Category: Brandpoint Lifestyle

2025-04-25T18:23:00

(BPT) – At just 30 years old, Gabby weighed 299 pounds and was prediabetic. Due to her weight, she experienced hip and foot pain. She struggled to walk short distances, which made it difficult to keep up with her two young children.

Gabby tried a variety of weight loss methods, without results. She also found out that because of her past health issues, she was ineligible for prescription GLP-1 medications like Wegovy^® or Zepbound^® that have been in the news so much lately.

Fast forward to today: Gabby is now down 145 pounds, and she feels happier and healthier than ever before.

How did she do it? Gabby is one of many patients to attribute her success to the LifeMD Weight Management Program and its breakthrough oral treatment option: Triple Therapy.

“Losing weight has changed my entire life,” she said. “It changed how I look. It changed how I feel. It changed everything about me.”

How LifeMD supports weight management

LifeMD is an online telehealth company that aims to make quality health care as accessible and affordable as possible. It added Triple Therapy to its treatment offerings to serve patients who may not qualify for (or want to use) a GLP-1 medication as part of their weight loss journey. Triple Therapy consists of three oral medications — metformin, bupropion (the generic version of Wellbutrin^®) and topiramate — combined in carefully selected doses to support healthy weight loss.

People on Triple Therapy start by taking three pills daily — with no needles, alcohol wipes or additional supplies needed. The treatment is generally less costly than prescription GLP-1 medication, making it an attractive option for patients on a budget.

Dr. Anthony Puopolo, President, LifeMD Affiliated P.C.s, helped develop Triple Therapy to give patients more avenues for success. He noted that GLP-1 medications are not suitable for patients with a history of pancreatitis, medullary thyroid cancer and/or gallstones. They also aren’t ideal for certain patients with serious GI issues, although those patients’ eligibility is decided on a case-by-case basis.

“GLP-1s are great for patients who qualify, but not everyone does,” Puopolo said. “If you need to slim down, Triple Therapy is another incredible treatment option. It provides a clear and viable path to sustainable weight management.”

How Triple Therapy makes a difference

Gabby said Triple Therapy helped her stop obsessing about food — an affliction commonly known as “food noise.” She said it also made it easier for her to practice portion control. In her first month on treatment, she lost 10 pounds without making major changes to her diet. She began adjusting her eating habits, and the weight continued to come off.

After having had several disheartening experiences with past doctors, Gabby was encouraged by the support she received from her LifeMD care team. She said that Puopolo, who was her prescribing physician, was both compassionate and communicative. She and her doctor had virtual check-ins about once a month, and Gabby would send her care team messages any time she had a question or concern.

“There were people who said I couldn’t [lose weight] and didn’t believe in me, but the people at LifeMD did,” Gabby said. “They’re willing to work for you and fight for you.”

Having that support, and Triple Therapy, made all the difference in the world for her. As more and more pounds came off, Gabby found she no longer needed to buy plus-size clothing. She began feeling more energized and light on her feet. For the first time ever, Gabby didn’t need an afternoon nap to make it through the day — and best yet, she could now keep up with her young kids.

When Gabby lost 100 pounds, she made good on a promise to herself: She started running. On Thanksgiving Day of 2024, she ran her first 5K. She now jogs about three to four times a week.

“My hips don’t hurt. My feet don’t hurt. I can move,” she said. “I went from being barely able to walk to being able to run a 5K.”

Creating a healthier future

In addition to losing 145 pounds, Gabby is no longer prediabetic, and continues to see her health improve. Now she feels more confident, and realizes that her worth is not tied to the number on the scale.

Grateful for her newfound health, Gabby is paying it forward. Since starting her weight loss journey, she has become a health coach, drawing from her personal experience to inspire others. She hopes other people will see her story and give LifeMD a try. She lets people know that if GLP-1s aren’t a viable treatment option, they may qualify for Triple Therapy.

“This is the best decision I’ve ever made,” Gabby said about joining LifeMD’s Weight Management Program. “It feels really good to lose this much weight, especially because I never thought I could.”

Learn more about LifeMD and Triple Therapy here.

Disclaimer: Results not typical. Out of a population of 150 LifeMD patients, on average, patients on Triple Therapy lost 7 pounds within the first three months of treatment.

2025-04-24T12:01:00

(BPT) – Between constant demands of work, family obligations and the millions of things on your to-do list, it’s easy to feel like you’re at or beyond capacity. The result? You may feel fatigued, disconnected — or like you just can’t keep it all together. This is where biohacking comes in: making changes to your environment, lifestyle and nutrition that directly impact how well your body — and most importantly, your brain — functions.

Here are simple, positive steps from the experts at Solaray, the #1 vitamin and mineral brand in health food stores^, to help you clear out the mental cobwebs and support your cognitive health and memory for the long haul.

Disconnect to reconnect

When you’re in the car picking up kids, waiting in a checkout line or riding an elevator, take a couple of slow, deep breaths. Deep breathing brings more oxygen to the brain, calming the mind and nervous system, which also helps reduce stress.

Replace 5-10 minutes of phone scrolling each day with an enjoyable activity that engages your brain and focuses your mind, like reading a book, playing memory games, crafting, doing a puzzle or cooking.

Reduce your sitting time. Being active is known to help improve brain function, as movement gets oxygen-carrying blood circulating throughout your body and brain. Walk the dog, dance, or practice yoga outside.

Use the power of heat and cold therapy. There’s a reason saunas and cold showers are so popular: Drastic temperature changes cause physiological responses connected to physical healing, reducing inflammation and chronic pain, plus aiding in athletic recovery. Hydrotherapy is connected to boosting your mood and relieving anxiety, and many credit cold plunges with improving creativity and mental clarity.

Feed your brain longevity-boosting foods

You’ve probably heard of “brain food,” but can it really help? Some foods have been shown to support brain health, such as berries, green leafy veggies, walnuts and fatty fish like salmon. Other foods research connects to improving brain health, cognitive function and memory include broccoli, oranges, coffee, green tea, turmeric, pumpkin seeds, eggs and dark chocolate.

Each of these foods provides various nutrients your brain needs for optimal functioning and longevity, from vitamins B, C and K and minerals such as zinc, magnesium, copper and iron, to nutrients like choline, lutein, folate, beta carotene, omega-3 fatty acids, flavonoids, polyphenols, caffeine, anthocyanins and other antioxidants.

Leverage smart supplementation

Consider an innovative new herbal supplement that can help support your memory and cognitive function. SharpMind Memory™ from Solaray contains 600 milligrams of Cognivia^®, a unique sage blend observed to support several critical aspects of memory.*

The supplement is an expert mushroom and herbal blend crafted to support cognitive health at every age, including your working memory and overall cognitive function.* Its proprietary mix of garden sage leaf extract and Spanish sage essential oil has been clinically studied for several aspects of memory and is an award-winning ingredient.*†

It also includes two potent adaptogens — 100 milligrams of gotu kola and 50 milligrams of fermented organic, U.S.-grown chaga mushroom — for additional support. The fermentation process aids in nutrient absorption, while chaga grown on gluten-free organic oats is high in beneficial beta-glucans. SharpMind Memory offers fast-acting, powerful cognitive support in just two convenient capsules per day.*

“The right nootropic supplements can help maintain balance between the activation and relaxation of our nervous system,” said Max Willis, chief innovation officer for Solaray. “Solaray’s trusted SharpMind Memory nootropic formula is anchored by science-backed Cognivia^®, which is well-studied for supporting working memory, recall and retention. We’re thrilled it was named the best ‘supplement for the mind’ in the 2025 NEXTY Awards.”

Try a “brain dump”

Let it all out by trying a “brain dump” to capture all the to-dos taking space in your mind. On paper or using voice recording on your phone, list items that need to get done in the next few days. One advantage of doing this at night is that it can help you relax and get to sleep more easily, without those items buzzing through your mind. Getting a good night’s sleep can also help bolster your cognitive health and memory.

Invest in wearable technology

Use a wearable health tracker to monitor your heart rate, physical activity, sleep and other vital signs, which can help you make proactive decisions about your lifestyle and activities. They may give you actionable insights that encourage you to try new approaches to your health and well-being.

You may also want to try a smartwatch that can help you stay calm throughout your busy day. They can remind you to stand up and go on a quick walk, take a deep breath for a meditation moment to give you a mental health pause and slow your nervous system down.

Using these tips can help you start feeling like you have more mental storage. By bolstering your memory and brain health, you’ll be able to make the most of every day, for many years to come.

Find SharpMind Memory and other supplements to help support your well-being at Solaray.com.

^ SPINS Brand Share, NPI Vitamins & Minerals, wk end 2/23/2025

*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

†Cognivia^® is a registered trademark of Nexira; it was a NIE New Ingredient Awards winner in 2021 and has been a finalist in the Nutra Ingredients Awards.

2025-04-24T09:41:00

(BPT) – Insects and snails are a critical part of the planet’s ecosystem. Bees, for example, pollinate important crops and provide high-quality food like honey, while snails feed on dead or rotting organic matter in the soil to speed up recycling of plant nutrients. This makes collecting and studying these fascinating creatures a rewarding hobby. But for U.S. agriculture and the environment, live insect and snail collection is serious business.

Certain insects and snails, from beetles to moths and flies, are not native to the U.S. and pose serious risks to our nation’s agriculture, ecosystems and public health if they escape into the wild. To protect our natural treasures from invasive species and comply with federal and state laws, it’s crucial to follow specific guidelines when collecting and caring for these animals.

Harmless pets or damaging invasive species?

Invasive insects and snails can cause devastating economic and environmental damage. Without their natural predators and diseases, these species can multiply quickly, outcompeting native species and destroying crops or habitats.

The giant African snail is a favorite in the pet trade and a damaging invasive species capable of destroying over 500 types of plants and vegetables, such as lettuce, cucumbers, fruit and beans. It reproduces prolifically and can even eat tree bark, ornamental plants, as well as the stucco off your walls! Perhaps most alarming is that the giant African snail can carry parasites harmful to humans and animals. That’s why it is illegal to own, sell or import them into the U.S.

Similarly, collecting or owning the Asian longhorned beetle (ALB) — or other invasive beetles — is illegal in the United States. ALB feeds on and kills maple and other hardwood trees, which cannot recover from the damage. As a live insect, this species will never be legal to keep for education purposes, or even as a pet. However, there are safe and legal ways to collect certain native insects and snails in the U.S.

Tips for collecting insects and snails

• Do your research: Consult with the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) to learn which species require a permit and which are banned from the U.S. because of their potential to do harm. Many states also have restrictions on certain species, so check with your state’s Department of Agriculture before acquiring these pets.

• Work with reputable vendors: Only purchase insects and snails from sellers who have a PPQ 526 Plant Pest Permit from APHIS. It’s illegal to move or import live snails or insects across state lines without the 526 permit. Even if a seller says the species is legal, it’s the buyer’s responsibility to know.

• Remember: By sourcing an insect and snail collection responsibly, anyone can both enjoy an interesting hobby and help to protect America’s food sources and landscape.

Safeguard the environment and ecosystems

It’s important to not only consider how you collect live insects and snails, but also to carefully manage how you dispose of them. Never release live insects or snails into the wild — it’s both illegal and harmful to the environment.

If for any reason you cannot keep your collection and need to relocate or euthanize your collection of live insects or snails, there are safe methods. If you don’t feel comfortable doing this, please call your local plant health contacts to transfer them to Federal agricultural officials.

For additional guidance on purchasing and caring for live insects and snails, call the USDA at (866) 524-5421 or contact Pest.Permits@usda.gov. For more information on invasive species and how to prevent their spread, visit HungryPests.com.

This article is brought to you by USDA.

2025-04-23T00:01:00

(BPT) – Choosing the right materials and incorporating well-planned design features can enhance the appearance of your landscape while reducing the effort needed for maintenance.

“Adding mulched areas around shrubs, plants and trees, as well as creating access pathways, are key design elements we use to enhance the beauty of a landscape,” says Lavonne Thompson, owner of Gabby’s Gardens in St. Croix Falls, Wisconsin.

Many materials can help keep your landscape looking beautiful, such as mulch, landscape rock, flagstone steppers, concrete pavers and natural stone. To create and maintain a professional look for your landscaped areas, Thompson recommends these elements:

• Create distinctive borders for garden beds, tree rings and other landscaped areas using natural stone, concrete pavers or edging. It will make it easier to mow around plus add definition, texture and color.
• Construct paths using natural stone steppers, concrete pavers, mulch or landscape rock. Not only do these materials create visual interest and define walkways, but they also improve accessibility.
• Use mulch, landscape rock or gravel to give landscaped areas a finished look. “Mulch adds interest and gives a clean, finished appearance that enhances curb appeal,” says Thompson.

Maintenance of mulched areas can be a challenge with thunderstorms, critters, traffic and falling leaves. To keep landscaped areas looking beautiful and minimize seasonal maintenance, Thompson uses NorthRock^® Landscape Loc Mulch & Rock Bond, an environmentally friendly compound that can be applied to keep mulch and landscape rock locked in place.

Landscape Loc helps to prevent mulch movement from rain, wind, critters, mowers and blowers, while allowing the treated area to freely drain and breathe. It is safe for soil, groundwater, wildlife, people, pets and plants.

“Landscape Loc is a great product for when we are refreshing clients’ projects in the spring,” says Thompson. “It is essential in sloped areas and gardens to prevent mulch from moving out of place.”

Landscape Loc can be used on landscape rocks that are 1/2″ or smaller. It can also be used to control dust from gravel, sand, pebbles and light rock on walkways and driveways as well as to control erosion around those areas. The more porous the rock, the better Landscape Loc will bond. For denser rock, a heavier application is required.

Using a fan tip sprayer, apply Landscape Loc when refreshing and cleaning up landscape areas. It lays down white and dries clear, enhancing the look of mulch and other ground cover. Landscape Loc is available at Amazon and local retailers in one- and five-gallon containers or as a concentrate to mix with water. Watch an application of Landscape Loc Concentrate at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zOdssqFrQVY.

“It’s great that Landscape Loc goes down white before drying clear,” says Thompson. “That way if you are called away for a moment, you can pick right up where you left off.”

2025-04-21T16:59:00

(BPT) – Festival season is so back, and of course we’re scrolling through every single OOTD video. (Seriously, every. Single. One.) Consensus? This year’s looks are already on another level and the style trends are, simply put, 11/10. No notes. The only thing better than an epic fashion moment is to recreate it in a mini version. We put together nine festival-inspired looks for your future festival lovers and trendsetters.

Here’s how the designers from Carter’s^® house of brands would style your mini me in some of this year’s favorite vibes, including neon, indie, desert and palm springs.

Neon Vibes

1. Festival season and neon goes hand in hand, and this bright pink number understood the assignment. This Carter’s^® set matched back with a Carter’s^® iridescent butterfly bag … can you even?!

2. For your little dude, Carter’s^® paired this absolutely iconic ’90s-esque mesh muscle tank with acid wash denim shorts. It’s classic main stage to its core.

Indie-Inspired

3. She’s indie, she’s cool, she’s giving “in my boho era.” Between the stunning blue hue and bandana-reminiscent details, we’re fully obsessed with this Carter’s print tank.

4. The ’90s never looked so good, and this Carter’s multi-hued masterpiece is built to stand the test of your wild child. A win-win in anyone’s book.

5. An OshKosh midi dress for your indie girl and a Carter’s pair of boots to let her inner cowgirl shine. Done and done.

Desert Explorer

6. Beat the desert heat with this OshKosh tropical set for your little adventure man. Pull-on short, easy-on button down — he’s ready to hit the festival scene … in about 25 years.

7. You can call her desert princess. Muted shades, tonal stripes, eyelet detailing — this OshKosh B’gosh^® dress is the epitome of desert chic. Finish the look with this adorable Carter’s straw backpack we all wish came in adult size.

Palm Springs

8. We’re giving you two outfits in one here, because choosing between this striped OshKosh summer knit tank and vibey tropical-print style would be like choosing a favorite child. Whichever you pick (both is the obvious choice), complete the look with a pair of iconic OshKosh denim, like these eyelet-trim shorts in cream.

9. Fun prints for your festival ‘fit? Yes, please. This classic (toddler-tested!) Carter’s button down and pull-on short set is giving biiiiig desert explorer vibes — and the gators are the cherry on top.

2025-04-21T11:45:00

(BPT) – Teacher Appreciation Week (May 5–9) and National Nurses Week (May 6–12) are dedicated times to recognize the vital contributions of teachers and nurses in our communities. From the classrooms to the front lines of healthcare, these professionals show up every day with unwavering commitment — educating, caring for, and supporting those who rely on them most.

Whether you’re a parent, patient, colleague or friend, here are four heartfelt ways to say thank you to the teachers and nurses who make a difference in our lives:

Celebrate in the Workplace with Catered Meals

A thoughtful meal can go a long way in showing gratitude. Consider coordinating a catered lunch at school or the hospital to bring the team together and provide a well-deserved break. Noodles & Company makes it easy with craveable catering options that please every palate. With a refreshed menu featuring globally inspired dishes and premium ingredients — like roasted red peppers, pickled onions and rich sauces designed to pair perfectly with their noodle shapes — every dish is crafted with care.

Whether they’re craving something comforting, spicy or veggie-packed, Noodles & Company delivers flavor in every bite. Plus, until May 12, 2025, enjoy 15% off catering orders of $150 or more — a simple way to make a big impact for the teachers and nurses in your life.

Provide A Little Rest & Relaxation

After long days spent giving their all, many nurses and teachers could use a little R&R. Wellness-inspired gifts like spa gift cards or DIY self-care kits (filled with teas, candles and cozy socks) make thoughtful gestures. Personalize them with items they love — like their favorite snacks or a custom mug — to make it even more meaningful. These small acts of care go a long way in showing how much their work is appreciated.

Surprise Video Messages

Sometimes, the most powerful thank-you is a simple “you made a difference.” Organize video messages from former students, patients, families or colleagues expressing what a specific teacher or nurse meant to them. Stitch them together into a short montage and share it privately or during a group gathering. With their permission, these videos can also be posted to social media or shared school-wide, giving the community a chance to join in the recognition.

Stock Them Up on Essentials: Gift Cards & Supplies

Gift cards are a thoughtful, flexible way to show appreciation — and they can help ease everyday expenses. Teachers often dip into their own pockets for classroom supplies, making cards to places like Amazon, Staples or Michaels especially meaningful. Nurses (and teachers, too!) will also appreciate gift cards to their favorite coffee shop, bookstore or go-to spot for a comforting meal — like Noodles & Company. As a bonus, from May 5 through June 30, guests will receive a $10 bonus card for every $50 spent on gift cards at Noodles.

Gratitude is powerful — and during Teacher Appreciation Week and National Nurses Week, it’s the perfect time to show it. Whether it’s a catered lunch, a handwritten note or a simple moment of recognition, go out of your way to make the teachers and nurses in your life feel celebrated. Because they deserve it.

2025-04-21T08:31:00

(BPT) – Graduation season is here, and if you’re a soon-to-be or recent grad, job hunting is likely at the top of your to-do list. Will you land a role quickly? Will it pay enough to cover rent and student loans? Will you actually like it, or will you end up just taking whatever comes your way?

Monster’s 2025 State of the Graduate Report surveyed 1,000 graduates to see how they’re feeling about entering the workforce. Here’s what they’re thinking, what they’re looking for, and what they’re saying “no thanks” to.

Confidence in the job search, but with realistic expectations

Even with a shaky economy and fast-changing technology, most (83%) college grads are optimistic about landing a job after graduation. But they’re also realistic about the timeline. Over a third expect their job search to take four to six months.

To improve their chances at landing a job, many grads are getting more flexible than in previous years with what they’re willing to accept. Monster Economist Giacomo Santangelo explains how stress around the current state of the economy is impacting graduates’ approach to job searching: “This anxiety is prompting 42% of graduates who do not already have a full-time job to broaden their company and industry options — up 8 percentage points from last year — while maintaining firm boundaries against employers with salary freezes or recent layoffs,” he says. “Companies must demonstrate financial stability and workplace flexibility to attract these cautious yet determined candidates who are strategically navigating uncertain market conditions.”

What matters most: Pay, flexibility, and career growth

Today’s grads know what they want in a job, and what they won’t settle for. Salary is still the biggest deal-breaker, but it’s not just about the paycheck. Despite worries about the economy, more than a third of graduates still expect higher starting salaries, likely due to inflation and student debt concerns.

Graduates are flipping what was once considered typical in workplaces, with more than half seeing the traditional 9-to-5 schedule and 5-day work week as outdated. Furthermore, 42% say they wouldn’t even consider a job without remote or hybrid work options. Monster Career Expert Vicki Salemi explains: “This perspective is understandable, as these grads began college in the fall of 2021, a time when remote and hybrid internships and work experiences were the norm, and in-person jobs were no longer the default.”

Employers who don’t adapt to these new expectations, or offer some flexibility, may have a tough time attracting top talent.

The impact of AI on jobs

For the newest generation entering the workforce, AI is quickly becoming a go-to tool for job-hunting. Most (82%) new grads report using AI to craft resumes, write emails, or prepare for interviews. But while AI is making the job search easier, many are also nervous about its long-term impact: 64% worry that it could replace human jobs, a growing concern compared to previous years.

According to Santangelo, companies that can show how human skills work alongside AI — not in competition with it — will be more successful in attracting talent.

Values and workplace culture: A dealbreaker for many

In this shifting job market, employers aren’t the only ones evaluating candidates. Graduates are carefully vetting companies, too. Beyond a salary that meets their expectations, they’re looking for workplaces that reflect their values, prioritize well-being, and create an environment where they can thrive.

Political beliefs are playing a big role in job decisions, with 71% of graduates saying they would not work for a company that openly supports a political topic, issue or candidate they oppose. Diversity is also important, with more than a third saying they would turn down a job if the company lacks diverse leadership.

Additionally, work-life balance and mental health support are just as crucial, with more than half of graduates reporting they wouldn’t accept a job that doesn’t support a healthy balance between work and personal life. For companies hoping to attract young talent, fostering an inclusive and supportive workplace isn’t just a nice-to-have, it’s a must.

Looking ahead

The class of 2025 is redefining the workplace, advocating for fair pay, flexibility, and meaningful career growth. For employers looking to appeal to young professionals, understanding these shifting priorities will be essential in attracting and retaining the next generation of professionals.

For graduates looking to navigate the job market effectively, having a polished resume can make all the difference. Monster.com, in partnership with TopResume, offers a free resume assessment and professional resume services to help job seekers stand out in a competitive market. Whether you need a detailed review or a complete rewrite, these expert services can highlight your skills and experience in a way that catches employers’ attention.

Beyond perfecting your resume, figuring out your next career move can feel overwhelming — but Monster has you covered there, too. The Graduation Center is a go-to resource for recent grads, offering everything from job search tips and interview advice to salary insights and career path guidance. Whether you’re exploring different industries, prepping for your first big interview, or learning how to negotiate a job offer, this hub is designed to help you start strong. Ready to put your best foot forward as you enter the workforce? Check out Monster.com to get started.

2025-04-18T08:13:00

(BPT) – Managing household finances can be challenging, especially for middle-income families juggling daily expenses, savings goals and unexpected costs. The latest data from the Household Budget Index™ (HBI™) report, which is a monthly economic snapshot measuring the impact of inflation on middle-income households alongside their earned income, reflects these challenges. The most recent index shows that purchasing power for middle-income families fell in February, ending a trend upwards. Rising costs for necessities like gasoline, auto insurance and utilities are behind this slide.

Overall, average purchasing power remains higher than it was a year ago and still shows significant improvement from 2022 lows. However, the latest Financial Security Monitor™ survey reveals that 62% of middle-income Americans say they are stressed about money and finances. Though their dollars are stretching further than they were a year ago, economic uncertainty continues to weigh on their minds.

More financial flexibility

Rising purchasing power means families have more breathing room in their budgets than they did a year ago. But with fluctuations in the cost of necessities like gas, auto insurance, groceries and utilities, a financial cushion is needed to build long-term stability and security. For example, when purchasing power is up, families can use this flexibility to contribute more to emergency funds, ensuring they are better prepared for unexpected medical expenses or home repairs.

Looking ahead

Looking ahead this year, prioritizing financial well-being is more important than ever. By staying informed and making smart money moves, middle-income families can turn future purchasing power gains into lasting financial security. To keep track of these trends, the Household Budget Index™ data remains a valuable tool for understanding where purchasing power stands and how families could continue to make the most of their money.

Ultimately, the latest dip in purchasing power serves as a reminder that having a financial game plan remains crucial. Families who take proactive steps today — whether through budgeting, saving or seeking expert advice — will be in a stronger position to weather economic changes and could work to build a more secure financial future. With careful planning, middle-income households can take advantage of upcoming developments to achieve greater financial stability and long-term success.

The information contained herein is for information purposes only. The Household Budget Index™ (HBI™) report is derived from data believed to be reliable, but we cannot warrant its accuracy or completeness. Such information is subject to change and is not intended to influence investment decisions nor constitute investment advice. PRIMERICA and the Primerica Logo are trademarks of Primerica, Inc., registered in the U.S. and Canada. Household Budget Index™, HBI™ and the HBI Logo are trademarks of Primerica, Inc. All rights are reserved.

2025-04-17T10:01:00

(BPT) – For millions of Americans with Medicare Part B coverage, virtual healthcare offers a convenient alternative to traditional in-person visits.

While Medicare provides essential coverage for those over 65 or living with chronic conditions or disabilities, many patients aren’t aware that virtual healthcare is often fully covered by Medicare. Whether you’re managing a busy schedule, prefer to avoid waiting rooms, or are among the approximately 5.8 million Americans facing access barriers — including the nearly 21% of adults 65 and older with mobility challenges — virtual healthcare makes getting treatment significantly easier.

Virtual healthcare brings medical expertise directly into patients’ homes. This approach eliminates travel time and transportation concerns while making it simpler to stay on top of prescriptions, follow-ups, and routine care. For many Medicare beneficiaries, connecting with a doctor online is more efficient than in-person visits — and because Medicare Part B now covers many telehealth services, virtual care has become a convenient, accessible option from the comfort of home.

For example, PlushCare, a comprehensive virtual health platform available in all 50 states, connects Medicare Part B members with board-certified primary care physicians and therapists.

Here are some advantages of using a virtual care platform to help you manage your health care needs.

• Eliminate transportation challenges — For those who live far from medical facilities or have mobility limitations, virtual care removes the need to arrange transportation for routine appointments or urgent needs that can be handled remotely.
• Access same-day appointments — Virtual platforms significantly reduce wait times typically associated with in-person visits. PlushCare offers same-day appointments, often connecting patients with physicians in as little as 15 minutes. Patients can also request or refill prescriptions during these visits, with medications sent directly to their local pharmacy for quick and convenient pickup.
• Build relationships with consistent providers — Telehealth platforms provide care in a variety of ways. Some platforms offer visits connecting the patient with the first available physician, and other models, such as PlushCare, allow patients to select the physician they would like to see and schedule follow-ups with the same physician if desired.

“Virtual care accelerates access to quality healthcare, empowering patients to take a more proactive approach to their health,” explains Dr. Leo Vieira, medical director at PlushCare. “For Medicare beneficiaries facing mobility challenges, virtual care provides consistent, timely access — particularly valuable for patients in remote or underserved areas.”

For Medicare Part B members seeking preventive care, chronic condition management, prescription services or urgent care consultations, virtual platforms offer a convenient alternative to traditional office visits — with applicable services covered by Medicare.

Learn more about virtual healthcare options for Medicare beneficiaries at PlushCare.com/medicare.

2025-04-17T08:01:00

(BPT) – What is it like for millions of American families managing food allergies? To better understand these experiences, Genentech, a member of the Roche Group, and the Novartis Pharmaceuticals Corporation partnered with The Harris Poll to survey U.S. parents and guardians of children with food allergies. Explore the findings in this infographic to uncover the impact of food allergies and how increased awareness, education, and support can help affected families. If you or your child have food allergies, schedule an appointment with an allergist to discuss your options.