Trump, tech giants want to make it easier to share health records: What it means for you
Technology giants Apple, Amazon, Google and Open AI as well as health industries companies UnitedHealth Group and CVS Health are among more than 60 companies that have agreed to develop standards to share health information across computer systems.
Trump touted the idea of eliminating redundancies such as filling out paperwork at multiple health providers offices.
"This will allow patients to easily transmit information from one doctor to another," Trump said during a July 30 briefing with Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. and Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services Administrator Mehmet Oz.
Trump emphasized the initiative will be voluntary and require patients to opt in. He added there will be no centralized, government-run database storing patients' personal records.
"People are very concerned about the personal records," Trump said. "That's their choice ... it will be absolutely quiet."
Large hospital systems and some doctors allow patients to share health information, fill out forms and schedule appointments through websites and mobile apps. And health tech companies have developed apps that allow people to track their health information, but these apps often can't access medical records from health providers, said Amy Gleason, acting administrator of the Department of Government Efficiency, or DOGE.
Companies operating 21 networks have agreed to an "interoperability framework" to meet Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services criteria, according to the Trump administration. Hospital systems and electronic health records vendors have agreed to cooperate in the effort, according to CMS.
Participating apps would help people manage obesity and diabetes, including the use of AI assistants to help check symptoms or schedule appointments, CMS said.
Privacy, data security remain top worries
The health care industry and tech companies have been attempting to reduce paperwork and seamlessly share electronic health records for three decades, said Chris Pierson, CEO of BlackCloak, an Orlando, Florida-based cybersecurity company.
Hospitals, doctors, labs and vendors that directly handle such sensitive medical records are subject to a federal privacy law, called the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act, or HIPAA.
To make health information and records more portable and accessible, consumers need to be guaranteed strong privacy protections and granted control over what information is shared, Pierson said.
A consumer might be willing to share their sensitive information with doctors, hospitals or labs. But the same person might want to block an app from sharing records with third parties such as exercise equipment vendors or nutritional supplement retailers.
Pierson said such apps would likely still need to comply with HIPAA and other federal and state laws. Given that the apps are voluntary and require consent, they likely would comply with privacy laws, Pierson said.
Companies also would need to safeguard information technology security to protect the sensitive information from data breaches.
Hackers target health records
Digital medical records are a popular target for hackers seeking sensitive health information, bank records and a person's identifiable information such as dates of birth and Social Security numbers.
The number of attacks has surged in recent years and are often carried out by organized hackers, often operating overseas, who target the computer systems of health providers and the vendors and companies that serve them.
HHS investigates whether breaches involve violations of health information privacy and security laws and publicly reports attacks that affect 500 or more on its website.
In July alone, more than two dozen data breaches compromised the records of more than 3 million people, HHS records show.
The largest hack in recent years involved the February 2024 attack on UnitedHealth-owned subsidiary Change Healthcare. The attack disrupted the health care industry because doctors and hospitals were unable to collect payments for weeks when computer systems went down.
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What is a superfood? Dietitians weigh in on 11 nutrient-dense foods
These foods pack in the vitamins, minerals and antioxidants you need to stay healthy and energized. As a registered dietitian, I'm frequently asked about the latest "it" food everyone should be eating. From chia seeds to mushrooms, various foods have been awarded the title of "superfood" thanks to their exceptional nutritional value. But what exactly is a superfood? The term "superfood" became popular around 2011, and unlike other nutrition trends, the idea of superfoods has shown real staying power. In fact, thanks to continued consumer interest in supplements, especially greens powders, superfoods have only become more popular over the past decade. Invoking images of food-like superheroes, superfoods are often portrayed as magic bullets for better health. Unfortunately, as all of our experts point out, there's not a single food solution to losing weight or reducing your risk of chronic disease. Still, that doesn't mean superfoods aren't worthy of praise. According to Florida-based dietitian Johannah Katz, "While I think the word 'superfood' is overused and largely a marketing term, there are certain foods that are exceptionally nutrient-dense that provide a high concentration of vitamins, minerals, antioxidants or other beneficial compounds that promote health." We spoke with seven dietitians to better understand what makes a food "super" and which ones you should add to your plate for a healthy diet and overall wellness. Table of contents What makes a food a 'superfood'? Health-promoting powers of superfoods 11 superfoods to add to your diet, according to dietitians FAQs Meet our experts (Back to top) What makes a food a 'superfood'? According to Amy Margulies, a Philadelphia-based nutrition expert and owner of the Rebellious RD, "'Superfood' is a term used by many food and beverage companies to promote foods thought to have health benefits. However, the Food and Drug Administration does not officially define the word." While there's no scientific definition of a superfood, our experts agree that the term is generally applied to whole foods that contain an impressive resume of nutrients relative to their calories. "A superfood is packed with nutrients that go above and beyond in terms of health benefits. We're talking about foods dense in vitamins, minerals and antioxidants — essentially, they offer a big nutritional punch in a small package," explains dietitian Julie Lichtman. As Megan Huff of Nutrition by Megan and Lisa Andrews point out, these foods are often associated with reducing inflammation, supporting immune health and protecting against chronic diseases like heart disease and Alzheimer's. Health-promoting powers of superfoods Superfoods have a high concentration of vitamins, minerals, antioxidants and other beneficial plant compounds. For this reason, these foods are linked to numerous benefits for the eyes, heart, brain, gut, skin, hair and immune health. Many superfoods have also been associated with reducing chronic inflammation and protecting against chronic diseases, including heart disease, type 2 diabetes, Alzheimer's disease and certain types of cancer. Still, it's important to remember that these foods aren't cure-alls. "While certain foods are rich in nutrients and provide targeted health benefits, no single food or nutrient can address all health needs," Katz says. "Optimal health relies on the synergy between various nutrients and food groups, meaning that eating a variety of foods is essential to ensure your body gets everything it needs to function properly." (Back to top) 11 superfoods to add to your diet, according to dietitians Ready to level up your nutrition? Here are 11 dietitian-approved superfoods that can pack a serious nutrient punch. 1. Dark leafy greens Dark leafy greens are the epitome of a superfood. Despite being low in calories, these veggies are excellent sources of essential nutrients, including zinc, iron, magnesium, calcium folate, vitamin K and vitamin C. They're also high in fiber and contain high levels of carotenoids, plant-based compounds with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Daily intake of leafy green vegetables has been associated with a reduced incidence of heart disease and may help slow cognitive decline that occurs with age. Dark leafy greens include kale, spinach, collard greens, Swiss chard and turnip greens. These greens are impressively versatile and can be added to salads, smoothies, soups, curries, stir-fries, dips and pasta sauces. 2. Berries Berries stand out from other types of fruit for their relatively low sugar and calorie content and high concentration of vitamins, minerals, fiber and antioxidants. Specifically, berries, like blueberries, cranberries, acai berries and raspberries, are high in phenolic compounds, including anthocyanins and flavonols, which have been linked with benefits for brain, eye, heart and metabolic health. For these reasons, berries are a staple of the so-called MIND diet, developed by scientists to slow the progression of cognitive disorders including Parkinson's and Alzheimer's diseases. Margulies highlighted berries, specifically strawberries, as a top superfood. "As a low-sugar, low-calorie, high-fiber food, strawberries are a sweet way to help you stay full following a meal or snack. A superfood bonus: A new review study found that eating strawberries daily may improve cognitive function in older adults, lower blood pressure and boost antioxidant capacity. It is a win-win for this sweet, tasty and versatile fruit." 3. Cruciferous vegetables Cruciferous vegetables include broccoli, cabbage, Brussels sprouts, cauliflower and many other vegetables in the Brassica genus. While they vary in nutritional content, this family of vegetables is known for being rich in glucosinolates, plant compounds with anticancer effects. In addition to potentially protecting against certain types of cancer, research suggests that diets high in glucosinolates may help reduce the risk of chronic diseases including high blood pressure and type 2 diabetes. Like dark leafy greens, cruciferous vegetables are low in calories yet high in fiber, folate and vitamins C and K. Broccoli sprouts are one of Katz's top superfood recommendations. According to Katz, "Broccoli sprouts [are] the most potent natural source of sulforaphane, a compound that activates a transcription factor called NRF2. NRF2 is a critical regulator of cellular defense, detoxification and oxidative stress. Sulforaphane also helps to significantly reduce chronic inflammation by suppressing inflammatory pathways." 4. Salmon This orange-fleshed fish is known for being one of the best sources of omega-3 fatty acids, essential fats critical for brain, joint and immune health. Omega-3s also play a major role in reducing inflammation, which in turn helps protect against chronic diseases. "Salmon is one of the richest sources of EPA and DHA (two types of omega-3s), and also a low-mercury fish option. [One] 3-ounce [portion] offers 22 grams of protein and is also a great source of vitamin D, iron, selenium, astaxanthin and B vitamins," explains Katz. While pan-seared salmon filets are an easy, healthy dinner option, canned salmon is a great budget-friendly alternative that can be used in sandwiches, spread over whole grain crackers or formed into patties. 5. Nuts and seeds Small in size, nuts and seeds are heavyweights in the nutrition world. In addition to fiber and protein, nuts and seeds are rich in antioxidant compounds and heart-healthy fats. Charleston, S.C.-based dietitian Lauren Manaker picked walnuts as one of her must-have superfoods. "Walnuts are often hailed as a superfood due to their impressive nutritional profile, particularly their concentration of ALA omega-3 fatty acids. Alpha-linolenic acid (ALA) is a plant-based omega-3 fatty acid that may play a role in heart health, as data suggests this nutrient is linked to a reduction in inflammation and improved heart health measures. Beyond heart health, ALA has been linked to benefits for brain function," says Manaker. Seeds, including chia, flax and pumpkin seeds, were also mentioned by several of our experts, thanks to their impressive nutrition stats. These seeds are rich sources of calcium, magnesium, phosphorus, zinc, B vitamins and ALA omega-3s. 6. Avocados "This creamy fruit is unlike any other. Avocados' healthy fats and vitamin A can help keep skin smooth and healthy. Avocados are full of fiber, which helps keep digestion regular and pleases your appetite. The vitamin E in avocados can help support healthy aging and protect against age-related eye damage," explains Margulies. Avocados are also a great way to add a creamy, satisfying texture to meals, making them a good substitute for cheese or higher-fat condiments in sandwiches. 7. Legumes Legumes are plant-based foods that include beans, lentils, peas, soybeans, alfalfa and peanuts. As a dietitian, they're one of my favorite superfoods. Not only are legumes widely available, but they're also shelf-stable and affordable, making them a realistic option for virtually any budget. Legumes, especially beans and lentils, are rich in fiber, B vitamins, zinc, magnesium, potassium and iron. They're also a great source of plant-based protein. Regular consumption of legumes has been linked with a reduced risk of heart disease, type 2 diabetes and certain types of cancer, including breast and prostate cancer. Because of their high fiber content, legumes may also help with achieving and maintaining a healthy weight. Just keep in mind that most legumes should be cooked before eating. Not only does cooking make them easier to digest, but it also reduces compounds in legumes that can interfere with the absorption of other nutrients. 8. Sweet potatoes Delicious roasted or mashed, sweet potatoes are another budget-friendly option worthy of the superfood title. According to Manaker, "Sweet potatoes are a good source of vitamins A and C, both of which are potent antioxidants that help support the immune system and maintain healthy skin. Additionally, sweet potatoes are a source of dietary fiber, which aids digestion and helps regulate blood sugar levels. The presence of significant amounts of manganese supports bone health and metabolism. Moreover, sweet potatoes contain various other important nutrients, such as potassium. Their lower glycemic index and anti-inflammatory properties further enhance their status as a superfood." 9. Fermented dairy Fermented dairy products, particularly yogurt and kefir, are excellent sources of probiotics and calcium. In addition to supporting gut health, fermented dairy has been linked with benefits for bone and heart health and may also help reduce your risk of type 2 diabetes and certain forms of cancer. When selecting yogurt or kefir, look for options that are low in or free of added sugars. Greek- and Icelandic-style yogurts in particular can be good choices because they tend to be higher in protein and lower in sugar than traditional flavored yogurt. 10. Tofu Tofu is one of the best plant-based protein options made of condensed soy milk. In addition to containing all nine essential amino acids (making it a complete protein), tofu offers an impressive lineup of vitamins and minerals, including calcium, selenium, manganese, zinc, magnesium and iron. However, most of tofu's health benefits are attributed to its high isoflavone content. Isoflavones are natural plant compounds that have been linked with a reduced risk of osteoporosis and certain types of cancer, including breast and endometrial cancer. Dietitian Amy Brownstein lists tofu as one of her top two superfoods. "It is a great source of calcium, iron and protein. Plus, it is incredibly versatile: blend it in smoothies, soups or sauces for a nutrition boost." 11. Green tea While not technically a food, green tea rounds out our list of best superfoods for its impressive concentration of antioxidant and anti-inflammatory compounds. Green tea is particularly known for being rich in epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), an antioxidant that may protect against chronic diseases including type 2 diabetes, heart disease and certain forms of cancer. Studies suggest that green tea may also be helpful for weight loss. There's a wide variety of green teas, including matcha powder. Unlike regular green tea, plants used for matcha are grown away from direct sunlight, producing a higher concentration of antioxidants. (Back to top) FAQs Are superfood powders as good as whole foods? While superfood powders may offer a more concentrated source of specific nutrients, it's unknown whether they provide the same health benefits as whole foods. It's also important to keep in mind that they're typically lower in fiber and other beneficial nutrients present in whole foods. Ultimately, while superfood powders can help bridge nutrient gaps, they aren't a replacement for whole foods in a balanced diet. Can superfoods help with weight loss? Lisa Andrews explains that superfoods can be helpful for losing weight when paired with a reduced-calorie diet. "Superfoods may aid with weight loss by providing low-fat sources of protein or good sources of fiber to help a person feel fuller. In addition, if you're eating more vegetables or sources of lean protein, you're likely eating less ultra-processed, high-calorie foods," says Andrews. Are superfoods worth the hype? According to Julie Lichtman, "Superfoods deserve attention for their nutritional benefits but they're not the end-all, be-all of healthy eating. They can be a helpful boost, but the real magic happens when you combine them with a varied, whole food diet. So yes, they're worth it — but keep the bigger picture in mind." (Back to top) Meet our experts Lisa Andrews, MEd, RD, LD, founder of Sound Bites Nutrition, Ohio Amy Brownstein, MS, RDN, owner of Nutrition Digested, Utah Megan Huff, RDN of Nutrition by Megan, Maryland Johannah Katz, MA, RD, LDN, Florida Julie Lichtman, RD, LDN, Philadelphia Lauren Manaker, MS, RDN LD, Charleston, S.C. Amy Margulies, RD, CDCES, LDN, NBC-HWC, nutrition expert and owner of the Rebellious RD, Philadelphia Our health content is for informational purposes only and is not intended as professional medical advice. Consult a medical professional on questions about your health.
Yahoo
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RespiClear Becomes 2025's Most Talked-About Lung Support Ritual as '7s Mucus Flush' Trend Explodes Across TikTok and Long COVID Forums
Backed by 78,000+ Daily Users, This Clean-Label Lung Ritual Taps 2025's Mucus Reset Trend—No Inhalers, No Prescriptions, Just 7 Seconds a Day Tampa, Aug. 04, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- DISCLAIMER: This press release is for informational purposes only. The information contained herein does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment and has not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). RespiClear is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Always consult your physician or qualified healthcare provider before beginning any new supplement, routine, or health links in this release may be promotional in nature and may lead to third-party websites. The publisher or author may receive compensation through affiliate commissions if a purchase is made through these links. This compensation does not affect the price you pay and helps support continued research and content publication. Results described or implied may not be typical and should not be interpreted as made about ingredients or outcomes reflect public discussion and historical usage only, and are not endorsed by medical professionals or regulatory agencies. Always do your own research and make informed decisions. RespiClear Becomes 2025's Most Talked-About Lung Support Ritual as '7s Mucus Flush' Trend Explodes Across TikTok and Long COVID Forums In an era where environmental stress, urban air quality, and post-viral fatigue dominate wellness conversations, one ritual is quietly changing the way Americans think about breathing. The buzz? A simple 7-second daily lung routine powered by RespiClear, a clean-label formula now used by over 78,000 with mucolytic herbs like Mullein, Ginger, and Cordyceps, RespiClear supports those seeking clearer breath, lighter mornings, and long-term respiratory confidence — without prescriptions, powders, or Interest in '7s Ritual Clears Stuck Mucus' Is Surging in 2025 The viral interest in short-form rituals and natural breathing remedies has collided with the global need for respiratory recovery. As more people turn away from pharmaceutical-first approaches, they are embracing simple, integrative health routines they can control. RespiClear fits into this evolving health narrative by providing a structured, easy-to-implement ritual that aligns with what digital audiences want: low friction, high impact. Social platforms are increasingly flooded with testimonials and trend-spotting videos featuring phrases like "mucus flush," "breathing hack," and "clean lung ritual." The rise in attention is not merely hype — it reflects a growing concern over residual respiratory symptoms post-illness, as well as an increased desire to offset everyday air pollution, wildfire exposure, and indoor toxin buildup. These conversations, while anecdotal, are informing how millions view respiratory health in 2025. RespiClear's Ingredient-First Response to These Trends What sets RespiClear apart in this movement isn't just what's inside the formula — it's how the product is positioned. RespiClear does not promise medical outcomes, but rather contributes to a broader movement of proactive daily wellness. The sublingual format delivers the plant-based ingredients quickly, a nod to both modern efficiency and traditional herbalism. As part of a trend emphasizing radical transparency, RespiClear lists every ingredient, dose, and third-party verification step. Consumers can trace the product from source to supplement — a critical factor in building trust at a time when misinformation and wellness fatigue are rampant. More than a product, RespiClear is a reflection of what today's health-conscious individual wants: simplicity, integrity, and data-backed natural formulations. In addition to excluding stimulants, allergens, and questionable additives, the formula is designed for long-term daily use, reinforcing the shift from reactive care to continuous support. Ingredient Spotlight – What's Inside the Formula RespiClear's formulation is a showcase of historically relevant, globally respected ingredients that have seen renewed interest in recent years. Each ingredient is dosed in a way that reflects its respected usage in wellness traditions and is supported by observational discussion in public health forums. Mullein Leaf Extract (1,000 mg) – Used for centuries as a tea for easing cough and congestion, mullein is currently enjoying a renaissance. RespiClear's version is highly bioavailable, liquified for easy delivery and maximal absorption. Ginger Root Extract (100 mg) – Popular in both Eastern and Western traditions, ginger is associated with circulation, digestive relief, and airway clarity. Its inclusion is based on its role in helping users feel open-chested and warmed. Bromelain (50 mg) – Often found in sports recovery products, bromelain supports the breakdown of proteins and is valued for tissue wellness — particularly in high-stress respiratory situations. Lemon Peel Extract (25 mg) – With high concentrations of natural antioxidants, lemon peel is a crowd-favorite in discussions around immune resilience and cellular protection. Cordyceps militaris (25 mg) – As an adaptogen, cordyceps has grown popular among performance optimizers and long-COVID recoverees alike. It is explored for its relationship with oxygen processing and vitality. Collectively, these ingredients form a coherent and intentional stack. They're not designed to replace medicine — they offer a structured entry point for those seeking lung support via natural Reddit, Podcasts & TikTok Creators Are Saying RespiClear's rise in popularity isn't driven by advertising — it's fueled by thousands of anecdotal micro-mentions from communities that trade wellness tips peer-to-peer. On TikTok, creators frequently highlight the product in morning ritual videos or "what's in my bag" wellness rundowns. Reddit's wellness subforums feature in-depth user experiences detailing RespiClear's impact on congestion, focus, and even emotional clarity. Podcasts hosted by holistic health educators, performance coaches, and yoga therapists often include RespiClear in 'non-invasive support tools' lists. The language is consistent: RespiClear doesn't fix everything — but it helps people feel more in control of their breath, especially after difficult seasons of respiratory stress. Importantly, users are not framing the product in clinical terms. Instead, the product shows up as part of a mindset shift — one where simplicity, consistency, and breath awareness are becoming foundational. Who Might Be Drawn to This Type of Supplementation in 2025 While the audience for RespiClear is wide-ranging, certain demographics are leading adoption: Post-viral recovery groups who want gentle, everyday routines that feel empowering Older adults and ex-smokers focused on daily lung hygiene and resilience Urban professionals navigating poor indoor air quality, wildfire smoke, and long hours Fitness and wellness enthusiasts who use breath as a foundation for movement and recovery Spiritual communities drawn to breath as a sacred component of calm, control, and emotional stability These audiences are not defined by illness — they are defined by a desire to optimize wellness preventatively. For this reason, RespiClear often becomes part of broader lifestyle rituals that include stretching, mindfulness, hydration, and clean eating. 5 Steps to Support Lung Health (and Why RespiClear Complements Them) While no supplement can replace smart lifestyle choices, RespiClear is structured to align perfectly with the five most recommended practices in 2025 for protecting respiratory integrity: Quit Smoking: The #1 recommendation. Removing tobacco toxins allows the lungs to regenerate over time. RespiClear users who have recently quit say it helps them stay motivated by giving them an immediate, supportive action each day. Daily Movement: Light cardiovascular exercise expands lung capacity, clears stale air, and supports circulation. RespiClear's energizing, clear-breath feel pairs well with morning walks, yoga, or breathwork. Antioxidant Nutrition: Flavonoids reduce systemic inflammation. RespiClear complements these effects with ingredients like ginger and lemon, which are already valued for their antioxidant properties. Clean Air Exposure: In urban areas where clean air is rare, RespiClear users report a sense of protection after returning from travel, fires, or heavily polluted cities. Breath Practice: Deep breathing resets the nervous system. Users often take their RespiClear dose right before meditation or breath training for synergy. This is what makes RespiClear unique: it is not positioned as a cure — it is an amplifier of the most essential health Optimization & Detox Culture: Where RespiClear Fits In Wellness is not just about the body — it's about mental, emotional, and spiritual lightness in 2025. RespiClear appears increasingly in conversations about: 'Third-lung cleansing' in energy work Daily routines designed to calm the nervous system through somatic breathing Post-psychedelic integration practices where breath is used to ground and center Its presence in these communities is not because of marketing, but because it fulfills a demand: something subtle, safe, and supportive. With no caffeine, no overstimulation, and no gut disturbance, RespiClear is often used during fasting windows, pre-sleep wind-downs, or pre-yoga grounding. Public Debate Around 'Mucus Formulas' — Caution Meets Curiosity RespiClear's popularity has not shielded it from scrutiny. Critics have raised questions about the legitimacy of mucus-targeting products and whether claims made by influencers overstate the experience. The brand has responded by doubling down on transparency. Their website includes detailed sourcing, dosage explanations, and third-party test protocols — uncommon in the supplement space. It's a bet on intelligence and trust: by giving users all the facts, they invite scrutiny as a sign of integrity. Wellness forums now often cite RespiClear as a "test case" for whether natural lung supplements can carve out a legitimate category — not as miracle pills, but as daily partners in long-term breath clarity. About RespiClear RespiClear is a U.S.-manufactured natural formula designed to support daily breath clarity, mucus management, and clean-label supplementation. The company behind RespiClear believes in empowering individuals with proactive tools that foster calm, clarity, and long-term wellness. Every batch is: GMP certified and third-party tested Packaged with a 180-day satisfaction guarantee Shipped within the U.S. with transparent customer support With a mission to improve breathing for 1,000,000 Americans, RespiClear is a quiet but growing part of 2025's shift toward breathable living. Contact RespiClear – Clean-Label Lung Support Backed by Transparency Email: support@ Phone: (833) 576-9777 Website: FINAL DISCLAIMER This press release is for informational purposes only. The information contained herein does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment and has not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). RespiClear is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Always consult your physician or qualified healthcare provider before beginning any new supplement, routine, or health program. Some links in this release may be promotional in nature and may lead to third-party websites. The publisher or author may receive compensation through affiliate commissions if a purchase is made through these links. This compensation does not affect the price you pay and helps support continued research and content publication. Results described or implied may not be typical and should not be interpreted as guarantees. Statements made about ingredients or outcomes reflect public discussion and historical usage only, and are not endorsed by medical professionals or regulatory agencies. Always do your own research and make informed decisions. CONTACT: Email: support@ Phone: (833) 576-9777
Business Wire
2 hours ago
- Business Wire
Family Health Services of Darke County and AndHealth Celebrate Ribbon Cutting and Launch of Retail + Specialty Pharmacy at Expanded Greenville Location
GREENVILLE, Ohio--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Family Health Services of Darke County and AndHealth will celebrate the opening of Family Health Services' retail and specialty pharmacy on Thursday, August 7 th at 4:00 PM. The ribbon cutting will take place at Family Health Services' newly expanded Greenville facility, located at 5735 Meeker Road, and will be followed by an open house from 5:00 – 8:00 PM featuring light refreshments, family-friendly activities, and tours of the renovated space. "With this expansion, we're not just adding services, we're closing care gaps and removing barriers to health for our neighbors.' This milestone marks a major step forward in Family Health Services' mission of Building Healthy Lives Together. This expansion adds 44,000 square feet of clinical space, modernizes the patient experience, and introduces expanded pharmacy services, including the launch of Darke County's only specialty pharmacy. These enhancements will significantly improve access for patients managing chronic and complex conditions, particularly those impacted by long-standing pharmacy shortages in rural Ohio. Family Health Services' specialty pharmacy services are powered by a partnership with AndHealth, a Columbus-based healthcare company that helps CHCs radically improve access and outcomes to specialty care. Ohioans can now fill their prescriptions directly through Family Health Services' pharmacy, where affordable medications are available to all patients under Family Health Service's sliding fee scale. 'There is an immense value in having specialty care and pharmacy services directly within our community,' said Jared Polick, Executive Director and CEO of Family Health Services. 'Residents of Darke County will now be able to receive care close to home and have the personal support of local clinical pharmacists and specialists. With this expansion, we're not just adding services, we're closing care gaps and removing barriers to health for our neighbors.' The updated Greenville facility now offers integrated medical, behavioral health, dental, rheumatology, dermatology, neurology, and pharmacy services under one roof – creating a true whole-person care environment that prioritizes convenience, coordination, and affordability. Addressing Ohio's Pharmacy Deserts and Improving Medication Access According to new data 1 released by the Ohio Board of Pharmacy, pharmacy closures have accelerated, and the state has lost hundreds of pharmacies over the past several years, leaving Ohioans with less than 2,000 retail pharmacies. Nearly 2 million Ohioans live in 'pharmacy deserts', or areas that lack convenient access to a pharmacy. 2 These access deserts disproportionately impact individuals in socially vulnerable communities, who face additional barriers to access and care, making the role of pharmacies located at CHCs even more central to improving community health in Ohio. AndHealth partners with Community Health Centers (CHCs) like Family Health Services to expand access to care by addressing pharmacy and care deserts. 'Ensuring our patients have access to affordable medications can only be accomplished when we reverse the trend of pharmacy consolidation and closure,' said Brenda Reitz, Family Health Services' Pharmacy Director. 'This pharmacy expansion allows us to support the community in new ways and ensures our neighbors needs can be met right here in Darke County.' Family Health Services' ribbon cutting will take place at its 5935 Meeker Rd location in Greenville at 4:00 P.M. on August 7 th with an open house to follow from 5:00 – 8:00 PM. The event is open to all, and guests are encouraged to RSVP by contacting Kalie Riffle at kriffle@ About Family Health Services Family Health Services is a Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC) dedicated to building healthier lives through integrated, affordable care. With locations across Darke County, FHS provides comprehensive services – including medical, dental, behavioral health, specialty care, and pharmacy – to patients of all ages, regardless of insurance status or ability to pay. To learn more, visit About AndHealth AndHealth helps Community Health Centers (CHCs) radically improve access and outcomes for patients in specialty care and specialty pharmacy, while becoming an even larger and more clinically integrated part of our healthcare system. This Whole-Person Community Care Model provides everything CHCs need to deliver in-house specialty care and specialty pharmacy, built for the unique needs of our medically underserved populations. The model provides CHCs with more patients, more clinical capabilities, alignment with health systems, and sustainable reimbursement and funding that restores the integrity of the patient's medical home and their critical reimbursement model—both having shifted away from CHCs through external specialty referrals and contract pharmacies. In restoring this integrity, CHCs can tear down barriers to care and stretch scarce federal resources to reach more patients with comprehensive services that weren't possible before and that are desperately needed by patients. Headquartered in Columbus, Ohio, AndHealth is led by former CoverMyMeds co-founder and CEO Matt Scantland and the team that built Ohio's first healthcare technology unicorn, who have dedicated their lives to transformative innovation that improves access for patients. AndHealth is supported by key investors including the American Medical Association's innovation subsidiary, Francisco Partners, and the state of Ohio's economic development organization. To learn more, visit
