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2023

Addressing Drug Use in Teens: What Parents Need to Know

Posted March 09, 2023 by Julie Sich, MS ATC, Director of Quality Improvement and Provider Engagement

Boy in jean jacket talking to mom in yellow shirt

By the time they reach their senior year, nearly 70 percent of high schoolers will have tried alcohol, 50 percent will have taken an illegal drug and more than 20 percent will have used a prescription drug inappropriately, according to the National Institute on Drug Abuse.

These statistics are especially alarming because a child’s brain continues to develop and grow until about age 25. Substance use can affect brain growth and development. Kids who begin substance...

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5 Common Health Conditions That Affect Minorities and Ways to Reduce Risk Factors

Posted February 23, 2023 by Bassey Ijoma, RN Mgr, Quality Improvement, Quality Mgmt – Commercial

Collage of people

Depending on your ethnic background, you may be at higher risk for certain diseases and chronic health conditions. While some of that risk is associated with genetics and lifestyle or cultural habits, another part of that risk is due to what’s called health disparities.

Health disparities highlight differences in social, economic, educational and health care opportunities among certain ethnic groups. These differences are caused by several factors, including:

  • Reduced...

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Donating Blood—Four Important Reasons Why You Should

Posted February 09, 2023 by Michael J. Tan, MD, FACP, FIDSA, Assistant Medical Director

Red heart

The United States is experiencing a national blood supply shortage due to significant disruptions from the COVID-19 pandemic. So, roll up your sleeves to help those in need. We need you!

Donating blood is a life-saving gift. Your blood donation can save the lives of up to three people, according to the American Red Cross. Healthcare providers use blood donations daily for surgery and cancer patients, organ transplant recipients and trauma patients — both young and old....

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Risks of Expired Medicine and Proper Disposal Guidelines

Posted January 26, 2023 by James F. Grow, Jr., M.D.

Person holding a medication bottle

You should dispose of expired prescription and over-the-counter medicines.

Medicine is expensive. It can be frustrating to frequently replace expired, yet unused medicine. However, there’s a good reason the U.S. Food & Drug Administration (FDA) began requiring expiration dates on medicine in 1979. This critical data states whether the product is safe to use and will work as intended.

Using expired medical products is risky and possibly harmful to your health. Once an...

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Five Clutter-Busting Habits to Incorporate Now

Posted January 13, 2023 by Jen Yates, MS, Manager, Health & Wellness and Provider Engagement

Older couple holding donation boxes

With winter in full swing, it’s a great time to focus your energy indoors to declutter your home. Getting rid of excess possessions and organizing your space can improve your mental health, add value to your home and give you the room you need to do the things you love.

A messy, unorganized house can feel overwhelming. In fact, clutter has been shown to have a negative impact on stress levels, productivity and health by making it difficult to focus and relax.

If you&...

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