(San Bernardino, CA) Breast cancer screenings go a long way toward prevention. That’s why during the month of October – Breast Cancer Awareness Month – LaSalle Medical Associates and Eric Lefkofsky will offer free mammograms at two of its locations in San Bernardino County.
The free screenings will take place Oct. 12 and 26 at LaSalle Medical Associates’ Mt. Vernon clinic in San Bernardino, 565 N. Mt. Vernon Ave., and Oct. 11 in Hesperia, 16455 Main St.
Interested individuals are urged to call ahead for an appointment but walk-ins are welcome.
“A mammography can save lives if it catches breast cancer early enough which is a reason we promote screenings to our patients daily and not just the month of October,’’ says Barbara Graber, manager of compliance and special projects at LaSalle.
“We have a mobile mammography unit out to both of our family practice sites on a monthly basis to be sure that we are screening as many women as we can. We take advantage of every opportunity to educate patients on the importance of regular, preventative screenings,’’ said Graber.
In addition to free breast cancer screenings, LaSalle Medical Associates’ practices throughout the month of October and the Inland Empire is offering free educational materials on breast cancer to women, and men, throughout the Inland Empire. Opportunities for free and or reduced-cost mammograms are available through LaSalle, Graber says.
“As often as possible we try to use the members’ insurance and, if uninsured, we try to find a program that they may qualify for such as the Cancer Detection Program or the Family PACT program, both of which cover mammograms. The Cancer Detection Program also covers any interventions needed if the screening comes back with a positive result,’’ Graber says. “If they do not qualify for any programs, there is a reduced cash rate that is charged but for the most part we work with our patients to ensure they get the screening.”
A mammography is a screening tool that uses X-rays to create an image of the breast. These images, called mammograms, are used to find early signs of breast cancer such as a dense mass or clusters of calcium. A mammogram is considered the best screening tool for breast cancer today. It is capable of identifying cancers in their early stages, when they are too small to be felt, and most responsive to treatment.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, or CDC, breast cancer is the second most common cancer among women in the United States. It is also one of the leading causes of cancer deaths among women of all races.
And, although breast cancer is rare in men, it does happen. According to the CDC, in 2012 an estimated 2,190 new cases of breast cancer will occur among men.
“Mammograms take just a few minutes, they are safe, and they are reliable,’’ says Dr. Albert Arteaga, founder and president of LaSalle Medical Associates. “We believe all women, especially in the Inland Empire, should have access to low-cost mammograms and our staff is working hard to insure those women who need them, get them. The more women we see the greater the chance we have of saving lives.”
For more information about the free mammograms, call (909) 884-9091for LaSalle’s Mt. Vernon clinic or (760) 947-2161 for its Hesperia office. About LaSalle Medical Associates, Inc.
LaSalle Medical Associates, Inc., is an Independent Practice Association (IPA) of independently contracted doctors, hospitals and clinics, delivering high quality patient care to more than 190,000 patient visits in Stanislaus, Fresno, Kings, Tulare, San Joaquin, Los Angeles, Madera, Riverside, San Bernardino and Counties.
LaSalle Medical Associates is one of the largest independent minority owned healthcare companies in California.
(San Bernardino, Calif.) More than ten thousand people throughout the Inland Empire received flu vaccinations this past year, thanks to the efforts of the staff at LaSalle Medical Associates, Inc.
The new flu season starts September 1, 2012 with flu vaccines available at all LaSalle clinics. The seasonal flu vaccine protects against three influenza viruses that research indicates will be most common during the season: an influenza A (H1N1) virus, an influenza A (H3N2) virus and an influenza B virus.
According to the Center for Disease Control (CDC), Influenza, otherwise known as the flu, occurs annually from October through May and is spread by coughing, sneezing or a runny nose. Getting vaccinated can help avoid the flu or lessen its symptoms, which include: fever/chills, sore throat, muscle aches, fatigue, cough, headache and a runny or stuffy nose.
Last year Dr. Albert Arteaga, president and founder of LaSalle Medical Associates, was selected as California’s first-ever CDC Childhood Immunization Champion for LaSalle’s work in immunizations. He was one of only 39 doctors in the United States receiving the prestigious honor.
Advocating precaution to protect yourself and those around you from the flu, LaSalle provided a total of 10,676 flu vaccines this season. Operating a total of four clinics in Fontana, Hesperia and San Bernardino, this annual effort goes a long way in making a difference in curbing the spread of the flu for everyone.
“I cannot stress how important it is to get your annual flu vaccine,” said Dr. Albert A. Arteaga, president of LaSalle Medical Associates. “The benefits of flu vaccines have been proven over and over. It is the best tool we have in preventing the spread of the virus.”
The CDC recommends an annual flu vaccination for everyone age 6 months or older. Vaccination is especially important for people at high risk of influenza complications, including: pregnant women, older adults and young children. New flu vaccines are released every year to keep up with rapidly adapting flu viruses.
“The seasonal flu vaccine are available in September 1, before the start of flu season,” said Dr. Arteaga. “Getting vaccinated now is a great way to avoid the flu. If you do get the flu, to limit the spreading of the virus, anyone with symptoms should stay home from school and work until they are well, and limit contact with others. They also should contact a doctor or clinic, especially if they are worried about the symptoms.”
LaSalle has the High Dose flu vaccine for seniors, the intradermal flu vaccine is a shot that is injected into the skin instead of the muscle, and nasal flu mists for children and adults.
For more information about the seasonal influenza vaccine, or to make an appointment, call LaSalle’s Pediatric clinics in Fontana at 17577 Arrow Blvd. in (909) 823-4454 and in San Bernardino at 1505 West 17th St. (909) 887-6494. LaSalle’s family clinics are located: in San Bernardino at 565 N. Mt. Vernon Ave. (909) 884-9091 and in Hesperia at 16455 Main St. (760) 947-2161.
For more information about this season’s vaccine selection, from the CDC visit Vaccine Virus Selection for the 2012-2013 Influenza Season. About LaSalle Medical Associates
LaSalle Medical Associates is one of the largest independent minority owned healthcare companies in Riverside and San Bernardino Counties.
LaSalle Medical Associates, Inc., operates four clinics employing more than 120 dedicated healthcare professionals, treating children, adults and seniors in San Bernardino County. LaSalle’s patients are primarily served by Medi-Cal and Healthy Families. LaSalle also accept Blue Cross, Blue Shield, Molina, Care 1st, Health Net and Inland Empire Health Plan (IEHP).
LaSalle Medical Associates, Inc., is also an Independent Practice Association (IPA) of independently contracted doctors, hospitals and clinics, delivering high quality patient care to more than 190,000 residents in San Bernardino, Riverside, Los Angeles, Fresno, Kings, Madera, San Joaquin, Stanislaus and Tulare Counties.
LaSalle’s IPA members in the Inland Empire include: LaSalle Medical Associates, Banning Medical Group and San Bernardino Urological Associates. Hospital affiliations include: Rancho Springs Medical Center, Arrowhead Regional Medical Center, Community Hospital of San Bernardino, St. Bernadine Medical Center, Mountains Community Hospital, Redlands Community Hospital, Loma Linda University Medical Center, Corona Regional Medical Center, Riverside County Medical Center, and Parkview Community Hospital.
Carl Maier, executive vice president of operations for LaSalle Medical Associates, signs an agreement with Rhonda Trindle, owner of Tritan International Services. This new agreement extends medical waster services to include members of LaSalle’s Independent Physician Association. Photo by Chris Sloan.
(San Bernardino, Calif.) Members of LaSalle Medical Associates’ Independent Physician Association (IPA) can now save up to 45 percent on the collection and disposal of medical waste thanks to a new agreement with Tritan International Services.
Under the new agreement, Tritan, an Apple Valley-based medical waste disposal company, will provide disposal of sharp object and medical waste to all interested groups within LaSalle’s IPA at a discounted rate.
“The goal is to provide our practitioners with options,” says Carl Maier, executive vice president of Operations for LaSalle Medical Associates. “When practitioners have options the end result is more flexibility to manage their clinic efficiently and provide quality care, which benefits the patient.”
Tritan International Services is family-owned and services all medical facilities, including physician and dental offices, clinics and hospitals. It’s known as a leader in the disposal of sharp objects and medical waste.
“The prices are very reasonable, the service is excellent, and they are environmentally conscientious,’’ said Alexandra Acosta, director of finance and clinic operations at LaSalle Medical Associates. “We also like that they are family-owned and operated.”
LaSalle’s commitment to extending every dollar to practitioners is a key reason healthcare providers across Southern and Central California join LaSalle Medical Associates’ IPA. And, creating an environment where long-standing relationships are extended to those providers is what LaSalle strives for, says Dr. Albert Arteaga, founder and CEO.
“Our healthy relationships with vendors, such as Tritan, are a testament to the type of business we operate, the services we provide and the commitment to the patients we care for,’’ Arteaga says. “And, when there is an opportunity to expand that relationship or to pass on savings to our providers there’s no hesitation.”
While savings is a big component of contracting with a vendor, Maier notes there are other factors taken into consideration when negotiating with vendors. He says LaSalle has to take into consideration what geographic location a vendor serves, their performance history, economic viability and service capacity.
“It is important to find saving opportunities without compromising service,” Maier says. “Not only does Tritan produce significant savings for our members, but their collection and disposal methods are environmentally conscientious and they are dedicated to meeting customer needs.”
Based in Apple Valley, Calif., Tritan is operated by Rhonda and Alan Trindle. It has been in operation for 12 years, providing biohazard waste disposal, hazardous waste disposal, sharps collection and disposal, and emergency response in California, Oregon and Washington State. The company is currently negotiating expansion into New Mexico, Colorado, Arizona and Utah.
Apple Valley-based Tritan International Services provides medical waste disposal at a discount to healthcare facilities. A new agreement between LaSalle Medical Associates and Tritan will save practitioners up to 45 percent on medical waste disposal. Photo by Chris Sloan.
“We began by just focusing on providing customers with a friendly, personal approach, working to meeting their needs,” says Rhonda Trindle. “We are a family business and we want to treat everyone like they are family. We are excited our relationship with LaSalle now includes its IPA members. This extension is proof LaSalle only wants the best for its providers and, ultimately, its patients.”
LaSalle Medical Associates operates four neighborhood clinics, in Fontana, Hesperia and two in San Bernardino, caring for more than 7,500 Inland Empire patients each month. In addition, LaSalle is also an Independent Practice Association (IPA) of independently contracted doctors, hospitals and clinics, delivering high quality patient care to more than 190,000 residents in nine California Counties.
For more information about LaSalle Medical Associates or to make an appointment, call (909) 890-0407 or visit www.LaSalleMedicalAssociates.com. About LaSalle Medical Associates LaSalle Medical Associates is one of the largest independent minority owned healthcare companies in Riverside and San Bernardino Counties.
LaSalle Medical Associates, Inc. operates four clinics employing more than 120 dedicated healthcare professionals, treating children, adults and seniors in San Bernardino County. LaSalle’s patients are primarily served by Medi-Cal and Healthy Families. LaSalle also accept Blue Cross, Blue Shield, Molina, Care 1st, Health Net and Inland Empire Health Plan (IEHP). LaSalle’s clinics are located at 17577 Arrow Blvd. in Fontana, 16455 Main St. in Hesperia, 1505 West 17th St. and 565 N. Mt. Vernon Ave. in San Bernardino. LaSalle Medical Associates, Inc. is also an Independent Practice Association (IPA) of independently contracted doctors, hospitals and clinics, delivering high quality patient care to more than 190,000 residents in San Bernardino, Riverside, Fresno, Kings, Los Angeles, Madera, San Joaquin, Stanislaus and Tulare Counties.
LaSalle’s IPA members in the Inland Empire include: LaSalle Medical Associates, Banning Medical Group and San Bernardino Urological Associates. Hospital affiliations include: Rancho Springs Medical Center, Arrowhead Regional Medical Center, Community Hospital of San Bernardino, St. Bernadine Medical Center, Mountains Community Hospital, Redland Community Hospital, Loma Linda University Medical Center, Corona Regional Medical Center, Riverside County Medical Center, and Parkview Community Hospital.
(San Bernardino, CA) – Carl Dameron, president of Dameron Communications, has been nominated for recognition in the Fourth Annual Spirit of the Entrepreneur awards sponsored by California State University, San Bernardino.
The award honors local business people who have overcome challenges and given back to their community.
“I am honored to be considered for this award,” Dameron said. Dameron said he also appreciates how this awards program promotes an awareness of entrepreneurship among the Inland Empire’s youth.
“They need to realize there are successful professionals who live right down the street from them,” he said.
Dameron, 47, established Dameron Communications in 1989 after a marketing campaign for his former employer, AutoSound, increased that company’s profits by 250 percent. Despite his marketing success, Auto Sound was not able to keep Dameron on the payroll, so he parlayed that success into a business that has helped many other companies and non-profit organizations reach new customers.
Dameron has also worked as a journalist before, both on radio and newspaper. That experience still helps him in dealing with media.
“I see things with a journalist’s eye,” he said.
Some of Dameron’s earliest customers were in the automotive business, and while he has had large corporations as clients, today’s clients include non-profit organizations that pay a reduced rate. Dameron doesn’t charge them full price because he believes they are performing important services for the community.
For instance, the African-American Health Initiative promotes that African Americans in San Bernardino County will die, on average, 13 years before those of other races. The average African-American man in this county will not live to see his 56th birthday.
As the father of two young girls, Dameron does not want to be part of that statistic.
“I want to see my daughters graduate from high school,” he said. “I want to walk them to the altar on their wedding days.” Dameron also is an event producer.
The largest event he is involved with is the Inland Empire Diversity Job Fairs, and he assists the Inland Empire African-American Chambers of Commerce in bringing these to various San Bernardino and Riverside County locations. In the 14 years, they have helped thousands of residents find jobs close to home.
“People should be able to work where they live,” Dameron said. “The job fairs help local employers meet face to face with local people.”
Even though Dameron has recently started another business, 909Models.com, his workforce is still small, with just four full-time employees. The employees keep busy all day, and are talented at what they do, freeing them to concentrate on increasing business.
“I hire good people and stay out of their way,” he said. Frank Doughton, an account executive with the Riverside Press-Enterprise, nominated Dameron for this award.
“Carl has done so much, with his agency, the job fairs, starting 909Models.com and his agency,” Doughton said. “He has been out there, taking the risks, and I just think it’s time he got some recognition.”
Michael Stull, director of the Inland Center for Entrepreneurship, started this recognition program soon after coming to CSUSB in 2002. His university began the program with assistance from the Press-Enterprise, which continues to be a co-sponsor. Other sponsors this year include Arrowhead Credit Union, Citizens Business Bank, Citibank, Inland Empire National Bank, Loma Linda University Medical Center, Varner Saleson and Brandt LLP, Soren McAdam Christenson LLP, Family Business Partnership, Greater Riverside Chambers of Commerce, Glencrest Investment Advisors, the Riverside Convention Center, Wilkin Guge Marketing, KVCR, KTIE, and Milestone Media.
Stull said this program not only promotes awareness of the Center for Entrepreneurship but also provides role models to CSUSB students interested in starting their businesses.
“Students need to know about the great things people are doing right here,” he said.
The deadline to nominate an entrepreneur is Aug. 15. To do so, go to www.inlandspiritawards.com
For more information, call Stull at (909)) 537-3708
