Health Care Guide 2018

2018 Whatcom County

Health Care Guide Questions and Answers Regarding Health and Well-Being From Local Professionals

VAN DALEN INSURANCE

MT. BAKER VISION CLINIC

GENTLE ACUPUNCTURE

A special publication prepared by the Lynden Tribune and Ferndale Record Wednesday, June 20, 2018.

Whatcom County

Health Care Guide Advertising Directory Alderwood Park........................................................ 22

Mt. Baker Vision........................................................ 4

Assisted Living Directory......................................... 16

Northwest Pathology.................................. Back Cover

Cascadia Eye.............................................................. 6

PeaceHealth..................................... Front Inside Cover

Cascade Prosthetics & Orthotics.............................. 12

Premier Dental......................................................... 11

Dorsche Family Dental............................................. 17

Rebound Physical Therapy....................................... 18

Eden-Health............................................................. 21

Unity Care Northwest.............................................. 22

Family Care Network............................................... 19

Van Dalen Insurance................................................ 10

Gentle Accupuncture............................................... 10

Vision Plus Lynden.................................................. 16

Hearing Northwest................................................... 20

Visiting Angels......................................................... 14

Lamphere Insurance................................................... 5

Walk-In Health Clinic.............................................. 20

Lynden Family Physical Therapy................................ 8

Whatcom Family YMCA......................................... 15

Lynden Manor........................................................... 9

White Rock Orthopaedic Surgery Centre................. 15

Mt. Baker Imaging........................... Inside Back Cover

Dear Reader, Our 2018 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 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,

2018 Whatcom County Health Care Guide • Lynden Tribune & Ferndale Record

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PeaceHealth Medical Group I have diabetes and want to get pregnant. What can I do now to minimize the risks to my baby?

Talking to your doctor before you conceive is the best first step. Planning ahead allows you to get your blood sugar levels under control before pregnancy. This is important because the birth defects associated with diabetes originate in the early weeks of pregnancy, before you may realize you are pregnant.

Controlling your blood sugar also decreases the risk of having a miscarriage.

Your doctor may recommend a blood test (hemoglobin A1C) that reflects

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

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your average blood sugar over the last couple of months. The test is also used to monitor blood-sugar control during pregnancy. Also, write down your blood sugar numbers and bring them to your visit so that your doctor can help optimize your medications before you get pregnant.

While you’re waiting to get in to see your doctor, start taking prenatal vitamins to get the folic acid you need to help prevent spina bifida. Spina bifida is a disease where the spinal cord doesn’t form right, and it is more common in babies born to mothers with diabetes.

Chad Thomas, MD, PhD Obstetrics and Gynecology 4545 Cordata Pkwy, Ste 2D Bellingham, WA 98226 360-752-5280

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 Pkwy, Ste 1F Bellingham, WA 98226 360-738-2200

Lynden Tribune & Ferndale Record • 2018 Whatcom County Health Care Guide

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 program can actually make your arthritis symptoms worse. Try these exercises to help manage your health.

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 pushups, pullups, situps, and squats use your body weight to strengthen muscles.

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, and walking.

Flexibility. Stretching your 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.

Sometimes during the summer I get dizzy and queasy when I’ve been outside. What causes that?

If you find yourself experiencing symptoms of hyperthermia, take action immediately. Move into a shady, air-conditioned, or cool place. Wrap a cool, wet cloth around your neck to help cool your blood or take a cool bath or shower. Sip fluids, but avoid alcohol and caffeine.

When your body overheats, it reacts in a variety of ways. Sweating, dizziness, fainting, and nausea are all symptoms of having an abnormally high body temperature, also known as hyperthermia.

Anyone can be affected by these illnesses, but risk goes up with age.

Older people with chronic health concerns should take care during the hot months and stay indoors in airconditioned spaces during the hottest weather.

If your symptoms do not improve, you could have a severe form of hyperthermia called heat stroke and you should seek immediate emergency medical assistance by calling 911.

2018 Whatcom County Health Care Guide • Lynden Tribune & Ferndale Record

James D. Holstine, DO Orthopedic Surgeon, PeaceHealth Medical Group- Orthopedics and Sports Medicine Director, Joint Center PeaceHealth St. Joseph Medical Center 3015 Squalicum Pkwy, Ste 200 Bellingham, WA 98225 360-733-2092

Julie Terry, MD PeaceHealth Medical Group - Same Day Care Clinic

(Now offering online scheduling!)

3015 Squalicum Pkwy, Ste 140 Bellingham, WA 98225 360-788-8420

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Mt. Baker Vision Clinic Between computers, smart phones, tablets and other digital devices my family spends a lot of time looking at screens. Will this damage our eyes?

While complaints of eye fatigue and discomfort are common among digital device users, these symptoms are not caused by the screen itself. Digital screens give off little or no harmful radiation (such as x-rays or UV rays).

Radiation levels from computer screens are below that which can cause eye damage.

Fatigue, reduced blink rate, dry eyes, bad lighting, or how you sit in front of these screens can cause eyestrain.

Symptoms of eyestrain include sore or irritated eyes and difficulty focusing. You may also have symptoms of eyestrain if you need glasses or a change in your eyeglass prescription.

Digital screens do expose your eyes to blue light. The blue light exposure you get from screens is small compared to the amount of exposure from the sun. And yet, there is concern over the long-term effects of screen exposure because of the close proximity of the screens and the length of time spent looking at them. This is of particular concern for children whose eyes absorb more blue light from digital screens than adults.

You can help prevent eyestrain by making changes to your workspace and by visiting your eye doctor. Here are a few suggestions on how to make the use of digital devices more comfortable.

1. Place your screen 20 to 26 inches away from your eyes and a little bit below eye level.

2. Take frequent breaks during screen time. A good rule-of-thumb is known as the 20-20-20 rule. Look at something 20 feet away from your screen for 20 seconds every 20 minutes.

3. Investing in computer glasses with yellow-tinted lenses that block blue light can help ease digital eye strain by increasing contrast.

4. Anti-reflective lenses reduce glare and increase contrast and also block blue light from digital devices.

MT. BAKER VISION CLINIC Dr. Wayne Musselman

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

360-733-1720 Mon. - Fri. 8am-5:30pm

Dr. Jeffrey Larson

Dr. Brian Koning

Dr. Kelly Larsen

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

360-354-7933 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

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Lynden Tribune & Ferndale Record • 2018 Whatcom County Health Care Guide

Lamphere Insurance, Financial & Estate Planning What are the benefits of choosing Lamphere Insurance versus signing up online?

Lamphere Insurance is a local insurance agency who pioneered the first full-service Medicare insurance office in Lynden over 16 years ago. We have helped thousands of Medicare recipients, assisting them in signing up for Original Medicare, choosing a supplemental Medicare plan(s), as well as helping with claims and any ongoing questions and concerns. You will never be guided through an “800”-number maze of menu choices, double-digit hold times, or re-routed through multiple departments to reach someone who will help you!

We represent the majority of Medicare insurance plans available in Washington State, and offer a variety of options that are accepted at your Medicare-approved providers of choice: doctors, hospitals, clinics, and providers such as Lynden Family Medicine/Family Care Network facilities, PeaceHealth, Associates in Family Medicine, and other medical practices in and out of our immediate service area.

We are an unbiased and trustworthy resource dedicated to helping each client find plans that meet their needs, and then providing friendly, experienced and accessible customer service for personal follow-up.

And remember: there is no extra charge for our services! Your premium cost is the same as online, with the added benefit of our EXPERIENCE. Call us at (360) 354-5333...We’re here for YOU!

Lamphere Insurance – Your Hometown Medicare Insurance Specialists

Questions about Medicare Plans?

Go see Jeff!

Over 16 years of KNOWLEDGE and EXPERIENCE in Medicare Insurance!!

Jeff Lamphere

113 Third Street, Lynden www.jefflamphere.com

• Medicare Supplements • Part D Rx Plans • Medicare 360-354-5333 Advantage Plans

2018 Whatcom County Health Care Guide • Lynden Tribune & Ferndale Record

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Jeannine in Cascadia Eyewear “Andrea”

Local, Independent, & Affordable OVER 32 YEARS OF EYE EXPERIENCE • Comprehensive ophthalmology by our most experienced medical doctors, including founder, Dr. Nannette Crowell • Primary eye care by Dr. James Santoro, with over 34 years optometry experience • Fellowship-trained cornea specialist and surgeon, Dr. Carlindo Pereira

www.CascadiaEye.com 3115 Old Fairhaven Pkwy Bellingham, WA 98225 8x award winner!

Members of VSP, Davis Vision, NBN, Kaiser, Aetna, Medicare, Med-Advantage, & more

(360) 306-8341 Hours M-F 9:00 AM — 5:00 PM

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Lynden Tribune & Ferndale Record • 2018 Whatcom County Health Care Guide

Cascadia Eye Will my eyes be dilated?

What can I expect to pay for glasses?

In order to be able to view the outermost periphery of your retina, dilation is still the best option. However, viewing your retina isn’t always necessary at every exam.

If you are over 65 or have known health issues, such as diabetes, dilation is highly recommended.

Glasses can be expensive, but because we craft most of our lenses in-house and independently design and source frames for our Cascadia Eyewear, we can offer glasses at prices much lower than most private eye care practices. Frames start around $50, and lenses vary depending on what you need.

Can I drive after dilation?

Dilation affects your ability to see close-up and it makes you highly light-sensitive. If you have good sunglasses, and recognize that it might be difficult to see your speedometer, you should do fine. But if you are concerned about the above, we advise bringing a driver.

Do you accept my insurance?

Where are you located?

We have six locations, with our newest clinic located in the Happy Valley Fairhaven neighborhood on Old Fairhaven Parkway. We have plenty of convenient parking and are open and ready to serve! We also have locations in Sedro-Woolley, Mount Vernon, Coupeville, Anacortes, and Stanwood.

For eye care providers, a patient may use their medical plan or vision plan. We need to know both plans to answer correctly. Generally we are on most local medical plans, and currently contract with vision plans NBN, VSP, and Davis. We are actively pursuing EyeMed, Spectera, March, and others.

Emergency Numbers EMERGENCY......................................................... 911

Poison Info. Center.............................1-800-222-1222

Alchohol and Drug Helpline................1-800-562-1240

Power Outages...................................1-800-321-4123

Arson Reporting Hotline.....................1-800-552-7766

Suicide Prevention..............................1-800-273-8255

Child Protective Services (DSHS)......... 360-647-6100

To Report Drunk Drivers........................ 360-676-2076

Forest Fire Reports.............................1-800-562-6010

U.S. Border Patrol Western WA............ 360-332-8781

Naval Criminal Investigative Service - NCIS...................................1-360-257-3359

Washington State Patrol........................ 360-676-2076

Oil Spill Hotline - U.S. Coast Guard Oil Spill Response.............................1-800-424-8802

2018 Whatcom County Health Care Guide • Lynden Tribune & Ferndale Record

Whatcom County Search & Rescue..... 360-384-6344

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“After tearing the meniscus in my knee, my doctor recommended “a couple PT sessions” before jumping into surgery. Working with the Lynden Family Physical Therapy team over the past few months not only kept me out of surgery, but also allowed me to heal and strengthen enough to do my best training ever.

I not only completed my goal half marathon, but I ran it as fast as I did 11 years ago! “ -Thanks LFPT

Lynden Family Physical Therapy

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

1824 Front Street Suite A, Lynden, WA 98264

Lynden Tribune & Ferndale Record • 2018 Whatcom County Health Care Guide

Lynden Manor What is Lynden Manor?

Why Lynden Manor?

Lynden Manor is an assisted-living retirement home where residents are as independent as they want to be.

Meals are provided restaurant style for the residents in a common dining room and 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 and a separate dementia care wing is also available.

Lynden Manor is independent, assisted and dementia care all in one. It is privately owned by a local partnership and highly recommended by local physicians with an excellent reputation in Whatcom County. Lynden Manor is located across from Bender Fields.

A little extra care with a lot more peace of mind.

Make your home at Lynden Manor.

Caring for your loved ones since 1997.

2018 Whatcom County Health Care Guide • Lynden Tribune & Ferndale Record

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Van Dalen Insurance

Gentle Acupuncture

When can I apply for individual & family health insur- What is the difference between Acupuncture and Dry ance for 2019 if we do not qualify for a special enroll- Needling? ment?

Acupuncture is one branch of a health care system (TradiOpen enrollment for 2019 is November 1st, 2018-Decem- tional Chinese Medicine). It has been practiced for thouber 15th, 2018. Your coverage will then take effect January sands of years, is based on detailed theory, and requires sev1st, 2019. eral years of education. Acupuncture utilizes sterile, hair-like needles inserted into specific acupuncture points and trigger points. Quality education is necessary to ensure that proper depth, angle, and point location are 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?

What qualifies me for a special enrollment to apply for Don’t wait until you’re desperate to reap the benefits of acuindividual & family health insurance outside of the open puncture and the relaxation it invokes. According to the enrollment period?

World Health Organization, acupuncture can result in the A. If you have had a loss of coverage for any of the following following: less stress, less pain, better sex drive, better sleep, reasons and you apply within 60 days of that loss you may more energy. It can treat anxiety, depression, digestion, allerbe eligible for an effective date outside of open enrollment: gies and other respiratory issues, fertility, GYN, hypertension, reactions to chemo/radiation, and more. It is excellent • Loss of employer sponsored coverage for helping to treat any kind of pain, but a trained Acupuncturist—or East Asian Medical Practitioner (EAMP in WA • No longer eligible for Medicaid or a public health plan state) can help you with so much more.

• Permanent change of residence in an area that your existing plan does not offer coverage • Birth or adoption of a child • Loss of coverage on a group plan due to age • Marriage or dissolution of marriage

Are you in need of health insurance?

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

We can help with: • Individual & Family direct purchase plans • Small group employer plans • Travel Medical Insurance • 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

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When you're ready to feel your best!

Pain Management Stress/Emotional Issues Facial Rejuvenation Fertility

• Washington Healthplanfinder Coverage for individuals & families

Shane Van Dalen, Agent

GENTLE ACUPUNCTURE

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

Provider for Most Insurances Visa/Mastercard

Lynden Tribune & Ferndale Record • 2018 Whatcom County Health Care Guide

Premier Dental Center Making beautiful smiles in the Ferndale community for 25 years At Premier Dental Center in Ferndale, your smile and oral health are our top priority. We sincerely believe that your mouth, teeth, periodontal bone and jaw-joint health are a reflection of your body’s health and wellness.

Our goal is to provide excellent dental care and to work as a team to meet our patients’ priority needs in a positive way. We strive to give you a healthy and beautiful smile for life and hope it will impact your confidence and quality of life, as you reach optimal health.

What are your areas of expertise?

Dr. Linh Vu, DDS, has over 25 years of experience in a wide range of dental services including: Family Dentistry, Invisalign Treatment & Orthodontics, Dentures, Bridges, Cosmetic Dentistry, Veneers, Periodontics, and IV Sedation Dentistry for fearful patients. We’re committed to providing you with the highest level of care to ensure that you’re all smiles when you leave our clinic.

Please contact us today if you have any questions or to make an appointment. Our friendly and courteous staff will answer any questions you might have regarding scheduling, payment options, directions, and more. We’d love to have you join our family of satisfied patients. We’ll see you soon!

“

At Premier Dental Center, our focus is to maintain and achieve excellent care and results for our patients. It is my philosophy that a patient's dental and physical health should be maintained at all times.

- Dr. Linh Vu

”

(360) 380-4553 2086 Main Street Ferndale, WA dentistferndale.com

• General Checkups and Cleanings • Invisalign® • Teeth Whitening • Emergency and After Hours Care Available • Sedation Dentistry Available

Making beautif�l smiles in the Fer�dale Communit� for 25 years.

2018 Whatcom County Health Care Guide • Lynden Tribune & Ferndale Record

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Lynden Tribune & Ferndale Record • 2018 Whatcom County Health Care Guide

Cascade Prosthetics & Orthotics What types of devices do you provide?

We offer a full range of custom-built and off-theshelf devices—from shoe inserts to prosthetic leg replacements—for all age groups, from infants to seniors.

Examples of products we routinely fit include:

• Dynamic Ankle Foot Orthoses (DAFO®)

• Upper and lower limb prostheses

• Custom and prefabricated foot orthotics

• Braces for the neck, back, wrist, hand, and knee

• Fracture braces

• Protective helmets

• Bioness L300 and Walkaide systems for foot drop

Will my treatment be covered by insurance?

The devices we make are considered “durable medical equipment.” Both Medicare and private health insurance plans often provide reimbursements for this type of equipment. We accept Medicare, Medicaid, and most of the major health insurance plans. Our friendly office staff will be happy to work with you and your insurance company to help you understand how your plan works as it relates to durable medical equipment needs.

2018 Whatcom County Health Care Guide • Lynden Tribune & Ferndale Record

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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 li y b s s e c re o u r su c

v 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 888-264-3528 Toll Free 866-522-6435 2532 Wetmore (425) 348-9914 Toll Free 866-348-9914

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

Visit our website at www.VisitingAngelsWA.com 14

Lynden Tribune & Ferndale Record • 2018 Whatcom County Health Care Guide

Whatcom Family YMCA Why Diabetes Prevention Makes Good Sense

Here’s a not-so-fun fact: 86 million adults in the United States have prediabetes and most of them will develop type 2 diabetes, an incurable disease, within 10 years if they don’t take steps to prevent it.

What do we know about having type 2 diabetes? We know health care costs go up. According to one of the nation’s largest insurance companies, it costs

REDUCE YOUR RISK YMCA Diabetes Prevention Program For those diagnosed with prediabetes.

For more info, contact Tara, 360-733-8630 WHATCOM FAMILY YMCA

www.whatcomymca.org

2018 Whatcom County Health Care Guide • Lynden Tribune & Ferndale Record

roughly $3700 a year to treat a person with prediabetes. In contrast, treating someone with advanced stages of diabetes tops $20,000 annually. We also know that conditions such as new cases of blindness, non-traumatic lower limb amputations and kidney failure are more likely for people with diabetes. People with diabetes also have a shorter life expectancy and are about twice as likely to die on any given day than a person of similar age without diabetes.

Sobering news, right? But all is not lost. The CDC has initiated the National Diabetes Prevention Program (DPP) which can reduce the number of new cases of type 2 diabetes by 58% and, if you’re over the age of 60, by 71%. This year-long lifestyle intervention was significantly more effective than metformin.

The two main goals of DPP are to reduce body weight by 7% and increase physical activity to 150 minutes per week. DPP groups work with a trained facilitator to address topics such as ways to eat less fat, exploring increased activity, problem solving, negative thoughts and more.

The take-home message here is that if you have been diagnosed with pre-diabetes and are interested in making lasting lifestyle changes to reduce your risk of developing type 2 diabetes, then DPP may give you just the support you need to incorporate healthier eating and more activity in your daily life.

Currently DPP is offered at the Whatcom Family YMCA, Washington State University Extension Program, and on the Lummi Reservation. Whether it’s you who is at risk, or someone you love, remember there are things you can do to not become the 1 out of 3 Americans with type 2 diabetes. *Date from YMCA of the USA, ‘Investing in Prevention of Chronic Disease 2014.”

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OF

2015, 2016 & 2017!

FULL SERVICE

Optical & Medical Eye Exams and Refractions Given 5 Days a week

By Dr. John McGiffin, Optometric Physician

For over 4 years, Dr. John McGiffin has been welcoming patients of all ages into the Vision Plus family. He lives in Ferndale with his beautiful wife and four children.

Stop by to say hello today…. in English or Spanish! We’d love to see you!

We will bill your insurance OR Private Pay Eye Exam is $79

We treat eye injuries, eye infections, pre and post operative cataract and Lasik care.

Regular Hours 10-6 & Every Other Saturday

1824 Front St. Suite B • 360-933-1815 Dr. McGiffin speaks Spanish!

From left to right: Robby, Nathan, Rebecca, Mrs. Jenette McGiffin, Dr. John McGiffin, and Melissa

Retirement Centers, Adult Family Homes, In-home Care & Assisted Living We provide the services that enable you to Stay in YOUR home, with the care YOU want, when YOU want it.

For 35 years, we have provided solutions for your in-home care needs through Skilled Caregiving and Nursing services, Professional Client Advocacy and Family Education. Our services include housekeeping, meal prep, transportation and dementia care. We also provide assistance with personal care, bathing, toileting and ambulation as well as RN visits, medication management or support during Care Transitions. Call us at 360-734-3849 for a free home care needs assessment.

www.HomeAttendantCare.com

Meadow Greens

Independent and Assisted Living Apartments. www.meadowgreenslynden.com 301 W. Homestead Blvd., Lynden, WA 98264 360-354-8200

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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.

Lynden Tribune & Ferndale Record • 2018 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 does it 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.

2018 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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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 weightbearing, 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 landbased exercise, making for a quicker progression and recovery.

“Experts in Injury Rehabilitation & Prevention.”

360-354-5245

360-752-1575 www.reboundot.com

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Lynden Tribune & Ferndale Record • 2018 Whatcom County Health Care Guide

Family Care Network Is Family Care Network accepting new patients?

Yes! We have several physicians, ARNPs and PA-Cs in Whatcom County who are open to new patients. Please visit our website at familycarenetwork.com and click on “Find a Doctor” where you can sort by location and insurance.

Or, feel free to call our clinics directly.

As a locally owned and independently operated healthcare network, we’re free to focus on what matters most—the health and well-being of you and your family. We provide comprehensive medical care, including OB care, to patients of all ages. We also have clinic-based lab services and an urgent care center in Bellingham that is open evenings and weekends – just for Family Care Network patients!

Looking for a doctor?

We take care of individuals and families through all ages and stages of life.

OB Care • Children • Adults • Seniors Birch Bay Family Medicine (360) 371-5855

Ferndale Family Medical Center (360) 384-1511

Lynden Family Medicine (360) 354-1333

Anacortes | Bellingham | Birch Bay | Ferndale | Lynden | Mount Vernon

2018 Whatcom County Health Care Guide • Lynden Tribune & Ferndale Record

familycarenetwork.com 19

Hearing Northwest

Walk-In Health Clinic Inc.

The folks at Hearing Northwest are focused on helping peoDo I need an appointment? ple hear better. The knowledgeable staff provides services that are centered on hearing health and hearing loss treatment.

No. Just walk in 7 days a week between 8:30am and 5:00pm.

If you have a concern about current or potential communica- We accept most insurance and are preferred by many. We also accept private pay at a discount at time of service. tion difficulties, ask yourself: · Do you find it difficult to follow conversations in a noisy restaurant or crowded room? · Do you turn up the volume on the television so loud that is disturbs those around you? · Have you had significant noise exposure at work, recreation, or in the military? · Do you experience unwanted ringing in your ear?

I have a workplace injury or illness. Can I be seen at the Walk-In Health Clinic?

Definitely! We treat patients with Labor and Industries and other industrial insurance in the State of Washington. We’ve developed excellent working relationships with many businesses in Whatcom County. We’ll get your employees the Answering “yes” to just one of these may indicate the pres- care they need 7 days a week and back to work as quickly as ence of a hearing loss. Everybody should keep in mind the possible. potential consequences to letting hearing loss go untreated; these include depression, social isolation, cognitive decline, being misjudged or mischaracterized, making a mistake at work, a greater chance of falling, increased anxiety, and an overall lower quality of life.

Come by our office during walk-in hours, Mondays 9 a.m. 12 noon to schedule your free hearing test today or give us a call @ 360-738-3958 anytime to make your appointment at either location.

“We Help People Hear Better” 2220 Cornwall Ave., Bellingham Bunk’s Medical Center

One Block North of Assumption Church

CALL FOR YOUR FREE HEARING TEST!

Lynden • 1610 Grover St. A-2 Bellingham • 1470 Ellis St.

www.hearingnorthwest.com Financing Avail. OAC

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360-312-4833

Providing quality, affordable healthcare services for over 25 years.

(360)

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

Lynden Tribune & Ferndale Record • 2018 Whatcom County Health Care Guide

Eden-Health

cal Therapy, Occupational Therapy, Medical Social Work, Speech Language Pathology, and Home Health Aide.

When would I need Home Health? You may benefit from home health following an inpatient hospitalization, rehabilitation, or a stay at a skilled nursing facility. Home health also benefits those Who pays? Private pay and Long Term Care Insurance. with overall decline in functioning – in order to help them to regain independence through therapy or learning new skills to comHow do I get started? Call 360-734-5410 for your FREE assesspensate for their deficit. ment!

Where do I receive services? Eden Home Health provides serWhat services are provided? Non-Medical services such as comvices in the comfort of your own home in Whatcom, Skagit, Island panionship, errands, meal planning and prep, light housekeeping, and Snohomish County. medication reminders, bathing, grooming and dressing, and overnight care services. Home care can also include nurse delegation tasks such as oral administration of medications and insulin.

Home Care

When would I need home care? Home care is beneficial should you need additional non-medical support to maintain your independence and daily routine.

Where will I receive services? Your home! Eden Home Care provides caregivers in your home in Whatcom, Skagit, Island and Snohomish counties.

Home Health Who pays? Medicare and Commercial Insurance What services are provided? We provide Skilled Nursing, Physi-

Home Health:

• 24/7 On-Call Nurse • Physical Therapy • Occupational Therapy • Speech Therapy • Mecial Social Services • Home Health Aide • Specialty Programs

Home Care:

• Caring Companionship • Day-to-Day Errands • Meal Planning and Prep • Light Housekeeping • Medication Reminders • Bathing, Grooming, Dressing • Overnight Care Services

Bringing Connected Care Home www.eden-health.com • (360) 734-5410

2018 Whatcom County Health Care Guide • Lynden Tribune & Ferndale Record

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Unity Care NW Why is Unity Care NW building a new health center in Ferndale?

Too many north Whatcom County residents lack access to affordable medical, dental, behavioral health, and pharmacy services. The new health center will provide all of these services to 9,500 north Whatcom County residents, all in one location. The facility will significantly expand dental and behavioral health service capacity, improving health for the community.

How can you help?

Learn more about the project at unitycarenw.org/ north-whatcom-health-center. To support the campaign with a donation, contact us at development@ucnw.org or (360) 788-2628. Or become a patient when we open in 2019!

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Providing 24-Hour Nursing, Rehab, Respite and Hospice Care

For More Information: Call Darlene Phone: (360) 733-2322 Fax: (360) 733-0229 2726 Alderwood Ave | Bellingham, WA

Lynden Tribune & Ferndale Record • 2018 Whatcom County Health Care Guide

Northwest Pathology What is pathology?

Pathology is a branch of medicine focused on diagnostic testing, especially microscopic diagnosis. Pathologists are involved in diagnosing many types of disease, including infectious disease, cancer, inflammatory diseases, and many others.

What happens when a pathologist receives a biopsy sample?

Most tissue samples are ‘fixed’ in a formaldehyde solution, then processed through a series of chemical solutions that ends in the tissue being embedded in paraffin (wax), which allows it to be cut into very thin slices that are placed on microscope slides. The tissue is then stained with various dyes that allow the pathologist to visualize detailed cellular and tissue structure under the microscope.

How is Northwest Pathology involved with my healthcare?

The technical staff and pathologists at Northwest Pathology prepare and evaluate all biopsy and surgical specimens from 11 hospitals and doctor offices in our region.

Northwest Pathology also evaluates Pap smears and associated molecular diagnostic tests to screen for cervical cancer and infectious diseases.

Our pathologists are Medical Directors for the laboratories at our regional hospitals.

and local conferences, keep up with current medical literature, and work as a group to assure that our daily practice keeps up with technological advancements.

We also have frequent conferences with local clinicians, providing forums for communication that enhances patient care.

I was recently diagnosed with breast cancer – how are you involved in my diagnoses and treatment?

Northwest Pathology will process the biopsy and any subsequent surgical specimens, creating detailed diagnostic reports that include predictive studies that can guide therapy such as chemotherapy and hormone treatments. At Northwest Pathology, our doctors attend breast conferences and tumor boards to clearly explain diagnostic findings and with local cancer doctors and surgeons. We keep your original tissue slides on file for 20 years, and the tissue can be used for additional future studies that may be needed later in your care. We are committed to providing the most accurate and up-todate diagnostic services for our community.

How long have you been in practice and how do you keep up with technology/education?

Northwest Pathology has been in practice for over 25 years. We have nine pathologists with subspecialty certification in skin pathology, GI pathology, neuropathology, and hematopathology.

Our Left to Right: John Hoyt, MD, Medical Director, Greg Wolgamot, MD, pathologists attend national PhD, Kelly Lloyd, MD, Ryan Fortna, MD, PhD

2018 Whatcom County Health Care Guide • Lynden Tribune & Ferndale Record

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MT BAKER IMAGING What types of imaging services does Mt. Baker Imaging offer?

Mt. Baker Imaging is the only full-service, advanced medical imaging center in Whatcom County. We offer X-ray services in clinics throughout the county and offer MRI, CT, US, 3D Mammography, Bone Densitometry, Body Composition, Fluoroscopy and Interventional Radiology at our locations in Bellingham. Please visit our website for details about where specific services are located.

What sets us apart from other imaging companies?

MBI is the only locally owned and operated imaging company in our region. We are not only committed to the most advanced equipment and training, we are also dedicated to treating the people of our community. Just like you, we live and raise our families here, and are devoted to the positive outcomes of our friends and neighbors. We also take pride in giving back to our community through philanthropy and volunteerism.

Where can I get more information about MBI and keep up-to-date with its latest services?

Visit our website at www.mtbakerimaging.com and like our Facebook page. We are continually making updates to communicate new services (like 3D Mammography and Body Composition DEXA) and to provide informative links and relevant healthcare news. You can also give us a call at 360-733-0430 and we can answer any questions you might have.

Mt. Baker Imaging’s group of sub-specialized radiologists has been serving Whatcom County’s physicians and patients for more than 50 years. Mt. Baker Imaging is dedicated to serving our community by providing timely, accurate, and high quality imaging services.

We are committed to approaching every interaction with compassion, respect, and integrity.

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Lynden Tribune & Ferndale Record • 2018 Whatcom County Health Care Guide

About Northwest Pathology

Our Providers

We are a full-service anatomic pathology laboratory, accredited by the College of American Pathologists, based in Bellingham and staffed by skilled and experienced professionals.

John Hoyt, MD

We are committed to excellence in service to Whatcom County residents, heath care providers and institutions.

We are independently owned and have a tradition of responsive client services, IT Support, courier services and fulfilling the needs of our clients with remarkable speed.

Our board-certified pathology staff is enriched in sub-specialty expertise, including dermatopathology, gastrointestinal pathology, hematopathology, neuropathology, molecular pathology and microbiology.

We are available for pathology services, professional consultations and continuing education in all areas of anatomic and clinical pathology.

We are large enough to offer a full array of anatomic pathology series and a wide range of ancillary testing, yet small enough to be responsive and focused on our clinic relationships.

We are available 24/7 to assist physicians and local laboratories in providing excellent medical care.

Medical Director Anatomic & Clinical PathologyNeuropathology

Debra Callahan, MD Clinical Pathology

Scott Chatterley, MD

Anatomic & Clinical Pathology

Kiran Chaturvedi, MD

Anatomic & Clinical Pathology Hematopathology

Ryan Fortna, MD, PhD

Anatomic & Molecular Pathology Dermatopathology

Michael Kelly, MD, PhD

Clinical Pathology Microbiology

Kelly Lloyd, MD

Anatomic & Clinical Pathology GI Pathology

Alfonso Masangkay, MD Anatomic & Clinical Pathology GU Pathology

Valerie McWhorter, MD Anatomic & Clinical Pathology GI Pathology

Greg Wolgamot, MD, PhD Anatomic & Clinical Pathology Dermatopathology

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