Executive Director's March Message

As mask guidelines change across our city, state and country, you’re probably hearing a lot about “moving from pandemic to endemic” as the reason for the change and wondering what it all means. The CDC defines Endemic as the “constant presence and/or usual prevalence of a disease or infectious agent in a population within a geographic area.” In simpler terms, think of COVID like the flu. COVID is no longer the “novel” coronavirus. It’s here to stay and we have proven preventative measures such as regular vaccinations, increased hygiene like washing hands thoroughly and masking during surges to help us adapt and live with COVID. It also means we can move forward with our lives.

Many of us made trade-offs and put off important exams or screenings to avoid COVID exposure, which is why for March, we are going to focus on Workplace Eye Wellness Month. If you have your medical insurance through SFHSS, then you also have vision benefits through VSP. Please schedule your annual eye exam. Get new glasses or contacts and make sure your eyes are healthy, because “an ounce of prevention is better than a pound of cure.” Check out this eye disease simulator to see what your vision will be like with different eye diseases.

We’ve also learned from the pandemic that a healthy immune system is your best defense against disease, and that starts with good nutrition. March is National Nutrition Month. Your health plan may have benefits like a consultation with a dietician or nutritionist to help you get and stay on track with a healthy diet.

Make March the month of scheduling missed doctor’s appointments and healthy eating. You deserve it.
 

Be well,

Abbie Yant