Staffing Updates

Announcing New and Returning Team Members

 

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Meghan Houdashelt, MA
 

We’re excited to welcome Meghan Houdashelt back to Priority Physicians in the Indianapolis office. Many of you will recognize Meghan as a familiar face as she previously worked with us for over 5 years. She has rejoined our team at the beginning of November, 2019. She will be coordinating the patient care on behalf of Dr. Craig Veatch and will also assist with clinical phlebotomy care of the entire practice. Meghan resides in Lebanon, Indiana with her husband Chris and son Dean.

 

 

 

Michael Wilson, MBA, BSN, RN, NE-BC

Michael Wilson joined Priority Physicians in October, 2019.  Michael graduated from Indiana State with a Bachelors in Nursing and also holds a Masters in Business Administration. He brings with him experience from previously working in medical practice administration with St. Vincent Medical Group and served in multiple clinical and leadership roles while previously at IU Health. In his role as Director of Operations, he leads the daily operations and supports the entire team with a focus on all aspects of our patients’ experiences,

 

Gabby Sullivan is happy to announce the arrival of her new baby girl, Olivia!
Mom and baby are both in good health! Gabby plans to stay at home to care for Olivia, but you may still see her around from time to time. Gabby will be staying on with us to help cover in the office as needed and available.

 

Flu Season Is Here!

Flu Prevention

The best way to prevent serious illness from the flu virus is to get your annual flu vaccine. The CDC recommends that most people over 6 months of age get vaccinated annually. If you have not yet received your flu shot, please call our office to schedule a visit! Other important ways to prevent getting the flu are to wash your hands frequently and to avoid contact with individuals who are already sick.
 
What to do if you get the Flu?

You can still get the flu even if you receive the flu vaccine; however, getting the flu vaccine can make your illness less severe and shorter in duration. If you do get the flu, stay home from work or school to prevent spreading the flu to others. Antiviral medications are available that can treat the flu and are most effective when started within 48 hours after onset of symptoms and can prevent serious flu complications if started after 48 hours. Contact your physician as soon as possible if you suspect that you have the flu to discuss what treatment options may be right for you.

Nutrition Corner

Common Diet Setbacks during the Holiday Season—What can be done?

 

Over the years, I’ve had patients tell me that while they love the holiday season, they hate what it does to their diet/waistline.  While there can be many contributing factors to this, I’ve narrowed down three of the most common pitfalls we come across.  I’ll call them The Three P’s.  They are:

So, let’s address each one of these P’s by reviewing why they can be problematic, and go over some possible solutions that may work for you.

Parties: 
The problem: “I have to attend so many of these, and it’s hard to stop myself”
Solution/s: 

• Have a game plan before attending. If you can, be informed of what will be served, so that you can choose ahead of time what you will eat.
• Don’t deny yourself completely!  Food is good, and you should allow yourself to enjoy it—just remember to savor smaller amounts. 

 Potables:
The problem:  Alcoholic beverages, as well as “holiday drinks” at many restaurants and coffeeshops are hard to resist, but pack a big calorie punch! 
Solution/s:

• Avoid the mixed drinks and ciders when you can, and aim for wines or low/no-calorie mixers with liquors. 
• Holiday drinks at places like Starbucks typically have lower calorie options. While I’m not a huge fan of sugar substitutes, these are better choices than the sugar-heavy alternatives! 
• If you must have eggnog, mulled wine, or other seasonally-specific beverage, keep it to one drink only, and reduce your serving size.

 Pressure:
The problem:  Family, friends and co-workers can all add some peer pressure to try and get you to eat more than what you might want.
Solution/s:  While I intend to write a full article about this specific topic in the future, here are some quick ideas….

• If possible, have a “buddy” or accountability partner with you.  Together, you can support your healthy decisions and as a unit, fight off phrases like, “oh come on!  Another slice of cake isn’t going to kill you!”
• Remember:  it’s probably more about them than it is about you.  While they may not be directly aware of it, some of your friends/family may be jealous of your commitment to healthy choices, as your health makes them look at some of their own behaviors.  Continue to set a healthy example, and you may end up inspiring others!
• Worried you’ll offend someone by not eating their food?  If you can, put some on your plate, take a bite or two, and leave it at that.  That way, you can be polite and appreciate what someone else has made, but haven’t derailed your plans!

 Hopefully you’ll be able to implement some of these into your holiday season, and not have to worry about “starting over” in 2020!  Happy holidays, and have a Happy New Year!