New Year’s Day is the perfect time to make resolutions for how to be “better” in the upcoming year. A lot of people vow to be healthier in the New Year. Pasadena Now spoke with Steven Abramson, Director of Development and Marketing at ChapCare, about how you can keep your vow to get healthy.
Community Health Alliance of Pasadena (ChapCare) was established in 1995 to establish primary care health services for the low-income, uninsured residents in Pasadena. ChapCare launched medical services in 1998 and dental services in 2001. ChapCare now operates 4 health centers in Pasadena, 1 health center in Monrovia, and 2 health centers in El Monte/South El Monte. The organization serves over 15,000 unduplicated patients per year with medical, dental, and behavioral services offered.
“Having low or no-cost health insurance is the first step on the path to better health,” said Mr. Abramson. “Health insurance enrollment has been a very important aspect of our work; especially, with the rollout of the Affordable Care Act. ChapCare is a Covered California Navigator Grantee, and can help assist community members find a health insurance plan that is right for them.”
He added that understanding how your insurance works is key to getting the most out of your benefits. He suggests getting a regular checkup at least once per year. If you are looking to up your exercise game this year try wearing a pedometer. Most people are competitive, even with themselves, and getting in as many steps as possible can jump start a health kick.
“I think it’s always about prevention,” added Mr. Abramson. This includes how you eat. Eat two servings of fish a week and try to get your vitamins from your food instead of a pill. Drink water. Drinking 6-8 glasses a day is vital to a healthy lifestyle.
Talk to your doctor about preventative medicines especially as you get older. You may need to start a regimen of aspirin for example. As always, get enough sleep and remember to check with a doctor before starting a new exercise program.
For more information on your health insurance enrollment and health care options, please call ChapCare at (626) 398-6300 or visit their website at www.chapcare.org.
