nah now! spring 2016

VOLUME 1, ISSUE 4/SPRING 2016

FLAGSTAFF MEDICAL CENTER • VERDE VALLEY MEDICAL CENTER • SEDONA CAMPUS • CAMP VERDE CAMPUS

Exercises for improving your golf swing

Expert in the house: preventing skin cancer

12 spring cleaning tips for a healthier home

4 ways to make the most of your meds

ALSO INSIDE: Investing in wellness

Northern Arizona Healthcare’s new Camp Verde Campus is building healthier communities

Robert P. Thames

Our mission at Northern Arizona Healthcare is to improve the health of the communities we serve. How we do this is by figuring out the healthcare needs of each community. The Northern Arizona Healthcare Camp Verde Campus, featured in this quarter’s magazine, represents our commitment to meeting your needs.

About two and a half years ago, we went to the residents of Camp Verde and asked them what they needed in the future in order for us to be their choice. Focus groups and community forums produced evidence that our services and care providers were valued in the community. In fact, they wanted better access to the great care they had come to expect and appreciate.

Community engagement continued throughout the duration of the project. The original proposal went back in front of the focus groups for feedback. Patients were asked to tour Styrofoam exam room models and tell us which layout best suited their needs. The community joined us when we broke ground at the new site on the corner of State Route 260 and Finnie Flat Road.

Now, we invite Camp Verde and the surrounding communities to join us as they see their dreams realized. We will host an opening celebration on Friday, June 10, followed by a month-long speaker and tour series featuring the experts residents will now have access to at the expanded campus. For more information, see the story on page 4.

I hope to see you there.

Robert P. Thames, F.A.C.H.E., F.H.F.M.A.President and CEONorthern Arizona Healthcare

Northern Arizona Healthcare NOW!

Communications Department1200 N. Beaver St.

Flagstaff, AZ [email protected]

Richard A. Smith, Ed.D.Vice President of NAH

Development & Communications

Trista MacVittie, M.H.I.Director of NAH Communications

Editorial and productionContributors:

Kerry Bennett, M.A.Angela Lyons, M.B.A., C.Ph.T.

Sean OpenshawSophia Papa, M.A.

Sarah Sabalos-Gruber, M.Ed.

Designer:Trevor Roberson

Photographer:John Burcham

Northern Arizona Healthcare is creating healthier communities by providing wellness, prevention and medical care through Flagstaff Medical Center, Verde Valley Medical Center,

Verde Valley Medical Center – Sedona Campus, Northern Arizona Healthcare – Camp Verde

Campus, Northern Arizona Healthcare Medical Group – Flagstaff, Verde Valley Medical Clinic, the Cancer Centers of Northern Arizona Healthcare,

Northern Arizona Healthcare Orthopedic Surgery Center, EntireCare Rehab & Sports Medicine, the Bariatric Surgical Weight Loss Clinic, the

Heart & Vascular Center of Northern Arizona – Cottonwood, the Sleep Center, Guardian Air and

Guardian Medical Transport. We also provide comprehensive imaging, laboratory and pharmacy

services throughout the region. Many of the services we provide receive major funding through

the NAH Foundation, including Fit Kids of Arizona, The Taylor House and Valley View Care.

To learn more about Northern Arizona Healthcare, visit NAHealth.com.

This publication in no way seeks to serve as a substitute for professional medical care.

Consult your physician before undertaking any form of medical treatment or adopting any exercise program or

dietary guidelines.

Copyright© 2016 Northern Arizona Healthcare.All rights reserved.

Printed on recycled paper.

Northern Arizona Healthcare Board of Directors

Chair – Charles MarrVice Chair – Alice Gagnaire, R.N.

Andrew Aldridge, M.D.Rick CranmerJames DormanWilliam JeffersRichard KruseShawn Orme

Kenneth Salce, M.D.Ray Selna

Rob Thames, NAH President and CEOGuadalupe Woodson, F.N.P.

AdministrationRob Thames

NAH President/CEOMarilynn Black

Chief Information Officer and Vice President ofSystems IntegrationChris Clarke, R.N.

Vice President of NAH Physician Group

Amy Gottschalk, M.D.Vice President and Chief Medical Officer,

Flagstaff Medical CenterRon Haase

Chief Human Resource OfficerSusanne Maiden, R.N.

NAH Interim Administrator and Chief Nursing Officer, Verde Valley Medical Center

Richard Neff, M.D.Interim Chief Medical Officer,

Flagstaff Medical CenterRick Peterson

Vice President of NAH Professional & Support ServicesRichard (Rick) Smith, Ed.D.

Vice President of NAH Development & CommunicationsFlo Spyrow

Executive Vice President and Chief Administrative Officer, Flagstaff Medical Center

Jeffrey TreasureVice President, Chief Financial Officer

Katy Wilkens, R.N.Vice President and Chief Nursing Officer,

Flagstaff Medical Center

VOLUME 1, ISSUE 4, WINTER 2016

Cover storyInvesting in wellness: Northern Arizona Healthcare’s new Camp Verde Campus is building healthier communities

9 Nutrition in Northern Arizona

10 Foundations for health

12 Health by the numbers

14 Expert in the house

15 New and innovative at NAH

4

New building opens in Flagstaff to house Guardian operations and NAH Transfer Center

orthern Arizona Healthcare recently completed construction of a new two-story building at 1901 N. Gemini

Road in Flagstaff to house the growing operations of Guardian Medical Station 52, the Guardian Communications Center and the NAH Transfer Center.

Did you know?•In2015,GuardianMedicalTransport,NorthernArizona Healthcare’s emergency ambulance transport service, logged more than 11,000 transports, including more than 3,500 basic life support transfers and 7,500 advanced life support transfers. •Duringthesameperiodoftime,GuardianMedicalTransport dispatched more than 19,000 calls, including more than 1,300 calls from local fire departments.•GuardianAir,NorthernArizonaHealthcare’semergency helicopter transport service, logged nearly 2,500 transport flights in 2015, including 89 made in conjunction with GMT in its shared Critical Care Unit.

N

In this issue…

Inside NOW!

VOLUME 1, ISSUE 4 / SPRING 2016

15

9 10 12

14

hen the new Northern Arizona Healthcare – Camp Verde Campus

opens for business in early summer, the organization’s commitment to the

future of the community is clearly evident in every detail of this state-of-the-art

medical facility.NAH’s decision to build the new campus was not made

lightly. Rigorous research and strategic planning went into the project to ensure the facility would meet the needs of the growing area, comprised of many Verde Valley communities.

Built on a wellness model of care delivery, the facility was also designed to meet Northern Arizona Healthcare’s complex goals. As the industry shifts from a reactionary approach to healthcare to an approach that focuses on prevention and wellness, NAH must continually improve the health of the communities it serves while reducing operating costs in an increasingly competitive regional market.

New facility features enhanced and expanded servicesThe new, 26,000-square-foot facility at 1298 W. Finnie Flat Road is nearly triple the size of the existing structure at 460 W. Finnie Flat Road. Although it offers the same services as the existing facility, the community will benefit from many enhancements and expansions, including:• A new, state-of-the-art primary care suite, which offers expanded capacity and extended hours of operation. Verde Valley Medical Clinic – Primary Care will be open in the new building from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday through Friday and from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. • An expanded clinical suite for EntireCare Rehab & Sports Medicine, three times as large as the space in the existing facility, including a new rehab gym enabling

Investing in wellness: Northern Arizona Healthcare’s new Camp Verde Campus is building healthier communities

staff to offer physical, occupational, speech and aquatic therapy – the first EntireCare location to offer aquatic therapy in the Verde Valley. The suite also includes a number of private treatment rooms, which enables therapists to see more patients and reduces wait times for appointments. An outside courtyard specifically designated for sports rehab will enable EntireCare to continue its support of Camp Verde High School athletes, as well as other athletes of all ages.• Imaging services featuring expanded hours of operation and the latest X-ray technology.• Laboratory services will continue to be offered, including a draw

Wby Kerry Bennett, M.A. and Sophia Papa, M.A.NAH Communications

4 Northern Arizona Healthcare •

Northern Arizona Healthcare • 5

Investing in wellness: Northern Arizona Healthcare’s new Camp Verde Campus is building healthier communities

station on site. The lab will send specimens to VVMC for processing, which means most results will be delivered to the ordering physicians the same day. • Eye health services and an in-house optical shop, which will soon move from the Verde Valley Medical Clinic in Cottonwood to the new location.• An office for the Community Care Network, which provides support to help patients successfully transition home from the hospital.• Diabetes education services provided by Sue Simbric, R.N.

• Centralized registration in the main lobby, designed to make the process faster and more efficient.

• An on-site helipad to accommodate safe transport of critical and trauma patients from local EMS responders via medical helicopter to VVMC or FMC, a service provided by Northern Arizona Healthcare’s Guardian Air as well as several other regional transport companies.

The Camp Verde Campus was designed by architectural, engineering and planning firm Hammel, Green and Abraham- son and built by contractor Kinney Construction Services.


Voice of the community helps shape new facility design and offeringsThe most important factor influencing the design of the structure and the services offered, however, was the voice of the community. After conducting a series of focus groups and community forums in 2013, Northern Arizona Healthcare took the concerns of the Camp Verde community to heart.

“Listening is the key to meeting someone’s needs. Throughout this process, NAH asked and listened to the community and used this knowledge to shape our plans for the future,” said NAH President and CEO Rob Thames, F.A.C.H.E., F.H.F.M.A.

Below are the most visible ways in which NAH has addressed community concerns while planning and building the facility.

Community members asked for…

Outdoor shady spaces and views of the red rocks and white hills

A walking trail

Food and beverage options

Easier and more efficient access to services

Extended hours

Larger exam rooms

Improved therapy services and a rehab gym

More providers and visiting specialists

More attention – community members expressed the feeling that Camp Verde took a “back seat” to Cottonwood facilities

In response to the community’s request…

NAH planted approximately 120 indigenous trees on the cam-pus. All landscaping is sustainable, drought-tolerant and was approved by the town of Camp Verde.

NAH built a half-mile walking trail, which is illuminated in the evenings and is open to staff and community members.

NAH purchased a food cart offering beverages and snacks, which will be stationed in the main lobby and staffed by volunteers.

NAH has made patient flow more efficient. Camp Verde exam rooms are set up so patients enter in one door and providers enter through another door located on the opposite side of the exam room. This minimizes wait times for patients while protecting patient privacy.

NAH has expanded the hours of operation for the primary care clinic, which is now open from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday through Friday and 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Saturday and Sunday; same-day appointments are now available for many patients as well, depending on insurance plans.

NAH designed the new primary care suite at Camp Verde to feature 12 exam rooms and two special procedure rooms. The rooms are more spacious; and each room has a printer and computer to eliminate time wasted leaving an exam room to pick up orders or prescriptions.

NAH expanded the EntireCare Rehab & Sports Medicine suite, which features a new rehab gym, therapy pool and outdoor sports rehab area.

Several providers from specialties including orthopedics, cardiology, endocrinology and neurology will be visiting Camp Verde on a regular basis.

The new facility shows NAH’s willingness to invest in the community while preserving Camp Verde’s small town feel.

Architectural rendering of the Camp Verde Campus provided by HGA.


“We look forward to offering aquatic therapy as an option for our patients not only for injury prevention and management, but also sport enhancement and performance for our local athletes.”– David Castillo, P.T., M.P.T., A.T./L., lead physical therapist at EntireCare Rehab & Sports Medicine in Camp Verde

Camp Verde Campus History• 1988: The Arizona Health Center at Camp Verde opens, offering primary care and laboratory services. • 1998: NAH announces plans for a new $2 million healthcare facility in Camp Verde. A groundbreaking ceremony takes place on Dec. 2 for the new 8,000-square-foot facility. • 1999: The health center is dedicated in December.• 2009: Property at site of new building purchased.• 2013: A series of focus groups are held to determine the needs of the communities NAH serves.• 2014: NAH holds the Camp Verde Project Public Open House in May at Cliff Castle Casino to unveil building plans. The ground receives a ceremonial blessing by a Native American medicine man in October.• 2015: Construction begins in January. NAH holds a groundbreaking ceremony in March.• 2016: Northern Arizona Healthcare – Camp Verde Campus opens to the public in early summer.

EntireCare to offer aquatic therapy in Camp VerdeAquatic therapy can be used for multiple diagnoses to take weight off the body through the buoyancy provided by the water. Diagnoses may include osteoarthritis; chronic pain; post-surgical, once incision is healed; bariatric patients; and others. The pool can also be used by the athletic population for

injury prevention and management of acute injuries. Movement in the water provides resistance for strengthening and cardiovascular benefits, and the hydrostatic pressure of the water can help with swelling. All EntireCare therapists will be able to provide aquatic therapy.

From left: Tera Chambers, Camp Verde lab assistant; ophthalmologist David Deutch, M.D., who will be moving from Cottonwood to Camp Verde; Jessica Salterberg, Camp Verde lab assistant; osteopath John Rooney, D.O., Camp Verde primary care provider; David Castillo, P.T., M.P.T., A.T./L., lead physical therapist at EntireCare Rehab & Sports Medicine at Camp Verde.

Help us celebrate!The public is invited to our opening celebration scheduled for Friday, June 10, at 5 p.m.Free lecture series

Beginning Wednesday, June 15, the new Camp Verde Campus will host a series of free lectures and tours from 5 to 6 p.m. in celebration of the new center. Lectures will feature specialists whose services are available at the campus:• Wednesday, June 15: Allen Boyd, M.D., orthopedic surgeon and medical director of the Joint Replacement Program at VVMC; orthopedic surgeon Brian Duggan, M.D.; and Jon Cook , P.T., manager of EntireCare Rehab & Sports Medicine • Wednesday, June 22: John Rooney, D.O., physician with Verde Valley Medical Clinic − Primary Care• Wednesday, June 29: David Deutch, M.D., ophthalmologist with Verde Valley Medical Clinic − Ophthalmology• Wednesday, July 6: Sandra Rubio, endocrinologist with Verde Valley Medical Clinic


New imaging equipmentThe Imaging Services Department at Camp Verde installed a new, high-end digital X-ray machine, with features that enable technicians and radiologists to:

• Achieve the best image quality in the shortest amount of time.

• Find the fastest and safest possible way to position patients for scanning, ensuring consistency in every exam.

• Eliminate unintentional movement by only reacting to human touch.

• Produce high image quality with lower doses of radiation.

• Protect themselves and patients from repeat exposures.

• Deliver enhanced image quality and consistency.

• Deliver increased image detail.

• Reduce waiting time for patients.

• Store images on a CD for continuity of care.

Whenever a healthcare organization expands its offerings – especially in a rural setting such as Camp Verde – the community benefits from economic growth, not just during construction but because of the additional infrastructure the facility represents to developers and builders. NAH engaged local construction company Kinney Construction Services of Flagstaff to

build the new facility. KCS employed other local suppliers to fulfill the contract.

As part of the project, NAH is also paying for a quarter-mile extension of public utilities – gas, water and electricity – which in effect expands the infrastructure within the Town of Camp Verde.

NAH contributes to economic growth throughout region

“It has been very encouraging that NAH has not only planned on a continued presence, but also an improved presence in the Verde Valley. This is bringing additional access to the healthcare system for many people who had to travel to seek treatment, at times under difficult circumstances. By offering additional access to healthcare at a more localized level, NAH is stimulating economic interest from other investors to our area. Quality healthcare is the mission of NAH, and in my view, the added benefit of economic benefit to our communities is welcomed and appreciated,” commented Town of Camp Verde Mayor Charles C. German.

“The growth of NAH in Flagstaff has benefited this city in many ways. We have more physicians, nurses, office staff, office rentals, medical supply sales, etc. This means our healthcare money is staying in town. The growth also means our residents rarely need to go out of town for medical care, which results in less money being spent on travel and hotels and much more convenience for our citizens. Most importantly, the caliber of care at hand means our emergency care is not two hours away,” said Flagstaff Mayor Gerald W. Nabours.

“I am looking forward to the continuing growth and development of Northern Arizona Healthcare in the Verde Valley, not only for the valuable services they offer to Verde Valley communities, but for the economic development and diversity that is a natural result. Healthcare is a good fit in so many ways, including good jobs and sustainable economic activity,” said Sedona Mayor Sandy Moriarty.

“Verde Valley Medical Center in Cottonwood is the city’s largest employer, paying excellent wages that put more dollars back into the local economy. VVMC adds to the quality of life, not only for the professionals and support staff, but the entire region. When VVMC built a four-story addition, the organization planned to accommodate future growth and provide needed medical services to the area. The expansion provided jobs and enhanced the construction economy. VVMC’s investment in top-of-the line medical equipment enables residents to obtain excellent medical services close to

home. Keeping health dollars in our community adds to the viability of our economic system and enhances our quality of life,” said Cottonwood Mayor Diane Joens.

Charles C. German

Gerald W. Nabours

Sandy Moriarty

Diane Joens


Nutrition in Northern Arizona

uanita Marlette, R.D.N., clinical dietitian at Verde Valley Medical Center, shares some wisdom about the healing powers of culinary herbs and spices.

For centuries, herbs and spices have been used in recipes and poultices by traditional healers around the globe. Think of your grand-

mother making a batch of chicken soup when you had a cold; steeping a cup of herbal tea with lemon and honey to soothe your sore throat; or putting a mustard pack on your congested chest.

Herbs and spices help intensify the flavor and the healing power of foods. Each contains nutrient-dense antioxidants and phytochemicals that help in the fight against certain diseases, including cancer.

Digestive aids• Mint has digestive benefits. Peppermint, especially, settles the stomach and relieves gas. Peppermint is also a gentle “bitter herb,” that is, one that aids digestion by stimulating bile production. Bitter herbs like endive, romaine lettuce, chicory leaves and dandelion can be used in salads; others, like horse radish, are good ingredients in sauces or dips. • Caraway helps relax the smooth muscles of the digestive tract. Seed extracts used in certain commercial herbal digestive aids, sometimes along with peppermint oil, have been found to improve chronic indigestion. Enjoy a small dish of caraway seeds with cheese, or sprinkle them into soups or stews.• Ginger works as an antispasmodic, soothing the stomach and stimulating digestion. It also relieves constipation, and may ease symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome. These benefits lessen with cooking, processing and storage, so enjoy ginger fresh or minimally cooked.

JThe healing powers of culinary herbs and spices

Juanita Marlette, R.D.

by Sarah Sabalos-Gruber, M.Ed.NAH Communications

• Cardamom, cumin and fennel seeds are powerful digestive spices.• Other helpful digestive herbs include dill, basil, rosemary, turmeric and cinnamon.

Antimicrobial partners• Thyme fights toxic bacteria, fungi and microorganisms, including those associated with food poisoning. Try marinating meats in thyme-laced seasonings for a few hours before cooking.• Fresh cilantro leaves and coriander seeds have been shown to combat salmonella bacteria. • Other antimicrobial herbs and spices include garlic, lemon balm, oregano and cinnamon.

Antioxidants• Oregano, cinnamon, cloves, basil, thyme, turmeric, sage and parsley are powerful antioxidants that counteract free radical damage to cells and tissues. Free radicals are said to contribute to many aging-related ailments.

Memory boosters• Sage and turmeric are said to be brain stimulants as well as antioxidants. They also have anti-inflammatory properties that may help allay degenerative brain diseases such as Alzheimer’s. • Other good memory herbs include garlic, ginger and rosemary.

Heart-healthy helpers• Fenugreek seeds reduce blood sugar; help the body excrete LDL, or bad cholesterol; and lower triglycerides. Fenugreek also acts as a blood thinner, so use it with caution if you are taking anticoagulants.• Ingesting a clove or two of fresh garlic daily over a long period may help prevent blood clots. Obtain your doctor’s approval if you are taking blood-thinning medications.• Other heart-friendly herbs: Onion, chives, juniper berries and ginger.

Did you know?• Herbs are the leaves or flowers of plants, while spices come from the bark, seed or root. Cilantro is an antibacterial herb while green, but a spice after it flowers – at which point it becomes coriander. • Herbs are potent, so it’s safest to use small amounts, particularly if you take certain medications that might not interact well. • To tell whether a herb or spice is still fresh, open a bottle without looking at the label and sniff. If you can’t identify it by the fragrance, it’s probably time to start fresh. Always buy herbs and spices in small amounts. • To make a good antimicrobial kitchen cleaner, combine 20 drops of tea tree oil mixed with 2 tablespoons borax, ¼ cup of lemon juice and 2 cups of hot water. Put all the ingredients in a spray bottle and shake before using.

Foundations for healthNAH Foundation special events

Need more information?Please call the NAH Foundation special events team at 877-527-5291.


June 20: Chicks with Sticks Women’s Golf Tournament presented by the Loven Family at Pine Canyon Golf Club in Flagstaff to benefit breast cancer education and research

July 16: Pepsi-Cola Taylor House Century Ride at Flagstaff Medical Center to benefit The Taylor House

Aug. 6: Machine Solutions Run & Walk for Kids at Fort Tuthill in Flagstaff to benefit the Children’s Health Center

Aug. 25: Holes for Heart Care Golf Tournament at Pine Canyon Golf Club in Flagstaff to benefit the Heart & Vascular Center of Northern Arizona — Cottonwood

Nov. 5: Fit Kids Fun Run at Riverfront Park in Cottonwood to benefit Fit Kids of Arizona

Dec. 3: Turquoise Ball presented by Forest Country Anesthesia at the High Country Conference Center in Flagstaff to benefit Trauma Services of Northern Arizona Healthcare

Upcoming events:

PEPSI-COLATAYLOR HOUSECENTURY RIDE2015

Join us at the Pepsi-Cola Taylor House Century Ride on July 16 This annual bike ride event supports Flagstaff Medical Center’s hospitality home, The Taylor House, which provides housing in a compassionate environment

for friends and families of patients receiving care at the hospital. Bike riders from all over the Southwest gather to enjoy scenic routes of 30, 45, 65 or 95 miles throughout the cool pines and red rock desert of Northern Arizona.

Don’t miss the Machine Solutions Run & Walk for Kids on Aug. 6

Machine Solutions Run & Walk for Kids supports the Children’s Health Center at Flagstaff Med-ical Center. This event helps raise essential funds for special-ty pediatric outpatient clinics that care for children with disabilities or chronic illness. Programs supported include Children’s Rehabilitation Ser-

vices; Safe Child, an examination and interview clinic for suspected victims of child abuse; and other pedi-atric subspecialty clinics and therapies. More than 90 percent of the children receiving these services are from low-income families who aren’t always able to easily access the care they need. This event, which is part of the Flagstaff Summer Running Series, is fun for all ages and fitness levels – participants can choose a 2K run/walk; a 5K run/walk; or a 10K run.

FUNRUN


Giving to the NAH FoundationThere are many different ways to contribute to the future of Northern Arizona Healthcare. Although contributions of any amount are needed and always appreciated, there are several other options that offer a variety of tax advantages and other benefits. If you’d like to explore these options for giving, contact us at one of our two locations – we’ll be happy to meet with you to discuss your plans and find the very best fit for your generosity.

NAH Foundation at Verde Valley Medical CenterStephanie [email protected]

NAH Foundation at Flagstaff Medical CenterJennifer [email protected]

Please fill out this form, detach and mail to: Northern Arizona Healthcare Foundation, 1200 N. Beaver St., Flagstaff AZ 86001

Name:

Address:

Phone number:

Email:

I would like to make a donation in the amount of $

__ I have enclosed a check payable to NAH Foundation.

__I would like to use the following credit card: ___MasterCard ___VISA ___AMEX ___Discover

Credit card number: _________________________ Expiration date: ______ Security code number:

Signature: ____________________________________________________ Date:

I would like my donation to be used as follows:

__ Area of greatest need FMC____ VVMC____

__ Other (please specify):

I am making this donation:

__In memory of (please provide name of loved one):

__In honor of (please provide name of caregiver or program):

__Please contact me to discuss other giving options

Healthy blasts for spring 2016

Health by the numbers


It’s springtime! The birds are chirping, the flowers are blooming and your house needs a wall-to-wall, top-to-bottom cleaning to reduce allergens like mold spores, pollen and pet dander; eliminate dust particles; and purge pollutants that have accumulated all winter. Sheila Fain, director of environmental services at Northern Arizona Healthcare’s Verde

Valley Medical Center, offers the following “dirty dozen” tips for a comprehensive nook-and-cranny spring scrubbing:1. Clean carpeting, throw rugs and welcome mats to flush out germs and bacteria that may be growing there.2. Change the air filters in your furnace/air conditioner – or clean them if they are reusable.3. Remove and wash air vent covers in hot water with dish detergent.4. Wash all curtains and window blinds using detergent or cleaning solution safe for the material. 5. While you’ve got the curtains or blinds down, wash the windows. 6. Clean window screens – you can find excellent instructions at howtocleanstuff.net/how-to-clean-window-screens/.

7. Wash walls and cabinets.8. Dust things up high, including ceiling fans and lights.9. Vacuum under and behind all furniture.10. In the kitchen, scrub inside and behind the refrigerator, stove and oven.11. Go through your closet and get rid of clothes you don’t wear anymore.12. In the evening, sit down in a comfortable chair or on your front porch, and be proud of all your hard work. And enjoy the season!

12 deep spring cleaning tips for keeping a healthier home

Four ways to make the most of your meds

Sheila Fain

Store your medications in a cool, dry place – which means not in the hot, steamy bathroom. Try keeping them in a dresser drawer or kitchen cabinet instead. If you choose a kitchen cabinet, make sure it’s not too close to the stove. Most medications are considered expired after one year. Common exceptions include insulin for diabetes, which expires 28 days after you open the vial; sublingual nitroglycerine for chest pain, which expires about six months after opening; and any liquid-based medication – because anything mixed with water has the potential to grow bacteria. Keep your expired medications out of the water supply by not flushing them down the toilet. Instead, mix them with something unpalatable such as coffee grounds or cat litter before putting them in the regular trash – to help repel children, pets and drug addicts. You can also use a product called Deterra,

a simple-to-use drug- deactivation system available at Flagstaff Pharmacy for about $3. You can also contact your local law enforcement agency about safe disposal options in your community. Most importantly: Your pharmacist is there to help you, so take advantage of his or her expertise and ask any questions you have. For example, if your pills look different, it’s likely because they came from a different manufacturer – but never assume. Stop and ask.

Flagstaff Pharmacy, located at 77 West Forest Ave., Ste. 104 in Flagstaff, is a full-service outpatient retail pharmacy open to the public. Call 928-773-2565 or visit our patient portal at FlagstaffPharmacy.flashrx.com to refill or transfer your prescription.

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Drugs! Now that we’ve got your attention, please take advantage of the following medication storage and disposal tips from Yari Valle, D. Pharm, manager of Flagstaff Pharmacy:

Yari Valle, D. Pharm

by Sarah Sabalos-Gruber, M.Ed.NAH Communications


4 exercises to improve your golf swing to prevent injuries

Andrew Castelein, P.T.

olf is a sport requiring flexibility, strength, balance and coordination. Without these skills, it is difficult to create a

consistently accurate and powerful golf swing that does not increase your risk of injury. Keeping your thoracic spine and hips flexible

is vital for maintaining your spinal angle; enables you to make an efficient back swing; and helps prevent a reverse spine angle swing fault – the number one cause of back pain in golf.

Below are four simple exercises from Andrew Castelein, P.T., a physical therapist with EntireCare Rehab & Sports Medicine at Verde Valley Medical Center – Sedona Campus, who specializes in golf fitness and the treatment of golf injuries. These exercises can help improve your golf swing and reduce your risk of developing an injury, but before you try them, Castelein cautions that you should consult with your physician – especially if you are currently dealing with a painful joint or muscle injury.

1. Open booksLie on your side with your knees bent and your hands extended out in front of you. Keeping your knees in contact with the ground, rotate your top arm across your body until you feel a stretch. As you rotate your body, gently press your legs and other arm into the floor. After a five-second hold, return your top arm back to the starting position and repeat. Perform 1 to 2 sets of 15 repetitions on each side, 4 to 5 days per week. This exercise helps improve thoracic spine mobility.

2. Stork turnsStart by standing on one leg and getting into a stable golf posture. Lift your left leg and lock your foot behind your right knee. Trying to keep your shoulders from rotating, begin to rotate your hips back and

forth and try to maintain balance. Repeat on the left leg. Use a golf club to assist balance initially. Perform 2 to 3 sets of 10 to 15 reps on each hip, 3 to 4 days per week. This exercise and the following exercise both improve balance, leg strength, coordination and hip and thoracic spine mobility – and help correct slide, sway and early extension swing faults.

3. Tall kneeling to half kneeling to single leg standing with shoulder turnStart by getting into a tall kneeling position with a golf club overhead. Step forward, placing your right foot on the floor. Turn your shoulders to the right. Stand

up onto your right leg, bringing your left knee high. As you stand up, turn your shoulders to the left. Reverse the motion, returning to tall kneeling. Repeat the exercise starting with the left foot forward. Go slowly enough to maintain a good posture and balance. Perform 2 to 3 sets of 8 to 10 repetitions, 3 to 4 days per week.

4. Body turns with golf clubHold a golf club with your hands shoulder-width apart. Use an underhand grip with your right and an overhand grip with your left. Bend down into golf posture, turn your shoulders to the right and raise your arms up with elbows straight. Turn to your left side by firing the hips first, then your shoulders.

Once you turn past the low point of your swing, stand up into a tall finish position with your body weight on your left leg. Your right heel should be off the ground with very little weight on your right foot. Perform 1 to 2 sets of 8 to 12 repetitions. Repeat the exercises on the left side, being sure to change your hand positions.

This exercise will familiarize you with the feeling of starting the downswing with your lower body and is a great warm-up exercise on the range before hitting golf balls. This exercise also helps develop the core strength needed for maintaining your spine angle throughout the swing.

To make an appointment with Andrew Castelein, P.T., in Sedona, call 928-282-6775.


Q&A: Preventing skin cancer

Expert in the house

ccording to the American Cancer Society, skin cancer is by far the most common of all cancers. About 3.5 million cases of basal

and squamous cell skin cancer are diagnosed in the U.S. each year. Melanoma, a more dangerous type of skin cancer, accounts for more than 70,000 cases of skin cancer each year.

Most skin cancers are caused by excess exposure to ultraviolet, or UV, rays from the sun or other sources, such as tanning beds and sun lamps.

Nancy Foreman, B.S.N., O.C.N., is a nurse navigator at the Cancer Centers of Northern Arizona Healthcare in Flagstaff. She answers some of the most common questions about protecting yourself from UV rays and preventing skin cancer.

Q: What should I keep in mind when I go outside? A: Limit your exposure to the sun. If you do go outside, remember that UV rays are strongest between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.; UV rays are stronger during the spring and summer months; even when the weather is still cool, you can get sunburned if you don’t protect yourself. According to the World Health Organization, ultraviolet radiation levels rise by about 4 to 5 percent for every 1,000 feet of altitude – so at high elevations like Flagstaff’s, more UV rays are reaching the ground.

Q: How important is using sunscreen? A: The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency estimates the sun causes the majority of all skin cancers, so using sunscreen regularly is absolutely necessary to your health. Use sunscreen with broad spectrum protection with a sun protection factor, or SPF, value of 30 or higher. Apply sunscreen generously – use one ounce of sunscreen, the equivalent of one palmful – to cover your arms, legs, neck and face.

Q: What clothing should I wear to protect myself against the sun?A: Wear long sleeves and long pants to protect your arms, legs and torso. Wear a hat with a 2- to 3-inch brim to protect your ears, eyes, forehead, nose and scalp.

Q: What kind of sunglasses should I wear?Wear sunglasses to protect your eyes as well as the delicate skin around them. When shopping for sunglasses, look for UV protection details on product labels. Choose sunglasses that block 99 to 100 percent of both types of ultraviolet rays, A and B – also known as UVA and UVB rays.

Q: Are tanning beds and sunlamps bad for your skin?A: Avoid tanning beds and sunlamps. They have been scientifically proven to be as dangerous as the sun and to cause skin cancer – why take the risk?

Q: How often should I check my own skin?A: Check your skin at least once a month. Look for any new moles, blemishes, freckles or other marks; look for changes in existing spots – for example, changes in color; changes in texture; or increases in size or thickness. If you find anything that looks suspicious, be sure to show it to your doctor so it can be tested if necessary. The Skin Cancer Foundation provides a variety of resources on what to look for during a self-exam at skincancer.org/skin-cancer-information/early-detection/if-you-can-spot-it-you-can-stop-it.

Q: How often should I get a skin cancer screening? A: Depending on your risk for skin cancer, your doctor may recommend a routine check-up on a regular basis.

Aby Kerry Bennett, M.A. NAH Communications

Nancy Foreman, B.S.N., O.C.N.


New and innovative at NAHSelf-rooming concept at Camp Verde to improve patient experience; streamline process

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What is Lean Six Sigma?Lean Six Sigma, a methodology focused on improving performance of a manufacturing process or business process, can be applied to a wide variety of products and services, including the design and construction of a building. For those who practice Lean Six Sigma, the results of successfully applying this methodology include eliminating waste, reducing time and improving quality.

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efore finalizing the design of the Camp Verde Campus – see cover story – the NAH team conducted a Lean Six Sigma operational study that included:

• Meeting with stakeholders to learn about demand and capacity to help determine how space should be allocated.• Organizing patient wait-time studies at various NAH sites.• Taking benchmarking tours of healthcare facilities in other regions, including Seattle and Minneapolis.• Running adjacency diagram exercises with affected staff to determine how to maximize patient experience and physician and staff flow. • Setting up full-scale exam room mock-ups on the third floor of Verde Valley Medical Center to enable providers, patients and staff to experience the exam room design and provide feedback.

The self-rooming feature, which will be implemented in several months, is expected to streamline clinical operations. By using a badge with an embedded tracking chip, providers and staff can monitor a patient’s movements through the facility. Clinicians can see where patients are on their computer monitors and quickly move from one patient to the next.

“As a result of the study’s findings,” explained Carrie Ellis, Lean Six Sigma Black Belt, practice manager of the primary care clinic at Camp Verde, “the team asked the architect to design exam rooms with two doors to separate staff and patient circulation while providing the appropriate level of privacy. The new design – based on the self-rooming con-cept used at the Virginia Mason Institute in Seattle, Wash. – enables patients to check in at kiosks in the lobby and find their own rooms. Ultimately, the innovative design enables patients to spend more quality time with their providers and to check out while they’re in the exam room, bypassing the traditional check-out desk.”

Carrie Ellis, Lean Six Sigma Black Belt, practice manager of the primary care clinic at Camp Verde, shows off one of the new exam rooms.

by Kerry Bennett, M.A. and Sophia Papa, M.A.NAH Communications

Separate physician and patient/family zones

Physician zone Patient/family zone

Sliding door providescaregiver accessfrom work core

Charting deskpromotes face to faceinteraction betweenpatient and physician

Sliding door allowspatient access fromcorridor

work core

patient/staff corridor

NAHealth.com

nah now! spring 2016

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