McLaren Flint

02/20/2026

WHAT'S GOING AROUND?— Each week, we ask our ER providers what ailments and conditions are commonly being seen in our Emergency Room.

THIS WEEK, Craig Keinath, an emergency physician at McLaren Health Care, reports:

Influenza
While patients are still testing positive for the flu, the volume of cases has continued its downward trend of the past several weeks.

URI
Though patients are presenting with flu-like symptoms of cough, fever, and congestion, the majority are testing negative while experiencing the symptoms of an upper respiratory infection.

Injuries
Despite the recent relief in the winter weather, soft tissue and orthopedic injuries stemming from slip and falls continue to be a very common reason patients are seeking care in the emergency and trauma center.

02/20/2026

Want sugar? It seems like the more we eat and drink, the more we crave. There are three things you can do to curb those cravings:
Eat a snack or meal every 3-4 hours.
Eat protein or fat at each meal to help keep you fuller longer.
Stay hydrated throughout the day.
"It's okay to indulge in your favorite treats, but if you're ravenous with sugar cravings daily, you simply may not be eating or drinking enough water during the day to begin with," said McLaren Flint clinical dietitian Elexia Sylvester.

02/19/2026

Congratulations go out to Jeffrey Miller, PA, Surgical Services, McLaren Flint's Allied Health Provider of the First Quarter. Jeff has had a long career with the hospital, working primarily in orthopedics and now in the trauma program.
"Jeff has shown a lifelong commitment to learning and teaching," said his nominator. "He has been invaluable to both orthopedic and surgical residents in assisting with the care of our patients. Jeff always has a smile on his face, is always willing to help with any task, and is well-liked by everyone. He is an asset to the department and the community."

02/18/2026

McLaren Health Care and its McLaren Heart & Vascular Institute have launched a first-of-its-kind cardiovascular screening program in Michigan to strengthen and expand its ability to identify patients’ risk for heart disease earlier and connect them with timely, appropriate care.

McLaren Health Care and its McLaren Heart & Vascular Institute have launched a first-of-its-kind cardiovascular screening program in Michigan to strengthen and expand its ability to identify patients’ risk for heart disease earlier and connect them with timely, appropriate care. Launched in pa...

02/18/2026

McLaren Flint congratulates Dr. Mahmoud Rayes, our Physician of the First Quarter. Dr. Rayes is an interventional neurologist and neurocritical care physician who is respected by his team for his compassion for patients and willingness to go the extra mile.
"Dr. Rayes is always approachable, willing to help wherever needed, and is an excellent teacher," said his nominator. "He has worked extensively with staff involved in all aspects of stroke care, from neurocritical care to the cath lab, the office, and the Stroke Network. He goes above and beyond to do all he can for our patients and their families."

02/17/2026

Back and neck pain are extremely common. A stunning 80 percent of American adults will experience back pain, and nine percent suffer with it chronically. Surgery is not the answer for everyone. In fact, only about 10 percent of cases require it. So how do you know when to seek help? A McLaren Flint orthopedic spine surgeon has some answers at the link.

Back and neck pain are extremely common. A stunning 80 percent of American adults will experience back pain, and nine percent suffer with it chronically.  Surgery is not the answer for everyone.  In fact, only about 10 percent of cases require it.  “Fortunately, the majority of back...

02/16/2026

McLaren Flint will expand its GME training program by adding an emergency medicine residency. Its inaugural class will start July 1, 2026. The hospital received approval from the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education to add a specialty training program and 24 resident physicians. Follow the link to learn more.

McLaren Flint, part of statewide McLaren Health Care and its extensive Graduate Medical Education department, has expanded its hospital-based GME training program with the addition of an emergency medicine residency. The hospital received approval from the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical....

02/13/2026

This time of year, most of us are trying everything we can to not get sick. Boosting our immune systems is a big part of that. Your go-to may be fruit, but veggies can contain vitamin C, too.
“Oranges are the first place we look, but red bell peppers actually have more vitamin C,” said McLaren Flint clinical dietitian Elexia Sylvester. “Steam or stir-fry the versatile vegetable for your next lunch or dinner.”

02/12/2026

We invite you to join this month’s Flint Community Webinar focused on kidney health. During this webinar, local experts will discuss kidney disease in Michigan and Genesee County, early warning signs, prevention strategies, and treatment options. Speakers will also highlight programs and resources available to support patients and caregivers. We hope to see you there!

When? Friday, February 13, 2025, 12-1pm.

Register for the webinar here: https://tinyurl.com/FlintWebinar

Please share with your networks!

02/09/2026

A high blood pressure reading at an eye appointment in February 2024 changed everything for Carri Martin. The 52-year-old didn’t have health insurance or a primary care physician, but she found one. That ultimately led her to the discovery of two heart blockages. Read the message Carri and one of her doctors now want to share with other women at the link below.

Carri Martin found herself in a challenging situation. She didn’t have health insurance or a doctor for almost a decade. It was especially challenging because she needed to take her heart health seriously due to family history. Then, a routine eye exam in February 2024 changed everything. “They ...

02/07/2026

Feta cheese is a salty staple in the Mediterranean Diet. For a simple side dish, mix crumbled feta, cherry tomatoes, chopped cucumber, and a drizzle of olive oil and lemon juice.
“A serving is about one to two ounces. It's full of protein, calcium, and vitamin B12, making it a bone health powerhouse,” said McLaren Flint clinical dietitian Elexia Sylvester. “However, if you have high blood pressure, you probably should not eat large amounts.”

02/06/2026

On National Wear Red Day, we come together to raise awareness about heart disease, the leading cause of death for women. Wearing red is a powerful reminder to prioritize heart health, know your risks and take steps toward a healthier future.