Neighborhood Health Center

Ever left a doctor's appointment feeling confused by words like "referral," "acute," or "prior authorization?" You are not alone. 🩺

Medical language can feel like a whole new language and you are not expected to know it all. But understanding a few key words can help you feel more confident and take an active role in your care.

That's why we put together a simple guide to 12 medical terms everyone should know, explained in plain, easy-to-understand language.

From what a "screening" actually means to the difference between "outpatient" and "inpatient" care, this guide breaks it all down for you.

Learn More: https://bit.ly/health-terms

And remember — if something doesn't make sense at your next visit, it is always okay to ask: "Can you explain that in a different way?" Our care teams are always here to help. 💙

12 Medical Terms Everyone Should Know Learn 12 common medical and healthcare terms explained in simple language to help you feel more confident at your doctor’s visit.

Heads up — SNAP changes are coming June 1. That's just around the corner. 📢

If you receive SNAP benefits in Oregon, now is the time to get ready. Here's what you can do this week:
✅ Gather proof of your rent or mortgage and utility bills
✅ Update your address with ODHS if you've moved recently
✅ Watch your mail, email, and notices from ODHS closely
✅ If ODHS contacts you, respond as quickly as you can

If you're a household where all adults are 60 or older or have a disability and no one has earned income, check your mail especially closely. Renewal interviews are starting again on June 1.

Questions? Contact ODHS or your local office for help.

Learn More:

Oregon Department of Human Services : SNAP Work Rules : Food Benefits : State of Oregon Some adult SNAP participants need to meet work requirements to get SNAP benefits for longer than three months

If you're a parent in Oregon, you're not imagining it — young people are struggling more than ever. 💙

According to Mental Health America's 2025 report, Oregon ranks among the worst states in the country for youth mental health. It's a reality we think about every day at NHC.

As a parent, it can be hard to know when your child is just going through a rough patch or when something more is going on.

Here are some signs to watch for:
🔹 Withdrawing from friends, family, or activities they used to enjoy
🔹 Changes in sleep — sleeping too much or too little
🔹 Dropping grades or avoiding school
🔹 Increased irritability, sadness, or anger
🔹 Talking about feeling hopeless or worthless

If you notice these signs, you don't have to figure it out alone. NHC has Behavioral Health Consultants in our primary care clinics and in our school-based health centers so students can get support right where they already are.

Learn More: https://bit.ly/health_behavioral

Important Note: The information in this post is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Please talk with your care team about questions or concerns related to your health.

Behavioral Health Access behavioral healthcare support to manage difficult situations, chronic pain, or new diagnoses. Our qualified providers use patient-centered care to help.

Allergy season is here. And us Oregonians know it can be rough. 🌿

The Willamette Valley has some of the highest pollen counts in the country, especially in late spring and early summer. Congestion, runny nose, itchy eyes, sneezing — sound familiar?

NHC Family Physician Dr. Carrasco shares his top tips for getting through allergy season, including:
✅ Which over-the-counter medicines actually help
⚠️ What to avoid, especially if you have high blood pressure
📅 When it's time to make an appointment
💡 Pro tip: Check pollen counts in your area at pollen.com by entering your zip code.

Read the full post: https://bit.ly/spring_allergies

Ask a Provider: How to Get Through Allergy Season Learn which medications are the best to combat allergies during allergy season.