Medical 2014 – 2015
Answer Book • from Appen Media Group
Eyes on you WE SIT DOWN WITH MILAN EYE CENTER
ASK THE EXPERT Get the answers from the people who know best
BEST OF THE BEST
YOU VOTED, WE REVEAL
Caring experts. Close to home. At Gwinnett Medical Center, our doctors are transforming healthcare daily. They’re healers. They’re life changers. They’re caregivers. They are also medical leaders, teachers of advanced procedures and nationally renowned experts. And best of all, they are located right here in the community. Gwinnett Medical Center doctors are redefining what it means to be a community health system. Our growing community deserves the very best. When you’re choosing a doctor, turn to the caring, knowledgeable experts at Gwinnett Medical Center.
Call 678-312-5000 or visit us at gwinnettmedicalcenter.org.
2 • Medical Answer Book™ 2014 - 2015
Transforming Healthcare
F O R S Y T H
CO U N T Y ’S
First Independent Senior Living Townhome Community Offering Personal Care Home Services.
Forsyth County’s Finest in Senior Living
W
illow Lake Senior Living is Forsyth County’s first independent senior living townhome community to offer personal care home services. Designed to enhance the quality of the lives of our residents, Willow Lake Senior Living will provide your loved one a sense of peace and security. Willow Lake Senior Living Community offers residents the opportunity to continue to live in an environment that promotes independence, health, wellness, and safety while being able to receive the care that they need now or in the future.
lake to the state of the art, beautifully appointed Townhomes, our residents comfort and enjoyment have been carefully considered. We are conveniently located off of Georgia 400 near shopping, banking, recreational sites, entertainment, restaurants, and medical care. Willow Lake Senior Living Community invites you to visit us to experience Forsyth County’s finest in senior living.
An innovative alternative to moving into an assisted living community, Willow Lake allows couples or family members the option of living together independently in one of our townhomes while one or both of the residents receives assistance with their daily activities. We are dedicated to providing unique life experiences through the services and amenities that we will provide to our residents. The attention to the details of the Community, from the outdoor saltwater pool and the walking trails around the
Willow Lake Senior Living 4855 Willow Lake Lane • Cumming, GA 30041
(770) 887-7000 • www.willowlakeseniorliving.com
info@willowlakeseniorliving.com • ezylstra@willowlakeseniorliving.com
Medical Answer Book™ 2014 - 2015 • 3
to your 2014-2015 Medical Answer Book Welcome to your 2014-2015 Medical Answer Book—your community guide to local health and medical services. This is our fifth annual issue and we encourage you to contact us if your medical or health-related business missed this issue and you want to be included in the 20152016 edition. The Medical Answer Book is primarily home-delivered to more than 45,000 North Fulton and South Forsyth homes. Additionally, 5,000 are distributed throughout the year to area institutions including the cities, chambers, welcome centers, homeowner associations, realtors and other newcomer-oriented locations. If attracting new patients—especially those relocating to the area—is important to your medical practice, I know of no more effective vehicle to reach this
market. We now publish four different Answer Books—one each quarter—including Answer Books for Medical/Health, Education, Relocation and Lifestyles/ Destinations. All contain a wide range of information available from many different sources. The Answer Book, however, is the only source that compiles all of that information in an easy-to-read format. Plus, it's available online. If you are new to the area, our Answer Books provide a wonderful and useful resource to the community—its institutions, people, destinations and much, much more. We have published the Answer Book since 1990 and have more than 60 editions under our belt. We constantly update these publications and in recent issues have included a number of custom
maps designed to help residents navigate our community in areas ranging from education, recreation, destinations and places to live, dine, work and play. If you have questions about the Answer Book please contact us at 770-4423278. Online versions are also available on NorthFulton.com at the bottom of the home page.
RAY APPEN Publisher
You voted, we reveal
Features: [36] Halyard Health locates HQ in Alpharetta
David Brown Ryan DeVore Arthur J. McNaughton Suzanne Pacey
advertising@northfulton.com
[13] Hospital Profiles
[44] Best of North Fulton & South Forsyth
E D I TO R I AL
Carolyn Ridder Aspenson Jonathan Copsey Pat Fox Hatcher Hurd Aldo Nahed Jessa Pease
Hans Appen Abby Breaux James Carr Mike Dorman Wendy Goddard Susan Hernandez June Meltzer Becky Nelson Jade Rodgers Paige Roman
Locations for area hospitals, urgent care, dentists and more
Your questions answered by the best in the business
Ray & Christina Appen
ADV E R TI S I N G
[6] Directory of Doctors
[23] Ask the Expert
PUBL I S HE R S
PRO D UC TI O N
In this issue
Find the hospital that is right for you
Relocation Answer Book™
To Advertise In The 2015 Answer Book Call: (770) 442-3278
Page 42 Above and cover photo by Abby Breaux
Every year, Appen Media Group polls its readers to vote for the ‘Best of the Best’ medical facilities, doctors and services in North Fulton and South Forsyth. This year, Milan Eye Center was voted best ophthalmologist and best optometrist. Pictured are the doctors from Milan Eye Center back row from left; Dr. Anjum Cheema, Dr. Priyal Gadani, Dr. Gina Borgnini and Dr. Kiran Sajja. Sitting from left; Dr. Vishal Patel, Dr. Milan Patel, Dr. Niraj Desai and Dr. John Barker. [39] N on-invasive brain surgery coming to Northside Hospital [40] M ental health program
[37] Emory Johns Creek offers hope to amputee candidates
[48] H ealthcare laws make employers rethink business decisions
[38] North Fulton Hospital offers robotic surgery
[50] H ealthcare innovation
4 • Medical Answer Book™ 2014 - 2015
[51] Tips for senior health
[57] Q&A on breast cancer
[52] T imeline of medical appointments
[58] B est hospitals employ strict practices
[54] Healthcare reform
[60] W eight loss surgery FAQ
[56] M ore than medical coverage
[61] A DHD: Information for parents [62] Resources table
Reproduction of the content of the Answer Book—including all maps— is prohibited without expressed written permission. The Answer Book is a trademarked title. All efforts have been made to verify content. Appen Media Group publishes the Education Answer Book, the Relocation Answer Book, the Medical Answer Book and the Lifestyles Answer Book. Online versions are accessible on NorthFulton.com at the bottom of the home page. Contact us at 770-442-3278. 319 North Main Street, Alpharetta, GA 30009 www.northfulton.com Email additions/corrections for the next edition to news@northfulton.com
Medical Answer Book™ 2014 - 2015 • 5
Directory of Doctors Locations for area hospitals, urgent care, dentists and more Forsyth County, Medical & Seniors Guide Audiologists • Audiology HEARS – 6130 Southard Trace, Cumming – 770-781-2376 – audiologyhears.com 70. • Johns Creek Audiology 4045 Johns Creek Parkway, Suite B Suwanee, GA 30024 johnscreekaudiology.com 770-814-1260 • Ambit 3D Hearing Aids 5890 Bethelview Rd, Suite 10 Cumming, GA 30040 770-781-0537 1636 Oakbrook Drive - Suite B Gainesville, GA 30507 770-383-1869 ambit3ddirect.com • Little Listeners 1389 Weber Industrial Drive, Cumming, GA 30041 770-744-2451 littlelistenersclinic.com • North Fulton ENT 950 Sanders Rd. Cumming, Ga. 30041 770-886-582 northfultonent.com Child Services • Angels Over Forsyth - 3651 Peachtree Parkway, Suite E, PMB 350, Suwanee – 770-569-0776 – angelsoverforsyth. com • Hands on Forsyth - 133 Samaritan Drive, Cumming – 770-205-1701 – handsonforsyth.org Chiropractic • Catalyst Physical Medicine - 4914 Atlanta Hwy, Alpharetta - 770-6670099 - catalystphysicalmedicine.com • Vickery Chiropractic - 5830 Clarion Street Suite 101, Cumming - 678-9474449 - vickerychiro.com • Cumming Med Spa 2950 Buford Hwy # 140 Cumming, GA 30041 678-455-8800 cummingmedspa.com Counseling Services/ Mental Health • Family Counseling Associated of North Georgia – 102 Mary Alice Park Road Suite 504, Cumming – 1-888-8504891 – familycounseling4ng.com • Kids Creek Therapy – 3905 Johns Creek Court #250, Suwanee – 770888-5221 – kidscreektherapy.com • The Center for Psychotherapy of North Georgia – 634 Peachtree Parkway, Cumming – 678-513-7676 Dentists • Advanced Dental Associates – 285 Elm St., Cumming – 770-887-2915 – advanceddentalassociates.com
• Avenue Dental – 983 Peachtree Parkway, Cumming – 770-888-4444 – avenue-dental.com • Bryan Family Dentistry – 403 East Maple St., Cumming – 770-887-3223 – bryanfamilydentistry.com • Cumming Dental Associate – 1200 Bald Ridge Marina Road, #200, Cumming – 770-781-8560 – cummingdental.com • Cumming Dental Care – 416 Pirkle Ferry Road, Cumming – 770-889-1990 – cummingdentalcare.com • Cumming’s Family Dentist – 309 Pirkle Ferry Road, Cumming – 770-205-9226 – cummingsfamilydentist.com • Children’s Dentistry of Cumming – 407 East Maple St., #109, Cumming – 678445-5444 – childrensdds.com • Dental Town - 410 Peachtree Pkwy Bldg 400 Suite 4250, Cumming - 770887-8807 - johnscreekdentaltown.com • The Dentist – 1024 Market Place Blvd., Cumming – 770-844-6771 • Family & Cosmetic Dental Care - 2627 Peachtree Pkwy Suite 440, Suwanee 770-888-3384 - myjohnscreekdentist. com • Dr. James Lamb DMD, MS, PC - 285 Elm Street Suite 103, Cumming - 678455-7828 • Lemons Dental Esthetics – 4060 Johns Creek Parkway, Building B, Suwanee – 770-418 – 1414 – lemonsdental.com • Dr. Robert Shackelford – 3915 Johns Creek Court, Suwanee – 770-4428472 • North Georgia Smiles – 1595 Peachtree Parkway #207, Cumming – 770-888-8282 – northgeorgiasmiles. com • Pediatric Dentistry of Forsyth – 3810 Windermere Parkway #501, Cumming – 770-889-9600 – drjasonbongiovi. com • Montes Periodontics and Implant Dentistry 520 Pirkle Ferry Rd. Ste. B Cumming, GA 30040 770-325-5562 montesperiodontics.com • Windermere Dental 3860 Windermere Parkway, Suite 201 Cumming, GA 30041 678-455-3734 windermeredentalcare.com Dermatologists • Aesthetic Dermatology PC – 960 Sanders Road, #300, Cumming – 770205-0104 – aestheticdermpc.com • Atlanta Center-Dermatologic – 327 Dahlonega Road, #1501, Cumming – 770-844-1902 – atlcetnerforderm.com • Dermatology & Skin Cancer Prevention
6 • Medical Answer Book™ 2014 - 2015
Center – 3275 Market Place Blvd., #250, Cumming – 770-389-9116 – dermskincancerprevention.com • Georgia Dermatology Center – 1505 Northside Blvd., #1500, Cumming – 770-781-5077 – dadermctr.com • North Atlanta Dermatology - Suwanee Office, 3370 Paddocks Pkwy. Suwanee, GA 30024 - 770-814-8222 naderm.com
– 1505 Northside Blvd., Cumming – 770-888-3358 – awhg.org • North Pointe OB/GYN 1800 Northside Forsyth Dr. Suite 350 Cumming, GA 30041 770-886-3555 81 Northside Dawson Drive Suite 305 Dawsonville, GA 30534 770-886-3555 npobgyn.com
Diabetes • North Georgia Diabetes 1505 Northside Forsyth Drive, Cumming 770-886-3842
Oncologists • Atlanta Cancer Care 1505 Northside Blvd. #4600, Cumming 770-205-5292 atlantacancercare.com
Family Medicine • Campbell Family Medicine 410 Peachtree Pkwy, Cumming 678-474-4742 campbellfamilymedicine.com • Cumming Family Medicine 765 Lanier 400 Parkway, Cumming 770-205-1294 cummingfamilymedicine.com • Lanier Family Healthcare 5830 Bond St., #200, Cumming 770-205-5518 lfhllc.com • Morrow Family Health 1400 Northside Forsyth Drive Suite 200 770-781-8004 morrowfammed.com Gastroenterologists • Digestive Care Physicians 1505 Northside Blvd, Suite 2850 Cumming, GA 30041 770-227-2222 digestivecarephysicians.com Hospitals • Northside Hospital, 1200 Northside Forsyth Dr, Cumming, GA 30041 770844-3200 • Northeast Georgia Medical Center 743 Spring Street Gainesville, GA 30501 770-219-9000 nghs.com Internal Medicine • Comprehensive Internal Medicine – 3890 Johns Creek Parkway, Suwanee – 770-622-9002 – cimedicine.com • Internal Medicine of Johns Creek – 3340 Paddocks Parkway, Suwanee 678-474-9633 - imajohnscreek.com • Johns Creek Primary Care Physicians – 4365 Johns Creek Parkway, Ste. 400, Suwanee – 678-957-1910 – johnscreekprimarycare.com OB/GYN • Alpharetta Women’s Health Group
Orthodontics • Hiser Orthodontics 285 Elm Street Suite 101, Cumming 770-888-7798 hiserortho.com • Walton Orthodontics 2609 Peachtree Pkwy Suite C, Suwanee 770-663-0955 drwalton.com Ophthalmologists • Milan Eye Center 970 Sanders Rd Suite 100 Cumming, Ga 30041 678-787-4575 milaneyecenter.com • North Georgia Eye Clinic 1230 Bald Ridge Marina Rd. Suite 100 Cumming, GA 30041 (770) 292-1999 northgeorgiaeyeclinic.com Pediatricians • Alpharetta Pediatrics – 102 Pilgrim Village Drive #300, Cumming – 678947-4588 – alpharettapediatricsonline. com • Cumming Pediatric Group PC – 1505 Northside Forsyth Drive #3600, Cumming – 770-888-8888 – cummingpediatricgroup.net • Georgetown Pediatrics 416 Pirkle Ferry Rd Suite J300 Cumming, GA 30040 georgetownpediatrics.com • Lakeside Pediatrics – 204 Canton Road, Cumming – 770-886-5437 • Rainbow Pediatric Clinic – 1670 Buford Highway, Cumming – 770-781-1606 – rainbowpedclinic.com • Roswell Pediatric Center – 110 North Corners Parkway #100, Cumming – 770-888-2882 – roswellpediatrics.com • Vickery Pediatrics – 410 Peachtree Parkway #4260, Cumming – 678-9902501 – vickerypeds.com
See FORSYTH, Page 8
Medical Answer Book™ 2014 - 2015 • 7
Forsyth:
Continued from Page 6 Physical Therapy • Champion Physical Therapy 540 Lake Center Pkwy Suite 107, Cumming 770-205-3939 champtionpt.net Senior Care • Skylark Senior Care – 4265 Johns Creek Parkway, Johns Creek – 770476-8400 – skylarkseniorcare.com Senior Centers • Forsyth County Senior Center – 2 TriCounty Plaza, Cumming – 770-8447500 Senior Living
• Belmont Village – 4315 Johns Creek Parkway, Suwanee – 770-813-9505-johnscreek. belmontvillage.com • Cumming Manor – 2775 Castleberry Road, Cumming – 770-781-2300 • Laurel Creek Manor - 7955 Majors Road, Cumming - (678) 456-8363 laurelcreekmanorcommunity.com • The Oaks Senior Living Multiple Locations 5610 Hampton Park Drive Cumming, GA 30041 678-965-5700 255 Elm Street Cumming, GA 30040 770-889-7889 3875 Post Road, Cumming - (770) 886-2630 oaksseniorliving.com • Villas at Canterfield - 745 Atlanta Road, Cumming - (770) 888-4929 thevillasatcanterfield.com • Willow Lake Senior Living 4855 Willow Lake Lane - Cumming, GA 30041 - 770-887-7000 -
willowlakeseniorliving.com Shelters/Outreach • Habitat for Humanity – 133 Samaritan Drive, Cumming – 770-886-4939 • Hightower Association Food Bank – 1120 Pilgrim Road, Cumming – 770205-2464 • IM In A Family Receiving Homes, Inc – 3482 Keith Bridge Road #126, Cumming – 770-889-7950 • The Place of Forsyth County – 2550 The Place Circle, Cumming – 770-8871098 – theplaceofforsyth.com Sleep Assistance • Fusion Sleep – 4265 Johns Creek Parkway, Suwanee – 678-990-3962 – fusionsleep.com Surgery Centers • Advanced Plastic Surgery Solutions – 6920 McGinnis Ferry Road, Suwanee – 678-205-8400 – advancedplasticsurgerysolutions.com
Urgent Cares • Northside Urgent Care and Family Medicine – 5610 Bethelview Road, Cumming – 70-205-2804 – northsideurgentcare.com • Primecare Urgent Care – 1628 Market Place Blvd., Cumming – 770-292-9982 Vein Specialists • North Georgia Vein Institute 4415 Front Nine Drive, Suite 600, Cumming, GA 30041 6002 Hwy 53, Suite 100, Dawsonville, GA, 30534 678-513-1600 northgeorgiavein.com • Vein Solutions 1505 Northside Blvd., Cumming 678-513-4275 veinsolutions.com YMCA • Cumming – 6050 Y St., Cumming – 770-888-2788 - ymca.net
West of 400 Medical & Seniors Guide Audiologists • Atlanta Hearing Aid Services - 10800 Alpharetta Hwy, Roswell - 770-9925353 - atlantahearing.com • Audiological Consultants of Atlanta, 875 Mansell Road, Suite B2, Roswell, GA 30076 678 461 6366, audioconsult.com • Northside Hearing - 1360 Upper Hembree Rd. Suite 201, Roswell - 770751-7437 - northsidehearingcenter. com • North Fulton ENT 2500 Hospital Boulevard Suite 450 Roswell, Ga. 30076 770-343-8675 northfultonent.com • Optimal Hearing – 600 Houze Way, Suite B-3, Roswell – 770-641-9087 – optimalhearing.com Child Services • Giving Children a Chance - 11805 Northfall Lane, Suite 803, Alpharetta – 770-255-1018 – gcacofgeorgia.com • Jacob’s Ladder - 407 Hardscrabble Road, Roswell - 770-998-1017 – jacobsladdercenter.com Chiropractic • Integrated Healthcare of Georgia 11800 Northfall Lane, Suite 1403 Alpharetta, Georgia 30009 ihcog.com Cosmetic Surgery • Premier Image Cosmetic and Laser Surgery - 10779 Alpharetta Hwy Suite 140, Roswell, GA 30076 770 645 4310 picosmeticsurgery.com Counseling • Winward Psychology - 4895 Winward Pkwy Suite 203, Alpharetta - 678-5665000 - winwardpsychology.com
Dentists • Alluring Cosmetic Dentistry – 800 Mansell Road, Roswell – 770-6429900 – alluringcosmeticdentistry.com • Bloor Family Dentistry - 2500 Hospital Blvd Suite 320, Roswell - 770-6634435 - webuildgreatsmiles.com • Crabapple Dental - 12670 Crabapple Rd. Suite 110, Alpharetta - 678-3794066 - crabappledental.com • DeMercy Dental - 10930 Crabapple Rd. Suite 140, Roswell - 770-641-8010 - demercydental.com • Dentistry at Milton - 980 Birmingham Rd. Suite 506, Milton - 678-990-3358 - dentistryatmilton.com • Good Dental Care - 910 Woodstock Rd. Suite 110, Roswell - 770-518-7475 - GoodDentalCare.com • Ivy Dentistry – 11775 Northfall Lane #107, Alpharetta – 770-619-2909 – ivydentistry.com • Milton Pediatric Dentistry - 980 Birmingham Rd. Suite 507, Milton 678-352-1033 - kidshappyteeth.com • Oral Surgery Associates & Dental Implant Centers - 10930 Crabapple Rd. Suite 160, Roswell - 678-781-0050 - georgia-oms.com • Roswell Family Dentist – 380 Market Place, Roswell – 770-998-6000 – roswellfamilydentistry.com • Roswell Pediatric Dentistry and Orthodontics – 10930 Crabapple Road, Roswell – 678-352-1090 – kidshappyteeth.com • The Martin Dental Center – 45 W. Crossville Road, Suite 505, Roswell – 770-993-7472 – themartindentalcenter.com • Dr. Michael Leach DDS– 4895 Windward Parkway, Suite 201, Alpharetta – 770-521-8855 – thekidstoothdoc.com • Dr. Scott Flemming DDS– 4895 Windward Parkway, Suite 100, Alpharetta – 770-475-4241 • Dr. Stuart Coe Dentistry - 11775 Pointe Place, Roswell - 770-475-3600 -
8 • Medical Answer Book™ 2014 - 2015
roswell-dentist.com • Windward Dental Care – 12850 Highway 9 North, #400, Alpharetta – 770-569-7580 – windwarddental.com Dermatologists • Goodman Dermatology – 2500 Hospital Blvd., #280, Roswell – 770754-0787 Family Health • Cash Family Health – 11285 Elkins Road, Roswell – 678-760-3800 • Complete Family Healthcare – 2520 Northwinds Parkway, #150, Alpharetta – 770-772-3500 • Family Eyecare of Roswell - 910 Holcomb Bridge Rd. Suite 100, Roswell - 770-992-6789 FamilyEyecareofRoswell.com • Longevity Health Center - 1745 Woodstock Rd, Roswell - 770-6424646 - longevityhealthcenter.com • Northside Primary Care - 11800 Northfall Lane #1401, Alpharetta – 678-867-0904 - draazrumsyed.com • Perimeter Medical Wellness - 1250 Upper Hembree Rd., Suite B, Roswell, GA 30076 - 770-274-9511 PerimeterMedicalWellness.com Gastroenterologists • Atlanta Gastroenterology, Offices in Roswell, Alpharetta, Johns Creek & Cumming - 866-468-6242 atlantagastro.com Hospitals • North Fulton Regional Hospital – 3000 Hospital Blvd., Roswell – 770-751-2536 – nfultonhospital.com • Piedmont Hospital – 104 Prominence Point Parkway #104, Canton – 770704-6988 – piedmont.org • St.Joseph’s Hospital of Atlanta – 1400 Hembree Road, Roswell – 678-3194736 – stjosephsatlanta.org
Internal medicine • Eagle Medical Center - 804 Bombay Lane, Roswell - 770-754-9880 myeaglemedicalcenter.com • Elite Care Internal Medicine - 1240 Upper Hembree Road, Suite D, Roswell - 770-667-0810 – elitecareim.com • Spectrum Internal Medicine – 401 South Main Street, Alpharetta – 678319-9901 – spectruminternalmed.com OB/GYN • Alpharetta Women’s Specialists – 1360 Upper Hembree Road, Suite 101, Roswell – 770-817-1970 – awsobgyn. com • Isis – 401 South Main Street, Suite B-8, Alpharetta – 770-521-2229 – isisobgyn.com • Providence Women’s Healthcare – 1300 Upper Hembree Road, Roswell – 770-6770-6170 – providencewomenshealthcare.com Oncologists • Atlanta Cancer Care 1357 Hembree Road Suite 230, Roswell 770-740-9664 atlantacancercare.com Orthodontics • Dr. Jeffery Jordan, DMD, MSD, PC 4205 North Point Pkwy Alpharetta, GA 30022 770-751-1240 jwjordan.com Pediatricians • Children’s Special Services, LLC - 7501 Auden Trail, Atlanta - 770-394-9791 childrens-services.com • Children’s Therapy Works – 11940 Alpharetta Highway #150, Alpharetta – 770-754-0085 –
See WEST, Page 10
WHEN IT’S URGENT CARE,
YOU CAN STILL GET
CHILDREN’S CARE. Minor illnesses and injuries can happen at any time. When they do, you don’t have to settle for anything less than our doctors and nurses, who are specially trained to care for your child. For Urgent Care Center wait times,* text CHOA to 4ER411 (437411) or visit choa.org/wait.
* Wait times are updated every 15 minutes and are estimates based on the average time it takes for a patient to be placed in an exam room. Standard messaging fees will apply for texting. ©2014 Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta, Inc. All rights reserved.
CHILDREN’S AT FORSYTH – 410 PEACHTREE PKWY., CUMMING CHILDREN’S AT NORTH POINT – 3795 MANSELL ROAD, ALPHARETTA Medical Answer Book™ 2014 - 2015 • 9
West:
Continued from Page 8 childrenstherapyworks.com • Main Street Internal Medicine and Pediatrics – 401 South Main St. #C5, Alpharetta – 678-205-2437 – msimap. com • North Fulton Pediatrics – 1285 Hembree Road, #100, Roswell – 770442-1050 • Roswell Pediatric Center, PC - 12385 Crabapple Rd. Suite 100, Alpharetta 770-343-9900 - roswellpediatrics.com Podiatry • Village Podiatry Centers Dr. Mitchell Hilsen, DPM 1350 Upper Hembree Road Ste 100 Roswell, GA 30076 770-663-8011 villagepodiatrycenters.com Prosthetists • Custom Ocular Prosthetics – 401 S. Main St. #B6, Alpharetta – 770-6671166 • Pinnacle Prosthetics – 80 Mill St., Roswell – 770-998-5547 Senior Care • Advantage Senior Care – 404-3126423 – advantageseniorcareinc.com • Cara Vita Home Care - 648 Mimosa Blvd, Roswell - 770-643-1712 caravitahomecare.com • CareMinders Home Care - 178 South Main Street, Suite 310, Alpharetta, GA 30009 – 770-973-6400 - careminders. com • Comfort Keepers – 2475 Northwinds Parkway, Suite 200, Alpharetta – 770753-6457 • Golden Home Services – 11205
Alpharetta Highway, STE F5, Roswell – 678-242-0084 • Life Balance Home Care - 290 S. Main Street, Ste. 500 Alpharetta, GA 30009 - 770-663-4100 lifebalancehomecare.com • Seen Your Way - 1218 W. Paces Ferry, Suite 204, Atlanta - 404-981-2273 seenyourway.com • Senior Helpers - 294 S Main St # 300 - Alpharetta - (770) 442-2154 – seniorhelpers.com • Visiting Angels - 11775 Northfall Lane Suite 207, Alpharetta - (678) 277-9930 - visitingangels.com/alpharetta Senior Centers • Alpharetta Senior Center - 13450 Cogburn Road, Alpharetta - (678) 297-6140 • Crabapple Senior center - 12624 Broadwell Road, Alpharetta - (770) 751-9397 • Roswell Senior Center - 1250 Warsaw Road, Roswell - (770) 640-1583 • Senior Living Arbor Terrace - 12200 Crabapple Road, Alpharetta - (678) 894-7803 at-crabapple.com • Benton House - 762 N. Main St., Alpharetta- 678-319-3000 bentonhouse.com • Chambrel at Roswell - 1000 Applewood Drive, Roswell - (770) 5944600 - brookdaleliving.com/chambrelat-roswell • Churchill Manor - 143 Mayfield Road, Alpharetta - (770) 667-6078 – churchillmanor.net • Cottonwood Estates - 255 Vaughn Drive, Alpharetta - 678-999-6810 seniorlivinginstyle.com • Crabapple Hall - 200 Pine Valley Drive, Alpharetta - (770) 664-9264 crabapplehall.com • Dogwood Forest - 253 North Main Street, Alpharetta - (770) 410-9169 -
dogwoodforestalpharetta.com • Elmcroft of Roswell - 400 Marietta Highway, Roswell - (770) 650-0555 elmcroftal.com • Freedom Pointe Roswell - 75 Magnolia Street, Roswell - (770) 645-1900 brookdaleliving.com • Hearthstone Assisted Living - 350 Market Place, Roswell - (770) 552-1091 • Manor on the Square - 550 Barrington Drive, Roswell - (770) 993-8040 manoronthesquare.net • Merrill Gardens at Roswell - 655 Mansell Road, Roswell - (678) 8947820 - merrillgardens.com/assisted_ living • Parc Alpharetta - 1000 Fanfare Way, Alpharetta - (770) 346-9011 watertonresidential.com • Roswell Senior Living - 11725 Pointe Place, Roswell 770-450-4875 pacificaroswell.com • Somerby of Alpharetta - 100 Somerby Drive, Alpharetta - (770) 650-9577 somerbyofalpharetta.com • The Veranda of Roswell - 11725 Pointe Place, Roswell - (770) 521-9913 verandaroswell.com • Hembree Senior Care Center • 1130 Upper Hembree Road • Roswell, GA 30076, 678-485-7362 Shelters/Outreach • Find a way home – 89 Grove Way, Suite 101, Roswell – 678-381-2000 – findawayhome.org • Fulton Families Matter – 929 Zion Circle, Roswell – 770-993-0207 • Habitat for Humanity – 814 Mimosa Blvd., Roswell – 770-587-9679 • Homestretch – 89 Grove Way, Roswell – 770-642-9185 – homestretch.org • Lost Ones, Inc – 1158 Canton St., Roswell – 770-993-0055 • North Fulton Community Charities - 11270 Elkins Rd., Roswell, 770-640-
0399, nfcchelp.org • The Drake House – 10500 Clara Drive, Roswell – 770-587-4712 – thedrakehouse.org Surgery Centers • Byrd Aesthetic - 11050 Crabapple Rd, Roswell - 770-587-1711 byrdaesthetic.com • High Field Open MRI - 10630 Alpharetta Highway, Roswell - 770649-8500 - highfieldopenmri.com • Grady Health System – 1143 Alpharetta St., Roswell – 404-616-1550 – gradyhealth.org Urgent Cares • American Family Care - 12994 Highway 9 N, Alpharetta - 678-2058155 - americanfamilycare.com • Bethany Bend Urgent Care – 13081 Highway 9 North, Alpharetta – 678-6713890 – bethanybendurgentcare.com • Doctors Express – 12315 Crabapple Road Suite 108, Alpharetta – 678-7629292 – doctorsexpressalpharetta.com • Georgia Urgent Care – 1360 Upper Hembree Road #100, Roswell – 678393-6482 – georgiaurgentcare.com • MedPost Urgent Care - 5655 Atlanta Hwy., Alpharetta Ga., 30004 - 770343-6364 - medpost.com • Roswell Urgent Care Center – 660 W. Crossville Road #110, Roswell – 678436-5266 – roswellurgentcare.com • SmartCare - 540 East Crossville Rd. Suite 210, Roswell -770-510-1850 smartcareuc.com • Urgent Care of Atlanta – 5304 Windward Parkway, Alpharetta – 770777-2062 – urgentcareatlanta.com Urologists • Georgia Urology, Multiple Atlanta Area Locations - 888-819-7115 gaurology. com
East of 400 Medical & Seniors Guide Audiologists • Doctors’ Hearing Center 11180 State Bridge Road, Suite 207 Johns Creek, GA 30022 doctorshearingcenterga.com 770-676-7208 • Johns Creek Audiology 4045 Johns Creek Parkway, Suite B Suwanee, GA 30024 johnscreekaudiology.com 770-814-1260 Chiropractic • Atlanta Spine and Sport - 3719 Old Alabama Rd Suite 400-A, Alpharetta 678-620-3668 - atlantaspineandsport. com • Dr. James Locher - 9850 Nesbit Ferry Rd. Suite 6, Johns Creek, GA 30022 770 641 9295 • Renew Health Medical Center 11550 Jones Bridge Rd #4, Alpharetta, GA 30022 678-792-3708 renewforheath.com • Willis Chiropractic
317 N. Main St. Alpharetta, Ga 30009 770-740-8740 willischiropractic.com Cosmetic Surgery • The Swan Center, 4165 Old Milton Parkway, Suite 200 East, Alpharetta, GA 30005 770 667 0904 swancenteratlanta.com Counseling • Nancy Shertok, MSW, LCSW 162 Prospect Place, Alpharetta 678-929-5905 Psycotherapy123.com Dentists • Alpharetta Children’s Dentistry and OrthodonticS, 4205 North Point Pkwy, Alpharetta, GA 30022 770 664 4936 Alpharettachildrensdentistry.com • Atlanta Dental Spa – 1875 Old Alabama Road, Suite 130, Roswell –
10 • Medical Answer Book™ 2014 - 2015
770-998-3838 – atlantadentalspa.com • Center for Advanced Dentistry 6916 McGinnis Ferry Road, Suite 500 Suwanee, GA 30024 HiTechSmiles.com 678-894-7926 • Children’s Dental Zone – 3719 Old Alabama Road #400, Alpharetta – 770-777-1222 – childrensdentalzone. com • Christy Haffner DMD Pediatric Dentistry – 3300 Old Milton Parkway, Alpharetta – 770-777-9400 – drchristyhaffner.com • Dent1st Dental Care – 9775 Medlock Bridge Road #I, Johns Creek – 770476-9595 – dentfirst.com • Esthetic Dental Solutions – 2650 Holcomb Bridge Road, Alpharetta - 678-352-1333 – estheticdentalsolutions.com • FAGD Family Dental Care - 3005 Old Alabama Rd Suite 320, Alpharetta 770-475-7551 - sabledds.com • Golsen Family Dentistry – 3400 Old Milton Parkway, Alpharetta – 770-667-
0669 – golden.com • Grady Dental Care – 10710 Medlock Bridge Road, Johns Creek – 678-9570770 – gradydentalcare.com • Imagix Dental – 11125 Jones Bridge Road, Ste 200, Alpharetta – 770-5960529 • Johns Creek Dental Care 3630 Peachtree Parkway, Suite 311 Suwanee, GA 30024 770-495-9575 johnscreekdental.com • Johns Creek Dental Creations – 9590 Medlock Bridge Road #B, Johns Creek – 770-623-1427 – briangboothyp.com • Johns Creek Dental Excellence – 9925 Haynes Bridge Road #700, Johns Creek – 770-663-0333 • Jones Bridge Dental Care – 11925 Jones Bridge Road #200, Alpharetta – 770-772-0606 – jbdentalcare.com • Mint 32 – 3005 Royal Blvd. South #150, Alpharetta – 770-417-0100 – mint32.com
See EAST Page 12
Specialists in the Detection and Treatment of Digestive Diseases, Hepatitis and Colon Cancer
Almost every adult will suffer from digestive issues during their lifetime. Whether it's a touch of indigestion or abdominal pain that won't subside, you deserve the best possible care. The specialists at Atlanta Gastroenterology Associates are experts in colon cancer screenings and evaluating and treating every type of digestive disorder, including: • Ulcerative Colitis • Crohn’s Disease • Constipation • Diarrhea • Acid Reflux • Heartburn
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E. Chris Cameron, M.D. Alpharetta | Cumming Dawsonville | Roswell
Robert M. Eisenband, M.D. Emory Saint Joseph’s Roswell
Luis M. Galvez, M.D. Emory Saint Joseph’s Roswell
Sagar S. Garud, M.D. Cumming | Roswell
Yasmin K. Karim, M.D. Alpharetta | Cumming Roswell
Hetal A. Karsan, M.D. Alpharetta Emory Saint Joseph’s
Kamil Obideen, M.D. Alpharetta | Cumming Roswell
Girish Poré, M.D. Alpharetta | Johns Creek
Our Pediatric and Adolescent Division is Now Open Located Next to Children’s Hospital of Atlanta at Scottish Rite
Alpharetta 3400 Old Milton Parkway Building A, Suite 340 678.987.1485
Cumming 1505 Northside Boulevard Suite 2000 770.781.4010
Johns Creek 3890 Johns Creek Parkway Suite 250 678.775.0293
Roswell 1340 Upper Hembree Road Suite A 770.569.0777
www.atlantagastro.com | 1.866.GO.TO.AGA [468.6242] AGA is a participating provider for Medicare, Medicaid and most healthcare plans offered in Georgia.
Medical Answer Book™ 2014 - 2015 • 11
East:
Continued from Page 10 • Muccioli Dental - 6300 Hospital Pkwy Suite 275, Johns Creek - 678-3899955 - mdentalsmiles.com • North Bridge Dental – 10955 Jones Bridge Road #129, Alpharetta – 678319-0210 – wizforteeth.com • Old Milton Dental – 4165 Old Milton Parkway #190, Alpharetta – 678-6240370 – oldmiltondental.com • Sandra Vargas Dental Care – 5805 State Bridge Road, Suite L, Duluth – 678-474-4917 – smilegeorgia.com • Walls & Hendricks – 10700 Medlock Bridge Road, Johns Creek – 770-8130079 – shawnwallsdds.com • PolkaDot Pediatric Dentistry - 4190 Old Milton Pkwy Suit 2K, Alpharetta - 678389-6669 - polkadotdental.com Dermatologists • Atlanta Dermatology, Vein and Research Center – 77800 Atlantis Place, Alpharetta – 770-360-8881 – dermandvein.com • Dermatology Center of Atlanta – 9900 Medlock Bridge Road, Johns Creek – 770-497-0699 – dermatology-atlanta. com • Johns Creek Dermatology and Family Medicine – 6300 Hospital Parkway, Duluth – 770-771-6591 – johnscreekdermatology.com • North Atlanta Dermatology – 6610 McGinnis Ferry Road #200, Johns Creek – 770-814-8222 – naderm.com • The Fountain Laser Hair Removal - 4245 Johns Creek Pkwy Suite E, Suwanee - 770-623-3334 thefountainlaser.com Family Heath • Alpharetta Family Practice – 3400 Old Milton Parkway, Ste 585, Alpharetta – 770-475-3200 • Center for Advanced Medicine - 10700 Medlock Bridge Road, Suite 207, Johns Creek, GA 30097 700-551-2730, advanced-med.com • North Chattahoochee Family Physicians – 11459 Johns Creek Parkway, Johns Creek – 770-497-1555 – ncfpinfo.com • North Fulton Primary Care – 3400 Old Milton Parkway, Suite C270, Alpharetta – 770-442-1911 – napc.com • Physicians Immediate Med, 10905 Haynes Bridge Rd., Alpharetta, GA 30022 770 505 3000 physiciansimmediatemed.com • Renew Health Medical Center - 11550 Jones Bridge Rd #4, Alpharetta - 678297-0901 - renewforhealth.com • Dr. Leslie S. Gaskill, MD - 6290 Abbotts Bridge Rd. Bldg 200 Suite 201, Johns Creek - 770-495-9995 drlesliegaskill.com Gastroenterologists • Advanced Gastroenterology Associates 4275 Johns Creek Pkwy #A Suwanee 678-475-1606 advgastro.com
• Atlanta Gastroenterology Offices in Roswell, Alpharetta, Johns Creek & Cumming 866-468-6242 atlantagastro.com • Digestive Care Physicians 6300 Hospital Pkwy, Suite 450 Johns Creek, GA 30097 770-227-2222 digestivecarephysicians.com Hospitals • Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta – 3795 Mansell Road, Alpharetta – 404785-6880 – choa.com • Emory Johns Creek Hospital – 6325 Hospital Parkway, Johns Creek – 678474-7000 – emoryjohnscreek.com • Gwinnett Medical Center – 3620 Howell Ferry Road, Duluth – 678-3126800 – gwinnettmedicalcenter.com • Gwinnett Medical Center 1000 Medical Center Blvd, Lawrenceville, GA 30046 678 312-1000 • Northside Hospital – 3400 Old Milton Parkway, Alpharetta – 770-667-4000 – northside.com • Regency Hospital – 11175 Cicero Drive, Alpharetta – 770-772-4345 – regencyhospital.com Imaging Centers • Johns Creek Diagnostic Center 6920 McGinnis Ferry Rd. Suite 300, Suwanee - 678-835-2299 - jcdcinfo. com Internal Medicine • Alpha Medical Centre, 3000 Old Alabama Rd. Ste 128-A, Johns Creek, GA 30022 770 821 1940 Laser Therapy • Back In The Game Laser Therapy, 4310 Johns Creek Parkway, Suite 130, Suwanee, GA 30024 770-545-6354 backinthegamelaser.com Medical Supply • Heavenly Wheels - 6375 McGinnis Ferry Rd., Ste. 101, Johns Creek, GA 30005 - 888-792-0301, Ext. 3 heavenlywheels.com • Mobility Express – 1580 Holcomb Bridge Rd. Suite 3, Roswell – 770-9989984 – mobility4all.com OB/GYN • Chattahoochee Gynecology – 6610 McGinnis Ferry Road, Johns Creek – 770-813-8742 • Modern OB/GYN – 10692 Medlock Bridge Rd., Johns Creek 30097 – 404-446-2496 – reyesobgyn.com Ophthalmologists • Milan Eye Center 6300 Hospital Pkwy Suite 325 Johns Creek, Ga 30097 678-787-4575 milaneyecenter.com Pediatricians • Children’s Medical Group – 6918
12 • Medical Answer Book™ 2014 - 2015
McGinnis Ferry Road, Suwanee – 770622-5758 – cmg-pc.com • Dunwoody Pediatrics – 3300 Old Milton Parkway #200, Alpharetta – 770-664-9299 – dunwoodypediatrics. com • Georgetown Pediatrics 6300 Hospital Parkway Suite 125 Johns Creek, GA 30097 3400A Old Milton Pkwy Suite 510 Alpharetta, GA 30005 georgetownpediatrics.com • North Point Pediatrics – 11975 Morris Road #210, Alpharetta – 770-6640088 – northpointpediatrics.com • Pediatrics and Genetic – 3586 Old Milton Parkway, Alpharetta – 770-3460132 – pediatricsgenetics.com • Pediatric Place – 9570 Nesbit Ferry Road #201, Alpharetta – 770-6408119 – thepediatricplace.com • Pediatric Physicians PC – 1111 Alderman Drive, Alpharetta – 678-5271555 – pediatricphysicianspc.com • Roswell Pediatric Center – 3400 Old Milton Parkway #C545, Alpharetta – 770-751-0800 – roswellpediatrics.com Plastic Surgery • Robinson Facial Plastic Surgery 3400 Old Milton Parkway Alpharetta, Ga 30005 855-337-3657 robinsonfps.com Senior Care • Cambridge Health Home Care - 3060 Royal Blvd South #155, Alpharetta (404) 935-5900 - cambridgehealth.org • Dependable Homecare Services - 5510 Commons Lane, Johns Creek - (770) 881-7101 - dependablehomecare.net • Easy Living Service, Inc – 120 Prospect Place, Alpharetta – 770-442-8664 Senior Living • Benton House - 5050 Kimball Bridge Road, Johns Creek - (770) 754-5446 bentonhouse.com • Cambridge Memory Care - 4040 Webb Bridge Road, Alpharetta - (678) 266-4065 - cambridgeassistedliving. org • Dogwood Forest – 4125 North Point Parkway, Alpharetta – 678-366-7700 – dogwoodforestnorthpoint.com • Eden Brook - 4125 N Point Pkwy, Alpharetta - (678) 366-7700 sunriseseniorliving.com • Gardens of Roswell - 9212 Nesbit Ferry Road, Alpharetta - (770) 992-0505 • Ivy Hall Assisted Living - 5690 State Bridge Road, Alpharetta - (770) 8140114 • Ivy Hall at St. Ives - 5835 Medlock Bridge Parkway, Alpharetta - (770) 476-1777 • Parc @ Duluth – 3315 Peachtree Industrial Blvd., Duluth – 770-6226880 – duluth.parccommunities.com • Sunrise of Ivey Ridge - 2950 Old Alabama Road, Alpharetta - (770) 475-6622 - sunriseiveyridge.com • Sunrise of Johns Creek - 11405 Medlock Bridge Road, Johns Creek (770) 814-0505 - sunrisejohnscreek. com
• Tapestry House – 2725 Holcomb Bridge Road, Alpharetta – (770)-6490808 – tapestryhouseassistedliving. com • Surgery Centers • North Fulton Health Center – 3155 Royal Drive # 125, Alpharetta – 404332-1958 • Hearthside Johns Creek - 11340 Medlock Bridge Rd, Johns Creek - 770418-0555 - hearthsidejohnscreek.com Specialty • Aesthetic Specialty Centre – 1825 Old Alabama Road, Suite 201, Roswell – 770-393-9000 – aestheticspecialtycentre.com Urgent Cares • Atlanta Cancer Care – 3400 Old Milton Parkway, Alpharetta – 770-7701314 – atlantacancercare.com • LiveOn Health Center - 6385 McGinnis Ferry Rd., Suite 202, Johns Creek, GA 30005 770-255-4226, liveoncenter.com • Northside Urgent Care and Family Medicine – 11180 State Bridge Road, Alpharetta – 770-754-0788 – northsideurgentcare.com • Physician’s Express Care - 11705 Jones Bridge Rd Suit A 201, Johns Creek 770-772-1830 - GetExpressCare.com • Reagan Medical Center – 10160 Medlock Bridge Road, Johns Creek – 678-387-1600 – reaganmedical.com • Sugerloaf Medical PC – 1300 Peachtree Industrial Blvd., Suwanee – 770-831-3018 – sugarloafmedical.com • Wellstreet Urgent Care Alpharetta 10945 State Bridge Rd. #501 - 404996-0194 - wellstreet.com • Wellstreet Urgent Care Johns Creek 3005 Old Alabama Rd. #6000, Johns Creek - 404-996-0198 - wellstreet. com Urologists • Georgia Urology, Multiple Atlanta Area Locations 888-819-7115 gaurology.com • South Atlanta Urology 5400 Laurel Springs Parkway #1403 Suwanee 678-845-0390 Vein Specialists • Atlanta Vein Specialists 4060 Johns Creek Parkway, Johns Creek 678-315-3511 atlveins.com • VeinInnovations 4255 Johns Creek Pkwy, Suite D Suwanee, GA 30024 678-731-9815 5673 Peachtree Dunwoody Rd, Suite 340 Atlanta, GA 30342 678-731-9815 YMCA • Alpharetta – 3655 Preston Ridge Road, Alpharetta – 770-664-1220 - ymca.net
Hospital Profiles
What hospital is right for you? We profile the best hospitals in the area looking at areas of specialty, number of beds, locations and more.
Northeast Georgia Medical Center Number of beds: 557 Number of doctors: More than 550 Areas of specialty: Heart & Vascular, Minimally Invasive Surgery, Joint Replacement, Orthopedics, Neurosciences, Women & Children’s Services, Cancer Services, Bariatric Weight Loss Serving the community since: 1951 Future expansions: Building Northeast Georgia Medical Center Braselton in south Hall County; the 100-bed hospital is scheduled to open in Spring 2015. The No.1 message to the community: Northeast Georgia Medical Center is Georgia’s #1 Hospital (CareChex) and one of the nation’s 100 Top Hospitals (Truven Health Analytics) again for 2014. So the next time you or a loved one need health care, make sure your decision is based on quality – not just convenience – and consider Northeast Georgia Medical Center. Other CareChex Awards for 2014: • Georgia’s #1 Surgery Hospital • Georgia’s #1 Heart Hospital • Georgia’s #1 Women’s Hospital
• Georgia’s #1 Pulmonary Hospital • Georgia’s #1 Neurology Hospital for Patient Safety • #6 in the Nation for Medical Care What the hospital is best known for: NGMC is rated Georgia’s #1 Heart Hospital nine years in a row (2006 – 2014). In addition to providing everything from advanced diagnosis of heart disease to heart surgery and interventional procedures like stents, NGMC continues to add the latest treatment options. NGMC is the only hospital in Georgia offering Robotic Angioplasty and performing minimally invasive heart valve reconstructions. NGMC also participates in a clinical trial of eSVS Mesh – a new technology that could change the way heart bypass surgery has been done since the 1960’s. Other locations: Medical Plaza 400 is a multispecialty medical office building, located on GA-400, that’s home to an Urgent Care center; an Imaging Center with in-house MRI and CT staffed by an on-site radiologist; and several physician specialties including Cardiology, Sports Medicine, Neurology and Urology. More information: • Find a Physician – nghs. com/doctors
• Heart Services – nghs. com/heart • Medical Plaza 400 – nghs.com/400 • NGMC Braselton – nghs.
com/braselton • Awards – nghs.com/ awards Northeast Georgia
Medical Center 743 Spring Street NE Gainesville, GA 30501 770-219-3840 www.nghs.com
Medical Answer Book™ 2014 - 2015 • 13
North Fulton Hospital Number of Beds: 202 Number of Doctors: 400 Areas of Specialty: Accredited Community Cancer Center, Emergency Services, Neurosciences, Pain and Spine Center, Women’s Health Services, Orthopeadics, Inpatient Rehabilitation, Surgical Services, Gastroenterology, Trauma, Cardiology, Stroke Center, Intensive Care/ Critical Care, Women’s Oncology Recent and Future Expansion: In Fall 2013, North Fulton Hospital (NFH) opened the Roswell Imaging Diagnostic Cardiovascular Center. The $3 million investment brought the first cardiology practice ever located on the hospital campus (North Fulton Cardiovascular Medicine), a new interventional cardiac cath lab, and an outpatient cardiology diagnostic center where patients can obtain outpatient cardiac testing such as echos and nuclear medicine studies. Along with the addition of new technologies and services for cardiology patients, the hospital opened a Wound Care and Hyperbarics center in January of 2014. NFH Wound Care & Hyperbarics offers a full range of therapies for wound treatment including conventional and specialty dressings, debridement,
compression therapy, and hyperbaric oxygen therapy. The Spring of 2014 also saw the addition of New Vision™ services at NFH. New Vision™ provides a comfortable environment where compassion, privacy, and safety come first during the critical withdrawal phase to effectively provide the clarity and strength a person afflicted by addiction needs to start their long-term recovery plan. NFH expanded its surgical services by investing in the da Vinci Surgical System and adding it to the technologies available to surgeons in its operating rooms. With the recent addition of the da Vinci Surgical System to its robotic surgery capabilities, North Fulton Hospital now offers patients even more surgical options, including virtually scarless single site surgery procedures. Check Up For Chicks, NFH’s breast program, has also seen an expansion this year. With the addition of gynecologic oncology services, Check Up For Chicks is now a complete women’s oncology program, providing a team of physicians, nurses, and other staff members to walk with patients through recovery, providing access to some of the most advanced diagnostics and treatments available. No. 1 Message to the Community:
14 • Medical Answer Book™ 2014 - 2015
For 30 years, North Fulton Hospital (NFH) has been serving North Fulton County and surrounding counties through its team of more than 800 employees, 400 doctors, and 200 volunteers. NFH has grown with the community and for the community, and is deeply committed to providing the very highest level of expertise, safety, and compassion to our patients and their families. How the Hospital is Best Known: North Fulton Hospital is committed to providing each and every patient with quality care – but it’s not just a pledge. It’s a dedication that’s been proven time and again, not only by the great personal feedback received from patients and their families, but by the recognition of several national and state accrediting agencies and third party assessment organizations: • American College of Surgeons Commission on Cancer: Community Hospital Cancer Program Accreditation Award with Commendations • National Consortium of Breast Centers: Certified Quality Breast Center of Excellence • Leapfrog Group: Hospital Safety Score – “A” • Joint Commission: Advance Primary Stroke Certification • Joint Commission: Top Performer on Key Quality Measures • Joint Commission: Hospital Ac-
creditation • American Heart Association Get with the Guidelines • Achievement Awards: Gold Plus for Heart Failure and Gold Plus for Stroke Care • United Health Premium Specialty Center designation for Surgical Spine • Blue Cross/Blue Shield Center of Excellence for Spine Surgery • Aetna: Elective Delivery Infant Safety Recognition • American Academy of Cardiovascular and Pulmonary Rehabilitation Certification • American Association for Respiratory Care Quality Respiratory Care Recognition • Georgia Hospital Association Quality Honor Roll: Chairman Category • Institute for Healthcare Improvement 5 Million Lives Campaign participant and partner • American College of Radiology Accreditation for North Fulton Hospital Radiology: Magnetic Resonance • Imaging (MRI), Computated Tomography (CT), and Ultrasound; and for North Fulton Hospital Outpatient Imaging Center: Mammography, Computed Tomography (CT) and Ultrasound. *Provided by North Fulton Hospital
Medical Answer Book™ 2014 - 2015 • 15
Gwinnett Medical Center Number of beds: 553 (system wide) Number of doctors: More than 800 Hospital space (square footage):approximately 1.4 million sq ft between both campuses Annual Patients: 403,106 (ER discharges, surgical patients and outpatient visits) Areas of Specialty: • Bariatrics • Cardiology (PCI, open heart surgery and electrophysiology) • Imaging (screening and diagnostic) • Minimally Invasive Surgery (Robotic-assisted and Single Incision Laparoscopic Surgery) • Neuroscience • Orthopedics (Total Joint and Sports Medicine) • Women’s Services Serving the community since: 1946 The No. 1 message to the community: As the hospital most preferred for all health needs in Northeast Metro Atlanta1, Gwinnett Medical Center is an award-winningnot-for-profit healthcare network including two hospitals, Gwinnett Medical Center-Lawrenceville and Gwinnett Medical CenterDuluth, and various other support facilities. At GMC, we are transforming healthcare, and every facet of our
system is designed with the patient in mind. This transformation is evident through state, regional and national accolades including being repeatedly ranked in the top five percent in the nation for clinical quality. Our staff includes some of the country’s most renowned, welltrained and well-educated physicians, specialists and employees. Gwinnet Medical CenterDuluth: Gwinnett Medical Center–Duluth is the first alldigital hospital in north Atlanta serving Duluth, Johns Creek, Peachtree Corners, Suwanee and surrounding communities. GMC–Duluth features six floors, 81 beds and six family suites; a natural, healing environment to enhance patient comfort, restaurant-style room service, patient-directed visitation program and other hotel-like amenities. Specialty care includes the Concussion Institute, Center for Orthopedics, Glancy Rehabilitation Center, Gwinnett Sports Rehab, Center for Weight Management and a 24-hour Emergency Department. GMC-Duluth is also home to the state’s leading Sports Medicine program. The dedicated surgical team and rehabilitation specialists help athletes prevent injury, heal and manage pain. Gwinnett Medical CenterLawrenceville: As our flagship facility, GMC-Lawrenceville is a full-service
16 • Medical Answer Book™ 2014 - 2015
hospital that features the Strickland Heart Center for total cardiac care, from PCI (stenting and angioplasty) to electrophysiology (EP) to open heart surgery to cardiac rehabilitation. In addition, GMC-Lawrenceville offers comprehensive medical specialty services and centers of excellence includingtheCenter for Orthopedics, Center for Neuroscience, Chest Pain Center and the Center for Sleep Disorders. The Lawrenceville campus is also the site of the Gwinnett Breast Center, Gwinnett DaySurgery, Gwinnett Women’s Pavilion, Gwinnett Extended Care Center,Wound Treatment Center, Pain Management Center and Gwinnett SportsRehab. Our 24-hour emergency care includes a Level II Trauma Center and Children’s Emergency Center.
What GMC best known for: The Concussion Institute at GMC-Duluth is the first comprehensive concussion education, prevention, treatment and management program in the Southeast. The Strickland Heart Center is home to Gwinnett’s first open heart surgery program. Gwinnett Medical Center is the first healthcare system in Georgia to have a fully accredited continuum of acute stroke care. The Center for Weight Management at GMCDuluth is Gwinnett’s only comprehensive bariatric program, and is accredited as a Level 1 accredited bariatric center. Our Gwinnett Breast Center program, which offers individualized care with a patient-centered approach offers screening imaging, same day surgical consults,
on-site scheduling and diagnostic imaging, and is accredited by the National Accreditation Program of Breast Centers. The Cancer Institute at Gwinnett Medical Center offers the area’s top oncologists, radiologists and cancer treatment experts, including patient navigators and a comprehensive program of cancer support services. • Gwinnett Medical Center–Duluth 3620 Howell Ferry Road Duluth, GA 30096 678-312-6800 • Gwinnett Medical CenterLawrenceville 1000 Medical Center Blvd. Lawrenceville, GA 30046 678-312-1000 1
Based on 2005-June 2014
National Research Corporation Market Insights Results
Professional Result s ... that give our patients something to smile about.
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4205 North Point Pkwy., Bldg. B, Alpharetta, GA 30022
North Point Pkwy.
GA 400
Old Milton Pkwy.
| (770) 751-1240 | www.JWJordan.com Medical Answer Book™ 2014 - 2015 • 17
Northside Hospital - Forsyth Number of beds: 217 Number of doctors: More than 2,200 Hospital space (square footage): Close to 1 million square feet Annual patients: (2012) 11,090 Admissions, 176,900 Outpatient Visits Areas of specialty: Maternity, emergency, diagnostic and interventional cardiology, minimally invasive and robotic surgery, breast care, neurosurgery, sleep disorder, spine care, imaging, plastic surgery, orthopedics, urology, GI services, cancer care and radiation therapy Serving since: 2002 Future expansion: Northside will soon complete construction on a fourth medical office building (MOB) on the Northside Hospital-Forsyth campus. Adjacent to the south side of the Women’s Center, the new four-story, 100,000-square-foot MOB will house a variety of physician specialties and practices to support the growing Women’s Services volume. The no. 1 message to the com-
munity: The Northside Hospital Healthcare System is an extensive network of state-of-the-art medical facilities, leading-edge technology and pioneering experience, and is dedicated to the health and wellness of the communities it serves. Atlanta’s “Most Preferred Hospital for Overall Healthcare Services,” as voted by consumers in the National Research Corporation’s Healthcare Market Guide, Northside is committed to balancing clinical excellence with high-quality, compassionate care. Comprising three acute care, state-of-the-art hospitals and more than 80 outpatient facilities across north metro Atlanta, the healthcare system offers a full range of medical services. How the hospital is best known: • A Leader in Women’s Healthcare. Northside Hospital is a leader in maternity and newborn services and has been recognized by J.D. Power and Associates for providing “An Outstanding Maternity Experience” for four consecutive years. In 2013, Northside Hospital-Forsyth celebrates the fifth anniversary of its Women’s Center. In that time, the Center’s growth has been exceptional, far surpassing all projections. More
18 • Medical Answer Book™ 2014 - 2015
than 10,200 babies have been born in the Women’s Center since it opened Aug. 6, 2008. • Excellence in Cardiac Care. The Northside Hospital Heart and Vascular Institute’s board-certified cardiologists and vascular surgeons have the highest level of expertise in diagnosing and treating disorders of the heart and circulatory system. In Forsyth, the hospital is an accredited Chest Pain Center and is designated a UnitedHealth Premium Cardiac Specialty Center for outstanding quality cardiac care services. Northside recently expanded its award-winning program to offer the latest in vascular surgery services. Available at Northside Hospital-Forsyth, Northside Vascular Surgery is one of the most skilled vascular programs in the Southeast and the only one in the nation equipped to treat high-risk patients with custom-modified endografts for thoracoabdominal aortic aneurysm. • The Cancer Institute. The Northside Hospital Cancer Institute is recognized nationally as a leader in cancer diagnosis, treatment and research. In fact, Northside is the only Atlanta hospital chosen to be a Community Cancer
Center by the National Cancer Institute. It’s this same experience and expertise that provides comprehensive cancer care services at Northside Hospital-Forsyth. In Forsyth and nearby, patients have access to a full array of services including radiation therapy, imaging, surgery and support services – regardless of their cancer diagnosis. • Pioneers in Surgery. Northside is a leader in providing stateof-the-art surgical services and offers the latest in minimally invasive techniques for bariatric surgery. • For 30 years, Northside has successfully guided patients through life changing weight loss surgery, from initial consultation to longterm follow-up. Northside was the first hospital in Georgia to introduce single-incision laparoscopic weight loss surgery, which is available at Northside Hospital-Forsyth, and recently added robot-assisted laparoscopy to its long list of advanced bariatric services. A team of dedicated, experienced physicians and staff ensures that Northside is poised to continue leading the charge against obesity for many more years to come.
North Fulton / South Forsyth’s Comprehensive Urological Care Resource Georgia Urology delivers the most advanced urological care available. We serve the North Fulton / South Forsyth communities with eight highly-trained and experienced urologists practicing in our five convienent locations.
Lawrence Goldstone, M.D., F.A.C.S. Alpharetta
Fred S. Shessel, M.D. Alpharetta
Hal Scherz, M.D., F.A.A.P., F.A.C.S. Alpharetta Pediatrics
Mark A. Haber, M.D., F.A.C.S. Cumming
Jerry Yuan, M.D. Cumming & Johns Creek
David M. Banks, M. D., F.A.C.S. Cumming North & Roswell
Lewis S. Kriteman, M.D., F.A.C.S. Cumming North & Roswell
Harry Rutland, M.D., F.A.C.S. Cumming North & Roswell
Georgia Urology specializes in medical and surgical services for the management of all genitourinary conditions in men, women, adolescents and children including:: • Urologic cancers (including prostate, kidney, bladder, and testicular) • Male and female incontinence • Kidney stones • Prostate problems • Robotic surgery
• Erectile dysfunction • Urinary tract infections • Male reproductive health & infertility (including vasectomy and vasectomy reversal) • Pediatric urology
KIDNEY STONE HOTLINE – 1-855-STONE11 Appointments within 24 business hours for kidney stone pain ALPHARETTA
3400-C Old Milton Pkwy Suite 535 Alpharetta, GA 30005 (770) 772-4427
CUMMING NORTH
1100 Northside Forsyth Dr Suite 410 Cumming, GA 30041 (678) 947-6199
CUMMING
1400 Northside Forsyth Dr Suite 220 Cumming, GA 30041 (770) 889-9737
JOHNS CREEK
11459 Johns Creek Pkwy Suite 170 Johns Creek, GA 30097 Phone: (678) 417-0400
ROSWELL
1357 Hembree Road Suite 250 Roswell, GA 30076 Phone: (770) 475-7550
To learn more, visit www.gaurology.com Medical Answer Book™ 2014 - 2015 • 19
Emory Johns Creek Hospital Number of beds: 110 Number of doctors: More than 850 Hospital space: 282,000 square feet Annual patients: 58,164 patients (inpatient, outpatient, ER) Areas of specialty: Advanced Cardiology, Primary Stroke Center, Bariatrics, Neurology, Women’s Services, Emergency Services Serving the community since: February 2007
20 • Medical Answer Book™ 2014 - 2015
The No. 1 message to the community: The hospital is best known for providing compassionate care in a truly state-of-the-art setting with hotel like amenities. Advanced imaging, diagnostics and surgical capabilities. Cardiac Cath Lab, Only Level III Neonatal Intensive Care Unit in the Area, Orthopedic Surgery, Neurosurgery, 24/7 Emergency. Comprehensive community hospital, offering complete range of health care services – world class, Emory care in a community hospital setting. 6325 Hospital Parkway Johns Creek, GA 30097 www.emoryjohnscreek.com 678-474-7000
Focusing on a Clearer Future. Bladeless Cataract Surgery
Plastics
• Upper eyelid lifts • Botox, facial fillers, and Latisse • Rejuvenate and enhance normal structure of the eye
• Symptoms of cataract: glares, halos, and/or steady decline in vision • Cataract surgery could restore vision to a glasses free state • Specialty lenses offered
LASIK
• Personalized free consultation with your surgeon • Corneal trained surgeons • Affordable low monthly payment plans
Glaucoma
• Get treatment for glaucoma before permanent damage is done to your vision • Meet with Dr. Anjum Cheema, our Glaucoma Specialist
2013 and 2014
Laser Cataract, Refractive & Corneal Surgeon
Laser Cataract, Refractive & Corneal Surgeon
Oculoplastic Surgeon
Kiran Sajja, M.D.
Anjum Cheema, M.D.
Gina Borgnini, O.D.
Priyal Gadani, O.D.
Vishal Patel, O.D.
John Barker, O.D.
Milan R. Patel, M.D.
Optometrist
Johns Creek
Niraj Desai, M.D.
Cumming
Optometrist
6300 Hospital Pkwy 970 Sanders Rd Suite 325 Suite 100 Johns Creek, GA 30097 Cumming, GA 30041
Canton
210 Kimberly Way Suite 106 Canton, GA 30114
Optometrist
Buford
1995 Mall of GA Blvd Suite A Buford, GA 30519
Glaucoma & Cataract Surgeon
Optometrist
Call for a consultation 678-688-4575 Learn more at www.MilanEyeCenter.com Medical Answer Book™ 2014 - 2015 • 21
Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta Areas of specialty: Cardiology and CT surgery, Diabetes and Endocrinology, Emergency services, Orthopaedics and Rehabilitation, Radiology, Cancer and blood disorders, Sports medicine, Surgery, Neurosciences, Urgent care The No. 1 message to the community: Every child deserves Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta. To impact more kids with this care and expertise that is unique to Children’s, we are expanding our locations and bringing together pediatric physicians in our community to build
a system of care, just for kids. Children’s is preserving free-standing pediatric care in our community for future generations of Georgia’s kids.
Children’s at Old Milton Parkway, 3300 Old Milton Parkway, Suite 370, Alpharetta, GA. 30005 Children’s at Webb Bridge, 3155 North Point Parkway, Building A, Alpharetta, GA. 30005
North Fulton Neighborhood Locations: Children’s at Alpharetta Highway, 11835 Alpharetta Highway, Roswell, GA. 30076 Children’s at Forsyth, 410 Peachtree Parkway, Suite 300, Cumming, GA. 30041 Children’s at North Point, 3795 Mansell Road, Alpharetta, GA. 30022
Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta hospitals: Egleston hospital, 1405 Clifton Road NE, Atlanta, GA. 30322 404-785-6000 Hughes Spalding hospital, 35 Jesse Hill Jr. Drive SE, Atlanta, GA. 30303, 404-785-9500 Scottish Rite hospital, 1001 Johnson Ferry Road NE, Atlanta, GA. 30342, 404-785-5252
22 • Medical Answer Book™ 2014 - 2015 • SPONSORED SECTION
Your questions answered by the best in the business.
Ask the expert for advice on hearing loss Q: Is hearing loss common? A: Yes, it is estimated that over 34 million Americans experience some form of hearing loss. Six out of ten people with hearing loss are men, and 60% of men with hearing loss are under retirement age. Q: How will I know if I have a hearing loss? A: Problems following a conversation or the need to keep the TV or radio turned up are symptoms of hearing loss. You may be experiencing an annoying ringing sensation in your ears. Family members and co-workers may be noticing inappropriate responses or your withdrawal from social activities. Q: Is there a test to determine the extent of any hearing loss? A: An initial test as part of a routine healthcare checkup may be given by a primary care physician. A complete diagnostic evaluation should be administered by a Doctor of Audiology who is uniquely qualified to diagnose the cause and extent of hearing loss.
The ears are first examined, and the Doctor of Audiology then proceeds with a number of tests done in a calibrated sound booth. Q: What can I do to improve my hearing if a hearing loss is determined? A: Once hearing loss is confirmed, the Doctor of Audiology may recommend medical intervention if needed, discuss hearing aid options, and provide extensive counseling for patients and family members. Q: Can untreated hearing loss get worse? A: Yes. Studies have linked untreated hearing loss to a range of physical and emotional conditions including irritability, anger, fatigue, tension, stress and depression. Q: If hearing aids are recommended, where can I get the facts about the best hearing aids for my lifestyle and budget? A: Choose a trusted Doctor of Audiology who will offer options tailored to your listening situations, lifestyle
and budget and who is knowledgeable of the proper fitting, adjustments and latest technology available in hearing aids. Q: I’m bombarded with hearing aid advertisements and am uncertain of which hearing aids to choose. How can I be sure that I am making a good decision regarding the purchase of hearing aids? A: Although hearing aids look similar, they are not all alike. Don’t be lured into a purchase of hearing aids that
may not be appropriate for your need or budget. Ask about the manufacturer’s customer service background to insure that the hearing aids can be serviced properly if needed in future years. Q: Does Medicare pay for hearing aids? A: Hearing aids are not currently covered by Medicare. A few insurance plans have a hearing aid benefit or allowance. To find out whether your insurance covers hearing aids, call the member services num-
ber on your insurance card for verification. Q: Is there a reputable Doctor of Audiology in the area? A: Yes. Doctor Deborah Woodward has a long-standing reputation in the community for outstanding patient care and is located in the Johns Creek area. An appointment with Dr. Woodward can be arranged by calling Johns Creek Audiology & Hearing Aid Center at: 770-814-1260.
SPONSORED SECTION • Medical Answer Book™ 2014 - 2015 • 23
Jaw and facial pain relief Q: What is TMJ and TMD? A: Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder (TMD) is a condition that occurs as a result of dysfunction of the jaw
joint and the muscles that control jaw movement. To temporarily alleviate TMD symptoms sufferers can try conservative home remedies. Q: What home remedies
can relieve TMD? A: Stress reduction and changes in diet can relieve pain in your jaw. Clenching teeth from daily stress can make your jaw hurt at night; eating chewy or doughy foods
can also cause TMJ pain. Antiinflammatory over the counter pain relief medication can reduce the pain but it won’t fix the problem. Q: What are some common symptoms of having TMD? A: If you have any of: clicking or popping jaw, pain in your face, migraines or headaches, neck or shoulder pain, obstructive sleep apnea then neuromuscular dentistry can potentially help you. Q: What is neuromuscular dentistry? A: When the teeth, facial muscles, and temporomandibular joints are out of alignment, the symptoms of what have been identified as TMJ / TMD arise. A neuromuscular dentist accounts for this alignment and incorporates it into the everyday treatment including crowns and veneers. Q: Will neuromuscular dentistry make me look younger? A: A neuromuscular dentist will ensure your dental work will work with your body to be in a position where your teeth fit together and reduce or eliminate the cause of wear. Smile wear causes people to look older as it changes their face. Patients often wait too long to go to the Dentist. As a result, the teeth wear down causing sensitivity and pain. Q: Do all dentists know about neuromuscular dentistry? A: Most dentists have looked at the tooth to tooth relationship and creating simultaneous contact on the back right and back left teeth was the primary goal. This was improved by looking at the alignment of the jaw joints. A neuromuscular dentist moved from primarily being tooth driven to primarily
24 • Medical Answer Book™ 2014 - 2015
being bone and joint driven. In order to allow the joint to function in a specific relationship, the teeth were reshaped and altered to attempt to help address bite issues. It is more complete to include not just teeth but also bones and muscles in the evaluation of the patient. Q: What does a neuromuscular dentist do and does it cost extra to have a neuromuscular dentist? A: What a neuromuscular dentist will do is actually measure and assess the soft tissues like muscles as well as the teeth and the bones. The neuromuscular dentist can literally measure the bite muscles exactly like a heart doctor would measure your heart muscles. This comprehensive and complete picture allows the neuromuscular dentists to see beyond the teeth – and in fact, since the muscles account for 90% of the pain in the body, the neuromuscular dentist has a focus that allows them to help in ways classically trained dentists don’t yet understand. The extra training and equipment required to perform neuromuscular dentistry is not extra for the patient; it is a way of thinking and is incorporated into everything we do at Crabapple Dental. Q: What extra equipment do you have at Crabapple Dental to do neuromuscular dentistry? A: We have a Mytronics K7 to measure the correct location for your jaw and bite and a TENS unit to relax the muscles to find its optimum position; the daily stress and tension in your face needs to be relaxed before we can calculate the optimum position. We commonly use the Myotronics for relieving Sleep Apnea in our patients that want to eliminate/ reduce use of a CPAP.
When is the best time to get braces? Orthodontic treatment today is about faces not just braces. Consequently, facial esthetics dictates the proper timing for treatment. While treatment can contribute to the physical and psychological development of patients young and old, some patients require early intervention. The American Association of Orthodontists recommends an initial visit to an orthodontist at age 7 for this reason. Most patients do not need early treatment, but if necessary, amazing improvements in facial esthetics and function can be accomplished. The common orthodontic problems that can be treated in between 7 and 9 years old include underbites and severe overbites as well as patients with crossbites and openbites. These conditions are considered muscular skeletal prob-
lems and are best addressed in the mixed dentition when the permanent front teeth are erupting. These treatments are referred to as dentofacial orthopedics because we are working with the bones of the face and not just the teeth. The majority of patients benefit from a single treatment during adolescence, as the last few primary teeth are lost and the second molars erupt. The exact age varies, but most patients are treated during the middle school years and can be completed by high school. Of course, sometimes the teeth are slow to erupt and this can delay the completion of treatment. For this reason, starting treatment too early can prolong treatment duration and result in orthodontic burnout for the patients. Patient cooperation is important in keeping the treatments short in
Dr. Jeffrey Jordan duration and efficient. Interestingly, girl’s teeth erupt earlier than boys of the same age. Teenagers are usually in a rapid growth phase during this period. As a result, dramatic results can be achieved with improved facial esthetics and function. For example, the smile can be made wider, the lower jaw can be advanced, or a gummy smile can be eliminated. A smile analysis dictates in what direction the
teeth and jaws should be moved. These changes can be life altering for some patients during the teen years. Of course, adults want to look good too, and orthodontic treatment for adults is more popular than ever! Invisalign, clear braces, and improvements in surgical techniques make having a fantastic smile easier too. The bulky braces and heavy forces of yesteryear are a thing of the past. Invisalign is a series of clear aligners that move the teeth. Each aligner moves the teeth a quarter of a millimeter and is worn for about two weeks. The number of aligners is dictated by how crowded or spaced out your teeth are at the beginning. Clear or ceramic braces combined with new superelastic memory wires have made tradition orthodontic treat-
ment more efficient and more comfortable. The teeth move a little every day and the forces on the teeth are very light. For more dramatic changes, orthognathic surgery can totally transform ones appearance if necessary. Adults who desire improved facial esthetics can benefit from orthodontics combined with surgery to correct facial imbalances. In this situation, the braces are placed on the teeth for about six months prior to surgery and remain on the teeth for a few months after the procedure. So the best time to get treatment is when you or your child is ready to improve that smile! It’s about faces not just braces.
Medical Answer Book™ 2014 - 2015 • 25
Staying ahead of concussions: A parent’s guide For parents, it’s gutwrenching to see your child crash on the soccer field or get elbowed in the temple while charging the plate in baseball. Although contact sports, such as football, have been in the news regarding concussion risk, this injury can also result from collision with another child, the ground, a wall, a goalpost or a ball—even a fall from a bicycle or skateboard can result in concussion. Before you can help your child, spouse or even yourself, know the facts. Here’s our guide to concussion: What is a Concussion? “A concussion is a traumatic brain injury, caused by a bump or blow—usually to the head—that is hard enough to
disrupt the metabolic functioning of the brain,” says Marla Shapiro, PhD, NCSP, chief neuropsychologist at the Concussion Institute at Gwinnett Medical Center-Duluth. “It’s not a bruise or a bleed, but the disruption to the brain’s fuel sources that cause the physical, cognitive, or emotional symptoms which characterize a concussion. All concussions are serious, including those that occur without loss of consciousness or memory impairment” She adds that young people, especially teenagers, are more vulnerable to second impact syndrome, which is the catastrophic, and sometimes fatal, brain injury that occurs when the brain is reinjured before the recovery from a concussion is complete. It’s better to miss one game than the whole season.
26 • Medical Answer Book™ 2014 - 2015
Marla Shapiro What Do I Look For? While the injury is immediate, symptoms vary widely, and may not show up until hours later, or possibly the next day. Symptoms range from subtle to obvious, including: • Headache • Nausea or vomiting • Dizziness or balance problems
• Double or blurry vision • Sensitivity to light or noise • Feeling dazed or stunned • Trouble concentrating or remembering • Confused or forgetful about recent events • Slow to answer questions • Changes in mood—irritable, sad, emotional, nervous • Drowsiness • Sleeping more or less than usual Treating a Concussion After identifying the concussion, these are the next steps: Rest: Following a concussion, rest is key. Not only should the student-athlete not participate in physical activities, he or she should also limit activities that require a lot of mental activity or concentration. This includes everything from sports and schoolwork, to jobs and video games. “It’s
not cutting off all access,” adds Dr. Shapiro, “but taking breaks before symptoms worsen.” Evaluation: Do not try to judge the severity of the injury yourself. Have your studentathlete evaluated right away by an appropriate health care professional. The experts at the Concussion Institute at GMC-Duluth have a number of methods that they can use to assess concussion severity and to develop an appropriate care plan. Rally the Team: Inform your child’s teachers, administrators, etc., about the injury and symptoms. Your child may need rest breaks or extra help to perform activities, such as tests. The Concussion Institute has an educational coordinator dedicated to helping you with
See GUIDE, Page 34
KeyWorth Bank provides experience that’s worth banking on There was a time when simply being a good doctor and providing outstanding care would ensure a doctor’s success. This is not the case today. Consider all of the complexities ranging from healthcare reform, one-sided contracts with managed care organizations, deeper cuts to Medicare, enormous malpractice insurance rates, claims appeals and the complexities of electronic medical records. The business side of medicine has become a distraction for doctors, taking away valuable patient time and resulting in lost revenue for the doctor and the practice. A key component to assisting doctors with today’s complexities is a solid financial institution. A strong bank can
Johns Creek Full Service 770-418-2772
help doctors be financially prepared for practice transitions, expansions, office renovations and investment in new technologies. Having a banking team with experienced financial professionals that specialize in medical banking can make a difference. KeyWorth Bank has a team of bankers who specialize in medical banking. KeyWorth Bank is dedicated to strong and sound growth, serving the medical and business community in metro Atlanta. The bank opened its doors in 2007 and has grown to nearly $400 million in assets with offices in Alpharetta, Duluth, Dunwoody, Marietta and Johns Creek. It has become clear that these markets comprise a large portion of Atlanta’s medical
Alpharetta Full Service 770-753-2300
community – a community of physicians and dentists with specific business needs. Medical practices like Children’s Orthopaedics of Atlanta are finding the true benefit of working with a team like KeyWorth. “KeyWorth Bank has demonstrated a ‘customer friendly’ approach,” said Mark Kline, COO of Children’s Orthopaedics of Atlanta. “KeyWorth has keen insight into the needs of a medical practice, a thorough understanding of physician financial information and responsiveness to our needs that we have never seen in the Atlanta banking community.” “This is exactly what we had in mind when assembling our medical banking team,” said Neil Stevens, President
Duluth Full Service 678-475-5120
Marietta (Loan Office) 770-407-2222
of KeyWorth Bank. “We know that the last thing doctors have is excess time. At KeyWorth, we understand a practice’s unique business situation and help physicians and dentists navigate through today’s complex environment.” In addition to a variety of checking accounts, online banking services, money markets and CDs, there are several extra benefits that dentists and physicians should look for in a bank. One such benefit is Remote Deposit Capture – saving trips to the bank through a web-based application that reduces the risk of check fraud. Merchant service offerings should also be considered, allowing practices to accept credit, debit and gift cards.
Perhaps the biggest benefit a medical practice should seek is multiple financing options, including SBA loan programs. Some practices may need to purchase new equipment to remain current in the latest medical innovations. A strong bank, like KeyWorth Bank, has money to lend and helps practices obtain better loan terms in many cases. Additional financing solutions such as real estate or construction loans, working capital lines of credit and practice acquisition loans could be a tremendous benefit throughout a practice’s lifecycle. Dr. Charles Machemehl III, of Johns Creek Family Or-
See KEYWORTH, Page 31
Dunwoody Full Service 770-399-2040
www.KeyWorthBank.com Medical Answer Book™ 2014 - 2015 • 27
Colon cancer screenings can save your life Balancing a busy life can be challenging. But ignoring important health screenings could result in very serious consequences. If you’re age 50 or older, getting screened for colon cancer is something you shouldn’t put off. According to the American Cancer Society, colon cancer is the third leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the United States when men and women are considered separately, and the second leading cause when both sexes are combined. Here’s the good news: colon cancer is one of the most highly treatable and preventable cancers. When detected in its early stages, colon cancer is 90% curable. The physicians at Atlanta Gastroenterology Associates are experts in screening pa-
tients for colon cancer. In fact, the group performed more than 45,000 colonoscopies in 2013 alone. The primary goal of a screening colonoscopy is for the physician to look inside the entire large intestine to find and remove any abnormal growths or polyps. Because polyps grow slowly and may eventually become cancerous, removing them during a colonoscopy eliminates the risk of developing the disease. Most screenings can be performed in one of our accredited outpatient endoscopy centers and the procedure is relatively painless. Anyone can be diagnosed with colon cancer – men and women, any ethnicity – and the risk of getting the disease increases with age. Plus, if you have a family history of colon cancer, you may need to be screened
earlier than age 50. So talk to your primary care physician or call the AGA office nearest you and make an appointment. It could save your life. Since its formation more than 35 years ago, AGA has been committed to providing patients with quality and costeffective healthcare. Our physicians see patients in more than 35 locations and nine endoscopy centers throughout metro Atlanta and North Georgia. To find out more about us, visit www.atlantagastro.com. Or find us on Facebook: http:// www.facebook.com/atlantagastro. Our Physicians in Alpharetta, Cumming, Johns Creek and Roswell: • David Atefi, MD, Alpharetta, Cumming, Roswell • William Bizzaro, MD, Alpharetta, Cumming, Roswell
• E. Chris Cameron, MD, Alpharetta, Cumming, Dawsonville, Roswell • Robert Eisenband, MD, Emory Saint Joseph’s, Roswell • Luis Galvez, MD, Emory Saint Joseph’s, Roswell • Sagar Garud, MD, Cumming, Roswell • Yasmin Karim, MD, Alpharetta, Cumming, Roswell • Hetal Karsan, MD, Alpharetta, Emory Saint Joseph’s • Kamil Obideen, MD, Alpharetta, Cumming, Roswell • Girish Poré, MD, Alpharetta, Johns Creek For Appointments: • Alpharetta: 3400 Old Milton
Parkway, Building A, Suite 340, 678.987.1485 • Cumming: 1505 Northside Boulevard, Suite 2000 770.781.4010 • Johns Creek: 3890 Johns Creek Parkway, Suite 250 678.775.0293 • Roswell: 1340 Upper Hembree Road, Suite A, 770.569.0777 Since many health insurance plans require a referral from a primary care physician, please check with your individual carrier before scheduling an appointment. AGA is a participating provider for Medicare, Medicaid and most healthcare plans offered in the state of Georgia.
Time to take spider and varicose veins seriously Do you have a bulging vein on your leg? Or maybe little blue spider-like veins on your legs? If so, you are among millions of women and men who suffer from vein disease. In fact, 30 million people in the U.S. suffer from vein problems, and an amazing 50% of people over 50 have varicose veins. What’s startling is that only 1.9 million people seek medical treatment for their vein problems. For too long, people believed that treating spider or varicose veins was just for cosmetic reasons. But the truth is you need to see a doctor about discolored, enlarged veins because they often indicate Chronic Vein Insufficiency (CVI) and other serious issues. “You shouldn’t ignore discolored or enlarged veins,” said Dr. Peter Wrobel, Director of the North Georgia Vein Institute in Cumming, Ga. “Left untreated, diseased veins can cause pain, throbbing, swelling, and even serious medical conditions such as blood clots.” Patients today have a variety of treatments available - from traditional sclerotheraphy to high tech radiofrequency ablation – to treat vein disease. Medical insurance covers most varicose proce-
28 • Medical Answer Book™ 2014 - 2015
dures. Usually, patients experience little or no pain and discomfort with the vein treatments. In fact, according to Dr. Wrobel, treatments are usually performed outpatient, and most patients go back to work the next day or even the same day.” Basically five different vein treatments are available today: Radiofrequency ablation – Here a tiny catheter is placed through a small incision made in the affected vein. The catheter, using radiofrequency energy, heats the vein wall, causing it to shrink and seal off.
Laser ablation – This minimally invasive is used primarily on larger, engorged veins. A tiny laser fiber, inserted into the diseased vein, heats and irritates the vein’s lining. The vein collapses and slowly disappears. Phlebectomy – In this procedure, micro incisions are made next to the diseased varicose vein. Then the vein is removed through the incision. Sclerotherapy – This is the time-tested procedure for treating spider or uncomplicated reticular veins. A sclerosing solution is injected into spider veins. The solution causes the vein or veins to react, swell, and stick together. The diseased vein collapses and stops functioning. Perforator Sclerotherapy – In this procedure, often used on varicose perforator or communicating veins, a foaming sclerosing agent is injected into the diseased vein. The vein reacts to the fluid, collapses, and stops functioning. The first step to vein health is an ultrasound for diagnosing. With that ultrasound information, Dr.
See VEIN, Page 30
FAQ – Bladeless cataract surgery What is a cataract and what is cataract surgery? Cataracts are the most common cause of vision loss in people over 40 and today cataracts affect more than 22 million Americans age 40 and older. At some point in our life, we will all develop a cataract. The natural lens of the eye yellows and becomes cloudy with age as a result of biological changes of the proteins inside the lens. The function of the human lens is to focus incoming light onto the back of the eye. As your lens ages, light from the outside worlds becomes more and more distorted as it enters your eye. Difficulty reading, needing more light to read, experiencing glare and haloes at night and, even poor sleep patterns can be explained by cataract formation. The treatment for cataracts involves an almost painless, 10 minute
surgery to remove the “clouded lens” or “cataract” and replace it with a man made intraocular lens implant. . What is laser cataract surgery? With traditional cataract surgery, all the steps of the surgery are customarily performed “manually” by the surgeon using handheld tools. Laser cataract surgery- the next evolution of cataract surgery with the Ziemer Z6 laser generally offers a greater amount of precision, predictability and safety to these steps leading to potentially improve visual outcomes and more precise targets. With the Ziemer Z6 Laser System, your surgeon has the potential to offer you unmatched accuracy and a more predictable and customized cataract procedure. Based on your medical his-
tory and pre-operative evaluation, you and your surgeon will discuss the options available for your desired visual result. Together you can discuss a treatment plan which may include using the LDV Z6 to create the laser incisions in the cornea along with an advanced lens implant that may allow for improved near, intermediate or distance vision. How is laser cataract surgery different from traditional cataract surgery? In traditional cataract surgery, incisions in the cornea are made using handheld instruments including blades to access the cataract. Your surgeon will then use a surgical device to manually create a circular opening in the lens capsule of the eye that holds the cataract. The Ziemer Z6 laser can be used to make the
corneal incisions precise and the opening in the lens capsule as circular as possible, in the right location, and sized to fit the replacement lens. Your surgeon can also use the laser to break up and soften the hard cataract. Softening the lens with the laser enables your surgeon to then remove the cataract more gently and with significantly less ultrasound energy than is used in traditional manual cataract surgery. What are the benefits of laser cataract surgery? • A highly customized treatment • A treatment with little or no discomfort • A potentially more precise and predictable treatment • By and large, a gentler and easier cataract removal • Generally, a more rapid visual
recovery due to reduced inflammation • The opportunity to receive tailored treatment with advanced technology multifocal lenses, which may reduce the need for glasses or contact lenses after surgery How long does the procedure take? You can expect to be at our center for about 2 hours, and you will be in the procedure room for only 20-25 minutes. Please call 678-688-4575 or visit our website at milaneyecenter.com for more information on how to schedule your Cataract evaluation at Milan Eye Center where compassion meets excellence in eye care.
Say Goodbye to Ugly Varicose Veins at North Georgia Vein Institute Get your life back by getting rid of: • Aching • Swelling • Cramping
Before
After
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With modern improvements in Varicose and Spider Vein treatments, men and women can get back a feeling of youthfulness and enjoy better looking legs. Don’t your legs deserve that? • Procedures covered by most insurers and Medicare • State of the art treatment techniques • Trained and experienced physician in phlebology (vein medicine) • Resume daily activities in 24 hrs.
Peter Worbel, MD
www.northgeorgiavein.com Cumming and Dawsonville
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Medical Answer Book™ 2014 - 2015 • 29
For advice on sports medicine Question: What are some common sports injuries that you see in your practice? Answer: In a typical day, an orthopaedic surgeon can see several different sports injuries
such as rotator cuff tear injuries, ACL tears, meniscal injuries, sprains and strains of all joints, labral tears, shoulder injuries, golfer and tennis elbow, broken bones, ankle injuries, groin and hip injuries, and achilles tendon tears. The list of sports injuries can go on and on.
Question: If you have a sports injury, what can you do about it? Answer: The best thing you can do immediately is R.I.C.E. (Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevation). If you do not get relief by doing this then you should speak
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to your primary care physician or orthopaedic surgeon. -Ron Hall, M.D. Question: What are common shoulder injuries? Answer: There are many activities such as tennis and heavy gardening that can damage the rotator cuff. The rotator cuff tendon is vulnerable to injury in individuals over the age of 40 years due to diminished elasticity of the tendon. Minor trauma such as a ground level fall or lifting a heavy box can damage the shoulder. Repetitive muscle contractions from overhead activity can lead to inflammation and micro-tears of the tendon which can ultimately cause significant structural damage. The initial treatment is to relieve the inflammation and irritation of the rotator cuff tendons and bursa. Rest takes the form of activity modification which means stopping the offending activity such as sports. As the pain subsides with everyday activity, then one must begin a strengthening program to rehabilitate the rotator cuff. These exercises are performed below shoulder level usually with rubber tubing. Once strength has returned and
Vein:
Continued from Page 28 Wrobel gauges the involvement of any below the surface veins and determines the most effective treatment. The best physician for diagnosing and treating Chronic Vein Disease is one who specializes in vein disease procedures and who has extensive medical training in phlebology.
30 • Medical Answer Book™ 2014 - 2015
pain has resolved with normal daily activities, then you can resume sporting activities. There needs to be a gradual resumption of sports to prevent recurrence of symptoms due to the weakness that has occurred. -Angelo DiFelice, M.D. Question: What are common knee injuries? Answer: Some common knee injuries include Ligament tears and strains (ACL, MCL, PCL, and LCL), Cartilage injuries (meniscus tears), as well as Arthritis. There are many proactive ways to prevent knee problems. Maintaining normal body weight decreases stress across the knee and decreases risk of injury. Maintaining a strength training program that focuses on quadriceps and hamstring strengthening also protects the knee. Knee braces during athletic activities also act like an added “insurance policy” against injury. And finally, less impactful exercising, such as biking, swimming, and elliptical, put less stress across the knee and typically allows for improved long term function. -Irfan Ansari, M.D.
At North Georgia Vein Institute, Dr. Wrobel and his trained nursing team are experienced in phlebology, vein health, and in the leading vein disease treatments. Our mission is to provide comprehensive vein disease evaluation and treatment in a uniquely comfortable spa environment with state of the art technology and expertise. For a free vein screening and start to healthier veins and a healthier you, call 678.513.1600.
Bring your life back into focus with LASIK at Milan Eye Center Is LASIK surgery the right choice for you? LASIK (laserassisted in situ keratomileusis) is an outpatient refractive surgery procedure intended to reduce a person’s dependency on glasses or contact lenses. An excimer laser is used to permanently reshape the clear covering of the eye called the cornea. This reshaping of the cornea will improve the way the eye focuses light thus correcting a person’s nearsightedness, farsightedness, and/or astigmatism. First approved for use by the FDA in 1998, LASIK has been steadily gaining popularity and has satisfied millions of people worldwide. Each year, approximately 700,000 Americans have the procedure and the vast majority of patients are happy with their
results. As with any surgical procedure, there are risks associated with LASIK but the overall complication rate is low. Infection and inflammation are rare possibilities and usually can be treated with topical medications. LASIK is not suited for everyone. As a patient, it is important to have a clear understanding of the procedure, the risk and benefits, and whether or not the patient is a good candidate. What to expect before, during, and after surgery will vary from doctor to doctor and patient to patient. Anyone interested in having LASIK will need an initial or baseline evaluation by an eye care physician to determine candidacy. If the patient primarily wears contact lenses, it is a good idea to
stop wearing them before the baseline evaluation and switch to wearing glasses temporarily. This allows the cornea to assume its natural shape before surgery so as to avoid negative consequences. It is essential that individuals considering LASIK have realistic expectations. LASIK allows individuals to perform most of their everyday tasks independent of corrective lenses. However, people looking for perfect vision without glasses or contacts or have been previously diagnosed with cataracts run the risk of being disappointed. Most patients can only achieve vision similar to what they had with glasses and contacts before LASIK. Individual over the age of 40 who now have presbyopia (diminishing near focus requiring
the dependency on reading glasses or bifocals) may want to consider a corrective strategy called monovision. This technique corrects vision to allow for near or intermediate vision in one eye and distance vision in the other eye. Each eye will work independently from one another allowing the brain to perceive images focused at different distances. Not everyone is comfortable with this difference in focus, especially those who play certain sports or do a lot of night driving. Glasses may still be necessary on an as needed basis. LASIK is performed in an outpatient surgical center, with the patient reclining under a surgical device called an excimer laser. The length of the procedure can vary between
10-15 minutes depending on the patient’s prescription. After surgery, eye rubbing should be avoided, which may cause the flap to shift out of place. To help protect the cornea as it heals, the surgeon may place a transparent protective shield over your eye. The shield may only be needed at night to prevent you from rubbing the eye during sleep. During your free LASIK consultation, our medical team will determine your candidacy for LASIK, explain the procedure in depth and answer any questions you may have. Please call 678-6884575 or visit our website at milaneyecenter.com for more information on how to schedule your free LASIK exam at Milan Eye Center where compassion meets excellence in eye care.
Milan Eye Center Now Offers Oculoplastics and Cosmetic Services with Dr. Kiran Sajja Milan Eye Center is excited to announce the arrival of Dr. Kiran Sajja, a BoardCertified ophthalmologist specializing in functional, reconstructive and cosmetic oculoplastic surgery. As an oculoplastic surgeon, Dr. Sajja has undergone extensive training in both ophthalmology and plastic reconstructive surgery
seamlessly blending the intricate microsurgical techniques of eye surgery with the aesthetic understanding of plastic surgery. Dr. Sajja has a unique blend of experience, compassion and artistry that he shares with each and every patient. With the addition of Dr. Sajja, Milan Eye Center will expand the unsurpassed
KeyWorth: Continued from Page 27
thodontics, remarks that his bank has been critical to the financial success of his practice.
level of care and services provided to the North Atlanta community. Dr. Sajja cares for patients with a wide variety of conditions, including eyelid droopiness, eyelid bagginess, and tearing: Eyelid ptosis or “eyelid droopiness” is most often related to stretching or detachment of the muscle
“KeyWorth Bank is very strong and stable,” he said. “It’s reassuring to know my bank and team of professionals will be around when I need them.” Speaking of “being around,” the medical banking specialists at KeyWorth go out of their way to meet with doctors
used to open your eyes. Over time, this condition can interfere with your vision resulting in a decreased field of view or overall dimming of your vision. Common complaints often include needing more light to read, difficulty driving, and headaches. Eyelid ptosis is often associ-
See SAJJA, Page 41
and dentists on their schedule. “It’s not about ‘banker’s hours’ anymore,” said KeyWorth CEO Jim Pope, “It’s about the most effective way to get business done.” To sum it all up, there IS a difference in banks when it comes to medi-
cal banking. A team of professionals that understands those differences can put the focus quickly back on the patient. Now that’s experience worth banking on!
Medical Answer Book™ 2014 - 2015 • 31
Roswell, GA is a place dedicated to being local. With thriving small businesses, a growing focus on health care services and and an entrepreneurial atmosphere, residents and business owners alike find it all in Roswell. Whether you are looking to relocate your family, your business or just yourself - you will find all the assistance you need to be a part of a classic, southern town with a distinct quality of life - with services and activities for all ages. Roswell, GA has the tools in place to help our local businesses thrive, directly contributing to the strong local economy. With an active, diverse and unique community, Roswell, GA is the place to become a local, and stay a local. a big impact
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Leg Pain and unsightly veins? Every solution available for men and women Today’s vein disease treatments are fast, effective, and over 90% are covered by insurance David Martin, RN, CRNFA, and president and CEO of VeinInnovations answers questions regarding symptoms of and treatments for venous disease. Martin founded VeinInnovations in 2002 as Atlanta’s first dedicated venous health center offering every available technique for the treatment of venous insufficiency and varicose and spider veins. With clinics in Atlanta and Johns Creek, VeinInnovations also offers cep sports compression wear at the Johns Creek clinic, and medi compression socks and hose at both facilities. Surgeons David Park, MD, and Alex Park, MD, staff the Johns Creek facility. VeinInnovations is widely regarded as the Atlanta area leader in office-based, minimally invasive treatment of venous
disease. Most procedures done by VeinInnovations are covered by insurance. For more information, please visit www.veininnovations.com What is venous insufficiency? In the lower half of your body, your calf muscles help pump deoxygenated blood back up to the heart and lungs to be re-oxygenated. In healthy leg veins, one-way valves, which open and close to assist the return of blood, stay closed, allowing blood to “reflux” or flow backward. When this happens, blood pools, making the legs feel heavy and tired. Pooled blood also causes varicose veins as well as blue or purple “spider veins” and changes in the skin’s surface. Left untreated, venous insufficiency may result in swelling and venous stasis ulcers. How common is venous disease? The American College of Phlebology estimates that 80 million people in the U.S. have some form of venous
disorder. It’s estimated that by the age of 50, half of women, and perhaps half of men as well, have some degree of venous insufficiency. Men and women of all ages and activity levels can be affected, though the likelihood of developing problems increases with age. There is a strong genetic – hereditary – component to vein disease: It runs in families. Environmental risks, pregnancy, sitting or standing for long hours, heavy lifting, and other factors can increase the likelihood of problems. What are symptoms of vein disease? Varicose or spider veins – with or without pain, fatigue, swelling, heaviness, or restlessness in the legs – are key visible symptoms of vein disease. Other symptoms include night leg pain, the need to move legs at night, cramping, discomfort that worsens throughout the day or while standing, itchy skin, redness or skin changes in the legs, and ulcers. How do men and women differ with regard to vein disease? Women are more likely to seek treatment for pain and the appearance of their legs. Men often wait until they are in a great deal of pain, or until the appearance of torturous veins is so unsightly they don’t want to wear shorts. When the pain of reflux slow them down in work, golf, tennis, running, or gardening, men will finally seek treatment. Women often first experience varicose,
Guide:
Continued from Page 26 this. Safe Return to Play: “Recovery times vary across individuals,” says Dr. Shapiro,“so you should be wary when permission is based on the amount of time spent ‘resting,’ rather than measures of current symptoms and neurocognitive status.” “It is important that students be 100% back to pre-injury levels in all areas assessed, and symptom free with a full academic schedule, before beginning the return to play,” adds Dr. Shapiro. “Our
34 • Medical Answer Book™ 2014 - 2015
spider veins, pain, and swelling during pregnancy, as hormonal changes impact the elasticity of veins, increasing the likelihood of reflux. For men and women, varicose and spider veins and leg pain will not go away. Venous reflux disease is progressive; treatment earlier rather than later may help insure a higher quality of life for many years if treatment helps patients maintain a healthy program of exercise and sleep. What makes treatment today so much easier? New technology that became available about 13 years ago revolutionized vein disease treatment. Today, we use the latest radio frequency and laser energy, as well as Doppler ultrasound technology, to achieve better results (98% success rate) than those achieved by traditional surgery, which required a hospital stay and a lengthy recovery. What happens if I don’t treat my venous disease? Venous disease is progressive; it gets worse over time. Without treatment, venous disease can lead to lipodermosclerosis, a disease of the skin and connective tissue; an increased chance of superficial venous thrombophlebitis, clotting in the superficial veins that causes severe pain and incapacitation; spontaneous bleeding of a exposed or injured vein; and ulceration, wounds on the leg that will not heal.
mission at the Concussion Institute is to help student athletes return to the playing field and to the classroom as quickly and as safely as possible.” The Concussion Institute is the newest addition to the Sports Medicine Program at GMC-Duluth. Since 2005, this program has provided comprehensive care including ImPACT testing, educational events and providing certified athletic trainers for professional teams, recreational leagues, high schools, colleges and private schools. To learn more about the Concussion Institute, visit gwinnettsportsmed. com/concussion or call 678-312-7880.
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Medical Answer Book™ 2014 - 2015 • 35
Halyard Health to locate HQ in Alpharetta By JONATHAN COPSEY A new company is heading for Alpharetta, and bringing with it potentially hundreds of jobs. Halyard Health, Inc., is a spin-off from health giant Kimberly-Clark. The announcement came that the new company headquarters would be based near Kimberly-Clark’s Roswell campus, in neighboring Alpharetta. Incoming CEO of Halyard, Robert Abernathy, said the decision was made to stay close to the Roswell campus of Kimberly-Clark. “Alpharetta allows us to stay close to the community and reduces the impact of a commute on our employees,” Abernathy said. “We have been in this area for over 30 years and are proud to be part of the community here in Georgia.” Halyard will set up shop in a 240,872- square foot vacant building on the corner of Windward parkway and Westside Parkway, close to the intersection with Ga. 400. They will move in December 2014. Once the planned spin-off is completed later this year, Halyard Health will be a stand-alone public company and is expected to trade on the New York Stock Exchange. The company already generates
Healthcare technology company Halyard Health will open its headquarters in Alpharetta by the end of the year. approximately $1.7 billion in annual net sales, has leading market positions in both surgical and infection prevention products and medical devices and employs approximately 16,500 employees worldwide. Abernathy said plans were still being drawn up for the new headquarters, but he expected between 150-200 new jobs to be created over the next two years in areas such as information technology,
finance, procurement and human resources. Halyard is already one of the leading producers of health-related equipment, dominating the market in enteral feeding, sterilization wrap, face masks, surgical pain pumps and global suction catheters. “Halyard Health will look to maintain market leadership and further grow these businesses while identifying, developing and pursuing new opportunities,” Abernathy said. The company already has a large presence in the sterilization and creation of health products and procedures. “[We are] committed to advancing health and healthcare by preventing infection, eliminating pain and speeding recovery,” Abernathy said. “Advancing healthcare means fueling individual and industry progress against health goals by improving infection, pain and recovery outcomes for our customers and their patients.” The company has facilities in 12 countries around the world. However no products are made in Georgia. For more on Halyard, visit them online at www. halyardhealth.com.
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36 • Medical Answer Book™ 2014 - 2015
Emory JC doctor offers hope to amputee candidates By HATCHER HURD Emory Johns Creek Hospital’s Dr. Greg Robertson says many of the 150,000 limb amputations annually could be prevented if more people were aware of a new surgical procedure he helped pioneer. The cause of these amputations is what is known as peripheral arterial disease (PAD) where the arteries become clogged with plaque – the build-up of fatty deposits and other cells that can build up in the walls of arteries over time. The old technology of detecting plaque build-up with X-rays does not provide the degree of visual competency to go in and scrape the walls of the arteries. In advanced cases, the treatment becomes amputation. “It’s a problem. There is so much awareness of cancer and heart disease, but PAD flies under the radar,” Robertson said. Robertson says what is especially tragic is there is a new procedure to allow a tiny laser camera mounted in the device that allows the surgeon to see to score the arterial walls. The way Robertson describes the device (called an Ocelot and manufactured by Avinger Co.) is it is like an auger with a laser camera. “So what we need to do is a better job of educating doctors and nurses to screen for PAD – not only to diagnose it, but to treat it with the latest technology,” he said. “It’s a 15-minute test similar to an EKG. “What is needed is the under-
standing, the training and the passion to treat PAD patients.” Patients most at risk of PAD are diabetics and smokers. Robertson has been working with Dr. John Simpson at Stanford University. Simpson is perhaps the leader in less invasive cardiovascular surgical procedures and invented the Ocelot. Robertson conducted the trials for the Ocelot in Germany and South America that got the Ocelot medically approved for use in the United States. “It is really life-changing for these patients,” Robertson said. “It allows the surgeon to see inside the artery as he performs the [removal of plaque]. You put a laser camera on the device; it allows the surgeon to stay on target without poking a hole in the artery.” He recently had a 38-year-old patient who was a farmer in Tennessee. Diagnosed with PAD, he was referred to Robertson as his last and best chance to prevent amputation. Robertson was successful in saving the leg with this minimally invasive procedure. “He had already lost his other leg at the knee in an accident. As a farmer, had he lost his other leg he would not have been able to earn a living,” Robertson said. “Not only that, blocked arteries are the leading cause of death in America.”
Laser technology can save legs otherwise lost to arterial disease.
EMORY JOHNS CREEK HOSPITAL
Main image: This is what the surgeon can see as the arteries are cleared of life-threatening plaque. Inset: This laser camera fits on the end of the doctor’s scouring device so that he can see in real time how clogged arteries are cleared without damaging them.
Medical Answer Book™ 2014 - 2015 • 37
North Fulton Hospital Surgeons Offer Robotic Surgery through Belly Button Incision with da Vinci System When faced with surgery, many patients worry about scarring, pain, and recovery time. With the recent addition of the da Vinci Surgical System to its robotic surgery capabilities, North Fulton Hospital now offers patients even more surgical options, including virtually scarless single site surgery procedures. The surgical team at North Fulton Hospital in Roswell is proud to provide patients with the most minimally invasive surgical options, including single-incision gallbladder removal and single-incision hysterectomy using the da Vinci Surgical System. Both procedures are completed through one tiny incision in the belly button, approximately one inch, making the procedure virtually scarless. “The da Vinci robot is not new, but recent technological advancements have led to the addition of special tools that make it a real asset in complex laparoscopic surgeries,” says Dr. Patrick Kenney, board certified General Surgeon at North Fulton Hospital. “To offer this technically advanced surgery demonstrates North Fulton Hospital’s leadership in providing patients with the most minimally invasive surgical options.” Dr. Kenney originally saw the da Vinci Surgical System more than 10 years ago. He immediately saw how it would make laparoscopic surgeries more precise, but there were limitations to the tool’s effectiveness. When he learned about the addition of tools to seal vessels and staple more than two years ago, he decided that the time was right to train on the system and bring more advanced surgical options to his patients. According to Dr. Kenney, the potential benefits of Single-Site surgery for patients may include virtually scarless surgery, minimal pain, low blood loss, fast recovery, a short hospital stay and high patient satisfaction. “Many of these benefits are a result of the fact that the physician only needs one small incision in the belly button to access the surgery site,” said
Dr. Kenney. “Traditional laparoscopic surgeries may use as many as four incisions in the abdomen, each leaving a scar almost an inch long. My patients have been more comfortable through the recovery process and definitely happier with the results after single site surgeries.” During the procedure, the surgeon sits comfortably at a console, viewing a 3D, high-definition image of the patient’s anatomy. The surgeon uses controls below the viewer to move the instrument arms and camera. In real-time, the system translates the
38 • Medical Answer Book™ 2014 - 2015
surgeon’s hand, wrist and finger movements into more precise movements of the miniaturized instruments inside the patient. Potential risks include conversion to other surgical techniques and multiple incisions. All surgery presents risk, including da Vinci Surgery. Serious complications may occur in any surgery, up to and including death. Other risks include injury to tissues and organs. North Fulton Hospital offers various types of robotic-assisted surgeries. In
addition to gallbladder removal and hysterectomy, North Fulton Hospital surgeons perform robotic-assisted surgery in other gynecologic cases, as well as those for general surgery, and ear, nose, and throat cases. North Fulton Hospital also offers the Mazor robot for neurosurgical cases and a wide range of minimally invasive conventional laparoscopic surgeries. For information on robotic and other minimally invasive surgeries at North Fulton Hospital, contact us at 770-751-2500 or visit our web site at www.NFultonHospital.com.
Non-invasive brain surgery coming to Northside The Cancer Center at Northside HospitalForsyth soon will be able to treat a wide range of brain tumors and other neurological conditions through the a non-invasive technology that delivers Gamma radiation. Georgia’s Department of Community Health approved Northside to purchase the Leksell Gamma Knife Perfexion with Extend system, which allows physicians to use radiosurgery to treat conditions that previously were considered inaccessible or inoperable with traditional Gamma Knife technology. The new service could be available at Northside Hospital-Forsyth by January 2016. Northside Hospital-Forsyth will be the only hospital in metro Atlanta, and one of only two in Georgia, with the Gamma Knife Extend system. The technology will be used to treat metastatic disease (cancer that has travelled to the brain from elsewhere in the body), in addition to a spectrum of benign and malignant vascular and functional disorders including arteriovenous malformations (AVMs) and Parkinson’s disease. Nearly two-thirds of all cancer patients receive radiation therapy at some point during their treatment. In 2013, Northside Hospital-Forsyth’s Cancer Center saw about 450 new cancer patients and delivered nearly 9,800 radiation therapy treatments for a variety of cancers. Gamma Knife radiosurgery, sometimes referred to as stereotactic radiosurgery, has long been considered the “gold standard” in treating brain disorders. It delivers very precisely focused high-dose beams of radiation to selected areas deep within the brain, without a scalpel and without the usual risks of surgery or an incision. However, traditional Gamma Knife technology is not able to treat some tumors because of their size or location. The Extend feature is a game-changer, allowing clinicians to non-invasively immobilize the patient’s head and making repeatable or multifraction Gamma Knife radiosurgery possible, ultimately making the technology accessible to more cancer patients. Other nationally recognized cancer centers including MD Anderson and the Cleveland Clinic also have adopted the Gamma Knife Extend technology and have found it to be the superior, and oftentimes only, treatment option for numerous intracranial lesions and conditions. Typically, a patient receiving Gamma Knife Extend radiosurgery returns home the same day
as their procedure, and side effects are generally minimal and insignificant. “More cases of cancer are diagnosed and treated at Northside Hospital each year than at any other hospital in Georgia,” said Patti Owen, MN, RN, director at Northside Hospital Cancer Institute. “We look forward to being able to offer
Gamma Knife Extend technology to our patients, and to further demonstrating our commitment to providing the most advanced cancer treatments closer to home.” For more information about the Northside Hospital Cancer Institute and stereotactic radiosurgery services available, call 404-531-4444.
Medical Answer Book™ 2014 - 2015 • 39
Forsyth County Courts begin mental health CARE program
By ALDO NAHED
Forsyth County's new Mental Health Court Change, Assist, Restore and Enlighten(CARE) Program held its first court session on March 12 to assist defendants with severe and persistent mental illness. The new program began considering defendants for entry into the program on March 1. This initiative is a combined superior and state court program allowing access to defendants within the court's target population. As the Mental Health Court CARE Program will include cases involving both misde-
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meanors and felonies, Superior Court Chief Judge Jeffrey S. Bagley authorized State Court Judge Leslie AbernathyMaddox to sit in designation as a Superior Court judge and hear those cases where felony charges are involved. The mission of the Mental Health Court CARE Program is to provide alternatives to incarcerations for individuals who have been identified with severe and persistent mental health diagnoses by linking those individuals to local, community-based treatment resources with the goal of improving public safety and help-
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ing prevent further involvement in the criminal justice system. The CARE Program will hold individuals accountable and assist defendants in achieving long-term stability to become law-abiding citizens and successful members of the community. "This accountability court program addresses an underserved population in Forsyth County by diverting defendants with severe and persistent mental illness from jail and introducing them to treatment services within the community," AbernathyMaddox said. "What we want
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to do is empower participants to make positive changes in their lives." The services provided by the CARE Program are conducted under the guidance and supervision of the court for a minimum of 24 months and utilize a combination of treatment, education, drug testing, supervision and judicial accountability. Referrals to the program can be made by the District Attorney's Office, Solicitor's Office and others. Once accepted into the program, participants in the CARE Program will receive a personalized treatment plan.
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"Each participant in the CARE Program will have a plan tailored to their individual needs," said Carol Simpson, program coordinator. "This will help ensure the participants make connections to the necessary resources within the community that will facilitate the individual's success." Grant funding was secured in 2013 to provide for the planning phase of the Mental Health Court CARE Program. The new accountability court program joins the county's existing State Court Drug Court, DUI Court and Superior Court Drug Court programs.
Sajja:
Continued from Page 31 ated with a tired or disinterested appearance. This condition can be corrected with a quick, minimally-invasive outpatient surgical procedure which is often covered by your medical insurance. Eyelid dermatochalasis or “eyelid bagginess” is related to stretching and thinning of the eyelid skin. This often affects both the upper and lower eyelids giving a puffy or wrinkled appearance. At times, the excess skin can rest on or over your eyelashes interfering with your vision. Other common complaints include eyelid redness or itchiness, tearing, or headache. Women often note difficulty applying and maintaining eye make-up, such as mascara, eyeliner or eye shadow. This condition can be significantly improved with an easy outpatient surgical procedure. Your evaluation with Dr. Sajja would determine if the procedure is covered by your medical insurance. Tearing or “watery eyes” can be separated into two main issues: producing too many tears or not effectively draining the tears away. Common complaints include blurred vision, itchiness, redness and discharge. During an evaluation with Dr. Sajja, he will perform a comprehensive examination of your eyes and your tear drainage system to determine the possible causes of your watery eyes. Based on your symp-
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toms and examination, Dr. Sajja will discuss a treatment regimen including diet, medication and surgical intervention. Many procedures are performed in the office with little to no down time and are often covered by your medical insurance. In addition, Dr. Sajja has considerable experience in cosmetic concerns of the eyelids and face employing advanced surgical techniques and facial injectables, such as Botox®, Dysport®, Xeomin®, Juvederm® XC, Radiesse®, Belotero®, and Restylane®. Dr. Sajja will perform a detailed evaluation and provide recommendations to allow you to achieve a balanced, youthful and energetic result. Patients often elect to combine functional eyelid correction with cosmetic procedures to help turn back the clock and restore a more healthy and vibrant appearance. Milan Eye Center has four convenient locations around North Atlanta: Johns Creek, Cumming, Canton, and Mall of Georgia. Milan Eye Center is a premier ophthalmology practice and is affiliated with Atlanta’s finest hospitals including Northside Forsyth, Northside Cherokee, and Emory Johns Creek Hospital. Dr. Sajja is accepting new patients at all Milan Eye Center locations. Please call 678-688-4575 or visit our website at milaneyecenter. com for more information on Dr. Sajja and to schedule your consultation today.
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See the 2014 Answer Book on NorthFulton.com (bottom left) Medical Answer Book™ 2014 - 2015 • 41
Pictured are the docotors from Milan Eye Center back row from left; Dr. Anjum Cheema, Dr. Priyal Gadani, Dr. Gina Borgnini and Dr. Kiran Sajja. Sitting from left; Dr. Vishal Patel, Dr. Milan Patel, Dr. Niraj Desai and Dr. John Barker. Photos by Abby Breaux.
Milan Eye Center uses technology to take service to the next level By CAROLYN RIDER ASPENSON
Baby boomers take note. About 20 million Americans over the age of 40 are affected by a clouding of the eye’s lens known as cataracts. But an ophthalmologic clinic is working to reduce that number. “We perform a wide range of eye procedures including eyelid surgery, Glaucoma laser treatment and LASIK,” Dr. Milan Patel said. “But cataract surgery is what we do most.” Since opening about four years
ago, Milan Eye Center has grown to three locations including Cumming, Johns Creek, Canton and a fourth location soon to be opened in Buford. Patel attributes the clinic’s growth to two factors. “Not only do we focus on providing the most advanced technology available, but we also try to provide our patients with the best level of service possible, whether it’s medical, surgical or customer service,” Patel said.
42 • Medical Answer Book™ 2014 - 2015
Milan Eye Center houses a staff of eight doctors, all with specific specialties. “We are a specialty clinic and don’t perform routine eye exams,” Patel said. “But most of our patients are referred by their regular eye doctor because of a condition we can treat.” Patel said each patient is run through a series of vision tests and given a comprehensive examination to determine their condition and the best treatment option.
“Our doctors see the patient for their first appointment,” he said. “Vision conditions cause fear in people, and we pay special attention to educating our patients about their specific condition and the treatment options available.” Patel said working with the latest technology gives the clinic an edge in both treatment options and patient comfort. “We were asked by the Ziemer Group is Switzerland to be the first clinic in the U.S. to use the Ziemer
US Eye Condition by the numbers:
• 2.3 million Americans 40 and over have Glaucoma • 2 million Americans 50 and over have age related Macular Degeneration 4.4 million Americans 40 and over have Diabetic Retinopathy • 3.2 million women and 1.68 million men over 50 suffer from dry eye
• 42,642 corneal transplants and 800,000 refractive surgical procedures were performed in the United States in 2010.
• 3.6 million Americans over the age of 40 are visually impaired
Dr. Milan Patel examines a patient’s eyes using a slit lamp.
Milan Eye Center Provides Several Eye Surgeries
• One to three Americans have astigmatism
• Eyelid Surgery • Cataract Surgery • Corneal Transplant Surgery • Glaucoma Laser Treatment • Pterygium Excision Surgery • LASIK Surgery • Narrow Angle Glaucoma • Bladeless Cataract Surgery Z 6 blade-free laser technology for astigmatism treatment at the time of cataract surgery,” he said. “And Dr. Desai has been asked to help develop their next version.” He said the blade-free technology lessens the need for the doctor to make manual incisions during cataract surgery. “For LASIK surgery, the laser creates a flap on the eye’s surface very close to the precisely programmed depth and makes the incisions for the surgeon with a laser
• 150 million Americans wear eye glasses and 36 million wear contacts
Using a model of the human eye, Dr. Niraj Desai describes cataracts to a patient. instead of a blade,” Patel said. “And we’ve been very happy with our outcomes using this technology.” Patel said his experience with the Ziemer laser has been positive. “Earlier this summer, I performed cataract surgery on my father, mother and father-in law,” he said. Most surgeries are performed on site, and they’ve created an app
to help patients before and after surgery. “Every surgery requires the patient to use eye drops before surgery and once they leave the surgery center,” he said. “Sometimes the patient forgets what we’ve discussed, or misplaces their paperwork, so we’ve developed an app to help them.” The free app, called Easy Drops,
is available on iTunes and asks patients to input their surgery date and then reminds them to use their drops. “We’ve set it up so that any eye surgeon can sign up and their patients can use the app, too,” Patel said. “The app is an excellent resource for patients going into surgery,” Patel said. “Because it also charts the patient’s progress, it truly enhances the patient process.” Patel said that aside from LASIK, most surgeries are covered by insurance and the clinic accepts most major medical plans. For more information or to schedule an appointment, visit www.milaneyecenter.com.
Medical Answer Book™ 2014 - 2015 • 43
Best of North Fulton & South Forsyth 2014 MEDICAL EDITION For 7 years, Appen Media Group has been putting on a “Best of the Best” contest for North Fulton and South Forsyth businesses, as voted on by our readers. Every year we tweak here and there to make the contest as significant and relevant as possible. Last year, for the first time, we had an awards banquet to honor and recognize the 2013 winners, an event made possible by several local business sponsors.
We had over 200 business owners, leaders, and employees join us as we sampled some of the area’s finest food and drink, heard from Mark Toro, the developer of Avalon in Alpharetta and of course announced the winners and handed out their certificates of recognition. This year we plan to throw the event again, and the attendees will be delighted with the changes. Below is the list of the Best of North Fulton & South Forsyth 2014 Medical winners.
Best Assisted Living
Best Chiropractor
Benton House: Winner Alpharetta: 678-319-3000 Johns Creek: 770-754-5446 Sugar Hill: 770-904-0099 Woodstock: 678-494-4500 Roswell: 770-993-8040 bentonhouse.com
Willis Chiropractic: Winner 317 N. Main St Alpharetta GA 30009 770-740-8740 willischiropractic.com
Parc at Duluth: 1st Runner Up 3315 Peachtree Industrial Blvd., Duluth, GA 30096 770-622-6880 parcatduluth.com
Best Audiologist North Fulton ENT: Winner Roswell: 770-343-8675 Cumming: 770-886-5821 northfultonent.com Little Listeners: 1st Runner Up 1389 Weber Industrial Drive Cumming, GA 30041 littlelistenersclinic.com 770-744-2451
Care More: 1st Runner Up 1580 Holcomb Bridge Rd #20 Roswell, GA 30076 770-640-6600 caremorechiro.com
Best Dentist
Center for Advanced Dentistry: Winner 6916 McGinnis Ferry Road, Suite 500 Suwanee, GA 30024 HiTechSmiles.com 678-894-7926 Jones Bridge Dental: 1st Runner Up 11925 Jones Bridge Rd., Suite 200 Alpharetta, GA 30005 770-772-0606 jbdentalcare.com
Best Cosmetic Surgery Best Robinson Facial Plastic Dermatologist Surgery: Winner 3400 Old Milton Parkway Building C, Suite 515 Alpharetta, GA 30005 855-337-3657 robinsonfps.com
Swan Center: 1st Runner Up 4165 Old Milton Parkway, Suite 200 East Alpharetta, GA 30005 770-667-0904 swancenteratlanta.com
44 • Medical Answer Book™ 2014 - 2015
YOU VOTED, WE REVEAL
Johns Creek Dermatology & Family Medicine: Winner 6300 Hospital Parkway, Suite 100, Johns Creek, GA 30097 770-771-6591 johnscreekdermatology.com North Atlanta Dermatology: 1st Runner Up Offices in Duluth, Suwanee & Buford, 770-814-8222 naderm.com
Best Internal Medicine Johns Creek Dermatology & Family Medicine: Winner 6300 Hospital Parkway, Suite 100 Johns Creek, GA 30097 770-771-6591 johnscreekdermatology.com Internal Medicine Associates of Johns Creek: 1st Runner Up 3340 Paddocks Parkway Suwanee, GA 30024 678-474-9633 imajohnscreek.com
Best Nutritionist Renew Health Medical: Winner 11550 Jones Bridge Rd., Ste 4 Alpharetta, GA 30022 678-297-0901 renewhealthmedical.com Citron Nutrition: 1st Runner Up citronnutrition.com
Best OB-Gyn
Peachtree Women’s Clinic: Winner Atlanta: 404-255-8022 Alpharetta: 770-521-2295 Cumming - 770-888-0188 peachtreewomensclinic.com Roswell OB-Gyn: 1st Runner Up 11975 Morris Road, Suite 200 Alpharetta, GA 30005 770-751-3600 roswellobgyn.org
Best Oncologist Georgia Cancer Specialists: Winner 3330 Preston Ridge Road, Suite 110 Alpharetta, GA 30005 678-566-6995 GaCancer.com Atlanta Cancer Care: 1st Runner Up Multiple Locations around Metro Atlanta 770-740-9664 atlantacancercare.com
Whoopee! Thank you for voting Benton House “Best Senior Living Community!”
Offering Personal Care and Specialized Memory Care Services
Alpharetta • 678-319-3000
Sugar Hill • 770-904-0099
Johns Creek • 770-754-5446
Woodstock • 678-494-4500
www.bentonhouse.com Medical Answer Book™ 2014 - 2015 • 45
Best of North Fulton & South Forsyth 2014 Best Ophthalmologist Milan Eye Center: Winner 6300 Hospital Pkwy Suite 325 Johns Creek, Ga 970 Sanders Rd Suite 100 Cumming, Ga, 678-787-4575 milaneyecenter.com
Thomas Eye Group: 1st Runner Up 11690 Alpharetta Hwy, Roswell 30076 770-475-5515 1120 Peachtree Industrial Blvd., Suite 101, Suwanee, 30024 770-809-3366 thomaseyegroup.com
Best Optometrist Milan Eye Center: Winner 6300 Hospital Pkwy Suite 325 Johns Creek, Ga 30097 970 Sanders Rd Suite 100 Cumming, Ga 30041 678-787-4575,
Thank You
milaneyecenter.com Windward Eye Care: 1st Runner Up 5315-F Windward Parkway Alpharetta, GA 30004 678-393 2025 atlantaeyecare.com
Best Orthodontist Dr. Jeffery W. Jordan Orthodontics: Winner 4205 North Point Pkwy., Bldg. B, Alpharetta, GA 3002 770-751-1240 JWJordan.com
Alpharetta | Cumming | Dunwoody | Johns Creek Serving the Atlanta community since 1968.
Mibab Orthodontics: 1st Runner Up 9570 Nesbit Ferry Rd. Ste 202 Alpharetta, GA 30022 (770) 552-6800 mibabortho.com
Best Pediatrician Douglas L. Williams, MD, FAAP
Renee A. Alli, MD, FAAP
Stephen H. Smith, MD, FAAP
Annette M. Hinchcliffe, MD, FAAP
Sue W. Chastain, Richelle A. Gonzalez, Glenda V. Pettaway, MD, FAAP MD, FAAP MD, FAAP
Stacey Rosenberg, RN, CPNP
Anila A. Bhimani, RN, CPNP
Vivien Haupt, MSN, CPNP
For your convenience our offices are open Monday through Saturday. Please visit our website or contact us by phone for office hours or to schedule an appointment. Alpharetta Office: Cumming Office: Dunwoody Office: Johns Creek Office: 3400A Old Milton Parkway 416 Pirkle Ferry Road 11 Dunwoody Park 6300 Hospital Parkway Suite 510 Suite J300 Suite 190 Suite 125 Alpharetta, GA 30005 Cumming, GA 30040 Dunwoody, GA 30338 Johns Creek, GA 30097 770.475.2233 770.889.9142 770.392.6555 770.814.8883
Visit us on the web at www.GeorgetownPediatrics.com 46 • Medical Answer Book™ 2014 - 2015
Georgetown Pediatrics: Winner Multiple Area Locations 770-475-2233 georgetownpedicatrics.com Roswell Pediatrics: 1st Runner Up Multiple Area Locations Phone: 770-751-0800 roswellpediatrics.com
Best Podiatrist North Fulton Podiatry: Winner 1380 Upper Hembree Rd, Roswell 30076 770-346-7500
Village Podiatry Centers: 1st Runner Up 1350 Upper Hembree Road, Ste 100, Roswell, GA 30076 770 663 8011 vpcenters.com
Best Urgent Care Bethany Bend Urgent Care: Winner 13081 Highway 9 Alpharetta, GA 30004 770-521-6690 bethanybendurgentcare.com CHOA of Mansell and Forsyth: 1st Runner Up Multiple Atlanta Locations choa.org
Best Urologist
Georgia Urology: Winner Multiple Atlanta Area Locations 888-503-1842 gaurology.com North Atlanta Urology: 1st Runner Up 993C Johns Ferry Road Northeast, ste 120 Atlanta, GA 30342 404-256-5332 northatlantaurology.com
Best Vein Specialist
VeinInnovations: Winner 4255 Johns Creek Pkwy, Suite D, Suwanee, GA 30024 678-731-9815 5673 Peachtree Dunwoody Rd, Suite 340 Atlanta, GA 30342 678-731-9815 veininnovations.com North Georgia Vein Institute: 1st Runner Up 4415 Front Nine Drive, ste 600 Cumming, Ga 30041 678-513-1600 6002 Highway 53, ste 100 Dawsonville, GA 30534 northgeorgiavein.com
Vote for best restaurant in September on NorthFulton.com
BEST OF THE BEST BUSINESS:
Benton House succeeds with smaller one-level communities The Benton House family of communities is proud to win their 2nd consecutive “Best Of” award. When asked why Benton House is such a popular choice in the area Regional Community Relations Director Julia Banks says “I think part of our appeal is our community design. Both families and residents appreciate that our community is all on one level. Many of our residents are coming from multi-story homes where stairs are a major issue so they like that all of our common areas and apartments are easily accessible.”
Another major benefit cited by residents and families is the overall size of the community. “Our senior living capacity is only around 50 residents. This is a size large enough to have wonderful parties and social events each month but also small enough where every resident knows one another and the staff can really get to know each resident. Likewise our key-pad protected memory care neighborhood only serves around 16-20 residents so the environment feels more like home.” Julia adds, “Families
• Alzheimer and Dementia Care • Transportation and Errands • Bathing, Dressing and Light Housekeeping • Fall Risk Care
constantly cite our family-vibe as the number one reason they choose our communities. When you visit a Benton House it just feels different. And many families remark about how closely the residents interact with both staff
• Caregivers Available from 1 hr./day to 24/7 and Live-in • Assisted Living Placement Assistance
and each other. Of course, that is primarily a tribute to the residents and staff who choose to make Benton House home but creating a winning design is certainly part of the process.” Benton House offers
services in 9 Atlanta area locations including “Best of “winners for this publication--Johns Creek, Alpharetta, Sugar Hill and Woodstock. To learn how Benton House might be of service to you and your family, please call 678-297-0388.
Thank you for Voting! Best Chiropractor 6 Years in a Row 2009-2014
• Custom and Flexible Schedules
Dr. Gary Willis
Willis Chiroprac�c
Dr. Andrew Wiese
Senior Helpers: Matt Fredenberg, Elizabeth Jackson, Pam Hodgson, Hutch Hodgson
770.442.2154 Your Local Senior Care Expert.
317 N. Main Street, Alphare�a 30009 (770) 740-8740 | www.willischiroprac�c.com Medical Answer Book™ 2014 - 2015 • 47
Health care law makes employers rethink business plans By ALDO NAHED
Dr. Karen Minyard knew even before the Affordable Care Act passed that her
workload would be tripled. Her predictions were right. Minyard, director and
associate research professor with the Georgia Health Policy Center at Georgia State Uni-
Every month should be colon cancer screening month.
Here’s what you need to know: • If you have certain risk factors, or if you are over 50, you should have a colonoscopy. Here’s what you need to know about us: • Our practice specializes in the diagnosis, treatment and prevention of gastrointestinal and liver diseases, including colon cancer screening, Crohns, Colitis and acid reflux. • Hudes Endoscopy Center is AAAHC accredited, private outpatient facility, providing you the highest quality care in a state-of-the-art, comfortable and convenient facility. • Our pre-cancerous polyp detection rate exceeds the published national average by 40%!
Brian Hudes, M.D. Medical Director Dimple Raina, M.D. F. Edward LeVert, M.D. Long B. Nguyen, D.O.
, LLC
, LLC
4275 Johns Creek Pkwy, Ste. A, Suwanee, GA 30024 www.advgastro.com 678.475.1606 The internal quality improvement survey/study, the findings and information on the national standards are available on file at Hudes Endoscopy Center.
48 • Medical Answer Book™ 2014 - 2015
versity's Andrew Young School of Policy Studies, recently shared her years of research and understanding of the complicated health care reform, which affects every American, with local business leaders. The remarks were made at a Healthcare Association of Forsyth summit held to address how the Affordable Care Act has business owners rethinking their strategic plans. Minyard said some people are more affected by the changes than others and small businesses are no exception. Those who spoke at the event were passionately opposed to the law. A woman said she was fired by her health care employer because they didn't want to pay her family's premium increases. A doctor in the audience said the costs to implement the health care changes at his practice will likely put him out of business. The new health care law does have some bright sides. Small employers who have offered insurance to their 25 or fewer low-wage workers were able to receive a tax credit. "The purpose of this was to encourage them to keep offering insurance," Minyard said. "That's something that is scheduled to increase, the amount of tax credit that is allowed to small business over the next couple of years, and then phase out." Smaller employers are encouraged to keep offering insurance during the transition, but this credit goes away by 2016. With the way the law is structured, the size of the firm makes a difference. The law, which says that
businesses that are larger than 50 employees have to offer insurance or pay a penalty, was postponed for a year. Those employers who don't provide health insurance will be spared penalties, called "shared responsibility payments," of up to $3,000 until 2015. "If you offer less than essential benefit, a very high-cost and limited health plan that doesn't qualify and if your workers go to the health insurance exchange and receive a subsidy, you will have to pay $3,000 for those workers," Minyard said. Minyard said these large employers should discuss their best option with an insurance broker. "This becomes a complicated situation," Minyard said. "There may be some cases where it makes sense to some of the folks to buy health insurance through the exchange and the employer paying the penalty and maybe offering insurance in a different way." The health insurance exchange, which is equal to a store where people can buy insurance, will be based on the federal poverty level. There are two parts to the health insurance exchange, one for individuals and one for small businesses; however, many users have experienced trouble with the site's log-in process. "There are a lot of glitches and it's uncertain as to whether these are the typical kinds of problems that you have when you start a new complicated website, or if there are more challenging
See PLANS, Page 49
Plans:
Continued from Page 48 issues related to software and programming," Minyard told attendees. Insurance subsidies are available to cover people who fall between 100 to 400 percent of the federal poverty level, Minyard said. Every American will be required to obtain a standard health care insurance or pay a penalty. In Georgia, there are about 600,000 people who make 138 percent of poverty level and would be eligible to participate in Medicaid. "Every group has to strategically change their business plan," Minyard said. "And that's true for employers of every size because there are
Dr. Karen Minyard, director and associate research professor with the Georgia Health Policy Center at Georgia State University's Andrew Young School of Policy Studies, addressing business leaders last year.
different decisions to be made about this." For a more comprehensive nonpartisan understanding of the health care law, visit GSU's Andrew Young School of Policy Studies site at www.bit. ly/19Na3M6.
WE KEEP YOU MOVING • Power Mobility • Lift Chairs • Portable Ramps • Modular Ramps • Durable Medical Equipment • Car Lifts
SALES RENTAL REPAIR
Please contact us at: 888-792-0301, option 1
www.heavenlywheels.com
6375 McGinnis Ferry Rd., Ste. 101 • Johns Creek, GA 30005
When a sports injury occurs, Johns Creek Diagnostic Center takes care of your medical imaging needs in a private and relaxed environment, with compassion, comfort and quality as priorities. And even with our state-of-the-art equipment, we still charge up to 75% less than the hospitals. As one of the first outpatient imaging centers in Johns Creek, we’ve
been providing medical imaging and diagnosis to thousands of patients since 2006. We offer quick, no-hassle appointments, accept all insurance plans and we offer affordable self-pay rates for the uninsured. To schedule an appointment or for directions, please give us a call. We want to help get you back to the sports and activities you love.
6920 McFinnis Ferry Road, Suite 300, Suwanee, GA 30024 Phone 678.835.2299 / Fax 678.835.2296 OUR DIAGNOSTIC IMAGING SERVICES INCLUDE: MRI, MRA, CT, CTA, ULTRASOUND, X-RAY
www.jcdcinfo.com Medical Answer Book™ 2014 - 2015 • 49
About PillCam
World focuses on metro Atlanta for healthcare innovation
By PAT FOX
Metro Atlanta is the backbone of the state’s multi-billion-dollar health care market, and the world is taking notice. Georgia leads the country with more than 225 health information technology companies. Eight of those rank in the top 100 in the nation, and seven are in metro Atlanta. The area also garners global interest in its expertise and cutting-edge facilities, like Emory Healthcare Systems, for the development, testing and practice of healthcare. The global market for health-related products, services and expertise has been growing, particularly over the past few years, and particularly in Asia. Just last year, a delegation from Sandy Springs, home to more than 40 percent of the hospital beds in metro Atlanta, sent a delegation of city and business leaders to its sister city in Taicang, China, to discuss trade. Healthcare was one of the key markets discussed.
“Sandy Springs has the largest concentration of healthcare facilities between Washington and Houston,” said James Comerford, managing director of Proscenium Capital and chairman of the city’s Economic Advisory Committee. Sandy Springs is targeting a developing need in China: care for the elderly. China’s one-child mandate and the massive move of the younger population to cities has created a growing need for eldercare, Comerford said. Grandparents no longer have large families to rely on for care as they grow more dependent. And, the families they do have may not be nearby. “’What do we do with the grandparents?’ is the question that now confronts the Chinese,” Comerford said. “So what they’re reaching out to us for is expertise as to how does either private enterprise, or the state, then provide eldercare? They’ve never been in that business before.”
50 • Medical Answer Book™ 2014 - 2015
Comerford said conversations are continuing with the Chinese government as to how Sandy Springs can best fill that need. “We really focused it on some areas of expertise that we thought Sandy Springs had a very good base in,” he said. “We’ve got great intellectual knowledge in an area of health care that is now one of the greater societal issues facing the Chinese.” Gwinnett County has included its substantial portfolio of healthcare services in its frequent dealings with the Asia market, primarily South Korea. Some of the discussions deal with recruitment of doctors, while others deal with selling the services already in hand, said Nick Masino, senior vice president of economic development and Partnership Gwinnett, an arm of the Gwinnett Chamber of Commerce. “We had our three biggest providers, Gwinnett Medical, Eastside Medical and Kaiser, all recently make multi-million dollar upgrades to their fa-
cilities,” Masino said. “So our healthcare is well regarded.” Some of the interchange involves patients from other countries visiting Gwinnett facilities to obtain a second opinion, Masino said. “We’ve had visitors from Bangladesh, China and South Korea to get second opinions or diagnoses” he said. Asia is not the only target audience. Israel has also created a robust market for medical technology. One of the leading companies is Given Imaging, developer of the PillCam, a small capsule swallowed by a patient to provide doctors with a glimpse inside the human body. The Israeli-based firm has American headquarters in Duluth. Nearby, in Alpharetta, Israeli-based Alpha Omega provides cutting-edge neuroscience technology to world markets. Alpharetta-based EndoChoice is another medical device company that has forged a global path.
The PillCam COLON video capsule is equipped with two miniature color video cameras. Designed to be ingested by the patient, PillCam transmits for approximately 10 hours to a recording device worn by the patient. The video data is reviewed by a physician. The company, founded in 2008, has been named by Inc. Magazine as one of the fastest growing companies in the United States for four years running. Its product line includes the patented Full Spectrum Endoscopy System which provides doctors a broader view of a patient’s gastrointestinal tract. France is another country courting the region for investment in health care. Late last month, a delegation of six health IT companies, along with representatives from the French government met in Atlanta to discuss shared markets. There are a lot of French companies interested in Atlanta, said Marie Laumont, executive director of the French American Chamber of Commerce for the Southeast. Healthcare is one of the chamber’s key focuses. But the country’s interest is not limited to people. Merial, a division of Parisbased Sanofi, is headquartered in Duluth. The company has a global market for its animal health products, including research and production of vaccines. “We know that the health care industry is emerging in this area,” Laumont said. “We are telling French businesses that this is the place to be in order to be best in the healthcare industry in the U.S.”
NEEDED MEDICAL PROCEDURES FOR SENIORS TO MAINTAIN OPTIMUM HEALTH
SENIOR HEALTH First and foremost: Get regular checkups. However, these other tests are also necessary as you age.
If you have hearing loss, you are not alone. Start by asking your doctor for a hearing test. Your doctor may refer you to a hearing specialist.
Hearing Hearing test: If you are over age 65, get your hearing checked. Many people lose their hearing slowly as they age. One out of three Americans between ages 65 and 74 has a hearing problem. Half of adults over age 75 have a hearing problem.
Pneumonia shot: If you are age 65 or older, ask your doctor for a pneumonia shot. This shot is called PPV. Pneumonia is a serious illness that can sometimes lead to death, especially in older adults. The good news is that some types of pneumonia can be prevented. If you get the pneumonia shot at age 65, you should be protected from the most common type of bacterial pneumonia for the rest of your life. Bone density test: A bone density test will find out how strong your bones are. The test will tell you if you are
at risk for osteoporosis. If you are age 65 or older, schedule a bone density test. If you are age 60 to 64, talk to your doctor about testing your bone density. If you are at risk for osteoporosis, your doctor may recommend getting a bone density test every two years. A bone density test doesn’t hurt. It’s like an x–ray or scan of your body. It only takes about 15 minutes. Flu shot: Get a seasonal flu shot every year to prevent the flu. The seasonal flu shot is especially important for adults ages 50 and up. It’s also a good idea to get a flu shot if you live or work with people at high risk for complications from the seasonal flu. For example, get a flu shot if you live with an adult age 65 or older or work in a daycare or nursing home.
ed before age 50 if colorectal cancer runs in your family, so talk to your doctor. There are many ways to have your colon checked. Some tests are done every one to two years. Other tests are done every five to 10 years. How often you get screened will depend on your risk of colorectal cancer. Your doctor can help you decide which test is right for you and how often you need to get screened.
ANEURISM
visIon
CANCER Colorectal cancer test: If you are age 50 or older, get tested regularly for colorectal cancer. All it takes is a visit to the doctor to have a special exam called a screening. You may need to get test-
You will read charts with letters and numbers to check your vision. The doctor will also do tests to look for problems with your eyes, including glaucoma.
Vision test: If you are age 65 or older, have your eyes checked every one to two years. People with diabetes should have their eyes checked more often. Regular eye exams help your doctor find eye problems early, when they can be easily treated. T here are two types of doctors that can perform an eye exam: optometrists and ophthalmologists The doctor will put drops in your eyes to enlarge (or dilate) your pupils. A dilated eye exam is the only way to find some types of eye disease.
Aneurism test: If you are a man age 65 to 75 and have ever smoked, talk with your doctor about abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA). Your doctor may order an ultrasound test to check for AAA. An ultrasound uses sound waves to look inside the body. The risk of AAA increases as you get older, and it’s more likely to happen in people between the ages of 60 and 80. Men are much more likely than women to have an AAA. You are eight times more likely to develop an aneurysm if you smoke. Aneurysms usually grow slowly with no symptoms. If they grow large enough to burst (or break open), aneurysms can cause dangerous bleeding and death. If AAA is found early, it can be treated to stop it from bursting. Source: U.S. Department of Health and Human Services
Medical Answer Book™ 2014 - 2015 • 51
Timeline of Medical Appointments Shingles
Bone Density, Aortic Aneurysm
Glaucoma, Eye Disease, Thyroid
Prostate, Breast Cancer screens
Zoster
Tdap
HPV
MCV4
Hep A
Varicella
MMR
Flu
IPV
PCV
Hib
DTaP
RV
Hep B
Birth 1 month 2 months 4 months 6 months 9 months 12 months 15 months 18 months 19-23 months 2-3 years 4-6 years 7-10 years 11-12 years 13-18 years 19-21 years 22-26 years 27-49 years 50-59 years 60-64 years >64 years Hep B - Hepatitis B RV - Rotavirus DTaP - Diptheria, Tetanus, Pertussis Hib - Haemophilus influenza type B PCV - Pneumococcal IPC - Inactivated Poliovirus For all persons in this category who meet the age requirements and who lack documentation of vaccination or have no evidence of previous infection
Flu - Influenza MMR - Measles, Mumps, Rubella Hep A - Hepatitus A MCV4 - Meningococcal HPV - Human Papillomavirus TDaP - Tetanus, Diptheria, Pertussis Range of recommended ages for catch-up immunization
Recommended if some other risk factor is present
* Information courtesy of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and Group Health Cooperative. 52 • Medical Answer Book™ 2014 - 2015
Newborn
Within just days of birth and discharge from a hospital, a child should visit a pediatrician. This type of physician specializes in the care of children, whose bodies are different from adults. A pediatrician will tell you if a newborn has any medical problems that cause concern, what their initial weight is and what you can expect for their growth, development and eating habits.
Toddler Years
During this time period, a child often sees a doctor more frequently than not, simply because of their developing immune systems and the exposure to childhood germs. However, in the absence of germs or injuries, it is a good idea to have a well visit once per year until the age of 10. Doctors will usually recommend the standard continued course of immunizations, including the chicken pox vaccine, which is not given until the child is at least 1 year old.
5 years Old
A child that is ready for Kindergarten will need to go to the pediatrician to be screened and immunized, in most cases. The screenings consist of hearing, vision and sometimes blood pressure or cholesterol tests. Also, the doctor’s office can give you the necessary forms for enrollment in a public school. Not crazy about vaccines, but still want to enroll your child in school? Schools now accept waivers (available at your school office) that allow parents who do not immunize to request enrollment for their child in school without having such vaccinations.
Early Childhood
From the ages of 6 to 10, annual well visits to the pediatrician are sufficient.
10 Years Old
Children usually go for another round of vaccinations.
11-18 Years Old
Keep in mind that at any point in the teen years when a child is participating in sports, most schools will require the student to undergo a routine physical to make certain that the student is healthy enough to participate in athletics.
18 Years Old
Many colleges require a physical examination
upon acceptance to their school, and the paperwork involved with those tests may be required in order to attend classes. Along with proof of a physical exam, colleges will want to verify that a college-aged student has had all the required childhood immunizations. Young women at this age may also begin to schedule visits to a gynecologist, in order to schedule an annual Pap smear test. Women should begin breast self-examinations as well. At this stage of early adulthood until senior care, most adults will begin to fill out questionnaires that detail their health history. Questionnaires help physicians to pinpoint risk factors, and evaluate family history issues and other general health concerns. Once an adult enters the workforce and obtains health care coverage, a questionnaire is mandatory and must be filled out in order to qualify for health care. Typical questions refer to past medical history, family history, whether the person is a smoker, consumption of alcohol, drug use and any prior surgeries.
20s to 40s
Adults should undergo cholesterol and blood pressure checks every 5 years, along with Tetanus and diphtheria boosters every 10 years. There are really no other recommended tests, unless a patient has an increased risk factor or family history of a specific disease or disorder. Skin checks for irregular moles and changes in the skin are recommended for everyone. Regular dental check-ups (twice per year) also provide optimal dental health. The influenza vaccine is now recommended for all ages.
40s for Men
For men, 40 is the age at which doctors may begin to recommend a prostate cancer screening. Based on risk factors or family history, this recommendation may come earlier. But between the ages of 45 and 50, most men will receive the test for prostate cancer. The American Urological Association recommends a first PSA (prostate specific antigen) test at the age of 40 for most men. In a man’s mid-40s, doctors recommend a screen for Type-2 Diabetes as well.
40s for Women
Guidelines for mammograms change often, but as of now, doctors recommend a mammogram
every year or two for women who are 40 and older. Beginning at age 45, doctors also recommend a cholesterol check for women and a blood pressure check every other year. A bone density scan may be performed if the patient is concerned about their specific risk of osteoporosis.
50s for Men
By the age of 55, doctors begin to recommend testing for glaucoma, an eye disease that damages the optic nerve. Both men and women at this stage will most likely be checked for thyroid imbalances, eyesight deficiencies and blood sugar issues.
50s for Women
Once women reach the age of 50, doctors recommend that in addition to the battery of screens used in their 40s, women also begin colon cancer screenings.
60s
Doctors are beginning to recommend the Shingles vaccine around the age of 60 for both men and women. This is a once-in-a-lifetime shot that provides protection against the emergence of Shingles. Hearing evaluations are also important at this age, since nearly 33 percent of the population age 65 and older experiences hearing loss.
65 and Older – Men
Men are now encouraged to undergo testing for abdominal aortic aneurysms. This screening only occurs once, and is typically done after the age of 65.
Women
In addition to all of the previous tests, doctors may now begin to perform a bone density test. With age, women lose calcium, which causes bone breakage and weakness. A bone density scan will provide information on the strength of a woman’s bones. Since the incidence of falls also increases at this age, doctors highly recommend this test. Doctors can also administer a pneumococcal vaccination, which is a one-time shot, providing protection against pneumonia. Information compiled from Group Health Cooperative (ghc.org), pgeverydaysolutions.comand webmd.com.
Medical Answer Book™ 2014 - 2015 • 53
Health care reform overhauls benefits Biggest changes for individuals, young adults, small and large businesses By JESSA PEASE 54 • Medical Answer Book™ 2014 - 2015
M
ost Americans have heard the term Affordable Care Act, but many might not understand what it really means, and more importantly, what it means for them personally. Currently, individuals have a choice in whether or not they have health insurance. Employers are also not mandated to offer coverage for their employees, meaning, there are no penalties if they choose not to offer any. All of that is going to change when the 2,000-page law goes into effect Jan. 1, 2014. On Oct. 1, the market exchange for health insurance will be required to be available and announced to all Americans and the actual exchange and benefits eligibility will occur Jan. 1, said Trinette Edge, manager of human resources for Atlantabased Cousins Properties. Because the health care reform is so complex, it can be broken up into categories so citizens can better understand how they will be impacted.
Individuals: One of the main components of health care reform is the individual mandate, which requires that all U.S. citizens have some form of minimum essential health insurance beginning Jan. 1, 2014. Any citizen who does not have the required benefits will have to pay the greater of 1 percent of their total income or $95 in penalties, said Todd Gordon, president of the Benefits Group. The main difference in this category is no person can be turned away from health insurance because of previous health conditions. “People won’t have to worry about not being insurable,” said Ted Officer, president of USA-Health Insurance. “The rates are the same as your next door neighbor, who is all the same
Health coverage
• About 3 million 18-24 year-olds in the U.S. currently purchase their own insurance. • About 44 million people in U. S. have no health insurance, and another 38 million have inadequate health insurance.
demographics as you, even if they have health issues and you don’t.” Gordon said there are only four factors health insurance can be based on for individuals and small group policies: geographic location, family composition, tobacco use and age. All tobacco users are subject to health insurance rates 50 percent higher than non-tobacco users. Financial assistance for health care coverage from the federal government will also be available for people within 100 percent to 400 percent of the federal poverty level. “If you are single and make $11,000 a year, you get most of your health insurance paid for including co-pays and deductibles,” Officer said. “If you make $45,000 a year, you get a little of it paid for. It’s a sliding scale.”
Young adults: One of the four factors health insurance can be based on is age, and young people are going to be hit the hardest, Officer said. Currently, age is factored at a 7-1 ratio, meaning a 60-year-old would pay seven times as much as a 20-yearold. In 2014, that will be narrowed to a 3-1 ratio, Officer said. A 60-year-old will only be allowed to pay three times more, but the 60-year-old’s rates are going to stay the same or possibly go down a small amount, according to Officer. The 20-year-old’s rate is going to increase significantly. “That’s going to be the hardest part of this thing,
said. “If you were deemed to be a part-time employee working 32 hours a week and not eligible for benefits, under the healthcare reform you would be eligible.” The law doesn’t say that an employer has to provide insurance, Gordon said, it actually just says businesses have a choice. If a business chooses not to provide health insurance, they will pay a penalty. If they choose to offer health insurance, they still may have to pay a penalty depending upon whether it meets a minimum actuarial value and that it is affordable to employees. Affordability means employees will only pay up to 9.5 percent of their income for health insurance. Employers are going to bring current plans up to the new reform or terminate their current plan and face financial penalties for not offering healthcare for their employees, Edge said. There are two taxes under the employer mandate referred to as the “sledgehammer tax” and the “tackhammer tax,” according to Gordon. The sledgehammer tax applies to businesses of 50 or more who choose not to offer insurance to their employees. If they have an employee who goes to the exchange and qualifies for a federal subsidy, a $2,000 tax per employee – excluding the first 30 employees – will be charged to the company, Gordon said. The tack-hammer tax is when the employer offers coverage and it is either not affordable to the employee
Insurance plans for individuals and small businesses must provide at least 10 categories of essential health benefits:
1. 2. 3. 4. 5.
Ambulatory patient services Emergency services Hospitalization Maternity and newborn care Mental health and substance use disorder services, including behavioral health treatment 6. Prescription drugs 7. Rehabilitative and habilitative services and devices 8. Laboratory services 9. Preventive and wellness services and chronic disease management 10. Pediatric services, including oral and vision care Source: http://healthaffairs.org
or doesn’t meet the minimum actuarial value, Gordon said. When the employee goes to the exchange and qualifies for a federal subsidy, the company is charged a $3,000 tax for that individual. If a large business decides to offer health insurance, it would be a group rate and the plan would be based on the average sex, age and claims history of the group. Edge said the company will determine what they paid in claims the previous year and charge a percentage to the employees before dividing it up. “I think with large businesses, it will be a combination of doing a full assessment of their employees,” Edge said. “They will also do a full assessment of the cost of making existing employees eligible for healthcare benefits versus reducing the hours and bringing on more employees.”
Small business employers and employees:
“Pay and play mandate” doesn’t apply to small businesses that have less than 50 or equivalent full-time employees, but there are rules as far as what the benefits can look like for their employees. Small businesses have to include 10 minimum essential health benefits (see box). “For small businesses, the big change is that we are moving to a community rating pricing structure,” Gordon said. “Health insurance rates for individuals as well as small group policies of less than 50 can only be based on those four factors.” Officer said a lot of small companies will dump their group plans and give an allowance for healthcare instead. “They will give a fixed rate a month and employees can get their own insurance,” Gordon said. “They will set it up as a health reimbursement arrangement, so that someone is monitoring it ensuring it is used only for health insurance.”
Medical Answer Book™ 2014 - 2015 • 55
COMPANIES FOCUS BENEFITS ON MORE THAN JUST MEDICAL COVERAGE
By CAROLYN RIDDER ASPENSON
With changes in healthcare coverage options, local companies are offering out-of-the box options to their employees. Acworth-based Heritage Corporate Benefits, a health insurance brokerage, has several clients enrolled in their wellness programs. Health and Wellness Manager Marie Saunders said their clients focus on physical wellness, but companies are moving toward adding more mental wellness options to wellness packages. “Times are tough for many,” Saunders said. “Employers want to help their employees handle the emotional stresses of life, too.” Saunders said companies are setting up individualized programs targeting employee’s specific concerns. “We create programs for people dealing with financial stress, problems at home and in the workplace,” Saunders said. “We’re seeing a trend for companies to target wellness as a whole package, not just the physical aspect.” It’s common for personal concerns to impact production and work issues certainly impact one’s personal life, said Pete Smith of Duluth-based McCart Group. Wellness packages provide ways for employees to tackle these types of issues properly and thus, live happier lives. “There is a lot that goes into a wellness package today,” Smith said. “From home-grown fitness programs to educational seminars.” Automation Direct, a Cummingbased automation and industrial controls product company, provides employees with an in-house gym and Weight Watchers program. In addition, they offer a smoking cessation and chronic illness management program. “Because of the changes in healthcare policy, we’ve put together programs to help improve the overall wellness of our employees,” said Mary Brehl, a human services coordinator at Automation Direct. “We’re seeing
Acworth-based Heritage Corporate Benefits offers unique coverage including mental wellness options. about 90 percent participation from our employees.” Brehl said several employees have lost weight, quit smoking and eliminated prescription medications while participating in the company’s wellness program. “It’s exciting to see people taking control of their health,” Brehl said. “We’re thrilled to be able to offer assistance in doing that.”
56 • Medical Answer Book™ 2014 - 2015
Automation Direct is one of several companies in metro Atlanta to focus on wellness. Automation Direct’s wellness program focuses on the whole person, too. “Our company has a strong focus on a commonly used concept called the Wheel of Life,” Brehl said. “Six spokes represent achievable goals for areas of life including family,
career, social, financial, physical and spiritual.“If these spokes are in balance, a person has a rounded wheel that can spin freely and handle the ups and down of the road of life, but if out of balance, the wheel cannot spin without difficulty.”Brehl said they focus on providing a work environment and program to round out the wheel.“It’s good for the employee and ultimately for the company, too.”
Q&A on breast cancer What is a mammogram?
A mammogram is an xray of the breast. Mammograms can be used to check for breast cancer in women who have no signs or symptoms of the disease. Screening mammograms can also find microcalcifications (tiny deposits of calcium) that sometimes indicate the presence of breast cancer.
How are screening and diagnostic mammograms different?
Diagnostic mammograms take longer than screening mammograms because they involve more x-rays in order to obtain views of the breast from several angles. The technician may magnify a suspicious area to produce a detailed picture that can help the doctor make an
accurate diagnosis.
When does the National Cancer Institute recommend that women have screening mammograms?
Women age 40 and older should have mammograms every one to two years. Women who are at higher than average risk of breast cancer should talk with their health care providers about whether to have mammograms before age 40 and how often to have them.
What are the factors that place a woman at increased risk of breast cancer?
The risk of breast cancer increases gradually as a woman gets older. However, the risk of developing breast cancer is not the same for all women. Research has shown that the
following factors increase a woman’s chance of developing this disease: Personal history of breast cancer — Women who have had breast cancer are more likely to develop a second breast cancer. Family history — A woman’s chance of developing breast cancer increases if her mother, sister, and/or daughter have been diagnosed with the disease, especially if they were diagnosed before age 50. Having a close male blood relative with breast cancer also increases a woman’s risk of developing the disease.
What are the chances that a woman in the U.S. might develop breast cancer?
Age is the most important risk factor for breast cancer. The older a woman is,
the greater her chance of developing breast cancer. Most breast cancers occur in women over the age of 50. The NCI fact sheet Probability of Breast Cancer in American Women provides more information about lifetime risk. This fact sheet is available at http://www. cancer.gov.
What is the best method of detecting breast cancer as early as possible?
Getting a high-quality screening mammogram and having a clinical breast exam (an exam done by a health care provider) on a regular basis are the most effective ways to detect breast cancer early. Checking one’s own breasts for lumps or other unusual changes is called a breast self-exam, or BSE. Breast self-exams cannot replace regular screening mammograms or clinical
breast exams. In clinical trials (research studies), breast self-exams alone have not been found to help reduce the number of deaths from breast cancer.
What are the benefits of screening mammograms?
Several large studies conducted around the world show that breast cancer screening with mammograms reduces the number of deaths from breast cancer for women ages 40 to 69, especially for those over age 50. Studies conducted to date have not shown a benefit from regular screening mammograms, or from a baseline screening mammogram (a mammogram used for comparison), in women under age 40. Source: National Cancer Institute
Medical Answer Book™ 2014 - 2015 • 57
One unifying effort to prevent infections in hospitals is to make sure that doctors and patients frequently wash their hands.
Best hospitals employ strict practices to safeguard patients
By PAT FOX
Hospitals constantly work to improve on their safety records, but recent reports show patients are still at risk of mortal errors while under care. A 2014 report by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention claims that one in 25 hospitalized patients suffers from an infection contracted in a healthcare facility. These infections affect more than 600,000 patients each year, the study, published in the New England Journal of Medicine, says. Moreover, a May 2014 article in Consumer Reports suggests that miscommunication between doctors, staff and patients contribute significantly to the hospital mortality rate. While all hospitals have a list of procedures to guard against these threats, the reports suggest that the best ones incorporate them into their culture. Emory Healthcare Systems, the state’s highest-ranked hospital system
according to a U.S. News and World Report survey, takes these reports seriously, said Dr. William Bornstein, chief quality officer and chief medical BORNSTEIN officer for Emory Healthcare. While the safety rankings are valuable tools hospitals use to address strengths and weaknesses, he said, they are not perfect. The data collected may not be complete and up to date and it may not factor in the complex mix of patients one hospital treats over another, he said. Emory, for example, treats a variety of patients who tend to have multiple health issues and must undergo complex treatments, while other community hospitals serve a much less diverse clientele. Nevertheless, Emory has garnered stellar rankings from the University
58 • Medical Answer Book™ 2014 - 2015
Health System Consortium, in their Quality & Accountability Scorecard developed in 2005, which attempts to include these patient variables in the rankings it issues. Among the more than 100 academic medical centers that participate across the nation, the Consortium ranked Emory University Hospital No. 2 and the Emory University Midtown facility No. 3. Bornstein said one of the key threats receiving a lot of attention are central line-associated bloodstream infections, which occur when germs enter the bloodstream through a tube placed in a large vein. The CDC estimates these infections lead to thousands of deaths each year and billions of dollars in added costs to the U.S. healthcare system. “We’re very focused on what we’d call a checklist for central line insertion,” Bornstein said. Those safeguards include gloves and gowns for those performing the procedure, maintaining sterile conditions throughout
the duration and removing the tube as soon as it is no longer necessary. He said the same reasoning and safeguards are applied to the use of bladder catheters, whether they are necessary and whether they are well maintained. Using the best sterile techniques also applies to treating the skin site of a surgical wound, he added. “One of the unifying efforts across all the infections is to make sure that everybody is doing effective hand hygiene,” Bornstein said. “We’ve put in reminder systems, and are exploring some automated systems that can remind caregivers when they go in and out of a room.” Northeast Georgia Medical Center in Gainesville has culled from other industries, such as airlines and nuclear power facilities, that address human factors in risk mitigation, said Dr. Sam Johnson, chief medical officer. The hospital ranked first in Georgia in overall hospital care in a 2014 study
by CareChex, a rating service of COMPARION “It’s a high-risk, complex industry, and it depends very much on human interaction,” he said. The big focus over the past six years has been designing good processes, so that almost everything that occurs to a patient is a process backed by the best practices available, Johnson said. “We’ve developed a good quality management system so we’re holding ourselves accountable to follow the processes and making continual improvement,” he said. Hospital staff conduct regular daily meetings on every unit to review data and any concerns, potential risks or problems. If any problems have developed, Johnson said, those issues are analyzed and the factors that led to them are tracked. Another element of the
process involves developing a culture of safety, instilling a mindset that everyone takes their responsibility to safety seriously, he said. This includes personal accountability, subordinate accountability and peer-to-peer accountability, he said. “This way, you’re not only looking out for yourself, but you’re looking out for everyone around you as well,” Johnson said. Another important aspect of the process, he said, is ensuring that patients receive ongoing education about medications and treatments. In addition to written and verbal information, the hospital has a closed-circuit television system wired to each room that provide customized education programs relating to a patient’s particular condition. WellStar Kennestone Hospital in Marietta, ranked 6th in
Metro Atlanta by U.S. News, and its affiliates institute a series of protocols to govern safety procedures. Every team member completes the Safety First program annually, a practice that instills a safe culture, safety behaviors and communication practices, said Dr. Robert Lubitz, vice president of medical affairs for WellStar. Team members are encouraged to ask questions, request changes when appropriate, express concerns and escalate their views up the chain of command, he said. STAR is another practice used to encourage staff to stop, think, act and review, a process that “reminds team members and providers that briefly pausing before making a decision decreases the risk of an error,” Lubitz said. One of the keys to improved communication is the
hospital’s practice of changing shifts at the patient’s bedside, allowing the patient to be personally involved in the discussion of his or her treatment with the attending nurse. Staff also use read-back verification to reduce the risk of verbal miscommunication. WellStar also employs numerous safeguards related to medications. Patients are assigned a bar code on their armbands and on medications, creating a check step to help reduce medication errors, Lubitz said. In addition, Independent double checks are used for high-risk medications. This technique requires a second caregiver to independently check dosage, administration orders and to verify correct setup of administration equipment, he said. “Hand hygiene is the most important thing caregivers and families can do to
prevent infections,” Lubitz said. “Hand hygiene includes soap and water, foam or gel, and is required of all providers before and after a patient encounter. Patient’s families are also educated in proper hand hygiene.” Another problem that plagues hospitals is misidentifying patients and misplacing equipment, Lubitz said. WellStar uses a standardized two-patient identifier approach to ensure the right patient is receiving care. Also, the hospital uses standardized equipment counts to assure the team that all equipment is accounted for at the end of a procedure. Finally, every area at WellStar has a safety coach who reinforces safe practices and serves as a conduit of communication throughout the year on how to improve safe patient care, Lubitz said.
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WEIGHT LOSS SURGERY FAQ What is your Body Mass Index (BMI)?
BMI is calculated by using a formula that considers the ratio of height and weight. Adults over 20 should have a BMI between 18.5 at 25; anything over 30 is considered obese; anything over 40 is considered morbidly obese, placing you at a very high health risk. To calculate your BMI, visit www.atlantabariatriccenter. com.
Are you a candidate for bariatric surgery?
According to the National Institutes of Health, the basic standards for qualifying for weight loss surgery are: • For men at least 100 pounds overweight and women at least 80 pounds overweight, with a BMI of 40 or more. • The presence of health problems related to obesity, such as diabetes, high
blood pressure, sleep apnea or other conditions. • An ability to participate in treatment and long-term follow-up. • An understanding of the operation and the lifestyle changes you will need to make.
What are the options for bariatric surgery?
Gastric Bypass Roux-en-Y The surgeon divides the stomach in two parts; the large portion of the stomach is closed off with staples to create a smaller pouch. The smaller stomach, your new pouch, restricts the amount of food you can eat at one time. The small intestine is cut below the duodenum and reattached to the new stomach pouch, leaving a shortened path for food to travel through so less food is absorbed. Laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding
60 • Medical Answer Book™ 2014 - 2015
An adjustable gastric band is placed around the top part of the stomach dividing it into two parts: a small upper pouch and a lower stomach. The size of the band is adjusted using a port placed under your skin. Adjusting the band changes how much you can eat and how quickly food leaves the new pouch so patients feel full sooner and longer. Gastric sleeve procedure The sleeve limits food intake by reducing the size of the stomach. A stapling device is used to divide the stomach vertically, leaving behind a thin vertical sleeve of stomach. The excised portion of the stomach is removed. *Talk to your doctor about specific risks associated with each of these
procedures and which one might be right for you.
How do you prepare for bariatric surgery?
Like all major surgeries, the best preparation is to understand the risks and potential benefits, and to closely follow your doctor’s orders. To mentally prepare yourself: • Understand the surgical process and what to expect afterward. • Talk to people who have had weight loss surgery. • Write a letter to yourself and your surgeon explaining your reasons for having the surgery and outlining your plans to maintain your weight loss after surgery. • Start a journal about your experience. Record how you feel now, the obstacles you encounter, the things you hope to be
able to do after surgery. • Get support from friends and family. It helps to know you have people behind you.
What is life like after bariatric surgery?
The modifications made to the gastrointestinal tract will require permanent changes in eating habits that must be followed for the rest of one’s life to keep the weight from returning. According to statistics, about 80 percent of patients have long-term success following bariatric surgery. It is important to note that every surgeon does not perform the exact same weight loss surgery procedure and that the dietary guidelines will be different for each surgeon and each type of procedure. What is most important is that patients adhere strictly to their surgeon’s recommended guidelines.
ADHD: WHAT PARENTS SHOULD KNOW
A
ttention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is the name of a group of behaviors found in many children and adults. People who have ADHD have trouble paying attention in school, at home or at work. They may be much more active and/or impulsive than what is usual for their age. These behaviors contribute to significant problems in relationships, learning and behavior. For this reason, children who have ADHD are sometimes seen as being “difficult” or as having behavior problems. ADHD is common, affecting 4 to 12 percent of school-age children. It’s more common in boys than in girls. You may be more familiar with the term attention deficit disorder (ADD). This disorder was renamed in 1994 by the American Psychiatric Association (APA).
What are the symptoms of ADHD?
The child with ADHD who is inattentive will have six or more of the following symptoms: • Has difficulty following instructions • Has difficulty keeping attention on work or play activities at school and at home • Loses things needed for activities at school and at home • Appears not to listen • Doesn’t pay close attention to details • Seems disorganized • Has trouble with tasks that require planning ahead • Forgets things • Is easily distracted The child with ADHD who is hyperactive/impulsive will have at least six of the following symptoms:
• Fidgety • Runs or climbs inappropriately • Can’t play quietly • Blurts out answers • Interrupts people • Can’t stay in seat • Talks too much • Is always on the go • Has trouble waiting his or her turn
What can I do to help my child?
A team effort, with parents, teachers and doctors working together, is the best way to help your child. Children who have ADHD tend to need more structure and clearer expectations. Some children benefit from counseling or from structured therapy. Families may benefit from talking with a specialist in managing ADHD-related behavior and learning problems. Medicine also helps many children.
What medicines are used to treat ADHD?
Some of the medicines for ADHD are methylphenidate (some brand names: Ritalin, Concerta), dextroamphetamine (brand name: Dexedrine), pemoline (brand name: Cylert), atomoxetine (Strattera), and a combination drug called Adderall. These medicines improve attention and concentration, and decrease impulsive and overactive behaviors. Other medicines can also be used to treat ADHD.
What can I do at home to help my child?
Children who have ADHD may be difficult to parent. They may have trouble understanding directions. Children who are in a constant state of activity can be challenging for adults. You may need to
change your home life a bit to help your child. Here are some things you can do to help: Make a schedule. Set specific times for waking up, eating, playing, doing homework, doing chores, watching TV or playing video games and going to bed. Post the schedule where your child will always see it. Explain any changes to the routine in advance. Make simple house rules. It’s important to explain what will happen when the rules are obeyed and when they are broken. Write down the rules and the results of not following them. Make sure your directions are understood. Get your child’s attention and look directly into his or her eyes. Then tell your child in a clear, calm voice specifically what you want. Keep directions simple and short. Ask your child to repeat the directions back to you. Reward good behavior. Congratulate your child when he or she completes each step of a task. Make sure your child is supervised all the time. Because they are impulsive, children who have ADHD may need more adult supervision than other children their age. Watch your child around his or her friends. It’s sometimes hard for children who have ADHD to learn social skills. Reward good play behaviors. Set a homework routine. Pick a regular place for doing homework, away from distractions such as other people, TV and video games. Break homework time into small parts and have breaks. Focus on effort, not grades. Reward your child when he or she tries to finish school work, not just for good grades. You can give extra rewards
Things that don’t cause ADHD
• Bad parenting (though a disorganized home life and school environment can make symptoms worse) • Too much sugar • Too little sugar • Aspartame for earning better grades. Talk with your child’s teachers. Find out how your child is doing at school--in class, at playtime, at lunchtime. Ask for daily or weekly progress notes from the teacher.
Will my child outgrow ADHD?
We used to think children would “grow out” of ADHD. We now know that is not true for most children. Symptoms of ADHD often get better as children grow older and learn to adjust. Hyperactivity usually stops in the late teenage years. But about half of children who have ADHD continue to be easily distracted, have mood swings, hot tempers and are unable to complete tasks. Children who have loving, supportive parents who work together with school staff, mental health workers and their doctor have the best chance of becoming welladjusted adults.
Source: www.familydoctor.org.
What should I do if I think my child has ADHD?
Talk with your child’s doctor. A diagnosis of ADHD can be made only by getting information about your child’s behavior from several people who know your child. Your doctor will ask you questions and may want to get information from your child’s teachers or anyone else who is familiar with your child’s behavior. Your doctor may have forms or checklists that you
• Food additives or colorings • Food allergies or other allergies • Lack of vitamins • Fluorescent lights • Too much TV • Video games
and your child’s teacher can fill out. This will help you and your doctor compare your child’s behavior with other children’s behavior. Your doctor will do vision and hearing tests if these tests haven’t been done recently. Your doctor may recommend trying medicine to see if it helps control your child’s hyperactive behavior. A trial of medicine alone cannot be the basis for diagnosing ADHD. However, it can be an important part of evaluating your child if ADHD is suspected. It might be hard for your doctor to tell if your child has ADHD. Many children who have ADHD aren’t hyperactive in the doctor’s office. For this reason, your doctor may want your child to see someone who specializes in helping children who have behavior problems.
What causes ADHD?
Children who have ADHD do not make enough chemicals in key areas in the brain that are responsible for organizing thought. Without enough of these chemicals, the organizing centers of the brain don’t work well. This causes the symptoms in children who have ADHD. Research shows that ADHD is more common in children who have close relatives with the disorder. Recent research also links smoking and other substance abuse during pregnancy to ADHD.
Medical Answer Book™ 2014 - 2015 • 61
EMERGENCY & COMMUNITY
RESOURCE TABLE ORGANIZATION
PURPOSE
PHONE #
Website
United Way
To find help
211 or 404-6141000
211online.unitedwayatlanta. org/
North Fulton Community Charities
Help in Roswell, Alpharetta, Johns Creek, Milton
770-640-0399
www.nfcchelp.org
Community Assistance Center
Help in Sandy Springs/Dunwoody
770-552-4015
www.ourcac.org
DFACS
Food Stamps/TANF/ Medicaid
404-252-2180
dfcs.dhs.georgia.gov/fultoncounty-dfcs-office
FACAA/LIHEAP
Energy Assistance
404-320-0166
www.facaa.org
St. Vincent de Paul
Financial Assistance
770-458-9607
www.svdpatl.org
Housing & Homeless Housing Authority of Fulton Co.
Section 8 and Public Housing
404-730-5841
www.hafc.org
Did we miss your resource? Contact Susan at 770-442-3278 ex.100
PURPOSE
ORGANIZATION
PHONE #
Website
Credit Counseling/ Legal/ Police CredAbility
Consumer Credit Counseling
404-527-7630
www.credability.org
NID Housing Counseling Agency
Foreclosure Information/ assistance
404-612-0405
www.atlhca.com
HOPE
24 Hour HotlineForeclosure assistance
888-995-4673
Atlanta Legal Aid
Legal Assistance
404-524-5811
www.atlantalegalaid.org
Anonymous Police Tip Hot Line
Roswell – Crime/ Drugs
770-641-3959
www.roswellgov.com
City of Alpharetta
Alpharetta – Crime/ Drugs
678-297-6307
www.alpharetta.ga.us
City of Johns Creek
Johns Creek – Crime/Drugs
678-474-1610
www.johnscreekga.gov/ services/police.aspx
City of Milton
Milton Police Department General
678-242-2570
www.cityofmiltonga.us/index
Homestretch/Housing Initiative
Transitional Housing
770-642-9185
www.homestretch.org
Roswell Public Housing
Public Housing
770-993-6226
www.roswellhousing.org
Rape Hotline
24 Hour Hotline
770-887-1121
www.fultoncountyga.gov/ contact-us-solicitor
The Drake House
Emergency housing women with children
770-587-4712
www.thedrakehouse.org
Grady Rape Crisis Center
Crisis line
404-616-4861
www.gnesa.org/content/ grady-rape-crisis-center
Metro Fair Housing
Housing Discrimination
404-524-0000
www.metrofairhousing.com
Salvation Army
General Assistance
404-352-3597
www.salvationarmy.org
Birth/Death Records
404-613-1260
www.fultoncountyga.gov/ dhw-vital-records
Gateway Center
Emergency Shelter
404-215-6600
www.gatewayctr.org
Travelers Aid/Hope Atlanta
Homeless prevention, newcomers
404-817-7070
North Fulton Career Center
Employment
404-612-2273
EEOC (Equal Employment Opportunity Com)
Employment Discrimination
800-669-4000
Department of Labor
Unemployment Office
866-873-5676
Government Fulton County Records IRS
Tax Issues
800-829-1040
www.irs.gov
Social Security
Social Security, Disability, SSI
800-772-1213
www.ssa.gov
Tags/Titles
Fulton County Office
404-730-6100
motor.etax.dor.ga.gov
Veterans Administration
VA Health, Housing, Benefits
800-827-1000
www.va.gov
Fulton County Housing & Human Services
Info on County programs
404-613-7944
www.fultoncountyga.gov/ divisions-and-programs
MARTA
bus, rail schedules, fares
404-848-4711
www.itsmarta.com
Georgia Crisis & Access Line
24 hour -mental health, addiction & crisis service
800-715-4225
bhlweb.com/tabform/
www.fultoncountyga.gov
www.hopeatlanta.org/
Employment www.fultoncountyga.gov/ wia-home www.eeoc.gov/field/atlanta www.dol.state.ga.us
Family & Childrens Services
Health
A Beacon of Hope
Pregnancy Counseling
678-893-5290
www.abeaconofhope.com
Child Abuse and Neglect
To report abuse
404-699-4399
dfcs.dhs.georgia.gov/howreport-child-abuse
North Fulton Regional Health Center
Public Health (in Alpharetta)
404-332-1958
GA Council on Child Abuse
Info, resources
800-532-3208
www.preventchildabusega. org
North Fulton Service Center
Common Ground (co-located services)
404-612-3917 or 404-612-6372
Child Support Assistance
Child Support Enforcement
877-423-4746
dcss.dhs.georgia.gov/
www.gradyhealthsystem.org/
Counseling
404-853-2844
www.familiesfirst.org
Primary Care clinic in NF (Sandy Springs)
404-616-1550
Families First
North Fulton Health Center Grady
Fulton County Schools
General Information
404-678-3600
www.fultonschools.org
Northside Behavioral Health
Mental Health
404-851-8960
www.northside.com/ medical_services
Fulton Co. School Social Workers
Information
404-763-6774
www.fultonschools.org
Children’s at NorthPoint (Mansell Rd)
pediatric primary care
770-643-1792
www.choa.org/AboutChildrens/Locations-andDirections
G.E.D.
Enrollment Opportunities at NFCC
678-387-4458
www.nfcchelp.org/ education
Good Samaritan Atlanta
primary care clinic downtown
404-523-6571
www.goodsamatlanta.org/
Georgia Highlands
primary care clinic serving North GA
678-887-1668
www. georgiahighlandsmedical.org
North Fulton Hospital
Hospital - Roswell
770-751-2500
www.nfultonhospital.com
Grady Memorial Hospital
Hospital
404-616-1000
www.gradyhealth.org/
Scottish Rite (Childrens Hospital)
Pediatric Hospital
404-785-5252
www.choa.org/
Emory Johns Creek
Hospital - Johns Creek
678-474-7000
www.emoryjohnscreek.com/
Northside Hospital
Hospital - Sandy Springs or Forsyth
404-851-8000
www.northside.com/
www.yourtoolsforliving.org
St. Joseph Hospital of Atlanta
Hospital - Sandy Springs
404-581-7001
www.stjosephsatlanta.org
www.ssnorthfulton.org
Gwinnett Medical Center - Duluth
Hospital
678-312-6800
www.gwinnettmedical center.org
Head Start
3-4 Year Olds
678-585-9100
www.georgiaheadstart.org
Child Dev. Center North Fulton
Child Care
770-992-4006
www.cdakids.org
Family Haven (NF & Forsyth)
24 Hour HotlineDomestic Violence
770-887-1121
www. forsythcountyfamilyhaven. info
PADV (Partnership Against Domestic Violence)
24 Hour HotlineDomestic Violence
404-873-1766
padv.org/
Jewish Family and Career Services
Family and Career Counseling
770-677-9300
Senior Services North Fulton
Meals on Wheels, Transportation
770-993-1906
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