Here are five easy ways first – time parents can prepare their toddler for the first dental visit. Make it fun, make it flavorful, play pretend, praise and give them positive reinforcement.
Category: Health
COMMENTARY: Latinos, let’s talk about our mental health
18.4% of Latinos struggled with mental health in 2020, but only 35% received treatment compared to the nearly half of white persons who received treatment. Culturally, seeking mental health services still carries a stigma within the Latinx community. Fears of reporting immigration status, being labeled as “loco,” and speaking about personal issues with a stranger contribute to this stigma.
Mami & Me: Gallbladder removal through Laparoscopic surgery
Last month, I went to Kern Medical Hospital to have my gallbladder removed, as I had been diagnosed with gallstones and was suffering from gallbladder attacks. My anxiety was through the roof that morning. I woke up three times before my alarm. Although I am not a religious person, I have learned that in situations like this, you must have some hope. As a result, I began praying that I would make it out of surgery alive and be reunited with my family afterward. It worked.
As personal medical debt in Los Angeles County tops $2.6 Billion, Latinos and Blacks most harmed
About 810,000, or 1 in 10, Los Angeles County adults together owe more than $2.6 billion in medical debt as of 2021, a new analysis has found — a staggering sum that suggests extending health coverage to more people doesn’t necessarily protect them from burdensome debt. medical debt disproportionately affects the uninsured and underinsured, low-income residents, and Black and Latino populations. It said the consequences are alarming, noting that debt negatively impacts factors that determine future health outcomes, such as housing, employment, food security, and access to prescriptions and health care.
Mami & Me: How I found out I had gallstones with Biliary Colic
At the ER, they asked me all types of questions, but they couldn’t figure out what was wrong with me. It wasn’t until they did an ultrasound that they found one stone in my gallbladder. You have no idea how shocked I was to learn that. I’ve never had any health issues in my life.
CHARLENE DIMAS-PEINADO, CEO of Wellnest, advocates for mental health
While Mental Health Awareness Month was observed last month in May, the issue is often front-and-center for many Latinos and family members who support them in their mental health journey to recovery.
Charlene Dimas-Peinado, is the President and CEO of Wellnest, a $32 million nationally recognized trauma informed behavioral health and housing organization in Los Angeles. She is the first Latina President & CEO of Wellnest since its founding in 1924.
Mami & Me: Returning to work after maternity leave was heartbreaking
As a first time mother it can be a little overwhelming adjusting to the new you but, don’t be afraid to ask for accommodations that will help you best balance work and family time.
The Public Health Department helping communities affected by COVID-19
The Los Angeles County Department of Public Health (Public Health) recognizes the vital work of its partner organizations, such as the East LA Women’s Center (ELAWC), which supports Latina women, mothers and girls in underserved and vulnerable communities impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. At the ELAWC, people can be seen by a therapist or a case manager so that they can access their needs individually.
The nation’s Health Secretary has this Latina doctor on call
Reyes, a Harvard-trained physician who specializes in high-risk pregnancies, got into medicine to help women obtain health care, especially underserved or marginalized people who face systemic racism. She’s seen progress, albeit slow, over three decades, yet the number of maternal deaths each year continues to rise. She is s married to Health and Human Services Secretary Xavier Becerra, who is championing the administration’s initiative to require all states to provide Medicaid coverage to mothers for a year after giving birth.
Gilbert High School Mercadito opens as district’s first permanent pantry
Anaheim Union High School District opened the first permanent food pantry at Gilbert High School in partnership with the Second Harvest Food Bank of Orange County.
Now that the Gilbert Mercadito is open, many students, families and community members will have the opportunity to visit the pantry twice a week.
COMMENTARY: The COVID emergency ending means vaccines will cost money
One key provision that is disappearing is the continuous enrollment of Medicaid, which means that up to 14 million low-income persons could lose Medicaid coverage. States can apply for waivers, while others, as Secretary Becerra mentioned, are working with the federal government and community groups to make sure no one gets left out.
Mami & Me: How I survived by baby’s first common cold without a doctor’s visit
My own research taught me that the common cold is nearly impossible to avoid. Normally, it’s caused by the rhinovirus and comes with mild symptoms, such as a runny nose, a slight cough and sometimes a fever, according to Children’s Hospital, Los Angeles.
Levi’s symptoms included congestion, a runny nose and a fever. From experience and conversations with our pediatrician, we learned that it’s OK to give our toddler Tylenol and Children’s Motrin when a fever is present. Fever and congestion can make their little head hurt.