Online Scheduling Now Available!

/in

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.

Join the NOAH Patient Advisory Council – Your Voice Matters

/in

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 twelve month period. 

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

Patient Advisory Council Member Application

Welcome New Board Member Mary Jung

/in

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 diverse 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

/in

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 diverse 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.

Are Politics Stressing You Out?

/in ,

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

/in

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

/in ,

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

/in ,

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

/in

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

/in

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.