Halloween is the season of spooks, but there should be no frights in your bites! ExperCARE introduces “Safe Sweets”, our exclusive October initiative, ensuring your Halloween goodies are free from unwanted surprises. ExperBEAR knows that while treats should be delightful, they should also be safe. From the 1st to the 31st visit any ExperCARE location to have your candy X-rayed for any trace of foreign metal. It’s fast, efficient, and absolutely free. It’s not just about candy; it’s about peace of mind. Because at ExperCARE, your safety is our treat! Remember, this Halloween, bear the responsibility of ensuring every bite is just right!

 

SIX CONVENIENT LOCATIONS

Richmond Hill

Savannah Mall Blvd.

Downtown Savannah

Pooler

Statesboro

Hinesville

As Flu season approaches, remember ExperCARE is here for you! ExperCARE is sharing 5 ExperTIPS to help you stay healthy this Flu season. We provide compassionate care for all ages. Walk-in to one of our convenient Georgia locations today, or schedule an appointment at your convenience here.

Influenza (Flu) season is during the fall and winter, with peak levels from December through February. Here are five ExperTIPS to help limit your risk of catching the Flu:

  1. Know flu symptoms. It is important to know Flu symptoms so you can distance yourself from individuals who are exhibiting them. Common symptoms include fever or chills, coughing, sneezing, runny or stuffy nose, sore throat, muscle or body aches, headaches, and fatigue. See the complete list of symptoms on the CDC
  2. Know how the flu spreads. The flu spreads person-to-person by droplets made when people who have the flu cough, sneeze, and talk. These droplets are inhaled or land in the nose and mouth of people who are in close proximity to the sick individual.
  3. Limit touching your face. You can also catch the flu by touching an object that has the flu on it and then touching your nose, mouth, and eyes. Make sure to regularly clean all surfaces in your home and at work, especially when you know someone is sick.
  4. Wash your hands frequently. To avoid inhaling and ingesting the flu, wash your hands frequently. Make sure you also wash your hands before eating.
  5. Get a flu vaccine. Getting a flu shot can help reduce your risk of catching the flu. According to the CDC, the flu vaccine can limit your chances of getting the flu between 40%-60%. If you do happen to still get sick, having the vaccine can reduce the severity of your symptoms. Having the vaccine can also reduce the risk for people around you such as infants, elderly, and people with chronic health conditions.

For more information about the flu, visit the CDC website.

At ExperCARE, get a flu test and allow us to help treat your flu symptoms. Walk-in or schedule an appointment today.

With the school year in full swing, we had our team submit some of their favorite quick and delicious after school snacks to have on-hand. Check out 3 of our favorites below! We hope you enjoy these submissions from our team.  

For a sweet tooth: No-Bake Peanut Butter Bars 

Ingredients:  

  • 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips 
  • ½ cup creamy peanut butter  
  • 2 sticks butter, softened, plus more for greasing the pan 
  • 1 cup chunky peanut butter 
  • 2 cups powdered sugar 
  • 1 box (12 ounces) vanilla wafers 
  • 1 bag (12 ounces) semi-sweet mini chocolate chips  
  • ½ cup chopped peanuts  

Directions: 

  1. For the topping: Using a microwave, melt the chocolate chips and creamy peanut butter. Allow it to cool for a couple of minutes while you make the bars.  
  1. For the bars: grease a 9-by-13-inch pan with some butter. Using a stand or electric hand mixer, mix together the butter and chunky peanut butter until smooth. Stir in the powdered sugar one cup at a time. 
  1. Add the vanilla wafers to a food processor and process until they are crumbs. Then add the crumbs and mini chocolate chips to the peanut butter mixture and mix until just combined. Spread it evenly into the buttered pan and set aside.  
  1. Pour the topping over the base. Spread it out evenly and sprinkle over the chopped peanuts. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour, then cut into 20 bars.  
  1. Keep refrigerated, as the bars and chocolate will soften at room temperature.  

Salty Snack: Garlic-Ranch Party Mix 

Ingredients 

  • 8 tablespoons (1 stick) unsalted butter 
  • 4 1/2 cups Rice Chex cereal 
  • 4 1/2 cups Wheat Chex cereal 
  • 2 cups bite-sized or mini pretzel twists 
  • 2 cups cheese crackers, such as Cheez-Its 
  • 1 cup oyster crackers 
  • 2 (1-ounce) packets ranch dressing seasoning mix (about 1/2 cup total), divided 

Directions 

  1. Arrange 2 racks to divide the oven into thirds and preheat the oven to 250°F. Line 2 rimmed baking sheets with parchment paper. 
  1. Place 8 tablespoons unsalted butter in a small, microwave-safe bowl. Microwave in 10-second intervals, stirring between each, until fully melted, 50 to 60 seconds total. (Alternatively, melt in a small saucepan on the stovetop over low heat.) 
  1. Place 4 1/2 cups Rice Chex, 4 1/2 cups Wheat Chex, 2 cups pretzel twists, 2 cups cheese crackers, 1 cup oyster crackers, and 1 packet of the ranch dressing seasoning mix in a large bowl, and lightly toss to combine. 
  1. Pour half of the butter over the cereal mixture and gently toss to coat. Sprinkle in the remaining ranch packet and butter, then gently toss again so all the pieces are evenly coated. 
  1. Divide the mixture between the prepared baking sheets and spread into an even layer. Bake, stirring every 15 minutes, until lightly browned and crisp, 45 to 50 minutes total. Let cool for 10 minutes on the baking sheets before serving. 

Source {Garlic-Ranch Party Mix} 

Simple + Healthy Beverage: Strawberry Banana Smoothie 

Ingredients: 

  • 1 cup Strawberries- fresh or frozen 
  • 1 Banana- fresh or frozen; it is easiest to pre-chop and freeze bananas that are brown 
  • ½ cup Milk- can sub dairy-free milk, apple juice or orange juice  
  • For the best possible smoothie, make sure at least one of your fruits is frozen!  

Directions: 

  1. Blend all ingredients until smooth, adding a touch more milk as needed to reach a texture to your liking.  

Source {Strawberry Banana Smoothie} 

ExperCARE is always here for you! Walk in at your convenience or book ahead at any of our convenient Georgia urgent care locations. Open Monday-Friday 8:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m. Saturday & Sunday 8:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. 

How to Prevent Back to School Germs

As the back to school season approaches, it’s important to take steps to prevent the spread of germs in the classroom and at home. With so many children coming together in one space, the risk of illness spreading is high. However, by practicing good hygiene habits and taking preventative measures, you can help keep yourself and your family healthy.

1. Wash Your Hands

One of the simplest and most effective ways to prevent the spread of germs is by washing your hands frequently. Encourage your child to wash their hands throughout the day, especially before eating and after using the restroom. Use warm water and soap, and lather for at least 20 seconds before rinsing.

2. Use Hand Sanitizer

In addition to washing your hands, hand sanitizer can be an effective way to kill germs. Keep a small bottle of hand sanitizer in your child’s backpack for use when hand washing is not possible.

3. Teach Good Cough and Sneezing Etiquette

Coughing and sneezing are common ways for germs to spread. Teach your child to cover their mouth and nose with a tissue when coughing or sneezing. If a tissue is not available, encourage them to cough or sneeze into the crook of their elbow instead of their hands.

4. Keep Hands Away from Face

It’s easy for germs to enter the body through the eyes, nose or mouth. Encourage your child to keep their hands away from their face unless they have just washed their hands.

5. Disinfect Surfaces

Germs can live on surfaces for several hours, so it’s important to disinfect items as they go to and from school. Use an all-purpose cleaner or disinfectant wipes to keep these surfaces like backpacks and lunchboxes clean.

6. Stay Home When Sick

If your child is feeling sick, it’s important to keep them home from school to prevent the spread of germs. Make sure your child knows the importance of staying home when they are not feeling well and encourage rest and proper hydration.

ExperCARE is here to serve you when someone does bring home an icky, back-to-school germ! We are open 7 days a week, extended hours, accept insurance, and you never need an appointment. Visit one of our convenient locations today.

Five ExperCARE Health Tips for Getting Ready for Back to School

As we approach the back-to-school season, it’s important to take the necessary steps to ensure that both you and your child are ready for the new school year. Aside from purchasing school supplies and uniforms, it’s important to focus on your health in preparation for the busy months ahead. We’ve compiled a list of the top 5 health tips for getting ready for back-to-school season.

1. Get up-to-date on Vaccinations and Sports Physicals

It’s important to make sure that your child’s vaccinations are up-to-date before beginning the new school year. Many schools require certain vaccinations, and some vaccines may take several weeks to take effect, so it is best to schedule any necessary appointments with your healthcare provider well in advance.

Need a Sports Physical? ExperCARE is offering $25 Sports Physicals at all ExperCARE locations. Book ahead or walk in any time. We are here to help you get ready for Fall sports!

2. Establish a Sleep Schedule

As the summer months come to a close and the school year begins, it is important to establish a sleep schedule for your child. This will ensure that they are well-rested and alert during school hours. Below is the most recent recommendation from the American Academy of Pediatrics.

  • Ages 3-5 years: 10-13 hours (including naps)
  • Age 6-12 years: 9-12 hours
  • Age 13-18 years: 8-10 hours

3. Prepare Healthy Meals

Preparing healthy meals for your child is an important aspect of ensuring their overall health and wellbeing. Make sure that their meals consist of a variety of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. It’s also important to pack healthy school lunches and snacks to ensure that they are getting the nutrients they need throughout the day.

4. Encourage Physical Activity

Physical activity is essential for maintaining good health, and it can also improve academic performance. Encourage your child to engage in physical activities that they enjoy, such as swimming, biking, or dancing. Additionally, make sure that they have access to after-school activities that promote physical activity, such as sports teams or dance classes.

5. Prepare for Emergencies

It’s important to have a plan in place in case of emergencies, such as injuries or illnesses that occur during the school day. Make sure that you have updated emergency contact information on file with your child’s school, and that your child knows how to contact you in case of an emergency. Additionally, it’s important to have a well-stocked first aid kit at home in case of minor injuries or illnesses.

By following these top health tips, both you and your child will be well-prepared for the upcoming school year. Remember, making your health and wellbeing a top priority will set the foundation for a successful  school year.

Firework Safety: Tips to Keep You and Your Loved Ones Safe

Fireworks are a popular way to celebrate many occasions, from Independence Day to New Year’s Eve. However, they can also be dangerous if not handled properly. Here are 7 tips to keep you and your loved ones safe while enjoying fireworks:

1. Follow the Law

Before purchasing or setting off fireworks, make sure you are following all local laws and regulations. Some areas prohibit fireworks altogether, while others have specific rules about when and where they can be used.

2. Keep a Safe Distance

Always keep a safe distance from fireworks when they are being set off. A good rule of thumb is to stay at least 500 feet away from any fireworks display.

3. Wear Protective Gear

Wearing protective gear, such as safety glasses and earplugs, can help prevent injuries from fireworks. It’s also a good idea to wear long sleeves and pants to protect your skin.

4. Never Relight a Dud

If a firework doesn’t go off, don’t try to relight it. Wait at least 20 minutes and then soak it in water before disposing of it.

5. Keep Water Nearby

Keep a bucket of water or a hose nearby in case of a fire. It’s also a good idea to have a fire extinguisher on hand.

6. Don’t Drink and Light

Never set off fireworks while under the influence of drugs or alcohol. This can impair your judgment and increase the risk of injury.

7. Supervise Children

Children should never handle fireworks without adult supervision. Even sparklers can be dangerous and cause serious burns.

By following these tips, you can enjoy fireworks safely and avoid injuries. Remember, safety comes first when it comes to fireworks.

ExperCARE is here for you this July 4th holiday. Walk in at your convenience or book ahead at any of our convenient Georgia urgent care locations!

Friday, June 30: 8:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m.

Saturday, July 1: 8:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.

Sunday, July 2: 8:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.

Monday, July 3: 8:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m.

Tuesday, July 4th: 8:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.

Happy celebrating!

Summer is here and it’s time to enjoy the great outdoors! But before you head out, it’s important to take precautions and protect yourself from the harmful effects of UV rays. Here are some ExperTIPS to keep in mind:

1. Wear Protective Clothing
One of the easiest ways to protect yourself from UV rays is to wear protective clothing. This includes long-sleeved shirts, pants, and hats with wide brims. Look for clothing made with UPF (Ultraviolet Protection Factor) fabric, which is specifically designed to block out UV rays.

2. Use Sunscreen
Sunscreen is a must-have when spending time outdoors.

According to the CDC’s Sun Safety information it is recommended that you put on broad spectrum sunscreen that filters out both UVA and UVB rays and has an SPF of 15 or higher before you go outside. Don’t forget to put a thick layer on all exposed skin. Get help for hard-to-reach places like your back. And remember, sunscreen works best when combined with other options.

Sunscreen is not recommended for babies who are 6 months old or younger. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration recommends keeping infants out of the sun during midday and using protective clothing if they have to be in the sun.

SPF: Sunscreens are assigned a sun protection factor (SPF), which is a number that rates how well they filter out UV rays. Higher numbers indicate more protection. You should use a broad spectrum sunscreen with SPF of 15 or higher.

Reapplication: Sunscreen wears off. Put it on again if you stay out in the sun for more than 2 hours and after swimming, sweating, or toweling off.

Expiration date: Check the sunscreen’s expiration date. Sunscreen without an expiration date has a shelf life of no more than 3 years. Its shelf life is shorter if it has been exposed to high temperatures.

3. Seek Shade
When possible, seek shade during the hottest parts of the day, typically between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. This is when the sun’s rays are the strongest. If you’re at the beach or pool, consider bringing an umbrella or setting up under a shady tree.

4. Wear Sunglasses
Protect your eyes from UV rays by wearing sunglasses with UV protection. Look for sunglasses that block out 99-100% of both UVA and UVB rays.

5. Stay Hydrated
Drinking plenty of water is important for overall health, but it’s especially important when spending time outdoors. Be sure to bring a water bottle with you and drink regularly to stay hydrated.

By following these UV safety tips, you can enjoy the outdoors while protecting yourself from harmful sun rays.

While we hope you won’t need us, we’re here for you throughout the summer. ExperCARE is open 7 days a week, extended hours, and we treat all ages. Stay safe and have fun!

ExperCARE Health Hosts Pooler Business Community Easter Egg Hunt!
The Easter Egg Hunt Takes Place April 1 – 7, 2023

SAVANNAH, GA – ExperCARE Health, an award winning, locally owned and operated on-demand health care center, has announced it will host a Pooler Business Community Easter Egg Hunt April 1 – 7, 2023 in partnership with other Pooler Businesses.

Participating is easy.

1. Visit as many of the locations listed below as you wish and find the Easter Egg at each business.
2. Once you’ve found the egg, trade it in for a special prize and then bring all the collected entry eggs to our Pooler location to enter in the grand prize.
3. Be sure you scan the QR code to find more participating businesses.
4. Can’t wait to meet you at ExperCARE Pooler (2201 Pooler Pkwy, Pooler, GA 31322)
5. Each collected egg counts as an entry to win our Grand Prize with over $500 in gift cards, prizes, and swag!

The more businesses you visit, the more chances you have to win. Participants may submit one entry for every entry egg!

*Must be 18 or older to win Grand Prize
**Please check individual businesses hours of operations

Event Details:
Date: April 1 – 7, 2023
Winner announced April 8, 2023

Participating Pooler businesses include:

• ExperCARE Pooler – 2201 Pooler Parkway
• 40 Volume – 405 US HWY 80W Unit 101
• Apollo Pharmacy – 111 Canal St #101
• Atlas Physiotherapy – 100 Blue Moon Xing Ste 112
• Buff City Soap – 250 Pooler Parkway
• Chick Fil A – Pooler – 180 Pooler Pkwy
• Chick Fil A SQ – 2021 Pooler Pkwy
• Crumbl Cookie – 2201 Pooler Pkwy Unit # 400
• Fleet Feet Pooler – 1702 Pooler Pkwy Unit 103
• Full Bloom Salon and Dry Bar – 105 Grand Central Blvd Suite 104
• GiGi’s Cupcakes Pooler – 1 N Godley Station Blvd Suite C-109
• Great Oaks Bank – 2100 Pooler Pkwy
• Just Love Coffee – 1 N Godley Station Blvd A102
• LVL Up Pizza – 100 Blue Moon Xing Suite 110
• Member’s First Credit Union – 1501 Pooler Pkwy – at the corner of Pooler Parkway and Pine Barren
• Nourish – 483 Pooler Pkwy
• Orange Theory Pooler – 201 Blue Moon Crossing Suites 3 & 4
• Pooler Chamber – 305 W Collins St.
• Southern Nutrition – 2201 Pooler Pkwy Ste. 200
• Small Cakes Savannah Quarters – 100 Blue Moon Xing
• Stretch Zone – 1 Godley Station Blvd Suite C103
• Taco Stache – 100 Blue Moon Xing Suite 111
• The Center for Women’s Health – 105 Grand Central Blvd Suite 106
• The Salt Table –  1370 US Highway 80 East
• Trisha Cook Realty – 920 Morgans Corner Rd Suite E
• Woof Gang Bakery Pooler – 100 Blue Moon Xing
• West Chatham YMCA – 165 Isaac G Laroche Dr.

“We are thrilled to partner with so many businesses in Pooler to host this community Easter Egg Hunt”, said Catherine Grant, Founder & CEO of ExperCARE Health. “We opened our Pooler location a little more than a year ago with the intent to become Pooler’s most-loved solution for on-demand healthcare. We are beyond grateful for the Pooler community’s support over the last year and look forward to continuing to serve Pooler’s growth for many years to come. We look forward to you joining us for this fun, family-friendly Easter Egg Hunt throughout Pooler and make sure to stop by and see us!”

ABOUT EXPERCARE HEALTH:
ExperCARE Health has convenient locations across the Greater Savannah area: Richmond Hill, Mall Boulevard, Downtown Savannah, Pooler next to Costco and locations opening soon in Statesboro, Hinesville, and Rincon. As the shortage of primary care providers grows and ER’s are over-capacity, on-demand healthcare provides a solution that serves your busy life. ExperCARE is an award-winning healthcare center, offering access to urgent care, routine care and occupational health, 7 days a week, extended hours to all ages. ExperCARE is in-network with all major insurance providers, and you never need an appointment. ExperCARE is the southeast regions most-loved solution for on-demand healthcare. Experience the healthcare model of the future; experience the ExperCARE difference!
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ExperCARE Health, an award winning, locally owned and operated on-demand health care center, has announced it will celebrate it’s 14th year in business serving the Greater Savannah area with top-quality, customer-focused healthcare! ExperCARE plans to celebrate by hosting a celebration at their flagship location in Richmond Hill, GA on Thursday, March 30th in conjunction with the Richmond Hill Bryan County Chamber of Commerce Business After Hours.

“It is such an honor to have the opportunity to serve the Richmond Hill community for nearly 14 years,” said Catherine Grant, Founder and CEO. “When we founded ExperCARE, we envisioned a healthcare model that provided convenience and access to top-quality medical care, close to home. It’s been an incredible 14 years and we look forward to celebrating with the Richmond Hill community that has continued to support us since day one,” said Grant.

Event Details:

Date: Thursday, March 30th

Time: 5:30 p.m. – 7:00 p.m.

Location: ExperCARE Richmond Hill – 60 Exchange Street, Suite B7 Richmond Hill, GA 31324

Details: Stop by and celebrate with ExperBEAR and a special guest!  A 50/50 Raffle will be featured with proceeds benefitting the Richmond Hill High School Wildcats Athletic Department

For more information, please go to www.ExperCAREhealth.com.

ABOUT EXPERCARE HEALTH:

ExperCARE Health has convenient locations across the Greater Savannah area: Richmond Hill, Mall Boulevard, Downtown Savannah, Pooler next to Costco and locations opening soon in Statesboro, Hinesville and Rincon.  As the shortage of primary care providers grows and ER’s are over-capacity, on-demand healthcare provides a solution that serves your busy life. ExperCARE is an award-winning healthcare center, offering access to urgent care, routine care and occupational health, 7 days a week, extended hours to all ages.  ExperCARE is in-network with all major insurance providers, and you never need an appointment. ExperCARE is the southeast regions most-loved solution for on-demand healthcare. Experience the healthcare model of the future; experience the ExperCARE difference!

An article from Reflections Richmond Hill, Spring 2022 Issue

WORDS BY DR. JAY JAY HENDRIX  PHOTOS BY ERIN HIXSON PHOTOGRAPHY

My heroes make waves. They have common attributes: brave, resourceful, yet humble – living as if rules are “guidelines” and traditional roles are to be challenged. As a consequence, they’re amusingly misunderstood.

Who inspires you?
A family member, neighbor, celebrity, or teacher? Perhaps a parent who set a standard and held you to it? People with traits you admire and aspire to imitate?

Catherine Grant’s mother emphasized one of the same valuable lessons for her daughter as my dad did for me: Never need to depend on someone to take care of you. No doubt, given her example, her daughters will perfect this strength.

Raising three daughters is an enormous challenge in itself. Ask me how I know. When considering the possibilities for Catherine’s girls, a familiar saying comes to mind, “If you see her, you can be her.” Little girls need examples in a variety of roles to know they have options. Sometimes rather than plotting a course for us to follow, the people we admire inspire us instead on an uncharted journey.

“Who inspired you?” I asked.

Encircled by stacks upon stacks of books confirming her thirst for growth, Catherine answered without a second of hesitation, “My mom.”

She vividly described an iconic mother-figure, content to earn the “degree of Mrs.,” required to shift direction by a marriage that didn’t work, a twist among many that would set the foundation for the building of her daughter’s tenacity. Beyond the quintessential story of a mom needing to work with her child in tow, the stage was set for an inquisitive daughter to inherit a relentless work ethic and commitment to excellence. Catherine was eight when her mother re-married. Poppy, as he was lovingly known, became a piece of her balance. With his selfless love and encouragement, he helped her mother lay the foundation- the forging of an entrepreneur. She learned early that work was her way to achieve her goals, and she set sail on that sea.

Catherine’s accolades and accomplishments are expanding in much the same fashion as the business she co-founded. Since opening the first urgent care center in Richmond Hill in 2009, she has been stacking recognitions and awards as neatly as the books surrounding her CEO chair. With her at the helm, ExperCARE is opening a fifth location.

Motivated to be a part of the solution to what she considers to be a “broken” system, Catherine envisions “healthcare the way it should be,” patient-focused with an improved standard of care. “People deserve better care,” and together with her leadership team, ExperCARE is advancing that mission.

Leadership, business fundamentals, self-improvement, and biographies make up Catherine’s reading collection, but she is clear about her Source. One of her guiding Bible verses is from Philippians 4:13 “For I can do everything through Christ, who gives me strength.”

“We all need a True North.” Catherine relies on her relationship with Jesus to provide truth, wisdom, and discernment. “I want to have a tangible impact by helping others experience Him.”

What are you building?

Catherine’s answer to this question again hails her mother’s recurring influence. She believes that what we hear as children becomes our inner voice, and she heard the incessant message, “With hard work, you can be and do anything.” Work does not intimidate Catherine, nor does challenge. In fact, challenge propels her to thrive. The inner voice she now conjures in the face of adversity repeats, “You were created for this.” Together with Scott, her husband, counsel, and confidant, the Grant’s are building full steam ahead.

Catherine’s waves extend beyond business to create broader change for a better world. Alzheimer’s, childhood cancer, and United Way fundraising; serving on boards for community development and healthcare advancement; and volunteering to mentor future business leaders are among her commitments to advocacy.

All of the accomplishments in her wake haven’t changed Catherine’s ultimate goal: to be more like the person who inspires her by exemplifying unconditional love. “In a broken world, my mom has been able to love others even when they were not easy to love.”

Her three young daughters, Grayson 12, Madison 9, and Emerson 1, are watching, and if their mother’s accomplishments seem impressive, I predict a tsunami. Catherine describes them as fearless and passionate. Grayson helped build the recycling program at school, and together with sister Madison, they worked diligently to raise funds for a clean water project in Zimbabwe. Their mom recognizes that her most important role is to encourage her daughters to become all that they were created to be, just like the person who inspired her.

Our daughters are watching; and so are our sons. May we inspire them and others to make waves. Waves are shifting and fading, but the changes they create are immensely powerful, enduring, and inspiring. May we never underestimate ripples.