Independent Supplement produced by Borinquen Medical Centers of Miami -Dade for Miami Herald
Issue No. 44
September 2015
President’s Note: FLAGAMI CENTER
located at 5040 N.W. 7TH ST. IS NOW OPEN! Our
modern 12-exam room facility has separate service
areas and entrances for both adults and pediatric
clients. As a celebration of our Grand Opening, during
the month of September, visitors to the clinic who do
not have insurance may receive a primary care medical
visit for $10 and $5 for any associated ordered
laboratory tests. Individuals who have insurance, are
welcomed also and will receive a special gift along
with their physical exam.
To enjoy these benefits you must call and make an appointment so that
we may serve you better at the time of your visit. Individuals who would
like to receive information on insurance eligibility are welcomed. We can
help you with Medicaid, Medicare and Obama Care health plan information.
On a special note, Borinquen Medical Centers of Miami Dade is proud to
announce that once again the organization has been reaccredited by
AAAHC and continues to maintain the highest designated Medical Home
Level Three status.
Call and visit us at any of our convenient locations. We are here to
welcome and serve you.
~ Robert Linder, President/CEO
Above from L: Nestor Chardon Board; Jose Martir, Jocelyn Michel, Board; Comm. Willy Gort; Comm. Rebecca Sosa; Eva Perez Chair;
Deborah Ponce, Board; Guests, Robert E. Linder, CEO; Ivette Velez, Vice Chair; City of Miami Mayor, Tomás Regalado, Dr. Deborah
Gracia; Paul Velez, CAO; Marianne Finizio, Clear Health Alliance; Ben Neji, Margarita Vroman, RN; Dr. Jesus Negrette at the n ew
Borinquen Medical Centers at Flagami, 5040 NW 7th Street, Thursday, August 13, 2015, Grand opening, ribbon cutting ceremony.
BMC AT FLAGAMI OPENS WITH FANFARE
~ by Susan Alvarez and Anna Smith
The
excitement
had been
mounting
for over a
year and
the day
finally
arrived when Borinquen Medical
Centers of Miami-Dade BMC opened
its doors to the Flagami neighborhood.
BMC is proud to support and
congratulate the National Association of
Community Health Centers’ (NACHC)
on their 50th anniversary during
National Health Center Week this past
August and in celebrating 50 years of
success in providing the uninsured and
medically underserved with access to
affordable, quality primary and
preventative healthcare services. To
show their support, BMC hosted an
extraordinary event of their own by
conducting a ribbon cutting ceremony
for the grand opening of their newest
medical center; Borinquen Medical
Centers at Flagami on Thursday, August
13th.
Many of BMC’s supporters, business
partners, providers, senior staff, and
government officials were in attendance
as well as many locals who wandered in
to see what all the festivities were
about. Mr. Carl Velez, CAO welcomed
the guests and in his statement,
reiterated that opening up a Medical
Center in the Flagami Neighborhood
was indeed a team effort between local
government officials, supporters and the
community. Velez acknowledged and
thanked Commissioner Rebecca Sosa to
thunderous applause. Since they were
allotted the Flagami area grant award in
2014, the County Commissioner had
tirelessly worked with BMC to bring
additional access to affordable primary
health care to her district.
Velez went on to say that there was
one person in particular that has been
leading this team to victory ever since
he became CEO, and introduced Mr.
Robert ‘Bob’ Linder, who then went on
to thank and introduce Mr. Tom Van
Coverden, President & CEO of the
National Association of Community
Health Centers, (NACHC) to the
audience.
Linder then thanked and introduced
but through the process of
Federally Qualify Health
Centers, it does work
when it comes to us because without
their funding, we would not be able to
board members, Eva Pérez, Chair, Ivette
he was just 15 years old at the time. He
Velez, Vice Chair, Nestor A. Chardon,
said everyone that works at Borinquen
Jocelyn Michel,
Deborah Ponce, Jose
Quiñones, and Hilda
Rivera. Bob stated,
“They have spent
many hours
volunteering and have
given years of support
to our organization,
without them we
would not be here
today if they didn’t
support our mission.”
He went on to say, “If
you can believe in the
mission to serve people
who are in need every
day, it’s fun to come to
work every day, it’s
hard work! And our
mission at Borinquen
is to provide the very
best health care we can
at a very affordable
price and also at the
Above from L: Commissioner Willy Gort; City of Miami Mayor, Tomás Regalado; Robert E. Linder, CEO; Commissioner Rebecca Sosa; Paul Velez,
same time, doing so in CAO; Linder and Tom Van Coverden, President & CEO, NACHC; Linder addressing the community; Commissioner Sosa cutting the ribb on.
a setting that gives our patients respect.
should be very, very proud of how far
open this clinic, so thanks to the Bureau
They deserve to have a clinic like this.
they have come and what they’ve done.
of Primary Care for selecting us.”
Rebecca Sosa’s district deserves to have
And, that he knows that they do the
The participants then moved outside
a clinic like this. We are going to
work that they do, out of love because
where a series of multiple ribbon
provide, hopefully to thousands of
he knows the pay isn’t that great and the
cuttings took place, the reason being
individuals, access to quality health care
work is very hard. He thanked everyone
that the medical center has two very
and we hope to be able to do that for a
for doing the work and for being here in
different entrances; one for Adult
long, long time. I thank you all again for
Flagami. He read from the
Medicine and the other for Pediatrics.
being here.”
congratulatory certificate before preThe City of Miami Mayor, Tomás
senting it to Mr. Linder, which read in
Sunshine State Health Plan
Regalado spoke on the importance of
part, “To Borinquen Medical Center,
Claims
FACHC Award at Summit
the Flagami area and how it mirrors the
Clínica Borinquen, in the occasion of
~by
Anna
Smith with Susan Alvarez
diversity of the city of Miami with hard
the grand opening, the city wishes to
As a Federally Qualified Health Center
working, good people. Regalado stated,
pay tribute and congratulate the board
(FQHC) and proud member of the
“However, we do have pockets of povof directors and staff for their continued
Florida Association of Community
erty in this community. The needs for
dedicated services and contributions to
Health Centers (FACHC), Borinquen
this clinic has been here long before you
our residents for the last 43 years.” Gort
Medical Centers (BMC), understands
guys started planning this and we thank
then introduced fellow Commissioner,
the important role that community
you for that. Borinquen is an example
Sosa, with “She is the Madrina
health centers play in providing the
for what we need in this community,
(Godmother) of Flagami” which
public with access to affordable and
what we need in this world, when you
garnered a good laugh from the crowd.
exceptional health care services. In orwalk into Borinquen, everyone is taken
Sosa thanked everyone at the event
der for organizations like BMC to better
care of, no questions asked and that’s
and shared that she is a cancer survivor
serve the public, FACHC provides adimportant.”
and values how important health care is
vocacy, resources and assistance to
With that, the mayor then gave the
for everyone. She stated that she was
Florida’s many FQHCs to ensure that
floor to Commissioner Wilfredo (Willy)
very proud that this clinic was opening
they can continue to deliver health care
Gort, District 1. The Commissioner
in her district and presented another
services to their communities. By
stated that to him, health is the most
certificate to Mr. Linder who expressed
educating federal, state and local policyimportant thing that we can have. He
in closing, “I know that people commakers on the ever changing and evolvsaid he had been involved with
plain that the federal government
ing issues related to the field of
Borinquen over 40 years and joked that
doesn’t work and sometimes it doesn’t,
>>p 3
healthcare and the
As we go to print …
Borinquen Medical Centers of Miami-Dade provides a comprehensive range of health and social services to our culturally diverse community.
community.
Services Provided
PRIMARY CARE:
• Adult Internal Medicine
• Pediatrics / Adolescent
• Obstetrics - Gynecology
• Healthy Start - TOPWA
• Family Planning
• Deliveries
• Dental Health
• Outreach,
HIV/STD Testing and
Counseling
• Prevention Education
• Case Management
• Chronic Disease Care
i.e. Diabetes/Hypertension
• Behavioral Health
President’s Note and Cover Story: Page 1
Community News, Calendar: Pages 2 & 3
Providers: ……………………...….. Page 3
Kids & Did you know? ................... Page 4
Awareness & World Recipe: . Pages 5 & 6
Jobs Openings, Horoscopes, Sports: Page 8
Around the Corner & Arts: .......... Page 9
BMC Locations: .......................... Page 12
• Psychiatry
• Substance Abuse
• Nutritionist
• Health Connect in Our
School
SPECIALTY CARE:
• Podiatry
• Orthopedics
• Cardiology
• X-Rays / Sonograms
• Electrocardiograms
• Pharmacy
340B Discount Program
• Eligibility Services:
Medicaid, PEPW, ACA
• Speech Therapy
BORINQUEN MEDICAL CENTERS OF MIAMI-DADE
3601 Federal Highway
Miami, Florida 33137
www.borinquenhealth.org
Ph: (305) 576-6611 * Fax: (786) 476-2819
CLASSES OFFERED:
• Diabetes
• Child Birth
• Breastfeeding
• Parenting
• Interconceptional
Counseling
(By appointment)
Editors & Designers:
Susan Alvarez & Anna Smith
Staff Photographer:……. Susan Alvarez
Contributors:…. Robert E. Linder, CEO
Angel Camacho, Teresa Mazard-Diaz,
Silvana Vasquez, Dr. Deborah Gracia,
Barbara Kubilus, CSPO, Carmen Pineiro,
Toni de la Barra, RN
September 2015 / Issue No. 44
Independent Supplement produced by Borinquen Medical Centers of Miami -Dade for Miami Herald
Suicide Prevention Month
~by Carmen
Pineiro, MS Mental Health
and Substance
Abuse
Counselor
According to
the National
Institute of
Mental Health,
approximately 11 out of 100,000 people
commit suicide. Every 13 minutes
someone in the United States commits
suicide. Those over 65 years old are at
the highest risk of following through
with suicide. Men are more than 4 times
likelier to commit suicide as opposed to
women. American Indian and Alaskan
Natives have the highest suicide rates
and non-Hispanic blacks have the lowest
suicide rate in comparison with other
racial groups.
The following risk factors increase the
chances that an individual will commit
suicide:
Substance use
Mental health conditions
Chronic health conditions
Chronic pain
Stress
Obesity
Most of the times there are signs of an
individual’s intent of suicide. One way
of prevention is to recognize warnings
signs and know how to respond when
noticed. Warning signs of suicide
include:
Mood swings
Getting affairs in order, giving away
possessions
Saying goodbye, unexpected calls to
family and friends
Writing about death or dying
Seeking for weapons, drugs, pills
Talk about suicide
No hope for the future, feeling hopeless
or helpless
Feelings of worthlessness
Suicide prevention programs vary
depending on the individual and the risk
factors involved. For example, if
someone is struggling with posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and
substance use, the primary focus would
be treating these disorders in addition to
addressing the suicide risk.
Psychotherapy has been shown to reduce
suicide risk effectively. Different modes
of therapy include:
Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT)
helps individuals learn new ways of
coping with stressful situations or
thoughts and prevent suicidal behavior.
Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) is
another alternative which helps an
individual recognize when their feelings
or actions are unhealthy and teaches new
skills to deal better with situations.
Acceptance and commitment therapy
(ACT) teaches to fully contact the
present moment and to behave in ways
that are consistent with ones values.
Suicide is a very difficult and
uncomfortable topic to discuss. There is
help. If you are experiencing any of the
warning signs or know of anyone who
may be, there is help. The National
Suicide Prevention Lifeline provides
free, 24 hour assistance at
1-800-273-TALK (8255). Feel free to
contact our Behavioral Health
Department at 305-576-1599 and asked
to speak to one of our experienced
counselors.
You are not alone, call for help:
305-576-1599 Ext. 3117
100 NE 38 St Suite #5, Miami, FL 33137
Email: [email protected]
FREE
MAMMOGRAMS!
Dr. Deborah Gracia, Chief Medical
Officer for BMC, would like to remind
our community that our Project Screen
contract with the Miami-Dade
Department of Health now includes
additional procedures and testing such as
Colposcopy and (Human
Papillomavirus) HPV testing. This
allows Borinquen to provide complete
holistic services to women between the
ages of 50-65.
In addition, our partnership with
Florida International University (FIU)
Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine
continues to provide FREE
Mammograms with their state of the art
3D Mobile Mammography Unit to our
patients. The 3D mobile unit is
stationed at BMC’s main site parking lot
twice a month, with flexible schedules.
Setting your appointment is easy and
Toni de la Barra, R.N. OB/GYN
Clinical Office Manager says the best
way to get on the waiting list is to call
the OB/GYN Department at
305-576-6611, X1407. You will need to
provide your name, date of birth, a
working phone number and an
emergency secondary phone number, as
well as the name of your provider so that
the referral for the mammogram can be
pulled. In order to qualify for the FREE
3D mammography breast exam, you
need to meet the following criteria:
1) Uninsured
2) Women aged 40 and up
3) Lives within Miami-Dade County
4) No POSITIVE Breast symptoms, i.e.
pain in breast, nipple discharge, lumps of
any kind (these symptoms will required
further investigation and will need more
Diagnostic Mammograms.)
The Voice of the Caribbean 70k plus readers
2
Please call: 305-576-6611
or email: Ben Neji at [email protected]
Image courtesy of stockimages at FreeDigitalPhotos.net
Yes, you can now reach out and get your message
in front of thousands of people in our local
community every month!
If you would like to advertise in Borinquen’s
Andrea Angarita,
LPN
Internal Medicine
Department
~by Anna Smith
Borinquen Medical Centers (BMC) is
proud to introduce the newest member of
the Internal Medicine nursing team;
Andrea Angarita, Licensed Practical
Nurse (LPN)! Born and raised in
Queens, New York, Andrea is a
Columbian American mother of two who
enjoys reading, art, dancing, going to the
beach and spending quality time with her
wonderful family, just as much as she
loves her career in healthcare.
Originally, Andrea pursued a career in
Home Health Care where she was able to
incorporate her passion for helping
others in her community through her
work as a personal Aide. After 10 years
of dedicating herself to her profession,
she decided to take her career a step
further by enrolling in nursing school in
Richmond, Virginia. Following her
graduation, Andrea gained valuable
experience in the realm of nursing by
working in rehabilitation, substance
abuse detox, health geriatrics and
hospice, but eventually decided to
specialize in family medicine.
As an LPN, Andrea firmly believes
that her profession is vital to the
community, especially for those who are
in need of healthcare services, but lack
the resources to gain access to them. It
was for this reason that she decided to
join the BMC team this past June. Her
greatest experience since joining BMC
has been the warm reception she has
received from both the organization and
her clients since her arrival. When asked
what advice she has to offer to our
readers, she quickly emphasized the
importance of being proactive in your
health by educating yourself, always
asking questions and utilizing support
groups when you are in need of
information and understanding from
others. Andrea says she hopes to be with
BMC for the long haul and we at BMC
could not be happier to have her on
board. We warmly welcome Andrea
Angarita to the team!
September 2015
Borinquen Calendar of Events
In honor of the Labor Day Holiday, Borinquen
Medical Centers will be closed on
Monday, September 7th.
HEALTHY START CLASSES - are held at Borinquen Medical
Centers, Main Site, 3601 Federal Hwy, 2nd Floor, Miami, FL 33137,
Please call: 305-576-6611 Ext. 1414
Car Seat distribution and instruction is done monthly depending on
availability. Free Pregnancy Testing is available on the 4th Floor
*TOPWA Pregnancy Testing:
·Monday - Wednesday 8:00 AM - 3:00 PM
·Thursday - No pregnancy testing
·Friday - 8:00 AM - 3:00 PM
Childbirth, Parenting & Breast Feeding Classes:
held at Borinquen Medical Centers, Main Site,
3601 Federal Hwy, Miami FL 33137, 2nd Floor.
Please call: 305-576-6611 Ext. 1414
·Tues. - Childbirth, Parenting & Breastfeeding
10:00 AM-11:00 AM
(Creole/English)
·Weds. - Parenting & Breastfeeding 10:00 AM-11:00 AM
(Spanish/English)
·Thurs. - Childbirth, Parenting & Breastfeeding 10:00 AM-11:00 AM
(Spanish/English)
·3rd Sat. Every Month - Childbirth, Parenting & Breastfeeding:
10:00 AM-11:00 AM (Spanish/English)
*SHARED MEDICAL APPOINTMENT - Due to the construction and
internal complications, Shared Medical Appointments are currently on hold. Please
call Alexander Lugones, Chronic Disease Nurse Educator, at:
786-715-0723 for any further questions. Interested patients will be
contacted once Shared Medical Appointments resume.
*HIV GROUP - Every Monday from 2:00PM - 4:00PM at 100 NE 38th Street,
Ste. 105. Please call Carmen Pinero at: 305-576-1599 Ext. 3117 for additional
information on how to join.
*SMOKE CESSATION SESSIONS - By appointment only. Available in English
and Spanish. Please call Jessica Cajigas, our Tobacco Treatment
Specialist at: 305-576-1675. Participants are eligible to receive FREE
educational materials and nicotine replacement therapy (patches) through our
affiliation with the Miami-Dade AHEC Tobacco Program.
*B-CARE TOBACCO CESSATION PROGRAM - Available in English and
Spanish. Join the Behavioral Health Resource Center’s B-Care Program for FREE
group counseling to quit tobacco use. Offered every Tuesday from 2:00 PM - 3:00
PM at the Borinquen Case Management Center located at 3550 Biscayne Blvd.,
Ste. #710, Miami, FL 33137. To register for the group, please call:
Glory Ann Zapata, MS at (305) 576-6611 Ext. 1803.
Changes in Managed Medicaid Plans Offered at
Borinquen Medical Centers
YOUR AD HERE
Reach Out!
Introducing
Borinquen wants everyone to know that
we have contracts with almost ALL
available plans, as do our providers!
This even includes specialty plans, like
those for clients that are HIV positive.
Patients at Borinquen do not need to
worry; they can still see their provider
and receive services at any one of our
many locations across the County.
If you have any questions, concerns
or would like to speak with an expert,
you can call our Patient Services
Department at (305) 576-6611 to speak
with one of our knowledgeable staff
members.
Borinquen Medical Centers look
forward to continuing to provide the
upmost quality of health care to all of
our community and clients. We thank
you for your patience and understanding
while these changes are being made.
Managed Medical Assistance (MMA) Program
Statewide Medicaid Managed Care (SMMC) Program
For the MMA Specialty
Plans Region 11:
1. Magellan Complete Care
2. Positive Health Care
3. Sunshine Health
4. Clear Health Alliance
5. Freedom Health Plan
For the MMA Standard
Plans Region 11:
1. Prestige
2. Coventry
3. Simply
4. Molina
5. Preferred Medical
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.
Humana
Amerigroup
Staywell
Sunshine Health
United Healthcare
September 2015 / Issue No. 44
Independent
Supplementproduced
producedby
by Borinquen
Borinquen Medical
Miami
Herald
Independent
Supplement
MedicalCenters
Centers of
of Miami-Dade
Miami -Dadefor
for
Miami
Herald
Hillary Clinton Meet & Greet
~by Susan Alvarez
Presidential candidate
Hillary Clinton visited
Miami Florida on
Friday, July 31, 2015
and Borinquen Medical Centers of MiamiDade (BMC) was
invited to hear her
speak. Clinton first
stopped in Fort
Lauderdale where she
addressed civil-rights
organization, the
National Urban
League at their Conference
before heading to
Florida International
University (FIU) to speak on the U.S. trade embargo with Cuba. Clinton is a supporter
of eliminating the embargo and she states, “Engagement is not a silver bullet, but again
and again we see that it is more likely to hasten change, not hold it back.”
Lorella Praeli, DREAMer and immigration activist, who was recently appointed by
Clinton to be the Latino Outreach Director for her campaign, was in contact with
BMC’s Mr. Paul Carl Velez and worked with him on the details to gain access to the
invitation only event. Ms. Praeli, who was born in Peru, had lost a leg in an accident
when she was just 2 years old, was brought to the United States at age 10, and had been
undocumented for close to 13 years. Her mother, was a psychiatrist in Peru, took work
as a housekeeper to provide her family with a better life in the States. Praeli graduated
summa cum laude from Quinnipiac University where she announced her undocumented
status and thus began her path as a DREAMer. Although Praeli now has her green card,
family members remain undocumented, so immigration issues are forefront on the
agenda.
Thanks to Praeli efforts, BMC staff and board members were invited to meet & greet
Mrs. Hillary Clinton in a clutch of about 50 community leaders before she took to the
stage to address the invitation only crowd of about 200 people at FIU. Representing
BMC were, Mr. Robert Linder, CEO, Mr. Paul Carl Velez, CAO, Mrs. Eva Perez,
Board Chair, Mr. Luis de Rosa, Board Member and Ms. Susan Alvarez, Editor of The
Voice. Mrs. Clinton greeted each one, spent a few minutes chatting and mentioned that
she had heard BMC was doing great work in Miami which was encouraging to hear.
These types of meetings are essential for BMC, a non-profit medical facility designated
by the Federal Government as a Federally Qualified Health Center, as they serve to
bring attention and resources, as well as remind officials of the important work that is
needed and which allows us to continue to provide the essential health care to those
individuals in our community who would not otherwise be able to afford the care they
desperately need.
References/sources: https://www.hillaryclinton.com, https://www.facebook.com/Hillary2016
Sunshine State Health Plan Claims FACHC Award at Summit
>p1
essential role that health centers
play in it, FACHC has proven
to be a vital component for
FQHC’s. Under the leadership
of FACHC’s current President
and CEO, Andrew R. Behrman,
FACHC has continued its
mission of improving access to
quality health services by
bringing agencies, legislators
and key persons together to
The Sunshine Health Team standing with Andrew Behrman, FACHC CEO; Pat Mabe,
discuss healthcare policies,
FACHC Board Chair 2014-15, CEO, Community Health Centers of Pinellas
regulations and laws.
Most recently, the organization conducted its annual meeting and educational
summit on the week of July 12th through the 15th at the Vinoy Renaissance Resort in St.
Petersburg, Florida. Borinquen’s CEO, Bob Linder, attended the conference where he
participated in a variety of workshops and meetings geared towards the betterment of
our community health centers with a wealth of useful and informative topics. The
moderated session provided conference participants with the opportunity to ask
questions of the legislative panel, thus allowing FACHC to continue its mission of
improving health care services through an open forum of discussion and the promotion
of cohesiveness between health centers and policymakers alike.
The annual summit is further used to honor outstanding individuals and
organizations in the vast realm of health care who have illustrated exceptional
commitment to the cause of community healthcare in the State of Florida. These
individuals and entities have tirelessly worked to increase access to primary healthcare
and to reduce the lingering disparities in health. This year, Sunshine State Health Plan
was bestowed the Lois Potter Hill Community Health Partnership Award to recognize
their role in the advancement of health services provided to the underserved through
financial, material and voluntary services to the community, as well as their efforts to
raise public awareness on health related topics. Present to accept this prestigious award
was Sunshine’s CEO Chris Paterson, who was honored to have his organization receive
the award. Sunshine State Health Plan offers a variety of Health Insurance Marketplace
products including Medicare, Healthy Kids and is part of the larger Centene
Corporation.
Chris Paterson is currently the CEO of Sunshine State Health Plan and holds a
number of accolades and esteemed positions under his belt. He graduated from Ohio
State University where he received his undergraduate, MA and Ph.D. Eventually, Mr.
Paterson relocated to Florida where he interned at the University of Florida and later
served on the faculty of the University of Miami. His extensive career experience
includes being the former CEO of CareGuide, president Tennessee Behavioral Health,
regional president of UnitedHealth Group’s AmeriChoice Corporation, CEO of
AmeriChoice health plans in Pennsylvania and EVP of Merit Behavioral Care
Corp. He has shown exceptional leadership skills and currently works for a number of
prestigious groups and programs in Florida. If that wasn’t enough; Mr. Paterson was
previously appointed by Florida Governor, Rick Scott, to serve on the Medical Home
Task Force and Intergovernmental Transfer Technical Advisory Panel. It comes as no
surprise that he has guided Sunshine to excellence in the field of health care.
Dr. Leila Charlemagne
Resource Center into the powerhouse it is today.
Dr. Charlemagne received her Bachelor of Arts
Degree in Psychology from Florida International
~by Anna Smith with Susan Alvarez
University, Miami. Both her Masters of Science in
Dr. Leila Charlemagne, PsyD, is a passionate team
Psychology with Utmost Distinction and Doctorate of
member at Borinquen Medical Centers (BMC) who has
helped the organization to evolve into the comprehensive Psychology are from Carlos Albizu University in Miami,
Florida. During her tenure at BMC, she has contributed
community health center it is today. Joining the
Behavioral Health team in 2007, Dr. Charlemagne began to and has been featured in multiple medical publications
and studies such as the National Association of
her career at BMC as the Coordinator for the Substance
Community Health Centers' Community Health
Abuse Targeted Outreach & Pretreatment Program
Forum - Fall/Winter 2012.
(STOPP). She came onboard as a talented, young
psychologist with a strong clinical, managerial, and
supervisory background, making her a perfect fit for
BMC’s growing Behavioral Health Program. With her
past experience in the field of behavioral health, Dr.
Charlemagne understood the relationship between
substance abuse and HIV. She hired a front line staff
with cultural connections with their intended clients and/
or first-hand experiences with substance abuse recovery
to better form a Behavioral Health team that could
engage their clients’ addiction treatment all while
reducing the risk of HIV infection or transmission.
Furthermore, Dr. Charlemagne used BMC’s Outreach
Team along with the STOPP program to ensure that their
Behavioral Health team at 7th annual Emilio Lopez Health Fair
clients would be linked to all of the health care services
with Dr. Leila Charlemagne, 2nd fromright
they needed at BMC. By taking these measures and
creating a culturally competent environment in which her
While she started off as the STOPP program
employees understood how their clients’ culture affected coordinator, Dr. Charlemagne quickly advanced to
their disposition to receiving care, getting tested and
become the Director of the entire Behavioral Health
remaining compliant with treatment plans, Dr.
Resource Center and has guided her department to
Charlemagne was able to guide the Behavioral Health
claiming multiple awards and accreditations throughout
her tenure. In 2010, the Behavioral Health department
was awarded the Substance Abuse & Mental Health
Services (SAMHSA) grant, allowing the center to
provide outpatient substance abuse and HIV prevention
services. The $2 million grant further allowed the
department to expand and open their own facility on NE
38th street, where they are still located today (see back
page for full address and phone number). That same
year, they received a national award from SAMHSA for
their outstanding scores in their substance abuse
program. The following year, the Behavioral Health and
Outreach departments jointly won the Annapolis
Coalition’s Behavioral Health Workforce Practices/
Pace Setter Award and in 2012, the Agency for Health
Care Administration (AHCA) and Magellan Complete
Care officially labeled the Behavioral Health Resource
Center a Designated Community Mental Center.
Today, BMC’s Behavioral Health Resource Center
continues to grow and flourish under Dr. Charlemagne’s
lead. From a small department with only one
psychiatrist, the center now hosts a psychologist/
director, multiple psychiatrists, substance abuse and
mental health counselors, psychiatric residents and even
graduate students. The center also offers a wide range of
mental health, substance abuse and outreach services in
English, Spanish and Creole to their culturally diverse
clients. BMC’s Behavioral Health Resource Center
would not be the acclaimed mental health facility it is
today without the diligent leadership and years of
passionate service conducted by Dr. Leila Charlemagne!
Have You Met Our Providers?
Borinquen’s teams cover a wide range of specialties and are experts in their fields. Our primary care providers have
extensive training in a variety of medical areas including adult medicine, pediatrics, children and seniors. Your health
and well being are our primary concern!
Dr. Deborah Gracia
Doctor of Osteopathy
Internal Medicine
Dental, Behavioral Health & Specialty Team!
Welcome to Borinquen Medical Centers of Miami-Dade’s Dental, Behavioral Health and Specialty Departments.
We endeavor to provide outstanding dental, behavioral and specialty services to all of our clients. Here at BMC,
you can expect access to a team of expertly trained doctors, nurses and medical assistants, the latest in technology, a
newly designed state-of-the-art health care facility, along with a standard of excellent health care in a safe, comfortable and friendly environment.
This is the exceptional care you would expect from a Federally Qualified Health Care teaching medical center. We not only strive to provide easy
access to outstanding healthcare, but we do so in a warm, caring and supportive environment paying close attention to your well-being. Welcome
to our family.
Dr. Gilsa Henderson
Luis Beltran Dental
Suite
Dr. Carlos Gutierrez
Luis Beltran Dental
Suite
Dr. Franlix Arenal
Luis Beltran Dental
Suite
Dr. Michele Soheil
Dental Director
Luis Beltran Dental
Suite
Dr. Leila
Charlemagne
Behavioral Health Director
Behavioral Health
Resource Center
Dr. Nancy N. Gonzalez Dr. Oscar Barreto
Behavioral Health
Podiatrist
Resource Center
Emilio Lopez Pavilion
3
September 2015 / Issue No. 44
Independent
Supplement
Medical Centers
Centers of
of Miami-Dade
Miami -Dadefor
for
Miami
Herald
Independent
Supplementproduced
producedby
by Borinquen
Borinquen Medical
Miami
Herald
Tips for a Pain-Free Back-to-School
Puerto Rico, Beautiful Jewel!
~by Susan Alvarez
As you may know Borinquen Medical Centers of Miami-Dade
Warning Signs of a
(BMC) provides Comprehensive Primary Care services at many
Backpack that’s Too
locations throughout the Miami area. Our Medical Center locations
stretch from North Miami thru the Little Haiti and Design District
Heavy:
communities past the Miami River extending along Flagami to West
1) Difficulty picking up or
Dade/S Sweetwater and finally south at the professional building at
taking off the backpack
Kendall Regional Medical Center. That certainly covers a lot of territory and exposes us
to many culturally diverse communities. We are extremely proud to say our staff
2) Tingling or numbing of legs or
mirrors the people we serve. In all our locations you will find bilingual and even
arms
trilingual staff to greet and help you! With that in mind we wanted to take a look at
3) Pain when wearing the
some of the places that our community and our own staff travel from to reach this
backpack
mélange of rich cultures that is Miami.
A great many people that cross our threshold come from nearby islands, most
4) Red strap marks on the front of
specifically
the Caribbean. Did you know that there are thousands of islands that makethe shoulders
up the Caribbean Region? One of the islands, 4th on the list, in order of population
density, is the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico with just over 3.5 million people.
Ways to Improve
While the Island as a whole has an incredibly rich and colorful history, as we zoom
in
onto
one of its Municipalities, we discover the beautiful jewel that is Arroyo which
Backpack Wearing:
was founded on December 25, 1855. Located on the south eastern part of Puerto Rico,
1) Pack heavier items in the back
Arroyo is 23.01 square miles, 15 square miles of land and 8 square miles of water,
and center and lighter items in
specifically the Nigua River, according to official state websites. Arroyo means creek in
the front
English and their motto is the motto, Arroyo Pueblo Grato which translate to Arroyo a
pleasing town. Punta Guilarte Beach, touted as the most beautiful beach in Puerto Rico,
2) Load with no more than 10% of
is located in Arroyo.
child’s weight to prevent spinal
An interesting fact about Arroyo: Did you know that in 1858, the first telegraph wire
damage or falls
in Latin America was sent by Morse (Yes, that Samuel F. B. Morse) to his daughter,
3) Carry with both straps in use at
Susan in Hacienda La Enriqueta in Arroyo. The line was just 2 miles long connecting
all times and snug to the back
the homes and the telegraph he sent was, “Puerto Rico, beautiful jewel! When you are
linked with the other jewels of the Antilles in the necklace of the world's telegraph,
4) Put on by bending and lifting
yours will not shine less brilliantly in the crown of your Queen!" Morse, originally from
using the knees instead of at the
Massachusetts, was fond of wintering in Puerto Rico. It’s no wonder Arroyo’s Coat of
waist
Arms has a tower between two silver telegraph poles.
5) Adjust to keep it below the
Borinquen has a personal connection to Arroyo as board chair, Mrs. Eva Perez, was
shoulders and up to the top of
born in this very small rural Pueblo and although she spent most of her childhood up to
the hipbones
the age of 15 in New York, she returned to the beautiful beach town of Arroyo where
she married and raised all of her children, on Calle Pescao (Fish Street). Mrs. Perez’s
mother, a Taino Indian lived her entire life there. Eva who left some 33 years ago, has
I hope you find these tips helpful. If many wonderful memories of living by the sea where the beach was her playground and
your child has pain or shows weakness
everyone who lived on her street were like family. The town took care of each other and
from carrying his or her school load after she remembers that at the end of the day when the fishermen would come back from the
making adjustments, consider consulting sea with their catch, they would give the
with your pediatrician about the possible people all the abundance of fish they
need of occupational or physical therapy were not going to sell. If you had
services. Have a playful day!
trouble paying for medications, or
Amy Baez is a pediatric occupational burying the dead, the Government took
therapist, award-winning handwriting
care of that for you. If you were
author, and founder of Playapy. For more homeless or needed a place to live, they
information about Playapy services and
would build a little shack for you and
products, visit www.playapy.com or email the townsfolks would provide you with
[email protected].
food. Eva recalls the Governor of
Puerto Rico’s frequent visits to the town
where he would bring food and dine
indicative of the style of homes that lined
Did you Know? Didaskaleinophobia is the fear of going
with the people, in their homes, no
the street of Calle Pascao circa 1940's
to school. Don’t worry though, only about 2% of children around
matter how small the home or how poor
the world suffer from this form of anxiety.
they were, he wanted to share a meal with them. Mrs. Perez has many fond memories
and says she was so very happy there.
~by Amy Baez, OTR/L, The Smart Play Curator
The summer
is quickly
coming to an
end and
children all
across the
United States
will start
complaining
about
something
more painful
than homework when they head back to
school. According to one study of
American students ages 11 to 15 years,
64% reported complaints of back pain
related to heavy backpacks. In fact more
than half of students carry a backpack that
is heavier than the recommended guideline
of 10% of the student’s total body weight
and thousands of backpack-related injuries
are treated at hospital emergency rooms,
doctor’s offices, and clinics each year.
Thankfully, a study published in 2002 on
the effect of backpack education on
student behavior and health showed nearly
8 out of 10 middle school students who
changed how they loaded and wore their
backpacks reported less pain and strain in
their backs, necks, and shoulders. Hence,
the American Occupational Therapy
Association created the annual School
Backpack Awareness Day and will
celebrate it on September 16th. Here are
some tips they provide for a pain-free back
-to-school season for your child:
Contributor: Mr. Bob Linder References/Sources: https://en.wikipedia.org/
4
September 2015 / Issue No. 44
Independent Supplement produced by Borinquen Medical Centers of Miami -Dade for Miami Herald
AWARENESS
How Healthy Are You?
~by Pat Morgan, MBA
In the quest
for success
and the
constant
pressure to
meet
deadlines,
deal with
issues and
keep
everything
afloat, it is
easy to
overlook our
own self-care. The never-ending stress
eventually drains our energy and ability to
focus, causes premature aging and robs us
of our good health. Yet, without our
health, not much else matters.
What if there was a way to keep your
heart strong, your mind sharp, and your
body youthful? According to Lester
Packer, Ph.D., author of The Antioxidant
Miracle, Scientists now believe that free
radicals are causal factors in nearly every
known disease, from heart disease to
arthritis to cancer to cataracts. In fact, free
radicals are a major culprit in the aging
process itself. By controlling free radicals,
antioxidants can make the difference
between life and death, as well as
influence how fast and how well we age.”
There is a constant war going on in
your body between free radicals and
antioxidants. Free radicals are attempting
to damage your cells while antioxidants
are protecting them. Think about what
happens when you slice an apple. It begins
to turn brown as oxidation takes place.
The same process is occurring within your
body.
Free radicals come from external
toxins, like cigarette smoke and air
pollution. Poor diets and even our water
sources contain free radicals in the form of
pesticides and other toxins. Drinking
alcohol triggers free radical production as
well. Free radicals are also generated
internally as your body creates energy for
physical activity, breathing, thinking and
keeping your heart beating.
Normally, the body handles free
radicals, but if the antioxidant level is low,
or free-radical production is excessive,
damage occurs. The extent of the damage
accumulates with age.
The antioxidant defense system is a
group of compounds that are designed to
disarm free radicals. Antioxidants are a
family of vitamins, minerals and other
nutrients that helps to insure healthy cells
and tissues. Their role in the human body
is nothing short of miraculous.
How do you increase your level of
antioxidants? Mother Nature provides a
way through common foods, especially
bright colored fruits and vegetables like
carrots, beets, blueberries and
strawberries. Whole grains, nuts and
legumes are rich in antioxidants.
According to the American Medical
Association (AMA), 9-12 servings of
fruits and vegetables are needed daily
which are virtually impossible to get
through food alone. Supplementation is
necessary for adequate protection.
What will you do today to make
changes for a healthier, more vibrant life?
Pat Morgan is a Success Coach and
Global Business Developer for Lifestyle,
Wellness and Antiaging Technologies. You
can reach her at: 305-458-2849. Your
Health is Your Wealth.
ARE YOU
PROSTATE CANCER?
AT
RISK
OF
~by Anna Smith
September marks National Prostate Cancer Awareness Month! According to the
Prostate Cancer Foundation, more than 2 million American men are currently living
with prostate cancer. In fact, it is the second most common form of cancer after skin
cancer and will affect approximately 1 in 6 men at some point in their lives. While
these numbers are alarming, almost 90% of prostate cancers are detected early on
making the cure rate relatively high. Research shows that nearly 100% of men
diagnosed with prostate cancer in its local and regional stages that receive treatment
will be living cancer free after 5 years! However, it is still a deadly disease with
approximately 88 men succumbing to it every day. This means that it is extremely
important for men to ask their doctor about getting tested for prostate cancer once they
reach the age of 50 and to get tested yearly beginning at age 40 if they have a family
history of the disease. Studies also show that African American men are more likely to
develop prostate cancer making it even more important for them to get tested after
they turn 40 as well. With that being said, be sure to talk to your doctor about prostate
cancer and whether you should be getting tested now. Don’t wait until it’s too late!
Resources: http://selfchec.org; http://www.pcf.org/site/c.leJRIROrEpH/b.5699537/k.BEF4/Home.htm
OVARIAN CANCER AWARENESS MONTH
~by Toni de la Barra, Clinical Office Manager,
September is national ovarian
cancer awareness month, and
we at the Women’s Health
Department wants to share with
our treasured patients and
readers some potentially
lifesaving information
concerning this disease.
Cancer is a rapid
overgrowing of abnormal cells.
Ovarian cancer is an overgrowth of these abnormal cells within the ovaries of a female’s body.
Some risk
factors that your medical provider will take into
account when you come in for your annual checkup are:
 Women who are post-menopausal (have already gone through menopause)
 Obesity, women who have a BMI greater than 30
 Women who had first full term pregnancy after the age of 35
 Women who are treated for infertility with medications
 Women who take Androgens
 Family history of Ovarian, Breast, or Colon cancer
Early detection is key for a greater chance of survival. Early symptoms of ovarian
cancer are vague, but with the help of your health care provider and diagnostic tests,
we can collaborate and help you make informed decisions on any needed treatment
plans. Please visit us at the Women’s Health Department to schedule your Annual
checkup at Borinquen Medical Centers of Miami Dade.
TOBACCO CESSATION PROGRAM
Have you tried to quit smoking?
Have you relapsed with Nicotine?
Do you need support to quit?
Are you sick or experiencing medical problems
because of your smoking?
Now is the opportunity, for you are not alone, and the
support that you need is here:
Borinquen Behavioral Resource Center B-Care
program offers group counseling to quit smoking
every Tuesday at 2:00PM-3:00PM for six weeks.
Contact us to register (305) 576-6611 Ext. 1803,
Glory Ann Zapata, MS
Image courtesy of zdiviv at
FreeDigitalPhoto.net
Available in English & Spanish
Fruits, Veggies & the Fight Against
Childhood Obesity!
~by Silvana Vasquez, Registered
Dietician and Nutritionist with
Anna Smith
Vegetables again, you may ask.
While much has been written
about vegetables and their
nutritional value, there is still the
question of how many and how
often we are actually putting
them on our plates? September is
Eat More Fruits & Veggies
Month, so how about giving fresh
fruits and vegetables a second
chance and adding them to your
plate? Chances are that you have
been enjoying the summer
months to the fullest with all of
the fun activities like outings,
picnics, vacations and time with
family and friends. All too often,
being mindful of what we eat
goes out the window during this
time. With the start of a new
school year, another question
comes to mind; what will you be
putting into your child’s lunch
boxes this year?
September not only brings
awareness to the importance of
eating more fruits and veggies, it
is also Childhood Obesity
Awareness Month. Studies in
obesity are showing that many
adults facing obesity problems
trace their roots to their childhood
years. A recently published
article in the Miami Herald titled
Are Standing Desks the Solution
for Childhood Obesity, tackled
one of the contributing factors to
this major health issue. The
article discussed the growing
interest in placing standing desks
in schools as a response to the
obesity epidemic in the United
States, as sedentariness is
believed to be a major contributor
to obesity. However, let us not
forget that what we eat is also a
chief component to the problem.
In fact, the article continues by
pointing out that children who eat
a healthy diet (such as a
Mediterranean, French or
Japanese diet) and engage in
regular physical activity are more
likely to become healthier adults.
While this may seem like a
‘no brainer,’ I cannot stress
enough the importance that
nutritional education plays in
helping children to grow into
healthy adults. We all know that
eating fruits and veggies is good
for us, but many families still
struggle with preparing healthy
meals for their children. In fact,
many so called “healthy foods”
that contain some form of fruits
or vegetables in them are actually
not healthy at all. Instead of
buying fruit roll-ups, fruit
flavored yogurt and other
processed fruit and veggie
snacks, buy the real stuff and
encourage your children to enjoy
raw fruits and vegetables by
making homemade smoothies,
adding fresh fruit to yogurt and
making your own dips for
veggies at home. This all falls
into the category of mindful
eating which goes hand in hand
with fighting obesity and
encouraging kids to eat more
fruits and vegetables. It can also
be a great tool for families to use
when it comes to raising healthy
eaters. Just take the time to think
about the types of food your
family is eating and be mindful
of the foods you bring into your
home. Be sure to stock the
cabinets and refrigerator with
whole, healthy foods and take the
time each week to prep healthy
snacks that the kids can grab on
the go. Making these foods
available and convenient is one of
the keys to getting kids (and
yourself) to be an overall healthy
eater. Instilling these habits in
your children early on will also
help decrease their risk of
succumbing to childhood obesity
while increasing their odds of
growing into a healthy adult. The
real battle against the obesity
epidemic starts with our children
and putting an end to childhood
obesity!
Easy Whole Wheat Pita Pizza
~by Silvana Vasquez, Registered Dietician and Nutritionist
Just in time for national whole wheat month! This is a fun, easy, and delicious
snack to make with the kids over the weekend after school starts. I hope you enjoy!
Ingredients: - 1 whole wheat pita, regular sized - 1 slice of mozzarella cheese 1 slice of low fat ham - 1 tomato, cut into thin slices, - parmesan cheese to taste
Directions: (1) preheat the oven to 375° (2) place sliced tomatoes on pita bread (2)
place mozzarella cheese over tomato slices (3) place ham on top of mozzarella
cheese and sprinkle parmesan cheese on top (4) place in oven and bake for
approximately 10 minutes or until cheese melts and is golden brown (5) serve and
enjoy! *Feeling adventurous? Adjust the recipe to add in more vegetables such as
fresh sliced mushrooms, spinach, peppers, olives or basil for even more flavor!
FLU SEASON
IS
AROUND
THE
CORNER!
~by Anna Smith
Cold and Flu season is coming up fast! With the change in the seasons
looming in the near future and the kids going back to school, many people will
wind up in bed sick at some point or another. While the common cold is almost
inevitable and can only really be prevented by eating healthy, getting plenty of
sleep, washing your hands frequently and avoiding direct contact with those who
have a cold, the flu can be avoided with one simple step;
getting a flu vaccine. Of course healthy lifestyle choices and washing your hands
is also great practice for not succumbing to the flu, the flu or Influenza vaccine is
really your best bet at staying healthy during flu season. Borinquen Medical Centers wants to remind everyone, from children to the elderly, to get vaccinated this
year to avoid getting the flu. To schedule an appointment to get your flu shot, just
call (305) 576-6611.
Resources: http://www.healthline.com/health/cold-flu/cold-or-flu
YOUR FEEDBACK IS IMPORTANT TO US!
As your Healthcare Provider, we want you to
know that you are valued; therefore, we kindly
ask you let us know how we’re doing. Please call:
305-576-6611 to speak with one of our
Communication Specialists. We would like to
hear from you, our patients, clients, and partners
to provide us with feedback (positive and/or
negative) about anything which may include our
service, customer care, programs, processes, etc.
We look forward to hearing from you. Your
voices are already being heard and put into action.
Image Courtesy of imagerymajestic
at FReeDigitalPhotos.net
5
September 2015 / Issue No. 44
Independent Supplement produced by Borinquen Medical Centers of Miami -Dade for Miami Herald
AWARENESS
Healthy Living
~by Susan Alvarez and Anna Smith
There are numerous observations in the month of September to help remind you of the
importance of keeping fit and many of them are intertwined and related, such as:
Healthy Aging Month, Women's Health and Fitness Day, Family Health and Fitness
Day, National Childhood Obesity Awareness Month, National Yoga Awareness
Month, Whole Grains Month, World Alzheimer's Month. We tried to cover as many
of these important topics in this issue as possible so that we can all get on that path to
living a healthy life style. One of the goals of this newspaper is to help inform our
community on how to do that and some options that are available to that end.
I don’t know about you, but watching older friends and family members being
stricken by debilitating diseases as they age, that might have very well been
preventable with informed and healthy life style choices, is very frightening. I hope
that we can take control of how we would like to age, healthy of course and maybe
even gracefully. To that end, I’m always reading up on the latest findings on how diet
and exercises can help prevent disease, keep us healthy, fit and active well into our
golden years.
First we tackle the body. We have to ‘MOVE’, simple. In order to keep things
working properly, we have to do a bit of work. The trick is to find the “Work-Out”
that you are willing to stick with and that you look forward to doing because you 'like'
it. I recently heard someone say, “I stopped going to the gym, I hate it, I never liked it,
and I just don’t want to do it anymore.” Well of course, if you hate something why
would you do it? These days there are many FREE choices of work-out activities
around town for you to try and see if there is something that works for you.
National Women’s Health &
Fitness Day and Family Health &
Fitness Day
It’s finally September and that means school is
back in session and families across the nation are
getting back into their regular routines. With all
the hustle and bustle of taking the kids to school,
picking them up and getting the family on
schedule, it can be easy to put off one of the most
important factors in maintaining a healthy
lifestyle; physical fitness. To remind families of
the importance of physical activities the nation
will celebrate the 19th annual Family
Health & Fitness Day on Saturday,
September 26th, by holding family related fitness events at parks, schools, healthcare
organizations, and YMCA/YWCA facilities. This awareness event focuses not only
on the positive impact that regular physical activity plays on one’s health, but also on
the family unit as a whole by encouraging families to get out and get moving together.
Be sure to get your family involved come Family Health & Fitness Day by taking
them out to play a sport or a game, go for a walk, or engage in any other activity that
gets everyone involved and moving as a family!
If that’s not enough for the moms, daughters, sisters and even grandmothers, on
Wednesday, September 30th, the nation’s largest annual health promotion event for
women, National Women’s Health & Fitness Day, will take
place across the country. This event focuses on women’s health and the important role
that regular physical activity plays in it. More than 500 groups across the United
States will take the time to host health and fitness events for women at a variety of
venues including health facilities, senior centers and parks. It will be a day filled with
fun activities all aimed to encourage women to take control of their personal health
and to find the time to get engaged in physical activities on a regular basis.
Image courtesy
courtesy--Photostock from FreeDigitalPhotos.net
Resources: http://www.fitnessday.com/family/index.htm; http://www.fitnessday.com/women/index.htm;
Christina Chay Logan, RN, CYT
More and more parks are now offering Free Yoga Classes. There are over 21
million Americans who have already tried and are enjoying practicing the mindful
work-out that is Yoga. Here are some locations for you to check out whether you are
living downtown, south west, north east, upper eastside or the beaches:
North East - A few months back we told you how much we loved The Little
Haiti Cultural Center with their new offering of Free (donations welcomed) Yoga
classes to the beat of the drums? Well it continues every Thursday, 6:00pm, at 212 NE
59th, Terrace, Miami, FL 33137.
There’s a free yoga class in the
South West at Jose Marti Park,
362 SW 4th Avenue, Miami, FL
33130 every Tuesday at 6:00pm and
Downtown there are three (3)
free classes weekly at Bayfront Park
(Tina Hills Pavilion) every Monday
& Wednesday: 6:00pm - 7:15pm
and Saturday: 9:00am - 10:15am.
All participants must be at least 18
years old and will have to sign a
waiver. Everyone must bring their
own yoga mat, water, and towel. All
are welcomed from beginners, to
intermediate, and advanced. Classes
are taught by a certified yoga
teacher. And, in the event of rain,
classes take place inside the
Bayfront Park office. Yoga Program
on the Road - Commissioner Frank
Carollo and the Bayfront Park
Management Trust launched the
initiative: As one of the winners of The Miami
Foundation’s Public Space Challenge. The classes are made possible by Chairman
Commissioner Frank Carollo, The Miami Foundation, The Health Foundation of
South Florida, Bayfront Park Management Trust, and the City of Miami’s Parks
Department. The Bayfront Park Management Trust was created in 1987, by the Miami
City Commission, to manage downtown waterfront parks "for the purpose of insuring
maximum community utilization and enjoyment." Currently, the Trust manages 53
acres of park land, including Bayfront Park and Museum Park. Info: 305-358-7550 /
www.bayfrontparkmiami.com. And, on the trendy Upper Eastside classes are
held beneath the beautiful shady oak trees at Legion Park lead by Anamargret Sanchez
of the Daily Offering Yoga, Saturday mornings at 10am. Legion Park is located at
6447 NE 7th Avenue, Miami, FL 33138. Instructors embrace an assortment of yoga
styles. Check out their website for information as their studio has moved to a new
location: www.dailyofferingyoga.com.
At the Beaches: YOGA in the Park on Mondays & Wednesdays at the
following two locations: Collins Park, 2100 Collins Avenue & at 73rd Street and
Collins Avenue, on the UNIDAD Community Center Patio. Classes are provided by
City of Miami Beach, Miami Beach Medical Group, and Green Monkey Yoga. More
info at: www.miamibeachparks.com.
And keep in mind that not all Yoga practices are the same!
Yoga & Your Healthy Heart
6
~by Christina Chay Logan, RN, CYT
Heart disease remains the leading cause of death in both men and women in the U.S.
today. The American Heart Association (AHA) defines heart disease as any condition
affecting the heart and surrounding blood vessels. Arrhythmias, heart attack, heart
failure, coronary artery disease, stroke, high blood pressure and elevated blood
cholesterol are of the most common diagnosis. While cardiovascular disease is typically an adult condition, younger populations are increasingly more at risk. Western
medical treatment relies on various surgical interventions such as open heart
>>p 8
September 2015 / Issue No. 44
Independent Supplement produced by Borinquen Medical Centers of Miami -Dade for Miami Herald
Lee Silverman Voice Treatment (LSVT)
Based Therapy Free
To Parkinson’s Patients on Medicaid,
Obamacare and the Uninsured
Residents of Miami-Dade County
Image Courtesy of David Castillo Dominici at FreeDigitalPhotos.net
Neuroscience Centers of Florida Foundation (NSCFF), a non-profit organization
based in Miami with a focus on Alzheimer’s, Multiple Sclerosis, Parkinson’s and
Stroke will offer Parkinson’s patients residing in Miami-Dade
County, FREE Lee Silverman Voice Treatment (LSVT) based,
Physical and Occupational Therapy as well as Speech Therapy
programs beginning in September, 2015. This special therapy will
be available at Borinquen Healthcare Center’s Community Room at
3601 Federal Highway in Miami.
These courses are a first in Miami-Dade County and will be offered free to
recipients of Medicaid, Obamacare, as well as the uninsured. “NSCFF identified a
critical unmet need for patients diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease that wasn’t being
served. This will now be addressed due to a recently awarded grant from the National
Parkinson Foundation. We’re fully committed to servicing the members of our
community afflicted with this disease who have limited access to proper care,” said
Jeffrey Horstmyer, MD, FAAN – Chief Executive Officer.
People with Parkinson often suffer from tremor or rigidity in their muscles making
walking and movement in general very difficult. They have a small gait usually
accompanied by poor balance. LSVT based therapy is an innovative physical/
occupational therapy designed to improve motor skills in people with Parkinson’s.
People with Parkinson’s often times experience great difficulty swallowing,
speaking with an audible voice, suffer from Dysarthria (slurred speech), and reduced
sensory feedback so they don’t realize they are speaking too softly. LSVT based
therapy addresses these symptoms.
For more detailed information and to inquire as to whether you qualify for this
therapy program, please contact Oylime Fernandez at 305-856-8940, ext. 104.
7
September 2015 / Issue No. 44
Independent Supplement produced by Borinquen Medical Centers of Miami -Dade for Miami Herald
BORINQUEN’S RYAN WHITE MEDICAL CASE
MANAGEMENT TEAM AND
PAC WAIVER CASE MANAGEMENT PROGRAM
Couples Testing
The Ryan White Medical Case Management Team and
PAC Waiver Case Management Program
are located at the Regions Bank Building
3550 Biscayne Blvd., Suite #508, Miami, FL 33137
The following is contact information for all case managers:
TEL: 305-576-6611 / FAX: 786-476-2830
Ryan White Medical Case Management Team
Our Ryan White Medical Case Management Team offers ● Medical Case
Management ● Health Insurance Services ● Outpatient Medical Care ● Mental
Health Therapy/Counseling ● Food Services ● Legal Services ● Oral Health
Care ● Outreach Services ● Prescription Drugs ● Psychosocial Support
Services ● Substance Abuse Counseling – Outpatient Treatment and
Residential Treatment ● Transportation Services ● Transportation Voucher
Rosemonde Francis, Case Management Supervisor: x1712
Angel Camacho, Prevention Case Manager: x1711
Oscar Galeano, Case Manager: x3316
Aline Pierre Jean, Case Manager: x1706
Victoria Garcia, Case Manager: x1709
Rhonda Wright, Case Manager: x1707
Marie Fleurimond, Case Manager: x1708
Pac Waiver Case Management Program
Our Medical PAC Waiver Program provides home and community-based
services to eligible recipients that are at risk for hospitalization, but are able
to be maintained safely in the home.
Stronger Together. Getting an HIV test can be difficult, if not
downright scary - and telling your partner the results can be even more difficult. Testing
Together provides an opportunity for you and your partner to have your HIV test
together and get your test results together, with a trained counselor present to help you
talk about the results. Testing Together and receiving your results together can start an
ongoing healthy conversation between you and your partner about HIV in your
relationship, and allow you to talk openly about building a protection plan together.
Borinquen now provides this service to our community. Couples Testing (CT) every:
Wednesday: 8:30am to 3:30pm and Friday:8:30am to 2:00pm
CT will take place at the following BMC locations:
Armides Pena, PAC Waiver Coordinator: x1701
Diana Ramirez, PAC Lead Case Manager: x1702
Mayte Su-Lanza, Case Manager: x1703
Carlos Garcia, Case Manager: x1704
Rose Louis, Case Manager: x1705
Priscilla Reyes, Case Manager: x1723
Harold Ponce, Assistant: x1721
In the event that you cannot get in contact with a case manager, please contact
either Rosemonde Francis x1712 (Ryan White Medical Case Management
Supervisor) or Armides Pena x1701 (PAC Waiver Coordinator).
Lunch & Learn
~Angel Camacho, Prevention Case Manager
with Susan Alvarez
The ever popular and extremely informative Lunch & Learn
series continues with knowledgeable speakers and vital
information for your well-being. The latest in the series was
held on Thursday, August 20th, at the Borinquen Medical
Center, Specialty Center located at 100 NE 38th street, suite #5.
The core topic was “HEP C Education” and was presented by Abbvie. If you missed
this Lunch & Learn, you can call to RSVP for the next one which will be presented in
Spanish by Donna Sabatino from Janseen. The core topic will be “Empowered
Decisions.” This will be a special Lunch & Learn session held at City Hall Restaurant
located at 2004 Biscayne Blvd. Dr. Steven Santiago will be present for this event.
The BMC Lunch & Learn series is a popular event. They are ongoing monthly and
by RSVP ONLY per case manager invitation. If you would like to attend or are
interested in more information, please call for dates and times: (305) 576-6611 Ext.
1711 or Email: [email protected]
Virgo 2015 Horoscope
August 23rd - September 22nd
Introverted, analytical, observant perfectionist, the month of
September will bring both wonderful and stressful situations to
the fussy virgin, Virgo. The summer months have brought luck and good fortune to
you and this trend will continue throughout your birth month. This will be
particularly evident in the realm of work and career with many exciting
opportunities on the rise. Take advantage of the fact that favorable situations in the
workplace will come forth for you due to your helpful, reliable and perfectionist
nature. However, it should be noted that the sphere of personal relationships and
friendship will be a little less promising and will require more work. While you may
still be able to achieve what you would want when it comes to your social, personal
and romantic relationships, it is of dire importance for you to pay attention and listen to your friends and loved ones. Your inflexible ways and overt skepticism have
caused you much grief in the past and while you believe it is everyone else with the
problem, the true source of your guilt and grief comes from the choices you have
made and not the choices of others. Do not let this bog you down. Instead use it to
your advantage to gain more trust and understanding from those you love.
BORINQUEN IS HIRING!
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Borinquen Health Care Center, Inc. is an equal opportunity
employer. BHCC provides an excellent benefit plan, a friendly
environment, offers opportunity for growth and is family oriented.
Current Job Openings for:
Dental Assistant
Phlebotomist
IT Specialist
Psychiatrist
Front Desk
ARNP
LPN
HCiOS – RN
HCiOS – LPN
HCiOS – LCSW
Licensed Social Worker
Family Medicine Physician
Internal Medicine Physician
Medical Assistant/Front Desk
Healthy Start Care Coordinator
Insurance Verification Specialist
Communication Center Operator
To view the full job descriptions & to apply online: www.borinquenhealth.org.
If you have any questions regarding employment,
please call the Human Resources Department at
305-576-6611 Ext. 1339. If you would like to fax in a resume,
please fax to 786-476-2824.
8
Emilio Lopez Pavilion,
Behavioral Health
4th Floor
Resource Center
3601 Federal Highway
100 NE 38th Street, Ste. # 5
Miami, FL 33137
Miami, FL 33137
Tel: (305) 576-6611
Tel: (305) 576-1599
(ask for Moises Hernandez) (ask for Raul Rodriguez)
Drop-In Education
& Access Center
12603 NE 7th Avenue
North Miami, FL 33161
Tel: (786) 476-1005
(ask for Wendy Aquino)
Information and guidelines for testing:
1. The couple must be sexually active for a minimum of
three (3) months.
2. The couple must commit to receiving the HIV results
together.
3. During the counseling session (and after) the couple
must commit to not discussing any past risk factors.
4. The couple must commit to not disclosing the
partner’s results.
Healthy Heart
from p6
surgery and vessel stenting coupled with a daily ongoing pharmaceutical regime.
Prevention is aimed at a low-fat diet, regular exercise (150 minutes weekly), smoking
cessation and stress management.
Yoga is now considered part of a ‘heart healthy’ lifestyle according to the AHA
(2013). Current research reveals yoga’s ability to ‘lower blood pressure, increase lung
capacity, improve respiratory function and heart rate, and boost circulation’ (AHA,
2013). The practice also promotes overall wellbeing and peace of mind. Yoga’s stress
reducing benefits have played an important role in the emotional recovery aspect of
cardiac bypass surgery, an event that causes depression in 50% of patients (AMA,
2013). Yet despite the numerous benefits of yoga, it is not included in the 150 minute
weekly recommendation for physical activity (AHA, 2013). This is due in part to the
focus of traditional slower-paced yoga in much of today’s research. Modern day
practice, however, includes a variety of yoga styles, ranging from low intensity to high
intensity. Choose your type of practice and you chose your heart rate.
Builds muscle, improves stress response, increases flexibility and promotes blood
flow. In other words: Yoga grows your heart. It works on the organ of our individuality,
the source of Universal LOVE and compassion.
Disclaimer: The articles in this newspaper are provided for and contain general information about various health
care topics. The information may not be complete or comprehensive. You should not rely on the information in this
newspaper as an alternative to medical advice from your doctor or healthcare provider. Nothing contained in this
newspaper should be construed nor is intended to be used for medical diagnosis or treatment. It should not be used in
place of the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare providers. Should you have any healthcare related
questions, please call or see your physician or other qualified healthcare providers promptly. Always consult with
your physician or other qualified healthcare provider before embarking on a new treatment, diet or fitness program.
Women in
Sports!
(Just in Time for
National
Women’s Health
& Fitness Day)
September 30th marks National Women’s Health & Fitness Day! It will be a day filled
with fun activities aimed to encourage women to get out and get physical on a daily
basis in order to keep their health in check. What better way to honor this popular
national event than to take a look at some of the current events happening now in the
world of women and sports.
Women have certainly made
their mark throughout history in
the realm of sports and athletics,
but some very exciting
achievements have recently made
headlines when it comes to
women’s sports.
To begin, U.S. women’s
soccer coach, Jill Ellis, will be
extending her contract after bringing the U.S. women’s soccer team their third world
cup crown in July. Her next big project will be coaching her team to bring home the
gold in the upcoming 2016 Olympics in Rio de Janeiro. The team has won Olympic
gold medals in three consecutive games with Ellis as assistant coach for the last two,
making their chances of sealing yet another victory a likely one.
In other Olympic news, two-time world champion gymnast, Simone Biles, has been
declared the favorite for bringing home the gold in the 2016 Olympics. While the 2012
all around Olympic champion, Gabby Douglas, is certainly some tough competition, 18
year old Biles has excelled over the last two years with a stunning victory margin of
2.18 points during competitions. That’s equivalent to a three touchdown difference in a
football game!
And if Olympic gold and championship titles aren’t impressive enough in the realm
of women’s sports, there’s always American teenager, Katie Ledecky, who recently
smashed yet another world record during the FINA (International Swimming
Federation) world championship in August. For the 4th time, Ledecky has broken the
world record during the 1,500 meter freestyle swim, showing everyone that she is one
heck of a force to be reckoned with.
All in all, the summer of 2015 has been an exceptional one for women in sports with
many different championships, records and titles being accomplished by a slew of
female athletes from various sports. Hopefully this will be enough encouragement to
get women across the nation to get up and get moving come National Women’s Health
& Fitness Day!
Resources: http://www.fitnessday.com/women/index.htm; http://www.newsday.com/sports/soccer/jill-ellis-u-s-soccer-agreeon-contract-extension-ahead-of-2016-olympics-1.10710418; http://www.newsday.com/sports/olympics/simone-biles-readyfor-us-gymnastics-nationals-1.10735073; http://www.newsday.com/sports/olympics/katie-ledecky-breaks-own-world-recordin-1-500-meter-freestyle-at-world-championships-1.10702
September 2015 / Issue No. 44
Independent Supplement produced by Borinquen Medical Centers of Miami -Dade for Miami Herald
AROUND
THE
CORNER:
from the University of Miami. She was one of the
Never Forget - 9/11 Day of Service
founders of the National Conference of Puerto Rican
Women-Miami (NACOPRW) where she served as
president for two years.
"Tales from Alturas: The Puerto Rican Mystique," is
available for purchase at Amazon.com, where its first
~by Susan Alvarez
chapter may be read at no cost. It is also available through
Barnes & Noble. Emma Chaves is tentatively scheduled
for a reading and signing of her book at Ana Menendez
Did you get through your summer must University on Tuesday, September 16, 6:00PM to 8:00
In 2009, Congress designated September 11th as a Nationread list yet? If you’re like most people, myself included, PM. https://www.createspace.com/5337237
al Day of Service and Remembrance. The day is set aside,
you lead a very busy and hectic life which leaves no time
as a way for our nation to pay tribute to and remember
On
September
12-13,
Life
Is
Art
and
its
partners
are
for enjoying a good novel until the long days of summer
those who perished during the September 11 attacks. We
bringing
you
a
brand
new
festival,
the
Dwntwn
Arts
Fair!
when we can take a couple of weeks just to lounge
also honor those men and women who came forward to
A
family-friendly
street
fest
filled
with
art,
music,
crafts,
around and relax. If you want to fit one more good read
help those in need and the many who paid the ultimate
before summer’s end, pick up Tales from Alturas: The
price of their very lives, in the selfless act. As a way to
Puerto Rican Mystique by Emma Chaves.
continue to help heal the nation, many of us get together
The feisty mountain people of Alturas, in the
to volunteer in whatever way we can. There are many
Cordillera Central of Puerto Rico, scratch and claw to
charitable organizations that can use your help and would
survive in their beloved but devastated patch of
really appreciate the extra set of hands. Whether it’s
God-given earth. During the early 20th century one
volunteering at a homeless shelter, giving blood, reading
calamity after another has caused hunger and misery to
and performances, the Dwntwn Arts Fair is truly a
to kids at the library, or visiting with the elderly at a
hover over this beautiful Island and its amazingly resilient cultural showcase that everyone will enjoy. Brought to
nursing home, you can help keep it going and continue to
people. The colorful characters depicted in these
you by a team of grassroots organizations with strong ties bring the nation together as one.
compelling and unforgettable tales seek happiness by
throughout our local community, their goal is to foster the
Not sure where to get started? Check out the
spreading rumors, creating tales, accessing the spirit
growth of all the different artistic elements that make up
Corporation for National & Community Service’s website
world, even seeing the
our city’s culture. The fair is located on NE 3rd Avenue
for ideas at: www.nationalservice.gov
sudden apparition of a
between NE 1st and 2nd Street. They are shutting down
departed loved one.
the whole block! This event takes place during DWNSomehow they must
TWN Art Days. The show is free and open to the public. The Dorothy Quintana Senior Arts Program held a fun
pick up the pieces of
Current partners include Buskerfest, Kondoit, YO
Hippie Day event at Roberto Clemente Park.
their shattered lives
Miami, Indiegals, Celebrate Diversity Miami and
Hon. Keon Hardemon, City of Miami Vice-Chairman and
and continue to trudge
Elwoods Gastro Pub with the support of the Downtown
Commissioner (District 5) presented the Arts Program
forward with dreams
Development Authority, Downtown Miami Partnership,
with a $9,000 dollar grant award.
and hope. “Without
and sponsored by the Greater Miami Convention and
In attendance was; Mrs. Eva Perez, Chairperson,
dreams,” Lola tells her
Visitors Bureau, the Miami Herald and Waste ManageBorinquen Medical Centers, Luis DeRosa, Dynamic CDC
daughter, “it’s
ment, with more to be announced soon. You can become and Maribel Camacho, Arts Instructor for the Dorothy
impossible to live.”
a part of this new festival! See the link for more
The author has created
information: www.lifeisartfest.org
a unique world in
Let’s not forget a crowd favorite the popular Big Night
which universal
in Little Haiti events which takes place on the third Frithemes, such as roday of every month, with a variety of different bands.
mance, love and loss,
They have food vendors and lots of children’s activities
love for one’s family
such as arts and crafts. They open from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m.
and for one’s homeland are pursued, as well as themes
Another big plus, admission is FREE & there is ample
more specific to some groups than to others, such as
FREE parking.
machismo and discrimination.
As for me, this summer, you’ll find me under a palm
Emma Chaves was born in Brooklyn, New York of
tree napping or lost in the pages of a good novel.
Puerto Rican parents. At the age of
Quintana Senior Arts Program. As well, in attendance
12 she moved with her mother and
were local participating Wynwood Seniors.
sister to the mountain town of
The Dorothy Quintana Senior Arts Program, located at
Lares, Puerto Rico, where they
the Roberto Clemente Park 101 NW 34th, Miami 33127,
lived for two years, then returned
serves the seniors of the Wynwood community with arts
to Brooklyn. In 1955, Emma
Did you know Borinquen and crafts instruction, special art projects, lectures
moved to Miami with her
has a Facebook page? addressing issues important to seniors, and the
husband. She was the Center
Check
it out, like us on opportunity to come together and celebrate a variety of
Director and Community
Facebook
and spread the special days. The program was named after Wynwood’s
Developer for the Community
word
about
BMC!
legendary Puerto Rican community activist, Dorothy
Action Agency in the
www.facebook.com/
Quintana, who passed away at the age of 101.
predominantly Puerto Rican
BorinquenMedicalCenters
A special thank you to; The City of Miami Department
neighborhood of Wynwood,
OfMiamiDade
of Parks & Recreation, The City’s Department of ComMiami. Emma has a Master of
munity Development, Dynamic CDC and Borinquen.
Arts Degree in Liberal Studies
ART
Summer Reading
“Hippie Day”
Like Us On facebook!
9
September 2015 / Issue No. 44
Independent Supplement produced by Borinquen Medical Centers of Miami -Dade for Miami Herald
Special Rate
We are located at
2500 NW 79th Avenue, Suite 244
Doral, Florida 33122
305.495.1663
www.vsstrainingacademy.com
We also offer D and G Security License Courses
10
September 2015 / Issue No. 44
Independent
Supplementproduced
producedby
byBorinquen
Borinquen Medical
Herald
Independent
Supplement
Medical Centers
Centers of Miami-Dade
Miami -Dadefor
forMiami
Miami
Herald
11
September 2015 / Issue No. 44
Independent Supplement produced by Borinquen Medical Centers of Miami -Dade for Miami Herald