Aligning Science, Practice and Policy to Advance Health Equity

This September 24, 2019 Science Matters webinar, co-sponsored by the Bezos Family Foundation, featured a report from the National Academies of Sciences, Enginerring, and Medicine (NASEM): Communities in Action: Pathways to Health Equity. Munro Richardson, Ph.D. of Read Charlotte moderated the conversation with Elizabeth Davis, Ph.D., of University of Minnesota; Amy Geller of NASEM; and Iheoma U. Iruka, Ph.D., of the Center for Early Education Research and Evaluation and HighScope Educational Research Foundation. 

The panelists explored the growing body of neuroscience highlighting the impact of children’s early experiences on their developing brain and body. They also discussed how various communities and programs are applying that science to address the social determinants of health. The presentations underscored the importance of early intervention, tailored support for caregivers, systemic and structural factors, the interconnected nature of health disparities and the bundling of services.