|
In November, over 50 OneCare Kansas (OCK) providers and collaborative partners gathered for an in-person Learning Collaborative session at the Wichita State University (WSU) Metroplex. The event included presentations from the Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) staff and group discussions centered around the presentation topics and the OCK program.
Russell Nittler, from the KDHE Division of Healthcare Finance, delivered a presentation on the Medicaid Annual Review process. The presentation covered resources for updating contact and financial information for Medicaid members and tools and opportunities for organizations to support their members through the review process. In addition, Alan O’Neal, from the KDHE Division of Health Care Finance, shared information on recent updates to the OCK Health Action Plan (HAP) Portal and data related to program enrollment, member engagement, service utilization and subsequent cost avoidance.
During the event, participants were encouraged to provide input on the OCK program, focusing on its strengths and areas for improvement. Small group discussions focused on a vision of the OCK program from the perspective of members served, resources needed to achieve that vision and contributions each participant could make to advance progress. The state’s OCK implementation team, which includes a variety of internal and external partners, will review the information gathered to identify opportunities for enhancing the overall OCK system.
WSU will resume all learning activities in 2024. Please keep an eye on your inbox for the upcoming schedule of events. The WSU Center for Public Health Initiatives wishes everyone a safe and rejuvenating holiday season!
Recent updates have been made to various OCK program forms, incorporating an improved fillable design aimed at enhancing ease of use. The following forms have been updated with the enhanced design:
The utilization of these forms is effective starting December 15, 2023. The forms are available on the OCK Forms Page. Appendix B of the OCK Program Manual now features direct web links to these forms.
The state continues to gather stories regarding the OneCare Kansas program and how it is helping KanCare members. This month’s success story comes from Chara at the Training and Evaluation Center of Hutchinson (TECH INC).
"I worked closely with Jason to integrate the regular use of his continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) machine into his daily routine. This step was crucial in improving both the quality of his sleep and his overall health and well-being. We established and implemented this goal as part of Jason's Health Action Plan (HAP).
Jason has shown dedication to incorporating the CPAP machine into his routine. Our residential staff played a supportive role by ensuring the machine maintenance of his CPAP machine and conducting regular check-ins to confirm it was functioning properly.
Making consistent progress, Jason increased his CPAP usage, reporting feeling more well-rested on the days he uses it. Our team is proud of Jason’s accomplishment and hopes that he will continue to benefit from regular CPAP use.”
Thank you, Chara, for sharing this success story and for your efforts in assisting Jason. Keep up the great work!
If you have a success story to share, please submit it to the OCK state team.
Pregnancy is a time of immense joy and anticipation. However, it is also a time when the immune system undergoes significant changes, making women more susceptible to illness. These changes can occur during pregnancy and may extend into the postpartum phase. Fortunately, there are safe and effective ways for expectant mothers to strengthen their immune systems and manage symptoms should they become ill.
Below are key strategies for boosting one’s immune system during this period:
-
Eat Well: Prioritize a well-balanced diet that focuses on fresh produce and lean protein, while minimizing refined carbohydrates and sugar. A diet rich in fruits and vegetables provides essential vitamins and minerals, supporting the immune system's ability to fight off illness.
-
Maintain Hydration: Staying well-hydrated throughout the day aids in illness prevention and symptom management. Optimal immune system functioning is supported by maintaining adequate hydration through increased water intake while avoiding caffeinated and sugary beverages.
-
Prioritize Rest: Getting adequate rest is important as the body tirelessly works to support both the mother and her growing baby. Prioritizing rest is one of the most effective natural ways to boost the immune system during pregnancy.
-
Take Prenatal Vitamins: Prenatal vitamins provide essential nutrients required for the health of the mother and her baby. Expectant mothers should consult a doctor to determine the most suitable options for prenatal vitamins.
-
Use Saline Solutions: A teaspoon of salt diluted in water can serve as a useful saline solution treatment for several illnesses. Nasal sprays can aid with nasal congestion while gargling with a saline solution can soothe symptoms of a sore throat. It is advised to avoid medicated sprays unless authorized by a doctor.
-
Use a Humidifier: A humidifier is recommended to help relieve dry nasal cavities commonly linked with a cold, as it effectively maintains moisture in the air.
Prioritizing health during and after pregnancy is extremely important. While pregnancy presents challenges, nurturing both the mother's and baby’s health is crucial. Strengthening the immune system and managing illnesses during and after pregnancy involves several practices that support the immune response but also aid in the overall well-being of expectant mothers. For more information on ways to a healthy immune system during and after pregnancy, visit this article on how to boost the immune system when pregnant.
|
