Category: Brandpoint

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.

2025-04-16T16:01:01

(BPT) – Whether it’s a backyard gathering, a park picnic or a casual evening on the patio, spring and summer offer countless opportunities to entertain in the fresh air.

Bezel, the newest addition to the Cakebread Cellars family, brings over 50 years of hospitality and winemaking expertise to California’s Central Coast. Rooted in Cakebread’s legacy of warmth, community and connection, Bezel offers fruit-forward wines crafted to elevate everyday gatherings with ease.

To help you bring that spirit to life every day, winemaker Jane Dunkley shares her favorite entertaining tips to make every gathering feel extra special.

1. Set the scene at any location

When people think about outdoor hosting, many turn to their backyard. However, don’t feel limited to your personal space. There are plenty of other underestimated, public options that can help to elevate your event.

For example, you can also look for green spaces. A nearby residential park acts as a central and accessible setting for your get-together, and state and national parks where you like to hike or a nearby beach can serve as great options for hosting.

Leaning into the natural beauty of these settings adds an effortless sense of celebration. Whether it’s the sound of waves, a view of the sunset or trees in bloom, the surroundings help set the tone.

2. Elevate the ambiance with easy add-ons

Once you’ve picked your location, it’s time to think about how to create a charming setting. The good news is you don’t have to break the bank to accomplish this. All you need are some intentional decorations, many of which you can bring to life yourself.

DIY decor can go a long way in making an outdoor area feel festive. Think of including seasonal touches on the table, like citrus fruits in a bowl, linen tablecloths or napkins and spring herbs on the serving plate.

Outside of these elements, you can also consider locations that offer some form of ambient lighting. For example, hosting around a fire is a great way to add warmth, and some beaches and parks even provide fire pits or rings for public use. If this isn’t available, lanterns are a great portable option that provide a similar effect, and can be lit with candles, batteries or string lights that are easy to pack.

3. Make beverage service effortless

Create a simple beverage setup where your guests can help themselves. This will encourage mingling and give you more time to enjoy the moment.

Dunkley recommends including a range of food-friendly wines that complement a variety of dishes and preferences. Bezel’s lineup of well-balanced wines is a great option for this, offering a simple yet thoughtful enhancement to any occasion at an approachable price, whether it’s a weeknight dinner, a casual get-together or a moment to unwind at the end of the day.

To round out the station, consider adding jugs of plain and fruit-infused water alongside the selection of wines.

4. Let the pairings lead the way

When curating a menu, consider finger foods and main dishes that can be enjoyed al fresco. Dunkley also encourages embracing unexpected pairings to enhance the experience and give yourself and your guests the freedom to experiment and find pairings that best fit their palate. So, while you may have heard that summer is for white wines, you don’t have to strictly follow this.

For example, chilled red wines like Bezel’s Pinot Noir excellently complement summer barbecue staples like steak and ribs. However, you can also go against the grain by serving this red with grilled salmon.

Of course, it’s always great to offer traditional warm-weather white wines like Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc and experiment with other unconventional pairings with chips and French dip or sweet and sour pork, which are a few of Dunkley’s favorite options.

No matter what you choose, remember that the best wine pairing is the wine that tastes best to you. There’s no pressure, and to find these and other suggested wine pairings, visit BezelWines.com.

Whether you’re a veteran or novice host, these tips can help you take your outdoor entertaining to the next level.

Please drink responsibly. To learn more, please visit Responsibility.org.

2025-04-16T07:01:00

(BPT) – Across American households, spare change often sits idle — coins tucked away in jars, drawers or even old wallets. As the conversation around halting penny production in the United States proliferates, many consumers are left wondering if the humble penny has lost its value. The truth is, even if new pennies are no longer minted, every cent already in circulation continues to hold its worth. In fact, there are several smart and simple ways to put your pennies to good use that not only benefit your wallet but also support the community and the environment.

Understanding the value of the penny

For years, pennies have sparked debates over their cost-effectiveness and practicality. Yet, while the U.S. Mint could stop producing new pennies, the billions already in circulation remain an important part of everyday transactions. It’s estimated that American households are sitting on $7.7 billion in spare change, proving that every coin counts in our economy. This existing inventory supports not just individual spending but also vital systems of financial inclusion, especially for those who prefer and depend on cash.

Here are a few tips on how to unlock the hidden potential of your spare change:

Recycle to conserve natural resources. One of the simplest and most impactful ways to use your pennies is to recycle them. Recycling coins minimizes the need for additional raw materials, thereby reducing the environmental footprint associated with minting new coins. This eco-friendly approach not only helps the environment but also cuts down on the energy and material costs associated with mining and manufacturing.

Donate to charity. Donating pennies to charity is another excellent way to put your spare change to good use. Many charitable organizations appreciate coin donations, which can support a variety of causes, including food banks and community projects. For instance, Coinstar collected 14.2 billion pennies in 2024, many of which were donated to charities. Last year alone, consumers donated over $1.4 million to charities by recycling their coins through Coinstar. This means that even the smallest coins can combine to make a meaningful impact on those in need.

Support currency recirculation. Keeping coins in circulation is essential to reducing the demand for new minting, which in turn conserves resources and supports financial efficiency. Services like Coinstar are vital in this process. Its network not only helps recycle coins but also transforms them into spendable cash or digital funds. Coinstar’s existing infrastructure can support many times over the current U.S. Mint production, with over 18,000 kiosks across all 50 states, making cash and coins readily available for everyday transactions. With 50 million annual transactions, Coinstar is ensuring that coins can remain a dynamic part of our economy.

Support small businesses. Many local and cash-only businesses still depend on physical currency for everyday transactions. By spending your cash wisely — be it for a coffee or a small treat — you not only enjoy a little indulgence but also support local commerce. More than 90% of consumers intend to continue using cash as a means of payment or store of value in the future, highlighting the ongoing relevance of even the smallest denominations.

Digitize your coins. As our economy embraces digital solutions, Coinstar, through various partner relationships, provides access to services that can digitize physical cash and coin, such as loading to a prepaid account, transferring cash to a bank account, and purchasing cryptocurrency and stablecoins. Digitizing your spare change can help streamline finances and integrate seamlessly into modern banking and payment systems, ensuring that your pennies remain as versatile as ever.

Although new penny production may stop, this does not mean that you must stop using your pennies. The billions of pennies in existence today continue to have value that can still be used. Re-circulating coin puts spendable cash in all Americans’ hands, in support of the consumer and our economy. So next time you find a jar full of spare change, remember that those pennies still have the power to support sustainability, empower your community, and contribute to your financial well-being.

2025-04-16T13:01:00

(BPT) – From the geysers of Yellowstone to the granite cliffs of Yosemite, America’s national parks remain a premier destination for outdoor exploration. For many travelers, visiting national parks is a bucket list ambition. In fact, one in four Americans aspire to visit every national park in their lifetime, according to a recent online survey conducted in January 2025.*

With warmer weather on the horizon and outdoor enthusiasts gearing up for the season — especially around moments like National Park Week, happening April 19-27 — now is the ideal time to start planning a national park adventure.

Before hitting the trail, OFF!^® Mosquito and Tick Repellents has partnered with the National Park Foundation to share six tips to help make any national park experience worry-free and more memorable, so you can focus on the adventure.

1. Reserve entry passes and campsites early

Many parks have moved to a reservation-based system to manage crowds. Book timed entry passes, campsites and guided tours well in advance. Highly visited parks like Arches, Glacier and Rocky Mountain often sell out weeks ahead.

2. Plan for unexpected weather and layer up

Weather can be hard to plan around. Temps can drop fast — especially at higher altitudes — and unexpected showers can change hiking plans instantly. Come prepared with extra clothing — like a lightweight jacket, waterproof gear and long sleeves — in case the weather changes. If camping, consider extra layers for chilly nights.

3. Don’t let mosquitoes and ticks ruin the experience

With Mother Nature comes the presence of biting insects, like mosquitoes and ticks. Check the OFF!Cast Mosquito Forecast to see mosquito activity in the area up to seven days in advance. Bring a long-lasting mosquito and tick repellent, like OFF!^® Deep Woods, to help prevent bites and ensure the outdoors are enjoyed uninterrupted.

4. Pack high-protein snacks and water

The summer heat can drain you, especially in Southwestern parks like the Grand Canyon. Pack a large water bottle (two liters or more) and hydrate frequently. For longer hikes, consider packing a filtration water bottle or straw. Save room in your backpack for high-protein snacks to keep you energized.

5. The early bird catches the worm

For the most peaceful experience, arrive before sunrise. You’ll beat the crowds and get a front-row seat at a beautiful sunrise.

6. See them all

Why stop at one? Visiting every national park may feel like a dream, but with planning, it’s achievable. Make a plan by searching for national parks based on a location, activity or topic and get one step closer to adventure.

*Online survey conducted by The Harris Poll on behalf of OFF!^® Mosquito and Tick Repellents in the United States between January 16-21, 2025, among a nationally representative sample of 3,051 adults above the age of 18.

2025-04-16T07:01:00

(BPT) – Whether it’s served hot or iced, sweetened or black, coffee remains one of the most popular beverages in the United States — and the world. According to Drive Research, 73% of Americans enjoy coffee daily, and a whopping 93% consume it at least once per week. But the cost of this favorite drink keeps increasing, putting the rapidly growing $130 billion coffee industry at risk as global warming could reduce available viable land for coffee cultivation up to 50% by 2050. Coffee consumption has skyrocketed 60% over the last 30 years, resulting in significant environmental damage in coffee-growing regions, including deforestation, increased water usage and extensive pesticide use.

Due to extreme weather, logistical hurdles, workforce shortages, and increasing demand driving up coffee costs, the need for long-term solutions to improve coffee cultivation has never been more pressing. One groundbreaking biotech company, Pluri (Nasdaq: PLUR), is answering the call by pioneering cell-based coffee production through its subsidiary, Coffeesai.

Coffeesai uses advanced 3D cell technology to produce authentic ground coffee in a lab using a patented, scalable cell cultivation production system — without the constraints involved with traditional coffee farming. This innovative process mimics nature without exploiting it, ensuring consistent quality and high yields while using minimal resources.

Cell-based coffee production directly addresses some key factors behind coffee price volatility:

Supply chain resilience: Bio-farming removes reliance on weather-sensitive crops, mitigating climate-related disruptions.

Higher efficiency: The bio-farming system is designed to scale up production by generating the equivalent of 80,000 coffee plants in just three weeks, using only plant leaves.

Sustainability and cost reduction: This method slashes water usage by 98%, addressing a major driver of coffee production costs and its environmental impact.

While coffee production challenges persist, world demand for coffee is expected to triple by 2050. The cell-based production method minimizes the environmental impact of coffee production, as current production methods have a high carbon footprint, and upcoming regulations are expected to further strain producers.

“Cell technology can make farming and food cultivation more productive and sustainable for the future, starting with transforming coffee production,” said Pluri CEO and president Yaky Yanay. “Our advanced agtech solutions have the potential to reduce the environmental footprint of traditional agricultural production, overcoming the biggest challenges posed by climate change.”

The future of coffee

By using cutting-edge cellular agriculture technology to produce cell-based real coffee, Coffeesai delivers the perfect cup without depleting the planet’s resources. Coffeesai’s cell-based coffee is:

• Pesticide and contaminant free
• Consistently perfect in flavor profile
• Available year-round, independent of harvest seasons
• Scalable to meet commercial needs

Coffeesai can also produce customized products like naturally decaffeinated coffee.

This process improves the supply chain, helps protect the environment and makes pricing more predictable by decreasing labor costs and the production footprint, while helping reduce deforestation, pesticide usage and agricultural waste. Bio-farming also reduces the carbon emissions related to farming, transportation and roasting.

“It’s not just a cup of coffee: Coffeesai is a commitment to innovation, sustainability and the joy of a perfectly brewed cup,” added Yanay.

Whether you’re a coffee lover or eco-advocate, Coffeesai offers an unmatched, sustainable coffee experience without compromising on taste — or harming the planet.

Learn how Pluri and Coffeesai are pushing the boundaries of science and engineering to create cell-based products for commercial use, pioneering a biotech revolution that promotes global well-being and sustainability, at Pluri-Biotech.com/landing-pages/coffee.