HOUSTON
Oncology Research pg.3
Mental Health pg.5
Healthy Heart pg.6
The Framework pg.8
Financial Forecast pg.12
AI in Behavioral Health: Regulation or De-Regulation in 2025?
By Jean Marie R. Pechette, J.D.
Joelle M. Wilson, J.D. Polsinelli, PC
Artificialintelligence (AI) continues to evolve as a transformative force in health care delivery, and particularly in the field of behavioral health, from clinical decision support to patient engagement tools and personalized treatment plans. However, with innovation comes a complex regulatory landscape.
Federal Regulatory Landscape:
The Behavioral Health Context. There is currently no binding federal law that regulates the development and use of AI. The unique challenges of AI in behavioral health — such as trust in AI technology, patient privacy, equitable access, need for transparency, and therapeutic efficacy — highlight critical gaps in the regulatory framework. In behavioral health, these federal priorities could accelerate the adoption of AI tools aimed at improving patient outcomes.
Insights from the Congressional Research Service.
W hile we do not anticipate federal legislation with regard to AI in the immediate future, there is consensus that AI needs to be developed and deployed safely. To that end, the Congressional Research Service (CRS) recently issued a report on AI in Healthcare which identified the following areas of concern, including those particularly relevant for behavioral health providers:
• Transparency and Accountability. There is a growing push to ensure AI systems used in clinical settings are explainable and their decision-making processes transparent.
• Data Privacy and Security. Developers and providers should expect heightened scrutiny around privacy standards.
• Bias and Equity. AI tools may inadvertently perpetuate or amplify biases due to biased data or algorithmic design. Regulators are increasingly focused on ensuring AI systems are equitable and clinically validated across diverse demographics.
• Liability and Accountability. Legal uncertainty surrounding liability when AI tools cause harm or errors may continue to foster reluctance to adopt such technologies.
W hile the CRS highlights challenges with the use of AI in health care settings and provides Congress with policy recommendations, we anticipate that federal action will continue to primarily come through agency guidance, reports, and requests for information rather than sweeping legislative or regulatory changes.
State-Level Developments:
Behavioral
Health in Focus.
W hile federal regulation lags, states are taking the lead in AI regulation – though with varying levels of activity and focus. Several states are introducing or have passed legislation to regulate the development, deployment, and use of AI tools. These bills often include provisions for transparency, data privacy, algorithmic accountability, and consumer protection. In the behavioral health space, state laws could create compliance hurdles for providers utilizing AI-driven solutions. For instance, a California bill imposes significant disclosure requirements on any health facility, clinic, physician’s office or other group practice utilizing generative AI for clinical-based communications and Colorado recently passed a bill which requires developers and deployers of certain AI tools to use reasonable care to protect consumers from known or foreseeable risks related to algorithmic discrimination. These developments highlight the broader trend of integrating AI into health care while addressing key concerns
Oncology Research
Never Too Young: What Adults Under 50 Need to Know About Colorectal Cancer
By Victor H. Barnica, M.D., FACS, FASCRS, Texas Colon & Rectal Specialists
Though we often picture youthhood as a time of mostly carefree, exuberant living, unexpected health concerns can cloud that ideal vision. Recent research indicates that colorectal cancer — among other cancers — is on the rise in younger adults, an emerging and troubling trend for oncologists. In the past several decades, cases of colorectal cancer in those under the age of 50 have steadily increased. While the direct cause of this increase varies by patient, one thing is clear –– cancer knows no age restrictions.
That’s why it’s crucial for adults of all ages to become more informed about their colorectal health and learn to recognize signs and symptoms. The good news is that colorectal cancer death rates continue to drop due to advancements in screening, prevention, and treatment. The questions and answers below can help you better understand how to take control of your health.
Am I at risk?
Age is just one of many risk factors related to colorectal cancer. It’s vital for people under the age of 50 to become familiar with the other risk factors. Diets that contain large amounts of red and processed meats can increase risk, and so can excess weight or conditions like type 2 diabetes. People with a history of polyps or inflammatory bowel disease may also be at higher risk. Risk is also tied to family history or inherited syndromes, such as Lynch
syndrome.
When should I get screened?
Although the cause remains unclear, colorectal cancer cases are rising among people under the age of 50. This increasing rate led to an update in colorectal cancer screening guidelines in the U.S., which now recommend men and women with an average risk begin regular screenings at age 45, instead of 50. Those with an increased risk should consult their physician about whether to begin screenings earlier than age 45 and also check whether insurance will cover the screening.
What signs and symptoms should I watch for?
Adults of all ages are encouraged to pay close attention to the signs and symptoms of colorectal cancer –– and so should their doctors. While colorectal cancer often doesn’t present symptoms until later stages, common signs may include:
• Abnormal bowel habits
• Vomiting, diarrhea, constipation
• Cramping or stomach discomfort
• Frequent gas or feeling bloated
Popular Diabetes/Weight-Loss Drugs Show Additional Benefit
Diabetes Patients with Related Chronic Kidney Disease Have Better Long-Term Outcomes On GLP1-RA Therapies, UTSW Researchers Find
Awell-known class of drugs used to manage Type 2 diabetes and control weight could offer hope for patients who also struggle with related chronic kidney disease (CKD), researchers at UT Southwestern Medical Center found.
The medications, known as glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP1-RAs), include semaglutides, liraglutides, dulaglutides, and more, available under a variety of brand names. UTSW researchers and their colleagues found that these drugs provide three significant benefits for patients with diabetes-related kidney disease compared with another common class of medications known as dipeptidyl peptidase-4 inhibitors (DPP4is): reducing hospitalization, all-cause mortality, and kidney disease
progression.
“ The benefits of GLP1-RA therapy for blood glucose management are well known, but our research provides much-needed evidence in support of the renal-protective effect of GLP1-RAs in high-risk patients with moderate to advanced chronic kidney disease,” said first author Shuyao Zhang, M.D., Assistant Professor of Internal Medicine in the Division of Endocrinology at UT Southwestern. Dr. Zhang worked under the mentorship of co-senior authors Ildiko Lingvay, M.D., M.P.H., M.S.C.S., Professor of Internal Medicine in the Division of Endocrinology and in the Peter O’Donnell Jr. School of Public Health, and Ishak A. Mansi, M.D., Professor of Internal Medicine at the University of Central Florida College of Medicine.
SHOULDN’T YOU BENEFIT
The study, published in Nature Communications, was designed to emulate a clinical trial, using data from a nationwide cohort of patients at Veterans Health Administration hospitals and clinics. Researchers analyzed the medical records of 64,705 veterans with diabetes and CKD –divided into propensity-matched pairs of people who initiated GLP1-RA or DPP4i, to ensure there was no significant difference in baseline
characteristics between the two groups. Propensity-matched pairs include one individual from a treatment group and one from a control group who have a high probability of receiving the same treatment based on their symptoms.
Over the study period of almost two years, the data showed significant reductions in acute health care utilization (10% lower); death from any
Shuyao Zhang, M.D., (left) is Assistant Professor of Internal Medicine in the Division of Endocrinology at UT Southwestern. Ildiko Lingvay, M.D., M.P.H., M.S.C.S., is Professor of Internal Medicine in the Division of Endocrinology and in the Peter O’Donnell Jr. School of Public Health.
Mental Health Ichi Go, Ichi E Embracing Ichi-go Ichi-e: The Art of Cherishing Every Moment
IBy Michael Jones, Ph.D.
n our fast-paced world, it’s easy to rush through life without truly experiencing it. We often find ourselves preoccupied with past regrets or future anxieties, rarely pausing to appreciate the present moment. This is where the Japanese concept of Ichi-go Ichi-e offers profound wisdom. Translated as “one time, one meeting,” Ichi-go Ichi-e reminds us that each encounter and experience is unique and will never be repeated. It invites us to cherish every moment as if it were our last.
Ichi-go Ichi-e teaches us to fully engage with the present, embracing it with gratitude and mindfulness.
This concept is deeply rooted in Japanese culture, particularly in the tea ceremony, where every detail is carefully considered and appreciated. The tea ceremony is more than just a ritual; it is a practice of presence and appreciation, a celebration of the here and now.
Imagine yourself attending a traditional tea ceremony. As you enter the tranquil space, you are greeted with warmth and respect. Every movement, from the way the tea is prepared to the way it is served, is performed with deliberate care. The serene environment and meticulous process draw you into the present moment, encouraging you to leave behind the chaos of the outside world and focus solely on the experience at hand.
T he beauty of Ichi-go Ichi-e lies in its simplicity and universality. It can be applied to all aspects of life, encouraging us to appreciate the ordinary moments that we often take
for granted. Whether it’s a quiet walk in nature, a meaningful conversation with a friend, or a simple meal with loved ones, Ichi-go Ichi-e teaches us to approach these experiences with a sense of wonder and gratitude.
In our daily lives, practicing Ichi-go Ichi-e can significantly enhance our well-being. Here are a few ways to embrace this beautiful concept:
1. Practice Mindfulness:
• Mindfulness is the foundation of Ichi-go Ichi-e. It involves being fully present and engaged in whatever you are doing, without
distraction or judgment. Take a few moments each day to practice mindfulness, whether through meditation, deep breathing, or simply paying attention to your surroundings.
2. Cherish Relationships:
• Each interaction with another person is a unique and irreplaceable experience. Treat every conversation as an opportunity to connect deeply
Healthy Heart
Know Your Numbers. They Could Just Save Your Life.
By Patrice Pompey, PA-C
My job as a mid-level clinician places me at an occupational health clinic serving the employees of a large employer. While treating sore backs or monitoring workplace injuries is certainly part of my job, it’s more about seeing the whole personhelping employees stay productive but also being truly healthy. Sometimes, that means recognizing when a patient needs a little extra encouragement to take their health seriously.
I often find myself telling my patients, “You can’t manage what you don’t measure.” Knowing your risk is critical to preventing cardiovascular disease, and knowing your risk starts with knowing your numbers.
Certainly, we all know a lot of numbers by heart, like phone numbers, birthdays, pin numbers and passwords. But do you know the most critical numbers for your heart health? That
knowledge could just save your life.
T hat’s why the American Heart Association encourages you to schedule a visit with your doctor to learn your personal health numbers including Blood Pressure, Cholesterol, Blood Sugar and Body Mass Index (BMI) and assess your risk for heart disease and stroke.
Cardiovascular disease is the #1 killer of Americans, for both men and women. It accounts for nearly 1 in 3 deaths in the United States and claims more lives each year than all forms of cancer combined.
Preventing heart disease (and all cardiovascular diseases) means making smart choices now that will pay off the rest of your life. Consider: Choose a healthy eating plan. The food you eat can decrease your risk of heart disease and stroke. Pick foods low in saturated fat, trans fat, and sodium. As part of a healthy diet, eat plenty of fruits and vegetables,
whole grains, fish (preferably oily fish at least twice weekly), nuts, legumes and seeds. Select lower-fat dairy products and skinless poultry. Limit sugar-sweetened beverages and red meat. If you choose to eat meat, select the leanest cuts available.
Be physically active. You can slowly work up to at least 2½ hours (150 minutes) of moderate-intensity aerobic physical activity (e.g., brisk walking) every week or 1 hour and 15 minutes (75 minutes) of vigorous-intensity
aerobic physical activity (e.g., jogging, running) or a combination of both every week
Learn the warning signs. It’s never too early or too late to learn the warning signs of a heart attack and stroke. Not everyone experiences sudden numbness with a stroke or severe chest pain with a heart attack. Heart attack symptoms in women can be different than men.
To learn more, explore the resources at www.heart.org.
fiber-rich
The Framework
Memorial Hermann Sugar Land Hospital Breaks Ground on New Tower
Memorial Hermann Sugar Land Hospital commenced development on a new North Tower that will feature seven floors with modern patient rooms, as well as state-of-the-art surgical suites, expanded emergency care, and a new Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU), among other specialized departments.
“Memorial Hermann Sugar Land’s North Tower is more than a building - it represents our commitment to the health and well-being of our community,” said Malisha Patel, senior vice president and chief executive officer of Memorial Hermann Sugar Land Hospital and Memorial Hermann Southwest Hospital. “Our Sugar Land campus expansion will enhance our ability to provide exceptional care, strengthen community connections and shape the health and well-being of the community, now and for generations to come.”
The North Tower development
is the next phase of a $231 million expansion project launched in 2022. The overall project will add capacity in the catheterization lab and key outpatient areas, including emergency department rooms, operating rooms and endoscopy suites, diagnostic imaging and additional parking. The expansion is anticipated to bring approximately 150 job opportunities, both clinical and administrative, to the Sugar Land area.
Memorial Hermann Sugar Land is in one of the fastest growing areas in Greater Houston with the population of Fort Bend County expected to reach one million by 2027.
“As our community continues to experience rapid growth, we are preparing for the future and ensuring that we can continue to provide exceptional care to our patients,” said Matt Kelly, vice president of operations of
Memorial Hermann Sugar Land. “The new patient tower will enable us to offer a wider range of specialty services right here in Fort Bend County, ensuring our community has access to comprehensive care close to home.”
Construction will be completed on the new tower in 2026. Learn more about Memorial Hermann Sugar Land
Why Are my Hands Numb? Understanding the Causes of Hand Numbness and When to Seek Help
By Ryan D. Wagner, MD Plastic, Reconstructive, and Hand Surgeon
Numbness or tingling in the hands is a common symptom, but its causes can vary widely. It can be challenging to determine when and where to seek medical attention.
In this article, we’ll explore the most common causes of hand numbness and provide guidance on the next steps to take if you experience this symptom. Common Causes of Hand Numbness
C ompression neuropathies – Nerve compression can lead to numbness, tingling (paresthesia), or weakness in specific areas of the upper
extremity, depending on which nerve is affected. Paresthesia is often described as a burning, tingling, or “pins and needles” sensation. Carpal tunnel syndrome is the most common compression neuropathy which is caused by compression of the median nerve at the wrist. This results in numbness in the thumb, index, and middle fingers. Cubital tunnel syndrome is caused by compression of the ulnar nerve at the elbow and leads to numbness of the small and ring fingers. Weakness of the hand can occur in both syndromes when the condition is advanced. Compression can also occur in other parts of the upper extremity and affect other nerves due to factors like overuse, injury, swelling, or the presence of masses or cysts.
Radiculopathy – Radiculopathy occurs when a nerve root is pinched or compressed as it exits the spinal column. In addition to numbness, symptoms may include shooting pain,
Elevate Your Practice
weakness, or loss of reflexes. Causes of radiculopathy include spinal stenosis, bone spurs or arthritis, or a herniated disc.
Peripheral Neuropathy – This condition involves symmetric and often persistent numbness, typically affecting the feet before the hands. Poorly controlled diabetes can lead to permanent nerve damage and peripheral neuropathy. Chronic alcohol use can also result in neuropathy. Finally, deficiencies in certain vitamins including B12 and B6 can contribute to
nerve damage.
Syndromes and Diseases – Certain medical conditions can increase the risk of nerve compression or numbness. Fibromyalgia can predispose individuals to nerve compression with associated pain. Raynaud’s syndrome, caused by decreased blood flow to the fingers, can lead to numbness. Hypothyroidism is associated with an increased risk of carpal tunnel syndrome.
Medications - Some medications,
“The Key Signs and Symptoms of Arthritis”
By Hoffman, Kevin, B.S., Pluenneke, Molly, B.S., She, Jenny, B.S., and Jain, Aryan, B.S.
Doyour knuckles ache when you move your hands? When you wake up, are your fingers stiff and sore? After a long day of crafting, are your joints swollen and red? If this sounds familiar, you may have arthritis.
Types of Arthritis
The most common type of arthritis is osteoarthritis. Though osteoarthritis has several causes, they all stem from wear and tear of the bones and joints over time.1 Because of this, it is common in those who work with their hands or are older since they have had more time for damage to occur.
The next most common type of arthritis is rheumatoid arthritis, which is not caused by physical damage. Rather, it results from the body’s own immune system attacking the joints.2 The body mistakes its own cells for
The swelling, redness, and discomfort can occur inside the joints, causing arthritis symptoms.
Signs and Symptoms
W hat should you look out for and remember to tell your doctor? Arthritis itself is swelling and pain of the joints, often on the hands and feet. However, the symptoms can vary between different causes, so it can be useful to take note of the common symptoms of each. This list is not exhaustive, but can be helpful to note down to mention to your doctor.
Since osteoarthritis is the wear and tear of bones and joints, the damaged joints look different. Often, they may seem a little crooked or misshapen compared to before. Because the damage results from overusing your joints, the pain and swelling usually worsens later in the day after using your joints a lot, but it improves with rest.
foreign invaders, so it does everything it can to attack them. This results in the joints becoming slowly damaged over time.
Septic arthritis occurs when there are actual foreign invaders, usually bacteria, that enter the joints.3 This can occur after an injury, surgery, or illness where germs enter the joints. Just like how your throat becomes swollen and sore from the common cold, this can hurt your joints.
One less common cause of arthritis is psoriatic arthritis. Psoriatic arthritis results from an allergic reaction.4 Instead of redness and swelling from pollen or cat hair, it is an allergy against your own skin.
Rheumatoid arthritis results from your own immune system attacking your joint, so this arthritis does not change much based on the time of day. Unlike osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis does not improve with rest because it is driven by immune system activity rather than physical wear and tear.
Septic arthritis is caused by germs, so you would expect to see other symptoms of an illness. For example, you may have a fever, chills at night, or feel more fatigued than normal as your body warms, sweats, and strains to fight for you.
If you have dry scaly rashes on
Financial Forecast Finding the Right Power of Attorney: A Thoughtful and Strategic Decision
By Grace S. Yung, CFP Midtown Financial Group, LLC
Choosing a power of attorney (POA) is a crucial decision in planning for the future. A POA is a trusted individual who makes decisions on your behalf if you become unable to do so. The right choice requires careful thought, as this role carries significant responsibility over financial and health matters.
Understanding the Role of a Power of Attorney
There are two primary types of POAs:
1. Health Care Power of Attorney –Makes medical decisions, ensuring that your treatment preferences are followed.
2. Financial Power of Attorney
3. Time and Availability A POA should have the time and commitment to manage responsibilities effectively. Consider whether their career, family, or other obligations could hinder their availability.
4. Temperament and DecisionMaking Skills Choose someone who remains calm under pressure, makes sound decisions, and can advocate for your wishes in medical or financial settings.
5. Financial and Legal Acumen A Financial POA should be comfortable managing money and making sound financial decisions. If they lack expertise, they should be willing to seek professional guidance.
Introducing Your POA to Your Financial Advisor
Introducing your POA to your financial advisor ensures a smoother transition if they need to step in. A
– Manages financial affairs such as paying bills and overseeing investments. You may choose one person for both roles or appoint separate individuals based on their expertise and abilities.
Key Considerations When Choosing a Power of Attorney
1. Proximity and Accessibility A local POA is beneficial for handling legal matters, attending meetings, and responding quickly to emergencies.
2. Age and Longevity Select someone younger or in good health to ensure long-term availability. An older POA may face health challenges that could impact their ability to act on your behalf.
financial advisor can provide insight into your accounts and investment strategies, helping the POA make informed decisions.
Discussing and Documenting Your Wishes
Open discussions with your POA about your preferences and expectations are essential. Whether for medical treatment or financial priorities, clear instructions ensure your wishes are honored. Legal documentation, such as a living will, can provide additional clarity.
Considering a Backup POA Life is unpredictable, and
Oncology
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• Bleeding from the rectum or on the stool
• Feeling of weakness or fatigue
• Stools that are narrower than usual
• Anemia
• Decreased appetite or unexplained weight loss
• Feeling like bowel doesn’t fully empty
What are the key challenges?
Hands
Continued from page 9
including chemotherapy drugs, can cause numbness and tingling in the hands and/or feet. While symptoms may improve after stopping the medication, in some cases, they can be permanent.
When to Seek Medical Help
Occasional hand numbness from activities like sleeping with your wrist flexed or leaning on your elbow is common and typically resolves on its own. However, if you experience persistent numbness, numbness triggered by specific activities, or additional symptoms such as pain, weakness, or difficulty with movement, you should schedule an appointment with your healthcare provider.
During your visit, your doctor
Arthritis
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your elbows, ankles, or scalp, you may be at risk for psoriatic arthritis. You may feel achy joints around your ankles and elbows following the pattern of your rash. Since it is an allergy, you may also feel drained just like you do
When it comes to colorectal cancer, the facts tell the story. Although the five-year survival rate for colorectal cancer discovered early and before the cancer spreads is 91 percent, only about 35 percent of colorectal cancers are identified in this early stage.
Additionally, the Colorectal Cancer Alliance found 75 percent of young adults with early-onset colorectal cancer were concerned about their
mental health, 66 percent took a leave of absence from work or school, and more than 50 percent experienced financial difficulties. Young adults living with colorectal cancer shouldn’t be afraid to seek help. At Texas Oncology, many resources are available for patients and caregivers, such as counseling and social services, tips for managing cancer in the workplace, and guidance on family planning.
This year, an estimated 154,270 new cases of colon and rectal cancer will be diagnosed in the U.S. As we see more of these cases in younger patients, all adults are encouraged to speak with their doctor about potential risk factors, signs and symptoms, and when to begin regular screenings to improve early detection and prevention.
will likely ask you further questions to better understand your symptoms. Is the numbness constant or intermittent? Does it affect one hand or both? Do you experience numbness elsewhere in your body such as the feet? Do you have any other symptoms such as tingling or pain? Have you noticed any weakness or loss of muscle? These details will help narrow down the cause of the numbness. Depending on your symptoms, additional test may be required such as bloodwork, X-rays, MRIs, or ultrasounds. In some instances, nerve conduction studies (NCS) and electromyography (EMG) may be performed to further evaluate nerve function.
Treatment Options
when pollen season arrives.
Home treatments
There are a few home treatments that can help your joint pain at low cost.1,2
• Warm compresses: Pour hot water on a towel and hold it on your joints for a few minutes.
• Hand exercises: Make a clenched
Financial Forecast
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circumstances change. Naming a backup POA ensures continuity in decision-making if your primary choice cannot fulfill their role.
Conclusion
Selecting the right POA requires
thoughtful consideration. The person(s) you choose should be responsible, trustworthy, and capable of managing financial and medical affairs. Whether appointing one person or dividing responsibilities,
The treatment for hand numbness will vary depending on the underlying cause. Your primary care doctor may refer you to a specialist such as a hand surgeon, spine surgeon, neurologist, or rheumatologist to help guide your care.
Compression neuropathies can initially be treated with hand and occupational therapy, splinting, or with corticosteroid injections. If these conservative measures don’t relieve symptoms, surgery may be required to decompression the affected nerve. Nonsurgical treatments such as physical therapy and medication are also typically recommended first for radiculopathy. Surgery may be considered if conservative treatment
fist, then slowly extend your fingers several times.
• Diet: Calcium in milk is important for bone strength. Fish provides great protein to improve your joints. Broccoli and other veggies are great for helping with inflammation. The most important step is to consult your doctor, who can determine
fails. Symptoms of peripheral neuropathy can often be improved by managing the underlying condition, improving blood glucose control in diabetes, or addressing nutritional deficiencies.
When to Seek Immediate Medical Attention
W hile most causes of hand numbness are not immediately life-threatening, it is important to seek immediate medical attention if you experience sudden numbness accompanied by weakness, confusion, a severe headache, or slurred speech. These could be signs of a stroke, a medical emergency.
discussing your choices openly is crucial. Introducing your POA to your financial advisor further helps with a seamless transition.
By making informed decisions now, you can have peace of mind
the exact cause of your arthritis and recommend the best treatment plan for you.
knowing that your affairs will be handled according to your wishes.
AI
Continued from page 1
like transparency, accountability, and patient safety. Providers operating in multiple states and developers marketing behavioral health AI tools nationwide will need to navigate these varying regulatory requirements What is on the Horizon for Behavioral Health AI?
As AI continues to transform the behavioral health landscape, several trends are emerging for providers to watch:
1. Increased Use of Generative AI in Therapy. Generative AI tools are being developed to assist clinicians in creating treatment plans, documentation, and patient communication. Providers should evaluate how these tools align with
Diabetes
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cause (16% lower); and kidney disease progression (36% lower) among patients initiated on a GLP1-RA vs. DPP4i.
Patients with CKD and end-stage renal disease due to Type 2 diabetes are also prone to complications such as hypoglycemia (low blood sugar), infections, or cardiovascular events. Managing these risks – and reducing the need for expensive, acute-care hospitalization – has long been a challenge.
“People with diabetes and chronic kidney disease have a very high risk of complications and experience frequent
Mental Health
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and authentically. Listen with empathy, speak with kindness, and appreciate the presence of others.
3. Appreciate the Small Moments:
• Life is made up of countless small moments that often go unnoticed. Slow down and savor these moments. Enjoy the warmth of the sun on your face, the aroma of your morning coffee, or the sound of birds chirping outside your window.
4. Reflect and Be Grateful:
• Take time each day to reflect on
their practice models and ensure compliance with any applicable regulations, particularly around data privacy and accuracy of generated content.
2. Scrutiny on Bias and Focus on Equity. Policymakers are paying increasing attention to algorithmic bias and its impact on underserved populations. Behavioral health providers adopting AI tools should assess the inclusivity of these technologies.
3. Integration with Value-Based Care Models. As value-based care becomes more prevalent, AI tools that demonstrate improved outcomes and cost-efficiency will be critical. Behavioral health providers must stay informed about emerging AI solutions that align with value-based reimbursement models.
Conclusion.
As the promise of a new environment for accelerated use of AI and innovation under the Trump Administration takes shape, behavioral health providers may have a more favorable opportunity to leverage AI to enhance patient care. The intersection of behavioral health and AI holds immense potential to reshape care delivery, but it also demands careful navigation of the emerging regulatory landscape. The federal government’s possible de-regulatory push may accelerate innovation and competition among existing and new players in the AI industry, while potentially varying state-level efforts could create a more complex compliance environment. By staying informed, nimble and adaptable, providers can position themselves to succeed in this transformative era.
hospitalizations,” Dr. Lingvay said. “Yet this population is much less likely to be included in clinical trials or be treated with medications that have proven benefits. Our findings demonstrate that GLP1-RAs can lead to fewer cardiovascular events, less progression of kidney disease, and lower health care costs. These are very impactful outcomes that support the widespread benefits of this class of medications in this high-risk population.”
Drs. Zhang and Lingvay believe that their study could help lead to changes in the clinical management of CKD.
“Historically, diabetic kidney disease has been difficult to address,”
your experiences and express gratitude. Keeping a gratitude journal can help you recognize and appreciate the beauty in everyday life.
5. Create Meaningful Rituals:
• Incorporate rituals into your daily routine that encourage mindfulness and appreciation. Whether it’s a morning cup of tea, a walk in the park, or a family dinner, these rituals can serve as reminders to be present and cherish the moment.
Embracing Ichi-go Ichi-e is not about perfection or adding more to our already busy lives. It’s about shifting our perspective and recognizing the value of the present moment.
Dr. Zhang said. “With further research, we could eventually see new guidelines that include GLP1-RAs as part of a comprehensive treatment approach for diabetes-related kidney disease, potentially improving long-term outcomes and enhancing patient quality of life.”
Dr. Lingvay and her colleagues have extensive experience studying the benefits of semaglutide, including its value in reducing the risk of cardiovascular events and its ability to help patients with diabetes or obesity lose weight
By adopting this mindset, we can transform ordinary experiences into extraordinary ones, enriching our lives with deeper connections, greater joy, and lasting fulfillment.
In a world that often pulls us in many directions, Ichi-go Ichi-e invites us to slow down, to savor, and to truly live. It reminds us that each moment is a precious gift, one that deserves our full attention and appreciation. So, the next time you find yourself rushing through the day, remember Ichi-go Ichi-e. Pause, breathe, and embrace the moment, because it will never come again.
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