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Patricia Salzer Registered dietitian, workplace wellness support coordinator for Excellus Blue Cross BlueShield in Utica talks about her inspiration. Page 13
MAY 2020 • ISSUE 171
COVID-19 Waiting, wondering, hoping Special Edition
Alexander Harris, an ophthalmologist at Slocum-Dickson Medical Group in New Hartford, addresses proper eye health.
Telehealth becomes ‘new normal’
Meet Your Practitioner
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With COVID-19 posing life-threatening consequences, patients are using their telephone or video technology device such as a smartphone, tablet or computer to connect with health care practitioners. For story, see page 17.
Pandemic Proof Fitness columnist Pauline DiGiorgio establishes daily workout routine amidst the COVID-19 chaos. Page 8
Fava Beans a Favorite
Like most legumes, fava beans brim with healthy nutrients. See ‘SmartBites’Page , Page 14 15 See SmartBites, May 2020 •
Liane Chlus
Liane Chlus is a nurse practitioner for the palliative care program at Hospice & PalliaPage 4 tive Care in New Hartford. Page 12
Stressed? Enjoy getting back to nature Page 7
IN GOOD HEALTH – Mohawk Valley’s Healthcare Newspaper
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IN GOOD HEALTH – Mohawk Valley’s Healthcare Newspaper • May 2020
Between You & Me
By Barbara Pierce
Honey, I’m home! Being quarantined with loved ones can challenge the best of relationships
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Could you blink more quietly?” After four weeks of isolation due to the COVID-19 pandemic, a wife says this to her husband in a Facebook meme. “Your breathing is bothering me! You’re breathing way too loud!” someone added. This isn’t far from how many of us feel. We’re going through the ultimate stress test for couples. “It feels like a pressure cooker in this house!” said Bev Buto of Pierce Houston online. “Definitely way too much togetherness! Not going out to escape is taking its toll.” “We’re sick of looking at each other!” added Katy Lyons of Philadelphia. “We’re getting to know one another way too well. I love this man and I know we’ll weather this, but it will change us.” If you live with another person, this quarantine is about finding a way to be around that person every minute of every day in a confined space for an undisclosed amount of time. It’s tough because we don’t like to be thrown out of our routines. And it is tough because we’re scared. Life has changed — dramatically, fearfully and stressfully. Stress spills over into our relationships and makes us lash out at the person(s) we live with. It makes us irritable and easily annoyed by things that wouldn’t have bothered us before. Don’t let this be the tipping point to decide to end your relationship. Here are some things I’ve learned, living with one partner or another for most of my life. With my ex-husband, I lived on a 40-foot sailboat in Mexico. That was hard. But this is harder. In the second month of being stuck at home with only my partner George for company, he annoys me more each day. Hopefully, our quarantine will be over by the time you read this. Even if we’re no longer trapped with each other, we still get on each other’s last nerve. May you find relevant things in this article to help you get through it. It’s normal to be irritable when we’re stressed out and scared. We don’t have the usual outlets that keep us sane — chats with a friend, time away from each other, whatever our usual routine is. Also, we expect too much from
each other. We shouldn’t try to be each other’s everything. I like how Elizabeth Gilbert puts it after she lived in and studied Asian cultures for her book, “Committed: A skeptic makes peace with marriage.” “In Asian cultures, you don’t expect your partner to be your best friend, your most intimate confidant, your emotional adviser, your intellectual equal, your comfort; Asian women get that from each other,” Gilbert writes.
Keep plugged in
Keep up your connections with the outside world. Keep in touch with friends and family through social medial, the phone, or whatever works for you. “Social media is marvelous. It’s like prisoners finding a language of tapping to say, ‘I’m here. Are you OK?’ This is our tapping,” says conflict-resolution consultant Elaine Yarborough online. “As cellmates go, your partner is probably the bestcase scenario.” Time and space apart from each other are essential; build that into each day. If you both work at home, work in different rooms. Though we’re both retired, George and I get along well because each morning he goes out to his workshop and continues to restore a ‘68 Ford Galaxy while I write in the house. On my boat, the cozy space where I could go to be alone to read was essential. Lack of alone time can grate on everyone. Spend some time together, some time apart, depending on your individual needs. Another thing: Try to let the irritating behavior wash over you and ignore it. Look at the big picture — it’s probably not a deal breaker. George has a habit of repeating certain idiotic phrases. He’s been saying them for all the years we’ve been together. And I’ve been able to ignore him. But now I say to myself: “If he says that one more time, I’ll scream!” But he does say it again and I choose not to scream. I just let my irritation flow out of me. I know he’s not doing it to it irritate me; it’s part of who he is and most of him is OK. And that’s another thing — don’t take your partner’s irritating behavior personally. Accept the other’s shortcomings and weird behaviors. That doesn’t mean being blind to it; it just means stop fighting it. When I lived on a boat, I couldn’t tie a bowline knot, which is considered the boater’s No. 1 essential knot. This bothered my
husband a lot. But he accepted that and focused on the things I could do well. Getting angry with the other person and explaining what’s bothering you doesn’t really help. The other person probably won’t change — not for long anyways — and you’ll just make yourself even angrier by venting; angry feelings will diminish on their own. Think about this: It could be worse — you could be alone. As
tough as it is to live with another person during these times, it’s got to be tougher to live alone. I feel for those getting through this without anyone. • Barbara Pierce is a retired licensed clinical social worker with many years of experience helping people. If you would like to purchase a copy of her book, “When You Come to the Edge: Aging” or if you have questions for her, contact her at barbarapierce06@yahoo.com.
UCP executive director sheds praise on COVID-19 warriors
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he following is an open letter from Upstate Cerebral Palsy Executive Director Geno DeCondo: During these unprecedented times, Upstate Cerebral Palsy employees continue to support some of the most vulnerable and medically frail people in our community. We are thankful for the nearly 1,100 essential direct support and health care professionals who continue to keep our children and adults safe each day. Every day, dedicated employees of UCP rise to the challenges brought on by the unpredictability and uncertainty that comes with our current COVID-19 world crisis. Their unwavering commitment is perfectly summarized by this statement from one of our direct care staff: “We have a duty to keep the people we support safe, as if they were our own family members. Days can be challenging, but we continue to adapt to regulations and safety protocol and more than ever are developing unique ways for the people we support to feel comfortable and still have fun within our residences, even though their daily routines have drastically changed,” the staff person said. “Our top priority is to keep everyone healthy and safe.” We are so thankful for the sacrifices that our brave employees,
May 2020 •
and the thousands of other essential workers in our area, make each day to ensure that our community is still thriving. You are our frontline heroes and we are grateful for your dedication and passion to serve the people in our community. Be a part of the miracle — Join Upstate Cerebral Palsy’s essential team. You too, can be a part of our essential team of everyday heroes. UCP has a number of open opportunities with great benefits such as flexible work schedules, a family like atmosphere, competitive salary and benefits package, paid time off, and retirement. We have positions that can work around your schedule, whether they are full or part time, evenings, or weekends, or the traditional Monday through Friday schedule. Our wide range of positions includes direct support professionals, registered and licensed practical nurses, behavioral specialist assistant, behavior analyst, disability services specialist, employment specialist, speech language pathologist, occupational therapist, school psychologist, applied behavior analysis teacher, special education teacher, teacher aide, teacher assistant, as well as support and administrative workers. Apply online at upstatecpjobs. org to join our Team of Heroes!
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‘And the people stayed home’ Keeping your sanity while social distancing By Barbara Pierce
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ife as we know it is being transformed by COVID-19. This is a situation like no other. It’s extraordinary, history making. The situation is fluid. Information changes rapidly, hour by hour. This is being written on March 18; before we go to press, much will change. We’ve been advised that the best way to slow the flood is “social distancing.” This means reducing our rate of contact with one another to lower the chances of being exposed and to slow down the spread of the disease. Our libraries are closed; our schools are closed; sporting events have been cancelled. Our senior centers are closed, as is the Department of Motor Vehicles, the zoo, and more and more businesses. We’re advised to work at home, avoid people, don’t even get together with only a few friends, cancel play dates for our children, and get takeout instead of eating in restaurants. For a while, life is not what it used to be. It’s a stressful time. It is painful, but hopefully for the short run and essential to saving lives. Here is some information we offer to you as you get through this crisis. • Limit your dose of news: This constant onslaught of disturbing news is not good for you. It fuels your anxiety and keeps your stress response on high. You’ll fare better not continually watching the news. Keep up with what’s going on, but only in limited doses. Do not get news alerts on your phone and pass on those “important updates” about COVID-19. • Stay connected: When we’re under stress, the most important thing we need is the support of others. With social distancing, we can’t get what we need in the ways we usually do. But don’t be socially isolated.
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Find a way to connect with others. While you can’t replace the value of in-person interactions, be flexible and think creatively. Reach out to your friends and family in virtual ways and by phone; keep in touch. If you have a smart phone, use the video; seeing someone face-to-face increases your feelings of connection. “Stay connected during this time,” urged NBA star Kevin Love on NBC’s “The Today Show.” “Call people and ask them to tell you their story and then tell them your story,” he said. Can you speak to your neighbors from over a fence or across balconies? The image of people in Italy, leaning out their windows talking and singing the national anthem, is pure
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In Good Health is published 12 times a year by Local News, Inc. © 2020 by Local News, Inc. All rights reserved. Mailing Address: 4 Riverside Drive, Suite 251, Utica, NY 13502 • Phone: 315-749-7070 Email: lou@cnymail.com
Editor & Publisher: Wagner Dotto Associate Editor: Lou Sorendo Contributing Writers: Barbara Pierce, David Podos, Deb Dittner, Jessica Arsenault Rivenburg, Brooke Stacia Demott, Daniel Baldwin, Traci DeLore Advertising: Amy Gagliano Layout & Design: Dylon Clew-Thomas Office Assistant: Nancy Nitz No material may be reproduced in whole or in part from this publication without the express written permission of the publisher. The information in this publication is intended to complement — not to take the place of — the recommendations of your health provider.
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delight. Dara Kapoor, online, gets it: “I’ve been on the phone more in the past week than all of last year.” The Parkway Center in Utica gets it: “We’ve closed,” said Kelly Walters, the center’s executive director. “Social distancing is hard on everyone. However, we’re doing wellness phone calls to our members to check on their well being. We hope a friendly phone call helps until we’re able to re-open.”
Slow that stress
Do what helps slow your stress: — Accept that it’s normal to feel sad, stressed, confused, or scared. Do what you need to slow your stress: deep breathing, exercise, meditation, yoga — whatever helps. — Be knowledgeable, but in a “don’t panic, but prepare” frame of mind. Look at what you can control. Feeling in control reduces stress. — Talk with others about how you feel, especially if you are in quarantine. But be aware that complaining only makes things worse. — Keeping busy is the best way to keep from going stir crazy. This poem by Kitty O’Meara, on Facebook, says it well: “And the people stayed home. And read books, and listened, and exercised, and made art, and played games, and learned new ways of being … “Some meditated, some prayed, some danced. Some met their shadows … “And when the danger passed, the people joined together again, as
they had healed.” — Keep up your exercise routine. Find a routine you like on YouTube. Moving elevates your mood. I like to walk. My neighbors take trips on their bicycles. Another family explores in their recreational vehicles. Takes the edge off the edginess that erupts from time to time. — Get outside; pull weeds in your garden, watch the birds. — Learn something new from YouTube: how to salsa dance, knit, speak French, yoga, opera. Something wild you’d never thought you would do. — If you’re a parent, teach your kids something useful: how to cook, do their laundry, or change the oil in the car. Let them have play dates via Skype. There are lots of ideas online about fun stuff to do. — Play games as a family. — Watch old movies on Turner Classic Movies, or old episodes of funny series like “Two and a Half Men” or “The Big Bang Theory.” Write your life story. Take a virtual tour of museums through Google. Watch your favorite performers, like John Legend or Yo-Yo Ma, through #stars in the house. — Be positive; find pleasure in small things — the flower outside your window, the smell of freshly brewed coffee, or a call from a friend. “When it is dark enough, you can see the stars,” an old Persian proverb, applies now. — Stay calm and carry on. We’ll come through on the other side.
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Healthcare in a Minute By George W. Chapman
COVID-19 deaths compared to other fatal illnesses
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arious computer models have attempted to predict U.S. deaths from the coronavirus pandemic. The earliest estimates were upwards of one million deaths. These early predictions were based on spurious data from China, very little experience with the virus in the U.S., no established federal game plan or preparation, and no change to everyday life. A few months into this, we have more experience, we have a federal game plan and CDC guidelines are in place to mitigate the spread of the virus like distancing, hand washing and isolation. As of mid-April, models are predicting less than 100,000 deaths. In any event, life as we know it will
be altered for months (years?) until a vaccine is discovered. However, it is important to keep things in perspective. Far more of us die every year due to other diseases and illnesses. Here are the major causes of death for 2018: Heart disease, 655,381; cancer, 599,274; Alzheimer’s and dementia, 267,311; emphysema/COPD, 154,603; stroke, 147,810; diabetes, 84,946; drug overdose, 67,367; pneumonia/flu, 59,690; liver disease, 55,918; renal failure, 50,504; car crash, 42,114; septicemia, 40,718; guns, 39,201; falls, 37,558; hypertension, 35,835; Parkinson’s, 35,598; digestive diseases, 31,015; arterial diseases, 24,808. In 2018 the U.S. population was 327 million.
Hospital beds in NYS
Currently, New York state has 214 hospitals with about 35,000 beds. About 3,000 of those beds are equipped for intensive care, which is where patients on ventilators end up. Contrary to what some critics have said, Gov. Cuomo does not determine or control the number of beds in the state. Twenty years ago, in 2000, we had thousands more beds. The reduction of hospital beds over the last two decades is a reflection of what has happened across the U.S. Hospital closures and mergers, shaky bottom lines, wonder drugs, better technology and the proliferation of procedures now performed as outpatient have contributed to the reduction of, or need for, inpatient beds. Hospitals simply can’t afford to keep open enough beds for a pandemic every 20 years or so. Most budget for 90% occupancy. About one third of hospitals operate in the red; one third breakeven; one third make a modest profit. Even large hospital chains, both for profit and nonprofit, struggle financially. The COVID-19 has highlighted the fact that we do not have a unified healthcare system in the U.S. For hospitals, it has always been “every man for himself.” The pandemic has decimated already fragile operating margins. The $2 trillion plus stimulus package contains $100 billion for providers.
Ventilators
A hospital-style vent costs from $25,000 to $50,000. If the typical hospital is somewhere around breakeven, just as it can’t afford to stockpile unused beds, it can’t afford to stockpile ventilators for the every 20 year or so pandemic like COVID-19 let alone a smaller scale epidemic. Again, the U.S. does not have a healthcare system that would be prepared to deal with a pandemic or an epidemic. Most hospitals plan on using up to 90% of their vents on any given day. So, considering the thin operating margins of hospitals, it begs the question: “Who should finance an expensive and rarely used stockpile?” The next shortage facing hospitals will be the medications they need to treat the virus and other respiratory diseases. President Trump may have to use the Defense Production Act to force drug manufacturers to step up. About half of our U.S. population lives in an area where an uptick in the virus would overwhelm the number of ventilators available in local hospitals.
Telemedicine
Most likely, because of the highly infectious virus, your provider has either postponed your upcoming routine office visit or has offered to “see” you via telemedicine. Medicare has relaxed privacy Page 6
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IN GOOD HEALTH – Mohawk Valley’s Healthcare Newspaper • May 2020
and billing requirements for providers, (MDs, NPs, PAs, social workers, therapists, mental health providers) making it far easier for them to offer and bill for virtual visits. Smart phones and personal computers are acceptable for virtual visits. Medicare will waive office copayments, but the 20% coinsurance and deductibles still apply. The virtual visit cannot be related to a prior visit, usually a follow up, that occurred within the prior seven days and does not lead to a personal visit within 24 hours or next available appointment. You must agree to the virtual visit verbally. Commercial insurers typically, but not always, mimic Medicare. If you are uninsured, Medicare will pay your provider normal Medicare rates. Telemedicine has been available for years, but providers and consumers alike have been slow to incorporate it into practice. COVID-19 may be the catalyst for the widespread acceptance and use of the virtual visit, especially as both consumers and providers adapt over the next several months. Medicare is also relaxing physician supervision of nurse practitioners and physician assistants, granting these two advanced practitioners more independence.
Testing
As of this writing, in mid-April, about 2 million of us have been tested for SARS 2/COVID-19. That is a start, but still not even 1% of the U.S. population of 330 million. There are plenty of labs to perform the tests including 4,900 CDC labs and 228,000 public health labs. The overwhelming problem right now is the inability for most of us to get tested. The shortage of testing presents another problem in that physicians cannot verify that a patient died of the virus if they were never tested. Consequently, fatalities due to the virus are probably somewhat understated, as scarce tests are being saved for the screening and diagnosis of the more ill patients. To get back to “normal,” if we ever do, it is imperative that all of us have immediate access to testing. Social distancing is working but until there is universal, or just better, testing epidemiologists believe it won’t be safe to “open up the country” again.
George W. Chapman is a healthcare business consultant who works exclusively with physicians, hospitals and healthcare organizations. He operates GW Chapman Consulting based in Syracuse. Email him at gwc@gwchapmanconsulting.com.
Weeding out stress Feed the soul: In chaotic times, gardening brings peace in midst of COVID-19 By Barbara Pierce
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eing in a garden, surrounded by beautiful plants and doing simple, manual tasks such as weeding and watering can do wonders to calm the mind and lift the spirits during these uncertain times. “Gardening brings peace to my soul,” said Dennis Osborne of Floyd, Oneida County Master Gardener Program volunteer. “I’m out here alone in my garden, in the warm sunlight, listening to the birds, maybe eating a ripe tomato I just picked, and gathering flowers for my wife.” As the arrival of spring in Mohawk Valley coincides with government stay-at-home orders, due to COVID-19, the itch to get outside has turned back yard gardens into a peaceful haven and a stress reliever for many of us. Gardeners who already know that working with soil is a way to connect with nature say it helps take away their worries, at least temporarily. That is needed now more than ever. “Working in my garden gives me a sense of perspective,” Osborne said. “It lets me know that we’ll get through this. COVID-19 will pass; life will go on. The Bible reminds us: ‘While the earth remains, seed time and harvest will not cease.’” “Earthy things give me a good perspective; it keeps me down to earth, keeps me grounded on what’s really important. I know the ground will be there — I can depend on it and it’s not going away. It keeps me rooted,” he added. Osborne and his wife live with extended family; there are nine persons locked down in their household. Their 12 acres of land lends itself to gardening. “We have lots of fruit trees, we grow most of our own vegetables, and we have beautiful flowers,” he said. Mary Anne Lorenz of Whitesboro is also a Master Gardener volunteer. “I’ve gardened all my life because it feeds my body, mind and soul,” she said. “Gardening adds beauty to my life and inspires my creativity,” she said. “When I’m in my garden, the sun warms my back, and earthy smells surround me. It stretches, strengthens and tires me out in a satisfying way. Watching a seedling
emerge from the ground always feels like I’m witnessing a little miracle. “Being outside in my garden clears my head and soothes my soul.” Patricia Salzer, workplace wellness support coordinator for Excellus BlueCross BlueShield in Utica and an integral part of the Mohawk Regional Dietetic Association, agrees. “There’s something about growing and using my own herbs that’s satisfying to the soul and palate and a treat for the senses, she said. “Once planted, they grow quickly — sometimes it seems right in front of my eyes. In the morning, I do some tactile and aromatherapy as I touch and smell the herbs. There’s nothing like harvesting your own herbs and savoring their smell and taste firsthand.”
Taking on stress
Perhaps one of the greatest benefits of gardening is its ability to help reduce stress. “Gardening is a great stress reliever in these days of staying at home,” said Osborne. “Especially weeding. Weeds don’t talk back. I take out my frustration on them; that’s better than taking it out on people.” “Weeding is good stress relief,” agreed Holly Wise, Master Gardener volunteer program leader, Cornell Cooperative Extension, Oneida County. “There are so many benefits to gardening,” she said. “You’re outside; you can hear the birds, see the squirrels scurrying around, see the children playing next door. You’re getting exercise by working the soil, shoveling, moving your arms, getting down on your knees. You can see changes in your garden every day.” Wise grew up gardening and in 4-H, and went to college for horticulture. “Gardening has always been a big part of my life. I love to work in the soil,” she said. The Oneida County Master Gardener Program trains volunteers, educates people through workshops, provides information to home gardeners, answers gardening questions, and assists with gardening projects in the community. Its website is http://cceoneida. com/home-garden. “If you’re interested in learning
Dennis Osborne of Floyd, an Oneida County Master Gardener Program volunteer, attends the 2020 Philadelphia Flower Show in March before the COVID-19 pandemic struck.
Dennis Osborne of Floyd, an Oneida County Master Gardener Program volunteer, attends the 2020 Philadelphia Flower Show in March before the COVID-19 pandemic struck. more about the program, reach out to me and we’ll talk,” Wise said. These days, many more people are starting their own garden, growing vegetables in a garden or in a container. People want to be more self-sufficient. “If it’s a big project, work up to it,” she recommended. “Do a little at a time.” Wise can be reached through email at hlw2@cornell.edu or 315736-3394, extension 125. There’s another big advantage to
gardening for Osborne: “It’s something to do to keep me occupied in a positive sense. I feel useful, as I’m creating healthy food and beautiful flowers for my family and friends. It gives me a purpose. “And it brings me satisfaction. I can say ‘I created this!’ It permits me to create. From dirt and seeds, God brings forth beautiful things, like fruit trees and flowers. A little thing like a pumpkin seed can produce such great results.”
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Pauline’s Pieces
By Pauline DiGiorgio
Conquering quarantine
Daily routine captures spirit of normalcy during trying times
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owadays, it is very easy to fall into the trap of lazing around and getting addicted to the idiot box while we are hunkered down in the face of COVID-19. Trust me, I’ve gotten sucked into “screen time” a little more then I would like to admit. Hence creating a routine, finding projects that use your brain and exDiGiorgio ercise is essential. This is the most crucial time for you to stay on top of your health, wellness and mental state or you will be left with nothing but regret. Here are some ideas that are simple but effective to kick start your day, keep your sanity and stay fit. To break it down, let’s look at different times of the day.
Morning
I find it best to wake up around the same time every day even though it’s easy to sleep in, especially if you are locked down with no where to go. This will help with your sleeping habits and increase your positive mood to optimal levels. Instead of checking your phone and the news, go on YouTube and search “positive morning affirmations.” Take five-to-10 minutes to listen to those and write down a few items you are grateful for in a notebook. I keep my headphones and journal with a pen on my nightstand. Keeping exercise in your routine can start in the morning; that’s right, start. Don’t feel like that will be the only movement and exercise you will get throughout the day. I recommend splitting up exercise sessions so you can have movement throughout your entire day. My morning routine includes a mix of walking outside and yoga in the morning, and some sort of strength training in the afternoon. With lockdown, I have just a 15-pound kettle ball. I follow that up with another short walk as a cool down after dinner if the weather is cooperative. Please, don’t think you must work out every single day. You deserve a rest day or two each week. I also make a small list of activities that I need to do during the day, such as pay a bill, make a call or prep a meal, and stick it on the refrigerator. Doing this will remind you that Page 8
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Pauline DiGiorgio is a fitness ambassador and Group X instructor at Retro Fitness gyms. Questions? Email her at ptlifts@gmail.com. you do indeed have stuff to do and makes you feel productive.
Afternoon
To keep my day similar to the “before quarantine” life, my afternoon routine always includes going out or making a coffee. Since drive-thru coffee spots are still open, thank God, that is an opportunity for me to go for a little drive. I pop on some music or a podcast and treat myself. If coffee isn’t your thing, maybe this is the time when you can make a special drink or snack of your choice and get outside for a midday break. Brainstorm ways to help others as well. This will help lift your spirits during this trying time. My family owns a small local cafe, so on my free time I decided to help with growing their brand awareness on social media, building out their website and social media platforms, and attending to online ordering. My friend is using her time to online tutor neighborhood kids, and some parents are even paying her.
IN GOOD HEALTH – Mohawk Valley’s Healthcare Newspaper • May 2020
Another idea is art. I love seeing the homemade signs in the windows of houses, thanking health care and essential workers.
Evenings
While it seems like many things are out of our control right now, the way we nourish our bodies with food really isn’t. Sure, this is a time that you probably want comfort food, but a well-balanced meal should also be part of the equation. If you’ve been ordering out a lot, give your wallet and dialing fingers a rest by creating some tasty creations in your kitchen. Below is my grocery list. If you don’t feel comfortable going to the grocery store, use the app Instacart. It’s great because you can order groceries from your home and get them delivered to your door. Once you’re stocked, head to the blog at https://lexiscleankitchen.com. It’s a great one that includes something for everyone. Here is a list of items — many of which are non-perishable — you should stock up on.
— Canned beans and lentils — Frozen chicken — Frozen ground turkey — Frozen vegetables, including spinach — Frozen berries — Almond milk — Brown rice or chickpea pasta — Oatmeal — Sweet potatoes, onions, squash, root vegetables — Olive oil, garlic, rice vinegar, coconut aminos — Peanut butter — Bananas, apples — Low-carb crackers — Nuts In the evening is when I allow myself to indulge in a show on Hulu or a movie. I really truly try to limit it to only at night and one-to-two episodes. If I finish those and I’m not ready to sleep, I’ll read some pages of a book, or give a friend a call. I’ve found peace and calmness in collaging. I cut out images from magazines and piece and glue them together on a large poster board. I create images that are all sorts of colors, and photos of what I’m envisioning my future life is going to look like. Some call this activity vision boarding. For example, one board has all cutouts of houses, furniture I like, cities, and decor. Another poster features vacations, travel, travel clothing and activities. You get the idea — I switch on a playlist and get lost in it. Remember: Tough times don’t last; tough people do. Visit me on Instagram at PaulineePocket and say hello.
In Brief RMH reduces points of access
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ome Memorial Hospital has closed its main lobby entrance on James Street to streamline its COVID-19 screening process for anyone entering the building. The emergency department entrance will remain open 24 hours a day. In addition, the Bartlett entrance, which is located off Oak Street, will be open 7 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. weekdays. Access is being limited as part of the hospital’s continuing effort to protect patients, residents, staff and the community. Staff will direct patients to the proper area within the building once they enter and pass through the hospital’s COVID-19 screening process.
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Nurses Week The Balanced Body
By Deb Dittner
Paying homage to nurses Nurses on front lines of health care carry torch of service
D
uring Nurses Appreciation Week May 6-12, we need to take a moment to celebrate
US!!! We need to honor Florence Nightingale (and Florence Nightingale Day May 12), who was an English social reformer and founder of modern nursing. She is well known for her service during the Crimean War where she organized, managed, and trained nurses Dittner in tending to wounded soldiers. Nightingale’s many writings later encouraged worldwide health care reform providing an everlasting impact on improving public health for the poor. Currently, during these unsettled times due to COVID-19, we need to
work weeks. And still, they carry on because that’s what it is to be a nurse.
Taking care of elderly
celebrate nurses by recognizing their devotion, selflessness, and contribution to the profession of nursing and humanity. The nursing programs of today need to continue to educate and em-
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phasize to nurses and future nurses about the priority issues facing the profession and care of patients, and how nurses are leading and building healthier communities. We need to inspire professional nurses to explore creative ways to build on the knowledge and overall skills, and collaborate with other health care providers and communities with the goal of improving the health care of the populations. Times have changed in the nursing profession. There is the personal, political, social, and scientific domain within the profession that has changed the internal fire and heart of the nurse. Of course, health care improvements occur daily, but what has happened to the interconnections and wholeness of the nurse? Health care requirements often put the nurse in front of a computer screen and not directly at the bedside where it all first began. And yet, they continue to manage. Many nurses are struggling right now as they work double shifts, amounting to 80-plus hour
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IN GOOD HEALTH – Mohawk Valley’s Healthcare Newspaper • May 2020
Nurses are caring for the elderly in facilities where no visitors are allowed, providing not only nursing care but the only socialization that the elderly receive. They are caring for the sick on the front lines in emergency rooms, possibly leading toward the need of a respirator. They are caring for the moms birthing their newborns alone as no family is allowed in the birthing room. Then, the nurses go home to their families, exhausted, where they take every precaution so as not to infect their own family. But who is providing care for the nurses? Through all of the uncertainties today, the nurse needs to find a time and place for his or her own self-care in order to make it through another hour, another day and another week. Please make sure the nurses in your life receive wholesome meals, time allowed for physical movement, a proper and well-deserved eight hours of sleep, ways in which to boost their immune systems through supplementation of Vitamin D and C and more, breathing techniques, and fresh air. Last year, I went back to teaching our future nurses as it is so important for them to understand caring science and the importance of self-care. It’s been a challenging year, but I never thought we would be fighting on the front lines for our patients and ourselves. • Deborah Dittner is a family nurse practitioner and health consultant. Her mission is to transform as many individuals as possible through nutrition and lifestyle changes. For more information, check out her website at www.debdittner. com or contact her at 518-596-8565.
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Gaining Immunity Importance of strong immune system essential now more than ever By Brooke Stacia Demott
The generally recommended eight-to-10 glasses of water per day is our aim; try filling a clean gallon-sized milk jug each morning to monitor your intake.
A
strong immune system is both the militia and heavy artillery that comes to your body’s defense against disease and pathology. The devastating COVID-19 pandemic is a sober reminder that we must do everything we can to prepare for battle. Your immune system is a complicated mechanism. Essentially, it’s a host-defense system made up of many biological structures and processes to protect you from disease. While it’s difficult to fully understand our immune system, what we do know is that our bodies are complexly designed, and all systems interact with one another, so the overall strength of the host is critical to the strength of the host’s systems. In other words, immune responses are only as strong as the body that houses them. When considering natural ways to boost one’s ability to fight off infection, there aren’t any quick fixes. A holistic approach — addressing all sectors of physical health — is the most effective, and to do so may require major lifestyle changes. Let’s take a look at some of the more commonly accepted ways to increase immune response, and learn if and why they can contribute to a stronger system and better quality of life.
Sleep
Drink water
It may seem arbitrarily simplistic, but drinking water is one of the most effective ways to strengthen not only your immune system, but every system. Water oxygenates your blood, and assists cells in removing toxins quickly. Water is critical to the body’s production of lymph, the clear fluid that bathes our tissues in lymphocytes and macrophages, the primary cells of the immune system, according to britannica.com. In other words, lymph is the backbone of the immune response. Gut health is heavily tied to immunity, and while we hear a lot about the benefits of probiotics, proper digestive function also relies heavily on water intake. Not only is
water critical to waste elimination, but also to carry disease-fighting nutrients and antioxidants to the rest of our cells. Water is also the go-to treatment for chronic arthritis, an inflammatory condition severely aggravated by dehydration. If you suffer from depression or insomnia, it’s possible that your brain isn’t getting enough water to produce sufficient amounts of serotonin and melatonin, according to fitday.com. Cancer patients must drink adequate amounts of water daily to assist with immune response, particularly those suffering from blood cancers. Sufficient water intake is critical in new blood cell formation, according to Comprehensive Cancer Centers.
May 2020 •
Our bodies repair damaged cells and propagate the distribution of T cells throughout our lymphatic system, critical to immune response. A study on slow-wave — or “deep” sleep — demonstrated that when an antigen is present, slow-wave sleep assisted in the production of pro-inflammatory hormonal responses and reduced anti-inflammatory cortisol responses, sealing an immunological memory of the antigen, according to the National Center for Biotechnology Information. Translation? Sleep helps your body fight off infection, and remember that defense technique to fight it off more effectively in the future. Healthy sleep cannot take place in fitful hours spent nodding in front of a screen. We need eight hours of dark, quiet, uninterrupted sleep to maximize our immunoreceptors’ ability to fight infection.
Moderate exercise
Regular exercise goes a long way toward strengthening your body’s immune response. Continued on 18
IN GOOD HEALTH – Mohawk Valley’s Healthcare Newspaper
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Page 11
Meet
Your Practitioner
By Barbara Pierce
Liane Chlus
Liane Chlus is a nurse practitioner for the palliative care program at Hospice & Palliative Care in New Hartford. The mission of Hospice & Palliative Care is to provide quality, compassionate care to those with end-of-life illnesses in the Mohawk Valley. Q.: Hospice & Palliative Care provides both hospice and palliative care. What is the difference between these programs? A.: Patients in the hospice care program have a prognosis of six months or less to live. Patients in our advanced illness management palliative care program are dealing with a serious or chronic illness; they are not terminally ill. We provide support to help them have a better quality of life with a serious or chronic illness. We help them manage symptoms of their illness and treatments, maintain the most comfortable and independent life possible, and coordinate care and treatment with their doctors. Q.: With the COVID-19 crisis, what is the situation at Hospice & Palliative Care like right now? A.: Hospice & Palliative Care is designed to provide patients and families quality, compassionate care at the most difficult time of life. COVID-19 has added an extra level of stress to our patients, families and staff. Our patients are already compromised because they are dealing with chronic health issues that impact their quality of life. Our patients and their families are concerned about exposure to the virus. We have implemented protective measures to limit the risk as we go into the homes of our patients, using personal protective equipment. If a patient desires, we have the ability to do telehealth visits remotely so that they continue to receive services in the safety of their home and limit their exposure. We have not treated any COVID-19 positive patients at home as of yet. For me personally, this has provided an extra level of safety precautions to the standard ones I have always practiced. I do not want to risk the health and safety of my patients, their families or my own family. Q.: How would you describe what you’ve been going through recently? A.: The “new normal” has been very difficult to navigate. I am a social person who has enjoyed the home visits and company of all my patients. COVID-19 precautions have made the visits a little less personal, though everyone understands. We continue to call on our patients weekly to provide support through this difficult time as we recognize feelings of isolation and depression are a potential result of the virus. Q.: What is your specific job now? How has it changed because of Page 12
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the virus? A.: As a palliative care family nurse practitioner, my job is to interact with all patients and manage their disease in collaboration with their primary care physician and treatment plans. Traditionally, I have done home visits to each of them. Since this crisis has evolved, many of my visits are done via telehealth. As I work with patients who are chronically ill and have very compromised immune systems, for their safety and mine, I see these patients in person only when it is medically necessary. Q.: How did you choose a career in nursing? A.: My grandmother was my inspiration; she was a registered nurse. I wanted to be just like her, always — her compassion, empathy, sympathy, tenderness, kindness, humaneness, constant guidance and endless wisdom. When I got out of high school, I was not ready for the challenge of college. After I had my second son and had an angel for a nurse, I told myself that I was going to go to nursing school, no matter what. When my son was 6 weeks old, I started my journey into nursing school. Now, 21 years later, I have fulfilled my dream, plus some, with being a nurse practitioner.
of college for my associate degree. I worked full time and advanced my career with part-time studies, so it took me a little longer to get my FNP degree. But the experience I have had as a nurse has given me great experience to carry over into my current position. I have had experience in the operating room, intensive care unit, long-term care and quality. Q.: What is a typical day like? A.: Currently, my days are just sitting in front of my computer. I attend to charting reviews, documenting, visits, meetings and spend a lot of time on the phone with patients. On a normal day without the COVID-19 restrictions, I would do chart preparation for my daily pa-
Q.: What training did it take? A.: I started out with two years
IN GOOD HEALTH – Mohawk Valley’s Healthcare Newspaper • May 2020
tients, drive to their houses for their visits, come home and complete my documentation for the day. We cover Oneida, Herkimer and eastern Madison counties, so I would normally do a lot of driving. Q.: What is most rewarding about it? A.: Forming relationships with patients, families and caregivers. Working as part of a team. Having pride in what I am doing. Continual learning — no two days are ever the same. Making a difference in the lives of others. Collaborating with other health care providers to facilitate the best outcomes for our patients, families and caregivers.
Lifelines Birth year: 1968 Birthplace: New York Current residence: Newport Education: Associate of Science degree in nursing, St. Elizabeth College of Nursing; Bachelor of Arts degree in nursing, SUNY Institute of Technology; Master of Science degree, family nurse practitioner, SUNY Polytechnic Institute; post-master’s certificate, palliative care, California State University. Hobbies: Traveling, listening to music, fishing, hiking, cooking, family time, gardening
Health Careers Patricia Salzer Registered Dietitian
Workplace wellness support coordinator for Excellus BlueCross BlueShield in Utica devotes her career to inspiring people By Barbara Pierce
R
egistered dietitian Patricia Salzer recently spoke with Mohawk Valley In Good Health newspaper senior correspondent Barbara Pierce about her career. In addition to being a workplace wellness support coordinator for Excellus BlueCross BlueShield in Utica, she is an integral part of the Mohawk Regional Dietetic Association. Q.: You are involved in two significant positions. How do you combine them? A.: Yes, I do wear a couple of different hats. My job is at Excellus and I am a volunteer for the Mohawk Regional Dietetic Association. Q.: How did you become interested in becoming a registered dietitian? A.: In high school, I often cooked for my family and really enjoyed it. I also became very interested in the nutritional part. I believed taste and nutrition go hand in hand. I knew then that I wanted to become a registered dietitian. Food is the spice of life. I wanted to share my passion for food with others. Q.: What education did you have to become a RD? A.: I earned a four-year degree in nutrition and dietetics at SUNY Oneonta. I then completed a yearlong internship in Cleveland at Cleveland Metro General-Highland View Hospital working on the clinical and administrative sides as well as with the community. Following that, I passed a test to become a registered dietitian. I take continuing education courses to maintain my registration. Q.: You’re not working in the clinical world, but rather for a health plan. How did you make this transition? A.: My career started in the clinical world at St. Luke’s Hospital in Utica. That experience was vital and gave me the opportunity to work with pediatrics, cancer patients, dialysis, intensive care unit and coronary care unit patients and so much more. I found that my passion, though, was for wellness. I wanted to take a step back and see what I could do to prevent some of those conditions from happening. That’s how I made the transition to working for a health plan. Q.: What exactly does a wellness support coordinator for Excellus do? A.: We work with our members at their places of employment. We help members learn how they can use us and what resources are available to them. We encourage
them to see us not just as help for when they are sick, but use us to stay well. We advise them to have preventive screenings like a colonoscopy, a mammogram, get a flu shot, stop smoking and use telemedicine when appropriate. We work with companies to create a culture of well-being at work. Employees are the greatest asset of any company. We’re stewards of their health care dollars. Healthier, happier employees are such a benefit to the employers; they have less turnover and less sick time off. I love my career — it’s so rewarding and fulfilling. Q.: We’re impressed that you live what you teach others. A.: Yes, I practice what I preach. I want to be the best me that I can be. I think it’s important to manage stress, sleep well, volunteer, be connected to others, and have a purpose in life. I’m a food and fitness enthusiast. Food is important; food is satisfying; food is essential for life. We should eat a healthy diet most of the time, but there is room for treats. My approach to healthy eating focuses on eating more, not less. I like to tell people about all the things that they can eat, instead of telling them what they can’t eat. There are so many things that taste good and are good for you. I’m not the food police; I’m a food advocate. I enjoy working out and social activities, so I combine the two. I recommend combining fitness and people to everyone. Work out with a friend and cycle with a friend. If you’re going out for dinner, walk to the restaurant together. Q.: You volunteer for the Mohawk Regional Dietetic Association. Tell us about that. A.: MRDA is a nonprofit organization of professionals in nutrition, dietetics, and food service. It’s a network for members to share and to continue their education so they can maintain their RD status. We belong to the New York State Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics. I’m the public relations chair and have been president for several terms.
Patricia Salzer whole spectrum from before birth to the end of life. I like working with people, inspiring and motivating them, and meeting people where they are. I started out working as a clinician, and later transitioned to working for a health plan. There are so many opportunities for dietitians in
a number of areas. Sports teams use dietitians, as do schools, prisons, hospitals, clinics, private practice, and more. I love this career. It is so rewarding. I can see people get healthier and become the best they can be. You can’t beat that!
Q.: Congratulations are in order. We understand you recently won an important award. A.: I won the 2020 Media Excellence Award from NYSAND. I also was recognized as the Young Dietitian of the Year in the past. Q.: What’s most rewarding about your career? A.: Nutrition is such a wonderful field. We can help everybody. Nutrition is important for infants, children, teens, adults, and the elderly — the May 2020 •
IN GOOD HEALTH – Mohawk Valley’s Healthcare Newspaper
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Page 13
SmartBites
The skinny on healthy eating
Immune-boosting fava beans promote good health
L
onger days, singing birds, the fresh scent of cut grass: spring is here and nothing heralds the season quite like rhubarb, asparagus, peas and pale green fava beans. While fava beans look a bit like lima beans, they’re less starchy and fuller in flavor: nutty and slightly sweet. First-of-the-season favas, coveted for their buttery, melt-inyour-mouth quality, are worth the preparation time. Like most legumes, fava beans brim with healthy nutrients. Low in fat, cholesterol and sodium, they stand out for their folate, fiber, protein, manganese and immune-boosting antioxidants. Why do we need folate? An es-
sential B vitamin, folate is needed to make red and white blood cells, convert carbs into energy and produce DNA and RNA. Adequate intake of this vital nutrient is extremely important during periods of rapid growth such as pregnancy, infancy and adolescence. A good intake is equally important beyond adolescence as folate helps to maintain a healthy heart, plays an important role in brain function and mental health and may even have protective benefits against certain cancers. One cup of cooked fava beans dishes up 44% of average folate needs. A good source of dietary fiber, fava beans may help lower cholester-
Helpful tips
By Anne Palumbo ol in both healthy adults and those with elevated levels. The soluble fiber, in particular, promotes healthy bowel movements by softening your stool and can also bind to and remove cholesterol from your body. In addition, several studies have shown that a diet rich in fiber may improve feelings of fullness, which can then result in lower calorie intake and weight loss. One cup of cooked fava beans has 9 grams of fiber. Fava beans are rich in two nutrients that may prevent bone loss: manganese and copper. Although their exact role in bone health is unclear, some studies suggest that these two essential minerals are crucial to bone strength. Research has also suggested that manganese may help postmenopausal women maintain normal bone density, which may then lower the risk for osteoporosis. Looking to boost your immune system? Fava beans are loaded with compounds that may enhance antioxidant activity. Antioxidants are vital to your body’s immune defense, as they fight free radicals that may lead to cell damage and disease. Bone-strengthening manganese also plays a key role in forming a specific antioxidant enzyme that is one of the body’s most powerful antioxidants.
Fava beans and asparagus with toasted almonds Adapted from Martha Stewart Serves 8
1½ pounds fresh fava beans, shelled 1 pound asparagus, tough ends removed and cut into 2-inch pieces 4 tablespoons olive oil, divided 2 cloves garlic, minced 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice; 1 teaspoon lemon zest salt and pepper, to taste ½ cup slivered almonds, roasted
When buying favas, choose plump pods with a grassy-green color and few brown spots. Select small to medium pods, which are more tender and sweeter than the larger, starchier beans. Avoid burst pods: this means they’re old. Unshelled fava beans, stored in a plastic bag, last about 10 days in the fridge; cooked favas last about 5 days. Favas also come canned, dried, and frozen. Blanch fava beans in a pot of salted boiling water just until tender, about 1 minute. Transfer to an ice bath; drain after 5 minutes. Pat dry and remove loose outer skin. Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add asparagus and cook, stirring frequently, until asparagus is crisp-tender, about 3 minutes. Remove from heat; transfer to a large bowl; set aside. In same skillet, heat 1 tablespoon olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and fava beans and cook, stirring frequently, until garlic is softened, about 2 minutes. Remove from heat and add to asparagus. Whisk together lemon juice and remaining 2 tablespoons olive oil, adding salt and pepper to taste. (Add more oil if dressing is too tart.) Add to bowl mixture and gently toss to coat. Combine almonds and lemon zest in small bowl. Transfer asparagus-fava bean mixture to a platter. Sprinkle with almond-zest mixture.
Anne Palumbo is a lifestyle colum-
nist, food guru, and seasoned cook, who has perfected the art of preparing nutritious, calorie-conscious dishes. She is hungry for your questions and comments about SmartBites, so be in touch with Anne at avpalumbo@aol.com.
s d i K Corner
Study: Social media hasn’t hurt kids’ social skills
T
oday’s youngsters are as socially skilled as previous generations, despite concerns about their heavy use of technology, like smartphones and social media, new research shows. The researchers compared teacher and parent evaluations of more than 19,000 U.S. children who started kindergarten in 1998 — six years before Facebook appeared — with more than 13,000 who began school in 2010. That’s when the first iPad came on the market. “In virtually every comparison we made, either social skills stayed the same or actually went up modPage 14
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estly for the children born later,” said study lead author Douglas Downey, a professor of sociology at Ohio State University. “There’s very little evidence that screen exposure was problematic for the growth of social skills,” he added in a school news release. Both groups of youngsters had similar ratings on interpersonal skills — such as the ability to form and maintain friendships and get along with people who are different — and on self-control, such as the ability to control their temper. The only exception to the overall findings was that social skills
were slightly lower for children who accessed online gaming and social networking sites many times a day. “But even that was a pretty small effect,” Downey said. “Overall, we found very little evidence that the time spent on screens was hurting social skills for most children,” he added. While he was initially surprised to discover that time spent on screens didn’t affect children’s social skills, Downey said he shouldn’t have been. “There is a tendency for every generation at my age to start to have
IN GOOD HEALTH – Mohawk Valley’s Healthcare Newspaper • May 2020
concerns about the younger generation. It is an old story,” he noted. “The introduction of telephones, automobiles, radio all led to moral panic among adults of the time because the technology allowed children to enjoy more autonomy,” he explained. “Fears over screen-based technology likely represent the most recent panic in response to technological change.” The study was recently published online in the American Journal of Sociology.
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Household Size
Under60/Nondisabled Household
Under 60/Nondisabled Household with Earned Income
Household with Disabled Person, or Senior (60+), or Working Household Paying for Child or Adult Care
1 2 3 4 5
$1,354 $1,832 $2,311 $2,790 $3,269
$1,562 $2,114 $2,667 $3,219 $3,772
$2,082 $2,818 $3,555 $4,292 $5.028
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We did it.
Twice.
Oneida Health is ranked among America’s Top 2% of Hospitals for Patient Safety & Experience
Visit oneidahealth.org/awards to learn more
May 2020 •
IN GOOD HEALTH – Mohawk Valley’s Healthcare Newspaper
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Page 15
Spiritual Health Milk & Honey
By Brooke Stacia DeMott
Does God play role in virus control? It takes more than humans to stop pandemic
“
I lift my eyes up to the hills; where does my help come from? My help comes from the Lord, maker of heaven and earth.” (Psalm 121:1) “Our behavior has stopped the spread of the virus. God did not stop the spread of the virus. And what we do, how we act, will dictate how that virus spreads,” New York State DeMott Governor Andrew Cuomo declared for the second time in as many days in a CNN interview recently. Every believable lie is encapsulated in a little truth. When Cuomo asserted that human behavior has slowed down the spread of COVID-19, he made an inarguable observation; washing your hands and staying at home keeps disease from spreading. And just like the billions of
dollars of pork spending for the arts, the Internal Revenue Service, and the Kennedy Space Center that were shoved into the emergency COVID stimulus package, Cuomo has wedged a whole lot of foolishness into an otherwise acceptable statement. How are we to answer this?
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Should we chastise and disrespect the governor? Should we run him out of office? Should we make excuses for his speech on the basis of the merits of his executive response? In 589 B.C., King Nebuchadnezzar raided the city of Jerusalem, killing the king, destroying Solomon’s temple, and kidnapping strong youths of noble birth to serve in the Babylonian court. The boys were offered the choicest royal wine and food during their training, but a young boy named Daniel begged the chief officer permission to refuse, desiring to keep himself undefiled by what the Jews considered to be ceremoniously unclean foods. He struck a bargain — if the Lord sustained he and his friends for 10 days on just vegetables and water, they would be permitted to eat only what their consciences allowed. God strengthened the boys beyond their gourmand contemporaries, allowing them indefinite freedom to abstain — but don’t miss an important detail. Daniel did not impudently refuse to eat the king’s food; he made a respectful appeal. Daniel’s humble conduct, and God’s sustaining hand, won his freedom. Daniel eventually found enormous favor with the king through his dutiful service and ability to interpret dreams, and the king relied heavily upon Daniel as a ruler of the province of Babylon. One evening, Daniel was summoned to the king’s courts to decipher the king’s most unnerving dream yet — a warning to Nebuchadnezzar that his arrogant, self-congratulatory attitude concerning the successes of Babylon would bring swift judgment from the Lord if he did not repent.
About face
Daniel didn’t relish delivering this warning of judgment to the king; rather, he mourned over it and wished it were a judgment against his enemies instead! Daniel was well aware of the king’s arrogance and idolatry; but he desired the king’s
IN GOOD HEALTH – Mohawk Valley’s Healthcare Newspaper • May 2020
repentance to the Lord above all things, entreating him to “renounce your sins by doing what is right, and your wickedness by being kind to the oppressed. It may be that then your prosperity will continue.” (Daniel 4:27) In the end, Nebuchadnezzar maintained his position that he alone was the author and perfecter of the glorious city of Babylon, declaring, “Is not this the great Babylon I have built as the royal residence, by my mighty power and for the glory of my majesty?“ No sooner had the words escaped his lips than the forewarned judgment fell swiftly upon him. However, to the shock of many and the delight of Daniel, King Nebuchadnezzar recognized his error and turned in rapid and complete repentance to God, crediting him for his mighty hand and gracious restoration, marveling that he is “able to humble the proud.” Nebuchadnezzar lived his remaining days in the fear of the Lord, enjoying even greater prominence and honor than before. Cuomo congratulates himself on his policies, believing them to be the catalyst of the salvation of New York. However, he fails to recognize that ultimately, we are under the sovereign hand of the Lord who is able to lengthen a pandemic for years, or eradicate it in a matter of days. Likewise, we must not fail to recognize that the Lord places whom he wills into the seats of the executive branch, and he has his own purposes for bringing men to power. Who knows, but that there may be a Daniel in Cuomo’s board of advisers, serving with integrity and praying with fervor for the governor’s repentance? Who knows, but that the Lord may allow some season of significant hardship in the lives of such public officials, as a mercy to their souls, that they might turn and glorify him once more? I’ve lifted my eyes to our state and federal governments and my help has not come from there. I’ve found little more than a faulty IRS stimulus website, four weeks of ignored unemployment claims, and no end in sight — but the Lord has graciously sustained us in surprising ways, and so we find ourselves (now, as always) well cared for by our heavenly father. • Brooke Stacia DeMott is a columnist with In Good Health newspaper. Got a question for Demott? Feel free to email her at brooketo@aol.com. The beliefs and opinions expressed in this column are those of the writer and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of this newspaper or any other agency, organization, employer or company.
WE CAN KEEP OUR COMMUNITY AS SAFE AS POSSIBLE.
By Jim Miller
Telehealth services help keep seniors safe at home Dear Savvy Senior, Does Medicare cover telehealth services? My 71-year-old mother has chronic Type 2 diabetes but is very concerned about going to the doctor for fear of exposing herself to coronavirus. What can you tell us? Avoiding the Doctor
Dear Avoiding, Yes! Due to the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, Medicare recently announced that it will be expanding coverage for telehealth services to help keep vulnerable seniors safe at home. Here’s what you and your mom should know.
Telehealth services
If you’re not familiar with telehealth or telemedicine services, they are full visits with a health care provider (who isn’t at your location) using telephone or video technology device — i.e. smartphone, tablet or computer. Telehealth services allow Medicare beneficiaries to take care of ongoing medical problems as well as new concerns, while following public health advice to stay home during the coronavirus outbreak. Medicare patients with chronic health conditions now don’t have to postpone a regular follow-up visit with the doctor to keep safe. They can do it via Skype or FaceTime. And people concerned they may have the virus could see their doctor or nurse practitioner virtually to find out how to get tested. Nursing home residents will also be able to have telehealth consultations with their doctors. If your mom isn’t familiar or comfortable with technology, you or another relative or friend can assist her. You may need to go over to her house to help her do this. Bring your smartphone, tablet or laptop but remember, don’t visit if you’re feeling sick. Risk of serious illness from the coronavirus is much greater for older people and those with underlying health problems such as lung conditions, diabetes or heart problems. Many seniors are also managing
COVID
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chronic health issues that put them at heightened risk. Until recently, telehealth coverage under original Medicare has been limited to beneficiaries only in rural areas, and patients often need to go to specially designated sites for their visits. The expanded telehealth coverage, which will remain in effect during the coronavirus outbreak, now allows doctors and hospitals to bill Medicare for visits via telemedicine that previously had to take place in person, at a medical office or facility. If your mom happens to get her Medicare benefits through a private Medicare Advantage plan, they will also be expanding their telehealth services. For coverage details, contact her plan directly.
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LEARN HOW BY VISITING
UPSTATE.EDU/COVID
Other Medicare coverage
In addition to the expanded telehealth services, Medicare will also be covering all coronavirus testing costs to see if your mom has been infected, and medically necessary hospitalizations, so if her doctor recommends that she remain in quarantine at the hospital rather than self-isolating at home, she will not have to pay for these costs. And if your mom has a Medicare Part D prescription drug plan, it will cover the coronavirus vaccine when it becomes available and will waive prescription refill limits so she can have extra medication on hand. For more information, see Medicare.gov/medicare-coronavirus. Send your senior questions to: Savvy Senior, P.O. Box 5443, Norman, OK 73070, or visit SavvySenior. org. Jim Miller is a contributor to the NBC Today show and author of “The Savvy Senior” book.
LET’S WORK TOGETHER. MVHS updates outpatient service models to provide efficient, safe care
T
he Mohawk Valley Health System has updated its outpatient service model in order to keep patients in the region as safe and comfortable as possible during the COVID-19 pandemic while receiving care in its system. In accordance with New York state on PAUSE, MVHS has implemented social distancing measures in all locations. In addition, MVHS is performing temperature checks, asking screening questions and requiring masks to be worn in all of its facilities. In an effort to provide multiple options for care, MVHS also began offering telehealth services at its primary and specialty office locations
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as well as in its urgent care center. MVHS asks patients who are in need of care to first call their MVHS primary care provider to decide if an on-site, phone or virtual visit is most appropriate. If a patient does not have an MVHS provider, they are asked to contact MVHS’ urgent care center at 315-624-5226. Patients will then be scheduled for a telehealth appointment with an urgent care provider or be directed to go to the emergency department. “Our goal is to make sure our patients get the care they need while at the same time keeping them safe and comfortable,” said Michael Attilio, vice president of the MVHS Medical
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Vision Health The Eyes Have It Proper eye health is essential for high quality of life tests and eye examinations as well as identify and treat many eye abnormalities.
By David L. Podos
A
n old English proverb says, “The eyes are the windows to the soul.” But, there’s even a much older proverb quoted by Cicero (106-43 B.C.) that says, “The face is a picture of the mind as the eyes are its interpreter.” Indeed, we interpret so much of our world through the sense of sight. Most of us are hardly aware of just how incredible our eyes are until something goes wrong. This writer knows all too well how fragile eyes Harris are and the importance to properly care for them. Eye disease runs in my family and 15 years ago, I was diagnosed with glaucoma, one of the more debilitating eye diseases that can cause blindness without proper medical care. Taking care of our eyes is crucial. Here are a few practical tips from WebMD that increases our overall eye health. • Eat well Good eye health starts with the food on your plate, like those rich in omega fatty acids and zinc. Also, vitamins C and E that might help ward off age-related vision problems like macular degeneration and cataracts. To get these nutrients, fill your plate with: — Green leafy vegetables like spinach, kale, and collards; salmon,
Eye exams essential
tuna, and other oily fish — Eggs, nuts, beans, and other nonmeat protein sources — Oranges and other citrus fruits or juices — Oysters and pork • Quit smoking Smoking makes it more likely to develop cataracts, damage your optic nerve, and cause macular degeneration, among many other medical problems. • Wear sunglasses Wearing sunglasses reduces harmful ultra-violet rays that can increase incidences of macular degeneration and cataracts.
Who do you see for eye care?
Who does one see for eye care? Both ophthalmologists and optometrists are trained in eye care, but
there are differences. An ophthalmologist can be either a medical doctor or a doctor of osteopathic medicine. Ophthalmologist have the highest level of education, giving them the ability to not just diagnose eye disease, but to surgically treat it. A general ophthalmologist will complete a four-year undergraduate degree followed by four additional years of medical school, either to become a doctor of medicine or a doctor of osteopathic medicine. A three-year residency follows medical school, and that is when students study eye disease and surgical methods to treat diseases. A doctor of optometry will complete a four-year undergraduate degree followed by four additional years of optometry school. An optometrist can perform all basic vision
Alexander Harris is an ophthalmologist at Slocum-Dickson Medical Group in New Hartford. “Routine eye exams are very important to monitor for the development of potential vision-threatening conditions,” said Harris, noting that routine eye exams will evaluate for common conditions such as cataracts, glaucoma, macular degeneration, dry eye, and presbyopia, a part of aging where the eyes’ ability to focus on nearby objects diminishes gradually. “While I diagnosis and treat many different eye diseases, some of the more common eyes diseases that I see and treat are cataracts and glaucoma,” he said. Cataracts are a condition when the natural lens in the eye opacifies, or becomes opaque, leading to symptoms of glare from lights and decreased vision. Glaucoma is an eye condition where peripheral vision is slowly lost. Patients with early glaucoma will have no symptoms to prompt a visit to the eye doctor. That is why it is so important to have routine eye exams. Ophthalmology is the only specialty where the physician directly visualizes the blood vessels, and they are on occasion the ones who diagnosis systemic diseases effecting these vessels, such as diabetes, hypertension, and stroke. The American Academy of Ophthalmology provides patient information for common eye conditions at aao.org/eye-health.
Strengthening immune system a priority Continued from Page 9 Improved circulation allows for micronutrient cell transit to be optimized, and increasing your metabolism will assist your body in eliminating toxins more effectively. Professor David Nieman of Appalachian State University said when moderate exercise is repeated on a near-daily basis, there is a cumulative effect that leads to long-term immune response. His research shows people who walk 40 minutes per day at 70-75 percent of their maximal oxygen consumption experience half as many sick days because of sore throats or colds as people who don’t exercise, according to the International Journal of Physical Education, Sports, and Health. But be careful. Increasing bodies of research demonstrate that excessive exercise is actually harmful to your immune response. Ninety minutes of high-intensity exercise makes athletes susceptible Page 18
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to illness for 72 hours following a session. Why is that? Cortisol and adrenaline, the “stress hormones,” are spiked by high-intensity exercise, in turn raising blood pressure, cholesterol levels and suppressing the immune response. So regular, moderate-intensity strength training and cardiovascular exercise for 40-to-60 minutes per day will go a long way toward strengthening your body’s ability to fight off disease.
Limiting sugar
Refined sugar has a toxic effect on our bodies. One study out of Loma Linda University demonstrated that for several hours after subjects ingested six tablespoons of sugar, many of their white blood cells — called neutrophils — were rendered effectively comatose within 30 minutes of consumption. To put that into perspective, that’s even less sugar than the amount that one large Coke has at McDonalds. When bacteria and viruses were
introduced to Petri dishes of this sugar-saturated blood, they were incapable of fighting the antigens off, according to the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition. If you are consuming sugar regularly throughout the course of your day, it’s very possible that you are consistently suppressing your immune system to the point of relative ineffectiveness. Not only will you be more susceptible to viruses and bacteria from without, but also from pathology like cancer and heart disease from within. Somewhat unnervingly, after several groundbreaking discoveries about the significant harm that even moderate sugar intake can render on a body, such studies have not been replicated since the mid-1970s. However, Yale researchers have found some interesting links between fasting and feeding various kinds of diseases. It seems that fasting during a bacterial infection fights it off quickly and effectively, while feeding a viral infection is the best way to kick it.
IN GOOD HEALTH – Mohawk Valley’s Healthcare Newspaper • May 2020
Vitamins
Micronutrients are critical to the body’s immune response, and certain vitamins are favored over others. Vitamin C is an antioxidant that neutralizes free radicals and directs the neutrophils (warrior white bloods cells) to the site of infection to engage in the battle. In addition, Vitamin C activates key enzymes to synthesize hormones and build collagen. It is increasingly used in copious amounts intravenously, in tandem with traditional chemotherapy treatments to mitigate the negative side effects. Vitamin C is critical to immune health, according to livescience.com. Vitamin D plays a critical role in antimicrobial response, and an overwhelming number of clinical studies have corroborated Vitamin D deficiency with autoimmune conditions. One recent double blind placebo study showed Vitamin D administration resulted in a 42% decrease in the incidence of influenza infection, according to NCBI.
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MVHS Celebrates
Name___________________________________________
Nurses Week 2020
Address_________________________________________
In honor of Florence Nightingale’s birthday, each May we hold a week-long celebration to applaud and recognize our nurses. This celebration is always much deserved, but this year it means so much more. Healthcare workers are in the forefront of everyone’s thoughts and prayers as they are on the front lines every day treating patients during the COVID-19 pandemic. I am so grateful for the hard work and caring of our amazing nursing staff.
City / Town__________________State_____ Zip_________
I want to thank you for coming to work each day, ready to face whatever challenges may lie ahead. I thank you for putting our patients and residents first as they and their families rely greatly on the care you deliver. And thank you for working with us through this trying time and maintaining the excellent level of care at MVHS.
$21 payment enclosed
I am incredibly grateful for your service.
Clip and Mail to:
Darlene Stromstad, FACHE MVHS President/CEO
In Good Health
4 Riverside Drive, Suite 251, Utica, NY 13502 ®
MVHEALTHSYSTEM.ORG
WHEN IT MATTERS MOST, WE’RE ALL AT OUR BEST. It’s the most unique and inspiring aspect of humanity. Facing the darkest times, toughest odds and most daunting challenges is when we find our greatest strength. And when we’re furthest apart, we find new ways to remind each other that we’re not alone. At Excellus BlueCross BlueShield, we’ve been protecting communities across Upstate New York for generations. And today, we’re here for you in more ways than ever before. You can turn to us to make care more accessible and affordable by offering telemedicine services at no cost to members. We’re also waiving all out-of-pocket costs associated with COVID-19 testing for all members, and for treatment of COVID-19 for fully insured employer groups, individual market, Medicare Advantage members and self-funded groups who wish to participate. Find confidence and stability through low or no cost plans for those experiencing hardship. Maintain human connections in spite of physical barriers, thanks to things like a 24/7 nurse hotline, expanded support for emotional well-being and online access to behavioral health specialists including therapists.
Waiving all out-of-pocket costs associated with the testing and treatment of COVID-19
And know that we’re dedicated to supporting our communities and organizations working fearlessly to care for our neighbors.
Online access to behavioral health specialists and therapists
Excellus BCBS and our communities have always shared a story — and this is our chance to write a chapter about rising to a new challenge with strength, optimism and determination.
Low or no cost plans available
Together, we can come through this — and reveal our best along the way. Find more answers and support at ExcellusBCBS.com/COVID19 A nonprofit independent licensee of the Blue Cross Blue Shield Association
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WITH GRATITUDE You have been caring for the community since 1890 — you were with us then; you are with us now and we know we can count on you always because your commitment is unrelenting. You are compassionate. You care. You work hard and always put others first. You accomplish the impossible and people’s lives are better because of you. In celebration of National Nurses Week, we thank nurses everywhere. And, to the 162 nurses that are part of the Nascentia Health Family, remember that you are valued for the people that you are, and we thank you for everything you always do.
888-477-HOME • nascentiahealth.org Page 20
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IN GOOD HEALTH – Mohawk Valley’s Healthcare Newspaper • May 2020