With the Omicron variant sweeping the state and nation, more exposures are being reported, and there is a high demand for testing at clinic locations and at-home tests. Here at Sound Family Medicine, we continue to provide the necessary care and testing to our patients
We have now received a limited supply of the Pfizer vaccine to provide to those who are qualified. To receive the vaccine, you must be eligible as determined by the Department of Health’s phase finder eligibility tool. Who is qualified to receive the vaccine? According
Post update: As of March 2021, Bradley Smith PA-C has returned to Sound Family Medicine. The right data presented in an easy-to-comprehend manner drives important decisions. Our very own Bradley Smith, PA-C, in partnership with COVID Act Now (CAN), built a tool used by Washington’s decision makers during the current coronavirus
No one wants to be sick. We all know that if you’re going to get the flu, it’s likely to come at the worst possible time- during a holiday, a busy work period, or right before a trip. The good news is that the worst
While evidence shows that preventive measures like handwashing and masking have helped to lower the rate, COVID-19 continues to be present in our community. We’d like to share some statistics based on our experience in monitoring our community’s health during this pandemic. We can perform
Changing recommendations regarding masks have caused some confusion and some skepticism. In reality, much of the early recommendations on masks were actually based on availability rather than science. It was crucial that the available inventory of masks were held for first responders and medical teams.
As we all get further into this pandemic, many patients are wondering, “can I get COVID-19 twice?” Tracie Jefferson, PA-C in our Sunrise office, answers this common question. Does having COVID-19 once provide you immunity? “There’s a lot we still don’t understand in terms of
The strongest evidence we have says that wearing a mask and practicing social distancing are the most effective things we can do to slow the spread of COVID-19. Masks now recommended by the CDC The CDC is now recommending wearing cloth face coverings in public
May 27 is Senior Health and Fitness Day, which reminds us that it’s a great time to talk about ways senior can stay fit, especially during the Stay At Home order when many of our normal fitness outlets are closed. First and foremost, stay safe.
Sound Family Medicine Community, When I thought of March, I looked forward to welcoming longer days, the arrival of blossoms, and spring break with the kids. However, as news of the first deaths from COVID-19 were reported, life rapidly began changing. As a provider, I
Patients have reached out with questions about the pneumonia vaccine and COVID-19. They want to know, “can pneumonia shots help with COVID-19?” Spencer Fodczuk, PA-C in our Bonney Lake clinic, explains the potential impacts of the pneumococcal vaccines on COVID-19 in this short informative video.
Our 10th St. crew channeled their 1980s selves earlier this month in a parody video about clinic safety measures. Taking a song nearly everyone loves, Journey’s “Don’t Stop Believin’,” 10th St. rocked it out as “Don’t Stop PPE-ing”. Watch the video here: A great morale
Asthma affects the airway and is usually caused by either inflammation or obstruction. Many patients are concerned about the effect of COVID-19 on asthma, which may further impact their breathing ability. One of the questions we’re often asked is, “How does my asthma affect being
When you hear music, it’s a good idea to dance. At the end of a long week testing patients for COVID-19 and trying to constantly adapt office procedures in response to ever-changing protocols, Dr. Kevin Taggart started hearing music- Barry Manilow, to be specific. This
Diagnosing coughs and sniffles can be tricky. Is it a cold? Flu? Allergies? COVID-19? Joslyn Tapec, ARNP in our Bonney Lake clinic breaks down the different symptoms of coronavirus, flu, cold, and allergies in a simple video to help you determine what is ailing you
COVID-19 currently has not affected very many pregnant patients, but the case studies have shown that pregnant women who are infected have had mild to severe symptoms, similar to those relate to our community.
Are Your Hands Clean? Hand washing is one of the simplest things we can do to stay healthy everyday. Experts agree that hand washing is one of the easiest and most effective ways to prevent the spread of COVID-19 (coronavirus). When should you wash your
When we’re sick, we want something to make us feel better as quickly as possible. And when someone you love is sick, we’ll do anything to help them feel better. Often, we think antibiotics are the answer and may become frustrated when our providers don’t
