A Natural - Home | Health Matters | Augusta Healthaugustahealthmatters.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/health_matt… · William L. Pfost, Secretary and Treasurer Charles “Mick”

mattersFALL

2015

health

ALSO IN THIS ISSUE:Key Health Screenings New Lung Cancer Technology

Preventing C. diff

Chill This Holiday Season

Hip replacement allows gardener and national radio host Andre Viette to return to his roots

A Natural

Taking the Lead

Mary N. Mannix, FACHE President and Chief Executive Officer Augusta Health

The Magazine of Augusta Health

Serving Staunton, Waynesboro and Augusta counties and surrounding communities

Augusta Health Board of Directors

Rev. John C. Peterson, Chairman

Victor M. Santos, Vice-Chairman

Mary N. Mannix, President

William L. Pfost, Secretary and Treasurer

Charles “Mick” Anderson, MD John “Rob” O. Marsh, MD

E. Stuart Crow Beverly “Cheri” S. Moran

John B. Davis Burnie Powers

Sam Graham, MD Joseph L. Ranzini, MD

Laurel L. Landes Arona E. Richard

Participating, Non-Voting Members:

Marc Shields, MD, MS President

Buckley Gillock, MD, MS President-Elect

Augusta Health Hospital Staff

President and CEO Mary Mannix, FACHE

Interim Chief Medical Officer Lon McPherson, MD

Chief Operating Officer Lisa Cline

Chief Nursing Officer Marvella Rea

V.P. Finance Robert Riley

V.P. Planning and Development Kathleen Heatwole

President AMG Karen Clark

V.P. Fund Development Tami Radecke

V.P. Human Resources Dan O’Connor

Vice President of Medical Affairs, AMG Scott Just, MD

Augusta Health Marketing Department

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our website at augustahealth.com.

Health Matters is published by the Augusta Health Marketing

Department, 64 Sports Medicine Drive, Fishersville, VA 22939.

All rights reserved.

The information contained herein is not a substitute for professional medical

care or advice. If you have medical concerns, seek the guidance of a healthcare

professional. Health Matters is aimed at connecting the community with

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Editor/Director of Marketing Vicki Kirby

Web Developer/Marketing Asst. Brian McGill

2 HEALTH MATTERS Fall 2015

Slowing the Holiday TempoAh, the holidays. It’s a time of year like no other. Everything seems more amped up — the food, TV commercials, decorations and activity level.

So what happens when you’re not in the mood? Or if life events make a year’s holiday season seem less ho, ho, ho and more blah, blah, blah. Well, we probably all have been here. But sometimes it can feel pretty lonely when we don’t seem to be in the holiday spirit like everyone else.

We have an answer for you: Take the holidays at your own pace. So what if your house isn’t decorated to resemble the “perfect” holiday home? Enjoying the season might mean making the time between Thanksgiving and New Year’s a little slower and less busy. Maybe it’s about substituting hectic gift shopping trips to the mall for long walks to enjoy the cooler air and reflect on life’s changes over the past year. Or taking an afternoon to do some volunteer work. How about blocking off time out from the rush of the season to have a friend over for tea and a good talk — and laugh? We offer more suggestions in our Apple a Day section. The bottom line? You can enjoy the holidays on your own terms, in your own time.

The fall season is a good time to focus on our own health. We offer a substantive list of screenings this issue on page 8. Keep this list in mind when you pay a visit to your primary care doctor for your annual checkup.

There is always something happening at Augusta Health. October saw the annual Shenandoah House Tennis Tournament (SHouT), which benefits the Gifted Care program at the Shenandoah House, a hospice program at Augusta Health. See more on page 16. This November, the third annual Quilts of Comfort will take place at the Augusta Expo. Proceeds from this event also will go toward the Gifted Care program.

Our job is to help the community, in various forms. This issue, we offer education on ways to prevent the spread of C. diff, a serious illness that is affecting communities across the United States. Learn more on page 18.

As always, you, the patients, staff and families of our hospital, make us special. One of our very own featured this issue is a local celebrity. Andre Viette, who received a hip replacement here, has a national radio show about gardening. Be sure to read the story on page 21 and catch his program on a Saturday morning soon.

Best wishes for a healthy and personally enriching fall!

contentsfall 2015

screening mattersThe screenings you need over a lifetime

Around AugustaNews and tips from your community hospital

4

The Doctor Is InYour health questions answered

6

GI mattersAugusta Health surgeon Kristin Turza, MD,

has colorectal expertise

11

lung mattersNew mini microscope helps detect lung cancer earlier and faster

12

foundation mattersRecent Shenandoah House Tennis Tournament

benefits hospice’s Gifted Care program

16

infection control mattersLearn ways to prevent the spread of C. diff bacteria

18

joint mattersGardener extraordinaire Andre Viette undergoes hip surgery

21

HappeningsClasses and groups at Augusta Health

26

Day in the LifePhysician liaison Chris Morgenstern

31

handling holiday stressWays to beat the blues and enjoy the season

23

8

14cancer mattersThe basics regarding breast cancer prevention

muscle memoryStrength training is a critical exercise component We have all heard that it is important to exercise every day. So what about incorporating strength training into our workouts? The evidence is pretty clear that if we are not doing strength training, we may be over-looking an important form of exercise. Here are some reasons why:

1. Strength training strengthens bone health. This is especially important for older women, many of whom are at risk for osteoporosis, a progressive bone disease. Strength training increases bone density and reduces the risk for fractures among women 50–70, according to results of a Tufts University study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association in 1994.

2. Strength training aids in and helps us maintain weight loss. Individuals who have more muscle mass have a higher metabolic rate. Muscle is active tissue that consumes calories while stored fat uses very little energy. Strength training can provide up to a 15 percent increase in metabolic rate, which is helpful for weight loss and long-term weight control.

3. Strength training helps our minds. Strength training provides similar improvements in depression as anti-depressant medications, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

4. Strength training helps decrease pain of arthritis. The results of a 16-week strength-training program at Tufts Univer-sity showed that strength training decreased moderate to severe knee osteoarthritis pain by 43 percent, increased muscle strength and general physical performance, improved the clinical signs and symptoms of the disease, and decreased disability.

5. Strength training helps with balance. Strengthen-ing exercises, when done properly and through the full range of motion, increase a person’s flexibility and balance, which decrease the likelihood and severity of falls.

around Augusta news and tips from your community hospital

Looking Better and BetterRenovations in first-floor corridorTo continue serving our patients and the community with the best possible care, Augusta Health is renovating and making more improvements throughout the hospital this fall.

Renovations will take place in the hospital’s first-floor corridor that leads to the medical office building. The corridor will gain new features such as lighting, wall coverings, and terrazzo floor-ing instead of carpet. “The floor will need pouring, so we will be rerouting patients as we do each phase,” says Lisa Cline, MSN, MBA, vice president of operations at Augusta Health. “It will be inter-esting, but I think the results will be quite beautiful.”

The hospital has already completed renovations to the first and second floors of the patient tower, and Cline says construction on the third floor will begin around December. The rooms on the third floor will be receiving the same overhaul as the rooms on the other floors, complete with new flooring, paint, headboards, and retiled bathrooms and showers. The third-floor project will take about seven to eight months, and will also be done in phases in order to keep patients comfortable throughout the process.

Cline adds that renovations to the inpatient pharmacy are also about to start, and that the hospital is in the planning stages for emergency room and ICU renovations.


Augusta Health’s Lifetime Fitness offers workshops on free weights for women. Learn more at the front desk of Lifetime Fitness.

creating these programs even easier. “I’ve been doing house calls all my career,” says Dr. Shapcott. “With GPS, patients have never been easier to find. Mobile diagnostic technology allows us to provide a high level of care in the home. Computer connectivity allows me to access informa-tion in the home, right there at a patient’s bedside, which I was never able to do before.”

Experiencing ResultsBoyd Thompson, one of Dr. Shapcott’s longtime patients, became part of the Medical House Call Program upon its implementation. After suffering from a stroke, Thompson became paralyzed on one side and lost much of his ability to speak. However, when he is able to say a few words, Thompson thanks Dr. Shapcott for his care during house visits. “He’s really grateful,” says Linda Queen, who has been Thompson’s care provider for nearly two years. “Mr. Thompson never wanted to go to a nursing home, so I told him as long as I had breath in me he would never have to. I hope this program really takes off.”

The goal, Dr. Shapcott adds, is to develop a sustainable program that would include a multiperson house call team to provide care for home-bound patients. “I feel very blessed to be leading this charge,” says Dr. Shap-cott. “We are taking care of patients and their families in their home, where they need to be taken care of.”

Healing at

Thomas A. Shapcott, MD, worked as a family physician for 30 years for a private practice in Staunton, Virginia. During that time, he always felt like there was a piece missing from his and other medical practices: care for the homebound.

Recently, Dr. Shapcott partnered with Augusta Health to fix this problem by imple-menting the Medical House Call Program.

“The Medical House Call Program has been something that I wanted to create as a final career goal,” says Dr. Shapcott. “I was hired by the hospital last November specifically to launch this program.”

The Medical House Call Program, which began in August, provides healthcare services to homebound adults who cannot access, or find it exceedingly difficult to access, office-based medical care. The program also works to reduce the number of unnecessary emergency room visits and hospitalizations, which in turn saves the patient money and lowers the cost of Medicare.

As the elderly population continues to grow, the need for house call programs has increased, Dr. Shapcott says. Recent advances in technology have made

Thomas A. Shapcott, MD

New House Call Program targets those who can’t access office-based medical care

Home

augustahealth.com 5

To enter the Medical House Call Program, patients need a referral from their primary care providers.

Even patients who are temporarily homebound can request entry into the program. Learn more about the

Medical House Call Program at (540) 245-7509.

the doctor is in


A

Q How do I know if I need a hip replacement?

George A. Godette, MDOrthopedic Surgery

The most common reasons for hip replace-ment surgery are joint pain and arthritis. Surgery is recommended when the pain or stiffness interfere with your quality of life. If you find it difficult to do regular daily activities, such as walking, climbing stairs, sitting in a car or even sleeping, it might be time to talk to your doctor about a hip replacement.

Before choosing hip replacement sur-gery, your doctor may try less invasive treatments such as pain-relieving medications, muscle-strengthening exercises and walking aids to reduce stress on the joint. If pain and stiffness are still a problem after these treat-

ments, your doctor can refer you to an orthopedic surgeon. An orthopedic

surgeon will perform an examination of your hip with X-rays and physical tests that determine strength and range of motion. The surgeon will also ask you to describe your pain and any past injuries that may have affected your hip.

The right time for hip replacement surgery is different for everybody. You should talk to your family and think about your own well-being before you decide. Consider factors such as your general health, time away from work and how long recovery will take after the surgery. It’s important that you don’t put off a hip replacement too long, however; as hip arthritis worsens, so does the stiffness in your joints. This can make hip replacement surgery more difficult and result in longer recovery and more physical therapy. In severe cases, joint flexibility may never return to normal.

While most people who have hip replace-ment are between 60 and 80 years old, younger people have been increasingly turning to this surgery as a way to maintain function and quality of life. Age is less of a concern than factors such as pain, disability and general health. Some patients need to lose weight as a conservative option before surgery. A patient with a body-mass index greater than 30 is going to struggle in rehab! Obese patients need to lose at least 15 percent of their weight before undergoing total hip replacements.

your health questions answered

augustahealth.com 7

Fellowship training provides an additional year of specialized focus on sports medicine beyond the five years of post-med-ical school training required for the practice of orthopedic surgery. Choosing to become fellowship-trained in sports medicine allows for the honing and mastering of very specialized surgical techniques, which enable surgeons to repair a variety of injuries due to trauma or overuse.

Sports medicine fellowship-trained surgeons not only treat athletes of all levels, but they also treat people with active lifestyles or demanding occupations. People from all age categories and activity levels may benefit from evaluations by sports medicine fellowship-trained sur-geons when they develop pain or injuries that prevent them from pursuing their chosen sports, activities or pastimes. The most commonly seen injuries include shoulder and knee injuries, but sports medicine surgeons treat many different areas of the body including the elbow, wrist, hand, hip, foot and ankle.

Injuries commonly treated by sports medicine fellowship-trained surgeons include ligament injuries to the knee such as the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) and the medial collateral ligament (MCL), quadriceps or patellar tendon tears, and cartilage injuries like meniscal tears or osteochondral lesions (OCDs). Common shoulder injuries include rotator cuff tears, IabraI tears or biceps tendon injuries. Other commonly treated problems are dislocations and separations of the joints; Achilles tendon injuries; fractures including the clavicle (collarbone), wrist, ankle, hand and fingers; and other injuries of the upper and lower limbs.

Fellowship-trained sports medicine surgeons have extensive training in arthroscopy, which is a minimally invasive technique that allows for repair of injured joints with less damage to surrounding tissues and smaller incisions with quicker recovery than traditional open surgery. Problems that can be treated with arthroscopic surgery include rotator cuff tears, IabraI tears and biceps tendon injuries in the shoulder, ACL tears, meniscal tears, OCD lesions in the knee and many others.

A

Jack. F. Otteni, MDOrthopedic SurgeonFellowship-Trained and Board-Certified in Orthopedic/Sports Medicine

What kind of issues does an orthopedic surgeon fellowship-trained in sports medicine address?

Q


[screening] matters

augustahealth.com 9

focus on services

Between work, home and social life, many people find it hard to schedule time to see their doctors, especially when they feel healthy. Illness, however, can be present even without signs or symptoms. It is important for both men and women to get routine screenings in order to prevent or catch health problems early.

Consider these during your next doctor’s appointment

Screenings for MenThere are several screenings men should undergo at various times in their lives. Here is a list of them:

• Physical exams. Men of all ages should see their doctors for physical exams every two years to discuss and examine current health and any new health-related issues. At age 50, men should get physical exams annually.

• Blood pressure. Men between the ages of 18 and 64 should have their blood pressure checked every two years, and men 65 and older should have it checked every year. If blood pressure is high (the top num-ber between 120–139 or bottom number between 80–89), men should get it checked annually regardless of age.

• Cholesterol. Men ages 45 and older should have their cholesterol screened every five years. Younger men should be screened if they are at risk for heart disease.

• Diabetes. Men ages 34 and older should be tested for diabetes every three years. Men who have high blood pressure or who are overweight should be tested earlier.

• Colon cancer. Men under the age of 50 should be screened for colon cancer only if they have strong family histories of colon cancer or polyps, or have had inflammatory bowel disease or polyps. Men between the ages of 50 and 75 should be screened for colorectal cancer.

• Osteoporosis. Men between the ages of 50 and 70 who have certain risk factors should be screened for osteoporosis.

• Prostate cancer. Men ages 50 and older should talk to their doctors about screening for prostate cancer.

• Lung cancer. Men between the ages of 55 and 80 who have a history of smoking an average of one pack a day for 30 years and still smoke, or have quit within the past 15 years, should be screened for lung cancer at least once.

• Abdominal aortic aneurism. Men between the ages of 65 and 75 who have smoked should be screened for abdomi-nal aortic aneurisms, which are enlargements of the main blood vessel connected to the abdomen, pelvis and legs.

• HIV. Men should be tested for HIV at least once during adulthood. Depending on their medical histories, men should also be routinely tested for infections such as syphilis and chlamydia.

continued


focus on services

[screening] matters

Screenings for WomenThere are several screenings women should undergo at various times in their lives. Here is a rundown:

• Physical exams. Women of all ages should see their doctors for physical exams every two years to discuss and examine current health and any new health-related issues. At age 50, women should get physical exams annually.

• Blood pressure. Women between the ages of 18 and 64 should have their blood pressure checked every two years, and women 65 and older should have it checked every year. If blood pressure is high (the top number between 120–139 or bottom number between 80–89), women should get it checked annually regardless of age.

• Cholesterol. Women ages 45 and older should have their cholesterol screened every three to five years. Younger women should be screened if they are at risk for heart disease.

• Diabetes. Women ages 45 and older should be tested for diabetes every three years. Women who have high blood pressure or who are overweight should be tested earlier.

• Colon cancer. Women under the age of 50 should be screened for colon cancer only if they have strong family histories of colon cancer or polyps, or have had inflammatory bowel disease or polyps. Women between the ages of 50 and 75 should be screened for colorectal cancer.

• Mammograms. Women over the age of 40 should have a mammogram every one or two years. Women over the age of 75 normally do not need them, unless otherwise noted by their doctors.

• Osteoporosis. Postmenopausal women, typically ages 65 and older, should be screened for osteoporosis every two years.

• Lung cancer. Women between the ages of 55 and 80 who have a history of smoking an average of one pack a day for 30 years, and still smoke or have quit within the past 15 years, should be screened for lung cancer at least once.

• Pelvic exams and Pap smears. Women ages 21 and older should have a Pap smear every three years. Women ages 30 and older who have normal Pap smears and HPV tests can get one every five years. Women ages 65 and older can stop getting Pap smears as long as their last few tests were normal. Young women and those who are at high risk for infectious disease such as chlamydia should consider being screened during their annual pelvic exams.

• HIV. Women should be tested for HIV at least once during adulthood.

Talk to Your DoctorThe best way for men and women to know what screenings they need and when to get them is to talk to their doctors. Regular physicians will understand their patients’ medical histories and daily lives, and can offer advice on how to stay healthy.

[GI] mattersfocus on services

augustahealth.com 11

New surgeon brings more colorectal expertise to Augusta Health

Issues related to the diges-tive system can range from annoying to life-threaten-ing. Fortunately, Augusta Health can help patients address those challenges,

no matter how serious they might be.

Recently, the hospital brought on a new resource for colorec-tal health. Kristin Turza, MD, is a surgeon who performs a wide spectrum of colorectal procedures, including minimally invasive colon and rectal sur-gery for cancers, inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and severe functional bowel disorders; sacral nerve stimulator for fecal incon-tinence; and transanal minimally invasive surgery for rectal tumors. (See sidebar for full list.)

Dr. Turza joined Augusta Health in September. She completed her surgical residency at the University of Virginia Health System and did postdoctoral

Treatment OptionsKristin Turza, MD, diagnoses and treats structural and functional diseases of the colon, rectum, anal canal and perianal area. Con-ditions and operations include:

• Hereditary colon and rectal cancers

• Sacral nerve stimulation for fecal incontinence

• Inflammatory bowel disease

• Diverticular disease

• Severe functional bowel disorders

• Rectal prolapse

• Anal cancer

• Perianal lesions

• Anal fissure

• Hemorrhoids

• Anorectal fistula surgery

• Pilonidal disease

Dr. Turza also performs general surgery, including biliary, breast and hernia operations.

research at MD Ander-son Cancer Center in Houston, followed by a fellowship in colon and rectal surgery at the University of Tennessee Health Science Center.

In addition to offering new procedures, she is hoping to help patients recover more rapidly, physically and emotion-ally, following surgery.

She’s particularly eager to help implement stream-lined protocols for enhanced recovery after surgery (ERAS). “ERAS uses evidence-based adjust-ments in care before, during and after surgery to improve patient satisfaction and help patients leave the hospital sooner,” she says. “It is a team effort involving the patients themselves, the surgeon, anesthesia, nursing, physical therapy and pharmacy. Components include pain control with different non-sedating medications, and early return to eat-ing and walking following the operation.”

Augusta Health has a reputation for being able to cre-ate team-based approaches to care, which Dr. Turza feels leads to great outcomes. And enhanced recovery protocols are a natural fit in such an environment.

“I’m pleased to join the community at Augusta Health,” she says, “and I look forward to offering patients the latest comprehensive diagnostic and therapeutic colorectal care close to home.”

Stomach

Kristin Turza, MD

Solutions

Cellvizio generates optical biopsies that allow doctors to see microscopic images of tissue instantaneously. By contrast, traditional biopsies typically take anywhere from two to seven days.

“It allows the physician to see tissue in real time, potentially diagnose cancer in real time or rule out cancer in real time,” Hedrick says.

The BenefitsCellvizio allows doctors to make more informed treatment decisions and better manage recur-rent diseases. Dr. Gonzalez mainly uses Cellvizio to look at peripheral lung nodules, which can be a sign of cancer or other lung conditions. However, Cellvizio can also be used to diagnose

pancreatic cysts, inflam-matory bowel diseases, colon cancer, esophageal cancer and lesions on the urinary tract.

Cellvizio has myriad benefits, such as being minimally invasive and providing nearly instantaneous results. According to Hedrick, the main benefit for

patients is, “potentially being told on the spot they don’t have cancer.”

Augusta Health Pulmonology pioneers innova-tive microscope to better detect and diagnose lung cancer

For more information on this breakthrough technology, visit maunakeatech.com.

Leading the Way

Cellvizio is minimally inva-sive and provides nearly instantaneous results.

Augusta Health Pulmonology’s C. Laura Gonzalez, MD, has been using a cutting-edge technology, Cellvizio, to help detect lung cancer and other pulmonary conditions earlier and faster.

Dr. Gonzalez is the first doctor in the state of Virginia to use Cell-vizio for pulmonary purposes, according to David Hedrick, clinical program manager for Mauna Kea Technologies, the company that makes Cellvizio.

“There are a lot of gastro-intestinal applications, but Dr. Gonzalez is the first to get [Cellvizio] strictly for pulmon-ology,” he says.

How It WorksCellvizio, which has been on the U.S. market for eight years, is a miniature microscope that allows doctors to see tissue at the cellular level in real time.

Doctors use Cellvizio during bronchoscopies (procedures to look inside the airways) and endoscopies (procedures to look inside the digestive tract). First, the doctor identifies his or her area of interest during a procedure. Next, he or she inserts a Cellvizio microprobe into the channel of the bronchoscope or endoscope. Then, the microprobe appears on the screen and a Cellvizio video is displayed in real time.


[lung] mattersfocus on services

Augusta Health Cancer Center and Duke Medicine: Working Together for Quality CareAugusta Health is a program affiliate in medical oncology with Duke Medicine. This affiliation provides the following:

• Collaboration with nationally recognized cancer experts. Duke is an NCI Comprehensive Cancer Center.

• Access to new cancer treatments and research, clinical trials and genetic counseling and testing.

• Assurance of high-quality care with Duke protocols and standards of care.

• Multidisciplinary Care Review and continuing education for physicians, nurses, technicians and pharmacists.

• Expert care, close to home, in our community.

Learn more about the collaboration between Augusta Health and Duke Medicine at augustahealth.com/cancer-center.

Christine Pilson (left), with trainer Sharon Spalding, has returned to a regular strength training routine after treatment for breast cancer.

The training has made her feel stronger and more energized.


[cancer] matters

T hese days, Christine Pilson doesn’t get upset as often as she once did, and she worries less, too. Among all the effects of breast cancer, her altered mind-set is the by-product she least anticipated.

“It gives you a totally different view on life, coming out on the other side of treatment,” she says. “I feel like I know what’s most important to me now, and I don’t get bothered about all the other things.”

Pilson was first diagnosed in April 2014. The 47-year-old art teacher at Wilson Elementary School had a regular screening, which showed sev-eral tumors in her right breast that were too small to be felt from the outside. In early August, she had a mastectomy, followed by two rounds of chemo-therapy and 30 days of radiation.

The treatments sapped her energy, a common side effect of chemo, but Pilson joined Augusta Health’s Strength After Breast Cancer program and Cancer RxEx program and saw changes almost imme-diately. As a former college athlete, she’d been enthusiastic about strength training but had let her weights gather dust as she got married, raised a family and became a teacher. Now, it was time to clean them off and start fresh.

“With guidance and training from Augusta Health, I felt much better and happier,” says Pilson. “I have more energy, and that just changes everything. It has a ripple effect. My stress levels are down, I feel stronger, and I’m able to be on my feet all day at school.”

Her training now focuses on bone strength and balance, and when her Cancer RxEx training comes to a close, she plans to join the fit-ness center to keep the effects going. In terms of her prognosis, the news is good, and she’s undergoing genetic testing to find out about other potential risks.

“I’m not afraid of the cancer returning, but I want to be prepared in case it does,” she says. “That means being strong and living my life to the fullest every day. Augusta Health has helped me do that; they’ve been so supportive and terrific. After this experience, I feel nothing but thankful.”

Reduce Your RisksBreast cancer is the second most common type of cancer in Ameri-can women, after skin cancer. Although there are some factors that can’t be controlled — such as genetics and age — you can help to protect yourself with some healthy lifestyle habits:

• Limit alcohol: The more you drink, the greater your risk of devel-oping breast cancer.

• Don’t smoke: More studies are finding links between smoking and breast cancer risk, especially for premenopausal women.

Learn about prevention and treatment options from Augusta Health

breast cancer


focus on services

Learn more about Augusta Health’s Cancer Center at augustahealth.

com/cancer-center.

• Maintain a healthy weight: Being overweight or obese increases breast cancer risk, particularly after menopause.

• Exercise: Physical activity can help your overall wellness and weight, decrease stress, and lessen sleep issues, which all aid in cancer prevention.

• Breast-feed your babies: Studies have found an association between breast cancer prevention and breast-feeding.

• Limit hormone therapy duration: Combination hormone therapy that’s taken for more than three years can increase breast cancer risk. If you’re taking this type of therapy, talk to your doctor about your long-term options.

• Eat healthy: Increasing fruit and vegetable intake hasn’t been shown to directly reduce breast cancer risk, but it does assist in arriving at a healthy weight, which is key for prevention.

When Should I Get Screened?The American Cancer Society recommends that women begin undergoing annual mammography for breast cancer screening at age 40, with a clinical breast exam about every three years for women in their 20s and 30s.

But there are some factors that may increase the frequency of their screenings, or prompt additional tests:

• Family history

• Dense breasts

• Higher genetic risk (determined by genetic testing)

• Previous history of breast cancer or benign tumors

Talk with your doctor about what type of screening schedule and options are right for you.

Screening Spotlight: Digital MammographyUntil recently, mammograms were based on low-dose X-rays that showed results on traditional film, but now, digital mammography makes it easier to see smaller tumors and detect more abnormalities.

The method for this type of screening is similar to film-based mammography: a breast is placed between two plates, and is compressed so that an image can be captured from all angles. Using a digital system gives a number of benefits:

• Faster follow-up: Files can be instantly sent electronically to physicians or radiologists for more analysis, rather than waiting for film development.

• Automated analysis: Mammogram results are scanned by computers as well as radiologists, offering more insight and scrutiny.

• Better images: Because they’re digital, images can be manipulated so a radiologist can look closer at certain areas, which isn’t possible with film-based mammography.

• Lower radiation dosage: Digital mammograms use about 25 percent less radiation, even though they capture more views of breast tissue.

Augusta Health uses digital mammography as a diagnostic tool to give patients the most advanced options available for breast cancer screening.


[foundation] matters

The Shenandoah House Tennis Tournament brings players together and helps the Gifted Care program

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The Shenandoah House Tennis Tournament was held Oct. 1–4 at Augusta Health Lifetime Fitness. Gifts will be used to provide end-of-life care to patients unable to pay for care at Shenandoah House. If you’d

like to make a gift, visit augustahealth.com/Foundation, call (540) 332-5174 or email [email protected].

“My family’s connection to Hospice of the Shenandoah is deep and goes way back,” Coffman says. “We’ve always been very supportive of their efforts and appreciative of everything they do in the community, so it makes me happy to see how popular this tournament has become.”

“This has been such a great way to spotlight the Shenandoah House Gifted Care program,” Augusta Health Foundation Director Tami Radecke says. “The fundraiser put together by Bev is growing every year, and she’s been phenomenal in arranging it. We’re so grateful to her and the community for their ongoing support.”

“The fundraiser put together by Beverley is growing every year, and she’s been phenomenal in arranging it.”

Tami Radecke

focus on services

Beverley Coffman has organized the

Shenandoah House Tennis Tournament

(SHouT), which ben-efits the Gifted Care

program, for the past nine years.

Over the past eight years, the tournament has raised $30,000 to support the Gifted Care program.

When Beverley Coffman plays ten-nis, she sets out to win — but it’s not always for herself.

For the past nine years, Coff-man and other volunteers put together an annual event, the

Shenandoah House Tennis Tournament (SHouT), which brings together tennis enthusiasts from across the valley for a good cause. Ranging in age from high schoolers to 80-year-olds, participants can play in one of four divisions at the Augusta Health Lifetime Fitness center’s outdoor courts.

Coffman has extensive experience in organizing tennis fund-raising events. For 25 years, she helped the local tennis association, Staunton Waynesboro Augusta Tennis, hold an annual event for the American Cancer Society. But the more involved she became with the Shenan-doah House, the more inclined she became to switch the event’s recipient to the Shenandoah House’s Gifted Care program.

The program provides compassionate, quality, end-of-life care for all patients, regardless of their ability to pay. SHouT participants can either play in the tournament in honor or in memory of a loved one, or make a donation to support the Gifted Care program. Over the past eight years, the tournament has raised $30,000 to support the Gifted Care program.

Sense of HistoryThe tennis tournament is far from Coffman’s only contribution to the Shenandoah House.

Following in her father’s footsteps, she joined the Hospice of the Shenandoah board in 2007. One of her six brothers had been in hospice in 1998, and another brother started the first hospice in Mexico after working on designing the landscaping at Shenandoah House. Coffman’s nephew was the one who suggested the name for Camp Dragonfly, the annual bereavement camp for children and youth.


[infection control] matters

Avoiding unnecessary antibiotic use can stop this dangerous infection from spreading

Augusta Health has struggled, along with the rest of the country, to manage the steady rise of C. diff (Clostridium difficile) cases, according to Allison Baroco, MD, an infectious diseases physician at Augusta Health. Thanks to the hospital’s early recognition of this problem, it has collaborated with area nursing facilities and providers in

an attempt to decrease the burden of this disease on the community, Dr. Baroco says.

C. diff is an infection that most commonly occurs after antibiotic use. Overgrowth of C. diff bacte-ria can lead to a severe illness whose hallmark symptom is watery diarrhea. By following various preventive measures and staying informed, the Augusta Health community can work together to decrease the risk of C. diff, Dr. Baroco notes.

Symptoms and Treatment More than a half million people get sick from C. diff each year, according to the Mayo Clinic.

preventing C. diff

focus on services


In recent years, C. diff infec-tions have become more frequent, severe and difficult to treat.

C. difficile bacteria are found throughout the environment. They are passed in feces and spread to food, surfaces and objects when people who are infected don’t wash their hands thoroughly.

The most notable symptom of C. diff is watery diar-rhea that has a very distinct, foul-smelling odor. In more serious cases, people can have other troubling symptoms. “In the more severe forms, some people get fever, cramping, abdomi-nal pain and nausea,” says Dr. Baroco, who adds that symptoms vary with each person. “It does effect some people much more severely than others.”

Once a person recognizes the symptoms of C. diff and receives a diagnosis through a stool test, he or she can begin treatment. C. diff is treated with antibi-otics, such as Flagyl or oral Vancomycin, which aren’t systemically absorbed and stay in the gut.

In addition, patients may be encouraged to take probiotics. Yogurt contains live bacteria, which can help bring the amount of good bacteria in the gut back to normal. Also, after any diarrheal illness, patients should remember to drink lots of fluids to stay hydrated.

Causes and Preventive MeasuresWhile there are a handful of risk factors for C. diff, the primary risk factor is antibiotic use. The antibiotics that most often lead to C. diff infections include fluoroquinolones, cephalosporins, clindamycin and penicillins, accord-ing to the Mayo Clinic. “People who receive antibiotics, have a compromised immune system or are in a hospital environment have a risk of having over-growth of the [C. diff] bacteria,” says Dr. Baroco. Antibiotics kill the good bacteria

Curbing the Spread of C. diff If someone you know has C. diff, you recently visited a hospital or you are taking antibiotics, there are several steps you can take to remain healthy and keep C. diff bacteria at bay.

1. Use soap and water, not hand sanitizer: According to Allison Baroco, MD, people at risk for C.diff should wash their hands with soap and water instead of using an alcohol-based sanitizer. While sanitizers kill bacteria such as Salmonella, they don’t kill the C. diff bacteria.

2. Make it hot: Wash all linens with hot water and detergent to kill the C. diff bacteria.

3. Bleach is your friend: Make a diluted bleach product by mixing Clorox with water and use this product to clean all household surfaces and frequently used items to kill C. diff bacteria.

C. diff is an infection that most commonly occurs after antibiotic use.

Allison Baroco, MD

preventing C. diffcontinued


focus on services[infection control] matters

Learn more about Allison Baroco, MD, and Augusta Health Infectious

Disease. Visit augustahealth.com/amg/infectious-disease.

C. diff Symptoms Be on the lookout for these symp-toms during or after antibiotic use:

1. Watery diarrhea three or more times a day for several days

2. Foul-smelling stools with a distinct odor

3. Fever

4. Nausea

5. Abdominal pain or cramping

6. Blood or pus in the stool

7. Loss of appetite

in one’s gut and can lead to an overgrowth of bad bacteria, also known as C. diff, which produces a toxin that leads to the illness.

While C. diff typically occurs during or immedi-ately after antibiotic use, Dr. Baroco says some people are still at risk for developing the infection within the first three to six months of being on an antibiotic. Occasionally, the hospital sees immu-nocompromised hosts develop C. diff without any recent antibiotic exposure.

The No. 1 way to prevent C. diff is to take anti-biotics with discretion and avoid unnecessary antibiotic use. “People should consider taking antibiotics cautiously and be careful when they’re thinking of taking an antibiotic ‘just in case,’ even though their doctors are fairly certain they have a virus,” says Dr. Baroco. “It’s very important to recognize that there are risks of ‘just in case’ antibiotics.”

People who have to take antibiotics can reduce their risk of C. diff by eating yogurt, which has live bacteria, says Dr. Baroco. When caught early, C. diff can usually be treated quickly and effec-tively, though unfortunately 20 percent of people will experience a relapse. Dr. Baroco says there is a higher risk for severe complications in cases that are more severe and aren’t caught early enough. So be on the lookout for symptoms and head to the doctor early if you notice any of them — especially after antibiotic use.

“It’s very important to recognize that there are risks of ‘just in case’ antibiotics.”

Allison Baroco, MD

People who have to take antibiotics can reduce their risk of C. diff by eating yogurt, which has live bacteria.

[joint] mattersfocus on services

Find out more about the Joint Center at augustahealth.com/joint-center.

Local nurseryman and radio show host returns to work just weeks after a total hip replacement

After decades of digging up plants, trees, flowers and shrubs, Andre Viette, host of the Saturday morning radio show “In the Garden with Andre Viette,” needed a total hip replacement. This past July, he decided to have his surgery done

with Thomas Pereles, MD, at Augusta Health.

“The pain I had before the surgery was in the ankles, the calf, the thigh, the knee and the hip,” says Viette.

“And after the surgery, I don’t have any pain.”

Viette went home just two days after his total hip replacement. According to Joint Center Program Coordinator Beth Joyce, around 80 percent of patients at the Augusta Health Joint Center go home two days after their surgery and directly into outpatient care, not a skilled nursing home.

“They get their independence back and they’re pain-free,” she says. “And by going home, they feel like they’re back to normal.”

Just one week after surgery, Viette stopped taking all pain medication, except for Tylenol on occa-sion. Two weeks after his surgery, Viette was able to travel and host an annual garden symposium at The Omni Homestead Resort.

“This is our 17th year [at the symposium] and I was able to do it all,” he says. “Even with my hip, I did not use the walker; I did not use a cane.”

According to Joyce, part of Viette’s success came from his positive, optimistic attitude.

“Andre came in here knowing he needed the surgery, wanting the surgery done and wanting to get back to his life,” she says. “He wanted to be pain-free and get back into the garden. He came in with the right attitude. Attitude is 99.9 percent of what your outcome is going to be.”

While Viette believes the pre-op and post-op classes at the Joint Center helped him get back to normal after surgery, the kind demeanor of everyone at the center also helped a great deal.

“From the person who brings you food and the per-son who takes your blood to the person who brings your medication, everybody is very, very nice,” he says.

Find out more about the Joint Center at augustahealth.com/joint-center.

Live From the


nutrition and fitness


Beat the Holiday BluesConsider these ideas if you encounter sadness or low moods around the holidays.

Drink waterWater suppresses the appetite, reduces toxins and makes you feel healthy. So why not indulge? Drink eight 8 oz. glasses of fluid every day.

Take mental breaksThe holidays can be overwhelming and overstimulating. Enjoying some time for mental wellness, such as doing yoga or going on long walks, can make you feel rejuvenated — and less fatigued.

ExerciseNothing can boost your mood like a good workout. Take an exercise class at Augusta Health’s Lifetime Fitness, ride your bike (if weather permits) or join in a group sport. It may be just what you need to battle the blahs.

Stay away from alcohol It’s easy to overindulge around the holidays. But

alcohol is a depressant, so drinking it may just exacerbate your anxiety or depression.

Meditating helps to quiet the mind.Start a morning ritual of meditating for

5 minutes.

You’ll notice a difference.


Five ways to lift our spirits and reduce holiday fatigue

The holidays, with their abundant food, gifts and parties, are a much-anticipated time of year. Many people, though, cringe at the thought of fighting crowds at the mall, don’t particularly like large gatherings, and experience bouts of depression and sadness during this period. If you find the holidays overtaxing, you are certainly not alone. Here are some ways to trim some of the stress off the season:

HolidayStress

Busters1. Less is more.

To-do lists in the month of December can begin to look like

Santa’s voluminous scroll. Some advice? Prioritize. Do the tasks that need to be done;

eliminate the rest. You’ll be giving yourself extra time and helping shore up your emotional well-being.

2. Eat well. It’s too easy to let our diets lapse from November through December when sweet, salty and high-fat foods overflow from office kitchens and holiday parties. But if you’re prone to sadness, depression or sinking spirits during these dark days of the year, it’s actually important to stick to good eating habits. Good nutrition helps our minds and bodies feel better. If you have a weakness for rich foods around the holidays, here are some healthy substitutes to consider:

• Order the sherbet instead of the ice cream — and top it with fruit. If you still crave ice cream, eat the low-fat kind and sprinkle it with granola.

• We all love cookies. Oatmeal-raisin, vanilla wafers or ginger snaps are healthier varieties.

• If salty foods are your indulgence, try popcorn or pretzels dipped in mustard.

3. Don’t forget about your mental health. Yes, the holiday season is about giving to others. But that doesn’t mean you should neglect yourself. Make sure you have enough personal time to maintain balance in your life. Take time out to read a book, tend to your knitting project or engage in another task that quiets the mind. Often, with all the stimulation surrounding the holidays, it helps to slow down and focus on just being.

4. Work it out. Sometimes, the best way to combat holi-day stress is to move. Exercise stimulates endorphin production. Endorphins are chemicals in our bodies that lower feelings of depression and make us feel good. The next time you get stressed out, instead of reaching for that bag of potato chips, throw on an old T-shirt and hit the treadmill.

5. Laughter can be the best medicine. No matter how stressful the holidays become, it helps to put it all in per-spective. Taking time to talk with a close friend or family member and share a few chuckles can be best way to endure a rough period. Laugher is actually physically good for us. When we laugh, there is a decrease in stress hormones (cortisol, adrenaline and dopac), and an increase in endor-phins (see above) and human growth hormone (which helps protect us against disease and infection).

Make sure you have enough personal time to maintain balance in your life.

As a healthy dessert option, top

low-fat ice cream or sherbet with granola and fruit.


Yield 10 servings

Calories 178

Total fat 6 g

Saturated fat 1 g

Cholesterol 22 mg

Sodium 94 mg

Potassium 132 mg

Carbohydrates 27 g

Total fiber 1 g

Protein 4 g

Good-For-You CornbreadRecipeIngredients1 cup cornmeal

1 cup flour

¼ cup sugar

1 tsp baking powder

1 cup low-fat (1 percent) buttermilk

1 large egg

¼ cup soft tub margarine

1 tsp vegetable oil (to grease baking pan)

Directions1. Preheat oven to 350˚F.

2. Mix together cornmeal, flour, sugar and baking powder.

3. In another bowl, combine buttermilk and egg. Beat lightly.

4. Slowly add buttermilk and egg mixture to dry ingredients.

5. Add margarine and mix by hand or with mixer for one minute.

6. Bake for 20–25 minutes in an 8- by 8-inch, greased baking dish. Cool. Cut into 10 squares.

Joint Center

We have Top rated surgeons

Joint Replacement Surgery

540-337-5047 • 540-932-5047 • www.augustahealth.com

in the valley.

You don’t have to travel for your

right here

happenings


AUGUSTA HEALTH LIFETIME FITNESS GROUP CLASSES AND PROGRAMS

Non-members may purchase a 10-class pass for $100. Classes run on an ongoing basis. Other classes not listed here can be found on our website at augustahealth.com/lifetime- fitness. For more informa-tion, call Heather Moneymaker, group fitness coordinator at Lifetime Fitness, at (540) 332-5571.

Yoga ClassesBasic: Mondays, 5:30 p.m.; Tuesdays, 9 a.m.; Thursdays, 9 a.m.; Saturdays, 9:15 a.m. Multi-Level Yoga: Wednesdays, 9:15 a.m.; Thursdays, 5:30 p.m.

Tai ChiCancer Recovery: Tuesdays, 6:45 p.m. Free to cancer recovery patients; spon-sored by Augusta Health Cancer Center. Arthritis and Diabetes: Tuesdays, 11:15 a.m. Beginner: Wednesdays, 11 a.m. Intermediate: Thursdays, 11:15 a.m. Advanced: Tuesdays, 7:30 p.m.

Chi KungIntermediate: Tuesdays, 10:15 a.m. Advanced: Thursdays, 10:15 a.m.

Les Mills Body CombatWhen: Tuesdays, 4:30 p.m.; Thursdays, 5:30 p.m.; Saturdays, 9 a.m. See schedule, which can be found at augusta health.com/lifetime- fitness, for exact dates.

Martial ArtsExtra fee, class passes excluded. Beginner: Mondays, Wednesdays, 7–8 p.m. Intermediate: Mondays, Wednesdays, 8–9 p.m. Cost: $55 a month for members, $85 for non-members

Aquatic ClassesAqua Power: Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, 7:45 a.m.; Tuesdays, 9 a.m.; Mondays, 4:45 p.m. (Fitness Pool) Aqua Express: Thursdays, 4:45 p.m. Deep Water Conditioning: Mondays and Thursdays, 9 a.m. (Fitness Pool) Aqua Boot Camp: Mondays, 5:45 p.m.; Tuesdays, 7:45 a.m. (Fitness Pool)

Therapeutic/Rehabilitative Aqua ClassesAqua Lite: Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays, Fridays, 9 a.m., 10 a.m.; Wednesdays, 4:45 p.m.(Therapy Pool) Range of Motion (ROM): Mondays, Fridays, 11 a.m. (Therapy Pool)

Zumba DanceWhen: Mondays, 9:15 a.m.; Tuesdays, 3:45 p.m.; Wednesdays, 5:30 p.m.; Thurs-days, 3:45 p.m.; alternating Fridays, 9 a.m.

TRX Suspension Small Group Training ClassWhen: Tuesdays — Intermediate/Advanced, 6 a.m.; Wednesdays — Intermediate, 12:15 p.m., Beginner/Intermediate, 5:30 p.m.; Fridays — Intermediate, 12:15 p.m. Information: Call Heather Moneymaker at (540) 332-5571 or email her at hmoney [email protected]. More classes may be available.

PILOXINGWhat: PILOXING is a high-energy blend of boxing, Pilates and dance. Guaranteed to help spice up your workout! When: Alternate Friday mornings, 9 a.m.

Saturday SamplerWhat: A great chance to try a variety of classes all at one time. This class com-bines multiple class formats with multiple instructors to create an energy packed hour-and-a-half workout! Can’t stay for it all? Don’t worry. You can come and go as needed. When: First Saturday of each month, 9–10:30 a.m.

Lipid Panel ScreeningsWhat: Total cholesterol, HDL, LDL, TC/HDL ratio, triglyceride and glucose levels are tested. Results can be kept on file and sent to your physician. This is a great tool to monitor your health! Cost: $25 for members, $30 for non-mem-bers Information and reservations: Call Angela Kaltenborn, medical fitness coordina-tor, at (540) 332-5527, or email her at akaltenborn@augusta health.com.

RxEX Program — now available on land or in the water! What: This monitored medical exercise program offered at Lifetime Fitness is by physician referral only. It is an eight-week exercise program with pre- and post-course health evaluations. Participants will exercise twice a week with staff and have access to Lifetime Fitness throughout the eight weeks. Outcome measurements will be sent to the referring physician upon completion of the program. Cost: $64 for the RxEX Medical Program Information: Call Angela Kaltenborn, medi-cal fitness coordinator, at (540) 332-5527, or email her at akaltenborn@augusta health.com.

RxEX Cancer Program What: This monitored medical exercise program offered at Lifetime Fitness is for members of the community who have had or currently have cancer. The program is designed to improve a person’s stamina, strength and fitness through monitored exercise. Participants will meet with a certi-fied cancer specialist twice a week to be assisted with an individual workout routine. Program outcomes will be sent to the refer-ring physician. Cost: Please call Membership Services at Lifetime Fitness at (540) 332-5843. Information: Call Angela Kaltenborn, medi-cal fitness coordinator, at (540) 332-5527, or email her at akaltenborn@augusta health.com.

classes, groups and events at Augusta Health


RxEX Prehab Program What: This monitored medical exercise program offered at Lifetime Fitness is for members of the community who are scheduled for joint replacement surgery. The program is specifically designed to strengthen the joint during the few weeks prior to surgery. Participants will meet with an exercise specialist twice a week and work out in a small group setting of three participants. Program outcomes will be sent to the referring physician. Cost: $64 for the RxEX Prehab Program Information: Call Angela Kaltenborn, medi-cal fitness coordinator, at (540) 332-5527, or email her at akalten born@augusta health.com.

RxEX Youth Program What: This monitored medical exercise pro-gram offered at Lifetime Fitness is for youth in the community 8–12 years old. The program is designed to improve your child’s fitness and wellness through monitored exercise and age-appropriate nutrition. Youth will meet with an exercise specialist twice a week and work out in a small group setting of three participants. Nutrition classes will focus on increasing awareness about food choices, portion sizes and healthier options. All participants are eligible to take part in Fun Friday, an aquatic hour of fun in the pool. Program outcomes will be sent to the referring physician. Cost: $99 for the RxEX Youth Program Information: Call Angela Kaltenborn, medi-cal fitness coordinator, at (540) 332-5527, or email her at akaltenborn@augusta health.com.

NUTRITION SERVICES AT LIFETIME FITNESS

Augusta Health Lifetime Fitness is proud to offer a registered dietitian for individualized nutrition counseling. Packages and prices are listed below and can be scheduled directly with the registered dietitian.

Energize PackageWhat: If you’re only exercising to help

shed the pounds, you’re missing half the picture. Partner with the dietitian to learn

how modifying your diet can help you reach a healthier weight. The program includes personalized nutrition advice, dietary intake analysis and body-fat measurements. Pack-age consists of one 60-minute initial consult with the registered dietitian as well as three 30-minute follow-ups. Cost: $150 for members, $175 for non-members Information: Contact Julia Kearns, reg-istered dietitian, at (540) 221-7894, or email her at [email protected].

Lifestyle PackageWhat: This package is designed for nutri-tion newcomers. If you’re looking to begin a healthy eating program, start here. The sessions cover topics including basic nutri-tion and you, label reading, planning and prep, and special-occasion eating. Package consists of one 60-minute initial consult with the registered dietitian as well as three 30-minute follow-ups. Cost: $150 for members, $175 for non-members Information: Contact Julia Kearns, reg-istered dietitian, at (540) 221-7894, or email her at [email protected].

Prescription PackageWhat: Do you have diabetes, heart disease, high blood pressure or another chronic condition? Learn how to improve your well-being through the foods you eat. There is no physician referral needed! You will receive personalized nutrition advice and an individualized dietary intake analysis. Package consists of one 60-minute initial consult with the registered dietitian as well as three 30-minute follow-ups. Cost: $150 for members, $175 for non-members Information: Contact Julia Kearns, reg-istered dietitian, at (540) 221-7894, or email her at [email protected].

60 for 60What: This is a one-time, one-hour session to discuss your dietary needs. Members get 60 minutes with the dietitian for only $60. (A slightly higher fee applies to non-members.) Appointment includes a three-day food recall review, instruction on your calorie needs, Q&A time and materials to take home.

Cost: $60 (members) $75 (non-members) Information: Contact Julia Kearns, reg-istered dietitian, at (540) 221-7894, or email her at [email protected].

Nutrition Tune-UpWhat: This program is designed for clients who have previously completed any nutri-tion package or corporate program. The tune-up provides further guidance and accountability based upon your goals. The program includes three 30-minute follow-up sessions and additional goal setting. Cost: $90 for members, $100 for non-members Information: Contact Julia Kearns, reg-istered dietitian, at (540) 221-7894, or email her at jkearns@augusta health.com.

AUGUSTA HEALTH LIFETIME FITNESS TENNIS PROGRAM SCHEDULE†

Adults 1*2*3* TennisWhat: Learn how to play, improve skills and practice. Ages 18 and older. When: Thursdays, 6–7:30 p.m. Cost: $76.50

Adult Cardio TennisWhat: This “workout” tennis program is sure to leave you energized. Ages 18 and older. When: Mondays, 6:15–7:15 p.m.; Wednesdays, 10:15–11:15 a.m. Cost: $60

Munchkin TennisWhat: Ages 10 and under, tennis format. Beginner, ages 4–6. When: Saturdays, 9–9:45 a.m. Cost: $57.50

Future StarsWhat: Ages 10 and under, tennis format. Beginner and intermediate, ages 7–10. When: Saturdays, 9:45–11 a.m. Cost: $95.62

Rising StarsWhat: Learn to play through competitive drills and games. Beginner and intermedi-ate, ages 11–17. When: Saturdays, 11 a.m.–12:15 p.m. Cost: $95.62

continued


happenings classes, groups and events at Augusta Health

AcesWhat: Advanced and competitive, ages 12–17. When: Saturdays, 12:15–1:45 p.m. Cost: $114.75

Circuit AcesWhat: Advanced and competitive, ages 12–17. When: Tuesdays and Thursdays, 4:30–6 p.m. Cost: $229.50

† Times and fees for tennis classes and programs are subject to change. For more information, call Chad Reed, tennis coordinator/pro, at (540) 332-5280 or email creed@augusta health.com.

Heart to Heart — Support GroupWhat: If someone you love has died and you’d like the “heart-to-heart” support of others who have also lost someone, we invite you to attend our support group. We understand this is a very difficult time in your life. Talking and sharing with others going through a similar experience can provide tremendous support and be extremely helpful in learning how to cope and live with your grief. Support groups are open to the community and provided free of charge. When: New groups begin throughout the year. Where: Augusta Health Community Care Building Information: To find out starting dates and to learn more, contact Debbie Brown, bereavement coordinator, Hospice of the Shenandoah, at (540) 932-4911 or at dbrown@augusta health.com.

Ostomy Support GroupWhat: In this group meeting, you’ll share ideas and improve your quality of life after ostomy surgery. When: Second Monday of every other month, 6–8 p.m. Where: Augusta Health Community Care Building, Room 3 Information: Call (540) 332-4346 for details.

COMMUNITY OUTREACH AND EDUCATION

Gain Independence From Tobacco (GIFT): Begin Your Journey to Stop Smoking/Stop Using Smokeless TobaccoWhat: To quit tobacco, you must first exam-ine how and why you use tobacco. Then, you can create an individual quit plan. The GIFT program is provided by a Certified Tobacco Treatment Specialist. Evidence-based guidelines and recommendations are given on an individual basis. Don’t let fear keep you from quitting. Information: The next class begins Monday, Jan. 11, from 6–7:30 p.m., in the ACC building. Please call (540) 332-4988 for class information. If want to get started

“quitting” before the end of the year, the tobacco treatment specialist does one-on-one consultations.

Family and Friends CPR ClassWhat: This is for those who want to learn CPR but do not need a course completion card for their job. When: Wednesday, Dec. 9, 5:30–7:30 p.m., Augusta Community Care Building Information: The class is free, but the class size is limited. For registration and to learn more, contact Krystal Moyers at (540) 332-4976.

Hospice Volunteer Training — Living At The End Of LifeWhat: Are you interested in becoming a hospice volunteer and making a difference in the lives of others? Come join us for this interactive, four-week course in preparation for your journey. When: Monday and Thursday morning, 9 a.m.–noon. Classes began Sept. 14. Information: There is no fee for this class. To register for this course, please call (540) 332-4909 or visit augusta health.com/hospice.

DIABETES AND NUTRITION CLINICS

Augusta Health Diabetes DayWhat: This day of education is devoted to those with diabetes and those who are interested in finding out more about the condition. When: Friday, Nov 13, 12:30–4 p.m. Where: Augusta Community Care building, rooms 1, 2 and 3 Information: Vendors will be available from 12:30–1 p.m. and 2–2:30 pm. An educational presentation by Jessicah Col-lins, MD, will take place from 1–1:45 p.m., followed by a fitness break with Lynae Maust from 1:45–2 p.m. Kathy Anderson and Mary Scott Miller will present Art to Heart (a stress management session) from 2:30–3:15 p.m. The event concludes with

“Diabetic Deliciousness — Planning and Preparing Healthy Meals,” a presentation by chef Laura Cash and Kara Meeks, from 3:15–4 p.m. If you have any ques-tions, please call (540) 213-2537.

SUPPORT GROUPS

Friends Listening to Friends GroupWhat: For newly diagnosed cancer patients who have fears, questions or concerns. This group also addresses life after can-cer treatments. When: Tuesdays, 11 a.m.–12:15 p.m. Where: Augusta Health Cancer Center Conference Room Information: For more information about any cancer group, call Leigh Anderson at (540) 245-7105.

Shenandoah Valley Stroke ClubWhat: This support group is for those who have suffered a stroke and their family members, care partners and friends. When: First Friday of every month at noon. Information: Call Shelley Payne at (540) 332-4047 or (540) 932-4047.

Celiac Sprue Support GroupWhat: Group meetings feature free samples of gluten-free foods, recipes from support group members, visits from food-service providers and a wealth of practical tips. When: Third Tuesday of every other month, 5–7 p.m. Where: Augusta Health Community Care Building, Rooms 1 and 2 Information: Call Laura Johnson, RD, at (540) 932-5034.


new in town new physicians and health professionals on staff

Cynthia Bailey, CNM Specialty: OB-GYN Augusta Health Care for Women 36 Beam Lane Fishersville, Virginia (540) 213-7750 Staunton (540) 942-7750 Waynesboro

Amrita De Zoysa, MD Specialty: Family Medicine Augusta Health Primary Care, Fishersville 53 South Medical Park Drive Fishersville, Virginia (540) 332-5687 Staunton (540) 932-5687 Waynesboro

Cara Goodell, MD Specialty: Family Medicine Augusta Health Primary Care, Stuarts Draft 2570 Stuarts Draft Highway Stuarts Draft, Virginia (540) 245-7870 Staunton (540) 221-7870 Waynesboro

Leticia Hardy, MD Specialty: Pediatric Hospitalist Augusta Health Pediatric Hospitalists 78 Medical Center Drive Fishersville, Virginia (540) 932-4298

Arrossa Jamshid, MD Specialty: Hospitalist Augusta Health Hospitalists 78 Medical Center Drive Fishersville, Virginia

Deborah Lusk, CRNP Specialty: Family Medicine Augusta Health Family Practice, Churchville 3881 Churchville Ave. Churchville, Virginia (540) 245-7800

continued

This list of new physicians and practitioners at Augusta Health was made possible by Chris Morgenstern, physician liaison at Augusta Health. He can be reached at [email protected] or at (540) 245-7375.


new in town new physicians and health professionals on staff

Galina Lyles, MD Specialty: Hospitalist Augusta Health Hospitalists 78 Medical Center Drive Fishersville, Virginia

Janet Polansky, MD Specialty: Urgent Care Augusta Health Urgent Care 851 Statler Blvd. Staunton, Virginia (540) 245-7470

David Ratliff, MD Specialty: Interventional Radiology Blue Ridge Radiologists, Inc. 401 Commerce Road, Suite 413 Staunton, Virginia (540) 886-0988

Carol Maxwell Thompson, NP Specialty: Urgent Care Augusta Health Urgent Care 851 Statler Blvd. Staunton, Virginia (540) 245-7470

Ruzbeh Toussi, DO Specialty: Pain Management Augusta Health Pain Management Clinic 70 Medical Center Circle, Suite 305 Fishersville, Virginia (540) 332-5747 Staunton (540) 932-5747 Waynesboro

Kristin Turza, MD Specialty: Colorectal Surgery/General Surgery Augusta Surgery 70 Medical Center Drive, Suite 308 Fishersville, Virginia (540) 332-5909 Staunton (540) 932-5909 Waynesboro

celebrating Augusta Health talentday in the life

Because of numerous patients and procedures to keep in mind, physicians may not have time to keep track of new providers, upgrade computer systems or track

down test results that seem delayed. But they can still juggle all those vital tasks, thanks to Chris Morgenstern.

As Augusta Health’s physician liaison, Morgenstern acts as a connection point among all the shifting processes, patients and providers throughout the healthcare system. He acts as a rela-tionship-builder who ensures a higher level of care is always met. If a doctor is unsure of which specialists are avail-able for referrals, or hasn’t heard about newer services developed in another part of the system, Morgenstern helps to deliver such information.

He also brings new providers around the community and to different spe-cialist offices, to create more personal connections with specialists. This helps to strengthen the referral process. Most notably, he’s responsible for the comprehensive and data-heavy physician directory that’s produced annually and used frequently.

Morgenstern joined Augusta Health in June 2014 after working at the Univer-sity of Pittsburgh Medical Center for seven years, in roles that ranged from patient registration to medical coding to administration. When he decided to move to the Shenandoah Valley, an interview at Augusta Health immedi-ately felt like the right fit.

“At Pittsburgh, I’d worked with over 50 providers, so the role of a liaison [at

Augusta Health] was comfortable and attractive to me,” he says. “But more than that, Augusta Health just seemed like a great place to be. It’s a real com-munity, where people truly care about each other. I could see that from the first moment.”

Morgenstern is only the second person to step into the position, so the scope of his tasks is still changing as the pro-gram expands. And that’s part of what he loves about the job. No two days are the same, and he enjoys building and structuring new aspects to his duties. “I learn new things every day, and always look for opportunities to build more relationships and connection points that will benefit the physicians and their patients,” he says. “I look forward to coming in every morning and seeing what the day brings.”

Connection PointPhysician liaison Chris Morgenstern builds stronger relationships.


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US POSTAGE

PAIDAugusta Hospital Corporation

Augusta Hospital Corporation P.O. Box 1000 Fishersville, VA 22939

Call (540) 932-4909 or visit quiltsofcomfort.org

for more information.

Save the Date!Third Annual Quilts of ComfortBenefiting Hospice of the Shenandoah’s Gifted Care Program

Day: Saturday, Nov. 7, 2015Time: 7:30 a.m.–noonLocation: Augusta Expo, Fishersville

Entrance Fees (includes breakfast between 7:30–9:30 a.m.)†:Adults — $15Children age 6–12 — $10Children under age 6 — Free

Registration‡: To register for the event, please visit augustahealth.com/quilts-of-comfort or mail your check to the Foundation at the following address:Augusta Health FoundationAttention: Quilts of ComfortP.O. Box 1000Fishersville, VA 22939

† $5 of each entrance fee will directly support the Gifted Care Program.‡ Quilts of Comfort is still in need of items for the silent auction. Items must be valued at at least $25.

AUG-013

Documents

A Natural - Home | Health Matters | Augusta Healthaugustahealthmatters.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/health_matt… · William L. Pfost, Secretary and Treasurer Charles “Mick”