The easiest way to show your vaccination records

Read more about The easiest way to show your vaccination records

Are you thinking about flying to your next vacation destination? Maybe you’re ready to go to a concert? As COVID-19 continues, many social situations require proof of a vaccine to participate.

With the MyChart app on your phone, you have quick access to your vaccination records, which takes away the risk of being denied access to an event or venue because you lost your vaccine card. MyChart even provides a QR code that you can download to prove your vaccination status without logging into the app.

To find your status within MyChart, log into the MyChart app, click “Menu,” and look for the COVID-19 virus icon.

MyChart signup

It’s quick and free to sign up for MyChart. In addition to using it to show your vaccination status, you can view test results, have a video visit with your provider, request medication refills and much more.

To get started today:

Download the MyChart App from the Apple App Store or Google Play or go to mychart.genesishcs.org
Click on “New user activation” and follow the easy instructions

Genesis HealthCare System’s Health and Wellness content conveniently provides accurate and helpful information. Your health history and current health may impact suggestions provided through our Health and Wellness content. Although we hope this information is helpful, it is not a substitute for your doctor's medical advice. Before making any significant changes, please consult your doctor.

Covid-19

LiveWell

Wed, 02/09/2022 - 08:00

As COVID-19 continues, many social situations require proof of a vaccine to participate.

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Firepit safety

Read more about Firepit safety

In the summer and fall, it is fun to have cookouts and make s’mores by a firepit.

Plus, the outdoors is a great place to hang out with friends and family.

What we never want to hear or think about is an accident happening with fire. It could happen to anyone, and we want to ensure everyone is safe while having fun.

To prevent a fire-related accident, the U.S. Fire Administration recommends the following tips for practicing fire safety outdoors:

Use chimneys, outdoor fireplaces and firepits at least 10 feet away from your home or anything that can burn.
Watch children closely when a firepit is in use.
Use a metal screen over wood-burning fires to keep sparks from floating out.
Put out fires before you go inside.
Keep matches and lighters out of children’s sight and reach.

The Chimney Safety Institute of America recommends putting out a fire by slowly moving your hose in a zigzag pattern. After wetting the firepit down, take a shovel and move around the wet embers so the water can soak in. Remember to extinguish the fire before going to bed or anytime you leave the fire unattended.

If there happens to be an accident and someone gets burned, immediately tend to that person. The American Red Cross advises removing any clothing or jewelry not stuck to the burn site, then cooling the burn as soon as possible with clean, cool or lukewarm water for 20 minutes, then leaving the burn uncovered.

If emergency medical service is called and delayed or transport is needed, cover the burn loosely with a clean, sterile dressing or plastic wrap if necessary. You should not use ice or ice water to help with a burn, as ice can cause more damage to the skin.

Some of us often hear the expression, “it’s not if, it’s when,” and we always want to be prepared. These tips are a precaution to prevent an accident from happening and ways to treat a burn until medical help arrives.

Call 911 if the accident is severe and you aren’t able to safely transport the victim to the hospital.

Lifestyle

LiveWell

Mon, 07/29/2024 - 08:00

To prevent a fire-related accident, the U.S. Fire Administration recommends the following tips for practicing fire safety outdoors.

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Exercises to combat chronic disease

Read more about Exercises to combat chronic disease

Having a chronic disease can be a challenge. You may need to take medication or avoid certain foods and activities. However, chronic diseases don’t have to control your life. You can frequently slow the progression of a chronic disease and its effects by developing a wellness plan, which often involves exercise.

We know we often recommend exercise. However, there are several good reasons. Countless studies have shown regular exercise can help you in numerous ways.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) states exercise can help:

Improve memory and the ability to work through problems.
Control weight.
Strengthen bones and muscles.
Make normal activities easier by increasing stamina, balance and flexibility.
Improve mental health by reducing stress.
Reduce the risk of certain diseases.
Improve sleep.

Even better, you will start to feel some benefits, like stress relief and improved sleep, soon after beginning to exercise.

With so many types of exercise, you should be able to find something you enjoy and is either free or low-cost.

If you are not sure where to start, the National Council on Aging recommends the following exercises for combating diabetes. However, these exercises are also great for people with several other chronic diseases. You can try:

Walking
Dancing
Yoga
Weight training
Tai chi
Swimming

The common factor in these activities is that they will get you up and moving. Most combine moderate muscle-building along with balance and flexibility.

Just as important as exercising is not overdoing it, especially if you’re just starting and have a chronic disease. Before beginning any exercise program, you should consult with your doctor for tips on which exercises you should try, how long you should exercise and other necessary precautions to take.

Fitness

LiveWell

Mon, 07/29/2024 - 08:00

We know we often recommend exercise. However, there are several good reasons.

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Summer fruit salad

Read more about Summer fruit salad

Ingredients:

3 cups spring mix lettuce
2 ½ cups pecans, coarsely chopped
2 or 3 fresh shallots, minced
1 teaspoon granulated sugar
1 teaspoon red wine vinegar
2 teaspoons red wine
¼ cup dried apricots
¼ cup fresh red raspberries
¼ cup fresh blueberries
¼ cup blue cheese, crumbled

Make the chipotle-candied pecans

½ cup granulated sugar
½ cup water
2 ½ cups pecan pieces
1/8 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/8 teaspoon chili powder

Preheat oven to 375° F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

In a small saucepan on the stovetop, combine sugar and water. Bring to a boil, whisking to dissolve the sugar.

Remove from the heat, stir in the pecans and toss to coat. Spread the nuts on a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Toast in the oven for about 8-10 minutes, or until toasty.

While still warm, sprinkle the nuts with a mixture of cinnamon and chili powder.

Set aside to cool completely. Once cool, you can store the candied nuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a month.

Make the dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together the minced shallots, sugar, red wine vinegar and red wine.

Heat the saucepan to low heat and add the mixture. Cook for 5 minutes or until shallots are tender.

The minimum internal temperature should be 140 degrees F. or above.

Cool quickly to an internal temperature of 40 degrees F. or below.

Store in an airtight jar in the refrigerator at 40 degrees F. or below for up to 1 week.

Assemble the salad

Put the lettuce in a stainless-steel serving bowl.

Add the blue cheese, raspberries and blueberries.

Top with candied pecans and apricots.

Just before serving, drizzle the dressing over the salad, to taste.

Nutritional information:

Serving size: 1 salad (about 3 cups)
Calories per serving: 300
Total Fat: 15 g
Cholesterol: 20 mg
Sodium: 230 mg
Carbohydrates: 13 g
Fiber: 3 g
Sugar: 17 g
Protein: 3 g

Approved by:

Clay Simmons
Executive Chef
Genesis Food and Nutrition Services

Find more recipes at genesishcs.org/eatwell.

Recipes

LiveWell

Fri, 07/28/2023 - 08:00

This colorful and nutritious summer salad recipe features candied pecans, apricots, berries, and blue cheese on top of fresh lettuce.

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Safely savor summer foods

Read more about Safely savor summer foods

A lot of people enjoy outdoor barbecues in the summer. From grilled chicken to s’mores, we can cook many things outside while enjoying the nice weather. However, we want to be safe from fires and ensure our food is fully cooked.

Check the temperature

Thermometers are not just for people who are sick or have a fever. They can be used for food, too, especially meat. According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) color is never reliable to ensure your food is thoroughly cooked. Using a food thermometer ensures fully cooked food. This includes frozen food with labels such as “cook and serve,” “ready to cook” and “oven ready.” Below is a list of grilled foods that need to be cooked to a specific temperature to ensure they are safe to eat.

Cook poultry (whole or ground) to 165 F.
Cook beef, pork, lamb and veal steaks, chops and roasts to 145 F.
Cook ground beef, pork, lamb and veal to 160 F.
Cook egg dishes to 160 F.
Cook fish to 145 F.
For safety and quality, allow meat to rest for at least three minutes before carving or consuming.

One-hour rule

Most of us have heard of the five-second rule. What does the one-hour rule mean when it comes to food? The one-hour rule is when the temperature outside rises to 90 F or higher. According to the USDA, foods such as meat, poultry, dips, cold salads or cut fruits or vegetables are safe to sit at the table for an hour. After an hour, harmful bacteria may start to grow, which can lead to foodborne illnesses.

Remember to keep your cold foods cold and hot foods hot so you and your family can enjoy many backyard barbecues this summer.

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Nutrition

LiveWell

Mon, 07/21/2025 - 08:00

We can cook many things outside while enjoying summer weather. Remember these food temperature tips so your family can enjoy many backyard barbecues.

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Shoes matter

Read more about Shoes matter

Ask the princess with the glass slipper

The sun is out, and the sand stretches to endless water. It’s going to be a great day if you can keep from scratching your foot on a rock, getting the tops of your feet burned, stepping on a bee while barefoot or twisting an ankle while running in flip-flops.

Those perfect summer days with no worries are rare. Make sure you get the most out of them with appropriate footwear.

We know that part of summer fun is letting your toes escape their winter prison of socks and closed-toe shoes. An increase in activities over the summer months, especially after an inactive winter, can lead to multiple foot concerns. With a little planning, you can still let your piggies out and go home safe.

Make the right choice

When it comes to summer, a lot of us want the sleekest slides and hassle-free flip-flops. However, when buying summer shoes with minimal coverage, you should pick the proper footwear for the right occasion.

To keep joints and feet healthy, it’s best to give them a cushion. Our providers at Genesis Foot & Ankle recommend wearing sandals that fit the shape of your feet. Without supportive sandals, stress fractures are more common.

Straps and traction keep shoes on your feet and prevent tumbling on slick surfaces. Genesis Foot & Ankle says stretching the Achilles tendon can also reduce foot pressures and the chances of injury.

Fancy glass slippers that match the perfect sundress also have drawbacks. An increase in heel height can lead to greater instability, leading to injury.

Flip flops can be a good choice around pools, in public showers and even hotels where problems like plantar warts, athlete’s foot, ringworm and other infections want to hitch a free ride on your feet.

Trust us, these are not the vacation souvenirs you want to take home. If you are going to be active, consider more substantial footwear to eliminate the risk of the sole bending under itself or slipping off and causing you to fall.

A moment in the sun

After your feet have wintered in heavy socks and snuggly boots, letting them bask in the sun often feels good. However, as your feet usually get minimal exposure to the sun, it makes them easy to burn.

Be sure to cover the tops of your feet and ankles, along with other exposed skin, with the appropriate sunscreen. Reapply after being in the water.

Put your feet up and rest

A few simple tips can help keep your feet healthy. Enjoy the carefree days this summer with the right shoes. Your feet will appreciate the royal treatment.

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Sign up for our digital newsletters to receive health tips, recipes, success stories for inspiration and information about new doctors to help you on your journey to better health.

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Lifestyle

LiveWell

Mon, 07/21/2025 - 08:00

Those perfect summer days with no worries are rare. Make sure you get the most out of them with the proper footwear.

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Exercise safely even when it's hot

Read more about Exercise safely even when it's hot

Summer is a great time for being active. Even if you live where it gets hot or humid, there are ways to safely stay active. It depends on how active you already are and how used to hot weather you are. Anytime you exercise, it’s a good idea to take these precautions.

Drink plenty of water

You lose fluid when you are active. If you lose too much, it can result in dehydration, muscle cramps or even heat exhaustion. In hot weather, drink plenty of fluids before, during and after activity. For longer exercise periods, sports drinks contain carbohydrates and minerals called electrolytes that may help prevent dehydration.

Watch for signs of dehydration and heat-related illnesses such as heat exhaustion and heatstroke. Signs of dehydration include having a dry mouth and eyes, and feeling dizzy.

Don’t exercise as hard when it’s hot

Take rest breaks. Exercise more slowly than usual or for a shorter time. Stay in the shade when you can. Wear light-colored, breathable clothes. And always wear sunscreen.

Use extra caution if you have health problems

If you are overweight, have health problems, take medicines or use alcohol, you may be at a higher risk for heat-related illness. You may also have trouble if you are not used to exercising in warmer weather.

Check the air quality before outdoor activities, especially if you have conditions like asthma. Airnow.gov provides air quality ratings for your location and a pollution index.

Consider changing outside activity on hot days

When it’s hot and humid, take extra precautions when you’re active. This might mean you change your activity or when you choose to do it. Here are some ideas:

Take morning or evening walks.
Go for a bike ride. Find shaded areas and ride during cooler times of day.
Go swimming.
Do light yard work or gardening.
Wash your car. Give yourself a splash to stay cool.

Find an indoor activity

Sometimes it isn’t safe to be active outdoors. There are many ways to be active indoors, such as:

Go for walks indoors. Take a walk at the mall with a friend. Check with local schools and churches. They may have indoor gyms where you can walk.
Get fit while you watch TV or listen to music with hand weights or stretch bands. Use cans of food if you don’t have weights.
Use an online exercise video or a smartphone app.
Join a gym or health club.
Try a fitness class or a new indoor activity, such as dancing or water aerobics.
Get involved in indoor sports leagues.

Always ask your doctor for the best exercises for you.

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Sign up for our digital newsletters to receive health tips, recipes, success stories for inspiration and information about new doctors to help you on your journey to better health.

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Fitness

LiveWell

Mon, 07/21/2025 - 08:00

Summer is a great time for being active. Even when it’s hot or humid, there are many ways to exercise safely.

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The future of Genesis Hospice Care

Read more about The future of Genesis Hospice Care

Why does a new hospice facility matter?

“I was exhausted caring for my mother at home as she neared the end,” said Carolyn Quinn, daughter of a hospice patient. “Genesis picked her up and took her to the Morrison House. I slept for 10 hours a night for two nights, and then they brought her home, and I was rested and ready to care for her so she could pass where she wanted.”

This is one of countless stories told by hospice patients’ family members and loved ones. As the region’s only dedicated inpatient hospice facility, the Morrison House has provided much-needed support for thousands of families during their most difficult times.

After serving our community for over 35 years, the Morrison House has reached the very end of its useful life. With the help of the community, partners and the Genesis team, we are committed to continuing to provide hospice service both at home and in a new dedicated inpatient facility.

The J.W. & M.H. Straker Charitable Foundation was extremely generous in making a donation to name the new facility. The Franciscan Sisters of Christian Charity also demonstrated their generosity by donating the land across the street from the current Morrison House for the new building’s location.

With your support, we will fulfill our promise to build a new facility and ensure our nonprofit, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) Five-Star Rated Hospice facility continues to provide the vital care you’ve come to know and trust.

Your contribution will support private patient rooms and bathrooms with beautiful garden views and so much more.

If you would like more information or to contribute, please visit genesishcs.org/foundation or call 740-454-5052.

Thank you for helping us support our community’s future.

Hospice Capital Campaign

With your help, we can continue providing the best care to patients and support their families at our new hospice facility.

Donate to the Genesis Hospice Care Capital Campaign

Hospice Care

LiveWell

Mon, 07/21/2025 - 08:00

With your support, we will fulfill our promise to build a new hospice facility and continue to provide the vital care you’ve come to know and trust.

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Two minutes to better health

Read more about Two minutes to better health

Take another step for better health

In recent years, study after study has piled up to shout the benefits of walking. In our The benefits of walking: follow these easy steps blog, we explained that walking can:

Combat weight gain by decreasing the impact of genes that promote obesity

Curb cravings, including for chocolate

Reduce the risk of breast cancer

Ease joint pain

Boost immune function

Improve your mood

Benefits in as little as 2 minutes

Today, we are highlighting a study from the Sports Medicine journal that shares walking for just two minutes after eating can help prevent blood sugar from spiking. This is important because drastic blood sugar spikes and falls can increase the risk of diabetes and heart disease. The study states that muscles need glucose (sugar) to function, and by walking, you get the glucose out of your bloodstream, where too much can lead to harm.

Some studies cite a slightly higher number, like 10 minutes, but they agree that moving after eating is a good thing. A simple walk versus a high-intensity activity can help you avoid cramps and reap benefits.

More benefits from walking

It is likely the benefits in this study have already convinced you to get moving. However, if you need a little more inspiration, consider the research cited on the AARP website. The study states that taking 8.000 steps a day on average can lower your mortality by 51% compared to people who average 4,000 steps a day. The study also says the 8,000 steps don’t have to be rigorous. Even better, it shares it is never too late. According to the article, becoming fit later in life can reduce the risk of a deadly stroke by half.

Considering all the benefits of walking, with the relatively low cost of equipment needed, a decent pair of walking shoes, it seems like the perfect form of exercise.

Before starting a new workout, please talk to your doctor to determine an appropriate level at which you should start at and how quickly you should increase your steps and effort.

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Fitness

Tue, 07/22/2025 - 08:00

In recent years, study after study has piled up to shout the benefits of walking.

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You’re in control with MyChart

Read more about You’re in control with MyChart

Meet Mary. Juggling a busy life with three kids and a successful career, Mary always puts her family’s needs ahead of her own.

Mary needed a way to easily manage her family’s healthcare appointments, message doctors after the kids went to bed and know when it’s time for her annual wellness visit.

She saw a poster in the doctor’s office about MyChart and asked the nurse to tell her more. Mary learned MyChart is a quick way to view parts of her medical record online. Using her phone or computer, Mary can stay organized while on the go.

Mary can choose when and where to manage health information, such as:

Review upcoming tests and procedures with her morning coffee.
Receive appointment reminders on her daily walk.
Check for recommended screenings in the carpool line.
Ask her provider questions during lunch.
Schedule lab work at the park.
View and pay bills while watching TV.
Request prescription refills on a weekend.

Mary found that she saves even more time before appointments with special features including:

Simplified paperwork with eCheck-in: Update health and insurance information from the comfort of her home.
Skip the line: Click the “I’m here” button on the app to check into appointments.
Touchless arrival: Turn on mobile location notifications to automatically let care teams know she arrived.

With control of her health, Mary spends more stress-free time with her kids. She and her husband learned how to securely share their medical information to have better peace of mind.

Plus, she’s used “Find Care Now” to schedule urgent care and orthopedic urgent care visits. Many providers also offer online appointments and lab draw scheduling.

Visit mychart.genesishcs.org to get started or download the app from the Apple and Google app stores. An access code is not needed. You can add Genesis HealthCare System to an existing MyChart account.

Talk to your provider with questions.