Dr. Kandace Thomas’ Commentary on Early Relational Health Featured in International Journal

Congratulations to First 8 Memphis’ Executive Director, Dr. Kandace Thomas, for her recent commentary that was published in the Infant Mental Health Journal, the official journal of the World Association for Infant Mental Health.

The commentary, titled “Early relational health – A promising approach for equitable systems change in pediatrics,” brings attention to the unique opportunity for pediatric primary care to support and nurture early relationships using the Early Relational Health (ERH) framework. 

Dr. Thomas urges more intentional effort in using diversity-informed, anti-racist, equitable systems of care frameworks to enhance and elevate pediatric practice. She offers a call to action to create more equitable and inclusive practice via ERH by: 

• Deepening self and institutional awareness

• Allocating resources for systems change, including infusing greater equity into departmental structures; and

• Building authentic relationships with patients, families, and communities

We are extremely proud that Dr. Thomas’ expertise is being shared with early childhood leaders and practitioners around the world and will hopefully lead to significant improvements in the field. 

The full article is available to subscribers of the Infant Mental Health Journal. Non-subscribers can also purchase limited-time or permanent access here.