Month: September 2021

Today on Beyond the Bleeds, we sit down with Kate Bazinsky and Joe Hoelscher for part two of ‘BD SUMHAC Advocating for Fair Mental Health and Substance Use Treatment Part II’ and dive deep into the complexities of advocating for fair mental health and substance use treatment for people with bleeding disorders. Together, we break down the obstacles families face in accessing equitable inpatient or residential care, explore how advocacy shapes state and national policy, and share vital resources that empower our community to fight for their rights.

Today on Beyond the Bleeds, we’re joined by Kate Bazinsky, chair of the Bleeding Disorder, Substance Use and Mental Health Access Coalition (BD SUMHAC), and Joe Hoelscher, a behavioral health specialist at the Hemophilia Outreach Center in Green Bay. Together, we shine a light on the painful and often unseen barriers faced by people with bleeding disorders when they seek inpatient mental health and substance use treatment. We discuss the origins of BD SUMHAC, the deep connections between chronic conditions, mental health, and substance use, and the urgent advocacy work happening to dismantle discrimination and secure equal access to care for the bleeding disorders community.

Today on Beyond the Bleeds, John and Heather welcome Sumedha Ghate, a genetic counselor at HOC in Green Bay, Wisconsin. Sumedha delves into the intricate world of genetic counseling, discussing the nuances of determining hereditary patterns in hemophilia and other bleeding disorders. The conversation helps demystify genetic testing and its role in diagnosing and managing bleeding disorders, aiming to empower individuals with knowledge about their health and family history.

Today on Beyond the Bleeds, Heather and John welcome Karin Koppen and Kailee Frederick from the Great Lakes Hemophilia Foundation to discuss their incredible work and programs serving the bleeding disorders community. Karin and Kailee share insights into the distinctive roles of local chapters in providing education, support, and advocacy while working closely with hemophilia treatment centers to ensure comprehensive patient care.