CONNECTING YOU TO Resources & Information.

Every day at Whitman County Public Health, we work to help individuals, children, and families thrive. We work to prevent illness and injury. We work to build healthier places to live, learn, work, and play in our community.

The Palouse Resource Guide is an online tool designed to assist residents of Whitman and Latah Counties in finding comprehensive resources to support their health, their family's well-being, and the overall health of our community.

TOP 5 SEARCHED PALOUSE RESOURCES.

1 2 3 4 5 Housing Dental

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Palouse Resource Guide Annual Health Summary

As Whitman County and our community evolve, we provide up-to-date public health data through our Annual Health Summary, ensuring comprehensive information for all.

We're coming up on a year since Peter first came to the Whitman County Humane Society! We're still hoping we can get this sweetheart adopted before then.

Peter is a 3 year old Pit Bull Mix, and originally came in to us as an unclaimed stray. Since then, he's been trained by multiple handlers on basic obedience, as well as leash manners.

Peter does have reactivity towards other dogs and smaller animals, so we believe he would do best as being the only dog in the household.

If you or someone you know has a current pet-free home and are looking to adopt a four legged friend, then give us a call to schedule an appointment!

You can reach the staff via phone at (509)-332-3422, or by email at staff@whitmanpets.org

If you're looking for a good way to spend your day, stop by the shelter and meet your potential furever friend.

If you don't have the ability to commit long term, we are also actively looking for fosters! All supplies are provided in fostering, we just ask that you provide the love and attention to our foster friends

To view our available animals, visit us at: https://www.whitmanpets.org/adoptable-pets.html

15th Annual Stuff the Bus

The Kiwanis Club of Pullman, in partnership with local school districts, collects school supplies for children in the area. The need is greater than ever, so we’re asking everyone to help kids get ready to learn this fall.

August

Wheatland Mall in Pullman

If you have a gently used musical instrument to donate, we can collect it at Safeway during Stu the Bus, have it reconditioned, and give it to Pullman school bands!

Keeping Your Mind Sharp: What You Need To Know

As we age, staying active becomes increasingly important. When you hear “active,” you probably think of cardio classes, bike rides, or any other physical activity. But did you know that exercising your mind is just as important? Dr. Kristen Jessen, Neurologist at Palouse Neurology, provides some tips and tricks to keeping your mind active and engaged as you age.

What is dementia?

Dementia is a progressive brain disease that damages nerve cells in the brain and causes memory loss, confusion, problems with language comprehension, and behavioral changes. As nerve cells are damaged, the brain’s ability to work properly is reduced.

What are the risk factors for developing dementia?

The risk factor list for dementia is extensive. It includes a family history of dementia, lower education level, drug use, alcohol use, tobacco use, chronic smoke exposure, stroke, heart attack, brain disease (like MS or Parkinson’s), head trauma, hypertension, diabetes, lipids, infections (like HIV or sepsis), poorly controlled epilepsy, and history of delirium. If you have one or more of these risk factors, talk with your primary care physician at your next annual wellness appointment about your individual risk.

“There are numerous medical conditions that can look like dementia, but are treatable or reversible. These include thyroid infections, vitamin deficiencies, subclinical seizures, depression, lack of quality sleep, heavy metal exposures, autoimmune diseases, and kidney/heart/lung disease,” says Dr. Jessen.

Does diet affect the likelihood of developing dementia?

There are some simple diet tweaks that can have a big impact on the health of your mind. For those that eat meat, Dr. Jessen recommends opting for wilder or game meat such as elk, moose, and buffalo when available. She also favors cold water fish such as halibut and salmon to warm water fish like mahi mahi. Overall, following a Mediterraneanbased diet of mostly beans, nuts, fruits, and vegetables is recommended by Dr. Jessen.

Research has shown that higher levels of antioxidants from consuming fruits and vegetables consistent with a Mediterranean-based diet may help protect brain cells from damage and increase the protein levels in the brain. Additional benefits of this diet include reduced signs of inflammation and lower cholesterol.

Does physical activity help keep your mind active?

Physical activity includes anything that raises your heart rate and leaves you breathing hard. These can be sports like running, hiking, and swimming or tactical activities like splitting wood, raking leaves, and shoveling snow.

Physical activity assists with blood flow in the brain and increases chemicals that protect the brain. Some research has shown that regular physical activity is linked to improved memory, attention, and processing speeds.

"The mind is like a muscle. Use it or lose it- you need to exercise it every day," says Dr. Jessen.

What hobbies can I pick up to help keep my mind active?

“The mind is like a muscle. Use it or lose it– you need to exercise it every day,” advises Dr. Jessen. She notes that studies have shown that the wider the variety of activities you do, the better! It’s recommended to start at retirement, or 10 years prior to the age anyone in your family developed dementia. She recommends that for a hobby or activity to really be impactful, you should engage with it for at least 20 minutes a day.

Learning a new hobby or skill with your hands can help keep your brain active. If you’re musically-inclined, playing the piano or guitar are great options. If you’re artistic, consider carving, painting, sewing, quilting, or whittling. If you like to move your body, tai chi or yoga might be more your speed.

Language activities like crossword puzzles, boggle, scrabble, reading novels can also aid in activating your mind. Watch out for word searches in newspapers and magazines though- Dr. Jessen says those are often too easy to really get your mind working.

Time to book a trip to Vegas? Dr. Jessen recommends counting games such as poker, blackjack, whist, rummy, and Sudoku. She cautions that solitaire is too simple, so don’t count on that activity for mental stimulation.

When should I start focusing on a new hobby to keep my mind active?

It's recommended to start at retirement or 10 years before the age that anyone in your family has developed dementia. For a hobby or activity to really be impactful, you should engage with it for at least 20 minutes a day, according to Dr. Jessen, who also notes that studies have shown that the wider the variety of activities you do, the better.

How do I know if I need to see a neurologist?

Dr. Jessen and her fellow neurologist, Dr. Sarita Said, practice at Palouse Neurology, a specialty service of Palouse Specialty Physicians – a partnership with local hospitals Gritman Medical Center, Pullman Regional Hospital, and Whitman Hospital & Medical Clinics. To see a neurologist, you need a referral from your primary care provider or, in emergency cases, a referral from an emergency medicine provider. “By practicing preventative activities, we can empower ourselves and others to stay healthy,” reminds Dr. Jessen. “My philosophy of care is truly to make my patients happy. This is finding the best balance of lifestyle changes and medication to minimize side effects and maximize quality of life.”

To learn more: https://www.palousespecialty.com/

Welcome Dr. Schreiber

Pullman Surgical Associates is excited to welcome BoardCertified Gastroenterologist, Ann Marie Schreiber, DO to the team! She is helping expand gastrointestinal services with current provider, Jo Taniguchi, ARNP.

Dr. Schreiber intended to go into emergency medicine, but she fell in love with gastroenterology because she liked interacting with patients and seeing them postprocedure, not just when they’re experiencing a medical issue. “It’s the perfect mix of medicine and procedures. I also enjoy the preventative care aspect- I get to intervene and help prevent cancers, not just treat once they’ve formed,” says Dr. Schreiber.

Dr. Schreiber has over 10 years of gastroenterology experience and is open to referrals for patients 18+ who are in need of general GI care including constipation, diarrhea, IBS, acid reflux, abdominal discomfort, liver disease, pancreatic issues, Crohn’s disease, colonoscopies & more!

Dr. Schreiber wants her patients to know that colonoscopies are the ultimate preventative care and to ensure they don’t delay routine screenings. She also wants to emphasize that she knows what it’s like to be on the other side, as a patient and family member, and empathizes with those who are looking for answers and relief of symptoms. She strives to help them get the care they need so they can continue to live their life.

Outside of work, Dr. Schreiber enjoys spending time with her familyincluding her 13 year old daughter and golden retriever named Moose, boating, hiking, and enjoying the outdoors.

Dr. Schreiber earned an undergraduate degree from the University of Kansas in Fine Arts, and a post-baccalaureate from San Francisco State University. She attended Medical School at Michigan State University, and did her residency for Internal Medicine at Michigan State University, and a fellowship in Gastroenterology at Michigan State University.

Anxiety in Children: 6 Things to Know

Everybody experiences different fears, worries, and stresses in life; kids are no exception. Children can exhibit stronger fears depending on their age and stages of development. Fears and worries are natural. However, persistent or extreme forms of fear could be due to anxiety. A great example is separation anxiety. Typically, toddlers become upset or distressed about being away from their parent(s), even if they're safe and being cared for.

It's common for a child to experience anxiety when starting preschool or grade school. From 2016 to 2019, nearly 10 percent of children ages 3-17 were diagnosed with anxiety, with that number continuing to rise. Yes, the unfamiliar feeling of separation from routine is uncomfortable for most people, but when that feeling of anxiety or fear overcomes a child to the point it’s limiting their life, it may be time to consult a doctor.

"Anxiety in children can hold them back from achieving their ultimate potential in life and definitely decreases their quality of life," says Dr. Mike Frostad (Dr. Mike), a pediatrician at Palouse Pediatrics, a member of the Pullman Regional Hospital network of clinics. "If the anxiety is minor and not really disruptive to the child or the family, then it may make sense for parents to work with the child on the issues and monitor closely."

With over 25 years of experience in pediatric care, Dr. Mike has seen and helped many children get the help they need when facing anxieties and fears that may be holding them back. He took time to answer general questions about anxieties and help parents understand how to best help their children:

Will anxiety go away on its own?

Most of the time, minor anxieties will go away as children become more familiar with an experience or situation. However, in some cases, when the anxiety doesn't go away, it may disrupt a child's daily life. Those hindrances may affect their education and learning ability, social interactions, and sometimes even their sleep schedule.

What steps should be taken if anxiety worsens or doesn't go away?

If left untreated, anxiety can significantly burden children throughout their lives. "Anxiety tends to wax and wane depending on life circumstances and stressors," Dr. Mike says. "Sometimes anxiety builds to the point of debilitation." Visiting a pediatrician to identify the issues and formulate a plan is a great place to start. The goal is to treat the anxiety before it becomes debilitating.

What should someone expect when visiting the pediatrician for their child's anxiety?

Counseling helps the child develop various coping strategies, sometimes using medication. When visiting with a pediatrician one of the basic strategies that may be discussed or suggested is a referral for ongoing counseling. According to Dr. Mike, typically, there are "follow-up visits to check on progress and adjusting the treatment plan as needed."

How often does a child need medication to help with their anxiety?

While medication is sometimes part of treatment plans, it is not always used. "Recent studies show that if treatment consists of both counseling and medication strategies, the child is likely to have more rapid improvement," Dr. Mike says. "This also makes it less likely the child will struggle with the anxiety again in the future."

How long does a child typically take medication for anxiety once prescribed?

When medication is prescribed, it is most often used for 6-12 months. In that time frame, it helps gain momentum towards improvement and, in addition to counseling, where the child learns effective coping strategies. Dr. Mike explains, "After a sustained period of improvement, and with discussion with the patient and family, medication is discontinued carefully, and the team monitors the anxiety symptoms in the child." The medication will occasionally be resumed if the anxiety symptoms become disruptive. "Some children do so much better on the medication that they are kept on it long term," says Dr. Mike.

Are children with anxiety more likely to suffer from depression or other mental health issues?

Simply put, yes. "Children with anxiety are more likely to also struggle with issues like learning disorders, depression, attention problems, and social stressors," according to Dr. Mike. "That should be addressed as part of the child's overall treatment plan.”

Anxiety symptoms can affect a child's sleep, increasing the chances of physical symptoms like fatigue, headaches, or stomachaches. When watching for signs of anxiety, look for extensive fear or worry, but also watch for irritability and anger emotions. Sometimes, children can internalize symptoms like worrying, thus, making anxiety more challenging to detect.

If your child is exhibiting any signs of anxiety or if you are concerned about the possibility of your child having anxiety, please call Palouse Pediatrics to schedule an appointment with one of our pediatricians in Pullman, WA or Moscow, ID.

Pullman office: (509) 332-2605

Moscow office: (208) 882-2247

What Is The Bear Implant, And How Can It Help You Heal Your ACL?

An ACL injury involves a tear or sprain of the anterior cruciate ligament, the tissue that connects your thigh bone to your shinbone. Traditional ACL reconstruction for injuries requires surgery to remove the ACL and a graft to replace the tendon from the patient’s own leg or a deceased donor.

Dr. Ed Tingstad, Orthopedic Surgeon at Inland Orthopaedic Surgery and Sports Medicine Clinic, part of Pullman Regional Hospital’s Orthopedic Center of Excellence, is excited to offer a different ACL procedure to patients that doesn’t require a graft: the BEAR Implant.

The BEAR Implant was invented by Dr. Martha Murray, a friend and colleague of Dr. Tingstad. She was actually inspired to pursue her medical degree through her research to develop a graft-less “cure” for an ACL injury. Today Dr. Murray is the Orthopedic Surgeon-in-Chief for Boston Children’s Hospital and a professor at Harvard Medical School.

If you injure your ACL, what happens?

An ACL injury is quite common, especially for athletes. Many people report hearing a pop or feeling a popping sensation when they injure their ACL. After injury, the knee often swells and becomes too painful to bear weight- this is when a patient normally seeks medical attention. “ACL reconstruction surgeries are very common. Without treatment, the ACL will not heal on its own,” explains Dr. Tingstad.

What happens during a BEAR Implant procedure?

The BEAR Implant acts as a bridge to help the ends of the torn ACL heal back together. Through this minimally-invasive procedure, a surgeon injects a small amount of a patient’s blood into the BEAR implant, then inserts it between the torn ends of the ACL. Through this procedure, the body can heal the ACL back together while maintaining the ACL’s original attachments to the femur and tibia bones.

As the ACL heals, the implant is resorbed by the body, usually within eight weeks. “This is an exciting option to help patients get back to sport, normal activities, and daily life. With only one surgical site, patients don’t have to heal multiple areas during recovery,” Dr. Tingstad says.

Who is a good candidate for a BEAR Implant procedure?

The BEAR Implant typically works best for patients over 14 years of age, who are skeletally mature, and have a complete rupture of the ACL. Patients must also have an ACL stump attached to the tibia. In most cases, this procedure must occur within 50 days of the injury for the BEAR Implant to be most effective.

Depending on your injury and medical history, your orthopedic surgeon will determine the best course of action. If you have questions about your eligibility for the BEAR Implant, talk with your surgeon.

What are the benefits of a BEAR Implant procedure?

Unlike typical ACL reconstruction, the BEAR Implant does not require grafts. Meaning there’s only one surgical wound site, not two.

Dr. Tingstad adds that “by retaining normal anatomy and functioning of the knee, patients have less trauma in the knee. This aids in recovery outlooks and returning to activities. We want our patients to not be limited by an injury but be empowered to overcome them.”

What does recovery look like?

Recovery timelines for the BEAR Implant are similar to traditional ACL reconstruction surgery- averaging between seven and nine months. Because the ACL is “regrowing,” mobility is typically more restricted during the first six weeks of recovery; after which, patients then feel more “back to normal” and have better mobility and less restrictions than a surgical graft reconstruction Your surgeon will help determine what physical therapy regimen will work best for you to aid in your recovery.

If you have an ACL injury, Inland Orthopaedic Surgery & Sports Medicine Clinic can help! The walk-in Express Care Clinic is available at Inland Orthopaedic’s Moscow office on Mondays and Thursdays from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and at their Pullman office on Wednesdays from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Fridays 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Skip waiting for a referral and get the care you need now! Visit pullmanregional.org/ orthopedic-center-of-excellence to learn more.

Pullman office: (509) 332-2605

Moscow office: (208) 882-2247

2022 Volunteer of the year Kathy

Kathy Hulbert is the 2022 Volunteer of the Year! Kathy has supported Pullman Regional Hospital since 2016 and has donated more than 2,000 hours. She works closely with the Gift Shop Manager, Malinda Jenkins, purchasing items, merchandising products and she regularly volunteers for shifts in the Gift Shop.

“I was told about the Gift Shop by a previous volunteer, Sandy Spoonemore. She was the buyer, along with Diane Wilson. I thought that it sounded like a fun volunteer opportunity and a great way to give back to the community,” said Kathy. “When Sandy decided to retire her position, she recommended me to take her place at the shop. I interviewed and began my journey Pullman Regional Hospital. I have a background as a Department Store Buyer and am excited to be able to use my experience to help with the Gift Shop.”

Sales from the Gift Shop support Pullman Regional Hospital patients through hospital department grant awards; the shop is run by members of the Pullman Regional Hospital Auxiliary.

Kathy’s favorite part of being an Auxilian is meeting and working with customers, employees and volunteers who come to shop. “We have fun together while building a positive environment to benefit patient care at the hospital,” says Kathy.

Welcome Dr. Fong

Palouse Psychiatry & Behavioral Health is excited to welcome Neuropsychologist, Michelle Fong, PhD, to the team!

Originally from the SeattleTacoma area, Dr. Fong has spent the past 10 years in Oregon and is excited to return to her home state. She is a licensed psychologist and provides comprehensive neuropsychological evaluations. Dr. Fong is determined to help individuals figure out why they might be struggling in school, work, or at home – and, what to do about it. Currently, she is accepting referrals for adults and older adults with cognitive concerns. Lots of different medical conditions can affect a person’s brain and cognitive functioning, ranging from ADHD and anxiety to stroke and dementia. Dr. Fong loves seeing all types of patients but especially enjoys working with older adults worried about memory loss.

Dr. Fong knows coming in for a 3-5 hour appointment can be anxiety-provoking. She wants her patients to know there is no way to “fail” a test and works really hard to make the long visit helpful, fun, and efficient. She is honored to hear patients’ stories and struggles and wants patients to leave with more hope that things will get better and a plan for how to get there.

Dr. Fong has been interested in brain functioning, behavior, and culture since a college practice project. She loves numbers, details, and evidence-based practice, and balancing that with the messiness of emotions and real life. She is lucky this turns out to be a great fit for a career in clinical neuropsychology.

She is new to the Palouse and outside the clinic, she is easily talked into a long walk around town with family and friends and can be occasionally coaxed into hiking. When it is snowy and windy, she likes reading fiction and trying DIY projects around the house

Dr. Fong earned an undergraduate degree from Harvey Mudd College, and a graduate degree from University of Oregon. She completed her internship with Samaritan Health Services, and a Postdoctoral Fellowship at Kaiser Permanente.

July is Na�onal Parks & Recrea�on (P&R) Month and Pullman is celebrating with the theme, “Where Community Grows.” All month long, see highlights of how our community is stronger, more vibrant and more resilient because of P&R. Also, enter the Coloring Contest July 1-31 for all ages! Coloring sheets will be available July 1. Prizes for youth and adults include a quarterly youth PAFC Membership and a $50 P&R gi� cer�ficate. Visit www.pullmanparksandrec.com or check social media for details.

The City of Pullman Water Department presents a summary on the quality of water provided during the past year. Pullman’s drinking water meets or surpasses most federal and state standards.

Find the 2022 Consumer Confidence Report for the City of Pullman Drinking Water system by visi�ng h�ps://bit.ly/2022COPCCR. If you are unable to access the report online, please call 509-338-3243 to receive a copy.

The City of Pullman is currently working on several construc�on, resurfacing, and other projects in upcoming weeks including:

• Bishop Boulevard

• Merman Drive & Westwood Drive

• Olsen Street

For updates on projects impac�ng traffic, please visit the Traffic Control page of the City of Pullman’s website at www.pullman-wa.gov.

1. Lock your vehicle and keep windows rolled up.

2. Remove valuable items from your car. If items cannot be removed, make sure that they are stored out of sight.

3. Report suspicious ac�vity. If you see someone looking in car windows, trying door handles, or scoping out large parking lots, call it the non-emergency dispatch line at (509) 332-2521.

Youth Summer Reading Program con�nues through July 29 with story�mes, live performances, and programs for youth of all ages. Kids can also complete the 10 to Try Summer Reading Challenge to earn a mini Squishmallow or mini succulent and a chance to win a Kindle Paperwhite or set of books.

Adults are invited to par�cipate in Book Bingo! All readers win, but get a Bingo or Blackout for a chance to win more prizes!

Elected Officials

Centre for the Arts at Gladish: Buy-a-seat Campaign

Pullman is blessed to have a number of performing arts organizations but is lacking a truly professional space to perform. This new Centre gives our organizations that performance space and also opens the door for all our organizations to collaborate and grow together. It will be a place for our community to enjoy the arts and where our arts professionals can grow and thrive!

Being able to bring more events to the local community is something that Pullman has wanted for a long time. With the Centre for the Arts we will be able to provide that to the community through music, performances, plays, and many more. This in turn will allow us to provide more community minded programming and events that get our town involved and at The Gladish.

Our team is planning a full remodel of the Richard Domey Auditorium, The Little Theater, and an expansion to The View Room, to create performance spaces for concerts, theatrical productions, and more!

With the remodel of the spaces, the Gladish’s new PAC will partner with our communities arts organizations, like The Washington Idaho Symphony, Palouse Choral Society, and the Community Band of the Palouse, to create a home for our thriving arts community. This is where you, our community come in, and we have an amazing opportunity for you. We are pleased to announce our Buy-a-Seat campaign! The Buy-a-Seat allows you to have your name, or memory/honor of a loved one added to a seat.

Buy-a-Seat is available at www.cftagladish.org, or by following the QR code to the left!

Buy-a-Seat is a tax-deductible donation to a 501(c)(3) non-pro t organization.

Website Phone: 509-332-8081

Email: info@gladishcommunity org

Address: 115 NW State St, Suite 313 Pullman, WA 99163