Category Archives: Health

Atlantic Health Strategies Welcomes Melissa Scopa as Director of Quality Assurance

West Palm Beach, FL, July 16, 2024 –Atlantic Health Strategies is pleased to announce the appointment of Melissa Scopa as the new Director of Quality Assurance. Melissa joins the team with over a decade of notable experience in quality assurance and compliance within the behavioral health sector, specializing in substance use disorder and mental health.

In her previous roles, Melissa has demonstrated a commitment to enhancing service delivery through meticulous compliance and quality assurance initiatives. Her expertise encompasses a wide range of regulatory and payer requirements, enriching and strengthening the Atlantic Health Strategies team.

At Atlantic Health Strategies, Melissa will lead efforts to ensure that their clients not only meet but exceed regulatory standards and payer expectations. Her work will be crucial in guiding our growing client base through the complexities of compliance program design, navigating payer audits, adhering to rigorous guidelines, and developing effective corrective action plans.

“Melissa’s extensive experience and proven track record in leading quality assurance teams will be invaluable as we continue to expand our services and deliver exceptional value to our clients,” said Leah Kendall, Chief Compliance Officer at Atlantic Health Strategies. “We are thrilled to have her on board and are confident that her contributions will enhance our capabilities in serving our clients.”

Melissa is equally enthusiastic about her new role, stating, “I am excited to join Atlantic Health Strategies and to contribute to their admirable reputation in the industry. I look forward to working with the team to further strengthen our compliance frameworks and quality assurance processes.”

Melissa’s appointment is effective July 15, 2024 and she will be based at the Atlantic Health Strategies headquarters in West Palm Beach, Florida.

Pennington Biomedical’s Small Shift for July: Prioritizing Sleep

Baton Rouge, LA, July 15, 2024 — Small shifts can make a big impact on a person’s long-term health, and that includes catching some Z’s. Quality sleep is essential for physical health, mental clarity and emotional resilience. This month, making a few small adjustments to sleep routines can enhance overall health and energy levels.

Here are a few tips to help prioritize sleep:

Create a Sleep Schedule: Aim to go to bed and wake up at the same time every day, even on weekends. Consistency helps regulate your body’s internal clock.

Wind Down Before Bed: Establish a relaxing pre-sleep routine. This might include reading a book, taking a warm bath, or practicing meditation.

Limit Screen Time: Reduce exposure to screens at least an hour before bedtime. The blue light from phones, tablets, and computers can interfere with your sleep cycle.

Optimize Your Sleep Environment: Make your bedroom a sleep sanctuary. Keep it cool, dark, and quiet, and invest in a comfortable mattress and pillows.

“Sleep is complex, but it affects everything,” said Associate Professor Dr. Prachi Singh, director of the Pennington Biomedical’s Sleep and Cardiometabolic Health Lab. “Your mental health and your physical health, everything is interconnected.”

For those who find sleep challenging, they can try making small shifts to their nighttime routine. Dr. Singh said that one of the best things about sleep is that people are naturally inclined to do it. And it doesn’t cost anything.

“Sleep is free!” Dr. Singh said. “It’s the easiest thing you can do to improve your health. If you focus on improving sleep, then depression and anxiety levels go down. You’re able to feel happier and see an improved quality of life.”

This year, the Pennington Biomedical Research Center is encouraging “Small Shifts” in food choices, exercise and daily routines. Through research studies undertaken by Pennington Biomedical scientists, the common refrain that emerged is that subtle, simple adjustments to personal habits and choices can build a foundation for lasting well-being.

Small shifts are something that everyone can do and can be incorporated into everyday life. Small shifts add up, and they are reinforcing, which further promotes the activity.

“In our mission to address and prevent disease, we feel that small shifts in diet, attitude, exercise and behavior can go a long way toward improving not only general health, but mental, physical and emotional health,” said Dr. John Kirwan, Pennington Biomedical Executive Director.

To take part in Pennington Biomedical’s “Small Shifts” campaign, people are encouraged to sign up online at pbrc.edu/smallshifts. Upon signing up, participants will receive a free health journal with helpful resources, a habit tracker, a meal planner and recipes from Pennington Biomedical’s Metabolic Research Kitchen.

Additionally, participants will receive monthly “Small Shifts” messages in which researchers will provide guidance through new small shifts. Participants’ names will be entered into monthly drawings for giveaways, including water bottles, t-shirts, Bluetooth earphones and other prizes.

DocMode Launches Clinical Research Services, Appoints Dr. Merin Dickson as Director – Medical Affairs

15th July 2024  Mumbai, Maharashtra, India  DocMode Health Technologies, India’s leading Med-Tech Ecosystem, announces the launch of its new Clinical Research Services. This expansion marks a significant milestone in the company’s mission to advance medical knowledge and improve patient outcomes through innovative research and education.

With the launch of Clinical Research Services, DocMode aims to provide comprehensive solutions that encompass clinical trial management, data analysis, regulatory compliance, and more. This initiative will support pharmaceutical companies, healthcare providers, and researchers in conducting high-quality clinical studies efficiently and effectively.

DocMode’s Clinical Research Services offer a broad range of capabilities. They include comprehensive management of clinical trials from study design to data collection and analysis, ensuring adherence to regulatory standards. Advanced biostatistical analysis and data management provide accurate and reliable results, while expertise in navigating complex regulatory environments ensures all studies meet necessary guidelines and standards. Additionally, the services include coordination and management of multi-center clinical trials to facilitate broader and more diverse patient recruitment and data collection.

In conjunction with this launch, DocMode announces the appointment of Dr. Merin Dickson as the Director of Medical Affairs. Dr. Dickson will lead the Clinical Research division, bringing extensive experience and a deep understanding of clinical research methodologies and medical affairs to the role. Dr. Dickson previously served as Chief Research Officer at Amrita Institute of Medical Science, where she managed multi-centric clinical trials and regulatory services for national biopharma missions.

“We are thrilled to launch our Clinical Research Services, which will play a crucial role in bridging the gap between clinical practice and research,” said Hans Lewis, CEO of DocMode Health Technologies. “With Dr. Merin Dickson’s expertise and leadership, we are confident that our new services will significantly contribute to the advancement of medical research and ultimately improve patient care.”

Dr. Merin Dickson also shared her enthusiasm about the new role, “I am honored to join DocMode at this pivotal moment. Our Clinical Research Services are designed to address the growing needs of the healthcare industry for robust and reliable clinical data. I look forward to working with our team and partners to drive impactful research that will shape the future of healthcare.”

Alivia Care, Inc. Introduces Alivia Care @ Home to the Gainesville & Ocala Community

Gainesville, FL, July 15, 2024 — Alivia Care Inc., the parent organization of Community Hospice & Palliative Care, announces the launch of Alivia Care @ Home, a groundbreaking initiative designed to deliver exceptional home health, home care, and supportive care (community-based palliative care) services to patients at an earlier stage of their illness, all within their homes’ familiar and comforting environment.

Community Hospice & Palliative Care, a trusted provider in North Florida since 1979, has consistently delivered high-quality and compassionate care. In 2020, its leaders established Alivia Care Inc. to broaden its mission and vision, aiming to extend care to more individuals in more locations and at earlier stages of illness progression. Today, Alivia Care @ Home represents this commitment by bringing the same renowned standards of care to the community through innovative home-based solutions.

Alivia Care @ Home will become a recognizable name across North Central Florida, offering specialized care for patients who prefer receiving treatment at home. Whether patients require home healthcare, additional caregiver support, or ongoing pain and symptom management, Alivia Care @ Home ensures they receive services designed to enhance their quality of life.

“Alivia Care @ Home is committed to extending the reach of our care services, making them more accessible to those in need,” said Susan Ponder-Stansel, CEO of Alivia Care, Inc. “Our goal is to provide continuous, comprehensive care that begins earlier in a patient’s journey, helping them manage their conditions in a familiar and comforting environment.”

Alivia Care @ Home offers a comprehensive range of specialized services, including nursing, physical, occupational, and speech therapies. These services are meticulously tailored to meet each patient’s unique needs, empowering them to regain mobility and independence within their familiar home surroundings. From assisting with daily activities to enhancing mobility and strength, we focus on individual goals and preferences, enabling patients to embrace life with confidence.

Confederation of Indian Industry CII and Hyatt Hotels launches Industry Led Hospitality Programme with Ecole Hotelier de Lausanne in India

15th July 2024  Gurugram, Haryana, India  Under a significant initiative for skill development in the Indian hospitality industry, Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) is launching an 18-month Vocational Education and Training (VET) Swiss Professional Diploma program in collaboration with EHL and Hyatt Hotels in Delhi NCR and Lucknow.

Students who have completed their Class 12 can enroll in this program which is being delivered at premium Hyatt properties including Hyatt Regency (Delhi), Hyatt Regency (Lucknow), Andaz (Delhi), and Grand Hyatt (Gurugram). At present, there are over 500 students undergoing training by CII at other hotels across India. CII also assures job placements to its students upon their successful completion of the Swiss Professional Diploma.

Sunjae Sharma – Managing Director – India & Southwest Asia, Hyatt Hotels, “At a time when India is emerging as a global leader in the hospitality industry, there is significant growth potential for the youth of India who choose the VET by EHL programme, offered by the Confederation of Indian Industry. We are proud to be the first international hotel chain company in India to collaborate with CII and EHL for this initiative and to contribute to training a new generation of hoteliers. I am confident that the learning and training imparted at Hyatt will enable these young minds to stand out in this competitive sector and achieve their dreams.”

Aman Aditya Sachdev, Director & Regional Head at EHL for South Asia, Middle East & Myanmar, “The VET by EHL program is based on principles of the world-renowned Swiss Competency Framework and has been developed by EHL subject matter experts and faculty members, as well as with global industry feedback. The objective of the program is to prepare the youth worldwide for frontline job roles in the hospitality industry at global standards. Students of the program in India will be at a significant advantage with future employers, in global mobility and in their career progression. They will acquire the relevant knowledge and competencies required by the industry at par with international programs.

We are excited to launch the VET by EHL program today at multiple Hyatt Hotels across India. The program shall be delivered in coordination with the CII Institute of Hospitality; CII and EHL have established a long-term strategic partnership in India for the skilling of the youth for the hospitality sector.”

Sougata Roy Choudhury – Executive Director, Confederation of Indian Industry, “With the rapidly expanding hospitality industry in India and many other countries, there is an unprecedented requirement of skilled professionals. Also, the youths’ interest in long duration courses is dwindling. Hence, CII, as an Industry body has stepped in to bridge this gap through the VET by EHL Swiss Professional Diploma initiative, that offers practical training by industry experts at renowned and luxurious Hyatt hotels. We ensure students are job-ready from day one, and upon completing this 18-month diploma, they secure placements in top hotels and restaurants worldwide.”

NuvOx Pharma LLC Announces Authorization of ARDS Trial from Health Canada

Tucson, AZ, July 13, 2024 — NuvOx Pharma LLC (“NuvOx”) announced that it has received authorization from Health Canada for its EXTEND: novEl oXygen ThErapeutic NanO2 for mild respiratory distress in Phase Ib and ARDS in Phase II Trials.

Evan Unger, MD, CEO of NuvOx, said, “Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome (ARDS) has been an important part of our overall development strategy. We recently expanded our protocol inclusion criteria for this trial, aiming to accommodate patients in general respiratory distress. We believe our first-in-class product will be able to help ARDS patients. We are thrilled to receive this authorization.”

“We have been preparing this trial for the past few months. Products are ready and we have signed up the first clinical site,” added Jennifer Johnson, PhD, CSO of NuvOx, “We are also very grateful to US Department of Health & Human Services, Biomedical Advanced Research and Development Authority (BARDA), with whom we entered into a partnership last year. We look forward to launching the trial.”

Jarrod Mosier, MD, Professor of Emergency Medicine & Medicine, Vice Chair for Research, the University of Arizona, lead author on the article, “The impact of intravenous dodecafluoropentane on a murine model of acute lung injury.” Intensive Care Medicine Experimental 11.1 (2023): 33., and Chair of the Data Safety Monitoring Committee for the EXTEND Trial, said, “NanO2 has shown efficacy in animal models of respiratory distress, demonstrating the potential to restore blood oxygen levels, decrease lung inflammation, and improve survival. ARDS has mortality of up to 40% in patients and this disease desperately needs effective therapy. The EXTEND Trials is expected to pave the way for NanO2 as treatment for this deadly disease.”

Approximately 10 to 15% of patients admitted to the intensive care units and up to 23% of mechanically ventilated patients meet the criteria for ARDS (1). Despite advances in critical care, ARDS still has high morbidity and mortality(2). Hypoxia from the inciting illness contributes to various cognitive changes that may persist for months after discharge. Although NanO2‘s safety and efficacy are still under investigation via various clinical trials and has not been granted market authorization by Health Canada, its use in the EXTEND Trial aims at addressing this unmet medical need.

(1) Bellani G, Laffey JG, Pham T, Fan E, Brochard L, Esteban A, Gattinoni L, van Haren F, Larsson A, McAuley DF, Ranieri M, Rubenfeld G, Thompson BT, Wrigge H, Slutsky AS, Pesenti A., LUNG SAFE Investigators. ESICM Trials Group. Epidemiology, Patterns of Care, and Mortality for Patients With Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome in Intensive Care Units in 50 Countries. JAMA. 2016 Feb 23;315(8):788-800. [PubMed]

(2) Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome – StatPearls – NCBI Bookshelf (nih.gov)

This project has been funded in whole or in part with Federal funds from the Department of Health and Human Services; Administration for Strategic Preparedness and Response; Biomedical Advanced Research and Development Authority, under Contract No. 75A50123C00034.

Lice Busters NYC Expands to Larger Manhattan Facility Amid Post-Pandemic Surge in Demand

New York, NY, July 13, 2024 — Lice Busters NYC Relocates to Meet Surging Demand in Post-Pandemic Era.

Lice Busters, New York City’s premier lice removal service, announced today its plans to relocate to a larger facility within Manhattan to accommodate the increased demand for lice treatment services following the COVID-19 pandemic.
The company has experienced a significant surge in cases as children return to in-person schooling and social activities resume. This move will allow Lice Busters to expand its capacity and continue providing top-quality lice removal services to families throughout the five boroughs.

“We’ve seen an unprecedented increase in lice infestations since pandemic restrictions have eased,” said Daniel Harel, CEO of Lice Busters. “Our new location will enable us to help more families quickly and effectively, reducing the stress and discomfort associated with lice outbreaks.”

The relocation is scheduled for September, 2024 and will feature an expanded treatment area, additional staff, and enhanced safety protocols to ensure the well-being of both clients and employees. The new facility will also house an educational center to provide community workshops on lice prevention and treatment.

Harel added, “This move represents our commitment to the New York City community. As we grow, we remain dedicated to our mission of providing safe, effective, and compassionate lice removal services to families in need.”

Lice Busters will continue to offer its signature all-natural, pesticide-free treatments at the new location. The company’s exact new address will be announced in the coming weeks, with no interruption to services expected during the transition.

New Therapy Center Offering Individual Care for Children with Autism

Fresno, CA, July 12, 2024 — Butterfly Effects is thrilled to unveil its latest ABA Therapy center in Fresno, California, a cutting-edge facility set to open its doors on July 23, 2024. This 6,882 square feet center, situated at 5325 North Fresno Street, Suite 103, is not just a space but a haven designed to offer personalized, one-on-one care to children grappling with autism and other developmental hurdles. The center’s unique design is a testament to Butterfly Effects’ commitment to addressing and treating the deficits associated with autism spectrum disorder (ASD).

The Fresno center will be under the expert guidance of a Board-Certified Behavior Analysts (BCBAs), who will lead a team of Registered Behavior Technicians (RBTs) and other skilled technicians. This dedicated team will provide one-to-one treatment to children, ensuring personalized ABA therapy for children aged 2 through 6 during the day and 6 years old and older for after-school sessions. The team’s expertise guarantees tailored support that caters to each child’s unique needs.

Dr. Steve Woolf, the President of Butterfly Effects, brings over 30 years of experience in supporting families affected by ASD. He shares, “Our mission is to effect a socially meaningful change in the lives of children and families. The new Fresno center is a testament to our unwavering commitment to deliver high-quality, evidence-based ABA therapy in a developmentally appropriate environment, specially crafted to help children flourish.”

The CDC reports that 1 in 36 children in the U.S. has been identified with autism. Butterfly Effects is committed to helping children and families get the help they need. Using specialized teaching procedures based on Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) principles, Butterfly Effects teaches children essential skills needed to gain personal independence and succeed in community and school environments. The center includes a home-based clinical component, where parents receive training on integrating the skills taught in the center into their child’s daily home routines.

Butterfly Effects provides ABA therapy services in centers, homes, schools, and communities in 12 states. Their work not only improves the lives of children but also empowers parents to make significant and lasting improvements in their children’s lives. Parents who want information about the new Fresno center can visit Butterfly Effects’ website at www.butterflyeffects.com or contact them at 888-880-9270.

Butterfly Effects is a leading provider of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy services, with 12 centers nationwide and in-home services for over 2,100 clients. It offers essential services for parents navigating the challenges of a child’s Autism diagnosis and serves as a critical resource for physicians making referrals. Known for its high-quality service and reputation, Butterfly Effects is also an attractive employer for RBTs, BCBAs, and technicians.

Age Well Care Launches In-Home Caregiving Services in Santa Barbara, Goleta and Surroundings

Santa Barbara, CA, July 11, 2024 –Age Well Care is committed to ensuring exceptional care through its comprehensive training programs for caregivers. These programs equip caregivers with the skills and knowledge necessary to provide high-quality care, including specialized training in chronic sickness programs, dementia care, Parkinson’s disease management, fall prevention, and transitional care. By offering continuous education and support, Age Well Care fosters a culture of excellence and compassion.

Holistic Approach to Diverse Needs
Age Well Care’s approach centers on a holistic model that emphasizes overall well-being. The services cater to individuals of all ages, from seniors to those recently discharged from hospitals or skilled nursing facilities. Specialized programs are tailored to meet diverse needs, including:

Dementia Program: Focused care for individuals with dementia, incorporating memory exercises and support strategies.
Parkinson’s Program: Specialized care plans to manage symptoms and improve quality of life.
Fall Prevention Program: Strategies and support to reduce the risk of falls and enhance safety at home.
Transitional Care Program: Assistance for individuals transitioning from hospital or skilled nursing facilities to home, ensuring a smooth and safe recovery.
Age-Specific Programs: Customized care plans for individuals at different life stages, addressing unique needs and challenges.

Personalized Care Plans
Understanding that each individual has unique needs, Age Well Care offers customized care plans developed in collaboration with family members and healthcare professionals. Services include:

Personal Care: Assistance with bathing, dressing, grooming, and mobility.
Home Support: Light housekeeping, meal preparation, and errands.
Health Management: Medication reminders, coordination with healthcare providers, and wellness checks.
Companionship: Engaging activities, conversation, and emotional support.

Community-Focused Care
Age Well Care’s hyper-local approach ensures that caregivers are familiar with the communities they serve, enhancing the level of personalized care and integration with local resources. The Santa Barbara team is ready to support the community with dedicated and compassionate care.

Future Expansion Plans
In addition to the Santa Barbara launch, Age Well Care is pleased to announce plans to expand into new territories soon. This growth strategy aims to bring exceptional services to more communities, ensuring that individuals everywhere have access to the care needed to live independently and with dignity.

TPAG and CII Join Hands to Combat Thalassemia on World Thalassemia Day

New Delhi, Delhi, India  On World Thalassemia Day, Thalassemia Patients Advocacy Group (TPAG) proudly announces its collaboration with the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) for a groundbreaking initiative aimed at addressing the growing burden of thalassemia in India. This partnership marks a significant milestone in the ongoing efforts to combat thalassemia and ensure the well-being of individuals affected by this inherited blood disorder.

Thalassemia, a condition characterized by insufficient production of hemoglobin, poses a significant health challenge in India, with an estimated 100,000 patients and an alarming annual incidence of 10,000–15,000 children born with thalassemia major. Recognizing the urgent need for action, TPAG and CII have united under the Safe Blood Campaign to organize a series of voluntary blood donation camps tailored specifically for thalassemia patients.

Anubha Taneja-Mukherjee, Member Secretary of TPAG, expressed her enthusiasm for the collaboration, stating, “Under Safe Blood Campaign, CII and Thalassemia Patients Advocacy Group (TPAG) have come together to organize a series of voluntary blood donation camps for transfusion-dependent thalassemia patients in government hospitals in Delhi.” She emphasized the significance of these camps, timed to coincide with World Thalassemia Day (8th May) and World Blood Donor Day (14th June), in promoting safe blood practices and preventing transfusion-transmitted infections.

To further enhance the safety of donated blood, TPAG urges the government to prioritize the implementation of Nucleic Acid Testing (NAT) screening nationwide. This advanced screening method can detect HIV 1 and 2, Hepatitis B, and Hepatitis C, ensuring that only safe blood is transfused to patients. TPAG advocates for the establishment of stringent blood laws to enforce these vital screening protocols across the country.

While acknowledging India’s potential for groundbreaking research in thalassemia treatment, TPAG emphasizes the need for regulatory evolution to align with international standards. Despite recent advancements, hemoglobinopathies continue to strain the healthcare system, highlighting the importance of ongoing research, improved accessibility to screening methods, and the exploration of curative options like gene therapy.

As the fight against thalassemia progresses, TPAG calls for collective action from healthcare professionals, policymakers, NGOs, and the public. Early detection through genetic testing, modernization of healthcare infrastructure, and increased access to blood banks are crucial steps towards reducing the burden of thalassemia and improving the quality of life for affected individuals.

TPAG remains committed to advocating for the prevention and treatment of thalassemia and invites stakeholders from all sectors to join in this vital mission.