Interpreter Services Available

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If you are more comfortable communicating in a language other than English, we can help! While many of our providers speak multiple languages, NOAH also offers interpreter services at no additional cost for all of our services including:

  • Medical
  • Nutrition
  • Counseling
  • Psychiatry
  • Dental
  • Community Resources
  • Pharmacy (medication labels also can be printed in any language)

Simply request an interpreter when scheduling your appointment and indicate which language you prefer. NOAH schedulers will make a note in your chart and ensure an interpreter is available for your appointment.

How It Works

NOAH provides HIPAA-compliant interpreter services in more than 300 languages. Most languages are available immediately upon request, while less frequently used languages may need to be scheduled in advance.

If you have an in-person appointment at a NOAH health center, your provider will bring in a small TV on a rolling stand. Within moments, a live interpreter who is fluent in your language will connect via video and interpret the conversation between you and your provider for the duration of your appointment.

For telehealth visits, interpreters will join through the MyChart platform via Zoom and appear on the screen with you and your provider.

If you need assistance with scheduling, billing, referrals, medical records, or even NOAH’s nurse triage line, our team members can quickly connect with an interpreter upon request.

For more information or to schedule an appointment, please contact us at 480-882-4545.

Spring Sports Physicals Available!

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Participating in sports is not just a great way to improve health and physical fitness but also an opportunity to build confidence and make new friends. If your child is participating in a spring sport as their first sport this school year, they are likely due for a sports physical.

What is a Sports Physical?

A sports physical includes a detailed medical history and physical exam which helps medical professionals decide if you can safely participate in school sports.

Medical History Review

  • illnesses
  • injuries
  • surgeries
  • allergies
  • family medical history to identify potential risks

Physical Exam

  • check height, weight, pulse, and blood pressure
  • test vision and hearing
  • listen to heart and lungs
  • evaluate joints, flexibility, posture, and strength
  • check eyes, ears, nose, throat, and abdomen
  • may also include evaluation for scoliosis, hernia, or skin conditions

General Health

  • Discuss nutrition, supplements, and lifestyle

Vaccine Review

  • Check immunization records and determine if there are any past due or upcoming recommended vaccines

Why are Sports Physicals Required?

Sports physicals ensure your child is healthy enough to meet the physical demands associated with competitive sports. For example, a sports physical can help assess issues like concussions, hernias, or asthma as well as help screen for potentially life-threatening conditions like cardiac abnormality. Most schools require all students complete a sports physical before being able to play.

What if Something is Wrong?

If there are any abnormalities or concerns, your primary care provider will help coordinate appropriate additional testing and follow-up. Sometimes it only takes a lab test or meeting with a specialist to obtain sports clearance. Rarely, a condition may be discovered that prohibits participation in a particular sport.

How To Get the Most From Your Visit

  • bring a printed copy of your specific, school-required physical form
  • wear comfortable clothing
  • bring glasses or contacts.
  • be prepared to discuss any past injuries, medications, or ongoing health issues

Request an Appointment

Ready to schedule? Request an appointment with any of our family medicine or pediatric providers online, via MyChart, or call us at 480-882-4545. If your child is also due for a well child visit, ask your scheduler about the possibility of combining these two appointments.

Is Your Heart Healthy?

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According to the American Heart Association, heart disease is the number one killer in the United States, and it is the leading cause of death worldwide. There are many risk factors that impact your chances of having heart disease. The National Institutes of Health (NIH) states that preventing heart disease starts with knowing what your risk factors are and what you can do to lower them.

Some risk factors for heart disease include:

  • high blood pressure
  • high blood cholesterol
  • obesity
  • diabetes
  • smoking
  • lack of physical activity
  • unhealthy eating behaviors

These risk factors can be managed or changed. Some risk factors that cannot be changed include age, sex, and family history of heart disease.

If you have any questions or concerns about potential risk factors, please check with your NOAH healthcare provider!

Nutrition can impact your heart health

Heart disease is often preventable when people make healthy changes, including diet and how much activity or exercise they get. Living a heart-healthy life means knowing your risk factors and making good choices to protect your heart and stay healthy. Here are some heart-healthy nutrition and exercise tips:

  • Choose heart-healthy foods and eat a diet that is balanced with whole grains, fruits and vegetables, and lean protein sources.
    • Try to have at least half of your grain intake come from whole grains such as 100% whole wheat bread, oatmeal, brown rice, and quinoa.
    • Aim for 1-2 cups of fruit daily
    • Aim for 1-3 cups of vegetables daily
  • Choose fat-free or low-fat dairy products when having milk, cheese, or yogurt.

Foods to enjoy

  • Lean meats such as 95% lean ground beef or pork tenderloin, or skinless chicken or turkey (limit red meats to one time per week)
    • Fish including salmon and tuna (try to eat fish as least once per week)
    • Eggs
    • Nuts, seeds, tofu, tempeh, edamame
    • Legumes (beans, lentils, and chickpeas)
  • Incorporate foods that are high in monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats (good fats):
    • Olive oil or avocado oil
    • Fish and seafood
    • Nuts and seeds
    • Nut and seed butters
    • Avocados

Foods to limit

  • Limit high sodium foods. Adults and children 14+ should eat less than 2,300 mg of sodium daily.
    • Read food labels and choose foods that are lower in sodium. Look for low sodium, reduced sodium, or no salt added on the food label.
    • Choose fresh, whole foods whenever possible and try to avoid processed foods such as frozen meals.
    • Avoid the saltshaker and flavor foods with herbs and spices instead.
  • Limit saturated fats.
    • Saturated fat is usually found in animal-based proteins such as fatty beef, pork, and chicken skin.
    • It is also found in full-fat dairy products such as whole milk.
    • Butter, lard, coconut and palm oils also contain saturated fats (replace with olive oil).
  • Avoid trans fats.
    • Trans fats can be found in margarine, shortening, processed sweets, baked goods, and some fried foods.
    • Avoid foods with “partially hydrogenated oil” on the ingredient list such as cookies, pastries, baked goods, biscuits, crackers, and frozen dinners.
  • Limit foods that are high in added sugars
    • Sugar-sweetened drinks such as soda, fruit juice, sweetened coffees, and energy drinks
    • Sweets and desserts
  • Limit Alcohol

Registered Dietitian Nutritionists provide nutritional care and guidance for patients with nutrition-related conditions like diabetes and pre-diabetes, cardiovascular disease, weight management, digestive issues, food allergies, and more.

If you have any nutrition questions or need help developing a heart healthy diet plan, schedule an appointment with one of our dietitians or reach out to your primary care provider.

Do More With NOAH

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Taking care of your health shouldn’t feel complicated. At NOAH, we believe you deserve care that looks at the whole person—not just one symptom or one visit. That’s why we offer integrated care with many of the services you need all in one place to ensure you’re feeling good from head-to-toe!

What Is Integrated Care?

Integrated care brings medical, dental, behavioral health, and support services together as one team. Your providers communicate with each other, share information, and focus on what’s best for your overall health—physically, emotionally, and mentally.

Our Integrated Services

Medical
NOAH provides medical care for patients of all ages. Our primary care doctors, nurse practitioners, and physician assistants are here to help with routine checkups, chronic conditions, preventive care, and more.

Dental
Our dental team creates a comfortable, welcoming environment for preventive, emergency, and restorative care. For children, we focus on education and prevention to build healthy habits that last a lifetime. Full dental services are available at Cholla, Desert Mission, and Palomino Health Centers.

Nutrition Services
Good nutrition is key to good health. Whether you’re managing diabetes, heart health, weight goals, or general nutrition concerns, our nutrition experts are here to guide you toward healthier choices and a balanced lifestyle.

Counseling
Life can be challenging, and you don’t have to navigate it alone. Our counselors support individuals and families dealing with stress, anxiety, depression, grief, life changes, and more helping you build emotional strength and healthier habits.

Psychiatry
Our psychiatric providers diagnose and treat mental, emotional, and behavioral health conditions. By connecting mental health care with physical care, we help you feel better and live a healthier, happier life.

Lab Services
On-site lab services by SonoraQuest make testing easier and faster, helping your care team get the information they need without extra trips.

Pharmacy
Open to NOAH patients and community members, our pharmacy makes it simple to get your medications. Because it’s part of our integrated system, your providers can easily communicate and coordinate your treatment.

Community Resources Support
Our specialists help connect you to important programs like AHCCCS, SNAP, KidsCare, and more. We also offer food services, transportation assistance, and other benefits to help remove barriers so you can focus on your health.

The Benefits of Integrated Care

  • More Convenience: Fewer trips, fewer phone calls, and more services in one familiar place.
  • Better Coordination: Your care team works together behind the scenes to support all your health needs.
  • Greater Efficiency: Less paperwork, fewer repeated tests, and smoother follow-ups.
  • Early Intervention: If you need extra support, evaluations and next steps can often happen right away.
  • Whole-Person Care: Your physical, mental, and emotional health are all treated as connected.

Ready to Take the Next Step?

Your health is more than just one appointment, it’s a journey. Let NOAH support you every step of the way with integrated care designed around you. Ask your NOAH provider how you can benefit from additional services at NOAH or call us at 480-882-4545.

Healthy Holiday Hosting Tips

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The holiday season is a time for joy, celebration, and gathering with loved ones. As you prepare to host friends and family, it’s essential to prioritize health and safety. By following some key tips on food hygiene, kitchen cleanliness, and overall sanitation, you can create a safe and enjoyable environment for everyone. Here are some healthy hosting tips to ensure a worry-free holiday celebration.

Preparing Your Kitchen

Ensure a clean and sanitized kitchen by using hot water and soap to clean various surfaces and utensils such as the sink, counters, cutting boards, pans, knives, and thermometers. For an extra layer of cleanliness, consider sanitizing countertops and cutting boards using a diluted bleach solution. If instructions are not available, leave the diluted bleach solution on the surface for at least 1 minute before removing or wiping.

Keep an ample supply of clean cloth towels or paper towels within reach for both meal preparation and clean-up. If you opt for cloth towels, wash them frequently using the hot cycle of your washing machine.

Food Hygiene

Maintain food hygiene by practicing proper separation of raw and cooked foods to prevent cross-contamination. When preparing various items, such as a roast and raw veggies for a dip platter, keep raw meat from coming into contact with ready-to-eat foods. Additionally, avoid consuming raw dough or batter containing flour or eggs, and cook foods thoroughly to reach safe minimum internal temperatures. Check out this food temperature chart for guidelines on how to properly cook raw meat, poultry, and other foods.

Place Hand Sanitizer at Key Locations

Encourage good hand hygiene by strategically placing hand sanitizer at key locations throughout your home. Consider positioning hand sanitizer stations near the entrance, in the kitchen, and near the dining area. This simple step can significantly reduce the risk of germs spreading.

Clean and Restock the Restroom

Maintaining a well-kept restroom is crucial for guest comfort and hygiene. Follow these steps to ensure a clean and welcoming restroom environment:

  • Regularly clean and disinfect all bathroom surfaces, including sinks, countertops, and doorknobs
  • Provide ample soap, disposable hand towels, or paper towels, for proper hand hygiene
  • Check and restock essential supplies before guests arrive

The Two-Hour Rule

Follow the two-hour rule for food safety. Chill leftovers within two hours of cooking, and toss out any items that have been on the table for longer than two hours. Avoid leaving perishable foods, such as meat, poultry, eggs, and casseroles, in the Danger Zone (between 40 and 140 °F) for over two hours, as this is where bacteria multiply rapidly. Ready-to-eat items like cookies, crackers, bread, and whole fruit are exceptions to the danger zone.

Post-Party Cleanup

Don’t feel pressured to complete all party cleanup in one night. Instead, gather and centralize items in one place for easier management. Perform spot checks on carpets and furniture for immediate stain attention. Once organized, allow yourself to rest and approach the remaining cleanup with a fresh perspective the next day.

Following these guidelines will not only ensure the well-being of your guests, but also add to a joyous and worry-free gathering. Make sure to schedule an appointment with your NOAH provider for COVID and flu vaccinations to safeguard your well-being during the holiday season.

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!