When Valerie Kemp’s severe headaches returned after three years, she knew exactly where she needed to go for help: somewhere she felt heard and seen. In 2019, just two months after she moved to Tulsa, Kemp spent weeks in and out of emergency rooms, trying to find someone who could treat a tremendous headache. “I…

Information requests about vasectomies have increased across the country since the Supreme Court’s decision that overturned Roe v. Wade. Urologists in California, Iowa and New York told The Washington Post that they’ve seen “a massive increase in the number of vasectomy consultations, as well as an increase in website traffic on their pages that offer information about…

Immunizations provide numerous benefits for adolescents. Kaleb Vaughn, D.O., pediatrician and internal medicine specialist for Utica Park Clinic Pryor, discusses the importance of child immunizations. • Why is it important for my child to follow the recommended immunization schedule? The vaccination schedule is based on decades of research on the child’s immune system, their response to vaccines…

Wellness visits can provide numerous patient benefits, according to Jeffrey Galles, D.O., chief medical officer of Utica Park Clinic. “The definition of a wellness visit is unique to each patient,” Galles said. “We want to guide our patient’s care and optimize their health down the road.” Wellness visits help primary care providers target their care based…

Tara Linville, PA-C, who practices dermatology with Utica Park Clinic, shares skin safety tips for older adults as they embark on outdoor activities this spring and summer. “As older adults get outside and have increased sun exposure, it is important to wear protective clothing, including a wide-brim hat and sunglasses,” Linville said. “They also need…

(March 30 is National Doctors’ Day. Utica Park Clinic would like to thank our physicians for the dedication and passion they show for their patients. In honor of National Doctors’ Day, we would like to spotlight palliative care specialist, James Ross, M.D.) Palliative care typically plays a critical role in patient care. The COVID-19 pandemic…

Debra Johnson had dealt with carpal tunnel pain in both hands for two decades. Her years as an elementary school computer teacher and computer software company worker had taken its toll on her hands. The Tonkawa resident struggled to maintain a firm grip on many objects in her hands. “I couldn’t even sleep with the…

Timmeni Stevens, D.O., with Utica Park Clinic at Hillcrest South, spoke with News On 6 about the rising number of pregnant women developing severe COVID-19 symptoms and how vaccination can help. “Unfortunately, we’ve seen a rise in severe illness and even death in our pregnant and postpartum patients. It’s at an alarming rate right now…

The summer presents common seasonal injury opportunities. Pamela Grafton, D.O., from Utica Park Clinic, shares possible threats and subsequent tips to keep you safe while enjoying the warm weather. • Sunburns: Exposure to the sun’s rays while outside can cause burns to unprotected skin. Tips: Use sunscreen with SPF of 30-plus and remember to reapply every two hours.…

With July 4 coming, so is the possibility for firework-related burn injuries. Here are a few tips on what to do, and what not to do, when it comes to fireworks, according to Apryl McGill, RN, Utica Park Clinic outpatient burn nurse. If a burn does occur: How to prevent firework burn injuries: What not to do: