Embodying the Wisconsin Idea, the Central Wisconsin Symposium, sponsored by the Division of Pharmacy Professional Development at the University of Wisconsin-Madison School of Pharmacy, extends opportunities for practical continuing professional development to pharmacists outside of Madison and Milwaukee, areas of the state not consistently served by live continuing education programming.

Now in its fifth year, the Symposium has been held in Appleton, Wausau, Stevens Point and Oshkosh. The Division of Pharmacy Professional Development is pleased to offer this program in two convenient locations in 2015: Green Bay (April 17) and Janesville (May 7). A unique feature of the Central Wisconsin Symposium are the morning didactic sessions, followed by interactive afternoon sessions. The goal of any live program is to offer an educational environment that features more than just a one way flow of information. Learners are given the opportunity to interact with the faculty and to network will colleagues to share best practices, and problem solve. The topics this year are improving kidney health and reaching underserved populations. One in ten American adults have some degree of chronic kidney disease (CKD), and the incidence of CKD is increasing most rapidly in people ages 65 and older. Besides the associated health complications of CKD, co-morbidities are greater for those who have CKD than for those who do not. Despite new evidence-based therapies to slow, stop, or reverse the progression of CKD to end stage renal disease, major systemic barriers continue to limit the implementation of this body of evidence at the level of nephrology practice. Key factors include under or lack of insurance, unstructured medical care systems, and lack of enabling public policies. With approximately 11% of Wisconsin residents living in medically underserved areas, underserved refers to those who face barriers, including financial, cultural or other, to a baseline standard of healthcare.

The morning session will cover three kidney-themed topics: hypertension, anemia, and drug-induced renal diseases. The afternoon session will offer insights and instruction for recognizing and assisting underserved populations. Attendees will interact with local healthcare and social work professionals who will share their experiences and offer practical advice for you to apply in your practice. This workshop will provide attendees with valuable information and give them a chance to network with their peers. View program details and registration information.