Central Ozarks Medical Center: 2018

Wednesday, December 26, 2018

Meet Our Own Barton Warren, MD, Laurie Sparr, DNP, FNP, and Casey Page, RDH, CDA, EFDA

Central Ozarks Medical Center hopes you enjoyed your Christmas and that you have a very Happy New Year! We couldn't be more excited for 2019. Our health clinics at the Lake of the Ozarks are also excited to introduce you to our very own Barton Warren, MD, Laurie Sparr, DNP, FNP, and Casey Page, RDH, CDA, EFDA. We appreciate everything they do for us. Keep reading to learn more about them.

Barton Warren, MD

Dr. Barton L. Warren graduated from Tulane Medical University in New Orleans in 1984. He completed a residency at the Medical Center of South Carolina in Charleston. Dr. Warren has been practicing at Central Ozarks Medical Center for the last 31 years and specializes in family practice and obstetric care. He is board certified in Family Practice Medicine.

In his spare time, he enjoys spending time with his family( particularly playing “pirates” with his grandchildren), listening to popular music, and understanding life through faith and politics.

Laurie Sparr, DNP, FNP

Laurie graduated with a Doctor of Nursing Practice, Family Nurse Practitioner degree from Saint Louis University in May 2017. The focus for her Doctorate was identifying the percentage of families in a federally funded pediatric clinic who reported not having enough food and helping to increase access to community resources for those families. Laurie has worked in nursing for over 25 years in the areas of behavioral health, home healthcare, oncology, and case management.

Laurie is an active member of St. Louis Nurses in Advanced Practice, Association of Missouri Nurse Practitioners, Sigma Theta Tau International Nurses Honor Society of Nursing, and American Association of Nurse Practitioners. She has presented posters related to Food Insecurity research at St. Louis Nurses of Advanced Practice symposium and the Sigma Theta Tau convention in Indianapolis in 2017.

Laurie is originally from northeastern Montana and has lived in the St. Louis area for the last 25 years. She has been married for 29 years with 4 children ages 24 to 16. Lauri enjoys spending time with family, friends, baking, reading, and volunteering in the school and community.

Casey Page, RDH, CDA, EFDA

Casey Page joined the Central Ozarks Medical Center Dental clinic in February of 2018.
Casey attended Ozarks Technical Community College in Springfield, MO where she graduated with her Associates in Dental Hygiene and Dental Assisting with expanded functions. She is passionate about caring for her patients and their oral health needs, bringing a comforting, gentle touch to her patient care.

Casey is an active member of the American Dental Hygiene Association and is currently serving as secretary on the Missouri Dental Hygienist’s Association state board. She is enjoying learning more about the professional organization and how she can be more involved.

Casey enjoys riding with her husband on their Harley Davidson motorcycle and spending time with their four beautiful children, two of which are twin girls! She is a very busy and proud mother!

We hope you enjoyed learning about these great people. If you have any questions or would like to make an appointment with one of our providers at the Lake of the Ozarks, please give us a call. Our phone numbers are listed below.

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

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For Appointments Call
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, December 20, 2018

Break Your Unhealthy Habits this Holiday Season with COMC

The holidays are coming! While the holiday season is a time for giving and can be very exciting and fun, people can still tend to get very stresses out this time of year. From planning a huge Christmas feast to rushing around at the last minute to get the perfect Christmas gifts for your family members, there can be a lot to do. When you are running around, rushing to get everything done for your holiday party, all while still managing to work at full-time job - it can be very easy to forget one of the most vital things of all - take care of yourself. Don't lose yourself in unhealthy habits this time of year. Our health clinics at the Lake of the Ozarks are here to give you a few examples of unhealthy habits that you should work toward breaking this holiday season. If you are looking for a new doctor at the Lake of the Ozarks, consider Central Ozarks Medical Center. We believe it is not just about what we do, but how we do it that counts.

Break Your Unhealthy Habits this Holiday Season with COMC

Forgetting to Wash Your Hands
Everyone is likely gathering together for the holidays, everyone from the newborns to the elderly. More people bring more germs, so don’t forget to sanitize. Here are a few things to keep in mind:

Sanitize your hands before and after eating.
Always wash your hands after using the restroom.
With all of the excitement around the holidays, you are likely rushing around and you could easily forget to wash or sanitize your hands.
It only takes a few minutes, so make the time to sanitize.

Overeating Simply Because It Is The Holidays
Holiday meals can really be delicious but don’t overdo it. Save your leftovers and eat them the next day versus trying to eat everything in one sitting. No one wants a stomach ache the day after Christmas.

Eating Because You're Bored
Who’s guilty of snacking in between arriving at your holiday destination all the way until dinner is ready? The holidays are such a fun time of year, but you don’t have to let your diet slip away. If you are going to snack then try going for the veggie or fruit tray versus the holiday sweets.

Forgetting to Sleep - HUGE no no
If you are hosting Christmas or a New Year’s party at your home, chances are you have been running around busy preparing for your holiday party. Don’t forget to sleep! You still need 7 to 8 hours of sleep per night, even around the holidays.

Let COMC Help You Take Care of You This Holiday Season!

Happy Holidays from COMC! Here at our health clinics in Mid Missouri, our mission is to increase access to comprehensive primary and preventative health care and to improve the health care status of underserved and vulnerable populations in Camden, Laclede, Miller, and Pulaski Counties. We also strive to let people know that no health insurance shouldn't mean no affordable healthcare. Our belief is that it is not just what we do here at Central Ozarks Medical Center, but how we do it that makes all the difference. Learn more about us and check out our website at www.CentralOzarks.org.

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

Wednesday, December 12, 2018

Meet Our Behavioral Health Providers: Part 2

Central Ozarks Medical Center is excited to announce we have more Behavioral Health Providers in Camden County. Our health clinics at the Lake of the Ozarks are honored to have these great people working and providing the best healthcare services to our patients. We pride ourselves on being able to offer underserved communities with affordable healthcare. Keep reading for Part 2 of our Meet Our Behavioral Health Providers blog series.

Meet Our Behavioral Health Providers: Part 2

Danielle Russell, M. Ed., LPC
Danielle Russell, M.Ed., LPC, is a graduate of Lincoln University with a Bachelor's of Science in Psychology. After working in the mental health field for 9 years, Danielle went on to continue her education at Lincoln University obtaining a Master's of Education in Counseling.

Danielle began her career in mental health by helping teens who struggled with substance abuse issues. Since completing her Master's degree, she has been working with children, adolescents, and adults of all ages. She has been working in the mental health field for 16 plus years and is truly passionate about helping others.

In her free time, she enjoys spending time with her family, traveling, camping, enjoying the outdoors, cooking, and gardening.

Brin Ballard
Brin Ballard is a PLPC with over 10 years of experience serving children and adults with Behavioral health needs. She has worked in community mental health centers and for the Missouri Department of Mental health. Brin is passionate about working with kids and is excited to see this service assist in the academic success of School of the Osage students. Brin enjoys reading, going to sporting events, and playing outside with her two daughters.

Susan Beck-Case, LCSW
Susan Beck Case, State of Missouri Licensed Clinical Social Worker, has worked with children and families for over 30 years. Her primary goal throughout her career and life, for that matter, is to make a positive difference in the lives of others. She and her husband have filled their empty nest in Lebanon, Missouri with two dogs and a cat!

Affordable Healthcare at the Lake of the Ozarks

We a discounted fee to patients based on their household size and household income. The Sliding Fee Program includes fees for medical, dental and behavioral health services. To determine eligibility, please note:

Central Ozarks Medical Center will need to ask you to bring in personal financial information.
Any information we ask you for will be strictly confidential.
None of your personal information, financial or medical, can be released without your written consent.
The information we are asking for is used solely to determine household size and household income. Applications are effective for a one-year period.
Sliding Fee Discount Program participants must complete an application annually Discount Program applications must be completed, signed and approved prior to services being provided.
All participants are asked to notify COMC of income changes as soon as possible after the change occurs.
All patients under 19 years of age must have a Medicaid denial letter to be eligible for the Discount Program.

For more information, please call our clinic nearest to you, our phone numbers are listed below.

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

Thursday, December 6, 2018

Meet Our Behavioral Health Providers: Part 1

It is the belief of our behavioral health providers at the Lake of the Ozarks that physical health is affected by a patient's emotional and behavioral health and that both aspects must be treated for a positive outcome. Our Staff at Central Ozarks Medical Center practice cooperative healthcare and are able to offer tools and programs such as assessments, private consultations, family counseling and when needed; referrals to other specialized resources. Get to know some of our other behavioral health providers. Keep reading to get to know Angela Ross, Michael Cundiff, and Desiree Malam.

Angela Ross
Angela graduated Summa Cum Laude with her Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from Evangel University in Springfield, MO and later went on to earn her Master of Social Work degree from Aurora University in Illinois where she grew up.

Prior to joining COMC, she worked in the public schools in Illinois as a school social worker and has spent time working in a medical clinic as well as community mental health center. Angela prefers working with students in the school system and their families while also being a resource and consultant to teachers, administrators, and the community.

When she is not working in the Eldon School District, Angela loves spending time spoiling her Golden Retriever and spending time outside with her (weather permitting). She also enjoys spending time with friends and family as well as helping out with her local church and community. She’s always up to watching a good, thought-provoking movie or spending a quiet night at home reading or being creative in her other hobbies.

Michael Cundiff
A St. Louisan by birth and resident there for many years, Michael Cundiff moved to the lake area in 2013. He was drawn to the area by the beauty of the countryside and the friendliness of the people. Cundiff spent thirty-six years in high school settings most of which was as a counselor, followed by eleven years as an agency therapist. For recreation, family water sports activities capture Michael's fancy, but he also piloted his own plane for many years.

Desiree Malam
Desiree received her Bachelor's degree in Human Services and her Master's degree in Counseling Psychology from Evangel University with an emphasis in Marriage and Family.

Prior to becoming a part of the Central Ozarks Medical Center team, Desiree has served military families and implemented a counseling program through a non-profit organization that provided services to families and individuals. She looks forward to providing services to the communities that Central Ozarks Medical Center serves.

Desiree lives in the Waynesville area. She enjoys spending time outside, playing with her grandchildren and traveling.

Behavioral Health Providers at the Lake of the Ozarks

Have you had trouble finding the provider at the Lake to help you with your specific healthcare needs, such as OCD, depression, bipolar, etc.? Whatever your behavioral health issue may be, our providers are here to help you. Schedule your appointment today by calling one of the health clinics at the Lake of the Ozarks listed below.

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

Thursday, November 29, 2018

Women's Healthcare at the Lake of the Ozarks

Women's healthcare providers at the Lake of the Ozarks can be hard to find due to this being a smaller area than bigger cities such as Kansas City or St. Louis. However, finding one you can trust is vital. The Central Ozarks Medical Center mission is to increase access to comprehensive primary and preventative health care and to improve the health care status of underserved and vulnerable populations in Camden, Laclede, Miller, and Pulaski Counties. Keep reading to learn more about our women's healthcare provider and the services we provide.

Our Women's Health Provider at the Lake of the Ozarks

Robert Nielsen, DO
Robert C. Nielsen, DO, is a graduate of Kirksville College of Osteopathic Medicine, Kirksville, MO. He completed his internship at Des Moines General Hospital and residency at North Oakland Medical Center (Pontiac, MI). Dr. Nielsen served in the United States Army from 1978-1982, the Iowa National Guard from 1982-1989, and in the Michigan National Guard from 1989-1995 where he served in Operation Desert Storm as a Major in the Medical Corps.

Dr. Nielsen has been practicing Medicine for 27 years and has been with Central Ozarks Medical Center since 2011.

Dr. Nielsen is Board Certified in Obstetrics and Gynecology and is a Fellow with the American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology.

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.

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:

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

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 experience in helping women with infertility, urinary incontinence, organ prolapse, endometriosis, ovarian cysts, abnormal pap smears, and menopause.

Need a New Women's Healthcare Provider in Camden County?

Call to make an appointment today. Our clinic locations and phone numbers are listed below and you may call to make an appointment at the one nearest to you. We offer a very well rounded set of healthcare services. To learn more about them, please visit our website at www.CentralOzarks.org.

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

Wednesday, November 21, 2018

How to Choose Your New Doctor Wisely

Choosing a new doctor for yourself or for you and your whole family is a huge decision that shouldn't be taken lightly. This is your health and it shouldn't just be trusted to anyone. Our health clinics at the Lake of the Ozarks are here to give you a few questions to ask yourself and the new doctor or Camden County health clinic that you may be considering in order to determine if he or she will be a good fit for you. If you are looking for a new doctor, consider Central Ozarks Medical Center. We have multiple health clinics throughout Central Missouri. Learn more by visiting our website at www.CentralOzarks.org.

Questions to Ask the New Doctor

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?

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?

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?

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.

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.

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?

Choose Central Ozarks Medical Center for New Doctor

Our health clinics in Mid Missouri believe that the quality of your healthcare shouldn't be dictated by whether or not you have insurance or how much money you have. Even better than the savings you get with Central Ozarks Medical Center is the quality of care and concern our providers will offer to you during each visit. With highly trained support staff, Central Ozarks Medical Center Providers can focus on only you and your health. Call today for your first appointment. Our phone numbers and locations are listed below.

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

Friday, November 16, 2018

Important Diabetes Symptoms and Statistics You May Not Know

Diabetes now affects more than 100 million adults in the U.S., according to the CDC. Awareness is key to prevention. You may have diabetes and not even realize it until its too late and you have had a dramatic episode. Our health clinics at the Lake of the Ozarks are here to give you the symptoms of diabetes and inform you of some important diabetes statistics you may be unaware of. If you find yourself feeling any of these symptoms, call Central Ozarks Medical Center today.

Symptoms of Diabetes

Before we give the symptoms of diabetes, we must first distinguish a difference between type 1 and type 2 diabetes. People with type 1 diabetes, otherwise known as juvenile diabetes, can't produce insulin. People with type 2 diabetes aren't able to use insulin the right way, which can lead to an insulin deficiency.

Source: American Heart Association

Type 1 Diabetes Symptoms

Increased fatigue
Increased appetite
In certain cases, there are no symptoms
Fruity breath or odor
Blurred vision
Unusual weight loss
Increased urination

Type 2 Diabetes Symptoms

Weight loss
Blurred vision
Increased urination, especially at night
Sores that won't heal
In certain cases, no symptoms
Fatigue
Increased appetite
Increased thirst

Important Diabetes Statistics

Source: Centers Disease Control and Prevention

Key findings from the National Diabetes Statistics Report, 2014 (based on health data from 2012), include:

208,000 people younger than 20 years have been diagnosed with diabetes (type 1 or type 2).
86 million adults aged 20 years and older have prediabetes.
The percentage of U.S. adults with prediabetes is similar for non-Hispanic whites (35 percent), non-Hispanic blacks (39 percent), and Hispanics (38 percent).
Diabetes is a serious disease that can be managed through physical activity, diet, and appropriate use of insulin and oral medications to lower blood sugar levels. Another important part of diabetes management is reducing other cardiovascular disease risk factors, such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol and tobacco use.
29 million people in the United States (9.3 percent) have diabetes.
1.7 million people aged 20 years or older were newly diagnosed with diabetes in 2012.
Non-Hispanic black, Hispanic, and American Indian/Alaska Native adults are about twice as likely to have diagnosed diabetes as non-Hispanic white adults.

Your Health Clinic at the Lake of the Ozarks

We hope you found these statistics and symptoms informative. Our mission is to increase access to comprehensive primary and preventative health care and to improve the health care status of underserved and vulnerable populations in Camden, Laclede, Miller, and Pulaski Counties. Our belief is that it is not just what we do here at Central Ozarks Medical Center, but how we do it that makes all the difference. For more information or to make an appointment at one of our health clinics, see below for the phone numbers and locations to call.

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

Thursday, November 8, 2018

COMC is Expanding!

Central Ozarks Medical Center and Richland Community Development Corporation Announce Purchase of Former First State Community Bank Building in Richland

Central Ozarks Medical Center (COMC) and Richland Community Development Corporation (RCDC) are excited to announce the expansion of Central Ozark Medical Center in Richland through the purchase on October 31 of the former First Community State Bank building in downtown Richland.

The building was donated to RCDC by its owner Bank of America in order to spur further development of Richland’s downtown. The purchase will allow COMC to remodel its current administrative offices at 304 W. Washington in Richland to expand medical and behavioral health services.

“Saving the historic structure in our downtown has been a priority for RCDC since the building became empty earlier this year,” RCDC President Mary Baker said. When Bank of America offered to donate the 10,000+ square foot building to the non-profit, RCDC’s Board of Directors agreed to accept it. “After the acquisition in early October, we began negotiating with COMC to purchase it as administrative space for its expanding non-profit services, and couldn’t be happier with this outcome,” Baker said. Formed in 2017 as a 501c3 non-profit organization, RCDC’s mission is to facilitate economic growth and improvements in the Richland community.

“RCDC is happy that this move will not only free up space in the current COMC facilities but will contribute to a thriving downtown bringing 40-50 administrative staff to that area on a daily basis,” RCDC Board member Cindy Payne said.

Central Ozarks Medical Center was started in Richland in 1979 by a group of local citizens concerned by the lack of medical services in the community. Since that time, COMC has added dental and behavioral health services and has expanded to include clinics in Osage Beach and Camdenton. In addition, COMC provides services throughout the four-county area of Camden, Laclede, Miller, and Pulaski Counties, including services in thirteen local school districts. As a Federally Qualified Health Center, COMC provides comprehensive services to everyone, regardless of ability to pay.

Over the last few years, COMC has seen a dramatic growth in patients. To meet this need, in January, COMC will complete construction of a new 17,000 square foot clinic in Camdenton, partially funded with $1 million in federal support. COMC recently received more than $100,000 in federal funds to remodel its Osage Beach facility to accommodate expanded behavioral health services. Due to its recent growth, the COMC Board of Directors recognized the need for additional space in Richland while maintaining a commitment to its history in the community.

“COMC has been part of this community for nearly 40 years. We are excited that this opportunity to partner with the Richland Community Development Corporation will allow COMC to plan for another 40 years of service to the communities we serve,” Board spokesperson Sherry Struckhoff said.

If you have any questions about this expansion, please do not hesitate to give us a call. Please find the proper contact information below:

Central Ozarks Medical Center
Robert Stiles, CEO: rstiles@centralozarks.org or 573-765-5131

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

Tuesday, October 30, 2018

How Your Body Can Suffer From Sitting Too Long

Whether you have an office job and are sitting for 8 hours a day or the relaxation of fall fever has stricken you and you haven't gotten out much - sitting for too long can affect your body in a bad way. Our health clinics at the Lake of the Ozarks are here to help make you aware of how sitting too long can have a damaging effect on certain parts of your body. For a health provider at the Lake of the Ozarks, you can count on, call Central Ozarks Medical Center today.

How Your Body Can Suffer From Sitting Too Long

Neck
The problems with slouching do not stop at the back. Hunching forward requires your neck to strain upwards in order for you to look straight ahead (at your computer screen, for example). A prolonged strain on the cervical vertebrae in this manner can take a serious toll on the body and may result in several problems, including headaches.

Abdomen & Back
Standing or sitting upright requires your core abdominal muscles to work. However, if you're like most people, you relax into a comfortable slouch when you sit down. Slouching doesn't require any effort from your abdominal muscles, and as such they may become weak and atrophied overtime. Consistent slouching also causes numerous back problems.

Brain
As blood flows more slowly, so does the transportation of oxygen and various important chemicals. All aspects of the body can be affected, including the brain. Sitting for several hours may cause your brain to become foggy and sluggish. If you've ever felt "brain dead" and resorted to a quick walk to clear your mind, then you probably know exactly what we're talking about.

Heart
When you sit, your muscles burn less fat and your blood flows more slowly. This makes it easier for fatty acids to build up in your heart, which can significantly increase your chances of developing heart disease.

Pancreas
Not long ago, we discussed how the pancreas produces insulin - a hormone that enables the body to break down the glucose in the blood and transform it into usable energy. Sitting for prolonged periods of time can cause the body to produce too much insulin, and when there is an excess amount of a certain hormone, the body begins to ignore its signals. Excess insulin may hinder the body's ability to convert blood sugar into usable energy, which can contribute to the risk of developing type 2 diabetes.

Stand Up and Be Healthy with Central Ozarks Medical Center

Our mission is to increase access to comprehensive primary and preventative health care and to improve the healthcare status of underserved and vulnerable populations in Camden, Laclede, Miller, and Pulaski Counties. Our belief is that it is not just what we do here at Central Ozarks Medical Center, but how we do it that makes all the difference. For more information on our services, please visit our website at www.CentralOzarks.org.

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

Wednesday, October 24, 2018

Tackle Menopause with Central Ozarks Medical Center

We are in the middle of Fall 2018 which means the holiday season is right around the corner. Christmas and Thanksgiving can be such an exciting time of year, from catching up with family and friends to chowing down on some good, old-fashioned home cooked meals, but it can also be a little stressful. Preparing for the holidays and getting all the Christmas presents purchased in time and wrapped, finding all of the ingredients for your family Thanksgiving recipes, and cooking the most wonderful meals can be exhausting. It can feel like a full time job and you probably already have one of those. Don't let your menopause symptoms get in the way of you having fun getting ready for the holidays. Central Ozarks Medical Center is here to give you a few helpful tips for dealing with menopause. For women's health providers at the Lake of the Ozarks, you can count on, call one of our Mid Missouri health clinics today. Our phone numbers, locations, and directions can all be found on our website at www.CentralOzarks.org.

Symptoms of Menopause

Symptoms you may experience that could mean you are entering into menopause could include:

Panic disorder
Breast pain
Headaches
Joint pain
Burning tongue
Electric shock sensation
Digestive problems
Gum problems
Muscle tension
Itchy, crawly skin
Tingling extremities
Osteoporosis
Hot flashes
Night sweats
Irregular periods
Loss of libido
Vaginal Dryness
Mood swings
Hair loss or thinning
Fatigue
Sleep disorders
Difficulty concentrating
Memory lapses
Dizziness
Weight gain
Incontinence
Bloating
Allergies
Brittle nails
Changes in body odor
Irregular heartbeat
Depression
Anxiety
Irritability

Exercise on a Regular Basis

Regular exercise can lead to:

improved energy
improved metabolism
healthier joints
healthier bones
better sleep
decreased stress

Eat Foods That Have Plenty of Calcium and Vitamin D
Hormonal changes that can happen during menopause can cause your bones to weaken. This can lead to osteoporosis. Foods high in vitamin D and calcium are linked to good bone health, so it's essential that you eat plenty of these types of foods. For calcium-rich foods, try eating foods or drinking liquids such as:

yogurt
milk
cheese
kale
tofu
beans
sardines

For foods with Vitamin D, try eating:

oily fish
eggs

Avoid "Trigger Foods"
There are foods that can trigger hot flashes, such as foods or drinks that contain:

alcohol
caffeine
foods that are spicy or sugary

Eat Plenty of Fruits and Vegetables
Eating lots of fruits and vegetable can help prevent many menopause symptoms. Fruits and vegetable can be low in calories, so that helps with weight loss and maintenance. Fruits and vegetables have also been known to help prevent heart disease. This is significant because the risk of heart disease tends to increase after menopause.

Achieve and Maintain a Healthy Body Weight
It can be very common to gain weight during menopause. According to healthline, one study of 17,473 postmenopausal women found that those who lost at least 10 lbs (4.5 kg) of weight or 10% of their body weight over a year were more likely to eliminate hot flashes and night sweat.

Tackle Menopause with Central Ozarks Medical Center

Central Ozarks Medical Center Physicians recognize the unique medical needs of women and provide a variety of medical services designed with you in mind. Through each stage of your life COMC physicians tailor wellness and preventative care to meet you where you are. For more information, visit our website at www.CentralOzarks.org.

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

Friday, October 19, 2018

Healthy Halloween Treats

Halloween is almost here! Just because Halloween is known for the delicious candy you get doesn't mean you have to give in to temptation and eat unhealthy. If you are determined to lose weight by the end of the year, there are ways to stay on track throughout holidays like this. Our health clinics at the Lake of the Ozarks are here to give you a couple of healthy Halloween treat recipes we found online that could be great for your next festive party treat. If you child is feeling sick and you need to get them in to a doctor you can trust before the holiday, call Central Ozarks Medical Center today. Our phone numbers and locations are listed on our website at www.CentralOzarks.org.

Healthy Halloween Treats

Source: https://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/food-network-kitchen/sweet-and-spicy-pepitas-popcorn-balls-recipe-1928429

Sweet and Spicy Pepitas Popcorn Balls

Total: 40 min
Prep: 20 min
Cook: 20 min
Yield: 20 balls

Ingredients

3 (3.5-ounce) bags natural microwave popcorn

2 cups pepitas (hulled pumpkin seeds)

1 cup heavy cream

1 cup sugar

1/2 cup light corn syrup

2 tablespoons unsalted butter, cut into pieces, plus more for forming

1/4 teaspoon fine salt

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper

Directions

Pop the popcorn according to package instructions. While hot, carefully open package and dump into a large bowl.

Toast the pumpkin seeds in a large skillet over medium-high heat, until browned and popping, tossing and stirring occasionally, about 4 minutes. (Do this in batches, if needed.) Add to the popcorn.

Make caramel: Warm the cream over low heat and keep warm while you cook the sugar. Put the sugar and corn syrup and in a deep, heavy-bottomed large saucepan. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally until the sugar dissolves. Stop stirring, raise heat to medium-high, and simmer until the sugar reaches the hard crack stage, or 305 degrees F on a candy thermometer, about 7 minutes.

Whisk the butter and salt into the sugar mixture. Gradually pour in the cream and vanilla taking care since the mixture will bubble up. Reduce the heat to medium and continue to cook, stirring occasionally, until the sugar reaches soft ball stage, 240 degrees F on the thermometer, about 5 minutes more. Immediately remove from the heat and stir in the cinnamon and cayenne. Cool for about a minute. Pour caramel over the popcorn and stir to evenly coat.

When the popcorn is cool enough to handle, coat your hands with some butter and shape into 4-inch balls. Wrap in waxed paper and tie with a string, if desired. Serve or store covered at room temperature for up to a week.

Source: https://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/jeff-mauro/deviled-ham-eyeball-sandwich-recipe-2125219#/

Deviled Ham Eyeball Sandwich

Total: 25 min
Prep: 25 min
Yield: 20 eyeballs

Ingredients

20 slices white bread, such as Arnold Brick Oven White Sandwich Bread

2 cups smoked cooked ham, chopped (about 8 ounces)

1/3 cup mayonnaise

1 tablespoon honey

1 tablespoon Dijon mustard

1 tablespoon pickled relish

1/2 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce

3 dashes hot sauce, such as Tabasco

Kosher salt

10 pimento-stuffed green olives, sliced in half

Ketchup, for squirting

Directions

Special equipment: 2 1/2-inch round cookie cutter

Punch out rounds from the bread using a 2 1/2-inch round cookie cutter. Lay out the rounds on a baking sheet. Set aside.

Add the ham, mayonnaise, honey, mustard, relish, Worcestershire and hot sauce in the bowl of a food processor. Sprinkle with salt and pulse until finely chopped, but still chunky. Spoon a tablespoon at a time of the ham mixture onto a parchment-lined baking sheet. Roll each spoonful into round balls. Stuff 1 olive into the center of each ball for eyes. Lay the balls in the center of the bread rounds. Squirt ketchup around the edges of the bread to mimic veins. Serve to kids and pray they don't cry from how scary these are.

We believe in leading the way to healthier communities. If you are needing a new doctor at the Lake of the Ozarks to become your family doctor, call Central Ozarks Medical Center today. Visit our website at www.CentralOzarks.org for our contact information. We'd like to wish everyone a Happy Halloween!

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

Friday, October 12, 2018

Healthy Eating Tips for Dining Out

Staying on a diet or just eating healthy can be really hard to do in social situations where you are asked to dine out somewhere. There is so much temptation around to cheat and it can be difficult to know what is ok and not ok to eat. Our health clinics at the Lake of the Ozarks are here to give you a few healthy tips for dining out. If you ate something that just didn't quite sit right and you start to feel ill, call Central Ozarks Medical Center to make an appointment. We have health clinics throughout Central Missouri and our locations and phone numbers can be found on our website at www.CentralOzarks.org.

Healthy Eating Tips for Dining Out

Plan ahead.
Take a look at the menu before you leave for the restaurant. Most of the time you can find the menu online. Browse the menu for a healthy option, whether that be a salad or burger but with no bun. Planning out your meal this way can help you to avoid "impulse ordering" something unhealthy out of feeling anxious to just make a quick decision.

Ask to substitute.
Ask your server about substituting a salad for your fries or mixed vegetables for your fried potatoes. Cut down on calories where you can.

Eat a healthy snack before you leave.
Eating something healthy before you leave can help you to feel more full before you leave so you are less likely to order a bunch of food that can be bad for you.

Try ordering a couple of appetizers instead of a meal.
Sometimes you can find healthy appetizers on the menu, such as grilled shrimp or grilled chicken wings. If you are trying to eat low carb, ordering two appetizers like these can be a great option rather than ordering a full meal.

Drink lots of water.
Make sure to drink water before your meal and throughout your meal. Fill yourself up on water instead of french fries.

Eat Healthy with Central Ozarks Medical Center

We know how hard it can be to eat healthy sometimes, but a healthy diet and regular exercise can be key to feeling good and losing weight or maintaining a healthy weight. Central Ozarks Medical Center provides a broad set of services based on the needs of the communities we serve, including but not limited to:

Primary Care
Obstetrics
Pediatrics
Behavioral Health
Women's Health
Senior Health
Dental Services

We pride ourselves on offering quality healthcare that works best with your financial situation. If you are uninsured and would like to look at insurance options we have Assisters to help you navigate the process. For more information, please visit our website at www.CentralOzarks.org or give us call at the health clinic nearest to you. You will find our phone numbers for each location listed below.

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