Lowell CHC Launches Autism Evaluation Clinic to Reduce Wait Times and Support Early Childhood Development

Lowell Community Health Center (Lowell CHC) is proud to announce the launch of its new Autism Evaluation Clinic, designed to help families receive faster answers and critical support during the earliest and most important years of their children’s development. The clinic is open to current Lowell CHC patients, and to new patients who start getting their child’s regular care at Lowell CHC before the autism evaluation begins.

The clinic will serve children between 18 months and 3 years old, a key window for identifying Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and beginning early therapies that can significantly improve long-term outcomes. Currently, families are often referred to specialized developmental clinics in the region, where wait times for evaluations can be as long as one to two years. According to the National Institutes of Health, the average delay between the first signs of autism and diagnosis is 2.2 years, a gap that can limit access to services proven to help.

“Delays in diagnosis can make an already difficult time even harder for families,” said Natalie Bowen, MD, Chief of Pediatrics at Lowell CHC. “We created this clinic to make sure families aren’t waiting years for answers. Early diagnosis opens the door to services that can make a meaningful difference. Our goal is to help families access care quickly and begin supportive therapies during the most formative years of their child’s life.”

Toys that teach. Cropped shot of a baby boy playing with wooden building blocks on the floor

Pediatric and Family Medicine providers at Lowell CHC will work with Early Intervention specialists to find children who may show signs of autism. If there are concerns, the child will be scheduled for a full evaluation. This includes three visits and uses trusted tools to help with the diagnosis.

The clinic will initially operate two Thursday afternoon sessions per month, with plans to expand based on need. Dedicated staff members will help coordinate care, support families through the process, and ensure follow-through with recommendations and referrals.

Parents and caregivers should talk to their child’s Lowell CHC Primary Care Provider if they have any concerns about their child’s development. Early signs of autism could include:

  • Delays in speech
  • Poor eye contact
  • Not responding to their name (despite normal hearing)
  • Repetitive behaviors like hand flapping
  • Use of scripted or repetitive language

For more information or to begin the evaluation process, existing patients—or new patients looking to establish care—should call our main number at 978-937-9700 or speak with their child’s Lowell CHC provider.

March 18, 2025

Healthy Eating, Healthy Living: Simple Steps for Better Nutrition

By Sidney Coffman, MS, RDN, LDN

March is National Nutrition Month, a time to focus on making informed food choices and developing healthier eating habits. Good nutrition isn’t about strict dieting or depriving yourself—it’s about eating well to feel your best and support long-term health. At Lowell Community Health Center, we work with patients every day to make small, sustainable changes that can have a big impact. Here are some of the most important steps you can take toward better health:

1. Make Half Your Plate Fruits and Vegetables
Fruits and vegetables are packed with vitamins, minerals, fiber, and antioxidants that support your immune system and overall health. They add color, flavor, and texture to meals while helping you feel full. Fresh, frozen, and canned options all count—just look for low-sodium or no-added-sugar varieties.

2. Start Your Day with a Nutritious Breakfast
Eating a healthy breakfast provides the energy your body needs to start the day. Quick and simple options like low-fat plain yogurt with fruit, a hard-boiled egg with whole wheat toast, or oatmeal topped with nuts can help keep you full and focused throughout the morning.

3. Drink More Water
Hydration is key to maintaining good health. Drinking water instead of sugary drinks helps reduce calorie intake and supports digestion, kidney function, and energy levels. If plain water isn’t appealing, try adding slices of lemon, cucumber, or berries for natural flavor. Aim for 64oz a day.

Closeup image of an asian woman holding and showing a fresh mixed fruits on skewers

4. Fix Healthy Snacks
Snacking isn’t a bad habit—it’s about making the right choices. Healthy snacks, like raw veggies with hummus, yogurt with fruit, or a handful of nuts, can keep energy levels steady and prevent overeating at mealtime. Choosing whole, nutrient-rich foods instead of processed snacks makes a big difference in overall well-being.

5. Follow Food Safety Guidelines
Preventing foodborne illness is essential, especially for people with weakened immune systems, children, and older adults. Always wash your hands before preparing food, keep raw and cooked foods separate, cook foods to the right temperatures, and refrigerate leftovers promptly. Here is a food temperature guide from the USDA: https://www.fsis.usda.gov/food-safety/safe-food-handling-and-preparation/food-safety-basics/safe-temperature-chart

6. Get Cooking
Cooking meals at home gives you control over ingredients and portion sizes while saving money. Simple skills like chopping vegetables, roasting chicken, or cooking beans from scratch can make home cooking enjoyable and nutritious. Even small steps—like swapping out fried foods for baked options—can lead to long-term health benefits.

7. Consult a Registered Dietitian
If you need guidance on eating well, managing a medical condition, or just want to feel better, working with a registered dietitian nutritionist (RDN) can help. At Lowell Community Health Center, I am available to meet with any patient looking for personalized nutrition advice. Your health journey is unique, and together, we can create a plan that works for you.

Taking control of your nutrition doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Small changes add up, and focusing on these simple habits can improve your health and well-being. If you’d like to learn more, speak with your Lowell Community Health Center Care Team about scheduling a visit with a registered dietitian. Your future self will thank you!

*This information is adapted from the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics (www.eatright.org).

February 21, 2025

Celebrate Heart Health Month with Us!

February is Heart Health Month, a time to focus on keeping our hearts strong and healthy. Heart disease is the leading cause of death for men and women in the United States, accounting for 1 in every 5 deaths. The good news is that there are steps you can take to protect your heart.

Understanding Heart Disease

Heart disease includes various conditions that affect the heart’s ability to function properly. The most common type is coronary artery disease, which can lead to heart attacks. In the United States, someone has a heart attack every 40 seconds.

How to Keep Your Heart Healthy

Here are some ways to take care of your heart:

  • Eat Healthy Foods: Enjoy plenty of fruits and vegetables. Choose whole grains like brown rice and oatmeal. Pick lean proteins such as chicken, fish, beans, and nuts. Try to limit foods high in salt, sugar, and unhealthy fats. If you’d like help eating healthier, ask your Care Team about seeing a nutritionist right here at Lowell Community Health Center.
  • Stay Active: Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity each week, such as walking, dancing, aerobics, or 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity activity, like running. Regular exercise helps keep your heart strong.
  • Don’t Smoke: Avoid smoking and stay away from secondhand smoke. Smoking can harm your heart and blood vessels. If you need help quitting, our Care Team can provide resources and support.
  • Manage Stress: Chronic stress may contribute to heart disease. Consider activities like meditation, deep breathing exercises, or yoga to help manage stress.
  • Monitor Your Blood Pressure: High blood pressure often has no symptoms but significantly increases the risk of heart disease and stroke. Regular monitoring can help you keep it under control.

High Blood Pressure and Heart Health

High blood pressure, or hypertension, is a major risk factor for heart disease. Nearly half of adults in the United States have hypertension, yet only about 1 in 4 have it under control.

Managing your blood pressure is crucial for heart health. Here are some tips:

  • Take Prescribed Medications: If your doctor prescribes medication for high blood pressure, take it as directed. Medication adherence is critical to successful blood pressure control.
  • Reduce Sodium Intake: Eating too much salt can raise blood pressure. Aim to consume less sodium by choosing fresh foods and reading nutrition labels to select low-sodium options.
  • Limit Alcohol Consumption: Drinking too much alcohol can increase blood pressure. Men should limit themselves to two drinks per day, and women to one drink per day.

If you have questions about managing your blood pressure, our Care Team at Lowell Community Health Center is here to help. We offer personalized plans and support to keep your heart healthy.

Talk to Your Care Team

Your health is a partnership. If you have any questions or concerns about your heart health, don’t hesitate to reach out to your Care Team at Lowell Community Health Center. We’re here to provide guidance, support, and resources tailored to your needs. Together, we can develop a plan to maintain or improve your heart health.

References:

Million Hearts®. Improving Medication Adherence Among Patients with Hypertension.https://millionhearts.hhs.gov/data-reports/factsheets/adherence.html

February 11, 2025

Lowell Community Health Center to Launch Community Care in Reach Mobile Health Unit to Bring Lifesaving Services Directly Lowell Residents

Lowell Community Health Center (Lowell CHC) is expanding its reach beyond clinic walls with the launch of the Community Care in Reach Mobile Health Unit, bringing essential health services directly to those who need them most. This initiative is made possible through the generosity of the Robert K. Kraft Family Foundation and in collaboration with The Kraft Center for Community Health at Mass General Brigham, reinforcing a shared commitment to addressing community health needs through innovative, on-the-ground solutions.

The Community Care in Reach Mobile Health Unit, which is expected to be operational by Spring 2025, will offer a variety of health services, including access to Narcan, condoms, test strips, HIV and Hepatitis C testing, and other safety supplies. The Community Care in Reach Mobile Health Unit will offer health education, help individuals connect to detox programs and community resources, and offer referrals for primary care, substance use treatment, and behavioral health services.  

The Kraft Center for Community Health has been instrumental in developing and expanding the Community Care in Reach® model, which increases access to essential health services and clinical care community settings outside of the traditional hospital setting.

“The Care in Reach Mobile Health Unit represents an important step in our mission to make healthcare more accessible to everyone in our community,” said Susan West Levine, CEO of Lowell CHC. “By bringing essential services directly to individuals who face barriers to care, particularly those living with substance use disorder, we are not only addressing immediate health needs but also building connections to long-term support and treatment.”

“At Mass General Brigham, we believe that healthcare should never be out of reach,” said Elsie Taveras, MD, MPH, Chief Community Health and Health Equity Officer at Mass General Brigham and Executive Director of the Kraft Center for Community Health. “This innovative approach breaks down the barriers that too often prevent people from accessing life-saving treatment. By meeting people where they live and work, we’re not only improving health outcomes but also empowering individuals to take control of their wellbeing.

The Community Care in Reach Mobile Health Unit’s operational funding is provided by the MA Department of Public Health – Bureau of Substance Addiction Services, to provide substance use disorder services to more people in more locations.

The Community Care in Reach Mobile Health Unit will be deployed throughout Greater Lowell, bringing essential health services directly to individuals and connecting them to the care and resources they need.

About Lowell Community Health Center

Founded in 1970, Lowell Community Health Center is the healthcare home of choice for more than 38,000 individuals in Greater Lowell. At the heart of our mission lies a strong commitment to offering comprehensive and accessible healthcare services, ensuring that every patient receives the care they need, regardless of financial status.

About The Kraft Center for Community Health The Kraft Center for Community Health at Mass General Brigham was established with the mission to expand access to high-quality, cost-effective healthcare for medically underserved patients and communities. Founded in 2011 through a generous donation by Robert Kraft, the Center aims to catalyze innovative solutions to real world community health problems, execute solutions locally, and make them scalable and ready to spread nationally to improve health outcomes for disadvantaged populations nationally. The Kraft Center is an innovation leader across the Mass General Brigham system, specializing in programmatic design and implementation to improve community health. For more information, please visit kraftcommunityhealth.org.

January 17, 2025

Health Connector Open Enrollment Deadline: January 23, 2025

The deadline to enroll in or change your health insurance plan through the Massachusetts Health Connector is Thursday, January 23, 2025. Apply now to make sure your plan starts on February 1, 2025.

Lowell Community Health Center’s Health Insurance Navigators are here to help! Call us at 978.937.9700 or visit us at 161 Jackson Street, Lowell, MA for assistance with your health insurance needs.

Visit the Health Connector’s renewal page to learn more and get started.

Extended Call Center Hours for Support

To help during the final days of Open Enrollment, the Health Connector’s Customer Service Call Center will have extended hours:

  • Tuesday, January 21, 2025: 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.
  • Wednesday, January 22, 2025: 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.
  • Thursday, January 23, 2025: 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.

Note: These extended hours are for the call center only. Walk-in centers will be open during normal business hours. For more information, visit the Health Connector Contact page.

What Happens After January 23?

If you miss the deadline, you can only sign up for health insurance if you qualify for a Special Enrollment Period (SEP). This happens if you’ve had a big life event like losing your current insurance, having a baby, or moving.

You’ll have 60 days after the event to enroll in a new plan. Learn more about SEP rules on the Health Connector’s Special Enrollment Period page.

Don’t wait! Call us at 978.937.9700 or visit today for help. Let’s make sure you have the health coverage you need.

January 7, 2025

Staying Healthy: What You Should Know About Norovirus

Recently, Norovirus cases have gone up a lot. Here’s some important information, shared from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), to help you and your family stay safe.

What is Norovirus?

Norovirus is a highly contagious germ that can make you sick. It spreads through:

  • Eating or drinking contaminated food or water
  • Touching contaminated surfaces and then putting your hands in your mouth
  • Close contact with someone who is sick, like caring for them or sharing food

Norovirus can cause:

  • Diarrhea
  • Throwing up
  • Feeling sick to your stomach
  • Stomach pain

Some people may also have a fever, headaches, or body aches. These symptoms usually start 12 to 48 hours after contact and last 1 to 3 days. Dehydration, especially in young children and older adults, can sometimes be a problem if you lose too much water from vomiting or diarrhea.

Learn more at the CDC’s Norovirus page.

How to Stay Safe from Norovirus

There are steps you can take to protect yourself and others:

  • Wash your hands often: Use soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially before eating, after using the bathroom, and before preparing food. Hand sanitizer is less effective against Norovirus.
  • Handle food safely: Wash fruits and vegetables before eating, and cook shellfish like oysters thoroughly.
  • Clean and disinfect surfaces: If someone gets sick, clean up immediately using a bleach-based cleaner. Be sure to wash laundry that may be soiled with vomit or stool right away using hot water and detergent.
  • Stay home when sick: If you or your child are sick, avoid going to work, school, or public places until at least two days after symptoms stop to prevent spreading Norovirus to others.

More prevention tips are available at the CDC’s Prevention page.

We’re Here to Help

If you’re not feeling well, visit our Patient Walk-In Center – no appointment needed:

  • Monday-Thursday: 8 AM – 7 PM
  • Friday: 8 AM – 4 PM
  • Saturday: 9 AM – 1 PM

Need help or more info?

  • Use MyChart: Message your Care Team.
  • Call Us: 978.937.9700
  • Visit Online: lchealth.org.

Let’s work together to protect our health and community this winter.

Information in this post is based on materials provided by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). For more details, visit cdc.gov.

December 19, 2024

Health Center Expanding Hours to Better Serve Patients

Lowell Community Health Center (Lowell CHC), the healthcare home of choice for more than 38,000 patients from across Greater Lowell, is pleased to announce expanded hours in its Primary Care Departments beginning January 6, 2025. This change reflects our ongoing commitment to meeting the needs of our patients by providing greater flexibility and convenience in accessing care.

Starting January 6, all Primary Care Departments will be open (by appointment):

  • Monday through Thursday: 8:00 AM – 8:00 PM
  • Friday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM

These expanded hours will allow patients to access primary care services later in the evening, accommodating busy schedules and ensuring more opportunities for care.

The following hours remain unchanged:

  • Lowell CHC Pharmacy:
    Monday–Thursday: 8:00 AM – 8:00 PM
    Friday: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM
    Saturday: 9:00 AM – 1:00 PM
  • Patient Walk-In Center:
    Monday–Thursday: 8:00 AM – 7:00 PM
    Friday: 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM
    Saturday: 9:00 AM – 1:00 PM

The health center remains closed on Sundays.

Lowell CHC offers a wide range of services, including:

  • Primary Care for adults, children, and families
  • Behavioral health and substance use services
  • Vision and dental care
  • School-Based Health Centers
  • Specialty care services, including HIV/AIDS care
  • Health insurance enrollment assistance

For more information about our services or to become a patient, please visit lchealth.org or call 978-937-9700. Lowell Community Health Center welcomes all patients, regardless of their ability to pay.

November 21, 2024

Stay Healthy This Winter with Our Tips and Services

With winter approaching, we want to help you stay healthy. Here are tips and resources to keep you and your family well.

Common Winter Illnesses

Common winter illnesses include flu, RSV, COVID-19, and other respiratory viruses. Protect yourself by staying up to date with vaccinations and practicing good hygiene.

How to Stay Healthy

  • Get Vaccinated:
    • Vaccine Clinic on November 23 from 9-1: Join our walk-in flu and COVID-19 vaccine clinic. No appointment needed. Details are on our website.
    • RSV Vaccine: Ask your Provider if you’re eligible.
    • Contact Your Care Team via MyChart: Ask about vaccines or other questions.
  • Visit Our Walk-In Center:
    • If you’re feeling unwell, come to our Walk-In Center.
    • Practice Good Hygiene:
    • Wash your hands often.
    • Avoid touching your face.
    • Cover coughs and sneezes.
    • Stay home if sick.
  • Keep Your Immune System Strong:
    • Eat healthy foods.
    • Stay active.
    • Get enough sleep.

Why Vaccines Matter

Vaccines protect you and others from illness. They are safe and essential for staying healthy.

We’re Here to Help

If you have questions or need more information:

  • Use the MyChart App: Message your Care Team.
  • Call Us: 978.937.9700.
June 17, 2024

Stay Safe During the Heat Wave

With the upcoming heat wave, it’s important to take extra precautions to stay safe and healthy. High temperatures can be dangerous, especially for young children, older adults, and those with health conditions. Here are some essential safety tips to help you and your loved ones stay cool and safe during this hot weather.

Heat Safety Tips:

  • Wear appropriate clothing: Choose lightweight, loose-fitting clothing to help your body stay cool.
  • Stay cool indoors:
    • Spend as much time as possible in air-conditioned places.
    • If your home doesn’t have air conditioning, visit a shopping mall or public library for a few hours.
    • Call your local health department or city/town hall to find heat-relief shelters in your area.
    • Avoid using your stove and oven to maintain a cooler temperature inside your home.
    • Take cool showers or baths to lower your body temperature.
  • Do not leave kids or anyone else in cars:
    • Cars can heat up quickly to dangerous levels, even with the windows cracked open.
    • Never leave infants, children, or pets in a parked car.
    • To remind yourself that a child is in the car, keep a stuffed animal in the car seat. When the child is buckled in, place the stuffed animal in the front with the driver.
    • Always check to ensure everyone is out of the car before locking it, especially sleeping children.
  • Schedule outdoor activities carefully:
    • Try to limit outdoor activities to cooler times, like early morning or evening.
    • Rest often in shady areas to give your body a chance to cool down.
  • Pace yourself:
    • Reduce exercise during the hottest parts of the day.
    • If you’re not used to the heat, start slowly and increase your activity level gradually.
    • Stop all activity if exertion in the heat makes your heart pound or leaves you gasping for breath. Move to a cool area and rest if you feel lightheaded, confused, weak, or faint.
  • Wear sunscreen:
    • Sunburn affects your body’s ability to cool down and can cause dehydration.
    • Wear a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and apply sunscreen with SPF 15 or higher 30 minutes before going outside.
    • Reapply sunscreen according to the package directions.
  • Avoid hot and heavy meals: These add heat to your body.
  • Drink plenty of fluids:
    • Drink more fluids than usual, regardless of your activity level.
    • Avoid very sugary or alcoholic drinks, as they can cause you to lose more body fluid.
    • Avoid very cold drinks, as they can cause stomach cramps.
  • Replace salts and minerals: Heavy sweating removes salt and minerals from your body. A sports drink can help replace them.
  • Keep pets hydrated: Ensure your pets have plenty of fresh water in a shady area.
  • Check for updates: Stay informed by checking local news for extreme heat alerts and safety tips.
  • Use a buddy system: Monitor the condition of those around you and have someone check on you.
    • If you are 65 years or older, have a friend or relative check on you twice a day.
    • Check on high-risk individuals, including infants, young children, older adults, and those with health issues.

Signs of Heat-Related Illness:

  • Heat exhaustion:
    • Heavy sweating
    • Weakness
    • Cold, pale, and clammy skin
    • Fast, weak pulse
    • Nausea or vomiting
    • Feeling faint
  • Heat stroke:
    • High body temperature (103°F or higher)
    • Hot, red, dry, or damp skin
    • Fast, strong pulse
    • Confusion
    • Losing consciousness

What to Do If You See Signs of Heat-Related Illness:

  • Heat exhaustion:
    • Move to a cooler location.
    • Lie down and loosen your clothing.
    • Apply cool, wet cloths to your body or take a cool bath.
    • Sip water.
    • Seek medical attention if you vomit, or if symptoms worsen or last longer than an hour.
  • Heat stroke:
    • Call 911 immediately—heat stroke is a medical emergency.
    • Move the person to a cooler environment.
    • Reduce the person’s body temperature with cool cloths or a cool bath.
    • Do not give the person anything to drink.

Remember to check with your local town or city hall to find out where cooling stations are located. Stay safe and keep cool during the heat wave!

For more information visit – CDC Extreme Heat Prevention

September 26, 2023

Dr. Alison Curcio Appointed as Chief of Patient Walk-In Center at Lowell Community Health Center

Lowell Community Health Center is delighted to announce the appointment of Dr. Alison Curcio as the new Chief of the Patient Walk-In Center. Dr. Curcio brings with her 18 years of frontline emergency medicine experience and specialized training in Simulation Medicine aimed at enhancing patient safety and care quality. She has also previously contributed to the Pharmacy and Therapeutics Committee, developing protocols for optimized medication use in Emergency Departments.

Dr. Curcio received her undergraduate degree from the University of Massachusetts, Amherst, completed her medical education at Emory University School of Medicine, and subsequently pursued a residency in Emergency Medicine through the Harvard program at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center in Boston.

Susan West Levine, CEO of Lowell Community Health Center, praised the appointment, stating, “We are exceptionally fortunate to have Dr. Curcio join our team. With her years of frontline emergency medicine experience and specialized training in Simulation Medicine, she brings significant expertise to our health center. Dr. Curcio will be instrumental in developing a service model that better guides patients to the most appropriate care settings, thereby reducing unnecessary emergency room visits. Her leadership will be key to expanding our Walk-In Center’s services to better meet the healthcare needs of our community.”

Dr. Alison Curcio expressed her enthusiasm, saying, “I am excited to work with such an incredible team at the Patient Walk-In Center, and at the health center, and to be able to continue and expand upon the tremendous services provided by the walk-in center.”

Dr. Kumble Rajesh, Chief Medical Officer of Lowell Community Health Center, highlighted the significance of her expertise, noting, “Dr. Curcio’s vast experience in emergency medicine will be invaluable in optimizing and expanding our services at the Patient Walk-In Center and to the patients we serve.”

About the Patient Walk-In Center

The Patient Walk-In Center offers a range of Immediate Care walk-in services for Lowell Community Health Center patients. Services include, but are not limited to, sick visits, joint injuries, stitches, assistance with sprains and back pain, treatment of skin infections such as poison ivy, non-severe allergy management, ear lavage, and on-the-spot testing for conditions like COVID-19, pregnancy, urinary infections, vaginal infections, sore throats, and flu.

Click Here – To learn about the Patient Walk-In Center and its hours.