The following two blog articles were written for MedExcel in my role as Marketing Assistant.
MARCH 2, 2023
Endometriosis Awareness: Common signs and symptoms
People who menstruate, regardless of gender status, can suffer many reproductive health challenges that can seem scary or unpleasant to see a doctor for. Women’s health and endometriosis awareness is important. Our urgent care sees more and more people come in for tampon removal, UTI’s, yeast infections, and other reproductive health ailments, such as endometriosis. We want you and anyone in your family to know we treat reproductive health ailments without judgement, but with compassion and confidence. You can always request a female provider at our urgent care. We are more than welcome to accommodate if a female provider is available.
People who menstruate, regardless of gender status, can suffer many reproductive health challenges that can seem scary or unpleasant to see a doctor for. Women’s health and endometriosis awareness is important. Our urgent care sees more and more people come in for tampon removal, UTI’s, yeast infections, and other reproductive health ailments, such as endometriosis. We want you and anyone in your family to know we treat reproductive health ailments without judgement, but with compassion and confidence. You can always request a female provider at our urgent care. We are more than welcome to accommodate if a female provider is available.
It can be scary to go to a new medical office for sensitive issues, but it is our first priority to help you feel comfortable and safe at our centers. Many gynecology offices are only open during typical office hours, and it can be hard to schedule an appointment in a timely manner for your health issue. We have evening and weekend hours exactly for this reason – so that you can get the care you need when you need it. It can be from temporary prescription refills on contraception, to menopause relief, STD testing, and much more.
Lack of prenatal care and checkups during pregnancy are leading causes for maternal mortality in the US. Lack of affordable healthcare is often the reason for reduced access to medical services. We offer an affordable self-pay options for those who may not have adequate insurance. Many of our staff at our urgent care center are parents ourselves, so we know the importance of compassion that goes into quality medical care, so our community is as healthy as can be.
Endometriosis is a condition that affects 1 in 6 people who menstruate in the US. Many symptoms of endometriosis are those many associate with premenstrual syndrome (PMS) but it could be a sign of something else going on. Endometriosis, is when soft tissue found in the uterus is also found in other parts of the abdomen. This is just one of many women’s health conditions women face and may feel embarrassed to see a doctor for their condition.
The symptoms associated with this condition can look a lot like symptoms of pelvic inflammatory disease or other reproductive issues.
Endometriosis Awareness: Common signs and symptoms
Painful periods (dysmenorrhea). Pelvic pain and cramping may begin before and extend several days into a menstrual period. You may also have lower back and abdominal pain.
Painful periods (dysmenorrhea). Pelvic pain and cramping may begin before and extend several days into a menstrual period. You may also have lower back and abdominal pain.
Pain with intercourse. Pain during or after sex is common with endometriosis.
Pain with bowel movements or urination. You’re most likely to experience these symptoms during a menstrual period.
Excessive bleeding. You may experience occasional heavy menstrual periods or bleeding between periods (intermenstrual bleeding).
Infertility. Sometimes, endometriosis is first diagnosed in those seeking treatment for infertility.
Other signs and symptoms. You may experience fatigue, diarrhea, constipation, bloating or nausea, especially during menstrual periods.
The severity of your pain may not be a reliable indicator of the extent of your condition. You could have mild endometriosis with severe pain, or you could have advanced endometriosis with little or no pain. For an accurate diagnosis of your current, or possible endometriosis, a visit to a GYN is required.
Please note: Our urgent care does not / cannot diagnose Endometriosis.
If you require prenatal care, please visit your OB/GYN.
Please note: If you are having an issue with a pregnancy, do not wait and visit your local Emergency Room.
FEBRUARY 16, 2023
What's in Your First Aid Kit?
Knowing what to include among your first aid kit items is a must! A first aid kit is essential to a family, a go-bag, a travel duffel, and an adventure backpack. Certainly, the best thing you can do for yourself, and your family is to be prepared. So, we’re sharing our best tips with you on what to carry in a first aid kit so you can be prepared for minor injury and illness on your own. There are two main categories of items you’ll need:
First Aid Kit Items: Bandage Materials
In particular, it’s best to have a variety of bandage options should an injury occur.
In particular, it’s best to have a variety of bandage options should an injury occur.
- Nitrile gloves in order to ensure clean handling
- Anti-septic wipes to disinfect a wound
- Topical anti-biotic such as bacitracin for speedy recovery
- Band-aids
- Large-area bandages
- Roll or sheets of gauze
- 1 inch wide athletic tape
- Small surgical scissors
- Quick-act ice pack
- Ace bandage
- Tweezers
- Tick remover
- First Aid Kit Items: Medications
Without doubt, it’s best to have choice of pain relievers for different purposes. The elements won’t always be in your favor, but you can be prepared for them!
- Ibuprofen in order to reduce inflammation (take with food!)
- Acetaminophen for reducing fever and pain
- Antacid – milk of magnesia is most effective
- Fast-acting anti-allergy/antihistamine
- Bee sting relief
- Anti-itch cream
- Electrolyte tabs
- Sunscreen (yes, even in the winter)
- Saline eye drops
- Hand sanitizer
- Epi-Pen (if needed)
- Asthma inhaler (if needed)
Conclusion
If you’ve made it this far, consider yourself educated on what to include among your first aid kit items, and ready for taking on any sports game, walk in the park, scenic hike along the river, bike ride around town and more.
If you’ve made it this far, consider yourself educated on what to include among your first aid kit items, and ready for taking on any sports game, walk in the park, scenic hike along the river, bike ride around town and more.
Generally, It’s best to keep your first aid kit in a bright and easy-to-identify sack or bag in an easy to reach place in your backpack or purse. In addition, let others in your family or group know where it is, and what is in it. Communicate any severe allergies and how to use an epi-pen in a time of need. As a matter of fact, many parents and healthcare professionals even carry an epi-pen for the sake of others. Most important, be sure to check the medications in your kit every 3 years, as some may expire.
*Please note: This is a simple essentials first aid kit that does not include treatment for serious trauma. Therefore, if there is a medical emergency outside your scope of handling, see our Urgent Care Center for non life-threatening conditions, or go to the emergency room for life-threatening conditions.
The following text is an excerpt from my business plan for a full-service indoor rock climbing gym in New York.
INDUSTRY
Gym growth in the climbing industry remains strong when compared to related industries – Based on Rock Gym Pro (climbing gym membership management software) data, average total revenues per climbing gym were estimated to be 19% higher in 2022 than they were in 2019. In 2022, 36 new gyms opened in the US, and only 7 U.S. climbing gyms closed in 2022, the fewest of the past eight years. As of February 2023, 43 new gyms are planned to open, resulting in more new gyms than the previous year. In the past 10 years, 55% of new gyms have been first-location facilities.
Gym growth in the climbing industry remains strong when compared to related industries – Based on Rock Gym Pro (climbing gym membership management software) data, average total revenues per climbing gym were estimated to be 19% higher in 2022 than they were in 2019. In 2022, 36 new gyms opened in the US, and only 7 U.S. climbing gyms closed in 2022, the fewest of the past eight years. As of February 2023, 43 new gyms are planned to open, resulting in more new gyms than the previous year. In the past 10 years, 55% of new gyms have been first-location facilities.
The estimated number of indoor climbers, for instance, rose to over 5.6 million in 2021―an all-time high and a roughly 7.1% increase from 2019. According to an Outdoor Industry Association 2022 report, the number of indoor climbers grew annually by 3.03% on average over the past four years, which is more than the 2.22% growth in fitness gym members over the same four-year period based on data in an iHRSA 2022 report.
When viewing average net climbing gym growth (annual openings minus permanent closures) over ten-year intervals, the period from 2013-2022 marked the best ten-year period ever, with the U.S. climbing gym industry growing by 32 net gyms on average each year. The climbing gym market is estimated to grow at a CAGR of 12.5% between the years of 2022 and 2027. The size of the market is forecast to increase by USD 4,185.74 million. The growth of the market depends on several factors, including the increased popularity of outdoor sports, growing awareness among people about fitness and healthy lifestyles, and the growth in the construction of climbing walls.
The participation rates in indoor and outdoor climbing have surged over the last few years owing to factors such as the presence of many indoor climbing gyms and outdoor climbing destinations, the emergence of interactive climbing walls, and the rise in the number of tourists. These factors will drive the regional market's growth, with top-rope climbing segment growing at a significant rate during the forecast period, 2023-2027. The growing participation of women in climbing activities is an emerging trend in the market. Nowadays, the most watched and loved games in various parts of the world are the ones that require great strength and contain adventure that excites youngsters. Climbing, both competitively and recreationally, has until now been dominated by men. However, this attitude is now witnessing a dramatic change. The participation of women in climbing activities is increasing worldwide and gaining more attention and audience among people.
NEWBURGH MARKET
According to EASI Demographic Block census reports, the Metropolitan Newburgh area population is 755,000 people and has been steadily increasing by 1-2% in the last 10 years. According to the Albany Times Union, in the past three years, public and private investments in Newburgh exceeded $144.6 million, and $128 million more is expected over the next few years. The city also noted that 1,840 building permits were issued in 2020, and property values increased 16 percent between 2019 and 2020.
According to EASI Demographic Block census reports, the Metropolitan Newburgh area population is 755,000 people and has been steadily increasing by 1-2% in the last 10 years. According to the Albany Times Union, in the past three years, public and private investments in Newburgh exceeded $144.6 million, and $128 million more is expected over the next few years. The city also noted that 1,840 building permits were issued in 2020, and property values increased 16 percent between 2019 and 2020.
The city of Newburgh launched a revitalization effort in 2021, focusing on downtown and the waterfront. Great progress has been made towards transforming Broadway into an ADA compliant avenue. Approximately $3.3mm has been invested in intersection makeovers with another $3.5mm slated to continue the work. Improvements include curb cuts, bump-outs, and new signal devices with call buttons for waiting pedestrians. The next step in transforming Broadway requires a combination of technical assistance, design and engineering, and capital improvements to unlock Broadway’s full economic potential as a major transit-oriented development corridor. A short pedestrian walk up from the Waterfront Gateway crisscrosses the Hillside to the Broadway corridor and encourages visitors and residents alike to stay awhile and explore squares and plazas, shops, restaurants, public art, entertainment and other amenities.
The average annual household income in Newburgh is $87,487, while the median household income is $72,758 per year. Residents aged 25 to 44 earn $84,470, with people younger than 25 earning average incomes of $64,506 per year.
Mount Saint Mary College in Newburgh has 2,700 students male and female, with a shuttle that takes students as far as Beacon for recreational activities.
Most of Newburgh’s jobs are located within the city’s downtown, showing 5,000-8,000 jobs per square mile. Further from the center of the city, there are fewer jobs per square mile.
Mount Saint Mary College in Newburgh has 2,700 students male and female, with a shuttle that takes students as far as Beacon for recreational activities.
Most of Newburgh’s jobs are located within the city’s downtown, showing 5,000-8,000 jobs per square mile. Further from the center of the city, there are fewer jobs per square mile.
The City of Beacon with a population of 14,000 is located approximately 6 miles from the proposed facility and boasts an affluent lifestyle with nearly 50% of the population earning $96,000 annually. Beacon is best known for its variety of hiking options, bustling main street, and close proximity and easy public transport access from NYC.
Resorts Hudson Valley is a new casino occupying the old Newburgh mall space that continues to draw large crowds just months after its opening in December 2022. The casino is happy to raise benefits and tax revenue for the community of Newburgh.
Plans to expand Newburgh’s affordable housing stock are underway in two projects on the city’s densely populated East End, with 67 micro-units planned for housing development.
The Catch intends to capitalize on the development and revitalization as the area’s first climbing gym in Newburgh.
TARGET MARKET
Climbing offers a fun physical and mental challenge for a variety of customers. Overcoming fear, pushing past perceived limits, and realizing personal goals alongside friends are just some of the aspects of climbing that make it so popular today. It provides a unique challenge that is unlike any other sport or physical activity, yet it is an action that is nearly as natural to us as walking - just think of how many parents have stories of their kids climbing all over furniture at a young age.
Climbing offers a fun physical and mental challenge for a variety of customers. Overcoming fear, pushing past perceived limits, and realizing personal goals alongside friends are just some of the aspects of climbing that make it so popular today. It provides a unique challenge that is unlike any other sport or physical activity, yet it is an action that is nearly as natural to us as walking - just think of how many parents have stories of their kids climbing all over furniture at a young age.
The primary target customer will be active individuals, ages 6-40. Our target audience is about 50% new climbers, and 50% individuals with some amount of prior climbing experience. As stated above, the primary directive of The Catch is to provide a state-of-the art training facility for dedicated Gunks climbers. The Shawangunk mountains, or “Gunks” as they are commonly known, are arguably the best climbing destination on the east coast and are considered one of the best climbing destinations in the entire country.
The Gunks are home to over 1,000 climbs of varying difficulty and are visited by over 50,000 climbers each year, with a significant portion of those being local residents. These local climbers will make up a large portion of our target market. They are dedicated climbers, many of whom have moved to the area exclusively for the climbing, and they are in need of a space to train during the off season, during the work week, and a place to go on rainy days. There is currently next to nothing in terms of spaces that meet these needs within 70 miles of the Gunks proper.
The other half of our target market will be individuals with little to no climbing experience and will include:
Active individuals ages 20-40 who seek a fun new hobby and a new community
Households with children who seek a fun recreational outlet for their kids and for the whole family
Organizations seeking recreational activities to boost their sense of community (companies, school groups, college clubs)
Active individuals ages 20-40 who seek a fun new hobby and a new community
Households with children who seek a fun recreational outlet for their kids and for the whole family
Organizations seeking recreational activities to boost their sense of community (companies, school groups, college clubs)
This target audience is very similar to other climbing gyms located in similar urban areas and is heavily supported by Newburgh’s median age. With nearly 1 million people living within 20 miles of Newburgh, reaching our target member base of 1,000 will be achievable with a reasonable market penetration.
PRODUCTS & SERVICES
Our primary product at The Catch is membership to our facility, which will provide unlimited access to all services (climbing, fitness and yoga). Some services, like instruction, may require additional fees, but will be discounted to members. This supports our business model of encouraging long-term customer commitment and recurring revenues. Climbing and fitness instruction will be offered in a variety of formats. Programming will reflect the needs of our customers, beginning with learn to climb and progressing to more advanced skills and techniques for more seasoned climbers. The Catch will also have children-specific courses and youth climbing teams. These activities will support growth of membership and the climbing community.
Membership options will include monthly electronic fund transfer (EFT) memberships, which will be our primary focus and best option for the customer, and day passes. Pre-paid annual memberships will be offered at the best value for customers who wish to pay in full.
The Catch will also cater to the community by offering group events and programs. These include birthday parties, corporate entertainment events, team building and community recreation activities. Summer and holiday camps will also be available for our younger clientele throughout the year. These activities increase awareness of the facility and will be used as a sales tool to encourage membership.
The facility will also offer limited retail gear sales providing added member benefit of having the convenience of purchasing climbing related gear and apparel in-house. Rental gear (shoes, climbing harnesses and other climbing accessories) will also be available to customers. We will not be carrying a wide gamut of options, as profit margins of retail gear is low, requires additional management and employee time. An extensive gear shop exists closer to the Gunks which customers are likely aware of.
The fitness facility at The Catch will offer aerobic machines as well as free weights and related equipment providing customers with a full training regimen to supplement their climbing activities. Training programs as well as private instruction will be offered to customers.
The yoga room will provide a full calendar of classes. The Catch will partner with local yoga instructors to provide regular yoga classes, open to all but at a discounted rate for members. When not in use, the yoga room will be available to customers for individual workouts, stretching and cooling down. The inclusion of fitness and yoga adds significant value to our membership offering.
Our primary product at The Catch is membership to our facility, which will provide unlimited access to all services (climbing, fitness and yoga). Some services, like instruction, may require additional fees, but will be discounted to members. This supports our business model of encouraging long-term customer commitment and recurring revenues. Climbing and fitness instruction will be offered in a variety of formats. Programming will reflect the needs of our customers, beginning with learn to climb and progressing to more advanced skills and techniques for more seasoned climbers. The Catch will also have children-specific courses and youth climbing teams. These activities will support growth of membership and the climbing community.
Membership options will include monthly electronic fund transfer (EFT) memberships, which will be our primary focus and best option for the customer, and day passes. Pre-paid annual memberships will be offered at the best value for customers who wish to pay in full.
The Catch will also cater to the community by offering group events and programs. These include birthday parties, corporate entertainment events, team building and community recreation activities. Summer and holiday camps will also be available for our younger clientele throughout the year. These activities increase awareness of the facility and will be used as a sales tool to encourage membership.
The facility will also offer limited retail gear sales providing added member benefit of having the convenience of purchasing climbing related gear and apparel in-house. Rental gear (shoes, climbing harnesses and other climbing accessories) will also be available to customers. We will not be carrying a wide gamut of options, as profit margins of retail gear is low, requires additional management and employee time. An extensive gear shop exists closer to the Gunks which customers are likely aware of.
The fitness facility at The Catch will offer aerobic machines as well as free weights and related equipment providing customers with a full training regimen to supplement their climbing activities. Training programs as well as private instruction will be offered to customers.
The yoga room will provide a full calendar of classes. The Catch will partner with local yoga instructors to provide regular yoga classes, open to all but at a discounted rate for members. When not in use, the yoga room will be available to customers for individual workouts, stretching and cooling down. The inclusion of fitness and yoga adds significant value to our membership offering.
All types of indoor climbing will be offered to customers:
• Bouldering - powerful, technical climbing at low levels (12 to 15 ft.) without the use of safety ropes. Padded flooring helps protect the climber.
• Top rope climbing - climbing in which climbers belay one another other with ropes anchored at the top of the wall, allowing the climber to ascend to the top of higher walls and be lowered back to the ground by their partner
• Lead climbing - A more advanced form of climbing in which the climber ascends steeper overhanging routes and clips the rope into safety points as they climb
• Bouldering - powerful, technical climbing at low levels (12 to 15 ft.) without the use of safety ropes. Padded flooring helps protect the climber.
• Top rope climbing - climbing in which climbers belay one another other with ropes anchored at the top of the wall, allowing the climber to ascend to the top of higher walls and be lowered back to the ground by their partner
• Lead climbing - A more advanced form of climbing in which the climber ascends steeper overhanging routes and clips the rope into safety points as they climb
Climbing routes, which are patterns of modular holds bolted to the climbing wall creating a color-coded path up the wall, will be regularly changed to provide climbing variety for customers. The route difficulty will be skewed toward beginners in early stages of operation. The distribution of route difficulty will be critical to provide climbers with enough climbs.