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Getting You On the Right Path

Behavioral Health Navigators Steer Polk Residents to the Right Resources by TERESA SCHIFFER The first step toward overcoming a mental health or behavioral problem is acknowledging the problem and seeking treatment. Unfortunately, finding the right resources that can provide that help can be challenging. Peace River Center has introduced a new program providing guidance for…
Paving the Way for the Future

BayCare Polk Teaming Up With Local Colleges to Provide Immersive Experience by TERESA SCHIFFER Aspiring nurses must be dedicated to their education before they enter the field professionally, but classroom instruction alone will not prepare them for the daily duties of nursing. That’s why BayCare Health System’s Polk Region is now partnering with several local…
The Power of the PSA Test

Prostate Cancer Survivors Emphasize Importance of Crucial Screening Tool by TERESA SCHIFFER Among men in the U.S., prostate cancer is the second most common cancer. When it was first discovered by surgeon J. Adams at The London Hospital in 1853, it was considered “a very rare disease.” It took about 50 years for doctors to…

Visual Wellness in the Workplace: A Prescription for Proper Home Office Ergonomics

by Daniel Smith, O.D. In the realm of visual health, the significance of proper workplace ergonomics cannot be overstated. Technological advancement, especially in cloud computing, has led to many industries adopting remote work. Modern professionals spend a significant portion of their waking hours in a home office setting, immersed in the glow of computer screens,…
What on Earth Is Ischemic Optic Neuropathy?

by EDWARD ATTAWAY, O.D. Ischemic optic neuropathy may seem like a complex term, but it describes a condition that poses a serious risk to vision by decreasing blood flow to the optic nerve. The optic nerve serves as a cable, transmitting visual information from the eyes to the brain. When the circulation of blood, which…
Lower Extremity Swelling May Be Linked to Venous Insufficiency

The abnormal buildup of fluid in the body is called edema. Edema is commonly seen in the feet and ankles, because of the effect of gravity, swelling is particularly noticeable in these locations. Common causes of edema are prolonged standing, prolonged sitting, pregnancy, being overweight, and increase in age. Swelling in one of your legs…