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16th US Surgeon General Dr. David Satcher Speaks at Alliance Fund Meeting

The Alliance Fund convened the first annual meeting of its National Board of Advisors, Furthering a National Dialogue on Mental Health and Suicide Prevention, on October 3, 2002 at the St. Regis Hotel in Los Angeles, California.

Dr. David Satcher, former US Surgeon General and now director of the National Center for Primary Care, was the meeting's keynote speaker. In his presentation, Dr. Satcher called for continued action in ending the stigma around mental health and in improving overall quality of healthcare.

"Too many people are having bad experiences in healthcare," stated Dr. Satcher, noting that often individuals who attempt suicide had recent visits to primary care providers. "We have to create a continuum of quality care, and close the gaps between primary and mental health care services."

The Alliance Fund Board of Advisors includes over 50 leaders from diverse sectors, who gathered together in Los Angeles to discuss a range of issues including clinical challenges, health care financing, and best practices. The outcomes from the meeting will drive the Alliance Fund's new communications and public policy strategies to reduce stigma, promote prevention, and increase access to care.

Click here to read more about Dr. David Satcher.