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National Health Literacy Month Breast Cancer Awareness Month GRHC Halloween Candy Giveaway Events Patient Flu Schedule
Caring for Our Community, Supporting Every Journey Welcome to the October Health Update Newsletter. Since 1995, Gila River Health Care (GRHC) has provided self-governed healthcare that honors our patients' culture and needs. By sharing knowledge and support, we strengthen our Community with compassion.
In this issue: October 2026 / Issue 21 Welcome to Health Update, Gila River Health Care's monthly Community newsletter! Published by the Public Relations & Marketing Department, Health Update keeps patients, families, and community members informed with timely health information, organizational news, upcoming events, wellness tips, and stories that matter most to our Community. Our goal is to share valuable resources and important updates that help you stay connected with Gila River Health Care and the services available to you.
1. Halloween Safety: Tips and Tricks 2. Save The Date: GRHC Halloween Candy Giveaway 3. Breast Cancer Awareness Month 4. National Health Literacy Month 5. Eye Injury Prevention Month: Protect Your Vision 6. National Dental Hygiene Month: Keep Your Smile Healthy 7. October Recipe: Healthy Chicken Bake 8. Patient Flu Shot Availability
Halloween Safety: Tips and Tricks Halloween is a fun time for children and adults, but a little preparation can go a long way toward keeping everyone safe. Choose costumes that fit properly and avoid long, loose fabric that could cause trips or falls. Make sure masks and accessories do not block vision, and consider using face paint instead. For added visibility after dark, use reflective tape or bright colors and carry a flashlight or glow stick. If you’re heading out for trick-or-treating, stay on sidewalks whenever possible and cross streets at designated crosswalks. Younger children should be accompanied by a trusted adult, while older children should have a planned route and a way to stay in contact. Before enjoying treats, check that wrappers are sealed and review labels carefully for food allergies or dietary restrictions. Keep medications, such as an emergency allergy treatment, easily accessible if needed. At home, take a few minutes to make your property safe for visitors. Keep walkways, stairs, and porches well lit and free of decorations, cords, and other tripping hazards. Choose battery-powered candles instead of open flames, and keep decorations away from heat sources. With a few simple precautions, you can focus on what Halloween is all about—having fun, making memories, and enjoying the celebration safely.
Halloween treats don’t have to be all candy! Non-food treats can also be a fun alternative, including stickers, glow sticks, pencils, temporary tattoos, or small toys. Offering a variety of choices can help make Halloween enjoyable while encouraging healthier habits for the whole family.
SAVE THE DATE E M P L O Y E E
E N G A G E M E N T
P R E S E N T S
OCTOBER 28TH, 2026 8:30 AM - 12:30 PM
HALLOWEEN CANDY GIVEAWAY Join us for this year’s Halloween Candy Giveaway! All sites will host the event on Wednesday, October 28th from 8:30 AM - 12:30
PARTICIPATING SITES
The Caring House Red Tail Hawk Health Center Komatke Health Center
QUESTIONS? EMAIL: EVENTSCOMMITTEE@GRHC.ORG
Breast Cancer Awareness Month October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, an annual observance dedicated to increasing awareness of breast cancer, encouraging early detection, supporting those affected by the disease, and highlighting the importance of access to quality breast health care.
feel. The appropriate age to begin screening and how often to receive a mammogram can depend on factors such as age, personal health history, family history, and individual risk. Talk with your healthcare provider about the screening schedule that is right for you.
Breast cancer is one of the most common cancers affecting women, although men can develop breast cancer as well. While many people diagnosed with breast cancer have no known risk factors, understanding your personal and family health history can help you and your healthcare provider determine whether you may have an increased risk.
People with a higher-than-average risk of breast cancer may need additional screening or earlier monitoring. If you have a strong family history of breast cancer or certain other cancers, discuss your risk with your healthcare provider.
Know Your Breast Health Being familiar with how your breasts normally look and feel can help you recognize changes that may need medical attention. Changes can include a new lump or swelling, a change in the size or shape of a breast, skin changes such as dimpling or redness, nipple changes, or unusual nipple discharge. Not every breast change is a sign of cancer. Many changes are caused by conditions that are not cancerous. However, it is important to talk with a healthcare professional about any new or unusual changes rather than trying to determine the cause on your own.
The Importance of Screening Breast cancer screening can help detect cancer before symptoms develop. Mammograms are an important screening tool and can help identify abnormalities that may be too small to
Take Action This October Breast Cancer Awareness Month is a reminder that taking care of your health is a year-round responsibility. Know your personal and family health history, understand your breast cancer risk, follow recommended screening guidelines, and talk with your healthcare provider about any concerns or changes. This October, make breast health a priority. Encourage the people you care about to do the same. Awareness, open conversations, and appropriate screening can help people make informed decisions about their health and seek care when it is needed. Medical Imaging provides mobile on-site mammography (MOM)
National Health Literacy Month
October is National Health Literacy Month, a time to recognize the important role that health literacy plays in helping people understand and manage their health. Health literacy is more than simply being able to read health information. It includes the ability to find, understand, evaluate, and use health information to make informed decisions about your health and healthcare. Healthcare can sometimes feel complicated. Medical terms, treatment options, insurance information, prescription instructions, test results, and healthcare forms can be difficult to understand. National Health Literacy Month encourages healthcare organizations and professionals to communicate in ways that are clear, understandable, and accessible to everyone. Good health literacy can help people become more confident participants in their own healthcare. When patients understand their conditions, medications, treatment plans, and follow-up instructions, they may be better prepared to make informed decisions and communicate their needs with their healthcare team. It can also help patients recognize when they should seek medical attention and understand how to take the next step in their care.
Ask Questions One of the most important parts of health literacy is knowing that it is okay to ask questions. Patients should never feel embarrassed about asking a healthcare professional to explain something in simpler terms or repeat information. Before leaving an appointment, consider asking: • What is my diagnosis or health concern? • What are my treatment options? • What do I need to do at home? • How and when should I take my medications? • What side effects should I watch for? • When should I follow up? • What symptoms mean I should contact my healthcare provider?
National Health Literacy Month is an opportunity for all of us to make healthcare communication clearer. Whether you are a patient, caregiver, family member, or healthcare professional,
taking steps to improve understanding can make a meaningful difference. This October, take an active role in your health. Ask questions, seek reliable information, and make sure you understand your healthcare plan. When health information is clear and accessible, people are better equipped to make informed decisions and take steps toward healthier lives.
Eye Injury Prevention Month: Protect Your Vision Your eyes are an important part of staying active, independent, and connected to the people and world around you. Eye Injury Prevention Month is a reminder that many eye injuries can be prevented with a few simple safety steps. Protect your eyes when working around dust, chemicals, tools, or other materials that could cause injury. Wear properly fitted safety glasses or protective eyewear when doing home repairs, yard work, construction, or other activities that may put your eyes at risk. Children should also wear appropriate eye protection during sports and recreational activities when recommended. Never look directly at the sun, lasers, fireworks, or other intense sources of light. Keep household chemicals and cleaning products away from children, and avoid touching or rubbing your eyes with dirty hands. If an eye injury occurs, do not rub or apply pressure to the eye. Chemical exposure should be flushed with clean water immediately, and serious injuries—including sudden vision changes, severe eye pain, bleeding, or an object stuck in the eye—require prompt medical attention. Protect your eyes today to help preserve your vision for tomorrow. If you have concerns about your vision or an eye injury, *contact Gila River Health Care for guidance and appropriate care. *See back page for all Optometry phone numbers
National Dental Hygiene Month: Keep Your Smile Healthy National Dental Hygiene Month is a great time to focus on the simple daily habits that help keep your teeth, gums, and entire mouth healthy. Good oral health is an important part of your overall health and well-being. Brush your teeth twice a day for two minutes using fluoride toothpaste, and clean between your teeth daily with floss or another recommended interdental cleaner. Limiting sugary foods and drinks can also help prevent cavities. Drinking water throughout the day is a healthy choice for your teeth and body. Regular dental visits are important even when your mouth feels healthy. Dental professionals can identify cavities, gum disease, and other concerns early, when they are often easier to treat. Children should also receive regular dental care and learn healthy brushing and flossing habits at an early age. Watch for warning signs such as tooth pain, swollen or bleeding gums, persistent bad breath, loose teeth, mouth sores that do not heal, or sensitivity that continues. These symptoms should be discussed with a dental professional. At Gila River Health Care*, we encourage patients and families to make oral health part of their regular health routine. A few minutes of care each day can help protect your smile and support a healthier you for years to come. *See back page for all Dental phone numbers
October Recipe: Healthy Chicken Pasta A delicious, comforting casserole packed with lean chicken, whole-grain pasta, vegetables, and a creamy tomato sauce. Good food. Better health!
Healthy Chicken Pasta Bake Ingredients • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •
12 ounces whole-wheat penne or rotini pasta 2 cups cooked, boneless skinless chicken breast, diced 1 tablespoon olive oil 1 small onion, chopped 2 cloves garlic, minced 1 medium zucchini, diced 1 red bell pepper, diced 1½ cups low-sodium marinara sauce ½ cup low-fat cottage cheese ½ cup plain nonfat Greek yogurt 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning ½ teaspoon black pepper 1 cup shredded part-skim mozzarella cheese 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese Fresh parsley or basil for garnish, optional
Directions
Healthy Tip Choose whole-wheat pasta, low-sodium marinara sauce, lean chicken breast, and reduced-fat cheese to add fiber and protein while keeping sodium and saturated fat lower. Add extra vegetables such as spinach, mushrooms, or broccoli for even more nutrition.
Cook the pasta. Preheat oven to 375°F. Cook the pasta according to package directions, but remove it about 1–2 minutes before it is fully tender. Drain and set aside. Cook the vegetables. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onion, zucchini, and bell pepper. Cook for 5–6 minutes, until the vegetables begin to soften. Add the garlic and cook for another minute. Make the sauce. In a large bowl, combine the marinara sauce, cottage cheese, Greek yogurt, Italian seasoning, and black pepper. Stir until well combined. Combine the ingredients. Add the cooked pasta, chicken, and sautéed vegetables to the sauce mixture. Stir gently until everything is evenly coated. Assemble the bake. Transfer the mixture to a lightly greased 9-by-13-inch baking dish. Sprinkle the mozzarella and Parmesan evenly over the top. Bake. Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes, or until the casserole is heated through and the cheese is melted and lightly golden. Serve. Let the pasta bake cool for about 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley or basil, if desired.
2026 -2027
Flu Shots Now Available W BY APPOINTMENT ANY GILA RIVER HEALTH CARE PRIMARY CARE DEPARTMENT
Open 8 am - 5 pm Hu Hu Kam Memorial Hospital (520) 562-3321 Ext. 1495
Hau’pal (Red Tail Hawk) Health Center (520) 796-2697
Komatke Health Center (520) 550-6000
Pediatrics Department (520) 562-3321 Ext. 7337
ELIGIBILITY GUIDELINES: Gila River Indian Community enrolled members and all federally recognized tribal members.
GILA RIVER HEALTH CARE RESOURCES F R E Q U E N T L Y Hu Hu Kam Memorial Hospital Main Number: (520) 562-3321 Behavioral Health . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ext. 7100 Customer Service. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ext. 1177 / 4017 Dental. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ext. 1209 Imaging . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ext. 1232 Infusion Clinic . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ext. 1219 Inpatient Clinic . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ext. 1218 Laboratory. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ext. 1220 Life Center . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ext. 7940 Optometry . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ext. 7365 Patient Registration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ext. 1204 Pharmacy Refill Line . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ext. 1270 Physical Therapy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ext. 1230 Podiatry . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ext. 1258 Primary Care . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ext. 1495 Purchased Referred Care . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ext. 6025 Women’s Health Clinic . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ext. 1400
C A L L E D
E X T E N S I O N S
Komatke Health Center Main Number: (520) 550-6000 Behavioral Health . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ext. 6008 Customer Service. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ext. 6609 Dental. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ext. 6015 Imaging . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ext. 6044 Laboratory . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ext. 6016 Life Center . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ext. 6470 Optometry . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ext. 6012 Patient Registration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ext. 6006 Pharmacy Refill Line . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ext. 1303 Physical Therapy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ext. 6213 Podiatry . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ext. 6520 Primary Care . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ext. 6000 Purchased Referred Care . . . . . . . . . . . . Ext. 5000 Women’s Health Clinic . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ext. 6110
Hau’pal (Red Tail Hawk) Health Center Main Number: (520) 796-2600
Behavioral Health Services Main Number: (602) 528-7100
Audiology . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ext. 2965 Behavioral Health . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ext. 2620 Customer Service. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ext. 2619 Dental. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ext. 2682 Imaging . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ext. 2655 Infusion Clinic . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ext. 1219 Inpatient Clinic . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ext. 1218 Laboratory . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ext. 2651 Life Center . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ext. 2657 Optometry . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ext. 2690 Patient Registration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ext. 2737 Physical Therapy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ext. 2715 Podiatry . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ext. 2664 Primary Care . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ext. 2697 Purchased Referred Care . . . . . . . . . . . . Ext. 5000 Women’s Health Clinic . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ext. 2693
Gila River Indian Community Crisis Line . . . . (800) 259-3449 National Suicide Lifeline . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 988
Gila River Indian Community District Service Centers District 1 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . (520) 215-2110 District 2 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . (520) 562-3450 District 3 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . (520) 562-3334 District 4 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . (520) 418-3661 District 5 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . (520) 315-3441 District 6 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . (520) 550-3805 District 7 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . (520) 430-4780
Public Health Nursing (PHN) Main Office West-Komatke Health Center, Shegoi Building Main Line: (520) 550-6042 PHN Office Serving District 1 Community . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . (520) 215-2110 PHN Office Serving District 2 Community . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . (520) 562-3450 PHN Office Serving District 3 Community . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . (520) 562-3321 PHN Office Serving District 4 Community . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . (520) 418-2845 PHN Office Serving District 5 Community . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . (520) 315-3826 / 3242 PHN Office Serving District 6 & 7 Community . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . (520) 550-6042