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Behavioral Health

Articles

Vaccine Updates: What You Need to Know for Fall 2024

The fall 2024 vaccine season is upon us. This guide includes everything you need to know, including CDC guidance, CMS requirements, and the latest updates for 2024.

Preparedness Can Help Make Disasters Less Stressful

Natural disasters can happen at any time, sometimes without warning. Learn how your pharmacy can help you ensure essential medications are available if disaster strikes.

Advocacy in Action: The Power of a Site Visit

A site visit from a member of Congress can be key to helping policymakers understand the intensive work required to support the individuals in your care, as well as the importance of adequate funding. Learn how to arrange and host a successful site visit.

The Medicaid Access Rule is Here

Learn what you need to know about the Ensuring Access to Medicaid Services rule. Our article addresses 5 key questions about the rule, including its meaning, requirements, and potential impact on I/DD providers.

Polypharmacy: From Common to Common Sense

Adults with intellectual and development disabilities (I/DD) often have multiple comorbidities and are on a number of medications. When health care team members work together to address polypharmacy in this population, it can improve quality of life and increase independence.

Antipsychotics in I/DD: Challenges and Opportunities

Learn 10 things you should know about using antipsychotics safely in individuals with I/DD, including the importance of ongoing assessment, appropriate dosing, and how your pharmacist can help.

Trauma-Informed Care for Individuals with I/DD

Individuals with I/DD are three to four times more likely to experience trauma compared to the general population. Learn how trauma-informed care can help individuals feel safe and avoid the triggers that lead to re-traumatization.

Expert Insight: Alicia McGrath, CEO, The Center for Family Support

Alicia McGrath shares her philosophy on strong leadership, how teamwork can help overcome challenges, and how, after 25 years of working with individuals with I/DD, she still finds joy every day.

Drug Regimens in I/DD – Why They’re so Complex

Anyone who works with individuals with I/DD knows that they often have complex regimens with multiple medications. Take a deeper dive into the reasons for the complexity, including both behavioral and physical health issues, and learn how working with an I/DD pharmacist can help.

Expert Insight: Robert S. Budd, Senior CEO/President, Family Residences & Essential Enterprises

In this interview, I/DD leader Robert S. Budd discusses the “magic” that happens when individuals’ insights and talents are honored, his efforts to reframe the sector as a valued community partner, and the challenges and opportunities he predicts for the future.

I/DD and Heart Disease: 8 Tips to Manage Risks, Reduce Complications

Individuals with I/DD have an increased risk of heart disease and may develop heart conditions at an earlier age. William Mills, MD, Executive VP of Medical Affairs for BrightSpring Health Services, shares 8 tips for effective care planning.

Expert Insight: Holly Rhodenhizer, A Serendipitous but Satisfying Path to Leadership

Holly Rhodenhizer, Vice President of Program Operations at enCircle, talks about her role as a leader, the lessons she’s learned, and the challenges facing the I/DD sector.

Build an Organizational Ship for Smooth Sailing During State Surveys

The prospect of a state survey can feel like sailing in stormy waters for I/DD agencies. However, there are ways to get and stay prepared so that you and your staff aren’t scrambling to pull together information or fill gaps in documentation.

6 Ways Art Can Benefit Individuals with I/DD

Learn about the benefits of art for individuals with I/DD and get tips for bringing art programming into your community.

7 Tips to Make Vaccination Less Stressful for Individuals with I/DD

Vaccinations can be stressful for anyone, but they can be especially difficult for people with I/DD. Try these 7 tips to help.