Health

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,…

By Jenni Marsh— MUNCIE, IN—From November 1 to January 15, people not eligible for Medicare, Medicaid, or affordable employer insurance can shop for healthcare plans at Healthcare.gov. As the Public Health Emergency put in place during the pandemic is ending, Indiana is doing redeterminations. If you have recently lost your Medicaid Coverage, Healthy Indiana Plan (HIP), or Hoosier Healthwise (HHW) coverage, now is the time to explore your options on the Marketplace. However, there is more to understanding the most affordable options than logging onto the website. That’s why free assistance is available through a network of licensed navigators supported…

By Seth Warren— MUNCIE, IN—For the last several years I’ve participated in No Shave November, which is a movement that encourages us all to have conversations about cancer prevention. As you may know, hair loss is a common side effect of cancer treatment. So, I’m more than happy to participate. Go ahead, ask me about my beard. I’ll tell you my wife and her persistence are the reason I’m alive today. Men’s Health Awareness Month and “No Shave November” work in tandem to address critical health concerns and promote discussions about men’s well-being. “No Shave November” encourages men to forgo…

By Liz Yates— MUNCIE, IN— IU Health Ball Memorial Hospital and End Lung Cancer Now, an initiative of the Indiana University Melvin and Bren Simon Comprehensive Cancer Center, are proud to announce a special event that will be taking place on Veteran’s Day this year. 25 free lung cancer screenings will be available to local veterans as a token of our gratitude for their service and dedication to our nation. The event will take place on November 11th, 2023, from 8 a.m-2 p.m. at the Imaging Center, located at 2598 W White River Blvd in Muncie for veterans that meet…