Conclusion



= ﻿ Final Thoughts=

Community Nutrition 572 has transformed my focus from clinical care to community health. In fact, I don't view the two as distinct. Clinicians typically address the needs of individuals, whereas public health professionals focus on improving health at a population level; however, the approaches are synergistic and must be collaborative to improve our health system (1). During my work as a bariatric physician, I have evolved toward emphasizing a longitudinal lifestyle approach for wellness instead of only addressing weight loss. Now I am turning to incorporating a population approach.

Obesity is at epidemic levels in all ages and is one of the most urgent public health issues that we face. Obesity interventions simply can't be effective unless population interventions are developed that focus on prevention and early intervention. A collaborative, comprehensive approach that involves policy and also includes the pervasive and deleterious environmental factors will be necessary to produce change (2).

I have had a strong desire to positively affect community health, but didn't know how to go about doing it. This course, which included developing a community lifestyle intervention, has been exhilarating and given me the confidence that I can make a difference. My professor, Dr. Patsy Beffa-Negrini, never stopped believing in me, even when I was discouraged. I am learning how to be a catalyst for change and (hopefully) ultimately a community leader and proponent for wellness at all ages.

1. Fielding JE, Teutsch SM. Integrating clinical care and community health. //JAMA.// 2009;302(3):317-319.

2. MA, Holben DH. Community Nutrition in Action; An Entrepreneurial Approach, 5th edition. Belmont, CA: Wadsworth; 2010.