Podcasts about global healthy living foundation

In this special post-election episode of The Health Advocates, Steven Newmark, Chief Policy Officer at the Global Healthy Living Foundation, provides an update on the potential impacts of Donald Trump's second non-consecutive presidential term on health care. With changes expected in the Senate and possible shifts in the House, Steven breaks down how Trump's administration, along with controversial figures like Robert F. Kennedy Jr., may influence public health agencies, Medicaid, Medicare, and the Affordable Care Act. Tune in for a quick, informative recap of the election's health care implications. Contact Our Hosts Steven Newmark, Chief of Policy at GHLF: snewmark@ghlf.org Zoe Rothblatt, Director of Community Outreach at GHLF: zrothblatt@ghlf.org A podcast episode produced by Ben Blanc, Associate Director, Digital Production and Engagement at GHLF. We want to hear what you think. Send your comments in the form of an email, video, or audio clip of yourself to podcasts@ghlf.org Catch up on all our episodes on our website or on your favorite podcast channel.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Senator Ron Johnson, Congressman Tom Tiffany, The Stream's John Zmirak, Global Healthy Living Foundation's Rob Popovian, and Former Israeli Military Intelligence Yaron Brook

In this episode, we delve into the multifaceted world of caregiving with Danielle, a certified financial planner and caregiver for her mother, and Cora, a caregiver for her aging mother who is juggling aches and pains.  Danielle and Cora share their personal journeys of balancing self-care while providing unwavering support to their loved ones. From caring for loved ones with “invisible” conditions to handling mobility and accessibility issues, they offer valuable insights into caregiving across generations. Join host Dr. Laurie Ferguson and expert caregiver Mike Eidsaune as they explore these compelling stories, offering a blend of empathy, practical advice, and a deeper understanding of the family caregiver journey. Among the highlights in this episode: 01:46: Danielle shares her background as a certified financial planner and her transition to specializing in financial education for family caregivers 02:56: Danielle discusses her personal journey as a multigenerational caregiver, supporting her elderly grandmother and her mother 03:54: Cora describes her experience caring for her 70-year-old mother 05:01: Danielle and Cora reflect on the balance of caring for loved ones and self-care, with Danielle addressing her recent realization of the toll caregiving has taken on her 07:42: Mike Eidsaune, CEO of Caregiving.com, offers insights on the importance of self-care for family caregivers and suggests reframing it as a crucial part of the caregiving role 10:52: Cora discusses her activities outside of caregiving, like going to the gym, and its positive impact on her mental health and ability to care for her mother 11:38: Danielle explains her role in planning for her mother's retirement and her grandmother's comfort and care needs 12:30: Mike emphasizes the significance of addressing mental health issues in caregiving, highlighting the importance of community support 15:31: Cora and Danielle share insights on managing mobility issues for their loved ones, including planning for accessibility and comfort during travels 18:31: Mike discusses strategies for caregivers to plan for mobility challenges and the emotional impact of mobility loss on the cared-for individual 23:27: Danielle and Cora offer final pieces of advice for other caregivers, emphasizing living life to the fullest and balancing caregiving with personal well-being 27:14: Mike concludes by expanding on the role of a support system in caregiving, stressing its variety and importance in addressing different needs of caregivers Contact Our Host Dr. Laurie Ferguson, Director of Education Development at the Global Healthy Living Foundation: lferguson@ghlf.org A podcast episode produced by Ben Blanc, Manager of Programs & Special Projects at GHLF. We want to hear what you think. Send your comments in the form of an email, video, or audio clip of yourself to podcasts@ghlf.org Catch up on all our episodes on our website or on your favorite podcast channel.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode, we explore a unique facet of caregiving as Alyssa, a young woman passionate about hiking, unexpectedly forges a deep bond with an older woman (lovingly known as “new grandma”) who she met while walking her service dog Kernel. This chance encounter grows into a meaningful companionship enriched by shared walks, a mutual love for dogs and nature, and emotional support. Together, they navigate through the obstacles of aging and the pain of loss, while celebrating the joys of friendship and shared interests like photography. Alyssa realizes that caregiving isn't just about assistance; it's about connection. Among the highlights in this episode: 01:57: Alyssa describes her caring friendship with “new grandma”, highlighting their shared activities like hiking 04:56: Dr. Ferguson explores the significance of friendship in mitigating loneliness and pain in older age 05:24: Alyssa reflects on how unexpected relationships can be life-changing, mentioning her dog Kernel's role in building connections 06:28: Mike Eidsaune, CEO of Caregiving.com, provides expert insights on the importance of companionship in caregiving, emphasizing human and animal connections 07:26: Dr. Ferguson and Mike address the broader context of loneliness 08:44: Mike highlights the value of finding common ground in caregiving relationships across different generations 10:51: Dr. Ferguson comments on the broader aspects of caregiving, such as companionship and emotional support, beyond physical assistance 11:24: Alyssa talks about the role of humor in her relationship with “new grandma” and how it helps them cope with challenges 17:00: Mike emphasizes the idea that caregiving doesn't always fit traditional definitions and highlights Alyssa's significant impact 18:02: Mike concludes by suggesting resources for caregivers, focusing on the importance of companionship and community engagement for the well-being of loved ones Contact Our Host Dr. Laurie Ferguson, Director of Education Development at the Global Healthy Living Foundation: lferguson@ghlf.org A podcast episode produced by Ben Blanc, Manager of Programs & Special Projects at GHLF. We want to hear what you think. Send your comments in the form of an email, video, or audio clip of yourself to podcasts@ghlf.org Catch up on all our episodes on our website or on your favorite podcast channel.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode, we dive into the unique story of Aisha, a young Black woman who stepped into the role of caregiver when her mother was diagnosed with frontotemporal dementia. Facing the dual challenges of her youth and a lack of caregiving resources tailored for her cultural background, Aisha's journey is one of remarkable resilience and innovation. Aisha shares her personal struggles and triumphs, detailing how she navigated uncharted territories to create a supportive and essential community and resources for caregivers like her. Among the highlights in this episode: 01:11: Aisha explains her entry into caregiving at age 27 and the adjustments she made, including leaving her job to care for her mother 03:40: Aisha describes her evolving role as a caregiver, from companion to handling more complex tasks as her mother's condition progressed 04:48: Aisha discusses the lack of available caregiving resources for her specific demographic as a young, African American woman 06:05: Aisha details her initiative in creating "Our Turn 2 Care" to support young caregivers of color and those in the LGBTQ community 10:19: Dr. Ferguson, Director of Education Development at GHLF, highlights the significant issue of resource scarcity for specific caregiver groups 10:54: Mike Eidsaune, CEO of Caregiving.com, emphasizes the importance of tailored solutions and representation in caregiving resources 13:16: Aisha stresses the importance of a strong support network for caregivers 14:36: Aisha shares how music and the arts played a crucial role in her caregiving experience 19:52: Aisha advises caregivers on the importance of self-prioritization and reflects on her caregiving experience 22:11: Dr. Ferguson comments on the non-linear nature of the caregiving journey and the importance of self-patience 23:42: Aisha lists various organizations and resources useful for caregivers 28:43: Mike concludes by suggesting ways for caregivers to educate themselves and find local resources Contact Our Host Dr. Laurie Ferguson, Director of Education Development at the Global Healthy Living Foundation: lferguson@ghlf.org A podcast episode produced by Ben Blanc, Manager of Programs & Special Projects at GHLF. We want to hear what you think. Send your comments in the form of an email, video, or audio clip of yourself to podcasts@ghlf.org Catch up on all our episodes on our website or on your favorite podcast channel.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this touching episode, join Olivia as she navigates the intricacies of caring for her father, who is battling lung cancer. Despite her own struggles with chronic migraine, Olivia finds unique ways to bring joy and empowerment to her father's life. From daily texts to engaging conversations in her father's native language, Tagalog, each interaction helps build a beautiful relationship of care and connection. This episode highlights the challenges caregivers face and illuminates the profound impact of creativity and storytelling in fostering resilience and deepening familial bonds. Among the highlights in this episode: 02:00: Olivia discusses her role in supporting her father with lung cancer, while managing her own chronic condition 03:14: Olivia describes her creative approach to caregiving, such as fostering communication through daily texts and phone calls 06:13: Olivia shares her experience of connecting with her father by practicing Tagalog, her father's native language, highlighting the importance of cultural connection in their relationship 07:54: Dr. Ferguson, Director of Education Development at GHLF, notes the empowering aspect of Olivia's approach, where she enables her father to be the teacher and expert with the practice of Tagalog, enhancing their bond 09:31: Mike Eidsaune, CEO of Caregiving.com, reflects on the impact of Olivia's caregiving approach, emphasizing the significance of small, regular actions and the therapeutic benefits of storytelling in caregiving 11:19: Olivia discusses her passion project – a podcast about Filipino tennis players, starting with her father's story, and how this project enriches their relationship 15:53: Mike discusses the broader implications of Olivia's storytelling approach, including its impact on her father's sense of legacy and the therapeutic benefits for both caregivers and their loved ones 19:01: Olivia shares her philosophy on caregiving, focusing on the importance of finding joy and meaning beyond the illness and diagnosis 21:09: Olivia talks about her personal coping mechanism and source of resilience, including cycling and participating in century rides, drawing parallels between her personal challenges and caregiving 24:30: Mike concludes with key takeaways from Olivia's interview, highlighting the importance of positivity, consistency, and the power of storytelling in caregiving Contact Our Host Dr. Laurie Ferguson, Director of Education Development at the Global Healthy Living Foundation: lferguson@ghlf.org A podcast episode produced by Ben Blanc, Manager of Programs & Special Projects at GHLF. We want to hear what you think. Send your comments in the form of an email, video, or audio clip of yourself to podcasts@ghlf.org Catch up on all our episodes on our website or on your favorite podcast channel.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of Thriving While Aching, we meet Marilyn, who lives in Salt Lake City, Utah, with her husband, Joel, who has arthritis and was first introduced in Season 1. This season focuses on how caregivers and care partners can help their loved ones thrive as they age. Marilyn shares how she keeps Joel and herself mentally and physically active. She teaches us that, with some adjustments, you and your loved one can continue to enjoy the things you love, albeit with a twist, and she highlights the significance of adding laughter and curiosity to help them thrive. Among the highlights in this episode:  02:39: Marilyn discusses the major life adjustments she and Joel had to make due to his arthritic pain, impacting their active outdoor lifestyle 03:14: Marilyn explains how she and Joel remain physically active, focusing on bicycling as their primary activity 05:48: Mike Eidsaune, CEO of Caregiving.com and our expert caregiver this season, discusses the importance of finding shared activities and adapting to new life phases 07:27: Marilyn talks about the mental aspects of caregiving, focusing on humor, reading, and maintaining curiosity 11:49: Marilyn describes how she and Joel maintain their social life, adapting their long-standing traditions to suit their current lifestyle 14:20: Mike emphasizes the importance of community support and finding small inspirations in everyday life for caregivers 16:08: Marilyn discusses how she and Joel entertain at home and adapt to changes in household responsibilities 18:21: Marilyn talks about Joel and her community activities, including involvement in the homeowners association 19:27: Dr. Ferguson and Mike reflect on Marilyn's journey, emphasizing the importance of adapting, community, and finding joy in small things Contact Our Host Dr. Laurie Ferguson, Director of Education at the Global Healthy Living Foundation: lferguson@ghlf.org A podcast episode produced by Ben Blanc, Manager of Programs & Special Projects at GHLF. We want to hear what you think. Send your comments in the form of an email, video, or audio clip of yourself to podcasts@ghlf.org Catch up on all our episodes on our website or on your favorite podcast channel.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this episode of Bone Talk, we're shining a spotlight on the Global Healthy Living Foundation and their incredible Global Bone Health Initiative, Strong Bones & Me, which is making a significant impact in the world of bone health awareness. Joining BHOF CEO Claire Gill from the Global Healthy Living Foundation are two individuals at the forefront of this work. Adam Kegley, Manager of Global Partnerships, has been instrumental in forging partnerships and collaborations, and Angel Tapia, Senior Patient Advocate and Hispanic Community Outreach Manager, is deeply involved in reaching out to diverse communities. Together, we explore the mission and goals of the Global Bone Health Initiative, Strong Bones & Me. We also discuss the vital connection between bone health and co-conditions, as well as how you, our listeners, can get involved and support this crucial cause.

Dr. Robert Popovian, Chief Science Policy Officer for the Global Healthy Living Foundation, discusses the GLHF's recent webinar on formulary exclusions; and a Forbes article outlines how two states are taking action to protect themselves against insurance policies that don't make sense.. Global Healthy Living Foundation Webinar: Impact of Formulary Exclusions on Individual Patients Forbes News Article: New TN & TX Price Transparency Laws Prevent Patients From Getting Ripped Off  

Living with psoriasis ~ how to become HEROES Brittane Thames, Atlanta based barber & social media manager, has been living with psoriasis since she was 13. She states that 7.5 million Americans live with the disease.She speaks about how she navigated this as a teenager, and that it was her hairstylist that recognised that she had a condition and referred her for help. The knowledge and expertise shown by her hairstylist, along with her sensitivity and compassion, has led to her being a loyal customer for the past 22 years!The Global Healthy Living Foundation has created a free online platform designed to equip stylists to better support their clients with skin & scalp conditions. Brittane is now a HEROES participant and ambassador.Connect with Brittane:InstagramHEROES Instagram Website Connect with Hair therapy: Facebook Instagram Twitter Clubhouse- @Hair.Therapy Donate towards the podcast Start your own podcastHair & Scalp Salon Specialist Course ~ Book now to become an expert! Get 15% off all Tony Maleedy products! Click Here and use code HAIRTHERAPYUK

When should you consult a dermatologist for help?Dr Elle de Moll is a Connecticut- based dermatologist who is in support of the Global Healthy Living Foundation's non-profit campaign, the Health, Education + Reliable Outreach + Empathetic Support, which has been created by, with and for stylists, salons & barber shops to equip stylists to support their clients with skin & scalp conditions.Dr Elle discusses why it is a benefit to everyone for stylists and therapists to be able to help to address any skin & scalp concerns their clients may be facing.We talk about new & emerging treatment options, how medicines are getting more targeted & precise, and how she has studied new treatments for melanomas, using the immune system to help fight cancer.We discuss how to recognise skin cancer and the signs to look for, inequalities and why people of colour are less likely to visit a dermatologist for help. They also may experience undertreatment of chronic conditions. Dr Elle also challenges the misconception that only fair-skinned people can get skin cancer, and how someone may have a genetic pre-disposition. She urges anyone who is concerned to seek help, and doesn't like to see anyone being preyed upon by unethical marketing companies.Connect with Dr Elle de Moll:WebsiteInstagram - HEROES campaign Connect with Hair therapy: Facebook Instagram Twitter Clubhouse- @Hair.Therapy Donate towards the podcast Start your own podcastHair & Scalp Salon Specialist Course ~ Book now to become an expert! Get 15% off all Tony Maleedy products! Click Here and use code HAIRTHERAPYUK

This week, our hosts are joined by Seth Ginsberg, Co-founder and President of the Global Healthy Living Foundation, to learn about the HEROES (Health Education + Reliable Outreach + Empathetic Support) program. HEROES is a free education and outreach initiative that equips beauty professionals to better support clients living with scalp and other skin conditions. Seth reminds us of the importance of community support, personalized care, and empathy toward each other. “As patients, this is a chance to really not just fight stigma, but beat it back. And it starts literally at a place like a salon or barbershop where this is like a house of influence, if you will. And if we can give them at least what they ought to know and think about these conditions that's a massive leap forward," says Seth Ginsberg. Among the highlights in this episode: 01:05: Seth shares his personal journey with spondyloarthropathy, a form of arthritis, and his work from CreakyJoints to GHLF 04:19: Seth introduces the HEROES program, an initiative that GHLF is launching worldwide designed to equip and support licensed appearance enhancement service providers with information on common skin and scalp conditions, helping them to better support their clients living with these conditions 06:33: A survey conducted by GHLF found that stylists are familiar with conditions like psoriasis, eczema, and alopecia but lack comprehensive understanding and are keen to learn more 08:31: Seth talks about the enrollment process for the HEROES program and the ways the information will be delivered to the professionals who sign up How to sign up for the HEROES Program? Visit ghlf.org/salonheroes Follow us in Instagram @GHLF_HEROES (Soon you will be able to subscribe to free text message updates too) 10:04: Seth encourages patients to help enroll their hair stylists and barbers into the HEROES program, underlining that sharing their experiences and directing the professionals to the HEROES page is a powerful form of advocacy that can make a significant difference 12:29: Zoe Rothblatt, Associate Director of Community Outreach at GHLF, emphasizes how the HEROES program can help patients feel more comfortable and understood in salon and barber settings, ultimately reducing stigma and improving overall patient care 13:10: Seth discusses the importance of fighting stigma around skin and scalp conditions, and highlights the potential danger for individuals who ignore their symptoms due to lack of awareness 14:50: Seth emphasizes that stylists and barbers are essential community health ambassadors and should be aware of skin and scalp conditions 15:20: “Today's objective is a focused one on skin and scalp conditions, because tens of millions of Americans are affected by them,” says Seth 17:19: What our hosts learned from this episode Contact Our Hosts Steven Newmark, Director of Policy at GHLF: snewmark@ghlf.org Zoe Rothblatt, Associate Director, Community Outreach at GHLF: zrothblatt@ghlf.org We want to hear what you think. Send your comments in the form of an email, video, or audio clip of yourself to thehealthadvocates@ghlf.org Catch up on all our episodes on our website or on your favorite podcast channel.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dr. Robert Popovian, Chief Science Policy Officer at the Global Healthy Living Foundation, co-authors a comprehensive report for the Pioneer Institute on the impacts of PBMs and Copay Accumulator programs; the Senate HELP Committee hosts a markup on the Pharmacy Benefit Manager Reform Act; Ryan Strik, Rhode Island Government Relations Director for the American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network, discusses Copay Accumulator legislation that their organization and dozens of others are trying to pass; and Patients Rising Now releases a Patient Impact Report on Copay Accumulators. Pioneer Health Report: Out-of-Pocket Pirates – Pharmacy Benefit Managers (PBMs) and the Confiscation of Out-of-Pocket Assistance Programs Global Health Living Foundation Webpage: Impact of Legislation Protecting Patient Assistance Programs on Health Insurance Premiums Senate HELP Committee Webpage: Executive Session Rhode Island Cancer Action Center Webpage Patients Rising Now Patient Impact Report: Copay Accumulator Programs Double-Dip Into Patient Wallets  

Our hosts share the latest news updates on COVID boosters, our patient support program quick poll results on exercise habits, and the recent decision by the Texas district federal court to ban the use of mifepristone, which threatens the authority of the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). “This is the first time a judge has essentially overruled the FDA, and this ruling could open the door to lawsuits, to contest approvals or regulatory decisions related to other medications or vaccines,” says Steven Newmark, Director of Policy at GHLF. Among the highlights in this episode: 0:06: Steven summarizes the episode's main topic 1:18: The FDA is expected to announce a second omicron-specific COVID booster for people who are 65 and older as well as those with weakened immune systems 1:59: Results from a recent GHLF COVID-19 Patient Support Program quick poll show that 47% of respondents exercise daily or weekly 4:26: A federal judge in Texas issued a ruling to revoke the FDA's 23-year-old approval of the abortion pill mifepristone 5:30: “If this decision is upheld, it could really shake the very framework of patients' reliance and doctors' reliance, and the pharmaceutical industry's reliance on the FDA's pathways for developing new drugs,” says Steven 7:12: “This ruling is coming in and contradicting all that work that the FDA does... The case is probably going to go to the Supreme Court and as someone living with chronic illness… it genuinely scares me that judges and people in this country are able to fight and undermine the FDA like this, especially as someone who relies on medications to keep me functioning in everyday life,” says Zoe 10:00: In parallel to the Texas ruling, Democratic attorneys general from 17 states and the District of Columbia challenged extra restrictions that the FDA imposes on mifepristone 11:55: The Texas ruling could violate the Constitution's commerce clause, which prohibits states from impairing interstate commerce, and the supremacy clause, which says that federal laws have priority over conflicting state laws 13:11: “Rulings are made by judges and judges are humans. Humans don't always get things right, and that's why… there are appellate courts to sometimes overrule lower courts and so forth” says Steven 15:38: “There may come a moment where there's an opportunity to insert yourself in the litigation itself as an amicus curiae, which means friend of the court. Those are individuals who may not be litigants in the case but have some special concern about the outcome of how that case could affect them going forward. So that could be an area where groups like the Global Healthy Living Foundation might insert themselves and might be seeking patients to help with that,” says Steven 16:18: What our hosts learned from this episode Contact Our Hosts Steven Newmark, Director of Policy at GHLF: snewmark@ghlf.org Zoe Rothblatt, Associate Director, Community Outreach at GHLF: zrothblatt@ghlf.org We want to hear what you think. Send your comments in the form of an email, video, or audio clip of yourself to thehealthadvocates@ghlf.org Catch up on all our episodes on our website or on your favorite podcast channel.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Our hosts discuss important pieces of legislation in the U.S. that help improve access to care, both federally and around the states, and how the Global Healthy Living Foundation's 50-State Network has been advocating on the ground. The hosts also break down big news in health insurance, including the recent attacks on the Affordable Care Act and why millions may soon lose access to Medicaid. “During the pandemic… Medicaid enrollment grew by 5 million people between 2020 and 2022. So that's a lot of people who are on it [Medicaid] and could potentially be losing coverage, maybe even more than that. And it's already starting to happen around some states,” says Zoe Rothblatt, Associate Director of Community Outreach at GHLF. Among the highlights in this episode: 1:16: Steven Newmark, Director of Policy at GHLF, discusses the issue of copay accumulators and their detrimental impact on patients 3:05: “I think that there are still a lot of elected officials and staff who are unaware of what accumulators are, who don't get to hear the patient perspective enough. And I think it says to us; we have more work to do. And to anyone listening, it's important to continue to play a role and to let folks, policymakers, and elected officials know what it's like to live with a chronic condition, and when dealing with accumulators, the affordability issues at play,” says Steven 3:53: GHLF's efforts to advocate for the Safe Step Act and the Help Copays Act 5:17: Our hosts discuss JP Summers, Patient Advocate and Community Outreach Manager at GHLF, perspective and experience testifying about co-pays as a patient and advocate in Austin, TX 7:01: “In California, we focused on a legislation that helps with co-pay accumulator adjusters. And what was so interesting was that two different legislative offices said that with GHLF coming with patients, it was the first time they ever heard directly from patients about these bills,” says Zoe 8:13: Why are millions of people potentially going to lose access to Medicaid? 8:21: “During the pandemic, the government suspended procedures that would remove people from Medicaid rolls. In the past, people would regularly lose their Medicaid coverage if they started making too much money to qualify for the program, or if they moved out of state,” says Steven 9:04: “The good news is that not all ineligible people will be dropped at once. States have different timelines. Most states are expected to take between nine months and a full year to complete the verification process [in regard to eligibility for Medicaid] so there's a good amount of time to check in on what's happening,” says Zoe 10:55: “Insurance is a lifeline and it's scary to potentially lose that access… If you do change plans, always remember to check your doctor's coverage and prescription coverage to make sure that you'll be able to continue your care as you were,” says Zoe 12:53: What our hosts learned from this episode Contact Our Hosts Steven Newmark, Director of Policy at GHLF: snewmark@ghlf.org Zoe Rothblatt, Associate Director, Community Outreach at GHLF: zrothblatt@ghlf.org We want to hear what you think. Send your comments in the form of an email, video, or audio clip of yourself to thehealthadvocates@ghlf.org Catch up on all our episodes on our website or on your favorite podcast channel.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It's been three years since the World Health Organization declared COVID-19 a pandemic. Our hosts talk about where we are at now with fighting the virus, what we've learned over the years, and how our community is feeling. “Early on, I felt like there was a high level of concern for the community, for others. People masking up for others, for those in the community who have chronic disease, who are elderly. And that seems to have just gone by the wayside,” says co-host Steven Newmark, Director of Policy at the Global Healthy Living Foundation. Among the highlights in this episode: 00:56: Steven and Zoe kick off the episode by giving an update about the Cochrane review on the effectiveness of masks 03:03: Zoe and Steven introduce today's main topic, a look back at COVID at the three-year mark since the World Health Organization declared COVID-19 as a pandemic, and run through some of the changes we've seen since that time 05:16: Zoe takes a look at COVID statistics from the past three years 06:58: To add some historical context, Zoe and Steven look at how events transpired during the 1918 Flu Pandemic 08:50: Zoe and Steven look at vaccines rates in the United States 11:56: With COVID protocols ending, Zoe and Steven take a look at the effect COVID has had on the chronic illness community 13:53: As new information is being found about long COVID, Zoe and Steven catch us up on the latest findings 16:59: Zoe and Steven look back at the silver linings from the past three years 18:08: What our hosts learned from this episode Contact Our Hosts Steven Newmark, Director of Policy at GHLF: snewmark@ghlf.org Zoe Rothblatt, Associate Director, Community Outreach at GHLF: zrothblatt@ghlf.org We want to hear what you think. Send your comments in the form of an email, video, or audio clip of yourself to thehealthadvocates@ghlf.org Catch up on all our episodes on our website or on your favorite podcast channel.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Shilpa Venkatachalam, PhD, MPH, director of Patient-Centered Research Operations and Ethical Oversight at Global Healthy Living Foundation, and Shubhasree Banerjee, MD, assistant professor of clinical medicine at Penn Medicine, discuss the factors associated with vaccine hesitancy and skepticism and the steps that clinicians can take to improve COVID-19 vaccine uptake rates.

Headache, nausea and sensitivity to light are all common symptoms of migraine. According to the BBC, one in five women suffer from migraines. Studies also show that between two to three times as many women endure them as men – a ratio that fluctuates depending on stage of life. Kim Chakanetsa speaks to two women whose lives have been shaped by migraines. Sarah Shaw from New Jersey, USA, has lived with chronic migraine for 10 years. After years of searching, Sarah finally had a breakthrough with treatment last year – when she found a Black neurologist. Sarah journey with migraine led her to a job in patient advocacy for Black, Indigenous, and People of Colour (BIPOC) patients, with the non-profit patient advocacy organization, the Global Healthy Living Foundation. Lise R Øie is a Norwegian neurologist and postdoctoral research fellow at the Norwegian Headache Research Centre (NorHEAD). Lise conducts clinical research on migraine treatment, and is currently looking into a blood pressure preventative treatment for migraines. (Image: (L) Sarah Shaw, courtesy Sarah Shaw. (R) Lise R Øie, courtesy Lise R Øie.)

Host Melissa Berry gets migraines! Not fun! So it was time to chat with someone who knows a thing or two about these debilitating headaches. Introducing Joe Coe, Director of Education, Digital Strategy and Co-President of the Global Healthy Living Foundation and host of the, "Talking Head Pain" podcast. The two spoke in great detail about the different types of medications available, prevention and how to advocate for yourself if you suffer from migraines. Breast cancer treatment is tough enough, but if you get a migraine on top of it all it can be incredibly overwhelming so tune in to learn more!

Disability representation in the fashion industry has a long history with rheumatoid arthritis designer Michael Kuluva who has championed this issue for years. Kuluva designs accessible clothing, raises awareness for chronic illness through fashion and features advocates like Kelly Boyd as models in his Tumbler and Tipsy show. Now, we meet Kellie Cusack who lives with spinal muscular atrophy, and will be featured in a fashion show, as she “rolls down the runway” at New York Fashion Week on September 8th” “Fashion really does play a role in your health,” says Zoe Rothblatt, Associate Director, Community Outreach at Global Healthy Living Foundation. “The physical and mental health is so tied together; you want to feel good in what you're wearing when you're already feeling so bad about living in pain. It really does make a difference to look good and feel good, as they say.” Among the highlights in this episode: 1:23: Listener comment 2:28: COVID-19 Quick Poll result: 95% had not heard about the latest CDC COVID guidance, 70% said they feel unsafe due to the less restrictive guidance 3:33- Zoe and Steven continue to mask up 5:58: The survey measured presenteeism, the concept of showing up for work but not being productive due, in part, to chronic illness 6:31: Respondents suggested six workplace supports, from flexible work schedules to ergonomic and accessible workstation 7:56: Texas has confirmed the first US death of an individual who had Monkeypox 9:22: Introducing our guest, Kellie Cusack, who lives with spinal muscular atrophy and will be featured in a one-of-a-kind fashion show on September 8th, focused on disability representation 10:17: Kellie started fundraising for the cause when she was 10 years old 11:42: Kellie shares how she will participate in “Double Take” during New York Fashion Week 13:17: “Fashion really does play a role in your health and the physical and mental health,” says Zoe 14:52: Kellie encourages listeners to get involved in a cause and become advocates 16:12- What our hosts learned from this episode Watch Kelly “roll the runway” at New York Fashion Week  Contact Our Hosts Steven Newmark, Director of Policy at GHLF: snewmark@ghlf.org Zoe Rothblatt, Associate Director, Community Outreach at GHLF: zrothblatt@ghlf.org We want to hear what you think. Send your comments in the form of an email, video, or audio clip of yourself to thehealthadvocates@ghlf.org Catch up on all our episodes on our website or on your favorite podcast channel.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Trust in public health officials is on a steep decline, so it's no coincidence the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention is ordering an overhaul of its operations. It comes at a time when Dr. Anthony Fauci, Chief Medical Advisor to seven Presidents, has decided to step down at the end of the year. “When the pandemic hit, I think we all had to immediately become public health experts and a lot got lost there,” says Zoe Rothblatt, Associate Director, Community Outreach at Global Healthy Living Foundation. “So maybe now's the time to step back and learn a little bit about how it works.” Among the highlights in this episode: 1:06: Listener comment 1:18: Final rule issued on how surprise bill disputes will be settled 2:34: Pfizer asks the FDA to authorize an updated version of their COVID vaccine 3:08: Another cameo by Macintosh the Dog 4:18: Dr. Anthony Fauci announces he'll be stepping down later this year 6:46: CDC Director Rochelle Walensky orders an overhaul of the structure and operations of the CDC 7:28: Since COVID, public health officials have come under attack 8:12: In two years, confidence in public health officials has declined 10:00: What is and what should be the role of the CDC? 15:34: “My best advice would be something akin to, when necessary, it should be incumbent upon a President to appoint someone almost temporarily to be that Czar, says Steven. 17:45: What our hosts learned from this episode Contact Our Hosts Steven Newmark, Director of Policy at GHLF: snewmark@ghlf.org Zoe Rothblatt, Associate Director, Community Outreach at GHLF: zrothblatt@ghlf.org We want to hear what you think. Send your comments in the form of an email, video, or audio clip of yourself to thehealthadvocates@ghlf.org Catch up on all our episodes on our website or on your favorite podcast channel.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Polio is the latest disease to make a comeback. One case in New York and traces of it found in London and Jerusalem have health advocates sounding an alarm of polio's potential spreading with a renewed look at the vaccine's effectiveness. “It's worrisome that polio can come back. It's worrisome that there may be folks in this day-and-age of vaccine hesitancy and anti-vaxxing that may refrain from giving their children the polio vaccine. That's how viruses come back,” says Steven Newmark, Director of Policy at the Global Healthy Living Foundation. Among the highlights in this episode: 1:12: Listener comment 1:24: The U.S. Senate passes a bill to allow Medicare to negotiate with drug makers on the price of prescription drugs, caps insulin costs for Medicare recipients, and broadens the subsidies available under the Affordable Care Act for another three years 4:27: Novavax COVID-19 vaccine was rolled out but only 7,300 doses have been administered 5:50: For the first time since 2013, New York State discovered a case of polio in an adult 6:04: What is polio? 6:31: A case of polio was detected in Great Britain earlier this summer 7:48: Wasn't polio eradicated in 1988? 10:10: “The polio vaccine is one of the great success stories,” says Steven 10:43: How concerned should we be of these cases of polio? 11:04: What our hosts learned from this episode Contact Our Hosts Steven Newmark, Director of Policy at GHLF: snewmark@ghlf.org Zoe Rothblatt, Patient Advocate and Community Outreach Manager at GHLF: zrothblatt@ghlf.org We want to hear what you think. Send your comments in the form of an email, video, or audio clip of yourself to thehealthadvocates@ghlf.org Catch up on all our episodes on our website or on your favorite podcast channel.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

As the World Health Organization declares monkeypox a global health emergency, the U.S. is getting more aggressive, directing states to share data, while another 800,000 doses of the monkeypox vaccine will soon be available nationwide. All this for the rare but potentially serious disease that is caused by the monkeypox virus. “I think monkeypox is just similar to what we've been doing with COVID,” says Zoe Rothblatt, Associate Director of Community Outreach at Global Healthy Living Foundation. “Stay up to date on the spread of virus in your area. The CDC has a map now that you could check out.” Among the highlights in this episode: 1:09: Listener comment 1:24: A fourth COVID shot, the Novavax vaccine has been approved for use 2:05: Survey: more than 40% of U.S. healthcare workers plan to leave their job within the next five years 3:27: The importance of public health workers 4:15: CreakyJoints article has tips for managing your health care costs  5:46: The World Health Organization declares monkeypox a global emergency 6:16: Defining a global emergency as a call to action 7:04: Examples of previous global emergencies: Swine 09, Zika, and Ebola 8:21: What is monkeypox and how dangerous is it? 8:55: Monkeypox symptoms 9:06: How does monkeypox spread? 9:30: Survival rate if you contract monkeypox 10:03: What you need to know about the monkeypox vaccine 10:49: The risk of spreading monkeypox by having sex 11:15: CDC advice on monkeypox 12:13: The WHO recommends isolating for three weeks if you encounter someone with monkeypox 13:45: What our hosts learned from this episode Contact Our Hosts Steven Newmark, Director of Policy at GHLF: snewmark@ghlf.org Zoe Rothblatt, Patient Advocate and Community Outreach Manager at GHLF: zrothblatt@ghlf.org We want to hear what you think. Send your comments in the form of an email, video, or audio clip of yourself to thehealthadvocates@ghlf.org Catch up on all our episodes on our website or on your favorite podcast channel.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Each day seems to present new questions about COVID, its variants, and the best vaccines. In this episode, we get clear answers from GHLF's own Dr. Daniel Hernandez about our risks to contract COVID and whether to wait for a new vaccine to come to market before getting boosted. “You should get a COVID vaccine even if you have already had COVID. There's no way to know how long immunity lasts after the infection,” says Dr. Hernandez, Director of Medical Affairs and Hispanic Outreach at Global Healthy Living Foundation. “There are very specific vaccines that are coming out. We have to make sure that we're up to date with those as well in order to protect ourselves in the best way possible.” Among the highlights in this episode: 1:10: Listener comment 1:41: GHLF Quick Poll results: 25% of respondents who are immunocompromised have received their fifth vaccination 2:53: UnitedHealthcare eliminates co-pays for insulin 3:51: Parents in Florida are struggling to find vaccines 5:12: Vaccines stimulate different branches of our immune system 6:10: If the vaccines are simple and work, what role do boosters play? 6:56: Why do vaccines sometimes cause side effects? 8:01: “You should get a COVID vaccine even if you have already had COVID,” advises Dr. Hernandez 8:49: Vaccines are believed to be effective for all variants 9:34: Speak to your doctor when deciding when to get further vaccines 10:47: What our hosts learned from this episode Contact Our Hosts Steven Newmark, Director of Policy at GHLF: snewmark@ghlf.org Zoe Rothblatt, Patient Advocate and Community Outreach Manager at GHLF: zrothblatt@ghlf.org We want to hear what you think. Send your comments in the form of an email, video, or audio clip of yourself to thehealthadvocates@ghlf.org Catch up on all our episodes on our website or on your favorite podcast channel.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The recent abortion ruling by the U.S. Supreme Court created an unintended consequence for patients seeking methotrexate, a drug which prolongs the lifespan of people with rheumatoid arthritis and other inflammatory diseases. In this episode, learn how GHLF is championing the cause and advocating for these patients. “Imagine what patients are going through…They're told that they're no longer able to fill that prescription because of a change in a law,” says Conner Mertens, Patient Advocate and Community Outreach Manager at Global Healthy Living Foundation. “It's really scary time for some of these patients.” Among the highlights in this episode: :46: Steven introduces Conner, who hosts his own GHLF podcast with Robert Popovian, Healthcare Matters 1:51: Listener comment 2:17: A new study, led by GHLF's Dr. Popovian, finds that drug formularies often have exclusions that could harm consumers and cost more money 3:29: COVID cases on the rise 4:28: Some women fear losing access to methotrexate as a result of the Supreme Court ruling on abortion 6:47: As health advocates, GHLF has sent a letter to Texas Governor Greg Abbott, seeking clarification on patient access to methotrexate 7:09: The Biden Administration has taken steps to protect abortion rights 8:39: What our hosts Steven and Conner learned from this episode Listen to Healthcare Matters podcast with Robert Popovian and Conner Mertens Contact Our Hosts Steven Newmark, Director of Policy at GHLF: snewmark@ghlf.org Zoe Rothblatt, Patient Advocate and Community Outreach Manager at GHLF: zrothblatt@ghlf.org We want to hear what you think. Send your comments in the form of an email, video, or audio clip of yourself to thehealthadvocates@ghlf.org Catch up on all our episodes on our website or on your favorite podcast channel.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Diseases don't discriminate; anyone can get one or suffer from a chronic illness. But they do disproportionately affect BIPOC and LGBTQIA+ communities. In this episode, Sarah Shaw, BIPOC Outreach Manager at Global Healthy Living Foundation, describes what it's like being a Queer, Black woman living with chronic migraine, endometriosis, and anxiety and how health care providers must improve interaction with these communities. “Maybe if there have been more representation showing that Queer people get migraine. Black, Indigenous, and People of Color get migraine. Men, Women, Trans, and Non-Binary folks get migraine. If that representation had been there, maybe they would have jumped to a migraine conclusion diagnosis first, instead of what I was pushed on, which was, 'Oh, it's just anxiety or stress,' when I was seeking answers,” says Sarah. Among the highlights in this episode: 1:25: Listener comment 1:49: A fifth shot for the immunocompromised is recommended by the CDC 3:47: The impact of overturning Roe v. Wade is having on the immunocompromised community 6:30: The importance of June being Pride Month, Migraine and Headache Awareness Month, and Juneteenth 7:28: Sarah describes being a Queer, Black woman living with chronic migraine, endometriosis, and anxiety 8:39: “Migraine is part of me, my queer identity is a part of me and they interchange,” says Sarah 9:04: Sarah describes how medical practitioners can help members of the BIPOC and LGBTQIA+ communities 9:41: “I think access to health care and treatment is still such a huge issue for folks in the LGBTQIA+ community,” says Sarah 11:49: Sarah discusses her appearance on the GHLF podcast “Talking Head Pain” 13:47: Sarah's advice for others to speak up and advocate 15:08: What our hosts Steven and Zoe learned from this episode Listen here to Sarah's appearance on Talking Head Pain Contact Our Hosts Steven Newmark, Director of Policy at GHLF: snewmark@ghlf.org Zoe Rothblatt, Patient Advocate and Community Outreach Manager at GHLF: zrothblatt@ghlf.org We want to hear what you think. Send your comments, or a video or audio clip of yourself, to thehealthadvocates@ghlf.org Catch up on all our episodes on our website or on your favorite podcast channel.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

When you're in pain, it can be harder to find joy in life. In this episode, we meet Paula Golladay, a double amputee who is a competitive runner and part of a supportive community. Her superpower: She uses humor as a way to appreciate life: “I can walk on hot coals, you can't,” says Paula, laughing. “I can walk on glass, you can't. My socks never ever, ever smell. I can wear one pair of socks for an entire year.” Some highlights in this episode: 1:28: Paula got into athletics in mid-life 2:06: Becoming a double amputee, Paula shifted from cycling to running 2:17: Paula turned to running on a whim 3:35: Paula competed in 68 virtual races during the pandemic 3:50: Paula finally got her runner's blades 4:06: Running is liberating for Paula 5:39: Paula describes what she does when she feels pain and working through discomfort 6:13: “If we are in pain, something is not right and we need to stop or modify what we are doing, because that's contributing to the pain,” says Kathleen 7:09: Paula gets motivation from her running training group 8:15: Have an inner script and a routine to encourage yourself to exercise 9:16: Paula's advice to people struggling to find new passion in life 9:55: Paula finds the right balance of having quiet time and being around people 10:52: Paula is a “proud amputee” 11:23: Paula finds humor in describing the benefits of being a double amputee 11:47: Paula's advice: Believe in yourself and find joy in your life Contact Our Host Dr. Laurie Ferguson, Director of Education at the Global Healthy Living Foundation: lferguson@ghlf.org We want to hear what you think. Send your comments, or a video or audio clip of yourself, to ThrivingWhileAching@ghlf.org Catch up on all our episodes on our website or on your favorite podcast channel.  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

As we get older, our bodies become havens for pain. But there are steps we can all take to keep thriving. In this episode, we meet Orvie Prewitt who was met initially with painful challenges as she aged, but has been able to find ways to manage her pain, lead an active life, and along the way came up with tips for all of us to thrive. "I don't want to sit and watch life go by. I want to become part of life," says Orvie. As an arthritis program coordinator and grandmother, Orvie shares with listeners how she's adapted her old routine so she can continue to make lasting memories with her daughter and granddaughter. Some highlights in this episode: 1:48: “Thriving is really having a quality of life and being able to do some of the things that I really want to do,” says Orvie 2:59: Orvie is challenged with pain everyday 3:13: Orvie shares her tips for thriving while aching 4:09: Being physically active is key to managing arthritis pain, says Kathleen Cameron at the National Council on Aging 4:51: How does Orvie motivate herself when feeling pain? 6:11: Physical activity and healthy eating helped Orvie lose almost 60 pounds 7:30: Orvie's granddaughter served as motivation 8:19: How Orvie started setting realistic goals 9:22: Positive “self-talk” is important too 10:33: Some activities Orvie had to adjust to as she got older 12:46: It's important for patients managing pain to discover new ways to find enjoyment 13:09: One recommendation is to “create a diary of daily activities and include what works for pain management,” suggests Kathleen To learn more about some of the resources that Orvie mentions, you can visit: https://www.moarthritis.org/ Contact Our Host Dr. Laurie Ferguson, Director of Education at the Global Healthy Living Foundation: lferguson@ghlf.org We want to hear what you think. Send your comments, or a video or audio clip of yourself, to ThrivingWhileAching@ghlf.org Catch up on all our episodes on our website or on your favorite podcast channel.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

For people living in pain, it could be difficult to find purpose and positivity in life. In this episode, we meet Beverly Rogers, a woman who grew up during the civil rights movement, was diagnosed with breast cancer, and who has used her experience to advocate for health care. “When my mother got sick, when my child was diagnosed with diabetes, when my husband got Alzheimer's, there were pieces that I could grab from my history, from my experience,” says Beverly. “I think those experiences have brought me to where I am so that now I truly believe that I am thriving.” We also learn from Beverly how she's taking a step back and learning to thrive through an unlikely source – Dancing. Some highlights in this episode: :38: Beverly's background as an advocate for healthcare in the Black community and a breast cancer survivor 1:21: “Aging means that I feel good, I can think well, I have a good appetite, and whatever chronic pain I have is minimal,” says Beverly 1:42: You'll never guess Beverly's age 2:31: Beverly has been a family caregiver for decades 3:22: The civil rights movement laid the foundation for Beverly's activism in healthcare 4:32: How Beverly used her experience and history to help care for family members 5:25: Beverly learns her purpose to empower women to be their best 6:31: Beverly's mom led by example to implement self-care techniques 7:55; Beverly's love and joy is dancing, yoga, and exercise 9:08: Physical activities have a positive impact on our independence and quality of life, says Kathleen Cameron at the National Council on Aging 10:25: Beverly's rituals to manage her pain 12:36: Napping is one way Beverly takes care of herself each day 13:43: The importance of mindfulness in managing pain 14:29: Faith plays a role in Beverly's life Contact Our Host Dr. Laurie Ferguson, Director of Education at the Global Healthy Living Foundation: lferguson@ghlf.org We want to hear what you think. Send your comments, or a video or audio clip of yourself, to ThrivingWhileAching@ghlf.org Catch up on all our episodes on our website or on your favorite podcast channel.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

When your identity is tied to how much you live life, being forced to limit exciting activities as you age can cause you to readjust. In this episode, we meet Joel Bown, who put worthy miles on his joints through rock climbing and skiing, but who today has found other ways to re-engage, be active, and thrive. “The key is to do what you like, as long as you can,” says Joel. “Do activities that other people are doing and befriend them. Find out if you've got more in common than just the fact that you're sitting on the edge of the lake throwing food to the ducks.” Some highlights in this episode: 1:12: For Joel, thriving means “to be able to do the things that I want to do reasonably comfortably.” 1:24: Joel had been very active as a rock climber and a backcountry skier, but it wore out his joints 2:46: How has Joel changed the definition of thriving 3:29: Joel's identity was changed when he was forced to limit his activities 4:22: Joel works with a personal trainer weekly to maintain his strength and mobility 5:17: The benefits and side effects of different pain medications from Kathleen Cameron at the National Council on Aging 7:51: Joel's wife is part of his support system who encourage him to move around and thrive 9:02: “I think the key is to do what you like, as long as you can,” believes Joel 9:38: Joel and his wife bike more and take canoe trips with friends 10:36: Joel, his wife, and friends have thrived during bike excursions in Europe Contact Our Host Dr. Laurie Ferguson, Director of Education at the Global Healthy Living Foundation: lferguson@ghlf.org We want to hear what you think. Send your comments, or a video or audio clip of yourself, to ThrivingWhileAching@ghlf.org Catch up on all our episodes on our website or on your favorite podcast channel.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Have you noticed your symptoms for a common cold during COVID are worse than normal? You're not alone. Researchers believe our acquired immunity is lower, which can be particularly nerve wracking for those in the immunocompromised community.  “The weird thing about the pandemic during the lockdown phase is I didn't get sick,” says Steven Newmark, Director of Policy at Global Healthy Living Foundation. “And I was so used to, my whole life, going through a winter and always having a tickle in my throat or sneezing or what have you. And to have zero illness was just a very strange experience.” Among the highlights in this episode: 1:14: Listener comment 1:44: The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention endorses Pfizer and Moderna vaccines for children as young as 6 months 2:53: Florida is the lone state to not pre-order vaccines for children 3:29: Florida doctors can order vaccines only through the federal government 4:29: Likely passage of new health care and tax-free disability benefits to combat veterans, for conditions ranging from brain cancer to hypertension 5:50: Familiar viruses are acting in unfamiliar ways 6:18: Hospitals are seeing people come in for respiratory viruses, especially children 6:49: Our hosts describe weathering cold and flu seasons during the pandemic 7:35: “I haven't been this sick in two years. It felt so unfamiliar, uncomfortable,” says Zoe 8:09: When Steven recently got a cold, he “couldn't help but wonder if some of that was mental or psychosomatic” 8:35: Researchers believe that acquired immunity is lower for people who stayed inside during the pandemic, including the immunocompromised community 10:34: Experts anticipate that the viruses will fall back into patterns once the population immunity increases 10:52: What our hosts Steven and Zoe learned from this episode Contact Our Hosts Steven Newmark, Director of Policy at GHLF: snewmark@ghlf.org Zoe Rothblatt, Patient Advocate and Community Outreach Manager at GHLF: zrothblatt@ghlf.org We want to hear what you think. Send your comments, or a video or audio clip of yourself, to thehealthadvocates@ghlf.org Catch up on all our episodes on our website or on your favorite podcast channel.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

You're vaccinated, boosted, and perhaps even had COVID. But how much protection do you currently have from the virus or one of its variants? An international group of researchers have developed a new blood test to help assess a person’s COVID immunity. While the test is already used in Europe, the FDA is in the process of reviewing the technology. “If there was an at-home version…I would take it every week. The idea of just knowing and I would feel safe,” says Steven Newmark, Director of Policy at Global Healthy Living Foundation. Among the highlights in this episode: 1:11: We’ve surpassed 10,000 listens to our podcast 1:24: Listeners’ feedback 1:48: Pfizer and Moderna ask the FDA to authorize COVID vaccine for younger kids 2:25: Kaiser Family Foundation: 18% of parents with kids under five are eager to get them a shot, 27% of parents said they will definitely not get their child vaccinated 3:32: Massachusetts distributing another 2 million free COVID testing kits 4:09: U.S. lifts COVID testing requirements for international travelers returning to the United States 5:36: “Our community always feel safer knowing people have tested negative that they're going to be around and get more nervous if safety measures are dropped,” say Zoe 5:59: GHLF Quick Poll: what activities are immunocompromised people comfortable doing this summer 7:26: Zoe describes getting her antibody levels tested 7:50: T cells are the white blood cells that work alongside a virus fighting antibodies to mount an immune response 7:56: An international group of researchers recently developed a new blood test to help assess COVID immunity 8:28: While the test is already used in Europe, the FDA is in the process of reviewing the technology 9:46: This blood test lets you know how much protection from COVID you have 10:29: “If there was an at-home version…I would take it every week, depending on the cost,” says Steven 11:30: What our hosts Steven and Zoe learned from this episode Contact Our Hosts Steven Newmark, Director of Policy at GHLF: snewmark@ghlf.org Zoe Rothblatt, Patient Advocate and Community Outreach Manager at GHLF: zrothblatt@ghlf.org We want to hear what you think. Send your comments, or a video or audio clip of yourself, to thehealthadvocates@ghlf.org Catch up on all our episodes on our website or on your favorite podcast channel.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Health Advocates share several takeaways from attending a medical conference on rheumatology. One was a “bombshell finding” that chronic pain is now identified as its own disease. Another is that people’s level of anger and social isolation have declined after COVID vaccines became widely available. “It was really powerful to come to this conference and realize that there's an abundance of research happening on chronic illness and COVID,” says Zoe Rothblatt, Patient Advocate and Community Outreach Manager at Global Healthy Living Foundation. “And we really aren't being left behind. People are studying and are caring.” Among the highlights in this episode: 1:11: Listeners’ feedback 1:36: Macintosh makes another cameo as we begin season 4 of The Health Advocates 1:57: By a vote of 21-0, experts recommend that the U.S. Food and Drug Administration issue an Emergency Use Authorization for the Novavax vaccine 2:58: “A huge win” for the chronically ill community, says Zoe 3:08: Steven takes his first international trip since the start of the pandemic, a medical conference on rheumatology 3:45: The benefits of attending such conferences 4:28: The best way to be a health advocate is armed with information 4:38: At the conference, “there was a lot of discussion about anxiety and depression for patients, long COVID and its implications for autoimmune patients,” reports Steven 5:38: Bombshell finding: Chronic pain was identified as its own disease 6:28: Other discussions at the conference centered on sexual health, fatigue, diet and exercise, the role of your gut and inflammation overlapping with other conditions 7:09: GHLF research was presented 7:34: GHLF report: levels of anger and social isolation measured in people during the pandemic declined after vaccines became widely available 8:07: “It's very important for the medical providers… to hear the mental health plight that patients go through,” says Steven 8:48: What our hosts Steven and Zoe learned from this episode Contact Our Hosts Steven Newmark, Director of Policy at GHLF: snewmark@ghlf.org Zoe Rothblatt, Patient Advocate and Community Outreach Manager at GHLF: zrothblatt@ghlf.org We want to hear what you think. Send your comments, or a video or audio clip of yourself, to thehealthadvocates@ghlf.org Catch up on all our episodes on our website or on your favorite podcast channel.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to Thriving While Aching, a podcast that inspires and teaches you how to live a fuller life while safely managing pain. Our host, Dr. Laurie Ferguson, Director of Education at Global Healthy Living Foundation, leads conversation with a variety of people who all have one thing in common: they’re living proof of aging gracefully.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Greg and Shelly welcome you to the show. Afterwards, Shelly welcomes back Derrick from HN2DM for another edition of How To DM. This week, Derrick gives Shelly a top 5 list on ways to engage and immerse your players. Our special interview this week is with the Global Healthy Living Foundation's James Dybisz and Grayson Schultz! For general inquiries or show messages, please email dragontalk@sirensound.co Dragon Talk is executively produced by Greg Tito, Shelly Mazzanoble & Wizards of the Coast. Show production by Lisa Carr & Ryan Marth of Siren Sound. Podcast recording, editing, mixing and mastering by Ryan Marth & Siren Sound.Here's your guide to when each segment begins:Show open with Greg Tito and Shelly Mazzanoble - 0:00How To DM - 1:42Interview - 28:12Outro - 1:34:48Greg Tito Twitter - twitter.com/gregtitoShelly Mazzanoble Twitter - twitter.com/shellymooLatest D&D Products - https://gtly.to/SVs8W_2f8D&D Newsletter - dnd.wizards.com/newsletterDragon + - https://dnd.wizards.com/content/dragonD&D Official Discord - https://discord.com/invite/dndHow Not To DM - https://linktr.ee/hn2dmGlobal Healthy Living Foundation - ghlf.orgDungeons & Diagnoses Podcast - ghlf.org/dungeons-and-diagnoses/Dragon Talk Show Page - https://dnd.wizards.com/dragon-talk/podcast-hubSiren Sound - www.sirensound.co

For patients with chronic illness, getting through a day is often daunting. But these same people have the power to impact change when they share their stories. Recently, the Global Healthy Living Foundation participated in an advocacy event to educate lawmakers on challenges facing people with digestive diseases — all in an effort to pass laws to help them. “A brave person who is suffering from a chronic health care condition is willing to visit their legislator in Washington or get on a Zoom to talk about how they're impacted by digestive diseases and educate them about what's happening in their community,” says Dale Dirks of the Digestive Disease National Coalition. Among the highlights in this episode: 1:23: Listener comment 2:16: The history of the Digestive Disease National Coalition 4:02: How the death of Dale’s father from colon cancer led him to advocate for patients 4:31: How new treatments have kept people with Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis alive 5:09: Steven hears people’s frustration with the pace of progress in Congress 6:13: “We convinced Congress to add a colon cancer screening benefit to the Medicare program,” says Dale 6:32: Some of the inroads made by the Digestive Disease National Coalition 7:52: How the digestive community works together 8:35: Ways health advocates are making a difference 9:40: The importance of patient stories in educating lawmakers and passing new laws to help patients 10:25: Advocates from 33 states met with lawmakers on Capitol Hill 12:03: To get involved with the Digestive Disease National Coalition, visit www.ddnc.org 12:27: What our hosts Steven and Zoe learned from this episode Contact Our Hosts Steven Newmark, Director of Policy at GHLF: snewmark@ghlf.org Zoe Rothblatt, Patient Advocate and Community Outreach Manager at GHLF: zrothblatt@ghlf.org We want to hear what you think. Send your comments, or a video or audio clip of yourself, to thehealthadvocates@ghlf.org Catch up on all our episodes on our website or on your favorite podcast channel.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The new Omicron subvariant BA.2 hasn’t stopped the majority of people from lowering their guard against the virus. Cities are opening, businesses are returning their workers, and even New York City unvaccinated athletes and performers are allowed back. “I'm trying to stay calm and I'm really grateful for these at-home tests because I had a COVID exposure last week,” says Zoe Rothblatt, Patient Advocate and Community Outreach Manager at the Global Healthy Living Foundation. “I was able to keep testing and I just felt so reassured to have the test on hand and not freak out like I did in Omicron.” Among the highlights in this episode: 1:25: Listener comment 2:06: Special enrollment opens to sign up for Obamacare 2:50: COVID-19 Patient Support Program Quick Poll: over 90% plan to wear masks in indoor spaces 3:30: Steven receives new duckbill N95 masks 4:35: New Omicron subvariant BA.2 is impacting people’s mental health 5:16: Viruses appearing in wastewater more than in PCR tests 5:50: Congress fails to approve more COVID funding 7:27: “I'm personally just too worried that too many Americans love the phrase, "I'm over COVID. I'm over COVID. It's done," fears Steven 8:28: “Hopefully we won't see a surge,” says Dr. Anthony Fauci 9:06: Researchers say vaccines remain effective at preventing hospitalizations for BA.2 9:45: “I'm trying to stay calm,” says Zoe 12:06: What did our co-hosts Steven and Zoe learn from this episode? Contact Our Hosts Steven Newmark, Director of Policy at GHLF: snewmark@ghlf.org Zoe Rothblatt, Patient Advocate and Community Outreach Manager at GHLF: zrothblatt@ghlf.org We want to hear what you think. Send your comments, or a video or audio clip of yourself, to thehealthadvocates@ghlf.org Catch up on all our episodes on our website or on your favorite podcast channel.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We’ve passed a dubious anniversary we’d all rather forget. This month marks two years since COVID forced the world into a pandemic. In this episode, we look back at how life changed, and what changes may become permanent. “Folks are really struggling with mental health issues two years in the pandemic,” says Zoe Rothblatt, Patient Advocate and Community Outreach Manager at the Global Healthy Living Foundation. “Even more so for our community with underlying conditions.” Among the highlights in this episode: 1:21: Listener comment 2:08: COVID down in the U.S., up in China 3:16: Marking two years since the World Health Organization declared COVID-19 a global pandemic 3:40: What we’ve learned in the two years of COVID 3:48: COVID fueled a growth in telehealth 5:34: Telehealth made it easier to advocate to elected officials 6:03: COVID reveals racial disparities in health care 7:10: COVID led to a new vocabulary, from the “bubble” to “Zoom fatigue” 8:15: COVID brought a rise in outdoor dining 9:04: COVID led to the adoption of wearing masks 9:35: Three COVID vaccines manufactured in one year 9:45: Antiviral therapy created to protect against COVID 10:04: COVID created a dramatic increase in mental health issues 10:20: “It really does feel like people are moving on and don't care,” says Zoe. “And I want to move on and not to care too. But when you're immunocompromised, you really just don't have that luxury.” 10:42: Some formed stronger bonds during COVID, with people and pets 11:22: What did our co-hosts Steven and Zoe learn from this episode? Contact Our Hosts Steven Newmark, Director of Policy at GHLF: snewmark@ghlf.org Zoe Rothblatt, Patient Advocate and Community Outreach Manager at GHLF: zrothblatt@ghlf.org We want to hear what you think. Send your comments, or a video or audio clip of yourself, to thehealthadvocates@ghlf.org Catch up on all our episodes on our website or on your favorite podcast channel.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

One of the best ways to improve health care in the United States is to educate lawmakers. And these days, conversations are made easy through Zoom. Recently, health advocates from the GHLF participated virtually in the Digestive Disease National Coalition's Public Policy Forum. Their aim was to encourage the passing of the Safe Step Act, which would protect patients from insurance companies overriding doctor's recommended therapies, and direct money to digestive disease research. “Virtual advocacy has given us the ability to reach legislators in a way in which we previously weren't able to,” says Corey Greenblatt, Manager of Policy and Advocacy at the Global Healthy Living Foundation. Among the highlights in this episode: 1:13: Listener comment 1:53: Hawaii last state to drop mask mandate 2:36: More government-issued free COVID at-home tests available 3:11: "Test to Treat Initiative"- COVID test and treatment 4:05: Describing the Digestive Disease National Coalition's Public Policy Forum 4:35: Health advocates meet with state delegates to educate lawmakers 5:35: The power of patient stories on lawmakers 6:53: Advocating for step therapy- why it’s a huge issue for patients 7:26: The Safe Step Act would establish common-sense protocols and protections for patients 7:59: Cameo appearance from Corey’s dog Walker 8:16: Analogy of upgrading your cellphone 8:54- Corey describes his and Zoe’s meeting with a Long Island lawmaker 11:28: Steven and Corey confident the Safe Step Act will become law 12:49: Advocating for increased funding for digestive disease research and public health programs 13:53: The power of virtual advocacy through Zoom 15:36: What did our co-hosts Steven and Zoe learn from this episode? Contact Our Hosts Steven Newmark, Director of Policy at GHLF: snewmark@ghlf.org Zoe Rothblatt, Patient Advocate and Community Outreach Manager at GHLF: zrothblatt@ghlf.org We want to hear what you think. Send your comments, or a video or audio clip of yourself, to thehealthadvocates@ghlf.org Catch up on all our episodes on our website or on your favorite podcast channel.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

As the country eases mask mandates, people are now balancing the risk of contracting and transmitting COVID with their decision to let down their guard. For the immunocompromised, there remains caution, concern, and sometimes fear. “Let's also remember that mask optional doesn't mean no mask. You can still wear a mask if you want to. I certainly will,” says Zoe Rothblatt, Patient Advocate and Community Outreach Manager at the Global Healthy Living Foundation. “The Health Advocates are masking up!” Among the highlights in this episode: 1:13: Listener comment 2:00: New research points to the pandemic originating in animals and spread to humans from a seafood market in Wuhan 2:53: Variety of health care developments in the news 3:03: Court rules patients can now appeal if Medicare declines to pay for rehabilitation 3:27: California eases Medicaid qualifications 3:43: Social Security Administration reopens 1,000+ local offices, which allows people to apply for supplemental security income 4:20: Not a lot of health care rulings by Supreme Court nominee Ketanji Brown Jackson 4:43: Health care part of the focus in President Biden’s State of the Union Address 5:13: Mask guidelines are adjusted 8:16: Processing individual’s risk of not wearing masks and transmitting COVID 11:23: “Masks feel like something we can control in contrast to the COVID rates, which don't feel like something we can control,” says Steven 11:45: “Let's also remember that, you know, mask optional doesn't mean no mask. You can still wear a mask if you want to. I certainly will,” says Zoe 13:46: What did our co-hosts Steven and Zoe learn from this episode? Contact Our Hosts Steven Newmark, Director of Policy at GHLF: snewmark@ghlf.org Zoe Rothblatt, Patient Advocate and Community Outreach Manager at GHLF: zrothblatt@ghlf.org We want to hear what you think. Send your comments, or a video or audio clip of yourself, to thehealthadvocates@ghlf.org Catch up on all our episodes on our website or on your favorite podcast channel.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

mRNA vaccines have provided valuable protection against COVID. Now, researchers say they can also be used to create a variety of vaccines and treatments in less time and at lower cost than traditional methods. “The mRNA technology has been known for decades, but it was never fully realized until this crisis. And this new technology is currently being studied in cancer therapies, cystic fibrosis, heart disease and rare genetic conditions,” says Steven Newmark, Director of Policy at the Global Healthy Living Foundation. Among the highlights in this episode: 1:14: Listener comment 1:50: How to receive your free COVID at-home tests 2:08: How California is shifting to an endemic approach to COVID 2:42: “People are desperate to get back to whatever semblance of normalcy they vaguely may remember,” says Governor Gavin Newsom 3:33: Advancements made during COVID, specifically the mRNA vaccines 4:21: How the new mRNA technology works 5:21: The benefit is the ease in tweaking the mRNA genetic sequence 6:03: This new mRNA can be used to create a variety of vaccines and treatments in less time and at lower cost than traditional methods 6:38: “It matters to me as a patient to hear about advancements happening because I know in the future as I get older, there will be new treatments to try,” says Zoe 7:12: Specific advancements in the works with mRNA 8:10: What did our co-hosts Steven and Zoe learn from this episode Contact Our Hosts Steven Newmark, Director of Policy at GHLF: snewmark@ghlf.org Zoe Rothblatt, Patient Advocate and Community Outreach Manager at GHLF: zrothblatt@ghlf.org We want to hear what you think. Send your comments, or a video or audio clip of yourself, to thehealthadvocates@ghlf.org Catch up on all our episodes on our website or on your favorite podcast channel.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Disparities in migraine and headache care exist at every single level, from seeking care to diagnosis to treatment. In this episode, we talk with a leading advocate in the BIPOC community who has made it her life mission to sound the alarm to help reduce disparities in health outcomes. “Migraine is the least funded research area relative to its very high disease burden. And I knew that this was something that I wanted to get involved in,” says Sarah Shaw, BIPOC Patient Advocate, Community Outreach Manager at the Global Healthy Living Foundation. Among the highlights in this episode: 1:16: Listener comment 2:06: The Pfizer vaccine for use in children under five years old is not authorized 4:09: Recommendation to get the fourth shot of the mRNA vaccines three months after the third shot rather than five months 4:23: “COVID-19 Patient Support Program Poll” results: 96% of respondents have received their fourth shot 5:25: Rescinding mask mandates worry immunocompromised community 6:07: How to receive free N95 masks 7:42: Sarah discusses the annual advocacy event “Headache on the Hill” 8:16: How did Sarah first get involved in advocacy? “I feel like accidentally, if I'm being honest” 9:39: How does “Headache on the Hill” work among state groups? 10:43: Disparities within the migraine community 12:33: How Sarah recruited BIPOC advocates 13:46: Story of how an Indigenous community member waited 4 hours to get care and treatment 14:11: “Disparities in migraine and headache care exist at every single level from seeking care to diagnosis to treatment,” says Sarah 17:33: Get involved by joining the GHLF 50 State Network 17:43: What did our co-hosts Steven and Zoe learn from this episode? Contact Our Hosts Steven Newmark, Director of Policy at GHLF: snewmark@ghlf.org Zoe Rothblatt, Patient Advocate and Community Outreach Manager at GHLF: zrothblatt@ghlf.org We want to hear what you think. Send your comments, or a video or audio clip of yourself, to thehealthadvocates@ghlf.org Catch up on all our episodes on our website or on your favorite podcast channel.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

For many, life feels flat from dealing with COVID for nearly two years. In this episode, we examine the growing momentum of states across the United States starting to deal with COVID as an endemic and not a pandemic. “We didn't and we won't eradicate COVID as was a hope once upon a time, but we have to be prepared to live with the endemic phase,” says Steven Newmark, Director of Policy at the Global Healthy Living Foundation. Among the highlights in this episode: 1:08: Listener comment 1:56: Low interest in the Olympics, low interest in many things these days due to the pandemic 2:32: Positive news from the CDC regarding KN95 and K95 masks 2:51: New study results of the effectiveness of wearing masks 4:39: Many states are rolling back mask mandates 6:07: “We didn't and we won't eradicate COVID as was a hope once upon a time, but we have to be prepared to live with the endemic phase,” says Steven 6:17: New treatments becoming available to fight COVID, including the potential for over-the-counter therapies 8:04: Status of government issued at-home rapid COVID tests 8:33: What did our co-hosts Steven and Zoe learn from this episode? Contact Our Hosts Steven Newmark, Director of Policy at GHLF: snewmark@ghlf.org Zoe Rothblatt, Patient Advocate and Community Outreach Manager at GHLF: zrothblatt@ghlf.org We want to hear what you think. Send your comments, or a video or audio clip of yourself, to thehealthadvocates@ghlf.org Catch up on all our episodes on our website or on your favorite podcast channel.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

COVID fatigue has resulted in many people questioning everything from booster to masks — but this fatigue is dangerous to our immunocompromised community. They don’t have the luxury of declaring that COVID is over. “Coping with the uncertainty of yet another variant is taking a toll on our mental health,” says Steven Newmark, Director of Policy at the Global Healthy Living Foundation. “COVID is not over and we'll keep advocating and keep our listeners updated as more information comes out.” Among the highlights in this episode: 1:37: Listener comment 2:11: The trending hashtags on social media declaring COVID is over 3:03: Steven’s frustration with people relaxing COVID safety precautions 3:25: Zoe’s exasperation that she can’t simply declare her health conditions to be over 5:49: Zoe’s arrival of new, blue masks from Project N95 6:46: Zoe learns people aren’t unnecessarily being turned away from receiving their fourth shots 8:57: It’s been a big week for the COVID vaccines 11:05: Stagnant vaccine rates for children 5 to 11 years old 12:01: Word of a new variant emerging 12:54: “COVID is not over,” reminds Steven 13:08: What did our co-hosts Steven and Zoe learn from this episode? Contact Our Hosts Steven Newmark, Director of Policy at GHLF: snewmark@ghlf.org Zoe Rothblatt, Patient Advocate and Community Outreach Manager at GHLF: zrothblatt@ghlf.org We want to hear what you think. Send your comments, or a video or audio clip of yourself, to thehealthadvocates@ghlf.org Catch up on all our episodes on our website or on your favorite podcast channel.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It’s tough enough to live with and manage a chronic illness without insurance companies making it even harder. From utilization management tactics like step therapy to copay accumulator adjusters where insurers charge a patient twice, there are many systems in place that save insurance companies money and increase costs for patients. “Imagine going to a drive-thru and say you know what, I want to be a Good Samaritan, I want to pay for the person's meal behind me,” says Corey Greenblatt, Manager of Policy and Advocacy at the Global Healthy Living Foundation. “Person behind them drives up and the person at the window says, ‘Hey, even though the person in front of you just paid for your meal, you didn't pay for it, so I'm going to charge you again.’ The drive-thru collects the money twice, and the person now has to pay for themselves, even though that was already paid for.” In the second part of our two-part EXTRA on utilization management, we explore how new laws could help patients, plus share ways that patients can get involved and advocate for themselves. Among the highlights in this episode: 1:26: What is utilization management? 2:40: Corey describes how insurance companies are looking for ways to save money and pass costs onto patients 3:25: New state laws are being enacted to help patients deal with utilization management 4:44: What are the specifics of these new laws? 5:27: Why is a federal law required if some states are passing their own laws? 8:18: How can patients know if their state has laws to help? 10:05: What is non-medical switching and why is it harmful to patients? 12:50: What’s the impact that utilization management has on patients who use copay assistance programs? 13:42: Corey’s analogy of a person at a drive-thru restaurant 14:42: The importance of patient stories on elected officials 15:42: How patients can become advocates through GHLF’s 50 State Network 16:11: Zoe shares the template for patients developing an elevator pitch 16:55: What did Steven, Zoe, and Corey learn from this episode? Contact Our Hosts Steven Newmark, Director of Policy at GHLF: snewmark@ghlf.org Zoe Rothblatt, Patient Advocate and Community Outreach Manager at GHLF: zrothblatt@ghlf.org We want to hear what you think. Send your comments, or a video or audio clip of yourself, to thehealthadvocates@ghlf.org Catch up on all our episodes on our website or on your favorite podcast channel.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Athletes competing in the Winter Olympics in China will get a taste of the strict safety precautions many immunocompromised people have been following since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic. “Athletes are not eating out, they're masking up, double masking when needed, and avoiding friends and family,” says Zoe Rothblatt, Patient Advocate and Community Outreach Manager at the Global Healthy Living Foundation. “So I guess the irony is that these super fit athletes are living life like the immunocompromised community,” responds Steven Newmark, Director of Policy at the Global Healthy Living Foundation. In this episode, we dive into the COVID precautions being taken in China. Plus, we discuss the fourth vaccination that immunocompromised people in the United States are now eligible to receive. Among the highlights in this episode: 1:59: The first of many cameo appearances from McIntosh the Dog 2:07: Listener feedback 3:05: The biggest competition may involve the athletes versus COVID 3:21: Describing China’s zero COVID policy 4:46: China’s COVID case loads are low 5:11: China’s vaccination rates and the low quality of its vaccines 5:42: Stories of Chinese citizens being forced into lockdown 7:38: Could the Winter Olympics be canceled? 8:02: The Olympic bubble or “closed loop” that organizers have created to keep athletes safe 9:48: Safety requirements for athletes traveling to China to compete 10:02: “I guess the irony is that these super fit athletes are living life like the immunocompromised community,” says Steven 10:29: Status of the fourth shot immunocompromised people are eligible to receive 11:58: Recommendations for immunocompromised community looking to get a fourth shot 12:33: What did our co-hosts Steven and Zoe learn from this episode? Contact Our Hosts Steven Newmark, Director of Policy at GHLF: snewmark@ghlf.org Zoe Rothblatt, Patient Advocate and Community Outreach Manager at GHLF: zrothblatt@ghlf.org We want to hear what you think. Send your comments, or a video or audio clip of yourself, to thehealthadvocates@ghlf.org Catch up on all our episodes on our website or on your favorite podcast channel.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Insurance companies devise new ways to save and make money. One method is called utilization management, where insurers direct patients to treatments that are counter to what the patient’s doctor recommends. Utilization management is so important and controversial that we’re devoting two episodes to the topic, so patients are better informed and can better advocate for themselves. “Imagine being in the exam room with me and my neurologist and then getting told by your insurance company that you're not eligible for the treatment that you both decided would work for you. That's what happened to me,” says Joe Coe, Director of Digital Education and Strategy at the Global Healthy Living Foundation and host of the Talking Head Pain Podcast. “And my neurologist needed to do a ton of paperwork called prior authorizations to get my medication approved.” Among the highlights in this episode: 2:17: What is utilization management? 4:00: Physicians devote approximately $26.7 billion in time spent navigating utilization management 5:02: Calculating how much time and money patients waste dealing with their insurance companies 7:14: Joe Coe recalls his first migraine attack 8:36: “Utilization management, when I hear that term, it makes my skin crawl,” says Joe 10:34- The challenges patients face in dealing with their insurance companies during their workday 11:34:- Joe’s advice for dealing with insurance companies 12:04: What is a cheat code and why is it crucial for patients to know? 15:33: What did our co-hosts Steven and Zoe learn from this episode? Contact Our Hosts Steven Newmark, Director of Policy at GHLF: snewmark@ghlf.org Zoe Rothblatt, Patient Advocate and Community Outreach Manager at GHLF: zrothblatt@ghlf.org We want to hear what you think. Send your comments, or a video or audio clip of yourself, to thehealthadvocates@ghlf.org Catch up on all our episodes on our website or on your favorite podcast channel.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

As we start a New Year with the Omicron variant raging, there’s both a sense of hope and concern. There’s hope that symptoms are mild and we could reach herd immunity — and there’s concern that many people still aren’t vaccinated and refuse to wear masks. In this episode, co-host Zoe Rothblatt, Patient Advocate and Community Outreach Manager at the Global Healthy Living Foundation, tells the story of a person who recently refused to put on a mask in her apartment building, despite the known mask policy. “The doorman politely said, ‘Could you please put a mask on?’ And then the guy said, ‘Everyone I know has COVID, I'll just get it when I get it. If it's my time to go, it's my time to go. Why do we even need this?’ And I was standing right there being like, you have no idea that you think this is a young healthy group here, but it's not and people are living with serious conditions,” laments Zoe. Among the highlights in this episode: 1:30: Listener comment 2:51: Status of Omicron by the numbers 3:20: Two pieces of positive news regarding Omicron 5:22: Immunocompromised community very worried 5:26: 80% of our survey respondents worried about Omicron 6:04: Boggles co-host Steven’s mind how people won’t mask up 6:53: Boosters protect from Omicron, including 12-15 years old in the U.S. 8:02: Approval of a fourth shot in Israel and soon in the U.S. 9:06: Could Omicron lead to herd immunity? 9:35: Need to focus on the mental health aspect of Omicron 9:59: Zoe tells of getting “mask-shamed” 11:03: Steven’s holiday dealing with unmasked people 11:41: Zoe recounts a man with no mask in her apartment building 12:10: “There's an excess of selfishness.” —Steven 12:16: NYC anger: a school bus driver goes ballistic on an elderly motorist 13:48: How education provides a respect for science and facts 14:28: “Everyone is their own unique scientist these days, just like they are politicians.” — Zoe 15:18: Sorting through which mask and how many we should wear to fight Omicron 16:16: What did our co-hosts Steven and Zoe learn from this episode? Contact Our Hosts Steven Newmark, Director of Policy at GHLF: snewmark@ghlf.org Zoe Rothblatt, Patient Advocate and Community Outreach Manager at GHLF: zrothblatt@ghlf.org We want to hear what you think. Send your comments, or a video or audio clip of yourself, to thehealthadvocates@ghlf.org Catch up on all our episodes on our website or on your favorite podcast channel.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The rise in Omicron has put added stress on doctors and nurses, as well as on our emotions as we weigh whether to change holiday plans. New restrictions are in place, people are double-masking, boosters lag behind, and at-home COVID tests are hard to find. The uncertainty in how we should respond to Omicron reminds one of our hosts of a famous George Carlin joke, bouncing emotions between an idiot and a maniac. “If I'm double masked, and I see someone wearing three masks, I'm like that person's crazy. That person's a lunatic. But if I see someone with only one mask or not masked, of course, I'm like, what an idiot, that person's an idiot,” says Steven Newmark, Director of Policy at the Global Healthy Living Foundation. Among the highlights in this episode: : 55: Listener comment 1:42: Omicron now makes up 70% of the COVID infections in the U.S. 2:25: Are we reliving March 2020? 2:55: Hospitals are better prepared 3:06: Restrictions return from Broadway to Europe 3:47: “All of us want to spend time with friends and family. But an event canceled is better than a life canceled,” says Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, Director-General of the World Health Organization 4:04: Immunocompromised living in fear 4:46: Will co-hosts Steven and Zoe change their holiday plans? 6:15: The pursuit and cost of at-home COVID tests 7:02: “It should be simple to take a test in the comfort of your own home,” says Steven 7:47: Some Urgent Care locations are temporarily closing because they’re overwhelmed 8:14: The Biden Administration’s plan to fight Omicron 9:24: New drug to help the immunocompromised community 10:38: Steven now more concerned about his sanity than safety 10:47: Idiot or maniac? How a George Carlin joke reminds Steven about people with COVID 11:51: The type of mask you wear matters 13:08: Update on Build Back Better legislation that could help patients 13:49: What did our co-hosts Steven and Zoe learn from this episode? Contact Our Hosts Steven Newmark, Director of Policy at GHLF: snewmark@ghlf.org Zoe Rothblatt, Patient Advocate and Community Outreach Manager at GHLF: zrothblatt@ghlf.org We want to hear what you think. Send your comments, or a video or audio clip of yourself, to thehealthadvocates@ghlf.org Catch up on all our episodes on your favorite channel or on our website.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Pandemics historically end after two to three years but with the emerging Omicron variant, the question is, are we coming out of the pandemic or going backward? And how will we know when we cross the finish line that the pandemic is over? “There's never going to be a bright line that we cross but there'll be a moment when hospitalizations are down, when we have the therapeutics to help us if we do get sick, similar with the flu and hopefully the strains will become less and less virulent,” says Steven Newmark, Director of Policy at the Global Healthy Living Foundation. Among the highlights in this episode: : 44- Listener comment 1:19- When will the pandemic end? 1:47- Some states reimposing mask mandates 2:47- Similarities between COVID and the 1918 flu pandemic 3:35- How the 1918 pandemic came to an end 4:45- “Historically, most pandemics end roughly (after) two to three years” 5:36- Today, many people have returned to their normal way of living 5:55- Steven tempted to encourage strangers on the NYC subway to wear masks 7:40- Comparisons of the Delta and Omicron variants 8:34- When will the Omicron variant peak in the United States? 10:14- Steven- “Testing in our country has become a fiasco.” 11:49- What can policymakers and advocates do to help 12:30- What did our hosts Steven and Zoe learn from this episode? Contact Our Hosts Steven Newmark- Director of Policy at GHLF. snewmark@ghlf.org Zoe Rothblatt, Patient Advocate and Community Outreach Manager at GHLF. zrothblatt@ghlf.org We want to hear what you think. Send your comments, or a video or audio clip of yourself to thehealthadvocates@ghlf.org Catch up on all our episodes and the previous season at The Health Advocates or on your favorite podcast channel. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.