November is Diabetes Awareness Month. In fiscal year 2022, approximately 1 in 6 of our active employee and early retiree Group Health Insurance Plan (GHIP) members had an episode of treatment for diabetes or an indication of pre-diabetes at a cost of over $126.4 million dollars and representing over 15.1% of total healthcare expenditures. Diabetes puts people at risk for nerve damage, cardiovascular disease, foot and limb injuries, vision problems, and other complications that arise from having uncontrolled blood sugar. Diabetes also raises a person’s risk of having severe symptoms and complications from COVID-19. The good news is that prediabetes and diabetes are treatable. Information about diabetes prevention and management resources available to members of a State of Delaware non-Medicare health plan can be found on the Diabetes Resources page.

The Blood Bank of Delmarva (BBD) recently announced a blood emergency, and they desperately need people to donate blood and make appointments for the near future. The sustained loss of young and first-time donors, fewer organizations hosting blood drives, and remote and blended work schedules have a devastating impact on our local blood supply and the nation’s blood supply. There is no surplus in the nation’s blood supply to help centers that experience seasonal shortages. And there is no replacement for human blood. The blood donation process is safe – all state, federal, and FDA guidelines are strictly followed to ensure the safety of blood donors and the BBD staff. Donors must be 16 or older, weigh at least 110 pounds, and be in good general health. The limits that used to exist for tattoos, body piercing, sexual identity, and time spent in Europe have all changed, so please visit delmarvablood.org for more information and to check eligibility.

Please consider scheduling an appointment to donate today... and ask a family member, friend, or coworker to do the same. Other than a short time commitment, there is no cost to you. The blood collected supports the 19 local hospitals along the Delmarva Peninsula. To schedule an appointment, visit BBD's website or call 1-888-825-6638.