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Kids' Health
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Thousands of Latino families are confused and frustrated by the American health care system as a result of language barriers, transportation restrictions, cost of care, and fear of reprisal for utilizing free or low-cost government health services. Low-income families face multiple challenges when seeking health care for their children. Those challenges can include reams of paperwork to fill out, long bus rides with their sick children, and hours sitting in waiting rooms. For these reasons, some parents forgo preventive care and seek help only when there is an urgent need. Sadly, this decision can be risky, or worse. Studies show that Latino children are at increased risk for developing obesity, diabetes and asthma, and would benefit from preventive care. The U.S. health-care system can be puzzling to those new to this country. In countries like Mexico, medication can be purchased without a prescription directly from a pharmacy, and the personnel at the pharmacy diagnose conditions over the phone. Similar unlicensed "storefront" pharmacies have popped up in the U.S., attracting patients interested in avoiding the delays, cost and unfamiliarity of hospitals or clinics. Well-meaning parents, choosing this more familiar and apparently hassle-free route, often place their children in danger. A call to your primary care physician first may help you avoid hours spent in the emergency room when you or your children begin to feel ill. Having a doctor who takes the time to get to know you and your child has long-term beneficial effects. Your regular doctor can also make sure that your child is on schedule for life-saving immunizations. Don't be afraid to ask questions. If English is your second language, ask for a translator. Dr. Richelle K. Marracino is a family practice physician at the Jurupa Valley branch of the Riverside Medical Clinic. Info: 909.683.6370 or visit www.riversidemedicalclinic.com. Resources AIM (Access for Infants and Mothers): 800.433.2611 Riverside County WIC Program (Women, Infants and Children's Program): 909.358.5311 or www.wicworks.ca.gov Medi-Cal: www.medi-cal.ca.gov Healthy Families: 800.880.5305 or www.healthyfamilies.ca.gov California Kids: 818.461.1406, Ext. 406 or www.californiakids.org Child Health Disability Prevention Program (CHDP): www.dhs.ca.gov/pcfh/cms/chdp/ |
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