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Have a Teenager Going Off to College? Take These 3 Health Steps Before They Leave

Have a Teenager Going Off to College? Take These 3 Health Steps Before They Leave

Summer has passed. Now, it’s time for your not-so-little child to fly the coop and brave the world of higher education.
Sending your child off to college can be stressful for both you and the upcoming freshman. From scheduling classes and familiarizing yourselves with the college town, prepping for life after high school can seem a bit for overwhelming and chaotic. This can lead to certain important aspects being forgotten — like your child’s healthcare while they’re away from you.


Below are a few health steps to follow as your child moves onto higher education.

1. Discuss dosage and the dangers associated with medication: For most teens, parents/guardians typically handle any medications that are prescribed. But, not when they’re on their own. Talk to your teen about the dangers associated with mixing medications with one another – over the counter or not, and the effects that prescriptions can have when mixed with drugs and alcohol. Reading dosage instructions on over the counter or prescribed medications should be taken seriously as well. For your daughter, talk with her about how antibiotics cancel out the effectiveness of birth control.

2. Send them off with the proper health information: It may be helpful for your teen – and give you some relief – if they have all health-related information typed up or programmed in their phone. Be sure to included insurance information, a list of current prescriptions and dosages, medication or other allergies, urgent care name, number and address and contact info for the campus health center.

3. A first aid kit will come in handy: Your teen will probably think your overpacking for them, but at some point, that last minute first aid kid will be needed. Be sure to include band aids, gauze, antibiotic ointment, ice packs, a digital thermometer, acetaminophen and any other items you deem necessary. If you want to add a little something extra, create a ‘sick’ kit for when your teen turns under the weather. Soup, crackers, tea bags and Pepto Bismol may just be what your kid needs to feel at home while they’re sick at college.

These are just a few helpful tips that will help with you and your child’s transition. The last tip would be to trust that you have taught and guided your teen into a smart college student. Remind your freshman if they have any questions related to their health or prescriptions that you are only a phone call away! For any serious medical concerns about your child going off to college, you should consult with their doctor for more information.

Is your freshman headed to Alderson-Broaddus?
The AB Wellness Clinic is located on the ground floor of Burbick Hall, making healthcare services convenient for every Alderson-Broaddus student, faculty and staff member. For more information, please stop by or call 304-457-0400.

Get to Know our New PA-C, Stephen Harris

Barbour Community Health Association is pleased to announce the addition of Stephen Harris, PA-C, to our dedicated staff. Stephen Harris will serve as one of eight Physician Assistants caring for our patients. Read on to learn more.

Read More »
August 31, 2023 No Comments

Prepare Your Child for a Safe School Year with These Tips

Prepare Your Child for a Safe SCHOOL YEAR with These Tips

This year has certainly been a challenging one. With the spread of COVID-19, Americans have had to make changes and adjustments in their day-to-day life. From losing their job or working from home to limit the spread, many have had to make sacrifices to keep themselves and loved ones safe.

Now, it is back-to-school season, and many are on edge about returning to “normal”, or more so adjusting to a new normal. Both students and parents/guardians are going through the emotions and thoughts that are “let’s get back to school” but also “how do we keep our kids safe?”

As the school year is quickly approaching, here are some tips on how to ease your mind and prepare your child for a safe semester.

 

  1. Prepare your child for a new set up.

Many school districts are implementing new regulations to keep students, teachers, and staff safe and well. School rooms and lunch areas may look different with safeguards in place. It’s probable that students will not be able to gather or converse next to each other and after school activities may be limited as well. Explain to your child that these procedures are only to limit and prevent the spread of COVID-19. These new changes may be difficult for your child to adapt to, but it’s important that they understand the reasoning behind the regulations.

 

2. Promote mask wearing.

The CDC recommends that everyone wear a mask or face covering to limit the spread of COVID-19. Masks may slow the spread of the virus and keep people who may have the virus and do not know it from transmitting it to others. Because of the CDC recommendations, many school systems require that students, teachers, and staff wear a mask when in the building. This can be frustrating to students, especially younger children. Explain to your child that mask wearing is a necessity for their safety and their family’s. There are tons of masks available with various prints and designs to accentuate your child’s style. Perhaps, allow your child to choose a few of their favorites for the school year.

 

3. Educate your child on social distancing & proper hygiene.

As schools begin to open, physical distancing from others will be a top priority for school administration. Like mask wearing, you should educate your child on the importance of social distancing. If you’ve been following the CDC guidelines, social distancing should not be new to your child; however, it may be difficult for them to grasp in a school setting. Explain that physical distancing is just as critical in school as it is in a grocery store and will keep them, their friends, favorite teachers, and family safe.

Regular hand washing should also be encouraged, especially since school is back in session. Send your child to school with their own personal hand sanitizer and explain that they should use it often when hand washing is not available.

 

4. Listen to your child’s concerns.

This school year can be scary for many. Parents have their concerns about their child’s safety and education. But understand that your child also has their own worries. If your child is expressing concern, listen and try to ease their worries. Also, it should be noted that some school districts are allowing students to take courses online. This may be an alternative option to consider that can benefit your child and your family as well. 

 

There’s no doubt that 2020 has been quite a year for the books. And with the increasing number of COVID-19 cases in the U.S., many are still left uncertain about the rest of the year and the following years. With that said, many are preparing to adjust to a new set up — jobs, income, home care and school.

We hope these tips will help you prepare for the upcoming modified school year.

Get to Know our New PA-C, Stephen Harris

Barbour Community Health Association is pleased to announce the addition of Stephen Harris, PA-C, to our dedicated staff. Stephen Harris will serve as one of eight Physician Assistants caring for our patients. Read on to learn more.

Read More »
August 31, 2023 No Comments

Our Favorite Spots to Enjoy Barbour County in the Summer

Our Favorite Spots to Enjoy Barbour County in the Summer

Summers in Barbour County, West Virginia are a much-anticipated treat for both locals and tourists. From swimming to hiking and the adventures in-between, Barbour County holds some of the best recreation spots in the Mountain State and brings in tourists from all over to explore the county’s waters and natural bends.

We have put together a list of the top spots and activities that are a must see each summer in Barbour County.

Adventure Through Audra State Park
Located in southwestern Barbour County, Audra State Park is a solid summer spot for all your adventure needs. Swim in the Middle Fork River or take a walk through one of the many trails in the heavily wooded forest that encompasses the park. On your hike, you’ll find several photo opportunities as the park is etched with scenic outlooks and a rock overhang of the Alum Cave. Camping and picnic areas are available.

Hit the County Waters
Barbour County offers several waterways for your enjoyment during the summer months, including the clear Middle Fork River and the long-traveling Tygart River, which flows through Marion, Barbour, Randolph, Taylor and Pocahontas Counties. These waters offer some of the best swimming holes and dock areas for kayaking and rafting. Take the kayak on the Barbour County waters and you could find your way floating through downtown Philippi underneath the famous Covered Bridge.

Visit Moats Falls
Located in Moatsville, Moats Falls is tucked away close to Hell’s Gate and Devil’s Den rock formations near Arden. The falls are part of the larger Big Cove Run of the Tygart Valley River and offer a Class III white-water flow, complete with a 10-foot drop, providing an adrenaline-charged river-run for kayaking enthusiasts. Visitors will find a natural rock bridge that will allow them to get several scenic views of the mighty Tygart Valley River. In the nearby calmer waters, anglers can drop or cast their lines in for some trout, walleye, or catfish. At Moats Falls, you will find the area is suitable for any recreational activity, including hiking, birding, walking, running, fishing and more.

Visit Teter Creek Lake
Bring the boat and enjoy a day of fishing on Teter Creek Lake. Camping is also available if you want to make a weekend out of it! You’ll find plenty to do on the 137 acres of land Teter Creek has to offer!

Take Advantage of the City Trails

Philippi’s City Bike Trail network is an easy walk for the whole family to get the body moving and t  o enjoy the scenic views of the county. Walk along the Tygart River and catch a kayaker passing by or see a fisherman jump for joy as he catches a trout.

Have a Picnic at the Belington City Park
The Belington City Park is an ideal spot for a family picnic or get-together as the park’s gazebo is a beautiful backdrop for family photos. Surrounded by trees and plenty of space, this park is open for family games, the little ones to play, or to wind down after a long day.

Barbour County is well-known for its historic background, but the county also brings in folks from all over for its breathtaking scenic lands and pristine waters. Consider exploring one or two (or all) of these gems this summer.

Get to Know our New PA-C, Stephen Harris

Barbour Community Health Association is pleased to announce the addition of Stephen Harris, PA-C, to our dedicated staff. Stephen Harris will serve as one of eight Physician Assistants caring for our patients. Read on to learn more.

Read More »
August 31, 2023 No Comments

Tips for Quitting

Tips For Quitting

Guest Blogger: Holly Hobert, BSN, RN, CTTS

Quitting tobacco is the single best thing you can do to improve your health. Quitting smoking at any age can lead to positive health outcomes. YOU DESERVE TO QUIT!

Get Help! People are more successful when they get help quitting. Both Myers and Belington Clinics have a Certified Tobacco Treatment Specialist on staff, which includes myself and Kim Jeffries, RN, CTTS. We have specialized training, which provides us better understanding of how to help you Quit.

It’s Not Just A Matter Of Will Power! Nicotine is as addictive as heroin or cocaine. Smoking increases the number of nicotine receptors in your brain. When you stop smoking, those receptors continue to expect nicotine. The adjustment process, is what causes cravings and withdrawal. We can recommend which medications may be right for you. Some medications are over the counter and some are by prescription. All of our providers advocate and support tobacco cessation.

Multiple Quit Attempts Get You Closer To The Finish Line! It doesn’t matter if you’ve tried many times and not been successful. Each Quit attempt gets you closer to quitting for good. The average person takes an average of 8 – 11 attempts to quit. It doesn’t matter if you’ve smoked for 1 year or 40 years, you can still benefit from quitting. 

Build Your Quit Plan

  1. Pick a Quit Date — Sooner is better than later. Choose the date carefully. This is a Big Step and huge decision. Circle the date on the calendar. 
  2. Let Those Close To You Know You’re Quitting — Quitting is easier with support from important people in your life.
  3. Get Rid of Smoking/Tobacco Reminders — For Quit day, get rid of all cigarettes, tobacco, e-cigarettes, matches, lighters, ashtrays. Don’t keep a back-up for “just in case”. Clean out your home and car to rid the smell, as this can trigger a craving. 
  4. Identify Your Reasons for Quitting — As you prepare to Quit, think about your reasons for quitting and remind yourself of them every day. They will inspire you to quit for good. Write them down and hang them up in a prominent place, such as the refrigerator or bathroom mirror.
  5. Identify Your Triggers — Make a list of everything that makes you feel like smoking or chewing and include ways to deal with these or avoid these triggers.

6. Develop Coping Strategies — When you quit tobacco, smoking or e-cigarettes, your body has to adjust to no longer having nicotine. This is called withdrawal, which is unpleasant, but you can get through it. Medications and behavior changes can help you manage symptoms of withdrawal. Make sure to have medications on hand prior to your quit date. Remember, cravings will lessen with every day that you stay quit. 

For more details on How to manage cravings, check out this site.

7. Hang in There — The first few weeks of quitting are the hardest. You will deal with uncomfortable feelings, temptations, withdrawal symptoms, and cravings. Plan on using multiple support options such as mobile apps, WV Tobacco Quit Line: 1-800-QUIT-NOW. Remember we are here for you, want to support you and can walk you through the quit process. 

8. Reward Yourself — Reward yourself throughout the process. Each minute, hour and day you have been quit is progress toward your goal. Give yourself a reward at 24 hours, one week, and one month quit. Be proud of your accomplishments. Consider putting the money you would have used for tobacco in a jar and use this for the reward fund. 

Get to Know our New PA-C, Stephen Harris

Barbour Community Health Association is pleased to announce the addition of Stephen Harris, PA-C, to our dedicated staff. Stephen Harris will serve as one of eight Physician Assistants caring for our patients. Read on to learn more.

Read More »
August 31, 2023 No Comments

Telehealth Appointments – What You Need to Know

Telehealth Appointments – What You Need to Know

Like many health clinics across the nation, Barbour Community Health Association has begun offering telehealth services to its patients. Through virtual doctor visits, patients are given the option to converse with their provider about medical concerns via video chat or phone. These services allow patients to still feel connected to providers while practicing social distancing and staying safe during the COVID-19 pandemic.

We sat down with Jennifer Burner, MHA, PA-C, Clinical Director, Director of Quality Improvement & Risk Management, to find out more about telemedicine and how useful the resource is during these unprecedented times.

 

Q: What is telehealth?

A: Telehealth has been around for years, but many providers have been slow to adopt these methods due to spotty access, but also because of limited insurance coverage for care. Telehealth allows providers to care for and protect patients and BCHA staff during COVID-19.

Q: What telehealth options are available through BCHA?

A: We offer two different services with BCHA for telehealth. We offer a virtual telephone visit — similar to a telephone encounter that you’ve had with your provider in the past. Your provider can speak with you briefly for five minutes to determine if you need to be seen in person or they can speak to you over a longer course of time to discuss chronic disease or other issues you may be having.

We also offer a video conferencing or video chat appointment, and basically, it’s an online video meeting with your provider. It’s live and a real time visit where you can see your provider on your screen and your provider can see you. You can do it through a smartphone, a tablet and a home computer as long as you have a camera.

Q: What medical concerns can be seen by a provider via telehealth?

A: Anything that can be examined through video can be done through a telehealth appointment. One thing we can’t do is if you have a problem and we need a specific medical tool to diagnose you — for instance, if you have an earache, we can’t look at your ear through a video visit.

However, a lot of other conditions, like a rash, discussing chronic disease like diabetes or hypertension,  can discussed through a telehealth appointment.

Behavioral health patients can also use telehealth to speak to their therapists and counselors. It’s confidential and private, but there’s still that connection that you get face to face.

Q: Who can participate in the telehealth appointments?

A: Any patient can participate. If the patient is a minor, they’ll need to have a guardian with them and the guardian will have to give consent for the visit.

Q: How secure are telehealth visits?

A: We use a platform called UpDox and it’s a video chat that allows BCHA to offer secure communications with patients. It is very secure, and we also have a very strict consent policy where the patient is made aware of anybody who may be in the room. However, we do not let anybody in the room when we’re doing a video chat. We’ve put a lot of measures in place to make sure we’re protecting our patients’ privacy when we do these calls.

Q: What do I need to do to begin telehealth and get connected with my provider?

A: You can call your provider’s office and speak to registration and just let them know that you would like to set up a telehealth visit — whether that be a telehealth call or video chat.

 

To schedule a telehealth appointment, call Belington Medical Clinic at 304-823-2800 or Myers Clinic at 304-457-2800.

When you call to make an appointment, a BCHA representative will inform you of available telehealth appointments and if a healthcare provider can assist you via telehealth depending on your medical needs/concerns.

Get to Know our New PA-C, Stephen Harris

Barbour Community Health Association is pleased to announce the addition of Stephen Harris, PA-C, to our dedicated staff. Stephen Harris will serve as one of eight Physician Assistants caring for our patients. Read on to learn more.

Read More »
August 31, 2023 No Comments

Don’t go it alone: Learn how to cope with stress and anxiety from COVID-19

Don’t go it alone: Learn how to cope with stress and anxiety from COVID-19

Guest Blogger: Jamie Wilson, LPC

If someone told us last year that we would be confined to our homes and fighting a pandemic in 2020 would we have believed them? I sure would not have. But here we are. West Virginians are strong and resilient, but if you feel stressed or anxious about what is going on in the world you are not alone. In March a survey done by the American Psychological Association (APA) found that over one-third of Americans report their mental health has been seriously impacted by coronavirus and 59% state it has had an effect on their daily lives. The good news is there are things we can do each day to combat that stress and anxiety.

Signs of Stress
Being able to recognize the signs of stress can be vital for those who surround you. Stress can manifest itself in both physical and emotional ways. Remember, those closest to us often see these things before we do. So, if a family member or friend voices concern, try and listen. Here are a few common signs and symptoms of stress to look out for in both yourself and others:

  • Sleep difficulties
  • Appetite changes
  • Nausea/Vomiting/Diarrhea
  • Headaches
  • Muscle Tension
  • Irritability
  • Depressed Mood
  • Lack of Interest in Previously Enjoyed Activities
  • Persistent Worry

Coping Skills
There are so many ways people can deal with stress, it’s important to have healthy ways to cope. If you or someone you know is experiencing increased stress, here are a variety of self-care activities they can participate in to help calm their bodies and minds:

  • Sticking to A Consistent Daily Schedule
  • Taking Breaks to Breathe and Relax through Meditation or Stretching
  • 20-30 minutes of Light Exercise
  • Fueling Your Body Through Proper Nutrition
  • Encouraging Healthy Brain Activity Through Reading, Arts & Crafts, and other Creative Ventures
  • Maintaining Social Connection Through Phone Calls, E-Mails, or Online Video Chats with Friends and Family
  • Avoid Numbing Agents such as Alcohol or Drugs

Additional Support
If you find yourself still feeling stressed after trying the above tips, or if you have a mental health condition and your symptoms are increasing, please reach out for help. You are not alone, and you do not have to go through it alone.

Get to Know our New PA-C, Stephen Harris

Barbour Community Health Association is pleased to announce the addition of Stephen Harris, PA-C, to our dedicated staff. Stephen Harris will serve as one of eight Physician Assistants caring for our patients. Read on to learn more.

Read More »
August 31, 2023 No Comments

Healthcare Worker Burnout – How Much is Too Much?

Healthcare Worker Burnout - How Much is Too Much?

Guest Blogger: Jamie Wilson, Barbour Community Health Association LPC

Every day, healthcare workers of all kinds put themselves in harm’s way in order to do what they feel called to do, assist others. Our current situation has shed a new light on these amazing individuals and the sacrifices they make daily to do their jobs. Unfortunately, their work also bares the risk for becoming stressed or overwhelmed, particularly in times of crisis much like our current state.

When a healthcare worker becomes overwhelmed to the point where they are unable to perform their duties, it is often referred to as burnout. The Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality defines burnout as “a long-term stress reaction marked by emotional exhaustion, depersonalization, and a lack of sense of personal accomplishment.” Recognizing and addressing burnout is not only important for the wellbeing of our healthcare workers, but also for the patients who are depending on them for safe and effective care. So how do you know if you or someone you work with is experiencing burnout and what can you do to fix it?

While every individual brain and body is different, there are some common signs of burnout to look for in both ourselves and others. Physical signs may include:

  • Freezing
  • Unresponsiveness/Distracted/Dissociation
  • Darting Vision
  • Hypervigilance
  • Restlessness
  • Exaggerated Startle Response
  • Sensory Sensitivity
  • Avoidance Behaviors
  • Reckless/Self-Destructive Behaviors
  • Sleep Difficulties
  • Preoccupation with Exit Strategies/Physical positioning
  • Frequent Somatic Complaints

We may also experience emotional signs and changes such as:

  • Diminished Interest in Activities
  • Irritability/Anger Outbursts
  • Persistent Negativity
  • Mood Swings
  • Emotional Sensitivity
  • Rigidness and Inability to Adapt to or Accept Change
  • Cognitive Distancing or Operating on Auto-Pilot

If you or someone you know is experiencing burnout, there are strategies and resources available to help restore them to a healthier state.

Relaxation and emotional regulatory activities such as meditation, yoga, progressive muscle relaxation, and guided imagery encourage activity in the frontal lobe of our brains. The result allows for increases in concentration, memory, and rational thought.

Basic self-care in the form of eating, sleeping, physical activity, and social connection is also important to both preventing and treating burnout. Keeping a consistent schedule each day with regards to these basic activities allows our brains and bodies to know what to expect and when. In uncertain times such as these, something as small as knowing when you will be eating or sleeping can be comforting and provide a sense of normalcy within the daily routine.

If you are concerned for a co-worker, there are options for how to appropriately guide them to help. If you feel comfortable approaching them directly, do so with clear intentions of genuine concern. Simply stating, “I know this is a difficult time and I just want to check in with you and see how you’re doing” can go a long way. Give them some time to process your question and their own feelings, as they may not realize the potentially harmful state they are in.  

If your concern isn’t well-received or you don’t feel it appropriate to approach the person directly, address your concerns to your supervisor to ensure they are getting the help they need.

Last, but certainly not least, remember to be kind and patient with both ourselves and others. Everyone will have good days and bad days, and that is okay. Staying focused on the light at the end of the tunnel can help to stay on track through these difficult, but temporary times.

Get to Know our New PA-C, Stephen Harris

Barbour Community Health Association is pleased to announce the addition of Stephen Harris, PA-C, to our dedicated staff. Stephen Harris will serve as one of eight Physician Assistants caring for our patients. Read on to learn more.

Read More »
August 31, 2023 No Comments

Starting Therapy During COVID-19 Pandemic

Starting Therapy During COVID-19 Pandemic

Homebound? Anxious? On edge? The coronavirus isn’t the only health risk our community will have to battle. Our Barbour Community Health Association therapists say the fight for our mental health is just as serious, which is why we have adapted our practices to keep them working with patients at home during the stay-at-home order.

When you’re suffering on the inside, day-to-day tasks are challenging and can be a difficult hurdle to jump alone. Unfortunately, seeking mental health services can be difficult for some. Whether it’s the stigma surrounding mental health or one’s ability to pay/ have health insurance, these instances can often halt someone from getting the help they need.

Thankfully, we offer numerous behavioral health services to help you sort through any anguish with a trained professional. With well-trained psychologists and licensed counselors, BCHA can help diagnose and treat a range of mental illnesses, from depressive, anxiety, and eating disorders to attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), as well as many others. BCHA takes pride in taking care of one’s emotional/mental well-being to enhance their quality of life.

Keep reading this blog to find out how you can comfortably start therapy at home during this uncertain time with BCHA and what you can expect.

 

1. Keep searching for the right therapist.

Stepping into a virtual therapy office is a milestone for someone suffering from a mental illness. With that said, if you don’t quite jive or feel comfortable with the first therapist, don’t be afraid to find a different one. It’s important that you feel relaxed, open and honest so you can form a solid relationship with the therapist. This way, you’ll feel more motivated and open during your scheduled sessions, which in return, will help your mental health.

2. Disregard the stigma.

So many people go without therapy or treatment for mental illness because of the stigma attached to mental health. However, you should not let the crude remarks and comments negatively affect you and your journey into a better life. And, please understand that each therapy session is completely confidential. You should never have to worry about any information being discussed amongst others. 

3. Be comfortable talking about therapy.

Talking about therapy to a close friend or family member can be a relief and take away any anxieties you may have about future sessions. Not only will this help your fears of embarrassment, but openly talking about therapy breaks the stigma. Be mindful that you don’t have to share all the details that were discussed during the session, however simply saying ‘I had therapy today, and it really helped get a lot of things off of my mind’ can be huge with your fears of therapy.

4. Money might be a concern, but your mental health is worth it.

Along with the stigmas attached to therapy, sessions can oftentimes be steep, which ultimately stops people from therapy. However, it’s important to understand that your mental health and quality of life is worth every penny. Luckily, BCHA offers sliding scale fees for those without insurance or underinsured individuals. BCHA encourages folks not to stray away from services because of cost or the stigma attached to mental health.

5. Virtual appointments are available during COVID-19.

These are unprecedented times but BCHA is evolving and adapting to how it meets with and treats patients while COVID-19 persists. Virtual appointments, through video and telephone, are available and will be utilized until it’s safe to resume “normal” in-person appointments at one of its Barbour County locations.

In each service that is offered, BCHA is looking out for the betterment of each patient that needs help, whether that’s physically or mentally.

 

The COVID-19 pandemic brings with it uncertainty for everyone as we cope with uncertain timelines, time away from loved ones and increased amounts of stress due to financial hardship – just know what we are here to help.

If you’re struggling, please consider reaching out to BCHA and scheduling a phone consultation with one of our experienced counselors. 

Get to Know our New PA-C, Stephen Harris

Barbour Community Health Association is pleased to announce the addition of Stephen Harris, PA-C, to our dedicated staff. Stephen Harris will serve as one of eight Physician Assistants caring for our patients. Read on to learn more.

Read More »
August 31, 2023 No Comments

There’s No Place like Home for Myers Clinic’s New Nurse Manager

There's No Place like home for myers clinic's new nurse manager

The Myers Clinic is thrilled to have Lorelle Kisamore join the team as the clinic’s newly hired nurse manager. Lorelle has almost 40 years of nursing experience working in various positions and roles in the area and is sure to be an asset to the nursing department. We sat down with Lorelle and discussed her background as a nurse, how she hopes to grow in her new position as the nurse manager.

Q: Did you grow up in Barbour County?
A: Yes, I am a local girl. Having grown up in Barbour County, it’s exciting to be able to take care of my neighbors, friends and the community.

Q: What qualifies you for this position?
A: I have 38 years of experience as a nurse and have worked in various roles. Most recently, I was the Director of Nursing for the West Virginia Veterans Nursing Home in Clarksburg for 7 years. In 1981, I graduated from Davis and Elkins College with an Associate of Science Degree in Nursing.

Q: With so many years of experience, what is your favorite thing about being a nurse?
A: I like that nursing doesn’t confine you to one particular area. You can be a nurse in surgery, ICU or an outpatient clinic and then switch to another area if you want to try something else.

Q: What will be your duties as the Myers Clinic’s nurse manager?
A: I will schedule staff, ensure that the office runs smoothly and adapt and move staff around to cover when needed. I will assist the staff to provide care for patients when the need arises. I’ll also oversee the ordering supplies, medications and equipment.

Q: What do you hope to bring to the Myers Clinic?
A: I hope to bring stability to the clinic because when there’s a change in an area, there’s fear. But, I will treat everyone equally and I will help out whenever and wherever help is needed.

Q: How do you like to spend your spare time?
A: My family and I like to camp at Holly River or Canaan. I enjoy reading while my husband trout fishes at various streams in the area. I also am a volunteer with the Barbour County Fair Board where I serve as secretary. 

Get to Know our New PA-C, Stephen Harris

Barbour Community Health Association is pleased to announce the addition of Stephen Harris, PA-C, to our dedicated staff. Stephen Harris will serve as one of eight Physician Assistants caring for our patients. Read on to learn more.

Read More »
August 31, 2023 No Comments

Cervical Cancer Myths Busted

Cervical Cancer Myths Busted

Cervical cancer is considered the fourth most frequent cancer in women with nearly 13,000 women in the United States diagnosed each year. These numbers are startling. However, with vaccinations and early care, many of these women can prevent or lessen the severity of cancer.

That’s why the month of January is so critical in women’s health. January is recognized as Cervical Cancer Awareness Month and empowers people living with cervical cancer and advocates for screening and the HPV vaccination — two factors that can prevent cervical cancer.

With that said, it’s important to understand what HPV is and how it is linked to certain cancers.

Human papillomavirus, or HPV, is the most common viral infection of the reproductive tract and is mainly transmitted through sexual contact. The HPV infection has been known to cause cancer in the genitals, head, neck, and throat. Cervical cancer is by far the most common HPV-related disease and nearly 70% of cases are attributable to HPV infection.

We sat down with Patti A. Hackney, MSN, APRN, CNM and Kelli Snider, LPN at Barbour Community Health Association to bust some common myths surrounding cervical cancer and vaccinations:

  1. Myth: Only girls should receive the HPV vaccination.

Fact: HPV affects both men and women and can cause genital warts, penile, anal, and oral cancer. It can also be easily transmitted to a sexual partner without either of the partners knowing.

  1. Myth: The HPV vaccination causes HPV.

Fact: The vaccine has been researched for many years (including at least 10 years of research before it could even be used in humans) and is highly monitored by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Vaccinations in the U.S. have never been safer because of the stringent standards the FDA uses.

  1. Myth: My child doesn’t need the vaccine; they aren’t sexually active.

Fact: It’s recommended that your child receive the HPV vaccination as soon as possible to prevent them from exposure to the virus. Two doses of the HPV vaccine are recommended for all boys and girls at ages 11-12; the vaccine can be given as early as age 9. If you wait until they’re 15 or older, they need three doses instead of two.

  1. Myth: HPV isn’t common.

Fact: HPV is the most common viral infection of the reproductive tract and is mainly transmitted through sexual contact with over 80 million Americans currently infected. In fact, nearly every male and female will be infected with at least one type of HPV at least once in their lifetime. This is why early vaccination is so important to preventing the spread and exposure of HPV.

  1. Myth: The HPV vaccination isn’t safe.

Fact: The Centers for Disease Control indicate that with over 12 years of monitoring and research, the HPV vaccination is very safe. Each HPV vaccine went through years of extensive safety testing before they were licensed by the U.S. FDA. The FDA only licenses a vaccine if it is safe, effective, and the benefits outweigh the risks.

With this information in mind, understand that standard GYN visits, routine screenings and vaccination could save you or a loved one’s life from cervical cancer or other cancers that can be brought on from HPV.

If you have any further questions, give Barbour Community Health Association a call today!

Get to Know our New PA-C, Stephen Harris

Barbour Community Health Association is pleased to announce the addition of Stephen Harris, PA-C, to our dedicated staff. Stephen Harris will serve as one of eight Physician Assistants caring for our patients. Read on to learn more.

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August 31, 2023 No Comments