PITTSBURGH (PRWEB)
April 22, 2020

Child welfare and behavioral healthcare services are inherently relationship-based fields, and perhaps the most critical challenge that service providers face is developing healthy relationships with the people they serve. A sense of mutual trust between providers and youth/families may be the most significant component of a strong working relationship. Providers who can establish trust often provide higher quality care and may achieve more desirable service outcomes than those who struggle to develop mutual trust. However, engaging difficult or traditionally hard-to-reach youth/families is one of the most pressing challenges in the field of child welfare, as many individuals in care report a lack of trust between themselves and their service providers.

In one study, the researchers asked a diverse group of service providers from various states and services (residential treatment, special education, community-based, outpatient, foster care, etc.) to identify how they build trust with youth and families.

Researchers used group concept mapping – an approach that uses advanced statistics to analyze comments –to tabulate responses and categorize them into five overarching themes. Within each theme is a menu of practical skills, attitudes, and techniques that provers use to develop trust. These themes constitute a core model for building trust with youth and families usable by anyone, anywhere, anytime.

The study is the first of its kind to assess how staff from across the service array actively build trust. Previously, many believed that the ability to create trust is an innate ability, something that is difficult to teach. Results from this study suggest that providers can learn how to build trust, and that program managers and supervisors can support staff to create healthier relationships built upon trust.

“This study identifies practical and important skills that staff use to build trusting relationships with youth. By building these skills with our staff, we will better position them to engage and partner with our youth and families,” said Michael Valenti, Senior Research Coordinator, Organizational Performance.

“Our organization has a long and distinguished history of measuring the impact on the people we serve, and the working alliance is such an important piece of knowing how well we connect with people to ensure we are having a positive impact on our communities, kids, and families,” stated Susanne Cole, President and CEO

The project also included an official field test of Pressley Ridge’s Alliance Building: Learning to Engage (ABLE), a new model for developing and tracking supportive relationships, or “working alliances.” ABLE combines working alliance theory with practical feedback tools that reinforce that our relationships (with individuals, groups, teams, etc.) are at the center of everything we do. ABLE was developed specifically to increase communication and collaboration across a wide variety of people, services, and systems.

Pressley Ridge is currently sharing the results with staff and examining how the ABLE intervention might support trust-building efforts. The organization will continue to explore how employees create and maintain trust with youth and families. For more information about this work, please contact Michael Valenti, Senior Research Coordinator (mvalenti@pressleyridge.org).

About Pressley Ridge

Pressley Ridge provides individuals and families with hope and support through life’s challenges. Each year, 10,000 children and families are strengthened through community-based mental health services, foster care and adoption, specialized education and supportive services for transition-age youth. Our more than 70 programs all share a common goal of establishing stable, healthy families and life-long connections that result in a successful, happy life. Pressley Ridge was founded in 1832 and remains headquartered in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. A legacy of successful outcomes has allowed the organization to expand services to communities in Central Pennsylvania, Ohio, West Virginia, Maryland, Virginia and Delaware.

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PHOTO: Philanthropist and Figgers Wireless CEO Freddie Figgers has spearheaded a campaign to provide critical assistance to thousands of healthcare workers on the front lines of the COVID-19 crisis.

When I saw the virus in China and how it affected the nearly 1.5 billion population, I knew it was only a matter of time before it struck home here in America,” said Figgers. “I knew the pandemic could potentially overwhelm our healthcare system and began planning to gather critical supplies…

FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. (PRWEB)
April 22, 2020

The Figgers Foundation, the charitable arm of African American owned telecommunications firm Figgers Communications, aims to bring awareness and provide solutions to real life issues. Committed to making the world a better place by donating a percentage of the company’s profits to pro-social efforts, philanthropist and CEO Freddie Figgers has spearheaded a campaign to provide critical assistance to thousands of healthcare workers on the front lines of the COVID-19 crisis. The Florida-based non-profit is donating and distributing approximately 700,000 units of personal protection equipment (“PPE”) to Coronavirus outbreak hotspots around the country. These hotspots include hospitals and healthcare workers in New York, Washington State, California, Georgia, Maryland, New Jersey, Florida, and Michigan. The donations include some of the most crucial PPE equipment such as surgical masks, N95 masks, face shields and hazardous material protective coveralls.

“When I saw the virus in China and how it affected the nearly 1.5 billion population, I knew it was only a matter of time before it struck home here in America,” said Figgers. “I knew the pandemic could potentially overwhelm our healthcare system and began planning to gather critical supplies, such as PPEs, anticipating that access to protective gear could become an issue for healthcare professionals on the front lines. I was able to purchase these supplies directly from manufacturers before they would be overwhelmed themselves. We are grateful to be able to make this contribution and stand with American first responders as they work tirelessly to battle this global health crisis. I am personally committed to doing everything in my power to make the world a better place.”

Distribution of PPE donations will continue while supplies last – if you are a healthcare provider in need of PPE for your patient care staff, please submit a request by visiting The Figgers Foundation website at http://www.figgersfoundation.org or accessing the form via the following link: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdyRj_lqQcvnbdlN2djbBVcqBi2OFBsS3YjqGDaK5YkXRUjQQ/viewform?pli=1.

For more information about The Figgers Foundation or to get involved, please visit http://www.figgersfoundation.org.

About Figgers Communications

Figgers Communications is the only African American owned wireless telecommunications company in the United States. Figgers Communications includes Figgers Wireless, an FCC-regulated telecom and electronics company offering cellular, mobile broadband, home phone, international calling solutions, and smart TVs; sister company FiggHealth, which aims to improve the lives of chronic health patients with innovative technologies; and charitable organization Figgers Foundation, whose mission is to inspire change, bring awareness and provide solutions to real life issues with a focus on education, self-sufficiency and wellness.

To learn more about Figgers Communications and the company’s product and service offerings, please visit http://www.figgers.com.

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We’re pleased to offer this virtual event to help radiologists stay current on important topics like the COVID-19 outbreak and meet the need for education and interaction that in-person events once served.

ARLINGTON, Va. (PRWEB)
April 22, 2020

Radiology portal AuntMinnie.com, part of Science and Medicine Group, today announced that it will be hosting 2020 Virtual Conference, a two-day virtual event for radiology professionals, on Thursday, April 30, and Friday, May 1.

With the cancellation of medical meetings around the world due to COVID-19, 2020 Virtual Conference is designed to meet the continuing need for medical education and professional interaction — but in the age of social distancing.

Each day of the conference will feature presentations by key opinion leaders in radiology, with each talk followed by live Q&A sessions. A virtual exhibit hall will enable attendees to speak to their peers as well as to experts. Attendees can also watch demos and learn about the latest trends in the industry, and an online lounge format supports peer-to-peer interaction between meeting attendees and industry thought leaders.

Topics to be presented at 2020 Virtual Conference include the following:

• Artificial Intelligence for COVID-19 Detection
• What Now for Artificial Intelligence?
• Lung Ultrasound for COVID-19
• Leading Radiology’s Fight Against COVID-19
• Radiology Preparedness in the Age of COVID-19
• A Look at Women’s Imaging in 2020

Each day’s sessions will start at 11 a.m. EDT and run until 5 p.m. EDT. Registration for the event is free, at http://auntminnie.vfairs.com.

“We’re pleased to offer this virtual event to help radiologists stay current on important topics like the COVID-19 outbreak and meet the need for education and interaction that in-person events once served,” said Science and Medicine Group CEO Craig Overpeck. “Thousands of radiology professionals have already registered for this year’s event.”

2020 Virtual Conference is being supported by an unrestricted educational grant from IBM Watson Health, the platinum sponsor of the event, as well as other sponsors in the radiology industry.

About AuntMinnie.com

AuntMinnie.com is the premier online destination for radiologists, radiation therapists, interventional radiologists, and related professionals in the medical imaging industry, while AuntMinnieEurope.com serves the European radiology community. AuntMinnie.com and AuntMinnieEurope.com feature the latest news, communities, continuing medical education, and board review education for medical imaging physicians, clinicians, residents, and medical students across the world. AuntMinnie.com and AuntMinnieEurope.com are part of Science and Medicine Group.

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Standardized certification examinations in dementia care which follow the healthcare certification/licensure model.

“Our goal is to help everyone working with seniors be as knowledgeable as possible,”

CHICAGO (PRWEB)
April 22, 2020

News and other press reports consistently mention the elderly are at particular risk with higher mortality if/when they contract COVID 19. Many individuals who have earned caregiver and educator certifications (CACtm, CAEdtm) from NCBAC are now caring for seniors who have COVID 19 or are at risk because of their age and living situation.

To help caregivers understand the specific issues related to the risks of exposure and challenges of dealing directly with COVID 19, NCBAC has begun assembling related information from a variety of sources. It can be found at: https://ncbac.net/covid19. Postings are updated weekly and come from a variety of sources including major medical institutions, government agencies such as the Centers for Disease Control, World Health Organization, leading scientists and commentators and others.

News is often so sobering and grave in the early stages of a pandemic like COVID 19, a companion site has been created which deals early successes in treatment and otherwise positive news. This information can be found at https://ncbac.net/coronavirus-heroes.

Dr. Donna Surges Tatum, PhD, President and Founder of NCBAC, “We’re all dealing with an issue we didn’t even know about 6 months ago. Our goal is to help everyone working with seniors be as knowledgeable as possible, especially including those that have earned certifications from NCBAC.”

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William E. Morgan, DC – President of Parker University

“Devote yourself to self-improvement, exercise, and relationships.”

DALLAS (PRWEB)
April 21, 2020

While the COVID19 virus rages across the globe killing tens of thousands, the recommendations from infectious disease experts will also leave a grim toll on society. “Social distancing” and self-imposed isolation are certainly an appropriate societal response to impede the impact and spread of this dreaded virus, but these actions will also cause an unintended secondary health crisis. Society needs to identify this and work to minimize its impact.

The health risks of self-isolation caused by the current shelter-at-home mandates include a deleterious effect on several systems of the body: musculoskeletal (muscles and bones), cardiovascular, mental health, neurological and cognitive health, and immune systems. Ancillary news stories are revealing the unintended consequences of the current plan of action. These stories include the death of a well-known star from a pulmonary embolism (a blood clot in the lungs often caused by prolonged sitting), a dramatic increase in societal alcohol consumption, anxiety from job/income loss, accelerated dementia of patients in nursing homes because of isolation, and reports of increased anxiety and depression.

For some people this lockdown will shorten their life expectancy more than exposure to the virus would. They will survive the virus, only to shorten their lives through a passive interpretation of how they should hunker down. However, there are action steps which can ensure not only survival of this lockdown, but also better health on the other end of it.

A Plan of Action Should NOT be a Plan of Inaction

This lockdown will last several more weeks and could indeed last for a couple more months. Cardiovascular, muscle, bone, and mental capacities rapidly atrophy in the absence of stimulation and exercise. Individuals must have a plan of action to preserve their physical health and mental faculties. This should not be a time of binge eating while watching TV.

Exercise every hour, not just every day. While a daily workout is important, it is also important to move throughout the day. Movement will help keep the immune system active, lymph flowing, and prevent blood flow from stagnating and forming clots. Get up and walk around at least every hour, and avoid prolonged sitting. If someone is in the midst of watching their favorite tiger documentary, they should get up and march in place for a few minutes every hour.

Work out every day. While motion is important for blood flow and immune response, everyone should continue to exercise to prevent loss of muscle and bone strength as well as cardiovascular fitness. Move every hour, but also work out every day. The speed at which muscles atrophy and cardiovascular capacity diminishes during total rest is astounding. It is vital to work your muscles and heart every day while in isolation. There are plenty of resources on the internet for exercising while in isolation.

Avoid social isolation. Social distancing is a misnomer; more appropriately it should be called physical distancing. People need to avoid social distancing and instead remain socially engaged. This can be done through social media, phone calls, FaceTime, and many other mediums. To see a face during social time, is even better. During this time of lockdown, many have been contacted by old friends whom they have not heard from for years. Take this time as an opportunity to connect with old friends and to re-establish a social network.

Isolation is a factor that accelerates the symptoms of dementia and depression. It is important to avoid social isolation and continue to maintain a healthy network of friends and family. Take the opportunity to contact those who are isolating alone during this lockdown and engage them often.

For those in lockdown with other people, remain connected. Play games. Be creative. Plan, prepare, and eat meals together. Talk. Listen. Pop popcorn and watch a feel-good movie when watching something. Avoid compulsively watching the news or focusing on the negative aspects of this historic event.

Helping others will help yourself. If you can be a beacon of hope to others, you will be uplifted as a fringe benefit. Right now there are many depressed, anxious people focusing on negative events over which they have no control. If you know of someone slipping into despair, call them and encourage them.

Get outside. Exposure to the sun is important on many levels. It affects mood, helps the body establish the normal circadian rhythm of the sleep-wake cycle, and it also helps the immune system through the production of vitamin D.

Focus on self-improvement. It is hard to get depressed while actively seeking a goal. It is valuable to take this time at home to improve physically, mentally, and spiritually. This can be accomplished by exercising every day, seeking depth in relationships, and working on projects that will fulfill life goals.

Try to view the current shelter-at-home directives metaphorically. Be like the caterpillar who enters the cocoon for a season of metamorphosis which later emerges from the cocoon with a new purpose and the ability to take flight. What you spend your time doing now will impact your future. Devote yourself to self-improvement, exercise, and relationships.

Keep a positive mindset and remember, “You are not stuck at home, you are safe at home.”

William E. Morgan is president of Parker University in Dallas, Texas. He has served as a consultant to the medical departments in the U.S. Capitol and the White House.

About Parker University:

Parker University (Parker.edu) was founded in 1982 by Dr. James W. Parker, DC, originally as Parker College of Chiropractic. In 2011, the name was changed as its curriculum expanded. Today, Parker University has 1,600 students and 29 academic programs, including its famed chiropractic program along with master’s degrees in neuroscience, clinical neuroscience, and functional nutrition. Currently, Parker University’s chiropractic cohort is the second largest of any campus in the world.

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The program will also discuss the impact of the current coronavirus pandemic on the dental industry, and the outlook for a resumption of normal dental services.

MIAMI (PRWEB)
April 21, 2020

Hollywood’s Laurence Fishburne is best known for his performances in blockbuster hits, such “Contagion” and the “John Wick” series. The actor, producer, and director wields an equally impressive and varied skillset. Fishburne is lends those talents as host to the educational program “In Depth”. The program interviews industry experts about a wide array of topics that impact viewers across the country. An upcoming episode with feature dental professionals discussing how dental implants can improve lives.

Over half of Americans feel a sense of insecurity about their smile. Missing or crooked teeth, or discolored teeth from previous injuries, can impact a person’s confidence. Dental implants, a procedure where implants are placed surgically into jawbone, can fix prior mouth issues. These types of implants can replace missing teeth, which can improve mouth function and appearance. Also, they can enhance smiles and the ability to chew and bite. Additionally, implants can correct and preserve the spacing and position of surrounding natural teeth, as well as preserve jaw bone.

Dental implants have the unique ability to enhance the quality of life for numerous individuals. “In Depth” will explore in greater detail the positive impact dental implants have on the lives of many in the impending episode. The program will also discuss the impact of the current coronavirus pandemic on the dental industry, and the outlook for a resumption of normal dental services.

“In Depth” with Laurence Fishburne is carefully reviewed before broadcast. The educational show has received multiple Tellys for its efforts.

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Paul Weiss joins Wambi as Chief Technology Officer

I am most excited to be a part of a team of gracious and caring individuals that are trying to make a difference in the lives of those whose job it is to make a difference in patients’ lives.

PHILADELPHIA (PRWEB)
April 21, 2020

Paul Weiss joins the Wambi team as Chief Technology Officer. Weiss plans to guide Wambi’s future growth by tapping into his experience in pharmaceuticals, manufacturing, healthcare, and security, which extends back nearly a quarter of a century. Weiss has made a career out of serving as a technology liaison for business leaders to identify, design, and deliver software solutions to solve real-world problems.

Working closely with Wambi’s Co-founders, Rebecca Metter, CEO, and Alex Coren, Chief Innovation Officer, Weiss is responsible for fortifying and growing the Wambi and Carepostcard offerings to bring actionable insights and real-time recognition to healthcare workers. His responsibilities include identifying and enabling strategic feature development, software life cycle process improvement, and new technology implementation. Weiss is also responsible for the security architecture and management for Wambi products and services. “First and foremost, Paul exemplifies the Wambi values and is driven by our mission. Paul’s strong history in teambuilding, coupled with his technology and innovation expertise, make him a great fit for our Wambi family,” says Metter.

Prior to joining Wambi, Weiss co-founded Coactive, a workflow and business automation company; designed software solutions; and consulted for Big Pharma companies like Lilly, Amgen, and Pfizer in the U.S., Puerto Rico, Canada, Europe, and Asia. Weiss is an ongoing student of industry, gaining certifications and training to serve his own goals and the goals of the companies under which he’s served, such as the Scrum Master and Certified Scrum Product Owner certifications.

When asked where his passion in healthcare originated, Weiss explains, “My sister and her husband are medical doctors. My mother, mother-in-law, and sister-in-law are nurses. I have seen first-hand the difficulty of working on the frontlines in healthcare. My hope is to help restore passion to these real-life heroes through professional recognition via the Wambi and Carepostcard platforms.”

Weiss specializes in building high-performing, motivated teams. “I am most excited to be a part of a team of gracious and caring individuals that are trying to make a difference in the lives of those whose job it is to make a difference in patients’ lives.” 

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About Wambi

Wambi is the only real-time patient-driven and peer-to-peer recognition and gratitude platform. Its gamified approach increases employee engagement, reduces clinician burnout, and enhances the patient experience. Wambi gives flight to the personal side of healthcare by surfacing the moments where a human connection makes all the difference, connecting patients and team members and improving the human experience for all. Learn more at http://www.wambi.org.

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