Pictured from left, Norman Haynes, Lincoln Health Foundation, Dr. Paul Kim, Grambling State University , Dr. Jamie Newman, Louisiana Tech University, Dr. Erica Spears, Louisiana Public Health Institute, Dr. Donna Williams, LSU Health New Orleans School of Public Health, Panel Moderator: Kirk St.Amant

Scientific research happens in the lab, often after field research is conducted in communities. The data  have a tremendous influence on the development of drugs and therapies. For a full day on June 2, 2023,  at Louisiana Tech University in Ruston, community advocates, providers and researchers  held in-depth discussions, shared best practices  and built relationships with a goal of improving health in Louisiana.

“Talking about the impact of new technologies on community health and specifically the role that a university can play in supporting the community is critical,” said panelist Dr. Jamie Newman, Louisiana Tech University.   “For example, because of our work during the pandemic, we were able to bring sequencing technology and wastewater-based epidemiology to Louisiana Tech and Grambling State University. We are poised to continue working with community partners to understand diseases like COVID-19 and cancers,” she said.

Communication and mutual understanding makes all the difference when researchers approach an individual for information or a sample like a nasal swab or blood work to inform their research.

Dr. Erica Spears of the Louisiana Public Health Initiative said it is crucial to establish and maintain relationships in order to collect that data.  She stressed the importance of being accountable and authentic by reporting back to research subjects on the status and findings of the work they were involved in.

Being mindful of community members’ time is also crucial.  “If we're asking people to show up Monday through Friday 9 to 5 when they have another job is that really being respectful of them?,” asked Donna Williams, LCRC associate director of population sciences and community outreach & engagement, who stressed the importance of reimbursing people for their time and taking into account their busy schedules.

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