Welcome to another insightful episode of the IDD Health Matters Podcast with Dr. Craig Escude. In this episode, Dr. Escude is joined by two remarkable guests, Nanette Wrobel and Jessica Jacobs from Tarrytown Expocare Pharmacy, a leading provider of pharmacy services for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD).

Nanette, a seasoned pharmacist with nearly 40 years of experience, and Jessica, a pharmacy technician with a strong background in mental health and IDD, share their unique journeys into the IDD field. They discuss the critical role that specialized pharmacy services play in supporting individuals with IDD, emphasizing the importance of tailored medication management and the need for continuous education for healthcare providers.

Throughout the conversation, Dr. Escude and his guests delve into the nuances of medication management for people with IDD, including the challenges of recognizing and addressing non-verbal communication of symptoms and side effects. They also explore the broader implications of health equity in this field, highlighting the progress made and the ongoing need for collaboration among healthcare professionals to improve the quality of care.

Tune in to hear inspiring stories, practical advice, and a deep dive into the collaborative efforts required to enhance the lives of individuals with IDD. Whether you're a healthcare professional, caregiver, or advocate, this episode is packed with valuable insights that can help you make a positive impact in the IDD community.

Don't miss the "Three in Three" segment, where Jessica and Nanette offer actionable tips for improving health and wellness for people with IDD, emphasizing the power of education, volunteerism, and an open-minded approach to learning.

Join us for this enlightening discussion that reinforces the importance of compassionate care and continuous learning in the IDD field.

Join Dr. Craig Escude in this insightful episode of IDD Health Matters, recorded live from the ANCOR conference in Chicago. In this episode, Dr. Escude welcomes Catherine Thibedeau, who shares her remarkable journey from entering the field of supports and services for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) by necessity, to becoming the executive director of Independence Advocates of Maine. Catherine discusses the array of services her agency provides and highlights her dual role in influencing policy and professional development through state and national provider networks.

Catherine's story illustrates the career opportunities within the IDD service field, emphasizing the potential for rapid advancement and professional growth. Additionally, she dives into the innovative health initiatives her organization is pioneering, such as the use of telemedicine to improve accessibility and quality of care for people with IDD, especially in rural settings.

Listeners will gain valuable insights into the importance of inclusive hiring practices and the transformative impact of thoughtful, person-centered caregiving. Whether you’re a provider, a caregiver, or someone interested in the field of IDD services, this episode is packed with inspiring stories and practical advice for fostering health equity and empowering individuals with disabilities.

Tune in to learn how engaging with and supporting the IDD community can enrich lives and enhance the quality of care across the board.

In this episode of IDD Health Matters, Dr. Craig Escudé sits down with Art Dykstra, a veteran in the field of intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). Art, who currently serves as the director of the Trinity Foundation and has previously led Trinity Services as CEO, shares his inspiring journey from an unexpected start in the IDD field to becoming a pivotal figure in providing support and resources for individuals with disabilities across Illinois.

Art's story begins with a simple job posting that led him to work with a young man with autism, a transformative experience that steered him from philosophy to psychology and ultimately into a lifelong commitment to the IDD community. Throughout the conversation, Art reflects on the importance of making a difference in people's lives and how his early experiences shaped his career. His insights into the challenges and rewards of working in this field provide a deep understanding of the complexities and the profound impact one can have on individuals and their families.

Dr. Escudé and Art discuss the vital role of interdisciplinary collaboration in supporting individuals with IDD, emphasizing the need for integrating mental and physical health care. They also explore the concepts of happiness and joy, the importance of self-awareness, and the value of serving others. Art’s dedication to improving the lives of those with IDD is a testament to the power of compassion and commitment, offering valuable lessons for anyone interested in making a difference in this field. Tune in for a heartfelt and enlightening conversation that underscores the profound impact of dedicated service in the lives of others.