KCC Medical Guide 2013

Kane County

Health Guide 2013

A Publication of the Kane County Chronicle

Geneva 1705 South St. Phone: 630.208.3980 Dr. Ronald Wolfson specializes in a variety of allergy and asthma testing procedures and treatments for both children and adults. It’s important to recognize when it’s time to refer to an allergist. At the Allergy & Asthma Clinics of Fox Valley, S.C. we strive to treat all conditions while incorporating the most current available treatment modalities and medications.

Aurora

1315 N. Highland Phone: 630.859.3877

Adult and Pediatric Allergies and Asthma

Many people simply become accustomed to living with allergy symptoms, such as constant postnasal drip or a nagging cough. However, the right diagRonald L. Wolfson, M.D. nosis and treatment can reduce Double Board Certified symptoms and in some cases, treatment may help prevent and Carole Wolfson, APN more serious allergic condiAdvance Practice Nurse tions such as asthma or eczema.

Many people suffer year-round with symptoms that come and go and may be misdiagnosed as a sinus infection or cold but actually they may be suffering from allergies.

2

Kane County Chronicle

Index of Advertisers Allergy and Asthma

pg. 2

1705 South St, Geneva (630) 208-3980 allergyasthmafree.com

Greenfields of Geneva

pg. 20

0N801 Friendship Way, Geneva (630) 232-9105 greenfieldsofgeneva.org

CDI

pg. 16

1416 South Randall Rd, Geneva (630) 208-9325 cdirad.com

Delnor Glen

1240 Highland Ave., Aurora (630) 208-3801 kanehealth.com

pg. 5

975 North 5th Ave, St. Charles (630) 443-8220 delnorglen.com

Ecker Center

Northwest Podiatry

pg. 3

234 Randall Rd., South Elgin (847) 608-9494 nwpodiatry.com

pg. 14

1845 Grandstand Place, Elgin (847) 695-0484 eckercenter.org

Female Health Care

Kane County Health Dept pg. 8, 15, 17, 18

Rush Copley

pg. 7

2000 Ogden Ave., Aurora (630) 978-6200 rushcopley.com

pg. 9

Vein and Laser Center

725 W. Fabyan Pkwy, Batavia (630) 406-1184 femalehealthcare.com

1435 N. Randall Rd, Suite 207, Elgin (847) 717-3265 freetoloveyourlegs.com

Fox Valley Orthopedics/Ortho First pg. 11

Wellness Concepts

2535 Soderquist Ct., Geneva (630) 938-4004 fvortho.com/orthofirst

2075 Foxfield Rd #102, St. Charles (630) 587-4338 wellnessconceptsllc.com

pg. 13

pg. 8

FOOT AND ANKLE CARE

DR. GREGORY C. BRYNICZKA*

DR. J. ALLEN CHVALA, JR.*

NICHOLAS E. VOGELSANG

FREE CONSULTATIONS ALWAYS AVAILABLE DR. ADAM W. BRYNICZKA*

DR. RICHARD R. LEITZEN

NORTHWEST PODIATRY CENTER, LTD —HELPING YOUR FEET LAST A LIFETIME— Personalized care by Board Certified Surgeons of the Foot and Ankle SERVING THE COMMUNITY FOR OVER 35 YEARS. *Diplomat, American Board of Podiatric Surgery • *Fellow, American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons

Aurora DeKalb Niles South Elgin Streamwood Wheaton 630.585.8087 815.756.9491 847.823.5510 847.608.9494 630.830.2155 630.668.8277

www.kcchronicle.com

3

Delnor Glen distinguished as a residentcentered community Delnor Glen Senior Living has been recognized as one of the world’s most residentcentered communities by Planetree, Inc. Following a rigorous review of Delnor Glen’s culture, including programs, policies, practices and the environment of care, the community has been officially designated a “Planetree Resident-Centered Community,” distinguishing it as among those organizations worldwide doing the most advanced work in patient/resident-centered care. It is the first and only long term care community in the United States, and one of only 46 healthcare organizations worldwide to have received the Planetree Designation since the program’s launch in 2007.

Planetree Designation is the only award that recognizes excellence in personcenteredness across the continuum of care, essentially signaling to healthcare consumers that Delnor Glen Senior Living is a community where providers partner with residents and families, and where resident comfort, dignity, empowerment and well-being are prioritized with providing top-quality clinical care.

Planetree — an international not-forprofit organization— has been at the forefront of this movement to transform healthcare from the perspective of the patient/resident for 35 years, taking the lead in defining what is meant by “patient-/resident-centered care.”

As such, the organization is uniquely qualified to offer this formal recognition distinguishing healthcare organizations committed to providing resident-centered and holistic care.

The program is coordinated by Planetree; however all designation determinations are made by an independent designation committee whose membership includes national health care experts with experience with 4

Kane County Chronicle

the American Hospital Association, Institute for Healthcare Improvement, the American Health Care Association and The Joint Commission. Committee members also include CEOs from previously designated organizations.

The criteria that Delnor Glen had to satisfy to achieve designation reflect what residents, family members and healthcare professionals in hundreds of focus groups held around the world say matters most to them during a healthcare experience. This qualitative data aligns with the growing evidencebase for patient-/resident-centered care, and establishes the Planetree Designation as a concrete framework for defining and measuring excellence in resident-centeredness.

More than 60 specific criteria address components of a resident-centered healthcare experience, including resident-provider interactions, access to information, family involvement, the physical environment, food and nutrition, spirituality, arts and entertainment, and integrative therapies. In addition, the criteria focus on how the community is supporting its staff, opportunities for staff, residents and families to have a voice in the way care is delivered, and the ways that the organizagtion is reaching beyond its walls to care for its community.

As part of the designation process, Planetree representatives visited Delnor Glen in July to speak directly with residents, family members, organization leadership, staff, providers, and members of the Planetree Steering Team. A series of focus groups were held in which participants candidly shared their Continued on page 15

First in the Nation to receive Planetree designation for excellence in resident-centered care.

• Short Term /Respite Stays

A member of Cadence-Community Health System 975 North Fifth Avenue, St. Charles, IL

Call 630-443-8220 www.kcchronicle.com

5

Rush-Copley Convenient Care Open Every Day in Sugar Grove

If you need immediate attention, you’ll feel better knowing Rush-Copley Convenient Care offers easy access to health services right in Sugar Grove. From bee stings to back pain, board-certified primary care physicians, X-ray and laboratory services are all right onsite, making it easy to receive treatment for everyday illnesses and injuries.

Rush-Copley Convenient Care is the only healthcare resource open every day in Sugar Grove and can be a great way to access care when you need it. In addition to treating care for non-life threatening medical concerns, Convenient Care also offers sports physicals and flu shots. Unlike some retail clinics, flu shots are available for children ages three

6

Kane County Chronicle

years and older making Convenient Care a great choice to help keep families healthier during cold and flu season.

Our no appointment necessary care is staffed by doctors who are trained in family medicine they are friendly and eager to help you get the care you need when you need it. Please visit our website, rushcopley.com/ convenient care to learn more about the types of medical problems we treat as well as insurance plans we accept.

Convenient Care is open every day. Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. and weekends from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. We’re located at 472 N. Route 47 in Sugar Grove. Call us at 630-466-6000.

✧

CLICK FOR

CONVENIENT

CARE The Only Walk-in Healthcare Center Open Every Day in Sugar Grove

Flu? Sore throat? Twisted ankle? When you or your little one can’t wait to see a doctor, click for Convenient Care at rushcopley.com/convenientcare. You’ll find the Sugar Grove location staffed by board-certified physicians who are ready to treat minor illnesses and injuries with expertise and the personal approach that makes you feel right at home. Plus, with X-ray capabilities and lab services right on-site, Convenient Care is the perfect destination for quick care and fast answers.

Need convenience? Click rushcopley.com/convenientcare or call 630-466-6000.

✧ Convenient Care Meets Your Needs Monday — Friday 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.

Saturday — Sunday 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Rush-Copley Convenient Care 472 N. Route 47 Sugar Grove IL 60554 630-466-6000

www.kcchronicle.com

7

Stopping tobacco use is a big step In the United States, tobacco use is responsible for about one in five deaths annually, or about 443,000 deaths per year. An estimated 49,000 of these smoking-related deaths are the result of secondhand smoke exposure.

The American Cancer Society provides some suggestions to help you quit successfully:

n Talk to your health care provider about medical options available n Write down your reasons for ending your tobacco addiction and keep them around for extra motivation

n Throw away all your cigarettes and ashtrays n Tell your family, friends and coworkers about your decision to quit and recover n Have alternatives to smoking available, such as cinnamon sticks, carrots or peppermints

n Stay busy (join a class, exercise, read) n Avoid situations that always trigger an urge to use tobacco products You can find more resources for quitting by visiting kanehealth.com/tobacco_program.htm

Provided by the Kane County Health Dept. kanehealth.com Find us on

Weighing Conventional Medicine against

Lynn Young, EFT/Stress Management

Ami Atkocaitis, CCT Thermography

Wendy Reed, Allergy

Martin Plotkin, MD, MD(H)

Holistic Health Care?

Wellness Concepts is a holistic clinic dedicated to reclaiming and optimizing patient outcomes through alternative and medical services by assessing the whole human being. Wellness Concepts was founded by Martin Plotkin, M.D., who holds over 45 years of both practice and faculty experience as an orthopaedic surgeon.

Karen Connolly, CertiďŹ ed Nutritionist

2075 FoxďŹ eld Rd, Ste 102, St. Charles, IL 60174

630.587.4338 www.wellnessconceptsllc.com 8

Kane County Chronicle

Wellness Concepts helps patients heal in natural ways with holistic medicine

Wellness Concepts - office of Martin Plotkin, MD, and Robin Plotkin, RN, invites you to see firsthand how you and your loved ones may no longer have to live with side effects from ineffective treatments, distressing allergy symptoms, orthopaedic challenges or unsuccessful diets—no matter what other doctors have told you.

Dr. Plotkin can help you heal in natural ways —often bypassing traditional treatments and medications that cause harmful complications and side-effects.

Dr. Plotkin has over 45 years of both practice and faculty experience as an orthopaedic surgeon. He transitioned into practicing holistic medicine in 2002 through a string of synchronicities that guided him to how he treats his patients today, observing the first commandment of medical practice: “Above All, Do No Harm.”

Back in 2000, Dr. Plotkin began to have experiences challenging his traditional medi-

cal training and practices. His wife, Robin, a registered nurse, had failed back surgery.

Nine months later, with her problems still unresolved, Dr. Plotkin was given a specialized alternative treatment to help her. Within five days of this new treatment, Robin was 98 percent better. At first he was skeptical, so he began to try this same method on patients in his orthopaedic practice and was amazed to see instantaneous results.

“I saw fractures healing twice as fast— wounds closing in a third of the time expected, without complications or infections. It took me awhile, but I became a believer through all the things I was seeing. I was learning what it meant to do no harm,” Dr. Plotkin said.

By 2004, Dr. Plotkin had received full training and boarding in areas such as complex homeopathy, functional medicine and orthopaedic injection of natural materials, and had moved into practicing holistic medicine full time—and he’s never looked back.

Quality Female Healthcare is now in Batavia!

Female Healthcare, Ltd. • Obstetrics • Gynecology • Ultrasound

• Diagnosis & Treatment of Urinary Stress Incontinence • da Vinci Robotic Surgery

725 Fabyan Pkwy, Batavia • www.femalehealthcare.com

Call 630.845.3366 for an appointment! www.kcchronicle.com

9

ket Expenses Increase

to keep hey need aring outplanning will keep un.

Savvy Consumers Comparing Health Care Costs As Out-of-Pocket Comparing Health Care Costs As Out-o Expenses Increase

Savvy ConS

e

have s in reased the ood Health yees’ wages mericans national edical 8 percent.

Sharon Schreiber

CEO, BrandWeavers Strategic Health Consultancy

Now, more than ever before, people “For example, most of our patients boomers and want to stay active well into their typically pay 30 to 50 percent less moving as lon Now, more than ever before, people services, and about 50 percent less for surgical golden years. But in the midst of for diagnostic services, and about 50 to find ways to want staysystem active into their procedures,” adds O’Brien.

“But most imporAccording to theto Ambulatory Surgery well healthcare reforms theygolden face a percent less for surgical procedures, ” of-pocket ded Center Association and Ambulatory Academy years. But in the midst of out healthcare system addstantly, the quality of care is exceptional.” for elective pr dilemma: How to seek the highest O’Brien.

“But most importantly, Surgery Foundation, 92 percent e growth quality of care without incurring caredecades, is exceptional. ” of patients surveyed report feeling ous reforms they face a dilemma: How to seek outthe quality Forof three ASCs have offeredthem healthie satisfied after choosing an ASC for costs. ding: unmanageable the highest quality of care without incurring patients a choice for surgical services; namely, healthcare.

For three decades, ASCs have offered Many Americ s unmanageable costs. a high-quality, cost-effective alternative to become hav“I believe that ASCs offer the patientTo reconcile this problem, consumers patients a choice for surgical services; more centered, cost-effective, high quality To reconcile problem, consumers arenamely, ing surgery in the hospital. are beginning tothis comparison-shop a high-quality, cost-effective light of the ch highlyof care essential in today’s healthcare for healthcare services, the way toishaving surgeryMost in the environment, “ says O’Brien. beginning to comparison-shop forthey healthcare alternative How this possible?

ASCs are out-of-pocket y ratios would for any other they hospital. struggling eco ed care services, the way they service would for anyneed other independently owned and focus on a number “Patients deserve choices when it or desire. reason. Accor hesia comes to surgery,” says Deborah Lee service they need or desire. ofisspecialized surgical procedures.

By specialHow this possible?

Most ASCs Care Cost Inst Crook, CEO at Valley Ambulatory nd Surgery Center, in St. Charles.

However, figuring cost care are independently izing on a narrowowned range of services, However, figuring outout thethe cost of of care and focus an ASC grew by just 3 “Who wouldn’t choose to save money and out-of-pocket expenses not of specialized andservices, out-of-pocket is is not as as easy it on aisnumber able to maximize patientsurgical benefits – and in a 2011 and 20 for quality positive outcomes, expenses and superior patient care?” • easy it sounds. procedures. specializing on a average for ou sounds. practice’sBy efficiency and productivity – while at narrow range of services, an ASC expenditures i The Today Show recently aired a segthe same time minimizing cost.

The Today Show recently aired a is able to maximize patient benefits ment on the to deliver a baby.

These savings – in part – are passed along segment on costs the costs to deliver a NBC – and a practice’s efficiency and Comparison-s baby.

NBC News contacted a number productivity – while at the News contacted a number of hospitals at to the consumer.

The end same result time is a higher surgical proce of hospitals at different times, and pricing minimizing cost. satisfaction as well as savings. substantial sav different times, and received varying level of patient gery centers (ASCs) treat patients faster and cost up to received varying pricing quotes from than surgery performed at a hospital. quotes from the very same hospitals.

Small business owners – who report the very same hospitals.

These savings – in part – are passed According to t s, ayment Advisory Commission reports that ASCs patient’s In an effort to help consumers underhealth insurance costsThe as the critical of Orthopaedi along to the consumer. endmost result lower.

In an what effortthe to cost helpwill consumers higher level patient of ASCs is due stand be prior to surgery, is a problem theyof face todaysatisfaction – also benefit when maging centers provide services for 30 to 60 percent less what the cost (ASCs) will beand prior as well as savings. hospital imaging facility. understand ambulatory surgery centers employees patronize ASCs. Cost of care benefits to the to surgery, ambulatory surgery centers t care centers are typically 5 to 7 times less expensive independent physician groups across the reductions enable them to keep their overall • Technol he ER. Small business owners – who report (ASCs) and independent physician country across are making it easier for healthcare costs low.as the most groups the country arepatients makingto gethealth insurance costs • Positive aneasier estimate to receiving services such as critical problem In the lastthey few face years,today Medicare and it for prior patients to get an estimate – • Specializ also benefit when employees patronize prior to receiving services such as an an MRI or elective surgery in order to improve commercial insurance payers have substantrained n ASCs. Cost of care reductions enable MRI or elective surgery in order to quality of life. tially increased the portion patients must • Higher s improve quality of life. them to keep their overall healthcare “If they do a little research, prospective costs pay for healthcare services, which sometimes resulting low.

ective lt in nts.

CTs To help You save

orthopedic patients will discover the “If they do surgery a little research, prospective orthopedic patients willof patient fact that the surgery ASC provides quality discover the fact that the ASC provides care and substantial cost savings over a hosquality of patient care and substantial pital savings setting,”over says aMary O’Brien, CEO” at Fox cost hospital setting, ValleyMary Orthopedics inCEO Geneva. says O’Brien, at Fox Valley Orthopedics in Geneva.

“For example, most of our patients typically pay 30 to 50 percent less for diagnostic

• interferes with their ability to budget for In the last few years, Medicare andboomers procedures.

So while aging baby • commercial insurance payers have and gen-Xers want to keep moving as long substantially increased the portion as possible, theyfor need to find ways to cope • patients must pay healthcare with soaring pocketinterferes deductibles when services, which outofsometimes withplanning their ability to budget for for elective procedures that will keep• • procedures.

So while aging them healthier in the longbaby run.

Less tim

Lower in readmis

Conveni scheduli Shorter

Cost sav

Consumer Tips for Comparison-shopping

10

•

Some ASCs now post their prices on their websites. If prices aren’t posted, call in and ask for specifics.

•

•

Medicare data is available to everyone. Ask the administrator at the ASC of your choice to show you how much your out-of-pocket expenses will be in advance of any procedure in order to make an informed decision.

•

•

Ask your physician where he/she has hospital privileges.

•

Information is power...ask the hospital in your area to provide you with all costs for any anticipated procedure.

Kane County Chronicle

•

•

res

• Shorter wait times • Cost savings

ng

and

faCTs To help You save •

Ambulatory surgery centers (ASCs) treat patients faster and cost up to 50 percent less than surgery performed at a hospital.

•

The Medicare Payment Advisory Commission reports that ASCs patient’s share of cost is lower.

•

Freestanding imaging centers provide services for 30 to 60 percent less per visit than a hospital imaging facility.

•

Specialty urgent care centers are typically 5 to 7 times less expensive than going to the ER.

any

or

and superior patient care?” •

Many American consumers have become more cost-conscious in light of the challenges of increased out-of-pocket expenses and the struggling economy...with good reason. According to recent Health Care Cost Institute – employees’ wages grew by just 3 percent for Americans in 2011 and 2012, while the national average for out-of-pocket medical expenditures increased by 4.8 percent.

Comparison-shopping for elective surgical procedures can result in substantial savings for patients.

According to the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, the growth of ASCs is due to the numerous benefits to the patient including: • Technological advances • Positive outcomes • Specialized care from highly trained nursing staff • Higher staff-to-patient ratios resulting in personalized care • Less time under anesthesia • Lower infection rates and readmissions • Convenient access and scheduling • Shorter wait times • Cost savings According to the Ambulatory Surgery Center Association and Ambulatory Surgery Foundation, 92 percent of patients surveyed report feeling satisfied after choosing an ASC for healthcare.

“I believe that ASCs offer the patientcentered, cost-effective, high quality of care essential in today’s healthcare environment, “ says O’Brien. “Patients deserve choices when it comes to surgery,” says Deborah Lee Crook, CEO at Valley Ambulatory Surgery Center, in St. Charles. “Who wouldn’t choose to save money for quality services, positive outcomes, and superior patient care?”

www.kcchronicle.com

11

You Do Not Need To Suffer With Varicose Veins Anymore!

Be Free From Pain...

Free To Love Your Legs Again Nearly 70% of all women and 30% of all men will develop some form of venous disorder in their lifetime due to blood circulation issues. The result of these blood circulation problems, called venous insufficiency, is varicose veins that can now be treated using a laser.

Some people have leg veins that are twisted rope-like bulges this may cause aching, burning and embarrassment. But there is help. State-of-the-art treatments have been developed that replace the age-old method (and not so effective method) of “stripping” a vein.

Varicose veins, besides causing pain, fatigue and swelling—sometimes cause more serious complications. Until recently, treating these veins was a surgical procedure that required a hospital stay, a painful recovery and possible scarring from incisions and postoperative infections. Laser technology has changed all of that.

Lasers are widely accepted as the optimal solution for achieving surgery-like results with less risk, less down time, and less expense. Vein and Laser Center of Elgin Cardiac Surgery offers the revolutionary, FDA-cleared D940 laser to eliminate varicose veins. This laser system is ideal for safe and effective treatments, and is minimally-invasive. It is performed in the office in less than an hour and is covered by most insurance carriers. Patients can return to work the next day with little discomfort.

Because venous disorders are a serious health threat, only the most qualified

12

Kane County Chronicle

surgeon should be deciding your treatment and proceeding with your vein healthcare.

Although many individuals have vein procedures to attain an improved leg appearance —it is also the health of your legs that matters to the Vein and Laser Center of Elgin Cardiac Surgery.

Dr. C. Steimle of Elgin Cardiac Surgery is a Board Certified surgeon with over 20 years of vascular experience. She understands venous disorders are a health issue.

All vein procedures are performed by Dr. Steimle which sets us apart from other offices that use surgical technicians to perform vein procedures. In addition to Dr. Steimle, M.D., F.A.C.S., our qualified team consists of a registered vascular ultrasound technologist to diagnose your legs, a certified surgical assistant, and an ACLS certified nurse.

In addition, Vein and Laser Center of Elgin Cardiac Surgery attained recognition for its commitment to providing high level patient care and quality testing for the diagnosis of vascular disease by the Intersocietal Accreditation Commission. (IAC) Your veins are treated by a Vascular Surgeon here!

There are many physicians that have begun to offer laser vein treatments. However, treatments at the Vein and Laser Center of Elgin Cardiac Surgery are Performed by board certified cardiothoracic and vascular surgeon Cynthia Steimle, M.D. We are members of the American College of Phlebology. This makes the Vein and Laser Center of Elgin Cardiac Surgery qualified to treat all venous disorders from spider veins to severe leg ulcers.

Varicose are no longer treated like they were way-back-when.

The Vein and Laser Center of Elgin Cardiac Surgery uses a state-of-the-art laser to get you back on your feet quickly and painlessly.

Before

After

“I Lovethatmyvaricoseveintreatmentwascoveredbyinsurance!”

Covered by Medicare!

Most procedures are covered by insurance. Se Habla Espanol

We offer the most advanced treatment in: ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■

Varicose Veins (large ropey veins) Reticular Veins (bluish surface veins) Spider Veins (reddish surface veins) Symptoms of Venous insufficiency including swelling, leg pain or ulcers BBL (Broadband Light) skin treatments Laser Hair Reduction Skin Tightening

The prestigious IAC certification has not been attained by other area vein centers and is considered the standard of excellence in the industry.

© Copyright 2013 Vein & Laser Center of Elgin Cardiac Surgery

www.kcchronicle.com

13

The Ecker Center – Your Community Mental Health Center The Ecker Center for Mental Health is a 58 year old nonprofit community mental health center for adults and some youth with moderate to severe mental illness. Its service area is the northern two thirds of Kane County and Hanover and Barrington Townships, with offices in Elgin, St. Charles and Streamwood.

The Ecker Center provides 24/7/365 psychiatric emergency services for people of all ages at Advocate Sherman Hospital and is on call to Delnor and Presence St. Joseph Hospital emergency rooms to evaluate individuals that may need hospitalization at the Elgin Mental Health Center. Its adult services include a crisis residential program, psychia-

try and nursing services, case management, problem oriented short term individual and group therapy, psychosocial rehabilitation, and residential options with and without onsite supervision. The Ecker Center is customer focused – services can be provided in Spanish as well as other languages, there are evening hour appointments, and payment options include Medicare, Medicaid, and private insurance, as well as a graduated fee scale for the uninsured. An independent pharmacy and primary healthcare provided by VNA Healthcare are offered at the Elgin location. The Ecker Center meets the highest standards and is accredited by The Joint Commission.

Ecker Center for Mental Health We Are Your Community Mental Health Center Providing: • 24/7 Crisis Intervention • Psychiatry • Group & Individual Therapy • Rehabilitation • Case Management • Residential Treatment In case of psychiatric emergency, call

847-888-2211 (adults & children)

www.eckercenter.org 14

Kane County Chronicle

For all other services (adults only), call Intake at 847-695-0484

Don’t let food make you sick!

Be Food Safe!

Every year, one in six Americans gets sick from dangerous foodborne bacteria. The estimated 128,000 who suffer serious illness requiring hospitalization each year are those most vulnerable to infections -- young children, the elderly, and other people with compromised immune systems. You can help protect yourself and your family by following these simple, but important, safe food handling procedures.

CLEAN

l Wash your hands, cutting boards & counter tops with soap & water l Always wash fruits & vegetables before eating

SEPARATE

l Keep raw meats & eggs away from other foods like fruits, vegetables & bread l Wash hands between working with raw meat & other foods

COOK

l Make sure your food is fully cooked to proper temperatures l Keep hot food at 140°F or above

CHILL

l Put food in the refrigerator right away l Keep your refrigerator below 41°F

THROW AWAY

l Don’t keep food that is old, damaged, or not properly refrigerated. If in doubt – throw it out!

You can take the Food Safe Families Action Pledge by visiting www.fightbac.org.

Provided by the Kane County Health Dept. kanehealth.com Find us on

Delnor Glen Continued from page 4 experiences at Delnor Glen. Consistent with the Planetree Designation criteria, the site visit team found that residents feel listened to, respected, and well-cared for, and that staff feels informed, empowered, and appropriately recognized.

“Planetree is very pleased to award Delnor Glen Senior Living with this designation,” said Susan Frampton, Ph.D., Planetree’s President. “This achievement is a true testament to the staff and leadership at this special

organization, each of whom has played a crucial role in integrating the philosophy of resident-centered care into their day-to-day work. The team at Delnor Glen is not only making a difference for individual residents and family members, but is also effectively transforming the culture of your organization, and fundamentally altering what this community expects when they come to a long term care community.”

www.kcchronicle.com

15

What are the signs of a heart attack?

For both women and men, the most common sign of a heart attack is: n Pain or discomfort in the center of the chest. The pain or discomfort can be mild or strong. It can last more than a few minutes, or it can go away and come back.

Other common signs of a heart attack include: n Pain or discomfort in one or both arms, back, neck, jaw, or stomach n Shortness of breath (feeling like you can’t get enough air). The shortness of breath often occurs before or along with the chest pain or discomfort. n Nausea (feeling sick to your stomach) or vomiting n Feeling faint or woozy n Breaking out in a cold sweat Women are more likely than men to have these other common signs of a heart attack, particularly shortness of breath, nausea or vomiting, and pain in the back, neck, or jaw.

Women are also more likely to have less common signs of a heart attack, including: l Heartburn l Loss of appetite l Feeling tired or weak l Coughing l Heart flutters Sometimes the signs of a heart attack happen suddenly, but they can also develop slowly, over hours, days, and even weeks before a heart attack occurs.

The more heart attack signs that you have, the more likely it is that you are having a heart attack. Also, if you’ve already had a heart attack, your symptoms may not be the same for another one. Even if you’re not sure you’re having a heart attack, you should still have it checked out.

If you think you, or someone else, may be having a heart attack, wait no more than a few minutes—five at most—before calling 911.

Choose CDI for Value in Imaging Center for Diagnostic Imaging (CDI) offers the highest quality imaging services at the right price, including: High-field MRI, CT, Ultrasound,

X-ray & Bone Density exams

Digital Mammograms, including

Screening & Diagnostic

Imaging services that are

30-50% less expensive than other providers Same-day and next-day appointments tments available

Tell your doctor to send you to CDI.

Call: 636.208.9325

GENEVA: Located in Randall Square Shopping Center 16

Kane County Chronicle

Vaccine: Still the best way to help protect against the flu Vaccination is the single-best way to prevent getting sick and spreading the virus to your family and friends and co-workers. Everyone 6 months of age and older should get vaccinated this year; however, it is especially important for those at high risk of serious flu complications. Those high-risk groups include young children, pregnant women, people with chronic health conditions like asthma, diabetes or heart and lung disease and people 65 years and older. In addition, vaccination is important for health care workers and people who live with or care for high risk people to keep from spreading flu to high risk people.

Children younger than 6 months are at high risk of serious flu illness, but are too young to be vaccinated. People who care for them should be vaccinated instead. It is also recommended that children younger than 9 receive two doses the first year they get vaccinated. In subsequent years, they need only one dose. This is because many children younger than 9 have not been infected with influenza viruses previously and they need a booster dose in order to have a good immune response.

The flu shots this year will protect against the H1N1 virus and two others. And, with 160 to 165 million doses expected to be produced this year, there should be enough for everybody who wants one.

Autumn is the best time to be vaccinated, before people start getting sick. The vaccine takes two weeks to be fully immunized, and the protection will last long enough to get all the way through flu season.

Remember the 3 C’s to prevent the spread of the flu: n Cover your cough n Clean your hands n Contain the disease by staying home if you’re sick.

If you would like general information about the flu you can visit the Health Department’s Stop the Flu Page at www.kanehealth. com/flu.htm or the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention at www.flu.gov/.

Provided by the Kane County Health Dept. kanehealth.com Find us on

www.kcchronicle.com

17

Join the campaign!

We Are Making Kane County Fit for Kids!

Children born today may live shorter, less healthy lives than their parents and grandparents! Why? Too many of our children are overweight.

Across Kane County, one out of five kids is overweight. In some Kane communities that number is an even more alarming one out of three! As these children get older, they are more likely to be stricken with diabetes, bone and joint problems, heart disease, and other serious health problems.

Please join our campaign for longer, healthier lives for all of our children by Making Kane County Fit for Kids!

Together, we will create parks, streets, neighborhoods and schools that are Fit for Kids — making them safe and ready for kids to walk, bike, and play.

We will provide meals and snacks that are Fit for Kids by increasing access to fresh fruits and vegetables for all families through school and child care programs, farmers’ markets, community gardens, and neighborhood groceries — making healthy foods an available and desirable option.

We will make our homes, faith communities, schools, recreation programs and workplaces Fit for Kids by promoting a culture of health and wellness every day, in ways both big and small.

To find out more information, please visit the Fit for Kids Web site at www.makingkanefitforkids.org

Provided by the Kane County Health Dept. kanehealth.com Find us on

18

Kane County Chronicle

What are Allergies?

What we commonly call allergies are actually groups of common symptoms affecting the upper respiratory tract such as runny nose, nasal congestion, sniffles, post nasal drip, itchy nose, sneezing and so on and other symptoms affecting the lower respiratory tract such as cough, throat clearing, shortness of breath, chest tightness, frequent bronchitis, wheezing and such. These symptoms may manifest themselves in any combination and have various triggers.

Sometimes they are present all year round and sometimes only in certain seasons and are respectively referred to as either “perennial” or “seasonal”. They affect about 1520% of the population and cause more time lost from work and school than any other reason. Billions of dollars are spent yearly on over-the-counter remedies and prescription drugs that infrequently work as advertised.

Despite research and increased awareness of these conditions little more is known now about their cause or treatment than 30 years ago. In fact, the incidence of nasal allergies and allergic asthma has been rising for the past 15-20 years and in some circumstances, so has the death rate from allergic asthma!

Now allergy symptoms have been shown to be the result of the action of the allergic antibodies on inhaled antigens toward which they are aimed at and the subsequent chronic and acute inflammation in the respiratory epithelium or mucous membranes is the result. The allergic inflamma-

tion causes the mucous membranes to be “hyper-reactive” to stimuli that rarely cause problems for non-allergic individuals. Many non-allergenic stimuli such as, temperature swings, air pressure changes, chemicals, strong odors, emotions, infections and so on adversely affect allergic individuals.

It is important to note that most patients with such symptoms can be successfully treated despite any problems identifying specific offending agents. All adults and children with chronic debilitating symptoms affecting their upper and/or lower respiratory systems, eyes, skin, sinuses, throat, nose or ears or having reactions to foods, medications or workplace chemicals should seek out a Board Certified Allergy Asthma and Immunology specialist for professional allergy testing and subsequent diagnosis and treatment! Almost all allergy problems will yeild to some sort of diagnosis and treatment that your Board Certified Allergy Specialist is best prepared to furnish to you!

The Allergy & Asthma Clinics of Fox Valley, S.C. have treated over 20,000 satisfied patients since 1974 by our double board certified physician, Dr. Ronald Wolfson, and Advance Practice Nurse, Carole Wolfson. They offer extensive treatment options to children and adults and they are currently accepting new patients.

They have two locations: 1315 N. Highland, Aurora, 630-859-3877; 1705 South Street, Geneva, 630-208-3980.

www.kcchronicle.com

19

A better option for assisted living, now at GreenFields of Geneva.

There’s no better time to consider GreenFields assisted living, memory support and skilled nursing. We’re the area’s newest option, featuring compassionate care with immediate move-in available and reduced pricing options. Act soon for best apartment selection and pricing. Just imagine the peace of mind that comes from knowing one choice takes care of everything, no matter what level of care is needed, even if health needs change.

To help your loved one have the social lifestyle they deserve, with the assurance of the safety, security and affordability they need, call 630.994.5161 today.

Named Best Retirement Community in Chicagoland

0N801 Friendship Way Geneva, Illinois 60134 www.GreenFieldsofGeneva.org/Options

As a continuing care retirement community, we provide independent living, as well as immediate move-in to assisted living, memory support and skilled nursing.

20

Kane County Chronicle