Inspire Coastal Bend Magazine Medical Nov/Dec 2020 by Inspire Coastal Bend Magazine

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TLC COMPLETE CARE DOCS

COASTAL BEND MAGAZINE

DR. DANIEL WAGNER DR. BRIAN RICH

NOV/DEC 2020

Dr. Mathew Alexander

We passionately aim to raise the standard of care in Corpus Christi. Our goal is to offer an elevated level of service comparable to the worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s leading cancer centers by improving the quality of life of our patients right here in Corpus Christi.

Minimally invasive brain Minimally invasive spine Dr. Melissa Macias

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contents NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2020

12 COVER STORY DRS. DANIEL WAGNER & BRIAN RICH From shaking hands during a hunting trip to creating a successful freestanding emergency room, these emergency medicine physicians have a passion for serving both their patients and the community.

FEATURE 10 GLOW!

PATIENT

18 Mental Health Care for Veterans

HEALTH & WELLNESS 20 Satisfaction

COVER AND TABLE OF CONTENTS PHOTOS BY: TWINS MEDIA I N S P I R E C O A S TA L B E N D M A G . C O M

MEET THE STAFF

COASTAL BEND MAGAZINE

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2020

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WE WILL PUT YOU BACK IN THE GAME OF LIFE

TREATMENTS AND PROGRAMS FOR: Musculoskeletal Injuries Pregnancy (Pre/Post Natal Care) Diabetes Fall Prevention Neuropathy Cardiovascular Therapy Osteoarthritis Vertigo (Dizziness) Osteoporosis Athletic Rehab (Sport Specific) Thoracic-Outlet Syndrome Orthotic Evaluation/Fabriation Pre-Op/Post-Operative Therapy

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FEATURE

NOTE: Six to 12 months is the ideal time to come in every three to four weeks for a treatment.

GLOW! The bride’s guide for glowing skin BY: ANGELICA MENDEZ

Before anything: chill out Weddings are already stressful, and 2020 has not helped one bit. But managing your stress can seriously go a long way. Stress can cause inflammation to worsen and lead to inflammatory conditions such as eczema, psoriasis and keratosis pilaris. Now: skin health is a must! Skin health is a must! We provide complimentary med spa consultations to establish the best products and treatment plans for you. Don’t put off a professional treatment until the night before your big day due to the possibility of purging. Purging occurs when starting a

’ve shared this guide with many brides over my eight years as a licensed aesthetician. It is especially near and dear to my heart most recently, as I am one of many who became engaged in 2019 with the hopes of becoming a Mrs. in 2020. But as we all know, the COVID-19 pandemic had different plans.

Despite the uncertainty and adjusting, many were still able to have a modified version of their special day. Others, including me, had to shift to 2021. Thankfully, it is never too early – or too late – to get a wedding-day glow!

new product or procedure, speeding up the skin’s cell turnover and pushing out the gunk residing underneath your skin. One year prior: complexion perfection Tackle texture issues, acne and hyperpigmentation. Together we can decide between laser treatments, chemical peels and microneedling.

continued

To schedule your consultation, call 361-888-7417.

PHOTOS COURTESY OF THE INSTITUTE OF COSMETIC SURGERY

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Our newest addition, PRP microneedling, is collagen induction therapy that utilizes your own platelet rich plasma (PRP), which stimulates collagen and helps with acne scars, surgical scars, wrinkles and fine lines, hyperpigmentation, sun damage, large pores and uneven skin texture. It’s best to do a series of three to six treatments for optimal results. 10 months prior: start laser hair removal Out with the razor – in with the laser! Consider laser hair removal. It’s worth it! Especially on your honeymoon, when shaving should be the last thing on your mind.

Medical Office Space Available in Corpus Christi, TX

Six to eight treatments, spaced four weeks apart, are recommended for optimal results. Nine months prior: nourish your skin HydraFacials and custom facials are loaded with skin nutrients like antioxidants, peptides and other customized elements to reveal a brightened uniform complexion. Facials can include extractions, dermaplaning, HydroJelly masks, eye or lip boosters and more! Six months prior: avoid dehydration We know you’re celebrating (and coping with some stress), but now is the time to take a break from the pino and get to juicing! Alcohol is a dehydrator, a capillary breaker and a radiance robber. Cut back and opt for leafy greens a few months before your wedding. Green juice is excellent for skin because it is oxygenating and contains minerals that help stimulate the lymphatic system and will drain out puffiness! Four months prior: wedding bliss glow The secret to radiance is Laser Genesis. This A-list laser treatment reduces the appearance of lines and scarring, and creates a beautifully luminous effect on the skin. Best of all, it’s comfortable and described as “warm raindrops” kissing your skin. Take it up a notch and do it with a HydraFacial for the best possible glow. One week prior: say ‘I do’ to pretty peepers Avoid mascara tears with a lash lift and tint to give yourself the appearance of naturally fuller lashes, while opening and brightening your eyes. I hope this guide is helpful, and I look forward to continuing to help you all glow!

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//COVER STORY

SUPPORTING THE COMMUNITY THROUGH COMPLETE CARE An unusual combination of duck hunting and medical expertise led to the creation of a freestanding emergency room run by passionate doctors who thrive on supporting the community.

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By: JACQUELINE GONZALEZ Photos by: TWINS MEDIA

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“WE LOVE THE PEOPLE, WE LOVE OUR PATIENTS, WE LOVE THE CITY. WE’RE HERE TO STAY.”

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Drs. Daniel Wagner and Brian Rich aren’t your typical emergency medicine physicians. The longtime friends and business partners share a love of South Texas and the outdoors, which ironically is what led to the handshake that would change their lives and the accessibility of reliable health care. No one ever plans on having an emergency, but when the time comes, there is no worse feeling than sitting in a crowded emergency room for hours, waiting to be admitted. Wagner and Rich, both emergency medicine physicians at Spohn South and Shoreline, respectively, saw firsthand what the overcrowding and tedious wait times in the emergency room were doing to patients and knew that something had to be done to alleviate this problem. From a personal standpoint, Wagner felt there was a business aspect of the practice of medicine that was not being engaged in the hospital setting, and even though he was offered a position as director of emergency (which was a very secure and lucrative position), it wasn’t what he wanted. Although this amazing job offer would be considered a sign to follow his current path, Wagner mulled it over, prayed to God and ultimately decided that following the Lord was the right choice, so he began to research the logistics of his business venture. This process was going to be a huge undertaking for one person, so he considered finding a partner who knew emergency medicine in the same capacity, and who would be willing to take a leap of faith to do something wild and risky, but beneficial to the community. The first person to come to mind was his longtime friend, Dr. Brian Rich. A year later, while in a duck blind, they shook hands and agreed to begin creating their urgent care center. The longtime friends laugh boisterously as they look back on the hurdles they encountered during this journey. They recall the confusion and making every mistake in the book as they learned the ropes for the administrative, sales and business aspects of creating this clinic. “Working in a hospital, everything is done for you,” Wagner says. “You don’t have to hire a nurse, receptionist, pharmacist or find the drugs or machines. All you have to do is see patients.” They also had to take on the responsibility of purchasing medical equipment and medications, not to mention paying a visit to Best Buy on Black Friday to purchase refrigerators, computers and TVs for the clinic. They didn’t let the shift in responsibilities slow them down, though. Their determination was admirable, and although they were still working fulltime at the hospital, they would meet up once a week to divide a list of tasks that needed to be taken care of.

The clock was ticking, and with roughly six months left before the building was finished, they realized they didn’t have an office manager, nor did they have employees. The pressure and stress began as they realized there was no way they could run this clinic on their own, still work fulltime at the hospital and take care of a family, but their faith in God gave them the strength, and answers, that they needed. After having a few people bail on them, Rich put an ad on Craigslist for an office manager, and Sandy Barber, a woman with years of administrative experience, responded to the call, and had everything up and running right on time for the opening of TLC Urgent Care clinic on Jan. 3, 2011. Initially, they had very little success, but their love of medicine and dedication to the community gave them the strength they needed to hold on to their faith and continue to push through the struggles. Business was slow, so they tried new things to get the word out, including adding new signs to advertise their services.

“WE WANTED OUR PATIENTS TO BE TAKEN CARE OF COMPLETELY AND RECEIVE ANSWERS RIGHT AWAY, AND WE CAN DO THAT HERE, NOW.”

Slowly, but surely, their clientele grew. In the beginning, they were putting in 12-hour days, juggling running the clinic and working at the hospital, but within 18 months of opening, they were looking for more space to accommodate the influx of patients – roughly 20 new patients per day. Within three years, they opened a second clinic in Midtown Corpus Christi. Although each moment was stressful, they can look back and appreciate the growth and the positive response they’ve received from the community. As part of the commitment they have to the community they hold so dear to their heart, in December 2014, they made the decision to transition into a fulltime emergency room that is fully staffed and open 24 hours a day, seven days a week. This new model is designed to keep patients safe and healthy in one location, rather than being moved to different clinics for testing and extra care. “We didn’t have that with the urgent care clinic originally,” Wagner says. “We wanted more. We wanted our patients to be taken care of completely and receive answers right away, and we can do that here, now.” Although they have dedicated their lives to emergency medicine, the doctors do enjoy the occasional downtime. Some of their favorite pastimes include going on vacation, spending time with family and devoting time to God. They also like spending time together, enjoying the outdoors, hunting and the bay. “It’s not just that we enjoy the field and the water,” Rich says. “We have traveled to many places, and nothing compares to what Corpus Christi has to offer. It just isn’t the same.” Wagner and Rich both agree on their mantra: “We love the people, we love our patients, we love the city. We’re here to stay.”

DR. DANIEL WAGNER was inspired by the Bible verse John 6; 5-13 when making his decision to open the clinic. The verse involves Jesus telling Philip to feed thousands of people, but Philip was lost since he was unequipped to feed so many people. It was through stepping out in faith and trusting God that he was able to achieve a goal that seemed almost unattainable. Wagner followed suit, and his faith has led him to immeasurable success.

Call TLC COMPLETE CARE at 361-336-0136, or visit them onsite at 7330 S. Staples St. in Corpus Christi for all your emergent care needs.

PATIENT individuals and families who believe they may require mental health assistance.

Mental Health Care for Veterans

Veterans receive psychiatric nursing services at home through AAdi Home Health & Hospice. By: KATE COLLINS

Adi Home Health & Hospice provides a wide variety of services including skilled nursing, wound care, physical therapy, social work and psychiatric nursing. Psychiatric nursing services take place in the home and provide medication management, case management, addiction assistance, disease management, resource education and coping skills training.

transition back into civilian society with services like medication management.

Mental health care is important for every patient, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic. As isolation continues, an increase in depression and anxiety has been observed in senior living community residents, veterans and others. AAdi is proudly able to serve veterans of all statuses who have difficulty leaving home, and our agency currently provides a wide variety of services to dozens of veterans.

In the Coastal Bend, there are different veteran organizations that bring the community together through activities, town halls, communication and safety. The Veterans Round Table meets every Tuesday via Zoom and Facebook to discuss all things happening in the community that involve veterans. This is a great place to receive information, gain assistance and be reunited with fellow veterans.

We open the month of November in celebration of Veteran’s Day. Service members are expected to complete all missions as presented to them with little thought about how it will impact their mental health in the future. Mental health is a general term to describe psychological and emotional well-being in individuals or groups.

Endeavors is an additional agency that provides resources to veterans, including disaster relief, housing, employment assistance, veteran and family services, and mental health services.

Service members and veterans are at a high risk for adverse mental health conditions, including depression and anxiety. In some cases, veterans may qualify for home health services as a part of their

Please reach out to your primary care physician, psychiatrist or VA representative about eligibility requirements. In the Coastal Bend, the Veterans Administration serves just over 5,000 veterans who receive a plethora of services, including mental health support.

According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), Texas experienced 3,930 deaths by suicide in 2018, of which 496 were veterans. During the pandemic, mental health concerns have heightened to include lack of social interaction and loss of wages/jobs. As we approach the holiday season, it is important to keep in mind the resources in the Coastal Bend for

Additionally, taking time to practice selfcare is a great way to promote healthy physiological and emotional well-being. A few ways to practice self-care include exercising, taking a nap, coloring or reading a book. The key is to do something that is healthy and will be a good distraction. Psychiatric nurses work with patients and their families to assess mental health needs, develop a diagnosis and plan of care, implement the plan of care and evaluate the effectiveness of the plan. In addition, psychiatric nursing can provide comfort and an outlet for a safe place to increase suicide and safety awareness. Psychiatric nurses at AAdi see a wide variety of cases and diagnoses, but we commonly evaluate and treat major depressive disorder, Alzheimer’s/dementia, schizophrenia and bipolar I and II disorders. If you have a mental health concern regarding yourself or a loved one, please consult with your primary care physician or psychiatrist. If you believe your concerns require immediate attention, the following hotlines resources may assist: • The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline is 1-800-273-8255. You can also text “GO” to 741741 to reach a certified crisis counselor. • The Veterans Crisis Line is 1-800-2738255. Press 1 or text 838255 to reach a qualified agent.

Mental health care is important for every patient, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Kate Collins, MSW, is a member of the AAdi Home Health & Hospice team and also a veteran. You may contact her at kcollins@aadihh.com. For more information about AAdi and the psychiatric nursing services we provide, call 361-452-3384.

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HEALTH & WELLNESS

Satisfaction How exercise makes us better lovers at any age By: Lisa Wright

it people make better lovers. It’s true at any age, even later in life. And it shouldn’t surprise anyone. If you’re stronger and more agile and have better stamina, chances are you’re going to have a more satisfying sex life – and help your partner have one, too.

It’s still important In a study shared in September, researchers followed 3,200 women over 15 years. Here’s some of what they found. “About a quarter of women rate sex as very important, regardless of their age,” said Dr. Holly Thomas of the University of Pittsburgh. “The study showed substantial numbers of women still highly value sex, even as they get older, and it’s not abnormal. “If women can speak up with their partner and make sure that they’re having sex that’s fulfilling and pleasurable to them, then they’re more likely to rate it as highly important as they get older.” Higher aerobic exercise levels can improve sexual performance, stamina and

If you’ve stopped moving in more ways than one, then consider jump-starting your fitness with our 21-Day Longevity and Strength Program. My team of certified functional aging specialists can help you extend the length and quality of your life by restoring your strength, improving your balance and reducing your joint pain.

desire among men and women alike, another study reported last year. More exercise brought more benefit among participants in the study, researchers found. For example, among the fit group of people who participated, vigorous running reduced the risk of sexual dysfunction by 25 percent for men and 30 percent for women. Sex is physical, after all Part of this is just simple physiology: When you’re in good cardiovascular shape, blood flows better throughout the body, including to your sexual zones. More evidence shows how physical activity and other lifestyle factors “may offer some protection against sexual problems” that are common later in life, another study reports. “To stay healthy or to improve health, older adults need to do two types of physical activity each week: aerobic and strength exercises.”

Our programming specifically for the active, 50-plus-year-old now has many options, including small-group in-studio training and live training streamed into your home or anywhere.

Meet Lisa Lisa Grace Wright, C.F.T., F.A.S., is the founder and C.E.O. of L.G.W. Fitness Inc., a published author, a functional aging specialist and a business coach for the Functional Aging Institute. Through strategic planning and marketing consulting, she helps fitness business owners, from small studios to big-box gyms, create a compelling and effective business plan to inspire an aging population to take action toward their health. Over the last 20-plus years, Wright has built her brand, Your Personal Best, in Corpus Christi, Texas. She has expanded her influence across the country, equipping others like herself who want to change lives and promote aging actively.

For more information, contact founder Lisa Wright at Y.P.B. Training Studio at 361-857-5087 or lisa@ypbtrainingstudio.com. Be sure to request a free copy of her book while you’re at it.

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PHOTO COURTESY OF LISA WRIGHT

Scientific research backs this up. For instance, a new study seeks to debunk the myth that “older” people aren’t interested in sex. It’s a persistent stereotype played out in countless T.V. sitcoms and standup routines. But as anyone over, say, 50 can tell you, it’s simply not true for everyone past middle age.

It can even get better later The Mayo Clinic adds that “many older couples report greater satisfaction” because of fewer distractions, more time and privacy and no worries about pregnancy. “Contrary to common myths, sex isn’t just for the young. Many seniors continue to enjoy their sexuality into their 80s and beyond,” the clinic says. “A healthy sex life not only is fulfilling, but also is good for other aspects of your life, including your physical health and self-esteem.”

See you soon, weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll be ready when you are We invite you to experience our downtown venue. Our historic charm and exceptional service will perfectly compliment your special occasion. Whether youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re booking a surprise engagement, wedding and reception, a shower, rehearsal dinner, or even bridal portraits; we have the best amenities available. The Bay Jewel is the perfect fit for your big day and we will customize any full-service package for you.

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361.881.8624 Contact Us for Current Specials 624 N. Mesquite Street, Corpus Christi, TX 78401 info@thebayjewel.com thebayjewel.com

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