What is new in the field of Health. Trending topics, and cutting edge research in the are of Health. Press Releases that give us updates on Health.
Hospital excels at serving people of color in its community, according to healthcare think tank FORT WASHINGTON, Md., Oct. 5, 2023 /PRNewswire/ — Adventist HealthCare Fort Washington Medical Center has been recognized by the Lown Institute for success in serving communities of color,…
In 2023, a total of 72 hospitals and health care organizations nationwide earned recognition through documented efforts to reduce system-level drivers of burnout and demonstrated competencies in commitment, assessment, leadership, efficiency of practice environment, teamwork, and support.
Those winners were recognized in gold, silver and bronze categories – AHN was one of 26 organizations to receive a silver-level recognition.
“At AHN, we recognize that our community’s health depends on the well-being of our health care workforce, which is why we’re working so hard to mitigate work-related clinician burnout and promote clinical wellness at all professional levels, and at all sites of care,” said Thomas Campbell, MD, AHN vice president and medical director of Clinician Wellness. “While we know that this is an ongoing improvement journey, we’re thrilled to be recognized by the AMA for our achievements in 2023.”
Burnout rates among the nation’s physicians and other health care professionals spiked dramatically as the COVID-19 pandemic placed acute stress on care teams and exacerbated long-standing system issues. While the worst days of the pandemic have passed, the lingering impact of work-related burnout remains an obstacle to achieving national health goals.
“Health organizations that have earned recognition from the AMA’s Joy in Medicine Health System Recognition Program are leading a national movement that has declared the well-being of health professionals to be an essential element for providing high-quality care to patients, families, and communities,” said AMA President Jesse M. Ehrenfeld, MD, MPH. “Each ‘Joy in Medicine’-recognized organization is distinguished as among the nation’s best at creating a culture of wellness that makes a difference in the lives of clinical care teams.”
At AHN, the wellness team measures burnout symptoms through extensive annual surveys. For every category of clinician surveyed – physician, advanced practice provider, nurse, nurse manager, and resident – AHN’s burnout rates are well below the national rates for 2023. Additionally, from 2022 to 2023, self-reported burnout rates dropped for AHN physicians, APPs, nurse managers, and nurses.
Notably, nursing burnout rates at AHN have dropped by 35 percent since 2021. In that time, AHN has implemented a number of wellness strategies, and has worked with counterparts at Highmark Health to reimagine the nursing profession, allowing for more flexible work shifts and creating remote nursing teams.
One of the unique features of AHN’s wellness survey is that it includes team members from across the network — not just clinicians, techs and patient-facing caregivers, but also non-patient-facing team members, such as those in billing or information services. AHN also surveys support staff, such as environmental services workers, nutrition workers and cafeteria staff, security, and transport workers.
“The factors behind a physician’s burnout are going to be much different than someone working in nutrition,” said Donald Whiting, MD, chief medical officer for AHN. “Surveying everyone allows us to create a much more accurate portrait of wellness across our entire organization.”
The survey also illustrates that there’s no magic pill for relieving burnout across the medical professions — physicians in the ICU might feel burnout more acutely, and for different reasons, than those working in radiology or an outpatient setting. Nurses working the overnight shift might worry about emergency room safety, while those working during the day might be so busy that they don’t have time to take water breaks.
“Listening to all those different concerns, and following through on the issues raised, makes a huge difference for our caregivers — and ultimately for our patients,” said Michele Tucci, senior vice president, Executive Strategic Programs for AHN.
Since its inception in 2019, the Joy in Medicine™ Health System Recognition Program has recognized just over 100 organizations across the country.
“The goal of the Joy in Medicine Health System Recognition Program is to unite the health care community in building a nationwide culture committed to the well-being of clinical care teams by helping health organizations invest in action plans promoting professional fulfillment and meaning that clinicians find in caring for their patients,” said Christine Sinsky, MD, AMA vice president of professional satisfaction.
Learn more about the AMA Joy in Medicine™ Health System Recognition Program at ama-assn.org/joyinmedicine. The AMA is a professional association for physicians and medical students that promotes the art and science of medicine and advocates for the betterment of public health.
Media Contact
Sarafina Brooks James, Allegheny Health Network, 412- 609-2902, [email protected], https://www.ahn.org
SOURCE Allegheny Health Network
LOS ANGELES, Oct. 5, 2023 /PRNewswire/ — APLA Health announced that the 38th annual AIDS Walk Los Angeles will be held in the City of West Hollywood, on Sunday, October 15. Individuals and Teams can register now at no cost on the AIDS Walk Los Angeles website (www.aidswalk.la). They can…
The purpose of PPOM is to enrich the quality of life for seriously ill patients and the pets they love. PPOM supports the human animal bond by training human healthcare organizations to build robust volunteer-driven programs to help patients preserve the bond with their pets.
“We were the first hospice in Florida to join the Pet Peace of Mind Program and it has been a privilege to provide this program for our patients for the last 12 years,” said Diane Anderson, manager of volunteer services, Cornerstone Hospice. “Pets relieve so much of the stress and anxiety that comes from dealing with a chronic illness. That makes this program essential and we’re excited for the impact it can have on more patients as it becomes fully integrated throughout the Chapters Health System of affiliates.”
“The longevity and steadfastness of their program is remarkable and demonstrates the importance they place on the program to help patients with a critical service which provides comfort and support,” said Dianne McGill, president of Pet Peace of Mind. “We congratulate Cornerstone Hospice for their outstanding commitment to their Pet Peace of Mind program.”
About Chapters Health System
As a progressive leader and premier healthcare organization, Chapters Health System is dedicated to delivering innovative care throughout chronic illness progression and beyond. Since 1983 as a community-based, not-for-profit organization, Chapters Health has provided choices, education and guidance through its managed affiliates. All offerings are provided to improve the patient/family experience well in advance of end-of-life needs. In 2023, Chapters Health was named a Top Workplaces USA award-winner; in 2022, earned certified status for information security from HITRUST and for the sixth consecutive year was recognized as a great workplace in the Aging Services category by the independent analysts at the Great Place to Work® Institute. To learn more, visit http://www.chaptershealth.org, like us on Facebook or follow us on X and LinkedIn.
About Cornerstone Hospice
Cornerstone Hospice, an affiliate of Chapters Health System, is a community-based, not-for-profit organization providing care and support programs to families impacted by life-limiting illnesses. Nearly 7,000 people in Hardee, Highlands, Lake, Marion, Orange, Osceola, Polk and Sumter counties in Florida and Cherokee, Cobb, Fulton, and Gwinnett counties in Georgia benefit from Cornerstone programs each year. Enhanced patient and family care is made possible through the generous support of individuals and groups. For more information, visit http://www.cornerstonehospice.org.
About Pet Peace of Mind
Pet Peace of Mind is a 501(c)(3) organization headquartered in Salem, Oregon. Since 2009, we have partnered with hospice, home health care organizations, and hospitals to enrich the quality of life and well-being of their patients by providing programming to help care for the pets they love. Our program provides a turnkey approach to help healthcare partners establish a local program to train volunteers to help patients with their pet care needs. Our vision is to ensure every seriously ill patient has the support they need to maintain the loving bond with their pets and that no pet is left homeless after the passing of their human companion.
Media Contact
Austin Mudd, Chapters Health System, 813-310-4690, [email protected], chaptershealth.org
SOURCE Chapters Health System
TORRINGTON, Conn., Oct. 5, 2023 /PRNewswire/ — Therap Services, the leading provider of electronic record and documentation services for agencies and care professionals supporting individuals within Long-Term Services & Supports (LTSS), Home & Community Based Services (HCBS), and other…
ATLANTA, Oct. 5, 2023 /PRNewswire/ –The National Association of Chronic Disease Directors (NACDD) is pleased to announce the release of a new, groundbreaking Social Justice Framework, which was created to provide public health practitioners with a blueprint for embedding social justice…
Collaboration Will Accelerate Development of Treatments for Neurofibromatosis and Schwannomatosis Patients NEW YORK, Oct. 5, 2023 /PRNewswire/ — The Children’s Tumor Foundation (NEW YORK, NY and BRUSSELS, BELGIUM) and the Global Coalition for Adaptive Research (LARKSPUR, CA) – The…
“Our mission is to empower individuals to take control of their health and experience true vitality and help our patients lead happier, more fulfilling lives,” says Dr. Erez Dayan.
More about Dr. Erez Dayan:
Dr. Erez Dayan completed his training at the elite Harvard Plastic Surgery program before earning a fellowship in aesthetic surgery at the world-class Dallas Plastic Surgery Institute. Dr. Dayan provides comprehensive aesthetic treatments for the face, breast and body, as well as reconstructive surgery. At his practice Avance Plastic Surgery Institute, which is located at located at 5588 Longley Lane, Suite B, in Reno/Tahoe, Nevada, Dr. Dayan offers cutting-edge technology, surgical procedures and a full range of aesthetic facial and body treatments. To learn more about EMET Medical Wellness and schedule a consultation, please call 775.799.EMET(3638) or visit http://www.emetwell.com.
Media Contact
Dr. Erez Dayan, EMET Medical Wellness, 775-799-3638, [email protected], https://emetwell.com/
SOURCE EMET Medical Wellness
VaxTRIALS permet à l’entreprise de disposer d’une nouvelle base en Amérique latine et d’approfondir la recherche sur les vaccins ROCKVILLE, Md., 5 octobre 2023 /PRNewswire/ — Emmes, une organisation mondiale de recherche clinique (CRO) à services complets qui se consacre à l’avancement…
The average lifespan of tile is 17 years. That adds up to 51 billion square feet (about twice the area of Rhode Island) of tile currently installed in the United States. That’s enough tile, when placed end to end, to reach the moon 41 times.
Why is this important?
The question ‘What’s lurking in your grout?’ is important because with every foot of tile there is always grout. You can’t have tile without grout. And with that much tile just imagine how much grout we have.
The vast majority of grout is a seemingly innocuous, cement-based material. Most construction, renovation, and installation often overlook or underestimate the hidden dangers and subsequent impact that grout can have on you, your loved ones and the environment.
Grout’s Hidden Dangers
Grout is made with many potentially harmful or hazardous materials, but they are usually gone once the installation process is complete. However, many grouts have additives, like pesticides, that are intended to improve mold and mildew resistance, and this is where the real problems begin.
Pesticides can cause short-term adverse health effects, called acute effects, as well as chronic adverse effects that can occur months or years after exposure.
Pesticides in Grout: What You Need to Know
Some people are more vulnerable than others to pesticide impacts. For example, infants and young children who are often crawling or playing on the floor, are known to be more susceptible than adults to the toxic effects of pesticides.
Chronic health effects include cancer and other tumors; brain and nervous system damage; birth defects; infertility and other reproductive problems; and damage to the liver, kidneys, lungs and other body organs. Chronic effects may not appear for weeks, months or even years after exposure, making it difficult to link health impacts to pesticides.
When browsing grout options, you might come across terms like “Mold Protector Plus” or “Micro-Never.” These labels indicate that the grout contains pesticides, which could be harmful to both you and the environment. While some manufacturers may develop their own exclusive brands or trade names, the presence of such additives should raise concerns.
The Role of the EPA in Grout Additives
Grout additives are often registered with the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) for mold and mildew resistance. Why would an EPA-registered additive be a cause for concern? Just because a substance is registered for a specific use, doesn’t necessarily mean it’s safe, or even necessary, for your home.
Many of the chemicals added to grout are biocides or toxins that have been rated as high-level carcinogens. Some additives, like Silver Ion, are heavy metals that can have a detrimental impact on the environment. According to a 1997 white paper from the US Forestry Service, Silver poses a significant long-term threat to aquatic life and plants, making it a greater concern than other heavy metals like mercury or lead.
As validation of this point, it’s important to note that the world’s largest retailer has begun an initiative towards achieving 100% Metal Free Antimicrobials (MFAs) on all consumer goods.
The Effectiveness of Grout Additives
It’s also important to question the actual effectiveness of grout additives in preventing mold and mildew growth. The only way these chemicals can work is to leach out of the grout. However, because grout has a high pH (9) for its first two years, it can inhibit mold and mildew growth on its own.
This begs the question, are the additives still present and effective by the time the grout becomes susceptible to mold and mildew growth or have these toxins fully leached out and poisoned the people, animals and environment around it.
Greenwashing in the Grout Industry
Many grout manufacturers claim their products are “green” or environmentally friendly, yet they still include biocides in their grout to make marketing claims. The reality is these additives might not provide any actual protection against mold and mildew and might not be desirable for your home or the environment.
The Impact on Your Home and the Environment
When choosing grout, it is essential to consider both the environment and the health of those living in your home. Do you want your pets or young children exposed to metals or biocides? When labels mention mold or mildew protection, it’s time to seek better alternatives.
Introducing Litokol: A Healthier and Safer Grout Alternative
A 2016 European Union funded initiative and independently certified R&D project named Project ZERO (Zero Environmental Risks in Our buildings) has resulted in a generational advancement in safety. The results are the very first-time tile installation products have no risks to the installers, in transportation, on jobsites or homes, and no negative environmental risks normally associated with high performance installation products. All these products are now referred to as ZHERORisk Products® (an H added for Health)
Litokol, a company based in Rubiera, Italy, offers ZHERORisk a safer, cleaner, and greener solution for your tile and stone projects. Their grouts, like the Litokol Starlike Grouts, do not contain biocides, as they believe they are unnecessary. These grouts are waterproof, impervious to water, and never need sealing, making them resistant to mold and mildew growth.
Why Choose Litokol?
Litokol Starlike Grouts are pet-friendly, environmentally friendly, and free of volatile organic compounds (VOCs). They are available on Amazon, HomeDepot.com, Walmart.com, Lowes.com and in stores like Floor and DIcor. By choosing Litokol Starlike Grouts, you are opting for a healthier and safer alternative for your home and the environment.
Make Informed Choices for Your Home
When selecting grout for your tile and stone installations, it’s crucial to be aware of the potential dangers lurking in the additives used by some manufacturers. Prioritize the health and safety of your family and the environment by seeking out alternatives like Litokol Starlike Grouts, which are free of harmful biocides and heavy metals.
Remember, if the grout label states “Protected by ________” or mentions mold and mildew resistance, it’s time to put that bag of potentially toxic grout down and opt for a safer choice. Choose Litokol Starlike Grouts for a cleaner, greener, and healthier home.
This press release sheds light on these concerns and presents a safer, healthier alternative.
References:
Media Contact
Curt Rapp, The Tile Doctor, 1 770-447-0061, [email protected], https://tiledoctor.com
SOURCE The Tile Doctor
