Austin MD Jan/Feb 2016 by Austin MD Magazine

JAN/FEB 2016

WHERE TO DINE OUT THIS NEW YEAR WHILE

STICKING TO YOUR HEALTH AND WELLNESS GOALS

All the single ladies (and men) meet the bachelors and bachelorettes FOR THIS YEAR’S

DATE A DOC CHARITY AUCTION

A NEW YEAR A NEW YOU ISSUE UPGRADE YOUR BRAIN FOR

LIFE-CHANGING TRANSFORMATIONS THIS YEAR

WE’VE CHOSEN AUSTIN’S MOST ELIGIBLE DOCTORS, MEET THEM HERE

A NEW WAY TO MAKE DINNER WITH

fresh ingredients DELIVERED TO YOUR DOOR

 WHY YOUR

NEW YEAR’S RESOLUTIONS FAIL AND STRATEGIES TO MAKE THEM STICK

A U S T I N MD M A G A Z I N E . C O M

CONTENTS JA N UA RY /F E BRUA RY 2 016

AUSTIN M DM AGAZINE JA N UA RY/ F EB RUARY 2016

PUBLISHER

Angela Strickland EDITOR

Nicole Carbon ART DIRECTOR

Elisa Giordano

ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE

Davina Bruno

WEB DESIGNER

Brandon Tipton

PHOTOGRAPHER

Steve Dement

CONTRIBUTING EDITORS

Jake Harding Malena Manning Samantha Schak

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

This year’s Date A Doc Charity Auction event is getting steamy with these hot and single bachelors and bachelorettes

30 HEALTHY IDEAS

Austin’s professional matchmaker gives date night ideas that are out the box and healthy

42 STEPS TO CHANGING YOUR BEHAVIOR

An innovative way to make your New Years resolutions stick

54 HELLO FRESH

Make making dinner easy – Hello Fresh delivers right to your door and you get to take the credit for a delicious homemade meal

DEPARTMENTS 08 18 32 36 38 40 42 44 48 54 56

NEW YEAR, NEW YOU DATE A DOC LOCAL LIFESTYLE MEDICAL PHYSICAL THERAPY HEALTH MENTAL HEALTH SPORTS HEALTH & BEAUTY DINING & NUTRITION DINING

A U S T I N MD M A G A Z I N E . C O M

Jon Black Dr. Phyllis Books Davina Bruno Nicole Carbon Omar Dyess Sam Jackson Kyle Jerome Brad Kennington Dr. Shirat Ling Dr. Srinand Mandyam Julia McCurley Bob Pena Dr. Alina Sholar Ram R. Vasudevan M.D. Katherine Voss

Cover photo: Steve Dement

www.AustinMDmagazine.com

For adver tising and/or editorial information, please call Angela Strickland at 512-506-1248 or email angela@AustinMDmagazine com.

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Raising the Standard of Spine Care in Austin Austin NeuroSpine is at the forefront of minimally invasive, innovative techniques used to correct and repair spinal disorders.

To learn more about Dr. Vasudevan who brings a combination of surgical skills and a top academic background to every patient he sees visit,

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5300 BEE CAVE ROAD | BUILDING 1, SUITE 220 | AUSTIN, TEXAS 78746 A U S T I N MD M A G A Z I N E . C O M

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Licensed Insured Agent

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PUBLISHER’S LETTER

WITH THIS ISSUE WE, AT AUSTIN MD MAGAZINE, WANT TO HELP YOU MAKE 2016 YOUR BEST AND HEALTHIEST YEAR YET! 2016 HAS BEEN A BUSY YEAR FOR US SO FAR, WE HOSTED OUR FIRST-EVER SENIOR HEALTH FAIR ON JANUARY 7, AND ARE PROUD TO SAY IT WAS AN OVERWHELMING SUCCESS. A big thank you to all of our sponsors, partners, and the seniors who came out to learn more about healthy living and to enjoy some of the free yoga, dance, and painting classes while getting moving in the new year. We are also looking forward to this year’s Date a Doc Charity Auction on February 5. We will be auctioning some of the most eligible doctors in Austin to raise money for Any Baby Can, an organization that works so hard to support kids and their families struggling with long term illnesses. We look forward to bringing you more health and medical information and will continue to be a resource for you in the new year. Here’s to continuing to keep Austin well in 2016!

PUBLISHER /CEO

HealthMarkets Insurance Agency is the d/b/a, or assumed name, of Insphere Insurance Solutions, Inc. which is licensed as an insurance agency in all 50 states and the District of columbia. Not all agents are licensed to sell all products. Service and product availability varies by state. HMIA000120 A U S T I N MD M A G A Z I N E . C O M

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WOULD LIKE TO THANK ALL OF OUR SPONSORS FOR THEIR SUPPORT IN MAKING OUR FIRST SENIOR HEALTH FAIR A HUGE SUCCESS.

Thank you for being our partner

Yoga Meditation Group

A U S T I N MD M A G A Z I N E . C O M

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A U S T I N MD M A G A Z I N E . C O M

NEW YEAR  NEW YOU

GREATER RESOLUTION Making New Year’s resolutions stick BY JON BLACK

UNDERSTAND YOUR BEHAVIOR

BE SPECIFIC

MONITOR PROGRESS

TEAMWORK

DON’T GET DISCOURAGED

Brad Kennington, Austin therapist, says one of the keys to a successful resolution is, “understanding the behavior to be changed.” Such behaviors, he explains, usually respond to a legitimate need. “The key is to develop other, healthier behaviors to meet that need.”

The phrasing of resolutions can help or hinder success. Rather than stating a general goal, use the resolution to define steps for achieving that goal. Even consider using specific metrics. For example, rather than resolving “to lose weight,” include joining a gym and working out a set number of days each week in the wording. Dr. Ling warns against “the extreme, unattainable goal.” She suggests smaller, reasonable goals instead.

Being aware of progress and what is working or not working is key to a resolution’s success. Each day, reflect on how choices supported, or didn’t support, the resolution. Some people find keeping a daily “resolution journal” helpful. It’s a great way to stay honest and may help reveal factors encouraging or undermining success.

Having a partner or a support network is vital for resolutions. Dr. Ling advises, “avoiding people who may be a negative influence on your bad habits, unless they agree to help you meet your goals.”

The destination is what matters, not the journey. Slipping up for a day, week, or even month doesn’t have to be the end of a resolution. Refocus willpower, reflect on ways to strengthen efforts, and start again.

Specific application of the techniques presented above varies from resolution to resolution. Additionally, particular resolutions often have specific tactics to facilitate success.

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RESOLUTION GUIDE

ew Year’s resolutions are a great American tradition. Unfortunately, so is failing to keep them. While as many as 40 percent of Americans make resolutions, according to a University of Scranton study only 8 percent keep them. Fortunately, success or failure is not a matter of chance. There are techniques which increase the odds of sticking to resolutions and achieving goals. Many common New Year’s resolutions are related to health and wellness – getting in shape, losing weight, kicking a habit, or even improving your social life. Dr. Shirat Ling, an Austin physician, says she often advises patients regarding health-related resolutions and urges people to talk to their doctors about health and wellness related resolutions. Here, as a holiday present from Austin MD, are suggestions for keeping those resolutions and enjoying a healthier, happier 2016. No matter what the resolution, some techniques yield results. Keep focused. The more resolutions made, the less likely that any of them will be kept. There will be other New Years. Pick one or two important resolutions and save the rest for next year.

LOSING WEIGHT/IMPROVING FITNESS Viewing success as a commitment to an ongoing lifestyle change rather than meeting a one-time target is essential for these resolutions. Defining the terms can also have a huge impact on success. Instead of a general resolution to lose weight or get healthy, consider specific targets addressing both diet and exercise. For diet, resolve to work with a dietitian or set a specific target for caloric intake. Dining out can be a threat to diets, meet that head on by resolving to only eat out once a week or save half of restaurant portions as leftovers.

RESOLUTION GUIDE

RATHER THAN STATING A GENERAL GOAL, USE THE RESOLUTION TO DEFINE STEPS FOR ACHIEVING THAT GOAL.

IMPROVING YOUR SOCIAL LIFE Another popular resolution category involves improving one’s social life. There is extensive research linking a satisfying social life with general health and wellness. As a 2014 Mayo Clinic post put it, “Good friends are good for your health.” The benefits of an active social life include improving self-confidence, reducing stress, and providing a support network, all of which are linked to health. The Mayo Clinic also advises that, “quality counts more than quantity.” Specifically, “While it’s good to cultivate a diverse network of friends and acquaintances, you also want to nurture a few truly close friends who will be there for you

through thick and thin.” Choosing the right peer group can also provide reinforcement for other resolutions, such as those related to regular exercise or kicking bad habits like smoking. As Kennington, the therapist, points out, “Crucial in the change process is developing relationships that will support the new behavior.” Building a social calendar around favorite interests and activities is a sound technique for sticking to these resolutions. Following through on social engagements is easier if it’s something you enjoy doing. In the age of the Internet, sites such as Austin360.com, FaceBook, or Meetup. com, make it even easier to connect with like-minded individuals.

KICKING THOSE HABITS

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RESOLUTION GUIDE

There are more resources to quit smoking than ever before and those should be part of such a resolution. Have a conversation with your doctor about whether prescription medications to stop smoking are right for you. Nicotine replacement products such as patches, gum, or lozenges allow for unlearning the mechanical habit of smoking while weening the body off of nicotine. Many people experience benefits from therapies such as counseling, acupuncture, or hypnosis. For some people, vaping or e-cigarettes are helpful gateways to quitting. Be mindful the ultimate goal is to quit, not switch nicotine sources. Also remember data on the health benefits, or lack thereof, of vaping versus smoking is ambiguous and contradictory. Dr. Ling recommends smokers set a fixed number of cigarettes per day and work downward weekly, “without bumming them off someone or buying more,” she emphasizes. To cut down drinking, setting specific targets is crucial. All beverages are not created equal. One beer, one glass of wine, and one shot of liquor have roughly equivalent amounts of alcohol. Because of carbonation and lower alcohol content, beer can

RESOLUTION GUIDE

create a sensation of fullness sooner. Resolving to only drink while eating can leverage the same principle. Drinking slowly can also help. Also consider setting specific parameters in resolutions, such as only drinking during specific days or situations. To stop drinking entirely, a variety of prescription medications are now available. Talk with a doctor to see if they are appropriate. Though it may seem obvious, resolve to get all alcohol and barware out of the home and keep it out. If you feel you have a drinking problem, don’t handle it with a New Year’s resolution, seek professional help. The urge to smoke or drink is often strengthened by specific situations. Coffee and alcohol are common catalysts for the urge to smoke. Stress and social gatherings are frequent triggers for both smoking and drinking. Identifying personal triggers and building mitigators into resolutions helps avoid this pitfall. Stay away from triggers until the urge to indulge has been kicked. Some triggers, like stress, can’t be avoided entirely, but alternatives can be built into resolutions. “Find another source of stress relief, such as exercise or meditation,” says Dr. Ling. Focusing on the positive in resolutions encourages success. Frame them to emphasize what is gained, not what is lost. Be proud about feeling healthier or resolve to do something fun with the money saved by kicking habits. According to Dr. Ling, cutting out one cigarette a day saves about two dollars a week, numbers which add up significantly over a year. Remember, they’re called habits for a reason. Slipping up occasionally doesn’t mean a resolution has failed. Gather your resources and give it another try.

THERE ARE MORE RESOURCES TO QUIT SMOKING THAN EVER BEFORE AND THOSE SHOULD BE PART OF SUCH A RESOLUTION.

About the Author Dr. Shirat Ling has been in medical practice for 16 years in the fields of Family Medicine and now Cosmetic Medicine. She performs all medical cosmetic procedures in her practice, striving for a natural appearance to match your youthful inner self. Schedule your consultation online with Dr. Ling. For more information visit, www.innatebeauty.com A U S T I N MD M A G A Z I N E . C O M

NEW YEAR  NEW YOU

STEPPING UP YOUR IMMUNITY IN 2016 Dr. Ling shares ways to boost your body and immune system BY DR. SHIRAT LING

A HEALTHY, BALANCED LIFESTYLE IS YOUR BEST BET TO KEEP YOUR IMMUNITY INTACT.

SOME SUPPLEMENTS THAT CAN BE USEFUL FOR IMMUNITY INCLUDE: Aloe vera. There is some evidence that topical aloe vera is helpful for minor burns, wounds, or frostbite. Echinacea. Most studies have not been well-designed, but one large study found it did not affect the rate of cold infections or the progress and severity of a cold.

A U S T I N MD M A G A Z I N E . C O M

Garlic. In laboratory tests, garlic has worked against bacteria, viruses, and fungi, but it is not well studied in humans. Ginseng. Again, no conclusive studies, but there is currently some research by the NCCAM. Licorice root. Most studies have been done in combination with other herbs, so they are inconclusive. Probiotics. The direct connection between probiotics and improving immune function has not been made. Science has not shown whether taking probiotics will replenish the “good” bacteria when you take antibiotics to kill the “bad” bacteria. STRESS AND THE IMMUNE SYSTEM This is particularly difficult to study, since people respond differently to stress, and the amount of distress is difficult to measure. Then, there is the issue of acute versus chronic stress, and social stress can be more damaging that physical stress. To this date, I have had only one patient take my advice to quit his job because he had hypertension, depression, and was frequently sick. He came to me one year later just for a checkup, and he was healthy. While studies are relatively inconclusive, anecdotally, after 16

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“HOW DO YOU NOT GET SICK?” a patient asked, as she coughed on me. I hold my breath and walk out of the room. Patients often ask me what they can do to stay healthy. Being an osteopathic physician, they usually expect me to tell them to take some echinacea and meditate. The answer is really not that simple. The immune response is such a complex interaction of components, that it is difficult to perform accurate scientific studies that isolate factors that affect it, much less study how the immune system itself works. It is a symphony of different immune cells, cell signals, and chemicals. Because every person’s physiology responds to various substances and stimuli differently, it is virtually impossible to measure the benefit in a large group setting. A healthy, balanced lifestyle is your best bet to keep your immunity intact. Don’t smoke. Exercise regularly. Drink alcohol in moderation. Eat a balanced diet. Get enough sleep. Wash your hands frequently. Wipe down surfaces touched by sick people. Avoid hospitals, especially if you’re compromise. Maintain your youth by practicing anti-aging behaviors; aging is associated with fewer and more forgetful T cells, resulting in a declining ability to fight off infection. There are a number of studies exploring the effects of diet, exercise, age, psychological stress, and herbal supplements, but none showing anything particularly conclusive. There is also a lack of initiative to conduct such studies, since Big Pharma does not benefit from supplements, and will not spend the money to prove or disprove effects of supplements on immunity. There are relatively few studies of the effects of nutrition on the immune system. There is some evidence that various micronutrient deficiencies (zinc, selenium, iron, copper folic acid, and vitamins A, B6, C, and E, and protein) alter immune responses in animals. I have found that vegans and vegetarians take longer to heal from wounds. Diabetics also have difficulty healing if they are poorly-controlled.

Dr. Phyllis Books MA, DC, CCN, DACBN

Author of REVERSING DYSLEXIA

Turning Dyslexia & ADHD Around years of medical practice, I can recommend a few things to keep your body and immune system optimal: • Exercise regularly. • Eat a healthy, balanced diet. • Stay hydrated. • Get the proper amount of sleep. • Maintain a great support network of friends and family. • Avoid stressful situations or find healthful ways to deal with stress. • Breathe oxygen; quit smoking or vaping, or don’t even begin. • Wash your hands regularly. • Don’t get old. • Laugh more; love more; live and forgive more. • And, last, but not least, don’t let people cough on you.

Hope for Your Family Improve Learning & Behavior Without Drugs • Dyslexia IS Temporary 4 out of 5 Times • Dismantle Neurosensory Processing Issues • Balance Behavior, Emotions, ADHD • Relief for Allergies, Headaches, TMJ, & Pain • Peak Performance with Peace Restored “UP 4 Grade Levels in 2 MONTHS. I use to try so hard without having any fun. I feel happier and more like myself-who I really am.” Quinn P.B.

Call 512-331-0668 BOOKS FAMILY HEALTH CENTER www.DrPhyllisBooks.com www.Reversing Dyslexia.com A U S T I N MD M A G A Z I N E . C O M

NEW YEAR  NEW YOU

TO REDUCE PAIN Dr. Sri, of Advanced Pain Care, shares simple ways to keep unnecessary pain in check

BY DR. SRINAND MANDYAM

IT’S NO SECRET that healthy lifestyle habits can have a significant impact on managing chronic diseases like heart disease and diabetes, but they can also help in managing chronic pain. Here is a list of five things that you can do to help keep your pain scores lower in the New Year.

1 2 3 4 5 14

LOSE WEIGHT – This may seem cliché or even obvious to some, but excess weight can put additional physical stress on support structures like the spine, large joints, and muscles. This can lead to chronic lower back and neck pain as well as muscle pain. WATCH YOUR DIET – This is especially important in diseases like diabetes where maintaining tight glucose control can halt the progression of painful conditions like neuropathy or nerve damage. STAY ACTIVE – Research has shown low-impact exercise can significantly reduce the symptoms of musculoskeletal pain in fibromyalgia. It can also help with associated symptoms like sleep disturbances and chronic fatigue. CHECK YOUR VITAMIN D LEVELS – Several studies have suggested that low levels of Vitamin D in the blood may be linked to chronic pain. If you are Vitamin D deficient, your doctor may consider prescribing Vitamin D supplementation. CHECK YOUR THYROID FUNCTION AND TESTOSTERONE – low levels of thyroid hormone and testosterone can lead to joint swelling and weight gain, which can make any existing joint problems, like arthritis, more painful. Keeping these

A U S T I N MD M A G A Z I N E . C O M

SEVERAL STUDIES HAVE SUGGESTED THAT LOW LEVELS OF VITAMIN D IN THE BLOOD MAY BE LINKED TO CHRONIC PAIN. Dr. Srinand Mandyam joined Advanced Pain Care in early 2014 and sees patients in, and around, the Round Rock and Cedar Park areas. “Dr. Sri” is a board certified anesthesiologist and board certified pain management physician. He received his medical degree from Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center in Lubbock, Texas, and completed his residency in anesthesiology at the University of Texas at Houston, part of the prestigious Texas Medical Center. After residency, Dr. Sri completed an additional year of fellowship training in interventional pain management at the University of Utah where he learned advanced, minimally invasive techniques in combating pain. For more information visit, www.austinpaindoctor.com

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NEW YEAR  NEW YOU

ACHIEVING TRUE WELLNESS FOR 2016

f you’re like most people, you have probably made a promise to yourself that now that the holidays are over, it’s time for a fresh start. It’s New Year’s resolution time and for approximately 100 million Americans that resolution is to lose weight. For those wishing to drop a few pounds in 2016, the best way to begin that journey is through good health habits, which means more than diet and exercise. STOP THE SPREAD OF GERMS • Avoid close contact with people who are sick. • When you are sick, stay home from work, school, and errands to protect others from getting sick too. • Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when coughing or sneezing. • Wash your hands frequently with soap and warm water for 15 to 20 seconds. That’s about the same time it takes to sing the “Happy Birthday” song twice! • When soap and water are not available, use alcohol-based disposable hand wipes or gel sanitizers to kill germs on hands. • Remind your children to practice healthy habits, too. GET ADEQUATE NUTRITION • Eat a balanced diet of wholesome, natural foods – they contain vitamins and minerals as well as other compounds, such as antioxidants, that may have beneficial effects on health. • Don’t overeat or eat too much food after nightfall. For some, the saying, “8:00 p.m. is too late!” is helpful to remember that you should try to limit your food intake to earlier than 8:00 pm.

A U S T I N MD M A G A Z I N E . C O M

BY KATHERINE VOSS

• For those who do not, or cannot, get enough vitamins and minerals through eating, taking vitamin and mineral supplements or eating foods fortified with vitamins and minerals may be useful. Talk to your doctor before taking extra vitamins and minerals. REST • Get a good night’s rest on a regular basis. A minimum of seven hours of sleep each night is recommended, eight is better, nine is best. • People who get adequate rest have better health, lower divorce rates, higher job satisfaction, fewer doctor visits, and generally feel better overall! HYDRATION • Drink water! Six eight-ounce glasses of water daily will keep you hydrated and replenish the 10 cups of water you lose throughout the day. EXERCISE/PHYSICAL ACTIVITY • Exercise regularly – find a balance of strengthening, stretching, and aerobic activities that will help you generate good tone, flexibility, and endurance. Some of the benefits of physical activity include: • prevents disease • burns calories • decreases stress and anxiety • improves health • helps you to deal with emotions and feelings • builds strength

For more information, visit www.roundrock.sw.org

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DATE A DOC

BOOK REVIEWS:

AZIZ ANSARI’S “MODERN ROMANCE” AND TUCKER MAX’S “MATE”

What happens when entertainment writers and scientists collide to offer dating advice BY SAM JACKSON

WITH A NEW YEAR, people from all around the world start reexamining their priorities to figure out how to make the next year better than the last one. Some common phrases promised include, “I’ll exercise more,” “I’ll start that novel,” “I’ll spit on cops less,” the typical stuff. At the top of those lists tends to be some variation on the theme of finding a romantic partner. But people may not feel that great about their chances, especially those who feel out of step in the era of Tinder and the increasing presence of online personas over real world interaction. Recently, two people have stepped up in the hopes of gently taking those people’s arms, calming them down, and bringing them back to the party. They are standup comedian/actor Aziz Ansari, author of “Modern Romance,” and Tucker Max who wrote “Mate.” Interestingly, both employed scientific co-authors in two different fields to bolster their advice. Ansari enlisted Eric Klinenberg, professor of sociology at NYU, while Max brought in Dr. Geoffrey Miller, professor of evolutionary psychology at the University of New Mexico. Once you crack open the books the similarities end. “Mate” is presented as a guide for cleaning men up (the subtitle’s Become the Man Women Want) and helping them clarify what they want in a relationship, while “Modern Romance” aims to demystify all the advances in dating and problems that have become unique to our time – Did she see my text? It says “seen at 4:05.” Should I text again? No? What do I do, what do I do? After reading “Modern Romance,” you feel a lot better about dating in the modern world. It lets you know that you can download Tinder and have a ball right then and there and that you can finally stop panicking about whether to text or call the person you just met at that thing you went to last week. The best part is how readers can practically hear Ansari’s voice through the whole thing, with plenty of jokes and banter to diffuse any tension and ease the whole delivery. When he stops to drop a study or a statistic, it’s like Klinenberg is perched on Ansari’s shoulder like a guardian angel, dropping a fact

A U S T I N MD M A G A Z I N E . C O M

♥

“MATE” IS PRESENTED AS A GUIDE FOR CLEANING MEN UP AND HELPING THEM CLARIFY WHAT THEY WANT IN A RELATIONSHIP, WHILE “MODERN ROMANCE” AIMS TO DEMYSTIFY ALL THE ADVANCES IN DATING AND PROBLEMS THAT HAVE BECOME UNIQUE TO OUR TIME

in when appropriate. It makes the distinctions clear between the past and the present, and major changes in the world, like how our parents’ generation had little choice in their dating pool, while this generation is only limited by daring and commitment while walking through a “hallway with millions of door,” as Ansari put it. The tone of “Mate,” on the other hand, feels like Miller and Max fused into one person. It’s heavy on scientific language and absolutes and low on jokes, and can come off as impersonal and arrogant, as if it’s just begging for someone to stand up and say, “Who are you to think that applies to me?” Considering the checkered history of Tucker Max and the skepticism around evolutionary psychology as well, it’s easy to just write the whole thing off. But there is genuine insight and helpful tips for men to improve their fashion sense, diet, and exercise, some of which I took the opportunity to test out for myself. In a world where the common question from down and out single men is, “How do I get girls?,” “Mate” forces its readers to ask themselves how to become someone the opposite sex could actually enjoy being around, which is way more realistic than some pick up artist’s pathetically narrow-minded, routine-based version of how relationships work. Because of the two different aims, it’s not so much a question of which one’s better as it is which goal do you have in mind. My verdict would be if you’re a man and want some tough, but fair advice on how to pick yourself up and clean up your mug for proper presentation, read “Mate.” If you’re a man or a woman in need of a funny read and some help in these times, get “Modern Romance.” And if you should happen to know a guy who’s in need of some self help and then a reintroduction to the new world of dating, perhaps these two as a package deal might be just the thing to give.

For more information visit, www.tuckermax.me and book.azizansari.com

Austin MD Magazine’s third annual Date A Doc Charity Auction benefits Any Baby Can BY NICOLE CARBON PHOTOS BY STEVEN DEMENT

HERE ARE

AUSTIN’S MOST ELIGIBLE SINGLE DOCTORS AND MEDICAL PROFESSIONALS A U S T I N MD M A G A Z I N E . C O M

What do you love most about your job?

Without question, the best part of my job is helping people. I’m an artist in addition to being a plastic surgeon, so seeing the results of my procedures is particularly rewarding to me in an aesthetic sense as well.

Why did you pursue a career in medicine?

Because I wanted to be a surgeon for as long as I can remember, and surgeons are able to help their patients immediately and dramatically with their hands and minds. I think you have to have a love and passion for what you are pursuing, particularly in medicine, to find day-to-day happiness in life since it is quite demanding and time consuming. Albert Schweitzer noted that, “Success is not the key to happiness. Happiness is the key to success. If you love what you are doing, you will be successful.”

What’s special and unique about your practice?

We are all female, including the surgeon and owner (me!). Girl power!

What’s your idea of an ideal date?

Dinner, movie, low-key.

What do you look for in a romantic partner?

Sense of humor, kind, gentlemanly, and physically attractive. Able to deal with a strong female personality with ease and enthusiasm!

A U S T I N MD M A G A Z I N E . C O M

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n a city with one of the highest numbers of singles, we, at Austin MD Magazine, took it a step further and searched for the best of the best. We had the true pleasure of hand selecting Austin’s most eligible and appealing single doctors and medical professionals! We probed to find out what personality traits they look for in a mate, what an ideal date looks like, and delved deeper to learn more about these hot catches. Nominations went through a vigorous selection process and we’re proud to present our picks below for the third annual Date A Doc Charity Auction. All proceeds from this year’s event are benefitting Any Baby Can, an organization that works to support kids and their families struggling with long term illnesses. The event is on Friday, February 5, 2016 at 7 p.m. at Brazos Hall located at 204 E. 4th Street in Austin. The evening begins with a VIP

cocktail reception and silent auction. Delicious offerings are provided by BlackFfinn Ameripub and the drinks will be flowing with an open bar. Enjoy Austin’s mild season on the open air rooftop of Brazos Hall while you mix and mingle with the area’s hot, handsome, and eligible singles in the medical community and all for a good cause! Tickets are available through Ticketbud, www.dateadoc2016.ticketbud.com. This is just a sneak peak of some of the most eligible, single medical professionals in our community. Visit our website for more pics and learn more about what these lookers look for in an ideal mate and on an ideal date.

For more information visit, www.austinmdmagazine.com/date a-doc-2016-benefiting-any-baby-can

Jennifer L. Walden Place of employment/position: Jennifer L. Walden, MD, PLLC & Walden Cosmetic Surgery and Laser Center, Plastic Surgeon/ Medical Director/ Owner

What do you love most about your job?

What I love most about my job is the autonomy. I see a wide variety of patients everyday. Having the freedom to practice in my own individualized way has really offered me a lot of happiness in my role as a provider.

Why did you pursue a career in medicine?

I chose medicine because I love science. I also feel like I make a difference in people’s lives. I don’t come from a family of medicine or clinicians. I sort of fell into the career. I originally thought I wanted to be an architect for the design aspect, but turns out you have to be pretty good with numbers!

What’s special and unique about your practice?

I work in a busy practice where continuity of care is very important to us. We offer anything from acute/chronic illness care, to minor procedures, to physical therapy and chiropractic services. When you love where you work, it shows, and I think people recognize that about Victory Medical Center.

What’s your idea of an ideal date?

My ideal date is probably a great dinner somewhere with a bottle of wine and then a comedy show after. I love good food and love to laugh! You can’t go wrong with a date if you have great company!

Of utmost importance in a partner is character to me. Overtime, character is unlikely to sway as other attributes may. With that said...I also like tall, handsome, successful, and funny!

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What do you look for in a romantic partner?

Brittani Adams, NP Place of employment/position: Victory Medical Center, Family Nurse Practitioner

A U S T I N MD M A G A Z I N E . C O M

What do you love most about your job?

The moments of gratitude and peace. I encounter people suffering regularly. We meet at some moment when their body fails to maintain itself. Training and resources allow me to alleviate their suffering. It’s my job and responsibility, but I’m the one, with that person, that gets to say, “I’ll make you feel better.” Then medicine works! I get to be a part of healing. People are often grateful that at least some of their suffering improved. Their gratitude and peace bring me a lot of satisfaction.

Why did you pursue a career in medicine?

Growing up I made good grades and I could work hard at the sciences; thus, I learned I could do medicine. However, it wasn’t until I saw patients for the first time, with a missionary physician in Nigeria, that I saw the symphony of science, kindness and compassion, interpersonal connectedness, and faith blend into a profession. I wanted a vocation where the gifts I’d been given matched with one of the world’s great needs.

Scott Tolan, MD

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Place of employment/position: Dell Children’s Hospital/University Medical Center Brackenridge/Seton Main, MD

What’s special and unique about your practice?

I take care of everyone from the newborn nursery to the nursing home. However, I am a hospitalist, so I only see people when they are too sick to receive care at home. I am a part of the children’s hospital and county hospital; I also work at a few of the private hospitals.

A U S T I N MD M A G A Z I N E . C O M

What’s your idea of an ideal date?

The ideal date is a time when the date feels special, honored, and cared for, and I feel relaxed enough to pursue her and be myself. Preparation, setting, and circumstances matter, but mostly it is connectedness, vulnerability, and communication.

What do you look for in a romantic partner?

She goes about her day as usual. She notices a friend or a stranger down and out. She stops a moment to connect eyes. If invited, she’ll give a cup of coffee to warm the hands, a couple encouraging words to warm the heart; if invited she’ll give time, but she always gives herself. She goes about her day as usual; nobody else notices. And she’s beautiful and loves Jesus.

Best part of my job?

I love the detective work that’s involved in medicine. Especially in veterinary medicine, where your patients can’t tell you what’s hurting or how they are feeling. It’s fun to be able to figure out what’s wrong by talking to owners and performing diagnostics. I love having those eureka moments when I come up with a diagnosis. Also of course, getting to see puppies is amazing! No matter how stressful my day has been, it all melts away when I get puppy kisses.

Why did you pursue a career in medicine?

Growing up, I was always asking questions and I was fascinated by nature and biology. Then, when I was 13-years-old I adopted my dog, Coco. She was very sick and, working side by side with her veterinarian, I played a major role in her recovery. Ever since then I had my mind set on becoming a veterinarian.

What’s special and unique about your practice?

Banfield focuses on providing the highest quality evidence-based veterinary medicine at each of their hundreds of hospitals across the United States. We have a big focus on preventive medicine, ensuring that pets are the healthiest they can be so that the risk of developing disease is minimized.

What’s your idea of an ideal date?

I love anything that gets my adrenaline going and I’m also a big fan of the outdoors. My perfect date would include going skydiving or hiking in an unfamiliar place. I’m also a really big fan of live music, so going to see a concert is always a good time.

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Elizabeth McCalley, DVM Place of employment/position: Banfield Pet Hospital, Associate Veterinarian

What do you look for in a romantic partner?

Someone who doesn’t take themselves seriously and can make me laugh. I love to goof off and often go out wearing silly outfits, like my zebra onesie or one of my many furry animal hats. So, I’m looking for someone that will be ridiculous right along side with me. Also, intelligence and ambition are qualities I find very attractive.

A U S T I N MD M A G A Z I N E . C O M

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Ram Vasudeva, MD Place of employment/position: Austin NeuroSpine/Founder

What do you love most about your job?

The connections that I make with patients and their families and the positive impact I can make on their quality of life.

I specialize in current minimally invasive spine techniques.

Q: Q:

Why did you pursue a career in medicine?

At an early age I was able to experience the positive impact a physician can make in the community through my dad who was a practicing cardiologist. I specifically chose neurosurgery because of the technical skill and complexity of the nervous system.

A U S T I N MD M A G A Z I N E . C O M

What’s special and unique about your practice?

What’s your idea of an ideal date?

A quiet evening of drinks, dinner, and maybe a late-night romantic walk around town lake or something a little more adventurous like hiking Mount Bonnell and watching the sunset.

What do you look for in a romantic partner?

Someone who is adventurous, intelligent, compassionate, loves to laugh, and is physically fit.

What do you love most about your job?

I enjoy the unique role I serve in the community. Being able to act as a first line of health information for patients seeking advice not only on medications, but also chronic disease, nutrition, and healthcare provider recommendations is an important role to me. I love having the opportunity to educate patients and with the dynamic nature of our practice, I am constantly being educated myself.

Why did you pursue a career in medicine?

I have always enjoyed communicating and educating others, and I feel healthcare is an ideal industry in which to utilize those interests. In my experience, in both a large hospital and community setting, I have found that we are most proficient in treating patients when they are right in front of us, yet our ability to treat lacks once they leave our doors. Working to bridge those gaps and increase the continuity of care between health systems is a challenge I enjoy taking on!

What’s special and unique about your practice?

We are a wellness pharmacy. Our goal is to recreate the idea of the traditional drugstore, one that was central to the community and where patients came to consult their “druggist” about health issues in a face-to-face setting. Everything we do is patient-centered, from the tailored compounded medications we provide, to the individualized nutrition consultations and education seminars we conduct.

What’s your idea of an ideal date?

What’s your idea of an ideal date? Well, I would be lying if I said I didn’t enjoy being wined and dined. That’s not to say sparks won’t fly without a horse-drawn carriage to pick me up, but going the extra mile doesn’t hurt chances. Generally, good food and good conversation are what I seek out on an ideal date.

What do you look for in a romantic partner?

I’m looking for someone that loves to travel, is funny, energetic, and shares my interests. Being able to weave quotes from Back to the Future and 90’s rap songs into everyday conversation will set my heart afire. Also must love dogs.

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D.J. Lorimier Place of employment/position: Hill Country Apothecary, Pharmacist

A U S T I N MD M A G A Z I N E . C O M

What do you love most about your job?

As a radiology tech, I love the critical thinking and fast-paced environment. Every day is something new and you never know what or who is going to come in requiring our care. I also value the teamwork displayed in the healthcare environment. We all play a very important role in delivering the best patient care, and I love when everyone works together to please the patient to the fullest of our ability.

Why did you pursue a career in medicine?

When a patient comes into the emergency room requiring care, it becomes a mystery that needs solved. What are their symptoms and how are we going to help them? Radiology plays an important role in helping the physician diagnosis the patient. I like to think of it as an important piece of the puzzle. I also think we are “chosen” for the medical field. Not everyone can handle the blood and critical thinking. And since I can, I must pursue.

Kasey MacInnes

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Place of employment/position: Austin Emergency Center, Radiology Supervisor

What’s special and unique about your practice?

Austin Emergency Center is a privately-owned, free-standing emergency room that provides concierge-level emergency care. It is the first locally-owned center in Austin. There are three locations located on South Lamar, Far West, and Anderson Mill. Our practice is unique because we are able to provide the same emergency services as a hospital-based emergency room, but without the wait. Our patients receive care as soon as they walk in the door with a wait time of less than five minutes. With our fully functioning lab, imaging services, and outstanding patient care, we go above and beyond with offering our Austin local community the best healthcare A U S T I N possible. MD M A G A Z I N E . C O M experience

What’s your idea of an ideal date?

I’m a huge Pearl Jam fan. I am also very spontaneous. Let’s travel somewhere new, try some food we’ve never had before, go to a brewery, and then go to a Pearl Jam concert.

What do you look for in a romantic partner?

My perfect partner would be someone that is sincere, smart, spontaneous, enjoys travel, shares mutual interests, and most importantly, makes me laugh. A good sense of humor is the best quality. Some height definitely wouldn’t be a bad thing.

What do you love most about your job?

The occasional times when after the procedure an old veteran says, “Wow I don’t feel much pain anymore, you think I can go dancing tonight, doc?”

Why did you pursue a career in medicine?

Because I was tricked into it by my sneaky Asian parents. But in reality, physical medicine is such an amazing field because it approaches patient care in a holistic, comprehensive way. I recently started doing muscle knot release therapy and ear acupuncture for pain control, how cool is that?

What’s special and unique about your practice?

We get to collaborate with a big team including physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech, social work, and others to make sure the patient receives awesome care. Really it feels like hanging out with a group of your buddies and just getting things done efficiently as a team.

What’s your idea of an ideal date?

Pringles and freeze tag.

Someone who is pretty adventurous, open minded, and can hold a good conversation.

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What do you look for in a romantic partner?

Vincent Pham Place of employment/position: The VA Austin Outpatient Clinic, Interventional Spine and Pain Management, Medical Doctor

A U S T I N MD M A G A Z I N E . C O M

ď&#x201A;&#x201E;

Thao Phan, M.A., M.P.H., M.S. Place of employment/position: Austin-Bee Caves Counseling Center/Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist- Supervisor

What do you love most about your job?

There are many things I love about my job, but what I love most is that my clients trust me with intimate details of their lives, relationships, and challenges. From there we collaborate on solutions and develop strategies so that they feel more connected to their family and friends and/or to become more passionate and productive at work.

Why did you pursue a career in medicine?

When I entered college, I was on the pre-med track but discovered that I had a low threshold for watching people suffer from physical pain. Shortly after, I took an intro to psychology course and was fascinated by it. Though I continued as a pre-med student and took a circuitous route to the therapy field, I fervently believe it was my calling.

Whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s special and unique about your practice?

My practice focus areas are anger, conflict, and trauma resolution. What makes my practice unique is that I also have a background in applied cognition and neuroscience as well as public health. This allows me to educate my clients on the biological contributions to their relational patterns and to create more adaptive coping mechanisms.

Whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s your idea of an ideal date?

My idea of an ideal date is one which both individuals feel at ease and can engage in stimulating conversation with an equal amount of belly laughs interspersed.

A U S T I N MD M A G A Z I N E . C O M

What do you look for in a romantic partner?

Above all else, I expect my romantic partner to uphold a high degree of integrity. I also look for someone who is considerate of others, has a generous, open spirit, and has an appreciation for differences. I am especially drawn to men who are witty, patient, and who enjoy food and travel as much as I do.

What do you love most about your job?

Being able to help both other doctors and patients in a unique, behind-the-scenes way.

Why did you pursue a career in medicine?

It started as a love for science and nature and grew from there into a role I knew I could fulfill.

What’s special and unique about your practice?

Getting to see tumors with a microscope and finding out what they are up to.

What’s your idea of an ideal date?

High activity with plenty of time to talk and get to know each other and just the right amount of nutrition.

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Zachary Sussman, MD Place of employment/position: St. David’s North Austin, Pathologist

What do you look for in a romantic partner?

Teamwork, compatibility, warmth, and dependability.

To meet the best of our top most eligible picks visit www.austinmdmagazine.com A U S T I N MD M A G A Z I N E . C O M

DATE A DOC

APPROACHING NEW LOVE IN THE NEW YEAR Tips to take dating out of the box and turn it into something more BY JULIA MCCURLEY

AS A PROFESSIONAL matchmaker here in Austin, a critical part of my job is planning fun and memorable first dates to ensure my clients will have a great time! Classic date ideas tend to lean toward the indulgent: a movie, complete with a giant soda and a large bucket of popcorn (with extra butter); reservations at an extravagant French restaurant; or cocktails and fried foods at a bar. Any of those date ideas could make for an enjoyable evening, but enjoyed too often, they could also lead to diabetes or heart disease down the road. So, if you prefer to be passionate without being passive, here are six great date ideas that will leave you feeling healthier, not heavier.

Just Dance While you could stay inside watching Dancing with the Stars, why not try some dancing of your own? Taking a dance class with your date is a romantic way to spend your time together, as well as a fantastic way to get exercise. If taking a class isn’t your style, how about a night at the club? Dancing for just one hour can burn up to 500 calories, improve strength,

A U S T I N MD M A G A Z I N E . C O M

and tone muscle — so get out on the dance floor and show off your moves! Go Take a Hike Spending your day in nature can make for a great date. Be sure you bring lots of water to stay hydrated and take snacks to keep your energy and spirits up. Opt for trail mix with fruits and nuts over high-calorie, sugar-packed energy bars. If you’re not up for hiking, a leisurely stroll in the woods or walk around the neighborhood also burns calories, gets you out of the house, and can be very romantic. Be Flexible How about taking a yoga class together? There are many

preconceptions about yoga that simply aren’t true. One of them is that yoga is not a couple’s activity. Like dancing, yoga can be a great way to work up a sweat with your partner. Classes range from Ananda yoga — a calm style that focuses on controlled breathing, slow movements, and body alignment — to the physically demanding and strength-building Ashtanga and Bikram yoga styles.

RESEARCH SHOWS THAT SIMPLY DOING NEW THINGS TOGETHER AS A COUPLE IGNITES THE SAME CIRCUIT AS FALLING IN LOVE.

DOLGACHOV/BIGSTOCK.COM

Turn Up the Heat Rather than spending your evening (and entire paycheck) on an expensive dinner, take your date to a farmers’ market and pick up some locally grown, healthy products to cook together. Walking around the market will get your heart rate up, and eating local food is great for your community and your body. Grill up some fish, perhaps salmon, and lightly sauté the vegetables you bought from the market. Or, if salmon isn’t your thing, try grilling a smaller fish, such as cod, which has low mercury content, tons of protein, and large amounts of cholesterol-reducing omega-3 fatty acids, as well as vitamin D (for healthy bones) and it tastes delicious!

Two-Person Kayaking This teamwork-paddled date packs all the scenery and tranquility (not to mention upper-body burn) into one picture-perfect afternoon. While both people have to paddle at the same time (no slackers allowed!), whoever is in front has to trust the person in the back to steer properly. So when they say, “No honey, I’m not going to steer you into that big rock,” you just have to go with it. It turns out that all that communicating will not only improve your skills but your attitude as well. One study of Oxford University Rowers found that team members who worked out together doubled their About Julia McCurley endorphin release compared Julia McCurley is the founder to those who exercised solo.

of Something More, Austin’s only locally-owned and operated private matchmaking service. After creating many successful relationships and marriages for friends and family, Julia decided to take her passion of matchmaking to the next level by using the skills she developed as a recruiter/ business development executive and transferring them to becoming a headhunter for the heart. After becoming a Certified Professional Matchmaker by the nationally recognized Matchmaking Institute, Julia opened the doors of Something More in 2009 to make her talents for connecting people who are looking for a lifetime of love and happiness official. Julia and Something More have been featured prominently in the Austin American Statesman, Austin Monthly, Austin Business Journal, The Society Diaries, Brilliant Magazine, Yahoo! Shine and Tyra Banks’ Typepad F. Her TV appearances include the ABC, NBC, CBS and FOX affiliates, and many other media outlets. Additionally, Julia hosted a talk radio show about dating and relationships that spread her advice to singles looking for love over the airwaves.

Take a Walk on the Wild Side Dates where you’re taking a trapeze lesson, bungee jumping, skydiving, or white-water rafting can provide a kind of super-adventurous (and slightly dangerous) good time while creating an instant bond. Anytime the two of you do something unusual that is scary or thrilling, it creates a different kind of chemistry. Heart-pumping, bloodcurdling fear factor dates provide a feel-good high, help you connect with your date, and create instant chemistry all at once due to the endorphin rush. As if that weren’t enough reason to veer off the beaten path, consider this — research shows that simply doing new things together as a couple ignites the same circuit as falling in love. By flooding the brain’s reward system with dopamine and norepinephrine, mixing up date night can help those butterflies hang around a bit longer. If you are someone you know is single and looking for love in Austin, please contact me julia@trysomethingmore. com. Love is always in the air, sometimes you just need a little direction!

For more information visit, www.trysomethingmore.com

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Local Lifestyle

Real Estate Looks a Little Different in 2016

HERE’S HOW

BY OMAR DYESS

MAJOR CHANGES have taken effect to the real estate closing process for anyone using a mortgage company, bank, or lender to purchase property. Any transaction involving a mortgage will use the new disclosure forms created by the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB). The National Association of Realtors (NAR) has compiled information on this topic on REALTOR.org. Learn more about the changes and then focus on how the changes will affect association form contracts. The Truth-in-Lending Act/RESPA Integrated Disclosures (TRID) creates timing requirements for disclosures that lenders need to make to consumers. Not only will the new forms be used in transactions, the relationship between the lender and other parties, like the closing agent and the mortgage broker, is now altered because the lender can be liable if certain costs exceed the tolerance limitations set forth in the TRID. In addition, the changes may also delay a transaction if certain changes occur near closing, as TRID requires a three-day waiting period prior to closing and certain changes may cause lender delays.

A U S T I N MD M A G A Z I N E . C O M

Disclosure. A consumer has 10 business days after it is deemed to have received the Loan Estimate to decide whether to proceed with the transaction. The consumer must receive the Closing Disclosure within three business days of closing. The Closing Disclosure captures all of the costs paid by the consumer, and so any alterations made at the closing table must be reflected in an amended Closing Disclosure following the closing. Three changes will require a new Closing Disclosure and will require a new three-day waiting period: APR changes by more than 1/8 percent; loan product changes; or a pre-payment penalty is added. PURCHASE CONTRACT REVISIONS The new disclosure timing requirements needs to be addressed in the model form contracts that many REALTOR® associations create. All associations who create form contracts need to revisit the timelines established in these agreements, as the process for completing a real estate transaction will be altered starting on August 1, 2016. One important issue that may need to be addressed is the buyer’s duty to close the transaction on a date certain. Since TRID may cause delays in the transaction through no fault of the buyer, purchase contracts need to be adjusted so that the buyer is not in breach of the agreement for not closing on a certain date. As stated

KURHAN/BIGSTOCK.COM

TRID Through the Dodd-Frank Act, Congress ordered the creation of TRID in order to improve the loan disclosures made to consumers. TRID combines the prior TILA and RESPA disclosures into two forms, the Loan Estimate and the Closing Disclosure. The new forms are required to be used in all transactions starting August 1, 2016 and cannot be used for transactions prior to that date. TRID contains many intricate requirements for the disclosure forms and this article is merely an overview of these requirements. There are also tolerance limitations that may require a lender to refund fees paid by a consumer if the actual costs paid exceeds the estimated costs by certain factors. The Loan Estimate is how consumers will apply for a loan. A lender cannot charge a fee except for the credit report until after a consumer has received a Loan Estimate from a lender and has decided to proceed with the transaction. The lender must send the Loan Estimate within three business days after receiving application from a consumer and the final Loan Estimate must be issued at least seven business days prior to the closing. The cost estimates used by the lender in calculating the Loan Estimate must be made in “good faith,” meaning the numbers will be presumed to be based on the best information available and the lender may have to refund to the consumer certain amounts if the amounts vary between the Loan Estimate and the Closing

above, TRID will cause a reset in the three-day waiting period in certain instances, but the lender may also cause delays due to the new tolerance limitations. For example, a problem with the home’s plumbing could potentially require the lender to seek a new valuation of the property, which in turn could require new disclosures and a delay in the transaction. Therefore, the buyer’s obligation to close should not be required on a certain date since the potential for delays can cause this date to move. In addition to the buyer’s obligation to close, all other timelines need to be reviewed. For example, a financing contingency that requires an immediate application by a buyer may not be practical, as the Loan Estimate won’t be a final commitment by a lender and potentially is subject to change, like following the appraisal. In addition, a lender can’t charge a buyer for an appraisal until the buyer evidences intent to proceed with the transaction, which could be almost three weeks after the initial application. The association should work with lenders and closing agents in its area to help revise its contract, as those groups will be familiar with how the rule will be implemented and so will have insight into workable timelines for a transaction. A few associations have already considered the changes that need to be made to their forms. Some have made changes to their forms by including language that contract will extend if the closing is delayed through no fault of either party. Others have found that their existing contract adequately covered the delay scenario, as the contracts already accounted for delays such as these. Finally, many associations have decided to take a wait-and-see approach before adapting their agreements, as they want to see how the new process works before adapting their contracts. A couple of other issues have arisen. A lender group is hoping to have licensee information captured in the purchase/sale agreement, as lenders need to have this information to complete the Closing Disclosure. Some lenders are taking the position that privacy laws restrict their ability to share the Closing Disclosure with real estate professionals and will only share the Closing Disclosure after consent is obtained from the borrower. NAR is investigating this issue.

For more information, visit www.DyessResidential.com.

REAL ESTATE PROFESSIONALS NEED TO HELP THEIR CLIENTS UNDERSTAND THAT ATTEMPTS AT LAST MINUTE NEGOTIATIONS COULD DERAIL THE CLOSING AND SO THE PARTIES SHOULD TRY TO HAVE ALL ISSUES RESOLVED WELL IN ADVANCE OF CLOSING.

REAL ESTATE PROFESSIONAL TAKEAWAY While real estate professionals do not have any direct responsibilities under the TRID, they still have a role in the process. Real estate professionals need to educate their clients about what has changed and help them understand that the transaction will take longer. In addition, clients also need to be educated about the possibility for closing delays and so should be wary of scheduling back-to-back closings, as there is risk that one of the transactions may be delayed. Finally, real estate professionals need to help their clients understand that attempts at last minute negotiations could derail the closing and so the parties should try to have all issues resolved well in advance of closing. In particular, changes made within the three-day waiting could cause a delay to the closing. CONCLUSION TRID disclosures will change the timing for transactions involving a mortgage. REALTOR® associations who create form contracts should review these contracts in light of these new requirements. Real estate professionals will need to help their clients understand how the changes will change the transaction, explaining how the transactions may take longer and that there exists the possibility for delays. Information courtesy of National Association of Realtors. A U S T I N MD M A G A Z I N E . C O M

Local Lifestyle

DEPENDING ON THE SIGNALS RECEIVED, THE CENTRAL STATION OPERATOR CAN DISPATCH POLICE, FIRE, OR EMS, NOTIFY YOU, OR TAKE OTHER APPROPRIATE ACTIONS.

HOW TO PROTECT WHAT MATTERS TO YOU MOST

Dyezz Surveillance provides a sense of security for both homes and businesses BY BOB PENA

SOME OF THE BENEFITS OF A HOME AND/OR BUSINESS SECURITY ALARM SYSTEM INCLUDE: • An alarm system emits a sound, as well as simultaneously sending a signal to the security company or a station’s home base, to make them aware that someone has tried to break into the home or business property. • The home security system will then call you to confirm that there was a break in. If you don’t respond, they will send out immediate assistance to home or call the local police station. • “Monitored” means that the system not only makes noise at the site, but also communicates the signal offsite. • Depending on the signals received, the central station operator can dispatch police, fire, or EMS, notify you, or take other appropriate actions.

This time of year brings no greater joy than the opportunity to express to you good wishes. May your New Year be filled with joy.

For more information visit, www.dyezz.com

A U S T I N MD M A G A Z I N E . C O M

CHAINAT/BIGSTOCK.COM

bout this time of the year, some of us traditionally sit down and attempt to come up with a few “New Year’s resolutions.” Sometimes we come up with sensible, realistic resolutions, sometimes we don’t. Sometimes they “stick,” sometimes they “come unglued!” Perhaps it would help if we actually wrote down what matters and what’s most important to us and then begin the resolution process. Would it be trivial to differentiate between what matters and what’s important? Perhaps, perhaps not, we’ll leave that up to you. However, going forward, beginning each day with a clear understanding of what we want to accomplish, what we want to change or improve, may make a difference, a lasting difference. Given recent random painful events, both domestically and internationally, it may be to our advantage to begin thinking about who and what matters most to us, both personally and otherwise, and how best to protect them from harm. A resolution worth considering, as it applies to our personal safety at home or at our business, is to conscientiously evaluate the benefits of a home and/or business security and surveillance system. There are two basic types of security systems – infrared systems that are used to detect movement inside the home/business and perimeter protection that senses when someone tries to come into the home/business through a door or window.

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MEDICAL

FINALLY FREE YOUR

SPINE

Dr. Ram Vasudevan of Austin NeuroSpine offers his advice on how to manage back pain BY RAM R. VASUDEVAN M.D.

help determine which segment is causing the problem and if you will need to see a neurosurgeon. Your doctor will usually order an MRI, and less frequently, a CT myelogram. Based on these results you may be referred to a neurosurgeon for a surgical consultation. Initially, spinal stenosis can be treated conservatively through physical therapy, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications, and antispasmodics. However, if neurologic dysfunction is present, including weakness, numbness or paresthesias, or the symptoms are significantly affecting the quality of the patientâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s life, then surgical intervention is warranted. Austin NeuroSpine uses the most current, minimally invasive techniques and equipment to achieve excellent results by decompressing the spinal nerves. Depending on the patientâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s medical history and the number of levels involved, this procedure is done on an outpatient basis and patients can go home after only three or four hours of recovery in the hospital. Longterm results are excellent in patients with spinal stenosis and experience reduced back and lower extremity pain, improved functional ability, and a better quality of life. Patients truly are able to get back to living their life.

MAINTAINING A HEALTHY, ACTIVE LIFESTYLE CAN SLOW DOWN AND MANAGE THE PROCESS; HOWEVER, IT CANNOT BE PREVENTED OR REVERSED.

For more information visit, www.austinneurospine.com

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cute and chronic back pain represents a major healthcare concern in the United States. Approximately 75 percent of people will experience back pain at some point in their lifetime. Many of those patients will recover without the need for surgical intervention. Some patients will go on to develop chronic pain related to herniated discs or nerve compression. Unfortunately, spinal degeneration is part of the aging process, we all experience it. Some patients will be more symptomatic than others. Maintaining a healthy, active lifestyle can slow down and manage the process; however, it cannot be prevented or reversed. As the degeneration process unfolds, progressive narrowing of the spinal canal occurs. As our intervertebral discs degenerate, greater stress is placed on the ligaments and joints. This greater stress causes the joints to become large and arthritic, bone spurs begin to grow, and the ligament thickens, encroaching on the nerves. The longer the process continues, the more compressed the nerves become. Over time, patients may notice one or a combination of symptoms including difficulty walking, back and lower extremity pain, numbness and tingling, and weakness in the legs. Cramping leg pain when walking or prolonged standing, which is relieved when sitting or in a flexed position, is a classic symptom and is also known as neurogenic claudication. Sometimes walking downhill can also bring about the symptoms. In rare cases, if the stenosis is severe, patients can experience urinary retention or difficulty urinating due to an atonic or flaccid bladder. When lumbar spinal stenosis is suspected, your doctor will need to obtain imaging studies of your spine to

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PHYSICAL THERAPY

What Is a Physical Therapist?

PHYSICAL THERAPY, THE CHANGE YOU NEED FOR THE NEW YEAR Evidence-based physical therapy that delivers the best results in the fewest visits possible

SPECIAL CONTRIBUTION BY TEXAS PHYSICAL THERAPY

A doctor of physical therapy is different than a physician. They are required to complete a three-year accredited graduate program and pass an extensive licensure examination. Programs are selective, and it’s hard to get in. Due to changes over the years in educational requirements, many physical therapists hold master’s degrees (MPT or MSPT), although almost all physical therapy schools are now granting doctoral degrees. Beyond their initial professional education, some PTs — about five percent — go on to become board-certified clinical specialists through the American Board of Physical Therapy Specialties (ABPTS). Specialization involves deeper training and advanced practice and research in a specific area such as orthopedics, neurology, sports therapy, pediatrics, etc. Specialization requires another two years of clinical residency and it is voluntary. Texas Physical Therapy Specialists has more board-certified specialists than any other provider in Texas.

Common Conditions and Injuries That Physical Therapy Can Help

ne beautiful fall morning many years ago, Rob Wainner was kicking back in a hammock after a run, thinking about what he was going to do with his life after completing his service as a physical therapist in the U.S. Air Force. He had a passion for clinical research and evidence-based practice of physical therapy, but he knew that most PT clinics were not actually practicing that way. He began to get excited about the idea of establishing such a clinic, and the seed he planted grew to become Texas Physical Therapy Specialists.

Physical therapy can be used to treat a variety of conditions and injuries in the neck, shoulder, back, elbow, hand/wrist, hip, knee, ankle, and more. Causes of pain or reduced function might include injuries, muscle strains, worn joints, diseases, nerve compression, arthritis, and spinal disk problems. The doctors at TexPTS are qualified and experienced in treating all of these types of conditions and injuries, and they are committed to using research-based methods to bring the best outcomes in the fewest visits possible. This saves patients time and money while improving their quality of life.

Deep Roots and Rapid Growth

Three Guiding Principles

Rob started looping in long-time friends from Air Force and Army therapy programs who shared his philosophy, consulting with a variety of trusted colleagues about the ideal private PT practice. By 2004, the idea had grown into a firm plan. Rob was joined by Larry Benz, who would lead the business side of the clinic and Andrew Bennett, who would serve as Clinic Director. This initial group of doctors chose to establish their stand-alone start-up clinic in New Braunfels, Texas. Less than two years after seeing their first patient, TexPTS began to expand, opening clinics in San Marcos and Selma. They then acquired more clinics, including five in the Austin area in 2008, two in San Antonio in 2010, Georgetown and Liberty Hill in 2011, Round Rock in 2012, and Cedar Park in 2014. Today, TexPTS includes 19 clinics and one administration office throughout Texas, stretching from San Antonio to Dallas.

The “three-legged stool” of guiding principles that provide the sturdy foundation of the TexPTS organization are: • Clinical Excellence — Running an evidence-based practice staffed by board-certified physical therapists and proven leaders in the PT industry • AmaZing! Care — Delivering high-quality, outcome-driven care based on nationwide data and analysis • “Called to Care” Culture — Providing the best patient experience possible Texas Physical Therapy Specialists has far exceeded that vague dream Rob Wainner had in his hammock more than nine years ago. The practice and its doctors have helped to transform the PT profession and its practitioners on an international level.

For more information visit, www.TexPTS.com

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The goal of physical therapy is to help patients recover the use of joints and muscles through non-surgical treatment of musculoskeletal conditions. Methods include manual (hands-on) physical therapy, active supervised exercise and education.

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HEALTH

THE BRAIN-CHANGER FOR

GAME-CHANGERS Understanding and unlocking your true potential BY DR. PHYLLIS BOOKS

SOMETIMES MAKING CHANGES MEANS LOOKING FOR NONTRADITIONAL SOLUTIONS.

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o you ever feel like you’re becoming Bill Murray in the classic movie, Groundhogs Day?You know the feeling when you wake up and realize today is going to be a lot like yesterday and the day before and the week before and the year before? Oh no, another day like that? What if you could start today and instead, experience the enhanced, upgraded version of you? What if there could be a new plot in your life, a new reward system – a whole new operating system? That’s exactly what I do; I help successful people become even more successful. And the people, both adults and children, who are stuck and operating nowhere near their potential and don’t have a clue how to convert to a different plan for their life. That’s where I step in. I love “defragging” and “clearing the cache” in their hardware and software a.k.a mind and body. I love watching the “real you” emerge once the obstacles are removed. If you have the gnawing feeling you aren’t doing your real purpose or you could do it with more ease and grace if certain parts of your own brain didn’t get in the way, you might want to consider a systems inventory and overhaul. Make 2016 the year you bring your best self forward You owe it to yourself to make sure there are no hidden problems that keep you from evolving into a more elegant, sleek and efficient version of you. Why would you want to settle for being less than you could be, offer less to your loved ones, to your profession? If you have a brain that works less efficiently than you’d like, you need to know that your brain is very changeable. And, you need to find out how the various systems inside of you that interact with your brain are functioning too. That is, are all systems communicating with each other efficiently. If you’re a business owner reading this, please know you can increase your Return on Investment by upgrading your own brain. If you’re a mother, please know the brains of your children and your spouse are very changeable. We used to think that once the brain was formed, it didn’t change. Now we now that’s just not true. So don’t let anyone tell you to settle for the brain and current operating system. Sometimes making changes means looking for non-traditional solutions. One of the strengths of entrepreneurs is that they don’t expect to find answers the way other people do. They are used to thinking outside the box and seeing solutions in new and innovative ways. Even successful entrepreneurs, however, might consider brain upgrades so they don’t over use some parts of their brains at the expense of other body and brain parts.

Did you know that 35 percent of entrepreneurs consider themselves dyslexic? And a whopping 70 percent are ADHD? We think of dyslexia as reversing numbers and letters, but its way more complicated than that. What I’ve learned over the last 30 years is that dyslexia, ADHD, and many other diagnoses that tag along have a neurological component. That means big change is possible! So dyslexia doesn’t need to shadow you for the rest of your life. Dyslexia (a.k.a. brain’s out- of- synch) shows up in the work place as: • Avoiding emails • Spelling errors • Slow processing speeds for some tasks • Superconductor speed for other tasks • Inconsistency – some days a task is easy, and the next day, or next hour, it’s not • Thoughts and words come out twisted or not the way you meant • Writing down one number when a different number is in your head Possible complications by other related issue such as: • ADHD • Sleep issues • Unhealed concussions or head traumas • TMJ – jaw joint issues • Allergies and inflammation • Completion anxiety • Mood imbalances Why defragging your brain is necessary If your brain is having timing and synchronization issues, it’s time for “defragging” your brain. Your brain may be running on outdated programs. Signals may be going to the wrong places or not storing data where it’s easy to retrieve. You may find yourself not able to keep up if your operating system is storing information inefficiently. Your brain is left in yesteryear and so are your business and your chances for success. Conversion strategies to a better brain First of all, you need to know it is absolutely possible to change your brain and to open up parts of your brain that have been dormant. Books like The Brain That Changes Itself by Norman Doidge and Dan Amen’s Change Your Brain, Change Your Life, give us real life examples of how the “central dogma” that brains don’t change just isn’t true. Thanks to very modern and sophisticated measuring devices, we can now track real changes. Steps involved in upgrading your brain System Diagnostics Assess various systems that affect the brain’s performance • Neurotransmitter testing • Heavy metal testing and mineral analysis • Structural and neurological examination • Baseline testing for cognitive, physical and emotions • Health history

Install new updates • Bring in a Master Technician, someone certified in Books Neural Therapy™ • Clear the cache • Defrag • Create new neural pathways • Repeat the neurological stimulus until the new paths are fast and automatic • Turn the system off, allow time for rest and integration and then reboot Make new possibilities a reality in your life • Take time to imagine what your life can be like once your brain is workingwithout glitches • Warning #1: One of the big transformations if you upgrade your brain is that everything seems “lighter” and you find yourself laughing for no reason. • What new hobbies would you like to explore • What have you always wanted to do but thought you couldn’t • What kinds of skills and aptitudes might you now access that you could apply in your work • How does the way you relate to people improve • Warning #2: You will have more time for family and friends ... because your brain is working more efficiently. Make this the best year ever – for yourself, for your loved ones, for your business. Everyone, including you, will thank you a thousand times over. Bring on the music and let’s celebrate the new you.

Dr. Books is an author, educator, doctor and new thought leader. She is the founder of Books Neural Therapy™, a well-documented, systematic approach to dissolving dyslexia, ADHD, head traumas, and many chronic health issues. Her book, Reversing Dyslexia: Improving Learning and Behavior Without Drugs was released in 2013 by Square One Publishing.Another book about her work, House of Miracles, was written by Bernice Dotz. Also in 2013, Dr. Books released the world’s first online treatment class for parents,The Dyslexia Reversal System. In 2014, she added online and live classes of BNT ™ for professionals. Her formal education includes an undergraduate degree in education and English from Michigan State University, a master’s degree in interpersonal communications from the University of North Texas and a doctor of chiropractic from Parker University. She has taught and lectured in the U.S., Europe and Australia. Her alma mater granted her the Outstanding International Alumni Award for her many contributions. For more information visit, www.drphyllisbooks.com

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MENTAL HEALTH

STEPS TO CHANGING

BEHAVIOR

Making positive changes stick with these simple solutions

ith a new year often comes new resolutions and a renewed interest to change old behaviors that don’t work anymore or are just in the way. And, we all know how short-lived the resolutions can be. It seems as soon as the Christmas decorations have been put away and the college bowl games have all been played, our resolutions lose steam and are placed in the closet next to

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the Santa Clause waiting for our return next holiday season. Changing behaviors is hard. Maintaining the change is even harder. So, what can we do differently that will help us replace the old with the new? STEP ONE: Understand the behavior’s context. Changes in relationships are a major New Year’s resolution, be it a change in your

relationship to your partner, your work, diet, or anything else. Maybe it’s a desire to have less conflict with your partner, have a healthier life-work balance, or to not emotionally eat so much. Take a moment and reflect on the sequence of events that put the behavior in motion. What are the triggers? What’s going on before, during, and after the behavior? Whatever it may be, behaviors don’t occur in a vacuum. They occur in a context, influenced

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BY BRAD KENNINGTON, LMFT, LPC

by our thoughts and feelings, reactions to others, and our environment. Know the terrain and you will know how to redraw the map. STEP TWO: Ask yourself what function does the behavior serve? Alfred Adler, a student of Sigmund Freud, espoused that “all behavior is purposive.” And this holds true even for those actions that are problematic. It is not uncommon to see legitimate needs beneath “bad” behavior. For example, chronic conflict can be an attempt to get your partner’s attention, to be noticed, and to connect. Working excessively may be a way to feel empowered when you feel out of control in another area of your life. Turning to food can be a way to cope, albeit temporarily, with negative emotions like depression or loneliness. Wanting to be noticed and connected or feeling empowered or needing to cope are real needs that deserve real attention. Identify your needs and your current attempts to meet them. Is your strategy working for you or against you?

Brad Kennington, LMFT, LPC Therapist & Author Brad Kennington & Associates Brad Kennington, LMFT, LPC is a therapist and consultant in private practice in West Austin. Brad provides therapy to adults and adolescents and focuses on relationship issues, anxiety, and eating disorders. Because of his expertise, Brad has been interviewed by Huff Post Live and satellite radio and has been quoted by Reuters, the Wall Street Journal and Huffington Post. Brad also consults with organizations that have experienced a traumatic event. In addition to his practice, Brad is a faculty member and clinical supervisor at the Austin Family Institute. He is a board member of the National Association for Males with Eating Disorders and a Clinical Fellow of the American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy.To contact Brad, you can reach him at 512.329.5595 or at info@ bradkennington.com.

STEP THREE: What needs to shift? There is a lot we can’t control, but the one thing we can control is how we respond to our environment. If you are not getting what you need, then shift gears. Own your part in the problem. Do something different. This is the scary part because it often requires us to be vulnerable. It’s easier to start a fight with your partner than to ask for more closeness. It’s easier to escape into overworking or overeating than to lean into what is causing us to feel inadequate or less than. Shifting involves showing up and taking ownership. It takes courage to redraw the map and chart the course you want to follow. When embarking on new behaviors you can expect to feel lost at times as old behaviors sometimes can show back up. It’s all part of the process of change. Keep at it and trust the process.

For more information visit, www.bradkennington.com

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LEARN HOW TO OVERCOME NERVES ON THE

GOLF COURSE Four techniques from the Academy of Golf Dynamics to improve your game on and off the course BY KYLE JEROME

ervousness and golf go together like a dog and fleas; they don’t always get along, but the link between the two are a fact of life. Whether you play the game recreationally or in competition, you are likely to get nervous at some point, for some reason. Nervousness even affects the best players in the world, men and women alike. If you fall into this category, don’t feel badly; you are not alone. Furthermore, don’t let this fact of life get you down. Professional golfer, Tom Watson, had a hard time closing and winning tournaments when he first came out on the PGA Tour. He went on to win eight major championships. We all know about Greg Norman’s struggles with pressure during his career. He won two majors! That’s more than Fred Couples, for those of you keeping track. Tour players are like you and me, they’re human and get nervous too. The difference is they know how to perform when they’re nervous. Let’s look at four very effective ways to overcome this invisible enemy. EMBRACE YOUR NERVOUSNESS The first step in playing nervous is to embrace your nervousness. What I mean by this is, go ahead and admit you’re nervous. You know when you’re nervous and most likely so do your playing partners/competitors. Begin by replacing the word “nervous” with “anxious.” It just sounds better and has a more positive ring to it. Fighting it will only make you more nervous and sap your energy. Look at playing golf while being nervous as a challenge. Now, all of a sudden your mind set has changed from “defensive” to “offensive.” BREATH AND SLOW DOWN Consistent breathing is one of the best techniques to overcoming nervousness. Take

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long, slow, deep breaths, and slow down. This not only helps slow your heart rate, but has a calming effect mentally. Along with calming you down, breathing slowly helps more oxygen reach your brain, which in turn, helps you think better. Nervous people tend to speed up and eventually you find yourself just trying to get the next shot over with. Don’t slow down so much that you interfere with the pace of play, but slow your walk a little between shots. It will help calm your nerves so you can perform to your best capabilities. VISUALIZE SUCCESS Visualization plays a major role in the game of golf. In many things that are “mental” like golf, you should have a good, positive picture of what you want before you perform. A good pre-shot routine will help you see in your mind what you want to do while also help you get in a comfortable rhythm. There is not one tour player who doesn’t have a pre-shot routine. Furthermore, a pre-shot routine is something anyone can do well. Anyone can have a pre-shot routine that’s as good as the best players in the world. Practice it so it comes naturally when you’re playing. It will become your “comfort zone.” FOCUS ON THE PROCESS NOT THE RESULTS One of the major causes of nervousness is concentrating too much on the results instead of the process. Don’t worry about your score, concentrate on the next shot. The saying, “one shot at a time” is an old cliché, but it is probably the most relevant saying in golf. Like building a house, you wouldn’t focus on the windows or the roof before your slab is poured. The same principle applies here. In order to shoot the score you would be happy with, you must first hit the shots that will get you to that score. You are building something when you play golf and each shot is a block in that building. Augie Garrido, the baseball coach at The University of Texas, tells his players to play nine, one-inning games during a game. Win each inning and you’ll win the game. If you start worrying about winning the game, you put pressure on yourself that decreases the level of your performance. Golf is no different. Key on each shot, one at a time, and in the end you are more likely to see the results you want. These are just four techniques you can use to help you play better when you are nervous. You may have some other ways to calm For more your nerves when you information visit, play and that’s great. Get www.golfdynamics.com. in close with nervousness and take it on like hand-to-hand combat. Success sits on throne, it doesn’t collapse like a folding chair.

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SPORTS

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SPORTS

MAKE 2016 YOUR FITTEST YEAR YET With a little of the latest technology, experts Xavier Ramirez and Kara Sandoval, of UR Fit Wellness Center, get back to basics BY DAVINA BRUNO / PHOTOS BY STEVE DEMENT

he health landscape in Austin is, by all standards, very rich. Every quarter or so, a new craze comes to the fore, a new branding of fitness clubs open up, and people start exercising and eating in new ways. This vibrancy makes the city perfect for starting enterprises aimed at holistic, lasting health, one of which is UR Fit Wellness Center located at 10601 Ranch Road 2222 Austin. Only a few months old, the center has already made a name for itself by responding to people’s health needs in a thorough, careful manner and with a true passion for health and fitness. The typical journey with UR Fit Wellness Center begins with an assessment using their Fit3D body scanner along with a functional movement screening, and the full assessment measures overall wellness, blood pressure, and body fat composition. Along with this, is the nutrition portion where clients are given a monthly meal plan, interactive cooking classes, as well as local and organic meals from the chefs at Seed. The third pillar of the UR Fit model is the fitness portion that includes boot camp/fitness classes, personal training, and monthly workouts and assessments. For owner, Xavier Ramirez, UR Fit is a natural progression from his 12 years of experience in fitness and wellness, and his training with the NAFC. Xavier noticed the inefficiency health clients face with going to one facility to exercise and another to find specialist nutritional advice. He created the center to combine the different aspects of health so that it is easier for clients to reach their lifestyle goals. Along with the center’s wellness manager, Kara Sandoval, who received her certification with PTA Global, Ramirez also

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HE CREATED THE CENTER TO COMBINE THE DIFFERENT ASPECTS OF HEALTH SO THAT IT IS EASIER FOR CLIENTS TO REACH THEIR LIFESTYLE GOALS.

strives to take care of the mental health of clients. At the start of the fitness journey, clients fill out a questionnaire which helps reveal each person’s true motivation for living healthier. According to Xavier, knowing this guides him and Kara better, and gives them something specific with which to motivate clients to reach their goals. There is also an affirmation post in the middle of the center; clients write positive messages on the metal beam as a continuous source of self encouragement. Apart from these methods, Xavier and Kara are both experienced in client care in the mental sphere because of their training and years of experience in various fitness competitions. Xavier hopes to expand the scope of the gym over time as some alarming trends arise in Austin, including fad diets. According to Ramirez, restrictive habits, like the Paleo diet, are becoming more common, and continue to cause long-term physical damage because they do not include enough vitamins and minerals to support true health. This is where he and Kara show true excitement because the center’s delicious and nutritious meals are meant to sustain wellness while taking the boredom and stress out of healthy living. Xavier and Kara also noticed that many Austinites rush into fitness classes without taking their personal fitness level into consideration. Often, classes are too difficult for clients and they get hurt or burned out. UR Fit, in response to this trend, is committed to assessing clients carefully and gradually introducing challenges as client fitness improves. With time, Ramirez hopes to expand the impact of the center and reverse some of these trends by educating the local community about nutrition and fitness, and by opening another center in the downtown area.

AS UR FIT WELCOMES IN THE NEW YEAR AS A NEW BUSINESS, XAVIER AND KARA HAVE SOME TIPS ON STARTING 2016 OFF STRONG. 1/ Set realistic goals that are measurable and tangible. 2/ Write those goals on sticky notes or mirrors around your home. This will be a constant reminder for accountability. 3/ Take small steps first to achieving your goals, anywhere from eating one healthy meal a day or even working out once or twice a week. 4/ Use your family as a support system. This is the most important – know that you will fail along the way, and you may fail many times, but that’s ok, no need to feel guilt at all. It’s about the journey, just get back up and keep at it. Eventually those falls will be fewer and less painful.

For more information visit, www.urfitwellnesscenter.com

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Health & Beauty

7 STEPS to stunning Dr. Ling helps us maintain our youth and look our best yet BY DR. SHIRAT LING

ecently, I was the second oldest person at a holiday party. Despite the guests guessing I was in my late 20s, no one asked me for beauty advice, but they should have.

Here are some tips to keep it fresh:

2/ Get some zzz’s – give your body enough time to repair and regenerate. Each person has his/her own optimal sleep time; women tend to need more hours of sleep, and suffer more from lack of it than men. 3/ Eat a balanced diet – do not avoid one category of food. A variety of food types are necessary, in moderation, for optimal health. Choose complex carbohydrates over simple ones, whole grains over white bread

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or flour. Women need to eat more protein than they think; it serves a multitude of functions, including healing and muscle building. 4/ Exercise regularly – it helps both physically and mentally. Don’t resolve to go from a couch potato to a triathlete; it’s a bit unrealistic to expect such instant transformative powers. Just increase duration and frequency, so it becomes a habit, and choose something you enjoy doing, so you continue to do it. Take health breaks at work, and take a walk or do some lunges down the hall; it will clear your head so you can be more productive, in addition to burning some calories. 5/ Consider some minimally invasive cosmetic procedures to keep aging at bay. a. Botox. My general guideline for neuromodulators is if the wrinkle stays when you are not making the expression, i.e. someone asks if

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1/ Stay hydrated – internally and externally. Drink at least half of your body weight in ounces (50 ounces if you weigh 100 Ibs) if you are not very active and more if you exercise, or drink caffeinated or alcoholic beverages. Use a moisturizer appropriate for your skin type; if you have acned or oily skin, you should still use an oil-free moisturizer. You may need to switch to a more nourishing one in the wintertime, since you are exposed to drier air from heaters. Avoid wearing matte makeup, it dries out your skin and enhances wrinkles. Switch to a BB or CC cream with a light tint and let your natural skin shine through a bit.

c. Microneedling. Using a device with several tiny needles, micropores are created in the skin to help with scarring, pore size, and even stretch marks. This has minimal down time and can be combined with PRP (platelet-rich plasma, which contains eight different growth factors) to enhance the results. d. Fat-dissolving injections. Kybella has been approved for the dissolving of fat cells in the chin area. This does require some downtime and some puffiness for a couple of weeks, and takes a few sessions for full results. e. Photofacials. Using an Intense Pulsed Light device, unwanted pigment is targeted and destroyed. The fried brown spots have the appearance of coffee grounds on your face for a few days, then lift off the surface. A few monthly sessions may be necessary. 6/ Then there are ablative procedures – The CO2 fractional laser vaporizes some of the damage from years past, but long-term results vary depending on how well patients treat their skin afterwards. Diligent use of sunblock, vitamin C serums, peptides, and retinols all contribute to a better decade of aging than the previous decades of sunbathing with baby oil and iodine. Resurfacing the skin creates new collagen, evens out tone and texture, and improves sag, acne scars, and pigmentation.

Dr. Shirat Ling

personally performs all the medical cosmetic procedures at her South First Street office. She has performed over 9,500 ablative laser procedures and has been in medical practice for 15 years, 10 of which she has spent performing and instructing in medical cosmetic procedures.

7/ Anti-aging skin products to maintain your results after procedures. a. Retinoids. These products encourage cell turnover and collagen production. Start these once or twice weekly, and increase frequency as you can tolerate. b. Peptides help plump up wrinkles and fine lines

you are mad at them when you are just looking at them. That’s the time to consider neuromodulators, and less is more. You don’t want to lose the ability to emote, it’s kind of a human trait. Incidentally, Botox for “prevention of wrinkles” targeting 20-year olds is generally a bunch of hype. I’ll tell the young ones their money would be better spent on quality skincare products, facial brushes, and the occasional microdermabrasion. b. Dermal fillers. Lighter fillers like Belotero and Restylane Silk are great for the vertical lip lines, laugh line creases, hollow under eyes, and even deep crow’s feet. The medium-density fillers like Restylane, Juvederm, and Radiesse are great for deeper lines, like the nasolabial smile lines, deflated lips, and more superficial depressions. The volumizing fillers, like Sculptra and Voluma, help lift fallen cheekbones, hollow temples and cheeks, and the hollow areas under the corners of the mouth.

c. Vitamin C serums provide antioxidant protection from the damaging UV rays and other pollutants. They also brighten the skin. d. Pigment regulators, such as hydroquinone, kojic acid, and arbutin help even out and prevent those unwanted brown spots. e. SPF. Not only is this for prevention of future damage, but it helps protect the work that has been done that got you this far. Wear at least SPF 30, and reapply every hour; even waterproof SPF lasts only 80 minutes. Take it from a vampire – some of the best beauty advice is the tried and true kind, along with a few innovations to help catalyze change. Combining internal and external health habits will serve you well for eternal youth.

For more information, visit www.innatebeauty.com.

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Health & Beauty

HAVE A COSMETIC MEDICAL PROCEDURE

Dr. Alina Sholar gives us expert advice to make sure you are in the right hands BY DR. ALINA SHOLAR

ach day you look in the mirror and see a few more lines, sun spots, saggy places, and maybe just something you’ve never really like about your body. You say to yourself, “enough is enough,” and make the decision to finally do something for yourself. After all, you’re worth it!

THE AGE OF THE INTERNET AND COSMETIC PROCEDURES Where do you go for advice when you’re thinking about having a cosmetic procedure done? Do you turn to friends, your primary care doctor, review websites, or search The Yellow Pages? Those used to be the only ways that people got recommendations for who to trust to enhance their appearance; but today, odds are just as good that you’ll jump straight onto a social networking site like Facebook or Twitter before you head into a doctor’s office for a face-to-face consultation. According to a study conducted by the American Academy of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery (AAFPRS), 42 percent of patients said that in 2011, they did most of their plastic surgery research—and got most of their answers—on social media sites. Compare that to even just the year before, when 63 percent of patients said they would ask friends for plastic surgery advice first (now down to 48 percent). Times, they are a-changing! For my part, I think it’s incredible that patients have access to so much information online these days; it can be a wonderful resource to turn to. That said, I do worry that people can sometimes lean too heavily on social media—and even just Google searches—to get their medical information and “credentials” of their cosmetic practices these days. The issue with only using the Internet to do your research, of course,

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and feel a real connection with your surgeon because, from then on, you will feel like family. It truly makes all the difference!

WHO ARE THE EXPERTS? BOARDCERTIFIED PLASTIC SURGEONS So, how do you find the facility with the real experts that offer the aesthetic treatment that you are interested in? Keep in mind that even Botox, fillers, and lasers must be purchased by a physician, however that physician can be an OBGYN, ER doc, ENT, or even a dentist in some cases. Although they are experts in their own field, they often have no specialized education of the skin, it’s disorders, or the gold standard of medical cosmetic treatments. Neither are they trained to perform aesthetic cosmetic procedures as a plastic surgeon would. They may have taken a weekend course and call themselves a “cosmetic surgeon,” but appearances are deceiving. I always say, “Plastic surgery residency training takes seven years to complete. That’s not because we’re slow! It simply takes that long to receive the proper education that a plastic surgeon needs to do a great job for you!” A board-certified plastic surgeon is a specialist in the anatomy and physiology of the body, including the skin, and more often than not, they have had a significant depth of education and training with lasers, peels, and other aesthetic services in addition to their surgical skills. They are only certified through The American Board of Plastic Surgery. So, if

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What to know BEFORE YOU

is that anyone can say anything online without having to substantiate their claims, both about physicians and treatment choices. There’s a lot of misinformation out there, and when it comes to your health, wholeheartedly assuming that what you’re reading is entirely true and accurate is not a risk you should be taking. At-home research is usually where informed consumers start their endeavor of deciding what treatments are available and the basics of how they work, but be forewarned. The internet can be the first source of misinformation! If you feel you must use the internet as an information source, educate yourself as much as possible with the basics of the desired treatment by visiting pro sites like the ASLMS (American Society for Laser Medicine & Surgery), ASAPS (American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery), or the ASPS (American Society of Plastic Surgeons). My advice would be to take full advantage of what the Internet has to offer. Crowdsource your answers on Facebook, Twitter, and other social networking sites. Google your heart out. Then, schedule a consultation with a Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon, or even a few Board-Certified Plastic Surgeons if you feel you haven’t made the right connection yet with a physician, before you make any decisions. Written internet-gathered knowledge is valuable, but nothing beats a formal face-toface consultation with an expert in the industry. This way, you can get to know each other. You need to be comfortable

you don’t see this in their credentials, head the other way! The outcome of your procedure depends heavily on the skillfulness of the surgeon’s hands. Sometimes this develops from experience, but other times, it may not. A welltrained surgeon who has performed your desired procedure many times will know what to do in the event of a medical emergencyespecially critical if complications arise in the middle of the operation. The physician is responsible for supervising the delegation of certain procedures to their staff, also preferably experts in their own right, recommending and performing the injectable or laser services. Doesn’t it make sense to choose a facility that the supervising physician is experienced and knowledgeable about the treatments and procedures as the person who will be doing them? They are experts in the latest treatments and procedures for the health and aesthetic of the skin, and are well prepared to handle any adverse event that could occur.

SKILLED AND TALENTED PROFESSIONALS

ACCORDING TO A STUDY CONDUCTED BY THE AMERICAN ACADEMY OF FACIAL PLASTIC AND RECONSTRUCTIVE SURGERY (AAFPRS), 42 PERCENT OF PATIENTS SAID THAT IN 2011, THEY DID MOST OF THEIR PLASTIC SURGERY RESEARCH – AND GOT MOST OF THEIR ANSWERS – ON SOCIAL MEDIA SITES.

Once you’ve found a facility with a board-certified plastic surgeon as the active medical director, look for registered nurses and laser-certified medical aestheticians who are performing cosmetic procedures such as Botox, injectables, and laser treatments. Our medical aestheticians are members of the SPSSCS (Society of Plastic Surgical Skincare Specialists), which means you get the highest quality treatment available. Their extensive training and education in techniques, products, skill, and science creates an atmosphere where we can educate you on the needs of your skin, and you get superior service and products. These are medical professionals who must take a supervised and proctored examination, as well as accomplish a

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minimum number of clinical hours per procedure, to practice. So, unless your facility has truly educated and trained staff, you are putting yourself at grave risk! And, yes, there are far too many “medspas” out there who have little-to-no supervision, let alone by a plastic surgeon and with well-trained staff. Scary, right? So, don’t be bashful! Be sure to ask about credentials. If they are truly experts and well-educated, they would be proud of the achievement as these true certifications cost them thousands of dollars, as well as an investment of their time. They will be confident and happy that you are an informed consumer who seeks the best possible aesthetic treatment. If they aren’t, it could be risky.

NEVER BE LEFT GUESSING In seeking the answers you need to make well-informed decisions, the staff should be able to create a program to fit your needs and allows you to know exactly when you need to be treated again. In our practice, our plans for skincare and wellness are exact and determined on your unique needs. We promise to share our most guarded secrets about scientific skincare when you become a patient or client. Our treatment menu evolves as new, exciting, and proven techniques emerge. We only use the highest quality products and equipment. No cutting corners using the “cheaper product” on you during your aesthetic, injectable, facial, or laser treatment. Yes, other medspas actually do that!

£ What kind of recovery should I expect? £ What can I do to speed up and maximize my recovery? £ Is the practitioner an experienced medical aesthetician, nurse, or other well-credentialed provider that has advanced training certificates along with specific experience? You may still be in good hands, but my advice, if you are unsure, is to consult with more than one provider. £ Definitely don’t “price shop,” cheaper is not always a better value.

THE QUESTIONS I WANT YOU TO ASK As previously mentioned, it is very important to establish the doctor’s credentials, questions about his or her training, and certification. However, according to the ASAPS, it is also important to verify a doctor’s claims with a reliable, independent source, such as your state medical board or the American Board of Medical Specialties. Other important details to ask about include where the procedure will be performed, how much it will cost, what the potential complications are, and what type of recovery should be expected. EmpowHer.com interviewed plastic surgeons to determine the specific questions that doctors themselves wish their patients would ask during consultations. They recommend five specific questions for those considering undergoing plastic surgery:

£ Be patient. Scheduling with a great registered nurse, medical aesthetician, or certified laser technologist will likely be more difficult, but well worth the wait.

£ Are my expectations reasonable?

Dr. Alina Sholar is a Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon and Medical Director of Serenity Creek MedSpa and Sage & Sweetgrass Spa. See sees patients for plastic surgery consultations at both locations.

£ Is there anything that can be done beforehand to help make my overall experience and results better?

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Just remember, when it’s time to seek aesthetic cosmetic procedures, you want a real connection to the professionals performing your procedures. They’re passionate about what they do, and they are proud of the hard work and dedication they have put into their education so that they can be the best provider for you.

For more information visit, www.serenitycreek.com or www.sageandsweetgrassspa.com

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£ Can you foresee any factors interfering with my final outcome?

£ Finally, follow your instincts. If you make a mistake and find yourself the victim of a medical cosmetic nightmare, then come see me!

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DINING

& NUTRITION

Effortless, Nutritious Recipes and Ingredients

DELIVERED RIGHT TO YOUR DOOR

HelloFresh makes it easy to eat healthy this New Year

BY NICOLE CARBON

THE HOUSE SMELLED LIKE A HOME FOR THE FIRST TIME IN MONTHS WITH AROMAS OF QUALITY INGREDIENTS MARRIED TOGETHER WHIRLING THROUGH THE AIR. 54

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PHOTOS COURTESY OF HELLOFRESH

s I arrived home on a recent midweek work evening, there was a box on my front porch marked, in welcoming fresh green print, HelloFresh. It was like Christmas all over again and this gift could not have been more spot on. Fresh, healthy food portioned to make delicious easy recipes that were created and included; not having to go to the grocery store after a long work day or getting creative thinking up what to make for dinner when my brain was fried after a long day, yes please! The name of the recipes that were personally selected were listed on the side of the box with nutritional information. I selected the Spiced Moroccan Lentil and Chickpea Soup, Seared Steak and Crispy Potato Salad with Tomatoes, Green Beans, and Shallot Pan-Sauce, and the Walnut-Crusted Salmon. Inside the box was a thoughtful apron and three boxes of perfectly portioned fresh ingredients. The bottom layer of the box contained the protein placed under reusable icepacks. HelloFresh offers portioned meal kits with fresh, high-quality ingredients delivered right to your door. You select the portion size based on the number of people you are cooking for and which recipes you wish to create. Their chefs create weekly recipes that fall under the categories of Classic Box, for omnivores; Veggie Box, for herbivores; and Family Box, for larger portions. The first evening I prepared the salmon. While finely chopping the shallot and walnuts, I found myself thinking that although the recipes were simple, using fairly fundamental ingredients, they provided a fresh way to look at cooking foods we normally prepare in alternate and very tasty ways. For instance, Dijon mustard is a staple in my salad dressing, but I wouldnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t have thought to cover salmon in it before encrusting it in walnuts â&#x20AC;&#x201C; a food item that is usually a snack on its own. Same with the broccoli, oven roasting it brought about an entirely different flavor profile to the meal. Dinner turned out to be absolutely superb with no credit to myself, but rather the creators of these recipes

and the fresh ingredients that were provided. The house smelled like a home for the first time in months with aromas of quality ingredients married together whirling through the air. The next meal, while full of flavor was one of the most difficult to make – full disclosure, I’m not a regular cook. In my home, it’s more like wine, snacks, and chocolate for dinner. I get the greens in by way of morning smoothies or at lunch, to go! The steak with green bean and potato salad recipe included several steps and my cooking range is not properly ventilated, my small home smelled of seared onions and steak for a couple of days. The dish did, however, turn out delicious and worth the effort. My last and favorite recipe to prepare was the Spiced Moroccan Lentil and Chickpea Soup. Not sure if it was because of little cleanup and ease or the warmth of the dish at the beginning of a cold winter. It was a one-pan stovetop meal that provided nutrition and was flavorful and easy to make to boot. This recipe card might have to be lamented. Perfectly portioned ingredients included scallions, chickpeas, cumin, diced tomatoes, vegetable stock, red lentils, smoked paprika, and accompaniments of sour cream and whole wheat pitas. The other element of HelloFresh that is particularly appealing is the recipes are noted on a numeric level their level of difficulty – the soup being a number one – food allergy and preferences, this one being nut free and vegetarian, and cooking time. They also have a registered dietitian on staff. The experience HelloFresh offers is hands down a winner and a service I’d recommend time and time again. Along with providing easy, healthy ways to make dinner, HelloFresh also spikes the creativity levels when it’s time to decide what to make for dinner.

For more information visit, www.hellofresh.com

HelloFresh

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DINING

START THE NEW YEAR OFF RIGHT WITH

HEALTHY Dining Out Options

Blackfinn Ameripub has traditional pub fare served along side healthy choices

“BLACKFINN AMERIPUB has a menu driven by guest choice,” says manager, Heather Tipton. Located in The Domain this American Pub offers diners so much more than traditional pub fare. While the menu leans on classic comfort items such as meatloaf and shrimp and grits, rest assured you can dine here and stick to your New Year’s resolution.” Opened nearly two years, this dining gem is offering something for everyone with a multifaceted menu that will help you, or at least allow you, to choose healthy options. Blackfinn Ameripub was originated to be a whole new generation of the classic American pub fare. It’s a lively restaurant and bar that offers the affordable, and equally delicious, American food you’ll want to eat. Along with great food there is an extensive list of craft beers and signature cocktails offered. There truly is something for everyone. Tipton adds, “We’re the perfect place for friends, family, and business patrons to meet for lunch, dinner, happy hour, game day, late night, and community gatherings!” “If it’s time for you to indulge try the Bacon Wrapped Meatloaf or savory Shrimp & Grits,” says Tipton. “We also offer a range of menu items on the lighter side. To help guide guests to more figure-friendly options, we have a menu icon designating lighter choices such as our Lime Seared Salmon, the California Naked Bird, or one of our many salads including the Mango Avocado Shrimp Salad packed with fresh ingredients and tossed with a house-made mango vinaigrette. If you are looking for a few superfoods, the Kale Quinoa salad has got you covered. Dried cranberries and apricots, mint, carrot julienne, and a pine nuts add to the flavor.” No matter what you are in the mood for, or for which occasion, Blackfinn Ameripub’s broad variety of classic American favorites will treat you to a great meal. This recipe is one of Blackfinn’s featured, and figure-friendly, menu options. KALE QUINOA SALAD • 3.5 oz. kale • 4.5 oz. quinoa, cooked • 2 oz. cranberry & apricot chutney • .5 oz. carrots, julienne

• 1 tablespoon red bell pepper, diced • 1 teaspoon pine nuts • 1 oz. Greek dressing

Combine kale, quinoa, and Greek dressing in large bowl. Add chutney and toss. Pile high in a bowl and garnish with carrots, red bell peppers, and pine nuts. For more information visit, www.blackfinnameripub.com

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WE ALSO OFFER A RANGE OF MENU ITEMS ON THE LIGHTER SIDE. TO HELP GUIDE GUESTS TO MORE FIGUREFRIENDLY OPTIONS, WE HAVE A MENU ICON DESIGNATING LIGHTER CHOICES.

PHOTO COURTESY OF BLACKFINN AMERIPUB

BY NICOLE CARBON

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109 W. 7th St. • 512-864-2773 • www.novitaspa.com A U S T I N MD M A G A Z I N E . C O M

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Baylor Scott & White Health Primary Care Clinics. Your needs are covered. When you enter a Baylor Scott & White clinic, you enter an entire health care network with access to primary and specialty care. In our integrated system, doctors communicate with each other to give you the right diagnoses and treatment. And with MyChart – our online patient portal – you can manage your care at all times. So don’t trust your family’s health to just any clinic. Get just what you need at Baylor Scott & White.

Find a location near you. bswdocs.com | 512.509.0200

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Physicians provide clinical services as members of the medical staff at one of Baylor Scott & White Health’s subsidiary, community or affiliated medical centers and do not provide clinical services as employees or agents of those medical centers, Baylor Health Care System, Scott & White Healthcare or Baylor Scott & White Health. ©2015 Baylor Scott & White Health. SWClinic_175_2015 CE 12.15