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Looking for health care information and quality resources? We added a few more episodes to our podcast series: Q-Tips For Your Ears. This podcast is designed for everyone – healthcare professionals, patients and family members; sharing basic healthcare information on topics that matter.

The Series was developed by Great Plains QIN Quality Improvement Advisors. Check out our newest episodes for information health equity, health disparities, social determinants of health, health literacy and cultural humility. Please share this podcast with others and be sure to check back often for new episodes. We also welcome suggestions for content and topic ideas.

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5 New Episodes:

NEW – Episode 15: Health Equity – What it is and Why it is Important
Health Equity has become a priority and highly talked about topic.  Familiarize yourself with what health equity is and learn about some of the different areas that influence an individual or a communities in achieving their best health.

NEW – Episode 16: Health Disparities – Understanding the Difference in Health Outcomes
Health disparities exist in every community. Understanding how they are identified and how this information is utilized may help you understand and be aware of your communities’ efforts or needs.

NEW – Episode 17: Social Determinants of Health (SDOH)
It is important to understand the different types of stigma associated with mental health conditions. We believe we can reduce the stigmas surrounding mental health through awareness and education. Take a few minutes to listen and learn more.

NEW – Episode 18: Health Literacy
Improving health literacy is one way to advance health equity.  Listen to this episode to better understand what health literacy is, who it affects and strategies to improve health literacy.

NEW – Episode 19: Cultural Humility
Learn what cultural humility is and how it can impact building trusting relationships and positive health outcomes.


Additional Episodes:

Episode 1: C.difficile – What Everyone Needs to Know
What is C. diff, why is awareness of C. diff infections important and how can we prevent these infections to keep us safe? November is C. Diff Awareness Month; knowing the signs and symptoms is key to improved health and better outcomes. Take a few minutes to listen and learn more.

Episode 2: Diabetes – The Path to Understanding Starts Here
Although there is no cure, diabetes can be managed with changes in lifestyle (diet and exercise) and treatment. Self-management of diabetes is critical to overall health and longevity. Education and support is available. As we recognize Diabetes Awareness Month, take a few minutes to listen and learn more.

Episode 3: Vaccines – History, Choice and What We Should Know
Understand the history of vaccines, vaccine safety, and why vaccines are important and how vaccines improve health in the community. Take a few minutes to listen and learn more.

Episode 4: The Great American Smokeout – Make a Plan to Quit Smoking
The American Cancer Society hosts the Great American Smokeout on the third Thursday of November every year. It is an opportunity for people who smoke or use smokeless tobacco to commit to healthy, nicotine-free lives. Take a few minutes to listen and learn more.

Episode 5: Antibiotic Use – Gain Knowledge and Understanding
What are antibiotics, why is antibiotic awareness important and how can we be stewards when using antibiotics.

Episode 6: Self-Measured Blood Pressure Monitoring
Self-Measured Blood Pressure Monitoring (SMBP), also known as home blood pressure monitoring, is the regular measurement of blood pressure by the patient, outside the clinical setting. SMBP requires the use of a home blood pressure measurement device by the patient to measure blood pressure at different points throughout the day. Learn how SMBP and support from the health care team can help with blood pressure control.

Episode 7: The Truth About Opioids
Opioids are medications prescribed by providers to treat persistent or severe pain. More than two million Americans misuse opioids and more than 90 Americans die every day from opioid overdose. Who is impacted and what can you or your community do to help reduce opioid misuse? Take a few minutes to listen and learn more.

Episode 8: What Are Adverse Drug Events?
Adverse drug events happen every day and can occur with anyone who is taking a medicine. What is an adverse drug event, how does it happen and what can I do to help reduce the risk? Take a few minutes to listen and learn more.

Episode 9: Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD)…Could You Have it and Not Know It?
The kidneys filter waste and excess fluid from the blood. As kidneys fail, waste builds up. Symptoms of chronic kidney disease develop slowly; some people have no symptoms at all and are diagnosed by blood and urine tests. Learn what you can do to help prevent CKD and lower the risk for kidney failure.

Episode 10: What We Know About the Bivalent Booster
This episode covers the safety and effectiveness of the Bivalent Booster to decrease risk of serious illness and hospitalization. Take a few minutes to listen and learn more

Episode 11: How to Stay Out Of The Emergency Department
When should the Emergency Department (ED) be utilized and when should a person monitor their symptoms at home? When should someone visit the doctor’s office or an urgent care clinic? Why is ED overuse important and why does it matter? Take a few minutes to listen and learn more.

Episode 12: De-stigmatizing Mental Health Conditions
It is important to understand the different types of stigmas associated with mental health conditions. We believe we can reduce the stigmas surrounding mental health through awareness and education. Take a few minutes to listen and learn more.

Episode 13: Tips For Safe Return Home
Tips for returning home after a discharge from a hospital or nursing home facility. Take a few minutes to listen and learn more.

Episode 14: Oral Health – A Window to Your Overall Health
Did you know the health of your mouth, teeth and gums has an impact on your overall health? Take a few minutes to listen and learn more.