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get heart<br />
smart<br />
at our cardiology<br />
center<br />
Why checkups<br />
matter<br />
reduce your<br />
stroke risk<br />
<strong>Health</strong>matters<br />
spring 2011 › WWW.augustahealth.com<br />
auguSta health<br />
accredited<br />
breast center<br />
learn about thiS Special accreditation<br />
on page 10<br />
we’re a<br />
100 top<br />
hospital<br />
See page 28 › ›
A special thank you to all of the members of our Breast Care Accreditation Team.<br />
A<br />
WinningCombination<br />
The Breast <strong>Health</strong> Program at <strong>Augusta</strong> <strong>Health</strong> is the first in the region to receive full<br />
accreditation from the National Accreditation Program for Breast Centers (NAPBC)*.<br />
Our Breast <strong>Health</strong> Program team — pathology, radiology, surgery, medical oncology and<br />
radiation oncology — works together to review cases and create a customized care plan<br />
for each patient. This accreditation acknowledges our commitment to excellence and<br />
reinforces our claim that you don’t have to travel for the best breast health care. The quality,<br />
compassion and teamwork recognized by the NAPBC are available right here.<br />
* This accreditation is awarded to centers who take a<br />
multidisciplinary, team-oriented approach to breast cancer care,<br />
and is earned after a rigorous evaluation, review of performance<br />
and compliance with 27 evidence-based standards of care.<br />
Staunton 540-332-4000<br />
Waynesboro 540-932-4000<br />
Toll Free 1-800-932-0262<br />
www.augustahealth.com
in this issue . . .<br />
4 augusta HealtH: we‘Re HeRe FOR YOu<br />
A letter from Mary n. Mannix, FACHE<br />
5 PReventing cOlOn canceR<br />
The importance of colonoscopies<br />
6 ReDucing stROke Risk witH a liFesaving PROceDuRe<br />
7 Pain-FRee living<br />
Spine surgery can let you do almost anything again<br />
8 HeaRt tO HeaRt<br />
<strong>Augusta</strong> <strong>Health</strong>‘s cardiology center—one man‘s story<br />
10 tOP HOnORs<br />
Breast Center awarded with accreditation<br />
14 FigHting tHe gOOD FigHt<br />
How the hospital is helping defeat breast cancer<br />
16 PReventive MeasuRes<br />
Why vaccines and screenings are important<br />
17 blOOD DOnatiOn PRiMeR<br />
18 ask tHe PHYsician<br />
<strong>Augusta</strong> <strong>Health</strong> physicians answer your questions<br />
21 MODeRn tecHnOlOgY<br />
Equipment helps with gastroenterologic problems<br />
22 HaPPenings at augusta HealtH<br />
24 baRRett’s esOPHagus<br />
learn more about this serious gErD complication<br />
26 new HealtHcaRe PROviDeRs<br />
27 new FacilitY OFFeRs QualitY PRiMaRY caRe<br />
28 augusta HealtH naMeD tOP HOsPital anD HOnOReD witH<br />
OtHeR awaRDs<br />
6<br />
8<br />
21<br />
22<br />
www.augustahealth.com 3
augusta <strong>Health</strong>:<br />
We’re here for you<br />
dear friendS,<br />
goodbye Old Man Winter, hello warmer weather! Burgers are on the grill.<br />
Birds are chirping. Flowers are blooming. But, just because it’s warm out<br />
doesn’t mean you should let your healthcare fall by the wayside.<br />
We’re happy to share that the <strong>Augusta</strong> <strong>Health</strong> Cancer Center has<br />
become the fi rst hospital in the region to receive full accreditation from<br />
the national Accreditation Program for Breast Centers (nAPBC). Accreditation<br />
is granted only to those centers that undergo a rigorous evaluation<br />
and review of performance and compliance with 27 evidence-based<br />
standards of care. The closest accredited programs are in Winchester and<br />
richmond. read more on page 10.<br />
And more kudos to us! We were recently recognized as one of the<br />
nation’s Top 100 Hospitals® by Thomson reuters, a leading provider of<br />
information and solutions to improve the cost and quality of healthcare.<br />
The 100 hospitals on the list demonstrate quality patient outcomes while<br />
improving effi ciency.<br />
taking care of yourself<br />
Did you know that 60 percent of colorectal cancer deaths could be<br />
prevented if everyone age 50 and older were screened regularly? get<br />
more colon cancer screening information on the next page.<br />
And don’t put your health by the wayside this summer—schedule a<br />
checkup. See page 16 to learn why it’s so important to get one.<br />
At <strong>Augusta</strong> <strong>Health</strong>, we’re here for you, even when it’s hot and<br />
sticky outside!<br />
4 <strong>Health</strong>Matters Spring 2011<br />
Best regards,<br />
MArY n. MAnnIX, FACHE<br />
PrESIDEnT AnD CHIEF EXECUTIvE OFFICEr<br />
AUgUSTA HEAlTH<br />
On tHe cOveR: MeMbeRs OF tHe augusta HealtH bReast caRe accReDitatiOn teaM<br />
t H e M a g a z i n e O F a u g u s ta H e a lt H<br />
Serving Staunton, Waynesboro and <strong>Augusta</strong> counties<br />
and surrounding communities<br />
a u g u s t a H e a lt H b O a R D O F D i R e c t O R s<br />
E. Stuart Crow, Chairman<br />
Charles “Mick” Andersen, M.D.<br />
John B. Davis<br />
William Faulkenberry, M.D.<br />
robert g. Knowles<br />
laurel landes<br />
george lindbeck, M.D.<br />
Mary n. Mannix, FACHE<br />
Ann D. McPherson<br />
Beverly S. “Cheri” Moran<br />
William l. Pfost<br />
Joseph ranzini, M.D.<br />
Arona E. richard<br />
C. randy robinson, M.D.<br />
victor M. Santos<br />
a u g u s t a H e a lt H F O u n D a t i O n b O a R D<br />
robert g. Knowles, Chairman<br />
Debra S. Callison<br />
Edward Clymore<br />
David E. Cohron<br />
E. Stuart Crow<br />
ronald W. Denney<br />
Kurt gottschalk<br />
laurel landes<br />
Mary n. Mannix, FACHE<br />
William l. Pfost<br />
Arona E. richard<br />
C. randy robinson, M.D.<br />
Jeanne K. russell<br />
a u g u s t a H e a lt H H O s P i t a l s t a F F<br />
President and ceO Mary n. Mannix, FACHE<br />
chief Medical Officer Fred Castello, M.D.<br />
chief Financial Officer John Heider<br />
chief information Officer Bruce Hall<br />
executive Director aMg l. Courtenay Beebe, M.D.<br />
v.P. support services David E. Deering<br />
v.P. Planning and Development Kathleen Heatwole<br />
v.P. Medical administration Jan Mangun<br />
v.P. chief nursing Officer lisa Cline<br />
v.P. Professional services Karen Clark<br />
v.P. Human Resources Sue Krzastek<br />
v.P. aMg administration Ann rubino<br />
cOMMunicatiOns<br />
For more information about services at <strong>Augusta</strong> <strong>Health</strong>,<br />
please contact lisa Schwenk, Director of<br />
Communications and Public relations, at<br />
lschwenk@augustahealth.com or (540) 245-7329.<br />
<strong>Health</strong> Matters is published three times a year by<br />
<strong>Augusta</strong> <strong>Health</strong>, 78 Medical Center Drive,<br />
Fishersville, vA 22939. All rights reserved.<br />
The information contained herein is not a substitute for<br />
professional medical care or advice. If you have medical<br />
concerns, seek the guidance of a healthcare professional.<br />
<strong>Health</strong> Matters is aimed at connecting the community<br />
with healthcare experts within <strong>Augusta</strong> <strong>Health</strong> to learn more<br />
about issues that may be aff ecting your health.<br />
If you are not receiving <strong>Health</strong> Matters,<br />
you can view it online or request to be added to the<br />
mailing list at www.augustahealth.com.<br />
eDitOR/ DiRectOR OF MaRketing : vicki Kirby<br />
webMasteR: Brian Mcgill<br />
PROFessiOnal PHOtOgRaPHY bY:<br />
Kevin Blackburn Photography, Waynesboro, vA
Preventing<br />
colon cancer<br />
The importance of colonoscopies<br />
Sixty percent of colorectal cancer deathS could be<br />
prevented if everyone age 50 and older were Screened<br />
regularly. That’s a startling statistic from the Centers for<br />
Disease Control and Prevention and a big reason why physicians<br />
diligently educate their patients about tests such as colonoscopy.<br />
“Colorectal cancer screenings are so<br />
important because colorectal cancer is a<br />
common diagnosis,” says Justina Ju, M.D., a<br />
gastroenterologist with <strong>Augusta</strong> <strong>Health</strong>. “But<br />
a colonoscopy can catch and remove polyps<br />
before they turn cancerous, or can find cancer<br />
Justina Ju, M.D. early, when it’s still treatable.”<br />
That brings up another important statistic: Over the past<br />
20 years, the death rate from colorectal cancer has been dropping<br />
in both men and women, according to the American Cancer<br />
Society. Experts think screenings are contributing to this decline.<br />
Currently, more than 140,000 Americans are diagnosed with<br />
the disease each year, and more than 50,000 die from it.<br />
Heading off cancer<br />
Colonoscopies are the gold standard for colorectal cancer<br />
screening. Using a special scope outfitted with a tiny camera, a<br />
physician looks for polyps, which are abnormal growths that form<br />
in the colon and can potentially develop into cancer. “Factors<br />
such as genetics and aging can increase your likelihood of developing<br />
these growths,” Dr. Ju says. If polyps or other abnormal<br />
growths are found, they can be removed or biopsied during the<br />
same procedure.<br />
Colonoscopies are recommended for everyone age 50 and<br />
older. If nothing is found at your first screening and you’re not in<br />
the high-risk group for colorectal cancer, you can wait 10 years<br />
for your next screening, Dr. Ju says. (High-risk individuals include<br />
those with a personal or family history of the disease; those<br />
with certain inherited conditions, such as familial adenomatous<br />
polyposis; and those with inflammatory bowel disease.) Those<br />
who are considered high risk will likely need to be screened at a<br />
younger age and more often.<br />
While physicians strongly encourage colonoscopies, other<br />
colorectal cancer<br />
risk factors<br />
You may have an increased chance of developing<br />
colorectal cancer if you:<br />
» are over age 50<br />
» have had certain types of polyps<br />
» have a close family member who was diagnosed with<br />
colon cancer before age 60<br />
» have had colorectal cancer that was completely<br />
removed<br />
» have long-standing chronic ulcerative colitis<br />
or Crohn’s colitis<br />
» are physically inactive<br />
» eat a high-fat, high-calorie diet<br />
» are overweight<br />
» smoke or drink alcohol heavily<br />
» are Jewish and of Eastern European descent<br />
(Ashkenazi Jewish)<br />
make an appointment for your<br />
colonoscopy today!<br />
to schedule a screening colonoscopy, contact<br />
the endoscopy center at augusta health.<br />
call (540) 332-5526. hours are weekdays from<br />
6:30 a.m.–5 p.m.<br />
options do exist, Dr. Ju says. Fecal occult blood tests (FOBTs) look<br />
for blood in stool—a sign of polyps or cancer—and are repeated<br />
every year. However, FOBTs don’t always catch cancer because a<br />
growth may not be bleeding at that time. Flexible sigmoidoscopy<br />
lets physicians view the rectum and parts of the colon with a<br />
scope. This procedure, which is performed every five years, takes<br />
less time than a colonoscopy but can’t display as much of the<br />
colon. A disadvantage to both of these tests is that if anything is<br />
found, you’ll still need a colonoscopy for further evaluation.<br />
www.augustahealth.com 5
Reducing stroke risk<br />
WITH A lIFESAvIng PrOCEDUrE<br />
StrokeS are potentially devaStating. For the more than<br />
700,000 Americans who suff er them each year, they can cause<br />
paralysis, speech and emotional problems —even death.<br />
“One-third of strokes are caused by a buildup of plaque<br />
in the carotid arteries,” says Jacek Paszkowiak, M.D., a vascular<br />
surgeon with <strong>Augusta</strong> <strong>Health</strong>. For some, this condition, called<br />
cartoid artery disease, can be managed with cholesterol<br />
medications and an aspirin regimen to reduce the risk of clotting.<br />
Others will benefi t from a surgical intervention called<br />
carotid endarterectomy.<br />
While it’s not new, this procedure can literally be a lifesaver.<br />
Performed in <strong>Augusta</strong> Medical Center’s operating room,<br />
it can cut stroke risk by up to half for some patients.<br />
Reducing stroke risk<br />
Plaque is made of cholesterol, fat and other substances. When<br />
it builds up in the carotid arteries, which supply oxygen-rich<br />
blood to the brain, it causes a narrowing of the arteries or a<br />
6 <strong>Health</strong>Matters Spring 2011<br />
blockage that can cut off blood fl ow to the brain and lead to<br />
a stroke. A stroke may also occur when plaque breaks free and<br />
blocks one of the brain’s smaller arteries.<br />
“Carotid endarterectomy is designed to prevent these two<br />
things from occurring,” says Charles goff , M.D., a vascular surgeon<br />
with <strong>Augusta</strong> <strong>Health</strong>. In this procedure, the surgeon makes a small<br />
incision in the neck, exposing the artery, then makes a cut in the<br />
artery itself. Special tools remove plaque from the artery walls;<br />
then the artery and incision are closed. The procedure takes oneand-a-half<br />
to two hours, Dr. Paszkowiak says. It’s performed under<br />
general anesthesia and requires an overnight stay in the intensive<br />
care unit for monitoring. Patients are advised to ease back into<br />
activities for two weeks following the procedure.<br />
like any surgical procedure, risks are involved, including<br />
bleeding, nerve injury, heart attack or stroke during the procedure<br />
and a recurrence of narrowing in the artery. The likelihood of these<br />
complications is low, both physicians note. For example, the odds<br />
of an artery narrowing again are less than 1 percent. “The majority<br />
of people who experience this are smokers,” smokers,” Dr. goff says. says.<br />
is it right for you?<br />
Whether you’re a candidate for carotid endarterectomy<br />
depends on whether you have symptoms and how narrow<br />
your arteries are. Possible candidates include those<br />
who have certain symptoms (for example, those who<br />
experience “mini-strokes,” or transient ischemic attacks)<br />
and arteries that are more than 50 percent blocked,<br />
and those who have no symptoms and arteries that<br />
are more than 80 percent blocked, Dr. Paszkowiak says.<br />
The procedure has proven to be the most benefi cial for<br />
these patients.<br />
For patients with no symptoms, their stroke risk can<br />
be reduced to 5 percent from 11 percent over fi ve years,<br />
Dr. Paszkowiak says, and those with symptoms may see<br />
their risk reduced to 10 percent from 30 percent.<br />
Jacek PaszkOwiak, M.D. (leFt), anD cHaRles gOFF, M.D.,<br />
Review a Patient‘s cHaRt.
Pain-free<br />
living<br />
kelvin PRuett is<br />
back On DutY witH<br />
His canine cOwORkeR.<br />
Spine surgery can let you do<br />
almost anything again<br />
in hiS 25 yearS with the franklin county Sheriff’S depart-<br />
ment, k-9 officer kelvin pruett, 47, of rocky mount, had<br />
never taken a Sick day—until July 2009. It was around that<br />
time when pain that had plagued him for almost a decade<br />
finally got the best of him. While he was hiking up a steep hill<br />
during a call, his left leg went numb and he fell.<br />
Pruett had been dealing with nerve pain in that leg,<br />
thanks to a tear in a disk in the lower part of his back, or lumbar<br />
region of his spine, which has nerves that branch off to the<br />
legs. Pruett chalks up his injury to lifelong wear and tear.<br />
Over the years, Pruett had been referred to neurosurgeons<br />
and pain management experts, but to him, their treatments<br />
were merely temporary measures. He was only 45 years old<br />
when his leg grew too painful for him to work and medication<br />
no longer helped. He figured he had a whole lot of living left to<br />
do. That’s when he began looking into surgery. “At that point, I<br />
was ready to be operated on, I was in that much pain,” he says.<br />
An Internet search led him to Matthew<br />
Pollard, M.D., a spine surgeon at <strong>Augusta</strong><br />
<strong>Health</strong>. In the end, Pruett would be the first<br />
patient at the hospital to undergo one of<br />
the newest spine surgery procedures.<br />
MattHew<br />
POllaRD, M.D.<br />
On the road to recovery<br />
Pruett’s surgery, to remove much of the damaged disk and<br />
replace it with a bone graft, was scheduled for november 2009.<br />
His procedure used nuvasive’s® eXtreme lateral Interbody<br />
Fusion, or XlIF®. During the XlIF procedure, the spine, which<br />
is traditionally accessed through the front or back of the body,<br />
is instead accessed through a 4-inch incision between the ribs<br />
and hips, also called a direct lateral approach. This minimally<br />
invasive technique offers benefits to many patients.<br />
Compared to going through the front or back to<br />
access the spine, which requires up to a foot-long incision, the<br />
direct lateral approach could be considered the path of least<br />
resistance. “There’s less muscular dissection, you’re not pulling<br />
on nerves and not as much scar tissue is generated,” Dr. Pollard<br />
says. Because of this, patients experience a quicker recovery,<br />
with less blood loss and pain, and many can leave the hospital<br />
in one day, compared to four or five nights in the hospital with<br />
other approaches. Many patients can resume normal activities<br />
in a month, versus three months or more with conventional<br />
surgical methods, he says. Other conditions that might benefit<br />
from the procedure include spondylolisthesis, spinal stenosis<br />
and scoliosis.<br />
Pruett is living proof of a successful recovery. He was<br />
walking again right after the anesthesia wore off from the<br />
operation, and only stayed in the hospital overnight. “The<br />
pain is gone,” he says, estimating that he’s about 80 percent<br />
improved. He returned to work on light duty in January 2010,<br />
and returned to full duty that May. He’s also resumed walking<br />
three to five miles a day. “I can do almost anything I want; I just<br />
take it easy,” he says.<br />
eager to feel better?<br />
Schedule an appointment with <strong>Augusta</strong> <strong>Health</strong><br />
Spine Surgery Clinic at (540) 245-7400 in Staunton<br />
and (540) 221-7400 in Waynesboro.<br />
www.augustahealth.com 7
Heart to heart<br />
<strong>Augusta</strong> <strong>Health</strong>’s cardiology center—one man’s story<br />
keith cooper, of StuartS draft, woke up on the morning<br />
of nov. 2 with pain in both hiS armS. He chalked it up to<br />
overusing his arms the day before while moving into the house<br />
he and his wife had just built. But the pain only worsened, and<br />
that’s when Cooper’s wife called 911.<br />
Turns out what he was beginning to experience was a<br />
“widow-maker heart attack”; it’s a usually fatal, massive heart<br />
attack stemming from a blockage in one of the heart’s main<br />
arteries. “I used to have borderline high cholesterol and high<br />
blood pressure, but I wasn’t having any heart trouble and didn’t<br />
have problems in my family,” 62-year-old Cooper says.<br />
Cooper, a retired federal government employee, is proof<br />
that heart attacks come in all types of packages. He never experienced<br />
any chest pain and showed no other signs of a heart<br />
attack, so emergency responders were unsure if he was having<br />
one at fi rst. But he went into cardiac arrest and was resuscitated<br />
in the ambulance when they were a few miles from the hospital.<br />
Waiting for him upon his arrival at <strong>Augusta</strong> <strong>Health</strong> was<br />
rajeev Pillai, M.D., an interventional cardiologist, who took<br />
Cooper straight into the hospital’s cardiac catheterization lab.<br />
In less than 20 minutes, Cooper says, Dr. Pillai was inserting<br />
a wire mesh device, called a stent, to prop open his clogged<br />
artery. His heart muscle suff ered little damage, if any.<br />
keitH cOOPeR exeRcises<br />
tO HelP keeP His HeaRt<br />
in sHaPe.<br />
kellY ManOR, P.a.-c,<br />
clinical cOORDinatOR<br />
OF augusta HealtH’s<br />
caRDiac catHeteRizatiOn<br />
lab, Meets witH<br />
MaRk MasOnHeiMeR,<br />
b.s.n., aDMinistRative<br />
DiRectOR OF<br />
caRDiOvasculaR<br />
seRvices.<br />
8 <strong>Health</strong>Matters Spring 2011<br />
Heart disease 101<br />
For most people who suff er a heart attack, the main culprit<br />
is heart disease, which occurs when arteries and small blood<br />
vessels that supply blood to the heart narrow—usually<br />
because of a buildup on artery walls of fatty substances such<br />
as cholesterol. Warning signs that heart disease could be<br />
developing include chest pain (angina), shortness of breath<br />
and limb pain and discomfort.<br />
“There’s no one pill to help manage heart disease,” says<br />
John Yang, M.D., a cardiologist at <strong>Augusta</strong> <strong>Health</strong>. “You need<br />
to modify your risk factors,” he notes. genetics play a part in<br />
the development of the disease, but so do bad habits.<br />
While you can’t change your heart disease risk factors<br />
such as family history or age, you can control your:<br />
• blood pressure • sedentary lifestyle<br />
• cholesterol • smoking<br />
• diabetes • stress levels<br />
• diet • weight<br />
caring for your heart<br />
Cooper has plans. In addition to enjoying retirement, he<br />
wants to join the hospital’s fi tness center to pick up where his<br />
cardiac rehabilitation left off . “I couldn’t have asked for better<br />
care,” he says of his time at <strong>Augusta</strong> <strong>Health</strong>. He credits the<br />
quick treatment time with helping to save his life.
Image © istockphoto.com/Kati molin<br />
“One of our advantages is that we’re a smaller hospital,<br />
so we can be more responsive,” says Kelly Manor, P.A.-C,<br />
Clinical Coordinator of <strong>Augusta</strong> <strong>Health</strong>’s cardiac catheterization<br />
lab. She notes that the hospital’s heart attack treatment<br />
times are faster than the national standard. “We’re proud of<br />
what we’ve done here,” she says.<br />
On any given day, you can see this pride in <strong>Augusta</strong><br />
<strong>Health</strong>’s cardiology department, as its medical team is hard at<br />
work for its patients. To meet the community’s needs, “We<br />
off er a variety of services,” says Mark Masonheimer, B.S.n.,<br />
Administrative Director of cardiovascular services.<br />
You may see patients getting noninvasive services such<br />
as stress tests rooting out heart problems, monitors looking<br />
for irregular heartbeats and ultrasounds detecting blockages<br />
in the body. Others may be undergoing more invasive<br />
procedures such as cardiac catheterization for diagnostic and<br />
emergency treatment purposes (including a newer technique<br />
called radial access, which allows for quicker recovery time<br />
for patients), angioplasty, stenting and implantation of<br />
pacemakers. Patients who meet certain criteria, such as those<br />
who’ve had a heart attack, will also be off ered cardiac rehab.<br />
“There’s a real feeling of security among patients,” says<br />
Debbie Caldwell, rnCCT, AnCC-BC, Clinical Coordinator of<br />
cardiac rehab in the monitored outpatient exercise program.<br />
But medical services and procedures aside, the staff also<br />
plays an important role in the level of quality care off ered.<br />
“We have a very dedicated, compassionate team here at<br />
<strong>Augusta</strong> <strong>Health</strong>,” Masonheimer says.<br />
And they literally take your health to heart.<br />
get your<br />
physician’s ok<br />
Your healthcare provider will likely support your fi tness<br />
eff orts and may off er specifi c guidelines based on your<br />
health. Check with him or her to discuss whether any<br />
of the following apply to you:<br />
» chest pain or pain in the neck or arm<br />
» shortness of breath<br />
» a diagnosed heart condition or you take heart or<br />
blood pressure medication<br />
» joint or bone problems<br />
» dizziness<br />
» an inactive lifestyle<br />
tips for getting active<br />
You can fi nd opportunities for physical activity everywhere!<br />
Try these tips:<br />
» Organize a family softball game.<br />
» Walk briskly around the mall—and do a little<br />
window-shopping!<br />
» Take the stairs instead of the elevator.<br />
» learn a new dance.<br />
» Take the dog for a walk.<br />
» Park farther away from the store or<br />
your offi ce building.<br />
» Wash the car, garden, vacuum or do any other<br />
chore that gets the heart pumping.<br />
» Train for a charity event, such as a walk-run race.<br />
www.augustahealth.com 9
top honors<br />
Breast Center awarded<br />
with accreditation for its<br />
quality breast care program<br />
the word iS out: Some of the moSt comprehenSive, quality<br />
breaSt care available can be found right here, in your<br />
own backyard.<br />
While patients and staff at the <strong>Augusta</strong> <strong>Health</strong> Cancer<br />
Center have always known that something was special about<br />
the care provided here, this sentiment was recently validated<br />
by a full accreditation from the national Accreditation<br />
Program for Breast Centers (nAPBC).<br />
Of course, the honor won’t be kept under wraps. “We<br />
don’t want our care to be a secret,” says Meg Shrader, r.n.,<br />
B.S.n., the hospital’s breast health navigator. “Our patient<br />
outcomes exceed national benchmarks.”<br />
Following a rigorous review process, <strong>Augusta</strong> <strong>Health</strong> was<br />
officially awarded the nAPBC certification on Jan. 21 and is<br />
the only hospital in the region to hold it. “This was an organizational<br />
effort,” Shrader says. “Everyone here at the hospital<br />
wanted it. We have a whole team that’s passionate about<br />
breast care.”<br />
10 <strong>Health</strong>Matters Spring 2011<br />
the best in breast care<br />
Prior to being certified, <strong>Augusta</strong> <strong>Health</strong> submitted an application<br />
seeking a review by an nAPBC evaluator. That application,<br />
which can take up to 30 days for approval, got the green<br />
light within 48 hours, Shrader says. From there, an all-day,<br />
on-site review was conducted in December and an extensive<br />
list of cases—minus patient names—was provided to the<br />
evaluator, who chose specific ones to analyze.<br />
“They have their set criteria,” says Julie Plumbley, M.D., a<br />
pathologist at <strong>Augusta</strong> <strong>Health</strong>. “They want to see if we’re<br />
performing as well as or better than large institutions. People<br />
assume they have to go to a university center to get quality<br />
care, but the surveyor was able to ascertain that we can<br />
give as good care as anybody. And we have the advantage<br />
that our staff sees and talks to each other every day. It’s an<br />
intimate group of caregivers focused on patients.”<br />
Dr. Plumbley says the nAPBC evaluator looked at the<br />
entire program offered at <strong>Augusta</strong> <strong>Health</strong> during his visit,<br />
from mammography and biopsy reports, to how well the<br />
surgeon discussed treatment options with the patient, based<br />
on patient charts. He sat in on a breast committee meeting,<br />
where physicians from all disciplines meet bimonthly to<br />
discuss cases, and learned about each person’s role.<br />
Julie PluMbleY, M.D., exaMines a sPeciMen unDeR a MicROscOPe.
Some areas that impressed the evaluator most were the<br />
highly detailed pathology and radiology reports and strong<br />
support services, which include a licensed social worker,<br />
physical therapy and occupational therapy. These services<br />
all can help handle issues that arise from treatment, such as<br />
lymphedema (swelling in the arms or legs). The evaluator<br />
also praised the excellent teamwork by all players involved<br />
in cancer care, from radiologists and surgeons to nurses and<br />
mammography technicians. He was also struck by how well<br />
<strong>Augusta</strong> surgeons presented treatment options to patients<br />
and the effectiveness of the breast health navigator.<br />
Earning the accreditation didn’t surprise most at <strong>Augusta</strong><br />
<strong>Health</strong>, which has years of exceptional cancer care under its<br />
belt. “We wouldn’t have been certified if we didn’t already<br />
have a comprehensive cancer program in place,” says Joseph<br />
ranzini, M.D., an <strong>Augusta</strong> <strong>Health</strong> general surgeon. “You can’t<br />
force this. You have an evaluator here, looking<br />
under every rock and in every closet.”<br />
williaM tHOMPsOn,<br />
M.D., Facs<br />
tHe augusta HealtH bReast caRe accReDitatiOn teaM<br />
More patient resources<br />
According to William Thompson, M.D.,<br />
FACS, an <strong>Augusta</strong> <strong>Health</strong> general surgeon<br />
who helped head accreditation efforts,<br />
those puzzle pieces already in place<br />
❝ we wouldn’t have been certified if we<br />
didn’t already have a comprehensive<br />
cancer program in place. You can’t force<br />
this. You have an evaluator here, looking<br />
under every rock and in every closet. ❞<br />
—JOsePH Ranzini, M.D.<br />
before the accreditation process began included using a<br />
multidisciplinary cancer care approach and having radiation<br />
therapy, medical oncology and radiology—including digital<br />
mammography and breast MrI—all under one roof. The only<br />
missing piece, he says, was someone to fill the role of breast<br />
health navigator, a position that would entail helping breast<br />
cancer patients navigate the increasingly complex world of<br />
cancer treatments. Enter Shrader, who joined <strong>Augusta</strong> <strong>Health</strong><br />
in 2009.<br />
A translator of sorts, Shrader is the liaison for patients<br />
and physicians. She accompanies patients to appointments,<br />
takes notes for them during these physician visits, explains<br />
complex medical terms in a patient-friendly way, discusses<br />
pros and cons of different treatments, and relays patients’<br />
feedback and concerns to their physicians.<br />
The breast care program will be re-evaluated in 2014,<br />
and <strong>Augusta</strong> <strong>Health</strong> will work hard to ensure it keeps this<br />
honor, including keeping up to date on best practices in<br />
breast care and continuing medical education for the staff,<br />
Dr. ranzini says.<br />
“This certification doesn’t change what we’re doing, but<br />
it does give us an impetus to remain on the leading edge of<br />
breast-cancer care,” Dr. Thompson says.<br />
the breast-care team<br />
You’ve probably heard the old saying, “It takes a village to<br />
raise a child.” Well, here at <strong>Augusta</strong> <strong>Health</strong>, it takes a skilled<br />
team of experts from across all disciplines to provide women<br />
the best in breast care—the multidisciplinary approach that<br />
impressed the nAPBC evaluator. Some work one-on-one with<br />
patients, while others are more behind-the-scenes players.<br />
continued on page 12<br />
www.augustahealth.com 11
continued from page 11<br />
All work together to ensure the best patient outcomes. Your<br />
team at <strong>Augusta</strong> <strong>Health</strong> includes:<br />
• skilled surgeons. “We don’t dabble in breast surgery here,”<br />
says Dr. ranzini, who estimates about half the cases he and<br />
his partners handle are breast surgeries. They work not only<br />
with patients with cancers, but follow those with breast disease,<br />
cysts and benign growths as well. For women who have<br />
abnormal mammograms or biopsies, follow-up appointments<br />
are made quickly so they don’t have to wait. For a woman<br />
diagnosed with breast cancer, the surgeon is often the first<br />
person she has contact with. Together, they’ll discuss surgical<br />
treatment options such as lumpectomy and mastectomy, and<br />
the pros and cons of each. When it comes to treatment, “there<br />
are no black-and-white decisions,” Dr. Thompson says. “There<br />
are a lot of gray areas.” Women who face a high genetic risk of<br />
breast cancer will also be counseled about their options.<br />
• Outstanding oncologists. Two types work at <strong>Augusta</strong><br />
<strong>Health</strong>: medical oncologists and radiation oncologists, both<br />
board certified. Medical oncologists oversee the care for a<br />
variety of breast cases, from those taking preventive<br />
measures to women whose breast cancer has spread. radiation<br />
oncologists treat patients who benefit from radiation<br />
therapy. “There’s more than one way to treat cancer,” says<br />
12 <strong>Health</strong>Matters Spring 2011<br />
❝<br />
we offer a comprehensive program.<br />
we all work well together—we’re like<br />
a big family.❞<br />
—MaYa gHaeMMagHaMi, M.D.<br />
Maya ghaemmaghami, M.D., a medical oncologist at <strong>Augusta</strong><br />
<strong>Health</strong>. “And we stay up to date on the latest research and<br />
participate in clinical trials.” Dr. ghaemmaghami discusses<br />
treatments with patients and can help them make a decision.<br />
• Remarkable radiologists. “Breast imaging is an important<br />
part of diagnosing breast cancer,” says Patricia Buchanan, M.D.,<br />
a radiologist and director of <strong>Augusta</strong> <strong>Health</strong>’s Women’s<br />
Imaging Center. “It’s skill and practice when you’re searching<br />
for things 1 centimeter or less in size.” Dr. Buchanan says that<br />
60 percent of the cancers that the hospital’s breast-cancer<br />
screening picks up are either in situ (noninvasive) or are less<br />
than 1 centimeter in size, and are considered minimal cancers.<br />
That means <strong>Augusta</strong> <strong>Health</strong> radiologists are adept at finding<br />
cancer early. And, 84.6 percent of the cancers that are found<br />
on screenings are stage 0 to stage 1 cancers, which are<br />
Meg sHRaDeR, R.n., b.s.n.,<br />
anD williaM tHOMPsOn, M.D.,<br />
Facs, Review a cHaRt.
cancers that haven’t spread to the lymph nodes, exceeding<br />
national standards. Dr. Buchanan credits the technicians<br />
doing the testing with <strong>Augusta</strong> <strong>Health</strong>’s success at finding<br />
cancers early. “Our techs are superior at getting patients<br />
through the screenings, comforting them and knowing just<br />
what to do and say,” she says.<br />
• Proficient pathologists. These people behind the microscopes<br />
never lose sight of the fact that a person is on the<br />
other side of every specimen. “We understand that the period<br />
between having a biopsy and getting the results is filled with<br />
anxiety,” Dr. Plumbley says. “We try to get the answer out as<br />
quickly as possible without compromising quality.” What they<br />
find will ultimately drive treatment decisions. Pathologists<br />
determine whether a growth is noncancerous, cancerous or<br />
undetermined; specific characteristics of a cancerous tumor;<br />
and if a cancer is invasive or noninvasive. They also have the<br />
privilege of making someone’s day. “It’s a Friday afternoon<br />
and a patient gets good news that her growth is benign.<br />
There’s no better gift to give someone,” Dr. Plumbley says.<br />
• nurturing nurses. All <strong>Augusta</strong> <strong>Health</strong> Cancer Center nurses<br />
are certified oncology nurses, meaning they’re specially<br />
trained to care for cancer patients. “Oncology nurses are<br />
some of the most compassionate people, with a genuine<br />
desire to help their patients,” Dr. ghaemmaghami says.<br />
• specialized support staff. <strong>Augusta</strong> <strong>Health</strong> Cancer Center’s<br />
support service staff includes a social worker; a nutritionist;<br />
and massage, physical and occupational therapists dedicated<br />
to handling the needs of cancer patients.<br />
When it comes to breast care, <strong>Augusta</strong> <strong>Health</strong> leaves no<br />
stone unturned. “We offer a comprehensive program,”<br />
Dr. ghaemmaghami says. “We all work well together—we’re<br />
like a big family.”<br />
we treat more than<br />
breast cancer<br />
<strong>Augusta</strong> <strong>Health</strong> can also provide you with the most<br />
comprehensive care for breast pain, nipple discharge,<br />
fibroadenomas, atypical ductal hyperplasia and<br />
papillomas, either in the hospital or as an outpatient.<br />
To get more information about our breast care services,<br />
call the Cancer Center at (540) 332-5960 in Staunton or<br />
(540) 932-5960 in Waynesboro.<br />
Deana tiPleR, Rt-RM-bD, gives<br />
a Patient a MaMMOgRaM.<br />
comprehensive breast<br />
services available at<br />
augusta health<br />
breast mri<br />
cancer-certified dietitian<br />
certified bra and prosthetic fitter for bras, camisoles<br />
and lymphedema garments<br />
chemotherapy<br />
dedicated social worker<br />
digital mammography (women’s imaging and<br />
Staunton outpatient locations)<br />
endocrine therapy<br />
genetic counseling<br />
lumpectomy and mastectomy<br />
lymphedema therapy<br />
mri-guided breast biopsy<br />
massage therapy<br />
medi-port placement<br />
physical therapy<br />
sentinel lymph node biopsy<br />
stereotactic breast biopsy<br />
support groups for patients and caregivers<br />
tai chi for cancer survivors<br />
ultrasound-guided breast biopsy<br />
www.augustahealth.com 13
Fighting the<br />
good fight<br />
How <strong>Augusta</strong> <strong>Health</strong> is helping<br />
defeat breast cancer<br />
forty-four-year-old Sandy baZan Sat acroSS from<br />
auguSta health Surgeon william thompSon, m.d., facS,<br />
waiting for the reSponSe that could change her life.<br />
“You think I have breast cancer?” she asked the doctor.<br />
“I’m too young for that,” the mother of two teenage boys<br />
thought.<br />
That was October 2009, just a few short months after<br />
she fi rst found a lump in her right breast. Though her breast<br />
tissue had always been a little lumpy, she knew deep down<br />
that this time was diff erent.<br />
results from her biopsy confi rmed Dr. Thompson’s<br />
suspicions, and he called her a few days after their meeting<br />
to give her the news. He also said, “There’s someone I<br />
want you to meet. She’s been in your shoes.” That someone<br />
was breast health navigator Meg Shrader, r.n., B.S.n. A<br />
breast cancer survivor herself, Shrader helps <strong>Augusta</strong> <strong>Health</strong><br />
patients work through an overwhelming number of cancer<br />
resources and coordinates care among the physicians who<br />
treat the disease.<br />
“It was the beginning of a beautiful relationship on a<br />
not-so-beautiful journey,” Bazan says.<br />
Facing down cancer<br />
Bazan would undergo additional testing, including an MrI, a<br />
second biopsy and a diagnostic mammogram, to confi rm her<br />
diagnosis and help physicians determine exactly what they<br />
14 <strong>Health</strong>Matters Spring 2011<br />
were dealing with. Her cancer was stage I, grade 3—an<br />
aggressive form of cancer that was caught early on.<br />
As she began to come to grips with what she was facing,<br />
she often turned to Shrader. “I can’t begin to describe the<br />
impact that Meg has had,” she says. “It was amazing to have<br />
someone to talk with, someone who’s been where I was<br />
headed. She could relate to everything I was telling her.” The<br />
two women discussed treatment options, as well as physical<br />
and emotional issues surrounding breast cancer.<br />
Because testing revealed that Bazan was at high risk for<br />
a recurrence of breast cancer, chemotherapy became part of<br />
her treatment plan. After a lumpectomy in november 2009,<br />
she began the fi rst of four rounds of chemo in December of<br />
that year. Her fi rst chemotherapy treatment was given in a<br />
private room at the hospital’s infusion center to help her<br />
adjust to the new treatment. Subsequent treatments were<br />
given in an area alongside other patients. “I met so many<br />
wonderful people there,” she says.<br />
In preparation for the likelihood of losing her hair, she<br />
had her hairdresser cut her long locks into a short style.<br />
“I cried like a baby when she cut my hair off ,” she says. In<br />
January 2010, her hair started to fall out. That’s when she<br />
shaved her head and covered it with hats.<br />
“It was hard,” admits Bazan. “Society looks at women<br />
based on their hair, makeup and breasts. I felt that everything<br />
that made me a woman was being attacked.”
Six weeks of radiation followed the chemotherapy, with<br />
treatment offi cially wrapping up on April 30, 2010. Bazan was<br />
amazed at how supportive everyone at <strong>Augusta</strong> <strong>Health</strong> was.<br />
That included her medical oncologist, Maya ghaemmaghami,<br />
M.D.—“I felt like she never had another patient; she always took<br />
the time with me”—and her surgeon, Dr. Thompson—“so caring<br />
and humble”—and the oncology nurses, who would stop and<br />
pray with her. And, of course, Shrader. “My healthcare providers<br />
treated not only the body, but the spirit as well,” Bazan says,<br />
noting that the <strong>Augusta</strong> <strong>Health</strong> Cancer Center staff also provided<br />
support to her husband, John, and family.<br />
a new lease on life<br />
now cancer-free, Bazan is currently enrolled in a three-year<br />
clinical trial. It aims to fi nd out if taking bone-building medications<br />
can reduce the risk of cancer spreading to the bones, a common<br />
site of recurrence in breast-cancer patients. She says the study is<br />
helping her do her part to help other women.<br />
Some women might question why breast cancer had to<br />
happen to them, but it’s something that never crossed Bazan’s<br />
mind. “Why not me?” she says. “I’m being led down this path for a<br />
reason.” She says the experience has given her a new lease on life.<br />
She fell in love all over again with her husband, who’s stood by her<br />
throughout this diffi cult journey. She notices things she may not<br />
have before, such as birds singing during a rainstorm. She’s curbed<br />
the hours she puts in at her job as a supervisor in the health information<br />
department at a local psychiatric center.<br />
“This experience changes your perspective,” Bazan says.<br />
“Things that I thought were important before I realize aren’t.<br />
“I’m not the person I was before, and I hope I never will be.”<br />
sanDY bazan (leFt) leans On<br />
HeR HusbanD, JOHn.<br />
getting genetic testing<br />
If you have a strong family history of breast cancer and<br />
are at high risk for the disease, ask your physician about<br />
getting tested for genetic mutations that increase breast<br />
cancer risk as well as other steps to consider, such as<br />
preventive mastectomy or drug therapy with tamoxifen,<br />
raloxifene or aromatase inhibitors.<br />
breast cancer symptoms<br />
The following are warning signs of breast cancer.<br />
See your physician if you experience any of these<br />
symptoms, symptoms, but but keep in mind that most most breast<br />
lumps are not cancerous.<br />
Most common<br />
a painless lump or mass in or<br />
near the breast<br />
less common<br />
a change in breast size or fi rmness<br />
breast skin changes such as dimpling,<br />
a sore or a rash<br />
nipple itching, burning, rash, turning inward<br />
or discharge<br />
a warm area in the breast<br />
Rare<br />
pain in the breast<br />
swelling under the armpit or of the arm<br />
bone pain<br />
❝ why not me? i'm being led down this path<br />
for a reason. this experience changes your<br />
perspective. things that i thought were<br />
important before i realize aren’t. i'm not<br />
the person i was before, and i hope i never<br />
will be. ❞<br />
—sanDY bazan<br />
www.augustahealth.com 15
Preventive<br />
measures<br />
Why vaccines, screenings and<br />
physicals are important<br />
to Stay in top Shape, think in termS of what you can do<br />
now to prevent health problemS from developing later.<br />
“People come in when they feel bad, but good health is really<br />
about prevention—don’t wait until something happens,”<br />
says Diane landauer, M.D., a family practice physician with<br />
<strong>Augusta</strong> <strong>Health</strong>.<br />
Dr. landauer encourages her patients to get vaccines<br />
(immunizations), screenings and physicals—simple measures to<br />
prevent health problems or catch them early.<br />
vaccines<br />
Childhood vaccines include hepatitis B,<br />
varicella (chickenpox) and MMr (measles,<br />
mumps, rubella). With preteens, Dr. landauer<br />
says she promotes vaccination against<br />
the sexually transmitted disease human<br />
Diane papillomavirus (HPv), which can cause<br />
lanDaueR, M.D.<br />
cervical cancer and genital warts.<br />
Depending on their age and health history, adults may<br />
need to get immunizations such as pneumococcal vaccine<br />
16 <strong>Health</strong>Matters Spring 2011<br />
(pneumonia), herpes zoster vaccine (shingles) or booster shots<br />
for vaccines such as tetanus. Dr. landauer says she recommends<br />
the zoster vaccine (normally given to those ages 60 and older)<br />
to younger patients if they’ve had multiple shingles recurrences.<br />
She also advocates the flu shot—those 6 months and older need<br />
it annually.<br />
Unsure if you’re up to date on your vaccinations? Ask your<br />
primary care provider.<br />
screenings<br />
Screenings play a major role in preventing or catching disease<br />
early. lipid panels can spot problems with cholesterol—a key<br />
contributor to heart disease that doesn’t often have symptoms.<br />
“I screen some of my teenage patients for high cholesterol,”<br />
Dr. landauer says. “You’re ahead of the game if you find this early.”<br />
Colonoscopy, recommended for those ages 50 and older<br />
at average risk of colorectal cancer, is another lifesaver. not only<br />
can it help physicians spot cancer early, but any precancerous<br />
growths found during the test can be removed during the procedure.<br />
(See page 5 for more about colonoscopies.)<br />
Other important screenings include blood pressure, mammograms,<br />
Pap tests (for cervical cancer) and diabetes testing.<br />
Physicals<br />
Dr. landauer advocates getting physicals. “It’s a time when I<br />
can check for high blood pressure and order routine blood<br />
work, which can pick up on things we wouldn’t find otherwise,<br />
such as thyroid disease and anemia,” she says.<br />
Physicals are recommended for adults at least every three<br />
years—more frequently for those who are over age 40 or who<br />
have health issues.<br />
talking to teens<br />
The relationship between a primary care provider and<br />
a teenager can be special. While there are no official<br />
guidelines for how often teens should see their physician,<br />
Diane landauer, M.D., says she catches teens when<br />
she can—if they’re in for sports physicals or vaccinations.<br />
She says she assures them that they can talk to her about<br />
anything.<br />
“Sometimes I ask the parent to leave the room,” she<br />
says, allowing the teen to openly discuss issues like sex,<br />
sexually transmitted diseases and drugs. “I want to make<br />
sure they’re not getting their information from their<br />
peers, which may not be so accurate.”
lood donation primer<br />
about one in Seven people entering the hoSpital in the<br />
united StateS will need blood, according to virginia blood<br />
ServiceS (vbS), the blood Supplier for auguSta health.<br />
Yet despite this critical need, less than 10 percent of eligible<br />
donors donate blood annually.<br />
But they might if they knew their one<br />
pint could save as many as three lives. “You<br />
can help a lot of people with just this one gift,<br />
and it doesn’t take a tremendous amount<br />
of eff ort,” says Christopher novotny, M.D., a<br />
pathologist at <strong>Augusta</strong> <strong>Health</strong>.<br />
cHRistOPHeR Blood is more than the red blood cells<br />
nOvOtnY, M.D.<br />
most people envision. It’s actually made of<br />
several components, including platelets, which promote clotting<br />
and can help, among others, cancer patients and accident<br />
victims. Blood also contains plasma, the straw-colored fl uid<br />
portion of blood that helps maintain blood pressure and volume.<br />
Substances found in plasma, such as clotting factors and immune<br />
system proteins, can be used to treat certain diseases and<br />
defi ciencies. Platelets and plasma are separated from red blood<br />
cells following a traditional donation; they can also be specifi cally<br />
donated through a special process called apheresis, in which<br />
donated blood is spun in a centrifuge, the specifi c parts collected<br />
and the rest of the blood returned to the donor.<br />
“There’s a tremendous need for platelets,” Dr. novotny says.<br />
That’s because they have a relatively short shelf life of three to<br />
fi ve days. Most red blood cells can be stored for 42 days, and<br />
plasma can be frozen for up to a year.<br />
becoming a donor<br />
Donating blood takes a total of about a half-hour to an hour—<br />
including fi lling out paperwork to ensure that you qualify. In<br />
virginia, healthy adults who are at least 16 years old and weigh at<br />
least 110 pounds can donate blood every two months, vBS says.<br />
Some would-be donors may be turned away if they have certain<br />
health issues, such as sexually transmitted diseases, or have<br />
recently traveled to a country where malaria is present.<br />
A single-use needle is inserted into the donor’s arm and<br />
the pint of blood is collected usually within 10 minutes, and the<br />
donor sent on his or her way (those donating plasma or platelets<br />
can expect a longer donation process). “giving blood is no worse<br />
than getting blood drawn,” Dr. novotny says for the needle shy.<br />
Testing is performed on all blood donations to ensure safety<br />
standards are met before the blood is distributed to hospitals.<br />
After their blood is processed, all donors will receive information<br />
identifying their blood type. If a donor’s blood is deemed unusable,<br />
he or she will be notifi ed with the reason.<br />
faqs about<br />
blood donation<br />
is donating blood safe? Yes, all needles and bags<br />
are used only once, preventing contamination.<br />
can i donate if i’ve been rejected as a donor<br />
before? You may be able to do so, as many donors are<br />
turned away for temporary conditions, such as low<br />
iron levels.<br />
How often can i give blood? Every 56 days.<br />
How can i feel my best on the day i give blood? get<br />
a good night’s sleep, eat a good meal beforehand,<br />
drink plenty of fl uids and have some juice and cookies<br />
after you donate. Avoid heavy lifting or strenuous<br />
activity for the rest of the day.<br />
How can i help if i’m ineligible to donate? Organize<br />
a blood drive, recruit donors or volunteer at a drive.<br />
giVe the gift of life<br />
keep your eyes open for blood drives in your area.<br />
augusta health, in conjunction with virginia blood<br />
Services, also off ers a collection center in the<br />
acc community care building, which features<br />
traditional blood donation, as well as platelet and<br />
plasma donation. for more information, call<br />
virginia blood Services at (540) 332-4526.<br />
www.augustahealth.com 17
ask the physician<br />
<strong>Augusta</strong> <strong>Health</strong> physicians answer<br />
your questions<br />
q:<br />
how do i know when it’s time for<br />
allergy shots? and do they really<br />
work anyway?<br />
18 <strong>Health</strong>Matters Spring 2011<br />
Most people can manage their<br />
allergy symptoms (such as sneez-<br />
ing, an itchy nose, watery eyes<br />
or congestion) with avoidance<br />
techniques, such as skipping<br />
lia bRuneR, M.D. outdoor activity during the peak<br />
Family practice pollen times of 5 a.m.–10 a.m., or<br />
in lexington<br />
by taking over-the-counter or<br />
prescription medications. But,<br />
not everyone responds to these<br />
methods. In those hard-to-manage cases, your physician<br />
may recommend seeing an allergist for what’s<br />
called immunotherapy, or allergy shots. Allergy shots<br />
work by exposing you to a specific allergen with an<br />
injection. Doses are gradually increased to help you<br />
build resistance and tolerance to the allergen. Allergy<br />
shots can be effective for those whose allergies don’t<br />
seem responsive to other treatments. And they can be<br />
especially effective for children, possibly preventing<br />
the development of asthma in these cases.<br />
However, keep a few things in mind. Allergy shots<br />
require a big time investment; for the first several<br />
months, you may need to visit the allergist up to twice<br />
a week—and it may take you awhile to feel better.<br />
You also need to make sure your insurance covers the<br />
treatment. Allergy shots can be riskier in people with<br />
underlying health conditions or who are on certain<br />
medications, so talk with your physician before<br />
making a decision.<br />
q:<br />
i’m a mom who has food allergies and my<br />
son is just starting table foods. what’s the<br />
best way to introduce him to foods, making<br />
sure that he doesn’t have the same allergic<br />
reactions i do?<br />
Before initiating table foods, discuss your<br />
infant’s feeding schedule with your family<br />
doctor. A family history of food allergies does<br />
increase a child’s risk of having them, too. If<br />
one parent has food allergies, his or her child<br />
c. DaviD<br />
has up to a 40 percent chance of having an<br />
suttOn, M.D.<br />
Family practice allergy, with that risk jumping to 75 percent<br />
in Stuarts Draft<br />
if both parents have food allergies. However,<br />
most people with food allergies are allergic<br />
to eight specific foods that are responsible<br />
for 90 percent of food allergies: tree nuts, peanuts, milk, eggs, soy,<br />
wheat, fish and shellfish—so you shouldn’t be feeding these foods<br />
to your baby for that very reason (Talk with your pediatrician<br />
about when it’s OK to try these eight foods). Most infants start on<br />
an iron-fortified, single-grain baby cereal, working their way up to<br />
pureed meat, vegetables and fruits—aka baby food.<br />
Introduce new foods one at a time, and wait a few days to see<br />
if your baby has a reaction, such as diarrhea, a rash or vomiting. If<br />
a reaction does occur, discuss it with your child’s physician, or seek<br />
emergency help for severe reactions. Some allergies, such as those<br />
to milk, eggs, soybean products and wheat, may be outgrown,<br />
while others, such as allergic reactions to peanuts or shellfish,<br />
will likely not be. On a side note, as many as a quarter of people<br />
think they’re allergic to certain foods but really only 2 percent of<br />
adults and 6 percent of children actually have a true food allergy.<br />
Most people have what’s called a “food intolerance,” which causes<br />
some unpleasant symptoms such as gas, nausea and vomiting but<br />
doesn’t involve the body’s immune system.
Image © istockphoto.com/Steve Cole<br />
q:<br />
my son plays baseball and my daughter<br />
plays tennis. what type of equipment<br />
should they wear to protect their eyes?<br />
When you talk about protection for<br />
sports, you may automatically think of<br />
helmets, padding and other gear. But<br />
don’t overlook the importance of shielding<br />
the eyes from harm. An estimated<br />
MaRc<br />
40,000 eye injuries happen during<br />
sHielDs, M.D.<br />
sports every year—in fact, eye injuries<br />
Ophthalmology<br />
practice<br />
are the leading cause of blindness in<br />
in Fishersville American children, and most injuries<br />
that occur in school-age children<br />
are sports-related. Sadly, more than 90 percent of these<br />
injuries could have been prevented with the proper protective<br />
eyewear. Possible eye injuries include blunt trauma,<br />
when something hits you in the eye (which can lead to such<br />
serious injuries as a detached retina or broken bones around<br />
the eye); penetrating injuries, when something cuts your eye;<br />
and radiation injuries, when the eye is exposed to the sun’s<br />
ultraviolet light.<br />
Because baseball and tennis are two of the leading<br />
sports with eye injuries, you need to ensure that your children<br />
are protected. Contact lenses, sunglasses and helmets<br />
don’t offer enough protection from blunt or penetrating<br />
injuries. Instead, look for protective sports eyewear with<br />
3-mm polycarbonate lenses—these impact-resistant lenses<br />
are available in regular and prescription forms. They’re slim<br />
and light, so your children won’t have to compromise comfort<br />
for safety. If you’re having trouble finding eyewear, ask<br />
your child’s pediatrician for recommendations.<br />
continued on page 20<br />
www.augustahealth.com 19
continued from page 19<br />
q:<br />
my teenage daughter said she plans to<br />
bake in the sun all summer. what are the<br />
negative effects of tanning? i‘d like to<br />
teach her that this isn’t a wise idea.<br />
20 <strong>Health</strong>Matters Spring 2011<br />
School will soon be out for summer,<br />
and that means lots of teenagers will<br />
be headed outdoors to soak up the<br />
sun—often without proper sun protection.<br />
Skin cancer, of course, is one of the<br />
kRisten l. savOla,<br />
biggest consequences of unprotected<br />
M.D., M.eD.<br />
laser and<br />
sunbathing. research has shown that<br />
cosmetic<br />
childhood sunburns lay the founda-<br />
dermatology<br />
tion for the development of future<br />
practice<br />
in Fishersville melanoma (the deadliest form of skin<br />
cancer). Exposure to the sun’s ultraviolet<br />
(Uv) rays can also lead to other types of skin cancer, including<br />
basal cell and squamous cell carcinomas.<br />
Tanning beds have been associated with a 75 percent<br />
increased risk of melanoma when used before age 35 and<br />
have been linked to eye cancer, squamous cell and basal cell<br />
carcinomas, immune system depression and allergic reactions.<br />
But if that still doesn’t prove convincing to your teen,<br />
speak in terms of premature aging: Unprotected Uv exposure<br />
can lead to age spots, spider veins on the face, leathery skin,<br />
wrinkles, loose skin and a blotchy complexion. Dermatologists<br />
refer to this as “photoaging.” To prevent it, follow some<br />
basic sun-protection practices: Don’t deliberately tan; stay out<br />
of the sun between the peak sun hours of 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.;<br />
protect yourself with a wide-brimmed hat and a long-sleeved<br />
shirt; and use broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or<br />
higher year-round.<br />
q:<br />
i know that prostate cancer is often<br />
called a “silent” disease, with few or no<br />
symptoms early on. but are there signs<br />
i should be looking for?<br />
Prostate cancer is the most commonly<br />
diagnosed cancer in men, second only<br />
to lung cancer in the number of cancer<br />
deaths. In its early stages, prostate<br />
cancer often doesn’t have symptoms.<br />
williaM R.<br />
As it advances, it may cause urination<br />
JOnes, M.D.<br />
Urology practice<br />
problems, such as a frequent or urgent<br />
in Fishersville need to pass urine, including at night;<br />
difficulties starting or stopping the urine<br />
stream; an inability to urinate; weak<br />
urine flow; painful or burning urination; blood in the urine<br />
or in semen; pain in the lower back, hips or upper thighs;<br />
erection difficulties; and painful ejaculation. However, these<br />
symptoms can also indicate conditions other than cancer,<br />
which is why it’s important to see your physician if you’re<br />
experiencing any of them. He or she can perform testing to<br />
reach a definitive diagnosis.<br />
Debate surrounds screening for the disease, as potential<br />
benefits of screening may not outweigh the potential risks,<br />
including false-positives and side effects associated with<br />
prostate cancer treatment. Talk with your physician about the<br />
benefits and risks of screening (testing includes the digital<br />
rectal exam and the prostate specific antigen, or PSA, test)<br />
to determine if it’s right for you. Your physician may suggest<br />
beginning at age 50, or earlier if you fall into a high-risk category,<br />
such as if you have a family history of prostate cancer<br />
or are African-American.<br />
Image © istockphoto.com/fatihhoca
Modern technology<br />
New equipment helps with gastroenterologic problems<br />
having trouble Swallowing? plagued by heartburn?<br />
auguSta health can help you get to the root of the<br />
problem with itS modern diagnoStic technology.<br />
Since December, the hospital has been using the ManoScan<br />
360 to perform two tests that evaluate noncardiac chest pain<br />
and diagnose esophageal disorders such as gastroesophageal<br />
reflux disease (gErD) and dysphagia (difficulty swallowing), says<br />
Missy Stokes, r.n., who tests patients using the new system. With<br />
precise pressure measurements, the ManoScan 360 can measure<br />
how well your esophagus muscles can squeeze and if the muscles<br />
are squeezing in the correct sequence—a test called esophageal<br />
manometry. The ManoScan 360 also can evaluate reflux and<br />
determine if you’re experiencing the acidic or nonacidic variety<br />
through a procedure called a pH impedance test. This distinction<br />
is important since medications used to treat acid reflux don’t work<br />
on nonacid reflux, says vanessa lee, M.D., a gastroenterologist<br />
with <strong>Augusta</strong> <strong>Health</strong> gastroenterology. like acid reflux, nonacid<br />
reflux is also uncomfortable and damages the esophagus. Because<br />
previous diagnostic tools weren’t as sensitive, nonacid reflux<br />
was more difficult to diagnose, making it harder to treat.<br />
How it works<br />
Many patients get both esophageal manometry and pH<br />
(l tO R) vanessa lee, M.D., is at tHe<br />
cOMPuteR witH wenDY wYant, R.n.,<br />
anD Melissa stOkes, R.n.<br />
get help from a<br />
gastroenterologist<br />
Think you may benefit<br />
from esophageal testing?<br />
Speak with your primary care<br />
physician, who may suggest that<br />
you see a gastroenterologist. He<br />
or she can determine if you’re<br />
a candidate for ManoScan 360.<br />
To find a gastroenterologist,<br />
please call <strong>Augusta</strong> <strong>Health</strong><br />
gastroenterology at (540)<br />
245-7350 in Staunton or (540)<br />
221-7350 in Waynesboro.<br />
impedance testing with the ManoScan 360,<br />
Dr. lee notes. In both tests, a very thin tube<br />
with 36 sensors is placed through the nose<br />
and down the esophagus.<br />
During esophageal manometry, you’re<br />
asked to swallow, and the tube measures<br />
your esophagus’ response. Full-color<br />
vanessa lee, M.D.<br />
images and pressure measurements are then displayed on a<br />
computer screen. Esophageal manometry is performed as an<br />
outpatient procedure, and with a local anesthetic takes about<br />
45 minutes—with only about 15 minutes of that spent with<br />
the tube in the throat for the procedure. The only special prep<br />
is not drinking or eating for several hours before the test, says<br />
Wendy Wyant, r.n., of <strong>Augusta</strong> <strong>Health</strong>.<br />
During pH impedance testing, you’re sent home with<br />
the tube taped in the right place and attached to a recording<br />
device for 24 hours. As you go about your day, the system<br />
evaluates every episode of reflux and measures its pH,<br />
says vicki Taylor, r.n., B.S.n., director of surgical services at<br />
<strong>Augusta</strong> <strong>Health</strong>. The tube won’t affect eating, drinking or<br />
breathing. After 24 hours, you return to your physician’s office<br />
to have the tube removed. He or she will read the results and<br />
make a diagnosis.<br />
www.augustahealth.com 21
augusta health lifetime<br />
fitness group classes<br />
nonmembers may purchase a 10-class<br />
pass for $100. Classes run on an ongoing<br />
basis. Other classes not listed here<br />
can be found on our website at www.<br />
augustahealth.com/lifetime-fitness.<br />
For more information, call Sharon Stiteler<br />
of lifetime Fitness at (540) 332-5571.<br />
YOga classes<br />
basic: Mondays, 5:30 p.m., and<br />
Tuesdays, 9 a.m.<br />
intermediate: Thursdays, 8:45 a.m.<br />
Fitness Yoga: Wednesdays, 6:30 p.m.<br />
tai cHi<br />
cancer Recovery: Tuesdays, 6:45 p.m.<br />
Free to cancer recovery patients; sponsored<br />
by <strong>Augusta</strong> <strong>Health</strong> Cancer Center<br />
arthritis and Diabetes: Tuesdays,<br />
11:15 a.m.<br />
beginner: Wednesdays, 11:15 a.m.<br />
intermediate: Thursdays, 11:15 a.m.<br />
advanced: Tuesdays, 7:30 p.m.<br />
cHi kung<br />
intermediate: Tuesdays, 10:15 a.m.<br />
advanced: Thursdays, 10:15 a.m.<br />
les Mills bODY cOMbat<br />
Mondays, 5:30 p.m.; Tuesdays, 4:30 p.m.;<br />
Wednesdays, noon; Fridays, 5:15 a.m.<br />
MaRtial aRts<br />
Extra fee, class passes excluded<br />
beginner: Mondays and Wednesdays,<br />
7–8 p.m.<br />
intermediate: Mondays and<br />
Wednesdays, 8–9 p.m.<br />
cost: $55 a month for members,<br />
$90 for nonmembers<br />
22 <strong>Health</strong>Matters Spring 2011<br />
Happenings<br />
at <strong>Augusta</strong> <strong>Health</strong><br />
Calendar of classes and groups<br />
aQuatic classes<br />
aqua Power: Mondays, Tuesdays and<br />
Fridays, 7:45 a.m.; Tuesdays and Fridays,<br />
9 a.m.; Mondays, 4:45 p.m. (Fitness Pool)<br />
aqua express: Thursdays, 4:45–5:30 p.m.<br />
aqua Jogging: Mondays and<br />
Thursdays, 9 a.m. (Fitness Pool)<br />
tHeRaPeutic/ReHabilitative<br />
aQuatic classes<br />
aqua lite: Mondays–Fridays, 9 a.m. and<br />
10 a.m.; Tuesdays and Thursdays,<br />
9 a.m. and 10 a.m.; Wednesdays, 4:45 p.m.<br />
(Therapy Pool)<br />
Range of Motion (ROM): Mondays and<br />
Fridays, 11 a.m. (Therapy Pool)<br />
zuMba Dance<br />
Mondays, 9:15 a.m.; Tuesdays, 3:45 p.m.;<br />
Wednesdays, 5:30 p.m.; Thursdays,<br />
12:15 p.m.; Fridays, 5:30 p.m.<br />
oncology Support groups<br />
For more information about any cancer<br />
group, call leigh Anderson at<br />
(540) 245-7105.<br />
FRienDs listening<br />
tO FRienDs gROuP<br />
For newly diagnosed cancer patients<br />
who have fears, questions or concerns.<br />
This group also addresses life after cancer<br />
treatments, dealing with recurrence of the<br />
disease and chronic symptoms related to<br />
living with cancer.<br />
when: Mondays, 4:30–5:30 p.m.<br />
where: <strong>Augusta</strong> <strong>Health</strong> Cancer Center<br />
Conference room<br />
caRegiveR suPPORt gROuP<br />
While you‘re taking care of your loved<br />
one, don’t forget to take care of yourself.<br />
when: Mondays, 4–5 p.m.<br />
where: <strong>Augusta</strong> <strong>Health</strong> Cancer Center<br />
Conference room<br />
Stroke Support<br />
sHenanDOaH valleY<br />
stROke club<br />
Sponsored by the recreation Therapy<br />
department at <strong>Augusta</strong> <strong>Health</strong>, the Stroke<br />
Club is a support group for those who<br />
have suffered a stroke and their family<br />
members, care partners and friends.<br />
when: At noon the first Friday of every<br />
month (May 6, June 3, July 1, Aug. 5 )<br />
call: Shelley Payne at (540) 332-4047 or<br />
(540) 932-4047<br />
stROke sYMPOsiuM 2011<br />
who: People in the <strong>Augusta</strong> <strong>Health</strong><br />
service area interested in learning more<br />
about stroke prevention<br />
what: 2011 <strong>Augusta</strong> <strong>Health</strong> Annual<br />
Stroke Symposium<br />
when: May 12, 4–6 p.m.<br />
where: <strong>Augusta</strong> <strong>Health</strong> Community Care<br />
Building, rooms 2 and 3<br />
sponsor: <strong>Augusta</strong> <strong>Health</strong><br />
educational opportunities: Stroke<br />
information presented by <strong>Augusta</strong> <strong>Health</strong><br />
Stroke Program Medical Director robert<br />
McMahon Jr., M.D. Dietary information<br />
presented by Kara Mcgill Meeks, r.D.<br />
Sleep apnea and stroke information<br />
presented by Evan Wenger, M.D.<br />
screenings:<br />
Carotid ultrasound as well as cholesterol<br />
and glucose screenings: Call<br />
(540) 332-5647 to schedule a time slot.<br />
Blood pressure screening.<br />
Stroke risk assessment.<br />
information about: High cholesterol, diabetes,<br />
carotid narrowing, heart disease,<br />
Image © istockphoto.com/Sondra Paulson
high blood pressure, quitting smoking,<br />
atrial fibrillation and a healthy diet.<br />
community wellness<br />
gain inDePenDence FROM<br />
tObaccO<br />
This proven six-session smoking and<br />
smokeless tobacco cessation program<br />
will help you examine how and why you<br />
use tobacco and create an individual quit<br />
plan. nicotine replacement therapy and<br />
pharmacological aids for cessation are<br />
examined so that each person can choose<br />
if he or she needs this help. One-on-one<br />
assistance is available upon request.<br />
when: Fall classes begin Thursday,<br />
Sept. 15, 6–7:30 p.m.<br />
call: (540) 332-4988 for more information<br />
YOu can! live well, augusta!<br />
This series of workshops helps people<br />
who suffer with chronic illnesses, such as<br />
asthma and heart disease, learn ways to<br />
self-manage their condition.<br />
when: Fall classes begin Tuesday, Sept. 6 at<br />
1 p.m. and 6 p.m.<br />
call: (540) 332-4192 or (540) 332-4988<br />
for more information<br />
live well, witH Diabetes!<br />
Classes focus on healthy eating, practical<br />
exercise, problem solving, goal setting,<br />
pain and fatigue management, appropriate<br />
use of medications and working more<br />
effectively with healthcare providers as<br />
related to diabetes. This program doesn’t<br />
conflict with or take the place of your<br />
current self-management education or<br />
treatment. We encourage continued contact<br />
with your current certified diabetes<br />
educator and healthcare provider.<br />
when: Fall classes begin Tuesday, Oct. 18<br />
at 1 p.m. and 6 p.m.<br />
call: (540) 332-4192 or (540) 332-4988<br />
for more information<br />
sMaRt-sitteRs<br />
This babysitting class for adolescents<br />
ages 12 and older includes infant and child<br />
care: feeding, bathing and age-appropriate<br />
activities. First Aid and Family and Friends<br />
CPr are also covered.<br />
when: Thursday, June 16, 8 a.m.–4:30 p.m.<br />
call: (540) 332-4190<br />
ostomy Support group<br />
augusta HealtH DiveRsiOns—<br />
assisting YOu FOllOwing<br />
OstOMY suRgeRY<br />
In this group meeting, you’ll share ideas<br />
and improve your quality of life after<br />
ostomy surgery.<br />
where: <strong>Augusta</strong> <strong>Health</strong> Community<br />
Care Building<br />
call: (540) 332-4346 for details<br />
augusta health lifetime<br />
fitness tennis program<br />
Schedule<br />
aDult 1*2*3 tennis<br />
Tennis is as easy as 1*2*3! learn to play,<br />
improve skills and how to practice in<br />
this group clinic. Ages 18 and older<br />
when: Thursdays, 6–7:30 p.m.<br />
cost: $76.50<br />
sessions: May 26–June 16, June 30–<br />
July 21, Aug. 11–Sept. 1<br />
laDies' nigHt tennis<br />
Enjoy round robin ladies' singles, doubles,<br />
and alternative format play with new and<br />
old friends.<br />
when: Wednesdays, 6–8 p.m.<br />
cost: $72<br />
session: June 8–Aug. 31<br />
Men's nigHt tennis<br />
Enjoy round robin men’s singles, doubles,<br />
and alternative format play with new and<br />
old friends.<br />
when: Wednesdays, 6–8 p.m.<br />
cost: $72<br />
session: June 8–Aug. 31<br />
aDult caRDiO tennis<br />
Feel the beat and move your feet! This<br />
“workout” tennis program is sure to leave<br />
you energized.<br />
Ages 18 and older<br />
when: Mondays, 6:15–7:15 p.m.;<br />
Wednesdays, 9–10 a.m.<br />
cost: $60<br />
Monday sessions: June 6–July 11,<br />
July 25–Aug. 29<br />
wednesday sessions: June 8–July 13,<br />
July 27–Aug. 31<br />
MuncHkin tennis<br />
Age 10 and under tennis format: Smaller<br />
court, smaller equipment, BIg FUn!<br />
Beginner, ages 4–6<br />
when: Mondays, Tuesdays and Thursdays,<br />
9:15–10 a.m.<br />
cost: $57.50<br />
sessions: June 13–23, June 27–July 7,<br />
July 18–28, Aug. 8–18<br />
FutuRe staRs<br />
10 and under tennis format: Smaller court,<br />
smaller equipment, BIg FUn!<br />
Beginner and intermediate, ages 7–10<br />
when: Mondays and Wednesdays,<br />
10 a.m.–12 p.m.<br />
cost: $102<br />
sessions: June 13–23, June 27–July 7,<br />
July 18–28, Aug. 8–18<br />
Rising staRs<br />
learn to play the right way through<br />
competitive drills and games.<br />
Beginner and intermediate, ages 11–17<br />
when: Tuesdays and Thursdays,<br />
10 a.m-12 p.m.<br />
cost: $102<br />
sessions: June 13–23, June 27–July 7,<br />
July 18–28, Aug. 8–18<br />
aces<br />
Take your game to new levels with<br />
advanced training and competition.<br />
Advanced and competitive, ages 12–17<br />
when: Tuesdays, Wednesdays and<br />
Thursdays, 12:30–2:30 p.m.<br />
cost: $153<br />
sessions: June 13–23, June 27–July 7,<br />
July 18–28, Aug. 8–18<br />
JuniOR sOFt cOuRt cHaMPiOnsHiPs<br />
girls and boys ages 12 and under, 14 and<br />
under, 16 and under; and 18 and under<br />
singles and doubles tournament<br />
when: Monday–Friday, 8 a.m.–5 p.m.,<br />
July 11-15<br />
cost: $22 first event, $12 second event<br />
All programs held at the lifetime<br />
Fitness/Tennis facility on the <strong>Augusta</strong><br />
<strong>Health</strong> campus. Times and fees are subject<br />
to change. For more information about<br />
tennis programming, call Chad reed,<br />
Tennis Coordinator/Pro, at (540) 332-5280<br />
or e-mail creed@augustahealth.com.<br />
www.augustahealth.com 23
arrett’s<br />
esophagus<br />
learn more about this serious<br />
gerd complication<br />
many people have heard of gerd (gaStroeSophageal<br />
reflux diSeaSe) and know that frequent heartburn iS itS<br />
moSt common Symptom. gErD can be chalked up to weakened<br />
muscles in the digestive tract that allow stomach acid to<br />
leak back into the esophagus.<br />
But what you may not know is that over time, gErD can<br />
cause serious complications—including Barrett’s esophagus.<br />
According to the American Cancer Society,<br />
people with this condition have 30 to<br />
125 times the risk of developing esophageal<br />
cancer than those who don’t.<br />
“Barrett’s esophagus aff ects 1 percent<br />
of adults in the United States,” says Paul<br />
Paul guaRinO, M.D.<br />
guarino, M.D., a gastroenterologist at<br />
24 <strong>Health</strong>Matters Spring 2011<br />
<strong>Augusta</strong> <strong>Health</strong> gastroenterology. “People most at risk include<br />
those with gErD, those over the age of 50, those who are<br />
obese, those who have a hiatal hernia and those who are<br />
male.” Of people with Barrett’s esophagus, 1 in 200 develop<br />
esophageal cancer each year, Dr. guarino says. That’s because<br />
constant exposure to stomach acid damages the esophagus’<br />
lining, which can trigger precancerous cell changes.<br />
Do i have barrett’s esophagus?<br />
"Aside from acid reflux, Barrett’s esophagus has no symptoms,"<br />
Dr. guarino says. It can only be diagnosed with an<br />
upper endoscopy, a procedure which examines the esophagus.<br />
If needed, during the endoscopy, a tissue sample<br />
can also be taken to be analyzed for abnormalities; small<br />
cancers may also be removed.<br />
Treatment for Barrett’s esophagus includes acidsuppressing<br />
medications such as proton pump inhibitors<br />
(PPIs) and monitoring of the condition. To keep an eye on<br />
any changes, an upper endoscopy is recommended every<br />
one to three years for people who have been diagnosed<br />
with the condition, Dr. guarino says. Many experts also<br />
recommend that everyone over age 40 who suffers from<br />
chronic acid reflux get an upper endoscopy to check for<br />
any abnormal changes.<br />
tips to reduce<br />
acid refl ux<br />
Avoid trigger foods, including chocolate, fatty foods,<br />
caff eine, tomatoes, citrus fruits, spicy foods, mint<br />
and alcohol.<br />
Maintain a normal weight.<br />
Avoid big meals and meals<br />
eaten later at night.<br />
Eat slowly.<br />
Don’t use tobacco.<br />
Wear looser-fi tting clothes.<br />
stop heartburn in its tracks!<br />
make an appointment with paul guarino, m.d.,<br />
by calling (540) 245-7350 in Staunton or<br />
(540) 221-7350 in waynesboro.
new HeatHcaRe PROviDeRs<br />
At <strong>Augusta</strong> <strong>Health</strong>, recruiting experienced, dedicated providers for your healthcare is one of our<br />
top priorities. These generalists and specialists can help keep you and your family healthy. We’d<br />
like to introduce you to our new medical staff members.<br />
}<br />
Our highly trained physicians<br />
and staff use state-of-the-art<br />
technology to provide the best<br />
care with warmth and<br />
compassion.<br />
26 <strong>Health</strong>Matters Spring 2011<br />
allisOn baROcO, M.D.<br />
infectious disease physician<br />
medical School: University of<br />
South Alabama<br />
residency: Eastern virginia<br />
Medical School<br />
fellowship: Eastern virginia<br />
Medical School<br />
practice: <strong>Augusta</strong> Medical group<br />
PatRick baROcO, M.D.<br />
hospitalist<br />
medical School: University of<br />
South Alabama<br />
residency: Eastern virginia<br />
Medical School<br />
practice: <strong>Augusta</strong> <strong>Health</strong> Hospitalists<br />
alan cOHen, M.D.<br />
internal medicine physician<br />
medical School: Washington<br />
University School of Medicine<br />
residency: Jewish Hospital,<br />
Washington University School<br />
of Medicine<br />
practice: <strong>Augusta</strong> <strong>Health</strong><br />
Internal Medicine, Waynesboro<br />
}<br />
MaRY “asHleY” cOOk,<br />
F.n.P.<br />
family nurse practitioner<br />
education: Eastern Mennonite<br />
University, BSn<br />
University of virginia, MSn<br />
practice: <strong>Augusta</strong> <strong>Health</strong> Family<br />
Practice, lexington<br />
JOHn “Jack“ gaRbeR, P.a.-c<br />
certified physician assistant<br />
education: Hampden-Sydney<br />
College, B.S., math/economics<br />
Kings College, B.S., Physician<br />
Assistant<br />
practice: <strong>Augusta</strong> <strong>Health</strong> Cardiology<br />
kellY Jensen, M.D.<br />
obstetrician and gynecologist<br />
medical School: University of<br />
Mississippi<br />
residency: Eastern virginia Medical<br />
School<br />
practice: <strong>Augusta</strong> <strong>Health</strong> Care for<br />
Women<br />
find the physician you need!<br />
if you or a family member needs a primary<br />
care or specialty physician, visit www.augusta<br />
health.com and click on “find a physician.”
new facility off ers quality<br />
primary care, right in your<br />
own community<br />
auguSta health iS helping meet the growing need for<br />
primary care providerS with the opening of itS auguSta<br />
health family practice in churchville.<br />
Slated to open June 13, the practice will be headed up<br />
by Diane landauer, M.D. Dr. landauer specializes in family<br />
medicine and sees everyone from children to adults. The<br />
practice will offer a variety of services, from physicals and flu<br />
shots, to disease management and specialist referrals.<br />
“A primary care physician is the gatekeeper for your<br />
medical records and knows everything that ails you, which<br />
is why it’s so important to have one,” says Phillip Worrell,<br />
who, as project manager for <strong>Augusta</strong> <strong>Health</strong>, has been<br />
overseeing the development of the new<br />
practice. “And if you need more specialized<br />
care, he or she will know exactly<br />
where to send you to get that.”<br />
The practice is located at 3881<br />
Churchville Ave. in Churchville. Hours will<br />
be Mondays and Fridays, 8 a.m .–4:30 p.m.;<br />
Diane<br />
lanDaueR, M.D.<br />
Tuesdays, 8 a.m.–noon; and Wednesdays,<br />
10 a.m.–8 p.m. The office will be closed on Thursdays and<br />
weekends. To schedule an appointment at this new facility,<br />
call (540) 248-4417. To make an appointment after June 13,<br />
call (540) 213-9260.<br />
www.augustahealth.com 27
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augusta <strong>Health</strong> Matters is published by augusta <strong>Health</strong>.<br />
the articles in this publication should not be considered<br />
specific medical advice, as each individual circumstance<br />
is different. entire publication © 2011 augusta <strong>Health</strong>.<br />
all rights reserved. For more information or to be<br />
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augusta <strong>Health</strong> named<br />
tOP HOsPital and honored<br />
with other awards<br />
providing quality patient care and having a Strong<br />
commitment to the well-being of itS community—thoSe<br />
have alwayS been the cornerStone of auguSta health’S<br />
miSSion. now these efforts have garnered national<br />
recognition.<br />
In March, <strong>Augusta</strong> <strong>Health</strong> was the only hospital in virginia<br />
to be named one of the Thompson reuters 100 Top Hospitals®.<br />
Just as the name implies, <strong>Augusta</strong> <strong>Health</strong> was recognized as<br />
one of the best hospitals in the country for excellence in clinical<br />
care, patient perception of care, operational efficiency and<br />
financial stability. Among the 100 Top, <strong>Augusta</strong> <strong>Health</strong> was<br />
one of six Everest Award winners for the highest rate of improvement<br />
and performance. <strong>Augusta</strong> <strong>Health</strong> was also<br />
recently awarded the Distinguished Hospital Award for<br />
Clinical Excellence and the Patient Safety Excellence Award<br />
from <strong>Health</strong>grades, an independent healthcare ratings<br />
organization. The hospital was also named one of four national<br />
finalists for the American Hospital Association’s 2010 Foster<br />
g. Mcgaw Prize, an award that recognizes a hospital’s service<br />
and commitment to improving the health of its community<br />
through various initiatives.<br />
For the second year in a row, <strong>Augusta</strong> <strong>Health</strong> has been the<br />
only hospital in virginia honored with both the Clinical Excellence<br />
and Patient Safety Awards from <strong>Health</strong>grades. Using patient<br />
outcomes to rank hospitals, the Distinguished Hospital Award is<br />
given to hospitals performing in the top 5 percent nationwide in<br />
26 medical procedures and diagnoses. The Patient Safety Excellence<br />
AuguSTA HeAlTH<br />
78 medICAl CeNTer drIve<br />
P.O. BOx 1000<br />
FISHerSvIlle, vA 22939<br />
Non-Profit Organization<br />
US POSTAGE<br />
PAID<br />
Lebanon Junction, KY<br />
Permit No. 115<br />
Award denotes a hospital’s low rates of avoidable complications,<br />
such as bedsores and severe infections, says lisa Schwenk, Director<br />
of Communications and Public relations at the hospital.<br />
The hospital also netted nine <strong>Health</strong>grades Top 10 Awards<br />
in areas such as coronary intervention, stroke, orthopedic<br />
surgery and critical care.<br />
caring for the community<br />
“The Foster g. Mcgaw Prize is the premier community service<br />
honor given by the American Hospital Association,” Schwenk says.<br />
As a finalist, <strong>Augusta</strong> <strong>Health</strong> was recognized for several of<br />
its community-based initiatives, including:<br />
• community <strong>Health</strong> Forum initiative<br />
• ORcas (Outreach, Resources, care and Prevention,<br />
assessment and sealants)<br />
• Fit for life<br />
• wOw (working on wellness)<br />
• Mentoring the next generation<br />
While the 100 Top, Everest Award, <strong>Health</strong>grades and Foster<br />
g. Mcgaw recognitions are feathers in the <strong>Augusta</strong> <strong>Health</strong><br />
cap, they say a lot more about what you can expect from your<br />
community hospital. “Our community has some of the best care<br />
available in the nation, right in their own backyards,” Schwenk<br />
says. “These awards let everyone know, ‘You don’t need to travel<br />
for your healthcare. Quality care is given right here by your<br />
friends, family and neighbors.’ It’s a real community connection<br />
that makes a difference.”