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RCMS News and Events

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Annual Reports

Local heros recognized during national rural health day

11/21/2023

 
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Thursday, November 16 was National Rural Health Day. MHA hosted an event where our rural health care heroes were recognized by California State Assemblymember Jim Wood. Mendocino County Supervisor Ted Williams also was in attendance. Jim Wood presented a certificate of recognition to the following community members. Congratulations to RCMS and our 8 team members.
 
RCMS:
  • Maryann Watts – for her work on COVID and flu vaccine clinics. Maryann served a vital role during the pandemic by giving people the resources they needed to reduce the spread of COVID in the community.  
  • Afsoon Foorohar – for being an outstanding and caring provider that understands the importance of collaboration and teamwork. 
  • Barb Brittell – for being an outstanding and caring provider and for her years of unwavering commitment to delivering quality urgent care services to the community. 
  • Carolyn Hand – for her tireless efforts helping individuals experiencing addiction by delivering outstanding person-centered care and for advocating for vulnerable populations.
  • Lois Falk – for her long-term care that she has given to our community members. Lois has been dedicated to delivering quality services to our community for decades. She demonstrates compassion and care for patients at their most vulnerable times through the Home Health program. 
  • Jessi Maness – for her commitment to helping those with addiction issues. Jessi's interest in helping people with their mental health through compassion and understanding is stellar. She goes above and beyond the call of duty by coordinating multi-agency group meetings to improve communication and the delivery of services. She supports Mendonoma Health's Peer Recovery Support groups by periodically implementing group therapy strategies during recovery meetings. 
  • Dawn McQuarrie – for all the behind the scenes work that help everyone to provide care to our community. Dawn's value is unmeasurable. She ensures that the administrative side of healthcare is addressed, including risk and compliance, grant writing, outreach, development, and more, is complete so that medical providers can show up to serve patients. This work happens behind the scenes but is the backbone of a clinical practice. 
  • Liz Santana – Liz is an excellent medical assistant that truly cares for every patient that she sees. She works collaboratively to ensure patients have what they need to improve their health and approaches her work with positivity and kindness. 
 
CLSD:
  • Dave Crowl – for his leadership to the CLSD team. Additionally, Dave has played a huge role in bolstering collaboration between local organizations. He is dedicated to improving our local health care delivery system and makes decisions based on his knowledge of prevention strategies that improve health outcomes. 
  • Chris Ottoloni – for his innovations and willingness to do what is needed for our community. Chris is also a key player in the development of the community's first mobile health clinic. 
  • Bronwyn Golly – Bronwyn was raised in the community and came back after pursuing education to become a paramedic. She has served the community for more than a decade as both a paramedic and firefighter. She delivers care with compassion at the center of her work. She understands the importance of collaboration and embraces it at every opportunity. 
 
MHA:
  • Heather Regelbrugge – for her unwavering commitment to our community and willingness to help during any crisis that presents itself in people's lives. She has been at the core of program development and implementation at MHA since its launch in 2017.
  • Janis Sites – for all the behind scenes work that help everyone provide services to our community Janis is the heartbeat of MHA, anticipating all of the administrative and programmatic needs of the organization, which is what helps the organization run smoothly. Janis has been with MHA since 2017 and has played an instrumental role in its development and sustainability. 
  • Stephanie Chapman – for her unwavering commitment to our community and willingness to help in any crisis that presents itself in people's lives. As the provider of bilingual services at MHA, she is the case manager for a third of the clients served at MHA. 
  • Micheline White – for all that you have done to make MHA what it is today and for bringing a mobile clinic to our community. Micheline’s dedication to improving access to resources in the community, her dedication to creative solutions and for not being afraid of taking on the hard work to get things done. 
  • Leslie Tittle – Leslie is a shining star in our community. She is the board chair of MHA, is a board member for CLSD, and works hard to ensure Project Santa is provided during the holidays for local families in need. Her experience as a healthcare professional has contributed to multiple projects in the community. She was on the committee that helped develop and launch MHA and always keeps the community at the center of decision-making for strategic plans and the delivery of programs.

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And the Survey Says...

11/20/2023

 
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We send surveys to our patients to get their feedback on our service. The feedback helps us know what we are doing right and where we can get better.

The results of the survey are used by our performance improvement and quality improvement teams and are actively used to improve our delivery and provide you with the best possible service.

Here are some excerpts from our recent survey responses:

 
"Your whole crew here are very good."

"I live in the Bay Area. I was visiting Gualala. Very impressed with RCMS. Fantastic medical care."

"I was not told to fast before my appointment (did not expect lab work) so results are questionable."

"Helpful staff. Clean quiet facility, all very respectful. So glad it's in the community!"

"I get better care from RCMS than I have in my old doctor's office. I was very unhappy with my last doctor and medical office. I love RCMS and I tell everyone about you."

November is American Diabetes Awareness Month

11/18/2023

 
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November is National Diabetes Month, a time when communities across the country seek to bring attention to diabetes. This year’s focus is on taking action to prevent diabetes health problems.

Diabetes is a disease that occurs when your blood glucose, also called blood sugar, is too high. It affects about 37 million Americans, including adults and youth. Diabetes can damage the eyes, kidneys, nerves, and heart, and it is linked to some types of cancer.
 
But there’s also good news: Taking charge of your health may help you prevent diabetes health problems.
 
Tips to get started
 
Manage your blood glucose, blood pressure, and cholesterol levels.
Research shows that managing your diabetes as soon as possible after diagnosis may help prevent diabetes health problems. You can start by managing your diabetes ABCs.
  • A is for the A1C test that health care professionals use to measure your average blood glucose levels. Some people with diabetes also use devices to track their blood glucose throughout the day and night.
  • B is for blood pressure.
  • C is for cholesterol.
Ask your health care team what your ABCs goals should be.
 
Take small steps toward healthy habits.
Lifestyle habits such as planning healthy meals, being physically active, getting enough sleep, and not smoking may help you manage your diabetes ABCs. You don’t have to do it all at once. Start slow and build healthier habits from there.
 
Take your medicines on time.
Remember to take your medicines even if you feel healthy. Talk with your doctor or pharmacist if you have trouble taking your medicines on time or at the correct dose.
 
Reach or maintain a healthy weight.
If you have overweight or obesity, ask your primary care provider if healthy eating, physical activity, or other weight-loss treatments may help you manage your weight.
 
Take care of your mental health.
Managing diabetes can be hard. If you feel down, sad, or overwhelmed, learn about healthy wasy to cope with stress. Consider talking to a mental health counselor or joining a support group.
 
Work with your health care team.
Managing diabetes takes a team. Your health care team may include a primary care provider, diabetes specialist, registered dietitian, or certified diabetes educator. Ask your primary care provider if you should talk with other health care professionals about your diabetes.
 
Diabetes medicines, devices, and office visits can be expensive. A social worker or a member of your health care team may be able to help you find community resources or financial help for diabetes care.

For more information please visit the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Disease.

National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Disease

November 16 is National Rural Health Day

11/16/2023

 
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The National Organization of State Offices of Rural Health (NOSORH) sets aside the third Thursday of every November to celebrate National Rural Health Day (NRHD). NRHD is an opportunity to
“Celebrate the Power of Rural” by honoring the selfless, community-minded spirit that prevails in rural America. NRHD showcases the efforts of rural healthcare providers, State Offices of Rural Health and other rural stakeholders to address the unique healthcare challenges that rural citizens face today and into the future.

The theme this year is Innovation in Rural Health Care Delivery – a theme that RCMS embraces today and throughout its 40+ years history.

November Holiday Hours

11/13/2023

 
As we approach the Thanksgiving holiday weekend, we want to ensure you have the latest information on RCMS hours and services during this time.

Please note that RCMS adheres to federal guidelines and will be closed for most major federally recognized holidays, including Thanksgiving. We appreciate your understanding.

Even during holidays and weekends, our Urgent Care services remain available. You can access these services by calling (707) 884-4005 between 8 am and 6 pm. Our Registered Nurse advice line is also ready to assist with any non-emergency concerns after hours.

Remember, for emergencies, always dial 911.
We wish you a safe and joyous holiday season!
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November is COPD Awareness Month

11/13/2023

 
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What is COPD?
COPD, or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, is a progressive disease that makes it hard to breathe. Progressive means the disease gets worse over time.
 
COPD can cause coughing that produces large amounts of a slimy substance called mucus, wheezing, shortness of breath, chest tightness, and other symptoms.
​

COPD can often be prevented. Cigarette smoking is the leading cause of COPD. Most people who have COPD smoke or used to smoke. However, up to 25 percent of people with COPD never smoked. Long-term exposure to other lung irritants—such as air pollution, chemical fumes, or dusts—also may contribute to COPD. A rare genetic condition called alpha-1 antitrypsin (AAT) deficiency can also cause the disease.
 
Causes
Long-term exposure to lung irritants that damage the lungs and the airways usually is the cause of COPD.
In the United States, the most common irritant that causes COPD is cigarette smoke. Pipe, cigar, and other types of tobacco smoke also can cause COPD, especially if the smoke is inhaled.
 
Breathing in secondhand smoke, which is in the air from other people smoking; air pollution; or chemical fumes or dusts from the environment or workplace also can contribute to COPD.
 
Rarely, a genetic condition called alpha-1 antitrypsin (AAT) may play a role in causing COPD. People who have this condition have low blood levels of AAT—a protein made in the liver. Having a low level of the AAT protein can lead to lung damage and COPD if you are exposed to smoke or other lung irritants. If you have alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency and also smoke, COPD can worsen very quickly.
 
Some people who have asthma can develop COPD. Asthma is a chronic lung disease that inflames and narrows the airways. Treatment usually can reverse the inflammation and narrowing that occurs in asthma. 
 
Outlook
COPD is a major cause of disability, and it is the fourth leading cause of death in the United States. Currently, 16 million people are diagnosed with COPD. Many more people may have the disease and not even know it.
 
COPD develops slowly. Symptoms often worsen over time and can limit your ability to do routine activities. Severe COPD may prevent you from doing even basic activities like walking, cooking, or taking care of yourself.
 
Most of the time, COPD is diagnosed in middle-aged or older adults. The disease is not contagious, meaning it cannot be passed from person to person.
 
COPD is the result of damage to the lungs from smoking cigarettes or by breathing in second-hand smoke or other lung irritants—such as air pollution, chemical fumes, or dusts. COPD has no cure yet, and doctors do not know how to reverse the damage to the lungs. However, treatments and lifestyle changes can help you feel better, stay more active, and slow the progress of the disease.
 
Prevent Complications and Slow the Progression of COPD
If you have COPD, the most important step you can take is to quit smoking. Quitting can help prevent complications and slow the progression of the disease. You also should avoid exposure to the lung irritants mentioned above.
 
Follow your treatments for COPD exactly as your doctor prescribes. They can help you breathe easier, stay more active, and avoid or manage severe symptoms.
 
Talk with your doctor about whether and when you should get flu, or influenza, and pneumonia vaccines. These vaccines can lower your chances of getting these illnesses, which are major health risks for people who have COPD.

For more information visit the National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute.

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Medicare Annual Choices and Changes Seminar November 14

11/12/2023

 
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COVID-19 and High Dose Flu Clinic 11/11/23

11/11/2023

 
Genoa Healthcare Pharmacy will be hosting a high dose flu vaccine clinic for ages 65+, and a COVID-19 vaccine clinic for ages 16+ on:
Saturday, November 11
10:00am to 2:00pm
At Genoa Healthcare Pharmacy
39150 Ocean Drive, Suite 1
Gualala


Please bring your insurance card and wear loose fitting clothing that allows easy access to the upper arm. 
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Pharmacy Update 11/1/23

11/1/2023

 
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​It has been about 6 weeks since the Genoa Pharmacy opened here in Gualala in the Sea Watch Building across the street from RCMS Gualala Clinic. It is time to provide some updates to the community.

This Pharmacy was built from the ground up, and had to open its doors before we were allowed to apply for some of the licenses and contracts required by law. As such, these first weeks were spent getting in place the needed contracts with Medicare and other private insurance companies so that we can serve their members. We are still working on getting the MediCal contract finalized. These requirements were beyond our control in that we had to work through Government Agencies.

We also had to purchase prescription medications from wholesalers who could come to Gualala only once or twice each week due of the remoteness of our location. Additionally, it has been difficult to recruit the necessary pharmacy staff in the face of a limited candidate pool, housing difficulties, etc. These issues have slowed down operational goals for our pharmacy somewhat.

We held a COVID vaccination clinic recently – but encountered significant difficulties in getting real-time insurance approvals.

But, we are beginning to get over the bumps in the road:
  • Besides a pharmacist, we now have a pharmacy clerk starting this week.
  • We have established contracts with Medicare and most major private insurances (we are still working through Medical).
  • We continue to build the inventory of drugs from the suppliers. Besides commonly prescribed pharmaceuticals we are also stocking up on antibiotics, Children’s medications, and Cold and Flu medications.
  • To date, we have registered more than 100 patients and transferred their prescriptions. We have successfully filled more than 200 prescriptions.
  • We will be receiving more vaccines – COVID, high dose flu, Shingles, and others. We plan to schedule another vaccination clinic at the pharmacy soon. We are addressing the insurance approval issues for vaccinations that were unexpectedly encountered at the first clinic.
  • Our pharmacy partner, Genoa Healthcare, is bringing in more resources to Gualala to address many of the start-up issues. Genoa is a large 700-pharmacy national chain, fully committed to making our local pharmacy a success.

​We appreciate your patience and understanding as we go through this process.

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  • Home
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