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CITY OF PHILADELPHIA
DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC HEALTH 1101 Market Street - 9th Floor Philadelphia, PA 19107
FRANK FRANKLIN, PhD, JD, MPH, FCPP Interim Health Commissioner
P ALAK RAVAL- NELSON, PhD, MPH Deputy Health Commissioner
K A THLEEN A. BRADY, MD , MSCE Director /Medical Director Division of HIV Health
May 3, 204
Dear Esteemed Colleagues and Partners in Health,
Welcome to the inaugural SexMed: Philadelphia Conference on Sexual Wellness! As the Director and Medical Director of the Philadelphia Department of Public Health Division of HIV Health, I am thrilled to host this landmark event and to join forces with you, the dedicated healthcare professionals of Philadelphia, in advancing the frontiers of sexual health and wellness, particularly in the HIV and Mpox prevention
This conference is born out of a collective recognition of the urgent need to address sexual health proactively and innovatively. It is a response to our shared commitment to the well-being of our community, reflecting our city's spirit of resilience, collaboration, and progress
At SexMed: Philadelphia, we are not just sharing the latest scientific research and clinical best practices. We are building a community of change-makers united in our mission to transform sexual health care in Philadelphia. This event serves as a crucible for forging new partnerships, nurturing professional growth, and sparking innovative strategies that will lead to sustainable health improvements for the populations we serve.
Your participation and contributions are invaluable to the success of this conference and the ongoing journey toward enhanced sexual wellness. The knowledge exchanged and the relationships formed here will lay the groundwork for a new era of health care that is inclusive, evidence-based, and compassionately delivered.
I am particularly excited about the diverse range of sessions and the expertise of our speakers, which promise a rich and comprehensive exploration of the current landscape and future directions in sexual health. Your engagement in these discussions is key to unlocking the potential of our collective efforts to make a lasting impact on the health of our community
Together, we can achieve a future where sexual wellness is recognized as a fundamental aspect of health and well-being for all Philadelphians.
Thank you for your commitment to this important work and for being an integral part of the SexMed: Philadelphia Conference. I look forward to our collaboration's inspiring discussions and transformative initiatives.
Warm regards,
, MD, MSCE Director and Medical Director Division of HIV Health
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Welcome!
Welcome to the inaugural SexMed: Philadelphia Conference on Sexual Wellness!
I am thrilled that more than 400 dedicated healthcare professionals have gathered to advance our understanding and practices in sexual health. This event is a pivotal opportunity for learning, sharing, and networking within our community. We've curated diverse expert speakers and comprehensive workshops to enhance your professional skills and broaden your perspectives on Sexual Wellness, including HIV and Mpox prevention. Let's collaborate, innovate, and inspire each other to make a lasting impact in our city.
Thank you for choosing to be a part of this exciting journey with us. Your presence and participation are invaluable, and I am confident this conference will be a productive and enriching experience for all of us. I look forward to the exciting discussions and insights from our time together. -J
Javontae Lee Williams, MPH SexMed Conference Coordinator HIV Prevention Program Manager Division of HIV Health Philadelphia Department of Public Health
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Conference Planning Staff
Special thanks to our conference planning staff from the Health Federation and the Philadelphia Department of Public Health
Carolyn Smith Beown
Debra D’Alessandro Emily McNamara
Sigfried Aragona
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Brian Hernandez Ahmea Pacheco-Branch
Thank You SexMed Advising Committee!
Dr. Lenore Asbel
Kristine Arrieta
Dr. Kathleen A. Brady
Terry Clark
Melissa Hobkirk
Marguerite Horton
Danica Kuncio
Fatima Maiga
Tanajsia Mason
Alexandria Skula
Pablo Souble
Amber Tirmal
Anna Thomas-Ferraioli
Cherie Walker-Baban
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you to our Partners! 7
Thank
Hotel Maps
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Agenda at a Glance
FRIDAY, MAY 3RD, 2024
08:00 AM - 04:30 PM
7:30 AM General Registration, Pre-Assembly East
7:30 AM CE Registration, Pre-Assembly West
7:30 AM Volunteer Check-in, Level 4 Room: Maestro A
7:30 AM Exhibitors Village, Level 3 Overture Room
8:00 AM Opening Plenary
Advancing Together: A City's Pledge for Sexual Wellness and Syndemic Resilience Lobby Level, Ormandy Ballroom
9:00AMSessionGroupOne
Advancing Patient Care through HIV Prevention
Level Three, Room: Aria A
Understanding Congenital Syphilis: Significance and Impact
Level Three, Room: Aria B
Current Trends in Hepatitis Care
Level Three, Room: Concerto A
Exploring Behavioral Health in the Context of Hookup Culture
Level Three, Room: Concerto B
10:30AMSessionGroupTwo
Mpox Vaccination: Researching Findings Exploring Provider and Patient
Perspectives of Facilitators and Barriers
Level Three, Room: Aria A
Advancements in STI Care: Latest Developments in Testing, Treatment, and Patient Management
Level Three, Room Aria B
Centering People and Community in Hepatitis B and Hepatitis C Care
Level Three, Room: Concerto A
Race as a Critical Aspect of Sexual Health: Implications for Healthcare Teams
Level Three, Room: Concerto B
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Agenda at a Glance
FRIDAY, MAY 3RD, 2024
08:00 AM - 04:30 PM
11:50 AM Lunch Plenary
Uniting to Address Syndemics- Integrating Low-Barrier Sexual Wellness into Primary Care Lobby Level, Ormandy Ballroom
1:30PMSessionGroupThree
Empowering Young People: Effective PrEP/PEP Strategies for Adolescents and Young Adults
Level Three, Room Aria A
Patient Perspectives: Navigating Healthcare in the City of Brotherly Love & Sisterly Affection
Level Three, Room Aria B
Dangerous Intersection Ahead: Exploring Intimate Partner Violence and Sexual Health,
Level Three, Room Concerto B
3:10PMSessionGroupFour
HIV Care Continuum Re-visited: Strategies and Solutions
Level Three, Room Aria A
Mastering Mpox: Essential Guidance for Philadelphia Healthcare Providers
Level Three, Room Concerto A
Conversations on Sexual Wellness: Insights from the U=U and PrEP Era
Level Three, Room Concerto B
4:30pm UPenn/ EDIOS Presents:
Savor and Socialize: Doubletree Rooftop Mixer
(Pre-Registration Required)
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9:00 am - 10:15 am | Level 3
Advancing Patient Care through HIV Prevention
Elizabeth (Lizzy) Schmidt, CRNP
Room: Aria A
Participants will learn practical strategies to improve service delivery and communication in primary care settings by leveraging Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) and Post-Exposure Prophylaxis (PEP). These critical medications are essential tools in preventing HIV transmission. The session will cover methods to evaluate appropriate patient candidates, maintain patient engagement, offer continuous support, and overcome common challenges to maximize health outcomes.
Understanding Congenital Syphilis: Significance and Impact
Dr. Felicia Lewis
Room: Aria B
This session focuses on the critical importance and implications of congenital syphilis in public health. Participants will gain a deep understanding of the transmission mechanisms, risk factors, and preventative strategies essential for controlling this communicable condition. Through expert presentations and case studies, healthcare professionals will explore the significant impact of congenital syphilis on both maternal and child health, including its long-term consequences if left untreated.
SESSION Group One
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SESSION Group One
9:00 am - 10:15 am | Level 3
Current Trends in Hepatitis Care
Dr. Stacey Trookskin
Room: Concerto A
This session provides a comprehensive overview of the latest trends and developments in the care and management of hepatitis infection. Participants will explore recent advancements in diagnosis, treatment options, and public health strategies shaping the landscape of hepatitis care. Experts in the field will discuss introducing new antiviral therapies, improving patient management protocols, and the impact of national and global health policies on hepatitis outcomes.
The session will also address the challenges of managing different types of hepatitis, including hepatitis B and C, focusing on innovative approaches to increase treatment efficacy and patient adherence. Attendees will gain insights into best practices for integrating these advancements into clinical practice, ultimately improving patient outcomes and reducing the disease burden.
Exploring Behavioral Health in the Context of Hookup Culture
Noel Ramirez, DBH, MPH, MSW. LCSW, BCD
Room: Concerto B
This workshop delves into the intricate relationship between sexual health advancements and behavioral health within the context of Philadelphia's GBQ (gay, bi, and queer) community. Participants will acquire crucial insights and tools to navigate the complexities of hookup culture and its impact on behavioral health for GBQ men. The workshop will cover essential practices such as behavioral health screenings, relational approaches in clinical settings, and leveraging local resources.
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SESSION Group Two
10:30 am - 11:45 am | Level 3
Mpox Vaccination: Researching Findings Exploring Provider and Patient Perspectives of Facilitators
and Barriers
Florence Marie Momplaisir, MD, MSHP
Room: Aria A
This workshop presents research findings on the facilitators and barriers to Mpox vaccination from both provider and patient viewpoints. The session will explore strategies to enhance communication between providers and patients, address misconceptions, and leverage opportunities to improve vaccine uptake. Attendees will gain a deeper understanding of the dynamics affecting Mpox vaccination efforts and learn how to apply these insights to optimize health outcomes in their practice settings.
Advancements in STI Care: Latest Developments in Testing, Treatment, and Patient Management
Barbara Wilgus, MSN, CRNP
Room: Aria B
This session will explore the forefront of sexually transmitted infection (STI) management, highlighting the latest techniques and technologies in STI testing. Participants will learn about molecular diagnostics and point-of-care testing, which are critical for the accurate and rapid detection of infections. The session will discuss and share recommendations on patient counseling to improve STI prevention and management. Attendees will acquire effective communication strategies and discover innovative tools to engage patients in discussions about sexual health, risk reduction, and adherence to treatment plans.
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10:30 am - 11:45 am | Level 3
10:30 am - 11:45 am | Level 3
Centering People and Community in Hepatitis B and Hepatitis C Care
Room: Concerto A
Moderator: Danica Kuncio
Panelist: Dr. Su Wang
This engaging panel discussion brings together seasoned healthcare providers, public health managers, and patient navigators to share their expert insights on managing and treating hepatitis. Participants will hear from diverse specialists who will discuss their firsthand experiences and successful strategies from various healthcare environments.
Panelist: Leo Trillow
The panel will cover various topics, including the latest diagnostic techniques, antiviral treatments, and personalized care approaches. Attendees will also gain valuable insights into effective patient education, engagement, and support strategies that improve adherence and outcomes. This session offers a unique opportunity to learn practical solutions and tips for overcoming challenges in hepatitis care, providing valuable knowledge for both experienced professionals and those new to the field.
Race as a Critical Aspect of Sexual Health: Implications for Healthcare Teams
Dr. Tracie Gilbert
Room: Concerto B
An enlightening session on the critical role of race in sexual health-- This presentation is designed for healthcare professionals serving diverse communities. It delves into how racialization affects sexual health outcomes, particularly within African American populations. Learn about the intersections of race and sexuality and the historical impacts of sexual racism, and gain practical strategies for enhancing care delivery. This workshop promises to equip you with the insights and tools to address racial biases effectively and foster equitable sexual health practices. Don't miss this opportunity to improve your professional practice and patient care.
SESSION 2
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SESSION Group Two
Sexual Wellness into Primary Care
11:50
am
| Ormandy Ballroom
Join this engaging panel discussion featuring experts and practitioners from the primary care field as they share invaluable insights and experiences related to incorporating sexual wellness using the low threshold model. Participants will interact with panelists who have implemented this approach in various settings. The discussion will cover practical strategies, challenges encountered, and successes in integrating sexual wellness into primary care environments.
This session offers a unique opportunity to learn from real-world examples, gain actionable insights, and participate in an ongoing dialogue to enhance sexual health care in primary care settings. This panel is ideal for healthcare providers, administrators, and advocates seeking to enrich their approach to sexual wellness in primary care. Join us to contribute to this critical conversation and bolster your care
Sebrina Tate, MSW, President/CEO of Bebashi Transition to Hope
Moderator: Javontae Lee Williams, MPH
Vince Du, Community Health Engagement Manager of Mazzoni Center
Aviva Joffe, MSW, Program Director, Immunodeficiency Center at Einstein Healthcare Network
Kevin Moore, PsyD Executive Director, Courage Medicine Health Center
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SESSION Group Three
1:45 PM - 3:00 PM | Level 3
Empowering Young People: Effective PrEP/PEP Strategies for Adolescents and Young Adults
Dr. Roberta Laguerre
Room: Aria A
TThis workshop will equip healthcare professionals with essential knowledge and skills for using Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) and Post-Exposure Prophylaxis (PEP) in adolescents and young adults. Participants will explore the special considerations for implementing, adhering to, and monitoring PrEP/PEP in this age group. The session will include interactive discussions, case studies, and guidance on best practices to help tailor interventions to adolescents' and young adults' unique needs. Key topics will cover handling confidentiality issues, engaging diverse patient groups, and addressing barriers to accessing treatment. This workshop aims to provide attendees with actionable insights to enhance their practice in this critical area of healthcare.
Patient Perspectives: Navigating Healthcare in the City of Brotherly Love & Sisterly Affection
Moderator: Kelli Dunham
Room: Aria B
Join us for an enlightening workshop featuring a diverse panel of patients sharing their firsthand experiences with Philadelphia’s healthcare system. This session will provide a platform for candid discussions and personal narratives, offering attendees insights into the challenges, achievements, and disparities patients face in accessing and receiving care in the City of Brotherly Love and Sisterly Affection.
Panelists will discuss topics such as navigating insurance complexities and understanding cultural nuances within the healthcare setting. This workshop presents a crucial opportunity for healthcare professionals and clinicians to listen, learn, and engage directly with patients, enhancing their ability to improve the quality of patient care and the structure of healthcare settings.
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SESSION Group Three
1:45 PM - 3:00 PM | Level 3
“Dangerous
Intersection Ahead”: Exploring Intimate Partner Violence and Sexual Health
Marcy Witherspoon, MSW, LSW
Room: Concerto b
This session delves into the complex relationship between intimate partner violence (IPV) and sexual health, highlighting the critical intersections that can impact individuals in profound ways. Participants will gain a deeper understanding of how IPV influences sexual health outcomes and the implications for healthcare practice.
Through expert-led discussions, attendees will explore the prevalence and types of IPV, its direct and indirect effects on sexual health, and the challenges faced by survivors seeking care. The session will also cover strategies for screening and intervention in clinical settings, emphasizing the importance of a sensitive and informed approach to patient care.
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SESSION Group Four
3:10 PM - 4:30 PM | Level 3
HIV Care Continuum Re-visited: Strategies and Solutions
Anna Thomas-Ferraioli, MPH
Room: Aria A
This session revisits the HIV Care Continuum, exploring updated strategies and innovative solutions for improving patient outcomes across all stages of HIV care. Attendees will delve into the latest advancements in diagnosis, treatment initiation, retention in care, and viral suppression. Through expert-led presentations and collaborative discussions, participants will examine practical approaches to overcoming common barriers in care continuity. This workshop is designed to equip healthcare professionals with the tools they need to enhance the quality of care for individuals living with HIV, optimizing patient health and well-being at each of step of the continuum. Staffers from the PDPH Division of HIV Health will demonstrate the new Philadelphia “Resource Finder” tool for people living with HIV.
Mastering Mpox: Essential Guidance for Philadelphia Healthcare Providers
Dr. Shara Epstein
Room: Concerto A
Join us for a detailed workshop to equip clinicians and healthcare professionals with a thorough understanding of Mpox, a rare but significant viral disease. This session will cover critical aspects of Mpox, including its epidemiology, clinical symptoms, diagnostic procedures, treatment options, and preventive measures.
Participants will engage in interactive discussions, analyze case studies, and examine real-world scenarios to deepen their knowledge and prepare for practical application in clinical settings. The workshop aims to empower healthcare providers with the necessary skills and resources to manage and respond effectively to cases of Mpox, enhancing their capability to tackle this emerging infectious disease challenge.
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SESSION Group Four
3:10 PM - 4:30 PM | Level 3
Conversations on Sexual Wellness: Insights from the U=U and PrEP Era
Dena Solomon, M.Ed
Room: Concerto B
This transformative presentation is designed to improve healthcare professionals' approach to patient-centered care by incorporating an essential but often overlooked aspect: sexual wellness. This session will thoroughly explore key learning objectives, equipping attendees with insights and actionable strategies to integrate sexuality discussions effectively into their clinical practice.
The presentation will critically examine and challenge traditional methods of discussing sexual wellness and taking sexual histories. Attendees will be encouraged to reconceptualize these practices to be more inclusive, affirming, and nonstigmatizing. This approach aims to foster a safe environment where patients feel comfortable openly discussing their sexual health concerns.
Participants will also learn to confront challenges, such as communication barriers and cultural sensitivities when integrating sexual wellness into patient care conversations. Equipped with practical tools, attendees will be better prepared to navigate these challenges and provide compassionate, comprehensive care.
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See You Next Year?
Thank you for participating in the SexMed: Philadelphia Conference on Sexual Wellness. Your insights and feedback are invaluable to us! Please take a moment to complete the conference evaluation form provided in your email used for registration. Your input will help us enhance future events and strengthen our advocacy for this event's return. By sharing your thoughts, you contribute directly to the continued success and relevance of this important gathering. Let's keep the conversation on sexual wellness thriving in Philadelphia!
Thank You!
Harlan Shaw
Assistant Conference Planner
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