A Timely Reminder for Women and Girls to Make Good Health a Priority
March 11, 2022
One way that women can potentially get ahead of future health problems is by taking advantage of the comprehensive range of outpatient diagnostic and laboratory services available at each of South Texas Health System’s six freestanding emergency departments (FEDs).
Read more about our Outpatient Services →
With close-to-home locations throughout the Rio Grande Valley, these FEDs make it easy to access vital outpatient services. Plus, many of the diagnostic, imaging and lab appointments offered are available on a same-day, walk-in basis. What’s more, discounted rates are available for cash payments.
Knowing more about heightened risk factors for women, preventive care options and early warning signs can help decrease the care gap between women and men.
Taking Action Against Breast Cancer
Early detection is a key factor in winning the battle against breast cancer. This all-too-common disease can typically be detected earlier, when it is more treatable, through breast self-exams, physical exams by a trained healthcare provider and recommended annual mammograms.
Throughout the month of May, South Texas Health System encourages women to be screened for breast cancer with a series of Cinco de Mammo celebrations.
This monthlong promotion encourages women to schedule and get their annual mammograms. Throughout May, their facilities provide mammograms at a reduced price*. They also host a series of events to encourage women to speak with their staff about breast screening options, including details about their cash pricing on mammograms.
Women and Stroke – When Every Minute Matters
According to the American Stroke Association®, women are at higher risk of stroke than men. In addition to the risk factors present in both men and women (high cholesterol, high blood pressure and family history of stroke), women should be aware of additional risk factors unique to women, including pregnancy, preeclampsia (high blood pressure that develops during pregnancy), migraines with aura and birth control pills.
South Texas Health System McAllen is a Certified Comprehensive Stroke Center
Every minute matters in a stroke, which is why so many women in the Rio Grande Valley rely on the South Texas Health System Neurosciences & Stroke Institute. With five certified facilities providing emergency stroke care, South Texas Health System is everywhere you need them to be.
Comprehensive Close-to-Home Heart Care
According to the American Heart Association®, heart disease is the leading cause of death for both women and men in the United States. Unfortunately, because heart attack symptoms vary between men and women, women may be less likely to recognize the signs of a heart attack and could delay seeking much-needed emergency care.
If you experience any of these symptoms, call 911 and get to a hospital right away.
- Uncomfortable pressure, squeezing, fullness or pain in the center of your chest.
- Pain or discomfort in one or both arms, the back, neck, jaw or stomach.
- Shortness of breath with or without chest discomfort.
- Other signs such as breaking out in a cold sweat, nausea or lightheadedness.
- As with men, women’s most common heart attack symptom is chest pain or discomfort. But women are somewhat more likely than men to experience some of the other common symptoms, particularly shortness of breath, nausea/vomiting and back or jaw pain.
South Texas Health System Heart is recognized among the nation’s best in cardiac care and heart surgery, as well as healthcare quality and safety by the nation’s highest standards-setting healthcare organizations. They offer comprehensive services to help keep your heart healthy and strong, including diagnostic imaging, cardiac surgery, emergency heart care, intensive cardiac rehabilitation, valve repair/replacement and women’s heart health.
Learn more about South Texas Health System Heart →
These are just a handful of the many healthcare services available at South Texas Health System.
During National Women’s Health Week – and throughout the year – it’s important for women of all ages to talk to their doctor about regular health screenings, preventive medicine and what you can do to focus on your health and wellness.
Women’s health matters. It is never too early, or too late, to start thinking about yours.
*If an annual screening mammogram is not covered by your insurance plan; an online coupon will be available to bring with you to receive the special discounted rate. If an annual screening mammogram is covered by your insurance plan, bring your physician referral and STHS will bill your insurance accordingly.
Physicians are independent practitioners who, with limited exceptions, are not employees or agents of South Texas Health System. The System shall not be liable for actions or treatments provided by physicians. For language assistance, disability accommodations and the nondiscrimination notice, visit our website.