YOUR GUIDE TO LIVING WELL FALL 2021
GETTING YOUR HEALTH BACK ON TRACK Adventist HealthCare physicians share simple moves you can make. Page 12
ASSESS YOUR HEALTH FOR A CHANCE TO WIN AN APPLE WATCH. PAGE 13
NEWS BRIEF
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Tony Laporte holds his certificate after completing the Peripheral Artery Disease Rehabilitation program at Adventist HealthCare Shady Grove Medical Center’s Center for Fitness & Health.
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TABLE OF CONTENTS 3
Tech Support for the Body and Mind
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Partnering to Shed the Pounds
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Your Weight-Loss Surgery Questions, Answered Doors Opening! Rehabilitation Comes To White Oak Medical Center Making the Holidays Healthy Extending Caring and Kindness One Swan at a Time
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Getting Your Health Back on Track
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Pain-Free Living After Knee Replacement
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Fueling a Healthy Pregnancy
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Reimagining Healthcare in Southern Prince George’s County
FALL 2021
PERIPHERAL ARTERY DISEASE REHABILITATION PROGRAM OPENS
In April 2021, the Center for Fitness & Health at Adventist HealthCare Shady Grove Medical Center welcomed the first patient to its new Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD) Rehabilitation program. PAD rehabilitation is a medically monitored fitness program that focuses on improving stamina and reducing the symptoms of PAD, which is the narrowing or blockage of vessels that carry blood from the heart to the legs. Tony Laporte, 74, of Germantown, was the first patient to complete the program in June 2021, after a referral from a vascular specialist. As a long-time patient of the Center for Fitness & Health, Tony had heard about the program and wanted to give it a try. “I had 75 percent blockage in both of my legs. The pain in my right leg was so bad that I would walk about 500 feet, and my calves would cramp so badly that I couldn’t go any further,” Tony said. Before beginning the program, he was only able to walk on the treadmill for about three minutes. By the end, he was able to go for 10 minutes comfortably. “The PAD program was difficult, but you really feel a sense of accomplishment by the end,” he said. “I really have come a long way.” For patients considering giving the PAD program a try, Tony said go for it. “You’ve got nothing to lose. If you try it, you’ll find you can go so much further than you think you can go,” he said. “I am living proof of that.”
Check out all the offerings of the Shady Grove Center for Fitness & Health at AHCYou.com/F21Heart.
YOUR HEALTH
Tech Support for the Body and Mind:
MONITOR YOUR HEALTH WITH DIGITAL DEVICES Trying to make smarter health choices? Want to improve your mental well-being? Help may be as close as your wrist. EALTH trackers don’t just count steps anymore, and smartwatches do much more than tell time. Wearable technology can monitor stress levels, sleep quality, blood oxygen levels, ovulation and more. “I’m encouraged by the use of health trackers by many of my patients,” said Avni Jain, MD, family medicine physician with Adventist HealthCare. “Along with your doctor’s advice, they can be great tools to help achieve your overall health goals.”
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MAKE THE MOST OUT OF YOUR HEALTH TRACKER WITH THESE TIPS: Set goals: If your watch or wearable fitness device allows you to enter health goals, such as number of steps to walk, minutes of exercise to complete or ounces of water to consume, set these features. Using them will help to hold you accountable. Track your progress: Looking at your behavior over time will help you see where you need the most focus and allow you to determine ways to make changes. Check your numbers: Share data from your device with your doctor, who can encourage you and help you make a plan to improve.
APPS FOR MENTAL HEALTH Technology can help with mental health,
too. Studies by the National Institute of Mental Health show mental health apps are successful in reducing anxiety and depression when they are paired with a treatment plan. Even if you are not in treatment, apps may help symptoms of stress, anxiety or depression. Some apps that the mental health team at Adventist HealthCare Shady Grove Medical Center suggests are: • Sanvello helps people struggling with stress, anxiety or depression. It also encourages other healthy lifestyle habits like regular exercise, sleep and moderation of caffeine or alcohol. • Headspace focuses on meditative thought and is helpful for those new to the concept of mindfulness practices. The app’s features give users an overview of the science behind the exercises. • Therachat is a platform that allows counselors to schedule assignments and track the mood of their clients in between sessions. The app includes stress tracking, journaling, sleep tracking and live textual analysis of word usage. • MoodKit uses cognitive behavioral therapy to help users track and manage their moods over time. MoodKit includes activities designed to improve mood, a journaling feature and a “thought checker” that helps identify distorted thought processes.
Seeking mental health support? Visit AHCYou.com/F21Health. See page 13 for details about how you can use our online health tools for a chance to win an Apple Watch Series 7. AHCYOU.COM/F21
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HEALTHY YOU
PARTNERING TO SHED THE POUNDS CoreLife puts together the pieces of healthy weight loss. ATT Ogle, of Gaithersburg, Maryland, was overweight and knew he needed to make a change, but like many others, he struggled to take the first step. He noticed his knee and back pain were more frequent, and everyday movements such as squatting or bending over were difficult. Matt didn’t feel good about himself and wanted to shift toward a healthier lifestyle. Matt’s physician is Avni Jain, MD, a family medicine physician with Adventist HealthCare and medical director at CoreLife, a health program with locations throughout Maryland. At Matt’s yearly physical, Dr. Jain suggested he try CoreLife to guide his weight loss. CoreLife provides a comprehensive approach to health and weight loss management, utilizing a team of registered dietitians, certified personal trainers and healthcare providers. With them, Matt said, he was able to get the encouragement he needed to get started: “At that point, I didn’t have anything to lose except for weight.”
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STEP BY STEP After an introductory evaluation at CoreLife, the team taught Matt healthy habits such as portion control, what foods to incorporate into his diet or avoid, and how to calculate his daily caloric needs.
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FALL 2021
A food app also gave Matt a better understanding of the nutritional value of the foods he was putting into his body. “My biggest issue was portion control and sweets,” he said. “I was able to understand and keep track of what I was eating, as well as the amount of sodium, sugar and fat in each item.” CoreLife also recommends clients like Matt incorporate regular exercise into their routines to ensure long-term success. Members have the option of connecting with a personal trainer and have access to a 24/7 fitness center. For the first couple of months, Matt worked closely with a trainer. Now, his exercise routine includes visits to the CoreLife fitness center and walks at his local park. Since joining CoreLife in fall 2020, Matt has lost more than 50 pounds and continues to work toward his goal weight. While his journey is far from over, he said when he looks back on what he’s learned so far, the experience seems to be a re-education. “Having an organization like CoreLife there to help show me how to modify my lifestyle, what steps I need to take and how to achieve my goals makes all the difference,” Matt said. “While it takes a personal commitment, it does work.”
To find a CoreLife location near you and book your appointment, visit AHCYou.com/F21CoreLife.
WEIGHT LOSS
Your Weight-Loss Surgery Questions, Answered Weight-loss surgery, also known as bariatric or metabolic surgery, can be a lifesaving option for people who have difficulty losing weight or keeping it off or those with health conditions related to obesity. Tuesday F.A. Cook, MD, a bariatric surgeon with Adventist Medical Group, answers common questions about weight-loss surgery.
Q: How do I know if I’m a candidate?
Dr. Cook: Bariatric surgery is a great option for those struggling to maintain a healthy weight. You may be a candidate if you: • Have a body mass index (BMI) of 40 or greater, that is, more than 100 pounds overweight • Have a BMI of 35 or more with weight-related conditions such as diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol or sleep apnea • Are unable to lose weight and keep it off using diet and exercise
Q: Which surgery is best for me?
Dr. Cook: There are many bariatric surgical options available. The best one for you depends on several factors including your medical history and behavioral patterns. The most frequently performed are: • Sleeve gastrectomy: Approximately 80% of your stomach is removed. There are no alterations to your small intestine. This restricts the amount of food you can eat at once, making you feel full sooner. Hormonal changes also occur that assist in weight loss. • Roux-en-Y gastric bypass: This involves dividing the stomach and small intestine. Food will bypass a portion of the stomach and small bowel, causing metabolic changes. Your body will also absorb fewer calories from the food you eat.
• Adjustable gastric band: A small, adjustable silicone band is placed around the upper part of the stomach, making you feel full after a small amount of food. Together, you and your surgeon will decide on the type of operation that’s best for you.
Q: What can I expect after surgery?
Dr. Cook: After the operation, you could spend one to two days in the hospital and will have minimal pain. You must follow a specific, gradually advanced diet and exercise program at home. We teach this before surgery. I form a lifelong relationship with my patients and see them regularly after surgery to ensure that they are doing well. Surgery is the first step of a lifetime journey.
Q: How much weight will I lose?
Dr. Cook: The amount of weight a person loses will vary. Your doctor can help you understand what you can expect depending on your starting weight and the type of surgery performed. It’s important to remember that the operation is only a tool, and a healthy diet and regular exercise are needed to ensure lasting success. Close follow-up with your surgeon is also key.
To learn more about weight-loss surgery options with Adventist HealthCare, visit AHCYou.com/F21WeightLoss.
AHCYOU.COM/F21
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REHABILITATION
DOORS OPENING! Rehabilitation Comes To White Oak Medical Center 2021 has been a big year for Adventist HealthCare Rehabilitation and the communities it serves. DVENTIST Rehabilitation, the only acute-care physical rehabilitation hospital in Montgomery County, celebrated its 20th year of providing specialty services rooted in physical, mental and spiritual healing. Now, it is opening the doors to a new inpatient rehabilitation hospital inside of Adventist HealthCare White Oak Medical Center. Relocating from its previous Takoma Park location allows Adventist Rehabilitation to deliver high-quality services to more patients, improve the continuity of care from acute to post-acute and expand Adventist HealthCare’s hub for convenient, coordinated care on the White Oak campus.
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FALL 2021
PATIENTS COME FIRST As an expression of Adventist HealthCare’s vision “to provide a world-class patient experience to every person, every time,” Adventist Rehabilitation approached the design of the new twofloor, 42-bed hospital from the patient perspective first. Studies have shown that thoughtful design can reduce hospital-acquired infections and lengths of stay, fall risks and other complications. Examples of how the design serves patients include: • All private rooms, providing optimum comfort, quiet and privacy. • A ceiling track system in each room helps lead patients safely to their private bathrooms. • Two recovery gyms cater to different therapy needs. One is designed for patients who enjoy a more active environment, and one serves those who require less distraction and lower stimulation during therapy.
• A day room on both floors provides a place of respite and for socializing with patients and visitors. Day rooms are equipped with a kitchenette, a variety of comfortable seating, eating tables, computers and a wide-screen TV. “Patients who come through our doors have a tough climb ahead,” stated Kirsten Ricci, MD, medical director for Adventist Rehabilitation White Oak. “We respect the hard work they put into recovery so they can go on to live productive and independent lives. We want them to be encouraged and inspired as much as possible, which is the driving force for all we do.” To honor that hard work and provide real-life inspiration, the hospital design prominently features a painting by Michael Monaco, a local artist who was paralyzed from the neck down in an automobile accident in 1979 and passed away in July 2021. Michael, who painted by holding a brush in his mouth, has had many exhibitions around the world. His success despite physical limitations has encouraged other patients. He was also a member of the Mouth and Foot Painters Association, an association that raises money for disabled artists who need financial help. Artwork by other members is featured there as well. The rest of the facility’s artwork features nature scenes from nearby destinations. Without words, the art invites patients to become stronger and more mobile so they can visit these locations in person.
THE HIGHEST-QUALITY PROGRAMS Adventist Rehabilitation opened its first location in Rockville in January 2001 and quickly became the first acute rehabilitation hospital in a five-state region to earn accreditation by the Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities (CARF) in all four of its specialty areas: amputee, brain injury, spinal cord injury and stroke. In addition to the inpatient and outpatient services at Adventist Rehabilitation’s hospitals in Rockville and White Oak, patients can receive expert outpatient care at locations in Silver Spring and Gaithersburg. At Adventist Rehabilitation White Oak, patients with a traumatic injury or recovering from cardiac, orthopedic, neurological or a cancer-related condition will receive the highest quality care backed by CARF. Board-certified physicians who specialize in physical medicine and rehabilitation, certified rehabilitation nurses, therapists and other highly trained specialists work closely together to ensure patients receive care tailored to individual needs. Activities of daily living (ADL), such as cooking, cleaning and dressing, are at the core of independent living. Adventist Rehabilitation White Oak is equipped with an ADL apartment, in which patients can practice what they’ve learned in a simulated home environment to prepare for living outside of the hospital when they’re ready. Support is critical to recovery, so patients are encouraged to participate in support groups, both in person and virtually. Additionally, a Peer Visitor Program connects current patients and family members with former patients who can provide guidance, reduce the sense of isolation and offer hope.
Patients at Adventist HealthCare Rehabilitation White Oak can enjoy time in day rooms on each floor.
need it,” said Anthony Stahl, president of White Oak Medical Center. “Our teams are able to communicate with one another and share information faster and easier.” “Adventist HealthCare Rehabilitation seamlessly complements the services White Oak Medical Center offers, which enables us to offer a continuum of care for patients who require inpatient rehabilitation services,” said Rob Grange, administrator for Adventist Rehabilitation White Oak. “Conveniently, without delay, a patient can continue the next phase in his or her recovery process and healing. We are excited to be here and grateful for the opportunity to serve this community.”
For more information and a virtual tour of Adventist HealthCare Rehabilitation’s new White Oak hospital, go to AHCYou.com/F21Rehab.
COORDINATED, CONTINUOUS CARE Opening the new inpatient rehab inside of White Oak Medical Center has special advantages. “Continuous, uninterrupted care for patients as they move from the hospital to rehab ensures they get the care they need, when they AHCYOU.COM/F21
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CLASSES NOW BEING OFFERED ONLINE
LIVING healthy
Adventist HealthCare offers classes, events and activities to support a healthy body, mind and spirit. Most in-person classes and events are now offered virtually. For the most up-to-date information about our classes, visit AHCYou.com/F21Calendar.
PRENATAL, FAMILY AND WOMEN’S HEALTH Adventist HealthCare offers online pregnancy, childbirth and breastfeeding classes so that you can prepare for baby in the comfort and safety of your own home. Classes include: • Childbirth & Infant Care • Breastfeeding To learn more and register, visit AHCYou.com /F21Birth.
Support Groups Adventist HealthCare offers several online support groups for parents. To learn more, visit AHCYou.com/FA21Calendar or call 1-800-542-5096. BEST: Breastfeeding Education, Support and Togetherness When: Wednesdays from 10:30–11:30 a.m. Preregistration is required. Where: Visit AHCYou.com/F21Best for more details. Discovering Motherhood: Adjusting to Your New Role When: Mondays from 10:30–11:30 a.m. Preregistration is required. Where: Visit AHCYou.com/F21Moms for more details. Navigating Fatherhood Meets one Saturday a month When: Noon–1:30 p.m. Preregistration is required. Where: Visit AHCYou.com/F21Dads for more details.
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Perinatal Loss Support This six-week support group for those who have experienced a loss related to pregnancy is run by an experienced perinatal loss specialist. When: 7–8:30 p.m. Preregistration is required. Where: Visit AHCYou.com/F21Support for more details. Info: Call 1-800-542-5096 for dates and more information. Brazos Vacíos Grupo de apoyo para el duelo de perder un bebé o embarazo, para ayudarte a navegar tu pérdida. Cuándo: Martes as las 7 p.m. por Zoom. Para mas información o, para confirmar tu asistencia, favor de llamar al: 240-637-5265
MENTAL HEALTH SUPPORT GROUPS Virtual support groups are offered by the Outpatient Wellness Clinic at Adventist HealthCare Shady Grove Medical Center. Visit AHCYou.com/F21Support or call 301-838-4912 with questions or for more information. Coping with Stress, Anxiety & Depression This 5-session workshop will teach selfcare skills for individuals experiencing symptoms of stress, anxiety and depression. Ages 18+ When: 11 a.m.–noon on the following Tuesdays: Nov. 23 and 30; Dec. 7 and 14.
NUTRITION, FITNESS AND WEIGHT LOSS Weight Loss Program CoreLife and Adventist HealthCare’s unique program combines medical expertise, nutrition, fitness and behavior modification all under one roof to empower our patients to live healthier lives. Schedule your first appointment by calling 800-905-3261 and learn more by visiting us at AHCYou.com/F21CoreLife or on Facebook @CoreLife.
Weight-Loss Surgery Informational Seminars Learn about the life-changing weightloss surgery options offered at Adventist HealthCare Shady Grove Medical Center. Info: Ongoing series, open to all; call 240-826-5278 for information.
Post-Op Weight-Loss Surgery Support Group This group provides ongoing support for those who have had weight-loss surgery. Registration is not required. Info: Call 240-826-5278 for more information.
CPR CLASSES Adventist HealthCare Life Support partners with the American Heart Association to provide convenient CPR and First Aid courses. Visit AHCYou.com/ F21Calendar for course schedules, locations and registration. Classes are held at 14915 Broschart Road, Suite 100,
LEARN MORE OR REGISTER AT AHCYou.com/F21Calendar.
in Rockville unless otherwise noted. Call 240-826-2673 or email LifeSupport@ AdventistHealthCare.com for more information.
Adventist HealthCare’s Adult CPR and Safety This course teaches you about the importance of learning CPR and acting quickly in an emergency. Become trained, equipped and empowered to act before professional help arrives. Not intended for healthcare workers. Cost: $60/individual When: Monthly; details online.
American Heart Association: Family & Friends CPR
AHA Heartsaver CPR/AED and First Aid (NEW for 2021!) The AHA’s Heartsaver course is designed for anyone with little or no medical training who needs first aid and CPR training for job, regulatory or other requirements. This 5-hour combined program is for teens and adults who want to be prepared to act in an emergency. This class meets in person. A completion eCard, good for two years, will be issued when the course is completed. Cost: $115 for one attendee, discounts for multiple registrants. When: Monthly; details online.
American Heart Association: Infant Safety & CPR This class teaches safety, choking management and CPR for newborns through age 1. The association’s Family & Friends CPR attendance card will be given to each participant at completion. Grandparents welcome. NO BABIES PLEASE. Cost: $55 for main registrant, $15 for each additional guest (maximum 4 people) When: Monthly; details online.
American Heart Association: BLS, ACLS, PALS, NRP We offer the full suite of American Heart Association clinical courses. If you are a healthcare professional needing basic or advanced CPR certification, please contact us for details about class schedules and pricing.
Our Family & Friends CPR Course teaches the lifesaving skills of CPR for adults, children and infants, as well as how to address mild and severe airway blocks. Family & Friends CPR is for people who want to learn CPR but do not need a CPR course completion card to meet a job requirement. This course is ideal for community groups, new parents, grandparents, babysitters, and others interested in learning how to save a life. Not intended for healthcare workers. Cost: $60/individual When: Monthly; details online.
Home Alone Class Adventist HealthCare’s Home Alone Program provides children with the skills and knowledge to be safe and responsible when home alone for short periods of time. This course is intended for children ages 8–12 who are ready to take their first steps toward independence and being without adult supervision. Cost: $50/individual, discounts available for multiple registrants. When: Monthly; details online.
Child and Babysitting Safety Child & Babysitting Safety is an education program from the American Safety & Health Institute for children ages 12 and up who are planning to provide babysitting services for young children and infants. This 4-hour course will help students develop the knowledge, skills and confidence to effectively supervise and manage children in their care. Cost: $75/individual, discounts available for multiple registrants. When: Monthly; details online.
COMMUNITY HEALTH Class locations and more info are online at AHCYou.com/F21Calendar. Let’s Talk Blood Pressure Series: Exercise Join us as we cover the links between exercise and blood pressure. During this session, we will review adaptable exercises you can do regardless of your physical ability and environment. When: Nov. 8 from 1–2 p.m. AHC Health Talks: The Benefits of Being Kind Join us as we discuss the practice of being kind and examine the science behind it and the possible health impacts it has on us. When: Nov. 9 from 1–2 p.m. Act in Time: Heart Attack Signs By the end of this session, group members will learn: • What a heart attack is • Why it is important to seek treatment immediately • Warning signs of heart attack & why people delay in seeking help • The benefits of early intervention • How to plan ahead When: Nov. 16 from 1–2 p.m. Let’s Talk Blood Pressure Series: Stress Reduction This session will cover how stress reduction methods can lower blood pressure. Join us as we discuss stress, the effect it has on our blood pressure and how to have healthy blood pressure ranges. When: Dec. 13 from 1–2 p.m. Take Heart: Say YES to Physical Activity In this session, group members will know: • Why physical activity is good for the heart and overall health • How physical activity duration may vary for adults, adolescents and children • The benefits of brisk walking • How to fit physical activity into a busy schedule When: Dec. 14 from 1–2 p.m.
LEARN MORE OR REGISTER AT AHCYou.com/F21Calendar.
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HEALTHY EATING
Making the Holidays HEALTHY During the holidays, many people ditch healthy eating because it’s too difficult to stay on track. But celebrating doesn’t mean your diet has to be all or nothing. HE key,” said Emelie Buell, a registered dietitian with CoreLife Adventist HealthCare, “is to enjoy your favorites in moderation.” Also, simple food swaps can help make your holidays healthier. Here are five easy menu alternatives that balance staying fit and being festive. 1. Fix roasted sweet potatoes instead of white mashed potatoes. 2. Use low-fat milk instead of full-fat milk in dishes. 3. Don’t skip meals! Enjoy healthy, well-balanced meals prior to a holiday party to help avoid overeating. 4. Instead of pairing chips or bread with dip, try vegetables. 5. Make a dark chocolate bark with dried fruit to replace heavier desserts like pies and sugar cookies.
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Try Our Healthy Holiday Recipes!
PUMPKIN PARFAIT DESSERT By Tuka Chalabi, CoreLife Adventist HealthCare Registered Dietitian
INGREDIENTS ½ cup canned pure pumpkin tsp. pumpkin pie spice 2 no-calorie sweetener packets ½ cup light/low-fat ricotta cheese
¼ tsp. vanilla extract tsp. cinnamon 2 low-fat honey graham crackers (½ sheet), crushed
DIRECTIONS 1. In a small bowl, combine pumpkin, pumpkin pie spice and one sweetener packet. Mix well. 2. In another small bowl, combine ricotta cheese, vanilla extract, cinnamon and the remaining sweetener packet. Mix well. 3. Spoon half of the pumpkin mixture into a parfait glass (or any mid-sized glass). Top with half of the ricotta mixture. Repeat layering with remaining pumpkin mixture and ricotta mixture. 4. Sprinkle with crushed graham crackers and enjoy!
NUTRITION FACTS About 205 calories, 13 grams protein, 24.5 grams carb, 6 grams fiber
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SHEET PAN ROASTED VEGETABLES By Tuka Chalabi, CoreLife Adventist HealthCare Registered Dietitian
INGREDIENTS 3 Tbsp. olive oil 2 Tbsp. whole-grain mustard 1 Tbsp. chopped fresh thyme 1 Tbsp. apple cider vinegar, divided ¾ tsp. salt ½ tsp. black pepper 1 lb. peeled cubed butternut squash, about 3 cups
1 lb. parsnips, peeled and cut into 1-inch pieces, about 2 ¼ cups 1 lb. Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved 8 oz. small Yukon Gold potatoes, halved Cooking spray
DIRECTIONS 1. Preheat oven to 450°F. While the oven is heating, combine oil, mustard, thyme, 2 tsp. vinegar, salt and pepper in a bowl, stirring with a whisk. 2. Combine butternut squash, parsnips, Brussels sprouts and potatoes in a large bowl. Add mustard mixture to bowl, tossing to coat. 3. Spray baking sheet with cooking spray then spread vegetable mixture in a single layer. 4. Bake at 450°F for 35 minutes or until browned and tender, stirring gently with a spatula after 25 minutes. 5. Remove pan from the oven. Drizzle with remaining 1 tsp. vinegar, toss and enjoy!
NUTRITION FACTS About 133 calories, 3 grams protein, 22 grams carb, 6 grams fiber
For more healthy eating tips, sign up at AHCYou.com/ F21HealthyEating to receive our healthy eating email newsletter.
Adventist HealthCare White Oak Medical Center’s Environmental Services team members Annie Gonzales, Tynesha Harris, Monica Dunwell and Leidy Portillo assist each other in adding the finishing touches to a patient room by creating beautiful towel art in the image of a swan.
PATIENT CARE
EXTENDING CARING AND KINDNESS
One Swan at a Time
“They are not only our patients, but they are also our family and friends,” said Annie Gonzales, Environmental Services (EVS) attendant at Adventist HealthCare White Oak Medical Center, as she puts the finishing touches on a new patient’s room by folding a white towel into a beautiful swan. “I want to give them special treatment.” HE EVS team takes time to create the swans after cleaning each patient room. “This is typically something you would see in a hotel, so we thought it would be a good idea to add the swan to the presentation of a clean room to help our patients feel more comfortable while away from home,” Annie said. The swan was chosen because it is symbolic of peace, love and faith. “When a patient enters their room, it grabs their attention and speaks to the added kindness we will extend to them,” said Yolanda Rodriguez, White Oak Medical Center’s EVS manager, who started the program. “It’s the little things that matter. Most patients want to take it home because it means a lot to them and reminds them of the team that cared for them.” The EVS team first began folding a swan for each room on the Mother/Baby unit, or two swans if a mother was having twins. As additional team members learned the art of folding, the swans spread across many care areas of the hospital.
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“It’s not easy, but not too hard. It just takes practice,” said Margarita Pintor, EVS attendant. Over time, the team has thought of ways to add special touches. Two swans facing each other create a heart shape. “I thought it would be nice to make a heart for the patients in our cardiac units,” said Tanysha Bell, EVS attendant. “I like that I can learn something new and be creative. The patients really enjoy it. Sometimes I even show them how to make it.” A smile and a connection to others have healing power. The EVS team members at White Oak Medical Center say they are honored to be able to put a smile on the faces of patients and let them know that every team member, no matter the department, is contributing to their healing.
Want to join our team? Explore opportunities at AHCYOU.com/F21Careers. AHCYOU.COM/F21
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HOLISTIC HEALTH
Getting Your Health
Back on Track
The COVID-19 pandemic is making many of us look at our health differently. Some of us are wondering if we might be high-risk for serious health complications. Some of us have put healthcare concerns on hold. Many of us are feeling stressed, and our mental and physical health has worsened. As vaccines help us make progress against the pandemic and we approach a new year, we asked Adventist HealthCare physicians for their No. 1 piece of advice for a happier, healthier life. Here’s what they told us.
“You have a powerful tool in your hands – the capability to reduce your risk of a heart attack or stroke by 90 percent. Small steps make a huge difference. Get help to quit smoking, cut alcohol, maintain a healthy weight by eating right and most important – get moving! Start walking as much as you can.” – Daisy F. Lazarous, MD, Cardiology
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“Eat in moderation. I never say take all sweets out of your diet. If you’re eating sugary food every day, try to limit servings to just one or two times a week and see how that goes. In the long run, it improves your health a lot more than binge eating and can even help your mental health. You don’t have to eat things you don’t like to be healthy. You’re allowed to eat foods that you like.” – T Newsome, MD, Internal Medicine
“It’s important to combat a sedentary lifestyle, especially as our daily routines have changed during the course of the pandemic. We need to specifically make an effort to decrease the amount of time we spend sitting, which is true even if we are exercising regularly. The more time someone spends sitting, the higher their risk for medical conditions, including diabetes, obesity, cardiovascular disease, and even certain types of cancers. Stay physically active to stay healthy!” – Trey Godwin, MD, Physical Health and Rehabilitation
“Take small steps daily to transform your health and ultimately your life by adding more movement to your day and more color on your plate. This means walking a little more each day and incorporating more colorful fruits and vegetables at each meal.” – Ogechi Anyaoku, MD, Internal Medicine
“Laugh as much as possible, when appropriate. It’s a great stress reliever and is truly medicine. Take time to find the things that make you laugh, like stand-up comedy! We all need laughter in our lives.” – Marissa Leslie, MD, Medical Director, Psychiatry
“Find a balance between work and family. Life is so hectic working day to day and taking time for your family and yourself is very important for your well-being.” – Jonathan Rhee, MD, Urology
START HERE FOR A CHANCE TO WIN Ready to make your move and improve your health? Learning your risk of disease is a great place to start. We’ve made it easy with our online assessments. They’re free and only take a few minutes to complete. Complete one before Dec. 31 for your chance to win an Apple Watch Series 7.
BREAST CANCER RISK
COLORECTAL CANCER RISK
HEART HEALTH RISK
STROKE RISK
DIABETES RISK
KNEE & HIP PAIN RISK
Take one or all of our online assessments. The more you take, the more chances to win. Visit AHCYou.com/F21MakeYourMove to get started! AHCYOU.COM/F21
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PATIENT PROFILE
PAIN-FREE LIVING AFTER KNEE REPLACEMENT This year, Sue Weld of Rockville, Maryland, got to do something she’d been missing: tend to her beloved garden plants and shrubs. OST of my yard is garden,” said Sue, 82. “This year, I’ve been able to bend down to weed and prune under bushes,” she says. “And I had not been able to do that for the past couple of growing seasons before this one.” In spring 2020, Sue twisted and tore the meniscus of her right knee while pruning plants – a sudden injury that worsened years of arthritis damage she’d already endured. “My knee swelled up, and I could hardly walk,” Sue said. “I had never experienced that kind of pain before.” Now, though, Sue is back to her full and active life after roboticassisted total knee replacement surgery in October 2020. Her recovery was fast and essentially pain free. In August, she was able to spend hours on her feet as she strolled through a favorite D.C.area museum. “I navigated the Metro, walked hours at the museum and managed several flights of stairs, and it was not a problem,” Sue said. “It’s been wonderful.”
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CUTTING-EDGE KNEE REPLACEMENT Sue’s rheumatologist realized her meniscus tears would require surgery. In fall 2020, she sought treatment from Sridhar Durbhakula, MD, an orthopedic surgeon with Adventist HealthCare Shady Grove Medical Center who specializes in knee and hip repair and replacement.
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To perform Sue’s total knee replacement, Dr. Durbhakula utilized Shady Grove Medical Center’s ROSA® machine. This high-tech, roboticassisted orthopedic surgery system allows surgeons to more precisely place knee replacement implants. ROSA®’s imaging abilities can capture real-time, 3D images of the patient’s precise knee anatomy. With ROSA®, surgeons can accurately place knee implants with less separation of the muscles, leading to less pain and easier recovery for patients. “There was no pain after the surgery,” Sue said. “I was able to walk in the hospital immediately after surgery with a walker.” Sue attributes her fast and complete recovery both to the benefits of robotic-assisted surgery and to her own diligence about completing her daily, recommended physical therapy exercises to reduce the development of scar tissue. She also credits Dr. Durbhakula and the entire orthopedic care team at Shady Grove Medical Center for helping the surgery go so smoothly. “Everyone there was excellent,” she said. “I can’t say enough good things about them.” In the coming years, Sue expects she’ll need knee replacement on her left knee due to arthritis damage. When she does, she plans to ask for Dr. Durbhakula and the ROSA® system again. “When it comes time to have another knee surgery, I won’t have any qualms about doing it,” Sue said. “Dr. Durbhakula explained that, with the ROSA®, he’s able to be incredibly precise in aligning the implants. It’s a phenomenal surgery.”
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WOMEN’S HEALTH
Healthy Pregnancy Keeping a healthy lifestyle is especially important when you are pregnant. A well-balanced diet helps meet the special nutritional needs that your baby and your body have during pregnancy. ADD JUST ENOUGH CALORIES When a woman is pregnant, she might hear, “You’re eating for two now!” Homayara Haque Aziz, MD, an OB-GYN who practices at Adventist HealthCare White Oak Medical Center explained the saying is true to an extent, but you shouldn’t think of pregnancy as a time to eat twice as much. “If you are a healthy weight and expecting one baby, you typically will not require any extra calories in the first trimester,” Dr. Aziz said. “In the second trimester, you need around an additional 340 calories per day and an additional 450 calories each day in the third trimester.” When adding additional calories to your diet, try to get them from healthy foods, such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains and proteins, and limit junk food and sugary drinks.
STAY WELL HYDRATED When you’re expecting, you need more fluids than you did prior to your pregnancy. You should aim for at least 8-12 glasses of fluids each day. “Fluids help play an important role in getting nutrients to your baby,” Dr. Aziz said. “While water is a great source of fluids, you can also try drinking sparkling water, milk, protein drinks or even soup.” If you’re having trouble getting enough fluids, try carrying a water bottle wherever you go as a reminder to stay hydrated. Adding fruit to your water for flavor also may be a good way to help you increase your fluids.
TAKE PRENATAL SUPPLEMENTS If you’re pregnant or planning to get pregnant, take prenatal vitamins. Even women with healthy diets can miss out on key nutrients. “Prenatal vitamins are vital for your baby’s development,” Dr. Aziz said.“They include the appropriate amount of folic acid, iron and calcium to help support a healthy pregnancy.”
Are you expecting? Learn more about giving birth at Adventist HealthCare White Oak Medical Center or Adventist HealthCare Shady Grove Medical Center. Visit AHCYou.com/F21Baby.
WORLD-CLASS CARE FOR BABIES ON THE GO Babies who need to travel to the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) at Adventist HealthCare Shady Grove Medical Center in Rockville, Maryland, have a new ride, featuring the same sophisticated technology found in the hospital. This summer the NICU began using its new Voyager Transport Incubator™. The transporter allows for on-the-go intensive care for critically ill babies, including: • Total body cooling • Conventional ventilation or high-frequency • Phototherapy for jaundice • Neurological support ventilation (400 to 900 breaths per minute) • Inhaled nitric oxide therapy for respiratory failure The transporter helps nurses monitor vital signs and change the position of infants while they are on the move. The incubator reduces noise, comes equipped with an eye shield and has a shock-absorbing mattress. The Level III NICU at Shady Grove Medical Center transports about 50 babies a year from surrounding hospitals, including Adventist HealthCare White Oak Medical Center, when they need more advanced care.
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Adventist HealthCare complies with applicable federal civil rights laws and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, disability or sex. For more information, see link on our homepage at AdventistHealthCare.com. ATENCIÓN: si habla español, tiene a su disposición servicios gratuitos de asistencia lingüística. Llame al 301-315-3333. 注意：如果您使用繁體中文，您可以免費獲得語言援助 服務。請致電 301-315-3333。
This publication does not serve as a substitute for professional medical care. Consult your physician before undertaking any form of medical treatment or adopting any exercise program or dietary guidelines.
COMMUNITY BENEFIT
Reimagining Healthcare in Southern Prince George’s County
Adventist HealthCare’s New Medical Pavilion at National Harbor is Near Completion you approach the east end of National Harbor in Oxon Hill, you can see Adventist HealthCare’s five-story, 97,000-square-foot medical pavilion taking shape. This expansive facility will help bring the residents of southern Prince George’s County and surrounding areas several much-needed healthcare services: a surgery center, cardiac catheterization laboratory, cancer care, physical rehabilitation, wound care and interventional radiology. Adventist HealthCare broke ground on the facility, officially named Medical Pavilion II, in October 2020. Since then, builders have moved at an impressive pace to complete construction by mid-year 2022. The pavilion is part of Adventist HealthCare’s goal of helping residents of the metropolitan D.C. area respond to their chronic health challenges.
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Medical Pavilion II will connect patients with high-quality services, skilled physicians and new job opportunities. The pavilion is just one of many multifaceted expansion projects that Adventist HealthCare has planned for southern Prince George’s County. Adventist HealthCare Fort Washington Medical Center plans new construction that will increase its ability to care for more patients in Oxon Hill, Temple Hills, Accokeek, Fort Washington and parts of southeast Washington, D.C. In 2020, the health system opened a primary care office in Fort Washington, allowing the community more access to care they need from physicians, close to home.
Consider a gift to support Adventist HealthCare’s expanded health services in Prince George’s County. Donate at AHCYou.com/F21Give.
