CYPRESS, Calif.–UnitedHealthcare, a UnitedHealth Group company, has named Dr. Sandra Bruce Nichols chief medical officer, West Region.

DR. SANDRA BRUCE NICHOLS

Dr. Bruce Nichols will focus on helping ensure access to and use of appropriate medical services for UnitedHealthcare plan participants, promoting quality clinical care and positive patient outcomes, and effectively managing health care costs.  She will also maintain relationships with contracted physicians and physician organizations throughout the region and collaborate with other staff physicians to achieve quality objectives.

As part of its commitment to ensure access to primary care and enhance key community-based services, UPMC announced the expansion of a number of health and wellness initiatives for the greater Braddock community.

Expanded evening and Saturday office hours at the Braddock Family Health Center, 404 Braddock Ave., are being made possible through a new partnership with UPMC Health Plan. The expanded services include Tuesday and Thursday evenings until 9 p.m., and Saturdays from 11 a.m.-3 p.m.

(AP)—At least a half-dozen states are considering measures that would toughen restrictions on young athletes returning to play after head injuries, inspired by individual cases and the attention the issue has received in the NFL.

The state of Washington led the way last year, passing what is considered the nation’s strongest return-to-play statute. Athletes under 18 who show concussion symptoms can’t take the field again without a licensed health care provider’s written approval. Several other states, including California and Pennsylvania, have similar bills pending.

For women, heart disease prevention remains critical, particularly for younger ages, despite the fact that awareness is at an all time high. More than ever, women know that heart disease is their No. 1 killer, yet millions still underestimate their personal risk and the impact can be devastating. African-American women, in particular, are disproportionately affected by heart disease and have higher rates for some of its risk factors.

As we approach National Wear Red Day on Feb. 5, Americans are encouraged to wear red to remind women that heart disease is their No. 1 killer. The Red Dress is the national symbol for women and heart disease awareness. Wear a red shirt, tie, dress or a Red Dress Pin on this national day to help inspire women to take action to reduce their risk for heart disease.