MO Arthritis

Sneak Peek: World Arthritis Day 2012!

Tomorrow, October 12 is World Arthritis Day, and we encourage you to "Move to Improve" along with the rest of the world.  It's also a great reminder for us all to get moving and to increase awareness of arthritis and the personal impacts it has on us; our friends, family and neighbors; and our global community. 

Many local, national, and global agencies will be working hard to put out lots of information regarding arthritis and World Arthritis Day tomorrow.  Take some time throughout the day to educate yourself by checking in on MAOP's webpage (www.moarthritis.org), Facebook page (www.facebook.com/MOArthritis), and Twitter page (www.twitter.com/MOArthritis). Other good resources include the World Arthritis Day webpage (www.worldarthritisday.org) and Twitter (www.twitter.com/ArthritisDay) as well as the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention page (www.cdc.gov/arthritis) and Twitter (www.twitter.com/CDCChronic).

Take a sneak peek at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Features page which highlights Arthritis, World Arthritis Day 2012, and ways to Move to Improve! http://www.cdc.gov/Features/Arthritis/index.html

MAOP Press Release - Funding Expands Community Programs

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE                                    Contact: Missouri Arthritis and Osteoporosis Program

October 9, 2012                                                                 (888) 702-8818

 

Missouri Arthritis and Osteoporosis Program Awarded Funding for Chronic Disease and Arthritis Specific Self-Management and Physical Activity Community Programs

The Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services (DHSS) (http://health.mo.gov) recently applied for, and was awarded, grant funding from three national organizations.  Funding will assist the DHSS, through the Missouri Arthritis and Osteoporosis Program (MAOP) (www.moarthritis.org), the seven Regional Arthritis Centers (RACs) and partners, to deliver self-management and physical activity programs and to provide various educational resources.  Programs and resources provided are especially beneficial to Missourians with chronic health conditions, such as arthritis, diabetes, heart disease and high blood pressure, as well as to health professionals and caregivers for people with chronic health conditions.

Specifically, Missouri was awarded funding from:

• The National Association of Chronic Disease Directors (NACDD) and Abbott Labs – A one year grant from April 1, 2012 – March 31, 2013 for $60,000 was awarded to DHSS, MAOP, and the Northeast, Kansas City area, and Southeast Missouri RACs.  This funding provides 1) professional development seminars for allied health professionals who have contact with Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) patients and 2) public awareness.  Please visit www.chronicdisease.org for more information on NACDD.
• The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) – A five year grant from June 30, 2012 – June 29, 2017 for approximately $2.72 million.  $485,000 was awarded to DHSS, MAOP, and all seven RACs for use in the first year.  Programs provided under this award include the Arthritis Foundation Exercise Program, Walk With Ease group and individual programs, the Arthritis Toolkit, the Chronic Disease Self-Management Program (CDSMP), and Tomando Control de su Salud.  Please visit www.cdc.gov/arthritis for more information on the CDC Arthritis Program.
• The Administration on Aging (AoA) – A three year grant from September 1, 2012 – August 31, 2015 for approximately $900,000.  $300,000 was awarded to DHSS, MAOP, seven RACs, and ten Area Agencies on Aging (AAAs) for use in the first year.  Programs provided under this award include the CDSMP; Tomando Control de su Salud; Better Choices, Better Health (BCBH) - online; Diabetes Self-Management Program; and BCBH for Diabetes - online.  The Diabetes Self-Management Program and BCBH for Diabetes will not be introduced until year two of this grant.  Please visit www.aoa.gov for more information on the AoA.

Regional professional development seminars are a great method for health professionals to learn more about rheumatic conditions as well as how programs offered can compliment medical care.  All eight self-management and physical activity courses, to be offered year-round, are designed for individuals with risk factors for or with chronic health conditions.  Individuals with multiple chronic health conditions may find additional benefit from these courses as they learn how their conditions interact and can impact their overall health.  Self-management courses can also be beneficial for caregivers or family of those with chronic conditions. 

Missouri’s classes (www.moarthritis.org/classes.html) serve all individuals, whether newly diagnosed, controlled condition(s), or not yet diagnosed.  If a course isn’t regionally listed, contact the RAC (www.moarthritis.org/regional-arthritis-centers.html) to begin a group or get added to a waiting list.  Contact the RAC by calling toll-free (1-888-702-8818) or by using contact information on the MAOP website (www.moarthritis.org) to find out more about programs offered or about becoming a leader.

 

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Missouri Arthritis and Osteoporosis Program
moarthritis@gmail.com

 

MAOP Press Release - Courses Help Missourians

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE                                    Contact: Missouri Arthritis and Osteoporosis Program

October 5, 2012                                                                 (888) 702-8818

 

Self-Management and Physical Activity Courses Help Missourians with Chronic Health Conditions, including Arthritis, Take Control and Improve Health

Having knowledge of one or more chronic health conditions and their personal effects can help one take control of their health.  Additionally, being actively engaged in one or more forms of physical activity can improve an individual’s overall well-being.  Through its seven Regional Arthritis Centers (RACs), the Missouri Arthritis and Osteoporosis Program (MAOP) offers three self-management (SM) and two physical activity (PA) programs locally around the state. 

The Chronic Disease Self-Management Program (CDSMP) (SM) is a group format course that is offered by trained leaders in six-week increments, meeting once per week for 2.5 hours.  Topics covered include: techniques to deal with problems associated with chronic conditions; appropriate exercise; appropriate use of medications; communicating effectively with family, friends and health professionals; nutrition and setting goals.

The Tomando Control de su Salud (SM) program is a Spanish language group format course that is similar in content and process to the English language CDSMP, but addresses health topics in a culturally appropriate manner.  Topics covered include appropriate use of the health care system; how to evaluate new treatments; communicating effectively with family, friends and health professionals; healthy eating; appropriate use of medications; and setting goals.

The Arthritis Toolkit (SM) is an independent format course that is designed for use on your own time over the course of six weeks.  The Arthritis Toolkit draws from topics covered in the Arthritis Foundation Self-Help program (six-week group course).  Topics covered include: self-management of arthritis-specific conditions.  The Arthritis Toolkit can be checked out from your local RAC.

The Arthritis Foundation Exercise Program (PA) is a group format course offered by trained leaders in six-week increments, meeting two to three times per week.  Some sites choose to offer the program year round to participants.  Topics covered include: range-of-motion, flexibility, balance, strengthening and endurance-building activities; relaxation techniques; and health education topics.

The Walk With Ease (PA) program is offered in group or independent formats.  In the group course, trained leaders work with participants three times a week over the course of six weeks.  For the independent course, individuals use a workbook three times a week over a six-week period.  Topics include pain management; walking routine development; stretching, warming up and cooling down.

All courses are offered year-round and are designed for individuals with risk factors for or with chronic health conditions, such as arthritis, diabetes, heart disease, and high blood pressure.  Courses meet participants at their personal level – whether newly diagnosed, with a controlled condition, or not yet diagnosed.  Individuals with multiple chronic health conditions may find additional benefit from these courses as they learn how their conditions interact and can impact their overall health.  Self-management courses can also be beneficial for caregivers or family of those with chronic conditions.

For a complete schedule of courses offered and to learn more, click on your region at: www.moarthritis.org/regional-arthritis-centers.html.  If a course isn’t listed in your area, contact the RAC by calling the toll-free line at 1-888-702-8818 or via the website at www.moarthritis.org to begin a group or get added to a waiting list.  You can also contact the RAC to find out more about becoming a program leader. Find out more about MAOP programs by checking out our Facebook page at www.facebook.com/MOArthritis.

 

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Missouri Arthritis and Osteoporosis Program
moarthritis@gmail.com

 

Flu Season is on the Way!

As influenza, commonly known as the "flu," season approaches, it is important for everyone to be aware of symptoms of the flu, as well as how you can prevent this contagious illness.  It is especially important for older adults and individuals with chronic health conditions to be aware of how to protect themselves.

There are many websites that provide information about the flu, flu prevention techniques, and where to receive a flu vaccine.  The Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services has a website available that provides information on what the flu is, symptoms of the flu, how to avoid getting and spreading it, and information on the flu vaccine.  To see more of this basic information on the flu, please visit http://health.mo.gov/living/families/handwashing/flubasics.php.

Additionally, there are national organizations that are great sources for information on the flu.  The National Center on Aging (NCOA) has an educational campaign called "Flu + You" to help educate older adults about influenza and prevention.  NCOA also provides links to more information on the flu for all adults; these can be accessed here.  The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) also has information on the flu season, with information specific to 2012-2013.  The CDC also has information specific to people at "high risk," including adults 65 years and older and individuals with chronic health conditions like heart disease and stroke, diabetes, and cancer.  Overall information on the flu from the CDC can be found on their site http://www.cdc.gov/flu/index.htm.

One of the common themes between all sites talking about the flu, is flu prevention.  Flu vaccines are available to individuals as a means of preventing contracting this contagious illness.  To find a flu clinic near you in Missouri, click on this link to the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services' Scheduled Flu Clinics website.  Hover your mouse over the county you live in, and then click the link in the pop-up to "View Clinic Schedule".

Take steps now to protect yourself, your family, and your friends from this year's flu season!

Tools to Reduce Hospital Readmissions

Many of us have either spent time hospitalized or have spent time with a loved one who has been hospitalized.  For those of us who have been in either position, the last place we want to be after being discharged from the hospital is right back in it.  However, sometimes our health necessitates a return visit.  Hospitals provide great service and care to their patients, but they also recognize the value of individuals not quickly returning for the same issue. 

According to a study published in the New England Journal of Medicine, approximately 1 in 5 Medicare beneficiaries reported being readmitted to a hospital within 30 days of discharge between 2003-2004. While hospitals have long worked on their own to minimize readmission rates, they are receiving some external incentives to reduce these rates. 

Through the Affordable Care Act, a Value-Based Purchasing Program with Medicare will be linking payment to quality outcomes of hospitals.  Beginning in October 2012, hospitals will receive financial penalties in regard to their Medicare reimbursement for having too many individuals readmitted soon after their discharge.  Kaiser Health News released an article recently highlighting these Medicare based financial changes.  Here in Missouri, several institutions in the St. Louis area and institutions statewide (MO is listed on pages 36-38) will begin feeling that impact.

Dr. Carolyn Clancy highlights this issue in her recent Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality advice column: Navigating the Health Care System: Helping You Avoid Return Trips to the Hospital.  Through a variety of tools, hospitals can work to avoid financial penalties that are being applied based on readmission rates for specific diagnoses.

One of the greatest tools that hospitals can use to reduce return readmissions is the creation of a unified care team.  Many hospitals are looking into care transitions programs or discharge planning teams.  Community organizations and programs, as well as the patient and their family and friends, can help to create a holistic team centered on improving the health of the patient.  One document to be used upon discharge includes a document from the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality, the Going Home Guide. 

In Missouri, there are several self-management programs and physical activity programs offered by partners of the Missouri Arthritis and Osteoporosis Program and its seven Regional Arthritis Centers.  These programs may be a good starting point for an individual upon discharge from the hospital.  Programs like the Chronic Disease Self-Management Program can help an individual manage the conditions that may have led to a hospitalization, been diagnosed during their hospitalization, or been made worse as a result of hospitalization for another reason.  In working with family, friends, community partners, and a hospital team, an individual can improve their health as well as their ability to stay out of the hospital once they leave it.

Falls Prevention Awareness 2012

September is Falls Prevention Awareness Month.  Events have been planned throughout the state of Missouri during the month to raise awareness about falls, the health problems they can cause, and how to prevent falls.  To view events occurring in Missouri in September, please visit the Show Me Falls Free Missouri website.  Most events occur on Friday, September 21, the national day for Falls Prevention Awareness. National coverage is being provided to this monthly topic, and Science Daily news website recently published an article regarding a potential falls prevention tool:  'Magic Carpet' Could Help Prevent Falls.

Additionally, the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services has put forth materials to help educate Missourians about falls prevention.  Check out one of DHSS' posters "5 Simple Things YOU Can Do to Prevent Falls" below, or linked here.  You can also send an e-card to a loved one sharing the news about Falls Prevention Awareness Day.  Missouri DHSS e-cards can be found here.

Improvements and Savings for Those with Medicare

For individuals who have Medicare, new things are happening to make life a little sweeter.  Thanks to the Affordable Care Act (2010 health care law), people with Medicare have received financial savings on prescription drugs since the law was enacted.  The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) recently highlighted these savings of over $4.1 billion in the past two years.  To read more about these savings, read CMS' press release here.  Want more information on the Affordable Care Act and what it means for you?  Check out the U.S. Government's website, www.healthcare.gov/law.

Additionally, Medicare beneficiaries may find more ease in finding information on the Medicare website, www.medicare.gov.  In more news from CMS, the website has been redesigned to be more user friendly (including new quick links and a search function), and to get information specific to their situation.  Also new is the ability to view information on mobile devices including smart phones and tablets.  Read all about the changes on CMS' website here.

Programs Implemented Help Individuals and Communities

The Missouri Arthritis and Osteoporosis Program (MAOP) offers three self-management programs and two physical activity programs throughout the state.  Each of these programs has the potential to not only help individuals who complete the courses, but also reaches out to entire communities.

One of the programs offered in Missouri, the Chronic Disease Self-Management Program, has been making an impact within the VA Medical Center in Kansas City.  In the Spring of 2012, KC VAMC adopted the CDSMP program, and has hit the ground running with introducing the program to its community.  KC VAMC and the CDSMP program were highlighted in the Summer 2012 issue of HealthPOWER! prevention news.  To access the article, please click on this link and see pages 15-16 for the story "HPDP Bright Spot: VISN 15 Implements Chronic Disease Self-Management Program".

Additionally, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention have recently highlighted that 6 of 10 adults get their physical activity by walking.  The article, which can be read in full on the CDC website here, identifies that even though walking is a common form of physical activity for adults, less than half of all adults are getting the appropriate amount of physical activity to have the necessary health benefits. 

The two physical activity programs offered by MAOP include the Arthritis Foundation Exercise Program and Walk With Ease.  Both programs offer adults the opportunity to receive support and structure while participating in a group setting (or, alternately, as an individual for Walk With Ease) and engaging in physical activity.

For a complete list of courses offered in the state of Missouri, please see courses available in your region.  If a course isn't listed in your area, contact your region's Regional Arthritis Center (RAC) coordinator to be put on a wait list or to begin a group. You can also contact your RAC coordinator if you are an organization who would like to look into adopting one or more of MAOP's self-management education programs offered in Missouri.

Frequently Asked Questions about the Affordable Care Act

Cover Missouri, as part of the Missouri Foundation for Health, works to promote "quality, affordable health coverage for every Missourian".  As part of their efforts, they assist Missourians in understanding what legal changes to the health care system can mean for people like you and me.  With the recent media coverage of the Supreme Court's decision to uphold the Affordable Care Act, many questions have arisen regarding how this affects health care and what it means for United States consumers.  Cover Missouri, has put forth several videos touching on some of the questions they have most frequently received from Missourians.  You can view those videos here: http://www.covermissouri.org/acatopics/acaquickanswers.asp

Self-Management, Research and More to help Improve Quality of Life with Arthritis

According to the AARP Public Policy Institute, the sixth most prevalent chronic condition in the United States 50+ population is arthritis. 17.4% of adults over age 50 have either rheumatoid arthritis or osteoarthritis, meaning the prevalence could be even higher when taking into account the over 100 other types of arthritis. 

Having a chronic health condition, like arthritis, can make it especially important to be aware of external factors that can affect your ability to receive the best possible care for your health.  There has been much talk in the media in recent months surrounding the Affordable Care Act.  It is important for individuals, including those with disabilities – such as arthritis, to be aware of how the Affordable Care Act can work for them.  The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services has a website that contains many valuable resources to help keep us all up-to-date on the Affordable Care Act, including an introductory brochure.

May is nationally known as Arthritis Action Month.  Organizations, like the Arthritis Foundation, work to create awareness of arthritis, to dispel myths surrounding arthritis, and to initiate advocacy and action to change the course of arthritis.  This past May, the Arthritis Foundation published a document which helps to quickly portray the prevalence of arthritis. 

With the prevalence of arthritis in the U.S. being high, research is continuously being done to help provide answers regarding arthritis.  Research also helps provide better treatment options which can lead to a better quality of life for individuals with arthritis.  Researchers at the University of Missouri have developed a test to determine whether or not an individual is developing arthritis and which can potentially predict the severity of the disease.  You can read more about this specific research here.

Currently, one of the best treatments for improving your quality of life is to take control of your condition(s) through self-management and physical activity.  The Chronic Disease Self-Management Program, from Stanford University, is a six-week program that helps individuals with one or more chronic health conditions independently manage their symptom(s) and condition(s).  This group-setting program can be very beneficial to participants as they realize they are not alone in managing their chronic condition(s). 

Programs like CDSMP are not only beneficial to participants, but they are beneficial to health care providers.  A patient’s health can be improved when health care providers and community health agencies make connections to partner together.  When a team of individuals, with you as the leader, is focused on improving your health, your quality of life can be dramatically improved.  The Wall Street Journal published an article recently that focused on this concept; you can read it here.  Information about self-management and physical activities offered in Missouri by the Missouri Arthritis and Osteoporosis Program and their partners can be found here.