President’s Perspective

by Kelly Kreisler, MD, MPH, FAAP

It’s been a rough winter, and I’m not just referring to the subzero temperatures and above-average snowfall. I think I’ve had almost every virus that has gone through the clinic this year—no doubt my immune system is reacting to stress from overindulging in the news.  

The news has been hard to watch as a long-time advocate for immigrant and refugee families. Listening to the stories of their journeys to safety has always filled me with gratitude.  I’m grateful to provide a safe and welcoming environment for people who have gone through such intense trauma. It serves as a reminder of how fortunate I am.  My patients and their families are also watching the news, and as a consequence, children are afraid to go to school, parents are afraid to come to the clinic, and families are afraid to use the services to which they are legally entitled.

I am leaning on my colleagues during these difficult times.  I was a Council on Immigrant Children and Family Health member back when we were just a SIG (Special Interest Group).  The wisdom and compassion of the council leaders and AAP staff serve as a beacon of hope to me during times of stress and uncertainty.  I encourage you to join the council if you are looking for up-to-date information and resources or just support from like-minded pediatricians and child advocates.

The chapter has been getting questions about this and many other topics in the news lately, such as caring for transgender youth.  Many of us are worried about our most vulnerable patients in light of rapidly changing laws and executive actions.   The chapter and the AAP will continue to advocate for all children and the pediatricians who care for them.  If you feel discouraged, attend the Spring PIP and the Wellness Retreat.  I promise you will find another pediatrician who shares your passion for supporting children and families.  In the meantime, turn off the news and call a friend.   I look forward to seeing you in April.

Watch Dr. Gretchen J.Homan speak on Pediatrician in Action Awards

Executive Director Update

by Denise Cyzman

Spring into Learning

As the days grow longer and the first signs of spring emerge – well, soon, I hope – there’s much to look forward to. This season brings fresh energy and new beginnings. It is a great time to invest in yourself and in each other, and we are here to help.  

KAAP is offering several continuing education events this spring.  These are free or at a low cost and offer CME credits.  Whether you want to deepen your clinical expertise, stay updated on the latest research, or refine essential skills like communication and leadership, we have something for you.

In addition to our Progress in Pediatrics Spring 2025 conference, we are:

• Co-sponsoring a Wellness Retreat with the KSKidsMAP program.
• Offering scholarships for residents and medical students to attend the KDHE Immunization conference.
• Hosting a three-session webinar training on writing op-eds, editorials, and blogs to reflect science-based vaccine information.
• Continuing an ECHO series and offering a one-day refresher training course for the CARE Program.
• Promoting KANDID (KSKidsMAP for Autism, Neurodevelopmental Disorders, and Intellectual Disabilities) training.  
• And more….

Please take advantage of our upcoming training, webinars, and self-paced courses tailored to the evolving needs of pediatric care. Stay connected, stay inspired, and let’s grow together this spring!Check out a complete list of events at the end of this newsletter. If you have ideas for continuing education events you would like KAAP to consider, contact us at info@kansasaap.org. We welcome your feedback.

Welcome to the KAAP Family

Andrea D’Mello, MD, FAAP

Clinical Assistant Professor, Allergy and Clinical Immunology
Associate Program Director , Allergy and Clinical Immunology
Kansas University Medical Center, Kansas City, KS

“Throughout my career, I have focused on the diagnosis and management of a diverse range of allergic and immunologic disorders in pediatric and adult patients. My clinical approach is characterized by a patient-centered mindset, utilizing the latest advancements in diagnostic techniques and therapeutic interventions to optimize outcomes.”  Read more about Dr. D’Mello here.

Jason Lynn Kastner, MD, FAAP

Pediatrician
Pediatric Associates, Manhattan, KS

Dr. Kastner received his undergraduate degree from Kansas State and his Doctor of Medicine from the University of Kansas. From there, he and his wife moved to Nashville where he completed his residency in Pediatrics at Vanderbilt Children’s Hospital and served as Chief Resident. After more than two decades as a community pediatrician just outside of Nashville, Dr. Kastner and his wife felt the call back to their roots in Manhattan. He’s glad to be a part of the practice he grew up in, which inspired him to become a pediatrician. Read more about Dr. Kastner here.

Supporting Families and Children in Uncertain Times

In times of uncertainty, families look to us as trusted pediatricians for guidance and reassurance. Many in our communities face heightened concerns following recent policy changes that could impact access to healthcare and other essential services. On January 20th, the Acting Secretary of the Department of Homeland Security issued a directive rescinding prior federal guidance restricting immigration enforcement activities at healthcare facilities, schools, places of worship, and other social services locations. The new policy allows enforcement officers broader discretion, which has led to increased fear and anxiety among immigrant families. 

On February 6^th, U.S. Senator  Blumenthal and U.S. Representative  Espaillat (D-NY) introduced the Protecting Sensitive Locations Act (S.455/H.R.1061) to codify protections for immigrants seeking essential services at hospitals, schools, and courthouses. The legislation would prevent immigration enforcement officers from acting at sensitive locations.

As pediatricians, we know that stress and uncertainty can take a toll on children’s health, leading to chronic stress, missed school, and avoidance of medical care. Concerns about enforcement in clinical settings may also cause some families to delay or forgo necessary healthcare visits.

To help support our patients and their families, the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) Council on Immigrant Child and Family Health (COICFH) has compiled several practical resources:

• AAP President Dr. Sue Kressly’s statement on recent federal immigration actions
• “Know Your Rights” red cards in multiple languages, which can be made available at check-in desks or shared individually
• Guidance for Hospitals and Health Centers from the National Immigration Law Center, addressing best practices in formerly protected areas
• Step-by-Step Family Preparedness Plan to assist families in emergency planning
• AAP’s practical guide to welcoming and supporting immigrant families in healthcare settings
• The Supporting Immigrant Families Tip Sheet, found on the AAP Immigrant Child Health page

For more information, COICFH can be reached at ImmigrantHealth@aap.org and pediatricians interested in joining the council can visit the COICFH membership page. Many local AAP Chapters also have initiatives focused on immigrant child health, with additional resources available through Chapter websites.

If you encounter situations where immigrant families are affected by recent changes, please don’t hesitate to reach out. The National Immigrant Legal Responders Alliance (NILRA) also collects reports for tracking purposes, and submissions can be made anonymously or with contact information for follow-up.

Thank you for being so dedicated to the health and well-being of all children in our communities. Our role as pediatricians is more crucial than ever to ensure that every child feels safe and supported and can access the care they need.

Thank you to the American Academy of Pediatrics, California. This article was adapted from an email they sent to their members on 2/14/25.

Save the Date

Kansas Immunization Conference 2025

May 20 – 22
Wichita Marriott
9100 E Corporate Hills Dr
Wichita, KS 67207

The Kansas Department of Health and Environment is preparing for the annual Kansas Immunization Conference this May. A save-the-date has been issued, with registration details to follow. For more information, visit: www.wichita.edu/kip

KAAP is excited to support this important event and encourages our members to attend. To further promote immunization education, we are offering registration and travel scholarships for residents and medical students. Interested? Email Michelle Horst soon—scholarship funding is limited!

Progress in Pediatrics and Wellness Event

KAAP and KSKidsMAP are proud to offer Finding Steady Ground in Uncertain Times: A Wellness Retreat, immediately following the Progress in Pediatrics Conference. Kathy Stepien, MD, of the Institute for Physician Wellness will provide practical tools and strategies to help navigate the challenges of pediatric care today. Take this opportunity to focus on your wellbeing in a casual, community setting with your peers.

Attendees staying over Friday night will receive free hotel accommodation. Don’t miss this opportunity to prioritize your well-being as a healthcare provider.

Progress in Pediatrics has an excellent agenda prepared for pediatricians and pediatric professionals, focusing on timely and pressing issues:

• Plenary Session: Treating Mental Health Disorders – 301
• How to address vaccine hesitancy with patients and families
• Career development and pathways
• Diagnosing tick-borne illnesses
• Hot topics in pediatrics

This conference is designed to connect you with your colleagues across the state, share resources, and work together to find opportunities and strengths now and in the future.

Register today, and become part of a transformative conversation that will uplift and inspire you.

Thank You to Our Current Sponsors! We always appreciate the support of businesses passionate about children’s health equity in Kansas. Interested in becoming a sponsor or exhibitor? Find out more info here.

Thursday Night SOcial

Laughter is the Best Medicine

With Cole Fletcher

The KAAP Comedy Club is open for one night only! Enjoy an evening of fun with colleagues before Progress in Pediatrics kicks off at the Hotel Topeka – City Center’s Water’s Edge Lounge on Thursday, April 3^rd, 2025 starting at  5:30pm brought to you by Children’s Mercy Hospital.

Network with colleagues and speakers for Friday’s conference and enjoy the comedic stylings of Cole Fletcher, complete with an exclusive meet-and-greet with Cole and our esteemed speakers following the conclusion of the performance. Light hors d’oeurves will be provided. Save your seat here!

Need to Stay Overnight?

Book Your Hotel

at Hotel Topeka – City Center

Use the code KCAAP for our special Progress in Pediatrics rate valid through March 4^th, 2025. See the step-by-step guide below on how to get your rate.

Reminder: those who stay Friday through Saturday to attend KSKidsMap’s Finding Steady Ground in Uncertain Times: A Wellness Retreat will receive one night (Thursday) of complimentary hotel accommodations from KAAP.

1. Visit https://www.hoteltopekaatcitycenter.com/ and select your check-in and check-out dates. Click ‘View Rates’ once selected.
2. Click the drop down ‘Add Code’ and select ‘Group Attendee’
3. Type KCAAP to unlock discounted room rates and click ‘ADD’
4. Click ‘Select & Go to Next Step’ to complete your booking!

Questions on Progress in Pediatrics? Contact Marisa Guerrero at marisa.guerrero@kansasaap.org for details.

Calling Pediatricians: Help Inform Research on Youth Mental Health

Audrey Chau is conducting research for her senior thesis at the School of Public and International Affairs at Princeton University. The study explores the role pediatricians play in addressing the youth mental health crisis, with a focus on low-income populations who face significant barriers to accessing care. The research seeks to identify how pediatricians can help reduce stigma and build trust with young patients and their families—an opportunity unique to pediatrics, given the long-term relationships with children from infancy through adolescence.

Please consider completing this survey; it will take less than 10 minutes.  All responses are strictly confidential and will only be reported in aggregate. The deadline to complete the survey is early March 2025.Your expertise and perspective are invaluable to this research.  Feel free to share this with your colleagues and other pediatricians who may be interested in completing the survey.

Empowering minds

Navigating Autism with KSKidsMAP

KSKidsMAP and KAAP continue our partnership to provide the latest, most impactful information on pediatric mental health. This April and May, KSKidsMAP is hosting a series of webinars focused on Autism, culminating in the KANDID Conference on May 2nd at the Heartspring Conference Center in Wichita, KS (8700 East 29th St N, Wichita, KS 67226). The conference is free, and CEs will be offered.

KSKidsMAP Autism Webinars:

• 4/03 – Screening Tools for Autism in Primary Care
  Dr. Bridget Clark – Child & Adolescent Psychiatrist, Pediatrician
• 4/10 – Next Steps: Managing the Waiting Period & Understanding Diagnosis
  Dr. Zachary Blackhurst – Child Psychologist
• 4/17 – Common Medical Issues & Management in Primary Care
  Dr. Valarie Kerschen – Developmental & Behavioral Pediatrician
• 4/24 – Psychiatric Comorbidities in Childhood & Adolescence
  Dr. Cassie Karlsson – Child & Adolescent Psychiatrist

Don’t miss this opportunity to deepen your knowledge and enhance care for children with autism. Mark your calendars and join us!

Continuing the Conversation

Advancing Pediatric Care with CARE ECHO

Join us for the Child Abuse Review and Evaluation ECHO series and dive deep into child maltreatment topics to enhance your ability to recognize and address potential abuse cases.

• February 25: Effects of Spanking: Counseling Families on Corporal Punishment
• March 25: Bruising and Child Abuse
• April 29: Birth Related Injuries
• May 27: Facial Injury Patterns in Physical Abuse
• June 24: Injury Patterns in Stair Related Falls

Spread the Word

National Poison Prevention Week

March 16-24

National Poison Prevention Week is right around the corner! This is a perfect time to help families learn how to prevent poisoning and what to do in an emergency. The Partner Toolkit is packed with ready-to-use images and social media messages to make it easy to raise awareness about household poisons, prevention strategies, and the National Poison Help Line—a crucial resource for both emergencies and information; (800) 222-1222.

Join KAAP, Safe Kids Kansas, and the Kansas Poison Center in sharing this life-saving message. Together, we can help keep kids safe!Access the Toolkit here.

AAP and Physician Groups Urge Congress to Protect Medicaid Funding

The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) and four other national physician organizations are urging Congress to reject proposed Medicaid cuts that could devastate millions of patients.

Congressional budget proposals include significant reductions in federal Medicaid funding over the next decade and structural changes to several healthcare programs. These cuts threaten to undermine a critical safety net that has provided healthcare coverage for decades to children, parents, low-income adults, older adults, pregnant patients, individuals with mental health and substance use disorders, and those with disabilities.

In a unified statement, the AAP, American Academy of Family Physicians, American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, American College of Physicians, and American Psychiatric Association emphasized the importance of preserving Medicaid. These organizations represent more than 400,000 physicians who care for millions of patients nationwide.You can access the complete statement here.

Green Eggs and TAP/TAM: A Dr. Seuss Appeal for Change

Over 7,000 Dr. Seuss books will be distributed by Turn a Page. Touch a Mind.® sites in celebration of Read Across America (March 2nd-9th) and Dr. Seuss’s birthday!

TAP-TAM sites will receive giveaways and books to share with patients during well-child visits, making literacy promotion both fun and engaging. Each site receives a Dr. Seuss hat to add to the festivities, with many locations going even further by incorporating themed days and costumes. This week is a wonderful opportunity to spark joy and highlight the importance of early childhood literacy!

TAP-TAM, funded by the Kansas Pediatric Foundation, is one of the only fully funded literacy programs in the country. Since 2004, trained medical providers have distributed nearly 2 million books to Kansas children, reinforcing the AAP’s recommendation to incorporate early literacy education into well-child visits. Research shows that medical providers have the greatest influence on at-home literacy, and TAP-TAM equips over 175 medical sites across Kansas with the tools and books to make it happen.

Help expand TAP-TAM’s impact—donate today in honor of Read Across America and Dr. Seuss’s birthday!  https://kansasaap.org/donate#tap-tam-program  Is your medical site a TAP-TAM member? Follow this link to fill out an application today. https://kansasaap.org/tap-tam

Conferences and Trainings

• Progress in Pediatrics
  • Thursday, April 3^rd – Friday, April 4^th, 2025
  • Hotel Topeka at City Center
• KSKidsMAP Wellness Event
  • Friday, April 4^th – Saturday, April 5^th, 2025
  • Hotel Topeka at City Center
• Framing Immunization Commentaries Webinars – a fail-proof formula for organizing commentaries. -Julie Sweetland of FrameWorks Institute
  • April 8, 15, and 22, 2025, 12:15-1 pm.
  • CME will be available
  • Register by emailing Michelle.Horst@kansasaap.org

• CARE Update Training
  • The Child Abuse Review and Evaluation Update Training will take a deeper dive into child abuse and maltreatment topics. The training is available to those who have completed the two-day CARE new provider training. 
  • April 22, 2025
  • Child Advocacy Center of Sedgwick County, Wichita 
• KANDID Training
  • May 2^nd, Wichita, KS
  • Details will be available soon.
• KDHE Immunization Conference
  • May 20-22, Wichita, Kansas
  • Registration and details to be forthcoming

• Quality Cause of Death 2025
  • Enhance your understanding of cause-of-death documentation with this free online CME from KS-TRAIN. This course, adapted from CDC resources, provides key insights into completing accurate and high-quality death certificates.
  • Free online training, accessible any time, offers 1.0 AMA PRA Category 1 Credit™ 
• AAP National Conference and Exhibition
  • September 26-30, Denver, CO
  • Registration and Housing opens May 1st