Skin Care Tips for Teens

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“Adolescence can be a tough time – especially on your teen’s skin! Almost 8 out of 10 teenagers will have acne at some point,” says NOAH pediatrician Dr. Deborah Bauer. This is because the changing hormones cause an increase in oil production and can lead to clogged pores. This can happen all over your child’s body, not just their face. And while acne isn’t dangerous for their health, it can cause scars and decrease their self-esteem.

Here are a few pointers for home care of your teen’s skin:

  • Keep it clean: They should wash their face with warm water and a gentle cleanser twice per day. CeraVe, Cetaphil and Dove make reasonably-priced and effective cleansers.
  • Be gentle: Harsh scrubbing or rough washcloths are not recommended. Your teen should be using just their hands to gently rub in the cleanser and rinse off.  Very hot water or very cold water should not be used.
  • Stick to the routine: Oily skin and acne can last for months or years, so it’s important to have a good skin routine to minimize the effects. Remind your teen to always remove make-up before sleeping.  And change sheets and pillowcases frequently.
  • Don’t pop pimples: Although it’s tempting, squeezing pimples will only make things worse. Not only will they introduce more oil onto their skin from their hands, but this will probably push the oil deeper into the skin and cause inflammation and swelling.
  • Keep moisturizing: Drying out their face can actually lead to more acne because their body will try to produce even more oils to keep their face from being so dry. Make sure the moisturizer bottle says “oil free” or “noncomedogenic” on it so it doesn’t clog their pores more.
  • Use sun block: This is important for every child, but especially for those with acne. The sun’s rays can irritate skin and make acne and scars much, much worse. Make sure the sunscreen is at least SPF 15.

Some kids even need prescription medication to help manage acne, and our NOAH Pediatricians are here to help with that too!

For more information about taking care of your skin, visit the American Academy of Dermatology.

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.

Should I see a DO, MD, PA, or NP?

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In healthcare, understanding the different types of providers and their qualifications can help you make more informed decisions about your care. While doctors, nurse practitioners, and physician assistants share some responsibilities, they also have distinct differences that may influence which is best for your family’s needs.

To help you compare, review the chart below for an overview on the requirements and credentials for each position.

Family Medicine, Internal Medicine, and Pediatrics

DO: Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine – DOs use the same medical techniques as MDs but place a stronger emphasis on holistic health and preventive care, considering the whole person—mind, body, and emotions—in their treatment approach. DOs have all of the same responsibilities and rights as an MD, with an additional 200 hours of training in osteopathic manipulative treatment. Some DOs may take a holistic approach to medicine, but not all of them will.

MD: Doctor of Medicine – MDs practice conventional or biomedicine forms of medicine and are licensed to treat symptoms and diseases, as well as perform specialty surgeries. MDs are trained experts for youth, adult, and geriatric care across the spectrum. 

NP: Nurse Practitioner – Nurse practitioners treat the whole person and guide each patient to make smart health and lifestyle choices. NPs have a nursing type training that is based on diagnosis and treatment of patients, as well as a focus on psychosocial support and counseling.

PA: Physician Associate – Physician associates (also called physician assistants) have extensive medical training to diagnose illness, develop and manage treatment plans, prescribe medications, and serve as a patient’s primary healthcare provider. They see patients on their own just like a doctor or nurse practitioner does but must be under the general supervision of a doctor.

Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (DO)Medical Doctor (MD)Nurse Practitioner (NP)Physician Associate (PA)
Education/DegreeBachelor’s Degree and Doctor of Osteopathy + 200 hours of training in osteopathic manipulative treatment (OMT)Bachelor’s Degree and Doctor of Medicine (MD) Bachelor’s and Master’s Degree in Nursing: Nurse Practitioner LicenseBachelor’s and Master’s Degree in Physician Associate; Physician Associate-Certified (PA-C)
Total Post High School Education8 years8 years6-8 years6-7 years
Residency3-9 years3-8 yearsNoneOptional 1-2 years
RecertificationAnnual board certification maintenance requiredAnnual board certification maintenance required1000 professional practice hours and 12 continued education credits annually OR exam every 5 years100 education hours every 2 years and exam every 10 years
SupervisionIndependentIndependentIndependentMust be supervised by an MD/DO
Prescribe MedicationsYesYesYesYes, when supervised and delegated by a physician
Perform Physical ExamsYesYesYesYes
Order and Interpret TestsYesYesYesYes
Perform SurgeriesYesYesAssistAssist
Deliver BabiesYesYesYesYes
Diagnose and Treat IllnessYesYesYesYes
Best for who?EveryoneEveryoneEveryoneEveryone
This chart is intended to provide an overview of typical education requirements and responsibilities for physicians practicing in the U.S. Individual qualifications and permissions may vary.

Understanding these differences can help you make an informed decision when selecting a healthcare provider. To learn more about our NOAH providers, visit our provider care team page and find the provider with the credentials that best meet your needs. If you’re still unsure about which type of provider is right for you, don’t worry—just request an appointment, and we’ll work together to ensure you connect with the provider who best meets your needs.

Heart-Healthy Foods for September

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As we transition into the crisp days of fall, it’s an excellent time to focus on heart health by incorporating nutritious, seasonal foods into our diets. September brings a bounty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and other heart-healthy options that can help support cardiovascular wellness. By making mindful choices, we can enjoy delicious meals while also taking proactive steps towards a healthier heart.

Incorporating the right foods into your diet can make a significant difference in your heart health. Here are some heart-healthy options to enjoy this September:

Fruits

  • Apples: High in fiber and antioxidants.
  • Pears: Rich in fiber, which can help lower cholesterol levels.
  • Grapes: Contain resveratrol, which can help reduce inflammation.
  • Plums: Good source of vitamins and antioxidants.

Vegetables

  • Kale: Packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.
  • Broccoli: High in fiber and vitamins C and K.
  • Brussels Sprouts: Contain fiber and antioxidants.
  • Carrots: Good source of beta-carotene and fiber.

Whole Grains

  • Oats: Can help lower cholesterol levels.
  • Quinoa: High in protein and fiber.
  • Barley: Helps reduce cholesterol and improve heart health.
  • Brown Rice: Rich in fiber and beneficial nutrients.

Nuts and Seeds

  • Walnuts: Good source of omega-3 fatty acids.
  • Almonds: Rich in healthy fats and fiber.
  • Flaxseeds: High in omega-3s and fiber.
  • Chia Seeds: Contain omega-3s, fiber, and protein.

Fish

  • Salmon: High in omega-3 fatty acids.
  • Mackerel: Another great source of omega-3s.
  • Sardines: Rich in heart-healthy fats.
  • Trout: Packed with omega-3 fatty acids.

Legumes

  • Lentils: High in fiber and protein.
  • Chickpeas: Great for heart health due to their fiber content.
  • Black Beans: Contain antioxidants and fiber.
  • Kidney Beans: Rich in nutrients that support heart health.

Healthy Fats

  • Olive Oil: Contains monounsaturated fats that are good for the heart.
  • Avocado: Packed with heart-healthy monounsaturated fats.
  • Canola Oil: Another good source of monounsaturated fats.

Herbs and Spices

  • Garlic: Can help lower blood pressure and cholesterol.
  • Turmeric: Contains anti-inflammatory properties.
  • Ginger: Helps reduce inflammation and improve blood circulation.

Next Steps

Taking care of your heart involves more than just a balanced diet; regular check-ups and personalized medical advice are also crucial. At NOAH, our healthcare providers are dedicated to helping you achieve optimal heart health. If you have any concerns or need guidance on maintaining a heart-healthy lifestyle, request an appointment with a NOAH provider today. Together, we can create a wellness plan tailored to your needs.

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.

Seasonal Affective Disorder in the Sunshine? You Bet!

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Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is a type of depression that happens or changes with the season, with symptoms lasting 4-5 months every year. And while many people associate SAD with dark, cold, winter months, people living in sunny Central Arizona can and do suffer from SAD just like everyone else, but ours usually happens when temperatures heat up.

Get ready! Things are about to heat up—but probably not your mood. 

Desert dwellers, like residents in the Valley of the Sun, tend to thrive in the winter months engaging in time outdoors. However, when summer months come, the extreme heat and sun can take a toll on our bodies and our mood. Millions of Americans suffer from SAD but may not recognize the have the condition.

Seasonal Affective Disorder Symptoms

Symptoms may differ based on season and for summer Seasonal Affective Disorder, symptoms may include:

  • Trouble sleeping
  • Poor appetite
  • Restlessness
  • Irritability
  • Anxiety

To read more about symptoms, visit the National Institutes of Mental Health on Seasonal Affective Disorder. Additionally, if you already have depression or anxiety, this seasonal change could worsen your symptoms.  

Since the timing of SAD is predictable with the seasons, you may be able to get ahead of by doing preventative care to help with symptoms. Ways to reduce or help symptoms can include talking with your NOAH primary care provider, a counselor, a nutritionist, or a psychiatric provider. One of the best things you and your counselor or other provider can help you with is developing coping skills and understanding the signs and symptoms that may be helpful to jump start your seasonal self-care routine.

For most people, staying cool, regular physical activity, adequate sleep, and socialization can reduce symptoms.

What Should I Expect When Getting Tested for HIV?

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Taking the test is taking care of you. Your HIV testing experience might be a little different depending on where you get tested. Regardless, the decision to prioritize your health through taking proactive steps is a significant milestone that should be acknowledged and celebrated.

Who Should Get Tested for HIV?

The CDC recommends that everyone between the ages of 13 and 64 should get tested for HIV at least once as part of routine health care. People should get tested more often when they have had more than one sex partner or are having sex with someone whose sexual history they don’t know.

HIV Testing at a NOAH Healthcare Facility

A medical provider visit is required to get your HIV test at a NOAH healthcare facility. Your test can be part of your routine labs, or a point of care rapid test done by a finger stick. Depending on the test you may be able to wait for results, but result times can vary.

Your health care provider or counselor may talk with you about your risk factors, answer any questions you might have, and discuss next steps with you.

Remember, there is no concept of a “wrong” outcome for an HIV test. Your value as an individual is not dependent on the result of the test.

How Much Will an HIV Test Cost?

As required by the Affordable Care Act, HIV screenings are covered by most health insurance and Medicaid programs.

Can an HIV Test Detect the Virus Immediately After Exposure?

No HIV test can detect HIV immediately after exposure. Discuss your risks with your healthcare provider and timing for getting your HIV test. Please note If you think you’ve been exposed to HIV in the last 72 hours, talk to your health care provider about post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP), right away.

Now more than ever, people living with HIV can lead long healthy lives with proper treatment. For more details on HIV treatment and prevention, call 480-882-4545 or request an appointment online at one of our NOAH Health Center locations.