2015 Whatcom County Health Care Guide

June 17, 2015

Whatcom County

Health Care Guide

A Guide to Preventative Health Care and Well-Being

A special publication prepared by the Lynden Tribune and Ferndale Record

Leave your knee pain behind You’ve got more important things to do with your time. Joint replacement can help you leave the painful ache of arthritis behind. Take the next step at www.peacehealth.org/ortho.

Dear Reader, Our 2015 Whatcom County Health Care Guide contains a question-and-answer forum supplied by local health care providers. The Lynden Tribune and Ferndale Record have joined in obtaining the information available in this magazine.

This medical guide should not be used as a substitute for advice from a medical professional, but it may help readers learn how to seek advice and from whom. This directory provides general information and is not intended to replace your own doctor’s advice. Enjoy your reading!

Thank you,

2015 Whatcom County Health Care Guide • Lynden Tribune & Ferndale Record

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PeaceHealth St. Joseph Medical Center I’m struggling to care for my kids and my aging parents. Help!

Being part of the sandwich generation – adults who are caught in between caring for both their young children and their elderly parents – can feel overwhelming to anyone. Swapping roles can stir up emotions in all family members.

The best way to plan for this transition is for everyone involved – parents and adult siblings – to communicate clearly about goals, responsibilities and expectations.

Each person’s needs vary as they age. Some parents need help managing finances and social outings. Others will need help with health issues and daily care.

Look for resources in your community that can help provide the support you and your parents need. Services vary from place to place but generally range from part-time help to assisted living to respite care for caregivers.

Talk to your parent’s primary care provider to identify how best to meet his or her medical needs.

Finally, be sure to care for yourself. You can only give your best to others when you are cared for as well.

Visit www.peacehealth.org/whatcom/seniorhealth for resources that may be helpful.

Angie K. Lee, MD

Gerontology Center for Senior Health 3015 Squalicum Parkway, Suite 100 Bellingham, WA 360-715-4186

I have arthritis. What kind of exercise will work for me?

For people with osteoarthritis, exercise can help you manage joint pain and feel better. Extended breaks in your workout can actually make your arthritis symptoms worse.

Try these exercises to help manage your health: Aerobics: Consistent aerobic exercise is important for helping maintain your cardiovascular health. Even better, cardiovascular exercise increases endorphins and helps reduce joint pain, making it easier to live with arthritis.

Try low impact options like swimming, water aerobics or walking.

Strength training: Weak muscles can stress joints causing pain and joint deterioration. Strong muscles support the bones and joints, relieving pain and pressure. Tax your muscles safely so they grow stronger. Exercises like push-ups, pull-ups, sit-ups and squats use your body weight to strengthen muscles.

Flexibility: Stretching muscles and ligaments reduces stress on your joints and helps improve balance, reducing the risk of falls. Yoga and Tai Chi are great ways to increase your flexibility and improve your balance.

Jeffrey M. Krusniak, DO

Orthopedics PeaceHealth Medical Group – Orthopedics Whatcom County Locations in Lynden and Bellingham 360-733-2092

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Lynden Tribune & Ferndale Record • 2015 Whatcom County Health Care Guide

Lynden Family Physical Therapy Physical Therapy – Optimizing Function and Enhancing Quality of Life People throughout Whatcom County are experiencing optimized function through the transforming effects of physical therapy. As experts in movement, exercise, health and wellness, injury prevention, and returning you and your family to optimized well-being, physical therapists are uniquely equipped to help patients and clients of all ages improve movement and enhance qualify of life. Here are five ways physical therapists at Lynden Family Physical Therapy are serving you.

We Listen: Healthcare is changing. But having a clinician who actively listens to you and involves you in your plan of care and recovery should not. At Lynden Family Physical Therapy patients receive one-on-one, personalized care by a licensed therapist.

Improving Mobility and Motion: Did you know physical activity can improve strength and endurance, control weight and lower your risk for obesity and type II diabetes, build strong bones and muscles, improve blood pressure and lower heart rate, while positively impacting almost every system in your body? Physical therapists promote physical activity and work to restore mobility by improving balance, strength, and conditioning, all while educating and empowering you for improved well being.

Reducing Barriers to Care: A recent survey by the American Physical Therapy Association (APTA) revealed that more than 70% of individuals believe a referral or prescription is necessary for evaluation and to begin physical therapy. However, Washington State currently allows many individuals direct access to their physical therapists without a need for a referral. By reducing barriers to care we are able to serve you and your family more efficiently.

Decreasing Pain and Improving Function: While many believe movement will increase their pain, physical therapists are trained to minimize your pain and discomfort, including those suffering from chronic and long-term pain. By working within your threshold, providing education about pain and management, and empowering you to actively participate in your recovery, restoration of movement, function, and daily activities is achievable.

Providing Care throughout the Lifespan: Whether providing care after a sprained ankle when 5 years of age, reducing the risk for ACL injury in a high school athlete, or improving balance, coordination, and strength when 95 years of age physical therapists work throughout the lifespan by listening, evaluating, and collaborating with you in creating a plan of care which focuses on your goals and enables you to Keep Moving!

2015 Whatcom County Health Care Guide • Lynden Tribune & Ferndale Record

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PeaceHealth St. Joseph Medical Center How can I help my kids make healthier food choices?

When it comes to choosing healthy foods, whether you are a child or an adult, practice makes perfect.

If you’ve spent much of your life snacking on junk food and ordering pizza for dinner, it may feel difficult to make the healthy changes you’d like. The key is to start slowly and keep practicing healthy behaviors.

Rather than eliminating all snack foods at once, try incorporating organic fruit and vegetable snacks into your diet each day. Over time, you can tip the balance, adding more healthy foods and fewer processed foods.

To shift away from sugary carbonated drinks, try replacing one soda a day with organic fruit juice. You’ll still be getting a lot of sugar, but you will be slowly eliminating the chemicals found in soda.

Once you’ve made the switch from soda, you can start trading juice for unsweetened tea or water with lemon, both healthier choices.

By making just one small change a day and building on that success, you’ll empower your children to make healthy choices without feeling deprived. They will have the power in their hands to live a healthy life.

Harpreet Nagra, MD

Pediatrics PeaceHealth Medical Group – Pediatrics 4545 Cordata parkway, Suite 1F Bellingham, WA 360-738-2200

I am newly pregnant, and my sister suggested I consider a midwife for my delivery. What do I need to know?

Similar to medical doctors who specialize in obstetrics and gynecology (OB/Gyns), certified nurse midwives (CNMs) are trained health professionals who specialize in women’s health.

Both CNMs and OB/Gyns provide a full range of primary health care services to women of all ages, including gynecological checkups, family planning, preconception care, prenatal and postpartum care, and delivery. OB/ Gyns are also licensed to perform surgical procedures.

Seeing a midwife for care during your pregnancy can be a good choice for many moms-to-be. If there are no complications with your pregnancy, a staff midwife will be available to deliver your baby at PeaceHealth St. Joseph Medical Center. With four midwives at PeaceHealth Medical Group in Bellingham, one midwife is always available to support you throughout the birth process.

For low-risk pregnancies, working with a CNM and delivering at a hospital birth center could provide you with the best of both worlds – high tech and human touch – when it comes to your baby’s delivery.

Natalie Weatherby, CNM

Certified Nurse Midwife PeaceHealth Medical Group – Obstetrics and Gynecology 4465 Cordata Parkway, Suite C Bellingham, WA 360-752-5280

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Lynden Tribune & Ferndale Record • 2015 Whatcom County Health Care Guide

Lamphere Insurance, Financial & Estate Planning Medicare Health Coverage Question: I’m eligible for Medicare and...I got a letter from my Doctor’s Group recommending that I contact an Insurance Broker in another town. Do I have to call them in order to get a health plan to go with Medicare?

Absolutely not!!

We frequently have clients who bring a letter like this to our office. They are upset that they received the letter, which they believe gives them no choice but to go with an out-of-town agency.

Because we often hear this complaint, and to help protect our clients, we spoke with a Washington State Insurance Inspector. He commented that although the letter may seem misleading, it is not illegal. Insurance books tell us that what is ethical and what is legal are not always the same thing.

When selecting an Insurance Broker you may want to consider: • Working with someone you trust and feel comfortable with • An agent with a good reputation and a long-standing presence in your community • The agent’s expertise and experience in specialized types of coverage • An agency that works with multiple insurance carriers, which allows them to be less biased and offers a better selection for the consumer • An agency that does not have apparent ties to a particular physicians group.

If you would like assistance regarding Medicare health coverage with a local, trustworthy representative in the greater Lynden area, feel free to give us a call.

MEDICARE? RETIRING SOON?

Ready for ...

We can help you: Sign up for ...

MEDICARE Sign up for ...... MEDICARE PLANS Maximize ...........

Social Security Income

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354-5333

Jeff Lamphere

113 THIRD STREET • LYNDEN

2015 Whatcom County Health Care Guide • Lynden Tribune & Ferndale Record

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Lynden Manor What is Lynden Manor?

• Lynden Manor is an assisted-living retirement home.

• Residents are as independent as they want to be.

• Meals are provided restaurant style for the residents in a common dining room.

• Apartments are cleaned weekly.

• An assortment of activities are offered and available on a daily basis.

• Residents have access to licensed nursing staff 24 hours a day.

• Lynden Manor has a separate dementia care wing.

Why Lynden Manor?

• Lynden Manor is independent, assisted and dementia care all in one.

• Privately owned by a local partnership.

• Highly recommended by local physicians.

• Excellent reputation in Whatcom County.

• Next door to Christian Health Care Center, a skilled nursing facility with a rehabilitation department.

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Lynden Tribune & Ferndale Record • 2015 Whatcom County Health Care Guide

United Way of Whatcom County What community-wide goals is United Way of Whatcom County focusing on in the area of Health?

1. Ensuring healthy and active living 2. Increasing health care access and prevention 3. Increasing safety so that people avoid/recover from the effects of violence/ abuse

United Way is solving crucial issues right here in Whatcom County. By using a variety of tactics and working with a diverse set of dedicated partners, United Way ensures a strong and healthy community for all.

How can you receive a discount on prescription drugs?

Through United Way’s partnership with FamilyWize you could save up to 75% on your prescriptions. Just cut out the Prescription Discount Card on this page or go to familywize.org, take it to a participating pharmacy (over 60,000 participating pharmacies nationwide!), and use it over and over again. No signup or activation required. More than 10,000 Whatcom County residents have already saved more than $980,000 on prescription costs.

United Way of Whatcom County unitedwaywhatcom.org

WE ALL WIN WHEN

KIDS AND ADULTS

ARE LIVING

HEALTHY AND

ACTIVE LIVES

United Way is working here in Whatcom County to increase healthy and active living for all.

By supporting programs & using strategies to increase physical activity and enhance healthy options, we are building a stronger community. That’s what it means to LIVE UNITED!

2015 Whatcom County Health Care Guide • Lynden Tribune & Ferndale Record

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Rebound Physical, Occupational & Hand Therapy What’s new for Tennis Elbow?

With tennis elbow, you get very small tears to the tendons, which then form scar tissue. Scar tissue restricts blood flow and causes pain. Therapists use stainless steel Graston tools to locate and massage problem areas. Graston tools and techniques are 90% effective for breaking up scar tissue to allow healing. Graston tools and techniques require specialized training and are available at ReBound PT, OT, and Hand Therapy. If you have been dealing with tennis elbow for a short or long time, this treatment may be the ticket for your recovery!

I heard Rebound Physical Therapy is starting an aquatic program. What are the benefits of aquatic therapy vs. the more traditional land-based setting?

Performing therapy in the water provides several added benefits for patients. First, the buoyancy of water decreases weight-bearing, putting less stress on joints and bones. This environment allows for earlier mobility and consequently less atrophy of muscles. Second, the water produces a natural resistance to movement ideal for whole-body strengthening. Finally, most patients report a decrease in pain when comparing to land-based exercise, making for a quicker progression and recovery.

“Experts in Injury Rehabilitation & Prevention.”

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Lynden Tribune & Ferndale Record • 2015 Whatcom County Health Care Guide

Mt. Baker Vision Clinic When should children have their first eye exam?

Most professional eye organizations recommend a child have their first eye exam by five years old. However, if you suspect a problem with your child’s eyes, exams can be done at any age, including soon after birth.

Should my children wear sunglasses?

Experts say 50 percent of our lifetime exposure to UV rays may occur by age 18. Given that cumulative UV damage to eyes causes diseases like cataracts and macular degeneration later in life, make sure your kids’ eyes are protected from the sun with good quality glasses.

MT. BAKER VISION CLINIC Dr. Wayne Musselman

Dr. Jeffrey Larson

BELLINGHAM • New, state of the art building • Best selection of eyewear and sunwear in NW Washington 720 Birchwood Ave.

733-1720 Mon. - Fri. 8am-5:30pm

Dr. Brian Koning

LYNDEN •Personalized vision care since 1989 • Small town flavor • Full medical and eye emergency care 1610 Grover

354-7933

Mon., Wed., Thurs.

8:30am-5pm Tues., 10am-5pm Fri., 12-5pm

You deserve the best in optical and medical eye care!

Since 1951. One Clinic. Two Locations.

Give us a call or check out our website • www.mtbakervision.com

2015 Whatcom County Health Care Guide • Lynden Tribune & Ferndale Record

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Walk-In Health Clinic Inc.

Van Dalen Insurance

Do I need an appointment?

If I am a small business owner without a group plan established for my employees, do I have to wait until open No. Just walk in 7 days a week between 8:30am and 5:00pm. enrollment to purchase an employer sponsored health inWe accept most insurance and are preferred by many. We also surance plan for my company? accept private pay at a discount at time of service.

No. You can purchase a small group insurance plan at any Do I need antibiotics? time during the year!

Are you aware that colds, flu, most sore throats, and bronchitis are caused by viruses? Did you know that antibiotics do not help fight viruses? It’s true. Plus, taking antibiotics when you have a virus may do more harm than good. Taking antibiotics when they are not needed increases your risk of getting an infection later that resists antibiotic treatment.

If I choose to have no health insurance in 2016 what is the penalty?

For 2016, the penalty for an individual will be either $695 or 2.5% of your annual income, whichever is greater.

2220 Cornwall Ave., Bellingham Bunk’s Medical Center Providing quality, affordable healthcare services for 20 years Please See Us at Our New Location, One Block North of Assumption Church (360)

Are you in need of health insurance?

Call us to find out if you qualify for a special enrollment period!

We can help with:

734-2330

Call for Approximate Wait Time walkinhealthclinic.com

7 Days a Week No Appointment Necessary Board Certified M.D.s on Staff Most Insurance Plans Accepted Medicare & DSHS Patients Welcome

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Shane Van Dalen, Agent

• Washington Healthplanfinder Coverage for individuals & families • Individual & Family direct purchase plans • Small group employer plans • Short-term medical coverage (purchase anytime) • Medadvantage & Medicare Supplement plans • Long term care

VAN DALEN INSURANCE

Kimberly Hansen, Agent

360-354-4433

517 Liberty Street • Lynden, WA • Hours: M-F 8am-5pm

Lynden Tribune & Ferndale Record • 2015 Whatcom County Health Care Guide

Asthma & Allergy Center of Whatcom County Is there a way to prevent food allergy? My four year old daughter has severe nut and egg allergy and I am concerned about my three month old son developing the same problem.

Food allergy associated with the sudden onset of allergy symptoms with the potential to progress to anaphylaxis, a life threatening allergic reaction, is often diagnosed within the first few years of life. It is a diagnosis that is very worrisome for parents whose task it is to prevent accidental exposure to even trace amount of allergenic foods, and who must always be on the alert, ready to make life making decisions on behalf of their allergic child. The question of allergy prevention has been addressed recently in the LEAP study (Learning Early About Peanut allergy), published in February of this year. This study showed that the introduction of peanut within four to eleven months of age in infants at high risk of developing food allergy dramatically decreases the risk of developing peanut allergy, by approximately 70 to 80%. Although many questions remain about evaluation and the optimal management strategies for young children with food allergy, some recommendations have been provided for allergy specialists in determining which infants should be evaluated for physician supervised early peanut consumption. If there are concerns about food allergy in your child, discuss food introduction with your child’s health care provider. For more information on the LEAP study, see the link on the front page of AsthmaAllergyWhat.com.

“putting you in control of your allergies and asthma” William H. Anderson, M.D. Board Certified, Allergy - Immunology Children and Adults

Located in the Barkley Medical Center 756-2000

www.AsthmaAllergyWhat.com • www.WhatcomPollen.com

2015 Whatcom County Health Care Guide • Lynden Tribune & Ferndale Record

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Cascade Connections How do I get started with Cascade Connections Home Care?

Please call us at (360) 594-4216. If you are qualified to receive our services, we will set up a time for you to meet with our program director personally. Our confidential assessments are always free and there is no obligation.

What are your hiring standards?

Our home care aides are screened through a number of processes, including interview, reference checks, background checks, driving abstracts, and drug testing. Along with a home care aide license, we also require all of our home care aides to have CPR and First Aid certificates.

How can Cascade Connections keep me independent in my own home?

By providing compassionate, competent care, we help extend independent living while promoting physical and mental well-being. Our home care aides are thoroughly screened and trained to ensure that you and your loved one receive the highest standard of care. Our care aides are trained in senior services, intellectual disabilities, and Alzheimer’s and dementia care. Let our qualified care aides help with personal care, housekeeping, and companion care. Call us for a free assessment and see how we can meet you or your loved one’s needs.

What trainings do you provide?

Our home care aide training certification prepares you for your career in caregiving. We provide relevant, Department of Health approved continuing education classes for home care aides in the classroom or online. We also train our community in CPR/First Aid, cultural diversity, dementia classes and more. Students are given hands-on opportunities in class from our certified instructors.

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Lynden Tribune & Ferndale Record • 2015 Whatcom County Health Care Guide

2015 Whatcom County Health Care Guide • Lynden Tribune & Ferndale Record

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Yeh Orthodontics What are some of the conditions that might indicate my child should be seen by an orthodontist? * Early or late loss of primary teeth * Difficulty in chewing or biting * Mouth breathing * Thumb or finger sucking * Crowded, misplaced, or impacted teeth * Improper fit of jaws * Biting cheeks or biting into the roof of the mouth

How do I know if orthodontic treatment is needed?

A lot of children need to see an orthodontist long before they need braces. Not all crowded teeth nor bite problems are obvious. Some conditions can cause future problems. All children should have an orthodontic evaluation at age seven.

Complimentary consultations are provided.

Can braces be placed on a child too early?

Monitoring growth and development is an important component of orthodontics. Early treatment may be recommended to help reduce or eliminate complexities in the future. Sometimes children benefit from expanding devices or removal of primary teeth in conjunction with using space maintaining devices.

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Lynden Tribune & Ferndale Record • 2015 Whatcom County Health Care Guide

Visiting Angels My parents are at the point of needing help in their home. This is new and uncharted territory for us. How do you go about finding caregivers to work with people like my parents?

We know that this is a difficult decision to make. We approach this as if it were our home and our parents. In our hiring process we first look for caregivers that have the compassion and skill to do the job. They must have the heart to care like family and the knowledge and ability to give the care. Secondly, caregivers must be dependable. Their dependability has a domino effect, they must show up and be on time! Life has enough challenges without you having to worry about help that doesn’t arrive on time. Finally, a caregiver must be trustworthy. Having someone new in your home can be scary.

That all sounds great. But how do you assure that this is true about your caregivers?

At Visiting Angels we not only value these things, we actually test for them. We are the only ones in our area to use a nationally recognized Caregiver Assessment tool that measures for a caregiver’s ability to work well one-on-one, and measures their character for reliability and trustworthiness.

And for your peace of mind, we assign a specific Case Manager to meet with you and your family, to get to know them, and the client’s needs. That same Case Manager introduces our caregivers to you on the first visit, as well as monitors the ongoing care.

Call for a FREE

“W e m easu

e

in-home consultation

th e y b s s e c c u re o u r s

liv es w e to u ch .”

• On call 24/7 • Personalized case-by-case care • You choose your care giver • All levels of care • 1 to 24 hours of care • Comprehensive Caregiver Screening & Testing

Bellingham Office

Mount Vernon Office

1222 Riverside Dr. 4213 Rural Ave. (360) 424-6777 (360) 671-8388 Everett Office Toll Free 866-522-6435 2532 Wetmore Toll Free 888-264-3528 (425) 348-9914 Toll Free 866-348-9914

We serve Whatcom, Skagit, San Juan, Island & Snohomish Counties

Visit our website at www.VisitingAngelsWA.com

2015 Whatcom County Health Care Guide • Lynden Tribune & Ferndale Record

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YMCA

factors that contribute to our bodies being hunched forward and our growing disability to straighten out. Think about all the forward flexion activities in your daily lives: cooking, eating, working at the computer, reading, driving, and so on. Most of what we do is in front of us, sorely neglecting important parts of our supportive core. As we continue to flex forward we may shift our center of gravity and face struggles with gait and balance.

Sit Up Straight (because your mom was right!)

Did you take a lot of flak when you were a kid for slumping over? Maybe when you were standing and slouching, maybe when you slid down in a chair, shoulders and low back rounded, chin tucked to chest? Do you remember a parent or teacher admonishing your posture and maybe even threatening that if you kept it up, it would stick that way? Well, to a certain extent, that may be true. Your muscles, bones and connective tissue will accommodate your posture, and if your posture is poor you may end up having a difficult time straightening out.

We are not doomed to excessive forward flexion though. There are some simple things you can do to heighten your awareness of your posture, core flexibility and balance. To keep your chest up and open, try to remind yourself (and set up your work/play spaces) so you can look at things at head height. If you practice balance or strength exercises at home, this is a simple reminder for keeping your head and chest lifted. Once your head and chest are lifted, practice deeper breathing a few times a day, taking a minute or two to breathe deep into your rib cage or belly with your shoulders down from your ears. You may find an added bonus to these breaths as they have been shown to decrease stress.

When you were younger, poor posture may have been a result of boredom, a physical sign of disinterest, or even a bit of laziness. Later in life, especially our high tech lives, there may be many

Once your head and chest are lifted, try strengthening your upper middle back by doing scapular retraction (squeezing your shoulder blades together). Sit tall and gently squeeze your shoulder blades in and down, relax, and repeat. Having some strength in your back can assist your upright posture with less muscle fatigue.

To make sure your spine stays mobile (if approved by your physician) try a seated trunk rotation. Sitting tall, rotate to your right with your right arm behind you for support and your left hand on the outside of your knee to assist in the stretch. Take a couple of deep breaths before releasing, and then repeat on the other side. Take the stretch slow and easy as this movement should not be painful.

ENERGIZED EVERY DAY Active Older Adults

Silver Sneakers, Water Exercise, Zumba Gold & more!

WHATCOM FAMILY YMCA

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www.whatcomymca.org

A big step in improving your posture is the awareness that it needs improving. Take a look at your posture and if you feel it could use some improvement, then try one or all of the techniques above. Once you’ve mastered consistently sitting up straight again, the last of that nagging, ‘Sit up straight!’ voice should fade once and for all.

Lynden Tribune & Ferndale Record • 2015 Whatcom County Health Care Guide

Dorsch Family Dental Need a dental crown? Dorsch Family Dental gives you something to smile about.

What is a dental crown and what purpose do they serve?

A dental crown is a tooth-shaped cap, used to completely cover a tooth. Dental crowns are most often used for protecting a tooth when its ongoing health is at risk.

What is the procedure like?

Traditionally a two-appointment procedure, Dorsch Family Dental uses CAD/CAM (computer-aided design and computer-aided manufacturing) technology to complete the procedure in just one appointment.

Dental offices that don’t offer this technology require patients to attend two appointments for the procedure; a temporary crown is placed at the first appointment and patients return to have it removed and a permanent crown inserted.

Tell me more about this technology.

CAD/CAM expedites the creation of permanent crowns by allowing Dorsch Family Dental to create them in the office. The digital chairside impressioning system matches the exact shape and size of a patient’s existing tooth.

What are the benefits of CAD/CAM? CAD/CAM saves patients time while offering an overall more enjoyable experience. The technology also allows Dorsch Family Dental to preserve more of a patient’s healthy, natural tooth structure.

2015 Whatcom County Health Care Guide • Lynden Tribune & Ferndale Record

Mathew Dorsch, DDS, owner of Dorsch Family Dental has been serving families in our community since 2008.

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P&O Whatcom health guide.indd 2

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AM Lynden Tribune & Ferndale Record • 2015 Whatcom County6/1/2015 Health8:38:10 Care Guide

Cascade Prosthetics & Orthotics Will insurance cover my new orthosis (brace)?

In most cases insurance will cover the orthosis if there is a doctor’s prescription and it is a covered service in your policy. Medicare now requires physicians to write in their chart notes why the orthosis is necessary, what benefit the orthosis will provide, and why it should be custom vs. prefabricated.

How often will my prosthesis (artificial limb) need to be replaced?

This depends on many factors such as a patient’s age, activity level, and how recent the amputation occurred. Most prostheses will last 2-5 years with minor adjustments and repairs. There are always components and parts that wear out, so patients should see their prosthetist at least once a year.

2015 Whatcom County Health Care Guide • Lynden Tribune & Ferndale Record

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Gentle Acupuncture What is the difference between Acupuncture and Dry Needling?

Acupuncture is one branch of a health care system (Traditional Chinese Medicine). It has been practiced for thousands of years, is based on detailed theory, and requires several years of education. Acupuncture utilizes sterile, hairlike needles inserted into specific acupuncture points and trigger points. Quality education is necessary to ensure that proper depth, angle, and point location is accurate to prevent harm. Dry Needling is a general term for a procedure involving the placement of needles into trigger points, causing the immune system to respond. It is becoming a popular therapy with physical therapists, chiropractors, and MDs for the treatment of pain. Although these practitioners also have extensive anatomical training, their training for dry needling spans a few weekends, in general.

I don’t have much pain; what else can Acupuncture treat?

Don’t wait until you’re desperate to reap the benefits of acupuncture and the relaxation in invokes. According to the World Health Organization, acupuncture can result in the following: less stress, less pain, better sex drive, better sleep, more energy. It can treat anxiety, depression, digestion, allergies and other respiratory issues, fertility, GYN, hypertension, reactions to chemo/radiation, and more. It is excellent for helping to treat any kind of pain, but a trained Acupuncturist—or East Asian Medical Practitioner (EAMP in WA state) can help you with so much more.

Emergency Numbers Alchohol and Drug Helpline................1-800-562-1240 Arson Reporting Hotline.....................1-800-552-7766 Child Protective Services (DSHS)......... 360-647-6100 Forest Fire Reports.............................1-800-562-6010 Naval Criminal Investigative Service - NCIS...................................1-360-257-3359 Oil Spill Hotline - U.S. Coast Guard Oil Spill Response.............................1-800-424-8802 Poison Info. Center.............................1-800-222-1222 Power Outages...................................1-800-321-4123 Suicide Prevention..............................1-800-273-8255 To Report Drunk Drivers........................ 360-676-2076 U.S. Border Patrol Western WA............ 360-332-8781 Washington State Patrol........................ 360-676-2076 Whatcom County Search & Rescue..... 360-676-6681

GENTLE ACUPUNCTURE When you're ready to feel your best!

Pain Management Stress/Emotional Issues Facial Rejuvenation

Gayla Woodenlegs, L.Ac., EAMP (360) 739-9272 FERNDALE

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All-Inclusive Retirement Living at its Best Free Golf with Cart • Chauffer Car Service • Full Social Calendar 3 Meals Daily in the Outward Nine Restaurant 301 West Homestead Blvd., Lynden

Provider for Most Insurances Visa/Mastercard

(360) 354-8200 www.meadowgreenslynden.com

Lynden Tribune & Ferndale Record • 2015 Whatcom County Health Care Guide

Lynden Family Medicine When is my blood pressure too high?

High blood pressure is a risk factor for strokes and heart attacks. For adults from 20 to 65 the top number (systolic) really should be below 135 mmHg. The bottom number (diastolic) should be under 85 mmHg. Can I lower my blood pressure without medicine?

Lifestyle can influence blood pressures. Limiting salt in the diet, regular modest exercise and limiting the consumption of alcohol and caffeine can be helpful and should be tried. If blood pressures are repeatedly elevated, it is important to consult your health care provider regarding this risk factor.

Keep on the

right path plan that works for you! Walk the dog, go to the gym, or work in the

pressure and cholesterol levels, reduced stress and overall better health.

We’re here to guide you on your health and wellness journey, through all ages and stages of life.

Welcoming new patients: • Lynden Family Medicine • Birch Bay Family Medicine Plus 10 other convenient locations in Whatcom and Skagit counties

Nationally recognized care, right here at home.

2015 Whatcom County Health Care Guide • Lynden Tribune & Ferndale Record

familycarenetwork.com 21

WHATCOM COUNTY Retirement Centers, Adult Family Homes, In-Home Care & Assisted Living Belfern Adult Family Home

Zella M. Chapman, LPN

Specializing in Dementia Care, Respite, Elderly.

24-hour nurse on-site. Private rooms.

5309 Bellaire Way, Bellingham, WA 98226 360-384-3981

Lynden Manor

Assisted Living and Dementia Care Wing

Lynden Manor is an assisted living residence, designed for seniors who may struggle to live completely on their own, but don’t need the high level of care provided in a nursing home.

Home is where your heart is…Make Lynden Manor your home.

905 Aaron Drive, Lynden, WA 98264 360-354-5985

Northwest Regional Council

Aging & Disability Resources 600 Lakeway Drive Bellingham, WA 98225 (360) 738-2500

Supporting the independence, dignity, and health of community members in northwestern Washington .

Your Connection to Community Resources Confidential and Free of Charge.

Aging and Disability Resources provides information and assistance with access to services to adults age 60 and over, people of any age with disabilities, and friends and family members on behalf of clients. Contact us for information and assistance on: Medicare/Medicaid, Long-Term Care, Caregiver Support, Housing, In-Home Care, Medical/Dental, Legal Options, Prescription Assistance, and more.

We offer on call 24/7 personalized case by case care. From 1-24 hours of all levels of care by a caregiver of your choice. Visit our website at www.visitingangelsWA.com or call our Bellingham office at 360.671.8388 to set up your free in-home consultation.

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Lynden Tribune & Ferndale Record • 2015 Whatcom County Health Care Guide

Bellingham Denture

ClearView Eyecare

When should dentures be replaced?

Is there an alternative to glasses, daytime contacts or Lasik surgery for nearsightedness?

Every five to 10 years. The oral structures in our mouths change continuously; when a denture becomes worn and ill-fitting, damage can occur to gums and tissues.

Appearance is affected when an old denture causes the facial structures to look very flat and worn – referred to as “over-closure.”

How will implants help me?

Dental implants can increase fit and biting force by up to 300% and help rid denture wearers of the struggle of loose, ill-fitting dentures. Dentures attached to implants improve quality of life by increase in function, improved speech, and ability to chew. Call 647.0395 for a Consultation (no charge).

YES! Corneal Reshaping, or corneal refractive therapy (CRT), can be a fantastic method of vision correction for both children and adults who have mild to moderate nearsightedness. This process uses specially designed CRT® Brand Contact Lenses to gently reshape the surface of the eye while you sleep, providing you with crisp vision during the day without the hassle of glasses or daytime contacts.

This is a safe, non-surgical alternative to LASIK, and because the CRT lenses are only worn at night, the process is totally reversible.

CRT is a great choice for active children, and those who might be genetically predisposed to nearsightedness that worsens each year. It’s also a healthy choice for adults who have stopped wearing daytime contact lenses due to discomfort, dryness or allergies. For those adults whose careers or hobbies make glasses or daytime contacts an impractical choice, CRT is a great alternative that will provide clear vision during all activities.

Come see us at ClearView Eyecare to see if you are a candidate for CRT. ClearView Eyecare, where your best view is at ClearView on Bakerview.

Would you like your Denture implants may be more than you think.

• Precision Dentures • Partial Dentures - Cast Metal, Resin & Flexible • Implant-Supported Dentures • Repairs, Relines & Soft Liners • Emergency & New Patients Always Welcome Clayton Sulek, Licensed Denturist Since 1986

Free Consultations & Evaluations www.bellinghamdentureclinic.com

360.647.0395

1610 Grover St. Ste. B9 • Lynden 2003 N. State St. Ste B • Bellingham

2015 Whatcom County Health Care Guide • Lynden Tribune & Ferndale Record

Dr. Darlene Anker, Optometric Physician Located in Bakerview Square 410 W. Bakerview Rd., Suite 107 Bellingham, WA 98226

360-392-8306

Photo L-R: Jaina, Dr. Anker, Tami and Erin.

www.clearvieweyecarewa.com 23

Hearing Health Clinic I have extreme difficulty hearing on the phone with my hearing aids. How can I hear better on the phone?

Technology of hearing aids has advanced in a way that makes them wirelessly compatible with telephones, both with landline and cell phones. For landlines, many manufacturers offer a portable phone option that wirelessly streams telephone calls directly through the hearing aids. All you have to do is hold the telephone and talk as you normally would. What’s even better is that it works as a normal phone for everyone in the household, even those with normal hearing or who do not wear hearing aids. There are also accessory devices that allow you to wirelessly use your cell phone with your hearing aids, without even having to raise the phone to your ear. They often can be used to stream many audio sources as well, such as MP3 players, computers, etc.

I have tinnitus and been told there is nothing that can be done except to live with it. It is very bothersome and makes it difficult for me to sleep. Is it true that nothing can be done?

Fortunately, there are treatment options for relief of tinnitus. However, many physicians and primary care providers are unaware that treatment is available. Advancements in research and technology have opened the door in understanding tinnitus and have provided ways to treat tinnitus successfully. We begin by evaluating and categorizing your tinnitus. This is done through careful questionnaires and one-on-one questioning from one of our audiologists. We determine the severity of your tinnitus, how the tinnitus is affecting your quality of life and what coping strategies you may be using. We will then perform a diagnostic audiogram (hearing test) to determine if any hearing loss is present, to what degree and determine if a medical referral is necessary. Once this is complete, we will spend time educating you about the causes and theories of tinnitus, as well as discussing which parts of the brain are involved in tinnitus perception and how the brain affects the way we react to tinnitus. Lastly, we will put together an individualized tinnitus management plan tailored to your needs.

St. Francis of Bellingham What is your staffing?

You can easily see our staffing. We post the nursing staffing in the front hallway, outlining the number of nurses and nursing assistants in the building for the day. We also have a large therapy department and robust support from Social Services, Recreation Therapy, Culinary Services, Housekeeping, Laundry, Maintenance and Administration.

What is the turn-over or retention rate of your staff?

We have many long-term employees across a variety of professions. Most of our Leadership Team members have been here for more than ten years, as have many of our therapists, nurses, and caregivers. We have a strong team focused on our Mission: To Enhance the Lives of Those We Serve.

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Lynden Tribune & Ferndale Record • 2015 Whatcom County Health Care Guide

Libbie L. Shell, Au.D. Director of Audiology

Jessica Maassen, Au.D. Audiologist

s t. f r a n c i s of a p a r t of

bellingham the

a v a m e r e f a m i l y of c o m p a n i e s

Over 30 Years Providing Skilled Nursing and Rehabilitation Services to Whatcom County

SKILLED NURSING • REHABILITATION • OUTPATIENT THERAPY

3121 Squalicum Parkway Bellingham, WA 98225

360-734-6760 Your Life. Our Commitment. | www.stfrancisofbellingham.com