Posts in Community Outreach
Safe Halloween 2021

Aloha ‘Ohana - here are a few safe practices for Halloween 2021 from our friends at the Hawai’i Department of Health. 

  • Being outdoors is safer than indoors.

  • Trick-or-treat ins small groups outdoors or enjoy outdoor activities.

  • Avoid crowded indoor parties.

Have fun out there!

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#bewell
#staywell
#covidpau
#stopthespread

What We Can Learn From Hawaii’s Past Pandemics

Aloha ‘Ohana! Here is an important follow-up to yesterday’s post. Vaccine mandates did just happen on the mainland. The Hawaii monarchy was ahead of its time when it came to addressing public health.

Our staff wanted to share a wonderful article published by Honolulu Civil Beat late last year that highlighted how the Hawaiian Monarchy was ahead of its time when it came to addressing public health.

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What We Can Learn From Hawaii’s Past Pandemics

On Jan. 20, 1881, a large crowd gathered in Honolulu Harbor to bid farewell to King David Kalakaua, who was leaving for a yearlong diplomacy tour around the world.

Less than a week after he left, in part to work on labor negotiations with other countries, a foreign ship entered Oahu’s bustling harbor carrying Chinese laborers sick with smallpox — a disease that 30 years prior had killed 10% of the Native Hawaiian population.

Before his departure, Kalakaua had appointed his sister, Princess Lili‘uokalani, to govern in his place. It was a huge responsibility for any ruler – let alone an acting ruler who had no way to communicate with the king.

The decisions Lili‘uokalani made to keep people safe – and the pushback she received from angry citizens and frustrated business owners who didn’t want to quarantine or close down business activity – should sound familiar to people living through the coronavirus pandemic today.

Hawaii’s long history of dealing with foreign diseases made the Hawaiian monarchy ahead of its time when it came to addressing health issues. And Hanohano is not the only teacher looking to the past for lessons on how to get through the coronavirus pandemic of 2020.

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View the entire article on Honolulu Civil Beat by clicking on the link below:

https://www.civilbeat.org/.../what-we-can-learn-from.../

#bewell

#staywell

History of Vaccine Mandates

Aloha ‘Ohana - did know that vaccine mandates are nothing new in the U.S.? Despite what you might have heard, vaccine mandates are not new - they’re not even new to this century! Vaccine mandates have been around in this country since 1777.

Flip through the slides below to take a walk through the history of vaccine mandates in the United States. If you haven’t already, please call our staff at (8089) 293-9231 to make your vaccination appointment today. 

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Be SMART

Aloha ‘Ohana - we’re starting the week strong here at KHC. Our staff all believe in achieving our personal and health goals by following these simple steps. They’re easy to keep in mind as you start your week.

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The Power of Goal Setting & How You Empower It

Setting goals the right way

If you want to set your goals, ensure that you do not only set them using the SMART method but that you also create a massive action aligned with your goals.

Specific

Make sure your goal is as specific as possible

Measurable

Make sure your goals are measurable so you can track your progress.

Attainable

Make sure your goals are attainable and realistic.

Relevant

Make sure your goal is relevant to yourself.

Time-Bound

Make sure your goal is time-bound. Set a deadline and make a plan following it to achieve your goal.

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Have a wonderful week. Remember, if you haven’t already please call our staff at (808) 293-9231 to schedule your COVID-19 vaccination or booster shot if you qualify. Mahalo!

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#bewell

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New Staff!

Aloha ‘Ohana - we are very excited to welcome Dr. Darren Day to the Ko’olauloa Health Care staff.

Dr. Day is a board-qualified podiatrist/foot & ankle surgeon at the Academy Foot Center of Hawaii. Dr. Day's comprehensive training includes diagnosis and treatment of all disorders in the lower extremity. His professional interests include trauma, advanced foot and ankle reconstruction, podiatric orthopedics, sports medicine, diabetic care, and bunion correction.

Dr. Day believes in treating his patients like family, taking the time necessary to understand their needs. His patient-focused care allows him to work with his patients to achieve their specific goals while employing an evidence-based, yet individualized approach.

Born and raised on the North Shore of Oahu, Dr. Day graduated from Kahuku High School and earned his Bachelor's Degree in Biology at Brigham Young University-Hawaii. He then pursued a Medical degree at Kent State University College of Podiatric Medicine. Following graduation, he completed a 3-year podiatric medical and surgical residency at the Cleveland Clinic Foundation/Mercy Regional Health Medical Center in Cleveland Ohio, where he trained under several leaders in the field of podiatric surgery and served as chief resident during his last year.

Dr. Day is passionate about contributing to the healing of his patients and is thrilled to be back home where he can serve the people of Hawaii. Outside of work, Dr. Day enjoys spending time with his wife and four children and loves being outdoors - especially when he’s surfing, hiking, or running.
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#bewell
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Healthy Halloween

Aloha ‘Ohana - Halloween is right around the corner. Here are 6 healthy candy options from our staff you may want to keep in mind.

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The 6 Healthiest Candy Options

1. UnReal Milk Chocolate Gems
“I’m really impressed with these,” says our staff. “The candy contains no artificial flavor or color, and the coloring comes from natural sources, like hibiscus and turmeric.” Because these contain a fair amount of sugar, though, you’ll want to stick with the mini 0.42-ounce (oz) bags, which are available on Amazon and make the perfect single serving.

What’s Inside 140 calories per oz, 7g fat, 4.5g saturated fat, 18g carbohydrate, 15g sugar, 3g protein

2. Endangered Species Dark Chocolate Bites
These chocolates are low on the sugar scale, and two squares contain 3 grams (g) of fiber, too. That’s because the high level of cocoa (88 percent) means the the sugar content is lower. What’s more: “Research shows regularly eating a small amount of dark chocolate may help heart health by lowering risk of heart disease and stroke,” says our nutritional staff. But again, be sure to enjoy in moderation, as these treats also contain saturated fat, which can instead be harmful to your heart if eaten in excess, according to the American Heart Association. The organization recommends taking in no more than 13 g of saturated fat per day.

What’s Inside 120 calories for two pieces, 9g fat, 6g saturated fat, 8g carbohydrate, 2g sugar, 2g protein

3. Peanut M&M's
It’s got peanuts, which means you’ll get protein and fiber, which help prevent blood sugar spikes and overindulging, says our staff.

What’s Inside 90 calories per "fun-size" pack, 5g fat, 2g saturated fat, 10.5g carbohydrate, 9g sugar, 1.5g protein

4. Snickers
Surprised? Although Snickers is relatively higher in calories than other candy, Gorin recommends a "fun-size" bar because it’s more likely to leave you satisfied, thanks to its filling protein. “It also has less sugar than some other candies that are almost entirely pure sugar”.

What’s Inside 80 calories per "fun-size" bar, 3.5g fat, 1.5g saturated fat, 11g carbohydrate, 9g sugar, 1g protein

5. Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups
The satisfying combo of protein and (a small amount of) fiber makes this another good pick, says our nutritional staff. Plus, around the holidays, it’s easy to find single cups (whereas they’re usually packaged as a double).

What’s Inside 110 calories per PB cup, 6.5g fat, 2g saturated fat, 12g carbohydrate, 11g sugar, 2.5g protein

6. Blow Pop
For the non–chocolate lovers, a Blow Pop can be a practical pick. “It has less sugar than many of the other candies out there, and because of the gum center, you can enjoy it for longer.”

What’s Inside 70 calories per pop, 0g fat, 0g saturated fat, 17g carbohydrate, 13g sugar, 0g protein

CDC

Aloha ‘Ohana - here is some encouraging news from the CDC. 

As of October 18, 2021, 219 million people, or about 66.0% of the U.S. population, have received at least one dose of a #COVID19 vaccine. Of those, 189.3 million, or about 57% of the U.S. population, are fully vaccinated.

Everyone ages 12 and older is eligible to get a free COVID-19 vaccine. If you’re not fully vaccinated, call our helpful staff at (808) 293-9231to make your vaccination appointment today. We can beat this!

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#bewell

#staywell

#stopthespread

World Mental Health Day
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Aloha ‘Ohana - today we’re celebrating World Mental Health Day.

World Mental Health Day is an international day for global mental health education, awareness, and advocacy against social stigma. It was first celebrated in 1992 at the initiative of the World Federation for Mental Health, a global mental health organization with members and contacts in more than 150 countries.

If you need someone to speak to you, our excellent staff in our Behavioral Health department are always there for you. Call (808) 293-9231 to speak to our staff and set up an appointment, we would love to hear from you.

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#bewell

#staywell

#weseeyou

Breast Cancer Awareness Month
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Happy Aloha Friday ‘Ohana!

Did you know that October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month? Breast Cancer Awareness Month is an annual campaign to raise awareness about the impact of breast cancer.

The past 20 months have posed a challenge to just about everything, and breast cancer prevention has been no exception.

For the past 30 years, the National Breast Cancer Foundation (NBCF) has supported women by helping them get access to the education, screening, and support they need.

If you are interested in learning more about NBCF, click on the link below to visit the foundation’s helpful website.

https://www.nationalbreastcancer.org/breast-cancer-awareness-month

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#bewell
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National Drug Take-Back Day
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Aloha ‘Ohana?

FYI: Mark your calendars - October 23rd is National Prescription Drug Take-Back Day.

National Prescription Drug Take Back Day is a safe, convenient, and responsible way to dispose of unused or expired prescription drugs at locations in communities throughout the country.

What Should You Do With Your Unused Meds?

Most people who misuse prescription drugs get them from family, friends, and acquaintances.

You can make a difference by keeping track of the medicine you have, by rethinking where and how you keep your medications in your home, and by safely disposing of any unused medications.

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Turn in your unused or expired medication for sale, anonymous disposal at the following locations on Oahu.

Saturday, October 23, 2021 10:00am ~ 2:00pm

  • Fire Station 18 Kailua - parking lot (211 Kuulei Road, Kailua, HI) Hawaii State Capitol - Beretania Street drive-thru (415 S. Beretania Street, Honolulu, HI)

  • Kahala Mall - parking lot near the corner of Kialuea & Waialae Ave (4122 Waialae Ave, Honolulu, HI)

  • Pear City Police Station - parking lot (1100 Waimano Home Rd., Pearl City, HI)

For more information please visit

takebackday.dea.gov

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#bewell

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Vaccines are Crucial
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Aloha ‘Ohana!

A lot of things are getting postponed this year, but your child’s vaccinations shouldn’t be one of them. Some people are avoiding the doctor’s office for everything but the essentials. Statistics show immunizations have declined about 40% in spring 2020. That’s not a good thing – here’s why. Pediatricians are concerned this delay could trigger an outbreak of other highly contagious diseases with potentially worse complications than COVID-19 for children, like measles or whooping cough.

It’s easy to take immunizations for granted because we don’t hear about many serious outbreaks anymore. However, diseases like measles haven’t been eradicated. They are just kept at bay as long as children stay vaccinated.

Staying on schedule protects everyone. When families get behind schedule, it means that a child doesn’t have immunity until they get caught up. We know that immunizations help to protect the health of not only your child but everyone around them as well – especially those who are immune-compromised and vulnerable. Vaccines are also required for school, daycare, and sports participation.

Yes, it’s safe to come to Ko’olauloa Health Center.

Ko’olauloa Health Center is committed to keeping you safe while providing care. Here’s what you can expect:

  • Extra safety measures to reduce the spread of COVID-19

  • Rigorous cleaning and disinfecting protocols

  • Reduction in the number of visitors

  • Masks required upon entry

Call (808) 293-9231 to set up your appointment today.

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#bewell

#staywell

#StopTheSpread

Relax
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Aloha ‘Ohana! Here is your weekend quote from our staff.

“There is virtue in work and there is virtue in rest. Use both and overlook neither.”

~ Alan Cohen

Have a great Aloha Sunday. We’re looking forward to the coming week!

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#bewell

#staywell

Vaccines Work!
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Aloha ‘Ohana! Did you know that vaccines protect you against more than 20 diseases? Yes, they do! Here they are:

  • COVID-19

  • Cervical Cancer

  • Cholera

  • Diphtheria

  • Ebola

  • Hepatitis B

  • Influenza

  • Japanese Encephalitis

  • Measles

  • Meningitis

  • Mumps

  • Pertussis

  • Pneumonia

  • Polio

  • Rabies

  • Rotavirus

  • Rubella

  • Tetanus

  • Typhoid

  • Varicella

  • Yellow Fever

Talk to your health care provider to ensure your vaccinations are up-to-date for you and your family. Call (808) 293-9231 to get your COVID-19 vaccination. We would be very happy to help you. Mahalo!

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#bewell

#staywell

#stopthespread

#VaccinesWork

Family Guy

Aloha ‘Ohana! 

Here is a fun video. Watch Brian and Stewie from ‘Family Guy’ explain the COVID vaccine. Have a great Aloha Thursday and be safe out there. 

Call (808) 293-9231 to schedule your appointment with our helpful staff if you haven’t gotten your vaccine yet. Mahalo!

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#stopthespread

#bewell

#staywell

Passion & Purpose
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Aloha ‘Ohana - here’s some food for thought this beautiful Wednesday.

Why are passion and purpose BOTH essential to reaching your goals?

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Purpose: helps you determine a course of action. Passion: is what drives you.

Purpose sets direction while passion keeps you going when you hit the “dip”. You will need to draw upon your passion to stay committed, not give up, not get distracted, and climb the hill towards your goal.

Passion without purpose is going nowhere fast. “Passion without purpose is like a shot without a target.” - Ifeanyi Enoch.

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Purpose steers, passion propels.

Here at Ko’olauloa, our purpose is to do everything in our power to ensure that all families in our community have access to the quality, affordable health care they deserve. Our passion is to continue to do this every day, even in the face of difficult circumstances, like the times we all currently face.

Mahalo to all of our staff and our community for sharing the same purpose and passion.

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#bewell

#staywell