National HIV Testing Day signals the annual call for care providers to refocus on community testing for HIV. For many it's a day that purposefully celebrates one's decision to take the leap and get tested absent of stigma and invasive questioning. We are thankful that progress has made way for this important day. The fact remains that HIV, as with any other disease, waits for no one; therefore we can't wait for just one day of the year to come around again before we get tested.

You will hear excerpts from a recent virtual conversation sponsored by ONE Charlotte Health Alliance entitled, "Harnessing the Power of Knowing." The question and answer period will provide key facts across the spectrum to dispel myth and provide understanding about testing, care and treatment options as well as whether COVID-19 presents any additional concerns for those living with HIV.

Most all of our attention has been on COVID-19 and rightfully so. But strokes and the warning signs need to remain top of mind to ensure the best possible care and recovery. Novant Health nurse practitioner, Courtney Heard joins the conversation to lay out the facts for those that may be at risk as well as stroke survivors who could be at risk for another stroke. We also discuss how COVID-19 fits into this equation and just how much more attention we need to pay to our health and our efforts to remain COVID-negative.

May is National Stroke Awareness Month. For more information or education materials on stroke, log onto the American Stroke Association here. 

You can also check out our three-part series on stroke education to be released this month.

Stroke is and has always been a serious health concern. While many of us are doing our part to 'stay at home' during the global COVID-19 crisis, any signs or symptoms of stroke require us to head to the emergency department. Novant Health stroke navigators (Brittany Fox, Jessica Newell and Teresa Shelton) break it all down in this three-part series on stroke education.

In this final episode we hear about risk factors and prevention methods to steer clear of this health concern. You may be surprised at how easy it is to prevent a stroke.

An easy acronym for detecting the signs of stroke is BE FAST: Balance; Eyes; Face; Arm; Speech; Time! Seek care immediately if you see  or experience an of these signs!

Stroke is and has always been a serious health concern. While many of us are doing our part to 'stay at home' during the global COVID-19 crisis, any signs or symptoms of stroke require us to head to the emergency department. Novant Health stroke navigators (Brittany Fox, Jessica Newell and Teresa Shelton) break it all down in this three-part series on stroke education.

An easy acronym for detecting the signs of stroke is BE FAST: Balance; Eyes; Face; Arm; Speech; Time! Seek care immediately if you see  or experience an of these signs!

Stroke is and has always been a serious health concern. While many of us are doing our part to 'stay at home' during the global COVID-19 crisis, any signs or symptoms of stroke require us to head to the emergency department. Novant Health stroke navigators (Brittany Fox, Jessica Newell and Teresa Shelton) break it all down in this three-part series on stroke education.

An easy acronym for detecting the signs of stroke is BE FAST: Balance; Eyes; Face; Arm; Speech; Time! Seek care immediately if you see  or experience an of these signs!

Dr. Jed Schortz of Novant Health Gynecologic Surgery and Pelvic Pain to discusses how different minimally invasive gynecologic surgery is changing the surgical game surrounding fibroids, endometriosis and hysterectomies.

System physician executive, Dr. Navin Bhojwani joins us again to discuss the ways Novant Health maintains its support and education as expecting mothers plan their birthing experience. The organization has worked hard to transition to virtual education classes and facility tours to keep planning on track. 

Stick around for candid conversation about safe conception measures as many manage the long hours together, under one roof. Are we headed for a Coronavirus-inspired baby boom?

Dr. Navin Bhojwani, OBGYN and system executive for the Novant Health Women's & Children's Institute details what to expect in the delivery room and distinguishes what post-partum care looks like for healthy mothers and COVID-19 positive patients or patients under investigation. While a lot of changes have been put in place to protect our new mothers and babies, much remains the same including safe, quality care.

Physician leader for Novant Health Womens & Children's Institute, Dr. Navin Bhojwani shares into the changing landscape of COVID-19 for expecting mothers and explains the "why" behind Novant Health hospital facilities' amended visitation policy.

Did you know that your heart can age...even faster than you do? According to the CDC, three out of four adults are living with a heart age that is older than their actual age. It's important to know how to manage your health and keep your heart healthy. Dr. Sandy Charles discusses heart disease and offers small changes to our daily habits that can create a big impact! 

For more information, check out Novant Health's new campaign, Vision 2020: A new lens for a healthier future. You'll find information on risk factors for cardiovascular disease as well as a series of challenges throughout the year. The challenges are designed to be fun, manageable and sustainable with the goal of working to reduce one or more risk factors like increased physical activity, decreasing sugar intake and self care, all of which are known to have a direct impact on heart health. 

What do you have to lose? Take a risk -- this is a good one -- and join the movement towards wellness!