Whatcom County Health Care Guide 2014

June 25, 2014

Whatcom County

Health Care Guide

A special publication prepared by the Lynden Tribune and Ferndale Record

Dear Reader, The 2014 Whatcom County Health Care Guide contains a question-and-answer forum supplied by local health care providers. The Lynden Tribune and Ferndale Record have joined in obtaining the information available in this magazine.

This medical guide should not be used as a substitute for advice from a medical professional, but it may help people 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, Lynden Tribune & Ferndale Record

Health Care Guide - June 2014 • Lynden Tribune & Ferndale Record

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PeaceHealth St. Joseph Medical Center How to have a safe summer

Summer is the ultimate laid-back time—think flip-flops, T-shirts and barbecues.

Although it’s easy to be casual about many things in the summer, it’s not good to be casual about safety. With warm weather comes the risk for certain injuries and health problems—some serious enough to be life-threatening.

Here are some suggestions on how to keep you and your family safe so you can enjoy lots of summer fun this season: • Pollen allergy. Pollen is a major trigger for hay fever (allergic rhinitis and conjunctivitis) as well as asthma and in some cases allergic skin conditions like eczema and hives. Seasonal pollens come from 3 sources: trees, grasses and weeds. Some people with allergies may be sensitive to all of these while others are only affected by one type. Because plants vary from region to region, the Northwest has a unique set of pollens. In our region, trees pollinate March & April, grasses pollinate May – July, weeds pollinate late June through the end of summer.

Warm, sunny and windy conditions favor pollen dispersal where rainy damp conditions decrease pollen counts.

Living in the county increases exposure to pollen. If pollen exposure affects your health, consider simple ways to decrease exposure including wearing sun glasses when outdoors, removing pollen contaminated clothing upon entering the home, showering and rinsing off skin and hair when coming indoors (family members and pets too), using air conditioning when traveling in cars. If these are not sufficient, medical treatment is available, so discuss further with your primary care physician or allergist.

• Know the signs of anaphylaxis. This potentially deadly allergic reaction is commonly triggered by certain foods, insect stings, medications and, for some, high exposure to airborne allergens like pollens. Symptoms generally include a skin rash (flushing, itching, hives or swelling) with sudden change in breathing (severe cough, wheezing or struggling to breath) and/or lightheadedness or losing consciousness. Anaphylaxis requires immediate medical attention, including an injection of the drug epinephrine and a trip to the hospital emergency department. Early recognition and prompt treatment saves lives. For those with a history of these symptoms, carrying injectable epinephrine is critical.

• Secure home windows. Opening the windows is a must if you don’t have air conditioning or if you’re simply trying to keep your electric bill in check.

But keep this in mind if children are in your home: every year thousands of kids in the U.S. are killed or injured in falls from windows. You can’t depend on screens to keep children safe. Your best choice is to install window guards or window stops—especially on Continued on page 4

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Lynden Tribune & Ferndale Record • Health Care Guide - June 2014

Lynden Family Physical Therapy What happens at a Physical Therapy visit?

Evaluation: At your first visit, a Physical Therapist will evaluate your condition based on your history, physical measures, and special tests. A physical therapy diagnosis will be made and explained to you, goals will be set, and a treatment plan will be established. If a physician recommended your physical therapy, we will send a report to your physician summarizing your assessment, goals and plan. Every 30 days, we will update your physician with a report of your progress.

Exercise: Almost every physical therapy visit involves exercise that is specifically designed for your diagnosis. Depending on your evaluation, your exercises will help to improve flexibility, strength, endurance, balance or coordination.

Manual Therapy: Manual therapy is a general term for treatment using a therapist’s hands. This may include massage or joint mobilizations. The goals of manual therapy are to reduce pain, increase motion at a particular joint or relax muscles.

Education: Physical therapy often involves education including how to complete your home exercise program and how to avoid re-injury.

Vestibular rehabilitation: Vestibular rehabilitation involves improving your inner ear’s response to changes in position.

These patients are frequently referred to our clinic due to vertigo or balance problems.

ACL tear prevention: ACL tears are extremely common in high school aged athletes. The vast majority of these injuries are now thought to be preventable. Studies have shown a 400% decrease in the incidence of ACL tears using appropriate preventative measures. We are now able to predict and prevent most of these season ending injuries.

Bracing/Orthotic fabrication: Orthotics can be a helpful tool in relieving pain and preventing dysfunction at the foot, ankle and knee. When appropriate, we assess and measure patients for orthotics to help control the body from the ground up.

Graston: Graston Technique is a unique form of instrument assisted soft tissue mobilization that allows for improved diagnosis and treatment of many difficult musculoskeletal conditions. Our staff is 100% Graston Technique certified.

Health Care Guide - June 2014 • Lynden Tribune & Ferndale Record

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PeaceHealth St. Joseph Medical Center Continued from page 2

bedroom windows. You can buy them online or at hardware stores. Also, try to keep furniture away from windows to discourage kids from climbing near windows.

• Make helmets a priority. Many kids practically live on their bikes during the summer. Before yours hop on theirs, make sure they’re wearing a helmet. (The same advice applies to you.) Helmets help reduce the risk of head injury—such as concussion and other traumatic brain injuries—and of death from bicycle crashes. Helmets are also a good idea when riding a horse or skateboard, batting or running bases in baseball or softball, or using inline skates.

Sally Newbrough, MD

Asthma/Allergy PeaceHealth Medical Group-Whatcom 4545 Cordata Parkway, Suite 1C Bellingham, WA 98226 360-738-2200 Sally Newbrough, MD is a board-certified internal medicine doctor specializing in allergy and immunology. She earned her MD at University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine, completed her internship and residency at Yale New Haven Hospital, and her allergy/immunology fellowship at University of Washington School of Medicine.

Q: My daughter sometimes gets dizzy and says she sees stars. What is causing this and what can I do to help?

A: When no other symptoms are present, dizziness and seeing stars are often signs of a migraine headache. Parents tend to associate most of their children’s headaches with a cold or flu, but studies indicate that migraines and tension headaches are quite common in children and adolescents. Other symptoms of migraines include throbbing pain in the head; stomachaches; nausea; and sensitivity to light, noise, and smells.

If you suspect that your child is having a migraine, help ease the pain by having her rest quietly in a dark room and relax.

Often children with migraines will feel better with rest and sleep.

Seek immediate medical care if your child has headaches after a recent fall or blow to the head or if your child can’t keep food or liquids down. If you child’s headaches last longer than one or two days, wake her from sleep, or get worse, consider having your child evaluated by a specialist if the symptoms continue.

Seema J. Afridi, MD

Pediatric Neurology PeaceHealth Medical Group-Whatcom 710 Birchwood Ave. Bellingham, WA 98225 360-788-6870 Seema J. Afridi, MD is a board-certified neurologist who specializes in pediatric neurology. She received her medical degree from Southern Illinois University, her pediatric internship and residency at University of Washington, and her neurology residency at University of Washington.

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Lynden Tribune & Ferndale Record • Health Care Guide - June 2014

Senior Lifestyle Services The freedom to remain independent as we get older is essential to maintaining a happy and healthy life. But life happens and sometimes we need to adjust - that may mean how and where we live. Most people want to stay in their homes as they age. Aging in place is much more than being in an environment of choice as you get older, it means home – where your emotional and functional needs are met. It is where family histories are created and memories reside. Your home contains so many reminders that delight the senses and support your identity. Your home is in a community you have cultivated over the years. It is where you live. Let us help you stay there.

Senior Lifestyle Services offers in-home care to seniors. It can be short term if you or a loved one need(s) help after a hospital stay or an injury. It can be long term if someone needs assistance with the activities of daily living. We take great care in selecting our caregivers. We put them through a rigorous hiring process – State of Washington background check, relevant work experience, reference checks, work authorization clearance, clean driving record. Our caregivers are licensed, bonded, and insured. We take the time so you don’t have to.

We understand that the essence of home is a place where you can feel safe and have the ability to control and enjoy your experiences and rich memories. It’s the center of those daily rituals you love so much. It is where you live and where you plan to stay. Let us help you!

Senior Lifestyle Services, a Washington State licensed in-home care agency, can help you maintain your independence and remain in your home by providing services where you live and when you need them. We offer a variety of full time or part time care and can tailor it to meet your needs.

• Personal Care • Companion Services • Medication Reminders & Assistance • Alzheimer’s or Dementia Care • Respite Care for Family Caregivers • Transportation • Errands / Shopping / Doctor Visits • Meal Preparation • Light Housekeeping ...and more!

Call Paula Casey for a FREE consultation!

360.393.8363

SeniorLifestyleServicesWA.com

Serving all of Whatcom County and these 55+ retirement communities:

Health Care Guide - June 2014 • Lynden Tribune & Ferndale Record

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Lynden Manor What is Lynden Manor?

• Lynden Manor is an Assisted-Living retirement home.

• Residents are as independent as they want to be.

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

• Apartments are cleaned weekly.

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

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

• Lynden Manor has a separate Dementia care wing.

Why Lynden Manor?

• Lynden Manor is Independent, Assisted and Dementia care all in one.

• Privately owned by a local partnership.

• Highly recommended by local physicians.

• Excellent Reputation in Whatcom County.

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

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Lynden Tribune & Ferndale Record • Health Care Guide - June 2014

Good Samaritan Society - Stafholt Bellingham Denture “Everyone went out of their way to help me. It really was exceptional care by exceptional people. No matter what the problem was - I was never ignored. I spent three weeks at a different facility in Bellingham and I can tell you the experience at Stafholt was as different as night and day! The little things at Stafholt make it so nice - beautiful flowers, friendly staff, comfortable rooms, excellent food. Go to Stafholt if you are recovering from a surgery - you won’t regret it!”

-Sally Coulthurst, Bellingham, WA

When should dentures be replaced?

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

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

How will implants help me?

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

G

ood Samaritan Society-Stafholt, Post-Acute Rehabilitation Services.

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

Our outstanding caregivers work tirelessly every day to deliver exceptional care.

456 C Street, Blaine, WA 98230

360-332-8733

www.good-sam.com

Serving Whatcom County for more than 50 years.

Health Care Guide - June 2014 • Lynden Tribune & Ferndale Record

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

Free Consultations & Evaluations www.bellinghamdentureclinic.com

360.647.0395

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

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Lynden Family Medicine When is my blood pressure too high?

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

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

Family Care Network

We Take Care Steve Alexander, MD Hannah Bujak, MD Oliver Bujak, MD Margaret Burden, MD Robin Caldwell, MD Karen Goodman, ARNP John Gunningham, MD Larry Hartwell, MD John Hiemstra, DO Bruce Pederson, MD Teresa Reiger, ARNP Sarah Stewart, ARNP

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Lynden Family Medicine and Birch Bay Family Medicine are dedicated to meeting the medical needs of the north Whatcom County community. The Physicians are all Diplomats of the American Board of Family Medicine, and our Nurse Practitioners are nationally certified in the specialty of family medicine. As family physicians and practitioners, they serve people in several areas of expertise, including pregnancy care, women’s health care, health care for children, adult medicine, care of the elderly and minor surgery.

We are two local clinics making community connections for compassionate and coordinated care. For more information about Family Care Network clinics and locations visit familycarenetwork.com.

Lynden Family Medicine

1610 Grover Street, Suite D-1, Lynden • (360) 354-1333

Birch Bay Family Medicine 8097 Harborview Rd., Blaine • (360) 371-5855

Lynden Tribune & Ferndale Record • Health Care Guide - June 2014

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

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

United Way is solving crucial community issues right here in Whatcom County by working with a variety of partners and focusing on a number of strategies to ensure a healthy community for all.

How can I receive a discount on prescription drugs?

Through United Way’s partnership with FamilyWize you could save up to 75% on your prescriptions. Just cut out the Prescription Discount Card on this page, take it to a participating pharmacy (over 60,000 participating pharmacies nationwide!), and use it over and over again. No sign-up or activation required. More than 9,000 Whatcom County residents have already saved more than $830,000 on prescription costs.

United Way of Whatcom County unitedwaywhatcom.org

WE ALL WIN WHEN

KIDS AND ADULTS

ARE LIVING

HEALTHY AND

ACTIVE LIVES

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

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

Health Care Guide - June 2014 • 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 c re o u r su

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

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

Visit our website at www.VisitingAngelsWA.com 10

Lynden Tribune & Ferndale Record • Health Care Guide - June 2014

Lamphere Insurance, Financial & Estate Planning Who will take care of me when I need Long Term Medical Care?

Who will pay for my Long Term Care bills?

With our longer life expectancies, we are now experiencing a new kind of health crisis in our country. An individual will now have a greater than 50% chance of needing some form of help with their physical and mental long term health care needs. Without the proper pre planning for the occurrence of this likely event, the results can be devastating to both the person in need of the care as well as their family members, negatively impacting the lives of their loved ones.

People often think that Medicare and Medicaid will pay for their long term care expenses. But, the truth of the matter is, Medicare was never intended to pay for this type of care. The Medicaid program is designed to help the poor pay for long term care in a facility only. And since most people want to stay at home as long as they can, Medicaid, if a person qualifies, would defeat that purpose. Planning ahead provides alternatives which can allow you to keep full control of your health care needs while simultaneously protecting your assets. With the ratio of taxpayers to each person on Medicaid equaling 2-to-1 (Kaiser 4/11), it is very risky to trust that Medicaid services will be available when needed. A solution to this social and stressful family epidemic is to plan ahead, by using a Financial Advisor who is well versed in both the financial and insurance side of this issue. If you have any question or would like to make an appointment with a professional, feel free to give us a call.

Simplify Your Life!

™

Your

-time Resource for

BABY BOOMERS & SENIORS

Our Local, Experienced Team offers Personal Service for:

• Insurance & Financial Consolidation • Medicare Plans • Long-Term Care • Retirement • Special Needs

• Estate Planning • Pre-Retirement • 401K Rollovers • Charitable Giving • Final Expenses

113 Third Street • Lynden Neither LIFE Planning, nor their employees are associated with the US Government or the Medicare program.

Health Care Guide - June 2014 • Lynden Tribune & Ferndale Record

Call us today!

354-5333

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WHATCOM COUNTY Retirement Centers, Adult Family Homes, In-home Care & Assisted Living Emeritus at Fairhaven The premier Assisted Living Community on the south side.

We offer: Personalized Care & Services, Medication Assistance & Respite Care.

We are passionately committed to making a difference in people’s lives by providing service of the highest quality and value in a safe, supportive environment, promoting the health, independence and social interaction of seniors.

Our Family is Committed to Yours. www.emeritus.com • Fairhaven-CRD@emeritus.com 2600 Old Fairhaven Pkwy, Bellingham, WA 98225 360-647-1254

Meadow Greens

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

Lynden Adult Family Home

Sweet Golden Years

Conveniently located on the Hannegan Road, between Kelly and Smith Road intersection.

Staffed by nurses and certified caregivers, trained in Dementia Care. Cozy setting with a barn, garden and apple trees. Call for a tour!

4952 Hannegan Road, Bellingham, WA 98226 360-933-4728

Lynden Manor

Assisted Living and Dementia Care Wing

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

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

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

Bring your loved one to a home with family atmosphere and professional care. Specializing in Dementia and Alzheimers care.

1772 Eastwood Way, Lynden, WA 98264 Call Lana for more information. www.LyndenAFH.com 360-393-9222

We offer on call 24/7 personalized case by case care.

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

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Lynden Tribune & Ferndale Record • Health Care Guide - June 2014

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

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

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

Answer: This depends on many factors such as patients age, activity level, and how recent the amputation occurred. Most prostheses will last 2-5 years with minor adjustments and repairs.

There are always components and parts that wear out so patients should see their prosthetist at least once a year.

www.cascadepoclinics.com P&O_healthcare-guide.indd 2 Health Care Guide - June 2014 • Lynden Tribune & Ferndale Record

1360 Sunset Avenue, Ferndale, WA 98248 ph: 360.384.1858

17670 Dunbar Road, Mt. Vernon, WA 98273 ph: 360.428.4003

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6/4/2014 8:43:53 AM

Louisa Place What to do when a parent says I don’t need your help, I can still manage my own affairs?

Write down all the questions that you as a family may have, such as: Do you have an updated will, updated healthcare proxy, list of assets and valuables? What kind of insurances do you have? Long term insurance? Also ask about important papers: marriage license, DD214 paper work, safe deposit boxes, birth places, mother’s maiden name, etc.

Then sit down with your parents and ask them to help you with the answers so that you may help them if they could not manage their affairs.

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

Louisa Place Housekeeping 24/7 Staffing Activities 3 Great Meals a day

Beautiful Courtyard Month to Month Assisted Living Services 39 Roomy Apartments

ST OP BY FO R A TO UR TO DAY!

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

(360) 354-8200 www.meadowgreenslynden.com

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Lynden Tribune & Ferndale Record • Health Care Guide - June 2014

Mount Baker Kidney Center One in seven Americans will be diagnosed with chronic kidney disease. Currently, 4.4 million have already been diagnosed.

At its core, Mount Baker Kidney Center provides state-of-the-art, life-sustaining dialysis treatment and care. The Center provides outpatient dialysis, home hemodialysis, peritoneal dialysis and acute dialysis.

Professional on-site staff provide clinical, technical, nutritional, social and administrative services as long as patients are under Mount Baker Kidney Center’s care. Onsite nephrologists and staff are devoted to the medical and emotional needs of patients.

Health Care Guide - June 2014 • Lynden Tribune & Ferndale Record

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Yeh Orthodontics

Premier Dental

What are some of the conditions that might indicate my child should be seen by an orthodontist?

Why are my teeth wearing down on the surfaces and my fillings breaking? I also have jaw joint pain at times.

* Early or late loss of primary teeth

You may be grinding your teeth and have a condition called bruxism. About 15 percent of people have a habit of grinding their teeth or clenching their jaw. Most people do it in their sleep, so it often goes undetected until a family member hears the grinding sound or a dentist notices symptoms. Visit your dentist if you have symptoms and ask about having a night guard made to help this condition before it causes severe damage to the teeth.

* Difficulty in chewing or biting * Mouth breathing * Thumb or finger sucking * Crowded, misplaced, or impacted teeth * Improper fit of jaws * Biting cheeks or biting into the roof of the mouth

L I N H T . V U D . D . S .

COSMETIC & GENERAL DENTISTRY

Implants • Su rgery • Dentures Nitrous Oxide • Orthodontics Periodontics • Invisalyn

Practicing in Ferndale Over 21 Years

How do I know if orthodontic treatment is needed?

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

Complimentary consultations are provided.

2086 Main Street Ferndale | 360-380-4553 premierdentalcenterwa.com

360-389-3198

applepediatricdentistry.com Fax: (866)501-0671

Can braces be placed on a child too early?

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

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In-office general anesthesia/oral sedation We accept all insurance including DSHS Serving 6 months to 19 years old

B e l l i n g h a m

F e r n d a l e

Lynden Tribune & Ferndale Record • Health Care Guide - June 2014

CarrDorsh Family Dental Need a dental crown? CarrDorsch 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. A dental crown is most often used for protecting a tooth when its ongoing health is at risk.

What is the procedure like?

Traditionally a two-appointment procedure, CarrDorsch 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 CarrDorsch Family Dental to create them in their 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 CarrDorsch Family Dental to preserve more of a patient’s healthy, natural tooth structure.

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

FLOSSING

doesn’t prevent everything.

• • • •

Dental Implants Crowns Hygiene Full-Service

(360) 734 9926 CarrDorschDental.com

Health Care Guide - June 2014 • Lynden Tribune & Ferndale Record

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Custom Rx Shoppe How can the Synchronized Prescription program help me with my medications?

How much does it cost to have my medications delivered?

The Synchronized Prescription program saves you time and multiple trips to the pharmacy by aligning all of your medications to be due on the same day each month. Custom Rx Shoppe will automatically fill them on the specified day and deliver them to your home--it’s easy, convenient and free!

Custom Rx Shoppe offers free delivery throughout Whatcom and Skagit counties! We can deliver your medications, incontinence supplies, durable medical equipment and home health supplies, such as gloves, masks or diabetic supplies, right to your home or work.

We’re proud to be your one-stop-shop pharmacy!

Your Family Friendly, Locally Owned & Operated Retail, Long Term Care and Compounding Pharmacy • FREE Daily Deliveries • L & I Claim Filing • Customized Medication Assistance for Retail & Long Term Care Customers • Compounded Medications for You & Your Pets • Wide Variety of Over-the-Counter Medications & Home Health Equipment • Immunization Clinic - more than 15 vaccinations available

(360) 685-4242 • 1313 E. Maple St. Suite 101, Bellingham, WA 98225 Located behind Boomers Drive-In, just off Samish Way. Mon-Fri 8am-6:30pm • Sat 10am-5pm • Closed Sundays

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anywhere in Whatcom & Skagit Counties 6 Days a week!

Home of the Synchronized Prescription Program

• Medicare & DSHS Billing

www.customrxshoppe.com

FREE DELIVERY

Are you having a hard time remembering to take your medication? We have the solution.

Do you ever go to the pharmacy and have no refills?

We manage refills, so you never run out.

Do you have to go to the pharmacy every week for another medication? We have free delivery to Lynden.

Lynden Tribune & Ferndale Record • Health Care Guide - June 2014

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

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

Should my children wear sunglasses?

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

MT. BAKER VISION CLINIC Dr. Wayne Musselman

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

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

Dr. Jeffrey Larson

Dr. Brian Koning

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

354-7933

Mon., Wed., Thurs.

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

You deserve the best in optical and medical eye care!

Since 1951. One Clinic. Two Locations.

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

Health Care Guide - June 2014 • Lynden Tribune & Ferndale Record

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Clearview Eyecare

Gentle Acupuncture

What is “blue light” and how does it affect my eyes?

If I’m scared of needles, can I still be treated with Oriental Medicine?

High-Energy Visible Light, also known as “blue light,” is experienced through sunlight, fluorescent lights, TV screens, and most prominently through personal electronic devices such as smart phones, tablets and laptops. There is mounting evidence that cumulative lifetime exposure to blue light increases the risk of age-related macular degeneration. Blue light also suppresses melatonin which is necessary for regulating sleep cycles. So those who are on their phones, tablets or computers right before bedtime are noticing poorer quality sleep. There are lens options available which help decrease a person’s exposure to blue light, lessening its effects.

Ask your optometric physician about the different ways you can protect your eyes while using electronic devices.

If you are terrified of needles, but you’re tired of suffering and want to try Oriental Medicine, you can be treated without needles. Tui Na is “massage-style” technique. Cupping and GuaSha involve cutaneous stimulation to increase blood flow. And there is Herbal medicine. These applications treat a variety of health issues.

What is Facial Rejuvenation or Cosmetic Acupuncture?

Using acupuncture needles or other tools you can look refreshed or years younger. Theory maintains that as we age, we have less qi (energy) in our bodies causing skin to wrinkle and sag. Treatments can boost qi and blood circulation, increase collagen, tone skin & diminish fine lines, plus make you feel energized, yet relaxed.

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

Pain Management Stress/Emotional Issues Facial Rejuvenation

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

360-392-8306

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

www.clearvieweyecarewa.com

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

Provider for Most Insurances Visa/Mastercard

Lynden Tribune & Ferndale Record • Health Care Guide - June 2014

Walk-In Health Clinic Inc.

Pam Hanson Insurance Solutions

Do I need an appointment?

I am on Medicare and have had the same supplement & prescription plan for quite some time. Should I review my coverages to make sure I’m getting the most for my money?

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

We accept most insurance and are preferred by many. We also accept private pay at a discount at time of service.

Do I need antibiotics?

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

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

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

Health Care Guide - June 2014 • Lynden Tribune & Ferndale Record

Yes, there are always changes happening with Medicare and it is wise to review with an agent who is knowledgeable and up-to-date with the changes and different options. I specialize in senior health and keep myself current with what is available for seniors.

Pam Hanson INSURANCE SOLUTIONS

NEED HELP? • Medicare Advantage Plans • Medicare Supplements • Prescription Plans • Long Term Care Insurance

“I can help get your Medicare Coverage set up.

Give me a call today!”

Specializing in Senior Health www.pamhansoninsurance.com Pam@PamHansonIns.com

(360) 224-1395 In-Home Appointments!

15 Years Experience!

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YMCA

Van Dalen Insurance

Whatcom Family YMCA - Made To Move

If I am a small business owner without a group plan established for my employees do I have to wait until open enrollment to purchase an employer sponsored health insurance plan for my company?

Your body is made to move. Years ago we had to move to accomplish daily tasks and many recreational choices included movement. Technology, while in many ways very useful & an enormous time saver, is not necessarily good for our physical health. Why get up when we can stay put and accomplish our task with the push of a button? Get up because we now know that extended bouts of sitting have been moved up to a serious cardiovascular risk factor similar to smoking, obesity or high stress. Even if you exercise the recommended 150 minutes a week, sitting too much can still be detrimental to your health. In fact, combining low physical activity with increased longevity has led to increase in sarcopenia (sarcopenia, which translates to flesh poverty) is a degenerative loss of skeletal muscle mass, quality & strength.

Prefer to avoid sitting that is associated with cardiovascular risk and sarcopenia that could affect your ability to complete your activities of daily living? Move. That’s right, you don’t even have to formally exercise you just need to move. Make it a goal to not conserve energy, but to spend it. A fail-safe movement tutor is a child because sitting still is the last thing they want to do & they are not accomplished sitters. Model your movement on their never-sit-still-or-long habit. Getting up and moving could lead to one more positive exercisegiving the risk of prolonged sitting & sarcopenia a swift kick in the pants. Your strong, active body will thank you later.

No. You can purchase a small group insurance plan at any time during the year!

If I choose to have no health insurance in 2015 is there a penalty?

Yes! Just like 2014 with only a few exceptions, most individuals without health insurance will be subject to a penalty.

For 2015 that penalty for an individual will be either $325 or 2% of your annual income, whichever is greater.

Are you in need of health insurance?

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

We can help with:

SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE Join the Y Today Activities for all ages to help build healthy lifestyles and have fun too!

WHATCOM FAMILY YMCA

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www.whatcomymca.org

Shane Van Dalen, Agent

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

VAN DALEN INSURANCE

Kimberly Hansen, Agent

360-354-4433

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

Lynden Tribune & Ferndale Record • Health Care Guide - June 2014

Asthma & Allergy Center of Whatcom County My five-year-old son with asthma, who was in the ER one month ago, feels fine now, but has a cough with activity, and sometimes at night. Does he need daily medication?

Your son likely has persistent rather than intermittent asthma and may need a daily controller medication for his optimal bronchial airflow. Cough is an important indicator for asthma. Airflow evaluation such as peak flow, FEV, or spirometry is important to determine if asthma could be present, even if there are no symptoms.

What over-the-counter medications are useful in treating seasonal allergies?

Non-prescription products that may be beneficial include NeilMed or NetiPot for nose airway irrigation. Eye rinses are also available. A name brand or generic antihistamine such as Claritan, Allegra or Zyrtec is recommended. An eye drop containing Ketotifen is often recommended. Nasalcrom used 2-4 times daily may be helpful. For moderate to severe allergy symptoms, prescription anti-inflammatory medication is usually needed.

FREE!

FREE CaptionCall phone with professional certification*

Call to schedule your free hearing exam today!

See if you qualify for a FREE CaptionCall phone (a $199 value). *Contact our office for more detail.

“putting you in control of your allergies and asthma” William H. Anderson, M.D.

Now you can hear and read what your callers say!

Hearing Northwest “We Help People Hear Better”

Board Certified, Allergy - Immunology Children and Adults

Located in the Barkley Medical Center 756-2000

www.AsthmaAllergyWhat.com • www.WhatcomPollen.com

Health Care Guide - June 2014 • Lynden Tribune & Ferndale Record

360-312-4833 Financing Avail. OAC

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

www.hearingnorthwest.com 23

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

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

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

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

St. Francis of Bellingham What is your staffing?

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

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

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

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Lynden Tribune & Ferndale Record • Health Care Guide - June 2014

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

Jessica Maassen, Au.D. Audiologist

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

bellingham the

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

Over 25 Years of Providing Skilled Nursing and Rehabilitation Services to Whatcom County

SKILLED NURSING • TRANSITIONAL REHAB • LONG TERM CARE

3121 Squalicum Parkway Bellingham, WA 98225

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