Central Ozarks Medical Center: March 2017

Tuesday, March 28, 2017

American Diabetes Alert Day

Your body is a complex, interconnected machine. In order to survive and thrive, your body relies on a complicated network of internal and external systems. When these systems work together cohesively, the body functions well. These people typically lead long, healthy lives.

Unfortunately, some people are not quite so lucky. When the body's systems do not work together properly, it creates a state of dis-ease ("disease"). At Central Ozarks Medical Center, our job is to help prevent and remedy these states of dis-ease so that our patients may lead healthier lives. In honor of American Diabetes Alert Day on March 28, we are using this week's blog to take a closer look at diabetes - a dangerous disease that threatens millions of today's Americans.

How Diabetes Works

Food is energy. When you eat, your body must break down the food you consume into usable energy. Part of this process involves breaking the sugars in your food down into glucose. The pancreas releases a hormone called insulin that helps your cells internalize the glucose so they can use its energy.

In people with diabetes, there is a disconnect in this system. For various reasons, the cells do not have a chance to use the energy in the glucose. As a result, the cells may starve and the amount of glucose in the blood (commonly called "blood sugar level") may reach dangerous levels. Diabetes typically manifests in two primary forms: type 1 and type 2.

Type 1 diabetes typically affects children and teens. In type 1 diabetes, the body does not recognize the cells that identify glucose levels and produce appropriate amounts of insulin as a part of itself. As a result, the immune system attacks and destroys these cells, rendering the body unable to produce needed insulin. Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune disease. People diagnosed with type 1 diabetes often receive insulin shots several times per day.
Type 2 diabetes is often called "adult onset" diabetes, as it typically does not manifest in people until they are at least 35 years of age. Unlike those diagnosed with type 1 diabetes, people with type 2 diabetes are able to produce some of their own insulin. However, there is still a break down somewhere in the process. They may produce incorrect amounts of insulin, or the insulin may not be successful in helping the cells metabolize the glucose. Type 2 diabetes generally affects adults who are overweight and who maintain a sedentary lifestyle. It is best treated by instigating lifestyle changes to lose weight, become more active, and consume less sugar. Medications may also be prescribed.

Though these are the two primary forms of diabetes, they are not the only ways that diabetes can manifest. Some people have prediabetes, which is a condition marked by slightly elevated blood sugar levels. When blood sugar levels remain slightly elevated, it may be a sign that the patient is at risk for developing type 2 diabetes. Some women also suffer from gestational diabetes, which occurs when they develop diabetic symptoms during pregnancy.

The Prevalence Of Diabetes

Diabetes, specifically type 2 diabetes, is one of the most concerning epidemics facing our country. According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), more than 29 million Americans are currently living with diabetes, and an additional 86 million are living with prediabetes. Type 2 diabetes is by far the most prevalent form, as it accounts for 90-95% of all cases of diabetes in the United States.

Long-Term Health Consequences Of Diabetes

As a chronically obese culture, almost everyone knows someone who suffers from some form of diabetes. Because this condition - especially prediabetes - is so common, many people don't give much thought to it. However, diabetes is a serious health condition that, if left untreated, can result in severe long-term consequences. Complications that result from diabetes may include:

Blindness
Heart disease
Stroke
Kidney disease
Amputations

The amputations can occur at any extremity, but they most commonly occur in the feet. They are due to serious infections that develop in extremities as a result of long-term damage to local nerves and blood vessels.

American Diabetes Alert Day

In recognition of the prevalence and risks of this health condition in our country, March 28th has been designated American Diabetes Alert Day. This is the perfect day to get screened for diabetes or prediabetes, as well as to be proactive about reducing your risk of developing type 2 diabetes. It is important to recognize that this condition is frequently genetic; if your family has a history of diabetes, you may automatically be more likely to develop it.

If you would like to learn more about diabetes or if you think you may be at risk for developing this condition, please reach out to one of our experienced Missouri primary care providers. Our team can help you judge whether or not you may be at risk and help you take steps to reduce this risk. For more information about our health clinics in central Missouri, visit us online at www.CentralOzarks.org.

Central Ozarks Medical Center
Keeping Lack of Insurance From Being a Roadblock to Quality Healthcare

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573.765.5141 -- Richland
573.302.7490 -- Osage Beach
573.346.4446 -- Camdenton
573.317.9200 -- Stone Castle
573.765.2510 -- Dental

Serving Camdenton, Laclede, Pulaski, and Miller Counties

Thursday, March 23, 2017

Meet Our Primary Care Providers - Part 2

Affordable, high-quality healthcare in Mid-Missouri is the hallmark of Central Ozarks Medical Center. From pediatric to senior care and everything in between, we proudly offer a variety of medical services to meet the needs of every patient across the central Missouri region. Last month, we took the opportunity to introduce you to several of our Mid-Missouri primary care providers who have dedicated their careers to helping our medical center better serve our patients. Today, we're introducing you to the rest of our primary care providers.

Primary Care Providers at COMC

Dr. Dan Schmidt, MD

Daniel M. Schmidt, MD, is a Summa Cum Laude graduate of LeTourneau University in Longview, TX, with a Bachelor of Arts in Chemistry. He went on to complete his Medical Degree at Creighton University School of Medicine in Omaha, Nebraska where he graduated Cum Laude. He completed his Residency at Wesley Family Practice in Wichita, KS.

Dr. Schmidt has been part of the Central Ozarks Medical Clinic group of providers for over 18 years. Dr. Schmidt has been Board Certified in Family Practice with the American Academy of Family Physicians since 1986 to present. He is also a member of Christian Medical and Dental Association.

In his time away from the clinic, Dr. Schmidt enjoys spending time with his family, reading, playing golf, singing, and interacting with children who attend the Awana program at his church.

J.J. Jones, DNP, ANP-BC, ACNP-BC

J.J. is board-certified as both an Adult Nurse Practitioner and Acute Care Nurse Practitioner. In 2015, she completed her Doctorate in clinical practice from Missouri State University, focusing on identification and treatment of osteoporosis in the rural internal medicine setting.

J.J. has been in the nursing profession for more than 25 years, with the past 10 as a nurse practitioner. Her nurse practitioner experience has included cardiology, internal, occupational, and hospital medicine. She joined Central Ozarks Medical Center in 2016 and provides care in both the inpatient and outpatient setting.

Ms. Jones maintains active membership with the Missouri Nurses Association, Sigma Theta Tau, Society of Hospital Medicine, Missouri Hospital Association, and the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners. She recently had an article chosen for publication in the Orthopedic Journal of Nursing and was one of the conference speakers at the National Conference for Nurse Practitioners in May of 2016.

Sara "Ashley" Warren, DO

Dr. Ashley Warren has joined the Central Ozark Medical Center Richland Clinic. She is Board Certified in Family Medicine from the American College of Osteopathic Family Physicians. She completed her Residency in Family Medicine at Capital Region Medical Center in Jefferson City, MO, where she was the Chief Resident. During her residency, she also completed a fellowship in Integrative Medicine. Integrative medicine promotes health using both traditional medicine and alternative medicine.

She attended the University of Missouri-Columbia for her undergraduate degrees, receiving a Bachelor's of Science in Biology, Bachelor's of Arts in Sociology and a Honor's Degree.

She completed medical school at Kirksville College of Osteopathic Medicine (KCOM) in Kirksville, MO. She has a holistic approach to medicine and helps her patients improve the health of their mind, body and spirit. She enjoys all areas of medicine but considers her passions to be mental health, women's health (gynecology), pediatrics, Osteopathic Manipulation (OMM) and Integrative Medicine.

Dr. Warren is an ally to the LGBTQA community and considers her office a safe place for all people to receive care.

She is the niece of Dr. Barton Warren, another one of our primary care providers. Since deciding to become a physician, returning to practice at her hometown clinic with her uncle has been her goal. She is excited to be back in Richland. Her family has lived in the town since Reconstruction when her great-great-grandfather, Captain H.E. Warren, helped to found the town.

Additional Providers
In addition to these excellent providers, we are proud to have two other providers on staff: Dr. David Cathcart, MD and Dr. Barton Warren, MD. We are currently working on organizing their headshots and bios. They will be published on on our website soon.

Outstanding Care For Outstanding Patients

At Central Ozarks Medical Center, we celebrate the uniqueness of each patient that comes through our doors. It is our goal to provide the customized care that each patient needs to not only survive, but thrive.

For more information about our medical center in Richland MO and the Lake of the Ozarks, visit our website at www.CentralOzarks.org.

Central Ozarks Medical Center
Keeping Lack of Insurance From Being a Roadblock to Quality Healthcare

Wednesday, March 15, 2017

Switching Doctors? 9 Questions To Ask

Most people don't seem to realize this, but as the patient, you are in control of your relationship with your doctor. Your doctor is working for you - if you are not happy with the care you are receiving, switching to a different provider is completely within your rights.

If you are contemplating switching to a different provider, asking certain questions can be a great way to determine whether or not your new provider will be the right fit. The answers to these questions can help you determine whether or not your new Lake of the Ozarks doctor will be a good fit for you and your family.

1. Is The Technology Up-To-Date?
How current is the equipment at your new facility? Will you have access to the advances of modern healthcare technology?

2. How Accessible Is The Practice?
How long is the drive to the hospital or clinic? If there is an emergency, will you be able to receive treatment in a timely manner?

3. Who Will Be Providing The Majority Of Your Care?
Will your new doctor provide many of your needed services him/herself, or will he/she frequently refer you to an outside specialist?

4. Does The Doctor/Clinic Have A History Of Malpractice Claims?
Do a little digging to see if you can learn the legal history of your new practice. Even good doctors can make mistakes now and then, but if your new clinic or provider has a history of many claims or unsatisfied patients, you will probably want to look elsewhere.

5. How Long Does It Take To Get An Appointment?
Is there a long waiting list? If you are in need of urgent attention, will your new provider be able to accommodate?

6. Will The New Clinic Work With Your Insurance Company?
Insurance companies can be rather selective about the providers/hospitals they have in their networks. It's important to find out whether or not the care you receive from your new provider will be covered by your plan.

7. Is The Staff Courteous?
Do you feel welcomed when you walk in the door? Are you treated with respect? Your doctor isn't the only person you will have contact with at your new clinic, so it's important that you are comfortable with the rest of the staff.

8. Can You Receive Care After Hours?
Life is unpredictable. Quality medical care shouldn't be limited to standard business hours. Find out what your new practice's policy is on evening and weekend appointments.

9. How Do You Feel About Your New Doctor?
This is arguably the most important question you can ask yourself. While it's important to think through your decision logically, choosing your new doctor is an emotional decision as well. As you meet with your new provider for the first time, tap into your subconscious and evaluate how you feel in the presence of your new provider. Does he respect your needs? Does he address your concerns? Does he answer your questions in a way that is easy to understand? Do you feel comfortable and safe in his presence?

Looking For A New Provider? Consider COMC!

At Central Ozarks Medical Center, we pride ourselves on providing patient-driven care. Our providers and our medical staff make a point to ensure that our patients receive the best possible care we can give them. If you are considering switching healthcare providers at the Lake of the Ozarks, we would be honored if you would consider setting up an appointment at our clinic nearest to you. You deserve the best, and it is our goal to provide you with nothing less!

Central Ozarks Medical Center
Keeping Lack of Insurance From Being a Roadblock to Quality Healthcare

Thursday, March 9, 2017

Your Trusted Resource for Women's Health

Women's bodies undergo numerous changes throughout their lives. Puberty, pregnancy, childbirth, breastfeeding, and menopause are just a few examples of the monumental processes women go through. Finding a trusted women's healthcare provider to assist you throughout these various stages is an important component of maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Central Ozarks Medical Center is proud to offer women the resources they need to live long, healthy lives.

General Wellness

Women's bodies are beautifully and intricately designed. In order to maintain optimum health, countless different factors must function together harmoniously and cohesively. We offer a variety of different general wellness services to keep your body functioning at optimum health, including:

Pap tests
Pelvic exams
STI and STD tests
Immunizations
Breast exams
Mammograms
Birth control

Gynecology

Reproductive, abdominal, and vaginal health is closely linked to overall physical health. We are here to help you with the multiple health conditions you may face throughout your life. As a few examples, we have experiencing helping women with infertility, urinary incontinence, organ prolapse, endometriosis, ovarian cysts, abnormal pap smears, and menopause.

Pregnancy

Few biological processes are as life-changing as pregnancy. Even the healthiest pregnancies can be taxing. The body undergoes countless changes as it supports the new life growing inside, and most women understandably have countless questions about the process. When you come to us for obstetric care at the Lake of the Ozarks, we promise to be right by your side throughout every step of the process from pregnancy confirmation to your postpartum check-up. Our ultimate goal is to promote your continued good health so that we can work together towards the delivery of a healthy newborn.

Our Women's Health Providers

Our primary women's health providers are Dr. Sarah M. Buchanan, MD and Dr. Robert Nielsen, DO. Collectively, they have almost forty years of experience working in the field of obstetrics and gynecology.

Dr. Buchanan specializes in high risk pregnancies, menopause, adolescent care, and pelvic surgery. She also holds a particular interest in bioidentical hormone therapy, alternative medicine, and acupuncture.

Contact Central Ozarks Medical Center To Schedule Your Appointment

At Central Ozarks Medical Center, we pride ourselves on providing high-quality and affordable women's health services in Mid-Missouri. If you would like to learn more about our women's health services or schedule your private consultation with Dr. Buchanan or Dr. Nielsen, we encourage you to call our Osage Beach location at 573-302-7490.

For more information about our healthcare services at the Lake of the Ozarks, visit our website at www.CentralOzarks.org.

Central Ozarks Medical Center
Keeping Lack of Insurance From Being a Roadblock to Quality Healthcare