As part of its ongoing efforts to be a health resource for residents and visitors in Collier County, Collier County Medical Society and the Foundation of CCMS were pleased to host the 14th Annual Women’s Health Forum, a free health education event for the public, on Saturday, April 1st at the Naples United Church of Christ.

From 8:30am-1:00pm, approximately 300 people enjoyed breakout sessions with educational talks from 20 CCMS member physicians, an exhibit hall with 24 vendors that provide services for women, and healthy refreshments, with 15 volunteers and staff helping to make the event possible.

“We are grateful for another successful Women’s Health Forum that was well received by our attendees,” said committee chair Dr. Catherine Kowal. “Thank you to the physician speakers for giving back to the community and to all who supported the event and helped us raise nearly $6,500 for our Foundation.”

The forum, with the theme “Be a Wellness Super Woman” focused on helping attendees develop a deeper understanding of their health and what it takes to become a super, well-fit woman. The presentations were designed to strengthen wellness superpower skills, empowering attendees to achieve their healthcare goals, and included innovations in women’s health, new medical technologies, and important developments in women’s preventive care.

Presenters were carefully selected by the physician members of the Women’s Health Forum Committee. Breakout session topics included: Arthritis, Breast Cancer, Diabetes, Thyroid, Gastroenterology, Autoimmune Disease, Gynecology, Heart Disease, Mental Wellness, Alzheimer’s/Dementia, Nutrition/Supplements, Pain Management, Preventive Care, and more. Each presentation had a dedicated physician Q&A session allowing attendees time to gain a deeper understanding of the topic.

Each year the Forum also allows CCMS to donate funds to its charitable Foundation, to help provide scholarships for future medical professionals and support for local healthcare programs in need. Contributions from event sponsors and exhibitors, plus donations from attendees make this support possible. The event raised approximately $6,500 for the Foundation of CCMS, including attendee donations of nearly $1,000 at the door, and $5,500 of the sponsor and exhibitor fees.

The Women’s Health Forum was made possible with the generosity of presenting sponsors GenesisCare, Healthcare Network, and Hobdari Family Health, and sponsors Advocate Radiation Oncology, Creative Scripts, Naples Heart Rhythm Specialists, and Radiology Regional. Numerous exhibitors and supporters were also critical to the event’s success.

Stay tuned for details on the 2024 Women’s Health Forum next spring.