Your Health

A guide to health and wellness programs

As a Brown & Toland member, you have a doctor who listens to your needs, respects your choices and provides you with the highest-quality care you can find. You also have access to some of the finest community health resources in San Francisco. Some of these classes are free, and others require a nominal fee or donation. Call the listed telephone number for more information.

Community Health Events

Massage for the Upper Body: Two-Part Series
Come and learn how to give a great upper body massage to increase circulation, reduce stress and feel good! In part one of this workshop, you will learn how to massage the head and neck. Part two focuses on the shoulders, arms and hands. No previous massage experience is necessary.
Part I (head and neck): Feb. 12, 10 a.m.–12:30 p.m.
Part II (shoulders, arms and hands): Feb. 19, 10 a.m.–12:30 p.m.
California Pacific Medical Center (CPMC), Women’s Health Resource Center, 3698 California St., Lobby Level.
Cost: $25 for each, or $45 to register for both. Please register two days prior. Call 415.600.0500 or see the class listings online.

Macular Degeneration
A California Pacific Medical Center (CPMC) ophthalmologist who specializes in macular degeneration will provide an overview of this condition. Learn about the early signs of macular degeneration, risk factors, the examination for a proper diagnosis, prevention strategies and state-of-the-art treatment options. Friday, Feb. 24, 3–4:30 p.m. CPMC, Pacific Campus, 2333 Buchanan St., Enright Room.
$10 donation suggested To preregister, please call the Community Health Resource Center at 415.923.3155 or This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .

Liver Health
This lecture will focus on the most common types of liver issues, including hepatitis C. A CPMC physician will go over the signs and symptoms and the most up-to-date information about emerging therapies. There will be time to ask questions during the question-and-answer session. Thursday, March 8, 2–3:30 p.m. CPMC, Pacific Campus, 2333 Buchanan St., Level A Conference Room.
$10 donation suggested To preregister, please call the Community Health Resource Center at 415.923.3155 or This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it

A Good Night’s Rest
There may be many factors preventing you from getting a good night’s rest, such as stress, environmental causes, a medical condition or anxiety. This workshop will focus on concrete self-care strategies and simple relaxation techniques in order to create outcomes including a stronger immune system, more energy and greater vitality. Thursday, March 1, 1:30–3 p.m. CPMC, Pacific Campus, 2351 Clay St., Third Floor, Thornton Board Room. $10 donation suggested To preregister, please call the Community Health Resource Center at 415.923.3155 or This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .

Nutrition and Weight Management

Healthy Kitchen, Part I
Are you looking for healthy and simple meal plans? Would you like tips on creating a kitchen that is ready to go with healthy ingredients on hand? This session with a registered dietitian will inspire you to think about the various aspects and components of food and how we can be organized, prepared and mindful in our eating habits and culture. Tuesday, March 20, 2–3:30 p.m. CPMC, Pacific Campus, 2333 Buchanan St., Level A Conference Room. $10 donation suggested. To preregister, please call the Community Health Resource Center at 415.923.3155 or This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .

The Power of Family Meals
Did you know that children who eat dinner with their families consume more fruits and vegetables, use less drugs and alcohol, and have better test scores? Did you know that 75 percent of all teenagers actually enjoy dinner with their families even if they don’t say a word to support that? Come to this special discussion to learn more. Thursday, Feb. 16, noon–1:30 p.m. CPMC, Pacific Campus, 2351 Clay St., Third Floor, Thornton Board Room.
$10 donation suggested. To preregister, please call the Community Health Resource Center at 415.923.3155 or This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .

Weight Management (FREE)
For Brown & Toland members only
Discover how to go beyond simple calorie counting in addition to learning physiological functions of the body. This presentation with a registered dietitian addresses the multilayered emotional and physical factors to consider when managing weight. Individuals gain practical tips for losing weight in a healthful way. Preregistration required. Thursday, April 12, 2–3:30 p.m. CPMC, Pacific Campus, 2333 Buchanan St., Level A Conference Room.
To preregister, please call the Community Health Resource Center at 415.923.3155 or This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .

BodyLOVE
BodyLOVE, a 12–week program with a nutritionist, teaches the physiology of weight loss and optimal eating and ways to manage cravings. Discover how to reduce stress-related eating and take part in the women’s discussion group. Facilitated by a psychotherapist. Meets Wednesdays from 6–9 p.m. weekly. Call for start date. CPMC, Women’s Health Resource Center, 3698. California St., Lobby Level. Fee: $40 a week. Call 415.600.0502 or see the online class listings.

Living with Cancer
For additional resources, see Support Groups.

Gentle Yoga for Gynecological and Breast Cancer Survivors
This series teaches a gentle yoga practice to support overall wellness and the healing process. Each sequence includes basic principles of movement, alignment and breathing awareness. Fridays. CPMC, Women’s Health Resource Center, 3698 California St., Lobby Level.
Cost: $45 for a six-week session; free for newcomers. Please register two days prior. For dates and times, or to register, call 415.600.0500 or see the online class listings.

Gynecological Cancer Recovery Program (FREE)
The Gynecological Cancer Recovery Program offers compassionate care and physical, emotional and spiritual healing to women undergoing treatment for uterine, ovarian, cervical, vaginal, vulvar and peritoneal cancers. The program provides free education and support services, tailored to meet patients’ needs.
CPMC, Women’s Health Resource Center, 3698 California St., Lobby Level. Call 415.600.0500.

Look Good … Feel Better (FREE)
Join a group of women who are facing the challenges of a cancer diagnosis and receive free cosmetics and lessons on how to compensate for thinning eyelashes and/or eyebrows, a free wig and tips on hair styling, free scarves, and scarf/turban tips. Breast forms/bras are also available for the uninsured. Offered in collaboration with the American Cancer Society. Please register two days prior.
March 15 and May 17, 1–4 p.m. CPMC, Women’s Health Resource Center, 3698 California St., Lobby Level. Call 415.600.0500 or see the online class listings.

Fitness and Excercise

Gentle Yoga for Seniors (FREE)
This is the perfect class for seniors and those who are new to yoga.
Thursdays, 11 a.m.–12:30 p.m. St. Mary’s Medical Center Hall, 2255 Hayes St. Call 415.750.5800. 

Gentle Yoga for Women
This series teaches a gentle yoga practice to support overall wellness and healing. The class is intended for beginners and those with chronic health conditions, such as cancer, diabetes and arthritis. Each sequence includes basic principles of movement, alignment and breathing awareness.
Fridays, 1–2 p.m. CPMC, Women’s Health Resource Center, 3698 California St., Lobby Level. Cost: $60 per six-week session. For dates and additional information, call 415.600.0500 or see the online class listings.

Healthy Heart Exercise
Supervised exercise program for people with high blood pressure, high cholesterol or diabetes, as well as those who are obese or sedentary.
Mondays and Wednesdays, 1–5:45 p.m. or Fridays, 1–4:45 p.m. Seton Medical Center, 1900 Sullivan Ave., Daly City. Cost: $8 per session. Call 650.991.6750.

Mall Walkers (FREE)
Join the St. Mary’s Medical Center indoor mall-walker program at Stonestown Mall.
Meets in center court every Thursday, 9 a.m. Stonestown Mall, 3251 20th Ave. Call 415.564.8848 or 415.750.5800.

WalkAbout/TalkAbout (FREE)
WalkAbout is Seton Medical Center’s twice-weekly walking and fitness program for seniors at the Serramonte Shopping Center.
Wednesdays and Fridays, 8:15–9:30 a.m. TalkAbout is a monthly health education program. First Friday of the month, 9:30–10 a.m. Call 650.991.5984.

Pregnancy and Parenting

CPMC Newborn Connections
A great resource for expectant parents: Whether you are contemplating having a baby or have recently given birth, Newborn Connections offers the support and education you need through pregnancy and early parenthood. Part of CPMC’s Women & Children’s Center, Newborn Connections provides ongoing prenatal classes, support groups, breastfeeding and baby supplies, and lactation services
CPMC, Women’s Health Resource Center, 3698 California St.
To register or for more information, visit Newborn Connections, call 415.600.2229, or This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .

Seton Medical Center
Seton offers classes for expectant parents. The Childbirth Education Series is a comprehensive six-week series that covers vital topics such as preparation for labor and delivery, newborn care and breastfeeding techniques. The hospital also offers a four-week course on preparing for labor and delivery, a one-session class on baby care basics and a one-session class on breastfeeding. The Infant CPR and Child Safety class instructs parents and caregivers on how to perform lifesaving skills on their children.
Seton Medical Center,
1900 Sullivan Ave., Daly City
For more information on cost, dates and times, call 650.991.6345.

St. Luke’s Women’s Center
St. Luke’s offers resources and classes for expectant parents and new mothers. The Childbirth Preparation Class is a one-day Saturday course that covers physical changes during pregnancy and labor, relaxation techniques, breathing techniques based on the Lamaze method, cesarean birth and anesthesia during childbirth. The Women’s Center also offers free prenatal and postpartum yoga classes.
CPMC, St. Luke’s Campus Women’s Center, 1580 Valencia St., 5th Floor, Suite 508
For information on classes and hospital tours (in English and Spanish), call 415.641.6911.

Aging Well

Advance Health Care Directives
An advance health care directive is important for anyone over the age of 18 to have in place so that your wishes will be followed at the end of life or in the event you become unable to make decisions. Class size limited to 10 persons.
Cost: $10
Monday, March 12, noon–1:30 p.m.
CPMC, 2100 Webster St., Suite 119, Board Room
To preregister, call the Community Health Resource Center at CPMC at 415.923.3155 or This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .

Aging in Place in the 21st Century
This presentation will explore how combining caring people with innovative technology is an efficient solution to keep elders safe and well taken care of at home. This model is a true alternative to institutional living and a comprehensive model of care for aging in place, regardless of health, chronic physical illness or type of dementia.
Tuesday, April 3, 2–3:30 p.m. CPMC, Pacific Campus, 2333 Buchanan St., Level A Conference Room.

Diabetes

CPMC Center for Diabetes Services
This American Diabetes Association (ADA)-recognized program provides classes and individual counseling sessions for adults and children with type 1 or type 2 diabetes. The center also offers prevention classes for those at risk for diabetes plus support groups and counseling. Staff speaks English, Tagalog, Spanish and Chinese. CPMC, Center for Diabetes Services, 3801 Sacramento St., 7th Floor. Call 415.600.0506.

Diabetes—Prediabetes Education: Two-Class Series (FREE)
This two-part series will help you understand the factors that can lead to diabetes and how you can make lifestyle changes to prevent it. The first class covers how diabetes develops, prevention, diet, exercise and other issues. The second class covers how to overcome obstacles to change and setting goals for a healthy regimen. Referral required. CPMC, Center for Diabetes Services, 3801 Sacramento St., 7th Floor. For dates and times, call CPMC, Center for Diabetes Services, at 415.600.0506.

Type 2 Diabetes Education: Four-Class Series (FREE)
A series of four classes for people with type 2 diabetes. The American Diabetes Association recognizes this education service as meeting the National Standards for Diabetes Self-Management Education. The classes and one-on-one appointments are tailored to meet individual needs. This dynamic, research-based program is patient-focused and taught by an expert staff of nurses, dietitians and a clinical social worker.
Class 1: Held most Mondays or Fridays, either 9 a.m.–noon or 1:30–4:30 p.m. Call for dates and times.
Classes 2, 3 and 4: Offered Tuesdays, 1:30–4 p.m.; Thursdays, 9–11:30 a.m.; or Thursday evenings, 6–8:30 p.m.
CPMC, Center for Diabetes Services, 3801 Sacramento St., 7th Floor
For more information on dates and times, visit Center for Diabetes Services or call 415.600.0506.

Seton Medical Center’s Living Healthy With Diabetes
These classes offer comprehensive diabetes self-management training.
Evening and morning classes available. Call 650.991.6607.

St. Luke’s Diabetes Center
If you have diabetes, St. Luke’s Diabetes Center works together with you and your physician to help keep your diabetes under control for a lifetime. We provide state-of-the-art training and care so you can maintain your best health and avoid complications. The center offers complete adult and child outpatient services, including screening, individual care instructions, diet and meal planning, and resources for supplies and services. CPMC, St. Luke’s Campus, 3555 Cesar Chavez St., Room 230. Call 415.641.6826 or email This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .

St. Mary’s Diabetes Group Classes (FREE)
This eight-week series of classes covers all aspects of taking care of your diabetes, including how to measure blood sugar, what foods to eat, and how to maintain weight and healthy cholesterol levels. You don’t need to start with Week 1—you are welcome to start with any of the classes. Guests are welcome, too. No registration is required.
Mondays, 4–5 p.m. St. Mary’s Medical Center, 450 Stanyan St., Cardiology Conference Room, Level C. Call 415.750.5513.

Support Groups

St. Mary’s Breast Cancer Support Group (FREE)
Give and get support from women who have had breast cancer in this facilitated support group. Friends and family are also invited to attend.
Tuesdays, 5–7 p.m.
St. Mary’s Medical Center, 450 Stanyan St., 6th Floor, Room 630
Call 415.750.5775.

CPMC Breast Cancer Support Group (FREE)
A weekly breast cancer support group facilitated by a nurse and psychologist. Open to women who are newly diagnosed, undergoing treatment or post-treatment.
Wednesdays, 5:30–7:30 p.m.
CPMC, Women’s Health Resource Center, 3698 California St., Lobby Level
Call 415.600.2717 for more information.

Breastfeeding Support Group (FREE)
Seton Medical Center,
1900 Sullivan Ave., Daly City
Call 650.991.6345 for dates and times.

Cancer Buddy Program
The CPMC Cancer Buddy Program connects patients in the first year of a cancer diagnosis with trained volunteer cancer survivors.
To request a buddy or to volunteer, call 415.923.3155.

Gynecological Cancer (FREE)
Women with uterine, ovarian, cervical, vaginal, peritoneal and/or vulvar cancer have the opportunity to talk with and gain support from other women who share similar experiences. Facilitated by an advanced practice nurse. For dates, times and more information, call 415.600.0500.

Heart Disease Support Group (FREE)
The purpose of the group is to explore ways to improve and maintain health and coping skills leading to a positive and productive life.
Wednesdays, noon–1 p.m.
St. Mary’s Medical Center, 2250 Hayes St., 3rd Floor
Call 415.750.5617. 

Melanoma Cancer (FREE)
Participants come together for discussion and to give and receive support from others sharing similar experiences. Refreshments provided.
Third Tuesdays, 2–3:30 p.m.
2351 Clay St., Deikel Conference Room 137
Call the Community Health Resource Center at 415.923.3155.

Liver Cancer (FREE)
Those living with liver cancer, family members, loved ones and caregivers are invited to participate. The purpose of the group is to provide emotional and social support, education and shared experience in an open, accepting environment. Refreshments provided.
Second Tuesday, 2–3:30 p.m. 2351 Clay St., Deikel Conference Room 137

Cancer Caregivers (FREE)
This group provides information and emotional support for spouses and partners of breast cancer survivors. Refreshments provided. Sponsored by the Bryan Hemming Cancer Care Center at CPMC.
Fourth Thursdays, 4–5 p.m. 2351 Clay St., Deikel Conference Room 137. Call the Community Health Resource Center at 415.923.3155.

Stroke Survivor (FREE)
This group is designed to aid the recovery of stroke survivors at any stage by providing a safe and supportive atmosphere in which individuals are able to share their experiences. Refreshments provided. Sponsored by Home Instead Senior Care San Francisco. First Thursdays, 1–2:30 p.m. CPMC, 2100 Webster St., Room 106. Call the Community Health Resource Center at 415.923.3155.

Health Education and Screening

Blood Pressure Screening (FREE)
St. Mary’s Medical Center offers free blood pressure screenings to all community members.
Mondays, 12:15–1:15 p.m. No appointment necessary.
St. Mary’s Medical Center, 2235 Hayes St., 5th Floor, Room F
Call 415.750.5959.

Blood Pressure Screening (FREE)
More than one in three adults have high blood pressure, which may result in stroke, heart attack, heart failure and arterial aneurysm. It is also a leading cause of kidney failure. Keep track of your blood pressure at these drop-in screenings.
Third Friday of the month, 1–2 p.m.
CPMC, 2100 Webster St., Suite 100
Call 415.923.3155.

Breast Health Education (FREE)
Free breast health consultation and information on breast health. By appointment only.
Seton Medical Center,
1900 Sullivan Ave., Ground Floor, Daly City
Call 650.991.6502.

Cholesterol and Diabetes Screening
Get your cholesterol level check and diabetes screening at Seton Medical Center. A 12-hour fast is required. Results will be mailed to you.
Seton Medical Center,
1900 Sullivan Ave., Daly City
Second Sunday of each month, 7–11:30 a.m.
Fee: $25
For more information, call 650.991.6466.

Osteoporosis Screenings
Schedule an appointment for screening with a bone densitometry ultrasound at the CPMC Women’s Health Resource Center. Meet with our nurse practitioner to discuss prevention, management and treatment of osteoporosis. Cost is $30 for ultrasound screening only; $30 for a half-hour osteoporosis consultation.
Free screenings will be offered by appointment on Thursday, April 26.
For an appointment, call 415.600.1957.