Join us for a compelling and informative webinar as we delve into the critical topic of heart disease and it’s impact on the Black and Marginalized Communities of Utah.

Black Americans have historically been left behind when it comes to heart health. Although prevention is key, access to knowledge, advocacy and understanding one’s family medical history has been both a barrier and privilege that many Black Americans have not been afforded. Increased access to resources has not alone been successful in overcoming health disparities. Even Damar Hamlin, the Buffalo Bill’s Safety, was unaware of a history of heart conditions in his family, increasing the likelihood of cardiac arrest. What helps? Acknowledging the intersectionality of the black experience and health inequities, working toward healing generational trauma, addressing barriers Black Americans face with access to health care. Making the connection is essential.

For questions about this event, please contact Rebecca Adams at rebecca@bpou.org.

Presenter

Jessica Jones, MD, MSPH

Jessica L. Jones, MD, MSPH is an Associate Professor with the Division of Public Health, serving as an instructor and advisor to graduate public health students. She actively advocates success for all, and promotes equity, diversity, and inclusion at the University of Utah. As a board-certified academic family medicine physician practicing with the University of Utah Health Care Community Clinics, she has a broad background in patient care, teaching, and research. Currently, as an urgent care provider, she is on the front lines of clinical public health. As an Associate Chair for the DFPM Office for Equity, Diversity, & Inclusion, she develops and implements programs and initiatives to improve the climate for students, faculty and staff.

Dr. Jones completed medical school at the UCLA School of Medicine and residency training at the University of Utah. She also completed a faculty development fellowship with the Department of Family and Preventive Medicine, which included completing a master’s in science in public health degree. This fellowship included a Master of Science in Public Health degree.

Outside of work, Dr. Jones loves being a wife and a mom. Her main outlet is Zumba (which she affectionately calls her “Zumba therapy”). She’s a cat person, whose favorite color is purple. Her favorite local getaway is to Eden Utah, but her favorite vacation spot is Hawaii