An Essex County home inspector has built a free website that lets anyone look up the public records behind a New Jersey property &mdash; building permits, flood zones, fire history, oil tanks and contamination sites, property taxes, and more &mdash; by typing in an address.
The site, <a href="https://oprasearch.app/" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">Permit &amp; Parcel</a>, covers all 564 New Jersey municipalities and brings together records from official sources, including state and county databases, FEMA flood maps, and the towns&rsquo; own municipal codes. No account or email is required, and there&rsquo;s no cost. Since launching this spring it has handled more than 18,000 searches from every county in the state.
&ldquo;I kept watching buyers fall in love with a house before anyone checked the paper trail &mdash; the open permits, the flood zone, what the town actually requires when a home changes hands,&rdquo; said Leo Betancor, a Certified Master Inspector based in Cedar Grove and the founder of the site. &ldquo;All of that is public record. It just wasn&rsquo;t in one place anyone could actually use.&rdquo;
&ldquo;And it isn&rsquo;t only for buyers,&rdquo; Betancor added. &ldquo;With rates where they are, a lot of people are staying put. The house you already own has a paper trail too &mdash; an old oil tank, a flood zone change, a lead service line &mdash; and most owners have never seen it.&rdquo;
Alongside the main lookup, the site includes free single-purpose tools: a <a href="https://oprasearch.app/tools/contamination/" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">contamination and tank lookup</a> showing known spill sites and registered tanks near any address, a <a href="https://oprasearch.app/tools/lead-pipes/" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">lead water pipe check</a>, a <a href="https://oprasearch.app/tools/lead-safe/" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">lead-safe inspection lookup</a> showing which of the two state-required inspection methods each town uses under New Jersey&rsquo;s lead paint law, a searchable <a href="https://oprasearch.app/lead-contractors/" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">directory of DCA-certified lead evaluation and abatement contractors</a> sorted by distance, a <a href="https://oprasearch.app/tools/fire/" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">fire-incident map</a> built from more than 40 years of state fire records, and a <a href="https://oprasearch.app/tools/radon/" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">radon map</a> covering every municipality.
Homeowners can also <a href="https://oprasearch.app/tools/tax/" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">look up property taxes and assessments</a>, <a href="https://oprasearch.app/tools/hvac-age/" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">check the age of a furnace, air conditioner or water heater</a>using its serial number, and <a href="https://oprasearch.app/tools/co/" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">find their town&rsquo;s certificate-of-occupancy requirements</a> before selling or renting a home.
A companion site, <a href="https://njflood.zone/" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">njflood.zone</a>, gives instant FEMA flood-zone answers for any New Jersey address &mdash; built after the federal government shutdown left FEMA&rsquo;s own map site unreliable &mdash; running on the site&rsquo;s own servers with the complete flood map data for the state loaded locally.
Permit &amp; Parcel carries no advertising and is funded entirely by Smart Choice Inspections, Betancor&rsquo;s Cedar Grove home inspection company. Readers who find the site useful and need an inspection can claim <a href="https://callsmartchoice.com/patch" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">$100 off a qualifying home inspection</a>, or learn more on <a href="https://callsmartchoice.com/leobetancor/?gift=credit100&amp;campaign=patch" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">Betancor&rsquo;s page</a>.
The project was recently featured in <a href="https://www.tapinto.net/towns/east-hanover-slash-florham-park/columns/at-home-with-holly/articles/deep-dive-conversations-what-the-house-won-t-tell-you" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">TAPinto</a>. Both sites are free at <a href="https://oprasearch.app/" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">oprasearch.app</a> and <a href="https://njflood.zone/" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">njflood.zone</a>.

Essex County

Eric Kiefer

New York City Metropolitan Area

Montclair

New Jersey

Cedar Grove Home Inspector Builds Free Property...

An Essex County home inspector has built a free website that lets anyone look up the public records behind a New Jersey property — building permits...

Cedar Grove Home Inspector Builds Free Property-Records Lookup for Every NJ Town

The following community events are offered through Hackensack Meridian Southern Ocean Medical Center in November (locations vary):

TUCKERTON - SOUTHERN OCEAN&nbsp; MEDICAL CENTER is hosting FREE Wellness Screenings on Saturday, November 14, 2026, from 10 a.m. - Noon at the Tuckerton Pantry, 148 North Green Street, Tuckerton. Join us on our Your Health on the Move Van as medical staff perform wellness screenings, which include blood pressure, heart rate, cholesterol, and stroke risk assessments. *Fasting is not required. Registration is encouraged but not required. Walk-ins welcome. For more information, visit HackensackMeridianHealth.org/Events or call 1-800-560-9990 for more information.
WARETOWN - SOUTHERN OCEAN MEDICAL CENTER is hosting a FREE lecture on Mental Health Jeopardy on Monday, November 16, 2026, at 10:30 a.m. at the Township of Ocean Recreation Center, 239 11th Street, Barnegat. Join our nurse educator as she discusses methods to reduce stress and anxiety. For more information, visit HackensackMeridianHealth.org/Events or call 1-800-560-9990.

LITTLE EGG HARBOR - SOUTHERN OCEAN MEDICAL CENTER is hosting a FREE lecture on Navigating Diabetes During the Holidays on Tuesday, November 17, 2026, from 11 a.m. - Noon at Ocean County Library - Little Egg Harbor, 290 Mathistown Rd, Little Egg Harbor.&nbsp; Join our health educator for an engaging and practical program designed to help you enjoy the holiday season while maintaining healthy eating habits. Learn simple strategies for making balanced food choices, managing portion sizes, and enjoying festive meals without guilt or deprivation. Visit HackensackMeridianHealth.org/Events or call 1-800-560-9990 for more information.
WEBINARS
HMH Network- is offering a FREE Webinar: Don't Wait to Breathe Easy: Understanding Lung Cancer on Wednesday November 18, 2026 from Noon - 1 p.m. Join Rachel NeMoyer, M.D. to learn what it takes to breathe easier. What you should know about your lungs and lung cancer.&nbsp;&nbsp;
To Register: <a href="http://hackensackmeridianhealth.org/events" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">http://hackensackmeridianhealth.org/events</a> Left hand side, select Event Topic filter for Cancer Care
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(photo by shadowkill at freeimages.com)

Ocean County

Veronica Flesher

Barnegat-Manahawkin

Hackensack Meridian Southern Ocean Medical...

The following community events are offered through Hackensack Meridian Southern Ocean Medical Center in November (locations vary):...

Hackensack Meridian Southern Ocean Medical Center November Events

This property features a new vinyl bulkhead, new roof, siding, gutters, hot water heater, and fresh paint throughout. &nbsp;Huge oversized property (80x148) with a detached garage. &nbsp;This is a rare find!!&nbsp;<a href="https://eugenebator.remaxbb.com/details/?mlsid=22632117&amp;mls=135&amp;ppc=&amp;addht=playbook-promote-listing-195&amp;view_timing=2" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">eugenebator.remaxbb.com/details/?mlsid=22632117&amp;mls=135&amp;ppc=&amp;addht=playbook-promote-listing-195&amp;view_timing=2</a>

11 Sylvia Ln. Beach Haven West - Just 699,000!

This property features a new vinyl bulkhead, new roof, siding, gutters, hot water heater, and fresh paint throughout.  Huge oversized property ...

A Hackensack Meridian Children&rsquo;s Health expert weighs in
Manahawkin, N.J. - October 21, 2026 - As a child psychiatrist and a mother of five who has navigated this firsthand, I know that while most of us think of Halloween as a sugar-fueled night of make-believe, it can actually be a psychological minefield for many children. For kids dealing with anxiety, trauma, grief, or neurodivergence, the spooky season doesn't just cause a few goosebumps &ndash; it can trigger genuine distress and sensory overload.
There is a marked biological difference between a fun fright and real panic. Most kids love a safe scare. They scream, they laugh, and they are fine, because they ultimately feel in control. However, Halloween becomes distressing when a child loses that sense of safety. Jump scares, being chased, or gore they cannot make sense of can easily set off a real fight-or-flight response.
Part of the issue is a developmental disconnect. Preschoolers literally haven't mastered the difference between fantasy and reality yet, so to them, a person in a mask may really have become a monster. While school-age children know Halloween sights and sounds are pretend, those scary images can still stick with them at bedtime. For tweens and teens, the risks shift to horror movies, extreme haunted houses, and peer pressure. Children with anxiety, a history of trauma, or neurodivergence are especially vulnerable at any age.
We also don't often think about unexpected trauma and grief. Tombstone props and skeletons can be incredibly painful for a child mourning a recent loss. Similarly, fake blood, weapons, and even hospital costumes can deeply trigger kids who have survived real-life accidents or scary medical procedures. When you add in the sensory overload of scratchy costumes, loud crowds, and the pressure to perform by talking to strangers in the dark, the environment can quickly overwhelm a child's nervous system.
So, how can we help? My number one mantra is that preparation beats reassurance after the fact. I encourage parents to walk past scary houses in the daylight to demystify the decorations, or show young kids how a mask goes on and off. You can also preview the evening in advance with a simple social story using plain, calm language so they know exactly what to expect.
It is also crucial not to shame your child. Avoid telling your child not to be a baby if they act fearful or are hesitant to participate. Shame doesn't make fear go away; it just teaches kids to stop telling you about it.
Instead, let the child set the pace, and never force a haunted house or a jump scare for fun. I saw this with my own five kids. When they were younger, some didn't like to wear complicated costumes, some got worn out from walking too long, and some didn't like people in scary costumes. It is completely normal for kids in the same family to react very differently. Create a safe opt-out word, allow partial or no costumes, offer sensory supports like noise-canceling headphones, and remember that it&rsquo;s okay to pivot to predictable, autumn-based themes like pumpkins and harvests instead.
Ultimately, the goal of Halloween isn't to force participation in traditions that cause distress, but to create joyful, safe memories for your family. By tuning into your child's unique needs and prioritizing their sense of safety over neighborhood expectations, you can help them navigate the spooky season with confidence &ndash; ensuring the holiday stays a treat, rather than a trick.
<a href="https://www.getcare.hackensackmeridianhealth.org/provider/stacy-james-doumas/1319942" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">Stacy Doumas, M.D., MBA</a>, is chair of Psychiatry for the Southern Region of Hackensack Meridian Health and chair of the Department of Psychiatry at Jersey Shore University Medical Center.

For more resources on supporting your child's mental health and well-being, visit Hackensack Meridian Health Children's Health at <a href="http://hackensackmeridianhealth.org/kids" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">HackensackMeridianHealth.org/kids</a>.&nbsp;
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(photo: vecteezy.com)

Why Halloween Can Be a Psychological Minefield...

A Hackensack Meridian Children’s Health expert weighs in...

Why Halloween Can Be a Psychological Minefield for Kids – and How to Help 

A Hackensack Meridian Health expert provides tips during Menopause Awareness Month
Manahawkin, N.J. - October 20, 2026 - Women often hear a lot about the importance of bone health, but the medical guidance on exactly when and how to take action can often feel conflicting. You might have been told by a doctor that you don't need to worry about getting a bone density scan until you hit age 65. However, <a href="https://www.getcare.hackensackmeridianhealth.org/provider/soma-mandal/5921600" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">Soma Mandal, M.D.</a>, medical director of Women&rsquo;s Health at Hackensack Meridian Jersey Shore University Medical Center, is weighing in to change that narrative.
&ldquo;There is a growing conversation to address bone prevention much earlier than 65,&rdquo; Dr. Mandal shares. She emphasizes that taking proactive steps to protect your bones should be a lifelong journey &ndash; and one that begins well before menopause.
According to recent data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), <a href="https://www.cdc.gov/nchs/products/databriefs/db405.htm" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">nearly 1 in 5 women (18.8%)</a> aged 50 and older have osteoporosis. Furthermore, the National Institutes of Health (NIH) reports that osteoporotic fractures account for <a href="https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9546973/" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">more than 2 million new cases </a>per year.
Here is how you can navigate your bone health journey through the decades, understand the screening discrepancies, and take control of your fracture risk.
Your 40s and 50s: Advocacy and Establishing a BaselineThe current U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) guidelines state that women should get their first DEXA (bone density) scan at age 65 if they have no known risk factors. But here lies a critical discrepancy: 65 is the age when fracture risk begins to steeply climb, but the most significant bone density loss actually happens around age 52, the average age of menopause.

&ldquo;We don&rsquo;t usually associate menopause with changes in our bones,&rdquo; she says. &ldquo;Estrogen helps protect our bones from breakdown, but as we lose estrogen during menopause, we start to lose that protection.&rdquo;

To bridge this gap, Mandal utilizes the FRAX (Fracture Risk Assessment) tool, which estimates a 10-year fracture risk by incorporating factors like BMI, prior fractures, family history, smoking, alcohol consumption and steroid use. This helps determine who needs a DEXA scan before 65. The scan provides a T-score, which compares your current bone density to the peak bone strength of a healthy 30-year-old.
What you can do now:
<ul><li>Advocate for yourself: Ask your doctor if your risk factors warrant an early scan.&nbsp;</li><li>Consider Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT):&nbsp;While previous studies caused a generation of women to fear increased breast cancer risks, Mandal stresses that HRT is highly effective and requires a personalized conversation with your doctor.</li><li>Lifestyle interventions: Engage in weight-bearing and resistance exercises, take Vitamin D supplements, avoid smoking, and limit alcohol intake.</li></ul>
Your 60s: Taking Action and Targeted Treatments
If you reach your 60s and a DEXA scan reveals low bone density, do not panic. "It is never too late," Mandal encourages. "Bone is a living tissue. You still have opportunities to strengthen your bones and reduce your fracture risk." At this stage, your doctor will closely monitor your T-score. If your risk is elevated, they may recommend non-hormone medications designed to build bone or slow its breakdown.

What you can do now:
<ul><li>Explore medication options: First-line treatments often include bisphosphonates, though some women may benefit from SERMs (Selective Estrogen Receptor Modulators) or certain anabolic agents.</li><li>Understand the goal: The objective isn't necessarily to get you back to "normal" bone density. Instead, doctors use these medications for a targeted time frame (usually 5 to 7 years) to significantly reduce your risk of a fracture from happening.</li></ul>
Your 70s and Beyond: Fracture and Fall Prevention
As you enter your 70s and beyond, the primary focus shifts heavily toward preventing falls. According to the CDC, falls are the <a href="https://www.cdc.gov/falls/data-research/facts-stats/?CDC_AAref_Val=https://www.cdc.gov/falls/facts.htm" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">leading cause of fatal and nonfatal injuries</a> among adults aged 65 and older, and they cause over 90% of hip fractures. Treatment at this age is highly individualized based on your FRAX score. 
What you can do now:
<ul><li>Assess home safety: Don't walk in slippery socks on hardwood floors, ensure your rugs are secure, and install grip rails in the shower and on stairs.</li><li>Enhance mobility and vision:&nbsp;Regular eye exams are vital, and do not hesitate to use a walker or cane regularly if you need one.</li></ul>
Osteoporosis and severe bone loss are preventable diseases, and it's time to shift the conversation. Don't wait until you're 65 to think about your bones. Be an advocate for your own health, understand your risk factors, and start building a foundation of strength today.
To learn more about bone health and bone density scanning, visit <a href="https://www.hackensackmeridianhealth.org/en/services/radiology-and-imaging" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.hackensackmeridianhealth.org/en/services/radiology-and-imaging</a>.&nbsp;
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(photo: vecteezy.com)

A Woman’s Journey to Lifelong Bone Health

A Hackensack Meridian Health expert provides tips during Menopause Awareness Month...

Manahawkin, N.J. - On Tuesday, December 15, Hackensack Meridian Southern Ocean Medical Center is sponsoring a blood drive at the hospital in collaboration with Vitalant. The event will take place 10:00 a.m. through 2:00 p.m. in the hospital&rsquo;s Beach Plum Conference Room, 1140 Rt. 72 West, Manahawkin. Donors must be at least 16-years old, weigh at least 110 pounds, and haven&rsquo;t donated whole blood in the eight weeks prior to the appointment. To participate, donors are encouraged to register for an appointment at <a href="https://donors.vitalant.org/dwp/portal/dwp/appointment/guest/phl/timeSlotsExtr?token=ZJvCnKX76F1ZSAijtwvmLHTkQ6Z6dt6cOgZKz8vCLBE%3D" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">donors.vitalant.org</a> (use code: XSOMC) or by calling 877-258-4825 and must present identification upon arrival.&nbsp;

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(photo: <a href="http://vecteezy.com" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">vecteezy.com</a>)

Blood Drive at Hackensack Meridian Southern...

Manahawkin, N.J. - On Tuesday, December 15, Hackensack Meridian Southern Ocean Medical Center is sponsoring a blood drive at the hospital in...

Blood Drive at Hackensack Meridian Southern Ocean Medical Center 

A Hackensack Meridian Southern Ocean Medical Center expert weighs in
Manahawkin, N.J. - October 16, 2026 - Shorter daylight hours and wet, slippery leaves serve as a timely reminder for older adults: it is time to safeguard against seasonal hazards. Falls are the leading cause of injury for people over 65, with one in four older Americans falling each year, according to the <a href="https://www.cdc.gov/falls/about/index.html" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.&nbsp;</a>
When these seasonal falls lead to a hospital visit, specialized care makes all the difference. Hackensack Meridian Southern Ocean Medical Center (SOMC) recently achieved Geriatric Emergency Department (ED) accreditation from the American College of Emergency Physicians, recognizing its dedication to providing specialized, high-quality care for the region's aging population.
&ldquo;With about one-third of Ocean County residents aged 60 and older, protecting this population from seasonal hazards is a top priority,&rdquo; says <a href="https://www.getcare.hackensackmeridianhealth.org/provider/paul-mastrokyriakos/1316284" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">Paul Mastrokyriakos, DO</a>, medical director of the Emergency Department at SOMC. &ldquo;As an accredited Geriatric ED, our team is uniquely equipped to care for seniors when emergencies happen; however, our ultimate goal is to keep you safely at home. Simple, proactive home modifications are the most effective way to prevent severe injuries.&rdquo;
To keep your home safe this season, consider these simple, proactive steps:
<ul><li>Light the Way and Clear Floors: Less daylight means indoor lighting is crucial. Add lamps to your living spaces, utilize voice-controlled smart devices, or install touch-activated bedside lights so you never navigate in the dark. Clear your floors of throw rugs, electrical cords, and shoes.</li><li>Safeguard Your Steps: Autumn leaves can make outdoor steps treacherous. Ensure all indoor and outdoor staircases feature sturdy handrails on both sides and use motion-sensor lights to keep landings brightly lit.</li><li>Optimize Kitchens and Bathrooms: Move frequently used kitchen items to lower shelves and use a step stool with a railing or a reacher-grabber tool to avoid overextending. In the bathroom, prevent falls by installing a comfort-height toilet, screw-mounted grab bars, and a slip-resistant shower chair.</li><li>Adjust Bedrooms and Outdoor Chores: Keep a bench in your bedroom to sit on while dressing. When tackling seasonal outdoor chores, ensure your garage has a wide, clear path, and swap out heavy lifting for wheeled garbage and recycling bins.</li></ul>
Take action now so you can confidently avoid falls and enjoy many more autumn seasons to come.
For information about Hackensack Meridian Southern Ocean Medical Center, visit<a href="http://www.hackensackmeridianhealth.org/en/locations/southern-ocean-medical-center" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank"> www.hackensackmeridianhealth.org/en/locations/southern-ocean-medical-center</a> or call 844-HMH-WELL.
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(photo: vecteezy.com)

Stop the Slip: Seasonal Home Safety Tips to...

A Hackensack Meridian Southern Ocean Medical Center expert weighs in...

Stop the Slip: Seasonal Home Safety Tips to Prevent Autumn Falls 

Manahawkin, NJ &ndash; October 16, 2026 &mdash; Hackensack Meridian Southern Ocean Medical Center is among 12 Hackensack Meridian Health facilities to have received <a href="https://www.heart.org/en/professional/quality-improvement/get-with-the-guidelines/get-with-the-guidelines-stroke/get-with-the-guidelines-stroke-recognition-criteria" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">American Heart Association Get With The Guidelines&reg;&ndash;Stroke</a> achievement awards for their proven commitment to following up-to-date, research-based stroke care guidelines that help improve patient outcomes, reduce hospital readmissions, and shorten recovery times.
Heart disease and stroke are the No. 1 and No. 4 causes of death in the United States, respectively, according to the American Heart&#8239;Association&rsquo;s&#8239;<a href="https://www.ahajournals.org/doi/10.1161/CIR.0000000000001412" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">2026 Heart Disease and Stroke Statistics Report</a>. Studies show patients can experience better outcomes when care teams consistently follow evidence-based treatment guidelines.
&ldquo;We are incredibly proud to see so many of our hospitals recognized for excellence in stroke care,&rdquo; said Robert C. Garrett, FACHE, CEO of Hackensack Meridian Health. &ldquo;These honors reflect the skill, teamwork and dedication of our physicians, nurses and team members who act quickly and decisively when every second matters. Across our network, we are committed to providing patients with seamless access to the full continuum of stroke care, from rapid diagnosis and emergency treatment to advanced interventions, recovery and rehabilitation. Most importantly, these recognitions demonstrate the impact of that commitment on the patients and communities we are privileged to serve.&rdquo;
Get With The Guidelines puts the expertise of the American Heart Association and American Stroke Association to work for hospitals nationwide, helping ensure patient care is aligned with the latest science-backed guidelines. As a participant in the Get With The Guidelines programs, Hackensack Meridian Health qualified for the awards by demonstrating a sustained commitment to improving the quality of cardiovascular care.
The following Hackensack Meridian Health medical centers received 2026 American Heart Association/American Stroke Association Get With The Guidelines&reg;&ndash;Stroke awards:
<ul><li>Bayshore Medical Center &ndash; Stroke Gold Plus with Target: Stroke Honor Roll Elite and Target: Type 2 Diabetes Honor Roll</li><li>Hackensack University Medical Center &ndash; Stroke Gold Plus with Target: Stroke Honor Roll Elite Plus, Advanced Therapy and Target: Type 2 Diabetes Honor Roll</li><li>Jersey Shore University Medical Center &ndash; Stroke Gold Plus with Target: Stroke Honor Roll Elite Plus, Advanced Therapy and Target: Type 2 Diabetes Honor Roll</li><li>JFK University Medical Center &ndash; Stroke Gold Plus with Target: Stroke Honor Roll Elite Plus, Advanced Therapy, and Target: Type 2 Diabetes Honor Roll</li><li>Ocean University Medical Center &ndash; Stroke Gold Plus with Target: Stroke Honor Roll Elite with Target: Type 2 Diabetes Honor Roll</li><li>Palisades Medical Center &ndash; Stroke Gold Plus with Target: Stroke Honor Roll Elite Plus and Target: Type 2 Diabetes Honor Roll</li><li>Raritan Bay Medical Center &ndash; Old Bridge &ndash; Stroke Silver Plus with Target: Stroke Honor Roll and Target: Type 2 Diabetes Honor Roll</li><li>Raritan Bay Medical Center &ndash; Perth Amboy &ndash; Stroke Gold Plus with Target: Type 2 Diabetes Honor Roll</li><li>Riverview Medical Center &ndash; Stroke Gold Plus with Target: Stroke Honor Roll Elite and Target: Type 2 Diabetes Honor Roll</li><li>Southern Ocean Medical Center &ndash; Stroke Gold Plus with Target: Stroke Honor Roll Elite and Target: Type 2 Diabetes Honor Roll</li><li>Mountainside Medical Center: Stroke Gold Plus with Target: Type 2 Diabetes Honor Roll</li><li>Pascack Valley Medical Center: Stroke Silver Plus with Target: Type 2 Diabetes Honor Roll</li></ul>
To receive the Gold Plus designation, hospitals must achieve at least 85% adherence to key stroke performance indicators for two consecutive years and demonstrate 75% or higher compliance with additional quality measures. Honor Roll Elite status is awarded to hospitals that meet time-to-treatment goals, including rapid administration of clot-busting medications.&nbsp;
American Heart Association&rsquo;s Target: Type 2 Diabetes&trade; Honor Roll award. Target: Type 2 Diabetes aims to ensure patients with Type 2 diabetes, who might be at higher risk for complications, receive the most up-to-date, evidence-based care when hospitalized due to stroke.
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(photo: vecteezy.com)

Manahawkin, NJ – October 16, 2026 — Hackensack Meridian Southern Ocean Medical Center is among 12 Hackensack Meridian Health facilities to have...

Hackensack Meridian Southern Ocean Medical Center Receives Stroke Care Nod

Hackensack Meridian Health experts weigh in during this Breast Cancer Awareness Month
Manahawkin, N.J. - October 9, 2026 - When actress Olivia Munn revealed her breast cancer diagnosis in 2024, it sparked a massive, much-needed public conversation about early detection. Munn was just 43, had a clear routine mammogram, and tested negative for the well-known BRCA genetic mutations. Her aggressive cancer was only caught because her doctor calculated her Breast Cancer Risk Assessment Score, which flagged her for a life-saving MRI.
Hackensack Meridian Health experts say Munn&rsquo;s story highlights growing confusion surrounding breast cancer screening guidelines. With various health organizations shifting their recommendations recently, many women are left completely unsure about when to start screening, how often they need to go, and whether a standard mammogram alone is actually enough to protect them. The urgency to clear up this confusion and establish personalized risk has never been greater. According to the <a href="https://www.cancer.org/research/cancer-facts-statistics/breast-cancer-facts-figures.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener nofollow">American Cancer Society</a>, breast cancer incidence rates have steadily risen over the past decade, with a steeper increase of 1.4% per year among women under 50.
The Root of the Confusion: Competing Guidelines
Different health organizations offer slightly different guidance on mammograms. Here is the current breakdown for average-risk women, simplified:
<ul><li>U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF): In April 2024, the USPSTF updated their guidelines, lowering the recommended age to start mammograms from 50 to 40. However, they recommend screening biennially (every other year) through age 74. (Source: <a href="https://www.uspreventiveservicestaskforce.org/uspstf/recommendation/breast-cancer-screening" target="_blank" rel="noopener nofollow">USPSTF</a>)</li><li>American Cancer Society (ACS): Recommends women have the choice to start annual screening at 40, but strongly recommends starting annual mammograms at age 45. At age 55, women can transition to every other year or continue annually. (Source: <a href="https://www.cancer.org/cancer/types/breast-cancer/screening-tests-and-early-detection/american-cancer-society-recommendations-for-the-early-detection-of-breast-cancer.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener nofollow">American Cancer Society</a>)</li><li>American College of Radiology (ACR): Recommends annual screening starting at age 40. Additionally, the ACR urges all women to have a formal breast cancer risk assessment by age 25 to determine if they need to start screening even earlier. (Source: <a href="https://www.jacr.org/article/S1546-1440(21)00383-5/fulltext?_gl=1*1so45xq*_gcl_au*ODgzMDAwNTYwLjE3ODc2ODg3MDc.*_ga*NjIwMjg0NzU5LjE3ODc2ODg3MDg.*_ga_K9XZBF7MXP*czE3ODc2ODg3MDckbzEkZzEkdDE3ODc2ODg4NTIkajU1JGwwJGgw" target="_blank" rel="noopener nofollow">American College of Radiology</a>)</li></ul>
The National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN), American Society of Breast Surgeons (ASBrS) and American College of Gynecologists (ACOG) also recommend that women at average risk start annual mammograms at age 40. For women at elevated risk, screening may begin earlier and include MRI.
"The varying screening guidelines often focus on 'average-risk' women, which unfortunately causes many to overlook their own hidden risks, like genetic mutations. While BRCA 1 and 2 are the most well-known, mutations like CHEK2 are also very common and drastically increase breast cancer risk. As a breast surgeon, I urge women to establish their baseline risk early. Catching cancer early through appropriate, individualized screening doesn't just save lives &ndash; it gives patients far more options for less invasive surgeries and treatments," notes <a href="https://doctors.hackensackmeridianhealth.org/provider/roshani-raman-patel/2121022" target="_blank" rel="noopener nofollow">Roshani Patel, M.D., FACS,</a> medical director, Breast Surgical Oncology, Hackensack Meridian Jersey Shore University Medical Center.
Common Questions Women Have (And How to Approach Them)
<ul><li>When should I actually start? While guidelines vary slightly on frequency, medical consensus now agrees that age 40 is the baseline to begin mammograms. However, women should talk to their doctors by age 25 to establish their personal risk.</li><li>What if I have "dense breasts"? Dense breast tissue is common but makes it harder for radiologists to spot tumors on standard mammograms. Thanks to a recent FDA update that took effect in late 2024, all mammogram facilities are now required to inform patients if they have dense breasts so they can seek supplemental screening like an ultrasound or MRI.</li><li>Are mammograms covered by insurance? Yes. Under the Affordable Care Act, screening mammograms are covered without copays starting at age 40.</li><li>I have no family history. Do I still need to worry? Yes. In fact, most women diagnosed with breast cancer have no known family history.</li></ul>


Additional information on breast cancer screening, risk factors, and treatment options is available at: <a href="https://www.hackensackmeridianhealth.org/en/services/cancer-care/breast-cancer" target="_blank" rel="noopener nofollow">https://www.hackensackmeridianhealth.org/en/services/cancer-care/breast-cancer</a>.&nbsp;
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Manahawkin, N.J. - October 9, 2026 - A disturbing social media challenge known as "Benny Tripping" is gaining alarming traction, encouraging teenagers to consume toxic doses of Benadryl (diphenhydramine) to induce hallucinations. As recently reported in the <a href="https://patch.com/new-jersey/barnegat-manahawkin/s/kttax/nj-teen-hospitalized-in-benny-tripping-trend-officials-warn?utm_source=local-update&amp;utm_medium=email&amp;utm_campaign=alert&amp;user_email=d51ff29c9f0e89e88ddae8b535ba1205e502d54c79a7523caba9bbbe1bc7c375&amp;user_email_md5=ec5c745fd3489e46622810e3a201ec1f&amp;lctg=665f4d5a457c373103076e04" rel="noopener" target="_blank">news</a>, this dangerous misuse of common over-the-counter (OTC) medication has already hospitalized at least one New Jersey teenager with confusion, disorientation, and slurred speech.
The statistics surrounding pediatric and teen OTC poisoning over the past three years paint a worrying picture:
<ul><li dir="ltr" aria-level="1">Nationally: According to the National Poison Data System via <a href="https://poisoncenters.org/news-alerts/13642335" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">America's Poison Centers</a>, diphenhydramine exposure cases among teens ages 13&ndash;19 surged 31.9% from 10,068 cases in 2024 to 13,284 cases in 2025. The trend has only accelerated into 2026, with 7,292 teen diphenhydramine-only cases recorded in just the first half of the year&mdash;nearly double the rate from the same period last year.</li><li dir="ltr" aria-level="1">In New Jersey: The<a href="https://www.njpies.org/" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank"> New Jersey Poison Control Center</a> reports managing <a href="https://rutgershealth.org/news/new-jersey-poison-center-data-shows-suicide-attempts-among-teenagers-are-high" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">some 1,500</a> intentional self-poisoning attempts among preteens and teens annually, repeatedly citing OTC medications like Benadryl, acetaminophen, and ibuprofen as the most common culprits.</li></ul>
Hackensack Meridian Children&rsquo;s Health experts weigh in on the medical risks associated with this trend:
"From a pediatric standpoint, prevention and open communication are our best tools against these trends. Parents should lock up all medications, including common allergy pills, and have honest, direct conversations with their teenagers &ndash; and even pre-teens &ndash; about the severe risks hidden in social media challenges before they ever reach the hospital doors." &mdash; Moses Olorunnisola, MD, pediatrician, Hackensack Meridian Southern Ocean Medical Center and K. Hovnanian Children's Hospital at Hackensack Meridian Jersey Shore University Medical Center
"When teens attempt the 'Benny Tripping' challenge, they aren't just risking a bad high. They are risking their lives. In the emergency department, we see the severe consequences of diphenhydramine poisoning, which can rapidly escalate from flushing and confusion to dangerous heart arrhythmias, seizures, and even fatal cardiac arrest. An over-the-counter label does not mean the drug is safe at any dose." &mdash; David Bergamo, MD, Associate Director, Pediatric Emergency Medicine, K. Hovnanian Children's Hospital at Hackensack Meridian Jersey Shore University Medical Center

"We are seeing an alarming normalization of medication misuse fueled by online challenges. As pediatricians, we urge families to regularly audit their medicine cabinets, safely dispose of expired or unused OTC drugs, and actively monitor what their children are exposed to online to stop these poisoning events before they start." &mdash; Katharine Clouser, MD, pediatric hospitalist at Joseph M. Sanzari Children&rsquo;s Hospital at Hackensack Meridian University Medical Center and former president of the NJ Chapter of the American Academy of Pediatrics.
Essential practices to stop the misuse of household medications:
<ul><li dir="ltr" aria-level="1">Keep drugs under lock and key: Store all medications in a secure, locked location so that children, curious teens and young adults cannot get to them.</li><li dir="ltr" aria-level="1">Supervise all doses: An adult should always be the one in charge of dispensing medication. Minors should never be allowed to take medicine on their own.</li><li dir="ltr" aria-level="1">Clean out your medicine cabinet: Routinely clear your home of any leftover or out-of-date drugs, including both over-the-counter and prescription products.</li><li dir="ltr" aria-level="1">Dispose of drugs responsibly: Bring your unwanted pills to a community medication disposal kiosk, or safely hand them over during National Prescription Drug Take Back events, which happen twice a year in April and October.</li></ul>
If you suspect your child has ingested a toxic amount of medication, immediately contact the Poison Control Center at 1-800-222-1222 or call 911. For more resources visit <a href="https://www.hackensackmeridianhealth.org/en/services/childrens-health" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">Hackensack Meridian Children&rsquo;s Health</a>.
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(photo: vecteezy.com)

Hackensack Meridian Children's Health Experts...

Manahawkin, N.J. - October 9, 2026 - A disturbing social media challenge known as "Benny Tripping" is gaining alarming traction, encouraging...

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