El Paso Health | About Your Health | Summer 2021

W omen may not realize they pass on protective antibodies to their babies, protecting them early in life. That protection improves significantly when women get certain vaccines—which can stop the spread of certain illnesses—before, during, and after pregnancy. Women planning to get pregnant should talk to their physician about their vaccination history. For example, many women still may need the vaccine against measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR). Those 3 can become serious illnesses, especially rubella, which can cause birth defects. Also recommended: the vaccine for hepatitis B, an annual flu shot when available, and the Tdap (whooping cough) vaccine in the third trimester to protect babies after birth (their family members need the vaccination too). These vaccinations are available for El Paso Health STAR and CHIP Perinate members through their prenatal care Provider (OB-GYN). Providers who do not carry the vaccine in their office may refer members to: Proaction Inc. (Immunize El Paso) 6292 Trowbridge Drive El Paso, TX 79905 915-533-3414 Pregnant women should get their vaccines, because the illnesses can harm the women and may cause birth defects. CHANGE SERVICE REQUESTED PO Box 971100 El Paso, TX 79997-1100 Nonprofit Org. U.S. Postage PAID Walla Walla, WA Permit No. 44 Provider Newsletter Summer • 2021 Provider spotlight WELCOME! El Paso Health would like to welcome our newest pediatrician, Jason J. Wang, MD. Dr. Wang is a board-cer tified pediatrician who graduated from Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center School of Medicine at El Paso. Dr. Wang completed his residency program at University of Nevada, Las Vegas. After his training, Dr. Wang joined East Community Hospital, where he attended 300 deliveries in 1 year. Dr. Wang is looking forward to providing outstanding care to our members and community. Here at El Paso Health, we look forward to our partnership and working together. Welcome to the El Paso Health family! From the Desk of David Palafox, MD, DABFM, El Paso Health Medical Director An ounce of prevention PROTECTING PREGNANT MOMS AND THEIR BABIES —Continued on page 4