The Buzz

As the new year begins, many families find themselves in a familiar in-between space. The holidays are winding down and everyday routines haven’t quite settled back into place yet. This transition can feel busy, quiet, or a little of both — but it’s also a moment to pause and think about your family’s needs.

More than just the end of the calendar year, December is a good time to take stock of your health — and take small, meaningful actions before the next year begins. You don’t need drastic resolutions. Just a few changes can make a real difference.

When people think about diabetes care, they often picture doctor’s visits, lab tests, and medication changes. But for many patients, the person who makes the biggest difference isn’t someone they see in an exam room — it’s the one calling to check in between visits. For Hill Physicians Virtual Clinical Pharmacist Mohini Suchak, PharmD, that in-between space is where the real work happens.

As fall approaches, so does open enrollment — the annual window when you can sign up for health insurance, adjust your current plan or make changes to fit your needs for the coming year. While many people think of open enrollment only in terms of doctors and coverage, it’s also a chance to ensure your plan supports your mental health and overall well-being.

Every October, pink ribbons pop up everywhere signaling Breast Cancer Awareness Month. But behind the symbols are millions of people whose lives have been affected by the disease in one way or another. Awareness isn’t just about ribbons; it’s about conversations, early detection, and making sure everyone has the same access to lifesaving care.

August is National Immunization Awareness Month, a reminder that vaccines aren’t just for kids — they’re a key part of staying healthy at every stage of life. From your baby’s first shots to adult boosters and senior protection, immunizations are one of the easiest and most effective ways to prevent serious illness and protect the people you love. This month is a great time to revisit what vaccines do, why they matter and how they support both individual health and community well-being.

As the school year approaches, many families experience a familiar mix of excitement and anticipation, often accompanied by some stress. Children may feel overwhelmed by new teachers, unfamiliar routines or social pressures. At the same time, parents are navigating their own challenges. Balancing professional responsibilities while supporting children through this transition can add an extra layer of pressure. The good news? With thoughtful planning, open communication and some practical strategies, both kids and parents can ease the shift and start the school year feeling more grounded and prepared.

Summer might be inching toward its final stretch, but the sun is still shining bright — and your skin still needs protection. Whether you’re soaking in the last beach weekends or just running errands, UV rays are still at work and can cause damage year-round. Let’s talk sunscreen — not just slathering it on but really knowing how it works and why it matters.

Now that summer’s here, getting outside feels even better — longer days, warmer weather and of course, more sunshine. And with that extra sun comes an important health benefit: vitamin D, also known as the “sunshine vitamin.” But as much as we need vitamin D, getting it from the sun isn’t always simple — and sometimes being in the sun too long can cause more harm than good. Luckily, there are plenty of ways to get your daily dose safely.