Knowing your family's health history is a powerful way to protect your child. It helps you stay proactive about their well-being and helps your doctor catch potential issues early. Well-child checkups are an important part of your child's growth. They typically happen about once a year (children under age 3 usually have a checkup every few months). During these visits, your child's doctor will use your family's health history to look for growth problems, learning delays, and other health concerns. So, h...
If you or your child has asthma, your doctor may prescribe two types of inhalers . These are called controller inhalers and rescue inhalers . Both help with asthma, but they do different jobs . Knowing when to use each one can help you breathe easier and prevent asthma attacks. A quick way to know the difference Think of it this way: Controller inhaler = prevent problems Rescue inhaler = treat symptoms Both inhalers work best when you use them the right way. What is a controller inhaler? A controller in...
In Texas, babies and children are encouraged to get several different vaccines to help protect them from serious disease. These vaccines are safe, effective ways to help your child stay healthy. See below for a list of common vaccines your child may receive.* Ask your child’s primary care provider (PCP) for a record when they get their shots. If you have questions or concerns, be sure to talk to your PCP. COVID-19 vaccine Protects against: COVID-19 , a contagious respiratory illness. Recommended for: Ev...
When you have asthma, it can be hard to manage your symptoms during the winter months. Learning to recognize and prevent asthma triggers can help you breathe easier and keep your symptoms under control. What Are Asthma Triggers? Asthma symptoms such as wheezing, shortness of breath, cough, or chest tightness are often caused by something in the air that you breathe. These are called triggers. Triggers are different for every person. Common triggers include: Smoke from cigarettes, wood burning stoves, fi...
Are you pregnant or planning to get pregnant? Your dental health is more important than you might think – and it matters for both you and your baby. Many moms-to-be don't know that pregnancy can cause changes to their teeth and gums. The good news is that taking care of your mouth is safe during pregnancy. How Pregnancy Affects Your Teeth and Gums When your body changes during pregnancy, so does your mouth. Your pregnancy hormones (progesterone and estrogen) can increase your risk for dental problems . ...
Have you heard of opioids, but aren’t sure what they are or why people use them? Keep reading for a list of frequently asked questions about opioids and their potential risks. What are opioids? Opioids, also known as narcotics, are strong medicines that help treat moderate to severe pain. They are often used after surgery or for injuries, chronic headaches, or backaches. They include both prescription medications and illegal drugs (such as heroin). Common prescription medications containing op...
Are you a woman age 15 or older who needs birth control, family planning, postpartum, or other health care services? Healthy Texas Women can help. Managed by Texas Health and Human Services (HHSC), the Healthy Texas Women program offers these benefits to eligible women—at no cost. Who can apply for Healthy Texas Women? You can receive these benefits if you are a woman: Who does not have health insurance. Who is a resident of Texas. Between 18 to 44 years old. Between 15 to ...
Sickle cell disease is a group of inherited red blood cell disorders. When someone has sickle cell disease, their red blood cells become hard and sticky. When they travel through small blood vessels, sickle cells get stuck and clog the blood flow. This can cause pain and other health problems such as infection and stroke. PCHP’s STAR (Medicaid) members with sickle cell disease now have access to a treatment called gene therapy, which can help improve their quality of life. The process usually ...
Does your child or teen have a tough time controlling their emotions, making friends, or coping with life situations? If so, they’re not alone! The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that 1 in 5 children have a mental, emotional, or behavioral disorder and might benefit from psychotherapy. This type of therapy – which can be used instead of or in addition to medication – may be right for your child. What is psychotherapy? Psychotherapy can help children and teens understand ...
Do you or your child take asthma medications through an inhaler? If so, using an asthma spacer can make a big difference. A spacer is a device that allows the asthma medication to go directly into your lungs. It is placed on the mouthpiece of your inhaler and creates “space” between your mouth and the medicine, allowing you to breathe in the medicine more easily. Spacers allow the medicine to go into your lungs and airways instead of staying in your mouth and throat. Who should use a spacer? E...
If you’re a parent or caregiver, you know it’s important to keep your children safe. And when it comes to being safe on the road, having the right car seat is essential! What kind of car seat does my child need? Your child will need different types of car seats as they grow. If the seat is too large or too small, it may not offer enough protection. When your child reaches the top height or weight limit allowed by the car seat’s manufacturer, they should move to the next type of car seat. Rear-facing car...
Do you have trouble remembering to take your asthma medication? You’re not alone! Many people with asthma struggle to take their medication – but you shouldn’t give up. Not taking your medicine can lead to some serious consequences. Frequent and severe asthma attacks. If you aren’t taking your medications, you may experience more frequent and severe asthma attacks. You may have more frequent shortness of breath, disrupted sleep, and wheezing on a daily basis. Increased use of rescue me...
Black Maternal Health Week takes place April 11–17 of every year – which makes it a good time to focus on access to prenatal and postpartum care for this important group of mothers. The Facts About Black Maternal Health Unfortunately, American women are more likely to die from pregnancy-related causes than women in other high-income nations. In 2023, there were 18.6 deaths per 100,000 live births. In addition, 1 in 9 Texas children is born prematurely. In the U.S., these rates are higher for Black women...
You may have heard recent news reports about a measles outbreak in Texas. Getting the MMR vaccine is the best way to keep from getting the measles. If you haven’t gotten the vaccine yet, it’s important to be aware of potential symptoms. There is no specific treatment for measles. Vaccination is the only way to prevent the disease. If you think you or your child has been exposed to someone with the measles, call your doctor or clinic right away to find out if you need to be tested or if you can be vaccin...
If you need immediate help, call 9-1-1 or go to the nearest emergency room. Feeling suicidal? Call the 9-8-8 Lifeline. If you or someone you know is having a mental health crisis, it’s important to get help as soon as possible. It is also a good idea to plan ahead so you’ll know what to do in an emergency. See below for some resources to help you get prepared and respond quickly when needed. Local and National Behavioral Health Resources PCHP Member Services PCHP’s Behavioral Health team is here to help...
You may have seen recent news reports about measles outbreaks in Texas and other states. Measles is a highly contagious virus that can be spread through the air. Common symptoms include a high fever, cough, runny nose, rash, and red, watery eyes. Measles can cause serious complications – including pneumonia and encephalitis (swelling of the brain) – in babies, children under age 5, pregnant women, and people with weakened immune systems. Getting the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine is the best ...
You can help prevent most diabetes complications from developing if you take care of your diabetes. Use this list to stay on schedule with your diabetes management. Your primary care doctor or your diabetes care team may recommend a different schedule or different goals. If so, please follow their advice for your personal diabetes care schedule. Every Day: Blood sugar checks Foot check If you have cuts, redness, swelling, corns, calluses, or changes in your skin or nails, contact your doctor immediately...
Is your child ready for potty training? It’s an exciting time. It’s also a major step in their growth from infancy to young childhood. Potty training can also be a time of frustration and “two steps forward, one step back.” The move from diapers to using a child-sized toilet can take three to six months or more. If you start potty training too early, the entire process can take even longer. (Staying dry overnight is unrelated to toilet training. If your child is unable to stay dry overnight and is at le...
Have you been through a major health event recently, like being pregnant or having a medical or mental health emergency? You may be feeling stressed – especially if you don’t have family or friends nearby to help. Whether you’re pregnant, a new mom, recovering from a trip to the emergency room, or experiencing stress and loneliness, everyone can use a little extra support. That’s why Parkland Community Health Plan is happy to offer the free Pyx Health program to our members age 18 and older. A Hel...
What is an asthma trigger? Anything that causes your asthma symptoms to flare up. Knowing your asthma triggers is important – if you or your child can avoid those specific triggers that make your asthma worse, you’ll have an easier time managing your condition. Each person’s asthma triggers can be unique. If you are able to understand your specific triggers, then you and your doctor can develop a targeted plan of action that addresses your needs. Learn more about how to create asthma action plans . It m...
Doctors, pharmacists, dentists, therapists. Those are just a few members of the team who keep you at—or working toward—your best. While each provider is needed, the most important member of your health care team is you. Ready to take charge of your health in 2025? Here are some ways to get started. Plan your 2025 appointments now The beginning of a new year is a perfect time to schedule routine appointments in advance. Call your doctor, dentist, and other medical providers in January and plan your visit...
If you have a behavioral health condition, it’s important to visit your provider regularly to make sure your treatment is working. And if you have other medical issues, it is important to balance those needs with your mental health care. What is Care Coordination? Care coordination happens when all of your providers have the same information about your health needs and preferences. When your behavioral health, medical, and pharmacy providers all have access to your health records, they can work together...
Your baby’s bath times may be some of your favorite moments of their first years. While you’re washing their skin and hair, you are also making time to bond with your new son or daughter. There’s another important goal for bath time—safety. Babies can drown in just a few inches of water. While drownings are rare, it is much more common for babies to suffer other types of injuries in the tub. Are you ready to make bath time as risk-free as possible for your baby? Read through the safety tips below. Start...
The holiday season is often a magical time for children. It can be exciting to see the twinkling lights, open gifts, and take a break from school. But the holidays can also bring up intense emotions and high stress for children and families. If you’re a parent or caregiver, it’s important to make your child’s mental health a priority during the holidays. Check out these tips to help your family have a joyful – and emotionally healthy – holiday season: 1. Stick to a Routine. Children do best when they ha...
At birth, most babies weigh somewhere between 6 and 8½ pounds. Low birth weight means the baby weighs less than 5½ pounds. If a baby weighs too little at birth, they will need extra help during their first few hours and days in the hospital. They may also need extra care after you take them home. Babies with low birth weight may: have problems eating have trouble gaining weight be prone to catching infections be at risk for some long-term health problems have difficulty controlling their body temperatur...
High blood pressure can be a serious health problem for people with chronic conditions like diabetes. According to Johns Hopkins Medicine, a leading center for medical research, a person with high blood sugar (diabetes) is two times more likely to be affected by high blood pressure (also called hypertension) than a person who does not have diabetes. Two out of three adults with diabetes have high blood pressure. If high blood pressure is not treated, it can lead to a heart attack or a stroke. What is Bl...
Taking good care of your teeth and gums is important for your dental health. It’s also important for the health of your entire body. Brushing and flossing removes bacteria on and between your teeth. During professional cleanings, your dentist removes bacteria more thoroughly, including the areas just under your gumline. Bacteria can cause infections inside your teeth and gums. Harmful bacteria can then spread from your mouth to your bloodstream, creating problems throughout your body. A few of these hea...
Cervical cancer is one of the most common cancers diagnosed in women. The symptoms can be mild. Sometimes there are no symptoms at all. The good news is that cervical cancer is easy to prevent—especially if you start early. Girls as young as 11 years old can get a vaccine against human papillomavirus (HPV) , a virus that can lead to cervical cancer. Keep reading to learn more about how girls and women of all ages can prevent cervical cancer. What is the cervix? The cervix connects the lower part of the ...
It’s time to get your flu shot! Influenza, usually called “the flu,” is a virus that can make you very sick. Flu season—meaning the time most people get sick—starts in October and ends in May. Some common myths and facts about the flu are shown below. Use this information to make the right health choices for you and your family. Myth : I don’t need the flu shot because I'm healthy. Fact: The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that everyone gets a flu shot begin...
Human Immunodeficiency Virus, more commonly known as HIV, is a virus that attacks cells in the immune system. If untreated, it can lead to acquired immunodeficiency syndrome, or AIDS. AIDS is the final, most advanced stage of HIV. HIV can be treated. But it must be treated for life. Without treatment, it can lead to life-threatening complications like severe infections and some kinds of cancers. Signs and Symptoms If a person is going to have symptoms, they will usually appear within two to four weeks a...
Sometimes, staying healthy takes a little extra effort – and it’s nice when you can get rewarded for it! Parkland Community Health Plan’s Member Rewards program gives members the chance to earn reward points for completing health and wellness activities. Once you earn the points, you can use them to get gift cards and other items from a rewards catalog . One way to earn rewards: visiting the doctor! Earn a $20 reward value when you : Visit your primary care provider (PCP) within 90 days of joining Parkl...
Does your child have diabetes? If so, you know that some days are easier, and some days are more challenging. Diabetes is a chronic condition. That means your child will need to manage their symptoms throughout their lives. The good news is you can help your child learn to plan ahead for any medical emergencies they might experience when away from home. A good place to start? By creating a diabetes management plan. Keep reading for tips for working with your child’s teachers, school nurse, and sports co...
Does your child have asthma? If so, you know that some days are easier, and some days are more challenging. Asthma is a chronic condition. That means your child will need to manage their symptoms throughout their lives. The good news is you can help your child learn to plan ahead for any medical emergencies they might experience when away from home. A good place to start? By creating an Asthma Action Plan. Keep reading for tips for working with your child’s teachers, school nurse, and sports coaches so ...
Want to help your children build dental care habits that last a lifetime? Start when they are young. From brushing to flossing, children can learn the basics in ways that are easy and fun. That means the habits are more likely to stick. Here are a few tips to try: Use colorful toothbrushes Toothbrushes are sold in a variety of colors. Some even feature cartoon or movie characters on the handle. Let your child choose their own toothbrush at the store. Buy fun floss picks When your child's teeth start to ...
Texas is known for its hot summer days. And Texans know how to beat the heat during normal summer days. The rules are different, however, for extreme heat. “Extreme heat” means two or more days that are much hotter than average. According to the American Red Cross, extreme heat kills more people than any other weather event. Air conditioning and fans can help you to stay cool—unless the power goes out. Plan now with the tips below so you and your family can stay safe during an extreme heat emergency. Le...
Asthma is a condition that affects the lungs and may impact a person’s ability to breathe. The good news is that it is usually easy to control with medication. Both children and adults can get asthma, but it may affect them in different ways. Asthma is usually more persistent in adults, so they often have it for a longer period of time. Kids may experience asthma symptoms on and off, with symptoms getting better as they grow up. Many signs of asthma are the same in kids and adults – but some symptoms ar...
Healthy teeth are an important part of your overall health. After all, none of us want to feel discomfort or pain when biting, chewing, brushing, flossing—and smiling! The best way to keep your teeth and gums as healthy as possible is to visit your dentist for routine checkups and cleanings. Ask your dentist if you should come once a year or more often. Reasons to schedule a dentist appointment Even if you do not notice any symptoms, you might have a tiny cavity in a tooth or plaque or tartar beneath yo...
Sometimes, living with a chronic condition can feel overwhelming. But you don't have to go through it alone! PCHP’s Be In Control program helps members with chronic conditions to get resources that help them manage their health. If you’re part of the program, be sure to ask your case manager or doctor these questions: Am I using my medication correctly? To manage your condition, it’s important to understand the right way to take your medication. Ask your case manager or doctor about: How much medicine t...
Parents usually take their children to the doctor when they don’t feel well, or if they need help with a certain condition. But regular doctor visits are an important part of your child’s care, too – even when they’re healthy. If your doctor sees you on a regular basis, they will be more likely to find health issues quickly and keep them from getting worse over time. They can also identify chronic conditions that may require additional care throughout your child’s life. Preventive care can include: Well...
Effective February 15, 2024, MinuteClinic will be part of Parkland Community Health Plan’s provider network. MinuteClinic operates in more than 100 CVS Pharmacy locations throughout Texas and offers a range of services for children and adults, including: Routine health screenings and physicals Treatment for common illnesses and injuries Vaccines Prescriptions Support for chronic conditions like diabetes and high blood pressure. You can visit the PCHP Provider Directory or the MinuteClinic website to sea...