Author: Julian Herrera
Alarming Alzheimer’s Rates in Starr County, Texas: Unpacking the Causes and Prevention Strategies Texas has recently been highlighted for having some of the highest rates of Alzheimer’s disease in the United States, with Starr County emerging as a particularly concerning hotspot. Here, we will dive into the alarming statistics, potential underlying causes, and strategies for reducing your risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease. Image Credit: Halfpoint Images/Getty Images Understanding Alzheimer’s Disease Alzheimer’s is a chronic neurodegenerative disease that primarily affects older adults, damaging memory, thinking, and behavior to the extent that daily life becomes challenging. Current treatments may slow disease progression,…
Are You an Outstanding Nurse? The Vital Role of Nurses at South Texas Health System Nursing is more than just a profession; it is a calling that demands compassion, commitment, and a high level of skill. At the South Texas Health System, a network comprising 12 facilities, nurses serve as the backbone of healthcare delivery, ensuring high-quality, compassionate care for patients. This article explores the essential contributions of nurses in South Texas and what it takes to be a part of this esteemed team. The Importance of Nurses in Healthcare Role of Nurses in Patient Care Nurses are critical in…
A New Era in Medical Education: UH and DHR Health Establish Collaborative Center Introduction In a significant advancement for healthcare education and access in South Texas, the University of Houston (UH) has joined forces with the DHR Health Hospital System. Together, they announced the formation of The University of Houston Tilman J. Fertitta Family College of Medicine and the DHR Health Medical Research and Education Center. This initiative is backed by a $15 million state appropriation and aims to address the pressing healthcare challenges faced by the Rio Grande Valley, one of Texas’s most medically underserved areas. Major Partnership Expands…
New Medical Research and Education Center to Empower the Rio Grande Valley Houston – A significant collaboration was announced today between the University of Houston and DHR Health Hospital System, marking a transformative step in healthcare for the Rio Grande Valley. They are set to establish the University of Houston Tilman J. Fertitta Family College of Medicine and DHR Health Medical Research and Education Center. This initiative is bolstered by a $15 million state appropriation, aiming to enhance medical research, education, and access to quality healthcare in one of Texas’ most underserved regions. The Purpose of the New Center The…
DHR Health’s Neuroscience Institute Achieves Comprehensive MS Center Status Introduction: A Milestone for the Rio Grande Valley DHR Health proudly announces that its Multiple Sclerosis (MS) Center has attained the prestigious designation of a Comprehensive MS Center from the National Multiple Sclerosis Society. This achievement makes it the only center in the Rio Grande Valley (RGV) to receive such recognition. Prior to this momentous occasion, the closest Comprehensive MS Center was located in San Antonio. This critical advancement marks a significant improvement in access to specialized neurological care in an area that has long been regarded as medically underserved. Improving…
The Crisis of Uninsured Healthcare in Starr County, Texas Understanding the Healthcare Landscape in Rural Communities Located on the southern border of the United States, Starr County, Texas, showcases a healthcare system under tremendous strain. As one of the poorest areas in the nation, with nearly a third of its population living below the poverty line, the community is witnessing unprecedented challenges. The local health providers are overwhelmed with patients, many of whom lack insurance and have limited access to care. The Reality of Emergency Care Dr. Jake Margo Jr., a family medicine physician at Starr County Memorial Hospital, highlights…
The Medical Crisis Amid Immigration Enforcement in the Rio Grande Valley The Rio Grande Valley, known for its vibrant culture and close-knit communities, faces a growing healthcare crisis as immigration enforcement intensifies. Families like Juanita’s are grappling with the implications of increased deportation activity, forcing many to forgo essential medical care. Fear and Healthcare: A Dangerous Mix Juanita, a 41-year-old mother who emigrated from Mexico over two decades ago, embodies the struggles countless residents face today. Married to an American carpenter, her life took a turn when she encountered a severe medical dilemma last month. As she was preparing to…
South Texas Health System: Your Trusted Healthcare Network in the Rio Grande Valley In the heart of the Rio Grande Valley, the South Texas Health System (STHS) stands out as a beacon of quality healthcare, boasting an extensive network comprising 12 integrated facilities. This commitment to compassionate care ensures that residents receive exceptional medical services tailored to their needs. Commitment to Quality Care A Legacy of Excellence Recognized nationally for its quality of care, the South Texas Health System is dedicated to advancing healthcare practices and providing the best outcomes for its patients. By employing state-of-the-art technology and innovative techniques,…
Empowering Women After Breast Cancer: A Celebration of Reconstructive Surgery At the Heart of Healing: Dr. Ali Kilic’s Impact on Breast Reconstruction The annual DHR Health Fashion Show & Gala, held on October 15 at the Edinburg Conference Center at Renaissance, was more than a mere event; it was a celebration of resilience, courage, and empowerment. This year’s theme, “A Celebration of Strength, Courage, and Empowerment,” focused on honoring breast cancer survivors and the medical professionals who help them reclaim their lives. Among those lauded was Dr. Ali Kilic, a dedicated Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeon and Hand Surgeon at DHR…
Fear and Health Care: The Challenges Facing Immigrants in the Rio Grande Valley Understanding the Fear of Seeking Medical Care In rural Weslaco, Texas, many families are grappling with a dual challenge: the necessity of medical care and the looming threat of deportation. For individuals like Juanita, a 41-year-old mother from Mexico, every outing is a calculated risk. After living in the United States for over two decades, she has witnessed the tightening grip of immigration enforcement policies under the Trump administration, making even a trip to the pharmacy fraught with peril. With her prediabetic condition and the responsible care…