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As U.S. Antibiotic Awareness Week approaches, it's our collective responsibility to shed light on the critical role antibiotics play and the growing threat of antibiotic resistance. Antibiotics are powerful medications that save lives, but the misuse and overuse of these vital drugs have led to a concerning rise in antibiotic resistance. This phenomenon occurs when bacteria evolve and develop the ability to withstand the effects of antibiotics, rendering them less effective or ineffective. Antibiotic resistance poses a significant threat to global health, making common infections more challenging to treat and increasing the risk of the spread of infections to others. It affects people of all ages and can lead to longer illnesses, more extended hospital stays, and the need for more expensive and intensive treatments. From November 18th to 24th, the U.S. Antibiotic Awareness Week serves as a rallying point for healthcare professionals, policymakers, and the public. It's an opportunity to amplify our commitment to responsible antibiotic use, preserving these life-saving drugs for generations to come. How You Can Contribute: 1. Stay up-to-date on antibiotic use, stewardship and resistance. Sign-up for listservs on antibiotic use, stewardship, and resistance. DSHS Antibiotic Stewardship listserv CDC Antibiotic Resistance and Antibiotic Use listserv 2. Educate Others: Take a moment to learn about the proper use of antibiotics and share this knowledge with your community. Knowledge is a powerful tool in the fight against antibiotic resistance. 3. Support Responsible Prescribing: If you are prescribed antibiotics, follow your healthcare professional's advice carefully. Don't self-prescribe or share antibiotics with others. 4.Follow the CDC on social media: Use social media to spark conversation throughout the week on: Twitter - @CDCgov Facebook - CDC LinkedIn - Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Instagram - CDCgov Together, we can make a difference in the fight against antibiotic resistance. Let's join hands during U.S. Antibiotic Awareness Week to ensure a healthier and more resilient future. For more information and resources, please click here.

Did you know there are some incredible resources offered by the University of North Texas's (UNT) College of Health and Public Service, specifically tailored for students with disabilities? Navigating the college landscape can pose unique challenges for individuals with disabilities. UNT, through its College of Health and Public Service, proudly presents two free college-ready programs tailored to empower students on their academic journey. College WISE Summer Program: The UNT WISE College WISE Summer Program assists young adults (ages 14-22) with disabilities in cultivating vital skills for post-secondary education. This one-week program, College WISE, immerses participants in the expectations and challenges of community college or a four-year university. With overnight accommodation provided and public transportation for campus and community exploration, this program unlocks the door to the realities of college life. UNT STEM Summer Program: This program is for those excited about diving into STEM, having a curiosity for these fields is a must! Students should be able to understand basic concepts and follow instructions. This program caters to students with limited or no prior exposure to STEM, kicking off each lesson with foundational concepts. Daily themes will spotlight various STEM subjects, allowing students to engage in hands-on interactive projects with expert guidance. Why We're Enthusiastic As advocates for accessible education, we're inspired by UNT's commitment to breaking barriers and building bridges to success for students with disabilities. Join us in celebrating and spreading the word about UNT's dedication to creating an inclusive educational space. Stay informed, stay empowered! *If you've had positive experiences with these programs or any other post-high school learning and educational endeavors, we'd love to hear from you! Your insights and stories can inspire and guide others on their educational paths. How to Apply: In order to apply for these programs, participants will need to contact their Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) Counselor through Texas Workforce Solutions (TWS). The VR Counselor is the point of contact in order to apply for the program. If you/your student does not have a VR Counselor they are currently working with please contact your nearest TWS-VR office by entering your zip code, VR Office Locator. UNT's programs are funded by TWS-VR, so the earlier you/your student can get connected the better. You can also complete the online VR Self-Referral by clicking on the following link: VR Self-Referral.

In a groundbreaking move, the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) is reaffirming the rights of individuals with disabilities under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). The DOJ's 13-page document clarifies the ADA's "integration mandate," emphasizing that segregating individuals with disabilities in employment and day programs may violate their rights. The guidance underscores the expectation for community-based settings in various services, including employment and day services, highlighting the importance of providing accurate information about integrated options. Kristen Clarke, Assistant Attorney General for Civil Rights, emphasizes that people with disabilities are entitled to work alongside their peers without disabilities, contributing and growing in typical workplaces. The guidance also acknowledges individuals' autonomy to decline integrated services, striking a balance between choice and the ADA's integration mandate. This move follows a similar guidance issued in 2016 under the Obama administration, reinstating a crucial perspective on inclusivity for people with disabilities. For more information, check out this article.

a revolutionary move, PHI and the National Alliance for Caregiving have launched the Direct Care Worker and Family Caregiver Initiative, a game-changer in the world of caregiving. The Unseen Heroes: Meet the unsung heroes of our communities—direct care workers and family caregivers. Despite providing essential support to millions, their critical connection often goes unnoticed, leading to miscommunication and suboptimal care. Facing Challenges Head-On: Addressing burnout and turnover rates among direct care workers and the strain on family caregivers, this initiative tackles the complex caregiving landscape, aiming to bring about innovation and change. Key Policy Areas and Initiatives: Focused on integrating both groups into interdisciplinary care teams, expanding access to consumer direction programs, and investing in research, the initiative paves the way for a more collaborative and supportive caregiving environment. Anticipating Growth: With the direct care workforce expected to grow significantly, particularly in home- and community-based services, this initiative anticipates the needs of those on the frontline of care. National Alignment: Aligned with the 2022 National Strategy to Support Family Caregivers, this initiative reflects a cohesive national approach to address challenges in family and professional caregiving, education, and compensation. Conclusion: The Direct Care Worker and Family Caregiver Initiative signals a transformative journey toward a more compassionate and effective long-term care system. Recognizing and addressing the challenges faced by caregivers, PHI and the National Alliance for Caregiving are lighting the way to a future where caregiving is valued, supported, and empowered. Join us on this impactful journey, as we strive for a culture of care that centers around the well-being of every individual. For more information on this initiative, follow this link.

If you're a Medicaid recipient in Texas, it's time to pay attention. Continuous Medicaid coverage ended on March 31, 2023, and this could impact your coverage. Here's what you need to know and what steps to take: Why is this important? Failure to update your information with the Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) promptly could result in losing your Medicaid coverage. Stay proactive to ensure uninterrupted access to essential healthcare services. What to do: Watch for the Yellow Envelope: Keep an eye out for a notice from HHSC titled "Action Required" in a yellow envelope. This means it's time to take action. Update Your Information: Log in to YourTexasBenefits.com or use the Your Texas Benefits mobile app to update your information, especially if your contact details have changed. Create an Account: If you don't have an account, create one on the website or mobile app. Alternatively, call 2-1-1 and choose option 2 to update your information. FAQs: Why is this important? What happens if I don’t take any action? Failure to act may result in losing your Medicaid coverage. Promptly update your information and respond to any notices from HHSC. Where can I get more information? For questions or assistance with your Texas Medicaid coverage, contact Member Services (number on your health plan member ID card) or call HHSC at 2-1-1, choosing option 2 (or call 1-877-541-7905). What happens if I don’t get a notice from HHSC? If you suspect that you haven't received notices due to outdated information, call 2-1-1 and choose option 2 to address the issue. Stay informed, take action, and ensure your Medicaid coverage remains intact. Your health is a priority! Additional FAQs End of Continuous Medicaid Coverage FAQ (PDF) Preguntas frecuentes sobre el fin de la cobertura continua de Medicaid (PDF) Informational Handouts English: Create a Your Texas Benefits Account (PDF) Renew Your Benefits (PDF) Report Changes (PDF) Do More on the Your Texas Benefits Mobile App (PDF) Reset your password (PDF) Spanish: Cree una cuenta de Your Texas Benefits (PDF) Renueve sus beneficios (PDF) Informe sobre cualquier cambio (PDF) Más opciones en la aplicación móvil de Your Texas Benefits (PDF) Restablecer su contraseña (PDF)

We at In-Home Attendant Services recently had the pleasure of participating in the Autism Festival organized by the incredible team at Success On The Spectrum. It was an event filled with warmth, connection, and a true celebration of community spirit. As our team set up our booth, we couldn't help but be inspired by the vibrant atmosphere that surrounded us. The festival not only brought together families and individuals within the autism community but also fostered an inclusive space that embraced diversity and acceptance. Engaging with the community was a highlight for us. We were thrilled to see familiar faces among our clients and share in their joy at such a special event. The smiles, laughter, and genuine connections made throughout the day reinforced the importance of community engagement and our commitment to providing support beyond the confines of our services. Success On The Spectrum did an outstanding job curating an event that not only entertained but also educated. With sensory-friendly activities, the festival provided valuable insights into the unique perspectives and strengths of individuals on the autism spectrum. At In-Home Attendant Services, being part of events like the Autism Festival goes beyond business—it's about building relationships and contributing to a community where everyone feels seen, heard, and celebrated. We had a blast, and we're grateful for the opportunity to be part of such a meaningful event. A heartfelt thank you to Success On The Spectrum and everyone who joined us. Here's to more moments of connection, understanding, and joy in the communities we serve! Stay tuned for more updates on our community involvement and the impactful experiences we share.

Exciting News! Amerigroup is becoming WellPoint in January 2024 We're thrilled to announce that Amerigroup is undergoing a simple name change! What does this mean for you? No action needed from our clients. Same excellent service, just a new name! Why the Change? Amerigroup is simply evolving to better serve you under the WellPoint banner. Their Commitment Remains: Unmatched service quality. Seamless transition, no interruptions. Stay Connected: Questions? Contact your CDS Consultant at In-Home or Service Coordinator with Amerigroup. You can also visit the frequently asked questions on Wellpoint.com

Hello! Just wanted to inform you that the AccuFund Employee Portal is currently experiencing some technical issues. Rest assured, our team is actively working on resolving them. We'll keep you informed as soon as the portal is back up and running. Thank you for your patience and understanding. -The IHAS Team

October 10th is Supportive Palliative Care Awareness Day! This special day is dedicated to raising awareness about the invaluable role of palliative care in providing comfort, support, and dignity to individuals facing serious illnesses. It's a time to come together as a community and shine a spotlight on the unique needs and challenges faced by individuals with disabilities and our elderly. Let's take this opportunity to honor and appreciate the incredible work done by palliative care providers who go above and beyond to ensure the well-being and quality of life for those in need. By spreading awareness, we can help ensure that everyone, regardless of age or ability, has access to the compassionate care they deserve. So, let's join hands, raise our voices, and make a difference on this Supportive Palliative Care Awareness Day. Together, we can create a world where every individual receives the care, comfort, and support they need during challenging times. 🌻

Dear valued Employers, We wanted to bring to your attention an important initiative called the Affordable Connectivity Program. This program aims to assist low-income households by providing resources to partially cover the cost of their internet service, depending on their eligibility. We understand that affordable internet access is crucial in today's digital age, especially for individuals and families who may face financial constraints. The Affordable Connectivity Program offers a valuable opportunity to bridge this gap and ensure that everyone has access to essential online resources. If you believe you may qualify for this program or would like to learn more about it, I have included some helpful links below for your reference: About: Affordable Connectivity Program Connectivity Program Providers FAQ These links will provide you with detailed information about the program, eligibility criteria, and how to apply. We encourage you to explore these resources and take advantage of this opportunity if it aligns with your circumstances. As always, if you have any questions or need further assistance, please don't hesitate to reach out to our team. We are here to support you and help ensure that you have access to the resources you need. The IHAS Team

Hello CDS Employers! We’ve got some great news for you! 🎉 Have you heard about the Lifeline Program? It's an amazing program administered by the Public Utilities Commission of Texas that helps qualifying low-income households in Texas reduce their monthly phone or broadband service costs. 📞 If you qualify, you could benefit from Lifeline by getting a reduction of up to $12.75 on your basic monthly telephone rate! 🤑 It's a fantastic way to make phone service more affordable for those who need it most. Just keep in mind that the program doesn't cover the cost of additional services like caller ID or voice messaging. Oh, and here's another perk! You might be eligible for a reduction for the installation of local telephone service through the Link-Up program. 🏡📞 To learn more about these programs and find participating service providers in your area, make sure to check out the links below! What is Lifeline and how do I qualify? Self-Enrollment Form Official Lifeline Program Site If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to contact your CDS Consultant! 😊

Let your voice be heard. Help HSS strengthen long-term services and supports in Texas. The Health and Human Services with The University of North Texas Health Science Center wants to hear from you. Who? Veterans, adults aged 50 and older, persons with one or more disabilities, unpaid or family caregivers or both, LTSS providers, and services provider networks What? HSS wants to hear about your experience with long-term services and supports in Texas. They've created a dynamic survey with approximately 40 questions. The survey takes 10-15 minutes to finish. When? Sept. 27 through Nov. 15 Where? This survey is available online in English or Spanish at the links below. No Wrong Door - English Survey No Wrong Door - Encuesta En Espanol Your feedback is important. Please share this survey with others who might be interested. Contact For questions about this survey, email geriatrics@unthsc.edu.