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Midland Daily News | Healthy Living
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Midland Daily News | Healthy Living
Saturday, March 12, 2022 | 3
ARE YOU MISSING SOMETHING? Doctors Speak Out Urging Patients to Close Gaps in Essential Care Among the consequences of the pandemic is that many Americans have fallen sorely behind in preventive care, with underserved groups disproportionately impacted. ow that hospitals and Nbusiness doctors’ offices are open for with safety protocols
in place, providers are urging patients to get caught up on essential tests and procedures that can prevent serious complications or even death. Although patients are more willing to resume care since vaccinations have been made readily available, numbers are still below pre-pandemic levels leaving providers concerned. A survey released by the Prevent Cancer Foundation in August of 2020 found that 43 percent of American adults had missed routine medical appointments, 35 percent of adults had missed a scheduled cancer screening, and 17 percent of parents had missed a scheduled vaccination for one or more of their children because of COVID. Epic Health Research Network reports numbers are improving but are not yet back to historical baselines. Screenings for breast cancer remain down 2.7 percent, colon cancer screenings down 3.4 percent and cervical cancer screenings down an
alarming 10 percent. Combined, these rates account for an estimated 104,000 missed screenings between January and October of 2021.
MidMichigan Health are joining with their colleagues across the nation to raise awareness of this issue and to urge their patients to take action.
Both young and old are lagging on vaccinations and immunizations other than COVID-19. In September 2021, the American Medical Association reported that more than 75 percent of adults in the U.S. are missing one or more routinely recommended vaccines to protect against influenza, pneumonia, shingles, tetanus, diphtheria and pertussis along with other recommended vaccines based on their age. In November, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) found that there was a 14 percent drop in vaccines administered to youth in 2020–2021 compared with 2019, while measles vaccine ordering was down more than 20 percent compared with 2019. This data points to a disturbing trend: patients are missing out on essential care that could minimize complications and ensure better outcomes. Worse, the same groups who have already experienced greater impacts from COVID-19 are more likely to have conditions like hypertension and diabetes that could lead to serious consequences if undetected or untreated. These groups are also less likely to have timely and affordable access to preventive care.
“While patients may regard routine visits, lab work and screenings as ‘elective’ or non-urgent, we consider them the cornerstone of excellent care,” said David Jordahl, M.D., a family medicine physician and director at MyMichigan Health Park Bay. “These tests can mean the difference between detecting conditions early while the prognosis is still good and we have many options for treatment versus having to deliver the bad news that there is little we can do at this stage.” Dr. Jordahl notes that advances in electronic medical records make it easier than ever to track and report to patients whether they are up to date on recommended screenings. He suggests that patients log into their secure patient portal or contact their provider’s office to see if they are overdue for any critical tests, and that they act promptly to schedule an appointment if their doctor’s office, insurance company or care manager reaches out to notify them of an overdue procedure.
Primary care providers at
In particular, he recommends that patients place a high priority on screenings for cancer, diabetes, hypertension, heart and vascular conditions and any other chronic conditions that they are actively managing with
their care team. These tests are listed in the table for easy reference. “We recognize that some patients may still be apprehensive. We want to ensure them that we can safely care for them and to remind them that being proactive can avoid situations that are as bad or worse than COVID,” Dr. Jordahl said. “We also want our patients to know that we are here to help them identify solutions if other factors, such as affordability or access to transportation, are preventing them from seeking care.” Prioritized Recommendations for Essential Care While this is not a comprehensive list of all recommended care, these high priority items require more frequent attention. If you’ve fallen behind, now is the time to get caught up before a serious health issue arises. The listed screening recommendations are based on average risk. Your doctor may also prioritize additional care based on your personal health history and risk factors. Adults • BMI assessment for obesity screening • Blood pressure screening • Cholesterol screening • Diabetes screening • Vaccinations (keep up to date with recommended schedule, including COVID-19) • Depression screening
• Cervical cancer screening starting at age 21, every 3 years until age 30, then every 3-5 years until age 65 • Breast cancer screening with yearly mammogram starting at age 40 • Colon cancer screening starting at age 45 (frequency depends on method for screening) • Dental exam every 6 months • Follow-up testing and treatment as recommended for any diagnosed conditions Children • Well-child visits (12 visits by age 3 then annually thereafter) • Vaccinations (keep up to date with recommended schedule) • Growth metrics at every wellchild visit • Vision/hearing screening • Behavioral/developmental screenings at every well-child visit • Depression screening starting at age 12 • Oral health assessment by primary care provider starting at 6 months of age • Follow-up testing and treatment as recommend for any diagnosed conditions Sources: Prevent Cancer Foundation, “Prevent Cancer Foundation Announces ‘Back on the Books’— A lifesaving initiative in the face of COVID-19,” August 6, 2020, https://www. preventcancer.org/2020/08/ Continued pg 4
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Continued from pg 3 tion, “COVID-19 not the only condition for which many go prevent-cancer-foundationannounces-back-on-the-books- unvaccinated,” Sept. 30, 2021, https://www.ama-assn.org/ a-lifesaving-initiative-in-thedelivering-care/public-health/ face-of-covid-19/ covid-19-not-only-condiAmerican Medical Association-which-many-go-unvacci-
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nated American Medical Association, “How the pandemic sent childhood immunization rates plummeting, Nov. 10, 2021, https://www.ama-assn.org/delivering-care/
public-health/how-pandemic-sent-childhood-immunization-rates-plummeting Mast, et al, “Troubling Cancer Screening Rates Still Seen Nearly Two Years Into the Pandemic,” Jan. 18, 2022, https://
epicresearch.org/articles/troubling-cancer-screening-ratesstill-seen-nearly-two-years-into-the-pandemic
your average registered nurse, but less so than a doctor.
Occupational therapy assistants and aides help patients develop, recover and improve as well as maintain the skills needed for daily life. The growth rate for this field is 34%, much faster than average.
23%.
Fastest-Growing Fields
Health care jobs are expected to grow 16% from 2020 to 2030, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics says, and that’s much faster than the growth rate for other professions. growth comes Ttionhefromandprojected an aging U.S. populaa greater demand for health care services.
Here are some health care occupations that are beating the average growth rate, according to the BLS. Nurse Practitioners The projected growth rate for nurse practitioners is an astronomical 52%. Nurse practitioners are advanced practice registered nurses that are trained to assess patient needs, order
and interpret diagnostic and lab tests, diagnose disease, and formulate and prescribe treatment plans. They typically have more training and certifications than
Occupational Therapy Assistants
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Athletic Trainers These specialized medical professionals prevent, diagnose and treat muscle and bone injuries and illnesses, usually sustained during sports. Many of them work in educational settings, such as at colleges and universities, but some are also employed in fitness centers or for professional sports teams. The growth rate for this job is
Genetic Counselors This is another advanced field — typically requiring at least a master’s degree, that has huge projected growth rate of 26%. Genetic counselors asses individual or family risk for a variety of inherited conditions and work in university medical centers, hospitals, labs and more. Orthotists and Prosthetists These specialists design and fabricate medical supportive devices and ensure their proper fit. You’ll need both a master’s degree and certification.
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Midland Daily News | Healthy Living
Saturday, March 12, 2022 | 5
Medical Records Management Medical records are more important than ever in this age of regulation. Medical records and health information specialists manage, organize and code health information data for use in a variety of systems. They verify and validate health information, including patients’ medical histories, symptoms, treatments and test results and more. What Do They Do? Medical records and health information specialists will review patient records for completeness and accuracy. They also organize and update information in databases and registries, use classification systems to assign clinical codes for insurance reimbursement and data analysis, record data, and maintain confidentiality. Some job titles in this field include cancer registrars, health information technicians and medical coders. How to Become One These health care professionals need a high school diploma, but may need some postsecondary education such as a certificate or even a degree in health information technology. This may include courses in medical terminology, health data requirements and standards, classifications and coding systems, and other course work in health, computer science and biology. There are also certifications in the field, including the certified professional coder (CPC), the certified coding associate (CCA), certified tumor registrar (CTR)
and the registered health information technician (RHIT). You may have to pass an exam for these certifications and some may need to be renewed regularly with continuing education and other requirements. Where They Work Health information specialists work in hospitals, doctors’ offices, educational services and for governments. They usually work full time, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, but they may work evening or overnight shifts, especially in hospitals. The best wages came to those in the federal government, followed by professional services.
Growth Potential An aging population combined with a growing use of electronics records systems in the health care field means an expectation
of growth in the medical information industry. The bureau expects about 9% growth from 2020-2030, which is about the average for all occupations.
Leading the way in growth are jobs in health information technologies, medical registrars and other technical workers.
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Midland Daily News | Healthy Living
Consider Cardio
Cardiovascular routines aren’t just helpful for our hearts and lungs. They are also beneficial to our minds, give us more energy, help us manage our weight and reduce the symptoms of depression and anxiety.
T
he key is starting small, with an exercise regimen that makes sense for your level, allotted time and age. You can always build in additional activity for later, once you’ve become more experienced with the cardio routine. THE BENEFITS Cardio is best understood through four essential categories: endurance, balance, strength and flexibility. Beyond feeling better, there are specific health advantages associated with these exercises, including improved blood pressure and diabetes numbers, better lipid profiles, and healthier outcomes for those suffering from osteoporosis or neurocognitive issues. MIX IT UP Switch out the types of movements and which day you do them. Incorporate a blend of strength training, aerobic activities and movement like walking or running. Efficient regimens with lots of variety can have a direct impact on our health, our moods, our energy
levels and, down the road, our morbidity timeline.
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MAKE IT SOCIAL Walking is perhaps the easiest way to make cardiovascular improvements; it’s also one of the best exercise routines to do socially. Those who walk with others have far more accountability, tending to stick with exercise since others depend on their participation. We experience direct social benefits too, since fellowship helps with emotional well being, combats depression and loneliness, and supports general mental health. MAKE IT FUN Every-day routines can become boring over time, so don’t forget to have some fun. Listen to your favorite songs; consider taking part in one of the more dance-focused programs that improve cardio health. Treat yourself to gadgets, workout clothes or useful equipment like a stationary exercise machine when you reach a new milestone. Invite friends, family, children or co-workers along; they’ll lighten the mood. YOUR DAILY ROUTINE Whether you join a gym, or simply exercise at home, give yourself a dedicated period of exercise. And if you find you’re still too busy to carve out time? Consider expanding routine activities that can bolster wellness: Park further away at the grocery store. Go faster — or stay out longer — when you’re walking the dog. Forget the cart and carry your bags, if you can.
Healthy Living & Job Fair
Free Admission Register Today! Contact us today to reserve your space 989 839 4228
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Friday March 18, 2022 10:00 am – 3:00 pm Midland Mall 6800 Eastman Ave. Midland, MI 48642 Health and Wellness exhibits Healthy Lifestyle exhibits Recruiters available to discuss career opportunities ...and more!
2621 W Wackerly St., Ste. E Midland MI, 48640 989-496-7472 Michigan Acupuncture Clinics was one of the first practices in Michigan to offer acupuncture and Chinese medicine by doctoral-level providers. For over 20 years we have proudly served Midland, Saginaw, Bay counties and surrounding areas. Our focus is on promoting health, preventing disease and managing illness using Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), including acupuncture, herbs, and nutrition and lifestyle counseling. Now accepting Medicare patients! Medicare covers up to 20 visits of acupuncture per year for chronic low back pain lasting 12 weeks or longer. We are also accepting new VA patients. If you are a veteran interested in acupuncture, please reach out to your local VA to request an authorization to see us!
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providing quality home health care designed to keep youSaturday, safelyMarch in the Midland Daily News | Healthy Living 12, 2022 | 7 comfort of your own Our team is focused on Our providing team isquality focused on home. providing quality home health care designed to keep you home carehome. designed to safely in the comfort of health your own
Let us keep at in the keep youyou safely Let us keep you at home. comfort of your own home.
HEALTH FAIR Interested in a career in health care? yMichigan Health is M sponsoring the upcoming Health Fair at the Midland Mall
on March 18, 2022, from 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. Recruiters will be on site offering resume review and counseling, information about programs that are currently offered to prepare individuals for a successful and fulfilling career at MyMichigan, as well as assisting with on-the-spot job application. MyMichigan Health offers a wide variety of careers, programs and partnerships with other local organizations for those looking to join us in our purpose of Creating Healthy Communities – Together. Phlebotomy Course through Mid Michigan College Mid Michigan College has partnered with MyMichigan Health to offer a nine-week phlebotomy course at MyMichigan Medical Centers in Alpena and Midland. All class/computer time, practice, and clinical training will be held on our campuses. Reimbursement of all tuition and fees (approximately $1500) is available to those who pass the class and secure a full or part-time phlebotomy position in one of our labs. Ambulatory Patient Care Technician Trainee Program The Ambulatory Patient Care
Technician (PCT) Trainee Program is a two-week paid training program. The goal of the program is to provide participants with the skills needed to hold a patient care technician position at MyMichigan Health in an ambulatory or outpatient location. Participants will learn how to provide basic clinical patient care and communicate with patients and other members of ALPENA the patient care team. They will also develop the skills necessary to perform vitals, basic screens and lab specimen collections. Upon passing a final exam, participants will receive course certification and be eligible for an ambulatory PCT position at MyMichigan. GED Program Education and Training Connection of Midland (ETC) and MyMichigan Health have created a unique partnership. MyMichigan will hire individuals on a temporary basis and pay for work time and on-site class time, working with employees to achieve the goal of passing the GED and receiving permanent, full-time employment. Positions are available in both the housekeeping and dining and catering departments. Those who are interested in learning more about MyMichigan’s career opportunities may visit www.mymichigan.org/ careers.
home.
Our team is focused on us home keep you at providingLet quality home. health care designed to keep you safely in the comfort of your own home. Let us keep you at home.
(877) 308-1212 (877) 308-1212 www.CCareMi.com www.CCareMi.com ALPENA MID MICHIGAN TRAVERSE WEST BRANCH MID MICHIGAN TRAVERSE CITYCITY WEST BRANCH (877) 308-1212 www.CCareMi.com ALPENA
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Go-To Place For My Career
At MyMichigan Health, our purpose is Creating Healthier Communities – Together. Our team is passionate about providing excellent, high-quality health care to each and every patient and working together to improve the lives of people within our communities. MyMichigan is currently hiring across the health system for a variety of positions, both clinical and non-clinical. Join us and make MyMichigan your Go-To Place for Your Career.
mymichigan.org/careers