, as well as interaction among patients and advocacy organizations.
In this interview, Dave Fuehrer, two-time cancer survivor and chief executive officer of GRYT Health, and Wayne Eskridge, founder of the Fatty Liver Foundation, (one of the participating organizations), discuss this groundbreaking platform and explain how people everywhere can take advantage of the unique program. They will discuss the biggest challenges patient advocacy groups and patients are facing now, including the specific concerns of those with liver disease, and how the COVID Advocacy Exchange is helping to overcome them. They will also announce the upcoming live sessions that will be available in coming months.
Interview is courtesy: Fatty Liver Foundation & GRYT Health
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