Honors Think Tank to Present Projects Tueday May 8th from 6:00-8:00 pm at the University or Utah

PRLog (Press Release) - May 7, 2012 - This inter-disciplinary think tank explored the American Indian medical patient experience through a multi-perspective lens. It was a journey through the issues and complexity involved in providing a patient experience within a health care setting. During this hands-on research workshop, students from a variety of disciplines engaged in lectures, activities, exercises and projects that are grounded in trans-disciplinary thinking. This was accomplished within a “design thinking” framework. This approach focused on generating innovation through observation, reflection creativity, integration and implementation. It helped bridge between the rational, quantitative, emotional, qualitative, and helped imagine and build a patient centered health-care future. Students explored the different perspectives of the American Indian health care delivery system through lectures by spiritual leaders, tribal members, hospital administrators,
community organizations, physicians, nurses, patients, and family members. In addition, the class took several trips to area reservations and met with health professionals and tribal leaders. This aided the students in understanding the kaleidoscope of issues that are involved in providing high quality health care for tribal members.
Using these experiences and insights as background material, students developed innovative concepts that address particular issues facing the community. They were teamed with mentors from a variety of disciplines and community organizations to help them move from conceptual ideas into implementable solutions. This ensured they considered constraints such as cost, implementation and operational issues. Then students refined their concepts into a 15 minute final presentation. Through the idea of a translation lab experience, students gained an understanding of the complexity of delivering health care and how to innovate within the boundaries of an established system. The result of this process produced innovative ideas and concepts that addressed very broad themes such as: developing a framework for the University and tribal collaboration, a health mentor program to help them navigate the complex system, a model for youth entrepreneurship, a transportation system and a diabetes health kit. The Honors Think Tank students invite you to join them in their final presentations and celebrate the year long innovative efforts to improve the American Indian patient experience.

The event will occur Tuesday May 8, 2012 from 6:00-8:00 pm in the Gould Auditorium in the Marriott Library (first floor) at the University of Utah. All are interested persons are cordially invited to attend.