Posted inCOVID, Health, News, Technology

Beyond Zoom: Virtual therapy’s next generation has Bluetooth pulse monitors and more

When patients sign up for the newest kind of therapy at the Mental Health Center of Denver, here’s what comes in their welcome packet:  A biofeedback device that clips to their ear to measure pulse and blood-oxygen levels. A phone stand to prop up a smartphone during therapy sessions. And directions for downloading an app […]

Posted inColoradans, COVID, Health

Coronavirus moved some substance treatment services online in Colorado — possibly permanently

Kara Bonham was already struggling with alcohol consumption, depression and anxiety when the pandemic forced her life into overdrive. She had a high-stress job as a first responder in Fort Collins. On top of that, her older sister, who also struggles with alcohol, had recently been diagnosed with end-stage liver failure. As Bonham saw it, […]

Posted inBusiness, COVID, Health, Politics and Government

“It saved us”: A recent infusion of federal funds is helping Colorado’s rural hospitals stay afloat

A recent infusion of federal funds is providing much-needed relief for rural hospitals already under financial pressure when the coronavirus crisis hit Colorado.  Though hospital administrators say the emergency funds will provide immediate support, there is uncertainty around how and when the funds can be used, specifically if they can be used to make up […]

Posted inOpinion, Opinion Columns

Opinion: How technology is shaping the brave new world of health care in the coronavirus era

While we are fighting the battle against COVID-19 and adjusting to the new normal, technology is helping to rewrite the playbook of the health care industry. Modeling, artificial intelligence, remote monitoring and chat bots are paving the way for a better tomorrow.  If you haven’t yet connected to a doctor remotely via an app, chances […]

Posted inCOVID, Education, Health, Technology

What happens to school-based health care in Colorado when schools close because of coronavirus?

The Arnold family had just gotten on top of anxiety issues disrupting the happiness of their two children, ages 10 and 7, and were “weaning” away from their beloved school-based counselors, when COVID-19 hit. For a 7-year-old nervously clinging to routine for solace, a sudden dictum that school won’t meet for the rest of the […]

Posted inBusiness, Health, News

Coronavirus panic has fueled the telehealth revolution in Colorado — and we won’t go back

Colorado patients visiting their doctors virtually through video links, phone calls or online chats are up more than 2,000% in some larger health systems during the COVID-19 crisis, easing life for consumers and promising permanent changes long after the virus is gone. Turning a short-term necessity into a long-term virtue for consumers and providers, the […]

Posted inCOVID, Health, News

Mental health care in Colorado has gone virtual thanks to coronavirus. For some patients, it’s long overdue.

Deby Williamson used to take note of her clients’ body language and the vibe that filled the room when they came to see her for mental health therapy. That’s not happening now, since she meets them via computer.  Williamson, a licensed clinical social worker in private practice in Colorado Springs, is one of thousands of […]

Posted inBusiness, COVID, News

Here’s where the jobs are in Colorado as unemployment surges during coronavirus’ economic meltdown

On Wednesday, the Mesa County Workforce Center job hotline shared nine new jobs, including one for a full-time engineer earning $6,322 a month. A day earlier, there were five new ones, including a part-time youth services specialist paying $22.62 an hour. There’s been a steady flow of new job listings as the shutdown to slow […]