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Local Medical Academies Preparing Students for Health Careers

by CHERYL ROGERS Eighteen public schools in Polk County train students for future careers in healthcare through medical or health science programs. Here’s a look at how some of them have fared. Katya Viegas and Janet Hernandez are heading to medical school. Jesus Jimenez, or J.J., is glad he found an incentive to finish high…
Pop Quiz: Facts and Stats about Immunizations

by ERIKA ALDRICH August is National Immunization Awareness Month, and it’s a good time to explore the topic of immunizations around the globe. The efforts to immunize people against debilitating and life-threatening diseases is a global initiative that we are all a part of. Test your knowledge of facts and statistics about immunizations by taking…
Tips to Prepare for the New School Year

by Mary Toothman It’s that time of year again: School supply aisles will be flooded with parents and children, clutching lists of what is required. First-day-of-school outfits will be carefully selected by many students. Late-morning sleep-ins will be replaced by early wake-up calls. Back to school means many things to parents and students — some…

Bleeding with a Bowel Movement

A concerning complaint from patients, that causes grave concern is that of rectal bleeding ., Whether it is blood seen with a bowel movement or at the end on cleaning oneself, bleeding is worrisome and must be addressed. Not all bleeding is bright red and black, sticky tar-like stools are signs of bleeding as well.…
Tips to Keep Your Mouth Happy During 4th of July Celebrations

The Fourth of July is a time of great celebration, and no one wants the fun times ruined by mouth pain or an unexpected trip to the dentist. Remember to take care to keep your mouth happy this Fourth of July during all of the fun and festivities by following a few easy tips. …
Peak AWC: Your Personal Inspectors

You may have heard of the Annual Wellness Visit and wondered, “Is that something I need, since I already had my yearly physical?” The answer is a definite “Yes!” You see, your body is a temple. It’s your home for your entire life. Just like a traditional house, your body needs some inspecting and maintenance…