Desert Health News September-October 2024

Every Tuesday from 6-8p at the corner of Washington and Country Club in Palm Desert, B2Hoffers a warmmeal, water, clothing and shoes while Volunteers inMedicine and Eisenhower Health’s street medicine team offer medical care. Psychologist Brian Wexler, PhD is there to offer mental health services while Behavioral Health Specialist Sam Murillo of Riverside University Health System’s Justice Outreach Team is there to help open the door for substance abuse prevention, treatment and behavioral health services. “Bridges to Hope offers a safe place for me to sit with the people I am trying to help,” says Murillo, another caring heart who has walked the walk. “I’ve built rapport and trust over time and that’s what it takes sometimes to break down the barriers.” Every other week Overflow 9:12 offers mobile showers, haircuts, toiletries and undergarment essentials, while Broken Chains and Celebrate Recovery provide Narcan training and product to combat drug overdose. When individuals are ready to take the next steps to help themselves, B2H is there to assist. The team takes time to identify needs and desires—from finding Taz sized 30x30 jeans to opening the door of Matthew’s new apartment, from providing transportation to helping with ID card and food stamp applications. For those who show promise in remaining clean and sober, B2H brings together community organizations to help secure housing including Jewish Family Services which facilitates housing and adult protection services, and the Coachella Valley Association of Governments (CVAG). AllB2Hoffersclientsisthroughvolunteerism,donations and grants—fromtheir weeklymeals, furnishings, clothing and transportation, to the time, care and respect they provide the people they serve. Individuals and businesses can assist by sponsoring a weekly meal (like caterer Thom Emery who sponsors a monthly barbeque) or providing necessities like flashlights, sleeping bags, and backpacks for those entering treatment. Home sponsorships include furnishings, a kitchen or bathroom set up, or an initial food stock. “Bridging the gap starts with care and respect which is the most important thing you can offer members of our unhoused community,” says Verdugo, “because it’s easier to help someone when you know who they are.” For more information about Bridges 2 Hope and how you can help, visit www.thebridges2hope.com or (760) 831.0840, Bridgestwohope@gmail.com . Editorial by Lauren Del Sarto. Front photo featuring (left to right): Peggy Grabow, Michele Verdugo, Susan Veldey and Jacquie McClure. The Palm Springs Academy for Learning Medicine (PALM) at Palm Springs High School offers academic classes focusing on medicine, certifications and practical skills development. The academy aims to help students achieve academic success, personal growth and career readiness through a supportive and engaging learning environment. One of the significant advantages ofthisfour-yearprogramiswitnessing how the real world works. We have many opportunities to improve our skills and learn from our mistakes. PALM provides job shadowing and internship opportunities that help strengthen students' knowledge and allow them to participate in hands- on experiences. These experiences enable students to try and attain goals, however if they fall short, they are exposed to important teaching moments. By experiencing and analyzing errors, students gain a more thorough understanding, eventually improving their abilities and knowledge. Taking part in internships and job shadowing demonstrates one's commitment to the field and a proactive approach to learning. The experiences also help build relationships with mentors and classmates. These are wonderful benefits as they help build essential skills such as professionalism, patient communication and empathy. Team unity is another important aspect gained from being a part of PALM as working together keeps everyone informed on protocols and procedures and ensures consistent patient care. Furthermore, the benefits of our academy extend beyond the classroom. In addition to participating in our internships, students are required to undergo interviews to enhance their interviewing skills. PALM also assists students with resume writing as we start to build our portfolio with community service hours and leadership roles within the academy. Even if our future career choices don’t align with the medical field, we inherit valuable life skills from our academy that prepare us for college and future careers. The Palm Springs Academy for Learning Medicine builds opportunities for students allowing them to develop hands-on skills in a professional environment. This academy is an excellent and positive influence on students and, not only shapes the careers of tomorrow’s leaders, but also strengthens our community today. This fall, Kimberly Ramos and Miranda Gonzalez start their junior year in the PALM program. For more information on valley medical academies, visit OneFuture Coachella Valley at www.OneFutureCV.org or call (760) 625.0422. www.DesertHealthNews.com September/October 2024 Medical News The Valley ' s Leading Resource for Health and Wellness 6 Matthew shows his appreciation on move-in day. Hearts for Housing Continued from page 1 www.halodx.com Say hello to HALO! For over 20 years, Desert Medical Imaging was a trusted source for local imaging services. Founded by leading radiologist John F. Feller, MD, the company also became known internationally for their excellence in research. In the past decade, HALO Precision Diagnostics was founded nationally on the principle of saving lives through early disease detection. In 2020, the companies joined forces to deliver unparalleled diagnostic services to help patients navigate diseases and save more lives. O ering imaging, biomarkers, genomics and the latest technological advancements including artificial intelligence and new serum, urine and saliva tests, HALO Precision Diagnostics remains a trusted source in the Coachella Valley and beyond. Our mission is to save lives through early detection locally and globally. The HALO research team continues its research and development in prostate cancer diagnostics, treatment and care in Indian Wells with new clinical trials underway. John F. Feller, MD, CMO Christopher Hancock, MD Neuroradiologist Je rey H. Herz, MD Urologist Steven R. Gunberg, DO Radiologist Pedram Ilbeigi, DO, FACS Urologist Bernadette M. Greenwood, RT (R)(MR)(ARRT), PhD(c), CRO Kyle Fromm Compliance and Privacy O‰cer Thomas Slavin MD, MBA, FACMGG, DABMD, CSO For more information on services and clinical trials, visit HALODx.com or call 760.322.8883 PALM students celebrate their academy on PSHS athletic field bleachers. B2H clients Tyler and Cassie gratefully maintain employment and their new apartment. Career Exploration and Preparation By Students Kimberly Ramos and Miranda Gonzalez