Member and Community Relations Update
Linda Gammage Social Work Conference a Success
by Amy Wilson, LICSW – M Health Fairview, Ctr for Bleeding and Clotting Disorders and Kathaleen Schnur, MSW, LCSW – Hemophilia Center of Western PA
Fifty-five-member HTC social workers from across the country gathered in Austin, TX for the 27th Annual Linda Gammage Social Work Conference in February. This year’s conference explored our workplace environments through a trauma-informed care lens, while also exploring the impact of artificial intelligence (AI) and responsible use of technology. Attendees found the sessions to be thought-provoking and dynamic, sparking meaningful conversations about fostering safer, more supportive workspaces.
The conference opened with a full-day training on Trauma-Informed Care (TIC) from an organizational perspective. Led by Dr. Mandy Davis, PhD, LICSW, from Portland State University’s School of Social Work. She is the director of Trauma Informed Oregon. The session deepened participants’ understanding of trauma and its far-reaching effects—not only on patients but also on colleagues and care teams. Dr. Davis explored strategies for harm reduction, workplace healing, and managing toxic stress, equipping attendees with practical tools to enhance wellness and resilience in their own HTCs.
Day two featured Dr. Sara E. Berger, a Senior Research Scientist at IBM research specializing in applied technology ethics. In an engaging and interactive session, she covered AI fundamentals and its emerging role in social work and healthcare, and within bleeding disorders. Dr. Berger encouraged participants to approach AI thoughtfully and responsibly, using collaborative tools to examine its ethical implications and envision a future where AI supports both the profession and the patients it serves.
The Linda Gammage Social Work Planning Committee and conference extend a heartfelt thank you to CSL Behring for its continued support since the conference’s inception in 1997. This event remains a meaningful and impactful cornerstone for HTC social workers and their clinical practice.
Apply to Serve on Linda Gammage Social Worker Conference Planning Committee
by Jeff Amond, Director of Member and Community Relations
To be eligible to serve on the Planning Committee, candidates must be employed at a federally funded Hemophilia Treatment Center (HTC) that is a member of the Hemophilia Alliance. This volunteer role offers a unique opportunity to collaborate with fellow professionals in shaping the content and structure of the annual conference. More information on applying to serve on the Committee can be found here. Interested candidates should submit application requirements to Jeff Amond at amond@hemoalliance.org by Friday May 2nd.
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Also In This Issue…
Jeff Weighs In
Notes From The Community
- Celebrate World Hemophilia Day – Access for All
- 5th Annual HTC Unite for Bleeding Disorders National Walk Challenge
Advocacy and Legal Update
- Senate 340B Bipartisan Working Group Announces New Members
- Closely Watching Medicaid on the Federal and State Levels
Administration and Operations Update
- Hot Topics at the Spring Member Meeting – What’s your HTC elevator speech?
- Exclusively for Medical Providers and Business Administrators – Save The Date for the Next MP/BA Meeting January 11-13th, 2026
- 2025 & 2026 Meeting Schedules