Author Archives: Tina Winslow

Virtual Healthcare Management A Complete Guide to Remote Care

It’s healthcare that fits into your life, not the other way around. With virtual healthcare management, getting medical care is now as simple as opening your laptop or phone. This approach uses technology to connect patients and doctors, making healthcare accessible, fast, and convenient. Whether you need help managing a chronic illness or have a quick question about your health, remote medical care offers solutions that work for everyone.

What Is Virtual Healthcare Management?

Simply put, virtual healthcare management is the use of technology to provide medical care and support without needing in-person visits. Through video calls, phone consultations, or online platforms, patients can connect with healthcare providers from wherever they are. It also includes tools like electronic health records and wearable devices that help monitor and manage your health in real time.

This approach isn’t just about convenience. It’s about making healthcare more accessible, especially for people in remote areas or those with busy schedules. By using digital healthcare, patients can receive timely care and avoid unnecessary trips to the doctor’s office.

How Remote Medical Care Works

The process starts with booking an appointment online. Using an app or website, you can choose a time that fits your schedule. This is where online health coordination comes into play. These platforms match you with the right healthcare provider based on your specific needs.

Once your appointment is set, you’ll connect with your doctor or specialist through a video call or phone consultation. During this session, you can discuss your symptoms, ask questions, and get advice. If needed, your doctor might prescribe medication or recommend follow-up appointments. Some systems even allow you to track your health using devices that send updates directly to your healthcare provider. This ongoing connection ensures that your care is continuous and effective.

Why Virtual Healthcare Management Is Important

One of the biggest reasons people are turning to virtual healthcare management is convenience. You can see a doctor without leaving your home, saving time and effort. It’s also more affordable because you don’t have to worry about travel costs or long waiting times. For those living in rural areas, remote medical care makes it possible to access specialists they might not otherwise reach.

Another advantage is flexibility. Whether you’re at home, at work, or even traveling, you can get the medical support you need. Many patients find that discussing their health from a familiar environment makes the process less stressful. Virtual healthcare also makes it easier to manage ongoing conditions since you can have regular check-ins with your doctor.

The Role of Technology in Digital Healthcare

Technology plays a huge role in making digital healthcare possible. Platforms for video consultations connect patients and doctors in real-time. Wearable devices, like fitness trackers or heart rate monitors, provide valuable data that helps doctors keep an eye on your health between visits. Electronic health records store your medical history securely, ensuring that all your information is easily accessible to your healthcare team.

Artificial intelligence is also becoming a key player in virtual healthcare. AI tools can analyze health trends, predict potential risks, and even suggest preventive steps. These advancements make online health coordination even more efficient, ensuring patients get the care they need when they need it.

The Future of Remote Medical Care

The future of healthcare is exciting, and remote medical care is at the center of it all. Imagine having a wearable device that alerts your doctor the moment something unusual happens with your health. Or systems that can offer personalized advice based on your medical history and daily habits. As technology continues to evolve, virtual healthcare will become even more effective and tailored to individual needs.

Eventually, virtual and traditional healthcare will work together seamlessly. This means you’ll have access to a complete system that combines the best of both worlds, ensuring you get the right care in the right way.

Why You Should Try Virtual Healthcare Management

Choosing virtual healthcare management is a step toward smarter, more convenient healthcare. It’s designed to make your life easier while giving you the support you need to stay healthy. Whether you’re new to remote medical care or have already experienced its benefits, it’s clear that this approach is here to stay. With options like online health coordination and innovative digital healthcare tools, staying on top of your health has never been this simple. Explore your options today and see how virtual care can transform your healthcare experience.

Let PyxisCare be your partner in creating a healthcare plan that drives success and promotes wellness at every level.

Julie Buschman: Senior Fiduciary Officer

““The greatest joy I receive is working with family members as they navigate making critical decisions during the planning process that will impact their legacy story.”

Julie Ann Buschman
Senior Fiduciary Officer

PyxisCare Management is proud to work with expert service providers and advisors on a daily basis to ensure that a range of client needs are met. Julie Ann Buschman, a Senior Fiduciary Officer at Northern Trust, is an trust officer who brings a unique perspective to serving the complex needs of trust clients while navigating a complex health journey. Learn more about how Julie’s personal journey has impacted her perspective and depth of care.

Why is establishing trust crucial when working with families on legacy planning?

In my role as a fiduciary advisor for almost 38 years, I learned that without gaining a personal connection of trust in which a client will truly share their deepest personal goals and fears, we can’t do our best for them. It takes time and personal investment to gain this level of trust. It also means we have to be vulnerable ourselves.

How has your cancer journey influenced your approach to working with clients?

Trust is a two way relationship. After receiving my own cancer diagnosis 16 years ago, one in which I couldn’t hide, I learned that my conversations with clients naturally became more open and deeper. Navigating a health crisis while working significant hours is more than a bit of a challenge. I didn’t want to fail the clients I served during this time, in fact serving them gave me the distraction I needed to avoid focusing on my own situation. I remember confirming meetings with clients prior to traveling and sharing with them that I had a different “look”, but no worries, everything was fine. I didn’t talk about it, I simply did what I had to each day, all while working through stage 4 cancer treatment. In some ways, not comprehending the challenge I had ahead of me was helpful. I am certain I couldn’t repeat this approach today. 

How do you guide clients and families through emotionally challenging decisions?

In the past decade, I found my voice and do not avoid what may be considered awkward, uncomfortable conversations when working with the families I serve. I stared at mortality and know the questions that need to be asked to make sure that our advice works through all of life’s events. Helping someone face the fears of tragic events, mortality, family dynamics and taking steps to get planning into place gives me joy and purpose. When appropriate, I don’t hide the fact that I continue my own cancer treatment journey. Each morning, while I don’t dwell on it, I can’t deny I don’t think about it. I am sure it influences my renewed confidence and determination for each day to have purpose and not shy away from difficult situations. I think about what may be bad news as simply disappointing and immediately look for a different path to redirect results.

How has your personal health journey shaped your views on the balance between health and wealth?

We all hear that our health is everything. At the end of the day, wealth may provide for improved well being, but it can’t cure a terminal disease or eliminate terrible things that may happen by simply stepping out the door each day. Although, not perfect, it is incredibly important to find a personal outlet of time for mental and physical health care. I always like the flight attendant’s instructions, that we have to put on our own oxygen mask first, before we help the person next to us. Eliminating stress and attention to good health is different for everyone and it continues to change for all of us. Regardless, find your outlet and make it a priority more than just once in a while. Treat it like a critical client meeting that can’t be cancelled.

What lies ahead for you in 2025? 

I am looking forward to a fresh schedule in 2025. While I do not have a New Year’s resolution personality, I do think it is a great time to refresh and prioritize differently. I am challenging myself to block time to be outside, certainly walk more as I will train for the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society Team in Training Hike fundraiser in March and simply find joy in simple pleasures and purpose. We all need to punch the easy button once in a while.

Healthcare Planning Goals for a Healthy 2025

Make 2025 your healthiest year yet with a healthcare plan that fits your needs and goals. As we enter the new year, setting clear healthcare planning and medical management goals can make a significant difference in both personal health and organizational well-being. Whether you’re an individual looking to prioritize wellness or a business aiming to improve employee health outcomes, having a comprehensive medical planning strategy is essential. By focusing on prevention, utilizing resources effectively, and tailoring solutions, you can set the stage for a healthier and more efficient future.

Focus on Preventive Care

One of the most effective ways to achieve your healthcare planning and medical management goals for a healthy 2025 is to emphasize preventive care. Regular check-ups, screenings, and vaccinations can catch potential health issues early, saving time, money, and stress. For individuals, this includes scheduling annual physicals, staying up to date with recommended vaccinations, and managing chronic conditions proactively.

For businesses and health organizations, encouraging preventive care through wellness programs, access to telemedicine, and employee health screenings is a practical approach. Prevention not only boosts overall health outcomes but also reduces long-term healthcare expenses. Simple strategies, like setting reminders for routine check-ups or incorporating them into an annual health calendar, can make preventive care a seamless part of your medical planning efforts.

Optimize Health Benefits

Another essential step in achieving your healthcare planning goals is optimizing health benefits. For individuals, this means understanding what your insurance covers and making informed choices about your care. For businesses, it’s about ensuring your health plans are competitive, comprehensive, and tailored to employee needs.

Start by reviewing your existing plans to identify areas for improvement. Are your employees or team members fully utilizing the benefits available to them? Is there clarity about how to access wellness resources? By conducting regular assessments, businesses and health organizations can keep healthcare plans relevant and valuable.

Embrace Digital Health Solutions

In today’s technology-driven world, digital health solutions are revolutionizing medical planning. Telemedicine, wearable health devices, and virtual health coaching make care more accessible while reducing barriers like time and distance. Businesses offering access to digital tools can boost employee satisfaction and cultivate a culture of wellness.

For individuals, apps that track fitness, nutrition, or mental health can help maintain personal wellness goals. These tools are easy to use and provide real-time insights, making healthcare planning more actionable and engaging.

Plan for Long-Term Care Needs

Long-term care is often overlooked in healthcare planning, but it’s crucial for a healthy future. Whether you’re planning for yourself or a loved one, understanding long-term care options and costs can help avoid surprises later. Businesses can also educate employees on financial planning for healthcare, including resources like Health Savings Accounts (HSAs).

Partner with Experts for Better Outcomes

Navigating the complexities of healthcare planning and medical management goals can be challenging, but you don’t have to go it alone. At PyxisCare, our team of industry veterans and experts reviews available benefits and next steps to help you create effective health plans. By partnering with a trusted expert, you can achieve better health outcomes for employees and a stronger bottom line for your organization.

A strategic healthcare plan is more than just a checklist—it’s a long-term investment in well-being. By focusing on preventive care, optimizing health benefits, leveraging digital tools, and planning for the future, you can align your healthcare planning and medical planning goals for a healthy 2025. Take the first step today to ensure you’re ready for the year ahead.

Let PyxisCare be your partner in creating a healthcare plan that drives success and promotes wellness at every level.

Managing Family Healthcare During the Holiday Season

Amidst the holiday shopping spree, don’t forget your family’s health needs. The holidays are full of excitement, but they can also bring challenges when it comes to keeping your family healthy. Managing family healthcare during the holiday season means staying prepared for anything—from everyday care to unexpected health concerns. With some thoughtful planning and the right support, you can enjoy the holidays while ensuring everyone stays safe and well.

Why the Holidays Can Be Tricky for Healthcare

The holiday season can make it hard to stick to regular routines. Travel plans, parties, and colder weather all add new layers to family healthcare management. For example, holiday gatherings often bring more exposure to seasonal illnesses like colds or the flu. If you’re caring for someone with a chronic illness or disability, it can be even tougher to balance their needs with the demands of holiday activities.

These challenges can feel overwhelming, but there’s good news. PyxisCare offers support that can make a real difference. Whether you need help with medical coordination, family caregiving, or creating a plan for emergencies, they’re here to take some of the stress off your shoulders.

Start with a Plan

Planning ahead is the best way to avoid stress. First, make sure you have all the basics ready, like medications, medical supplies, and updated medical records. It’s also smart to know where the nearest healthcare facilities are if you’re traveling. If someone in your family has a chronic illness, talking to their doctor ahead of time about potential health concerns can save a lot of worry.

Small steps like these can make a big difference. When you’re prepared, you’ll be able to handle unexpected situations with confidence. Holiday healthcare planning might feel like just another thing on your to-do list, but it can give you peace of mind throughout the season.

Staying Safe at Gatherings

Holiday parties are a time to enjoy good food and company, but they can also come with risks. For instance, food allergies can be a concern at potlucks or shared meals. A quick chat about ingredients before serving food can help avoid allergic reactions.

Weather is another factor to keep in mind. Slippery sidewalks and driveways can be hazardous, especially for older family members. Taking a moment to clear walkways or provide extra lighting can help everyone feel safer and more comfortable.

Caring for Your Loved Ones

If you’re a family caregiver, the holidays can be especially tough. Juggling caregiving responsibilities and holiday preparations can leave you feeling stretched thin. That’s where PyxisCare can help. Their services include personalized care plans and medical coordination, which means you don’t have to manage everything on your own. They’ll help make sure your loved ones get the care they need so you can enjoy the holidays, too.

Handling the Unexpected

Even with careful planning, emergencies can still happen. Knowing the signs of serious issues, like trouble breathing or sudden pain, is important. Acting quickly and staying calm can make all the difference. Having a trusted service like PyxisCare in your corner means you’ll always have expert support when it matters most.

Managing family healthcare during the holiday season doesn’t have to be stressful. By planning ahead, staying mindful of potential risks, and using professional support when you need it, you can focus on what the holidays are really about—spending time with the people you love. With PyxisCare’s help, you can create a season that’s not just joyful, but also safe and healthy for everyone.

The Comprehensive Guide to Managing Holiday Health Emergencies

The holidays are a time for joy and connection, but unexpected health problems can quickly turn celebrations into stressful situations. From minor injuries to more serious medical issues, holiday health emergencies can happen when we least expect them. With a little preparation and the right support, you can manage these challenges while keeping your family safe and your holidays on track.

Understanding Holiday Health Risks

During the holiday season, we’re exposed to situations that can increase health risks. Cold weather, festive gatherings, and busy schedules can sometimes lead to unexpected medical problems. For example, someone might catch the flu at a family dinner, or an elderly relative could slip on icy walkways. Knowing what could go wrong is the first step to staying ready.

If you’re caring for a loved one with a chronic illness or disability, the holidays can bring extra challenges. Between managing their regular medical care and planning for holiday activities, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. This is where professional support, like PyxisCare’s medical crisis management services, can help ease the burden and keep everyone healthy and safe.

How to Stay Prepared for Medical Emergencies

Preparation is key to handling holiday health emergencies. Start by making sure you have the basics covered. Keep a well-stocked first aid kit, any needed medications, and important medical records easily accessible. If someone in your family has a chronic condition, talk with their doctor about potential health triggers during the holidays and how to avoid them.

It’s also important to plan ahead for any medical care you might need. Research nearby urgent care centers and hospitals before traveling. Make a list of emergency contact numbers, including doctors and family members. These simple steps can help you act quickly if a health issue arises.

During holiday gatherings, pay attention to potential risks. Food allergies, for example, are common and can lead to emergencies if not managed properly. Talk to your guests about ingredients in shared dishes or prepare allergy-friendly options. For older adults, make sure walkways are clear and safe to prevent falls. Small adjustments like these can help you avoid many common holiday health problems.

Caring for Loved Ones with Complex Medical Needs

If you’re taking care of someone with a chronic illness or disability, the holidays can feel even more overwhelming. Routine care needs don’t stop just because it’s the holiday season, and adding festive activities to the mix can stretch your time and energy thin.

This is where PyxisCare can make a difference. We offer personalized health management plans, helping families balance holiday celebrations with ongoing care. Our services cover everything from regular health maintenance to urgent medical crisis management, so you can enjoy the season without compromising your loved one’s care.

Responding to Health Emergencies

Despite your best efforts, emergencies can still happen. If someone gets sick or injured, staying calm is the most important thing you can do. Knowing basic first aid and recognizing serious symptoms, like chest pain or difficulty breathing, can help you respond quickly. Don’t hesitate to seek professional care when needed, and always keep emergency contact information handy.

The holidays are a time to cherish, and with the right planning, you can handle holiday health emergencies without letting them overshadow your celebrations. Whether it’s preparing for the unexpected or leaning on PyxisCare’s expert support, taking proactive steps will give you peace of mind and more time to focus on what matters most—your loved ones.

By staying prepared and seeking help when needed, you can navigate holiday health emergencies confidently and ensure a safe and joyful season for everyone.

Mindy’s Thanksgiving Letter

Happy Thanksgiving Friends,

The PyxisCare team spends the month of November celebrating all that we’re thankful for. Our loyal clients, collaborators, referral network and friends continue to serve as inspiration for our work, and are responsible for the success of our services.

Caregiving is not a simple task; it requires compassion, kindness, expertise and a drive to help people that outweighs the emotional and physical toll.  We are grateful for the millions of family and friends who provide caregiving to loved ones, especially those who are making difficult end of life decisions or who are experiencing life changes due to medical conditions.

My team is grateful to corporate and small business leaders who make smart and compassionate decisions for their employees everyday, ensuring they have the best in benefits and wellness support. And we thank the many advisors who work closely with PyxisCare to ensure holistic solutions for our shared clients.

I am especially humbled to work with the finest team of nurses, advocates, client service specialists and benefits experts in the business of care coordination and caregiving.

We are honored to work with you, and for you. Best wishes for a restful holiday.

Happy Thanksgiving!

 

Mindy Jones

Founding Principal, PyxisCare Management

Chris Klemme: Senior Vice President, Trust Officer

“We owe the highest duty of care to our clients.”

Chris Klemme
Senior Vice President/Trust Officer

PyxisCare Management is proud to work with other expert service providers on a daily basis to ensure that a range of client needs are met. Chris Klemme, a Senior Vice President and Trust Officer at American National Bank and Trust Co., is an executive trust officer who brings a wealth of knowledge and a law degree to serving the complex needs of trust clients. Learn more about how the trust process works for clients in need of wholistic care coordination.

What do you think is most valuable for a trust officer from an initial assessment?

A trust officer needs to have a good understanding of the full range of services available to their clients that are both helpful and pragmatic, based upon the specific medical or mental condition of the client.

What are things everyone should know about working with a trust officer?

We are fiduciaries – which means we owe the highest duty of care to our clients.   We are also heavily regulated – our departments typically go through a third-party audit and a government examination every year.   Documentation is the key to a good results.   The documentation provides justification for the money we are expending, or are about to spend; it is also extremely helpful so that any team member in the trust department can review monthly reports to quickly get up to speed on what the clients’ needs have been in the recent past.

How can trust officers utilize care management on behalf of their beneficiaries? 

We receive most of our referrals from attorneys. Many times, they expect a bank employee to serve  almost as a legal guardian for their clients, when we are often not equipped to do so.  Retaining case management partners, like the Nurse Client Advocates at PyxisCare Management, provides the corporate fiduciary with additional eyes and ears on a clients’  situation. Because of their expertise, there have been several times over the years that the case manager for a client has apprised us of needs that the family, for whatever reason, has not.

Why do trust officers need initial assessments of beneficiaries?   

Many times, especially by the time a client arrives to us, it has been several months, if not a year or more, since there has been an updated assessment. This is especially important in brain trauma cases, where most specialists say there is a two-year window after the injury for maximum improvement to occur. Trust professionals need an accurate baseline of our client’s medical circumstances at the time the relationship begins, so we can provide the funds for the most critical needs of the client.

What is the biggest benefit of care coordination to your clients? 

Having additional qualified professionals who focus on our clients, means that we are always updated on new needs that can be addressed quickly and compassionately.  These are items that most bank-trained professionals are not going to pick up, even making house calls. For instance, care coordination professionals might identify the client’s need for therapy or counseling more quickly than others. In some cases, 24/7 caregiving is necessary, and it’s always important to ensure that there is consistent assessment of medical, financial and emotional health.

PyxisCare Education: Mary N

“Trusting PyxisCare to guide us through getting our son the educational
support he needed was the best decision we ever made. We finally felt like
our son wasn’t being seen for the diagnosis he has, but for who he has the
potential to become.” 
—Mary N.    (working mother of autistic child)

Every parent wants their children to be happy and to feel loved.

As parents, we want those things for our child too, but as our son grew up, our wants and desires for him also grew and changed. At the age of three James was diagnosed with Autism and a speech impairment. With the diagnosis we jumped into early intervention strategies, participating in therapy through the early childhood center and through our public school district as well.

At age five, James transitioned into kindergarten communicating with the support of an AAC (augmentative and alternative) device. He knew his colors and shapes; he knew his numbers and letters as well. We thought he was ready. It wasn’t long into his kindergarten year that we learned that the school district did not feel the same.

This was the first time since the diagnosis that we felt that our son wasn’t “being seen” and that the system we had worked beside for so long, was now working against us. We turned to friends and parents that had worked through similar experiences and they led us to seek the support of an advocate.

Trusting PyxisCare to guide us through getting James the educational support he needed was the best decision we have ever made. PyxisCare walked us through understanding his FIE (full individual and initial valuation) and his IEP (individual education plan), breaking down each section and explaining what it meant in respect to his potential growth, as well as his participation across different settings within the school.

PyxisCare guided us through a process to ensure our “wants” for him came to fruition. They attend ARD (admission, review and dismissal) meetings to support us, and they did a wonderful job collaborating with teachers and administrators to revise goals and schedules to explicitly meet his needs. We finally felt like James wasn’t being seen for the diagnosis he has, but for who he has the potential to become.

PyxisCare has worked with us to develop a meaningful relationship with the staff at his school. Every day we drop him off, we know James is going to be loved and included, and when he comes home – we know he will be genuinely happy.

Back To School Headaches & Heartaches

At my house, we’ve just survived back-to-school season – the drama of haircuts, new uniforms neatly pressed, the books, the backpacks and the return to early mornings, after school activities and late-night studying. These few weeks have been a headache of summer homework and finding the right school supplies.  And now we have two teens who are studiously – if not happily – back to school.

However, my BTS headache pales in comparison to the BTS heartache that many of my friends and clients experience as they near the BTS season.

Because at my office, some of our nurse client advocates (NCAs) have been working closely with clients to ensure their children’s special needs are being met, which can be a quagmire of endless paperwork, a battery of expensive diagnostic testing, documentation and meetings with administrators to prepare for the year ahead.

Our school systems have done an admirable job of ensuring that every child’s needs are met to the best of their ability. However, accessing those services and ensuring the complex range of needs varying from neurodiversity and autism to mental illness to the physical limitations of blindness, lack of mobility and more – is often daunting. And because it’s daunting and time consuming, it can be overwhelming to those parents and guardians who navigate these muddied processes that sometimes require local, state and federal services to cooperate.

If you’ve ever had to oversee a child’s 504 plan is being implemented to ensure they’re receiving all necessary accommodations; or conference with teachers and administrators to ensure everyone understands the services a child is set to receive within their IEP (individual education plan), then you know how exhausting and tricky the process can be. All we ever want is to advocate for the best educational experience for our loved ones, and at the minimum, voice that they deserve the same physical, social and academic opportunities as their peers.

This year has been an unusually busy one with clients requesting help with special needs advocacy.  While many of us are trained in navigating this particular need, our resident experts are true leaders in coordinating the timing and strategy for each unique challenge.

My goal this year is to appreciate the relative normalcy of my back to school woes and to continue to work hard to ensure that every kid gets a chance to participate, learn and develop into their very best.

Welcome back to school!

Just in Time: From Tipping Point to Turning Point

Two of the most common words that we hear in client interviews and as we begin engagements with individuals and companies are: TIPPING POINT.

As in….“We had passed a tipping point for my mother and we didn’t know it because we were so overwhelmed with our day to day.”

“I knew we were approaching a tipping point, but I felt like we couldn’t avoid a crisis.”

“Our company hit a tipping point where many of us were balancing caregiving duties with full time jobs and I could see the wear and tear on our team.”

You tend to HIT a tipping point. Usually “tipping points” like these, force decision-making
because action has to be taken. PyxisCare shines in this area—we take pride in intervening and mitigating crisis as it happens and making a difference immediately.  Often clients come to us needed immediate help.

However, we DO have clients who are focused solely on wellness and prevention strategies to ensure they avoid costly mistakes down the road. Our vision is that one day, health and wellness transition into a proactive space where there is more planning and preparation for the challenges that people face…BEFORE you hit a dangerous tipping point.

Until then, we at PyxisCare are focused on turning tipping points into TURNING POINTS.
And we have a proprietary process that creates that turning point for our clients. It’s our
thorough custom assessment that kicks off most engagements.

I’ve been passionate about ensuring the “whole person view” is used when we are working with individuals; our assessment uses a multi-factor approach. Your health and sustainable wellness is a combination of many factors, chiefly: medical, psychosocial, environmental, legal and financial. These key drivers define your capacity to progress in the right direction and stay the course with treatment, prevention and intervention.

A client recently said: “When I look back on that time in my mother’s life, I see the IA (initial assessment) and care plan as the turning point to get her back on the road to self- sufficiency.”

I think often about this statement, and dozens of others like it, when I think about what we do and what makes PyxisCare special. That particular person used the resulting care plan as a road map back to health for her loved one.

Some clients even go back and do an assessment if we onboarded as a result of a crisis. They want that full spectrum view of their needs without the pressure of an urgent issue needing resolution. One client said the assessment put him “out of his comfort zone” but also mentioned it was the most valuable part of the service because it allowed him to prioritize some unresolved safety issues in his environment.

This feedback and other customer-centric data helps us to be better partners. To provide a consistently improved experience for clients. To proactively identify pain points and step in to help.

I’m heartened to know that we are offering something unique and valuable that truly allows people to reach their TURNING POINT.