Health Care Guide 2023

Health 2023 Care Guide

Dear Reader,

It’s more important than ever to take care of your overall health. It’s a great time to stick to (or create new) healthy habits and consult with health care professionals when you have questions or concerns.

Our 2023 Whatcom County Health Care Guide contains unique content 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, &

PeaceHealth Medical Group

Healthcare services close to home

PeaceHealth’s construction of a single-story, multispecialty medical clinic in Lynden is on track for completion in the Spring of 2024. Located at 8844 Benson Rd., at the intersection with E. Badger Rd., the 24,000 square-foot PeaceHealth Lynden Clinic will house both traditional (by advance appointment) and same-day primary care, as well as the following specialty and support services: orthopedics, cardiology, OB-GYN, physical therapy, imaging and lab. Additional services may be added in the future based on community need.

“PeaceHealth has long identified the need to enhance healthcare services to the communities in North and East Whatcom County,” says Jim Bochsler, MD, chief medical officer of PeaceHealth Medical Group, Northwest.  “We couldn’t be more pleased with the welcome reception and spirit of collaboration we’ve experienced from the City of Lynden from day #1 of this project, as we both recognize the importance of comprehensively meeting the healthcare needs of Lynden, Sumas, Everson and Nooksack area residents now and into the future.”

More than 50 caregivers will be working in the clinic each day, serving approximately 150-200 patients. PeaceHealth is contracting with Bellingham-based and employee-owned Exxel Pacific, Inc., on the facility’s construction.

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 care giver 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.

Lamphere Insurance

Proven and principled, we are dedicated to helping each person choose insurance plans that meet their needs. It’s likely that you have someone close to you who appreciates our friendly, experienced customer care. We hope that you will ask for their endorsement of our services and look forward to welcoming you to our family!

Q: I’m turning 65 soon and I received a letter from my doctor’s office. Do I have to use the insurance agency they mention, or can you help me?

A: Yes, we can help you! We represent most of the Medicare insurance plans available in our state, and offer a variety of options that are accepted by your Medicare-approved providers of choice: doctors, hospitals, clinics, and groups such as Lynden Family Medicine/Family Care Network facilities, PeaceHealth, Everett Clinic, and other medical practices in and out of our immediate service area.

Q: What are the benefits of choosing Lamphere Insurance versus signing up online or talking to someone over the phone?

A: You will receive our incomparable customer care:

• Our full-service Medicare insurance office in Lynden has helped thousands of Medicare recipients, assisting with signing up for Original Medicare, enrolling in Medicare insurance plan(s), resolving claims, and follow-up with questions & concerns.

• When you call us, you are assured of speaking with someone trustworthy and committed to helping you. We will never send you through a maze of menu choices, experience lengthy hold times, or get re-routed through multiple departments to reach someone who may help.

• You are never charged for easy access to our highly qualified staff! Your premium cost is exactly the same as online or by phone, with the added benefits of our integrity & expertise.

Mt. Baker Vision Clinic

The doctors and staff at Mt. Baker Vision Clinic are proud to provide state-of-the-art eyecare. Utilizing the latest in technology and procedures, we pride ourselves in providing you with the best experience possible. While visiting our clinics, you will be treated with courtesy and respect. Our focus is to maintain a lifetime of good vision for you, your family, and friends in a professional, comfortable, and caring environment.

Mt. Baker Vision Clinic was excited to open our doors in Ferndale last summer! Being new to the Ferndale community, we’re gladly accepting new patients. We offer vision care for the whole family. We have a particular love for specialty contact lenses for patients with astigmatism and near-vision difficulties, or children. We also offer the necessary technology to detect and manage eye diseases like glaucoma, macular degeneration, and cataracts.

Check out our fun new & exclusive MBVC frame line, designed right here in the Pacific Northwest, boasting exceptional quality and fun unique designs!

Thank you for welcoming us so warmly into the Ferndale community. We look forward to serving you for decades to come.

Dr. Hannah Joyner Dr. Brian Koning Dr. Steven Koning Dr. Kelly Larsen Dr. Jeff Ness

Chuckanut Health Foundation

Dear community,

The Chuckanut Health Foundation is celebrating 40 years of service to our mission of advancing individual and community health. Born out of the sale of the St. Luke’s Hospital in 1983, the Foundation is committed to building our vision of a community where every child gets a healthy start, and every person receives the care they need throughout their lifetime. This is the north star that guides our work across Whatcom County. In order to achieve this vision, we are working on:

• Strengthening the network of childcare and support for our youngest children and new families

• Creating a community where everyone can age well, throughout all their years of life

• Partnering with schools to build community resiliency and wellbeing for youth

• Ensuring our safety net of community-based organizations is supported

• Giving students access to opportunities to pursue careers in health care and nursing, and

• Understanding who is not getting a healthy start, who is not receiving the care they need, why that is –and what we can do about it.

We do this work through bridge-building, collaborating, elevating community voices, responding to local needs, and providing critical support to nonprofits and services. We invite you to join in the celebration by sharing your St. Luke’s story.

Go to our website or scan the QR code below with your phone. Your stories are what brings our vibrant, independent, and rooted-in-community legacy to life.

With optimism and gratitude, Your friends at the Chuckanut Health Foundation

Mt. Baker Imaging

3D mammography is a FDA-approved imaging technology designed for early breast cancer detection and is done along with a 2D mammogram.

During the 3D part of the exam, the X-ray arm sweeps in a slight arc over your breast, taking multiple breast images. A computer then produces a 3D image of your breast tissue in one millimeter sections, providing greater visibility for the radiologist to see the inside of the breast in improved detail. The additional 3D images make it possible for our radiologists to better visualize your breast tissue and to detect potential abnormalities, greatly reducing the need for follow up imaging.

What are the advantages?

• Earlier detection of small cancers that may be hidden in a routine mammogram.

• Better at determining size, shape, and location of abnormalities.

• Less biopsies and additional exams.

• Better able to detect cancer in multiple parts of the breast.

• Improved separation of dense tissues.

Who can have a 3D mammogram?

The exam is approved for all women who would be undergoing a standard mammogram in both the screening and diagnostic setting. Mt. Baker Imaging offers 3D technology for all screening mammograms.

What should I expect during a 3D mammogram?

Your 3D mammogram experience should be very similar to previous mammograms at our office. A 3D mammogram complements standard 2D mammography and is performed at the same time. No additional compression is required, and it only takes about four seconds! Our helpful technologists will guide you through the process every step of the way.

Is 3D mammography covered by insurance? How much does it cost?

3D mammography is covered by insurance companies. Patients are encouraged to call their insurance carrier with exam code 77063 for exact benefits.

Benefits of 3D MAMMOGRAPHY:

 Detects up to 40% more invasive breast cancers

 Reduces false positives or the need for additional images by 40%

 Superior to conventional 2D mammography alone in early breast cancer detection

 Our Hologic Genius 3DTM system is the first FDA approved 3D system for breast cancer screening and diagnosis.

Mt. Baker Imaging offers 3D MAMMOGRAPHY, a breakthrough in the early detection of Breast Cancer.

Our imaging center is located at 1610 Grover Street, Suite C-4, Lynden. Call to schedule your appointment today!

Plastic Surgery Bellingham

Are you ready to look and feel your best? Plastic Surgery Bellingham can help make it happen.

We offer an array of cosmetic and reconstructive procedures tailored to meet your unique needs, whether you want to enhance your body style or improve function and correct abnormalities.

Plastic Surgery Bellingham specializes in providing you with excellent care and personal attention, from initial consultation to final follow-up.

Our attached surgical suite allows us to provide you a surgical experience that is both personal and private. Our experienced surgical staff provide our patients a comfortable and safe surgical experience.

Visit us at 2500 Squalicum Parkway, Bldg. 102 in Bellingham or check us out on Facebook & Instagram.

Call Plastic Surgery Bellingham at 360-676-0972 to book your appointment.

Don’t forget to check out our freshly updated website at www.plasticsurgerybellingham.com

JAMES H. BLACKBURN II, M.D. PS

Dr. Blackburn received his medical degree from Louisiana State University School of Medicine and completed a surgical Residency in Plastic and Reconstructive surgery. Dr. Blackburn is a Board Certified Plastic Surgeon, a Fellow of the American College of Surgeons, and has a subspecialty in hand and micro surgery He introduced ultrasonic liposuction to this area in 1999 and continues to utilize new technologies in his work. He moved to Bellingham from Louisville, Kentucky after completing his fellowship at The Christine M. Klienert Institute of hand and microsurgery. He has been in surgical practice over 25 years

TIMOTHY M. WHITNEY, M.D. PS

Dr. Whitney graduated cum laude from the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine and completed a surgical Residency in Plastic and Reconstructive surgery. He is a Board Certified Plastic Surgeon and has been Certified in Hand Surgery and General Surgery He has a subspecialty in hand and micro surgery and is also a Fellow of the American College of Surgeons He was an instructor of surgery at Harvard, and has been the recipient of numerous awards and appointments throughout his career. He relocated from Boston to Bellingham in 2003. He has been in surgical practice for over 25 years.

Cascade Ambulance Service

Q: I see many ambulances throughout the county from fire departments and Medic-1. What does Cascade Ambulance Service do?

A: Cascade Ambulance Service has been operating here in Whatcom and Skagit counties for nearly 32 years of uninterrupted services! We provide a very high level of comprehensive ambulance and specialized transportation services to meet all needs of requested medical transportation. This includes both non-emergency and emergency transportation!

Q: Does Cascade Ambulance Service provide other services as well?

A: Cascade Ambulance Service provides contracted and non-contracted services to many local and national agencies on a regular basis. There are many local schools and other organizations that receive our professional medical stand-by services. These include high-school football, professional baseball, speedway events, special offroad events, on-site movie production and industrial site safety events including disaster standby services.

Q: Who owns Cascade Ambulance Service?

A: Cascade Ambulance Service has been locally owned and operated as a “family” since March of 1993. In March of 2022, the Kowsky family and Cascade joined the Metro West family of companies with other Washington state agencies including Olympic Ambulance serving the south sound and the Olympic Peninsula & Advanced Life Systems (ALS Ambulance) serving the east side of the Cascades.

Q: How many people does Cascade Ambulance Service employ?

A: Cascade Ambulance Service regularly employs 30+ crew and administrative employees locally.

Aging Well Whatcom

Aging Well Whatcom is working to make Whatcom County a place for everyone to age well.

We’re guided by a community Blueprint -- a local, shared vision for creating the culture, physical infrastructure, social supports, and services for all of us to age well. The Blueprint is less about specific programs and services for the elderly, and more about designing and fostering a community that meets the diverse needs of people of all ages.

It includes six focus areas: Cultural Shift, Information & Navigation, Housing, Intergenerational Community, Transportation, and Wellness & Healthcare.

With Aging Well Whatcom, we….

Connect people, programs, and organizations to foster collaboration that advances the well-being of older adults and Blueprint implementation.

Convene people to share information and perspectives, build shared commitment, and generate action to improve the well-being of older adults.

Learn from listening to older adults, reviewing data, and researching best practices; we share learnings to catalyze and support efforts that align with the Blueprint.

Advocate for the inclusion of older adults in community decision-making, and for programs and policies that enhance the well-being of older adults throughout Whatcom County.

Link community projects aligned with the Blueprint to funding resources, and funders to projects, in both urban and rural Whatcom County.

Celebrate and recognize the people, programs and organizations that are working to elevate the voices of older adults, improve well-being, and implement the Blueprint.

Learn more at www.AgingWellWhatcom.org!

Aspire Wellness

I have an exercise for you.  Take 5-10 minutes, sit down, and follow along. I want you to think of the very best version of yourself. You feel amazing, you have great energy, you go out of your way to be in relationships, whether with perfect strangers, your neighbor, or a friend you haven’t seen in a while. You shop with confidence, whether at the grocery store or the clothing store. You love it when someone puts their arm around you, and you don’t have a second thought about insecurities. Have you had a moment like this in your life? If the answer is no, stay will me. Can you hope for a moment like this? Name this version of yourself.

What do you wear? What do you eat? What do you do with your free time? What thoughts do you say about yourself? How do you feel about yourself and others? Does this person follow through or give up easily? What do relationships look like? What does your home look like?

Are you with me? Have you clearly envisioned this person, named them, and can see them in your mind?  Good!!

Now for the reverse, set this amazing you aside for just a moment and think of the version of you that you like the least. The version that doesn’t feel good, hides, feels tired and hopeless, feels discouraged and downcast, who compares themselves to everyone else and doesn’t believe they measure up. Do you know who I am talking about? Name this version of yourself.

What do you wear? What do you eat? What do you do with your free time? What thoughts do you say about yourself? How do you feel about yourself and others? Does this person follow through or give up easily? What do relationships look like? What does your home look like? Are you with me? Have you clearly envisioned this person, named them, and can see them in your mind?

Good or not so good?! Maybe downright depressing.

I hope you are still doing this brief exercise with me. I have a question now, for you, you in this moment.

Which one of these two versions of yourself are you listening to right now?

You have all the tools in front of you to become the very best version of yourself, but yes, change is hard. Believing you can lose weight and keep it off for good is a daily commitment and often means short-term sacrifice for a long-term lifestyle change.

Here at Aspire Wellness, we know what you are capable of. Day in and day out, we have the privilege to help people achieve their life possible. Our clients have often said, “it’s the easiest thing I have ever done” or “it’s a safe place to land” or “I haven’t felt this free since…” or “I have my life back.” All from weight loss? Well… sort of. We believe weight loss isn’t about the number on the scale but the life you gain. We work hard to put the focus on how losing and maintaining, creating a new lifestyle around your healthy weight changes your life.

We aren’t in the business of quick fixes, although many people feel better quickly. We believe you must address the food and nutrition you put in your body to address your weight. The gym alone, a pill alone or a surgery alone will not get it done. This is why we put so much emphasis on our weight maintenance protocol. This is where we help you establish your own personal Macro Code that helps you eat a healthy balanced diet that manages hunger and cravings and furthermore, we work with you on the situations that may trigger you to return to old habits, long past losing the weight.

Don’t diet. Learn a new lifestyle. Don’t lose weight just to feel good, do it for good. Our offices are in Burlington and Lynden, and we also offer a fantastic virtual program. www.aspirewellnesswa.com

United Healthcare

KCB Insurance is a husband-and-wife duo that has been specializing specifically in Medicare for over the past 8 years.

Kari is a born and raised Washingtonian with 30 years of experience in the insurance industry. Eduardo is originally from Toluca, Mexico and his primary focus is on the insurance needs of the Latin community.

We pride ourselves on taking care of you, the customer. Our service doesn’t just end when we find you the best plan option. Taking care of you is what we LOVE to do!

With so many options to choose from, it is important to have an agency that takes care of your insurance needs not only in the beginning, but as they change.

We are Kari & Eduardo Cedeno-Betancour t, licensed sales agents in Whatcom and Skagit county. When it comes to Medicare, it’s impor tant to consider all of your options. What works well for your neighbor may not be the best fit for you. We know the ins and outs of Medicare, and we’re ready to answer your questions and help you find a plan that fits your needs. Take advantage of our knowledge and experience to:

We look for ward to helping you explore your Medicare options so you can enroll in a plan with confidence

Unity Care NW is accepting Children’s Dental Patients Now!

Why is regular dental care for kids important?

According to the Washington State Department of Health more than half of all third graders and almost 38% of kindergartners have active tooth decay. Untreated tooth decay can lead to toothaches, difficulty speaking, chewing, swallowing, sleep problems, and higher rates of chronic disease as adults. Identifying problems early is critical to help kids grow up healthy.

What can you do to improve your child’s oral health?

• Take your child to the dentist for a fluoride varnish and sealants. A fluoride varnish is a concentrated form of fluoride that is painted on teeth, and can also lower tooth decay by about one-third. Sealants are protective coatings that can prevent 80 percent of cavities.

• Call Unity Care NW at (360) 676-6177 to schedule a dental examination with one of our Dental Providers.

VanDalen Enterprises

When can I apply for individual & family health insurance for 2024 if we do not qualify for a special enrollment?

Open enrollment for 2023 is November 1st, 2023-December 15th, 2023. Your coverage will then take effect January 1st, 2024.

What qualifies me for a special enrollment to apply for individual & family health insurance outside of the open enrollment period?

A. If you have had a loss of coverage for any of the following reasons and you apply within 60 days of that loss you may be eligible for an effective date outside of open enrollment:

• Loss of employer sponsored coverage

• No longer eligible for Medicaid or a public health plan

• 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

VibrantUSA

VibrantUSA is an independent insurance agency specializing in Medicare insurance. We represent more than 30 regional and national insurance companies with more than 50 plan variations. Because we are independent, our only mission is to help you find the insurance coverage that best fits your needs, preferences and budget.

VibrantUSA is considered the agency of choice for hundreds of primary care physicians. We maintain up-to-date information on the Medicare insurance plans accepted by each family care practice we support and we help patients find the solution that is right for their specific needs. Primary care physicians trust VibrantUSA because they know we are the Medicare insurance specialists, we are unbiased and we treat their patients with the respect and level of service they deserve. We also do not charge for our services.

1. What do I need to consider when researching my Medicare Insurance options?

• Doctors & Clinics – Not all clinics accept all insurance plans

• Medications – Prescription drug plans vary both in cost and which drugs they cover

• Travel – Some health plans work better than others depending on your travel needs

2. What are the benefits of working with VibrantUSA?

• We have been specializing in Medicare insurance since 2003 and we represent the majority of Medicare insurance plans available in Washington.

• Our agents are licensed, highly trained, experienced, and experts in their field.

• Our agents are independent and will offer unbiased advice to find the plan that fits your needs.

• We focus on Medicare insurance plans year-round rather than only providing our services during the Annual Election Period. We are always up to date with information and available to help with questions or concerns about your coverage.

• We have Free Medicare 101 informational seminars monthly. Visit out website at www.vibrantusa.com for a full schedule.

#FIGHT FLU

Emergency Numbers

EMERGENCY......................................................911

Alcohol 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..................................360-257-3359

Lynden Human Life

Lynden Human Life has a mission statement to “restore the rights of the unborn”. We promote and protect the most vulnerable of all citizens; the unborn.

If you need pregnancy support and are facing a crisis pregnancy please reach out to us at 1-888-399-life.

For women needing housing and resources you can contact New Way Ministries at 360-354-9930.

#everyhumanlifecounts

Local

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 360-384-6344

New Way Ministries............................................360-354-9930 www.christianhopeassociation.org

Great Expectations Maternity Home...........360-354-9930

Free pregnancy test......................www.christianhopeassociation.org

Whatcom County Pregnancy Clinic.............360-671-9057

Free pregnancy test, ultrasound..................www.whatcomclinic.com

Agape House........................................................360-733-3796 www.thelighthousemission.org

Lydia Place.............................................................360-671-7663 www.lydiaplace.org

Sponsored by

lyndenhumanlife.org • 1-888-399-LIFE Like us on Facebook

Retirement Centers, Adult Family Homes, In-home Care & Assisted Living

Northwest Regional Council

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 Con dential 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.

(360) 734-3849

We provide the services that enable you to Stay in YOUR home, with the care YOU want, when YOU want it.

For over 39 years, we have provided solutions for your in-home care needs through Skilled In-home Caregiving services, Professional Client Advocacy and Family Education. Our services include housekeeping, meal prep, transportation and med-reminders. We also provide assistance with personal care, bathing, toileting and ambulation as well as specialized dementia care, companionship and safety/supervision. Call today for your free home care needs assessment.

www.HomeAttendantCare.com

Miracle Ear Bellingham

Who owns the Miracle-Ear office?

Bellingham’s Miracle-Ear is independently owned and operated.

Monte Mahan, a Nationally Board-Certified Hearing Aid Specialist, has been the local owner and specialist for 21 years.

Monte’s son Mo is also a Hearing Aid Specialist and works in the office.

What is Miracle-Ear?

Miracle-Ear is a 75-year-old company, making it the oldest name brand in hearing aids.

Not only are they the oldest, but they are also the largest network system in the United States with over 1,500 offices nationwide!

If you own a Miracle-Ear hearing aid, free service is provided nationwide for life.

How common is hearing loss?

Approximately 48 million people have a hearing problem. The rate of hearing loss triples between the age of 50 and 60. About 1 in 3 people over 65 have hearing loss of some kind.

What happens at a hearing test?

First your outer ear canal and eardrum are examined using a video otoscope. You will see inside for yourself. Then your individual hearing requirements are measured inside of a soundbooth using an audiometer. If a hearing loss is detected, the results are used as your personal prescription to setup a pair of DEMO hearing aids. You will be able to see how your exact needs can be helped all in one visit.

How do I schedule a FREE hearing test?

Call 360-647-9162.

Are the hearing aids guaranteed?

100% Satisfaction is Guaranteed. Most products have a 3-Year manufacturer’s warranty and 3-Year loss & damage coverage. Not only that but your four month checkups, annual testing and represcribing is free for the life of the hearing aids. The aftercare is extremely important to getting your best hearing possible.

Where are you located?

Inside Bakerview Square:

410 W Bakerview Rd Ste 113, Bellingham WA