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Smart Choices for Your Health: Resources for selecting a provider

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(Family Features) Getting health care for yourself or a loved one is a big responsibility, especially if you’re just getting started with Medicare or have changes in your life, such as a new diagnosis of a condition or disease. It can be overwhelming if you need services like nursing home care, have to find a new doctor or get home health care.  

Using online tools like “Find Care Providers” on Medicare.gov can make it easier to make comparisons and help choose doctors, hospitals, nursing homes and more for you or the person you are helping provide care to. Consider these benefits of using the comparison tools to narrow your options.

A Resource for Research

The website provides a simple search and compare experience that allows you to find providers near you. Simply put in a ZIP code and the type of provider to receive a list of providers, their contact information and a map of locations. The information even includes “star ratings” and services provided. The tool can be used to find all sorts of providers, including doctors, hospitals, home health care agencies, skilled nursing facilities, rehabilitation providers, hospice and dialysis facilities.

For example, two sisters needed to find a nursing home that was right for their father. This proved to be a difficult, emotional decision. They didn’t know what nursing homes were in the area where he lives, so they entered his ZIP code and searched for nursing homes. They then received a list of each one in his area, complete with ratings as well as staffing data and inspection reports.

Using a laptop, desktop, tablet or mobile device, you can see how patients rate their care experiences at the hospitals in your area and find home health agencies that offer the services you might need, like nursing care, physical therapy and occupational therapy.

Contact information for local inpatient rehabilitation facilities or long-term care hospitals is available, as well as hospice quality care ratings and specific care details, such as which dialysis facilities offer home dialysis training.

Finding Health Care Services

Many factors influence who you trust with your health care. In some cases, family, caregivers or friends may offer referrals to a doctor or medical facility based on their own experiences, and that can be a helpful guide.

Whether you have referrals or are starting from scratch, you can compare health care providers near you using the Medicare.gov tool, pinpointing which category of services you need, whether it’s doctors and clinicians, hospitals, hospice and home health agencies, dialysis facilities, inpatient rehabilitation centers or nursing homes.

In addition to searching by your location using your address or a combination of city, state or ZIP code, you can search by provider type and keyword to generate a list of providers that could fit your needs.

Finding a Doctor Who Fits

When you’re looking for a new doctor and not sure where to start, the tool makes it quick and easy to find and compare doctors in your area. You can find contact information, practice locations, specialty and hospital affiliation as well as hospital ratings. 

Selecting the “compare” button allows you to compare up to three different health care providers at once. When you’re ready to schedule a visit with a new provider, be sure to take time during your scheduling call to verify general information, like the office location, whether the office is accepting new patients with Medicare and whether you need a referral to be treated.

Comparing Nursing Homes

Whether you’re planning ahead or need to make an unexpected decision, there’s a lot to think about when choosing the right nursing home for you or someone else. Many family members and caregivers prioritize location so they’re able to check in and visit frequently, but there are many other important factors you may want to consider, too.

The comparison tool at Medicare.gov provides filtering options that allow you to personalize your results by sifting through the criteria that matter most to you, such as inspection results, number of beds, staffing data and more.

You’ll be able to check out the nursing home’s overall “star ratings.” The information can serve as a guide of a provider’s track record to help assist you with finding a home that best suits the person’s needs.

Visit Medicare.gov/care-compare to access the tool and find health care providers and services in your area that fit your needs.

Paid for by the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services.

Caregiver Guide

Making decisions as a caregiver can be challenging but taking advantage of available resources can help you feel more confident in your choices.

For example, Medicare.gov allows you to find information about health care providers, hospitals, nursing homes, hospice, home health agencies, dialysis facilities, inpatient rehab and long-term care hospitals near you. The website also provides quality ratings, so you can see the provider or facility’s history of service, among other details that help you make the most informed decision on behalf of the person you’re helping.

Photos courtesy of Getty Images


SOURCE:
Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services


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Rebecca Jo is a mother of four and is a creative soul from Phoenix, Arizona, who also enjoys new adventures. Rebecca Jo has a passion for the outdoors and indulges in activities like camping, fishing, hunting and riding roller coasters. She is married to Rod Washington

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The Philadelphia Phillies Join Forces with NPCF in the Fight Against Childhood Cancer

Philly Phillies & NPCF join forces to fight childhood cancer, raising awareness and funds through “Cut and Color Funds the Cure” event. #TogetherAgainstCancer

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Bay Care Ballpark for the "Cut and Color Funds the Cure" event, showing their support for childhood cancer awareness and the National Pediatric Cancer Foundation.
Fighting Childhood Cancer: Larry Bowa at the Phillies Cut and Color Funds the Cure for the National Pediatric Cancer Foundation

It is with great pride and admiration that we share the inspiring collaboration between the Philadelphia Phillies and the National Pediatric Cancer Foundation (NPCF). On Friday, March 22, the Phillies organized a remarkable event called “Cut and Color Funds the Cure” at Bay Care Ballpark. This event brought players, staff members, and supporters together to either cut or color their hair red or orange – the official colors of both the Phillies and NPCF. The primary goal of this program was to raise awareness and funding for pediatric cancer research, with the aim of finding a cure for the 43 children diagnosed with cancer every day.

The “Cut and Color Funds the Cure” event showcased the Philadelphia Phillies’ unwavering commitment to making a positive difference in the lives of children battling cancer. By embracing the red and orange hair colors associated with the team and NPCF, players and staff members symbolically demonstrated their solidarity and dedication to the cause. This vibrant display of unity helped generate widespread awareness and captivated the attention of both avid baseball fans and the general public.

  1. In joining forces with NPCF, the Phillies recognized the power of their platform to bring attention to pediatric cancer. By leveraging their influence and engaging in events like “Cut and Color Funds the Cure,” they are raising awareness about this harrowing disease and its impact on children and their families. The collective efforts of the Phillies and the NPCF not only inform the public but also foster a sense of empathy and compassion, inspiring others to join the fight against childhood cancer.

  2. The National Pediatric Cancer Foundation is renowned for its dedication to funding innovative research aimed at eliminating childhood cancer. By partnering with leading hospitals and research institutions nationwide, the foundation strives to find less toxic and more targeted treatment options. The collaboration with the Philadelphia Phillies further bolsters these efforts by providing resources and support to enable groundbreaking advancements in pediatric cancer research.

  3. The Philadelphia Phillies firmly believe in the power of sports to make a positive impact on their community. Through the “Cut and Color Funds the Cure” event, they actively engaged their fans and supporters, encouraging them to contribute to the cause. By creating an inclusive and participatory environment, the Phillies fostered a sense of community and amplified the collective strength of their loyal fanbase.


The partnership between the Philadelphia Phillies and the National Pediatric Cancer Foundation exemplifies the extraordinary potential of collaboration and collective action. By joining forces, the team and the foundation are driving forward the fight against childhood cancer, inspiring hope and uniting people from all walks of life. Through events like “Cut and Color Funds the Cure,” the Phillies demonstrate their unwavering commitment to improving the lives of children battling this devastating disease. Together, we can create a better tomorrow for these young heroes and pave the way for a future without pediatric cancer.

About National Pediatric Cancer Foundation
The National Pediatric Cancer Foundation (founded in 1991) is a national nonprofit organization dedicated to funding research to eliminate childhood cancer. We govern a unique, collaborative research consortium (called the Sunshine Project) consisting of physicians and scientists from over thirty of the top hospitals in the nation. We collaborate to idealize and aggregate the best scientific ideas and fund innovative research. The NPCF has received a perfect 100% score for financial health and transparency and is recognized as the top-rated cancer charity in the U.S. by Charity Navigator. For more information, visit NationalPCF.org or connect via FacebookTwitter or Instagram.

SOURCE National Pediatric Cancer Foundation

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FDA Approval of Nonsteroidal Treatment for Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy

Breaking news! FDA approves Duvyzat for Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy, a nonsteroidal treatment providing hope for patients and families. #DMD #FDAApproval

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Breaking news in the medical world! The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has just approved Duvyzat (givinostat), an oral medication for the treatment of Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy (DMD) in patients six years of age and older. Duvyzat is making history as the first nonsteroidal drug approved to treat patients with all genetic variants of DMD. This is a significant milestone in the treatment of this devastating disease.

DMD, being the most common childhood form of muscular dystrophy, primarily affects males. It is a neurological disorder that leads to progressive muscle weakness due to a lack of dystrophin, a muscle protein. Over time, the muscles deteriorate, causing difficulties with walking, muscle strength, and eventually leading to breathing problems and early death. However, with advancements in treatment, the life expectancy for individuals with DMD has been steadily increasing, with some patients surviving beyond 30 years.

Duvyzat is a histone deacetylase (HDAC) inhibitor that targets pathogenic processes to reduce inflammation and loss of muscle in patients with DMD. Its efficacy for the treatment of DMD was evaluated in an 18-month phase 3 study involving a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial. The primary endpoint of the study was the change in muscle function, measured by the time it took patients to climb four stairs. Patients treated with Duvyzat showed a statistically significant reduction in the decline of muscle function compared to placebo.

Another measure of efficacy was the change in physical function assessed by the North Star Ambulatory Assessment (NSAA), a scale commonly used to rate motor function in boys with DMD who can still walk. Patients treated with Duvyzat experienced less worsening in their NSAA scores after 18 months, compared to those on placebo.

Like any medication, Duvyzat does come with some potential side effects. The most common ones reported were diarrhea, abdominal pain, a decrease in platelets, nausea/vomiting, an increase in triglycerides, and fever. It’s important for healthcare providers to evaluate a patient’s platelet counts and triglyceride levels before prescribing Duvyzat. Patients with low platelet counts should not take the drug. Monitoring of platelet counts and triglycerides throughout treatment will help determine if any dosage adjustments are needed.

Healthcare professionals should also be aware that Duvyzat may cause QTc prolongation, which can increase the risk of irregular heartbeats. It’s crucial for patients taking other medications known to cause QTc prolongation or with certain types of heart disease to avoid taking Duvyzat.

The recommended dosage of Duvyzat is determined by the patient’s body weight, and it should be taken orally twice daily with food.

The approval of Duvyzat was granted to Italfarmaco S.p.A., and it received priority review, fast-track designation, as well as orphan drug and rare pediatric disease designations from the FDA. This demonstrates the agency’s commitment to advancing the development of new therapies for DMD and its recognition of the urgent need for effective treatments.

This milestone approval represents hope and progress for individuals and families affected by DMD. It provides another treatment option to help reduce the burden of this progressive and debilitating disease, regardless of the specific genetic mutation. With continued advancements in medical research and the dedication of organizations like the FDA, we are moving closer to a future where individuals with DMD can lead healthier lives.

As always, it’s important to consult with healthcare professionals for more information and guidance regarding Duvyzat and its suitability for individual cases. Let’s celebrate this achievement in medical science and look forward to more groundbreaking developments in the treatment of Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy.

Source: FDA

Related Information

  • Duchenne muscular dystrophy – About the Disease – Genetic and Rare Diseases Information Center
  • The FDA, an agency within the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, protects the public health by assuring the safety, effectiveness, and security of human and veterinary drugs, vaccines and other biological products for human use, and medical devices. The agency also is responsible for the safety and security of our nation’s food supply, cosmetics, dietary supplements, products that give off electronic radiation, and for regulating tobacco products.

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Milk Hosting EVERY WOMAN’S MARATHON – The Only U.S. Marathon Designed for Women, by Women

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SAVANNAH, Ga. /PRNewswire/ — Acknowledging the historically intimidating and male-centric nature of marathons, Milk, the original performance beverage, proudly announces Every Woman’s Marathon, the only U.S. marathon designed by and for women. Scheduled for November 16, 2024, in Savannah, Georgia, this monumental event marks a new chapter in Milk’s commitment to supporting women – creating not only a race, but a movement.

Amanda Gorman’s Inspirational Mantra to Announce Milk’s Every Woman’s Marathon. Join Team Milk in Savannah, Georgia on November 16, 2024, for the only US Marathon for Women by Women. Milk’s unique nutrient package offers high-quality protein, hydration, and electrolytes, providing critical nutrition for runners’ fuel and recovery.

Most women runners feel endurance races cater to men, and nearly 90% want a more inclusive race experience that celebrates all athletic abilities, ages, and body types1. As a solution to this gap in marathon racing, Milk designed the Every Woman’s Marathon to be inclusive, beginner-friendly, and attuned to the unique needs of women at every stage of their marathon journey.

Every Woman’s Marathon is not just about crossing the finish line; it’s about celebrating female strength and empowering every woman’s journey through the transformative power of community. Understanding that every woman has their own reason for running, Milk tapped acclaimed poet Amanda Gorman to create an inspirational mantra designed as a call to action for all women to join the movement. Narrated and penned by Gorman, the mantra highlights women of all sizes, backgrounds, races, and abilities, and why they run.

To help conceptualize Every Woman’s Marathon, Milk enlisted an advisory board comprised of five accomplished female runners, first female marathon finisher Kathrine Switzer, para-triathlon champion Danielle McLaughlin, Olympic Medalist Deena Kastor, trailblazer Alison Mariella Désir and Two-time Olympian and 2018 Boston Marathon Champion Des Linden, who collaborated to create an inclusive experience for women from registration to the finish line. Transcending the traditional race format, this marathon promises participants a comprehensive wellness weekend in the picturesque city of Savannah. The two-day event will include enriching activities such as cooking and yoga classes, live performances, and insightful panels. With thoughtful programming that prioritizes women and families, the event will also feature designated areas for nursing, pumping, play zones, and more, ensuring a welcoming and inclusive experience for all participants.

Beyond providing specialized training advice and nutrition plans tailored for women, backed by the expertise of the advisory board, Milk is further demonstrating its commitment to social impact by donating up to $1 million to charity organizations in support of women and girls across the US. Milk is proud to announce a donation of $100,000 to each of the five Every Woman’s Marathon charity partners, 261 FearlessBlack Girls RUN!Girls on the RunGirl Scouts of Historic Georgia, and St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital®. Milk is also helping runners amplify the impact by matching Every Woman’s Marathon registration costs in donations to the charity partners, up to $100,000 each.

“Milk has a centuries-old legacy of fueling performance and aiding recovery and can help runners go the distance with its unique nutritional package,” says MilkPEP CEO Yin Woon Rani. “We proudly recognize and champion the unique needs of women, and this marathon, crafted for and by women, will redefine the traditional marathon experience. Together, let’s make Every Woman’s Marathon not just a race but a celebration of women’s empowerment, resilience, and the unstoppable spirit of every woman.”

“Words and representation have the power to inspire change and unite,” says poet Amanda Gorman. “I am proud to partner with Milk on this mantra that speaks to the strength and resilience of women, and I encourage all women to take on this 26.2-mile challenge together.”

In addition to providing women with support, inspiration, and community, Milk also provides the essential nutrition runners seek. Milk’s unique nutrient package offers high-quality protein, hydration, and electrolytes, providing critical nutrition for runners’ fuel and recovery.

Starting January 23, 2024, women of all backgrounds and abilities can sign up for Every Woman’s Marathon to join the most inspiring female tribute of the year at EveryWomansMarathon.com. Signing up costs $65, with current Team Milk members enjoying an even further reduced price. Learn more at EveryWomansMarathon.com or @EveryWomansMarathon across social media.

About the Milk Processor Education Program

The Milk Processor Education Program (MilkPEP), Washington, D.C., is funded by the nation’s milk companies and is dedicated to educating consumers and increasing the consumption of fluid milk. For more information, visit MilkPEP.org.

1Interviews of 1205 runners (880 female, 325 male) in September 2023 on behalf of MilkPEP.

SOURCE MilkPEP

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