Recent Blog Posts

Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs) (historically referred to as STDs)  are more prevalent than many think and if left undetected and untreated, can have severe consequences. Regular STI testing ensures early identification of any infections, enabling prompt medical intervention and preventing further transmission.  Consistent STI testing helps individuals take control of their sexual health. Many STIs may not display obvious symptoms after contraction, making testing the only reliable method for detection. Regular testing allows individuals to ...

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Portland, OR — A new, hard to detect virus is spreading around Portland and local medical providers at American Family Care (AFC), the nation’s largest provider of accessible primary care, urgent care and occupational medicine, are urging everyone to take note and be aware of a test that can identify the illness safely and quickly.   “The current allergy season is the worst it’s been in years, so we are seeing a lot of visits ...

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Do you feel like recently you and/or those around you have been getting sicker in recent allergy seasons? AFC Portland’s very own Chief Medical Officer, Dr. Andrew Miller, has some insight on what’s going on and what may be causing this uptick in illnesses. “The current allergy season is the worst that it’s been in years, so we are seeing a lot of visits for congestion, sore throat, and cough. These ...

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If you have a broken bone or a fracture, urgent care may be able to help. Learn the different types of fractures (broken bones), what we treat, and when to go to the ER vs. urgent care. How Do You Know a Bone is Broken? Every year, millions of people break a bone. Broken bones typically result from a trauma like a fall, car accident, or sports injury. Medical conditions such as osteoporosis or repetitive ...

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Almost three decades ago, in 1994, Congress established Men’s Health Week for the week leading up to Father’s Day. The declaration and observation was designed to raise awareness about the health challenges that men face. It is also a time to promote preventative health and the overall well-being of men. Since then, the observation expanded to include the entire month of June and is now observed by multiple other counties, making it “International ...

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Portland, OR — American Family Care (AFC), the nation’s largest provider of urgent care, accessible primary care, and occupational medicine, is pleased to announce its newest clinic in Cedar Mill. The new clinic on NW Cedar Falls Drive across from Market of Choice on Barnes Rd. opens to patients in the fall of this year. “We are eager to open this clinic in Cedar Mill and serve the families in this growing NW Portland community ...

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Portland, OR — American Family Care (AFC), the nation’s largest provider of urgent care, accessible primary care, and occupational medicine, is pleased to announce the Grand Opening for its newest clinic in Hillsboro. This will be the sixth AFC location serving the Portland Metropolitan region. It is conveniently located on TV Highway right across from Shute Park. “AFC is pleased to add this new clinic in Hillsboro, which will be one of our largest facilities ...

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Portland, OR — American Family Care (AFC), the nation’s largest provider of urgent care, accessible primary care, and occupational medicine, is pleased to announce it will open a new clinic in July 2022 to serve the community of Hillsboro. The new clinic will be located at 1071 SE Tualatin Valley Hwy and will be the sixth AFC location serving the Portland Metropolitan region. “AFC is pleased to add this new clinic in Hillsboro, which will ...

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Did you know that June is Brain and Alzheimer’s Awareness Month? Brain Awareness Month is a good time to highlight the significance of brain health and raise awareness about conditions like Alzheimer’s. Though many people think that they may be too young to worry about Alzheimer’s, it’s never too early to start taking care of your brain!  A healthy brain is important for a person’s overall wellness. Engaging in activities ...

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Memorial Day, observed in the United States on the last Monday of May, holds significant importance as a day of remembrance and reflection. It is a day to honor the brave men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice while serving in the nation’s armed forces.  Memorial Day emerged after the Civil War to commemorate fallen soldiers. It has since expanded to honor all military personnel who died in service to their country. On ...

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Summer is approaching along with warmer weather in the Pacific NW. After a long wet winter and spring, there is excitement for most of us. That said, it’s important to take precautions to protect ourselves from the sun’s harmful rays and the overall heat itself. Prolonged exposure to either sun or high temperatures can lead to symptoms such as sunburn, dehydration, heat exhaustion, and heat stroke. Because of all these factors, it is ...

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Physical for sports exams, also known as pre-participation physical examinations (PPEs), help determine whether a person is physically fit to participate in organized sports activities. This physical exam aims to identify any possible medical conditions that could put the athlete at risk for severe injury or illness during practice or competition. Sports physicals are typically done annually, though some states may require more frequent exams based on age and the type of sport being played ...

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Mental health refers to the overall state of an individual’s emotional, psychological, and social well-being. It encompasses a wide range of conditions that affect how we feel, think and behave. Mental health is important just like physical health, and a positive state of mental health is key to overall health.  The importance of mental health awareness can’t be overstated. Despite increased attention to mental health issues in recent years, the stigma surrounding mental ...

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Autism, also known as Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), is a developmental disorder that affects communication, social interaction, and behavior. It is a lifelong condition that manifests differently in each individual, with a wide range of abilities and challenges. Autism affects people of all ages, races, genders, and socioeconomic backgrounds, and it is estimated that 1 in 54 children in the United States is diagnosed with ASD.  Autism Awareness Month, observed annually in April, is a ...

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Spring in the Pacific Northwest brings a vibrant array of fresh produce that fills local markets and grocery store shelves. As the weather warms and the days grow longer, the region’s fertile lands awaken with an abundance of delicious fruits and vegetables. From crisp asparagus to juicy strawberries, there is a wide variety of seasonal produce to choose from. Shopping for foods that are in season is not only a culinary delight, but it ...

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While it is possible to develop lower back and leg pain from COVID, there are also several other causes. As experts in urgent healthcare services, AFC in Portland OR indicates why you might be experiencing back pain after COVID and explains some other reasons you might have lower back pain.    Lower Back and Leg Pain from COVID Lower back pain is a possible symptom of COVID-19. This doesn’t come as much of a surprise, given ...

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So, what is mono, and what are the symptoms? American Family Care in Portland OR has answers, and treatment, for you.  Mononucleosis (mono) is an infectious viral disease most commonly caused by the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), but other viruses can also cause it. Also sometimes known as the “kissing disease,” mono is spread through saliva and can even be passed from person to person from sharing cutlery and utensils. According to the CDC, mono occurs mainly ...

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Spring is a season of renewal and rejuvenation in Portland, Oregon, as the city wakes up from the long winter slumber. The cherry blossoms bloom, the daffodils sway in the gentle breeze, and the temperatures start to climb. However, for many residents, springtime also heralds the arrival of allergy season, bringing with it sneezing, itching, and congestion.  As the days get longer and the weather gets warmer, the trees in Portland begin to release pollen ...

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The healthcare industry has evolved to include telehealth urgent care, an innovative technology that has made it easier for people worldwide to access healthcare virtually.  This medical service offers faster urgent care visits through virtual appointments, providing services from physical exams to diagnostics, which allows healthcare providers to connect with patients remotely, providing care, support, and information from a distance. This can be particularly beneficial for patients with mobility or transportation issues, with busy schedules ...

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With the rise of telemedicine, there is an increasing availability of virtual doctor appointments. This is often a more convenient option for patients, but it is important to know when an in-person doctor’s appointment is necessary. However, in some cases, a virtual appointment may actually be the best option available.  In-person appointments should be booked when a physical exam is needed. This includes physical conditions such as broken bones, lacerations, or other ailments that ...

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