Category: Asking Never Hurts

COVID Vaccines Appear Safe and Effective, but Key Questions Remain

The federal government expects vaccinations to be available to everyone who wants them by summer — though glitches are inevitable. If enough of us get vaccinated, we could wave goodbye to the pandemic in 2021.

Medicare Open Enrollment Is Complicated. Here’s How to Get Good Advice.

It’s a complex program with many options — as well as confusing rules and nuances. Here’s how to get reliable guidance.

It’s Open Enrollment. Here’s What You Need to Know

For Californians who are buying their own insurance, enrollment in 2021 health plans runs through Jan. 31.

Hospitalized? You Can Still Vote in Most Parts of the Country

Hospital staff in states such as California and New York can help patients obtain ballots and vote. In other states, you need a relative to assist you.

Telemedicine or In-Person Visit? Pros and Cons

The volume of virtual medical appointments has exploded during the pandemic as patients and doctors have sought to avoid infection through in-person visits.

Exercise and Diet Are More Important Than Ever With Virus at Large

“The Quarantine 15” — weight gain due to inactivity during the pandemic — is a real phenomenon. Here are some ways to fight it.

Wildfires Provide Another Reason to Mask Up

As the long U.S. fire season gets underway, it’s even more important for Western residents to have a good face mask. Unfortunately, most of the masks we’re wearing for COVID-19 aren’t great for smoke.

You Can See Friends and Relatives During the Pandemic Surge — But Do It Carefully

Even as most U.S. states and authorities reimpose many of the restrictions they had prematurely lifted, public health experts say you can still have a safe social life — just not the one you were used to before the pandemic hit.

Society Is Reopening. Prepare To Hunker Down At Home Again.

First, businesses started to reopen; then racial justice protesters flooded the streets. Social distancing is beginning to fade. Are you ready for a second wave of COVID-19 infections ― and a renewed lockdown?

Good Rehab Is Hard To Find

Helping a loved one overcome addiction isn’t easy. Start by listening to people who have been through it. They can help find effective treatment and avoid unethical or incompetent operators.