Empowering Native Wellness

Spring 2020 A quarterly newsletter published for the clients and associates of Indian Health Council, Inc. Volume 36 Issue 1

50th ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION TAKES PLACE MAY 14th

We are excited to announce that
Indian Health Council’s 50th Anniversary
Celebration will be held right here at the
Rincon Clinic on May 14, 2020 from 10am-
3pm. Everyone in the community is invited
to participate in what promises to be a
momentous and memorable occasion. The
joyous community event is currently in the
planning stages.
In addition to a healthy lunch and one-mile wellness walk,
the event will feature prestigious speakers. These include
Billy Mills (Oglala Sioux), a 1964 Olympian Gold Medalist,
Running Strong for American Indian Youth
co-founder, and inspiring motivational
speaker; and Evan Adams (Coast Salish),
who in addition to being a highly regarded
actor is also a physician currently serving
as Chief Medical Officer of the First Nations
Health Authority in British Columbia.
The planning committee, comprised of
employees from all IHC departments, is
looking forward to celebrating our 50-year journey of
Empowering Native Wellness with the community. See
you there!

Orvin Hanson Appointed Interim CEO Community Needs Assessment

IHC’s Board of Directors has
appointed Orvin Hanson to the
position of Interim Chief Executive
Officer. Orvin has been employed
with IHC since 1992 and has amassed
an array of accomplishments serving
in key executive positions; most
recently as Chief Financial Officer.
Orvin states, “I am humbled and
blessed to work with amazing people.” Please join with our
Board and staff in congratulating him!
Will Drive Future Planning
In 2020, Indian Health Council, Inc. is kicking off its next
50 years with a Community Needs Assessment (CNA) intended
to help IHC better understand if the current services being
offered at the clinic are meeting the community’s needs.
The CNA is being reviewed under the auspices of the Board
of Directors. The process is spearheaded by Chief Operating
Officer Angelina Renteria, Human Resources Director
Natasha Siva and Business Intelligence Director Corinna
Nyquist. Results will be used to drive the 2020 Strategic
Planning Process that begins this spring. (continued on page 2)

INSIDE THIS ISSUE

FOLLOW U S

@indianhealthcouncil
www.indianhealth.com An Angel Tree Christmas Innovative Tribal Ambulatory Dental Employees Sink Their Teeth
1 Spring 2020 for the Ages, page 2 Healthcare Experience Begins, page 3 into New Responsibilities, page 8
 (continued from page 1)

Community Needs Assessment Will Drive Future Planning

Data Will Provide a Roadmap to the Future
The Community Needs Assessment process is energetical-
ly under way. Angelina reports, “We are currently conduct-
ing short five-minute assessments as well as targeted focus
groups with two or more Tribal members from each of our
nine consortium Tribes. The responses we receive to our sur-
vey questions, along with additional information gathered by
Health Promotions Department’s Sasha Spite and other staff,
will enable us to compile data we will share with the Board.
The report will drive the Strategic Plan, which will help us
continue growing and evolving to meet our clients’ needs.”
Many Ways to Share Your Thoughts Pictured here is founding Administrator Dennis Magee with staff at the
Angelina invites community members who have not yet very beginning of IHC. Since our inception in 1970, we have been driven
by our passion to serve our community.
participated in the CNA to take advantage of opportunities
to share their thoughts, positive and negative, about their
experiences at IHC. “We want to hear from you. What areas Most of all, says Angelina, “We want our clients – and the
do you think need improvement; what new programs and entire community – to know that our first and foremost com-
services would you like to see; what healthcare issues are mitment is to you. Empowering Native Wellness is our rea-
priorities for you and your family?” son for existing. Since our inception in 1970, we have been
Some participation opportunities are available 24/7. driven by our passion to serve our community. Participating
IHC clients are invited to fill out a Comment Form online in our Community Needs Assessment process will directly im-
at https://www.indianhealth.com/comment-form or to pact the future of our organization, which in turn will di-
leave a message on our Comment/Suggestion Line at 760- rectly impact your health and the health of our community.”
749-1410, option 9. Patients at the clinic can complete a
Comment Form found in department lobbies, feeling free to IHC’s first and foremost commitment, as
submit the form anonymously in the provided box or hand it
to a staff member. reflected in the Community Needs Assessment
process, is to clients and the community.

An Angel Tree Christmas for the Ages!

The entire community came together last December to “Donations came
give Native foster families a memorable Christmas party. IHC from near and far.
staff, Tribes, community members and organizations donated Parishioners from Los
$6,000 to Tribal Family Services’ efforts on behalf of one of Angeles Kateri Circle of
our consortium’s most vulnerable groups: foster youth. In St Francis Xavier church
addition to the 25 delighted kids attending the lively TFS donated toys and new
Angel Tree party with clothes. Locally, Tribes
their foster parents, 75 4 Christ crafted hand-
gifts were delivered to made blankets and the Natives Riders ‘sleighed’ in with good-
the homes of families ies and gift cards. The Tait family rented a van to deliver all
unable to attend. their gifts. Generous monetary donations came from Judge
Party-goers enjoyed William Thorne, Jr., Deacon Abara, and the Tribes of Agua
a tasty Italian din- Caliente, Barona, Pala, Pechanga, Rincon and San Pasqual.
ner, photo booth fun, Our IHC staff looks forward to selecting ‘Angels’ from our
Santa’s arrival and fun tree each year and they fulfilled a majority of gift items. The
surprises. TFS Director event really showed our Native foster families how much we
Karan Kolb recounts, all care!”

2 Spring 2020
Innovative Tribal Ambulatory Healthcare Experience Begins at IHC

As the new decade dawned, a heritage of our nine Luiseño and

groundbreaking partnership be- Kumeyaay consortium tribes and
tween Indian Health Council, Inc. understand the role of IHC’s patient-
(IHC) and UC San Diego School of centered medical home in providing
Medicine began with little fanfare a full spectrum of culturally-appro-
but great promise. The innova- priate services.”
tive Tribal Ambulatory Healthcare The initial two students began
Experience program could well be- their Tribal Ambulatory Healthcare
come a model program replicated Experience in late January. Each will
at other Native ambulatory clinics meet with Dr. Dan Calac three to
UCSD med students Alex and Sofia, center, are flanked by Alec Calac
throughout the county, and beyond. and Katherine Garcia, Coordinator, UCSD PRIME-Health Equity. five times, directly engage in clini-
The Experience offers elective cal patient encounters and complete
credit to medical students who shadow IHC physicians over a reflection paper describing their experience and lessons
the course of an academic quarter. In addition to learning learned.
key components of generalized subjects such as physical ex- Alec shared that he designed this elective after learning
ams and chronic disease management, students further their that there were no opportunities for medical students to en-
understanding of Native American health services delivery gage with American Indian communities in San Diego County.
and challenges, including lower life expectancy compared He coordinated with several UCSD faculty members, includ-
with other populations. ing Dr. Charles Goldberg, who serves as Course Director.
A Transformational Experience All involved hope that this will be the first of many com-
According to Alec Calac (Luiseño-Pauma), UCSD medical munity-centered initiatives that address Native health at
student and son of IHC’s Chief Medical Officer Dan Calac, MD, UCSD’s School of Medicine. Stay tuned for an update on this
“Students will also gain an appreciation of the rich cultural transformational program.
In addition to obtaining medical expertise, Tribal Ambulatory Healthcare Experience students will gain
an appreciation of the rich cultural heritage of our nine consortium tribes and understand the role of
IHC’s patient-centered medical home in providing culturally-appropriate services.

SY Elders Craft a Come to the 4/15/20

Bunch of Lunch Fun PEI Spring Event
Were you one of
the 300+ commu-
nity members who
enjoyed 2019’s
R E Z J U V E N AT IO N
Spring Event? You
don’t want to miss
our April 15, 2020
festivities.
Prevention and
2019 Spring Event art project
Early Intervention
Having kicked off 2019 with a resolution to be more (PEI) organizers are planning to make IHC’s 2020 Spring
active, the Santa Ysabel Craft and Wellness group fol- Event entertaining, educational, and fun for people of
lowed through on their commitment, and finished off the all ages. Save the date, check our social media for up-
year with an enjoyable luncheon, thanks to IHC’s Health dates, and plan to enjoy a special day of performances,
Promotion Services team. Creativity, camaraderie and arts and crafts, wellness information, awesome activi-
conviviality continue for this lively bunch in 2020. ties, and a delicious lunch!

Spring 2020 3
 Key Contributor Corinna Nyquist Named IHC’s
Newly Created Business Intelligence Director
Corinna Nyquist began 2020 with two well-deserved acco-
lades and a clear vision of her 20-year career at Indian Health
Council. She was honored as first quarter Key Contributor
and was promoted to the newly created position of Business
Intelligence Director.
Corinna holds BS degrees in Nursing and Psychology. She
is a NextGen Certified Professional in PM, EHR and Document
Management. This strong educational background plus her
progressive work experience in Utilization Review and as
Director of Ambulatory Services and Clinical Information
Systems Manager make her an extremely knowledgeable and
valuable member of IHC’s executive team.
Corinna recalls, “When I joined IHC in 2000, my first
assignment was to help the clinic achieve Accreditation
Association for Ambulatory Health Care (AAAHC) status. We
accomplished that in 2002 and have received the maximum
three-year renewals ever since.”
Her new position’s wide-ranging responsibilities are vital
to the functioning and advancement of the clinic. In ad-
dition to remaining the AAAHC Lead, IHC’s new Business
Intelligence Director oversees Clinical Information Systems,
Purchased Referred Care, Health Information Management
and Compliance.
Continually Striving for Excellence
Programs and systems are continually evolving, which
makes Corinna’s job a meaty challenge she relishes. She con-
firms, “We have gone through massive transformations as an
organization and I have been privileged to serve as a change
agent. We continually search for and seize opportunities
through technology to improve
the care we provide to the com-
munity. Data has driven the
process. During my tenure, we
have taken numerous leaps:
going from paper charts to an
electronic health record; add-
ing a mobile app and virtual
visits; and incorporating other
cutting-edge processes that in-
crease work efficiencies and im-
prove the overall well-being of Corinna Nyquist
the community we serve.”
Not surprisingly, Corinna considers her colleagues “my
second family; I probably spend more time here than with
my actual family. I have been married for 30+ years to my
high school sweetheart. We have two adult children and a
cat, Zeus, who is king of the house. I love traveling, reading
and spending time with my family.”
Make that spending time with BOTH families. She reports,
“I am honored to be recognized by my peers for simply do-
ing my job. I listen, ponder and test ideas to improve pro-
cesses. Some work. If they don’t, I return to the drawing
board. I’m looking forward to the next 10 years!”
The feeling is mutual. Human Resources Director Natasha
Siva states, “Being able to attract, retain, and support the
internal career advancement of Key Contributors such as
Corinna Nyquist keeps the clinic, our clients and the com-
munity on a strong and healthy path.”

SENIORS HAVE A BALL AT FUN FEB. TOURNEY

They may be in chairs, but no one takes a back seat to our senior athletes!
IHC’s PEI Program, funded by the County of San Diego Mental Health Services
Act, hosted a fun and exciting Senior Chair Volleyball Round-Robin Tournament
at the Pauma Casino Pavilion on February 19, 2020.
According to George Pojas, PEI Health Educator II, “We wanted to do our
part to promote February as Heart Month. Our motto throughout the month
was ‘Make Health a Habit.’ To pursue this goal, in addition to the friendly
competition of the games with volleyball players cheered on by an enthusi-
astic audience of spectators, we offered lunch, guest speakers and an array of
community-oriented information booths.”
The tournament took place while this newsletter was in production. Check
out IHC’s social media platforms for scores, winners and photos. And let’s make
health a habit that lasts all year long!

4 Spring 2020
 Pound for Pound, Med Disposal Box is a Huge Success
In the Spring 2019 Newsletter, we an-
nounced the installation of a Medication
Disposal Box in the Rincon Pharmacy
offering a safe, quick and convenient
way for patients to dispose of unused
or expired prescribed (Rx) and over-the-
counter (OTC) medicines. By October 9,
2019, a whopping 117.25 pounds of
medications were collected, with ap-
proximately 40 more pounds by the end
of the year.
including pills, tablets, capsules, oint-
ments, creams, inhalers and properly
packaged liquids. Please check the list
of acceptable and non-acceptable items
BEFORE discarding anything in the box.
If you are unsure about a product’s ac-
ceptability, please ask a Pharmacy em-
ployee for assistance.”
Ella adds, “We thank everyone for
properly disposing of these potentially
dangerous substances and thus contrib-

ng:
Wow! “IHC’s Drug Take-Back program uting to making our homes, our com-
has achieved great success,” confirms munity and our environment a safer
Pharmacy Director Ella Solis, PharmD. place.”

TS
“We accept a wide array of items,

Register for Rx Text Alerts A Reminder

Wondering when your
prescription will be ready
ns for pick-up? You can eas-
ily register to receive a
You can also call us and use Dial-a-
Script to order your prescription refill any If your call to the Pharmacy is not
time, day or night. If you’re up at 2:30
am, so are we – electronically speaking.
answered right away, that means

ck up
we are helping another patient.
text alert and we’ll notify you when If you’re calling during business hours Please leave a message with your
your Rx is complete. Just stop by and prefer talking to Pharmacy staff di- phone number, and a staff mem-
ff
macy sta
the Pharmacy to sign up or call us at rectly, we’re here for you! ber will return your call ASAP.
760-749-1410, option 6.
up

HARMA
CY
Native Film Night
NCIL P
6
Wellness
a Success
The January 30, 2020 Native Film Night featured short
films that were long on meaningful content. The evening
dinner event was held at IHC’s MultiPurpose Room and
live-streamed as well.
Behavioral Health Director Beth Turner reports, “We
presented a series of Native short Films by Condor Visual
Media on topics of importance to the community. Each
category was followed by a question-and-answer session
to explore the issues more fully.” The event culminat-
ed in a world premiere showing of “I See You: Native
Perspectives on Violence & Intergenerational Trauma.”
Beth believes, “The evening was a success. Community
members gathered in an informal, non-intimidating set-
ting to watch and discuss subjects that touch many peo-
ple in Indian Country.”
Representation Counts…
2020 Census Begins in April
It is vital that everyone, especially Native Americans,
are counted in the 2020 Census, which kicks off in
April. Conducted once every ten years, Census num-
bers highlight agencies to target funding announce-
ments for our area regarding American Indian/Alaska
Native projects. Federal and state legislature seats
are determined by population, as is each reservation’s
slice of $900+ billion in annual federal spending.
When you receive the Census in the mail or an of-
ficial Tribal Census representative comes to your door,
rest assured that all information you provide is confi-
dential and secure. For more info, visit https://www.
census.gov.
And remember: we count … so make sure we’re all
counted!

Spring 2020 5
 California Native American Research Center for Health (CA-NARCH)

LEONARD ALMERO RECEIVES SYCUAN MEDICAL SCHOLARS AWARD

CA-NARCH STEM standout Leonard Almero (Citizen Potawatomi Nation) has received the Sycuan
Medical Scholars Award from the UCSD School of Medicine Office of Diversity and Community
Partnerships and Association of Native American Medical Students.
A UCSD senior majoring in Biochemistry, Leonard intends to use the $2,600 award to prepare for
the rigorous medical school entrance exam. Knowing that cardiovascular disease is the leading cause
of death for Native Americans, this ambitious student is currently conducting research into com-
pounds that may help limit damage after a heart attack.
In an interview conducted by fellow UCSD/CA-NARCH student Alec Calac, Leonard quipped, “Not
all heroes wear capes, but heroes are those who support and believe in you along your journey. The
Intertribal Resource Center and CA-NARCH support me like my family does. I very much consider them
to be family.”
Leonard reveals, “My overall goal is to obtain an MD/PhD so I can run my own laboratory studying
cardiovascular disease while working as a cardiologist.” Currently creating a free tutoring website to
help Native American youth advance in their chosen fields, he also intends to someday create a foun-
dation and service program to support the next generation of Native American healthcare providers.
All of us at CA-NARCH say: Give Leonard Almero his cape!

JACOB ALVARADO WAIPUK NAMED SDSU’S INAUGURAL TRIBAL LIAISON

Jacob Alvarado Waipuk (Kumeyaay-San Pasqual), a 2014 San Diego State University
graduate who earned his BA in the Department of American Indian Studies where he now
teaches, has been appointed to SDSU’s newly created position of Tribal Liaison. He will
work with area Tribes to recruit Native students to the university and coordinate with
faculty to integrate indigenous perspectives into curricula.
CA-NARCH Principal Investigator, Dan Calac MD, and Geneva Lofton, Program Coordinator
for the IHC Student Mentoring Program, were nominated to the SDSU American Indian
Working Group. It was this group that prioritized action items for the SDSU President and
leadership with the greatest priority given to establishing a Tribal Liaison, which was Photo credit: Scott Hargrove.

acted on nearly immediately. Geneva says, “We look forward to working with Jacob and are confident that one result will be
a more inclusive and welcoming SDSU community.”
Jacob currently is an Assistant Professor and is completing a joint doctorate at UCSD and Cal State San Marcos. He also is a
traditional singer/dancer as well as a busy family guy with two young daughters. Yet he is eager to devote time to work with
youth and his university to create a welcoming home for indigenous students. In an SDSU article, Jacob said, “Education is
going to help our people in a good way.”
We congratulate Jacob and are eager to see his efforts come to fruition. Read more about SDSU’s first Tribal Liaison here
https://newscenter.sdsu.edu/sdsu_newscenter/news_story.aspx?sid=77873.

Indian Health Council, Inc. is funded as a California Native American Research Center for Health by the National Institutes
for Health and Indian Health Service. This innovative partnership promotes greater Tribal control over health and healthcare.
IHC’s donor-funded Student Development Program promotes recruitment of Native Americans into studying for health
and medical science careers at San Diego State University, University of California San Diego, California State University
San Marcos and Palomar Community College. By supporting research and by offering academic mentorship, nurturing and
networking, CA-NARCH strives to reduce health disparities among California Native American populations.
Principal Investigator: Dan Calac, MD. Student Development Program Director: Stephanie Brodine, MD.
Student Development Program Coordinator: Geneva Lofton: glofton@indianhealth.com; 760-801-5590
For more information about CA-NARCH, contact 760-749-1410 or blogan@indianhealth.com.

6 Spring 2020
2020
CA-NARCH X RESEARCH PROJECTS UPDATE
HEALTHY NATIVE NATION FAMILY SUPPORT PROGRAM
Principal Investigator: Annika Montag, PhD
Purpose
We work with families of children who
have developmental disabilities or de-
lays (DDs) to identify their needs and
challenges, and determine how they
can best be addressed. Our goal is to
create treatment and support that is
optimized for our families and the IHC
community.
DDs are a collection of conditions
that may involve physical, learning,
or behavioral problems such as vision,
hearing, or speech impairment, ADHD,
autism, or other issues. Approximately
one in six children has one or more DDs.
Early identification and intervention
improve a child’s developmental tra-
jectory and outcome, reduce the need
for future costly interventions, and em-
power the family.
SHAPing NATIVE HEALTH
Principal Investigator: Tommi Gaines, DrPH (Navajo/Hopi)
Co-Investigator: Richard Armenta, PhD (Yaqui)
Purpose
While a lot of progress has been made
in preventing and treating the human
immunodeficiency virus (HIV) in the
United States, American Indians con-
tinue to be overlooked in public health
prevention strategies. This project will
examine awareness about HIV and other
sexually transmitted infections (STIs)
and identify the most effective way to
deliver HIV/STI prevention strategies
to American Indians.
Progress
We are still conducting caregiver interviews! We are re-
cruiting parents or caregivers who have children struggling
with learning or behavior, or have a diagnosed developmental
disability (DD). Participants are asked to complete a survey
about how they, their child, and the family are doing as well
as brief questionnaires about stress and social support. There
is a gift card incentive.
Soon we will start recruiting families (both caregiver and
child) to create and implement detailed treatment and sup-
port plans. We will also design a community plan to link or
establish resources to benefit families dealing with DDs.
To find out more or make an appointment, please call
The HNNFSP team
Rhonda at 760-749-1410 ext. 5333 or 760-751-6055. Look for believes all pregnancies
information on Indian Health Council’s Facebook page or email should be happy and
healthy. Pictured here
us at healthynativenation@indianhealth.com. with Rhonda Romero
Stay tuned for news regarding our upcoming community- is Shaylynn Norte, who
powered video to prevent risky drinking and fetal alcohol spec- recently delivered two
beautiful and healthy
trum disorders! twin boys.
We invite all caregivers to our monthly support group meet-
ings, held the second Tuesday of every month from 4-5 pm in the Public Health
Library. We offer educational programs, craft activities, conversation and support.
Childcare is provided and refreshments are served.
Progress
SHAPing Native Health (Sexually Transmitted
Infections and HIV Awareness & Prevention) is continu-
ing to make progress collecting data and conducting com-
munity outreach. We are actively recruiting participants for
the HIV/STI study and the opioid use study. Anyone with knowledge about HIV/
STIs and/or Opioid use in the community who is interested in participating can
contact the project coordinator using the contact information below.
Later this Spring we will begin to conduct anonymous health surveys that will be
administered in the community. We will also be tabling at several upcoming com-
munity events, so be on the lookout for our logo to get more information about
the study. Our study staff can be contacted at shaping@indianhealth.com or by
phone/text at 760-290-1703.
Spring 2020 7
 Three Dental Employees Sink Their Teeth into New Responsibilities
When the Dental department recently had three new posi-
tions to fill, Director Carrie Lambert, DDS, did not have to
look far. This trio of stellar employees was right there wait-
ing to step up to new challenges.
Dr. Lambert states, “We are fortunate to offer our clients
a team that exhibits a high level of professionalism, with
providers who genuinely care about their patients and our
Native community.”

ELI SANCHEZ quickly proved his worth upon
joining IHC in 2016 as a Temporary Dental
Assistant. Now, as Dental Manager, he pro-
vides leadership and support for all Dental
staff to ensure department operations meet
an array of standards.
Eli explains, “I primarily manage many be-
hind-the-scenes aspects, including OSHA, Infection Control,
and Electronic Dental Record programs. I aim to innovate
in ways to make the department run efficiently by stream-
lining processes, assessing our workflows and incorporating
changes to improve both staff and patient experiences.”
Saying he enjoys being part of a client-oriented team, Eli
notes, “I love working alongside such caring and compas-
sionate coworkers. We all want to be here and work very hard
to provide the best care possible to the Native communities
we are proud to serve.”
GINA MORENO’s IHC journey began in 2015
as a Registered Dental Assistant (RDA). Now,
as Dental Administrative Assistant, her re-
sponsibilities have increased.
Gina reports, “I provide administrative and
office support for the entire department. I also
help coordinate the Dental staff schedule to
assure we are fully staffed and prepared for the day, so that
we may provide excellent patient care to our communities.”
Gina says, “I love working at IHC because it gives employ-
ees an opportunity to grow professionally.”
JENNIFER PETERSON, RDAEF, who joined IHC
in 2013 as RDA Endodontic Coordinator, has
assumed her Dental RDA Supervisor respon-
sibilities with vigor. She states, “I supervise
RDA staff, ensuring that all OSHA/Infection
Control Standards are met. I also am respon-
sible for supplies, training, and anything else
needed in the back office to make sure it runs smoothly so
we can provide patients with the best care.”
Jennifer is no stranger to hard work. She confides, “I have
worked since I was 14 years old in numerous fields and posi-
tions, but this is the first place that truly cares about their
employees’ well-being, thoughts and opinions. I enjoy the
family-like atmosphere, teamwork and overall values prac-
ticed throughout the clinic. I am very proud and lucky to be
employed at IHC.“
The Dental team exhibits a high level
of professionalism, with providers who
genuinely care about their patients
and our Native community.

Seventy Pounds of Sweet Treats for Our Troops

Last fall, U.S. troops in Afghanistan received a slightly late but very welcomed
Halloween treat, thanks to the generosity of our Dental Department patients.
IHC’s portion of the treasure trove consisted of 70 pounds of candy, sent, along
with hygiene products, via Del Mar dentist Curtis Chan. Dr. Chan has participated
in the Operation Gratitude program for 11 years.
According to IHC’s Dental Referral Coordinator, Liz Doyle, “We were eager to
partner with Dr. Chan in 2019. The Candy Buy Back is a win-win way to collect
treats for the troops while offering our patients a healthy alternative to eating
all the candy. In exchange, we gave gift cards, which many people used to get a
jump on their holiday shopping.”
The very first contributor, pictured here on the left, was Sandra Burton, who
donated 16 pounds of treats for our troops. Sweet!

8 Spring 2020
 Dr. Dan’s Corner
Make 2020 a HA-HA-HAppy Year
We’ve all heard the old saying that laughter is the best health level, laughter low-
medicine. In fact, renowned wellness guru Deepak Chopra ers anxiety, improves mood,
believes, “The healthiest response to life is laughter.” combats depression and of Chief Medical Officer Dan Calac, MD
When you find yourself in a challenging or tense situation, course adds joy and fun to
a good laugh can be a great release; it makes you feel calmer, one’s life.
more relaxed and more positive. Researchers have discovered
other restorative qualities of laughter, which by the way, is LOL – It’s Good for You!
contagious. Perhaps that is why many people say that one of Here’s an additional benefit that fits right into many peo-
the most desirable qualities they seek in a mate is a sense of ple’s New Year’s Resolutions: Laughter can help you lose
humor. weight. That’s right: laughing for 10 to 15 minutes burns
Laughter has been scientifically shown to benefit physi- about 40 calories, so if you laugh a lot every day, all those
cal health. It relaxes muscles, lowers stress hormones, giggles and guffaws could add up to three or four pounds
boosts immunity and decreases sense of pain. On a mental shed over the year.

“Dr. Dan’s Corner” discusses common health issues and answers your questions regarding specific topics
and general overall health and well-being. If you have a question you would like Dr. Dan to address,
please email blogan@indianhealth.com

The Centers for Disease Control & Prevention is closely monitoring the Coronavirus.
Updates are provided at www.cdc.gov/. If you have questions or concerns,
please contact IHC’s Medical Department.

Dr. Pace Offers Orthopedic Care
IHC is honored to have a phy-
sician of Dr. Robert Pace’s cali-
ber on our staff. Dr. Pace of-
fers monthly orthopedic clin-
ics at Rincon; typically on the
final Friday of the month from
9am-Noon.
After earning his MD from
George Washington University,
Dr. Pace completed his residen-
cy at Los Angeles Orthopedic
Dr. Robert Pace
Hospital, then practiced as an
Orthopedic Surgeon in Fallbrook and Murrieta from 1977 un-
til his retirement in April 2019. He served as Chief of Staff
at Fallbrook Hospital and is on the Temecula Valley Hospital
governing board. He also is board president of the Foundation
for Senior Care in Fallbrook, where he has lived since 1977.
Patients visiting Dr. Robert Pace at IHC can be assured of
enjoying the very best orthopedic care!
WHAT’S SHAKING?
A NEW EARTHQUAKE APP!
The State of California has debuted a free MyShake
app. When downloaded to your smartphone at https://
myshake.berkeley.edu/, the app will provide early
warnings of earthquakes across the state. Even if you do
not download the app, earthquake authorities will issue
early warnings by text, but these alerts go out only to
people in places of a certain intensity shaking level as
opposed to statewide.
The County of San Diego is also doing its part to
keep you safe. The https://www.readysandiego.org/
content/oesready/en-us/SDEmergencyApp.html app
offers disaster preparedness information plus tips on
creating a customized plan and emergency supplies kit.
In event of a disaster, the app will inform you of emer-
gency updates and shelter locations.
With California fire season now a year-round threat
and the unpredictability of earthquakes, we encourage
you to plan and prepare now so you and your family will
be ready to respond.

Spring 2020 9
 2020 | CLINIC SCHEDULES

RED CROSS BLOOD DRIVES

Periodically, 9am-3pm. Appointments are not necessary. Call ext. 5377.

DIABETES MANAGEMENT CLINICS

Multidisciplinary approach to managing diabetes. Patients meet with their physician, Registered Dietician and Physical
Activity Specialist in one appointment. Clinics at Rincon and Santa Ysabel at various days/times. Call ext. 5377.

DIABETES 101
SDPI-funded intro/refresher for patients with diabetes and those who wish to learn more about diabetes. 2nd Tuesday,
10am-12:30pm, 3rd Wednesday, 4-5:30pm, Public Health Programs Kitchen; 1st Monday, 2-3:30pm, Santa Ysabel.
Call ext. 5455 to reserve your seat.

EYE CLINICS
Wednesdays, 8:30am-12:30pm in Medical North. Call ext. 5231 or 5265 to schedule an appointment.

MAMMOGRAM CLINICS
1st Friday of the month, 8:15am-12:30pm, in Medical. Call ext. 5231 or 5265 to schedule an appointment.

OB CLINICS
Thursdays, 8am -10:30am, in Medical. Call ext. 5231 or 5265 to schedule an appointment.

CHILD CAR SEAT SAFETY CLASSES

Classes at Rincon and Santa Ysabel demonstrate proper usage of a safety seat. Call ext. 5356.

WELL CHILD CLINICS

Five monthly clinics with Providers for children ages newborn to 17 years old to get annual physical and scheduled
immunizations. 1st and 4th Wednesdays, 1:00-4:00 pm; 2nd, 3rd, 4th Fridays, 1:00-4:00 pm. in Medical. Call ext.
5231 or 5265 to schedule an appointment.

ACUPUNCTURE CLINICS
Mondays and Thursdays, 9:00-3:30 in Medical North. Call ext. 5231 or 5265 to schedule an appointment.

CHIROPRACTIC CLINICS
Tuesdays, 1:00-5:00 pm and Thursdays, 1:00-4:30 pm. Call ext. 5231 or 5265 to schedule an appointment.

ORTHOPEDIC CLINICS
Last Friday of the month, 9am-Noon (day/time subject to change) in Medical. Call ext. 5231 or 5265 to schedule an
appointment.

PODIATRY CLINICS
Tuesdays, 8:00am-5:30 pm, in Medical. First Monday, even months, Santa Ysabel. Call ext. 5231 or 5265.

FITNESS FUN
Tone Zone, Mondays and Wednesdays, 8-9 am, PHP Library. Band Jam, Mondays, 4-5 pm, Rincon Multipurpose Room.
Tai Chi, Tuesdays, 9-10 am, and Thursdays, 4-5 pm, Rincon Multipurpose Room. Yoga Sculpt, Tuesdays, 4-5 pm, Rincon
Multipurpose Room. Yoga for Pain Management, Fridays, Noon-1 pm, Rincon Multipurpose Room.

10 Spring 2020
WELCOME TO THE IHC NEIGHBORHOOD

Please join us in extending a warm welcome

to these newly hired employees.

Michael Bird Tom Hutchins Maria Villegas

Director, Public Health Programs Facilities Manager, Operations Social Services Navigator,
Tribal Family Services

Janai Reyes Allison Rios Joshua De Sagun

Social Services Navigator, Registered Dental Assistant Family Nurse Practitioner
Tribal Family Services (Student, University of Southern California)

Kisily Sanchez Emma Soto Camilla Devers

Lusieno Torte Tatiana Murillo Alfaro Scarlett Cueva
Mya Sanisya Charlotte Long Isabella Cueva
Colton Sanisya Kuchuut Garcia Majel Cheyanne
Lucky Mazzetti Dylan Peralta Hailee Parada
Roselynn Albright Joselynn Dixon
Ashwet Magee Eli Parada
Awesome!
Spring 2020 11
 INDIAN HEALTH COUNCIL, INC.
www.indianhealth.com
Email: info@indianhealth.com OFF-HOUR EMERGENCIES
Phone: (760) 749-1410 Palomar Hospital: (442) 281-5000
Fax: (760) 749-1564 Temecula Hospital: (951) 331-2200
24/7 Comment/Suggestion Line: Ext. 5307 Children’s Hospital: (760) 739-1543
Patient Transportation Medical Department:
Ext. 5269
After Hours Care: (760) 749-1410, Option 1
INDIAN HEALTH COUNCIL, INC SCHEDULE
Medical Department
M–F 8:00–6:30 Health Promotion Services
Providers | Nurses M-F 8:00-6:30 Department
Lab M–F 8:00–4:30 M–F 8:00–6:30
(open 12:00–1:00 drug testing only) Prevention and Early Intervention
X-ray M–F 8:00–6:30 Program, Peace Between Partners,
Strategies for Preventing Underage
Specialty Clinics (see page 10) Drinking, REZolution, TANF Case Aide
Dental Department SANTA YSABEL SCHEDULE
M–F 8:00–6:30
Specialty Hours, 8:00–4:30 Medical Department
M, W 8:00–4:30 Fri 8:00–4:30
Pharmacy Department First appointment 9:00 a.m.
M–F 8:30–6:30 Podiatry, First Monday, even months,
9:00-3:30
BOARD MEMBERS EXECUTIVE BOARD

Mesa Grande

Mesa Grande
Inaja Cosmit

Inaja Cosmit
Santa Ysabel

Santa Ysabel
Los Coyotes
Los Coyotes

San Pasqual
San Pasqual
Public Health Programs Department

Orvin Hanson, Interim Chief Executive Officer

La Jolla

La Jolla

Rincon
Rincon
Pauma
Pauma
M–F 8:00–4:30 Dental Department

Pala

Pala
Public Health Nursing, Home Health W 8:00–4:30
Aides, Env. Tech, Nutritionist.
FORWARDING SERVICE REQUESTED

First appointment 9:00 a.m.

MEMBERS
Valley Center, CA 92082
Empowering Native Wellness

Carolyn Stalcup, Vice Chairwoman

Theda Molina, Member-at-Large

Tribal Family Services Department Pharmacy Department

Mercedes Astorga, Secretary

50100 Golsh Road

Robert Smith, Chairman

M–F 8:00–4:30 M, W 10:00–4:00

Leia Arviso, Treasurer

Vanessa Christman
F 10:00–12:00

Reuben Rodriguez
Andrew Campbell

Tony Gumataotao

Cristina Williams

Spring 2020
Alfonso Kolb Sr.
Linda Bojorquez

Tishmall Turner
Patricia Ockert
Mary L. Arviso

Dorothy Willis
Behavioral Health Department

LeeAnn Hayes

Patricia Dixon
M–F 8:00–6:30
Mental Health, Counseling, Domestic
Violence, Substance Abuse, ROAM

12