Connecting Communities With Researchers
Paula Jordan of Pennington Biomedical Research Center joined Mornings With Brian Haldane to discuss CROWN, a new statewide network designed to connect Louisiana communities with health researchers.
CROWN stands for Community Research for Optimal Wellness Network. The program operates through the Louisiana Clinical and Translational Science Center, also known as LACATS, with Pennington Biomedical serving as the lead agency.
Jordan said CROWN focuses on educating communities about health research while identifying the health issues that matter most to each area. The program will particularly focus on rural Louisiana communities, where health priorities can vary significantly.
Residents Can Help Shape Research
CROWN gives community members opportunities to do more than participate in research studies. Residents can help identify research priorities, join focus groups, serve on advisory boards and assist researchers with community assessments and surveys.
Jordan said researchers will also return to communities to share study results. CROWN plans to translate research publications into easy-to-understand summaries and make them available through its website.
The network also aims to provide community organizations with useful data that they can potentially use when seeking grants and resources.
CROWN Welcomes Community Members and Professionals
Jordan encouraged Louisiana residents, clinicians, community organizations, faith-based groups and other professionals to join the network. Participants can choose the health topics that interest them, including heart disease, cancer, Alzheimer’s disease, nutrition and children’s health.
CROWN also works with other organizations and institutions across Louisiana to build relationships in rural communities. Jordan said partnering with trusted local organizations helps researchers better understand each community and identify its specific needs.
Residents can learn more and join the network at .