Canby Connection • december 2013
Page 7
dolescence is the time that newfound independence brings challenges
and opportunities for parents and teens. Teaching driving skills, negotiat-
ing later curfews, researching colleges, and discussing various topics that
are sensitive in nature are a few areas that, as parents, we may struggle.
The idea of letting go and allowing them to make informed decisions is
uncomfortable and frightening.
This is a great time to talk to them about managing their own healthcare and
concerns. As their independence increases, it is often a time when they are con-
cerned about confiding in their childhood doctor. Sit
down together and discuss what kind of doctor they
would like to see and look online at different doc-
tor’s profiles.
Encourage them to talk with family and friends
about their experiences with their doctors to help
them make an informed decision. As parents, it’s
comforting to know there is someone who you trust
that they can turn to in discussing sensitive topics
and medical conditions, list of medications, allergies,
hospital stays and outcomes, lab results or medical
tests.
NWPC has ‘MyChart’, an online chart, that provides
a great opportunity to show them how to access
their online medical information.
Start with the basics:
Medications: Discuss medications they may be taking, the side effects, and
how to read medication labels. Remind them never to use other people’s med-
ications. Teach them how and where to have prescription refills filled.
Allergies: Be certain your adolescent understands any allergies they may
have and how to treat them if there is a bad reaction.
Insurance: Talk to them about the type of insurance coverage and the
amount of the copays. Be sure they carry an insurance ID card with them.
Healthy Eating and Exercise: Encourage them to be involved with food
selection and preparation and talk about the advantages of good nutrition and
exercise.
Family or Internal Medicine Doctor: This is a perfect time to discuss transi-
tioning to a healthcare provider who can help both of you have happy and
healthy adolescent years.
a. Physicians may discuss sensitive, private topics with teens about drugs,
sexuality, alcohol, and depression.
b. Prepare them to think about questions they may have for the doctor in
advance.
Since adolescents are quite internet savvy and are quick to look up symptoms and
problems in sites such as WebMD, encourage them to discuss these topics with their
doctor. Often ‘internet diagnosing’ misses the human touch and logic that a doctor will
provide. As parents we experience frightening, sleepless nights with the ‘letting go’
phase of adolescence, but when they are well prepared and have other professionals
in their lives who both of you trust, it can make the transition easier for everyone.
Alicia Saultz
NW Pr imary Care
f you are like me, I am very surprised that the Holiday Season is
already here. I'm certain I just packed away the summer
clothes last week and now Christmas advertisements are
everywhere. My kids were wanting to decorate for Christmas
as soon as Halloween was over.
As soon as we hit December, it will be an onslaught of shop-
ping, wrapping, parties,
and added responsibilities
that make the days longer
and the weeks shorter.
That is, until it hits
December 26 and it was
over seemingly before it
started.
We've all heard the say-
ing "Take the time to
enjoy the little things".
That is what I'm taking
extra attention to this sea-
son. I am so thankful for
my family who are
healthy, safe, and caring
individuals. My family is
so very thankful for the
support we receive in our
business and the love
offered to us by our
friends.
We should all be thank-
ful for living in the Pacific
Northwest, away from so
many problems that our
world contains and lack-
ing the opportunities that we are offered here.
No Holiday Season is without its challenges, stresses, and frustra-
tions. Everything could be better. The glass is never full to the brim.
But far more have it far worse.
Take the time this season for giving, thanking, and cherishing. Stop
by and see us at 333 NW Third Ave. in Canby or give us a call at 503-
266-2705.
Happy Holidays from all of us to all of you.
— Dr. Kevin B. Johnson
Dr. Kev in Johnson
Dr. Kevin Johnson and family.
459323.112513.CC
Dr. Kevin B. Johnson and
staff would like to say
THANK YOU to all of our
patients for their loyalty
and referrals.
We love what we do
because of all of you.
HAPPY HOLIDAYS
from all of us here at
the office.
We are happy to be a
part of this great
community and look
forward to having YOU as a patient.
• Accepting new patients
• Flexible hours to schedule before or after work
• Call to schedule today 503-266-2705
“We look forward to giving you
something to smile about”
Now Open For Dinner
Wednesday – Saturday ’til 8pm
243 NW 2nd Ave., Canby • 503-266-5452
• Great Food at Affordable Prices
• Fun Family Atmosphere
• All Entrées Under $10
Banquet Room Available
• Meetings • Parties • Large Groups
• 4 100% Health Inpections In a Row
Pappy’s Greasy Spoon
Check Out
Our Nightly
Specials!
459357.112513.CC
459343.112513.CC
Custom gift boxes/baskets
• Chocolates
• Truffle Cake
• Wine
• Pumpkin Bars
• Wine Truffles
• Hazelnut Toffee
• Cheese Fondue • Pecan Brittle
• and Much More!
CHOCOL AT E S AND W I N E B AR
“A Unique Gathering Place”
Open Tue-Wed 9am-6pm Thurs-Sat 9am-10pm
332 NW 1st Ave, Canby • 503-263-2626
www.puddinriverchocolates.com
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