A Message From The CEO
As we enter this new season, it’s a great time to reflect on how the changing weather affects our health and well-being. This month, we’re focusing on Seasonal Health, understanding how shifts in temperature, daylight, and weather patterns influence both our physical and mental wellness. Whether it’s adjusting our routines to stay active, eating seasonally, or prioritizing rest, small changes can have a big impact on how we feel and perform. Let’s use this as an opportunity to support each other in making health a priority, no matter the season. Thank you all for your continued dedication and hard work this month. Your effort truly makes a difference! Stay healthy, stay balanced, and take care of yourselves and one another!

Avetik Machkalyan  CEO

SEASONAL HEALTH

Embrace the Seasons, Boost Your Health!

Why It’s Important and What It Is

Seasonal health refers to how the changing seasons affect our physical and mental well-being. Weather patterns, daylight hours, and temperatures can influence our immune system, energy levels, mood, and overall health. By understanding these changes, we can take steps to stay healthy throughout the year. Why It’s Important Physical Health: Seasons affect our immune system—colder months increase the risk of colds and flu, while warmer months bring allergens like pollen. Staying aware of these shifts helps us stay healthy and prevent illness.
Mental Health: Seasonal changes, especially in daylight, can impact mood. Shorter winter days may contribute to Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), while longer summer days often boost energy and mood. Recognizing these changes can help manage mental well-being.
Energy & Sleep: Seasonal shifts affect our sleep patterns and energy. Longer days in summer may disrupt sleep, while winter darkness can lead to fatigue. Adjusting habits like sleep routines and light exposure can help maintain energy levels.

How to Manage Seasonal Health

Nutrition: Eat seasonally to match your body’s needs, warm foods in winter and lighter, hydrating options in summer. Exercise: Stay active year-round with outdoor activities in warmer months and indoor exercises in colder months. Mental Wellness: To support mental health, stay connected, get sunlight, and consider light therapy or vitamin D in the winter.

Rest: Establish a regular sleep routine and adjust your environment for comfort with the changing seasons.

EMPLOYEE SPOTLIGHT

Laura Barajas, RDA 
This month, we’re excited to spotlight an incredible team member whose dedication, positivity, and exceptional work ethic inspire us all. Her contributions consistently go above and beyond, making a lasting impact on both our team and the company as a whole.
Join us in celebrating Laura Barajas!

An Interview with Laura Barajas
What’s been one of the most memorable moments or accomplishments during your time with Unicare?
One of the most memorable and impactful moments during my time with Unicare Community Health Center was helping a teenager who came in for dental services. During our interaction, I learned that he was struggling emotionally because his friend had recently committed suicide. Recognizing the need for additional support, I connected him with our behavioral health team, ensuring he had access to the resources he needed to process his grief and find healing. It was a powerful reminder of the holistic care we provide at Unicare Community Health Center. Being able to support not only a patient’s dental health but also their emotional well-being reinforced why I’m so passionate about my role. Moments like these remind me of the deep impact we can have on our patients’ lives.
What's your favorite type of cuisine? Any specific meals?
My favorite type of cuisine is my mom’s red pozole. There’s something so comforting about the way it’s made with so much love. It’s a connection to family, tradition, and some of my happiest memories on my birthdays. Nothing compares to a bowl of her pozole!
How do you stay motivated and balanced in your work? Do you have any personal routines or habits that help you succeed?
I stay motivated and balanced in my work by focusing on practices that nourish both my spirit and mindset. Every morning, I read inspirational Bible quotes to start my day with positivity and purpose. I also talk to my mom on my way to work, which is not only grounding but also gives me a sense of connection and encouragement. Listening to worship music as I prepare for the day helps center me and reminds me of the importance of compassion and service in my work. These habits allow me to approach each day with a sense of gratitude, focus, and resilience, which helps I give my best to my patients and colleagues.
What’s something that people may not know about you, either professionally or personally,that you'd like to share?
Something people may not know about me is that I decided to pursue a career in the dental field after my father passed away. Losing him was a deeply personal and challenging experience, but it also inspired me to dedicate my life to helping others. I wanted to be in a profession where I could make a positive difference in people’s lives, and becoming a dental assistant has allowed me to do just that. It’s incredibly fulfilling to know that through my work, I’m able to contribute to the health and well-being of others in meaningful ways every day.
WELCOME ONBOARD NEW HIRES!

We are delighted to introduce our newest members who bring fresh perspectives and talents to our company. As we continue to grow and evolve, we are excited to on board valuable contributors to Unicare. At our company, we value diversity, collaboration, and innovation, and we look forward to seeing all that our new hires will accomplish with Unicare.

Welcome to the team, we are thrilled to have you with us!

ALEXANDER BAHN
Dentist
VIVIAN NGO
FMP
MICHELLE QUINTERO
MA
ALBERT GUTIEREZZ
Account Payable Specialist
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