HEALTH NEWS AND TIPS FROM SABAN COMMUNITY CLINIC | VOLUME 1, ISSUE 2
HEALTH & WELLNESS
Preparing for Your Doctor’s Appointment Whether you’re scheduling your yearly check-up or coming in with a new concern, preparing ahead can make a big difference. Primary care visits are designed to provide you with the right care at the right time, and being clear about your goals will help you and your provider make the most of your time together. Think of your appointment in three parts: before, during, and after. Here’s how to stay focused at each stage.
Before Your Visit Know your goal What do you want to get out of your appointment? Share this when you call to schedule your appointment. Be specific Instead of just saying “check-up,” mention the main reason: high blood pressure, medication questions, or a possible infection. Details help your care team plan better. Update your records If your health, allergies, address, or insurance has changed, let your care team know before your visit. Story continued on next page
Preparing for Your Doctor’s Appointment (Continued from previous page) During Your Visit
After Your Visit
• For check-ups: Keep your visit focused on your overall health, and ask only a few additional questions about your most important concerns.
• Check your After-Visit Summary (AVS) available on MyChart or as a paper print-out. It includes vital signs, test results, medications, and provider instructions.
• For new concerns: Focus on the main reason for your visit so your provider can give it the attention it deserves. If you’re not sure whether another issue is related, ask your provider if it should be addressed today or scheduled for another visit. • Time management: Your provider may not be able to cover everything in one appointment. Don’t hesitate to schedule a follow-up if you need more time.
• Look for missing info. If something doesn’t match what you remember, ask right away. • Follow up on results. If you don’t see results in MyChart or receive a call within 5–7 days, reach out to the office. Take charge of your health! Schedule an appointment today by calling (323) 653-1990, or visit sabancommunityclinic.org.
• Review your medications: Request refills directly with your provider or schedule future visits as needed. • Confirm next steps. Before leaving, repeat back what you need to do and when you will return.
AROUND THE CLINIC
Flu Season is Here. Stay Protected! As fall settles in, there’s a cozy feeling in the air. Scarves come out and pumpkin spice lattes suddenly appear everywhere. But along with these comforts also comes the possibility of sneezing, sniffling, and coughing due to flu season. Fear not! One of the best ways you can take care of yourself (and those around you) is by getting your annual flu vaccine. Why should you get the flu vaccine? The flu vaccine helps your body build immunity to fight off the virus. Even if you still catch the flu, being vaccinated reduces the severity of symptoms, shortens recovery time, symptoms time and lowers the risk of hospitalization. hospitalization
Who should get the flu vaccine? The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that everyone six months and older receive a flu vaccine each year. It is especially important for: • Seniors (age 65+) • Pregnant people • Young children • People with chronic conditions such as asthma, diabetes, or heart disease • Caregivers and essential workers who may be exposed to large groups Protect yourself this season with a flu shot! Call (323) 653-1990 to schedule an appointment or online at sabancommunityclinic.org.
CLINIC NEWS
Patients Get the Facts on Upcoming Medi-Cal Changes This summer, we hosted “Medi-Cal Changes and the Federal Big Beautiful Bill,” an online webinar led by Chief Strategy and Programs Officer, Jackie Provost. Nearly 100 staff, patients and community members attended to learn how upcoming mandates from both the state and federal levels impact patient coverage, and when these changes are expected to take effect. This event is part of our ongoing commitment to keep patients informed and supported as healthcare policy evolves.
Stay Informed, Get Involved! Policy changes can impact your care, but you don’t have to navigate them alone. Join our Health Center Advocacy Group to stay up to date on policy changes that may affect your coverage and access to care.
HEALTH & WELLNESS
Boost Your Immunity This Season Did you know that boosting your immune system can be simple, and even delicious, when you make small, intentional choices? Here are a few immune-boosting food ideas to keep you and your family strong and healthy in the months ahead.
Food that packs a punch Nature provides the nutrients we need to stay resilient during the colder months. A few colorful additions to your plate can go a long way in protecting your health: Citrus fruits: Oranges, tangerines, and clementines bring a burst of vitamin C to brighten your day and help your body fight off germs. Leafy greens: Kale, spinach, and collards are packed with vitamins and minerals to keep your immune system strong. Sweet potatoes: These vibrant root vegetables are rich in vitamin A, supporting your body’s defenses while adding a naturally sweet, cozy flavor to meals.
Sip Something Soothing There’s nothing quite like wrapping your hands around a warm mug on a chilly afternoon. An immune-boosting tea made with ginger, turmeric, and citrus is a simple way to warm up while giving your body an extra layer of protection. Scan the QR code for the immune boosting tea recipe!
AROUND THE CLINIC
Get affordable health insurance through Covered California.
CLINIC NEWS
Welcome Dr. Minassian! We’re thrilled to welcome Dr. Siuneh Minassian back to Saban Community Clinic! Originally from Iran, Dr. Minassian moved to the United States in 2009 to pursue her lifelong dream of becoming a dentist. In 2019, she graduated from UCLA School of Dentistry and completed a general practice residency treating patients with disabilities. Dr. Minassian first joined Saban as a general dentist before leaving in 2023 to complete a two-year pediatric dentistry residency at Virginia Commonwealth University. Now returning as our pediatric dentist, she’s excited to care for our youngest patients and continue serving families in our community.
Join us at one of our Covered California Open Enrollment Workshops, where you’ll work one-onone with our certified enrollment counselors. Our specialists will guide you through the process, from comparing plans to enrolling in the option that best fits your needs and budget. Let us help you find the coverage that’s right for you.
Workshop Dates: November 1st, December 6th, January 10th, January 24th Location: Melrose Family Health Center 5205 Melrose Ave. Los Angeles, CA 90038 Scan the QR code to register online.
You can find Dr. Minassian at: Virgil Family Health Center on Mondays and Wednesdays. And at the Melrose Family Health Center on Tuesdays, Fridays and every second Saturday. When she’s not in the clinic, Dr. Minassian enjoys hiking, playing tennis, doing pottery, and spending time with family and friends.
AROUND THE CLINIC
Fill Your Prescriptions the Easy Way! Fill your prescriptions on-site at our Beverly or Hollywood locations.
We're Hiring! Looking for a new job? Check out our open positions today! https://bit.ly/sabanjobs
To request an appointment, log in to MyChart:
Or, choose free home delivery and have them delivered straight to your door. Have questions? Contact the pharmacy team at (323) 653-1990 (select option 1 for pharmacy.)
Our locations: Beverly Health Center 8405 Beverly Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90048 S. Mark Taper Foundation Health Center 6043 Hollywood Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90028
Additionally, you can call us at 323.653.1990 or chat with us at sabancommunityclinic.org
The Wallis Annenberg Children & Family Health Center 5205 Melrose Ave., Los Angeles, CA 90038 Virgil Family Health Center 137 N. Virgil Ave., Los Angeles, CA 90004
@sabanclinic
Satellite Clinic at The Center (Homeless Services only) 6636 Selma Ave., Los Angeles, CA 90028 sabancommunityclinic.org