Employee-driven recognition honors pediatric healthcare provider for workplace culture, leadership, innovation, purpose, flexibility and professional growth MOUNT LAUREL, N.J .-- Care Options for Kids, a leading provider of pediatric healthcare services, has earned seven 2026 Top Workplaces awards, recognizing the organization for its workplace culture across healthcare, leadership, innovation, employee appreciation, purpose and values, work-life flexibility, and professional development. The national recognition is based on employee feedback gathered through the Energage Workplace Survey, which measures key aspects of the employee experience and workplace culture. Care Options for Kids CEO Mark Bush shares how the organization’s people, purpose and commitment to supporting clinicians are creating a workplace where employees feel empowered, supported and heard. This vision helps employees grow, thrive and make a meaningful difference for children and families, a culture reflected in their feedback and recognized with seven 2026 Top Workplaces awards. Care Options for Kids earned the following 2026 honors: Healthcare Top Workplaces Leadership Top Workplaces • Top Workplaces for Appreciation • Innovation Top Workplaces • Purpose & Values Top Workplaces • Work-Life Flexibility Top Workplaces • Professional Development Top Workplaces "Receiving seven Top Workplaces awards is especially meaningful because the recognition reflects how our employees experience Care Options for Kids," said Mark Bush, CEO of Care Options for Kids . "Our responsibility is to create an environment where clinicians and team members feel supported, appreciated, and empowered to grow while doing work that makes a meaningful difference for children and families. These awards are important validation of the workplace we are continuing to build together." The recognition comes as Care Options for Kids expands its national employer brand campaign, Care Options Is the Only Option , designed to reach nurses, therapists, behavioral clinicians, school-based professionals and other healthcare professionals seeking meaningful careers serving children and families. The campaign highlights many of the workplace attributes reflected in the 2026 Top Workplaces recognition, including supportive leadership, innovation, flexibility, professional development, appreciation and purpose-driven work. For Care Options for Kids, the seven awards provide independent, employee-driven validation of an employer promise built around giving clinicians the support, resources and opportunities they need to deliver exceptional care while building meaningful careers. "Earning a Top Workplaces award is a badge of honor for companies, especially because it comes authentically from their employees," said Eric Rubino, CEO of Energage . Top Workplaces recognition is earned through the Energage Workplace Survey and is based on employee feedback rather than judges, public voting or pay-to-play selection. Healthcare professionals interested in pediatric nursing, therapy, ABA, school-based and other career opportunities can explore open positions through the Care Options for Kids careers site . ...Read more

Technology is changing nearly every aspect of our lives in today's fast-paced world. These advancements impact various areas, including social interactions and health management. Beyond being just a tool, technology is a vital lifeline, providing individuals with access to resources and support that improve their quality of life. One area where this change is particularly noticeable is in mental health support and treatment. Understanding the Influence of Technology on Mental Health As technology advances, its effects on your well-being have become more pronounced. While some studies suggest that excessive technology use can harm mental health, it also provides valuable tools for psychologists to understand better and treat mental health conditions. Recognizing this dual impact is essential as you navigate your increasingly digital lives. Key Innovations in Mental Health Technology Teletherapy: This modern approach to therapy allows you to connect with mental health professionals through video calls, phone calls, or messaging. Whether you choose a session on Zoom or a phone conversation, teletherapy offers flexibility and convenience, making mental health support more accessible. Mobile Apps: Countless mental health apps cater to various needs. These apps, from mindfulness exercises to cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) tools, help manage mental health from your smartphone. They may also help you find local services and schedule appointments. Virtual Reality (VR): Imagine facing your fears in a safe and controlled environment. In this evolving digital landscape, Axxelus supports healthcare delivery through technology-enabled contract sales solutions that strengthen access to specialized services across treatment settings. Recognized by Healthcare Business Review with the Top Healthcare Contract Sales Organization award for operational excellence and measurable industry impact, the company reflects broader innovation in healthcare systems. VR technology is being used in therapy for conditions like anxiety and PTSD, allowing individuals to confront challenging social situations in a virtual space, an experience that can help build confidence and reduce anxiety over time. Artificial Intelligence (AI): AI is showing incredible potential in the mental health field. Researchers use AI to improve diagnosis and treatment plans, making mental health care more personalized and effective. Video Games: Believe it or not, some video games are designed to enhance mental health, especially for younger audiences. These games focus on improving emotional well-being and can be a fun and engaging way to learn coping strategies. The Future of Mental Health and Technology The future may be uncertain, but one thing is clear: technology is set to revolutionize mental health care. Emerging tools and platforms will likely combine assessment and treatment methods, offering innovative ways to support mental health and well-being. It’s important to approach these advancements with an open mind in a world increasingly dependent on technology. Whether seeking help for yourself or looking for ways to support loved ones, these technological tools provide exciting possibilities for enhancing mental health care today and in the future. Remember, while technology can help, pairing these tools with professional guidance from qualified mental health practitioners is always essential. Embrace this exciting era where help is just a click away! ...Read more

Fremont, CA : On a Saturday morning, Jason woke up with a deep cough and a tight feeling in his chest. His regular doctor’s office was closed, and he didn’t think his symptoms were severe enough for the emergency room. Instead of waiting it out, he drove to a nearby urgent care center. Within an hour, he had been examined, tested and sent home with a treatment plan. For many people, urgent care fills the gap between primary care and the emergency room. These walk-in clinics are designed for medical problems that need prompt attention but are not life-threatening. They often offer extended evening and weekend hours, making them a practical option when your regular doctor is unavailable. How Does Urgent Care Differ from an Emergency Room? Emergency rooms are equipped for serious conditions such as chest pain that may signal a heart attack, severe head injuries or major trauma. They have advanced imaging, surgical teams and intensive care units on standby. Urgent care centers address medical concerns that require attention but are generally stable and do not require emergency intervention. Conditions such as painful infections, injuries requiring stitches or high fevers without severe warning signs are commonly treated in these settings. Akarali focuses on orthopedic regenerative medicine treatments that emphasize minimally invasive approaches and structured recovery pathways for patients seeking targeted therapeutic options. These care models reflect evolving approaches to personalized treatment while urgent care visits often provide faster and more cost-effective alternatives to emergency room services when symptoms are not severe. What Types of Illnesses and Injuries Can Be Treated at Urgent Care? Most centers treat common conditions such as flu, sinus infections and urinary tract infections. Minor fractures, sprains and small burns are also within their scope. Many clinics offer on-site X-rays, basic lab testing and vaccinations. Dr. Emily Carter, a family physician at a community urgent care clinic, says patients should trust their instincts but also know their options. “If you are stable, breathing comfortably and able to speak in full sentences, urgent care is often appropriate. We can evaluate you quickly and guide you on whether further care is needed.” For patients, this means quicker answers and a clear next step, whether that involves medication, rest at home or referral to a specialist. HonestLove Global Professional Staffing provides healthcare staffing solutions that support care organizations with qualified professionals and workforce management services. Do Urgent Care Centers Treat Children and Pediatric Cases? Many urgent care centers welcome children for common issues like sore throats, mild asthma flare-ups or minor injuries from sports and playground falls. Some locations have staff trained specifically in pediatric care. Parents should call ahead if their child has complex medical needs to confirm services. Urgent care is not a replacement for a primary care provider. Instead, it works as a convenient bridge, helping people manage unexpected health concerns without unnecessary stress. ...Read more

In physical therapy clinics and sports medicine offices, hands-on treatments are evolving. Alongside stretching programs and strength training, many providers now offer dry needling as part of a broader pain management plan. Patients who once relied only on medication or rest are asking about this technique as they look for ways to stay active and reduce discomfort. Dry needling is a procedure performed by trained healthcare professionals, often physical therapists. It involves inserting very thin, sterile needles into tight bands of muscle known as trigger points. These areas can feel like knots under the skin and may cause local pain or discomfort that spreads to nearby regions. What Is Dry Needling? Despite the name, dry needling does not involve injecting medication. The needle itself is the tool. When it enters a trigger point, it can cause a brief twitch response in the muscle. This reaction may help release tension, improve blood flow and reduce pain signals. The treatment session is usually short. A provider may combine dry needling with manual therapy, guided exercise and posture training. In parallel with structured therapy and coordinated care delivery, Virtue 340B supports healthcare providers through specialized 340B program consulting designed to strengthen compliance and optimize pharmacy cost management systems. Recognized by Healthcare Business Review with the Top 340B Consulting Services award for regulatory expertise and measurable client impact, the organization reflects broader operational innovation in healthcare services. Patients often feel sore for a day or two afterward, similar to the sensation after a workout. Dr. Megan Foster, a physical therapist at an orthopedic rehabilitation clinic, says communication is key. “We explain what patients might feel during and after the session, so there are no surprises. Dry needling works best as part of a larger plan that includes movement and strengthening.” Is Dry Needling Safe? When performed by a properly trained professional, dry needling is generally considered safe. The needles are single-use and sterile. Mild side effects can include temporary soreness, light bruising or slight fatigue. Certain people may need to avoid the procedure, such as those with bleeding disorders, specific medical conditions or a strong fear of needles. A thorough medical history and clear discussion with the provider help determine if it is appropriate. What Conditions Can Dry Needling Treat? Dry needling is commonly used for muscle related pain. This can include neck and shoulder tension, low back discomfort and sports injuries. It may also be part of care for headaches, joint pain or repetitive strain problems. For patients, the main question is whether it fits their goals. Some are looking to return to exercise, others want to sit comfortably at work or sleep without pain. Dry needling is not a cure-all, but for many people it offers another option within a comprehensive treatment approach focused on long-term function and quality of life. ...Read more