Patient safety is a public health concern, as everyone interacts with the health care system. Every detail matters when it comes to providing the highest quality care that is safe and error-free. Patient Safety Awareness Week aims to acknowledge the steps needed to improve patient safety while recognizing the work already being done to protect health care patients.

This week we thank the contributions professionals have made in advancing patient safety, reducing uncertainty, and maximizing value.

Celebrated annually on March 8th, International Women’s Day commemorates the historic journey all women have embarked to accomplish. In 1849, Elizabeth Blackwell, MD became the first woman to earn a medical degree in the United States. According to the United States Census, women now hold more than 75% of healthcare jobs.

We are proud and grateful for the strong and courageous women in our lives, our workplaces, and our communities. Thank you for always safeguarding our health, and for all the amazing work done for the healthcare industry. Happy International Women’s Day!

March is Social Work Month, a time that recognizes the dedication and empathy social workers deliver while providing services to those in need. Social workers provide support to people of all backgrounds, in our communities. They guide us through the obstacles and help lift us out of the potholes.

Social workers provide a voice for equal rights for the weakest of us and connect us to resources when we are in need. They touch millions of lives each day and it is likely a social worker at some time will assist you, a family member, or a friend.

Social workers continue to work on the frontlines throughout the pandemic, helping patients get the health care they need and helping loved ones overcome grief and loss. Take some time out this month to recognize social workers and the great things they do.

Recreational therapy uses activities such as music and crafts to stimulate and improve overall health. This type of therapy has been found to have social, physical, and cognitive benefits. Recreational Therapists help individuals improve their range of motion, build relationships and increase mental alertness through a range of activities and community-based interventions.

February is Recreational Therapy Month to raise awareness of the positive impact recreational program have on people.

More than 650,000 Americans die from heart disease each year, according to the CDC. It is the leading cause of death for American men and women. We observe American Heart Month in February to remind everyone about the risks factors of heart disease and how to keep your heart healthy.

While high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and tobacco use are key risk factors for heart disease there are other medical conditions and lifestyles that can put you at higher risk of heart disease:

• Diabetes
• Not Enough Physical Activity
• Excessive Alcohol Intake

Take time this month to learn about the many ways you can keep your heart healthy. We have listed a few healthy ways that you can start today:

• Get 7-8 hours of quality Sleep
• Eat a Healthy Diet
• Physical Activity
• Monitor your Cholesterol and Blood Pressure

You don’t have to make big changes at once, small steps will get you where you want to go.

Tinnitus, commonly referred to as “ringing in the ears” affects 15 – 20 percent of people. Tinnitus is usually caused by an underlying condition, such as age-related hearing loss, an ear injury, or a problem with the circulatory system.

Tinnitus Awareness Week is observed during the first full week of February to educate others on the symptoms and how it affects people.

Cervical Cancer is when cancer cells arise in the cervix. According to the National Cancer Institute, more than 14,000 women in the United States are diagnosed with cervical cancer.

January was declared Cervical Health Awareness Month to raise awareness and increase education in preventative methods such as regular screenings.

The thyroid is located in the neck and consists of a small butterfly-shaped gland. The gland influences the function of important organs such as the brain, lier, heart and kidneys. Its most important function is to make hormones that travel in the blood to control your metabolism, digestion and regulation body temperature.

January recognizes Thyroid Awareness Month to remind other of the 30 million Americans affected by thyroid disease.

As vital members of a medical care team, pharmacists consistently make a difference in their patients’ lives. Through managing complex drug regimens, counseling on use and helping navigate insurance and cost concerns, pharmacist have an irreplaceable role in healthcare.

Adults average two to four colds a year. It’s time to thank the healthcare workers that keep us through the year. January 12th celebrates National Pharmacist Day, a day that recognizes the importance of pharmacist and their impact on our health and well-being.

National Blood Donor Month is recognized every January for nearly 50 years to remind others about the lifesaving impact of blood and platelet donors. According to America’s Blood Center, 31,000 pints of blood are used every day. 

January is one of the most difficult times to maintain a sufficient blood supply for patients. Make a difference in the new year, and schedule an appointment to donate!