01 Dec December Healthcare Observances
Healthcare Observances in December
At Prescription PR, a doctor marketing company based in Northport, NY, we are dedicated to building recognition for medical practices. December is an especially auspicious month of the year because there are special healthcare observances recognized this month. While most associate December with the holiday season, it is especially important to keep in mind this time of year the millions of people living with illnesses. If you are a healthcare provider or in the healthcare industry, to build recognition to these observances can make a difference in your community. Reach out to learn more about our services at Prescription PR.
December 1: World AIDS Day
December 1st is an internationally recognized day to raise awareness of the AIDS epidemic, which caused the death of 940,000 people in 2017 alone. HIV (the human immunodeficiency virus) which can result in AIDS has a prevalence of 0.8% in adults worldwide. HIV treatment has become increasingly more effective to suppress the viral load with the advent of antiretroviral therapy (ART). Even with the discovery and global manufacturing of ART therapy, only 59% of people living with HIV have access to treatment. Therefore, if you are a doctor marketing your practice, it is especially important to reach out to those living with this disease. Contact us at Prescription PR to find out more today.
December 2-8: National Handwashing Awareness Week
Washing your hands is crucial to preventing the spread of illnesses especially viruses this season. Germs from unwashed hands can cause respiratory illness which can lead to hospitalizations secondary to pneumonia. It is the perfect time of year to remind patients to take the extra time to wash your hands thoroughly this year, using antibacterial soap and warm water, and scrubbing for at least 20 seconds.
December 2-8: National Influenza Vaccination Awareness Week
Flu is unpredictable and can occur as early as the fall or late into spring. The influenza vaccine is currently recommended for all kids and adults over the age of 6 months annually. Traditional flu vaccines are made up of antigens to protect against Influenza Virus A and B. This year it is especially easy to get your flu vaccine.
December 3: International Day of Persons with Disabilities
The world is made up of over 7 billion people, and approximately 1 billion people or 15% of the world’s population live with disabilities. The world’s “largest minority” are disabled persons. This year take the time to demonstrate respect, inclusiveness, and development in and outside of the workplace. The International Day of Persons with Disabilities aims to create a society where people are encouraged to work together and accomplish a life of inclusivity and peace.
December 4-8: National Older Driver Safety Awareness Week
This year get the facts. One in six drivers in the United States is 65 years or older. Older drivers are twice as more likely to have a chronic disease or take medications, which can have side effects. Four in five older adults take more than one medication daily. It is important to discuss with your older patients their driving behavior to ensure that any medications taken do not interfere.
December is Colorectal Cancer Education & Awareness Month
If you are 50-75, it is important to get screened for colorectal cancer every ten years if not more frequently. If you are a health care provider or doctor marketing to your patients, it is especially important to share this message as well. In the United States, 140,000 people get diagnosed with colorectal cancer, resulting in up to 50,000 deaths.
Make a Resolution to Quit Smoking this Coming Year!
Lastly, but certainly not least, December is a great time to make a New Year’s resolution for the upcoming year. Why not have it be to stop smoking? Quitting smoking is a great way to reduce the risk of COPD and lung cancer, reduce financial burden, and create a healthier and more active lifestyle. December is a good time to talk to your patients about the impact smoking is having on their life.
At Prescription PR, we are a team of marketing specialists dedicated to making your medical practice thrive. We want to take this time to give special recognition to these healthcare observances in December and to share the message that we are all experiencing life together. Take the time to help a loved one this season and show compassion. If you are a doctor marketing your practice, do not hesitate to contact us at Prescription PR today!
