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Northwest Gastroenterology & Endoscopy

Providing comprehensive digestive healthcare. Visit our state-of-the-art facility in Barkley Village at 3111 Woburn Street.

What We Do

At Northwest Gastroenterology and Endoscopy, we provide cutting edge, expert care in screening, prevention and management of diseases of the digestive tract. Some of the most common illnesses we treat are irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), gastroesophageal re ux disease (GERD), Barrett’s esophagus, celiac disease, Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis and chronic liver disease As a practice, we consistently buck the trend of the “one-size- ts-all” approach to medicine We are cognizant of a patient’s desire for individualized care and are committed to providing high quality services within this framework.

The Vital Role of Colonoscopy in Colorectal Cancer Screening

When detected early, colorectal cancer is one of the most preventable and treatable cancers. The cornerstone of early detection is colonoscopy

• What is a colonoscopy?

A minimally invasive procedure in which a gastroenterologist uses a exible tube with a tiny camera to examine the entire colon This comprehensive examination allows for the detection and removal of polyps, which are precancerous growths that can lead to colorectal cancer

• When should you get a colonoscopy? Colorectal cancer screening guidelines recommend that individuals at average risk should begin colonoscopy screenings at the age of 45 Earlier screening is suggested if there are risk factors Your gastroenterologist will help determine the appropriate timing for your screenings based on your personal and family history

• What is the screening process like?

What are the beneﬁts of a colonoscopy? The procedure typically takes approximately 30 minutes and is performed on an outpatient basis You will be sedated to ensure your comfort throughout the process.

• A colonoscopy is not only a powerful screening tool but also a preventive one. If polyps are discovered during the procedure, they can be removed on the spot, signi cantly reducing the risk of colorectal cancer.

• Should I consider a stool test instead? Generally, we do not recommend them, as we do not feel they are an adequate means of PREVENTING colon cancer. With colon cancer being the #2 most common cancer for non-smokers, behind breast and prostate cancer, we would de nitely prefer to head off trouble early by removing pre-cancerous polyps, well before they become bigger problems that bleed or shed concerning DNA. Newer stool-based colorectal cancer screening methods (MT-sDNA testing) are covered by most insurance plans and are available for select average risk patients. They are signi cantly less effective at detecting medium to large colon polyps (advanced adenomas and those with high grade dysplasia, which means it is nearly colon cancer), less cost effective, and have a high false positive rate which can lead to unwarranted anxiety as patients await further evaluation Despite these advancements in stool and blood screening modalities, Colonoscopy remains the gold standard (best test) for colon cancer detection and prevention.

Why Choose Us?

Northwest Gastroenterology was founded in 1979 and is the largest gastroenterology group in Whatcom County, with 10 physicians and 3 advanced practitioners (ARNP, PA-C). We offer in-person clinic visits, telehealth appointments, a physician managed infusion suite and an ef cient private endoscopy center, all located at our new state-of-the-art facility in Barkley Village We also maintain privileges at PeaceHealth St Joseph Medical Center To ensure clinical excellence, we have incorporated arti cial intelligence algorithms for polyp detection, and we participate in the GIQuiC national registry - a program dedicated to continuous improvement in GI healthcare performance. Our staff of over 100 people are fully dedicated to ensuring your digestive health.

PHYSICIANS

Jash Bansal, MD, MPH

Alison Freeman, MD, MPH

Donald Gullickson, MD

Kelly McCullough, MD

Gregory Munson, MD, MPH

Kristina Ross, MD

Benjamin Siemanowski, MD

Dylan Stanfield, MD

Rinad Tabbalat, MD

Todd Witte, MD

ADVANCED PRACTITIONERS

Megan Britson, PA-C

Kristin Page, ARNP

Elizabeth Waltman, PA-C

Northwest Gastroenterology & Endoscopy

New address: 3111 Woburn St., Bellingham 360.734.1420, nwgastroendo.com

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.

The Lynden Tribune & Ferndale Record reached out to local health care providers to obtain unique content for our 2025 Whatcom County Health Care Guide.

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,

Family Care Network

What is family medicine?

Often referred to as “primary care”, family medicine is the branch of medicine that provides general healthcare to individuals and families through all ages and stages of life.

Family medicine providers are trained in a broad spectrum of specialty knowledge, so they can treat most health concerns that a patient might have, right in the clinic. This includes illness or injury, ongoing or chronic conditions, pregnancy and newborn care, and many common procedures. For added convenience, Family Care Network also offers their own onsite lab services, integrated behavioral health options, and local clinic locations for sports medicine and urgent care.

Primary care providers also value maintaining good health, which means there is a special emphasis on preventive measures to help you stay well, such as health screenings, immunizations and education. As your partner in health, a family medicine provider will coordinate with other specialists whenever needed and remain an active partner in your care.

When you choose family medicine for your healthcare, you will benefit from building a trusted, ongoing relationship with your care team over time. Our goal is to treat the whole person, promote well-being, and empower patients to make informed healthcare decisions as they live their best, healthy life.

PeaceHealth Medical Group

Construction at PeaceHealth St. Joseph Medical Center will impact how you get around the hospital campus.

Whether you’re a visitor or a patient, you’ll want to give yourself plenty of extra time to get to your destinations on or near the PeaceHealth St. Joseph Medical Center campus this summer.

Construction of the Peter Paulsen Pavilion will expand services for women’s and children’s care and the emergency department, in order to serve the growing Whatcom County community. The six-story addition will be integrated into the west side of the hospital and is expected to be complete sometime in 2028.

For the duration of the project, construction will also route patients and visitors through other areas of campus.

PeaceHealth patients and visitors can park in PeaceHealth clinic lots and in the north garage and central garage as noted in the campus map on peacehealth.org.

East Tower becomes main hospital entrance on June 17

The current westside hospital entrance and roundabout will close on June 17. The main hospital entrance will relocate to the East Tower on the northeast side of the PeaceHealth St. Joseph campus. The East Tower entrance is diagonal from the Clocktower Building and next to the PeaceHealth St. Joseph Childbirth Center.

Signage, flaggers, greeters and security officers will direct visitors and patients during construction. The nearest parking will be in either the North Garage or the Central Garage, both a short walk to the East Tower entrance. From Ellis Street, visitors will want to turn right/east onto Squalicum Parkway and take the first left into the main campus. From the north, visitors will want to turn onto Squalicum Parkway from Birchwood Avenue, take the first left into the campus and turn left again to navigate to the North Garage.

Visitors will still need to check in with the Security desk at the East Tower entrance, while patients can go directly to the reception desk.

PeaceHealth Medical Group

Squalicum Parkway Improvements

Related construction along Squalicum Parkway began on Monday, June 2, eliminating on-street parking between Ellis Street and Birchwood Avenue. From June through October, crews from RAM Construction will build sidewalks, crosswalk connections, bike lanes, lighting and stormwater detention systems.

One lane of traffic will remain open at all times. Flaggers will be present daily to provide traffic control. Daily work is scheduled from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.

PeaceHealth has created a dedicated website for construction updates: peacehealthimpact.org. Readers can submit questions and also sign up to receive updates.

We appreciate the community’s patience and understanding as we navigate through the construction of this major project.

For over 130 years, PeaceHealth St. Joseph Medical Center has been a source of hope and healing in Whatcom County. We look forward to continuing to serve our growing community for many decades to come.

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 2025 if we do not qualify for a special enrollment?

For individual and family health insurance, the open enrollment for 2026 is November 1st 2025 thru December 15th 2025. Your coverage will take effect January 1st 2026. What qualifies me for a special enrollment period (SEP) to apply for individual & family health insurance for 2025 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 • Eligible for Medicare

• Loss of coverage on a group plan due to age

• Marriage or dissolution of marriage

Capstone Physical Therapy

Changing Lives Through Care, Culture, and Community: The Capstone PT Difference

When injury, pain, or limitation strikes, it doesn’t just affect the body—it affects every part of life. Whether you’re recovering from surgery, healing after a car accident, managing a chronic condition, or simply striving to move better and feel stronger, the path to wellness starts with compassionate, expert care. For nearly 13 years, Capstone Physical Therapy has walked that path with thousands in our community—one patient at a time.

Whole-Person Healing With Proven Results

At Capstone PT, we believe in the power of evidence-based care to restore mobility, improve quality of life, and bring confidence back into daily movement. Our clinic provides a full spectrum of rehabilitation services tailored to individual needs, including:

• Physical Therapy: From orthopedic care to post-operative rehabilitation, our therapists use modern, research-backed techniques to maximize recovery.

• Occupational Therapy: Helping patients regain independence in daily activities, whether it’s after injury, illness, or life transitions.

• Certified Hand Therapy: Expert treatment for hand, wrist, and upper extremity injuries, including post-surgical care, repetitive strain conditions, and trauma recovery.

• Pelvic Health: A specialized service supporting under-discussed concerns like incontinence, pain, and postpartum issues.

• Sports Injury Treatment: Whether you’re a high-performance athlete or a weekend warrior, our team helps you return to peak condition safely and efficiently.

• Work Rehabilitation: Supporting employees in returning to work through L&I-approved rehabilitation programs focused on functional, job-specific recovery and injury prevention.

• Auto Accident Recovery: Targeted care to address whiplash, back pain, and other common consequences of motor vehicle accidents.

• Massage Therapy: Promoting recovery and reducing pain through targeted therapeutic massage techniques.

Each of these services is anchored by a 1-on-1 care model that ensures every patient receives individualized attention from our licensed therapists throughout their treatment journey.

Your Partner in Recovery, for Every Walk of Life

At Capstone PT, we welcome everyone: athletes pushing their limits, seniors seeking independence, workers recovering from injury, new mothers navigating postpartum healing, and anyone who’s simply tired of being sidelined by pain. We meet you where you are, guide you with experience, and walk with you toward a better tomorrow.

More than just a clinic, Capstone is a community partner. We’ve spent the last 13 years growing with and within the neighborhoods we serve—not as part of a corporate chain, but as a locally owned team committed to personal connection and long-term wellness. From your first visit, you’ll notice the difference: familiar faces, genuine encouragement, and a deep investment in your well-being.

We don’t just treat bodies—we uplift lives. Our entire team, from the front desk to the therapy floor, is united by a shared mission: to change lives through care, culture, and community.

Let’s Move Forward—Together

Recovery is a journey. At Capstone Physical Therapy, you’re never walking it alone. Let’s work together to change the way you move, feel, and live. Visit us at www.capstonept.com to learn more or schedule an appointment.

8 locations to serve you

Specializing in everything from Orthopedics and Post-Surgical to Work Rehab and Sports Injuries, our goal is to get you back to life and the activities you enjoy most.

Voted Best of the Northwest 8 years running!

Are Carbonated Drinks Bad For Your Teeth?

Submitted by Dr. Kyle Dosch

We all know that sugar-sweetened beverages are bad for our teeth, but did you know that carbonated beverages can also be harmful to your smile?

It’s true and with more and more people turning to popular drinks like sparkling water to cut down on their sugar intake, it is necessary to be cautious about what types of carbonated drinks you are consuming.

The important thing to know is that carbonated drinks are acidic, which can lead to tooth enamel damage and mouth diseases like gingivitis. The acidity level of a drink is determined by its pH level. Tap or bottled water generally has a pH level of 7, whereas sparkling water is in the pH range of 4.18-7. Drinks that are below pH 5.5 can damage enamel.

Excess consumption of carbonated drinks and acidic foods leads to accumulation of acid-producing harmful bacteria, which are the main causes for cavities and infections. Drinking both sugary and carbonated drinks in moderation can reduce some of their impacts, including damage to enamel. Once enamel is deteriorated, it doesn’t grow back, removing a major line of defense for your teeth.

The best beverages to consume include water, milk, and brewed and unsweetened green or black tea. And while not all carbonated drinks have sugar and not all sugar-sweetened drinks are carbonated, both can cause harm and should be avoided as much as possible.

Some beverages to avoid include soda pop, sweet tea, sweetened coffee drinks, chocolate milk, energy drinks and sports drinks. Never drinking any of these beverages is unlikely, but reducing your intake is a key step in your health journey.

There are also a few steps you can take to mitigate the damage sugar-sweetened and/or carbonated beverages cause including:

• Use in moderation – Just as with sugar-sweetened beverages, think of carbonated beverages as a treat you partake in occasionally, rather than something you drink often. The less you drink, the less it damages your teeth.

• Use a straw – This may reduce contact between the acidic and sugar-filled drinks with your teeth.

• Drink water afterward – Water is a great way to rinse out your mouth and wash away acids and sugars.

• Don’t brush your teeth right away – While it might seem like the best way to help your mouth is to brush immediately, your teeth and its enamel are actually in a weakened state at this time and a toothbrush could damage them further.

“In the end, water is your best bet for keeping a healthy smile, especially fluoridated tap water,” Dr. Dosch said. “Carbonated drinks can be very tempting, but anything that puts your oral health into jeopardy should be avoided – which will save you money later if dental treatment becomes necessary, and will have your smile looking the best it can.”

And when it comes to soda, surprisingly, studies have also shown that diet sodas and low-sugar sodas are no better for oral health than regular sodas. Ultimately, the more sugar-sweetened beverages you drink, the more unhealthy attacks on your teeth, which in turn leads to a degradation of your oral health.

Kyle Dosch, DDS, is the Delta Dental of Washington’s dental director and a member dentist.

The Baldwin Group (formerly Guided Solutions)

The Baldwin Group is an independent insurance agency dedicated to helping you navigate Medicare and individual health insurance. Because we’re independent, our sole focus is on finding the coverage that truly fits your unique needs, preferences, and budget. We partner with many different insurance carriers, offering a wide variety of Medicare Advantage, Medicare Supplement/Medigap, and Prescription Drug Plans to ensure you have the best options available. Whether you know us as VibrantUSA, Guided Solutions, or The Baldwin Group, you can expect the same fantastic service from our local licensed agents.

Things to consider when researching Medicare Insurance options.

• Doctors & Clinics – Does your Primary Care Doctor and Specialists accept your plan?

• Medications – Does your plan cover your prescriptions?

• Added benefits – Does your plan offer dental, vision, hearing, gym memberships, etc.?

What are the benefits of working with The Baldwin Group?

• 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 help find the plan that fits your needs.

Peak Hydration, Your Local Destination for Whole-Body Wellness

In today’s fast-paced world, prioritizing your health and well-being is essential. Whether you’re a busy professional, parent, athlete, or simply looking to feel your best, Peak Hydration IV Therapy & Wellness Lounge is here to support your journey. As a locally owned and operated business—not a franchise—we’re proud to serve our community with personalized care and real results. At Peak Hydration, we know wellness isn’t one-size-fits-all. That’s why we offer a wide range of services designed to support your body, mind, and overall vitality—all delivered with expert care in a welcoming environment.

IV Hydration & Nutrient Therapy: Our signature IV drips deliver essential vitamins, minerals, and fluids directly into your bloodstream for fast, effective relief and rejuvenation. Whether you’re boosting immunity, recovering from illness or surgery, athletic performance, have chronic inflammation, or refreshing your glow, we can help! #wehavebagforthat

Vitamin Injections: Short on time? Our quick, effective vitamin injections—like B12, Biotin, and Tri-Boost—support energy, metabolism, mood, and cellular health in minutes.

Weight Loss Support: We take a comprehensive, hands-on approach to weight loss that’s rooted in science and guided by real medical oversight utilizing semaglutide and tirzepatide, proven to support sustainable fat loss, metabolic function, and overall health.

Medication is just one part of the journey. Each client receives a customized plan based on their history, current health, lifestyle, and goals. From day one, you’ll work closely with experienced medical professionals who monitor your progress, adjust treatment, and provide expert support every step of the way.

We also integrate nutritional guidance, an at-home fitness program, and accountability check-ins to ensure you’re not just losing weight—but building healthier habits. Whether you’re struggling with stubborn weight, metabolic issues, or just need support, our program helps you feel, move, and live better—safely and effectively.

Fitness & Nutrition Programs: Accessible from anywhere, our at-home program offers structured workouts for all levels—from beginners to seasoned athletes. You’ll also gain education on intuitive eating, helping you build a balanced relationship with food and fuel your body for lasting wellness.

Dietitian Consultations: For targeted nutritional guidance, we offer one-on-one sessions with our licensed dietitian. Whether you’re navigating food sensitivities, chronic conditions, or want to optimize your health, our expert support helps you make informed, sustainable choices.

Botox Treatments – Cosmetic & Medicinal: We offer Botox for both cosmetic enhancement and medical concerns like TMJ and headaches. Whether you’re smoothing fine lines or seeking relief from headaches and TMJ, our physician provider Dr. Shelby Hein, delivers safe, personalized treatments in a professional, comfortable setting.

Microneedling: Improve skin tone, texture, and radiance with professional microneedling by Dr. Shelby Hein. This collagen-boosting, minimally invasive service leaves your skin smoother, firmer, and rejuvenated.

Menopause Care: Coming soon!

Personalized,

Local

Care You Can Trust

At Peak Hydration, you’re more than a client—you’re part of our wellness community. Every service is delivered by experienced medical professionals who take time to understand your goals and provide care that’s personal, not clinical. We’re proud to be a local, non-franchise business deeply connected to the people we serve. Not sure where to start? Have questions? Give us a call, explore our informative website, or just stop in—we’d love to chat with you.

Feel Better. Live Better. Right Here at Home.

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.

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 your friends in a professional, comfortable, and caring environment.

Mt. Baker Vision Clinic is one clinic with three locations within Whatcom County. We are accepting new patients and 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 and exclusive MBVC frame line, designed right here in the Pacific Northwest, boasting exceptional quality and fun unique designs!

Dr. Hannah Joyner Dr. Brian Koning Dr. Steven Koning Dr. Jeffrey Ness Dr. Sepideh Sabet

How Do My Cholesterol Levels Affect My Risk of Heart Attack and Stroke?

High cholesterol can increase your risk of heart attack and stroke. If you’re 20 or older, you should have your traditional risk factors (including cholesterol) checked every four to six years. If certain factors put you at risk, or if you already have heart disease, your health care professional may ask you to check it more often.

What should my cholesterol levels be?

You should look beyond cholesterol levels alone. The best approach considers overall risk assessment and reduction. It’s important to know your numbers and work with your health care professional to treat your risk. They will assess your risk factors to choose the best treatment options.

• If you’re between 40 and 75, ask your health care professional to assess your 10-year risk.

• If you’re between 20 and 39, the priority would be to get an estimate of lifetime risk. If your risk is high, lifestyle and statin medication may help manage it. If your risk remains uncertain, or if treatment options are unclear, you may need a coronary artery calcium (CAC) test. This provides greater insight into your risk and helps in decision-making.

How

will

I know my numbers?

Your health care professional will do a blood test to measure your cholesterol levels. This may be a “fasting” or “nonfasting lipoprotein profile.” It assesses several types of fat in the blood. It’s measured in milligrams per deciliter (mg/dL).

The test gives you four results: total cholesterol, HDL (good) cholesterol, LDL (bad) cholesterol and triglycerides (blood fats).

What is HDL cholesterol?

HDL cholesterol is called “good” cholesterol. A healthy HDL-cholesterol level may protect against heart attack and stroke.

HDL takes cholesterol away from your arteries and back to the liver. There, it’s processed so that excess can be removed from your body. HDL may also remove cholesterol from plaque in the arteries.

What is LDL cholesterol?

LDL cholesterol is known as “bad” cholesterol. The body’s tissues use some of this cholesterol to build cells. But too much of it can cause fatty buildup inside your arteries.

Together with other substances, it can form plaque (a thick, hard, fatty deposit). Plaque narrows the arteries and reduces blood flow. This is called atherosclerosis. If the buildup of plaque ruptures, a blood clot may form at this location or a piece may break off and travel in the bloodstream, causing a heart attack or stroke.

With LDL, lower is better to reduce the risk of heart attack, stroke or peripheral artery disease.

What are triglycerides?

Triglycerides are the most common type of fat in your

(continued)

body. They come from food, and your body also makes them. They store excess energy from your diet.

A high triglyceride level combined with high LDL (bad) cholesterol or low HDL (good) cholesterol is linked with fatty buildups within the artery walls. This increases the risk of heart attack and stroke.

Should I track my numbers?

Use the chart below to track your results each time you have a test. Talk to your health care professional about these numbers and your other risk factors and how they affect your overall risk.

How Do My Cholesterol Levels Affect My Risk of Heart Attack and Stroke?

HOW CAN I LEARN MORE?

Call 1-800-AHA-USA1 (1-800-242-8721) or visit heart.org to learn more about heart disease and stroke.

Connect with others sharing similar journeys with heart disease and stroke by joining our Support Network at heart.org/SupportNetwork.

Do you have questions for the doctor or nurse?

Take a few minutes to write down questions for the next time you see your health care professional.

For example:

How can I reduce my cholesterol?

How often should I have my cholesterol checked?

QUESTIONS:

We have many other fact sheets to help you make healthier choices to reduce your risk of heart disease, manage your condition or care for a loved one. Visit heart.org/AnswersByHeart to learn more.

FIGHT FLU

DON’T LET IT STOP YOU. 65 OR OLDER?

Up to 70% of flu hospitalizations happen among adults 65 years and older. A flu shot is the best protection against flu’s potentially serious complications.

TALK TO A DOCTOR OR PHARMACIST ABOUT GETTING A FLU SHOT.

Bellingham Acupuncture & Wellness

Is Chronic Pain keeping you from living your best life?

Getting older doesn’t have to mean feeling more miserable with each passing year.

We offer a time-tested and effective, non-surgical, nonpharmaceutical approaches to pain management.

We can help reduce the symptoms of conditions like Neuropathy, Low Back Pain, Migraines, Headaches, Hip Pain, Knee/Shoulder Pain, Facial Pain, and Arthritis so that you can get back to getting the most out of life.

Life’s too short to be miserable!

Dr. Chang has 23 years of experience helping people live more fulfilling lives. If you have it, we’ve probably treated it.

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

2801 Meridian Street #102 • Bellingham, WA (360) 756-5866 www.changschinesewellness.com Regain your health and transform your

Set up a complimentary consultation with Dr. Chang to see how our services can help you.

Pregnancy & Health Resource Guide for Women

Children

Catholic Community Services

The CCS NW Recovery Centers provide treatment to youth, adults, and their families. The CCS NW Recovery Centers are a safe, nurturing, and enriching environment where all are treated with dignity and respect, and where clients and their families become empowered to make healthy changes to stop the destruction of substance abuse disorders. CCS emphasizes a broad range of approaches to the treatment of substance abuse disorders, striving to serve those most in need. The philosophy of CCS NW Recovery Centers is that treatment is most effective when it is “family-centered.”

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

Silverado Bellingham

Quality of Life with Dementia is Possible

rough life-enriching care and a highly-skilled sta , Silverado o ers exible care tailored to the changing needs of individuals with memory impairment and their families. Schedule a visit and see what can happen when clinical excellence and compassion meet.

(360) 746-6675

silverado.com/bellingham

Lic. #2386

Empowering individuals with vision loss to live independently in their homes and communities. Free services include:

• Functional low vision assessments

• Adjustment counseling to vision loss

• Skills training with daily living, access technology and communication, including computer, phone, and braille literacy

• Aids and devices: magni ers, lights, talking time pieces, large print calendars, tactual dots, other appropriate equipment

• Information and referrals to resources, including orientation and mobility services

Beth Marsau is an Independent Living service provider with Washington State Dept of Services for the Blind.

Take My Hand At-Home Care is a locally owned and operated eldercare provider. Our Whatcom County caregivers are ready to help your parents, grandparents, friends and neighbors successfully age in place. We provide non-medical companion and home care services throughout Whatcom County. Our eldercare options include daily shifts and even 24-hour live-in assistance, which allows seniors to age-in-place instead of moving to a long-term care facility. Whatever you choose, you will rest assured knowing our friendly local caregivers are helping your loved one with their personal care needs at home when you cannot be there.

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

For over 40 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

Hoagland Pharmacy

Are generic medications safe and effective?

Yes, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) makes sure of it. The FDA puts each generic medicine through a rigorous quality control review process to ensure that generics are as safe and effective as the original brand name medicine. The manufacturing facilities must meet specific standards too. The FDA inspects more than 3,500 pharmaceutical manufacturing facilities each year to monitor how the medicines are made, processed, tested, packaged, and labeled.

When do medication substitutions happen?

In the state of Washington, therapeutic substitution of the AB-rated generic version of a brand name medication is mandatory, unless the prescribing physician specifies that they would like the brand name medication to be dispensed by writing on the prescription “No Substitution”. AB-rated generic medications are therapeutically equivalent to their branded versions. A prior authorization request may be required by the patient’s insurance company for all prescriptions where the prescriber has indicated that he or she would like the brand name version. Hoagland Pharmacy will let the patient’s physician know that the prescribed medication requires prior authorization.

Can I get my prescriptions filled at one pharmacy?

Yes, and it helps the pharmacist check for drug interactions and manage your health more safely.

Do I really need to finish all of my antibiotics?

Yes, even if you feel better, stopping early can lead to resistance.

Do I need a flu shot every year?

Yes, flu strains change annually, and immunity fades over time.

Are vaccines safe for older adults?

Absolutely. In fact, adults over 65 are at a higher risk and benefit greatly.

Does Medicare cover vaccines?

Yes, most vaccines including flu, pneumonia, and COVID-19, are covered under Medicare Part B or D.

Can pharmacists give vaccines?

Yes, all of our pharmacists are trained and certified to vaccinate safely for those age 6 months and older. Many of our Pharmacy Technicians are trained and certified as well.

What’s a Medication Therapy Management Session?

A one-on-one appointment with your pharmacist to review all your medications and improve outcomes.

Hoagland Pharmacy

Can my medication be packaged in a way that helps me to take them on time as prescribed?

Yes, Hoagland Pharmacy offers compliance packaging for those customers who would like to sign up.

How can I get more medication?

You may call your pharmacy team during normal business hours at 360-685-5000. If you choose to leave a message, make sure you leave your name, date of birth, and a good callback number. If you are a caregiver, please be sure to leave your name as well as the patient’s name and date of birth.

How do I handle adverse reactions?

Some adverse reactions you may have are expected and some are not. You may have been taught how to administer your injections at your physician’s office or one of our knowledgeable pharmacists will go over what to expect while on therapy. You will also have an opportunity to discuss possible reactions with a pharmacist when you receive your first course of therapy. You may also call your Pharmacy Team at 360-685-5000 during normal business hours Monday through Friday 9am-6pm and Saturday 9am-5pm. If your reaction is of a critical nature, you should call 911.

How do I dispose of unused medication?

It is against the law for pharmacies to take back unused medication. Hoagland Pharmacy has a medication disposal kiosk for safe destruction of any unused medication.