July - Yukon-Kuskokwim Health Corporation

Volume X No. 7 • July 15, 2005
Well Connected..
YKHC’s
Technology
Department,
in partnership with
United Utilities Inc.
and TAMSCO have
completed the first phase
of a telecommunication
technology upgrade that
will provide high-speed
connectivity to all of the
villages YKHC serves by
the end of the year. In
phase one, the villages of
Emmonak, Hooper Bay,
Quinhagak, Toksook Bay,
Aniak, St. Mary’s, and
Mekoryuk gained a faster,
more reliable connection.
Be sure to read next month’s
Messenger for details about
how this monumental
technology will improve the
healthcare service YKHC
provides throughout the
YK Delta.
YKHC’s hard-working Technology Networking Team.
Top: Aaron Mute, CIO Val Warzewick, Nick Perry.
Bottom: Joel Simon, Rhys Tony. Photo by Chris Ho.
INSIDE: YE Grads, p. 5 • RPC Wrap, p. 7 • DEET, p. 8 • Omega 3, p. 9 • Spine Care, p. 10
2
YKHC Board of Directors
Unit 1
Joe Mike
P.O. Box 20269
Kotlik, Alaska 99620
907-899-4756
Aaron S. Kameroff
P.O. Box 37
Alakanuk, Alaska 99554
907-238-3125
Unit 2
Ray Alstrom
P.O. Box 8
Marshall, Alaska 99585
907-679-6320
James C. Landlord
P.O. Box 32168
Mt. Village, AK 99632
907-591-2119
Unit 3
Billy Morgan
P.O. Box 72
Aniak, Alaska 99557
907-675-4457
Angela Morgan
P.O. Box 243
Aniak, Alaska 99557
907-675-4413
Unit 4
Fritz George
P.O. Box 62
Akiachak, Alaska 99551
907-825-4626
Moses Peter
P.O. Box 57
Tuluksak, Alaska 99679
907- 695-6420
Unit 5
Bill Kristovich
P.O. Box 1037
Bethel, Alaska 99559
907-543-4151/2212
Henry Hunter, Sr.
P.O. Box 632
Bethel, Alaska 99559
907-543-5130
Gloria Simeon
P.O. Box 308
Bethel, Alaska 99559
907-543-5676
Joseph C. Bavilla
P.O. Box 6011
Napaskiak, Alaska 99559
907-737-7062
Unit 6
Chuck Chaliak
P.O. Box 169
Nunapitchuk, Alaska
907- 527-5045
Unit 7
Robert Enoch
P.O. Box 8054
Tuntutuliak, Alaska 99680
907-256-2798
Unit 8
James R. Charlie, Sr.
P.O. Box 37012
Toksook Bay, Alaska 99637
907-427-7114
James Sipary
P.O. Box 37134
Toksook Bay, Alaska 99637
907- 427-7816
Unit 9
Reuben Hill
P.O. Box 210
Hooper Bay, Alaska 99604
H: 907-558-4096 - W: 558-4711
Moses J. Tulim
P.O. Box 130
Chevak, Alaska 99563
907-858-7366
Unit 10
Sam W. Alexie
P.O. Box 57
Eek, Alaska 99578
907-536-5428
Unit 11
Kathy W. Chase
P.O. Box 41
Holy Cross, Alaska 99602
H: 907-476-7162
Honorary Board Member
Paul John
P.O. Box 37067
Toksook Bay, Alaska 99637
907-427-74l4
Numbers to Call
YKHC......................................................................... 543-6000
Public Relations Dept. ................................................ 543-6030
Media Services ............................................................ 543-6038
Office of Environmental Health & Engineering ......... 543-6420
Technology Help Desk ................................................ 543-6070
Human Resources ....................................................... 543-6060
Job Line ................................................................... 543-6443
Learning Center .......................................................... 543-6980
Administration ............................................................ 543-6020
Hospital ....................................................................... 543-6300
Emergency Room........................................................ 543-6395
Hospital Community Relations ................................... 543-6350
Social Services ............................................................ 543-6225
Clinic Appointments ................................................. 543-6442
1-800-478-3321
Dental Appointments ................................................ 543-6229
Optometry Appointments......................................... 543-6336
Audiology Appointments .......................................... 543-6466
Subregional Clinic Appointments
Aniak ....................................................................... 675-4556
Emmonak ................................................................ 949-3500
St. Maryʼs ................................................................ 438-3500
Public Health Nurses....................................................543-2110
Pharmacy..................................................................... 543-6382
Travel Management Center ......................................... 543-6360
WIC Program .............................................................. 543-6459
Health Services .......................................................... 543-6024
Village Operations ...................................................... 543-6160
CHAP ...................................................................... 543-6160
Injury Prevention/EMS ........................................... 543-6080
Community Health & Wellness ............................... 543-6190
Behavioral Health Services ...................................... 543-6100
Phillips Ayagnirvik .................................................. 543-6700
Village Services ....................................................... 543-6740
Home Care Services .................................................... 543-6170
Volume X No. 7 • July 15, 2005
3
YKHC Board
& Committee Meetings
2005
July 19
Finance Committee
Roy Alexie,
Licensed
Practical Nurse
July 20
Governing Body
August 16
Finance Committee
August 17–18
Executive Board
September 20
Finance Committee
September 21
Governing Body
October 18
Finance Committee
October 19 – 21
Alaska Federation of Natives, in
Fairbanks.
November 15
Finance Committee
November 16–18
Full Board of Directors Meeting
December 13
Finance Committee
December 14–15
Executive Board
The Messenger is a monthly publication produced by the Yukon-Kuskokwim Health Corporation as a
report to Tribal Members. For questions, comments, submission of articles, or subscription information, write to
Messenger Editor, Media Services, Yukon-Kuskokwim
Health Corporation, P.O. Box 528, Bethel, Alaska 99559. Email: [email protected]. Deadline is the last day of the
month preceding publication. Publication is on the 15th of
every month. Anchorage Office: 4700 Business Park Blvd.
Suite E25, Anchorage, Alaska 99503. 907-677-2232. Please
ask permission to reprint articles or pictures. © 2005, Yukon-Kuskokwim Health Corporation.
R
oy Alexie (Ciquyaq) is the son of Roy and Ida Alexie and is a tribal member of
the Orutsaramuit Native Council. Royʼs father is from Napakiak and his mother
is from Kwethluk.
“I was born and raised in Bethel and graduated from Bethel High School. I
attended the University of Alaska Anchorage Licensed Practical Nurse program that
was offered through Kuskokwim Campus. The 12-month program began January
2003 and ended December 2003.” After the program, Roy passed the NCLEX-PN national certification exam and received licensure to practice as a
Licensed Practical Nurse.
“I am currently working in the Pediatrics Depart• Graduation from
ment. A few of the responsibilities I have are to
high school with
draw labs from pediatric patients, start IV Heplocks,
coursework in Engcatheterize patients to get urine samples, and place
lish, science and
patients in rooms.”
math
Roy decided to pursue a career as a licensed practical nurse while working as an emergency medical
• Completion of a
technician in the Emergency Room, and now looks
12 to 18-month
toward the registered nurse profession as a long-term
licensed practical
goal. “You all have to start somewhere. An LPN
nurse program
license is where I decided to start in my health care
• Pass national certificareer.”
cation exam
LPN Basic
Requirements
Call The YKHC Learning
Center: 907-543-6758
• Beginning wage
$19.48 hr
www.ykhc.org
Employment Opportunities • Latest News
Upcoming Events • Messenger Back Issues
4
YKHC Diabetes Prevention & Control
Happy Birthday from the Diabetes Program
from Diabetes Prevention and Control
T
he Diabetes Prevention and Control Program is sending out
birthday cards to all registered patients who have diabetes. The
card includes a reminder to get annual diabetes health exams, and
phone numbers for scheduling health, eye and dental exams.
Patients are invited to stop by the diabetes department to receive
their education update and pick up their birthday present after all
exams and lab work are completed.
Wally Richardson says, “I think sending out the birthday cards is
a good idea. I appreciated getting the greetings and reminder. Many
people in the Delta are being diagnosed with diabetes but that does
not mean we canʼt live healthy normal lives. I have had diabetes
for four years. I am trying to lose a few pounds, eat more fruits and
vegetable and check my blood sugar regularly. It is important for us
to remember and return to Native practices that kept our ancestors
healthy.”
Delaine Davis, Coordinator of the Diabetes Prevention and Control program, initiated the birthday card as a Value Added Idea.
She says, “We were concerned about our patients receiving proper
follow-up care as recommended in the Diabetes Standards of Care.
Patients with diabetes can live healthy lives by getting their annual
exams and controlling their blood sugars.”
Tips for the traveler with diabetes
• Pack twice as much medicine and supplies as you think youʼll
need and keep them with you.
• Bring extra batteries for your glucose meter.
• Bring your ID and diabetes identity card.
• Keep snacks, juice and/or glucose tablets close at hand to treat
hypoglycemia (low blood sugar).
• Keep your doctorʼs letter, insurance card, prescriptions and important phone numbers (doctor, insurance emergency line, etc.) in
your wallet.
More about Carbohydrates
What are “net carbs?” Net carbs were invented by the food marketing people. Basically they subtract fiber and sugar alcohols (they
have a slower effect on blood sugar) from the total carbohydrate to
get the “net carb” count. The catch is that sugar alcohols still have
calories. In fact many “low carb” products have the same number of
calories as their “regular” counterparts.
Healthy Recipe of the Month
SALMON KABOBS
1 pint button mushrooms
1 large onion, sliced into 1 inch chunks
2 bell peppers, red, green or yellow sliced into1 inch chunks
1 can pineapple chunks
1 pound salmon cut into 2 inch cubes (Bigger pieces
because salmon cooks quickly) or 1 inch chunks chicken
½ cup fat-free Italian dressing
8 skewers (if made of wood, soak them in cold water so
they don’t catch fire during grilling)
1. Prepare grill.
2. Assemble kabobs by alternating mushrooms, onions,
peppers, and salmon/chicken cubes on each skewer.
3. Brush all sides of each kabob with the Italian dressing
and grill over medium heat for 10 minutes, turning several
times so all parts are exposed to the heat.
SUBSCRIBE!
The Messenger will now be available
to Delta boxholders by subscription only.
You won’t be receiving it in your mailbox
every month whether you want to or not.
The subscription is
FREE!
CALL:
FAX:
1-800-478-3321 ext. 6030
or 907-677-2232
907-677-7502
EMAIL: [email protected]
Write:
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us and we’ll put you on the mailing list.
Copies of the Messener will be available at your local health clinic,
Tribal office and other YKHC locations in the villages and Bethel.
Messenger Editor,
Public Relations Dept.
P.O. Box 528
Bethel, Alaska 99559
Volume X No. 7 • July 15, 2005
Bethel student donates $202 to McCann Treatment Center
5
“T
his is the first time that the McCann
Treatment Center has ever received a
contribution to its education program,” said
Steve OʼBrien, MTCʼs Senior Inhalant Educator.
“We are very grateful.”
Christopher Liu, a student at Bethel Regional High School
and son of Chris and Barbara Liu, decided to solicit contributions for
the operation of MTCʼs school program as an independent project
for his school Health Class.
Going door-to-door in the community of Bethel, Liu, age 15,
collected $202 to support the McCann Treatment Center under the
guidance of BRHS teacher Robert Ellsworth. Ellsworth expressed
pride that one of his students would have such a strong interest in
supporting the center.
“We are grateful that Christopher has such a strong commitment
to the community that he would donate his time and energy to help
others,” said OʼBrien. “His contribution will be spent on much
needed educational supplies.”
Established in 2001, the McCann Treatment Center specializes in
providing care for youths who have developed problems with inhalants, but also serves youth with emotional and behavioral issues.
Steve accepts a donation check from Christopher Liu for the McCann
Center.
For more information about the MTC, contact:
Steve O’Brien, McCann Treatment Center, Senior
Inhalant Educator — 543-6812
Yuut Elitaurviat graduates first 13 workers
“I would hire anyone of these
guys any day.”
—Jim OʼNeill, high school
shop teacher.
The YE construction worker graduates proudly show off
their certificates. “The whole goal of YE is so that Yuut
graduates can take those jobs that are out there,” said
Carlton Kuhns, Executive Director of Yuut Elitnaurviat.
Story and photo by Naomi Klouda, Tundra Drums Editor
O
n June 17, 2005, the first class of construction workers graduated from the
new Yuut Elitnaurviatʼs (YE) Construction Trades center, enabling them to
enter an apprenticeship program that puts them on a job.
Graduates from YE include Leemon Carl and John Carl of Kipnuk, Walter
Springer and Simeon Williams of Hooper Bay, Allen Evon of Kwethluk, Michael
Berlin of Kasigluk, and Bethelʼs Ian Smith, Doug Foss, Dario Sanchez-Notti,
Dustin Anaruk, Misha Demantle, Anthony Shield and Kevin Kernak.
The graduates were taught by Mike Tucker from the Alaska Works Partnership,
an organization that helps fund and train construction workers, and Jim OʼNeill, a
local high school shop teacher.
“These guys were a joy to teach because they wanted to learn and thatʼs the
key,” said OʼNeill. “I would hire anyone of these guys any day.”
Gene Peltola, YKHCʼs President & CEO and also President of the YE Board,
told the graduates during the ceremony that they are setting the tone for the future
of the program. “Itʼs important to apply yourselves and make motivated attempts
to always show up on time,” he said, referring to their next segment of training—
an on-the-job apprenticeship program.
YE is an innovative program that seeks to address a full scope of workforce
issues through vocational training, in response to the inability of Y-K Delta residents to fill local, available jobs due to the lack of job skills. When completed, YE
will have a variety of training opportunities such as in health sciences, childcare
development, and construction journeyman jobs.
YE is a partnership of nine organizations in Bethel, including AVCP, AVCP
Housing, Calista, Army National Guard, City of Bethel, LKSD, Coastal Villages
Region Fund, KuC, and YKHC.
6
T
Hospital Community Relations
he Hospital Community Relations
(Ciuniuristet) Department has
moved to the front of the hospital where
they are more visible to our patients,
visitors and staff.
Community Relations personnel are there to
Greetings From...
Hospital Community Relations staff: Isabelle Oscar, John Mojin and Juanita
Treat.
assist patients, provide information and take customer
comments.
They also provide interpreting services for our Yupʼik
speaking patients when a provider or staff requests their
help. They are an excellent resource for everyone and
work closely with patients, providers and staff to assist in
YKHCʼs mission to achieve excellent health.
The department is staffed 11 hours a day, Monday
through Friday, from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. Their phone
number is 543-6350. One staff member is on-call after
hours, week-ends and holidays to provide interpreting
services to inpatients and emergency department patients.
“Working Together to Achieve Excellent Health”
What our mission means to me
W
by Debi Olick, Health Education Dept.
hat exactly is “Working in all ages and everyone has a job to
ing together to achieve
do. Everyone is responsible for different
excellent health?” The
types of chores. Some people go out fishfirst thing that comes to ing, some bring up the fish, pack water
my mind are all the dif- to clean the fish and to make essuluunaq
ferent departments within the Yukon-Kuswhile others dig pits to make tepa or for
kokwim Health Corporation.
the gut pile. During or after de-heading and
It is very true that all the different depart- gutting the fish, some people hang salmon
ments need to work together to make a dif- roe to dry. Others hang fish slabs and others
ference with the residents of the YK Delta,
take care of feeding the “crew.”
but I believe that “together” includes all
Work isnʼt done yet when the fish is
that is within the YK Delta.
This would include the staff and
“Think of it like fishcamp. There are
beneficiaries of YKHC and all the
different people ranging in all ages
different entities within a village—
Tribal councils, schools and school
and everyone has a job to do.”
districts, Multi-Disciplinary Teams
or Community Wellness Teams,
the different faith communities,
hanging to dry on the drying rack. Next
Head Starts or Tumkanka Programs, the
comes cleaning the equipment you used so
airline companies that fly into the villages
it will be ready for the next batch of fish.
with supplies, foods, and medicine, the
Then, depending on the weather, you need
Native and Corporation stores, individual
to make sure that the fish you hung to dry
businesses—the list can go on and on.
are drying well and are not being ruined by
We all need to work together to get
the flies or the birds. When the fish are dry
everything good in life. Think of it like
enough there comes the task of smoking
fishcamp. There are different people rang-
the fish. Someone has to gather and store
dry wood for fire starters and for use on
the days that are wet from rain and drizzle.
They also need to get “wet” wood for
smoking the fish, to give it flavor. Drying
time depends on weather, type of fish, how
thick the fish is cut, and if you are keeping
up with the smoking.
With everyone working together, we
can reap the rewards of working hard and
being healthy—mentally, physically, spiritually, emotionally, and socially. In this
example, the reward is not just having fish
put away for the winter, it also includes
living a healthy lifestyle by working
together, eating healthy native foods, being
physically active, and keeping in mind that
everything has spirit.
Healthy living shouldnʼt occur only at
fishcamp. You can live a healthy lifestyle
year-round, not just in the summer. Everyone in the family and the community has
something to contribute. With more people
envisioning the same goals, the better the
outcome, if everyone does his or her part.
This is what “Working Together to Achieve
Excellent Health” means to me.
Volume X No. 7 • July 15, 2005
Rural Providers make themselves at home in Bethel
7
A
t the Bethel National Guard Armory, people from all over
amazingly helpful crew and really carried our youth track.”
Alaska who help other people become free of substance misuse
The cadets never once hesitated when asked to help and volunlistened intently to their peers, speakers and presenters.
teered without being asked when there was work to be done, said
This was the 21st annual Rural Providersʼ Conference (RPC), coRose Henderson, one of the co-coordinators of the RPC. “They even
hosted this year by RurALCAP and YKHC, with grant support from
learned how to Eskimo Dance and learned the song that went with
the State Division of Behavioral Health. It was held June 6–10 in
the dance.”
Bethel.
Later, Todd Henderson, Roseʼs husband, took them out fishing,
Each morning participants met in general session first and then
three cadets at a time, taking about eight hours to do that. In the end,
dispersed into smaller units. “The 2005 RPC held here in Bethel
they caught four kings which were brought to the Culture Camp,
was a huge success,” said Wally Richardson, one of the eventʼs main where Henderson taught them how to cut and barbecue the fish for
coordinators.
dinner.
“It certainly couldnʼt have hapHenderson said YKHCʼs Housing
The weeklong event was held to help
pened without the support from the
Maintenance crew headed by Greg
Kilbuck School, the National Guard
McIntyre pitched in and helped in
substance abuse providers find support
Armory, and the Bethel Moravian
a huge way. “They set up the entire
Church, as well as, all the volunteers
in each other and elsewhere in rural
campground for the Culture Camp. I
and presenters,” Richardson added.
feel that the conference went very well.
Alaska, which has some of the highest
The weeklong event was held to
As with every conference, we had our
help substance abuse providers find
glitches; but with the help of the Housrates of alcoholism, substance abuse
support in each other and elsewhere
ing team, it went very smoothly.”
in rural Alaska, which has some
and other chemical misuse in the nation.
Later, the Hendersons brought the
of the highest rates of alcoholism,
cadets to their fish camp, to show them
substance abuse and other chemical
what one looks like. But when the
misuse in the nation.
cadets saw how the spring ice had torn
The RPC hosted five keynote speakers, one of whom was Mike
up the Henderson camp during break-up, they rolled up their sleeves
Williams of Akiak. On June 7, Williams gave a testimony about
and began to rebuild the camp. “They put up the drying racks, cuthis work as a Sobriety Movement advocate using his dog team as a
ting table roof, and put up the mosquito net tent,” Henderson said.
vehicle to get across to people in Alaska.
Memorable moments
Williams gave an encouraging message about developing strong
Joe Green, a counselor at the PATC, said one of the participants
families in rural Alaska. “Donʼt leave here feeling good and do nothwas a Jamaican who attended RPCs for three years so far, and this
ing when you get home; reach out to your peers and families. Help
one in Bethel was his best one yet. “It was due to the traditional
them learn how to battle against alcohol,” he said toward the end of
value aspect of the gathering,” Green said. “The Jamaican went
his speech.
drifting for salmon and took part by helping to set and pull in the
John and Theresa Pingayak of Chevak, who carried a great deal of
net.”
leadership through the week, keynoted on Tuesday with Mike WilAnother person going drifting was presenter Pat Franks. “To him
liams and led general sessions on Wednesday and Thursday.
this was the highlight of the RPC,” added Green. “There were also
The main keynote was Edgar Blatchford, Commissioner of
people from up north, Fairbanks, and down south that said the driftDepartment of Commerce, Community and Economic Development,
ing experience was their first and that theyʼll never forget it.”
who also served as Commissioner of the Department of Community
Green said he and his guests caught a total of 11 king salmon that
and Regional Affairs in 1990-1994 under Gov. Walter J. Hickel.
went to the fish-cutting demonstration at the Culture Camp, and the
Youths shine at RPC
community potluck where everyone got to eat some of the salmon.
Special appearances were made by the Dragon Slayers, a group
“Iʼd like to thank Joe Green, Wilson Green and the rest of the
of youths who volunteer as fire firefighters in Aniak. Other special
PATC Team for all their help,” said Mike Bricker, Clinical Director
appearances included the Blood Family, a rap music team from
of YKHCʼs Substance Abuse Services. “Thanks especially to the
Scammon Bay, and the BRHS JROTC drill team, who wowed the
clients from PATC and the Therapeutic Court Program who donated
audience with their national championship moves. The younger but
their time and talent to the Conference.”
energetic JROTC step team also performed magnificiently.
Julia Kanuk, a Behavioral Health Services Coordinator, attended
A surprise appearance at the RPC, at least to those in Bethel, were many of the activities during the RPC. “I liked the workshops, enterthe 18 Cadets from the Alaska Military Youth Academy of Ft. Richtainment, and the guest speakers,” she said. “The committees that
ardson in Anchorage. They attended classes during the conference
put this on did a very good job, especially the staff from YKHC. I
and helped out wherever a hand was needed.
commend them for their good work and awesome job they did.”
“They attended last year and looked forward to coming again for
the entire year, said RurALCAPʼs Marian Estelle. “They were an
see RPC, p. 11
8
Aeromed Delta Eagles
by John Dickens
They are always ready and proud to serve…
W
hen I think of the vast array of unsung heroes in this great
Delta of ours, there are many groups that stand out. One
particular team that is very near and dear to my heart is
the elite “Aeromed Delta Eagles.” This team of the YKHC
Aeromed Critical Care Flight Paramedics and Grant Aviation Medevac Pilots is now performing around 650 village to Bethel Medevacs
a year.
Using a dedicated Capstone-equipped Cessna 208B Grand Caravan aircraft
rigged with two $40,000 Life Ports, this elite squad is pushing the envelope of
fixed wing Air Ambulance operations, and setting new standards that are gaining notice throughout the country.
The YKHC Aeromed Critical Care Flight Paramedics are some of the best
paramedics I have ever met. These people are extremely experienced lifesavers, who have seen action in some of the toughest EMS arenas in the world!
From the battlefields of Iraq to the mean streets of the Lower 48 “knife and gun
clubs” these folks are the epitome of professional experience and dedicated
compassion. They could go anywhere they want to, but they choose to honor
us by coming up here. One paramedic commutes all the way from Cleveland,
Ohio, on his own funds just to be here!
The paramedics work five days on and 10 days off. The five days that they
are on duty are very demanding; I have seen them up for days at a time! One
paramedic calculated that in a five-day shift he was in the air more than he was
on the ground, flying one mission after another. Delivering babies in flight,
dealing with some of the hardest EMS calls I have ever heard of. On top of all
this they are very nice people who deeply care for their patients and the village
health aides. They enjoy teaching EMS subjects and are a big help in training
the health aides.
On the flying side of this team are the Grant Aviation pilots. They are the
“Best of the Best.” Only the most skilled and experienced pilots are involved in
flying the Air Ambulance. The Medevac pilots are flight instructors and many
are check airmen. They bring a wealth of Alaskan aviation experience and
knowledge to the program. They work closely with the paramedics and often
wind up lending a hand on difficult EMS calls.
The “Delta Eagles” bring Advanced Life Support to the village clinics, helping the village health aides and the doctors at the hospital deliver quality care to
the people of the Delta. In my eight years in the Delta I have watched this team
evolve into one of the best around. In my opinion, the YKHC Aeromed Delta
Eagles are an excellent example of how the YKHC Board and administration
is making sure that “state of the art 21st century health care” is being brought
to the villages of the YK Delta Service Area. I am honored to be involved with
this team and this system.
Next time you see a “Delta Eagle” paramedic or pilot walk by, please shake
their hand.
They could go anywhere they want to, but they have come here to help us.
Use bug dope wisely,
especially on children
I
tʼs summer and itʼs mosquito season, with nosee-ums sure to follow. This
summer, with standing water
everywhere due to spring
flooding, the bugs are out in
force.
Many of us with fishing,
fishcamp, camping and berry
Mosquito bites itch
picking in mind have no
because the insects
choice but to take along the
inject proteins and other
old stand-by: bug dope. And chemicals into your
body when they bite.
much of the dope we buy
contains DEET, or diethylmetatoluamide, in certain percentages, from a few percent up to 100 percent.
But we ask ourselves sometimes, why all the precautions on the stuff, and why use it at all if itʼs that
dangerous?
So then, how safe is DEET?
Well, we are told that if we use bug dope with DEET
according to the directions, it is quite harmless. Most
Public Health agencies including the U.S. Center for
Disease Control (CDC) encourage the use of DEET,
especially with the advent of the West Nile Virus in the
lower ʻ48. But it is dangerous if we use it carelessly.
Here are some facts and precautions with the use of
biting insect repellents containing DEET:
DEET has been associated with seizures and several
cases of toxic encephalopathy (encephalitis) in children, including three deaths, according to the Extension Toxicology Network at Cornell University.
DEET can cause an array of health problems ranging
from dizziness to death. After application to the skin
DEET is absorbed into the bloodstream, and remains
up to several months or more depending on oneʼs ability to detoxify. Side effects may include rashes, skin
eruptions, nausea, dermatitis, scarring, muscle cramps,
irritability, lethargy, cerebral swelling cardio-respiratory arrest, and fatal encephalopathy.
The American Academy of Pediatrics states that
DEET is not considered safe for any child under the
age of 5. Poison Control Centers reported more than
6,700 reactions to insect repellants in 1995, with
4,300 related to children 6 and under. A 26-year-old
man died after using DEET twice according to ABC
news. An 8-year-old boy suffered seizures after being
sprayed twice with DEET. DEET is also toxic to children when it is used in the home by others.
see DEET, p. 9
Volume X No. 7 • July 15, 2005
9
Omega-3 Fats: Lots of Reasons to eat More Fish!
What are the omega-3 fats?
These beneficial fats are in the oil naturally found in fish. The
omega-3 fats, EPA and DHA, play different but equally vital roles
in human health. Though research with omega-3 supplements is
promising, most experts recommend eating more fish rather than
taking supplements.
How do they work?
EPA (Eicosapentaenoic acid)—helps make the platelets in blood
less sticky which in turn could help prevent the build-up of plaque
otherwise leading to a heart attack or stroke.
DHA (Docosahexaenoic acid)—may help stabilize heart rhythm;
potentially important for people recovering from heart attacks. May
help regulate cell membrane functions involved in transmitting signals among brain cells.
What are the potential benefits?
Heart disease control—In Chicagoʼs Western Electric Study (over
2,000 men), the risk of death from heart attack was half the usual
rate among those who ate an average of about 8 ounces of fish (2
servings) a week. Other recent research suggests that just one serving a week of “fattier” fish, like salmon or mackerel, could cut
the chance of cardiac arrest by 50 percent in folks with weakened
hearts.
Rheumatoid arthritis relief
Some patients taking omega-3 supplements report less joint pain
and less morning stiffness. There does not seem to be a benefit with
the more common from of arthritis, osteoarthritis. The American
college of Rheumatology recommends eating fish more often, but is
holding judgment on supplements until more is known about long
term safety.
Healthy Brain function
These fats may be helpful in mood and brain disturbances. For
example, recent research at Purdue University showed that boys
with attention deficit disorder who had lower levels of omega-3 fats
in their brains had more behavior problems. Studies are underway
to see if omega-3 supplements can improve the boyʼs behavior.
It clearly seems to work for some. The researchers advise adding
DEET, from p. 8
Dr. Mohamed Abou-Donia, a research scientist at Duke University Medical Center, whose studies have established a link between
DEET and neurological damage in animals, warns parents in a
recent Environmental News Service article, “Never use insect repellents on infants, and be wary of using them on children in general.
“Never combine insecticides with each other or use them with
other medications. Even so simple a drug as an antihistamine could
interact with DEET to cause toxic side effects. Donʼt spray your
yard for bugs and then take medications. Until we have more data
on potential interactions in humans, safe is better than sorry.”
Alaska Salmon Nutrition
• Alaska Salmon is an excellent source of high quality protein, containing all essential amino acids.
• Salmon is rich in minerals and contains vitamins,
A, D, B6 and B12.
• Salmon is a good source of Vitamin E, a powerful
antioxidant, which lowers the risk of heart disease.
• Salmon is easy to digest and is an excellent food
for everyone, both young and old.
• Alaska Salmon contains Omega-3, oil, which
decreases the risk of coronary heart disease and
certain cancers.
more fish into childrenʼs diets until more is known about the long
term safety of supplements.
Colitis fighter
Bowel diseases such as Chronʼs disease and ulcerative colitis lead
to pain, weight loss, and tremendous suffering. Washington University researchers in St. Louis saw dramatic improvement with fish
oil supplements, including weight gain, less inflammation, and less
need for medications such as prednisone.
Blood triglyceride control
Fish oil supplements may be helpful in lowering blood triglyceride levels in patients with high blood levels.
Cancer fighter
Omega-3s suppress tumor growth in animals. Japanese women
have only a third as much breast cancer as American women.
Heavy use of foods such as fish and soy in the Japanese diet may be
responsible. A recent study of 25 women showed that supplemental
fish oil could change the ratio of fats in breast tissue.
Abstracted from alaska.net/~sean.karin/omega3.htm website with
thanks, for further information please got to The University of Minnesota specialist website.
Meanwhile, state and federal agencies, including the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and CDC, are encouraging the
public to use mosquito repellents containing DEET. Although the
CDC warns parents to avoid applying repellent on children less than
2 years old, the EPA and other state agencies are not giving that caution.
The EPA instead advises, “Do not allow children to handle the
products, and do not apply to childrenʼs hands. When using on children, apply to your own hands and then put it on the child.”
Source: DEET info from Leaflady.org
10
The Thoracic Spine
by Anne Kosacheff, Physical Therapist
T
he thoracic spine runs from the bottom of
the cervical spine (the neck) to the top of
the lumbar spine (the level of the last rib attachment).
It provides attachment sites for the ribs (tulimat) and the
diaphragm. There are 12 thoracic vertebrae (uyaqinrat), one for each
set of ribs. The rib attachments decrease
the mobility of the spine, and increase
the stability of the spine. This is important, as the thoracic spine region houses
the lungs (pugtaun), heart (ircaquq),
stomach (aqsaq / anrutaq) and other
important internal organs.
There is a slight forward curve in
the thoracic spine. This curve is called
kyphosis. It helps to increase the flexibility and strength of the spinal column.
It is important to maintain the curve in
the thoracic spine, but not let it increase
too much. Any significant increase in
thoracic kyphosis will limit your ability
to inhale, compromise your circulation
(ayagviat), can interfere with the digestion process, and will put you at risk for
compression fractures of the vertebral
body. Slumping and slouching can lead
to a habitual increase in the thoracic
kyphosis. Remember to sit and stand tall!
As found in the cervical spine, there
are two facet joints between each pair of
vertebrae in the thoracic spine. The ribs
attach just lateral to (or outside) these facet joints. The addition of
the rib articulation requires the presence of more ligaments. Often,
these ligaments are sprained during falls or sudden movements (like
swinging a bat, or a motor vehicle accident). This can result in a rib
that “pops out,” or “gets stuck.” A very painful problem, but one that
can be fixed with simple exercises if treated in the early stages.
Many people have some muscle stiffness (qeluluni) in the thoracic
spine, as it can be difficult and uncomfortable to stretch the connective tissue in this region. It is important for the mobility of the shoulders (tusek) to maintain the mobility in the thoracic spine, as there
are many muscles (yualuq) that connect the shoulder to the thoracic
spine. The primary muscles are the rhomboids, the latisimus dorsi,
the middle and lower trapezius.
Stiffness in the thoracic spine can
also transmit pain (akngiagurrluni) and
dysfunction into the neck. Although the
thoracic spine has less mobility than the
cervical spine, it is important the motion
available in the thoracic spine is maintained. Otherwise, the cervical spine has
to compensate for the limitations. This
can cause chronic overuse and irritation
in the joints of the cervical spine, setting
you up for arthritis, nerve impingement or
other chronic problems.
Along each side of the thoracic spine
run the paraspinals, a group of muscles
up to 2.5 inches thick. These muscles
run along the length of the spine, some
running for 1-2 levels, others running up
to 7 or 8 levels (one level is the distance
from one vertebrae to the next). These
muscles can get stiff and tight if they are
not stretched or released regularly. This
is a problem associated with computer
use, heavy manual labor, and most activities that require static positioning for an
extended time – pekcunani (knitting, carving, etc).
Be sure to read next monthʼs column to discover easy exercises
and stretches to maintain the health and mobility of your thoracic
spine!
Volume X No. 7 • July 15, 2005
11
RPC, from p. 7
Visiting around
The RPC hosted some 28 workshops, including one that focused on Culturally
Appropriate Approaches to Treatment of Co-Occurring Disorders. Kat McElroy, a
Clinical Supervisor at Nenanaʼs treatment center, shared details of a program called
the “Visiting Around” concept, used to reach people in her community.
In this program, she and her staff visit people in their homes or places other than
the workplace. “The walls of our offices are barriers,” she said, in reference to
the fact that people come to them only when they are in trouble or referred by the
courts.
McElroy said that the visiting program hopes to strengthen ties within her community and create a way to have people more connected. “We also hope to establish some early warning system before the residents get into trouble,” she said.
“This lets us know whatʼs happening with people before itʼs too late for them.”
The beauty of the theme
Throughout the RPC, many actitivities and events took place, such as the Youth
Track with Earl Keggulluk Polk, Culture Camp, where locals shared their traditional knowledge, and Culture Share, where traditional activities took place, such
as Eskimo Dance. There were AA meetings, talking circles, and modern dances,
and participants lacked time to be everywhere.
The “beauty” of this yearʼs Rural Providersʼ Conference was that it was sponsored and supported by so many of our local agencies in Bethel, said Liz Sunnyboy, YKHCʼs Behavioral Health Coordinator. “The theme ʻStrong Families—Yesterday, Today and Tomorrowʼ was selected by the Bethel planning committee, and
throughout the week, most of the activities, workshops and general sessions kept
reflecting back to this theme.”
As one example, Sunnyboy states it was greatly appreciated by most YKHCʼs
RPC planners when they were given permission to attend the funeral services of a
friend and co-worker, Balassia “Balla” Andrew, who used to work at Phillips Ayagnirvik (PATC) but recently passed away, and to have the feast combined with the
RPC potluck.
Sunnyboy said she believed most participants were refreshed and gained valuable information from the RPC to bring back to their families and communities to
build and support strong families.
Not the end
As quickly as it began, the hustle and bustle of the RPC ended at noon on Friday,
June 10. Ed Peele, Earl Keggulluk Polk, Jennifer Young, and the Pingayaks conducted the closing with the Traditional Staking Ceremony, where participants are
provided the opportunity to recommit to their sobriety and/or to other personal
issues in their lives.
Over 300 people attended the RPC in Bethel, according to Richardson. “They
all look forward to next year,” she said. “Thank you to Sugar Henderson for all of
her invaluable assistance and to the local committee members who attended planning meetings and teleconferences in the last six months. Patience and hard work
always pays off.”
This yearʼs RPC sponsors included YKHC, AVCP, BNC, ONC, Eddie Hoffman Senior Center, Calista, Calista Elders Council, First Alaskans Institute, UUI,
Sea Lion Corp., GCI, and the National Guard. From the many members, YKHCʼs
planners included Richardson and Henderson as co-coordinators, and Green, Mike
Bricker, Sunnyboy and Ray Watson as committee members. Marian Estelle from
RurALCAP served as Facilitator of the Planning Committee.
This yearʼs conference is the first of two in Bethel, following the tradition that
the RPC is held for two years in a sponsoring community.
“I look forward to seeing everyone back in 2006,” said Richardson.
Drug Recalls
I
f you are someone who watches TV or reads
magazines, you have probably seen many advertisements for prescription and over-the-counter
medications. These medications are used by many
people for a variety of reasons. If used correctly,
medications can be an added benefit to your health,
but at times, they could cause health concerns. If
problems do arise with medications, the Food and
Drug Administration (FDA) may request a recall.
If you are like many people, you are probably
wondering what a drug recall is, and most importantly, what to do if a medication you are taking is
recalled. The definition for a recall is an action taken
by the FDA to remove a product from the market.
There are three main classes of recalls. The most
serious recall is referred to as a Class I recall. Class
I recalls are issued to products that could cause
danger, serious health problems, or death. An example would be drugs used to treat life-threatening
conditions. Class II recalls are for products that contain less serious health consequences and have only
temporary health problems. A drug that is understrength is an example of a potential Class II recall.
Although less serious, Class III recalls violate FDA
policies, and are used for products that are unlikely
to cause any adverse health reactions. Labels, color,
and leaks could all be causes of Class III recalls.
If you think the medication you are taking has
been recalled, continue taking it until you contact
your physician or pharmacist. Suddenly stopping
your medication could be harmful to your health.
Your physician or pharmacist will verify that the
medication has indeed been recalled and be able to
provide you with a suitable replacement or alternative.
For further information regarding
drug recalls you can access
www.recalls.gov or www.fda.
gov. If you have any questions, be
sure to contact your physician or
pharmacists.
Volume X No. 7 • July 15, 2005
YK Delta gets new life-saving technology
By John Dickens, Senior EMS Instructor
R
ecently, YKHC was awarded a grant
of eight Samaritan-brand Automated
External Defibrillators (AED), also called
Public Access Defibrillators (PAD). One of
these was placed in the YKHC Community
Health Services Building, on the first floor
across from the elevators. The other seven
will be placed throughout the YK Delta in
locations to be determined.
With the advent of AEDs, a growing
movement for PADs has swept across the
nation, born of the idea that readily accessible AEDs can drastically improve the survival rates of persons afflicted with sudden
cardiac arrests.
AEDs are becoming increasingly available for responders and in public places.
For instance, when you fly on an airliner
with more than 30 seats, it must by law have
an AED aboard and people who can use
it operate it. In fact, Alaska Airlines flight
attendants now have several documented
saves.
Thereʼs also a law requiring all federal
buildings to have AEDs, and a new law
will eventually require all schools which
receive federal funding to have AEDs. Even
OSHA has made it a recommendation for
workplace safety, and many health corporations in Alaska now have them in their rural
clinics.
In an emergency, often the first responders
are law enforcement. The National Sheriffs
Association estimates that 10 percent of all
the police vehicles in the USA now have an
AED onboard. Our own Alaska State Troopers and VPSOs are getting them as well.
Locally, the Bethel Police Department is
installing them on their patrol vehicles.
Recently, the Metro-Dade (Miami, FL)
Police put them in all their patrol vehicles,
and in one year, they doubled the survival
rate of cardiac arrest victims in their area.
Yukon-Kuskokwim Health Corporation
P.O. Box 528
Bethel, Alaska 99559
907-543-6000
The National Fire Protection Association
has made it a goal that all fire trucks in the
U.S. will have AEDs.
For the best chance of survival, the key
issue is time. Good CPR must be done as
soon as the victim collapses and an AED
must be applied within three to five minutes
of the sudden cardiac arrest.
YKHC EMS is offering training to use
the PAD with their CPR courses. If you are
currently a certified AHA – BLS provider
working in the CHSB, please contact Jeff
Hollabaugh at extension 6080 for training
on the model of AED we have.
CPR/AED training is available for
employees as needed. Please call the EMS
department to reserve your space in a class.
Editorʼs Note: Tom Fazzini and Fred
Watson, formerly with YKHCʼs EMS/IC,
along with John Dickens and Jeff Hollabaugh, pursued a grant that made this lifesaving technology locally available. Thank
you, gentlemen!
Non -Profit Org.
US Postage
PAID
Anchorage, AK
Permit # 537