In this thought-provoking episode, we are joined by Sarah Catalanotto, as we delve into the remarkable work of Area Health Education Centers (AHEC) in the state of Florida. Join us as we explore the extensive programming AHEC offers to promote health and facilitate the learning of pre-health professionals, including medical doctors, nurses, occupational therapists, physician assistants, and physical therapists.

AHEC goes beyond traditional classroom education, providing invaluable hands-on experiences that bridge the gap between theory and practice. By working with individuals facing health disparities, AHEC nurtures essential skills such as health literacy, cultural competencies, and an understanding of social determinants of health.

Our guest, Sarah, shares her personal experiences with disability and how she has channeled her knowledge and passion into serving people with disabilities through AHEC. Together, we explore the challenges faced by individuals with disabilities in navigating the healthcare system and discuss the significance of addressing these issues head-on.

As an adjunct professor at the University of Florida in the College of Public Health and Health Professions, Sarah teaches a course called Community-Based Participatory Research. At the heart of this course is discovering how to engage communities, gain their trust, and empower them to identify their needs. We explore the development of programs and policies that address these needs and discuss sustainable approaches to community health initiatives.

Throughout the conversation, we emphasize the importance of mobilizing communities to improve the health of individuals with disabilities. By empowering communities, we can tackle the root causes of preventable diseases and work towards a future where everyone can lead longer, healthier lives.

Join us for this enlightening episode as Sarah shares her insights and advice on how to navigate the healthcare system, mobilize communities, and champion the health and well-being of individuals with disabilities. Together, we can foster positive change and build a healthier, more inclusive society.

Sarah Catalanotto, MPH, CTTS, is the Executive Director at Suwannee River Area Health Education Center. Sarah has been with Suwannee River AHEC since 2011. In this role, she plans, organizes, directs, and evaluates the center’s programming and day-to-day operations. In addition, Sarah assists with grant writing and the development and management of the organization’s budgets, along with coordination of two statewide and two national associations. Prior to working at Suwannee River AHEC, she was a Tobacco Prevention Specialist within the Alachua County Health Department’s Tobacco Prevention and Control Program, and served as a Community Coordinator for the Chronic Disease Program. Sarah received her Bachelor of Art in Political Science and Sociology from Flagler College. Following her passion in healthcare and access to care, she pursed a degree in Public Health from the University of Florida College of Public Health and Health Professions.

Episode Resources

• Suwannee River AHEC: https://srahec.org/
• Suwannee River AHEC LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/srahec/⁠
• Suwannee River Area Health Education Center: p: (386) 462-1551
• Connect with Sarah: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarah-catalanotto-mph-ctts-0b35a31a/
• Smoking Cessation In Populations With Disabilities with Sarah Catalanotto and Tobacco Free Florida: https://open.spotify.com/episode/0nGPRDGUV1nYsTZFuVjPb4

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