Sunshine Club

Dr. Hilary Siebens will talk about how residents can think and communicate with health care professionals at the Sunshine Club on Friday, April 5, in Clubhouse 3, Room 2, at 10 a.m.

Siebens’ talk is a follow-up on her talk last year that focused on communicating about one’s health care. She will review the value of an evidence-based, simple, four-part framework as a guide to thinking about one’s own health. She will review the importance of keeping personal essential health information organized in one place.

Siebens’ research has shown that often individuals have relevant information scattered across computers, cell phones, drawers, and rooms in their homes. It’s then not available during doctor visits or urgent health situations or for family members who may be helping. In addition, being prepared and organized helps communicate concerns more effectively in stressful health care settings. Ways to communicate with health care teams can include electronic portals and paper formats that include medical journals, health care folders, and self-made or purchased three-ringed binders.

Siebens has invited some LW residents who heard the talk last year to share their stories of what happened when their health information was better organized.

Siebens is a primary care geriatrician and physiatrist (rehabilitation physician). She cared for older adults with few active medical conditions, those with multiple enduring conditions, and those requiring palliative and hospice care. This work involved close teamwork with colleagues and enabled her to appreciate multiple issues confronting patients, care partners, families, and health care professionals.

To receive more information about the Sunshine Club, contact Anna Derby at 562301-5339.

Hilary Siebens