6 Ground-Breaking Innovations That Will Change Healthcare in 2024

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Healthcare innovations

Throughout history, healthcare has constantly evolved to provide patients with the most effective treatment possible. However, with the rise of technology such as AI, there have been new medical breakthroughs that could change healthcare forever. Here are six of the latest healthcare innovations in the industry:

Artificial Intelligence (AI)

One of the biggest healthcare innovations is Artificial Intelligence. In fact, some consider AI to be the biggest healthcare revolution of the 21st century, altering everything from how providers treat patients to the business side of the industry. Lately, AI has been detecting and diagnosing diseases quicker than conventional means. For example, health-tech company Qure.ai is partnering with drug giant AstraZeneca to scale up its deep-learning algorithm, which has already shown a 17% improvement when using AI to examine chest X-rays for lung cancer compared to conventional readings. 

Virtual and Augmented Reality

Virtual Reality (VR) has been aiding patients and hospital staff in unexpected ways. Most notably, VR has been successful in helping patients manage their long-term chronic pain and mental health conditions. Augmented Reality (AR) also provides digital information for surgeons as they work, eliminating the need to look at separate screens. 

3D Printing

The popularity of 3D printing in hospitals has steadily increased throughout the years from only three U.S. hospitals having the facilities for it in 2010 to 113 hospitals in 2019. This is one of the healthcare innovations that has helped create dental implants, replacement joins, and prosthetics. Faster production of these products will reduce their cost in the long term. Other potential uses in the future include manufacturing organs, which may help with the chronic shortage of organs available for transfer. 

Telemedicine 2.0

The popularity of telemedicine skyrocketed because of COVID-19, but remote care is here to stay. In fact, this technology will only advance in the near future. With wearable devices connected to the global network known as the Internet of Things (IoT), healthcare providers can treat their patients from long distances, beyond even the remote consultations that became common during the pandemic. 

Virtual Healthcare Assistants

Along with detecting and diagnosing ailments, AI can mediate between providers and their patients. Virtual assistants and chatbots can help schedule appointments, making it easier for patients to receive the care they need. They also encourage patients to care for themselves by reminding them to take their medication and get plenty of exercise. Lastly, they provide support to clinicians by giving them advice on the patient’s diagnosis and treatment. 

Personalized Medicine

This approach is changing how healthcare providers use technology and data to better serve people individually. Researchers believe that personalized medicine will lead to better patient outcomes and more efficient use of hospital resources. The most advanced case of this practice in action is with genomics, where providers use AI to analyze patients’ DNA as well as personalize their medicine on a molecular level. 

These healthcare innovations will make treatment more manageable and accessible for patients and providers alike. For more healthcare-related content, follow the Avidity Medical Design Blog. Are you interested in learning how a balanced diet can help your body fight off illnesses? For a limited time, the Avidity Medical Design Academy is offering the course “How to Prevent Disease in Your Body by Eating Fruits and Vegetables” for free, along with a Free Action Plan and additional resources. Also, visit the Avidity Medical SCENTations page for sweet-smelling soaps and candles to promote relaxation. 

How to Stay Healthy By Protecting Your Apartment From Bed Bugs

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Massive surges in bed bug infestations have been reported globally in recent months. Paris, a city of over two million, has reported infestations in apartment buildings, hotels, movie theatres, and other communal spaces. Despite the city’s attempt to control the spread, these notoriously difficult-to-eliminate pests have become even more of a problem, with some types showing resistance to traditional pesticides. If you rent an apartment or travel often, knowing how to protect yourself and your home from bed bugs is more important than ever.

Bed Bug Clause in Rental Leases

When you are looking for a new place to call home, it is imperative that before signing a lease, you know what your landlord’s responsibilities are and what yours are as a tenant. Leases can vary state by state in terms of what they are required to include. The same is true for pest control clauses. You may be worried when you see a bed bug clause in a lease agreement. However, you should take this with comfort. It shows that your landlord is taking a proactive approach to bed bug infestations. Apartment buildings are often filled with communal spaces that increase the risk that an infestation can occur by being brought in by one tenant and spreading throughout the building.

When reading through a lease, be sure you understand what to do at the first sign of a possible bed bug problem. Some leases, for example, will certify that your living space is bed bug and pest-free on move-in day. If an infestation does occur in the building, you should report it to management as soon as possible in writing. Failure to report an infestation in a timely manner can lead to a wider outbreak or even leave you on the hook financially for some of the costs of bed bug extermination. By understanding your lease terms, tenants can empower themselves in the event of an infestation.

Proactive Steps to Prevent an Infestation

Bed Bugs typically infest a residence by hitching a ride on your clothes, luggage, or used furniture. When staying in a hotel, you should inspect beds and furniture for signs of bed bugs before unpacking. Bed bugs often hide in cracks, and crevices of furniture and bedding and can be challenging to spot. However, they are visible to the naked eye and will often leave brownish-red stains on furniture and bedding. Even if you don’t see any signs of bed bugs, it is a good idea to exercise caution.

Never place your luggage on a bed, couch, or chair in a hotel room. This can be an easy way for bed bugs to hitch a ride home with you after leaving a hotel. Keep luggage zipped up and secured when not in use. For added protection, use plastic bags to store clothing. When you get back home, wash your clothes with hot water to kill any possible bed bugs hitching a ride. If you are buying old furniture or renting furniture, use a steamer to kill any bed bugs that may be hiding. Taking these simple steps can greatly reduce the odds of an infestation occurring.

Treating a Bed Bug Infestation

Bed bugs are notorious for being difficult to treat. Leave the infestation to the pros and report them as soon as you detect signs. If you suspect bed bugs in your home, purchase cheap glue traps from hardware stores and place them near your bed and furniture for confirmation that an infestation has occurred. Use steamers on furniture, and wash the bedding in hot water to kill bed bugs and larvae. Several pesticides are available in the forum of foggers, but these require the home to be empty of people and pets for extended periods after use. Diatomaceous earth is a natural approach that kills bed bugs and serves as a barrier to prevent re-infestation. The best option for renters is to inform management in writing when they detect an infestation so that professional exterminators can eliminate the outbreak.

Learn More About Healthcare

Healthcare is an ever-changing and evolving industry that requires professionals to stay in the loop of emerging trends and breakthroughs. The Avidity Medical Design Blog is your source for staying up to date with all things healthcare-related. Visit Avidity Medical Design Academy to enroll in our healthcare courses. Visit Avidity Medical Design Consultants to learn more about our healthcare consulting services. Check out Avidity Medical Scentations for candles and soaps with healthcare themes and inspirational healthcare messages.

Understanding patients' rights - Doctor holding the hand of a male patient in a hospital.

15 Things You Should Know About Your Rights as a Patient

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It can be intimidating and confusing to seek out healthcare. However, as a patient, you have certain rights that keep you and your information protected. Here are ten things you should know about patients’ rights in healthcare:

1. You Have the Right to Be Treated Respectfully.

Regardless of health obstacles or disabilities, you should always be treated with respect. Discrimination based on race, gender, national origin, or anything else is not acceptable. Medical treatments can be very personal, and all healthcare providers should treat you with respect, especially during your most vulnerable moments. 

2. You Can Request Your Medical Records at Any Time.

You can request access to your medical records at any time. This includes your test results and other documentation included in your medical record. With electronic health records, access to your medical record is easier than ever. However, some providers may charge a fee. Check with your doctor’s office if you are unsure.  

3. Your Medical Records Should Be Kept Private.

Only you and your doctor, or another authorized healthcare practitioner in the same facility, have the right to see your medical records. In fact, there are substantial legal and monetary consequences if someone gains access to your medical records without your consent. Part of the relationship between the provider and the patient is trust, and you can trust that your medical team will keep your health information protected, unless it will harm someone or the public, for example. In this instance for example, the facility may have the right to break privacy rules. 

4. You Have the Right to Refuse Treatment.

You make the final decision regarding any treatment that you receive. You have the right to refuse care if you choose to do so. If the medical treatment goes against your beliefs or you simply don’t want it, you can refuse treatment. There are a few exceptions to this rule, such as in an emergency or life-threatening situation, or if you are not able to refuse care. By and large however, the final decision is left up to you and any other individuals that you may choose to consult with, such as members of your immediate family or close friends.

5. You have the Right to Informed Consent

Patients’ rights also include informed consent. Before undergoing treatment, you have the right to understand the risks and procedures involved in the treatment, especially if treatment involves undergoing a surgical procedure.

6. You Have the Right to Make an End-of-Life Care Decision

End-of-life care policies vary depending on the state, but you have rights that protect the way that you want to receive end-of-life treatment.

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7. You Can Request Not to Be Weighed

You can choose not to be weighed or you can choose not to have your weight spoken aloud. You can choose how the topic of your weight is handled in terms of discussion.

8. You Can Determine the Individuals Who Enter Your Room

At a general wellness exam or another general appointment, you can decide who comes into your room.

9. You Control Your Own Body.

If something is making you uncomfortable during your medical exam or visit to the hospital, you have the right to speak up and say something, so that the practitioner is aware and can stop immediately.

a close up shot of a woman holding a rosary while praying

10. You Can Have a Faith Representative.

Depending on religion, you might want to have a faith representative who helps you during the appointment or when making decisions relative to medical treatment.

11. You Have the Right to Information.

The medical standard of informed consent gives you the right to information about your care. Before you consent to a procedure or treatment, you should know the risks, benefits, and alternatives to any care that you are contemplating receiving.

12. You Have the Right to Timely Care.

When urgent care is required, you should have timely access to it. If it will not harm your health, longer wait times are acceptable. 

cheerful black patient talking with doctor in hallway of hospital

13. You Have the Right to Get a Second Opinion.

Because of your right to medical choice (right to refuse), you can get a second opinion, or several opinions if you like. 

14. You Should Have Collaborative and Continued Care.

If you require care from a second facility or provider, your original provider should share current treatments and chart notes. 

15. Your Provider Must Disclose Conflicts of Interest Affecting Your Care.

Physicians must share any financial or personal conflicts that may compromise their ability to provide care. 

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These patient rights help ensure that you have quality care and that the care has a minimal negative effect on the quality of your life. The rights stated above make medical care more ethical and humane for all patients.

If you’d like to know more about medical ethics and healthcare, follow the Avidity Medical Design Blog. For healthcare courses, visit Avidity Medical Design Academy. For candles and scented soaps with a healthcare theme, visit Avidity Medical SCENTations.

Medical technology in 2023 concept - Healthcare professional accessing digital healthcare data.

Medical Technology in 2023: What to Expect in Terms of Health Care

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Medical technology in 2023 concept - Healthcare professional accessing digital healthcare data.

Medical technology has come a long way since the early days of healthcare. From improved diagnostics and treatments to new ways of managing chronic conditions, medical technology is transforming healthcare delivery and patients’ lives worldwide. In 2023, we expect to see even more significant impacts on patient care due to medical technology advancements. Let’s look at what to expect from medical technology in 2023 and how it will impact patient care.

The Latest Advances in Medical Technology

Medical technology is rapidly advancing in the 21st century, and 2023 is no different. One of the most exciting advances in medical technology is the development of artificial intelligence (AI) for diagnostics and medical imaging. AI can help analyze medical images to detect abnormalities in the human body. This, in turn, will help healthcare professionals diagnose diseases more quickly and accurately. 

Additionally, genomics and gene editing advances enable researchers to develop treatments tailored to the individual’s genetic makeup. Finally, personalized medicine and precision health make it possible to tailor treatments to each patient’s specific needs, improving care and outcomes. These developments are revolutionizing how healthcare is delivered and will continue to improve patient care, wellness, and the healthcare industry in 2023 and beyond.

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The Impact of These Advances on Patient Care

Medical technology has come a long way in the last few years. We expect to see even more advancements in 2023, which will significantly impact patient care. Some of these advances will include improved diagnostic and therapeutic capabilities, more effective treatments, and improved monitoring capabilities that allow healthcare providers to track a patient’s health from afar.

These advances will provide better treatment and care for patients. They will also lead to improved overall wellness. Patients will benefit from better diagnoses, treatments, and closer monitoring to ensure they get the best possible care.

woman practicing yoga

The Impact of These Advances on Wellness

In 2023, medical technology’s advances will significantly impact wellness. For example, with the development of new technologies such as AI and 3D printing, patients are increasingly able to access personalized treatments that help them manage their condition more effectively. This has helped to improve outcomes and increase levels of well-being. Furthermore, these technologies have made it easier for health professionals to identify areas of concern and intervene quickly and effectively to prevent further problems. All in all, the advances in medical technology will be incredibly beneficial for individual wellness.

people men technology room

The Impact of These Advances on the Healthcare Industry

The advances in medical technology are poised to impact the healthcare industry as a whole significantly. These advancements will reduce costs, improve patient outcomes, and provide more efficient healthcare services. This will ultimately result in better access to care for patients, improved patient satisfaction, and excellent financial stability for healthcare providers. Furthermore, these advances will positively impact society’s overall wellness by providing better treatments, diagnostic tools, and preventive care. These elements will unite to create a healthier, more prosperous society.

Key Takeaways

Advances in medical technology in 2023 are bringing changes to the healthcare industry that are positively affecting patient care, wellness, and the entire healthcare industry. Patients can expect improved diagnoses, better treatments, and more preventive care. Wellness is being promoted through increased access to health services, personalized care plans, and innovative technologies.

For the healthcare industry, advances in medical technology will lead to higher quality care and improved efficiency. Follow the Avidity Medical Design Blog for the most up-to-date information on healthcare. Enroll in a course offered by Avidity Medical Design Academy to learn more about a variety of healthcare subjects. Visit Avidity Medical Scentations to purchase scented candles and soaps with a healthcare theme.

Female doctor speaking with a senior patient in a hospital - choosing the right doctor.

Need a New Physician? 10 Helpful Tips for Choosing a Doctor in the New Year

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When choosing the right doctor, it is essential to do your research and find someone you feel comfortable with and who meets your specific needs. Here are ten tips to help you choose the right doctor for you:

1. Make sure the doctor is board certified.

It means they have completed the necessary training and exams to be considered an expert in their field.

2. Choose a doctor who has experience treating patients with your specific condition.

For example, if you have a rare condition, you will want to ensure the doctor has experience treating other patients with similar situations.

3. Ask about the doctor’s bedside manner.

This is crucial because you want to make sure you feel comfortable with the doctor and that they can put you at ease.

4. Make sure the doctor is available when you need them.

Besides having office hours that work with your schedule, it is important that your doctor is also available for emergencies.

5. Ask about the doctor’s policies on prescription medications and referrals to specialists.

It is essential information to have so that you know what to expect in terms of treatment.

6. Find out if the doctor has any hospital affiliations.

This can impact the quality of care you receive.

7. Ask about the doctor’s policy on accepting new patients.

It is imperative to know so that you can be sure the doctor will have time for you.

8. Ask about the doctor’s fees and insurance policies.

It is necessary to have this information so that you can be prepared financially for your visit.

9. Get recommendations from friends, family, or other healthcare providers.

One of the most common tactics is getting first-hand information about a doctor.

10. Finally, trust your gut.

It is probably not the right fit for you if you don’t feel comfortable with a doctor

Conclusion

Choosing the right doctor is an important decision. We hope these ten tips will help you choose the right doctor for you. For more healthcare information and tips, follow the Avidity Medical Design Blog today. To learn more about our healthcare courses, visit Avidity Medical Design Academy. To purchase healthcare candles and soaps inspired by healthcare, visit Avidity Medical Design SCENTations!

African-American woman smiling during her rush hour daily commute

4 Tips for Limiting Stress During a Long Daily Commute

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African-American woman smiling during her rush hour daily commute

For many people, the most stressful and emotionally draining part of the workday is not work itself. Instead, it’s the cumulative time they spend battling their way through traffic or riding on city buses and commuter trains while packed shoulder-to-shoulder with others. Surprisingly, not only are these trips mentally taxing, but they can also have a significant impact on your physical health. Learning how to effectively mitigate the health risks of a long daily commute is now a critical part of maintaining an acceptably high quality of life. The four tips that follow will show you how.

1. Catch the Train and Get Creative

Riding the train or taking the bus to work will help you avoid the stress and frustration of driving through stop-and-go traffic, and dealing with frantic, frustrated, or all-out inconsiderate motorists. Best of all, you won’t have to keep your hands on the steering wheel or your eyes on the road. You can use your early-morning and evening commute to read a good book, learn how to knit or crochet, or simply meditate and practice mindfulness. Your time spent getting to and from work won’t be wasted. Instead, you’ll be actively improving yourself and expanding your knowledge base.

2. Give Yourself Several In-Car Ways to Stay Entertained

Having ways to while away the minutes or hours that you spend in bumper-to-bumper traffic is a creative dance between keeping yourself entertained and avoiding distracted driving. Use in-vehicle technologies such as mobile phone integration to make hands-free phone calls. This is a great time to ask your kids or spouse how their days are going or to catch up with your friends, parents, or adult siblings. You can also listen to audiobooks, or spend your commute moving through your favorite playlist of relaxing or uplifting tunes.

3. Time Your Commute Smartly

Sometimes delaying a daily commute can significantly shorten its duration. If you hop on the freeway or train at the same time as everyone else, you may be subjecting yourself to unnecessary frustration. Instead, consider hitting a local gym after quitting time to work out your stress on the treadmill. By the time your evening workout session is done, the buses will be emptier and the roads will be less crowded. Sometimes, heading to work just a half-hour earlier can make all the difference as well. If leaving home before the streets are congested proves far less stressful, consider bringing your breakfast to work, putting in time at the gym before your shift starts, or taking a relaxing early-morning walk before heading to your desk.

4. Don’t Move From Stress to Stress

One of the worst things about having a stressful daily commute is the fact that you’ve likely got pressing responsibilities waiting for you the moment you walk in the door. Even before your shoes are off and you’ve had a chance to unwind, you may be worried about cooking dinner, helping small children with their homework, or coming to the aid of teenagers with social angst. Make a point of claiming 15 minutes for yourself from the minute you arrive. This necessary period of de-stressing will make you more focused and responsive when engaging with others. Take a hot shower and change into comfortable clothes. Light a therapeutic candle and soothe yourself into a calm and relaxed state with aromatherapy. 

What Are the Health Risks of a Long Daily Commute?

Super-commuters who ride on the freeway breathe in massive amounts of exhaust and other fumes. People who spend long stretches of time commuting each day are more likely to lead sedentary lifestyles, and to grab fast food on their way home rather than cooking. Driving and riding passenger buses and trains takes a daily toll. Fortunately, you can limit this toll by planning your commute smartly, and by proactively de-stressing with the tips above. For additional help in maintaining mood balance, peace of mind, and an optimally high quality of life, follow the Avidity Medical Design Blog, take a course offered by Avidity Medical Design Academy, or purchase candles and soaps offered by Avidity Medical Scentations.

A couple getting wellness massages on their vacation getaway

Plan Your Next Vacation: 10 Healthcare Getaways for Rest and Rejuvenation

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A couple getting wellness massages on their vacation getaway

When planning to go on vacation, you should opt for places that intentionally help boost your mental, physical, and spiritual wellbeing for a healthy body.

If you’re looking to rest and rejuvenate, you might want to consider some of these health-oriented vacation getaways:

1. Rainforest Spa

This spa is at Sugar Beach, St. Lucia. The spa is located within the hotel in the rainforest. Some treatments offered there include bamboo massage, body wraps, deep tissue massages, hot rocky massages, and even facials. It will cost about $2000 per night to cater for the hotel and spa treatments, which will leave you refreshed. The best time to visit the rainforest spa is around November to December.

2. MGM Grand Las Vegas

This wellness hotel is one of the best vacation getaways in Las Vegas. Choosing to stay in this hotel will enhance your mental and physical wellness greatly. You can take showers that have been infused with vitamin C. This is important for your skin. The bed has specially designed mattresses to give you a good night’s sleep, enhancing your mental health. 

The mini bar in the wellness rooms contains nutritious snacks that will keep your tummy full. The lighting is designed to help your sleep pattern and help your internal body clock.

The best time to enjoy your vacation in MGM Grand Las Vegas is in January–March. A night’s stay will cost around $500.

3. Blue Lagoon

This vacation getaway is in Iceland and is home to one of the wonders of the world. It will help you not only detox but recharge mentally as well. The minerals in the lagoon will help your skin to glow and rejuvenate. Admission tickets go for $110 and the best time to go there is from July to August.

4. Mii Amo

Looking for vacation getaways in the U.S.? Mii Amo is located in Sedona, Arizona, and is all about self-nurturing. You will enjoy healthy food and native-inspired treatments. This will leave your body, mind, and spirit refreshed. The resort charges about $500 per night, and the best time to visit is in October.

5. Four Seasons Resort

This tranquil resort is located in Chiang Mai in Thailand. There are a lot of activities that are planned for visitors in this beautiful resort. 

You can plant rice, sign up for a boot camp, or even chat with monks to understand their traditions. A night’s stay costs around $550. The best time to vacay there is in February.

6. Aire Ancient Baths

The spa is located in Barcelona. You will do something that most people would enjoy doing, such as soaking in a tub full of wine. This is normally done in a thermal tub. The main reason for doing that is to hydrate the skin.
You can also enjoy a facial and scalp massage which will leave your skin and spirit glowing. You will be charged about $121.83 at the entrance. You can go there any time of the year but the best time is from January to the end of February.

7. Red Mountain Resort 

The resort rests in St. George, Utah. With various activities like hiking or rock climbing, this vacation getaway will help you release the tension and frustrations of life. It will cost you about $350 per night at this place. The best time to go there is between April and May.

8. Las Alamandas 

Nestled in Costalegre, Mexico, the expansive land allows you to choose whether you want to be alone or mingle with others. 

You will enjoy relaxing massages at the beach with no one around except the sand, water, and waves. A room goes for about $800, excluding taxes. The best time to vacation there is in November-December. 

9. Golden Door 

This relaxing retreat is in San Marcos, California. You will enjoy the Zen vibe that surrounds it. It allows you to focus on yourself as they cater to all your other needs. 

They bring you clothes to wear and food to eat, so you don’t have to make any decisions while you are there. They charge about $300 per night. The best months to go there are in March and April. 

10. Rancho La Puerta

You will find this wellness vacation spot in Baja, California, Mexico. Here there are a lot of wellness activities to indulge in such as yoga. The instructors are always ready to hear and cheer you on as you empty your heavy, burdened heart for a refreshed one. 

You can enjoy delicious meals at their restaurant for about $30. The ranch charges about $800 per room. The best time to head there is in September–October.   

Conclusion

Make a plan to spend your next vacation while taking care of your wellbeing. And before you go on your trip, don’t forget to check out Avidity Medical Scentations. Grab our scented candles and soaps to rejuvenate your spirit and refresh your soul. Sign up for product notifications so that you will know when the products are available. Each bar of soap and each candle includes a healthcare message to remind you to take care of your health, to stay encouraged, and continue to be rejuvenated. Follow the Avidity Medical Design Blog for the latest news in healthcare. 

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The Hottest Top 10 Healthcare Apps That You Should Know About

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Doctor reviewing a healthcare app used by his senior patient

It is no secret that doctor’s visits for routine examinations can be a pain and hassle to schedule. Luckily, with the aid of technology, many digital options have been created to overcome these issues. Certain medical applications allow you to track and report your health, receive medical notifications, connect with your doctor, and even allow you to conduct virtual visits. According to HP, the following are some of the most highly ranked healthcare apps in their respective industries:

1. Medisafe Pill Minder

The Medisafe Pill Minder and Tracker keeps track of your prescriptions so that you will not forget to take them. It has doctor visit management and appointment-reminder functions that are accessible for both Android and iOS. The app also offers health-monitoring trackers.   

2. Medical ID

Imagine if you and your phone are found while you are immobile due to a medical emergency and unable to communicate about your issues. This app allows you to store medical profiles in your phone so that medics can see important information about you before attending to your needs. 

3. dminder

The health benefits of vitamin D for the immune system are very well-known, but sadly, most don’t get enough of it. With this app, you can be reminded when to go outside based on which times are optimal for sun exposure. This makes it one of the most unique healthcare apps available out there. 

4. MyFitnessPal

MyFitnessPal is one of the most popular diet-tracking and healthcare apps available for Android and iOS devices. It is also accessible via PC. You can use the app to establish weight and exercise goals, make meal schedules, and connect it with other fitness-tracking accessories.   

5. Diabetes:M

Diabetes:M is Android and iOS software that is aimed at assisting diabetics in taking some of the mystery out of controlling their glucose levels.   

6. Apple Health

This app is a mind and body health tracker that is found in all Apple devices by default. Sleep, activity, food, symptoms, respiration, and heart rate are some of the vitals it monitors. 

7. Heal

Heal allows you to receive access to certified doctors without needing to physically travel. Appointments are offered through both telehealth and in-person visits.

8. Eyecare Live

This app is concerned with helping you connect to a virtual optometrist to discuss eye-related health issues. Eyecare Live also lets you renew certain prescriptions virtually.

9. AliveCor

When you use the AliveCor app with one of the company’s licensed Kardia heart monitoring devices, you will be able to access a certified EKG recording whenever you desire. The app also identifies bradycardia, atrial fibrillation, tachycardia, and resting heart activity live. 

10. Drugs.com medication guide

Drugs.com allows users to better understand the side effects and guidelines of their medication. The premium version allows for additional information and tracking features. 

For more information on health and medical design-related topics, follow the Avidity Medical Design Blog. For an even more in-depth understanding of healthcare-related topics, enroll in a course offered by Avidity Medical Design Academy In addition to using healthcare apps to monitor your health, invest in soothing treatments and at-home therapies such as scented candles and soaps. Visit Avidity Medical Scentations to sign up for product notifications for scented soaps and candles with healthcare reminder messages. These messages help you remember the importance of good health and maintaining a healthy mindset for everyday living.

pharmacists-doing-inventory

A Day in the Life of A Pharmacist: What Happens Behind the Scenes of Your Local Pharmacy

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Pharmacists are health professionals who regularly dispense medications in pharmacies throughout the world. Pharmacists are on the front lines of patient care, and as a result, they face stressful situations that other medical personnel may not encounter in the same way or to the same extent. Let’s take a look at some of the challenges that pharmacists routinely face while working in the pharmacy and filling prescriptions.

Pharmacists must face:

Multiple Medication-Related Responsibilities.

Because pharmacists are responsible for all aspects of medication handling, they deal with many additional responsibilities that go beyond filling requests for prescriptions. In addition to understanding medication ingredients, how medications should be prescribed, and how medications interact with other medications that the patient may be taking at the same time, pharmacists must also be able to interact with patients. They must be able to answer patient questions regarding potential medication side effects, as well as effectively communicate with doctors, hospitals, and 3rd-party insurance firms, regarding insurance payment and the remaining number of available refills based on the doctor’s order.

Demographics in Relation to Prescribing Medications.

As the American population changes, pharmacists interact with patients from various socioeconomic and religious backgrounds. Differences in socioeconomic and religious backgrounds may influence the way in which some patients may perceive medicine, healthcare in general, the types of prescriptions they are required to take, and the frequency with which they are required to take medications, according to their doctor.

Separation of Medical/Pharmacy Benefits.

The current healthcare system is extremely complicated and segmented, particularly in terms of pharmacy compensation. Patients and pharmacists may find the separation of medical and pharmacy rewards confusing, especially in terms of contractual arrangements such as value-based contracting (VBC). Value-based contracting is a contract whereby the pharmacy has to fulfill certain requirements, based on the outcome of the patient’s treatment and other clinical conditions pertaining to patient care, rather than being compensated on a fee-for-service arrangement, for example. Since the process of determining the outcome of the patient’s health based on the medications provided must be gauged over time, it can become complicated for pharmacies, in terms of understanding how they will be compensated.

A Shortage of Drugs.

Another challenge that pharmacists may also face is a shortage of prescription drugs. Sometimes, if a drug has a low cost margin, the manufacturers may stop producing the drug. The biggest shortages have hit the old, generic, and injectable drugs that were once produced by small production companies.

Dealing with Drug Addicts.

Prescription addiction is a huge problem in the US, and the retail pharmacist interacts with drug addicts regularly. This means that the pharmacist has to determine whether the prescription being filled is a legitimate prescription, or if the patient may be a drug addict who is trying to fill additional prescriptions beyond the number of refills authorized by their physician.

The Aging Population.

The mortality rate of Americans is increasing, this presents a lot of challenges for pharmacists, for instance, older patients are usually in need of long-term care while others may be taking numerous types of medicines or suffering from chronic diseases. The increases the likelihood of filling medications that may have adverse side effects when interacting with the components of other medications.

Managing the Use of Opioids.

In addition to dealing with patients who have become addicted to prescription medications, pharmacists deal with patients who overuse their medication by exceeding the recommended dosage as prescribed by their doctor. This may be due to chronic conditions, such as ongoing back pain. Dealing with this type of situation can be especially challenging as a pharmacist, because the pharmacist must be patient, have good judgment, and top-notch communication skills, especially if they are speaking with a patient who may become argumentative when discussing the risks and dangers of medication overuse.

Ethical Challenges.

Pharmacists must figure out how to organize their duties and responsibilities to perform tasks effectively and efficiently. In addition to providing prescription guidance to patients, pharmacists must also conduct a prospective drug review, which at times might be challenging, especially in relation to managing the pharmacy workload.

Optimizing Time to Provide Better Health Care Services.

Pharmacists walk a thin line between filling prescriptions and determining which patients need help with understanding potential medication side effects and devoting time to their special needs. This involves reviewing individual cases which at times can be tiresome or challenging, especially when numerous patients are waiting to pick up their prescriptions, and more than one patient needs advice with regard to their medication or their insurance coverage with regard to prescription copays, for example.

Challenges that Come with Monitoring Medication Compliance.

Pharmacists must determine which patients are not complying with taking their medications. This involves noticing how long it has taken a patient to refill their prescriptions, especially if the prescriptions must be filled at regular monthly intervals.

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three young women with Internet addiction using their smartphones in a cafe

Healthcare and Internet Addiction: Is the Internet Affecting Your Health?

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three young women with Internet addiction using their smartphones in a cafe

Most of us associate addiction with excessive drug or alcohol use. These forms of addiction are often referred to as chemical dependency. When a person is addicted to substances, key changes have occurred within the functioning of the central nervous system (CNS), the brain’s chemistry, and even the brain’s size. As a result of these alterations, stopping “cold turkey” often leads to widespread physiological distress. So how can addiction possibly apply to the Internet? In a world in which people constantly carry Internet-connected devices with them and use these devices all of the time, Internet addiction is fast becoming a reality. Worse still, it affects people at every age and stage of life. Internet addicts can be eight years old or 80. What’s common among them is that they cannot stop or limit their Internet use without experiencing withdrawal symptoms.

Understanding the Brain’s Reward Pathway and Its Role in Addiction

People use addictive substances or engage in addictive behaviors simply because doing so feels good. With drugs and alcohol, using these substances instantly triggers the release of “feel good” chemicals or neurotransmitters. These chemicals are normally and naturally produced and released as a means for rewarding positive and ultimately beneficial behaviors. For instance, you might get a dopamine rush following a rigorous workout. Other neurotransmitters might be released in response to healthy social engagement, choosing to eat a salad for lunch rather than an ice cream cone, or doing something good for others. When the brain’s reward system is working effectively, people are being motivated to repeat beneficial behaviors via the release of “feel good” chemicals.

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Reconditioning the Reward Pathway Creates the Conditions for Addiction

The path to addiction is found when the production and release of neurotransmitters are being manipulated by an outside agent. Rather than using hard liquor, opiates, tobacco, or other chemical substances to trigger neurotransmitters, some people are using the Internet.

The Internet promises instant gratification, immersive distractions, and even alternate realities that remove people entirely from the stressors of real life. Using the Internet makes some people feel relaxed and euphoric, and it does so by manipulating the brain’s reward pathway.

Much like substance use disorder and alcohol use disorder, Internet addiction can actually wear the reward pathway out, alter the functioning of the brain’s reward pathway, and associate unhealthy overuse with beneficial behaviors. When the Internet is taken away, much like any other addict, an addicted person will feel depressed, angry, frustrated, unmotivated, and unsure. These are just a few of the many common signs of Internet addiction and withdrawal.

Comorbidities and Internet Addiction

There’s also the surprising addition of comorbidities that can make Internet addiction diagnosis and treatment all the more challenging. Given the relatively recent advent of the Internet, much is still not understood about Internet addiction. This is an addictive mechanism that’s constantly changing, and one that’s becoming increasingly more pervasive with each new web-connected innovation and service. Are people with general anxiety disorder, bipolar disorder, depressive disorder, or other secondary mental health issues at greater risk?

And what of sexual addiction? Does the repeated viewing of online pornographic materials qualify as Internet addiction or sexual addiction? When a person suffers from both, can the same treatment modalities and recommendations be used?

Strategies for Treating Internet Addiction

Ignoring the symptoms of an addict in withdrawal is hardly a beneficial or ethical form of treatment. Much like people detoxing from drugs or alcohol, Internet addicts can experience significant discomfort when their “drug of choice” is taken away. Moreover, given the changes that have occurred across the brain’s reward pathway, this isn’t merely perceived discomfort; it’s genuine, legitimate, and difficult to navigate without intervention. For healthcare professionals, finding the right interventions for individual needs is key to preventing total relapse.

One of the biggest challenges of treating addiction to the Internet is the fact that total cessation is rarely an option. The Internet is both pervasive and essential. People have to use it from time to time. When treating alcohol use disorder or substance use disorder, you certainly wouldn’t tell a patient to moderate their alcohol or drug use. Addiction treatment for these things requires total, lifelong abstinence, and ongoing strategies for preventing relapse. With Internet addiction, successful intervention often entails encouraging people to find new and more beneficial ways of triggering their reward pathway, whether by engaging in physical exercise or taking advantage of naturally relaxing stimuli such as the scented candles and soothing soaps offered by Avidity Medical Scentations. Sign up now for product notifications to learn when the candles and soaps will be available. Follow our blog to learn more about common health issues and to stay up to date on the latest news in healthcare.