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JUL/AUG 2017
Ribbon Cutting Opens Therapeutic Patio at Waveny Care Center p 7
Professional Development & Recruitment Section Begins page 15
The Center for Cancer Care at Griffin Hospital 5K moves back to the Fall p10 Gaylord Adaptive Sports Association Opens Whole New World to Young, Quadriplegic Dad p12
Long Term Care Directory p4
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Jul/Aug 2017
Hospital Newspaper - NE
Hospital Newspaper - NE Jul/Aug 2017
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Hospital for Special Care awarded $1.2 Million grant - its largest ever - from The Maximilian E. & Marion O. Hoffman Foundation HSC to build National Parkinson Foundation Center of Excellence - One of only 40 worldwide
The Maximilian E. & Marion O. Hoffman Foundation, Inc. is awarding Hospital for Special Care (HSC) $1.2 million to build the Maximilian E. & Marion O. Hoffman Foundation, Inc., National Parkinson Foundation Center of Excellence, one of only 40 Centers of Excellence worldwide and the first in Connecticut. The grant is the largest single gift ever to HSC. Parkinson’s disease is a degenerative neurological disease, affecting 1,000,000 people in the U.S. It’s also the 14th leading cause of death, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The latest funding will support, among other things, clinical research and trials; and provide patients access to the full spectrum of evidence-backed therapeutic options, including a neurosurgery team experienced with surgical options for the disease. The grant will also provide additional services outside of HSC regular clinics to improve the quality of patients’ lives. “Hospital for Special Care is already a leader - regionally and nationally- in providing advanced care and rehabilitation in highly-specialized areas, including Parkinson’s disease,” said Marion Barrak, president, Hoffman Foundation. “This grant will provide the resources to build upon that commitment and further its accomplishments.” “We are so grateful to the Maximilian E. & Marion O. Hoffman Foundation, Inc. for this $1.2 million gift – our largest ever - and its continued support and generosity toward our mission of ensuring exemplary care and a full spectrum of medical treatment for complex rehabilitation and chronic disease for both children and adults,” said Lynn Ricci, president and CEO, Hospital for Special Care. To become a Center of Excellence, HSC will accomplish the following national accreditation requirements with the Maximilian E. & Marion O. Hoffman Foundation Grant: • See a sufficient volume of patients to have exposure to the diverse manifestations of Parkinson’s disease and wide array of treatment options; • Deliver care to patients in a team model that addresses the broad spectrum of symptoms and treatment options;
• Employ neurologists with training in movement disorders or a specialization in Parkinson’s disease who balance research, education, and care in their practices; • Offer support services to families and caregivers; • Provide access to the full spectrum of evidence-backed therapeutic options including a neurosurgery team experienced with surgical options for Parkinson’s disease; • Demonstrate commitment to clinical training; • Empower patients and caregivers by promoting and educating around self-directed activities such as managing exercise and nutrition;
• Provide patients and families with access to current information about Parkinson’s disease; • Advance the understanding of Parkinson’s disease through collaborative and investigator-initiated clinical research; • Provide patients access to experimental therapies through participation in clinical trials. On October 1, 2013, HSC opened the Parkinson’s disease and Movement Disorders Center, the state’s first multidisciplinary clinic for Parkinson’s disease. It now offers comprehensive evaluation and treatment for patients diagnosed
with the disease and related neurological disorders. There are many effective treatments for the symptoms of Parkinson’s, however, the underlying cause of this disease remains unclear. For more information about Hospital for Special Care, please call 860.223.2761, or visit www.hfsc.org.
About Hospital for Special Care Hospital for Special Care (HSC) is the fourth largest, free-standing long-term acute care hospital in the U.S. and the only one in the nation serving adults and children. HSC is recognized for advanced care and
rehabilitation in pulmonary care, acquired brain injury, medicallycomplex pediatrics, neuromuscular disorders including ALS research, spinal cord injury, comprehensive heart failure and comprehensive inpatient and outpatient treatment for children and adolescents with autism spectrum disorder. Located in New Britain and Hartford, CT, HSC operates inpatient and outpatient facilities serving Southern New England and the Tri-State area on a not-for-profit basis. For the latest news and information, please visit www.hfsc.org, and follow us on Twitter @HospSpecialCare.
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Jul/Aug 2017
New England Hospital Newspaper - NE
Extended Care Directory CONNECTICUT
NEW CANAAN
WALLINGFORD
WAVENY CARE CENTER 3 FARM RD. NEW CANAAN, CT 06840 203.594.5200 WWW.WAVENY.ORG
WEST HARTFORD
THE MCAULEY 275 STEEL ROAD WEST HARTFORD, CT 06117 860.920.6300 WWW.THEMERCYCOMMUNITY.ORG
ST. MARY HOME 2921 ALBANY AVENUE WEST HARTFORD, CT 06117 PHONE: (860) 570.8200 WWW.MCHCT.ORG
AUBURNDALE
LASELL HOUSE AT LASELL VILLAGE 120 SEMINARY AVENUE AUBURNDALE, MA 02466 617.663.7000
BOSTON
TRANS CARE UNIT AT BOSTON MED CTR ONE BOSTON MEDICAL CTR PLACE BOSTON, MA 02118 (617) 638-5900
HUNT NURSING & RETIREMENT HOME 90 LINDALL STREET DANVERS, MA 01923 (978) 777-3740
FRAMINGHAM
ST. PATRICK’S MANOR 863 CENTRAL STREET FRAMINGHAM, MA 01701 (508) 879-8000 WWW.STPATRICKSMANOR.ORG
GROTON
SEVEN HILLS PEDIATRIC CENTER 22 HILLSIDE AVENUE GROTON, MA 01450 (978) 448.3388 WWW.SEVENHILLS.ORG
MASSACHUSETTS
HOLYOKE
MONT MARIE REHAB & HEALTHCARE CENTER 36 LOWER WESTFIELD RD HOLYOKE, MA 01040 413.538.6050 WWW.MONTMARIEREHAB.COM
NATICK
BEAUMONT AT NATICK 3 VISION DRIVE - 2ND FLOOR NATICK, MA 01760 (508) 651-9200 WWW.SALMONFAMILY.COM
NEW BEDFORD VIBRA HOSPITAL OF SOUTHEASTERN MA 4499 ACUSHNET AVENUE NEW BEDFORD MA 02745 (508) 207.4218 WWW.VHMASS.COM
NORTHBOROUGH
BEAUMONT REHAB & SKILLED NURSING CENTER 238 1/2 WEST MAIN STREET NORTHBOROUGH, MA 01532 (508) 393-2368 WWW.SALMONFAMILY.COM
GAYLORD SPECIALTY HOSPITAL PO BOX 400 WALLINGFORD, CT 06492 1866-GAYLORD WWW/GAYLORD.ORG
WOODBRIDGE
WILLOWS CARE AND REHAB CENTER 225 AMITY ROAD WOODBRIDGE, CT 06525 203.387.0076
NORTHBRIDGE
BEAUMONT AT NORTHBRIDGE 85 BEAUMONT DRIVE NORTHBRIDGE, MA 01534 (508) 234-9771 WWW.SALMONFAMILY.COM
WESTBOROUGH
BEAUMONT AT WESTBOROUGH 1 LYMAN STREET WESTBOROUGH, MA 01581 PHONE: (508) 366-9933 WWW.SALMONFAMILY.COM
WORCESTER
ADCARE HOSPITAL OF WORCESTER, INC. (800) ALCOHOL WWW.ADCARE.COM
BEAUMONT AT WORCESTER 378 PLANTATION STREET WORCESTER, MA 01605 (508) 755-7300 WWW.SALMONFAMILY.COM
FAIRLAWN REHABILITATION HOSPITAL 189 MAY STREET WORCESTER, MA 01602 (508) 791-6351 WWW.FAIRLAWNREB.ORG
To advertise in our directory, please call Maureen Linell— Tel/Fax: 508-869-6201— MRLinell@charter.net
Hospital Newspaper - NE Jul/Aug 2017
Letters to the Editor Dear Editor:
On behalf of all those served by Waveny LifeCare Network, I would like to thank the New Canaan Artisans for awarding us a grant in support of computer technology at The Inn. The Inn is an important part of the Waveny LifeCare Network continuum and is New Canaan’s distinctive senior residence with private apartments with on-site staff who provide a warm and caring environment. This grant will allow us to purchase a desktop computer and printer station for use by all Inn residents and their family members.
We are grateful for the Artisan’s belief in Waveny’s mission, and for their support of our efforts to provide a rich and fulfilling lifestyle to all whom we serve. Their grants are funded by proceeds of their sales of handcrafted items, and I encourage residents to visit them at their next sale at the New Canaan Farmer’s Market in early September. Most sincerely, William C. Piper Chief Executive Officer
ßßßßßßßßßßßßßß
Dear Editor:
On behalf of all whom Waveny LifeCare Network serves, I would like to thank the Rotary Club of New Canaan for awarding us a grant once again this year to fund our Music Therapy Program. This enrichment activity is a vital component of our recreational therapy programs and one of the most popular and beneficial activities at Waveny, enjoyed by residents, patients, and adult day program participants alike.
We extend our heartfelt thanks to everyone in the Rotary organization, and to those who support their annual fundraiser “Lobsterfest”, for making this gift possible. We are grateful for their belief and confidence in Waveny’s mission, and we are committed to provide the highest quality of care for our residents, patients, and program participants. Sincerely, William C. Piper Chief Executive Officer Hospital Newspaper would love to hear from you! Please email your Letters to the Editor to cathy@hospitalnewspaper.com
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Senior Citizens Day August 21st
Declared in 1988 by Ronald Reagan through Proclamation 5847, Senior Citizens Day day has been honoring the contributions of senior citizen and raising awareness ever since. August 21st recognizes the older generation and their achievements through social media and news outlets while others organize special gatherings and activities.
National Health Center Week August 13-19
One in every fifteen people living in the United States depends on health center services. Health Centers deliver high quality, cost effective, accessible care while serving as critical economic engines helping to power local economies.
In addition to their long history as health care homes to millions, Health Centers are also proud to celebrate over 50 years of service and continue to be ranked among the highest quality and cost effective care providers in the nation. Health Centers provide their services to all people, regardless of their ability to pay or insurance status. Each year we celebrate the innovative services and programs that Health Centers provide to the community.
Jul/Aug 2017
Hospital Newspaper - NE
ADVERTISER INDEX
Boston College
15
Fairfield County Medical Association
18, 22
Fairlawn Rehabilitation Hospital
11
Gaylord Specialty Healthcare
13
Goodwin College
19
Heroes Mortgage
24
Nexera
23
The Mercy Community
3
Salmon Health and Retirement
7
Shrewsbury Children's Center
15
Waveny LifeCare Network
2
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By Nancy Sorbella GENERAL MANAGER
Page
HOSPITAL
NEWSPAPER
Welcome to the July issue of Hospital Newspaper! For over 16 years we have been proud to advocate for the hospital industry, medical higher education and for overall health and wellness. As we move forward we are excited to bring more robust content to you, our valued readers, along with a more interactive forum for idea-sharing, trending topics and opportunities to showcase the best and brightest in today’s health and hospital arena. I encourage your feedback and suggestions and promise to listen to what is most important to you. Our hospital partners are doing so much more today than ever for their communities, patients and staff and we want to be right there communicating your message. This month we continue to promote professional development, celebrate those making an impact in the medical field and offering healthy tips for healthy living at any stage of life. Please reach out to me at Hospital Newspaper with your stories and photos and let us know how we might best serve you as a resource. Send your photos and stories to news@hospitalnewspaper.com. Nancy can be reached at 845-494-2784 and at nancy@hospitalnewspaper.com
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Hospital Newspaper - NE Jul/Aug 2017
Ribbon cutting opens therapeutic patio at Waveny
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Together, Bill Piper, CEO of Waveny LifeCare Network and Gerry Roberts, President of Waveny Care Center’s Resident Council, cut the ribbon to formally open Waveny’s newly redesigned and renovated back patio.
On Tuesday, June 27, Waveny LifeCare Network’s Chief Executive Officer, Bill Piper, and Resident Council President, Gerry Roberts, joined forces in a ribbon cutting ceremony to formally open Waveny Care Center’s newly renovated back patio and garden. Beyond being a beautiful and tranquil destination for Waveny’s residents, the new patio is a therapeutic area designed to actively assist in both physical and occupational therapy for Waveny’s short-term and outpatient rehab patients. The garden offers looped pathways made of three different surfaces and textures, areas containing steps of varying heights to assist with reorientation to stair climbing, a ramp platform with side railings, and mailboxes of differing heights to help patients regain independence with basic but important activities of daily living. The area’s centerpiece is a colorful compass that signals true north, east, west and south. “This gift from Waveny is what compassion looks like,” said Gerry Roberts, President of Waveny Care Center’s Resident Council. “It’s a unifying symbol of the entire Waveny community coming together and reaching out to each other. This garden helps us to find inner peace and to talk with nature.” Waveny LifeCare Network provides a comprehensive continuum of healthcare to serve the changing needs of older adults from all areas. Waveny is a nonprofit organization that offers independent living at The Inn, assisted living and short-term respite care for people with memory impairment at The Village, and skilled nursing, inpatient and outpatient Rehabilitation Services at Waveny Care Center. It also includes the Brown Geriatric Evaluation Clinic, an Adult Day Program that provides free door-to-door transportation throughout most of lower Fairfield County, and an array of community-based services through Waveny Home Healthcare, Waveny at Home and Geriatric Care Management. For more information, please call 1-855-WAVENY-1 or visit www.waveny.org.
PAGE 7
If you’d like to reach the health and hospital communities of New England each month, there is no more cost-effective way than the Hospital Newspaper. Call Maureen Linell to place your advertisement: 508-869-6201
PAGE 8
Jul/Aug 2017
Hospital Newspaper - NE
AdCare Employees receive Red-Carpet Treatment at Service Awards Dinner at Holy Cross College Hogan Center
VA Central Western Mass earns Top Honors for Environmental Efforts VA Central Western Massachusetts Healthcare System is among 180 Veteran Health Administration facilities across the country recognized for exceptional sustainability efforts.
VACWM was recognized for environmental excellence by receiving the “Greenhealth Partner For Change” award for 2017. This recognition encompasses efforts including energy reduction, recycling efforts, waste reduction, and green building design.
The award was given by Practice Greenhealth, the nation’s leading organization dedicated to environmental sustainability in health care. It was awarded at their annual gala in late May.
“This recognition demonstrates our efforts to create a better environment of care for our patients, while maintaining a healthy environment in the community where we reside,” said Robert Michalik, VACWM Environmental Protection Specialist and program manager for the Green Environmental Management System.
25 years
provided
Carol Derby, RN, BSN, Nursing, and Mary Emery, Dietary, were recognized for 25 years of service to AdCare Hospital. In presenting their awards, Chairman and CEO David W. Hillis said, “AdCare is fortunate to have Carol Derby, retired director of nursing, employed part time to orient new RNs, LPNs, and CNAs.” Dietary Supervisor, Mary Emery, “is always ready and willing to accommodate our patients and staff at special events and every day,” said Mr. Hillis. 20 years
Joseph Burgwinkle, First Contact Services; Kathleen Coakley, Nursing; Ronald Meagher, Administration; and Judi Osborne, First Contact Services, were recognized for 20 years of service. 15 years
Roxanne Arakelian, Warwick Outpatient; Joan Bertrand, Vice President of Human Resources; Jose Garcia, Housekeeping; Jeffrey Hillis, President of AdCare Hospital; Christine Judycki-Crepeault, Chief Financial Officer ; Mary Kingori, Nursing; Diedre Quealey, First Contact Services; Mark Rebello, Counseling.
The award is designed for health care organizations that have the data and documentation to prove their success.
“From identifying and installing energyefficient equipment, to using less toxic chemicals to lower operational costs, at VHA, we use sustainable practices to provide the best environment of care for our Veterans,” said Richard Hofman, VA’s Green Environmental Management Systems program manager for policy and oversight.
For more information, please visit www.centralwesternmass.va.gov, or follow us on social media at www.facebook.com/VACWMASS.
10 years
Wilfred Allaire, III, Nursing; Susan Audette O’Neil, Transportation, Arthur Centanni, Quincy Outpatient; Beth Chludenski, Clinical Service; Cynthia Gaines, Counseling; Linda Harrington, Boston Outpatient; Winthrop Huyghue, Nursing; Donald Johnson, Counseling; Jane Jolly, Worcester Outpatient; Steven Pappas, Transportation, Jeanne Wilbur, Professionals, Inc.
5 years
Yesenia Alicea, West Springfield Outpatient; Franklina Apeagyei, Nancy Apholt, Gifty Asare, Nursing; Padmaja Bachalli, Fiscal; Richard Berry, Counseling; Debra Bettez, Barbara Boahene Bruce, Nursing; Jeffrey Comeau, Counseling; Comfort Danso, Nursing; Michael Gemelli, Worcester Outpatient; Luis Gonzalez, Counseling; Elizabeth Greene, Maegan Holland, Worcester Outpatient; Sara Jolly, IT; Cynthia Lisiecki, Medical Records; Karen MacDonald, Community Services; Mohamad Och, MD, Professionals, Inc.; Susan Olszta, Leadership; Ross Dedrick, Transportation; Rafael Salas, First Contact Services; Thomas Stevenson, Transportation; Lynne Walker, Nursing.
AdCare’s full continuum of alcohol and drug care encompasses hospital-level treatment in Worcester, MA; inpatient detoxification and residential treatment in North Kingstown, RI; and outpatient services throughout Massachusetts and Rhode Island. AdCare … your recovery begins here. Contact: Mary Beth Papcsy, AdCare Media Relations, mbpapcy@adcare.com, (508) 799-9000, ext. 4058.
provided
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Hospital Newspaper - NE Jul/Aug 2017
Paws with a cause: Animal assisted therapy program benefits inpatients at Brigham and Women’s Faulkner Hospital
Burton
Pets bring great joy to a home. The same is true in the hospital setting. At Brigham and Women’s Faulkner Hospital, inpatients in the Psychiatry Department and on the sixth floor benefit from visits from certified therapy dogs. Through animal assisted therapy, patients’ social, emotional and cognitive functioning can be improved, and their day is simply brightened when they are greeted by a wet nose and wagging tail. Through the Pets and People Foundation, BWFH now has three therapy dogs who volunteer to visit along with their owner/handlers. The Pets and People Foundation trains the owner/handlers and their animals to provide “people therapy through pets.” The foundation then pairs appropriate animals with institutions throughout Eastern Massachusetts. Burton, a 150-pound Leonberger, first saw patients on 2 South, BWFH’s 24-bed psychiatric unit. He now visits 6 South, one of BWFH’s medical-surgical units. His owner/handler, Pamela Isaacson says Burton is perfectly suited to his role as a therapy dog. She describes him as a “moving teddy bear” and says, “He’s so sweet and he’s so very hypersensitive to people’s needs.” Burton himself also
Zoey
seems to understand the importance of his work. As soon as Isaacson puts the therapy dog vest on him, he seems to know it’s time to go to work. On the opposite end of the size spectrum is Zoey, a purebred Corgi, who weighs just 30 pounds. Zoey and her owner/handler Carolyn Sheehan also volunteer on 6 South. “My daughter Megan waited a long time for a dog. She picked Zoey,” says Sheehan. “She said, ‘I love this dog so much, we have to share her!’ So she had her trained over the summer to be a therapy dog.” Sheehan now brings Zoey to BWFH and soon her daughter will begin volunteering as well. Sheehan says Zoey took to her new role quickly, simply sitting next to her patients and allowing them to pat her. In addition to bringing joy to the patients she sees, Zoey has been a benefit to the staff. “One day I came in and the staff was having a terrible day,” says Sheehan. “They wanted to see the dog!” Phoebe, a Golden Retriever/German Shepherd Dog mix who visits both 2 South and 6 North, another medical-surgical unit which also houses the Addiction Recovery Program,
Phoebe
photos provided
lies somewhere in the middle at 68 pounds. She is also a rescue dog. Phoebe’s owner/handler Jen Brountas adopted her from Alabama as a puppy. At the time, she suffered from a broken tail and mange. Today, Phoebe is thriving. “She has a great soul. She’s an old soul. She’s just very sweet,” says Brountas. Brountas decided to train Phoebe as a therapy dog after her father had a stroke and she and Phoebe began visiting him in his rehabilitation center. “We went to the rehab center every day and she loved it! She would just lie down and let people pat her. So we decided to get her trained,” says Brountas. For Brountas, her work with the Pets and People Foundation is very fulfilling. “I’m in that phase of my life where I just want to give back and it’s something we can do together,” she says. If you and your certified therapy dog are interested in volunteering at Brigham and Women’s Faulkner Hospital, call 617-983-7424 or visit our website. All visits from certified therapy dogs adhere to the stipulations laid out in BWFH’s policy regarding animal assisted therapy.
Hughes Health & Rehabilitation receives the 2017 Women’s Choice Award® as one of America’s Best Extended Care Facilities
Hughes Health & Rehabilitation has been named one of America’s Best for Extended Care by the Women’s Choice Award®, America’s trusted referral source for the best in healthcare. The award signifies that Hughes has been designated as one of the top 825 extended care facilities out of over 15,000 across the nation. This is the fourth consecutive year that Hughes has been honored as one of Americans Best for Extended Care by the Women’s Choice Awards. According to the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services, 70% of people turning age 65 can expect to use some form of long-term care during their lives. The Women’s Choice Award helps individuals and families make educated decisions about where to find the best care by evaluating results from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) five-star rating system. The methodology for the award is unique in that it also assesses primary research about women’s healthcare preferences.
America’s Best for Extended Care have received four or five star ratings in the following four categories and must have a combined total of at least 18 stars to be chosen. The CMS rating categories are: • General staffing
• Registered nurse staffing • Quality rating
• Inspection survey rating
Award-winning facilities must have at least 25 residents, Medicare certification, no recent history of penalties or fines and full sprinkler systems. “Choosing an extended care facility can be a very difficult and emotional decision,” said Delia Passi founder and CEO of the Women’s Choice Award. “As women
make the majority of healthcare decisions, our award helps daughters and other female family members find a quality facility to care for a loved one.” Approximately 1.4 million American seniors live in elder care facilities, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. “To be recognized as one of America’s Best in Extended Care for four consecutive years by the Women’s Choice Award is a reflection of the consistent and dependable patient-focused care that Hughes is known for,” said Mark Finkelstein, vice president of Hughes Health & Rehabilitation. “Our family of caregivers do their best every single day to bring comfort to every person entrusted with our care. We deeply value that responsibility, as well as the wonderful honor from the Women’s Choice Award organization.” For more information about Hughes Health & Rehabilitation, visit www.HughesHealth.com.
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Jul/Aug 2017
Hospital Newspaper - NE
The Center for Cancer Care at Griffin Hospital 5K moves back to the Fall
The Ninth Annual 5K Walk/Run to benefit the Center for Cancer Care at Griffin Hospital is moving back to the fall. This non-competitive, familyfriendly event is set for Sat., Sept. 30 at the Griffin Hospital Center for Cancer Care, 350 Seymour Ave., Derby. Check-in begins at 7:30 a.m. with the Walk/Run kicking off at 9 a.m. Pre-registration is encouraged, and the first 500 registered participants will receive t-shirts. Registration is $25. The registration fees will increase by $5 after Sept. 15. Proceeds are earmarked for special needs of cancer patients, such as support for transportation, groceries, and wig and salon services, as well as patient support programs at the Center for Cancer Care at Griffin Hospital. In addition to funding direct patient care needs, the proceeds from this year’s 5K will support the purchase of technological advances in Griffin’s Radiation Oncology department to provide exceptional cancer care that is comprehensive, comforting, and close to home.
The 5K draws walkers and runners from all over the Lower Naugatuck Valley, including participants from Derby, Ansonia, Shelton, Seymour, Oxford, Naugatuck, and all over the state. The 5k Walk/Run was started by the caregivers of the Cancer Center as a way to raise funds to purchase wigs for patients. The first Walk/Run exceeded expectations drawing over 200 participants and raising more than $25,000, providing opportunity for additional financial support for patients as they undergo cancer treatment. Now in its ninth year, the 5K has drawn thousands of participants over the years and raised more than $300,000 to help support local cancer survivors. Participants can walk or run individually, or form a team with their family, friends and co-workers. Participants are encouraged to collect pledges or purchase a commemorative sign to honor or memorialize a loved one at the event. Individuals and teams can register online at griffinhealth.org/5k.
The Ninth Annual 5K Walk/Run to benefit the Center for Cancer Care at Griffin Hospital will be Sat., Sept 30.
For more information, call 203-732-7466 or e-mail 5kwalkrun@griffinhealth.org. The 5K Walk/Run to benefit the Center for Cancer Care still has sponsorship opportunities available, which include signage at the event, company logo on
back of participant T-shirts, and opportunities to distribute promotional products at the event. For more information about sponsorships, contact Laura Murphy at 5kwalkrun@griffinhealth.org or 203732-7466.
Don’t Miss the Sept/Oct New England Edition of Hospital Newspaper!
H NEWSPAPER
Physical Therapy Month Restoring and improving motion for patients in need
HOSPITAL
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Hospital Newspaper - NE Jul/Aug 2017
Dianne Welch, RN, MSN named Vice President and Chief Clinical Officer for Center for Hospice Care Center for Hospice Care recently announced that Dianne Welch, RN, MSN has been appointed Vice President of Clinical Services and Chief Clinical Officer. Welch will oversee the clinical portion of the agency which includes nursing, counseling services, clinical outreach, quality/compliance and volunteer services. Welch comes to us with years of experience in hospice and palliative care, most recently as Director of Hospice and Palliative Care at Visiting Nurse and Health Services of Connecticut. Welch will be part of the Senior Management Team and will report directly to Carol Mahier, President and CEO of Center for Hospice Care. Welch received her Master of Science in Nursing from the University of Rhode Island and her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Rhode Island College in Providence. “I’m so pleased to have joined such a wonderful team at Center for Hospice Care,” said Welch, “I am looking forward to working with such an experienced and professional staff to help our patients and their families understand their options and make good choices in the care they receive. Our goal is to continue to provide quality end of life care for the patient and effective support for their family and caregivers,” said Welch. “We are thrilled to have Dianne join and lead our Clinical Team,” said Mahier. “Dianne has well over 25 years experience in nursing, operations and management and will play an essential role in our entire clinical process. She truly embodies our commitment to provide the highest quality care to our patients,” said Mahier. About Center for Hospice Care Since our founding in 1985, Center for Hospice Care has served more than 12,500 patients. We are the largest hospice in Eastern Connecticut and
the only community based nonprofit hospice. We are also the only provider that delivers all the care and services needed by patients and their families including extended group/individual bereavement counseling to anyone who needs it, free of charge. We offer many unique programs, including Expressive Arts, We Honor Veterans,
and Sentimental Journeys. Our staff is the most qualified and experienced in the field and is augmented by more than 150 specially trained volunteers who provide companionship to our patients and respite to their families.
Pictured: Dianne Welch, RN, MSN
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Jul/Aug 2017
Hospital Newspaper - NE
No “Stone” Left Unturned
Gaylord Adaptive Sports Association Opens Whole New World to Young, Quadriplegic Dad
A quick glimpse in the rearview mirror told 36-year-old Joe Stone that something was amiss in the back seat. His 3-year-old daughter’s seat belt had become unsafely tangled around the armrest of her car seat. As he reached back to untwist it, the car lost control and began careening down a hill. Without hesitation, the father of two removed his own safety belt and hurled himself into the backseat to secure his daughter before veering over the embankment. For a brief moment, he was aware of tumbling, falling, and then blackness. Doctors said it was a miracle that he had survived the crash, but explained that the spinal cord injury he sustained would leave him permanently paralyzed from the chest down. It was a crushing blow to the active Florida resident who loved volleyball and all-things outdoors. “I remember telling my mom, ‘I don’t want this to change my heart.’ I was struggling to find the silver lining,” he said.
Joe found it the day a smiling hospital volunteer in a wheelchair came to visit with a DVD titled “Murderball” in hand. “I thought, ‘what on earth does this have to do with me?’” he chuckled. Murderball – or quad rugby as it’s referred to in the U.S. – is a team sport played by people with physical disabilities. Like its able-bodied counterpart, physical contact is an integral part of the game. “As soon as I was done watching the video I knew I wanted to be a part of it. And four months later, I joined the Orlando Clash quad rugby team. I just fell in love with the sport… it made me feel alive again.” When Joe contemplated relocating to the Northeast two years later, he looked online for a Connecticut-based quad rugby team and a local rehabilitation hospital where he could continue his outpatient therapy. His research led him to Gaylord Specialty Healthcare in Wallingford.
“A few people in Florida even referred me to Gaylord... their reputation preceded them!” he said. After his move, Joe continued his intensive outpatient physical therapy at Gaylord Hospital, an institution he refers to as “top-notch.” There, he used the Ekso Bionics wearable exoskeleton – the only one of its kind in the state – to help him stand and walk. He credits the high-tech device with helping him gain enough strength to stand and take steps on his own using only the help of a walker. Outside of the therapy gym, Joe became very involved with the Gaylord Hospital Sports Association, a program that hosts more than 200 adaptive sports and recreational events each year for physically disabled and visually impaired individuals in Connecticut and the Northeast. The Association offers more than a dozen adaptive sports ranging from alpine skiing to sled hockey. continued on next page
No “Stone” Left Unturned continued from previous page
Program Manager Katie Joly explained, “Our programs are designed to empower individuals to embrace new challenges – regardless of their ability level – and reach beyond the barriers to discover what is possible through adaptive sports.” Joe immersed himself as a team member and later as captain of the program’s Connecticut Jammers quad rugby team and also became involved in the Association’s adaptive water skiing and hand cycling clinics. This summer, Joe challenged himself to a new goal: to become the very first quadriplegic to participate in the Gaylord Gauntlet – an annual 5K trail and obstacle run held on the hospital’s bucolic 400-acre campus. This year’s event raised more than $50,000 in support of the Gaylord Sports Association.
Hospital Newspaper - NE Jul/Aug 2017
Joe trained for months to increase his upper body strength. A support team of more than a dozen volunteers and Gaylord employees prepared creative modifications to help him through more than 20 natural and man-made obstacles including a fire pit, a water slide, wooden walls and a giant boulder. For one obstacle, the mud pit, Joe strapped himself to a boogie board and army crawled under low-hanging wire to the other side. He described how several times, after conquering a particularly difficult obstacle, he would pause to collect his emotions before venturing on. “There were moments that I stopped to bawl my eyes out,” he admitted. “It was a release of all of the emotional trauma I was still carrying. Just knowing that I went from being near death, to not being able to move my body at all, to tackling the Gauntlet was a kind of soul cleansing, that’s for sure.”
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Finishing the course was by no means easy, he said, but the “110% effort” he put into it was well worth it. “The first thing I did when I crossed the finish line was cry. I was ecstatic – I don’t even know if there’s even a word to describe it. They were super-happy tears from a sense of profound accomplishment and pride. It’s been weeks since the race, now, but that feeling hasn’t left. I’m still glowing!”
To learn about adaptive sports opportunities in Connecticut and throughout the Northeast through the Gaylord Hospital Sports Association, please visit www.gaylord.org/sports. Discover more about the Gaylord Gauntlet at www.gaylordgauntlet.org and watch Joe Stone conquer the Gauntlet on Gaylord Hospital’s YouTube channel.
THE EXPERTS IN: ◆ SPINAL CORD INJURY ◆ BRAIN INJURY ◆ STROKE ◆ PULMONARY ◆ COMPLEX MEDICAL ◆ PHYSICAL THERAPY, ORTHOPEDICS & SPORTS MEDICINE
Most diverse adaptive sports progr p g am in Connecticut.
Offering 14 different sports for individuals ages 16 and up with a p physic y al disability or visual impairment.
Summer programs include: Archery, Golff, Cycling, Kayaking, Tennis and Water Skiing.
For more infformation: ormation:
gaylord.org/sports /sp 50 Gaylord Farm Rd, Wallingford, CT
gaylord.org
Veteran’s specific programming.
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Jul/Aug 2017
Hospital Newspaper - NE
Nurse’s Viewpoint By Alison Lazzaro, RN, MSN
Lates
nursteinfo for stude s and nts Hospital Newspaper Correspondent
When a “healthy glow” is not so “healthy”: Mela-KNOW-More
The CDC reports that skin cancer is the most common form of cancer in the U.S. More cases of skin cancer are diagnosed than breast, prostate, lung or colon cancer. Notably, the number of people developing skin cancer because of tanning surpasses the number of people developing lung cancer because of smoking. Know Your Risk: A family history of melanoma, extensive UV exposure, blistering sunburns, tanning beds, and fair skin are just a few of the factors that increase one's chances of skin cancer. Even though this disease is most common in young adults, people of high school age are putting themselves at risk. A CDC study reports that among high school students, only 13% of girls and 7% of boys reported they routinely used a sunscreen with an SPF of 15 or higher when they were outside for more than an hour on a sunny day. Deeper than the surface: Melanoma can occur anywhere on the body, including the retina, nail-beds, and tops and bottoms of the feet. Fungal melanoma occurs on the nail beds, and looks like longitudinal brown or black bands on the nail. Various types of skin cancer can occur. Basal cell carcinoma is the most common type of skin cancer and looks like small, fleshy bumps on the head and neck or other areas. This type grows slowly. Actinic keratoses are skin growths on sun exposed areas that look like raised, rough-textured lesions. These are premalignant, but are a danger sign of cancer. Squamous cell carcinoma appears as nodules or red, scaly patches. This can spread to other parts of the body. What to look for: Use the Glasgow seven-point checklist to help identify melanoma. A = Asymmetry B = Border irregular C = Color varies in the same region D = Diameter >6 mm E = Enlargement or change in size Another helpful hint is the “ugly duckling rule.” Most moles look similar to one another. If a mole looks different, like the “ugly duckling,” it should be examined by a healthcare professional. Other symptoms to monitor for include intermittent bleeding and itching. Prevention: It starts with you- check your skin at least once per month. Utilize the “rule of the shade” - if your shadow is taller than you are (such as in the early morning and late afternoon), your UV exposure is decreased. If your shadow is shorter than you (for instance around midday), you are being exposed to higher levels of UV radiation. Protect yourself from premature aging due to chronic sun exposure, and most importantly protect yourself from a preventable type of cancer. Knowing more about melanoma and other types of skin cancer can help you maintain healthy cancer-free skin.
education & careers
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Hospital Newspaper - NE Jul/Aug 2017
Hospital for Special Care Awards $37,000 in Scholarships to nine local students
Hospital for Special Care (HSC) is honoring nine area students for their academic achievements in medicine, physical therapy and nursing. The third Florence Timura Medical Student Scholarship is awarded to Meredith N. Milligan, a fourth-year medical student at University of Connecticut (UConn) School of Medicine in the amount of $12,000. The second Florence Timura Physical Therapy Scholarship is awarded to Marielle J. Handley, pursuing a doctor of physical therapy degree at University of Connecticut (UConn) in the amount of $6,000. Both scholarships are made possible through a contribution to HSC by Mike Timura, a longtime friend, business associate and benefactor of the Hospital, in honor of his wife Florence. The following annual nursing scholarships are also awarded: • The Rona Botwinick and Florence Timura Nursing Scholarship: Catherine Lagosz, a junior at the UConn School of Nursing, $3,000. • The Rona Botwinick Nursing Scholarship: Audrey D. Gediman, a freshman at University of Saint Joseph, $3,000. • The Florence Timura Nursing Scholarship: Anna Szumska, a sophomore at the University of Saint Joseph, $2,750. • The Dr. Michael Timura, III Nursing Scholarship: Dominique A. Sherman, a freshman at Barry University, $2,750. • The Paul Sutula Nursing Scholarship: Raynasha S. Black, a sophomore at Capital Community College, $2,500. • The Elizabeth Timura Gold Star Mother Nursing Scholarship: Lauren J. Tanner, a freshman at Sacred Heart University, $2,500. • The John Timura Nursing Scholarship: Oliwia Szok, freshman at CCSU, Department of Nursing, $2,500.
HSC scholarships are funded through the Hospital for Special Care Foundation, Inc.’s Annual Giving Program, through the generous gifts of hospital employees, and, in part, through the Advancement for Nursing Endowment Fund established by Mr. Allen Botwinick and Mr. Mike Timura in celebration of and in honor of their wives. Mr. Timura funded additional nursing scholarships. For more information, visit www.hfsc.org.
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Certificate Programs: Clinical Research Info Session September 6, 6:00 pm
RN N Refresher Info Session ssion September 7, 10:00 am
IV Theraapy py Courses Peripheral, h l Centr e rall Line, Li and Phlebotomy in October
UConn Med Students pedaling for public Health, coast to coast
Two UConn medical students continue the summertime cross-country bicycle tour that is now a 12year school tradition. Sonali Rodrigues and Brett Lehner make up the 2017 Coast to Coast for a Cause team. This year’s cause is “An Apple a Day,” a public health project to improve access to and education around nutrition in Connecticut schools. “The money that we’re raising goes toward planting fruit trees on campuses of high schools and other public places,” Lehner says. “The idea is that those trees themselves and the fruit from them are about education and access to healthy fruit, available to anyone who comes upon it when it’s ripe.” Lehner, who grew up in Bethel and completed his undergraduate studies at UConn, committed to the trip in January. Rodrigues, who grew up in Shelton and graduated from Northeastern University, joined on a few months later. Neither claims to be an experienced cyclist. “When I first heard about the trip, I figured the people who would be doing it this year would be people who were really experienced, and I didn’t want to hold anyone back,” Rodrigues says. “But I think Brett and I are kind of at the same level.” The two plan to follow a path similar to last year’s ride, mostly along the bicycle route known as the Northern Tier. It starts in Anacortes, Washington, and continues through the northern border states.
They plan to cover the 3,500-mile journey in about eight weeks. Lehner has a friend from his undergrad days who will join them for the first few weeks. “I’m looking forward to spending time outside, being able to slow down, not knowing what you’re going to be doing in each state, not knowing what you’re going to be coming across,” Lehner says. “Overall the trip is a good way to get to know America a little more, get to know the culture, see a lot of places, and meet a lot of interesting people.” Along the way, the riders plan to keep a blog for remote observers to track their progress: coast2coastforacause2017.wordpress.com. When they return to Connecticut they plan to keep the tradition of inviting friends, family and supporters to join them for the last leg of the trip, a roughly 45-mile ride from UConn Health to the Connecticut coast. Earlier in the spring, the students held an auction of goods and experiences, including faculty-student dinners donated by the faculty, and raised around $6,000. They will continue to fundraise through the end of the trip. Those interested in supporting this year’s ride can learn how at bit.ly/17c2cfundraise. That page also includes a video Lehner created about this year’s trip and the public health mission it supports. Some form of this cross-country cycling tour has taken place each year since 2006, when a pair of UConn medical students pedaled from California to Connecticut to raise money for leukemia research.
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education & careers
Jul/Aug 2017
Hospital Newspaper - NE
CNA: Caring, Necessary and Accomplished
We’re big fans of CNAs. That’s because we know they’re caring, necessary and accomplished people, fulfilling duties calling for many talents. They are counted upon to make other people feel comfortable, safe and appreciated -- quite a responsibility. CNAs bring a sure and steady underlying level of personal care, day in and day out, supporting the plans physicians and nurses put in place to benefit patients and clients in many different settings. They are the most familiar faces to many individuals in rehabilitation centers, short-term, post-op and long-term care environments and at home on private duty arrangements. Excellent CNAs share a number of qualities that set them apart from the crowd. First, devoted CNAs focus their efforts and bring their best selves to situations they encounter to help the people they serve achieve greater ease and contentment. Not everyone has the ability and desire to spend their hours performing tasks which at times try their patience, or might shock or offend them. The bottom line? It’s a profession chosen by people with caring and respectful natures.
John N. Copeland, LMHC joins AdCare Outpatient Services in Quincy as Director
provided
Mr. Copeland brings to AdCare Outpatient Services in Quincy strong administrative and clinical experience acquired in intensive mental health and substance use treatment settings. As Director, he looks forward to continuing partnerships with community agencies and to the new challenge of managing the broad range of services – Intensive Outpatient Programs, Family Treatment, and Specialty Services such as Parenting in Recovery offered at AdCare Quincy. A Licensed Mental Health Counselor, Mr. Copeland graduated Siena College in Loudonville, NY with a bachelor’s degree in Psychology, and earned a master’s degree in Mental Health Counseling from Boston College. AdCare’s full continuum of alcohol and drug care encompasses hospital-level treatment in Worcester, MA; inpatient detoxification and residential treatment in North Kingstown, RI; and outpatient services at offices throughout Massachusetts and Rhode Island. AdCare … your recovery begins here. Contact: Mary Beth Papcsy, AdCare Media Relations mbpapcy@adcare.com (800) 345-3552.
Second, CNAs are acutely aware they are necessary. Being needed, especially in healthcare, is a powerful and motivating thing. There are many ways, large and small, a CNA delivers what another person requires. The satisfaction of answering those needs keeps good CNAs coming back for more. Third, there’s a skill set common to the very best CNAs involving instinct and intuition. They give others enjoyment and peace of mind by sharing themselves, whether through gentleness and extraordinary kindness, a knack for storytelling, song, humor or other special talents and gifts. They are accomplished at extending their most personal touch, confident in the positive effects that result. Because of the valuable assets good CNAs offer, they’re always in demand in today’s healthcare market. Right now, Beaumont Rehabilitation and Skilled Nursing Centers, part of SALMON Health and Retirement in Central Massachusetts, is seeking CNAs to join our outstanding team. With locations in Natick, Northborough, Northbridge, Westborough and Worcester, we feature competitive wages; sign-on and referral bonuses; a stable,
local, family owned and operated organization; full-time, part-time and per diem openings; on-site child care at discounted rates; liberal and indefinite vacation accrual; and a 401(k) plan with employer contribution and immediate vesting. Are you a new CNA? An experienced one? Know of someone who wants to become a CNA? Beaumont offers CNAs free training during work hours and a “Career Ladder” with advancement opportunities. As you can see, we really are big fans of CNAs. Beaumont and SALMON Health and Retirement have a reputation for high quality, innovative services and have been serving Central Massachusetts since 1952. Our dedicated, genuinely caring staff and management team—many of whom remain with us for decades—make ours a place you can feel proud to work. Calls and letters from grateful families demonstrate our success. Please email us at jobs@salmonhealth.com and we’ll respond promptly. We look forward to hearing from you! Visit www.SalmonHealth.com to learn about our continuum of care.
Valley Women’s Health Initiative seeks Nominations of Outstanding Women
The Valley Women's Health Initiative is seeking nominations of area women who have made positive contributions to the community to be honored at its 17th Annual Women Making a Difference in the Valley Tribute Luncheon and Fundraiser. The luncheon and fundraiser will be from noon-2 p.m. on Thurs., Oct. 5 at The Inn at Villa Bianca in Seymour. Over the past 16 years, more than 100 women from various walks of life who live or work in the Naugatuck Valley have been honored at this event. Individuals, business leaders, and organizations are invited to submit nominations. Nominees should exemplify the multi-dimensional role women play in today's society as demonstrated by the contributions they have made to provided positively affect their community. Nominees must live or work in Ansonia, Beacon Falls, Derby, Naugatuck, Oxford, Seymour, or Shelton. Nomination forms are available on the Valley Women’s Health Initiative page on griffinhealth.org or by contacting Dorothy Gandy at dott.g@comcast.net or 203-233-7639. Nominations must be submitted by Mon., July 31. Selected honorees and their nominator will attend the luncheon as guests of the Valley Women's Health Initiative. Tickets will go on sale in August. Sponsor opportunities and congratulatory advertisements in the luncheon’s souvenir program are available. Contact Gandy at dott.g@comcast.net for information. Proceeds are earmarked for the Valley Breast Health Care Fund, a donor-advised fund administered by the Valley Community Foundation. Founded in 1999 with the support and leadership of Griffin Hospital, The Valley Women’s Health Initiative is comprised of members of the community working toward a common goal of improving women’s health and quality of life in the Valley. Its primary goal is to reach out to any person who cannot afford breast cancer screening and diagnostic imaging costs and enable them to receive it.
education & careers Hospital Newspaper - NE Jul/Aug 2017
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Bridgeport Hospital screenings, support groups, classes in August Billing questions – Bridgeport Hospital provides free, confidential assistance to patients and families with questions about their hospital bills. Financial counselors are available during regular business hours to discuss billing issues and payment assistance options, including eligibility for free or discounted care. Bridgeport Hospital also pays a state employee to be on site to help patients apply for Medicaid and other state assistance programs. For an appointment with a financial counselor, call 203-384-3449.
Blood pressure screenings – Bridgeport Hospital will offer free blood pressure screenings at the following locations and times. For information, call 888357-2396. • Bigelow Center for Senior Activities, 100 Mona Terrace, Fairfield, Mondays, Aug. 7 and 21, 9:30 11:30 am. • Stratford Baldwin Center, 1000 West Broad St., Monday, Aug. 14, 9:30 - 11 am. • Shelton Senior Center, 81 Wheeler St., Monday, Aug. 28, noon - 2 pm.
Breastfeeding basics – Saturdays, Aug. 5 and Aug. 26, 10 am - 12:30 pm, Park Avenue Medical Center, 5520 Park Ave., Trumbull. Taught by a certified lactation consultant, this class covers the benefits of breastfeeding, establishing and maintaining milk supply, latch-on and positioning techniques, how to know if baby is getting enough breast milk, troubleshooting, debunking myths and fitting breastfeeding into a busy lifestyle. To register, call 888-357-2396 or visit www.bridgeporthospital.org/events.
Car seat installation – Learn how to properly install a car seat in your vehicle and secure your child in the seat. Bridgeport Hospital provides free instruction from a certified technician. For an appointment, call 203-200-KIDS (5437).
Childbirth preparation – Saturday, Aug. 12, 9:30 am – 4:30 pm, or Sunday, Aug. 13, 9 am - 4 pm, Park Avenue Medical Center, 5520 Park Ave., Trumbull. A class on the essentials of labor and birth. Topics include stages of labor, relaxation and breathing techniques, comfort measures, positioning, partner's role, pain management, medications, cesarean birth, and postpartum adjustment. Newborn care is discussed during the four-week class or during your hospital stay if you elect the one-day class. The class is taught by a certified childbirth educator and provides total preparation for childbirth. To register, call 888-357-2396 or visit www.bridgeporthospital.org/events. Expectant parent classes and tours – Bridgeport Hospital offers classes and tours for new and expectant parents, including: • Birthplace Tours - Thursdays, Aug. 3, 10, 17, 24 and 31, 6 - 7 pm. • Infant CPR Anytime - Thursdays, Aug. 3, 10, 17, 24 and 31, 7:15 - 8:15 pm. To register, call 888-357-2396 or visit www.bridgeporthospital.org/events.
Genetic counseling – Bridgeport Hospital, in partnership with the Smilow Cancer Genetics and Prevention Program, provides weekly genetic counseling services by appointment, at Norma Pfriem Breast Center, 111 Beach Road, Fairfield, and Park Avenue Medical Center, 5520 Park Ave, Trumbull. For information or to make an appointment, call 203-200-4362.
Healthy Traveler service – Bridgeport Hospital’s Healthy Traveler service provides pre-travel consultations, travel vaccines, medications and comprehensive travel information. Services include evaluation of travel-related hazards linked to food, drinking water, insects, animals, deep-vein thrombosis, sunburn, jet lag, swimming, scuba diving and more. For information or to make an appointment, call 203-384-3613.
Physician information and referrals – Bridgeport Hospital provides free information about and referrals to more than 600 affiliated physicians 24 hours a day. Call 888-357-2396 for information on physician specialties, office hours and locations as well as insurance plans accepted. .
Senior driving course – AARP’s Smart Driver course will be offered 9 am - 1 pm Saturday, Aug. 12, in the first-floor Administration Conference Room at Bridgeport Hospital, 267 Grant St. The fee is $15 for AARP members and $20 for non-members, which covers handouts and instructional materials. Classes are taught by trained AARP instructors. Successful completion may entitle seniors to a discount on automobile insurance premiums. To register, call 888-357-2396 or visit www.bridgeporthospital.org/events. First aid and safety classes – Bridgeport Hospital’s Emergency Care Institute will offer the following American Heart Association self-care classes at the hospital, 267 Grant St. Registration is required. Call 888-357-2396 or visit www.bridgeporthospital.org/events. • Administration of Medicine – Tuesday, Aug. 8, and Thursday, Aug. 24, 6:30 - 9:30 pm. Cost is $60 for full program or $25 for injectable only.
• Adult, Child and Infant CPR/Defibrillator Training – Wednesday, Aug. 2, 6 - 9 pm. Cost is $75.
• Basic Life Support for Healthcare Providers – Wednesday, Aug. 16, 6 - 10 pm. Cost is $100 or $75 for recertification. • Pediatric First Aid/Safety and Adult, Child and Infant CPR/Defibrillator Training - Saturday, Aug.12, 8:30 am - 5 pm. Cost is $110 for the full class or $80 for the first aid portion only, 8:30 am - 2:30 pm For information about workplace or communitybased group classes, call 203-384-4497.
Understanding weight-loss surgery – Free informational seminars are held regularly at 112 Quarry Rd., Trumbull, for people interested in learning more about weight-loss surgery. The seminars are presented by Andrew Duffy, MD, program director, and Saber Ghiassi, MD, Bridgeport Hospital site director, Yale Bariatric and Minimally Invasive Surgery Program. Candidates for weight-loss (bariatric) surgery are generally 60 or more pounds overweight or have type 2 diabetes, sleep apnea, gastric reflux, hypertension or cardiovascular disease. For dates and times and to register, call 203-789-6237.
education & careers Hospital Newspaper - NE Jul/Aug 2017
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Griffin Hospital School of Allied Health Careers offers Fall Semester of CNA, PCT and Phlebotomy Training
The Griffin Hospital School of Allied Health Careers, at 300 Seymour Avenue, Suite 206 in Derby, is offering classes for its fall Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA), Patient Care Technician (PCT) and Phlebotomy programs. The evening session for the CNA program starts Sept. 11, and the day PCT program and the Phlebotomy program begin Sept 12. The accelerated CNA course offers students an affordable and condensed six-week schedule with classes Monday through Thursday from 5-9 p.m. Course content includes infection control, legal and ethical re-
sponsibilities, communications, body mechanics, moving and positioning residents, personal care skills, nutrition, measuring vital signs, and restorative care. The program’s clinical experience is at a long term stay facility and Griffin Hospital from 5-10 p.m. for a total of 40 hours. After successfully completing the course and clinical experience, students will be qualified to take the certification exam for a Nursing Assistant in Connecticut. The CNA course tuition fee includes the course book, CPR training, and malpractice insurance coverage for the clinical rotation.
The 16-week PCT program requires students to attend practical training on Mondays and Fridays from 9 a.m.-3:30 p.m., and have the option to take the Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday Phlebotomy classes either during the day from 9 a.m.-noon or during the evening from 6-9 p.m. The PCT program offers ample hands-on training and opportunities for practical experience in the school's fully equipped mock hospital room and during the 160 hours of clinical experience. The course tuition includes textbook, malpractice insurance, CPR certification, and national certification.
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The Griffin Hospital School of Allied Health Careers in Derby is currently accepting applications for its fall Accelerated Certified Nursing Assistant program starting Sept. 11 and its Patient Care Technician and Phlebotomy programs starting Sept. 12.
Workshop offered to discuss sexuality and intimacy challenges faced by staff in continuing care facilities
On Wednesday, August 23rd, Berkshire Area Health Education Center (AHEC) is offering a summer continuing education workshop, Challenges in Responding to Emotional and Sexual Intimacy Among Residents in Continuing Care Facilities, from 1-4:30PM, at Sugar Hill Senior Living Community, 45 Main Street, Dalton, MA. Certified Sexuality Educator, Jane Fleishman, PhD, MEd, CSE will dispel the myths about sexuality and aging and address the variety of challenges that many practitioners face when tackling the difficult world of emotional
and sexual intimacy for residents in continuing care facilities. Participants are requested to bring real life examples of the challenges that they face for discussion in the second half of the program. Credits will be offered for professionals and general public are welcome to attend at no charge but pre-registration is required. An early Bird Fee of $25 is available if paid by 8/5. Please go to www.berkshireahec.org for more information or to register, seating is limited.
Berkshire AHEC, Inc. 703 W. Housatonic Street, Suite 208, Pittsfield, MA 01201 (413) 447-2417 www.berkshireahec.org
The 13-week Phlebotomy program holds classes on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays with a daytime option of 9 a.m.noon or an evening option of 6-9 p.m. The course tuition includes a 40-hour internship, national certification, lab coats, CPR certification, malpractice insurance and textbook. Anyone 18 years of age or older with a high school diploma or GED may apply for admission. Early application is encouraged for all courses, as space is limited. For more information or to apply, call 203-732-1276 or 203-732-7578 or visit griffinhealth.org/allied-health.
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Jul/Aug 2017
Hospital Newspaper - NE
Waveny LifeCare Network celebrates its many volunteers provided
Waveny’s volunteers recognized this year for 50 hours of service (L-R): Megan Archino on behalf of her sister Kristen Raffaele, Alex Montano, Nellie Lalanne, Constance Furlan, Victoria Furlan, Hailey Bacon, Director of Volunteers, Deb Perron; Natalie Bacon, Saitrisha Gulappa, Sister Kui, Martha Porretta and Kip Rand-Riccardi
Waveny LifeCare Network celebrated its many volunteers for their individual contributions of time and talent throughout the nonprofit eldercare organization, including Waveny Care Center, The Village, the Adult Day Program and The Inn. The event marked the mid-point of a week-long celebration in honor of National Volunteer Appreciation Week, which was themed Volunteers: Making the World a Brighter Place. More than 200 volunteers gathered together on ‘Main Street’ at The Village in recognition of their service to Waveny throughout the year. Nearly 50 active Waveny volunteers were recognized for service-hour milestones ranging from 50 to 3,500 hours. Additionally, 29 loyal volunteers received awards commemorating their anniversaries of 5, 10, 20, 25 and 30 years of service at Waveny. “When asked why people volunteer, I say, ‘Oh there are many reasons,’” said Deb Perron, Waveny’s Director of Volunteers. “But I can tell you that it’s the fastest way to make yourself happy. To know that you’re the reason for someone else’s smile and happiness is pretty powerful.” Following additional words of thanks from Todd Lampert, Chairman of the Board, Bill Piper, CEO, and Rebecca Albrecht, VP of Human Resources, awards were presented to the following volunteers for their outstanding service-hour milestones: 3,500 Hours: Dominick Gredoni 1,000 Hours: Jo Ann Dwyer 500 Hours: Chris Dreifaldt, Pat Wood 400 Hours: Caroline Montalvo 300 Hours: Rebecca Serven 250 Hours: Martha Castillo, Sarah Davidson, Michelle Dore, Millicent Gangi, Lynn Hohl, Larry Kenney, Frances McAleer, Sophia Salvatore, Elaine & Lester Sharlach, Ron Zitani 100 Hours: Corey Benz, Emma Castiglione, Christine Chivily, Margie Doran, Collen Fecke, Assiah Ford, Marilyn Gifford, Victoria Lowe, Luis Maia Dantas, Allia Nolan, Natalia Sacristan-Romero, Erica Siegel
50 Hours: Hailey Bacon, Natalie Bacon, Michael Bellacicco, Susan Betterly, Charlotte DeNicola, Janet Firmery, Jaden Ford, Constance Furlan, Lea Furlan, Victoria Furlan, Saitrisha Gulappa, Sister Kui, Nellie Lalanne, Scotty Luntz, Dante Manello, Ellen McMahon, Alexandra Montano, Tyler Pannetti, Martha Porretta, Kristen Raffaele, Kip Rand-Riccardi, Laura Talbot, Leslie Williams Recognition awards for years of service were presented to: 30 Years: Marion Blose 25 Years: Elizabeth Grymes and Judy Gilroy 20 Years: Molly DePatie and Ruth Johnson 15 Years: Sheila McMann, Betsy Messert, Barbara Olsen, Sue Sherwood and Chris Snell 10 Years: Virginia Celaya-Lowry, Debbie & Frank Haines, Daniel Kraus, Flo Milano, Dorie Pease, Richard St. Francis and Laura Tensen 5 Years: Evelyn Aman, June Bird, Jo Bodak, Christine Burke, Dionna Carlson, Fran Crake, Judy Gemza, Mazie Moorer, Mary Jane O’Grady, Susan Staudt Riker, Irene Swanson and Jennifer Weintraub
Volunteers and Junior Volunteers help in a variety of ways throughout Waveny LifeCare Network’s continuum of care. Volunteer roles are tailored to individual skills and interests, with orientation and training sessions provided on-site at Waveny. In addition to providing one-on-one attention, they assist with activities for Waveny’s seniors by helping with social hour, afternoon tea, window painting, reception, gardening and flower arranging. They help with special projects in Waveny’s dining, administrative, development and therapeutic recreation departments, and also lead a variety of intergenerational programs, which include running the General Store or playing games and cards. To learn more about volunteering at Waveny, please contact Deb Perron at 203.594.5334 or dperron@waveny.org.
Hospital Newspaper - NE Jul/Aug 2017
Bridgeport Hospital Auxiliary gala raises over $80,000 to support Neonatal ICU upgrade, other programs
Nearly 150 people attended the Bridgeport Hospital Auxiliary spring gala at Brooklawn Country Club in Fairfield and helped raise over $80,000 for the modernization of the Allison Family Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (ICU), Dr. Tom Kennedy Toy Closet, therapist scholarships for Ahlbin Rehabilitation Centers and other grants and programs to benefit patients. For the third year, the highlight of the gala was “Dancing with the Hospital Stars,” a dance contest inspired by the popular television program. Six hospital staff members were each paired with a professional dancer from Fred Astaire Dance Studio of Southport during the competition, which was won by Director of Trauma Services, Emergency Preparedness and Emergency Medical Services Paul Possenti, also the hospital’s chief surgical physician assistant. Other contestants included anesthesiologist Lisa Caramico, MD, nurse anesthetist Theresa Donnelly, operating room nurse Dana Genarelli, performance management coordinator Nickia Jackson and Chairman of Obstetrics and Gynecology Harold Sauer, MD. “All the dancers were wonderful,” said Auxiliary President Bonnie Molloy, who oversaw planning for the gala with event co-chairs Amparo Castillo, Rita Crispino and Kim Miranti. “They spent several hours practicing over a number of weeks and gave it their all on the dance floor. We are grateful to all of them and to all our gala guests for making the evening a great success.”
The gala also included an auction for items such as a one-week stay at a Bahamas resort and a diamond necklace. The Allison Family ICU is part of the Yale New Haven Children’s Hospital campus at Bridgeport Hospital, a Yale New Haven Health member. The 20-bassinet unit, established in 1972 and last renovated in 1998, has begun a facility upgrade that will provide more privacy and comfort to premature and critically ill infants and their families. The work is expected to be completed by the end of the year. The Dr. Tom Kennedy Toy Closet, named for the hospital’s former chairman of Pediatrics who died in 2015, houses toys and games for hospitalized children, most of them donated or purchased with gifts from the community. Established in 1959, the all-volunteer Bridgeport Hospital Auxiliary has spent almost 60 years supporting hospital programs, services, facility upgrades and staff scholarships. The group also operates the hospital’s gift shop, which offers greeting cards, flowers, clothing and a variety of other gift items for patients, visitors and staff. Bridgeport Hospital, part of Yale New Haven Health, is a 383-bed acute care hospital (plus 42 beds licensed to Yale New Haven Children’s Hospital) serving parts of Fairfield and New Haven counties. The hospital admits more than 20,000 patients and receives nearly 300,000 outpatient treatments annually. The Connecticut Burn Center at Bridgeport Hospital is the only burn center in the state and one of only 64 verified burn centers in the United States.
Staff members participating in the “Dancing with the Hospital Stars” contest included (clockwise from top left) Dr. Harold Sauer, Nickia Jackson, Theresa Donnelly, Paul Possenti, Dr. Lisa Caramico and Dana Generelli.
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Connecticut Children’s Medical Center among Best in Nation
At Connecticut Children’s, our physicians are changing the way children with Crohn’s disease are treated. We’re also home to the nation’s first pediatric integrative transplant clinic. These distinctions are just two reasons U.S. News & World Report ranked Connecticut Children’s among the best in the nation in the new 2017-18 Best Children’s Hospitals rankings. Connecticut Children’s ranked in four specialties: Gastroenterology & GI surgery, Nephrology, Cardiology & Heart Surgery and Urology. The latter two rankings are for joint programs shared with Yale New Haven Children’s Hospital. “These unique collaborations and subsequent recognitions for our joint programs are proof that two competing institutions can successfully collaborate,” said Jim Shmerling, president & CEO of Connecticut Children’s. “Bottom line is that it’s in the best interest of Connecticut’s children and provides them the best access to care.” U.S. News introduced the Best Children’s Hospitals rankings in 2007 to help families of children with rare or life-threatening illnesses find the best medical care available. “The recognition from U.S. News & World Report is a testament to our dedicated physicians, nurses & staff who care for the sickest children while working tirelessly on advancing research and clinical outcomes at the Medical Center,” said Juan Salazar, physician in chief at Connecticut Children’s. U.S. News recognized the top 50 pediatric facilities across the nation in 10 pediatric specialties, including cancer, cardiology and heart surgery, diabetes and endocrinology, gastroenterology and gastrointestinal surgery, neonatology, nephrology, neurology and neurosurgery, orthopedics, pulmonology and urology. “The pediatric centers we rank in Best Children’s Hospitals deliver exceptionally high-quality care and deserve to be recognized for their commitment,” said U.S. News Health Rankings Editor Avery Comarow. “Children with life-threatening illnesses or rare conditions need the state-of-the-art services and expertise these hospitals provide every day.” The rankings rely on clinical data and on an annual survey of pediatric specialists. The rankings methodology considers clinical outcomes, such as mortality and infection rates, efficiency and coordination of care delivery and compliance with "best practices.” Visit Best Children’s Hospitals for the complete rankings.
ABOUT CONNECTICUT CHILDREN’S Connecticut Children’s Medical Center is the only hospital in Connecticut dedicated exclusively to the care of children. Connecticut Children’s is a nationally recognized not-forprofit with a medical staff of more than 1,000 providing comprehensive, world-class health care in more than 30 pediatric specialties and subspecialties. Connecticut Children’s Medical Center is the primary pediatric teaching hospital for the UConn School of Medicine, has a teaching partnership with the Frank H. Netter MD School of Medicine at Quinnipiac University and is a research partner of The Jackson Laboratory. Connecticut Children’s Office for Community Child Health is a national leader in communitybased prevention and wellness programs.
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Hospital Newspaper - NE