Tag: technology and healthcare

As the COVID-19 pandemic rages on due to the Delta variant, vaccination has become an issue, unnecessarily. Vaccines are widely available, and are proven to be effective, however many Americans worry about their safety and whether or not they are needed. Studies have demonstrated that any of the COVID-19 vaccines will protect those who receive them from getting very sick from the virus – and should also help to stop it from spreading. 

Although more than 50% of Americans have already received their vaccine, others are still waiting. It is important for people living with a serious illness and their loved ones to receive the vaccine as soon as possible, to avoid getting sick from COVID-19 – and wear masks when in high-transmission areas of the country, even after vaccination.  

To learn more, we spoke with palliative care doctor, Dr. Anthony Back, who shared what all patients and families need to know.  … Read More

By Andy Esch, MD

Parkinson’s disease is a slowly progressing and long-lasting condition that can cause many challenges to those diagnosed and their families. In addition to affecting muscle movement, it can impact mood and cognitive abilities; involve pain; cause sleep disturbances and other distressing symptoms. While it’s not curable, much can be done to manage the disease and its symptoms. For example, patients and families can ask for a referral to a palliative care team — a medical team that focuses on improving quality of life and relief of symptoms and stress caused by living with serious illnesses.  … Read More

The COVID-19 virus is still circulating in the U.S. and millions of people are testing positive.  Thankfully, most who come down with COVID-19 don’t have to be hospitalized. Even so, for many the symptoms can be extensive and recovery can take weeks or months. 

Listen to one woman’s COVID-19 experience, including the palliative care she received that helped keep her at home, and how she coped through six weeks with more than a dozen different and debilitating symptoms.  

This is Bobye’s story. … Read More

As a new virus, there is limited information on the risk factors for COVID-19 (coronavirus). But data show that people of any age with serious medical conditions, such as kidney disease, might be at higher risk. This includes anyone with diabetes; undergoing dialysis for chronic kidney disease; or having a kidney transplant due to use of medicines that can weaken the immune system. And as much of the country begins to phase in routine activities, it’s more important than ever to remain safe and know what to do if you feel sick. … Read More

While having dementia or Alzheimer’s disease aren’t known to increase the risk for coronavirus, other factors may. These include advanced age, and having additional serious medical conditions such as heart disease, respiratory illnesses, diabetes and kidney failure. In addition, infections in general are frequently missed among people with dementia, which could lead to worsening cognitive abilities. 

Also, depending on the stage of the disease, communication may be difficult. Since much of the time, a family member is the main caregiver, it’s important to have a plan to stay safe during this uniquely challenging and stressful time.   … Read More

Everything is uncertain now, especially for people living with a serious illness. Everyone is worrying about what to expect and how to prepare for COVID-19. After all, we know so little and there is still no treatment. But Diane Meier, MD, director of the Center to Advance Palliative Care, offers insight and answers to the most common questions.  … Read More

During the COVID-19 pandemic, telemedicine may be the safest – and sometimes the only – option for people to speak with their palliative care teams or other health care professionals. To slow the spread of the virus, telemedicine makes it possible for you to remain inside your home when you need to speak with your doctor. 

The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS), the largest health care payer in the country, has temporarily waived rules to allow more flexibility during this public health emergency. Patients and families can also learn more by going to the telehealth section of the Health and Human services website.

Below, we have put together quick and easy tips that will help you get ready for your visit.  … Read More

Everyone is worrying about what to expect and how to prepare for COVID-19. After all, we know so little and there is still no treatment. In two interviews with Dr. Diane Meier, director of CAPC (the Center to Advance Palliative Care), ARCHANGELS Co-Founder and CEO, Alexandra Drane, gets at the core of what’s waking us up at night, including how do we make decisions and how do we actually feel human instead of just medical specimens. Diane makes us feel more in control and feel better about our COVID19 worries… she clears up confusion, addresses the fears many of us have, recommends three things we can all do right now to be prepared–and she makes it not scary. We can all feel good about telling a friend to watch these videos. … Read More

If you are a transplant recipient, you may be wondering how the Coronavirus (COVID-19) might affect you. Since it is a new virus, doctors are still learning about it and its potential effect on transplant recipients. Doctors Meenakshi Rana and Andrew E. Esch share tips and answer frequently asked questions.* … Read More

If you or a loved one are living with a chronic lung disease or other respiratory condition, you may be wondering how Coronavirus (COVID-19) could affect you. Below, doctors Louis R. DePalo and Andrew E. Esch share tips and answer frequently asked questions.* … Read More