Depression Screenings

Depression is a type of behavioral health problem that often goes unrecognized and untreated.  Depression is a major cause of disability among adults in the United States.  It affects individuals and as a result, their families.  Screening can lead to early diagnosis and treatment.

Screening refers to medical professionals asking about symptoms of depression, even when patients do not mention them.  Depression symptoms include feeling sad, hopelessness, fatigue, loss of interest in activities, and inability to concentrate.  It is common for depression to occur without physical symptoms.  Because of that it is difficult for health care professionals to be able to diagnose unless asked directly.

SCREENING METHODS

Several questionnaires are used to screen for depression.  The most commonly used in the primary care setting are patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ) and the Becks Depression Inventory.  These consist of between 2 to 9 questions and require only a few minutes to complete.

WHO SHOULD BE SCREENED

The US Preventive Health task Force currently recommends depression screening for all adults older than 18 years of age, including pregnant women and new mothers as well as elderly adults.  Extensive research has shown that there is significant patient benefit to diagnosis and treatment of depression.

TREATING DEPRESSION

There are many effective ways to treat depression including counseling, cognitive behavior therapy, medication and a combination of these approaches.  Your provider and the behavioral health team at AbsoluteCARE are equipped to address and treat this issue. Call 404.231.4431 to schedule an appointment.

AbsoluteCARE Featured in Georgia Partnership for Telehealth Newsletter

We are pleased to be featured in the “Partner Spotlight” in the Georgia Partnership for TeleHealth, Inc. September Newsletter.

Check it out here: http://www.gatelehealth.org/index.php/2015/09/september-newsletter-2015/

The Pneumococcal Vaccination

-The pneumococcal vaccination can prevent severe illness and death from pneumococcal disease.

-Pneumococcal disease refers to any infection caused by bacteria called streptococcus pneumoniae.  These bacteria commonly effect the lungs, causing pneumonia, as well as affecting the sinuses, ears and upper respiratory tract.  Pneumococcal disease is not usually severe, but for some it can be a life threatening infection involving the brain, bloodstream, and lungs.  This is called invasive pneumococcal disease and can be prevented with vaccination.

-There are two types of pneumococcal vaccines (23-valent & 13-valent vaccine).  All children under the age of 5 years should receive 13-valent vaccine.  Adults over the age of 65 should receive both types of vaccine but not at the same time.  Healthy adults between ages of 9 to 65 years of age do not need vaccination.

-Adults with long-term health problems should also receive the vaccines.  People with heart disease, lung disease, HIV, people who have had surgical removal of their spleen, and those with some types of cancer are good candidates for the vaccinations.

-Talk to your healthcare provider at your next visit to determine if you are a candidate for this vaccination.

Say Goodbye to Trans Fat

 

Last month the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) decided to ban trans fat from the American diet¹. So what exactly is trans fat? It is a bad type of fat mainly found in processed foods such as baked goods, fried foods, and various snack foods. Trans fat is considered bad because it can increase the risk of heart disease.  Specifically, trans fat can increase LDL “bad” cholesterol while also decreasing HDL “good” cholesterol. All individuals should aim to eliminate trans fat as much as possible from their diet.

Currently, trans fat is shown on the Nutrition Facts Label, but can often be misleading. For example, the grams of trans fat could be “0” on the label, but this may not be completely true. It is especially important to read the label to avoid “hydrogenated” or “partially hydrogenated oil” in the ingredient list. If you see either of these phrases, it means the product is not truly trans fat free and another food without either of these ingredients should be chosen.

Until the ban on trans fat is put into effect three years from now, consumers need to be educated and proactive about reading labels to avoid trans fat. It will be up to the food manufacturing companies to eliminate the sources of trans fat from their products. Eliminating trans fat is a step in the right direction for the health of America.

 

1. S. Food and Drug Administration. FDA Cuts Trans Fat in Processed Foods. Available at: http://www.fda.gov/ForConsumers/ConsumerUpdates/ucm372915.htm. Accessed June 23, 2015

 

About the Author: Julia Bleecker, MS, RD, LD

Julia  joined AbsoluteCARE Medical Center and Pharmacy in September 2012. Julia received her Bachelor of Science in Dietetics from the University of Georgia where she also served as the dietitian’s assistant for The University of Georgia Food Service Program. She completed her dietetic internship while earning her Master’s Degree in Nutrition from Georgia State University (GSU). During that time, Julia had opportunities to intern at Grady Memorial Hospital, The Marcus Institute, and Piedmont Hospital. In addition, Julia served on the marketing committee in the development of a community garden on campus at GSU.

Julia is a member of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics and the Georgia Dietetic Association. She counsels patients on various topics such as diabetes, weight management, hyperlipidemia, hypertension, and cardiovascular disease. Julia also enjoys providing grocery store tours to patients to show that eating healthy can be easy and inexpensive. Outside of work, Julia enjoys cooking, UGA football, and spending time with friends and family. 

Do you Have Advance Directives in Place?

Do you have advance directives in place to help your family and doctors respect your health care wishes? If not, please check out this information, provided by Dr. Stahura, and contact us at 404.231.4431 to schedule an appointment for assistance with creating your advance directives.

-Advance directives help your family and doctors respect your health care wishes.

-Advance directives are written instructions you prepare to guide your medical care. They apply in situations such as a terminal illness or severe injury that render you unable to make decisions about your medical care.

-One common directive is a living will. In a living will you define what medical treatments you do or do not want for yourself. Another directive is medical power of attorney. This involves choosing someone you trust to make decisions about your medical care if you are unable.

-Advance directives are not legally binding. A healthcare provider can refuse to honor your advance directives on moral or religious basis or if the care you request is not medically appropriate. Talking with your healthcare provider ahead of time will help prevent these situations from occurring.

-Advance directives are appropriate for everyone. They are not solely for the elderly or very sick. Young adults who become suddenly ill or injured will be placing loved ones in difficult situations if they do not have advance directives in place. Knowing what type of care you want for yourself will make the decisions they face much easier.

-In preparing advance directives, determine what your healthcare goals and values are if you are seriously ill. Talk to your family and doctors.

-The social services department at AbsoluteCARE has prepared the necessary forms and can assist you. Advance directives should be reviewed and updated as your health and life changes.

June Events at AbsoluteCARE

We have many events planned for June at AbsoluteCARE. Please plan to join us for some educational classes & events!! RSVP by emailing social@AbsoluteCAREHealth.com or by calling the appropriate contact person listed below. We can’t wait to see you soon!

3^rd Mindful Eating 11:00am-1:00pm Contact: Alene or Julia

4^th Walking Group 4:00pm Contact: Julia

9^th Diabetes & Nutrition 8:30am-12:00pm Contact: Alene or Julia

11^th Walking Group 4:00pm Contact: Julia

17^th Healthy Happy Hour 11:00am-12:00pm Contact: Alene or Julia

18^th Walking Group 4:00pm Contact: Julia

19^th Crafting Class – Father’s Day: Make Your Own Tie 2:00pm Contact: Freda

24^th Lunch & Learn – Topic TBA 12-1:00pm Contact: Freda

25^th Walking Group 4:00pm Contact: Julia

Contacts:

Freda: 404-231-4431 ext 132              

Alene: 404-231-4431 ext 122            

Julia: 404-231-4431 ext 161

AbsoluteCARE Nutrition Department’s Recipe of the Month – May 2015

Chicken Tostada Salad is our Nutrition Team’s May Recipe of the Month – Yum! It was featured in our May Healthy Cooking Class as well. For more information on attending a future cooking class, please email social@absolutecarehealth.com

Enjoy this healthy & delicious recipe!

CHICKEN TOSTADA SALAD

Makes: 4 Servings

INGREDIENTS (Key: T = Tablespoon, t = teaspoon, oz = ounce)

2 boneless, skinless chicken breast halves (6-8 oz. each)

Pepper, to taste

4 corn tortillas (6 inch)

1 T extra-virgin olive oil

¾ cup grated Monterey Jack cheese

½ small red onion, finely diced

½ t chili powder

1 garlic clove, minced

¼ cup water

1 T plus 1 t fresh lime juice

½ head romaine lettuce, shredded

1 tomato, seeded and chopped

1 avocado, halved lengthwise, pitted, peeled, and diced

Fresh cilantro, for serving

DIRECTIONS

1. Preheat oven to 400°F. Place chicken in a medium pot. Add water to cover, and bring to a boil. Cover and reduce to a bar simmer; cook 5 minutes. Remove pan from heat and let chicken stand, covered, until cooked through, 12-14 minutes. Remove chicken from liquid. When cool enough to handle, shred into bite size pieces.

2. Meanwhile, lightly brush both sides of tortillas with a total of 2 t oil and place in a single layer on a rimmed baking sheet. Bake until golden and crisp, rotating sheet halfway through, about 10 minutes. Divide cheese evenly among tortillas and bake until cheese is bubbling, about 3 minutes. Remove from oven.

3. In a large skillet, heat remaining teaspoon oil over medium-high. Add half the onion and cook until softened, about 3 minutes. Add chili powder and garlic and cook, stirring, until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Add chicken and the water and season with pepper. Cook, stirring frequently, until chicken is warmed through and water is almost evaporated, about 2 minutes. Stir in 1 teaspoon lime juice and remove from heat.

4. In a large bowl, combine lettuce and remaining tablespoon lime juice; season with pepper. Toss well to coat and divide among tortillas; top each with chicken mixture, tomato, avocado, remaining onion, and cilantro.

NUTRITION INFORMATION (for each serving)

Calories: 326

Fat:  17.5 grams

Saturated fat:  4.8 grams

Total Carbohydrates:  19.6 grams

Fiber:  6 grams

Protein:  24.3 grams

Source: “Everyday Food Light.” Martha Stewart Living Omnimedia, Inc. 2011. Page 142.

May Events at AbsoluteCARE

So many great things happening at ‪AbsoluteCARE in May. Please join us for some educational classes & events!! Be sure to RSVP by emailing social@AbsoluteCAREHealth.com or by calling the appropriate contact person listed below. We look forward to spending time with you!

Upcoming Classes – May 2015

6^th Healthy Cooking 5-6:30pm Contact: Alene or Julia

7^th Walking Group 4pm Contact: Alene or Julia

8^th Crafting Class – “Create Your Own Body Scrub” 2pm Contact: Freda

12^th Diabetes & Nutrition 8:30am-12pm Contact: Alene or Julia

13^th Lunch & Learn – Topic TBA 12-1pm Contact: Freda

14^th Walking Group 4pm Contact: Alene or Julia

19^th Hepatitis Testing Day event – REGISTRATION REQUIRED 10am-2pm Contact: Freda

20^th Healthy Happy Hour 11am-12pm Contact: Alene or Julia

21^st Walking Group 4pm Contact: Alene or Julia

25^th MEMORIAL DAY – ABSOLUTECARE IS CLOSED

27^th Lunch & Learn – “Diabetes & HIV” 12-1pm Contact: Freda

28^th Walking Group 4pm Contact: Alene or Julia

Contacts:

Freda: 404-231-4431 ext 132

Alene: 404-231-4431 ext 122

Julia: 404-231-4431 ext 161

 

Free Hepatitis C Testing and Education Event

FREE Hepatitis C Testing & Education Event

Tuesday, May 19th from 10am – 2pm

Join us for free Hepatitis testing, lunch, and educational sessions. Lunch & Learn will be held from 12-1pm. Registration is REQUIRED.

To register, please fill out the attached form, indicating your preferred testing time frame and return to social@absolutecarehealth.com or Freda Jones @ AbsoluteCARE 404.231.4431.

You will receive a confirmation of your time slot prior to the event. We look forward to seeing you! □ 10:00-10:15am □ 10:45-11:00am □ 11:30-11:45am □ 1:15–1:30pm □ 10:15–10:30am □ 11:00–11:15am □ 11:45am-12:00pm □ 1:30-1:45pm □ 10:30-10:45am □ 11:15a–11:30am □ 1:00-1:15pm □ 1:45-2:00pm

Demographics:
_______
Name Phone Number
E-mail Address
City of Residence Zip Code County of Residence
Birth date: / / Age:
Gender: □ Male □ Female □ Transgender (MTF) □ Transgender (FTM)
Ethnicity (mark only one): Race (mark all that apply):
□ Hispanic or Latino □ Asian
□ Non- Hispanic or Latino □ Black or African American
□ Decline to Answer □ Native American or Alaskan Native
□ Native Hawaiian or Pacific Islander
□ White
□ Other __________________
□ Decline to Answer

AbsoluteCARE Nutrition Department’s Recipe of the Month – April 2015

The Nutrition Department’s April Recipe of the Month is Stewed Zucchini & Cherry Tomatoes. Give it a try & let us know if you like it! (We’ve even heard it’s kid-approved!)

Makes: 4 Servings (1/2 cup=serving)

INGREDIENTS

3 medium squash (about 8 oz)

1 teaspoon (t.) canola oil

4 medium garlic cloves

2 Tablespoons (T.) fat-free, low-sodium chicken broth

½ cup cherry tomatoes, cut in half

2 T. chopped fresh basil leaves or 1 t. dried, crumbled basil

1/8 t. pepper

2 T. shredded or grated Romano cheese

DIRECTIONS

Cut the squash into ½ inch slices. Heat a medium saucepan over medium heat. Pour the oil into the pan and swirl to coat the bottom. Cook the garlic for 2-3 minutes, or until light golden brown, stirring occasionally.

Stir in the squash. Cook for 1-2 minutes, or until the squash is tender-crisp, stirring occasionally. Pour in the broth. Reduce the heat and simmer, covered, for 5 minutes, or until the squash is tender, stirring occasionally.

Stir in the tomatoes, basil, and peppers. Cook for 1-2, or until the tomatoes are warmed through.

Transfer the mixture to a serving bowl. Sprinkle with the Romano cheese.

NUTRITION INFORMATION (for each serving)

Calories: 42

Fat: 2 grams

Saturated fat: .5 grams

Polyunsaturated fat: .5 grams

Monounsaturated fat: .5 grams

Cholesterol: 1 milligram

Total Carbohydrates: 6 grams

Fiber: 2 grams

Sugar: 3 grams

Sodium: 32 milligrams

Protein: 2 grams

FROM

American Heart Association. (2005). No-Fad Diet: A Personal Plan for Healthy Weight Loss. New York: Clarkson Potter. P 368.