In the News

As the start of the new year has come and gone, many of my previous patients have been inundated with the ritual beginning of the year change of presrciption requestions.  Often the story goes like this:

• "The Lantus (glargine insulin) that you prescribed for Mrs. Jones is no longer covered by her insurance; please change it to Basaglar (glargine insulin), which is covered and the new preferred formulation."
• "Patient's Xarelto, a direct oral anticoagulant, is no longer being covered by their insurance plan this year; please change them over to warfarin."
• "Your prescription for Mr. Smith's Valsartan is no longer valid; it was rejected when he attempted to fill it at the pharmacy. Please change to an alternate covered therapy."
• "The mesalamine that your patient has been using for 20 years now has a $600 co-pay; please change her medication to something -- anything -- else."

All very nicely worded, all very polite, and all completely ridiculous. This process highlights just one more example of how we have let ourselves be railroaded into being told how to take care of our patients by the insurance companies.  

The backstory to all of this medical switich is that insurance companies are in this to make money, and that every year they renegotiate with the pharmaceutical companies, and save a nickel on each prescription when they change from Brand X over to Brand Y as their "preferred medication" in a particular class.

One of the patients this year for whom I had to change their insulin formulation, was changed from that very formulation to a different one last year, and that had been changed again the year before.

This cannot help us take care of patients; this cannot lead to better care. This can only lead to more profit for insurance companies and pharmaceutical manufacturers. 

We also hear from the insurance companies, "Your patient is entitled to 30 visits with their physical therapist this year; please enter a new referral so that this can be processed by their insurance company." For whose benefit?

So much of this leads to the beginning-of-the-year bombardment that we all face: the onslaught of messages that really don't help us take care of patients, that really don't lead to better care, more collaboration, or improved communication. It is a shame on us that we have let this happen, that we continue to let this happen. This is the busywork that grinds us down, that bruises our souls, and it's time we said no. Just, no.

As a member for the Foundations DPC community, you will not have to face these challenges batting Goliath - the insurance companies.  Your your membership, we will work with you to ensure that you are getting the best and most appropriate treatment for your specific needs - this will not be dictated based on which insurance company you are with (or even which side of the bed the insurance company representative woke up on).  At Foundations DPC, you are our primary focus and you are in good hands with us.

Happy new year! I hope the holidays have been full of rest and sweet times with friends and family. Looking back at 2022, I want to thank all of you for entrusting my team and me to care for you. I can’t believe our doors have been open for over a year now, and I’m eager to see what lies ahead in 2023.

We are excited to welcome many new members to the Foundations family. The start of the new year is a perfect time to make annual check-up appointments for the year ahead, reflect on healthy habits, and get your general wellness routine in order. Schedule time with me either in-person or over the phone so we can help you obtain your 2023 health goals together.

Breathe. How often we hurry through life and its unending fast-paced “hustle” without stopping to ponder how it’s possible to fling our bodies at record-breaking speeds through space. Many systems are required to “symphonically” integrate to give us life to live our American lifestyle. This month let us focus on THE RESPIRATORY SYSTEM.

What a precious gift, the gift of breath. Can you acknowledge the gift of “conscious breath” in our distracted world? I challenge you this quarter to swap the interruption of “scrolling” with the interruption of ONE CONSCIOUS BREATH. Just one. Try it. Then notice.  My prayer for you this quarter is that you would be able to stop once a day and take a deep breath - then notice the miraculousness of ONE CONSCIOUS BREATH.

According to data from the Kaiser Family Foundation, the average annual out-of-pocket cost for an individual with employer-based health insurance was $1,218 in 2022. However, for those without insurance, the average annual out-of-pocket cost can be significantly higher.

Some ways to save on healthcare costs include:

• Build a relationship with a Direct Primary Care Physician like Foundations DPC, and utilze their services as much as possible.
• Leaning in on the Foundations DPC services to provide access to the best prices on prescription drugs (including generic alternatives to brand-name drugs)
• Using preventive care services
• Take a High Deductible Health Plan (HDHP) with a Health Savings Account (HSA)

Through Foundations, we are your one-stop primary care provider to help you navigate all your healthcare needs.  We start with developing a welness and prevention program so that we avoid costly illness.   Our personalized and individualized plans ensure that we collectively achieve your targeted health goals.  

At Foundations, we provide a 360 approach in meeting the individual needs of our members with diabetes (type 1 and type 2).

1. Regular monitoring of blood glucose levels: Patients with type 1 diabetes need to regularly check their blood sugar levels in order to adjust their insulin doses and monitor for potential complications.

2. Insulin therapy: Patients with type 1 diabetes require insulin therapy to replace the insulin that their bodies are not producing. Our staff works with you to determine the appropriate insulin regimen, including the type and dosage of insulin.

3. Diet and exercise: At Foundations, we provide guidance and support for the patient to maintain a healthy diet and engage in regular physical activity to help manage blood sugar levels.  We include wellness consults and build in a holistic therapies to complement the management of your insulin.  

4. Regular check-ups: The patient should have regular check-ups at Foundations to monitor for complications and adjust their treatment plan as needed.

5. Education and self-management: We have a library of education and resources to help you learn how to manage your diabetes, including how to recognize and treat high and low blood sugar, how to administer insulin, and how to recognize and prevent complications.

6. Communication with the Doctor: Through Foundations, you have an open line of communication with Dr. Emily McLaurin, who can provide guidance and support on complex cases, and also refer patients when needed.

Bioidentical hormones are processed hormones designed to mimic the hormones made by your body’s glands. Taking bioidentical hormones can help people who experience symptoms of low or unbalanced hormones. This is often the case for people experiencing symptoms of perimenopause or menopause.

Hormones are chemicals made by your endocrine glands. They are messengers that tell other parts of your body how and when to work. Hormones affect many systems and functions in your body. Even the slightest imbalance can cause symptoms that interfere with your day. Healthcare providers may recommend hormone replacement therapy as a treatment for these symptoms.

Bioidentical hormone therapy (BHRT) uses processed hormones that come from plants. Estrogen, progesterone and testosterone are the most commonly used bioidentical hormones.

Some prescription forms of bioidentical hormones are premade by drug companies. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved certain types of bioidentical hormones. Other forms of bioidentical hormones are custom-made by a pharmacist based on a healthcare provider's prescription. These are compounded (or mixed) bioidentical hormones.

May is Melanoma Awareness Month, and as your Direct Primary Care physician, I want to help you stay sun-savvy and protect your skin from the harmful effects of ultraviolet (UV) radiation. Melanoma, the most dangerous form of skin cancer, can develop from excessive exposure to the sun or tanning beds. However, with the right precautions and early detection, it is often preventable and treatable.

The first step in protecting your skin is understanding the importance of sunscreen. A broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 is essential to shield your skin from both UVA and UVB rays. Remember to apply sunscreen generously at least 30 minutes before sun exposure and reapply every two hours or after swimming or sweating.

In addition to using sunscreen, other sun protection measures include wearing protective clothing, seeking shade during peak sun hours (usually between 10 AM and 4 PM), and wearing sunglasses with UV protection.

It's also crucial to monitor your skin for any changes or new growths. Regular self-examinations can help detect melanoma early when it's most treatable. Be sure to check your skin once a month, paying close attention to any moles or spots that exhibit the ABCDEs of melanoma: Asymmetry, Border irregularity, Color variations, Diameter larger than a pencil eraser, and Evolution or change in appearance.

If you notice any suspicious skin changes or have concerns about your risk for melanoma, please don't hesitate to schedule an appointment with me. I am here to support your skin health and help you take the necessary steps to reduce your risk.

In celebration of Melanoma Awareness Month, our clinic is offering a selection of phyisican-recommended sunscreens and moisturizers. These products are designed to keep your skin healthy and hydrated throughout the sunny months of May and the summer season. Stop by our office to purchase these essentials and ensure that you're well-equipped to enjoy the sunshine safely.  Together, let's make Melanoma Awareness Month a time for sun protection, skin care, and staying sun-savvy all summer long!

The 7-Minute Workout, originally published in the American College of Sports Medicine's Health & Fitness Journal, is a high-intensity interval training (HIIT) program designed to deliver maximum benefits in a short amount of time. Consisting of 12 exercises performed for 30 seconds each, with 10-second rest intervals, this workout targets various muscle groups and can be done anywhere, anytime, with no special equipment required.

Several studies have demonstrated the effectiveness of the 7-Minute Workout in improving cardiovascular health. One study conducted by researchers at the McMaster University in Ontario, Canada, found that participants who engaged in HIIT workouts, similar to the 7-Minute Workout, experienced significant improvements in blood pressure, blood sugar, and aerobic capacity. These factors play a crucial role in reducing the risk of heart disease, stroke, and diabetes.

The 7-Minute Workout App is an excellent tool for those with busy schedules or limited access to a gym, as it provides a quick and effective way to incorporate exercise into your daily routine. The app offers easy-to-follow video demonstrations, a timer, and even customizable workout plans to accommodate various fitness levels and preferences.

As with any new exercise program, it's essential to consult with your healthcare provider before getting started. Please feel free to reach out to me if you have any questions or concerns about whether the 7-Minute Workout is suitable for you.

Incorporating the 7-Minute Workout into your routine is a convenient way to improve your cardiovascular health and overall well-being. So, why not give it a try? Just seven minutes a day could make a significant difference in your long-term health.

This month, I challenge you to "eat the colors of the rainbow" by incorporating a variety of colorful fruits, vegetables, and other nutrient-dense foods into your diet. Remember, food is medicine, and consuming a diverse range of nutrients is key to maintaining optimal health.

Each color group in the rainbow represents different vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that play a vital role in our well-being. Here's a brief overview of the benefits of eating a colorful diet:

• Red: Rich in antioxidants like lycopene and anthocyanins, red fruits and vegetables (e.g., tomatoes, red bell peppers, strawberries, and cherries) support heart health and provide anti-inflammatory properties.
• Orange and Yellow: Packed with beta-carotene, vitamin C, and flavonoids, orange and yellow foods (e.g., carrots, sweet potatoes, oranges, and mangoes) promote eye health, boost the immune system, and aid in collagen production.
• Green: Leafy greens and green vegetables (e.g., spinach, kale, broccoli, and avocado) are full of essential nutrients like vitamin K, folic acid, and iron, which support bone health, blood cell production, and detoxification processes.
• Blue and Purple: High in antioxidants like resveratrol and anthocyanins, blue and purple foods (e.g., blueberries, blackberries, eggplant, and purple cabbage) protect against cellular damage, support brain health, and reduce inflammation.
• White and Brown: Containing nutrients like potassium, fiber, and allicin, white and brown foods (e.g., bananas, cauliflower, mushrooms, and onions) help regulate blood pressure, support digestion, and promote heart health.