Deborah Weidenhamer – Sunridge Medical Center

HHV6 Link To Cancer and Chronic Disease

Deborah Weidenhamer — Mon, 13 May 2024 14:00:16 +0000

HHV6, a human herpes virus discovered in the mid-eighties, is active in nearly all Lyme disease patients along with borrelias Burgdorferi, the infamous bacteria known to cause Lyme. Though often referred to as a co-infection, HHV6 is not transmitted with the Lyme infection. The human herpes virus (HHV6) is opportunistic, and lays inactive in hosts waiting for the moment of least environmental resistance to strike. A Lyme infection is one such opportunity HHV6 commonly takes to present itself.
There are two variations of the human herpes virus known as HHV-6A and HHV-6B. Nearly identical, the two virus strains differ only in their activation cycles within the host.

HHV-6A

This particular strain of HHV-6 is commonly found in patients with Lyme disease, Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS), Multiple Sclerosis (MS), AIDS, and Cancer. Most often it strikes within an adult host and is associated with neurological symptoms and fatigue.

HHV6B

Affecting nearly 100% of children by the age of two, it commonly presents with fever and encephalitis in infants. Reactivation of HHV-6B can also occur in patients of all ages who have received a transplant. The B strain of HHV6 is characterized by mild flu-like symptoms and rash in some cases. Progression of this strain is accompanied by high fever, encephalitis and even seizures. In most cases, and after the initial activation, the virus lies dormant or latent. Reactivation of HHV6B occurs in 4% of transplant patients causing complications such as encephalitis, pneumonitis and liver failure.

Differences In The HHV6A and HHV6B Virus Strains

Though nearly identical, there are differences in epidemiology and pathogenicity of the two strains. HHV-6B is acquired in early childhood (often in daycare centers), infecting up to 90% of most populations during infancy, while HHV-6A, is generally not seen until adulthood. Both versions of the virus can be found in saliva and are assumed to be spread this way as well.

Dangers Associated With HHV6

HHV-6 is of greatest concern to immunocompromised patients with a high HHV6 viral load, especially those who have had organ or bone marrow transplants, those who are HIV positive, and those with chronic Lyme disease complex. By attacking a number of cells in the body which aid its ability to fight off disease and infection, HHV6 is immune suppressive and can activate other viruses in the process.

HHV6 Attacks the Following Healthy Cells in the Human Body

- CD 4 lymphocytes

- NKTs

- Oligodedrocytes

- CD8 cells

- Microglial cells

Pink areas indicate HHV6 infection thru a staining process

Though HHV-6 lies dormant for long periods of time, once reactivated, infection can occur quickly. During its dormancy the virus waits in salivary glands, kidneys or the brain until it is reactivated.

Connection to Cancer

Since more and more research continues to uncover a link between viruses and chronic illness including many cancers, HHV6 is at the forefront of continued study. Its link to cancer comes via a protein called P53 which regulates the cell cycle and acts as a tumor suppressor. HHV6 is known to attack this particular protein and is often found active in cancer patients.

The Herpes-Cancer Connection: What the Research Says

Herpes and Cervical Cancer

One of the most well-established links between herpes and cancer relates to cervical cancer. However, it’s crucial to note that this connection is specific to the human papillomavirus (HPV), a sexually transmitted infection distinct from HSV. While both viruses can cause genital sores, HPV is the primary cause of cervical cancer.

Herpes and Kaposi’s Sarcoma

Kaposi’s sarcoma, a rare form of cancer that develops in the lining of blood and lymph vessels, has been linked to herpes simplex virus type 8 (HSV-8), also known as Kaposi’s sarcoma-associated herpesvirus (KSHV). This virus is different from the HSV-1 and HSV-2 strains commonly associated with oral and genital herpes. While HSV-8 is a contributing factor to Kaposi’s sarcoma, it typically affects individuals with compromised immune systems or autoimmune disorders.

Herpes and Other Cancers

Studies have suggested potential associations between herpes and other types of cancer, such as oral and prostate cancer. Many factors, including lifestyle choices, genetic predisposition, and other health conditions, can influence an individual’s cancer risk.

Natural Medicine Financial Assistance FAQ

Deborah Weidenhamer — Mon, 06 May 2024 22:07:36 +0000

Natural Medicine Financial Assistance Programs FAQ at Sunridge Medical

At Sunridge Medical, we appreciate that navigating the financial aspects of natural medicine treatment can be overwhelming. Our team is dedicated to supporting our patients throughout their medical treatment journey, including providing guidance on financial assistance and insurance coverage options. We have compiled a list of frequently asked questions to help you better understand your options for affording the care you need.

Q: Does Sunridge Medical accept health insurance for medical treatment?

A: Most Naturopathic Medical Treatments, such as those offered at Sunridge Medical are rarely covered by most private insurance companies, including Medicare and Medicaid. However, every insurance policy is different in coverage assistance for patients, so we encourage you to check with your provider for the specifics on coverage.

Because most of our services fall under Naturopathic Medical Treatments, it is uncommon for insurance companies to cover the costs. You should verify with your insurance provider whether any part of your treatment may be eligible for coverage or reimbursement. In some cases, certain diagnostic tests or ancillary services might be covered, even if the primary treatment is not.

Navigating Insurance for Natural Medicine Treatment

To determine if your insurance plan offers any coverage for naturopathic treatments, follow these steps:

Review your policy documents or contact your insurance provider directly to inquire about coverage for alternative or complementary medical treatments.
Ask specifically about coverage for naturopathic medicine, as well as any associated diagnostic tests or ancillary services that may be part of your treatment plan.
If your primary treatment is not covered, investigate whether certain aspects of your care, such as specific tests or supportive therapies, might still be eligible for coverage or reimbursement.

Q: Will my insurance company pay for services at Sunridge Medical?

A: Insurance-based healthcare usually follows standard treatment protocols and doesn’t offer access to naturopathic healthcare as the primary treatment option. At Sunridge Medical, we provide care to all patients with a holistic approach which is valuable as it incorporates the latest research.

The cost of treatment for each patient is determined by the disease’s complexity. A treatment plan for care is developed by the patient care team and delivered to patients and their representatives along with pricing before starting treatment at Sunridge Medical. Patients receive transparent price information on the cost of care, a level of clarity not typically seen in hospital or oncology group settings. Unlike standard insurance-based care, where coverage details are often unclear, leading to surprise bills from insurers, our approach prioritizes transparency in healthcare costs.

Q: Can I use my Health Savings Account (HSA) or Flexible Spending Account (FSA) for Natural Medicine Financial Assistance payments?

A: Yes, payments for eligible treatment expenses can be made using your HSA or FSA, as these accounts are designed to cover out-of-pocket healthcare costs.

Q: What is the cost of care at Sunridge Medical?

A: The cost of care will vary depending on the individual treatment plan. We believe in transparency with our patients, and we provide detailed information on the cost associated with each part of your treatment plan during the initial consultation.

Q: Are there any patient assistance programs available at Sunridge Medical?

A: We are aware of the financial burden that can accompany medical treatment, and while we do not directly provide financial assistance, our staff is knowledgeable of external resources and programs that patients can apply for. We’re committed to supporting patients in exploring these opportunities.

Q: Are payment plans available for treatment at Sunridge Medical?

A: We are sensitive to the financial pressures accompanying medical treatment. While we require payment at the time of service, we can also help facilitate payments through the American Medical Health Alliance which specializes in assisting medical patients who receive alternative, holistic, integrative care in assisting in collecting some insurance reimbursement for their medical care. Additionally, some medical financiers offer options ranging from low to no-interest plans, extended payment periods, and credit lines that you can apply toward your treatment costs.

Q: Can I submit the costs of my treatment at Sunridge Medical to my insurance for out-of-network reimbursement?

A: Depending on the specifics of your out-of-network benefits, you may be eligible to submit the costs of your treatment for reimbursement. Our staff can provide the necessary paperwork for you to submit a claim to your insurance company.

Q: Who can I speak with at Sunridge Medical for more personalized financial guidance?

A: Our patient coordinators are your first point of contact for any financial concerns or questions. They can provide detailed information about available payment options, assist with healthcare financing program applications, and guide you through the process of seeking potential insurance reimbursement.

For more detailed financial assistance, please contact our office directly and a member of our team will be glad to help. We focus on your healing and reduce the stress of financial planning for your treatment.

Sunridge Medical is committed to providing exceptional care and seeks to ease the financial burden associated with medical treatment. If you have any additional questions that were not covered in this FAQ, please call us at 1-800-923-7878.

Rethinking Healthcare: Why ‘Alternative’ Medicine Needs a New Narrative

Deborah Weidenhamer — Fri, 03 May 2024 19:28:14 +0000

Why Alternative Healthcare Needs a New Narrative

In the complex world of healthcare, there continues to be a distinction between what is deemed ‘conventional medicine’ and alternative healthcare. Often synonymous with Western medicine, the former is the go-to for most healthcare systems, underpinned by rigorous scientific testing and medical school teachings.

Alternative healthcare services are often associated with traditional healing practices from around the globe, which are frequently relegated to the sidelines, sometimes labeled as untrustworthy, unproven, or even dangerous. But what if this narrative were not only oversimplified but also completely opposite of the truth?

The Historical Backdrop of Medicine

The Once and Future Medicine

Medicine, as we recognize it today, did not suddenly materialize with the advent of scientific rigor and evidence-based principles. In fact, for much of human history, medical practices were holistic, incorporating the influences of spiritual beliefs, dietary guidelines, and a range of therapies not so dissimilar to what is now termed alternative healthcare.

Alternative forms of healthcare are found in ancient civilizations — from Egyptian to Indian, Chinese to Mesoamerican — developed sophisticated medical systems that combined botanical knowledge, physical therapies, and intricate understanding of the body’s energy or life force. These practices were not viewed as alternatives; they were the conventional medicine of their time, continually evolving through research, observation, trial, and error.

The Renaissance and Beyond

The dawn of the modern era brought significant advancements across various fields, including medicine. Western medicine, with its emphasis on scientific inquiry and systematic investigation, led to crucial discoveries in anatomy, physiology, and pathology, shaping the way we understand and approach health. However, this period also witnessed the historic partition between spiritual and scientific knowledge.

Practices that didn’t conform to the emerging standards were shunned, paving the way for what we now call conventional medicine. Meanwhile, alternative healthcare practices persisted on the peripheries.

Modern Validation of Alternative Medicine

A Paradigm of Pain

The contemporary view tends to cast the conversation as one of Western Medicine versus Alternative Medicine with Traditional Chinese Medicine, Naturopathy, and Homeopathy all thrown in the mix. This thinking dismisses centuries of empirical evidence that underpins many alternative practices.

Yet, today, there is an increasing body of peer-reviewed research that supports their efficacy. Acupuncture, once maligned by the medical orthodoxy, now has a place in the management of chronic pain. Herbal remedies, often passed over in favor of pharmaceuticals, are being investigated for their potential to combat diseases including cancer.

Stress is recognized as one of the biggest contributors to illness with the best management in Western and alternative medicine recognized as yoga and meditation. These practices were once considered far outside the realm of medical intervention, are now being embraced to manage stress and mental health conditions.

Bridging the Gap

The dichotomy between alternative and conventional medicine is not clinically meaningful, and it is often not in the best interests of patients. A more holistic understanding of health encourages the examination of a broader range of treatment modalities. Many patients are already integrating these approaches into their healthcare regimens, often without their physician’s knowledge.

Bridging this gap officially could lead to better-informed treatments, better patient outcomes, and a more patient-centric healthcare system.

The Spectrum of Evidence

It is essential to recognize that “evidence-based” should not be synonymous with “peer-reviewed clinical trials.” The diversity of evidence varies across different practices. In the case of immunotherapy, a common treatment for cancer in allopathic Western medicine builds up the patient’s immune system and ability to fight and destroy cancer cells. However, immunotherapy has been the ‘standard of care’ for alternative healthcare for centuries.

Vitamins and herbs have been administered to strengthen the patient’s constitution and overall health making way for the kill-off of cancer cells. Even though large-scale, double-blind studies may be limited, the discipline can draw upon centuries of patient feedback and observational data. By broadening our definition of evidence, we can connect conventional medicine with the best of what ‘alternative’ practices have to offer.

Challenging the Dichotomy

The Language of Healing

The nomenclature “alternative medicine” is, at its core, misleading. It implies a secondary or even rebellious status. Given that many so-called ‘alternative’ practices predate modern medicine, the label itself is anachronistic. This seemingly innocuous language reinforces a hierarchy that doesn’t always reflect patient needs or preferences. Shifting our terminology to describe these practices as complementary and alternative healthcare may seem trivial but reflect a profound change in perspective, placing all therapeutic options in a more balanced framework.

Reshaping Policy and Education

Medical schools and healthcare policy play a critical role in shaping the next generation of healthcare providers and the systems they work within. Since naturopathic practices have thousands of years of history, there are no patents for drug companies to earn and this has impacted many areas of their use. By integrating training on alternative therapies, institutions can offer a more comprehensive and adaptable education.

Similarly, policymakers must work towards regulatory frameworks that allow these therapies to be integrated safely and effectively. The challenge is to create a system that is both open to new treatments and holds them to an appropriately high standard.

Overcoming the Stigma

There is, undeniably, a stigma attached to alternative medicine. Sometimes this is warranted, as practices may lack rigorous scrutiny or may be marketed with unsubstantiated claims. However, not all alternative treatments are created equal, just as not all conventional treatments are flawless. By focusing on outcomes, safety, and patient education, we can begin to redefine the conversation around alternative medicine, seeing it as part of a continuum rather than a separate category.

The Path to Integration

The Holistic Hospital

Some forward-thinking healthcare institutions are already incorporating alternative therapies into their care models. This ranges from offering acupuncture in cancer centers to using aromatherapy for pain management. The holistic hospital of the future should be a beacon of integrative care, seamlessly blending the best of both worlds to provide individualized treatment plans for each patient.

Provider Perspectives

Bringing alternative and conventional healthcare providers to the same table can facilitate a sharing of expertise. Medical practitioners need not become experts in alternative therapies, but understanding their potential benefits and risks is crucial. This can lead to a more collaborative approach to patient care, where knowledge is shared and patients are not forced to choose one path over the other.

Research and Regulation

For alternative medicine to be fully integrated into the healthcare mainstream, we need rigorous research that evaluates their effectiveness and safety. This requires significant investment and a shift in priorities within the healthcare and research communities. Furthermore, clear regulatory standards can help ensure that patients have access to safe, effective treatments, regardless of their origin.

Patient Empowerment

Ultimately, the patient must be at the center of their healthcare decisions. By empowering individuals with information about the full spectrum of treatment options, patients can be partners in their care. This shared decision-making process acknowledges the complexity of healthcare and the numerous factors that influence the healing process.

In conclusion, the framing of ‘alternative’ medicine as unconventional does a disservice to the healthcare community as a whole. The time has come for a more open and inclusive approach that values all effective treatments and their long historical lineages.

By working to integrate these diverse practices, Sunridge Medical embraces a healthcare system that truly meets the needs of our diverse patient population. The health of our patients, after all, is not served by allegiance to any particular healthcare philosophy but by a commitment to the thoughtful and equitable application of all knowledge that can alleviate suffering and save lives.

For answers and to make an appointment, call toll-free
800-923-7878 to speak with our Patient Care Team.
Recover your vitality, reclaim your energy, and rediscover your health.imm

How Does Germanium Treatment Function?

Cancer Financial Assistance FAQ

Deborah Weidenhamer — Tue, 16 Apr 2024 00:45:12 +0000

Sunridge Medical Cancer Financial Assistance FAQ

At Sunridge Medical, we understand that navigating the financial aspects of cancer treatment can be overwhelming. Our patients often have questions regarding the nuances of insurance coverage and other cancer financial assistance options. Below are answers to some frequently asked questions to help you understand your options when paying for treatment at Sunridge Medical. For additional questions you have, visit our general FAQ page if you are looking for information about financial assistance with non-cancer-related medical expenses, visit this page.

Q: Does Sunridge Medical Accept Health Insurance For Cancer Treatment?

A: Most private insurance companies, including Medicare and Medicaid, rarely cover Naturopathic Medical Treatments (NMT), such as those offered at Sunridge Medical. However, every insurance policy is different in coverage assistance for cancer patients, so we encourage you to check with your provider for the specifics on coverage.

Q: Will My Insurance Company Pay For Services at Sunridge Medical?

A: Insurance-based healthcare usually follows standard treatment protocols and doesn’t offer access to naturopathic oncology as the primary treatment option. At Sunridge Medical, we provide care to all patients with a holistic approach which is valuable as it incorporates the latest oncology research, potentially offering specific lifesaving alternatives for patients.

Our personalized oncology choices rely on in-depth research which is a component often absent in traditional oncology care but pivotal for understanding the disease better. By gaining more insight into each patient’s cancer and its underlying causes, we can craft comprehensive treatment strategies, including tailored immunotherapies, to support a patient’s journey toward recovery. Reactivating the immune system may be the missing link in conventional cancer treatments, which is why our combination therapies at Sunridge Medical aim to accurately target cancer cells and rejuvenate the immune system, possibly reducing common treatment side effects.

Q: Can I Use My Health Savings Account (HSA) Or Flexible Spending Account (FSA) For Payment?

A: Yes, payments for eligible treatment expenses can be made using your HSA or FSA, as these accounts are designed to cover out-of-pocket healthcare costs.

Q: What Is The Cost Of Care At Sunridge Medical?

Q: Are There Any Financial Assistance Programs Available At Sunridge Medical?

A: We are aware of the financial burden that can accompany cancer treatment, and while we do not directly provide financial assistance, our staff is knowledgeable of external resources and programs that patients can apply for. We’re committed to supporting patients in exploring these opportunities.

Q: Are Payment Plans Available For Treatment At Sunridge Medical?

Q: Can I Submit The Costs Of My Treatment At Sunridge Medical To My Insurance For Out-Of-Network Cancer Treatment Reimbursement?

Q: Who Can I Speak With At Sunridge Medical For More Personalized Financial Guidance?

For more detailed cancer financial assistance, please contact our office directly and a member of our team will be glad to help. We focus on your healing and reduce the stress of financial planning for your treatment.

Sunridge Medical is committed to providing exceptional care and seeks to ease the financial burden associated with cancer treatment. If you have any additional questions that were not covered in this FAQ, please call our patient care team at 1-800-923-7878.

Triple Negative Breast Cancer (TNBC) Treatment FAQ’s

Deborah Weidenhamer — Mon, 15 Apr 2024 17:17:44 +0000

Treatment for Triple Negative Breast Cancer

Is Triple Negative Breast Cancer Treatment Treatable?

Yes, Triple Negative Breast Cancer is indeed treatable. At Sunridge Medical, we are fully aware that this subtype can be more complex to manage due to its absence of estrogen and progesterone receptors, as well as the HER2 protein, which are common targets in other breast cancer treatments. Our treatment strategies for Triple Negative Breast Cancer generally encompass a combination approach including surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy. The outlook for each patient is unique and varies based on the stage at which the cancer is diagnosed and the response to the treatments administered.

What are Triple Negative Breast Cancer Treatments?

At Sunridge Medical, we personalize our treatment options for Triple Negative Breast Cancer based on the individual needs of each patient. The following are typical components of our treatment regimens:

Surgery: Removal of cancer through procedures like lumpectomy or mastectomy is often the first line of attack. We aim to eliminate the tumor and some of the surrounding tissue to ensure comprehensive removal.
Chemotherapy: This systemic treatment is critical and can be administered either before surgery (neoadjuvant therapy) to shrink the tumor, or after surgery (adjuvant therapy) to deal with any remaining cancer cells and minimize the chance of recurrence.
Radiation Therapy: Post-surgical radiation is frequently employed to target residual cancer cells in the breast, chest wall, or axillary lymph nodes. It can also be the primary treatment approach for certain cases where surgery isn’t an option.
Targeted Therapies and Immunotherapies: Although these treatments are relatively new and not universally applicable, we consider them when appropriate. For example, there are medications like PARP inhibitors that may benefit some patients with BRCA mutations.
Naturopathic Immunotherapy: For the treatment of cancer, immunotherapy refers to the treatment of the immune system in an attempt to stimulate the immune system so that it can effectively reject and destroy tumors. The immune system is a very complex system of cells flowing through the body that not only provides defense against foreign invaders but also must also be functioning at its best to protect against many disease states such as autoimmune diseases. Read more about Naturopathic Immunotherapy

Can Naturopathic Medicine Work for Triple Negative Breast Cancer?

Naturopathic medicine takes an integrative approach, combining natural therapeutics with modern science to provide personalized care. For women with TripleNegative Breast Cancer TNBC, this approach can offer adjunctive support in managing side effects of conventional treatments, boosting the immune system, and addressing overall health. Anyone diagnosed with TNBC needs to work closely with a healthcare team, including a naturopathic physician, to develop an individualized treatment plan.

At Sunridge Medical, we are committed to keeping abreast of these developments and incorporating the latest evidence-based treatments into our practice, always tailored to our patients’ unique situations. Regular collaborative meetings with our team ensure that our patients receive the most advanced and appropriate care for their condition.

Can I take hormone replacement therapy (HRT) after Triple Negative Breast Cancer (TNBC)?

No, hormone replacement therapy (HRT) is generally not advised for patients who have been treated for Triple Negative Breast Cancer (TNBC). TNBC lacks the receptors for estrogen, progesterone, and HER2, which often makes it unresponsive to hormonal therapies. Since HRT involves supplementing the body with estrogen and/or progesterone, there’s a concern that this could stimulate the growth of any residual cancer cells, increasing the risk of recurrence. It is crucial to discuss all treatment options, including the risks and benefits, with your oncologist or healthcare provider before considering HRT.

Can oxygen help with Triple Negative Breast Cancer?

Hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) is being explored as a supportive treatment for Triple Negative Breast Cancer. During HBOT, patients breathe pure oxygen in a pressurized environment, which saturates the blood and body tissues with oxygen. While the primary aim is to enhance wound healing and fight infection, research into its effects on cancer is ongoing, and some studies suggest it might enhance the efficacy of certain cancer therapies. However, HBOT is not a standalone treatment for TNBC, and more research is necessary to determine its potential role in managing this specific cancer type.

Can Triple Negative Breast Cancer be Treated with Immunotherapy?

Immunotherapy has become an exciting area of advancement in the treatment of certain cancers, including Triple Negative Breast Cancer. This approach harnesses the power of the body’s own immune system to identify and attack cancer cells. It’s not suitable for every TNBC patient but has shown promise in some cases, particularly when the cancer expresses certain proteins that make it more visible to the immune system. If you’re considering immunotherapy, call our Patient Care Team at Sunridge to discuss the potential benefits and whether it’s appropriate for your situation.

It’s always important to consult closely with your healthcare team before starting or stopping any treatment to ensure it aligns with your overall care plan. At Sunridge Medical, we provide personalized care and can help you understand all available treatment and supportive care options and welcome working with your cancer care team and other providers.

For answers and to make an appointment, call
toll-free 800-923-7878 to speak with our Patient Care Team.
Recover your vitality, reclaim your energy, and rediscover your health.