Blog

Navigating SoonerSelect at Hillcrest

Navigating SoonerSelect at Hillcrest

Hillcrest, including Utica Park Clinic (UPC) and Oklahoma Heart Institute (OHI), is a participant in a newly developed Medicaid model for the state of Oklahoma known as SoonerSelect. SoonerSelect aims to provide more health plan options to Oklahomans who qualify for SoonerCare (Medicaid) benefits.

What is SoonerSelect?

Oklahoma Health Care Authority (OHCA) implemented a new Medicaid model called SoonerSelect, to provide health benefits through arrangements between state agencies and health insurance plans on April 1, 2024.

SoonerSelect... Read More »

New vaccine available for the 2024-25 flu season

*/

A new vaccine that fights three strains of influenza is now available from health care providers across the U.S.

The most effective way to fight the flu is to get vaccinated, says the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). While the virus can spread among the population during the entire year, the flu season is generally in the fall and winter. The peak months for the flu are December through February.

While the CDC recommends you get an annual flu vaccine by the end of October, any time you get it before the peak months will help.

Everyone 6 months... Read More »

Shattered ankle leads to replacement and rehabilitation

Tracie Darbin, 61, shown above with her great nephew Quincy, suffered a terrible injury to her left ankle that required surgery.

“About 40 years ago, I shattered my ankle and tore my Achilles tendon,” she recalled. “At that time, the best solution for reconnecting the bones was using screws, but the joint often rubbed together and was very painful.”

When her ankle remained swollen and made popping sounds while walking, the Claremore resident sought the care of Timothy McConn, DPM, FACFAS, a board-certified, fellowship-trained foot and ankle surgeon at Utica Park Clinic.

... Read More »

Osteoporosis FAQs with Anthony Echols, APRN-CNP

Osteoporosis is a disease that weakens your bones. Anthony Echols, APRN-CNP, who specializes in orthopedics at Utica Park Clinic, answered a few frequently asked questions about preventing and managing osteoporosis.

What are some effective daily self-care strategies for managing osteoporosis?

Factors that contribute to developing osteoporosis include calcium and vitamin D deficiency, lack of exercise, tobacco use and excessive alcohol use. Like most things, prevention is the key! 

Eat a well-balanced diet that includes fruits and vegetables. These foods are high in... Read More »

Endometriosis FAQs with Jessica Koshy, D.O.

Endometriosis is an often misunderstood condition, and it's crucial to address the questions and concerns surrounding it to ensure patients diagnosed with the disease can manage their symptoms. Jessica Koshy, D.O., who specializes in obstetrics and gynecology at Utica Park Clinic, answered a few frequently asked questions to shed some light on endometriosis.

1. What is endometriosis?

Endometriosis is a chronic condition where tissue similar to the lining of the uterus grows outside the uterus, typically on other pelvic organs. This can lead to pain, inflammation, and in... Read More »

Cervical Cancer Q&A

Cervical Cancer Q&A Medically reviewed by William Harris, M.D. and Amara Nandikolla, M.D.

Cervical cancer is a leading cause of cancer-related deaths among women in the United States but its impact has been significantly diminished due to effective screening and prompt treatment. According to the National Cancer Institute, approximately 13,960 women in the U.S. were diagnosed with cervical cancer last year, resulting in over 4,300 deaths. In this comprehensive blog, we explore the symptoms, testing procedures and treatment options associated with cervical cancer.

What is cervical... Read More »

UPC dermatology provides expert care to professional bodybuilder

Michael Wittig is a nationally recognized bodybuilder, fitness trainer, actor, stunt professional, bass player, husband and father of four. He’s worked on movies with stars like Leonardo DiCaprio, been featured in more than 50 magazines and was nominated for a Grammy as part of the Christian rock band, Pillar. 

After being constantly on the move and in front of the camera for years, Wittig was stopped in his tracks in 2018, when he noticed a spot on the skin of his chest.

“There was... Read More »

Biking Health Tips

*/

Cycling is a great exercise that doubles as a means of transportation. It works out the whole body and also acts as a stress reliever, improving mental as well as physical health. Chris Guinn, D.O., who specializes in family medicine at Utica Park Clinic in Broken Arrow, is a cycling enthusiast. He shares how consistent cycling can benefit your health, and the best way to get started on a cycling journey.

A Whole Body Exercise

“Cycling as a routine form of exercise has numerous health benefits including maintaining healthy weight, increased cardiovascular and... Read More »

Back-To-School Tips for Parents

As summer winds down and classes begin for students, families may need to make some changes around their households to help children make the back-to-school adjustment. Brandon Rawlinson, D.O., who specializes in family medicine at Utica Park Clinic - Owasso North, has these six tips to help keep students healthy and productive during the upcoming school year.

1. Establish a routine

After a summer of outdoor fun and potentially later bedtimes, getting back into a regular school schedule can be a challenge for some families. Dr. Rawlinson said getting started early is the key... Read More »

How heat affects multiple sclerosis patients

People with multiple sclerosis (MS) may find hot summer months in Oklahoma particularly unbearable. This condition is often accompanied by heat intolerance, which increases during the spring and summer months. Talisha Nichols, APRN-CNP, neurology specialist with Utica Park Clinic, explains why this happens and how these symptoms can be treated.

What is multiple sclerosis?

MS is a disease that affects the central nervous system (brain and spinal cord). The immune system attacks the protective sheath (myelin) that covers nerve fibers and causes communication problems between the brain... Read More »