General Resources

Have you ever wondered about the role a medical assistant (MA) plays in a physician’s office? Have you thought about becoming a medical assistant? It’s a fulfilling, in-demand career choice for those who enjoy people and variety in their daily work.

“It’s a career path in health care that isn’t often talked about,” says Erin LaDuke, a recruiter with Human Resources at Holland Hospital. “Many people think about nursing, but for some, medical assisting offers a fast-track to a respected career in health care.”

Staying active is important for our overall health and well-being. And while just as important in winter, the shorter days and snowy weather make staying active a bit more challenging. Winter poses another concern when it comes to staying safe – not only during exercise but also while going about day-to-day activities: an increased risk of slips and falls.

Be aware of some common contributors to the rise of slips, trips and falls in winter weather:

Are you interested in a career opportunity in health care but lack experience? Do you enjoy learning new skills? Are you someone who genuinely wants to care for others and be a valued part of a clinical team? If so, you could be a Patient Care Assistant at Holland Hospital!

Patient Care Assistants (PCAs) are a vital part of our collaborative care delivery team. They serve every clinical unit and assist nurses in caring for patients by performing tasks like bathing and feeding patients, taking vital signs, assisting with discharge, or simply sitting and talking with patients.

When you think of a career in health care, you most likely think of doctors and nurses. But there is a department at the center of each hospital that plays an important role in delivering a great patient experience. From scheduling to insurance verification to announcing overhead pages, Holland Hospital cannot operate smoothly without Patient Access.

“Patient Access is often the first point of contact for any patient coming into the hospital,” says Erin Locker, supervising coordinator.

A quick walk outdoors or a few moments spent sitting in the sun can be a shortcut to feeling better quickly. In fact, time spent outside is so beneficial to our overall health that doctors are starting to give patients “nature prescriptions”, a specific amount of time the doctor instructs a patient to spend enjoying the outdoors. 

Sleep plays a crucial role in our overall health and quality of life, which is why it’s critical to catch and address any conditions that disrupt our sleep. One of the most common sleep disturbances is a potentially serious sleep disorder called obstructive sleep apnea or OSA.

 

Nearly half of millennials, the generation born between 1981 and 1996, do not have an established relationship with a go-to doctor. A recent survey conducted by the Kaiser Family Foundation found that 45% of adults age 18 to 29 reported having no primary care physician. 

 

Studies have shown that patients who have good relationships with their doctors tend to have better health outcomes. A strong doctor-patient relationship builds honesty, trust and open communication that enable a doctor to provide quality personal care. 

 

Flu vaccination week is around the corner. It’s not too late to roll up your sleeve and get your shot.

 

“Because the COVID-19 pandemic is still very much a reality, it’s particularly important to vaccinate yourself and your family against influenza this season,” said Lauren McGraw, DO, Holland Hospital Family Medicine – Douglas.

 

It’s estimated that 1 in 5 Americans suffers from chronic pain every year. Chronic pain is categorized as pain that typically lasts longer than six months. Osteoarthritis, fibromyalgia and neck or back pain are all conditions that can result in chronic pain, and can significantly affect quality of life.

 

The official first day of fall is just around the corner, and with the COVID-19 pandemic still very much a reality, getting your flu shot might be more important than ever.