June • July 2018 ourhealthlynchburg.com
NURSES OUTSTANDING Celebrating
LOCAL NURSES for making the
TRUE DIFFERENCE in
HEALTHCARE
PLUS:
NATURAL HEALTH:
TIPS FOR TAKING ON
SUMMER HEAT
REASONS TO SMILE: WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW ABOUT ORAL
HEALTH SERVICES
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OurHealth | The Resource for Healthy Living in Lynchburg and Southside
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FEATURES JUNE • JULY 2018
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OUTSTANDING NURSES
A celebration of 11 nursing professionals in the Lynchburg & Southside communities who were nominated by colleagues, family members and friends for their excellence and commitment in everything they do.
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UNCOVERING THE COSTS OF MEDICAL CARE
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MEN ON A HEALTHY MISSION
Six ways to find out how much you are really paying for healthcare – plus how to negotiate your medical bills!
In honor of Men’s Health Month in June, physicians in the Lynchburg & Southside communities share their insight on important screenings all men should have plus much more!
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OurHealth Community ON Social Media! Write us, tweet us, or tag us today! #OurHealthLynchburg
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DEPARTMENTS JUNE • JULY 2018
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The Pulse | People. Places. News to Know.
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Calendar | Things to Do in Lynchburg & Southside
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Health Scene | Happenings. Who’s Who. Trending.
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Health A-Z | Insight. Awareness. Mindfulness for the Whole Family.
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Holistic & Natural Medicine | Observe. Progressive. Open-Minded.
during June and July for your Mind, Body and Soul
Reasons to Smile at Every Age: Roanoke & New River Valleys dental care specialists provide important information in our guide to overall oral health. Rick Lee, MD of Blue Ridge Chronic Pain Center in Lynchburg shares his expertise on easy, natural ways to get healthy this summer.
20 – Healthy living organizations throughout the Lynchburg area gathered at the McGurk House for the 2nd annual Health and Wellness Fair.
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21 – Freedom 4/24 hosted their 10th Annual Run 4 Their Lives 5K event benefiting local anti-trafficking efforts.
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Beauty | Conviction. Expression. Confidence.
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Aging Well | Wisdom. Dignity. Support.
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Funny Bone | Spot the Seven Differences
Community Minded
Q&A on Health | Questions. Answers. Knowledge.
OurHealth | The Resource for Healthy Living in Lynchburg and Southside
Food and Fitness | Nutrition. Exercise. Prevention. Summer Foods: Summer time is nearly here and so are healthy fruits and vegetables that you can use for our delicious featured recipes!
Volunteer Spotlight | Heroes. Champions. Collette Finger’s talents make Dawson’s Inn feel like a “second home” for residents.
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The American love affair with plastic surgery is alive, well, and becoming increasingly intense.
Ease the stress on your loved ones: do your estate planning now
www.OurHealthLynchburg.com
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june • july 2018
PUBLISHER PRESIDENT/EDITOR-IN-CHIEF VICE PRESIDENT OF PRODUCTION ACCOUNTING MANAGER CHIEF GRAPHIC DESIGNER GRAPHIC DESIGNER GUEST PHOTOGRAPHER
McClintic Media, Inc. Steve McClintic, Jr. | steve@ourhealthvirginia.com Jennifer Hungate Laura Bower Karrie Pridemore Tori Meador Terry Brown Photography
CONTRIBUTING MEDICAL EXPERTS H. Chapman Brown, III, RPh Kenneth A. Musana, MD Richard Ruble, CPO Catherine Schuller, MD Carrell Spann, MD Joanna Thomas, MD CONTRIBUTING PROFESSIONAL Catherine Brown EXPERTS & WRITERS Brandy Centolanza Jennifer Lamont Michelle McLees
ADVERTISING AND MARKETING Cindy Trujillo | Senior Media Consultant P: 434.907.5255 | cindy@ourhealthvirginia.com SUBSCRIPTIONS Subcriptions are $19.95 per year. To receive OurHealth Lynchburg and Southside via U.S. Mail, please contact Jenny Hungate at jenny@ourhealthvirginia.com
@ourhealthmag
COMMENTS/FEEDBACK/QUESTIONS We welcome your feedback. Please send all comments and/or questions to the following: U.S. Mail: McClintic Media, Inc., ATTN: Steve McClintic, Jr., President/ Publisher/Editor: 303 S. Colorado Street • Salem, VA 24153. | Email: steve@ourhealthvirginia.com | Phone: 540.387.6482 Ext. 1 Information in all print editions of OurHealth and on all OurHealth websites (websites listed below) and social media updates and emails is for informational purposes only. The information is not intended to replace medical or health advice of an individual’s physician or healthcare provider as it relates to individual situations. DO NOT UNDER ANY CIRCUMSTANCES ALTER ANY MEDICAL TREATMENT WITHOUT THE CONSENT OF YOUR DOCTOR. All matters concerning physical and mental health should be supervised by a health practitioner knowledgeable in treating that particular condition. The publisher does not directly or indirectly dispense medical advice and does not assume any responsibility for those who choose to treat themselves. The publisher has taken reasonable precaution in preparing this publication, however, the publisher does not assume any responsibility for errors or omissions. Copyright © 2018 by McClintic Media, Inc. Reproduction in whole or part without written permission is prohibited. OurHealth Lynchburg/Southside is published bi-monthly • Special editions are also published • McClintic Media, Inc. • 303 S. Colorado Street, Salem, VA 24153, P: 540.387.6482 F: 540.387.6483. MAIN: ourhealthvirginia.com | ourhealthroanokenrv.com | ourhealthlynchburg.com | ourhealthrichmond.com | ourhealthcharlottesville.com | Advertising rates upon request.
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The Pulse
INFORMATION • EVENTS • AWARENESS words | OURHEALTH STAFF WRITER
Openings Runk & Pratt Opens New Memory Support Community in Lynchburg “Pearls of Life”, a state-of-the-art community specifically built to care for seniors with Alzheimer’s disease and dementia, has opened at Runk & Pratt’s Liberty Ridge, located at 107 Monica Boulevard, Lynchburg. The building is designed to facilitate the care of seniors in a number of ways, including a community area called Main Street, designed to look like an old-fashioned line of shops. There are also two enclosed outdoor gardens and a central patio where residents can safely enjoy the outdoors. The Pearls of Life community also includes several multi-sensory life skill centers equipped with familiar objects, such as a rotary telephone, display train set, military uniforms, as well as vintage ovens, cabinets, cribs, and washing machines. The community also features one-of-a-kind advances in technology that aid in memory support, including two Snoezelen rooms, an industry-leading concept that helps sooth Alzheimer’s patients and promote positive interactions with staff and family members. Hallways feature interactive environments where residents can draw shapes, play games, and move objects around simply by touching the wall. Each month an activity coordinator creates unique, stimulating experiences for residents, including musical guests, holiday festivities, exercise classes, pet visits, bingo and trivia games, arts and crafts, worship services, local outings and birthday parties.
Announcements New Cardiac Catheterization Lab Opens at Centra Southside Community Hospital A cutting-edge cardiac catheterization lab has opened at Centra Southside Community Hospital in Farmville. This catheterization lab gives patients access to minimally invasive techniques available to diagnose and treat cardiovascular disease. Rakesh Jain, MD, an interventional cardiologist with Centra Medical Group Stroobants Cardiovascular Center, leads the interventional cardiology program and is bringing over thirty years of experience to the Farmville community. “Catheterization labs save lives and bringing one to the sole hospital provider within 50 miles, is life changing for our patients and their families,” says Tom Angelo, CEO of Centra Southside Community Hospital. “Dr. Jain has an outstanding reputation and is an excellent addition to our medical staff and community.” The new lab, located near the emergency department, features the latest generation of cardiovascular technology. This technology can shorten the procedure time, potentially reduce hospital stay, and offers enhanced safety by reducing radiation doses. More information: www.centrahealth.com
News and Notes Rotary Club of Forest Hosting First Annual Lynchburg Field of Honor The Rotary Club of Forest is hosting the first annual Lynchburg Field of Honor display of U.S. flags as a tribute to past and present American Heroes, including police, first responders, EMTs, firefighters, active duty military and veterans from September 1st – 15th. The display of flags will be located in the grassy fields of Automated Conveyor Systems next to Bausch and Lomb on Graves Mill Road. The flags may be sponsored to honor individuals or groups with funds benefiting programs of the Rotary Club of Forest. More information: www.fieldofhonorflags.org/lynchburg18
More information: www.runkandpratt.com
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OurHealth | The Resource for Healthy Living in Lynchburg and Southside
The Pulse
DON'T MISS
Marketing Director Carriage Hill Assisted Living & Memory Care Community Bedford | 540.586.5982 www.carriagehill retirement.com
James Curtiss, MD, FACG
Gastroenterology Associates of Central Virginia Lynchburg | 434.384.1862 www.GastroCentralVa.com
Karen Ellis, FNP-C
Women’s Health Services Lynchburg | 434.239.7890 www.whscv.com
• NEWS TO KNOW
Cheryl Carter
Randy Ely, MD
Centra Medical Group Bedford General Surgery Center Bedford | 540.425.7695 www.centrahealth.com
REASONS TO at Every Age
Michael Jones, DO
Centra Weight Loss Services Lynchburg | 434.200.2500 www.centrahealth.com
Jon Kilian, EP-C, CSCS, FMS
Lifestyle Fitness & Training Forest | 434.385.4900 www.LifestyleFitness AndTraining.com
J. Stuart May, MD
Women’s Health Services Lynchburg | 434.239.7890 www.whscv.com
Michael Torres, MD Centra Medical Group – Gretna Gretna | 434.656.1274 www.centrahealth.com
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The Pulse
• NEWS TO KNOW
Awards and Recognitions Centra Weight Loss Services Bariatric Surgery Program Receives National Accreditation
Awards and Recognitions Centra Awards Research Prize to Sweet Briar College Student Sweet Briar College student Emily Schlosberg has been named the recipient of the Centra Health Award of Excellence in Student Scientific Research and Collaborative Innovation, a $500 research prize created in 2016 by Centra through a partnership with Sweet Briar College. Centra established the annual award to reward a student researcher from Sweet Briar for a completed project in the areas of science and technology or science and medicine. Schlosberg, a psychology and sociology double major from Fairfax Station who graduates in 2019, won the 2017 award for her contribution to a project started in 2015 by Sweet Briar psychology professor Jessica Salvatore. Schlosberg was part of a team of students that worked on an aspect of Salvatore’s project that Schlosberg calls “Correcting Misperceived Mental Health Norms.” More information: www.centrahealth.com
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OurHealth | The Resource for Healthy Living in Lynchburg and Southside
The Centra Weight Loss Services Bariatric Surgery program has received accreditation as a Comprehensive Bariatric Center through the Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery Accreditation and Quality Improvement Program (MBSAQIP). MBSAQIP is a joint program of the American College of Surgeons (ACS) and the American Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery (ASMBS) and ensures that bariatric (weight loss) surgical patients are treated in a multidisciplinary program of surgeons, dietitians, exercise specialists, and mental health providers. Centra’s accredited center offers preoperative and postoperative care designed specifically for patients with obesity. The program uses a continuous quality improvement model to enhance the safety, efficacy, and experience of patients undergoing bariatric surgery. More information: www.centraweightloss.com
For More of The Pulse Visit: ourhealthlynchburg.com Do you have health-related news to share for The Pulse? Send to Stephen McClintic Jr. via email at steve@ourhealthvirginia.com.
JUNE & JULY
CALENDAR
INFORMATION • EVENTS • AWARENESS
6.1 Greater Lynchburg RELAY FOR LIFE
Cancer patients don't stop because they're tired, and for one night, neither do those who participate in Relay for Life. Help honor everyone who has been affected by cancer by forming a team for the 24-hour event and take turns walking in honor of loved ones who have and continue to battle the disease while also raising money to benefit the American Cancer Society. Visit link for costs | 7 pm Lynchburg City Stadium 3176 Fort Avenue | Lynchburg More information: m sheila.wallis@cancer.org or w www.bit.ly/2rxEpDL
6.5
A Matter of Balance
FALL PREVENTION
This 16-hour course emphasizes practical strategies to reduce fear of falling and increase activity levels. Participants learn to view falls and fear of falling as controllable, set realistic goals to increase activity, change their environment to reduce fall risk factors, and exercise to increase strength and balance. The group will meet twice weekly for four weeks. Ages 50 and older are welcome. Tuesdays and Thursdays June 6 – June 28 FREE | Pre-register by June 1 | 1 pm - 3 pm TSC Yellow Room | Templeton Senior Center 225 Wiggington Road | Lynchburg More information: w www.bit.ly/2G93Lw2 16
OurHealth | The Resource for Healthy Living in Lynchburg and Southside
6.9
BLOOD DRIVE
at Timberlake Family Pharmacy
Help support the American Red Cross and save a life by giving your gift of blood at Timberlake Family Pharmacy. Donors can enjoy ½ off any purchase in Timberlake Family Pharmacy’s Soda Fountain afterwards as a thank you for helping support this great cause. Book your time and submit your rapid pass to give by visiting www.redcrossblood.org/rapidpass. Free | 8 am – Noon Timberlake Family Pharmacy 20276 Timberlake Road | Lynchburg More information: w www.redcrossblood.org
Humankind 5K and Youth Run You don’t want to miss this summer road race tradition on the historic, shaded, streets of Peakland Place. This is the 4th race of the Lynchburg Road Runners Race Series. The 5K will be closely followed by a youth run. Proceeds benefit HumanKind, a non-profit human services organization that strengthens individuals and families through care, counseling and education. 5K registration: $25 Youth Run registration: $10 5K race starts at 8 am Youth run starts at 9:15 am 150 Linden Avenue | Lynchburg More information: w www.bit.ly/2wxtejh
Calendar
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• JUNE & JULY
Snack & Learn:
DIABETES
Come learn about lifestyle and food choices for Diabetes prevention and improved survival with Dr. Teddy Brose, a family medicine practitioner. Enjoy the presentation and a diabetic friendly afternoon snack. Ages 18 and older are welcome. FREE | Pre-register by June 19 2 pm – 3:30 pm Community Room 102 | Miller Center 301 Grove Street | Lynchburg More information: w www.bit.ly/2G6pm8C
Pound Fitness
With Pound, Rock Out your Workout, the world’s first cardiojam session inspired by playing the drums. This exercise class is effective and fun! It includes a full body cardio workout using weighted rip sticks for added results. Strength training and conditioning is also included. The class is for all fitness levels so everyone can rock out at your own pace. Bring water and a yoga mat or towel. Ages 18 and older are welcome. Tuesday evenings throughout July $40 | 6:15 pm – 7:15 pm Craft Room | Fairview Center 3621 Campbell Ave | Lynchburg More information: w www.bit.ly/2IaIXq0
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Calendar
• JUNE & JULY
7.7 Mamas on the Move In partnership with The Motherhood Collective, this walking group is designed to foster relationships and healthy habits. Bring your baby bumps, strollers or bikes and come walk together in life and on the trail. Group meet-up is first Saturdays of the month at Riverside Park, beside the “free little library.” Register in advance or drop in. FREE | 10 am – 11:30 am Alpine Trail | Riverside Park 2238 Rivermont Avenue Lynchburg More information: w www.bit.ly/2KW9id8
LYNCHBURG
7.21 Kayaking
Down the James
Enjoy the lazy days of summer kayaking down the James River. This guided two-mile trip will be led by a James River State Park Ranger. No prior experience needed. All family members are required to pre-register and all equipment is provided, including van transportation from Lynchburg to James River State Park. Ages 16 and older are welcome. $18 | Pre-register by July 19 9 am – 3 pm Miller Center 301 Grove Street | Lynchburg More information: w www.bit.ly/2rAgJyp
COMMUNITY MARKET
Come experience one of the nation’s oldest markets! Located in downtown Lynchburg, the market plays a vital role in our beautiful downtown as a community gathering place and offers the very best products from our region. Stop by to see what keeps us local and proud. Every Saturday | FREE | 7 am – 2 pm 1219 Main Street | Lynchburg More information: w www.lynchburgcommunitymarket.com
7.21 3rd Annual
Virginia Commonwealth Games 5K The 3rd Annual Commonwealth Games 5K is part of the Lynchburg Road Runners Race Series. Participants throughout the state of Virginia are invited to challenge themselves on a road course, touring the campus of Liberty University. $25 | Race starts at 8 am Liberty University | 1971 University Blvd | Lynchburg More information: w www.bit.ly/2wBiAbq 18
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For More Events Visit: ourhealthlynchburg.com Do you have an event that our readers simply must know about? Tell us about it by emailing Stephen McClintic Jr. at steve@ourhealthvirginia.com. Please submit your information at least three months in advance to be considered for publication in the magazine.
Calendar • JUNE & JULY
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Health Scene HAPPENINGS • WHO’S WHO • TRENDING
2nd Annual Health and Wellness Fair at McGurk House Healthy living and healthy lifestyle organizations throughout the Lynchburg area were on hand at the McGurk House in Lynchburg on April 26th for their 2nd Annual Health and Wellness Fair. Attendees enjoyed prizes, refreshments, and games while learning more about health services offered in the community. The host of the event, the McGurk House, is a retirement community for those 62 and over and offers spacious, comfortable apartments with full kitchens, emergency call systems, and conveniences that makes independent living in Lynchburg easy and accessible.
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1 The McGurk House. 2 Clara Carey (resident). 3 Cindy Trujillo – OurHealth Lynchburg & Southside Magazine. 4 Pauline Prillaman (resident). 5 Tevin Allen, Bo Scott, Wayne Davis, Larry Campbell, Mary Moore, Elizabeth Nicely (staff) and Delia Peters (volunteer). 6 Sharon Moore and Ashley Granger with Peace Haven. 7 Guests. 8 Heather Whiteheart – Liberty Ridge Health & Rehabilitation Center. 9 Shirley Crouch (resident) with Catherine Bushnell of Free Foundation and a representative from Centra Cardiovascular.
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Health Scene
Freedom 4/24 10th Annual Run 4 Their Lives 5k Freedom 4/24 hosted their 10th Annual Run 4 Their Lives 5K event on April 28th at Liberty University. Freedom 4/24 is a local anti-trafficking nonprofit that exists to bring freedom and justice to victims and survivors of sexual exploitation and human trafficking. They financially partner with a variety of domestic and international organizations that provide a range of direct services to victims of human trafficking.
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1 Run 4 Their Lives participants at the race starting line. 2 Brian Baker and Makenna Baker of Forest smile at the finish line. 3 Nicole Clarke and Crystalyn Wyatt of Lynchburg celebrate as they finish the race. 4 Zion Ufema of Lynchburg and Madison Dodson of Lynchburg, VA pose in front of the Raise Your Arm Challenge banner with their race medals. 5 The Lynchburg College Volleyball Team poses for a post-race celebratory photo. 6 Heather Zealand and daughter Allie Zealand of Forest proudly show the names of survivors written on their arms; survivors whom they ran for during the 5K. 7 Janeen Marinelli and Faith Marinelli of Lynchburg and Jon Carothers of Lynchburg hand out post-race snacks to participants. 8 Sam Brandt of Lynchburg leading the way, finishing as the Overall Race Winner. 9 Freedom 4/24 President Joy Cover of Lynchburg leads race participants in the Raise Your Arm Challenge for survivors of human trafficking. 10 Tyler Towles of Forest encourages race participants that they are running for HOPE. 11 Lynchburg-based band Jake Ziegler and the Locals providing live music during the race celebration. 12 Brett Clubb of Lynchburg pushing through the final turn of the race. www.OurHealthLynchburg.com
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• HAPPENINGS
Run 4 Their Lives is a Freedom 4/24 event that raises awareness and funds to bring sexually exploited women and children into freedom. At this year’s Run 4 Their Lives, participants ran for survivors Fa and Nan, two girls who have been rescued from trafficking in Thailand and are receiving education from Freedom 4/24’s partner, Home of New Beginnings. We celebrate that in the 10th year of Run 4 Their Lives, more than 550 people participated in the race and collectively raised just over $16,000 in the fight for freedom!
VOLUNTEER
Spotlight HEROES • CHAMPIONS • COMMUNITY-MINDED
Collette Finger’s TALENTS MAKE DAWSON’S INN FEEL LIKE A
“SECOND HOME” FOR RESIDENTS words |BRANDY CENTOLANZA
For the past five years, Colette Finger has dedicated a portion of her free time to helping out at the Rosemary & George Dawson Inn in Lynchburg. The nonprofit facility offers an affordable housing stay for Centra patients and their families while they undergo medical treatment. Finger has been a volunteer at Dawson Inn since it first opened its doors. She can be found there each Tuesday doing any number of tasks: baking, folding sheets, vacuuming, or sewing and repairing household or clothing items, among other duties. “I try to help out any way that I can,” Finger says. “I like to make it a second home for them.” From Handsewn Elephants to Baking Cupcakes, She Makes People Smile Finger enjoys her time at The Dawson Inn. “It’s nice to meet the people who work and stay there and make them smile during a rough time,” she says. Finger also likes to brighten the days of sick children by making stuffed animals and distributing them to the young ones at local hospitals. “I really like to sew,” she says. “Right now, I am working on homemade stuffed elephants for the children. I like to vary the stuffed toys I make.” Finger has a lot of experience with young children. She is a retired French teacher and has six grandchildren. Finger, a resident of Brookneal, is originally from France. She met her husband, Donald, in Spain and they moved to the United States years ago for work. The couple have three children. 22
OurHealth | The Resource for Healthy Living in Lynchburg and Southside
“I came here to this country because I was in love,” says Finger, who has since become a naturalized American. Finger Has the Gift of the “Golden Thread” Volunteering at Dawson Inn has been a valuable experience for Finger. “The people I work with there are all really dedicated and work really hard,” she says. “I get a kick out of my time there.” Those who work and live at the Dawson Inn feel the same way about her. “Colette continues to share her love of teaching and giving back to others as a volunteer at the Dawson Inn,” says Dinah Watson, Community Outreach Coordinator for the Dawson Inn. “She can be found oftentimes in the kitchen, wearing her apron that she made herself, making cupcakes or mixing up a batch of brownies for the guests to enjoy, the ‘comfort food’ when people may need it most,” Watson says. “She is the designated seamstress and can repair just about anything and make it look as good as new. The staff tease her about having the gift of the ‘golden thread’ that holds us all together. She is a wonderful person who shares her love of life with others and is a friend to all.” When it comes to volunteering, “It is better to give than to receive,” says Finger. “I truly believe that.” EXPERT CONTRIBUTER Dinah Watson, Community Outreach Coordinator for the Dawson Inn.
ON THE WEB
More at OurHealthLynchburg.com
VOLUNTEER Spotlight •
athelas
Collette Finger’s Talents Make Dawson’s Inn Feel Like a “Second Home” for Residents
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www.OurHealthLynchburg.com
Questions. Answers. Knowledge. Is jaundice a condition that is more common to develop in the warm weather months? Yes, jaundice, a yellowing of the eyes and skin is more likely to develop in the summer months. The most common cause of jaundice in the U.S. is viral hepatitis, mainly caused by hepatitis A virus and hepatitis B virus.
The differences between
GENERIC and BRAND NAME drugs are neither chemistry nor quality, but
whether the drug is still under patent protection by the company that originally developed it. Patents generally last 20 years.
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Hepatitis A is the most common cause of jaundice in the U.S. It is spread mainly through person-to-person transmission through the fecal-oral route (i.e., eating something that has been contaminated with the feces of an infected person) or exposure to contaminated food or water. Uncooked as well as cooked foods that are not heated to temperatures capable of killing the virus and foods that are contaminated after cooking are another source of infection. Jaundice cases rise in the summer only due to more chances for intake of contaminated water or food due to outdoor activities like swimming, camping, and cook outs.
Kenneth A. Musana, MD Gastroenterology Associates of Central Virginia Lynchburg | 434.384.1862 www.gastrocentralva.com
OurHealth | The Resource for Healthy Living in Lynchburg and Southside
How do generic drugs differ from brand name drugs? A brand name drug product is originally discovered and developed by a pharmaceutical company. For the company to market and sell their product they must gain approval from the Food and Drug Administration by submitting a New Drug Application. Once the patent life expires on a brand name drug it is eligible to be made into a generic. To do this the generic manufacturer ensures that its product contains the same active ingredients as the brand. The differences are neither chemistry nor quality, but whether the drug is still under patent protection by the company that originally developed it. Patents generally last 20 years.
H. Chapman Brown, III, RPh Gretna Drug Gretna | 434.656.1251 www.gretnadrug.com
What’s the best way to prevent yeast infections when wearing bathing suits? There are many simple things you can do to prevent yeast infections during bathing suit season. Some tips include not wear a bathing suit for long periods of time, opting for a cool and dry environment whenever possible, and changing out of a wet bathing suit as soon as possible and putting on dry, clean, cotton underwear (or none at all). After swimming and wearing a bathing suit, dry the genital area with a towel or a hair dryer on cool setting. Try not to use extra products such as douches or powders – they can promote an imbalance of bacteria and predispose you to opportunistic infections like yeast.
Catherine Schuller, MD Women’s Health Services of Central Virginia Lynchburg | 434.239.7890 www.whscv.com
Local health. Anywhere you go. OurHealth magazine is Lynchburg & Southside’s only resource entirely dedicated to delivering information about local healthcare services and healthy living topics. Pick up our print edition at more than 900 locations throughout the area or get the digital edition by visiting
OurHealthLynchburg.com .
www.OurHealthLynchburg.com
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Questions. Answers. Knowledge. What are Vitamin C Serums and are they are good idea?
VITAMIN C plays a role in production of collagen and elastin, which
are reduced in the normal aging process. It is also an antioxidant and can help reverse negative effects of UV radiation.
Vitamin C sera are topical applications of Vitamin C. Vitamin C plays a role in production of collagen and elastin, which are reduced in the normal aging process. It is also an antioxidant and can help reverse negative effects of UV radiation. Vitamin C can also help reduce excess pigmentation from sun damage. Products available with vitamin C have variable amounts of vitamin C, various absorption rates and can irritate the skin at high concentrations. Your dermatologist can better discuss Vitamin C and other products to use that may be helpful for the anti-aging process.
Carrell Spann, MD
Dermatology Consultants 434.847.6132 | Lynchburg www.lynchburgdermatology.com
What is a K-Level? A K-level is a classification of the functional level of the amputee that is based on the potential activity level that a patient is at or will ultimately be able to reach. This classification was originated by Medicare and is somewhat subjective being based only on visual observation, which is not always optimal. A testing process has been developed called the Amputee Mobility Predictor that takes the subjectivity out of the equation and provides the necessary documentation needed that will match the function level with the available corresponding prosthetic componentry, which the patient’s insurance will then cover. This test is performed by a qualified physical therapist and can be completed in about 30 minutes.
Richard Ruble, CPO
Excel Prosthetics and Orthotics Lynchburg | 434.528.3695 www.excel-prosthetics.com
Should college students have an established relationship with a primary care doctor in the same town where they go to college that is different from their primary care doctor at home? As with answers to all questions in healthcare, it depends. For the healthy college student who only needs to see their primary care doctor for annual visits, probably not. For those college students who need regular visits however, collaboration between the home provider and one in the same college town is very helpful. Monitoring ADHD therapies, triaging asthma or allergy exacerbations, adjusting anxiety and depression medications during stressful times are just a few examples in which it is easier to evaluate locally and with the same provider. I would suggest establishing with a provider in the college town for patients needing visits quarterly or more often. If possible, having open communication with medical record releases set-up before leaving for college makes the transition easy.
Joanna Thomas, MD
Central Virginia Family Physicians Forest | 434.382.1125 www.cvfp.net
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OurHealth | The Resource for Healthy Living in Lynchburg and Southside
Q A ON HEALTH • Knowledge
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OurHealth | The Resource for Healthy Living in Lynchburg and Southside
Health
A-Z
INSIGHT • AWARENESS • MINDFULNESS
An Insider’s Guide to Better Oral and Overall Health words | JENNIFER LAMONT
Everyone wants a beautiful, healthy-looking smile. After all, our smile is usually the first thing others notice about us. But a healthy mouth is more than just aesthetics. From infancy to our golden years, keeping our teeth healthy helps us… well, keep them. More importantly, good oral hygiene also helps us stay healthier overall. The mouth is the gateway to the rest of the body, meaning dental professionals can tell a lot about a patient’s overall health by assessing the state of that person’s mouth. One of the primary roles of dental health professionals in the Lynchburg area and beyond is to help their patients maintain healthier mouths, with specialized techniques and treatments. Learn here firsthand what several local practitioners say about oral health, some of the diagnostic and treatment options they provide, and an overview of all oral health specialties.
Family Dentists are Preventive Pros The main dental health provider to people of all ages, general dentists are the first stop for patients in getting overall oral healthcare. As the primary oral health provider, they’re trained to diagnose, treat and coordinate care for everyone in the family. They also focus much of their
What people need to realize is that a
HEALTHY MOUTH can go a long way into
IMPROVING SYSTEMIC HEALTH. - Brad A. Lentz, DMD -
www.OurHealthlbss.com
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Health A-Z
• AWARENESS
time on educating patients in prevention. Stopping oral disease in its tracks with diagnostics and teeth cleanings, they educate patients on how to improve the health of their mouths. The effect on overall health is oftentimes far-reaching.
You can have bleeding gums and no one really thinks it’s so awful because it’s not acute pain, but people have to be aware that
PAIN IS A POOR INDICATOR WHEN THERE’S A PROBLEM.
“What people need to realize is that a healthy mouth can go a long way into improving systemic health. A lot of the food and beverages that can cause systemic disease can compromise oral health as well. Also, poor oral health and tooth loss can lead to more difficulty eating. Many patients tend to have a worse diet when their overall oral health is lacking and therefore have nutritional deficiencies,” says Brad A. Lentz, DMD, Associate Dentist at Lynchburg Dental Center in Lynchburg. Eating a healthy, well-balanced diet is also key for preventing dental problems. “A lot of dental problems can be alleviated by an improvement in diet,” says Dr. Lentz. Proper nutrition nourishes the teeth, gums and bone in the mouth so they stay healthy. Along with eating a healthy diet, he recommends that patients brush at least twice a day, floss at least once and using a mouthwash twice per day. “Patients with periodontal disease and higher rates of tooth decay can benefit from brushing more than the two daily recommended times,” advises Dr. Lentz.
- Sherman O. Smock, DDS -
Periodontists are Experts in the Treatment of Oral Inflammation Sherman O. Smock, DDS, of Periodontal Health Associates in Lynchburg treats patients for gum disease and specializes in dental implants to replace teeth that have been lost to gum
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Health A-Z
“You can have bleeding gums and no one really thinks it’s so awful because it’s not acute pain,” explains Dr. Smock. “But looking at it in different terms, is diabetes a serious medical problem? Yes. Does it hurt? No. How about high blood pressure? Yes, it’s serious. But does it hurt? No. The point is, people have to be aware that pain is a poor indicator when there’s a problem.” Gum disease is so prevalent in Virginia that nearly 70 percent of all people over the age of 65 have periodontitis, the most severe form, according to data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Half of all Virginians and people throughout the U.S. have some level of gum disease.
Reasons to Smile at Every Age
He says studies show getting gum disease under control improves a patient’s overall health since oral disease is linked to heart disease, diabetes, lung disease, Alzheimer’s and other conditions that have inflammation as their modifying factor. “The key thing is inflammation,” says Dr. Smock. Gum disease is a bacterial infection that causes chronic inflammation while circulating through the rest of the body. But, because its mostly painless – especially in the early stages – people aren’t aware of how serious it is.
•
disease or accidental trauma. He also performs procedures to rebuild lost bone and teeth, restore damaged tissue and repair gum recession.
ORTHODONTICS IMPROVES SELF-CONFIDENCE
with a smile that you’re proud of because
YOU’RE NEVER TOO OLD TO FEEL GOOD about your smile. - Eric Baugher, DMD -
Orthodontists Straighten Teeth and Improve Your Health Specially trained to correct irregularities of the teeth, bite and jaw, orthodontics has come a long way from the “metal mouth” days of silver braces. Orthodontists treat patients to properly
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Health A-Z
• AWARENESS
align bites, reduce crowding and straighten teeth with all types of orthodontics, both low and high-tech. Making these corrections can improve a patient’s oral and overall health by reducing the risks for cracking, dental caries and tooth loss. Further, aligning a misaligned bite into the proper position can alleviate headaches, TMJ pain and sinus problems.
Usually the only treatment to save the tooth is
ROOT CANAL THERAPY with about a
90 TO 95 PERCENT SUCCESS RATE
with our more advanced treatment techniques of today. - James L. Stanley, DDS, PC -
That’s probably why an increasing number of orthodontic patients are well past their teen years. At Central Virginia Orthodontics, Eric Baugher, DMD says his oldest patient is 82 years old. Orthodontics decreases not only crowding and enamel wear and tear, but also reduces headaches and TMJ pain. Treatment can improve speech and pronunciation, and can alleviate breathing problems. “Orthodontics,” says Dr. Baugher, “improve self-confidence with a smile that you’re proud of because you’re never too old to feel good about your smile.” At the other end of the age spectrum, Dr. Baugher recommends that children see an orthodontist by the time they are seven or eight so that any potential growth-related issues can be caught early and any cases with moderate or severe crowding can be monitored.
Endodontists are Teeth Savers Endodontists are specialists in diagnosing tooth pain and performing root canal treatment and other procedures related to the interior of the tooth. The ability to remove the pulp without removing the entire tooth is the reason that endodontists are considered teeth savers. Root canals can be performed on people of all ages. At James L. Stanley, DDS, PC Endodontics in Lynchburg, Dr. Stanley says, “damage to the nerve system in a tooth at any stage of life may require root canal therapy to save the tooth.” This damage to the pulp or nerve system can come from several things including bacteria, decay, cracks from wear and tear, trauma or even past necessary dental procedures. When a tooth is at the point of causing acute pain or chronic inflammation, notes Dr. Stanley, “usually the only treatment to save the tooth is root canal therapy with about a 90 to 95 percent success rate with our more advanced treatment techniques of today.” While the last thing people want to hear is that they need a root canal, the procedure is usually straightforward, painless and necessary to relieve discomfort and save the tooth. “I have found with the more advanced local anesthesia techniques and anesthetic products we can manage the vast majority of patients with little to no discomfort in the office setting,” he says. His practice also offers patients oral sedation and/or nitrous oxide inhalation (laughing gas). “Most of our patients that elect this modality state it makes for a much more pleasurable experience,” adds Dr. Stanley.
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Health A-Z •
He recommends prevention with good home care and regular visits to the dentist. Although as we get older, the odds of needing a root canal get higher, “the good news is we are saving many teeth today that in years past would have been lost.”
Reasons to Smile at Every Age
Follow a Simple Routine for Better Oral Health To protect both oral and overall health, good oral hygiene is important at every stage of life. To have a reason to smile at every age, the routine is simple:
A
Go to the dentist twice a year. Comprehensive exams and thorough
Eric Baugher, DMD Central Virginia Orthodontics in Lynchburg
cleanings will help prevent problems before they occur.
B
Floss every day, if not after every meal, to dislodge food and bacteria. Brush twice a day minimum, for at least two minutes each time. Use
C
a 45° angle and brush all the surfaces. To really get teeth clean, use a water flosser every night before
D
bedtime. This gets rid of debris and bacteria that both regular flossing and brushing miss.
Brad A. Lentz, DMD Lynchburg Dental Center in Lynchburg
EXPERT CONTRIBUTORS Eric Baugher, DMD with Central Virginia Orthodontics in Lynchburg Brad A. Lentz, DMD with Lynchburg Dental Center in Lynchburg Sherman O. Smock, DDS with Periodontal Health Associates in Lynchburg James L. Stanley, DDS, PC with James L. Stanley, DDS, PC Endodontics in Lynchburg
SOURCES
Sherman O. Smock, DDS
American Academy of Periodontology (www.perio.org)
Central Virginia Orthodontics in Lynchburg
American Dental Association (www.ada.org) Dental Care (www.dentalcare.com) Dental Plans (www.dentalplans.com) National Center for Biotechnology Information (www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov)
ON THE WEB
More at OurHealthLynchburg.com James L. Stanley, DDS, PC
READ THIS EDITION OF
James L. Stanley, DDS, PC Endodontics in Lynchburg
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Health A-Z
KNOW YOUR ORAL HEALTH SPECIALTIES: A Resource Guide
• Reasons to Smile at Every Age
ENDODONTICS: Endodontists are dentists who specialize in maintaining teeth through endodontic therapy — procedures, involving the soft inner tissue of the teeth, called the pulp. All dentists are trained in diagnosis and endodontic therapy; however, some teeth can be especially difficult to diagnose and treat, requiring a referral to an endodontic specialist.
DENTISTRY – COSMETIC: From subtle changes to major repairs, a cosmetic dentist performs a variety of procedures to improve your smile. There are many techniques and options to treat teeth that are discolored, chipped, misshapen or missing, including reshaping teeth, closing spaces, restoring worn or short teeth or altering the length teeth. Common procedures used include bleaching, bonding, crowns, veneers, reshaping and contouring and implants, to name a few.
DENTISTRY – GENERAL: General dentists are the main providers of dental care to people of all ages. Unlike specialists, who are mostly focused on a particular aspect of dental practice, general dentists provide a wide array of services that are vital to your continued health, including, but not limited to preventative care, restorative services and cosmetic procedures.
DENTISTRY – GERIATRIC: Geriatric dentistry, or Geriodontics, is the delivery of dental care to older adults involving the diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of problems associated with normal aging and agerelated diseases as part of an interdisciplinary team with other healthcare professionals. Geriatric dentistry is a crucial part of health maintenance for the elderly and medically compromised individuals. On average, people above the age of 65 are expected to suffer from one or more chronic medical conditions that require consideration before initiating any dental treatment.
DENTISTRY – PEDIATRIC: Pediatric dentists are dedicated to the oral health of children from infancy through the teen years. They have the experience and qualifications to care for a child’s teeth, gums, and mouth throughout the various stages of childhood. Children begin to get their baby teeth during the first six months of life. By age six or seven years old, they start to lose their first set of teeth, which eventually are replaced by secondary, permanent teeth. Without proper dental care, children face possible oral decay and disease that can cause a lifetime of pain and complications. Today, Early Childhood Caries (ECC) – which is characterized by the presence of one or more decayed (non-cavitated or cavitated lesions), missing (due to caries), or filled tooth surfaces in any primary tooth – is five times more common in children than asthma and seven times more common than hay fever.
DENTAL SLEEP MEDICINE: Not to be confused with sleep dentistry, which refers to the use of sedation in order to perform dental work, Dental Sleep Medicine is a branch of specialty dentistry that focuses on the craniofacial and physiological connection with sleep breathing disorders. Snoring, upper airway resistance syndrome (UARS), bruxism, and OSA are chief concerns for dentists, who are poised at chairside to quickly identify risk factors for these specific sleep disorders. www.OurHealthLynchburg.com
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ORAL AND MAXILLOFACIAL SURGERY: Oral and maxillofacial surgeons focus on treating problems related to the hard and soft tissues of the face, mouth, and jaws (the upper jaw is referred to as the maxilla). While they sometimes work in a hospital, their practices are more often located in comfortable office settings. You may be referred to one of these specialists by your general dentist for a complex tooth extraction. Or, your orthodontist may send you for an examination if he or she suspects a problem with the alignment of your jaws. It isn’t necessary to have an oral and maxillofacial surgeon perform every type of oral surgery; many dentists are experts for the more common procedures, such as simple extractions. However, for complex treatments that may require more invasive procedures or deeper levels of sedation, these specialists may be recommended.
ORTHODONTICS: Orthodontics is the branch of dentistry that corrects teeth and jaws that are positioned improperly. Crooked teeth and teeth that do not fit together correctly are harder to keep clean, are at risk of being lost early due to tooth decay and periodontal disease, and cause extra stress on the chewing muscles that can lead to headaches, TMJ syndrome and neck, shoulder and back pain. Teeth that are crooked or not in the right place can also detract from one's appearance. The benefits of orthodontic treatment include a healthier mouth, a more pleasing appearance, and teeth that are more likely to last a lifetime.
PERIODONTICS: Periodontists are the dental professionals who focus on prevention, diagnosis and treatment of diseases that affect the gums, as well as other structures that support the teeth. Among other things, they can recognize and treat the early stages of gum inflammation before it gets out of hand; perform minor surgery to resolve complicated cases of periodontitis (severe gum disease); use lasers or gum grafting techniques to restore the appearance of a smile; and even place dental implants in the jaw, when a tooth can’t be saved.
PROSTHODONTICS: Prosthodontics is the dental specialty primarily concerned with the restoration and replacement of lost or damaged teeth. Sometimes called the “architects of the smile,” prosthodontists are highly trained specialists with a unique understanding of all the elements that go into a beautiful, functional and natural-looking smile—not just the teeth, but also the gums, lips, and facial features.
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Health A-Z • Reasons to Smile at Every Age
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OurHealth | The Resource for Healthy Living in Lynchburg and Southside
words |BRANDY CENTOLANZA
Meet this year’s selection of men and women who are making a difference in nursing. Chances are we’ve all met them – nurses who’ve made a doctors’ appointment, a trip to the emergency room, or a hospital stay just a bit more bearable thanks to their smiles and soothing ways. This year’s honorees for Outstanding Nurses in Lynchburg and Southside have been nominated by their peers, managers, family or friends for going the extra mile in their commitment to helping patients in their time of need. Whether it’s holding a hand, offering a hug, lending an ear, or simply sharing in the joys and fears of a patient, these nurses shine on in their profession and beyond.
“These nurses
SHINE
on in their profession and beyond.”
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Features
• INSPIRING
Shanna Akers, EdD, MSN/MBA-HC, RN, CNE
Liberty University School of Nursing Lynchburg
Committed to Both the Art and Science of Nursing “I love the art of nursing and the science of nursing,” says Shanna Akers. “The art of nursing is what most people think of. It is the caring side, the hand-holding side, the personal side of nursing. But nursing is much more. Nursing is filled with science and knowledge, both of which are growing every day. We quantify and qualify the nursing care we offer. It is the research done to ensure we are offering the best care possible, so patients have better outcomes. I only know one profession that allows a person to use both art and science. That is nursing.” Akers started her nursing career in 1996 in Virginia Beach. She has experience in working in the Coronary Care Unit. Since 2009, she has been teaching new nurses at Liberty University School of Nursing. “I enjoy teaching the next generation of nurses and working alongside faculty who mentor and lead our students,” she says. “I am currently a Certified Nurse Educator, and I am a member of Sigma Theta Tau International, a Nursing international honor society, and our local Psi Delta chapter. I also serve on local hospital graduate nurse residency advisory boards.” Akers can’t imagine doing anything else. “My role is a small one, but I truly believe that if we as nurses take the time to invest in the lives of others, the legacy of nursing will be far beyond what Florence Nightingale ever imagined,” Akers says.
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Joanna Asselin, RN Gentle Shepherd Hospice | Lynchburg
Jane Bradshaw, BSN Virginia Episcopal School | Lynchburg
Caring for Others in a Manner that Exemplifies Christ
Honored to be a Part of Three Generations of Nurses
“My desire to become a nurse began at the age of 16 when I received amazing care from nurses while battling a mild illness,” says Joanna Asselin. “It was at that time that a passion to care for and make a difference in human lives began. It has only deepened over the past eight years.”
Jane Bradshaw followed in her mother’s footsteps and became a nurse.
Asselin is a Registered Nurse and a Certified Hospice and Palliative Nurse. She works at Gentle Shepherd Hospice. “As a Christian, I believe that caring for others in a manner that exemplifies Christ is not optional, it is the only way,” she says. “Through implementation of this practice, I have had the honor and privilege to share my faith with many patients and families.” She has received many recognitions and honors for her role as a nurse, including the Oakey’s Hospice Caregiver of the Month Award as well as a nomination for the Oakey’s Hospice Caregiver of the Year Award. “My love for nursing and commitment to providing a higher level of care is so deep that I am currently enrolled in the Doctor of Nursing Practice, Family Nurse Practitioner program at Liberty University,” Asselin says. “My desire as an advanced practitioner is to enhance health promotion, perform and participate in research, and implement evidence-based practice for the improvement of patient outcomes and quality of life.”
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“During World War II, my mom worked at The National Institutes of Health in Bethesda, MD with their research team searching for new drugs for malaria,” says Bradshaw. “Her stories were fascinating. Now my daughter has earned her degree in nursing, so we have three generations of nurses in our family.” Bradshaw has worked in five hospitals in her nursing career, which spans more than 40 years. A breastfeeding advocate, Bradshaw is an International board-certified Lactation Consultant. She is an instructor for Lactation Education Resources and also has a private practice, Best Start Parenting Center. “Working on the educational side of lactation to educate our health professionals is extremely gratifying,” says Bradshaw. Bradshaw is also a school nurse at Virginia Episcopal School. “We have a Health Center especially for the boarding students,” she says. “I love teenagers and enjoy working to keep them happy and healthy while away from home. We deal with and coordinate their healthcare needs from minor colds to concussions and broken bones.” Bradshaw is honored to be a nurse. “I’ve enjoyed every aspect of my career and the feeling I’m making a positive influence in the communities I serve,” she says.
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Outstanding Nurses
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Eula Dalton, LPN Centra Medical Group - Neurology Gretna
Providing the Highest Level of Care for All Patients “As a young child, to be a nurse was one of my greatest desires,” says Eula Dalton, a Licensed Practical Nurse with Centra Medical Group. “I have always wanted to help people, and I receive such satisfaction in doing so.” Dalton works at Centra Gretna Medical Center in Gretna. She’s been with Centra Medical Group Neurology for the past six years. Dalton has been honored by the International Nurses Association and Years of Service Awards and has received many letters of recognition and appreciation from patients, families, and coworkers. “There are many jobs to earn a paycheck but, besides earning money, nursing is such a huge reward,” she says. “When patients arrive, they are usually at their weakest point, nervous with uncertainty, and in need of much support. There is so much satisfaction in helping others, helping to relieve their anxiety, and having a positive influence on them.” Dalton hopes to continue to make a difference for her patients. “My personal vision concerning nursing is to continue to give each patient my highest level of care, and provide competent, compassionate, and excellent care,” Dalton says.
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Features
• INSPIRING
Nancy Downey, GNP
Generation Solutions | Lynchburg
Jamie Gardner, LPN
OrthoVirginia | Lynchburg
Summer Lang, LPN Johnson Health Center Family Practice Lynchburg
Encouraging a Sense of Purpose in Patients
A Passion for Caring and Helping People
Serving Patients with the Best Resources
Nancy H. Downey celebrated a milestone in nursing this year – 45 years as a nurse. Downey cares for patients at Generation Solutions as a Geriatric Care Manager.
“As a little girl, I always thought that nursing was an awesome profession,” says Jamie Gardner, a Licensed Practical Nurse who works as the Clinical Team Leader at OrthoVirginia in Lynchburg. “I have been a nurse for eight years and I love it.”
Summer Lang has been in the nursing profession for more than six years now.
“My aunt was a nurse,” says Downey. “She was my role model, and she encouraged me to become a nurse.” Before her employment with Generation Solutions, Downey treated patients with Hepatitis C. She will never forget one patient whom she encouraged to get a pet so he wouldn’t focus on the side effects from his condition. “The next month when he came for his appointment he looked and acted differently,” Downey says. “He told me that he had taken my suggestion and adopted a dog. Having his dog gave him a sense of purpose, a sense of responsibility and he wanted to continue his treatment because he knew his dog needed him as much as he needed his dog. This was a very rewarding experience for me because my simple suggestion enabled this man to complete his treatment and become cured of Hepatitis C.” That experience is just one reason why Downey is proud to be a nurse. “It is the nurse who is with the patient at some of the most traumatic, embarrassing, and awesome moments of their lives,” says Downey. “Nursing has been my life’s work.”
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When Gardner was younger, she enjoyed visiting her great-grandmother in a nursing home. “Some of my most memorable things were assisting her with getting dressed, feeding her, and attending bingo with her when they had activities,” she says. “Growing up I never swayed from wanting to be a nurse.” Today, she enjoys taking care of her patients at OrthoVirginia. “As a nurse, you have to be willing to sacrifice things at times to be able to offer the best patient care,” Gardner says. “Days are long and the work is hard, not only physically but emotionally, mentally and spiritually. Some people look at nursing as a profession that pays well and is job security. Although those things may be true, without the passion of caring and helping people, being a nurse doesn’t mean anything. I have a passion for helping people. I want to put them first and myself secondary. I love one-on-one time with patients allowing them to talk, express concerns, ask questions or simply to just offer a listening ear. Many times all they want is someone to be present and offer them comfort.”
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“My passion for helping others is why I became a nurse,” says Lang, who works as a Licensed Practical Nurse at Johnson Health Center Family Practice in Lynchburg. “I like being able to assist patients in getting back on track or making better lifestyle choices. Being able to inform a patient of resources they never thought were available to them is a great feeling at the end of the day.” Lang enjoys sharing the highs and lows of life with her patients. “When I worked in a nursing home, one of my favorite residents and I shared the same birthday 60 years apart,” Lang says. “We always celebrated together.” Lang is honored to be recognized for her accomplishments as a nurse. “I am so excited about this,” says Lang. “I believe that an individual must be dedicated and compassionate to be in the nursing field, and I have those qualities. I work with a team of dedicated individuals who pull together to help one another out. This is exactly how I pictured a medical team should be.”
Features • Outstanding Nurses
Karen R. Neas, RN
Centra Specialty Hospital | Lynchburg
Helping People Transition to the Next Level of Care Karen R.Neas became a nurse in part because of her own experiences in and out of hospitals as a child. “I had many illnesses as a child and was frequently in the hospital or at my physician’s office, so I had much exposure to the medical setting,” says Neas. “The human body is absolutely fascinating, and I love to help others.” Neas has been a nurse for more than three decades. For the past 12 years, she has been a nurse case manager. She currently works at Centra Specialty Hospital, a long-term acute care hospital in Lynchburg. “I am able to use my understanding of disease processes and healing to assist patients with a safe transition to the next level of care,” she says. “I enjoy interacting with families and discussing end of life planning.” When caring for patients, Neas stands by the words and advice given to her by her first preceptor while working in a surgical intensive care unit. “She walked me to the wall, pointed to an unseen hanger, and said, ‘See that hook? Every time you come in this place, take off your problems and hang them on that hook. You see, none of your problems are more difficult that what the person and family you are dealing with today are encountering. You are not the patient in the bed struggling. You are not the family watching a loved one die,’” Neas recalls. “This quickly became my motto, and nursing became my escape.” www.OurHealthLynchburg.com
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Features
• INSPIRING
Kat Rivera, MSN, BSN, RN Liberty University School of Nursing Lynchburg
Curtis Stowers, MSN, RN, ACNS-BC Centra Southside Community Hospital Farmville
Martha Vesturland, NP Hospitalist Associates of Virginia Lynchburg and Farmville
Preparing the Next Generation of Nurses
Building Relationships that Impact Lives
Caring for Patients in Crisis is a Gift and Honor
“I was one of those kids who drew pictures of myself with a nurse's cap back in kindergarten,” says Kat Rivera. “I just always knew that I was meant to be a nurse.”
Curtis Stowers fell in love with nursing while working in the Emergency Department at Carilion Clinic in Roanoke.
Martha Vesturland comes from a family of nurses.
Rivera knew she wanted to work in emergency nursing after volunteering at an emergency department in high school. She started her career as an Army Nurse Corp officer in an emergency room at Fort Dix, NJ. Today, Rivera is a nurse educator at Liberty University School of Nursing, where she teaches pediatrics. She is also working toward her doctorate degree. “Leaving the bedside to teach was a longterm plan from the early days of my career,” says Rivera. “I always knew I wanted the end of my career to be as a professor. I love to lecture and teach at the bedside as well. As a clinical instructor, I have had the unique opportunity to take Liberty nursing students to both Guatemala and Kenya for international pediatric missionary nursing experiences.” Interacting with the newest crop of nursing students is inspirational. “Seeing the hearts of the new generation of nurses is the most rewarding part of my job,” Rivera says. “I am so excited about the future of nursing when I look at the quality of the nurses being nurtured at Liberty University.”
“I saw what an impact nurses made on everyone they touched,” says Stowers. “What other profession allows you to be with someone at the beginning of life, the end of life, and when they are fighting to stay alive?” Stowers is a Clinical Nurse Specialist at Centra Southside Community Hospital in Farmville. He is also an adjunct professor at the University of Virginia School of Nursing. “One of the best experiences I can think of happened not too long ago,” says Stowers. “I received a consult for a patient who was not eating. After seeing the patient, I found that they were not eating because they were too weak. They needed a blood transfusion, but due to their religious beliefs, this was not possible. My first task was to get the patient to eat.” Stowers worked to bond with the patient. He was able to convince the patient to eat some flan from a local restaurant and later worked on a care plan that best met the spiritual and physical needs of the patient. “It was a proud day for me,” Stowers says. “Sometimes all we need is something as simple as flan to build a relationship that impacts someone’s life.”
“I have a cousin and aunt who worked as nurses and I grew up admiring these ladies, their hard work, and their dedication to the profession,” Vesturland says. “I felt being a nurse was my calling.” Vesturland is a hospitalist nurse practitioner for the Hospitalist Associates of Virginia in Lynchburg and Farmville. She is also an adjunct professor at Georgetown University School of Nursing and Health Sciences as well as Longwood University School of Nursing. “Nursing is by far one of the most rewarding professions, not to mention one of the toughest,” she says. “Caring for patients in crisis is a gift and an honor and can sometimes be exhausting. Being a nurse practitioner or provider means you have insight into patient treatment as well as disease education, which provides a strong base for your patient to live a long, happy life. I always tell my nursing students early in their clinical rotations if they learn early on to treat each patient as they will be a beloved family member, they will always be successful in their practice.”
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And Why You’re Paying So Much for Healthcare words | JENNIFER LAMONT
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Features • 6 Ways to Lower Your Medical Bills
We comparison shop online for everything these days, looking for the best prices and diligently reading reviews. That is, for everything but medical care. We may go to healthgrades.com to see how a doctor or hospital rates, but, beyond that, specific medical costs remain somewhat of a veiled mystery. With changing healthcare policies, dwindling insurance plans, substantial price disparities and an opaque pricing system involving multiple players, it’s nearly impossible to figure out how pricing for medical procedures are set.
Why Healthcare Costs Are So High in Lynchburg and Beyond In 1960, average healthcare spending per person was $151 per year. In 2016, that number was $10,348 per person, according to the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS).
HEALTHCARE COSTS ARE SOARING DUE SEVERAL FACTORS: Astronomical prescription drug prices Increasing insurance premiums Fewer health plan options with high-deductible plans becoming the new normal Excessive markups and pricing disparity by some providers Unhealthy lifestyles and chronic diseases A general focus on reactive medicine instead of preventive care
A growing number of studies conducted by insurance carriers show that preventive care reduces overall healthcare costs for everyone. For example, treating periodontal disease in patients with co-existing conditions like diabetes, heart disease and pregnancy, can reduce the annual medical costs per patient by a much as $5,600. Hospital admissions also decrease by up to 40 percent. Because even preventive out-of-pocket dental costs are so high, many people don’t visit the dentist enough to get care before a problem arises and costs go up. But if insurers and employers expanded preventive dental coverage to 100 percent, it would save everyone money in insurance payouts, employer costs and patient out-of-pocket expenses. These factors contribute to bigger per-person spending and deeper out-of-pocket costs for patients. In several areas of Virginia, insurance premiums across the individual marketplace were set to increase an average of 50 percent in 2018, according to Virginia’s Bureau of Insurance.
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Features
• INSPIRING
Beyond rising premium costs, more people are starting to question how much a procedure is going to be, or how much they’ll pay after insurance adjustments. Numbers remain difficult to nail down, until the bills come in the mail later. And it doesn’t matter if you have insurance. You’re still paying more because we’re all paying more – as that $10k cost per person keeps rising. Compounding the pricing issue is the fact that providers and payers bargain ferociously to set prices, and those prices vary with extreme differentials. A provider can charge what they want while insurance companies can pay wildly varying reimbursements for the exact same procedures. The good news is that insurers aren’t the only ones who can negotiate with healthcare providers. You can too. In 1960, the
average healthcare spending per person was
$151 PER YEAR. In 2016, according to the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS), the
average healthcare spending per person was
$10,348 PER YEAR. In several areas of Virginia,
insurance premiums were set to increase an average of
50 PERCENT
in 2018, according to Virginia’s Bureau of Insurance.
Knowing costs before you visit the doctor or have a procedure done can help you compare prices and make informed decisions. It can even save you hundreds, and sometimes thousands, of dollars. But where should you start? First, go online. Second, hone your negotiating skills. To help you do both, here are five tools to help you understand and navigate your medical bills.
How to Research Healthcare Prices Online As consumers become more price-savvy and advocates push for price transparency in healthcare, website tools have popped up in the last decade to provide pricing comparisons. Coming from insurers, paid claims, government agencies, web companies and medical providers, these sites strive to give you estimates of fair market pricing, while burning off a bit of the pricing fog.
1
Start with your insurance company, if you’re insured. Some carriers have estimator tools on their sites so you can compare fees across providers and facilities in your area. For example, Aetna’s Member Payment Estimator® lets you compare costs for up to 10 providers for the same procedure.
2
Find the “Fair Price” with www.HealthcareBlueBook.com. This free online tool offers consumers a chance to look up fair market cash prices as well as the quality rankings of medical providers and facilities nationwide. The site calculates the “Fair Price” for any medical service or procedure from a database of medical payment data and customizes it to your geographic area. At the very least, these sites give you an idea of what the usual and customary charge is so you can make informed decisions about your own healthcare. Other sites include Medicare
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Features
payment data and medical codes from the national billing system so you can search for a specific procedure by exact code. Some of these include:
•
Arming yourself with a little pricing knowledge will help you avoid the shock of unexpected bills showing up afterwards. Once you’ve done your online homework, discuss all prices with your insurance company, providers and facilities before going in for any procedure. Keep in mind, doctors usually don’t know how much you’re being charged. So, it’s important for you to find out up front. Start by asking for costs from everyone involved in your care. Many times, they will be estimates. But knowing the usual and customary charge in your area lets you know if you’re being overcharged.
3
Choose the right facility. A colonoscopy at one facility can cost you 600 percent more at another facility down the block. Shiny and new doesn’t always equate to better when it comes to hospitals and other facilities. Choose a facility within your plan’s network to save money, but don’t hesitate to ask whether a procedure can be done somewhere cheaper – if it rates high on quality.
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With insurance or without, always question tests and referrals. Kaiser Health News recently reported in their “Bill of the Month” feature on a woman who was charged $17,850 for a urinalysis she thought was “routine” after her surgery. She ended up settling the bill for $5,000 because her insurance company refused to pay the lab, saying it was an out-of-network claim. Had she questioned what the test was for, whether it was in her network and how much it cost, the bill would have been around $100. Also, Healthcare Bluebook recommends that you question referrals. If other doctors and facilities are involved in your procedure, don’t blindly trust that their services are covered just because your doctor referred you to them. Doctors refer to colleagues or facilities that are close by, known to them, or trusted. They usually don’t know how much you’re being charged or what’s covered. Always check to make sure the referral is covered by your insurance and get costs up front if you’re self-paying.
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6 Ways to Lower Your Medical Bills
www.FairHealthConsumer.org | www.ClearHealthCosts.com | www.NewChoiceHealth.com
ONLINE TOOLS The following free online tools give you an idea of what the customary charge is so you can make informed decisions about your own healthcare.
A
www.HealthcareBlueBook.com
B
www.FairHealthConsumer.org
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Look for—and ask for—discounts. Many providers offer discounts for paying cash up front, either before or after the procedure. Paying the bill in full vs. monthly payments will usually earn you a bigger discount. If you’re paying out of pocket, ask for rates more in line with what insurance companies pay. And regardless of your income bracket, you may still qualify for financial assistance programs.
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www.ClearHealthCosts.com
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Request itemized bills. Make sure to ask for itemized bills, rather than the summary of charges which isn’t as detailed. Review the bill for overcharges, odd-sounding items that seem obscure or need explanation, and outright mistakes. According to groups like Medical Billing Advocates of America, as much as 80 to 90 percent of medical bills contain errors of some kind.
www.NewChoiceHealth.com
While medical pricing transparency doesn’t exactly exist for consumers, it does empower you to get as informed as possible about your own healthcare. Just asking questions can save you money. Opening up the conversation with your doctor and other providers will help take back a little control of your healthcare finances.
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Men, The Doctor
Will See you Now Screenings Men Should Schedule During Men’s Health Month in June words | JENNIFER LAMONT
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By the time Robert N.* saw the doctor, he had already had three heart attacks over the last several months. That came as quite a surprise to the 55-year-old attorney; he had no idea. The only symptoms he’d experienced were a few cases of indigestion. He popped antacids and cut back on spicy foods to fix the problem. He didn’t go to the doctor until he began falling asleep at his desk during the day. Like Paul’s heart attacks, over 50 percent of all myocardial infarctions are silent. Meaning the symptoms are so mild and brief, the person doesn’t even realize it’s happening. But the damage to the heart is still significant. While silent heart attacks and other serious illnesses happen to both men and women, men are more likely to die from them. In fact, men die an average of five years earlier than women. The reasons are both biological and cultural, but there is one that’s completely preventable. One of the main factors – which wives everywhere can attest to – is that men just don’t go to the doctor enough. Some men don’t go ever. They may feel fine. But feeling okay is not the same as being healthy. As Paul describes it, he felt okay except for the occasional heartburn. “In general, men seek to appear strong and brave. They sometimes risk things unnecessarily to appear this way, and they should remember that they can be strong by seeking healthcare and brave by avoiding health risks,” says Dr. David S. Gregory, MD, FAAFP, Program Director at CMG-Lynchburg Family Medicine Residency and board-certified in family medicine.
Feeling okay is not the same as being healthy.
Because even proactive, healthy men suffer medical issues, all men need to go to the doctor at least once a year, even if they feel fine. June is Men’s Health Month and there is no better time to take charge of your wellbeing.
Men’s Top Health Risks: Know Your Numbers Men face certain health risks that shift as they age. Going to the doctor and asking what screenings you need this year is a proactive first step, especially if you haven’t been to the doctor in some time. Getting a yearly physical and knowing your test result numbers can help you stay healthier and keep weight off. Regular screenings can also help ward off some of the major health concerns men face today. Top health risks for men include smoking, obesity, diabetes, high blood pressure, substance abuse, mental illness and risk-related injuries due to accidental traumas. Dr. Gregory reviews his patient’s personal and family history because family history can predict health risks in men. But, he says, “in his experience men avoid healthcare, missing chances to proactively prevent the health risks commonly seen among all Americans.” He recommends getting the following screenings: Blood pressure. Blood pressure is by far one of the most important numbers a man should know, and those numbers should be less than 130/80, advises Dr. Gregory. Lower than the previous guidelines of 140/80, the new numbers mean more of the population in Lynchburg are classified as having hypertension. Because studies show lower blood pressure numbers translate to better overall health, the new guidelines are meant to catch and treat the condition earlier on. 2. Cholesterol (lipid) levels. A cholesterol test “every five years can help to direct lifestyle and medical therapies,” he says, ”but the important thing is knowing cholesterol numbers in connection with a man’s other risks, such as smoking or high blood pressure.” 3. Basic biometrics, such as height, weight and BMI (body mass index). “A man’s Body Mass Index (BMI) – their weight calculated alongside their height – should be < 25,” says Dr. Gregory, “and if not, they should seek assistance to lose weight and screen more actively for high blood pressure, high cholesterol and diabetes.”
“In general, men seek to appear strong and brave. They sometimes risk things unnecessarily to appear this way, and they should remember that they can be strong by seeking healthcare and brave by avoiding health risks.” David S. Gregory, MD, FAAFP Program Director at CMGLynchburg Family Medicine Residency and board-certified in family medicine.
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Features
• INSPIRING
When it comes to other screenings not typically covered by a physical, he recommends men get screened for the following risk factors: TOBACCO AND SMOKING. Beyond eating a healthy diet and exercise, the most important thing men can do is to not smoke or use tobacco, says Dr. Gregory. Healthcare costs in Virginia, directly caused by smoking, amount to $3.11 billion each year. Virginia loses $3.06 billion in productivity each year due to smoking. SUBSTANCE AND ALCOHOL ABUSE. Research shows that men are more likely to abuse drugs and alcohol than women.
“Since your eyes are the only place a doctor can have an unobstructed view of your blood vessels, nerves and connecting tissue, many health conditions such as diabetes, high blood pressure, autoimmune diseases, STDs and even a potential stroke may be seen during an eye exam.”
REGULAR SEAT BELT USE. An astonishing number of drivers aren’t wearing seat belts on the road and men make up the majority of those killed. Between 2011 and 2015, seat belts saved nearly 64,000 lives – enough to fill a football stadium – according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. DEPRESSION AND MOOD DISORDERS. According to the National Institute of Mental Health and the American Psychological Association, about six million men suffer from depression in the U.S., but are far less likely than women to seek help for it.
David M. Harman, MD
SKIN CANCER. Aging may bring about certain skin changes but it’s important to have a full body skin survey done regularly, advises Dr. Gregory.
Board-certified ophthalmologist and founder of Harman Eye Center in Forest
Dr. Gregory recommends finding a primary care physician you can “trust to ask personal questions and rely on to advise you on disease prevention that matters to you.” Trust is especially important for the next screening men should ask for on a regular basis, regardless of age:
“A dentist can be the first to alert a patient of possible systemic disease by just evaluating the condition of the mouth.” Brad A. Lentz, DMD Associate Dentist at Lynchburg Dental Center
STDS. Many sexually transmitted diseases, including gonorrhea, syphilis and chlamydia, are on the rise throughout the state, according to the Virginia Department of Health. Along with HPV (Human Papillomavirus), they’re a significant health concern for men in Lynchburg and the surrounding area. HPV is being blamed for the rising rates of oral cancer in men throughout Virginia and around the nation. Outside the scope of a regular doctor’s visit, there are other ways to assess your overall health.
BEYOND A PHYSICAL:
3 Surprising Ways to Tell How Healthy You Are Visits to the dentist or eye doctor can oftentimes discover undiagnosed medical issues.
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DENTAL CHECKUPS REVEAL MORE THAN YOUR LACK OF FLOSSING.
If you are showing signs of periodontal disease, you may be at risk for much more than bad breath. An infection of the soft tissues of the mouth, periodontal disease can cause bleeding or swollen gums, loose teeth, pain while chewing, or a change in your bite. Worse, it’s associated with several serious illnesses. 52
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According to Brad A. Lentz, DMD, Associate Dentist at Lynchburg Dental Center, “a dentist can be the first to alert a patient of possible systemic disease by just evaluating the condition of the mouth.” He says there is a definite correlation between cardiovascular disease and diabetes with periodontal disease in a significant number of patients in his office.
How Decluttering Makes You Happier, Healthier and Leaner
“While most oral conditions are not a definitive diagnosis, there are many that can alert a dentist to possible systemic disease. For instance, the presence of varicosities (enlarged veins) under the tongue can be a sign of hypertension. Other ulcerations in the mouth can be a sign of gastrointestinal disorders, vitamin deficiencies or vitamin imbalances, just to name a few,” says Dr. Lentz. Unfortunately, men are as unlikely to visit the dentist as they are their regular doctors. According to the American Dental Association, they are statistically more likely to have untreated dental conditions. Men also have higher rates of periodontal disease, says Dr. Lentz, because they tend toward higher alcohol and tobacco use and take more medications that cause dry mouth. Even worse, he adds, “men tend to have a higher instance of oral HPV when dental health is poor, which can cause an increased risk for oral cancers.”
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YOUR EYES ARE THE WINDOWS TO YOUR HEALTH.
Aside from eye diseases such as glaucoma or cataracts, a comprehensive eye exam can also detect several types of serious medical conditions. In fact, ophthalmologists can often detect these conditions first, in their earliest stages. “Since your eyes are the only place a doctor can have an unobstructed view of your blood vessels, nerves and connecting tissue, many health conditions such as diabetes, high blood pressure, autoimmune diseases, STDs and even a potential stroke may be seen during an eye exam,” says David M. Harman, MD, board-certified ophthalmologist and founder of Harman Eye Center in Forest. Dr. Harman says cardiovascular disease symptoms show up in the eyes as well as the body. “In fact, cardiovascular disease may be spotted earlier through a regular eye exam than detected in the body.” Symptoms include changes in blood vessels that can lead to blurry vision or a potential loss of vision in the eye. Additionally, diabetes affects the eyes through eye disease known as diabetic retinopathy, the leading cause of blindness in American adults. With 30 percent of Virginians afflicted with either diabetes or pre-diabetes, a comprehensive eye exam can be life-changing or even life-saving. “At first, a person with this disease may not notice any issues,” says Dr. Harman, “however, over time they will start to notice spots floating in their vision or may notice a general blurring of vision.” He adds that men who have risk factors such as diabetes or high blood pressure, are 65 years or older (even with no other symptoms), African-American, Hispanic, or have a family history of glaucoma should see an ophthalmologist every year, no matter what the age.
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THE SITTINGRISING TEST A depiction of the sitting-rising test (SRT), which involves standing, sitting, and then rising back in a smooth motion without relying on the use of hands or any other external help. The test is an indication of a person’s physical fitness, including components such as balance, muscle composition, muscle strength and flexibility.
Early detection and prevention is crucial to preventing many systemic diseases and specific eye diseases, like glaucoma. Called the “silent thief of sight,” glaucoma is the second-leading cause of blindness in the entire world. But only half of the Americans affected with it realize they have it, says Dr. Harman. Oral and ocular health are important indicators of overall health. Screenings not only help save a patient’s teeth and vision, they can ward off systemic, chronic illness before it takes hold. This next test, while not exactly scientific, is a self-assessment which can also enlighten you as to how fit you are. More than that, it’s supposed to be an accurate barometer of your life span.
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THE SIMPLE TEST THAT CAN PREDICT HOW LONG YOU’LL LIVE. According to a study conducted by Brazilian physician Claudio Gil Araujo, the simple act of sitting and rising can reveal a person’s longevity. Published in the European Journal of Cardiology, 2,000 people were asked to perform the Sitting-Rising Test (SRT), a measure of flexibility and muscle strength.
SCORING:
The test is scored using a 10-point scale. Movements of sitting and standing are scored on a scale of 1-5, and one point is subtracted if a limb is used for support. (examples listed below) Half a point is subtracted for the loss of balance.
The study found that participants of all ages who could perform the test without using their hands or losing balance lived longer than the participants who had trouble getting up or down. Given ten points at the start, you lower yourself to the ground and then rise again. You lose points if you must use your hands, knees, arms or legs on the way down or back up again (see illustration). More points deducted equate to fewer years of life. The message from the study is clear: Maintaining muscle strength, flexibility and balance is a key to living a longer, active and healthier life. It’s up to you. You must eat a natural, whole diet and exercise to live your healthiest life. And you must go to the doctor.
HAND
- 1 point
KNEE
- 1 point
FOREARM
- 1 point
*Robert N's name changed for anonymity.
EXPERT CONTRIBUTORS Dr. David S. Gregory, MD, FAAFP, CMG-Lynchburg Family Medicine Residency, Lynchburg David M. Harman, MD, Harman Eye Center, Forest Brad A. Lentz, DMD, Associate Dentist, Lynchburg Dental Center, Lynchburg
SOURCES HAND ON KNEE OR THIGH
- 1 point
SIDE OF LEG
- 1 point
American College of Cardiology (www.acc.org) American Psychological Association (www.apa.org) Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (www.cdc.gov) National Highway Traffic Safety Association (www.nhtsa.gov)
Sources: Dr. Claudio Gil Araujo, ST Graphics
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St. Clair Eye Care Langhorne Road | 434.845.6086 Timberlake | 434.239.2800 Appomattox | 434.352.5908 www.stclair-eye.com
GARY ST.CLAIR, OD
The rules for eye care are not gender specific. What is recommended for women also holds true for men and children. Our first eye exam should be between the ages of three and five. This is not solely for the purpose of prescribing eyeglasses, but primarily to rule out muscle imbalances, amblyopia (lazy eye) and eye disease. During the pre-teen and teenage years, we often see hereditary vision problems such as nearsightedness, farsightedness and astigmatism. These conditions can be corrected with eyeglasses and contact lenses. By the early to mid-40’s presbyopia starts to set in. This is when we begin to have difficulty reading and seeing near objects. Multifocal glasses and contacts are often used to solve these vision problems. The 60’s often bring on sight restricting opacities known as cataracts. If we all live long enough, we all will likely develop cataracts. Surgical removal is the only treatment for cataracts. Other aging maladies of the eye include glaucoma and macular degeneration. Macular degeneration is usually a disease of the elderly; however, glaucoma can occur at any age. Yearly exams are highly recommended not just for those who need eyeglasses, but for anyone to minimize the risk of sight threatening eye disease. I tell my patients the worse time to see me is when they can’t see!
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Dermatology Consultants 434.847.6132 | Lynchburg www.lynchburgdermatology.com
DAVID WILSON, MD
Taking care of your skin as you mature is as important as other preventive health measures you pursue. This includes protecting your skin from the sun’s ultraviolet rays with protective clothing (broad brim hats, long sleeves and pants) as well as daily use of broad spectrum sunscreen. In addition, regular exams of your skin – both self-exams and those by your skin care professional – are recommended by the American Academy of Dermatology. For more information, visit www.aad.org/public/spot-skin-cancer.
June Marks Men’s Health Month
Men’s Health Chart Dermatology
Optometry
Urology
Primary Care
Centra Medical Group â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Bedford Bedford | 540.586.7273 www.centrahealth.com
DANIEL BRELAND, MD
Men over the age of 18 should have a yearly physical exam. The United States Preventive Services Task Force provides preventive recommendations that are catered to oneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s specific age. A screening blood pressure should be obtained. A healthy blood pressure is at least less than 140/90. Labs should be obtained at certain intervals, including cholesterol panel, blood glucose, etc. Immunizations are reviewed and offered. Psychiatric screenings are obtained. These are just a few of the many preventive options offered at an annual physical. Prevention is at the heart of primary care and scheduling an annual physical exam is one way of preventing disease.
Centra Medical Group Urology Center Lynchburg | 434.200.5297 www.centrahealth.com
ROBERT COOK, MD
Prostate cancer screenings include a PSA blood test and prostate examinations. Men, ages 55 to 69, benefit the most from screenings. The American Urological Association recommends shared decision-making for men, ages 55 to 69, considering PSA screening. Intervals for rescreening should be individualized. Although PSA screenings are not recommended for men under 55, African American men or men with a positive family history should engage in shared decision-making and proceed based on individual preferences. While routine screenings are not recommended in men over 70 years old, men in excellent health with a life expectancy of 10 to 15 years past 70 may benefit.
Gastroenterology Associates of Central Virginia Lynchburg | 434.384.1862 www.gastrocentralva.com
JENNIFER BROWN, RN
Knowing your risk factors to any disease can help guide you into the appropriate actions, including changing behaviors and being clinically evaluated or monitored for the disease.
It is recommended that men (and women) have a colon screening every ten years beginning at age fifty. Patients with a second or third degree relative with colon cancer or colon polyps are considered average risk. However, patients with one or more first degree relatives (mother, father, or sibling) with colon cancer or colon polyps are at high risk and should begin screening at age 40 or 10 years prior to the age that a first degree relative was diagnosed. Typically, a colonoscopy is repeated every three to five years for those at higher risk. Other high-risk factors include personal history of colorectal cancer or adenomatous polyps, inflammatory bowel disease causing pancolitis or longstanding active colitis. African Americans are diagnosed with colorectal cancer at a younger age than other ethnic groups and are recommended to begin colorectal cancer screening at age 45 rather than 50.
Gastroenterology
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Holistic Natural Health OBSERVE • PROGRESSIVE • OPEN-MINDED
words | JENNIFER LAMONT
As temperatures warm up, the summer sun casts a brighter light on our health and wellbeing. Shedding the lighter clothes, and perhaps a little winter weight, we move outdoors to enjoy life and all that summer offers. Being as healthy as possible during the summer makes it easier to tolerate the heat and just have more fun.
“Any kind of chronic condition in your body is going to be exacerbated by high blood sugar because your body is trying to compensate for that and you produce more inflammatory mediators.” Rick Lee, MD A board-certified anesthesiologist practicing integrative medicine at the Blue Ridge Chronic Pain Center in Lynchburg
A natural, healthy diet and adequate hydration complement proper sleep hygiene and ‘sunsense’ this season. These 12 habits are easy, natural ways to improve your diet, sleep and skin, while protecting your overall health during the summer and all year long. In Virginia, a third of all adults are pre-diabetic, according to the Virginia Department of Health. More than ten percent of the population in Lynchburg and the surrounding area has diagnosed diabetes, while 30 percent are obese. The natural foundation of our health begins with the food we eat. Physicians recommend eating a whole food diet low in sugar and processed carbohydrates.
So, Drop the Sugar. It doesn’t help that in the hotter, thirstier days of summer people tend to consume more sugary drinks on top of the unhealthy amounts of sugar already present in their diet. Reducing or, even better, eliminating refined sugar is necessary for both diabetics and non-diabetics alike. Rick Lee, MD is a board-certified anesthesiologist practicing integrative medicine at the Blue Ridge Chronic Pain Center in Lynchburg. He says, “Any kind of chronic condition in your body is going to be exacerbated by high blood sugar because your body is trying to compensate for that and you produce more inflammatory mediators.” That applies to healthy people as well because chronically high blood sugar produces inflammation in everyone. Because reducing inflammation is the key to improving health, Dr. Lee’s approach is to teach his patients how to learn to decrease inflammation in their body on their own. “The way you do that is through diet, exercise, stress management, sleep hygiene and experiencing joy in life,” he says.
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Holistic Natural Health
Improving your diet is the first place you can start. Here are three easy ways to eat a healthier diet and less sugar over the summer:
TIP 1: Make healthy substitutions.
Exchange sugary beverages, including sports drinks, with plain water and unsweetened drinks. Pay attention to labels on food and drinks. Sugar has at least 61 different names used in food labeling and some of them are tricky.
TIP 2: Switch 3 for 3.
•
Replace 3 servings of grains, potatoes or cereal each day with 3 servings of water-based vegetables and berries, like dark leafy greens, broccoli, cucumbers and blueberries.
12 Easy, Natural Ways to Get Healthy This Summer
TIP 3: Break up with breads. Reduce or cut out simple, refined carbs including processed bread, sweets and cereals. Up your intake of protein and healthy fats. Talk to your doctor to find out how much protein is right for you.
Doing even one of these steps each day will help you reign in sugar intake, and may even help you drop weight over the summer. Consistent movement and exercise help control blood glucose levels and reduce inflammation in the body as well. Certain supplements can help reduce blood sugar and lower inflammation levels. Dr. Lee doesn’t usually recommend more than three supplements at a time, and those vary by patient depending on their situation. He recommends that patients seek out the advice of a trained herbalist if they want to go all natural in their approach. Always discuss supplements with your physician before taking any supplements, especially if you are already on medications or taking other supplements. Two potent nutrients that fight inflammation are:
A
TURMERIC WITH BLACK PEPPER: Turmeric, the golden yellow spice flavoring curry dishes, contains a compound, curcumin, which has been shown in many studies to exert potent anti-inflammatory properties. It’s best taken with black pepper to improve bioavailability. Be mindful about taking with coumadin, blood thinners or other medications, or before a medical procedure.
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OMEGA-3 FISH OIL: Controlled studies show that fish oil is also a potent antiinflammatory that can be as effective as NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory) in reducing pain in arthritis sufferers.
STAYING HYDRATED This Summer
A good rule of thumb for most people is to drink about half of their body weight in ounces. Another easy way to remember is to drink at least one cup every hour.
Dr. Lee says patients may also benefit from a clean, high-quality multivitamin and magnesium. But when it comes to controlling inflammation, he emphasizes that the body creates more, or less, of an inflammatory cascade when it’s injured or “insulted” depending on what else is happening in the body. An insult can be a stressful event, poor diet, bad sleep habits and even a lack of joy. So, a person can make more or less of this inflammatory cascade depending on their current health, lifestyle and psychological wellbeing. “If you look at disease processes, they’re the result of these inflammatory mediators,” says Dr. Lee. “Even cancer, the root cause is inflammation, because the immune system is out of whack.” He educates patients on reducing inflammation by eating a natural, whole foods diet, mediating stress, getting quality sleep and creating joy in their lives.
Stay Hydrated to Stay Healthy – and Younger. Part of a healthy diet is getting enough clean water. Not only is it damaging to your skin, studies show chronic dehydration can actually lead to diabetes and other chronic conditions www.OurHealthLynchburg.com
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Holistic Natural Health
• PROGRESSIVE
like heart disease and obesity. Dehydration, which isn’t always obvious, can turn into an acute emergency in the summer. Symptoms can sneak up on a person even if they don’t feel thirsty. Further, staying hydrated aids in weight loss while improving cognition, physical performance and immune function. It fights inflammation, wrinkles and premature aging inside and out.
TIP 4: Find your optimal amount.
Drink enough water for your body weight. A good rule of thumb for most people is to drink about half of their body weight in ounces. For example, a 160-pound person would drink 80 ounces, or 10 cups. Another easy way to remember is to drink at least one cup every hour.
TIP 5: Replenish water stores. Drink more water to replace lost water through exercise, perspiration and heat from the sun. Even if you’re indoors or not exercising, your water needs go up in the summer.
Sleep More. Really.
GETTING ACTIVE
Sleeping well is one of the most important elements in getting healthy. It’s tough to resist staying up later on longer summer days, but quality sleep is imperative for both physical and mental health. Practicing good sleep habits helps keep your hormones and circadian (sleepwake) cycles balanced, which keeps you healthier. Sleep deprivation is associated with an increased risk of insulin resistance, diabetes, cardiovascular disease, depression and obesity.
This Summer
TIP 6: Entrain your brain.
Go to bed and wake up at the same time each day. This creates harmony in your sleep-wake cycle and makes it easier for you to fall asleep and wake up in the morning feeling refreshed.
Even activity as little as a daily 20-minute walk, promotes deeper, more restful sleep at night.
TIP 7: Soak up the light. Enjoy the sunlight of summer days. As we get older, our bodies make less melatonin. Getting enough exposure to natural light during the day increases melatonin production at night and promotes a healthy sleep-wake cycle.
TIP 8: Let go of your digital device. Resist the urge to be on phones or tablets in the hours before bed. Many studies, including a recent one from Harvard, found that blue light emitted from digital screens suppresses melatonin production. Decreased melatonin not only impairs sleep, but impairs overall health as well. Avoid blue light exposure in the three or four hours before bedtime, or invest in blue-blocking glasses and apps such as f.lux to reduce blue light on digital devices in the evening. TIP 9: Exercise. Even activity as little as a daily 20-minute walk, promotes deeper, more restful sleep at night.
TIP 10: Try magnesium for a little extra help. If
you’re having trouble sleeping, magnesium can help you not only fall asleep, but stay asleep. Studies show supplementation improves sleep in elderly patients. Beyond that, magnesium plays a central role in the body because it’s necessary for so many diverse functions.
Magnesium-glycinate and magnesium-citrate are usually the most easily absorbed forms. You can also get magnesium from whole food sources including lightly steamed spinach and Swiss chard. Avocados, almonds and dark chocolate (in small amounts) are other good sources. 60
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Holistic Natural Health
Sun-sense: Myths and Must-Dos. The sun is not the enemy. In fact, you need it. It’s where you get your main source of vitamin D, which is immensely important to your health. The UVB rays from sunlight convert cholesterol found in your skin into vitamin D. However, as the general public has been taught to be afraid of the sun and wear UVB-blocking sunscreens, mass populations are now deficient in vitamin D. That translates to many healthcompromised individuals since every organ system in the human body requires vitamin D to function well.
TIP 11: The sun that’s right for you.
Making enough vitamin D depends on a few different factors, including the color of your skin and how much is exposed, time of day and where you live.
The lighter your skin, the less time in the sun you need. For example, pale skin only requires 15 to 20 minutes with full body exposure (for example, shorts and tank top and no sunscreen) to make 20,000 units of vitamin D. If the sun is high in the sky, it may not even take that long. On the other hand, someone with darker skin takes longer. Also, we don’t make as much vitamin D as we get older.
REDUCING
12 Easy, Natural Ways to Get Healthy This Summer
But balance is key. Letting the sun burn your skin causes DNA damage and increases your risk for skin cancer. Good ‘sun-sense’ means being smart about your exposure and making optimal vitamin D levels without the risk.
The key to
•
“What I know about my small group of study patients, including myself, is that if you get 10-20 minutes of sunshine a day, you’re healthier. Vitamin D is a complex thing to chase, but getting out in the sun is exactly what you need in a vitamin D sense,” says Dr. Lee. He explains that supplements are not ideal because the body is meant to use the sun biochemically to make vitamin D, not supplements.
INFLAMATION and improving health is through DIET, EXERCISE, STRESS MANAGEMENT, SLEEP HYGIENE
and experiencing joy in life. - Rick Lee, MD -
The time of day and the area where you live also dictates how much vitamin D you’ll make while you’re out in the sun. In the Lynchburg and surrounding areas, you can only get vitamin D from the sun during part of the year. So, while not as optimal as getting real sun, a vitamin D3 supplement and vitamin D-rich foods may help you get your levels up. There are also apps like D-Minder and others, which can tell you when to go outside and make vitamin D according to your exact location. Getting just enough sun each day during this summer will help your body store up reserves through the winter as well.
TIP 12: Protect your DNA.
Once you’ve started burning or turning red, your mechanism for converting vitamin D has shut off. At that point, you’re just creating DNA damage and upping your risk for melanoma. At that time, it’s best to start wear protective clothing. And, when it comes to sunscreens, the least ideal option are ones that block UVB, but not UVA. UVB is what helps you make vitamin D. UVA just causes skin damage, aging and an increased risk for melanoma.
Playing outside for several minutes each day—without getting burned—will keep us healthier than shying away from the sun and staying indoors. Getting outdoors, drinking enough water and eating a healthy diet makes summer all the more fun – and all the more healthy. And with so many chronic illnesses on the rise, these natural health tips will help protect your health during the summer and all year long.
EXPERT CONTRIBUTOR Rick Lee, MD with Blue Ridge Chronic Pain Center in Lynchburg
SOURCES American Diabetes Association (www.diabetes.org) Harvard Health Publishing (www.health.harvard.edu) National Center for Biotechnology Information (www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov) Virginia Department of Health (www.vdh.virginia.gov)
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Food Fitness NUTRITION • EXERCISE • PREVENTION
A FRESH TAKE ON
Summer
Grilling words | MICHELLE MCLEES, SPECIAL CONTRIBUTOR FROM THE AMERICAN HEART ASSOCIATION
The American Heart Association (AHA) recommends substituting chicken or fish for red meats since both have less cholesterol and saturated fat. Fattier fish, such as salmon and trout, also are high in heart-healthy omega-3 fatty acids. Firmer fish, like swordfish and tuna, hold up well and taste delicious on the grill.
Don’t Let Marinades Spoil Your Health! Grillers need to pay close attention to the marinade. Many pre-bottled marinades and barbecue sauces are high in sodium and added sugars like high-fructose corn syrup. An alternative to store bought marinades is to make your own with heart-healthy olive oil, spices, balsamic vinegar or lemon or lime juice. No need to add any salt.
Challenge Yourself: Eat by the
RAINBOW Try to eat a rainbow of fruits and vegetables like strawberries, blueberries, cantaloupe, kale, carrots and beets. Fruits and vegetables that are brightly colored are rich in phytochemicals, powerful disease-fighting substances.
CHECK OUT our Grilled Tequila-Lime Chicken with Grilled Asparagus recipe for a homemade marinade that is also excellent on lean pork and fish on page 63.
Serve Up Healthy Summer Sides In-season fresh fruits and vegetables, with their bright acidic flavors can become an ideal heart-healthy side or entrée during the summer when people crave something fresh and light to beat the heat. Look for vibrantly colored fruits and vegetables to assure you’re getting a full range of nutritious offerings. Try to eat a rainbow of fruits and vegetables like strawberries, blueberries, cantaloupe, kale, carrots and beets. Fruits and vegetables that are brightly colored are rich in phytochemicals, powerful disease-fighting substances. Portions are also important during a cookout. People may be relaxed at a family cookout, but they shouldn’t fill their plate with just cuts of meat, bread and potato chips. Make half your plate fruits and vegetables, one-quarter protein and one-quarter grain (preferably whole). HERE’S TO A HAPPY, GRILLING SEASON – the healthy way!
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Grilled
Tequila-Lime Chicken with Grilled Asparagus
A little dip in tequila brings mega flavor to these boneless, skinless chicken breasts. If you have mezcal on hand, consider substituting it for the tequila for a similar yet smokier touch.
INGREDIENTS: (4 Servings)
DIRECTIONS:
1/4
cup tequila
2
teaspoons lime zest
A
1/2
cup fresh lime juice (about 4 to 6 limes)
2
cloves garlic (minced)
Into a small bowl, add tequila, lime zest, lime juice, garlic, chipotle pepper, and adobo sauce. Add chicken into a large Ziploc bag along with the marinade. Seal the bag, place in the refrigerator, and let marinate anywhere from two to 12 hours.
1
tablespoon minced canned chipotle pepper
B
2
tablespoons adobo sauce
To cook, prepare the grill to medium-high heat. Coat the grates with nonstick cooking spray before lighting grill.
1 1/2
lb. boneless, skinless chicken breasts
C
3
bunches asparagus spears, ends removed
Snap the bottom inch off each asparagus and discard ends. Add asparagus to a large dish, along with 1/4 teaspoon salt, 1/4 teaspoon pepper, and oil. Mix to combine.
1/4
teaspoon salt
1/2
teaspoon pepper (divided)
D
2
tablespoon canola oil
Remove chicken from marinade, discarding the marinade and wiping most of it off the chicken. Season chicken with 1/4 teaspoon pepper. Place on the grill; cook until chicken is done, about eight to 12 minutes and registering 165 degrees F on a meat thermometer. Transfer to a plate and cover with foil.
E
Add asparagus to the grill, placing asparagus spears in the opposite direction of the grates (or alternatively, use a grilling basket). Grill until tender, about seven minutes.
F
Serve the asparagus with the reserved chicken.
COOKING TIPS: When alcohol is the part of a marinade, be careful when cooking. On the grill or on the stovetop, there can be a potential flare up from the residual alcohol. Keep it healthy. Consider making extra of this dish to create an easy lunch for a few days. Simply chop it up and mix into couscous for a salad, incorporating a variety of ingredients like chopped tomatoes and cucumbers. Don’t soak meat too long (more than 24 hours) in marinades with a large amount of citrus, like this one. Otherwise, the meat can begin to breakdown and turn mushy.
NUTRITION FACTS: Calories 337, Total Fat 12.2 g, Saturated Fat 1.6 g, Trans Fat 0.0 g, Polyunsaturated Fat 2.8 g, Monounsaturated Fat 5.7 g, Cholesterol 109 mg, Sodium 500 mg, Total Carbohydrate 14.6 g, Dietary Fiber 7.0 g, Sugars 6.7 g, Protein 43.6 g Recipe copyright © 2016 American Heart Association. This recipe is brought to you by the American Heart Association’s Simple Cooking with Heart ® Program. For more simple, quick and affordable recipes, visit heart.org/simplecooking.
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Creamy
Spinach Feta Dip
This recipe is almost guaranteed to make any spinach “disliker” change his or her mind for sure.
INGREDIENTS: (6 Servings)
DIRECTIONS:
10.5
oz frozen, chopped, packaged spinach
1/2
cup fat-free yogurt
A
Cook spinach according to package directions and drain in colander (press with fork to drain completely).
1/2
cup reduced-fat sour cream
1/2
cup fat-free feta cheese (crumbled)
B
Combine all ingredients in a bowl and mix well. Refrigerate for one hour and serve with pita slices.
1
teaspoon garlic (minced, from jar)
1/3
cup fresh, chopped parsley or dill
NUTRITION FACTS: Calories 54.2, Total Fat 0.4 g, Saturated Fat 0.0 g, Trans Fat 0.0 g, Polyunsaturated Fat 0.2 g, Monounsaturated Fat 0.0 g, Cholesterol 0.0 mg, Sodium 1.3 mg, Potassium 0.0 mg, Total Carbohydrate 13.4 g, Dietary Fiber 2.3 g, Sugars 9.9 g, Added Sugars 0.0 g, Protein 0.8 g. Calcium 0.0 mg
OR 2 tsp dried parsley or dill 1/2
teaspoon black pepper
6
whole-wheat pitas (quartered)
Recipe copyright © 2016 American Heart Association. This recipe is brought to you by the American Heart Association’s Simple Cooking with Heart ® Program. For more simple, quick and affordable recipes, visit heart.org/simplecooking.
5 HEALTH BENEFITS OF SPINACH A Healthy source of FIBER
B Loaded with POWERFUL ANTIOXIDANTS
C Packed full of VITAMINS
D Contains a high concentration of Potassium
E Helps boosts your METABOLISM
Source: Livestrong
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Strawberry
Lemonade Italian Ice
This fruit-centric, healthy dessert is a great frozen treat that can be made without the use of an ice cream machine.
INGREDIENTS: (6 Servings)
DIRECTIONS:
1 1/2
lbs. ripe strawberries (stemmed, halved)
3
tablespoons lemon juice
A
2
tablespoons granulated sugar
Trim and remove the stem from each strawberry; cut each one in half. Add strawberries into the bowl of a food processor or a powerful blender.
5
cups ice
B
In a small bowl, add lemon juice and sugar. Mix together until sugar is mostly dissolved. Add into the food processor or blender; blend until strawberries are pureed.
C
Add in all the ice; puree until mixture is entirely smooth and all the ice has been blended.
D
Pour into a 9-inch by 13-inch baking dish and freeze for 30 minutes. Use a spoon to scrape along the edge of the dish, pushing those outer frozen chunks into the middle of the dish. Use back of the spoon to spread Italian ice into an even layer. Freeze another 30 minutes and repeat process. Lastly, freeze for 1 more hour.
E
Remove from freezer and use a spoon to scoop Italian ice into cups to serve.
COOKING TIPS: Any fruit you desire can be substituted for the strawberries, like 1 1/2 pounds mango, peaches, or pineapple. Keep it healthy. The riper and sweeter the strawberries are, the less sugar that will be needed. Taste a strawberry and slowly decrease the amount of sugar depending on the berry’s sweetness. If the Italian ice doesn’t get eaten all at once, spoon it into a large Ziploc bag and place flat in the freezer. To eat, let it thaw on the counter for at least 15 minutes. Break it up with a spoon to return it to the Italian ice consistency.
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NUTRITION FACTS: Calories 54.2, Total Fat 0.4 g, Saturated Fat 0.0 g, Trans Fat 0.0 g, Polyunsaturated Fat 0.2 g, Monounsaturated Fat 0.0 g, Cholesterol 0.0 mg, Sodium 1.3 mg, Potassium 0.0 mg, Total Carbohydrate 13.4 g, Dietary Fiber 2.3 g, Sugars 9.9 g, Added Sugars 0.0 g, Protein 0.8 g. Calcium 0.0 mg Recipe copyright © 2016 American Heart Association. This recipe is brought to you by the American Heart Association’s Simple Cooking with Heart ® Program. For more simple, quick and affordable recipes, visit heart.org/simplecooking.
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Beauty CONVICTION • EXPRESSION • CONFIDENCE
PLASTIC SURGERY
is in VERY GOOD SHAPE words | RICK PIESTER
The American love affair with plastic surgery is alive, well, and becoming increasingly intense. According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, there were about 17.5 million INVASIVE PROCEDURE: (NOUN) medical-speak for oldfashioned surgery, any kind of surgical or exploratory activity in which the body is pierced by a device or instrument, such as a scalpel.
MINIMALLY INVASIVE PROCEDURE: (NOUN) surgical techniques that limit the size of incisions needed and so reduce healing time, associated pain and risk of infection.
surgical and minimally invasive cosmetic procedures performed in the United States during 2017. The data, contained in the Society’s annual release of statistics, show a two percent increase in activity overall, compared to the previous year. Moreover, the advent of new minimally invasive procedures performed at less expense in less time, and the increased acceptance of cosmetic procedures, particularly through social media, has produced an increase of nearly 200 percent in the number of these types of procedures since 2000.
Plastic Surgery in Lynchburg Becoming More Commonplace Many, but not all, of the national trends in plastic surgery are being mirrored in Lynchburg and Southside Virginia, according to local providers. “It’s much more commonplace for people of all ages and all economic backgrounds to care about their appearance and to be able to do something about it,” says Henry Wilson, MD, a plastic surgeon with the Centra Medical Group Plastic Surgery Center in Lynchburg. “The move to minimally invasive procedures,” he notes, “with less expensive and more quickly done options have made our work more accessible and more socially accepted.” Dr. Wilson’s colleague, plastic surgeon Keith Pitzer, MD, agrees. “Of course, some people are still private about their surgery,” he notes, “but a lot of the barriers have come down. In part, it’s a result of social media, the culture of sharing, but also the wider acceptance of our work is because plastic surgery is not a new thing anymore.”
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Beauty •
Of the almost 1.8 million procedures during 2017 that required “traditional” surgery, here are the top five (including the price range for each procedure, with
Plastic Surgery is in Very Good Shape
costs provide by the Centra Medical Group Plastic Surgery Center):
A
BREAST AUGMENTATION:
intended to enlarge or change the shape of the breasts: 300,378 procedures nationally. Local costs: $5,000 – $6,000
B
LIPOSUCTION:
to remove excess body fat: 246,354 procedures nationally. Local costs: $3,500 – $7,500 (depending upon the number of areas of the body to be treated.)
C
RHINOPLASTY (NOSE JOB):
to alter the shape of the nose: 218,924 procedures nationally. Local costs: $3,200 – $7,000
D
BLEPHAROPLASTY:
eyelid surgery to lift sagging eyelids or “bags” under the eyes: 209,571 procedures nationally. Local costs: $3,500 – $6,000
E
TUMMY TUCKS:
also known as abdominoplasty, to remove excess fat and skin and, creating an abdominal profile that’s smoother and firmer: 129,571 procedures nationally. Local costs: $5,800 – $7,200
Women in Lynchburg More Conservative When it Comes to Breast Enhancement Surgery Patients in the Lynchburg area depart from one major trend in plastic surgery — the move to smaller breast implants than women had been getting before; but not for the reasons you might suspect. Compared to other areas of the country, Central Virginia women have not been getting the oversized, ultra-noticeable Hollywoodcaricature breast implants. “My experience has been that women here have always been pretty steadily conservative,” Dr. Pitzer notes.
Breast Reduction Surgery Sees an Increase in Lynchburg Not appearing on the list of top five invasive procedures, but seeing a sharp increase in the number of procedures performed last year, breast reduction surgery is becoming highly rated for its almost immediate health benefits. www.OurHealthLynchburg.com
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Beauty •
CONFIDENCE
Centra Medical Group Plastic Surgery Center Physicians and Providers 1330 Oak Lane, Suite 100 Lynchburg, VA 24503 434.200.4350 434.200.4347 www.centrahealth.com/ plasticsurgery
Simon Hatin, MD
Many women with disproportionately large breasts have lived years suffering from issues related to the size of their breasts – things like back, shoulder, and neck discomfort, rashes under their breasts, and grooves from their bra straps digging into their shoulders. “It’s lifechanging surgery for many women,” according to Dr. Pitzer. “It’s one of those rewarding surgeries where women feel better almost immediately.”
Social Media Playing a Role in Acceptance of Plastic Surgery The more dramatic long-term shift in the plastic surgery field has been the increasing popularity of minimally invasive procedures, many of them focusing on the face. And here, social media seems to be playing an especially important role in both creating a desire for cosmetic surgery procedures, and illustrating for surgeons exactly what the patient is looking for. In fact, a Rutgers University surgeon recently published an article in the Journal of the American Medical Association Facial Plastic Surgery showing that “selfie” photographs distort subjects’ facial features and make the base of the nose look 30 percent larger than it really is. His impetus for the study? Patients showing him selfies as examples of why they wanted nose jobs. It’s got a name. It’s called “the selfie effect.”
The leading minimally invasive procedures in 2017 — 15.7 million performed in this country — along with local cost ranges provided by Centra plastic surgeons: A BOTULINUM TOXIN TYPE A:
the famous BOTOX®, is a safe, cosmetic form of the toxin that is injected to temporarily reduce or eliminate facial lines of wrinkles. It’s commonly used to treat frown lines, forehead creases, and crow’s feet near the eyes. 7.23 million procedures nationally | local price range: $240 – $650
B SOFT TISSUE FILLERS: for a smoother or fuller appearance in the face or lips 2.69 million procedures | local price range: $400 – $1,600 Keith Pitzer, MD
C CHEMICAL PEELS, with a solution applied to the skin to smooth wrinkles 1.37 million procedures | local price range: $85 – $500
D LASER HAIR REMOVAL to remove unwanted hair from various places on the body 1.1 million procedures | local minimal price: $75 (depending upon the number of areas involved)
E MICRODERMABRASION: Henry Wilson, MD, FACS
which employs an instrument to gently sand skin to
improve the complexion 740,287 procedures | local price range: $100 – $150
Choose a Surgeon Who is Certified in Plastic Surgery
Lindsay Painter, NP Scott J. Hawkes, CRNA
There’s a down side to this, however. Plastic surgery has become so popular that there are now a lot of non-plastic surgeons providing cosmetic work. Local surgeons are quick to advise folks to do their homework before electing any cosmetic procedure. “Always make sure that the professional you choose is board-certified by the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, that he or she is well-trained in the type of procedure you are looking for,” Dr Pitzer cautions. As with so many things in life, he says, “if a claim someone makes sounds too good to be right, it’s probably not right.”
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Beauty â&#x20AC;¢ Plastic Surgery is in Very Good Shape
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Aging Well WISDOM • DIGNITY • SUPPORT
EASE THE STRESS ON YOUR LOVED ONES: Do Your Estate Planning Now words |CATHERINE BROWN
If you have ever undergone the challenge of settling a poorly planned estate, you know firsthand the immense amount of time and energy it takes, especially if you don’t know all of the intricacies involved in estate planning. When her ex-husband Paul’s sister passed away in 2009, Ann Gorman spent two years contacting people and sorting through paperwork. At that point, Paul said to her, “Look at this mess…I don’t want anybody going through this when I pass away.”
“These highly individualized documents achieve two goals. You have peace of mind that what you want to happen will happen, and your relatives have peace of mind that they are doing what you wanted.” Ron Feinman, Esq. Law Offices of Ron Feinman in Lynchburg
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When Paul died a year and a half ago after a seven-year struggle with Alzheimer’s, things went much more smoothly, thanks to Paul’s consultations with attorney Ron Feinman. “Even with the advance planning, it’s a headache,” Gorman says, “but when we were coping with the sadness of Paul’s Alzheimer’s, we were able to focus on him, without fighting all the paperwork. I don’t worry about the future as we now have a customized plan in place for me and even for my daughter and granddaughter.” Like Paul and Ann, many of us understand the importance of estate planning and healthcare directives. But we might not realize there are significant benefits of early planning and working closely with an attorney who specializes in estate planning and elder law. Deciding early on who will inherit your property or assets is only one aspect of your estate. Healthcare and end-of-life plans can be a difficult conversation to have, especially if you’re trying to figure out your estate and finances on your own. But certain questions are vitally important to discuss. Do your relatives know what kind of end-of-life care you would like to receive? Can you afford long-term care?
OurHealth | The Resource for Healthy Living in Lynchburg and Southside
Aging Well
A Simple Estate Planning Checklist
Irrevocable Trusts for Asset Protection or a Special Needs Person Financial Power of Attorney Healthcare Power of Attorney Medical Information release Living Will
How Boilerplate Forms Can Harm Your Estate Plans
Ease the Stress on Your Loved Ones
Testamentary documents, such as a will and/or a revocable trust
•
When you are planning for retirement and then for death, an attorney can advise you and help you properly prepare necessary documents, including:
Regardless of your net worth, you
NEED TO HAVE A PLAN IN PLACE FOR YOUR LONG-TERM CARE
and to pass on as much of your estate as possible.
With so many legal forms available online, you might be tempted to fill them out and think you’re done. Feinman, who specializes in estate planning, elder law and asset protection, explains that an online document often does more harm than good. “Hidden in the law is a seamless web of overarching principles and doctrines that may impact that document, yielding unexpected results,” Feinman says. “The average person is unaware of
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Aging Well
• WISDOM
these without the benefit of years of studying and practicing trust and estate law, especially Elder Law.”
ESTATE PLANNING
INVOLVES EVERYTHING YOU HAVE AND EVERYONE YOU LOVE.
If that doesn’t warrant paying attention, I’m not sure what does. - Ron Feinman Esq. -
In addition, a vast array of legal strategies might apply to each person’s situation, and a skilled attorney can help determine which to use depending on the client’s age and life situation. “An effective estate plan should not include boilerplate documents,” says Feinman. “One size does not fit all.” For healthcare documents, Feinman takes a client through much more specific choices. “These highly individualized documents achieve two goals,” says Feinman. “You have peace of mind that what you want to happen will happen, and your relatives have peace of mind that they are doing what you wanted.”
Why You Need an Estate Plan – Especially If You’re Not Wealthy Many people feel comfortable with tax planning and don’t think twice about making charitable contributions and IRA contributions to decrease their taxes. Some are less likely, however, to plan their estate or implement asset protection planning for an extended nursing home stay. As Feinman explains, they are missing an opportunity to pass on as much of their estate as possible. While healthcare documents are vitally important for an incapacitating illness and end-of-life issues, asset protection planning helps preserve assets and ensures you have enough money for your own care and (ideally) to pass on to relatives upon your death. With proper planning you can avoid having to ask your children for support during an extended long-term care stay. Regardless of your net worth, you need to have a plan in place for your long-term care and to pass on as much of your estate as possible.
The 5 Times in Life When You Must Plan Your Estate Feinman recommends consulting with an attorney specializing in estate planning during the following pivotal times:
A When you graduate from college and are living on your own. B When you get married. C When you have children. READ THIS EDITION OF
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D When you near retirement. E When your healthcare needs change. Once you reach retirement age, it is important to work with an attorney who specializes in elder law and has experience planning for end-of-life issues. Although you may be tempted to postpone healthcare and estate planning, having a plan in place will enable family members to save time and energy sorting through your estate when you pass away. “Estate planning involves everything you have and everyone you love,” Feinman says. “If that doesn’t warrant paying attention, I’m not sure what does.” EXPERT CONTRIBUTORS Ron Feinman, Esq. with Law Offices of Ron Feinman in Lynchburg Ann Gorman, Client of Ron Feinman
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