Education - Sensenbrenner Primary Care

Setting a Strong Health Foundation for 2026

January 15, 2026

A new year brings a fresh opportunity to refocus on habits that support your long-term health and well-being. Instead of overwhelming yourself with large, dramatic resolutions, small and sustainable changes often lead to the best results. At Sensenbrenner Primary Care, we encourage patients to view January as a reset—a chance to create routines that strengthen your health throughout the year. One of the most effective steps you can take is scheduling your annual wellness visit. These preventive appointments allow your provider to assess your current health, update screenings, review medications, and identify potential concerns early. Preventive care helps you stay ahead of issues and maintain clarity about your health status. Small daily adjustments can also make a meaningful impact. Consider starting with: -A consistent sleep schedule -Increasing water intake -Adding...

White Bean Chicken Chili

January 15, 2026

Education, Uncategorized

Ingredients: 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken 1 tbsp olive oil 1 onion, diced 2 garlic cloves, minced 2 cans white beans, drained and rinsed 1 can green chiles 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth 1 tsp cumin 1 tsp oregano Salt and pepper to taste Optional: spinach, corn, or cilantro for topping Instructions: -In a large pot, sauté onion in olive oil until softened. -Add garlic and cook for 1–2 minutes. -Stir in beans, chicken, green chiles, broth, and seasonings. -Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20–25 minutes. -Add optional spinach or corn during the last 5 minutes. Serve warm, topped with cilantro, lime, or shredded cheese if desired. It’s a great way to nourish your body during the colder months while keeping preparation simple and wholesome. ...

All About Health Insurance Premiums: What They Are and Where Your Dollars Go

January 15, 2026

Education, Uncategorized

Understanding health insurance premiums can feel overwhelming, especially with all the terminology and costs involved. At Sensenbrenner Primary Care, we want to help you feel confident navigating insurance so you can make informed decisions about your healthcare. Simply put, a health insurance premium is the amount you pay—usually monthly—to maintain active coverage, whether or not you use medical services in that period. But where do those premium dollars actually go? Transparency from insurers like Blue Cross and Blue Shield of North Carolina gives us a helpful look at how premium funds are typically allocated. According to Blue Cross NC, a large portion—about 87 cents of every premium dollar—goes toward paying for members’ medical care. This includes costs for doctor visits, outpatient services (like imaging or physical...

Important Announcement from SPC

December 10, 2025

Education, Uncategorized

After more than four decades of dedicated care, Dr. Sensenbrenner will officially retire at the end of this year. His final day in the office will be December 29, 2025. We will miss him greatly, but we are also incredibly happy for him as he steps into a new season—one filled with time for grandchildren and the opportunity to pursue interests and hobbies he has long looked forward to. As part of this transition, Dr. Sensenbrenner is proud to have Dr. Emery Young assume the care of his patients. Having worked directly with Dr. Young, he strongly endorses him as both an exceptional physician and a trusted colleague. Patients can feel confident knowing their care will remain in capable, compassionate hands. For current or prospective MDVIP patients, please...

Healthy Thanksgiving Ideas for a Lighter, Happier Holiday

November 18, 2025

Education

Thanksgiving is a time for connection, gratitude, and—of course—delicious food. While the traditional holiday table tends to be on the heavier side, there are plenty of simple ways to lighten things up without missing out on the flavors you love. Here are some easy, approachable ideas to help you enjoy a healthier Thanksgiving this year. 1. Build a Balanced Plate You do not need to avoid your favorite holiday foods. Instead, focus on proportions that support steady energy and digestion: -Half of your plate: vegetables (roasted, steamed, or fresh) -One quarter: lean protein such as turkey breast -One quarter: starches, including potatoes, stuffing, or whole grains This approach allows you to enjoy variety while maintaining nutritional balance. 2. Incorporate More Vegetables Adding an extra vegetable dish or two increases fiber, color, and nutrients...

Healthy Spiced Apple Crumble

October 13, 2025

Education

Servings: 6 | Prep: 15 min | Cook: 35 min Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Peel, core, and slice 5–6 medium apples, such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp. In a large bowl, toss the apples with 2 tablespoons of maple syrup or honey, 1 teaspoon cinnamon, ¼ teaspoon nutmeg, ½ teaspoon vanilla extract, and 1 teaspoon lemon juice. Spread the apple mixture evenly in a greased 8×8-inch baking dish. For the crumble topping, mix ¾ cup old-fashioned oats, ¼ cup whole wheat flour or almond flour, 2 tablespoons coconut sugar or brown sugar, 2 tablespoons melted coconut oil or unsalted butter, ½ teaspoon cinnamon, a pinch of salt, and ¼ cup chopped nuts if desired. Stir until the mixture is crumbly, then sprinkle it evenly over...

Managing Asthma and COPD: Breathe Easier with the Right Medications

October 13, 2025

Education, Uncategorized

By: Nadia Ahmed, PharmD & Chronic Care Management Expert Asthma and COPD (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease) are two of the most common lung conditions that affect breathing—and your daily life. The good news? With the right medications and proper management, many people can reduce flare-ups, stay active, and breathe more comfortably. Asthma vs. COPD: What’s the Difference? While both affect the lungs, they aren’t the same: Asthma often starts in childhood and is usually triggered by allergies, exercise, or cold air. COPD (which includes chronic bronchitis and emphysema) usually develops after years of smoking or long-term exposure to lung irritants. Both conditions involve airway inflammation, making it harder to breathe. But each requires a tailored treatment plan. Medication Basics: What You Might Be Prescribed 1. Quick-Relief Inhalers (Rescue Inhalers) Used during flare-ups or when...

Healthy Aging Month: Tips for Adults of All Ages

September 16, 2025

Education, Uncategorized

September is Healthy Aging Month, a reminder that healthy habits matter at every stage of life. Whether you’re in your 30s or your 70s, focusing on wellness now can help prevent health concerns down the road. 3 key areas to focus on: Preventive Screenings: Annual wellness visits, blood pressure checks, cholesterol tests, and cancer screenings are important tools for early detection. Stay Active: Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate exercise each week to support heart, bone, and mental health. Nutrition & Hydration: Choose a balanced diet rich in vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains—and don’t forget to drink plenty of water. Proactive care today means a healthier, more active tomorrow. If you haven’t had your annual wellness exam this year, now is a great time to schedule it. ...

Managing Multiple Medications? Let’s Simplify Things!

September 16, 2025

Education, Uncategorized

If you’re taking several medications every day, you’re not alone. Many adults—especially those managing chronic conditions like high blood pressure, diabetes, or arthritis—find themselves juggling multiple prescriptions, over-the-counter meds, and supplements. It can feel overwhelming, but don’t worry—there are simple ways to stay on track and avoid common pitfalls. Why It Matters Taking your medications exactly as prescribed is crucial to keeping your conditions under control and avoiding complications. But when you’re managing multiple pills, it’s easy to: -Miss a dose (or take a double dose by mistake) -Confuse which medication is for which condition -Forget to refill a prescription -Experience side effects or drug interactions Let’s look at some practical ways to make medication management easier. Tips to Simplify Your Medication Routine Create a Daily Routine: Take your medications at the same time every...

Sheet Pan Chicken & Veggies

September 16, 2025

Education, Uncategorized

Ingredients (serves 4): 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts 2 cups sliced sweet potatoes 2 cups brussel sprouts, sliced 1 red bell pepper, sliced 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced 2 tbsp olive oil 1 tsp garlic powder 1 tsp paprika ½ tsp salt ½ tsp black pepper Optional: fresh parsley or lemon wedges for garnish Directions: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper. Place chicken breasts in the center of the sheet pan. Arrange veggies around the chicken. Drizzle olive oil evenly over chicken and veggies. Sprinkle with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Toss veggies gently to coat. Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F and veggies are tender. Garnish with parsley or a squeeze of lemon before serving. 👉 Tip: Make extra to pack for healthy lunches the next day! ...