April Already?     

So much has changed in the three months since my last newsletter, and I have lots of exciting things to share with you.  There really is quite a bit, and it is all important, so please take the five minutes or so to read straight through.  Let’s get started.   

1-I lost 20 pounds!  Yeah!    

2-Mayra, one of our certified physician assistants (PA-C) is going out on maternity leave.  She is expecting a girl, Isabella Sophia, who I plan on delivering next month.  Congratulations!   

3-We want to welcome Cathy Lewis, PA-C who is also a Certified Lactation Consultant by the International Board of Certified Lactation Consultants (IBCLC).  She received her PA training at Stanford.  She will assist me in taking great care of all of our patients, but her expertise is in newborns and breastfeeding.  She brings a wealth of experience and previously worked at UC Davis Medical Center as a lactation consultant for Labor and Delivery.   

4-We are excited to now have breastfeeding consultation appointments for our patients. We also decided to extend this service to families who are not our current patients.  Therefore, a mom and baby may see us for breastfeeding consultation only and still keep their outside OB or pediatrician for other care.  We most often can bill this service to insurance, but when we cannot, the cash pay price is $65 for 45 minutes.  If you know a mom having difficulty with breastfeeding, please refer her to our office.    

5-We also want to welcome Steve Goldstein, MFT, a licensed marriage and family therapist with 20 years of experience, who has joined our incredible team to help us provided Integrated Behavioral Health Visits.  While working on his Doctorate of Behavioral Health, he will help us provide effective, brief interventions for problems like depression, anxiety, hyperactivity, shyness, family difficulties, stress, and worries about health and physical problems.  This is not old fashioned therapy. This is the future of medicine.  Integrated behavioral health visits are available on Wednesdays through December from 9 AM to 5 PM.  Appointments range from 15 minutes to 1 hour.  Usually insurance coverage and copays apply.   

6-We extended our evening hours.  Now open Monday through Thursday from 8 AM to 8 PM and Friday from 8 AM to 6 PM.  Phones are answered 8 AM to 6 PM.  Lunch is still 1-2 Monday through Thursday, but extended to 12:30 to 2 on Friday.    

7-My schedule is reserved for our pregnant patients on Thursday from 2 PM to 8 PM.  Hopefully, more dads will be able to join us and patients can receive OB care without having to take time from work. (Other providers are available for non pregnant patients until 6 PM.)   

8-Referring a friend or family member has never been easier.  After seven years of mandatory Orientation for all new patients, I have gotten that critical information jam packed into a 20 minute video.  New patients can watch the video when they come in to register or during their first appointment.  Now you can become a new patient in a matter of minutes!!      

9-We now accept Tricare Insurance.    

10-The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists announced new pap smear and cancer screening guidelines (read more).  This means most women will need a pap smear every 2-3 years instead of annually.  At your annual Well Women Exam, we review your medical history carefully to determine if a pap smear is needed that year.  Make sure you still come in once yearly for other important preventative care.    

11-Outstanding medical care has traditionally included screening female patients for the sexually transmitted diseases gonorrhea and chlamydia.  For several reasons male patients were not screened as often or as thoroughly.  One reason was that testing was uncomfortable.  Another is that men don’t go to the doctor as often as women.  Many men do not ask to be tested because they think they are not at risk or are invincible and getting a STD cannot happen to them.  But women get these STD’s from…men, who, to be fair, get it from women…  To be more thorough, we have instituted a new policy of testing all male patients at least once.  With a simple urine sample, testing for these diseases is now quick and easy.  This test is sent to the lab and is completely confidential.   

NEW ADULT WAITING ROOM    

12-We have a new Adult Waiting Room which allows for more privacy at the front desk.   

13-Finally, I’m grateful for the following recognition:   

    *American Medical Association Physician’s Recognition Award   

    *Patient Choice Award   

    *Outstanding Group Volunteer Award for our participation in the community-wide H1N1 Free Clinics.   

14-(I had to add one more for the superstitious folks.)  Had a blast doing a couple hundred high school sports physicals with my colleagues at Consumnes Oaks.   

Well that is everything.  Thank you for taking the time.  I’m confident the next newsletter will be much shorter.     

And as always, here’s my little Luca.   

At Vails Family Practice, our whole purpose is to take care of you – to provide comprehensive, personal health care to you and your families.  I am grateful to continue to care for you and your families.

Remember we grew from just one patient and your referrals will allow us to thrive during tough economic times.  Please consider forwarding this email to a friend or family member.   

Sincerely,   

Julie Vails, MD    

Vails Family Practice   

916.691.4300   

The American Board of Family Medicine is pleased to announce the successful completion of its Recertification Examination by Julie Laverne Vails, MD.  Board Certification confers a standard of excellence in knowledge and practice to physicians who not only certify via the examination process, but who also work diligently on the maintenance of these skills during the seven-year cycle between examinations.

To achieve recertification by the ABFM, a family physician must verify the completion of 300 hours of acceptable continuing medical education over the past six years; possess a full and unrestricted license to practice medicine in the United States; and successfully complete a one-day, written examination of cognitive knowledge and problem-solving abilities.  This examination covers the disciplines of specialty including, but not limited to: adult medicine; care of newborns, infants, children and adolescents; maternity and gynecological care; community medicine; care of the older patient; human behavior and mental health; and care of the surgical patient.

New shipment of nasal H1N1 received!!

 IN STOCK:

H1N1 Nasal Flu Mist

H1N1 Flu Shots (all ages & pregnancy)

Seasonal Flu Shots (6 months to 35 months)

FLU VACCINE HOURS

M/T/W/F 9-1 2-6    Th 2-6
No appointment necessary.
OPEN TO THE PUBLIC

Click on any photo for details:

Happy New Year!!  

I’ve never been big on New Year’s resolutions, but this year is different.  A lot for me has changed, and my life is amazingly quieting down.  My adorable son is getting older, the office is rolling along smoothly, I completed my seven hour long American Board of Family Medicine recertification test (which took two months of studying during every minute I wasn’t doing something else), and finally the H1N1/flu shot ruckus is nearly over.  I actually enjoyed a quiet three day weekend with my family.  Well, semi-quiet, I did deliver a baby, performed two circumcisions and fielded about ten patient calls, but quiet is relative and this feels good.  So good that I am hopeful that this year I will be finally able to take better care of me. 

I have nearly run out of excuses for not taking good care of myself and with the recent loss of our own April’s husband, Jack, who died days before Christmas at age 45, I am reminded that my health is not only important to me but to my family as well.  So it is truly time for a lifestyle change, not just a New Year’s resolution. 

 

I went to Zumba class with my daughters two days in a row.  I restarted my TSFL/Medifast meals.  I cleaned my closet.  I took a nap.  I went to the movies!!!  Ahh, yes.  It is a new day.  And I am excited to encourage you to join me in getting healthier by living a more balanced life.  If losing weight is on your list, consider learning more about the TSFL / Medifast Weight Loss Program (below).

 

I also need to ask each of you to do a little something for me.  Remember, please do not call me on the evenings and weekends if whatever ails you can wait until normal business hours.  Also please, please cancel your appointments with at least 24 hours notice.  I am tired of being the bad guy asking everyone to pay their cancellation fees, and our staff spends quite a bit of time preparing for your arrival.  Those two little things will go a long way in helping me lead a less stressed life.  Thank you.

  

TSFL/MEDIFAST TASTING THIS WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 6TH 5:30 to 7:30 PM  

The Take Shape for Life program featuring Medifast meals promotes healthy eating without gimmicks, is affordable and works. It is a complete lifestyle program featuring great tasting meal replacements combined with the education and support of our team.

We are hosting a free tasting of Medifast meals and explaining the TSFL Weight Loss Program on Wednesday, January 6th from 5:30 to 7:00 at our office. Meet Terri, a VFP patient, who has already lost 25+ pounds since our last tasting. 

Please call or click to RSVP. You can bring friends or family members. They do not have to be a patient to benefit from the program. If you can’t make it, join us any Tuesday from 4 to 5 pm or learn more at our website at www.vailsfp.com/weight-loss.

 

 

What else is new? 

 

I am grateful to have been invited to be a guest speaker at the upcoming eWomen Network event on January 28th.  If you would like to join me for this powerful evening of encouragement, empowerment, joy & laughter click here.

New Staff

We want to welcome Rosie and DeAnna, medical assistants, to our team.  I’m confident they will be great additions.  They are looking forward to taking great care of you.
 

New Bumper Stickers 

Please ask for one at check in/out.  They come in red, pink, blue, grey, yellow and green for both boys and girls. 

 

Congratulations to Genevieve, office manager, voted Employee of the Month for December.  Great work!

 

 

Thank you

Finally, thank you to each and every patient that referred a friend or family member to our office this past year.  And a very humble thank you to our Sutter patients who participated in Sutter’s Patient Satisfaction Survey.  Your incredible comments remind us why we come to work each day and will serve to inspire us for this upcoming NEW YEAR!!

 

 

Finally, here’s my little Luca brushing his teeth.

  

At Vails Family Practice, our whole purpose is to take care of you – to provide comprehensive, personal health care to you and your families.  I am grateful to continue to care for you and your families. 

  

Sincerely,

 

Julie Vails, MD 

Vails Family Practice 

 

 

 

 

 

 

New shipment of H1N1 received!! 

December 4, 2009

FLU VACCINE HOURS 

M/T/W/F 9-1 2-6    Th 2-6
No appointment necessary.
OPEN TO THE PUBLIC

 ENTER THROUGH THE PEDIATRIC DOOR

H1N1 & SEASONAL FLU VACCINES IN STOCK NOW…

We have H1N1 flu shots (no nasal vaccines) available for all ages including pregnant women.   You no longer need to be in a priortity group to get the vaccine.  

We have Seasonal flu shots available for all ages (not including pregnant women).  

We are not expecting any additional seasonal flu shipments this season, so please get your seasonal flu vaccine NOW!!

For specific information about each type of flu vaccine, please see the prior emails on my blog.

 An administration fee will be billed to your insurance if you are a VFP patient and is $20 for the public for H1N1 and $25 for seasonal flu vaccine. You can drop in to get the vaccine – see our flu vaccine hours above.  Please do not arrive before 9 AM.  It is available on a first come, first served basis only.

Website Flu Page

Reminder, if you do get sick with a fever and a cough or other flu-like symptoms this season,  you may find helpful information on our website flu page.

Sacramento Parent Magazine’s December issue features my little Luca.  It is titled Extra-Ordinary Kids:  No Mom’s Land.

 At Vails Family Practice, our whole purpose is to take care of you – to provide comprehensive, personal health care to you and your families.  I am grateful to continue to care for you and your families. 

Remember we grew from just one patient and your referrals will allow us to thrive during tough economic times.  Please consider forwarding this email to a friend or family member.

Sincerely,

Julie Vails, MD

Vails Family Practice 

A limited number of ALL vaccines available!!

November 30, 2009

FLU VACCINE HOURS

M/T/W/F 9-1 2-6 Th 2-6
No appointment necessary.
OPEN TO THE PUBLIC

ENTER THROUGH THE PEDIATRIC DOOR

ALL H1N1 & SEASONAL FLU VACCINES IN STOCK NOW…

We have H1N1 flu shots and nasal vaccines available for all ages including pregnant women. You no longer need to be in a priortity group to get the vaccine.

We have Seasonal flu shots available for all ages including pregnant women.

We are not expecting any additional seasonal flu shipments this season, so please get your seasonal flu vaccine NOW!!

For specific information about each type of flu vaccine, please see the prior emails on my blog.

An administration fee will be billed to your insurance if you are a VFP patient and is $20 for the public for H1N1 and $25 for seasonal flu vaccine. You can drop in to get the vaccine – see our flu vaccine hours above. Please do not arrive before 9 AM. It is available on a first come, first served basis only.

Remember

You should not get any type of flu vaccine if you have a severe (life-threatening) allergy to eggs.

Children through 9 years of age should get two doses of vaccine about a month apart. Older children and adults need only one dose. SAVE THE DATE for the next TSFL/MEDIFAST TASTING on WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 6TH 5:30 to 7:30 PM The Take Shape for Life program featuring Medifast meals promotes healthy eating without gimmicks, is affordable and works. It is a complete lifestyle program featuring great tasting meal replacements combined with the education and support of our team.

We are hosting a free tasting of Medifast meals and explaining the TSFL Weight Loss Program on Wednesday, January 6th from 5:30 to 7:00 at our office. Meet some of the VFP patients who have already lost 25+ pounds.

Please call or click to RSVP. You can bring friends or family members. They do not have to be a patient to benefit from the program. If you can’t make it, join us any Tuesday from 4 to 5 pm or learn more at our website at www.vailsfp.com/weight-loss.

Website Flu Page

Reminder, if you do get sick with a fever and a cough or other flu-like symptoms this season, you may find helpful information on our website flu page.

Happy 9th Birthday, Kyleigh!!

Happy Birthday, Gabrielle!!

At Vails Family Practice, our whole purpose is to take care of you – to provide comprehensive, personal health care to you and your families. I am grateful to continue to care for you and your families.

Remember we grew from just one patient and your referrals will allow us to thrive during tough economic times. Please consider forwarding this email to a friend or family member.

Sincerely,

Julie Vails, MD

Vails Family Practice

Click on any photo for details:

A limited number of H1N1 Flu Shots have arrived!!

FLU VACCINE HOURS 

M/T/W/F 9-1 2-6    Th 2-6
No appointment necessary.
OPEN TO THE PUBLIC  

ENTER THROUGH THE PEDIATRIC DOOR

Please read carefully…

The Novel H1N1 flu shot for children and adults aged 4 years and older has arrived.   We also have a limited number of H1N1 for pregnant women.  There are a few left of the H1N1 for infants 6 months old to under 3 years old. 

WE DO NOT HAVE H1N1 VACCINE FOR CHILDREN WHO ARE 3 YEARS OLD.  However, if your child is three, you may pay for 2 doses of the less than 3 year old vaccine ($40 for cash pay patients) ($20 for VFP patients – one dose will be billed to your insurance), and your child will receive 2 shots at the same time.   

We also have a few SEASONAL FLU vaccines for infants 6 months old to under 3 years old.  People over 3 and pregnant women may purchase 2 injections to equal one dose ($50 for cash pay patients) ($25 for VFP patients – one dose will be billed to your insurance), and you/your child will receive 2 shots at the same time. 

An administration fee will be billed to your insurance if you are a VFP patient and is $20 for the public for H1N1 and $25 for seasonal flu vaccine. You can drop in to get the vaccine – see our flu vaccine hours above.  Please do not arrive before 9 AM.  It is available on a first come, first served basis only.

Inactived, Injectable Influenza Vaccines

Currently all of our vaccines are inactivated (not live attenuated) shots.  Infant and pregnant women flu shots are preservative (thimersol) free.  Children with asthma or diabetes may get these shot.  You should not get any type of flu vaccine if you have a severe (life-threatening) allergy to eggs.   

Children through 9 years of age should get two doses of vaccine about a month apart.  Older children and adults need only one dose. 

As a reminder: 

Groups recommended to receive 2009 H1N1 LAIV 

 FIRST* are healthy people who are: 

2 through 24 years old or

25 through 64 years old and

• Live with or care for infants younger than 6 months of age – parents, siblings, daycare providers, grandparents
• Are health care or emergency medical personnel
• Live with or care for persons with medical conditions that put them at higher risk for severe complications from flu (asthma, diabetes, heart condition, etc.)

(* recommend through November 24th)

Latest from the Public Health Department 

The Health Department sent out an email yesterday stating that until further notice no more H1N1 vaccines will be sent to ANY DOCTOR’S OFFICES even if they ordered it a long time ago.  They are reserving all of the remaining vaccines for their County clinics.  The two in Elk Grove will be on Dec. 7 at Sheldon High School and Dec. 12 at Franklin High School. The full schedule can be viewed at www.sacpublichealth.net.

Website Flu Page

Reminder, if you do get sick with a fever and a cough or other flu-like symptoms this season, you may find helpful information on our website flu page.

P.S.  I promise to stop emailing so much as soon as the flu season settles.

At Vails Family Practice, our whole purpose is to take care of you – to provide comprehensive, personal health care to you and your families.  I am grateful to continue to care for you and your families. 

Remember we grew from just one patient and your referrals will allow us to thrive during tough economic times.  Please consider forwarding this email to a friend or family member.

Sincerely, 

Julie Vails, MD

Vails Family Practice