table of contents | april • may 2015
22 MEDI•CABU•LARY.....................12 Local experts define health related terms
JUST ASK!.......................................14 Healthcare questions answered by local professionals
NEW & NOTEWORTHY.............16
The Importance of Recognizing Common Allergies As spring approaches, allergies become a popular topic of conversation. People who think they may be experiencing them raise many issues. For some insight OurHealth turned to The Asthma & Allergy Center in Lynchburg.
A listing of new physicians, providers, locations and upcoming events in Lynchburg and Southside Virginia
HEALTH POINTS.........................18 Interesting facts and tidbits about health
THE ANATOMY CHALLENGE..................................21 How much do you know about Our Anatomy? In this issue, test your knowledge when it comes to the SINUS CAVITY!
ALLERGIES.........................................................................30 Is it allergies or sinusitis?
NUTRITION........................................................................33 HEALTHY EATS: OurHealth staff favorite recipes that are sure to please your palate! Roasted Asparagus, Black Bean Salad, and Fudge Brownies use great local ingredients!
FIT BITS!..............................................................................38 Spring Into Action. This workout is based on a 7-day plan, including at least one rest day. Repeat for 4-6 weeks, and be ready to sport your shorts and tank tops just in time for the warmer weather!
VOTING IS OPEN
APRIL 1ST - MAY 1ST 2015 8
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The Resource for Healthy Living in Lynchburg and Southside
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Breaking the Silence: Aneurysm This series explores diseases that can be devastating to the individuals and families they affect—yet no one is talking about them—until now.
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What if we didn’t... Making a little sense of a mindboggling topic May is Healthcare Workers Recognition Month at OurHealth magazine. Each year, we choose a unique angle to highlight the efforts of those who work in the healthcare industry. This year’s theme is, “What if we didn’t have _____?”
hello, HEALTH!.............................. 52 Capturing the spirit of those working in our local healthcare and of people leading healthy lives through photos.
LOOKING BACK...........................66
BEST THE EIGHTH ANNUAL
Images reflecting the landscape of healthcare in Lynchburg and Southside * PLUS * a chance to win prizes!
BEDSIDE MANNER
AWARDS
IN LYNCHBURG AND SOUTHSIDE
V O TE MAY 1ST – JUNE 1ST 2015
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The Resource for Healthy Living in Lynchburg and Southside
april • may 2015
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McClintic Media, Inc. Steve McClintic, Jr. | steve@ourhealthvirginia.com Jennifer Hungate Deidre Wilkes Laura Bower Karrie Pridemore Amanda Talbott Photography ORIGINAL COVER ART Joe Palotas WEBSITE Next Generation Designs SOCIAL MEDIA INTERN Jourdan Markey
PUBLISHER PRESIDENT/EDITOR-IN-CHIEF VICE PRESIDENT OF PRODUCTION PROJECT COORDINATOR ACCOUNTING MANAGER CHIEF DESIGNERS
CONTRIBUTING MEDICAL EXPERTS Martha Donegan, MD Danny Gnewikow, PhD, FAAA Tammy Hall-Tweedy, RN, CMOM Robert F. O’Brien, MD Mark D. Rodammer, OD
CONTRIBUTING PROFESSIONAL WRITERS Susan Dubuque Suzanne Ramsey Edwin Schwartz Deidre Wilkes
ADVERTISING AND MARKETING Cynthia Trujillo | Senior Media Consultant P: 434.907.5255 | cindy@ourhealthvirginia.com
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COMMENTS/FEEDBACK/QUESTIONS We welcome your feedback. Please send all comments and/or questions to the following: U.S. Mail: McClintic Media, Inc., ATTN: Steve McClintic, Jr., President/ Publisher/Editor: 303 S. Colorado Street • Salem, VA 24153. | Email: steve@ourhealthvirginia.com | Phone: 540.387.6482 Ext. 1 Information in all print editions of OurHealth and on all OurHealth websites (websites listed below) and social media updates and emails is for informational purposes only. The information is not intended to replace medical or health advice of an individual’s physician or healthcare provider as it relates to individual situations. DO NOT UNDER ANY CIRCUMSTANCES ALTER ANY MEDICAL TREATMENT WITHOUT THE CONSENT OF YOUR DOCTOR. All matters concerning physical and mental health should be supervised by a health practitioner knowledgeable in treating that particular condition. The publisher does not directly or indirectly dispense medical advice and does not assume any responsibility for those who choose to treat themselves. The publisher has taken reasonable precaution in preparing this publication, however, the publisher does not assume any responsibility for errors or omissions. Copyright © 2015 by McClintic Media, Inc. Reproduction in whole or part without written permission is prohibited. OurHealth Lynchburg/Southside is published bi-monthly • Special editions are also published • McClintic Media, Inc. • 303 S. Colorado Street, Salem, VA 24153, P: 540.387.6482 F: 540.387.6483. MAIN: ourhealthvirginia.com | ourhealthswva.com | ourhealthlbss.com | ourhealthrichmond.com | ourhealthcville.com | Advertising rates upon request.
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The Resource for Healthy Living in Lynchburg and Southside
What is Tinnitus? Tinnitus (which affects about 20 percent of the population) is the perception of a noise in the ear or head often described as “ringing, roaring, crickets, etc.” Although the unwanted noises may be triggered by nerve damage in the inner ear or auditory nerve, the perceived sound is likely emanating from the neural connections between the ear and brain. Although the cause of tinnitus is generally related to some degree of hearing loss, it can occur in normal hearing ears. In contrast, some individuals with severe hearing loss have no tinnitus.
LOCAL EXPERTS D E F I N E H E A LT H R E L AT E D T E R M S
Currently, there is no cure for tinnitus, although the use of hearing aids may offer some partial relief by the masking effect of the amplified sound. Counseling as to strategies to deal with the noise can be helpful. Commercially available noise machines with a variety of sounds (wind blowing, rain drops, ocean waves) may be used for individuals whose sleep patterns are affected by tinnitus. Tinnitus should always be evaluated medically and audiologically to rule out more serious medical issues. Danny Gnewikow, PhD, FAAA Audiologist, CCC Audiology Hearing Aid Associates Danville | 434.799.6288 www.digitalhearing4u.com
What is epidural anesthesia and how is it used to ease pain during childbirth? The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists and the American Society of Anesthesiologists have issued a joint statement: “Labor causes severe pain for many women. There is no other circumstance where it is considered acceptable for an individual to experience untreated pain, amenable to safe intervention, while under a physician’s care.” Many women underestimate the level of pain they will experience during labor. Epidural analgesia is the most effective and least depressant treatment for labor pain. A catheter is inserted into the epidural space and dosed with a local anesthetic and low dose opioid to provide continuous pain relief with minimal sedation for the length of your labor allowing you to push and fully participate in the birth of your child. An epidural is safe for the mother and baby and is not associated with an increased risk of cesarean delivery. If you do need a cesarean section your epidural catheter can be re-dosed quickly with a stronger local anesthetic for the operation. Martha Donegan, MD
President Anesthesia Services of Lynchburg, Inc. Lynchburg | 434.845.7392 www.asol.md
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H E A LT H C A R E QUESTIONS ANSWERED BY LOCAL PROFESSIONALS
What are some things to consider about skilled nursing services after a hospitalization?
Why is it necessary to dilate the pupils during a comprehensive eye exam?
Medicare covers medically necessary services for skilled-nursing and rehabilitative services after a minimum three-day inpatient hospital stay. Medicare does not cover long-term care, custodial care services or hospice services within a skilled nursing facility. When considering a skilled nursing facility, it is important to evaluate the type of benefits available under your current insurance plan as well. Medicare covers the first 20 days of each benefit period at 100 percent. Days 21-100 are covered by Medicare at 80 percent with the remaining 20 percent co-insurance being paid either privately or by your Medicare supplemental insurance. Another factor to think about when considering skilled services is the type of services offered at the facility. Ideally, the facility should feature registered nurses, therapists and specially trained staff who help patients feel at home during their recovery. This would include nursing and rehabilitative staff that are trained in post-hospital stroke, heart and orthopedic care as well as wound care, pain management and complex medical conditions.
Pupil dilation is essential to effectively examine the inside of the eye. Even if vision is clear and there is no eye pain, the entire inside of the eye must be examined. There could be a sight-threatening condition, like a retinal tear, which could lead to a retinal detachment or even a life-threatening condition, such as a malignant tumor.
Tammy Hall-Tweedy, RN, CMOM Medical Care Center Lynchburg | 434.846.4626 www.heartland-manorcare.com
A good analogy is: there is a room, a door and a keyhole; if you view the room through the keyhole (an undilated pupil), you will see only the center of the room; if you open the door (dilate the pupils), much more of the room can be seen. Pupil dilation is now considered mandatory standard of care during an eye examination. Typically, dilating the pupils does not affect corrected distance vision and patients can safely drive after their appointment. An exception could be an uncorrected hyperope (farsighted individual). Disposable sunglasses are usually provided by the eye doctor so light sensitivity is not a problem when leaving the office. Mark D. Rodammer, OD St. Clair Eye Lynchburg | 434.239.2800 www.stclair-eye.com
What are the differences between X-ray, CT, ultrasound and MRI, and what is each used to diagnose? X- ray films are obtained by passing X-rays through a subject and measuring how much reaches the other side. X-rays differentiate tissues of different radio densities. They can evaluate large areas, but it is like “looking at the forest, rather than the trees.” CT also uses X-rays, but circles the patient or objects and uses computers to analyze, and form pictures from the data. This is better at seeing more subtle differences in densities, but requires significantly more radiation. Ultrasound uses sonic waves to bounce off tissue of varying sound densities. Again a computer analyzes the data and forms pictures. It is very time intensive, is generally used for small areas of interest at a time, and is good for soft tissues, not bone or lung. MRI uses a magnetic field and radio frequencies, which interact with molecules and produces energy that is then analyzed by a computer to make pictures. This is very time intensive, and usually used to evaluate a single small area at a time. MRI is especially good at evaluating the neural structures, and solid organs as well as orthopedic imaging. Robert F. O’Brien, MD Insight Imaging Roanoke | 540.581.0881 www.mycdi.com/roanoke
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NEW
NOTEWORTHY
NEW PHYSICIANS, P R O V I D E R S , L O C AT I O N S AND UPCOMING EVENTS
Medical Care Center changes name to better reflect their services and markets served Medical Care Center is pleased to announce a name change of our comprehensive rehabilitation and skilled nursing center. To better meet our community needs and make it easier for patients and referral sources to identify us, our parent company has made a concerted effort to define all of our facilities by the markets they serve. Medical Care Center will now be called Heartland of Lynchburg.
A New Look. A Great Passion for Caring. Same Great Team. Central Virginia Family Physicians is proud to introduce a new look, reflective of their focus on being the leader in the future of patient care. CVFP will provide “Better Health. Better Life.” by building on the outstanding quality and service that is their hallmark. Serving: Appomattox, Forest, Monelison, New London, Piedmont, Rustburg, Staunton River, Timberlake; Immediate Care: Airport & Lakeside Drive. Visit www.CVFP.net.
As a pioneer in providing post-acute care to patients transitioning from hospital to home, Heartland has been synonymous with being the premier post-acute provider of complex skilled nursing and rehabilitation services throughout the country by health plans and hospital systems. With our name change, you can depend on us as a proven leader in quality care. Here are some of the facts: • Heartland treats more medically complex patients than any other provider in the markets we serve • Heartland returns patients back to their lives more than any other provider • Heartland provides state-of-the-art facilities with cutting edge rehabilitative technology • Heartland’s clinical nursing team has the additional training and education to meet the needs of the post-acute patient • Heartland provides ongoing communication between patient and physician to help reduce unnecessary readmissions • Heartland focuses on patient and caregiver education and wellness • Heartland responds quickly to place patients in the center that best meets their healthcare needs For more information about our services or to make a referral, please contact us at 434.846.4626 or visit our website at www.heartland-manorcare.com/MedicalCare.
Sue Copsetta, NP Centra Medical Group Stroobants Cardiovascular Center Lynchburg | 434.200.5252 www.stroobantscardiovascular.com
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Dorothy Murphy, NP Centra Medical Group Stroobants Cardiovascular Center Lynchburg | 434.200.5252 www.stroobantscardiovascular.com
Heather Schaubach, PA Centra Medical Group Stroobants Cardiovascular Center Lynchburg | 434.200.5252 www.stroobantscardiovascular.com
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T I P S , T I D B I T S A ND MO R E TO IN F O R M A ND ENT ERTA I N YO U
What
Causes
Allergies? The substances that cause allergic disease in people are known as allergens. “Antigens,” or protein particles like pollen, food or dander enter our bodies through a variety of ways. If the antigen causes an allergic reaction, that particle is considered an “allergen” – an antigen that triggers an allergic reaction. These allergens can get into our body in several ways: Inhaled into the nose and the lungs. Airborne pollens of certain trees, grasses and weeds; house dust that include dust mite particles, mold spores, cat and dog dander and latex dust. Ingested by mouth. Frequent culprits include shrimp, peanuts and other nuts. Injected. Such as medications delivered by needle like penicillin or other injectable drugs, and venom from insect stings and bites. Absorbed through the skin. Plants such as poison ivy, sumac and oak and latex are examples. For more information on allergies, visit the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America at www.aafa.org
Celebrate
NATIONAL STRESS AWARENESS DAY
April 16, 2015
Taking a breath every once in a while is the best thing you can do for your overall health, and April 16, is a special day set aside for Americans to be aware of just how stressed they may have become! Here are some tips:
• Exercise. Chemicals called endorphins are released during exercise that lend a feeling of relaxation and wellbeing.
• Meditate • Get enough rest • Pet your dog—or any other pet. Unconditional love pets exhibit help to naturally lower blood pressure
Be aware of the people or events that habitually cause stress in your daily life. Just knowing the usual triggers may go a long way in helping to avoid them.
*****
FASCINATING
FACT
When you exercise hard, your body BURNS UP ENERGY
TIMES AS FAST as normal!
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May is...
STROKE
NATIONAL AWARENESS MONTH National Stroke Awareness Month is an annual event held within the United States. The aim of National Stroke Awareness Month is to make Americans aware that they may be able to ‘Save A Life’ of a person experiencing a stroke.
According to the National Stroke Association, a person experiencing a stroke can be treated if people have acted FAST - 80 percent of strokes can also be prevented.
FAST is an acronym for things to check in a suspected stroke victim: F-Face: Does the face droop on one side when the person smiles? A-Arm: After raising both arms, does one of the arms drift downwards? S-Speech: After repeating a simple phrase, does the persons speech sound slurred or strange? T-Time: If any or all of the above are observed call 9-1-1 immediately, and ask for medical assistance.
For more information, visit the National Stroke Association website at www.stroke.org.
DID YOU KNOW?
Heart of Virginia 2015
10K Run & 5K Walk
The annual Heart of Virginia Festival on Saturday, May 3, will get off to a running start with a 10 kilometer run. Those who prefer a slightly less vigorous way to begin the day may substitute a 5 kilometer fun walk instead. Date: Saturday, May 3, 2015 Time: 8:30 AM Location: Hampden-Sydney College 1 College Road Farmville, VA 23901 For more information, contact the Farmville Recreation Department at 434.392.8465, or email the race director at cbolt@farmvilleva.com.
Walk in March for Babies and give hope to nearly half a million babies born too soon each year. The money raised supports programs in the community that help moms have healthy, fullterm pregnancies. And it funds research to find answers to the problems that threaten babies.
March for Babies Lynchburg 2015 A baby’s brain is one of the fastest growing parts of its body!
Date: Saturday, April 18, 2015 Time: 10:00am Location: Wyndhurst, 1400 Enterprise Drive Lynchburg, VA 24502 For more information, call 540.434.7789 or email VA474@marchofdimes.org www.OurHealthVirginia.com
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The Anatomy Challenge is proudly sponsored by
the
Anatomy
CHALLENGE
Here’s your chance to see how much you know about your Sinuses! First, fill in the word search puzzle below. Next, match up the correct word with the part of the body in the illustration.
[ the Sinus Cavity ]
WORD SEARCH frontal sinus
adenoid
superior turbinate
nasal vestibule
middle turbinate
nasal cavity
inferior turbinate
eustachian tube orifice
sphenoid sinus
fossa of rosenmuller
nosopharynx
_______________________ _______________________
_______________________
_______________________
_______________________ _______________________
_______________________
_______________________ _______________________
_______________________ _______________________ For answers, visit OurHealth Lynchburg
and Southside’s Facebook page at
Proudly Serving the Lynchburg Communities 1714 Thomason Drive | Lynchburg, VA 24501 | 434.846.2244 www.OurHealthVirginia.com
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the importance of recognizing
common words | EDWIN SCHWARTZ original artwork |JOE PALATOS
As spring approaches, allergies become a popular topic of conversation. People who think they may be experiencing them raise many issues. These often include: the effects of common allergens, prevalent allergy myths and the importance of allergy diagnosis. For some insight OurHealth turned to The Asthma & Allergy Center in Lynchburg. •••••
The effects of common allergens Many people may be affected by allergens and not realize it. “House dust mites, so small you can fit 50 of them on the period at the end of this sentence, live by the tens of millions in mattresses and pillows,” explains Dane C. McBride, MD, a pediatric and adult allergy and asthma specialist with The Asthma & Allergy Center. These mites do not bite, but can cause children to have constant colds and frequent ear infections. The infections can lead to fluid development behind the eardrum that can reduce hearing by 15 percent. This kind of impairment may cause young children to suffer in language and social development. “Adults may just feel constantly tired or sniffling all the time, and have gotten used to sneezing often,” says Dr. McBride. “When all along, it was due to an allergy caused by millions of bed companions, the house dust mites.”
Can everyday allergens be life threatening? Reprints To order reprints of the original artwork featured on this issue’s
Most people know some allergens can be dangerous, especially for those allergic to bee stings or specific foods such as peanuts. But everyday allergens such as pollen and dust, despite their daily annoyance, are rarely life threatening.
cover, contact Deidre Wilkes at 540.387.6482 or via email at deidre@ourhealthvirginia.com. To view additional work by our artist, Joe Palotas, visit www.salemartcenter.com www.OurHealthVirginia.com
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How allergies are mistaken for something else. Years ago, medical science treated hives and swelling episodes as a problem of nervous anxiety. But if food allergy is the real culprit, failure to recognize the actual cause could result in continued ingestion of the offending allergen. This could cause a more serious, even life-threatening episode. It is always worthwhile to see an allergy specialist to discover the true cause of this uncomfortable condition. “The common inhalant allergies mostly just make you feel bad, like having a cold and feeling exhausted,” says Dr. McBride. “But for those who are severely allergic to plant pollen, they can be debilitated in the height of the spring or fall pollen seasons. May is the worst month in this part of the country.” It is important to note that if you have allergic asthma, intense exposure to everyday inhalant allergies can cause a severe or life-threatening asthma attack, and should be treated promptly and aggressively.
How untreated allergies can change your body Allergic reactions in the respiratory membranes cause inflammation and excess mucous production. If left untreated, chronic inflammation can result which can produce an irreversible thickening of these lining membranes. “This is particularly problematic in the sinuses and in the bronchial tubes of the lungs,” says Dr. McBride. “So that even in a non-smoker, chronic bronchitis and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) can develop.”
Antibiotics and the importance of allergy testing A less direct way allergies may cause bodily change pertains to the use of antibiotics to treat allergylike symptoms. In these cases it is important for patients to be tested for allergies for two reasons: to get proper treatment and to avoid developing immunity to antibiotics. Proper treatment includes strategies to avoid or control exposure to the allergen, and a specific plan to treat a patient’s symptoms while limiting the amount of medication. In cases where allergies contribute to ear or sinus infections, antibiotics may www.OurHealthVirginia.com
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be required. But the use of antibiotics could be decreased or avoided if the underlying allergies are properly controlled. Overuse of these medicines can result in the development of bacteria that are no longer responsive to antibiotics. “Treating the root cause of recurrent infections is clearly preferable to simply treating repeatedly with antibiotics,” says Dr. McBride.
Transitioning from OTC medications to allergy treatment Due to high deductible health plans, there is a growing temptation to relieve allergy symptoms with over-thecounter (OTC) medications. This raises the question of when patients should shift from addressing their symptoms to actual disease management. Dr. McBride outlines the ways of treating allergies in three parts: allergen avoidance measures, taking medications that blunt their effects and allergy immunotherapy (usually shots, but some tablets or drops under the tongue are available for particular allergens). All three treatments are useful, but only immunotherapy makes the patient less allergic. There are some very good medications such as non-sedating antihistamines and intranasal steroids. These were prescription drugs but are now available OTC. “It is reasonable to try these first,” says Dr. McBride. “But when they are not satisfactorily controlling the symptoms, additional help should be sought from an allergy specialist.” Specialized testing can identify specific allergens to be largely avoided. It can also eliminate continuing medication for long-term symptoms. Allergy specialists can identify a person’s specific sensitivities and advise a customized combination of the three approaches.
Common myths about allergies There are many popular misnomers about allergies. A popular one is that 26
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Why allergies should not be taken lightly The importance of proper allergy treatment is really a quality of life issue. “Neglected asthma can deteriorate to chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), not to mention asthma fatalities which continue to occur needlessly,” says Dr. McBride. “Allergies untreated in early childhood greatly increase the likelihood of developing asthma in later childhood or early adulthood.” eating honey can reduce pollen allergies. “This has been studied very carefully and proven to be false,” explains Dr. McBride. This also means swallowing pollen capsules collected from honeybees will not cure pollen allergies. The explanation is simple. People develop allergies to wind-borne allergies. This is not the pollen bees collect. Bees collect their pollen from flowers, because this type of pollen does not fly through the air. A second myth is that children will generally outgrow their allergies. Although some will lose their sensitivity over time, most do not. At The Asthma & Allergy Center, 70 percent of the patients are adults who have had allergies most of their lives and did not outgrow them. Another myth is if you are allergic to something, you can build up immunity by deliberately exposing yourself to massive amounts of it. Even though this is the concept behind immunotherapy, or allergy shots, it is dangerous to do this on your own. “A related example of this is deliberately eating poison oak as a strategy for losing one’s sensitivity to it,” says Dr. McBride. “This has almost universally dreadful results.”
Getting results in everyday lives Dr. McBride sees a dramatic difference in patients’ quality of life almost every day. Such rewards of the specialty include: seeing a young person formerly sidelined for severe asthma now able to participate fully in sports; helping an American Electric Power (AEP) lineman keep his job and feel comfortable working outside; and fully controlling a great-grandmother’s terrible itching condition that caused scaling of the skin from head to toe. www.OurHealthVirginia.com
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What Makes the Asthma & Allergy Center Unique In describing how The Asthma & Allergy Center provides exceptional care for their patients, Dr. McBride offers five distinctions. First, they listen to their patients. Second, they use cutting edge understanding and technology that follow nationally accepted practice guidelines to produce excellent results. Third, the medical and administrative staff maintains a tradition of focusing on the patients’ interests. Fourth, all the doctors are board certified with either a pediatric or internal medicine background before entering the field of allergy. Dane McBride, MD of Asthma and Allergy Center in Lynchburg is certified by the American Board of Allergy and Immunology, and by the American Board of Pediatrics.
Lastly, the physicians at The Asthma & Allergy Center have been chosen by their fellow allergists to be leaders in their specialty for 68 years of continuous practice. “When any establishment has been around for 68 years, they are doing a lot of things right,” concludes Dr. McBride.
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is it allergies
or SINUSITIS?
words | EDWIN SCHWARTZ
Due to the similarity between sinusitis and allergy symptoms, one is often mistaken for the other. To learn more about how to recognize sinusitis, OurHealth consulted Blue Ridge Ear, Nose, Throat & Plastic Surgery in Lynchburg.
What is sinusitis? Sinusitis is a common inflammatory condition of the sinuses, the airfilled structures within the facial skeleton on both sides of the nose. Specifically, it is an inflammation of the mucosal membrane of the sinuses that can lead to both acute and chronic disease. This inflammation can cause obstruction of the normal drainage routes that can lead to bacterial overgrowth. Two possible triggers are allergies or upper respiratory infections.
Typical symptoms Symptoms of sinusitis include: nasal drainage, nasal congestion, facial pain/pressure (especially on one side and focused near a particular sinus), headache, post-nasal drainage, fever and dental pain.
Confusing sinusitis with other conditions Because these symptoms overlap with those of colds and allergies, sufferers often misdiagnose their ailment. “Allergies, viral infections or sometimes non-allergy problems with the nose can cause similar symptoms (to sinusitis) such as nasal congestion, drainage and facial pressure,” explains Christie Powers, PA-C, with Blue Ridge Ear, Nose, Throat & Plastic Surgery.
Diagnosing and treating sinusitis “Any healthcare provider can treat sinusitis,” says Powers. “If conservative treatment fails, then consulting an ear, nose and throat specialist would be warranted.” Sinusitis is diagnosed using the patient’s history and can be confirmed by CAT scan or looking in the nose with a small endoscope. Acute bacterial sinusitis (infection lasting for less than four weeks) is typically treated with a course of antibiotics, topical nasal decongestant for three to four days, salt-water irrigation and a nasal steroid spray.
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Chronic sinusitis (infection present for more than 12 weeks) is initially treated with the goal to reduce the inflammatory part of the disease. Treatment options include prolonged intranasal steroids or intranasal antihistamines, oral antihistamines, other allergy medications and allergy shots for allergic disease. In cases where bacterial infection is suspected to be the underlying cause, the patient is then treated with a longer course of oral antibiotics.
When is sinus surgery necessary? Sinus surgery may be necessary when conservative management fails. Functional endoscopic sinus surgery (FESS) is the most common minimally invasive sinus surgery now performed. “Balloon sinuplasty is a newer and less invasive option for certain patients,” says Powers. “This can be comfortably done in the office.”
Christie Powers, PA-C, sees patients at Blue Ridge Ear, Nose, Throat & Plastic Surgery in Lynchburg.
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Healthy Eats Fruits and vegetables have a prime time when they are at their seasonal best. Some are great for over half of the year; others only hit their peak for a month. Either way, peak season means extra flavor, extra crunch, extra juiciness—all super-fresh and great value. Shopping seasonally not only helps your budget, but offers a great way to add variety to your diet.
Local farmers markets and CSAs bring you farm ripened, fresh picked produce. (CSA: Community Supported Agriculture. CSA allows city residents to have direct access to high quality, fresh produce grown locally by regional farmers. When you become a member of a CSA, you're purchasing a “share” of vegetables from a regional farmer.)
Easy Roasted Asparagus Serves 4
Ingredients:
4. Mix olive oil and garlic together and drizzle over the spears.
2 pounds asparagus
5. Roll the asparagus back and forth until they are all covered.
1 tablespoon olive oil 1 teaspoon garlic 1 teaspoon grated lemon peel 1 teaspoon parsley
3. Lay the asparagus spears out in a single layer in a baking dish or a foilcovered roasting pan.
6. Place in oven for 8-10 minutes until lightly brown and tender. 7. Sprinkle evenly with lemon zest, parsley and salt and pepper.
Salt and pepper to taste
Directions: 1. Preheat oven to 400°F. 2. Rinse clean the asparagus and break off the ends.
OurHealth Staff Favorite
ROASTED ASPARAGUS for more recipes follow us on Pinterest or visit our website at ourhealthlbss.com
Healthy Eats Black Bean Salad Serves 6
Ingredients: 6 cups canned black beans, drained and rinsed ½ cup minced red pepper ½ cup minced red onion 4 tablespoons minced cilantro 2 cups roasted corn 2 tablespoons scallion 2 tablespoons cilantro
Ingredients for Dressing: 1 tablespoon cumin 1 teaspoon coriander 1 teaspoon garlic 1 tablespoon lime zest ½ cup olive oil 3 tablespoons lime juice
Salt and pepper to taste
Directions: 1. Mix salad ingredients in a medium bowl and toss. 2. In a separate bowl, combine dressing ingredients and pour over salad. 3. Toss again. 4. Chill for 1 hour before serving. Salad can also be served at room temperature.
OurHealth Staff Favorite
BLACK BEAN SALAD for more recipes follow us on Pinterest or visit our website at ourhealthlbss.com
The Resource for Healthy Living in Lynchburg and Southside
Local health. Anywhere you go. OurHealth magazine is Lynchburg & Southside’s only resource entirely dedicated to delivering information about local healthcare services and healthy living topics. Pick up our print edition at more than 900 locations throughout the area or get the digital edition by visiting www.ourhealthlbss.com.
Healthy Eats Gluten Free Fudge Brownies
Directions
Ingredients
3. Melt butter & chocolate over double boiler, blending gently. Allow to cool slightly.
2. Spray 9 x 9 pan with nonstick spray.
½ cup chocolate chips, unsweetened 6 oz butter
4. Combine eggs, sugar & vanilla in a mixing bowl.
3 whole eggs 1 cup + 2 tablespoons turbinado sugar 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 1
tablespoon baking soda
¼ cup Bob’s Gluten Free flour ½ cup walnuts (optional)
6. Blend 1/3 of the egg mixture into the chocolate-butter mixture.
1. Preheat oven to 375ºF.
5. Beat using wire whisk until thick and light in color. Scrape down sides of bowl as needed.
7. Blend chocolate mixture into egg mixture, scraping down sides of bowl as needed. 8. Add flour, baking soda, and nuts blending gently. 9. Batter will be wet. 10. Pour into prepared pan. 11. Bake for about 45 – 50 minutes, or until crust forms but product is still moist in center. 12. Allow to cool completely before cutting and unmolding.
OurHealth Staff Favorite
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FITBITS
H EA LT H A ND F I T NES S O N
Deidre Wilkes, AFAA, ACSM, Certified Personal Trainer
THE GO
Spring into Action!
Deidre is a certified personal trainer with more than 15 years experience in the health and fitness industry. She is the resident fitness specialist for OurHealth Lynchburg and Southside
This workout is based on a 7-day plan, including at least one rest day. Repeat for 4-6 weeks, and be ready to sport your shorts and tank tops just in time for the warmer weather! *Consult with your physician/provider before beginning any new fitness program.
Make sure you are properly warmed up before you begin this workout! Your warm-up should consist of 5-7 minutes of low-impact movement, such as marching in place or walking.
Day 1:
Strength Training Program Perform each exercise per diagram at right for one min with a 15-second transition between each step. (Completing steps 1-10 is one set). Rest two minutes between each set. Complete 2-3 sets.
Day 2:
Take a cycle class or spend 45 minutes on an elliptical machine
Day 3:
2.
Upright Row with Tubing
1.
15 second rest
3.
Hamstring Curl on Ball 15 second rest
4.
Squats
15 second rest
Overhead Press with Weights
REST DAY!
Day 4:
Strength Training Program (repeat day 1)
Day 5:
Take a mind/body class, such as yoga, pilates or barre.
Day 6:
Engage in 45-minutes of outdoor cardio, such as walking/jogging/ biking (weather-permitting). Take advantage of nice weather days! (In case of inclement weather, take it ‘indoors’ using the treadmill, bike or elliptical machine.)
Day 7:
Take a group fitness class, do an ‘at-home’ workout such as the one featured in the February/ March 2015 issue of OurHealth Lynchburg and Southside (scan this QR code to view the February/ March digital version of Fit Bits located on page 42) or, if needed Day 7 can be used as another ‘rest’ day!
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10.
15 second rest
5.
DAY 1 Strength Training
Plank
15 second rest
15 second rest
9.
Reverse Fly with Weights 15 second rest
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8.
Triceps Kickbacks with Weights 15 second rest
Alternating Lunges
7.
Push-Ups 15 second rest
6.
Bicep Curls with Weights 15 second rest
With renewed health, a beautiful grandchild and music in her heart, Sue says, “I am truly blessed.� Sue Palmer of Dundas, VA
Breaking the Silence
Aneurysm
words | SUSAN DUBUQUE photography | AMANDA TALBOTT PHOTOGRAPHY
This series explores diseases that can be devastating to the individuals and families they affect—yet no one is talking about them. That is, until now. In each edition of OurHealth, we bring these medical issues into the light—and dedicate these stories to the courageous patients and families living with them and the providers and researchers who commit their lives to treating and seeking cures for these enigmatic conditions.
Sue Palmer’s work is a true labor of love. As a music activities specialist for Piedmont Geriatric Hospital in Burkeville, she creates moments of joy and lucidity for her elderly patients. It was at the end of a workday, last March 4th, that Sue became incapacitated by pain. “It felt like someone dropped an anvil on my head,” she recalls. “I sat down thinking it would pass, but in a few minutes I realized something was seriously wrong.” Thanks to prompt action by the security staff, the rescue squad was called and Sue was taken to Farmville Hospital. Here a CT scan confirmed that she had a ruptured aneurysm. She was transferred to Centra Lynchburg General Hospital, where Theofilos Machinis, MD, an endovascular neurosurgeon, performed a coiling procedure and saved Sue’s life. The first clear recollection Sue had after being rushed to the hospital was in the intensive care unit. “After I spent almost two weeks in critical care, the nurses helped me get out of bed and walk to the window. That was the first time I saw the daylight—and I knew what a blessing it was to be alive.” Sue had a very special reason for celebrating life. “My daughter Laney was expecting her first baby and my first grandchild,” says Sue. “I had so much to look forward to.”
At right: Sue with her daughter and grandson, Brycen. Below: Grandson Brycen, inspires Sue to stay healthy.
Sue’s recovery was remarkable. “I am so grateful for the skills of Dr. Machinis and the compassionate care of the entire staff,” says Sue. “I know many aneurysm sufferers don’t even survive long enough to get to the hospital. And those who do are often seriously disabled.” With the help of physical therapy and speech therapy, including cognitive exercises, Sue regained her strength, mobility and functionality quickly and was discharged from the hospital only 15 days following her aneurysm. “I still needed some help though,” says Sue, “so I moved in with my brother to recover at home for a time. At the end of May, I was able to move into a small house right next door to his home.”
“I don’t take anything for granted. Life is far too precious.” — Sue Palmer
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With the support of her family and a lot of personal determination, Sue was able to return to work in June. “Even when I was in the hospital, I kept thinking about going back to work.” Initially, Sue was troubled by fatigue and vision problems. “By the end of the day, I would be pretty exhausted,” admits Sue, “and I had trouble reading.” But in time, both these problems have abated. Music therapy not only helps Sue’s patients at her work, it also aided in her own recovery. “My sister-in-law would take me to a church to play the piano. Even though my eyes were bothering me and I couldn’t read the music, I could play from memory,” says Sue. “I genuinely believe that helped me regain both my mental and physical capacity.” Of course, Sue was concerned about a recurrence of her medical problems and she asked Dr. Machinis what she could do to prevent another aneurysm. “He told me the most important thing was to not smoke. Well, that wasn’t a problem. I told him the only way I would be smoking was if I was on fire,” jokes Sue. “He also told me to manage my blood pressure.” Sue had been advised by her doctor in the past that her blood pressure was ‘borderline’—but not so high that medication was needed. However, with this new risk factor, Sue is now on medication to maintain her blood pressure at a constant level and she has it checked two or three times a week at the hospital where she works.
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Sue has a very positive attitude about her experience this past year. “The good definitely outweighs the bad,” she says. “I don’t take anything for granted. Life is far too precious.” And nothing could be more precious than her new grandson, Brycen, who was born May 12th with Sue supporting her daughter in the delivery room. With renewed health, a beautiful grandchild and music in her heart, Sue says, “I am truly blessed.”
It’s time to learn more about brain aneurysms—the nature of the condition, various causes, risk factors, treatment options and what the future holds.
Understanding Aneurysms A brain aneurysm—also called a cerebral aneurysm or intracranial aneurysm (IA)—is a weak, bulging spot on the wall of an artery that supplies blood to the brain. “Envision a balloon with a thin spot,” describes Theofilos Machinis, MD, endovascular neurosurgeon at Centra Neuroscience Institute. “Over time, blood flowing through the artery can cause the weakened wall to bulge and swell outward. Occasionally, pressure may cause the aneurysm to rupture and release blood into the skull around the brain.” This is referred to as a subarachnoid hemorrhage or more commonly a hemorrhagic stroke. Most brain aneurysms are small—from one-eighth of an inch to less than one inch. Aneurysms larger than one inch are called “giant” aneurysms and can pose a particularly high risk. “Brain aneurysms are most prevalent in adults age 35 to 65,” comments Dr. Machinis, “although they can occur at any age.”
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Aneurysms may be caused by high blood pressure, congenital (present at birth) abnormalities in the artery, infection, trauma or injury to the brain, a tumor or plaque buildup on the artery walls. A number of factors increase your chance of developing a brain aneurysm, including: • Age over 40 • Gender, women are more likely to have an aneurysm than men • Family history of brain aneurysm • Smoking • High blood pressure • Drug use, particularly cocaine and amphetamines • Certain medical conditions like Marfan syndrome, polycystic kidney disease and fibromuscular dysplasia Brain aneurysms are not as rare as you may think. In fact, six million people in the United States have unruptured brain aneurysms—that’s one in 50 people. “Many aneurysms are silent and do not cause symptoms,” says Dr. Machinis. “They are often discovered when a patient has a test to evaluate an unrelated condition such as a head injury.” There are instances, however, when an unruptured aneurysm is pressing on an area of the brain that does cause problems, such as headaches, pain above and behind the eye, blurred vision, numbness and changes in speech. Every year about 30,000 people in this country suffer a brain aneurysm rupture. “This is particularly devastating,” adds Dr. Machinis. “About one-half of people who have a ruptured aneurysm don’t live and one-half of those who do experience significant disability.” The symptoms of a ruptured aneurysm may come on suddenly and include: • Severe headache, often described as the worst headache of your life • Stiff neck • Nausea and vomiting • Sensitivity to light, fainting or loss of consciousness • Blurred or double vision • Pain above or behind the eye www.OurHealthVirginia.com
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• Seizures • Weakness or numbness • Trouble walking or dizziness • Change in mental status or awareness A ruptured aneurysm is a life-threatening condition. If you experience some or all of these symptoms, or you observe them in someone else, don’t wait. Call 9-1-1 immediately. When an aneurysm leaks or ruptures it can result in a number of serious complications. Blood can enter the space around the brain called the subarachnoid space. As the blood clots it can irritate, damage or destroy nearby brain cells. A ruptured aneurysm can also cause a buildup of pressure on the brain, called hydrocephalus. A “shunt” may be placed in the ventricles to drain off the blood and reduce the pressure. A third complication of a ruptured aneurysm is called vasospasm. Here, the blood vessels constrict and narrow, reducing the blood flow to the brain. Certain medications and the use of balloons to open the vessels may be used to treat vasospasm.
How is an Aneurysm Diagnosed and Treated? Aneurysms are diagnosed using a variety of imaging techniques—CT angiogram (computed tomography angiogram), MR angiogram (magnetic resonance angiogram) or diagnostic angiogram, where dye is injected in the vessels through small catheters. Millions of people are walking around with brain aneurysms and don’t even know it. “We suspect that the number of brain aneurysms has not increased,” says Dr. Machinis, “but they are being diagnosed with greater frequency due to the increased use of these imaging studies.” If an unruptured aneurysm is detected, a number of things will determine whether or not it should be treated or if watchful waiting is the best course of action. “We consider the size, 46
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shape and location of the aneurysm and the patient’s age, general health and family history,” says Dr. Machinis. “Then we will weigh the risk of the aneurysm’s rupturing against the risk of treatment. Of course, the patient and family are actively involved in the decision-making process.” Dr. Machinis explains that there are two general types of treatment that are used to treat aneurysms—clipping and coiling. These same procedures are used to treat both ruptured and unruptured aneurysms. Clipping is an effective and well-researched surgical treatment for aneurysm that has been used since the 1930s. The patient is put under general anesthesia and the neurosurgeon makes an incision in the scalp and a small opening in the skull. Working under a microscope, the surgeon approaches the aneurysm in the space between the brain and the skull, not through brain tissue. The neck of the aneurysm is then sealed off with a tiny titanium clip that prevents blood from entering the aneurysm. As a result, the aneurysm cannot grow and future bleeding or rupture is avoided. The skull bone is replaced and held in place with a tiny metal plate and screws and the incision is closed. “Coiling—or endovascular embolization —is a newer procedure that became available in the 1990s,” adds Dr. Machinis. Endovascular means “within the blood vessel”—and that is just how the brain is accessed—through an artery. A neurosurgeon or interventional radiologist performs this procedure by making an incision in the artery—most commonly the femoral artery located in the upper thigh. A catheter (hollow plastic tube) is placed in the artery and carefully guided through the blood system to the brain. The physician uses continual x-ray visualization throughout the process. Once the aneurysm is located and evaluated, tiny platinum coils are placed inside the aneurysm, reducing or blocking the flow of blood. The blood then clots around the coils, essentially sealing off the aneurysm and preventing it from progressing or bleeding. In some instances the opening of the aneurysm may be wide. Here, a balloon or stent (small mesh tube) may be used to assist in the coiling procedure. If the balloon is used, it is deflated 48
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and removed once the coils are in place. If a stent is used, it is permanently placed inside the artery where it serves as scaffolding to hold the coils in place in the neck of the aneurysm. “There are advantages and disadvantages of both coiling and clipping,” says Dr. Machinis. “While coiling is a less invasive procedure, clipping may be more durable. However, recent studies seem to indicate that coiling may offer a better outcome overall. It’s important to consider the whole medical picture when helping a patient to make an informed decision about the best option to treat his or her aneurysm.” “For some patients with unruptured aneurysms—particularly those who are elderly, medically fragile or whose aneurysms are small—a very conservative ‘wait and watch’ approach may be recommended,” says Dr. Machinis. In these cases, the patent is advised to keep his or her blood pressure under excellent control and avoid smoking and heavy alcohol intake to reduce the risk of the aneurysm’s progressing and rupturing. Repeated brain imaging will be used to monitor the situation and determine if more aggressive treatment is warranted. Even after an aneurysm has been successfully treated, followup care is important. “Larger aneurysms have a greater likelihood of recurring,” notes Dr. Machinis. “Following coiling, an angiogram is performed at six months and 18 months, then two years after that just to be sure the repair is stable.” In addition to the physical assault of a brain aneurysm, the emotional impact can be just as devastating. Individuals can be immobilized by the fear of living with an unruptured aneurysm, and patients who have had an aneurysm rupture may experience depression and various neurocognitive symptoms. Family members and caregivers also need support in coping with the lifestyle changes and emotional turmoil that can result from an aneurysm.
What does the future hold? The newest innovation for treating aneurysms is called flow diversion. “The FDA [Food and Drug Administration] has approved one such device—called Pipeline®—with two more presently in clinical trials,” reports Dr. Machinis. A flowdiverting stent is placed inside the artery across the opening of the aneurysm. It “diverts” the blood flow away from the aneurysm and in a short period of time the aneurysm clots off. “Whenever you enter an aneurysm to insert a coil there is a risk of causing bleeding or rupture. Since the flow-diverting stent doesn’t require the surgeon to actually manipulate the aneurysm, this may offer a safer alternative, especially for large or ‘giant’ aneurysms.” Aneurysms are a major health issue in the United States— and pose a serious threat to millions of people. While we can’t control our genetic makeup and any possible predisposition to aneurysms, there are steps we can take to protect ourselves.
“The most important things you can do to reduce your risk,” remarks Dr. Machinis, “are don’t smoke, manage your blood pressure, ask your doctor about being screened if you have two or more family members with a brain aneurysm and know the warning signs and symptoms of aneurysm.” Fortunately, Sue’s colleagues recognized the warning signs and didn’t hesitate to seek help. And with expert intervention and unwavering faith, Sue now can look forward to many years of vibrant health—enjoying her music and watching her grandson grow.
Medical Experts: Theofilos Machinis, MD of the Centra Neuroscience Institute, specializes in neurosurgery and endovascular neurosurgery.
• Theofilos Machinis, MD, Endovascular Neurosurgeon, Centra Neuroscience Institute
Source for Article and Resource for Patients and Families: • Brain Aneurysm Foundation – bafound.org
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The Jamerson Family YMCA recently held their annual Health Fair in collaboration with the Centra Healthy Living Center. This free event was open to the public, and attendees were able to visit with a variety of health minded vendors representing the community. In addition to those from Centra Health, vendors included several local chiropractic centers, Riverside Runners, Lynchburg Road Runners as well as health and nutrition related businesses. Centra lab offered free screenings, and the Centra Mobile Mammography Unit was onsite for appointments and screenings.
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what if we didn’t... words | SUZANNE RAMSEY
Making (a little) sense of a mind-boggling topic May is Healthcare Workers Recognition Month at OurHealth magazine. Each year, we choose a unique angle to highlight the efforts of those who work in the healthcare industry. This year’s theme is, “What if we didn’t have _____ ?” That blank includes not only the obvious, clinical staffers—people with “hands-on” jobs, like physicians, nurses and emergency medical technicians—but also those employees who work more “behind-the-scenes,” people like pharmacists, patient service representatives, medical educators, maintenance staff, housekeepers and others. At OurHealth, we recognize—in May and throughout the calendar year that it takes a team of dedicated, skilled professionals to keep our community healthy, and that each and every member of this team plays an important role in creating healthy outcomes and positive patient experiences. To use a baseball analogy, you’d never say, “We’ll just play without the shortstop.” A team needs its shortstop, its pitcher, its fielders, its catcher, just like a medical facility or hospital needs all of the folks on its roster. Because winning, in baseball and healthcare, is about more than just covering the bases.
To you—all of you—we say, “Thanks.”
Lynchburg Fire and EMS respond to a call on Greenview Drive in Lynchburg.
Brenda Burns is part of the meticulous housekeeping staff at Lovingston Health & Rehabilitation Center.
What if we didn’t have people who are committed to keeping our healthcare facilities in top shape?
A.
One of the goals of our company is that our employees work to delight and surprise patients, residents, guests, and visitors. In fact, the greatest number of compliments on our monthly customer satisfaction surveys focus on cleanliness and attractiveness of our healthcare centers. I once had one of our Administrators, a former housekeeping director, tell me that the reason his team loved their job so much, is because they know patients feel more comfortable in a fresh and clean environment. When entering one of our centers, there is a purposeful attack on the senses: the smell of freshly brewed coffee, food cooking in the kitchen, and the friendly greeting of the receptionist. As you continue on, you also cannot help but notice the shiny, bright, clean floors, the neat and orderly patient rooms, and the telltale smell of “clean.” This hard work is all done by the bright and cheerful faces of a very important part of our team who understands the magnitude of that first impression. These committed, service oriented individuals take great pride in making our healthcare centers have the look and feel of world class. I am very proud of this staff’s contribution to make the total patient experience a “Legendary One!”
Keith Helmer Chief Operating Officer Medical Facilities of America
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What if we didn’t have emergency medical services professionals?
A.
Without emergency medical service professionals, the response to critical, life threatening situations would be delayed. The Lynchburg Fire Department staffs its medic units with highly trained firefighter/paramedics and firefighter/ EMTs who respond to requests for assistance 24 hours per day. These “medics” perform advanced procedures, including drug administration, cardiac 12-lead EKG transmission, and endotracheal intubation. The fire department’s response time is great and transport to local emergency facilities is quick and efficient. All of these factors combine to provide a standard of care for our patients that are second to none.
Steven Ferguson, fire chief The City of Lynchburg
Cassie Thompson, Pharmacy Technician at Gretna Drug, keeps patients informed.
What if we didn’t have pharmacists?
A.
Without pharmacists there could potentially be a great amount of confusion about healthcare. Remember, pharmacists are highly skilled and trained on medications. Generally, they are available to answer questions and speak oneon-one without an appointment. Also, a consultation with a pharmacist is FREE! Not only do pharmacists answer questions about medications, they help inform their patients on insurance issues that can be very confusing. Our purpose is to use our abilities to serve everyone as effectively as possible.
Chapman Brown, III, RPh Owner of Gretna Drug
“Without emergency medical service professionals, the response to critical, life threatening situations would be delayed.” — Steven Ferguson, fire chief The City of Lynchburg
BEST THE EIGHTH ANNUAL
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Vote for your favorite physicians and/or providers in more than 40 medical specialties by visiting
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M a y 1st ~ J u n e 1 s t 2 0 1 5
Winners announced in the December 2015 edition of OurHealth
“It is difficult to comprehend the huge void that would exist if we did not have doctors. ” — Robert Brennan, MD, FACP, FIDSA Doctors provide a key service to patients and the communities they serve by bringing a high degree of skill and expertise to address the care needs of patients and deliver essential health interventions.
What if we didn’t have doctors?
A.
One only has to look to countries with doctor shortages to see the impact having “no doctors” would have in our community. Consequences can be severe. Mortality rates for infants, children, and expectant mothers are just an example of the many patient populations negatively impacted by physician shortages. Doctors provide a key service to patients and the communities they serve by bringing a high degree of skill and expertise to address the care needs of patients and deliver essential health interventions. Engagement with primary care doctors not only provides better health outcomes and patient experiences, but lowers the cost of care. The relationship between a doctor and a patient is unique and special and cannot be duplicated by a facility or piece of diagnostic equipment.
Shawn Crawford Chief Executive Officer Central Virginia Family Physicians
“Key citizens of our community would all too often be on their own as they age in their residences. ” — Ken Burger
Teresa Overby, RN and Daniel Horton, MD examine a patient (center) at Medical Associates of Central Virginia.
What if we didn’t have doctors?
A.
It is difficult to comprehend the huge void that would exist if we did not have doctors. In particular, primary care physicians are essential for coordinating care for patients of all ages within an increasingly complex healthcare system. These are the physicians who spend their careers developing that all-important doctor/patient relationship that defines the “caring physician” and who provide many important preventive health interventions. If we did not have the general internists, the family physicians, and the pediatricians who are the front line of the delivery of medical care, it would be much harder to keep all of us and our community healthy.
Robert Brennan, MD, FACP, FIDSA Medical Associates of Central Virginia
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Crystal Kersey (center), Enrichment Director at Heritage Green, enjoys interacting with residents.
What if we didn’t have elderly care professionals?
A.
I am keenly aware of the great impact such professionals are making in the lives of seniors both at Heritage Green Assisted Living Communities and the community at large. These professionals provide quality care, good nutrition and quality of life improvements through socialization and recreation as well as rehab services to strengthen and encourage independence. In my 23 years of experience helping care for seniors, I’ve seen many uplifted and touched in a positive way by the care professionals working with them; by making it a point to smile, offering encouragement, and brightening their day. I’m reminded of testimonials time and again of seniors who are now thriving after living at Heritage Green, because of the gratifying life experiences that are provided by the senior care professionals whom I’m proud to know.
Heather Pippen Executive Director Heritage Green
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Providers at Runk & Pratt make a point to make all clients feel warm and welcome.
What if we didn’t have elderly care professionals?
A.
The world that our seniors live in on a daily basis would be clouded without the ray of sunshine that our trained care professionals add to their daily routines, not to mention the connectible thread that they add to every element of this stage of our client’s life. We feel our care professionals add an element of inclusion into the life of our clients, which is so important and helps our clients feel warm and welcome. Our trained care professionals are encouraged to give of their whole hearts in the journey we take together. We love and appreciate the efforts they put forth. They are the heartbeat of all we do.
Vickie Pratt Runk Co-Founder of Runk & Pratt Senior Living Communities
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Care providers at The Summit provide an environment for each person to remain engaged in life.
What if we didn’t have elderly care professionals?
A.
If we didn’t have the professionals who provide care each day for and with our elders, these key citizens of our community would all too often be on their own as they age in their residences. They would be isolated and alone, as they faced the myriad issues of aging and increasing frailty without the trained eyes and care of professionals who guide our elders through the maze of resources and who provide opportunities for social interaction with peers. For elders with extensive family support, the professionals provide a level of care that allows family members to remain family, rather than transform into caregivers for parents or grandparents. Today, the professionals who provide eldercare services are aware of the latest in resources, especially medical and technical developments, and can guide our seniors to those services that will support the highest level of independence possible for each individual. When this level of support is available in a community setting such as The Summit, one discovers a team of professionals, each bringing specialized attention to the individual. Working together, these eldercare professionals provide an environment for each person to remain engaged in life.
Ken Burger Executive Director The Summit
There are simply not enough physicians to meet the increasing access needs of an aging population. Physician assistants allow medical practices to provide more cost effective care to the community.
What if we didn’t have physician assistants?
A.
Physician Assistants (PA) are an integral part of our collaborative musculoskeletal healthcare team. They work under the guidance of our physicians. Without PAs, timely access to musculoskeletal care would be negatively impacted. There are simply not enough physicians to meet the increasing access needs of an aging population. PAs are part of a care team including surgeons, physicians and therapists, that provide aroundthe-clock care 365 days a year to our community. They are tethered to our on-call orthopaedic surgeon every day to assist in the operating room, the emergency room and the office. They are actively involved in therapeutic injections with and without ultrasound, pre-surgery physicals and post-operative visits for patients. They allow us to extend our office hours to provide cost effective care (reducing the need for emergency room visits) over a longer work day and they provide sideline coverage for all the high school football teams at no cost to the school or community.
Karen Simonton Chief Administrative Officer Orthopaedic Center of Central Virginia
Nurses comprise the largest sector of the healthcare workforce.
What if we didn’t have nurses?
A.
We would not have a lot of the “care” in healthcare if we didn’t have nurses. Despite the rapidly changing nature of our environment, the one thing that remains constant is the caring and compassion that nurses have for their patients. Nurses comprise the largest sector of the healthcare workforce. Nurses are often referred to as the heart and soul of healthcare. I can’t even try to imagine our world without nurses!
Patti McCue, ScD., RN, MSN, NEA-BC Sr. VP Patient Care Services and Chief Nursing Officer, Centra Health
“...the one thing that remains constant is the caring and compassion that nurses hare for their patients.” — Patti McCue, Senior VP Patient Care Services and Chief Nursing Officer, Centra Health 64
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What year was this? Post the correct answer on our Facebook page by May 19th, 2015.
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on our Facebook page May 22, 2015.
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