‘Tis the season to stay healthy—stop the flu before it stops you!

We’ve started seeing flu cases in our office, but it’s not too late to protect your family. Getting your flu vaccine is the best way to stay healthy this season, and we’re here to help! To make it even easier, we’ve added new flu clinic dates at both of our locations.

Anderson Flu Clinics

• 12/20: 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM
• 12/27: 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM
• 1/3: 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM

• 12/20: 10:00 AM – 3:00 PM
• 1/3: 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM

Seamlessly Secure Your Flu Shot

Take advantage of our user-friendly web scheduling links for our Anderson and Amelia locations. Parents and family members should choose “New Patient” when scheduling appointments. Alternatively, you can request a flu shot during your child’s upcoming check-up without requiring a separate appointment. If you encounter any difficulty finding an appointment slot, please don’t hesitate to contact us at (513) 232-8100, and we’ll gladly explore additional options tailored to your family’s schedule.

How to Dress

As you arrive, please ensure all children over the age of three (3) dress so that one arm is quickly freed of clothing for us to give the vaccine. The best option is a sleeveless or loose short-sleeved shirt. For children under the age of 3 or for those that do not have adequate muscle mass in the arm, the flu vaccine will be administered in your child’s thigh. In this case, we ask that shorts or diapers be worn so we may give the vaccine easily.

Observation

While rare, fainting or feeling lightheaded can occur after vaccination. This is more common among adolescents and young adults. For this reason, children over 11 will be observed for 15 min. If you choose to forgo the observation period, we will ask you to complete a waiver.

Flu 101

Looking to learn more about the flu in children? Check out our blog, Flu 101: What You Need to Know.

Thank you for trusting us with your child’s care!

Snow is here! We love that this time of year often leads to building snowmen, sledding, and other fun-filled outdoor activities.

Since inclement weather may occur soon, we wanted to share information on how our offices handle these conditions.

• Communication: We will contact you if we need to cancel your visit due to weather. You may receive notice from us by phone call, text, or email, depending upon the time of day and the number of appointments needing to be canceled. Rest assured, a team member will communicate with you to find an alternative time to visit your pediatrician safely. It is safe to assume we are open if you do not hear from us.
• Social Media Updates:  We will post on our social media sites as soon as we decide to cancel appointments. Please follow our Facebook or Instagram accounts for this and additional health-related information.
• Telemedicine Alternatives: If you are scheduled for select appointments such as behavioral health visits, medication follow-ups, and simple ill appointments, we may offer a virtual visit as an alternative form of care from the comfort of your home. Unfortunately, visits that require a physical exam or testing are not always appropriate for telemedicine.
• Patient Cancellations: Should you have issues traveling to your visit due to inclement weather, we offer the option to cancel at no charge.

Excellent Links for Winter Tips and Fun:

• Playing Outside in Winter: Tips to Keep Kids Warm & Safe
• Winter Car Seat Safety Tips: Keeping Kids Safe & Warm
• Avoiding Dry Winter Skin in Babies and Toddlers

We want to thank you for your valuable feedback regarding the cost of our testing, and we’ve been listening! In preparation for the upcoming ill season, we’re excited to announce changes that will enhance the care we provide while keeping costs reasonable.

We have transitioned from single-component testing for flu, COVID-19, strep, and RSV to a new all-in-one testing platform. By identifying which virus or bacteria is causing an illness, we can often provide more focused care, minimizing the use of unnecessary medications and improving treatment outcomes. In most cases, you’ll continue to receive test results before leaving the office.

About the Testing Options:

• Expanded Panel: This panel tests for up to 15 viruses and bacteria, including flu, COVID-19, and RSV, but also other potential causes of illness such as adenovirus, parainfluenza, mycoplasma pneumonia, and metapneumovirus. This broader panel is beneficial when symptoms are more severe or atypical, helping us pinpoint the exact cause of illness for more complex cases.
• Mini Panel: This panel tests for 5 common viruses and bacteria, including flu, COVID-19, and RSV. It’s ideal for situations where the illness is likely caused by one of these common pathogens.

Affordable Options for Out-of-Pocket Costs:

We understand the importance of receiving high-quality care without breaking the bank. With our new all-in-one testing platform, the cost is more economical than testing for individual illnesses when assessing multiple conditions. Ultimately, the cost for these tests is negotiated by your insurance provider. If you have any questions or would like to discuss cost estimates, please don’t hesitate to reach out to our billing team at (513) 232-8100 option 5.

At Anderson Hills Pediatrics, your family’s health and well-being are our top priorities. We’re committed to providing the best possible care while working with you to keep costs reasonable.Thank you for trusting us with your family’s care.

As we enter RSV season, protecting your infant from serious lung disease is very important.  Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is one of the leading causes of bronchiolitis, a lower respiratory tract infection, that can lead to complications such as respiratory distress and pneumonia. Fortunately, Beyfortus (Nirsevimab) offers a promising way to protect infants from the most severe effects of RSV.

What is Beyfortus?

Beyfortus is an antibody injection that provides targeted protection against serious lung disease caused by RSV. Clinical studies show that this preventive treatment can reduce the risk of severe RSV infections, leading to hospitalization, by as much as 75% in young infants. With just one dose, infants are protected for up to six months—covering the length of a typical RSV season.

Who is eligible for Beyfortus?

Infants up to 7 months of age are eligible for Beyfortus during RSV season if their mother did not receive the RSV vaccine during pregnancy.
Older children (8 to 24 months) at higher risk, such as those with chronic lung disease, severe immunocompromise, cystic fibrosis, or certain ethnic backgrounds (such as American Indian or Alaska Native), may also be eligible with guidance from your pediatrician.

Does my baby need Beyfortus if I received the RSV vaccine during pregnancy?

If you received the RSV vaccine (Abrysvo) during pregnancy, your baby may not need Beyfortus.   The vaccine works by producing antibodies in mom, which are then passed to the infant, providing sufficient protection.

How to Schedule Beyfortus for Your Infant

Scheduling your baby’s Beyfortus injection is simple.

• If your baby is under 8 months old and has not received the vaccine before, they can be scheduled for a nurse visit through their patient portal, our website, or by calling (513) 232-8100.
• For older infants (8 to 24 months) who may be at high risk, call our triage team at (513) 232-8100 to confirm eligibility.

Will Insurance Cover Beyfortus?

Most health insurances will cover Beyfortus as an in-network service, but it’s always a good idea to verify your specific coverage. Parents can provide insurance companies with CPT codes 90380 or 90381 depending on their baby’s weight, and the injection code CPT 96372.

Protecting your baby this RSV season is easier than ever with the powerful prevention offered by Beyfortus. Speak to your pediatrician or our nurse triage team to learn more and schedule your baby’s injection.

Dear Families,

I hope everyone had a wonderful summer filled with fun and relaxation.  As we transition into autumn, I want to emphasize the importance of scheduling your child’s annual check-up with their primary care provider here at Anderson Hills Pediatrics. Now that the summer rush is behind us, it’s the perfect time to prioritize your child’s health before the busy holiday season arrives. Did you know your child’s annual check-up is much more than a routine visit?  These appointments allow us to monitor your child’s growth and development, assess their overall health, and address any concerns you may have. We take a comprehensive approach, including screenings for physical, behavioral, and mental health concerns, while also providing the necessary immunizations and referrals to keep your child healthy all year long.

In fact, we conveniently offer important fall vaccines- the flu shot, COVID-19 vaccine, and Beyfortus to help prevent RSV in infants—all during your child’s check-up.  This is a simple way to keep your family protected from seasonal illnesses. If your child is already up-to-date on their check-up, we still encourage our seasonal vaccines. Your health insurance covers check-ups and seasonal vaccines, rarely requiring any out-of-pocket expense.

At Anderson Hills Pediatrics, we believe in providing quality preventive care that builds healthy habits for your child’s future health.

Warm regards,
Dr. Jaime Grubert

Our flu vaccines will be available for patients starting on Monday, August 26, 2024. At Anderson Hills Pediatrics, we strongly recommend that all children aged six months and older get this year’s flu vaccine. We’re also offering flu vaccines to parents and loved ones, so the whole family can get their flu shot together.

Join us for this year’s flu clinics on the following dates:

• Saturdays at Anderson: 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM (September 21, 28, October 5, 12, 19, 26)
• Mondays at Anderson: 1:00 PM – 4:00 PM (October 14, November 4)
• Tuesday at Amelia: 1:00 PM – 4:00 PM (November 5)
• Wednesdays at Anderson: 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM (September 18 – November 20)
• Thursdays at Amelia: 1:00 PM – 4:00 PM (September 19 – November 21)
• Friday at Amelia: 1:00 PM – 4:00 PM (October 11)

Seamlessly Secure Your Flu Shot

Take advantage of our user-friendly web scheduling links for our Anderson and Amelia locations. Parents and family members should choose “New Patient” when scheduling appointments. Alternatively, you can request a flu shot during your child’s upcoming check-up without requiring a separate appointment. If you encounter any difficulty finding an appointment slot, please don’t hesitate to contact us at (513) 232-8100, and we’ll gladly explore additional options tailored to your family’s schedule.

Flu Clinic Additional Information

Back by popular demand, we aim to keep your family in the vehicle throughout the visit.

Where to go

We will have Flu Clinic signage in our parking lot to notify and guide you through the visit. We will have designated areas for check-in and vaccine administration. Weather permitting, this year’s clinics will be from the comfort of your vehicle (please no pets in your vehicle). Inclement or colder weather may necessitate bringing your child inside our facilities for their vaccine.

How to Dress

As you arrive, please ensure all children over the age of three (3) dress so that one arm is quickly freed of clothing for us to give the vaccine. The best option is a sleeveless or loose short-sleeved shirt. For children under the age of 3 or for those that do not have adequate muscle mass in the arm, the flu vaccine will be administered in your child’s thigh. In this case, we ask that shorts or diapers be worn so we may give the vaccine easily.

Observation

While rare, fainting or feeling lightheaded can occur after vaccination. This is more common among adolescents and young adults. For this reason, children over 11 will be observed for 15 min. If you choose to forgo the observation period, we will ask you to complete a waiver.

Flu 101

Looking to learn more about the flu in children? Check out our blog, Flu 101: What You Need to Know.

Thank you for trusting us with your child’s care!

At Anderson Hills Pediatrics, we strongly recommend that all children aged six months and older get this year’s flu vaccine.

Why does my child need to get a flu shot?

Flu shots reduce the risk of getting the flu. Some children vaccinated against the flu may still get sick, but their risk of serious complications, such as pneumonia or hospitalization, is greatly reduced. If your child is younger than five years or has certain chronic conditions, they are at an even higher risk of severe complications from the flu.

My child got a flu shot last year. Do they need one this year?

Flu viruses change, so the vaccine is updated to keep up with the viruses that are most common during the upcoming flu season. Even if your child received a flu vaccine last year, their immune protection decreases. Getting a flu shot every year provides the best protection.

Isn’t the flu the same thing as a cold?

Colds are usually milder than flu. People with colds are more likely to have a runny or stuffy nose. Colds generally do not result in serious health problems. The flu, however, can cause serious health problems like pneumonia, inflammation of the heart, brain, or muscles, and sepsis requiring hospitalizations. In rare cases, the flu can lead to death.

Can’t you get the flu from the flu shot?

No, the flu vaccine cannot give your child the flu. A flu vaccine may cause side effects that feel like the flu but are mild and short-lasting. These are signs that their immune system is working and building protection against the flu.

Ready to schedule your child’s flu vaccine?

We’re offering flu vaccines to parents and loved ones, so the whole family can get their flu shot together. Take advantage of our user-friendly web scheduling links for our Anderson and Amelia locations. Parents and family members should choose “New Patient” when scheduling appointments. Alternatively, you can request a flu shot during your child’s upcoming check-up without requiring a separate appointment. If you encounter any difficulty finding an appointment slot, please don’t hesitate to contact us at (513) 232-8100, and we’ll gladly explore additional options tailored to your family’s schedule.

To my patients and families of Anderson Hills Pediatrics,

With my sincerest gratitude to the families, staff, and fellow physicians at Anderson Hills Pediatrics, I would like to announce my retirement from the practice of medicine on November 28, 2024.

I feel very blessed and honored to have been a part of your lives for the last twenty-six years.   It has been a pleasure to see your children grow and thrive.  Thank you for letting me share the ups and downs with you. I will continue to pray for your health and happiness.  I’m looking forward to spending time with my husband and extended family, traveling, crafting, and exploring new opportunities.

We will be in contact with you in the coming months to share with you more information on transitioning care to one of our other exceptional physicians.   In the hopes that I might be able to see you once more I made accommodations to my schedule, increasing my availability in the coming months.  If you have any immediate questions, please contact medical Records at 513-232-8100 option 6.

Please let me know if there is anything I can do for you and your family over the next five months.  I look forward seeing you around town and wish you all the best.

Sincerely yours,
Dr. Meri Schrader

As the temperatures rise and school breaks begin, summer presents an exciting opportunity for children to explore, play, and create memories. However, it also brings a unique set of safety challenges. In celebration of National Safety Month, here are five essential tips to help ensure your children stay safe while enjoying their summer adventures.

Stay Sun Safe

One of the biggest concerns during summer is the intense sun. To keep your kids safe from harmful UV rays:

• Apply Sunscreen: Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30. Apply it generously 15 minutes before going outside and reapply every two hours, or more often if swimming or sweating. You’ll want to choose a “broad-spectrum” sunscreen with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide.
• Wear Protective Clothing: Encourage your child to wear hats, sunglasses, and lightweight, long-sleeved shirts and pants when possible.
• Seek Shade: Make sure your child takes breaks in the shade, especially during peak sun hours from 10 AM to 4 PM.

Water Safety First

Whether it’s a pool, lake, or beach, water activities are a summer staple. To ensure safety around water:

• Supervise Constantly: Always watch your children when they are in or near water. Avoid distractions such as phones or books.
• Learn to Swim: Enroll your child in swimming lessons appropriate for their age and skill level.
• Use Life Jackets: Ensure your child wears a U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jacket when boating or participating in water sports.

Stay Hydrated

Heat and outdoor activities increase the risk of dehydration. Keep your kids well-hydrated by:

• Encouraging Regular Water Breaks: Make sure your child drinks water frequently, even if they don’t feel thirsty.
• Avoiding Sugary Drinks: Limit beverages like soda and juice that can contribute to dehydration. Opt for water or hydrating snacks like fruits.

Play It Safe Outdoors

Summer means more time spent outside playing sports, riding bikes, and exploring. Keep these tips in mind:

• Wear Helmets and Protective Gear: Ensure your child wears a helmet when biking, skateboarding, or rollerblading, and other appropriate gear for different activities.
• Choose Safe Play Areas: Select parks and playgrounds with well-maintained equipment and soft ground surfaces like mulch or sand.
• Teach Road Safety: Remind your child to look both ways before crossing the street and to follow traffic signals and pedestrian signs.

Bug Off!

Summer brings an increase in insects like mosquitoes and ticks, which can carry diseases. Protect your child by:

• Using Insect Repellent: Apply insect repellent containing DEET, picaridin, or oil of lemon eucalyptus to exposed skin and clothing.
• Wearing Appropriate Clothing: Dress your child in long sleeves and pants when in wooded or grassy areas.
• Checking for Ticks: After outdoor activities, thoroughly check your child’s body and clothing for ticks and promptly remove any found.

Taking these precautions can help ensure your child has a fun and safe summer. Let’s make this National Safety Month a time to prioritize safety and create lasting, positive memories for our children. Happy summer!

For more tips and updates on child safety and health, follow Anderson Hills Pediatrics on Facebook and Instagram. Stay safe and enjoy the season!

Summer is here, and that means more time at pools, lakes, and the beach. While water activities are fun and refreshing, they can also pose serious risks, especially for children. At Anderson Hills Pediatrics, we want to ensure that your family enjoys a safe and worry-free summer. Here are six essential water safety tips to keep in mind:

1. Designate a Water Watcher
   Never assume that someone else is watching your child around water. Always designate a responsible adult as the water watcher. This person should be solely focused on monitoring the children and not distracted by activities like reading, using a phone, or socializing. The water watcher should change every 15 minutes to ensure that attention remains sharp and fresh.
2. Wear Life Jackets
   Life jackets are a must for children who are not strong swimmers, especially when boating or playing in natural bodies of water like lakes and rivers. Ensure that the life jacket is appropriately sized and approved by the U.S. Coast Guard. Life jackets provide buoyancy and help keep children afloat, reducing the risk of drowning. Remember, water wings and inflatable toys are not substitutes for life jackets. For more information, check out this brochure from the US Coast Guard on How to Choose the Right Life Jacket.
3. Teach Your Children to Swim
   Swimming is not only a fun activity but also a vital life skill. Enroll your children in swimming lessons as early as possible. Look for classes that are age-appropriate and taught by certified instructors. Children who know how to swim are less likely to panic in the water and are better equipped to handle themselves in an emergency. Remember, even strong swimmers need supervision, so always keep an eye on your kids when they are in or near water.
4. Learn CPR
   In an emergency, knowing CPR can save a life. CPR, or cardiopulmonary resuscitation, is a critical skill that can keep blood and oxygen flowing to the brain and other vital organs until professional help arrives. As a parent, taking a CPR class gives you the confidence and ability to act quickly in an emergency. Many local organizations, such as the Red Cross or American Heart Association offer CPR courses. Make sure to refresh your skills regularly to stay prepared.
5. Install Water Barriers
   If you have a pool at home, installing barriers such as fences, gates, and alarms is crucial. Pool fences should be at least four feet high and have a self-closing, self-latching gate. Alarms on doors and windows that lead to the pool area can provide an extra layer of protection. These barriers help prevent unsupervised access to the pool and give you peace of mind knowing your children are safe.
6. Use Drain Covers
   Pool and spa drains can pose a significant danger if they are not covered correctly. Powerful suction from drains can trap children and even adults underwater. Ensure that all pool and spa drains have compliant, properly fitting covers. Educate your children about the dangers of playing near drains and encourage them to stay away from these areas.

By following these water safety tips, you can help ensure that your children stay safe while enjoying their time in and around water. At Anderson Hills Pediatrics, we care about your family’s well-being and are here to support you with any questions or concerns about water safety. Have a safe and fun summer!