Health

By Tim Harms, American Heart Association— INDIANAPOLIS— Every 40 seconds someone in the U.S. has a stroke and 1 in 4 stroke survivors will have another one. During May, American Stroke Month, the American Stroke Association, a division of the American Heart Association, is raising awareness nationwide that stroke is largely preventable, treatable and beatable. Here are 3 ways you can act now to beat stroke: Learn how to spot a stroke F.A.S.T. If you see Face drooping, Arm weakness or Speech difficulty, it’s Time to call 911. Know your blood pressure numbers and keep them in a healthy range. High…

By Vicki Delzeith— MUNCIE, IN—IU Health is excited to announce that Dr. Wayne L. Gray was recently awarded the Sagamore of the Wabash Citation of Honor from Governor Eric Holcomb. The Sagamore of the Wabash award honors those who have made a significant contribution to life in the Hoosier state. The designation was created in the late 1940s during the administration of Governor Ralph Gates. The Sagamore is the highest honor the Governor regularly bestows on individuals. Governor Eric Holcomb reserves the Sagamore for those who have gone “above and beyond” and contributed to their communities or to the State in an extraordinary manner. The nomination by…

By Hannah Dunckel— MUNCIE, IN– Meridian Health Services is providing FREE dental exams for one-day only for children ages 1 to 14 on Monday, February 19 from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at Meridian Dental locations throughout Indiana. This event, Give Kids a Smile®, is part of a nationwide initiative led by the American Dental Association to provide children in need with quality oral health care and education. Oral health is a vital part of whole-person health. Untreated dental diseases can contribute to serious health problems, including heart disease and diabetes. Regular checkups and professional care are the keys to…

By Darryl Lockett— INDIANAPOLIS—Access to quality healthcare is vital to the wellbeing of every American. Indiana is no different. As we celebrate Black History month, it is important to reflect on the rich history of African Americans in Indiana’s medical progress and how far we have come. As Health Equity Director at Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield, I recognize that the health inequities we face are not fated or destined, but rather challenges that we can overcome and change. At the same time, I know we stand on the shoulders of giants who have shaped Indiana’s healthcare system for…

By Indiana Business Health Collaborative—  INDIANAPOLIS, IN – Major Indiana employers recently announced the creation of the Indiana Business Health Collaborative (IBHC), a coalition of innovators, job creators, and other health care stakeholders focused on reducing health care costs, maintaining a healthy workforce, and strengthening Indiana’s economic competitiveness. This unique partnership will convene members around its five guiding principles: Collaboration Competition Education Commitment and Results These principles will help drive market-based solutions that aim to lower the cost of care in Indiana while ensuring that Hoosiers are afforded unrestricted access to the high-quality services that they rely on. Luke Messer…

By Hannah Dunckel— MUNCIE, IN – After 14 years Meridian Health Services’ premier charity gala, Rialzo, has come to an end, but not before creating a path to make a broader impact on the communities Meridian serves. “Rialzo has served us well drawing attention to the causes we have supported for so long,” said Seth Warren, President and CEO of Meridian Health Services. “We are equally excited about what lies ahead.” Over the years, Rialzo has supported addiction recovery, youth mental health services, and school-based health clinics, but is now transitioning away from a fundraising gala party to a broader…

By IU Health— INDIANAPOLIS—Due to a rise in reported cases of flu and other respiratory viruses, IU Health will begin limiting visitors at its healthcare facilities to prevent spreading and protect patients and team members. All IU Health hospitals except those in the South Central Region will limit visitors beginning Tuesday, Dec. 26. South Central Region facilities will limit visitors beginning Wednesday, Dec. 27. Riley Hospital for Children is already observing restrictions. IU Health Infection Prevention recommends wearing a mask during direct patient care due to the high levels of circulating viruses in the community. The following restrictions will remain…

By Suzanne Clem— MUNCIE, IN – Community members who have not yet received the updated COVID-19 vaccine have the opportunity to do so at upcoming Open Door Health Services clinics. Covid vaccination clinics are the second Thursday of each month from noon-6 p.m., through March. The clinics take place at Open Door’s downtown Muncie health center, located at 333 S. Madison St. Vaccination remains no-cost and is open to ages 6 months and older. No appointment is necessary. While those receiving vaccination will not receive a bill, insurance will be billed when available. Open Door requests those with coverage bring…

By Courtney Schmoll— MUNCIE, IN—IU Health is broadening access to care for minor illnesses and injuries for those in Muncie and surrounding communities with the launch of its newest urgent care. Co-located in the same building as the IU Health Imaging Center, the new urgent care will also house an IU Health Employer Solutions clinic, which will offer care to city, county, and school employees. The new urgent care opens on Monday, Dec. 11 at 2598 West White River Boulevard in Muncie, Indiana. “We are excited to launch our newest urgent care in the East Central Region,” says Lyndsay Adams,…