Cervical cancer is the fourth most common cancer in women worldwide. Yet, it's also one of the most preventable cancers. This January, let’s raise awareness about this preventable disease and encourage women to get screened.

Cervical cancer is caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV). While most HPV infections go away on their own, some strains can lead to cervical cancer.

Although it's best to talk to your primary care provider about which options are best for you, there are two main ways to prevent cervical cancer: vaccination and screening. The HPV vaccine is recommended for girls and boys aged 11-12, but it can be given to adults as well. The vaccine is highly effective at preventing HPV infection, which can lead to cervical cancer.

Screening for cervical cancer is also important. Women aged 21-29 should get a Pap test every three years. Women aged 30-65 should get a Pap test and an HPV test every five years. Women over 65 who have had regular screenings and no abnormal results in the past 10 years can stop getting screened.

How can you get involved?

• Get vaccinated: If you're eligible, talk to your primary care provider (PCP) about getting the HPV vaccine. Even if IHCWV isn’t your medical home, we offer the HPV vaccine at all our locations.
• Schedule your screenings: Follow your PCP’s recommendations for Pap and HPV tests. IHCWV also offers screenings. Make an appointment today. Uninsured or underinsured? We participate in the Breast & Cervical Cancer Screening Program--a comprehensive public health program that helps uninsured or underinsured women gain access to breast and cervical cancer screening services. Learn more here.
• Spread awareness: Speak up and educate others about cervical cancer prevention.

Together, we can make a difference!

The Marketplace Open Enrollment ends January 15.

If you don’t have health insurance through a job, Medicare, Medicaid, the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP), or another source that provides qualifying health coverage, you can find coverage through the Marketplace. 

Depending on your expected household income for the year, you may qualify for:

• Lower costs for your Marketplace plan
• Coverage through Medicaid or CHIP (Your child(ren) may qualify for CHIP even if you don’t qualify for Medicaid)

❓NEED HELP with enrollment❓
👇👇👇👇👇👇
​IHCWV has Certified Application Counselors (CACs) on staff to provide information and help facilitate enrollment in health insurance, including Medicaid and Medicare. Call 304-643-4005 to set up an appointment with one of our CACs. The annual Cover WV Day will be on January 7.

🧥🧤🧣 Integrated Health Centers of West Virginia is proud to once again support Lite Rock 93R & The Classic Rock Station WXCR’s promotion, Coats for Kids. 🧣🧤🧥

For 20 years, Coats for Kids has provided winter apparel to children in need. We are asking you to join us in this worthy cause by donating new or used coats, gloves, scarves, etc., to any of the following IHCWV locations: 
Harrisville Campus - 135 S Penn Ave. Harrisville
West Union Campus - 190 Marie St. West Union
Doddridge School Campus - 151 Doddridge School Rd. West Union
Parkersburg South Campus - 1513 Blizzard Dr. Parkersburg

All donations are greatly appreciated, and any used items will be cleaned. Coats for Kids will conclude in January.

National Rural Health Day is a special day dedicated to recognizing the vital role of rural health centers in providing essential healthcare services to our communities. At Integrated Health Centers of West Virginia, we understand the unique challenges rural residents face, and we are committed to delivering quality, compassionate care to everyone, regardless of their location.

What Makes Rural Healthcare Special?
Rural healthcare is more than just providing medical services. It's about building solid relationships with our patients, understanding their specific needs, and addressing the social determinants of health that impact their well-being. Here are a few things that set rural healthcare apart:

• Community-Centered Care: We prioritize the health of our entire community, working closely with local schools, organizations, and decision-makers to address health disparities and promote wellness.
• Diverse Services: Our health centers offer a wide range of services, including primary care, dental care, behavioral health services, telehealth, and more, all under one roof.
• Accessibility: We strive to make healthcare accessible to everyone, regardless of their insurance status or ability to pay. Our Sliding Fee Scale ensures that financial barriers don't prevent patients from receiving the care they need.
• Cultural Sensitivity: We understand the importance of cultural competence and tailor our services to meet the unique needs of our community's diverse populations.

How You Can Support Rural Health
There are many ways to support rural health and the dedicated healthcare providers who serve our communities:

• Spread the Word: Share information about National Rural Health Day and the importance of rural health centers on social media.
• Advocate for Rural Health: Contact your elected officials to express your support for policies that strengthen rural healthcare.
• Donate to Your Local Health Center: Your donation can help fund essential programs and services that improve the health of your community.

On this National Rural Health Day, we sincerely thank our patients, staff, and community partners for their continued support. Together, we are building a healthier future for rural America.

Nurse Practitioner Week recognizes the invaluable contributions of Nurse Practitioners (NPs) to the healthcare field. These highly skilled and dedicated professionals are crucial in providing quality, accessible, and patient-centered care.

What is a Nurse Practitioner?
Nurse Practitioners are advanced practice registered nurses who have completed specialized education and clinical training. They are qualified to diagnose illnesses, order and interpret tests, prescribe medications, and provide a wide range of healthcare services.

Why are Nurse Practitioners Important?
NPs are essential to our healthcare system for several reasons:

• Improved Access to Care: NPs often work in underserved areas, expanding access to primary and specialty care.
• Enhanced Patient Outcomes: Studies have shown that patients cared for by NPs experience better health outcomes, including lower mortality rates and fewer hospitalizations.
• Cost-Effective Care: NPs can provide high-quality care at a lower cost, making healthcare more affordable for patients.
• Patient-Centered Approach: NPs prioritize patient-centered care, building strong relationships with their patients and addressing their individual needs.

During NP week, we recognize and appreciate the incredible work of our NPs. These skilled healthcare providers play a vital role at IHCWV, delivering quality care and improving patient outcomes. Thank you for your dedication, compassion, and expertise. 

National Radiology Technologist Week is an annual event dedicated to recognizing the invaluable contributions of radiology technologists to the field of healthcare. These skilled professionals play a vital role in diagnosing and treating various medical conditions by using advanced imaging techniques.

What do radiology technologists do?
Radiology technologists are responsible for operating complex medical imaging equipment such as X-ray machines, CT scanners, MRI machines, and ultrasound machines. They work closely with radiologists to produce high-quality images that help physicians make accurate diagnoses.

What are key responsibilities of a radiology technologist?

• Patient Preparation: Explaining procedures, positioning patients, and administering contrast agents as needed.
• Image Acquisition: Operating imaging equipment to capture clear and detailed images.
• Quality Assurance: Ensuring the quality of images and equipment.
• Patient Care: Providing comfort and reassurance to patients during procedures.

Why are radiology technologists important?
Radiology technologists are essential to modern healthcare. Their expertise allows for early detection and diagnosis of diseases, leading to timely and effective treatment. By providing accurate and timely imaging results, they contribute to improved patient outcomes.

Does IHCWV offer X-ray services?
YES! Located in Harrisville, Jill Williams, offers general digital X-ray imaging to the surrounding communities. The X-ray images are sent to Radiology, Inc in Huntington, WV for thorough review, and a comprehensive report is promptly provided to the ordering provider. IHCWV extends these services to providers outside their facility, requiring patients to present a current X-ray order and insurance coverage. In addition, IHCWV offers a sliding scale for underinsured or uninsured patients, providing discounted X-ray prices. For further information, please reach out to the office at 304-643-4005.

Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker Harvey L. West joins Integrated Health Centers of West Virginia (IHCWV), providing therapy sessions to individuals, couples, and families in person at IHCWV West Union Campus and via virtual sessions. Faith-based sessions are available upon request.

Harvey earned his Bachelor of Arts in Bible and Religion from Ohio Valley College in 1992. Later, he furthered his education by receiving his master’s degree in social work from WVU of Charleston in 2002.

Upon the completion of his master’s degree, he began his professional career working as a therapist at a community crisis stabilization unit for children, adolescents, and adults. He remained in this role for the next four years before moving into private practice. Here, he provided mental health services to individuals, couples, and families aged 6 and above. He proceeded from private practice to working in an inpatient hospital in the behavioral health unit for ages 18 and above. Harvey then returned to working for private facilities providing therapy services. He then began offering treatment services at a federally qualified health center, where he remained for a year and a half, working with individuals, couples, and families. He joined IHCWV as a behavioral health therapist in late 2024. 

Harvey will be working with individuals, couples, and families, mainly adults aged 18 and above, as well as children and adolescents, on a limited basis. He works with his patients to cope with and manage all sorts of mental health disorders, anger management, and behavior problems, and helping couples and families. He also encourages patients who are interested in looking into a good spiritual relationship if they don’t already have one, “because God is the Great Physician.” 

To learn more about Harvey, visit his biography. To schedule an appointment, call 304-643-4005. IHCWV accepts ALL insurance plans and offers the Sliding Fee Program to qualifying uninsured and underinsured patients. 

Breast cancer is a serious health issue that affects millions of women worldwide. To raise awareness and encourage early detection, October has been designated as Breast Cancer Awareness Month. This annual event provides an opportunity to educate ourselves about the disease, its risk factors, prevention strategies, and the importance of regular screenings. In recognition of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, IHCWV will be giving away two gift baskets. Any female over 18 who visits us during October will automatically be entered to win the $25 basket. A mammogram must be ordered to be entered for a chance to win the $50 basket.

What is Breast Cancer?
Breast cancer occurs when cells in the breast tissue grow abnormally and divide uncontrollably. These abnormal cells can form a tumor, which may be benign (non-cancerous) or malignant (cancerous). If the tumor is malignant, it can invade surrounding tissues or spread to other parts of the body.

Risk Factors for Breast Cancer
While anyone can develop breast cancer, certain factors may increase your risk. These include:

• Age: The risk of breast cancer increases with age, particularly after the age of 50.
• Genetics: Having a family history of breast cancer, especially in first-degree relatives, can increase your risk.
• Hormone-related factors: Women who have gone through early puberty, started menopause later, or used hormone therapy for menopause may have a higher risk.
• Lifestyle factors: Obesity, excessive alcohol consumption, and lack of physical activity can also contribute to the risk of breast cancer.

Early Detection and Prevention
Early detection is key to increasing the chances of successful treatment for breast cancer. Regular screenings, such as mammograms, can help identify the disease in its early stages. It's important to consult with your healthcare provider to determine the appropriate screening schedule for you. 

In addition to screenings, there are steps you can take to reduce your risk of breast cancer:

• Maintain a healthy weight: Being overweight or obese can increase your risk.
• Engage in regular physical activity: Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise per week.
• Limit alcohol consumption: Excessive alcohol intake can increase your risk.
• Eat a healthy diet: A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can be beneficial.
• Know your family history: Discuss your family's history of breast cancer with your healthcare provider.

Supporting Breast Cancer Awareness
There are many ways to support breast cancer awareness and help those affected by the disease. This can include:

• Donating to breast cancer organizations
• Participating in fundraising events
• Educating others about breast cancer
• Offering emotional support to friends and family members

By raising awareness and taking proactive steps, we can make a significant impact in the fight against breast cancer. Let's work together to promote early detection, support those affected, and strive for a future free from this disease.

​October 10 marks World Mental Health Day, a global event dedicated to raising awareness about mental health issues and advocating for better care for those affected. It's a day to challenge stigma, promote understanding, and encourage individuals to prioritize their mental well-being.

Why is World Mental Health Day Important?
Mental health is just as crucial as physical health. Yet, for far too long, it has been overlooked or stigmatized. World Mental Health Day aims to:

• Break down stigma: Challenge negative perceptions and stereotypes surrounding mental health.
• Promote understanding: Foster empathy and acceptance for those experiencing mental health conditions.
• Advocate for better care: Encourage governments and healthcare providers to prioritize mental health services.
• Inspire individuals to seek help: Let people know that it's okay to ask for support.

How Can You Get Involved?
There are many ways to participate in World Mental Health Day:

• Educate yourself: Learn about different mental health conditions and how to support someone who is struggling.
• Start a conversation: Talk openly about mental health with friends, family, and colleagues.
• Prioritize your own mental health: Take steps to improve your well-being, such as practicing mindfulness, getting enough sleep, and seeking professional help if needed.

Remember, you are not alone. If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health, know that there is help available. Reach out to a friend, family member, or mental health professional. IHCWV has a whole team of dedicated professionals ready to help. As a reminder, we offer the Sliding Fee Program to qualifying uninsured or underinsured individuals.  

Let's work together to create a world where mental health is valued and supported.
#Mentalhealthmatters #WorldMentalHealthDay