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As January unfolds, we find ourselves in the midst of National Cervical Health Awareness Month—a dedicated time to spotlight an often-overlooked facet of women's well-being. In this collective effort to prioritize health, let's explore the significance of cervical health and the crucial role it plays in women's lives. Cervical health is a cornerstone of reproductive well-being, influencing fertility, childbirth, and overall gynecological health. While often relegated to the background of health discussions, its importance cannot be overstated. This month prompts us to reevaluate our approach and consider the proactive steps we can take to prioritize and safeguard our cervical health. At the forefront of cervical health concerns is Human Papillomavirus (HPV), a prevalent and potentially serious threat. National Cervical Health Awareness Month provides a platform for candid discussions about HPV—its prevention, vaccination, and the paramount need for early detection. Understanding the link between HPV and cervical health empowers women to make informed decisions about their health. Regular screenings, such as Pap smears and HPV tests, emerge as critical tools in the early detection of abnormalities. This month serves as a timely reminder to schedule routine check-ups, emphasizing the importance of early detection in enhancing the likelihood of successful treatment. Proactivity in health maintenance becomes not just a recommendation but a tangible step toward overall well-being. Knowledge is empowerment, and in the realm of women's health, it is a potent tool. National Cervical Health Awareness Month encourages women to educate themselves about their bodies, recognizing risk factors, symptoms, and prevention strategies. This collective knowledge-sharing within communities creates a ripple effect, fostering a culture of awareness and informed decision-making. Breaking down the stigma surrounding reproductive health is an integral part of this awareness campaign. Conversations about cervical health, often shrouded in societal taboos, gain prominence during this month. By dismantling these barriers, we create an environment where women feel comfortable discussing their health concerns openly with healthcare providers and peers. Support systems play a pivotal role in the health journey of women. Family, friends, and healthcare professionals form a robust network that provides emotional support, guidance, and encouragement. Recognizing the importance of these support systems contributes not only to individual well-being but also to the collective strength of the community. National Cervical Health Awareness Month beckons us to prioritize and empower women in their health journey. By fostering awareness, encouraging open conversations, and actively participating in our health care, we contribute to a future where cervical health is not just a monthly focus but an integral part of our ongoing commitment to well-being. For resources and information please follow the links below: Healthy Texas Women Cervical Cancer Breast and Cervical Cancer Services

Caring for a loved one is rewarding but can be challenging. As caregivers, it's crucial to prioritize your well-being to provide the best care. Here's a concise guide to help caregivers recognize signs of stress and take proactive steps. Signs You Need Help: Persistent fatigue or heightened anxiety Increased irritability or impatience Sense of isolation or disconnection Difficulty with sleep patterns or insufficient rest Prolonged feelings of sadness or diminished interest in usual activities Frequent headaches, pain, or physical ailments Limited time for exercise or maintaining a nutritious diet Neglect of personal care tasks, such as hygiene practices Elevated reliance on substances, including alcohol or prescription medications Recognizing these signs early allows you to address stressors and seek support before becoming overwhelmed. Prioritize your well-being to continue providing excellent care for your loved one. Self-Care Strategies: Be Active: Find enjoyable activities like walking or dancing to stay active, even in short intervals. Eat Well: Maintain a balanced diet with a variety of healthy foods and stay hydrated. Prioritize Sleep: Aim for 7-9 hours of sleep, establish a bedtime routine, and maintain a consistent sleep schedule. Reduce Stress: Try relaxation techniques like meditation or yoga, and explore free smartphone apps for guided meditations or soothing music. Make Time to Relax: Dedicate moments each week to activities unrelated to caregiving—watch a show, read, or engage in a hobby. Keep Up with Health: Schedule overdue doctor's appointments and communicate your caregiving role for additional support and resources. Seek Support: Talk to trusted friends, family, or a mental health professional. Consider joining caregiver support groups for shared experiences and advice. Take Breaks: Don't hesitate to ask for assistance from others, whether it's a family member, friend, or professional aide. Be Kind to Yourself: Acknowledge and express normal feelings of sadness or frustration. Remember, you're making a significant difference in someone else's life. In the midst of caregiving responsibilities, taking care of yourself ensures you can provide the best care for your loved one. You're not alone—many caregivers face similar challenges. Give yourself credit for the impactful role you play in someone else's life. Feel free to share this guide with your caregivers to promote their well-being and enhance the caregiving experience. For more information and resources, check out the links below: Caregiver Action Network (CAN) Friends' Health Connection U.S Department of Health and Human Services

Good news, CDS Employers at In-Home Attendant Services! The Texas Health and Human Services Commission has launched the Direct Care Careers website to simplify the search for personal care attendants. Why You'll Love It: Effortless Hiring: Create an account to post job listings with all the details you need. Find the perfect match hassle-free. Candidate Profiles: Job seekers can showcase their skills and preferences by creating profiles. It's a win-win for employers and candidates! Future Support: Exciting plans ahead! The website will soon offer training resources and valuable workforce information. Personal care attendants, also known as personal care assistants, community attendants, or direct care service workers, offer a range of crucial services. From daily tasks to medication assistance, they play a key role in enhancing the lives of those they care for. Flexible Opportunities: For Everyone: Ideal for college students, stay-at-home parents, and retirees. No Experience Needed: Jump into this rewarding career without prior experience. Join us in embracing this new resource! CDS Employers, create your account on the Direct Care Careers website today. Let's make a positive impact on in-home care together. Your next outstanding personal care attendant is just a click away!

W-2 Forms As we embark on the new year, we want to extend our gratitude for entrusting us with your CDS needs. We are pleased to inform you that the W-2 forms for your employees will be available for download on January 31st, 2024. Understanding the importance of these forms in the tax-filing process, we are committed to providing a seamless experience for both you and your employees. The W-2 forms can be accessed through the Employee Portal at https://ep-ihas.accunfp.com/. W-4 Exemptions and Federal Tax Withholding Your employees' federal income tax withholding is determined by the marital status and number of allowances claimed on the W-4 Form (Employee’s Withholding Allowance Certificate). For assistance on determining the right withholding, check out these IRS resources: • Tax Withholding: IRS Website • Redesigned W-4 Form: Download Here • Withholding Calculator: IRS Calculator • Useful Information: Publication 15 (Circular E) If your employees want to change their federal tax withholding or address, they can print and complete a W-4 form. The updated form should be submitted to In-Home Attendant Services at any time during the year as their tax status changes. Important Note: Federal Tax Withholding exemption submitted in 2023 expires on February 16, 2024. If not renewed, the Payroll Department will withhold federal tax at the single rate with zero withholding allowances. To renew the exemption, instruct your employees to complete a 2024 W-4 and forward it to IHAS. Regularly evaluate exempt status and make necessary changes. Check the IRS website for the updated W-4 form for 2024 at the IRS Website. Should any of your employees require assistance or have questions, our dedicated team of CDS Consultants is ready to help. Wishing you and your employees a smooth and successful tax season ahead!

As we age, the risk of falling becomes a significant concern, with potential consequences ranging from fractures to long-term disability. The good news is that many falls are preventable, and taking proactive steps can significantly reduce the risk for older adults. In this guide, we'll explore the causes of falls, practical tips for prevention, and what to do if a fall occurs. Causes of Falls Understanding the factors that contribute to falls is crucial in preventing them. Various aspects, such as changes in eyesight, hearing, reflexes, and certain medical conditions, can impact balance and increase the likelihood of falling. Additionally, age-related factors like muscle loss, balance issues, and blood pressure fluctuations play a role. Medications, unsafe footwear, and environmental hazards at home also contribute to the risk. Prevention Tips Stay Physically Active: Engage in exercises that improve muscle strength and flexibility. Activities like walking, climbing stairs, yoga, Pilates, and tai chi can be beneficial. Home Safety: Make your living space fall-proof by addressing potential hazards. Simple changes, such as securing rugs, installing handrails, and proper lighting, can make a significant difference. Regular Health Check-ups: Monitor and maintain your eyesight and hearing. Ensure your prescription glasses or contact lenses are up-to-date, and use hearing aids if prescribed. Medication Awareness: Be aware of the side effects of medications. Consult your doctor or pharmacist if any medication causes dizziness or confusion. Adequate Sleep: Prioritize good sleep hygiene, as fatigue increases the risk of falling. Limit Alcohol: Excessive alcohol consumption can impair balance, so it's essential to drink responsibly. Assistive Devices: If necessary, use canes or walkers correctly to provide stability and prevent falls. Footwear: Choose nonskid, rubber-soled, low-heeled shoes for proper support and avoid walking on slippery surfaces in socks or smooth-soled shoes. Weather Awareness: Exercise caution in adverse weather conditions, and consider staying indoors when it's unsafe to venture outside. What to Do If You Fall In the unfortunate event of a fall, remain calm and follow these steps: Breathe: Take deep breaths to relax and assess the situation. Check for Injuries: Determine if you are hurt before attempting to get up. Crawl to Safety: If you can get up safely, crawl to a sturdy chair and sit down slowly. Seek Help: If you are injured or unable to get up, ask for assistance or call 911. Keep a charged phone with you and consider emergency response systems for added safety.

The holiday season is upon us, and while it's a time of merriment and joy for many, it can bring added challenges and stress, especially for our dedicated first responders in the great state of Texas. Balancing the demands of duty with the desire to partake in family festivities is no easy feat. Throw in the tempting treats of the season, and it's a recipe for increased stress and potential burnout. First responders, always on the front lines, find themselves working during special family events and programs, facing heightened call volumes during what's touted as "the happiest time of the year." To address these unique challenges, the International Association of Fire Fighters (IAFF) recently hosted a free webinar focused on managing holiday stress specifically tailored to the first responder community. The webinar, titled "Managing Holiday Stress for First Responders," delves into the undeniable correlation between increased stress and decreased mental well-being during this festive season. It offers practical strategies designed to help our heroes navigate the unique challenges that arise during the holidays. One of the key takeaways from the webinar is the importance of recognizing the impact of holiday-related stress on mental health. Increased demands and expectations during this time can take a toll, affecting both personal and professional well-being. The webinar provides insights into identifying these stressors and offers coping mechanisms to ensure that our first responders can find moments of peace amidst the chaos. For those who find themselves or their loved ones struggling during this holiday season, help is just a call or text away. The Heroes Helpline, available at 833-EMS-inTX (833-367-4689), is accessible 24/7/365. Whether it's a quick chat or a more in-depth conversation, the helpline is a valuable resource for those who need support during the holidays. As we navigate this holiday season, let's take a moment to appreciate and acknowledge the tireless efforts of our first responders in Texas. Their dedication ensures the safety and well-being of our communities, even when faced with the additional challenges the festive season brings. To our first responders, we extend our heartfelt gratitude, and to everyone else, we wish you a joyful and stress-free holiday season. To watch the webinar, follow the link here.

In a pivotal move towards safeguarding the well-being of Texans, the Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) has launched the "Notice to Victims of Family Violence, Dating Violence, Stalking, Harassment, or Terroristic Threat". This comprehensive document not only informs survivors of their rights but also provides crucial information on where to swiftly access support services, shelter, and protection. By empowering survivors with knowledge, HHSC aims to break the cycle of silence and ensure that victims are aware of the legal protections available to them. For more information, please click here.

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.