Indiana Chapter Of The American Academy Of Pediatrics Inc

The Indiana Chapter of the American Academy of Pediatrics is dedicated to promoting optimal physical, mental, and social health for all infants, children, adolescents, and young adults. This nonprofit organization is committed to achieving this goal through various initiatives and advocacy efforts.

In 2022, the Indiana Chapter of the American Academy of Pediatrics (INAAP) saw significant strides in its advocacy work. The chapter was able to proactively approach lawmakers with a bill idea and successfully guide it through the legislative process, resulting in a positive change for newborns in Indiana. HB 1254 handed over the power to review and amend the newborn screen from legislators to Indiana's Advisory Committee on Genetics and Genomics, comprised of medical experts. This change allows for yearly reviews and amendments based on best practices, ensuring that newborn screening remains up-to-date.

Additionally, INAAP successfully advocated for lowering the threshold of blood lead levels to trigger treatment and remediation and championed the introduction of universal lead screening for a period of three years. The organization also worked with the ACLU to successfully advocate for a veto of a bill that would have banned transgender children from participating in sports, demonstrating its commitment to advocating for the health and well-being of all children, regardless of their gender identity.

The Indiana Chapter of the American Academy of Pediatrics is not only focused on advocacy but also on membership and programs. To demonstrate value and retain members, the chapter distributes a monthly digital newsletter, hosts various events throughout the year, and meets with interns and residents to provide an overview of the organization and welcome them to the pediatric community. In 2022, the membership committee identified all pediatricians in the state who were members of AAP but not INAAP and reached out to them to understand how INAAP could earn their membership.

The Reach Out and Read program, housed under INAAP, also saw significant expansion in 2022. INAAP was able to secure funding to hire a new program coordinator, expand the program to 15 new clinics, and conduct site quality visits and trainings. Over the course of the year, these clinics distributed 176,716 high-quality and developmentally appropriate books to children and their families, with a focus on serving Indiana's most vulnerable populations.

Innovation was also a focus for INAAP in 2022. The organization received a grant to create a new program focused on pediatric mental health. The Care Program aims to connect children and families in need of mental health services to existing resources in the state, providing ongoing support to navigate barriers and ensure families receive the necessary care. The Care Program sets itself apart by maintaining contact with families and primary care providers to provide updates and assistance in removing barriers to care.