Healthcare news April 2017
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April, 2017
Healthcare News - Fairfield County
Healthcare News - Fairfield County April, 2017
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Where do doctors go to treat their own pain? Dr. Robert Sidlow MD, MBA—Internist, New York, NY “As a board-certified internist who has been in practice for over 13 years, I spend much of my time attempting to alleviate the pain and suffering of my patients. As a clinician, one of the biggest challenges I face is helping my patients deal with musculoskeletal and neuropathic pain syndromes-those alltoo-common, yet frequently debilitating ailments caused by bad backs, pinched nerves, arthritis, and the like. Unfortunately, much of what I have to offer my patients boils down to the following: take a pain pill, stretch if you can, wait, and hope for the best. After a failed trial of "conservative" therapy a call might go out to the orthopedic surgeon for assistance; a truly satisfactory result is not common. The simple fact is that physicians are not well trained to deal with musculoskeletal pain, and patients can suffer as a result. Thankfully, my views on this topic have been turned completely upside down since I have personally discovered Dr. Jonathan Donath's outstanding practice. After beginning a vigorous exercise regime, I started to experience awful neck and upper back pain, accompanied by numbness and tingling down my left arm and fingers. For weeks I tried to nurse the pain with non steroidal anti-inflammatory medication, but the pain persisted and got to the point that I was almost unable to work, sleep, or most importantly, play guitar. I was literally in tears from the excruciating pain. A neurosurgeon diagnosed a herniated disc and pinched nerve in my neck and offered to decompress it with an operation. In desperation I called Dr. Donath instead. My visit to Dr. Donath's office was an outstanding experience. He spent about an hour with me and combined multiple modalities to fix the herniated disc in my neck: deep massage, active release techniques, traditional manipulation, cold therapy, and finally spinal decompression. After that first hour with Dr. Donath my pain had decreased from a 10/10 down to a manageable 4/10, and I was able to comfortably move my head and neck. That very night I was able to play guitar again. Two days later I went back for another series of treatments and the pain decreased even further. After about five days the pain was absolutely gone. Unbelievable! Since then he has used the same wonderful techniques to help me overcome painful bouts of sciatica as well. My own patients and family members have become "believers" in Dr. Donath's abilities as well--- the results he achieves are real and lasting. He is my go to guy for the majority of musculoskeletal and neuropathic pain syndromes that I now realize are truly treatable.”
THE NECK & BACK PAIN SOLUTION Dr. Donath’s new book is available at Amazon.com or a free E-book can be downloaded from his website.
Dr. Gregory Galano MD, Orthopedic Surgeon White Plains and New York, NY
As a board-certified sports medicine orthopedist, I see many patients with activity-related joint, back, and neck pain. Often I am confronted with patients that have exhausted other conservative forms of treatment, but fail to have lasting relief. Many of these patients would like to avoid surgery or may not even be good candidates for surgical procedures. Dr. Donath has proved extremely helpful to this patient population. He spends a great deal of time listening and examining the patient in order to formulate an individualized treatment plan. He offers innovative treatment options which include chiropractic, active release therapy, Graston technique, non-operative spinal decompression, and even exercise and nutrition programs. Having shared many patients with Dr. Donath, I have seen firsthand the positive interventions he has made in their daily lives and activities. They express the utmost respect and confidence in his clinical evaluation and knowledge, as well as his treatment techniques. I have no reservations recommending him highly to any patient I think may benefit from his services. Dr. Annebeth Litt, MD Internist, White Plains, NY
“Dr. Donath is amazing. As an internist, I have to decide between traditional western medicine and chiropractic care for my patients with back pain and other joint-related complaints. Dr. Donath's thorough and comprehensive approach to care allows my patients to get relief faster and less invasively. The result is invariably positive. One of my patients said he got his life and golf game back after seeing Dr. Donath. Another said that he was able to get rid of a pain she had for over 5 years in just a few sessions. I can confirm his success first-hand: Dr. Donath relieved my chronic pain with multiple techniques: manipulation, spinal decompression, vitamins and supplements, exercise and stretching. His hands-on approach and love of his work is reflected by the excellent results he gets. I continue to send my friends, family and patients to Dr. Donath because I know he gets results.” Dr. Pankaj Jain—Pediatric Cardiologist New York, NY “I really don't have words to express my feelings about the care I got in the last 3 months. I was almost handicapped, living with terrible pain all the time, crippling my day to day life. I am a medical doctor and work in a hospital with all sorts of amazing physicians, but after seeing a physical therapist, getting epidural steroids injections, many orthopedists and neurosurgeons, finally my destination lead me to see Dr Jonathan Donath. With great skepticism, I lied down for spinal decompression therapy. It was unbelievable that after only two initial sessions, my radiating pain down my leg had almost disappeared. Gradually, I started getting better, started doing exercises that they gave me midway through the treatment. Now, I am doing all my daily activities without any pain. I highly recommend Dr Jonathan for any problems related to the musculoskeletal system, you will definitely feel at home and will get better.”
Dr. Eugene Dinkevich MD—Division of General Pediatrics SUNY Downstate Medical Center Brooklyn, NY “I am a pediatrician and in my work, I have to bend down a lot and I'm constantly lifting kids. I usually have one to three bad flare ups of low back pain every year. When my back would "go out", I could barely walk to the bathroom and would have to lie down in bed for a few days. I have tried everything: doing nothing and "toughing it out", muscle relaxants, physical therapy, chiropractic, therapeutic massage, and even painful steroid injections. Nothing worked. When I moved to Westchester, I met Dr. Jonathan Donath. In just a couple of sessions with Dr. Donath, the pain completely disappeared. If it hadn't happened to me, I wouldn't have believed it. During my last flare up, I was expecting to be on my back for 2-3 days and in pain for 2 weeks. Instead, after one session with Dr. Donath, I was able to walk; two more sessions and I was fine. I could walk, bend down and I had almost no pain. Since that last back episode, Dr. Donath has helped me with my tendonitis in my right hand and with my chronic knee problems. I recommend Dr. Donath to everyone with back, muscle or joint pain. Even if you have not had relief with other treatments and other chiropractors, give Dr. Donath a chance. I did and he changed my life.” Dr. Harold Weissman, MD Ophthalmic Surgeon Lenox Hill Hospital New York, NY “My wife actually went to Dr. Donath before I did. She was experiencing terrible neck pain and literally could not move her neck in any direction without excruciating pain. It was so bad that initially she was unable to drive herself to Dr. Donath’s office. After only two spinal decompression treatments by Dr. Donath, she was able to resume driving. Following a few weeks of treatment, she was pain free and her range of motion was back to normal. A few years later, I started having arm and elbow pain. I tweaked something in my arm while working out and anti-inflammatory medication and pain killers did not help. The problem affected my ability to function as an eye surgeon. I saw Dr. Donath who diagnosed my condition as lateral epicondylitis (more commonly known as tennis elbow). He treated me utilizing Active Release Techniques and I improved almost immediately. He also gave me numerous exercises to do at home. After three visits to his office, my pain was completely gone. I highly recommend Dr. Donath to my family, friends, and patients who experience any sort of musculoskeletal pain.
Over 50 Medical Doctors choose
Dr Donath to treat their own pain. Read all their testimonials at
www.westchesterpainrelief.com
Dr. Jonathan Donath DC, MS, Clinic Director Joint Effort Chiropractic / Westchester Spinal Decompression Center 222 Westchester Ave. Suite 405, White Plains, NY 10604 Tel 914-259-8104 www.jointeffortchiro.com www.westchesterpainrelief.com
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April, 2017
Healthcare News - Fairfield County
Benefits of
Occupational Therapy for Autism
A person who has autism spectrum disorder (ASD) often has trouble communicating and interacting with other people; his or her interests, activities, and play skills may be limited. Occupational therapy may help people with autism develop these skills at home and in school. Occupational therapists study human growth and development and a person’s interaction with the environment through daily activities. They are experts in the social, emotional, and physiological effects of illness and injury. This knowledge helps them promote skills for independent living in people with autism and other developmental disorders. Occupational therapists work as part of a team that includes parents, teachers, and other professionals. They help set specific goals for the person with autism. These goals often involve social interaction, behavior, and classroom performance. Occupational therapists can help in two main ways: evaluation and therapy.
How is occupational therapy useful for evaluation of ASD? The therapist observes children to see if they can do tasks they are expected to do at their ages -- getting dressed or playing a game, for example. Sometimes, the therapist will have the child videotaped during the day in order to see how the child interacts with his or her environment so that he or she can better assess the kind of care the child needs. The therapist might note any of the following: • Attention span and stamina • Transition to new activities • Play skills
• Need for personal space • Responses to touch or other types of stimuli • Motor skills such as posture, balance, or manipulation of small objects • Aggression or other types of behaviors • Interactions between the child and caregivers
How does occupational therapy help a person with autism spectrum disorder? Once an occupational therapist has gathered information, he or she can develop a program for your child. There is no single ideal treatment program. But early, structured, individualized care has been shown to work best.
Occupational therapy may combine a variety of strategies. These can help your child respond better to his or her environment. These OT strategies include: • Physical activities, such as stringing beads or doing puzzles, to help a child develop coordination and body awareness • Play activities to help with interaction and communication • Developmental activities, such as brushing teeth and combing hair • Adaptive strategies, including coping with transitions
What are the benefits of occupational therapy for ASD? The overall goal of occupational therapy is to help the person with autism improve his or her quality of life at home and in school. The therapist helps introduce, maintain, and improve skills so that people with autism can be as independent as possible. These are some of the skills occupational therapy may foster:
• Daily living skills, such as toilet training, dressing, brushing teeth, other grooming skills • Fine motor skills required for holding objects while handwriting or cutting with scissors • Gross motor skills used for walking, climbing stairs, or riding a bike • Sitting, posture, or perceptual skills, such as telling the differences between colors, shapes, and sizes • Awareness of his or her body and its relation to others • Visual skills for reading and writing • Play, coping, self-help, problem solving, communication, and social skills
By working on these skills during occupational therapy, a child with autism may be able to:
• • • • • •
Develop peer and adult relationships Learn how to focus on tasks Learn how to delay gratification Express feelings in more appropriate ways Engage in play with peers Learn how to self-regulate
How can someone obtain OT services for autism spectrum disorder? You can obtain occupational therapy services either privately, through a statewide early childhood intervention program, or at school. Public law requires schools to provide certain types of occupational therapy to those who need it. Private insurance also usually covers OT. In addition, Medicaid may cover occupational therapy for autism, even for families with higher incomes.
Source:www.webmd.com
Healthcare News - Fairfield County April, 2017
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Certified instructors, Masters swim clubs offer swim lessons in April
U.S. Masters Swimming’s Adult-Learn-to-Swim Campaign strives to reduce drowning risk, Make communities safer Elly Wray Photography/U.S. Masters Swimming
About 10 people drown every day in the United States, most of them adults or young adults, according to the CDC. U.S. Masters Swimming, with its adult learn-to-swim initiative, is on the front lines to reduce this statistic. USMS is continuing its annual April is Adult Learn-to-Swim Month campaign to directly reduce adult drowning by training and certifying adult learnto-swim instructors and by providing grants to adult-swim-lesson providers through its charitable arm, the Swimming Saves Lives Foundation. Since 2011, the foundation has awarded nearly $335,000 in grants to programs offering adult swim lessons across the country, including $88,000 in 2017 to 38 programs. Many of the grant programs are run through U.S. Masters Swimming’s swim clubs, and club-member volunteers assist USMS-certified adult learnto-swim instructors in offering the lessons, especially during the month of April, before many pools, beaches, and lakes get busy during warm-weather months. “The Adult Learn-to-Swim Month campaign gives our members and clubs a chance to give back by teaching more adults to become safer around water,” says Bill Brenner, USMS’s chief operating officer. “We know that when adults learn to swim, it makes a lasting impact, since adults who swim tend to also enroll their children in swim lessons.”
Brenner says educating instructors is critical to the success of adult swim lessons. “Traditional swim-instructor training is focused on teaching children. Adults learn differently than children do, and our curriculum teaches instructors how to communicate lifesaving swimming skills to adults.” The USMS Adult Learn-to-Swim Instructor Certification Program, launched in 2015, will visit 24 cities this year. To date, more than 800 instructors have been certified, with 400 more anticipated by the end of 2017. U.S. Masters Swimming encourages all its nationwide programs and members to participate in April is Adult Learn-to-Swim Month by hosting ALTS classes in their communities and by donating to the Swimming Saves Lives Foundation, which is funded by voluntary contributions from the more than 65,000 USMS members and others. Anyone interested in finding or offering adult learn-to-swim lessons is encouraged to visit usms.org/learntoswim.
About the Swimming Saves Lives Foundation The Swimming Saves Lives Foundation is the charitable arm of U.S. Masters Swimming. USMS has been promoting the health and fitness benefits of swimming for more than 40 years. The foundation provides grants for adult learn-to-swim classes. For more information, visit usms.org/giving.
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April, 2017
OUR VIEW
ADVERTISER INDEX Company
Page
All About You Medical Spa
7
American Heart Association
2
ColumbiaDoctors
20
Doctors Express
9
Fairfield County Medical Association
12, 19
Plancher Orthopaedics
15
UB Clinics, University of Bridgeport
11
Westchester Spinal Decomp Ctr
Healthcare news
Healthcare News - Fairfield County
3, 18
845-534-7500 • (fax) 845-534-0055 Info@HealthcareNewspaper.com
PUBLISHER
Joseph P. Belsito Joe@belsito.com
••• GENERAL MANAGER
In April, Healthcare News salutes Occupational Therapy month – and the tireless teams of occupational therapists and occupational therapy assistants who serve in this vital area of healthcare. They help countless patients live fuller lives while dealing with an injury, illness or disability. And their therapeutic work spans the gamut from assisting children with physical disabilities, to helping injured adults literally get back on their feet again so they can return to work, to aiding seniors coping with cognitive issues. National Public Health Week (April 3 to 9) is also an April highlight. Its goal is to note public health contributions and champion the importance of a strong public health system. Many groups and individuals take part in special programs at this time, with the aim of helping to build healthier communities. This issue also explores ways that rehabilitation centers and their expert, compassionate staffs assist individuals in recovering from illness and disabilities. Last but not least, April 24-28 is Every Kid Healthy Week. It’s an annual event that spotlights the efforts educators are making to create healthier school environments, and emphasizes the link between good childhood nutrition, physical activity and effective learning. We’d love to hear from you with comments, questions, and ideas about what you’d like to see in future issues of Healthcare News. Contact us at Info@healthcarenewspaper.com. Visit Fairfield County Healthcare News on Facebook to get even more updates on local health and wellness
INSIDE
Nancy Sorbella
Nancy@healthcarenewsmagazine.com
••• MARKETING DIRECTOR
Gregory W. Buff Greg@belsito.com
••• MARKETING EXECUTIVE
Anthony Mairo
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••• MANAGING EDITOR
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Maureen Rafferty Linell MRLinell@charter.net
••• SALES & MARKETING SPECIALIST
Rob Stankiewicz
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••• CIRCULATION
Michelle Belsito
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••• SENIOR CORRESPONDENTS
Dale McKnight
CORPORATE INFORMATION
Healthcare News - Fairfield County, CT edition Vol. 4 No. 4 - is published monthly, 12 times a year by Belsito Communications, Inc., 1 Ardmore Street, New Windsor, NY 12553. Postage Paid at New Windsor, NY and additional mailing offices. Postmaster: Send address changes to Healthcare Newspaper, 1 Ardmore Street, New Windsor, NY, 12553. No financial responsibility is assumed by this newspaper to publish a display, classified, or legal ad or for typographical errors except of reprinting that part of the ad which was omitted or in error. Omissions or errors must be brought to the attention of the newspaper during the same month of publication.
845-534-7500 • (fax) 845-534-0055 Info@Belsito.com
Next Month in Healthcare News Women’s Health National Women’s Health Week begins on Mother’s Day Spa Directory Urgent Care Facilities National Physical Education & Sports Week
Motivation for fitness and physical activity
American Stroke Awareness Month Stroke is the fourth leading cause of death in the U.S.
American Heart Association Together we are all stronger Page 2
All About You Medical Spa Aesthetic and anti-aging services Page 7
UB Clinics
Cost effective healthcare Page 11
Fairfield County Medical Association Peer-to-peer opportunities Pages 12, 19
ColumbiaDoctors Medical Group
Changing medical history Page 20
Healthcare News - Fairfield County April, 2017
THE FUTURE HAS
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GREAT HAIR!!
No Pain/ No Surgery/ No Drugs/ No Side Effects…no kidding!
Lasers can now GROW HAIR Dr. Christine Gould is a graduate of Cornell University Medical College and Yale University. She has extensive experience in both emergency medicine and medical aesthetics. She opened her own practice in 2013 and has been diligently bringing the most effective technologies to her lucky patients at All About You Medical Spa located at 79 S Benson Rd, Fairfield CT 06824.
Call now for a consultation.
(203) 292-5559 www.hairgrowct.com
I had trouble believing this myself, but what if I told you that there exists a recently FDA approved laser that can grow your hair back? It feels like an episode from a SciFi movie, only better because it is true, and the FDA agrees. Pioneers in laser medicine have discovered that Low Level Laser Light Therapy (known as LLLT) can resuscitate dying hair follicles and stimulate hair to grow again. How does it work? The laser heals the follicle by improving blood circulation, nutrient flow, and rate of removal of harmful DHT (from testosterone) among other positive benefits. On a cellular level, this means improved metabolism and protein synthesis, increased ATP (energy) production to repair the weakened follicle and cellular stimulation. All this means prevention of hair loss, improved hair quality and hair growth. But don’t take just my word for it, take the FDA’s. The FDA looked at data from thousands of patients who received a full treatment cycle, and they found it to be SAFE and EFFECTIVE. There is no pain, no surgery, no drugs, no side effects. And it works. This all translates into a modern day medical miracle. Very few people are not candidates for benefit from this device, whether you are young or old, male of female. (If all your hair is dormant, and your scalp is shiny bald with no inkling of remaining hair, you would have been excluded from the study). Of course, it takes a commitment to your hair. Each cycle is 20”, and you need to complete a 48 treatment cycle… so far, hair doesn’t grow from trees…but it can grow from a laser!
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April, 2017
Healthcare News - Fairfield County
March for Babies Walk at Fairfield’s Jennings Beach, May 7 Gather your friends and family to help fight premature birth at March for Babies on Sunday, May 7, 2017.
You’ll join other fundraisers walking three miles at Jennings Beach. The fun-filled and rewarding day includes family-fun activities, music and refreshments. Coordinators aim to raise $125,000 and, with your support, that's achievable. The March of Dimes mission is to improve the health of babies -- working to prevent birth defects, premature birth and infant mortality through research, education, vaccines and breakthroughs.
K AYA SURVIVED!
Sign up for March for Babies at www.marchforbabies.org/event/Fairfield.
© 2015 Marcch of Dimes Foundation
Born 4 months early and s p e nt m o r e t h a n 5 m o nt h s in the hospital.
Donate e or join me m at: marchforbabies chfforbabiess.org/ s org/
For more information or help with event registration, please contact:
KUzcategui@marchofdimes.org or call 914-610-7523.
Fifth Annual Every Kid Healthy™ Week: April 24-28, 2017
Every Kid Healthy™ Week is an annual observance created to celebrate school health and wellness achievements and recognized on the calendar of National Health Observances. Observed the last week of April each year, this special week shines a spotlight on the great efforts our school partners are making to improve the health and wellness of their students and the link between nutrition, physical activity and learning – because healthy kids are better prepared to learn! Anyone can get involved and be a part of the celebration to help support sound nutrition, regular physical activity and health-promoting programs in schools. If you’re looking for ideas, check these out: • Host healthy foods taste test with fruits, vegetables, whole grains and low-fat dairy products • Invite a local fitness trainer to lead a family Zumba, yoga or other fitness class • Plant a school garden or refresh an existing one • Invite parents and students to participate in a school walk-a-thon
Source:everykidhealthyweek.org/
Healthcare News - Fairfield County April, 2017
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April, 2017
Healthcare News - Fairfield County
HEALTH & WELLNESS EXPO 2017
The Fairfield Chamber of Commerce was delighted to present this important Health and Wellness Expo to the community, in conjunction with the Norma Pfriem Breast Center, at their beautiful new facility, at the Yale New Haven Health Park Avenue Medical Center on March 12th. Beverly A. Balaz, President of the Fairfield Chamber of Commerce, stated: “The medical world changes almost daily, with advancements in treatments and patient care. As such, education and knowledge is paramount … and that was our goal for the Expo. This free event, was open to the public and was held at the beautiful, brand-new, state-of-the-art, Yale New Haven Health Park Avenue Medical Center,
Trumbull, CT, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Attendees also had the opportunity to tour inside the building, viewing the extensive art collection, as well as walking outside the building, to take a walk through their attractively designed, Healing and Meditation Garden. Their stunning building was the perfect venue to hold such an important educational exposition. Food trucks were on site throughout the day, to serve attendees beverages and food items of their choice. Collins Medical Equipment, who just celebrated their 85th Anniversary last year, took the lead role not only as the event sponsor, but helped to carefully organize and create an event which was informative and educational at the same time, bringing curious and interested people to the event.
“This Expo event was an important way to help people learn about the growing number of healthrelated products and services available for the whole family, in Fairfield and surrounding areas,” said Fairfield Chamber of Commerce President, Beverly A. Balaz. Working with our event sponsor, Collins Medical Equipment, also brought the planning committee together perfectly. And partnering with Norma Pfriem Breast Center, made the logistics and organizational process so easy and helpful. It was such a successful event, and we look forward to next year, as we begin to already plan the 2018 Health & Wellness Expo”, says Beverly A. Balaz.
Photos by Anthony Mairo
UB and Optimus Health Care sign agreement for UB doctors to treat patients Healthcare News - Fairfield County April, 2017
Partnership expands drug-free treatment options for individuals suffering from chronic and acute pain
The UB-Optimus program began March 13 and will be run under the direction of and Dr. MichelsAshwood and Dr. James Lehman, program director for the post-graduate resident training program at UB College of Chiropractic. Funding for the program, including salaries for faculty and post-doctoral residents, is available through the Affordable Care Act. “While patients clearly benefit from expanded treatment options, the partnership with Optimus also enhances clinical training experiences at the UB Health Sciences programs, starting with the College of Chiropractic,” said Dr. Lehman. “This is just the beginning, and we are negotiating with partners to provide similar programs in New Jersey and elsewhere,” he added. Media contact: Leslie Geary, (203) 576-4625, lgeary@bridgeport.edu
By Leslie Geary
provided
As policymakers and health professionals scramble to address the nation’s opioid epidemic, the University of Bridgeport’s Division of Health Sciences (UBHS) is providing solutions by delivering addiction-free treatments to individuals at federally funded community health centers throughout Connecticut. In its latest venture signed earlier this year, UBHS will expand community outreach efforts by teaming up with Optimus Health Care of Bridgeport to provide chiropractic and acupuncture to patients at Optimus clinics in Stamford and Bridgeport. Under the five-year agreement, doctors from the UB’s College of Chiropractic teaching faculty, postdoctoral chiropractic residents, and supervised UB chiropractic students will serve patients, including those on expanded Medicaid, who suffer from chronic and acute pain caused by neuro-musculoskeletal conditions. The partnership with Optimus is modeled after a pilot program that UB launched in 2012 with a similar federally qualified health center and included expanded Medicaid benefits to cover chiropractic care.
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A study of the pilot program commissioned by the Weitzman Institute found that patient satisfaction after receiving chiropractic care provided by UB was 98.5 percent. Moreover, patients reported “significant improvement” in their ability to engage in daily activities without the use of prescription pain medication. “It’s been so successful that we’re replicating the program with Optimus,” said UB Vice President of Health Sciences Dr. David M. Brady. “The federal government is trying to come up with a way to treat pain to curb opioid addiction because it’s clearly evident that pain medicine can’t be the only answer to chronic and acute pain,” Dr. Brady added. “It’s unfortunate that people who are covered under Medicaid—low-income and urban populations—didn’t have the ability to access this kind of care. Now they do.” Optimus Chief Medical Officer Dr. Karin Michels-Ashwood said, “We believe the population we serve should have alternative ways to manage pain. Our partnership with UB allows Optimus to support resident training in our community while expanding pain-free treatment options for our patients.”
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April, 2017
Healthcare News - Fairfield County
Learn about Child Safety at Griffin Hospital April 10
Griffin Hospital, 130 Division St., Derby, and Safe Kids Greater Naugatuck Valley invite the community to come to the hospital Mon., April 10 from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. for National Safe Kids Day. “Safe Kids Day is a day to celebrate kids and take action to keep kids safe,” said Cathi Kellett, Safe Kids Greater Naugatuck Valley Coalition Coordinator. Many people are surprised to learn that injuries from car crashes, fires, drownings, poisonings, and falls are the top health threats to children in the United States, Kellett said. Throughout the world, an estimated 1 million children die of injuries each year, and nearly all of these tragedies are preventable. Visitors to the Safe Kids Day table will learn about the many free Safe Kids programs offered in their community to help keep children safe. For more information, contact Kellett at 203 732-1337 or ckellett@griffinhealth.org.
Healthcare News - Fairfield County April, 2017
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What is Autism?
Autism, or autism spectrum disorder, refers to a broad range of conditions characterized by challenges with social skills, repetitive behaviors, speech and nonverbal communication, as well as by unique strengths and differences. We now know that there is not one autism but many types, most caused by a combination of genetic and environmental influences. The term “spectrum” reflects the wide variation in challenges and strengths possessed by each person with autism. Autism’s most-obvious signs tend to appear between 2 and 3 years of age. In some cases, it can be diagnosed as early as 18 months. Some developmental delays associated with autism can be identified and addressed even earlier. Autism Speaks urges parents with concerns to seek evaluation without delay, as early intervention can improve outcomes. Some facts about autism
• The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates autism’s prevalence as 1 in 68 children in the United States. This includes 1 in 42 boys and 1 in 189 girls. • An estimated 50,000 teens with autism become adults – and lose schoolbased autism services – each year. • Around one third of people with autism remain nonverbal.
• Around one third of people with autism have an intellectual disability.
• Certain medical and mental health issues frequently accompany autism. They include gastrointestinal (GI) disorders, seizures, sleep disturbances, attention deficit and hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), anxiety and phobias.
Note: In 2013, the American Psychiatric Association merged four previously distinct diagnoses into one umbrella diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder (ASD). These included autistic disorder, childhood disintegrative disorder, pervasive developmental disorder-not otherwise specified (PDD-NOS) and Asperger syndrome.
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Protect your knees while running on the treadmill April, 2017
Healthcare News - Fairfield County
icine Sports Med & s ic d e a p cline r Ortho - A small in ith Planche s w e r ri e ju h c in n e la er kne Dr. Kevin P lead to few n a c t a All year round the treadmill represents freedom th s offers tip for many runners, especially in the winter months
Higher inclines can lead to runner's knee Treadmills come pre-programmed with incline settings for a good reason. When we run at an incline, it significantly tests our leg muscles, working muscle groups such as the gluteus maximus, quads and calves muscles and burning more calories. “Running at a small incline can even help avoid the development of shin splints and promote endurance more than running on a level surface,” notes Dr. Plancher, also a Clinical Professor in Orthopaedics at Albert Einstein College of Medicine in New York. Running at sharp inclines, like up hills, can result in the painful condition known as "runner's knee," or known medically as patellofemoral stress syndrome. At these high-incline settings, ankle joints move less, making the knees compensate to carry the body up the hill.
when people don't want to stop training to brave the cold weather, snow or ice. Treadmill running poses special challenges to the knees - and setting the treadmill to a small incline can help protect these vulnerable joints, says orthopaedic surgeon Kevin D. Plancher, MD, founder of Plancher Orthopaedics & Sports Medicine. While many treadmills offer inclines ranging from 0.5% to 12%, not all offer every incline levels in between. But for the thousands of athletes who hop on a treadmill seeking a solid and safe - workout, Dr. Plancher offers crucial clarity regarding how to best avoid knee injury by focusing on incline level of 3%. Running on a treadmill with 0% incline isn't the same as running on flat ground, he says. “A zero-percent incline is actually the equivalent of running at a slight downhill outdoors,” he adds. “It causes additional wear and tear to the knee and patellar tendon, which helps muscles at the front of the thigh straighten the leg.” Higher inclines, which often requires an increased effort for runners, can be hard on the knees, sometimes leading to sharp knee pain, he says. “Many of us crank up the incline on the treadmill because it's challenging and fun, but we are not considering how treadmill inclines affect the knee joint,” Dr. Plancher explains.
Lower inclines safer for the knees Running at a slight incline of 3% is optimal to avoid the unnatural movement patterns caused by running on a level treadmill setting. “Even a 1% incline levels out the surface beneath you, relieves the pressure from your knees and places the workload on the glutes and hamstring muscles,” Dr. Plancher adds. “As with all things, moderation is key,” says Dr. Plancher, who lectures globally on issues related to orthopaedic procedures and sports injury management. “Common sense also applies: If something hurts, stop doing it. Other activities, such as biking, swimming and using an elliptical trainer, offer similar health benefits but can give your knee joints a break and are often a good alternative.” Dr. Plancher adds that if you are unsure about a treadmill and your knees hurt, contact an orthopaedic specialist who can give you a program that is personalized and beneficial to your needs.
Kevin D. Plancher, MD, is a board-certified orthopaedic surgeon and the founder of Plancher Orthopaedics & Sports Medicine. Plancher Orthopaedics & Sports Medicine is a general orthopaedics and sports medicine practice with offices in New York City and Greenwich, CT. www.plancherortho.com
Healthcare News - Fairfield County April, 2017
Kevin D. Plancher, M.D.
WELCOMES MARGARET HARVEY, D. O.
Dr. Harvey, former Special Ops Orthopedic Surgeon for the US Marines, is Board Certified and fellowship trained in Sports Medicine. Her areas of expertise include: • PRP Injections • Stem Cell Injections • Knee and Shoulder Arthroscopy • Hip Arthroscopy and Reconstruction • Advanced Cartilage Restoration and Transplantation • Complex Knee and Shoulder Reconstruction • Meniscal Transplantation Dr. Margaret Harvey is a resident of Wilton Connecticut. She is focused on returning patients to an active lifestyle.
Office Hours are Monday - Friday Most Insurance Plans Accepted (including Workman’s Comp.) Connecticut 31 River Road Suite 100, Cos Cob, CT 06807 203-863-2003
New York 1160 Park Avenue, New York, NY 10128 212-816-5200
WWW.plancherortho.com
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HEALTHIEST NATION April, 2017
Becoming the
Healthcare News - Fairfield County
Healthiest Nation NPHW Fact Sheet
Build a nation of safe, healthy communities Health must be a priority in designing our communities, from healthy housing to parks and playgrounds. Walking and biking must coexist with cars and public transportation. We need lower levels of violence and crime so everyone can safely live, work, learn and play. Support farmers markets and local businesses that value health, such as retailers that don't sell tobacco.
Help all Americans achieve at least high school graduation Education is the leading indicator of good health, giving people access to better jobs, incomes and neighborhoods. Call for policies that start with early school success and lead to higher on-time high school graduation rates. Be a champion for school-based health centers in your local schools. Become a mentor — you can make a difference!
Join us in celebrating National Public Health Week—April 3-9, 2017 and become a part of the movement for change. Changing our health means ensuring conditions that give everyone the opportunity to be healthy. We all have a role to play!
Increase economic mobility The science is clear: Poverty and poor health go hand-in-hand. It’s time to fix our country’s growing income inequality and the unhealthy stresses it puts on adults and children. Support policies that ensure a living wage and remove barriers that make it harder to advance to higher incomes.
Ensure social justice and health equity Everyone has the right to good health. We must remove barriers so everyone has the same opportunity to improve their lives and their health. Speak out against racism and an unequal criminal justice system. Demand a fair allocation of community resources. Fight against the trend of growing voter restrictions. Everyone needs a voice in improving our communities. Give everyone a choice of safe, healthy food Our food system should provide affordable food with nutritious ingredients, free from harmful contaminants. For many families, eating healthy is a daily challenge. Call for policies that help eliminate food deserts and bring healthy food to all neighborhoods and schools. Support measures like menu labeling that help people make healthier choices. Start a community garden. Volunteer for a local food bank!
Prepare for the health effects of climate change Our health is connected to our environments. What happens upstream in our environments affects our health downstream. Support policies that protect the air we breathe, both indoors and outdoors, and the clean water we drink. Policies that protect our health from natural and manmade weather events and disasters are just as important. Support efforts that help communities prepare for and adapt to the health impacts of climate change.
Encourage healthy behaviors and choices Avoid using tobacco, alcohol and other drugs. Eat healthy foods and exercise. We need to make these and other healthy choices for ourselves. But it doesn’t stop there – we need to work together to create communities that make the healthy choice the easy choice for everyone.
Provide quality health care for everyone Health reform was just a start. To fulfill its potential, we must continue to pursue options for expanded access to quality care at the federal, state and local levels. But we also need to shift the main focus of our health system from one that treats illness to one that equally emphasizes prevention.
Strengthen public health infrastructure and capacity Strong and consistent funding levels are necessary for the public health system to respond to both everyday health threats and unexpected health emergencies. Support higher budgets for key public health agencies like the CDC and HRSA. These agencies strengthen the public health workforce and are a major source of funding for state and local health departments and programs. Source:www.nphw.org
Healthcare News - Fairfield County April, 2017
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Depression: What you should know The theme of the 2017 World Health Day campaign is depression.
Depression affects people of all ages, from all walks of life, in all countries. It causes mental anguish and impacts on people’s ability to carry out even the simplest everyday tasks, with sometimes devastating consequences for relationships with family and friends and the ability to earn a living. At worst, depression can lead to suicide, now the second leading cause of death among 15-29-year-olds. Yet, depression can be prevented and treated. A better understanding of what depression is, and how it can be prevented and treated, will help reduce the stigma associated with the condition, and lead to more people seeking help.
What is depression? ●
Depression is an illness characterized by persistent sadness and a loss of interest in activities that you normally enjoy, accompanied by an inability to carry out daily activities, for at least two weeks. ● In addition, people with depression normally have several of the following: a loss of energy; a change in appetite; sleeping more or less; anxiety; reduced concentration; indecisiveness; restlessness; feelings of worthlessness, guilt, or hopelessness; and thoughts of self-harm or suicide. ● Something that can happen to anybody. ● Not a sign of weakness. ● Treatable, with talking therapies or antidepressant medication or a combination of these. What you can do if you think you are depressed ● Talk to someone you trust about your feelings. Most people feel better after talking to someone who cares about them. ● Seek professional help. Your local health-care worker or doctor is a good place to start. ● Remember that with the right help, you can get better. ● Keep up with activities that you used to enjoy when you were well. ● Stay connected. Keep in contact with family and friends. ● Exercise regularly, even if it’s just a short walk. ● Stick to regular eating and sleeping habits. ● Accept that you might have depression and adjust your expectations. You may not be able to accomplish as much as you do usually. ● Avoid or restrict alcohol intake and refrain from using illicit drugs; they can worsen depression. ● If you feel suicidal, contact someone for help immediately. Remember: Depression can be treated. If you think you have depression, seek help.
Source:www.who.int/campaigns/world-health-day/2017
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“Back Pain Technology Cheats Mother Nature
April, 2017
Healthcare News - Fairfield County
After helping hundreds of Fairfield County herniated disc sufferers eliminate their pain, Local Doctor explains how…
Helps Herniated Discs Heal Naturally… In As Little As 25 Minutes!” At Last! Fairfield County Doctor Offers Technology That Doesn’t Just End SEVERE Pain From Herniated Discs, But Helps Your Body To Start Rebuilding Them… As Fast As Humanly Possible! Best Part: You can check it all out for FREE if you like!
There is no doubt… technology has made all of our lives better… and easier. Just about every miraculous medical cure and comfort of modern living can be attributed to amazing breakthroughs in technology. Heck, laser eye surgery can give people who are almost as blind as a bat perfect 20/20 vision. How amazing is that? That’s why it’s no surprise that technology might be able to solve your back and neck pain from herniated/bulging discs or sciatica… for good. Here is why: Back and neck pain can be devastating. And nothing is worse than going to doctor after doctor… trying treatment after treatment… spending money you can’t afford… and still suffering in pain. That’s why… I bet you would love to instantly end your pain… without any risk what-so-ever… and have it never come back for the rest of your life? Well, that might NOT be so easy. But, what if there was a wonderful advancement in technology that, with a handful of simple, non-invasive treatments, could possibly have you out of pain and on your way to healing naturally? Better yet, what if this technology could possibly heal your herniated/bulging discs (instead of cutting it out like surgery) so you have the best chance to live pain-free and do all the things you want and love to do? And what if this technology was: • FDA cleared! • Proven safe and effective! • Allows your herniated discs to heal naturally without the risky and dangerous side effects of surgery! • Relieves pain fast… in some cases in as little as 25 minutes! Well, guess what? There is such technology and there is a very good chance it can help you… like it has alof ready helps thousands herniated/bulging disc and sciatica sufferers all around the country… No Matter How Bad Your Pain Is, How Long You’ve Been Suffering Or How Many Other Treatments And Doctors Have Failed You! Don’t laugh. It’s really true. Here’s proof…
When you have a herniated disc, compressive forces cause your spinal bones to come together… basically squashing your disc. The space in between your bones decreases and the soft, jello-like disc material leaks out. This disc material that leaks out is called a herniated disc and can cause severe pain, numbness and tingling in your neck, back, arms or legs when the herniation pushes into and “pinches” a nerve. So it makes sense, if you could slightly pull the spinal bones apart… that would open up the space, take the pressure off the disc, the disc off the nerve and solve the problem. Right? But the only problem is… how do you do that? For years and years, doctors have been trying to do it with traction. But traction has been proven ineffective and often very painful. Why? Traction doesn’t work because when you have a herniated or bulging disc, the area is injured and when you try to move, your muscles go into spasm. Spasm is your body’s way of trying to protect you from causing further injury. That’s why traction hurts so much. As soon as the traction starts… your muscles overprotect the area and spasm. But the good news is: Now there is technology that out-smarts your body’s natural spasm reaction. In other words: It fools mother nature! This technology is called nonsurgical spinal decompression (NSSD) and here’s how it works… NSSD is very different from plain traction because it has advanced computer technology that actually senses your spinal muscles. When it starts to gently pull, it immediately knows when your muscles start to contract and it stops pulling. As soon as your muscles relax, it starts pulling again. The amazing thing is: the computer senses your muscles contraction so early… you don’t even feel what is going on. Which means you never feel any pain! In fact, the only thing most patients feel is… RELIEF!!! But the best part is: NSSD is able to gently separate your spinal bones which, in many cases, actually sucks the herniated disc material back into the disc where it belongs! This takes away your pain and allows your herniated and bulging discs to heal naturally!
And check this out: Treatments are pleasant and simple. All you have to do is lie on your back, listen to your favorite music, read a magazine… or… take a nap! The wonderful technology does everything while you simply RELAX the pain away! To sum up NSSD: • For most patients it is 100% painless… in fact many patients actually fall asleep during treatment! • Works fast! Most patients get relief after a handful of treatments – some after the very first! • Is non-invasive so it does not have the dangerous risks of surgery! • Gets to the root cause of the problem and helps it heal naturally! Isn’t modern technology wonderful? And wouldn’t you like to… Give This Great Technology A Try… For Free? If you would, there’s great news. There is a Doctor located at 222 Westchester Ave. Suite 405 in White Plains who has invested hundreds of thousands of dollars in this wonderful technology and has been treating herniated/bulging disc and sciatica patients with incredible success. His name is Dr. Jonathan Donath DC, MS and he is so excited about the results he’s been getting, he would like to share it with as many pain sufferers as possible. But There Is A Catch… There’s always a catch... isn’t there? Even though this technology has helped a majority of the patients Dr. Donath has treated… it is not a wonder cure and it does not help everyone.
On the right: healthy disc. Center: Herniated disc with soft disc material leaking out. On the left: Herniated disc material compressing or “pinching” nerve.
For that reason, Dr. Donath does a complete examination on every potential patient and only accepts you if he feels you are most likely to get the pain relief and outcome you are looking for. Dr. Donath’s Special Deal For You! Because the economy is so bad and Dr. Donath wants to help you if possible, he is offering the first 17 people who respond to this article a free consultation and NSSD qualification examination. And if you qualify for NSSD treatments, Dr. Donath will also give you one treatment for FREE! And if you do not qualify, Dr. Donath will help you find the best option for you. That’s why, if you suffer with pain from a herniated/bulging disc or sciatica you should call 914-259-8104 right now. When April answers the phone, simply tell her you would like your free non-surgical spinal decompression consultation and examination. If you are one of the first 17, she will schedule you within the next few days. If you are in a lot of pain or already scheduled for surgery, tell April and she will be sure to get you in immediately. Maybe even today.
On right: Herniated disc with spinal bones “squished” together. Center: NSSD slightly pulls the spinal bones apart, opens up the disc space and allows herniated material to move back into the disc. Left: Herniated material completely back in center of disc allows the disc to heal naturally. Your consultation and examination should take about 60 minutes. During this time you can get all of your questiones answered in a warm and friendly environment. You will know exactly what’s causing your pain and the best possible way to solve it. Dr. Donath will explain to you all your possible options along with his recomendations so you can make the best choice for YOU.
Why Limited To 17? Dr. Donath has limited the number he will accept right now to 17 because he does not believe patients should wait and they should also get the quality personal attention they deserve. When you go for your free visit, I’m sure you will see how unique and pleasant the experience is. It’s nice to be treated like a person and not a number or based on insurance coverage. It’s also nice to know exactly what’s causing your pain and how to relieve it as fast as possible. Dr. Donath’s favorite cases are the one’s that were able to cancel back surgery after only a handful of treatments. Dr. Donath also loves when a herniated disc patient that is in excruciating pain and thinks they’ve tried everything, lays down on the NSSD table, takes a 25 minute nap… and… wakes up with all their pain GONE! Just imagine how it would feel to have all your pain finally gone. Imagine going to bed and being able to sleep the entire night through… … and waking up refreshed and energized… ready to take on the brand new day – without the pain and stiffness that has been terrorizing you. And imagine finally knowing you have the solution to your herniated disc pain. Well, you may not have to just “imagine” anymore… because… NSSD might start relieving your pain… in just 25 minutes! So, if you’d like to see if you qualify and give this amazing technology a try for free… give April a call at 914259-8104 right now. Why wait one more day in pain when the solution may be one quick phone call away? Call now before someone else gets your free spot. One More Thing It’s Important… Ever since getting this wonderful technology, Dr. Donath’s office has been flooded with calls. For that reason, if when you call, the lines are busy or you go to voice mail… just keep calling back. The possibility of living pain-free is well worth the time and effort it may take you to get through and schedule your appointment. 914-259-8104
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