Education - Sensenbrenner Primary Care

Understanding health insurance premiums and healthcare costs

Understanding Health Insurance Premiums: What They Are and Where Your Money Goes

September 29, 2026

Understanding Health Insurance Premiums: What They Are and Where Your Money Goes Understanding health insurance premiums can feel overwhelming, especially with all the terminology and costs involved. At Sensenbrenner Primary Care, we want to help patients better understand their health insurance so they can make informed decisions about their healthcare. Simply put, a health insurance premium is the amount you pay usually monthly to maintain active health insurance coverage, whether or not you use medical services during that month. Where Do Your Health Insurance Premium Dollars Go? So, where does that money actually go? Health insurance premiums help insurers pay for the healthcare services used by members. According to information published by Blue Cross and Blue Shield of North Carolina, a significant portion of premium dollars goes toward paying for...

Fresh Flavors for Spring: Healthy Wrap Ideas

March 17, 2026

Education

Looking for something quick, light, and nutritious? These easy wrap ideas are perfect for busy nights at the soccer field or quick, on-the-go lunches. With a balance of protein, fiber, and fresh ingredients, wraps are a simple way to stay fueled without a lot of prep. Turkey Avocado WrapA classic and satisfying option packed with healthy fats and lean protein.What to include: Turkey, sliced avocado, lettuce, tomato, and hummus or mustard in a whole wheat wrap. Chicken Caesar Wrap (Lightened Up)All the flavor of a favorite salad in a convenient, portable form.What to include: Grilled chicken, chopped romaine, shaved parmesan, and a light Caesar dressing in a whole wheat wrap. Veggie Hummus WrapA plant-forward option full of crunch and color.What to include: Hummus, cucumber, shredded carrots, spinach, and...

Lemon Herb Sheet Pan Chicken and Vegetables

February 17, 2026

Education, Uncategorized

A simple, nourishing meal that combines cozy winter comfort with fresh spring flavors. This one pan recipe is packed with lean protein, fiber rich vegetables, and bright citrus. Ingredients 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs2 cups broccoli florets1 cup baby carrots or sliced carrots1 bell pepper sliced1 small red onion sliced2 tablespoons olive oilJuice of 1 lemon2 cloves garlic minced1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs or thyme or rosemarySalt and pepper to taste Instructions Preheat oven to 400°F and line a sheet pan with parchment paper. Arrange chicken and vegetables evenly on the pan. In a small bowl, mix olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, herbs, salt, and pepper. Drizzle mixture over chicken and vegetables and toss vegetables lightly to coat. Roast for 20 to 25 minutes or until chicken is cooked through and...

Sleep Health in Winter: Why Seasonal Changes Affect Your Rest

February 17, 2026

Education, Uncategorized

Many people notice changes in their sleep during the winter months. Shorter days, reduced sunlight, and shifts in daily routines can all influence the body’s internal clock, known as the circadian rhythm. This system regulates when we feel alert and when we feel sleepy, largely based on exposure to light. During winter, decreased daylight can weaken circadian signals and alter normal sleep timing. Some individuals experience increased daytime fatigue, difficulty waking in the morning, or more fragmented sleep at night. These changes are partly related to melatonin, the hormone that helps regulate sleep. Because melatonin is produced in darkness, longer nights can extend its release, which may increase feelings of sleepiness without improving sleep quality. Environmental and behavioral factors also play a role. Colder temperatures, reduced physical...

Setting a Strong Health Foundation for 2026

January 15, 2026

Education, Uncategorized

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. ...

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...

Asthma and COPD inhalers used to help manage breathing symptoms

Managing Asthma and COPD: Breathe Easier with the Right Medications

October 13, 2025

Education

By: Nadia Ahmed, PharmD & Chronic Care Management Expert Asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) are common lung conditions that can affect your breathing, activity level and quality of life. Although asthma and COPD are different conditions, both can cause symptoms such as shortness of breath, coughing and wheezing. With the right treatment plan, many people can better control their symptoms, reduce flare-ups and breathe more comfortably. Asthma vs. COPD: What's the Difference? Asthma and COPD both affect the airways, but they are not the same condition. Asthma can occur at any age and often involves symptoms that vary over time. Symptoms may be triggered by allergens, exercise, respiratory infections, smoke, cold air or other environmental factors. COPD is a chronic lung disease that includes conditions such as chronic bronchitis...