FALL 2024 STATE-OF-THE-ART TECHNOLOGY. STATE-OF-THE-HEART CARE. Give blood, be a hero Are you getting enough sleep? p7 p4
2 Central Peninsula Hospital Shaun Keef, CEO Central Peninsula Hospital A MESSAGE FROM THE CEO A game-changer for student health care Central Peninsula Hospital (CPH) is looking to take a significant step toward addressing health care disparities and improve access to health care services for the youth in our service area. Through collaboration with the Kenai Peninsula Borough School District, CPH is preparing to establish a school-based health clinic at Nikiski Middle & High School, bringing essential health care services directly to the students, with the hopes of expanding this service to other schools within the CPH service area. The school-based health clinic pilot will be a game-changer for students who face barriers to accessing health care services. By providing on-site medical evaluations, the clinic will eliminate the need for some students to travel long distances or miss school to receive care. This innovative approach ensures that students receive timely and convenient health care, promoting their overall well-being and academic success. Through the school-based health clinic, students can connect with a range of health care professionals, including physicians, nurse practitioners and physician assistants, via secure video conferencing and telemedicine technology. This virtual platform, facilitated by an on-site registered nurse, will allow for real-time evaluations, diagnoses and treatment recommendations, ensuring that students receive high-quality care without the need to travel. The clinic will offer medical services to treat acute illnesses and provide appropriate referrals if needed. Beyond the medical benefits, the school-based health clinic will aim to create a supportive and inclusive environment for students. By bringing health care services directly to the school setting, the clinic helps encourage students to prioritize their overall health and well-being. Clinic staff will work closely with school nurses, administration and school district staff to ensure a seamless integration of health care services into the educational environment. This team-based, collaborative approach fosters an easily accessible, complete method to student well-being, recognizing the interconnectedness of physical and academic health. CPH’s desire to establish a school-based telemedicine clinic pilot project in Nikiski Middle & High School is a testament to the hospital’s commitment to reducing health care disparities and promoting equitable access to care for the youth in the community. By bringing essential health care services directly to students, the school-based health clinic will pave the way for a healthier and more supportive educational environment, empowering students to thrive academically and personally. Photo by Shelly Peterson
PULSE Fall 2024 3 PULSE is published as a community service for the friends and patrons of Central Peninsula Hospital, 250 Hospital Place, Soldotna, AK 99669, phone 907-714-4404, website cpgh.org. CEO: Shaun Keef External Affairs Director: Bruce Richards Information in PULSE comes from a wide range of medical experts. Models may be used in photos and illustrations. If you have any concerns or questions about specific content that may affect your health, please contact your health care provider. If you wish to be removed from the mailing list, please call 907-714-4600 or email marketing@cpgh.org. 2024 © Coffey Communications, Inc. All rights reserved. Central Peninsula Hospital and its clinics (collectively “CPH”) comply with applicable Federal civil rights laws and do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, disability, or sex. Translation and other services are available to you, free of charge, by calling this number: 907-714-4404. Welcoming Michelle E. Moyer, DO, MSW, to the Central Peninsula Mental Wellness team If you’re seeking our specialized services, talk to your health care provider for a referral. Your journey to mental wellness begins here. Central Peninsula Mental Wellness 291 N. Fireweed St., Soldotna Phone: 907-714-5950 Fax: 907-416-7681 Visit www.cpgh.org/mental wellness or scan the QR code. We are delighted to announce the addition of Michelle E. Moyer, DO, MSW, who joined the Central Peninsula Mental Wellness team in July. Dr. Moyer’s academic journey began with a degree in International Politics from Brigham Young University in Provo, Utah. She then pursued a Master of Social Work from the University of Utah in Salt Lake City, followed by medical school at the University of New England College of Osteopathic Medicine in Biddeford, Maine. Her training continued with a psychiatry residency at the Texas Institute of Graduate Medical Education in San Antonio. A member of the American Psychiatry Association, Dr. Moyer brings a wealth of experience in diagnosing and treating mental health conditions, including anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, psychosis and ADHD. She is skilled in managing treatment-resistant depression and providing cutting-edge therapies like transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) and Spravato (esketamine nasal spray), which will be available soon at Central Peninsula Mental Wellness. Compassion and support Dr. Moyer’s approach to care is centered on compassion and support, ensuring that every patient feels heard and understood. Her goal is to provide innovative treatments in a welcoming environment, fostering positive outcomes for all who seek her care. Years ago, Dr. Moyer had the opportunity to work in Alaska, where she fell in love with the state’s natural beauty and outdoor activities. These cherished memories played a significant role in her decision to return and make Alaska her family’s home. The Kenai Peninsula, in particular, appealed to her because it reminded her of the rural community in Texas where she grew up. She feels a strong connection to the sense of family and community here and is eager to contribute to the well-being of our residents. Outside of her professional life, Dr. Moyer enjoys spending quality time with her family and dogs, skiing, hiking, fishing, and exploring the Alaskan wilderness. We are excited to welcome Dr. Moyer to our team and look forward to the positive impact she will have on our community.
4 Central Peninsula Hospital Every blood donor is a hero. One generous donation can save multiple lives. If you have never donated blood before, or if it has been a while, now is a perfect time to roll up your sleeve. Blood Bank of Alaska has opened the Kenai Peninsula Center in Soldotna to serve the local community. A constant need Every two seconds, someone in the U.S. needs blood. Blood is needed every day of the year. Blood is essential for emergencies, such as when someone experiences a severe injury in a car accident. It is also needed daily for various medical procedures, including cancer treatment, surgery and blood transfusions. By donating blood regularly, you can help ensure that blood is available when needed. Ready to donate Blood Bank of Alaska donation centers work to ensure that blood donations are safe for both patients and donors. You can help by donating when you are in good health and feeling well. Some blood donation centers offer more than one type of donation. Whole blood. This standard donation involves just taking your blood as it is, without sorting for specific types of cells. You must be at least 16 years old in most states and weigh at least 110 pounds. Power red. A phlebotomist can withdraw twice as many blood cells with this donation. There are different age, height and weight requirements for male and female donors. Plasma. This advanced donation is also worth considering, particularly if you have the AB blood type. Medical teams can transfuse AB blood into any other type of blood. Donors must be at least 17 years old in most states and weigh at least 110 pounds. Platelet. This is another type of advanced donation, which involves both arms and a unique collection process. Platelets help create clots and stop bleeding in patients. Donors must be at least 17 years old in most states and weigh at least 110 pounds. Source: American Red Cross hero Be a blood donor—and a Gift of life Giving blood is an easy and meaningful way to help others. Ask your doctor how you can donate, or call the Blood Bank of Alaska’s Kenai Peninsula Center at 907-222-5630 for more information and to schedule an appointment. Blood Bank of Alaska’s Kenai Peninsula Center is located at 35096 Kenai Spur Highway, Soldotna, and is open 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Tuesday through Saturday.
PULSE Fall 2024 5 Is your heartburn actually GERD? It’s not unusual to have indigestion once in a while, especially after a big meal. But heartburn that happens frequently—or comes on with other symptoms—could be a sign of something more serious called gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). GERD is a digestive disorder that occurs when food and acid from the stomach excessively flow back into the esophagus. It’s uncomfortable and, when left untreated, can increase the risk of esophageal inflammation and cancer. GERD can also contribute to breathing problems like asthma, wheezing, loss of voice or pneumonia. Bill Kim, MD Contact us for your digestive health needs! Central Peninsula Gastroenterology 240 Hospital Place, Soldotna 907-714-6120 www.cpgh.org/gastroenterology (or scan the QR code) Heartburn vs. GERD: What’s the difference? GERD is often marked by frequent heartburn—a painful, burning feeling in the chest or back of the throat. But GERD can cause other symptoms too. These include: ● Bad breath. ● Chest or abdominal pain. ● Nausea or vomiting. ● Chronic coughing. ● In some cases, trouble swallowing or tooth erosion. Anyone can have GERD. Being overweight or smoking can significantly raise a person’s risk, though. Pregnant women and those taking certain medications (like some sedatives, antidepressants, NSAIDs or high blood pressure drugs) are also more likely to be affected. Get help for GERD GERD has the potential to cause health problems over time. Getting the condition under control is the best way to start feeling better and lower your risk for possible complications. Start by talking with your primary care provider. Together you can come up with a GERD management plan that includes lifestyle changes. For example: ● Identifying and avoiding heartburn-triggering foods, such as things that are spicy or acidic. ● Eating a lower-fat diet. ● Trading large meals for smaller, more frequent meals. ● Losing weight if needed. ● Quitting smoking if you smoke. ● Elevating your head while you sleep. Over-the-counter and prescription drugs can help too. Surgery can be another option when lifestyle changes and medicines aren’t enough. Recent guidelines recommend an upper endoscopy in men with chronic heartburn and a BMI over 30. Sources: Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics; American Academy of Family Physicians; National Institutes of Health
6 Central Peninsula Hospital The importance of well-child visits If you have children, it’s important to take them to regular well-child visits. These visits, also called physical exams or checkups, help you understand your child’s growth and development. They also help keep your child healthy and safe. When it comes to choosing a doctor for your child’s checkups, you have options. Pediatricians are doctors who have specialized training in caring for children. But a family doctor also can provide quality well-child visits. These doctors care for patients at all stages of life, from childhood through old age. Why does my child need well-child visits? These checkups offer many advantages. Growth and development. At each visit, the doctor will give your child a physical exam. They will measure your child’s height and weight, listen to their heartbeat and lungs, and perform simple tests to understand how your child is growing and if their development is within a normal range for their age. The doctor will talk about your child’s stages of physical and social development, which are called developmental milestones. Prevention. Your child needs immunizations to protect them against serious illnesses. In addition to these immunizations, you and your doctor will discuss ways to make sure your child is safe at home and at school. Answers to your questions. Wellchild visits are an ideal time for you to bring up questions or concerns. For example, you may want to know if your child is eating the right foods or getting adequate sleep. Jot down your top questions and bring them with you. Make notes during the visit and review them when you get home. If your child has had major changes in their life, such as a new sibling or a new school, be sure to mention them during the checkup. How often will my child need well-child visits? During the first few years of life, your child grows rapidly and will need frequent checkups. Here are the ages at which your child needs to see the doctor: ● 1 week. ● 2 weeks. ● 1 month. ● 2 months. ● 4 months. ● 6 months. ● 12 months. ● 15 months. ● 18 months. ● 2 years. ● 2½ years. Between ages 3 and 18, annual well-child visits are recommended. Sources: American Academy of Family Physicians; American Academy of Pediatrics; U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Scan the QR code to reach www.cpgh.org/familypediatrics or call or visit one of our convenient locations: Central Peninsula Family Practice & Pediatrics, Soldotna 245 N. Binkley St., Suite 10, Soldotna 907-714-4111 Central Peninsula Family Practice & Pediatrics, Kenai 506 Lake St., Kenai 907-714-4111
PULSE Fall 2024 7 Are you getting enough sleep? Sleep better, feel better Most adults need seven to nine hours of sleep each night for a sound reason: Sleep is the cornerstone of health and wellbeing. It’s as essential to survival as food and water. Rewards of rest While you’re sleeping, your body and brain don’t shut down. Rather, they go into repair mode. Shut-eye allows important processes to happen. A good night’s sleep: ● Gives your cells, tissues and blood vessels time to repair and heal. ● Strengthens your immune system. ● Fortifies alertness, decision-making, focus, learning, memory, reasoning and problem-solving. ● Enhances creativity and productivity. ● Helps build and repair muscle. ● Boosts your mood and energy levels. All told, everything is better when you get enough rest. Say good night to sleep issues With a good night’s sleep, you should feel rested and ready for action during the next day. Regularly missing out on a full night’s rest, however, can not only make you feel sluggish and tired, it can also harm your health. Consistently not getting enough sleep can put you at increased risk for heart disease, high blood pressure and many other conditions. It can also contribute to weight gain, inflammation and accidents, among other problems. Sleep tweaks If you are having trouble regularly getting enough sleep, try these simple sleep strategies. Stick to a sleep schedule. Go to bed and wake up at the same time each day, even on weekends. Power down. Before bedtime, turn off electronic devices and the TV. Avoiding bright lights and loud sounds from your TV and devices helps set the stage for slumber. Instead, do something relaxing, such as taking a warm bath or reading a book. Cut back on caffeine and alcohol. Both can be sleep stealers, especially caffeine late in the day and alcoholic beverages at bedtime. Wear yourself out. Exercise helps you fall asleep faster and stay asleep longer. Try to get in 20 to 30 minutes of physical activity each day, in the morning or afternoon. Exercise can also boost alertness, so avoid working out in the hours before going to bed. Sources: American Heart Association; National Institutes of Health If you’re struggling with sleep issues, don’t hesitate to seek professional help. A referral to the Sleep Center at Central Peninsula Hospital can provide you with the specialized care and tools you need to improve your sleep quality. Taking this step can make a significant difference in your daily life, helping you feel more rested, focused and healthy. Scan the QR code to reach our Sleep Center webpage or give us a call today! Central Peninsula Sleep Center 907-714-4439 262 N. Binkley St., Soldotna
Keep your child healthy and safe Know why a well-child visit is so important? See page 6. Standard U.S. Postage PAID Walla Walla, WA Permit No. 44 Roll up your sleeve for the flu shot Getting a yearly flu shot is one of the best ways to protect yourself from the flu. A flu shot is recommended for everyone 6 months of age and older, including women who are pregnant. This year’s flu shot contains an updated influenza A (H1N1) component to match the flu viruses predicted to be circulating in the community. Don’t worry— you can’t get the flu from the shot. The flu vaccine contains an inactive form of the virus to help your body build immunity. What to know about the flu shot It’s effective. Getting a flu shot can significantly reduce your chances of getting the flu. If you still get the flu, your symptoms will likely be less severe. Last season, people who were vaccinated against flu were 40% to 70% less likely to be hospitalized because of flu illness or related complications. High-dose shots offer more protection for older people. Getting a flu shot is especially important for people at increased risk of developing serious flu complications, including those age 65 and older. A higher-dose flu vaccine is recommended for this age group. The flu shot is safe for those with severe egg allergies. Most flu vaccines contain a small amount of egg protein, which is involved in the manufacturing process. Starting this flu season, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention no longer recommends any additional safety measures for people who have egg allergies. Get a free flu vaccine Central Peninsula Hospital is offering two convenient options: ● Flu Vaccine Drive Thru, Wednesday, Oct. 23, 3 to 5:30 p.m., CPH parking garage (must be 18 or older). ● 2024 CPH Community Health Fair, Saturday, Oct. 26, 8 a.m. to noon, CPH Campus River Tower. Call 907-714-4404 or visit cpgh.org for more information. Sources: AARP; American Osteopathic Association; Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
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