October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Each year, more than 280,000 women in the United States are diagnosed with invasive breast cancer.
Deputy Director Jim Jefferson and the Gloucester County Board of Commissioners encourage all residents to stay proactive—schedule regular screenings, know the signs, and take advantage of available support and resources.
Learn more at: https://www.
Uncover the truth about Medicare by debunking common myths and clarifying its various parts—A, B, C, and D—to help seniors navigate their healthcare options with confidence.
Medicare is a federally funded program for individuals 65 or older and younger people with disabilities designed to help cover healthcare costs. The program is vital in providing access to medical services and prescription drugs. While Medicare offers essential coverage, navigating its parts—A, B, C, and D—can be confusing. Without understanding how the parts function, misinformation can be created. This article will debunk common myths surrounding Medicare and provide clarity to seniors.
A common misconception is that many people believe Medicare covers everything, but coverage gaps exist. The reality is that Medicare only covers certain aspects of healthcare, such as hospitalization, outpatient services, and prescriptions. Even with this, additional coverage, including Medigap and Medicare Advantage plans, may be necessary.
Medicare does not typically cover routine dental, vision, hearing, and long-term care services. For many people, this comes as a surprise. Preparing to plan for these services not covered when you transition to Medicare is a good way to avoid gaps in coverage.
Original Medicare and Medicare Advantage are two different ways to receive Medicare benefits. Original Medicare consists of Part A (hospital insurance) and Part B (medical insurance). Private insurance companies provide Medicare Advantage (Part C), which includes all parts of original Medicare (Part A and B) and may offer prescription drug coverage. Some key differences include network restrictions and additional benefits. Many people think that you can see any provider with your Medicare plan.
For Medicare Advantage, this is not true. Instead of Medicare’s network of providers, Advantage plans typically come in the form of HMO or PPO, where you have specific doctors, hospitals, and providers you can use. Advantage plans also usually include dental, vision, and hearing benefits. Knowing the differences between the two can help determine the best option for an individual and their needs.
Many people believe that turning 65 is your only opportunity to enroll in Medicare. While this is true for most, there are several enrollment periods to get Medicare Part A and B:
Beneficiaries who do not utilize one of these enrollment periods risk facing late penalty fees. It is important to stay informed about the enrollment windows to ensure coverage and avoid incurring more costs.
Medicare plans, benefits, premiums, and formularies change yearly. Reviewing your Medicare plan each year can help to ensure that your coverage is the best, most cost-effective option. Not all beneficiaries choose to make a change, but failing to at least review coverage can result in missing out on additional coverage, benefits, or savings.
A good time for beneficiaries to review and make a change to Medicare Advantage or Part D plans is during the annual open enrollment period every October 15th – December 7th. Benefits typically do not change for Medigap plans since they are standardized, but rate increases may occur, so most people will rate shop to see if they can save money on their premiums.
Highlighting common myths about Medicare is critical for ensuring individuals make informed decisions about their healthcare. These myths about coverage, networks, enrollment, and changes to Medicare lead to confusion and lack of planning. Individuals on Medicare or preparing for Medicare should research the necessary information and seek guidance from advisors or other resources to maximize their coverage.
(Gloucester Township, NJ) – The Camden County Department of Health and Human Services has detected the year’s first case of West Nile Virus in a Camden County resident.
On September 30, a positive laboratory test result for West Nile Virus (WNV) was reported to the Camden County Department of Health and Human Services (CCDHHS) and an investigation was initiated.
“West Nile Virus is not typically widespread here in New Jersey; however, it is still important for residents to remain vigilant and watch for symptoms,” said Commissioner Virginia Betteridge, liaison to the Department of Health and Human Services. “The Camden County Department of Health and Human Services will continue to work with the county Mosquito Control Commission to ensure that additional spraying, treatment of waterways and testing will be conducted in the area.” Continue reading “First case of West Nile Virus of the year detected in Camden County”
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When the school bell rings in Gloucester City, many parents are already thinking about how their children will spend the rest of the afternoon. While homework and family time are important, after-school hours are also a chance for kids to build healthy habits. Some families even look to supportive services, such as a pediatric chiropractor, when children experience posture or mobility issues related to growth or sports. But for most kids, the foundation of wellness is found in community-based after-school programs that combine physical activity, learning, and fun.
Here’s a look at the variety of local programs that help kids stay active and healthy, both in body and mind.
Organized sports are among the most popular after-school activities for children in Gloucester City and surrounding towns. Local leagues give kids the chance to stay active while learning teamwork, discipline, and resilience.
Beyond the fun, these activities help kids establish fitness routines early in life, which research shows reduces the risk of chronic disease later on.
Not every child thrives in competitive sports, and that’s where creative arts programs with a physical element shine. After-school dance classes, theater groups, and even martial arts studios throughout South Jersey give children a chance to stay active while expressing themselves.
These options appeal to kids who want something more expressive than team sports while still benefiting from regular movement.
Some after-school programs take a blended approach by combining academic support with wellness activities. Gloucester City schools and community organizations often provide tutoring or homework help sessions that include scheduled breaks for physical play.
This model benefits children in two ways:
By tying physical activity to academic programs, these initiatives emphasize the connection between mental and physical health.
Community centers and YMCA branches in the wider South Jersey region play a vital role in providing safe, structured after-school spaces. These programs often include swimming, fitness classes, and even healthy snack initiatives.
Parents also value the built-in social environment. Children from different schools and neighborhoods come together, creating friendships that extend beyond their classrooms. For working families, these programs are a reliable option that keeps kids supervised and active until evening.
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The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) emphasizes that children need at least 60 minutes of physical activity per day for healthy growth and development. After-school programs fill a critical gap, especially when school hours or weather limit outdoor play.
Benefits include:
With many children spending hours in front of screens, structured programs provide the necessary balance of movement and social interaction.
Selecting the right program depends on your child’s interests, needs, and schedule. Here are a few things to keep in mind:
After-school programs aren’t just a way to keep kids busy; they’re stepping stones toward lifelong habits of health and community involvement. By participating in activities that encourage movement, teamwork, and creativity, children gain confidence and learn the value of balancing responsibility with fun.
For parents, these programs offer peace of mind, knowing that their children are spending time in safe, structured, and beneficial environments. And for the community, they strengthen social ties by bringing families and neighborhoods together.
In Gloucester City and across South Jersey, after-school programs are doing more than filling time, they’re shaping healthier, happier kids. Whether through competitive sports, creative arts, or community-based wellness activities, these programs give children the tools they need to thrive.
By exploring the range of options available and encouraging kids to get involved, parents can help build a foundation of health that will last a lifetime.
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For many Gloucester City residents, staying healthy goes far beyond the basics of eating well and hitting the gym. Wellness is shaped by the routines, services, and resources we lean on every day, from annual physicals to visits with specialists such as Vancouver Dental Specialty Clinic. But truly healthy living includes more than personal checkups; it’s about the spaces we inhabit, the choices we make as families, and the way our community supports long-term well-being.
Here are several dimensions of health that Gloucester City families can focus on to create stronger, happier lifestyles.
Healthy living starts with the mind. Stress, anxiety, and lack of rest can undermine even the best diets or exercise routines. In Gloucester City, families can benefit from:
Investing in mental wellness is as important as physical checkups, and often requires only small, consistent changes.
Our houses play a huge role in overall wellness. Older Gloucester City homes, while full of character, can also hide risks like dust, mold, or outdated safety features.
The CDC notes that improving the home environment, from air quality to safe storage of chemicals, significantly reduces preventable health risks.
Exercise is crucial, but it doesn’t always have to mean a gym membership. Gloucester City residents can take advantage of outdoor and community resources:
The goal is consistency. Finding activities you genuinely enjoy makes exercise feel less like work and more like recreation.
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While it’s tempting to only seek care when problems arise, preventive healthcare is one of the smartest investments in long-term wellness. This includes:
By weaving preventive care into your yearly calendar, you reduce the risk of emergencies and improve your overall quality of life.
Food is more than calories; it’s fuel for body and mind. Many Gloucester City families find that small, realistic changes are easier to sustain than strict diets.
Focusing on balance rather than restriction makes healthy eating feel less like punishment and more like a lifestyle choice.
Wellness is stronger when shared. Gloucester City’s sense of community can be an anchor for healthier living.
When the community thrives, individual families thrive with it.
In Gloucester City, healthy living means more than just counting steps or watching calories. It’s about cultivating balance in mental health, home environment, preventive care, and community support. Whether you’re scheduling a visit to Vancouver Dental Specialty Clinic for specialized care or joining neighbors for a Saturday clean-up, every choice contributes to a stronger, healthier community. By expanding the definition of wellness beyond diet and exercise, residents can enjoy lives that are more vibrant, connected, and resilient.
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As the seasons shift in Gloucester City, many people notice subtle but real changes, not just in temperature or daylight, but in how they feel. Shorter, darker days; colder weather; the end of summer routines, all of it can weigh on our mood. While some seek help from mental health professionals, others turn to supports including Forward Mind Counselling to get through harder months. If you’ve ever felt the heavy pull of seasonal stress, here are practical ways to cope, adapt, and protect your mental wellness in these changing seasons.
Seasonal stress isn’t a formal diagnosis (unless it meets the criteria for Seasonal Affective Disorder, or SAD), but many people experience mood shifts, fatigue, or low motivation during certain times of the year. Common triggers include:
While many tolerate these changes fairly well, for some residents, especially those already dealing with anxiety, depression, or limited sunlight, seasonal stress can compound existing challenges.
If you live in Gloucester City (or anywhere with distinct seasonal shifts), you might notice:
Recognizing these signs early can help you take proactive steps rather than letting stress build up.
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As the seasons shift in Gloucester City, many people notice subtle but real changes, not just in temperature or daylight, but in how they feel. Shorter, darker days; colder weather; the end of summer routines, all of it can weigh on our mood. While some seek help from mental health professionals, others turn to supports including Forward Mind Counselling to get through harder months. If you’ve ever felt the heavy pull of seasonal stress, here are practical ways to cope, adapt, and protect your mental wellness in these changing seasons.
Seasonal stress isn’t a formal diagnosis (unless it meets the criteria for Seasonal Affective Disorder, or SAD), but many people experience mood shifts, fatigue, or low motivation during certain times of the year. Common triggers include:
While many tolerate these changes fairly well, for some residents, especially those already dealing with anxiety, depression, or limited sunlight, seasonal stress can compound existing challenges.
If you live in Gloucester City (or anywhere with distinct seasonal shifts), you might notice:
Recognizing these signs early can help you take proactive steps rather than letting stress build up.
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The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) offer a range of suggestions for managing stress that apply especially during seasonal transitions. These aren’t cures, but they’re helpful for many people.
Here are some of the most effective:
You don’t have to go far to find support. Here are local ways to work through seasonal stress:
Here are habits that don’t just work seasonally, they build resilience all year:
Seasonal stress is common, but sometimes symptoms grow more severe. Consider reaching out if:
If that happens, professional mental health resources are essential, counsellors, therapists, or primary care providers can help determine if something like SAD or another condition is involved.
It starts with sneezing, itchy eyes, or congestion—symptoms many people associate with seasonal allergies. Yet sometimes, the culprit isn’t pollen or weather changes but something much closer to home. The overlap between allergy symptoms and reactions caused by pests often leads to confusion and misdiagnosis.
When discomfort lingers indoors, it may signal that pests are contributing to the problem. Dust mites, cockroaches, rodents, and even bed bugs can all create conditions that mimic typical allergies. Left unchecked, these infestations not only disrupt comfort but also impact overall health.
This is why professional help matters. A skilled exterminator can determine whether symptoms are environmental or pest-related, giving families clarity and relief. Agile Pest Control often finds that what seems like allergies is actually the result of hidden infestations.
The human body reacts similarly to different triggers. Whether it’s pollen, mold, or pest droppings, the immune system responds with inflammation and irritation. This overlap makes it difficult to tell the difference without close observation.
For example, symptoms that persist indoors or worsen in specific rooms often point to pests. While allergies tend to improve with cleaner air or time spent outside, pest-related reactions remain steady or intensify. Recognizing this pattern can prevent months of misdirected treatment.
Not all pests trigger reactions in the same way. Some release airborne particles, while others cause direct skin irritation.
These microscopic organisms thrive in warm, humid environments such as bedding, carpets, and upholstered furniture. Their waste particles act as potent allergens. Nighttime symptoms like sneezing, congestion, or worsening asthma are common indicators. Relief often comes when staying away from home, suggesting an indoor source.
Cockroach droppings and shed skins release proteins that act as allergens. These particles can settle in ductwork, under appliances, and in hidden corners, easily spreading through the air. Children are especially vulnerable, often experiencing asthma flare-ups when exposure is prolonged.
Mice and rats produce dander and urine that evaporate into the air. Infestations hidden in attics, basements, or behind walls can cause reactions without direct contact. Noises at night, missing pet food, or droppings in storage areas provide additional clues that rodents may be present.
Unlike airborne allergens, bed bugs create reactions through bites. These often appear as red, itchy clusters on exposed skin. Because skin responses vary, some individuals confuse bites with hives or eczema. Disrupted sleep, small blood spots on sheets, or dark specks near mattresses often confirm their presence.
Comparing symptoms against environmental conditions helps clarify the cause.
Recognizing these patterns makes it easier to know when to consult an exterminator.
Persistent symptoms are often the clearest signal that pests could be involved. If over-the-counter allergy medications no longer bring relief, or if visible signs like droppings or bites appear, it’s time for inspection.
Agile Pest Control trains technicians to assess indoor environments for both pests and their impact on health. Their inspections often uncover infestations that families did not suspect, such as hidden cockroach activity or bed bugs in headboards.
Addressing pest infestations improves more than just comfort. By reducing allergens and irritants, professional pest control Colts Neck NJ enhances indoor air quality and minimizes asthma triggers. Rodent infestations, for instance, can contribute to dangerous airborne particles. Eliminating the source helps restore a healthier environment.
Bed bug treatments, while focused on eradicating pests, also provide relief from stress and sleep disruption. Many homeowners underestimate the psychological toll of living with unexplained rashes or restless nights. Resolving these issues through targeted treatment helps restore normal routines.
While professional intervention is essential for established infestations, there are preventative measures homeowners can take:
These steps support extermination efforts while making the home less inviting to future pests.
Ignoring symptoms under the assumption they are seasonal can prolong exposure. Over time, this increases discomfort and can exacerbate conditions like asthma. Children and elderly individuals are especially vulnerable to pest-related allergens.
The longer pests remain active, the harder they are to control. Bed bugs spread quickly, rodents reproduce rapidly, and cockroach allergens accumulate in hidden spaces. Delayed action often transforms a manageable problem into a widespread infestation.
Not every sneeze or rash comes from pollen. Sometimes, the home itself is the source of discomfort. By learning to distinguish between seasonal allergies and pest activity, families can protect their health and peace of mind.
When symptoms persist without relief, an inspection is a wise next step. Agile Pest Control encourages homeowners to look beyond the obvious and consider the possibility of pests. With professional support, clarity replaces uncertainty, and relief replaces discomfort.
Massage is not only a pleasant procedure but also a powerful tool for maintaining health and well-being. This technique has been around since ancient times, which proves its effectiveness, confirmed not only by time but also by numerous modern studies.
Needless to say, massage is also a powerful tool for maintaining physical and mental health. Its positive effect on blood circulation, muscle tone, and the nervous system makes it an indispensable part of taking care of your body. Therefore, don’t miss the opportunity to enjoy this procedure, which gives you vigor and vitality for the whole day. Go to any search engine, type in “massages near me,” and choose the one that’s right for you!
Massage, as a comprehensive procedure, is widely used for both aesthetic and therapeutic purposes. The variety of massage techniques and their effectiveness make it an integral part of caring for one’s health and well-being.
One of the important aspects of massage is its relaxing effect. The skilled touch of a massage therapist can relieve muscle tension and improve muscle function. This helps to eliminate back and joint pain and restore mobility and comfort in everyday life.
Massage also helps normalize blood circulation, which means more efficient delivery of oxygen and nutrients to organs and tissues. This is important for the health of internal organs and improving the overall condition of the body.
It should be noted that massage is not limited to external effects on the skin and muscles. During the procedure, there is a deeper interaction with the body. Receptors respond to various movements of the specialist, which are converted into nerve impulses. This reduces receptor irritation, reduces tissue clamping, and restores their elasticity and mobility.
Massage is a powerful tool for maintaining and restoring health, which has a beneficial effect on various systems and organs of the body. During massage, the following occurs:
Each type of massage has its own characteristics and is aimed at solving specific problems. It can be both therapeutic and wellness-oriented, depending on the needs of the body. It is important to remember that effectiveness depends on correctly selected parameters: the pace, strength, and duration of the procedure, which must be individually tailored to each person.
The frequency and number of massage sessions depend on the purpose of the massage, the type of massage, the patient’s current state of health, and the specialist’s recommendations. Here are some general recommendations for different types of massage:
It is important to understand that each person is unique, and the optimal number and frequency of massage sessions may vary.
AmeriHealth teamed up with Virtua Health, South Jersey’s largest health system, to host a vibrant and impactful Senior Health Expo last week at the Virtua Health and Wellness Center in Camden, N.J. The event brought together seniors from Camden and nearby communities for a morning of free health screenings, wellness resources, and expert guidance – all aimed at improving access to preventive care and addressing health disparities. Attendees received complimentary services including:
Dr. Donna Raziano, network medical director at AmeriHealth, emphasized the importance of early detection and preventive care. “This expo is a vital opportunity to prevent problems and address health issues early,” she said. “We’re committed to helping seniors overcome barriers and gain access to quality health care.” Dr. Mary Campagnolo, medical director for value-based programs and payer contracts for the Virtua Medical Group physician network, echoed the sentiment. “It can be difficult for seniors to access the care they need to maintain their health as they age,” said Dr. Campagnolo. “This expo offered a friendly, convenient place to connect with Virtua Medical Group clinicians and staff, as well as other Virtua services. Our providers addressed gaps in each person’s care and guided them in their next steps toward their highest level of health. We are grateful for the collaboration with AmeriHealth on this event tailored to our Virtua Medical Group patients.” AmeriHealth representatives from Medicare, Health Coaches, Population Health, and Member Services were on hand to connect with attendees and offer personalized support. Nurses and community health workers from Virtua also played a key role in guiding participants through available services. About Virtua Health Virtua’s not-for-profit, academic health system is committed to helping the people of South Jersey and beyond be well, get well, and stay well. With five hospitals, satellite emergency departments, ambulatory surgery centers, and over 400 locations, Virtua delivers health services directly into the region through Hospital at Home, rehabilitation, home care, and paramedic programs. Virtua is academically affiliated with Rowan University and partners with Penn Medicine and the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia. Virtua Medical Group is a network of physicians exclusively affiliated with Virtua Health, who are located throughout the region and practice a wide range of specialties. Learn more at virtua.org. About AmeriHealth For 30 years AmeriHealth HMO, Inc and AmeriHealth Insurance Company (collectively AmeriHealth) has been dedicated to enhancing the health and well-being of the people and communities we serve. AmeriHealth gives our members peace of mind knowing we have people who care, solutions that work and next-generation technology to handle all health care needs. We offer one of the largest networks, robust health and wellness programs, and a wide range of affordable health plans to meet the unique needs of individuals, businesses, municipalities and organizations across New Jersey, Pennsylvania and select regions nationwide. We also offer administrative services to self-funded groups. Named one of the Best Places to Work for the past 12 years, AmeriHealth is headquartered in Cranbury, NJ. For more information visit amerihealth.com.
There’s no denying that the way people search for healthcare providers has changed dramatically in recent years. It’s no longer enough to rely on word-of-mouth referrals and a sign out front – these days, your clinic’s success depends on your ability to reach patients online, build trust digitally, and convert web traffic into appointments. Whether you’re running a solo chiropractic practice or managing a whole team of chiropractors, leveraging the right digital marketing strategies can transform your visibility and attract a steady flow of new patients. Here are 10 digital marketing tactics that every chiropractor should know.
Invest in a Professional Website
Your website is the digital front door to your clinic. It’s often the first impression potential patients will have of your business… so it really needs to count. A professionally designed website should be:
It should also showcase your services, clinic location, practitioner bios, and ideally, patient testimonials. A blog and FAQs section can also help educate your audience and improve your visibility on Google.
Local SEO is Non-Negotiable
When someone in your area searches for “chiropractor near me” or “back pain treatment [suburb name]”, you want your clinic to be at the top of those search results. That’s where local SEO (Search Engine Optimisation) comes into play. Focus on:
Partnering with a chiropractor SEO agency can make a huge difference by implementing proven strategies tailored to your industry and local area.
Embrace Content Marketing
Regularly publishing blog posts, articles, and educational content positions you as an authority in your field (not to mention it helps improve your rankings in search engines!). Topics could include:
The key is to provide value, build trust, and keep your clinic top-of-mind when readers decide it’s time to book an appointment.
Harness the Power of Online Reviews
Positive reviews can act as powerful social proof, especially for potential patients who may be nervous about seeing a chiropractor for the first time. Encourage satisfied patients to leave Google reviews by:
Respond to all reviews (both positive or negative) in a professional and timely manner – this not only builds credibility but also shows prospective patients that you care.
Use Paid Ads Strategically
Pay-per-click (PPC) advertising through Google Ads or social media platforms like Facebook can be highly effective for chiropractors, especially when you’re targeting specific suburbs or conditions (e.g. “sciatica treatment in Fitzroy”). Start small, test your messaging, and refine your targeting based on what works – an effective campaign can bring in immediate traffic while your SEO efforts gain momentum.
Be Active on Social Media
While not every chiropractor needs to be dancing on TikTok, maintaining an active and authentic presence on social media can help humanise your brand and engage your community. Use platforms like Facebook and Instagram to:
Live videos or quick Q&As can also be great for showcasing your knowledge and building rapport with your audience.
Prioritise Email Marketing
Email marketing isn’t just for online retailers – it can be a powerful retention tool for chiropractors as well. Use email campaigns to:
Just be sure to segment your lists (e.g., new patients vs. long-term clients) so your messages feel personalised and relevant.
Create Helpful Videos
Videos are one of the most engaging forms of content online, and they’re particularly powerful in the health space. Consider filming:
These videos can be used across YouTube, your website, and social media; helping boost your visibility and credibility all at once.
Track and Analyse Your Results
Marketing without data is like adjusting a spine in the dark. Why not use tools like Google Analytics and Meta’s Ad Manager to track what’s working (and what isn’t)? Key metrics to monitor include:
Analysing this data will help you make informed decisions and improve your marketing over time.
Stay Consistent and Committed
Digital marketing isn’t a one-and-done job; it’s a long-term investment in your clinic’s future. The most successful chiropractic practices are the ones that consistently apply these tactics and evolve their strategy based on results.
The digital space is competitive for chiropractors, but it’s also full of opportunity
With the right mix of local SEO, content creation, paid advertising and patient engagement, your chiropractic clinic can thrive both online and offline. The key is to think like your patients: Where are they searching? What information do they need? What would make them feel confident in booking an appointment? Get that right, and the rest will follow.