Health Advocacy Archives - Axis Community Health

Axis Partners with Sutter Health For Mobile Breast Cancer Screenings

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, a time dedicated to raising awareness about the importance of early detection and treatment of breast cancer. Regular screenings, such as mammograms, play a crucial role in catching breast cancer early, when it is most treatable. This can make a significant difference in the lives of many women.

In an exciting development, Axis Community Health teamed up with Sutter Health to offer mammograms to Axis patients through a mobile unit. This initiative aimed to make these essential screenings more accessible to our community, especially those who might find it challenging to visit traditional healthcare facilities.

It is our hope that in partnering with Sutter, we can continue to increase our breast cancer screening rates. According to the 2023 Uniform Data System (UDS), Axis’s breast cancer screening rate is an impressive 59.1%. This is significantly higher than both the state average of 46.9% and the national average of 45.3%. These numbers highlight the success of Axis’s efforts and the importance of making healthcare services more accessible.

Regular mammograms are recommended for women aged 40 and above, although those at higher risk may need to start earlier or have more frequent screenings. Early detection through these screenings can lead to less aggressive treatments and better survival rates, making them a vital part of women’s health.

The collaboration between Axis and Sutter Health is a fantastic example of how healthcare providers can work together to improve public health. By bringing mammograms directly to the community, they are breaking down barriers and ensuring that more patients have the opportunity to benefit from early detection.

Thank you to Sutter Health for providing this incredible resource to our patients! We look forward to future partnerships and continuing to make a positive impact on our community’s health together.

Sutter Health Supports Axis Bridge MHUC Program

In a recent feature on their news website, Vitals, Sutter Health showcased the remarkable efforts of Axis Community Health in improving access to mental health services. The article, titled “Breaking the Silence: How One Health System is Improving Access to Mental Health Services,” delves into the significant strides made by Axis in addressing mental health needs in the Tri-Valley area.

The piece highlighted our Axis Bridge Mental Health Urgent Care Program, that provides free, critical mental health treatment to adults and children aged 5 and older who reside in Dublin, Livermore, and Pleasanton. This program, supported by a substantial $300,000 investment from Sutter Health, offers crisis intervention, stabilization, care management, and counseling services, regardless of a patient’s insurance status or ability to pay.

Theresa Rizzo, Psy.D., Axis’s Administrative Director of Integrated Behavioral Health (pictured above speaking to a patient), and other key members of the Axis team were interviewed for the article. They shared insights into the program’s success and the ongoing need for accessible mental health care.

Axis’s CEO, Liz Perez-Howe, expressed deep gratitude for Sutter Health’s partnership and support. She emphasized how the Axis Bridge program has provided urgent mental health support to over 1,000 individuals this year alone, significantly reducing hospitalization rates and offering hope and healing to those in need.

Thank you to Sutter Health for their continued support of Axis! By bringing mental health services directly to the community, we are breaking down barriers and ensuring that more people have access to the care they need.

To see the article on Vitals, click here.

Axis Now Offering Yumlish to Eligible Patients

The Yumlish Diabetes Prevention Program is a comprehensive, evidence-based initiative aimed at preventing Type 2 Diabetes among high-risk individuals. The program focuses on lifestyle changes, including healthy eating, physical activity, and behavioral support, to help participants reduce their risk of developing diabetes.

This program features several components to assist patients on their journey to better health:

Nutrition Education: Participants learn about balanced diets, portion control, and making healthier food choices. The program emphasizes culturally relevant dietary advice, making it easier for individuals to incorporate these changes into their daily lives.

Physical Activity: Regular exercise is a cornerstone of diabetes prevention. The program encourages participants to engage in physical activities that they enjoy and can sustain long-term, such as walking, dancing, or swimming.

Behavioral Support: Changing habits can be challenging, but with the right support, it becomes more manageable. The program offers group sessions and one-on-one coaching to help participants stay motivated and overcome obstacles.

Monitoring and Feedback: Regular check-ins and progress tracking help participants stay on course. This ongoing support ensures that individuals are making steady progress towards their health goals.

500 Axis patients will be enrolled into this first cohort. To be eligible for this program, Axis patients must have Alameda Alliance, be 18 years or older, overweight, and have a history of pre-diabetes, gestational diabetes, or hypertension. Services are offered in English and Spanish. Together, we can take proactive steps towards a healthier, diabetes-free future!

To learn more about Yumlish, please visit: https://yumlish.com/personalized-nutrition-therapy-in-diabetes-management/

Axis MH Interns Celebrate Milestone in Patient Care

From L to R: Axis’s Mental Health Interns – Caitlin Valdez, Ciara Skye, David Goldner, Anita Sayani, Natalie Kiff (Director of Intern and School Programs), and Bhavna Goel

Earlier this month, Axis’s Mental Health Interns celebrated meeting the Follow-Up After Emergency Department Visit for Mental Illness (FUM) quality measure. Community Health Centers meet this measure when patients receive a follow-up appointment with their primary care provider within 7-30 days of leaving the emergency department for a mental health concern.

Research suggests that follow-up/continuous care for people with mental illness is linked to fewer repeat ED visits, improved physical and mental function, and increased compliance with follow-up instructions. Offering continuous care is particularly crucial in mental health care for several reasons:

Prevention of Relapse: Continuous care helps in monitoring patients regularly, which can prevent relapses or the worsening of mental health conditions. Regular follow-ups ensure that any emerging issues are addressed promptly.

Consistency in Treatment: Patients benefit from a consistent treatment plan that evolves with their needs. This consistency helps in building trust between patients and healthcare providers, making patients more likely to adhere to their treatment plans.

Holistic Health Management: Continuous care integrates various aspects of a patient’s health, including physical, mental, and emotional well-being. This holistic approach ensures that all factors contributing to a patient’s health are considered and managed effectively.

This milestone highlights the dedication of Axis’s team to treat our patients’ whole-person health and to improve patient health outcomes. Kudos to the MH Interns for all their hard work in ensuring our patients receive the care they need to thrive!

Our Community Health Center Journey: From Humble Beginnings to Vital Healthcare Services

As we celebrate National Health Center Week, we’re filled with gratitude for the amazing journey Axis Community Health has taken. From our humble beginnings in 1972, we’ve grown into a vital part of our community’s healthcare system, driven by dedication, progress, and a deep commitment to those we serve.

Axis Community Health started with a simple mission: to provide pediatric care to low-income children. Our founders saw a critical need and, with compassion and determination, laid the groundwork for what would become a key healthcare provider in our area. Over the years, we’ve expanded our services to include adult medical care, women’s health, dental care, and mental health services, meeting the diverse needs of our community.

“As long as you are busy, you’re happy” –Axis’s first Director, Birdie Bianchi

1972 Health Care Concerns Committee incorporates as a non-profit agency

Our history highlights the ongoing demand for accessible, high-quality healthcare. Each milestone has been fueled by the belief that everyone deserves the chance to live a healthy, fulfilling life. From our early days on Spring Street to our extensive facilities today, our growth mirrors the broader development of community health centers nationwide. As a Federally Qualified Health Center, we are proud to be a fundamental healthcare resource for many families.

But our journey doesn’t stop here. We are committed to continually adapting to the evolving needs of our community. With new clinics, expanded services, and innovative programs, Axis Community Health strives to make healthcare accessible to all. We recognize the powerful impact comprehensive healthcare has on individuals and communities, fostering resilience and well-being.

Liz Perez-Howe (left) and Former Axis CEO Sue Compton (right) with the first patient (middle) to be served at the W. Las Positas clinic in Pleasanton

The pioneering efforts of healthcare trailblazers have set a strong foundation, and we are honored to build upon it. Our growth isn’t just about numbers; it’s about enhancing our impact and ensuring our services reach those who need them most. Thanks to the Affordable Care Act, we’ve increased our patient base by 40%, underscoring the critical need for holistic healthcare.

As we reflect on our achievements, we’re also aware of the challenges that remain. More than 120 million Americans still lack access to affordable healthcare, highlighting the urgent need to advance community health centers. We are committed to addressing this gap.

Together, we don’t just provide healthcare; we nurture hope, foster well-being, and build a healthier future. For this incredible privilege, we are forever grateful. This National Health Center Week, let’s celebrate our shared journey and the bright future ahead.

Thank you for being a part of our story.

Warmly,

Liz Perez-Howe

CEO, Axis Community Health

Axis’s Age Well Center: A New Era of Elder Care

Contributed by Amit Pabla | Chief Operating Officer

In response to the rapidly growing population of adults aged 65 and older in our community — now comprising 21% of our total patient population — Axis Community Health is proud to announce the launch of our Age Well Center! Located at our 4361 Railroad Avenue location in Pleasanton, our new value-based care model is designed to provide comprehensive and personalized healthcare for our senior community.

At the heart of the Age Well Center is a dedicated care team consisting of a primary care physician, a lead medical assistant (MA), and an MA care coordinator. This collaborative approach ensures that our patients receive the highest quality of care tailored to their unique needs. The MA care coordinator will play a crucial role by efficiently and effectively documenting appointments, which allows for longer, more detailed patient visits. This ensures no aspect of their health is overlooked.

A standout feature of the center is our partnership with Vigilance Health which will enroll Medicare-eligible seniors into their Chronic Care Management program. Through this initiative, patients will benefit from one to two 20-minute phone calls per month with a registered nurse (RN). The RN will develop a personalized care plan, provide health education, reconcile medications, provide necessary screenings, and provide additional navigation services to support ongoing health and wellness.

Axis is also excited to announce that in early 2025, we will be hosting Senior Luncheons. During these luncheons, patients can enjoy a nutritious meal while learning about Medicare benefits, Axis services and resources, and the Chronic Care Management program. These luncheons also offer opportunities for recreational activities and socializing, fostering a sense of community and well-being.

Our goal is to achieve healthier outcomes for our older adult population, enabling them to age gracefully within their communities. By focusing on reducing hospital readmissions, avoiding unnecessary ER visits, and improving their overall mental health, we aim to enhance our senior community’s quality of life!

Mental Health Awareness for BIPOC Communities

Correction: In an earlier version of this article, it stated that June was BIPOC Mental Health Awareness Month

July is BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, and People of Color) Mental Health Awareness Month. Mental health is a critical component of overall well-being, yet it remains a largely stigmatized and neglected aspect of healthcare, particularly within historically marginalized communities. As a Community Health Center, we are dedicated to serving diverse populations. Axis recognizes the unique challenges faced by BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, and People of Color) communities in accessing mental health services. Providing culturally responsive care and raising awareness are essential in addressing these disparities and fostering healthier, more resilient communities. BIPOC communities often encounter numerous barriers to mental health care, including:

Stigma and Cultural Beliefs: Often times mental health issues are viewed through a lens of stigma, shame, and misunderstanding. This can discourage BIPOC individuals from seeking help, fearing judgment or being ostracized from their community. To help combat these fears, Axis works within our community to establish trust so that our patients feel supported in getting the care they need. We prioritize building long-term relationships with our patients, fostering an environment where they feel safe and valued.

Language and Communication Barriers: Effective mental health care relies heavily on clear communication between providers and patients. For non-English-speaking individuals or those with limited English proficiency, accessing care may be daunting and fraught with misunderstandings. We actively engage with community leaders and organizations to spread awareness about the importance of mental health. At Axis, we offer interpretation and translation services to ensure that language barriers do not hinder access to care. Bilingual staff and translated educational materials help patients navigate the healthcare system more effectively.

Economic Disparities: BIPOC communities are disproportionately affected by poverty compared to white populations. This may limit their ability to afford mental health services and medications. By offering sliding scale fees and assisting with insurance enrollment, Axis makes mental health services more accessible. We also collaborate with local agencies to provide additional support and resources.

By continuing to prioritize mental health awareness, reducing stigma, and providing accessible, culturally competent care, we can make significant strides in improving mental health outcomes for everyone. To further serve our community, Axis also offers a Mental Health Urgent Care program called Axis Bridge, which is available to all community members ages 5 and up. Please visit https://axishealth.org/axis-bridge-mhuc/ for more information.

For more information Axis’s complete mental health services, please visit our website at https://axishealth.org/mental-health/

Celebrating Pride Month with a Focus on LGBTQ+ Health Awareness

Community Health Centers play a pivotal role in ensuring accessible, comprehensive, and culturally responsive healthcare for all individuals, including those in the LGBTQ+ community. At Axis Community Health, we understand the importance of creating inclusive spaces where everyone feels safe to seek care without fear of judgment or discrimination.

During Pride Month, we join the collective effort to shine a light on the health disparities faced by LGBTQ+ individuals. Our goal is to empower healthcare providers and community members to engage in open dialogue, share resources, and foster understanding. From the moment a patient walks through our doors, we prioritize their dignity and embrace their diversity.

At Axis, we offer a range of services, from internal medicine to dental care, all geared towards providing whole-person care that addresses both physical and psychological well-being. Our providers are trained to address specific health disparities, including those faced by subpopulations in the LGBTQ+ community who may experience higher rates of certain cancers, behavioral health issues, and viral diseases.

As we celebrate Pride Month, our commitment to promoting the health and well-being of all individuals remains unwavering. By working together to dismantle barriers, challenge stigma, and advocate for equitable healthcare, we strive to create a world where everyone has the opportunity to thrive, regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity.

Managing Pain without Pills: Acupuncture and Chiropractic Care at Axis Community Health

May is Mental Health Month, and at Axis Community Health, we believe in treating a whole person’s physical and mental health. How our bodies feel can dictate the state of our mental health and when we are in pain, it’s hard to feel happy and well. Axis has two programs that help patients find pain relief without relying on medication: Acupuncture and Chiropractic care. If you’re dealing with things like anxiety, headaches, arthritis, or just some plain pain, we’ve got you covered. These two practices that been used for managing pain in ancient Greece and China. Let’s explore how it can help:

Acupuncture

Acupuncture is believed to stimulate your body’s nervous system that can help us feel better overall. It focuses on rebalancing your body to treat all sorts of conditions and help ease pain. A thin, threadlike needle is gently inserted into your skin at specific points called, “acupoints”. It’s believed that certain acupoints are connected to certain parts of your body release of our body’s natural painkillers, called endorphins. While needles don’t sound appealing, the process virtually painless!

Chiropractic Care

Chiropractic care focuses on body’s structure, especially your spine, to help relieve pain and improve how everything functions. By adjusting your alignment your body will have an easier time healing itself. It’s not just about cracking your back; chiropractic care can include manual therapies, exercises, and even tips on how to sit, stand, and walk better.

Our acupuncture and chiropractic services are open to teens and adults alike and can help give you some relief if you suffer from:

– Anxiety & Depression

-Nausea

– Headaches & Migraines

– Arthritic Pain

– And more.

If you’re already part of the Axis family and want to know more about how these services can help you, please just give us a call at 925-462-1755. We’re here to make sure you feel your best, inside and out!

April is Medi-Cal Awareness Month!

This month serves as a reminder of the invaluable healthcare support system that Medi-Cal provides to those in need, while also shedding light on the importance of healthcare accessibility and equity.

Did you know that 69% of Axis patients are Medi-Cal beneficiaries? Medi-Cal, California’s Medicaid program, plays a crucial role in ensuring that individuals and families who are experiencing income hardships have access to essential healthcare services. As of January 1, 2024, Medi-Cal now covers adults ages 26-49 regardless of immigration status. The 2024 expansion gave over 700,000 additional California residents the ability to access low to no-cost health insurance¹. Age is no longer a constraint to benefit from full-scope Medi-Cal. From preventive care and routine check-ups to emergency medical treatment and specialized services, Medi-Cal serves as a lifeline for millions of Californians, including children, pregnant women, seniors, and people with disabilities.

Many eligible individuals may not be aware of their options or may encounter barriers to accessing the care they need. Medi-Cal Awareness Month is a time to educate and inform the public about the program’s eligibility criteria, benefits, and enrollment process. Axis’s Certified Enrollment Counselors can be reached at 925-462-1755 to help individuals enroll into Medi-Cal or to check one’s Medi-Cal status.

This Medi-Cal Awareness Month, Axis would like to highlight the importance of quality, affordable, and accessible health care as a fundamental human right. Whether through raising awareness, advocating for policy changes, or supporting those in need, each of us has a role to play in ensuring a healthy and happy community!

References:

https://www.gov.ca.gov/2022/10/19/medi-cal-expansion-provided-286000-undocumented-californians-with-comprehensive-health-care/