HEALTHONLINEUS

**Wider Circle and CareFirst Collaborate to Create Peer-Led Community Support Networks**

In an era where healthcare is increasingly focused on holistic, patient-centered care, the importance of community support and peer-led interventions has never been more evident. Recognizing this, Wider Circle, a social health organization dedicated to fostering meaningful connections among underserved populations, has partnered with CareFirst BlueCross BlueShield (CareFirst), a leading not-for-profit healthcare company, to create peer-led community support networks. This collaboration aims to address the social determinants of health (SDOH) and improve overall well-being by fostering a sense of belonging, reducing isolation, and promoting healthier lifestyles.

### The Importance of Social Determinants of Health

Social determinants of health are the non-medical factors that influence health outcomes. These include social, economic, and environmental conditions such as income, education, housing, and access to nutritious food. Research has shown that these factors can have a more significant impact on health outcomes than clinical care alone. For instance, individuals who experience social isolation or lack of community support are more likely to suffer from chronic conditions like heart disease, diabetes, and mental health issues.

Wider Circle and CareFirst’s collaboration is rooted in the understanding that addressing these social determinants is critical to improving health outcomes. By creating peer-led community support networks, they aim to provide individuals with the social support and resources they need to live healthier, more fulfilling lives.

### The Role of Wider Circle

Wider Circle has long been a pioneer in creating social health programs that bring people together to build supportive communities. Their model focuses on fostering peer-to-peer connections, where individuals can share experiences, offer emotional support, and encourage one another to adopt healthier behaviors. Wider Circle’s programs are designed to be inclusive, culturally sensitive, and tailored to meet the unique needs of the communities they serve.

Through its partnership with CareFirst, Wider Circle will expand its reach, bringing its innovative programs to more individuals across CareFirst’s service areas. The collaboration will focus on creating peer-led networks that address the specific needs of CareFirst members, particularly those who are vulnerable or underserved.

### CareFirst’s Commitment to Community Health

CareFirst has a long-standing commitment to improving the health and well-being of its members and the communities it serves. As a not-for-profit healthcare company, CareFirst is dedicated to addressing the root causes of poor health, including the social determinants that disproportionately affect marginalized populations. Through its partnerships and initiatives, CareFirst seeks to create a more equitable healthcare system that provides all individuals with the resources and support they need to thrive.

By partnering with Wider Circle, CareFirst is taking a proactive approach to addressing the social determinants of health. The peer-led community support networks will complement CareFirst’s existing programs and services, providing members with additional resources to improve their health and well-being.

### How Peer-Led Community Support Networks Work

The peer-led community support networks created by Wider Circle and CareFirst will be designed to foster meaningful connections among members. These networks will be facilitated by trained peer leaders—individuals who have lived experience with the challenges faced by the community. Peer leaders will guide group discussions, provide emotional support, and encourage members to share their experiences and insights.

The networks will focus on a range of topics, including chronic disease management, mental health, nutrition, and physical activity. Members will have the opportunity to participate in group activities, workshops, and discussions that promote healthy behaviors and provide practical tools for managing their health. The peer-led model ensures that members feel heard, understood, and supported by individuals who can relate to their experiences.

### Benefits of Peer-Led Support Networks

Research has shown that peer-led interventions can have a significant impact on health outcomes. By providing individuals with a sense of community and belonging, these programs can reduce feelings of isolation and loneliness, which are known risk factors for poor health. Additionally, peer-led support networks can empower individuals to take control of their health by providing them with the knowledge, skills, and confidence they need to make positive changes.

Some of the key benefits of peer-led community support networks include:

1. **Improved Mental Health**: Social support is a critical factor in mental health. By connecting individuals with peers who understand their struggles, these networks can reduce feelings of anxiety, depression, and stress.

2. **Chronic Disease Management**: Peer-led groups can provide individuals with practical tools and strategies for managing chronic conditions such as diabetes, hypertension, and heart disease. Members can share tips, offer encouragement, and hold each other accountable for making healthy choices.

3. **Increased Health Literacy**: Peer-led discussions can help individuals better understand their health conditions and the steps they can take to improve their well-being. This increased health literacy can lead to better adherence to treatment plans and healthier lifestyle choices.

4. **Empowerment and Self-Efficacy**: By participating in peer-led groups, individuals can gain a sense of empowerment and self-efficacy. They are

**Centivo Secures $75 Million to Reform U.S. Healthcare System**

In a significant move aimed at addressing the inefficiencies and escalating costs of healthcare in the United States, Centivo, a health plan administrator focused on delivering affordable, high-quality care, has successfully secured $75 million in Series B funding. This latest round of investment underscores the growing interest in innovative solutions to the U.S. healthcare system’s long-standing issues, such as rising premiums, high deductibles, and limited access to care. Centivo’s mission is to provide employers and employees with a more sustainable and cost-effective healthcare model, and this funding will help accelerate its efforts to reform the system.

### The U.S. Healthcare Crisis: A Brief Overview

The U.S. healthcare system is often criticized for its inefficiency, high costs, and uneven access to care. According to the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), healthcare spending in the U.S. reached $4.1 trillion in 2020, representing nearly 20% of the nation’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP). Despite this enormous expenditure, millions of Americans remain uninsured or underinsured, and many struggle to afford basic healthcare services.

Employers, who provide health insurance for over 150 million Americans, are also feeling the financial strain. Premiums for employer-sponsored health insurance have risen by 47% over the past decade, outpacing wage growth and inflation. As a result, both employers and employees are seeking alternatives to the traditional healthcare model, which often involves high premiums, deductibles, and out-of-pocket costs.

### Centivo’s Vision: Affordable, High-Quality Care

Founded in 2017, Centivo is a health plan administrator that aims to make healthcare more affordable and accessible by partnering with employers to offer innovative health plans. The company’s approach is centered around a “primary care-centered” model, which emphasizes preventive care, care coordination, and the use of high-quality, cost-effective providers. Centivo’s plans are designed to reduce healthcare costs for both employers and employees while improving health outcomes.

One of Centivo’s key differentiators is its focus on direct relationships with healthcare providers. Rather than relying on traditional insurance networks, Centivo works directly with high-performing primary care physicians and specialists to create a more streamlined and cost-effective care delivery system. This approach allows Centivo to negotiate better rates with providers and pass those savings on to employers and employees.

Additionally, Centivo’s model encourages employees to establish strong relationships with their primary care providers, who serve as the central point of contact for all healthcare needs. This helps ensure that patients receive the right care at the right time, reducing unnecessary tests, procedures, and hospital visits. By focusing on preventive care and care coordination, Centivo aims to improve health outcomes while lowering overall healthcare costs.

### Series B Funding: A Catalyst for Growth

The $75 million Series B funding round, led by B Capital Group, with participation from existing investors Bain Capital Ventures, Maverick Ventures, and Define Ventures, will enable Centivo to expand its operations and reach more employers across the country. The funding will be used to enhance Centivo’s technology platform, expand its provider network, and support the company’s growth into new markets.

Ashok Subramanian, CEO and co-founder of Centivo, expressed his excitement about the funding and the company’s future prospects. “We are thrilled to have the support of our investors as we continue to build a better healthcare system for employers and employees,” Subramanian said. “This funding will allow us to accelerate our growth and bring our innovative health plans to more employers who are looking for a better way to provide healthcare to their employees.”

The investment also reflects a broader trend in the healthcare industry, where venture capital firms are increasingly investing in companies that aim to disrupt the traditional healthcare model. With rising healthcare costs and growing dissatisfaction with the status quo, there is a strong demand for innovative solutions that can deliver better value for employers and employees alike.

### The Road Ahead: Challenges and Opportunities

While Centivo’s approach has the potential to address some of the key challenges facing the U.S. healthcare system, the road to reform is not without obstacles. One of the biggest challenges is the entrenched nature of the traditional healthcare system, which is dominated by large insurance companies, hospital systems, and pharmaceutical companies. These stakeholders have a vested interest in maintaining the status quo, and any efforts to disrupt the system are likely to face resistance.

Additionally, healthcare is a highly regulated industry, and navigating the complex web of federal and state regulations can be challenging for new entrants. Centivo will need to work closely with regulators to ensure that its innovative health plans comply with all applicable laws and regulations.

Despite these challenges, Centivo’s model has already shown promising results. The company has reported significant cost savings for its employer clients, with some employers seeing reductions in healthcare costs of up to 30%. Centivo’s focus on preventive care and care coordination has also led to improved

**NHS Collaborates with Alphabet’s Wing and Apian for Drone-Based Blood Sample Delivery**

In a groundbreaking move to revolutionize healthcare logistics, the National Health Service (NHS) has partnered with Alphabet’s drone delivery subsidiary, Wing, and UK-based medical drone startup Apian to develop a drone-based system for transporting blood samples and other medical supplies. This collaboration aims to improve the efficiency, speed, and sustainability of medical deliveries, particularly in remote or hard-to-reach areas, while also reducing the environmental impact of traditional transport methods.

### The Need for Innovation in Medical Logistics

The NHS, one of the largest healthcare systems in the world, handles millions of medical deliveries each year, including blood samples, medications, and diagnostic materials. These deliveries are critical for patient care, especially in emergencies or time-sensitive cases. However, traditional delivery methods, such as road-based transport, can be slow, costly, and subject to delays caused by traffic congestion, road conditions, or other logistical challenges.

In rural or geographically isolated areas, such as islands or mountainous regions, the delivery of medical supplies can be even more difficult. In such cases, delays in transporting blood samples or medications can have serious consequences for patient outcomes. The NHS has recognized the need for a more efficient and reliable delivery system, and drones offer a promising solution.

### The Role of Wing and Apian

Alphabet’s Wing has been a pioneer in drone delivery technology, having already conducted successful trials in various sectors, including retail and food delivery. Wing’s drones are designed to be lightweight, fast, and capable of flying autonomously over long distances. They are equipped with advanced navigation systems that allow them to avoid obstacles and safely deliver packages to designated locations.

Apian, a UK-based startup founded by NHS doctors, has been working on integrating drone technology into healthcare logistics. Apian’s mission is to use drones to streamline the delivery of medical supplies, reducing the time it takes to transport critical items and improving patient care. The company has already conducted trials in the UK, demonstrating the potential of drones to deliver medical supplies quickly and efficiently.

By combining Wing’s expertise in drone technology with Apian’s healthcare knowledge, the collaboration with the NHS aims to create a robust and scalable system for drone-based medical deliveries. The partnership will focus on transporting blood samples, but the system could eventually be expanded to include other medical supplies, such as medications, vaccines, and diagnostic materials.

### How the Drone Delivery System Works

The drone-based delivery system will involve the use of autonomous drones to transport blood samples from healthcare facilities, such as hospitals and clinics, to laboratories for testing. The process will be simple and efficient:

1. **Collection**: Blood samples are collected from patients at healthcare facilities and securely packaged for transport.

2. **Drone Dispatch**: The samples are loaded onto a drone at a designated launch site. The drone is programmed with the delivery destination, such as a laboratory or testing facility.

3. **Autonomous Flight**: The drone takes off and flies autonomously to the destination, using GPS and advanced navigation systems to avoid obstacles and ensure a safe flight. Wing’s drones are designed to fly at altitudes that minimize interference with other air traffic.

4. **Delivery**: Upon reaching the destination, the drone either lands or lowers the package using a tether system, ensuring that the blood samples are delivered safely and securely.

5. **Testing**: Once the samples are delivered, they are processed and tested at the laboratory, and the results are sent back to the healthcare facility.

This system has the potential to significantly reduce the time it takes to transport blood samples, particularly in areas where road transport is slow or unreliable. In some cases, drone deliveries could cut transport times from hours to minutes, which could be critical for patients requiring urgent diagnosis or treatment.

### Benefits of Drone-Based Medical Deliveries

The introduction of drone-based medical deliveries offers several key benefits for the NHS and the broader healthcare system:

1. **Speed**: Drones can bypass traffic and other road-based delays, allowing for faster delivery of blood samples and other medical supplies. This is particularly important for time-sensitive cases, such as emergency surgeries or critical diagnostics.

2. **Efficiency**: By automating the delivery process, drones can reduce the need for manual transport, freeing up healthcare staff to focus on patient care. Drones can also operate 24/7, ensuring that deliveries can be made at any time of day or night.

3. **Cost Savings**: While the initial investment in drone technology may be significant, the long-term cost savings could be substantial. Drones require less fuel and maintenance than traditional vehicles, and they can reduce the need for expensive courier services.

4. **Environmental Impact**: Drones are more environmentally friendly than traditional delivery vehicles, as they produce fewer emissions and consume less energy. This aligns with the NHS’s broader goal of reducing its carbon footprint and becoming more sustainable.

5. **Access to Remote Areas**

**17 Delicious Delicata Squash Recipes to Keep You Warm This Winter**

As the temperature drops and the days grow shorter, it’s time to embrace the cozy, comforting flavors of winter. One of the most versatile and delicious vegetables to include in your cold-weather cooking is delicata squash. With its sweet, nutty flavor and edible skin, delicata squash is a winter squash variety that’s easy to prepare and perfect for a wide range of dishes. Whether you’re roasting, stuffing, or turning it into a creamy soup, delicata squash can add warmth and nourishment to your winter meals.

Here are 17 delicious delicata squash recipes to keep you warm this winter:

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### 1. **Roasted Delicata Squash with Maple Glaze**
Roasting delicata squash brings out its natural sweetness, and a maple glaze adds a touch of caramelized richness. Simply slice the squash into rings, toss with olive oil, maple syrup, and a pinch of cinnamon, and roast until tender. This dish is perfect as a side for roasted meats or as a stand-alone snack.

### 2. **Stuffed Delicata Squash with Quinoa and Cranberries**
For a hearty and nutritious meal, stuff delicata squash halves with a mixture of quinoa, dried cranberries, toasted pecans, and fresh herbs. The combination of sweet and savory flavors makes this dish a festive option for winter dinners or holiday gatherings.

### 3. **Delicata Squash Soup with Coconut Milk**
Warm up with a creamy delicata squash soup. Roast the squash and blend it with coconut milk, ginger, garlic, and vegetable broth for a velvety, dairy-free soup. Garnish with fresh cilantro and a drizzle of chili oil for a spicy kick.

### 4. **Delicata Squash and Kale Salad**
For a lighter option, toss roasted delicata squash with massaged kale, toasted pumpkin seeds, and a tangy lemon-tahini dressing. This salad is packed with nutrients and makes a great side dish or light lunch.

### 5. **Delicata Squash and Sausage Skillet**
This one-pan meal combines roasted delicata squash with savory sausage, onions, and garlic. The flavors meld together beautifully, and the dish is easy to prepare on a busy weeknight. Serve with a side of crusty bread to soak up all the delicious juices.

### 6. **Delicata Squash Gratin**
For a decadent winter side dish, layer thin slices of delicata squash with cream, garlic, and Parmesan cheese. Bake until bubbly and golden brown for a comforting gratin that pairs perfectly with roasted chicken or beef.

### 7. **Delicata Squash Tacos**
Switch up taco night with roasted delicata squash as the star ingredient. Toss the squash with chili powder, cumin, and smoked paprika, then serve in warm tortillas with black beans, avocado, and a sprinkle of cotija cheese.

### 8. **Delicata Squash and Farro Salad**
This hearty grain salad features roasted delicata squash, cooked farro, arugula, and feta cheese, all tossed in a lemon vinaigrette. The nutty farro and sweet squash create a satisfying contrast, making this salad a great option for meal prep or potlucks.

### 9. **Delicata Squash and Apple Casserole**
For a sweet and savory side dish, layer roasted delicata squash with thinly sliced apples, cinnamon, and a touch of brown sugar. Bake until the apples are tender and the squash is caramelized. This dish pairs well with pork or turkey and adds a touch of sweetness to your winter table.

### 10. **Delicata Squash and Chickpea Curry**
Warm up with a comforting bowl of delicata squash and chickpea curry. Simmer the squash with chickpeas, tomatoes, coconut milk, and fragrant spices like turmeric, cumin, and coriander. Serve over basmati rice or with warm naan for a satisfying meal.

### 11. **Delicata Squash Pizza with Goat Cheese**
Elevate your pizza night by topping your dough with roasted delicata squash, caramelized onions, goat cheese, and fresh arugula. The combination of sweet squash and tangy goat cheese is irresistible, and the arugula adds a peppery bite.

### 12. **Delicata Squash Risotto**
Creamy risotto is the ultimate comfort food, and adding roasted delicata squash takes it to the next level. Stir roasted squash into a classic risotto made with Arborio rice, white wine, and Parmesan cheese. The squash adds a subtle sweetness that balances the richness of the dish.

### 13. **Delicata Squash and Mushroom Stir-Fry**
For a quick and easy weeknight dinner, stir-fry delicata squash with mushrooms, garlic, and soy sauce. Serve over steamed rice or noodles for

**Oven-Roasted Delicata Squash Recipe: A Delicious and Nutritious Fall Favorite**

As the days grow cooler and the leaves begin to change, the arrival of fall brings with it a bounty of seasonal produce. One of the most beloved vegetables of the autumn harvest is delicata squash. With its sweet, nutty flavor and tender texture, delicata squash is a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of dishes. Best of all, its thin, edible skin makes it incredibly easy to prepare—no peeling required! In this article, we’ll guide you through a simple yet flavorful oven-roasted delicata squash recipe that will quickly become a staple in your fall cooking repertoire.

### What is Delicata Squash?

Delicata squash, also known as “sweet potato squash” or “peanut squash,” is a type of winter squash that is cylindrical in shape and typically has pale yellow skin with green or orange stripes. Unlike other winter squashes such as butternut or acorn squash, delicata squash has a thin, edible skin, making it much easier to prepare. Its flesh is creamy and sweet, with a flavor reminiscent of sweet potatoes or corn.

In addition to its delicious taste, delicata squash is packed with nutrients. It’s a good source of dietary fiber, vitamins A and C, potassium, and magnesium. Plus, it’s relatively low in calories, making it a healthy and satisfying addition to your meals.

### Why Roast Delicata Squash?

Roasting is one of the best ways to bring out the natural sweetness and caramelization of delicata squash. The high heat of the oven helps to concentrate the flavors, while the squash becomes tender on the inside and slightly crispy on the outside. Roasted delicata squash can be enjoyed on its own as a side dish, tossed into salads, added to grain bowls, or even used as a topping for pizza.

### Ingredients for Oven-Roasted Delicata Squash

To make this simple yet delicious dish, you’ll need just a few basic ingredients:

– **2 medium delicata squash** (about 1–1.5 pounds each)
– **2 tablespoons olive oil** (or another cooking oil of your choice, such as avocado oil)
– **1 teaspoon kosher salt** (or to taste)
– **1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper**
– **1/2 teaspoon garlic powder** (optional)
– **1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika** (optional, for added flavor)
– **Fresh herbs** such as thyme or rosemary for garnish (optional)

### Step-by-Step Instructions

#### Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Roasting at a high temperature ensures that the squash develops a nice caramelized exterior while becoming tender on the inside.

#### Step 2: Prepare the Delicata Squash
Start by washing the delicata squash thoroughly under cold water to remove any dirt or debris. Since the skin is edible, there’s no need to peel it.

Next, slice off the ends of each squash. Cut the squash in half lengthwise, and use a spoon to scoop out the seeds and stringy pulp from the center. You can discard the seeds, or save them to roast separately for a crunchy snack.

Once the squash is cleaned, slice each half into 1/2-inch thick half-moon shapes. Try to keep the slices uniform in thickness to ensure even cooking.

#### Step 3: Season the Squash
Place the sliced squash in a large mixing bowl. Drizzle with olive oil, and toss to coat the pieces evenly. Add the kosher salt, black pepper, and any additional seasonings you’d like to use, such as garlic powder or smoked paprika. Toss again to ensure the squash is well-seasoned.

#### Step 4: Arrange on a Baking Sheet
Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil for easy cleanup. Arrange the seasoned squash slices in a single layer on the baking sheet, making sure they are not overlapping. This will help them roast evenly and develop a nice golden-brown color.

#### Step 5: Roast the Squash
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and roast the squash for 20–25 minutes, flipping the slices halfway through the cooking time. The squash is done when it is tender and golden brown around the edges. If you prefer a crispier texture, you can leave it in the oven for an additional 5–10 minutes, keeping an eye on it to prevent burning.

#### Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Once the squash is roasted to perfection, remove it from the oven and transfer it to a serving dish. If desired, garnish with fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for a burst of flavor and color. Serve the roasted delicata squash warm as a side dish, or incorporate it into your favorite fall recipes.

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