Monthly Updates:

Estrella Pediatrics will be closed on September 5, 2022 in observation of the Labor Day holiday.

Coronavirus (COVID-19) Office Restrictions:

The health and well-being of our patients, families and staff is important to us. In an effort to prevent the spread of COVID-19, we have made some changes.

• We ask if anyone has sick symptoms on the date of your appointment, has been exposed to COVID-19 by close contact, or is awaiting results, please call to discuss first. We may need to reschedule your appointment.
• Flu vaccine is available through appointment only. We ask that for your nurse visit appointment for flu vaccine, you call us once arrived in the parking lot for further instructions.

We have a well side entrance and sick side entrance. Please utilize the appropriate entrance to help keep our well patients well.

AHCCCS Renewals:

At the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, the federal government declared a public health emergency (PHE). For the duration of the PHE, Medicaid programs were required to continue health care coverage for all medical assistance programs, even if a member’s eligibility changed. We expect the PHE to end later this year and when it does, AHCCCS will return to normal Medicaid renewal processes. You can help AHCCCS members prepare for renewal so that all eligible Arizonans continue to be enrolled in AHCCCS or KidsCare.

AHCCCS asks all members to do three things:

1. Make sure your mailing address, phone number, and email address on file is correct in www.healthearizonaplus.gov, or by calling Health-e-Arizona Plus at 1-855-HEA-PLUS (1-855-432-7587), Monday through Friday 7:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.
2. Check your mailbox for a letter from AHCCCS about renewal of coverage.
3. Respond to any requests from AHCCCS for more information so the agency can accurately determine eligibility.

*Announcement!*

• The Department of Health Services website lists many alternatives for COVID testing:
  DHS – Everyone – How to Get Tested (azdhs.gov)
  On this website, families can find a location in their neighborhood that will test individuals for COVID-19. They simply enter their ZIP code, and it will display nearby testing sites. Some sites do require appointments, and not every location will test pediatric patients so families should review the information carefully.

  If your patient is exhibiting the following symptoms, please refer them to the Emergency Department:

  • Trouble breathing
  • Persistent pain or pressure in the chest
  • New confusion
  • Inability to wake or stay awake
  • Pale, gray or blue-colored skin, lips or nail beds, depending on skin tone
• COVID-19 Vaccination Info
  The FDA and CDC have expanded authorization for the use of Pfizer vaccine in ages 12-15, making it now available to anyone 12 and up. Search by vaccine type and locations here: Find vaccine. And/or https://coronavirus-vaccine-outreach-tapi.hub.arcgis.com/
• Banner Nurse Now
  If you or a loved one is ill or injured, call Banner Nurse Now for medical advice. There is no charge for this service. Call when your child is sick, injured or need care advice: 602.747.7990 or 888.747.7990
• Flu Shots for 2021-22 season available
  Please call our office  623.388.3216 to schedule an appointment!