NIHR President To Speak At Danbury Hospital Program

DANBURY — David B. Larson, MD,  president of the National Institute for Healthcare Research (NIHR), will be the featured guest speaker at two upcoming programs celebrating Pastoral Care Week (October 22-29) at Danbury Hospital.

Sponsored by the hospital’s Pastoral Care Department, Dr Larson will speak at a public forum on Thursday, October 26, at 9:30 am, and again at noon at a program for physicians and area clergy. A continental breakfast and a light luncheon will be served. Both lectures take place at Danbury Hospital’s auditorium, 24 Hospital Avenue.

Dr Larson will discuss “Bridging the Gap Between Spirituality and Health.”

In addition to his role at NIHR, Dr Larson is an adjunct professor of psychiatry and behavioral sciences at both Duke University Medical Center and Northwestern University Medical School. Before joining NIHR, he worked as a senior researcher in the office of the director of the National Institutes of Heath, the office of the secretary of the Department of Health and Human Services, and the Mental Health Services of the National Institute of Mental Health.

Dr Larson is a leader in evaluating and stimulating research in understudied research areas and has published more than 180 professional articles. He also is frequently quoted in the national media. Dr Larson has been recognized by “Who’s Who of Emerging Leaders in America,” “Who’s Who Among Human Services Professionals,” and “Who’s Who in Medicine and Healthcare.”

At both programs on October 26 at Danbury Hospital, Dr Larson will present published research findings that reveal a strong association between spiritual and religious commitment and improved clinical status. He also will provide ample time for questions and answers from the audience.

To register and for more information about Danbury Hospital’s Pastoral Care Day program featuring Dr David B. Larson, call Rev Dr Paul E. Beavers, director of Pastoral Care at Danbury Hospital. He can be reached by calling 797-7059.