Even with the arrival of a vaccine in record time, the very beginning of 2021 will likely look very similar to the darkest days of 2020. On the bright side, new approaches – many propelled by the COVID-19 pandemic – continue to advance the care of vulnerable individuals facing their end of life.
A language barrier can sometimes present a difficult obstacle for physicians, patients, and their families to overcome. Throw in the fact that many different cultures have many different understandings of end-of-life care and it can be even harder to ensure these patients and families understand the truth and value behind these services.
The COVID-19 pandemic has added unexpected difficulties for those already reeling from the challenges of caring for a loved one with a serious health condition. Family caregivers are caught between ensuring their loved one is not exposed to any additional illnesses and getting them the support and care they need.
During a rare free moment this month, I was able to visit my cosmetologist for a little bit of rare pampering. As we sat together – our conversation muffled by our masks – she made a funny little quip. “Oh, ‘Rona,” she proclaimed. “Are we going to be buying you a holiday gift this year?”
Career paths are a popular back-to-school topic as millions of students around the country return to the classroom – or virtual classroom, as the COVID-19 pandemic continues.
As we enter another month of dealing with the ever-changing pandemic, new challenges continue to present themselves. One of the more frustrating aspects as a healthcare professional is keeping up with minute-by-minute changes in information.