At Community Access Network, we believe that quality care is compassionate care. That’s why we’re always striving to listen to our community and address health concerns as they arise. Over the last several years, our community has banded together in the midst of extraordinarily challenging circumstances. We want our Lynchburg patients and friends to feel empowered and informed as we continue to navigate the COVID-19 pandemic and other trending health topics. Here are some of the topics we plan to keep an eye on throughout 2022.
COVID-19: An Update on Omnicron and Our Commitment to You
Viruses have a tendency to mutate over time, and the Omnicron strain is one of the more recent COVID-19 variants scientists are researching. Since COVID-19 is a type of coronavirus, it’s highly susceptible to adapting. Fortunately, the vaccine should still provide meaningful protection against Omicron and other variants, especially with a booster shot. Other safety precautions like frequently washing hands and wearing a mask can also decrease the likelihood of contracting COVID-19.
We will continue to stay informed of how the virus is impacting our community. As of January 2022, the Omnicron strain is not circulating throughout our service area. We encourage all of our community members to receive the vaccine. We operate a free vaccine clinic every Thursday, and we are now assisting local organizations with setting up mobile vaccine clinics. If you have any questions about COVID-19 and the vaccine, please give us a call.
Nutrition and Wellness
Topics related to nutrition and wellness are always hot, even more so around this time of the year. There’s so much information to wade through when it comes to maintaining a balanced lifestyle. Fortunately, this is something we cover a lot on our blog! We invite you to read some of our favorite posts about nutrition, including our latest one that’s all about eating well on a budget.
- A Modern Look at Nutrition
- 13 Foods That Boost Immunity
- Tips for Talking to Your Child about Healthy Nutrition
- All about Hydration
Mental Health
Being mentally healthy is just as important as being physically healthy. Fortunately, mental health is starting to become more common to talk about. As the stigma around topics like depression, anxiety, and more decreases, it becomes a little bit easier for our community members to seek help. There is no shame in meeting with someone to discuss options for managing these kinds of conditions, just like there is no shame in meeting with a provider for a physical condition. Our team of specialists would love to help develop a plan if you’re looking to make 2022 your most mentally healthy year yet.
Access to Healthcare
We believe everyone has a right to quality, affordable healthcare. Unfortunately, sometimes barriers can make it difficult to navigate our healthcare system. At Community Access Network, we do what we can to help our patients receive care by providing educational resources and even by reducing fees for eligible services. We offer affordable options for general care, pediatrics, ophthalmology, and even dental care. We will continue to expand our service lines so we can better address the unique needs of the Lynchburg community.
Virtual Care
While virtual visits were already starting to trend, the COVID-19 pandemic drastically increased the popularity of virtual appointments. Telemedicine is a billion-dollar industry in the United States, and it’s likely going to continue to expand. Patients are now able to visit with providers in real time via video conference. Online portals are also becoming more and more common, where patients can directly message providers, request prescription refills, and more. Telehealth makes it easier for patients to access the care they need when they need it.
We’re Here to Help!
While this list is by no means exhaustive, we know that our patients may have questions about these trending health topics–and we’re here to answer them. Call us today to schedule an appointment.