News from Lisa Larkin, MD, and Associates

Happy February!

You may know that this month is Heart Health Month. Even thought heart disease is the leading cause of death for both men and women, it is also one of the most preventable. This month’s blog addresses heart health specifically in women, as heart disease was once falsely considered “only a man’s disease.”

Registered dietitian Amy Paterno also provides some practical tips for adopting a heart-healthy diet.

Construction on our Mariemont office is moving along rapidly, and we’re excited that we’re on track to open in April. Watch more more information about our community-wide open house - complete with Graeter's ice cream - May 7, from 1 - 3 pm.

Lastly, be sure to check out our Practice News, including how to watch and share our new informational videos. Dr. Larkin’s patients should also take note of her upcoming out-of-office time (3/10 – 3/30) as she will be taking her honeymoon! Dr. Wright and Anna Fox, CNP, will be available to cover for her during regular office hours.

Thank you for allowing us to partner in your heath care!

Lisa Larkin, MD, and Associates

ON THE BLOG

Go Red for Women’s Heart Health in February

by Lisa Larkin, MD, FACP, NCMP, IF

One in four women in the U.S. will die from heart disease – the leading cause of death in women. This is an important statistic as for years, heart disease was considered a “man’s” issue; women needn’t worry. We now know this is not true, and women need to be educated and proactive in managing their risks and preventing heart disease. (Read more...)

NUTRITION

by Amy Paterno, RD

February is all about the heart! Let's keep it strong by incorporating the following heart healthy nutrients in our diets:

Omega -3 fatty acids help lower triglycerides and have anti-coagulation properties to keep our blood flowing. Foods high in Omega 3's include: salmon, flaxseeds, spinach and soy beans.
Fiber helps lower "bad" LDL cholesterol. Foods high in fiber include: oatmeal, beans, peas, brown rice, apples (with skin), berries, veggies, and barley.
Monounsaturated fats raise "good" HDL cholesterol and lower "bad" LDL cholesterol. Swap olive oil for butter and avocado for mayonnaise.

And because we think it is important to have some fun, treat yourself to 4 oz of red wine or 1 oz of 70% dark chocolate. It's good for your heart!

EMPLOYEE SPOTLIGHT

Carrie Deaton

Administrative Director

There are “right-brained” people and there are “left-brained” people. And then there’s our Administrative Director Carrie Deaton.

Most people tend to think of himself or herself as either analytical or creative; a math person or an artist. Carrie crosses both boxes with ease, fortunately, as she shoulders much of the administrative responsibilities that keep our office running smoothly. (Read more...)

PRACTICE NEWS

Share the Knowledge about DPC
We know the Direct Primary Care (DPC) model is new, and many people aren’t aware of its benefits. To help, we’ve created a series of three, brief videos that explain the evolution of primary care and why so many patients and doctors are turning to DPC, the numbers behind DPC, and how to determine if DPC is right for you. Check them out on our You Tube channel or here on our website, and be sure to share them with family and friends who might want to learn more.

Happy Honeymooning!
Just a note to let you know that Dr. Larkin will be away for several weeks in March (3/10 - 3/30) as she is traveling to New Zealand for her honeymoon! Dr. Larkin’s patients will have access to her partners (Dr. Wright and Anna Fox, CNP) as needed in her absence, during regular business hours. If you have any questions or urgent needs, please call the office (513.760.5511.)

DIRECT PRIMARY CARE

AAFP Applauds Bill to Ease Direct Primary Care Payment

Legislation Would Allow Use of HSAs For Monthly Fees

Some family physicians might be intrigued by the idea of direct primary care (DPC) but hesitate to adopt this emerging model because of regulatory limitations.

Federal lawmakers who are aware of the growing interest in DPC have again this month introduced legislation that aims to make it easier for physicians and patients to choose this model. Two legislators, Reps. Erik Paulsen, R-Minn., and Earl Blumenauer, D-Ore., recently introduced the Primary Care Enhancement Act of 2017,(www.congress.gov) which would change tax laws that are hindering the growth of DPC.