Ahwatukee Medical 2017 - 2018

medical ahwatukee/chandler

FREE 2017-2018

advice • fitness • health care

Using

Beauty

for wellness

He sees aesthetics as path to healthier habits Pineapple Health Page 3

DR. KEVIN CHAN

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INSIDE THIS ISSUE

PUBLISHER Steve Strickbine EDITOR Paul Maryniak

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WRITERS Leag Gilchrest Leah Merrall Coty Dolores Miranda Coleen Sparks Ralph Zubiate ADVERTISING DIRECTOR Kent Johnson

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ADVERTISING SALES Terry Davenport Karen Mays Laura Meehan Jane Meyer DESIGN AND ART Veronica Thurman

1620 Fountainhead Pkwy.

Tempe, AZ 85282 480-898-6500

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Chiropractic center director says diet can help tame fibromyalgia.

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ER patients are finding Uber a less expensive way to reach the hospital, but it often is not a good substitute for an ambulance.

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Hospital chaplains try to ease the pain that doctors can’t reach.

Dignity Health team gives woman new lease on life after lung scare.

Scoliosis should be on the checklist for your child’s medical evaluation.

Hearing aids can help prevent or reduce dementia, studies find.

Blue Cross program is helping local doctors to better connect with their patients and improve treatments and results.

Not all schools are equal when it comes to the availability of an in-house nurse.

A survivor offers tips on how to identify and help victims of domestic violence.

Ahwatukee/Chandler Medical is sponsored by 2

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AHWATUKEE MEDICAL 2017-2018

ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. NO PART OF THIS PUBLICATION MAY BE REPRINTED OR REPRODUCED WITHOUT THE PUBLISHER’S PERMISSION. STATEMENTS AND OPINIONS PRINTED IN THIS MAGAZINE ARE THOSE OF THE CONTRIBUTORS AND NOT NECESSARILY THOSE OF TIMES PUBLICATIONS OR ITS ADVERTISERS.

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Pineapple Health-Rejenesis sees beauty as a path to health

BY PAUL MARYNIAK EDITOR

T

he way Dr. Kevin Chan saw it, if a computer company can name itself after an apple, there was no reason not to name his clinic “after an even healthier fruit.”

So, he renamed his practice Pineapple Health-Rejenesis when he moved into a newly purchased building at 12010 S. Warner-Elliot Loop, Ahwatukee.

Now he’s expanding his practice to include aesthetics, convinced that beauty can help lead patients to develop healthier habits and improve their health.

“We have an integrative holistic approach to aesthetic medicine via hormone optimization, nutrition supplementation and stress management,” explained Chan.

“We’ve learned that we can use aesthetic medicine as a leverage to encourage our patients to engage in healthier behavior and improve their overall health, thus achieving the true integration of health and beauty.”

Chan said that after a patient has Botox treatments, body sculpting or any of the other aesthetic services he offers, the lightbulb will go on if it hasn’t already.

“They see themselves as more beautiful and think, ‘Maybe now I should work on my lifestyle and be healthier,” he explained, noting his other beauty-related services include fillers, women’s sexual rejuvenation and other anti-aging treatments.

Chan took over Foothills Family Medicine, Ahwatukee’s oldest medical practice, in 2008, two years after he joined it after moving from New York City.

He renamed the practice in an effort to put patients more at ease and help them avoid what he calls “white coat syndrome.”

“Healthcare has become so corporate and so rigid, so insurance-driven, that I think we have lost the human touch. We need to be more friendly and more personal. So many patients get scared about going to a doctor’s office. By making it friendlier and more animated, it takes away some of the anxiety of visiting a doctor,” he said.

Chan graduated from the New York College of Osteopathic Medicine in 1999 and completed his fellowship with the Mount Sinai School of Medicine. He is a certified Meta-Medicine Health Coach and Diplomate of the American Osteopathic Board of Family Physicians, American Board of Integrative Holistic Medicine and American Board of Anti-Aging Regenerative Medicine His practice integrates ancient Chinese treatments with both traditional and modern medicine.

And while he tries to cure patients’ ills like any other doctor, he is mainly concerned with preventing sickness – and especially making sure they don’t become prone to heart attacks and control their stress levels.

Chan calls himself a “preventionist” when it comes to dealing with conditions that can lead to a heart attack. He also specializes in lipidology, a fairly new medical subspecialty.

“When you are preventing heart disease, you look at cholesterol and other factors – behavior can drive cholesterol. Stress can increase cholesterol. Most people focus only on cholesterol.

The primary problem for heart disease is inflammation. If the high cholesterol is in a very inflamed environment – that contributes to heart disease,” he explained, adding: “Most people think it’s a plumbing problem, but it is a volcanic eruption issue. You may have a clot in your arteries, but if that part of your body is inflamed, that plaque can rupture like a volcano. That actually causes heart attacks in younger people.”

Nearly one-third of Americans over the age of 20 has high cholesterol, he said.

That’s where lipidology and Chan’s other efforts to control hormones and stress come into play.

As people get older, they become less resilient to stress and their hormone level decreases. So, Chan focuses on optimizing hormones, calling it “one way to alleviate the propensity for being anxious as you get older.”

He uses a neuro-feedback machine, which he said is “a very popular device that will help patients rewire their brain and reorganize their brain function to handle stress better. And it’s covered by most major insurance companies.”

He also performs advanced blood tests and uses special ultrasound devices to look for plaque in the arteries.

Lipids, which include cholesterol, are essential parts of human cells. Studying and treating them involves a “complex multidisciplinary branch of medicine,” Chan said.

Besides stress and diminishing hormone levels, poor diet and lack of exercise also contribute to the inflammation that can trigger heart attacks, Chan said.

“Of course, I do what every doctor does – make sure my patients have a healthy lifestyle,” he said, calling his neuro-feedback work “acupuncture without needles.”

“As we all grow older, we begin to be more effective in many areas of our lives,” Chan added. “But our health is going in the opposite direction. I want to realign patients’ health direction with the rest of their life.” n Information: 480-961-2366, pineapplehealth.org.

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Diet can help people suffering from fibromyalgia

BY DR. CAMERON CALL GUEST WRITER

F

ibromyalgia is one of those conditions that has stumped some of the most brilliant minds in medicine for years.

The actual mechanism behind where fibromyalgia comes from has been something that hasn’t been able to be explained, and it still is one of the most heavily researched areas of modern-day healthcare.

While we do know that the nervous system plays a major role in the diagnosis and treatment of fibromyalgia, there has also been a dietary component that has been proven to help diagnosed individuals in overcoming some of the chronic pain and stiffness associated with the condition.

A diet high in magnesium has been shown to help in mediating and bridging the gap between muscular tightness and atrophy associated with fibromyalgia.

Because magnesium taken in high doses has been shown to be a heavy diuretic and leads to frequent bowel movements if taken in excess, getting enough through diet is an effective option to finding improvement in symptoms.

Great sources of magnesium in the

diet are: whole grains, legumes, and leafy greens, as well as seeds from wine grapes and bananas.

Another great thing to consider is ginger, which has powerful anti-inflammatory properties, in a tea, a bath or ingested in soup.

Also, a daily cup of willow bark tea has been shown to be as effective as a lowdose aspirin for inflammation, without the side effects of stomach sensitivity, and kidney or liver issues.

This has been a remedy used by the Chinese traditional medicine folks for decades, and has been shown to be helpful in reducing symptoms.

However, if you are one of those who has exhausted many of these options, and more, and have not seen the results you are looking for, the nerve system could be the missing link to finding you resolution.

At the Specific Chiropractic Centers, we help individuals with fibromyalgia receive results when nothing else has worked.

If you are a candidate for our care, healing can become a reality. n -Dr. Cameron Call is clinic director of The Specific Chiropractic Centers in Ahwatukee. Information: cameron@thespecific.com or thespecific.com.

Dr. Cameron Call

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Dignity Health team helps woman with lung condition

BY SARA BAIRD GUEST WRITER

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former reporter and news editor from the New Jersey area, Pat Milich was widowed at a young age with three children.

She spent more than 15 years as a public information director of a large school district and later formed her own public information consulting business.

After retiring, Milich relocated to Arizona in 2012 to be closer to her daughter and two of her three grandchildren.

Nearly three years ago, Milich noticed she would grow short of breath while running around huffing and puffing, playing the big bad wolf with her little pigs.

“I lost both of my parents to heart disease, so I thought I was having heart problems and decided it was time to visit my primary care doctor,” recalls Milich, 72.

“I was prescribed some more acid reflux medication because my heartburn seemed to be worsening, and sent for a chest X-ray. I never expected what came next.”

In early 2015, Milich was referred to a local pulmonologist who diagnosed her with a rare and often deadly lung condition called idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis. IPF is typically characterized by scarring of the lungs. It has no known cause and progressively gets worse over time.

“I went home in a trance. I thought it was a death sentence,” says Milich. “I began to research, and everything I read said it is terminal within three to five years. I told the pulmonologist that I wanted a second opinion from the best, and I was pleasantly see DIGNITY

HEALTH page 6

(Special to Times Publications)

Thanks to the Norton Thoracic Institute at St. Joseph’s Hospital and Medical Center, Pat Milich could enjoy Disneyland with her grandchildren.

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2017-2018 AHWATUKEE MEDICAL

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AHWATUKEE MEDICAL 2017-2018

DIGNITY HEALTH from page 5 surprised when I was referred to St. Joseph’s.”

On Oct. 22, 2015, Milich met with Dr. Tanmay Panchabhai, a pulmonologist at the Norton Thoracic Institute at St. Joseph’s Hospital and Medical Center who is also the associate director of its Pulmonary Fibrosis Center. Tests at Norton confirmed that the lung scarring was progressive and a minimally invasive VATS biopsy was recommended to make an accurate diagnosis.

“Pulmonary fibrosis is a term used to group many disorders over a broad spectrum that have varying prognosis. When the pattern of pulmonary fibrosis is not “typical” for IPF, a biopsy can help decide the etiology and course of treatment,” says Panchabhai.

“Ms. Milich was in denial when I first met her. She said she would think about getting the biopsy, but I could tell she was hesitant. So, I suggested we also discuss her health with her kids. If we could determine the cause of the scarring, we could determine alternative treatment options and give her an accurate prognosis.”

After learning of their mother’s condition, Milich’s son and two daughters encouraged her to get the biopsy.

Still anxious, she was invited by the Norton team to attend a lung disease support group, which helped her decide to move forward with the procedure.

“I am so thankful Dr. Panchabhai, his nurse practitioner, Rebekah Edwards, DNP and their entire team, who are so knowledgeable and persistent,” says Milich.

“Dr. Panchabhai was up to date on all the cutting-edge research linking GERD to various forms of lung disease, including IPF. I never imagined that my heartburn could be the culprit in the first place.”

Gastroesophageal reflux disease, commonly referred to as GERD, is a growing health problem in the United States.

It causes frequent acid reflux, or heartburn, that occurs when acid or other stomach contents back up into the esophagus. It is estimated that more than 60 million Americans experience heartburn at least once a month and 15 million suffer from it daily.

Milich met with Dr. Michael Smith, a thoracic surgeon and the surgical director of the Lung Transplant Program at Norton, home to the nation’s busiest lung transplant program and a multidisciplinary lung and esophageal team.

Smith ordered another battery of tests confirming that Milich had a severe case of GERD that needed surgical intervention.

In early 2016, Smith performed a procedure to fix the GERD as well as a VATS lung biopsy.

“No surgery is fun, really. But, I only spent two days in the hospital and was eating normal food within a few weeks, and I was completely off the acid reflux medication,” says Milich. “My color had gone from gray back to rosy and I was even breathing easier.”

Based on her clinical history and the biopsy results, Panchabhai and his team confirmed the diagnosis of interstitial lung disease as a result of GERD as they had initially suspected.

This condition has a much better prognosis.

While the surgery cannot reverse the existing scarring, Milich’s lung function has stabilized and has not declined since the surgery.

“I am feeling great,” says Milich. “Because of the expertise, incredible kindness and tenacity of the doctors at Norton Thoracic Institute, I have a new lease on life and am able to play with my grandchildren again.” n -For more information and to learn more about St. Joseph’s pulmonary and thoracic disease programs, visit us at dignityhealth.org/arizona/locations/stjosephs/services/lung-disease-thoracic-disorders or call 602-406-9100.

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2017-2018 AHWATUKEE MEDICAL

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Scoliosis: Have your children been checked?

BY DR. JEN WINTON GUEST WRITER

S

coliosis has been around as long as humans have walked upright. When looking at your back, it should be a straight line.

A curved spine (scoliosis) has been depicted in cave drawings, found on the Egyptians mummies and documented as far back as Hippocrates.

Even so, this spinal condition still plagues our society in numbers over 4 million. In fact, scoliosis is the most common spinal deformity in school-age children today and develops between 7 and 13 years old.

So, the question begs, should you have your children evaluated? If so, where do you even start?

If you are concerned that your child might have scoliosis, there are a few symptoms to be on the lookout for. In children or teens, the most obvious symptoms you will notice is are the best diagnostic tool their posture is not symmetand we can measure the Cobb rical in their back, shoulders, Angle to determine a treatshoulder blades and hips. ment protocol for chiropracThere are worse probtic care. lems to look for such as; Exercises, stretches, physdifficulty breathing, poor ical therapy and yoga are also sleep, pain in the neck, recommended. The earlier back, legs, headaches and that scoliosis is diagnosed for continuous muscle spasm. your children, the more effecIf not caught early enough, tive their results will be. the scoliotic curve could If you remember getting continue to progress to the a scoliosis screening in grade point of surgery. school when you were younger, Early detection is imyou may wonder why they arportant! en’t given in schools anymore.

The most common forms Dr. Jen Winton First, the screenings can of treatment include unbe expensive. Because of this, most schools comfortable bracing and surgery. However, if you want to stop scoliosis from progress- stopped offering them or gave school nursing with a non-invasive method, chiropractic es the extra duties. With heavy case work, most school nurses have their hands full so treatment can be extremely effective. the screenings got dropped altogether.

In our clinic, we begin with special tests Looking up the Kyrene School District to assess the spine and curvature. X-rays

Family Handbook for 2017, it states that “scoliosis screening is available upon request.”

I would like to propose that we be proactive with our children’s growing spines.

Having your child screened for scoliosis yearly through the ages of 7 and 14 will not hurt anything.

And, if we can diagnose it early enough, we can provide the treatment and therapy needed for your child to be active and painfree.

Our office, Active Lifestyle Clinic in Ahwatukee, provides gentle and effective chiropractic care for children of any age. We provide adjustments to babies, school-age children, young athletes and, of course, adults. It is so rewarding to start kids out with a healthy spine and preventive care. n -Dr. Jen Winton, DC, is with Active Lifestyle Clinic. Information: ActiveLifestyleClinic.com or 480-704-1050

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Monday – Friday: 8:00 am to 6:00 pm Saturday: 8:00 am to 1:00 pm

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Studies show high correlation between hearing loss and dementia

BY DR. TINA JESSEE GUEST WRITER

W

hich comes first: hearing loss or dementia?

We all have seen a family member over time withdraw, exhibit emotional changes and get confused.

Have you wondered what was really causing it?

Studies now confirm that there is a high correlation between hearing loss and dementia. These longitudinal studies followed hundreds of people for 12-18 years. These results confirmed that the worse the initial hearing was, the more likely the person was to develop dementia.

With all the talk of consumers self-diagnosing and purchasing hearing aids over the counter, this news is unsettling. People with even moderate hearing loss had triple the risk of dementia.

What happens when people put off treating their hearing loss or worse yet, purchase something over the counter, throws it in a drawer and then waits even longer to reach out to an audiologist for help?

“This is a valid concern. The onset of dementia is three to five years sooner with those who have a moderate hearing loss and five to seven years sooner for those who have more.

We also see isolation, withdrawal, anger and a much higher incidence of depression. We don’t want people delaying their care because of a bad experience from a product they bought at a big box store. Custom-fit hearing aids are very expensive but typically yield very different results.

The average price of the hearing aids I sell is $6,500.

This price includes the customized hearing aids, two to three-year warranties and, most importantly, services and follow-up care.

With Bluetooth and computerized technology our hearing aids are changing people’s lives and yielding very different Dr. Tina Jessee outcomes from the horror stories of the past; the value people are finding exceeds the cost of the devices and that is what is important.

Better hearing benefits everyone. Hearing loss has a huge impact on quality of life.

A recent study published in the journal of JAMA Otolaryngology-Head & Neck Surgery found that after treating a group of 94 people 65-85 years old with hearing aids, more than 80 percent of those with the lowest cognitive scores showed significant improvement after just one year.

Good hearing aids are very expensive but can be worth it.

Make sure you get your hearing evaluated by a licensed Audiologist, especially if you are experiencing cognitive issues.

The good news is this evaluation is covered by most insurance companies and better hearing could be an appointment away. n -Dr. Tina Jessee is with Good Sound Audiology. Information: 480-497-0780 or at goodsoundaudiology.com.

SPONSORED CONTENT

October is National Orthodontic Health Month Orthodontic Health Month was created to increase public awareness of the positive impact that orthodontic care can have on long-term dental health and to bring attention to the fact that patients generally are never too young or too old for treatment. Orthodontists receive an additional two to Janet L. Jordan, DDS; Ahwatukee Orthodontics three years of specialized edActive AAO Member ucation beyond dental school to learn the proper way to align and straighten teeth as well as to specialize in the growth and development of teeth and jaws. Only those with this education may call themselves “Orthodontists” and only Orthodontists may be members of the American Association of Orthodontics (AAO). Although the AAO recommends evaluation by age 7, there are some circumstances that warrant an earlier visit. Intervening at the correct time, based on your child’s individual growth pattern, can prevent more difficult treatment later on. Be on the lookout for orthodontic warning signs that can be found in children, teens, and adults: • Early or late loss of baby teeth or missing permanent teeth • Difficulty chewing or biting into food • Mouth breathing due to allergies or enlarged tonsils and adenoids during developmental years • Finger habits during development years • Crowded, misplaced, or blocked out teeth • Crossbite, overbite, and protruding teeth • Inability to comfortably close lips • Speech problems • Teeth that don’t come together • Grinding or clenching of teeth • Clicking of jaw joints and TMJ problems If you notice any of these symptoms, we encourage you to schedule an exam with an Orthodontist.

Orthodontists specialize in the latest in orthodontic care for patients 7 – 70 and beyond!

For questions or to arrange a complimentary evaluation by your neighborhood specialist in Orthodontics, please call Ahwatukee Orthodontics the office of Janet Jordan, DDS.

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480.598.3659 www.ahwatukeeorthodontics.com

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Blue Cross program helps doctors connect with patients more closely • 31 percent fewer hospital admissions from issues that can be avoided or hat happens when health insurmanaged by getting a quick appointment ance providers, physicians and with their doctor, such as a simple pneuindividuals all work together to monia and urinary tract infections; manage healthcare?

• 23 percent fewer ER visits due to Patients save individuals time and better education in self-management of money while getting healthy. conditions; Just ask Dr. Cynthia Andrews, an Ah• An 8 percent greater reliance over watukee family practitioner for more than other doctors on generic drugs, helping 20 years who is board-certified in family people save money on prescriptions; practice and holistic medicine.

• Stronger patient-doctor relationShe is one of 2,300 Arizona doctors ships and same-day appointments with participating in Blue Cross Blue Shield of longer office hours; Arizona’s Patient Centered Medical Home, • And a deepening of the doctor’s ina “value-based care model” for people sights into patients’ health conditions to with common chronic diseases that inhelp tailor care and treatment plans. centivizes physicians for improving health Dr. Cynthia Andrews, visiting with a patient, says a “Providing high-quality patient care outcomes and not for the number of pa- new Blue Cross program helps her better underis multifaceted and requires everyone intients they treat. volved to think differently. At Blue Cross stand and treat patients with six different chronic This means a patient is supported by conditions.

Blue Shield of Arizona, we are committed their primary care physician, the pharmato finding approaches that enhance the cy and a Blue Cross case manager to enpatient experience while reducing the sure they can see the doctor quickly, are completing their follow-up cost of healthcare,” said Chief Medical Officer Dr. Vishu Jhaveri. appointments, taking medication properly and understand their “The benefits of the PCMH model are clear.” care path and management plan.

A physician since 1986 whose husband, Dr. Mark Brachfield, is “It provides a network of support,” Andrews said. “This helps a retired Tempe obstetrician/gynecologist, Andrew said the Blue patients with complex conditions stay on track with their follow up Cross program “helps doctors focus on preventing health probappointments and medications, and helps them navigate through lems from occurring, managing chronic conditions – like diabetes or the medical system to achieve their personal health goals.” asthma – and improving the total well-being of patients.”

Over a two-year period, participating physicians saw: “It boils down to really listening to the patients and working directly with them to improve their health,” Andrews explained.

“For me the biggest difference is time,” she added, stating that the Blue Cross program “gives me the flexibility to spend extra time with patients and build relationships with them. It also helps me share a common goal with my patients of providing convenient, cost effective, quality health care.”

“It is rewarding for me to see the meaningful improvement in Proudly Serving The Community For Over 21 Years the health of my patients,” she continued.

COME SEE MY DAD! The program targets six common chronic diseases – asthma, • Comprehensive Eye • Optomap Retinal Scan diabetes, congestive heart failure, chronic obstructive pulmonary Exams servicing Infants (An alternative to eye disorder (COPD), hypertension and coronary artery disease. to Geriatrics dilation) “Of the chronic disease states targeted, diabetes is the most • Specializing in hard to • Proud VSP (Vision challenging and requires dedicated patient involvement to help imfit contact lens patients Service Plan), Eyemed, prove,” Andrews said, adding: Avesis, and Aetna Vision “It is gratifying to see patients learn about the disease process • Orthokeratology 1, Blue Cross Blue and how to manage their diabetes. Time spent on patient education (Lenses worn overnight Shield, Medicare, Cigna to correct your daytime pays off when I see objective results with weight loss, improved Providers. vision). cholesterol and blood sugar, controlled blood pressure and more • Accepting New energy. In some cases, I have been able to avoid medication be• Over 1200 frames Apple Page The SpokesPug patients in stock from cause a motivated diabetic made lifestyle changes to take charge Fashionably Affordable • Proud supporter of Lost Our Home of their diabetes.” to High End Designers Pet Rescue “The idea of spending more time with patients, offering total wellness and healthcare to truly make a difference in the lives of patients was something I was already passionate about,” Andrews said, noting the Blue Cross program “has allowed me to continue Dr. Mark Dr. Alma to provide the best care for my patients and spend more time with Page Yamamoto them.”

“These types of programs are the future of transforming our healthcare system. More and more, we’ll see doctors, hospitals and insurers working together on innovative programs to change Call today to schedule your appointment. healthcare for the better,” Andrews said.

Andrews isn’t the only Ahwatukee physician involved in the Blue Cross program. n 15215 South 48th Street -Dr. Elysa Shaw, a 10-year Ahwatukee resident and physician, Building 8 Suite 180, Phoenix, AZ 85044 said the program helps her use of empathy, communication and www.arizonasvision.com knowledge to educate patients and involve them in their treatUse it or lose it flexible spending accounts? Make sure your ment decisions. appointment is scheduled prior to the end of the year.

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480-706-3937

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AHWATUKEE MEDICAL 2017-2018

Managing pain with understanding and information

BY DR. CARY SCHNITZER GUEST WRITER

Other treatments may include medication that is available over-the-counter and by prescription, or physical and aquatic therapy. t’s time to increase public awareness about the effects of pain Certain advanced cases may require surgery or other medand educate people about pain manageical procedures such as specialized joint inment options. jections. The goal is to find the most effecPain is divided into two categories: tive and efficient ways to control, reduce and acute and chronic. eliminate the pain – sometimes this may be a Acute pain rarely develops into pain that combination of a variety of treatments. lasts forever. If you don’t understand what is Here are tips for managing pain: happening to you and your body as a result of Talk to your doctor to learn about the that pain, it may generate fear and anxiety, causes of the pain you are experiencing. The which may lead to other conditions such as more you know the better you can manage insomnia. Lingering pain, despite treatment, your pain along with your doctor’s help. may be an indication there still is something Learn about treatment options that may wrong. be right for you, and find the most effective Chronic pain is never planned, but when and efficient way to treat that pain. it occurs, the two best things for the healing In some cases, such as back problems, process are good information and a smart movement may be the best medicine. plan. Nearly 100 million Americans experiIf your treatment includes using medicaence some type of chronic pain. tions, either over-the-counter or prescripThat’s more than those who have diabetion, talk to your doctor or pharmacist to tes, heart disease and cancer combined. For better understand the medication you are many, including those with arthritis, headtaking. aches and work-related injuries, living with Opioid medications may be prescribed for pain can be debilitating and adversely affect you in some circumstances; however, opioid Dr. Cary Schnitzer everyday life. overuse and addiction are serious issues and There are numerous treatment options can affect anyone. Be aware of the risks and for acute and chronic pain. Some pains may be treated with tra- benefits of taking these types of medicines. n ditional fast and simple remedies such as ice for a knee sprain or -Dr. Cary Schnitzer, M.D., MMM, is chief medical officer for a wrist splint for carpal tunnel syndrome.

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Company promises lower healthcare costs with its online service

BY LEAH GILCHREST TIMES PUBLICATIONS STAFF

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new service claims it can provide healthcare at a lower cost to Valley residents.

SingleCare is a new app and online company that offers patients healthcare up to 80 percent less than typical providers and covers a range of services not typically covered by insurance companies.

“SingleCare is creating a marketplace for consumers to get healthcare services.”

Simon Brown, a SingleCare representative, said.

Membership is free and requires a first and last name, date of birth and email address. The member will receive a membership card that they use when they receive service through SingleCare.

The price for the prescription or service already has SingleCare’s fee added in. “It’s a really unique model.” Brown said, “It’s free to members and it’s free to providers.”

The service primarily helps reduce the cost of prescriptions as well as out-of-pocket visits for dental and vision. It also offers its members the opportunity to video-call doctors.

“We don’t believe fundamentally people should have to pay to have access to healthcare services.” Brown said.

Members can still use benefits from any health insurance they may already have. For members who already have health insurance, the service can significantly reduce costs their insurance does not cover.

When a member uses SingleCare, the transaction is completed through the app or online website. The member enter their credit card information into the app prior to making an appointment through SingleCare to pay for the service.

SingleCare then pays the provider at a previously agreed-upon rate. The app eliminates any price negotiations or discrepancies.

When the transaction through SingleCare is complete, the member gets an emailed receipt.

SingleCare has partnered with 35,000 pharmacies, including Walmart, Target, Rite Aid, Walgreens, CVS and Fry’s.

The service began in 2014 and includes Philadelphia, San Antonio, Charlotte and Richmond.

An average of 20,000 new members sign up for the service every week, Brown said.

At this time, SingleCare is primarily focusing its service on the Phoenix and Philadelphia areas. As it develops the app and the website, it will likely expand across the country, Brown said. n Information: singlecare.com

Uber or an ambulance? Know how to get to the hospital

BY LEAH MERRALL TIMES PUBLICATIONS STAFF

M

ost people call ride-sharing services like Uber for rides to the airport, but a growing number of people are treating ride-shares like ambulances.

Millions of Americans take ambulances to the hospital each year, but with the unpredictability of costs and destinations, many people are turning to a more affordable and predictable service: Uber.

At a public meeting, someone referred to American Medical Response, an ambulance company that provides services in 42 states, as a “big-box Uber,” a nickname that ruffled some feathers and even sparked a discussion at the latest International Association of Fire Chiefs EMS Conference.

Taking an ambulance is expensive, ranging anywhere from $500 to $2,000 depending on where you live. On the other hand, ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft give price estimates right off the bat and are a fraction of the cost.

Riders can also choose which hospital they’re transported to.

However, the two services are not interchangeable.

“It actually has become a topic of discussion in the industry, and I think that there’s a big difference between a ride-share company and an ambulance when it comes to an emergency,” said John Karolzak, government and public affairs liaison for AMR in Phoenix. “We have highly trained professionals that can immediately identify medical emergencies and take immediate action to treat patients while en route to the hospital.”

The growing tendency for people to take a ride-sharing service to the ER rather than an ambulance is concerning to professionals in the industry because of what it can mean for everyone involved.

Often, people who think they’re experiencing a minor medical inconvenience can actually have symptoms masking a much larger problem that can manifest itself suddenly on the way to the hospital, according to Dr. Joseph Winchell, an emergency room physician in the East Valley.

Most Uber and Lyft drivers aren’t trained for medical emergencies, so there’s the potential for both drivers and riders to be put in compromising situations.

Winchell said he’s seen drivers run into the ER because their rider is unconscious in the backseat. Other times, drivers call 911 from the side of the highway

because their rider lost consciousness halfway through the drive.

Many Uber drivers have shared their stories on a discussion board, with experiences ranging anywhere from drivers who have taken bleeding riders to the hospital and charged them for the damage, or drivers who have canceled their ride and called 911 for the people they’ve gone to pick up.

There is not a required protocol for Uber drivers in this situation, however.

“We’re grateful our service has helped people get to where they’re going when they need it the most,” said an Uber spokesperson in an email. “However, it’s important to note that Uber is not a substitute for law enforcement or medical professionals. In the event of

patient transport from a non-emergency rideshare service to ambulance transport through a single call or online portal.

In cities like Washington, D.C., and Boston, this system is more common than it is in the greater Phoenix area, although Winchell said he hopes a system like that could be put in place here soon.

Many patients don’t have transportation options to get to a hospital for non-emergency services, so they’ll call 911 for a ride, which also dispatches the fire department. That means those crews get taken away from public service.

“When it’s used appropriately, I would say it’s a good alternative,” Winchell said. “When it’s non-emergency and non-medical issues, it frees up the ambulances to respond to true emergencies.”

any medical emergency, we encourage people to call 911.”

Winchell suggests that drivers should trust their instincts upon picking up a rider. On the other hand, AMR’s Karolzak said he thinks an ambulance is always the safer bet.

“EMS can get medicine to you faster than you can get to medicine,” he said.

Cases like cardiac arrest, chest pain, trauma, heart attack, stroke, burns, shortness of breath, injuries, fractures and childbirth should warrant a person to access the 911 system, Karolzak added.

On the other hand, ride-sharing services can be used for discharge from hospital, a ride to the doctor for scheduled appointments and trips to the pharmacy to pick up prescriptions, he said.

AMR actually has a partnership with Lyft to provide non-emergency medical transportation services.

According to Business Wire, the partnership uses a “one call” service so hospitals and caregivers can arrange any

According to the National Emergency Number Association, an estimated 240 million calls are made to 911 in the U.S. each year. The continuous development of a relationship between emergency services and ride-sharing services can help ensure the best option for people with medical issues moving forward, and make sure resources are being properly utilized.

In the meantime, professionals agree that it’s best to err on the side of caution.

“We need to continue to educate our elected officials, all the key stakeholders and the communities that we serve about when’s the right time to use an ambulance and when’s the right time to use an Uber or a ride‑share service,” Karolzak said, adding: “When an ambulance is referred to as a ‘big-box Uber,’ maybe you need to step back and make sure that all of your stakeholders understand your capabilities.” n 2017-2018 AHWATUKEE MEDICAL

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Simple measures can help protect children from severe colds

BY DR. JUDITH D. PENDLETON GUEST WRITER

While we may not like it, these common childhood illnesses are necessary for children to develop their own immune systems. ith kids in school, colds and illnesses Certain over-the-counter products when used are inevitable. The fall especially ushappropriately can mitigate these symptoms but ers in pink eye, strep throat, stomach they do not “cure” the infections. Also, most of flu and upper respiratory infections. these products have not been tested in young chilIt seems as though our children stay sick from dren for safety and effectiveness.

September through May. And while there is no There are simple and effective non-medicinal magic solution to keep them well, simple meainterventions to try. Nasal saline and suction for insures can sometimes decrease the frequency and fants, steamy showers and humidifiers, changes in severity of most infections. diet for vomiting and diarrhea, and room-temperaMost parents already have a battle plan in ture baths and dressing lightly for fevers are all explace by promoting good nutrition, healthy sleep amples of old-fashioned steps to take to keep your habits and discussion of good hygiene with little little one more comfortable. ones.

A few words about fever.

Most childhood illnesses are caused by virusFevers do make your child look more ill and es. Some, like strep throat, are bacterial infeccause a lot of fear and anxiety for parents. Fever, tions and require antibiotics to eradicate. Infants, however, sounds the alarm to wake up your child’s toddlers and preschool children average seven to immune system to begin to fight the infection. TemDr. Judith D. Pendleton eight colds per year. peratures vary with age, activity and time of day.

Elementary school children average five to Fevers typically are greater than 100.4 degrees recsix colds annually and teenagers (and adults) average approximately tally or greater than 99.0 degrees orally. four colds a year. Remember these are averages, meaning some chilTaking your child’s temperature can sometimes be more confusdren get sick even more often (and some less!). ing than helpful depending on what type of thermometer is used.

“Colds” refer to respiratory illnesses, causing runny noses or naFor an excellent resource for comparison and instruction for sal congestion, coughing, fever, interrupted sleep, fatigue and loss proper use of different types of thermometers, refer to the Ameriof appetite for example. Considered separately, stomach ailments can Academy of Pediatrics website, healthychildren.org, and review (gastroenteritis) can occur two to three times annually. the article, “How to Take a Child’s Temperature.” Parents also can find other helpful information about fevers and illnesses in children on this site.

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“While we may not like it, these common childhood illnesses are necessary for children to develop their own immune systems.”

A very ill child may have a low-grade fever but be pale, poorly responsive or very irritable. Sometimes toddlers with very high fevers will run around and continue to play.

Finally, medications for fevers do not always bring temperatures back to normal, but they should help decrease the severity and discomfort. Having said all this, if you are concerned about your child’s fever or symptoms, you should contact your pediatrician or seek care at a pediatric urgent care or emergency room.

Though children may look small and fragile, they are stronger than you think.

They encounter and successfully ward off over a multitude of germs every day. But no matter what you do, your child is going to get sick. Remember, though, as you care for them, they are going through the needed steps to be able to fight future illnesses.

I hope this information helps you and your children as we move into winter. Cheer up! We’ll all be a little healthier (but a little hotter) in the spring! n -The author is founder of Pendleton Pediatrics, 1445 W. Chandler Blvd., Building B, Chandler, which is part of Phoenix Children’s Care Network – Arizona’s only pediatric network and includes half of all independent pediatricians and 80 percent of all pediatric subspecialists in greater Phoenix. Information: 480-385-5055.

Hospital chaplains see the pain doctors can’t treat

BY RALPH ZUBIATE TIMES PUBLICATIONS STAFF

T

he image of a hospital chaplain is pretty standard.

A man in a collared shirt slips into the patient’s room as machines beep and hiss. A stole is kissed and placed over the back of the neck. Oil is applied to the patient’s forehead, and a prayer is muttered. Maybe a squeeze of a hand and a word whispered in an ear. Then, the chaplain quietly slips away.

“That’s Hollywood,” said Mario Valadez, manager of spiritual care with Dignity Health in the East Valley. “This is not Hollywood.”

Chaplains do provide spiritual care, but the reality can be more raw than that. They deal with illness, death, uncertainty, doubt and fear. Often, chaplains become counselors of a sort, a sounding board for patients and families at a critical time in their lives.

“Chaplains are trained to help any person.

Those of faith, or no faith or little faith,” said Valadez, who oversees 10 chaplains at both (Times Publications Staff) Chandler Regional and Mercy Gilbert medical Dignity Health Chaplain Mario Valadez says hospital chaplains help patients regardless of centers.

Chaplains are primarily Protestant or Cath- their religious beliefs. olic, but are trained in different traditions, such as Muslim, Jewish, Baha’i, Buddhist, Jeand say, ‘We need time to digest this information.’You have to hovah’s Witness, Native American, Mormon, even atheist. step in for the family,” Valadez said.

“There’s no agenda of me sharing my faith with you,” Valadez All chaplains have to deal with stressed patients and families. said. “I have to find out what you have as values.”

Yanez said, “They want me to share scripture and prayer, Chaplains are from all walks of life. All have gone through especially when they’re withdrawing care. If they’re fearful, you seminary and some are certified in clinical pastoral education.

“The primary reason one comes in is to help and be com- talk about their fear. They often have fear, anxiety, doubt. They want peace with God. More than 50 percent of the people I talk passionate to those in pain and suffering,” said David Yanez, chaplain at Banner Baywood Medical Center and Banner Heart to are not attending church. They have kind of been forgotten – I Hospital in Mesa. “You have to be compassionate and giving. If hate to stay that.”

Valadez said, “We don’t go talk to the family, we go listen to not, you shouldn’t be here. If you’re not sympathetic (to their them.” belief system), you can at least listen.

That said, chaplains don’t always know whether they’ve For some hospital patients, it’s a time to confront the big helped people in the long run. questions.

“It’s hard to tell the impact you’ve had,” Valadez said. “I hope “They’re lying in bed,” Valadez said, “and it may be the very first time they ask, ‘Why, God?’ That’s when we get a phone call.” I’ve blessed people. Once, I was shopping at Target, and somebody looked at me, and she started crying. She said, ‘Chaplain The most difficult cases Valadez sees are unexpected deaths.

Mario?’ I didn’t remember her. I’ve seen hundreds of families.

“Those are the most challenging, personally,” he said. “That’s But she remembered me. the hardest.”

“She said, ‘You were there for me and my family when my He cited child drownings, or sudden heart attacks. He recalls husband died. We’ll never forget you.’ You become part of their one time being called in on Christmas Day. forever memory.”

“A father with two young kids and a wife was opening presHe’s also comforted those that wouldn’t seem to want a ents,” he said. “Suddenly, he has a cardiac arrest and dies. chaplain – atheists.

That’s tough. For the rest of their lives, that’s their Christmas “One woman, an atheist, said, ‘You were so helpful, how you memory. Nothing you say could take away the pain.” were present with me.’ It’s always a great reminder that we all When he was a chaplaincy student, Valadez’s first case was a trauma call. A nurse asked him to join the family as a man have this human experience. Even if you can’t relate on a religious level, you can relate on a human level,” Valadez said. who had been in an automobile accident was brought in through He has been present for deathbed conversions, too. “But Emergency. those are not pushed,” he said.

He saw the man on a gurney with gruesome injuries, and it The patients and families aren’t the only ones who need a litwas apparent that he was not going to survive.

“I had to see that, then go be with the family, his two daugh- tle assistance. Doctors and nurses face their own struggles with compassion fatigue – burnout. ters,” he said. “I walked in, and they knew it was not a good out“We try to help them find renewal,” Valadez said. “Doctors come. I didn’t know the rawness of that, what I’d be getting into. appreciate what we do.”

But somehow, by the grace of God, I’m still here.”

Doctors don’t often approach them for spiritual help, but Valadez sometimes acts as a mediator in family meetings many do participate in a Blessing of the Hands, a prayer said for with medical personnel. safety and skill of a doctor.

“When you get that diagnosis, say a cancer diagnosis, some“They are appreciative,” Valadez said. n times the family is like a deer in the headlights. I might interrupt 2017-2018 AHWATUKEE MEDICAL

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Unhappy with your Medicare drug plan?

Here’s how to complain

BY GREG DILL GUEST WRITER

H

aving practiced pharmacy for many years, I often find myself talking to people about their Medicare prescription drug, or Part D, plans.

People with Part D usually share their thoughts about a favorite pharmacy or pharmacist, or how their plan offers medicines at affordable prices. Sometimes they report problems with a Part D plan, ranging from the cost of drugs to difficulty in getting a specific medication their doctor prescribed.

A first step to correcting problems is always to contact your drug plan (contact information is on the back of your drug card). A call to the plan usually will resolve your issue. If that doesn’t work, you can file a complaint.

You can do that by calling 1-800-MEDICARE or going online at www.Medicare.gov. Complaints can be made against Part D drug plans as well as Part C health plans, also known as Medicare Advantage plans.

The online Medicare complaint form is easy to use. Medicare takes the information you send and directs it to your plan. Then we follow up and monitor how well the plan resolves your complaint.

To find the complaint form, go to medicare.gov and locate the blue box near the top of the page that says “claims & appeals.” Place your cursor over that box until a dropdown menu appears and click on “file a complaint.” When the next page comes up, click on “Your health or drug plan.”

You can also lodge a complaint by calling or writing to your plan.

Your complaint could involve a problem with customer service, difficulty in getting access to a specialist, being given the wrong drug or being given drugs that interact in a negative way.

If you file a complaint about your Part D drug plan, certain requirements apply:

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You must file your complaint within 60 days from the date of the event that led to the complaint.

You must be notified of the decision generally no later than 30 days after the plan gets the complaint.

If your complaint relates to a plan’s refusal to make a fast coverage determination or redetermination and you haven’t purchased or gotten the drug, the plan must give you a decision no later than 24 hours after it gets the complaint.

In addition, you can make a complaint if you have a concern about the quality of care or other services you get from a Medicare provider. This includes doctors, hospitals, or other medical providers; your dialysis or kidney transplant care or a Medicare-certified supplier of durable medical equipment such as wheelchairs, walkers and oxygen equipment.

How you file a complaint depends on what your complaint is about. For more information, go to medicare.gov/claims-and-appeals/file-a-complaint/complaint.html.

As a Medicare beneficiary, you also have certain appeal rights.

What’s the difference between a complaint and an appeal?

A complaint is generally about the quality of care you got or are getting. For example, you may file a complaint if you have a problem contacting your plan or if you’re unhappy with how a staff person at the plan treated you.

However, if you have an issue with a plan’s refusal to pay for a service, supply, or prescription, you file an appeal.

For more information on appeals, take a look at your “Medicare & You” handbook, mailed each fall to every Medicare household in the country.

Or go online at medicare.gov/claims-and-appeals/file-an-appeal/ appeals.html.

-Greg Dill is Medicare’s regional administrator for Arizona. Get answers to your Medicare questions by calling 1-800-633-4227. n

Despite pediatrics policy, nursing coverage at schools varies

BY NATALIE TARANGIOLI CRONKITE NEWS

S

chool nurses do more than bandage scraped knees, often providing a lifeline to student’s medical care for a chronic condition like asthma or diabetes, advocates say.

But while a national pediatrics group recommends every school have a nurse, Arizona does not require that standard.

That means inconsistency among district schools and charters, where some districts have at least one nurse per school and others are stretched thin.

Both situations exist in Ahwatukee.

Tempe Union High School District has a nurse at each of its six high schools, including Mountain Pointe and Desert Vista high schools in Ahwatukee.

On the other hand, Kyrene School District has six RNs who are assigned to clusters of schools. Those nurses also provide training and consultation with “health assistants” and other school staff. In addition, the nurses develop plans for students with special health needs and communicate with parents and outside medical professionals.

Tempe Union stresses on its website, “Education and wellness promotion is a major focus of our program” and that the nurse’s office “is not a primary care facility.”

“School nurses cannot diagnose, prescribe treatment, or give medications without a doctor’s order,” the district advises parents.

The American Academy of Pediatrics in June issued a policy statement that calls for a minimum of one full-time registered nurse in every school.”

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention say only about half of schools in the country have nurses assigned, but data about the number of Arizona school nurses is difficult to find. One reason is school nurses aren’t required under state law.

Another reason is a school nurse isn’t clearly defined. Sometimes a school nurse isn’t a licensed nurse, said Nadine Miller, president of the School Nurse Organization of Arizona.

“When you go to your school, and you say, ‘Do you have a school nurse?’ Most places tell you ‘yes,’ ” Miller said. “Oftentimes, that person in that health office is a medical assistant, a secretary, a nice mom that’s come to help, but it’s not always a nurse.”

Schools without nurses can be a loss for students, she said.

More than half of children in Arizona are considered low-income, according to the National Center for Children in Poverty. School nurses can treat children when

(Cronkite News)

Desert Vista High School nurse Jean Kennedy was selected as one of four breast cancer survivors to join the Arizona Cardinals on field before a game in 2011. a trip to the doctor isn’t a financial option.

Cartwright School District in Phoenix has a nurse in each of their 21 schools, which follows the pediatric group’s recommendation.

Judy Evans, nursing coordinator for the district, said many families are thankful their children have someone at school who can treat them as needed.

School nurses also can prevent absenteeism, according to the National Association of School Nurses. Schools with a full-time nurse have about half the student illness- or injury-related early releases from school compared to schools with no nurses, the association website said.

Charles Tack, communications director for the Arizona Department of Education said even though school nurses are not required in the state, they are important to education.

“It can help student achievement, it can help make sure students are healthy,” Tack said. “We know that students need to be healthy in order to learn.”

Miller said she recognizes the need for more nurses in schools, but budgets sometimes can’t be stretched to cover the cost of staffing a nurse.

“School budgets, particularly in Arizona right now, have not been very good,” Miller said. “School nursing is not always on the forefront, because you need a teacher in that classroom first and foremost.”

Tack said it’s on the shoulders of local school boards to assess their communities’ needs and allot funding for school nurses.

“Those local school districts, they do have that ability: to bring in the parents, to bring in the families and the community members and find out what the needs are,” Tack said. “Then they can put those policies into action that best serve their communities and families.”

The nurses at both Mountain Pointe and Desert Vista high schools share a unique background as cancer survivors.

Brian Yang, the RN at Mountain Pointe, is a South Korea native who was studying at Michigan State University to become a dentist.

But he had to drop out of dentistry after graduating from the university to undergo several years of treatment, including a bone marrow transplant.

“I had lots of time to think about myself and my life,” he explained on the school’s website. “I decided to go for nursing.”

He holds two bachelor’s degrees, including nursing, and is trained in hematology, microbiology and chemistry.

At Desert Vista High, nurse Jean Kennedy is a breast cancer survivor.

She was selected as one of four breast cancer survivors associated with Desert Vista to join the Arizona Cardinals on field before a game in 2011.

During her ordeal of surgeries, radiation treatments and chemotherapy, various school clubs helped raise money to cover expenses not reimbursed by insurance.

“I was so deeply touched that so many people cared,” she said at the time. “They have been a strong family for me.” n

2017-2018 AHWATUKEE MEDICAL

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Dr. Ashok Solsi is the President and Founder of Premier Cardiovascular Center (PCC), established in 2010. He has been practicing in the valley for over 20 years. His prior practice includes service at Arizona Heart Institute – East Valley in Mesa, Sacaton, Phoenix, Chandler and Casa Grande from 1997 to 2009 as an invasive cardiologist.

Dr. John R. Tretter is board certified in Cardiovascular Medicine and Internal Medicine. Dr. Tretter received his medical degree from Autonomous University of Guadalajara, Guadalajara, México. He completed his internal medicine residency at Harbor Hospital, Baltimore, Maryland in 1989 and completed his cardiology fellowship at the Mount Sinai Medical Center in Cleveland, Ohio. Dr. Tretter is a member of the American College of Cardiology and the American Society of Echocardiography. He practiced with the Slocum-Dickson Medical group in upstate New York for nearly 20 years. He is bilingual in English and Spanish.

Invasive Cardiologist

Dr Solsi received his medical degree from Mysore Medical College in Mysore, India and he completed his internal medicine residency at Brooklyn Hospital Medical Center where he was chief resident during his final year.

Dr. Solsi is Board certified in Cardiovascular Medicine, Internal Medicine and Nuclear Medicine. He completed his Cardiology fellowship at Brooklyn Hospital Medical Center at New York University in New York (1997).

He is member and fellow of the American College of Cardiology and has published several articles on various cardiovascular topics. Currently he provides services at Chandler, Maricopa and Casa Grande.

In his free time, Dr. Solsi enjoys golfing, fitness and traveling.

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Electrophysiologist

Romas Kirvatis, MD Interventional Cardiology

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Ziad El Khoury, MD

AHWATUKEE MEDICAL 2017-2018

Non-Invasive Cardiologist

In 2009 he traded snowboarding on the slopes of upstate New York for mountain biking in the beautiful Arizona desert terrain to join Premier Cardiovascular Center (PCC). He has extensive experience in various cardiovascular diseases and provides services at our Casa Grande location and Banner Casa Grande Medical Center, where he formerly served as the Chief of Cardiology.

Your #1 Heart Specialists Ashok C. Solsi, MD John Tretter, MD • Georges Y. Nseir, MD Ziad El Khoury, MD • Romas Kirvaitis, MD Nancy Biehl-Judge, ANP

• Board Certified Cardiovascular Physicians • Practicing in the Valley since 1997 • Accept Medicare and all major insurance plans • Accepting new patients • Bilingual cardiologist and staff Participating at the following hospitals: Chandler Regional Medical Center Mercy Gilbert Medical Center CHANDLER 77 S. Dobson Rd. Chandler, AZ 85224 480-814-0266

Banner Casa Grande Medical Center Banner Desert Medical Center

CASA GRANDE 803 N Salk Dr. Bldg A Casa Grande, AZ 85122 520-836-6682

MARICOPA 21300 John Wayne Pkwy. #116 Bldg 7 Maricopa, AZ 85139 520-836-6682

Valley fever is ‘nasty stuff,’ victim says

BY TIMES PUBLICATIONS STAFF

C

orey Schubert winces a bit as he describes how he felt while suffering from valley fever.

“It’s the worst thing, ever,” he said. “It is really nasty stuff.”

Valley fever is caused by the fungus coccidioides, which grows in soils in areas with low rainfall, high summer temperatures and moderate winter temperatures.

That’s a relatively small area in the United States – Maricopa, Pinal and Pima counties, the San Joaquin and Central valleys of California, southern Nevada, southern New Mexico, west Texas, southern Utah and southeastern Washington. It also occurs in northern Mexico and parts of both Central and South America.

In Arizona, every person in one of the affected counties has a 3 percent chance every year of being exposed to valley fever.

“But you’re not constantly exposed,” said Dr. John Galgiani, director of the Valley Fever Center for Excellence. On average, it takes 12.5 years of living in Arizona to be exposed enough times that you might become infected.

A diagnosis of valley fever means a fungus is growing in your lungs. When someone inhales the spore and it sticks to their lung and grows, they get valley fever.

Schubert blames himself for picking up the spores. He believes he became infected when he went outside during “a giant haboob” in July 2011. He was toting his garbage and recycling containers to the curb and now realizes he should have waited for the dust to clear first.

Although it was nearly seven years ago, he remembers the evening well.

“There was dust in the air. It was starting to swirl,” he said.

In October, three months after the dust storm, Schubert got really sick.

Although familiar with valley fever, “it never clicked to me that I had it. I thought I was having a heart attack,” Schubert said.

Another month went by and he still wasn’t feeling well, and then “all hell broke loose in my lungs,” Schubert said.

He felt bad enough that he left work one day and went home to rest. The pain in his chest and arms got so bad he couldn’t even pick up the remote control for his TV. He also remembers experiencing shortness of breath.

“It was like an elephant was on my chest,” he said.

He waffled about what to do next, finally called his wife and headed to a hospital.

After several tests, the doctors determined he wasn’t having a heart attack, but found his lung had what they called a

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AHWATUKEE MEDICAL 2017-2018

(University of Arizona)

Tao Peng, a senior research assistant at the Valley Fever Center for Excellence, prepares sample vials in the lab in Tucson. “whiteout.” Assuming it was pneumonia, he was given drugs to treat that. But antibiotics don’t fight valley fever.

“I remember thinking the phrase ‘whiteout’ was cool. It was like a blizzard happening inside me,” Schubert said.

About 5,000 new cases of human valley fever are reported every year to the Arizona Department of Health Services.

That’s about half of the approximately 10,000 cases reported annually in the U.S., according to the Centers for Disease Control.

But officials believe more people actually contract valley fever than is reported.

It’s estimated that more than 60 percent of people who are infected with the fungus either have no symptoms or experience flu-like symptoms and don’t seek medical care.

Complicating the incident numbers, about one-third of the people who do seek medical attention for valley fever are not properly diagnosed, Galgiani said. Misdiagnosis is common because valley fever is prevalent in a such a small region. Many doctors have never heard of it and don’t realize they should order a blood test to check for its presence, he said.

In response to that concern, Sonora Quest Laboratories recently decided to offer a patient-ordered test for valley fever. Testing for valley fever has existed for years, but the blood test previously had to be ordered by a doctor. People can now order a lab test for valley fever

at Sonora Quest Laboratories without a doctor’s order.

Schubert wasn’t recovering in spite of the antibiotics, so he visited a pulmonologist, who prescribed an antifungal medicine to treat the real problem.

He was given the drug most commonly used to treat valley fever, fluconazole, but it was no walk in the park. Schubert said he felt like his stomach was getting torn apart by the medication. The pills discolored his teeth and “ripped up” his stomach.

“It’s worse than valley fever,” he said of the antifungal medication.

Fluconazole inhibits the fungus but doesn’t cure the disease, Galgiani said. So, if a person’s immune system doesn’t take over, they may have to stay on the drug forever.

There is no way to prevent valley fever, short of moving out of the regions where it exists. But not everyone or every animal exposed to the mold contracts the disease.

Likewise, not everyone who contracts valley fever gets sick, Galgiani said, and many don’t require any medical treatment because eventually their immune system takes over and cures the disease.

Schubert has learned his lesson and won’t go outside in any sort of dust storm.

“I see people out all of the time in dust storms,” he said. “I understand that, but I would highly recommend whatever you’re doing could wait. I really wish I hadn’t spent those couple of minutes outside.” n

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Proudly Providing Care in Ahwatukee for 15 years

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by Sheryl Felix, BSN, RN Introductory pricing $175/treatment of $450 for 3 treatments

Procedures including, but not limited to: Breast: Augmentation, Lift, Reduction & Reconstruction, Gynecomastia Body: Tummy Tuck, Lipo Suction, Arm Lift, Thigh Lift, Labiaplasty Face: Full & Mini Face Lift, Neck Lift, Blepharoplasty, Rhinoplasty, Laser Resurfacing, Fat Grafting, Brow Lift, Ear Pinning, Skin: Skin Cancer Reconstruction, Lesion/Cyst/Keloid Removal, Earlobe Repair Injectables: Botox & Juvederm

Skincare Services by Licensed Aesthetician, Kerrie Sammon Accepting most major insurance plans

15810 S. 45th St. Ste. 140 Phoenix/Ahwatukee, AZ 85048 2006 - 2010 2013 - 2017

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AHWATUKEE MEDICAL 2017-2018

480-759-3001

www.drjrowley.com

bios

medical ahwatukee/chandler

2017-18

Rashmi Bhatnagar, DMD, MPH

Dallin Birch, DMD

BellaVista DentalCare

BellaVista DentalCare

15715 S. 46th St., #104 Phoenix, AZ 85048 480-598-5900 www.BellaVistaDentalCare.com

15715 S. 46th St., #104 Phoenix, AZ 85048 480-598-5900 www.BellaVistaDentalCare.com

Dentistry

Dr. Bhatnagar, the founder of Ahwatukee’s BellaVista DentalCare, began her successful practice with a vision. She said, “I was determined to provide exceptional dental care with state-of-the art procedures and highly skilled, gentle, caring providers.”

In order to fulfil her vision, Dr. Bhatnagar understands that advances in techniques require life-long learning. She continues to take over 200 hours of advanced dental education a year to share and implement in her teams’ care of her precious patients.

She states, “Dentistry is ever-evolving. The practice, procedures, equipment, and materials we use should follow that upward trend to create dental success for our patients long-term.” Recently, Dr. Bhatnagar completed course work required for fellowship and mastership degrees with the Academy of General Dentistry which involved being evaluated by a board of her peers. These degrees are achieved by only the top dedicated dentists in the country.

Dr. Bhatnagar obtained her Doctorate in Dental Medicine and Masters in Public Health from the University of Pittsburgh, and completed an advanced residency program at Albert Einstein Medical Center in Philadelphia.

Dentistry

Dr. Dallin Birch is originally from southeastern Idaho and came to the Phoenix area in 1998. He earned his Bachelor of Science degree in Psychology from Arizona State University. Dr. Birch graduated from Nova Southeastern University College of Dental Medicine in Fort Lauderdale, Florida and has also received post-graduate training in endodontics, CEREC, implants and Invisalign. He is an artist by nature and is very meticulous as he strives to deliver the highest quality dental care. Dr. Birch is very compassionate and tries to give every patient the most comfortable experience possible.

Dr. Birch is an accomplished musician and has fun playing with his band in venues around the valley. He enjoys snowboarding, wakeboarding and, most of all, spending time with his two young children.

Dr. Birch is also fluent in Spanish. Please do not hesitate to contact Dr. Birch directly via email at dallinbirch@yahoo.com.

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medical bios

2017-18

Frank Bonavita, M.D., F.A.C.C Internal Medicine and Cardiovascular Disease

Optima Vein 485 S. Dobson Rd., Suite 103 Chandler 85224 | (480) 899-8930 www.optimaveincare.com

Dr. Frank Bonavita, M.D., F.A.C.C., completed his undergraduate studies at Brown University. He earned his medical degree in 1979 from the University of Cincinnati College of Medicine. He went on to complete his Internship, Residency and Fellowship training in Cardiovascular Diseases at the Cornell University teaching hospitals in New York.

Dr. Bonavita is Board Certified in Internal Medicine and Cardiovascular Disease. He is a Fellow of the American College of Physicians and a Fellow of the American College of Cardiology. He served as a Chairman of the Department of Cardiology and Director of the Cardiac Catheterization Laboratory at St. Jude Medical Center in Fullerton, CA for over ten years. He recently joined Optima Vein Care. He specializes in the treatment of varicose vein disease and venous insufficiency and is a member of the American College of Phlebology.

Pineapple Health & Rejensis Aesthetics 12010 S. Warner-Elliot Loop, Ste 1 Phoenix, AZ 85044 480.961.2366 www.pineapplehealth.org Dr. Kevin Chan holds an undergraduate degree in Neural Science from Brown University and a graduate degree in Physiology from the University of Maryland. After obtaining his degree in Osteopathic Medicine, Dr. Chan completed his residency in Family Medicine and subsequent fellowship in Occupational and Environmental medicine at Mount Sinai School of Medicine. Dr. Chan further specializes in Integrative Lipidology in which he synergizes Functional Medicine with Oriental Herbology and Medical Acupuncture. Dr. Chan is also a Fellow of the American Society of Angiology.

Dr. Chan is currently completing his Chinese Medicine advanced education at the White Pine Institute and is pursuing his fellowship in Integrative Medicine at the University of Arizona and fellowship in Anti-Aging Regenerative and Functional Medicine at the American Academy of Anti-Aging Medicine.

Lisa Cockrell, RN

Dermatology

Cosmetic Injectables

Ahwatukee Skin & Laser

Ahwatukee Skin & Laser

Bethany is a board certified Family Nurse Practitioner.

Originally from a small town in Iowa, Bethany grew up in Chandler, AZ. She earned her Bachelor’s of Science in Nursing from Arizona State University in 2007. While working as a labor and delivery nurse, she returned to school at University of Phoenix to become a Family Nurse Practitioner to purse her long-term goal of working in dermatology. With a family of severe acne and psoriasis, her interest in the skin began in high school and grew. Bethany loves that in treating the health of the skin, the self image of the patient may be improved, as well. She provides care focused on compassion and respect for the individual needs of the patient.

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Integrative Lipidology & Preventive Medicine

Bethany Cheatham, MSN, FNP-C 4425 E. Agave Rd., Suite 148 Phoenix, AZ 85044 480-704-SKIN (7546) www.ahwatukeeskincare.com

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Kevin Chan, DO, MS, FASA

AHWATUKEE MEDICAL 2017-2018

4425 E. Agave Rd., Suite 148 Phoenix, AZ 85044 480-704-SKIN (7546) www.ahwatukeeskincare.com Lisa Cockrell is Certified as a Registered Nurse Injector by the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, and has been performing cosmetic injectables since 1999. She is also a National Trainer for Galderma®, and travels across the country training doctors and nurses in injection techniques.

Lisa offers Dysport® or Botox® to minimize wrinkles of the forehead and around the eyes. She also offers Restylane® Lyft, Voluma®, and Juvederm® to restore volume in the cheeks and lower face, and Restylane® and Restylane® Silk to restore and enhance the lips.

Her goal is to provide a refreshed and more youthful look, while maintaining a natural appearance, and she encourages her patients to return for a visit in 2 weeks to ensure that she has met her goal and her patient’s expectations.

Cindy Collins

Kelly de Simone, O.D., FCOVD.

Cellulite Reduction and Wrinkle Reduction

Optometry

Southwest Silhouettes, LLC

Eye Priority

5777 S. Rural Rd., #5, Tempe, AZ 85283 (within Belle La Vie Med Spa) 480-226-4984 www.SkinYou.Love

15725 S. 46th St., Suite 112 Phoenix, Arizona 85048

Cindy was a competitive Masters swimmer, embarrassed by her aging legs, when Endermologie won FDA-clearance in 1998. Eager to try this marvel in technology, she became such a fan of Endermologie that, six years later, she became a practitioner. Now in her 13th year of specialized practice, she has served 2 regions, 4 markets, thousands of clients, has earned 4 credentials in two different Endermologie technologies, and has administered more than 13,000 treatments. She is one of the few practitioners in the country providing treatments on the “Integral 2” – Endermologie’s latest technological release.

Endermologie is an FDA-cleared, non-invasive, spa treatment for the reduction of cellulite and the slimming and toning of skin. “Integral 2” practitioners have the added benefit of providing Facial Endermologie for the reduction of wrinkles and toning of skin. “You just can’t discount the impact that body image has on one’s well-being. I’m happy, and honored, to help my clients in this way.”

Garrett Early, PT, DPT, OCS, COMT

480-893-2300 www.eyepriority.com As the owner of Eye Priority, Dr. de Simone is “passionate about vision” and has provided personalized care to a wide range of patients for over 25 years. She is also a Foothills resident who raised three children in Ahwatukee schools. Her specialties include neurooptometric enhancement and rehab for adults with acquired vision problems, sport enhancement vision, concussions, brain injuries, as well as treating children with learning problems, crossed eye, lazy eye, or reading comprehension difficulties.

“With over 25 years experience in this field it amazes me that people still have not heard of Vision therapy. It is the best kept secret in the world. I welcome you to contact me, so I can show you how Vision Therapy can change your life.” - Dr. Kelly de Simone

Janet Euzarraga, DDS

Spooner Ahwatukee

Dentist

16611 S. 40th St. Suite 130 Phoenix, Arizona 85048 www.spoonerpt.com

Dr E’s Cosmetic & Family Dentistry

Garrett Early has been practicing in the outpatient orthopedic setting for over 10 years serving throughout the valley. Garrett had received his doctorate in Physical Therapy from Northern Arizona University in 2006. Since that time Garrett has looked for ways to expand his clinical skills through obtaining his Certification of Orthopedic Manual Therapy (COMT) in 2008 and then becoming an orthopedic board-certified specialist (OCS) in 2010. In addition to this, he is a certified ASTYM provider and certified dry needling provider. Garrett enjoys treating patients of various types of musculoskeletal diagnoses but finds a special interest in those with low back and neck pain. He seeks to utilize an evidence informed approach that combines current literature and his own clinical experience along with values and needs of the patient to provide the most optimal functional outcome. Garrett is the current director of Spooner Physical Therapy East Chandler and Mesa Gateway locations.

4206 E Chandler Blvd #20 Phoenix, AZ 85048 480-494-2435 www.drEfamilydental.com Janet Euzarraga, DDS, “Dr. E,” a rare gem in the world of dentistry, focuses on quality, personalized care. Inspired by reconstructive dental work she received as a child, she has dedicated her life to perfecting her craft.

Dr. E majored in Biology at Loyola University of Chicago, received her Dental degree from Loyola University School of Dentistry and advanced her skills with studies in cosmetic and restorative dentistry.

After 14 years in northern IL, she came to Arizona and in 2001 the Ahwatukee community, where she lives with her husband and two sons. She said, “In my practice I use the most modern, high-tech dental equipment available to give others the self-confidence that comes with a healthy and beautiful smile. Above all, my team and I share a strong passion to treat our patients as we would like to be treated—like family.”

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medical bios

2017-18

Kelly Fields, LPN, LE, CLT, LSO, ARRA

Inga Fors, O.D.

Ahwatukee Skin & Laser

Eye Priority

Certified Laser Instructor

4425 E. Agave Rd., Suite 148 Phoenix, AZ 85044 480-704-SKIN (7546) www.ahwatukeeskincare.com

15725 S. 46th St., Suite ORDER 112 YOU WILL NEED YOUR INSERTION NUMBER (IO#

Kelly Fields has been in the Medical Aesthetic industry for 16 years. She started her career and training under world renowned Dr. Stephen W. Perkins, MD (past president of the American Academy of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery). Throughout her career, she has worked with multiple respected Plastic Surgeons, Dermatologists, and top laser companies providing, high end medical aesthetic services and clinical education. As a Licensed Practicing Nurse (LPN) and a Licensed Aesthetician (LE) she focuses on anti-aging procedures and a variety of cutting edge laser treatments. The treatments Kelly offers include Ultherapy, Cosmetic injections, Micro Needling, IPL, miraDry, Chemical peels, and a variety of laser treatments. Kelly is a past West Coast Clinical Educator for Ulthera, Inc. (Ultherapy) and Alma Lasers. This allows her to be a part of the most current technology. Her focus is to keep you feeling youthful and enjoying every step of the way!

Lori Francoeur PT, MSPT, CSCS Foothills Sport Medicine Physical Therapy 15410 S. Mountain Pkwy, Suite 112 Phoenix, AZ 85044 480.940.8299 www.foothillsrehab.com

Lori was born and raised in Maine. She began her career in Phoenix in 2000 after graduating from Boston University with a Bachelor of Science in Health Sciences and her Master of Science in Physical Therapy. Lori is a certified strength and conditioning specialist. With over fifteen years of experience treating orthopedic and sport related injuries, the use of hands-on techniques, trigger point dry needling, and the ASTYM System, Lori helps patients recover from their injuries and function at their optimal level. Lori is an avid runner who has competed in numerous half marathons and completed NYC marathon in 2011. She has also been the coach of the Foothills Running Group for the last ten years. When Lori is not working, she enjoys traveling, hiking, backpacking, and watching her Boston sports teams.

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AHWATUKEE MEDICAL 2017-2018

Optometry

17338705 Phoenix, Arizona 85048 480-893-2300 www.eyepriority.com

Dr. Fors has a Doctor of Optometry degree from Southern College of Optometry in Memphis, TN. She has completed externships in Vision Therapy, Pediatrics and Neuro Optometry at a private practice in Chandler, AZ and an Ocular Disease and Adult Primary Care externship at Malcolm Randall VA in Gainesville, FL. She is a member of the American Optometric Association, the College of Optometrists in Vision Development, Neuro-Optometric Rehabilitation Association, The Lion’s Club, and volunteers for school screenings and sports vision screenings. She has been on several eye medical trips with SVOSH international to provide eye care in third world countries including Mexico and Costa Rica, she is devoted to volunteer and humanitarian work. In her spare time she likes to go traveling, hiking, biking and enjoys outdoor activities with her dog.

Collin Ito, D.M.D. VoteN.For Us, Best Dentistry

Dent

Collin N. Ito, D.M.D.

Sonoran Hills Dental Family & Cosmetic Dentist Family & Cosmetic Dentist 4909 E. Chandler Blvd., Ste 501 Voted one of Phoenix, AZ 85045 Ahwatukee’s Best Dentists!

480-785-9191 www.sonoranhillsdental.com (480)

785-9191

Collin N. Ito, D.M.D., has been providing general, aesthetic dental services in Ahwatukee for 16 years. As the sole practitioner in his private practice, with a long term staff, patients appreciate the continuity of seeing Dr. Ito at every visit, as well as his respectful, relaxed, and personable approach. Dr. Ito enjoys Chandlerbuilt Blvd.

Ste.patients 501 and their families in Ahwatukee, the long4909 term E. relationships with where he resides with his AZ wife 85048 and two children. His continued professional Phoenix, development supports his emphasis on creating beautiful, healthy, lasting www.sonoranhillsdental.com smiles and supporting overall health and well-being. Services offered include porcelain crowns & veneers, implant restorations and bridges, bonding, tooth colored fillings, teeth whitening, root canals, extractions, dental cleanings and periodontal services. He offers an in-house Discount Savings Plan for patients without insurance, interest free payment plans through PayPal, and is contracted with most dental insurance companies. His practice, Sonoran Hills Dental, is located at the SE corner of 48th St. and Chandler Blvd.

Find out more at www.sonoranhillsdental.com.

Janet Jordan, DDS

Mary Jo Kutler, DO

Ahwatukee Orthodontics

Ahwatukee Pediatrics

Orthodontics

12010 S. Warner-Elliot Loop #2 Phoenix, AZ 85044 480-598-3659 www.ahwatukeeorthodontics.com Dr. Janet Jordan established Ahwatukee Orthodontics 21 years ago with a mission statement of providing each patient and family a comprehensively exceptional experience. Dr. Jordan is committed to catering to each patient’s individual needs in a gentle, professional and respectful manner in all aspects of their experience with Ahwatukee Orthodontics, from the front office to the dental chair. She and her staff are experienced and caring.

Dr. Jordan is a specialist provider for Invisalign® and is a specialist in Dento-facial Orthodontics. She received her Doctorate and Specialty in Orthodontics from NYU where she graduated in the top of her class earning awards and honors. Subsequently, she worked as an associate professor at NYU and later at UOP in California before returning to Arizona where she now lives with her husband and family.

Sarah Neumann, MMS, PA-C

Pediatric Medicine

15715 S. 46th St., #102 Phoenix, AZ 85048 480-496-6444 www.ahwatukeepeds.com Dr. Kutler founded Ahwatukee Pediatrics in 1993 and has been serving the East Valley’s pediatric population since then. She was born and raised on Long Island, New York. She completed a pediatric residency at Phoenix Children’s Hospital and Maricopa Medical Center. She is Certified by the American Board of Osteopathic Pediatricians and the American Board of Pediatrics. Dr. Kutler is married for 33 years and has two children and two grandchildren.

Dr. Kutler is passionate about pediatric medical care, prevention, and wellness and has an emphasis on allergy testing and treatment, as well as, weight loss for adults and children in her practice.

“Weight loss discussions revolve around a multifaceted approach and lifestyle changes. I think we offer that opportunity for patients if they are willing to accept the challenge.”

Ty Nielson, MPAS, PA-C

Dermatology

Dermatology

Ahwatukee Skin & Laser

Ahwatukee Skin & Laser

4425 E. Agave Rd., Suite 148 Phoenix, AZ 85044 480-704-SKIN (7546) www.ahwatukeeskincare.com

4425 E. Agave Rd., Suite 148 Phoenix, AZ 85044 480-704-SKIN (7546) www.ahwatukeeskincare.com

Sarah has been a practicing dermatology PA since 2001. She grew up in Wisconsin where she received her Registered Dieticians (RD) license after completing her undergraduate degree in Community and Medical Dietetics and Psychology. She went on to travel and find her true passion for medicine. While completing a medical mission in Central America, she found herself wanting more advanced training to better serve the people.

After returning to Arizona, she received her Master’s of Medical Science in Physician Assistant Studies from Midwestern University. Sarah’s passion for skin started as a teenager who battled severe acne for years. After she was successfully treated, she committed her life to helping others achieve self esteem about their appearance. Her practice style is one of compassion, understanding and commitment to quality care. Sarah takes pride in developing meaningful relationships with clients and strives to create a positive welcoming environment in her office.

Ty is board certifi ed Physician Assistant with a genuine passion for Dermatology. Growing up in a family with various skin ailments, he quickly became accustom to the impact it can have on ones self image.

A native to Arizona, he completed his undergraduate studies at Arizona State University and Brigham Young University. He went on to receive his Masters in Physician Assistant Studies from A.T. Still University.

Ty has completed a fellowship training program in Emergency Medicine and has also devoted time in primary practice working with underserved refugees. Ty is a compassionate provider who enjoys building lasting relationships with his patients and is committed to providing the highest quality of care. In his free time, he enjoys spending time with his family, exercising, and playing golf.

2017-2018 AHWATUKEE MEDICAL

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27

medical bios

2017-18

Mark Page, O.D.

Murray S. Pratt, OD

Arizona’s Vision

Lifetime Eye Care

480-706-3937 www.arizonasvision.com

3961 E. Chandler Blvd., #106 Phoenix, Arizona 85048 480-706-3060 www.azlifetime.com

Optometry

15215 S. 48th St., Bldg. 8, Suite 180 Phoenix, Arizona 85044

Dr. Page received a Bachelor of Science in Chemistry at the University of South Dakota and earned his Doctor of Optometry degree at the New England College of Optometry in Boston, Massachusetts. Dr. Page has furthered his training with certification in Therapeutic Pharmaceuticals and in 1993 was awarded the American Optometric Association Recognition Award for attending over 150 hours of continuing education in one year.

Training in the latest techniques allows Dr. Page to detect eye problems early. “I’ve always believed the key to being a good doctor is having good training and using the latest technology to provide leading-edge eyecare.”

When it comes to treating his patients, Dr. Page is dedicated to bringing you the best care because your eyesight is priceless. “My top priorities are to give you a thorough exam that catches any problems while they’re easy to treat and to give you an accurate prescription that will help you see clearly.”

Dr. Page is a member of the American Optometric Association (Contact Lens and Sports Vision Sections) and the Arizona Optometric Association. He is participating as a clinical investigator for the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in the post-approval analysis of CIBA Night-and-Day Continuous Wear Lenses. Dr. Page is recognized as one of the Top Optometrists in the United States by the Consumer Research Council of America.

“There’s nothing that gives me more pleasure than to help someone see the world around them clearly. I’m proud to help people enjoy all the wonderful sights there are in the world. Dr Page resides with his wife Gina Page in Ahwatukee with their five rescued dogs, and their 1 rescued cat.

Dr. Page and Gina are both huge animal advocates and help to support Lost our Home pet Rescue. We believe in giving back to our community through volunteering and fund raising, we support many of our local schools and charities.

Keith Pritchette, PT, DPT, AT Owner, Physical Therapist Pritchette Physical Therapy 4730 E. Warner Rd. Suite 5 Phoenix, Arizona 85044 www.pritchettephysicaltherapy.com Dr. Pritchette received his Bachelor of Science in Athletic Training from Northeastern University in 2000, and went on to earn his Doctorate in Physical Therapy from A.T. Still University in 2003. Some of Keith’s past work experience includes interning with orthopedic clinics in Phoenix and Boston, as well as with Boston Medial Center Hospital, Bentley College in Waltham, MA and Carl T. Hayden Veterans Hospital in Phoenix. Keith has spent his whole career specializing in Orthopedic Sports Medicine and has worked with both amateur and professional athletes, as well as the general population. He also served as an athletic trainer for two Phoenix-area high schools and is a Titleist Performance Institute Certified Medical Professional. Keith’s greatest assets include strong manual therapy skills, ability to create challenging and unique exercise programs, and his dedication to all of his patients.

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AHWATUKEE MEDICAL 2017-2018

Optometry

Dr. Murray Pratt, and his team at Lifetime Eye Care provide comprehensive eye care and optical services to patients of all ages.

They are proud to give friendly and personalized service, using cutting-edge technology in a comfortable atmosphere.

Dr. Pratt graduated summa cum laude from Southern College of Optometry and continues to stay abreast of the latest research in eye care. He is a member of many local and national societies. He is experienced in fitting specialty and gas permeable contacts, treating glaucoma, diagnosing diabetic eye disease, treating all types of pink eye, as well as routine glasses and contact lens services.

Outside the office, Dr. Pratt is an active member of the Ahwatukee community with his wife and best friend, Margaret, and their three wonderful daughters.

Radman “Radi” Rahimenjad, D.C. Chiropractic Physician

BackFit Health + Spine 1949 W. Ray Rd., #23 Chandler, AZ 85224 480-787-0638 backfithealth.com Dr. Radman “Radi” Rahiminejad co-founded BackFit Health + Spine in 2002, merging forces with his sister Dr. Yasmin Rahimi to establish one of the most innovative and patient-care-driven chiropractic clinics in Arizona. His reputation as one of the most sought– after and affordable chiropractors in Chandler, Arizona, has earned Dr. Radi numerous awards and recognitions. Dr. Radi has been involved with health and science related fields ever since his undergraduate studies at Arizona State University.

Dr. Radi attended Arizona State University where he studied Psychology with a premed emphasis. Upon graduating with a Bachelor of Science degree in 1996, Dr. Radi enrolled at the prestigious Palmer College of Chiropractic-West and graduated with his Doctorate in 2001. It was at Palmer West where Dr. Radi first became involved with sports chiropractic. It was his passion for sports rehabilitation that set the groundwork for Dr. Radi to help develop the concept of healthcare that is now BackFit Health + Spine core belief system.

Over the past many years Dr. Radi made it his company’s mission to provide the best chiropractic healthcare to people in the Valley. Dr. Radi and his partners pioneered to expand BackFit to seven Valley-wide locations. Dr. Radi practices Palmer diversified technique and enjoys working with patients of all ages. Dr. Radi is certified as a Manipulation Under Anesthesia (MUA) practitioner in Chandler Arizona, and has added this certification to his repertoire for treating various conditions including but not limited tosports injuries and auto injuries; he has staff privileges at Sonoran Desert Surgery Center in Chandler for this procedure.

Bradley Rasmussen, MD Dermatology

Ahwatukee Skin & Laser 4425 E. Agave Rd., Suite 148 Phoenix, AZ 85044 480-704-SKIN (7546) www.ahwatukeeskincare.com

Dr. Rasmussen is a Board Certified Dermatologist, and has been in the field for the past 19 18 years. He currently splits his time between Department Chair at IHC in Salt Lake City and Ahwatukee Skin and Laser focusing on skin cancer surveillance, education and surgical intervention.

Dr. Rasmussen graduated from George Washington University and completed his residency at Mayo Clinic in Rochester, MN. He remains an active member of the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD).

Dr Rasmussen enjoys spending his free time with his three children, golfing and enjoying the outdoors. He looks forward to meeting you.

Monica Sawitzke, O.D.

John M. Rowley M.D. Plastic Surgery 15810 S. 45th St. Ste. 140 Phoenix/Ahwatukee, AZ 85048 480-759-3001 www.drjrowley.com Dr. Rowley is certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery, and is a member of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons as well as the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery. Attending continuing medical education courses and aesthetic meetings to provide his patients with the highest quality of care. He has been practicing in Ahwatukee for the past 15 years, and is committed to providing patients with a pleasant and rewarding experience. Dr. Rowley has been voted one of the top doctors in the valley by his peers in Phoenix Magazine for the last several years. Performing both cosmetic and reconstructive surgery, he is contracted with most insurance plans. His staff is welcoming and professional, and strives to make each office visit a personal and comfortable experience.

Dr. Rowley, his wife and two daughters reside in Ahwatukee, and he is a member of the Ahwatukee Chamber of Commerce.

LaRissa Shaps, PT, DPT, FAFA, CLT-UE

Optometry

Spooner Ahwatukee

Eye Priority

16611 S. 40th St. Suite 130 Phoenix, Arizona 85048 www.spoonerpt.com

15725 S. 46th St., Suite 112 Phoenix, Arizona 85048 480-893-2300 www.eyepriority.com Dr. Sawitzke is a Doctor of Optometry whose professional experience includes more than ten years of clinical practice in ophthalmology and optometry. Originally from Iowa, she attended the University of Arizona and Pacific University College of Optometry. Dr. Sawitzke enjoys spending time with her two children, who are involved in sports and music, and is an active volunteer at their elementary school. The family watches the Wildcats in all sports and loves to attend football, basketball, and softball games. Dr. Sawitzke is a member of the Central Arizona Optometric Society.

LaRissa Shaps, Doctor of Physical Therapy, has been with the Spooner team since graduating from Creighton University in 2010. Growing up in Nebraska as an avid sports fan, LaRissa also enjoyed playing volleyball, basketball and running track. Her love for sports carried her into the profession of physical therapy where she has developed a passion for treating athletes of all levels. She is a Fellow of Applied Functional Science (FAFS), which guides her biomechanical assessment and treatment of movement dysfunction that is individual to each patient. She is also certified in Integrative Dry Needling and Astym treatment. She is the clinic director at Spooner Ahwatukee.

In addition to treating athletes, LaRissa started her career enthusiastically focused on making a difference in the lives of individuals with breast cancer, and that has led her to a specialty in Women’s Health. Her drive also comes from being on the cutting edge of cancer and orthopedic rehabilitation and acting as an advocate for her patients.

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medical bios

2017-18

Jessica Sorensen, PT, DPT Spooner Ahwatukee 10325 E. Riggs Rd. Suite 102 Sun Lakes, Arizona 85248 www.spoonerpt.com

Jessica Sorensen, Doctor of Physical Therapy, graduated from A.T. Still University in 2001. She is a versatile healthcare professional who strives to promote health and wellness and facilitate success in her patients.

Over her 16 years of practice, Jessica has deepened her skill set and interest in many areas of orthopedics. This includes treating patients with general orthopedic conditions, sports injuries, torticollis, SI joint pain, neck and back pain, TMJ dysfunction, vestibular dysfunction, and pelvic floor incontinence and pain. She also enjoys treating pediatric patients and especially those with torticollis. Jessica incorporates many strategies and techniques into her treatment approach with patients, as each individual requires a unique plan. She has received advanced training in Astym treatment, Kinesio Taping, cupping and manipulation.

She has worked mostly in outpatient orthopedic clinics throughout her career, with some time spent in home health pediatric care.

Lifetime Eye Care 3961 E. Chandler Blvd., #106 Phoenix, Arizona 85048 480-706-3060 www.azlifetime.com Dr. Kash Sullenger, recently joined Lifetime Eye Care in 2017. He practices full-scope primary care optometry and enjoys working with Dr. Pratt seeing a wide range of patients ranging from pediatric to elderly and the treatment and management of ocular disease. They are proud to give friendly and personalized service, using cutting-edge technology in a comfortable atmosphere.

Dr. Sullenger attended Southern College of Optometry in Memphis, TN where he was awarded a Doctor of Optometry degree. Dr. Sullenger is trained to manage glaucoma, cataracts, macular degeneration, minor eye injuries and infections, dry eye disease and other eye conditions. He enjoys fitting specialty contact lenses and writing customized glasses prescriptions specific to meet the unique visual demands of each of his patients. Dr. Sullenger can also care for patients needing surgical co-management for cataracts, LASIK, and other eye surgeries. He enjoys living in and participating in the community with his wife Cara and their five children. Dr. Sullenger is currently accepting new patients and accepts most vision and medical insurance plans.

Arizona Oncology

Optometry

Cancer Experts

Arizona’s Vision

Arizona Oncology

480-706-3937 www.arizonasvision.com Dr. Alma Yamamoto, OD is pleased to be back “home” at Arizona’s Vision! Dr. Yamamoto completed his undergraduate degree at Arizona State University before continuing onto the Windy City of Chicago to attend the Illinois College of Optometry, where he earned his Doctor of Optometry degree in 2010.

Dr. Yamamoto has a dedicated patient base due to the exceptional care that he provides for all of his patients young and old.

Although originally from the great State of Hawaii, Dr. Yamamoto has lived in the East Valley most of his life. He currently resides in Gilbert with his wife Amber and thier son Warner. Dr. Yamamoto worked as an optometric technician at Arizona’s Vision some years ago, and his experiences in working with patients and in working with advanced eyecare technologies at Arizona’s Vision kindled his interest in the field and paved the way to his career as an optometrist.

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Optometry

Alma Yamamoto, O.D. 15215 S. 48th St., Bldg. 8, Suite 180 Phoenix, Arizona 85044

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Kash Sullenger, OD

AHWATUKEE MEDICAL 2017-2018

7695 S. Reseacher Drive Tempe (Elliot Road and Loop 101) 888-972-CURE • www.arizonaoncology.com Top Row: Kasra Karamlou, Snehal Bhoola, Dana Chase. Bottom Row: Rezwan Chowdhury, Abhimanyu Ghose Shaachi Gupta

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2017-2018 AHWATUKEE MEDICAL

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Detecting the warning signs and red flags of domestic violence

BY TAHIRAH OGLETREE GUEST WRITER

A

s I wrote in my book, “Survivors Celebrating Life Beyond Domestic Violence,” abuse doesn’t always scream. Sometimes it whispers. It’s critical that a person remains vigilant in recognizing non-physical, as well as physical, abuse in domestic violence.

Domestic violence is a topic commonly ignored because of the vicious attacks, humiliating anguish, suffering and shame a victim faces. The brutal physical scars it leaves behind both physical and psychological speaks blaring volumes through a victim’s silence.

Recognizing the signs and symptoms of domestic violence starts with observing the behaviors, gestures and patterns of both victims and the abuser.

The abuser may show signs of abuse by controlling the victim’s conversation, or making the victim feel uncomfortable by certain intimidating gestures. Condescending remarks to the victim also indicate emotional abuse. This behavior may happen in any setting where the abuser feels a need to exert power by belittling a partner.

The unsettling signs of a victim can be seen in many different ways in how she or he responds to their abuser. Crying, avoiding eye contact, doubtfulness, timidity and being afraid of speaking are all potential signs of domestic violence. Victims go out of their way to ensure they are not offending the abuser.

Other outward signs of fear can also be seen by the way the victim seeks permission, apologizes for everything she or he does, including making excuses for the abuser’s actions.

Post-traumatic stress disorder, including flashbacks, nightmares, severe anxiety, battered women syndrome, uncontrollable thoughts,

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Tahirah Ogletree low self-esteem, thoughts of suicide are all signs of what a victim faces dealing with domestic violence. The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline number is 1-800-273-8255 The physical signs of domestic violence may lead to specific injuries that can be vividly seen by physicians, family members, neighbors, friends and co-workers.

Here are several examples of visible physical abuse: severe bruises on or around the eyes, purple or red discoloration marks on the face or neck, involuntary shaking, bruises on the arms, back, and legs changes in eating patterns chronic fatigue, sprained or broken wrist, abdominal cuts, broken or missing teeth, eardrum rupture, rectal or genital Injury, cigarette burns, rope bruises and welts from belt buckles. The National Domestic Violence Hotline number is 1-800-799-7233 Some signs of physical trauma can be immediately recognized by a survivor of domestic violence. Others can be camouflaged behind the victim’s hidden shame. This psychological disturbance can prevent the victim to be forthcoming with what is happening to them.

They might make excuses or deny how they were injured.

Helping a victim reach the point of opening up about their abuse will take time. It’s important to be patient, and understand that the victim is living in mind-shattering fear and entangled in deep-rooted emotions. Using forceful tactics or language to get the victim to act or leave their abuser is not recommended.

Here are some effective ways to help a person dealing with domestic violence: Ensure the victim is safe, provide resources that will get them immediate help and keep them safe. Contact a local organization such as Turn A New Leaf (TurnaNewLeaf.org, 480-733-3019).

Showing support by listening and being there for a victim is important. Encouraging the victim to know the importance of breaking their silence is key. Advising that will help end the perpetual abuse.

Remember: A victim must want to leave an abusive relationship on their own. Using forceful language or trying to force them to leave is similar to what their abuser has been doing. n -Tahirah Ogletree, a domestic violence survivor in Chandler, is an author and founder of the O’Tahirah Foundation. Information: otahirah.org. Her book on domestic violence is available on her website and amazon.com

Refrigerator sticker offers life-saving information

BY COTY DOLORES GUEST WRITER

T

he scenario is a frightening one, but one that happens to someone in Ahwatukee almost every day.

A medical emergency occurs – a home accident, a recurrent medical problem, any number of things. Quickly, the Phoenix Fire Department paramedics arrive from one of the three village stations to handle the emergency.

The patient is well-cared for and transported to the hospital.

But there can be so many questions that arise: What medications are they on, or are allergic to? How is their house to be secured? Is there a neighbor or relative that should be contacted? Do they have a cell phone and charger, and where are they? Who’s their primary physician and how is she contacted?

What is to be done with their pets left at home?

In Ahwatukee, thanks to the vision of two local women and active community volunteers, there is a proactive solution for not only senior citizens residing here, but residents of any age.

Linda Jochim and Karen Young, both members of the Senior Advocacy Group of Ahwatukee, originated the idea of MedStats kits in 2012 while researching a way for seniors to have all their medical history and important contact numbers and other information in one place in case of emergency.

The MedStats packets, free upon request, were designed by the two women with input from the Phoenix Fire Department and the United Phoenix Firefighter’s Association, which donates the printing of the packages.

Ahwatukee paramedic Captain Derrick Johnson of Station 46 was instrumental in providing suggestions for packet inclusions and in educating his fellow firefighters on the program.

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Jeanne McLain of Ahwatukee said the MedStats stick “literally saved my life.”

“We needed a program for senior citizens to help keep them safe, and for first responders to have information immediately available to them during an emergency,” said Johnson, who has served Ahwatukee the last five years of his 34 years as a Phoenix firefighter and paramedic. see MED

STATS page 34

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MED STATS from page 33

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AHWATUKEE MEDICAL 2017-2018

“With a third of Ahwatukee consisting of adults 55 and older, this is a very crucial program,” said Young, assistant general manager at the Ahwatukee Board of Management who cited stats that showed of the 5,073 homes in the village, 1,628 are required to be 55-plus.

The MedStats document pouch is affixed with a heavy-duty magnet that is placed on a refrigerator.

Each packet contains forms on which important health information can be listed including current prescribed and over the counter medications being taken, and allergies. If desired, a living will or advance directive for health care is also provided and can be enclosed.

All very important to first responders, said Johnson.

“We’d go on calls and we’d have no information to help them,” said Johnson, an Ahwatukee resident.

“And sometimes we wouldn’t know who to contact, or what their current medical conditions or allergies to medications. These are all important things for our first responders.”

And there are other issues important to the patient.

“We call them ‘soft things,’” said Johnson. “Things like how to secure the home when they leave; what to do for their pets – water, food; and something as simple as locating their cell phones or grabbing a charger. It would bother anybody when they go to the hospital. People worry about those things.”

He said seniors often have neighbors who regularly look in on them. If the friend or neighbor is listed in the MedStats pouch information, they can be notified.

“They might have neighbors who watch after them, and they go in to check on them and they’re gone. This is another way for people to stay connected,” he said.

Other contacts include family members who may live in another state.

These, too, should be listed so the Fire Department can let them know where their loved one is and what their condition is.

“This is all a part of your customer service,” he said. “Obviously, we go there for the emergency, but there’s a lot that happens and this helps the patient, us, the doctors, and the person’s friends and relatives. These are things the firefighters on the trucks care about, and if its prepared beforehand, it just helps everybody.”

For Jeanne McLain of Ahwatukee, the MedStats program has already been of lifesaving help.

“I’m a type 1 diabetic, and several times I’ve had an insulin reaction. One time I passed out, and the firemen who answered my call were lifesavers, and I mean they literally saved my life,” said McLain, 86.

“I keep the package on the front of my refrigerator and I have a list that includes my daughter’s contact information,” she added.

The MedStats pouches, which has their logo prominently displayed, are distributed through the Ahwatukee Foothills Family YMCA, Ahwatukee Recreation Center, Pecos Senior Center and the offices of the Ahwatukee Board of Management.

A UV-protected window sticker is also included so that first responders know to look for the important information inside the house.

Jochim said, to date, approximately 3,800 kits have been distributed throughout Ahwatukee and another 200 will be soon reprinted and made available.

“We don’t limit MedStats to 55 and older though that was the group originally targeted through senior advocacy,” said Young.

“This program should not know any age. “ Jochim, community outreach director of the Y OPAS program headquartered at the Ahwatukee Foothills Family YMCA, and one of the founding SAGA members, said she recently had a conversation with a Phoenix fire captain from another district who told her he’d wished he’d had a MedStats pouch on the last call to which he responded.

The trademarked MedStats name and logo were designed by Ahwatukee resident RuthAn Schmidtt of Schmidtt Graphics. n Information: 623-565-8853 or Admin@SAGAseniors.org.

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www.ahwfac.com 2017-2018 AHWATUKEE MEDICAL

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Being a patient shouldn’t test your patience.

Health care facilities exist for one reason: to care for people. At Dignity Health Medical Group, we vow to never forget that. That’s why we’re focusing on the little details that make being a patient a lot easier: easy access to appointments, more comfortable waiting rooms, shorter wait times – and, of course, great doctors. Welcoming new and established patients.

Family Medicine AHWATUKEE 4545 E. Chandler Boulevard, Suite 104 Phoenix, AZ 85048 480.728.4400 CHANDLER 655 S. Dobson Road, Suite B113 Chandler, AZ 85224 480.728.5020

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