Volume XII No. 4 • April 15, 2007 · 1960 Zen Macrobiotic Diet 1961 Calories Don’t Count Diet 1964 Drinking Man’s Diet 1981 Beverly Hills Diet 1982 Caveman Diet 1986 Rotation

INSIDE: Bird Study, p. 8 • TGXIV, p. 10 • Priorities p. 12-13 • Smile 07, p. 17

Long Term Care — Tegganeput mikelngurput-llu akanun aulukciqaput

See Tribal Gathering story, photos and priorities starting on page 10

Volume XII No. 4 • April 15, 2007

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YKHC Board of DirectorsUnit 1Raymond F. Waska, Sr.P.O. Box 46Emmonak, Alaska 99581907-949-1514Paula AyunerakP.O. Box 5Alakanuk, Alaska 99554907-238-3213

Unit 2Ray Alstrom P.O. Box 8Marshall, Alaska 99585907-679-6320James C. LandlordP.O. Box 32168Mt. Village, AK 99632907-591-2119

Unit 3Billy MorganP.O. Box 72Aniak, Alaska 99557907-675-4457Angela MorganP.O. Box 243Aniak, Alaska 99557907-675-4413

Unit 4James Nicori P.O. Box 41Kwethluk, Alaska 99621907-757-6837Moses Peter P.O. Box 57Tuluksak, Alaska 99679907- 695-6420

Unit 5Bill Kristovich P.O. Box 1037 Bethel, Alaska 99559907-543-4151/2212Henry Hunter, Sr.P.O. Box 632Bethel, Alaska 99559907-543-5130Gloria SimeonP.O. Box 308 Bethel, Alaska 99559907-543-5676Joseph C. BavillaP.O. Box 6011Napaskiak, Alaska 99559907-737-7062

Unit 6Esai Twitchell, Jr.P.O. Box 121Kasigluk, Alaska 99609907-477-6309

Unit 7David O. DavidPO Box 78Kwigillingok, Alaska 99622907-588-8484

Unit 8James R. Charlie, Sr. P.O. Box 37012Toksook Bay, Alaska 99637907-427-7114James SiparyP.O. Box 37134 Toksook Bay, Alaska 99637907- 427-7816

Unit 9Reuben HillP.O. Box 210Hooper Bay, Alaska 99604H: 907-558-4096 - W: 558-4711Moses J. Tulim P.O. Box 130Chevak, Alaska 99563907-858-7920

Unit 10Sam W. AlexieP.O. Box 57 Eek, Alaska 99578907-536-5428

Unit 11Kathy W. ChaseP.O. Box 41Holy Cross, Alaska 99602907-476-7162

Honorary Board MemberPaul JohnP.O. Box 37067 Toksook Bay, Alaska 99637907-427-74l4

Numbers to CallYKHC ......................................................................... 543-6000Public Relations .......................................................... 543-6030Media Services ............................................................ 543-6038Office of Environmental Health & Engineering ......... 543-6420Technology Help Desk ................................................ 543-6070Human Resources ....................................................... 543-6060 Job Line ................................................................... 543-6443Administration ............................................................ 543-6020Hospital ....................................................................... 543-6300Emergency Room ........................................................ 543-6395Hospital Community Relations ................................... 543-6350Social Services ............................................................ 543-6225Family Medicine Clinic Appointments ....................... 543-6442 1-800-478-3321Dental Appointments .................................................. 543-6229Optometry Appointments ............................................ 543-6336Audiology Appointments ............................................ 543-6466

Subregional Clinic Appointments Aniak ....................................................................... 675-4556 Emmonak ................................................................ 949-3500 St. Mary’s ................................................................ 438-3500 Toksook Bay ............................................................ 427-3500Public Health Nursing ..................................................543-2110Pharmacy ..................................................................... 543-6382Travel Management Center ......................................... 543-6360WIC Program .............................................................. 543-6459Health Services .......................................................... 543-6024Village Operations ...................................................... 543-6160 CHAP ...................................................................... 543-6160 ICEMS ..................................................................... 543-6080 Community Health & Wellness ............................... 543-6190Behavioral Health Services ......................................... 543-6100 Phillips Ayagnirvik .................................................. 543-6700 Village Services ....................................................... 543-6740Home Care Services .................................................... 543-6170

Volume XII No. 4 • April 15, 2007�

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 Mes-senger Editor, Public Relations, Yukon-Kuskokwim Health

Corporation, P.O. Box 528, Bethel, Alaska 99559. E-mail: [email protected]. Deadline is the last

day of the month preceding publication. Publi-cation is on the 15th of every month. Anchor-

age Office: 4700 Business Park Blvd. Suite E25, Anchorage, Alaska 99503. 907-677-2232. Please ask permission to reprint articles or pictures. © 2007, Yukon-Kuskokwim Health Corporation.

YKHC Board & Committee Meetings

2007April 24

Finance Committee

April 25–27Full Board of Directors Meeting

May 22Finance Committee

May 23Governing Body

June 19Finance Committee

June 20–21Executive Board

July 24Finance Committee

July 25Governing Body

August 21Finance Committee

August 22–23Executive Board

September 18Finance Committee

September 19Governing Body

October 23Finance Committee

October 24–25Executive Board

October, 2007Alaska Federation of Natives (AFN), Fairbanks

Administration eyes budget revisionOver the last few years, the costs of providing health care have increased dramat-

ically. Energy, medical, pharmaceutical, personnel, capital replacement and raw construction materials have increased while federal Indian Health Service funding has remained relatively flat. For next year, the State of Alaska has proposed substantial cuts to various health care programs that could impact YKHC. About a quarter of YKHC’s revenue stream is federal and state grants. Administration is waiting for the funding appro-priations to be completed before taking any necessary actions. As a result of unexpected increases in expenses and a decline in revenues this year, YKHC Administration has identified a necessary revision to the 2007 fiscal year budget.

“In order to remain financially strong and achieve a sustainable budget to operate our health care system, we are forced to reduce expenses in specific areas throughout our organization,” said Gene Peltola, President and CEO. “We are in the process of reducing expenses by $6.64 million, or 4.3% of our total budget.”Leaders within YKHC have met with the Board to discuss the urgency to solidify and resolve the current financial deficit. A comprehensive financial assessment has revealed the greatest reduction in expenses associated with central supplies, rental and travel costs, vacant positions, and the current payroll.

“With this budget revision plan, we are faced with the unavoidable reality of down-sizing our workforce,” Peltola said. “While all reductions will be difficult, we will minimize the direct impact to the delivery of health care.” It is anticipated that thir-teen positions within YKHC’s current workforce will be affected.To reduce the expense related to rental costs, there has been a housing transition that affected Bethel-based employees. For many years, YKHC has provided housing as a benefit to a certain class of employees. These were located in a federally owned and regulated hospital housing complex. Unfortunately, federal housing regulations

John Guinn appointed to Vets Advisory CouncilGovernor Sarah Palin appointed YKHC Facilities Direc-tor John Guinn to serve on the Alaska Veterans Advisory Council.

Guinn is a United States Marine Corps Veteran and former VFW State commander. Guinn served in Vietnam from 1966 to 1967 and earned the Purple Heart.

The 13-member Veterans Advisory Council makes recommendations to the governor and the Department of Military and Veterans Affairs concerning the needs of veterans. It also develops partnerships to meet those needs, and provides information about verterans’ benefits and services.

see BUDGET REVISION, p. 18

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Call Diabetes Prevention & Control: 907-543-6133 or 1-800-478-3321 ext. 6133

NATIONAL NUTRITION MONTH

Every month should be nutrition month!March was National Nutrition Month, sponsored by the Reg-

istered Dietitians of the American Dietetic Association. This year’s theme was “100% Fad Free.” Diet fads come and go, and some may help you lose weight in the short term, but for National Nutrition Month® 2007, the American Dietetic Association says the most effec-tive long-term way to achieve a healthful lifestyle is to be 100% Fad Free.

You can lose weight on virtually any diet. If you eat less, you will lose weight. The question is, can you maintain a healthy lifestyle over the long term—your life? The real key to reaching long-term goals is to focus on your overall health.

Learn how to spot a food fad. Unreasonable or exaggerated claims that eating (or not eating) specific foods, nutrient supplements or combinations of foods may cure disease or offer quick weight loss are key features of fad diets.

No ‘super food’ or diet approach can reverse weight gain result-ing from overeating and inactivity. And because most fad diets don’t teach new eating habits and many require you to give up your favorite foods, people usually don’t stick with them.

The following tips can help evaluate a new product, diet or recommendation:1. If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is—espe-

cially if the diet or product offers a “quick fix.” 2. Avoid products offering a guaranteed cure or which

promote “limited-time offers.” 3. Watch out for products that describe certain foods as

“good” or “bad.” 4. Is the source of the information, such as a book

author, also trying to sell a product, like supplements?

Fad diets have been around a long time:

RECIPE

Split Pea Soup1 bag (14 oz.) dried split peas, rinsed and cleaned according to package directions.

7 cups water2 beef bouillon cubes1 medium onion, finely chopped1 cup grated carrots (2 to 3 carrots)½ teaspoon black pepper

Combine all ingredients in a soup pot and mix well.

Bring to boil over medium-high heat.

Reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 1 hour, or until the peas are soft and thoroughly cooked.

Tips For Better Diabetes Control• Learn as much as you can

about diabetes• See a Registered Dietitian

(RD)• Eat 3 meals a day at regular

times• Eat less fat, sugar and salt• Increase your physical activity• Check your blood sugar

2–4 times a day, or more as instructed

1820 Vinegar and Water Diet1825 Low Carbohydrate Diet1830 Graham’s Diet1863 Banting’s Low Carbohy-drate Diet1925 Cigarette Diet1928 Inuit Meat-and-Fat Diet1930 Hay Diet1934 Bananas and Skim Milk Diet1950 Cabbage Soup Diet1950 Grapefruit Diet1960 Zen Macrobiotic Diet1961 Calories Don’t Count Diet1964 Drinking Man’s Diet1981 Beverly Hills Diet

1982 Caveman Diet1986 Rotation Diet1987 Scarsdale Low-carbohy-drate diet1990 Cabbage Soup Diet1994 Atkin’s High Protein Low Carb Diet1995 Sugar Busters1996 Eat Right for Your Blood Type1999 Juice2000 Raw Foods Diet2001 High Protein Low Carb Diet2004 Coconut Diet2005 Cheater’s Diet2006 Maple Syrup Diet

They all work for weight loss, as long as the number of calories (in cabbage or maple syrup or whatever) you take in is LESS than the calories you expend. However, you will end up with some serious nutrient gaps.

Remember, the Best Path to Fitness and Health Is to Be 100% Fad Free.


For more information on Healthy Hearts, call Ben Marx at 1-800-478-4471 ext. 6904 or 543-6904.

Physical Activity in the YK Delta

Apparently, the bitter coldness of winter is fading away. Warmer weather is near. Soon, outdoor activities will again begin to

come out of their hibernation.

In Bethel, there are plenty of opportunities for physical activity that have been going on and others that will soon begin. In the vil-lages, plans are being made to create an eruption of physical activity events never seen before.

With confidence, the Yukon-Kuskokwim Delta is being restored to the physically active region it was so long ago.

However, this eruption of physical activity cannot depend solely on the great people that install the events. The community members must arise to the opportunities placed before them.

All community members are encouraged to attend to the events, take the initiative to participate in their community and demonstrate healthy lifestyle behaviors to the younger generations. A positive future health for the children requires that adult community mem-bers engage in positive lifestyle behaviors.

Below is a list of physical activity events in Bethel. St. Mary’s, Toksook Bay, and Mekoryuk are planning future events as well, such as daily walks, exercise classes, and weekly luncheons that offer heart healthy foods.

This list of villages does not have to include so few. Every village can demonstrate this grand movement. All community members of all villages are encouraged to establish physical activity events within their community. Everyone can be a leader. Even YOU!

For help in establishing community events, call Ben Marx at 543-6904 or email him at [email protected]. As the case man-ager for Healthy Hearts and as an exercise physiologist, he is glad to help anyone choosing to better their lives with physical activity.

Show the children how to be healthy. Establish a physical activity

in YOUR community!

Bethel Fun Run and WalkSaturday, April 21 9:30 a.m. check-in 10 a.m. race at Cultural Center. FREE. Call Ben at 543-6904 or Anne at 543-6867 for more info.Ballroom DancingEither Wednesdays (Latin styles, such as salsa, cha-cha-cha, rumba) or Saturdays (Smooth styles, such as foxtrot, tango, waltz, swing) or take both. 7:30–9 p.m. Sign-up and fee required. Call Chester Mark at 543-2999 for more details.Bethel Orienteering—NEW!Saturday April 14 and April 28, 3 p.m at the Cultural Center. With a map in hand, walk to various Bethel sites, collecting evidence of your arrival at each site and turn them in for a treat at the end. Easy map, easy fun; find out which town is number one! FREE. Call Ben at 543-6904 to register your name.Bethel Youth Center GymMonday, 9:30 a.m.–6 p.m. Tuesday–Friday 9 a.m.–9:30 p.m. Sat-urday 12 p.m.–9:30 p.m. Cost is $50/month or $3/day. For ages 15 and up. Call 543-2088 for more info.Circuit TrainingCombination of cardio, strength, and flexibility stations. Tuesdays 6–7 p.m. at the Covenant Church. FREE. All levels are welcome. Email Alyssa Perry at [email protected] for more info.Curves of BethelFun, fast, safe workout! Call for your appointment 543-2995. Open Gym BasketballHeld Monday and Thursday nights at the Armory. Women 6:30–8 p.m., $2. Men 8–10 p.m., $3. Contact Bev Hoffman at 543-3239 for more info. All proceeds are donated to the Life-saver swimming pool fund.PilatesSaturdays 8–9 a.m. at the Covenant Church. Bring a mat or towel. FREE. All levels are welcome. Email Alyssa Perry at [email protected] for more info.Yoga with AnneFridays at 7 p.m. at the Log Cabin. Some mats are available—bring your own if you have one. FREE. Call Anne at 543-6867 for more info.

Fiddle dancing is good exercise. Keep an eye out for fiddle dance events in your community.

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Stress: The Not So Silent Thiefby Spruce Lynch, YKHC Health Education

For people who live in a fast-paced society like ours, stressors can come at us from many sources. Sometimes, stress can be silent, so we hardly

know it’s there. Other times, stress can come in the form of loud, constant noises. Wherever it comes from, stress can rob us of our happiness if we let it go on too long.

The reality of our lives is that we do have many deadlines to meet. We have bills to pay and we have meetings to attend. A little stress is good for us because it makes us pay attention.

However, how do we know when enough is enough? To prevent ourselves from moving too close to the edge, we need to

begin by paying attention to the little things in life. Those small annoy-ances do build up in our minds and if we don’t pay attention, they can take over.

If you find yourself going over and over the same thing, stop and think: “What can I do about it?” If the answer is “nothing” or “nothing now,” let it go.

Focus your energy on anything else that makes you feel good.Put your energy into areas that you can change. That will make you feel

better because you will show yourself that you have control over some-thing in your life.

Another good thing to do is eat a healthy diet. Avoid foods with high sugar content. Read the labels on food and check for high contents of other ingredients like cholesterol and fats.

When you do eat, enjoy it. Make a point of enjoying your food. Avoid eating on the run. Decrease your caffeine intake.

Get a physical activity routine going in your daily life. It doesn’t have to be a lot. You don’t have to join expensive spas and buy expensive workout clothes. All you have to do is move more.

Last, but not least—get plenty of sleep. There is nothing better than a good night’s rest. If you work the night shift, drink plenty of water instead

of plenty of caffeinated beverages. That will help you sleep during the day when the sun is shining brightly.

Whether stress is subtle or obvious, we need to recognize it in our lives. We were designed to have control over stress, not stress having control over us. Recognition that you are in a stressful situation is the first step. If you take the next steps—eating right, sleeping enough, getting enough physical activity and recognizing what controls you have over stress—you will be the winner!

Exercise and socializing can help relieve stress. Enjoy the outdoors this spring and put your stress on the shelf.

State boosts prevention in Medicaid dental care for adultsThe step to improve oral health is one of several needed; access to providers is still limitedAlaska Department of Health & Social Services(Juneau, Alaska) — Beginning April 2007 adults enrolled in Med-icaid will have coverage for preventive and restorative dental care, the Department of Health and Social Services announced March 30.

Eligible adults will have coverage for dental services such as exams, cleanings, tooth restorations, crowns, root canals and den-tures, up to an annual cap of $1,150 per person per state fiscal year. Previously only emergency dental care was available for adults enrolled in Medicaid.

“Promoting and protecting the health of Alaskans includes dental health,” said Commissioner Karleen Jackson. “By emphasizing pre-vention for adult Medicaid recipients we will significantly reduce demand for more expensive emergency dental care, and improve the health of Alaskans.”

It is estimated that between 12,000 and 15,000 people will use the service, out of 41,000 adults enrolled in Medicaid. The number of people able to take advantage of the expanded benefits may be lim-

ited by the availability of dental providers around the state who are accepting new Medicaid clients, although the state is working with dentists to encourage participation.

Missed appointments are a reason dentists often give for not accepting more Medicaid patients. To encourage patients to keep appointments, the state recently clarified in regulation that provid-ers may charge Medicaid patients for missed appointments if that is their policy for non-Medicaid patients.

Legislation passed in 2006 authorized the change to Medic-aid; since then the state has worked to complete regulations and receive federal authorization. Recently the State Medicaid Plan was approved by the federal Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, state regulations are in place, and Alaska dental Medicaid providers have been informed of the changes.

Additional information on the adult dental Medicaid services including a full list of covered services can be found at: www.hss.state.ak.us/dhcs/dental/.

Recipients can also call the First Health recipient helpline at 1-800-780-9972 to answer questions or locate a dentist who is cur-rently accepting new Medicaid patients.


Women’s clinic held at Toksook Bay SRCJolene John, Operations Manager, Toksook Bay SRC The Toksook Subregional Clinic held a Women’s Health Clinic on Satur-day, March 10. These exams were offered in conjunction with Toksook’s major Yuraq Dance Festival that included the communities of Chefornak, Newtok, Nightmute, Tununak and St. Mary’s.

Providers Anne Willard, NP, and Anna R. John, CHP, completed seven exams while Patricia Sipary, CHA II/Lab Assistant, worked along side them to work on necessary specimens.

This weekend clinic was a great success thanks to the willingness of the women who agreed to be seen (majority from Chefornak) and for the extra dedicated time and effort that Toksook providers gave. Quyana Cakneq!

An innovative relationship— YKHC and Yuut ElitnaurviatBy Tiffany ZulkoskyYKHC’s President/CEO, Gene Peltola, has long been a champion of workforce development in the Yukon-Kuskokwim Delta. When meet-ing with U.S. Senator Ted Stevens many years ago, he pinpointed a major long-term need in Southwest Alaska—a regional vocational training center.

Soon after, the conversation developed into a non-profit organiza-tion, Yuut Elitnaurviat: The People’s Learning Center. Today the 501(c)(3) organization is partnered with various agencies in the com-munity, including YKHC. Each partnering agency provides a unique component that is bringing YE to the forefront of regional training centers in Alaska.

“Without Gene and YKHC’s Board and staff support, YE would not be what it is today,” YE Executive Director LaMont Albertson said.

“It is Gene’s dream that the YK Delta become a net-exporter of qualified employees. His vision on our board has enabled us to see great success and work towards achieving that goal.”

YE has again begun construction on the 10-acre campus in Bethel’s City Subdivision. Two, 22-bed dormitories are scheduled to be completed and occupied by Fall 2007. The weatherproof shell of a 20,000 square foot educational facility will also be completed this winter. The campus is expected to be fully operational by winter 2008.

www.yuut.org — 907-543-6985

Nicholas Cooke of Bethel and Jason Maxie of Kwethluk take a break from working on a mock-up wall used to show students how a plumb-ing system works. Cooke and Maxie were part of a recent Plumbing Academy. Photos by Tiffany Zulkosky.

YE upcoming courses06/07 Academic YearConstruction Academy, Part 1 April 16–27, 2007Youth Academy – Introduction to Construction Driving April 30–May 11, 2007Construction Academy, Part 2: May 14–25, 200740-hour GPS/Civil Academy May 28–June 01, 2007

07/08 Academic YearCertified Interpretive Guide Course October 2–5, 200716-hour 6-pack October 15-16, 2007

MORE COURSES TO BE ANNOUNCED!

Empty pilings will no longer stand empty as construction for the 20,000 square foot Technical Education and Support Services building begins. The building will serve as vocational classroom space and administrative offices for Yuut Elitnaurviat.

Influenza!You or someone in your family

may be due for the flu shot

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Travel Safely Brought to you by The YKHC Injury Prevention Department

Summer is almost here! Those cold dark winter days are all but over, and the sun

has begun sticking around longer. If you’re like me, you’ve begun to think about tuning up the boat, and reaching for the tackle box.

As these changes take place, the ice on the river is weakening. This makes it increas-ingly important to be alert when traveling on the river. As you make your last few trips traveling over the ice, here are some tips to help make your travel a safe one: • Always wear a Personal Floatation Device! • It is always best to NEVER travel alone! • Watch out for open holes along the trails

and beware of different ice conditions. Dark ice, brown ice, and purple ice is always unsafe, and any water-covered ice is extremely dangerous.

PreparationTo prepare for any emergency situation when traveling over ice, the following items are essential: • an ice pick-to check ice thickness• a first aid kit• extra clothing• extra food• a fire starter• a signal, rope and necessary survival gear

Also, you will need the following for your snow machine: • extra fuel• starting fluid• a tool kit• spark plugs• a drive belt• a starter cord• an owner’s manual

Before you leave, make sure you tell a responsible person your travel plan that includes:• Where you are going• Who will be traveling• What route you plan to take (if you change

destination or route be sure to inform the responsible person of your changes)

• What you are taking (equipment)• How long you plan to be gone• When you plan to return

Be prepared, not scared…What YOU should know about bird flu

•The “Bird Flu” in the news (H5N1) has notbeen found anywhere in America

•It is OK to HUNT and eat wild birds

•Do not go near or touch sick birds or ones that you find dead

•Call 1-866-527-3358 (1-866-5 BRD FLU) to reportany large group of sick or dead birds

Take care when cleaning and cooking birds & eggs

•Do not eat, drink or smoke when cleaning birds

•Keep your hands away from your face and mouth while handling birds or eggs

•Wash your hands thoroughly after you touch birds and gathering eggs

•When you are done, scrub your knife, ulu, and work area with soap and water

•Cook birds to a temperature of 165’ F (cook until juices run clear)

•Do not eat raw, smoked or undercooked birds or eggs

Stay informed!The news about Bird Flu is constantly evolving and advice may change.

Alaska Dept. of Fish & Game:Anchorage 907-267-2257 ∙ Fairbanks (907) 459-7206—or your local office. Web site: www.wildlife.alaska.gov/aawildlife/disease/avian influenza.pdf

U. S. Fish & Wildlife ServiceToll free: 1-866-5 BRD FLU or your local refuge office.Web site: http://alaska.fws.gov/media/avian_influenza/index.htm

Alaska Dept. of Health & Social Services, Section of EpidemiologyAnchorage: 907-269-8000, or your local health aide, clinic or hospital.

General Pandemic Flu web site: www.pandemicflu.alaska.gov

Printed April 12, 2006

This information was de-veloped by local represen-tatives of State of Alaska Fish and Game, Public Health Nursing and Epide-miology, in collaboration with the Yukon-Kuskok-wim Health Corporation, Association of Village Council Presidents, and US Fish and Wildlife Service.

Delta hunters continue bird flu studyThe US Fish & Wildlife Service (USFWS) and YKHC’s Office of Environmental

Health and Engineering (OEHE) will be partnering to collect samples from migra-tory birds again this year. They are looking for the highly pathogenic H5N1 avian influ-enza in migratory birds arriving on the Yukon-Kuskokwim Delta throughout the spring hunting season.

The same 10 villages as last year were selected by USFWS to conduct sampling. They were chosen based on their geographical location and the species of birds that hunters typically collect for subsistence in those villages. In the villages selected for sampling, hunters are asked to bring subsistence-caught birds to their village testing manager. The manager will swab each bird, and the bird will be returned to the hunter. The goal is to collect at least 300 samples from each of the villages. The 10 villages selected for the study are Chefornak, Eek, Hooper Bay, Kipnuk, Kotlik, Kwethluk, Mekoryuk, Pilot Station, Toksook Bay and Quinhagak.

USFWS identified six species they are most interested in collecting samples from.

See BIRD FLU STUDY, p. 17

Printed April 12, 2006

This information was developed by local rep-resentatives of State of Alaska Fish and Game, Public Health Nursing and Epidemiology, in col-laboration with the Yu-kon-Kuskokwim Health Corporation, Association of Village Council Presi-dents, and US Fish and Wildlife Service.


If your well cap is covered with water:• Don’t drink your water.• Household bleach can be used as disinfectant if used properly. • Contact your local Office of Environmental Health at 1-800-478-6599. They can give tips on proper ways to treat your well. 1-800-478-6599

Protect yourself from

FLOOD CRUDSpring has finally arrived to the Delta! After months of

below zero temps, blowing snow, and riding the sno-go, the weather is finally warming up. It’s time to get your rain boots out of the closet; break up is just around the corner. Unfortunately, this time of year can also mean flooding!Now we all know floods can do some serious property damage when water seeps into the house or washes a boat downstream. But do you ever think about the kind of damage floods can do to our health? That’s right, floods can even damage us! Flood season means we may see overflowing sewage lagoons and contaminated wells. We have to be EXTRA careful this time of year to make sure our drinking water is safe.

Don’t let flood crud get you down! Be sure to follow these tips to protect yourself and your family from illness.

Standard Precautions 1. Do not use contaminated water to wash

dishes, brush your teeth, wash and prepare food, wash your hands, make ice, or make baby formula.

2. Boiling water is the preferred way to kill harmful bacteria and parasites. Bringing water to a boil for 10 minutes will kill most organisms.

3. When boiling water is not possible, you can treat water with chlorine tablets, iodine tablets, or unscented household chlorine bleach (5.25% sodium hypochlo-rite) • Household chlorine bleach, add 1/8

teaspoon (0.75 mL) of bleach per gallon of water if the water is clear.

• For cloudy water, add 1/4 teaspoon (1.50 mL) of bleach per gallon. Mix the solution thoroughly and let it stand for about 30 minutes before using.

4. Electrical power and oil or propane tanks should be shut off to avoid fire, electrocu-tion, or explosions until it is safe to use them.

5. Avoid any downed power lines, particu-larly those in water. All electrical equip-ment and appliances must be completely

dry before returning them to service. 6. Do not operate any gas-powered

equipment indoors. 7. Always wash your hands with soap

and water that has been boiled or dis-infected before preparing or eating food, after toilet use, after participat-ing in flood cleanup activities, and after handling articles contaminated with flood water or sewage.

8. If you receive a puncture wound or a wound contaminated with feces, soil, or saliva, have a doctor or health aide deter-mine whether a tetanus booster is neces-sary.

Emergency Supplies • Several clean containers for water, large

enough for a 3-5 day supply of water• A 3-5 day supply of non-perishable food

and a nonelectric can opener• A first aid kit and manual, prescription

medicines and special medical needs. • A battery-powered radio, flashlights, and

extra batteries• Sleeping bags or extra blankets• Water-purifying supplies, such as clorox

or iodine tablets

• Baby food and/or prepared formula, dia-pers, and other baby supplies

• Disposable cleaning cloths, such as “baby wipes” in case bathing facilities are not available

• Personal hygiene supplies, such as soap, toothpaste, sanitary napkins, etc.

Cleaning Tips • Cleaning up after a flood should start with

drying out. Remove everything that is wet and start cleaning inside the house

• Wall and hard-surfaces should be cleaned with soap and water and disinfected with a solution of 1 cup of bleach to five gal-lons of water

• Wash all linens and clothing in hot water. For items that cannot be washed, air dry them in the sun and then spray them thor-oughly with a disinfectant

Breakup can be exciting, but Spring ice jams can cause flooding. It pays to be prepared.

10

Nearly 100 Tribal Council leaders from 50 villages in our service region gathered for two days to discuss the improvement and

sustainability of the Yukon-Kuskokwim Delta’s health care system during YKHC’s 14th Tribal Unity Gathering.

Held April 4th and 5th at Bethel’s Yupiit Piciryarait Cultural Center, the conference surrounded the theme of Long Term Care, “Tegganeput

Mikelngurput-llu Akanun Aulukciqaput,” and captured the attention of all village leaders as they, together, confronted major health concerns facing our elder and youth population and estab-lished health care priorities for 2007.

YKHC’s President/CEO Gene Peltola empha-sized the corporation’s top priority of providing quality health care.

“We remain committed to excellence in all areas of health care,” Peltola said in his welcome address. “From our Direct Care Providers who work in the home of Elders and people with dis-abilities, our Health Aides who respond to health care needs in our villages, and all our nurses, doctors and support staff who serve our patients at our Bethel hospital, we strive for excel-lence at every level of health care delivery.”

State Rep-resentative Mary Nelson also welcomed tribal delegates in a videotaped address, “It’s been brought to the House Finance Com-mittee’s atten-tion that the state can benefit

Bethel Elder Peter Jacob during a question and answer session.

Chief Financial Officer Luke Wells gets a Dental Dept. update from Dr. Ed Allgair.

Above: A delegate visits the Nicotine Control and Research information table where staffer Maribeth Ayagalria was able to provide plenty of rea-sons to quit. Right : Elder Paul John speaks of traditional ways during a question and answer session.

Long Term CareTegganeput mikelngurput-llu akanun aulukciqaput

Tribal Council representatives from Unit 1 list their top health care priorities for 2007.


Major projects listed

were the Hospital

CT Scanner, which is

projected to be brought

on line this September,

and a new Prematernal

Home facility to begin

construction next June

and save a lot of money by partnering with tribes. I am very excited that you are confronting very serious health concerns facing all of us,” she states. “In most instances these are preventable diseases. It’s so important that we recognize this and work on ways to prevent these life threatening diseases.”

During the opening morning of the first day, Corporate Medical Director Dr. Joe Klejka reported the Health Status Scorecard for the people of the Delta, identifying the leading causes of death over the past year as cancer,

heart disease, unintentional injuries and suicide. “How do we become the healthiest people in the world?” Klejka asked. “Through physical activity, eating traditional food, living tobacco and alcohol-free life-styles, wearing helmets and life jackets, getting cancer screenings for early prevention, and lastly, getting our immunizations.”

YKHC Managers reported on the progress and challenges of last year’s top health care priorities: CT Scanner, Assisted Living Home, Dental Health Care, Sanitation: Water & Sewer and Capital Projects.

Greg McIntyre, Vice President for Support Services, answered many construction-related questions, providing a detailed projected construc-tion schedule which listed the Kwethluk and Kipnuk clinics to be fin-ished this June and the Hooper Bay Subregional Clinic to begin con-struction this summer, with an anticipated opening in October of 2008.

Among other major projects listed were the Hospital CT Scan, which is projected to be brought on line this September, and a new Prematernal Home facility to begin construction in June of 2008.

Liz Lee, Senior and Disabilities Administrator, reported on the progress of the first Assisted Living Home for Elders in Bethel with an anticipated opening as soon as next Summer, although a $575,000

Above: Gentlemen from Kipnuk and Pitka’s Point listen attentively to one of the reports from YKHC staff during the Gathering. Left: John Active and Trim Nick translate PHN Representative Tim Strunas talk on immunizations.

Long Term CareTegganeput mikelngurput-llu akanun aulukciqaput

Article by Danielle Dizon. Photos by Danielle Dizon and Michael Faubion, YKHC Public Relations

Diabetes Prevention & Control offered free blood glucose screenings.

Dr. Dan Hartman talked about AIDS/HIV in the Delta.

see GATHERING, p. 18

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Gathering Priorities by UnitDuring the past year, YKHC Leadership analyzed all the priorities for the past six years and summarized the top 10 categories. This year, Tribes rated those priorities in order of importance for them. Some Tribes added concerns that were not among the summarized listing.Unit 1Alakanuk, Emmonak, Kotlik, Nunam Iqua 1. Alcohol/Drug Abuse Concerns 2. Elder Issues—Care, Neglect, Respect, Housing, Nursing Home 3. Environmental Concerns: Water and Sewer, Dust, Dump 4. Bethel Hospital/Clinic Related Concerns, Quality of Care, Case

Managing 5. Improve Continuity of Care system-wide/Quality of Care Con-

cerns 6. Medical Providers–Hiring, Visiting Villages/SRCs 7. Village Clinic & Staff—Capitol Projects Improvement, Main-

tenance, Equipment & Supplies, Clinic Transportation, Support Staff

8. Health Education: Sex Ed, Safety, Water Safety, Injury Preven-tion

9. Pharmacy/Medication/Refills 10. Community Health Aide IssuesOther Concerns: CT Scan, Suicide Prevention, Generators for Clin-

ics

Unit 2Andreafsky, Marshall, Mtn. Village, Pilot Station, Pitka’s Point, Russian Mission, St. Mary’s 1. Village Clinic & Staff—Capitol Projects Improvement, Main-


2. Environmental Concerns: Water and Sewer, Dust, Dump 2. Community Health Aide Issues 4. Elder Issues—Care, Neglect, Respect, Housing, Nursing Home 5. Alcohol/Drug Abuse Concerns 6. Improve Continuity of Care system-wide/Quality of Care Con-

cerns 7. Medical Providers–Hiring, Visiting Villages/SRCs 8. Health Education: Sex Ed, Safety, Water Safety, Injury Preven-

tion 8. Bethel Hospital/Clinic Related Concerns, Quality of Care, Case

Managing 10. Pharmacy/Medication/RefillsOther: Child/Family counselors to address child issues and prob-

lems from “living in crisis’, domestic violence, deaths, abuse, suicide. SRCs need assisted living homes. Start small with model homes with few clients.

Unit 3Aniak, Chuathbaluk, Crooked Creek, Lime Village, Lower Kals-kag, Red Devil, Sleetmute, Stony River, Upper Kalskag 1. Cancer Testing 2. Alcohol/Drug Abuse Concerns/Suicide Prevention & Awareness 3. Community Health Aide Issues

4. Bethel Hospital/Clinic Related Concerns, Quality of Care, Case Managing

5. Improve Continuity of Care system-wide/Quality of Care Con-cerns


7. Elder Issues—Care, Neglect, Respect, Housing, Nursing Home 8. Environmental Concerns: Water and Sewer, Dust, Dump 9. Medical Providers–Hiring, Visiting Villages/SRCs 10. Village Clinic & Staff—Capitol Projects Improvement, Main-


Unit 4Akiachak, Akiak, Kwethluk, Tuluksak 1. Environmental Concerns: Water and Sewer, Dust, Dump 2. Bethel Hospital/Clinic Related Concerns, Quality of Care, Case

Managing 3. Alcohol/Drug Abuse Concerns 4. Pharmacy/Medication/Refills 5. Elder Issues—Care, Neglect, Respect, Housing, Nursing Home 5. Community Health Aide Issues 5. Medical Providers–Hiring, Visiting Villages/SRCs 8. Village Clinic & Staff—Capitol Projects Improvement, Main-



10. Improve Continuity of Care system-wide/Quality of Care Concerns

Other: More Health Aides, More Medicaid Travel Money

Unit 5Bethel, Napakiak, Napaskiak, Oscarville 1. CT Scan 2. Elder Issues—Care, Neglect, Respect, Housing, Nursing Home 3. Alcohol/Drug Abuse Concerns 4. Environmental Concerns: Water and Sewer, Dust, Dump 5. Health Education: Sex Ed, Safety, Water Safety, Injury Preven-

tion 6. Bethel Hospital/Clinic Related Concerns, Quality of Care, Case


cerns 8. Pharmacy/Medication/Refills 9. Medical Providers–Hiring, Visiting Villages/SRCs 10. Dental Clinic 11. Village Clinic & Staff—Capitol Projects Improvement, Main-


Unit 6Atmauthluak, Kasigluk, Nunapitchuk 1. Alcohol/Drug Abuse Concerns 2. Environmental Concerns: Water and Sewer, Dust, Dump 3. Village Clinic & Staff—Capitol Projects Improvement, Main-



4. Improve Continuity of Care system-wide/Quality of Care Con-cerns

5. Elder Issues—Care, Neglect, Respect, Housing, Nursing Home 6. Bethel Hospital/Clinic Related Concerns, Quality of Care, Case

Managing 7. Community Health Aide Issues 8. Health Education: Sex Ed, Safety, Water Safety, Injury Preven-

tion 9. Medical Providers–Hiring, Visiting Villages/SRCs 10. Pharmacy/Medication/Refills

Unit 7Kipnuk, Kongiganak, Kwigillingok, Tuntutuliak 1. Bethel Hospital/Clinic Related Concerns, Quality of Care, Case


cerns 3. Told to come back to the Clinic when I am worse. 4. Travel costs and lodging problems 5. Mis diagnosis and Wroge Prescription/Meds and Refill prob-

lems 6. Lack of Efficient/Effective care due to Medicaid /Medicare

Benefits 7. Village Clinic & Staff—Capitol Projects Improvement, Main-


8. Alcohol/Drug Abuse Concerns 9. Elder Issues—Care, Neglect, Respect, Housing, Nursing Home 10. Health Education: Sex Ed, Safety, Water Safety, Injury Pre-

vention

Unit 8Chefornak, Mekoryuk, Newtok, Nightmute, Toksook Bay, Tununak 1. Environmental Concerns: Water and Sewer, Dust, Dump 2. Bethel Hospital/Clinic Related Concerns, Quality of Care, Case

Managing 3. Alcohol/Drug Abuse Concerns 4. More Medevac Teams 5. Pharmacy/Medication/Refills 5. Community Health Aide Issues 6. Health Education: Sex Ed, Safety, Water Safety, Injury Preven-

tion 7. Improve Continuity of Care system-wide/Quality of Care Con-

cerns 8. Medical Providers–Hiring, Visiting Villages/SRCs 8. Village Clinic & Staff—Capitol Projects Improvement, Main-


9. CT Scanner 10. YKHC Annual Conference in Villages and Technical Assis-

tance

Unit 9Chevak, Hooper Bay, Scammon Bay 1. Community Health Aide Issues 2. Environmental Concerns: Water and Sewer, Dust, Dump 3. Bethel Hospital/Clinic Related Concerns, Quality of Care, Case

Managing 4. Alcohol/Drug Abuse Concerns 5. Health Education: Sex Ed, Safety, Water Safety, Injury Preven-

tion 6. Village Clinic & Staff—Capitol Projects Improvement, Main-


7. Pharmacy/Medication/Refills 8. Improve Continuity of Care system-wide/Quality of Care Con-

cerns 9. Elder Issues—Care, Neglect, Respect, Housing, Nursing Home 10. Medical Providers–Hiring, Visiting Villages/SRCsOther: Behavioral Health Support. SRC Support in Unit 9. Prevent

Overcrowded Housing (RSV)

Unit 10Eek, Quinhagak 1. Bethel Hospital/Clinic Related Concerns, Quality of Care, Case

Managing 2. Village Clinic & Staff—Capitol Projects Improvement, Main-


3. Community Health Aide Issues 4. Medical Providers–Hiring, Visiting Villages/SRCs 5. Pharmacy/Medication/Refills 6. Health Education: Sex Ed, Safety, Water Safety, Injury Preven-


cerns 8. Alcohol/Drug Abuse Concerns 9. Elder Issues—Care, Neglect, Respect, Housing, Nursing Home 10. Environmental Concerns: Water and Sewer, Dust, Dump

Unit 11Anvik, Grayling, Holy Cross, Shageluk 1. Village Clinic & Staff—Capitol Projects Improvement, Main-


2. Pharmacy/Medication/Refills Too Slow 3. Bethel Hospital/Clinic Related Concerns, Quality of Care, Case

Managing 4. Elder Issues—Care, Neglect, Respect, Housing, Nursing Home 5. Medical Providers–Hiring, Visiting Villages/SRCs 6. Alcohol/Drug Abuse Concerns (Wellness Cou9nselor Make

Regular Visits) 7. Community Health Aide Issues (Medevac Response) 8. Health Education: Sex Ed, Safety, Water Safety, Injury Preven-


cerns10. Environmental Concerns: Water and Sewer, Dust, Dump

1�

“Forget-Me-Not”Your community support group for and about cancer.

Esther “Bunny” [email protected]

Women, Infants & Childrens Program 907-543-6459

Toll Free: 1-800-764-6459

Cooking Safely in the Microwave Oven

Editor’s Note: Last month this column included information about using microwave ovens that was outdated and based on dubious research. We apologize for any unnecessary concern this may have caused. Microwave oven technology is safe today, but one should follow directions and use sound judgement—just as you would with any appliance. The following article is from the United States Department of Agriculture Food Safety and Inspection Service and includes current information.

Microwave ovens can play an important role at mealtime, but special care must be taken when cooking or reheat-ing meat, poultry, fish, and eggs to make sure they are

prepared safely. Microwave ovens can cook unevenly and leave “cold spots,” where harmful bacteria can survive. For this reason, it is important to use the following safe microwaving tips to prevent foodborne illness.

Microwave Oven Cooking• Arrange food items evenly in a covered dish and add some liquid

if needed. Cover the dish with a lid or plastic wrap; loosen or vent the lid or wrap to let steam escape. The moist heat that is created will help destroy harmful bacteria and ensure uniform cooking. Cooking bags also provide safe, even cooking.

• Do not cook large cuts of meat on high power (100%). Large cuts of meat should be cooked on medium power (50%) for longer periods. This allows heat to reach the center without overcooking outer areas.

• Stir or rotate food midway through the microwaving time to elimi-nate cold spots where harmful bacteria can survive, and for more even cooking.

• When partially cooking food in the microwave oven to finish cooking on the grill or in a conventional oven, it is important to transfer the microwaved food to the other heat source immediately. Never partially cook food and store it for later use.

• Use a food thermometer or the oven’s temperature probe to verify the food has reached a safe minimum internal temperature. Cook-ing times may vary because ovens vary in power and efficiency. Always allow standing time, which completes the cooking, before checking the internal temperature with a food thermometer.

• Cook foods to the following safe minimum internal temperatures:• Beef, veal, and lamb steaks, roasts, and chops may be cooked to

145°F.• All cuts of pork to 160°F.• Ground beef, veal and lamb to 160°F.• Egg dishes, casseroles to 160°F.• Leftovers to 165°F.• Stuffed poultry is not recommended. Cook stuffing separately to

165°F.• All poultry should reach a safe minimum internal temperature of

165°F.• Cooking whole, stuffed poultry in a microwave oven is not recom-

mended. The stuffing might not reach the temperature needed to destroy harmful bacteria.

• Avoid heating baby milk or formula in a microwave oven as it can create “hot spots” that could make the formula too hot for your baby.

Microwave Defrosting• Remove food from packaging before defrosting. Do not use foam

trays and plastic wraps because they are not heat stable at high temperatures. Melting or warping may cause harmful chemicals to migrate into food.

• Cook meat, poultry, egg casseroles, and fish immediately after defrosting in the microwave oven because some areas of the frozen food may begin to cook during the defrosting time. Do not hold partially cooked food to use later.

• Cover foods with a lid or a microwave-safe plastic wrap to hold in moisture and provide safe, even heating.

• Heat ready-to-eat foods such as hot dogs, luncheon meats, fully cooked ham, and leftovers until steaming hot.

• After reheating foods in the microwave oven, allow standing time. Then, use a clean food thermometer to check that food has reached 165 °F.

Containers & Wraps• Only use cookware that is specially manufactured for use in the

microwave oven. Glass, ceramic containers, and all plastics should be labeled for microwave oven use.

• Plastic storage containers such as margarine tubs, take-out contain-ers, whipped topping bowls, and other one-time use containers should not be used in microwave ovens. These containers can warp or melt, possibly causing harmful chemicals to migrate into the food.

• Microwave plastic wraps, wax paper, cooking bags, parchment paper, and white microwave-safe paper towels should be safe to use. Do not let plastic wrap touch foods during microwaving.

• Never use thin plastic storage bags, brown paper or plastic grocery bags, newspapers, or aluminum foil in the microwave oven.

Last Modified: April 3, 2006United States Department of Agriculture Food Safety and Inspection Service


Return of the Breastfeeding Task ForceMembers of the community, physicians, nurses, WIC and other departments in YKHC

have banded together to restart the Bethel Breastfeeding Task Force.This is in response to a growing need to educate and support the families in the Delta in

making the healthiest choice for their babies, breastfeeding!The Bethel Breastfeeding Task Force has begun their efforts by printing a pamphlet that

lists all the benefits associated with breastfeeding. These pamphlets will be available at first prenatal exams in the clinics and in the hospital.

Currently, 78 percent of our moms start breastfeeding at childbirth. Unfortunately, we see a tremendous drop at 3–4 months and only 37 percent are breastfeeding at 6 months. The national goal is to have 50 percent still breastfeeding at 6 months and 25 percent at one year.

Breastfeeding is the healthiest way to feed your baby. It offers immunization against a lot of illnesses, is healthier for a baby’s digestion, needs no preparation or sterilization, and is the original subsistence food!

Breastfeeding also has health benefits for the mother. For example, there is a reduced risk of breast and ovarian cancers and the added benefit of helping with weight loss!

The World Health Organization recommends with their Healthy Baby Initiative that women breastfeed up to two years old. The OB unit is beginning a support service of calling the new moms at two weeks to offer assistance and answer any questions.

Currently, moms are free to call the OB unit at YKHC and talk with our nurses who have a lot of experience with breastfeeding. We are also working on making OB “baby friendly” by having official nap times when moms can get the rest and have the quiet time so important to breastfeeding.

YKHC’s Women Infants and Children Program (WIC) has always promoted breastfeed-ing and offers mothers pumps for free so that when moms go to work they can still feed their babies the best food. Many women are happily caring for their babies and themselves by choosing to pump, even though it seems awkward at first. WIC has a room just for breastfeed-ing moms. This includes women working in the hospital who are also welcome to pump at that location.

High school students earn dual credit for Medical TerminologyEighteen high school students

throughout the YK Delta meet weekly at the Lower Kuskokwim School District office, by videoconfer-ence and in person, to learn medical terminology and simultaneously earn both high school and college credit for their work.

Patricia Barrett, RN Infection Con-trol and Instructor, introduces students to medical word roots, prefixes and suffixes within the context of body systems.

“This has been a great experience working with students and teachers located throughout the YK Delta. The technology is great,” said Barrett. “It is wonderful seeing students learn new words that they will later use in their careers as nurses, doctors and other healthcare careers.”

Through this semester-long course, students gain an understanding of medical word components by building and defining words focusing on various medical specialties.

The Medical Terminology course is a joint effort between the Lower Kuskokwim School District, Yuut Elit-nauviat, Kuskokwim Campus, and the YK Area Health Education Center to increase the number of local residents entering healthcare professions in the region by providing career explora-tion and dual credit for high school students.

State to distribute cervical cancer vaccine High cost of Gardasil forces change to state’s vaccine policyAlaska Department of Health & Social Services(Juneau) — Early this summer, the Alaska Department of Health and Social Services will begin distributing more than 20,000 doses of Gardasil, the first vaccine to prevent cervical cancer, to public and private clinics statewide.

The state will pay Gardasil’s cost only for girls age 9 through 18 who are eligible for the Vac-cines for Children program. The state intends to continue providing all other vaccines currently recommended for children at no charge.

“Although the high cost of Gardasil limits our ability to provide it for all Alaska women, we’re pleased that the department will be able to offer this vaccine for many Alaska girls who otherwise might not be able to obtain it,” said Laurel Wood, state immunization program man-ager.

For more than 30 years, the state has covered the cost of all recommended vaccines for chil-dren. Now state health officials are changing the policy for Gardasil only, saying federal funding sources for vaccines have not kept pace with the skyrocketing costs of immunizing children.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration approved Gardasil in June 2006 for use in girls and women age 9 to 26. Gardasil prevents infection from certain types of human papillomavirus (HPV), a sexually transmitted virus that can cause cervical cancer and genital warts. The Ameri-can Cancer Society estimates that more than 11,000 U.S. women will develop invasive cervical cancer this year, and about 3,700 will die of the disease.For more information about the HPV vaccine, visit www.epi.hss.state.ak.us/bulletins/docs/b2007_11.pdf.Fact Sheet available online: www.hss.state.ak.us/press/2007/pdf/pr040907hpv-vax-facts.pdf

VISIT OUR WEBSITE

www.ykhc.org

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Nutrition and Dental Health

Establishing good nutritional habits early on and choosing the right foods in our diet is an important

aspect in having good oral health.The foods that we eat come in contact with the germs and bacteria that live in the mouth. If we don’t brush, plaque will accumulate on the teeth. When plaque combines with the sugars and starches that we eat, an acid is produced that attacks tooth enamel and eventually causes decay. According to the American Dental Association, the acid can attack the teeth within 20 minutes.

Ongoing research indicates that adequate nutrition is important in strength-ening immunity and improving the body’s ability to fight bacteria and inflam-mation, and this includes protecting the teeth and gums as well.

Researchers also found that some dietary selections and habits even have distinct effects on the mouth’s ability to handle cavity-causing bacterial attacks.

Other findings• Calcium and vitamin D are known to decrease the risk for tooth loss in

the elderly. As bone loss in the oral cavity can lead to tooth loss, many of the same methods used to ward off osteoporosis can be beneficial to tooth retention. Adding powdered milk to cooked dishes helps those who don’t care for milk or cheese to get some of the calcium needed to protect teeth and jawbones.

• Antioxidant vitamins such as vitamin C and other nutrients from fruits and vegetables help protect gums and other tissues from cell damage and bacte-rial infection. Studies indicate that vitamin C-rich foods interrupt the bond-ing of oral bacteria before they can form damaging plague.

• Folic acid, a member of the B vitamin family, promotes a healthy mouth and supports cell growth throughout the entire body.

• Eating sugary or carbohydrate-rich foods as part of a balanced meal is better than eating them alone. The body produces more saliva to help digest larger meals, which washes away more food and helps neutralize harmful acids before they can attack teeth.

• Foods that take a long time to chew can damage teeth. That’s because sticky foods, including nutritious choices like raisins, dates and dried fruits, hold acid against teeth longer than do other foods.

• Cheese and smiles go together. Cooked or cold, cheese unleashes a burst of calcium that mixes with plaque and sticks to the teeth. This sticky mix-ture protects teeth from the acid that causes decay and helps rebuild tooth enamel on the spot.

Here are helpful tips for healthy teeth• Eat a variety of healthy foods from the major food groups and choose your

snack foods from the same healthy food groups. (Say YES to milk, cheese, vegetables, eggs, yogurt, fruits, dried/smoked meats or fish or meat cubes).

• Cut down on sugar-loaded snacks and beverages. (Say NO to pop/soda, Kool Aid/Tang, fruit drinks, pop tarts, candy, jellies, jams, donuts, gum, cookies, sweet rolls, sugar and honey)

• Cut down on snacking between meals.• Drink plenty of water.• Brush twice a day and floss daily.• Visit your dentist for regular oral check-ups.Resources: oregondental.org; dentistry.about.com/dental health/nutrition.htm

Medicine can help you quit smoking

Stopping smoking is the most important step that smokers can

take to improve the length and quality of their lives, according to the US Surgeon General.

It is not easy to quit smoking but it can be done. Nic-otine is the drug found in tobacco that is highly addic-tive physically and mentally. Nicotine affects many parts of the body including the heart, blood vessels, and brain.

Quitting smoking is a touchy subject for many and asking for help can be difficult. Smokers who plan a quit attempt in advance double their chance of success. It is important to know what options are available and where to go for help. The following are some tips to help stop smoking and some suggestions to help be suc-cessful in your attempt.

There are several things that can help with the physi-cal symptoms of nicotine withdrawal. Nicotine gum, inhalers, and patches are available. Two drugs are now available to help with stopping smoking. Zyban and Chantix are both available to help quit smoking. More information is available about these at the Nicotine Control and Research Program office at YKHC. An appointment can be arranged to discuss treatment options by contacting the Nicotine Control office at 1-800-478-3321 ext. 6312 or direct at 907-543-6312.

To be successful in quitting smoking it is important to identify times, people, and situations that make you want to smoke. A way to do this is to keep a journal before quitting and write down each time you have a cigarette, describe the situation, and the reason.

Once these triggers have been identified, the next step is to change your routine. For example, if you smoke with your morning coffee then switch to tea or if you have a cigarette during work breaks then take a walk instead. Use a pencil for the feeling of something in your hand; chew gum, and call friends or family for support.

see QUITTING, p. 17


18th Annual Smile Alaska Style 2007YKHC Dental Disease Prevention Program

Thank you all for joining us at Smile Alaska Style 2007. In only three hours, the dentists from YKHC Dental Dept

screened 115 patients.These participants were given goody bags containing educational materials, tooth brush, toothpaste and fl oss. The participants also had their pictures taken and they all received a door prize provided by local businesses. We all had a wonderful time. Smile Alaska Style 2007 was another success.

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Smiles of the Delta! Clockwise from top left: Robert Space, age 2, from Bethel; “Future Dentist” Ariel Charles examines Dr. Stebbins’ teeth; Connie Dull; and Kyle Jimmie, 17, both of Bethel.

Looking at the benefi ts of quitting smoking can give you a great reason to stop. By quitting smoking a person can decrease the risk of heart attack, stroke, chronic lung disease, lung cancer, other cancers, and death. The fi nancial benefi ts are good too if you consider the average annual cost of smoking is more than $3,000. Other benefi ts of quitting smoking include increased self-esteem, decreased health risk to your family and friends, a healthier and younger appearance, and no more smelly cigarette odor. Helpful websites: http://www.cancer.org/docroot/PED/content/PED_10_13X_Guide_for_Quitting_Smoking.asphttp://rxforchange.ucsf.edu/

QUITTING, from p. 16

The species were selected primarily because those birds will be trav-eling through an area known to have had Highly Pathogenic Avian Infl uenza, H5N1 detected in the local domestic birds. The species of birds identifi ed as priority species include: Tundra Swan, Lesser Snow Goose, Black Brant, Pintail, Long-tailed Duck, and King Eider.

“We appreciate all the support we received last year. This is an opportunity once again for subsistence hunters to play a key role in an important research project, and we ask that everyone who has the opportunity to contribute to please help out,” said Brian Lefferts, Field Environmental Health Offi cer for YKHC OEHE. “The results are important to the residents of the YK Delta, to Alaska, and the world.”

“People have no reason to fear hunting and eating any subsistence birds this year. Highly Pathogenic Avian Infl uenza H5N1 has not been detected in the YK Delta or elsewhere in North America,” Lef-ferts said, “It’s also important to remember that this is a bird fl u, not a human fl u. Under most conditions, it is very diffi cult for people to get sick from bird fl u, and there are no known cases of people contracting H5N1 from wild birds.”

YKHC will be providing regular updates to the people of the YK Delta about this surveillance effort, including prompt notifi cation of any positive identifi cation of the Highly Pathogenic H5N1 avian infl u-enza virus.

Still, as with all game, it’s always good to use safe handling proce-dures.

BIRD FLU STUDY, from p. 8

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financial need is still recognized. “The architectural plans are done, a land lease has been established with the City of Bethel, and we are finally moving forward with the pilings to begin this summer,” Lee said. The Denali Commission has granted $7.29 million dollars towards the $10.56 million state-of-the-art facility.

Delegates from the Yukon voiced their concern about the possibil-ity of developing a home to serve the Elders in their region. “We are aware of the need and hope to have Assisted Living Homes in each of our Subregional villages in the future, however, we must start with step one and that is, in order to keep our Elders from being sent to Anchorage, we must establish a regional facility for our Elders here in Bethel,” Peltola said.

The afternoon focused on partnerships between Tribal Councils, YKHC, and other regional and state agencies. Delegates heard pre-sentations concerning the second year of Bird Flu testing to begin this May, Public Health Nursing efforts focused on community partnerships, and a new Community & Partner Satisfaction Project that focuses on bridging communicating between tribal councils and YKHC.

Unit work group sessions gave delegates an opportunity to come together for collaborative thinking and decision-making, a rare set-ting for many leaders who are separated by land and water but act as a representative body for their communities.

Lunchtime workshops were also held both days concerning Small Community Emergency Preparedness, presented by the Alaska Native Tribal Health Consortium’s Emergency Consultant, Pete Petram. These sessions confronted the topic of emergency prepared-ness, emphasizing partnerships and the need for planning at the community level.

The second day of the conference brought awareness to the rising rates of Diabetes, Cancer, and AIDS/HIV and STDs in the region. Community leaders recognized the preventative measures needed at the community level and recognized the responsibility to initiate awareness in their communities.

Early education and outreach was a connecting theme throughout

GATHERING, from p. 11

prevent YKHC from increasing rents to market rates and revenues have not kept pace with the increased operational and maintenance expenses. In addition to this, YKHC has leased housing in the community to

provide for the temporary healthcare workforce who travel to and from the Bethel Hospital. These rental costs are no longer sustainable.The combination of reducing housing subsidy costs and eliminating outside leases will save YKHC over $200,000 this fiscal year and addresses the budget revision without greatly impacting our health care workforce. Essentially, due to the ever-changing business envi-ronment, YKHC is forced to continually evaluate programs that may cause significant expense to the company.Peltola affirms a fundamental message through this financial challenge, stating, “This is an impor-tant and challenging time for YKHC; however, we must continue to work together to maintain our mission of achieving excellent health care for our patients.”

BUDGET REVISION, from p. 3

the discussion of health concerns.

Tribal Council member Ivan Ivan of Akiak Native Community said, “We need to be active leaders and educate our people so that we fight these issues in our own communities.” Concerning the education and pre-vention of AIDS/HIV & STDs, one Elder, George Billy of Napakiak, advised commu-nities to support people who cur-rently suffer from the disease, “We must not treat them as outcasts, but support them, and use them to teach others about the disease,” said Billy.

Leaders gathered during the final moments of the gathering to vote, discuss and establish health care priorities as a unit. Using pri-ority categories identified over the past six years, each community was asked to vote and then the votes were tallied for a unified list of 10 priorities for each unit.

Elder Paul John speaks to an attentive crowd during the question and answer period fol-lowing the presentation on HIV/AIDS.

Two delegates speak earnestly during a break.


Well Child

Saturday Clinic11 a.m.–3:30 p.m.

April 28Bethel Hospital Pediatrics Clinic Registration on ER side

You must have an appointment for these Saturday clinics

To make an appointment call EPSDT program

543-6147

For Bethel Children

2 months to

6 years of age

Exams include—

Dental, Vison and

Hearing Screening,

Anemia Checks,

Immunizations if

needed

EPSDT exams

will be billed to

Medicaid, Denali

Kid Care, or private

insurance. Self-pay

option is available.

Working Together to Achieve Excellent Health

Non -Profi t Org.US Postage

PAIDAnchorage, AK

Permit # 537

Yukon-Kuskokwim Health CorporationP.O. Box 528Bethel, Alaska 99559907-543-6000


We ask. We listen.We Care

www.ykhc.orgWorking Together to Achieve Excellent Health

Documents

Volume XII No. 4 • April 15, 2007 · 1960 Zen Macrobiotic Diet 1961 Calories Don’t Count Diet 1964 Drinking Man’s Diet 1981 Beverly Hills Diet 1982 Caveman Diet 1986 Rotation