Viera MD Fall 2015

Spa issue

Healthy Balance Healthy Patients

Bariatric Surgeon, Dr. Diego velarde

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9

ON THE COVER

10

CONTENTS

5 6 8 9 10 13 14 15 17 20 22 25 26 27

Spa issue

Fall

17

2015

App helps patients comparison shop for best care prices Letter from the Editor Community Calendar / Endorphin Source Preeclampsia Foundation wins grant Surfing surgeon balances work, family Health First Foundation awards scholarships Doctor joins uncle, cousins at Brevard Medical City Viera dermatologist treats double chins Relax & Renew — popular spa treatments RELAY FOR LIFE 2015-16 Kick-off Suntree-based health-plan doubles in size Here’s the Dish The Viera Medical Mile changes lives in more ways than one Catholic Charities benefits the homeless

4 | VIERA MD MAGAZINE

22 26

App helps patients comparison shop for best care prices SPECIAL TO VIERA MD

A

free mobile app for iPhones and Android devices lets people shop for the best prices for health care.

including his or her real-time account balances when applicable, and provide a comprehensive view of what consumers should expect throughout their course of treatment.

UnitedHealthcare’s Health4Me app allows users to review a range of estimated costs for more than 520 common medical procedures and services.

UnitedHealthcare is among the first national health care companies to enable all consumers to comparison shop for services using a “guest” version of myHealthcare Cost Estimator, a mobile medical price service available through Health4Me. Users can download Health4Me through the iPhone and Android apps stores. More than 1.5 million people already have downloaded the app, according to Craig Hankins, vice president of digital products for UnitedHealthcare.

Consumers using myHealthcare Cost Estimator can figure the cost of services throughout their course of treatment, from the time they first visit the doctor to the test or procedure, and through physical therapy or follow-up care. Cost information is based on local averages for each care path step.

For UnitedHealthcare plan participants, estimates are personalized to reflect an individual’s own health plan benefits,

VieraT ax

.com

Estimates are based on available fee schedules and actual contracted rates with care providers. When that information is not available, estimates are based on historical claims with the care provider.

“Giving consumers access to important medical cost information is improving transparency and making it easier for people to navigate the health care system,” said Yasmine Winkler, UnitedHealthcare’s chief marketing and product officer.

Health4Me is available from the App Store for iPhones and Google Play for Android devices. n

UnitedHealthcare’s Health4Me app allows users to review a range of estimated costs for more than 520 common medical procedures and services.

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Individuals Small Businesses VIERA MD MAGAZINE

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letter from the editor

From weather to health, sometimes change is good

H

appy Fall to all our readers across Viera, Suntree and beyond. It’s almost like Christmas on the Space Coast when November arrives and the baking temperatures give way to cooler, glorious weather. Why is it like Christmas? Because, as a friend of mine likes to say around this time, November in Brevard is a gift that pays you back for enduring the previous six months of the year.

And speaking of changes, Dr. Diego Velarde is a change-maker all on this own. This amazing surgeon gives the gift of life to patients plagued with obesity whose attempts to lose weight have proven impossible. He will be sharing the latest advancements in bariatric surgery research at Duran Golf Club in the coming months. See page 10, pull out your calendar and find out if this might be something for you or for a loved one.

There are risks, which have been greatly reduced with new techniques, but it’s still not a decision to be made lightly. For those whose reality is an otherwise high risk of death from health conditions exacerbated by critical obesity, it may be the ticket to a longer life.

On the topic of living longer and healthier lives, it is Viera MD’s tremendous honor to sponsor the Viera Medical Mile 5K & Fun Run, followed by the Family Fitness Fun Fair of Suntree on Saturday, Jan. 9. This is not only an opportunity to gain the support needed to turn over a new leaf for the New Year, it is a chance to meet some of the terrific doctors on the Medical Mile and those who network with them to provide a comprehensive array of services to all populations and ages.

Hats off to Viera MD publisher Jill Blue-Gaines, founder and CEO of Bluewater Creative Group for launching Bluewater Foundation, the charity hosting the Jan. 9 event. See page 26 for more about this public charity that will provide community education and partner with relevant publications and expos to fill gaps in the needs of charitable service providers and those they serve.

Mike Gaffey

vieramd.com Fall 2015 • Volume 2, Number 4

BLUEWATER CREATIVE GROUP 7630 N. Wickham Rd. Suite 105 Viera, FL 32940 242.1235

MANAGING EDITOR Jill Blue-Gaines

EDITOR Mike Gaffey

ART DIRECTOR/ COVER PHOTO Cory Davis

WRITERS Mike Gaffey • Katie Parsons George White • Linda Wiggins Marilyn Meyer © 2015 All rights reserved.

Bluewater Creative Group Inc. bluewatercreativegroup.com

A sister publication to Viera Voice.

All material contained in Viera MD print or electronic versions is strictly copyrighted and all rights are reserved. Duplication or reproduction of this magazine in whole or in part is prohibited without permission of Bluewater Creative Group, Inc. We cannot accept liability for omissions or typographical errors. Listings, feature articles or advertisements do not constitute an endorsement.

Opinions expressed are not necessarily those of the publisher. Viera MD is a free publication and is available at many Viera physician and other business offices.

Bluewater Creative Group Publications Pull-out Ballot Inside A14-A15

Newspaper of Viera & Suntree...........BLUEWATER CREATIVE GROUP OCTOBER 2015

VOLUME 9 ISSUE 9

Grand Prize: 4 LEGO LA Ticket ND s

vi e ravoice.com

Scarecrows are all about children

AWARD-WINNING NEWSPAPER

Oct. 1-15

HELP FOR

See page 35 Volume 19 Number 6

OF FLORIDA

October 2015

myseniorlife.com

Oct. 17 FEATURES

Exploration Tower is star of expo

Crowbot showcases VCS Robotics Page A22

VIERA HOSPITAL

NEPAL

EARNS FIVE STARS DR. TURCK

TACKLES NEUROPATHY

WMEL dials down and amps up Page 10

‘Green’ office?

That’s natural

DR. CHRIS EDWARDS BIOLOGICAL DENTISTRY PROMOTES GOOD HEALTH

Anti-bullying message moves middle-schoolers

One of the two children’s charities to benefit from the Viera Voice Scarecrow Stroll & Harvest Festival, Children’s Advocacy Center of Brevard team members Diane Scott, left, director Jeanie Raciti and Jamie Johnson craft the Advocate Angel.

SENIOR LIFE KEITH BETTERLEY

F

BY LINDA WIGGINS

irst responders have them on speed dial when a child is harmed.

It is the place a frightened, insecure youngster is received.

Primary colors and toys in the waiting room at the Children’s Advocacy Center of Brevard in Suntree provide a sense of normalcy to a childhood that is likely void of it.

In an effort to educate the community on the award-winning works of the

CACB and all its moving parts, Viera Voice selected it as one of two charities to benefit from the Scarecrow Stroll & Harvest Festival that culminates Saturday, Oct. 17 at The Avenue Viera’s Central Park. Readers can grab a pullout map and ballot in this issue of Viera Voice and go around to enjoy artistically creative scarecrows and schoolcrows posted across the greater Suntree/ Viera area from Oct. 1 to 15, vote for their favorite ’crow and enter the ballot for prizes, among them a four-pack of

tickets to LEGOLAND. As the charities are in secure locations, CACB’s crow will be hosted

by Take A Bite Cupcake at The Avenue Viera, 2270 Town Center Ave., Suite 119, and Devereux children’s residential school’s crow will be hosted at the Viera Discovery Center, 7350 Shoppes Drive, Suite 103, in front of the Viera Walmart.

6 | VIERA MD MAGAZINE VIERA VOICE 7630 N. Wickham Rd., #105

suckers!

Page A20

VIERA VOICE Cory Davis

Presort Std U.S. Postage

CHARITIES

continued on page A7

SENIOR LIFE Photo Courtesy of The Tree Frogs

Mike Chiello, left, and Tom Lee of The Tree Frogs will perform at the Senior Life Boomer Bash & Senior Expo Friday, Nov. 6 at the Exploration Tower at Port Canaveral.

Looking for things to do this month?

Check out the Calendar on B4

Flu Shots Now Available

BY LINDA WIGGINS The Tree Frogs will headline the Senior Life Boomer Bash & Senior Expo Friday, Nov. 6 at Exploration Tower at Port Canaveral featuring free entry to the tower for attendees 55 and older from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

not overplayed” classic tunes from the Vietnam era, mostly mid ’60s to mid ’70s.

“This is the stuff we grew up on,” Chiello said. They both have loved covering tunes by the Beatles, Crosby Stills & Nash, Neil Young, Simon & Garfunkel, Bob Dylan and the Rolling

best songs that evoke the memories and emotion of that magical and tumultuous time.”

The Tree Frogs are known for their tight harmonies and for playing authentic recreations of timeless songs and replicating the originals with just two guitars. They are living the dream

Leadership book gets four stars Page 21

So Long, Mosquito Relief in sight

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Community Calendar Weekly Events: Viera Community Center 2300 Judge Fran Jamieson way; 433-4891 Mondays, Wednesday and Fridays: Bootcamp for Adults, 8:30 to 9:30 a.m.

Tuesdays, Thursday and Saturdays: Shorin Ryu Karate, 5:30 to 7 p.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays, 10 to 11:30 a.m.

Saturdays Nov. 14: Junior League of South Brevard’s 31st annual Festival of Trees, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., The Courtyard at the Oaks, 1800 W. Hibiscus Blvd., Suite 108, Melbourne, benefiting the league’s projects Fueling Kids and Kids in the Kitchen; 610-8950 Nov. 14: Brevard Heart Foundation’s Casino Night – A Night in Monte Carlo medical scholarship fundraiser, 6 to 10 p.m., Suntree Country Club; 752-2742 Nov. 16: Multiple Myeloma Support Group, 6:30 to 8:30 a.m., One Senior Place, 8085 Spyglass Hill Road, Viera; 255-1181 Nov. 19: Eat, Drink and Be Healthy: A Holiday Health Seminar, 6 p.m., Radiantly Healthy, 150 Fifth Ave., Suite C, Indialantic; $25, 254-6803

Nov. 5: FIT Homecoming 5K, 6 p.m.

Meg O’Malley’s in downtown Melbourne information at runningzone.com.

Nov. 14: Turkey Creek 5K Trail Run 7:30 a.m. Palm Bay Community Center at Turkey Creek information at palmbayflorida.org.

Nov. 15: Space Coast Lightfest 5K 6 p.m., Wickham Park, Melbourne information at secure.runningzone.com/lightfest.

Nov. 26: Suntree Turkeytrot 5K and 10K Fun Run 8:30 a.m., Suntree Country Club; information at suntreeturkeytrot.org.

Nov. 29: Space Coast Marathon & Half Marathon 6 a.m., Riverfront Park, Cocoa; information at spacecoastmarathon.com.

Dec. 5: Run 4 the Future 5K EFSC Pavilion, Wickham Park; information at brevardschoolsfoundation.org Jan. 9: Viera Medical Mile 5K & Fun Fitness Fair 8 a.m, Spyglass Hill Road, Runningzone.com Submit upcoming calendar events to Partners@VieraMD.com

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C ATA R A C T A N D L A S I K C E N T E R

PREECLAMPSIA FOUNDATION AWARDED $22,500 GRANT

BY MARILYN MEYER

T

he Community Foundation for Brevard channeled a $22,500 grant to the Suntree-based Preeclampsia Foundation so it can provide information to researchers who are investigating one of the worldwide leading causes of death among pregnant and postpartum women and their babies.

The donation comes from the Kenneth R. Finken and Dorothy Hallam Finken Endowment Fund.

Preeclampsia, once called toxemia or pregnancy-induced hypertension, is a disorder that causes high blood pressure and other serious complications in pregnant and postpartum women and in unborn babies.

The grant will allow the Preeclampsia Foundation to continue funding its year-old Preeclampsia Registry. The voluntary registry already includes data on 2,100 women, said Eleni Tsigas, executive director. The online registry gathers self-reported and clinical information about the woman’s pregnancy history and about her family, while ensuring participants’ privacy.

The registry will provide both genetic and cardiovascular data to learn more about the long-term impact of preeclampsia on the health of women and their children, she said.

Already, researchers are making use of the data, Tsigas said.

The goal is to gather information from 10,000 participants.

Last year, the Preeclampsia Foundation started the registry, relying on a $30,000 grant from the Community Foundation of Brevard and upon fundraising events and peer-to-peer donations, Tsigas said. Many physicians, clinicians and researchers around the country are donating time and expertise to develop the registry, Tsigas said.

“These efforts will provide an enormous contribution to finding a cause of preeclampsia and to facilitating timely therapeutic intervention for both preeclampsia and cardiovascular disease,” Tsigas said.

Viera MD Linda Wiggins The national Preeclampsia Foundation based in Suntree, staff and volunteers pictured at an event earlier this year at The Avenue Viera, received a $22,500 grant through the Community Foundation for Brevard.

for Brevard, said that in addition to benefiting mothers and babies worldwide, the registry and subsequent research will lead “to a better understanding of the cause and treatment of cardiovascular disease in women.”

5 to 8 percent of pregnancies are affected by preeclampsia.

Symptoms include high blood pressure, protein in the urine, swelling, sudden weight gain, headaches and changes in vision. However, some women with the rapidly developing disorder report few symptoms.

-Source, Preeclampsia Foundation

Sandi Scannelli, president/CEO of the Community Foundation

Suntree For more Information or to register for the 5K, go to runningzone.com

Family Fitness Fun Fair

Jan. 9 VIERA MD MAGAZINE

|9

Healthy Balance,

Healthy Patients

B

BY GEORGE WHITE

ariatric surgeon Dr. Diego Velarde, 44, first learned how to keep balance in his life when he was a young boy standing on the beach in Lima, Peru watching his national champion surfer father.

hormone signals your body to eat and Leptin, the “stop” hormone, signals your body that you are full. Studies have found that obesity throws these hormones out of balance which is why many people that are significantly overweight or morbidly obese struggle to control their appetite and lose weight.”

And now he carries on that same tradition of maintaining balance that he learned as a child — as a parent, surgeon, and surfer. It also is a message he is passionate about passing on to his patients.

Following bariatric surgery, Velarde says he can see the difference almost immediately as the patients start their weight loss journey with almost guaranteed weight loss. With good lifestyle and eating choices, that dramatic change has a lasting impact on every aspect of their lives for many years to come, he said.

Velarde is a general surgeon on staff at Wuesthoff Health System who specializes in bariatric surgery. He is especially fond of being a bariatric surgeon because the procedures he performs can help his patients also achieve a profound balance with their daily eating habits for the betterment of their health and quality of life.

“Energy is the first thing. Even when they come to my office 10 days after surgery they tell me their energy is so much better.

After a year or two they are talking about being able to play with their kids or grandkids, they run a 5K, they run the causeway. It’s unbelievable,’’ he said.

Velarde has seen the need for bariatric surgery grow as the rate of obesity rises. The need for the surgeries is growing along with the rise in obesity, he said. One in 20 Americans, ages 21 and older, are now morbidly obese, a condition defined as having a body mass index (BMI) of 40 or more.

After training in general surgery, Velarde was impressed at the impact of bariatric surgery and decided to specialize further.

“I saw the results and the benefits. These patients were off their insulin the day after surgery and they never have to touch it again. I knew it was what I wanted to do for the rest of my life,” he said.

Reclaiming a life worth living Obesity is a serious disease that dramatically impacts quality of life and can

10 | VIERA MD MAGAZINE

In fact, multiple studies show that bariatric surgery can prolong life by as much as 10 years. lead to other health issues such as sleep apnea, diabetes, heart disease and stroke.

Velarde’s patients come to him for help after years of struggling to lose weight and keep it off.

“Many of my patients have tried, unsuccessfully, to lose weight through traditional methods. As you know, an important part of losing weight is diet.

We know from research that there are two hormones that play a large role in regulating our appetites; Ghrelin, the “go”

“One of the advantages is that the patients lose the weight and keep it off. You’re looking for long-term resolution for medical problems. We’re talking about becoming healthier,’’ he said.

“We have a whole team dedicated to bariatrics. I think, from the medical point of view, what we do today is just incredible. There are all these health problems that are associated with morbid obesity so when a patient loses the weight all these co-morbidities are resolved, which is amazing,’’ he said.

Once a rare procedure, bariatric surgery is more widely used because of the improvements in minimally invasive surgeries of all types.

“It’s gained acceptance because of the new technology. The change began with laparoscopic surgery and it has now advanced to robotic surgery. We perform procedures and generally the patients go home the next day. We see patients experience long-term success and greatly improved quality of life,’’ he said.

Velarde specializes in the transformation from obesity to obtaining a normal weight most commonly through a gastric sleeve that restricts food consumption. The other surgical methods are the lap band and the gastric bypass.

“This is for patients with a high BMI (Body Mass Index over 35) and patients that have medical co-morbidities associated with their weight. Bariatric surgery is the only treatment that has shown all those benefits,” he said.

The technique has changed little since 2005 but the procedure has improved with the use of the da Vinci robotic surgical system, he said.

“Robotic surgery is very precise; the 3-D features and the suturing ability is just amazing. Those are great advantages.

I do all my bypasses and many other procedures, including sleeves, robotically,’’ he said.

Other innovations on the horizon include a non-surgical gastric balloon and an endoscopic sleeve.

“The non-surgical options focus on trying to close the stomach from the inside so that it will have less capacity,” he said.

“Keeping everything as minimally invasive as possible, either surgically or otherwise, is going to be the best for the patient.”

“We look forward to seeing how the nonsurgical options pan out, but they will have to be as good or better than what we currently have before we introduce them as options to our patients,’’ he said.

“

Surfing is a sport that requires focus, balance and precision; as a surgeon, you need all of these same skills in the O.R.” — Dr. Diego Velarde Eating right and staying active Even with a high success rate, bariatric surgery success depends on important life style changes, he said.

“This is not an automatic fix. You still have to combine healthy eating habits, exercise, and behavior modification to be successful both in the short and longterm. We know that if the patient has the surgery and they follow the program guidelines, then they will lose the weight.

The key is changing the eating habits of the patient and staying active,’’ he said.

Velarde walks the walk when it comes to balancing his family, career and setting a good example for his patients.

His passion for family, and surfing, are a testament to his family-oriented upbringing, something he now makes a point of passing on to his kids.

Big waves along the beaches of Brevard this fall take Velarde back to Lima, Peru where his family also took the time to be with their kids. He carries his surfboard with him to work carefully wrapped in a cloth covering with the fins removed to keep them from being damaged during transit.

Velarde makes it a priority to spend time with his wife, Anna, and children Valentina, Sadie and Ian

national champion in Peru. Then I started (surfing) and never stopped,” he said.

Regardless of the sport or hobby, staying active while maintaining that delicate balance is key to a healthful life, even in stressful jobs, he said.

“Exercise helps me in different ways. First, it releases a lot of stress and keeps me focused and calm. In surgery you have to make

“In Peru, my dad surfed so I was always on the beach. He was a

Velarde was inspired to become a surfer by his father, a national champion surfer in Peru. pictured surfing in Indonesia VIERA MD MAGAZINE

| 11

Velarde will be speaking on advancements in bariatric surgery and different weight loss surgery options that are available at 6 p.m. on Thursday, Nov. 12 and Monday, Dec. 7 at Duran Golf Club, 7032 Stadium Parkway in Viera. To register for the informational presentations, call 800-522-6363 or go to Wuesthoff.com

fast decisions, exercise helps you stay centered and keep your cool,” Velarde said.

Applying the lessons from surfing back to the O.R. makes sense to Velarde and helps him more successfully live in the moment.

“Surfing is a sport that requires focus, balance and precision; as a surgeon, you need all of these same skills in the O.R.,” he said.

Teaching balance to the next generation Balancing life, weight loss, career and family, is a juggling act that takes a concerted effort over a lifetime, especially during the 18 years parents are most formative in their children’s lives, Velarde said.

But in all of it he makes time for his wife, Anna, and his three children, Valentina, 8, Sadie, 5 and Ian, 3, whom he insists on seeing at dinnertime whenever possible.

“I have a rule that at 6 p.m. I am on my way home and most of the nights I eat

Viera MD Cory Davis

Ashley Gomez, left, is Velarde’s bariatric coordinator for Wuesthoff Health System.

with them, unless I’m on call or in the O.R. Sometimes I have to compensate. I may have to work some Sundays at night, but I know if you don’t set some limits, I could be in the hospital until 8 p.m. or 9 p.m. every night,’’ he said.

There is enough time, if you take it, to have your priorities straight, take care of your family, excel in your career and maybe even catch a wave,” Velarde said.

Dr. Diego Velarde demostrates the operator console of the da Vinci Surgical System. He’ll discuss recent advancements and options available in weight loss surgery at 6 p.m. Nov. 12 and Dec. 7 at Duran Golf Club.

12 | VIERA MD MAGAZINE

“Listen, you’ve got to see your kids. You can catch up on paperwork another day. Everyone needs balance. I have my priorities very clear. We go to the beach almost every weekend. My daughter is learning to surf. Hopefully I lead by example,” he said.

For more information on weight loss surgeries, go to WuesthoffBariatrics.com. n

HeaLth First Foundation awards 40 nurses scholarships

BY MARILYN MEYER

F

orty nurses who work for Health First are getting educational boosts this semester, courtesy of scholarships from the Health First Foundation.

Connie Bradley

Each nurse is eligible to receive between $2,500 and $5,000 over two years, provided the individual continues to meet program requirements, according to Connie Bradley, chief nursing officer at Health First. The nurses must reapply each semester to maintain eligibility.

“These scholarships will allow our associates to expand their knowledge and skills,” said Bradley, who has a doctorate degree in nursing practice.

The foundation’s scholarship fund contributed a total of $152,500 for the 40 scholarships, Bradley said.

Seventy-three percent of the scholarships went to nurses working on their bachelor’s degrees in nursing and the rest went to nurses working on master’s degrees in nursing, she said. The nurses are enrolled at several regional and national institutions, including the University of Central Florida, Indian River State College and Keiser University, she said.

The scholarship program is an additional benefit over the Health First corporation’s tuition reimbursement program.

The corporation recently announced that it has doubled the amount of money qualified employees working on bachelor’s degrees in nursing may receive for tuition reimbursement. Fulltime employees may now receive up to $3,000 per semester and part-time employees, up to $1,500 per semester.

For full-time employees working on their master’s of nursing degrees, the reimbursement has increased from $4,600 per semester to $5,000 per semester. And for part-time employees working on master’s in nursing degrees, the reimbursement rate has increased from $2,300 to $2,500 a semester, Bradley said.

Health First performs first heart surgery alternative for 93-year-old patient

BY KATIE PARSONS Open-heart surgery is considered one of the riskiest procedures available. For elderly patients, the risk of morbidity is elevated.

Medical technology is seeking to mitigate this risk. In July, the Health First Valve Clinic team performed the first transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) surgery in Brevard County on a patient who was considered too high risk for traditional open-heart surgery. The procedure is less invasive because instead of opening up the entire chest, a catheter is used to repair the heart valve.

The patient was 93-year-old Frederick Blackman of Palm Bay, who suffered from severe, symptomatic aortic stenosis for the year and a half leading up to the surgery. The condition made him tired, and consistently low on energy. The life-threatening condition can also lead to sudden heart failure.

After speaking with his family about the TAVR option, Blackwell said he had confidence in being the first to undergo the procedure at a Brevard County location.

After a three-day stay at Holmes Regional Medical Center, Blackman returned home to recover and be with his wife. In the days following the surgery, doctors were pleased with the outcome and Blackman’s recovery outlook.

“The TAVR valve evolution opens up life extending and improving therapy to patients who were otherwise deemed not candidates for traditional surgery or high risk of major morbidity or mortality,” said Dr. Matthew Campbell, a Cardiothoracic Surgeon and founding member of the Health First Valve Clinic.

“Brevard has a particularly high elderly population and that is who this option is aimed at — to help extend life and improve quality.

Up until now, patients had to travel to Tampa, Jacksonville, Miami, and very recently Orlando, for the TAVR option.”

In order for patients like Blackwell to qualify for the TAVR procedure, they must be evaluated by two surgeons. Both surgeons must agree with the Federal Drug Administration and Medicare guidelines on being too high risk for traditional heart surgeries to qualify.

“The procedure does a good job of fixing the problem of aortic stenosis without having to undergo open heart surgery. It is being evaluated for lower risk patients, but that data is not out yet,” Campbell said.

“It is a new therapy, so we don’t have long term data like we do with the traditional surgery. Not all patients are candidates due to anatomical constraints of the valve itself.”

The Health First Valve Clinic has been in operation for two years and is housed in Holmes Regional Medical Center’s Heart and Vascular Center.

To learn more about the valve therapies that Health First offers, call the Valve Clinic at 321-434-VALVE (8258). n

The Health First Foundation recently awarded funding for nursing scholarships.

VIERA MD MAGAZINE

| 13

Dr. Gary Hardoon joins uncle,

cousins at Brevard Medical City

BY MIKE GAFFEY Another Hardoon has come to Brevard Medical City in Suntree.

Internist Dr. Gary Hardoon has opened a practice at Suntree Internal Medicine at 6619 N. Wickham Road, joining his uncle, Dr. Abe Hardoon, the brainchild for Brevard Medical City, and cousin, internist Dr. Scott Hardoon. Another cousin, Eric Hardoon of ME Site Works, is developing the project.

“I truly feel blessed to have family that’s already set this up for me, but it’s nice to come here and be so welcomed by not only them and their staff but by the community as a whole,” Hardoon said at a Sept. 19 grand opening and ribbon-cutting ceremony for Suntree Internal Medicine that was attended by about 100 people.

Dr. Gary Hardoon’s new practice is inside the 31,000-squarefoot new home for Suntree Internal Medicine, the anchor of his uncle’s 24.5-acre, all-encompassing medical “city” under construction on North Wickham Road at Pineda Court. Dr. Abe Hardoon bought the Wickham Road property with a plan of eventually moving Suntree Internal Medicine from its old location at 903 Jordan Blass Drive and surrounding it with other medical facilities.

The expanded center opened in June, offering a variety of medical services including physical exams, 72-hour glucose testing and glaucoma screening.

Dr. Gary Hardoon completed his residency at Orlando Regional Medical Center and had been practicing internal medicine in Orlando before moving to Brevard County.

“ORMC is a wonderful, bustling, great medical care facility, but it’s so nice to come over to Melbourne and see the same quality care being given at the outpatient center,” said Hardoon, who received his medical degree from American University of the Caribbean School of Medicine.

Dr. Abe Hardoon, holding black scissors, prepares for a ribboncutting ceremony during the grand opening of Suntree Internal Medicine, with Dr. Gary Hardoon, right.

14 | VIERA MD MAGAZINE

Photos by Mike Gaffey Dr. Gary Hardoon speaks at a grand opening and ribbon-cutting ceremony for Suntree Internal Medicine’s new office at Brevard Medical City in Suntree.

At Brevard Medical City, work is proceeding on the 15,000-square-foot Viera Diagnostic Center next door to Suntree Internal Medicine. It will be a second location for Viera Diagnostic Center, which also operates at 7000 Spyglass Court at Murrell Road.

Construction has started on the first of 22 professional condominiums at the complex, which will also feature a 90-bed, HUD-financed assisted-living facility. The facility will be named Chateau Madeleine after Dr. Gary Hardoon’s late grandmother.

It will be accessible from Brevard Medical City’s main entrance road, recently named Hardoon Lane.

“I think it’s wonderful,” Hardoon, who married his fiancée, Jackie, on Oct. 24, said of his family’s growing medical complex. “It’s a fantastic opportunity to be a part of it.”

For more information, call Suntree Internal Medicine at 321-259-9500 or go to suntreeinternalmedicine.com. n

Dr. Gary Hardoon, here with his fiancee, Jackie, has joined his uncle, Dr. Abe Hardoon, and cousin, Dr. Scott Hardoon, at Suntree Internal Medicine.

VIERA DERMATOLOGIST AMONG FIRST IN BREVARD TO OFFER DOUBLE CHIN TREATMENT

H

Dr. Anita Saluja

SPECIAL TO VIERA MD

ealth First dermatologist Dr. Anita Saluja is among the first Brevard County physicians trained to provide a new, nonsurgical treatment for patients with a double chin.

The injectable treatment, Kybella, uses deoxycholic acid, a naturally-occurring molecule that aids in the breakdown and absorption of dietary fat, to destroy fat under the chin known as submental fat. The Food and Drug Administration approved the treatment in April.

“Kybella is the first injectable that we have to treat a double chin and contour the jawline, said Saluja, who recently underwent training to administer the state-of-the-art treatment. “The best thing is that it is permanent. I am excited to bring it to Brevard as a service for our patients. My goal is always to give naturallooking results and put safety first.”

Submental fullness is a common, yet under-treated aesthetic condition that is often resistant to diet and exercise and

influenced by several factors, including aging, genetics and weight gain.

Patients receive Kybella injections during a 15- to 20-minute in-office session with Saluja. Up to six treatments can be administered, with many patients experiencing visible results in two to four treatment sessions spaced at least a month apart. Saluja customizes treatment to the patient’s aesthetic goals for an improved chin profile.

The most common side effects are swelling, bruising, pain, numbness, redness and hardened areas formed in the treatment area. In clinical trials, the incidence and severity of most side effects decreased with subsequent treatments.

However, Kybella can cause serious side effects, including trouble swallowing and nerve injury in the jaw that can cause an uneven smile or facial muscle weakness.

The drug has been the focus of a global clinical development program involving more than 20 clinical studies with more than 2,600 patients worldwide, of which 1,600 were treated with Kybella.

Saluja’s office is at 7125 Murrell Road in Viera.

For more information, call 321-757-5141. n

Dr. Gloria Rivera King, Ph.D. Licensed Mental Health Counselor, Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist

Se habla Español Evening & Saturday hours available

Thrive, don’t just survive the holidays this year by taking care of YOU. Call today!

Are you struggling with: • depression and/or anxiety?

• relationship/marital difficulties?

• LGBT issues?

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Let’s Talk!

Adult counseling services for individuals, couples, and families

321-956-9477 | Drgrking@me.com DoctorGloriaRiveraKing.com |

2328 Medico Lane, Melbourne 32940 – Northeast corner of Stadium Parkway and Wickham Rd. (Located inside the Orthopedic Center) VIERA MD MAGAZINE

| 15

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16 | VIERA MD MAGAZINE

Popular spa treatments — and their health benefits — explained

Relax & Renew

BY KATIE PARSONS

Facials Facials are the second-most common spa service, behind massage treatments. It turns out that making the time for this spa indulgence is actually really good for you, too. During a facial treatment, the dirt and dead skin on your face will be exfoliated away — resulting in healthier skin that looks great. The benefits of a facial last long after the initial treatment. With your freshest face forward, the other products you use on a daily basis for your skin like moisturizers will be better absorbed and will keep your skin looking healthy long after the facial takes place.

The first step in a professional-level facial is a skin consultation.

This is a good time to bring up any known skin irritations. The facial professional (most often an esthetician) will analyze the face through a special magnifying lamp to determine what issues the skin is experiencing and to help develop the best treatment course. Steam, exfoliation and extractions of blemishes are all part of the treatment too. A facial massage and facial mask are also part of the process, followed by a final application of products intended to keep the skin looking fresh and blemish-free for the long term.

People who are serious about rejuvenating the skin on their face should get facials once per month, or four times per year at a minimum. Sources: livestrong.com, spas.about.com

Reflexology Reflexology is a form of massage therapy that targets zones of the body through specific massage points on the hands and feet.

Reflexologists divide the body into 10 equal zones (five on the left, five on the right) and target areas of pain or tension that coordinate with points on hands or feet, or both. Practitioners believe that by applying pressure to specific reflex areas, energetic pathways are created that promote organ health, among other benefits.

In studies funded by the National Cancer Institute and the National Institutes of Health, reflexology was found to be effective in enhancing relaxation, aiding in healthy sleep habits and minimizing the damaging effects of anxiety and depression. A study published in Nursing Standard that followed 87 cancer

SPAS continued on page 18 VIERA MD MAGAZINE

| 17

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Relax & Renew

continued

patients also found that reflexology helped manage the side effects of the disease and treatment, including relief of pain, nausea, diarrhea or constipation. The patients also reported feeling a higher quality of life.

So what can you expect at a typical reflexology treatment? They usually last from 45 minutes to an hour and should never hurt. A reflexologist will begin by assessing where you are feeling pain or discomfort and then have you take off your shoes and socks, and sit in a comfortable reclining chair for the duration of the session.

Most people leave reflexology treatments feeling completely relaxed.

even report healing or reduction of scars and puncture wounds, and a reduction in stress, after a professional mud pack treatment.

So what is the secret to the healing powers of mud packs? Their strength lies in highmineral materials from around the world.

Mud packs commonly include mud from the Dead Sea that is mineral-rich with magnesium, bromide, silicates and calcium.

Mud packs are commonly used around the eyes, overall on the face and on the abdomen. A mud pack consists of a thin, muslin cloth with the mud inside that is applied to the affected area for 20 to 30 minutes.

Sources: cancer.org, ncbi.nlm.nih.gov

Source: naturopathycure.com

Salt/Sugar Scrub

Neuromuscular Therapy Massage

As skin ages, the rejuvenation process slows down, which can lead to a dull and dry skin appearance.

Exfoliation can speed up this process by removing dead skin cells and allowing the new skin to emerge more quickly than waiting for the natural process. Professional salt and sugar scrubs are ways to exfoliate and expose the healthy, new skin underneath. Both processes can be applied nearly everywhere on the body, but are most common on the face, hands and feet. If you are looking for more of a relaxation experience, a sugar scrub is the best option.

For deeper exfoliation, a salt scrub is ideal.

When created with salts from the Dead Sea, salt scrubs contain as many as 80 minerals to benefit the skin. Epsom salts used in scrub treatments have been proven to flush toxins and reduce inflammation of the skin. Salt scrubs have also been found to have antiseptic properties and can fight against infections, and itching.

Seek a sugar scrub if: • You have sensitive skin. They are less abrasive than salt scrubs.

• I t is your first time trying either method. Sugar scrubs are softer on the skin.

Seek a salt scrub if: • You have acne or blemishes. The salt absorbs oil well.

• You want to treat skin problems like eczema or psoriasis.

• You are looking for pain relief from inflammation.

For a more concentrated approach to massage therapy to specifically relieve pain, seek out a neuromuscular therapy massage. This particular type of massage, also known as trigger point myotherapy, is recognized by the American Academy of Pain Management as a treatment for back pain from muscle strain or other soft tissue injuries. It can also be used on other parts of the body, including the head, jaw and legs. Practitioners of neuromuscular massage therapy use knuckles, fingers or elbows to apply alternating pressure for anywhere from 10 to 30 seconds in the areas of pain.

Neuromuscular therapy works, in part, by increasing blood flow at the area of pain and encouraging the muscle to let go of built up lactic acid through relaxation. When lactic acid is reduced, more oxygen floods the muscle and causes soreness to dissipate.

Understandably, at the beginning of a neuromuscular therapy massage, you may experience tenderness at the site of the pain but this should lessen as the massage goes on. It’s recommended to keep the massage practitioner informed of your level of pain throughout the procedure, so he or she can adjust to make you more comfortable. A professional neuromuscular massage therapist will not just encourage immediate healing, but will work to retrain the muscle to prevent future injuries.

Sources: beaumont.edu, spine-health.com n

Source: livestrong.com

Mud Packs Since ancient times, mud or clay applied to the skin has been used to treat a variety of ailments — from dry skin to gastrointestinal issues. Today natural mud treatments, called mud packs, continue to have many therapeutic purposes. Some mud pack treatments are cosmetic — like to tighten skin and soften wrinkles and lines.

Detoxification and circulation are two other reasons people seek out professional mud pack treatments.

Mud therapy has also been proven to reduce skin inflammation and bring relief to stiff joints. Some headaches therapies call for a mud pack band around the forehead for pain relief. Some people VIERA MD MAGAZINE

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RELAY

1

FOR LIFE 2015-16 KICK-OFF

2

1) Suntree-Viera relay for life executive committee Rick Morton, left, Daria Whitson, Dr. Lana Saal, Michelle Mason, Vimarie Monopoli and Susie Parente 2) Team Target captains Daria Whitson and Katy Prince 3) Survivor Mary Lou Stearns opening speech on ACS and Relay for Life 4) Rick Morton, chair person for Relay for Life Suntree-Viera 5) Dr. Lana Saal, board member American Cancer Society 6) Team Target 6

3

20 | VIERA MD MAGAZINE

4

5

Board Certified Ophthalmologists Mukesh Aggarwal, M.D. Nicholas Pefkaros, M.D. Omar Kazi, M.D. Craig Cole, M.D.

FIRST in Brevard to provide BLADELESS CATARACT LASER SURGERY

Mukesh C. Aggarwal M.D.

Nicholas Pefkaros M.D.

Omar M. Kazi M.D.

Craig Cole M.D.

Now offering patients a customized laser cataract procedure with unparalleled precision and exceptional comfort.

The Catalys Difference

• Customized procedure using advanced 3D imaging • Gentler and easier cataract removal • Bladeless correction for Astigmatism • Faster Recovery Time • Multi-focal lens implants to decrease dependency of eyeglasses for new/intermediate long distance vision • Most Patients experience a quicker and more comfortable recovery

WHY TRAVEL TO ORLANDO FOR LASIK WHEN YOU CAN GET THE BEST IN BREVARD? Free Transportation for Brevard County Welcoming Craig Cole, MD

Board Certified Ophthalmologist • Graduate of Purdue University & Indiana University Medical School • Residency in Ophthalmology at Indiana University Hospital • Interests include comprehensive ophthalmology, bladeless cataract surgery, cataract surgery including premium lens & laser technologies, dry eye, glaucoma and diabetes

CALL TODAY TO SCHEDULE A FREE CONSULTATION MERRITT ISLAND FT-0000525064

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321- 266- 3896 MELBOURNE

232 S. Wickham Road Melbourne, FL 32904

www.youreyeclinic.com VIERA MD MAGAZINE

| 21

Suntree-based health-plan giant’s regional growth means boon for Brevard

BY LINDA WIGGINS There’s a reason more parking lots have been added to the Health First Health Plans administration building in the Suntree area on U.S. 1 north of Suntree Boulevard.

There are a lot more people working there.

The reason for the expanded use of the peach colored, two-story complex nestled in a forest overlooking the Indian River Lagoon is the explosive expansion in health plan Viera MD Linda Wiggins services to Florida Hospital.

Dr. Peter Weiss, tapped by Florida Called Florida Hospital Hospital to replicate the Health Care Advantage, the health First Health Plans system, ended plan now covers more than up doubling its size instead.

64,500 members in Volusia and Flagler counties, including Florida Hospital’s employees.

It is administered by Health First Health Plans out of the local complex, adding above-average income jobs to the area.

22 | VIERA MD MAGAZINE

That nearly doubled the size of the health plan, which has 68,000 members in Brevard and Indian River counties for a total of 132,500.

The goal is to gain economies of scale to lower plan costs and increase the variety of programs offered, said Jamie Forrest, vice president of Florida Hospital Care Advantage at Health First Health Plans.

“In this time of change in the health care industry, we need always to be looking at ways of reducing costs. This allows us to continue to do that as we continue to grow, yet not reduce offerings, but increase them.”

Coming in January 2016, Florida Hospital Care Advantage will offer individual health plans through the Marketplace, also referred to as the Affordable Care Act. Health First Health Care has offered the individual plans in Brevard and Indian River counties, with 10,000 members.

What attracted Florida Hospital to Health First is that it is a fully-integrated health care delivery system, Forrest said. It not only has everything from prevention and wellness to acute care and rehabilitation, but it has the health plan that covers it all, she added.

“That’s what they were looking for,” Forrest added. “We have the Health First Pro-Health & Fitness Centers provided as part of the service for health plan members because it saves us

Viera MD photo courtesy of Health First

Jamie Forrest, vice president of Florida Hospital Care Advantage at Health First Health Plans at the peach colored complex on U.S. 1 north of Suntree Boulevard, said more expansion is coming, inside and outside of Brevard.

money for members to stay healthy, but we have the hospitals should they need them.”

Long-range goals call for even more growth. Health Plans was expanded to Hardee and Highlands counties in January, 2015.

It serves the large Rosen Hospitality Group of Orlando-area hotels. The goal is to grow in the 12-county I-4 corriodor until encompassing the Tampa area, coast to coast.

Forrest also anticipates more growth in Brevard itself, where the health plan started in 1985, as continuous changes in the Affordable Care Act combined with lowered costs make it available to more families.

The expansion to Florida Hospital was initially intended as a replication, rather than expansion.

Former Health First health care administrator Dr. Peter Weiss was hired by Florida Hospital to replicate the Health First Health Plan. After putting together a recommended outline on the steps involved and the cost it would take, Florida Hospital decided not to reinvent the wheel, but buy into Health First Health Plans.

“Florida Hospital is excited to partner with Health First to better care for those we serve,” said Melbourne Beach resident Weiss, who still commutes to work from Brevard.

He was named president of Florida Health Care Advantage but recently moved back into a role that allows leadership of health care services.

“Their experience in health insurance and care integration will be very valuable as Florida Hospital works to achieve the ‘triple aim’ in healthcare — improved patient experience, improved health of our community, and reduced per-person cost of care.” n VIERA MD MAGAZINE

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GAAB is hosting its Sixth

Benefiting

Nana's House children & the Devereux teens Enjoy a champagne holiday brunch at the magnificent riverfront estate home of Steven and Valerie Karas. Glance at the stunning festive Christmas tree collection throughout the home and a fabulous holiday display of nutcrackers and gingerbread collectibles.

Cost: $25 in advance or $30 at the door. Additionally, please bring a teen appropriate gift or giftcard for Devereux teens.

Date: December 13, 2015 Time: Noon - 2:30pm Where: 3600 Riverside Dr. Indialantic, Fl 32903 RSVP: Gaab.info@yahoo.com Sponsorships welcome

Gift Certificates Available

Are you a healthcare provider on the Viera Medical Mile?

Our local families want to meet you!

Lunch & Dinner Cruise

Cruising the beautiful waters of the St. Johns River from Historic Downtown Sanford

 Entree Selections  Table Service

 Live Entertainment  Charters Available

 Full Bar Aboard  Group Rates

321-441-3030

433 N. Palmetto Ave., Sanford, FL 32771

www.stjohnsrivershipco.com Mention this ad to redeem a $3voucher.

No cash value. Restrictions apply. Ask reservationist for details.

This promotion may be cancelled at any time.

24 | VIERA MD MAGAZINE

W

hether you are located on Spyglass Hill Road between Murrell Road and Baytree Boulevard, or are a vital part the healthcare continuum across Brevard that makes The Mile complete, our families want to meet you.

Would your team like to hand cups of water to thirsty runners on the Jan. 9, 2016 Viera Medical Mile 5K and proudly display your banner? Or host an exhibit table at the Family Fitness Fun Fair?

There is a place for you!

Call 321-242-1235 or go to VieraMD.com

HERE’S THE DISH Florida Refrigerator Pickles INGREDIENTS 3 large Florida cucumbers, seeded and cut into small wedges 1 Florida bell pepper, sliced (your favorite color)

Baked Apple Slices This recipe provides 1.5 fruit and vegetable servings per person.

INGREDIENTS 2 oranges 2 Tbsp honey ¼ tsp ground cinnamon ¼ tsp ground cloves 3 Granny Smith apples, peeled, cored, and cut into ½-inch slices 5 Tbsp raisins ¼ cup chopped walnuts, divided ¼ cup vanilla yogurt, low-fat

1 Tbsp dry Italian seasoning 4 to 6 cups cider or rice wine vinegar Kosher salt and fresh ground pepper to taste 2 to 4 small mason jars with lids, or any other food storage container

METHOD Add cucumber, bell pepper and Italian seasoning to a mixing bowl and season with salt and pepper. Mix to combine spices.

Add cucumber mix to several jars or food containers. Pour the vinegar over to cover completely.

Put the lid on and let marinate in the refrigerator for two days.

Source: freshfromflorida.com

Yield 4 servings Serving size: 1½ cups

METHOD Preheat the oven to 500°F. Grate the zest of one of the oranges and set aside.

Squeeze the juice from both oranges into a small bowl. Stir the honey, cinnamon, cloves, and half the zest into the juice.

Lay half the apple slices in a glass baking dish. Scatter the raisins and 2 tablespoons of the walnuts on top. Pour on half the juice mixture and top with the remaining apples and juice.

Combine the remaining 2 tablespoons of walnuts with the orange zest and scatter over the top.

Cover lightly with foil, and bake 30 minutes or until the apples are soft and the juices, bubbly. Serve warm or cold with a dollop of low-fat vanilla yogurt.

Each serving provides: Calories: 206 Total fat: 6 g Saturated fat: 1 g

Carbohydrate: 41 g Sodium: 13 mg Fiber: 4 g

2 OFF a sub, chip

$

and drink purchase Suntree Firehouse Subs location only. With coupon.

Expires 1/31/16. Not to be combined with any other offer.

7640 N. Wickham Rd., Suite 112 • 321-253-9998

Kids Eat Free Wednesday & Sunday

(2 Free Kids Meals per Medium Sub Combo)

10:30am-9pm Mon-Thurs & Sun, Fri & Sat 10:30am-10pm Rcipe courtesy of health.gov VIERA MD MAGAZINE

| 25

The Viera Medical Mile changes lives in more ways than one

BY MIKE GAFFEY

O

ver the years, the telephone number for Viera Voice and Senior Life newspapers and now Viera MD has been placed on speed dial at charities across Brevard for assistance in helping those less fortunate. Ultimately answering that hotline has been CEO Jill Blue-Gaines of Bluewater Creative Group publishing, marketing and expo/events firm.

You say a family will take in a sibling group if they can get a set of bunk beds donated? Let me make a phone call or two.

Can we place a free ad publicizing your fundraiser, or write an article raising awareness of the population you serve? Let me check for available print space that is as precious as gold.

In order to better meet the needs of charities and those they serve, Blue-Gaines is starting a 501(c)(3) public charity called Bluewater Foundation, Inc. to bridge gaps in community services and provide direct community education. She will be the volunteer board president.

“There is only so much we can do if we are going to also run a successful business that allows us to provide community benefit with our abundance,” Blue-Gaines said. “This is a way we can do what we do well — inform the community of the needs of those less fortunate and spotlight leaders and programs providing solutions — and invite the community’s investment and participation in the solution. Often this will mean the generosity of our advertisers who care about the community.”

fulfill them. It’s a dream come true to get to write and also to get to feel like I am making a difference by expanding the capacity to serve those in need,” Wiggins said.

Bluewater Foundation’s mission is to support families who take in or adopt children, or animals, including stewardship of wildlife.

The first official Bluewater Foundation event will be the Viera Medical Mile 5K & Fun Run, followed by the Family Fitness Fun Fair of Suntree Saturday, Jan. 9. Blue-Gaines first coined the term Viera Medical Mile in the 2014 edition of Viera MD, and now her plans to showcase this special medical area are rolling out.

In addition to cheering on runners and providing cool cups of water as they run along the Medical Mile route starting at 8 a.m., area medical providers will have a chance to host booths and sponsor exhibits and attractions at the Fitness Fair until 1 p.m., featuring live music, healthy-food trucks, bounce houses for children and an obstacle course for young adults to seniors.

For more information, or to register for the Viera Medical Mile 5K, to be an event sponsor or to secure exhibit space, go to VieraMD.com. n

Viera Voice and Senior Life writer Linda Wiggins will help launch the charity as the Community Resource Coordinator for Bluewater Foundation, Inc. “Jill is very quiet about all she does in the community, but all of the groups know, and they know well, what she does,” Wiggins said.” Many times you may see ads in our papers and assume they are paid, but in fact they are donated and she hasn’t even bothered to put her logo at the bottom, as is a traditional requirement of media sponsors.

“Over time, I have come to know the issues that matter in her heart of hearts and it is an honor to be tapped to help her

VIERA MEDICAL MILE 5K COURSE MAP FINISH START

26 | VIERA MD MAGAZINE

5th Annual Homeless Heart Christmas Concert Tour

December 7, 2015

Fill your heart with the gift of giving Your concert ticket and/or sponsorship will help support homeless and emergency family services

Maureen McGovern “The Morning After” maureenmcgovern.com

Florence LaRue of the 5th Dimension “Up Up and away” florencelarue.com

Freda Payne “Band of Gold” fredapayne.com

Monday, December 7, 2015 – 7:30 PM Maxwell C. King Center for the Performing Arts (Also known as The King Center) –3865 N. Wickham Road – Tickets on Sale 10/16/15

Venue ticket pricing: $35 General Seating $50 Preferred Seating $70 Orchestra Seating Special “Meet & Greet” Reception: $25 per person/tickets required Box Office tickets: Online tickets:

321-242-2219 www.kingcenter.com

*Sponsors receive entry to VIP Reception with performers & VIP seating.

Performance venue tickets have an added convenience charge.

To learn about the special “Meet and Greet” reception or for more information, please visit:

www.HomelessHeart.org VIERA MD MAGAZINE

| 27

ATTEND A HEALTH FIRST HEALTH PLANS

Medicare Advantage Plan Seminar

Find out about our plans!

To reserve your seat and get a $10 gift card call toll-free 1.877.904.4908 or TDD/TTY relay 1.800.955.8771.

We’re available seven days a week from 8 am to 8 pm. *One gift card to all Medicare eligibles who RSVP and attend a seminar with no obligation to enroll in the plan.

$10 Gift Card

1.877.904.4908 myHFHP.org

Health First Health Plans is an HMO plan with a Medicare contract. Enrollment in Health First Health Plans depends on contract renewal.

This information is not a complete description of benefits. Contact the plan for more information. Limitations, copayments, and restrictions may apply. Benefits, premiums and/or co-payments/co-insurance may change on January 1 of each year. You must continue to pay your Part B premium. A sales person will be present with information and applications. For accommodation of persons with special needs at sales meetings, call toll-free 1.877.904.4908 or TDD/TTY relay 1.800.955.8771. The provider network may change at any time. You will receive notice when necessary. Only one gift card to Medicare eligibles who RSVP and attend a seminar with no obligation to enroll in the plan.

Y0089_EL4720 Accepted 08042015