It’s Monday! Enjoy your Morning Rounds

March 21, 2022

“The future depends on what you do today.” —Mahatma Gandhi

In the News

1. Raising Kidney Health Awareness During National Kidney Month

During March, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services Office of Minority Health (CMS OMH) recognizes National Kidney Month. Estimates show more than 1 in 7 adults have Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) and 9 in 10 adults with CKD do not know they are infected with the disease. CKD is most common in those over the age of 65 and among those with Medicare. Visit CMS OMH’s Health Observances page for a collection of resources for you and your patients.

2. Black Doulas and Black Mothers Program

A recent article discusses the Black Doulas and Black Mothers Program, which aims to improve maternal health and create a workforce pipeline. In May 2021, The North Carolina Obstetrical and Gynecological Society (NCOGS) offered its endorsement and support of Ms. Venus Standard’s, a certified nurse midwife and the program director, request for support from The Duke Endowment and applauded her project to expand and improve maternal care through a doula training program, as well as her goal of improving services for and in collaboration with underserved communities. Read the NCOGS letters of endorsement: The Duke Endowment and C. Felix Harvey Award.

3. Standing Order for Contraception

Recently, the North Carolina Obstetrical & Gynecological Society (NCOGS) shared important information regarding a notice from the State Health Director, Dr. Betsey Tilson, issued Monday, March 14th.

Self-administered oral or transdermal contraceptives

o    Hormonal Contraceptive Standing Order – Signed March 2022
o    Patient Documentation Communication Form – March 2022

COVID-19 Updates

1.    NC will start using 7 new metrics to chart COVID’s severity and spread. What we know

2.    HHS launches vaccine ad campaign targeting parents

3.    Moderna seeks FDA authorization for 4th dose of COVID shot

4.    NCDHHS COVID-19 Dashboard