Fighting the Flu

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Holiday gatherings are beginning to ramp up — and so is the flu. According to the Maricopa County Seasonal Respiratory Illness Dashboard, the number of people infected with the flu has been rapidly increasing every week since the flu season officially began September 28. While numbers are trending down from last year and the five-year seasonal average, flu cases are expected to peak in mid to late December.

Whether you’re getting together with family and friends, attending a school event, shopping at the mall, or participating in any activity with people, you’re likely to encounter the flu virus.

Here are some tips for staying healthy:

  • Get a flu vaccine: The flu shot is the primary way to prevent the flu and can also reduce the severity of illness if you do get sick. Keep in mind it takes a couple of weeks for the vaccine to become fully effective so be extra cautious until your body has built up its defenses against the flu.
  • Wash your hands frequently: Wash with soap and water for at least 20 seconds (about the time it takes to sing the Happy Birthday song) or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer when soap and water aren’t available. Make it a point to wash your hands every time you get home from an outing.
  • Cover coughs and sneezes: Use a tissue and throw it away immediately, or cough/sneeze into your elbow. 
  • Avoid touching your face: Germs can spread when you touch a contaminated surface and then touch your eyes, nose, or mouth. 
  • Clean and disinfect surfaces: Regularly clean high-traffic areas and objects like doorknobs, phones, and keyboards. Antibacterial wipes are an easy tool to keep handy for daily wipe-downs of high-traffic places.
  • Avoid close contact with sick people: Maintain distance from those who are ill. 
  • Consider wearing a mask: Masks can add an extra layer of protection for both yourself and others. 

Remember that while most people are only down with the flu for a few days, people with chronic medical conditions including asthma, diabetes, a weakened immune system and other illnesses can become very sick and even die from the flu. Taking steps to protect yourself from becoming ill helps stop the virus from spreading. If you do become infected, continue to follow the tips above to prevent others from getting sick. You may also want to visit your healthcare provider to discuss antiviral medication to lessen symptoms and reduce the time you are sick.

If you think you might have the flu or would like to get vaccinated, call 480-882-4545 to schedule an appointment or request one online.

Tips for Picking a Health Plan

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Choosing the right health plan can feel overwhelming, but a little preparation can make the process much easier. Whether you’re updating your insurance during open enrollment, experiencing a life-changing event, or just needing to better understand your current plan, use these tips to find a plan that fits your family’s health needs and budget.

Look at Your Needs

Think about how much you went to the doctor last year or if your family’s situation has changed.

Learn Key Words

  • Deductible: How much you pay before your insurance starts helping.
  • Copay: A set amount you pay when you see a doctor.
  • Coinsurance: The percent you pay after your deductible.
  • Out-of-pocket maximum: The most you’ll pay in a year for covered care.
  • Preventive care: Routine services like wellness visits, screenings, and vaccinations to prevent illnesses or catch them early. These services usually do not cost anything out of pocket as long as you use an in-network provider and get any required referrals.

Check Your Doctors and Medicine

Make sure your doctors and prescriptions are covered by your plan.

Learn About Health Accounts

Some plans have savings accounts (like HSA or FSA) to help pay for medical costs.

Compare Carefully

Don’t just look at the monthly price. Check what each plan covers and what you’ll pay when you get care.

Know What Your Job Offers

If your employer gives you money for an HSA or helps pay for your plan, that can save you money.

Let NOAH Help

Only you can pick the plan that’s right for your family’s needs. However, we can help make sure the plan you choose will cover your services at NOAH. Call us at 480-882-4545 to verify accepted plans.

Understanding Open Enrollment

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Open enrollment is a time each year when people can sign up for or change their health insurance plans. Knowing when it happens and what your options are can help you get the coverage you need. The most common types of health insurance are Medicaid, Medicare, Marketplace, and employer plans.

Medicaid

Medicaid, or AHCCCS in Arizona, is free or low-cost health insurance from the state. There is no open enrollment period, you can apply any time of the year. To qualify, you must meet certain rules about how much money you make, how big your family is, or if you have a disability.

Medicare

Medicare is a federal health plan mainly for people 65 and older. Some younger people can also get it if they have certain illnesses or disabilities. Open enrollment for Medicare is from October 15 to December 7 each year.

There are different parts of Medicare:

  • Part A helps pay for hospital care.
  • Part B helps pay for doctor visits.
  • Part D helps pay for medicine.
  • Part C (Medicare Advantage) is a plan that combines A, B, and D in one option.

People still pay some costs like monthly fees or copays and also have an opportunity to purchase extra insurance for more coverage.

Marketplace

The Affordable Care Act (ACA) Marketplace has many plans you can choose from. You can sign up or make changes between November 1 and January 15. Some people can get help paying for their insurance through tax credits that lower their monthly costs.

Right now, there are talks in Congress about whether to keep extra tax credits that make plans cheaper. If those go away, plans could cost more in 2026. Even so, people should still sign up for coverage and update their plans later if the rules change.

Employer-Sponsored Plans

Some people get health insurance through their jobs. The company usually pays part of the cost. Open enrollment for work plans is often in the fall, but the dates depend on the employer.

Special Enrollment Period

Sometimes you can sign up for health insurance outside of open enrollment. This happens if something big changes in your life like losing your job, moving, getting married, or having a baby. Usually, you have 60 days after the event to enroll.

Getting Started

If you aren’t sure what types of insurance you qualify for, check out Health-e-Arizona Plus or schedule an appointment with NOAH’s Community Resources team. Our team can also help you apply for assistance programs if you have lost your coverage or can no longer afford health insurance. For help with choosing a plan that’s right for you, visit Tips for Picking a Health Plan.

Dentist Approved Tricks to Enjoy Treats

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Halloween is a time for spooky fun and sweet treats, but all that sugar can play tricks on your teeth. Don’t worry, there are easy ways to enjoy your candy and still take care of your smile. Here are some simple tips to help keep your teeth healthy during Halloween.

Choose Candy Wisely

Not all candy is the same when it comes to your teeth. Some are safer than others:

  • Chocolate is your best bet. It’s easy to rinse off your teeth with water. Dark chocolate is even better because it has less sugar than milk chocolate.
  • Sticky and gummy candies cling to teeth and are hard to clean off. These can lead to cavities, so it’s best to skip them when possible.
  • Hard candies can break teeth and take longer to dissolve, giving sugar more time to harm your enamel. Be careful or choose something else.
  • Sour candies are very acidic. This weakens tooth enamel and makes your teeth more likely to get cavities. If you love sour treats, eat them in small amounts.

Healthy Habits for a Sweet Night

Keep these tips in mind as you and your family enjoy the Halloween fun:

  • Eat before you go trick-or-treating. A healthy meal with protein and fiber can help keep you full and less likely to snack on too many sweets.
  • Buy less candy. If you’re not expecting many trick-or-treaters, purchase fewer bags to avoid having too many leftovers.
  • Pick mini sizes. Fun-sized treats are easier to enjoy without going overboard.
  • Stay active. Walk around the neighborhood, dance to Halloween music, or play games at home to keep your body moving.

After the Candy Hunt

Once the fun is over, here are a few ways to protect your child’s smile:

  • Drink plenty of water to rinse away sugar.
  • Brush and floss after eating sweets, especially before bedtime.
  • Donate extra candy. Keep a few favorites and send the rest to troops or local charities.
  • Offer healthy snacks after trick-or-treating to balance out the sweets.
  • Try non-candy treats. Stickers, pencils, or small toys make great giveaways and don’t affect teeth at all.

We’re Here to Help

NOAH is always here to support your family’s healthy habits. To schedule a dental or medical appointment, request one online or call 480-882-4545.

Enjoy the treats, protect your teeth, and have a safe and happy Halloween!

Carve With Care

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Pumpkin carving is a favorite fall tradition for many families. Whether you are preparing for trick-or-treaters or just decorating your front porch, it can be a fun way to spend time together. However, pumpkin carving can lead to injuries. According to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, about 3,200 Halloween-related injuries are treated in U.S. hospitals each year with more than half of those injuries resulting from pumpkin carving. Follow our tips to ensure a safe experience and happy memories.

Keep Kids Safe While Carving

If your child wants to help decorate a pumpkin, always supervise closely. Children under 10 should not use carving tools. Instead, give them markers, paint, or stickers so they can join in the fun without using anything sharp. This is a safe and creative way for them to take part.

Older children who are ready to help carve should use tools made just for pumpkin carving. These tools are usually safer than regular kitchen knives and are less likely to slip. Make sure to carve in a clean, dry, and well-lit area. Always cut away from your body and remind kids to take their time.

Another safe and fun task for kids is scooping out the pumpkin. They can use their hands or a spoon to remove the seeds and pulp. It is a little messy, but that is part of the fun.

Save the Seeds

  • Separate the pumpkin seeds and use our recipe to roast them for a healthy and tasty snack.
  • Try planting a few seeds in the yard, it takes a green thumb but it is possible to grow pumpkins in Arizona!
  • Dried pumpkin seeds are also great for crafting. Save a few handfuls to string for festive Thanksgiving garland or mixed-media turkey.

Be Ready for Minor Injuries

Sometimes accidents can still happen. If you or someone else is cut, apply pressure with a clean cloth and keep the injured area raised. If the bleeding does not stop after 10 to 15 minutes or the cut is deep, you may need to see a medical professional. Make sure the wound is cleaned and covered with a clean bandage throughout the healing process.

Light It Safely

If you want your carved pumpkin to glow, use a battery-powered candle, glow stick, or LED light. These are much safer than real flames and still give your pumpkin a festive look.

According to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, about 3,200 Halloween-related injuries are treated in U.S. hospitals each year with more than half of those injuries resulting from pumpkin carving.

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With just a few simple steps, your family can enjoy this fall tradition safely. Have fun and happy carving!

Heading Outdoors? Tips to Stay Safe

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With cooler temperatures, colorful leaves, and fewer crowds, many people are heading up north this month to hit the trails and explore the great outdoors. If you’re planning a hike or other outdoorsy adventure in northern Arizona or elsewhere, check out these tips to stay safe.

Remember the Sun

The weather may be cooler but we still need to be cautious when spending time in the sun. Sunburn can occur in any temperature, especially at higher elevations where you are actually closer to the sun. There’s also still a risk of dehydration.

What to Do:

  • Use sunscreen with SPF or 30 or higher. Don’t forget you scalp and the tops of your ears.
  • Wear protective hats or other clothing to shield yourself from the sun.
  • Drink plenty of water to hydrate before going out into the sun and continue to drink water throughout the day. When hiking, head back when your water supply is half gone.

Watch Out for Bugs

Your best defense against bugs is to use insect repellent. Most brands use picaridin or DEET as an active ingredient. Picaridin is the more common choice for its overall feel and odor. It’s also ideal for sensitive skin, safe to use on young children (over two months old), and won’t damage your clothing or gear. DEET is a harsher compound with a greasy feel and distinctive odor, however some studies suggesting it lasts longer than picaridin.

Ticks

Even in the fall, ticks can still be active in forested or grassy areas. These tiny bugs can carry diseases like Lyme disease or Rocky Mountain spotted fever.

What to Do:

  • Wear long sleeves and tuck loose pants into your socks.
  • Do a tick check after your hike — especially behind ears, knees, and underarms.

Mosquitoes

Mosquito activity starts to slow down in the fall, but they can still be around, especially near water or on warmer days.

What to Do:

  • Avoid hiking around dusk when mosquitoes are most active.
  • Empty any standing water near your campsite or picnic area.

Scorpions

Scorpions become less active as the temperatures begin to cool down but are still considered in-season through October.

What to Do:

  • Visibly check shoes before putting them on or knock them on the ground to shake out any hitchhikers or other debris.
  • Use a grabber tool or your shoe to knock over rocks or wood before moving.
  • Look for scorpions at night using a black light. They will glow fluorescent green under the UV light.

Bees and Wasps

Bees and wasps can still be active in October, especially if the weather is warm.

What to Do:

  • Keep snacks and drinks sealed when not in use.
  • Teach kids to stay calm and move away slowly if they see a bee or wasp.
  • Pack antihistamines in case of a sting (and an EpiPen if you or someone you’re traveling with has a known allergy).

Plants to Avoid

Poison Ivy or Oak

Not as common in northern Arizona as in other places, but still something to be aware of near streams or shady areas.

How to Spot It:

  • Look for clusters of three leaves. In the fall poison ivy is usually shiny green and poison oak is typically brilliant red or russet brown with deep purple splotches.

What to Do:

  • Dress in long pants and long sleeves if you know you’ll be in an area prone to poison ivy or oak.
  • Stay on marked paths.
  • Wash skin and clothes if contact happens.
  • Be cautious of plant oils that may stay on skin or clothing after washing. If your skin remains irritated, you may need to use something stronger like dish soap or a product specifically formulated for poison ivy or oak.

Cactus and Other Prickly Plants

Prickly pear and agave are often near trails.

What to Do:

  • Watch for plants knocked down by recent storms.
  • Do not touch or get too close to unfamiliar plants.
  • Remove any large cactus thorns from your skin (or shoes) with tweezers. Small fuzzy fibers can be removed by repeatedly patting the area with sticky tape.

Know the Wildlife

Black Bears

While bear sightings are uncommon, be aware of your surroundings as bears are preparing for winter and may be foraging during the day.

What to Do:

  • Store food securely and never leave food out.
  • Hike in groups and make noise to avoid surprising a bear.
  • If you see one, back away slowly and keep your kids close. Never run.

Mountain Lions

Sightings are rare, but they do live in forested areas of northern arizona.

What to Do:

  • Keep kids within sight at all times.
  • If you encounter a mountain lion, stay calm, make yourself look bigger, and do not run.

Rattlesnakes

Cooler weather means fewer snakes, but they can still appear on sunny days.

What to Do:

  • Stick to the trail and avoid stepping over rocks or logs.
  • Teach kids to look before putting their hands on the ground or into bushes.

When you encounter anything unexpected or unpleasant in the Arizona desert, the best plan of action is to use your common sense. Be prepared for encounters with nature but don’t let the thought deter you from enjoying the great outdoors. The health benefits of fresh air, physical activity, and quality time far outweigh the risk.

High Blood Pressure: The Silent Killer

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High blood pressure also known as hypertension, is a leading cause and controllable risk factor for stroke and heart disease. The good news – hypertension is controllable, and with proper management, you can lower your risk.

What is high blood pressure?

High blood pressure, or hypertension, is when your blood pressure, the force of your blood pushing against the walls of your blood vessels, is consistently too high. The higher your blood pressure levels, the more risk you have for other health problems, such as heart disease, heart attack, and stroke.

What is the cause of high blood pressure?

High blood pressure is caused by a variety of circumstances, and usually develops over time. High blood pressure can happen because of unhealthy lifestyle choices, such as not getting enough regular physical activity. Age, family history, genetics, and sex are all risk factors that cannot be changed.

What are the signs and symptoms of high blood pressure?

Most often, high blood pressure has no symptoms and many people are unaware they have it. In fact, hypertension is often referred to as the silent killer because it can damage your body and lead to other serious conditions without warning. The only method to determine whether you have high blood pressure is to measure it.

Blood pressure is usually measured at the beginning of every medical appointment as part of your vital statistics – just like height, weight, body temperature, and blood oxygen level. The medical assistant will begin by placing a cuff around your upper arm. Air is pushed into the cuff either by a machine or manual pump until it’s very tight on your arm, then the air is slowly released while the machine or a medical assistant listens with a stethoscope.  

Blood pressure readings are recorded as two numbers with a slash in between (ie. 120/80) and expressed as the top number over the bottom number (ie. 120 over 80).

What do blood pressure numbers mean?

Blood pressure is measured using two numbers:

The first number, called systolic blood pressure, measures the pressure in your arteries when your heart beats. Typically, more attention is given to systolic blood pressure (the first number) as a major risk factor for cardiovascular disease for people over 50.

The second number, called diastolic blood pressure, measures the pressure in your arteries when your heart rests between beats.

According to the CDC, a normal blood pressure level is less than 120/80 mmHg. Knowing your blood pressure numbers is the first step to maintaining the health of your heart.

Source: American Heart Association

What if I am diagnosed with high blood pressure?

Depending on how high your blood pressure is and whether it’s the upper number, lower number, or both, your healthcare provider will work with you to determine a plan for getting your blood pressure to a healthy range. Initially, this might mean more frequent visits with your provider to monitor the effects medication and/or lifestyle changes have on your blood pressure.

NOAH recommends patients who have high blood pressure or are being treated for high blood pressure be evaluated by their primary care provider at least once every six months

What can I do to prevent or manage high blood pressure?

Making lifestyle modifications can prevent high blood pressure in many people and/or help those who are borderline for hypertension get their levels to a healthy range.

  • Get at least 150 minutes of physical activity each week (about 30 minutes a day, 5 days a week)
  • Don’t smoke
  • Eat a healthy diet, including limiting sodium (salt) and alcohol
  • Maintain a healthy weight
  • Manage stress

Schedule an appointment with your NOAH provider right away if you think you have high blood pressure or if you’ve been told you have high blood pressure but do not have it under control.

Breast Cancer Screenings: What You Need to Know

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At NOAH, your health is our top priority, and navigating breast cancer screenings can feel overwhelming. If you’re uncertain about when to start, how often to screen, or the process of scheduling a mammogram, our team is here to help.

Who Should Get Screened?

Breast cancer screening is recommended for all women who do not have symptoms and have never had breast cancer. Screening is most beneficial for women at average risk of developing breast cancer.

What Does Breast Cancer Screening Look Like?

Breast cancer screening involves mammography, a low-dose X-ray that helps detect early signs of breast cancer, even before symptoms appear. During a mammogram, your breasts are compressed between two firm surfaces to spread out the breast tissue, allowing for a clearer image. The test is generally painless and only takes a few moments, with some mild discomfort from the pressure or squeezing sensation.

After images are made of both breasts, you may be asked to wait while your care team checks the quality of the images. The entire process usually takes less than 30 minutes.

Mammograms are one of the most effective tools for early detection. While a positive result doesn’t confirm cancer, further testing will help determine next steps.

Where Can You Get Screened?

Due to the specialized equipment required, mammograms are usually taken at a medical imaging facility and often require a referral from your primary care provider. At NOAH, our providers are dedicated to making sure you get the care you need stress-free:

  1. Schedule a well-woman exam with your NOAH health provider.
  2. During your visit, request an order or referral for a mammogram. Depending on your insurance, your provider will refer you to either Southwest Medical Imaging (SMIL) or SimonMed Imaging.
  3. Once you have the referral, schedule your mammogram appointment.
  4. Have questions about getting a mammogram or need help finding a location? Call us at 480-882-4545 and select option 5.

When Should You Get Screened?

Women at average risk for breast cancer should get screened every year starting at age 40. However, every situation is unique and recommendations may vary based on health history and risk. It’s not uncommon for women to get routine mammograms in their 30s. Ultimately the decision on when and how often to screen should be a joint decision between you and your provider.

Why Is Screening Important?

Breast cancer is the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths among women in the U.S. Early detection through screening significantly increases the chances of effective treatment and survival. Simply put, early detection can save your life.

For any questions or concerns, reach out to schedule an appointment with one of our providers today.

Your Guide to a Great School Year

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The beginning of the school year is often a fresh start for kids. Here are a few tips for success as you approach the first few weeks of the new school year.

Well-child Appointments

Well-child checks are crucial for healthy development among children. Make sure your child has their well-child appointment before school starts or at least within the first 30 days. The beginning of the school year is a good time to bench mark your child’s development both physically and mentally. It’s also a great opportunity to discuss any concerns about the new school year with your provider.

Schedule a Sports Physical

If your child is playing sports at all this school year, they will likely need a sports physical. Most school districts provide a specific form that needs to be completed and signed off on by your child’s medical provider. Save time and check off two things on your list by scheduling your child’s sports physical and well-child check together. NOAH’s scheduling team is also happy to assist with booking a block of time for multiple children if schedules allow.

Make Sure Immunizations Are Up to Date

Schools require immunizations and they keep your child and their classmates protected from unnecessary, dangerous, and sometimes fatal diseases. Your child’s medical provider will address any needed vaccines during their well-child check. Preview recommended vaccines here in advance.

Start a Good Sleep Routine

Kids need enough sleep to develop, do well in school, and keep up with home life too. Most children need between 9-12 hours of sleep each night. It’s easy to get off schedule during summer so try to start your back to school routine at least a couple of days early to establish good sleep habits early on in the school year.

Be Physically Fit

Kids need at least one hour of exercise every day. Make sure they get enough activity whether it is walking, swimming, or playing school sports.

Get School Supplies Ready

Start the school year with a sturdy backpack loaded with plenty of supplies like notebooks, folders, pens, and pencils, etc. Opt for a backpack with a water bottle pocket to ensure your child stays hydrated throughout the day.

Talk About Bullying

Make sure your child knows about the seriousness of bullying. It can hurt people emotionally and mentally and can harm their learning. If your child is being bullied or sees another student bullied, make sure they know to tell a bully to “Stop!” and to talk to a trusted adult (teacher, counselor, nurse) at school. For bullying, depression, or other behavioral health concerns for ages 6 and up, consider meeting with a NOAH counselor.

NOAH is here to help you with every stage of the school year and beyond. For a complete list of services, visit our website or call 480-882-4545.

Relief for Common Concerns About Prescription Meds

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From balancing your mood and preventing infection to improving joint health and even aiding in weight loss, prescription medications can have a tremendous effect on your overall health. However, studies suggest that over 50% of patients do not take medication as directed by their healthcare provider with one in five patients never even filling the prescription. While lots of factors can impact medication adherence, these reasons top the list.

No Longer Needed or Not Working

Sometimes medication can help you feel better right away and other times you may not notice a difference at all. Some medications, like antibiotics, may provide relief in a day or two, but you need to continue treating the illness with the medication to fully clear it from your system. For many conditions that usually don’t have symptoms to begin with, like high blood pressure or high cholesterol, you likely won’t notice a change in how you feel, but you will notice a difference in your blood pressure or blood test results. Other medications, like antidepressants, require a buildup of the drug in your system to be effective, so even if you do feel better right away, it may take up to six weeks to realize the full effect of the medication. All medications work differently so it’s a good idea to ask your provider or pharmacist what to expect.

Side Effects or Fear of Side Effects

If you’ve seen or heard an advertisement for a prescription medication, you’ve experienced the long list of possible side effects and interactions. While it’s important to understand the risks and benefits of using prescription medication, keep in mind that U.S. Food and Drug Administration regulations require drug manufacturers to include not only the most common reactions but also the most serious reactions to the medication despite how rarely they occur.

Actual side effects will vary, but if your reaction to the prescribed medication causes discomfort or other symptoms that impact your day-to-day life, it may be worth researching other options.

Cost

Prescription medication can be expensive, and in some cases, you may have to prioritize investing in your health over other non-essential expenses. However, if the cost of your medication means you’re skipping doses, not taking it at all, or forgoing basic needs – it’s important to find a cheaper option. Sometimes, you can cut costs by requesting a prescription for a 90-day supply, considering generic medication or another type of drug, or exploring discount cards and programs like GoodRX (free discount program open to anyone) or NOAH’s Discount Program (must meet eligibility requirements for income and family size).

Next Steps

If you’re worried that your medication isn’t working, are concerned about side effects, or can’t afford your prescription, talk to your pharmacist or prescribing provider about your concerns.

NOAH’s integrated pharmacy helps our providers and pharmacists to improve prescription medication adherence through increased communication, prescription tracking, and coordinated outreach to patients.

If you are interested in learning more about NOAH’s Cholla Pharmacy, ask your provider, call 480-903-3560, or stop by Cholla Health Center. Pharmacy services are open to everyone, including NOAH patients! We look forward to serving you.