Many people may skip annual checkups because they feel healthy or assume there is no reason to see a doctor unless something feels wrong. But routine primary care visits often uncover health concerns long before symptoms become obvious. [caption id="attachment_60340" align="alignleft" width="250"] Austin Hickok, PA-C, family medicine, Beacon Portage Family...
When something unexpected happens during a camping trip whether it’s a fall, a burn or a child who suddenly isn’t feeling well, one of the first questions families ask is where to go for care. Should you head to urgent care, or go straight to the emergency department? “Knowing where to go ahead of...
Whether it’s a pool at day camp, a lake at overnight camp or a weekend swim, water is a big part of summer. But with more time in the water comes a common issue urgent care providers see every year: swimmer’s ear. [caption id="attachment_60225" align="alignleft" width="306"] Dr. David Brown, Beacon Kalamazoo...
Campfires are a highlight of many summer experiences whether it’s roasting marshmallows at overnight camp, gathering at day camp or relaxing with family at a campsite. They’re also one of the most common sources of injury during camping season. [caption id="attachment_60220" align="alignleft" width="223"] Rachel Kratzer, NP, MedPoint Urgent Care Main Street[/caption] “Burns related to...
[caption id="attachment_60214" align="alignleft" width="242"] Sara Golden, NP, MedPoint Urgent Care Goshen[/caption] Summer activities often mean long days outside, shared meals and changes in routine whether kids are at day camp, overnight camp or families are spending time camping together. While these experiences are a highlight of the season,...
Summer often brings more time outdoors, family vacations and packed activity schedules. But it can also bring coughing, congestion, headaches and fatigue — symptoms that can leave families wondering what is actually causing them. Is it seasonal allergies? Smoke or poor air quality? A summer cold? In many cases, the symptoms overlap enough...
For many families, summer brings a welcome break from busy school schedules. Bedtimes stretch a little later, routines loosen and kids have more freedom to play, explore and just be kids. But along with that flexibility often comes a familiar set of parent questions: Will my child fall behind...
Time in the sun is part of nearly every summer activity, but too much exposure can lead to more than just a temporary burn. [caption id="attachment_60075" align="alignleft" width="232"] Jaclyn Stoddard, PA-C[/caption] “Sunburns are very common this time of year, especially for kids who are outside for long stretches,” said Jaclyn Stoddard, PA-C, family medicine physician...
The communication gap parents don’t always see For many families, sending a child to camp whether for the day or overnight is an exciting part of summer. It’s also a time when parents rely on their child to communicate when something isn’t right. The challenge is, kids don’t always speak up. [caption id="attachment_60069" align="alignleft" width="284"] Sara...
Start with safety before kids get in the water From backyard pools to summer lake trips, water is a big part of family fun during the summer. But it also comes with serious risks. [caption id="attachment_60045" align="alignleft" width="254"] Dr. Sarah O'Connor, Beacon Medical Group Pediatrics Bristol Street[/caption] “Drowning...
