Newsletter - News of Interest to Adults 50 and Over
Every year heart attacks claim nearly 12,000 Iowans. 
Many of these victims never experience a warning sign. Even standard diagnostic procedures, like treadmill stress tests, may not reveal hidden coronary artery disease.
But now there’s MercyScan – a quick, easy screening exam that detects calcium in the arteries leading to the heart, indicating that atherosclerosis, or narrowing of the arteries, has begun. The MercyScan procedure takes only about fifteen minutes using specialized CT technology.
With early detection, lifestyle modifications and other risk management steps can help stop the advance of heart disease and reduce your potential for a heart attack. An order from your doctor is necessary.
The cost of each MercyScan is $350. Checks, Visa, and MasterCard are accepted at the time of your test. To schedule your MercyScan, call 319-398-6338.
Assistance for Prescrip Members!
- Would you like to know the cost of your next medication purchase using your Prescrip card?
- Have you and your physician discussed cost-saving alternatives if you are taking expensive brand name medications?
- Are you interested in receiving your prescriptions through a home delivery pharmacy?
- Which pharmacies in my area accept this card?
For answers to these and many other questions, please call the new Catalyst Scripts Member Assistance Center. The toll-free number is 866-565-0100.
The staff will be happy to assist you with questions regarding the cost of your medication using your Prescrip card. They will also discuss with you any cost-saving alternatives if you are taking expensive brand name medications. However, only your physician can make the decision regarding what medication is best for you.
In addition, you may inquire about the cost of your medications using a home delivery Pharmacy called FamilyMeds.
Free Breast Care Services
If the inability to pay is preventing you or someone you know from receiving breast care services, call
Mercy Women’s Center,
319-398-6821, for information about the “
Especially for You ” fund. Since October 1991 free mammograms and other breast care services have been provided to area women to receive breast cancer screening.
A healthy approach to fitness
Staying healthy and active for a lifetime can be a challenging goal. At Mercy Fitness Center and Mercy Wellness, we are prepared to help you meet your individual goals for improving fitness, reducing health risks, and increasing vitality. The following classes are offered:
Walk Express. Walking can revitalize your day! Take a 30-minute break and join a dedicated group of noon-time exercisers.
Energizers. A 50-minute low impact aerobic class designed to improve cardiovascular endurance, muscular strength and flexibility.
Fit For Life. A class for individuals who have health problems, which require supervised exercise.
Fit “N” Over 50. This 45-minute class designed for older adults improves cardiovascular endurance and muscular strength through movement to music.
P.A.C.E. (People with Arthritis Can Exercise) This 45-minute class designed specifically for people with arthritis helps increase joint mobility, muscular strength and endurance.
Yoga. Various classes designed to improve flexibility and relaxation.
Step Aerobics. You can get a great workout while stepping to the beat.
T’ai Chi. This exercise is composed of 20 gentle energizing movements that teach relaxation and centering techniques.
MERCY FITNESS CENTER: 319-221-8877
Mercy Health Plaza
5264 Council Street N. E.
Cedar Rapids, IA 52402
MERCY WELLNESS: 319-398-6591
Mercy Medical Center
701 10th Street S. E.
Cedar Rapids, IA 52403-1292
The Mercy Generations newsletter is published quarterly as a service to members and the community. For further information or additional copies, contact Mercy Generations at 319-398-6026 or toll-free 866-616-9600.
