Brown & Toland Physicians HealthLink Spring 2015 - East Bay Edition

HealthLink

brownandtoland.com

Y O U R C O N N E C T I O N T O H E A LT H Y L I V I N G | S P R I N G 2 0 1 5

PRESCRIPTIONS: BE A SMART CONSUMERNUTRITION: EXPLORE FOOD MYTHS VS. FACTSWORKOUTS: DISCOVER SECRET STAIRCASES AROUND THE BAYCLIP AND SAVE: IDENTIFY SCREENINGS YOU NEED

The Power of RelationshipsYOUR SOCIAL CONNECTIONS CAN AFFECT YOUR HEALTH

About Brown & TolandWe’ve been providing personalized care to Bay

Area patients for more than 20 years. With a

wide network of acclaimed primary care physi-

cians and specialists practicing where you live

and work, we’re local care you can count on.

CONTROLLING YOUR HYPERTENSIONRegular doctor visits and having health insurance can help improve

your blood pressure readings, researchers say

According to a recent study published in the journal Circulation, regular

visits to your doctor can help control high blood pressure (hypertension),

a condition that can cause stroke, heart attack and other serious health

conditions.

Researchers analyzed data from 37,000 American adults who had their

blood pressure checked between 1999 and 2012. Those who visited their

physician at least twice a year were 3.2 times more likely to keep their

blood pressure under control compared to those who saw their doctor

once a year or less.

Sources: Circulation, HealthDay, American Heart Association

GET AFTER HOURS AND URGENT CAREConvenient hours, lots of locations, shorter wait times

Fevers and flu, bumps and bruises can happen anytime. That’s why we created our After

Hours and Urgent Care Network. Open nights and weekends, this convenient service

features shorter wait times and lower copays than the emergency room. Plus, referrals

are not required.

Our clinics, available to all Brown & Toland patients, are located in San Francisco,

Alameda and Contra Costa counties. Walk-ins are welcome at most locations. Or call

ahead to schedule a same-day visit.

For a complete list of our After Hours and Urgent Care clinics, go to brownand

toland.com/get-care/after-hours-and-urgent-care.

2 b r o w n a n d t o l a n d . c o m

LINKUPS

lar,” says Maliekal. “I encourage patients to shop around. Often

the club pharmacies offer lower costs.”

✓ Keep to a schedule. Experts advise taking your medicine at the

same time every day, along with other daily events (brushing

your teeth, going to bed, etc.).

✓ Use reminders. These include pillboxes (available at

drugstores), watches with alerts and voice alarms—even

people you’re close to and smartphone apps. RemindMe,

MyMedSchedule and MyMeds are among the nearly 200 apps

on the market, says Maliekal. “Start with the free apps to see

what meets your needs best.”

✓ Don’t stop taking your meds without talking to your doctor.

“If you’re having side effects or trouble managing multiple pre-

scriptions or don’t think your meds are working, let your doctor

know before you stop taking them,” advises Maliekal. “It takes

a while for most medications to start working,” he reminds.

“What’s more, if your medication regimen is too complicated,

your doctor and pharmacist can work together to simplify it.”

Sources: American Pharmacists Association, American Heart

Association, Patient Resource LLC

Did you know that 50% of patients fail to take their medications as

prescribed by their doctor and that about 20% of the prescriptions

doctors write aren’t filled?

If you’re in those ranks, “that’s a big problem,” says James

Maliekal, PharmD, clinical pharmacist at Brown & Toland

Physicians. “Studies show that if you don’t take your medications

as prescribed, you’re more likely to end up in the ER or hospital-

ized. This is especially true in patients with chronic diseases, like

diabetes or high blood pressure.”

To help safeguard this aspect of your health, follow these tips

from Maliekal and other experts:

✓ Know your meds — what, when, how much and why. “Some

patients don’t have a clear understanding of their medical

condition or what happens if they don’t take their meds,” says

Maliekal. If you’re unsure about this vital info, he adds, be cer-

tain to ask your doctor or pharmacist.

✓ Use the same pharmacy for all your prescriptions. This can

help you avoid taking conflicting medications.

✓ Be mindful of cost. “Patients should always ask before leaving

the doctor’s office if there’s a generic option or something simi-

Follow Your PrescriptionTaking meds just as your doctor orders is essential

S p r i n g 2 0 1 5 3

HOW TO

Food Facts and Myths

What are some pros and cons of vitamins?

Do we need to take them?

Typically, Americans are overnourished and

tend to be overfed, so a lack of vitamins isn’t

usually a problem. Multivitamins generally are

not necessary for the average healthy, middle-

aged person who eats a well-rounded diet that

includes lots of fresh vegetables and fruits of

lots of colors. Exceptions include pregnant

women who have a higher folic acid require-

ment to support the fetus’s neurological

development and people who have a poor diet

or certain medical conditions. Some gastro-

intestinal diseases, for example, hamper B12

absorption; shut-ins who don’t get sunlight

exposure don’t get enough vitamin D, which is

essential for calcium absorption.

We asked Anita Demas, M.D., a Brown & Toland internist who runs MD Weight Management in San Francisco, to address FAQs about

some common items we consume in the interest of our health. Here’s a taste of her responses.


INSIDER’S GUIDE

Get the scoop on some misconceptions — and surprises — about nutrition and weight loss, courtesy of a Brown & Toland physician

FYI: Most vitamins are better taken through

dietary sources because they are absorbed

better. Pill forms may not break down and

occasionally pass through the body partially

absorbed. Know this too: If you take more

vitamins and minerals than your body needs,

they can be toxic if they are fat soluble.

What about fasts and cleanses?

Helpful or hype?

There’s no evidence to support these things.

The body is like a self-cleaning oven. At birth,

your gastrointestinal [GI] system is sterile.

Slowly, over time, as you come in contact

with adult food, you acquire normal bacteria

that keep things healthy. By age three, you

have the normal adult level of bacteria in your

GI tract. Fasts and cleanses can upset the

normal “flora” and “fauna” of the GI tract.

Can drinking a lot of water aid weight loss?

Yes, there is evidence to support this strategy.

Generally speaking, if you drink a big glass

of water prior to eating, you consume fewer

calories. It fills up the stomach with water. It

also quenches thirst, which many patients

often mistake for hunger when they’re trying

to lose weight.

What are advantages and disadvantages of

consuming coconut water?

Coconut water is quite the fad right now. The

liquid is derived from inside green, unripe

coconuts. For a healthy person with no medical

issues, drinking it won’t do harm. But some

patients, particularly those with heart disease,

need to be aware of what they’re drinking, espe-

cially if they have compromised kidney function.

Coconut water has relatively high levels of

sodium — more than 250 mg in one cup — so

though: Don’t confuse nutritious flash-frozen

foods with high-fat, frozen dinners!

What about juicing?

The benefits of juicing are that you get

concentrated amounts of nutrients — juice

is packed with vitamins and minerals, and

low levels of fat and salt. The downside is

that most of the food plans that use juic-

ing to replace meals can leave gaping holes

in the diet — the majority of calories are

sugars, which are simple carbs, and there are

inadequate amounts of protein, which builds

lean muscle tissue. Juicing also reduces fiber

in most fruits and veggies. When you eat an

apple, you’re consuming complex carbohy-

drates, but apple juice is a simple carb, much

like sugar water. Another thing, liquids don’t

have the satiety power of whole foods, so they

can actually make you hungrier. And juicing is

quite expensive.

It’s OK to have a mostly green juice that’s

heavy on veggies and low on fruit to replace

a meal and eat lean protein in other meals to

balance your diet. But totally replacing meals

with juice isn’t a good idea. Bottom line: It’s

much healthier to eat things in whole form.

Learn more: Dr. Demas recommends the Nutrition

Action Healthletter ($24 per year,

cspinet.org/nah), published by the

Center for Science in the Public

Interest. For details about nutrition

classes at CPMC’s Community Health

Resource Center, see page 12 or visit

chrcsf.org or call 415.923.3155.

S p r i n g 2 0 1 5 5

people need to factor that into their daily

sodium allowance. It also contains high levels

of potassium — about 600 mg — and 60 mg

of magnesium, depending on the coconut

and its ripeness. For some heart patients,

increasing potassium can be dangerous for

their heart.

What’s better for you — fresh foods or

frozen foods?

The sooner you can eat food after it’s picked,

the better it is for you — the more nutritious.

So in many cases, frozen food can actually be

better — particularly those that are flash-

frozen near the source where they’re picked.

Many fresh foods have a long way to travel

from their source to your table, and the nutri-

ents can start to break down. One caution,

Chances are your smartphone plays a promi-

nent role in your daily life. You might use it to

keep in touch with friends and family, manage

your schedule, find your way around, snap

photos, track your footsteps, watch videos

and more. “One of the big stories about the

rise of technology in people’s lives is that it

has become embedded in the rhythms of

people’s lives,” says Lee Rainie, director of the

Pew Research Center’s Internet & American

Life Project, which has explored the social

impact of digital technology for the past 15

years. “People now are finding it increasingly

hard not to have their phone with them.”

Pros and Cons

Data from the Internet & American Life Project

suggests new media and technology present a

“double-edged proposition,” says Rainie. “You

can be interrupted at any moment, you can

be on call at any moment, you can be asked

to go to someplace else rather than the place

that you are, and so there are plenty of ways

that screen life is distracted life,” she says.

“At the same time, what we constantly hear

from people is that they feel that there are any

number of advantages to living this life.”

From a health perspective, you can count

instant access to health information — and

to other parents and patients with similar

interests — among those advantages, says

Wendy Sue Swanson, M.D., a pediatrician and

spokesperson for the American Academy of

Pediatrics (AAP). “Families are at the helm of

their healthcare in a way they’ve never been

before,” she says.

But don’t overlook the digital disad-

vantages, including the well-documented

dangers of driving — or even walking — while

texting. Taking devices to bed — as more

Distracted LivingFor better or worse, today’s preoccupation with new media and technology has changed the way we live and communicate


than 4 in 5 teens report doing — and texting

after lights are out result in more tired teens.

In a recent study, even younger children

(fourth- and seventh-graders) who slept in

rooms with small-screen devices reported

getting less sleep. And it’s not just incoming

messages keeping us awake; the blue glow of

our devices’ LED screens near bedtime can

disrupt our bodies’ natural sleep cycles.

And what about the influence of social

media? To Rainie’s surprise, a recent Pew

report found no direct relationship between

social media and stress. In fact, some people,

especially women, experienced lower levels

of stress when using a certain combination of

social media and digital technology. However,

researchers found social media can be an

indirect cause of stress for users (again partic-

ularly for women) who learn about distressing

events in others’ lives, a concept called “the

cost of caring.” As for the claim that social

media makes us socially isolated, Rainie says

the opposite appears to be true: Social media

users tend to be more social than nonusers.

Rx: Disconnect

“In some ways,” explains Dr. Swanson, ”we’re

just using new tools to build relationships,

partnerships, friendships and understanding.”

Even so, she adds, an important part of adapt-

ing to life with gadgets is recognizing when it’s

best to put them away.

Dr. Swanson suggests making devices off-

limits during mealtimes and bedtime; keeping

them out of bedrooms; leaving them behind

for short bursts of time, such as when you

go for a walk; and designating digital breaks

during vacations.

The AAP recommends creating a family

media-use plan addressing quantity, quality

and location of media use. The plan should

limit entertainment screen time to less than

two hours a day and discourage screen time

for children under 2 years old.

For kids older than 2 years old, think about

how you can use media to inspire rather than

babysit, advises Dr. Swanson, an executive

committee member of the AAP Council on

Communications & Media, which wrote its pol-

icy statement on Children, Adolescents and the

Media. “I would never want you to hand a device

to a child and walk away,” she cautions. “How

are you interacting with them with technology

as opposed to how are you using technology as

a distracter or a quieter or a muffler? We don’t

have any data that says passive media is any

good for very young children.”

Finally, be sure to encourage good old-

fashioned creativity — at any age. “That’s

what we don’t get when we’re always attached

to our devices,” says Dr. Swanson. ”Carving

out time for creativity and blank walls for our

brains to just daydream and reflect is such an

important part of making our own ideas.”

FIND OUT MORE• Pew Internet & American Life Project, pewinternet.org

• American Academy of Pediatrics, healthychildren.org

S p r i n g 2 0 1 5 7

SCREENTIME

The Power of

Social Connections

RELATIONSHIPS

Strong relationships can benefit your health, researchers say


You probably are well aware of the usual suspects and habits

that play a big role in promoting your long-term well-being —

not smoking, for example, or eating a healthful diet or making

sure to get enough sleep. But did you know that having strong relation-

ships and social connections can also have a powerful effect on your

physical health?

Get-togethers with friends, family gatherings and joining in special

community, workplace and religious activities can do more than simply

bring us pleasure, experts say. Studies show that people who have satis-

fying relationships with friends, family and their community are not only

happier — they also have fewer health problems and live longer too.

Interestingly, some of the groundbreaking research in this field has

its roots right here in the Bay Area. In what’s come to be known as the

Alameda County Study — an East Bay research project involving 6,928

adult residents in the 1970s — researchers found that the fewer social

ties people reported in the study’s baseline survey, the more likely they

were to die over the nine-year follow-up period. Over the decades since,

these findings have been corroborated and broadened in studies that

were conducted across a variety of populations, and have documented

an array of benefits for people who are more socially integrated: more

likely to survive a heart attack (myocardial infarction), less likely to

report being depressed and more.

Nowadays, experts are still hard at work trying to figure exactly

how our social ties “get inside” our bodies. One

theory is that the feelings of stability, purpose,

belonging, security and recognition of

S p r i n g 2 0 1 5 9

RELATIONSHIPS

self-worth that result from social connections inspire, in turn, greater

motivation to take care of oneself. Other researchers have dug deeper:

In their trail of inquiry, social integration has been associated with the

body’s biological systems, including cardiovascular and endocrine func-

tion and the immune system’s ability to fend off infectious illness.

While researchers and medical experts continue to sort out all the

whats and whys, there’s still a clear take-home message about social

connections: Appreciate the many payoffs of the important relation-

ships in your life — and take time to foster them.

Sources: Harvard Health Publications, Harvard Medical School; Science;

American Journal of Health Education; American Psychologist; Journal of

Health and Social Behavior; Advances in Mind-Body Medicine

Tending Your Garden of RelationshipsKaren Ruskin, PsyD, LMFT, a fellow of the American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy, likes to think of strategies for boost-

ing social connections as ways “to water the plant of your relationships.”

For example, there are countless ways to tend to your mate or significant other, she suggests, but you need to be diligent. “Every

morning when you wake up, ask yourself what is one thing I can do to make them feel special and valued,” Ruskin suggests. “Then

before you go to bed, ask yourself what is the thing you did. And if you really didn’t do much of anything, pump it up — fill their car with

gas, do the food shopping they normally do, greet them at the door when they come home. The No. 1 relationship destroyer is not pay-

ing attention. Then the relationship disconnects.”

Experts at the Mayo Clinic add these suggestions for building friendships and relationships:

• Keep in contact. People know you care when you return emails, answer phone calls and reciprocate invites.

• Be a good listener. If you take time to find out what’s important to your friends, you may learn you have more in common than

you realize.

• Take time to say thanks. Show your appreciation to your friends and family; express how important they are to you. And when they

need support, be there for them.

1 0 b r o w n a n d t o l a n d . c o m

The Magic Stairway, San Francisco

S p r i n g 2 0 1 5 1 1

CHECK THIS OUT

Secret StaircasesSteps to take for your health — and your pleasure

There are hundreds of outdoor stairways in San Francisco and more just outside the city. Some take you through lush forests, others

past historic architecture, and many to lovely views — all while giving you a pretty good cardio workout. Here are just a few worth scaling.

Ambling by Architecture

San Francisco (Russian Hill)

Opposite 1251 Lombard, find the Culebra

Terrace Stairway, a lush throughway with

shrubbery and flowers that passes charming

cottages. Upon emerging into the Chestnut

Street cul-de-sac, take a right up the shady

Chestnut stairway, which brings you to a land-

ing with a view of the Palace of Fine Arts. From

there, walk up the left-hand stairway to see

the Presidio and the Golden Gate Bridge.

The Magic Stairway

San Francisco (Sunset)

This brilliantly colored mosaic tile stair is at

16th Avenue and Moraga. Upon reaching the

fifth landing, you’ll be rewarded with a view of

the Golden Gate Bridge.

Indian Rock Park

Berkeley hills

Dick Leonard, the “father of modern rock

climbing,” developed his mountaineering

techniques here. But even casual hikers can

get to the peak, which affords panoramic

views of San Francisco, Oakland and the bay,

as one side offers a gentle incline with stone

steps. The park is at 950 Indian Rock Ave. at

Shattuck Avenue.

Cleveland Cascade

Oakland

Popular among fitness runners and casual

amblers alike, this long, multitiered stairway

near Lake Merritt ascends through lush

beds, including flowering plants with vibrant

blooms. It offers lake views, and its handrails

are lighted with LED lights for nighttime

strolls. The stairway begins from Lakeshore

Avenue, from between Boden Way and

Cleveland Cascade.

Dipsea Trail Stairs

Mill Valley

Primed for a challenge? Hit the Dipsea Trail on

Mount Tam, with flights of stairs that ascend

the height of a 50-story building. The stairs

take you into the verdant forest and, if you

continue along the trail, across Redwood

Creek and to bay views. To locate the steps,

find the intersection of Cascade Drive,

Cascade Way and Molino Avenue, then head

up Cascade Way, keeping an eye out for the

Dipsea Trail signs on trees.

Your HealthA guide to health and wellness programs

As an Alta Bates Medical Group member, you have a doctor who listens to your needs, respects your choices and provides you with the highest-quality care you can find. You also have access to some of the finest community health resources. Some of these classes are free, and others require a nominal fee or donation. Call the listed telephone numbers for more information.


CALENDAR - SPRING 2015

EAST BAY

DIABETES

Keys to Living Well With DiabetesThis free, two-part program will help people gain a better understanding about diabetes by learning how diabetes af-fects your body, how to control diabetes through healthful eating, how to take care of your body and maintain appropriate blood sugar levels, and how to avoid complications.June 4 and 11, Oct. 19 and 26, 7–9 p.m.Sutter Eden Medical Center, 20103 Lake Chabot Road, Castro ValleyRegister online or call 888.445.8433.

LIVING WITH CANCER

Look Good, Feel BetterThe side effects of cancer treatments may leave many patients exhausted and disheartened by changes in their appearance. Come and let our specially trained team of cosmetologists pamper you and help bring out your inner beauty through the use of cos-metics, scarves and wigs. You will not only look revitalized but also feel positive about yourself. Co-sponsored by the American Cancer Society. May 4, July 27, Oct. 5, 10 a.m.–noon

Sutter Eden Medical Center, 20103 Lake Chabot Road, Castro ValleyCall 800.227.2345 to register.

SURGERY

Weight Loss (Bariatric) Surgery Introductory SeminarThis free weight loss surgery seminar is offered in multiple locations in the Bay Area and reviews the anatomy of bariatric surgery, the diet plan and lifestyle changes to expect after surgery. The seminar is a forum for you to ask questions of the nurse coordinator and other staff members. Patients who are considering surgery are required to attend an introductory seminar prior to their appointment with the surgeon. May 12, June 9, July 14, Aug. 11, Sept. 8, Oct. 13, 4:30–7 p.m.Health Education Center (HEC), Room 102, 400 Haw-thorne Ave., OaklandMay 29, July 24, Sept. 25, noon–2 p.m.Green Valley Center, 4830 Business Center Drive, FairfieldJune 23, Aug. 25, Oct. 27, 5–7 p.m.SEBMF Castro Valley Care Center (next to hospital), Con-ference Room 4, 20101 Lake Chabot Road, Castro Valley Register online or call 510.869.8972.

PREGNANCY AND PARENTING

Coping With Labor Pain — FREE lectureThis two-part lecture provides information about pain relief during labor and delivery. The first night, a childbirth educator discusses breathing and relaxation techniques as well as strategies for coping with labor. The second night, an OB anesthesiologist leads a discussion of anesthesia op-tions. The information covered in this series is also included in ABSMC childbirth classes. May 21 and 28, June 18 and 25, July 9 and 16, August 20 and 27, 7:30–9 p.m.ABSMC, 2450 Ashby Ave., Berkeley Call 510.204.4461 or register online at absmcparented.org. Registration is required.

Childbirth RefresherThis one-day class is designed for those who have previously attended childbirth classes and need a refresher to review labor and birth, breathing, relaxation skills, the partner’s role and anesthesia options.May 18, 6–9 p.m. (offered every other month)ABSMC, 2450 Ashby Ave., Berkeley Registration required. Call 510.204.4461 or register online at absmcparented.org.

Childbirth Preparation (English)Taught by certified Eden’s Childbirth Education instruc-tors, this two-session com-prehensive course will help prepare you for your childbirth experience and more. Course covers third trimester fetal development, signs and symp-toms of labor, stages of labor, delivery, postpartum recovery and caring for your newborn. Progressive relaxation and breathing techniques are also discussed. Bring snack and water bottle; wear comfortable clothing. April 18 and 25, May 2 and 9, July 11 and 18, Aug. 22 and 29, Sept. 26 and Oct. 3, Oct. 24 and 31, 9 a.m.–3:30 p.m.Sutter Eden Medical Center, 20103 Lake Chabot Road, Castro ValleyFor more information or details about location, or to register, call 888.445.8433. Check refund/transfer policy before re-enrolling.$105/single or couple

Ready, Set, DeliverThis class series is held on four consecutive weeks and covers what to expect in your last trimester of pregnancy, signs of labor, making a plan for de-livery and what to expect in the postpartum period. Tips for caring for the newborn are also discussed. Preregistration is required. Based on availability,

we will have an anesthesiolo-gist and pediatrician come by to talk to class participants.May 7, 14, 21, 28; Sept. 3, 10, 17, 24; Oct. 28, Nov. 4, 11, 18, 6:15–8:30 p.m.Sutter Delta Medical Center, 3901 Lone Tree Way, AntiochCall 925.779.2955 or email [email protected]. $75 per couple

SAN FRANCISCO AND DALY CITY

COMMUNITY HEALTH EVENTS

Mindful Eating Class SeriesMindful eating can change the way you look at food. In this class, we will each bring our din-ner and practice eating mind-fully in a small, judgment-free environment. Intake interview required prior to start date. Pre-sented by Sabine Haake, M.A., R.D., eating behavior specialist and nutritionist.Thursdays, May 7–28, 6–7:30 p.m. Community Health Resource Center, 2100 Webster St., Suite 100, San FranciscoAdvance payment/enrollment required; $120/per class or $440 for the series. Brown & Toland members at-tend for FREE. Visit chrcsf.org or call 415.923.3155 for more information.

PREGNANCY AND PARENTING

CPMC Newborn ConnectionsA great resource for expectant parents, whether you are contemplating having a baby or have recently given birth. Newborn Connections offers the support and education you need through pregnancy and early parenthood. Part of CPMC’s Women & Children’s Center, Newborn Connections provides ongoing prenatal classes, support groups, breastfeeding and baby sup-plies, and lactation services. CPMC, Women’s Health Resource Center, 3698 Cali-fornia St. To register or for more information, visit cpmc.org/newbornconnections, call 415.600.2229, or email cpmcnewborn@ sutterhealth.org.

Seton Medical CenterSeton offers classes for expectant parents. The Childbirth Education Series is a comprehensive six-week series that covers vital topics such as preparation for labor and delivery, newborn care and breastfeeding techniques. The hospital also offers a four-week course on preparing for labor and delivery, a one-session class on baby care basics and a one-session class on breast-feeding. The Infant CPR and Child Safety class instructs parents and caregivers on how to perform lifesaving skills on their children.Seton Medical Center, 1900 Sullivan Ave., Daly CityFor cost, dates and times, call 650.991.6345.

St. Luke’s Women’s Center St. Luke’s offers resources and classes for expectant parents and new mothers. The Childbirth Preparation Class is a one-day Saturday course that covers physical changes during pregnancy and labor, relaxation techniques, breathing techniques based on the Lamaze method, cesarean birth and anesthesia during childbirth. The Women’s Center also offers free prenatal and postpartum yoga classes. CPMC, St. Luke’s Campus Women’s Center, 1580 Valen-cia St., 5th Floor, Suite 508For information on classes and hospital tours (in English and Spanish), call 415.641.6911. Open only to St. Luke’s patients.

DIABETES

CPMC Center for Diabetes Services (FREE for Brown & Toland members)CPMC’s Center for Diabetes Services offers a comprehen-sive diabetes management and education program for adults. Our nurse educators, clinical dietitians and clinical social workers are Certified Diabetes Educators. We offer individually tailored and group education sessions for type 1 and type 2 diabetes self-management, including blood sugar (glucose) monitoring, nutrition counseling and meal planning, medication manage-ment, insulin adjustment and lifestyle change. Diabetes adult education programs include Diabetes BASICS (type 2), Intensive Management and Advanced Carbohydrate Counting (type 1), Continuous Glucose Monitoring, Adult Dia-betes Clinic (endocrinology) and a pre-diabetes course. 3801 Sacramento St., 7th Floor For dates and times, visit

cpmc.org/services/diabetes or call 415.600.0506. Physi-cian referral required.

Seton Medical Center’s Living Healthy With DiabetesThese classes provide comprehensive diabetes self-management training. Classes are held from 3–4 p.m. on the second Tuesday of every month. Call 415.923.3155.

St. Luke’s Diabetes CenterIf you have diabetes, St. Luke’s Diabetes Center works to-gether with you and your physi-cian to help keep your diabetes under control for a lifetime. We provide state-of-the-art training and care so you can maintain your best health and avoid complications. The center offers complete adult and child outpatient services, including screening, individual care instructions, diet and meal planning, and resources for supplies and services. CPMC, St. Luke’s Campus, 3555 Cesar Chavez St., Room 230Call 415.641.6826 or email [email protected].

St. Mary’s Diabetes Group Classes (FREE)This eight-week series covers all aspects of taking care of your diabetes, including how to measure blood sugar, what foods to eat, and how to maintain weight and healthy cholesterol levels. You don’t need to start with Week 1 — you are welcome to start with any of the classes. Guests are welcome too. No registration is required. Mondays, 4–5 p.m. (not of-fered during holidays) St. Mary’s Medical Center, 450 Stanyan St.Call 415.750.5513.

Mindful Eating Class SeriesJoin our four-week class to experience

how mindful eating can change the way

you look at food. With the help of an

experienced registered dietitian, explore

your thoughts around eating in various

situations and learn steps to successfully

shift attitudes and feelings — and have an

enjoyable eating experience while you’re

at it. In this class, we will each bring our

dinner and practice eating mindfully in a

small, judgment-free environment. Intake

interview required prior to start date.

Presented by Sabine Haake, M.A., R.D.,

eating behavior specialist and nutritionist.

Thursdays, May 7–28, 6–7:30 p.m.

Community Health Resource Center,

2100 Webster St., Suite 100

Advance payment/enrollment required;

$120/per class or $440 for the series.

Brown & Toland members attend for FREE.

Visit chrcsf.org or call 415.923.3155 for

more information.

S p r i n g 2 0 1 5 1 3

SUPPORT GROUPS

Support groups are open to individuals, their caregivers and families seeking advice and support. Refreshments provided; no cost to attend.All listed groups take place in San Francisco. To register for a group or for more information, call 415.923.3155.

Stroke SurvivorsThis group is designed to aid the recovery of stroke survivors at any stage by pro-viding a safe and supportive atmosphere where individuals are able to share their experi-ences. Made possible by the generous funds of Home

Instead Senior Care of San Francisco.First Thursdays, 1–2:30 p.m.CPMC Pacific Campus, 2100 Webster St., Room 106Call 415.923.3155 to register.

Liver CancerThose living with liver cancer, family members, loved ones and caregivers are invited to participate in this group. Its purpose is to provide emotional and social support, education, and shared experi-ence in an open, accepting environment. Second Tuesdays, 2–3:30 p.m.CPMC Pacific Campus, 2351 Clay St., Deikel Room 137Call 415.600.1209 to register.

Cancer Buddy ProgramThis program connects trained volunteer cancer survivors with patients who are within the first year of a cancer diag-nosis. The program is a forum for individuals to speak openly with someone who under-stands cancer from personal experience. Facilitated by Scott Plymale, LCSW, Ph.D.Community Health Resource Center, 2100 Webster St., Suite 100, San FranciscoTo request a buddy or to vol-unteer, call 415.923.3155.

Breast Cancer Support GroupReceive support from a special group of women who have had breast cancer. Share experiences with others to help answer your questions and ease any worries. Friends and family are also invited. Facilitator: Diane Scott, Ph.D. Every Tuesday, 5–7 p.m. (newly diagnosed or in treatment)Every Wednesday, 5–7 p.m. (cancer veterans/metastatic diagnosis)St. Mary’s Medical Center, 450 Stanyan St., 6th Floor, Room T6-30Call 415.750.5775.

Traumatic Brain Injury Support GroupSt. Mary’s Medical Center and the San Francisco Traumatic Brain Injury Network sponsor this support group for people living with traumatic brain injuries.Third Thursdays, 3–4:30 p.m. St. Mary’s Medical Center, 450 Stanyan St., 3rd Floor, 3 East Conference RoomFor schedule and more infor-mation, call Kevin Carroll at 415.750.5805 or email [email protected].

FOR A MORE COMPLETE LISTING OF HEALTH EDUCATION CLASSES AND EVENTS, VISIT THE FOLLOWING WEBSITES:

Alta Bates Summit Medical Centeraltabatessummit.org

California Pacific Medical Center and CPMC St. Luke’s Campuscpmc.org

Chinese Community Health Resource Center cchrchealth.org

Saint Francis Memorial Hospital saintfrancismemorial.org

Seton Medical Center seton.dochs.org

St. Mary’s Medical Center stmarysmedicalcenter.org

© 2015 by Brown & Toland Physicians

Richard AngeloniExecutive Editor P: 415.972.4307 F: [email protected]

Lorna FernandesSenior Editor P: 415.972.4250F: [email protected]

HealthLink is published by Brown & Toland Physicians as a community service and is not intended for the purpose of diagnosing or prescribing. Produced by DCP

HealthLink


CALENDAR - SPRING 2015

✃

CLI

P A

ND

SAV

E

Health Maintenance Guidelines

SCREENING FREQUENCY, AGES 18–49 FREQUENCY, AGES 50–75

Blood pressure every 2 years every visit with your doctor

Diabetes every 3 years after age 45, earlier if you have every 3 years hypertension or obesity

HIV depending on risk factors depending on risk factors

Hepatitis B only if pregnant or Asian without only if Asian without documented hepatitis B vaccinations documented hepatitis B vaccinations

Hepatitis C not applicable if born between 1945 and 1965

Lung cancer not applicable ages 55–74 if you have a 30-pack-a-year smoking history, are a current smoker, or have quit within 15 years

Colon cancer not applicable colonoscopy every 10 years, sigmoidoscopy every 5 years, or annual testing for blood in stool (fecal occult blood)

Immunizations Flu: annually Flu: annually Tetanus: every 10 years Tetanus: every 10 years HPV: male and females ages 11–26 Zoster: age 60 and up Hepatitis B: 3 doses Pneumococcal: once after age 65 Hepatitis B: 3 doses

Pap smear every 3 years from ages 21–30; every 5 every 5 years if HPV testing is negative; years after age 30 if HPV co-testing is stop at age 65 if previous screening is normal negative and up to date

Chlamydia annually until age 25, if sexually active not applicable

Mammogram not applicable every 2 years

Bone density test not applicable at age 65 to test for osteoporosis(DEXA)

Screening for abdominal not applicable at age 65 if you have ever smokedaortic ultrasound

General Women's health Men's health

Cholesterol test every 5 years after age 45, earlier if you have every 5 years hypertension or obesity or you use tobacco

S p r i n g 2 0 1 5 1 5

PRSRT STDU.S. POSTAGE

PAIDPermit #183

SAN FRANCISCO CA 94188

Brown & Tolan d Physic iansP.O. B ox 6 4 0 4 69S an Fran cisco, CA 9 416 4-0 4 69

brownandtoland.com

Care When You Need It

When It Can’t Wait Until Tomorrow, After Hours and Urgent Care Is Here TodayWe don’t always get sick during normal business hours. That’s why we’ve created an After Hours and

Urgent Care Network. With evening and weekend hours to treat many non-life-threatening injuries

and illnesses, our network makes it easier for you to receive care when you need it.

Direct Urgent Care

3095 Telegraph Ave., Berkeley, CA 94705

Phone: 510.686.3621 / Hours: 9 a.m.–7 p.m.

Open every day (except holidays) — serves adults and children

Night Owl Urgent Care

425 Gregory Lane, Suite 203, Pleasant Hill, CA 94523

Phone: 925.288.3600 / Hours: Monday to Friday, 4:30 p.m.–9 p.m.;

Saturday, noon–4 p.m.; Sunday, 2 p.m.–9 p.m. — serves children

Adult care (by appointment only), Monday to Thursday, 7 p.m.–9 p.m.

Pediatric Evening Referral Clinic (PERC)

5700 Telegraph Ave., Suite 100, Oakland, CA 94609

Phone: 510.486.8344 / Hours: Monday to Friday, 6 p.m.– 9:30 p.m. (telephone lines open at 5 p.m.);

weekends and holidays, 8:30 a.m.–9:30 p.m. — serves children only

All three after hours and urgent care clinics offer shorter wait times and lower copays than hospital emergency rooms. If you are experiencing a life-threatening emergency, please call 911 immediately.

Brown & Toland Physicians HealthLink Spring 2015 - East Bay Edition

Documents

Transcript of Brown & Toland Physicians HealthLink Spring 2015 - East Bay Edition