Central Ozarks Medical Center: May 2018

Thursday, May 31, 2018

June is Men's Health Month!

June is National Men's Health Month and in honor of this month, our health clinics at the Lake of the Ozarks are here to give all you men out there a few helpful health tips. If you are unhappy with your current physician and would like to try reaching out to a new one, consider Central Ozarks Medical Center. All locations are community practices, serving everyone from newborns to the elderly. We accept patients with and without insurance and offer a sliding fee scale based on income and family size.

Men's Health Tips

Tip #1
Establish a regular doctor.
It's important that you establish a regular doctor for many reasons, including:

Primary care physicians can prefer to see their patients regularly to better prevent major health issues from happening
Regular, annual doctor visits can help motivate you to lead a healthier lifestyle

Tip #2
Don't obsessively calorie count.
If you obsess over the number of calories you are eating you could be missing out on the vital nutrients your body needs.

Tip #3
Get your sleep!
No matter how busy your job or personal life is keeping you, make sleep a priority. You should be getting 7 to 8 hours of sleep every night. Not sleeping enough can lead to stress and weight gain.

Tip #4
Destress and find a healthy hobby.
Exercising can produce endorphins within your body, which can make you feel happier. Here are a few examples of healthy hobbies you could start:

Biking
Jogging (5Ks, Marathons)
Kayaking
Paddle Boarding
Walking
Swimming

Tip #5
Strengthen your close relationships.
Women can be known to better at this than men, but making the effort stay in touch with close friends and family members can be good for your overall emotional health. Try talking to your closest friends or family members weekly or having a nice meal or grabbing a drink with a buddy every once in a while. Be social and happy.

Looking for a New, Regular Doctor?

Call one of our conveniently located health clinics at the Lake of the Ozarks that is nearest to you. The phone numbers for each location are listed below. Central Ozarks Medical Center is a Federally Qualified Health Center and strives to deliver quality healthcare to our communities. As an FQHC we are non-profit and focus on medically underserved communities and bringing affordable healthcare to all. We strive to lead the way to healthier communities. No health insurance? No problem. We accept patients with and without insurance and offer a sliding fee scale based on income and family size. For information on our Sliding Fee Discount Program and on the insurances we accept, visit our website at www.CentralOzarks.org/financial.html.

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

Monday, May 28, 2018

Beat Summer Allergies with Central Ozarks Medical Center

Runny nose? Itchy eyes? Can’t stop sneezing to save your life? Summer allergies are upon us, and this is the time of year that pollen counts are less than forgiving. It’s important to be prepared for this season and understand what’s going on around us and in our bodies. If you’re struggling with upper respiratory issues, be sure to call one of our health clinics at the Lake of the Ozarks to set up a visit. Our providers are qualified and caring, and if your problem is more than seasonal allergies, we will refer you to the correct medical facility to get you taken care of. In the meantime, Central Ozarks Medical Center is here to give you some tips to help you survive this season!

What Causes Seasonal Allergies?

In the spring and summer, trees, grasses and weeds release high amounts of pollen, a common allergen. To fight off the pollen you breathe in, your body releases chemicals, one called histamine. Unfortunately, our bodies typically overcompensate with the release of histamine, and that’s what triggers our runny noses, itchy eyes, and sneezes. Seasonal allergies are also sometimes called hay fever. The most common allergens in the central Ozarks area are pollen and mold. Ragweed is the worst offender of all, producing record amounts of pollen each year. Second on the list is the mountain cedar, found only in Missouri and three other states. Bermuda grass is also a top offender, most commonly found on golf courses and in our parks and lawns. If your symptoms are persistent throughout the year, you might be allergic to something other than pollen.

Ways to Combat Your Sniffles

1. Keep your doors and windows closed.
Prevent pollen from blowing into your home by keeping your doors and windows closed as often as possible. Be sure to wipe down windowsills often after opening to prevent any pollen build-up. Using an air purifier or a dehumidifier will also help keep the air in your home as clean as possible during these months.

2. Stay inside on windy days.
Avoiding pollen is especially difficult on windy days. Keep an eye on your weather forecast and the pollen count and try to stay inside on those dry, windy days. The pollen count is typically highest in the morning. Since Bermuda grass gives off a high amount of pollen, save your golf outing for a calm, post-rain day.

3. Don’t hang your laundry outside.
If you like to hang your laundry outside during the summer months, try to avoid doing so. Hanging your laundry outside allows your clothes to collect pollen and potentially turn yellow. Be sure to always wash your clothes and shower after doing yardwork or spending time outside. The allergen easily collects on your clothes and in your hair.

4. Use a Neti pot or nasal spray.
Nasal saline irrigation is a great way to clear your clogged nasal passages. Many people report that using a Neti pot helps alleviate congestion and facial pressure. Nasal spray decongestants are a great alternative to using a Neti pot.

5. Take an antihistamine.
Antihistamines reduce and block the extra release of histamines in your body. Newer antihistamines have fewer side effects than older kinds, so when purchasing over the counter, avoid older brands. The main side effect of an antihistamine is drowsiness, so be aware when taking this medicine and try to take it before bed. As always, talk to your doctor at the Lake of the Ozarks to make sure it is safe for you to take an antihistamine.

Try one of these tips, or try all of them! Now that you understand what’s going on outside, hopefully you will have an easier time combatting your dreaded allergies and making the best of this season. If your allergy symptoms are still persisting, don’t hesitate to give Central Ozarks Medical Center a call. We have several conveniently located health clinics at the Lake of the Ozarks in Richland, Camdenton and Osage Beach. For more information about our locations, visit www.CentralOzarks.org/locations.html. Stay safe and comfortable this summer!

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

Friday, May 25, 2018

General Health Insurance FAQs

Did you know that Central Ozarks Medical Center will accept patients with and without insurance? 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. COMC’s goal is to keep the lack of insurance from being a roadblock to quality healthcare. Our health clinics at the Lake of the Ozarks are here to answer a few frequently asked questions regarding general health insurance.

General Health Insurance FAQs

Q: What's a co-payment?

A: Co-payments are typically where your insurance company has specified they will pay for a certain service, but you have to pay for a portion of it.

Q: What's a deductible and how does that apply to health insurance?

A: Deductibles are the amount of money you have to pay before your insurance kicks in. For example, if you have a healthcare insurance policy with a five thousand dollar deductible and you need a major surgery, typically your deductible will have to be paid before the insurance will cover any of your costs.

Q: Do I have to have health insurance?

A: The short answer is no, but it's completely up to you. Health insurance is good to have because it can offer peace of mind when unexpected tragic events happen involving your health. On the other hand, we accept patients with or without health insurance. It's all about what works best for you and your financial situation.

Q: What are pre-existing conditions and how are they handled?

A: According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, "Under current law, health insurance companies can’t refuse to cover you or charge you more just because you have a “pre-existing condition” — that is, a health problem you had before the date that new health coverage starts. These rules went into effect for plan years beginning on or after January 1, 2014."

Financial & Insurance Information

Insurances

We accept Medicare & Medicaid assignment along with:

Healthcare USA
Missouri Care
Home State Health Plan
Cigna
Aetna
HealthLink
Blue Cross Blue Shield
United Healthcare
United Healthcare Community Plan
TRICARE
GEHA
Other Insurances Accepted

Need Assistance Navigating the Health Insurance Process?

Our Assisters are here to help you. Finding health insurance that works best for your needs can be challenging on your own. The help you could need is just one call away. Call one of our clinics listed below. For more information on Central Ozarks Medical Center and the health services we provide, visit our website at www.CentralOzarks.org.

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

Friday, May 18, 2018

FAQs on the COMC Sliding Fee Discount Program

Central Ozarks Medical Center is committed to leading the way to healthier communities and we believe in offering quality health care that works best for your financial situation. We accept patients with and without insurance and offer a sliding fee scale based on income and family size. If you are uninsured and would like to look at insurance options, visit our health clinics at the Lake of the Ozarks. We have Assisters to help you navigate the process. Keep reading for a few answered FAQs on the COMC sliding fee discount program.

FAQs on the COMC Sliding Fee Discount Program

First of all, what's the Sliding Fee Discount Program?

Central Ozarks Medical Center offers 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.

How does it work?

To determine eligibility, COMC 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.

What services are not covered by the Sliding Fee Discount Program?

Services related to motor vehicle accident and work comp services
Lab/x-ray ordered by providers outside COMC
Elective/Cosmetic Procedures to include, but not limited to:

Circumcision
Removal of moles/skin tags (for cosmetic purposes)
Certain Dental Procedures
Piercings
Any supply related to contraception
Medical Weight Loss Program (SSHC)
Exam and lab work required for Boxing
Elective Dental Procedures
Bridge
Temporary Dentures
Porcelain Crowns

What would a Flu Vaccine cost under the Sliding Fee Discount Program?

Flu Vaccine:
Administration of Flu Vaccine with nurse only visit:

Discount Level A: $10.00
Discount Level B: $15.00
Discount Level C: $25.00

If the flu vaccine is administered at the time of an office visit, the normal discount fee will apply. COMC offers FREE Flu Vaccines at the Clinic’s Flu Fair. Inquiry may be made at reception.

Interested in Applying for the Sliding Fee Discount Program?

Visit our website at http://www.centralozarks.org/financial.html, scroll to the bottom and click DOWNLOAD SLIDING FEE DISCOUNT PROGRAM PACKET to download an application. Complete the application and turn in to your nearest Central Ozarks Medical Center clinic. If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to call us at one of the phone numbers listed below.

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

Friday, May 11, 2018

Healthy BBQ Recipes for Memorial Day Weekend

Memorial Day is right around the corner and it is very common for families to get together on this holiday weekend and have a nice barbeque. There are ways you can enjoy Memorial Day weekend, without eating thousands of calories in one day. Central Ozarks Medical Center is here to share with you a couple of great, healthy grilling recipes we found online that could be perfect for your Memorial Day weekend barbeque. We are committed to leading the way to healthier communities. If you are looking for a new doctor to help you with your overall health goals, call one of our health clinics at the Lake of the Ozarks. Visit our website at www.CentralOzarks.org for the contact information of each of our clinics.

Healthy BBQ Recipes for Memorial Day Weekend

Source: https://www.delish.com/cooking/recipe-ideas/recipes/a53184/pineapple-bun-burgers-recipe/

Pineapple Bun Burgers

Ingredients

1 lb. ground beef
1 tbsp. Worcestershire sauce
kosher salt
Freshly ground black pepper
8 pineapple rings
1 large red onion, sliced into rings
4 slices pepper jack
4 pieces romaine
8 slices cooked bacon

Directions
Heat grill to medium-high. In a large bowl, combine ground beef and Worcestershire and season with salt and pepper. Form into 4 patties.
Grill patties, pineapple, and red onion until charred, 3 minutes per side. Top burger patties with pepper jack and cover grill to let melt, 1 minute.
Top bottom pineapple buns with lettuce, burger patties, bacon, and grilled onions, then top with pineapple bun.

Source: http://www.eatingwell.com/recipe/264284/steak-potato-grill-packets-with-blue-cheese-rosemary/

Steak & Potato Grill Packets with Blue Cheese & Rosemary

Ingredients

6 servings

1 pound sirloin steak, sliced into 1-inch-thick pieces
3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil, divided
1½ teaspoons salt, divided
½ teaspoon ground pepper, divided
2 cloves garlic, minced, divided
5 cups halved baby red potatoes (about 1½ pounds)
5 cups halved and trimmed green beans (about 1 pound)
1 large onion, sliced
3 large sprigs rosemary, snipped in half
6 tablespoons crumbled blue cheese

Preparation

Preheat grill to medium-high. Cut six 14-inch lengths of heavy-duty foil. Coat 1 side of each piece of foil with cooking spray. Combine steak with 1 tablespoon oil, ½ teaspoon salt, ¼ teaspoon pepper and half the garlic in a small bowl; stir to coat. Stir together potatoes, green beans, onion, the remaining 2 tablespoons oil, 1 teaspoon salt, ¼ teaspoon pepper and the remaining garlic in a large bowl. Evenly divide the potato mixture among the foil sheets (place on the side coated with cooking spray), then top each with a portion of the steak and a sprig of rosemary. Gather together the long ends of each foil piece, then fold up its open sides to form a packet. Place the packets on the grill. Cook for 10 minutes, then flip and cook until the potatoes are tender and lightly charred, about 5 minutes more. Open each packet (be careful of the steam) and sprinkle with 1 tablespoon blue cheese.

We hope you enjoy these recipes or that they at least give you the inspiration to create your own healthy barbeque recipes for Memorial Day weekend. Enjoy the time with your families and friends!

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

Thursday, May 3, 2018

Sunburn Prevention Tips for 2018

The warmer temperatures are here again! While you probably can’t wait to get back outside and start swimming, hiking, camping, walking, kayaking, or canoeing again – safety first. If you are feeling ill due to a sunburn, you should contact your nearest health clinic at the Lake of the Ozarks as soon as possible. Central Ozarks Medical Center is here to give you a few sunburn prevention tips for 2018.

Sunburn Prevention Tips for 2018

Tip # 1
Wear a sun hat.
Wide-brimmed hats do the best for providing the most shade and protecting your skin from the harsh effects of the sun.

Tip # 2
Wear sunscreen.
Be mindful of the SPF level on your sunscreen. You should be using at least SPF 15 but the higher the number the stronger the sunscreen.

Tip # 3
Cover up.
Modest swimsuits that cover your everything from your shoulders to your kneecaps (for women) may not be the most flattering but they do provide a lot more protection if you are looking to swim but also be as protected from the sun as you possibly can.

Tip # 4
Try to stay in the shade as much as possible between 10 am and 4 pm.
The sun is at it’s strongest at these times, so do your best to find shade or be as covered as possible.

The COMC Health Clinics at the Lake of the Ozarks

We hope you found these sunburn prevention tips helpful. Central Ozarks Medical Center has been providing quality healthcare in Central Missouri since 1979. Central Ozarks Medical Center’s staff members are committed to leading the way to healthier communities.

Our Mission

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.

If you are feeling ill from a sunburn are would like to visit one of our local health clinics, we clinics in the following locations:

Richland Medical Center Location
304 W Washington Ave
Richland, MO 65556

Osage Beach Medical Center
ADDRESS
3870 Columbia Avenue
Osage Beach, MO 65065

Camdenton Medical Center
ADDRESS
404 W. Hwy. 54
Camdenton, MO 65020

Coming Soon!
ADDRESS
1652 N. Business Hwy 54
Camdenton, MO 65020

Please call for an appointment at the phone numbers listed below.

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