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Community Outreach

Jun 12
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Inaugural Summer S.T.E.M. and Health Camp: A Gateway to Future Health Professionals

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Inaugural Summer S.T.E.M. and Health Camp: A Gateway to Future Health Professionals

Recently,  I had the distinct honor of participating in the Inaugural Summer S.T.E.M. and Health Camp sponsored by the Webb Family Foundation, under the visionary leadership of Dr. Antonio Webb. This incredible event brought together middle and high school students to immerse them in the diverse and dynamic world of healthcare. The camp, held at the picturesque Estancia Del Norte Hotel in San Antonio, Texas, offered the perfect setting for an intellectually stimulating and inspiring experience.

As a cardiologist with a focus on sports cardiology, I was thrilled to join a distinguished roster of healthcare professionals, including spine surgeons, pharmacists, physical therapists, psychiatrists, and many others. Our collective goal was to provide students with an unparalleled exposure to various medical fields, sparking their interest and igniting their passion for a future in healthcare.

My role was particularly unique, as I had the opportunity to delve into the fascinating field of cardiology. I provided an overview of what cardiologists do, with a special emphasis on sports cardiology—my area of expertise. To make the experience more interactive and engaging, I conducted a live demonstration of echocardiography, commonly known as a heart ultrasound. This hands-on session allowed students to observe cardiac anatomy in real-time, offering them a glimpse into the intricate workings of the human heart.

One of the highlights of my participation was introducing the students to one of my signature programs, Everyone Can Assist (E.C.A.). This initiative is designed to teach individuals the fundamentals of emergency response in cases of sudden cardiac arrest. E.C.A. simplifies the critical components of emergency response into three key steps:

1. Emergency Response Activation (E): Recognizing the signs of sudden cardiac arrest and activating the emergency response system immediately.
2. Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) (C): Performing effective chest compressions to maintain circulation and oxygenation until professional help arrives.
3. Automated External Defibrillator (AED) (A): Using an AED to deliver a potentially life-saving shock to restore normal heart rhythm.

By introducing E.C.A. to these young minds, we provided them with essential life-saving skills and reinforced the idea that anyone, regardless of age, can make a significant impact in an emergency situation.

The camp was more than just an educational event; it was a powerful reminder of the importance of nurturing the next generation of healthcare professionals. The students’ enthusiasm, curiosity, and eagerness to learn were truly inspiring. They left the camp with a newfound appreciation for the field of medicine and a clear understanding that with dedication and hard work, they too can achieve their goals in STEM.

I am deeply grateful to Dr. Antonio Webb and the Webb Family Foundation for organizing such a transformative event. It was a privilege to be part of an initiative that not only educates but also empowers young people to pursue their dreams in healthcare. The Inaugural Summer S.T.E.M. and Health Camp was a resounding success, and I look forward to seeing the incredible achievements of these future healthcare leaders.

Mar 12
Love0

Go Red: Battling Heart Disease in Women One Step at a Time

By Blogs, Community Outreach

Go Red: Battling Heart Disease in Women One Step at a Time

In the heart of San Antonio, Texas, a significant event unfolded, marking a milestone in the journey towards better cardiovascular health for women. The Macedonia Missionary Baptist Church (MBC), under the spiritual leadership of Rev. Dr. Jerry W. Dailey, hosted the Go Red Event, an initiative focused on shedding light on the critical disparities in heart disease and women’s health. With a ministry foundation built on intentional love and a commitment to discipleship, MBC provided the perfect backdrop for this vital conversation.

The event, aptly titled “Having Babies, Health, and Hormones,” took center stage, addressing the black maternal fetal health crisis and the cardiovascular risks tied to hormonal changes in women. Dr. Travis Batts, a prominent figure in the health community, played a pivotal role in spearheading the discussions and activities throughout the day. His expertise, combined with the collective efforts of various partners, underscored the community’s dedication to tackling these issues head-on.

The collaborative spirit of the event was evident in the participation of the MBC Health Care Ministry, MBC Social Justice Ministry, Dr. Keisha Loftin of Lumina Wellness & Aesthetics Center, members of the San Antonio Alumni Chapter of Kappa Alpha Psi, and the Theta Eta chapter of Chi Eta Phi Sorority, who co-sponsored the event. This wide-ranging support highlighted the communal approach to health advocacy and education.

One of the most memorable moments of the day was the exercise session led by Dr. Batts. Shifting gears from his usual role, he energized the crowd with a heart-pumping Zumba class, demonstrating the importance of physical activity in maintaining heart health. This engaging session not only brought smiles and laughter but also emphasized the practical steps individuals can take towards a healthier lifestyle.

The success of the Go Red Event at Macedonia Missionary Baptist Church was palpable, with attendees leaving empowered and informed about the critical health issues facing women today. The discussions initiated and the partnerships forged set the stage for ongoing efforts to address health disparities and promote well-being within the community.

As we reflect on the achievements of this event, it’s clear that the journey towards better health is a collective one, requiring the support, dedication, and passion of individuals and organizations alike. The Go Red Event is just the beginning, with hopes of expanding its reach and impact in the years to come. Through education, advocacy, and actionable initiatives, we can continue to make strides in improving women’s cardiovascular health and overall well-being.

In a world where health disparities continue to pose significant challenges, events like the Go Red at MBC stand as beacons of hope and action. They remind us of the power of community, the importance of informed discussion, and the undeniable impact of taking intentional steps towards a healthier future for all women.

Aug 28
Love0

Haircuts & Heartbeats: Build Health in the Barbershop

By Blogs, Community Outreach

Haircuts & Heartbeats: Build Health in the Barbershop

Dr. Travis Batts was a dynamic presence at the Haircuts & Heartbeats Event, an integral part of House of Styles Barbershop’s 2023 Customer Appreciation Day. Collaborating with distinguished guests like Macedonia Mission Baptist Church Health Care Ministry, The Mission Kitchen, and the Batts Media Group, Dr. Batts lent his expertise as a cardiologist to create a truly impactful event.

At the heart of the event was the essence of customer appreciation, a sentiment that resonated throughout the day. Attendees were treated to an array of offerings, including complimentary back-to-school kits, delectable food, engaging games, and valuable health screenings. Dr. Batts played a pivotal role in aligning these offerings with a critical health message.

Dr. Batts shed light on the importance of emergency response, cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), and the effective use of automated external defibrillators (AEDs). Through his signature program, “Everyone Can Assist” (E.C.A.), he empowered attendees with the knowledge and skills to make a life-saving impact during emergencies.

The inspiration for this event stemmed from the groundbreaking Barbershop Study published in the New England Journal of Medicine in 2018. This pivotal study highlighted the significant reduction in blood pressure among black male barbershop patrons through health promotion efforts by barbers, coupled with medication management by specialty-trained pharmacists.

Dr. Travis Batts’ participation in the Haircuts & Heartbeats Event added a layer of expertise and purpose. His insights into emergency response, coupled with the collaborative efforts of all participants, exemplified the power of community and health consciousness. The Batts Media Group’s coverage captured these meaningful moments, immortalizing an event that not only appreciated customers but also demonstrated the potential of partnerships in promoting health and well-being.