Written by Leigh Ann Nielson, PLM Member My name is Leigh Ann Nielson and I was diagnosed with ALS/Lou Gehrig’s Disease on November 27, 2019. It has been quite a journey. I am not a doctor, nor do I advocate for not following your doctor’s advice. That said, you have choices. Be sure your medical… Continue reading Hints and Ideas for Those with ALS or Mobility Issues and Their Caregivers
The Different Types of MS
Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic disease that affects the brain and spinal cord. It is thought to be an autoimmune disease. This means that the body’s immune system attacks its own healthy tissue. This attack causes inflammation and damage, which in turn disrupts the communication signals between the brain and the rest of the… Continue reading The Different Types of MS
14 Questions You Should Ask to Prepare for a Clinical Trial
A clinical trial is a research study that tests a medical, surgical, or behavioral intervention to find out whether they are safe and effective! Because of clinical trials we now enjoy modern conveniences like pacemakers and the covid vaccine. You may be in a position to participate in one, but have questions going in. That… Continue reading 14 Questions You Should Ask to Prepare for a Clinical Trial
Navigating Job Interviews with a Mental Health Condition: Tips for Success
Estimated reading time: 3 minutes Living with a mental health condition? See these helpful pointers for your next job interview Job interviews can be nerve-wracking for anyone, but for those living with mental health conditions, they can present unique challenges. From deciding whether to disclose your condition to managing interview anxiety, there’s a lot to… Continue reading Navigating Job Interviews with a Mental Health Condition: Tips for Success
Types of Depression
Although feeling down is a normal part of life, persistent and constant feelings of sadness could mean that you have a type of clinical depression. There are many different types of depression. Events in your life cause some, while chemical changes in your brain cause others. With the right help, most types of depression are… Continue reading Types of Depression
Working with a Chronic Condition: Your Rights and Options for Sharing with Your Employer and Taking Leave
Estimated reading time: 4 minutes Navigating Work with a Chronic Condition: Your Rights and Options Living with a chronic health condition can present unique challenges in the workplace. Many individuals find themselves struggling to balance their professional responsibilities with the unpredictable nature of their symptoms. If you’re in this situation, you’re not alone. In fact,… Continue reading Working with a Chronic Condition: Your Rights and Options for Sharing with Your Employer and Taking Leave
The Doctors Involved in Treating Fibromyalgia
The treatment of some conditions requires collaboration. Doctors that specialize in treating certain areas of the body may be brought in for their expert opinions and advice, especially for a condition like fibromyalgia. It is notoriously complex, and often requires a team of healthcare professionals to diagnose and treat. As a patient, you may be… Continue reading The Doctors Involved in Treating Fibromyalgia
Dealing with Itchiness from Skin Cancer
Itchiness, or pruritus, is an irritating sensation that makes you want to scratch your skin. Everyone experiences itchiness from time to time. Bug bites, poison ivy, a reaction to the sun, there are a number of things that cause it! Persistent itching, however, can be particularly bothersome and may indicate an underlying health issue. Research… Continue reading Dealing with Itchiness from Skin Cancer
Honoring Juneteenth in Healthcare
Looking Back and Looking Forward Juneteenth marks the anniversary of June 19th, 1865, when more than 250,000 enslaved people were freed in Texas, a confederate state. This commemoration is and has been a critical holiday for Black people in America. Why? Here’s a quick historical overview: Join us today as we challenge you to… Continue reading Honoring Juneteenth in Healthcare
Do I Need to Be a Member? Accessing Optum Perks Online Care
Optum Perks Online Care is a virtual healthcare platform that allows you to get questions and concerns addressed by licensed healthcare professionals! This means you can submit something you are wondering about, symptoms, and questions online at any time, and a healthcare provider will review and respond with treatment plan options in 15 minutes or… Continue reading Do I Need to Be a Member? Accessing Optum Perks Online Care