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Breaking Down Pricing, Benefits & Risks

Table of Contents

• What Are GLP-1s & How Do GLP-1s Work?
• Benefits of GLP-1 Medications
• Risks of GLP-1 Medications
• How to Get a GLP-1 Prescription From Coryell Health
• GLP-1 Online Pricing

From national headlines to endorsements from celebrities like Serena Williams and Rebel Wilson, it seems like everyone is talking about GLP-1s these days. The good news is that you don’t have to be famous or navigate confusing online programs to explore these treatments.

Whether you’re managing Type 2 diabetes or exploring medical weight loss options, this guide explains how to get a GLP-1 prescription right here in Gatesville at Coryell Health and what the benefits and side effects may include.

What Are GLP-1s & How Do GLP-1s Work?

GLP-1s (short for glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists) are a group of medications first approved by the FDA in 2005 to help regulate blood sugar in people with Type 2 diabetes. In recent years, the FDA has begun approving GLP-1s specifically for chronic weight management to help treat obesity, as they can increase satiety, decrease hunger and result in significant weight loss.

There are several categories of GLP-1 medications, including tirzepatides (such as Mounjaro and Zepbound), semaglutides (such as Ozempic and Wegovy) and liraglutides (such as Saxenda and Victoza). Talk to your Coryell Health primary care provider about which variety of GLP-1 medication would be best for you.

Benefits of GLP-1 Medications

GLP-1 medications may help:

• Promote weight loss
• Lower your blood sugar levels
• Lower your blood pressure
• Reduce your risk of heart disease
• Reduce your risk of kidney disease
• Delay the progression of diabetes-related nephropathy

“It’s important to note that taking a GLP-1 medication alone doesn’t help manage Type 2 diabetes or result in weight loss,” says Coryell Health primary care physician Dr. Shrey Goel. “You also need to make changes to your lifestyle, like your diet and how often you exercise, in order to see those kinds of results.”

Risks of GLP-1 Medications

GLP-1 medications aren’t right for everyone. Coryell Health doesn’t recommend taking GLP-1 medications if you:

• Are pregnant or breastfeeding
• Have a personal or family history of medullary thyroid cancer (MTC)
• Have a diagnosis of multiple endocrine neoplasia syndrome type 2
• Have a history of pancreatitis
• Have severe gastrointestinal conditions

Side effects of taking a GLP-1 medication may include:

• Loss of appetite
• Nausea and vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Dizziness
• Mildly increased heart rate
• Pancreatitis
• Medullary thyroid cancer (MTC)
• Acute kidney injury

If you’re unsure whether an existing condition, your personal history or your family history will not mix well with a GLP-1 medication, talk with your Coryell Health primary care provider to determine whether a GLP-1 medication is right for you.

How to Get a GLP-1 Prescription From Coryell Health

“You can get a prescription for a GLP-1 medication right here in Gatesville from Coryell Health,” says Coryell Health physician assistant Jourdan Whorley. “Schedule an appointment with your primary care provider at our Gatesville clinic, and you can discuss your options together.”

GLP-1 Online Pricing

Although your insurance may not cover the cost of your GLP-1 prescription from Coryell Health, getting a prescription from your Coryell Health primary care provider is often more affordable than the prices you may find online, like in the chart below. Your insurance plan will also often cover your Coryell Health appointment, even if there’s a copay for the drug.

If you’d like information on Coryell Health’s GLP-1 pricing, please talk to your Coryell Health primary care provider.

Fully understanding how GLP-1s work and realistic expectations for results requires a conversation with your primary care provider, not just a checkout cart. At Coryell Health, you can sit down with someone who truly understands your history and your goals.

If you’re ready to take the next step in obtaining a GLP-1 prescription, call (254) 865-2166 to schedule an appointment with your Coryell Health primary care provider in Gatesville today.

Meet the Practitioners

Dr. Shrey Goel is a family medicine physician who practices at Coryell Health’s Waco clinic and Coryell Health’s Gatesville clinic in Building 2. Dr. Goel earned his Doctor of Medicine from the University of Arizona College of Medicine in Tucson and completed his residency training with Waco Family Medicine, where he served as a chief resident. Dr. Goel treats patients of all ages and specializes in the medical management of chronic diseases, joint injections and more.

Jourdan Whorley, PA-C, specializes in preventative medicine for all ages at Coryell Health’s Gatesville clinic in Building 2. Jourdan was the captain of the women’s soccer team during her time at Texas State University, where she graduated summa cum laude with her bachelor’s degree in dietetics. She then earned her master’s degree in physician assistant studies from the University of North Texas Health Science Center in Fort Worth. Jourdan’s approach to patient care is centered on risk reduction and early disease detection, with the goal of engaging patients in their own health journey.

Resources

• Medicare Coverage of GLP-1 Drugs (Congressional Research Service)
• GLP-1 Agonists (The Cleveland Clinic) 
• Semaglutides (Mayo Clinic)
• Liraglutides (Mayo Clinic)
• Tirzepatides (Mayo Clinic)
• Ozempic Pricing (Ozempic)
• Wegovy Pricing (Wegovy)
• Mounjaro Pricing (Lilly)
• Zepbound Pricing (Lilly)

Understanding Your Top and Bottom Numbers

Table of Contents

• What Does the Top Number on My Blood Pressure Mean?
• What Does the Bottom Number on My Blood Pressure Mean?
• What is “Normal” Blood Pressure?
• What Does My Blood Pressure Mean?
• I Have High Blood Pressure—What Do I Do?

Nearly half of Americans have high blood pressure, yet many don’t even know what their blood pressure readings mean.

This American Heart Month, Coryell Health cardiologists are shedding light on one of the most important indicators of cardiovascular health: your blood pressure. Understanding both the top and bottom numbers of your blood pressure can help you recognize your risk for heart disease early on and take control of your heart health before complications arise.

What Does the Top Number on My Blood Pressure Mean?

The top number of your blood pressure is your systolic blood pressure. This number measures the pressure at which your blood is pushing against the walls of your arteries when your heart beats.

Although both your top (systolic) and bottom (diastolic) numbers are important, your systolic blood pressure is the key indicator of your risk of developing heart disease—especially for people over age 50.

What Does the Bottom Number on My Blood Pressure Mean?

The bottom number of your blood pressure is your diastolic blood pressure. This number measures the pressure at which your blood is pushing against the walls of your arteries when your heart is resting in between beats.

Unlike systolic blood pressure, your diastolic blood pressure actually tends to naturally lower as you age. Since your arteries stiffen with age, they become less elastic and have more trouble bouncing back between heartbeats, which causes your diastolic blood pressure to drop. This means it’s especially noticeable when your diastolic blood pressure increases, and it can be a sign of hypertension.

What is “Normal” Blood Pressure?

If you’re worried about whether your own blood pressure is normal for your age, gender, weight or other factors, consult the chart below and talk to your Coryell Health cardiologist.

What Does My Blood Pressure Mean?

Now that you know what the systolic (top number) and diastolic (bottom number) blood pressures mean, here are the categories your blood pressure may fall under.

I Have High Blood Pressure—What Do I Do?

If you’re experiencing hypertension or even elevated blood pressure, Coryell Health’s cardiology team recommends:

• Exercising regularly (aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise per day)
• Eating plenty of whole grains, fruits, vegetables and low-fat dairy products
• Reducing salt and sodium in your diet
• Limiting your alcohol intake
• Quitting smoking

If your blood pressure readings are elevated or consistently high, early intervention can make all the difference. Coryell Health offers advanced cardiology care, including calcium heart CT scans, to help you identify any risk early and create a personalized care plan to support your lifelong heart health.

Call (254) 865-2166 to schedule an appointment with a Coryell Health cardiologist and call (254) 248-6238 to schedule your calcium heart CT scan (only $50 through the end of March) and assess your future risk of experiencing a heart attack or stroke.

Meet the Doctors

Dr. Brian Walton is a board certified interventional cardiologist with over 20 years of experience in general cardiology, interventional cardiology and vascular medicine. Throughout his career, he has served as the director of cardiovascular imaging and experimental therapeutics at the Texas Heart Institute (THI) and the associate editor of the THI Journal. Dr. Walton is a member of both the American Heart Association and the American College of Cardiology. He’s also an accomplished researcher with prior appointments at Houston Methodist Hospital and The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston.

Dr. Abdul Keylani is a cardiologist with over 30 years of experience treating patients of all ages. Dr. Keylani specializes in echocardiography, interventional cardiology, nuclear cardiology and peripheral endovascular interventional cardiology. He’s also highly experienced in valvular heart disease, interventional cardiology, cardiac catheterization and echocardiography.

Resources

• High Blood Pressure Facts (U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention)
• Heart Disease Risk Factors (U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention)
• Understanding Blood Pressure Readings (American Heart Association)
• What is High Blood Pressure? (National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute)
• High Blood Pressure Dangers: Hypertension’s Effects On Your Body (Mayo Clinic)

Coryell Health’s Coryell Memorial Hospital has been recognized by Becker’s Hospital Review as one of the top-recommended hospitals in Texas, earning a spot on Becker’s list of “The top-recommended hospitals in every state.” The distinction is based on patient experience data from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS).

Becker’s Hospital Review compiled the list using publicly reported Hospital Consumer Assessment of Healthcare Providers and Systems (HCAHPS) data from CMS, which measures patients’ perspectives of hospital care. Specifically, the recommended hospital star rating reflects responses to the HCAHPS question, “Would you recommend this hospital to your friends and family?”

CMS shares 10 HCAHPS star ratings based on patient survey data. To be eligible for a star rating, hospitals must have at least 100 completed HCAHPS surveys over a four-quarter period. The data used for this recognition was collected from hospital patients throughout 2024 and released by CMS through its Provider Data Catalog on Nov. 26. Hospitals marked with an asterisk in the Becker’s report indicate CMS included a footnote related to the organization’s data.

“We are incredibly proud to be recognized by Becker’s Hospital Review as one of the most recommended hospitals in Texas,” said David Byrom, chief executive officer of Coryell Health. “This recognition is especially meaningful because it comes directly from the voices of our patients. It reflects the dedication, compassion, and professionalism our physicians, nurses, and staff bring to our community every single day.”

Coryell Memorial Hospital serves Gatesville and surrounding communities with a commitment to high-quality, patient-centered care. The hospital’s inclusion on Becker’s list underscores its continued focus on patient experience, clinical excellence, and trust.

From February 1st to March 31st, we’re offering $50 (usually $100!) calcium heart CT scans. Don’t miss out on this discount! If you think you or your loved one may be at risk of a future heart attack or stroke, call (254) 248-6238 to schedule your scans today: https://bit.ly/49Vct0L.

Inspire is the only FDA-approved obstructive sleep apnea therapy that works inside your body to treat the root causes of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA).

“In our practice, we see many patients who have stopped using or are unable to tolerate CPAP,” said Coryell Health ENT doctor, Dr. Bradford Holland, MD. “Inspire represents a significant advancement in treating sleep apnea. It is clinically proven to reduce sleep apnea events, has a high level of patient satisfaction and has a high therapy adherence. We are excited to offer this promising therapy at Coryell Health to sleep apnea patients who struggle with CPAP-related issues.”

KEY INSPIRE TAKEAWAYS:

• Inspire sleep apnea treatment addresses OSA by stimulating airway muscles.
• The implanted device monitors breathing and delivers pulses to keep the tongue out of the airway.
• Inspire treatment is suitable for moderate to severe OSA cases that have not responded to other treatments.
• The treatment involves surgery and should be evaluated by healthcare professionals.

MORE ABOUT INSPIRE:

Inspire opens your airway by moving your tongue forward inside your mouth so that it doesn’t block your breathing passages. The device consists of three major components: a monitor that measures your breathing, a nerve stimulator that adjusts your tongue placement and a remote.

Before going to sleep, you turn on your device with the remote. Once activated, the device implanted in your upper chest begins to monitor your breathing. The device communicates with the nerve stimulator located under your chin each time you take a breath, and the stimulator sends a gentle pulse to the nerve that controls your tongue’s motor function. The stimulation causes your tongue to move toward the front of your mouth, clearing up more space for air to pass.

Because the treatment makes it easier to breathe, you’re less likely to snore, stop breathing, gasp, or choke. This increases your overall sleep quality. Users report noticing the pulsing sensation beneath their chins while awake, but not after falling asleep. The stimulation should not be uncomfortable or painful, though it is noticeable. You should not feel any discomfort from the device in your chest.

Interested in options to learn more?

Visit Inspire.com

Download the Inspire Patient Education Booklet

Call Coryell Health Medical Clinic (254) 865-2166

1. Woodson et al., OTO–HNS, 2018; 2. Suurna et al. Laryngoscope 2021

How to Reduce Your Joint Pain

It’s not just your imagination—winter weather really can increase your joint pain. Cold temperatures and seasonal changes can significantly impact how your joints feel, especially if you already experience arthritis or chronic pain.

The good news? A few lifestyle changes can help ease your joint pain in winter and allow you to move comfortably during these colder months. Here are five ways to help soothe your aching joints in winter.

Tip #1: Increase Your Vitamin D Intake

“Winter means less sunlight and less vitamin D,” says Coryell Health pain management specialist Dr. Austin Horrocks. “A lack of vitamin D has been shown to increase sensitivity to arthritic pain.”

Our bodies also require vitamin D for the absorption of calcium, which is essential for maintaining bone strength and density. Joints exist wherever two bones meet, and weakened bones can put more stress on your joints.

Tip #2: Keep Moving

“When it’s miserable outside, we get out and exercise less,” says Coryell Health orthopedic surgeon Dr. Lance Ellis. “When your body isn’t as active, it can lead to increased muscle weakness and inflammation, which can then lead to increased joint pain. It’s basically a case of ‘use it or lose it.’ The less you move, the stiffer your body will become. Joint lubrication also decreases with age and arthritis, and movement stimulates joint fluid production, which helps decrease joint stiffness. It’s okay to stick with small exercises—you don’t want to strain yourself. Every bit helps. You just have to keep moving.”

Tip #3: Bundle Up

Wearing the right clothes when you go out into the elements can make all the difference for your joint pain. Ensure that your hands, knees and hips are well-insulated, as these are common areas prone to joint pain in winter.

“It sounds obvious, but wearing layers is essential to easing your winter joint pain,” Dr. Lance Ellis says. “Your first priority is to keep your torso warm. You also lose about 7-10% of your body heat through your head, so wearing a hat always helps. Don’t be afraid of looking silly. We may be in Texas, but we still need to bundle up in the winter.”

Tip #4: Eat Anti-Inflammatory Foods

Joint pain often flares up in the winter due to colder temperatures and frequent fluctuations in barometric pressure. This weather, unfortunately, creates a perfect recipe for increased inflammation.

“Lower barometric pressure associated with clouds, rain or snow can cause the tissue around your joints to expand,” Dr. Austin Horrocks says. “This inflammation is what puts extra pressure on the nerves inside your joints and causes aching joints in winter.”

If your joint pain continues despite lifestyle changes, lasts longer than expected or interferes with your daily activities, Dr. Horrocks and the Coryell Health pain management team can create a personalized treatment plan to keep you moving comfortably year-round. Call (254) 865-2166 to see how pain management from Coryell Health can change your life for the better.

Tip #5: Use Heat Therapy

“Applying heat to your body causes your blood vessels to expand and increase blood flow,” says Coryell Health physical therapist Dr. Jacob Brindle. “This allows more oxygen and nutrients to reach your affected joints and help relieve your pain.”

By improving circulation, heat therapy can help ease joint stiffness, loosen tight muscles and support movement during the winter months.

“For a makeshift heating pad, put a wet washcloth in a freezer bag and warm it in the microwave for a minute,” Dr. Jacob Brindle says. “It doesn’t have to be fancy. Hold it on your affected joints for 20-30 minutes, and it can work wonders for your joint pain.”

You can also incorporate heat therapy into your daily routine through:

• Taking warm showers in the morning
• Soaking in a hot bath for 15-20 minutes
• Swimming in a heated pool for 30 minutes

If you’re looking for additional relief, Coryell Health’s Waco clinic offers red light therapy as part of its physical therapy offerings. Red light therapy is a non-invasive treatment designed to help reduce inflammation and increase blood flow to affected tissues. Call (254) 248-6401 to learn more about red light therapy or schedule an appointment with Dr. Brindle and the Waco clinic physical therapy team today.

Joint pain tends to flare up in winter, but with the right habits and support, relief is possible. If your joint pain persists or worsens, Coryell Health’s pain management, physical therapy, and orthopedics and sports medicine teams are here to help you find lasting relief and improve your quality of life.

Not sure which of these areas of medicine is right for you? Talk to your Coryell Health primary care physician or call (254) 865-2166 to see which category of care best fits your needs.

Meet the Doctors

Dr. Jacob Brindle is a physical therapist who is competency-certified in vestibular therapy, with over 15 years of experience treating patients. Dr. Brindle earned his Doctor of Physical Therapy from the Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center in Lubbock. After 10 years in private practice, Dr. Brindle decided to join Coryell Health so he could be part of a larger team and serve more people in his community. Dr. Brindle specializes in treating neurological and vestibular (balance) conditions through physical therapy. When he’s not helping patients, Dr. Brindle enjoys gardening, going to the beach and going skiing with his wife and three children.

Dr. Lance Ellis is a board certified orthopedic surgeon with over 20 years of experience in the medical field. A native Texan, Dr. Ellis earned his bachelor’s degree from Baylor University and his Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine from the Kansas City University College of Osteopathic Medicine. He then completed his residency training and served as chief resident at Mercy Health — St. Vincent Medical Center in Toledo, Ohio. His specialties include joint reconstruction, orthopedic spine surgery, minimally invasive treatments for bone and joint pain, hip replacement and robot-assisted total knee replacement surgery.

Dr. Austin Horrocks is a board certified pain management specialist who earned his bachelor’s degree from Brigham Young University and his Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine from the Arizona College of Osteopathic Medicine at Midwestern University. He then completed his residency training in anesthesiology at the University of Texas Health Science Center in San Antonio. With extensive experience treating sports injuries, arthritis, joint pain, compression fractures and more, one of his favorite parts about specializing in pain management is seeing his patients enjoy their favorite activities again. When he’s not helping patients, Dr. Horrocks enjoys spending time with his wife and three children.

Resources

• Why is the Cold Weather Hard on Your Joints? (Columbia University Irving Medical Center)
• What Triggers Weather-Related Joint Pain? (Harvard Health Publishing)
• How Changes in Weather Affect Joint Pain (The Cleveland Clinic)
• Vitamin D Deficiency (The Cleveland Clinic)
• Staying Active With Joint Pain (Mayo Clinic Health System)
• Heat Therapy Helps Relax Stiff Joints (The Arthritis Foundation)

Reflecting on a Year of Milestones

From welcoming new practitioners and adding new service offerings to breaking ground on a new clinic location, there’s been a lot to celebrate and be grateful for at Coryell Health this year. As we look back on 2025, we’re especially grateful for our patients, physicians and staff who made it all possible.

We asked our physicians and staff to reflect on their favorite memories from 2025, and their answers reflect the dedication and teamwork that make Coryell Health special.

In March, we celebrated the grand openings of both our McGregor clinic and Copperas Cove clinic alongside the cities’ respective chambers of commerce with ribbon-cutting ceremonies.

“I’m so grateful to have had the opportunity to serve the McGregor community for the past year. From providing sports physicals to McGregor ISD students to hosting our walk-in flu shot clinic, every moment reminds me why I love practicing medicine and bringing high-quality, accessible care to folks.”
– Dr. Colby Cessnun, MD

“The Copperas Cove clinic has quickly become a hub for local families, including many from Fort Cavazos. Knowing that we’re making healthcare more accessible for the military families and neighbors I see each day makes this milestone very rewarding.”
– Dawn Pessa, MSN, FNP-BC

Those weren’t the only milestones ribbon-cutting ceremonies marked this year!

“One of my favorite moments from 2025 was breaking ground on our new Waco clinic. Seeing the vision we’ve worked on for months finally start to take shape reminded me why we do this work: to bring more patient-centered, comprehensive care to the people in our community.” – Clinton Black, Chief Operations Officer

“After 10 years in private practice, I joined Coryell Health because I wanted to be part of something bigger and part of a team that could reach more people in our community. This year, joining this team and seeing the Waco clinic expand to include physical therapy was so exciting.” – Dr. Jacob Brindle, PT, DPT

Dr. Brindle wasn’t the only practitioner who joined Coryell Health this year. In 2025, Coryell Health welcomed five other physicians!

“One of my favorite moments of 2025 was joining Coryell Health and helping bring urology services to the Gatesville community. It’s been very rewarding to help patients get the treatment they need close to home.” – Dr. David Pinkstaff, MD

“Joining Coryell Health’s Gatesville team this year has been such a wonderful experience. I’ve loved getting to know patients, their families and becoming part of a community that values strong relationships and compassionate care.” – Dr. Jesse Cover, MD

“Becoming part of Coryell Health this year has been such a meaningful step in my career. I collaborate with such skilled providers in podiatric medicine and wound care, and we’re able to make a real difference for patients with complex needs.” – Dr. Vanessa English, DPM, FACFAS, DABPM

“What drew me to Coryell Health was their commitment to providing comprehensive, compassionate care close to home. Every day, I have the chance to walk with patients through all stages of life. That sense of community and continuity is what makes this work so special.” – Dr. Amy Chung, MD

“From day one at Coryell Health, I’ve felt welcomed by both the patients and the team. It’s been especially rewarding to care for families in Waco and Gatesville, and to be a part of a healthcare system that truly prioritizes access and compassion.” – Dr. Shrey Goel, MD

In addition to welcoming new physicians, our teams have been hard at work and are being recognized for the high level of care they provide.

“The Advanced Wound Center receiving a clinical distinction award was definitely a highlight of this year. This recognition really reflects the hard work and dedication our staff puts into caring for every patient. It’s rewarding to see how our teamwork helps people heal and improves their quality of life.” – Amy Bass, APRN, FNP-C

“Receiving a grant through the Civil Money Penalty Reinvestment Program, allowing us to provide specialized dementia care for all of our RehabLiving team members, is an incredible step forward for our team and the residents we serve. We’re all so grateful for the opportunity to enhance the care we provide to residents and their families.” – Maranda May, LNFA

“Looking back on this past year, one moment that stands out to me is our EMS department being recognized by the American Heart Association for our commitment to quality care for heart attacks and strokes in Gatesville. The recognition is an honor, but what it really represents is our commitment to the people we serve every day.” – Daniel Lay, Coryell Health EMS Director

We also appreciated the opportunity to give back to our community.

“This year’s Food for Families fundraiser reminded me why I’m so proud to be a part of Coryell Health. Seeing our staff raise more than $22,000 for the Gatesville Care Center is a moment I’ll always cherish. It was a reminder of who we are as a team: generous, compassionate and deeply rooted in this community.” – Carly Latham, Coryell Health Director of Marketing

As we close out 2025, our hearts are full of gratitude for our patients who trust us with their care, for our physicians and staff for their dedication to supporting our patients, and for the communities that we serve. We were honored to receive the 75-Year Member Tenure Award from the Texas Hospital Association this year, marking seven and a half decades of service.

Thank you to everyone who helped make 2025 such a special year for Coryell Health, and for your ongoing support every year.

5 Ways to Help Keep Your Brain Healthy

According to the Alzheimer’s Association, Alzheimer’s disease is the most common form of dementia, a general term for memory loss and cognitive decline severe enough to interfere with daily life.

Although there isn’t a cure for Alzheimer’s disease yet, there are ways to help reduce your risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease. In honor of National Alzheimer’s Disease Awareness Month, here are five ways to help keep your mind healthy.

Tip #1: Preserve Your Hearing

Damaged hair cells don’t grow back, so if you’re experiencing hearing loss, it’s essential to preserve what hearing you do have. Hearing aids improve cognitive function and may help slow the onset of dementia.

Dr. Brindley provides hearing aid fittings, baseline hearing evaluations and treatment for tinnitus (ringing in the ears) at Coryell Health’s Gatesville clinic in Building 1. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Brindley, call (254) 865-2166.

Tip #2: Look After Your Heart

To quote the American Heart Association, “what’s good for the heart is good for the brain.” In 2022, the American Heart Association reported that coronary heart disease led to a 40% increased risk of dementia, cognitive impairment or general cognitive decline.

“Your heart directly affects your cognitive functioning,” says Coryell Health cardiologist Dr. Brian Walton. “A healthy heart allows oxygen and nutrients to flow to your brain. Risk factors like diabetes, high blood pressure and high cholesterol are risk factors for both heart disease and dementia.”

To help manage these risk factors for both cardiovascular disease and Alzheimer’s disease, Coryell Health recommends:

• Exercising at least 2.5 hours a week
• Maintaining a diet of fish, poultry, vegetables, fruit, nuts, beans and whole grains
• Consuming little to no red meat, sweets, butter and sugary drinks
• Quitting smoking

To schedule an appointment with a Coryell Health cardiologist, call (254) 865-2166.

Tip #3: Avoid Head Trauma

If you sustain a traumatic brain injury, it may increase your risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease. According to the Alzheimer’s Association, falls are the leading cause of traumatic brain injuries, and approximately one in four Americans aged 65 and over reports a fall each year.

Fall-proofing your home by clearing clutter from the floor, improving your home’s lighting and securing or removing loose rugs can help decrease your risk of falling. Get your vision checked regularly and discuss any side effects from your medications with your doctor to also help prevent a traumatic brain injury and dementia.

Other ways to decrease the risk of sustaining a traumatic brain injury include:

• Always wearing a helmet and other protective gear when riding a bike, skateboarding, skiing or participating in a contact sport
• Always wearing a seatbelt
• Regularly maintaining your vehicle

Tip #4: Stay Social

“Socializing engages the brain and promotes better cognition,” says Dr. Diedra Wuenschel, Coryell Health family medicine physician and Coryell County medical authority. “It strengthens your neural pathways to fight off cognitive decline. It also stimulates the parts of your brain associated with attention, memory and problem solving.”

According to Harvard Health, studies show that older adults who regularly socialize have a better working memory, processing speed and verbal fluency than those who don’t regularly socialize.

It can be intimidating, but here are a few easy ways to be more social:

• Call or FaceTime friends and family members
• Get to know your neighbors
• Join a club
• Volunteer within your community

Tip #5: Keep Your Mind Sharp

According to the Alzheimer’s Association, staying mentally active can help better shield you against injury or brain disease and may help lower your risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia.

“When you use your brain in new and challenging ways, it can help build new connections between your brain cells,” Dr. Diedra Wuenschel says. “Even if it’s just doing the daily Wordle or crossword, engaging your brain for just a few minutes each day can help.”

“In my experience, the residents in our care who have family visiting regularly or who participate in our daily activities tend to retain more information and maintain clearer memories. I’ve also seen that spending time with people they were close to—especially longtime friends—often gives residents a noticeable cognitive boost,” said Coryell Health RehabLiving at the Meadows Administrator Maranda May, LNFA.

Here are a few more easy ways to help engage your brain:

• Trying a new art form
• Playing an instrument
• Learning a new language
• Playing strategy games

Caring for your brain is one of the best investments you can make for your and your family’s future. By sticking to simple habits like the five listed above, you can improve your cognitive functioning and strengthen your brain over time.

If you have a loved one currently living with Alzheimer’s disease or another form of dementia, Coryell Health’s RehabLiving at the Meadows provides compassionate, personalized memory care in a supportive environment. Thanks to a recent grant, we’ll also be providing specialized dementia care training for every member of our RehabLiving team. Call (254) 404-2500 to learn more about RehabLiving at the Meadows and our memory care program.

Meet the Doctors

Dr. Ashley Brindley is an audiologist with over 10 years of experience who earned her associate degree from Victoria College. She then earned her bachelor’s degree and her Doctor of Audiology from the University of North Texas. Dr. Brindley completed her residency at the Central Texas Veterans Health Care System. Certified by the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association, Dr. Brindley is also a member of the Texas Academy of Audiology and a fellow in the American Academy of Audiology. When she’s not helping patients, Dr. Brindley enjoys spending time with her family and volunteering in her community.

Dr. Brian Walton is a board certified interventional cardiologist with over 20 years of experience in general cardiology, interventional cardiology and vascular medicine. He earned his bachelor’s degree from Pittsburg State University and his Doctor of Medicine from the University of Kansas. Dr. Walton has served as the director of cardiovascular imaging and experimental therapeutics at the Texas Heart Institute (THI) and the associate editor of the THI Journal. He is also a member of the American Heart Association and the American College of Cardiology.

Dr. Diedra Wuenschel is a board certified family medicine physician who also serves as the medical authority for Coryell County, the medical director for Coryell Health’s Gatesville and Mills County clinics, the medical director for Coryell Health’s RehabLiving at the Meadows and the elected chief of medical staff for Coryell Health. When she’s not helping patients in Gatesville or Mills County, Dr. Wuenschel enjoys spending time with her husband and children on their farm, helping out at their family-owned restaurant and singing.

Resources

• What is Alzheimer’s Disease? (Alzheimer’s Association)
• Can Alzheimer’s Disease Be Prevented? (Alzheimer’s Association)
• Hearing Loss and the Dementia Connection (Johns Hopkins University)
• Hearing Aids May Slow Dementia Onset (Johns Hopkins University)
• Heart Health is Brain Health (American Brain Foundation)
• What’s Good for the Heart is Good for the Brain (American Heart Association)
• Traumatic Brain Injury (Alzheimer’s Association)
• Traumatic Brain Injury and Alzheimer’s Disease: A Shared Neurovascular Hypothesis (National Institutes of Health)
• Get Back Your Social Life to Boost Thinking, Memory, and Health (Harvard Health)
• Challenge Your Mind (Alzheimer’s Association)

Get a shot now to protect you and your family throughout the holiday season

As the state heads further into respiratory virus season, the Texas Department of State Health Services is encouraging everyone to add flu shots to their Thanksgiving shopping lists. Doses of flu vaccine are widely available at public health clinics, doctor’s offices and pharmacies across Texas.

Cooler weather, holiday gatherings and added travel increase the risk that respiratory viruses like influenza will spread, so public health officials recommend everyone six months of age and older get vaccinated as soon as possible. It takes about two weeks after vaccination for the body to reach peak immunity, so the sooner people get a shot, the sooner they will be protected during the holidays.

“It is especially important for older adults, very young children, people with chronic health conditions and pregnant women to get protection from the flu,” said DSHS Commissioner Jennifer Shuford, MD, MPH. “People in those higher risk groups are more likely to get seriously sick if they do get the flu, and some will inevitably need to be hospitalized and even die from their infections.”

Coryell County Health Authority, Dr. Diedra Wuenschel, family medicine physician and Medical Director of Coryell Health Medical Clinic, echoed the importance of timely vaccination. “Getting your flu shot now is one of the simplest ways to safeguard your health and your loved ones before the busy holiday season,” said Dr. Wuenschel. “By vaccinating early, you’re helping protect not only yourself but also the most vulnerable members of our community.”

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates that influenza caused at least 600,000 hospitalizations in the United States and tens of thousands of deaths last flu season. A 2010 study put the average economic cost of seasonal flu at more than $87 billion a year, or roughly $131 billion adjusted for inflation.

Flu symptoms include fever, headache, body aches, sore throat, cough, fatigue and chills and can last a week or longer. Antiviral drugs available by prescription can make the illness milder and shorter if started within 48 hours of symptoms beginning.

Flu viruses spread mainly by tiny droplets made when people with flu talk, sneeze or cough. People can also get the flu if they touch a surface or object with live virus on it and then touch their mouth, nose or eyes. While the vaccine is the best protection, people can also help stop the flu by covering coughs and sneezes, washing their hands frequently and staying home when sick.

You can contact your doctor, local health department or pharmacy to learn where you can get your flu shot. Monitor the effects of various respiratory viruses statewide and in your region with the Texas Respiratory Illness Interactive Dashboard. For more information about influenza and how to protect against it, visit texasflu.org.

Meet Two of Our New Family Medicine Physicians

Coryell Health is proud to welcome two new family medicine physicians to our Waco clinic and our Gatesville clinic in Building 2: Dr. Amy Chung and Dr. Shrey Goel! Learn about their backgrounds, what inspired them to pursue family medicine and more in their interviews below. 

Dr. Amy Chung, MD

Family Medicine

 

Tell us about your background.

I grew up in California, but I moved to Texas to attend Texas A&M for both college and medical school (whoop!). Then, I went to Waco Family Medicine for residency, where I served as chief resident. I’ve been in practice for about three years now.

 

Where are you practicing for Coryell Health?

I’ll be practicing at the Waco clinic and the Gatesville clinic in Building 2.

 

What made you want to go into family medicine?

During my second year of medical school, one of my mentors was a family medicine physician. In our first visits together, she actually had a whole family come in, from the children to the grandparents. I loved the concept of being able to learn about the whole family and provide continuing care throughout their whole lives.

What’s your philosophy regarding practicing medicine & treating patients?

We can read textbooks and learn good medicine all we want, but it really comes down to learning about the patient, their lifestyle and their goals. Without getting to know the patient, we can practice medicine, but it won’t be the most effective treatment.

What are the most common issues you treat?

In family medicine, I get a little bit of everything and cater to patients of all ages. I see acute and chronic conditions, mental health struggles and even end-of-life discussions.

Dr. Shrey Goel, MD

Family Medicine

 

Tell us about your background.

I was born in the Canadian city of Winnipeg, Manitoba. As a child, I moved to the United States and have lived in a few different states, but I completed my medical school training at the University of Arizona in Tucson. After medical school, I came to Waco, where I underwent residency training at Waco Family Medicine. During residency, I had the privilege of serving as one of the chief residents for the program with my colleague and friend, Dr. Amy Chung.

Where are you practicing for Coryell Health?

I’ll be practicing at the Waco clinic and the Gatesville clinic in Building 2.

What made you want to go into family medicine?

Throughout my education and career after my undergraduate studies, I had several really significant mentors in my life who happened to be family medicine doctors. I feel like I just kept receiving the message that family medicine was the path for me. When I entered medical school, I was pretty set on pursuing family medicine, and I kept having experiences that affirmed that choice.

What’s your philosophy regarding practicing medicine & treating patients?

My overall philosophy can be summed up by a very common phrase we use in medicine: “shared decision-making.” To me, it represents learning with and from your patients. Patients have a lot going on in their lives that affects the efficacy of different treatment plans, so I try to learn about their lives, the barriers and challenges they face that might affect treatment plans and come to the best decision with them about medical management.

What are the most common issues you treat?

The most common conditions I deal with are chronic conditions like hypertension, diabetes and coronary artery disease. I also treat acute complaints, musculoskeletal aches and pains and joint problems. The process of treating a painful joint involves really understanding which part of the joint is hurting, and that requires conversation, keeping track of medical history and a relationship over time to understand and find the right treatment option. I’m really passionate about caring for all ages, whether it’s babies, adolescents, adults or older adults.

Call (254) 248-6401 to schedule your appointment with Dr. Amy Chung or Dr. Shrey Goel at our Waco clinic and Gatesville clinic in Building 2 today.