Annual neuroscience update for primary care providers promises to be information-rich

Annual Updates in Neurosciences for Primary Care, March 30, 2019

Physicians, physician assistants, nurses, nurse practitioners, and other interested healthcare professionals in primary care are invited to attend the Annual Updates in Neurosciences for Primary Care, March 30, 2019, at the Radisson Blu Mall of America in Bloomington, MN.

The day-long session, which begins with registration at 7 a.m., is designed to give primary care providers information about the basics as well as the latest advances in neurology, neurosurgery and physical medicine and rehabilitation, according to the event’s Medical Director, Thaddeus (Ted) Walczak, MD, clinical vice-chair of Neurology at the University of Minnesota. Topics range from headache to myofascial pain to new-onset seizures.

“We want to help primary care providers understand how to handle conditions in these areas,” said Walczak. “And to let them know what’s happening at the University of Minnesota so they understand the resources available for their patients.”

Neurosurgery Department speakers include:

Kristen Jones, MD, who specializes in spinal issues and is doubly trained in neurosurgery and orthopaedics, will focus on neck pain. “Dr. Jones’ presentation about back pain last year was one of the most highly rated sessions,” Walczak noted. “She’s a knowledgeable, gifted speaker.” 

Michael Parks, MD, PhD, will discuss, Neuromodulation: Movement Disorders, Epilepsy, and Beyond. “Dr. Park will help summarize the entire session because many of the topics prior to his focus on common problems that could potentially be treated using neuromodulation,” said Walczak. “We’re looking forward to him talking about this exciting and still somewhat novel way of treating multiple neurological conditions. The kind of work he does underscores what we can do at the U more than anywhere else.”

This year’s event also features Minnesota Public Radio (MPR) medical commentator, John Hallberg, MD, of the U’s Department of Family Medicine and Community Health. “We’re very excited to have Dr. Hallberg, who has been featured on MPR more than 500 times and is an award-winning physician and educator,” Walczak said. In addition to Hallberg’s presentation, A Primary Care Provider’s Perspective on Neurological Disorders, he will moderate the morning’s interactive Q&A session; something that’s new to this year’s event.

Attendees will also have an opportunity throughout the day to attend practical sessions about conducting the neurological exam and administering the NIH stroke scale. “These are things that emergency room or primary care providers have to do from time to time and may not always be comfortable with,” said Walczak. “The hands-on sessions will help build these skillsets.”

AMA and ANCC CE hours are available for the session. For more information and to register.