Find new ways to energize the health of those you care for to improve outcomes—for them and your organization—with actionable insight right here. The very latest in research, trends, resources, and events. Health habits and preferences of your key consumer segments. Peer-reviewed studies that document the results of best-practice health and well-being strategies. All the latest information, and all in one place, for you to discover, explore, and take action on whenever you need.
On February 16, 2022
Ann Bilyew, SVP of Health at Internet Brands and Group GM of WebMD Provider Services sits down with Niko Skievanski of Redox to discuss emerging trends in health tech and how health systems and hospitals can transform to deliver patient-centered care.
Patient Engagement, Technology, Interoperability, Patient Experience
On June 30, 2022
If you’re a health system leader aspiring to transform patient interactions into a modern consumer brand experience, today’s a good day. I’m excited to welcome Mercury Healthcare, a world-class healthcare marketing technology company to the WebMD team. Mercury’s impressive suite of solutions provides health systems the ability to analyze, target and precisely communicate to the right patient with the right message all while empowering their clients with transparency, performance data and...
On June 28, 2022
Dedicated to heart health for Blacks and other minorities since 1974 The Association of Black Cardiologists (ABC) was founded to bring special attention to the disparate and often unrecognized impact that cardiovascular disease and stroke have on African-American and other minority communities. A non-profit 501(c)(3) organization, it unites over 2,000 diverse health professionals, lay members of the community, corporate and institutional members in one mission: to promote the prevention and...
Patient Engagement, Healthy Lifestyle, Healthcare Providers, Case study, Health Education
On June 28, 2022
The Association of Black Cardiologists is the premier organization dedicated to one mission: promote the prevention and treatment of cardiovascular disease, including stroke, and to achieve health equity for all through the elimination of health disparities. Since 1974, this non-profit has worked to achieve health equity, advocate for equal access to medical care and technologies, and mentor young physicians of color, particularly Black cardiologists. Learn more about the mission of the...
On June 22, 2022
People who consistently have higher depressive symptoms may be at higher risk for a stroke, according to new research. But stroke risk did not increase in those with decreasing severity of symptoms over time, even if they had high depressive symptoms early on. Past studies show a possible link between depression and the risk of stroke, which occurs when a blood vessel supplying the brain is either blocked by a clot or ruptures. Stroke is a leading cause of long-term disability and death...
Healthy Lifestyle, Behavior Change, Health Engagement, American Heart Association, Disease Management
On June 10, 2022
The Healthcare Effectiveness Data and Information Set (HEDIS) is the most important tool health plans use for measuring clinical performance and plan quality. HEDIS is administered by the National Committee for Quality Assurance (NCQA), which collects the data and evolves the HEDIS measurement set annually. Over 90% of plans, enrolling 191 million Americans, use HEDIS annually to measure their performance.
On June 8, 2022
The rate of pregnancy-related high blood pressure disorders doubled in the U.S. between 2007 and 2019, according to new research that finds 1 in 5 births now results in such a disorder, a preterm delivery or a baby with low birth weight. The study, published Wednesday in the Journal of the American Heart Association, fills in important details about women's heart health during a crucial period of their lives, because those pregnancy complications are linked to a long-term risk of heart disease,...
On May 24, 2022
The importance of social determinants of health My first job as a nurse was in the progressive care unit, often caring for patients with chronic conditions like COPD, CHF, and diabetes. There was much to learn as a new nurse, but it didn’t take me long to recognize repeat patients. They had just been discharged a few weeks or days before in stable condition with a plan for follow-up appointments, new medicines, and dietary changes. On their second admission, it would surface that they didn’t go...
On May 17, 2022
Adults who reported experiencing abuse during childhood could have a higher risk of Type 2 diabetes and high cholesterol, according to new research that found risk varied by gender and race. The new study, published Wednesday in the Journal of the American Heart Association, showed the risk lessened for white women and Black men if they also grew up in "well-organized households" in which family members were engaged in their lives.
Patient Education, Health Observances, American Heart Association, Disease Management
On May 17, 2022
About 191 million individuals are enrolled in health plans that use the Healthcare Effectiveness Data and Information Set (HEDIS) as their most important tool in evaluating plan quality and clinical performance. HEDIS is administered by the National Committee for Quality Assurance (NCQA), which collects the data and evolves the HEDIS measurement set annually. HEDIS matters, as NCQA plan accreditation is based on HEDIS results combined with Consumer Assessment of Healthcare Providers and Systems...
On May 3, 2022
People taking part in the historic Framingham Heart Study are living longer and with less risk of having a heart attack, stroke or dying from coronary heart disease, according to a new analysis that underscores the power of prevention, screening and treatment efforts. Scientists have known for decades about the risks posed by plaque buildup in the arteries. Coronary heart disease, for example, caused 360,900 deaths in the U.S. in 2019, according to statistics from the American Heart Association.
Healthy Lifestyle, Behavior Change, Health Engagement, American Heart Association, Disease Management
On April 28, 2022
The Request for Proposals process requires advance preparation and top-notch partners Health plans have new opportunities to serve their communities and acquire new members through value-based Managed Care Programs for Medicaid and Medicare plans. As a manager leading this effort or having it impact your business line, your plan can serve these prospective members well. Yet to submit a winning Request for Proposal (RFP), it’s a deadline-driven commitment demanding time, attention, and...
Patient Education, Population Health Management, Health Engagement, Payer/Health Plans, Patient Experience, Care Management, Health Education, Disease Management, Medicare, Medicaid, Member education
On April 20, 2022
2022 wins bring total to 136 awards in last 6 years. Each year, our Krames team looks forward to seeing custom marketing solutions we develop in partnership with our hospital, health system, health plan, and association clients judged against best-in-class marketing and communications programs in the global Hermes Creative Awards. Sponsored by the Association of Marketing and Communication Professionals, it’s one of the largest and oldest creative competitions, drawing more than 6,000 entries...
On April 19, 2022
Keeping on top of COVID-19 and the impact on your health care environment is a never-ending task. With variants of the SARS-CoV-2 virus continuing to threaten both patient health and hospital capacity, we know the importance of providing up-to-date information. The CDC actively monitors all coronavirus variants to make recommendations about the classification of variants (variant of concern, variant of interest, and variants being monitored). Some are considered variants of interest: based on...
Patient Education, Population Health Management, Health Engagement, Healthcare Providers, COVID-19, Patient Experience
On April 5, 2022
For more than two years, COVID-19's direct harm has been visible in overflowing intensive care wards and grim statistics. Now, some of its indirect effects are coming into focus. Studies are linking the pandemic to higher rates of fatal heart disease and stroke, deaths from addiction-related problems and more. The exact causes of these connections are still being determined, experts say, but the effects may be long-lasting.
Population Health Management, Healthy Lifestyle, Behavior Change, Health Engagement, American Heart Association
On April 1, 2022
A new set of recommendations aimed at helping doctors prevent and manage heart failure expand the focus on people at risk or showing early signs of the condition. The latest guidelines from the American Heart Association, American College of Cardiology and Heart Failure Society of America emphasize the importance of optimizing blood pressure and adhering to a healthy lifestyle to prevent the disease, along with new treatment strategies for people already showing symptoms. The recommendations...
Population Health Management, Healthy Lifestyle, Behavior Change, Health Engagement, American Heart Association
On March 30, 2022
Health plans have a new and advanced option for their care management teams coaching high and rising risk members. VirtualHealth, the industry-leading SaaS solution for comprehensive medical management, is partnering with WebMD Provider Services to directly access Krames’ trusted, industry-leading multimedia health information from within VirtualHealth’s HELIOS® platform.
Population Health Management, Health Engagement, Payer/Health Plans, Care Journey, Member Engagement, Care Management, Health Education
On March 22, 2022
Eating a predominantly plant-based diet may substantially slow the rate of cognitive decline in older Black adults in the U.S., according to preliminary research. However, this dietary pattern had less effect on cognitive decline in older white adults, according to the findings presented Friday at the American Heart Association's Epidemiology and Prevention, Lifestyle and Cardiometabolic Health conference in Chicago.
Population Health Management, Healthy Lifestyle, Behavior Change, Health Engagement, American Heart Association
On March 15, 2022
People with bipolar disorder, schizophrenia or schizoaffective disorders may have a higher risk for cardiovascular disease at younger ages than those without a serious mental health condition, according to new research. "Previous research has indicated that people diagnosed with a serious mental illness die 10 to 20 years earlier than the general population, and their leading cause of death is heart disease," Dr. Rebecca C. Rossom said in a news release. She led the study published Wednesday in...
Population Health Management, Healthy Lifestyle, Behavior Change, Health Engagement, American Heart Association
On February 22, 2022
People who follow seven rules for healthy living – such as staying physically active and eating a healthy diet – could offset a high genetic risk for heart disease, according to new research that suggests it could mean as many as 20 extra years of life free of heart disease. The study, published Monday in the American Heart Association journal Circulation, found people with high cumulative genetic risk scores for heart disease could dramatically lower that risk if they adhered to seven...
Patient Education, Population Health Management, Healthy Lifestyle, Behavior Change, Health Engagement, American Heart Association
On February 22, 2022
Brain diseases, including Alzheimer's disease and other forms of dementia, are closely connected to heart health. They are affected by everyday actions and rank among the nation's leading causes of death. That's the portrait of brain health that emerges from the American Heart Association's "Heart Disease and Stroke Statistics – 2022 Update" published Wednesday in the journal Circulation. It's the first time the annual report has dedicated a chapter to brain health.
Patient Education, Healthy Lifestyle, Behavior Change, Health Engagement, American Heart Association
On June 28, 2022
The Association of Black Cardiologists is the premier organization dedicated to one mission: promote the prevention and treatment of cardiovascular disease, including stroke, and to achieve health equity for all through the elimination of health disparities. Since 1974, this non-profit has worked to achieve health equity, advocate for equal access to medical care and technologies, and mentor young physicians of color, particularly Black cardiologists. Learn more about the mission of the...
On June 22, 2022
People who consistently have higher depressive symptoms may be at higher risk for a stroke, according to new research. But stroke risk did not increase in those with decreasing severity of symptoms over time, even if they had high depressive symptoms early on. Past studies show a possible link between depression and the risk of stroke, which occurs when a blood vessel supplying the brain is either blocked by a clot or ruptures. Stroke is a leading cause of long-term disability and death...
Healthy Lifestyle, Behavior Change, Health Engagement, American Heart Association, Disease Management
On June 10, 2022
The Healthcare Effectiveness Data and Information Set (HEDIS) is the most important tool health plans use for measuring clinical performance and plan quality. HEDIS is administered by the National Committee for Quality Assurance (NCQA), which collects the data and evolves the HEDIS measurement set annually. Over 90% of plans, enrolling 191 million Americans, use HEDIS annually to measure their performance.
On June 30, 2022
If you’re a health system leader aspiring to transform patient interactions into a modern consumer brand experience, today’s a good day. I’m excited to welcome Mercury Healthcare, a world-class healthcare marketing technology company to the WebMD team. Mercury’s impressive suite of solutions provides health systems the ability to analyze, target and precisely communicate to the right patient with the right message all while empowering their clients with transparency, performance data and...
On June 30, 2022
If you’re a health system leader aspiring to transform patient interactions into a modern consumer brand experience, today’s a good day. I’m excited to welcome Mercury Healthcare, a world-class healthcare marketing technology company to the WebMD team. Mercury’s impressive suite of solutions provides health systems the ability to analyze, target and precisely communicate to the right patient with the right message all while empowering their clients with transparency, performance data and...
On June 28, 2022
Dedicated to heart health for Blacks and other minorities since 1974 The Association of Black Cardiologists (ABC) was founded to bring special attention to the disparate and often unrecognized impact that cardiovascular disease and stroke have on African-American and other minority communities. A non-profit 501(c)(3) organization, it unites over 2,000 diverse health professionals, lay members of the community, corporate and institutional members in one mission: to promote the prevention and...
Patient Engagement, Healthy Lifestyle, Healthcare Providers, Case study, Health Education
On June 28, 2022
The Association of Black Cardiologists is the premier organization dedicated to one mission: promote the prevention and treatment of cardiovascular disease, including stroke, and to achieve health equity for all through the elimination of health disparities. Since 1974, this non-profit has worked to achieve health equity, advocate for equal access to medical care and technologies, and mentor young physicians of color, particularly Black cardiologists. Learn more about the mission of the...
On June 22, 2022
People who consistently have higher depressive symptoms may be at higher risk for a stroke, according to new research. But stroke risk did not increase in those with decreasing severity of symptoms over time, even if they had high depressive symptoms early on. Past studies show a possible link between depression and the risk of stroke, which occurs when a blood vessel supplying the brain is either blocked by a clot or ruptures. Stroke is a leading cause of long-term disability and death...
Healthy Lifestyle, Behavior Change, Health Engagement, American Heart Association, Disease Management
On June 10, 2022
The Healthcare Effectiveness Data and Information Set (HEDIS) is the most important tool health plans use for measuring clinical performance and plan quality. HEDIS is administered by the National Committee for Quality Assurance (NCQA), which collects the data and evolves the HEDIS measurement set annually. Over 90% of plans, enrolling 191 million Americans, use HEDIS annually to measure their performance.
On June 8, 2022
The rate of pregnancy-related high blood pressure disorders doubled in the U.S. between 2007 and 2019, according to new research that finds 1 in 5 births now results in such a disorder, a preterm delivery or a baby with low birth weight. The study, published Wednesday in the Journal of the American Heart Association, fills in important details about women's heart health during a crucial period of their lives, because those pregnancy complications are linked to a long-term risk of heart disease,...
On May 24, 2022
The importance of social determinants of health My first job as a nurse was in the progressive care unit, often caring for patients with chronic conditions like COPD, CHF, and diabetes. There was much to learn as a new nurse, but it didn’t take me long to recognize repeat patients. They had just been discharged a few weeks or days before in stable condition with a plan for follow-up appointments, new medicines, and dietary changes. On their second admission, it would surface that they didn’t go...
On May 17, 2022
Adults who reported experiencing abuse during childhood could have a higher risk of Type 2 diabetes and high cholesterol, according to new research that found risk varied by gender and race. The new study, published Wednesday in the Journal of the American Heart Association, showed the risk lessened for white women and Black men if they also grew up in "well-organized households" in which family members were engaged in their lives.
Patient Education, Health Observances, American Heart Association, Disease Management
On May 17, 2022
About 191 million individuals are enrolled in health plans that use the Healthcare Effectiveness Data and Information Set (HEDIS) as their most important tool in evaluating plan quality and clinical performance. HEDIS is administered by the National Committee for Quality Assurance (NCQA), which collects the data and evolves the HEDIS measurement set annually. HEDIS matters, as NCQA plan accreditation is based on HEDIS results combined with Consumer Assessment of Healthcare Providers and Systems...
On May 3, 2022
People taking part in the historic Framingham Heart Study are living longer and with less risk of having a heart attack, stroke or dying from coronary heart disease, according to a new analysis that underscores the power of prevention, screening and treatment efforts. Scientists have known for decades about the risks posed by plaque buildup in the arteries. Coronary heart disease, for example, caused 360,900 deaths in the U.S. in 2019, according to statistics from the American Heart Association.
Healthy Lifestyle, Behavior Change, Health Engagement, American Heart Association, Disease Management
On April 28, 2022
The Request for Proposals process requires advance preparation and top-notch partners Health plans have new opportunities to serve their communities and acquire new members through value-based Managed Care Programs for Medicaid and Medicare plans. As a manager leading this effort or having it impact your business line, your plan can serve these prospective members well. Yet to submit a winning Request for Proposal (RFP), it’s a deadline-driven commitment demanding time, attention, and...
Patient Education, Population Health Management, Health Engagement, Payer/Health Plans, Patient Experience, Care Management, Health Education, Disease Management, Medicare, Medicaid, Member education
On April 20, 2022
2022 wins bring total to 136 awards in last 6 years. Each year, our Krames team looks forward to seeing custom marketing solutions we develop in partnership with our hospital, health system, health plan, and association clients judged against best-in-class marketing and communications programs in the global Hermes Creative Awards. Sponsored by the Association of Marketing and Communication Professionals, it’s one of the largest and oldest creative competitions, drawing more than 6,000 entries...
On April 19, 2022
Keeping on top of COVID-19 and the impact on your health care environment is a never-ending task. With variants of the SARS-CoV-2 virus continuing to threaten both patient health and hospital capacity, we know the importance of providing up-to-date information. The CDC actively monitors all coronavirus variants to make recommendations about the classification of variants (variant of concern, variant of interest, and variants being monitored). Some are considered variants of interest: based on...
Patient Education, Population Health Management, Health Engagement, Healthcare Providers, COVID-19, Patient Experience
On April 5, 2022
For more than two years, COVID-19's direct harm has been visible in overflowing intensive care wards and grim statistics. Now, some of its indirect effects are coming into focus. Studies are linking the pandemic to higher rates of fatal heart disease and stroke, deaths from addiction-related problems and more. The exact causes of these connections are still being determined, experts say, but the effects may be long-lasting.
Population Health Management, Healthy Lifestyle, Behavior Change, Health Engagement, American Heart Association
On April 1, 2022
A new set of recommendations aimed at helping doctors prevent and manage heart failure expand the focus on people at risk or showing early signs of the condition. The latest guidelines from the American Heart Association, American College of Cardiology and Heart Failure Society of America emphasize the importance of optimizing blood pressure and adhering to a healthy lifestyle to prevent the disease, along with new treatment strategies for people already showing symptoms. The recommendations...
Population Health Management, Healthy Lifestyle, Behavior Change, Health Engagement, American Heart Association
On March 30, 2022
Health plans have a new and advanced option for their care management teams coaching high and rising risk members. VirtualHealth, the industry-leading SaaS solution for comprehensive medical management, is partnering with WebMD Provider Services to directly access Krames’ trusted, industry-leading multimedia health information from within VirtualHealth’s HELIOS® platform.
Population Health Management, Health Engagement, Payer/Health Plans, Care Journey, Member Engagement, Care Management, Health Education
On March 22, 2022
Eating a predominantly plant-based diet may substantially slow the rate of cognitive decline in older Black adults in the U.S., according to preliminary research. However, this dietary pattern had less effect on cognitive decline in older white adults, according to the findings presented Friday at the American Heart Association's Epidemiology and Prevention, Lifestyle and Cardiometabolic Health conference in Chicago.
Population Health Management, Healthy Lifestyle, Behavior Change, Health Engagement, American Heart Association
On March 15, 2022
People with bipolar disorder, schizophrenia or schizoaffective disorders may have a higher risk for cardiovascular disease at younger ages than those without a serious mental health condition, according to new research. "Previous research has indicated that people diagnosed with a serious mental illness die 10 to 20 years earlier than the general population, and their leading cause of death is heart disease," Dr. Rebecca C. Rossom said in a news release. She led the study published Wednesday in...
Population Health Management, Healthy Lifestyle, Behavior Change, Health Engagement, American Heart Association
On February 22, 2022
People who follow seven rules for healthy living – such as staying physically active and eating a healthy diet – could offset a high genetic risk for heart disease, according to new research that suggests it could mean as many as 20 extra years of life free of heart disease. The study, published Monday in the American Heart Association journal Circulation, found people with high cumulative genetic risk scores for heart disease could dramatically lower that risk if they adhered to seven...
Patient Education, Population Health Management, Healthy Lifestyle, Behavior Change, Health Engagement, American Heart Association
On February 22, 2022
Brain diseases, including Alzheimer's disease and other forms of dementia, are closely connected to heart health. They are affected by everyday actions and rank among the nation's leading causes of death. That's the portrait of brain health that emerges from the American Heart Association's "Heart Disease and Stroke Statistics – 2022 Update" published Wednesday in the journal Circulation. It's the first time the annual report has dedicated a chapter to brain health.
Patient Education, Healthy Lifestyle, Behavior Change, Health Engagement, American Heart Association
On June 28, 2022
Dedicated to heart health for Blacks and other minorities since 1974 The Association of Black Cardiologists (ABC) was founded to bring special attention to the disparate and often unrecognized impact that cardiovascular disease and stroke have on African-American and other minority communities. A non-profit 501(c)(3) organization, it unites over 2,000 diverse health professionals, lay members of the community, corporate and institutional members in one mission: to promote the prevention and...
Patient Engagement, Healthy Lifestyle, Healthcare Providers, Case study, Health Education
On February 10, 2022
Patient centricity is creating more individualized healthcare based on a patient’s unique medical needs, healthcare preferences, lifestyle, and background.1 The popularity of a patient-first approach is supported by improved patient outcomes, and can lead to a better patient-provider relationship. While most providers today deliver care following the patient-centric model, many still need to shift their marketing strategies to align, incorporating a solid patient perspective and addressing...
Patient Education, Health Engagement, Healthcare Marketing, Case study
On November 30, 2021
The National Pancreas Foundation (NPF) provides hope for those suffering from pancreatitis and pancreatic cancer by funding cutting edge research, advocating for new and better therapies, and providing support and education for patients, caregivers and healthcare professionals. The NPF is the only foundation dedicated to patients who are suffering from all forms of pancreas disease—pediatric pancreatitis, acute pancreatitis, chronic pancreatitis, and pancreatic cancer.
Patient Education, Health Engagement, Healthcare Marketing, Case study
On June 9, 2021
Even in the digital age, there are times when nothing works quite like print. While care managers for a premier managed care provider use Krames On-Demand® to virtually educate and empower their more than 25 million members, they understand print has the power to help reinforce their guidance and reach populations who have less access to or are uncomfortable with digital formats.
Population Health Management, Health Engagement, Payer/Health Plans, Case study
On May 19, 2021
Nationally recognized health system Broward Health has added a new page to its marketing plan—to include a digital edition of its print magazine, Broward Healthy Now. Broward Health—providing world-class health care in South Florida for more than 80 years—began partnering with Krames in 2019 to create and distribute Broward Healthy Now magazine to 50,000 homes quarterly.
Patient Engagement, Healthcare Providers, Patient Acquisition, Healthcare Marketing, Case study
On April 14, 2021
Patients, families, and caregivers want more information about, and collaboration in, care decisions. But achieving good communication among those involved in patient care can be challenging as hospital stays are shorter, medical care is more technologically complex, and resources are constrained.1
Patient Education, Healthcare Providers, Clinical Workflow, Patient Experience, Case study, Care Journey
On February 11, 2021
Life has changed drastically in just a few short months with over 24 million COVID-19 cases in the United States.1 COVID-related concerns have caused 41% of American adults to skip or delay health care.2 They’re putting their family’s health care on hold, too, with 2.5 million fewer doses of routine childhood vaccines administered compared to 2019.3
Patient Engagement, COVID-19, Patient Experience, Healthcare Marketing, Case study
On February 3, 2021
Krames is proud to support the Veterans Administration (VA) in the development and maintenance of the Veterans Health Library (VHL). Attracting more than 680,000 unique visitors per year, the resource was developed under the guidance of the National Center of Health Promotion and Disease Prevention’s Veterans Health Education and Information Program.
Patient Engagement, Patient Education, Consumer Health Library, Healthcare Marketing, Case study
On August 13, 2020
The state of California reported greater than 554,000 confirmed COVID-19 cases1, in the first eight months of the pandemic. For Redlands Community Hospital, a 229-bed not-for-profit, stand alone hospital, located midway between Los Angeles and Palm Springs, two priorities guided their response to the evolving pandemic.
Patient Engagement, Health Engagement, COVID-19, Patient Experience, Healthcare Marketing, Case study, Care Journey
On July 22, 2020
Health care providers are looking to telehealth platforms to see patients and deliver care now much more than ever. In fact, only 25% of patients had used telehealth services prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, but 59% say they’re more likely to use telemedicine than they were previously and 33% would even leave their current physician for a provider who offers it.1 What’s more, the technology could help practices avoid closure as business slows.2
Electronic Health Records, Healthcare Providers, Krames On FHIR, Clinical Workflow, Telehealth, Case study, Care Journey
On December 4, 2019
Guest post from Anna Norton, CEO of DiabetesSisters, a proud Krames partner Krames (formerly known as StayWell) partnered with DiabetesSisters when the nonprofit organization was looking to more simply showcase stories from women living with diabetes. Together, the organizations developed the Between the Lines microsite, which gives women with all types of diabetes a place to go for sisterly support and a comforting sense of community. There, they can find stories like Anna Norton’s below....
Healthy Lifestyle, Health Engagement, Healthcare Providers, Case study, Care Journey
On April 19, 2022
Keeping on top of COVID-19 and the impact on your health care environment is a never-ending task. With variants of the SARS-CoV-2 virus continuing to threaten both patient health and hospital capacity, we know the importance of providing up-to-date information. The CDC actively monitors all coronavirus variants to make recommendations about the classification of variants (variant of concern, variant of interest, and variants being monitored). Some are considered variants of interest: based on...
Patient Education, Population Health Management, Health Engagement, Healthcare Providers, COVID-19, Patient Experience
On January 12, 2022
While COVID-19 vaccines and variants continued to capture health headlines, a number of significant scientific research breakthroughs offered promising news in the fight against heart disease, stroke and cardiovascular risk factors. The American Heart Association, the largest non-governmental funder of heart and stroke related research in the United States, has been compiling an annual list of major advances in heart disease and stroke science since 1996.
Patient Education, Healthy Lifestyle, Health Engagement, COVID-19, American Heart Association
On October 25, 2021
Last modified date: November 29, 2021 Keeping on top of COVID-19 and the impact on your health care environment is a never-ending task. With emerging variants of the SARS-CoV-2 virus continuing to threaten both patient health and hospital capacity, we know the importance of providing up-to-date information.
Patient Education, Healthcare Providers, Payer/Health Plans, COVID-19
On June 30, 2022
If you’re a health system leader aspiring to transform patient interactions into a modern consumer brand experience, today’s a good day. I’m excited to welcome Mercury Healthcare, a world-class healthcare marketing technology company to the WebMD team. Mercury’s impressive suite of solutions provides health systems the ability to analyze, target and precisely communicate to the right patient with the right message all while empowering their clients with transparency, performance data and...
On June 28, 2022
Dedicated to heart health for Blacks and other minorities since 1974 The Association of Black Cardiologists (ABC) was founded to bring special attention to the disparate and often unrecognized impact that cardiovascular disease and stroke have on African-American and other minority communities. A non-profit 501(c)(3) organization, it unites over 2,000 diverse health professionals, lay members of the community, corporate and institutional members in one mission: to promote the prevention and...
Patient Engagement, Healthy Lifestyle, Healthcare Providers, Case study, Health Education
On June 28, 2022
The Association of Black Cardiologists is the premier organization dedicated to one mission: promote the prevention and treatment of cardiovascular disease, including stroke, and to achieve health equity for all through the elimination of health disparities. Since 1974, this non-profit has worked to achieve health equity, advocate for equal access to medical care and technologies, and mentor young physicians of color, particularly Black cardiologists. Learn more about the mission of the...
On June 22, 2022
People who consistently have higher depressive symptoms may be at higher risk for a stroke, according to new research. But stroke risk did not increase in those with decreasing severity of symptoms over time, even if they had high depressive symptoms early on. Past studies show a possible link between depression and the risk of stroke, which occurs when a blood vessel supplying the brain is either blocked by a clot or ruptures. Stroke is a leading cause of long-term disability and death...
Healthy Lifestyle, Behavior Change, Health Engagement, American Heart Association, Disease Management
On June 10, 2022
The Healthcare Effectiveness Data and Information Set (HEDIS) is the most important tool health plans use for measuring clinical performance and plan quality. HEDIS is administered by the National Committee for Quality Assurance (NCQA), which collects the data and evolves the HEDIS measurement set annually. Over 90% of plans, enrolling 191 million Americans, use HEDIS annually to measure their performance.
On June 8, 2022
The rate of pregnancy-related high blood pressure disorders doubled in the U.S. between 2007 and 2019, according to new research that finds 1 in 5 births now results in such a disorder, a preterm delivery or a baby with low birth weight. The study, published Wednesday in the Journal of the American Heart Association, fills in important details about women's heart health during a crucial period of their lives, because those pregnancy complications are linked to a long-term risk of heart disease,...
On May 24, 2022
The importance of social determinants of health My first job as a nurse was in the progressive care unit, often caring for patients with chronic conditions like COPD, CHF, and diabetes. There was much to learn as a new nurse, but it didn’t take me long to recognize repeat patients. They had just been discharged a few weeks or days before in stable condition with a plan for follow-up appointments, new medicines, and dietary changes. On their second admission, it would surface that they didn’t go...
On May 17, 2022
Adults who reported experiencing abuse during childhood could have a higher risk of Type 2 diabetes and high cholesterol, according to new research that found risk varied by gender and race. The new study, published Wednesday in the Journal of the American Heart Association, showed the risk lessened for white women and Black men if they also grew up in "well-organized households" in which family members were engaged in their lives.
Patient Education, Health Observances, American Heart Association, Disease Management
On May 17, 2022
About 191 million individuals are enrolled in health plans that use the Healthcare Effectiveness Data and Information Set (HEDIS) as their most important tool in evaluating plan quality and clinical performance. HEDIS is administered by the National Committee for Quality Assurance (NCQA), which collects the data and evolves the HEDIS measurement set annually. HEDIS matters, as NCQA plan accreditation is based on HEDIS results combined with Consumer Assessment of Healthcare Providers and Systems...
On May 3, 2022
People taking part in the historic Framingham Heart Study are living longer and with less risk of having a heart attack, stroke or dying from coronary heart disease, according to a new analysis that underscores the power of prevention, screening and treatment efforts. Scientists have known for decades about the risks posed by plaque buildup in the arteries. Coronary heart disease, for example, caused 360,900 deaths in the U.S. in 2019, according to statistics from the American Heart Association.
Healthy Lifestyle, Behavior Change, Health Engagement, American Heart Association, Disease Management
On April 28, 2022
The Request for Proposals process requires advance preparation and top-notch partners Health plans have new opportunities to serve their communities and acquire new members through value-based Managed Care Programs for Medicaid and Medicare plans. As a manager leading this effort or having it impact your business line, your plan can serve these prospective members well. Yet to submit a winning Request for Proposal (RFP), it’s a deadline-driven commitment demanding time, attention, and...
Patient Education, Population Health Management, Health Engagement, Payer/Health Plans, Patient Experience, Care Management, Health Education, Disease Management, Medicare, Medicaid, Member education
On April 20, 2022
2022 wins bring total to 136 awards in last 6 years. Each year, our Krames team looks forward to seeing custom marketing solutions we develop in partnership with our hospital, health system, health plan, and association clients judged against best-in-class marketing and communications programs in the global Hermes Creative Awards. Sponsored by the Association of Marketing and Communication Professionals, it’s one of the largest and oldest creative competitions, drawing more than 6,000 entries...
On April 19, 2022
Keeping on top of COVID-19 and the impact on your health care environment is a never-ending task. With variants of the SARS-CoV-2 virus continuing to threaten both patient health and hospital capacity, we know the importance of providing up-to-date information. The CDC actively monitors all coronavirus variants to make recommendations about the classification of variants (variant of concern, variant of interest, and variants being monitored). Some are considered variants of interest: based on...
Patient Education, Population Health Management, Health Engagement, Healthcare Providers, COVID-19, Patient Experience
On April 5, 2022
For more than two years, COVID-19's direct harm has been visible in overflowing intensive care wards and grim statistics. Now, some of its indirect effects are coming into focus. Studies are linking the pandemic to higher rates of fatal heart disease and stroke, deaths from addiction-related problems and more. The exact causes of these connections are still being determined, experts say, but the effects may be long-lasting.
Population Health Management, Healthy Lifestyle, Behavior Change, Health Engagement, American Heart Association
On April 1, 2022
A new set of recommendations aimed at helping doctors prevent and manage heart failure expand the focus on people at risk or showing early signs of the condition. The latest guidelines from the American Heart Association, American College of Cardiology and Heart Failure Society of America emphasize the importance of optimizing blood pressure and adhering to a healthy lifestyle to prevent the disease, along with new treatment strategies for people already showing symptoms. The recommendations...
Population Health Management, Healthy Lifestyle, Behavior Change, Health Engagement, American Heart Association
On March 30, 2022
Health plans have a new and advanced option for their care management teams coaching high and rising risk members. VirtualHealth, the industry-leading SaaS solution for comprehensive medical management, is partnering with WebMD Provider Services to directly access Krames’ trusted, industry-leading multimedia health information from within VirtualHealth’s HELIOS® platform.
Population Health Management, Health Engagement, Payer/Health Plans, Care Journey, Member Engagement, Care Management, Health Education
On March 22, 2022
Eating a predominantly plant-based diet may substantially slow the rate of cognitive decline in older Black adults in the U.S., according to preliminary research. However, this dietary pattern had less effect on cognitive decline in older white adults, according to the findings presented Friday at the American Heart Association's Epidemiology and Prevention, Lifestyle and Cardiometabolic Health conference in Chicago.
Population Health Management, Healthy Lifestyle, Behavior Change, Health Engagement, American Heart Association
On March 15, 2022
People with bipolar disorder, schizophrenia or schizoaffective disorders may have a higher risk for cardiovascular disease at younger ages than those without a serious mental health condition, according to new research. "Previous research has indicated that people diagnosed with a serious mental illness die 10 to 20 years earlier than the general population, and their leading cause of death is heart disease," Dr. Rebecca C. Rossom said in a news release. She led the study published Wednesday in...
Population Health Management, Healthy Lifestyle, Behavior Change, Health Engagement, American Heart Association
On February 22, 2022
People who follow seven rules for healthy living – such as staying physically active and eating a healthy diet – could offset a high genetic risk for heart disease, according to new research that suggests it could mean as many as 20 extra years of life free of heart disease. The study, published Monday in the American Heart Association journal Circulation, found people with high cumulative genetic risk scores for heart disease could dramatically lower that risk if they adhered to seven...
Patient Education, Population Health Management, Healthy Lifestyle, Behavior Change, Health Engagement, American Heart Association
On February 22, 2022
Brain diseases, including Alzheimer's disease and other forms of dementia, are closely connected to heart health. They are affected by everyday actions and rank among the nation's leading causes of death. That's the portrait of brain health that emerges from the American Heart Association's "Heart Disease and Stroke Statistics – 2022 Update" published Wednesday in the journal Circulation. It's the first time the annual report has dedicated a chapter to brain health.
Patient Education, Healthy Lifestyle, Behavior Change, Health Engagement, American Heart Association
