Are Politics Stressing You Out?

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In our increasingly connected world, political conversations can quickly become overwhelming, leading to heightened stress or anxiety. In fact, a February 2024 Pew poll found that 65% of U.S. adults always or often felt exhausted by politics. Whether it’s the constant news updates or discussions with loved ones, it’s crucial to recognize how politics can affect your mental health and find effective ways to manage that stress.

Recognize Your Limits

Engaging with political news and conversations is important, but too much exposure can lead to heightened stress. Be mindful of how much time you spend reading or watching political content. Consider limiting the time you spend on social media or watching the news each day to avoid information overload.

Focus on What You Can Control

Political outcomes can sometimes feel out of our hands, and focusing on things beyond our control can amplify stress. Try to focus on areas where you can make a small yet mighty impact, whether that’s voting, engaging in community service, or having respectful discussions. Shifting your energy toward productive actions helps reduce feelings of helplessness.

Practice Self-Care and Mindfulness

Taking care of your mental health is critical, especially when external stressors are high. Engage in grounding exercises like meditation, deep breathing, or taking regular breaks to relax. Self-care can also involve spending time outdoors, enjoying hobbies, or simply taking a few moments each day to disconnect from political content.

By setting healthy boundaries, focusing on what you can control, and practicing mindfulness, you can navigate political discussions with less stress and a more balanced outlook. For more resources and tips on managing your mental health, visit our Mental Health Matters website. Remember, managing your mental health should always come first! If you need additional support, consider scheduling an appointment with one of NOAH’s compassionate counselors to help guide you through challenging times.

Voting Matters

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REGISTER TO VOTE
VOTER EDUCATION

VOTER REGISTRATION DEADLINE – OCT. 7


Why Vote?

Voting allows each of us to have a say in shaping the policies and future of our communities, cities, and country. When we vote, we select representatives who make key decisions that shape laws and policies affecting our daily lives. Voting is not only a right but also an essential part of being an engaged citizen.

Health Equity

At NOAH, we are committed to providing quality healthcare for everyone. Health equity means that all people—regardless of race, gender, sexual orientation, disability, income, or location—have fair access to healthcare and the resources they need to achieve their highest potential for health.

Statistically, the populations that are farthest from achieving health equity are the populations who are underrepresented at the polls. Many don’t or cannot vote for a variety of reasons including:

  • Not registered or improperly registered to vote
  • Unable to form an opinion based on available information
  • Distrust in the system
  • Belief that one vote cannot make a difference

Historical Voting Data

Voter participation data is limited, however, using metrics from Satcher Health Leadership Institute at the Morehouse School of Medicine’s Health Equity Tracker, we were able to compare number of votes and other variables in three ethnic groups for U.S. Citizens, age 18 and up living in Arizona.  

Population Eligible to Vote

This chart shows the number of people who are eligible to vote in these population groups.

Voting Population

Now, we can see the portion of each population that is voting.

Uninsured

Layering in the number of people who do not have health insurance we see a higher percentage of uninsured Hispanic and Latino individuals, but far fewer are voting. How might a proposition for affordable health insurance perform in this scenario?

Avoided Care Due to Cost

The same issue applies in this chart that shows the number of people in each population that avoided healthcare due to cost.

Poverty Level and Below

When we look at all these factors—voter turnout, uninsured rates, healthcare avoidance due to cost, and poverty—we see that many who are affected by these issues may not have their voices heard.

Poor Representation

While this is a small sample of health disparities and voting populations, it helps illustrate how the majority vote in this scenario may not fully represent the opinions of those who are impacted most.

A Make-Believe Election

Using some made-up data, let’s see how voter-participation shakes out in an election. For example, NOAH decides to add a desert animal to their pack and 100 people are eligible to vote. By viewing the expected votes on the left hand side of the graphic below, you can easily see the rattlesnake is the expected winner, but watch what happens as the votes are tallied:

Just Vote

Regardless of how you vote or what influences your choices, your vote is your chance to be heard.  As Thomas Jefferson once said,

“We do not have government by the majority. We have government by the majority who participate.”

Thomas Jefferson

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 to check the status of 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.

National Health Center Week – Ways to Support NOAH

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In celebration of National Health Center Week, August 4-10, we are spreading the word about health centers, how they function, and how you can help us make a difference in the communities we serve.

What is a Health Center?

According to the Healthcare Advocacy Network, there are four main components every health center must have in order to operate as a Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC).

Organizations must:

  1. Be located in areas of high need: Designated as medically underserved areas or populations by the federal government
  2. Offer a comprehensive set of services: Based on community needs, health centers offer medical, dental, vision, behavioral health, and enabling services
  3. Be open to everyone: Regardless of insurance status or ability to pay, and offer sliding fee scale options to low-income patients
  4. Have patient-majority governing boards: At least 51% of every health center board of directors must be made up of patients

By meeting the above criteria along with lots of other detailed requirements, health centers can be designated as FQHCs. This designation makes health centers like NOAH eligible to receive federal grant funding.

Are FQHCs Funded by the Government?

Not entirely. FQHCs have been around for nearly 60 years and while healthcare has changed a lot in the last six decades, health centers have too. Here’s a look at how FQHCs are funded today:

  • Grants and contracts consist of all government allocations including limited-time funding like COVID-19 relief dollars.
  • Patients includes all dollars exchanged for patient services billed through medicaid (AHCCCS), medicare, private insurance, and self-pay options.
  • Other refers to individual and corporate donations.

What is the Impact of FQHCs?

Health center visits nationwide saw a five-year growth rate of nearly 18% from 2015 to 2020. In Arizona the number of visits grew by more than 60% while health center locations have grown by 40% both locally and nationally. This shows a major need for health center facility growth in Arizona. At NOAH, we’ve addressed this growth by increasing telehealth services and expanding the size and capacity of our clinics. In January 2024, NOAH’s Cholla Health Center expanded to include pharmacy services. Additionally, our Copperwood Health Center’s services were extended to the new Copperwood II Health Center in late 2023.

What Can You Do to Help?

Vote in Every Election

Health centers rely on government funding for a significant portion of our operating costs. This funding is decided on by our elected officials and/or guidelines set through legislation. Both of these factors are determined by YOU, your neighbors, your friends, your family, and your opinions when you vote. Take the opportunity to share your voice by voting in every election. Voting can be complicated but there are lots of unbiased resources to help explain who and what is on the ballot in terms that are easy to understand. If you need more information on how to vote or register to vote, check out vote411.org.  

Donate or Support Businesses Who Do

While the piece for “Other Funding” is seemingly small in comparison to the rest of the pie, it accounts for a lot of budget dollars. Donating doesn’t have to mean writing a check or dropping a $20 bill in a collection box. There are lots of other ways to donate. Programs like Fry’s Community Rewards gives a portion of what you spend to an organization of choice in your community. There’s also the Arizona Charitable Tax Credit which essentially lets you allocate up to $841 (married filing jointly) or up to $421 (individual) from your taxes to NOAH as a qualifying non-profit organization.

Tell Everyone You Know

Spread the word about health centers, our impact, and all the ways to support our efforts in each community. It’s as easy as hitting “share” on social media, asking your community to sign up for fundraising opportunities that benefit NOAH, or telling your friends and family about the NOAH health center in your neighborhood.

Become a Patient

Choose a health center for your family’s healthcare needs. NOAH offers high-quality integrated healthcare in multiple locations throughout the valley as well as telehealth options for virtual appointments wherever you are.  Everyone is welcome at NOAH and it is our privilege to serve you. Request an appointment today.

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.

Juneteenth: A Celebration of Freedom and Progress

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Juneteenth, observed annually on June 19, signifies an important moment in American history — the emancipation of enslaved African Americans. The holiday’s roots trace back to Galveston, Texas, where on June 19, 1865, Union soldiers, led by Maj. Gen. Gordon Granger, arrived to announce the end of the Civil War and enforce the emancipation of all enslaved individuals, a full two and a half years after President Abraham Lincoln’s Emancipation Proclamation.

The History of Juneteenth

On the night before January 1, 1863, known as “Freedom’s Eve,” enslaved and free African Americans gathered to await news that the Emancipation Proclamation had taken effect. At midnight, enslaved people in Confederate states were declared legally free. However, in Confederate-controlled areas, this could not be enforced. In Texas, the westernmost Confederate state, enslaved people remained in bondage until June 19, 1865, when 2,000 Union troops arrived in Galveston Bay and announced their freedom. This day became known as “Juneteenth.”

The Significance of Juneteenth

For more than 150 years, Juneteenth has been an important day for African American communities. It stands for freedom, strength, and the ongoing struggle for equal rights. This historic day is not only a reminder of the past but also a celebration of African American culture, heritage, and achievements. Juneteenth highlights the importance of education, reflection, and community, while serving as a reminder to keep fighting for justice.

Juneteenth: A Federal Holiday

On June 17, 2021, Juneteenth was officially recognized as a federal holiday, making it a national day of remembrance and celebration.

Celebrating Juneteenth is a testament to NOAH’s mission to provide compassionate, comprehensive health care to everyone, respecting and honoring the unique experiences and histories that each individual brings to our community. As we celebrate Juneteenth, we hope to reinforce our dedication to creating an environment where every person is treated with dignity and respect, and where diversity is celebrated as a strength.

Prescription Delivery to NOAH Health Centers

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NOAH is thrilled to let you know that we’ve made some changes to make getting your prescription medications even easier.

If you’re part of NOAH’s Sliding Fee Scale Program and want to keep getting your medications at a discounted rate, you have four convenient options: you can pick them up at NOAH’s Cholla Pharmacy or have them delivered to NOAH’s Desert Mission, Palomino, or Copperwood II Health Center for pick-up.

Additionally, prescription delivery to NOAH’s Copperwood II Health Center is available for Sliding Fee Scale and insured patients.

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 may be ready for pick-up as soon as the same day.
  • If you choose Copperwood II Health Center, Desert Mission Health Center, or Palomino Health Center for pick-up:
    • Your provider or medical assistant will take care of the details and ensure your prescription is ready for pick-up the next business day if ordered before 3 p.m.
  • If you want to check the status of your order for any pick-up location, 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.

Please note controlled substances are not available for prescription delivery services.

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.

Thank You, Dr. Jackie Doris

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There are moments that require us to reflect, to celebrate, and to say farewell. This week, we honor the career of Dr. Jackie Doris, a cherished member of our NOAH family upon her May 1 retirement.

Dr. Doris’s journey into medicine was inspired by her experiences at a young age. Growing up as the daughter of immigrants, she learned the value of diligence and education early on. However, it was a pivotal moment—the hospitalization of her father following a heart attack—that left an impact on Dr. Doris. Witnessing the dedication and kindness of the medical staff during this challenging time steered Dr. Doris towards her calling in medicine.

Throughout her 30 year career, Dr. Doris has been committed to providing personalized and compassionate care to countless lives within our community. To her patients, she was not just a physician but a trusted partner in their health journey, guiding them with empathy and expertise.

Congratulations, Dr. Doris, on your retirement, and may this new journey be filled with happiness, cherished moments, and new adventures. We thank you for all that you’ve done for NOAH. 

If you’re under the care of Dr. Doris at NOAH’s Midtown location, rest assured that you’ll receive excellent care from the Midtown’s other highly skilled providers: Andres Hernandez MD, Hannah Gammage NP, Tahirah Abdul-Rahman DO, and Johnathan Navarro PA, who will continue the standard of treatment you’ve come to expect.