Tips for Leading a Heart-Healthy Lifestyle

For low-income Collier County residents who are working but uninsured, access to the medications they need is not as easy as going to a regular chain pharmacy to pick them up. Thats where the Neighborhood Health Clinics expanded non-narcotic medication room comes in, giving patients managing chronic conditions including hypertension and diabetes timely access to medications at no cost. The 1,850-square-foot medication room, located at the clinic on Goodlette-Frank Road near Central Avenue, was built at a cost of $500,000 and is named for the late Stacy Forman, a Naples philanthropist who donated funding for the expansion.Keith Maples, CEO of Neighborhood Health Clinic, said the expanded medications facility enhances the clinics ability to serve patients faster and more efficiently. On a typical day, a patient can walk in and when they walk out, theyre walking out with thousands of dollars worth of medication that, if it were outside of the Clinic, they would not be able to fill those prescriptions because it would be outside of what they could afford, Maples said. He said the expanded space, equipped with updated technology and increased storage capacity, allows for a larger inventory of non-narcotic medications that enables the Clinic to fill prescriptions immediately to minimize delays in treatment. In 2024, the Clinic distributed $6.5 million in retail value of medications thanks to partnerships with Americares, Direct Relief, Dispensary of Hope and other pharmaceutical companies. The expansion allows us to work even more with our pharmaceutical partners to basically procure all of the medications necessary for our patients, Maples said. He said that many patients arriving at the Clinic for the first time have not previously received medical care for the condition needing treatment and may have vastly elevated blood pressure or blood sugar levels, for example.  When they walk through the doors, theyre at such a heightened level that were trying to bring it back to a controlled number to where its manageable for them, Maples said. If their A1Cs are through the roof, their [blood] sugars are through the roof, were trying to get them back to an established number that helps them feel better. Well never cure them of all those illnesses, but well maintain that health for them, so they feel better and have a better quality of life.Clinic grows to meet patient demand The nonprofit Neighborhood Health Clinic was established in 1999 by Dr. Bill and Nancy Lascheid to provide medical care to low-income, working but uninsured Collier County adults. Their daughter, Leslie Lascheid, now serves as president of the organization. In 2024 the clinic saw more than 12,000 patient visits and delivered more than 30,000 patient procedures, Maples said, with all medications, primary care, specialty care, surgeries and outpatient procedures provided free of charge to patients.All funding is through philanthropy, as the Clinic does not receive any city, county, state or federal funding including Medicaid or Medicare. Over the years the clinic has expanded as the patient load has increased. The original 11,000-square-foot facility more than doubled in size with the completion of the Armstrong Medical Specialties Building in 2021, which expanded the campus to 23,000 square feet.  The addition of the Van Domelen Education and Wellness Building, also in 2021, took the total to its current 32,000 square feet, and when the Bill and Candy Raveis Pathology Building is completed this summer, the total campus will be at 43,000 square feet, according to Marcie Berland, the Clinics director of development. Maples said the Clinic has expanded strategically over the years to meet the medical needs of patients many of whom work in hospitality, service or construction industries in Collier County and the growing volume of patient visits. When weve expanded, we didnt do it just to do it, he said. We based it on what were the patient needs and what do we need in-house on a daily basis to deliver the care, providing the opportunity for a patient to walk in the door, get all the care they need and not have to go to another location somewhere else, or come for another appointment. Because when our patients miss days of work, thats food on the table and the roof over their heads. Its not like if I call in sick: I get a sick day and still get paid.  He said the campus expansions allow most procedures including lab work to be done in-house, creating opportunities for sustainable, uninterrupted patient care. When that patient walks through the doors, I never want them to wonder where theyre going to get their care or how theyre getting to their next appointment, Maples said. Many of our patients get rides here, or they walk or ride their bikes, because very few own cars that they can drive in.  And while the Clinic does have a full-time paid staff of 14 and five part-time staff, no medical professionals are paid to deliver care, Maples said. More than 250 physicians, 50 dentists, 100 nurses and 300 non-medical personnel deliver care and provide patient education on a volunteer basis. 

Beyond the Surface: Naples Cancer Advisors Spotlight Melanoma During Awareness MonthMay 1, 20256 Min ReadBy Jillian Hunt, CNP Executive Director of Clinical Operations at Naples Cancer AdvisorsMay is Melanoma Awareness Month, and in sun-drenched Collier and Lee Counties, its more than a calendar observance. Its a call to action. The sunny environment increases exposure to ultraviolet (UV) rays, which are a significant risk factor for skin cancer, including melanoma. Understanding the risks and adopting preventive measures can help residents enjoy the sun safely while minimizing their skin cancer risk.At NCA, we specialize in delivering second opinions and expert oncology guidance at no cost to patients. Our team, including nationally recognized oncologist Dr. Philip Leming, believes that no one should face a cancer diagnosis alone. This month, we want to shine a light on reshaping melanoma prevention, detection, and awarenessso you can stay protected and proactive.Prevention: A Daily Practice, Not Just a Summer ChecklistMost people know the basics: use sunscreen, avoid tanning beds, cover up when outside. But melanoma doesnt just show up where the sun shines. It can develop under your fingernails, between your toes, even on your scalp or eyes. We educate patients to look everywhere, not just the obvious spots.One powerful (and often overlooked) fact: a single blistering sunburn in childhood doubles your lifetime risk of melanoma. Thats why prevention is a family affair. We urge parents to build sun safety habits early and keep them consistent all year.Detection: A Watchful Eye is The Best ToolThe front line of defense against skin cancer is early detection. Identifying skin changes especially changes in moles is the easiest way to catch skin cancer earlier.What is a mole?A mole is a benign (non-cancerous) growth on the skin that develops when melanocytes, the cells responsible for producing pigment, cluster together instead of being evenly distributed. Moles can be present from birth or develop later in life.ABCDEs of Moles and Melanoma Detection Asymmetry: One half of the mole doesnt match the other. Border irregularity: The edges of the mole are uneven, ragged, or notched. Color variation: The mole has multiple shades of brown, black, or other colors like red, white, or blue. Diameter: The mole is larger than 6 millimeters (about the size of a pencil eraser). Evolving: The mole has changed in size, shape, or color, or has new symptoms like itching, bleeding, or crusting.The ABCDEs are a helpful tool for self-examination and can prompt individuals to seek professional medical advice if any of these signs are present.Dermatologists remain the front line in detection and diagnosis. However, emerging technologies are offering exciting backup. Artificial intelligence skin scanners and total body imaging are improving the speed and accuracy of diagnosis.Whether its through advanced tools or a trained eye, one truth remains: catching melanoma early saves lives.The NCA Difference: Compassionate, Cost-Free Cancer GuidanceNaples Cancer Advisors was founded to be a bridge for patients who feel lost, overwhelmed, or unsure where to turn after a cancer diagnosis. We offer a second set of expert eyes, help explain treatment options, connect people to top-tier providers, and support them throughout their journey.Melanoma may be aggressive, but its also highly preventable and treatable when caught early. This May, we urge everyone in our community to schedule a skin check, learn your ABCDEs (Asymmetry, Border, Color, Diameter, Evolving), and take sun safety seriously.And if you ever need clarity or support after a diagnosis, Naples Cancer Advisors is herefree, local, and fully focused on you.Jillian Hunt, CNP BioJillian has been caring for cancer patients since 2004. In that time, she has set the benchmark for her patient-centric approach in Cincinnati, Southwest Florida, and beyond.Her professional journey began at Cincinnati Childrens Hospital Medical Center in 1999 on the hematology/oncology/bone marrow transplant unit and later the emergency department.After spending five years caring for children, Jillian found her passion in caring for the adult oncology patient. Starting as a chemotherapy infusion nurse in private practice with Dr. Philip Leming at Cincinnati Hematology Oncology, she then pursued an advanced degree to offer a higher level of care to her cancer patients.Jillian has been an oncology nurse practitioner since 2011 and is passionate about patient care, education and staying current on research opportunities available for the patients she cares for.Jillian is a national speaker traveling to educate clinicians on the use and management of toxicities of medications that are used in cancer treatments. She has spoken at national nursing conferences and sits on several advisory boards. Jillian feels strongly about staying on the front lines to improve patient care and expert advice on cancer.Jillian was born and raised in Cincinnati and graduated from Lakota High School. She and her husband have five children. Outside of her love and passion for oncology, Jillian and her husband are licensed foster parents and have participated in global mission trips to serve orphaned children around the world.Naples Cancer Advisors239-846-2273 (CARE)3201 Tamiami Trail N, Suite 112, Naples, FL 34103

Each year, countless seniors undergo surgery for a variety of conditions, from repairing a hernia, to hip replacement or major joint surgery. While these surgeries can help improve quality of life, it sometimes takes seniors a little while to get back on their feet. Understanding their pre- and post-operative care needs can help you make a plan to make their recovery as easy as possible. Well cover some practical tips for caring for seniors after surgery, including logistical, practical and even emotional concerns. Planning Ahead: Discuss Post-Operative Care with the Doctor Before Surgery If you are a caregiver for an elderly loved one who is scheduled to have surgery, be sure to discuss post-operative care with the doctor beforehand. This will help both you and your loved one be aware of what to expect and know what steps to take to ensure a smooth recovery.Key Questions to Ask the DoctorPrior to surgery, your doctor and medical team will likely share a lot of information about the procedure surgery itself, as well as preparations to take before and after your loved ones surgery. Come prepared with a list of questions that might not be covered. Ask about any medications or recommendations for pain management, wound care and preventing infection. In order to manage home care recovery, ask your doctor about any diet or mobility restrictions to consider.  Before surgery, ask about any preparations that may need to be made to your loved ones home during recovery. Some possible considerations include. equipping bathroom areas with a shower grab bar or adding temporary ramps to stairs. Lastly, inquire about any potential complications you should watch for, as well as scheduling any follow-up appointments.Understanding Post-Surgery ExpectationsDifferent surgeries require different degrees of post-surgical care. Age, pre-existing health conditions, and invasiveness of surgery are all factors that factor into recovery. Ask your doctor and medical care team about the typical recovery time expected for your type of surgery, as well as any lifestyle changes youll need to make during your recovery period. Ask about any limitations on your daily activities, potential complications and what support you may need from loved ones or caregivers. Preparing for a Safe Recovery Environment at Home Taking care of a senior after surgery can be a formidable task, but with some preparation and organization, it can be much more manageableeven enjoyable! Here are a few tips to help make the process easier before surgery and after!Pre-Surgery Checklist for In-Home Care Create a plan for care before surgery. This will help ensure that everything is taken care of when the senior is recovering from surgery. Ask for help from family or friends. They can provide support and help with tasks around the house.Make sure the home is safe for the senior to return to. Remove any tripping hazards and install grab bars in bathrooms as needed. Acquire home equipment for safety and comfort: Rent or purchase equipment that can make recovery easier and safer. Adjustable beds, non-slip mats and temporary ramps can aid safety and mobility during recovery.Stock up on supplies. Make sure your loved one has a full supply of bandages, medical tape, cold packs and medications before coming home from surgery. This will ensure that you have everything you need when you need it. Assist with medication schedules and doctors appointments. Helping to keep on track with doctors appointments and medication schedules can be a huge help. Prepare meals that are easy to digest. Having some meals on hand for after surgery will be a huge help. Avoid foods that are high in fat or sugar. Place items within easy reach. Make sure your seniors important personal items (medications, glasses, hearing aids) are within easy reach! Reserve any aftercare equipment. If your senior will need a wheelchair or walker make sure you have these items ready for post-surgery needs. Day-of transportation. Make sure your loved one has reliable and accessible transportation on the day of surgery, as well as on the day theyre scheduled to come home.Prepare to give emotional support. Whether its a major or minor procedure, its normal to feel nervous about surgery. Help your loved one emotionally prepare for surgery and recovery. Set aside time to discuss the procedure and plans for recovery. Give them an open forum to express any fears they may have, offer relaxation techniques and proactively reach out to their friends and support system to be there for them before and after surgery, as needed.. Deliver encouragement, patience, and love as your loved one recovers from surgery.After surgery, many seniors want to stay in their own homes. This can be a difficult transition, but with the right care and support, it can be a successful one. Most seniors prefer to stay in their own homes after surgery, but they may require a little extra help to ensure a successful recovery. Here are some helpful tips for post-surgery care.How Post Surgery In-Home Care Accelerates Healing and Saves Money As a caregiver, you can help preserve a seniors quality of life and feeling of independence. Healing at home can help reduce symptoms of depression and accelerate healing. Studies show that patients are less sedentary when they are healing at home rather than healing in a hospital or care center and that readmission rates were lower in patients that were healing at home.Home healing not only promotes recovery but also significantly reduces healthcare costs. By providing high-quality care in the comfort of your home, you can help mitigate health risks and accelerate your loved ones healing process. Providing hospital-quality care at home can help reduce certain health risks and help better the healing process for your loved one.If you agree that you want to support the home healing of your loved one, but are concerned that you cant supply hospital-quality care, consider contracting with a professional home-care team to help assist you with RN-level services. Transitioning from the hospital to the home can be a tricky process to manage on your ownthere is help available!Personalizing Your After Surgery Home Health Care Plan Regardless of whether or not you decide to engage professional in-home care services, to find success with supporting your senior at home after surgery requires making a care plan. You can make this plan in conjunction with your loved ones doctor to ensure you cover all the vital points of aftercare. Take into consideration recovery goals, routines, and assigning responsibilities. Having clear expectations and goals to work toward during recovery can help your loved one make steady progress. Establishing daily routines and clear communication about family responsibilities can help you create a well-thought plan to support your loved ones recovery. You might also want to enlist the aid of a professional in-home caregiver to assist with certain responsibilities that your family is unable to cover. Professional in-home care services are available on a full-time or part-time basis.Important Components of a Post-Op Care PlanOrganizing all of the moving parts of your family members recovery is a big job. But with careful planning, you and your loved ones care team can help pave a smoother path to recovery. There are medical, environmental, logistical and mental/emotional components to consider when planning for your loved ones post-op recovery. From a medical standpoint, make sure you understand what medications theyll need to take and stock up on all necessary medications and supplies, such as bandages and wound dressings. Youll also want to prepare their home environment and modify any areas for safety or comfort during recovery. Coordinating logistics involves arranging transportation to and from surgery, as well as to follow-up appointments or additional therapy, if therapy isnt administered at home. And finally, make a plan to take care of the mental and emotional needs of your loved one during their recovery. Socialization and stimulation such as playing games, crafting or conversations can help boost their mood and outlook during recovery.Setting Recovery GoalsOnce you and your loved one are clear on what can be expected after surgery, you can start setting realistic recovery goals together. When there are benchmarks to work toward, recovery becomes more manageable both for your loved one and you - their caregiver. Every persons goals and progress will look a little different, making it important to discuss realistic and measurable goals with your care team. Goals such as regaining mobility and strength as well as managing and reducing pain levels can aid in boosting morale during recovery. In order to maintain a positive outlook, its important to set realistic timelines and schedule regular check-ins to track progress and adjust goals as needed.Involving Family Members in Care PlanningFamily members play an important role in your loved ones recovery. Often, youll know your loved ones likes, dislikes, preferences and communication style, which can alert you if their recovery isnt proceeding normally. There are so many ways that family caregivers can contribute to a care plan, including providing emotional support, mental stimulation, social interaction and more. From maintaining clear communication with your loved ones doctors to helping with activities of daily living like getting dressed and meal preparation, there are many meaningful ways to help your loved one throughout their recovery.The Need for Professional Home Care After SurgeryDepending on your loved ones medical, practical and logistical needs following surgery, professional home care may be a necessary component of their recovery. Post-surgery home health care often provides the opportunity for a faster recovery with fewer complications. In-home health care can include skilled nursing staff to assist with medications and wound care or professional in-home caregivers that help with activities of daily living, transportation needs and companionship. Navigating The Costs of Post-Surgery Home Care Post-surgery home care costs vary by care level, duration and location. To make the best choice for your situation, talk with a trusted professional for an assessment of your loved ones specific in-home care needs. There are a number of options that can make the cost of in-home care more affordable for those who need it, including private insurance and long-term care insurance (LTCI). Some individuals may also qualify for military benefits or PACE (Program All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly). Discuss your options today with your current provider or one of our BrightStar Care professionals to discover what coverage options are available to you.Emotional and Social Support During Recovery While medical care and skilled nursing support is of great importance during post-op recovery, emotional and social support is equally important. Activities like reading, listening to music and creating art are all ways to create opportunities for mental stimulation. Companionship with friends, family, or a professional caregiver can all contribute to mental and emotional well-being and boost morale during your loved ones recovery.Tips for Taking Care of Seniors at Home After Surgery Understand and follow doctor's orders. The most important thing you can do is ensure you understand any post-op care instructions your loved one's doctor has prescribed. This is critical to their health and healing.Make sure they have plenty of fluids. Dehydration can be a common complication after surgery, so make sure your loved one drinks plenty of water, juice, and other fluids. Encourage them to move around as much as possible. Surgery can often leave seniors feeling weak and stiff, so encourage them to move around as much as possible, per doctors orders. This will help improve their mobility and reduce the risk of complications. Help them with basic tasks such as bathing, dressing, and grooming. These tasks can be difficult for seniors after surgery, so offer to help out as much as you can. Keep a close eye on their pain levels. Pain is often one of the biggest challenges for seniors after surgery, so make sure you are keeping a close eye on their pain levels and taking steps to manage it effectively. Enhance pain management. During recovery, there are additional ways to help minimize pain and complement prescribed pain relief. This includes using ice packs, supportive pillows and relaxation techniques. Make sure they get plenty of rest. Surgery can be exhausting, so make sure your loved one gets plenty of rest in the days following their procedure. Watch out for warning signs. Keep an eye on your loved one for signs of infection, such as fever, redness or swelling around the surgery site, or drainage from the wound. Assist your loved one with their medication schedule. Stay on top of daily medications as directed by the surgeon. Offer transportation. Transport your loved one to follow-up appointments and other medical appointments as needed. Check in on them regularly. It's important to keep an eye on your loved one's progress after surgery, so check in with them regularly to see how they're doing. If you notice any problems or concerns, don't hesitate to bring them up with their doctor. Following these tips can help ensure a smooth recovery for your loved one after surgery. With a little bit of help, they'll be able to return to their normal routine in no time.Common Post-Surgery Complications to Watch For During your loved ones recovery, its important to watch for any complications that could derail recovery or introduce new medical issues. Common post-op complications include infections, blood clots, and respiratory problems. Every surgical procedure carries its own risk of complications. Its important to consult with your surgeon and medical team to understand what potential complications may look like and know the appropriate steps to take. Long-Term Recovery Considerations While some post-op recovery is short-term, some people may have a longer period of recovery. A professional in-home caregiver can provide a level of ongoing care and peace of mind that supports necessary lifestyle changes long-term. Whether a need for more extensive care arises due to surgical complications or slower recovery due to aging or pre-existing conditions, long-term care can ensure your loved one receives the care they need and deserve regardless of the length of their recovery.Consider Transitional Post-Hospital In-Home Care Services with BrightStar Care The final step in taking care of seniors at home after surgery is ensuring they have enough support to safely transition to recovering at home. This includes help with things like bathing, grooming, and transportation. You may also need to help them with their medications and wound care. If your loved one doesnt have the extra care and support they need to make a successful transition at home, consider enlisting professional home care support from the RN-led team from BrightStar Care. We offer both long-term and short-term transitional care to help your loved one focus on their recovery and help ease the burden on families while their loved one adjusts. BrightStar Care staff ensures that your loved one receives the critical home health support they need, reducing the need for re-hospitalization, falls, medication mistakes, and mental stress which can delay healing or worsen health. With an in-home caregiver, your loved one will be monitored and cared for if and when you cant be there. Its not uncommon for seniors to assume they can do more than they safely can after a surgery. If they are alone, they can face the danger of falling without assistance, taking the wrong doses of medication without supervision, or simply slip into loneliness and depression. Making the decision to stay at home after surgery can be difficult, but with the right care and support, it can be a successful transition. If you are having difficulty providing this care yourself, consider enlisting BrightStar Care to provide the extra care and support your loved one needs to make a successful transition home. To learn more call, us at 303-300-6666.