Tag Archives: Health and Medical

Record Early Enrollment for Lower Extremity Fellows, Residents & Young Surgeon 3rd Annual Course

SAN DIEGO, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- Magnifi Group, Inc. and Bespa Global, LLC, co-organizers of the program, announced today that despite the change of date for its 3rd Annual Lower Extremity IEP Fellows, Residents and Young Surgeons Course it is still experiencing record early registration. The course, originally scheduled for May 1-3 will take place from November 6-8, 2020 at The Omni Downtown, Austin, Texas.

This increased level of interest has been attributed to COVID-19 and the lack of in-person training opportunities for these young clinicians.

Lower Extremity IEP Program Co-chair, Dr. Donald R. Bohay, who serves as Professor Orthopaedic Surgery, Michigan State University and the Director of Grand Rapids Orthopedic Foot and Ankle Fellowship Program, said now more than ever, the prior and incoming class of Orthopedic Fellows and Final Year Podiatric Residents will significantly benefit from the Lower Extremity IEP Course.

"Given the current pandemic, these residents and fellows have not had the opportunity to participate in the usual array of cases, cadaver labs and in-person educational sessions," Dr. Bohay said. Dr. Bohay added that the impact is not limited to large COVID-19 cluster cities - it has impacted centers and schools across the country.

The Lower Extremity IEP Fellows, Residents & Young Surgeons' Course has been specifically developed to educate Fellows, Residents and Young Surgeons on current topics related to the practice of foot and ankle surgery, as well as to assist attendees with the transition from academics to practicing surgeon. The classroom format for the course is highly interactive; all sessions conclude with question/answer sessions and panel discussions. The course will be limited to 35 attendees to accommodate a didactics rotation schedule of up to 15 tables hosted by medical device and biologics companies. Cadaver labs will also be offered during the intense 21/2 day course.

Dr. Christopher L. Reeves, Program Co-chair and Faculty and Director of Research Advent Health Podiatric Surgical Residency, said he anticipates registration will fill up by mid-September. "The registration process will pick up even faster once the outgoing group of fellows and residents know their schedules and the incoming group are firmly in place."

The Lower Extremity IEP Fellows, Residents & Young Surgeons' Course is led by Dr. Gregory C. Pomeroy, Clinical Associate Professor of Surgery at the University of New England.

Magnifi Group, Inc. is a developer of a FDA-compliant eLearning platform for the medical device and biologics industries. The company also hosts the Spine IEP Live Fellows Course; the Lower Extremity IEP Live Fellows Course and the Hip and Knee IEP Live Fellows Course.

Bespa Global, LLC is dedicated to improving patient care through education and advancements in medical science. Our unique model is changing the way Medical Companies and Health Care Professionals work together to improve patient outcomes.

Learn more at: https://www.lowerextremity-iep.com/

For Additional Information Contact:

Laura McClain: lmcclain@magnifigroup.com

Chris Newell: cnewell@bespaglobal.com

*IMAGE link for media: https://www.Send2Press.com/300dpi/20-0521s2p-seal-lower-iep-300dpi.jpg

Magnifi Group, Inc. and Bespa Global, LLC, co-organizers of the program, announced today that despite the change of date for its 3rd Annual Lower Extremity IEP Fellows, Residents and Young Surgeons Course it is still experiencing record early registration. The course, originally scheduled for May 1-3 will take place from Nov. 6-8, 2020 at The Omni Downtown, Austin, Texas.

Related link: http://www.magnifigroup.com/

PACIFIC ENGINEERING, INC. develops Rapid On Demand Portable Medical Platforms to help in the war against the pandemic

ROCA, Neb. /ScoopCloud/ -- Pacific Engineering, Inc., winner of the U.S. Small Business Administration's 2014 Tibbetts Award for innovative technology, in response to the pandemic, has focused its resources on the development of a family of composite shelters that can be used as mobile test centers and patient treatment.

Specifically, these Rapid On Demand Portable Medical Platforms (ROD-PMP(TM)) may be easily and quickly deployed to areas or sites that lack diagnostic test capability such as rural hospitals, long-term care facilities, correctional institutions, critical industries (meat packing), sports venues, etc., to provide ready access testing for virus or similar outbreaks. Currently, platform models include a series of Test Platforms (Models 1000, 1100, 1200, and 1300) that provide rapid Point-of-Care testing and screening; and, Patient Treatment Models (Series 2000 and 3000 Models) that provide full service treatment and patient isolation for communities and hospitals that require these "surge" resources.

All ROD-PMP models utilize a lightweight composite structure that is durable, will not corrode, and easy to maintain. These units are deployable in all seasons and environments and are designed to the latest standard (ASTM 1925) for rigid wall relocatable structures (RWRS); the same criteria that is used by the U.S. Military for their tactical hospitals. All models can be transported using existing modes (common carrier) and set-up onsite using forklifts or cranes. PEI has designed the ROD-PMP in accordance with CDC guidelines and can be customized to meet specific user needs.

"When COVID-19 began to impact the U.S., our community and our employees, PEI began to consider what we could do to help combat this pandemic," stated Osie Combs, PEI President and retired Navy Rear Admiral. "Normally, our capabilities are utilized to support the U.S. Warfighter and help them take the fight to our foreign enemies. In this case, we are utilizing our advanced composites know-how to help fight a war on our soil, a more personal battle to protect our own families and communities. The ROD-PMP(TM) product line utilizes the latest technology in materials and design. PEI is dedicated to fielding a product that ramps up our nation's test capabilities, and equally important, a system that also protects our incredible healthcare workers."

PEI will be offering the ROD-PMP product line to communities, hospitals, agencies, and organizations throughout the United States. Our design and manufacturing facility stands ready to provide these systems within weeks of order placement. The ROD-PMP is the next step in fighting the pandemic and beyond.

Pacific Engineering, Inc. (PEI), is high tech small business located in Lincoln, Nebraska. Since 1998, PEI has been a leading designer and manufacturer of advanced composite structures for the military and commercial markets.

For more information please contact:

Osie V. Combs, Jr., President Vice President, ocombs@pacificengineeringinc.com

Dexter Myers, Vice President, dexter.myers@pacificengineeringinc.com

Our website is: https://www.pacificengineeringinc.com/

*PHOTO link for media: https://www.Send2Press.com/300dpi/20-0521s2p-pei-ROD-PMP-300dpi.jpg

Pacific Engineering, Inc., winner of the U.S. Small Business Administration's 2014 Tibbetts Award for innovative technology, in response to the pandemic, has focused its resources on the development of a family of composite shelters that can be used as mobile test centers and patient treatment.

Related link: https://www.pacificengineeringinc.com/

‘Ultimate Tag’: A Spinal CSF Leak Survivor Chases His Limits

SPOKANE, Wash. /ScoopCloud/ -- Spinal CSF Leak Foundation is pleased to announce that former patient and Harrisburg, Pennsylvania stuntman Zac Gordon will be featured in the recurring role of "Horse," a Professional Tagger on the new FOX show "Ultimate Tag," premiering May 20 at 9 p.m./8 central.

To celebrate his appearance, Spinal CSF Leak Foundation is featuring an interview with Zac Gordon about his seven-year battle with a painful spinal CSF leak that left him bedridden; his recovery process after the surgery that cured him; and what it was like filming the show.

READ THE INTERVIEW HERE: https://spinalcsfleak.org/ultimate-tag-spinal-csf-leak-survivor-chases-limits/

A spinal CSF leak occurs when there is a tear or hole in the dura mater-the tough membrane that covers the brain and spinal cord, which are bathed in cerebrospinal fluid-allowing cerebrospinal fluid to leak out. When this defect in the dura mater occurs along the spine, it is called a spinal CSF leak. The intracranial hypotension that can result from this - a condition in which the fluid pressure inside the skull is lower than normal - often causes debilitating pain, neurological difficulties, and renders patients bedridden, as their ability to be upright is severely limited.

Intracranial hypotension due to spinal CSF leak is an important and under-diagnosed cause of new onset headache that is treatable and curable in many cases - with the correct diagnosis.

In talking with the Spinal CSF Leak Foundation, Zac characterized his time on "Ultimate Tag" as a "dream job," and the most fun he's ever had, saying that pushing himself that hard physically was "the kind of thing I never thought I would have an opportunity to do again" after enduring seven years of pain due to his spinal CSF leak.

He did worry about reinjuring himself again, but says that "when it was all said and done, I came out with bumps, bruises, and even a broken hand-but not a single spinal CSF leak symptom."

Now he is back in the gym he runs, a parkour and "ninja warrior" training facility called Urban Playground in Harrisburg PA, and is grateful for the information and help he received from the Spinal CSF Leak Foundation during the years he was suffering. "Simply put, if it wasn't for the Spinal CSF Leak Foundation, I might be still looking for what was wrong with me, and ultimately still leaking."

Finally, his message to fellow spinal CSF leak sufferers who may be watching him on "Ultimate Tag" is a positive one: "Know your body, educate yourself, put in the work, and never stop believing. YOU GOT THIS!"

About the Spinal CSF Leak Foundation

Spinal CSF Leak Foundation is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization whose mission is to reduce the suffering of persons affected by intracranial hypotension or spinal cerebrospinal fluid leak. We strive to raise awareness, to educate medical professionals and laypersons, and to stimulate and fund research such that persons affected by intracranial hypotension or spinal CSF leak will experience shorter diagnostic delays, receive more timely and appropriate diagnostic testing and treatments, and have better long-term outcomes.

To learn more, please visit https://spinalcsfleak.org/.

*PHOTO link for media: https://www.Send2Press.com/300dpi/20-0520s2p-ultimate-tag-horse-300dpi.jpg

Spinal CSF Leak Foundation is pleased to announce that former patient and Harrisburg, Pennsylvania stuntman Zac Gordon will be featured in the recurring role of "Horse," a Professional Tagger on the new FOX show "Ultimate Tag," premiering May 20 at 9 p.m./8 central.

Related link: https://spinalcsfleak.org/

Americans Reminded to Enjoy the Sun Safely this Summer

WASHINGTON, D.C. /ScoopCloud/ -- To turn the tide against rising rates of skin cancer in the United States, the National Council on Skin Cancer Prevention - and it's broad national member coalition of over 45 organizations - has designated the Friday before Memorial Day as the 12th annual "Don't Fry Day" to encourage sun safety awareness and to remind everyone to protect their skin while enjoying the outdoors. The theme of this year's campaign is "Because Sun Safety Looks Good on You."

"As we get ready to kick off the summer with Memorial Day Weekend, it's more important than ever to be sun safe and practice social distancing. Everyone can do it by applying sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, and throwing on a wide-brimmed hat while maintaining a safe distance from others when you go outside," says John D. Antonishak, executive director of the National Council for Skin Cancer Prevention. "This years' Don't Fry Day is a reminder that you can still enjoy the outdoors while protecting yourself and those around you from skin cancer and COVID-19."

Skin cancer is the most common type of cancer in the nation, with almost 5.5 million cases diagnosed in Americans each year - more than breast, colon, lung and prostate cancers combined. In fact, 1 out of every 5 Americans will be diagnosed with some form of skin cancer in their lifetime.

Skin cancer is highly preventable. Over 90% of all skin cancer is caused by exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun or indoor tanning devices.

Americans can dramatically reduce their risk of skin cancer by:
* Not burning or tanning intentionally - no tan is a safe tan;
* Generously applying sunscreen (remember to reapply every two hours);
* Wearing sun-protective clothing;
* Seeking shade during peak times of the day; and
* Using extra caution near water, snow and sand.

About Don't Fry Day:

"Don't Fry Day," now in its twelfth year, is the nation's unified public awareness campaign that aims to reduce the number of new skin cancer diagnoses by promoting sun safety and encouraging people to protect their skin while enjoying the outdoors. Learn more at https://www.skincancerprevention.org/programs/dont-fry-day

For more information on how to protect yourself and your family from skin cancer and help raise awareness, visit SkinCancerPrevention.org. Follow the National Council on Facebook (Facebook.com/Natlcouncilskincancerprevention) and Twitter (@SkinCancerPrev).

About the National Council on Skin Cancer Prevention:

The National Council on Skin Cancer Prevention is the united voice of more than 45 organizations, associations and agencies dedicated to prevent skin cancer through education, advocacy, and raising awareness. National Council members represent the nation's premier physicians, researchers, clinicians and advocates for skin cancer prevention.

Learn more at https://skincancerprevention.org/

*IMAGE link for media: https://www.Send2Press.com/300dpi/20-0520s2p-dont-fry-day-300dpi.jpg
Photo caption: Friday before Memorial Day Declared "Don't Fry Day" to Turn Tide against Skin Cancer.

To turn the tide against rising rates of skin cancer in the United States, the National Council on Skin Cancer Prevention - and it's broad national member coalition of over 45 organizations - has designated the Friday before Memorial Day as the 12th annual "Don't Fry Day" to encourage sun safety awareness and to remind everyone to protect their skin while enjoying the outdoors.

Related link: https://skincancerprevention.org/

Silver Solutions Offers Free Infographic Designed to Help Families Who Lost Loved Ones During COVID Crisis

PALM BEACH, Fla. /ScoopCloud/ -- Silver Solutions, a company specializing in helping older adults and their families live safer, less stressful lives wherever they call home, today released a new downloadable infographic entitled “What to do with Mom’s Home after she passes” for posting or sharing.

For more than a decade, the company has been helping families in the metropolitan areas of New York City, Chicago and most recently South Florida, make growing older easier and less stressful through senior safe living home improvements, relocation to assisted to living and dissolving a family’s home after the loss of a loved one.

With the increase in COVID-19 deaths in recent weeks, the company’s Nothing Forgotten arm in New York City has been hard at work helping families that have suffered the loss of a loved one, by providing compassionate, professional help cleaning and emptying family homes and apartments. For Silver Solutions, the inspiration for the creation of this infographic, was to provide families impacted by the pandemic with a simple guide outlining the most immediate priorities for the home while also honoring the legacy of their loved ones.

“These are unprecedented times in every way and Silver Solutions work helping families has never been more important and urgent. Among the big changes we’re seeing during this pandemic are families seeking our help within the first 30 days after the loss of a loved one instead of the usual 60-90 days, especially where it involves a rental apartment or assisted living community,” notes Dan Lagani, Silver Solutions Co-Founder and CEO.

“Our work with seniors and their families over the past decade has help us create a professional and compassionate process that makes it easier for families to ready the home for sale while carefully curating all that made their loved one so special,” says Laura Olivares, Silver Solutions President and Co-Founder.

If you need help with honoring, sorting, distributing, donating, recycling and more related to the emptying of a family home, Silver Solutions just takes a click or call (877) AGE-SAFE for a virtual or in-home assessment.

Founded as Nothing Forgotten, Silver Solutions has been making growing older easier and less stressful for adults and their families for more than a decade in New York, Chicago and Florida. The business specializes in 3 areas: senior home safety improvements, downsizing/relocation and the dissolution of homes after the relocation or loss of a loved one. It is led by co-founders, Dan Lagani and Laura Olivares who are combining their expertise in communications, senior advocacy, organizing, home and health to make a difference in the lives of older adults.

Learn more: https://silversolutions.com/

FOR MORE INFORMATION OR INTERVIEWS WITH Laura Olivares and Dan Lagani:
Jacqueline Majers Lachman
jacqueline@silversolutions.com
914-409-5230

*IMAGE link for media: https://www.Send2Press.com/300dpi/20-0515s2p-SS-Infographic-mom-300dpi.jpg

*Dropbox link: https://www.dropbox.com/s/mtl7817bleo1npx/Silver%20Solutions%20Home%20Dissolution%20Infographic.pdf?dl=0

Silver Solutions, a company specializing in helping older adults and their families live safer, less stressful lives wherever they call home, today released a new downloadable infographic entitled “What to do with Mom’s Home after she passes” for posting or sharing.

Related link: https://silversolutions.com/

Atlanta Face & Body ushers in new procedures to keep patients and staff safe amid pandemic

ATLANTA, Ga. /ScoopCloud/ -- Atlanta Face & Body announces new safety protocols during the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. As a medical office and accredited ambulatory surgery facility, the Atlanta-based practice has always been held to a high level of cleanliness and sterility. But just like countless other businesses across the country, the practice has had to adapt to a new wave of precautionary measures to ensure it's the utmost safe environment for patients as well as staff.

When patients arrive for their appointment, the first thing they'll notice is a new station set up in the reception area. There, the practice will supply masks, gloves, and a brief symptom questionnaire for all patients to fill out. A member of the staff will then take a temperature reading of the patient with a no-touch infrared thermometer.

Each member of the staff, who will also be wearing gloves and a mask, will have their temperatures checked daily before interacting with patients. In addition, the staff will be wearing scrubs that will be changed each day and thoroughly washed before being worn again. To take things a step further, every treatment room and common area at the practice will be sanitized at the beginning of each day and immediately following each patient interaction.

And the practice has no shortage of sanitizer to go around. Patients will also notice this abundance of hand sanitizer throughout the office, with at least one sanitizing stating in every room.

Dr. Elizabeth Whitaker, proprietor of the practice, emphasized that appointments are being spaced out to ensure proper social distancing at any given time, and if patients have to wait for any reason, they can remain in their cars and be notified as soon as a treatment room is available.

Whitaker reiterated that, all of these new measures, though different than what her staff and patients are used to, are to make sure everyone stays safe and well during the outbreak.

"We love our patients and are so happy to be a part of their lives again, no matter how different things are right now," Whitaker said.

For more information on Atlanta Face & Body's safety procedures, call (678) 888-3223.

Learn more at: https://www.atlantafaceandbody.com/

Atlanta Face & Body announces new safety protocols during the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. As a medical office and accredited ambulatory surgery facility, the Atlanta-based practice has always been held to a high level of cleanliness and sterility.

Related link: https://www.atlantafaceandbody.com/

Therapeutic Music Video Reduces Stress of Coronavirus Lockdown

MADISON, Wis. /ScoopCloud/ -- The International Forgiveness Institute (IFI) announced today that University of Wisconsin-Madison psychologist Robert Enright, Ph.D., has teamed up with acclaimed songwriter-performer Sam Ness to produce a "therapeutic music-discussion video" for adults who are struggling with the anguish created by the coronavirus lockdown.

Called "Forgiveness," the hour-long video incorporates original compositions written and performed by Ness with related summary discussion bites on the virtue of forgiveness to create what Enright calls "forgiveness therapy through music" or simply "music of the heart." The complete production is available at no cost on YouTube and on the IFI website.

"Every person in the world is dealing with some form of pain or toxic anger from being hurt in the past," Enright said in explaining why he and Ness produced the video. "The coronavirus lockdown has a tendency to amplify those internal feelings and cause additional stress so this is the ideal time to practice forgiveness by being good to yourself (self-forgiveness) and good to others."

The Forgiveness video includes a rolling discussion between Enright, co-founder of the International Forgiveness Institute, and Ness that summarizes the four phases of the patented Enright Forgiveness Process Model that has become the standard for forgiveness and forgiveness therapy around the world.

"Sam has added high artistry to the language of forgiveness with his voice and his guitar," Enright says. "Instead of reading a book to learn how to forgive, Sam's songs provide forgiveness therapy through music."

With the coronavirus pandemic shutting down most television and movie productions for now, would-be viewers of those non-existent productions are looking for something new to watch as they shelter in place, according to Enright. "This video is just what they need-emotional self-improvement."

In addition to the song "Forgiveness," Ness performs two other original compositions on the video: "Storm Inside of Me" (a ballad about self-forgiveness) and "I've Come for Grace" (a song he wrote about life's trials while he was undertaking a 96-mile winter hike through the Highlands of Scotland).

The 22-year-old Ness, a native of Sauk City, Wisconsin, began his song-writing career at age 15 and performed in show choir musicals throughout his high school years earning him scores of awards including two Wisconsin Tommy Awards for Outstanding Lead Performer and more than a handful of Outstanding Male Soloist Awards.

After high school, Ness passed up scholarship offers to study theater from half-a-dozen prestigious universities and music conservatories. Instead, he hitch-hiked and hopped busses for nearly a year across Scotland, England, France, Spain, Portugal, and Switzerland while learning the fine art of "busking" (street performing).

The following year, Ness busked across much of New Zealand before signing on for a 23-show tour across Thailand and Cambodia. Since returning to Wisconsin, he finished writing and recording an album, "Lullabies & Faerie Tales." He was nominated for several Madison-area music awards and won the Male Vocalist of the Year Award in 2019. Most of his music is available on his website: http://www.samness.us/.

Ness will be traveling throughout Wisconsin and Minnesota this summer (COVID-19 permitting) as part of a solo musical tour featuring performances in 19 separate venues including resorts, lounges, wineries and brewpubs.

That tour has been arranged and scheduled by Jonathan Little Productions, a talent agency owned by Jonathan Little-a life-long radio broadcaster and promoter of local artists. Little also helped arrange and produce the "Forgiveness" video. He received the Madison Area Music Awards Lifetime Achievement Award in 2007 and was inducted into the Wisconsin Broadcasters Association Hall of Fame in 2008.

"As this new video demonstrates, forgiveness is a paradox in which people are kind to those who were unkind to them," according to Enright. "That's something we can all benefit from in this time of coronavirus lockdown. Forgiveness has the power you can use to free yourself from past hurts so you can live a better life."

For more information, visit: https://internationalforgiveness.com/.

About Robert Enright and the International Forgiveness Institute:

Robert Enright is a licensed psychologist and professor of Educational Psychology at the University of Wisconsin-Madison who pioneered the scientific study of forgiveness. The university recently named him the Aristotelian Professor in Forgiveness Science. Time magazine has called him "the forgiveness trailblazer" and The Christian Science Monitor labeled him "the father of forgiveness research."

Twenty-five years ago, Enright co-founded the not-for-profit International Forgiveness Institute which has become the world's largest online repository of forgiveness information. The Forgiveness Education Curriculum Guides he developed for children in pre-kindergarten through 12th grade are being used in more than 30 countries across the globe including Canada, China, Colombia, Iran, Israel, Kenya, Lebanon, Liberia and Rwanda. His grade-school Forgiveness Education Program in Belfast, Northern Ireland, has been in operation for 17 continuous years.

VIDEO (YouTube): https://youtu.be/NyB4kQLK99s

*PHOTO links for media:
[1] https://www.Send2Press.com/300dpi/20-0514s2p-Robert-Enright-300dpi.jpg
[2] https://www.Send2Press.com/300dpi/20-0514s2p-Sam-Ness-300dpi.jpg

The International Forgiveness Institute (IFI) announced today that University of Wisconsin-Madison psychologist Robert Enright, Ph.D., has teamed up with acclaimed songwriter-performer Sam Ness to produce a "therapeutic music-discussion video" for adults who are struggling with the anguish created by the coronavirus lockdown.

Related link: https://internationalforgiveness.com/

The Santa Fe Group Awards Emeritus Status to Founding Member, Elects Three New Board Members and Appoints New Senior Scholar

NEW YORK, N.Y. /ScoopCloud/ -- The Santa Fe Group (SFG), a not-for-profit, action-oriented think tank with a passion for improving lives through oral health, announced today the new emeritus status of one of its founding members, the election of three new board members, and the appointment of a new Senior Scholar, all esteemed healthcare leaders in their fields.

They are:
* Emeritus Member: Harold C. Slavkin, D.D.S., Professor and Dean Emeritus at the Herman Ostrow School of Dentistry, University of Southern California (USC) and Founding Member of the Santa Fe Group
* New Board Member: Kathryn A. Atchison, D.D.S., M.P.H., Professor of Public Health and Community Dentistry, University of California at Los Angeles
* New Board Member: Judith Haber, Ph.D., A.P.R.N., F.A.A.N., Ursula Springer Leadership Professor in Nursing, New York University
* New Board Member: Ira B. Lamster, D.D.S., M.M.Sc., Dean Emeritus and Professor of Dental Medicine at Columbia University College of Dental Medicine
* New Senior Scholar: Dianne Rekow, Professor and Executive Dean Emeritus of King's College London Dental Institute; Former Professor of Orthodontics, Chair of Basic Science and Craniofacial Biology, and Senior Vice Provost of Engineering Technology at New York University

"We are thrilled to provide emeritus status to one of our founding members and warmly welcome our newest board members and new senior scholar," said Santa Fe Group President Steven W. Kess. "They bring tremendous expertise, talent and energy in key areas that are vital to our future impact as a change maker for oral health, and thereby the overall health, of all Americans. We are very fortunate to have them by our side to expand our role in the oral health landscape and beyond."

About the Santa Fe Group

The Santa Fe Group is a 501(c)(3), action-oriented think tank with a passion to improve lives through oral health. Since its inception 25 years ago, the Santa Fe Group has been instrumental as a neutral convener, communicator, connector and catalyst to move the needle on critical issues such as oral cancer, dental education reform, children's oral health, improved primary care access, the importance of linking medical and dental health systems, and most recently, expanding oral healthcare for our nation's seniors.

Learn more: http://santafegroup.org/ and @SantaFeGroupOrg.

Media Contact: Victoria Rodriguez Minowitz, 516.532.3363, Victoria@victoriaRMconsulting.com

*PHOTO link for media: https://www.Send2Press.com/300dpi/20-0512s2p-sante-fe-group-300dpi.jpg

The Santa Fe Group (SFG), a not-for-profit, action-oriented think tank with a passion for improving lives through oral health, announced today the new emeritus status of one of its founding members, the election of three new board members, and the appointment of a new Senior Scholar, all esteemed healthcare leaders in their fields.

Related link: http://santafegroup.org/

SPODAK DENTAL GROUP Safely Reopens to Care for Community Members

DELRAY BEACH, Fla. /ScoopCloud/ -- It's been a trying time for everyone during the Coronavirus pandemic, but the Spodak Dental Group (SDG) team is reopening their doors to provide needed dental care to their community members. After following the Center for Disease Control (CDC), American Dental Association (ADA) and Gov. DeSantis' guidelines for flattening the Coronavirus curve for the past several weeks, the SDG team will begin seeing all current and future patients for emergency and routine dental procedures starting Monday, May 11.

"We've taken measures to ensure a very cautious reopening route with a goal to open sustainably, safely, and for the long term," said Dr. Craig Spodak, general dentist at Spodak Dental Group. "In fact, the safety measures we've put in place are above and beyond the recommended CDC and dental board guidelines, so we are confident we are doing all that we can to ensure the safety of our patients, team and community."

The SDG team has taken careful consideration to implement health-focused additions to the company's standard of care, with a goal to provide the highest level of care possible and ensure a safe environment for both patients and team members.

Rotating Teams

In an effort to offer continuous service to patients, the office will be open from Monday through Saturday from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. and teams will treat patients in two shifts. One team will serve patients from Monday through Wednesday, and the second team will serve patients from Thursday through Saturday.

Safety Protocols

While safety has always been a top priority for the entire team, the SDG team has implemented new and additional protocols and personal protective equipment to elevate their safety standards to the next level. A thermal scanner will be used to register the body temperate of all patients and team members prior to anyone entering the building. Additionally, all patients will be asked COVID-related questions when making an appointment, confirming an appointment, and at the time of the appointment.

LEED Gold Certified Facility

Not only does the Gold LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) Facility have 66% more fresh air than than code requires, but 88% of the building is lit by sunlight, which research shows is germicidal and bactericidal. They've also installed UVC air filtration systems, which kills any germs or bacteria that can cause sickness, and perform nightly disinfecting protocols with high-grade cleaning products and a fogger that kills the COVID-19 virus.

Since 1976, the Spodak Dental Group, a 2017 Inc. 5000 honoree, has evolved to become South Florida's premier, comprehensive dental facility, and comprises a world-class association of dental professionals poised to provide full-service dental care second-to-none in both scope and skill. The Spodak Dental Group team includes General and Restorative Dentists, Endodontists, Periodontists, Board Certified Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons, Master Ceramic Artists and Anesthesiologists, as well as one of the nation's only in-office dental labs.

Spodak Dental Group is located at 3911 W. Atlantic Ave. in Delray Beach, Fla. Please visit https://www.spodakdental.com, email inform@spodakdental.com or call/text (561) 303-2413 for more information or to make an appointment.

VIDEO (YouTube): https://youtu.be/1m3Z_gJj3Ho

It's been a trying time for everyone during the Coronavirus pandemic, but the Spodak Dental Group (SDG) team is reopening their doors to provide needed dental care to their community members. The SDG team will begin seeing all current and future patients for emergency and routine dental procedures starting Monday, May 11.

Related link: https://www.spodakdental.com/

Colorado Optometric Association Warns Patients to Be Cautious of ‘At-Home Eye Exam’ or ‘Vision Test’ Product Claims

DENVER, Colo. /ScoopCloud/ -- Some companies are taking advantage of the COVID-19 pandemic and asserting that their devices make it easy to conduct an eye exam at home. The truth of the matter is, there are a number of components that are part of an in-person, comprehensive eye exam with a doctor of optometry and there is no U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA)-approved, at-home device or app that people can use to self-conduct all of the elements of a proper eye examination. The Colorado Optometric Association, together with the American Optometric Association (AOA), warns that it is more important than ever to be aware of products that give the mistaken impression that their devices can substitute for a comprehensive eye examination or that they can shortcut getting a contact lens or eyeglasses prescription.

"When patients rely on an app for an eyeglass or contact lens prescription, they can receive inaccurate or misleading information and potentially delay essential sight saving treatment. In addition, changes in refractive status can be an underlying symptom of a number of eye or systemic conditions, which can only be detected through an in-person, comprehensive eye exam," says COA President, Dr. Buchanan. "We want to ensure that patients have access to medically-recognized eye health care and to protect them from companies, platforms or services that may put their health at risk."

The Colorado Optometric Association is joining with the AOA, patient advocacy organizations, state attorneys general and the media in warning the public about the lack of effectiveness and potential dangers of these devices and their marketing promises. With the proliferation of these online apps, optometry and other health care providers have continued to raise concerns about their safety and efficacy-including the potential for inaccurate prescriptions, missed diagnoses of serious and general health conditions, and the creation of a prescription with little input from an eye doctor.

"Eye exams with doctors of optometry, America's primary eye health and vision care providers, are essential health care that provide more than just a prescription but are also a critical component of patient's preventive health regimen. During this time, patients should work with their doctors to make use of health technologies that enhance care, and not be misled by questionable marketing claims that undermine it," AOA President Barbara L. Horn, O.D., says. "Patients need to be wary of any company that claims its device can replace the care that a doctor provides."

States are beginning to reopen health care access and eye doctors across the country are starting to safely provide comprehensive eye health examinations once again. Patients looking to schedule their annual eye examinations or update their prescriptions should contact their eye doctors, who are employing in-person and telehealth protocols to provide necessary refills and other eye health and vision care with one goal in mind - to protect everyone's health and safety.

About the Colorado Optometric Association (COA):

The Colorado Optometric Association (COA) is the professional organization of optometrists in Colorado. Over 600 Colorado Doctors of Optometry are voluntary members of the Association.

Since 1892, the COA has assisted its members in providing the highest standard of professional care to their patients by sponsoring continuing education programs for doctors, advocating in local and state governments for programs and laws that represent patients' best interests, and providing information for the public. For more information, please visit http://www.visioncare.org/ or call 303-863-9778.

Some companies are taking advantage of the COVID-19 pandemic and asserting that their devices make it easy to conduct an eye exam at home. The Colorado Optometric Association, together with the American Optometric Association (AOA), warns that it is more important than ever to be aware of products that give the mistaken impression that their devices can substitute for a comprehensive eye examination or that they can shortcut getting a contact lens or eyeglasses prescription.

Related link: https://colorado.aoa.org/

Startup Designs Nasal Respirator to Protect Airways While Freeing the Mouth

WINTERS, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- Modern Mammoth Technologies, LLC, is announcing the launch of a unique nasal respirator to provide more protection to more people-especially the frontline heroes. Modern Mammoth is a startup founded by two veterinarians, Dr's Valerie Fournier and Alejandro Garcia.

Hero Mammoth is an air filtration device that can use a wide array of filters, including N95 and high MERV. This device is versatile, extraordinarily comfortable and most of all, it is unique in the fact that keeps your mouth free to communicate.

Their team conceptualized and designed a nose-focused respirator after one of the founders was exposed to wildfire smoke at the Camp Fire in 2018 while working as a volunteer veterinary responder.

Hero Mammoth uses anatomically focused design to integrate a nasal dilator and detachable respirator. This focused design means less filter material is needed, resulting in a more ecofriendly and economical solution.

"Right now, face masks are being reinvented in many different ways. Hero isn't designed to replace a face mask - it's something which can be used with a mask for an extra level of protection, or on its own. It's a whole different product," says Dr. Fournier.

After the 2018 California wildfire season, the effect of breathing in smoke and other contaminants became evident. Lingering cough, fatigue, and headaches were all common complaints.

"It was serendipity really. Previously, we had been working on a nasal dilator to help us breathe better while hiking and last year, while testing, we discovered the unique weight-bearing properties of this device. Now, it became our core technology and base to produce the nasal respirator," said Dr. Garcia.

Since early 2019, work on Hero nasal respirator and Silent Mammoth, the nose dilator, has plugged along. Then at the end of the year, tragedy in the form of SARS-COV2 struck.

Dr. Fournier, who also holds a degree in public health said, "Part of the veterinarians' oath is to protect the public health, and we are scaling our efforts to bring this to production as soon as possible."

Dr. Garcia agrees. "I want people to be able to go to work and feel protected. I want it to be affordable. I don't want them to be constrained to having to buy expensive filters through us, and wait for it to get there. If they only have 1900 filters-they can use that! I want people to feel safe. We can't go forward like this, really. We can't wear masks all day, all the time," says Dr Garcia.

The respirator is specially designed to be taken apart, cleaned, and reused. This lessens environmental impact, leading to less discard in the landfills.

The cartridges can be loaded with any filter material, and it only takes minimal skill with a pair of scissors. Simply cut a small strip to fit and wrap the inner cartridge. The external clip protects the filter material so it lasts longer and you don't have to touch it.

The facial gasket is soft foam with an internal stainless-steel structure and additional foam sealing strip around the edge. The user can bend the gasket and apply the sealing strip as best suits them, which leads to a better fit. Most users can tell if they have a gap and adjust the gasket to compensate.

This nose respirator also includes the option of a copper mesh insert to protect the filter material. Copper has been shown through extensive research to have broad antimicrobial qualities.

Thus far the project has been self-financed. To begin mass production they decided to reach out for help. Due to the current COVID-19 situation, many traditional avenues such as face to face networking aren't possible.

In these times, adaptability is key, which is why a Kickstarter campaign was decided on to get front line funding.

Modern Mammoth will be launching their product for presales on crowdfunding platform Kickstarter on May 19, 2020.

To learn more in the meantime, please see:
* https://www.heromammoth.com/
* https://www.facebook.com/ModernMammothTech
* https://www.linkedin.com/modernmammoth
* https://drive.google.com/drive/u/1/folders/1Voipvih3qC4BaNszh96esG8kUWO1vmzx

For questions, contact: info@silentmammoth.com

*IMAGE link for media: https://www.Send2Press.com/300dpi/20-0513s2p-hero-mammoth-diagram-300dpi.jpg

Modern Mammoth Technologies, LLC, is announcing the launch of a unique nasal respirator to provide more protection to more people-especially the frontline heroes. Modern Mammoth is a startup founded by two veterinarians, Dr's Valerie Fournier and Alejandro Garcia.

Related link: https://www.heromammoth.com/

Record Early Spine Fellows & Young Surgeon Enrollment for 10th Annual November Spine IEP Course

SAN DIEGO, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- Magnifi Group, Inc., announced today it is experiencing record early registration for its 10th Annual Spine IEP Fellows & Young Surgeons' Course (Spine Interactive Educational Program). The course will be conducted November 20-22 at The Fairmont Hotel, Austin, Texas.

A significant number of US Spine Fellowship Directors attribute the stepped-up early registration due to COVID-19.

Spine IEP Faculty member, Dr. R. Todd Allen, who serves as Associate Clinical Professor of Orthopaedic Surgery and Spine Surgery at the University of California, San Diego (UCSD) and Director of the University's Spine Fellowship program, said, now more than ever, the incoming Spine and Neuro Fellowship class of 2020-2021 will significantly benefit from the Spine IEP Course.

"Given the current pandemic, final-year Orthopaedic residents looking ahead to their spine fellowships, have not had the opportunity to take full advantage of their final residency year when it comes to surgical electives - as they relate to didactic spine work, labs and clinical training," Dr. Allen said. Dr. Allen added that even those schools offering a Chief Resident Rotation have been impacted.

The Spine IEP Fellows & Young Surgeons' Course will be limited to 50 attendees to accommodate a didactics rotation schedule of 45 tables hosted by medical device and biologics companies. Four cadaver labs will also be offered during the intense 21/2 day course.

The Spine IEP has been specifically developed to educate spine and neurosurgery Fellows and Young Surgeons on current topics related to the practice of spine and neurosurgery, as well as to assist attendees with the transition from academics to practicing surgeon. The classroom format for the course is highly interactive; all sessions conclude with question/answer sessions and panel discussions.

Laura McClain, Course Coordinator, said she anticipates registration fill up as early as July/August. "The upcoming course will represent the largest gathering ever of Spine Fellows and Young Surgeons for an educational event of this kind," McClain said. "Our sponsors also recognize that this course represents a significant opportunity to expose their latest techniques, products and treatments to the next-generation of spine and neuro surgeons," McClain added.

The Spine IEP Fellows & Young Surgeons' Course is led by Dr. Frank Phillips, Professor and Director, Division of Spine Surgery and Fellowship Co-Director, Spine Surgery at Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, Ill. To register: https://www.spine-iep.com/sfc/register.html

According to Magnifi data, an average of 70-80 spine Fellows enters the US market each year as practicing spine surgeons. Of these, 48-50 Fellows & Young Surgeons are expected to attend the upcoming course.

Magnifi Group, Inc. is a developer of an FDA-compliant eLearning platform for the medical device and biologics industries. The company also hosts the Spine IEP Live Fellows Course; the Lower Extremity IEP Live Fellows Course and the Hip and Knee IEP Live Fellows Course.

For Additional Information Contact:
Laura McClain: lmcclain@magnifigroup.com

Magnifi Group, Inc., announced today it is experiencing record early registration for its 10th Annual Spine IEP Fellows & Young Surgeons' Course (Spine Interactive Educational Program). The course will be conducted November 20-22 at The Fairmont Hotel, Austin, Texas.

Related link: http://www.magnifigroup.com/

Spodak Dental Group Offers Free Dental Treatment to All First Responders Who Are Helping Fight the Coronavirus Pandemic

DELRAY BEACH, Fla. /ScoopCloud/ -- Spodak Dental Group is offering free dental care for first responders in an effort to say Thank You for the work they're doing to treat local community members during the coronavirus pandemic. Any first responder (police, fire, EMS, hospital worker, medical doctor, nurse or support staff) who is experiencing dental pain is invited to make an appointment for a free dental exam, X-rays and diagnosis.

WHO - Spodak Dental Group ("SDG"), a comprehensive dental destination providing all general and specialty services in one convenient, state-of-the art, LEED Gold Certiﬁed facility.

WHEN - Monday through Saturday from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. from Monday, May 11 through Monday, June 8, 2020.

WHERE - Spodak Dental Group, 3911 W. Atlantic Ave., Delray Beach, Florida, 33445

WHY - "Our community first responders are tirelessly putting their life on the line fighting for the lives of our community members who are suffering from COVID-19. The last thing they should have to deal with is dental pain," said Dr. Craig Spodak, general dentist at Spodak Dental Group. "It's the least we can do to take care of those who are taking care of us, and we consider it part of our noble cause of making the world a better place through the power of compassion."

BOOK - Call or text (561) 303-2413 or email inform@spodakdental.com to make an appointment. All first responders who are experiencing dental pain are welcome to make an appointment.

ABOUT - For more information on Spodak Dental Group, please visit: http://www.spodakdental.com/.

About Spodak Dental:
The Spodak Dental Group, a 2017 Inc. 5000 honoree, has evolved to become South Florida's premier, comprehensive dental facility, and comprises a world-class association of dental professionals poised to provide full-service dental care second-to-none in both scope and skill. The Spodak Dental Group team includes General and Restorative Dentists, Endodontists, Periodontists, Board Certified Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons, Master Ceramic Artists and Anesthesiologists, as well as one of the nation's only in-office dental labs. Spodak Dental Group is located at 3911 W. Atlantic Ave. Call or text (561) 303-2413 or visit https://www.SpodakDental.com for more information.

MEDIA CONTACT:
Darien Davies
Director of Communications
(561) 303-2413
darien@spodakdental.com

Spodak Dental Group is offering free dental care for first responders in an effort to say Thank You for the work they're doing to treat local community members during the coronavirus pandemic. Any first responder (police, fire, EMS, hospital worker, medical doctor, nurse or support staff) who is experiencing dental pain is invited to make an appointment for a free dental exam, X-rays and diagnosis.

Related link: https://www.spodakdental.com/

Car Seat Mobility Device Born of Necessity

TOWSON, Md. /ScoopCloud/ -- Katherine Miles, creator of the Ruby Slipper Car Seat Cover, shares that for this product, which allows persons with limited mobility to enter and exit a car with ease, necessity was truly the mother of invention. Miles was faced with a common dilemma: how to help her aging parent stay active and living a full life.

Miles' mother-named Ruby-was a busy senior and always on the go, volunteering at a local hospital and other community organizations and enjoying shopping and eating out. She had no trouble getting in and out of the car, until injuries and other health conditions cropped up. Due to her lack of upper and lower body strength, and even with her daughter's help, Ruby struggled to enter and exit vehicles. She feared she might never get back to her active and fulfilling life.

Miles hated the thought of no longer being able to take her mother for errands, appointments and drives. Reducing the friction between her mother's clothes and the car seat, Miles quickly realized, would make it vastly easier for her mother to slide herself into the seat-or for a caregiver to do so.

She devised the Ruby Slipper, a deceptively simple product that is both affordable and easy to use. This two-layer nylon seat cover creates a unique sliding action that allows an individual to pivot smoothly into a comfortable sitting position.

"It was no longer difficult to get my mother into the car safely," said Miles, "and it did not take super powers to do!" Quickly realizing that this "swivel car seat" could help lots of other people, too, she patented her design in 2014.

Now, anyone with limited mobility, whether temporary or permanent, can find greater freedom with the Ruby Slipper, including those who are elderly, injured, disabled, recovering from surgery or experiencing upper or lower body muscle weakness. Miles noted that the market for the Ruby Slipper also includes caregivers, physicians, occupational therapists, physical therapists and Veterans Administration professionals.

To use the Ruby Slipper, the top layer of nylon fabric is rotated over the seating area toward the door to hang over the side of the seat. Then, the individual sits on the fabric, swivels into the car to place his or her feet on the floor, and slides back into the seat. (If help is needed, a caregiver can grasp the individual's legs and rotate them into the car.)

Lightweight and simple to install, the Ruby Slipper can be moved from car to car as needed. The Ruby Slipper fits virtually all passenger cars and trucks and works on both cloth and leather seats. The nylon fabric (red, black or gray) is rugged, comfortable and easy to care for.

About Ruby Slipper, LLC

Made entirely in America, the Ruby Slipper Car Seat Cover can be purchased online at http://www.rubyslippercarseatcover.com/ (via PayPal) or by calling 877-855-3065. The cost is $79.95 plus $11.95 shipping. The Ruby Slipper comes with a 30-day money back guarantee.

Questions can be directed to http://www.rubyslippercarseatcover.com/contact or 877-855-3065. Ruby Slipper, LLC is located at P.O. Box 42430, 808 Gleneagles Ct., Towson, MD 21284.

VIDEO: The Story of the Ruby Slipper Car Seat Cover, https://youtu.be/P9MCRFYsbdg

PHOTO link for media: https://www.Send2Press.com/300dpi/20-0511s2p-ruby-slipper-cover-black-300dpi.jpg

Katherine Miles, creator of the Ruby Slipper Car Seat Cover, shares that for this product, which allows persons with limited mobility to enter and exit a car with ease, necessity was truly the mother of invention. Miles was faced with a common dilemma: how to help her aging parent stay active and living a full life.

Related link: https://www.rubyslippercarseatcover.com/

David and Laura Merage Foundation Donates 500 Toy Boxes to Children of Healthcare Workers

DENVER, Colo. /ScoopCloud/ -- The David and Laura Merage Foundation launched the Merage Mini Heroes project to bring joy to the children of courageous frontline healthcare workers who are putting in extraordinarily long hours away from their families. Working in partnership with Timbuk Toys and several other local businesses, the foundation created 500 age-appropriate toy boxes that were gifted to parents at St. Joseph's Hospital and Denver Health.

"Our intention is to spark a bit of joy with these toys, and quite simply show these little ones how grateful we are that they are sharing their families with Coloradans in need," stated Sue Renner, Vice President of Philanthropy at the David and Laura Merage Foundation.

In honor of National Nurses Week, the foundation team delivered 500 boxes to the medical and non-medical staff at the two local hospitals. The hospitals then distributed these boxes for staff to pick up, noting the delight that their staff and the children showed when receiving these boxes.

"The Merage Little Heroes project is a humongous success! It is generating lots of excitement and overwhelming joy, and we are so thankful that David, Laura and their organization provided us with this act of kindness," responded Jamie Smith, CEO at St. Joseph Hospital.

This initiative exemplifies the deep commitment that David and Laura Merage have for early childhood education. In addition to Merage Mini Heroes, the David and Laura Merage Foundation has launched two nationwide programs focused on increasing high-quality care and education, Early Learning Ventures (ELV) and CareForAllChildren. Since its founding in 2008, ELV has impacted over 41,000 children and served 550 childcare programs around the U.S.

The CareForAllChildren campaign is paving the way for working parents and advocates to call on presidential candidates to address the childcare crisis. Each of these initiatives aims at supporting our youngest learners, families, and another set of heroes, childcare providers.

The Merage Mini Heroes initiative is unique in providing the opportunity to lift the spirts of our brave parents and their children during this challenging time. If additional hospitals and foundations are looking to participate or expand the current giving program, please contact Catharina Hughey, Operations Specialist, chughey@merage.org.

Learn more: https://www.merage.org/

PHOTO link for media: https://www.Send2Press.com/300dpi/20-0508s2p-merage-heroes-300dpi.jpg

LOGO link for media: https://www.Send2Press.com/300dpi/20-0508-mmh-box-sticker-300dpi.jpg

The David and Laura Merage Foundation launched the Merage Mini Heroes project to bring joy to the children of courageous frontline healthcare workers who are putting in extraordinarily long hours away from their families. Working in partnership with Timbuk Toys and several other local businesses, the foundation created 500 age-appropriate toy boxes that were gifted to parents at St. Joseph's Hospital and Denver Health.

Related link: https://www.merage.org/

National STOP THE BLEED® Day is May 21, 2020

PALMER, Pa. /ScoopCloud/ -- STOP THE BLEED® is an important public health campaign aimed at directly saving lives-through an effort to increase public awareness and encourage people and organizations across the United States to get trained with life-saving STOP THE BLEED® techniques so they can be ready to take action and stop everyday instances of life-threatening bleeding in their homes and communities.

The National STOP THE BLEED® Day project engages the public to join this fast-growing campaign so more lives can be saved.

Experts say it takes between:
* 3 - 5 minutes to die from blood loss.
* 7 - 10 minutes, on average, for EMS to arrive.

Why it Matters

National STOP THE BLEED® Day is critically important because incidents, like mass shootings or natural disasters, along with everyday accidents, whether on the playground, the freeway, or in the kitchen, could expose people to bleeding out. It's imperative that people become aware of this, because in many cases, death from blood loss is preventable. Properly trained, anyone can STOP THE BLEED® until professional help arrives.

Take Action Now

National STOP THE BLEED® Day is encouraging individuals to Get Trained, Get Kits, and Get Involved. At NationalStopTheBleedDay.org, individuals can learn about taking a STOP THE BLEED® class. The website also shares information about how to secure STOP THE BLEED® kits for your home or organization. Remember, 35% of pre-hospital deaths are due to blood loss, and traumatic injury is the leading cause of death for people below the age of 46.

Meet Lacey Newman

Wife, Mother, 2017 Las Vegas Shooting Survivor and STOP THE BLEED® Ambassador:

Shot in both of her legs, with only minutes to live, Lacey Newman's best friend Nicole applied pressure to Lacey's wounds, saving her life. Lacey is pleased to champion the STOP THE BLEED® initiative by telling her story and encouraging the public to take a STOP THE BLEED® class to learn the life-saving techniques and be equipped to save a life if ever needed. She stars in STOP THE BLEED's Public Service Announcement (PSA), which is available for broadcast.

One version of the PSA is viewable here: https://vimeo.com/328403899. Lacey Newman is available to speak about STOP THE BLEED® and how life-saving techniques can play an instrumental role in saving lives.

Other prominent STOP THE BLEED® experts and spokespersons across the United States are available to speak about this important topic, including Dr. Matthew Levy, Chair of Stop the Bleed Coalition, a nonprofit organization that educates and advocates for the importance of bleeding control training and education. Dr. Levy is also board certified in Emergency Medicine and subspecialty certified in Emergency Medical Services. Dr. Levy is regarded for his expertise in and out of the hospital, in disaster and tactical medicine, and the training of EMS personnel.

Dr. Matthew Neal is also a prominent STOP THE BLEED® spokesperson. He is the Roberta G. Simmons Assistant Professor of Surgery and Critical Care Medicine at the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, a celebrated trauma surgeon and research scientist who teaches STOP THE BLEED® seminars, and a member of the American College of Surgeons. Dr. Neal runs his own laboratory and recently received a grant funded by the Department of Defense to study treatments for types of bleeding that do not respond to compression. As a public advocate for National STOP THE BLEED® Day, Dr. Neal has appeared on the Dr. Oz Show and in the The New Yorker article, Turning Bystanders into First Responders.

National Grassroots Initiatives

National STOP THE BLEED® Day initiatives have been launched nation-wide to raise awareness and engage the public. One is the 2020 STOP THE BLEED® Scholarship Program - offering high school students an opportunity to write an essay or make a video about STOP THE BLEED® - with the top prize being scholarship money and STOP THE BLEED® kits for their high school. Another program is the STOP THE BLEED® Training Kit Grant program. To train millions of citizens, the proper training equipment needs to be utilized - equipment that can be challenging for some organizations to afford. The Training Kit Grant program will award training kits to organizations that will make a significant impact in their communities by teaching the hands-on, American College of Surgeons, STOP THE BLEED® course.

The 2020 STOP THE BLEED® Scholarship Program recipients and the STOP THE BLEED® Training Kit Grant program awardees will be announced on National STOP THE BLEED® Day.

Additionally, due to the COVID-19 crisis, the National STOP THE BLEED® Day project has launched STOP THE BLEED® at Home - a set of actions people can take while sheltering at home. Learn more: https://nationalstopthebleedday.org/stop-the-bleed-covid19/#!/STBhome

Lastly, the campaign is seeking individuals to share their STOP THE BLEED® experiences by sending their stories to community@nationalstopthebleedday.org.

STOP THE BLEED® Day is a national public health initiative with support across public and private sector organizations and individuals committed to saving lives.

National STOP THE BLEED® Day is supported by over 100 organizations, including the following:
* United States Department of Defense
* American College of Surgeons
* United States Department of Homeland Security
* Stop the Bleed Coalition
* The American Red Cross

To learn more about National STOP THE BLEED® Day, book an interview with a spokesperson, or inquire about a PSA, please contact Ed Miller at community@nationalstopthebleedday.org or 610-428-8851.

You can also follow the campaign on social media at #NSTBD20 and #STOPTHEBLEED.

Learn more: https://nationalstopthebleedday.org/

STOP THE BLEED® is an important public health campaign aimed at directly saving lives-through an effort to increase public awareness and encourage people and organizations across the United States to get trained with life-saving STOP THE BLEED techniques so they can be ready to take action and stop everyday instances of life-threatening bleeding in their homes and communities.

Related link: https://nationalstopthebleedday.org/

Charleston Mom Receives Brand New Smile for Mother’s Day

CHARLESTON, S.C. /ScoopCloud/ -- Just in time for Mother's Day, Charleston Oral and Facial Surgery has helped one Charleston-area woman smile again. Due to years of decay, 31-year old Chelsea Carter was referred to the practice by her dentist, Dr. Kent Griffin, as a prime candidate for guided full-arch dental implants.

As a child, Chelsea wasn't taught about oral hygiene; in fact, she didn't have a toothbrush. The result was a smile Chelsea made a point to cover with her hand when she laughed. She became used to looking away or grinning without showing teeth.

"It definitely brought my confidence down a lot," said Chelsea. "I don't feel beautiful as a mother, I don't feel beautiful as a wife."

Enter Charleston Oral and Facial Surgery and Dr. Edward R. Strauss, who was approached by Chelsea's dentist. Chelsea met Dr. Strauss at their Summerville-Ingleside location for a preliminary meeting during which he told her the good news: The dental-implant procedure would be entirely free of charge.

"Chelsea's story of being a young wife and mother moved us and we wanted to help restore her smile and her confidence," said Edward R. Strauss, DMD, MD.

"We use cutting-edge digital technology to eliminate the guesswork in the full-arch implant procedure, so we knew she would have an absolutely perfect result."

Dr. Strauss utilized the GM system by Neodent, a new generation of implant systems that boasts high-level engineering. The surgery went seamlessly, and when Chelsea woke up, she had a brand new smile.

"Now I can look at people and be confident...it definitely boosted my self-esteem a lot," Chelsea said. "They turned me into a confident, strong woman that I knew I was always meant to be for my kids."

Charleston Oral and Facial Surgery is committed to pro bono cases and has remained open during the COVID-19 crisis to treat emergent dental cases. With six Lowcountry-area locations, they are open and ready to serve the people of Charleston with both in-person and virtual appointments.

Learn more: https://www.charlestonoralandfacialsurgery.com/

VIDEO (YouTube): https://youtu.be/oHQ8ZfSQ4Pk

Media Contact:
Stacey Kole | Branded Pros
stacey@brandedpros.com
480.221.5818

Just in time for Mother's Day, Charleston Oral and Facial Surgery has helped one Charleston-area woman smile again. Due to years of decay, 31-year old Chelsea Carter was referred to the practice by her dentist, Dr. Kent Griffin, as a prime candidate for guided full-arch dental implants.

CareSight Addresses the Need for Reliable And Secure Vocera Voice Communications During The COVID-19 Crisis

WESTPORT, Conn. /ScoopCloud/ -- CareSight is excited to offer two custom headsets, suitable for use with all B2000, B3000, and B3000N Vocera voice badges, that easily allow healthcare personnel to combine hands-free and private conversations with Vocera.

We developed our unique line of Vocera-friendly headsets with a deep understanding of our hospital customers' high-noise environments and privacy-sensitive situations. Comfortable, ergonomic, and featuring the perfect cord length, these affordable solutions ensure clear, private communications-even in the noisiest environments. CareSight's 13-inch cord single earbud headsets and 20-inch cord over-the-ear C-ring headsets come with a 30-day warranty and are compatible with other 2.5mm voice devices.

"Vocera voice is an essential part of Northern Westchester Hospital's focus on exceptional patient experience. Reducing noise and ensuring privacy is at the core of all of our communication initiatives. Headsets have been part of our Vocera strategy for many years. We worked with the CareSight team to develop a solution that staff can wear comfortably for an entire shift and that delivered a high-fidelity voice experience," says George Weldon, Administrative Director, Ambulatory Surgery, POS--Operating Room at Northern Westchester Hospital.

To learn more, visit https://voceraheadsets.com/.

ABOUT CARESIGHT

CareSight's team has deployed and supported Vocera voice since 2003 and has provided custom Vocera-specific headset solutions to customers since 2009-including whole hospital mandatory headset initiatives. The CareSight analytics platform is often deployed as part of comprehensive noise reduction initiatives. Headsets provide our customers with another tool to abate noise and reinforce a quieter hospital environment.

First deployed in 2012 as part of T2 Technical Services' work supporting clinical communications deployments, CareSight became its own dedicated company in 2016. CareSight integrates and unifies data from patient management data systems, nurse call systems, patient monitoring, and real-time location devices to provide visibility and insight into patient care operations. By combining an experienced team with a comprehensive, multi-source view of the alarm activity in hospital environments, CareSight enables hospitals to confidently execute data-driven improvements.

To learn more, visit https://voceraheadsets.com/.

Vocera(R) is a trademark of Vocera Communications, Inc., registered in the United States and other jurisdictions. CareSight, LLC is an independent service provider and is not part of Vocera Communications, Inc.

CareSight is excited to offer two custom headsets, suitable for use with all B2000, B3000, and B3000N Vocera voice badges, that easily allow healthcare personnel to combine hands-free and private conversations with Vocera.

Related link: https://voceraheadsets.com/

Jocelyn Keegan Selected for New HITAC Task Force Focused on Intersection of Clinical and Administrative Data (ICAD)

HOLLYWOOD, Fla. /ScoopCloud/ -- Today, Point-of-Care Partners announced the appointment of Jocelyn Keegan to the Intersection of Clinical and Administrative Data (ICAD) Task Force. ICAD was formed by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services' Office of the National Coordinator for Health Information Technology-administered Health Information Technology Advisory Committee (HITAC).

The ICAD was created to advance the merging of clinical and administrative data. The task force will focus its initial efforts on advancing industry use of electronic prior authorization (ePA), supporting work underway and leveraging existing information from HITAC and the National Committee on Vital and Health Statistics' (NCVHS) prior authorization hearings.

Keegan, a senior health information technology consultant with Point-of-Care Partners (POCP), is a Task Group lead of Pharmacy ePA at the National Council for Prescription Drug Programs (NCPDP), former Task Group lead of Specialty Pharmacy Benefit Identification at NCPDP and leads POCP's team in support of ONC FAST (FHIR at Scale Taskforce). Her work cuts across key regulatory and standards organizations; Health Level Seven International (HL7(R)), X12, NCPDP, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), and ONC. She currently serves as Program Manager for HL7 Da Vinci, a Payer/Provider led initiative to leverage HL7 FHIR(R) to exchange critical data required for Value Based Care contracts.

"It is critical to bring together industry investment in both clinical and administrative transactions. ICAD will serve a vital role in addressing gaps that exist due to the diverse standards and systems in play across pharmacy and medical prior authorization. As one of the only people in health IT with hands-on involvement in the rollout of new prior authorization tools across all major standards, Jocelyn is uniquely qualified to help ICAD bring together disparate clinical and administrative data sets," said Tony Schueth, CEO and Managing Partner of Point-of-Care Partners.

Keegan adds, "We are at an inflection point with the industry's move to value-based care and the evolution of available standards to create transparency and synthesize payer/provider data exchange to remove, reduce and streamline complex, often burdensome workflows like those that exist today for prior authorizations. I look forward to helping to drive forward industry and contribute to ICAD's mission in a meaningful way."

ICAD's goal is to produce information and considerations related to the merging of clinical and administrative data, its transport structures, and rules and protections for ePA. The task force's initial recommendations are expected to be issued this fall. Weekly meeting materials and transcripts are available on HealthIT.gov - https://www.healthit.gov/hitac/meetings/2781.

About Point-of-Care Partners

Point-of-Care Partners is a health IT management consulting firm with in-depth expertise in ePrescribing, eMedication management, health information exchange, population health management and multi-stakeholder initiatives. To learn more about how Point-of-Care Partners can help your company improve prior authorization workflows, contact info@pocp.com.

Learn more at: https://www.pocp.com/

Related Links: ICAD Meeting Minutes - https://www.healthit.gov/hitac/meetings/2781.

*PHOTO link for media: https://www.Send2Press.com/300dpi/20-0505s2p-Jocelyn Keegan-300dpi.jpg
*Photo caption: Jocelyn Keegan.

Today, Point-of-Care Partners announced the appointment of Jocelyn Keegan to the Intersection of Clinical and Administrative Data (ICAD) Task Force. ICAD was formed by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services' Office of the National Coordinator for Health Information Technology-administered Health Information Technology Advisory Committee (HITAC)

Related link: https://www.pocp.com/

The Only COVID-19 Initiative that Brings Self-Care to Frontliners While in Action

SACRAMENTO, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- On National Nurses Day, the Sufi Psychology Association ("SPA"), through its "Caring for Our Caregivers" COVID-19 initiative, will provide direct access to hours of self-care and meditation programs to help bring solace to healthcare professionals fighting on the frontlines of this pandemic. The tablets that carry these much needed programs will be donated to hospitals across eight states including California and Illinois.

The Caring for Our Caregivers initiative gives these frontline heroes access to stress relieving techniques. The program donates disposable headsets and tablets, pre-loaded with meditation, visualization, deep breathing, and other stress reducing videos to hospitals so that healthcare professionals can access the tools they need during these trying times. Currently, the program has an extensive and growing waitlist of hospitals. Therefore, they are asking for donations of tablets and/or disposable headsets to help facilitate the demand.

The initiative was started because, "Burnout is a serious problem. It affects you physically, psychologically, socially, and spiritually. It was already on the rise for healthcare workers pre-COVID and these workers are known for putting others first and their own needs last (if at all)," says Sufi Psychology Association founder, Dr. Lynn Wilcox. "Now, as they are working tirelessly to protect us, the Sufi Psychology Association wants to make sure they have the tools to take care of themselves as well, and aren't left drained and with a slew of other issues post-COVID."

The Sufi Psychology Association is a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit organization that focuses on utilizing the principles of Sufism in Psychology.

For more information, please visit https://www.caring4ourcaregivers.org/

On National Nurses Day, the Sufi Psychology Association ("SPA"), through its "Caring for Our Caregivers" COVID-19 initiative, will provide direct access to hours of self-care and meditation programs to help bring solace to healthcare professionals fighting on the frontlines of this pandemic.

Related link: https://www.caring4ourcaregivers.org/

Costa Dentistry Responds to Pandemic with Advanced Safety Protocols

BRAMBLETON, Va. /ScoopCloud/ -- Costa Dentistry is re-opening our doors on Tuesday, May 5, 2020 after implementing strict new safety protocols and state of the art technology.

Our award-winning dental practice was closed for more than six weeks after Virginia Governor Ralph Northam shut down non-essential businesses. Now that Gov. Northam has given dentists the green-light to re-open, Costa Dentistry is sparing no expense to set the tone for other businesses and to protect our staff and patients.

All Costa Dentistry employees were tested for COVID-19 before returning to work and each location was equipped with FDA approved, NASA endorsed Air Scrubber filters directly into the HVAC ducts. AirDoctor standalone air filters were placed in every room of the practice and a new piece of suctioning equipment called Isolite will be used on all patients to reduce over 90% of airborne dental aerosols.

Patients will be asked to check-in for their appointments through a "curbside waiting room" where they will remain in their car until they are ready to be escorted to their treatment suite. Hand sanitizer and a prescription mouth rinse will be required before any appointment can begin.

Dr. Shane Costa, owner of Costa Dentistry stated "We have taken every possible precaution to ensure that we are providing a safe space for dental care. No stone was left unturned when we created our new safety protocols."

Costa Dentistry is an award-winning, patient-focused dental practice in Brambleton and Great Falls, Virginia. Learn more at: https://www.costasmiles.com/

If you would like more information about this topic, please call Charlotte Lowe at (703) 389-3349 or email at charlottelowe@costasmiles.com

*VIDEO (YouTube): https://youtu.be/oQz_6IKzkKo

Costa Dentistry is re-opening our doors on Tuesday, May 5, 2020 after implementing strict new safety protocols and state of the art technology.

Related link: https://www.costasmiles.com/

Dr. Kawa of Discover Chiropractic Announces Revolutionary Technology

BRICK, N.J. /ScoopCloud/ -- Dr. Kawa, a local chiropractor serving his community for the last 29 years, would like to announce that his office has recently incorporated the use of the Sigma G2 computerized spinal analysis and adjusting instrument.

Spine related pain conditions continue to be some of the costliest conditions in the U.S. In fact, according to a Journal of the American Medical Association report, low back and neck pain are the 3rd most costly conditions resulting in almost $90 billion in healthcare expenditures.

Dr. Kawa, one of Brick's top rated chiropractors, believes that this instrument is essential to the function-based chiropractic approach. Discover Chiropractic is not only dedicated to making their patients feel great, but also getting to the source of your condition. The Sigma G2 will play a big role in correcting spinal disfunction.

The Sigma G2 is an adjustment instrument that percusses through various points in the body and alerts your natural response systems to disfunction in that area. Your body can react and begin to correct any misalignment or malfunction in that targeted area.

According to Dr. Christopher Kawa, a chiropractor in Brick, N.J. for 29 years, "The reason chiropractic is so effective is that before patients are given exercises and stretches, chiropractors work to ensure that all the joints in their patient's spines are moving correctly. This is something that physical therapists are not trained to do."

In fact, says Dr. Kawa, "Chiropractors are experts in restoring proper motion patterns in the spine 'first,' so that the nervous system can then change the way it's 'holding' the body in alignment. This is crucial to long-term healing and thus reducing costs of care. The revolutionary Sigma G2 is here to help treat the people of Brick."

About Discover Chiropractic:

Dr. Kawa founded Discover Chiropractic in 1992 right in the heart of his hometown Brick, New Jersey. Dr. Kawa and his team have been providing patients with careful and precise treatment and their core philosophy is to help people live happier and healthier lives. To book a new patient appointment with Dr. Kawa, please click here - http://chiropractorbricknj.com/index.php/new-patients/

Dr. Kawa, a local chiropractor serving his community for the last 29 years, would like to announce that his office has recently incorporated the use of the Sigma G2 computerized spinal analysis and adjusting instrument.

Related link: http://chiropractorbricknj.com/

In-Home Care Company Implements Innovative OversightMD Inc. Solution to Protect Caregivers and Clients During COVID-19 Pandemic

SAN DIEGO, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- ComForCare Home Care North County San Diego, a leading provider of in-home care services, has partnered with OverSightMD Inc., the leader in employee & patient population oversight, to deliver daily employee and patient wellness screenings that can help to detect symptoms of COVID-19 and other communicable disease infections.

Through daily wellness checks and reporting, ComForCare increases staff and patient protection efforts beyond general CDC guidelines to help curtail the spread of the novel coronavirus.

"Our team is focused on mitigating the risks of potential exposures to the clients that entrust their health and well-being to us," says Scott Samuels, President of ComForCare North County. "Through OverSightMD, our staffing coordinators now have new tools and protocols to ensure the safety our caregivers and the clients that are under our care."

OverSightMD's Connected Care enables caregivers and their clients to be monitored through a single dashboard that is updated with real-time data that is provided via any internet-enabled device. With real-time data and analytics at their fingertips, health care managers can make quick staffing changes that can proactively limit exposures whether an employee or patient has symptoms typically indicative of a COVID-19, or has been in contact with someone who subsequently displayed symptoms or tested positive.

"Many care organizations are still being reactive in their approach to responding to potential COVID-19 exposures, which places vulnerable patient populations into high-risk environments," said Mark Godwin, CEO of OverSightMD. "Risk can be drastically reduced and possibly eliminated altogether through daily screenings and regular reporting by all employees." By implementing OverSightMD Connected Care, ComForCare Home Care is proactively working to respond to this crisis with new solutions and protocols that place the highest value on employees and clients' lives."

ComForCare North County San Diego (https://ncsandiego.comforcare.com), founded in 2005 and headquartered in Vista, California, is a state-licensed home care agency and home health agency that serves seniors and disabled individuals of all ages. Its team of experienced, carefully selected and trained caregivers provide industry-leading in-home care to help clients live their best life possible.

OverSightMD (https://oversightmd.com/) formed in 2013 is the national leader in population oversight and patient-driven care management. The OverSightMD cloud platform empowers hospitals, post-acute providers, and in-home care companies to function as a proactive healthcare delivery system to reduce hospital readmissions and improve outcomes. OverSightMD's continuous population management of employees and clients facilitates the seamless exchange of relevant health and wellness data that enables providers to deliver timely, effective care, and team management through real-time dashboards, analytics, and comprehensive tracking tools.

ComForCare Home Care North County San Diego, a leading provider of in-home care services, has partnered with OverSightMD Inc., the leader in employee & patient population oversight, to deliver daily employee and patient wellness screenings that can help to detect symptoms of COVID-19 and other communicable disease infections.

Related link: https://oversightmd.com

TherapyTopia Launches COVID-19 Thrive Campaign to Support Laid Off Americans

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. /ScoopCloud/ -- TherapyTopia is a social enterprise that offers "Workplace Mental Wellness Solutions." To address the needs of so many out-of-work Americans, the organization pivoted its business model to partner with companies and individuals to help provide free virtual mental health and career coaching services to Americans in a time when they need it most. TherapyTopia's goal is to help 1 million Americans re-enter the workforce through its COVID-19 Thrive Campaign.

To support this mission, the organization has designed a sponsorship structure that, at minimum, supports three types of individuals - a laid-off worker, a virtual therapist, and a support staff member - for six months.

"In essence, TherapyTopia's COVID-19 Thrive Campaign is creating two jobs (a virtual therapist and a support staff member) who are helping a third person to get back on their feet," Lequita Brooks, founder and CEO of TherapyTopia, says. "It's an all-round, win-win situation."

Brooks explains that TherapyTopia is fusing two services that don't typically go together - outplacement services and employee assistance programs, a solution she calls "Outplacement Mental Wellness Services."

"Like everyone else, we're evolving to meet new workplace demands in uncertain times," Brooks says. "Company sponsorships are the ideal way for businesses to help laid-off employees re-enter the workforce when the time is right."

There are different sponsorship levels available, but all of them will include six months of virtual coaching support via a HIPAA-compliant platform; unlimited text support; an individualized COVID-19 Thrive Plan; solution-focused strategies; and referrals for additional services as needed.

"There's really a way for any individual, philanthropist, or company to get involved," Brooks says. "There are volunteer positions, individual benefactors, and company sponsorship opportunities available."

For more information about TherapyTopia's COVID-19 Thrive Campaign: https://therapytopia.com/covid-19-thrive/

About TherapyTopia

Founded in 2012, TherapyTopia is a social enterprise that specializes in "Workplace Mental Wellness Solutions" with a team of highly-skilled, licensed, behavioral health therapists who offer practical life management strategies via teletherapy and in-person (upon request).

Lequita Brooks, TherapyTopia's founder and CEO, holds a Master of Social Work (MSW) from Florida State University and is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. Brooks has extensive experience as a social worker working with Employee Assistance Programs and in hospice care as well as nearly seven years of experience with the Department of Veterans Affairs Health Care for Homeless Veterans Program. She's been interviewed on ABC's "First Coast News", featured in articles in "Black Enterprise" magazine and Jacksonville's "Your Health", and presented for the Jacksonville Chapter of the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM Jacksonville).

Learn more: https://therapytopia.com/

*LOGO link for media: https://www.send2press.com/300dpi/20-0429s2p-therapytopia-logo-300dpi.jpg

MEDIA CONTACT:
Kara Pound
of Old City Public Relations
+1-386-237-4500
kara@oldcitypr.com

TherapyTopia is a social enterprise that offers "Workplace Mental Wellness Solutions." To address the needs of so many out-of-work Americans, the organization pivoted its business model to partner with companies and individuals to help provide free virtual mental health and career coaching services.

Related link: https://therapytopia.com/

Healthcare Executive SHEILA CHERFILUS-MCCORMICK, J.D. Qualifies for the August Democratic Primary against Incumbent Alcee Hastings

MIRAMAR, Fla. /ScoopCloud/ -- Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick, J.D., Democratic candidate for Florida's 20th Congressional District announces she has qualified for the upcoming Democratic Primary against Incumbent Alcee Hastings who is in his 3rd year of aggressive treatment for late stage pancreatic cancer. Mrs. McCormick is the CEO of Trinity Healthcare Services, a home health company with offices in Broward and Palm Beach Counties.

"We will be running a smart, grassroots campaign that puts the people's needs at the forefront," said campaign manager Willis Howard, a legend in South Florida politics and the strategic consultant instrumental in the surprise blow out win for the Andrew Gillum campaign in the 2018 August Democratic primary for Governor. The election date is August 18, 2020.

"We need a leader who will show up to work every day with the energy to fight for us in Washington. Mr. Hastings has missed key votes in Congress including the recent stimulus program which our community is desperate need of and has not been seen in the district in months. Our community is one of the hardest impacted by the Coronavirus in Florida," explained Mrs. McCormick on the need for new leadership in the district.

"Sheila McCormick is definitely the future of the Democratic Party," exclaimed Willis Howard.

The McCormick campaign has been focused for months establishing a lasting presence in the community and hosted various virtual town halls, activist briefings, and food and face mask distributions. The results of months of hard work are demonstrated after successfully outraising the incumbent in the first quarter reporting period.

"Members of the community have bombarded my campaign seeking help in applying for the Payroll Protection Program, as minority and women-owned small businesses have been largely denied relief. As a member of Congress, I will fight to ensure that federal programs are required to be equitable and focused on helping Main Street, instead of funding more Wall Street bailouts," concluded Mrs. McCormick.

About Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick, J.D.

Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick, J.D. is an executive, philanthropist, mother, wife, and healthcare advocate. Sheila has invested 20 years in building a healthcare company for the growing number of Americans who need access to quality healthcare. She is also an active voice on Capitol Hill advocating for positive Healthcare Reform. As the innovative CEO, she leads a small business with over 500 employees providing home-based continued healthcare, trains families on how to care for their loved ones, and provides vocational training in the medical field.

Sheila has seen first-hand the hardship our families are experiencing without access to quality healthcare. She is the Committee Woman for the Women's Leadership Committee of the Haitian American Chamber of Commerce and a member of the Autism Speaks Grassroots Advocacy Network.

For more information or inquiries, visit her website at: https://www.SheilaforCongress.com

Follow on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SheilaforCongress

Follow on Instagram: @SheilaforCongress - https://www.instagram.com/SheilaforCongress

Follow on Twitter: @Sheila4Congress - https://www.twitter.com/SheilaforCongress

*Photo link for media: https://www.Send2Press.com/300dpi/20-0428s2p-sc-McCormick-300dpi.jpg
*Photo Caption: Candidate Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick, JD.

About Florida's 20th Congressional District

Florida's 20th congressional district is located in southeast Florida's Broward and Palm Beach counties. The district includes most of the majority-black precincts in and around Fort Lauderdale and West Palm Beach. It also includes a vast area inland to the southeastern shores of Lake Okeechobee, including the community of Belle Glade, where Florida's sugar cultivation and Everglades restoration efforts are both centered.

Paid for by Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick for Congress, Inc.

Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick, J.D., Democratic candidate for Florida's 20th Congressional District announces she has qualified for the upcoming Democratic Primary against Incumbent Alcee Hastings who is in his 3rd year of aggressive treatment for late stage pancreatic cancer. Mrs. McCormick is the CEO of Trinity Healthcare Services, a home health company with offices in Broward and Palm Beach Counties.

Related link: https://www.SheilaforCongress.com

Unlikely North Carolina Companies Partner Together to Produce Reusable Masks

RALEIGH, N.C. /ScoopCloud/ -- EHOP Health(R), a chronic disease reversal company headquartered in Apex, NC and Harriss & Covington, a hosiery mill headquartered in High Point, NC, recently delivered reusable face masks to customers across North Carolina and the United States. The first business to receive the reusable masks was Weaver Street Market.

This unlikely partnership between health coaching, manufacturing, and grocery store firms produced the new face mask brand, Easy Masks(TM).

These non-medical face masks serve the needs of employees, customers, families, and individuals who need protection for their essential trips.

"I became convinced that fabric masks are a useful tool in minimizing exposure dose to viral particles," said William (B.J.) Lawson, MD and CEO of EHOP Health. "Our first client, and a fifth-generation family business that has been knitting socks in High Point, North Carolina for 100 years, instantly came to my mind as having the potential to create a comfortable, reusable facemask."

Harriss & Covington's Co-President, Tyler Covington had just been ordered to shut down his manufacturing plant's non-essential activities due to the COVID-19 health pandemic. After speaking with Lawson, he recruited a small research and development team to prototype several face masks. "I wanted to help our state, and our country, safely get back to work," said Covington. "I believed we could find a solution for the growing demand of reusable face masks and through collaboration we have a face mask for the everyday essential needs."

Thanks to iterative feedback from associates of Weaver Street Market, another EHOP Health Client, the team quickly found out what features were required for a mask comfortable enough for all-day wear. "This has been a godsend," stated Ruffin Slater General Manager, Weaver Street Market. "We needed a protective mask to offer to our frontline employees and customers, and we wanted a sustainable and environmentally friendly solution which Easy Masks delivers."

About Easy Masks(TM)

Easy Masks offers a reusable, washable face mask knitted by a 5th generation mill in North Carolina. For more information about Easy Masks, visit https://easymasks.com/. Follow the company on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/easymasks.

About Harriss & Covington

Harriss & Covington was founded in 1920 in High Point, North Carolina.

For more information about Harriss & Covington, visit http://www.harrissandcov.com/. With the fifth generation of the founders helming the operation and 250 employees strong, Harriss & Covington proudly thrives in the same town where it launched nearly a century ago, delivering high-quality performance socks to some of the most recognized brands in the world including Smartwool, Feetures, allbirds, Sock Club, Kane 11, Johnston & Murphy, and Ace & Everett.

About Weaver Street Market

Weaver Street Market is a co-op market created for the community, by the community. We sustain healthy communities together - through the goods that we sell and the good that we do. Weaver Street Market carefully selects high-quality products from sources we trust. Our partners include more than 100 local and independent food producers.

Founded in 1988, Weaver Street Market is owned by 22,000 consumer owners and 230 worker owners. We operate downtown stores in Carrboro, Chapel Hill's Southern Village, Hillsborough and Raleigh, as well as a Food House in Hillsborough that provides fresh deli, bakery, and meat products to its stores twice each day. Learn more at https://www.weaverstreetmarket.coop/.

About EHOP Health(TM)

EHOP Health helps employees reverse chronic disease and feel their best. It's flagship program, Journey 2 Health(TM), offers personalized health coaching services and a science-based online curriculum. Clients lower healthcare costs while investing into their people and culture throughout the chronic disease reversal program.

Although the majority of Americans suffer from at least one chronic disease, conditions such as diabetes, metabolic syndrome, hypertension and obesity can be reversible. Co-founders William (B.J.) Lawson, MD and Joe Jenkins, MD JD launched EHOP Health and the Journey 2 Health solution in 2016 after building a program and team to focus on disease reversal rather than disease management and compliance.

For more information about EHOP Health, visit https://www.ehophealth.com/.

Follow the company on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/ehop-health/.

IMAGE LINKS FOR MEDIA:
* Easy Mask Logo: https://ln2.sync.com/dl/749a491a0/usrmsvve-jxdnj2bg-tzhbx3jq-bd3q6m5e
* Face Mask Image: https://ln2.sync.com/dl/31df94160/3ukizpsp-gitp5vxz-hf4shzvz-kixdkqnq

EHOP Health, a chronic disease reversal company headquartered in Apex, NC and Harriss & Covington, a hosiery mill headquartered in High Point, NC, recently delivered reusable face masks to customers across North Carolina and the United States. The first business to receive the Easy Masks reusable masks was Weaver Street Market.

Related link: https://easymasks.com/

WIC is Serving Families in Need

SACRAMENTO, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- The Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) is considered an essential service. WIC staff in California are serving families during the COVID-19 pandemic, including families who never before received benefits, but are now in need of assistance.

Following Governor Newsom's Executive Order on March 30, the California Department of Public Health WIC Program has been implementing emergency protocols to provide benefits and expand the approved WIC food list to best serve families while protecting the health and safety of WIC participants and staff.

WIC provides support to low-income families with children under the age of 5 with nutritious foods for pregnant or breastfeeding parents, infants, and children, as well as nutrition education, breastfeeding support and breast pumps. Nearly one million women, infants and children are served each month in California, through 83 WIC local agencies with over 500 clinic locations. Nearly 4,000 grocers are authorized to provide WIC foods.

California recently completed transitioning from paper checks to a WIC debit card for WIC food purchases. This historic improvement makes shopping and participating in WIC easier, especially important during a crisis.

All 83 WIC local agencies are providing services to current and new participants. Clinics may be closed to the public, but staff are providing services by phone, text, email, and video conference and some see select participants in person. Families are provided WIC cards and breast pumps using creative methods such as drive-through pick-ups, receiving cards slid under the door from WIC staff, using drop boxes at WIC clinics and by mail or expedited shipment. WIC card benefits can be loaded remotely, reducing the need for families to visit WIC local agencies.

Because many WIC shoppers reported they were unable to find WIC foods such as eggs, bread, and milk, WIC expanded the food list with hundreds of new foods available now through May 31. WIC staff can assist with information on the expanded foods, and the WIC app can scan bar codes to identify foods on the expanded list.

Information on the food list and WIC app is also online: https://www.cdph.ca.gov/Programs/CFH/DWICSN/Pages/TemporaryAPLExpansion.aspx

Families should not hesitate to call their WIC local agency for information on enrolling or continuing WIC services. Check online for WIC eligibility and locate the closest WIC office here: https://myfamily.wic.ca.gov/

"The California WIC Program is doing an outstanding job serving families during this crisis and will continue this critical support as families recover from this economic downturn," said Karen Farley, Executive Director, California WIC Association.

California WIC Association (CWA) is a non-profit organization formed in 1992 by directors of WIC local agencies administering the WIC program.

MEDIA CONTACT
California WIC Association
Sarah Diaz
(530) 276-1388
sdiaz@calwic.org

*PHOTO link for media: https://www.Send2Press.com/300dpi/20-0423s2p-wic-glenn-county-300dpi.jpg
*Photo caption: WIC staff at Glenn County practice social distancing and wear masks while serving WIC families.

*LOGO link for media: https://www.Send2Press.com/300dpi/20-0423s2p-cawic-logo-300dpi.jpg

The Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) is considered an essential service. WIC staff in California are serving families during the COVID-19 pandemic, including families who never before received benefits, but are now in need of assistance.

Related link: https://www.calwic.org/

Designer Brings Awareness to Immunosuppression During Pandemic

BOGART, Ga. /ScoopCloud/ -- StickTogether.Family, whose mission is to promote awareness of the impact a community spread virus can have on the immunosuppressed, announced today the creation of a universal icon that visually communicates being immunosuppressed and encourages physical distancing efforts during the current pandemic.

"I felt the need to do what I can to protect my wife, a breast cancer survivor, for those times when venturing out in public was no longer unavoidable," said Michael Gonyea, founder of StickTogether.Family and designer of the emblem. "I thought ahead to when people would slowly begin returning to normal routines and social activities before a COVID-19 vaccine was widely available - and how she would have to deal with that transition."

The new symbol displays a lowercase "-i" in white text within a bright red circle reflecting a less than a 100% level of immunity and also referring to an algebraic interpretation of taking oneself (the "i" pronoun) out of the social interaction equation. The symbol retains global meaning in many languages that use the Latin alphabet such as; English, French, Spanish, German, Italian, and more.

Items utilizing the iconic symbol are available now on a variety of communication accessories. Pin buttons, stickers, magnets, T-shirts, and more can be found at https://sticktogether.family/.

A portion of each sale will go toward Camp Sunshine, a Georgia-based charity that enriches the lives of children with cancer, supporting an immunosuppressed population.

About StickTogether.Family:

Founded in April of 2020, StickTogether.Family is an entity created by Michael Gonyea. Originating as a singular effort to help his wife and family navigate returning to public and private interactions, the mission quickly grew to help all individuals who are immunosuppressed, immunocompromised, or otherwise at-risk communicate their elevated risk when exposed to a community spread virus.

About Camp Sunshine:

Camp Sunshine enriches the lives of Georgia's children with cancer and their families through recreational, educational and support programs. Camp Sunshine is committed to providing magical moments for children with cancer and to building a community of hope where families with similar experiences draw strength from one another amid common understanding. For more information visit https://www.mycampsunshine.com/ or call (404) 325-7979. Camp Sunshine, Inc. (Georgia not-for-profit Corporation) is registered in the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office.

To learn more visit: https://www.StickTogether.Family.

Connect with StickTogether.Family:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/StickTogetherFamily
Twitter: @Stick2getherFam
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sticktogether_family/
Website: https://www.StickTogether.Family

* LOGO link for media: https://www.Send2Press.com/300dpi/20-0423s2p-sticktogetherfamily-300dpi.jpg

StickTogether.Family, whose mission is to promote awareness of the impact a community spread virus can have on the immunosuppressed, announced today the creation of a universal icon that visually communicates being immunosuppressed and encourages physical distancing efforts during the current pandemic.

Related link: https://www.StickTogether.Family

IDCC Answers the Call for Mental Health Care During The COVID-19 Emergency with New Teletherapy Services

BROOKLYN, N.Y. /ScoopCloud/ -- Interborough Developmental and Consultation Center, or IDCC, is once again responding to the needs of our Brooklyn communities. In these challenging times, the need for mental health services has increased dramatically over the past several weeks due to many feeling anxious and concerned about the effects of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) on both their physical health and financial wellbeing.

With most households in New York and across the country in self-isolation or quarantine due to the coronavirus pandemic, many families are finding it difficult to access much needed mental health services.

In response to this crisis, Interborough Developmental and Consultation Center, or IDCC, is now offering teletherapy services for those who want to speak with therapists or psychiatrists by phone or through the use of video from the comfort, safety, and privacy of their own home.

Having served the Brooklyn community for 45 years, IDCC's therapists have helped tens of thousands of patients with a variety of mental health services for adults and children. As the current situation makes it difficult for people to safely leave their homes, IDCC has worked closely with the Office of Mental Health (OMH) and other public health organizations to create an infrastructure of services that allow those in need to speak with therapists and psychiatrists via phone and video. These teletherapy services offer those in need the professional mental health care they are looking for - from the comfort of their own home.

"It's important for anyone who needs support during the profoundly traumatic COVID-19 emergency to be able to speak with a mental health professional. With teletherapy, access to the proper services and help is easier than ever before," says IDCC CEO, Dr. Stephen Gersten.

Teletherapy appointments can be scheduled by calling any of the IDCC facilities listed below.
Canarsie 718-272-1600
Coney Island 718-975-4888
Crown Height 718-778-0485
Flatbush 718-375-1200
Williamsburg 718-388-5175

As with all IDCC services, Medicaid, Medicare and most insurances are accepted.

IDCC offers a wide range of programs including mental health, HCBS, CFTSS, Health Homes Care Management and Home-Based Services, all of which are offering teletherapy services. For more information about IDCC, please visit https://www.interborough.org/.

Interborough Developmental and Consultation Center, or IDCC, is once again responding to the needs of our Brooklyn communities. In these challenging times, the need for mental health services has increased dramatically over the past several weeks due to many feeling anxious and concerned about the effects of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19).

Related link: https://www.interborough.org/

Matt Adams Foundation for Opioid Recovery Receives $79,000 Cigna Foundation Grant

FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. /ScoopCloud/ -- Matt Adams Foundation (MAF), a non-profit bringing innovative change in the field of harm reduction and recovery initiatives in Northwest Arkansas (NWA) is pleased to announce they are the recipients of a $79,000 grant endowed by The Cigna Foundation. The funding will expand Peer Recovery Support and harm reduction services in Arkansas; a state where in the past three years drug deaths have increased by 17%* and during a time when those who struggle with substance use are at a higher risk due to the COVID-19 outbreak.

In partnership with Ozark Guidance, the initiative funded through this grant will increase access to Peer Recovery Support Specialists (PRSS) in NWA for nights, weekends and moments of crisis. PRSS assists persons at high risk of substance use and/or mental health crisis with the navigation of multiple systems such as treatment, housing, transportation, supportive employment, supplemental benefits, and the building and rebuilding of natural supports.

"Peer recovery support is vital for those who are seeking recovery, in recovery and need support after recovery," said Katherine van den Bogert, program manager at the National Safety Council. "Drug overdose is the leading cause of preventable death in the U.S., but recovery is possible. We are excited that the Matt Adams Foundation has the financial support it needs to ensure people with substance use disorders receive the support they deserve so they can live their fullest lives."

The grant comes at a time when aid for those struggling with substance use is that much more vital, with many being higher risk during the COVID-19 outbreak of not only experiencing complications from the virus, but also of relapsing without their crucial support networks. While it is too early for conclusive data, experts across the field warn that the crisis could reverse recent strides made to combat the opioid epidemic.

On March 24, 2020, Dr. Nora Valkow, director of the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), wrote: "As people across the U.S. and the rest of the world contend with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), the research community should be alert to the possibility that it could hit some populations with substance use disorders (SUDs) particularly hard."

"Cigna is committed to fighting the opioid crisis in our communities, which is why we are so proud to support the important work the Matt Adams Foundation is doing," said Greg Allen, MidSouth market president, Cigna. "The Foundation shares our mission to help Arkansans who are struggling with opioid addiction, and this grant will enable even more people to start their journey to recovery."

Additionally, this project will establish regular naloxone trainings in the community and increase access to MAF's harm reduction program. Since its inception in March of 2019, Matt Adams Foundation for Opioid Recovery has trained and distributed Naloxone opioid overdose reversal kits for over 2,200 community members, including outfitting more than 20 police and fire departments across the region. Over 47 lives have been saved through the program, with many additional unreported positive outcomes. In receiving their largest grant to date, MAF seeks to double these numbers in the coming year.

"This grant is going to be life changing for so many struggling with addiction in NWA. When I was trying to get help and become clean it was hard to find the right resources. There was no one to help me and my family navigate the first days and weeks of this frightening time," states Melissa Cole who is in recovery and now a Marketing and Harm Reduction Specialist at the Matt Adams Foundation. "It would have been instrumental in my recovery to speak to someone who could provide critical direction and give me hope for the future." Cole believes continued care during recovery, especially in the beginning, is essential and this generous grant from Cigna Foundation is going to help provide that to residents in need in NWA.

This partnership with MAF and Ozark Guidance will extend community resources with proven efficacy in our communities.

Libby Bier, Director of Substance Abuse and Recovery Services at Ozark Guidance / Arisa Health says, "We are excited about the opportunities this Cigna grant and MAF partnership offer. Having additional Peer Support Specialists on our team will allow us to reach more people with substance use disorders in our communities. Certified Peer Support Specialists receive formal training and combine that with their personal lived experience."

Adds Bier, "They can offer help and hope in a unique way that marries nicely with our counseling and medication services."

About Matt Adams Foundation

Matt Adams Foundation is a 501(c)(3) non-profit working to combat the opioid epidemic in Northwest Arkansas and beyond. With a focus on prevention through education, life-saving harm reduction programs and improving access to, and effectiveness of, treatment for those seeking recovery, MAF has been recognized for innovative approaches and bringing positive change to the community. The Matt Adams Foundation was awarded the 2019 Fayetteville Chamber of Commerce's Non-Profit of the Year.

Learn more at: https://mattadamsfoundation.org/

*Note 1: https://www.americashealthrankings.org/learn/reports/2019-annual-report/state-summaries-arkansas

Media Contact:
Heather Starbuck, Co-Founder
Matt Adams Foundation
Phone: 978-855-4669
Email: heather@mattadamsfoundation.org

Matt Adams Foundation (MAF), a non-profit bringing innovative change in the field of harm reduction and recovery initiatives in Northwest Arkansas (NWA) is pleased to announce they are the recipients of a $79,000 grant endowed by The Cigna Foundation.

Related link: https://mattadamsfoundation.org/

IDCC Health Services Launches New Telemedicine Service to Help with Urgent Need for Remote Medical Care in Brooklyn

BROOKLYN, N.Y. /ScoopCloud/ -- With many medical practices remaining closed, and thousands of families in quarantine due to the spread of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19), it has become difficult for many in the New York community to access providers for their medical needs. This comes at an unprecedented time when concerns about the effects of COVID-19 have created a surge in the need for medical care, both for possible symptoms associated with the virus, as well as the treatment of daily medical needs.

At the same time, people are afraid to go to the doctor for care. In response to this crisis, IDCC Health Services, a multi-specialty clinic in Brooklyn, is now offering telemedicine services for those who want to speak with doctors and healthcare professionals by phone or video from the comfort, safety, and privacy of their own home.

IDCC Health Services, which has locations in Coney Island and Bensonhurst, is well known in the Brooklyn community for its top-rated physicians, including Medical Director Dr. Igor Zakharov, a consummate primary care physician. As the current situation makes it difficult for many to leave their homes safely, IDCC Health has worked to create an infrastructure of services that allows those in need to speak with doctors via phone and video. These telemedicine services offer the community the medical care they are urgently looking for without having to leave their home.

"We are living in unprecedented times now. The fact that many cannot get in touch with their doctor at a time like this is alarming and that is why IDCC Health is offering our telemedicine services to the greater community. Whether you are experiencing COVID-19 symptoms or if you have any other medical questions, we want to be there for you and easily accessible," says IDCC Health Services CEO, Dr. Stephen Gersten.

Telehealth appointments can be easily scheduled by calling one of the IDCC Health facilities listed below:

Coney Island 718- 259-6600
Bensonhurst 718-621-1811

As with all IDCC Health services, Medicaid, Medicare, and most insurances are accepted.

IDCC Health is a multi-specialty medical center that offers a full range of services including Primary Care, Physical Therapy, Gastroenterology, Urology, Internal Medicine, Gynecology, and Cardiology.

For more information visit https://IDCChealth.org/

With many medical practices remaining closed, and thousands of families in quarantine due to the spread of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19), it has become difficult for many in the New York community to access providers for their medical needs. In response to this crisis, IDCC Health Services, a multi-specialty clinic in Brooklyn, is now offering telemedicine services.

Related link: https://IDCChealth.org/

African Youth Drug Prevention (AYDP) Project Presents Substance Abuse Impact Data in Washington State

SEATTLE, Wash. /ScoopCloud/ -- On April 25 from 1 to 3 p.m., Union of Tigrean Women North America Seattle Chapter, a charitable non-profit organization supporting socio-cultural and educational causes of Ethiopians, invites the community to attend the African Youth Drug Prevention presentation of findings. The presentation will take place at the Washington State Coalition of African Community Leaders (WSCACL) quarterly meeting via Zoom.

The African Youth Drug Prevention (AYDP) team will present their neighborhood findings on the influence of substance abuse shops and advertisements as it relates to youth behavior and health.

Sponsored by WSCACL, the AYDP project demonstrates how two different African communities committed to protecting their youth can successfully collaborate to combat a common issue. The project has received support from Public Health Seattle and King County and was formed by a Coalition member partnership between the Union of Tigrean Women North America Seattle Chapter and the Rescue Mission and Prayer Network International.

Information presented will showcase how targeted youth are impacted by billions of advertising dollars and how youth of color disproportionately face negative consequences for their substance use, even though their consumption is often comparable or even lower than white youth.

Meeting participants can log into the Zoom meeting with ID: 614-712-9422 and password: 520716. Past meeting attendees have included: King County Councilmember, Girmay Zahilay; Seattle City Councilmember, Kshama Sawant; and former State Representative and current WSCACL Advisor, Dawn Mason.

About WSCACL

Founded in 2016 by a handful of African community leaders, WSCACL has grown to a Coalition membership of more than 100 leaders, individuals and business owners. It supports African Community organizations and individuals in Washington state committed to sharing resources and promoting collaboration across communities.

WSCACL assists in fostering leadership development, capacity building, community advocacy, training and education, economic empowerment and civic engagement. It receives generous support from the Greater Tacoma Community Foundation, Tacoma Urban League, Washington Nonprofits Association, Seattle Foundation, Neighborhood Matching Fund, Center for Multicultural Health, HealthPoint and the Seattle Foundation.

For more information: http://www.wcacl.org/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Washington-State-Coalition-of-African-Community-Leaders-1771135912904162/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/africanyouthdrugprevention/

*Photo link for media: https://www.Send2Press.com/300dpi/20-0421s2p-wscacl-seattle-300dpi.jpg
*Photo Caption: Seattle, Feb. 22, 2020: Collins Mbugua 15 years; Aman Guesh, 14 years; Victory Massai, 12 years; Brook Guesh, 11 years; King County Councilmember, Girmay Zahilay @BlackDot / Photo credit: Mo$ Wanted Entertainment

On April 25 from 1 to 3 p.m., Union of Tigrean Women North America Seattle Chapter, a charitable non-profit organization supporting socio-cultural and educational causes of Ethiopians, invites the community to attend the African Youth Drug Prevention presentation of findings. The presentation will take place at the Washington State Coalition of African Community Leaders (WSCACL) quarterly meeting via Zoom.

Related link: http://www.wcacl.org/

Georgia Psychiatric Practice Provides Insurance-Covered Telehealth Services

ATLANTA, Ga. /ScoopCloud/ -- As a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, many mental health practices are being forced to close their doors to patients. These closures are causing even more anxiety and stress. United Behavioral Health Solutions (UBHS, Inc.) is happy to report that it continues to see patients via its telehealth services during a time when they likely need it most.

And, the news gets even better. According to The American Psychiatric Association, "The use of video-based telepsychiatry helps meet patients' needs for convenient, affordable and readily-accessible mental health services." It also cites growing evidence that telepsychiatry leads to improved outcomes and higher patient satisfaction ratings. As a result, policy makers, payers and providers are increasingly considering ways to implement and use it.

"Thanks to our mental telehealth services, there has been no disruption to current services and care and we can help new patients in need too. Our model allows us to help patients meet their specific challenges - anytime, anywhere," Michael Coleman, CEO, UBHS, says.

While the primary focus during this pandemic has been maintaining physical wellness, mental health cannot be overlooked.

"In fact, during times of social isolation, existing mental health conditions can be heightened and new ones may occur. We're here for everyone from adults to kids who have nowhere to go," Coleman says.

UBHS is able to take same-day or next-day appointments and has a built-in Internet-based technology platform that makes connecting with a mental health expert easy and stress free. It also accepts Medicaid, Medicare and most major insurance plans.

In addition to working with individuals, UBHS also works directly with correction facilities, nursing homes, private practices, community service boards, crisis stabilization units, schools and inpatient hospitals. It serves patient populations in Georgia, South Carolina and Kentucky.

For more information, visit: https://www.ubhsinc.com/

About UBHS

UBHS specializes in telepsychiatry and psychotherapy to provide quick and convenient access to a broader community where provider access is limited. It was founded by a group of caring medical and mental health professionals who are passionate about helping people with emotional/behavioral problems.

Together, they set their goals to build a business to provide a cost effective, high quality and sustainable solution to healthcare. Its highly-trained, diverse and seasoned staff includes psychiatrists, psychologists and counselors.

All of its physicians and clinicians are board certified, licensed and carefully screened and trained to work across a technology platform that is highly secured, Internet-based and HIPAA compliant.

MEDIA CONTACT:
AJ Norris
of UBHS, Inc.
+1-404-445-5758
anorris@ubhsinc.com

As a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, many mental health practices are being forced to close their doors to patients. These closures are causing even more anxiety and stress. United Behavioral Health Solutions (UBHS, Inc.) is happy to report that it continues to see patients via its telehealth services during a time when they likely need it most.

Related link: https://www.ubhsinc.com/

Startup Atmos Home Shifts Gears with Invention to Help Solve Ventilator Shortage

BROOKSVILLE, Fla. /ScoopCloud/ -- Tampa Bay startup developing smart home control systems, Atmos Home, has now shifted gears to produce a new type of ventilator to address the nationwide ventilator shortage due to the COVID-19 crisis.

Atmos Home is leading an effort involving scientists and healthcare experts to produce a ventilator to help meet the continuing surge of respiratory cases as a result of the coronavirus. This new type of ventilator is built around automated compression of a bag valve mask.

Normally a smart home equipment developer, Atmos Home has the credential of developing the world's first smart home hub that combines all major home automation control protocols combined with touch, voice, gesture, and app controls.

The company's founder, Mark Lyle, has previously developed solutions for NASA and other wireless infrastructure providers. With its primary business sidelined because of the coronavirus pandemic, Atmos Home has utilized its skills and components to deliver a game-changer for medical professionals treating patients with COVID-19.

The innovative endeavor from Atmos Home involved re-tooling to create an automated version of a bag valve mask. These bulbous face masks are used as breathing apparatuses, normally squeezed manually by caregivers in order to help patients keep breathing. Atmos Home's concept was to eliminate manual operation and design a machine to actuate the air bag automatically, pushing air into a patient's lungs.

"I think we are injecting some reliability into the mix," Lyle said. "Plus, the complexity to be able to adjust those critical factors like breaths per minute, inhalation exhalation ratio... and so forth that some of the other projects might not be addressing."

Atmos Home is collaborating on the project with scientists, engineers, and doctors from around the globe and plans to open source the designs for its solution. It has been observed that many early stage patients that only require minimal amount of breathing assistance are currently occupying ventilators. According to the project team, their new innovation can be used by these patients.

"Now you have freed up a nurse or an EMT, and potentially freed up a ventilation machine, so absolutely the goal is to avoid the situation that we're in today," Lyle said.

Having already created the prototype, Atmos Home informs that the cost to manufacture its new ventilation device will be less than a tenth of the price of a full-blown ventilator and it can be manufactured from readily available components. The company is now looking to quickly obtain FDA approval for its device.

"If all of us working on this project can save some lives in the process," Lyle added, "that's the ultimate goal."

To find out more about Atmos Home, please visit https://atmoshome.com/atmosvent

About Atmos Home:

Atmos Home is a startup developer and manufacturer of smart home control systems. They have created the award-winning AtmosControl, the world's first smart home hub to combine all major home automation control protocols with touch, voice, gesture, and app controls.

Media Contact:
Mark Lyle
contact@atmoshome.com

*VIDEO (YouTube): https://youtu.be/10q7KjgnZy0

*PHOTO link for media: https://www.Send2Press.com/300dpi/20-0415s2p-atmos-home-ventilator-300dpi.jpg

Tampa Bay startup developing smart home control systems, Atmos Home, has now shifted gears to produce a new type of ventilator to address the nationwide ventilator shortage due to the COVID-19 crisis.

Related link: https://atmoshome.com/

Technology Firm NAG, Inc. Develops a Scientific Approach to Managing the Coronavirus

CLAREMONT, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- NAG, Inc., has developed a web solution that will improve the management of coronavirus. The application will have widespread impact on restricting spread of the virus mainly due to narrowing lockdown measures to focus on specific impacted areas which account for a fraction of each jurisdiction, leaving most of the jurisdiction's citizens and economy to function normally.

The world is on lockdown, resulting in the mass incarceration of people in home confinement and completely shutting down the economy, resulting in what is likely to be a global recession. These measures are a gut reaction to panic about the virus, and not a studied decision based on real and evolving information.

These widespread global measures covering entire jurisdictions (ignoring actual pockets of infection) are extremely inefficient, wasting scarce resources and destroying the economy.

Scientific analysis starts by investigating individual cases of infection to determine the extent of actual spread, then gradually widening the net to include all areas under real threat of infection spread. Narrowing the problem to precisely those areas that need focused attention achieves the most efficient and productive allocation of resources. This avoids a diffused response over large areas that may not need any intervention at all.

Mathematical models input point data, for example geolocated cases of confirmed infection determined by RNA tests. These, along with patient contact tracing, allow us to precisely identify areas directly under threat. In the absence of widespread testing (as is the case in the U.S.), NAG conducts household surveys to broaden the scope of detection of the virus.

Implementing these procedures continuously in real time, changes in the progress of the disease can be tracked as the situation evolves over time.

Scarce resources can then be focused on solving the problem within these finite areas instead of being wasted on areas not under threat. For example, Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) supplies would be more than adequate to meet the needs of hospitals located within an area under threat (colored in red, yellow, green and blue on the maps) if they are not wasted on uninfected areas. All of the uncolored areas on the map can revert back to normal, avoiding lockdown and closure of businesses. If a new case is detected, it will immediately appear as infected on the map, and can be treated accordingly. Data is updated in real time as information changes with the evolving situation.

About NAG, Inc.

Founded in 1991, NAG, Inc. is a technology-consulting firm specialized in data visualization solutions to federal, state, regional and local government agencies in space exploration, transportation, administrative services, economic development, community development, public utilities and public safety. NAG leverages the latest real-time sharing technologies to process complex data and improve the speed, access, accuracy and overall management of data.

Learn more at: http://nagincorporated.com

IMAGE links for media:
[1] https://www.Send2Press.com/300dpi/20-0414s2p-nag-inc-Annotation01-300dpi.jpg
[2] https://www.Send2Press.com/300dpi/20-0414s2p-nag-inc-Annotation02-300dpi.jpg
Caption: For illustration only - simulated mathematical modeling of areas under threat comprising approximately 10% of a County's jurisdiction.

[3] https://www.Send2Press.com/300dpi/20-0414s2p-nag-inc-logo-300dpi.jpg

NAG, Inc., has developed a web solution that will improve the management of coronavirus. The application will have widespread impact on restricting spread of the virus mainly due to narrowing lockdown measures to focus on specific impacted areas which account for a fraction of each jurisdiction, leaving most of the jurisdiction's citizens and economy to function normally.

Related link: https://www.naginc.net/