February 2024 - Celebrating Self-Love
February is special as we celebrate love in all of its forms. And loving ourselves is often one that is spoken about in terms of “self care,” but what does that really mean? Here at DCPP, we know that self care and self love mean taking actions to ensure that you are doing right by your body and mind. Have you made an appointment with your direct primary care doctor to check in and support your health? When we take a moment to fill our own cup, we then have plenty to give to others. Don’t neglect yourself – let’s make February count.
Walk with a Doc: Winter Indoor Edition
Join the DCPP doctors who are partnering with the Jewish Community Center (JCC) of Greater Pittsburgh for an indoor edition of Walk with a Doc through March. Dr. Emily Scott will lead the walks on Feb. 13 and March 12 at 5738 Forbes Ave., in Squirrel Hill. We’ll be joined by some of our PT colleagues from Drayer Physical Therapy Institute.
NOTE: If you are not a member of the JCC, you will have to register as a guest with the JCC upon arrival. No other registration is necessary for this free series. All are welcome!
Updates from our Docs
If you are a patient of Dr. Kirsten Lin: Deedra will be on vacation from Feb. 10-17. During that time, Dr. Lin’s temporary receptionist, Jen, will be helping at the office, except on Feb. 14. On that day, please text Dr. Lin directly with urgent needs.
Dr. Ashley Loughner has decided to take on some new adventures and will no longer be seeing patients as of Feb. 1. We wish her well in her future endeavors!
DCPP in the News
Dr. Gentile has a regular segment on KDKA-TV’s talk show, “TALK Pittsburgh.” See her segment at 3 p.m. every other Wednesday to discuss the health issues that matter most to you! If you missed them, watch her latest segments on the CBS Pittsburgh website.
The latest vaccine information
Did You Know: There is a new pneumonia vaccine called PCV20. This is for children, senior citizens and some adults considered to be high risk. Please ask your direct primary care doc if you qualify and how it could support your overall health. To learn more CLICK HERE.
Updated COVID-19 vaccines: It’s a good time to get your updated COVID vaccines as we are seeing many cases around the region. The vaccine can help prevent severe illness, hospitalization and death, as well as reduce your chances of long COVID. Dr. Gentile and Dr. Scott have them available at their respective offices. Please schedule with your DCPP physician today HERE.
- FAQs:
- Does insurance cover the COVID-19 vaccine? Most insurances will cover the vaccine at DCPP, but it's important to check with your physician first for support with evaluating your insurance's coverage. Most pharmacies now have the vaccine, as well. We can’t predict which plans will cover the vaccine so it's always important to contact the pharmacy first to check about coverage. Visit this website to find the vaccine options near you.
- What if I don’t have insurance? Can I still get the COVID-19 vaccine? Because this COVID-19 vaccine is now part of routine use, it's not being covered or offered at a lower cost. Learn more here and talk with your DCPP doctor to discuss your options.
- MORE RESOURCES: A guide for navigating cold-and-flu season and guidelines for Paxlovid for COVID-19 are available on the DCPP website under “Patient Resources.”
ICYMI | RSV Vaccine: The FDA has approved two new RSV vaccines for older adults. They are currently available at several pharmacies. People can visit their local pharmacy’s website for more information. It can be given concurrently with a flu shot but not with a COVID-19 vaccine. Talk to your DCPP doctor to see if it's a good choice for you.
Still need a flu shot? DCPP can help!
- Patients can schedule an appointment online for a flu shot with Dr. Gentile’s office in the East End.
DCPP Allison Park with Dr. Lin will be offering flu shots (both regular ones for ages 6 months to 64 years and high-dose ones for those 65 and older) from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Mondays through Thursdays by appointment. Sign up for an appointment online.
Recipe of the month: Oatmeal Breakfast Bake with Berries and Almonds
INGREDIENTS:
- 3 cups rolled oats
- 3 cups unsweetened, vanilla or unflavored plant-based milk
- ½ cup raisins
- ¼ cup pure maple syrup or agave
- 1½ tablespoons pure vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 cup fresh or frozen raspberries
- 1 cup fresh or frozen blueberries
- ½ cup sliced almonds or another nut that you like!
INSTRUCTIONS:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F.
- In a 2-quart baking dish combine the first six ingredients (through cinnamon). Add ¾ cup water and mix well.
- Top oatmeal mixture with raspberries, blueberries and almonds.
- Bake for 40 minutes or until bubbly around edges and heated through.
- Let stand for 10 minutes. Serve warm.
Note: To prep in advance, complete Step 1 and cover the baking dish with tin foil. Chill in the fridge overnight or up to two days. When ready to serve, continue with Step 2.
Patient Spotlight: Would you like to be featured?
Would you like to be spotlighted? Do you know another DCPP patient who would make for a great profile? Let us know, and you could be featured in a future newsletter.