Health in the Hills

Everything You Need to Know About WIC with Jan Johnson | Health in the Hills Podcast

This week on Health in the Hills, Jeff and Tammy are joined by WIC Program Coordinator Jan Johnson to discuss the many services and benefits available through the WIC Program at the Pike County Health Department. Jan explains how WIC (Women, Infants, and Children) supports eligible families through nutrition education, healthy food benefits, breastfeeding support, and referrals to other important health services. Whether you're expecting a child, caring for a young child, or simply want to learn more about the program, this episode provides a helpful overview of the resources available to local families. The conversation also covers who qualifies for WIC, how to apply, and the positive impact the program has on the health and well-being of mothers, infants, and young children throughout the community. Topics Covered: • What WIC is and who qualifies • Healthy food and nutrition benefits • Breastfeeding support and education • Services available through the Pike County Health Department • How to apply and get started with WIC WIC has helped millions of families access nutritious foods and health resources, and Jan shares how those services continue to make a difference right here in Eastern Kentucky.

Inside the HANDS Program: Support for Kentucky Families with Paula Compton | Health in the Hills

This week on Health in the Hills, Jeff and Tammy are joined by HANDS Program Manager Paula Compton to take a closer look at one of Kentucky’s most impactful early childhood support programs. Paula breaks down what the HANDS (Health Access Nurturing Development Services) program is, who qualifies, and how it helps families build strong, healthy foundations from pregnancy through early childhood. From home visitation services to parenting support and child development resources, this episode highlights how HANDS works directly with families to improve outcomes for both parents and children. Whether you’re an expecting parent, a new caregiver, or simply want to better understand the resources available in your community, this conversation offers clear insight into how the HANDS Program makes a difference across Eastern Kentucky.

Harm Reduction and the Rise of Synthetic Opioids | Health in the Hills Podcast

This week on Health in the Hills, Jeff and Tammy are joined by Sgt. Kevin Belcher and Public Health Manager Laura Fraley for an important conversation on harm reduction and the growing presence of synthetic opioids in our communities. They break down what these substances are, why they’re so dangerous, and what steps are being taken locally to reduce harm and save lives. This episode focuses on awareness, prevention, and real-world strategies that are making a difference. Watch now on Youtube: https://youtu.be/PPS8FRrGhio [https://youtu.be/PPS8FRrGhio] Stay informed. Stay aware.

Flu, RSV, and COVID: What to Know This Season | Health in the Hills Podcast

This week on Health in the Hills, Jeff and Tammy break down what you need to know as flu season ramps up, and they also dive into the continued presence of RSV and COVID in our communities. From symptoms and prevention to when it’s time to see a doctor, this episode covers the key information families need during peak respiratory illness season. And yes, if you’re looking for the video… it didn’t make it. Consider this a throwback, audio-only edition. Same trusted information, same familiar voices, just without the camera. Sometimes the bugs show up before the technology does. Topics include: • What flu, RSV, and COVID look like this season • How these illnesses spread • Warning signs that shouldn’t be ignored • Best ways to protect yourself and your family • Why vaccination, hygiene, and awareness still matter Even without video, this episode delivers timely, practical guidance to help keep your household informed and healthy.

Food Safety Tips with Environmental Health Director Jackie Cole | Health in the Hills Podcast

Health in the Hills returns with a timely holiday edition as Jeff and Tammy welcome back Environmental Health Director Jackie Cole for a deep dive into food safety during the busiest cooking season of the year. Jackie breaks down the essential practices that keep families safe, including the core mantra every kitchen should follow: Clean, Separate, Cook, and Chill. From stopping cross-contamination before it happens to ensuring foods reach — and stay at — safe temperatures, this episode gives listeners the clear, practical guidance needed for a healthy holiday gathering.