CVS Health to Administer COVID-19 Vaccines at Over 80 Pharmacy Locations in Florida as Part of Multi-State Activation

February 23, 2021

CVS Pharmacy Begins Administering COVID-19 Vaccines. (Scott Eisen/CVS Health via AP Images)

WOONSOCKET, R.I., Feb. 23, 2021 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — In an ongoing effort to expand access to COVID-19 vaccines and help the country move forward from the pandemic, CVS Health (NYSE: CVS) today announced that it will begin to administer vaccines to eligible populations at 81 select CVS Pharmacy, CVS Pharmacy y más, and Navarro Discount Pharmacy locations across Florida. The announcement was made today during a news conference with Governor Ron DeSantis.

“I’m pleased to join CVS Health today to announce 81 additional COVID-19 vaccination sites across our state, including 67 in Miami-Dade County,” said Governor DeSantis. “These sites at select CVS Health locations will build on the progress we’ve made at existing retail sites and provide greater access to the vaccine in Florida’s communities. We look forward to the success of this partnership and will continue working to expand vaccine availability to Floridians.”

For the select CVS Health retail locations that will begin to offer COVID-19 vaccinations in Florida, appointments will become available for booking later this week as stores receive shipments of vaccine. Vaccines at participating CVS Pharmacy, CVS Pharmacy y más, and Navarro Discount Pharmacy locations in Florida will be available to individuals meeting state criteria, which will be confirmed by the state. Patients must register in advance at CVS.com or through the CVS Pharmacy app, and people without online access can contact CVS customer service: (800) 746-7287. Walk-in vaccinations without an appointment will not be provided.

Supply for the limited rollout in the state, which is sourced directly from the Federal Retail Pharmacy Program, will be approximately 62,000 total weekly doses. Participating CVS Pharmacy, CVS Pharmacy y más, and Navarro Discount Pharmacy locations are in the following Florida counties: Broward, Collier, Escambia, Flagler, Hendry, Gadsden, Hillsborough, Manatee, Miami-Dade, Palm Beach, Polk, St. Lucie, and Volusia. As more supply becomes available, the company will expand vaccine access through an increasing number of store locations in more Florida counties.

“One of our greatest strengths as a company is our presence in communities across the country, which makes us an ideal partner for administering vaccines in a safe, convenient, and inclusive manner,” said Ahmed Velez, Region Director, CVS Health. “We look forward to continuing to work with the state to defeat the virus and deliver on our shared commitment to increase access to the vaccine for underserved communities, in particular Florida’s Black and Hispanic populations.”

The 81 locations across Florida follows the successful February 12 rollout in 11 states, including California, Connecticut, Hawaii, Maryland, Massachusetts, New Jersey, New York, Rhode Island, South Carolina, Texas, and Virginia. Vaccines will eventually be available at CVS Pharmacy locations throughout the country subject to product availability, with the capacity to administer 20 – 25 million shots per month.

In addition to making COVID-19 vaccines available in local pharmacy locations, CVS Health continues to make progress in its effort to vaccinate residents and staff at more than 2,000 long-term care facilities across Florida through the Pharmacy Partnership for Long-Term Care Program. As made clear by regularly updated data CVS Health makes publicly available, the company has completed vaccines for all skilled nursing facilities, will complete second doses at assisted living and other facilities by mid-March,¹fulfilling the company’s commitment to help protect a population disproportionately impacted by the pandemic.

Multimedia assets, including b-roll and still photography from long-term care facility and in-store COVID-19 vaccinations, are available here. More information on steps CVS Health has taken to address the pandemic is available at the company’s frequently updated COVID-19 resource center.

About CVS Health
CVS Health is a different kind of health care company. We are a diversified health services company with nearly 300,000 employees united around a common purpose of helping people on their path to better health. In an increasingly connected and digital world, we are meeting people wherever they are and changing health care to meet their needs. Built on a foundation of unmatched community presence, our diversified model engages one in three Americans each year. From our innovative new services at HealthHUB® locations, to transformative programs that help manage chronic conditions, we are making health care more accessible, more affordable and simply better. Learn more about how we’re transforming health at www.cvshealth.com.

Media Contact:
Tara Burke
646-765-4971
[email protected]



¹Excludes facilities that 1) requested a later date due to a COVID-19 outbreak or other reason, 2) were rescheduled due to lack of responsiveness, or 3) requested to be added to the program after the start date or did not meet original program criteria regarding distance from CVS Pharmacy locations, but CVS Health has opted to support.

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SOURCE CVS Health

All-New 2022 Kia Carnival Multi-Purpose Vehicle Transcends

February 23, 2021

Reimagined Kia Carnival MPV pushes expected boundaries of design and innovation.

Reimagined three-row pushes expected boundaries of design and innovation

– Carnival MPV delivers a new name and new logo for the next generation of a vehicle that transcends a highly traditional segment

– Bold and boxy SUV-like design for commanding presence and penned at Kia’s California studio, birthplace of the award-winning Telluride and all-new 2021 Sorento SUVs

– More dynamic performance with new, more powerful 3.5-liter V6, delivering best-in-class 290 horsepower and 3,500 lbs. of towing capability

– New levels of utility and luxury, with multi-seating configurations, including Slide-Flex 2nd-Row seating and VIP Lounge Seating options

– Roomier and featuring more utility with best-in-class passenger room and best-in-class cargo room

– Enhanced confidence with 12 standard Advanced Driver Assistance System (ADAS)¹ features – the most comprehensive standard ADAS suite in segment – and available segment exclusive Blind-Spot View Monitor

IRVINE, Calif., Feb. 23, 2021 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — The all-new 2022 Kia Carnival Multi-Purpose Vehicle (MPV) replaces the outgoing Sedona to become a multifaceted and unexpected companion. Staking claim on the unoccupied space between SUV and family hauler, the Carnival arrives with a new name and is the first vehicle to be sold in the U.S. with Kia’s new logo proudly displayed on its sculpted hood. It pushes the boundaries on expected fronts in much the same way the Kia K5 did to redefine what a midsize sedan should be.

Penned at Kia’s California design studio, the Carnival wears a bold and boxy appearance and conveys the visual language found on the brand’s recent and highly successful line of rugged utility vehicles – Telluride, Sorento, and Seltos. Inside, the three-row seven- or eight-passenger MPV delivers a premium level of refinement, savvy technology, and flexibility. And with best-in-class passenger room and best-in-class cargo room there is enough space to accommodate people, playthings, or plywood, depending on the day’s errands…or adventures.

The Carnival is motivated by a 3.5-liter V6 engine making a best-in-class 290 horsepower. This powertrain provides up to 3,500 pounds of towing capacity for confident trailer, boat, or camper excursions. And that confidence is amplified by an expansive roster of standard Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS)¹. Together, these elements make Carnival an exceptional combination of modern design, capability, safety and luxury.

“The Kia Carnival is here to disrupt a staid segment and proves once again what is possible when conventions are shattered,” said Sean Yoon, president & CEO, Kia Motors North America, Kia Motors America. “With its SUV-like character, our new multi-purpose vehicle delivers a combination of premium design, intelligent packaging, and an abundance of innovation in safety and technology. For these reasons, the Carnival is the first vehicle to proudly wear our all-new Kia badge and is a bold signal of things to come.”

The 2022 Carnival will be offered in four trim levels: LX, EX, SX, and SX-Prestige. This all-new MPV is expected to go on sale in the second quarter of this year.

Rugged yet Refined Exterior
The exterior of the 2022 Carnival follows suit with Kia’s recent signature boxy SUV style. This strong and confident design language directly connects to the crisp lines found on other recent Kia debuts:

Kia’s modernized “tiger nose” grille gives substantial width to the face and artfully integrates the high-tech LED headlamps
Dramatic hood lines enhance the vehicle’s unexpected aggressive character
Brawny wheel arches give a sense of volume to the body from the side view
A bold cutline runs the length of the vehicle, joining front and rear lamps
Large two-tone mirrors and black/chrome rocker panel moldings contribute to the upscale look and feel
Sleek combination taillamps feature unexpected geometric shapes
Rear skid plate garnish and reflectors lend to an SUV-like presence
Robust 17- and 19-inch wheels and available gloss-black wheel design bring style and strength to Carnival’s athletic stance

Premium, Flexible and Innovative Cabin
Within, the Carnival’s sleek design elements and quality materials come together to create a refined and sophisticated interior space:

The center fascia takes on a premium image with high-gloss black surfaces
A chrome garnish runs the length of the dash to create a sense of space and openness in the forward cabin
Integrated slim metal air vents are a modern touch
Three bold interior colors bring richness to this finely crafted environment

In addition to the Carnival’s elevated interior styling, the all-new MPV offers plenty of space for 7- or 8-passenger flexibility, comfort for long road trips, or jaunts to the local lumber store:

Best-in-class 168.2 cubic feet of passenger room
Best-in-class 145.1 cubic feet of cargo room (behind first row) in LX, EX, SX trims
“Slide-Flex” seating for 8-passenger versions allow multiple configurations including a sliding second row center seat which, when in the forward-most position, allows the front passenger easy access the baby or child riding in it. This seat also converts into a functional table
Available heated and ventilated second-row VIP Lounge Seating with power controls, wing-out headrests and leg extensions in up-level 7-passenger configuration
Removable second-row seats and fold-in-floor third-row seats for best-in-class cargo room (second row seats not removable in SX-Prestige)

The Carnival also offers a roster of special and innovative features to make travel easier, safer, and more enjoyable:

Standard hands-free opening power sliding doors with Smart Key
Available hands-free Smart Power Liftgate with auto-close (EX and above)
Available Smart Key with one-button open/close functionality for rear sliding doors and liftgate (EX and above)
Rear Occupant Alert (ROA)² uses ultrasonic sensors engineered to detect child or pet movement in the second and third rows after the doors have been locked. It then can notify the driver and surrounding area by sounding the horn, illuminating the hazard lamps, and notifying the driver through mobile phone via the UVO link app (EX and above)
Safe Exit Assist (SEA)³: Audibly alerts the driver or passengers opening their door not to exit the vehicle when the system detects approaching traffic. The system can intervene to lock the rear doors when the vehicle is equipped with available Power Child Lock
Rear Passenger View Camera with zoom and night vision to keep an eye on children in the back seat, even after dark (standard on EX, SX, SX-Prestige)
Passenger Talk cabin intercom system for clear communication between passengers up front and in the rear (standard on EX, SX, SX-Prestige)
Passenger Voice Recognition allows second row occupants to control numerous in-vehicle functions through voice commands by pushing a button mounted on the ceiling (standard on EX SX, SX-Prestige)
Dual Rear Screen Entertainment Monitors with Wireless Apple and Android device screen mirroring (standard on SX, SX-Prestige)

And like all of Kia’s lineup, the Carnival offers a wide array of standard and optional technology, including:

Standard 8-inch touchscreen display with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
Wireless smartphone charging⁴
12.3-in. navigation display⁵
12.3-in. full digital instrument cluster
Multi-Bluetooth⁶ connectivity
Up to nine USB ports for all three rows and two 110-volt power inverters
Bose⁷ Premium sound system, available with 12 high-performance speakers
Bose Centerpoint technology converts stereo sources into a richer surround-sound experience
Dynamic Speed Compensation analyzes the sound source and automatically adjusts according to speed
UVO link telematics offers an array of advanced connected vehicle features, such as:
Connected Routing: A new cloud-based route calculation system that uses UVO cloud to calculate the optimal route using real-time maps, predicted upcoming traffic info based on historical information and AI to learn the preferred routes of users
Connected Weather: Provides weather information for more than 25,000 cities
Enhanced UVO voice assist feature allows voice control of the vehicle’s climate, seat and steering-wheel heating, audio system, and other functions
Connected User Profiles: Allows customers to add an additional driver profile to their vehicle. The drivers can have their individual UVO accounts linked to the vehicle and access to the remote features using the Kia Access App. The profile stores some select settings in the UVO account and can be shared with other compatible Kia vehicles
Calendar Integration: Designed to sync your Google or iCloud calendar with UVO link allowing you to receive event notification alerts while in the vehicle, and, in some cases, navigation to your event’s destination, if the address has been entered in the calendar event
Last Mile Navigation: Gives you walking directions to your selected navigation destination from up to one mile away through the Kia Access with UVO link app on your compatible smartphone
UVO & Smart Speaker Integration lets customers use Amazon-Alexa or Google-Assistant enabled smart speaker or device to remotely control some functions (such as remote start)
Advanced notifications:
Engine Idle Notification and Automatic Engine Shut Off notifies the driver via the UVO link app if the engine is left idling and, after a pre-selected time, turns off the engine
Rear Occupancy Alert can send push notification alerts via the UVO link app if movement is detected inside the vehicle
911 Connect and Roadside Assistance will automatically attempt to call 911 via the built-in UVO modem if an airbag deploys. For non-emergencies, it can connect with 24/7 roadside assist and share the vehicle’s location

Built on a Better Base
The 2022 Carnival is underpinned by the same all-new 3^rd generation “N3” platform as the capable Sorento and sporty K5. Kia’s engineers made sure it was lighter, stronger and quieter than the outgoing architecture, and highlights include:

Expanded use of hot-stamped parts and ultra-high-strength steel for increased average tensile strength and torsional stiffness that result in better driving dynamics
Greater application of sound absorbing and insulating materials to minimize road, wind, and engine noise
Aerodynamic improvements to wheels, front bumper, and mirrors to achieve better fuel economy

Powered by a Single Source
The front-wheel drive Carnival keeps things simple with a single powertrain and best-in-class horsepower that is a perfect partner for this MPV’s size and intentions:

3.5-liter V6 GDI Engine
Best in class 290 horsepower at 6,400 rpm
262 lb.-ft. torque at 5,000 rpm
8-speed automatic transmission
3500 lbs. of towing capacity

The Safety of Advanced Driver Assistance
As part of Kia’s overall commitment to safety, the Carnival MPV has a more comprehensive list of standard Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) features than any in the segment, including these standard ADAS systems” ¹:

Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist (FCA): Assists the driver when braking to help prevent a collision or lessen the effects in certain conditions if a pedestrian or vehicle is detected in front. Uses automatic braking to avoid or mitigate an impact.
Blind-Spot Avoidance Assist (BCA): Under certain conditions, can detect vehicles traveling in the next lane. When a vehicle is “seen” in the blind spot, the vehicle brakes the outer wheel under certain conditions to help return the vehicle to its lane
Rear Cross-Traffic Collision Avoidance Assist (RCCA): Helps detect most approaching cross traffic when in reverse. When approaching cross traffic is detected, the system alerts the driver and applies brakes
Parking Distance Warning-Reverse (PDW-R): Detects certain objects behind the vehicle, issuing an audible warning when an obstruction is detected. The warning tone chimes faster as the vehicle gets closer to the detected object
Lane Keeping Assist System (LKAS) with Lane Following Assist (LFA): Follows lane markings that the system detects and provides steering inputs to help maintain the vehicle in the center of the lane and includes Lane Departure Warning (LDW), which provides an audible warning when the vehicle drifts from its intended lane
High Beam Assist (HBA): Detects oncoming traffic and automatically switches off the high beam headlights then turns them on once traffic has passed
Driver Attention Warning (DAW)⁸: Senses inattentive driving patterns and sends an audible/visual warning to alert the driver

In addition, the Carnival offers several available “Kia Drive Wise” Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) for additional peace of mind:

Segment-exclusive Blind-Spot View Monitor (BVM): Projects live video view of adjacent lanes in the instrument cluster and activated via the turn signal
Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist-Cyclist (FCA – cyclist): Helps detect cyclists in front of the vehicle and uses automatic braking to avoid or mitigate an impact
Highway Driving Assist (HDA)⁹. Uses federal highway speed limit information from the navigation system and, under certain conditions, will automatically adjust speed to be within the posted speed limit and maintain distance with the vehicle detected in front
Navigation Based Smart Cruise Control-Curve (NSCC-C): Leverages the navigation system to lower the vehicle’s speed proactively before upcoming curves
Parking Collision Avoidance Assist (PCA-R): Uses rear view camera and rear ultrasonic sensors to help detect most pedestrians or nearby obstacles when the vehicle backs out of a parking spot, warning drivers with a chime and can engage brakes to prevent a collision
Surround View Monitor (SVM): Utilizes four cameras to provide a 360-degree perspective around the vehicle enhancing driver confidence in tight parking situations

Kia Motors America – about us
Headquartered in Irvine, California, Kia Motors America continues to top quality surveys and is recognized as one of the 100 Best Global Brands. Kia serves as the “Official Automotive Partner” of the NBA and offers a complete range of vehicles sold through a network of more than 750 dealers in the U.S., including cars and SUVs proudly assembled in West Point, Georgia.*

For media information, including photography, visit www.kiamedia.com. To receive custom email notifications for press releases the moment they are published, subscribe at www.kiamedia.com/us/en/newsalert.

*The Telluride, Sorento and K5 are assembled in the United States from U.S. and globally sourced parts.

¹ No system, no matter how advanced, can compensate for all driver error and/or driving conditions. Always drive safely.

² Rear Occupant Alert is not a substitute for one’s attention and may not detect all movement within the vehicle. Always check the vehicle interior when exiting the vehicle.

³ Safe Exit Assist is not a substitute for one’s attention and may not detect all objects surrounding the vehicle. Always pay attention to traffic and to the area around your vehicle when exiting the vehicle.

⁴ Charging system only works with select devices. Refer to the vehicle’s Owner’s Manual for warnings and instructions.

⁵ Distracted driving can result in the loss of vehicle control. When operating a vehicle, never use a vehicle system that takes your focus away from safe vehicle operation.

⁶ The Bluetooth word mark and logos are registered trademarks owned by Bluetooth SIG Inc., and any use of such marks by Kia is pursuant to license. A Bluetooth enabled device is required to use Bluetooth wireless technology.

⁷ Bose is a registered trademark of Bose Corporation.

⁸ Driver Attention Warning is not a substitute for safe driving and may not all instances of driver fatigue or inattentive driving practices. Failure to pay attention to travel conditions and vehicle operation could result in loss of vehicle control. Always drive safely and use caution.

⁹ Highway Driving Assist is not a substitute for safe driving, may not detect all objects around the vehicle, and only functions on certain federal highways. Always drive safely and use caution.

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SOURCE Kia Motors America

Colgate Launches The Bright Smiles Kids Awards

February 23, 2021

NEW YORK, Feb. 23, 2021 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — A toothy tune, a dental dish or a scientific smile? Anything is possible in Colgate’s Bright Smiles Kids Awards, which will unleash the creativity of young people to inspire healthy dental habits and celebrate National Children’s Dental Health Month.

Hosted by Bright Smiles, Bright Futures (BSBF)®, Colgate’s children’s oral health education initiative, the Bright Smiles Kids Awards is accepting entries from groups of children – ages 6-14 – who submit videos, or slide presentations of musical, scientific, artistic, journalistic, technology-focused, culinary or other projects highlighting the importance of oral health. Children must be enrolled in schools, clubs, after school programs or activities hosted by formal organizations. Submissions will be reviewed by local advisory panels, and grants of up to $1,000 will be awarded to the schools or organizations supporting winners in Colgate BSBF’s nine regions. A first-place national award winner and two runners-up – eligible for up to $5,000 in grants – will be determined by a live public vote at the Bright Smiles Kids Awards event presented virtually in May.

Entries should include a video or slide presentation, up to two minutes long, that showcases and describes the project. All entries require the signed support of a school or formal organization. They must also be submitted to the Colgate Bright Smiles Kids Awards website, https://bit.ly/colgatekidsawards. YouTube video URLs will also be accepted.

In announcing the award, Dr. Gillian Barclay, Colgate’s Vice President Global Public Health and Scientific Affairs, said: “Looking at the world through the eyes of children, there are limitless opportunities to inspire the change we want to see in the world. Colgate understands that good oral health is one of the building blocks to a bright future. We are enlisting children to help raise awareness, encourage their friends and families to maintain healthy teeth and gums, and pursue a Zero Cavity Future.”

The deadline for submitting entries to the Bright Smiles Kids Awards is March 19, 2021. Terms and conditions for the program and additional information are available on the awards website and via https://bit.ly/bska-rules-regulations.

About Colgate-Palmolive
Colgate-Palmolive Company is a caring, innovative growth company reimagining a healthier future for people, their pets and our planet. Focused on Oral Care, Personal Care, Home Care and Pet Nutrition and reaching more than 200 countries and territories, Colgate teams are developing and selling health and hygiene products and pet nutrition offerings essential to society through brands such as Colgate, Palmolive, elmex, meridol, Tom’s of Maine, hello, Sorriso, Speed Stick, Softsoap, Irish Spring, Protex, Sanex, Filorga, eltaMD, PCA Skin, Ajax, Axion, Fabuloso, Soupline and Suavitel, as well as Hill’s Science Diet and Hill’s Prescription Diet. Colgate seeks to deliver strong, consistent business results and superior shareholder returns and to provide Colgate people with an innovative and inclusive work environment. Colgate does this by developing and selling products globally that make people’s lives healthier and more enjoyable and by embracing its sustainability, diversity, equity and inclusion and social responsibility strategies across the organization. For more information about Colgate’s global business, its efforts to improve the oral health of children through its Bright Smiles, Bright Futures program and how the Company is building a future to smile about, visit www.colgatepalmolive.com.

About Colgate Bright Smiles, Bright Futures
Established in 1991, Colgate Bright Smiles, Bright Futures provides free oral health education, dental screenings, and treatment referrals to children ages 1-12 in underserved areas. Through its mobile dental van program, award-winning in-school oral health curriculum, and grass-roots efforts, BSBF has reached more than 1.3 million children in more than 80 countries around the world.

SOURCE Colgate-Palmolive Company

Toyota Financial Services Offers Payment Relief to Customers Affected by Texas Storms

February 23, 2021

PLANO, Texas, Feb. 22, 2021 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — Toyota Financial Services (TFS) announced it is offering payment relief options to its customers affected by the winter storms that struck Texas earlier this month. This broad outreach includes any Toyota Financial Services (TFS) or Lexus Financial Services (LFS) customer in the designated disaster areas.

Toyota Financial Services cares about the safety and well-being of its customers, and wants to help those impacted by this natural disaster. Impacted lease and finance customers residing in the affected areas may be eligible to take advantage of several payment relief options, some of which include:

extensions and lease deferred payments;
redirecting billing statements; and
arranging phone or online payments.

Customers who would like to discuss their account options are encouraged to contact TFS or LFS.

Toyota Financial Services customers may call 800-874-8822 or contact TFS via email using the Mail Center function after logging into ToyotaFinancial.com.

Lexus Financial Services customers may call 800-874-7050 or contact LFS via email using the Mail Center function after logging into LexusFinancial.com.

We extend our heartfelt thoughts to those affected by these storms.

About Toyota Financial Services 

Toyota Financial Services (TFS) is the finance and insurance brand for Toyota in the United States, offering retail auto financing and leasing through Toyota Motor Credit Corporation (TMCC) and Toyota Lease Trust. TFS also offers vehicle and payment protection products through Toyota Motor Insurance Services (TMIS). The company services Lexus dealers and customers using the Lexus Financial Services brand. As of March 31, 2020, TFS employed approximately 3,300 team members nationwide, and had assets totaling nearly $126 billion. It is part of a worldwide network of comprehensive financial services offered by Toyota Financial Services Corporation, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Toyota Motor Corporation. We announce material financial information using the investor relations section of our website (www.toyotafinancial.com) and SEC filings. We use these channels, press releases, and social media to communicate about our company, our services and other issues. While not all information we post on social media is of a material nature, some information could be material. Therefore, we encourage those interested in our company to review our posts on Twitter at www.twitter.com/toyotafinancial.

Media Contact: Derrick Brown (469) 486-9065

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SOURCE Toyota Financial Services

Leading Health and Cancer Advocacy Groups Unite to Reduce Racial Disparities in Cancer Care

February 23, 2021

NCCN Logo (C)NCCN(R) 2018. All rights reserved.

NCCN, ACS CAN, and NMQF present new polling data showing patient, caregiver and provider views of bias and suggest policy and practice changes to improve equity in access to high quality cancer care.

WASHINGTON and PLYMOUTH MEETING, Pa., Feb. 22, 2021 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — Today, the National Comprehensive Cancer Network^® (NCCN^®), American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network (ACS CAN) and the National Minority Quality Forum (NMQF) presented new ideas for overcoming inequality in oncology. The recommendations—developed by a group of 17 national experts, representing patients and advocates, caregivers, healthcare providers, researchers, and industry—directly address how medical systems in the United States often disproportionately fail minority patients, particularly those who are Black and/or Indigenous, and draws on extensive polling data from a recent poll fielded by Public Opinion Strategies on behalf of the organizations to make clear the case for urgent action.

Among the notable survey findings: 63% of African American and 67% of Latinx patients, survivors, and caregivers said they had a negative experience with their oncology care team, such as having assumptions made about them or their financial situation, or trouble getting questions answered; in contrast to 43% of white respondents who reported such experiences. As for oncologists, 2/3 of those surveyed believed that non-white patients experienced worse outcomes from cancer care but only 1/3 felt those patient populations were receiving worse care or poorer communication during care.

“The research shows disparities in outcomes that aren’t based on biology; they result from systemic inequality and bias in access and care delivery,” said Robert W. Carlson, MD, Chief Executive Officer, NCCN. “Racism exists in the United States and impacts everyone, including the medical community. One proven method for improving equity is using guideline-concordant care. We’re grateful to be able to learn from experts about what we can do right now to make sure everyone is getting the best evidence-based care possible; the process has been both humbling and inspiring. Now we’re committed to working together to make these recommendations a reality.”

“Communities of color and other medically underserved groups continue to have higher cancer rates and are less likely to be diagnosed early or receive optimal treatment compared to other groups,” said Lisa Lacasse, President of ACS CAN. “Ensuring quality clinical practices are in place and applied equitably to all patients regardless of race, ethnicity, socioeconomic status or geographic location is essential to reducing those disparities. We cannot achieve our mission of a world without cancer until we lessen the burden of this disease across all communities; these recommendations provide important means to achieve that goal.”

“We can improve cancer outcomes for communities of color and rural areas by closing gaps in screening, diagnosis, treatment and survivorship, both in clinical practice and in policy,” said Gary A. Puckrein, PhD, NMQF President and CEO. “NMQF is pleased to collaborate with NCCN and ACS CAN to develop evidence-based recommendations using real-world data that allow us to design a system that delivers high-quality cancer care to all of America’s diverse populations.”

To address the inequalities in access to cancer care, the three organizations convened the Elevating Cancer Equity Working Group, co-chaired by Shonta Chambers, MSW, EVP Health Equity Initiatives and Community Engagement, Patient Advocate Foundation, and Robert Winn, MD, Director, VCU Massey Cancer Center. Workgroup recommendations include a new Equity Report Card to help providers, payers, and accreditation entities advance equitable care delivery. The report card includes 17 measurable practice changes, such as having health systems provide and require annual implicit bias training for all employees, offer culturally and linguistically representative patient navigators or community health workers through internal hiring or contracting with community-based organizations, and offer flexible hours for screening and treatment appointments. The full list of practice recommendations are broken down into the following categories:

Community Engagement
Accessibility of Care and Social Determinants of Health
Addressing Bias in Care Delivery
Quality and Comprehensiveness of Care

The recommendations will be explained in greater detail during a keynote address at the NCCN Virtual 2021 Annual Conference online on March 19.

The organizations also created a series of policy change recommendations targeted toward:

The United States Congress
CMS and Commercial Payers
Federal Agencies
State and Local Policymakers

Policy examples include measures to remove barriers to clinical trial participation and requiring the Food and Drug Administration to consider clinical trial diversity as part of a drug approval process, providing resources to historically black colleges and universities and other minority serving institutions with the goal of fostering a more diverse health care workforce, funding public awareness campaigns around cancer prevention that are linguistically and culturally reflective of diverse audiences, and ensuring access to and reimbursement for patient navigators to assist patients with all kinds of insurance.

The groups plan a series of ongoing engagements for providers, patients and lawmakers as a means to advance this work and improve patient care. A deeper analysis of the Public Opinion Strategies data— which was captured in two surveys, one geared toward patients, survivors, and family caregivers with an oversampling to assure minority representation, and another of oncologists— will be addressed in a future, peer-reviewed article.

To learn more about the working group and next steps, visit NCCN.org/policy. Join the conversation online with the hashtag #ElevatingCancerEquity.

About ACS CAN
The American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network (ACS CAN) is making cancer a top priority for public officials and candidates at the federal, state and local levels. ACS CAN empowers advocates across the country to make their voices heard and influence evidence-based public policy change as well as legislative and regulatory solutions that will reduce the cancer burden. As the American Cancer Society’s nonprofit, nonpartisan advocacy affiliate, ACS CAN is critical to the fight for a world without cancer. For more information, visit www.fightcancer.org.

About the National Comprehensive Cancer Network
The National Comprehensive Cancer Network^® (NCCN^®) is a not-for-profit alliance of leading cancer centers devoted to patient care, research, and education. NCCN is dedicated to improving and facilitating quality, effective, efficient, and accessible cancer care so patients can live better lives. Visit NCCN.org for more information on the NCCN Clinical Practice Guidelines in Oncology (NCCN Guidelines^®) and other initiatives. Follow NCCN on Facebook @NCCNorg, Instagram @NCCNorg and Twitter @NCCN.

About the National Minority Quality Forum
The National Minority Quality Forum assists health care providers, professionals, administrators, researchers, policymakers, and community and faith-based organizations in delivering appropriate health care to minority communities. This assistance is based on providing the evidence in the form of science, research, and analysis that will lead to the effective organization and management of system resources to improve the quality and safety of health care for the entire population of the U.S., including minorities. For more information, please visit www.nmqf.org.

Media Contacts:
ACS CAN: Allison Miller, [email protected], 202-585-3241
NCCN: Rachel Darwin, [email protected], 267-622-6624
NMQF: Kelly Ann Collins, [email protected], 202-413-1187

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SOURCE National Comprehensive Cancer Network

Blue Shield of California Is Named One of the World’s Most Ethical Companies for Fifth Consecutive Year

February 23, 2021

OAKLAND, Calif., Feb. 23, 2021 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — Blue Shield of California has once again been recognized as one of the World’s Most Ethical Companies in 2021 by the Ethisphere Institute, the global leader in defining and advancing the standard of ethical business practices. It is the fifth consecutive year the nonprofit health plan has received this designation. In 2021, Ethisphere recognized 135 honorees spanning 22 countries and 47 industries.

“We are delighted to receive this distinction for a ninth time. This recognition is a testament to the fact that even during a time of extended and unprecedented stress, when character matters most, ethical behavior and personal integrity are part of our D.N.A. at Blue Shield of California,” said Hope Scott, Vice President, Deputy General Counsel, Chief Risk & Compliance Officer. “We promote ethical leadership and a commitment to compliance with the spirit and the letter of the law, ensuring that our more than 7,000 employees understand and live our values every day and are empowered to do the right thing.”

Blue Shield’s employees played a leading role in responding to major health and social issues in 2020. It also elected its first woman to chair the board of directors and achieved gender balance on the board.

Regarding the pandemic, Blue Shield leaders volunteered to help the state of California stand up a statewide testing infrastructure for Covid-19, supported its members and providers with financial assistance and is now supporting efforts to distribute the vaccine.

The company has also been actively supporting social justice issues and advocating for health policy initiatives that help all Californians.

Ethisphere’s World’s Most Ethical Companies assessment considers more than 200 questions on culture, environmental and social practices, ethics and compliance activities, governance, diversity and initiatives to support a strong value chain.

“While addressing the tough challenges of 2020, we saw companies lead – above all other institutions – on earning the trust of stakeholders through resilience and a commitment to ethics and integrity,” said Ethisphere CEO, Timothy Erblich. “Congratulations to everyone at Blue Shield of California for earning the World’s Most Ethical Companies designation.”

The full list of the 2021 World’s Most Ethical Companies can be found here.

About Blue Shield of California
Blue Shield of California strives to create a healthcare system worthy of its family and friends that is sustainably affordable. Blue Shield of California is a tax paying, nonprofit, independent member of the Blue Cross Blue Shield Association with over 4 million members, 6,800 employees and more than $20 billion in annual revenue. Founded in 1939 in San Francisco and now headquartered in Oakland, Blue Shield of California and its affiliates provide health, dental, vision, Medicaid and Medicare healthcare service plans in California. The company has contributed more than $500 million to Blue Shield of California Foundation since 2002 to have an impact on California communities.

For more news about Blue Shield of California, please visit news.blueshieldca.com.

Or follow us on LinkedIn, Twitter, or Facebook.

CONTACT:	Mark Seelig
	Blue Shield of California
	510-607-2359
	[email protected]

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SOURCE Blue Shield of California

Use the Nutrition Facts Label to Make Heart-Healthy Food Choices

February 23, 2021

SILVER SPRING, Md., Feb. 16, 2021 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — Did you know that February is American Heart Month? According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), heart disease is the leading cause of death in the United States. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration’s updated Nutrition Facts label is a tool that can help you make heart-healthy food choices.

Servings Per Container shows the total number of servings in the entire food package or container. It is common for one package of food to contain more than one serving.
Serving Size is based on the amount of food that is customarily eaten at one time and is not a recommendation of how much to eat.
Calories refers to the total number of calories in a serving of the food.
% Daily Value (%DV) shows how much of a nutrient in a serving of the food contributes to a total daily diet.
Nutrients: the Nutrition Facts label can help you learn about, compare, and monitor the nutrients in many foods in your diet.

Nutrients to get less of: saturated fat, sodium, and added sugars.
Nutrients to get more of: dietary fiber, vitamin D, calcium, iron, and potassium.

Here’s how you can use the Nutrition Facts label to help you make healthy food choices, and reduce your risk of developing high blood pressure and heart disease:

Check the serving size and the number of servings you eat or drink to determine how much of a nutrient you are consuming.
Know your calorie needs. 2,000 calories a day is used as a general guide for nutrition advice. Learn your number at https://www.myplate.gov/myplate-plan.
Use %DV to determine if a serving of the food is high or low in an individual nutrient and to compare food products (remember to make sure the serving size is the same). As a general guide:

5% DV or less of a nutrient per serving is considered low.
20% DV or more of a nutrient per serving is considered high.

Limit sodium in your diet to less than 2,300 mg per day.
Limit saturated fat in your diet to less than 10% of calories per day (e.g. 20 grams per day based on a 2,000 calorie daily diet).
Limit calories from added sugars to less than 10% of total calories per day (e.g. 200 calories or 50 grams per day of added sugars based on a 2,000 calorie daily diet).
Consume a diet rich in dietary fiber and vitamins and minerals, especially vitamin D, calcium, iron, and potassium, by choosing a variety of foods that are good sources of these nutrients since many people do not get the recommended amounts.

Visit the Nutrition Facts label Online for an interactive way to learn about the label: https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/scripts/InteractiveNutritionFactsLabel/

For more information on how to use the Nutrition Facts label to make informed food choices, visit www.fda.gov/nutritioneducation

Contact: Media: 1-301-796-4540 Consumers: 1-888-SAFEFOOD (toll-free)

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SOURCE U.S. Food and Drug Administration

(Español) American Family Insurance destina $105 millones para ayudar a cerrar brechas de equidad bajo la iniciativa “Free To Dream”

February 23, 2021

Sorry, this entry is only available in Español.

Businesses and Consumers Who Bought an Interior Molded Door Between March 1, 2014 and September 4, 2020, Could Receive $25 or More From a Class Action Settlement Totaling $19.5 Million

February 23, 2021

RICHMOND, Va., Feb. 23, 2021 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — The following notice is being jointly issued by Robins Kaplan LLP, Gustafson Gluek PLLC, and Joseph Saveri Law Firm and has been authorized by the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia, in In re: Interior Molded Doors Indirect Purchaser Antitrust Litigation (No. 3:18-cv-00850-JAG).

The lawsuit, In re: Interior Molded Doors Indirect Purchaser Antitrust Litigation, Case No. 3:18-cv-00850-JAG, pending in the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia, claims that JELD-WEN, Inc. and Masonite Corporation (“Settling Defendants”) agreed to fix the prices of Interior Molded Doors (“IMDs”) and, as a result, consumers and businesses who indirectly purchased Standalone IMDs not for resale may have paid more than they should have. Although the Settling Defendants have agreed to settle, they do not agree that they engaged in any wrongdoing or are liable or owe any money or benefits to Plaintiffs. The Court has not decided who is right.

Who is Included?

You are a Settlement Class Member if you indirectly purchased not for resale a Standalone IMD between March 1, 2014 and September 4, 2020. Purchases must have been made in, or while you were residing in an Indirect Purchaser State at the time of purchase. “Indirectly” means you bought the Standalone IMD from someone other than one of the Settling Defendants (e.g., you purchased a Standalone IMD at Home Depot, Lowe’s, or a lumber yard).

IMDs are a type of interior door made through a process of sandwiching a wood frame and hollow or solid core between two molded doorskins, rather than making the entire door from solid wood. A “Standalone Interior Molded Door” is an IMD that is not incorporated as part of a larger product (such as the purchase of a home) or service (such as the installation of the door in a home). For example, you are included if you are (a) a consumer who purchased an IMD for home installation OR (b) a business or commercial contractor that purchased an IMD to be included as a service provided to a customer or for its own use. Standalone IMDs contain patterns and do not include flush doors which have no patterns or relief.

The definitions of IMDs, Standalone IMDs, and the list of Indirect Purchaser States, among others, are available by visiting the Settlement Website www.InteriorMoldedDoorSettlement.com.

What Does the Settlement Provide?

The Settlement provides for a total Settlement Fund of $19,500,000 (“Settlement Fund”). After deduction of notice and administration expenses, attorneys’ fees, service awards to the Class Representatives, and litigation expenses, as approved by the Court (“Net Settlement Fund”), the Net Settlement Fund will be available for distribution to Settlement Class Members who timely file valid claims. It is estimated that each member of the Settlement Class who submits a valid claim will receive at least $25. Payments will be based on a number of factors, including at least the number of valid claims filed by all Settlement Class Members and the number of Standalone IMDs purchased by each Settlement Class Member.

What are My Rights and Options?

Submit a Claim: To receive a Settlement payment, you must submit a claim by going to www.InteriorMoldedDoorSettlement.com and submitting (or printing and mailing) a Claim Form. A valid Claim Form must be submitted online or postmarked by June 25, 2021.

Do Nothing: You will be included in the Settlement Class and bound by the Court’s decision, but you will not receive a payment. You will give up your rights to sue the Settling Defendants about the claims in this case.

Exclude Yourself: You can exclude yourself (“opt out”) of the Settlement by submitting an exclusion request to the Settlement Administrator that is received no later than June 2, 2021. If you do so, you will not be eligible to receive a settlement payment but you will retain the right to sue on your own regarding any claims that are part of the Settlement.

Object: You may also object to any part of this Settlement. Objections must be mailed to the Clerk of the Court and the Settlement Administrator and received no later than June 2, 2021.

Details about how to opt-out, object, and mail your Claim Form are available on the Settlement Website.

Has the Court Approved the Settlement?

No, the Court has set a hearing for July 13, 2021 at 9:00 a.m. to determine whether to approve the Settlement, Class Representative service awards not to exceed $56,000 total, attorney’s expenses not to exceed $5 million, and attorneys’ fees not to exceed 33% of the Settlement Fund. If there are objections or comments, the Court will consider them at that time. You or your lawyer may appear at the hearing at your expense. The hearing may be moved to a different date or time without additional notice. Check the Settlement Website or call 1-844-964-2884 for current information.

How Can I Get More Information?

This Notice summarizes the Settlement Agreement. You can get a copy of the Settlement Agreement, important Court documents, and more information about the settlement on www.InteriorMoldedDoorSettlement.com.

The parties’ class certification briefs and expert reports are currently under seal pending an appeal. These documents can be obtained by Settlement Class Members by contacting Settlement Class Counsel or the Settlement Administrator. The Protective Order is available on the Settlement Website. If and when these documents are unsealed, they will promptly be posted online on the Settlement Website.

You may write with questions to [email protected] or call the toll-free number, 1-844-964-2884. You should also register on the website to be directly notified of the terms of the Plan of Allocation of the Settlement Fund, how to file a claim form, and other information concerning this case.

SOURCE Robins Kaplan LLP, Gustafson Gluek PLLC, and Joseph Saveri Law Firm

Laura Lavayen’s new book El Precio del Odio, a gripping fiction about a woman’s harrowing journey through abuse and bigotry that impacted her life

February 23, 2021

NEW YORK, Feb. 23, 2021 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — The book El Precio del Odio was created by Laura Lavayen. Laura is an author who was born in Bariloche, Argentina. She then moved to Buenos Aires where she lived until she came to the United States where she still lives.

Lavayen said this about his book: “El Precio del Odio is a book that shows a lot about current life—three generations of women whose history makes us think that although women have gained rights such as voting and studying and going out to work on the streets to support their family, even so they must sometimes put up with a husband or a man who is physically stronger that she manages to dominate her in different ways. In this fiction, the grandmother, who had a domineering father who did not allow her to study because she was a woman, forced her daughter to do so but at a school that was very expensive. Far from her neighborhood where she is, she did not want to go because she did not separate from her friends. Her discontent made Angela reveal herself and when her mother bought her a dress to celebrate her sixteenth birthday, Angela left the house. She came back married later and had a month-old baby. One day she disappeared, she didn’t come back for a long time. It was never known what she did the whole time she was away. She had lost her memory and couldn’t say when or how.

This novel deals with many issues of now and others of always—the actual situation, drugs, the freedom to own a gun, attacks on schools. Everything causes a situation that has everyone worried. And we wonder what else awaits us in the future. Will we learn to act like human and civilized beings or will we continue to act like beings without feelings?”

Published by Page Publishing, Laura Lavayen’s new book El Precio del Odio unveils the prevailing prejudice against gender, status, and race that usurps the heart and mind of those affected by such.

Consumers who wish to immerse in a woman’s emotionally driven tale of pain, loss, and a search for personal redemption can purchase El Precio del Odio online at Apple iTunes, Amazon.com, Google Play, or Barnes and Noble.

For additional information or inquiries, you can contact Page Publishing, through the following number: 866-315-2708.

About Page Publishing:

Page Publishing is a traditional full-service publishing house that handles all of the intricacies involved in publishing its authors’ books, including distribution in the world’s largest retail outlets and royalty generation. Page Publishing knows that authors need to be free to create, not bogged down with complicated business issues like eBook conversion, establishing wholesale accounts, insurance, shipping, taxes, and the like. Its roster of authors can leave behind these tedious, complex, and time-consuming issues and focus on their passion: writing and creating. Learn more at www.pagepublishing.com.

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SOURCE Page Publishing

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