Personal physical health, mental health, and even community health are all interconnected and provide a level of quality of life.

The Health page contains information about upcoming health-related events and activities in the community. Additionally, Rocky Mountain Physical Therapy will provide articles in the Our Health section of this page that suggest activities, life-style, and nutrition that can improve our over-all health.

Select from the links below to jump to that article listed.

• October 2024 Colfax County Health Collaborative Meeting
• Are you Getting Good Sleep?
• September 2024 Colfax County Health Collaborative Meeting
• August 2024 Health Collaborative meeting: Focus on back to School
• Raton Colfax County Relay for Life
• Staying Healthy While Flying
• Organic Meat – Is it Worth It?
• Colfax County Health Council Collaborative Meeting
• Buying Organic Fruits and Vegetables – Is it Worth It?
• How Do Over The Counter Drugs Work?
• A New System is in Place to Measure Heat Related Health Risk
• The Colfax County Health Council/Health Equity (CCHC/HE), DWI Planning: Monthly Meeting Highlights
• Will You Be Included in The Predicted Increase in Heart Disease?
• Rural Hospitals and Transfer of Medical Records
• Senator Luján Sponsors a Bill Streamlining Prescription Drug Process
• Benefits of Stretching by Mark Watz
• U.S. Will Reclassify Marijuana: A Major Change But It Remains a Controlled Substance
• Annual Family Health Fair a Great Success
• Do Omega-3 Fatty Acids Found in Fish Oils Improve Health?
• New Drugs for Obesity – A blockbuster or a drug with potential drawbacks?
• First Physical Cause for Long COVID Discovered
• Rocky Mountain Physical Therapy – Adam Johnson – Tips for Dealing With Winter Joint Pain
• Cigarette Smoking Effects in Relation to Physical Therapy
• Tainted Cinnamon
• Fun Facts About Your Bacteria in Your Gut
• Artificial Sweeteners – Are they safe to consume?
• Rocky Mountain Physical Therapy – Esther Choe
• Beware of Tianeptine – Gas Station Heroin
• Stop wasting your money on Multivitamins!
• Raton Regional Aquatic Center Offers Classes
• Life Expectancy in New Mexico
• Pinwheel Healing Centers Offers a Variety of Health and Well-Being Services
• Shrinking Medical Services at Miners Colfax Medical Center
• Overdose Deaths, Suicides, and Drug-Related Emergencies in Colfax County
• Covid Vaccine Update
• Students Provide Benefits to Raton at RMPT
• Rise in Syphilis Cases in Babies
• Raton High School Hosted Community Blood Drive
• Local Swimmer Reaches 900 Mile Milestone
• Our Health – health related articles by Rocky Mountain Physical Therapy staff

October 2024 Colfax County Health Collaborative Meeting

Healthy Kids Initiative and Upcoming Local Events

As reported by Sally Hoger

The Health Collaborative met on October 9. Highlights of the meeting are below.

• CCYES (Colfax County Youth Empowerment Services) is looking for families expecting a child or with kids from 0-5 years old for home visits to help connect families to available resources and supplies. If you know a family that could benefit from information and supplies, contact Ashley Medina or Ambrosia Trujillo (575) 445-0672 ). More information can be found at: CCYES Facebook Page

• Open enrollment for Medicare begins October 7. If you have questions, Stephanie Gonzales of NM Aging & Long-Term Services will be at the Raton Senior Center on October 21.

• The November meeting will be held at noon, November 13 at the Colfax Youth Empowerment building, 1900 Hospital Dr or via Zoom. All are welcome and there will be a Thanksgiving potluck.

• Healthy Kids Healthy Communities Report

Elizabeth Ortega reported The Healthy Kids Initiative has a focus on schools during September and October.

She continues to collect BMI measurements from selected students within the county.

For the kids, there will be a “Walking School Bus” on Friday. Parents can drop 5^th and 6^th grade students off at Tiger Stadium at 7:20 AM where they will meet staff who will accompany them on the quarter-mile walk to school.

Ms. Ortega will work with the city to get better markings at crosswalks for future Walking Buses.

For staff, there is a “Walktober” challenge. Staff and faculty are collectively logging miles walked hoping to reach the 500-mile goal.

Upcoming Health Fairs

The annual Mental Health Fair will be held at The Convention Center on or about March 1, 2025. There will be many information booths and brunch provided by KBob’s. There will also be speakers including one from law enforcement’s role in community mental health.

The annual Health Fair will be held at the Convention Center on April 18, 2025.

Are you Getting Good Sleep?

Posted October 6, 2024 – Written by Sally Hoger

Humans were meant to sleep in a biphasic pattern consisting of a “first” sleep, beginning at dusk and a “second” sleep after midnight with an hour or two of wakefulness around midnight. This changed when society became industrialized due to the invention of artificial light and the demand for a long workday outside the home. The average adult now sleeps about eight hours during the night, yet many people complain of lack of sleep or feeling fatigue during the day.

Exposure to light has a more profound effect on sleep than you may realize. This is because exposure to light before sleep interrupts the circadian pacemaker (also called the suprachiasmatic nucleus), a body of neurons at the base of the brain that controls release of hormones involved in bodily functions that have daily cycles, such as sleep, temperature and metabolism. Exposure to light also suppresses melatonin, the hormone that naturally makes you feel sleepy before normal bedtime.

Authors Lise Van Susteren and Stacey Colino* use the term Social Jetlag to describe irregular sleep patterns many people have in the modern age. This means we are often awake when we should normally be asleep or snoozing when we should be awake, often due to our work schedules. That doesn’t mean a person who works very early or late shifts necessarily suffers from social jetlag because the circadian clock gets attuned to the schedule. However, the authors stress that it is important not to vary the normal sleep schedule by more than an hour or two on days off from work.

Susteren and Colino describe how social jetlag is tied to a variety of disorders, often due to hormone disruptions, including heart disease and high blood pressure (due to cortisol and other hormones), obesity (due to suppression of the hormone leptin, which signals being full after eating), and anxiety (anxiety causes higher levels of cortisol and melatonin is disrupted).

People vary in sensitivity to altered sleep schedules. If you are feeling tired and edgy during the day, it may be a good idea to keep a very regular sleep schedule and identify how many hours of sleep you need to feel rested. For most people it is between 7 and 9 hours. Then figure out what time you need to be asleep to have enough time to prepare for your day without feeling rushed.

The authors propose some suggestions to promote better sleep:

BIG NUMBER 1:

It is very important to get off your phone and turn off the TV at least 90 minutes before bedtime. The blue light emitted from these devices is an especially potent suppressor of melatonin, which is normally released a couple hours before bedtime. Consider reading a book or writing in a journal instead.

2. KEEP IT DARK. Keep your sleeping area dark. If you have to get up during the night, turning on the bathroom light can cause up to a 50% reduction in melatonin. Consider a night light or installing a dimmer switch.

3. BRIGHTEN YOUR MORNINGS. Exposure to natural (not artificial) light upon rising is beneficial. If you are a morning person, experience the sunrise or consider taking a brisk walk before or after breakfast. Eat breakfast in a sunny spot.

September Colfax County Health Collaborative Meeting

Back to School and Support for Upcoming Local Events

Posted September 14, 2024. Written by Sally Hoger

The Health Collaborative met on September 11. Highlights of the meeting are below.

Healthy Kids Healthy Communities Report

Elizabeth Ortega of Healthy Kids Healthy Communities reported on the Eat Smart to Play Hard (ESPH) program that will be implemented in the Raton Intermediate School this year along with other schools in
Colfax County.

This program helps students get into the habit of healthy eating at home. Students in grades 3-5 are
encouraged to make delicious, simple recipes and complete fun activities at home with their families to
earn prizes.

All students that participate in ESPH receive a: 

• Fun book: a tracking booklet with weekly recipes and activities for students to do with their
  families.
• Prizes: infused water bottles, magnets, sport backpacks, and more prizes are earned for
  completing the recipes and activities in the fun book.
• Fun Day event (for all students at the school)

Banners will be hung on the school fence in the pick-up area to remind parents of the ongoing program.

Health Council Report

Ashley Medina reported that the Health Collaborative Council will support upcoming events

• Recovery Day. September 21. The Health Collaborative will have a booth at the Recovery Day
  Event taking place on 1 st Street and will supply water and Gatorade. This event celebrates
  Recovery. In addition, The Art of Snacks will provide Frito pie and a t-shirt to the first 100
  visitors.
• Pickle Ball Tournament, Sept. 20 – 22. The Health Collaborative will supply shirts and goodie
  bags to tournament participants.
• Mental Health Brunch – coming soon!

In addition, CCYES (Colfax County Youth Empowerment Services) is looking for families expecting a child
or with kids from 0-5 years old for home visits to help connect families to available resources and
supplies. More information can be found at:

CCYES Facebook Page

August 2024 Health Collaborative meeting: Focus on back to School

Posted August 17, 2024. Written by Sally Hoger

The Colfax County Health Council Collaborative meeting was held August 14^th. Elizabeth Ortega of the Healthy Kids Healthy Communities Coalition reported on efforts in schools in Colfax county. Part of the focus was on staff wellness. “Teachers need to teach students about healthy habits and set good examples”, Elizabeth told us.  Last year, teachers in her jurisdiction were assessed and scored low in areas such as hydration, eating vegetables and getting enough sleep and exercise. This prompted the coalition to design challenges to get teachers thinking about these things and tracking diet and exercise time.

Two other programs that are instituted into the schools:

• The Eat Smart Play Hard Campaign (UNM). This program is incorporated into the curriculum and strives to make eating healthy and exercising enjoyable and fun. Over 20,000 students in 15 counties throughout New Mexico have participated in the program. (see map).
• 5.2.1.0 Program: The numbers act as guidelines for the areas shown.

Another activity that Elizabeth will work on this fall is BMI assessment of kindergarteners and third graders. This is a state program in which the state selects schools at random and collects BMI data from two age groups, because obesity often begins before the third grade. She will collect data from Maxwell and Eagle Nest schools and send it to the State BMI Coordinator who works with an epidemiologist to produce an annual report for each region of the state.

Elizabeth also talked about the possibility of Raton having a league in The New Mexico Interscholastic Cycling League. This possibility was fueled by a recent event held recently at Sugarite Canyon State Park. Many kids and adult volunteers participated in the cycling event. The proposed league would be for students in grades six through twelve and it could be a mix of different types of bikes. If you are interested, you can contact Elizabeth Ortega at Hammer Forged Athletics or Ann Theis.

Approval of Bylaws and New Board Members

The Collaborative also approved by-laws and selected the following officers:
Chair: Michael Anne Holland
Vice-Chair: Ned Ortiz
Secretary: Erica Meadows
Members at large: Sally Hoger and Elizabeth Ortega

The next meeting will be held September 11 at 12:00 at the CYFD Building across from MCMC. All interested parties are welcome to attend.

Posted July 28, 2024

Raton Colfax County Relay for Life

by Sally Hoger

Relay for Life is an annual event that occurs globally that celebrates cancer recovery, admires those fighting cancer, lets us honor and remember those we lost and also raises money for The American Cancer Society (ACS). It began in 1985 and has been held in Raton for the past 23 years.

This is a great way to be part of the global community of passionate supporters who want to help end cancer as we know it. Cancer touches the lives of everyone at
some point.

The goal this year is to raise $20,000 for the ACS. Thanks to donations from individuals and local businesses, half of the money had already been raised by July 15.

Upcoming Events:

• August 3: Purple Passion- Relay Planning Committee will be having a Krispy Kreme
  Donut Sale at The KRTN Station on South 2nd Street.
• August 7: Purple Passion will sponsor Classic Night at the Movies. The show will
  be School of Rock with Jack Black. Concession stand will be open and there will
  be a drawing for prizes. The movie is free but any donations go to Relay for Life/ACS.

Here is what is happening at The Relay for Life Event on
August 17:

• Tiger Stadium: 2:00 PM – 9:00 PM.
  Teams will take turns walking or running around the track. The circular track
  represents the ongoing fight against cancer.
  
  There will be vendors, music, karaoke and a bouncy house for the kids.
• Luminarias will line the track at Tiger Stadium. You can purchase and decorate a
  luminaria ($5) in honor of a cancer survivor or to honor the memory of a loved
  one. Luminarias can be purchased from Julian Puentes Gutierrez (505-652-
  8341) or Missy Gutierrez at The Sweet Shop or from Elizabeth Tafoya (595-288-
  2929), Jamie Esquivel (575-707-0525), Mercy Swanson (505-850-9121) or David
  Swanson or any Relay for Life team member (via Facebook). An artist is
  available to design your luminaria for an additional $2.
• This year will be the First Annual Laurie Garcia Memorial Rock Garden. We invite
  you to paint your own Memorial rocks – about palm size – and bring them to Relay
  to be displayed. Memorial Rocks are not exclusive to cancer patients but instead
  are to remember anyone that we miss.
  
• Survivors Luncheon 1 PM (for cancer survivors only). If you are a cancer survivor
  but have not registered for the Survivor T-Shirt and would like to attend the
  luncheon, please RSVP to David Swanson or Elizabeth Tafoya. A form for the t-
  shirt can be found on the Facebook page and t-shirts will be available at the
  event.
  
  The luncheon is possible through the generous donations of local supporters.

Here is the link for more information about the event in Raton:
Raton Relay for Life
You can learn more about Relay for Life here:
https://secure.acsevents.org/site/SPageServer?pagename=relay_learn

Posted July 20, 2024

Staying Healthy While Flying

by Sally Hoger

Air travel can be stressful but does take us to new places or to see friends and loved ones, so it is important to consider a few important aspects related to your health. There are two things that are potentially life threatening. Here are some suggestions to help you.

Blood clots in the legs, also known as deep vein thrombosis, occur not because you are on a plane, but because you are sitting for too long. This also applies to car or train travel. It is not a common occurrence, but you are at a higher risk if you have recently been pregnant or had surgery, had an injury or cancer, are on hormones, are obese or have varicose veins. Blood clots are dangerous because the can break off from the clot into your leg vein and move to an areas such as your lungs or brain, a life-threatening situation. Even if a clot stays in your leg, you will have pain an swelling that is usually treated with blood thinners.

What to do: Before and during the flight do some leg exercises – see https://www.stoptheclot.org/in-flight-fitness/.

It is very important to get up and walk around every hour or two during the flight. Wear loose clothing and consider compression socks, which help increase blood flow in the legs.

Infectious disease caused by airborne pathogens is always a risk because you are in close proximity to people and the air is continually recirculated.

What to do: About the only thing you can do is wash your hands frequently and avoid touching your mouth and eyes.

Dehydration is likely to happen because the humidity on board is very low.

What to do: Hydrate, of course, before and during the flight. If you don’t want to
buy expensive water at the airport, you can bring an empty container with you
and fill it after going through security. I know you may be going on vacation or are
feeling anxiety but try to limit alcohol consumption on the plane. The same goes
for coffee.

Jet lag is also likely if you are crossing several time zones.

What to do: Practice going to bed earlier or later, depending on your direction of travel before leaving. If you arrive at your destination during the day and feel you must sleep a while, be sure to set an alarm clock so you just catch a couple hours of sleep. Then you can try to adjust to the local time. If it is evening when
you arrive, try to stay up a few more hours, maybe by taking a walk and exploring before sleeping.

Organic Meat – Is it Worth It?

July 14, 2024 – Sally Hoger

We recently covered the pros and cons of buying organic produce. Let’s have a look at the value of buying organic meats.

What is organic meat?

Organic farming practices for farm animals include:

• Healthy living conditions and access to the outdoors
• Pasture feeding for at least 30% of farm animals’ food during grazing season (no crowded feed lots like in conventional animal husbandry).
• Organic food for animals: no pesticides, no antibiotics, nothing genetically modified
• No growth hormones

Overall, the animals lead a better life.

The use of antibiotics as growth accelerators contributed to antibiotic-resistant bacteria but is now banned in meat produced in the United States. This does not mean antibiotics are not used in the production of meat, it just means that the antibiotics have cleared the animal before slaughter. Organic meat cannot be produced using antibiotics at all.

Cost: Organic meats cost 40% to 60% more than conventional meat according to Consumer Checkbook and Consumer Reports.

Environmental Impact: Raising meat requires large amounts of land and energy and produces greenhouse emissions. Organic ranchers use practices that minimize impacts to the environment surrounding the farm. They often recycle manure or compost into crop and pastureland to help avoid nutrient runoff and keep carbon in the soil, which offsets greenhouse emissions. Also, since nothing synthetic or toxic is used, there is no run-off into the water supply.

Is Organic meat Healthier?

Overall, studies do not indicate much difference in nutrition. Studies show organic meats have higher levels of omega-3 than conventional meats, but probably not enough to make much of a difference. Organic meat does have lower cholesterol due to the higher quality of feed.

Is Organic Meat Worth It?

That depends on the importance you place on animal welfare and preservation of the environment balanced with the increased cost. Some people say it tastes better and others choose to hunt for meat or pursue a plant-based diet.

Posted July 10, 2024

Colfax County Health Council Collaborative Meeting

by Sally Hoger

The Colfax County Health Council Collaborative Meeting was held on July 10. Highlights include:

• SOMETHING EVERY PARENT AND GRANDPARENT OF SMALL CHILDREN SHOULD KNOW ABOUT

The Colfax County Youth Empowerment Services (YES) program sponsors in-home visits for any pregnant woman and any parent with children up to five years old. Grandparents and extended family can also be included. The goal is to provide education about being a parent, answer questions, and help the new parents access available services. In addition, the group provides breast pumps, food, diapers, wipes and other baby supplies and sometimes cash cards. The visits are twice a month and last about 45 minutes.

The response to this program has been low, so please spread the word to anyone you know that could benefit. To start the process, contact:

Ashley Medina or Kristin Trujillo (575) 445-8191, amedina@co.colfax.nm.us, kristintrujillo@co.colfax.nm.us

• CONSULTANTS FOR CHILDREN MOVING INTO WOODY’S FURNITURE BUILDING

Megan Swanson told us about the team of professionals that will soon occupy the building. This group provides treatment for children with autism and a wide scope of other developmental disabilities. They help families use behavioral programs that benefit the child and create a healthy environment. A grand opening will be scheduled soon.

• UPDATES TO MEDICARE PART B

Stephanie Gonzalez of the Aging and Disability Resource Center gave a short presentation about one of the many services provided by the Aging and Long-Term Services Agency. Stephanie focused on some important changes to Medicare this year having to do with the availability of mental health screening, family and marriage counseling and coverage of mental health services provided by hospitals and rural health clinics. It’s described on page 46 of the 2024 Medicare Handbook. Many people do not know these services are available and she would like to travel to Raton to speak to groups of interested people. Her contact information is: stephanie.gonzales@altsd.nm.gov

Posted July 6, 2024

Buying Organic Fruits and Vegetables – Is it Worth It?

by Sally Hoger

Organic vegetables are raised without synthetic pesticides and with farming practices that conserve the soil and water. Organic meats have a different set of criteria and will be examined in an upcoming article.

Consuming pesticides may lower your cancer risk, but you should also consider the impact that commercially grown products have on the environment and on the workers, who are exposed to high doses.

Organic produce is better for the environment because it takes a lot of energy to produce the chemicals and they run off into surrounding soil and water, harming wildlife. The disadvantage of organic farming is that crop yields are lower, so more land is needed (but still far less land than it takes to raise meat).

BUT

Organic fruits and vegetables are more expensive and may be difficult to find locally. There is not much organic at our grocery store, but we do have Ramel Farms which uses no or very minimal amounts of less toxic pesticides.

Here are a few price comparisons from WalMart:

Organic                           Non-organic

Bananas           $.74/lb                             $.58/lb

Avocado           $1.00 – 1.25 each       $.58 -.77 each

Limes                2.98/lb                             $2.49/lb

It turns out pesticide levels vary a lot depending on the type of product, so sometimes, it is not worth it to pay extra for the organic version. Every year, the Environmental Working Group tests produce and releases lists of foods with heavy contamination (the “dirty dozen”) and those with no or very little residue (The “Clean Fifteen”).

The most pesticide-contaminated produce includes peaches, pears and apples. Spinach is likely to carry a pesticide that has been banned in the EU and kale and other greens may contain cancer-causing pesticides. Blueberries recently joined the “dirty dozen” because samples were found to contain a pesticide banned by the EPA years ago.

The cleanest produce has peels that you would not eat. Avocado and corn, for example had no pesticide residue. Other “clean” items include melons, winter squash, onions, cabbage, mushrooms, mangos and pineapple.

You can learn more about the Environmental Woking Group here:

https://www.ewg.org/foodnews

Another option is to buy locally from small farmers. These growers are less likely to add the extra cost of pesticides and you can ask them. Recently, I saw  beets at a farmers’ market and the grower told me they had used neem oil, a natural pesticide with no adverse effects, once during growing. I happily made the purchase.

Posted June 25, 2024

How Do Over The Counter Drugs Work?

by Sally Hoger

The majority of Americans, about 85%, use some type of over the counter (OTC) medication each year and the average person spends about $338 on various products. It occurred to me, as I was taking some Ibuprofen, that I did not know how it works in the body. It turns out aspirin and most of the pain relief medications work the same way, although there are subtle differences.

Below is a short description of how the most common OTC drugs work.

OTC Pain Relievers

Ibuprofen, aspirin and naproxen are nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) while acetaminophen (Tylenol) is an analgesic They both reduce pain and fever, but NSAIDS also reduce inflammation (swelling) at the site of the pain.

How do pain relievers work?

Both acetaminophen and ibuprofen block part of the cyclooxygenase (COX) pathway in your body and keep you from making prostaglandin. Prostaglandin is a signal molecule involved in pain and swelling in your body. Ibuprofen is different from acetaminophen in that it not only works in your brain, but also in the rest of your body. That’s how it can reduce inflammation as well as pain and fever.

OTHER OTC Meds

• Laxatives – stimulant laxatives like biscodyl (Dulcolax) work by stimulating the nerves in your large intestine to increase peristalsis, or bowel contractions, which moves stools along. They also bring extra water into the intestines.
• Anti-diarrheal drugs such as Bismuth subsalicylate work by decreasing the flow of fluids and electrolytes into the bowel, reducing inflammation within the intestine.
• GasX – works by reducing the surface tension the gas bubbles in your intestine so they combine together and are easier to pass. In my experience, it doesn’t really do anything.

Heartburn Medications

There are different types. Two of the most common are

• Tums. Rolaids. Mylanta: work to neutralize stomach acid
• Tagamet and Pepcid are Histamine-2 Blockers. They block histamine from stimulating the H2-receptors located on the gastric parietal cells (these cells secrete hydrochloric acid).

Antihistamines

Antihistamines used to treat allergies also block histamine release, but here histamines are released in response to something that you are allergic to, like pollen. These drugs block a different receptor on cells, called H1, which are present in your nasal mucosa and brain.

Posted June 17, 2024

A New System is in Place to Measure Heat Related Health Risk

by Sally Hoger

Next week will break some climate records in the United States as a heat wave moves across the Chicago, Kansas City, St. Louis area and throughout the Northeast. Pittsburg will have its highest temperature ever and June will make the thirteenth consecutive month that average global temperatures have been the highest on record. Dangerous heat waves, like the recent one in Arizona, cause an increase in heat-related deaths among the elderly, homeless and those who work outside and they put a strain on hospitals and first-responders.

The National Weather Service and the CDC have just announced a new system called HeatRisk with four categories to help people including employers, health facilities and other decision makers plan for heat extremes. Category 4 (or purple on the interactive map) is the most extreme and is meant to be rare but will be present in the areas listed above this week.

The interactive map, called HeatRisk, appears on websites for both the National Weather Service and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. You can enter dates and locations to see the predicted health risk category. Health Risk is based upon humidity, how long the het lasts, how unusual that level of heat is for an area and other factors (see CDC link above).

Posted June 15, 2024

The Colfax County Health Council/Health Equity (CCHC/HE), DWI Planning: Monthly Meeting Highlights

by Sally Hoger

• It is the end of the fiscal year, so all groups are working on budgets. Ashley Medina reported that CCHC/HE met all 2024 deliverables and was awarded the full sum of $15,333. Congratulations – but it gets better. For 2025 there is $70,500 available, thanks to efforts by The Health Alliance and Representative Chatfield. Ashley and Nicole Romero from the Department of Health will complete the application and report further at the July meeting.
• Crime Stoppers and The DWI Planning Council will sponsor Classic Night at The Movies: Star Wars – A New Hope. June 26 at 7 PM at The Shuler. Doors open at 6:00. There is a costume contest and door prizes.
• New Mexico WIC & Senior Farmer’s Market Cards can be refilled with $50 for use at local Farmer’s Markets and at Ramel Family Farms.
• The Children Youth and Families Dept. will sponsor school supplies for next school year and will host an event for kids with special needs. Both are later this summer, dates to be announced.
• The next meeting is July 10 at 12:00 at the CYFD Building, 1900 Hospital Dr. That meeting will feature The Aging and Disability Resource group presentation of Medicare and Medicaid updates. The group is currently working with the Health Equity Council to set up face-to-face assistance at a location in Raton. Molina Healthcare will also talk about available services.

Posted June 15, 2024

Will You Be Included in The Predicted Increase in Heart Disease?

by Sally Hoger

A large advisory group working with the American Heart Association was able to predict prevalence of heart disease for the next 25 years using large databases and statistical methodology based on recent trends.

By 2050, more than 6 in 10 Americans will have some kind of cardiovascular disease (that’s 61%, compared to 48% at the present time). This trend will include younger people and will be more pronounced in the Black and Hispanic populations. The overall burden of these diseases will have an enormous adverse impact on the health of the nation.

It is predicted Americans will not make significant lifestyle changes to stop this trend, even though fewer people now smoke, and we have seen a decrease in high cholesterol (due to diet, the researchers found). But these gains will likely be off-set by increases in the prevalence of hypertension, diabetes, and obesity.

Here are the changes that could change the trend. How many fit you?

• Getting 7 to 9 hours of sleep each night
• · Following a Mediterranean or DASH diet. DASH is Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension and focuses on eating grains, vegetables, low-fat dairy and avoiding saturated fats in oils and meats
• · Getting at least 150 minutes of moderate physical activity per week
• · Managing blood sugar and diabetes risk
• · Maintaining a healthy weight with a body mass index of less than 25
• · Keeping non-HDL cholesterol levels below 130 mg/dL
• · Keeping blood pressure below 120/80 mmHg
• · Not smoking or vaping

Forecasting the Burden of Cardiovascular Disease and Stroke in the United States Through 2050—Prevalence of Risk Factors and Disease: A Presidential Advisory From the American Heart Association. Circulation, June 2024

Posted June 8, 2024

Rural Hospitals and Transfer of Medical Records

by Sally Hoger

Most rural hospitals are able to provide primary care, emergency care, laboratory testing and basic imaging like X-rays and CAT scans, but patients have to transfer to
larger facilities for specialized care and some imaging like MRI scans. When electronic health records (EHRs) were conceived in 1972, it was thought the patient’s records from
the original hospital would be easily transferred – but this is not the case! Hospitals were slow to adopt EHRs and they did not become mandatory until 2009.


Some stumbling blocks are:
 There are at least ten different electronic platforms available, and they do not necessarily communicate with each other. Federal funding became available so all hospitals could digitize patient records and a legislative mandate prioritizes electronic interoperability software allowing the different EHR systems to work with each other.

 Patient portals allow patients to see labs, scans and other data. Some systems allow the patient to print or fax this information. Many patients do not use patient portals due to lack of technical savvy, privacy concerns and some portals are just not user-friendly.

Miner’s Colfax Medical Center (MCMC) updated to state-of-the-art software in Fall 2022 that includes interoperability with other clinical and financial systems. MCMC offers a full array of scans including MRIs. The scans cannot be seen on the patient portal, but the interpretations made by the radiologist are available.

Scans can be sent electronically from MCMC to some hospitals and clinics, or they can be sent via certified mail, or a digital copy can be given to the patient to bring to the doctor. This process is not automatic. A request must be made by the clinic, the doctor or by the patient, so even with technology in place, so there is a human element involved. Electronic systems can have checklists built in to assure everything having to do with a transfer is accomplished, but many smaller hospitals don’t use the systems at
this level.

Some of the key factors involved in transfer of medical records include communication:

 Does the patient know EHRs are needed at the place they are going to get care?

 Does the patient know they have access to a patient portal or is there a family member/friend to help?

 Does the transferring facility have a system in place to make sure the needs of the transferred patients are met?

Posted May 31, 2024

Senator Luján Sponsors a Bill Streamlining Prescription Drug Process

by Sally Hoger

Have you ever gone to a physician or a pharmacy for a prescription only to find you need “prior authorization” first?

Prior authorization came about years ago as a tool used by insurance companies to keep doctors from prescribing new and expensive drugs when an older or cheaper drug was available. But now, prior authorization is needed for a wide variety of drugs (and also procedures and tests). The doctors must try to predict what drugs they can get for the patient and then fill out a variety of forms that include complex data and codes. Traditional channels for submitting prior authorization requests have been by phone, fax or a web portal.

This process can take anywhere from a day to a month. Talk about compromising patient care!

Our senator, Ben Ray Luján, is part of a bipartisan group that has just introduced a Bill (S. 4349) that at least streamlines the process. The proposed Bill will mandate the use of electronic submission for prior authorization requests. This streamlined process will speed up the delivery of the drug to the patient and give doctors more time to focus on medical care and less time doing paperwork.

Here is a quote from Senator Wicker (R, MS, another sponsor of the bill): “Our legislation would digitalize the process, saving providers time and speeding up the care patients need. It’s time for health systems to leave the age of the fax machine and step into the 21st century.”

Other sponsors are Manchin (D-WV), Marshall (R-KS), Whitehouse (D-RI). The bill will still require house and senate votes.

Posted May 24, 2024

Benefits of Stretching

by Mark Watz

Mark Watz is a Physical Therapy Student at Creighton University in Omaha, Nebraska. He will graduate in May 2025 and hopes to specialize in the field of neurology physical therapy.  He is currently working/training at Rocky Mountain Physical Therapy in Raton.

Benefits of a Daily Stretching Program

Some people think that stretching is only for runners or athletes, but this is a common misconception. There are numerous benefits to a daily stretching program, including increased flexibility and potential decrease in pain. When muscles are injured or stressed beyond what is typically normal, they contract and sometimes are unable relax. This shortening can be painful and limits a person’s ability to walk, play sports or complete household activities. Stretching can relax the muscle and decrease a person’s pain levels. One article found a connection between long-term stretching and improved cardiovascular responses. This includes improved blood vessel integrity and decreased blood pressure.

A 2019 study conducted by Sage Journal found that subjects who implemented a daily stretching program into their everyday activities had a significant improvement in sleep quality, reduced pain and improved cognitive functions. This study included 19 males who were relatively inactive, averaging only 180 minutes of activity per week. The study implemented a 10-minute whole body stretching routine using various yoga poses and techniques. This study found that through completing this program every day, the individuals reported lower levels of anxiety, increased energy, and reduced instances of depression and confusion.

Included below are good stretches to implement into your daily life that will help prevent pain in the future and maintain good posture.

One important consideration to remember is to not stretch cold muscles. One way to accomplish this is to walk for 5-10 minutes before stretching to get blood flow throughout your body.

First sit on your right hand and put your left ear to left shoulder to a tolerable stretch and hold for 1 minute. Then, while keeping your left ear to left shoulder, rotate your head down (“look into your left pocket”). Repeat on other side

• This is a stretch for your shoulders and chest and is also good for correcting forward posture.

It can be done in a doorway or a room corner. Put your arms at shoulder level and lean forward until you feel a tolerable stretch. Hold for 1 minute and repeat 2 more times.

• This is a good stretch if you have pain in the middle of your back between your shoulder blades and also for correcting posture.

Cross your arms and hold on to something with both hands. Pull back and you should feel a stretch in the middle of your back. Hold for 1 minute and repeat 2 more times.

• This is a good stretch if you have pain in your lower back and improves flexibility of the back, neck and shoulders.

Start on the ground on all fours with a flat back. Inhale and bend your back up towards the ceiling and bring your chin to your chest. Hold for 5-10 seconds. Then exhale as you bring your stomach to the floor and hold again for 5-10 seconds.

• This is a good stretch for people who sit for extended periods of time. It stretches the front of the hip and can contribute to hip and knee pain.

Bring your right leg in front of you so that your right thigh is parallel to the floor, with your knee bent at a 90-degree angle and your foot flat on the floor. Put your hands on your hips, then bring your thumbs downward like you are trying to tuck your pelvis under you. With your back straight, shift your weight forward until you feel a stretch through the front of the left thigh and groin. (For an even deeper stretch, reach your left arm up overhead and slightly toward the right.) Hold for 1 minute and repeat on the other side.

• This is a good stretch for people with lower back, hip, or knee pain.

Begin sitting in chair with your feet touching the ground, place one foot over the knee, and then gently lean forward (Keep your back straight and lean forward from your hips.) You should feel a stretch along the back side of the hip. Hold for 1 minute and repeat on the other side

• This is a good stretch if you have pain in the back of your thigh or behind your knee.

Begin sitting in chair with your feet touching the ground, place one foot over the knee, and then gently lean forward (Keep your back straight and lean forward from your hips.) You should feel a stretch along the back side of the hip. Hold for 1 minute and repeat on the other side

• This is a good stretch if you have pain in the front of your thigh or knee pain.

Start by holding right ankle with your right hand and pull as far as is comfortable. Hold for 1 minute and repeat on the other leg.

• This is a good stretch for shin splints, pain in the back of the lower leg or pain behind the knee.

Stand facing a wall with your hands on the wall at about eye level. Put the leg you want to stretch about a step behind your other leg. Keeping your back heel on the floor, bend your front knee until you feel a stretch in the back leg. Hold the stretch for 1 minute and repeat 2 more times.

In conclusion, stretching will help decrease pain, increase flexibility, improve sleep quality and cognitive function. Stretching has also shown to improve cardiovascular health. Overall, there are numerous benefits to stretching for everyone and will only require a short amount of time. By dedicating just a few minutes each day to stretching, individuals can significantly enhance their overall well-being. Whether you’re an athlete or someone with a sedentary lifestyle, the positive impacts of stretching are universal and profound.

Citations:

Sudo, M., & Ando, S. (2020). Effects of Acute Stretching on Cognitive Function and Mood States of Physically Inactive Young Adults. Perceptual and Motor Skills, 127(1), 142-153. https://doi.org/10.1177/0031512519888304

Kruse, N.T., Scheuermann, B.W. Cardiovascular Responses to Skeletal Muscle Stretching: “Stretching” the Truth or a New Exercise Paradigm for Cardiovascular Medicine?. Sports Med 47, 2507–2520 (2017). https://doi.org/10.1007/s40279-017-0768-1

“Warming up to the benefits of stretching.” Premium Official News, 12 July 2018. Gale Business: Insights, link.gale.com/apps/doc/A549685779/GBIB?u=creighton&sid=bookmark-GBIB&xid=c2c6ec6e. Accessed 19 May 2024.

Posted May 3, 2024

U.S. Will Reclassify Marijuana: A Major Change But It Remains a Controlled Substance

by Sally Hoger

The policy change will move marijuana from a Schedule I drug to Schedule III drug. Schedule I and II drugs are defined as “drugs with a high potential for abuse” and are addictive and dangerous. Heroin is a Schedule I drug and methamphetamine, cocaine and oxycodone are Schedule II drugs.  Schedule III drugs have a moderate to low potential for dependence and include Tylenol with codeine and anabolic steroids.

This is very significant because the justice department stubbornly kept marijuana classified as a schedule I drug even though it has very few harmful effects and many benefits to the use of medical marijuana have been demonstrated. 70% of Americans favor full legalization of marijuana (Gallup poll).

The change was prompted by Biden who called for review of the law in Fall of 2022 when he called for the pardon of thousands of people convicted under federal law for simple possession. In New Mexico, many people convicted under state law had past convictions expunged when marijuana became legal in 2021.

The change will not end criminalization of the drug but could lead to the softening of other laws and regulations such as sentencing guidelines, employment, access to public housing and medical research. In states without legalized medical marijuana, little changes because physicians still will not be able to prescribe the drug, however, the VA may allow clinicians to start prescribing to patients.

This also won’t change much in New Mexico, where marijuana became legal in 2021 for recreational use (possession of less than 2 ounces or 800 mg of edibles or 6 cultivated plants) but distribution can be a misdemeanor or felony offense. It is also illegal to use marijuana in public areas or to drive under the influence.

Annual Family Health Fair a Great Success

by Sally Hoger

The convention Center was bustling with venders and participants attending the annual health fair. Visitors entering the fair had the opportunity to try a DWI simulator provided by the Colfax County DWI/UAD Prevention Program. Inside the main room and spilling over into the side area representing everything from focus on children (Growing Great Kids, Colfax County Health Council, HeadStart, Team Builders, the State of New Mexico Children, Youth and Families Department), to rural health (MCMC Hospital and MCMC Long Term Care and Everyone Deserves, a State Program for rural mental health, and a new Medicaid medical transport system), to Medicare and Medicaid information.

But if you missed the fair, one of the main reasons to attend is the availability of free and reduced-price medical services.

• Vaccines were offered by Blue Cross Blue Shield including COVID, FLU and
  Hepatitis vaccines.
• The Lions Club offered Vision Screening
• Blood tests were available including:

Complete Metabolic Panel: tells you if you may have diabetes, kidney or liver problems.
Blood Count: May detect some blood cancers or anemia.
Lipid Panel: Tells you if you have high cholesterol or may have heart disease.
These tests are available at bargain prices.

Posted April 14, 2024

Do Omega-3 Fatty Acids Found in Fish Oils Improve Health?

By Sally Hoger

Omega-3, or Fish Oil, is the most widely used supplement in the United States. Manufacturers make a multitude of claims pertaining to the benefits of this product including heart health (less likely to have a heart attack), stroke, brain function (improves learning and memory), stimulates immune system, eye health, improves skin and joints and reduces symptoms of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and asthma and aids in sleep in children. 

It sounds like Omega-3 does it all. Examination of scientifically based evidence (data from clinical trials) has determined the following:

• Research indicates that omega-3 supplements don’t reduce the risk of heart disease or stroke. However, people who eat oily fish such as salmon, cod, or tuna one or more times a week are less likely to die of heart disease, particularly if they have already had one heart attack. This may be due to the omega-3 in the fish, or it may be because people who include fish in the diet eat a healthier diet anyway.
• High doses of omega-3s can reduce levels of triglycerides.

But wait – if triglycerides can be lowered, doesn’t that reduce the risk of heart disease? The answer to that is there is very high doses of prescription omega-3 are used to lower triglycerides in people who already have very high levels of triglycerides and are at risk of pancreatitis. The high doses can cause heart fibrillations though.  It is not safe to take over the counter supplements at high doses because they differ in composition from the prescription type.

For the following conditions, there is either no evidence for an effect or studies are conflicting, and more research needs to be done:

• ADHD, asthma in kids
• Depression and other mental conditions
• Alzheimer’s and dementia
• Immune function
• Rheumatoid arthritis
• Eye diseases

Conclusions:

“We have so many evidence-proven tools to prevent heart disease – but fish oil supplements are not one of them.” Ann Marie Navar, M.D., Ph.D. , Cardiologist, UT Southwestern Medical Center

Hard data suggesting little effect from omega-3 have not curtailed their use. So, if you want to continue taking these supplements, they are generally considered safe, but consult you doctor if you take any drugs for a clotting disorder or are allergic to fish and do not take high doses.

You can learn more about omega-3s here: https://www.nccih.nih.gov/health/omega3-supplements-in-depth

Posted April 6, 2024

New Drugs for Obesity – A blockbuster or a drug with potential drawbacks?

by Sally Hoger

You have probably heard about the new drugs that people are using for weight loss with pretty amazing results. The two drugs approved in the US are Wegovy and Ozempic. They are actually the same drug, which mimics a hormone that slows down the emptying of the stomach, so people feel less hungry. Ozempic is approved for people with diabetes and Wegovy is for people with obesity and other health problems, especially heart problems.

Here are a few facts to know about the drugs:

1. Do they work?

Yes, on average a person can expect to lose from 12% to 20% of body weight over a year. So, if you weigh 200 pounds, that’s about 30 pounds. You inject the drug into your abdomen once a week.

• Do I have to keep taking the drug indefinitely?

Yes, all evidence shows that if you stop taking the drug you will quickly gain back the weight and if you have diabetes, you will face problems controlling it. But the weight control drugs do often eliminate the need for other drugs such as those for high blood pressure, statins, or diabetes control. People taking the drugs tend to be very satisfied with the results.

• How much do they cost? Does my insurance cover them?

The cost of the drugs is over $1000 per month and most insurance companies do not cover them for weight loss. If you have diabetes or other health issues, insurance may cover them, and Medicare just announced it will cover Wegovy if the person also has heart problems. There is such a high demand, pharmacies are often out of the drugs.

• Are there any side effects?

The most common side effect is stomach pain or discomfort. While most people are very good about not missing doses, gastric problems are the top reason for stopping use. There is also a chance of retinopathy in people with diabetes, so it is important to monitor eye health. Also, some people complain that weight is lost in the wrong place – the face – causing them to look older, a phenomenon dubbed “Wegovy face.”

• What if I take the drugs but continue eating junk food, sugary drinks and not exercising?

Good question, but all studies have been conducted in groups that had a healthy diet and exercise. Diet and exercise maximize the benefits and not having a healthy diet or exercising is listed as a top cause for people not losing weight on the drug.  

Posted March 31, 2024

First Physical Cause for Long COVID Discovered

By Sally Hoger

Long COVID is described as continued symptoms after a COVID infection and can be debilitating enough to have a severe impact on daily life. Long COVID can last for months or years and symptoms may be like the original infection, but more often different symptoms such as chronic pain, brain fog, shortness of breath, chest pain, and intense fatigue appear.  It is known that one of the main symptoms of long covid is fatigue, but we did not know until recently what changes in the body cause these symptoms. In January, a paper from the journal Nature Communications confirmed that people with long COVID have a reduced ability to exercise using a stationary bicycle compared to more healthy persons and that oxygen uptake is lowered. Examination of muscle tissue showed some unusual deposits in muscle tissue as well as a decrease in enzymes usually produced by mitochondria, tiny structures we have in all of our cells that provide power to our cells.  Impaired mitochondria in the brain and nervous tissue may also explain the brain fog too, although more research is needed to confirm. There is really no specific treatment for long COVID, but now we can start looking for treatment that targets or stimulates the abnormal mitochondria. The odds of getting long COVID after being infected are unknown, probably about 1% to 2% of all cases result in long COVID. Vaccination may prevent getting COVID in the first place and several studies have shown that even if a vaccinated person does get COVID, the chance of getting long COVID are much lower than in unvaccinated people.

Posted March 31, 2024

Tips for Dealing With Winter Joint Pain

Rocky Mountain Physical Therapy – Adam Johnson

I am originally from Traverse City, MI and am a doctoral student in Physical Therapy from University of St. Augustine in Austin, TX. In my free time, I enjoy going for walks with my dog, cooking, singing, working out, and watching documentary films. I will be graduating in April 2024.

Adam Johnson

Many people who experience joint pain notice that their pain can be more severe during the winter season. Some people even notice a change in their joint pain depending on barometric pressure changes. While we can’t control the weather, there are many factors that affect joint pain that we do have control over.

In this article, I will discuss 5 ways that you can reduce your joint pain in the winter. However, these methods will also be effective at any time of year.

Get moving!– A catchy phrase in the physical therapy world is, “motion is lotion.”  As you move your joints, whether on a walk outside or in a gym, lubricating fluid is released within each joint that facilitates easier more comfortable movement. In addition, getting your body moving causes your body to produce endorphins, which help to reduce pain. Any exercise will produce some level of endorphins, though more vigorous aerobic exercise that gets your heart rate up and causes you to break a sweat will produce a stronger effect.

Heat– Therapeutic heat can help to both relax tight muscles and relieve sore joints. One of the easiest ways to use this method is by taking a hot bath or shower. Other ways to apply therapeutic heat more specifically can be achieved with such products as microwaveable heat packs and electrically powered infrared heating pads.

Eat a less inflammatory diet– Your diet can have a big impact on your pain levels. In general, the more inflammatory foods are in your diet, the worse your pain will tend to be. Notable inflammatory food items include sugar, processed foods, alcohol, and fried foods. A diet rich in anti-inflammatory food items such as fruits and vegetables helps to produce a less inflammatory environment in the body. Spices such as turmeric also have anti-inflammatory properties. The more anti-inflammatory items you include in your dieton a daily basis, the less pain you will tend to experience.

Improve sleep–Quality sleep is the foundation of good health. If you’re not sleeping well, not only will you be tired – you will also tend to be in more pain. Poor sleep significantly increases inflammation in the body and this more inflamed environment tends to make pain conditions worse. Ideally you should be getting 7-9 hours of sleep a night. Some ways to improve sleep quality include a consistent sleep schedule, limited caffeine in the afternoon/evening, and taking a hot bath or shower before bed.

Magnesium supplementation– Magnesium is a mineral with countless important roles in the body including helping with muscle relaxation and stress-management. In general, the more stressed out you are, the worse your pain levels will tend to be. Also, having high stress levels will tend to negatively affect sleep, increasing inflammation in the body. Most people don’t consume the optimum amount of magnesium in their normal diets, so taking a magnesium supplement can be helpful to reach this target. Magnesium supplements are commonly available in grocery stores as drink mixes such as “Calm” by Natural Vitality.

Cigarette Smoking Effects in Relation to Physical Therapy

Rocky Mountain Physical therapy: Josh Flaherty, SPT

• Smoking narrows blood vessels leading to decreased oxygen and nutrient blood to healing sites.
• Non-smokers with a broken bone will heal 80% quicker than a smoker with a broken bone.₂

Smoking can increase risks after joint replacements₃

• Higher rates of hospital readmission following Total Hip replacements
• Relative Risk Ratio of 18-32%  of developing lower respiratory tract infection/heart attack in smokers compared to non-smokers
• 1 year mortality rate of smokers following THA/TKA hazard ratio is 37-52% compared to non-smokers and ex-smokers
• Range of motion of replaced joint is lower postoperatively in patients that smoke (2.5 points less on Oxford hip score and 3.2 points less on Oxford knee score. Scores taken 6 months after operation.)
• Adverse effects following surgery seen in smokers were not seen in ex-smokers!

Physiological effects on Cardiopulmonary systems₁

• Accelerated decline in forced expiratory volume of lungs, a 19% reduction in vital lung capacity, and forced expiratory flow significantly affected creating potential for small airway disease
• Maximum power output reduction from 825kpm/min to 575kpm/min indicating muscles are impaired by smoking
• VO₂ max (amount of oxygen uptake during exercise) reduction of 2L/min to 1.35L/min
• These reductions in values effect daily life, not just exercise!

Benefits of quitting₄

• Within days your blood vessels will regain normal function
• within weeks senses of taste/smell will improve
• within months symptoms of bronchitis and lung function improve
• reduction in risk of heart attack/stroke within 2-5 years and lung cancer in 5-9 years
• MORE MONEY IN YOUR WALLET

TIPS TO QUIT₄

• Make a list of reasons to quit and a list of others who have quit, and have someone join you in the journey
• Utilize low calorie snacks/sugar free gum as oral distractions
• Reward yourself with saved money
• Nicotine replacement therapy tapering down dosage of patches
• Nicotine receptor blocker prescription drugs; Bupropion & Varenicline
• Cessation hotline 1-800-QUIT-NOW                                                                                                              

References:

• 1.Adatia A, Wahab M, Shahid I, Moinuddin A, Killian KJ, Satia I. Effects of cigarette smoke exposure on pulmonary physiology, muscle strength and exercise capacity in a retrospective cohort with 30,000 subjects. PLoS ONE. 2021;16(6):1-13. doi:10.1371/journal.pone.0250957
• 2.Csatari J, Cooper A. 12 new reasons to quit smoking now. Men’s Health. 1995;10(5):36. Accessed February 10, 2024.
• 3.Matharu GS, Mouchti S, Twigg S, et al. The effect of smoking on outcomes following primary total hip and knee arthroplasty: a population-based cohort study of 117,024 patients. Acta Orthop. 2019;90(6):559-567. doi:10.1080/17453674.2019.1649510
• 4.Smoking cessation: New ways to quit. Harvard Men’s Health Watch. 2008;13(4):4-7. Accessed February 11, 2024.

Tainted Cinnamon

March 10, 2024 – by Sally Hoger

Cinnamon contaminated with lead has been widely distributed in the United States, causing over 400 poisoning cases in 43 states. The source of the contaminated product has been traced to a single grinding wheel in Ecuador.

Much of the cinnamon was in pouches of applesauce for kids and some was in bags and jars on the spice shelf. These products were largely sold at discount stores such as Dollar Tree and Family Dollar and also by Amazon. The pouches contained far higher levels of lead than the jars of cinnamon – about 2000  to 5000 parts per million. There is no safe level of lead consumption and any of these products should be discarded. Symptoms of lead poisoning do not typically show up right away. Over time, babies and children are most affected with physical and mental problems but adults can have long-term effects too, such as headaches, abdominal problems, memory problems and low sperm count. Miscarriages and still births can occur in pregnant women.

The FDA cited WanaBana, an applesauce manufacturer and packager located in Ecuador, for failing to test its cinnamon applesauce pouches for heavy metals. The agency said the company should have taken steps to mitigate the risk that cinnamon it was buying for its product. An FDA inspection of the plant found neither raw materials nor finished product were tested for heavy metals, some pasteurization steps were skipped and there were problems with adequate sanitary facilities.

The FDA has limited jurisdiction to police food manufacturers in other countries, so we always run the risk of contaminated imported food. That leaves the burden on manufacturers who must be vigilant in testing. The tainted cinnamon was obtained from Austrofood, also located in Ecuador. The FDA has no authority over this producer because they do not ship their product directly to the U.S.

If you believe that you or your child may have been exposed to lead, you should see a doctor for testing. The cost of blood lead testing for children enrolled in Medicaid is covered by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services. In addition, there is treatment available for lead poisoning.

Fun Facts About Your Bacteria in Your Gut

February 11, 2024 – By Sally Hoger

There has been tremendous interest and research in the study of gut flora along with endless advertisements for supplements purported to correct our gut bacteria to improve health. Here is a summary of what we know. Keep in mind: what we know is FAR less than what we do NOT know on this topic.

1. First: what is gut, or bowel, flora? It is the collection of microbes, mostly bacteria, that live in your small and large intestine.  Each person has about 100 trillion microbes representing as many as 5,000 different species and weighing approximately 2 kilograms.
2. We know everyone’s gut flora is not the same and is influenced by:
3. Geography: The gut microbiome of Americans and most other Westernized, industrialized populations is less diverse and dominated by different bacterial species than that of people from rural, less developed populations. A general shift away from natural environments with little exposure to soil, animals, and other environmental microbes seems to be impacting the gut microbiome in potentially detrimental ways.
4. Diet: Processed foods can damage the lining of the intestine causing inflammation and altering flora while high fiber foods promote fermentation, which leads to more diverse gut flora. Greater diversity is also promoted by eating a varied diet consisting of mostly plant-based foods.
5. antibiotic use: Antibiotic therapy alters the patterns of gut microbiota and when given early in life (infancy and childhood) may shift the bacterial profile towards one that promotes obesity, metabolic abnormalities and/or autoimmune diseases. Antibiotic use in adults can wipe out and markedly change gut flora.
6. We know gut flora is different in obese people compared to those with normal weight and in people with diabetes, but we are not yet sure what this means.
7. Probiotics – do they work?

Probiotics are certain bacteria that can be consumed to hep modify gut flora. They are available as pills or in fermented foods such as active-culture yogurt, kefir, kimchee, kumbucha and sauerkraut. There is convincing evidence that the regular consumption of these foods increases diversity of gut flora. The pill form is suspicious because the bacteria do not survive well in dry conditions and the manufacturers are not regulated by the FDA so do not have to show they have any effect.

Artificial Sweeteners – Are they safe to consume?

February 4, 2024 – By Sally Hoger

Any nutritionist and most people agree consuming too much refined sugar has adverse effects on health including contributing to obesity and diabetes and taking the place of healthier foods. The average American consumes way too much sugar, much of from soft drinks and processed foods. People trying to consume less sugar or trying to lose weight naturally turn to artificial sweeteners to reduce daily calorie intake.

Lately, you may have heard that there may be safety issues associated with these products. This is a question that is difficult to answer definitively because there are conflicting results from research done on safety of sweeteners.

First: What are the available sweeteners?

• The blue packets are aspartame, the most popular brand name being Equal. Aspartame is about 200X sweeter than sugar.
• The pink packets are saccharin, otherwise known as Sweet N Low. Saccharin is about 300X sweeter than sugar.
• The yellow packets are sucralose, also known as Splenda. Sucralose is 600-800X sweeter than sugar.

Second: What are the potential problems with artificial sweeteners?

The Center for Science in the Public Interest is a nonprofit, non-government group that evaluates food safety, nutrition, and food access. Here is their statement regarding artificial sweeteners:

“One thing seems clear: you’re better off drinking beverages with sugar substitutes than you are consuming sugary drinks, which contribute to weight gain and are linked to a higher risk of heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and obesity, not to mention tooth decay. That said, try to avoid aspartame, which tops our list of risky artificial sweeteners and appears in such popular beverages as Diet Coke, Diet Pepsi, and Diet Dr. Pepper.”  

Aspartame is associated with liver cancers and leukemias, but moderate amounts need to be consumed.

There is some evidence that saccharin is associated with bladder cancer, but only at high doses.

Sucralose has been associated with changes in gut flora which could affect blood sugar, inflammation, body weight and absorption of drugs and nutrients. However, the evidence is not yet conclusive.

The FDA still considers all three safe to consume at moderate levels. Moderate levels may be one diet soda daily or about 200 – 300 mg per day.

Third: What are better sugar substitutes?

So far, stevia, monk fruit and erythritol have not shown any adverse health effects.

Rocky Mountain Physical Therapy – Student Physical Therapist

January 31, 2024

Esther Choe

I was born and raised in Seattle, WA and currently working towards a doctorate in Physical Therapy from the University of St. Augustine in Austin, TX. I will be graduating in April 2024 and hoping to specialize in orthopedics/sport physical therapy after graduation. Osteoarthritis Osteoarthritis (OA) is a degenerative joint disease. This occurs over time where the tissues, most likely cartilage, in between two bones break down and deteriorate in size over time. Signs and symptoms of OA are usually joint pain after rest or stiffness in a joint that develops in a short period of time. OA is seen most often in hands, knees, hips, and spine, but can be present in any joint. Management and Treatment Once OA is diagnosed what should be done? Although OA is non-reversible, treatment can reduce pain. Physical therapy and/or occupational therapy has been shown to help decrease pain in a conservative approach, and strengthening and stabilizing muscles around the joint will increase flexibility and reduce pain. Aside from PT, it is important to keep moving and remain active. If walking on pavement is too difficult depending on the location of the joint affected, try aquatic therapy to decrease pressure on the joint. After trying conservative treatment for AT LEAST 4-6 weeks as this is the time it will take for muscles to make physiological change, and treatment does not work, then surgery or injections should be considered. Exercise Examples: Hip OA: – Walking – Step Ups – Hip 3-way – Squats Knee OA: – Walking – Squats – LAQ – Hamstring curls Hand OA: – Putty – Rubber Band finger extension – Finger tip touch, Knuckle Bend

Osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis (OA) is a degenerative joint disease. This occurs over time where the tissues, most likely cartilage, in between two bones break down and deteriorate in size over time. Signs and symptoms of OA are usually joint pain after rest or stiffness in a joint that develops in a short period of time. OA is seen most often in hands, knees, hips, and spine, but can be present in any joint.

Management and Treatment

Once OA is diagnosed what should be done? Although OA is non-reversible, treatment can reduce pain. Physical therapy and/or occupational therapy has been shown to help decrease pain in a conservative approach, and strengthening and stabilizing muscles around the joint will increase flexibility and reduce pain. Aside from PT, it is important to keep moving and remain active. If walking on pavement is too difficult depending on the location of the joint affected, try aquatic therapy to decrease pressure on the joint. After trying conservative treatment for AT LEAST 4-6 weeks as this is the time it will take for muscles to make physiological change, and treatment does not work, then surgery or injections should be considered.

Exercise Examples:

Hip OA:

• Walking
• Step Ups
• Hip 3-way
• Squats

Knee OA:

• Walking
• Squats
• LAQ
• Hamstring curls

Hand OA

• Putty
• Rubber Band finger extension
• Finger tip touch, Knuckle Bend

Beware of  Tianeptine – Gas Station Heroin

January 28, 2024 by Sally Hoger

Tianeptine is an antidepressant that is available over-the-counter and is often sold in convenience stores and smoke shops and online for use as a recreational drug. The compound produces euphoria similar to opiates. This drug is not approved as a medical treatment in the United States but is available at lower doses in some countries to treat anxiety and depressive episodes. It is also addictive. Yet, the drug is available as an unregulated supplement in all but nine states, including New Mexico.

Tianeptine is also known as Zaza, Tianna, Neptune’s Fix or Gas Station Heroin. Recently we have seen an increase in adverse effects such as hallucinations, vomiting and loss of motor control and seizures and there have been some deaths associated with the drug. The reason for bad reactions to the drug is because often the drug is mixed with synthetic cannabinoids or other compounds. In addition, hospitals and clinics have reported a surge in patients suffering from tianeptine withdrawal.

The FDA has warned about adverse effects of the drug since at least 2018. With the current increase in hospitalizations, the FDA issued another warning in November 2023. However, tianeptine is not currently controlled under The Controlled Substances Act. In my opinion, this is a serious shortcoming in our drug approval process and may stem from lack of funding and personnel at the FDA. Currently, banning the substance must take place at the state level and even then, it may be obtainable online.

January 21, 2024

Stop wasting your money on Multivitamins!

By Sally Hoger

Many people take multivitamins hoping they will provide that nutrient boost that will keep them healthy and provide what may not obtained from a less-than-perfect dies. In 2021, people in the US spent an estimated almost $50 billion on dietary supplements and the dietary supplement industry spent about $900 million on marketing.

Supplements do have a very important role in diet therapy for individuals that have a vitamin or mineral deficiency such as scurvy caused by lack of Vitamin C or rickets, caused by Vitamin D deficiency. But we rarely see such deficiencies in the United States.

A large body of evidence indicates multivitamin pills have no benefit whatsoever to most Americans.

The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force, The American Heart Association and other National Medical Associations worldwide now recommend NOT taking a multivitamin pill.

Some of the reasons and research are as follows:

Our population has access to a quality diet with a variety of nutritious foods. Vitamins and minerals are only needed in very small amounts and many foods such as cereals and dairy products are fortified with needed nutrients.  The vitamins and minerals consumed in food are absorbed much more readily by the body than those taken in pill form.

There is no evidence to support supplementing with an excess of vitamins and minerals such as taking high doses of Vitamin C for colds. In fact, too much Vitamin C can cause diarrhea. Excess water-soluble vitamins such as Vitamin C and the B-complex vitamins are typically not stored in the body and excess leaves in the urine. Americans have been noted to have very expensive urine.

Some vitamins such as Vitamin E and Beta-carotene are toxic at elevated levels because they are fat soluble and build up in fatty tissues instead of being excreted right away like Vitamins C and most B Vitamins. Taking too much Vitamin A over time causes skin and hair problems followed by liver damage. Too much Vitamin A can also cause birth defects.

Additionally, an editorial published this year in The Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA) by scientists conducting research at Northwestern University stated that taking multivitamins have no effect on the prevention of heart disease, cancer, or mental decline.

More information can be found here:

https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/wellness-and-prevention/is-there-really-any-benefit-to-multivitamins

There are circumstances where supplements are needed, so heed your doctor’s advice if you are prescribed a supplement but ignore much of what you may come across online.

Examples of necessary supplements are:

• It is recommended that all pregnant women take folic acid to prevent neural tube deficiencies. This is one situation where it is better to get the nutrient from a pill rather than from food.
•  People with certain anemias may need to take iron, folic acid and Vitamin B12 to help maintain healthy red blood cells
• Osteoporosis patients need calcium and Vitamin D supplements.
• Vegetarians may suffer from a Vitamin B12 deficiency and require a supplement.

Conclusion

If you want to feel more energized, have better skin and maintain a healthy weight, consider eating a few servings of fruits and vegetables each day and skip a serving of chips or that sugary soft drink.

January 18, 2024

Raton Regional Aquatics Center Offers Classes

The Raton Regional Aquatic Center located at 100 Memorial Lane offers additional classes to its schedule.

Wednesday – Senior Stretching with Elizabeth Ortega – 10:30 am- 11:30 am, $7 (nonmembers) $3 (membership)

Tuesday & Thursday – Aqua Yoga with Loran Nava – 10:30 am -11:30 am, $10 drop in

Tuesday & Thursday – Water Aerobic with Nikki – 5:30 pm- 6:30 pm, $80, 8-week class starting on January 30th.

January 14, 2024

Life Expectancy in New Mexico

by Sally Hoger

From CDC 2021

Life expectancy is one way to determine the overall health of the population within a state. In The U.S., people, on average, live the longest if they reside on the west coast or the New England states. New Mexico is in the lowest category of life expectancy. Our life expectancy of 74.5 years is longer than the deep south states, but still lower than most of the nation.

To determine causes for a low life expectancy, I first looked at the leading causes of death in New Mexico.

Leading Causes of Death in NM

1. Heart Disease
2. Cancer
3. COVID-19
4. Accidents
5. Chronic Lower Respiratory Diseases

The leading Causes of death in New Mexico are the SAME as deaths in the United States.  What is very different about New Mexico is our rates of heart disease and cancer are lower than the national average.  This may sound like a good thing, but the reason these rates are lower is because our rates of Covid deaths and deaths by unintentional injuries (car crashes, falls, fires, and drowning for example) are much higher than the national average. In fact, New Mexico rates are the second highest in the nation, after West Virginia. We have 101 unintentional injuries per 100,000 people compared to the national average of 65 out of 100,000. New Mexico deaths from Covid are also much higher than average (136 compared to 104).

That explains a lot, but there are two other factors that contribute to our lower life expectancy, and they are concerning because they both have to do with substance abuse. New Mexico’s drug overdose rate has been one of the highest in the nation for the last two decades. We rank number five in overdose deaths. In addition, we have more deaths from chronic liver disease and cirrhosis than any other state in the U.S. These deaths are primarily attributed to alcohol dependence and abuse.

I did come across one bright spot in mortality statistics for the state. Our rate of infant mortality is lower than most states. Infant mortality rate is another measure of general health status but also a measure of the quality of care received, so we are doing something right with maternal and infant care.

Statistics are from the Centers for Disease Control.

January 7, 2024

Pinwheel Healing Centers Offers a Variety of Health and Well-Being Services

In response to a growing awareness of the devasting effects of drug and alcohol addiction and abuse, several agencies have opened their doors in Raton in the past two years to combat this escalating problem in Colfax County. There are five Pinwheel locations throughout New Mexico; Raton, Taos, Roswell, Albuquerque, and Rio Rancho. The Raton location opened its doors at the Hospital Drive location two years ago to address the severe need in Raton. According to the New Mexico Department of Health 2022 Epidemiology Report, Colfax County ranks in the top 10 out of 14 critical areas of health concerns.

Pinwheel, one of the latest to begin services in Raton, is a non-profit organization that provides intensive outpatient treatment, medically assisted treatment, individual therapy, and medication management, comprehensive community support services, and sex offender treatment. Realizing that many of their clients’ lives had been completely disrupted and that they had other personal care needs, the staff at Pinwheel, located at 186 Hospital Drive, have gone the extra mile to provide food, showers, clothing, personal care products, and laundry service.

Pinwheel clients, both adults and adolescents, can be referred to Pinwheel by the local courts, a medical professional, or come as a walk-in, to receive appropriate clinically led social support services that can promote better socialization and education along with independent living tutoring, and vocational guidance. One area often overlooked by substance abuse programs is the basic human need for human interaction, and the desire to enjoy life or engage in recreational activities. Pinwheel fills that social need by providing gardening space, taking clients fishing at Lake Maloya, going for walks, visiting parks, and scheduling other indoor and outdoor activities, thereby alleviating the extreme isolation that sometimes accompanies addiction. In addition, many times clients have lost their driver’s license or their car, and since Raton doesn’t have public transportation available, the support staff at Pinwheel in Raton provides transportation to their clients for grocery shopping, getting to doctor’s appointments, or even for recreational opportunities.

Pinwheel receives referrals from the local courts and the medical community and will take walk-ins. They recently held a luncheon for several of the physicians and health care professionals, the Raton District Attorney’s Office personnel, the Magistrate Court Judge Amy Hronich and District 8 Court Judge Steven Romero, and others in order to provide information about their services. They received $1,000 each year for the past two years from the Raton Rotary Club to help prepare and maintain their community garden, which is tended to by the Pinwheel clients and staff.

The staff at Pinwheel consists of Jolyn Romero with Comprehensive Community Support Services Coordinator, Master in Social Work, Community Support Worker and Certified Peer Support Worker ; Sandy Sandoval, Community Support Services Coordinator and Certified Peer Support Worker; Benito Pardien Community Service Worker; Amanda Segura Administrative Assistant, Intake Coordinator, and Community Service Worker. The staff has many hours of education and experience in the mental health and behavioral health fields as well as some with their own years of substance abuse who have been in recovery for several years.

Romero has an extensive history of working in Colfax County for various organizations, some of which closed due to lack of funding, the Boys School, Tri-County, Soy, Agave, and Noeisis Integrative Health. Prior to coming to work for Pinwheel, Romero also worked for Krossroads, another organization in Raton dedicated to providing resources for those recovering from drug or alcohol addiction.

According to Romero, the staff are working on getting the Raton location stocked and ready to provide a Peer Drop-in Center. The center already has a shower and a washing machine for peer use as well as some clothing and food products available. But they hope to be fully stocked for a weekly peer drop-in service.

Contact Pinwheel at (505) 636-6100.

December 30, 2023

Shrinking Medical Services at Miners’ Colfax Medical Center

By Sally Hoger

Miner’s Colfax Medical Center (MCMC) is a small hospital that provides both inpatient and outpatient (clinic) care to a large geographic area.  You may have heard that MCMC has recently lost some services and wondered what kind of care is available here in Raton and what kinds of care will require you to travel – or be transported to – other areas such as Albuquerque or Pueblo. What about getting an appointment at the clinic? Are there specialists available? Can anyone get an appointment? How long does it take to see the doctor? What if I need care right away? What if I do not have medical insurance?

I spoke to a representative of MCMC and will try to answer these questions but want to hear about your experiences as well. Your opinion can be shared by sending an email to editor@theratonian.com to be posted on the Letter to the Editor page of The Ratonian website.

Inpatient care at MCMC

Let’s start with inpatient care. MCMC no longer provides an Intensive care unit (ICU). That means anyone requiring that level of care will be stabilized and transported to another facility. It should be noted that MCMC still has ICU-level nurses who can care for patients as they await transport, which is sometimes delayed due to weather or administrative hurdles.

The hospital has also lost specialized oncology and cardiology care. Why? Because the specialists we had in those areas retired. This is an ongoing and serious problem in rural areas.

In 2023, 65% of rural areas had a shortage of primary care physicians, according to a report published by the Health Resources and Services Administration. For specialists it’s even worse. Younger specialists are not relocating to rural areas so more than half of rural specialists are over the age of 50.

There has long been an effort to attract new physicians to rural areas by offsetting some of the cost of medical education, but currently only about 20% of medical schools have such programs in effect.

The hospital will help cancer, heart and other patients needing specialized inpatient care determine the best facility in other areas to receive care.

Outpatient care – getting treatment at MCMC clinics.

The key to getting outpatient care is becoming an established patient. No clinic in Raton, including MCMC accepts walk-in patients. To become an established patient, an information packet must be completed. You can pick up a packet or the hospital will mail you one.

Once you are established as a patient, you can call for an appointment. For routine care such as colds, vaccines, sick kids, high blood pressure, diabetes management you may get an appointment the same day. The scheduler uses a triage over the phone method to determine if you can be seen right away.

 If you need more specialized care like heart, lung, kidney, or liver problems or require surgery, it will take longer to get an appointment because the clinics rely on specialists who rotate through about once a week. And, sadly, there are some conditions that the clinics are not equipped to treat such as some cancers and advanced liver or kidney disease, orthopedics, some dermatology and auto-immune disorders.

OB-GYN and pregnancy

MCMC provides care for pregnant women from first detection of pregnancy through birth. In 2020, MCMC became part of the ROAM network. ROAM – Rural Obstetrics Access and Maternal Services – is federal money targeted to improve care for pregnant women by providing clinics, equipment, education, and telemedicine, if needed. One of the aims of this program is to keep women from having to drive long distances to get care.

What about insurance and payment?

The hospital turns away no one in need of care, regardless of the ability to pay. If you have insurance, the type of insurance may determine where you get referred to if MCMC can’t treat you.

The hospital helps anyone eligible for Medicaid to get signed up for this benefit.

If you do not have health insurance, the hospital will help you access certain programs that may provide assistance. If you do not have insurance but are not in the low-income bracket, the hospital or clinic will expect some payment and payment plans are available. The clinics do use a sliding scale to determine cost to patients based on income level.

December 21, 2023

Colfax County Ranks at Top for Overdose Deaths, Suicides, and Drug-Related Emergency in the State of New Mexico.

According to the 2022 Epidemiology profile provided by the New Mexico Health Department, Colfax County ranks in the top ten in our state for overdoses, deaths from overdose, suicides, alcohol-related deaths, and drug and alcohol-related emergency room visits. All of these result in a huge economic and social drain on our community. Drug dealing, home and business break-ins, and a drain on the emergency room services from repeat over-dose treatments are financially costly for the community, and the absence from jobs, court appearances and sentencing are a huge strain on families as well.

These statistics in Colfax County, with Raton leading the way, have led to a rise in available resources for those who seek help on their own and for those who are court-ordered. One of the most recent facilities to open in Raton, Rio Grande ATP, located at 130 S. 3rd Street in Raton, is an adult intensive outpatient substance abuse program that offers assessment/pre-treatment, counseling services and education along with treatment approaches for anger management, life skills, random drug testing, and cognitive behavioral therapy. In a recent interview with John Sundeen, Clinical Director of the Raton location, which was attended remotely by Lawrence Medina, Executive Director for Rio Grande Alcoholism Treatment Program and Director of Operations for Golden Willow Counseling, Medina discussed the growing need for the services provided by Rio Grande to our community. Part of the difficulty in Raton has been the denial that there is a problem, and the NIMBY “Not in My Back Yard” effect. Not only is the problem ignored, but if it does get community attention, it is in the form of “we don’t want that in our neighborhood.” And, although Colfax County ranks in the top ten in some of the most serious categories, some of our city leaders have expressed the belief that we don’t need, and don’t have the resources, for a treatment center, half-way house, or other community-based treatment facility.

Fortunately, there is increased funding being provided to communities to prevent and treat mental and behavioral health disorders and substance abuse. According to the New Mexico Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), there is a total of $61,769,901.00 in discretionary and non-discretionary funding dedicated to substance abuse prevention and treatment in the State of New Mexico. Individual totals of funding can be viewed at https://www.samhsa.gov/grants-awards-by-state/NM/2023

View the entire New Mexico Department of Health Epidemiology report in pdf format.

Rio Grande ATP, Inc. is a major employer in the health field in Raton. John Sundeen, LPCC, is the Clinical Director of Rio Grande ATP who oversees clinical operations for all locations (Raton, Taos and Las Vegas), Billie Jo Bacca is the in-house counselor who conducts substance use disorders individual and group counseling. Lisa Ortega is the Case Manager  and serves as a liaison with the courts and our court referred clients, and conducts intakes. Angel Alvarez is the Surveillance Officer who serves as a liaison with the courts and assists with Intensive Outpatient groups. Rio Grande, ATP also see clients referred from drug and Adult Drug Court who can benefit from substance use disorders treatment as an alternative to traditional sanctions. They also provide services to self-referred individuals who would like assistance with substance abuse issues. Medication assisted treatment is provided via telehealth for those individuals presenting with Opioid/Opiate dependency issues.

As the drug and alcohol misuse continues to grow in our community, the devastating effects will continue to grow as well. In coming weeks, The Ratonian will provide information about other facilities, Krossroads, Pinwheel, and Team Builders that are dedicated to providing help and resources to those caught in the trap of addiction.

Contact Rio Grande, ATP in Raton at (575) 707-0262.

November 19, 2023

Do you Need the Updated COVID Vaccine?

By Sally Hoger

A new COVID vaccine was made available in October. The CDC reported that uptake of the new COVID vaccine has been low while deaths and hospitalizations have risen sharply. As of November 4, 2023, 14% of Americans received the new COVID vaccine while 35% of adults received the flu shot. The COVID vaccination rate in New Mexico was somewhat higher than the national rate with 22% of our population vaccinated.

Currently, about 16,000 people are hospitalized with COVID each week. Those at highest risk for hospitalization and death are people over the age of 75 and Black and Native Americans.

Here are some reasons for failure to obtain the latest COVID vaccine.

1. The belief that one is already immune. There is some truth to this for younger folks. I will explain below.
2. The belief that COVID is now a mild disease. Once again, may be true for some, but older people are getting sicker and dying more. Cases are expected to increase during the winter months along with other respiratory diseases such as influenza and now the respiratory syncytial virus (RSV).
3. Misconceptions (can also use the word conceptions or beliefs here) developed during the initial phases of the pandemic about the way the federal and state government managed prevention of COVID. The aim of this article is to provide factual data related to the importance of getting the updated vaccine.
4. Lack of availability of the vaccine. Here in Raton, the vaccine is currently not available. Some suggestions are at the end of the article.
5. The cost of the vaccine. The Federal government is no longer subsidizing the cost of the vaccine, but all health insurance plans and Medicare and Medicaid cover the cost. However, there are widespread reports of pharmacies cancelling appointments, stating that they do not take a certain insurance plan or having supply issues. If you do not have medical insurance or Medicaid/Medicare, prices may exceed $100.

What is different about this year’s vaccine?

The COVID virus changes rapidly. That means as soon as it mutates, our immune systems can’t effectively eliminate the virus or attack it to lessen symptoms. The new vaccine, unlike last year’s version, protects against the most dominant strain circulating now, called XBB1.5, as well as what is expected to be the next subvariant to arise, EG1.5. Not only that, but the vaccine will stimulate immunity to older variants that has waned since your last vaccine or COVID illness. Therefore, the new vaccine is not a booster, like some previous versions of the vaccine.

Don’t I have immunity if I have had previous vaccines or got COVID?

Yes, you have some immunity to the older variants but not to the new strains. If you are older or immunocompromised, it is likely your immunity has waned significantly.

When and where can I get the new COVID vaccine?

There is no reason to delay vaccination since we are nearing the winter months. Another consideration is if you can avoid becoming infected, you will not expose vulnerable people to the virus.

The updated COVID vaccine is available at Safeway in Trinidad and are available sporadically at Walmart in Trinidad.  Walgreens in Las Vegas and Walmart in Taos also have vaccines available.

CDC data come from Respiratory Viruses Vaccination Trends.

https://www.cdc.gov/respiratory-viruses/data-research/dashboard/vaccination-trends-adults.html

New Mexico data is from the CDC COVID Data Tracker

https://COVID.cdc.gov/COVID-data-tracker/#vaccinations_vacc-people-booster-percent-pop5

Few Americans Have Gotten the New COVID Shots, C.D.C. Finds

https://www.nytimes.com/2023/10/27/health/COVID-vaccination-rates.html

New COVID Vaccine Rollout Is Slowed by Insurance and Supply Snags

https://www.nytimes.com/2023/09/22/well/COVID-vaccine-booster-insurance.html

·  Influenza and Up-to-Date COVID-19 Vaccination Coverage Among Health Care Personnel

Flu vaccination coverage was 81% among health care personnel (HCP) at acute care hospitals and 47% among HCP at nursing homes during the 2022-23 respiratory virus season. Up-to-date COVID-19 vaccination coverage was lower than flu with 17% COVID-19 vaccination coverage at acute care hospitals and 23% among those at nursing homes.

MMWR Nov. 10

Posted November 12, 2023

Students in Health Fields Provide Care at Rocky Mountain Physical Therapy

For the past several years, Raton has benefited from a student program at Rocky Mountain Physical Therapy that provides students in various health fields with clinical experience required as part of their education.  The students at RMTP usually work on a 12-week rotation that provides them with the rural health experience that they may not be able to receive at the university where they are enrolled.

The program started when Ted Kamp called various universities to inquire about providing students with clinical experience in the physical therapy field. The program has been attractive to many universities and colleges because of the experience in a rural setting. Kamp explained that there have been over 100 students who have participated in the rotations, many of whom have chosen to go into rural health care. He receives students from a mostly regional area; Colorado, Texas, Kansas, and Arizona, but has had students from other areas of the country as well.

Today’s students are Ashley Van Winkle, DPT (Doctor of Physical Therapy), and Esther Choe. Van Winkle, who has a Bachelor of Science degree in Health & Exercise Science from from Regis University is currently enrolled in University of St. Augustine in Austin, Texas, and is in her second 12-week rotation at RMPT. Choe, who has a Bachelor of Art degree in Kinesiology, the study of movement with a physical therapy emphasis from Whittier College in California, is in her first rotation.

Posted November 12, 2023

Increased Number of Babies Born with Syphilis

by Sally A. Hoger, Contributor

Syphilis reached epidemic levels in the United States in the 1940’s but the introduction of antimicrobial agents has kept case levels low. However, in the last few years, we have seen case levels rise close to the levels seen in 1950 along with an increase of syphilis in babies. The number of newborns with syphilis in the United States surged more than 10-fold in the last decade, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported this week. The agency said 3,761 cases were recorded in 2022, the highest in over 30 years, up from 334 cases in 2012.

In New Mexico the situation is worse than other areas of the United States. New Mexico has the 2^nd highest rate of both syphilis disease and congenital syphilis (transmitted by women to babies while giving birth) in the nation. In 2021, the US congenital syphilis rate was 77.9 cases per 100,000 live births (218% increase from 2017). In 2021, the NM congenital syphilis rate was 205.7 per

100,000 live births (4,300% increase from 2017) Last year, there were 76 reported cases of congenital syphilis in New Mexico and eight of the babies died.  If the child survives, the disease can also confer birth defects such as blindness, deafness, and deformed bones. These findings have prompted the New Mexico Department of Health to issue a Public Health Order last month advising that all pregnant women be tested for syphilis at the first prenatal exam, during the third trimester and when giving birth. Resources for prenatal care in Raton are limited, so most women travel to nearby cities for care. San Rafael Hospital in Trinidad routinely screens all pregnant women for syphilis, but this facility only provides care during the first trimester. Desert Rose Women’s Resource Center in Santa Fe also screens patients for syphilis, but they too are unlikely to see all patients throughout the pregnancy. Therefore, it is difficult to determine if the state public health advisory regarding testing for syphilis three times during pregnancy is being met. If you, or a friend or family member is pregnant, please know that this simple laboratory test could save the life of the baby or prevent serious complications.

October 25, 2023

Raton High School Hosted Community Blood Drive

Raton High School hosted a community blood drive on Wednesday, October 25, 2023 from 10:00 AM until 3:00 PM in the high school gymnasium. To schedule a donation, call (877) 258-4825 or visit www.vitalant.org

Photos by Frank Mahannah

August 17, 2023

Local Swimmer Reaches 900 Mile Milestone

Reprinted with permission from Raton Regional Aquatic Center

Congratulations to Sue Wortman! Sue completed her 900th mile of lap swimming here at Raton Regional Aquatic Center, on Thursday August 17, 2023. Sue has been a member of Raton Regional Aquatic Center since 2011. She began her 900 mile journey by swimming 3x a week. When Sue retired from Raton Public Schools after a 34 year career as an elementary school teacher she started swimming 4-5 times a week. Sue took of a year due to an injury and came back healthy and stronger. Sue has been a daily visitor to our facility for the past 12 years.
Congratulations Sue on your journey to a healthier life.

Our Health

Each of the following health-related articles is provided by Rocky Mountain Physical Therapy.

Neuropathy

By: Ashley Van Winkle

I am from Colorado Springs and am getting my doctorate in Physical Therapy from University of St. Augustine in Austin, TX. I love karaoke, weightlifting, anything Christmas, and cooking. I will be graduating in December 2023 and am looking forward to going to Disney World to celebrate.

Peripheral Neuropathy

Neuropathy is nerve damage that is most associated with diabetes but can also occur from traumatic events such as injuries, alcoholism, vitamin imbalances (Vit B12 deficiency), infections, chemotherapy drugs, or vascular/blood issues which decrease oxygen supply to your feet and hands.

Symptoms can include pin-and-needles sensation, weakness, numbness, tingling, or burning which is most felt in the feet or hands. Other possible side effects are poor balance and/or slow reflexes.

Management and Treatment

Physical therapy can help in adapting and managing your nervous system changes that you are experiencing. This can include working on balance, preventing falls, strengthening, dry needling/acupuncture electrical nerve stimulation (TENS), and reflex training.

Depending on the severity of your symptoms, you may want to talk to your doctor about medications for neuropathy as that can be beneficial.

Natural options to help the nerves regenerate and recover include eating a balanced diet, daily exercise, taking supplements and vitamins, and try to obtain and maintain a healthy weight.

This can feel very overwhelming looking at a list of ‘to do’s”. Start with ababy step. Try walking for 20-30 minutes after work, or having one less soda a day, or eating only half a bag a chips while binging a show (we’re all guilty of that!) Don’t try to change too many things at once, otherwise it is easier to fall back into our old habits. Take it one step at a time.

Diabetic Neuropathy

Diabetic Neuropathy affects 60-70% of the U.S population. Symptoms can be mild to severe, and symptoms are most felt in feet and hands: but it can also affect your trunk and/or pelvis. This means that you can experience weakness of muscles including the pelvic floor which can lead to urinary stress or incontinence.

*If you are experiencing these symptoms, and have not been diagnosed, please contact your doctor.