Year of Publication
2023
College
Arts and Sciences
Department/School/Program
Biology
Degree Name
Bachelor of Science
Faculty Advisor
Dr. Daniel Kirchner
Abstract
Healthcare disparities are perpetuated and upheld for patients with type 1 diabetes (T1D) in rural and underserved urban areas of Kentucky. By adopting systems-based thinking, we can identify areas of the healthcare system to change to eliminate these disparities. Namely, key leverage points of this system include distribution and utilization of resources, finances and the movement of money, and communication pathways. To address the disparities surrounding pediatric T1D in Kentucky, a state-wide medical event called Kentucky Diabetes Family Day (KDFD) was hosted. The focus of this event was to lessen the effects of these specific healthcare disparities by altering key leverage points in the medical system. The goal of KDFD was to connect families and kids experiencing a T1D diagnosis in rural and underserved areas of Kentucky with pediatric healthcare resources and education. This successful and cost-effective event provided these resources for free and created change in 43 people’s lives, while contributing to the fundamental change of the medical system serving people with T1D in Kentucky.
Recommended Citation
Speed, Sydney, "Creating Change in Pediatric Health Disparities: Utilizing SystemsBased Thinking to Overcome Disparities Affecting Pediatric Type 1 Diabetes in Kentucky" (2023). Lewis Honors College Thesis Collection. 5.
https://uknowledge.uky.edu/honors_theses/5
