Malnutrition and Food Insecurity: How to Identify, Screen and Intervene
Current AzAAP members may access the webinar for free by utilizing a discount code. Please contact Pedslms@azaap.org to receive the discount code.
Join us for an impactful webinar designed for pediatric providers to strengthen their ability to recognize and address food insecurity. This session will cover how to identify signs of malnutrition and undernutrition, emphasizing their effects on children’s health and development. Participants will learn to screen for food insecurity using the AAP’s Hunger Vital Sign™ and apply the Food Research and Action Center’s Toolkit for effective screening and intervention strategies. There will also be a dietician's insight of food insecurity and the resources available to combat it. By the end of this webinar, attendees will be equipped with practical tools and insight to support vulnerable families and enhance health outcomes for families facing food insecurity.
Learning Objectives:
At the conclusion of this activity, learners will be able to:
Jessica Divis, Dr. Samaddar, and Dr. Pianto have no relevant financial relationships to disclose. This event is made possible in part by an AAP educational grant supported by Abbott, a proud supporter of the AAP.
Kristi Samaddar, M.D., F.A.A.P graduated from Indiana University School of Medicine and completed her pediatric residency at the University of Michigan. She is a pediatrician at Phoenix Children’s in the division of Primary, Complex Care and Adolescent Medicine and an enthusiastic educator for medical students and residents. She serves as an associate program director for the pediatric residency program, where she has expertise in advocacy training and quality improvement. She leads the Graduate Medical Education Committee for Health Equity and Community Service and the advocacy track. She was elected as a reviewer for the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) Council on Quality Improvement and Patient Safety and serves as an active member of Arizona AAP’s consortium for Obesity and Food Insecurity. Her clinical interests include obesity prevention, mental health training for pediatricians, and strengths-based approaches in overcoming adversity. When not working, she enjoys reading, running, Peloton cycling, hiking and traveling. She is grateful for the support of her family including her husband, three children, and canine running partners.
Jessica Divis is a dedicated Training Manager at AM Nutrition Services with a passion for helping others achieve their health goals and fostering a positive relationship with food. She holds a Master of Science in Nutrition and Dietetics and is a Registered Dietitian and Certified Diabetes Care and Education Specialist. Jessica completed her dietetic internship at Marshall University, following her studies at Arizona State University. Inspired to become a dietitian after witnessing the impact of malnutrition while working overseas with children, Jessica is committed to making a difference in the lives of those she serves. In her free time, she enjoys hiking and exploring the great outdoors, and she has a particular fondness for delicious food, which reflects her passion for nutritious eating while enjoying what you eat. Jessica looks forward to continuing her work in the field of nutrition and education, empowering others on their health journeys.
Alyssa Pianto is a pediatric resident at Phoenix Children's Hospital and is applying to NICU fellowship. She graduated from Kansas City University College of Osteopathic Medicine. She has been a part of the advocacy track throughout residency with an emphasis in addressing food insecurity. When not working she enjoys being outdoors, hiking, and spending time with her family and friends.