Staying healthy can start with a free Medicare Wellness Visit
For people enrolled in Medicare, a free annual wellness visit is part of your benefits. When you first enroll in Medicare, you can have a Welcome to Medicare Visit within the first 12 months that you are covered by Medicare Part B. Dr. Chris Baumert, family physician and medical director for RiverStone Health Clinics, offers information on scheduling your Medicare Wellness Visit and important topics to cover with your provider.
When antibiotics may – or may not – be the answer when you’re sick
We are fortunate to live in an age where advancements in medicine, public health and sanitation have significantly reduced infections that were once harmful to our health and quality of life. Antibiotics in particular have saved countless lives over the past several decades. Dr. William Hong, MD, a family physician at RiverStone Health Clinic, shares common infections you may see this fall and how to best protect you and your family.
How school-based health centers keep kids healthy
As parents and educators, we all want the best for our children. One of the most effective ways to support their growth and development is to make sure they stay healthy, especially during their school years. James Miller, physician assistant caring for students and families in RiverStone Health school-based health centers at Medicine Crow Middle School and Orchard Elementary, acknowledges the benefits of school-based health care and how RiverStone Health is growing this program.
Tips for packing a healthy and fun school lunch
As summer fades away and the new school year begins, it’s time to start planning for the busy days ahead. That includes planning for school lunches. Callie Miller, registered dietitian with RiverStone Health WIC nutrition program, shares expert tips on how to keep your kids healthy, energized, and full this school year.
Avoid dental problems by preventing dry mouth
Many people suffer from dry mouth and do not even realize it. Chronic dry mouth can be uncomfortable and can lead to dental problems like cavities and gum disease. It can also cause problems in tasting, chewing, swallowing and speaking. Shawnell Miller, dental hygienist at RiverStone Health Dental Clinic, provides tips on how to prevent dry mouth and other dental problems.
Advice for getting health insurance coverage again
In the last year, 1 in 10 Montanans has lost their healthcare coverage through Medicaid and Healthy Montana Kids. Many of these 135,000 people lost their coverage due to paperwork and complicated systems. Jeanne “Scooter” Gates, care management services manager with RiverStone Health shares how to recover your health insurance coverage to prevent delays in routine preventive checkups and more costly medical visits for you and your family.
Staying safe while sampling Billings’ many mobile food options
Food truck popularity continues to surge across Montana and Yellowstone County. With so many delicious and convenient options, it’s easy to see why they’re a hit. Jordan Machado, sanitarian-in-training with RiverStone Health shares how to remain safe while sampling mobile food options in Yellowstone County.
Celebrating milestones of hope at RiverStone Health
This year, RiverStone Health celebrates 50 years as the Yellowstone County Health Department and 40 years providing community health center services. Eric Owen, vice president of Public Health & Clinical Services at RiverStone Health shares the impact RiverStone Health has made over the years.
Protect your health in wildfire season
Breathing in smoke can cause coughing, trouble breathing, stinging eyes, scratchy throat, runny nose, irritated sinuses, wheezing and shortness of breath, chest pain, headaches, an asthma attack, tiredness, and fast heartbeat. Clark Snyder, registered sanitarian with RiverStone Health shares how to check air quality and how to stay safe this fire season.
Testing and tips for preventing lead poisoning in children
Lead can contaminate old water pipes in your home, chipping paint containing lead, contaminated dirt and soil, toys, food and more. Lead poisoning can lead to several adverse health outcomes, especially in children. Ellie Lanz, Prevention Health Specialist for RiverStone Health, shares the importance of testing and tips for preventing lead poisoning.
