Summer Safety: Beat the Heat!
As the summer months bring higher temperatures, it's important to stay safe in the heat. Hydrate frequently, wear lightweight clothing, and apply sunscreen regularly. Avoid strenuous activities during peak sun hours, and seek shade or air-conditioned environments whenever possible. If you experience signs of heat exhaustion, such as dizziness, nausea, or excessive sweating, contact your healthcare provider immediately.
It is very important to remember that hot weather can flare up lung conditions, such as asthma, chronic bronchitis, emphysema, and COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease). Remember to call us right away if this is happening, we have same-day appointments available for you! Also, if you are low on your rescue inhalers, call today so we can send a refill to the pharmacy.
Stay cool and take care of your health this summer!
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Spring Enrollment Fair
In May, WCHC participated in the CCPS Spring Enrollment Fair at North East Elementary. This event was hosted by the Judy Center of Cecil County in partnership with CCPS in an effort to encourage families to register students beginning school for the first time in the fall. John Ness, WCHC CEO, is pictured here with members of the Judy Center staff. Learn more about early childhood enrollment for CCPS HERE.
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SunFest 2024
This year WCHC was proud to serve as both a sponsor and a vendor for Rising Sun Chamber of Commerce's 24th Annual SunFest. This event is an important tradition in the Rising Sun community and was extremely well-attended! We love participating in community events, as they bring us closer together, foster connections, and create memories with our neighbors!
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Sports Physicals Night
WCHC was proud to participate in the sports physicals event in June hosted by ChristianaCare Union Hospital and Cecil County Public Schools. The event was attended by almost 600 middle and high school student athletes. Special thanks to the WCHC providers who participated- Mozella Williams, MD; Sharon Holloway, CRNP; ToriAnne Yetter, PA-C; Jessica Raubfogel, FNP.
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Staff Volunteers at PPZ
Last week WCHC team members volunteered their time at Plumpton Park Zoo, contributing to the well-being of the wildlife and enhance visitor experiences. Two additional volunteer of opportunities are planned at the zoo during the months of July and August.
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WCHC & CCHD Behavioral Health Meeting
Earlier this month, the WCHC Clinician team received an informative update from Mike Massuli, Deputy Director of the Cecil County Health Department Behavioral Health Division. They learned that while Cecil County continues to struggle with the tragic consequences of opiate use disorder, we also lead the way in evidenced-based interventions and successes.
For assistance with substance-related issues, call CATCH (443-245-3257, 24/7). CATCH provides immediate connection with a Peer Recovery Specialist who can provide support, guidance, and resource coordination for individuals experiencing substance use disorder, their families, or professionals. Additional information about local resources can be found at RewriteYourScript.org.
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Mobile Van Team & Revive Us Ministries Partners for Food Delivery
Last week, the WCHC mobile van team traveled with the Revive Us Ministry to visit some of the communities in Aberdeen. They were then able to deliver the additional food during their scheduled visit to Harford Family House.
It has been a great experience to serve the community in Aberdeen and to have the opportunity to partner with other community resources along the way.
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Each June, the American Dental Association (ADA) sheds light on the importance of oral health care during Oral Health Month. Many dental conditions are highly prevalent in the U.S. due to inadequate prevention or treatment. The CDC estimates that more than 1 in 4 adults have untreated tooth decay, almost half of all adults over 30 show signs of gum disease, and nearly 1 in 10 adults have severe gum disease.
You can help prevent painful tooth and gums conditions by following some simple steps:
- Brush your teeth at least twice each day
- Floss your teeth every day
- If you chew gum, use only sugarless gum
- Do not use any tobacco products
- Incorporate more vegetables and less sugary drinks and snacks into your diet
- Meet with your primary care provider to ensure that any underlying disease is controlled and doesn’t contribute to poor oral health outcomes
- Schedule regular dental cleanings every six months
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June marks Alzheimer's & Brain Awareness Month, a time dedicated to increasing awareness about Alzheimer's disease and other dementias, while advocating for brain health. This month highlights the importance of sharing any concerns about memory or cognitive changes with your primary care provider.
Alzheimer's disease, the most common form of dementia, affects millions of individuals worldwide. Early detection is crucial, as it can lead to better management and improved quality of life. Unfortunately, many people hesitate to discuss memory lapses or cognitive difficulties, often attributing these changes to normal aging or fearing a diagnosis.
Your primary care provider is your first line of defense in maintaining brain health. They can perform initial assessments and, if necessary, refer you to specialists for further evaluation. By discussing your concerns openly, you enable early intervention, which can slow the progression of symptoms and provide access to valuable resources and support networks.
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Mental Health Matters
Helping to reduce the stigma surrounding mental health.
LGBTQ Pride Month, celebrated every June, is a time dedicated to recognizing the contributions and struggles of the LGBTQ community. It also serves as an educational platform, raising awareness about the issues facing LGBTQ people, including discrimination, mental health challenges, and the need for legal protections. Allies play a crucial role during this time, showing support and advocating for change alongside LGBTQ individuals. Pride Month acknowledges the progress made while recognizing the work still needed to achieve full equality.
At WCHC, we strive to create an environment where everyone feels a sense of belonging. To help cultivate a safe space for individuals to express who they are and build a community, WCHC has started an LGBTQIA+ Support Group that meets on the fourth Tuesday of each month with both in-person and virtual attendance options. The next meeting will occur on June 25. See the graphic below for more information.
WCHC Behavioral Health is currently accepting new patients for both in-person and telehealth medication management. We are currently on a waitlist for therapy services. If you, or someone you know, are in need of care, please call the office today at 410-378-9696 to schedule.
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Join the WCHC Team!
You can check out all of our job openings and apply on the Employment Page of our website.
- Dentist - PRN or part time
- LCSW-C/ LCPC - Full time
- Optometrist - Part time
Featured Job Opening:
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The Maryland Food Bank Mobile Market will be back at West Cecil Health Center in Conowingo (49 Rock Springs Rd.) on Tuesday, June 18, from 12-2PM (while supplies last!). The truck will be located in the back parking lot.
Next month, WCHC will officially begin our new partnership with Conowingo Baptist Church which will serve as the new location for the Maryland Food Bank event each month beginning in July. We are excited for the additional space that this new location will provide!
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CCPS & HCPS Summer Meals Program Information
Cecil and Harford County Public Schools will once again be offering summer meals for children 18 years and younger. Information for each program is included below.
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The mission of West Cecil Health Center is to provide personal, accessible, and reliable care for our community. | | | | |