Join the NOAH Patient Advisory Council – Your Voice Matters

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At NOAH, we’re always looking for ways to make your experience better. From how comfy the chairs are in the lobby to making sure everyone feels heard, we want your input! That’s why we’re launching our new Patient Advisory Council, and we’d love for you to be part of it.

Here’s what you’ll do as a council member:

  • Share your thoughts and recommendations through quick online surveys about what’s working and what could be better.
  • Chat with NOAH leaders in small focus groups to help shape changes that really matter.
  • Make an impact in your community through fun volunteer opportunities.

We’re looking for patients or their guardians who are 18 or older and want to help make a difference. Active participation is a requirement of membership and is defined by participation in at least one council activity within a rolling 12-month period. 

Help be a voice for your community! To apply, click the link below:

Patient Advisory Council Member Application

Does The Big Game Come With A Big Risk?

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Football Season is in full swing, with two teams facing-off for a chance to be this year’s NFL Champions. Emotions are at an all-time high, and anything is possible. Regardless of which team we support, the uncertainty keeps us on the edge of our seat, our hearts pounding with adrenaline until the final seconds.

So, what exactly happens to our body during the most stressful moments that have and will come to define sports history?

The Heart’s Reaction to Game Day Stress

According to a study published in the New England Journal of Medicine, research found that viewing a stressful soccer match more than doubles the risk of having a minor cardiovascular event. Some fans have a very emotional response to an intense game that triggers their fight-or-flight. This can increase heart rate, blood pressure, cause narrowing of blood vessels and sometimes arrhythmias, or abnormal heart rhythm.

According to NOAH provider Nicole James, FNP-C, this is a “completely normal” response as adrenal glands release hormones that increase blood pressure and heart rate. Increased heart rate and blood pressure requires extra workload on the heart and those individuals with preexisting heart conditions, such as heart disease or coronary artery disease, may experience more significant symptoms when they’re excited or nervous at a sporting event.

A Heart-Pumping Experience

If you’ve ever felt like watching a game is a workout, you’re not far off. A study from the Canadian Journal of Cardiology found that tuning into a hockey game increased TV viewers’ heart rates by an average of 75%. For attendees at the game, heart rates spiked by 110%—similar to what’s seen during moderate-to-vigorous exercise!

Play It Safe

However, most individuals watching sports are just fine. Dr. Robert Kloner, director of cardiovascular research at Huntington Medical Research suggests being aware of symptoms such as:

  • chest pain or pressure
  • shortness of breath
  • palpitations
  • feelings of lightheadedness or dizziness
  • fainting

If you experience any of these symptoms, don’t ignore them!

More Than a Game

Despite the minimal risks, watching sports allows us to escape real life stressors and connect with a like-minded community. Doing so allows us to experience a collective glory when our team does well and gives us hope for better even when they don’t.

If you want to ensure you’re game-day ready, schedule an appointment with your NOAH provider today. Our team is here to help you stay healthy so you can cheer on your team for years to come.

Staying Healthy During the RSV and COVID Surge

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This winter, healthcare providers are seeing a significant rise in cases of Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) and COVID-19. These respiratory illnesses can be especially challenging for children, older adults, and individuals with weakened immune systems. But don’t worry—there are steps you can take to reduce your risk of getting sick and keep your family healthy.

What You Need to Know

RSV and COVID-19 are both highly contagious and spread through respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or talks. Common symptoms include coughing, fever, congestion, fatigue, and in severe cases, difficulty breathing. The viruses are particularly active during the colder months when people spend more time indoors in close proximity to others.

Tips to Stay Healthy

  1. Get Vaccinated: Updated COVID-19 vaccines and RSV immunizations (available for certain age groups) are your best defense. Speak with your NOAH provider about the right options for you and your family.
  2. Practice Good Hygiene: Wash your hands frequently with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. Use hand sanitizer when soap isn’t available.
  3. Wear a Mask: If you’re in crowded indoor spaces or around individuals at higher risk, wearing a mask can help prevent the spread of germs.
  4. Disinfect Surfaces: Regularly clean high-touch surfaces like doorknobs, phones, and countertops.
  5. Stay Home if You’re Sick: If you or your family members feel unwell, avoid going out and spreading germs to others.
  6. Boost Your Immune System: Maintain a healthy diet, stay hydrated, exercise regularly, and prioritize sleep.

Know When to Seek Help

If you or a loved one experience severe symptoms like difficulty breathing, chest pain, or confusion, seek medical attention immediately. Early intervention can prevent complications and improve recovery.

By taking these precautions, you can protect yourself and your loved ones from the seasonal surge of RSV and COVID-19. To stay ahead of your health this winter, schedule an appointment with your NOAH provider today. Together, we can keep you and our community safe and healthy!

Online Scheduling Now Available!

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NOAH patients can now schedule medical appointments online using MyChart!

MyChart is your all-in-one tool for managing your healthcare. With MyChart, you can view test results, request prescription refills, securely message your healthcare team, and now, book appointments online.

Established NOAH patients with a MyChart account can log in to schedule their next visit quickly and easily. New patients may also qualify for online scheduling, depending on their insurance provider and the type of appointment they need.

How to Register

To get started, visit the MyChart patient portal or the ‘MyChart – Patient Portal‘ page on our website. You’ll find step-by-step videos, FAQs, and other helpful resources to guide you through the registration and scheduling process.

We’re thrilled to provide this new feature, giving patients a more convenient way to access quality care whenever they need it.

To book a non-medical appointment, request an appointment here.

Already on MyChart?

Click here to login in and schedule an appointment.

Welcome New Board Member Mary Jung

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Get to know Mary Jung, what she brings to the NOAH board of directors, and all she hopes to accomplish while serving in this capacity!

Q: Can you tell us about your professional background and current role(s)?

A: I am a business and finance executive with over 30 years of experience in public, private, and non-profit sectors, specializing in community well-being and economic empowerment through higher education, economic development, and entrepreneurship. Currently, I serve as the Community Impact Director at HonorHealth, where I align community health strategies with health system initiatives to improve patient outcomes.

Q: What inspired you to join NOAH’s Board of Directors? 

A; I’m passionate about community health and supporting opportunities for individuals and families to thrive. NOAH’s commitment to providing comprehensive, accessible, and affordable healthcare inspires me, and it’s an honor to help transform the health of our community.

Q: What are you most looking forward to as a board member? 

A: I’m excited to serve the community and work with my fellow board members to help NOAH achieve its goals.

Q: What’s one fun or interesting fact about yourself that you’d like the NOAH community to know? 

A: I’ve lived in several places across the U.S., including New York and Hawaii. I’m excited to learn more about my new home, Arizona.

Q: Is there anything specific you would like to achieve or focus on during your tenure with NOAH? 

A: I hope to focus on addressing food insecurity in our community, as it is closely tied to negative health outcomes.

The NOAH Board of Directors is a mixed group of volunteers who contribute to the mission of transforming the health of our community. Patients from the communities we serve make up 51% of our board. Learn more about NOAH’s board of directors and how they drive the organization.

Welcome New Board Member John Safin

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Get to know John Safin, what he brings to the NOAH board of directors, and all he hopes to accomplish while serving in this capacity!

Q: Can you tell us about your professional background and current role(s)?

A: My entire career has focused on marketing and communications, whether that was as president of a business association, or in the hospitality or broadcast industry. For the past 18 years, I’ve been doing business consulting and economic development. My current role as Chief Encouragement Officer gives me the opportunity to provide services that show individuals and business owners how to reach their next level. 

Q: What inspired you to join NOAH’s Board of Directors? 

A: Two aspects of this role motivated me to get involved with the NOAH Board of Directors. NOAH literally provides life-saving services. Beyond that, NOAH’s team members enhance patient lives and lifestyles by embracing a total care approach to healthcare. Very few organizations make that level of impact on a community. The other motivating factor for being on NOAH’s board is the challenge it provides. I’ve served on boards, think tanks, and committees in both the private and public sectors, but only a few of those experiences come close to matching NOAH’s mission. My education, experience, and unique way of looking at things will be used like never before. I think this makes me an asset to help NOAH achieve its vision.

Q: What are you most looking forward to as a board member? 

A: There’s always something new to learn, whether that’s as a NOAH board member or a person living their life. My goal is always to be better than I was yesterday. I look forward to helping NOAH do the same.

Q: What’s one fun or interesting fact about yourself that you’d like the NOAH community to know? 

A: I play Xbox, like riding motorcycles, am a servant to my cat Stevens, and enjoy cartoons in addition to being a cute guy.

Q: Is there anything specific you would like to achieve or focus on during your tenure with NOAH? 

A: I’d like to achieve whatever is needed for NOAH to have the best possible future. Too many lives would be in turmoil without NOAH’s services.

The NOAH Board of Directors is a mixed group of volunteers who contribute to the mission of transforming the health of our community. Patients from the communities we serve make up 51% of our board. Learn more about NOAH’s board of directors and how they drive the organization.

What You Need to Know About the Listeria Outbreak

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Recently, health officials have raised concerns about a large Listeria outbreak connected to deli meats, marking the most significant outbreak since 2011. The outbreak has been linked to products distributed from a plant with unsanitary conditions, and while it may not directly affect all Arizona residents, it’s important to know the risks, especially for certain vulnerable groups.

What is Listeria?

Listeria is a type of bacteria that can cause an illness called listeriosis. This infection is typically caused by eating contaminated foods like deli meats, cheeses, and other ready-to-eat items. Deli meats, in particular, are more prone to Listeria contamination because the bacteria can thrive in cold temperatures and spread easily. The environment in which deli meats are processed, often involving high moisture and slicing equipment, provides the perfect conditions for bacteria to grow.

In addition to deli meats, Listeria can also be found in raw fruits and vegetables, which can become contaminated through soil, water, or unsanitary handling.

While many healthy people might not experience symptoms or only have mild issues such as diarrhea or fever, others can become seriously ill.

Who Should Be Cautious?

Certain groups are more vulnerable to severe effects of listeriosis, including:

  • Pregnant women: Listeria can lead to miscarriage, stillbirth, or serious infections in newborns.
  • Older adults: People over 65 may experience more severe symptoms, including blood infections and meningitis.
  • People with weakened immune systems: Those undergoing treatments like chemotherapy or who have chronic conditions should be cautious, as listeriosis can be life-threatening for them.

What Are the Symptoms?

Symptoms of listeriosis typically appear 1-4 weeks after eating contaminated food but may start as early as the same day or as late as 70 days after. Common signs include:

  • Fever
  • Muscle aches
  • Nausea or diarrhea
  • In more severe cases, especially in high-risk groups, symptoms can worsen to include confusion, loss of balance, and even convulsions.

How to Stay Safe

Though Arizona has been linked to this outbreak, not all products are affected. However, it’s important to:

  • Avoid deli meats and cheeses unless they are thoroughly cooked.
  • Refrigerate perishable items within two hours.
  • Follow proper food safety guidelines, such as keeping your refrigerator clean and setting it to 40°F or below.

What to Do If You’re Concerned

If you or a loved one is at higher risk and starts experiencing symptoms after eating deli meats or processed foods, it’s important to seek medical care. Early treatment with antibiotics can help prevent more serious complications. For any concerns, don’t hesitate to contact your NOAH healthcare provider. Staying informed and following food safety practices can greatly reduce your risk of listeriosis.

What to Know for Healthy Aging Month

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Our bodies change in many ways as we age. The more we know what to expect and how to manage any challenges, the better. NOAH offers comprehensive healthcare for patients of all ages, but since September is Healthy Aging Month, we are sharing useful tips and reminders for you and your loved ones.

Don’t Miss Annual Physicals

Annual physicals are an opportunity for you to discuss your health and wellness with your primary care provider. Medical providers will order age-appropriate tests and labs to get a full picture of your health. At NOAH we strongly encourage our Medicare patients to schedule their annual Medicare Wellness Visit to discuss health goals and recommendations.

Get Regular Check-Ups

If you aren’t feeling well, make an appointment to see your provider. Patients, especially aging patients, shouldn’t try to wait it out if there is something wrong. Having regular check-ups will keep you feeling well and catch any potentially serious conditions early.

Mental Health Matters

No matter your age, your mental health is important. In aging adults, depression can have a negative impact on health conditions like heart disease and stroke. Patient’s often underestimate depression and mental health concerns, but it is important to everyone’s overall health to make sure mental wellbeing is, managed appropriately.

Get Moving

More physical activity means a healthier you! Getting active can help delay, prevent, or manage many chronic diseases like diabetes and high cholesterol. Being more active can also help keep your bone density and strength. Any exercise is better than none, so just get moving!

Eat For Your Health

Being overweight or obese will seriously harm your overall health, particularly as you age. Eating a nutritious diet will help manage chronic conditions, keep you healthy, and even improve your mood. Consider adding more fresh fruits and vegetables to your meals, and always talk to your provider about any diet changes.

If you have trouble accessing or affording healthy, nutritious food, talk to NOAH. We can help!

Stay Social for Healthy Aging

A recent study found that older adults with more social activity had more positive moods, fewer negative feelings, and higher levels of physical activity. If you don’t have a social network, look for one through volunteer activities, at senior centers, at church, or other local community groups.

NOAH is here for you and your loved ones at any age. To learn more about healthy aging, comprehensive care, enrolling in Medicare or another insurance plan, access to healthy food and other resources, reach out to NOAH today at 480-882-4545 or make an appointment online.

Prescription Pick-up Now Available at All Locations

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NOAH’s Cholla Pharmacy now offers next day courier services to all NOAH Health Center locations.

To make sure you get your medications accurately and on time, here’s what you need to do:

For New Medications:

  • Let your provider or medical assistant know that you want NOAH’s Cholla Pharmacy to be your preferred pharmacy.
  • If you choose Cholla Health Center for pick-up:
    • Your medication will likely be ready for pick-up right away. The pharmacy is open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. and closed from 12:30 p.m. to 1 p.m. for lunch.
  • If you choose any other NOAH location for pick-up:
    • Your provider or medical assistant will request your medications be couriered to your selected NOAH location. Prescriptions ordered before 3 p.m. will be available for pick-up the following day. Medication can be picked up anytime during regular clinic operating hours (hours vary by location).
  • Please note that some medications may be out of stock or require a special order. NOAH’s Pharmacy will let you know if your medication will not be ready within the typical time frame.
  • Courier service is also not available for controlled substances.
  • If you want an update on your order, you can call the pharmacy at 480-903-3560.

For Existing Prescriptions:

If you already have prescriptions filled elsewhere, you can easily transfer them to NOAH’s Pharmacy by calling your provider. NOAH providers can be reached via MyChart or by calling 480-882-4545.

NOAH’s full-service pharmacy located at NOAH’s Cholla Health Center is open to anyone including NOAH patients and community members. For more information, you can reach our pharmacy at 480-903-3560.

NOAH and Molina Healthcare: Programs Benefiting our Community

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At NOAH, we are committed to improving the health and well-being of our community. Our partnership with Molina Healthcare has been vital in enhancing our services and reaching more individuals in need. We are proud to highlight some of the key programs and events that with support from Molina Healthcare have made a significant impact on our community.

Fresh for You Food Distribution System 

Addressing food insecurity and promoting healthy lifestyle choices are central to our mission at NOAH. Thanks to the generous funding from Molina Healthcare, NOAH purchased a bank of 16 refrigerated lockers for our Cholla Health Center. The Fresh for You food distribution program provides our food-insecure patients and community members with easy and dignified access to healthy produce and other nutritious items.

In collaboration with Farmbox Arizona and St. Mary’s Food Bank, we ensure a steady supply of locally grown fresh fruits and vegetables and shelf-stable items to fill these lockers. This partnership not only supports local agriculture but also guarantees that our patients receive the freshest and most nutritious options available. 

Since launching in late 2023, demand for our Fresh for You food distribution program has soared creating the need for even more food lockers. Molina Healthcare was quick to support this community need by funding additional food lockers doubling our distribution capacity to 32 food lockers by August 2024.  

Books for Kids

During well-child checks, children receive books generously donated by Molina Healthcare, available in either English or Spanish based on the family’s preference. These books are theirs to keep, encouraging reading at home and supporting literacy.

To make the experience enjoyable for the entire family, we also provide books for siblings. This ensures that if a sibling accompanies the child to the appointment, both children can enjoy a book, making visits to our health centers a positive and engaging experience for families.

Special Events

NOAHfest Carnival and Health Fair

Molina Healthcare was the presenting sponsor two years in a row for our 2023 and 2024 NOAHfest events. These free one-day community events featured a day of fun, entertainment, and health at NOAH’s Cholla Health Center in Scottsdale. 

Thanks to Molina’s contribution, NOAH was able to offer this event to hundreds of individuals and families who enjoyed a variety of activities, including inflatable and tabletop games, face painting, crafts, and giveaways, as well as information and health screenings from NOAH providers. 

Connecting with patients and community members about healthcare in this non-traditional way created an opportunity to educate more than 800 participants about NOAH services and community resources.  

Back-to-School Wellness Events

Back to School season is a great time to ensure students are up to date on vaccinations, on-track for growth and development, and ready for the new school year. With support from Molina Healthcare, NOAH was able to fund the post-COVID-19 return of special back to school wellness events in 2023. Over 700 children benefitted from our increased appointment availability, extended Saturday schedules, and free resources to get the school year started.  

Community Care Day

In 2024, Molina and NOAH are going beyond back to school with resources available for the whole family during a special Community Care Day event on July 27 at NOAH’s Cholla Health Center. Patients and community members are invited to stop by for free school supplies, diapers, nutrition tips, health information, and more while supplies last.

Our partnership with Molina Healthcare has enabled us to launch and sustain impactful programs, addressing critical needs such as food insecurity and community engagement. We are deeply grateful for Molina’s support and look forward to continuing our collaborative efforts to improve the health and well-being of our community.