One of my favorite things about my work is finding fellow change agents, particularly in unlikely places. A few years ago, I was on my way to a meeting with a pediatric gastrointestinal subspecialist to talk about new ways of caring for children with non-organic failure to thrive; essentially, a population of kids who do not have a specific medical condition to explain their difficulty growing in height or weight. This condition is often diagnosed during the first few years o

This November, Genesis Health Consulting is focusing on health equity. What it is. Why it matters. And what we can do to improve it. We chose this topic because it is a critical issue facing American children today that ultimately impacts all of us. Disparities in the health and well-being of children are growing, fed by the unchecked inequities in social and environmental determinants of health. The experience of poverty, racism, violence, environmental toxins, isolation, an

Midterm elections in the United States are in TWENTY days, on November 6, 2018. Are you ready to use your vote to help improve the health of kids in your community? This election cycle, you’ll be able to shape policies and agendas at the local, state and federal levels. In 2018, Americans will vote to elect: All 435 seats in the U.S. House of Representatives; One-third of all U.S. senators; Thirty-six state governors and three U.S. territory governors; Many state legislature

I remember Hope’s blonde curls, and the mix of awe and fear that still showed in her parents’ eyes when they described her surgeries to treat her hypoplastic left heart. Mira, with her sweet smile and playful brothers, visited a year later. Mira is short for Mira Cale, a reminder of how hard so many fought to help her overcome her multiple physical challenges and live a healthy and full life. I kept the drawing Jacob made me, showing me how his Tourette’s calmed when he tappe

Our January focus on businesses trends that impact child and family health continues, with another employee benefit that can be good for business and good for families. Imagine a family of four, two parents who work full time, and two kids who are not yet school age. Their morning begins early so both parents can get ready for work and get the kids ready for daycare drop off. Lunches are packed, bags are gathered, coats and shoes are dug out of closets. OH WAIT! We forgot t

This January, we’re taking inspiration from businesses across the country that are bringing a new perspective to how we think about health and well-being. These companies and industries are challenging conventional wisdom about the role of business, competition for talent and sales, and what makes a smart investment (hint: good business can be good for child health). Each blog, we’ll share an exciting change or trend in business and highlight the impact on child and family h

Election day is 13 days away! As you consider candidates, explore their stances on children's issues. KIDS CANNOT VOTE. We have to be th