As we step into February, our newsletter is brimming with updates and insights to keep you informed and inspired. Alongside our usual features on kudos, shoutouts, birthdays, and trivia, this issue brings you pivotal updates from our IT, Compliance, and Billing Departments. These articles are packed with essential news that impacts our daily operations, so be sure to give them a read!
Spotlight on Health Observances
American Heart Month:
Throughout February, we’re dedicating ourselves to heart health awareness. Look forward to valuable information on maintaining a healthy heart, along with nutritious recipes designed to support your well-being. Remember that Friday, Feb. 7th is Wear Red Day!
National School-Based Health Care Awareness Month:
Did you know we operate five active School-based Health Centers across our tri -county area? Stay tuned to our social media channels as we spotlight these incredible team members and the vital care they provide to our community’s students.
National Children’s Dental Health Month:
Our pediatric dentists are hitting the community to stress the importance of good oral hygiene for our youngest
patients. Keep an eye out for tips on healthy brushing habits and the significance of regular dental check-ups.
A Note of Appreciation
Your dedication to Chesapeake Health Care is invaluable. As we continue to serve our community as a beacon of health and support, remember that every contribution you make is deeply valued and vital. Thank you for your unwavering commitment to excellence.
Wishing you all a fantastic February filled with health, happiness, and meaningful connections.
~ Julie Houk, Marketing & Communications Manager
Department Updates
Medical Records Request Scam: Watch out for Phishing
Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) notes it has identified phishing scams for medical records. This may include scammers faxing providers fraudulent medical records requests to obtain patient records. Such records contain personally identifiable information or protected health information that can be used for identity theft and other illegal purposes.
• These can come directly to providers via eFax.
• Please be cautious of all unexpected eFax communications requesting records or orders for DME, medications etc.
REQUIRED ACTION:
• If it seems odd (see signs of scam below) in any way seek clarification prior to responding. Escalate to your supervisor or Compliance Officer (Shelby Tapman) at stapman@chesapeakehc.org, (410)749-1015 ext. 1632
• All ROI (release of information) requests should be reviewed
• When you review any requests, look for signs of a scam, including:
• Directing you to send records to an unfamiliar fax number or address.
• Referencing Medicare.gov or @Medicare (.gov).
• Indicating they need records to “update insurance accordingly.”
A scam request may include:
• Poor grammar, misspellings, or strange wording.
• Incorrect phone numbers.
• Skewed, stretched or outdated logos.
• Graphics that are cut and pasted.
• May include follow-up call where the caller is insistent/ pressuring disclosure action urgently
- Shelby Tapman, Corporate Compliance Officer
February is National School-Based Health Care Awareness Month
February is National School-Based Health Care Awareness Month! This is a wonderful time to raise awareness about the importance of our centers and how they have a profound impact on health care access in our community!
Did you know that CHC currently has 5 active SchoolBased Health Centers (SBHCs) in our Tri-County area? Our centers in Wicomico County are located at Beaver Run Elementary, Wicomico Middle and Wicomico High School. In Somerset County, our SBHCs are located at Washington High School and in Worcester County at Pocomoke High School.
Our goal is to improve the health of your child by providing high-quality care right at school which minimizes lost time in the classroom, so your student can focus on learning! With proper enrollment consent, we offer these services:
• Treatment for Acute Illness (like flu and sore throat)
• Assistance Managing Chronic conditions (including Asthma and Diabetes)
• Sports & School Physicals
• Preventative Care if you do not have a Primary Care Provider (like annual well visits)
• Counseling on Healthy Nutritional Habits & How to Prevent Injury, Violence and Other Threats
Throughout the year, our school-based team stays busy sharing information about our centers. We attend many school events like Open House, Trunk- or -Treat, Winter Wonderland and more! We will share some school themed photos to recognize our exceptional team throughout the month, so be on the lookout for those.
We are excited to expand our school-based program and offer affordable and convenient health care to our school community! You can learn more about our SBHCs on our website here: https://chesapeakehc.org/healthcare-mdprograms/school-based-health-centers/
- Erica Galeone, RN, Clinical Manager for School Based Health Centers
Department Updates
Athena SSO is Live!
Athena Single Sign On (SSO) now allows easier access to our Athena EMR. Look for the ‘AthenaHealth SSO’ shortcut on your desktop.
On-site with a CHC computer - For most areas, just opening the AthenaHealth SSO shortcut will take you right in to Athena. No more username and password!
Off-site with a CHC computer - You will use the same shortcut, but you will see the Imprivata ‘Log in to AthenaOne’ page. Enter your computer/Windows username and password when you see this. It’s the same one that you use to login to the computer each morning.
Off-site with a non-CHC computer - You will need to visit the site https:// chesapeake.health/athenasso. Set this as a Bookmark/Favorite for easy access. You will see the Imprivata login page where you enter your computer username and password.
As always, if you have any issues or questions, contact IT Support at ITHelp@chesapeakehc.org or 410-548-5053.
~ Jamie Webster, Director of IT
Improving Insurance Procedures
We’ve identified a few areas where we can improve our insurance procedures. Most of this pertains to EVS, CAC, front desk, and other staff involved in registration or billing, but it’s helpful information for all to know.
Here are some important reminders to ensure smooth operations ahead of patient appointments:
1. Pre-Appointment Preparation:
Before the patient’s visit, please verify both primary and secondary insurances using EVS.
2. Verification Process:
During EVS, scroll down to check for any additional secondary insurance information.
3. Patient Check-in:
Upon the patient’s arrival, verify their date of birth, address, and phone number. It helps to confirm details verbally by asking, “Can you please confirm your phone number?” and having the patient repeat it back. Notify billing if there are discrepancies in insurance details.
4. Secondary Insurance Inquiry:
If the patient presents with Medicaid/MCO only, inquire if they have additional insurance through work, a spouse, or parents (aged 19-25).
5. New Insurance Cards:
If a patient provides a new insurance card that may cover past visits retroactively, please inform billing
promptly. Even if the card is new, the insurance might have been active since a previous date. Pediatrics team, your diligence in updating us on new baby insurance cards has been great! Please continue this practice.
6. Choosing the Correct Insurance Package:
While our EMR manages many insurance packages, selecting the correct one is crucial. A common error is selecting BCBS Commercial instead of BCBS Medicare Advantage. If you need guidance on choosing the right insurance package, reach out to your supervisor.
7. Medicare Advantage and Supplement Plans:
Treat Medicare Advantage plans as replacements for Medicare. Medicare supplement plans like AARP serve as secondary to the patient’s Medicare/Advantage plan.
8. Card Scanning:
Remember to scan insurance cards during every visit to ensure accurate billing.
9. Billing Updates:
If you notice charges billed incorrectly (e.g., to selfpay, sliding fee, or old insurance instead of the current insurance), please inform Billing. We do not receive alerts for insurance changes, so your vigilance is crucial.
Remember, we are here to support you with any questions or concerns. Reach out to billing@chesapeakehc.org for assistance. Thank you for all you do!
~Jennifer Swanton, Chief Financial Officer
Kudos & Announcements
THANK YOU to everyone who goes out of their way to help others! If you would like to recognize someone for their hard work and dedication, please use this link: https:// chesapeake.health/Kudos.
Cheryl Waters
Kaitlyn Osowiecki
Leanna Wilson Joann Micle
Nicole Ford Juanita Davenport
Kayla Beiler
Corporate Kennesha Wilkins
Anjanette Cannon Natasia Gaines
Christie Brittingham
Chen
Lisa Brasure Teniya Williams
Valerie Purnell
Healthway
Denise Hernandez
Keyonia Dale
Roberto Donati
Ka'Nyha Raikes
From Jennifer Ward, CHW –“I’m proud to announce that my oldest daughter successfully completed her Master’s Degree in Business Administration with a G.P.A. of 3.9!! Here’s to her next chapter of life.” Congratulations!
Hannah earned her B.S. and M.S. in Nursing from Wilmington University. With nearly a decade of nursing experience, she has worked in critical care, primary care, and specialized areas such as rheumatology, asthma, and immunology. Previously, Hannah served as a Registered Nurse at Peninsula Allergy and Asthma in Georgetown. Hannah has joined the team at Woodbrooke Adult. Welcome!
Health Observances / New Staff
February 2025 National Health Observances
All Month:
American Heart Month
National Children’s Dental Health Month
National School-Based Health Care Awareness Month
Awareness Weeks:
Phlebotomists Recognition Week – Feb. 10 - 14
Awareness Days: February 7 - National Wear Red Day
Please welcome these new staff members who joined our team in January!
Tracy Molock – Sterile Processing Technician at Woodbrooke OB/GYN
Hannah Bristow, CRNP – CRNP at S. Division Street
Danielle Day – Medical Receptionist at Woodbrooke OB/GYN
Shawla Sledge – Clinical Pharmacy Assistant at S. Division Street
Aja Neal – Medical Assistant at Healthway Drive Mental Health
Rebecca Wilson – Registered Nurse at Woodbrooke Adult Medicine (part-time)
Stacey Ellis – Registered Nurse at Woodbrooke Adult
Enya Gause – Dental Receptionist at PA Dental
Lily Alcantara Del Carmen – Medical Assistant at Woodbrooke Adult
Tina Ennels-Dotson – Resource Coordinator at Woodbrooke OB/GYN
Kaitlyn Miller – Client Navigator at PA Mental Health
Melkeva Parsons – Registered Nurse at Woodbrooke Adult
Seryta Chandler – Medical Receptionist at PA Adult
20– Jenny Taylor, Kaitlin Miller, Tina Ennels-Dotson, and Seryta Chandler.
Anniversaries & Birthdays
Sue Gray – 39 years
Terri McNelia – 28 years
Terrell Waters – 18 years
Angela Wright – 14 years
Beverly Wong – 14 years
Wendy Van Hoesen – 10 years
Jennifer Kurtz – 10 years
Margaret Clayton – 9 years
Erin Rizia – 7 years
Jessica Noyola – 7 years
The following staff members are celebrating a work anniversary in February. Congratulations!
Sallie Taylor – 7 years
Rosa Mendoza Matos – 5 years
Ashley Schoofield – 5 years
Patrick Holmlund – 5 years
Sharon Banks – 5 years
Dawn Biester – 5 years
Maria Vansant – 4 years
Lisa Abrams – 4 years
Brittany Yerkes – 4 years
Megan Chandler – 3 years
Jordan Coursey – 3 years
Patricia Hinman – 2 years
Dianna Howard – 2 years
Shavera Collins – 2 years
Kelanah Sturgis – 2 years
Anna LeCompte – Feb. 1
Cheryl Waters – Feb. 1
Michelle Wegt – Feb. 1
Emily Bloodsworth – Feb. 2
Jordan Ross – Feb. 4
Melinda Straub – Feb. 5
Gladys Rivera – Feb. 6
Chloe LaBarck – Feb. 7
Taushell White – 2 years
Denise Richardson – 2 years
Savannah Poorman – 2 years
Dana Burkett – 2 years
Ra’Quel Sinclair – 2 years
Nicole Daniels – 2 years
Cheyenne White – 2 years
Jordan Price – 1 year
Suzanne Jiloca – 1 year
Judith Henry – 1 year
Julie Kinhart – 1 year
Yousuf Ahmad – 1 year
Veronica Purnell – 1 year
Shantia Collick – 1 year
Hailey Downes – 1 year
George Bowden – Feb. 7
Boladale Ajayi – Feb. 8
Lisa Wright – Feb. 8
Kenneth Palmer – Feb. 9
Theresa Kenney – Feb. 9
Consuelo Bailey – Feb. 10
Jodi Meyers – Feb. 10
Kelli Luttrell – Feb. 10
Linda Bramble – Feb. 10
Dana Burkett – Feb. 11
Jessica Ajegwu – Feb. 13
Victoria Stubbs – Feb. 14
Billy Ward – Feb. 15
Brett Hughes – Feb. 17
Robin Gaines – Feb. 17
Jennifer Starkey – Feb. 18
Teresa Green – Feb. 19
Sheila Pillsbury – Feb. 21
Frank Armstead – Feb. 23
Jenny Taylor – Feb. 23
Dana Malone – Feb. 24
Ellen Genesio – Feb. 24
Patience Murray – Feb. 24
Terene Price – Feb. 25
Blythe Eberle – Feb. 26
Jenitza Rivera Calderon – Feb. 26
Evelyn Torrero-Reina – Feb. 27
Meredith Rathkamp – Feb. 27
Sandra Anderson – Feb. 27
Patricia Thomas – Feb. 28
Shantise Wilkerson – Feb. 28
Healthy Living Corner
Heart-Healthy Habits: Easy Ways to Prioritize Your Heart Health
Welcome to February’s edition of Healthy Living Corner, where we’re focusing on heart health in honor of American Heart Month. At Chesapeake Health Care, we understand the importance of maintaining a healthy heart, not just for ourselves but for our loved ones and our community. Here are some practical tips and strategies to help you prioritize your heart health in your daily routine.
1. Stay Active Throughout the Day
Finding time for exercise can be challenging, but even small efforts add up. Consider taking short walking breaks during the day or parking a little bit farther away from the building. Encouraging each other to participate in activities outside of work like jogging, hiking, and swimming can be a fun way to keep everyone active.
2. Practice Stress Management Techniques
Managing stress is essential for heart health. Consider integrating stress-relieving activities into your daily routine, such as deep breathing exercises, mindfulness meditation, or yoga. Taking short breaks throughout the day to stretch and relax can also help reduce stress levels. Additionally, talking to a counselor can offer valuable support.
Ingredients
For the Romesco Fish:
3 Tbsp sliced almonds
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 Tbsp fresh basil leaves
1½ Tbsp olive oil, divided
1 Roma tomato, coarsely chopped
⅓ cup roasted red peppers
¾ lb. cod fillets
⅛ tsp salt
⅛ tsp pepper
For the Broccoli:
1 (12-oz) pkg broccoli florets
⅓ cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 Tbsp olive oil
1 Tbsp lemon juice
¼ tsp pepper
1 small clove garlic, minced
Directions
3. Prioritize Quality Sleep
Sleep is crucial for overall health, including heart health. Aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep each night. Establishing a regular sleep schedule, creating a calming bedtime routine, and ensuring your sleep environment is conducive to rest can all contribute to better sleep quality. Adequate sleep helps regulate blood pressure and reduces the risk of heart disease.
4. Choose Heart-Healthy Foods
Nutrition plays a crucial role in heart health. Opt for foods that are low in saturated fats, trans fats, cholesterol, and sodium. Incorporate more fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins (like fish) into your meals. Try this easy heart-healthy dinner recipe!
By incorporating these heart-healthy habits into your daily life, you’re not only taking care of your heart but also setting a positive example for your colleagues and loved ones. Remember, small changes can make a big difference in your overall well-being. Here’s to a heart-healthy month ahead!
Toast nuts in a dry skillet over medium heat 2 to 3 minutes or until fragrant, stirring often. Pulse nuts, garlic, basil, and 1 Tbsp oil in a small food processor until finely ground. Add tomatoes and red peppers; pulse until smooth. Sprinkle fish with salt and pepper. Cook fish in 1 Tbsp hot oil in a nonstick skillet over medium-high heat 2 minutes per side or until browned. Pour sauce around fish; cook 5 minutes or until fish flakes with a fork.
Microwave broccoli according to package directions. Transfer broccoli to a medium bowl. Add oil, cheese, lemon juice, pepper, and garlic; toss.
Romesco Fish with Lemon Parmesan Broccoli
1. What song by Simon & Garfunkel mentions that “There’s a patch of snow on the ground”?
A) Bridge Over Troubled Water
B) Mrs. Robinson
C) The Boxer
D) A Hazy Shade of Winter
2. What novel by Alice Walker, set in rural Georgia, begins in February?
A) Beloved
B) Their Eyes Were Watching God
C) The Color Purple
D) To Kill a Mockingbird
3. What is the name of the Japanese festival celebrated on February 3rd that involves throwing beans to ward off evil spirits?
A) Hanami
B) Tanabata
C) Setsubun
D) Obon
4. When is Mardi Gras in 2025?
A) Tuesday, March 4
B) Tuesday, February 25
C) Tuesday, February 18
D) Tuesday, March 11
Think you know the answers to these February-themed trivia questions? Send an email with your answers to Julie Houk at jhouk@chesapeakehc.org before Friday, Feb. 7th to be entered into a random drawing for a PRIZE!
5. The colors of Mardi Gras are purple, green, and gold. What do they represent?
A) Love, luck, and wealth
B) Faith, hope, and charity
C) Justice, faith, and power
D) Wisdom, strength, and courage
6. On February 7, 1964, who arrived in the U.S. for the first time?
A) The Rolling Stones
B) The Beatles
C) Led Zeppelin
D) The Beach Boys
7. Which symbol represents Pisces, the 12th or last astrological sign in the zodiac?
A) The Ram
B) The Scales
C) The Twins
D) The Fishes
8. On February 16, 1937, what was patented?
A) Velcro
B) Teflon
C) Nylon
D) Kevlar
January Trivia Questions & Answers
1. In what year did the ball lowering celebration in Times Square first take place?
Answer: 1907
2. In what country is it a tradition to jump off a chair at midnight on New Year’s Eve to avoid having bad luck in the new year?
Answer: Denmark
3. Which city drops a giant chocolate kiss at midnight on New Year’s Eve?
Answer: Hershey, Pennsylvania
4. When did the practice of making New Year’s resolutions start?
Answer: Some 4,000 years ago, with the ancient Babylonians
5. In 46 B.C., which Roman leader made Jan. 1 New Year’s Day?
Answer: Julius Caesar
6. In Greece, what object is baked into a New Year’s cake to bring good luck?
Answer: A coin
7. Around which landmark do people in London gather to watch fireworks on New Year’s Eve?
Answer: The London Eye
8. In Spain, what fruit do people eat 12 of when midnight strikes?
Answer: Grapes
9. An Irish tradition on New Year’s Eve is to add what to the table to pay tribute to loved ones who have passed away during the year?
Answer: An extra place setting
10. What was a major fear as soon as the clock struck midnight on Jan. 1, 2000?
Answer: Y2K bug
Congratulations to Elisha Bullock, Certified Application Counselor at Woodbrooke Adult! She was the winner of our January Trivia Contest. Elisha chose the CHC pickleball set as her prize. Congrats!
