Category Archives: Health

Dr. Wes Heroman Announces Scholarship for Future Healthcare Innovators

Columbia, SC, June 18, 2024 — The Dr. Wes Heroman Scholarship for Healthcare Students is now accepting applications for its inaugural award cycle, offering a one-time award of $1,000 to a deserving student. This scholarship, established by the distinguished ophthalmologist Dr. Wes Heroman, is aimed at nurturing the next generation of healthcare professionals who exhibit exceptional academic prowess, a deep passion for healthcare, and a commitment to personal and professional growth.

Scholarship Criteria and Application Details
To be eligible for the Dr. Wes Heroman Scholarship for Healthcare Students, candidates must meet the following criteria:

Educational Pursuit: Applicants must be currently enrolled in an undergraduate or graduate program related to healthcare or preparing to enter university with a focus on a medical degree.

Scholastic Excellence: The scholarship values outstanding academic achievements, seeking individuals who have demonstrated exceptional performance in their academic pursuits.

Passion for Healthcare: Prospective recipients must exhibit a profound dedication to the field of healthcare, showcasing an authentic passion for contributing positively to patient well-being.

Commitment to Personal Development: Candidates should embody a strong commitment to personal and professional growth, actively seeking opportunities to expand their knowledge and skills within the healthcare domain.

Essay Submission: Applicants are required to submit a compelling essay of no more than 1,000 words, responding thoughtfully to the following prompt: “Discuss a notable challenge currently faced by the healthcare industry and propose an innovative solution for addressing it effectively.”

Problem-Solving Aptitude: The selection process favors candidates who can demonstrate creative and resourceful approaches to problem-solving, highlighting their ability to identify and address complex issues within the healthcare sector.

Dr. Rozita Akhbari to Join Carolina Pediatrics of the Triad

Greensboro, NC, June 15, 2024 — Carolina Pediatrics of the Triad announces the expansion of their practice with the addition of Dr. Rozita Akhbari. Dr. Akhbari attended Iran University of Medical Science and completed her residency at SUNY Downstate Medical Center in Brooklyn, NY. Dr. Akhbari is married with two daughters. When not practicing medicine, she enjoys hiking, biking, traveling, cooking and trying new cuisines.

When asked her thoughts on joining the practice, Dr. Akbari said, “When we moved to Greensboro, I was looking for a medical home for my own kids and after thorough research I chose Carolina Pediatrics Of The Triad. I have been very impressed by the excellence, consistency, compassion, and convenience in care we always receive and when the chance became available, I was so thrilled to be part of this amazing team.”

Essential Travel Dental Tips for Summer Vacation

Fort Smith, AR, June 15, 2024 — As summer vacation season approaches, River Valley Smile Center is committed to helping families maintain their oral hygiene routines while traveling. With many people planning trips and adventures, it can be easy to overlook dental care. Their dental experts have compiled a list of practical travel dental tips to ensure everyone can keep their smiles healthy and bright, no matter where their summer plans take them.

Top Travel Dental Tips from River Valley Smile Center:

1. Pack the Essentials: Always travel with a dental care kit that includes a toothbrush, toothpaste, floss, and mouthwash. Opt for travel-sized products to save space in your luggage.

2. Maintain Your Routine: Stick to your regular brushing and flossing schedule. Aim to brush twice a day for two minutes and floss daily, even when you’re on the go.

3. Hydrate with Water: Drink plenty of water throughout your trip. Water not only keeps you hydrated but also helps rinse away food particles and bacteria that can lead to cavities and bad breath.

4. Smart Snacking: Choose tooth-friendly snacks like fresh fruits, vegetables, cheese, and nuts over sugary and acidic foods. These healthier options are less likely to cause tooth decay.

5. Use a Toothbrush Cover: Protect your toothbrush from germs and bacteria by using a ventilated cover. Ensure the brush dries completely between uses to prevent bacterial growth.

6. Emergency Preparedness: Know what to do in case of a dental emergency. Carry our contact information and look up the nearest dental office at your travel destination just in case.

7. Regular Check-ups: Schedule a dental check-up before your trip. This ensures your teeth are in good condition and allows your dentist to address any potential issues before you travel.

At River Valley Smile Center, they understand the importance of maintaining good oral hygiene, especially during the busy summer travel season. By following these simple tips, you can enjoy your vacation without compromising your dental health.

RGCIRC Emphasizes Reintegrating Women Breast Cancer Survivors

Gurgaon/New Delhi, June 14:Rajiv Gandhi Cancer Institute and Research Centre (RGCIRC), in partnership with PROJECT I AM ENOUGH – led by Siya Tayal, organized a Breast Reconstruction Awareness Program to destigmatize breast reconstruction surgery and empower cancer survivors with knowledge on rehabilitation into society, fulfilling their wishes and aspirations.

The global incidence of breast cancer is projected to increase from 2.3 million new cases in 2020 to surpass three million by the year 2040. The event highlighted the significance of breast reconstruction, a vital aspect of cancer recovery, and emphasized various techniques such as autologous tissue transfer using the body’s own skin and fat.\

By addressing the physical and emotional aspects of breast cancer survivorship, the event aimed to provide holistic support and guidance to individuals on their journey toward reclaiming control over their bodies and lives. This initiative brought together plastic and reconstructive surgeons, breast onco-surgeons, oncologists, psychologists and body positivity activists under one roof to ignite hope and empower survivors with knowledge about their options.

Dr. A K Dewan, Director – Surgical Oncology at RGCIRC gave insights into evolution of breast cancer care in India. “The landscape of breast cancer care in India has undergone significant transformation over the years. From early detection methods to advanced surgical techniques, we have made remarkable progress. Today, the focus is not only on treating the disease but also on improving the quality of life for survivors. Breast reconstruction plays a crucial role in this holistic approach, helping women regain their confidence and sense of self.”

Breast cancer is the most common cancer in women worldwide, and the most common cancer among Indian women, comprising about 27% (164,000 per year) of all female cancers according to ICMR. Mastectomy, the surgical removal of one or both breasts, is a common treatment for breast cancer. While this procedure can save lives, it leaves women physically and emotionally scarred. Breast reconstruction emerges as a critical component in the holistic care of women who undergo mastectomies. Less than 1% undergo reconstruction in India in contrast to 30% and 20% in the UK and US respectively.

Breast reconstruction serves as a transformative procedure that helps restore a sense of normalcy and wholeness to breast cancer survivors. By recreating the breast mound, reconstruction enables women to regain their feminine identity and enhances their body image. Studies have shown that breast reconstruction contributes to a significant improvement in overall quality of life and mental health outcomes for breast cancer survivors.

Dr. Ranjan Arora, Senior Reconstructive and Micro vascular Surgeon – Surgical Oncology at RGCIRC talked about various techniques introduced in breast reconstruction.“Breast reconstruction has evolved with advancements in medical technology and surgical techniques. Today, we can offer procedures such as autologous tissue transfer, where a woman’s own skin and fat from tummy, back or thighs are used to recreate the breast. This method provides a more natural look and feel, and reduces the risk of rejection and complications.”

Led by esteemed breast care specialists, the panel delved deep into the nuances of breast reconstruction surgery, providing attendees with comprehensive information and insights. Discussions ranged from the technical aspects of the procedure to navigating the mental and emotional challenges associated with breast cancer.

Dr. Samarth Gupta, Attending Consultant, Reconstructive and Micro vascular Surgical Oncology at RGCIRC provided information on post operative care and reaching normalcy of life beyond cancer. “The aim is not just to restore physical appearance but also to address the psychological impact of cancer. Through awareness and education, we aim to empower survivors to make informed decisions about their post-cancer journey. Post-operative care is crucial in ensuring a smooth recovery and helping survivors reintegrate into their daily lives with confidence.”

The panel seen the participation of other prominent breast oncologists like Dr Rajeev Kumar Sr. Consultant & Chief of Breast Services, RGCIRCand Dr Vaishali Zamre, Senior Consultant & Unit Head (Breast Cancer Surgery, Unit II), RGCIRC. The organizing committee led by Dr. Samarth Gupta and Dr. Nikita Gupta, Visiting Consultant, RGCIRC played a key role in making the event successful.

The event also served as a platform for survivors to connect with each other, share experiences, and find support in a community of individuals who understand their journey firsthand.\

As breast cancer awareness continues to grow, initiatives like the Breast Reconstruction Awareness Program play a crucial role in ensuring that survivors receive holistic care that addresses both their physical and emotional needs. By fostering a supportive environment and providing access to information and resources, such programs pave the way for a brighter, more hopeful future for survivors.

Chicagoland Dealer Group Raises Over $120,000 in May for Pediatric Brain Cancer Research

Schaumburg, IL, June 14, 2024 — The Steve Napleton Auto Group, in collaborative efforts with employees and customers, raised over $123,000 in May towards the Violet Foundation for Pediatric Brain. This money will help fund research and support dozens of families whose children are currently being treated.

Brain cancer claims the lives of more children than any other childhood cancer. The Violet Foundation for Pediatric Brain Cancer seeks to change that. Founded in 2022, the Violet Foundation strives to raise and provide greater resources and support for scientific research and clinical trials, specifically focused on improving survival rates for pediatric brain cancer patients. Sadly, only 4% of federal funding allotted by the U.S. goes toward pediatric cancers—the Violet Foundation has committed itself to addressing this issue head-on.

The Violet Foundation for Pediatric Brain Cancer was founded by the Napleton family in memory of Violet Napleton, who passed away at three years old from Diffuse Intrinsic Pontine Glioma (DIPG) — a form of pediatric brain cancer that has less than 1% survival rate and no effective treatment. To honor Violet’s memory, they are now devoted to raising money for pediatric brain cancer research and supporting patient families undergoing treatment. The Violet Foundation urges everyone to take inspiration from Violet’s fight and join their efforts to end this cancer once and for all.

The Napleton Family of Dealerships have been active in supporting the fight against pediatric brain cancer since Violet’s diagnosis. The Steve Napleton Auto Group has raised over $400,000 towards the Violet Foundation since October 2022. Because of this success, the Violet Foundation has provided critical support to over 100 families with children undergoing brain tumor treatment, and co-funded eight research efforts in the fight against pediatric brain cancer. The Steve Napleton Auto Group will continue their fundraising efforts again in October in honor of Violet’s sixth birthday.

Kidney Care Partners Applauds Senate Introduction of Bipartisan Kidney PATIENT Act

Washington, DC, June 13, 2024 –Kidney Care Partners (KCP) – the nation’s leading kidney care multi-stakeholder coalition representing patient advocates, physician organizations, health professional groups, dialysis providers, researchers, and manufacturers – today commends Sens. Ben Ray Luján (D-NM) and Marsha Blackburn (R-TN) for introducing the Kidney Patient Access to Technologically Innovative and Essential Nephrology Treatments (PATIENT) Act, which would delay for two years the inclusion of oral phosphate-binding medication into the End-Stage Renal Disease (ESRD) Prospective Payment System (PPS). The Ways & Means and Energy & Commerce Committees have already passed a similar measure in the U.S. House of Representatives.

Oral phosphate-binding medications are necessary to treat hyperphosphatemia, a condition that occurs in nearly all individuals who receive dialysis treatments. If not treated, hyperphosphatemia can increase mortality, vascular calcification, and cardiovascular events. Currently, patients can access these drugs at their local pharmacy, but as of January 1, 2025, a new policy change from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) will instead require dialysis providers to distribute these medications. KCP is concerned this policy may negatively impact patient access to care, as many dialysis providers lack sufficient infrastructure needed to dispense and administer these drugs.

“We thank Senators Luján and Blackburn for introducing this bill to ensure continued patient access to these vital medications. Without action, CMS’ policy creates yet another challenge for the kidney community to face. Already limited access to innovative treatments and inadequate reimbursement levels are impacting kidney care,” said Colin Roskey, Executive Director of KCP. “To maintain quality, accessible treatment for individuals living with end-stage renal disease, we urge lawmakers to advance this bill without delay.”

Cornerstone Healthcare Consulting and Management Announces Promotion on Medical Practice Tune-Up Packages

LeRoy, NY, June 13, 2024 –Cornerstone Healthcare Consulting and Management is excited to announce a limited-time promotion on their highly sought-after medical practice tune-up packages. Medical practices now have the opportunity to access these comprehensive services at a 60% discount.

Reduce Your Practice’s Expenses

A key highlight of this promotion is Cornerstone’s commitment to ensuring the viability of private medical practices. The expense consulting service involves a thorough review of all practice expenses. Following this review, Cornerstone’s team negotiates with vendors to secure expense reductions. In one notable case, Cornerstone achieved savings of up to $260,000 for a single practice.

Two Tailored Packages

Medical practices can choose from two tailored packages:

Starter Package

Expense Consulting: Comprehensive review and negotiation to reduce practice expenses.

Complete Package

Expense Consulting: Includes all features of the Starter Package.
Medical Billing Review: High-level analysis to identify areas for improvement in billing processes.
Website and Marketing Review: Evaluation of online presence and marketing strategies to enhance patient engagement and practice growth.

Think of it as a checkup for your medical practice, ensuring every aspect of your operations is optimized for efficiency and success.

This promotion represents a unique opportunity for medical practices to access Cornerstone’s expertise and potentially save thousands of dollars.

Mutual Aid EMS Adds Blood Administration to Ambulance Pre-Hospital Care Capabilities

Greensburg, PA, June 12, 2024 — Mutual Aid Ambulance Service has added blood administration to its ambulance pre-hospital care capabilities. Having blood on board ambulances will allow paramedics to better care for patients prior to their transfer to a hospital.

While EMS providers have typically administered fluids intravenously to patients, the use of blood is becoming more prevalent as experts believe the practice will help to save more lives. Patients experiencing significant blood loss from trauma will have a better chance of survival if they can get blood more quickly but often will only receive the transfusion once they arrive at the hospital.

“Hospitals over the past decade have been shifting to giving patients blood sooner during the care process,” said Mutual Aid’s Medical Director Dr. Bill Jenkins. “The quicker you can get blood into a patient, the more beneficial that patient’s outcome will be.”

Before implementing the new process, Mutual Aid paramedics completed intense training on what to look for in patients experiencing hemorrhagic shock and how to use the new blood administration equipment properly. The blood will remain refrigerated on the ambulances for 35 days, after which any unused will be returned to the hospital for a new supply. Red blood cells in donated blood can be stored for up to 42 days before the blood can no longer be used.

Westmoreland Hospital in Greensburg, PA, will provide blood, and Mutual Aid will share the resource with neighboring EMS agencies, benefitting even more patients. Thus far, Mutual Aid paramedics have needed to administer blood to four patients, all of whom experienced positive outcomes.

Groundbreaking Study Shows Promise in AAV9 Gene Therapy for FOXG1 Syndrome

Buffalo, NY, June 11, 2024 — A landmark study led by Dr. Soo-Kyung Lee, Chief Scientific Officer at the FOXG1 Research Foundation and Empire Innovation Professor and Om P. Bahl Endowed Professor in the Department of Biological Sciences at University at Buffalo, and Dr. Jae Lee, Professor in the Department of Biological Sciences at University at Buffalo, in collaboration with Dr. Kathrin Meyer, who is responsible for the successful SMA gene therapy, has just been published in Molecular Therapy Methods & Clinical Development. The paper, titled, “The postnatal injection of AAV9-FOXG1 rescues corpus callosum agenesis and other brain deficits in the mouse model of FOXG1 syndrome,” presents novel findings that have significant implications for treating FOXG1 syndrome, a severe neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by profound brain structure abnormalities.

The study explores the therapeutic potential of adeno-associated virus 9 (AAV9) mediated delivery of the FOXG1 gene. Remarkably, intracerebroventricular injection of AAV9-FOXG1 in a Foxg1 heterozygous mouse model “postnatally” demonstrated the rescue of a wide range of brain pathologies including the amelioration of corpus callosum deficiencies, restoration of dentate gyrus morphology in the hippocampus, normalization of oligodendrocyte lineage cell numbers, and rectification of myelination anomalies.

“Our findings highlight the efficacy of AAV9-based gene therapy as a viable treatment strategy for FOXG1 syndrome and potentially other neurodevelopmental disorders with similar brain malformations,” said Dr. Jae Lee. “This research asserts the therapeutic relevance of our approach in postnatal stages, which is a critical time frame for intervention.”

Dr. Soo-Kyung Lee commented, “We are thrilled by the full rescue of brain structure abnormalities observed in our mouse model through this study. It marks a significant step forward in our research. With these promising results, we are eager to advance this AAV9 gene therapy towards human clinical trials, hopeful that we can extend these breakthroughs to benefit children with FOXG1 syndrome.”

This pioneering work provides a solid foundation for advancing this gene therapy towards human clinical trials, aiming to offer a transformative impact on the lives of patients with FOXG1 syndrome.

The FOXG1 Research Foundation continues to lead the way in innovative research for rare neurodevelopmental disorders, emphasizing the urgency and potential of cutting-edge treatments to alter the course of these conditions fundamentally.

Cybersecurity for Healthcare Summit USA to Focus on Securing Patient Data

Princeton, NJ, June 10, 2024 –The expansion of medical device technology has led to greater cybersecurity risks, necessitating comprehensive strategies to protect patient data and ensure business continuity. To address these challenges, QG Media, an ISMG company, presents HealthSec: Cybersecurity for Healthcare Summit USA. Scheduled for June 12-13, 2024, in Boston, the summit will focus on protecting healthcare and life sciences sectors in the U.S. from cyberthreats.

The recent ransomware attack on Change Healthcare – a major player in healthcare data exchange – caused delays in processing an estimated 15% to 50% of medical claims nationwide. Change Healthcare’s parent company UnitedHealth Group incurred around $1.6 billion in losses due to the attack and its aftermath. The incident highlights the critical importance of safeguarding patient care information, financial data and other sensitive records, and underscores the importance of robust data security in the healthcare sector, where sensitive patient information is constantly exchanged.

The HealthSec Summit offers an opportunity to engage with top-tier leaders from healthcare delivery organizations, medical device manufacturers and life sciences companies. Attendees will gain invaluable insights and collaborate on achieving cyber resilience.

The two-day summit will cover a wide range of critical themes, including assessing the impact of current cyberthreats, bolstering defenses against sophisticated attacks, leveraging lessons learned from data breaches, exploring AI applications in cybersecurity, identifying vulnerabilities in medical devices, navigating new regulatory requirements, and enhancing operational resilience through integrated IT and operational technology security.

“The HealthSec Summit USA ensures the most relevant and up-to-date topics are addressed,” said Kudsia Kaker, managing director, QG Media. “With an agenda curated for senior cybersecurity professionals and guided by an advisory committee of industry experts, the summit delivers targeted insights and actionable strategies for today’s challenges.”

Chief information security officers, including Aaron Weismann of Main Line Health; Anahi Santiago of Christiana Care Health System; Patty Ryan of QuidelOrtho; and Jigar Kadakia of Emory Healthcare, will assess best practices and analyze trends and predictions for the cybersecurity landscape in healthcare. Attendees will include CISOs, IT directors, and other senior IT and cybersecurity professionals from healthcare facilities, medical device manufacturers, biotech firms, pharmaceuticals, managed healthcare organizations, life sciences companies, and diagnostic labs.

Day 1 will commence with a keynote from Michael Prakhye, CISO of Adventist HealthCare, followed by a panel discussion on the current threat landscape in healthcare and life sciences. Moderated by David Anderson, CISO of Ensemble Health Partners, panelists – Lynette Larkins, director of information security, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital; Bezawit Sumner, CISO, CRISP; and Raymond Pawlicki, executive chairman, PrecisionLife – will explore the impact of geopolitical events on cybersecurity and identify the most credible threats facing the sector today.

On Day 2, Karl Kotalik, chief solutions officer of Celerium, will offer practical strategies for defending against data breaches, focusing on reducing detection times and improving containment strategies. Esmond Kane, CISO of Steward Health Care, will present a case study on surviving ransomware attacks, sharing lessons learned, and best practices for preparation and recovery. A CISO fireside chat moderated by Prakhye will offer advice on engaging the board to support cybersecurity initiatives.

“The HealthSec Summit USA offers an invaluable opportunity to gain real-life insights into how healthcare companies are defending against cyberattacks,” said Jennifer Eisenhofer, vice president – events, ISMG. “Attendees will learn firsthand from case studies and presentations, with an opportunity to engage and network with senior leaders in the industry, senior audience of IT and cybersecurity leaders and build cross-industry partnerships.”

By addressing current and emerging cyberthreats, the summit aims to equip cybersecurity leaders with the knowledge and tools necessary to protect their organizations and ensure the safety of patient data.