2020 Medical Guide

2020

MEDICAL GUIDE

A comprehensive guide to medical services available to our community A special supplement to the Montgomery Herald Medical Guide 2020

FREE

2 | 2020 Medical Guide

Improving the health, safety and

Improving the health,productivity safety and of your workforce! productivity of your workforce!

Our services:

Our services: mproving the health, safety and • Workers’ compensation treatment roductivity of your• workforce! and management Workers’ compensation treatment

ur services:

and management

• Workers’ compensation treatment • Physical exams and management

• Physical exams

• Physical exams • Substance abuse testing

• Substance abuse testing • Surveillance testing • Surveillance testing

• Substance abuse testing

• On-site biometric screenings and flu vaccinations

• Surveillance testing • On-site biometric screenings • Mobile and on-site clinics and flu vaccinations • On-site biometric screenings • DOT exams and flu vaccinations• Mobile and on-site clinics

• DOT exams • Mobile and on-site clinics

• DOT exams

(910) 571-5170 | www.firsthealth.org/occheal

(910) 571-5170 | www.firsthealth.org/occhealth 910) 571-5170 | www.firsthealth.org/occhealth 50-107-19

50-107-19

2020 Medical Guide | 3

Montgomery County Medical Services Directory Assisted Living

Autumn Care of Biscoe 401 Lamber Road, Biscoe 910-428-2117 Sandy Ridge Memory Care 326 Bowman Road, Candor 910-974-4162 Montgomery Village 327 Freeman Street, Star 910-428-2101

Troy Medical Services Thomas M. Bailey, MD – Pediatrics Karen A. Jaramillo, NP – Family Medicine Michael McLeod, MD – Family Medicine Krystal R. Wright, PA – Family Medicine 835 Albemarle Road, Troy 910-572-2309 Mt. Gilead Medical Services Crystal Fischer, PA-C 202 N. Main Street, Mt. Gilead 910-439-1573

Hospitals

FirstHealth Montgomery Memorial Hospital 520 Allen Street, Troy 910-571-5000 FirstHealth Moore Regional Hospital 155 Memorial Drive, Pinehurst 910-715-1000 Atrium Health – Stanly 301 Yadkin Street, Albemarle 980-323-4000

Family Care Associates John M. Woodyear Jr., MD 507 N. Main Street, Troy 910-576-0042

Mental Health Care

Donald L. Davis, DDS 473 Wood Street, Troy 910-572-2811

Montgomery County Community Health Center - RHCC 103 Cotton Creek Road, Star 910-428-9020

Journey Counseling 617 N. Main Street, Troy 910-572-2225

Lane & Associates Family Dentistry 131 Montgomery Crossing, Biscoe 910-428-2048

Foot Care

Poplar Springs Rest Home 601 Dover Road, Star 910-428-2981

Dentists

Johnny L. McKinnon Jr., DDS 407 N. Main Street, Mt. Gilead 910-429-9744 Terry Wood PA 201 N. Main Street, Troy 910-576-3971

Family Medicine

FirstHealth Family Care Crystal Eller, MD Taressa Bryan, FNP 522 Allen Street, #101, Troy 910-571-5510 Mid Carolina Family Medicine Touber Vang MD Janet Leone Britt, PA-C 1038 Albemarle Road, Troy 910-572-1785

Uwharrie Podiatry Colin L. Mofett, DPM 143 N. 3rd Street, Albemarle 704-983-5763 Ankle & Foot Surgical Podiatry 522 Allen Street, Suite 201-B, Troy 910-571-5710 Health Department Montgomery County Department of Health 217 S. Main Street, Troy 910-572-1393

Hospice Care

Community Home Care & Hospice 1024 Albemarle Road, #904, Troy 910-576-0023 FirstHealth Hospice & Palliative Care 251 Campground Road, West End 910-715-6000 Hospice of Stanly & the Uwharrie 960 N. 1st Street, Albemarle 704-983-4216

Daymark Recovery Services 227 N. Main Street, Suite A, Troy 910-572-3681

Optometrists

Carlyle D. Haywood Jr., OD 326 Albemarle Road, Troy 910-576-7371

Pharmacies

Standard Drug 522 Allen Street, #102, Troy 910-572-2070 CVS Pharmacy 902 Albemarle Road, Troy 910-572-1396 Walmart Pharmacy 201 Montgomery Crossing, Biscoe 910-428-3313 Biscoe Pharmacy 2295 NC-24, Biscoe 910-428-1149 C & R Pharmacy 116 S. Main Street, Mt. Gilead 910-439-6541

4 | 2020 Medical Guide

Personal Attention. Proven Results.®

4-out-of-5-star rating 4-out-of-5-star rating

4-out-of-5-star rating In partnership with NRC Health, the industry’s authority on health transparency, Care of performanceand families and will We arecare honored

by Autumn the trust ofBiscoe’ our spatients earned a 4-out-of-5-star rating based on reviews by patients, residents and family members.

continue to deliver the highest quality of care. If you’d like more information or have questions, please call (910) We are honored by the trust of our patients and428-2117. families and will continue to deliver the highest quality of care. If you’d like more information or have questions, please call (910) 428-2117.

Do you value comfort and compassion much as excellent care?

Doas you value comfort and compassion Do you value comfort and compassion as much as excellent care? as much as excellent care?

We too.

Wedo do too.

We know that when it comes to your healthcare or the healthcare of someone you love, the quality of that care, focused therapies and a personalized plan of care that accomplish your goals is what’s most important. That’s why everything we do at Saber is designed to give you peace of mind and confidence.

Our trained and compassionate staff strives to ensure each patient gets personalized care in a positive, healing environment.

Autumn Care of Biscoe

We do too.

Call today to schedule a personalized tour!

(910) 428-2117

saberhealth.com

401 Lambert Rd. • Biscoe, NC 27209

(910) 428-2117

Autumn Care of Biscoe Autumn Care of 401 Lambert Rd. • Biscoe, NCBiscoe 27209

401 Lambert Rd. • Biscoe, NC 27209

(910) 428-2117 (910) 428-2117

2020 Medical Guide | 5

How to give back to seniors in your community Volunteering to help the aging members of one’s community is a great way to give back.

The strongest communities tend to be those in which members make a concerted effort to give as much as they get.

Giving back to one’s community can foster strong relationships with fellow residents and ensure that everyone, including the less fortunate, is in position to live happy, healthy lives.

Certain people in a community may be more vulnerable to issues that can adversely affect quality of life than others. For example, the National Institute on Aging notes that, as men and women age, many are alone more often than when they were younger, leaving them vulnerable to social isolation and loneliness. Such feelings can prove very harmful to their health, potentially contributing to problems such as depression, cognitive decline and heart disease.

Volunteering to help the aging members of one’s community is a great way to give back, and such efforts can prove rewarding for both seniors and the volunteers who lend them a hand.

• Pull an extra chair up to the dinner table. Many a meaningful connection has been made and maintained over the dinner table.

Breaking bread with a senior from your community is a great way to foster such connections and provide an avenue for social interaction for seniors. Seniors who live alone might not enjoy cooking for one each night, but they might jump at the chance to eat dinner with a neighbor and even help prepare the meal. Invite a senior over once per week, encouraging

them to share stories about their lives as well as how the community has developed over the years.

• Help seniors manage their finances. Many seniors struggle to manage their finances, as laws regarding taxes and investing are subject to routine changes. A little help in this area can go a long way for seniors. Adults who want to help but don’t know where to begin can do the legwork for their aging neighbors. Contact agencies such as AARP to determine if there are any financial assistance programs that can help seniors effectively manage their money and take advantage of age-specific perks, such as programs that may help seniors lower their energy costs.

• Offer to help around the house.

Seniors who reside in singlefamily homes may not be able to keep up with routine home main-

tenance. Neighbors who want to help can offer to mow the lawn, tend to the landscaping and tidy up inside. Keep an eye open for other issues, such as clogged gutters, that can be fixed easily but prove costly if they go ignored.

Helping aging neighbors is a great way to give back and build strong communities.

6 | 2020 Medical Guide

Taylor House Who we are:

Assisted Living Facility

Proudly Serving Older Adults in Proudly Stanly County For Over 60 Years Taylor House is an assisted living residence Serving Older owned and operated by Baptist Retirement Adults in Homes of North Carolina, Incorporated, a Stanly County not-for-profit organization committed to For Over providing quality care and a meaningful 60 Years way of life for residents and staff‌ a place where residents and staff become an extension of family that recognizes the dignity and worth of each individual.

Serving and Providing Care to Older Adults for 60 Years

For more information, visit

For more information, visit www.brh.org/community/taylor-house www.brh.org/community/taylor-house

319 Palmer Street, Albemarle, NC 319 Palmer Street, Albemarle, NC 704-982-4217 704-982-4217

SPEC

The Taylor House is located in the quaint North Carolina piedmont town of Albemarle. Since 1954, our assisted living community has combined compassionate care, family style living and a wealth of activities to provide the best quality of life for our residents.

We welcome a chance to meet you and give you a tour of the Taylor House.

2020 Medical Guide | 7

Preventive care involves safeguarding MENTAL HEALTH as well Preventive care is often looked at through the needs people need to do to protect their physical well-being. For example, a healthy diet and routine exercise, while beneficial to mental health, are often viewed as lifestyle choices that can make people feel better physically. But taking steps to protect one’s mental health also is vital to a long, productive life.

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services notes that positive mental health and mental wellness can have a profoundly positive impact on a person’s life. Positive mental health can help people realize their full potential, cope with the stresses of life and make meaningful contributions to their communities.

Taking steps to protect one’s mental health also is vital to a long, productive life.

What can I do to protect my mental health?

Learning to recognize the early warning signs of mental health problems can help prevent such problems from escalating and compel people to seek help. The DHHS advises anyone feeling these signs or recognizing these signs in others to seek help for themselves or their loved ones: • Eating or sleeping too much or too little • Pulling away from people and usual activities • Having low or no energy • Feeling numb or as if nothing matters • Unexplained aches and pains • Feeling helpless or hopeless • Smoking, drinking, or using drugs more than usual • Feeling unusually confused, forgetful, on edge, angry,

upset, worried, or scared • Yelling or fighting with family and friends • Severe mood swings that cause problems in relationships • Persistent thoughts and memories you can’t get out of your head • Hearing voices or believing things that are not true • Thinking of harming yourself or others • An inability to perform daily tasks, such as taking care of your children or getting to work or school Taking steps to protect one’s mental wellness is a vital component of preventive care. More information about mental health is available at www.mentalhealth.gov.

8 | 2020 Medical Guide

Why

immunizations are important

It’s important to note some of the reasons why health organizations like the CDC and the World Health Organization urge all children and adults to be immunized.

Measles is not something that garnered much attention outside the medical community in recent decades. However, in 2019 a series of measles outbreaks put the spotlight back on this highly contagious infectious disease.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, between January 1, 2019, and May 31, 2019, 981 individual cases of measles had been confirmed in 26 states in the United States. That marked the greatest numbers of measles cases reported in the U.S. since 1992. And the U.S. is not the only country in North America facing a measles problem, as the Public Health Agency of Canada reported that, as of mid-May, 54 cases of measles had been reported in the country in 2019. Perhaps most surprising, measles was declared eliminated in 2001, leading many to wonder what’s behind the sudden outbreaks so long after the disease had seemingly vanished.

The CDC reports that the majority of people who got measles in 2019

were unvaccinated. While measles was declared eliminated nearly 20 years ago in the United States, the CDC notes it’s still common in many parts of the world. When unvaccinated travelers visit countries where measles is still common, they can bring the disease with them, ultimately allowing it to spread in communities where large groups of people are unvaccinated.

Regardless of why people choose to avoid vaccinations, it’s important to note some of the reasons why health organizations like the CDC and the World Health Organization urge all children and adults to be immunized.

• Immunizations save lives. The CDC notes that advancements in medical science have made it possible for humans to protect themselves against more diseases than ever before. Once-fatal diseases have now been eliminated thanks to safe and effective vaccines.

• Immunizations protect loved ones. Some people cannot receive certain immunizations due to al-

lergies, illness, weakened immune systems, or other factors. Such individuals are vulnerable to disease, and especially vulnerable if their loved ones who can be vaccinated do not receive their recommended immunizations.

• Immunizations save money. The human toll of failing to be immunized can be fatal, and the financial toll can be heavy, too. Children with vaccine-preventable diseases may not be allowed to enroll in certain schools or daycare facilities, forcing parents to make decisions that can affect their ability to earn a living.

In addition, medical bills that result from long-term illnesses can be substantial. The majority of health insurance plans cover vaccines for adults and children at little or no cost, and even uninsured families can receive free or inexpensive vaccines through certain government programs.

Immunizations take only a few seconds to receive but can have a positive effect that lasts a lifetime.

y,

2020 Medical Guide | 9

Public Health

What is Public Health?

Stay healthy this Public health is something you may not hear about every day, but it is in your everyday lives. Public health is having clean water to shower and brush your teeth. Public health is preventing diseases and injuries. Public health is having a law requiring you to wear a seat belt. As you can see, public health can take on many forms. At the Montgomery County Department of Health, we work to provide high quality public health services to individuals and families in Montgomery County. When most people think of the health department, they think of the clinical services we provide such as maternity care, family planning, child health exams, and vaccinations. However, the health department also does a lot of other work in the community to make it a healthier place. We are working to reduce infant deaths by offering classes to educate new and expecting mothers about keeping their babies safe while sleeping. We promote teen pregnancy prevention in schools, educate young children about handwashing and dental care, investigate disease outbreaks, and provide nutritional services among many other areas. If you want to learn more about how we are providing public health services or to make an appointment, give us a call at 910-572-1393.

Visit us at the County Health Stay healthy this year!

Services w physicals child health care NC Make your appointment27371 today! prenatal 217 S Main St., Troy, NC 27371

Visitusus at at the Montgomery Visit Montgomery County of Health CountyDepartment Health Department!

Services we offer: physicals sick visits child health immunizations prenatal care family planning wic services health education communicable disease environmental health

(910) 572-1393

10 | 2020 Medical Guide

How to incorporate more

heart-healthy foods into your diet

Diet and heart health go hand in hand. The American Heart Association notes that a healthy diet and lifestyle are the best weapons to fight cardiovascular diseases, which the World Health Organization says kill more people across the globe each year than any other disease.

Men and women do not need degrees in nutrition science to create hearthealthy diets for themselves and their families. In fact, the familiar calls to “eat your fruits and vegetables” many adults recall from childhood lessons or nights around the family dinner table still bear weight today. A diet that is rich in fruits and vegetables is a hallmark of a healthy lifestyle.

And supplementing such a diet with other heart-healthy foods is a great way to reduce one’s risk for cardiovascular disease.

Fruits and vegetables

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services notes that fruits and vegetables are healthy whether they’re fresh, frozen, canned, and/or dried. The AHA advises eating fruits and vegetables with every meal and snack, and that may require a little creativity as you sneak them into favorite dishes. For example, the AHA suggests replacing half the ground meat in recipes for burgers, meatloaf or meatballs with cooked chopped mushrooms. The mushrooms can be finely chopped with a knife or food processor, and then sautéed in some olive oil until

they’re soft. They can then be mixed in with the lean meat, and the meal can be cooked as it normally would. At the breakfast table, add fruit to a bowl of cereal to make for a more flavorful morning meal.

snacking, reach for fat-free or low-fat plain yogurt or cottage cheese. You can even add fruit or vegetables to such snacks to make snack time even more heart-healthy.

Dairy products

Healthy proteins are another way people can promote heart health with their daily diets. When choosing proteins at the grocery store, the AHA recommends choosing chicken and fish over red meats. That’s because red meats, which include beef and lamb, have more saturated fat than chicken and fish. Saturated fats increase blood cholesterol levels and can worsen heart disease, while the unsaturated fats in fish like salmon can actually reduce the risk for cardiovascular issues like heart failure and ischemic stroke. When preparing poultry, remove the skin, as most of the saturated fat in poultry is found just beneath the skin.

When purchasing dairy products, the DHHS recommends sticking to fat-free or low-fat options. Replace whole milk with fat-free or 1 percent milk and buy only fat-free or low-fat cheese. When

Proteins

Grains

When buying grains, the DHHS recommends reading the ingredients list on the package before purchasing. Make sure whole wheat or another whole grain is the first item listed in the ingredients list, and choose only those products that say 100 percent whole grain. Instead of preparing white rice as a side dish, serve brown or wild rice, quinoa or oats.

A heart-healthy diet is easy to design and just as flavorful as less healthy alternatives.

5

2020 Medical Guide | 11

low calorie

snacks

that stray from the norm

Snacking may not seem like part of a healthy diet, but the right snacks can help men and women fight midday hunger without contributing to unwanted weight gain. The following low-calorie snacks won’t compromise adults’ efforts to maintain healthy weights, and they might prove useful as men and women look for that extra boost during the day.

1. Popcorn: Popcorn is low in calories and a good source of dietary fiber. Popcorn also is high in polyphenols, which are antioxidants that have been linked to reductions in heart disease and certain cancers. Air-popped popcorn that is prepared without any oil is your best option, as a cup of such popcorn may only add up to about 30 calories.

Avoid adding salt or butter or purchasing premade popcorn that is heavy on both, as both ingredients can compromise the health benefits of popcorn.

2. Nonfat Greek yogurt: Though it’s not as low in calories as popcorn, nonfat Greek yogurt is still a low-calorie snack that’s high in protein.

Nonfat Greek yogurt may have as much as two times the amount of protein as traditional yogurts, and that’s beneficial because protein helps you feel full longer, which should help you maintain a healthy weight and avoid overeating.

Nonfat Greek yogurt also tends to have less sugar than traditional yogurts, and its creamy texture gives many people the impression that they are eating something decadent.

3. Hummus: Made primarily from ground chickpeas, hummus is a protein- and fiberrich snack that has been linked to a host of health benefits, including a reduced risk for heart disease and certain types of cancers. Dip vegetables such as baby carrots into hummus, and you’ll have a low-calorie snack that’s also high in vitamin A and beta carotene.

4. Pistachios: Many people might read the labels of pistachios and be turned off by the fat content. But pistachios are low in saturated fat and high in protein, and a couple dozen pistachios may only amount to about 95 calories. Eat pistachios raw and do not add salt, which can negate their health benefits.

5. Grapes: Grapes might not be as popular as potato chips or other widely available snacks, but they are great sources of vitamin K and are loaded with antioxidants.

Grapes are loaded with water, making them a filling snack that can help men and women avoid dehydration. According to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, one cup of grapes can provide as much as 5 percent of the recommended daily value of dietary fiber despite containing just over 100 calories.

12 | 2020 Medical Guide

SANDY RIDGE a safe place for loved ones

We are available for those who need the extra care.

By Jon Galloway Sandy Ridge Memory Care facility has been open for almost 20 years. According to owner, Harold Van Derveer, it opened in June 2000 with one patient. “We’re the second largest memory care unit in North Carolina,” stated Van Derveer. “Memory care is special care for those with dementia and Alzheimer’s. We have 104 memory care beds and 16 assisted living beds.”

Van Derveer explained the difference in assisted living and those who need greater care. “Some of our residents are very active, very capable and need little assistance. Others have reached the stage of their lives that they need more care.”

Van Derveer continued, “With memory care, a lot of it is wandering. They might be up 24 hours a day or they might be up all night. That is what they do. They do what they do. If they want to go to bed at 1 o’clock in the morning, that’s perfectly fine with us. It’s who they are, it’s where they are in their stage of life. We allow anything within reason that is safe. When you get Alzheimer’s or dementia, you regress back to the point of being a 6-month old, a oneyear old. That’s the way they do things.

You can’t tell a 6-month-old what to do nor can you tell a person with one of these diseases what to do. We keep them safe and provide a quality service – whether it’s food, cleanliness or medical – our job is to provide that service and provide it with quality for patients in mind.”

Van Derveer and his staff go well above the typical standards when it comes to cleanliness. They have grades of 100 from the appropriate agencies for cleanliness in both the kitchen and housekeeping. “You don’t see that often,” Van Derveer noted. “The quality is there, but it also has to be every day.

We are only as good as we are today.

Yesterday is irrelevant. We are only as good as we are today and where we will be tomorrow.”

The facility provides most everything a person would need. “We clean for them, we cook for them, we have all the nursing care, we have a doctor who comes in, dietitians who come in, we have an in-house laundry, we have an in-house beauty shop, pretty much every service they would need is in the building.” They also serve three homecooked meals daily. According to Van Derveer, it is good food. “I’m typically here at 6:30 a.m. and often do not leave until after supper time. I eat three meals a day here sometimes and the food is delicious.”

Van Derveer stated, “These diseases can happen at any time in a person’s life. You never want to see a loved one suffer. We are available for those who need the extra care and want their loved ones to be in a safe, loving, friendly environment.”

Galloway is the sports editor for Montgomery Herald. Contact him by e-mail, jgalloway@montgomeryherald.com.

2020 Medical Guide | 13

Care, Compassion & Commitment

The right place... at the right time.

Please contact Donna Hearne to schedule a visit, and experience the care that Sandy Ridge provides.

326 Bowman Road Candor, NC 910-974-4162 www.SandyRidgeLiving.com

“We invite you to come take a tour of our facility, talk with our staff, and discover for yourself the care that sets us apart.”

Specializing in Alzheimer’s and all types of dementia.

14 | 2020 Medical Guide

The importance of annual health exams Annual health exams are a key component of maintaining a healthy lifestyle. A person may not see the need to visit the doctor if he or she is feeling well, but not every disease or condition manifests itself in a way that men and women can detect. According the Unity Point Clinic, nearly one-third of the 133 million Americans living with a chronic disease are unaware of the presence of their conditions. Routine physical exams can detect serious illnesses before they do much damage.

No two physical exams will be exactly alike, but many will share some general features.

Health history

A crucial element of a physical exam will include a thorough health history if the physician doesn’t already have one on file. The doctor will take time to ask questions about family history of illness, health habits, any vices (smoking, drinking alcohol, etc.), exercise sched-

ule, and diet. If there is a possible hereditary health condition running through your family, the doctor may suggest certain testing and make note of potential signs to look for in the future.

Current ailments

After discussing a patient’s history, the doctor may ask if they are having any problems they cannot explain.

These can include changes in eating or sleeping patterns; aches and pains; lumps or bumps and other abnormalities. Again, the presence of symptoms may be indicative of illness or physical changes, but not all diseases produce obvious symptoms.

Vital signs

A doctor will check a patient’s vital signs during the physical. Areas the doctor will look at include but are not limited to:

2020 Medical Guide | 15

• Heart rate: This measures the speed at which the heart is pumping. Normal resting heart rate values range from 60 to 100 beats per minute.

• Blood pressure: A blood pressure cuff (sphygmomanometer) will measure systolic and diastolic pressure. Systolic pressure measures the force with which the blood is pushing through the arteries.

The diastolic blood pressure is the pressure in the arteries between beats, when the heart rests. The systolic (top number) should be below 120, while the bottom should be less than 80, according to the Mayo Clinic.

• Respiration rate: The doctor will measure the number of breaths taken in a minute. WebMD says between 12 and 16 breaths per minute is normal for a healthy adult. Breathing more than 20 times per minute can suggest heart or lung problems.

• Pulse oximetry: Johns Hopkins School of Medicine says pulse oximetry is a test used to measure the oxygen level (oxygen saturation) of the blood. It is a measure of how well oxygen is being sent to the parts of your body furthest from your heart. Nor-

mal pulse oximeter readings usually range from 95 to 100 percent. Values under 90 percent are considered low.

Physical exam

The examination will also include physical components. The doctor will perform a visual inspection of the skin and body for any abnormalities, such as the presence of skin cancer. The physician may feel the abdomen to check that internal organs are not distended.

Females’ physical examinations may include breast and pelvic exams.

Comprehensive testing

In addition to the exam at the office, the physical may include an electrocardiogram, or EKG, to check electrical activity of the heart; blood count and cholesterol checks through bloodwork; body mass index testing; X-rays or MRIs and bone-density tests.

Physical exams remain an important part of staying healthy. Consult with a doctor for more preventative maintenance tips.

Specializing in you D.o.T. pHySicalS, WeigHT loSS pRogRaM, TRiggeR poinT inJecTionS, poin MinoR SuRgeRy, SpoRTS inJuRy, WoRKeR’S coMp, coMpleTe pHySicalS, alleRgy TeSTing, Bone DenSiTy TeSTing, aDDicTion TReaTMenT & MucH MoRe.

ToTal FFa aMily ca caR Re FFo oR all age ageS S 507 north Main Street, Troy, nc 27371

910-576-0042

John M. Woodyear, Jr. M.D. • Carolyn Green, P.A-C Cassie McGee, P.A-C • Alexis Benjamin, P.A. Accepting new pAtients • Se habla espanol

16 | 2020 Medical Guide

How to prevent sports injuries in young athletes Sports are a great tool to teach young people various lessons. Sports can instill a sense of teamwork and responsibility in youngsters while promoting a physically active lifestyle that can benefit kids into adulthood.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates that roughly 30 million children participate in youth sports in the United States each year.

Unfortunately, many of those young

athletes suffer injuries while participating in sports. Injuries might be seen as an almost inevitable byproduct of participating in sports, but the CDC notes that more than half of all sports injuries in children are preventable. Parents and children can work together to prevent injuries.

• Speak with your young athlete about pain. Johns Hopkins Medicine recommends parents discuss

pain with their young athletes, encouraging them to speak up and seek help if they feel pain or if any part of their bodies does not feel right after playing sports.

• Emphasize safety during practice.

It’s easy to overlook sports practices when considering sports-related injuries, but Safe Kids USA notes that 62 percent of organized sports-related injuries occur dur-

We K e e p t h e S a n d h i l l s o n I t s F e e t !

Dr. A. Anthony Haro, III

Diplomate American Board of Foot & Ankle Surgery Board Certified in Reconstructive Rearfoot / Ankle Surgery & Board Certified in Foot Surgery Fellow American College of Foot & Ankle Surgery Fellowship in Reconstructive Foot & Ankle Surgery

Dr. Amie L. Haracz

Diplomate American Board of Foot & Ankle Surgery Board Qualified in Reconstructive Rearfoot / Ankle Surgery & Board Certified in Foot Surgery Fellow American College of Foot & Ankle Surgery

Dr. Kevin W. Schmidtke

Diplomate American Board of Podiatric Medicine Board Qualified in Foot Surgery Associate American College of Foot & Ankle Surgery

Specializing in Ankle/Foot Care & Surgery: Ankle and foot disorders • Diabetic foot care • Arthritis Joint replacement • Achilles & tendon injuries • Nerve pain Ingrown nails & nail problems • Ankle arthroscopy Sports injuries / fractures • Heel pain • Flat feet Corns & Calluses • Warts and wound care

Pinehurst Clinic

200 Westgate Drive, Suite A 910.295.7400

Raeford Clinic 313 Teal Drive 910.904.7430

Troy Clinic

522 Allen Street 910.571.5710

Sanford Clinic

1139 Carthage Street 910.295.7400

2020 Medical Guide | 17

ing practice. In spite of that, Safe Kids reports that one-third of parents do not have their children take the same safety precautions during practice that they would during a game. Parents and coaches can emphasize to children that sports safety should be a priority during both practice and games.

• Get a sports physical. Preseason physicals are typically required for scholastic athletes, but that might not be so for recreational athletes.

Even if leagues don’t require sports physicals, Johns Hopkins advises parents to schedule such exams anyway. Such examinations can determine if kids are fit to play and may uncover injuries or conditions that may make kids vulnerable to injury.

• Encourage adequate rest. Johns Hopkins notes that the most common injuries among young athletes are overuse injuries that involve soft tissue. These injuries affect bone, muscle, ligaments, and/or tendons. Overuse injuries can lead

Young athletes’ injuries are often preventable, especially when parents and children work together and communicate about any aches or pains kids might be feeling.

to stress fractures characterized by a lack of swelling and feelings of pain and tenderness during movement. Encourage rest between practices, games and events, and make sure to schedule an offseason for young athletes so their bod-

ies have time to recuperate before the next season.

Young athletes’ injuries are often preventable, especially when parents and children work together and communicate about any aches or pains kids might be feeling.

18 | 2020 Medical Guide

The benefits of including yoga in your exercise routine Yoga continues to grow in popularity. In a questionnaire administered every five years as part of the National Health Interview Survey, the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health and the National Center of Health Statistics found that the number of people practicing yoga increased dramatically between 2002 and 2012, when approximately 21 million adults acknowledged practicing yoga. That figure equated to nearly double the number of people who practiced yoga just 10 years earlier.

The almost meteoric rise in popularity of yoga can likely be traced to many factors, including a growing awareness among the general public regarding the impact a healthy lifestyle can have on both short- and long-term health. An essential component of a healthy lifestyle involves taking steps to protect

our bodies, and that can include making an effort to reduce the aches and pains that are often associated with aging. “The relaxation techniques incorporated in yoga can lessen chronic pain, such as lower back pain, arthritis, headaches and carpal tunnel syndrome,� explained Natalie Nevins, DO, a boardcertified osteopathic family physician and certified Kundalini Yoga instructor.

The American Osteopathic Association notes the benefits of yoga extend even further than relieving chronic pain. According to the AOA, yoga can help men, women and even children increase their flexibility as well as help them build stronger, more toned muscles. Additional benefits of yoga include weight reduction, improved cardiovascular and circulatory health and improved energy and vitality.

But the benefits of yoga extend beyond the physical to the mental. The American Psychological Association notes that several studies have shown that yoga can help strengthen social attachments, reduce stress and relieve anxiety, depression and insomnia. For example, a 2012 study from researchers at the University of California, Los Angeles, found that a particular type of yoga that included brief, daily meditation reduced the stress levels of caregivers tasked with caring for people suffering from Alzheimer’s disease and dementia.

One of the more attractive aspects of yoga is that it requires little or no financial commitment on the part of the people who practice it. Unlike fitness centers that typically require members to commit to yearly contracts or even potentially costly month-to-month mem-

2020 Medical Guide | 19

berships, many yoga studies do not require long-term commitments, instead asking that customers pay a small amount each time they visit if they are hesitant to commit to memberships. In addition, yoga requires just a mat and some appropriate clothing, ideally clothing that’s conducive to flexibility but not so loose that it will prevent you from performing certain poses.

Before including yoga in your exercise regimen, speak with your physician. Once you get the green light, look for a beginner’s course, explaining to your instructor that you are just starting out. Many yoga studios offer introductory classes that help men and women acclimate their bodies to yoga and the various poses it entails before moving on to more challenging poses.

20 | 2020 Medical Guide

Montgomery Community College offers an array of higher education options to train individuals in highdemand allied health careers. Our programs include: • Associate Degree Nursing (RN) • Associate in Science • Associate in Applied Science in Medical Assisting • Associate in Applied Science in Medical Office Administration • Diploma in Practical Nursing (LPN) • Diploma in Dental Assisting (DA II) • Nurse Aide Certificate • Phlebotomy Certificate All MCC’s allied health programs are accredited. This means they are approved to offer the curriculum required for a graduate to work in their field once they have successfully passed all requirements.

According to the North Carolina Department of Commerce Bureau of Labor Statics (BLS), careers in health

care have some of the best prospects based on wages, projected number of job openings, and projected growth rate of the occupation. The BLS has developed a star rating system to rate careers based on these criteria.

Any occupation with a star rating is a good option. Five stars is the highest rating.

Registered nurse is a five-star-rated occupation, followed by dental assistant, medical assistant, phlebotomist, and licensed practical nurse, which are four-star-rated. Nurse aide has a one-star rating.

Montgomery Community College provides training in nurse aide and phlebotomy to high school students through the Career and College Promise program. High school students can earn a credential that will allow them to get a job while in high school or upon graduation from high school. They will earn college credit for taking these courses as well. Students may take these programs as

part of a prerequisite for either the Practical Nursing or Associate Degree in Nursing programs, which are offered at the college level only.

Most allied health programs at MCC have a multi-step application process because of the many admissions requirements. For information about any of these programs visit www.montgomery.edu and select Academic Programs from the Future Students menu, then select the allied health program you’re interested in.

Montgomery Community College Foundation provides a large number of scholarships for students in allied health programs in addition to federal financial aid. To apply for financial aid, go to www.fafsa.gov to complete a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). You can also get help completing a FAFSA by making an appointment with our financial aid department. To make an appointment online go to www.montgomery.edu/financial-aid.

2020 Medical Guide | 21

There are many good reasons to consider a job in healthcare Check out the allied health programs offered at Montgomery Community College to see if a career in healthcare is for you.

Medical Assisting • Medical Office Administration Nurse Aide • Practical Nursing • Associate Degree Nursing Associate in Science • Dental Assisting

WWW.MONTGOMERY.EDU 1011 PAGE STREET | TROY, NC 27371 910-898-9600 | FAX: 910-576-2176 | TOLL FREE: 877-572-6222

22 | 2020 Medical Guide

Notes

2020 Medical Guide | 23

How to bake

healthier treats

Baking can be a relaxing and rewarding pastime that parents can share with their children. Baking promotes a variety of skills, including the ability to follow instructions and make measurements. Baking also employs mathematics, making baking a rather delicious science experiment. Perhaps one of the few pitfalls of baking is indulging in too many sweet treats when taste testing and then enjoying the fruits of your labors.

But bakers concerned about their health can substitute healthy ingredients when recipes call for foods bakers would prefer to avoid. The following ingredients can make healthy additions to baked-good recipes without sacrificing flavor.

• Whole wheat flour: Flour is at the heart of many baking recipes, including those for cakes, cookies and pies. Refined white flour may not be the healthiest ingredient, so try whole wheat flour, which is full of nutrients and an extra dose of fiber. Fiber can help lower the risk for heart disease and diabetes. Try slightly less than one cup of whole wheat flour for regular flour as a swap if a recipe calls for one cup of flour.

• Fruit puree: When a recipe calls for oil, margarine, butter or shortening, consider replacing such ingredients with fruit purees, which often add moisture and texture just as well but without the same amount of calories.

Applesauce and prunes can be helpful in chocolate dishes. Pumpkin or sweet potato are other purees that can add a nutritional boost as well.

• Greek yogurt: Greek yogurt is a powerhouse of protein and flavor with relatively few calories per serving. It can make a super substitution in recipes for things like sour cream, buttermilk or even cream cheese.

• Applesauce: Believe it or not, unsweetened applesauce also can replace some or all of the sugar in a recipe.

When doing a 1:1 ratio swap, reduce the amount of liquid in the recipe by 1⁄4 cup.

• Marshmallow or meringue: Ever check the nutritional information for many store-bought cake frostings? They pack a considerable amount of calories, sugar and fat. Some also are made with hydrogenated oils. Consider using a marshmallow fluff or homemade meringue to top cupcakes or decorate cookies.

• Stevia: Stevia is an herbal plant that grows primarily in South America.

Stevia has a long history as a sweetener in that area, and now has become a popular sugar substitute elsewhere.

Stevia is an all-natural, no-calorie, nocarbohydrate sweetener. The FDA approved only the purified form of stevia, called stevioside. Remember to check each brand’s sugar-to-stevia ratio to make sure you get the right measurements for your recipe.

Cut calories, fat and sugar from baked goods with some simple and healthy substitutions.

• Egg whites: Replace a whole egg in a recipe with two egg whites or 1⁄4 cup of egg substitute.

• Chocolate nibs: Nibs are processed morsels that do not have the same amount of added sugar as many chocolate chips. Dark chocolate nibs can provide a healthy dose of antioxidants as well.

• Evaporated skim milk: Try evaporated skim milk in place of heavy cream to make whipped cream for a low-fat option.

Baking brings family together, and the treats prepare can make an enjoyable finale to a great meal. With healthy substitutions, any recipe can be altered for the better.

24 | 2020 Medical Guide

Dr. Colin L. Moffett NEW PATIENTS WELCOME

Chronic Heel Pain Treatment Corns • Calluses • Ingrown Nails Painful Feet & Arches • Ambulatory Surgery Pediatric Foot Care • Diabetic & Geriatric Foot Care Bunions & Hammertoes

Serving Stanly County and Montgomery County for over 35 years NOW ACCEPTING MEDICAID

704-983-5763

143 N. 3rd St. • Albemarle

2020 Medical Guide | 25

Family Foot Doctor for 30 Years Uwharrie Podiatry cares about your convenience, which is why our familyfriendly practice treats patients of all ages. When you choose our podiatry practice, enjoy the ease of taking your loved ones to the same foot doctor without having to visit different offices or mess with a mountain of insurance forms. We’ll take care of that for you, so you can focus on your health and recovery. If you think Dr. Moffett’s podiatry skills are impressive, wait until your child sees his awesome balloon animals.

Dr. Moffett was born in Lima, Ohio.

He attended Ohio State University graduating in 1976 with a B.S. in Zoology. He then attended the Pennsylvania

College of Podiatric Medicine graduating in 1980. His postgraduate work included working in Winston-Salem with Dr. E. Joseph Daniels and then in Greensboro with Dr. A.W. Oldham. Dr. Moffett moved to Albemarle in April of 1983 where he opened his practice.

Dr. Moffett and his wife April are getting ready to celebrate their 35th wedding anniversary. They have two children, Stephanie who works in child development in Raleigh and Pastor John David Moffett of Polkton. Dr. Moffett is a member of Main Street United Methodist Church in Albemarle where he is active in Methodist men and church choir.

He has two employees who are na-

tive to the area. Jerri-Anne Jenkins has been with him for 10 years and Angela Moore who had been with him for seven years.

Bring your loved ones to Dr. Moffett for the most advanced foot and ankle care in Stanly County. Our familyfriendly practice welcomes patients of all ages and can treat a wide variety of foot conditions or injuries with skill and kindness. We care about making our treatment affordable, which is why we work with most insurance plans and will do our best to accommodate your needs. Call us today to schedule an appointment or to speak with a team member.

26 | 2020 Medical Guide

Providing High-Quality Care Providing High-Quality Care AVAILABLE SERVICES

• • •• •• •• ••

Well-child ChecksAVAILABLE Sports and School Physicals Sick Visits Checks Well-child ADHD Sports and School Physicals Pediatric Sick VisitsPsychiatry Immunizations ADHD

• Pediatric Psychiatry • Immunizations

• Nutrition Counseling SERVICES • Children with Special Healthcare Needs • Nutrition Counseling Care of the Premature •• Children with Special Infant • Asthma Healthcare Needs •• Diabetes Care of the Premature Infant • Asthma • Diabetes

Our Four Guiding Principles Sandhills Pediatrics is here to support healthy, happy families in a healthy, happy community. Here are the four principles that guide us:

We turn medical care into medical caring.

910.692.2444 195 West Illinois Avenue Southern Pines, NC, 28387 Hours 910.692.2444 M-F 7:45am - 5pm

910.673.1600 155 Grant Street Seven Lakes, NC, 27376 Hours 910.673.1600 M-F 7:45am - 5pm

Medical caring means always trying to do more than expected to show that the health and happiness of our patients and their Raeford families really matters. We aspire to have our patients and their 116-A Campus Avenue Raeford, RaefordNC, 28376 families see medical caring come to life through our actions— 910.565.1578 116-A Campus Avenue Raeford, NC, 28376 it’s more than just words to us, it’s embedded in the soul of our Hours 910.565.1578 practice.

M-F 8am - 5pm

Early HoursBird Walk-in Clinic M-F 7:45am - 8:15am 5pm

Early HoursBird Walk-in Clinic M-F 7:45am - 8:15am 5pm

Early HoursBird Walk-in Clinic M-F 8am - 8:30am 5pm

Evening Clinic for Sick Visits Early Bird Walk-in Clinic M-F 5pm - 7pm 7:45am - 8:15am

Early Bird Walk-in Clinic M-F 7:45am - 8:15am

Early Bird Walk-in Clinic M-F 8am - 8:30am

Southern Pines 195 West Illinois Avenue Southern Pines, NC, 28387 Southern Pines

OUR LOCATIONS

Seven / West End OURLakes LOCATIONS 155 Grant Street Seven Lakes, NC,/27376 Seven Lakes West

End

Saturdays Evening Clinic Sundays for Sick Visits 8am-12pm 1:30pm - 3pm M-F 5pm - 7pm Saturdays 8am-12pm

Sundays 1:30pm - 3pm www.sandhillspeds.com

www.sandhillspeds.com

We are a supportive hand to hold.

We are an extension of the family, providing reliable, compassionate, and expert guidance for parents, patients, and families.

For families facing unknown, unfamiliar, and even scary situations, we seek to provide a confident hand that leads them to a better place.

We find harmony between quality care and convenience.

One of the most difficult challenges for any medical practice is balancing great, high quality care with speed and convenience. At Sandhills Pediatrics, we continue to seek new ways to achieve the ideal balance between quality care and convenience.

By offering extended and weekend hours, last-minute appointment availability, multiple office locations, and by making significant efforts to reduce wait time and increase efficiency, we’re getting closer to achieving that balance every day.

We serve the whole community as an extension of our family.

We understand that the road to creating happy, healthy families begins with a happy, healthy community. So Sandhills Pediatrics takes an active leadership role in shaping an inclusive future for the community in which we live and work.

We serve the whole community, regardless of race, class, or means. We create a safe, supportive medical home. And we extend our efforts beyond our own walls to improve our community through service, education, and outreach.

2020 Medical Guide | 27

Providing High-Quality Care AVAILABLE SERVICES • • • • • •

Well-child Checks Sports and School Physicals Sick Visits ADHD Pediatric Psychiatry Immunizations

• Nutrition Counseling • Children with Special Healthcare Needs • Care of the Premature Infant • Asthma • Diabetes

Providing High-Quality Care OUR LOCATIONS OUR LOCATIONS

SERVICES

AVAILABLE SERVICES

• Well-Child Checks Southern SevenSeven LakesLakes / Southern Pines /Raeford West End Raeford • Well-child Checks • Nutrition Counseling • Sports and School Physicals Pines 195 West Illinois AvenueWest End 155 Grant Street 116-A Campus Avenue • Sick Visits •Avenue Sports and155 School Physicals • Campus Children with Special Avenue 195 West Illinois Southern Pines, NC, 28387 Grant Street Seven Lakes, NC,116-A 27376 Raeford, NC, 28376 Needs • ADHD Raeford,Healthcare NC 28376 Southern Pines, •NCSick 28387Visits Seven Lakes, NC 27376 910.692.2444 910.673.1600 • Pediatric Psychiatry • ADHD • Care of the 910.565.1578 Premature Infant 910.565.1578 910.692.2444 910.673.1600 • Immunizations • Pediatric Psychiatry • Asthma Hours Hours Hours • Children with Special • Immunizations • Diabetes Hours Hours Hours M-F 7:45am - 5pm M-F 7:45am - 5pm M-F 8am - 5pm Needs Healthcare M-F 8am-5pm M-F 7:45am-5pm M-F 7:45am-5pm • CareWalk-in of the Clinic Early Bird Walk-in Clinic Early Bird Walk-in Clinic Early Bird Early Bird Early Bird Early Bird Premature Infant M-F 7:45am - 8:15am M-F 7:45am - 8:15am M-F 8am - 8:30am OUR LOCATIONS Walk-In Clinic Walk-In Clinic Walk-In Clinic • Asthma M-F 8am-8:30am M-F 7:45am-8:15am M-F 7:45am-8:15am Evening Clinic for Sick Visits Southern Pines Seven Lakes / West End Saturdays M-F 5pm - 7pm 8am-12pm 195 West Illinois Avenue 155 Grant Street Saturdays Sundays Sundays Southern Pines, NC, 28387 Seven Lakes, NC, 27376 8am-12pm 1:30pm - 3pm 1:30pm-3pm 910.692.2444

Hours M-F 7:45am - 5pm Early Bird Walk-in Clinic M-F 7:45am - 8:15am

Raeford

WE ARE A SUPPORTIVE116-A Campus Avenue HAND TO HOLD Raeford, NC, 28376 910.673.1600

910.565.1578

Hours M-F 7:45am - 5pm

Hours M-F 8am - 5pm

Early Bird Walk-in Clinic M-F 7:45am - 8:15am

Early Bird Walk-in Clinic M-F 8am - 8:30am

www.sandhillspeds.com

this world, we’re surrounded by When we enter this world, love, comfort When we enter we’re surrounded by love, this world, comfort and care. care.we’re and When we enter this world, surrounded by

28 | 2020 Medical Guide

we’rewe surrounded by love, Don’t deserve the same love, comfort Don’t we deserve the When we enter this world, we’re surrounded by love, comfort and care.

When weleave? enter this world, when we comfort and care. we’re surrounded byleave? love, and care. same when we we’re surrounded by Don’t we deserve the love, same When we enter this world,

comfort and care.the same Don’t we deserve comfort and care.

Don’t we deserve the when whenwe weleave? leave? samewe when we the leave?

Don’t deserve same Don’t we deserve the same when we leave? when we leave?

Hospice of Stanly the Uwharrie believes Hospice of Stanly & the&Uwharrie believes the end of life a meaningful for patients and for their theisend of life is time a meaningful time Hospice of Stanly &Uwharrie the Uwharrie believes Hospice ofpatients Stanly & the believes the end loved ones. For a life limiting illness, andthose theirwith loved ones.

For those Hospice of Stanly & the Uwharrie believes of Stanly the believes the end of Hospice life isend aprovide meaningful time forand patients and their thewe ofa physical, life&limiting is aUwharrie meaningful time for emotional spiritual care, with life illness, we provide the end of life is a meaningful time for of life is a meaningful time for patients and their either at home or wherever a patient calls home. physical, emotional and spiritual care,those loved ones.

For a life limiting illness, patients andthose theirwith loved ones.

For loved ones.

For those with a life limiting illness, patients and their loved ones.

For those either at home or wherever a patient we Hospice provide physical, emotional and spiritual care, with aof life limiting illness, we provide Call Hospice of Stanly & theand Uwharrie, Stanly & the Uwharrie believes thecare, end home. we provide physical, emotional spiritual withcalls aStanly life limiting illness, we provide Hospice of & the Uwharrie believes the end either at home or wherever a patient calls home. because all life’stime stages important— physical, emotional and spiritual care, of life is meaningful for patients and their either at ahome orofwherever aare patient calls home. physical, emotional and spiritual care, some just require extra attention.

704-983-4216 of life is a meaningful time for patients and their Call Hospice of Stanly & the Uwharrie, loved ones.

For those with a life limiting illness, either atathome or wherever patient either home orwith wherever aapatient loved ones.

For those a& life limiting illness, because all life’s stages are importantwe provide physical, emotional and spiritual care, Call Hospice of Stanly & the Uwharrie, Call Hospice of Stanly the Uwharrie, calls home. calls home. some just require extra attention. we provide physical, emotional and spiritual care, either at home or wherever a patient calls home. because life’s stages are because allallofoflife’s stages areimportant— important— 704-983-4216 either at home or wherever a patient calls home.

704-983-4216 704-983-4216 960 North First Street, Albemarle

Hospiceofstanly.org 960 North First Street, Albemarle Hospiceofstanly.org

707219

some just requireextra extra attention. attention. 704-983-4216 some just require 704-983-4216 Call Hospice of Stanly&& &the theUwharrie, Uwharrie, Call the Uwharrie, CallHospice Hospiceof of Stanly Stanly Call Hospice of Stanly & the Uwharrie, because all life’s stages are important because allofof life’s stages are importantbecause all life’s stages are important— because all of life’s stages are important— some— just require extra attention.

704-983-4216 some just require extra attention. some just require extra attention. some just require extra attention. 704-983-4216

707219

Hospiceofstanly.org

Hospiceofstanly.org

Hospice services include: Hospice Nursing Services Focus on managing pain and symptoms that may accompany the illness. A RN is available after hours and on weekends, 24/7, for emergency intervention, questions or support.

Medical Social Worker Services Provides emotional support for the person served and their caregivers, assistance in managing resources, advanced directives and end of life planning.

A hospice aide (CNA) assists with bathing, grooming, specific treatments and other activities of daily living. Hospice aide services may be initiated at any time based on the needs of the patient or caregiver.

707219

960 North First Street, Albemarle 960 North First Street, Albemarle Hospiceofstanly.org Hospiceofstanly.org

Hospice of Stanly & the Uwharrie provides comfort care to persons with a serious illness and helps them find comfort, guidance and peace, all while living life to the fullest. End of life care is very different from general medical services and quite specialized. Hospice of Stanly & the Uwharrie delivers a set of well recognized, high quality services at the end of life to the patient and their family.

Certified Nursing Assistants

960 North First Street, Albemarle Hospiceofstanly.org

960 North First Street, Albemarle Hospiceofstanly.org 960960 North First Street, Albemarle North First Street, Albemarle

Comfort Care with Hospice of Stanly

Chaplain Services An ordained minister is available upon request. The hospice chaplain offers spiritual support to both the patient and family and is available to aide in funeral services.

2020 Medical Guide | 29

Volunteer Services A trained Hospice of Stanly & the Uwharrie volunteer is available upon your request. A volunteer can provide a variety of services that will assist the patient and caregiver.

Examples including singing, family support, reading, as well as friendly companionship.

Bereavement Services The bereavement coordinator will initiate contact with family members and provide grief counseling for up to 1 year following the death of the patient. Family members will have the opportunity to participate in various support groups and/or individual counseling sessions

When is it time for hospice care?

When an individual is told by a doctor that “there is nothing more we can do” or a person is “not responding to treatment,” hospice care can substantially improve the outlook and quality of life.

Here are some signs hospice care may be appropriate: • Increased pain, nausea, breathing distress, anxiety or other debilitating symptoms • Repeated hospitalizations or ER trips • Failure to “bounce back” after medical setbacks • Increasing assistance needed for walking, eating, bathing, dressing and/or toileting • Decreasing alertness, emotional withdrawal, increased sleeping, difficulty with comprehension Hospice care is meant for the last six months of life; however, determining life expectancy is not an exact science and is often overestimated. Most people are surprised to learn that they can access hospice services much earlier than they thought. And, if a patient’s condition changes or they are no longer appropriate for hospice care, the patient can be discharged from the care.

If Hospice of Stanly & the Uwharrie can assist you with caring for a family member or friend at the end of life, or for more information, call 704-983-4216.

30 | 2020 Medical Guide

ExpEriEncEd cardiologist Joining physician group A cardiologist with nearly four decades of experience is joining FirstHealth Physician Group. Tom Wall, M.D., will practice four days a week at FirstHealth clinics in Troy and Asheboro.

Wall comes to FirstHealth from UNC Health Alliance and has spent his career working across North Carolina. He has spent time at Duke University Medical Center, Bowman Gray School of Medicine at Wake Forest University, Cone Healthy, and he has also served as an adjunct professor in UNC Health Care’s Division of Cardiology since 2018.

Wall earned a bachelor’s degree in biology from Hampden-Sydney College in 1978 and earned his doctorate of medicine from Wake Forest University in 1982.

Wall began seeing patients in Montgomery and Randolph counties in late February.

2020 Medical Guide | 31

New MMH President Has Spent Career Working in Rural Hospitals After working for rural hospitals in the western part of North Carolina for two decades, Rebecca W. Carter has come east to lead FirstHealth Montgomery Memorial Hospital (MMH).

Carter has more than 20 years of senior hospital management experience, most recently at Blue Ridge Regional Hospital, a critical access hospital in Spruce Pine, North Carolina. Before that, Carter served as chief operating officer and chief nursing officer for Transylvania Regional Hospital, a rural acute care facility in Brevard, North Carolina.

Carter’s career also includes experience working as a staff nurse and in nursing education.

“This hospital plays a significant role in delivering safe, high-quality care to the communities it serves, and I am excited to build upon the success that has been achieved,” Carter said in a news release announcing her move to FirstHealth.

A North Carolina native, Carter holds undergraduate and graduate degrees in nursing from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.

She was inducted in the American College of Healthcare Executives in 2005, and was recently named to Becker’s Healthcare 70 CEOs, presidents and administrators of critical access hospitals to know.

32 | 2020 Medical Guide