6 Simple Healthy Living Tips for a Happier and Healthier You

By Barbara Ficarra, RN, BSN, MPA  “A good life is when you assume nothing, do more, need less, smile often, dream big, laugh a lot and realize how blessed you are for what you have.” — Unknown Healthy living is about being in charge of your health. It means being proactive and empowered to take action. Healthy living is about doing simple things—which bring you calmness and serenity, and it can have a big impact…

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List of Health Care Social Media and Digital Influencers on Twitter

By Barbara Ficarra, RN, BSN, MPA Marie Ennis-O’Connor (@JBBC) is a healthcare writer, public relations consultant, and digital media strategist. Marie recently compiled a list of 84 health care social media and digital influencers on Twitter. Twitter is a powerful social networking platform and it allows health professionals to deeply connect and engage with the community. Health care professionals can help educate consumers, raise awareness of health issues and collaborate. This phenomenal platform gives a…

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What is a Medical Emergency?

By Barbara Ficarra, RN, BSN, MPA About Emergencies: What is a medical emergency and when to call 9-1-1 Debate brews over whether emergency departments are busier since the Affordable Healthcare Act expanded insurance coverage the beginning of this year. While the debate continues, it is important for you to understand what a medical emergency is and when to call 9-1-1. The information in this post, What is a Medical Emergency? is from the American College of Emergency…

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A TEDEd Presentation, Sugar: Hiding in plain sight, plus other names for added sugar

By Barbara Ficarra, RN, BSN, MPA This is a short charming animated informational TED-Ed Original presentation, Sugar: Hiding in plain sight-Robert Lustig. “While sugar is easy to spot in candy, soft drinks and ice cream, it also hides out in foods you might not expect — including peanut butter, pasta sauce and even bologna! Robert Lustig decodes confusing labels and sugar’s many aliases to help determine just how much of that sweet carbohydrate makes its…

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Sharecare Helps to Engage and Empower Consumers with Mobile Health App-AskMD

By Barbara Ficarra, RN, BSN, MPA From digital to doctor with a click on your iPhone or iPod touch Self-diagnosing is not a good idea, but arming yourself with accurate, credible and trustworthy information is a great idea. It’s such an exciting time in health care today. Digital technology helps to empower and engage consumers to take charge of their health, and it fosters consumers to be active participants in their healthcare. One way to…

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