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Health Law Section to Host Virtual Panel on Combating Vaccine Hesitancy
The Public Health Committee of the New York State Bar Association’s Health Law Section is organizing a virtual panel discussion focused on addressing vaccine hesitancy and combating healthcare misinformation. Originally planned as a hybrid event, organizers have shifted to an online-only format, with all registrants set to receive login instructions as the event date approaches.
The panel discussion stems from the committee’s “Myth Busting” subcommittee, an initiative specifically designed to tackle false information in healthcare. This timely event comes amid growing concerns about the spread of medical misinformation and its impact on public health outcomes across New York State and beyond.
“Misinformation in healthcare has become a critical public health issue, particularly around vaccines,” said a spokesperson for the Health Law Section. “This panel brings together medical professionals and public health experts to address these concerns head-on.”
The event features an impressive roster of medical professionals and public health experts from across New York State. Panelists include Dr. Ana Mendez, Chief of Ambulatory Pediatrics at Richmond University Medical Center; Dr. Ginny Mantello, a neuroradiologist and public health physician from the Office of the Staten Island Borough President; and Kathy S. Marks from the New York State Department of Health.
Additional panelists include Dr. Melissa L. Mendelson, who brings her expertise in education and public health; Dr. Joanna Pierro, specializing in pediatric hematology oncology at Northwell Health; Dr. Ashley Stephens, a pediatrician and assistant professor at Columbia University Medical Center; and Dr. Toni Eyssallenne, who serves as Deputy Chief Medical Officer for the NYC Department of Health and Mental Hygiene.
The panel discussion reflects a growing trend among medical and legal organizations to actively combat health misinformation through educational initiatives. Healthcare misinformation has been identified as a significant obstacle to public health efforts, particularly in areas like vaccination campaigns where hesitancy can lead to decreased immunization rates and potential disease outbreaks.
Mark R. Ustin of Farrell Fritz, P.C. in Albany serves as the Health Law Section Chair. Program chairs include Heather M. Butts, JD, MPH, MA, HPM, from Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health; Karen L.I. Gallinari from Pace University’s Elisabeth Haub School of Law; and Dorothy Shuldman from Catholic Health in Buffalo.
The event is being cosponsored by H.E.A.L.T.H. for Youths, Inc., a non-profit organization dedicated to improving health outcomes for young people through education and advocacy. While the panel discussion will serve as an informational resource for attendees, organizers note that it will not carry Continuing Legal Education (CLE) credit.
The New York State Bar Association has emphasized its commitment to accessibility, directing those with accommodation needs to visit their website for more information about disability services. Individuals wishing to register can do so online or by contacting the Member Resource Center at 1-800-582-2452.
Healthcare misinformation has become particularly problematic in recent years, with the rise of social media platforms allowing false claims to spread rapidly. Public health officials have repeatedly emphasized the importance of combating this trend through reliable, expert-driven information campaigns.
The virtual format of the event reflects the ongoing adaptation of professional organizations to changing circumstances, allowing for broader participation while maintaining public health standards.
Phillips Lytle LLP is acknowledged as a sponsor for the event, highlighting the important role that private sector support plays in facilitating these educational initiatives.
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10 Comments
It’s great that the organizers shifted to a virtual-only format for this event. This will make it more accessible to a wider audience and ensure broader participation, which is crucial for addressing such an important public health issue.
Agreed. The online format will allow more people to tune in and engage with the panel discussion, which is key to raising awareness and finding solutions.
Interesting to see the Health Law Section taking a proactive approach to this issue. Medical misinformation can have serious consequences, so I’m glad they’re focusing on strategies to counter it effectively.
Absolutely. Vaccine hesitancy fueled by false claims is a real concern, so this panel discussion could provide valuable insights and guidance.
I’m curious to hear the panelists’ perspectives on the root causes of medical misinformation and how best to address the spread of false narratives, especially on social media. This is a complex challenge that requires a multi-faceted approach.
The lineup of medical professionals and public health experts on this panel is impressive. I’m looking forward to hearing their insights and practical strategies for combating healthcare misinformation.
This panel discussion on combating healthcare misinformation is much needed. It’s critical that we have open and honest dialogues to address the spread of false information, especially around important public health issues like vaccines.
I agree, misinformation has become a major problem, particularly during the pandemic. It’s great to see medical professionals and experts coming together to tackle this head-on.
This event couldn’t come at a more crucial time. As we continue to navigate the COVID-19 pandemic, addressing the spread of medical misinformation has become increasingly important for protecting public health.
Absolutely. Misinformation has had a real impact on vaccine hesitancy and uptake, so this panel discussion is a timely and necessary initiative.