Health IT in the Latino Community–From Concept to Practice

With this workshop, attendees will understand the perspective of how the Latino Community in general is moving from the theoretical “promise” of health IT adoption in underserved communities to actual adoption and putting into “practice” the systems and tools needed to achieve healthier communities.

With 50 million residents, comprised of over 15% of the population, and expected to reach 30% by 2050, Hispanics are key to our nation’s future economic vitality. This important demographic segment must be engaged and benefiting from the promise of Health IT. At this workshop, participants will learn how Health IT improves the health of the Latino community. The program will discuss unique problems and strengths of the Latino community as they relate to health care, leveraging technology for success, and new technology initiatives in the Latino community. Health IT has long promised improvements in minority communities, however, it is not until recently that these theories have begun to produce benefits. This workshop will highlight the important strides that have been achieved in this mission.

• Understand the health and technology issues facing the Latino community and how they affect society at large. From health disparities including diabetes, obesity and hypertension to cultural competence and internet penetration, the Hispanic community represents a unique but important challenge which will be addressed.
• Learn how social media, mobile health and other advances can have a direct impact on creating healthier Latino communities that can overcome chronic conditions in the community through better information and engagement.
• Engage in discussions surrounding how the public and private sectors must interact to have a positive impact on the diverse Latino population. A combined public, private and non-profit partnership is essential to technology adoption and community engagement which are vital to reducing disparities.