Novant Health In Good Health

National HIV Testing Day signals the annual call for care providers to refocus on community testing for HIV. For many it's a day that purposefully celebrates one's decision to take the leap and get tested absent of stigma and invasive questioning. We are thankful that progress has made way for this important day. The fact remains that HIV, as with any other disease, waits for no one; therefore we can't wait for just one day of the year to come around again before we get tested. You will hear excerpts from a recent virtual conversation sponsored by ONE Charlotte Health Alliance entitled, "Harnessing the Power of Knowing." The question and answer period will provide key facts across the spectrum to dispel myth and provide understanding about testing, care and treatment options as well as whether COVID-19 presents any additional concerns for those living with HIV.

Most all of our attention has been on COVID-19 and rightfully so. But strokes and the warning signs need to remain top of mind to ensure the best possible care and recovery. Novant Health nurse practitioner, Courtney Heard joins the conversation to lay out the facts for those that may be at risk as well as stroke survivors who could be at risk for another stroke. We also discuss how COVID-19 fits into this equation and just how much more attention we need to pay to our health and our efforts to remain COVID-negative. May is National Stroke Awareness Month. For more information or education materials on stroke, log onto the American Stroke Association here. You can also check out our three-part series on stroke education to be released this month.

Stroke is and has always been a serious health concern. While many of us are doing our part to 'stay at home' during the global COVID-19 crisis, any signs or symptoms of stroke require us to head to the emergency department. Novant Health stroke navigators (Brittany Fox, Jessica Newell and Teresa Shelton) break it all down in this three-part series on stroke education. An easy acronym for detecting the signs of stroke is BE FAST: Balance; Eyes; Face; Arm; Speech; Time! Seek care immediately if you see or experience an of these signs!

Stroke is and has always been a serious health concern. While many of us are doing our part to 'stay at home' during the global COVID-19 crisis, any signs or symptoms of stroke require us to head to the emergency department. Novant Health stroke navigators (Brittany Fox, Jessica Newell and Teresa Shelton) break it all down in this three-part series on stroke education. An easy acronym for detecting the signs of stroke is BE FAST: Balance; Eyes; Face; Arm; Speech; Time! Seek care immediately if you see or experience an of these signs!

Stroke is and has always been a serious health concern. While many of us are doing our part to 'stay at home' during the global COVID-19 crisis, any signs or symptoms of stroke require us to head to the emergency department. Novant Health stroke navigators (Brittany Fox, Jessica Newell and Teresa Shelton) break it all down in this three-part series on stroke education. In this final episode we hear about risk factors and prevention methods to steer clear of this health concern. You may be surprised at how easy it is to prevent a stroke. An easy acronym for detecting the signs of stroke is BE FAST: Balance; Eyes; Face; Arm; Speech; Time! Seek care immediately if you see or experience an of these signs!

Dr. Jed Schortz of Novant Health Gynecologic Surgery and Pelvic Pain to discusses how different minimally invasive gynecologic surgery is changing the surgical game surrounding fibroids, endometriosis and hysterectomies.

System physician executive, Dr. Navin Bhojwani joins us again to discuss the ways Novant Health maintains its support and education as expecting mothers plan their birthing experience. The organization has worked hard to transition to virtual education classes and facility tours to keep planning on track. Stick around for candid conversation about safe conception measures as many manage the long hours together, under one roof. Are we headed for a Coronavirus-inspired baby boom?

Dr. Navin Bhojwani, OBGYN and system executive for the Novant Health Women's & Children's Institute details what to expect in the delivery room and distinguishes what post-partum care looks like for healthy mothers and COVID-19 positive patients or patients under investigation. While a lot of changes have been put in place to protect our new mothers and babies, much remains the same including safe, quality care.

Physician leader for Novant Health Womens & Children's Institute, Dr. Navin Bhojwani shares into the changing landscape of COVID-19 for expecting mothers and explains the "why" behind Novant Health hospital facilities' amended visitation policy.

Did you know that your heart can age...even faster than you do? According to the CDC, three out of four adults are living with a heart age that is older than their actual age. It's important to know how to manage your health and keep your heart healthy. Dr. Sandy Charles discusses heart disease and offers small changes to our daily habits that can create a big impact! For more information, check out Novant Health's new campaign, Vision 2020: A new lens for a healthier future. You'll find information on risk factors for cardiovascular disease as well as a series of challenges throughout the year. The challenges are designed to be fun, manageable and sustainable with the goal of working to reduce one or more risk factors like increased physical activity, decreasing sugar intake and self care, all of which are known to have a direct impact on heart health. What do you have to lose? Take a risk -- this is a good one -- and join the movement towards wellness!

Dr. Bill Hammill discusses the prevalence, warning signs and preventive measures with Cullen Jones, Olympic swimming champion and Novant Health Foundation manager. You will walk away with practical information and new-found knowledge to ensure our young athletes are protected and play safe!

Access to healthcare is an evergreen issue for many communities. It can be complicated, especially when you need a team of doctors to help you manage your health. What if a specialist was located in the same place as your primary care doctor - one stop shopping for healthcare? Sound too easy...wondering, where's the catch? No catch, we promise. We made it a point to make it easy for our patients so that you have every reason and ability to get good, quality healthcare. Check out Novant Health's new model for clinics in priority areas with specialists embedded for greater access! We are joined by Dr. Akshay Pendyal, cardiologist at Novant Health.

If you haven't considered swimming as an ultimate workout, you are missing out.. Olympic swimmer, Cullen Jones, discusses what it takes to be an elite athlete, swimming mechanics for speed and exactly why swimming is so beneficial for those that want a full body workout! Your key to good health could be right in your backyard or around the corner at the neighborhood aquatic center.

"Big Pharma" was a major contributor to the opioid crisis, which has reached an all-time high, but healthcare providers and systems are stepping up with new insights and comprehensive treatment programs to overcome these challenges for their patients. Novant Health addiction specialist, Dr. Heather Manos gives us the history behind the opioid crisis and what the journey to recovery can look like for people with a substance use disorder, that seek help.

One in 10 Americans will suffer from addiction and another 1 in 10 of those suffering will not seek help. The statistics are staggering as we consider just how many influences are present in society today. Alcohol, tobacco and drug misuse can lead to some difficult hurdles to overcome on the path to recovery. Dr. Heather Manos, addiction specialist for Novant Health, lays out the reality that is, addiction. If you or someone you know needs help, we encourage you to reach out to the National Helpline, 1-800-662-HELP (4357). This free, confidential resource is available 24/7/365 in English and Spanish.

Regulated for medical use in just 33 states, medical marijuana has seen a rapid increase in popularity and legalization over the last few years. While many patients benefit greatly from the effects, the question remains as to why it has not been legalized everywhere. We'll discuss the benefits, the role of your doctor and risks associated with use.

The popularity of CBD oil continues to rise even though it is not federally regulated. We delve into exactly where it comes from, what it can do and why you may want to think twice before using it. Dr. Heather Manos, board certified addiction therapist breaks down CBD and give us straight talk about what she would tell her patients if they are interested in using CBD oil.

The barbershop is known throughout the black community as a place of safety for any topic of conversation...no judgment, just real dialogue. You will hear excerpts from the African American Male Wellness Initiative, key organizer in Charlotte and Novant Health physician, Dr. Augustus Parker about the event, which created a simulated barbershop experience for participants to encourage dialogue around mental health and wellness. The Barbershop Talk event is a great first step in addressing this challenging topic within the black community.

Ninety percent preventable, yet still a rising trend. Teen suicide is now the second leading cause of death for youth ages 10-17 years old, behind motor vehicle accidents. While the good news is that many suicides are preventable, many of us just don’t know what to look for or how to start the conversation. Listen in as we discuss the myths and warning signs about teen suicide and introduce an authentic voice that has come out on the other side. You will leave this podcast with a toolkit to aid in identifying and possibly saving the life of a teen in trouble. No family should ever have to suffer the consequences of a preventable, teen suicide.

Alzheimer's disease affects nearly 6 million Americans, and that number will grow as Baby Boomers age. Novant Health neurologist Dr. Mark Pippenger discusses the impact Alzheimer’s has on a patient’s family members and friends. He'll dive into concerns he often hears: Are you likely to suffer from the disease? If so, what's treatment going to be like 10 or so years from now?