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Making your health plan work for you: Five ways to simplify your healthcare experience

2025-03-31T09:11:00

(BPT) – In today’s fast-paced world, consumers are more motivated than ever to choose healthcare options that offer a better experience, higher quality of care, and greater value. According to a recent survey by McKinsey, 58% of U.S. consumers prioritize their personal health and wellness more now than a year ago. Yet, despite high levels of engagement in health and wellness activities, many consumers are not satisfied with their overall healthcare experiences. Here are five ways to maximize your health plan.

1. Get the most of your mental health benefits

You might be surprised to learn that your health insurance plan includes mental health benefits, which may cover employee assistance programs, virtual therapy sessions, virtual behavioral coaching, or digital self-help tools such as Calm Health. These options make it easy to access the support you need in different ways. If you have mild behavioral health concerns, digital self-help tools and virtual behavioral coaching may be a great place to begin. If you have any questions or need more details, simply call the number on your insurance card for assistance.

2. Use resources that help you shop for care

Price transparency has long been an issue in American health care. Prices often vary by hundreds or thousands of dollars for the same services within the same city, and up until recently, consumers had virtually no way to know that. Without an easy way to look up the price of a procedure or surgery, people may choose a provider based on factors other than price and overall value.

To help members compare care options and costs more easily, some modernized health plans, like Surest from UnitedHealthcare, offer members the information they need to shop for care.

Unlike traditional plans, Surest eliminates deductibles and coinsurance. Instead, members pay only a copay, which may vary depending on the service and provider they choose. All providers in the network are evaluated based on historical performance data, including criteria like effectiveness and cost-efficiency. Those that performed better are deemed higher value. Members can use the Surest website or app to see available care options, network providers and the cost of the service or procedure they need, with lower copays for higher-value care providers. Ultimately, this means Surest members may save money when they choose care providers who have historically delivered effective, cost-efficient care.

3. Simplify your journey before a medical procedure

Preparing for a medical procedure can feel overwhelming. That’s why some health plans are doing some of the homework for you by proactively supporting you through some of the most common knee procedures. For example, with select UnitedHealthcare plans, members receive alerts as soon as 24 hours of prior authorization approval to access details about their upcoming procedure, questions to ask their doctor, and cost estimates. This support helps members feel more informed and confident about their upcoming procedure.

4. Personalize how you search for providers

Consumers are increasingly researching providers before making an appointment. According to recent data, 44% of patients research providers before scheduling a visit, and on average, they look at two to three providers before making a choice. This highlights the growing trend of consumers taking a more active role in their healthcare decisions. To make this process easier, UnitedHealthcare’s side-by-side provider comparison tool lets you compare providers based on your preferences, such as language spoken or patient reviews. These enhancements help you find the right care, schedule appointments online, and understand potential costs for services they provide, making the provider search process more efficient and tailored to your needs.

5. Access expert guidance at your fingertips

Navigating your health plan can feel complex, but you don’t have to do it alone. Insurance companies are emphasizing the role of advocates who may help consumers navigate their health plans, resolve issues, and maximize their benefits. According to a survey by Deloitte, 70% of consumers who used a healthcare advocate reported higher satisfaction with their healthcare experience. UnitedHealthcare’s Advocacy program connects members with specially trained advocates who may help with a wide range of personalized needs—including clinical care, behavioral health, pharmacy, special needs, healthcare costs, and medical plan benefits—to help members understand their coverage and make more informed healthcare decisions.

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Winter Blues for Your Skin: How Seasonal Changes Impact Eczema

2025-03-31T07:11:00

(BPT) – As the temperature drops, many people with eczema may notice that their symptoms flare up or worsen. If you’re struggling with dry, cracked, irritated skin and constant discomfort during the colder months — or just find yourself more aware of your skin’s condition this time of year — it might be time to talk to a dermatology professional about eczema and potential management options for you.

Atopic dermatitis, a chronic skin condition, is the most common type of eczema, affecting approximately 9.6 million children and 16.5 million adults in the United States. The disease appears as a red, intensely itchy rash that can occur anywhere on the body.

Eczema symptoms and severity may rapidly change or vary based on geographic location and environment. The shift to winter brings cold, dry air, harsh winds, and indoor heating that can further strip moisture from the skin, triggering flare-ups.

A resident of Idaho, 17-year-old high-school student Scottie is no stranger to cold winters. He also knows firsthand what it’s like living with eczema; in fact, he’s been struggling with the disease for as long as he can remember.

“My symptoms first started as young as 7 years old, with what I would describe as an intensely itchy rash,” Scottie recalls. “For me, my eczema would flare up the worst around my elbows. My skin would become so dry and itchy, creating what looked like cracks in my skin,” said Scottie. “Despite applying multiple moisturizers or steroid treatments, nothing seemed to work.”

Seeking a new path to relief, Scottie participated in a clinical trial for ZORYVE® (roflumilast) cream 0.15%, a once-daily, steroid-free topical treatment approved for individuals with mild to moderate eczema ages 6 years and up.

“As someone who has struggled with understanding their eczema, I am passionate about sharing my experiences and helping others in the community. So, when my mom discovered a clinical trial for a new steroid-free treatment option, I decided I would give it a try,” he explains. “I know everyone is different, but for me, I noticed my skin was less itchy within days of applying the cream. I also found my skin to be clearer by the end of the study in just 4 weeks.”

In clinical trials of over 1,300 people with eczema including over 880 people using ZORYVE cream 0.15%, and approximately 450 people who used a vehicle (a cream without the active drug), 31% of people using ZORYVE cream had Clear or Almost Clear skin* at 4 weeks, compared to 14% of people using the inactive cream. In addition, ZORYVE cream was also shown to improve itch in 32% of 542 people using ZORYVE cream compared to 17% of 271 people using the inactive cream.

The most common side effects of ZORYVE include headache, nausea, application site pain, diarrhea, and vomiting.

Prior to discovering this new treatment option, Scottie’s condition was always at the forefront of his mind.

“Often I was embarrassed for how my skin looked, finding ways to hide my condition under long-sleeve clothes,” said Scottie. “Since starting treatment and being able to better manage my condition, I have found a new sense of confidence and relief of not having to worry about my everyday habits.”

If you’re struggling with atopic dermatitis or any other skin concerns this winter, make an appointment with a dermatologist who will work with you to find the care you need.

*People who had Clear or Almost Clear skin and a 2-point improvement on a 5-point severity scale.

Approved Use

ZORYVE cream 0.15% is a prescription medicine used on the skin (topical) to treat mild to moderate eczema (atopic dermatitis) in people 6 years of age and older.

It is not known if ZORYVE cream 0.15% is safe and effective in children with mild to moderate eczema (atopic dermatitis) under 6 years of age.

IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION

ZORYVE is for use on the skin (topical only). Do not use ZORYVE in or on your eyes, mouth, or vagina. Do not use ZORYVE if you have certain liver problems.

Before using ZORYVE, tell your healthcare provider about all of your medical conditions, including if you:

  • have liver problems.
  • are pregnant or plan to become pregnant. It is not known if ZORYVE will harm your unborn baby.
  • are breastfeeding or plan to breastfeed. It is not known if ZORYVE passes into your breast milk. Talk to your healthcare provider about the best way to feed your baby during treatment with ZORYVE. Breastfeeding women using ZORYVE should use it on the smallest area of the skin and for the shortest time needed. Do not apply ZORYVE directly to the nipple or areola to avoid contact with your baby.

Tell your healthcare provider about the medicines you take, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements.

The most common side effects of ZORYVE cream 0.15% include:

  • headache
  • nausea
  • application site pain
  • diarrhea
  • vomiting

These are not all of the possible side effects of ZORYVE. Call your healthcare provider for medical advice about side effects. You are encouraged to report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Please see Patient Information for ZORYVE.

© 2025 Arcutis Biotherapeutics, Inc. All rights reserved.
US-CRP-151-00027 1/25

Photo courtesy of Scottie, an actual patient who has taken ZORYVE and is being compensated for his time contributing to this article.

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5 ways the national debt impacts average people

2025-03-31T07:01:00

(BPT) – The total national debt has surpassed $36 trillion, according to the U.S. Department of the Treasury. That number is so big, it’s hard to get your mind around it. How much is 36 trillion? One way to think of it: It’s the value of the economies of Germany, the United Kingdom, India, China and Japan, combined. Another way: If you stacked $36 trillion in hundred-dollar bills, that stack would be more than 24,000 miles high.

But what does this debt load mean for average Americans? How might it affect people’s lives? Here are five ways the debt can impact your life directly from the Bipartisan Policy Center.

What is national debt?

The national debt is the result of the federal government spending more than it takes in — and borrowing money to cover the gap. Historically, the country’s debt has grown during events when expanded government capacity is required, including wartime response, pandemics like COVID-19, or economic downturns like the Great Recession. But it has also grown because lawmakers have not restored fiscal balance when the economy is strong. And similar to our own individual credit card balances, as the national debt grows, so does the cost of that borrowing through higher interest payments. Today, the interest alone on the debt costs taxpayers $3 billion per day.

What does it matter to the average person? Here are five ways national debt can impact your daily life.

1. Housing

Rising national debt may impact your ability to afford a home mortgage. How? As the cost of borrowing rises for the federal government, mortgage rates may remain elevated as well. Also impacted: the costs of homebuilding, including supplies and materials. So, the growing national debt means it might cost people more to get a mortgage for an existing home or the financing to build a new one.

2. Health care

The U.S. spends more on health care than anything else, according to the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS). Between 2023 and 2032, the CMS projects costs to rise from $4.8 trillion to $7.7 trillion, due to an aging population, rising prices for drugs and other health services, advances in costly medical treatments, and more. Right now, the CMS reports health care spending is 17.6% of the country’s economic output, or gross domestic product (GDP) in 2023. It is projected to reach 20% by 2032, outpacing the growth in the economy.

A growing national debt may require tough choices. It may undermine government investment in public health services and infrastructure, research and development for treatments, infectious disease response and private health insurance options for workers.

3. Child care

The growing national debt may exacerbate inflation, which could affect government funding of child care providers, the value of tax incentives that support caregivers and childcare providers and other government-funded supports to help people pay for childcare.

Working parents know that access to affordable childcare directly affects their ability to work, so when affordable childcare is weakened, so is a parent’s ability to make a living.

4. National security

In 2024, the Council on Foreign Relations reported the federal government spent more on interest payments to service the national debt than it did to support the entirety of the U.S. national defense system.

The national debt has been singled out by lawmakers as the “greatest threat” to national security. As the largest category of discretionary spending, national defense is especially exposed to budget pressures, creating tensions between its ability to meet challenges in a fast-changing security landscape and the need to cut costs.

5. U.S. economic leadership

The U.S. dollar’s power and standing in global finance and trade is underpinned by high faith in U.S. creditworthiness. As the national debt grows, that confidence can be shaken. It could have an impact on the U.S. credit rating and the dollar’s strength, undermining global economic competitiveness. What does that mean for you? Things like imported goods could get more expensive, and the dollar may not go as far when you’re traveling.

To read more about how the national debt impacts you, visit https://bipartisanpolicy.org/fiscal/.

The Bipartisan Policy Center and its advocacy affiliate, Bipartisan Policy Center Action (BPC Action), are unique in their approach to addressing the nation’s most pressing issues. As the only organization working across the full political spectrum on domestic issues, BPC brings together diverse perspectives to craft data-driven, pragmatic policy solutions. BPC Action then works directly with legislators and other policymakers to turn those solutions into real change.

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Work, school and more: Everything you need to succeed

2025-03-30T23:01:00

(BPT) – Sponsored by OfficeDepot OfficeMax

Life moves fast, and no matter where you are on your journey — whether you’re a student, a parent, an educator, or an entrepreneur — one thing is certain: You need the right tools to succeed. But let’s face it, your time is precious. Who has hours to spare running from store to store, hunting for supplies and services?

Here’s the good news: You don’t have to. Office Depot® OfficeMax® has everything you need, all in one place. From the first day of kindergarten to the moment you land your dream job — and every milestone in between — Office Depot OfficeMax is your trusted partner, ready to equip you with the essentials to thrive. Whether it’s backpacks and notebooks for school, cutting-edge tech for your home office, or business supplies to fuel your entrepreneurial dreams, they’ve got you covered.

Why waste time searching when success is just a click or visit away? Head to an Office Depot or OfficeMax store or shop OfficeDepot.com to find everything you need to conquer your goals, every step of the way.

Students, parents and educators

Did you know Office Depot OfficeMax provides useful educational supplies for every stage, from K-12 through college? You can easily find all the supplies required for educational success throughout your academic career, from K-12 essentials like pens, notebooks and backpacks to college prep.

Office Depot OfficeMax also supports homeschool educators through their wide assortment of products and services, providing them with access to the tools needed to create a successful learning environment. Plus, they carry trusted brands that teachers rely on, like JanSport, Crayola, Ticonderoga, EXPO and more, making it easy to find quality supplies for every classroom need.

Office Depot OfficeMax is also launching a program with Classroom Ready featuring the Dynamic Math Book, which covers a complete year of math. Written by teachers, it includes examples and hundreds of practice questions, is aligned to state standards for learning and assessment, and offers an easy-to-follow structure for students of all abilities, parents and teachers. With clear and concise explanations, guided examples and step-by-step solutions, this resource is designed to support effective learning for everyone.

Office Depot OfficeMax has even got you covered for dorm room setup items such as desk accessories, organizational products and technology essentials like networking equipment, computers, headphones, speakers, keyboards and mice.

For printing needs, Office Depot OfficeMax offers an array of affordable printers such as Canon for compact, wireless printing, and HP for fast, high-quality output. Whether you’re looking for items for yourself, your child or your classroom, you can find everything you need to support academic success in this one-stop shop.

Small business owners

Are you an entrepreneur or business owner looking for office supplies? Office Depot OfficeMax has everything you’ll need, including filing supplies like folders and banker boxes, office essentials such as Easel Pads, Post-it® Notes and Pens; popular software for managing taxes like H&R Block, ergonomic chairs and desks for a comfortable and productive work environment; along with cleaning supplies and breakroom essentials, such as Keurig coffee makers, beverages and soft drinks, to keep your team energized. When it comes to printer needs, Office Depot OfficeMax carries the most popular brands on the market, including Brother for fast and efficient monochrome printing and HP LaserJet printers for high-volume printing. You’ll also find shredding, copying and printing services, plus mailing solutions to meet all your business needs.

Remote workers

If you need to furnish your professional home office, Office Depot OfficeMax has got your back. You can find stylish and functional office furniture, such as height adjustable desks and comfortable ergonomic chairs, tech accessories such as Logitech mice and keyboards, headsets, HP monitors, and Anker power banks for an efficient workday. As for printer needs, Office Depot OfficeMax offers a selection of printers perfect for home office use, including Epson and Brother. Office Depot OfficeMax also carries a wide variety of fashionable notebooks, pens and handy organizational tools to help you create a productive, inspiring workspace at home. Add a personalized touch to your space with a custom Canvas Wall art or custom photo prints to complete your workspace.

Celebrate your team, friends and family

You may know that Office Depot OfficeMax has all kinds of paper, envelopes, pens and other office essentials, but did you know it’s also a great source for finding terrific last-minute gifts, Hallmark cards and celebration supplies? Don’t let another birthday, anniversary or work accomplishment go unrecognized — you’ll find everything you need to make your friends, family members, employees or colleagues feel special. For a truly special touch, you can leverage the Office Depot OfficeMax print services to make your celebration pop with products such as custom banners, posters and yard signs.

Services you need

From marketing to mailing, sales demos or school presentations, you’ll soon discover that Office Depot OfficeMax can help you get it all done — quickly and conveniently.

  • Print Services: Services include custom signage, same-day poster boards, shredding services, custom photo gifts and mailing solutions to meet your personal and professional needs. Get started today.
  • Free 20-Minute In-Store and Curbside Pickup: Customers can take advantage of an industry-leading in-store and curbside pickup service at Office Depot and OfficeMax stores with the company’s 20-minute pickup promise. Qualifying orders placed online at OfficeDepot.com can be picked up in-store or curbside in just 20 minutes or customers will receive a coupon to get $20 off their next qualifying purchase. For additional details visit OfficeDepot.com/pickup.
  • Furniture Assembly: Let us help you put it all together! Just give us a call! 866-388-4350 Mon-Fri: 9am-6pm EST.
  • Instant Discounts for Rewards Members: Office Depot® OfficeMax® Rewards Program members can get instant discounts on hundreds of items at Office Depot and OfficeMax stores nationwide with exclusive Rewards member pricing on furniture, cleaning supplies, storage and more. Signing up to become a member is fast and free.
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Visit OfficeDepot.com to find everything you need at every step of your life journey, whenever you need it.

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Beware of imposter scams: How to stay safe

2025-03-28T06:01:00

(BPT) – Imposter scams are at an all-time high. These scammers may call, text or email an individual to convince them that the caller is someone in authority to commit identity theft, get people to send money or share personal information. Here are do’s and don’ts to best protect yourself.

Infographic

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4 ways to save money all year round

2025-03-28T14:01:00

(BPT) – So, you’ve filed your taxes and are waiting for your refund. Now what?

“Tax season is a great time for families to reevaluate their finances,” said Jeannette Kaplun, founder and chief executive officer of Hispana Global. “It can be a chance to plug any holes in your budget as well as make the most of your tax refund.”

If you want to save on more than just your tax return this year, check out Kaplun’s four pro tips that can help you save without sacrificing quality.

1. Uncover spending leaks

Do you know where your money is going? You likely already know your fixed expenses like your rent or mortgage payment, car loans and utilities, and probably most of your variable expenses like groceries. However, there may be leaks in your budget.

For example, don’t overlook small daily purchases. A daily $5 latte quickly adds up to a yearly expense of $1,825. That doesn’t mean you have to give up on coffee completely, but consider making coffee at home most days and limiting your lattes to a couple of times a week.

For parents, another seemingly small expense that adds up over time is your kids’ phone use.

“Make sure your kids aren’t racking up too many in-app purchases on their phones,” said Kaplun. “Have your parental controls turned on so you can see what your kids are doing and how much they’re spending.”

2. Switch providers

You’ve probably heard about how you can save on car insurance by comparing rates and switching. You can apply the same principle to other expenses, too, like your internet service.

Just because you’ve been with your internet service provider for a long time doesn’t mean you’re getting the best deal. Shop around and see what competitors are offering.

For example, you could consider switching to NOW Internet by Xfinity. NOW Internet is a pay-as-you-go service, with no annual contracts and no credit checks that starts at just $30 a month, with all-in pricing and equipment included. Best of all, there’s no hassle. You can order your equipment online and have it shipped to your home or pick up your box at your local Xfinity store.

Bonus: Your internet service provider may offer deals on other services like mobile. For example, you can sign up for NOW Mobile and pay just $55 a month when you get both NOW Internet and NOW Mobile, with no annual contracts or hidden fees. NOW Mobile is available for NOW Internet and Xfinity Internet customers.

3. Review your subscriptions

It’s easy to rack up subscriptions. Whether it’s digital streaming platforms, a gym membership or a monthly food box, you’d be surprised how many you have and how many you don’t use.

“Reviewing your online and offline subscriptions and removing those you no longer use can save you hundreds of dollars a year,” said Kaplun.

4. Look for deals and bundles

Now that you’ve reviewed your subscriptions and canceled those you don’t use, take a careful look at the ones you want to keep. You may be able to get better deals or bundle subscriptions to save money.

If you subscribe to platforms like Apple TV+, Netflix and Peacock, consider switching to NOW StreamSaver. NOW StreamSaver bundles Apple TV+, Netflix with ads, and Peacock Premium for the low monthly subscription of $30 a month with no contracts or additional fees. NOW StreamSaver also delivers over 125 streaming channels, so you always have something to watch.

NOW also offers NOW TV and NOW TV Latino, which offer over 125 streaming channels, including A&E, AMC, Discovery, HGTV, MGM+, TLC, Cinelatino, WAPA América and more. Plus, you get Peacock Premium for no additional cost. To learn more, visit Xfinity.com/NOW.

Make the most of your dollars

You can still enjoy the things you love while saving money. Using these four expert tips, you can make the most of your tax season financial review and save money all year long.

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Hot take: 3 reasons cheesecake is not just for dessert anymore

2025-03-28T10:41:00

(BPT) – Cheesecake is having a moment — and it’s not just after a celebratory steak dinner in a fancy restaurant. That’s right, you can have cheesecake anytime morning, noon or night. Feeling peckish before lunch? Use Krusteaz Cheesecake Muffin Mix to whip up a mid-morning snack to tide yourself over. Or maybe it’s an afternoon pick-me-up you need? Cheesecake is here for that, too. In fact, research shows that 80% of consumers like or even love cheesecake.

Here’s how to capitalize on this sweet trend and incorporate the creamy, rich goodness of cheesecake into your life more often:

1. Cheesecake is simple to make — why limit it to dessert?

Classic cheesecake is made of three ingredients: cream cheese, sugar and eggs. Everything else is optional. You can buy a ready-made crust or crush graham crackers with brown sugar and butter, if you’ve got those on hand. A spring-form cheesecake pan is ideal, but you can make do by lining a regular pan with overhanging parchment paper so you can lift your cheesecake out after you bake it. For a fresh take, you can substitute ricotta for cream cheese or crushed cookie crumbs for graham crackers.

To bake or not to bake? It’s the age-old cheesecake question. No-bakes get their texture from gelatins or puddings and are lighter and fluffier than regular cheesecake. But if it’s a denser texture and fuller flavor you’re craving, then baked cheesecake is the way to go.

2. Cheesecake plays well with seasonal fruits and berries.

Spring brings fresh strawberries, which may be your cheesecake’s best friend — sliced, diced, folded into whipped cream — the possibilities are endless. Summer’s blueberries, blackberries and cherries invite makers to create glorious trifles. Just layer fruit, bite-sized pieces of angel food cake and a mixture of cream cheese, sour cream, whipped cream and powdered sugar, plus a little vanilla or almond extract. Apples, pears and figs come to fruition in the fall. Whether you slice them fresh or make a warm fruit compote with sugar and honey, your cheesecake will pair nicely with these autumn fruits. Winter is the time to add grapefruit, kiwis and pears to your cheesecake toppings portfolio.

3. Cheesecake is versatile enough to fit every craving!

Oh the joys of this delicious, all-purpose treat! Cheesecake can be decadent or light, depending on the recipe and your palate. It can come in any size — from balls to bites to full-on towering slices. Wait, what if the cheesecake were the filling? Krusteaz has created a cheesecake-filled muffin mix that combines the sweet and tangy cheesecake flavor with the soft, fluffy muffin texture Krusteaz consumers have come to love. The muffin base has warm notes of vanilla, cinnamon and honey to mimic the flavor profile of a traditional cheesecake crust. Simply add water, oil and eggs. For an even richer filling, add in an extra four ounces of cream cheese.

So treat yourself to cheesecake whenever you crave it! And check out featured recipes straight from the Krusteaz Kitchen, so you can have your cheesecake and eat it, too!

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4 fabulous reasons to eat more fish this spring

2025-03-27T11:05:00

(BPT) – March is National Nutrition Month, the perfect time to review your diet and eating habits so you can make informed decisions about your food choices. As you take stock of your fridge, consider adding one important staple to your weekly meal plans: fish.

Fish is an excellent source of protein and other nutrients that support your whole health. Read on to discover the top four reasons to incorporate more fish into your diet.

1. Excellent source of protein

If you want to add an alternative source of protein to your meals, fish is an excellent option.

“As a registered dietitian, I always emphasize the importance of incorporating nutrient-dense protein into a balanced diet, and seafood is a great option,” said Mia Syn, M.S., R.D.

How much protein a serving of fish offers depends on the type of fish. For example, a 5-ounce serving of Morey’s Fine Fish & Seafood Wild Salmon Seasoned Grill provides 27 grams of protein, while a 5-ounce serving of Morey’s Tilapia Sweet Chili has 23 grams of protein.

“The Dietary Guidelines for Americans recommends enjoying seafood at least twice a week,” said Syn. “Just pair it with veggies and fiber-rich carbohydrates, and you’ll have a delicious, complete meal.”

2. Supports a balanced lifestyle

If you want to have a more balanced lifestyle, eating fish is a good place to start. Incorporating fish into your diet is a great way to take care of your heart, brain and bones, and can even improve your mental health. For those wanting to get more active, fish should be your preferred fuel. The lean protein will fill you up without weighing you down before or during your workout.

3. Versatile freezer staple

There are so many types of fish and so many ways to prepare them. Whether you grill, bake, air fry or poach it, fish’s versatility makes it an invaluable and convenient freezer staple.

For your next Taco Tuesday, pick up Morey’s Blackened Salmon with Mike’s Hot Honey. In no time, you’ll have a tasty taco filling that is the perfect blend of sweet and heat.

If you’re in the mood for a salad, cook up a filet of Morey’s Wild Flounder Garlic & Herb to top it. The garlic, rosemary, oregano, basil and parsley marinade pairs well with just about any leafy greens you like.

4. Easy to make

Even if you’re not a chef, you can make fantastic fish meals with little effort. Fish is incredibly easy to make, so you can create a delicious lunch or dinner without any culinary knowledge.

To save time and create a restaurant-quality meal at home, check out your local grocery aisle for Morey’s frozen fish. They’re tasty, easy-to-make options that the whole family can enjoy.

“Keeping Morey’s in your freezer means you’ll always have a quick, tasty and nutritious protein option on hand,” said Syn. “Their pre-marinated products make it easy to meet your twice-weekly fish goal.”

Whether you’re looking for an easy Lent-friendly dinner for the next Fish Friday or just an anytime treat, follow Syn’s simple and delicious five-ingredient salmon sushi bowl recipe.

5-ingredient Air-Fryer Salmon Sushi Bowl

Prep time: 10 minutes; Cook time: 10 minutes; Serves: 2

Ingredients:

1 box of Morey’s Wild Salmon Seasoned Grill, thawed

1 medium avocado, diced

1 cup cucumber, chopped

2 cups cooked rice

2-4 tablespoons spicy mayo

Optional topping: green onion, sesame seeds

Directions:

1. Preheat air fryer to 370 F.

2. Remove the filets from the pouch and cut into cubes.

3. Place the salmon in a single layer, not touching, with flat side down in the air fryer. Air fry for 10-11 minutes.

4. Meanwhile, cook the rice according to package instructions.

5. Divide rice between two bowls, then top each with salmon, cucumber and avocado. Add spicy mayo and garnish with green onion and sesame seeds, if using.

Fill up on a filet of fish

These are just a few of the many reasons why you should eat fish this month and beyond. To learn more about Morey’s fish products, discover more recipes and find a store near you, visit Moreys.com.

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Hop to it! Tips for Effortless Easter Hosting

2025-03-27T09:45:00

(BPT) – Celebrating with family is all about spending time together, enjoying each other’s company and making the most of the season. To make your Easter gathering even more memorable, add your own personal touches that celebrate the occasion and the season.

Fortunately, creating memorable Easter moments doesn’t have to be stressful, even with a busy schedule. With a little preparation, you’ll be able to entertain with ease and enjoy the company of loved ones thanks to these tips and recipes.

Make it colorful

Springtime is all about renewal, rebirth — and color! Bring vibrant hues to your celebration through your table settings, centerpiece, décor and even your food. Opt for bright or pastel solid color tablecloths and napkins, which make a bolder statement than busy patterns. Consider a simple vase of seasonal fresh cut flowers or decorated Easter eggs to brighten your table.

Bring the fun

Keep the Easter celebration lively with a variety of activities. Set up an egg-decorating station with chilled hard-boiled eggs, dyes and tools guests will need to make their own. Add a cookie-decorating station, too, with egg- and bunny-shaped sugar cookies, offering frosting and sprinkles for an easy and delicious activity.

Keep it simple

Make your meal easier this year with versatile Bob Evans side dishes and farm fresh breakfast products. Saving time on cooking and cleanup lets you focus on enjoying quality time with family and friends. Mix and match these delicious sides, or incorporate them into your favorite Easter recipes. And the best part? They’re ready in minutes.

Need a little recipe inspiration? Here are some ideas to get you started.

Bob Evans Mashed Potato Muffins

These cheesy, savory muffins are quick to make and full of flavor, a perfect addition to any meal. Hosting a large gathering? Grab an extra muffin pan and double the recipe.

Prep time: 15 minutes; Cook time: 30 minutes; Total: 45 minutes; Servings: 6

Ingredients:

1 (24-ounce) package Bob Evans Original Mashed Potatoes

3 large eggs, lightly beaten

1 cup finely chopped broccoli

1 cup shredded Cheddar cheese

1/2 teaspoon dried thyme

1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F.

2. Stir together all ingredients; season with salt and pepper, if desired.

3. Spoon mixture into each well of a greased 12-cup muffin pan.

4. Bake 30-35 minutes or until golden brown.

Bob Evans Rosemary Sausage Balls

Packed with the bold flavor of rosemary, this dish adds a fresh, flavorful twist to your Easter spread. Serve as a side or main, and this recipe is sure to be a hit with everyone at the table.

Prep time: 25 minutes; Cook time: 30 minutes; Total: 55 minutes; Servings: 8

Ingredients

3/4 cup onion, finely chopped

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 pound Bob Evans Original Roll Pork Sausage

6 ounces cornbread stuffing mix

8 ounces mozzarella cheese, shredded

1/2 cup ricotta cheese

1/4 cup parmesan cheese, grated

1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, minced

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F.

2. Cook onion and garlic in hot oil in a large skillet over medium heat until onion is tender. Spoon into a large bowl; let cool 10 minutes.

3. Add uncooked sausage, stuffing mix, mozzarella, ricotta, Parmesan and rosemary. Season with salt and pepper, if desired.

4. Shape mixture into 2-inch meatballs and place on a lightly greased rimmed baking sheet. Bake 20 minutes or until golden brown.

Bob Evans Spinach-Pesto Macaroni & Cheese Bites

A fun spin on a classic, these macaroni and cheese bites are the perfect combination of cheesy and crispy. Whether you’re serving them as an appetizer or side, these little bites pack big flavor.

Prep time: 40 minutes; Cook time: 20 minutes; Total: 60 minutes; Servings: 14

Ingredients

20 ounces Bob Evans Macaroni & Cheese

5 ounces baby spinach

2 tablespoons pesto

2 large eggs, divided

2 17.3-ounce boxes frozen puff pastry, thawed

Instructions

1. Heat macaroni and cheese according to package directions; spoon into a large bowl.

2. Gradually add spinach, stirring until wilted.

3. Stir in pesto and 1 egg.

4. Cover and refrigerate 30 minutes.

5. Meanwhile, preheat oven to 375°F.

6. Unfold pastry sheets and roll each into a 14- x 12-inch rectangle on a lightly floured surface. Cut each pastry into 2-inch squares.

7. Spoon about 1 tablespoon macaroni and cheese mixture into centers of half of squares.

8. Lightly beat remaining egg in a small bowl; brush beaten egg around edges of filled squares. Top each with a plain pastry square, crimping edges with a fork to seal.

9. Place filled pastries on parchment paper-lined baking sheets. Bake 15-20 minutes or until golden brown. Serve warm or at room temperature. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley, if desired.

Pro tip: Make ahead by freezing filled pastries on baking sheets, then store in zip-top freezer bags up to 1 month. Let thaw before baking according to directions.

Don’t let guests go home empty-handed

Consider preparing extra servings of your dishes so your guests have leftovers to take home. For many, leftovers are a way to keep holiday family memories top of mind and extend the enjoyment of the holiday.

Find these recipes and more at BobEvansGrocery.com/recipes — and find products that make your mealtimes easier at BobEvansGrocery.com.

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A More Convenient Way to Get Screened for Colon Cancer

2025-03-27T00:01:00

(BPT) – Guardant Health

Did you know colorectal cancer (CRC) is one of the most treatable forms of cancer when it’s caught in its early stages, yet one in three American adults are not up to date with recommended screening? This means more than 50 million Americans age 45 and older may miss the chance to catch CRC early, when survival rates are as high as 91%. Instead, they may not know they have CRC until it’s in late stages, when the chance of survival can plummet to 16%.

Studies show that people at average risk for colon cancer often avoid screening because they think traditional screening options, such as colonoscopies and stool-based tests, are unpleasant or inconvenient. But alternative options, like a simple blood test, may help more people get screened.

Like many Americans, Elissa Brown, a 61-year-old college counseling advisor, was facing this problem. After a loved one was diagnosed with colon cancer, Brown learned firsthand how critical it is to stay up to date with screenings but still had concerns about traditional options being inconvenient or unpleasant.

“I knew how important it is to get checked for colon cancer, but seeing the impact of the disease reinforced how critical screening truly is for everyone,” said Brown. “That’s why I prioritized talking to my doctor about screening and learning about the different options available.”

At her next OB-GYN appointment, Brown asked about CRC screening. While she had used a stool-based test previously, this visit taught her about an alternate approach — Shield, a new blood test that offered a more pleasant screening option for people age 45 and older and at average risk for colon cancer. The test only required a simple blood draw during a routine doctor visit.

Brown decided Shield was the best option for her. She was also confident that she was using a screening method recommended by her OB-GYN’s practice and backed by study results published in the New England Journal of Medicine.

After a quick blood draw, Brown received her results about two weeks later, giving her the peace of mind of knowing she not only had a negative result but was also up to date with her screening for colon cancer.

“I was nervous about getting screened for colon cancer, but Shield helped eliminate those fears,” she said. “The best part is the test didn’t require any preparation or downtime — just a quick blood draw — which is important to me because my life is very busy.”

The Shield test is covered by Medicare, so those with Medicare Part B will have no out-of-pocket cost; if you have a Medicare Advantage plan, you may have a copay. Once Shield is included in clinical screening guidelines, many commercial insurance providers are expected to cover it as well.

“I’m so glad I didn’t let the stress of a colonoscopy or the ‘ick’ factor of stool tests stop me from taking care of my health,” said Brown. “Early detection can save your life and now the Shield blood test makes screening so easy. It just makes sense to get it done and know your status.”

Adults 45 and older who are due for colon cancer screening can talk to their doctor about whether Shield is the right option for them. To learn more about Shield, visit ShieldCancerScreen.com.

Shield is indicated for colorectal cancer screening in individuals at average risk for the disease, age 45 years or older. Patients with a positive result should be followed by colonoscopy. Shield is not a replacement for diagnostic colonoscopy or for surveillance colonoscopy in high-risk individuals. This test is performed at Guardant Health, Inc.