Author: sjacob

Steve is a senior marketing and public relations consultant for Baylor Scott & White Health. He spent nearly four decades in newspaper and magazine editorial and business management and is the author of two books on healthcare reform. He was also the founding editor of D Magazine's D Healthcare Daily.
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Baylor Scott & White addresses social determinants of health through community volunteer initiative

Being born into poverty, growing up with curtailed opportunities for education and employment, living in a disadvantaged neighborhood — these factors, called social determinants of health, are like the cards you’re dealt in a game of poker. It’s hard to win if the deck is stacked against you. Social determinants of health are the economic … Continue reading Baylor Scott & White addresses social determinants of health through community volunteer initiative

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For chronic pain, opioids are not a good long-term solution

More than one in 10 American adults experienced pain every day for the past three months, according to data from the National Institutes of Health. When pain lasts three months or longer, it is considered chronic pain. The prevalence of chronic pain in the U.S. lies at the root of an ongoing epidemic of prescription … Continue reading For chronic pain, opioids are not a good long-term solution

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Reducing the risk of opioid abuse after surgery

Opioids can be useful immediately after surgery for postoperative pain control, but there is a tendency to overprescribe. A recent study found that 6 percent of patients continued to use the drugs for at least three months after surgery. “Traditionally, doctors would prescribe (opioids) until the patient phone calls stopped,” said Walter Peters, MD, chief … Continue reading Reducing the risk of opioid abuse after surgery

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How Baylor Scott & White Health is combatting the growing opioid epidemic

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that 44 people fatally overdose on prescription opioids daily in the U.S. That exceeds the daily number of deaths caused by motor vehicle crashes. One forecast estimates that as many as 650,000 people — nearly the combined population of the cities of Arlington and Plano — … Continue reading How Baylor Scott & White Health is combatting the growing opioid epidemic

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Women in Medicine: How this female transplant surgeon inspires

In Women in Medicine, read stories of Baylor Scott & White physicians, leaders and employees who are paving the way for women in the field of medicine. As early as age 5, Tiffany Anthony, MD, knew she wanted to become a doctor. The personal impact of a pediatrician inspired her to pursue a career in medicine. … Continue reading Women in Medicine: How this female transplant surgeon inspires

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Can a saliva test really detect your genetic “risk” of Alzheimer’s?

Unlocking the data stored within our DNA can help us learn a host of different things about our ancestry and health. But how much should you worry if your genes are linked to the development of disease? 23andMe, a genetic testing company, aims to arm people with foreshadowing about their health risks. It recently received … Continue reading Can a saliva test really detect your genetic “risk” of Alzheimer’s?

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A physician trained in space medicine brings skills to wound care

As far back as she can remember, Laurie Aten, MD, wanted to be part of the space program. Instead, she pursued a career in medicine. Then opportunity knocked. After practicing family medicine for four years, Dr. Aten applied for a residency in aerospace medicine at Wright State University in Ohio. “I decided if I was … Continue reading A physician trained in space medicine brings skills to wound care