MINIT-MED BLOG

Pharmacies in West Maui tend to have much more restricted hours than most visitors are used to.  Because Minit-Medical is open for extended hours and the pharmacies are not, we stock a full in-house inventory of prescrition medications.  We try and have available at all times any combination of medicines the majority of patients will wind up needing when their prescription can’t be filled at the pharmacies.

Also, many people opt for the convenience of getting their medications at Minit-Medical, making it their fast, friendly, and efficient “one-stop-shop” !

As Minit-Medical boldly strides through it’s second quarter, we face the challenges of the economic recession head-on.  With loss of jobs comes loss of health insurance, and people are feeling the pinch.  However, we have nothing on this earth more important than our health, and citizens are reminded to monitor their health and get symptoms and illnesses evaluated and treated promptly.  An ounce of prevention (such as a simple doctor visit) can save future morbidity and far more costly medical bills.

2 more cases confirmed on Oahu, none on Maui yet.  Have flu symptoms checked at Minit-Medical Urgent Care. . .

The state DOH has issue a VOG alert for Maui county.  People are advised to stay indoors whenever possible.  The reversal of direction of the trade winds is expected to last until after the weekend.  Asthmatics, people with emphysema\COPD, sufferers of allergic rhinitis and eye problems are having a particularly tough time with the VOG.  VOG, or volcanic fog, contains sulfur-dioxide, a toxic chemical that is irritating to mucus membranes and, in high enough concentrations, can be used in chemical warfare.

It is advised to seek a consultation with a Minit-Medical physician if you suffer from cough, mild shortness of breath, sore throat, eye or nose irritation, or rashes associated with VOG exposure.  Minit-Medical offers medicated nebulizer treatments, intramuscular steroid injections, and a full in house pharmacy. 

Moderate or severe shortness of breath warrants dialing 911 on your phone.

Go to http://kgmb9.com/main/content/view/17789/251/ for the report.

Sea urchin stings are common on Maui.  The pain can be quite intense, and the brittle stingers can remain imbedded.  The important thing is not to panic, remain calm, and to seek treatment by a physician immediately.  The local advice to urinate on the wound is largely unhelpful and could increase the chance of infection.  It is true, however, that the acetic acid (CH3COOH) found in vinegar can be helpful to neutralize the venom in the stingers, and thusly improve pain.  The main risk is of infection, and antibiotic therapy should be initiated immediately.  Any large stingers, or stingers involving a joint, should be removed.  Removal of stingers is difficult, as they are brittle and barbed.  Tetanus status should be established and boosted when indicated.  Pain medicine may be warranted, especially in the first couple of days.

Wana stings don’t have to end your fun in Maui, but they are serious and should be treated immediately.  Minit-Medical Urgent Care Clinic is located right beside several major beaches from Launiupoko to Kapalua, and is equipped and ready to treat ocean injuries of all sorts. (808) 667-6161

Seeking locums coverage for August 16th- 26th, enquire at care@minit-medical.com

check out our CDC link for all the latest

West Maui rejoices at the grand opening of Minit-Medical Urgent Care Clinic, located in the Lahaina Gateway Lifestyle Center.

Aloha and welcome to the official Minit-Med Blog!