InterCommunity Health Care News

A Message from Tyler Booth, InterCommunity's New President and CEO

Wed, 01 Apr 2026 13:53:31 GMT

Dear InterCommunity Staff and Community Partners,

It is a privilege to assume the role of President & CEO and to lead InterCommunity during such a significant period for the nation's healthcare system. My experience over the past twenty years with many of you has highlighted that our core strength is derived not only from clinical expertise but also from the compassion, dedication, and teamwork that characterize our culture.

To our staff: Thank you for being truly mission driven. Each patient you assist, every challenge you meet, and all innovations you adopt significantly impacts the lives of those who rely on our care. I am committed to actively listening, learning, and collaborating with you to ensure that you have the necessary tools, support, and recognition to thrive.

To our community partners: Your collaboration is vital to achieving our shared vision of healthier and stronger communities. Together, we will strive to enhance access, improve outcomes, and address the evolving needs of those we serve. I look forward to strengthening our partnerships and exploring new opportunities for collective meaningful impact. This leadership transition presents a chance to build on our achievements, welcome innovation, and shape the future of care with integrity and excellence.

I am truly grateful for the opportunity to embark on the journey ahead alongside all of you.

With great appreciation,

Tyler V.R. Booth, LCSW

InterCommunity President and Chief Executive Officer

Chronic Kidney Disease: The Hidden Health Threat

Mon, 23 Mar 2026 20:43:59 GMT

“Chronic kidney disease (CKD) remains one of the most serious long-term complications affecting our patient population at InterCommunity,” stated Dr. Zachary Steinbach, Medical Lead at InterCommunity Health Care. “Often called a 'silent' condition, CKD can progress for years without causing noticeable symptoms. Unfortunately, by the time symptoms appear, the disease is often in its most advanced stages.”

Advanced CKD can lead to severe health consequences, including cardiovascular disease, fluid overload, and the need for dialysis or a kidney transplant. According to national health data, millions of Americans are living with CKD — and many are unaware they have it.

Risk factors include diabetes, high blood pressure, obesity, and a family history of kidney disease. Given this, our recent focus at InterCommunity has been closing the diabetes care gap to help prevent these outcomes. Early intervention — through blood pressure control, blood sugar management, and healthy lifestyle choices — can significantly slow disease progression.

At InterCommunity, we are committed to raising awareness, promoting early detection, and supporting patients in managing their kidney health. If you or anyone you know needs assistance with diabetes, contact InterCommunity at 860-569-5900.

Epilepsy Affects Millions — Here’s What You Should Know

Mon, 23 Mar 2026 20:36:39 GMT

Epilepsy is more common than many people realize and is often misunderstood. It is a neurological disease that affects the central nervous system and is marked by recurring seizures. These seizures occur when clusters of nerve cells in the brain send out abnormal electrical signals, briefly disrupting the brain’s usual rhythm and activity. Depending on the area of the brain involved, seizures can look very different, from brief lapses in awareness or staring spells to full-body convulsions.

A diagnosis of epilepsy is typically made when a person has two or more unprovoked seizures, a single seizure with a high likelihood of recurrence, or when a specific epilepsy syndrome is identified. The International League Against Epilepsy (ILAE) classifies epilepsy as a disease rather than a disorder, underscoring its seriousness and the importance of timely, appropriate care.

Epilepsy can develop at any age and has many possible causes, including genetics, brain injury, stroke, infection, or developmental conditions, though in many cases the exact cause is unknown. While seizures can be frightening, epilepsy is often manageable. Medications help control seizures in about two-thirds of people, and other treatments such as specialized diets, nerve stimulation, or surgery may be effective when medication alone is not enough.

Globally, epilepsy affects an estimated 50 million people, roughly 1 in every 100 individuals. Yet stigma and misunderstanding remain significant challenges. Learning seizure first aid, supporting ongoing research, and advocating for accessible, affordable treatment can all make a meaningful difference. With greater awareness comes greater compassion and a clearer path to improving the lives of those affected.

Aid for Seizures

Watching someone have a convulsive seizure can be unsettling, but knowing what to do can make all the difference. During this type of seizure, a person may lose consciousness and fall. The body often becomes stiff at first, followed by rhythmic jerking or twitching of the arms and legs. Recovery can take several minutes, and the person may feel confused or exhausted afterward.

Here’s how you can help safely and effectively:

Stay calm. Your steady presence matters more than you think.
Protect from injury. Gently guide them away from danger and clear the area of sharp or hard objects.
Ease them onto their side as the seizure subsides. This helps keep the airway clear and allows fluids to drain.
Do not put anything in their mouth. It is a myth that someone can swallow their tongue.
Do not restrain their movements. Let the seizure run its course.
Avoid food or drink until they are fully alert and able to swallow safely.
Time the seizure. Most seizures end within a few minutes. Call emergency services if it lasts longer than five minutes, if seizures happen back-to-back, or if the person is injured, pregnant, or has diabetes.
Stay with them until they are fully awake and aware. Offer reassurance as they recover.

Learning these simple steps can turn a moment of fear into one of support and safety. For more information about epilepsy and seizure first aid, visit the Epilepsy Foundation at www.epilepsy.com .

Extended Outpatient Program (EOP) for Mental Health Services

Fri, 27 Feb 2026 15:00:25 GMT

InterCommunity’s South Windsor Clinic launched its Extended Outpatient Program (EOP) on January 27, 2026, in response to a clear and growing demand for a higher level of accessible mental health care. EOP is suitable for clients who need to work, attend school, and have ongoing family obligations, and want to re-engage in care or are looking to maintain long-term accountability.

EOP is designed for individuals requiring more support than traditional outpatient therapy, in that it's an elevated outpatient experience for exploring and addressing substance use disorders and the underlying issues that fuel behavioral health issues. EOP provides structured yet flexible support, including weekly group therapy and access to mental health and medical support.

Program Manager Maria Bye explains that EOP “bridges the gap between InterCommunity’s different levels of care and outpatient treatment, which allows patients to maintain work or school commitments while receiving structured therapeutic support.” The expansion is expected to serve an additional twelve plus patients per month.

InterCommunity’s South Windsor Clinic will now offer daytime sessions, evening group sessions, telehealth check-ins, and individual therapy.

Bye says, “The response to the Extended Outpatient Program has been very positive from our clients and community partners. Community partners appreciate having an additional referral option, and clients report feeling more supported, connected, and accountable.”

If you or someone you know could benefit from an Extended Outpatient Program, please call InterCommunity at (860) 569-5900 ext. 635 or visit www.intercommunityct.org .

Prioritizing Rest for Better Health and Performance

Fri, 27 Feb 2026 14:52:16 GMT

In today’s fast-paced environment, sleep is often sacrificed in the interest of productivity. In reality, adequate rest is a foundational component of overall health and performance. With Sleep Awareness Week taking place from March 8 to 14, it is an appropriate time to reflect on the critical role sleep plays in our daily lives.

“Adequate sleep plays a central role in maintaining a healthy lifestyle,” stated Dr. Zachary Steinbach, Medical Lead at InterCommunity Health Care. “It supports brain function, metabolic regulation, cardiovascular health, and immune system activity. During deep and REM sleep, the brain consolidates memory, clears metabolic waste, and stabilizes mood‑regulating pathways, while the body fine-tunes hormone balance involved in appetite, glucose control, and stress response. Chronic sleep loss can increase the risk of hypertension, insulin resistance, weight gain, and impaired immune defense.”

Most adults require seven to nine hours of quality sleep each night. Maintaining a consistent sleep schedule, limiting caffeine later in the day, reducing screen exposure before bedtime, and creating a cool, dark, and quiet sleep environment can significantly improve sleep quality.

Sleep disorders are conditions that disrupt healthy sleep patterns. They often show up as persistent trouble falling or staying asleep, loud snoring, gasping during sleep, extreme daytime fatigue, or unusual movements or behaviors at night. If these issues are ongoing or affecting daily life, it’s important to speak with a healthcare professional who can evaluate what’s going on and guide next steps. If you or anyone you know needs assistance with a sleep disorder, contact InterCommunity at 860-569-5900.

Welcoming Jim Kelly as InterCommunity’s New Board Chair

Thu, 22 Jan 2026 14:33:23 GMT

InterCommunity is proud to welcome Jim Kelly as the new Chair of the Board of Directors. Jim was officially sworn into the role on December 5, 2025, during InterCommunity’s Annual Meeting, marking an important moment of leadership transition for the organization.

Jim brings more than two decades of public service experience to InterCommunity. A retired Assistant Attorney General, he spent 25 years representing the Connecticut Department of Children and Families in Juvenile Court, advocating for the safety, stability, and well-being of children and families. His career reflects a deep commitment to justice, accountability, and compassion—values that closely align with InterCommunity’s mission to provide whole-person care for all.

Equally important to Jim’s leadership is his personal connection to InterCommunity’s work. He has been in long-term recovery for more than 40 years and remains actively engaged in the recovery community. This lived experience brings a powerful perspective to his role as Board Chair, grounding governance decisions in empathy, understanding, and respect for the recovery journey.

“I’m deeply grateful for the opportunity to serve as Board Chair at InterCommunity. This organization’s commitment to compassionate, whole-person care is close to my heart, and I’m honored to support its mission alongside such dedicated staff, board members, and community partners,” Jim Kelly shared.

Jim and his wife live in Manchester, where he continues to be an advocate for community-based solutions that strengthen individuals and families. As Board Chair, he is committed to supporting InterCommunity’s staff, leadership, and partners as the organization continues to expand access to integrated primary care, mental health, and substance use services across the region.

InterCommunity is grateful for Jim’s willingness to serve and looks forward to the leadership, insight, and steady guidance he will bring in the years ahead.

Cold Weather Can Be Dangerous—Here’s How to Stay Safe This Winter

Wed, 21 Jan 2026 14:31:01 GMT

Winter in Connecticut can be beautiful—but extreme cold can also be dangerous, especially for your heart and overall health. When temperatures drop, the body works harder to stay warm. Blood vessels tighten to keep heat in, which can raise blood pressure and heart rate. According to the American Heart Association , cold weather can increase the risk of heart attacks, especially for people with existing heart conditions.

Cold weather can also make everyday activities riskier. Simple tasks like shoveling snow or walking through heavy snow can put sudden strain on the heart. Many people are not used to this kind of physical effort, which makes injuries and medical emergencies more likely.

Another serious risk is hypothermia, which happens when the body temperature drops below 95°F. Hypothermia can cause confusion, slow reactions, poor coordination, and extreme tiredness. It can be life-threatening. Older adults and children are especially at risk because they may not notice the warning signs or be able to ask for help. Wind, snow, and wet clothing can make the body lose heat even faster.

Simple Steps Can Protect Your Health

There are ways to stay safer during cold weather:

Dress in warm layers to trap heat
Wear a hat, gloves, and warm socks
Take breaks when shoveling snow
Avoid drinking alcohol before or after being outdoors
Pay attention to how your body feels
Call 911 right away if you feel chest pain, dizziness, or shortness of breath

If you have heart disease or other medical conditions, talk to a healthcare provider before doing strenuous activities in the cold.

InterCommunity Is Here for You

“Winter can be especially challenging for many in our community,” said Dr. Chad McDonald, Chief Medical Officer at InterCommunity. “No one should feel they have to manage their health alone. At InterCommunity, we’re here to provide accessible, whole-person care—whether that means managing ongoing health needs, addressing new symptoms, or helping patients stay safe and supported throughout the winter season.”

Getting care early can prevent serious problems. If you or someone you love has concerns this winter, don’t wait—complete the outpatient self-referral form and connect with expert care close to home.

Where Do We Go From Here?

Fri, 16 Jan 2026 15:05:47 GMT

A Message from Kimberly L. Beauregard, LCSW, President & Chief Executive Officer, InterCommunity Health Care

As I reflect on the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., I am more convinced than ever that, amid the challenges facing our community and our world, Dr. King’s vision and moral leadership matter more than ever. His “I Have a Dream” speech remains a timeless call to end racial discrimination and to realize the full potential of our nation. At its heart is a simple but enduring truth: that people should be judged by the content of their character, not the color of their skin, and that justice denied anywhere threatens justice everywhere.

As a leader in healthcare, I am grateful to serve within an organization whose values align so closely with that vision. Dr. King’s words remind me that healthcare is not only about diagnosing illness or prescribing treatment. It is about dignity, compassion, equity, and respect for the whole person. I am proud to lead with an unwavering commitment to health equity and to ensure that compassion guides every interaction and decision we make. Dr. King captured this responsibility powerfully when he said, “Of all the forms of inequality, injustice in health is the most shocking and inhumane because it often results in physical death.” This truth continues to shape our work and our resolve.

Dr. King’s final book, Where Do We Go From Here: Chaos or Community?, still challenges us to look beyond the walls of our clinics and hospitals and confront the social and systemic barriers that impact health, including access to safe housing, quality education, and economic opportunity. At InterCommunity, we reaffirm our commitment to fulfilling Dr. King’s dream by advancing health equity, standing firmly against injustice, and ensuring that every person has access to compassionate, high-quality care, regardless of race, income, or background. Inspired by his legacy, we strive to listen more closely, serve more humbly, and act more boldly in pursuit of a healthier and more equitable future for all.

Today, and every day going forward, I encourage each of us to reflect on how we can advance Dr. King’s vision, not only in our words but also in our deeds and interactions with clients, colleagues, and communities. Together, we can make his dream of justice, peace, and equality a living reality.

Small Acts That Mean Everything

Fri, 19 Dec 2025 15:07:24 GMT

On December 18, InterCommunity was honored to once again partner with Steven’s Stockings for a day rooted in compassion, dignity, and hope. Backpacks filled with self-care essentials, warm clothing, and recreational items were distributed to InterCommunity clients and community members impacted by mental illness, addiction, or homelessness—small gestures with a powerful message: you are seen, you are valued, and you are not alone.

Steven’s Stockings was created in memory of Steven Sienkiewicz, whose life was shaped by both addiction and progressive mental illness. Steven believed deeply that everyone deserves a second chance—or a third, or a tenth—whatever it takes. Though he is no longer here to build the safe, welcoming space he dreamed of, his spirit lives on through this program. Each backpack shared on December 18 carried not only essential items, but also acknowledgement, acceptance, and emotional support—the heart of Steven’s vision and the mission of Steven’s Stockings.

The relationship between Steven’s Stockings and InterCommunity began unexpectedly on Christmas Eve in 2016. After delivering gifts to shelters across Hartford, the Steven’s Stockings team found themselves with remaining backpacks and no destination. A family connection led them to Coventry House, one of InterCommunity’s recovery programs. When they knocked on the door, they were met with warmth, gratitude, and open arms. What began as a spontaneous stop became the start of a deeply meaningful partnership—one that has grown stronger each year.

“InterCommunity holds a very special place in our hearts. From that first unexpected visit years ago, we felt an immediate sense of warmth, respect, and shared purpose," said Marie Sienkiewicz, President of Steven's Stockings. "Each December, when we return, we are reminded that recovery is built on connection, compassion, and believing in people—exactly the values Steven carried with him and that InterCommunity lives every day.”

Since that first visit, Steven’s Stockings has returned annually to InterCommunity, delivering backpacks to clients at every stage of recovery. Beyond the items themselves, the December gatherings have become moments of connection—opportunities to meet clients and staff, share Steven’s story, and honor the strength and courage it takes to keep moving forward on the path to recovery.

This year’s December 18 distribution was a powerful reminder of what is possible when compassion meets community. Through Steven’s Stockings, InterCommunity clients were reminded that their journeys matter, their resilience is recognized, and their future is worth investing in. Together, InterCommunity and Steven’s Stockings continue to carry Steven’s legacy forward—one backpack, one conversation, and one moment of hope at a time.

Supporting Families Through the Season of Giving

Tue, 16 Dec 2025 17:11:09 GMT

Just before Thanksgiving, InterCommunity’s School-Based Health Center (SBHC) team helped ensure that families in East Hartford could enjoy a warm, complete holiday meal. On November 19 and November 21, the SBHC team partnered with Connecticut Foodshare to host two Thanksgiving food drives at Mayberry Elementary School—our only school site with a permanent food pantry. Thanks to this coordinated effort, more than 20 families received full Thanksgiving dinners, bringing comfort and stability during a time when many face increased financial strain.

These events showcased the heart of our mission and the dedication of our staff. We extend heartfelt gratitude to SBHC Coordinator Guadalupe Ferreyra for identifying families in need, to our Facilities Team for transporting and distributing meals, and to SBHC Practice Manager Jessica Russell for managing logistics and leading the collaboration with Connecticut Foodshare. Their compassion and teamwork ensured that support reached the families who needed it most.

This year’s holiday season also underscored a growing concern: the recent government shutdown and resulting loss of SNAP benefits for many households. As families suddenly faced gaps in essential resources, InterCommunity recognized the urgent need to strengthen our role in combating food insecurity—not only within our programs but across the community at large.

In response, InterCommunity is expanding its food support efforts. In addition to maintaining the School-Based Health Center food pantry at Mayberry Elementary School, InterCommunity will now work more closely with local food pantries to help stock shelves, provide financial support, and ensure that food access remains steady for vulnerable residents. Several InterCommunity sites will soon host food drop-off locations, making it easier for staff, partners, and supporters to contribute.

We also invite donors to make a direct impact by giving to the IC Food Pantry Fund, which helps us purchase essential items and respond quickly to emerging needs. Together, we can make sure families struggling with food insecurity are met with compassion, dignity, and dependable support—during the holidays and all year long.

To support our efforts, visit our donation page and select “IC Food Pantry” under support designation.

You’re Not Alone This Holiday Season

Mon, 08 Dec 2025 20:26:37 GMT

While the holidays are often portrayed as a season filled with joy, connection, and celebration, the reality can look very different for many individuals and families. Beneath the bright lights, busy schedules, and expectations to feel cheerful, a significant number of people face emotional challenges that intensify this time of year. Stress, grief, loneliness, financial strain, and seasonal changes can all contribute to what is commonly known as holiday depression—and it affects far more people than we often acknowledge.

According to the American Psychological Association’s 2023 Stress in America survey , 41% of U.S. adults report their stress increases during the holiday season compared to other times of the year. Much of this stress is tied to increased responsibilities, financial pressure, and the expectation to participate in social gatherings even when individuals feel emotionally drained. Nearly half of adults report missing loved ones or experiencing grief, a reminder that the holidays can amplify feelings of loss. A 2025 AARP study found that 40% of adults aged 45 and older report feeling lonely, and these feelings often intensify this time of year. Grief, distance from loved ones, and unmet expectations can make the season feel even heavier.

For those living with mental health conditions, the season can be especially difficult. A survey by the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) found that 64% of people with mental health conditions reported their symptoms worsened around the holidays—a finding reaffirmed by SAMHSA in 2023. For many, the pressure to appear “happy” makes it even harder to share how they are truly feeling.

Our Chief Medical Officer, Dr. Chad McDonald, emphasizes the importance of awareness, compassion, and support during this time. “Behind the holiday lights and pressures to be 'joyous', many are struggling in silence—when more than 60% of those with mental health conditions have worse symptoms," he states. "It’s important to remind each other that help is not just available—it’s essential.”

At InterCommunity, we want our community to know that they do not have to face these challenges alone. We encourage everyone to take small steps to protect their well-being—whether that means setting boundaries, making time for rest, honoring grief, or reaching out to trusted friends and family. And for those who need additional support, our behavioral health services are here to help, offering counseling, crisis intervention, and a safe space to talk.

This year, let’s give ourselves—and others—permission to slow down, set boundaries, and reach out for support. Emotional health is health, and taking care of it is one of the most meaningful gifts we can offer.

If you or someone you know needs support, please call InterCommunity at (860) 569-5900 or visit www.intercommunityct.org . For urgent needs, dial 988 for the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.

Light Up the Night: A Celebration of Community, Generosity, and Hope

Wed, 19 Nov 2025 16:43:07 GMT

On Friday, November 14, InterCommunity Health Care and friends came together for our largest Gala yet — Light Up the Night: Shining a Light on Whole-Person Health Care. It was a memorable evening filled with connection, joy, and an extraordinary display of community generosity.

Thanks to the incredible support of our donors, sponsors, and guests, we are proud to share that we raised $130,000 to expand access to physical health, mental health services, addiction recovery, and whole-person wellness across Greater Hartford.

A very special thank-you to our Title Sponsor, Reid & Riege Attorneys, whose partnership and commitment helped make this unforgettable evening possible. We are also deeply grateful to our Gold Sponsors — ShopRite and Waverly Markets — for their outstanding generosity. And to all our additional sponsors who contributed at every level, thank you for standing with us and investing in stronger, healthier communities.

The night was expertly guided by Renee DiNino, whose warmth and humor kept the program on track while bringing plenty of laughter to the room. Her presence made the entire evening feel welcoming and joyful. We also thank Latanya Farrell, whose powerful performances energized the crowd and set the tone for a night of celebration and connection.

One of the most meaningful moments of the evening was honoring our 2025 Awardees, three remarkable champions of community wellness and equity:

Joel Cruz Jr., Executive Director of Urban Alliance
Meghan Blanchette, Founder of Fiercely Meghan LLC and Area Coach & Artist Team Member at Sport Clips Haircuts
JoAnn Price, Co-Founder of Fairview Capital

Their leadership and service continue to inspire the work we do every day.

Throughout the night, the atmosphere was filled with gratitude — especially from our President & CEO, Kimberly L. Beauregard, who shared heartfelt appreciation with guests. She reminded us that “every contribution, every sponsor, every volunteer, every guest helped light up the night with generosity. Because of you, more families will receive the care, dignity, and hope they deserve.” Her words echoed the spirit of the evening and the collective power of community commitment.

Finally, we extend special thanks to the InterCommunity staff members who volunteered their time and talent. Their teamwork behind the scenes ensured a seamless, uplifting, and truly memorable event.

Light Up the Night was more than a gala — it was a celebration of compassion in action, and a joyful reminder of what we can achieve when our community comes together with purpose.

Helping Our Community Breathe Easier

Mon, 17 Nov 2025 16:22:42 GMT

At InterCommunity Health Care, we understand that quitting smoking is a significant step toward improving overall health. Our team is committed to providing comprehensive, individualized support throughout every stage of the journey.

Smoking cessation visits are treated as personalized substance use treatment sessions—called nicotine replacement visits—where healthcare providers work with patients to develop tailored quit plans, monitor progress, and adjust interventions as needed.

Patients have access to a range of nicotine replacement therapies (NRTs), including patches, lozenges, and gum. Combination therapy is also an option for those who may need additional support. Between appointments, nursing staff provide ongoing encouragement, monitor progress, and help fine-tune treatments to ensure patients stay on track.

InterCommunity’s tobacco cessation intervention rate of 95.1% is more than 10 percentage points higher than the national average for HRSA Look-Alikes—placing us in the top tier nationally. This achievement reflects our commitment to proactive, integrated care and behavioral health coordination.

“Every cigarette someone doesn’t smoke is a victory for their health,” says Dr. Chad McDonald, Chief Medical Officer. “We know quitting is hard, but we also know it’s possible—and our patients prove it every day. We’re here to walk with them every step of the way.”

If you or someone you know is ready to quit smoking or vaping, we invite you to contact InterCommunity by calling (860) 569-5900 or using our referral form by CLICKING HERE . Together, we can take the first step toward a healthier future.

Seeing Clearly: InterCommunity Helps Patients Manage Diabetes

Tue, 04 Nov 2025 15:22:20 GMT

Diabetes can affect many parts of your body — even your eyes. It can cause a serious condition called diabetic retinopathy, which can lead to blindness if not caught early.

At InterCommunity Health Care, we make it easier for you to stay healthy and protect your vision. We can take a quick picture of the back of your eye at our clinic using a special camera called Luminetics. Most people don’t even need dilating drops. It’s fast, simple, and can help prevent vision loss.

Our team is proud to be recognized as a National Quality Leader in Diabetes Health by HRSA. In 2024, only 22.6% of InterCommunity patients with diabetes had poorly controlled A1c levels — that’s 20% better than the national average.

These results show that when you choose InterCommunity, you’re choosing a team that cares and delivers results. We’re here to help you take control of your diabetes — one checkup, one conversation, and one healthy choice at a time.

“Too often, people in our community put their health last because of barriers like cost, time, or access," said Chad McDonald, InterCommunity's Chief Medical Officer. "At InterCommunity, we want everyone to know that diabetes doesn’t have to take control of your life. With the right care and support, you can stay healthy, protect your vision, and live well. We’re here to make sure that care is within reach for everyone.”

If you have diabetes, ask your provider about your A1c test and your yearly eye scan — both available right here at InterCommunity. Make your appointment today by calling (860) 569-5900 or CLICK HERE to use our online referral.

Don’t Skip Your Flu Shot—Protect Your Family, Protect Our Community

Fri, 17 Oct 2025 14:38:25 GMT

Last year’s flu season was one of the worst in more than ten years. Thousands of people were hospitalized, and sadly, 280 children across the country lost their lives. Here in Connecticut, only about half of adults got the flu shot. That means too many families were left unprotected.

Dr. Chad McDonald, our Chief Medical Officer at InterCommunity, puts it simply:

“With over 280 children lost and hospitalizations at a 10-year high, last flu season proved one thing: skipping your shot isn’t just risky—it’s deadly for you and the community.”

This year, getting your flu shot matters more than ever—especially for people in communities like ours. The Connecticut Department of Public Health notes that neighborhood poverty is associated with lower flu vaccination rates, even as overall rates improve statewide. And according to Connecticut’s Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program, Black and Brown residents are less likely to receive recommended vaccines. These disparities mean that communities of color in Greater Hartford are at higher risk for serious illness from the flu, especially when combined with other health challenges like asthma, diabetes, or heart disease.

At InterCommunity, we’re working to close that gap. Our clinics make flu shots easy, affordable, and accessible for everyone. When you get vaccinated, you’re not just protecting yourself—you’re protecting your neighbors, elders, and children.

This fall, let’s look out for each other. Roll up your sleeve. Get your flu shot. Protect yourself, protect your family, and protect your community.

Light Up the Night: An Evening to Give Back

Wed, 15 Oct 2025 16:22:06 GMT

Mark your calendars for Friday, November 14, 2025 —because this year’s Light Up the Night Gala will be bigger and brighter than ever! For the first time, our signature event will be held at the Connecticut Convention Center in Downtown Hartford, giving us the space to welcome more friends, partners, and supporters than ever before.

This isn’t just a fancy night out (though we promise there will be delicious food, dancing, and fun)! Light Up the Night is about something much deeper: coming together to ensure that everyone in our community has access to the care they need—be it physical care, mental health services, addiction recovery, or wellness programs. Every ticket purchased, every table sponsored, and every dollar raised goes directly toward expanding care for children, families, and neighbors across Greater Hartford and beyond.

What to Expect

Guests will enjoy:

Cocktail hour & time to connect with new and old friends.
A delicious dinner.
Live entertainment & dancing.
A silent auction with some truly one-of-a-kind items.
Inspiring stories and an awards ceremony honoring local leaders making an impact.

We are also thrilled to welcome Renee DiNino , local media personality and Director of Community Affairs at WFSB Channel 3, as this year’s Gala emcee. Renee has a gift for connecting with people and spotlighting the good happening in our communities—you’ll love the warmth and energy she brings to the evening.

Honoring Our Partners

We couldn’t have pulled off this event without the generosity of our supporters. A special shout-out to our Title Sponsor, Reid & Riege Attorneys, and all of our wonderful sponsors and supporters. Your support helps us keep our mission alive.

“Our donors are more than supporters—they’re true partners in our mission. Every contribution reflects a belief in our work and a shared commitment to building a healthier, more connected community. I’m deeply grateful for the trust our donors place in InterCommunity, because their generosity makes it possible for us to expand care and change lives every day,” said Venton B. Forbes, Vice President of Community Integration and Impact at InterCommunity.

Why It Matters

InterCommunity began as a small nonprofit offering behavioral health services. Today, we have more than 350 employees providing a full range of care that uplifts thousands of lives each year. But here’s the truth: the need is greater than ever. And that’s why this Gala matters.

“For more than two decades, I’ve seen firsthand InterCommunity’s impact on families across Greater Hartford. What makes this work so meaningful is knowing that we’re not just providing care—we’re providing hope, dignity, and belonging,” said Kimberly L. Beauregard, President & Chief Executive Officer at InterCommunity. “Our gala is a reminder that when we come together as a community, we can ensure that everyone, regardless of circumstance, has access to the care they deserve.”

By showing up—by buying a ticket, sponsoring a table, bidding at the silent auction—you’re doing more than enjoying a great night out. You’re helping us keep our promise: to provide high-quality, affordable healthcare to everyone who walks through our doors, no matter their circumstances.

So, let’s come together on November 14 to celebrate, laugh, dance, and—most importantly—make a difference. We can’t wait to see you there.

To purchase your tickets today or learn more about sponsorship opportunities, visit the gala website at:

https://give.classy.org/ICGala2025

Help us Light Up the Night!

Early Detection Saves Lives: Breast Cancer Awareness at InterCommunity

Tue, 14 Oct 2025 20:27:00 GMT

Breast cancer is the most common cancer among women in the United States—and in Connecticut, the numbers are especially alarming. Our state has the second-highest rate of new breast cancer cases in the nation, with nearly 4,000 women expected to be diagnosed this year and more than 400 lives lost. That means, on average, one woman dies every single day in Connecticut from a disease that is often preventable through early detection, according to the Connecticut Department of Public Health (DPH).

DPH’s Breast and Cervical Cancer Early Detection Program notes that Black women in Connecticut are more likely to die from breast and cervical cancer than any other racial or ethnic group, and Latina women face higher rates of late diagnosis—when treatment is more difficult and survival rates drop. These disparities remind us why access to timely screenings is so critical. While InterCommunity Health Care does not provide mammograms on-site, our providers and Care Coordinators make it a priority to connect patients to screening before they even leave our clinic. From writing referrals to scheduling appointments, we walk alongside our patients every step of the way to ensure no one misses this vital opportunity.

Why screenings are important:

Mammograms can detect breast cancer years before symptoms appear, when treatment is most successful.
National guidelines recommend women ages 40 to 74 get screened every one to two years, though some women at higher risk may need earlier or more frequent testing.
Most insurance plans cover mammograms at no cost, and for those without coverage, programs like Connecticut’s Breast and Cervical Cancer Early Detection Program (CBCCEDP) provide free screenings.
Screening is not always an easy decision. There are benefits and risks, which is why it is important to talk with a trusted healthcare provider to weigh options, ask questions, and make the best choice for your health.

At InterCommunity, we believe no woman should face breast cancer alone. Early detection, support, and access to care can save lives, and together, we can change the story for families in the Hartford region and beyond.

InterCommunity Staff Celebrate Annual Outing with Fun, Food, and Community Spirit

Tue, 23 Sep 2025 14:40:56 GMT

On Friday, September 5, InterCommunity staff came together for a day of laughter, connection, and celebration at the annual Employee Outing, held at High Meadow Resort in North Granby. On a mild late-summer day, team members from across the organization gathered in two shifts—morning and afternoon—ensuring everyone could take part in the festivities.

From the moment staff arrived in their InterCommunity t-shirts, it was clear this was more than just a work event—it was a chance to relax, enjoy one another’s company, and celebrate the sense of community that defines InterCommunity. The outing offered something for everyone, from lively games of bingo and mini golf to climbing the rock wall—or simply unwinding and enjoying time together. Many staff took the chance to relax, connect with colleagues, and savor a much-needed change from the everyday routine.

One of the highlights was the annual IC Challenge Cup field games, where employees teamed up—across departments—for a chance at the coveted trophy and bragging rights. Cheers and laughter echoed across the resort as colleagues encouraged one another in water ballon tossing, tug-of-war, and other activities.

For those who preferred relaxation, the swimming pool was the perfect retreat, while others danced to music from a live DJ or enjoyed a peaceful stroll through the scenic resort grounds.

The outing also featured an abundance of food, with options ranging from a taco and nacho bar to barbecued chicken, spareribs, veggie burgers, fresh corn on the cob, and even New England clam chowder. And of course, no celebration would be complete without a decorated sheet cake and ice cream that sweetened the day.

A special moment of the event was when staff honored Jeff Hughes, outgoing Chief Financial Officer, who will soon be retiring. Jeff received heartfelt farewells and best wishes from colleagues and had the distinct honor of serving as judge for the cannonball contest—an event that drew big laughs and plenty of splashes.

By the end of the day, the Employee Outing had once again reminded everyone that InterCommunity is more than a workplace—it’s a community. Staff left with smiles, full stomachs, and memories of a day filled with fun, camaraderie, and gratitude for one another.

InterCommunity Named Both National and Regional Top Workplace

Tue, 23 Sep 2025 14:15:57 GMT

We’re proud to share some exciting news—InterCommunity has been recognized not once, but twice, as a Top Workplace this year! Earlier this summer, we received the 2025 National Healthcare Top Workplace award, an honor given to just 129 organizations across the country with fewer than 500 employees. And now, we’re thrilled to announce that InterCommunity has also been named a Regional Top Workplace by the Hartford Courant, joining a select list of only 59 companies to earn this recognition in 2025.

These recognitions are meaningful because they are based entirely on feedback from our staff. More than 233 of you participated in the confidential survey administered by Energage, an independent research firm specializing in workplace culture. Your honest perspectives about what it’s like to work here and the culture we’ve built together earned us these honors.

To be named a Top Workplace reflects more than awards; it shows that InterCommunity is a place where people feel valued, seen, respected, and proud of our work. Our team of more than 350 employees brings a wide range of perspectives, experiences, and talents, and together, we create an environment where both staff and clients feel they belong.

These awards mark the 15 Top Workplace recognitions InterCommunity has received over the past 15 years. They are a powerful reminder that YOU—your energy, compassion, and teamwork—make this organization thrive. Because of you, InterCommunity is not just a Top Workplace, but an extraordinary one.

A New Path for Cervical Cancer Screening at InterCommunity

Fri, 19 Sep 2025 17:41:15 GMT

For many patients, cervical cancer screening can feel overwhelming. Traditional Pap tests are invasive, uncomfortable, and for some, retraumatizing. At InterCommunity Health Care, this challenge is especially real for the people we serve—individuals living with serious and persistent mental illness, substance use disorders, histories of trauma, or those navigating gender dysphoria. Too often, these barriers keep patients from getting preventive care that could save their lives.

That’s why InterCommunity has introduced a groundbreaking, patient-centered solution: self-swabs for cervical cancer screening. Recommended by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), self-swabs give patients more control, privacy, and dignity in the screening process.

“This is about more than medicine—it’s about creating an environment where every patient feels respected and empowered,” said Dr. Chad McDonald, InterCommunity’s Chief Medical Officer. “By offering trauma-informed care rooted in compassion and dignity, we reduce stigma and anxiety, and open the door for more patients to say yes to prevention.”

In 2024, cervical cancer screening rates among eligible female patients at InterCommunity rose significantly with the use of Pap testing alone. With the addition of self-swabs, those numbers are expected to increase—bringing lifesaving screenings to patients who might otherwise go without.

For InterCommunity, self-swabs are not just a tool—they’re a symbol of our commitment to high-quality health accessibility. By prioritizing comfort, dignity, and choice, we are breaking down barriers and making preventive care accessible for everyone in our community.

Together, we’re paving the way for a healthier future.

The Power of a Trusted Provider: Why Physical Health at InterCommunity Matters

Fri, 22 Aug 2025 15:39:09 GMT

At InterCommunity, we believe that staying healthy starts with having a trusted doctor and nurses you can see regularly—what we call Physical Healthcare. It’s more than just going to a clinic when you're sick. It’s about having someone who knows you, understands your health needs, and helps you stay well.

When people have a regular doctor or Primary Care Provider (PCP)—this might be a physician, nurse, or physician assistant—they’re more likely to catch health problems early, avoid trips to the emergency room, and feel more in control of their health. For people living with diabetes, high blood pressure, asthma, or even depression, a trusted doctor can make all the difference. And for people working through recovery from addiction, our Physical Health team helps with things like sleep, nutrition, and liver health, all of which are key parts of healing.

At InterCommunity, our Physical Health team offers care for the whole person. This includes:

Checkups and yearly wellness exams
Care for chronic conditions like high blood pressure or diabetes
Women's health services like Pap smears, birth control, and STI testing
Help with quitting smoking and staying up to date on vaccines
Support for people in recovery from addiction, including managing medication for addiction like Suboxone, Sublocade, and Vivitrol
Same-day visits for minor illnesses
Connections to help with food, transportation, employment services, and more

We also work closely with mental health counselors, case managers, and community health workers, so our patients get the care and support they need—all in one place.

“Having a trusted team of medical experts by your side can change the course of someone’s health journey,” said Tyler Booth, Executive Vice President & Chief Operating Officer at InterCommunity. “We’re here to walk with our patients every step of the way.”

At InterCommunity, we’re proud to provide care that helps people live longer, healthier, and happier lives.

Big News for East Hartford: Norris Elementary Opens New School-Based Health Center

Tue, 19 Aug 2025 20:19:03 GMT

East Hartford Public Schools and InterCommunity Health Care have taken another important step toward making healthcare more accessible for local families with the opening of the district’s 10th School-Based Health Center (SBHC) at Norris Elementary School. The new center was celebrated on August 11 with a ribbon-cutting ceremony attended by educators, local officials, InterCommunity staff, and community members.

Located in a newly renovated space that once served as the North End Senior Center, the Norris SBHC will provide primary care and behavioral health services to students during the school day—services that go far beyond the scope of a school nurse. With parental permission, students can receive checkups, physical exams, immunizations, treatment for minor illnesses and injuries, as well as counseling and crisis support. By offering care on campus, the center reduces missed school time for students and eliminates transportation and scheduling challenges for families.

“Expanding our School-Based Health Center program to Norris Elementary is a meaningful step toward ensuring every child has access to compassionate, high-quality healthcare—right where they learn,” said Kimberly L. Beauregard, President & CEO of InterCommunity Health Care. “This program is about more than treatment—it’s about connection, prevention, and supporting the whole child.”

The expansion of a School-Based Health Center at Norris was made possible through the leadership of Tricia Orozco, Vice President of Strategic Implementation at InterCommunity; Rebecca Rickert, Clinical Manager for SBHCs; and Jessica Russell, Practice Manager for SBHCs, whose vision and dedication helped bring this new center from concept to reality.

School-Based Health Centers are making a measurable difference in East Hartford and Manchester. In the 2024–2025 school year alone, more than 2,100 students received over 23,000 behavioral and physical health services across the district’s centers. For many children, this care means they can remain healthy, focused, and ready to learn—without their families facing the added stress of navigating the healthcare system.

With the addition of Norris Elementary, InterCommunity and East Hartford Public Schools are continuing their shared mission to remove obstacles, promote wellness, and ensure that every child has the opportunity to succeed in school and in life.

A Day of Health, Fun, and Connection at Our Coventry Street Campus

Mon, 18 Aug 2025 15:58:51 GMT

On Friday, August 8, our Coventry Street campus came alive with music, laughter, and a true sense of community as we hosted a special celebration in honor of National Health Center Week. The event brought together patients, neighbors, community partners, and staff for a day filled with health resources, family-friendly activities, and an inspiring reminder of the power of community-centered care.

We were honored to welcome Senator Richard Blumenthal, Congressman John Larson, and Hartford Mayor Arunan Arulampalam, each of whom spoke about the vital role community health centers play in expanding access to care and improving health outcomes. Their visits underscored the importance of our mission and the ongoing need to invest in healthcare for all.

Throughout the day, guests enjoyed a variety of activities and resources. Children bounced and played in the inflatable house, families visited the mobile library, and neighbors explored tables hosted by local vendors offering information on housing assistance, nutrition, mental health support, and other community resources. The InterCommunity Mobile Unit was also on site, providing complete physical exams and behavioral health assessments. For those looking to relax, an all-levels yoga session offered a moment of calm amid the excitement. Healthy snacks and refreshing treats from an ice cream truck kept everyone fueled for the fun, and raffle prizes added an extra spark of excitement.

The day was about more than festivities — it was a celebration of connection and commitment. Every conversation between neighbors, every shared laugh over ice cream, and every handshake between a community leader and a resident was a reminder that health is not just about medical care; it’s about fostering trust, building relationships, and working together toward a healthier future.

We extend our heartfelt thanks to all our community partners, vendors, and attendees for making this event a success — and to our dedicated InterCommunity Health Care team, whose hard work made the day possible. Your enthusiasm and energy turned National Health Center Week into an unforgettable celebration of wellness, unity, and hope.

Fighting Hepatitis One Patient at a Time

Fri, 25 Jul 2025 13:56:57 GMT

July 28 marks World Hepatitis Day, a time to shed light on a silent but serious group of diseases that affect millions of people across the country—including right here in Greater Hartford. Hepatitis A, B, and C are all viral infections that attack the liver, often with few symptoms in the early stages. Without diagnosis and treatment, they can lead to long-term complications, including liver failure and cancer.

Among them, Hepatitis C (HCV) is the most common and dangerous. According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) , estimated new HCV infections in the U.S. rose to 67,400 in 2023, a sharp increase from 44,700 in 2017. These numbers are more than double the CDC’s target goal of 35,000 by 2025.

While the rate of Hepatitis C-related deaths has dropped to 2.89 per 100,000, down from 4.13 in 2017, the fight is far from over. The CDC’s goal is to reduce the mortality rate below 3.00 by 2025—and communities like ours must remain at the forefront of that effort.

InterCommunity Health Care is doing exactly that.

“At InterCommunity, we work daily to eliminate Hepatitis C as a public health threat for the Hartford area. By training every primary care provider to screen, diagnose, and treat Hepatitis C during their orientation, we are removing barriers and restoring hope to patients by treating right from the patient’s medical home,” said Dr. Chad McDonald, Chief Medical Officer at InterCommunity. “We are bringing care to where our patients feel safest and most supported.”

In addition to Hepatitis C, InterCommunity also provides testing, vaccines, and care coordination for Hepatitis A and B. Hepatitis A is typically spread through contaminated food or water, while Hepatitis B is often transmitted through blood, sexual contact, or from mother to child during pregnancy or childbirth. Both can be prevented through vaccination—something InterCommunity offers as part of our comprehensive care.

We know that early detection saves lives. That’s why we encourage our patients to ask about hepatitis testing, especially if they have a history of injection drug use, were born between 1945 and 1965, or have certain chronic health conditions.

Eliminating hepatitis in our region is not just a public health goal—it’s a matter of dignity and access. At InterCommunity, we are proud to lead this work with compassion and urgency, one patient at a time.

From Kimberly Beauregard, President & CEO: A Workplace That Reflects Our Values

Tue, 22 Jul 2025 19:20:20 GMT

I’m proud to share that InterCommunity Health Care has been recognized as a 2025 National Healthcare Top Workplace, an honor awarded to just 129 organizations across the country with fewer than 500 employees. What makes this recognition especially meaningful is that it’s based entirely on feedback from our staff, gathered confidentially by the independent research firm Energage.

To be named a Top Workplace is a reflection of the environment we’ve built together—one where people feel respected, valued, and supported. Our team brings a wide range of perspectives, experiences, and talents to their work, and that richness strengthens everything we do. Both staff and clients often share how deeply they feel they belong here—and that speaks volumes about our culture.

As we celebrate this achievement, we stay grounded in our mission: to provide thoughtful, compassionate care to those who need it most. That mission remains unchanged—and it will continue to guide us as we grow and serve together.

InterCommunity Named a National 2025 Healthcare Top Workplace

Wed, 16 Jul 2025 12:56:07 GMT

InterCommunity Health Care is proud to announce that it has been nationally recognized as a 2025 Healthcare Top Workplace , a prestigious honor awarded to only 129 organizations nationwide with fewer than 500 employees.

This recognition is based entirely on employee feedback gathered through a confidential survey administered by Energage, an independent research firm specializing in workplace culture. The Top Workplaces program is the nation’s most credible and objective employer recognition initiative—free from subjective elements and grounded in robust data analysis.

“I’m beyond excited and proud to accept this national honor for the very first time,” said Kimberly Beauregard, President and CEO of InterCommunity Health Care. “This recognition is a direct reflection of our dedicated team—professionals who bring unmatched passion, skill, and commitment to the individuals and families we serve throughout the Greater Hartford community.”

InterCommunity Health Care remains deeply committed to fostering a welcoming, supportive, and mission-driven workplace that empowers employees to make a difference every day.

For more information, please call 860-569-5900

What the New State Budget Means for InterCommunity

Thu, 26 Jun 2025 17:41:59 GMT

On May 20, InterCommunity Health Care joined more than 2,000 nonprofit providers, staff, and clients at the Connecticut State Capitol to demand fair and sustainable funding for community-based health and human services. The rally, held just days before the close of the state’s legislative session, served as a powerful, united call for lawmakers to prioritize the needs of Connecticut’s most vulnerable residents.

The event came at a pivotal moment. As the June 4 legislative deadline approached, lawmakers and the Governor worked to finalize the state budget—nonprofits like InterCommunity sounded the alarm. Despite growing demand for services such as mental health care, substance use treatment, primary care, and community outreach, the adopted budget included no general funding increase for nonprofit providers for the 2025 fiscal year.

With banners held high and voices raised, InterCommunity staff stood in solidarity with peer organizations from across the state, urging elected officials to address a deepening crisis. Nonprofit providers like InterCommunity—who deliver essential services to people facing serious barriers to care—have gone years without adequate increases in funding, all while costs rise.

“Connecticut’s nonprofit health providers are doing more with less every day,” said Kim Beauregard, President and CEO of InterCommunity. “We serve people who face serious barriers to care—housing insecurity, poverty, substance use, and trauma. When the state underfunds organizations like ours, our communities suffer. This is not just a budget issue—it’s a public health crisis.”

While targeted increases were approved for providers who run group homes and treat developmental disabilities—with required wage increases for caregivers—broad-based support for organizations like InterCommunity was once again deferred. Lawmakers also designated $30 million in the second year of the budget for nonprofits serving individuals with mental health and substance use needs or providing reentry support to formerly incarcerated people.

InterCommunity’s presence at the Capitol was not just symbolic—it was a statement of values and a demonstration of unity with peer organizations across the state. The message was clear: Connecticut cannot balance its budget at the expense of the most vulnerable.

The rally was part of a larger statewide effort led by the CT Community Nonprofit Alliance to ensure policymakers understand the real-world impact of chronic underfunding. Without action, providers warned, services may be scaled back or eliminated, wait times could increase, and individuals and families may go without critical care.

“There’s a real disconnect between the value of our work and the state’s investment in it,” Beauregard added. “We were proud to stand up for our staff, our clients, and our mission. The fight for fair funding doesn’t end with the legislative session—it continues in every conversation we have about what kind of community we want to be.”

As we look ahead, InterCommunity remains committed to delivering high-quality, compassionate care—and to advocating for the resources needed to keep that promise.

Staying Safe in the Summer Heat

Mon, 23 Jun 2025 15:27:09 GMT

Summer is a beautiful time in our part of the state. The days are long, the sun is shining, and many of us enjoy being outside with friends and family. But when the temperature climbs, the heat can be dangerous—especially for kids, older adults, people who work outside, and those living with health conditions like asthma, diabetes, or heart disease.

At InterCommunity, we care about your health and want to help you enjoy summer safely. Here are some simple ways to stay cool, stay safe, and protect your loved ones.

Watch for Signs of Heat Illness

When your body gets too hot, it can lead to serious problems like heat exhaustion or heat stroke. If you or someone else starts feeling dizzy, very tired, nauseated, or gets a bad headache, it's time to cool down fast. Move to the shade or indoors, drink water, and rest. If symptoms don’t go away or get worse, call for medical help right away.

Cool Down the Smart Way

The middle of the day is often the hottest. Try to do outdoor chores or activities in the morning or evening when it’s cooler. Wear light, loose-fitting clothes and take plenty of breaks in the shade. If you don’t have air conditioning at home, you can visit a cooling center . Just call 2-1-1 to find one near you.

Fans can help a little, but when it’s over 90 degrees, they might not be enough. That’s when it's best to find an air-conditioned place, even if it’s just for a few hours.

Drink Lots of Water

When it’s hot, your body needs more water. Try to drink water all day, even if you don’t feel thirsty. Carry a refillable water bottle and take sips often. Stay away from drinks with lots of sugar, caffeine, or alcohol—they can actually make you more dehydrated.

Look Out for Each Other

Some people have a harder time dealing with the heat. If you know someone who is older, sick, or lives alone, check in on them during very hot days. Never leave children or pets in a parked car—not even for a minute. The temperature inside can rise quickly and become deadly.

For Our Outdoor Workers

If you work outside, heat safety is even more important. Wear a hat and light clothing, take breaks in the shade, and drink water often. Don’t try to "tough it out"—listen to your body and rest when you need to.

Pay Attention to the Forecast

Before you head out, check the weather and the air quality. You can look up local heat risks on the CDC HeatRisk Dashboard online. Some days may be too hot or have poor air quality, especially if you have asthma or breathing problems. On those days, it’s safer to stay indoors.

Know How Your Medications React to Heat

Some medicines can make it harder for your body to stay cool or keep enough water. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist about your prescriptions. Also, make sure that any medicine that requires refrigeration is stored safely in case of a power outage.

Stay Cool, Stay Safe, Stay Connected

InterCommunity is here for you. We want everyone in our community to enjoy the summer and stay healthy. If you have questions or need help finding resources, give us a call. Let’s take care of ourselves and each other this summer—because your health matters every season of the year.

For more tips and updates, visit the CDC HeatRisk Dashboard or stop by one of our locations in Hartford, East Hartford, or South Windsor. You can also call us at (860) 569-5900.

InterCommunity First to Offer Inpatient Cocaine Withdrawal Management in Greater Hartford

Thu, 29 May 2025 19:37:55 GMT

InterCommunity Health Care is preparing to expand its Withdrawal Management services this June to include specialized medical support for individuals experiencing cocaine withdrawal. This enhancement makes InterCommunity the first provider in Greater Hartford to offer dedicated, medically monitored care for cocaine use disorder (CocUD) within an existing inpatient detoxification setting.

Housed within InterCommunity’s Withdrawal Management Unit at 500 Blue Hills Avenue in Hartford, CT, the new program will offer American Society of Addiction Medicine (ASAM) Level 3.7WM care—a medically monitored, 24/7 inpatient service designed to help adults safely stabilize during the acute withdrawal period from cocaine.

“For too long, patients struggling with cocaine addictions have been ignored in our country’s treatment system, built around opioids and alcohol,” said Dr. Chad McDonald, Chief Medical Officer at InterCommunity Health Care. “This new service fills a critical gap, providing a safe, supportive space to stabilize medically and begin the journey toward recovery. Our commitment to Greater Hartford includes meeting the real and rising needs of our community, and that means treating cocaine addiction with the same urgency and dignity as any other health condition.”

Connecticut has seen a sharp increase in stimulant-related overdoses. In 2023, nearly 1 in 4 overdose deaths in the state involved cocaine—often in combination with opioids—according to the Connecticut Department of Public Health. Yet, withdrawal services have traditionally been geared toward depressants like alcohol and opioids, leaving a dangerous gap in care for those withdrawing from cocaine.

Unlike alcohol and benzodiazepines, cocaine withdrawal doesn’t typically involve life-threatening physical symptoms—but the risks are no less serious. Individuals often experience crushing fatigue, severe depression, suicidal thoughts, psychosis, and intense cravings, making inpatient care essential for safe and compassionate stabilization.

InterCommunity’s program represents a vital shift in how cocaine use disorder is understood and treated. By providing dedicated inpatient services, InterCommunity is reinforcing the need to treat cocaine addiction as a serious medical condition—one that requires clinical expertise, compassionate care, and robust infrastructure.

The Cocaine Withdrawal Management is now open to adults 18 and older who need inpatient support to safely withdraw from cocaine. Full program details, including referral and intake processes, will be announced in the coming weeks.

Big Improvements Happening at InterCommunity!

Tue, 27 May 2025 16:59:32 GMT

InterCommunity is growing—and so are our efforts to make sure our buildings are safe, welcoming, and accessible to everyone. Whether you're visiting for a checkup, therapy session, or just helping someone get to their appointment, we want your experience to be as comfortable and easy as possible. That’s why we’ve started several important construction projects across our sites. These updates will help us better serve our community now and in the future.

New Sidewalk on Coventry Street
We are building a new sidewalk in front of our buildings at 56 Coventry Street. It will stretch from the campus entrance all the way past both buildings. The new walkway will include ADA-compliant ramps, which means people using wheelchairs or walkers will be able to move safely from the sidewalk to the parking lot. We’re also hoping to fix up the parking lot between the two buildings to make it even easier to access care. This project is funded by the Department of Public Health’s Health Disparities Prevention Grant and will be finished by the end of 2025.
New Garage for the Mobile Unit
Our Mobile Unit travels across Greater Hartford to bring care to people where they are. It offers things like vaccines, physical exams, and mental health checkups. To keep the Mobile Unit safe during cold weather, we’re building a special climate-controlled garage at Clayton House. This new garage will protect the vehicle and allow us to continue providing mobile care all year long. This project is funded by the State of Connecticut’s Nonprofit Grant Program and is expected to be complete by August 2025.
Better Heating and Cooling at 281 Main Street
At our 281 Main Street location, we’re replacing the old HVAC (heating and cooling) system on the first and second floors. This upgrade will improve the air quality, comfort, and ventilation for both staff and visitors. Thanks to the State of Connecticut’s Nonprofit Grant Program, this project will also be finished by August 2025.

These improvements are just one part of our commitment to putting people first. By updating our spaces, we’re making sure every person who walks through our doors feels safe, supported, and cared for. We’re excited for what’s ahead and can’t wait to welcome you into these new and improved spaces!

Health, Hope & Healing, One Step at a Time

Wed, 21 May 2025 14:14:36 GMT

As May comes to an end, we take a moment to reflect on Mental Health Awareness Month—a special time when people across the country talked openly about mental health and showed support for those who are struggling. At InterCommunity, it was a month full of hope and healing. But our work doesn’t stop here. Every day, we continue to provide mental health and addiction care to people across Greater Hartford.

Mental health challenges can happen to anyone, at any age. That’s why InterCommunity makes it easy to get help. We offer services at our clinics in Hartford, East Hartford, and South Windsor. With Same-Day Access, people don’t have to wait weeks or months to be seen. They can walk in without an appointment and leave with a customized care plan to get the support they need right away.

Our services include one-on-one therapy, group therapy, psychiatry, and help during a crisis. We also support children, teens, and families. For Spanish-speaking members of our community, we offer bilingual services with caring professionals who understand their needs.

Why is this work so important? Because even though Connecticut was recently ranked #2 in the country for mental health and well-being, not everyone has an easy time finding care. A report from the Connecticut Senate Democrats said that people still face barriers when trying to see in-network mental health providers. That’s why programs like ours are so important—we help fill those gaps, right in the heart of the community.

We also support people recovering from addiction. InterCommunity has been helping people overcome substance use for over 45 years. Our programs include Intensive Outpatient (IOP), Extended Outpatient (EOP), and Medication treatment to help with addictions (Substance Use Disorders; formerly known as MSUD). These services help people learn new skills, manage challenges, and build healthier lives.

For example, we use safe and proven medicines like buprenorphine and naltrexone to help with opioid or alcohol addiction. But recovery is about more than medicine—it’s about finding the right support, having someone to talk to, and getting help with things like housing, food, or job training. Our team works with each person to make a care plan that fits their life.

And we don’t stop at our clinics. Our Mobile Unit travels around the Greater Hartford area, offering health services like vaccines, physical exams, and behavioral health assessments. This makes care more accessible to people who might not otherwise get it.

We also know that the need for mental health care is real, especially in Hartford. According to DataHaven’s 2023 Equity Profile, about 1 in 4 adults in Hartford say they have poor mental health. That’s higher than the state average. But numbers like these only push us to work harder—and with more heart.

During Mental Health Awareness Month, we reaffirmed why we do this work: because everyone deserves to feel better, to be heard, and to be helped. “At InterCommunity, we deliver the kind of mental health and addiction care that transforms lives—because healing isn’t a privilege, it’s a promise we keep to our community every day,” said Dr. Chad McDonald, Chief Medical Officer at InterCommunity.

That promise doesn’t end in May. It continues all year long. Our doors are open, our hearts are ready, and our team is here to support anyone who needs help—today, tomorrow, and always.

Let’s keep moving forward. Let’s keep talking about mental health. Let’s keep helping one another heal. Because hope grows stronger when we grow together.

Managing Allergies with InterCommunity

Fri, 25 Apr 2025 17:56:57 GMT

Spring is in the air—and so are seasonal allergies. If you’re one of the many people who experience sneezing, congestion, itchy eyes, or other allergy-related symptoms this time of year, InterCommunity Health Care is here to help.

By choosing InterCommunity as your primary care provider (PCP), you gain access to compassionate, expert care to help you manage allergies and feel your best.

How We Can Help:

Our team of dedicated providers can guide you through every step of allergy management, starting with a thorough diagnosis to confirm that your symptoms are allergy-related and not caused by another condition. Once diagnosed, we work with you to develop a personalized treatment plan—which may include over-the-counter solutions, prescription medications, or lifestyle recommendations like dietary changes and stress management.

Chief Medical Officer at InterCommunity, Dr. Chad McDonald, said, "No one should have to choose between enjoying spring and managing their symptoms—at InterCommunity, we make it easier to breathe, live, and thrive."

For those with persistent or severe symptoms, your PCP can refer you to a specialist, such as an allergist or an ENT, for further evaluation and treatment. And because we believe in long-term care, your InterCommunity provider will continue to support you throughout the season, adjusting your plan as needed to keep symptoms under control.

Don’t wait if:

Your symptoms don’t improve with over-the-counter meds
You’re unsure if allergies are the root cause
You’re curious about allergy testing or immunotherapy
You simply want to feel better and breathe easier

Spring should be a season to enjoy—not endure. Let InterCommunity Health Care be your partner in wellness. Reach out today and take the first step toward an allergy season that feels a whole lot better.

Make an appointment today by calling (860) 569-5900.

We’re here for you.

InterCommunity’s Journey Forward

Thu, 24 Apr 2025 13:34:29 GMT

Just as the UConn Women Huskies showcased strength and perseverance in their championship-winning season, InterCommunity has demonstrated what it means to rise to the occasion—overcoming challenges and remaining steadfast in our mission to provide high-quality, compassionate healthcare for all.

In 2024, we reached several important milestones that reflect our continued growth and impact:

Improved Health Outcomes: Nearly 7,500 Uniformed Data System (UDS) patients benefited from our integrated approach to care, underscoring the effectiveness of our services and commitment to wellness.
Facility Expansion and Renovation: We completed significant renovations and expansions at several locations, including the $1.8 million transformation of our 40 Coventry Street site in Hartford. This investment increases access to care and enhances the patient's experience by offering same day care.
Unwavering Commitment to our Mission: In response to increasing federal scrutiny around DEI, we made the difficult decision to reevaluate and adjust some of our initiatives. These changes were necessary to safeguard our staff, patients, and long-term funding. Still, our values—respect, kindness, honesty, and compassion—continue to guide everything we do.
Fostering Unity and Communication: We launched Let’s Talk About It, a new initiative aimed at promoting open dialogue and a culture of listening across the agency. We also updated our communication policies and introduced email guidelines to support clarity and reinforce our commitment to transparency.
Celebrating a Milestone: Our ribbon-cutting ceremony at 40 Coventry Street, attended by U.S. Senator Richard Blumenthal and Hartford Mayor Arunan Arulampalam, marked a major step forward in our ability to meet the community’s needs.
Financial Stability: Despite a challenging and ever-changing funding landscape, we remain financially stable. Our diverse revenue streams and strong advocacy efforts have allowed us to weather this period of uncertainty and stabilize our plans for the future.

None of this would be possible without our incredible staff. Your dedication, insights, and resilience continue to shape our work and our future.

We are, and always will be, a community rooted in care, resilience, and hope. Together, we continue to change the meaning of care—and caring.

InterCommunity Celebrates Successful Ribbon-Cutting for Expanded Health Facility

Tue, 04 Mar 2025 18:34:11 GMT

InterCommunity Celebrates Successful Ribbon-Cutting for Expanded Health Facility

InterCommunity proudly marked a milestone in community health with a successful ribbon-cutting ceremony celebrating the expansion of our primary and behavioral health care facilities at 40 Coventry Street in Hartford’s North End. The event, held on March 3, 2025, drew a strong turnout, including several media representatives, community leaders, and key stakeholders.

The expansion was made possible by $1.8 million in Congressionally directed funding secured in 2023, aimed at increasing access to essential health services and reducing disparities in the community. U.S. Senator Richard Blumenthal, Hartford Mayor Arunan Arulampalam, and InterCommunity President and CEO Kimberly L. Beauregard were among the featured speakers, emphasizing the impact of this initiative on local residents.

“This expansion ensures that more residents in the North End of Hartford have access to the care they need and deserve,” said Senator Blumenthal. “Investing in health care infrastructure strengthens our communities and improves lives.”

Kimberly L. Beauregard highlighted the immediate benefits of the expansion, including the ability to serve 2,000 additional individuals with same-day access to sick and well visits, vaccines, individual and group therapy, addiction recovery services, and a full range of primary care and behavioral health support. “We are thrilled to welcome more patients and expand our impact,” said Beauregard. “This achievement reflects the commitment of our team and the support of our leaders.”

Following the ceremony, attendees toured the newly expanded facilities, gaining insight into the improved resources available to the community. InterCommunity remains dedicated to its mission of providing high-quality, accessible health care and we look forward to continuing our work in the community.

Changing the Meaning of Care

Wed, 26 Feb 2025 21:11:55 GMT

What if healthcare wasn’t just about treating illness, but about truly seeing people—understanding your struggles, your hopes, and your barriers to getting better? What if, instead of a system that feels rushed and impersonal, care meant slowing down, listening, and really “meeting patients where they are”, not just saying it? At InterCommunity (IC), we have redefined what care means. We believe every person deserves respect, dignity, and high-quality medical treatment—no exceptions. Whether someone is struggling with addiction, a life-long disease, or simply needs a check-up, we are here to serve, not to judge.

At the heart of this mission is the understanding that healthcare should work for everyone. We know that people come to us with different experiences—some have insurance, some don’t; some have a strong support system, while others feel completely alone. We also know that social factors—like stable housing, food security, and mental health—affect physical health just as much as medical treatment does. That’s why we take a whole-person approach, looking beyond symptoms to address the real challenges that get in the way of good health.

The science behind this is clear: patients do better when healthcare is built on trust and accessibility. Studies show that when people feel safe and heard in a medical setting, they are more likely to follow treatment plans, stay engaged in their care, and have better long-term outcomes. For those facing addictions, mental health conditions, or chronic diseases like diabetes, having a healthcare provider who truly listens and supports them can make the difference between thriving and falling through the cracks.

We are committed to caring for people, period. Forget politics: no one is turned away at IC because of their financial situation, background, or past. This is not just a tagline or a buzzword—it’s who we are. We offer full-spectrum addiction treatment, therapy services, and integrated primary care because we know that real healthcare means treating you—all of you.

We also recognize that traditional healthcare models don’t work for everyone. That’s why we offer services like telehealth, our mobile clinic, and community outreach to bring care to people where they are. Whether that means reaching someone struggling with fentanyl who is hesitant to visit a clinic, or providing routine screenings in neighborhoods with limited access to care, our focus is always on breaking down barriers.

At InterCommunity, we believe care means more than just medicine. It means compassion. It means recognizing that every person deserves the chance to be healthy, regardless of their circumstances. It means ensuring that when someone walks through our doors, they are met with dignity and respect—not judgment. That is the future of healthcare, and we are proud to be leading the way.

CT Community Health Centers Navigating Uncertainty, Funding Delays

Thu, 13 Feb 2025 20:54:40 GMT

InterCommunity Health Care is proud to be featured in CT Mirror’s recent article on the importance of community health centers in providing preventative care. The article highlights the critical role these centers play in ensuring accessible healthcare for all.

Our own Tricia Orozco, Vice President of Strategic Implementation, was quoted, emphasizing the dedication of our staff: “We’re doing preventative medicine. Our staff can go other places. They choose to be in our community health centers.”

This commitment to community-centered care is what drives InterCommunity’s mission every day. Read the full article HERE .

Inspired by Dr. King: A Pledge to Whole-Person Healthcare and Justice

Fri, 17 Jan 2025 20:10:37 GMT

As I reflect on Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr’s life and legacy, I think about the vast collection of speeches, sermons, and books he left behind to empower the African American community and lead, guide, and direct all of us on how to improve race relations in difficult times. We need that more today than ever before, especially as we strive to inspire hope and provide compassionate, whole-person healthcare for everyone.

Dr. King’s I Have a Dream speech urged those seeking freedom to uphold a higher moral standard, meeting violence with love and faith. He also highlighted the importance of recognizing white allies who saw their fight for justice as linked to that of Black Americans.

Call me naïve, but I believe the ills of our society could be resolved if more people understood that Dr. King’s dream still matters to address the inequality in our schools, to combat the injustices of our judicial system, and to overcome partisan rhetoric.

I get emotional reflecting on the bonds I share with so many in the African American community – connections that transcend race, religion, and politics. While some have questioned my relationship with the African American community, I am reminded of how people once also questioned Dr. King’s commitment to the community. In his letter from Birmingham Jail, he responded to the criticism by stating, “I was invited” because injustice resides here. I too, was invited to take part in addressing the injustices of our community.

In his book, Where Do We Go from Here , Dr. King stresses that hope against despair is essential for the future of the movement and the empowerment of Black people. He also emphasizes that integration is not enough: inclusion in a white-dominated society does not equate to justice.

As a leader of a healthcare organization, I am motivated by Dr. King’s words when he said, “Of all the forms of inequality, injustice in healthcare is the most shocking and inhumane.” So, with all the uncertainties in our communities, I want to reassure you that I and the team at InterCommunity will continue to fight for all people regardless of our differences. InterCommunity will continue to inspire hope and promote whole-person health by providing high-quality, affordable, compassionate healthcare for everyone.

Kimberly L. Beauregard, LCSW

President and CEO

InterCommunity Health Care

InterCommunity Leads the Way with Innovative Opioid Withdrawal Treatment

Mon, 06 Jan 2025 16:43:04 GMT

Low-Dose Buprenorphine Induction (LDBI)

For individuals battling opioid addiction, especially those impacted by fentanyl, hope can feel out of reach. InterCommunity Inc. is changing that. As the only provider in the region offering Low-Dose Buprenorphine Induction (LDBI), InterCommunity is leading the way with a safe, more compassionate approach to recovery.

The opioid crisis continues to grow across the country, with fentanyl causing many overdose deaths. In Connecticut, the problem is similar. In 2021, more than 10,700 Medicaid patients received buprenorphine treatment for opioid addiction, up from about 7,200 in 2019 (Connecticut Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services, 2022).

LDBI is transforming lives by making the first steps of opioid withdrawal manageable and dignified. Unlike traditional methods that often bring severe withdrawal symptoms, LDBI introduces buprenorphine gradually—giving patients relief, reducing discomfort, and offering a clear path forward.

Dr. Chad McDonald, Chief Medical Officer at InterCommunity, highlights the importance of this approach: “Low-Dose Buprenorphine Induction (LDBI) is a breakthrough for treating fentanyl addiction. Fentanyl stays in the body longer and acts faster, making old methods of starting buprenorphine risky and unpredictable. Many avoided treatment out of fear of severe withdrawal, thinking methadone was their only option. With LDBI, we offer a safer, more comfortable way to start buprenorphine, giving patients a better chance at recovery. This is a game-changer.”

“We know that starting treatment is often the hardest step,” said Tyler V.R. Booth, Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer at InterCommunity. “With LDBI, we’re removing fear and barriers for people who desperately need care. It’s about treating patients with respect and meeting them where they are on their journey to recovery.”

"I've seen people on the street take Suboxone and get really sick, so I wasn't sure if it was something I wanted to do, but I'm glad I did,” said a patient, who wishes to remain anonymous and has recently completed the treatment. "I'm not using anymore. This medicine has helped me be more active in detox, going to more groups and talking with other people. I normally stay in my room because I'm so sick, but I don't feel that way this time.”

InterCommunity’s innovative use of LDBI reflects its unwavering commitment to offering cutting-edge, evidence-based care. The program is medically monitored, focused on safety, and designed to help individuals regain control of their lives.

For those ready to take the next step, InterCommunity is here. The promise is simple: relief, hope, and a second chance.

If you’d like to learn more about our LDBI program or schedule an appointment, we’d love to hear from you! Give us a call at (860) 569-5900 ext. 515, or stop by for an intake at 500 Blue Hills Avenue, 6th floor, Hartford, CT. Walk-ins are always welcome!

Healthy Matters: Dec '24

marketing@intercommunityct.org (Venton Forbes) — Tue, 10 Dec 2024 16:03:19 GMT

Stay Merry: Tips to Beat Holiday Stress

Holiday parties, family gatherings, decorating, baking, shopping, gift lists, card lists…While the holiday season can be a festive time to enjoy the company of family and friends, it can also bring a great deal of extra stress, financial pressures, and fewer opportunities to relax.

However, it’s possible to enjoy the holidays without feeling overwhelmed. Here are some practical tips to handle holiday planning and avoid that stressed-out feeling:

Focus on activities that energize and please you and your family members. Research shows that experiences make people happier than possessions. Focus more on experiences and less on things. A winter hike in the woods, sledding, or spending time as a family doing something to give back to the community can lift everyone’s spirits and create memories that last far longer than the latest toy or digital gadget.

Stick to your budget and avoid the stress of credit card debt. Don’t spend more than you can afford, as tempting as it may be. Carrying debt may result in stress and anxiety long after the holidays are over.

Simplify. Let go of perfectionism and relax more. You don’t have to have the best-decorated house on the block or prepare the world’s best holiday meal. Delegate tasks to others and let go of traditions that no longer serve you.

Healthy Matters: Nov '24

marketing@intercommunityct.org (Venton Forbes) — Fri, 08 Nov 2024 15:59:12 GMT

November is Diabetes Awareness Month: Taking Steps Toward Health and Prevention

November is Diabetes Awareness Month, a time dedicated to raising awareness about diabetes and promoting strategies for prevention and management. Diabetes affects over 38 million Americans, with Type 2 diabetes representing the majority of cases. While Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune condition with no known prevention, Type 2 diabetes is often preventable through lifestyle changes like healthy eating, regular physical activity, and maintaining a healthy weight.

This month, health organizations and communities are working together to spread awareness of the symptoms of diabetes, the importance of regular screening, and the resources available for those living with the disease. Early detection and effective management of diabetes can prevent serious complications such as heart disease, kidney disease, and vision loss. If you or a loved one are at risk, talk to your healthcare provider about diabetes screenings and preventive steps. Even small changes to daily habits can make a big impact on long-term health.

Healthy Matters: Oct '24

marketing@intercommunityct.org (Venton Forbes) — Thu, 10 Oct 2024 15:54:19 GMT

Raising Awareness of Breast Cancer

October marks National Breast Cancer Awareness Month, a time to raise awareness about the importance of early detection, understand risk factors, and highlight available support resources for those affected by breast cancer. Other than skin cancer, breast cancer is the most common cancer among American women.

Early Detection: One of the most critical steps in combating breast cancer is early detection. Regular mammograms can detect breast cancer in its earliest stages, when treatment is most effective. Women are encouraged to start annual screenings at age 40 or earlier if they have a family history of breast cancer. Self-exams can also help identify any unusual changes.
Risk Factors: Understanding risk factors is vital for prevention. While anyone can develop breast cancer, certain factors increase risk, including age, family history, genetic mutations (such as BRCA1 and BRCA2), and lifestyle choices like diet and alcohol consumption. Knowing these factors can empower individuals to make informed decisions about their health. See here for ways to lower your breast cancer risk.
Support Resources: For those affected by breast cancer, support is available. Organizations such as the American Cancer Society offer resources, including counseling, support groups, and educational materials. Local healthcare providers can connect individuals with community programs and services, ensuring no one faces this journey alone.

Healthy Matters: Sept '24

marketing@intercommunityct.org (Venton Forbes) — Tue, 10 Sep 2024 15:50:08 GMT

Celebrating National Recovery Month: A Time for Awareness, Support, and Hope

Every September, we observe National Recovery Month, an important time dedicated to celebrating the gains made by those who are in recovery from substance use disorders. This month-long observance aims to raise awareness, reduce the stigma surrounding mental health and addiction, and promote the message that recovery is possible for everyone.

National Recovery Month highlights the critical need for accessible mental health and addiction treatment services. It serves as a reminder that recovery is not just about overcoming an addiction, but also about regaining balance in life, reconnecting with loved ones, and rebuilding a sense of self-worth. Substance use disorders affect millions of people across the country, but thanks to advances in treatment and ongoing community support, many individuals are able to reclaim their lives and thrive in recovery.

Healthy Matters: Aug '24

marketing@intercommunityct.org (Venton Forbes) — Fri, 09 Aug 2024 15:46:41 GMT

Boost Your Health: Stay Current with Vaccinations

August is National Immunization Awareness Month, a reminder that staying current with vaccinations is crucial for both children and adults. Vaccines are one of the most effective ways to prevent the spread of infectious diseases, which can cause severe health complications and even death. By ensuring that everyone is vaccinated on schedule, we protect not only ourselves but also those around us, especially those who are vulnerable and cannot be vaccinated due to medical reasons.

For children, vaccinations are essential as they help build immunity against diseases such as measles, mumps, rubella, polio, and whooping cough. These diseases can be particularly severe in young children, leading to long-term health issues or fatal outcomes. Vaccinating children helps to keep these diseases at bay, reducing their prevalence and preventing outbreaks. Pre-teens and adolescents benefit from vaccinations against diseases such as meningitis and human papillomavirus (HPV).

Adults also need to stay current with vaccinations to protect themselves against diseases like influenza, hepatitis, shingles, and pneumococcal diseases. As people age, their immune systems can weaken, making them more susceptible to infections. Regular vaccinations help boost their immunity and reduce the risk of severe illness.

Healthy Matters: July '24

marketing@intercommunityct.org (Venton Forbes) — Wed, 10 Jul 2024 15:43:08 GMT

National Minority Mental Health Awareness Month

July marks National Minority Mental Health Awareness Month, (also known as BIPOC Mental Health Awareness Month), a critical time dedicated to raising awareness about the unique mental health challenges faced by minority communities in the United States. Established in 2008 by the U.S. House of Representatives, this month underscores the urgent need for culturally competent care and equitable mental health resources for all.

Minority communities often encounter barriers such as stigma, lack of access to quality care, and cultural misunderstandings that prevent them from seeking the help they need. Statistics reveal that African Americans, Latinx individuals, Asian Americans, Native Americans, and other racial and ethnic minorities are disproportionately affected by mental health issues but are less likely to receive adequate treatment compared to

their white counterparts.

This month provides an opportunity for healthcare providers, community leaders, and policymakers to unite in addressing these disparities. It is a time to advocate for policy changes that increase funding for mental health services in underserved areas, promote culturally tailored mental health programs, and invest in training for mental health professionals to better serve diverse populations.

Healthy Matters: June '24

marketing@intercommunityct.org (Venton Forbes) — Mon, 10 Jun 2024 15:39:07 GMT

Top 5 Health Screenings Every Man Should Get

Men's Health Month is the perfect time to focus on your well-being and ensure you're on track for a healthy future. Regular health screenings are crucial for early detection and prevention of common health issues. Here are the top five screenings every man should prioritize:

Blood Pressure Screening: High blood pressure, or hypertension, often shows no symptoms but can lead to serious conditions like heart disease and stroke. Regular checks can help you manage and control your blood pressure effectively.
Cholesterol Check: High cholesterol is a major risk factor for heart disease and stroke. Men should have their cholesterol levels checked regularly, starting at age 35, or earlier if there are risk factors like diabetes or a family history of heart disease.
Diabetes Screening: Diabetes can go unnoticed until significant health problems arise. Men over 45, or those younger with risk factors like obesity or family history, should get screened regularly to manage and prevent complications.
Prostate Cancer Screening: Prostate cancer is one of the most common cancers among men. The PSA (Prostate-Specific Antigen) test is recommended starting at age 50, or earlier for those at higher risk.
Colon Cancer Screening: Colon cancer is highly treatable when detected early. Men should begin regular screenings at age 50, or earlier if there's a family history of colorectal cancer. Tests include colonoscopy, fecal occult blood test (FOBT), and sigmoidoscopy.

Healthy Matters: May '24

marketing@intercommunityct.org (Venton Forbes) — Fri, 10 May 2024 15:32:36 GMT

National Women’s Health Week

What better way to celebrate moms in May than to help them make their health a priority? National Women’s Health Week (NWHW) – May 12-18, 2024 – is a reminder to prioritize physical and mental health, and overall well-being. The theme for Tuesday, May 14 is “Shining a Light on Maternal Mental Health.” Did you know that around 1 in 5 women experience mental health issues during pregnancy or in the first year after giving birth?

Although many women experience these issues, many go without proper treatment and support. If you or someone you know is struggling, reach

out to your healthcare provider or to InterCommunity at 860-569-5900.

Healthy Matters: Apr '24

marketing@intercommunityct.org (Venton Forbes) — Wed, 10 Apr 2024 15:28:56 GMT

National Minority Health Month

April is National Minority Health Month! This annual observance builds awareness about the health disparities that persist among racial and ethnic

minority and American Indian/Alaska Native (AI/AN) populations and encourages everyone to take action to end these inequities.

This year's theme, Be the Source for Better Health: Improving Health Outcomes Through Our Cultures, Communities, and Connections, is about understanding how the unique environments, cultures, histories, and circumstances (known as social determinants of health, or SDOH) of racial and ethnic minority and AI/AN populations impact their overall health.

Healthy Matters: Mar '24

marketing@intercommunityct.org (Venton Forbes) — Fri, 08 Mar 2024 13:55:59 GMT

Food Labels: Cracking the Code

Decoding food labels is essential for making informed and healthier choices about nutrition. Understanding the information provided on food labels can help you identify key nutrients, additives, and potential allergens in the products you consume. First, look at the ingredient list, where

ingredients are listed in descending order by weight. Are there any unhealthy additives, such as artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives? What about serving size? Paying attention to serving sizes is important to avoid overconsumption of calories, sugars, fats, and other nutrients.

Other key elements to focus on include the amount of calories, macronutrients (such as fats, carbohydrates, and proteins), fiber content, and levels of sugar and sodium. By comparing these values with daily recommended intake levels, you can better manage your diet and make adjustments to ensure you’re meeting your nutritional needs while avoiding excessive amounts of unhealthy components.

InterCommunity Raises Minimum Wage

Thu, 19 Oct 2023 14:07:32 GMT

Letter from CMO of InterCommunity for National Addiction Treatment Week

Tue, 17 Oct 2023 13:36:58 GMT

Report: About 19% of CT youth ‘disconnected’ or ‘at risk’ in 2021-22

Tue, 17 Oct 2023 13:22:51 GMT

Report: About 19% of CT youth ‘disconnected’ or ‘at risk’ in 2021-22

In case you missed it, Dalio Education recently published a comprehensive study highlighting the current mental health crisis among Connecticut's youth. The study reveals that one-in-five of young people ages 14 to 26 are either at-risk or disconnected. This is a figure that escalates significantly here in Hartford and in other major cities across the state. These statistics underscore the urgent demand for youth mental health care, and the need for increased support to community health providers who provide that care. Our mission at InterCommunity is to deliver an integrated approach to health care by providing primary care, mental health care and addiction recovery services. It is paramount that we strengthen our commitment to connecting young people with these vital resources, and to do so within their local communities. The findings of this report should be a wakeup call for our state for a crisis that requires a collaborative response from the state, health officials, school systems, and community-based health providers.
– Kim Beauregard, President & CEO, InterCommunity Health Care

October is National Breast Cancer Awareness Month

Tue, 17 Oct 2023 13:20:03 GMT

National Breast Cancer Awareness Month

Breast cancer is one of the most prevalent and potentially life-threatening diseases affecting women worldwide. Men can also get breast cancer, although male breast cancer accounts for less than one percent of all breast cancer diagnoses.

This month-long campaign serves as a platform to educate people about the importance of early detection through regular screenings , such as mammograms, and to promote breast self-exams. It also emphasizes the need for ongoing research, support for individuals and families affected by breast cancer, and fundraising for crucial medical advancements and treatments. Breast Cancer Awareness Month helps empower individuals to take proactive steps toward their breast health, reduces stigmas surrounding the disease, and fosters a sense of solidarity in the fight against breast cancer.

Early detection through regular screenings and self-exams significantly increases the chances of successful treatment and survival. Risk factors include genetics, age, gender, and lifestyle factors like diet and exercise. Breast cancer symptoms may include lumps, changes in breast appearance, nipple discharge, or skin changes. Seeking medical advice promptly upon noticing any potential signs is crucial for timely diagnosis and treatment.

Unveiling Hope: A Surprising Revelation on Addiction Recovery

Mon, 11 Sep 2023 18:59:15 GMT

A timely message from Dr. Chad McDonald, DO, FACOFP, FAOAAM,

Chief Medical Officer at InterCommunity Health Care, Addiction Specialist and Family Medicine Osteopathic Physician

As we embark on National Addiction Recovery Month, it never ceases to amaze me how many patients and their loved ones remain unaware of the array of medications available to aid individuals grappling with addiction. In a world where information is at our fingertips, the lack of awareness about FDA-approved addiction recovery medications is surprising and concerning.

Addiction is a formidable adversary, affecting individuals, their families, and communities. Yet, there's a beacon of hope that often goes unnoticed: medications designed to alleviate the struggles that come with addiction. Astonishingly, many people are unaware of these treatments that can provide the necessary support during the arduous journey to recovery.

Take opioids, a class of drugs notorious for their addictive potential. The fact that medications like buprenorphine and methadone exist, capable of mitigating withdrawal symptoms and cravings, still remains a hidden gem for many. These medications are like life jackets in the tumultuous sea of opioid addiction, allowing individuals to regain control of their lives without the constant tug of cravings.

Alcohol use disorder, another prevalent challenge, can be addressed with medications such as naltrexone and acamprosate. These medications work by altering brain chemistry, reducing the appeal of alcohol, and helping to curb the desire to drink excessively. The idea that there are medications specifically designed to support those battling alcohol addiction is a revelation that could potentially change the trajectory of countless lives.

Even tobacco addiction, often overlooked in discussions of addiction, has not been left without medical aid. Nicotine replacement therapies and prescription medications like varenicline offer a multifaceted approach to quitting smoking by minimizing withdrawal symptoms and reducing the rewarding effects of nicotine. To think that these tools are available for those trying to break free from tobacco's grip is a message that needs to be amplified.

As a doctor, my goal is to heal and empower. The surprising reality is that many individuals struggling with addiction and their families are unaware that these medications exist, ready to provide substantial support in their recovery journey. This National Addiction Recovery Month , let us shed light on these lesser-known heroes—FDA-approved medications that can potentially revolutionize the battle against addiction.

It's time to break down the barriers of stigma and misinformation that shroud these medications. Awareness is the first step. By acknowledging the existence and effectiveness of these treatments, we can encourage those in need to seek help without hesitation or shame. It's high time we stand together to embrace the science and compassion that underlie addiction recovery, offering a brighter, medication-assisted path toward a healthier and addiction-free life.

September is National Recovery Month

Mon, 11 Sep 2023 18:34:24 GMT

Pathways to Recovery

Recovery is individualized and has many pathways: clinical, non-clinical and self-management pathways. Often, people utilize multiple paths. Following are a few examples:

Peer supported recovery involves the use of structured recovery mutual aid groups, peer recovery support specialists, recovery housing, collegiate recovery programs, and others to initiate and/or maintain recovery.

Treatment-assisted recovery uses professional help with a therapist, a doctor, or another credentialed professional. This can include medication, therapy, or a combination of the two.

Faith-based recovery support services are religious or spiritual frameworks of recovery that can include congregation-based support services that help during the recovery process.

Natural recovery occurs when a person achieves recovery from mental or substance use problems on their own through interpersonal and interpersonal resources without professional treatment or involvement in a recovery mutual aid community.

What works for one person may not work for another. It is important to support people in or seeking recovery as they make their own decisions about which pathway is right for them.

(From SAMHSA's National Recovery Month Toolkit)

August is Children’s Eye Health and Safety Month

Mon, 14 Aug 2023 18:51:34 GMT

August is Children’s Eye Health and Safety Month 2023

In the hustle and bustle of everyday life, we often take our children's vision for granted. That's why August is recognized as Children's Eye Health and Safety Month, a timely reminder for parents and caregivers to prioritize their young ones' visual well-being.

Children are highly vulnerable to eye-related issues and early detection is crucial. Many eye problems, such as refractive errors, amblyopia (lazy eye), and strabismus (crossed eyes), can be treated effectively if identified early on. Look for signs of eye problems in children, such as squinting, frequent headaches, rubbing eyes excessively, or holding objects too close.

Eye safety is equally vital during this month and beyond. Children are naturally curious and their explorations can sometimes lead to eye injuries. Create a safe environment by removing potential hazards such as sharp objects, harmful chemicals, and unsafe toys. When engaging in sports or outdoor activities, children should wear protective eyewear to prevent accidental eye injuries.

July is HIV Stigma and Hepatitis Awareness Month

Mon, 14 Aug 2023 18:48:13 GMT

July is HIV Stigma and Hepatitis Awareness Month

July is HIV Stigma and Hepatitis Awareness Month, a national health observance that raises awareness of HIV stigma and prevention of viral hepatitis.

Stigma and discrimination affect the mental and emotional well-being of people who live with HIV and can result in feelings of shame, despair, fear of social isolation, and reluctance to get tested or treated for HIV. Stigma takes the form of negative attitudes and beliefs about people with HIV and moral judgments about their choices and lifestyles. Stigma is often caused by a fear of the virus and misperceptions about how HIV is transmitted and treated.

The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) recommends talking openly about HIV to normalize the subject and correct misinformation. The CDC offers helpful materials on how to stop HIV stigma and discrimination, including a language guide. The words we use matter, and we can all do our part to stop HIV stigma by using supportive language when talking about HIV.

National Kidney Month

Sat, 11 Mar 2023 22:11:00 GMT

Did you know kidney disease is often referred to as a “silent disease,” because there are usually no symptoms during its early stages? In fact, as many as 90% of Americans who have chronic kidney disease (CKD) don’t know they have the disease until it is very advanced.

March is National Kidney Month , a campaign to raise awareness about kidney health and the prevention of kidney disease.

Kidney diseases are a leading cause of death in the United States, but the earlier that a diagnosis is made and treatment is started, the better the chances of leading a normal life.

Risk Factors: Talk to your doctor if you have risk factors for kidney disease, such as high blood pressue, diabetes, obesity, family history of chronic kidney disease, or heart disease.

Symptoms: People with CKD may not feel ill or notice any symptoms. The only way to find out for sure if you have CKD is through specific blood and urine tests. These tests include measurement of both the creatinine level in the blood and protein in the urine.

(Source: Centers for Disease Control)

The post National Kidney Month appeared first on InterCommunity .

February is American Heart Month

Sat, 11 Feb 2023 20:18:00 GMT

February is American Heart Month , a national campaign to raise awareness about heart health and the risk factors for heart disease.

Heart disease is still the leading cause of death for men and women and for people from most racial and ethnic groups in the United States. In fact, cardiovascular disease (CVD) and CVD mortality are increasing in working-age adults, and Black adults are among those bearing the highest burden of CVD and the related health consequences. Black adults in the United States die from heart disease at a rate two times higher than white adults.

In men, the risk for coronary heart disease (CHD) increases starting around age 45. In women, the risk for CHD increases starting around age 55. Fortunately, heart disease is largely preventable.

High blood pressure, high LDL cholesterol, an unhealthy diet, physical activity, excessive alcohol use, and smoking are key risk factors for heart disease. A family history of early heart disease is also a risk factor, especially if a father or brother is diagnosed before age 55, or a mother or sister is diagnosed before age 65. Most adults should have their blood pressure checked at least once a year, and more often if you already have high blood pressure.

By living a healthy lifestyle, you can help keep your blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar levels normal and lower your risk for heart disease and heart attack. See here for more information.

The post February is American Heart Month appeared first on InterCommunity .

January is National Birth Defects Awareness Month

Wed, 04 Jan 2023 18:35:00 GMT

January is National Birth Defects Awareness Month , a campaign to raise awareness about birth defects and their impact on individuals, parents, and families.

Birth defects can happen for many reasons and not all can be prevented. However, people can increase their chances of having a healthy baby by managing their medical conditions and adopting healthy behaviors before and during pregnancy.

Here are steps you can take to get ready for pregnancy, stay healthy during pregnancy, and give your baby a healthy start in life:

(Source: Centers for Disease Control)

The post January is National Birth Defects Awareness Month appeared first on InterCommunity .

Facing a Triple Epidemic

Thu, 08 Dec 2022 20:30:00 GMT

Public health experts are warning that Connecticut residents could face a triple threat of respiratory viruses this winter: RSV, flu, and COVID-19. RSV is a common virus that usually causes mild, cold-like symptoms. However, RSV can be serious for infants and older adults. It is the most common cause of bronchiolitis (inflammation of the small airways in the lung) and pneumonia in children younger than 1 year of age. In Connecticut, most reported cases of RSV have been in children from infancy to 9 years old.

RSV can be dangerous for babies and young children. According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) each year an estimated 58,000 – 80,000 children younger than 5 years old are hospitalized due to RSV. Children at greatest risk include premature infants and babies six months old and younger, children with weakened immune systems or neuromuscular disorders, and kids younger than 2 years old who have chronic lung disease or congenital heart disease.

The post Facing a Triple Epidemic appeared first on InterCommunity .

Managing Holiday Stress

Thu, 08 Dec 2022 20:26:00 GMT

Holiday parties, family gatherings, decorating, baking shopping, gift lists, card lists…While the holiday season can be a festive time to enjoy the company of family and friends, it can also bring a great deal of extra stress, financial pressures, and fewer opportunities to relax. It’s easy to let an exercise schedule to fall by the wayside. Healthy eating and getting enough sleep can be a challenge. But making your physical, mental, and financial health a priority during this time of year is the key to managing stress.

During times of stress, the body releases the hormones cortisol and adrenaline, which increase heart rate, constrict blood vessels, and cause a spike in blood pressure. Once the stressful event is over, blood pressure returns to normal. However, chronic stress and the continual release of these “fight or flight” hormones can damage the heart, blood vessels, and kidneys over time.

Some people deal with stress by overeating, smoking, or drinking too much. These behaviors, along with poor sleep and lack of exercise, may also raise the risk for high blood pressure, heart attack, and stroke.

Managing stress can reduce the risk of high blood pressure and improve health in general. A healthy lifestyle contributes to better emotional and physical well-being. Ways to deal with stress during the holiday season include:

The post Managing Holiday Stress appeared first on InterCommunity .

Is Lung Cancer Screening Right for You?

Sun, 06 Nov 2022 22:41:00 GMT

The only recommended screening test for lung cancer is low-dose computed tomography (also called a low-dose CT scan, or LDCT). During an LDCT scan, you lie on a table and an X-ray machine uses a low dose of radiation to make detailed images of your lungs. The scan only takes a few minutes and is not painful.

However, lung cancer screening is not without its risks. It is recommended only for adults who are at high risk for developing lung cancer because of their smoking history and age.

The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) recommends yearly lung cancer screening for people who:

A pack-year is smoking an average of one pack of cigarettes per day for one year. For example, a person could have a 20 pack-year history by smoking one pack a day for 20 years or two packs a day for 10 years.

Risks of Screening

Lung cancer screening has at least three risks:

If you are thinking about getting screened, talk to your doctor. If lung cancer screening is right for you, your doctor can refer you to a high-quality screening facility.

The best way to reduce your risk of lung cancer is to not smoke and to avoid secondhand smoke. Lung cancer screening is not a substitute for quitting smoking.

When Should Screening Stop?

The Task Force recommends that yearly lung cancer screening stop when the person being screened:

(Material sourced from the Centers for Disease Control)

The post Is Lung Cancer Screening Right for You? appeared first on InterCommunity .

Are Breast Cancer Treatments Improving?

Mon, 10 Oct 2022 00:04:00 GMT

A recent article in Yale Medicine notes that some breast cancer patients are getting less chemotherapy, or bypassing it entirely. Treatments are changing, and clinical trial results are showing that women with certain breast cancers may not need aggressive chemotherapy with its often debilitating, long-term side effects.

Chemotherapy, which is used to kill cancer cells, shrink tumors, and help make other treatments more effective, commonly causes fatigue, hair loss, nausea, and sometimes affects heart function. Long-term complications, though less common, include neuropathy, leukemia, and heart problems. Breast cancer patients who have good outcomes with less intensive medical treatments are likely to experience less anxiety and a higher quality of life.

The article notes that two types of breast cancer respond well to less aggressive chemo or even none at all: HR-positive, which is the largest breast cancer subtype, and HER2-positive, which was once a fatal disease in the past but is effectively treated now with limited chemotherapy. Specialized testing and genomic profiling tests can help doctors determine which patients will benefit from chemotherapy and which cancers are more likely to return. Depending on the type of breast cancer, targeted therapies and anti-estrogen therapies can also lower the risk of recurrence.

The post Are Breast Cancer Treatments Improving? appeared first on InterCommunity .

Breast Cancer Awareness Month

Sun, 09 Oct 2022 22:10:00 GMT

October is National Breast Cancer Awareness Month, a campaign that encourages women to learn about screening options and risk factors. Besides skin cancer, breast cancer is the most common cancer among American women, and mammograms are the best way to find breast cancer early, when it’s easier to treat. While most breast cancers are found in women who are age 50 and older, breast cancer also affects younger women. Men can also get breast cancer, although it is not common.

Risk factors for breast cancer include family history, age, and other factors. You can help to lower your risk of breast cancer by:

Read here for more information about risk factors for breast cancer.

The post Breast Cancer Awareness Month appeared first on InterCommunity .

Suicide Prevention Awareness Month

Fri, 09 Sep 2022 16:15:00 GMT

Suicide and suicidal behaviors are tragic reactions to life situations. Suicide Prevention Awareness Month is a reminder that we can all help to prevent suicide. People who are depressed and hopeless may fail to see any other way out of their problems, feel that things will never change, or think that others are better off without them.

The number one cause of suicide is depression, and while depression is almost always treatable, some people suffer with it in silence and don’t seek help. They may plan suicide without anyone suspecting how much in crisis they really are.

People may also impulsively take their own lives when they are under the influence of alcohol or other drugs, and are not thinking clearly. Sometimes a suicide attempt is a cry for help triggered by intense emotional pain. Other factors that can lead to suicide include severe mental illness such as psychosis, a terminal illness, abuse, or other trauma. Warning signs that someone is at risk of suicide include persistent depressed mood, loss of interest in activities and friends, isolation, and talking about death.

If you recognize a number of these symptoms in yourself or a friend, it’s critical to contact a mental health provider, physician, or suicide/crisis hotline for advice and help. Acting quickly can make the difference between life and death. The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline provides 24/7, free and confidential support for people in distress, prevention and crisis resources for you or your loved ones, and best practices for professionals. Their phone number is 1-800-273-8255 or just dial 988 for help.

The post Suicide Prevention Awareness Month appeared first on InterCommunity .

September is National Recovery Month

Fri, 09 Sep 2022 16:12:00 GMT

National Recovery Month is an annual campaign held every September to promote and support new evidence-based treatment and recovery practices, the nation’s strong and proud recovery community, and the dedication of health care providers and communities who make recovery in all its forms possible.

Alcohol and drug dependence and addiction, known as substance use disorders, are complex medical problems. Although addiction is considered by most medical researchers to be a chronic illness that can be successfully managed, like diabetes or high blood pressure, social stigma still prevents many people from getting the help that they need. However, recovery from substance use disorders is possible and many people can and do get better.

Treatment is the first step to recovery. Depending upon a thorough assessment of the person’s needs, treatment may involve:

Recovery from alcohol and drug problems is a process of change. Besides abstaining from the substance, the person learns how to manage relapse triggers and achieve better health and wellness, and improved quality of life. Sometimes there is a co-occurring mental health disorder that also needs to be treated.

About half of people who complete treatment for the first time continue their recovery, but others may relapse and need additional treatment or follow-up. Relapse is often a part of the recovery process and does not mean that treatment has failed, but that treatment needs to be adjusted or reinstated, or that another treatment should be tried.

The post September is National Recovery Month appeared first on InterCommunity .

Know the Facts about Prostate Cancer

Wed, 08 Jun 2022 19:30:00 GMT

Prostate cancer is one of the most common cancers and the second leading cause of cancer deaths in American men. While it is rare in men under age 50, the risk for prostate cancer increases as men age, with approximately one in nine men diagnosed with prostate cancer at some point during their lifetime. In 2022, more than 260,000 men are estimated to be diagnose d with prostate cancer.

Risk Factors

Risk factors for many cancers include smoking, being overweight, poor diet, and not getting enough exercise. While the causes of prostate cancer are unknown, risk factors may include the following:

Certain vitamins and hormones may also play a role in the development of prostate cancer.

Screening and Treatment

While there is no standard screening test for prostate cancer, two tests often used are the digital rectal exam (DRE) and prostate-specific antigen (PSA) blood test. PSA levels may be high in men with prostate cancer but can also be caused by other prostate problems. Screening for prostate cancer does have risks, such as inaccurate results, complications from follow-up tests, and possible over-treatment. Finding and treating prostate cancer may not improve a man’s health or increase lifespan. For these reasons, men should discuss with their doctors their risk for prostate cancer and the pros and cons of screening tests.

The post Know the Facts about Prostate Cancer appeared first on InterCommunity .

Men’s Top Health Threats

Wed, 08 Jun 2022 19:12:00 GMT

June is Men’s Health Month, a campaign encouraging men and boys to seek regular medical advice and early treatment for disease and injury.

Research shows that men tend to see their doctors less often than women do, and are more likely to wait until a health problem is serious before seeking help. According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), men, on average, die almost five years earlier than women. Heart disease, cancer, unintentional injuries, stroke, chronic respiratory disease, diabetes, and suicide are the leading causes of death for men.

Checkups and Screening

The Men’s Health Network recommends regular checkups and age-appropriate screenings for men, in consultation with their healthcare providers. Men with a family history of disease or who are members of a high risk group may benefit from early or more frequent screenings. Guidelines include:

Men’s emotional health is also important. While depression is common in both sexes, it often goes unrecognized and untreated in men. Symptoms may include irritability, sadness and loss of interest in activities one previously enjoyed, alcohol and drug abuse, risky behavior, and changes in eating and sleeping habits.

The post Men’s Top Health Threats appeared first on InterCommunity .

Patient Surveys

Thu, 26 May 2022 15:23:00 GMT

Are you an InterCommunity patient? Please take our survey to share your experiences at InterCommunity with us.

The post Patient Surveys appeared first on InterCommunity .

Buffalo and Laguna Woods Tragedies

Mon, 16 May 2022 20:47:00 GMT

Dear InterCommunity Health Care Staff and Supporters:

The horrific shootings this weekend in Buffalo, New York, of African Americans and in Laguna Woods, California, of Taiwanese Americans are tragic and disturbing on so many levels. We grieve for these victims and their families, and denounce the hate crimes that cause so much suffering to so many people.

While the continuing pandemic, social injustices, and racial inequity are just some of the challenges that our society continues to grapple with, we believe there is hope. We can join together as fellow citizens and never give up on the work of healing our nation’s painful divisions. The keys to strong and healthy communities are kindness, empathy, civility, and common ground.

Prevention of violence begins in early childhood with support for parents to raise emotionally healthy children. We need to identify and intervene with troubled individuals who threaten violence. At InterCommunity Health Care, we advocate for community-based and collaborative prevention and intervention strategies to address the social problems that lead to gun violence and hate crimes, and we are committed to reducing disparities. We encourage everyone to join in helping to build a just and peaceful society, and to always seek the commonalities that unite us all, while also respecting and being willing to learn about our differences.

– InterCommunity’s Executive Leadership Team: Kim Beauregard, Tyler Booth, Tracey Decker, Jeff Hughes, Michelle Smith Cotto, and Dr. Danilo Pangilinan; and the WE CARE Council.

The post Buffalo and Laguna Woods Tragedies appeared first on InterCommunity .

InterCommunity Hosting South Windsor Mental Health Support Groups

Fri, 13 May 2022 14:03:00 GMT

Intercommunity Health Care’s Director of Practice Management and School-Based Health Centers, Tricia Orozco, LCSW, and Behavioral Health Manager Maria Lawrence attended South Windsor’s lunch and learn with Senator Anwar hosted by Andrea Cofrancesco, Director of Human Services for the Town of South Windsor. The lunch and learn covered the legislative session and Covid-19 updates.

Intercommunity and the Town of South Windsor have partnered to offer behavioral health services to the residents of South Windsor. In addition to the topics below, we are hosting a bereavement group on June 3rd and June 17th at 3pm for South Windsor residents.

To attend or for more information, please contact the South Windsor Community Center at 860-648-6361 and ask for Andrea.

The Effects of a Pandemic and War on our Mental Health

It’s been a rough couple of years as we have navigated through a global pandemic: social isolation, anxiety, and finding a new normal. And now we are dealing with war and inflation. How are we dealing with it? Join Alexander Pepe, LCSW, from Intercommunity Health Care for a conversation on living through tough times and ways to cope with the additional stress in our lives.

The post InterCommunity Hosting South Windsor Mental Health Support Groups appeared first on InterCommunity .

Supporting Mental Health of Children and Teens

Wed, 04 May 2022 18:33:00 GMT

May is National Mental Health Awareness Month, a campaign to raise awareness of trauma and the impact it can have on the physical, emotional, and mental well-being of children, families, and communities. Even before the pandemic, symptoms of anxiety, depression, and other mental health disorders were increasing among youth, and disruptions in everyday life have caused long-standing stress among children and adults.

Family members and caregivers can play an important role in supporting the mental health of children and teens. Recommendations include the following:

Contact InterCommunity Health Center’s Children’s Services for help at 860-569-5900.

The post Supporting Mental Health of Children and Teens appeared first on InterCommunity .

Press Release: InterCommunity Health Care and East Hartford Public Schools Host Health Event

Wed, 27 Apr 2022 13:48:00 GMT

East Hartford, CT- InterCommunity Health Care is partnering with East Hartford Public Schools to host East Hartford Healthy Community Connections. This free, family-friendly event will feature activities about healthy eating, connect community members with resources for food access, and discuss how to eat and be healthy within one’s culture. The event is scheduled for May 11 ^th (May 12 ^th in case of rain) from 4:30-6:30pm at Early Childhood Learning Center at Hockanum School (191 Main St, East Hartford).

43% of East Hartford households do not earn enough money to meet their basic needs, causing food insecurity to be a big issue in the area. Event organizers hope to show community members how to overcome other barriers to food access and eat healthy even with a small budget.

“Every day we see students and families struggle to get food, especially healthy food. It is hard to be healthy mentally and physically while hungry,” said Tricia Orozco, Director of School-Based Health Centers at InterCommunity. “Participants will leave the event with a bag of food and connections to community resources to get help if they need it.” Families that attend will also be entered into a raffle to win prizes including cooking equipment and gift cards.

Supporters of this event include ShopRite, East Hartford Youth Services, Simply Chef Renee, United Way, East Hartford Hunger Action Team, East Hartford WIC, Sodexo, East Hartford Connects, and UConn SNAP-Ed. If community members have questions, they are encouraged to contact InterCommunity’s school-based health centers at ECLC (860-622-5450) or Mayberry Elementary (860-622-5731).

###

About InterCommunity Health Care :

InterCommunity Health Care provides high-quality primary care and behavioral health services to every member of the family in Hartford, East Hartford, and South Windsor and multiple school-based health centers. Patients can access care through our health clinics, school-based health centers, residential treatment facilities, in-home, and in the community. Patients can receive care in-person and via telehealth, regardless of their life situation or ability to pay.

The post Press Release: InterCommunity Health Care and East Hartford Public Schools Host Health Event appeared first on InterCommunity .

Press Release: InterCommunity Health Care Receives $550,000 Grant from East Hartford

Wed, 06 Apr 2022 18:40:00 GMT

Contact  

Tyler Booth, Vice President and COO

TylerBooth@intercommunityct.org

860-569-5900 x133

Karina Thorpe, Communications and Marketing Associate 

KarinaThorpe@intercommunityct.org  

860-569-5900 x280 

For Immediate Release 

InterCommunity Health Care Receives $550,000 Grant from East Hartford

East Hartford, CT – InterCommunity Health Care has received a $556,116 grant from the Town of East Hartford. This grant will support the expansion of InterCommunity’s flagship East Hartford campus to serve more people in a safe and welcoming health care environment.

The Main Street campus currently hosts one of InterCommunity’s nonprofit health care centers, which provided primary care, mental health care, and addiction recovery services to more than 6,000 adults and families in the Greater Hartford area in 2021. Expansion of this site will enable InterCommunity to engage the more than 1,200 low-income individuals living in East Hartford who are currently not served by local health centers.

“The bond funding will enable us to provide whole-person health care in an environment that sends the message of respect and quality the citizens of East Hartford deserve,” said Tyler Booth, Vice President and COO of InterCommunity.

“InterCommunity has been a strong community partner to the Town of East Hartford. It has expanded access to health care for adults and children through its local and school-based clinics, and so much more. I am grateful to Governor Lamont and the State Bond Commission for their support of this project and the work InterCommunity does to promote residents’ health and wellbeing,” said House Majority Leader Jason Rojas(D – East Hartford, Manchester). 

Since the start of COVID, InterCommunity has invested more than $2 million to create safe and state-of-the-art spaces across InterCommunity’s 17 sites in Hartford, East Hartford, South Windsor, and Glastonbury, CT.

### 

About InterCommunity:  

InterCommunity Health Care provides high-quality primary care, mental health care, and addiction recovery services to every member of the family in Hartford, East Hartford, South Windsor, and at multiple school-based health centers. Patients can access care through our health clinics, school-based health centers, residential treatment facilities, in-home, and in the community. Patients can receive care in-person and via telehealth, regardless of their life situation or ability to pay.  

The post Press Release: InterCommunity Health Care Receives $550,000 Grant from East Hartford appeared first on InterCommunity .

April is National Child Abuse Prevention Month

Tue, 05 Apr 2022 16:52:00 GMT

April is National Child Abuse Prevention Month, a reminder that we can all play a role in supporting the well-being of children and families, and prevent child abuse and neglect.

Shaken baby syndrome or abusive head trauma (SBS/AHT) refers to the serious brain injury that can occur if an infant or toddler is forcefully shaken or experiences blunt impact to the head. It is the leading cause of physical child abuse in the United States, and is often triggered by frustration with an infant’s crying.

According to the National Center on Shaken Baby Syndrome , approximately a quarter of infants who are shaken die from their injuries, and 80% suffer long-term health consequences such as hearing and vision problems, developmental delays, and physical and learning disabilities. It only takes a few seconds of violent shaking to cause severe injury or death.

Most cases of SBS/AHT happen to infants less than six months old. Parents or caregivers who admit they have shaken their baby say they did it out of frustration or anger that the baby would not stop crying.

Possible signs and symptoms of SBS/AHT may include:

Preventing SBS/AHT

Preventing SBS/AHT and other forms of child abuse involves support for children and parents, such as educating parents and caregivers about what to do when infants won’t stop crying, respite care for caregivers who are overwhelmed or dealing with their own mental health or substance use issues, and increased public awareness of the signs of child abuse and neglect.

A supportive and stable family environment and social networks can help keep children safe from harm. Parents and caregivers with nurturing parenting skills and understanding of children’s needs, help from other caring adults, and access to adequate health care and social services are other protective factors.

The post April is National Child Abuse Prevention Month appeared first on InterCommunity .

Helping a Family Member with Alcohol Use Disorder

Tue, 05 Apr 2022 16:34:00 GMT

Millions of Americans – of all income levels, ethnicities and social groups — misuse or are dependent on alcohol or other drugs. Most people who suffer from alcohol use disorder (AUD) have family members whose lives are also negatively impacted by the disease. People with AUD may experience financial, health, and job problems that can make their home lives stressful and chaotic.

Children in high-conflict families are especially vulnerable and are at a higher risk for emotional, physical, and mental health problems. Parents who have a substance use disorder are more likely to be involved with domestic violence, unemployment, divorce, legal issues, and experience health and psychological problems. Their ability to parent effectively is compromised and their behaviors may sometimes come across as unpredictable, confusing, and frustrating to those who love them.

The first step in helping a family member who has AUD is to educate yourself about the disease. Find as much support as you can – whether it’s through Al-Anon or other services that are available. You might also consider talking with a therapist. The good news is, people with AUD and other addictions can and do recover. Substance use disorders, including AUD, can be effectively treated with detox, medications, and behavioral interventions.

The post Helping a Family Member with Alcohol Use Disorder appeared first on InterCommunity .

Improving Outcomes with Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT)

Tue, 05 Apr 2022 16:11:00 GMT

April is Alcohol Awareness Month, a campaign with the aim of raising awareness about the causes and treatment available for alcohol use disorder (AUD) and to reduce social stigma. AUD is considered a brain disorder that can be mild, moderate, or severe. The good news is, no matter how severe the problem may seem, evidence-based treatment with medications, behavioral therapies, support groups can help people with AUD achieve and maintain recovery.

MAT is an evidence-based treatment approach that helps clients by relieving their withdrawal symptoms and psychological cravings. The FDA has approved several medications to treat substance use disorder, such as Suboxone, Sublocade, and Vivitrol. Suboxone decreases the severity of withdrawal symptoms and reduce a patient’s dependence on opioids in the long term. It is taken orally on a daily basis. Sublocade (buprenorphine), is given by injection once a month for adults with moderate to severe opioid use disorder.

Dependence on alcohol or opioids can also be treated with naltrexone, which works by blocking the effect of opioid receptors and decreasing cravings and urges to use alcohol or opioids. Vivitrol, a brand name prescription drug, is naltrexone that is injected intramuscularly once a month. Acamprosate, disulfiram, and naltrexone are the most common medications used to treat alcohol use disorder. Buprenorphine, methadone, and naltrexone are commonly used to treat opioid use disorders.

Besides stabilizing people, MAT can help to sustain recovery and is also used to prevent or reduce opioid overdose. This treatment option has been shown to reduce relapse and improve patient survival, increase retention in treatment, increase the individual’s ability to gain and maintain employment, and improve birth outcomes among women who are pregnant and have substance use disorders.

At InterCommunity Health Care, MAT programs are clinically driven and tailored to meet each patient’s needs. Call 860-569-5900 to learn more or make an appointment.

The post Improving Outcomes with Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) appeared first on InterCommunity .

March is Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month

Wed, 02 Mar 2022 21:39:00 GMT

Colorectal cancer is common in men and women and is the third leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the United States.

Many colorectal cancers begin as precancerous polyps (abnormal growths) in the colon or rectum. Polyps may not cause any symptoms, especially early on, and can be present for many years before they become cancerous. Screening can detect precancerous polyps so they can be removed before they turn into cancer. Screening can also find colorectal cancer early, when treatment is most effective.

Your risk of getting colorectal cancer increases as you get older. Other risk factors include having inflammatory bowel disease, such as Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis, a personal or family history of colorectal cancer or colorectal polyps, and inherited genetic syndromes.

Factors related to lifestyle that can increase your risk include a lack of physical activity, a poor diet low in fruits and vegetables and low in fiber, a diet high in fats and red, charred, and processed meats. Alcohol and tobacco use are also linked to colorectal cancer. You can possibly lower your risk of colorectal cancer by maintaining a healthy weight, avoiding tobacco, limiting alcohol use, eating a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and fiber, and increasing your physical activity.

(Source: Centers for Disease Control)

The post March is Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month appeared first on InterCommunity .

When Should You be Screened for Colorectal Cancer?

Wed, 02 Mar 2022 21:18:00 GMT

Most people should begin screening for colorectal cancer soon after turning age 45, and continue getting screened at regular intervals. However, you may need to be tested earlier than 45, or more often than other people. For example, you may need screening earlier or more often if you have:

If you think you are at increased risk for colorectal cancer, speak with your doctor about—

Several screening tests can be used to find polyps or colorectal cancer. Check out the different screening tests available.

(Source: Centers for Disease Control)

The post When Should You be Screened for Colorectal Cancer? appeared first on InterCommunity .

March 10 is National Women and Girls HIV/AIDS Awareness Day

Wed, 02 Mar 2022 21:09:00 GMT

Did you know that in 2019, women made up 20% of all new cases of HIV in the United States?

HIV is spread through body fluids such as blood, semen, or breast milk. The risk of getting or transmitting HIV varies widely depending on the type of exposure or behavior. Most commonly, people get or transmit HIV through anal or vaginal sex, or sharing needles, syringes, or other drug injection equipment—for example, cookers.

You can get HIV when you:

You can’t get HIV from :

March is Problem Gambling Awareness Month

Wed, 02 Mar 2022 19:50:00 GMT

For many people, gambling is a hidden addiction. National Problem Gambling Awareness Month is intended to raise public awareness about gambling disorder and the availability of prevention, treatment, and recovery services.

How do you know when gambling has crossed the line from a harmless activity to a problem? Signs include:

A gambling disorder can result in serious financial consequences and contribute to poor mental and physical health. The good news is, recovery is possible. Treatment for gambling disorder may include cognitive behavioral therapy and family therapy, medications such as anti-depressants and mood stabilizers, and self-help groups such as Gamblers Anonymous.

Although anyone can develop a gambling problem, gambling disorders are more common in men than women, and in young and middle-aged people. Research shows there are certain risk factors that can increase the likelihood of a gambling disorder, such as:

The post March is Problem Gambling Awareness Month appeared first on InterCommunity .

School-Based Health Centers Fill Gaps in Kids’ Health Care

Wed, 16 Feb 2022 19:24:00 GMT

Why School-Based Health Centers Matter

February is National School-Based Health Center Awareness Month , a campaign to raise awareness of the valuable services offered by school-based health centers (SBHCs). Many parents across Connecticut struggle to access health care services for their children. Lack of health care is a problem that no one, especially children, should face. That is why, as part of InterCommunity Health Care’s mission to provide affordable and accessible healthcare to all, we work with schools to provide health care for kids.

Intercommunity’s school-based health centers (SBHCs) serve nearly 2,500 students in seven East Hartford schools. The services go beyond those of the school nurse to support every student’s physical, mental, and emotional wellbeing.

Licensed by the Department of Public Health, SBHCs give students, including those with limited or no insurance, access to free mental and physical health services within the schools. SBHCs minimize disruptions to learning and eliminate transportation, financial, and other traditional barriers to care.

“The services are right there,” says Joe Leroy, Principal of Mayberry Elementary. “Parents can schedule appointments, have their child enrolled, and be seen during the school day on-site, which results in minimal disruption to their child’s academic day and the parent’s work-day.”

Since January of 2021, InterCommunity’s SBHCs have provided around 10,000 mental health and primary care visits. Nearly 6,000 are mental health services including counseling, crisis intervention, and mental health screenings. The remaining include primary care services such as physicals, vaccines, treatment of ongoing conditions, and lab testing. While the centers do not replace pediatricians, they do provide essential care for hundreds of kids without insurance.

Sharon Bremner, Director of Pupil Personnel Services for East Hartford Public Schools, explains the importance of these services. “The centers play a vital role in the community when families may not have access to a pediatrician. It’s a way for a child starting the school year to get their up-to-date physicals and vaccinations. It’s a great opportunity for our families.”

Addressing the Major Issues

In a statement from December 2021, U.S. Surgeon General Dr. Vivek Murthy stressed the need to address the youth mental health crisis. Limited resources make addressing these needs challenging for schools.

“With the pandemic and the increasing need for children’s mental health care, [SBHCs] have played a tremendous role in being able to support our kids,” said Bremner.

Staff see students needing more support around depression and anxiety, trauma, absenteeism (missing school), nutrition, and food insecurity.

“Food insecurity is a huge issue,” says Tricia Orozco, InterCommunity’s Director of SBHCs.

Though one of the richest states in the country, 11.9% of CT residents are considered food insecure (not having reliable access to a sufficient amount of affordable, nutritious food). East Hartford is one of the state’s top five cities for food insecurity. Sixty-one percent of East Hartford public school students qualify for free or reduced lunch. In August 2020, United Way reported that 43% of households in East Hartford do not earn enough money to meet their basic human needs. Black and Hispanic residents are most impacted.

SBHCs have resources to help including a food pantry at Mayberry Elementary School and partnerships with Food Share CT to host holiday food drives. However, we continue to see more demand.

InterCommunity recently received a grant from CIGNA to launch a food access program. This program will work within the SBHCs to link students and their families with community resources, education and activities about healthy eating, and other tools.

“When basic health needs and/or social-emotional needs are met, [kids] are more successful in school,” Leroy said. “Teachers utilize SBHCs not as something extra, but as an addition to our team.”

Going Above and Beyond

Every day InterCommunity staff work hard to address students’ needs.

“Our SBHCs staff go above and beyond their job description,” Orozco said, “They are compassionate and caring. They have offered services throughout the pandemic in person and reduced barriers to care for parents and students. I’m proud to oversee this team of dedicated employees.”

This work would not be possible without collaboration and support of the East Hartford Board of Education, the Administration of the East Hartford Public Schools (EHPS), the faculty, community stakeholders, students, and families.

“Thank you to the administration of the EHPS for partnering with us. We appreciate the strong relationships that we have built with you,” said Orozco. “And a thank you to the East Hartford community for welcoming us into your schools.”

How to Enroll Your Child

SBHC services are available in English and Spanish to students enrolled in the following schools: East Hartford High, Synergy Alternative, East Hartford Middle, Mayberry Elementary, Silver Lane Elementary, Langford, and Early Childhood Learning Center (ECLC) at Hockanum School. Enroll your child in SBHC services by calling the school directly. For more information, please visit the SBHCs page .

The post School-Based Health Centers Fill Gaps in Kids’ Health Care appeared first on InterCommunity .

Heart Disease and African Americans

Wed, 02 Feb 2022 22:41:00 GMT

While heart disease is the leading cause of death for all Americans, heart disease develops earlier and deaths from heart disease are higher in African Americans, due in part to risk factors such as high blood pressure, obesity, and diabetes.

The statistics are sobering: in 2018, African Americans were 30 percent more likely to die from heart disease than non-Hispanic whites. Although African American adults are 40 percent more likely to have high blood pressure, they are less likely than non-Hispanic whites to have their blood pressure under control. In addition, African American women were nearly 60 percent more likely to have high blood pressure, as compared to non-Hispanic white women.

The risk factors for heart diseases, such as hypertension, diabetes, obesity, and sleep disorders are more common in African Americans even at a young age. Social and economic factors may include cost barriers and difficulty accessing quality health care, and higher poverty rate, and poor diet quality.

The post Heart Disease and African Americans appeared first on InterCommunity .

Warning Signs of Heart Disease

Wed, 02 Feb 2022 18:44:00 GMT

While there are many similarities in the symptoms of heart disease in men and women, there are even more differences. Some women have no symptoms, while others may experience pain or discomfort in the chest area, or in the neck, throat or jaw, or in the upper abdomen or back. Warning signs of heart disease include:

See here for more information on symptoms of heart attack and stroke.

Risk Factors

High blood pressure, high LDL cholesterol, and smoking are key risk factors for heart disease. Other risk factors include:

Screening

Screening for heart disease generally includes regular blood pressure checks, exercising, making healthy food choices, managing chronic conditions such as diabetes, and controlling “bad” cholesterol levels. Click here for more information on reducing your risk of heart disease.

The post Warning Signs of Heart Disease appeared first on InterCommunity .

American Heart Month

Wed, 02 Feb 2022 17:23:00 GMT

February is American Heart Month, an annual national campaign to raise awareness about heart health and urge Americans to lower their risk for heart disease. Heart disease is the leading cause of death for men and women in the United States but fortunately, there are several ways to lower your risk.

High blood pressure, high LDL cholesterol, and smoking are key risk factors for heart disease. Other risk factors include a family history of heart disease, diabetes, being overweight or obese, poor diet, physical inactivity, and excessive alcohol use. Both children and adults can develop high blood pressure, especially if they are overweight or have diabetes.

You can make changes to lower your risk of developing heart disease. People who already have heart disease should be especially careful to control risk factors. For example, if you drink alcohol, only drink in moderation. Other ways to lower your risk include the following:

The post American Heart Month appeared first on InterCommunity .

Black History Month giveaway!

Thu, 27 Jan 2022 21:09:00 GMT

February is Black History Month! To celebrate, InterCommunity will be hosting a Black History Month book giveaway. Each week’s drawing will run from Thursday-Wednesday, with the winners (2 per week) contacted Wednesday afternoon via email or phone. Winners will have the option to pick up their prizes at our office or have them mailed to you. If you do not win, don’t worry! If you enter and don’t win, you will remain entered to win the following week. So, keep an eye on your email! The final two winners will be selected on Wed., Feb 23, 2022.

Books we will be giving away:

Week 1:

Week 2:

Week 3:

Week 4:

The post Black History Month giveaway! appeared first on InterCommunity .

Naxolone Training and Education

Wed, 26 Jan 2022 14:27:00 GMT

The opioid epidemic continues to have deadly outcomes for people across the country. The impacts of this epidemic are felt not only by the loved ones of those affected by this crisis but by communities at large that struggle to get people the help they need.

The American Heart Association and the American Society of Anesthesiologists recommend making Naloxone, an overdose reversal drug, available to all– not just health professionals and emergency responders. However, granting access to this life-saving drug is not enough. Community members must be educated on proper Naloxone use to avoid dangerous side effects.

You can learn more about their recommendations here . The American Heart Association also provides educational resources about what an overdose looks like and proper Naloxone administration here .

The post Naxolone Training and Education appeared first on InterCommunity .

When Someone You Love has an Opioid Addiction

Mon, 03 Jan 2022 21:03:00 GMT

Most people who suffer from addiction have family members whose lives are also negatively impacted by the disease. People with an addiction may experience financial, health, and job problems that can make their home lives stressful and chaotic. They may demonstrate behaviors that come across as unpredictable, confusing, and frustrating to those who love them.

The first step in helping a family member who has an addiction is to educate yourself about the disease. Find as much support as you can – whether it’s through Al-Anon, Nar-Anon, or other services that are available. Substance use disorders can be effectively treated with detox, medications, and behavioral interventions. Download SAMHSA’s booklet for families on substance use treatment here.

The post When Someone You Love has an Opioid Addiction appeared first on InterCommunity .

Rising Drug Overdose Deaths in Connecticut

Mon, 03 Jan 2022 21:01:00 GMT

Drug overdose deaths in Connecticut have been on the rise for the past several years. According to the Connecticut Department of Public Health, there were 1,378 confirmed drug overdose deaths for 2020, an increase of 14.3% compared to 2019. As of November 2021, there were 1,249 drug overdose deaths. Fentanyl and fentanyl analogs were involved in the majority of deaths, and lethal combinations of xylazine and fentanyl have continued to be a problem in 2021.

Research shows that a combination of medication and therapy can successfully treat substance use disorders, and for some people struggling with addiction, medication-assisted treatment (MAT) can help sustain recovery. MAT is also used to prevent or reduce opioid overdose. Medication-assisted treatment (MAT) is the use of medications, in combination with counseling and behavioral therapies, to provide a “whole-patient” approach to the treatment of substance use disorders. At InterCommunity Health Care, MAT programs are clinically driven and tailored to meet each patient’s needs.

The FDA has approved several different medications to treat a wide range of substance use disorders. MAT medications relieve the withdrawal symptoms and psychological cravings that cause chemical imbalances in the body. For example, Suboxone decreases the severity of withdrawal symptoms and reduce a patient’s dependence on opioids in the long term and is taken orally on a daily basis. Another option for patients at InterCommunity is Sublocade (buprenorphine), which is given by injection once a month for adults with moderate to severe opioid use disorder.

Patients can access addiction recovery services at InterCommunity with or without insurance. Call 860-569-5900 for more information or to schedule an appointment. Read here for more information on MAT and common misconceptions.

The post Rising Drug Overdose Deaths in Connecticut appeared first on InterCommunity .

Youth Mental Health: What Family Members and Caregivers Can Do

Mon, 03 Jan 2022 20:58:00 GMT

Family members and caregivers can play an important role in supporting the mental health of children and teens. Recommendations from the U.S. Surgeon General’s report include the following:

The good news is, mental health issues are treatable. Resources for help for children and adults include mental health care at InterCommunity’s Outpatient Children’s Clinic, InterCommunity’s East Hartford school based health centers, and health centers located in Hartford, East Hartford, and South Windsor. A diagnosis can determine the most effective treatment available, which may be medication, therapy, or a combination of both. Call us at 860-569-5900 for an appointment.

The post Youth Mental Health: What Family Members and Caregivers Can Do appeared first on InterCommunity .

Youth Mental Health: A Call to Action

Mon, 03 Jan 2022 20:56:00 GMT

In December 2021, the U.S. Surgeon released a report and call to action regarding youth mental health. School closures and interruptions in learning, the number of deaths from COVID, social isolation, missed milestone events, and economic instability due to the pandemic have caused unprecedented stress in children and adults, and a significant and alarming increase in mental health issues.

Recent research shows that symptoms of anxiety and depression have doubled among youth, with 25 percent reporting symptoms of depression and 20 percent reporting symptoms of anxiety. In addition, suspected suicide attempts skyrocketed in 2021, particularly among adolescent girls. Youth most at risk for mental health symptoms during the pandemic include those with previous mental health challenges, those who have experienced trauma, food and housing insecurity, those whose parents are frontline workers, and those who have endured more disruptions to normal routines, among other factors.

Even before the pandemic, surveys showed that youth mental health was suffering. The report notes that from 2009 to 2019, the proportion of high school students reporting persistent feelings of sadness and hopelessness increased by 40 percent. Suicidal ideation also increased, as did youth visits to emergency departments for depression, anxiety, and other mental health symptoms.

Groups at higher risk for mental health challenges include youth with intellectual and developmental disabilities, low-income youth, youth belonging to ethnic and racial minorities, youth in rural areas, immigrant households, LGBTQ+ youth, those involved with the juvenile justice or child welfare systems, and runaway youth and those experiencing homelessness. Many youths are part of more than one high-risk group, such as those from a low-income family who have lost a parent to COVID-19.

Resources for help for children and adults include mental health care at InterCommunity’s Outpatient Children’s Clinic, InterCommunity’s East Hartford school based health centers, and health centers located in Hartford, East Hartford, and South Windsor. A diagnosis can determine the most effective treatment available, which may be medication, therapy, or a combination of both. Call us at 860-569-5900 for an appointment.

(Source: “Protecting Youth Mental Health: The U.S. Surgeon General’s Advisory, Dec 7, 2021)

The post Youth Mental Health: A Call to Action appeared first on InterCommunity .

InterCommunity DEI Initiatives

Mon, 03 Jan 2022 20:53:00 GMT

Below is a summary of InterCommunity work on Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion initiatives:

The post InterCommunity DEI Initiatives appeared first on InterCommunity .

Protecting Your Partner

Tue, 07 Dec 2021 22:56:00 GMT

Getting and keep an undetectable viral load is the best thing you can do to stay healthy and protect others. If you take HIV medicine and get and keep an undetectable viral load, you have effectively no risk of transmitting HIV to an HIV-negative partner through sex.

A few people cannot get an undetectable viral load even though they take HIV medicine as prescribed. If your viral load is not undetectable—or does not stay undetectable—you can still protect your partners by using other prevention options.

For example you can encourage your partner to take PrEP, a medicine that people at risk for HIV take to prevent HIV. If taken as prescribed, PrEP is highly effective for preventing HIV from sex and injection drug use.

Condoms are highly effective in preventing HIV and other sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), like gonorrhea and chlamydia. Use water-based or silicone-based lubricants to help prevent condoms from breaking or slipping during sex.

Another option is to choose sexual activities with little to no risk. You can’t transmit HIV through sexual activities that don’t involve contact with body fluids (semen, vaginal fluid, or blood).

Get tested and treated for other sexually-transmitted diseases (STDs). If you get and keep an undetectable viral load, getting an STD does not appear to increase the risk of transmitting HIV. But STDs can cause other problems. If you have a detectable viral load, getting tested and treated for other STDs can help lower your chances of transmitting HIV.

Source: https://www.cdc.gov/hiv/basics/livingwithhiv/protecting-others.html

The post Protecting Your Partner appeared first on InterCommunity .

Living with HIV

Tue, 07 Dec 2021 21:34:00 GMT

The CDC recommends starting treatment as soon as possible after a diagnosis. Get medical care and take medicine to treat HIV (called antiretroviral therapy or ART). Taking HIV medicine can reduce the amount of HIV in the blood (called viral load ).

HIV medicine can make the viral load very low (called viral suppression ). Viral suppression is defined as having less than 200 copies of HIV per milliliter of blood.

HIV medicine can make the viral load so low that a test can’t detect it (called an undetectable viral load ).

Getting and keeping an undetectable viral load (or staying virally suppressed) is the best thing you can do to stay healthy. Having an undetectable viral load also helps prevent transmission to others. In fact, if you have an undetectable viral load, you have effectively no risk of transmitting HIV to an HIV-negative partner through sex. Most people can get the virus under control within six months.

(Source: https://www.cdc.gov/hiv/basics/livingwithhiv/newly-diagnosed.html)

The post Living with HIV appeared first on InterCommunity .

December is National Impaired Driving Prevention Month

Tue, 07 Dec 2021 21:17:00 GMT

In an average year, 30 million Americans drive drunk, and 10 million Americans drive impaired by illicit drugs. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), every day in the US, approximately 29 people, or one person every 50 minutes, die in motor vehicle crashes involving a substance-impaired driver.

As alcohol levels rise in a person’s system, the negative effects on the central nervous system increase. Alcohol is absorbed directly through the walls of the stomach and small intestine. Then it passes into the bloodstream where it accumulates until it is metabolized by the liver. A person’s alcohol level is measured by the weight of the alcohol in a certain volume of blood. This is called Blood Alcohol Concentration, or BAC. At a BAC of .08 grams of alcohol per deciliter (g/dL) of blood, crash risk increases exponentially. Because of this risk, it’s illegal in all 50 states, the District of Columbia and Puerto Rico to drive with a BAC of .08 or higher, except in Utah where the BAC limit is .05.

However, even a small amount of alcohol can affect driving ability. In 2019, there were 1,775 people killed in alcohol-related crashes where a driver had a BAC of .01 to .07 g/dL.

(Source: https://www.nhtsa.gov/risky-driving/drunk-driving)

The post December is National Impaired Driving Prevention Month appeared first on InterCommunity .

Warning Signs of a Substance Use Disorder

Tue, 07 Dec 2021 21:14:00 GMT

Millions of people in the United States suffer from alcohol and substance use disorders

People from all walks of life can develop an alcohol or substance use disorder. When a person has a physical and emotional dependence on the substance, he/she continues to use even if it causes serious problems. These problems often include neglecting responsibilities at home, work, or school, and experiencing legal, financial, relationship, and health issues. Warning signs and symptoms of dependence and addiction include:

The opioid epidemic has brought public attention to the dangers of abusing prescription opiates, in addition to street drugs such as heroin. Rates of overdose in the United States have skyrocketed over the past few years, and many organizations now hold community trainings on how to administer naloxone, a fast-acting drug that can reverse opiate overdose and save a person’s life.

Helping a person who has a substance use disorder usually means getting professional help for him/her. Although addiction is a serious and chronic medical disorder, it can be treated and successfully managed. Research shows that the most effective treatments include detoxification from the drug followed by therapy and medication-assisted treatment. (MAT) Recovery involves addressing physical and mental health issues and social problems that can cause relapse. Many people need long-term treatment and follow-up, or repeated care, in order to stop using drugs and stay drug-free. Alcoholics Anonymous (AA), Narcotics Anonymous (NA), Al-Anon, Nar-Anon and other similar groups can provide support for the individual and his/her family members.

The post Warning Signs of a Substance Use Disorder appeared first on InterCommunity .

Treating Diabetes

Tue, 02 Nov 2021 16:00:00 GMT

New medications and technological advances are shaping diabetes management and allowing for more individualized patient care. Glucose-sensing technologies have replaced the nuisance of daily, multiple finger pricks, allowing diabetics to see their blood sugar throughout the day and night with a sensor that is inserted under the skin. Digital patches and insulin pumps make the dosage of insulin more precise. Other recent innovations include insulin pens that connect via Bluetooth to a smartphone app and keeps track of insulin dose and timing.

When it comes to drugs, there are three new and effective types of tablets, called Semaglutide, Glucagon, and Liraglutide that are most effective in treating Type 2 diabetes. Another promising treatment is a new, once-a-week injectable insulin proved to be as effective as daily insulin injections. This new treatment could provide a convenient alternative to daily insulin shots.

The post Treating Diabetes appeared first on InterCommunity .

November is National Diabetes Month

Tue, 02 Nov 2021 15:58:00 GMT

November is National Diabetes Month. An estimated 26.9 million Americans – or 8.2 percent of the population, have been diagnosed with diabetes. This year the campaign’s focus is on prediabetes and preventing diabetes.

Prediabetes is a serious health condition where your blood sugar levels are higher than normal, but not high enough yet to be diagnosed as type 2 diabetes. According to the CDC, more than 1 in 3 U.S. adults have prediabetes—that’s 88 million people—but the majority of people aren’t aware they have it.

The good news is that by making small healthy lifestyle changes, it’s possible to prevent type 2 diabetes and even reverse prediabetes.

Here are some tips to help manage prediabetes and prevent diabetes.

(Source: National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK), part of the National Institutes of Health.)

The post November is National Diabetes Month appeared first on InterCommunity .

InterCommunity Thanks Sponsors and Donors

Sun, 31 Oct 2021 16:57:00 GMT

More than 100 people attended InterCommunity Health Care’s virtual Gala on October 28, 2021, raising funds to support InterCommunity’s primary care, mental health care, and addiction recovery services in the community. We thank all of our sponsors and donors, our host for the evening, June Archer, and all of our special guests that helped us to Light up the Night!

The post InterCommunity Thanks Sponsors and Donors appeared first on InterCommunity .

The Link Between Diet and Breast Cancer

Mon, 11 Oct 2021 21:38:00 GMT

Nutrition can have an impact on the risk of developing many types of cancer. The American Cancer Society recommends maintaining a healthy weight and eating a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains to reduce the risk of breast cancer. Try to limit or avoid highly processed foods such as bacon, deli meat, sausage, refined grains, sugary beverages, and alcohol. Not sure how to get started?

The post The Link Between Diet and Breast Cancer appeared first on InterCommunity .

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month

Mon, 11 Oct 2021 20:46:00 GMT

Breast cancer is the second most common type of cancer in American women.

Women in the United States get breast cancer more than any other type of cancer except skin cancer . Breast cancer is second to lung cancer as a cause of cancer death in American women. Deaths from breast cancer have decreased slightly each year between 2013 and 2017. Breast cancer also occurs in men, but the number of new cases is small.

Breast Cancer Prevention

KEY POINTS

Avoiding risk factors and increasing protective factors may help prevent cancer.

Avoiding cancer risk factors may help prevent certain cancers. Risk factors include smoking, being overweight , and not getting enough exercise. Increasing protective factors such as quitting smoking and exercising may also help prevent some cancers. Talk to your doctor or other health care professional about how you might lower your risk of cancer.

NCI’s Breast Cancer Risk Assessment Tool uses a woman’s risk factors to estimate her risk for breast cancer during the next five years and up to age 90. This online tool is meant to be used by a health care provider . For more information on breast cancer risk, call 1-800-4-CANCER.

(Source: National Cancer Institute)

The post October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month appeared first on InterCommunity .

Medication-Assisted Treatment: An Interview with Dr. Chad McDonald

Wed, 08 Sep 2021 21:33:00 GMT

Medication-assisted treatment (MAT) is the use of medications, in combination with counseling and behavioral therapies, to provide a “whole-patient” approach to the treatment of substance use disorders. At InterCommunity Health Care, MAT programs are clinically driven and tailored to meet each patient’s needs.Research shows that a combination of medication and therapy can successfully treat these disorders, and for some people struggling with addiction, MAT can help sustain recovery. MAT is also used to prevent or reduce opioid overdose.

“Outcomes are so much better with MAT than without medications,” stated Dr. Chad McDonald. Dr. McDonald is Director of Medical Services at InterCommunity Health Care and is an Addiction Specialist and Family Medicine Osteopathic Physician. “Addiction is a chronic brain disease that can be treated and managed with medication, much like other chronic medical conditions. Yet there is still so much stigma experienced by people with addictive disorders. Many of the negative attitudes towards MAT among patients, their doctors, and their peers may come from misunderstandings of how these treatments work.”

“Medications stabilize people,” notes Dr. McDonald. “At InterCommunity, we have the capacity to treat an extended number of people with substance use disorders. For example, all primary care providers at InterCommunity can prescribe Suboxone, which is a combination of buprenorphine and naloxone.”

Suboxone decreases the severity of withdrawal symptoms and reduce a patient’s dependence on opioids in the long term and is taken orally on a daily basis. Another option for patients at InterCommunity is Sublocade (buprenorphine), which is given by injection once a month for adults with moderate to severe opioid use disorder.

“There are pros and cons for each medication option. With a once-a-month shot, for example, medication compliance is less of a factor and it’s harder to self-sabotage,” Dr. McDonald stated. “At InterCommunity, we work with every client to find the best solution. There aren’t many organizations that offer such comprehensive addiction services, from detox to intensive and intermediate residential programs and outpatient treatment. We offer truly holistic care and address the social determinants of health.”

Read here for more information on MAT and common misconceptions.

Patients can access care at InterCommunity with or without insurance. Call 860-569-5900 for more information or to schedule an appointment.

The post Medication-Assisted Treatment: An Interview with Dr. Chad McDonald appeared first on InterCommunity .

Helping a Family Member who has an Addiction

Wed, 08 Sep 2021 20:10:00 GMT

Millions of Americans – of all income levels, ethnicities and social groups — misuse or are dependent on alcohol or other drugs. Most people who suffer from addiction have family members whose lives are also negatively impacted by the disease. People with an addiction may experience financial, health, and job problems that can make their home lives stressful and chaotic.

Children in high-conflict families are especially vulnerable and are at a higher risk for emotional, physical, and mental health problems. Parents who have an addiction are more likely to be involved with domestic violence, unemployment, divorce, legal issues, and experience health and psychological problems. Their ability to parent effectively is compromised. Often people with an addiction demonstrate behaviors that come across as unpredictable, confusing, and frustrating to those who love them.

The first step in helping a family member who has an addiction is to educate yourself about the disease. Find as much support as you can – whether it’s through Al-Anon, Nar-Anon, or other services that are available. The good news is, people with addictions can and do recover. Substance use disorders can be effectively treated with detox, medications, and behavioral interventions.

The post Helping a Family Member who has an Addiction appeared first on InterCommunity .

Helping Someone in Crisis

Wed, 08 Sep 2021 19:33:00 GMT

Do you know what to do if a friend or family member is overwhelmed and in crisis? One in every 5 American adults experiences mental illness in a given year, but many are never diagnosed or receive treatment. Stressors at home, work, or school can lead to panic attacks, depression, anxiety, substance use, unusual or risky behavior, self-harm, and suicidal thoughts. While it can be unnerving to see someone you care about suffer emotional distress, your help and support can make a difference.

Signs that a person is in an emotional crisis include the following:

Sometimes these changes are sudden, but behavioral changes may also be gradual.

You can show support for someone in crisis by letting them know you’re concerned about their health and safety. You can start the conversation by telling them what you’ve noticed specifically and why you’re worried, and ask if they want to talk about it. Try deep listening, which is paying close attention to the person’s words, emotions, and body language. Avoid interrupting, jumping to conclusions, blaming, or judging. Assure the person that you’re there for them. Stay calm and ask how you can help.

If you think the person is at risk of suicide, it’s a medical emergency and it’s important to get professional help immediately. Don’t try to resolve the situation yourself and never agree to “keep it a secret” if the person expresses suicidal thoughts. If the person has been seeing a psychiatrist or therapist, start there. If not or you can’t reach the person’s healthcare provider, call 911 or the National Suicide Prevention Line at 1-800-273-8255. Remove access to firearms and other weapons, as well as medications. Stay with the person until help arrives, and continue to express your support and concern. Your intervention can make the difference in getting your loved one the care they need to get through the crisis and beyond.

The post Helping Someone in Crisis appeared first on InterCommunity .

Join us on Thursday, Oct 28, 2021 for our Gala!

Wed, 01 Sep 2021 18:22:00 GMT

This is InterCommunity Health Care’s annual signature event, raising funds to continue our many programs in the community. Check out this link for the line-up of exciting speakers and entertainment!

The post Join us on Thursday, Oct 28, 2021 for our Gala! appeared first on InterCommunity .

Looking for a New Career?

Tue, 24 Aug 2021 19:36:00 GMT

Join us on Thursday, August 25, 2021 for InterCommunity’s Job Fair from 12 – 3 pm at 800 Connecticut Boulevard in East Hartford! We have many openings — bring your resume and please wear a face mask.

The post Looking for a New Career? appeared first on InterCommunity .

Treating Opioid Use Disorders

Mon, 02 Aug 2021 19:51:00 GMT

Medications, including buprenorphine (Suboxone ^® , Subutex ^® ), methadone, and extended release naltrexone (Vivitrol ^® ), are effective for the treatment of opioid use disorders. Medications should be combined with behavioral counseling for a “whole patient” approach, known as Medication Assisted Treatment (MAT).

MAT is primarily used for the treatment of addiction to opioids such as heroin and prescription pain relievers that contain opiates. The prescribed medication operates to normalize brain chemistry, block the euphoric effects of alcohol and opioids, relieve physiological cravings, and normalize body functions without the negative and euphoric effects of the substance used.

This treatment approach has been shown to:

Research also shows that these medications and therapies can contribute to lowering a person’s risk of contracting HIV or hepatitis C by reducing the potential for relapse.

The post Treating Opioid Use Disorders appeared first on InterCommunity .

Opioid Overdose

Mon, 02 Aug 2021 19:49:00 GMT

Opioids can dull the senses as well as induce relaxation and euphoria. Opioids slow down breathing and heart rate. In high doses, opioids depress the body’s natural urge to breathe. When someone is having an overdose, they can stop breathing and may die. Even if a person does not die from overdose, they can sustain brain damage. If you cannot get a response from someone, do not assume they are asleep. Unusual or deep snoring is a common sign of overdose. Don’t let people at risk ‘sleep it off.’

Overdose is more likely to occur when:

-The person uses alone

The person mixes opioids with alcohol and other drugs

-The person’s tolerance is low because they haven’t used recently

-The person has a chronic disease (HIV/AIDS, Hepatitis C, COPD), or an illness (pneumonia, flu)

Sometimes it can take hours for someone to die from an overdose of opioids. Action taken as soon as possible could save a life. Signs of overdose can include:

-No response to stimuli

-Shallow / stopped breathing

-Can’t be woken up

-Unusual snoring / gurgling sounds

-Blue lips / fingertips

-Floppy arms and legs

Naloxone is a medicine that rapidly reverses an opioid overdose. It is an opioid antagonist. This means that it attaches to opioid receptors and reverses and blocks the effects of other opioids. Naloxone can quickly restore normal breathing to a person if their breathing has slowed or stopped because of an opioid overdose. But, naloxone has no effect on someone who does not have opioids in their system, and it is not a treatment for opioid use disorder.

The post Opioid Overdose appeared first on InterCommunity .

Join Us in Celebrating National Health Center Week!

Wed, 21 Jul 2021 19:48:00 GMT

Everyone is invited to our free community celebrations in August on these dates:

Tuesday, August 10, 2021: East Hartford, 281 Main St., 11 am – 3 pm

Wednesday, August 11, 2021 : Hartford, 16 Coventry St., 11 am – 3 pm

Thursday, August 12, 2021 : South Windsor, 828 Sullivan Ave., 11 am – 3 pm

These events will take place rain or shine, and are free! Bring the whole family and have a free lunch and a lot of fun! We’ll have music, lunch, face painting, health screenings, raffles and giveaways, games and activities for kids, ice cream, massages, vaccinations and more!

The post Join Us in Celebrating National Health Center Week! appeared first on InterCommunity .

July is Healthy Vision Month

Tue, 06 Jul 2021 16:48:00 GMT

There’s a lot you can do to keep your eyes healthy and protect your vision.

Get a comprehensive dilated eye exam

Getting a dilated eye exam is simple and painless — and it’s the single best thing you can do for your eye health!

Even if your eyes feel healthy, you could have a problem and not know it. That’s because many eye diseases don’t have any symptoms or warning signs.

A dilated eye exam is the only way to check for many eye diseases early on, when they’re easier to treat.

Find out if you’re at risk for eye diseases

Getting older increases your risk of some eye diseases. You might also have a higher risk of some eye diseases if you:

Other health conditions, like diabetes or high blood pressure, can also increase your risk of some eye diseases. For example, people with diabetes are at risk for diabetic retinopathy — an eye condition that can cause vision loss and blindness.

If you’re worried you might be at risk for some eye diseases, talk to your doctor. You may be able to take steps to lower your risk.

Know your family’s health history. Talk with your family members to find out if they’ve had any eye problems. Some eye diseases and conditions run in families, like age-related macular degeneration or glaucoma . Be sure to tell your eye doctor if any eye diseases run in your family.

Protect your eyes

Every day, you can take simple steps to keep your eyes healthy. Use these tips to protect your eyes from things that can harm them:

Wear sunglasses . Protect your eyes from the sun by wearing sunglasses — even on cloudy days! Be sure to look for sunglasses that block 99 to 100 percent of both UVA and UVB radiation.

Wear protective eyewear . Safety glasses and goggles are designed to protect your eyes during certain activities, like playing sports, doing construction work, or doing home repairs. You can buy them from most eye care providers and some sporting goods stores. Get tips to protect your kids’ eyes when they play sports

Give your eyes a rest . Looking at a computer for a long time can tire out your eyes. Rest your eyes by taking a break every 20 minutes to look at something about 20 feet away for 20 seconds.

If you wear contacts, take steps to prevent eye infections. Always wash your hands before you put your contact lenses in or take them out. Be sure to disinfect your contact lenses and replace them regularly.

The post July is Healthy Vision Month appeared first on InterCommunity .

Preventing Injuries

Tue, 06 Jul 2021 16:37:00 GMT

While it’s nearly impossible to prevent normal childhood bumps, scrapes and bruises in the course of everyday life, these tips can help prevent more serious injuries:

The post Preventing Injuries appeared first on InterCommunity .

Water Safety

Tue, 06 Jul 2021 16:24:00 GMT

Drowning can happen in an instant. Other than birth defects, it’s the leading cause of death in young children ages one to four. Even a few inches of water in a bathtub, a pool, or any other body of water can be deadly for an unattended infant or toddler. Key prevention tips include the following:

The post Water Safety appeared first on InterCommunity .

Keeping Kids Safe in the Summer

Tue, 06 Jul 2021 16:21:00 GMT

For many kids, summertime fun means swimming and playing outside. Whether you have young children or teens, here are some summer safety tips to keep in mind while you’re enjoying the great outdoors:

The post Keeping Kids Safe in the Summer appeared first on InterCommunity .

Leadership and Mental Health

Mon, 31 May 2021 18:51:00 GMT

Presented on May 12,2021 with Tyler Booth, LCSW, InterCommunity Health Care and Rose-Marie Marotta, InterCommunity’s Coventry House, and moderated by Mae Maloney, MSW & Destiny Davis, MSW.

The post Leadership and Mental Health appeared first on InterCommunity .

Getting Help for PTSD

Mon, 31 May 2021 16:45:00 GMT

If you think you have PTSD, it’s important to get assessed by a professional experienced with PTSD. PTSD symptoms usually start soon after a traumatic event, but may be delayed for some people until weeks or months later. There are effective, evidence-based treatments for PTSD, including psychotherapy, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), medications, or both.

Everyone is different, and PTSD affects people differently, so a treatment that works for one person may not work for another. Some people with PTSD may need to try different treatments to find what works for their symptoms. For those who have tried one or more first-line treatments and not achieved sufficient relief from PTSD, there are alternative treatments available such as eye movement desensitization retraining (EMDR) , Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART), narrative exposure therapy (NET), and a relatively new medical treatment called stellate ganglion block (SGB). SGB is an injection administered by a doctor or other healthcare professional into the neck. It has been used to help people suffering from neurological disorders and pain syndromes, and there is evidence that it is also effective at reducing PTSD symptoms.

The post Getting Help for PTSD appeared first on InterCommunity .

Risk Factors

Mon, 31 May 2021 16:25:00 GMT

Many factors play a part in whether a person will develop PTSD. Other factors, called resilience factors , can help reduce the risk of the disorder.

Some factors that increase risk for PTSD include:

Some factors that may promote recovery after trauma include:

The post Risk Factors appeared first on InterCommunity .

PTSD: Causes and Symptoms

Mon, 31 May 2021 16:21:00 GMT

Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) affects people from all walks of life and can occur after people experience or witness a life-threatening event, including natural disasters such as earthquakes, hurricanes and floods, serious auto accidents, assault, combat, sexual abuse, or the sudden death of a loved one.

While it’s normal to have stress reactions after a traumatic event, most people recover from their experiences. However, if these reactions go on for weeks and interfere with daily life, people may be diagnosed with PTSD. There are four types of PTSD symptoms:

People should seek professional help when symptoms last longer than four weeks, cause distress, and disrupt work or home life.

The post PTSD: Causes and Symptoms appeared first on InterCommunity .

Join us on May 26, 2021

Sat, 08 May 2021 20:35:00 GMT

Join us for a free celebration on Wednesday, May 26, 2021, at 16 Coventry Street in Hartford from 11 am – 2 pm! Have some food, fun, and get a COVID vaccine. Don’t miss our guest speaker at noon: Iran Nazario, President and CEO of the Peace Center of Connecticut.

The post Join us on May 26, 2021 appeared first on InterCommunity .

Treatment Options: Help is Available

Sat, 01 May 2021 21:37:00 GMT

Often parents are the first to notice that something is wrong. Teens with mental illness may be diagnosed after a doctor or a mental health specialist observes signs and symptoms and conducts a thorough evaluation. Evaluations take into consideration:

Diagnosing mental health problems in children and teens can be challenging, but early intervention is important. A diagnosis can determine the most effective treatment available, which may be medication, therapy, or a combination of both.

The post Treatment Options: Help is Available appeared first on InterCommunity .

Recognizing Signs of Mental Illness in Teens

Sat, 01 May 2021 21:17:00 GMT

It’s important to know the signs and symptoms of mental illness in teens and seek help as soon as possible. While some everyday stresses can cause changes in a teen’s behavior, pay special attention to behaviors that include:

Unfortunately, less than 20% of children and adolescents with diagnosable mental health problems receive the treatment they need.

The post Recognizing Signs of Mental Illness in Teens appeared first on InterCommunity .

Your Teen’s Mental Health

Sat, 01 May 2021 21:02:00 GMT

May is Mental Health Awareness Month , a campaign to raise awareness of mental illness and reduce stigma. Research shows that many mental disorders start early in life. Autism spectrum disorders (ASD) and Attention Deficit and Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) are well known to appear in childhood, but people who suffer from depression, phobias, obsessive compulsive disorder, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia may also show signs by childhood or early adulthood.

Children and teenagers can sometimes experience intense emotions as they get older or go through stressful or traumatic events in their lives. For example, children commonly feel anxiety about school and friendships, and teens may experience short periods of depression after a serious illness or death of a family member or friend. However, mental illnesses can cause ongoing, severe symptoms that impact how a teenager thinks, behaves, and functions at home and in school.

The post Your Teen’s Mental Health appeared first on InterCommunity .

Managing Anxiety about the COVID Vaccine

Tue, 30 Mar 2021 19:14:00 GMT

Anxiety can stem from fears about the vaccine’s safety, getting a shot, or not knowing or not having control over when it will be available. Here are some ways to manage vaccine anxiety:

The post Managing Anxiety about the COVID Vaccine appeared first on InterCommunity .

Keys to Manage Stress

Tue, 30 Mar 2021 18:51:00 GMT

The pandemic has increased stress levels for adults and children. While a certain level of stress is healthy and even motivating, too much stress can cause problems and affect our health, productivity, and relationships.

Responses to stress can be physical, such as getting a headache or stomachache when you feel you’re under too much pressure. On an emotional level, you may feel anxious, sad, or fearful. The physical changes in your body, such as increased heart rate, higher blood pressure, and muscle tension, can take a toll and lead to mental and physical fatigue and illness.

Keys to manage stress include the following:

The post Keys to Manage Stress appeared first on InterCommunity .

Alcohol and Stress: A Vicious Circle?

Tue, 30 Mar 2021 18:36:00 GMT

April is Alcohol Awareness Month , a campaign to raise awareness and reduce the stigma associated with alcohol addiction. It’s also Stress Awareness Month , a timely reminder of how stress relates to alcohol use. People from all walks of life drink to cope with stress and while drinking can result in feelings of relaxation in the short term, ongoing reliance on alcohol to manage stress often leads to physical and psychological problems.

A Paradoxical Effect

Using alcohol to relieve stress and anxiety can have a paradoxical effect. Habitual alcohol use alters the balance of chemicals in the brain that regulate mood, and can contribute to and worsen symptoms of depression, anxiety, and other mental health disorders. It becomes a vicious circle; the person drinks in response to stress, feels worse later on, and turns to alcohol again to avoid dealing with painful feelings instead of learning healthy coping skills.

Drinking to self-medicate can also have serious health consequences. Heavy drinking is linked to higher risk of developing an alcohol use disorder or alcohol addiction. Other medical conditions associated with excessive drinking include heart and liver disease, stroke, high blood pressure, and cancer. Long-term alcohol use can also cause neurological problems such as cognitive deficits and dementia.

The post Alcohol and Stress: A Vicious Circle? appeared first on InterCommunity .

REEI Update: A Message from Kim Beauregard, President & CEO

Tue, 30 Mar 2021 18:33:00 GMT

InterCommunity’s REEI committee has completed the first assessment phase of our important work. Building off of the feedback we received from employee surveys, the REEI task forces developed an extensive inventory of recommended actions and changes to make our organization more racially equitable and inclusive. On March 22 ^nd the co-chairs presented the REEI committee’s final recommendations and, with many thanks, the REEI committee said goodbye to our initial REEI consultants, Rosario & Associates. Work focusing on Culture, Strategic Alignment, Education, Recruiting, and Training (including on-boarding and Career Development) will continue as we move to the implementation phase with a different consulting group. The REEI committee has modeled some of the vulnerability and empathy that we want to extend to our full organization and we will be doing this as we continue on our journey.

The post REEI Update: A Message from Kim Beauregard, President & CEO appeared first on InterCommunity .

Are You Getting Enough Sleep?

Wed, 03 Mar 2021 21:04:00 GMT

Getting enough sleep is necessary for good health and quality of life, just as important as eating well and staying active. Adequate sleep, generally defined as 9–12 hours for school-age children, 8–10 hours for teens, and 7- 9 hours for adults, is essential for learning, memory, good emotional health, and the immune system. Conversely, chronic lack of sleep is linked to a greater risk for heart disease, cancer, depression, and weight gain. Good sleep habits are vital at all stages of life.

Tips for better sleep:

The post Are You Getting Enough Sleep? appeared first on InterCommunity .

Worried Your Teen Gambles too Much?

Wed, 03 Mar 2021 21:01:00 GMT

Thousands of online gambling sites have popped up in the past decade, and the number of teenagers who gamble for money has also spiked. Approximately 60 – 80% of high school students gamble for money, and 4 – 7% show signs of a gambling addiction. Kids in high school have twice the rate of gambling problems as adults, and the consequences can be severe: clinical depression, gambling debts that lead to theft, poor grades, and disrupted social relationships.

Teens may gamble compulsively as a way to deal with anxiety, boredom, depression, and stress. Some research suggests that gambling addiction, much like other compulsive behaviors, activates the same brain pathways as drug and alcohol cravings. This is one reason why problem gamblers find it so difficult to control or stop gambling and why they persist in spite of negative consequences.

If you’re concerned that your teen might be gambling too much, you’re not alone!

Though anyone can develop a gambling addiction, studies have revealed some risk factors that can increase susceptibility to a dependency. These factors include:

Here are some tips for parents:

The post Worried Your Teen Gambles too Much? appeared first on InterCommunity .

What is a Gambling Disorder?

Wed, 03 Mar 2021 20:49:00 GMT

Millions of Americans are estimated to meet the criteria for problem gambling, but for many, gambling is a hidden addiction. National Problem Gambling Awareness Month is intended to raise public awareness about problem gambling and the availability of prevention, treatment, and recovery services.

How do you know when gambling has crossed the line from a harmless activity to a problem? Signs include:

Problem gambling or a gambling addiction can contribute to poor mental and physical health. The good news is, recovery is possible. Treatment for compulsive gambling may include cognitive behavioral therapy and family therapy, medications such as anti-depressants and mood stabilizers, and self-help groups such as Gamblers Anonymous.

The post What is a Gambling Disorder? appeared first on InterCommunity .

Join us for the Magic of Michael Mage!

Mon, 01 Mar 2021 14:09:00 GMT

FRIDAY, MARCH 12, 2021: 7 – 8 PM

Get tickets here!

InterCommunity is a sponsor of the Magic of Michael Mage!

Get ready for a LIVE and Interactive experience that will have the family-friendly magic happening in YOUR homes! During the show Michael showcases incredible magic, mentalism, and mind-blowing feats of skill while constantly interacting with the audience. Throughout the show, You will get to see and hear your friends getting their minds boggled as Michael seamlessly jumps between spotlighting himself and various guests on screen. By bringing along your own deck of cards, Michael will perform magic in your own hands and even teach you something wicked to fool your friends. All of this allows for a truly unique online experience that bears no resemblance to watching a video or live stream.

The post Join us for the Magic of Michael Mage! appeared first on InterCommunity .

Learn the Facts about the COVID Vaccine

Wed, 17 Feb 2021 15:05:00 GMT

Vaccination is our best shot at stopping the pandemic, and it’s a simple step you can take to protect yourself and your family from serious illness. But you may have questions or hesitations about getting the vaccine, and we want to make sure you have all the facts.

Read here (flier in English) about the myths and facts and what to expect.

Spanish flier here.

Interested in COVID-19 testing? Click here for the March 2021 testing schedule.

The post Learn the Facts about the COVID Vaccine appeared first on InterCommunity .

On-site Pharmacy Open!

Wed, 10 Feb 2021 21:56:00 GMT

The Genoa Healthcare pharmacy located here is open and ready to serve you – even if you’re meeting with your doctor by phone or video!

The pharmacy:

Genoa Healthcare Pharmacy – East Hartford

Located within InterCommunity

287 Main St, Suite A-2

East Hartford, CT 06118

Phone: (860)785-6052

Fax: (860)249-8645

www.genoahealthcare.com

Genoa Healthcare Pharmacy – Hartford

Located within InterCommunity

56 Coventry St, Suite B

Hartford, CT 06112

Phone: (860)967-3116

Fax: (860)819-3404

www.genoahealthcare.com

The post On-site Pharmacy Open! appeared first on InterCommunity .

“A Legacy Revealed | Paths to Purpose”

Wed, 10 Feb 2021 21:22:00 GMT

Annual Black History Celebration – 2021

Event Details

Date:      Thursday, February 18, 2021
Time:     6:00 pm – 8:00 pm
Venue:   Live Stream on ULGH YouTube and Facebook pages
Free Tickets: www.ulghlegacyrevealed2021.eventbrite.com
Facebook Event Page:    https://fb.me/e/15DnHGOhm

Event Overview
Urban League of Greater Hartford is presenting its 6th annual Black History Celebration! The theme for this year’s signature event is “A Legacy Revealed – Paths to Purpose,” a cultural experience showcasing the achievements of women of color, through the arts, advocacy, equity, health, community enrichment, youth achievement and philanthropy.

Interactive Exhibit | 6:00 – 7:00 pm
Learn about the rich history,resources, services and activities offered by individuals/organizations within the community. Attendees may also enter for a chance to win giveaways as they engage virtually during this segment.

Legacy Showcase | 7:00 – 8:30 pm
Entertaining and thought provoking historical and cultural presentations will be shared through music, poetry and dance while we acknowledge and award the contributions of featured Legacy Honors recipients.

Legacy Honorees include:

· Denise Best Paths to Advocacy

· Angela Harris Paths to Health Equity

· Rosaida Morales Rosario Paths to Racial Equity & Cultural Philanthropy

· Sincere Mickens Paths to Youth Achievement

· Michelle McFarland Paths to Community Engagement

· LaShawn Robinson Paths to Arts

*Contact Kyrinda Richardson at kyrinda@ulgh.org or (860) 728-4291 for sponsorship, advertisements, or to be a virtual exhibitor*

The post “A Legacy Revealed | Paths to Purpose” appeared first on InterCommunity .

Promoting HIV Education/Prevention for African-American Populations

Wed, 20 Jan 2021 18:47:00 GMT

Blacks/African Americans account for a higher proportion of new HIV diagnoses and people with HIV, compared to other race/ethnicities. In 2018, Blacks/African-Americans accounted for 13% of the US population but 42% of the 37,832 new HIV diagnoses in the United States (CDC HIV surveillance report, 2019).

InterCommunity is offering two groups:

1- SISTA group: The goal of this group is to reduce sexual risk behavior by heterosexually active African-American women at highest risk for HIV.

2- Nia group: The goal of this group is to reduce sexual risk behavior among African-American men who have sex with women.

These groups are designed for Black/African-American clients.

***For referrals contact Tamesha Drewn, RN at (860) 569-5900, Ext. 379 or email tameshadrew@www.intercommunityct.org

The post Promoting HIV Education/Prevention for African-American Populations appeared first on InterCommunity .

InterCommunity Programs in Hartford

Mon, 11 Jan 2021 21:54:00 GMT

Second Chance Behavioral Health Group

This group is designed for individuals with behavioral/mental health difficulties who are also dealing with difficulties related to incarceration or dealing with impacts from incarceration (parole, probation, housing, employment, family, mental health, etc.). Participants in different stages of reintegrating themselves in the community are welcomed.

**Referrals to this group are done through our Assessment Center, as clients will need a behavioral health assessment or updated ISP. These can be offered to any client at InterCommunity. All groups are via Zoom at this time.

Transitions Clinic

The Transitions Clinic serves clients that have recently been released from incarceration and are referred to IC. The program takes a broad view of health and wellness, caring for both clients’ physical and behavioral health needs, and their social determinants of health.

JUSTICE Program

This is the first longitudinal observational study focused on individuals, released from a prison, to understand the epidemiology of Cardiovascular Disease risk factors and modifiable mediators of CVD risk factor control.

Eligible participants can be from the community, from Halfway Houses, Sober Houses, Re-entry Welcome Center, and within Intercommunity’s client population. Eligibility criteria: individuals recently released from incarceration in the past 30 days, age 21 years an older, speak English, with one or more of the following CVD risk factors: high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, or obesity, and who plan to stay in the Hartford area for at least 12 months.

**You can make referrals for both the Transition Clinic and the JUSTICE programs by contacting Kelvin Young, RSS, Community Health Worker. Work (860) 569-5900 ext. 202, Cell (860) 936-1726 KelvinYoung@www.intercommunityct.org

The post InterCommunity Programs in Hartford appeared first on InterCommunity .

January is Thyroid Awareness Month

Thu, 07 Jan 2021 20:33:00 GMT

Women are more likely than men to have thyroid diseases, especially after pregnancy and after menopause. Untreated thyroid disease can make it more difficult for women to get pregnant, cause premature delivery, and result in health problems for the baby.

The thyroid produces thyroid hormone, which controls many activities in the body, including how fast you burn calories and how fast your heart beats. Diseases of the thyroid cause it to make either too much or too little of the hormone. Depending on how much or how little hormone your thyroid makes, you may often feel restless or tired, or you may lose or gain weight.

Symptoms of Thyroid Disorder

Hypothyroidism:

Hyperthyroidism:

Read here for more information about the signs and symptoms of hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism, thyroid nodules, goiter, and thyroid cancer.

The post January is Thyroid Awareness Month appeared first on InterCommunity .

Building Healthy Habits

Thu, 07 Jan 2021 20:29:00 GMT

Building healthy habits is best done consistently over time. Just a few simple changes every day can make a big difference in your physical and emotional health. Start slowly and you’re more likely to stay on track. Try these four changes this week:

The post Building Healthy Habits appeared first on InterCommunity .

5 Strategies for Eating In Moderation

Thu, 07 Jan 2021 20:27:00 GMT

January is Healthy Weight Awareness Month, which coincides with many people’s New Year’s resolutions to eat better and get healthier. However, it’s easy to lose momentum or give up entirely when goals are too big or too vague.

What’s important is eating healthy foods – and in moderate portions – most of the time. Even small changes in diet can add up to positive results and keep you motivated. Try these simple tips to make it easier to balance your diet with healthy, nutritious foods and eat in moderation.

Five Strategies for Eating in Moderation

The post 5 Strategies for Eating In Moderation appeared first on InterCommunity .

Racial/Ethnic Equity Initiative Update

Thu, 07 Jan 2021 20:24:00 GMT

A Message from Kim Beauregard

InterCommunity’s Racial/Ethnic Equity Initiative continues to move along on its journey to make us all more knowledgeable and understanding of racial equity, and to take actions on ensuring that InterCommunity is an anti-racist organization. We are on this journey together and it has been challenging and healing on many different levels. We have completed our staff and Board of Directors surveys and will continue in the future with surveys for community partners and clients/ patients to get as much feedback as we can. From survey feedback, we have developed 2 major task forces: “Organizational Culture” and” Equity in Training and Leadership Opportunities.” We are excited to get started on these in January. Much appreciation to the Racial/Ethnic Equity Committee for all of the work it has done and continues to do on this most important issue.They continue to be bold and brave in all they do.

The post Racial/Ethnic Equity Initiative Update appeared first on InterCommunity .

InterCommunity Announces New PROUD Program

Thu, 07 Jan 2021 00:00:00 GMT

InterCommunity Health Care is pleased to announce that our new program PROUD (Parents Recovering of Opioid Use Disorders) has officially started this week and we are now accepting referrals. The PROUD program (Parents Recovering from Opioid Use Disorders) is here to offer support and family-centered treatment to pregnant and postpartum women, in all stages of substance use recovery. We are serving the communities of Hartford, East Hartford, South Windsor, Bloomfield, and Wethersfield.

The team consists of a clinician, care coordinator, and peer recovery specialists. We will be starting services via telehealth, but the goal eventually will be in-home services. Please call us at 860-569-5900, Ext. 321 for further details and questions. Click here for a flier.

• PROUD program staff use a holistic model that includes clinical, case management, and peer based approaches to recovery.
• Program services are flexible, with in-home and telehealth treatment options.
• Treatment and support is personalized for every mother and her family.
• PROUD program staff will create Plans of Safe Care with expectant mothers.

The post InterCommunity Announces New PROUD Program appeared first on InterCommunity .

InterCommunity’s New Outreach Program: How Can We Help?

Mon, 23 Nov 2020 15:41:00 GMT

InterCommunity’s How Can We Help? program meets people exactly where they are on a recovery journey and offers ongoing support to reduce the incidence of repeat overdose.

Using a harm reduction approach, How Can We Help? Engagement Specialists offer:

– Needs-based assessments for people in recovery

– Ongoing individualized case management services

– Safety plans to avoid future overdose

– Naloxone, as needed

– Support and peace of mind for family members and loved ones

InterCommunity’s How Can We Help? program will work with people in every possible way to keep them safe and on the road to recovery. For more information, please contact: Susan Wilk at 860-716-7458 or Danielle Valentine at 860-936-8596

The post InterCommunity’s New Outreach Program: How Can We Help? appeared first on InterCommunity .

We thank our sponsors and supporters!

Tue, 17 Nov 2020 14:56:00 GMT

Thank you for joining us on November 12, 2020, for InterCommunity Health Care’s annual Signature event “Lighting a Path to Recovery” to benefit our addiction recovery programs. This year our communities have experienced the difficulties brought by the pandemic and racial injustice, and the need has never been greater for addiction recovery services. Your generous support will allow us to continue serving thousands of individuals in our community, guiding them on their recovery journey and improving their quality of life. Help us continue to make a difference, one person at a time.

Please donate here.

The post We thank our sponsors and supporters! appeared first on InterCommunity .

New Documentary Explores Roots of Addiction

Fri, 06 Nov 2020 15:06:00 GMT

Check out the REEL Recovery Film Festival November 6 – 12, 2020.

The post New Documentary Explores Roots of Addiction appeared first on InterCommunity .

Join us for our Signature Event on Thurs. Nov. 12, 2020, 7 PM – 8 PM

Mon, 02 Nov 2020 16:09:00 GMT

REGISTER HERE !

Please join us in “Lighting a Path to Recovery,” InterCommunity Health Care’s annual Signature event to benefit our addiction recovery programs. This year our communities have experienced the difficulties brought by the pandemic and racial injustice, and the need has never been greater for addiction recovery services. Your generous support will allow us to continue serving thousands of individuals in our community, guiding them on their recovery journey and improving their quality of life. You’ll hear stories of hope and courage, recovery and purpose, conviction and resilience. Together we shall heal; together we shall overcome; and together we shall recover. Help us continue to make a difference, one person at a time.

REGISTER HERE!

The post Join us for our Signature Event on Thurs. Nov. 12, 2020, 7 PM – 8 PM appeared first on InterCommunity .

Coronavirus testing in October and November 2020

Tue, 29 Sep 2020 20:36:00 GMT

InterCommunity Health Care is no longer conducting coronavirus testing at its community health centers in Hartford, East Hartford, and South Windsor. However, a number of testing events are scheduled at various community locations. Click here for a flier on testing events in October and November.

The post Coronavirus testing in October and November 2020 appeared first on InterCommunity .

COVID-19 testing in Newington on Tuesday, Sept. 29, 2020

Wed, 16 Sep 2020 16:03:00 GMT

Get tested for coronavirus on Tuesday, Sept 29 from 10 am – 2 pm at Constitution Square in Newington. No appointment needed! Walk-up testing is under a tent and is self-administered. Please note in the event of rain, this event will be cancelled.

The post COVID-19 testing in Newington on Tuesday, Sept. 29, 2020 appeared first on InterCommunity .

Don’t Miss A Day of Civic Engagement

Fri, 11 Sep 2020 20:47:00 GMT

Take Action: A Day of Civic Engagement event.

EVENT DETAILS

EVENT ACTIVITIES

Click here for Spanish flyer.

The post Don’t Miss A Day of Civic Engagement appeared first on InterCommunity .

Back to School Health Care Clinics – open to all East Hartford school-age children

Wed, 08 Jul 2020 14:41:00 GMT

Make your appointment now for back-to-school physicals, sports physicals, and immunizations. Call 860-569-5900 today!

East Hartford High School:

August 7, 11, 14, and 21, 2020, from 9 am – 3:30 pm

East Hartford Middle School:

August 13, 19, 20, 2020, from 9 am – 3:30 pm

English flyer

Spanish flyer

The post Back to School Health Care Clinics – open to all East Hartford school-age children appeared first on InterCommunity .

Telehealth and Video Visits Available!

Sun, 28 Jun 2020 19:10:00 GMT

InterCommunity offers telephone and video visits for all members of your family for primary care, mental health care, and addiction recovery services. See instructions here for how to prepare for your video visit. Questions? See Frequently Asked Questions about video visits.

The post Telehealth and Video Visits Available! appeared first on InterCommunity .

Coronavirus testing event on Saturday, June 27

Mon, 22 Jun 2020 20:13:00 GMT

Adults and children can be tested on Saturday, June 27, 2020 from 9 am – 3 pm at 16 Coventry Street in Hartford. We’ll have several testing teams, snacks, and giveaways. Please wear a face mask, scarf, or bandanna, and observe social distancing of 6 feet while waiting to be tested. We will have a limited number of free bandannas for those who need them.

The testing is walk-up and no appointment or doctor’s orders are necessary. The test is a self-administered nasal swab. InterCommunity will call you with results. Please bring your identification and insurance card. Those with insurance and without insurance are accepted.

The post Coronavirus testing event on Saturday, June 27 appeared first on InterCommunity .

Coronavirus Testing for Adults and Children

Mon, 08 Jun 2020 17:34:00 GMT

SPECIAL TESTING EVENT: Wednesday, July 29, 2020, from 10 am – 2 pm in Newington, Constitution Square. Look for the InterCommunity tent! We’ll have a testing team, snacks, and giveaways!

InterCommunity Health Care is conducting walk-up coronavirus testing for adults and children at its Hartford, East Hartford, and South Windsor locations. See details below and information in Spanish here.

Hartford , 16 Coventry St:

Monday, Wednesday, and Friday, 1 pm – 3 pm.

Tuesday and Thursday: 9 am – 3 pm.

East Hartford , 281 Main Street:

Wednesday and Friday: 9 am – 3 pm

South Windsor, 828 Sullivan Avenue:

Monday and Wednesday: 9 am – 3 pm

For all locations:

-No doctor’s prescription or appointment is required

-Tests are self-administered nasal swabs

-Tests are available for children and adults

-Bring identification and insurance card

-Insured and uninsured are accepted

-InterCommunity will call you with test results

The post Coronavirus Testing for Adults and Children appeared first on InterCommunity .

June 2020 — CT LIVE Interview with Kimberly Beauregard

Wed, 03 Jun 2020 15:56:00 GMT

CT LIVE interviews Kimberly Beauregard, President and CEO of InterCommunity Health Care. Learn more about InterCommunity’s primary care, mental health, and addiction recovery services available during the pandemic and beyond.

The post June 2020 — CT LIVE Interview with Kimberly Beauregard appeared first on InterCommunity .

Detoxification and Recovery Amidst the COVID-19 Pandemic

Fri, 08 May 2020 15:43:00 GMT

The COVID-19 pandemic strikes in the midst of our ongoing battle with the opioid epidemic. Social distancing and self-quarantine increase stress and anxiety for many people, triggering drug and alcohol use and relapse for those in recovery. Read Dr. Pangilinan’s article here on how the pandemic impacts those with substance use disorders…and how InterCommunity can help.

The post Detoxification and Recovery Amidst the COVID-19 Pandemic appeared first on InterCommunity .

InterCommunity Detox Center is OPEN

Wed, 15 Apr 2020 14:57:00 GMT

This is a reminder that InterCommunity’s Detoxification Center is open and accepting clients. Call 860-569-5900, Ext 515.

The post InterCommunity Detox Center is OPEN appeared first on InterCommunity .

We are in need of face masks and PPE

Tue, 07 Apr 2020 18:48:00 GMT

As we continue fighting COVID-19, we remain vigilant in protecting the health of our clients and staff. The CDC now recommends that we all wear face masks to help slow the spread of the virus. We are currently in need of 200 face masks to protect the health of our clients and staff in our residential facilities. Additionally our supply of PPE (personal protective equipment) for our medical staff has become difficult to maintain. If you can help by donating COVID-related supplies, including face masks or PPE, please contact Lori Brownsword, RN, Director of Practice Management, at 860-680-0512 or InterCommunity Health Care’s CEO, Kim Beauregard, at kimbeauregard@www.intercommunityct.org Thank you for caring!!

The post We are in need of face masks and PPE appeared first on InterCommunity .

Recovery — at Home

Wed, 01 Apr 2020 19:42:00 GMT

Recovery doesn’t have to stop even during a pandemic. There are many options available for you to join an online group (telephone, chat, or video) for the support you need.

Resources include:

aa.org (AA online)

myRecovery.org (Video meetings)

na-recovery.org (Narcotics Anonymous – Text chat)

Stepchat.com (Text chat)

al-anon.org (Al-Anon)

smartrecovery.org (non-12 Step Text chat and Voice chat)

olganon.org (Gamers Anonymous – chat room)

The post Recovery — at Home appeared first on InterCommunity .

COVID-19 UPDATE

Wed, 18 Mar 2020 14:10:00 GMT

In light of the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, please do not come in to the clinics if you have any of the following symptoms: fever, cough, and shortness of breath, or if you suspect you’ve come in contact with someone who may have the COVID-19 virus. Please contact us by phone so we can triage you and if appropriate, give you instructions on how to get testing. 211 is now offering a hotline to help you with all your questions. During this time we are limiting guests within our health centers, so if you need someone to accompany you to the clinic, please limit this to one person. This person will also receive the COVID-19 screening. If you need a copy of your medical records, please do NOT go to 56 Coventry Street as usual. You must request your records using this form . Please mail the form to our corporate office at InterCommunity, Inc., 111 Founders Plaza, 18 ^th Floor, East Hartford, CT 06108. Thank you for your cooperation during these challenging times!

The post COVID-19 UPDATE appeared first on InterCommunity .

Update on COVID-19

Mon, 16 Mar 2020 18:43:00 GMT

As the number of coronavirus (COVID-19) cases increases in the state and nationally, we want to assure our clients, employees, funders, and donors that we are closely following guidance from state and local public health officials and government agencies, including the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

The CDC’s current recommendations on what you can do to prepare your family in the event COVID-19 spreads in the community are as follows:

The post Update on COVID-19 appeared first on InterCommunity .

Save the Date

Tue, 10 Mar 2020 13:36:00 GMT

InterCommunity will sponsor National Community Health Center events during the week of August 10, 2020, at its locations in East Hartford, Hartford, and South Windsor. More details to be posted soon!

The post Save the Date appeared first on InterCommunity .

Finest Hours on Tues, Feb 18, 2020!

Thu, 06 Feb 2020 18:48:00 GMT

Finest Hours is coming to City Steam Brewery! Join us on Tuesday, February 18th at 5:30 pm, as First Night Hartford celebrates InterCommunity Health Care, Jordan Porco Foundation, and Community Renewal Team (CRT). Enjoy Food, Drink, and Conversation with those giving back in Greater Hartford over acoustic music by Jeremy Haddad Music and Earl Henrichon of The Professors of Sweet, Sweet Music -The POSSM , at this month’s Finest Hours Hartford Community Social.

Tickets are $30 in advance or $40 at the door. Buy your tickets here and use the discount code ICCT for $5 off!

The post Finest Hours on Tues, Feb 18, 2020! appeared first on InterCommunity .

Join us for a Community Conversation

Tue, 14 Jan 2020 22:01:00 GMT

The post Join us for a Community Conversation appeared first on InterCommunity .

InterCommunity Health Care Opens Office in South Windsor

Wed, 30 Oct 2019 16:07:00 GMT

InterCommunity Health Care announces the opening of its new office at 828 Sullivan Avenue in South Windsor, CT.

InterCommunity Health Care offers every member of the family easy access to a large group of highly skilled and compassionate providers who will address all of your health care needs, often the same day you call. Looking for primary care, addiction recovery services or mental health care? Call 860-569-5900

Office hours in South Windsor are Mondays through Fridays, 8:30 am – 5 pm. A ribbon-cutting/open house is scheduled for Tuesday, December 10, 2019, from 10 am – 1 pm.

The post InterCommunity Health Care Opens Office in South Windsor appeared first on InterCommunity .

InterCommunity Health Care Earns National Recognition

Wed, 25 Sep 2019 16:40:00 GMT

InterCommunity Health Care is pleased to be recognized by the American Heart Association (AHA) and the American Medical Association (AMA) as a leader in the national effort to get patient blood pressure rates under control and reduce the number of Americans who have heart attacks and strokes each year.

As part of the 2019 Target: BP Recognition Program, AHA and AMA awarded InterCommunity Health Care with Gold Status—one of just 542 physician practices and health systems to be recognized for achieving blood pressure control rates of 70 percent or more in their adult patient population with high blood pressure. A total of 1,183 physician practices and health systems nationwide were recognized by the program for their commitment to help patients improve blood pressure control.

“High blood pressure and high cholesterol are major risk factors for heart disease, heart attack, and stroke. Yet, less than half of people with high blood pressure have it controlled to target level, and many people with high cholesterol are undertreated,” stated Kimberly Beauregard, President and CEO of InterCommunity Health Care. “We’re pleased to be part of the effort in improving the health of the people we serve.”

InterCommunity Health Care provides health services out of 16 locations in the greater Hartford region, including three community health centers located at 281 Main Street in East Hartford, 16 Coventry Street in Hartford, and 828 Sullivan Avenue in South Windsor.

The post InterCommunity Health Care Earns National Recognition appeared first on InterCommunity .

InterCommunity Health Care Named Top Workplace – 9 Years Running!

Tue, 24 Sep 2019 20:55:00 GMT

InterCommunity Health Care is pleased to be named a 2019 Top Workplace by The Hartford Courant for the ninth year in a row. InterCommunity is one of only seven employers to earn this honor since the competition’s inception in 2011.

“I’m proud to lead an organization with employees who bring such a wealth of talent, energy, and expertise to the table,” stated Kimberly Beauregard, President and CEO. “The staff and administration go above and beyond every day to meet the needs of the people we serve in the Greater Hartford community.”

This year’s Hartford Courant Top Workplace winners were chosen from hundreds of employers that were nominated based on a survey by Energage, a Philadelphia research firm that has surveyed more than 20 million employees nationwide. Top Workplaces are based on employee responses to a detailed and confidential questionnaire.

The post InterCommunity Health Care Named Top Workplace – 9 Years Running! appeared first on InterCommunity .

Join us at the Old Wethersfield 5K/10K Race

Sat, 10 Aug 2019 18:04:00 GMT

Walkers, form a team ! Your donations will benefit InterCommunity’s Health Centers located in East Hartford Public Schools. The Health Centers give students meaningful access to care in a location that is safe and convenient regardless of one’s ability to pay.

Sunday, August 25, 2019: Race begins at Solomon Wells House, Old Wethersfield

Walkers, form a team here!

The post Join us at the Old Wethersfield 5K/10K Race appeared first on InterCommunity .

InterCommunity Awarded Three New Grants

Fri, 14 Jun 2019 21:02:00 GMT

InterCommunity Health Care is the recipient of three recent grants to address substance use, employment services for individuals in recovery, and HIV prevention.

To further combat the opioid crisis within the greater Hartford region, InterCommunity has been awarded the Harvard Pilgrim Health Care Quality Grant Award. The one-year grant will fund a quality improvement project to expand services within InterCommunity’s Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) program. MAT combines behavioral therapy and medications to treat substance use disorders.

A Mobile Employment Services grant, awarded to InterCommunity by the Connecticut Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services, will expand InterCommunity’s current employment services to individuals who are in early recovery, unemployed, or underemployed. The program helps participants find jobs consistent with their skills, abilities, and interests.

In addition, the Connecticut Dept. of Public Health has awarded InterCommunity a two-year HIV Prevention Program grant, which will fund evidence-based HIV prevention efforts for at-risk populations. The program includes HIV testing and risk screening, PrEP (pre-exposure prophylaxis) eligibility screening and prescriptions, and intervention groups focusing on HIV education, risk reduction, communications skills, problem-solving, and behavioral skills encouraging prevention.

The post InterCommunity Awarded Three New Grants appeared first on InterCommunity .

InterCommunity Announces New Board Members

Mon, 08 Apr 2019 07:41:00 GMT

InterCommunity, Inc. today announced the appointment of two new members to its Board of Directors: Esther Gonzalez-Torres and Elise Schreier.

Esther Gonzalez-Torres is the executive director of Youth Challenge of Connecticut, Inc. based in Hartford. Youth Challenge operates residential programs and conducts outreach to people impacted by substance use. “I’ve always admired the work that InterCommunity does, and the wide range of treatment services offered,” stated Ms. Gonzalez-Torres. “We have common areas of interest and the goal to help people live drug-free, productive, and meaningful lives.”

Ms. Gonzalez-Torres received her master’s degree in Social Work from the University of Connecticut , and has worked at Youth Challenge for the past seventeen years. She is well-versed in community engagement, development, and fundraising. “I’m deeply familiar with the greater Hartford community, and I look forward to supporting and assisting InterCommunity in its mission.”

Elise Schreier works at Travelers in Hartford, heading a claims department. Her background is in law and risk management, and she is experienced in medical malpractice claims and liability. As a 25-year member of South Church in Glastonbury where InterCommunity was founded, she has had a long-standing connection with the organization. “I would love to do my part to continue South Church’s representation on InterCommunity’s board of directors,” she said. “I’m also passionate about improving and supporting treatment for mental illness and addiction in our community. It’s time for the stigma to end.”

Ms. Schreier noted that InterCommunity’s approach to integrated care for the mind and body “makes sense and makes care more accessible to everyone. Public opinion is evolving, and it’s time we stop separating physical care from mental health care. I’m excited to support InterCommunity’s mission to provide care for the whole person.”

The post InterCommunity Announces New Board Members appeared first on InterCommunity .

Save the date for InterCommunity’s 20th Annual Golf Outing!

Thu, 28 Feb 2019 07:40:00 GMT

Join us on June 20, 2019 for InterCommunity’s 20th Annual Golf Outing at Blackledge Country Club in Hebron, CT. Click here to register online.

Tournament Awards : Foursome Low Gross, Foursome Low Net, Closest to the Pin, Longest Drive, Hole-in-one

9 am: Registration

10 am : Shotgun Start

Lunch on the course — open bar and beverage cart

Heavy hors d’oeuvres, awards and raffle immediately following golf.

The post Save the date for InterCommunity’s 20th Annual Golf Outing! appeared first on InterCommunity .

Glastonbury Resident is Volunteer of the Year

Thu, 13 Dec 2018 07:40:00 GMT

Forty-one years ago, InterCommunity Health Care humbly began in the basement of the Congregational Church in South Glastonbury as a resource for those with mental illness. The relationship between these two organizations, one attending to the spiritual needs and one attending to the physical and mental needs of people, has remained strong ever since.

Last month at InterCommunity’s Annual Meeting, David Tiffin, a resident of Glastonbury and a member of the Congregational Church, was awarded the Volunteer of the Year Award for his service. “We are so grateful Dave learned of InterCommunity through the Church and reached out to us early in 2018 to see how he could help us,” said Kimberly Beauregard, President, and CEO of InterCommuntiy.

Dave also gives of his time generously to the Church, chairing their Stewardship Ministry Team and serving on their Human Resources Council. When he is not busy volunteering, Dave enjoys golfing and spending time with his wife, Deanna, and family, most especially his two granddaughters.

The post Glastonbury Resident is Volunteer of the Year appeared first on InterCommunity .

InterCommunity Receives Safety Award for Client Transportation

Fri, 07 Dec 2018 07:39:00 GMT

InterCommunity’s regional transportation service is the recipient of the 2018 Merit in Fleet Safety Award, granted by Orion Fleet Intelligence. The Merit in Fleet Safety Award recognizes commercial auto fleets that have a proven track record of providing safe and secure transportation throughout the year. InterCommunity provides transportation 24 hours a day, seven days a week for people needing access to detoxification and residential treatment programs through the Access Line (1-800-563-4086) via the Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services (DMHAS).

“This distinguished award is a testament to our ongoing commitment to patient access to services, patient safety and quality health care,” said Kimberly Beauregard, InterCommunity President & CEO.

The post InterCommunity Receives Safety Award for Client Transportation appeared first on InterCommunity .

InterCommunity Announces New Chairperson of the Board

Fri, 07 Dec 2018 07:39:00 GMT

InterCommunity, Inc. today announced the election of Brian Cutino as Chairperson of its Board of Directors.

Brian Cutino has worked at The Hartford since 2007 and is currently an IT Delivery Manager. He brings a wealth of business experience in project management, HR management, technology consulting, and financial management. He previously served as Chairperson on the Board of Directors for ADRC and for InterCommunity Recovery Centers, Inc.

Mr. Cutino holds bachelor’s degrees from the University of Hartford in business administration and politics and government. He is currently working on a master’s degree in business administration at the University of Connecticut. Previously he volunteered for the Boy Scouts of America in leadership roles on the local, regional, and national levels.

“We are delighted to welcome Brian Cutino as the Chairperson of our Board of Directors,” said Kimberly Beauregard, Executive Director of InterCommunity. “We are fortunate to have Brian at the helm as we continue to grow our primary care, addiction recovery, and behavioral health services.”

The post InterCommunity Announces New Chairperson of the Board appeared first on InterCommunity .

News Conference Draws Attention to Potent New Opioid Pill

Thu, 15 Nov 2018 07:38:00 GMT

Tyler Booth, InterCommunity’s Chief Operating Officer, along with U.S. Sen. Richard Blumenthal, police, and paramedics spoke at a news conference on Tuesday, November 13, 2018, about the dangers of Dsuvia, a highly-potent synthetic opioid that has been approved by the FDA for use in health-care settings. The pill is scheduled to be released in January 2019. Read the full story from the Courant here.

The post News Conference Draws Attention to Potent New Opioid Pill appeared first on InterCommunity .

InterCommunity Health Announces Three New Board Members

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 15:28:00 GMT

InterCommunity Health, Inc. today announced the appointment of three new members to its Board of Directors. Joining the Board are Sasa Harriott, Dr. Steven Wolf, and Annan Yakubu.

Sasa Harriott is the owner and Chief Executive Officer of Harriott Home Health Services based in Hartford. A licensed registered nurse, Ms. Harriott started her company with the goal of improving how health care is provided to community residents. “My mission is to provide culturally competent and relevant care and education for people with high risk medical and behavioral health needs,” she said. “If we fill the gaps, it will result in better outcomes.”

Ms. Harriott graduated from Jacksonville University with a bachelor’s degree in nursing. She was previously employed at St. Francis Hospital and the Behavioral Health Partnership. Her affiliation with InterCommunity Health began years ago when she began working with clients referred from InterCommunity. “I saw first-hand the great work that InterCommunity Health did, and I’ve watched the organization expand. I’m proud to be a member of the Board of Directors.” Ms. Harriott also serves as a Foundation Board Member of St. Francis Hospital and Medical Center.

Dr. Steven Wolf is the Chairman of Emergency Medicine and the Director of the Emergency Department at St. Francis Hospital and Medical Center. Dr. Wolf stated that his personal involvement with InterCommunity Health increased when the Suboxone program began at St. Francis in 2017. “InterCommunity is one of our partners in this program. Many patients start off in the emergency department and when we do a warm hand-off to InterCommunity Health, it results in better coordination of care and improves the chances that patients will continue with treatment.”

Dr. Wolf added that serving on InterCommunity Health’s Board of Directors solidifies the strong relationship between the two organizations. “It’s a natural fit for me to serve on the Board. Together, we are better able to meet the needs of the community by expanding programs and improving processes.”

Annan Yakubu is a Certified Public Accountant with experience auditing nonprofit healthcare entities during his five-year tenure at CohnReznik, LLP. He currently works in Stratford at a consulting firm. Mr. Yakubu holds a master’s degree of science in accounting and taxation from the University of Hartford.

“Serving on the Board of Directors for InterCommunity Health will provide me with the opportunity to give back to the community,” said Mr. Yakubu. His other volunteer activities include helping the elderly and individuals with behavioral health challenges.

The post InterCommunity Health Announces Three New Board Members appeared first on InterCommunity .

Let’s Keep the Conversation Going!

Wed, 29 Aug 2018 15:48:00 GMT

On May 14, 2018, InterCommunity sponsored an Addiction Forum in conjunction with MCC’s Drug and Alcohol Recovery Counselor (DARC) program. The event, held at the SBM Charitable Foundation Auditorium at Manchester Community College, featured Shatterproof and an informative discussion about addiction and the importance of eliminating the moral stigmas that present a barrier to recovery for so many people. Presenters included Gary Mendell, CEO and founder of Shatterproof, Kimberly Beauregard, President and CEO of InterCommunity, and Miriam E. Delphin-Rittman, the Commissioner of the Connecticut Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services.

Let’s keep the conversation going….Connecticut and the rest of the nation are experiencing the tragedy of overdose and addiction on a daily basis!

The post Let’s Keep the Conversation Going! appeared first on InterCommunity .

Family Support Group

Thu, 23 Aug 2018 15:50:00 GMT

Do you have a loved one who is experiencing addiction or mental illness? You’re not alone. Learn about the impact of addiction and co-occurring disorders and how you can help your friend or family member work toward recovery. Share with families in similar situations and gain new supports.

WHEN: First and third Tuesdays of the month, 5 – 6 pm

WHERE: InterCommunity, 287 Main St., Room 4, East Hartford

FOR MORE INFORMATION: Contact Brandy Petrone at 860-709-1598

Light refreshments will be served.

Please note this group is most appropriate for participants ages 18 and older. Childcare is not available.

The post Family Support Group appeared first on InterCommunity .

InterCommunity’s 19th Annual Golf Outing

Mon, 30 Jul 2018 16:10:00 GMT

Join us on Thursday, September 20, 2018 at Blackledge Country Club in Hebron, CT for our 19th Annual Golf Outing! Register here.

The post InterCommunity’s 19th Annual Golf Outing appeared first on InterCommunity .

National Health Center Week Celebration in East Hartford

Sun, 29 Jul 2018 16:17:00 GMT

Join us on Thursday, August 16, 2018 in East Hartford at 281 Main St. for free food, health screenings, and fun for the whole family!

The post National Health Center Week Celebration in East Hartford appeared first on InterCommunity .

InterCommunity’s 2018 Signature Event

Wed, 18 Jul 2018 16:50:00 GMT

The post InterCommunity’s 2018 Signature Event appeared first on InterCommunity .

Join InterCommunity for a Community Holiday Collection Event

Fri, 15 Dec 2017 17:37:00 GMT

WHEN: Wednesday, December 20th

TIME: 11:00AM-1:00 PM

WHERE: Augie & Ray’s, 314 Main Street, East Hartford, CT

The post Join InterCommunity for a Community Holiday Collection Event appeared first on InterCommunity .

Dressing Down for a Good Cause

Wed, 06 Dec 2017 17:41:00 GMT

Employees from Chelsea Groton Bank’s Loan Production Office in Glastonbury and 14 branches in New London County participated in a dress down day which generated $456 to benefit the school-based health centers in East Hartford public schools. Employees paid money to wear jeans and/or sneakers to work on a recent Friday. William D. Checkosky, Vice President of Commercial Lending for Chelsea Groton, led the effort after learning of the impact that a donation could make on the health and well being of students in his bank’s community.

Tricia Orozco, Manager of the School-Based Health Centers for InterCommunity, stated: “This donation will help ensure children have access to health services, such as mental health assessments, management of chronic conditions such as asthma, nutrition counseling and more. As a Federally Qualified Health Center Look-Alike (FQHC LA), InterCommunity serves individuals regardless of their ability to pay.”

The post Dressing Down for a Good Cause appeared first on InterCommunity .

2017 Toy Drive

Wed, 29 Nov 2017 17:47:00 GMT

Please bring an unwrapped toy or gift card for a child (ages 0—18). Gifts benefit our Child First and our Children’s Outpatient Clinic*

When: November 27—December 17

Drop off locations:
InterCommunity, 281 Main Street, East Hartford
InterCommunity, 111 Founders Plaza, Suite 1802, East Hartford
Walgreens, 20 Connecticut Boulevard, East Hartford
Augie & Ray’s, 314 Main Street, East Hartford

*100% of children receiving our behavioral health services live at or below the poverty line.

The post 2017 Toy Drive appeared first on InterCommunity .

InterCommunity Achieves Accreditation from The Joint Commission

Fri, 10 Nov 2017 17:51:00 GMT

InterCommunity, Inc. announced it has earned The Joint Commission’s Gold Seal of Approval ^® for Accreditation demonstrating continuous compliance with its performance standards. The Gold Seal of Approval ^® is a symbol of quality that reflects an organization’s commitment to providing safe and effective care.

InterCommunity underwent a rigorous onsite survey in late September. During the review, compliance with health care standards related to several areas, including care, treatment, and services; environment of care; leadership; and screening procedures for the early detection of imminent harm was evaluated. Onsite observations and interviews also were conducted.

Established in 1951, The Joint Commission’s accredits and certifies more than 21,000 health care organizations and programs in the United States. The Joint Commission is the nation’s oldest and largest standards-setting and accrediting body in health care.

“InterCommunity is pleased to receive accreditation from The Joint Commission, the premier health care quality improvement and accrediting body in the nation,” states Kimberly Beauregard, President & CEO.

The Joint Commission’s health care standards are developed in consultation with health care experts and providers, quality improvement measurement experts, and individuals and their families. The standards are informed by scientific literature and expert consensus to help organizations measure, assess and improve performance.

The post InterCommunity Achieves Accreditation from The Joint Commission appeared first on InterCommunity .

Second Pharmacy Opens in Hartford

Wed, 01 Nov 2017 17:54:00 GMT

Genoa, a QoL Healthcare Company, announced the opening of their second on-site pharmacy with InterCommunity, Inc., located in Hartford, Connecticut. Genoa is the largest provider of pharmacy, telepsychiatry, and medication management services for individuals with behavioral health or other complex, chronic health conditions. This is Genoa’s 11 ^th pharmacy in Connecticut.

“InterCommunity is looking forward to the additional Genoa site, located at our Coventry Street Campus. The partnership we have with Genoa will benefit many of our existing patients within the Hartford area. Both companies, Genoa and InterCommunity, share a commitment to serving the physical and behavioral health needs of those in our communities,” stated Tracey Decker, chief integration officer, InterCommunity, Inc.

A 2016 peer-reviewed study published in the Journal of Managed Care and Specialty Pharmacy showed that integrated care models that feature onsite pharmacies produce higher medication adherence rates than community pharmacies, as well as lower rates of hospitalization and lower emergency department utilization. In fact, Genoa’s consumers average more than a 90 percent adherence rate.

Genoa is dedicated to making a positive impact in the lives of the consumers it serves while saving centers time and money.

About Genoa, a QoL Healthcare Company
Genoa has been serving the behavioral health community for more than 15 years. The company is the largest provider of pharmacy, telepsychiatry, and medication management services for individuals with behavioral health or other complex, chronic health conditions.

Genoa provides services to more than 630,000 individuals annually in 45 states and the District of Columbia, filling more than 13 million prescriptions per year. Genoa is the sixth-largest drug chain in the United States with more than 380 pharmacies located onsite within community mental health centers. For more information, visit www.genoa-qol.com .

The post Second Pharmacy Opens in Hartford appeared first on InterCommunity .

Coventry House Bright Space

Tue, 03 Oct 2017 17:59:00 GMT

Coventry House is celebrating its new Bright Space! This Bright Space offers a place for children where they can play and connect with other children, their mothers, and supportive adults who can provide needed services. It is a developmentally appropriate space that is warm, safe, and an inviting place for children to explore through play and experience the joy of childhood. Bright Spaces are a program of Bright Horizons Foundation for Children, a nonprofit organization focused on brightening the lives of children, youth, and families experiencing homelessness and other crises. American Integrity Restoration, located in Glastonbury, was the community partner who did the amazing work to transform this space inside of Coventry House. InterCommunity is extremely grateful to both Bright Horizons and American Integrity Restoration for this generous contribution to us, our clients and their children.

*Coventry House is a long term residential substance abuse treatment facility which provides high-quality substance abuse services for pregnant and parenting women. Coventry House provides a variety of clinical and case management services including daily clinical groups, individual sessions with the counselors, psychiatric care, parenting services, and assistance with housing, employment, and legal issues. Clients who complete the Coventry House program achieve tools to maintain long term sobriety, improve parenting skills, develop a sense of self-worth, resolve legal issues and improve relationships with significant others.

The post Coventry House Bright Space appeared first on InterCommunity .

InterCommunity’s Signature Event

Wed, 20 Sep 2017 20:49:00 GMT

InterCommunity’s Signature Event will be held on:

Friday, November 17, 2017, 6:00 pm – 10:00 pm, Glastonbury Hills Country Club, 239 Country Club Road, South Glastonbury, CT 06073

The post InterCommunity’s Signature Event appeared first on InterCommunity .

InterCommunity’s 18th Annual Golf Tournament

Sat, 19 Aug 2017 20:51:00 GMT

InterCommunity’s 18th Annual Golf Tournament will take place on Thursday, September 28, 2017 starting at 11 AM at the Blackledge Country Club in Hebron. Click here for sponsorship opportunities and registration!

The post InterCommunity’s 18th Annual Golf Tournament appeared first on InterCommunity .

Our Recent Work in the Community

Fri, 18 Aug 2017 21:00:00 GMT

A success story from Intercommunity:

One of Intercommunity’s Child First Clinicians wrote: “I have been meeting with a group of undocumented students every week since March (a boys group and a girls group). One week I meet with 5 boys who are uninsured/undocumented Spanish-speaking and the following week 6 girls in the same situation. All these kids have experienced trauma due to separation from immediate family members and many with trauma just from entering the US (literally blood, sweat, and tears crossing the border). These teenagers have grown to trust and support each other through their stories which have been beautiful to witness.

Along with supporting each other, the kids are working on their own Vision board which focuses on their hopes and dreams for their future in or out of this country and also has created a sense of unity amongst each other. For each group, we have one more group in which they will finalize their board. The last group will be with the girls and the boys together celebrating their journey and also sharing their visions with each other. Additionally, during one of the group times, I invited a coordinator from CT Students for a Dream to present “Know Your Rights” to my 2 groups of students. However, I also extended the invitation to any other student that is undocumented and/or has family that is undocumented and 35 students showed up! When I saw this turn out I realized that our work at the high school is far from over and I am very excited that we now have the SBHC to provide support to these individuals that are so underserved due to their legal status.

The post Our Recent Work in the Community appeared first on InterCommunity .

Appointments Available for Back to School Physicals and Immunizations

Tue, 08 Aug 2017 21:04:00 GMT

InterCommunity has available appointments for your child’s back to school physical, immunizations, or sports physical!

Our community health center at 281 Main Street in East Hartford will be open on Saturday, August 19, 2017 from 9 am – 2 pm.

Call today to schedule an appointment for your child: (860) 569-5900

Did you know that InterCommunity is the new provider of primary care and behavioral health services within East Hartford’s school-based health centers? We are pleased to bring our 40 years of experience into the schools!

The post Appointments Available for Back to School Physicals and Immunizations appeared first on InterCommunity .

InterCommunity, Inc. Named Top Workplace

Sat, 17 Sep 2016 22:29:00 GMT

InterCommunity is pleased to be named a 2016 Top Workplace by The Hartford Courant for the sixth year in a row. InterCommunity is one of the “Super Seven” companies that have earned this honor in all six years since the competition began in 2011.

Awards were based on employee surveys conducted in March and April that measured employees’ confidence in the strategic direction, communication and ethics of the employer, quality of management, and training, appreciation, flexibility, and benefits for employees. The award was presented at the Aqua Turf on September 15, 2016.

The post InterCommunity, Inc. Named Top Workplace appeared first on InterCommunity .

It’s Time to Push Back

Fri, 16 Sep 2016 19:30:00 GMT

It’s time to end the stigma and the pain of opioid addiction in our community. Join us at the Community Town Hall on Friday, October 7, 2016, at 6 PM at the Veteran’s Memorial Clubhouse in East Hartford.

The post It’s Time to Push Back appeared first on InterCommunity .

Don’t Miss This Special Screening!

Fri, 26 Aug 2016 14:54:00 GMT

From the creators of the groundbreaking film, THE ANONYMOUS PEOPLE, comes GENERATION FOUND, a powerful story about one community coming together to ignite a youth addiction recovery revolution in their hometown. This special screening is Thursday, September 29, 2016 at 7:30 PM at the Palace 17/Bowtie Cinemas at 330 New Park Avenue in Hartford. Click here to order tickets!

Independently filmed over the course of two years, GENERATION FOUND takes an unprecedented and intimate look at how a system of treatment centers, sober high schools, alternative peer groups, and collegiate recovery programs can exist in concert to intervene early and provide a real and tested long-term alternative to the “War on Drugs.” It is not only a deeply personal story, but one with real-world utility for communities struggling with addiction worldwide.

The post Don’t Miss This Special Screening! appeared first on InterCommunity .

InterCommunity’s 17th Annual Golf Outing

Tue, 16 Aug 2016 15:24:00 GMT

Join us on Wednesday, September 14, 2016 at the Glastonbury Hills Country Club for InterCommunity’s 17th Annual Golf Outing. Click here for more details and registration information.

The post InterCommunity’s 17th Annual Golf Outing appeared first on InterCommunity .

National Health Center Week Events a Success!

Tue, 16 Aug 2016 15:20:00 GMT

The heat and rain did not ruin InterCommunity’s two celebrations on August 10 and 11 in Hartford and East Hartford. In Hartford at 16 Coventry Street, folks were treated to delicious tacos from Taco Pacifico Food Truck and refreshing Italian ice from Chet’s Italian Ice . Those who participated in a health screening received a voucher for free fruits and vegetables from the nearby North End Farmers’ Market. Information on InterCommunity’s health care services was shared with those who came by.

InterCommunity continued its celebration of National Health Center Week at its East Hartford health center on Thursday, August 11th. Courtney from 95.7 KISS FM was there to greet people and give out prizes. Health screenings were done and faces were painted. People were treated to Chet’s Italian Ice – a perfect treat on a hot summer day! Employees from a local business -East Hartford’s D’Esopo Funeral Chapel – generously donated and grilled hot dogs and hamburgers for attendees.

The post National Health Center Week Events a Success! appeared first on InterCommunity .

Promotion Reflects Growth at InterCommunity

Mon, 18 Jul 2016 15:32:00 GMT

InterCommunity is proud to announce that Tracey Decker has been promoted to Vice President of Integrated Health Services. Tracey joined InterCommunity in February of 2014 to lead the movement of integrated care throughout the organization. Under Tracey’s leadership of primary care services, InterCommunity became a Federally Qualified Health Center Look Alike (FQHC-LA) in 2015. This designation allows InterCommunity to provide quality health care services to all members in the community, regardless of their ability to pay.

Over the past 18 months, InterCommunity’s Primary Care Division has had staggering growth. Its community health center, located at 281 Main Street in East Hartford, recently underwent major renovations resulting in a fully equipped, state-of-the-art primary care suite with six additional exam rooms.

Tracey will continue to work with InterCommunity’s Medical Directors and the Executive Leadership Team to guide the organization through the federal application to gain full FQHC status.

The post Promotion Reflects Growth at InterCommunity appeared first on InterCommunity .

New Primary Care Suite Opened

Fri, 05 Feb 2016 15:38:00 GMT

InterCommunity, Inc. is pleased to announce the opening of a brand new primary care suite at their health clinic located at 281 Main Street, East Hartford. Renovations began in October, almost a year after InterCommunity began offering same-day primary care services to every member of the community who walks in, regardless of their life situation or ability to pay. Within a year’s time, the demand for care had outgrown the four exam rooms that currently exist.

“This has been a vision of InterCommunity for many years. Even with good referrals, our clients were having difficulty accessing quality primary care due to barriers such as transportation and health insurance among other things,” expressed Kimberly L. Beauregard, LCSW, Chief Executive Officer of InterCommunity, Inc.

Connecticut’s Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services (DMHAS) supported InterCommunity’s initiative to provide primary care services along with behavioral health services and funded the approximate $500,000 renovation project.

The clinic welcomes patients of all ages and with InterCommunity’s Help Now System, one can call (860-569-5900) or just walk in. An appointment will be scheduled with a provider on the same day.

Hours of operation are: Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday 8:30 a.m. – 5:00 p.m., Thursday 10:00 a.m. – 6:30 p.m., and Friday 8:30 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.

The public is invited to view the new primary care space at 281 Main Street, East Hartford, on Thursday, February 18th between 11:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. Light refreshments will be served.

In addition to providing primary care services, InterCommunity also provides a wide array of behavioral health services and substance use treatment and recovery-supportive services, with many sites in the Hartford area. For more information, please visit www.intercommunityct.org.

The post New Primary Care Suite Opened appeared first on InterCommunity .

WTNH Channel 8 News Interviews InterCommunity

Fri, 05 Feb 2016 15:35:00 GMT

http://wtnh.com/2016/02/04/worst-state-budget-in-our-lifetimes/

The post WTNH Channel 8 News Interviews InterCommunity appeared first on InterCommunity .

InterCommunity Receives 2015 Hartford Courant and Fox CT 2015 Top Workplace Award

Mon, 21 Sep 2015 17:04:00 GMT

I NTERCOMMUNITY, INC. RECEIVES TOP WORKPLACE AWARD FOR FIFTH YEAR IN A ROW

InterCommunity, Inc., a community health center in East Hartford, CT, has been awarded a 2015 Top Workplace, by The Hartford Courant and Fox CT. The Top Workplaces lists are based solely on the results of an employee feedback survey administered by Workplace Dynamics, a research firm that specializes in organizational health and workplace improvement.

This year, a total of 60 winners were selected from a pool of 987 companies. This is the fifth consecutive year that InterCommunity has been named a Top Workplace, an honor designated upon only nine organizations in the state of Connecticut.

This designation is placed upon InterCommunity’s Primary Care and Behavioral Health divisions. Next year, InterCommunity hopes that the designation will span across their newly formed Addiction Services as well (formerly ADRC), transitioning the organization from the Small Category (50-149 employees) to the Mid-Size Category, (150-499 employees).

“We have worked towards creating a new InterCommunity, one where clients can experience smooth transition across programs and levels of care, and staff has enhanced opportunities for career growth and recognition,” said Tyler Booth, LCSW, COO of InterCommunity.

InterCommunity’s health center provides same-day primary care services to every member of the community who walks in, regardless of life situation or ability to pay. They also provide a wide array of behavioral health services. InterCommunity’s Addiction Services offers a similarly wide range of substance use treatment and recovery-supportive services, with many sites in the Hartford area.

The post InterCommunity Receives 2015 Hartford Courant and Fox CT 2015 Top Workplace Award appeared first on InterCommunity .

InterCommunity Receives DMHAS Funding to Provide Young Adult Services

Wed, 16 Sep 2015 17:09:00 GMT

InterCommunity was the recent recipient of funding from the Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services (DMHAS) to provide staff support to enhance and improve Young Adult Services within the agency!

“InterCommunity has always believed that young adults need and deserve opportunities for their future,” said Kimberly Beauregard, LCSW, President and CEO of InterCommunity, Inc.

Check out the Press Release here: YAS PR

The post InterCommunity Receives DMHAS Funding to Provide Young Adult Services appeared first on InterCommunity .

InterCommunity Summer Newsletter 2015

Wed, 10 Jun 2015 17:12:00 GMT

Check out our Summer 2015 Newsletter here: IC Newsletter_6-15

The post InterCommunity Summer Newsletter 2015 appeared first on InterCommunity .

InterCommunity Receives $275,000 Grant from Hartford Foundation for Public Giving

Tue, 26 May 2015 18:08:00 GMT

Continuing its strong support for health and human services in the Greater Hartford area, the Hartford Foundation for Public Giving has awarded InterCommunity a three year $275,000 grant, to support staff and administrative costs related to their newly designated Federally Qualified Health Center Look-Alike (FQHC LA).

This latest grant continues a vital partnership between the Hartford Foundation and InterCommunity, ensuring the health center’s ability to continue providing much needed services to the Greater Hartford community.

“This generous grant from the Hartford Foundation demonstrates their commitment to investing in whole person health care,” said Kimberly Beauregard, InterCommunity President and CEO.

Effective March 1, 2015, InterCommunity, Inc. was officially designated a federally qualified health center look-alike (FQHC LA) by the U.S Department of Health and Human Services, Health Resources and Services Administration. An FQHC LA is a health center that serves an underserved area or population, offers a sliding fee scale, provides comprehensive services, has an ongoing quality assurance program, and has a governing board of directors that includes those who are served by the health center.

This grant, made possible in part by the generosity of the Norma and Natale Sestero Fund and the Ruth Kellog Fund at the Hartford Foundation for Public Giving, will help to continue to improve access to primary care, and help to bridge physical and behavioral health services to benefit the Greater Hartford community at large.

The post InterCommunity Receives $275,000 Grant from Hartford Foundation for Public Giving appeared first on InterCommunity .

InterCommunity Receives National Award for Help Now Program

Wed, 13 May 2015 18:10:00 GMT

On May 7, 2015 InterCommunity was awarded the 2015 Dorland Health Case In Point Platinum Award in the category of Behavioral Health Case Management, for their Help Now Same Day Access Program. Tyler Booth, InterCommunity COO and creator of the innovative program, which provides immediate access to patients of InterCommunity, was in DC to accept the prestigious award.

Press Release IC PR 2015 CASE IN POINT

The post InterCommunity Receives National Award for Help Now Program appeared first on InterCommunity .

InterCommunity Announces FQHC LA Designation

Fri, 20 Mar 2015 18:11:00 GMT

Exciting news for InterCommunity! Effective March 1, 2015 InterCommunity has been designated a Federally Qualified Health Center Look Alike- FQHC LA by the U.S Department of Health and Human Services, Health Resources and Services Administration.

FQHC LAs qualify for enhanced reimbursement from Medicare and Medicaid, as well as other benefits. FQHC LAs serve an underserved area or population, offer a sliding fee scale, provide comprehensive services, have an ongoing quality assurance program, and have a governing board of directors that includes those who are served by the health center.

This a huge accomplishment for InterCommunity and the future of the organization. Congrats to the primary care team (pictured below) and all those involved with this tremendous undertaking!

Press Release: FQHC LA Press Release

The post InterCommunity Announces FQHC LA Designation appeared first on InterCommunity .

InterCommunity and InterCommunity Recovery Centers Announce Affiliation

Mon, 12 Jan 2015 18:13:00 GMT

Effective February 1, 2015, InterCommunity and InterCommunity Recovery Centers announced a Corporate Affiliation. This comes after almost a year of the organizations working together to explore how to best work together to provide primary care, mental health, and addiction recovery services to those in need in Hartford, East Hartford, and the surrounding towns.

Corporate Affiliation Press Release

The post InterCommunity and InterCommunity Recovery Centers Announce Affiliation appeared first on InterCommunity .