Alzheimer's Disease Awareness: My Story

Several years ago, a beloved member of my own family became afflicted with Alzheimer's. I was living with my grandmother and doing things with her every day. Things like, shopping, cooking, laundry, clipping coupons, and weeding the garden. I never noticed anything was wrong until one day when I brought home some charcoal broiled chicken from the poultry market for dinner. I left the chicken on the kitchen table and told my grandmother that I would round up the other family members to eat. When I returned with my aunts, I saw my grandmother standing at the kitchen sink scrubbing something. I went over to see what she was doing and discovered all of the chicken soaking in soapy dish water. She looked at me and said, “Shari doll, this chicken you bought was so dirty. I’ve been scrubbing it to get the black off.” My aunt and I began laughing but also realized that there was something wrong. This was our first outstanding sign of her disease. There were probably other signs, but being with her every single day, I couldn’t see it.  

Alzheimer's is a disease that attacks the brain and is not a part of normal aging. It is a debilitating decomposition of the brain which affects not only those who are diagnosed, but all of the people around them; friends and family alike. It is a painful life experience to witness the loss of memories of loved ones who are in decline. 

For those who are in the early stages of Alzheimer’s or dementia, there are many resources available to increase your comfort and allow you to remain active. Here in Tucson and Marana, AZ, MHC Healthcare has many sources and services that can  help you cope and find inspiration.  If you feel that you need to be examined for signs of the disease, please call MHC Healthcare to see one of our primary care providers at 520.682.4111. 

A Few Facts About Alzheimer’s

What do you mean by “early stage”?

Regardless of age, those who are diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease are usually at the beginning stages of the disease. Persons in the early stages will experience some forgetfulness, mild problems with language, and problems making decisions, but are generally able to function during in their daily activities.

What is not “early stage”?

People beyond early stage Alzheimer’s (middle stage) will not remember having a diagnosis of memory loss and will have problems communicating. At this point, they will need a caregiver for dressing, bathing, meal preparation and transportation. 

Is there a cost?

The Alzheimer’s Association Early Stage Programs and Services are free of charge. Please call 1.800.272.3900 for more information or to register for any of their programs or services. For more information go to http://www.alz.org. 

➢     For local Arizona residents, MHC Healthcare can get you started with one of our primary care providers who can diagnose, refer and provide you with the resources that you will need. 

What happens when I can no longer participate in Early Stage Programs?

When you reach the period of transition, from early stage to middle stage Alzheimer’s, care consulting services are available for future planning, including caregivers, support groups, educational classes and a 24/7 helpline.

Helpful Alzheimer’s Educational Programs

●     Know the 10 Signs: Early Detection Matters

●     Living with Alzheimer’s: For People with Early StageAlzheimer’s and Care Partners

●     Living with Alzheimer’s: For People with Younger OnsetAlzheimer’s

●     Living with Alzheimer’s: For Middle Stage Caregivers

●     Legal and Financial Planning for Alzheimer’s Disease

●     Dementia Conversations

●     Effective Communication Strategies

●     Orientation to Early Memory Loss

These programs will help you understand changes and challenges to be expected with early Understanding and Responding to Dementia-Related Behavior.

Written by Sharon Kether, a valued MHC Healthcare Volunteer

Source: ttp://www.alz.org/co/in_my_community_Early_Stage_Alzheimers.asp

Breast Cancer Awareness

October is National Breast Cancer Awareness month, so it's time to raise awareness about this common form of cancer that affects over 230,000 women in the US every year. Cancer is a broad term for a class of diseases characterized by abnormal cells that grow and invade healthy cells in the body. Breast cancer starts in the cells of the breast as a group of cancer cells that can then invade surrounding tissues or spread (metastasize) to other areas of the body. 

When you’re told that you have breast cancer, it’s natural to wonder what may have caused the disease. But no one knows the exact causes of breast cancer. Doctors seldom know why one woman develops breast cancer and another doesn’t, and most women who have breast cancer will never be able to pinpoint an exact cause. What we do know is that breast cancer is always caused by damage to a cell's DNA. 

Women with certain risk factors are more likely than others to develop breast cancer. A risk factor is something that may increase the chance of getting a disease. Some risk factors (such as drinking alcohol) can be avoided. But most risk factors (such as having a family history of breast cancer) can’t be avoided. Having a risk factor does not mean that a woman will get breast cancer. Many women who have risk factors never develop breast cancer, and many women who have no risk factors do develop breast cancer - that's why early detection and treatment is so important! 

One in eight women will be diagnosed with breast cancer in their lifetime. Although breast cancer in men is rare, an estimated 2,150 men will be diagnosed each year. When breast cancer is detected early, and is in the localized stage, the 5-year relative survival rate is 100%.* Create your early detection plan today: http://www.nationalbreastcancer.org/breast-cancer-awareness-month


Sources:

• http://www.nationalbreastcancer.org/
• * http://www.cancer.org/cancer/breastcancer/detailedguide/breast-cancer-survival-by-stage
• http://ww5.komen.org/

National Health Center Week 2015 - MHC Healthcare Press Release

Contact Info:
Miley Clark
Public Relations Director, MHC Healthcare
Tues-Thurs 8am-5pm
520-682-4111 x 6255

For Immediate Release
August 10, 2015

MHC Healthcare Celebrates National Health Center Week 2015
Part of National Campaign Celebrating 50 Years of Success in Healthcare Delivery

MHC Healthcare, which includes Marana Main Health Center, the oldest community health center in Arizona, and one of the oldest in the United States. For over 50 years, MHC has been providing quality primary and preventive care to those in need. MHC has grown from a single clinic serving migrant farm workers into MHC Healthcare (MHC) serving over 43,000 patients annually at 14 health center sites spread throughout Marana, Pima County, Catalina, Picture Rocks and the Tucson metro area.

Nationally, this week is marking National Health Center Week 2015 (NHCW) as part of a weeklong campaign (August 9-15) to raise awareness about the mission and accomplishments of America’s Health Centers, the country’s largest and most successful system of primary healthcare. This national network of health centers in rural and urban neighborhoods across America, serves over 24 million Americans or 1 in 14 Americans. Health Centers started 50 years ago as a pilot project during President Lyndon Johnson’s War on Poverty. The Marana Health Center is one of the original clinics and has been successfully providing quality primary and preventive care ever since.

Nationally and locally, health centers are one of the bright spots in America’s healthcare system saving $1,200 per patient per year – a total annual savings of $24 billion to the entire health care system. In fact, MHC and other community health centers are the lowest cost primary care providers in Arizona. In addition to reducing costs, MHC and other community health centers provide high-quality primary and preventive health care to the people who need it most. MHC provides primary care, dental, behavioral health, pharmacy, and a variety of support and specialty services. MHC Healthcare continues to break new ground by being the first organization in Arizona to integrate medical and behavioral healthcare into one healthcare setting to better meet the needs of our community.

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MHC Healthcare has 14 locations throughout Marana, Pima County, Catalina, Picture Rocks and the Tucson metro area. MHC Healthcare collectively serves over 43,000 individuals annually who have various forms of medical coverage, including private insurance, AHCCCS, Medicare, sliding fee scale or with no medical coverage. www.mhchealthcare.org

MHC Healthcare/Marana Main Health Center: 13395 N. Marana Main Street, 520-682-4111

National Health Center Week 2015! August 9th - 15th

MHC Healthcare is celebrating 50 years of success in healthcare delivery with the National Association of Community Health Centers. We want to raise awareness about the mission and accomplishments of America's Health Centers, which is the largest and most successful primary healthcare system in the country. 

MHC Healthcare is part of a national network of health centers in rural and urban neighborhoods across America, serving over 24 million Americans. One of the bright spots in America’s healthcare system, health centers started 50 years ago as a pilot project during President Lyndon Johnson’s War on Poverty. Today, they have compiled a significant record of success that includes reducing mortality rates, lowering hospital emergency room visits and admissions, and generating $24 billion a year in annual healthcare savings.

MHC is proud to be a part of America's health centers legacy! We are able to provide care to over 57,000 people in Pima County, Arizona. We offer primary care, dental, behavioral health, and many more services. Visit our website for a full listing: www.mhchealthcare.org. Our mission is to provide excellence in integrated health services to the communities we serve. We offer healthcare to everyone who walks through our doors - regardless of race, ethnicity, citizenship status, or ability to pay. Let MHC Healthcare take care of you and see how community health centers maintain patient satisfaction levels of nearly 100%. Call us! 520-682-4111

About Community Health Centers: To address the widespread lack of access to basic health care, community health centers serve over 24 million people at more than 9,000 sites located throughout all 50 states and U.S. territories. Health centers depend in large part on public financial help and need a unified voice and common source for research, information, training and advocacy. The National Association of Community Health Centers (NACHC) organized in 1971. To learn more please visit www.healthcenterweek.org or www.nachc.org. You can also follow the #NHCW15 hashtag on Twitter.

Juvenile Arthritis Awareness Month

What is Juvenile Arthritis?

That’s right, kids get arthritis. It is a common misconception that only “old” people are afflicted with arthritis. Nearly 300,000 children in America have been diagnosed with juvenile arthritis.

Juvenile arthritis (JA) is not a disease in itself. Also known as pediatric rheumatic disease, JA is an umbrella term used to describe the many autoimmune and inflammatory conditions or pediatric rheumatic diseases that can develop in children under the age of 16. Juvenile arthritis affects nearly 300,000 children in the United States.

Although the various types of juvenile arthritis share many common symptoms, like pain, joint swelling, redness and warmth, each type of JA is distinct and has its own special concerns and symptoms. Some types of juvenile arthritis affect the musculoskeletal system, but joint symptoms may be minor or nonexistent. Juvenile arthritis can also involve the eyes, skin, muscles and gastrointestinal tract.

Talk to your MHC Healthcare primary care provider today if you suspect your child has JA.

520-682-4111

www.mhchealthcare.org

Want to learn more about causes, symptoms and treatment? Visit http://www.arthritis.org/about-arthritis/types/juvenile-arthritis/.

Sources:

http://www.arthritis.org/about-arthritis/types/juvenile-arthritis/

http://www.curearthritis.org/juvenile-arthritis-awareness-month/

4th of July Safety

Independence Day Fire Safety

Americans will spend more than $2 billion on cookouts this July 4th holiday and will eat more than 150 million hot dogs. And they’ll cook those hot dogs on an assortment of gas, propane, and charcoal grills, which means—if they’re not careful—they could be playing with more fire than they mean to. There are nearly 9,000 grill fires every year, according to the National Fire Protection Association, and July is the peak month for them.

Safety rules for all grills:

• Grills should be used only outdoors. Indoors, they pose both a fire and a carbon monoxide hazard. “Indoors” includes garages, sheds, and other partially enclosed spaces. 
• Protect children and pets. Keep them away from the grill area, and don’t let children play with matches and lighters. 
• Never leave a grill unattended while it is in use.
• Don’t spray grease flares with water. Water can cause grease fires to explode.

Independence Day Fireworks Safety

Fireworks injuries are on the rise, according to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC). In 2013, injuries hit a 10-year high, with eight deaths and an estimated 11,400 consumers who sustained injuries related to fireworks. Most of the injuries were caused by device malfunction and improper use.

Before you light fireworks:

• Check the label. Legal fireworks have the name of the manufacturer, the words "Class C Common Fireworks," and a warning on the label. Fireworks without this label should not be used.
• Put pets indoors (they may become frightened by the noise).
• Keep a bucket of water nearby in which to place all used fireworks.
• Have a water hose or fire extinguisher nearby to put out stray sparks.
• Clear a level area away from things that can burn.
• Teach family members to "stop, drop, and roll" if their clothes catch on fire.

When lighting fireworks:

• Have a designated adult light all fireworks. Do not allow children to light fireworks.
• Wear safety goggles.
• Light one at a time, move away quickly, and keep at a safe distance until the display has finished.
• Use fireworks (including sparklers) only outdoors and away from anything that can burn.
• Never throw fireworks, and never hold them in your hand after lighting.

After you finish:

• Clean up all debris.
• Remember, duds can be dangerous, too. If a device doesn't light or fire, an adult should wait at least 5 minutes, approach it carefully, and place it in a bucket of water.

Enjoy a Fun & Safe Holiday!

Spring 2015 Newsletter

Meet Dr. Serrano

When I was a little girl growing up in Puerto Rico, my grandma used to take me to this nurse to get my shots. The nurse would use these rubbing alcohol cotton balls to sterilize my arm, and I really liked the smell. I thought to myself, I want to do this, I want to be a doctor. I admired doctors, they just knew so much. Then that smell disappeared for many years, since people started using other things to disinfect with. One year during my residency I was coming into the ER to see a patient and the smell of rubbing alcohol came back and transported me to that nurse’s office when I was little. I knew then, that I had chosen the right path.

In 2012, I relocated to Arizona with my husband and three kids – that’s when I discovered MHC Healthcare. Compared to the other healthcare companies in the area, MHC spoke more to who I was as a person. I grew up underserved, so it felt like this is where I am meant to be. I can really connect with my patients here. My favorite part about being a doctor is when somebody tells me, “thank you for helping me,” “I’m so glad to see you, ” “you’re the one that listens,” or even “thank you for saving my life.” Just last week I caught someone’s cancer in time. Big or little, I’m helping people, that’s what I love to do, and that’s why I chose to become part of the MHC Healthcare family.

MHC believes that regardless of who you are, your financial status or background, we will take care of your healthcare needs. I love being the Chief Medical Officer and your family practice doctor. This work is critical to my personal mission of giving back to the community. I chose MHC Healthcare because I truly believe it is a strong, solid organization with a very promising future. In my personal life, my family is my highest priority. This is a fervent value of mine that spills into my every-day work life. I want every patient to feel welcome, supported, and well cared for. MHC Healthcare works hard to be the best for our patients and we want you to feel like you are part of our family.

Warmest regards,

Dr. Jenitza Serrano

Chief Medical Officer

Humans of MHC Healthcare

Humans of MHC Healthcare (HOMHCH) is an ongoing collection of pictures and quotes from real MHC employees. It shows MHC’s dedication to providing quality healthcare with a heart to all of our patients. HOMHCH began because we wanted to put a human face to our name. Specifically, the faces of people who work hard every day to ensure that patients who come to us are getting the best care possible. We are not just another healthcare company – we are a non-profit community health center, which means we work for your health, not our profits. HOMHCH is not only a way to show patients that we care, but it also gives our providers, referral specialists, medical assistants, and other staff the recognition they deserve. Whether it’s staying late to finish a patient’s appointment, or spending their lunch break researching cancer treatment grants, the staff at MHC go above and beyond their job description. All HOMHCH postings can be found on our website and we look forward to including patients testimonials in the future. Humans of MHC Healthcare captures our passion for serving our communities.

“What do you think is the biggest obstacle?”                                      

“Teaching patients their rights and responsibilities, teaching them self-care, teaching them their responsibility as a healthy person or how to be on the road to becoming a healthy person. Some patients are not used to self-care, and they don’t have the self-appreciation to know that they’re worth the self-care. I think that’s probably the biggest obstacle is having patients take reign of their own life and realize that they are worth it.”

 — Loretta Workman,

Referral Specialist

MHC Healthcare Ortiz Health Center

Social Media

MHC Healthcare has officially entered the digital realm! We are on Facebook, LinkedIn, YouTube, Blogger, and Pinterest. Our focus is to add value to our community by sharing informative, interesting and inspiring content. We keep our patients and followers in the loop about MHC and community events. We discuss health and public activities, recognize other organizations for their accomplishments, and shine the light on extraordinary MHC employees. Get involved with us today!

Thank You Corner

As a non-profit organization, MHC Healthcare receives grants and donations that allow us to continue providing affordable healthcare to our patients. Thank you to Delta Dental of Arizona Foundation for a grant of $15,000 to support MHC’s dental program. Funds will assist uninsured pregnant mothers with third trimester dental screenings and cleanings.

The 2015 Trico POWER Grants program awarded MHC Healthcare $8,000 to reduce barriers to basic preventative care for children and their families. Thank you, Trico! Special thanks to the Heritage Highlands Women’s Health Luncheon Committee and their recent $4,800 donation! Their contribution will support Behavioral Health Programming. All contributions to MHC Healthcare make a difference in the lives of children, individuals, and families throughout our communities. Thank you for your support!

Innovative MHC Pharmacy Leads with Speed and Accuracy

When it comes to healthcare with a heart, MHC Pharmacies never miss a beat with their customer service and efficiency.

MHC Healthcare pharmacies serve all MHC patients and have three convenient locations: Marana Main Health Center in Marana, Clinica Del Alma Health Center in southern Tucson, and Wilmot Family Health Center on the east side of Tucson.

MHC Healthcare recently purchased an innovative robot, the Parata Max Flex, for the Marana Main Health Center Pharmacy, to help fill prescriptions with speed and accuracy. The Parata fills approximately 45% of our prescriptions on a daily basis. The robot’s innovative design allows it to use space effectively, store up to 232 prescriptions, and ensures 100% accuracy. This automation frees up pharmacists to spend more time with our patients and decreases wait times. When patients get the correct medication, they are safer, healthier and happier!

Fast, warm, and personal service is the goal of MHC Pharmacies. Patients can refill their prescriptions in a variety of ways. Our app, RefillRX Mobil, allows patients to scan the barcode on their prescription bottle, which sends the refill order instantly to an MHC Pharmacy. When the prescription is filled, the pharmacy notifies the patient by their preferred choice of communication. Another refill option is to touch-tone the prescription number using a telephone keypad. Patients can also visit MHC Healthcare’s website, www.mhchealthcare.org, and click on the “Get a Prescription” icon. Most importantly, we always welcome a personal phone call if you want to speak directly with a staff member. We are here to help you and we value our relationship with each and every one of our patients.