A Morning of Perfect Harmony at Conference Opening Ceremony

It’s no exaggeration to describe the opening ceremony audience at the National Conference on Correctional Health Care as captive. Not because they were held against their will, but because they were captivated by an amazing event. From start to finish, the 90-minute session pulsed with poignant insights, startling revelations, hard-won wisdom, abundant humor and even soaring song.

Attendees were treated to two outstanding keynoters. First, Sheryl Lee Ralph (pictured at right) wowed the crowd with a moving speech that affirmed why she is a star of film, television and Broadway, as well as a strong voice in the fight against HIV. Drawing from anecdotes in her life, she not only advocated for inmate health care but also reminded attendees—the invaluable people who deliver that care —that they must not neglect to care for themselves. She brought a powerful stage presence, and it was clear she meant every word.

More subdued but with a wry wit that had the audience laughing repeatedly was Ronald Davis, MD, president of the American Medical Association. Informed by a career in preventive medicine and public health, he is a staunch believer in the correctional health care mission and urged accreditation for all facilities. Some of his observations are noted in the letter above. He also delved into two health problems of relevance to inmates: tobacco use and obesity, along with the need for a good diet and physical activity.

Before the keynote addresses, NCCHC’s new board chair, Robert Morris, MD, shared his goals for his term, and other board members bestowed the Commission’s annual awards. The speakers—presenters and award recipients alike—were seasoned veterans with astute insights. By coincidence, many also had interlinking professional histories, which lent a special warmth to the proceedings. If you were there, you know: More than a few eyes were moist during this event!