Income, Education Affect Tobacco Use

Source: Billings Gazette

Tobacco use and its health consequences disproportionately affect people who have lower incomes and education levels. Among Montanans who earn less than $15,000 a year, 40 percent smoke regularly, according to the Montana Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System.

Protect Yourself Against the Flu

Source: Billings Gazette

Nearly everyone from the age of 6 months on up should get vaccinated each year against influenza. Last flu season, 433 hospitalizations and 33 deaths in Montana were associated with the flu. Here are some other ways to protect yourself:

Getting to the heart of a medical home

Source: Billings Gazette

Why should patients care about having a medical home? Abi Ashcraft, a resident physician with the Montana Family Medicine Residency at RiverStone Health, explains the benefits of a Patient-Centered Medical Home.

Preparing Emergency Plans for Pets

Source: Billings Gazette

These tips should help you prepare an emergency plan to keep pets and livestock safe if you need to evacuate your home during a fire, flood or other natural disaster.

Hospice Looks Beyond Medical Needs

Source: Billings Gazette

Hospice cares for the physical and emotional needs of the terminally ill. It does not hasten death, but by managing symptoms to alleviate suffering, it allows people to spend quality time with family and friends.

Attacking Montana’s High Rate of Suicide

Source: Billings Gazette

Learn what community organizations are doing to lower the rate of suicide, and what you can do to help.

Tips for Staying Healthy on Campus

Source: Billings Gazette

One of our resident physicians offers sensible tips for students on eating right, handling stress and finding time to exercise during their freshman year away from home.

Getting Kids Ready for School

Source: Billings Gazette

A licensed clinical social worker at RiverStone Health Orchard School Clinic emphasizes the positive in tips for parents on helping kids start the new school year.