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LivingHealthy FALL 2015

Inside this Issue:

Surviving Breast Cancer

Simplifying Shoulder Surgery

St. Mary’s County Gives Back

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Kenneth A. Samet, FACHE President and CEO, MedStar Health

Barbara Thompson Chair, Board of Directors, MedStar St. Mary’s Hospital

Christine R. Wray, FACHE President, MedStar St. Mary’s Hospital Senior Vice President, MedStar Health

Holly Bond Meyer Healthy Living Editor

Deborah Gross Healthy Living Writer

Rachel Lytle Healthy Living Writer

Ruby Hawks Healthy Living Designer

Nicki Strickland Healthy Living Designer

Healthy Living is published by MedStar St. Mary’s Hospital. The information is intended to inform and educate about health, not as a substitute for consultation with a physician.

MedStar St. Mary’s Hospital of St. Mary’s County, its Medical Staff and Auxiliary, are non-discriminating in their admission, treatment, employment and membership policies. The hospital employs, offers membership, renders treatment and receives vendor services without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin or ancestry, marital status or status as a qualified disabled individual. Patients receive considerate and respectful care at MedStar St. Mary’s regardless of the source of payment. MedStar St. Mary’s Hospital’s Payment Assistance Program provides free or reduced charges for care to patients who receive inpatient and outpatient services. This program is available for individuals who are not eligible to receive medical assistance from the state and meet specific income requirements. If you are interested in finding out if you qualify for payment assistance, please contact our Credit Office at 301-475-6039.

Christine R. Wray, FACHE President, MedStar St. Mary’s Hospital Senior Vice President, MedStar Health

Letter From the PresidentDear Friends,

This September marks six years since St. Mary’s Hospital joined the MedStar family. Although there were some who questioned whether our hospital could maintain its community focus under the umbrella of a large health-care system, I think most would agree that MedStar St. Mary’s Hospital continues to offer members of our community the quality care they expect and deserve. Because so many of our associates and physicians are residents of the county, they are truly dedicated to ensuring our patients - their friends, families and neighbors — receive top-notch care in a welcoming and safe environment.

Joining MedStar Health has helped bring new technology and resources to our community that otherwise would never have been possible. We have added new doctors and surgeons to our medical staff offering much-needed specialty services to the region without the travel to larger, city hospitals. Despite all of these changes, we have never wavered from our commitment to our community.

This edition of Healthy Living features the story of a young Lexington Park woman who was diagnosed with breast cancer shortly after her 30th birthday. During the past year, she has been treated by a team of healthcare professionals including Patricia Wehner, MD, a member of the MedStar Breast Health Program, who is now seeing patients at the MedStar Women’s Specialty Center in Leonardtown. Dr. Wehner’s presence in St. Mary’s County is an excellent example of how MedStar Health is working to create a Distributive Care Delivery Network (DCDN) throughout the region. This network gives residents of more rural areas easier access to specialized medical care and helps fortify existing medical services already in place.

Healthcare is constantly changing. There are new advancements and technologies uncovered daily and community hospitals must continue to meet the needs of patients which is impossible without the proper resources. MedStar’s DCDN gives our smaller hospital the medical muscle needed to continue to offer excellent, affordable patient care.

Signs may change, names may change but MedStar St. Mary’s Hospital will continue to strive to earn your trust so that we can make health care advancements to meet the needs for all of you, our friends, families and neighbors.

Christine R. Wray President

“In July 2014, I was just doing my normal breast exam and I found a lump,” Keelar said. “June 1 it wasn’t there, July 1 it was. I immediately found a doctor and went and got it examined.”

A long-time resident of D.C., Keelar (pictured right) and her family had moved to Lexington Park, Maryland, several years ago. After finding the lump and consulting a doctor, her life became a whirlwind of tests and consultations.

“It went from ‘it’s just a cyst’ to ‘go get an ultrasound’ and from the ultrasound, ‘it’s not a cyst — let’s get a biopsy.’” Exactly two weeks after she celebrated her thirtieth birthday, she was told she had breast cancer. “This is a birthday present no one wants,” Keelar said.

At stage III, Keelar’s cancer was aggressive so she began chemotherapy almost immediately. “She had a large mass, not favorable for

surgery up front,” said Patricia Wehner, MD, a breast surgeon with the MedStar Breast Health Program at MedStar Washington Hospital Center. “For a lot of patients like Keelar, we give chemotherapy first. The goal is to shrink or reduce tumors to make surgery easier and more cosmetically favorable.”

Keelar received 12 weeks of chemotherapy at MedStar St. Mary’s Hospital’s Cancer Care and Infusion Services. “I don’t think I ever want to go through that again,” Keelar said. “It killed my appetite, it took my hair, it made me very fragile and weak. As soon as I started, I was like, ‘I am ready to get off of this right now.’”

Despite the struggle, she believes it was an important step on the road to being cancer free. “The medicine worked perfectly and I really do think

it killed it all. I probably would not have even needed the

surgery if I hadn’t had a lymph node affected.”

“Ultimately, Keelar decided to have a full mastectomy and an implant-based

reconstruction even though she had a

fantastic response to the chemotherapy,” said

Dr. Wehner who performed Keelar’s mastectomy and axillary lymph node dissection in March.

“I was scared and nervous,” Keelar said. “Dr. Wehner answered all my questions; she made sure I had her

Surviving Breast CancerSelf Exams Remain Important Part of Early Detection

Patricia Wehner, MDBreast Surgeon

FEATURED ON OUR COVER

Keelar Lovelace credits her family for helping to keep her going during her recent fight with breast cancer. Pictured with Keeler are her children, Kemonie, Kayla, Kyree, Justin and Ira. “When I wanted to give up or just lock myself in my room – they took care of me, even when I didn’t think I could take care of myself.” Keelar is a patient of Patricia Wehner, MD, a surgeon with the MedStar Breast Health Program who is now seeing patients in Leonardtown, Maryland.

“I ask every woman I talk to if they do their breast exam,” said Keelar. “It saved my life and it could save another woman’s life, too.”

Thousands of women every year will be diagnosed with breast cancer and, for many, a breast self exam will be the first step on their journey. According to the National Breast Cancer Foundation Inc., almost 40 percent of women diagnosed with breast cancer found a lump during a self examination. Keelar Lovelace is one of those women.

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Alan Brown may be 83 years old, but he is not afraid to try something new. On May 21, the Hollywood, Maryland, resident was one of the first people in the Delaware-Maryland-Virginia region to receive a new stemless shoulder implant recently approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). The surgery was performed by Peter Johnston, MD, an orthopedic surgeon on staff at MedStar St. Mary’s Hospital who specializes in shoulder and elbow surgery.

“I remember telling Dr. Johnston I didn’t need this surgery because I didn’t want to be in pain for weeks,” said Alan. “He said it wouldn’t be like that and it wasn’t.”

Alan made an appointment with Dr. Johnston because he had limited movement in his right shoulder. An avid wood carver, Alan said it was difficult to put his tools away in his workshop due to his shoulder condition. “I had to use my left hand a lot, I couldn’t lift my right arm,” Alan said.

“Mr. Brown had severe arthritis in his shoulder that limited his motion causing him to have a difficult time with activities of daily living and enjoying his hobbies,” Dr. Johnston said.

“My shoulder didn’t really hurt,” said Alan. “It would get a little achy in the evening. I just went to Dr. Johnston and wanted to know if I could put a little heat on it or something. He showed me the X-rays and told me I needed a shoulder replacement.”

A stemmed shoulder replacement is the most widely-used procedure for conditions such as Alan’s. The stemmed procedure involves implanting and possibly cementing a metal stem down a shaft carved into the humerus bone. This stem attaches to a metal ball that articulates with a plastic

socket replacing the glenohumeral joint of the shoulder. The recently approved stemless shoulder replacement is a less-invasive alternative which only uses a short stem allowing for the preservation of the humeral bone.

“The beauty of this system is that it is very simple,” said Dr. Johnston, who is one of 10 surgeons in the United States

performing the surgery and the only one in our region. “If you have to revise or change the implant, you have all the bone left below it — nothing has been violated and there is no cement to remove.”

Although the implant has only been approved by the FDA since March, systems like it have been used in Europe for more than a decade.

“People can always be skeptical of new devices, but there was a very stringent patient study performed before the FDA would even approve this,” Dr. Johnston said. “A small group of surgeons were involved in the study which looked at whether or not this was a good implant. They followed their patients for two years and they had no complications and no evidence of loosening.”

For Alan, the surgery went much better than he could have ever hoped. “I envisioned being in pain

for months and having it take a long time to heal,” Alan said. “I never experienced any pain with the procedure and I probably have 95 percent of my movement back. I can continue my hobbies and do everything I want to do with my arm. I couldn’t be happier with the procedure and with Dr. Johnston.”

Continued from previous page Simplifying Shoulder ReplacementSurgeon Only One of 10 in the Country Performing Implant

For a referral to Dr. Johnston or one of our other Orthopedic Surgeons, visit MedStarStMarys.org or call our Medical Staff Office at 301-475-6088.

Alan Brown spends many hours creating intricate wood carvings. Arthritis in his shoulder made it difficult for him to hang his tools after he finished using them. A stemless shoulder replacement has restored much of his range of motion.

A stemless shoulder replacement, far left, offers a less-invasive alternative to the stemmed shoulder replacement surgery which involves implanting a metal ‘stem’ in the humerus bone.

undivided attention when I needed it. She even helped my husband get through the whole surgery. That was the first major surgery I had in my life. I am thankful and grateful for all the staff did to help me get through this.”

Now seeing patients at MedStar Women’s Specialty Center in Leonardtown, Maryland, Dr. Wehner is a fellowship-trained breast surgical oncologist and member of the MedStar Breast Health Program. “I only do breast healthcare — that is where my focus and passion lie.

“Coming to St. Mary’s from MedStar Washington Hospital Center, I will be able to expose patients here to the latest trials generally only open at larger institutions. There are trials looking at whether a full axillary lymph node dissection is necessary for patients with lymph nodes that respond to chemotherapy. These patients may be able to have less surgery, and have the same overall outcomes as patients who go through more extensive surgeries, which could have higher complication rates and possible higher postoperative issues.”

Keelar was in the hospital for a day following the surgery and had to schedule several follow-up appointments with Dr. Wehner and the surgeon who performed her breast reconstruction. This past summer, she finished radiation therapy and is hoping to complete the last phase of her reconstruction early next year.

“The radiation went well, and I am just taking it day by day and looking forward to being able to go back to work,” Keelar said. “I am glad it showed its face now and I am able to do everything I can to get rid of it.”

“People get caught up in the diagnosis and just want to do everything possible to get rid of the cancer,” said Dr. Wehner. “The goal of seeing a breast specialist is for the doctor to really work with you and understand your expectations so we can treat you and deal with the cancer and still have you looking healthy and feeling like yourself and be proud of your body afterward.”

According to Dr. Wehner, the Washington, D.C. area has one of the highest rates of breast cancer in the country and she is seeing younger patients with breast cancer as well as more aggressive cancers.

“We are better at removing tumors and understanding the cosmetic outcome of it,” said Dr. Wehner. “We’ve gotten better with our drugs in order to treat cancer. We’ve gotten better at choosing which breast cancer patients need chemotherapy. We’ve gotten better at tailoring the radiation treatments, even to the point that some patients can get radiation in the operating room and don’t need to do it after surgery.”

Dr. Wehner said breast self exams remain a very important part of detection and screening. “I see a lot of women who come in with masses who would have presented earlier if they simply did a self exam.”

Having a family history of breast cancer and two young daughters, Keelar is vigilant about breast self exams and has already begun educating her teenage daughter about how important they are.

“I ask every woman I talk to if they do their breast exam,” said Keelar. “It saved my life and it could save another woman’s life, too.”

1 in 8Women

In the United States will be diagnosed with breast cancer in their lifetime.-Susan G. Komen

Dr. Wehner is now seeing patients at the MedStar Women’s Specialty Center in Leonardtown, Maryland.

To make an appointment, call 855-546-1029

Need a Mammogram? We’ve Got You Covered!Scheduling a mammogram for the first time or need a yearly appointment? Schedule your mammogram with MedStar St. Mary’s Hospital after Sept. 1 and receive a free pink and white Breast Cancer Awareness umbrella when you arrive for your appointment.

Call 301-475-6399 to schedule your appointment.4

Umbrellas are available only while supplies last. 5

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Facebook.com/medstarstmarys

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Outpatient Pavilion - Know Where to Go

Cancer Care & Infusion Services

Outpatient Imaging1.5 Tesla MRI20 Slice CT ScannerPET/CT Scanner (mobile)Radiology/Fluoroscopy SystemsUltrasound

Women's Health Services (within Outpatient Imaging)Digital Mammography & 3D TomosynthesisBone DensitometryUltrasound

Laboratory Center Registration NEW

Laboratory Center NEW

Specialty Physicians at St. Mary’sEmmanuel Atiemo, MD

Orthopedic Surgeon & Sports Medicine Specialist

Usman Zahir, MD Orthopedic Surgeon & Spine Specialist

Specialty Physicians at St. Mary’s NEW

Opening Fall 2015Edward Falta, MD, General Surgeon

Arthur Flatau III, MD, Vascular Surgeon

H. Charles Kim, MD, Colon & Rectal Surgeon

Health ConnectionsCommunity Classes and ProgramsBreastfeeding Resource CenterOutpatient Nutrition and Diabetes ClinicParents to Be Programs

Marketing, Public Relations and Philanthropy

The Outpatient Pavilion at MedStar St. Mary’s Hospital offers a whole new level of convenience and service with the recent addition of a Laboratory Center, a second set of Specialty Physician Offices and an improved imaging registration area.

SECOND FLOOR

Let’s Get SocialWe appreciate your support of our recently launched Twitter and Instagram accounts! You, our community members, deserve to stay in the know with live updates that differ from our website and print publications. Find us online today for information and fun facts about upcoming classes, hospital events, new doctors and service lines, contests, community alerts, wellness tips, blood drives, and so much more! Follow, like, or comment on any of our three social media pages for your chance to share your ideas and participate in feedback opportunities. #MSMHcares

Earlier this spring, MedStar Health welcomed Shah Associates, a multispecialty medical practice serving Southern Maryland, to the MedStar family. The addition of the MedStar Shah Medical Group – effective April 1 – provides Southern Maryland residents even greater access to community-based care and complex specialty services.

Shah Associates has 14 locations and more than 85 providers in 17 medical specialties. The collaboration with MedStar St. Mary’s Hospital and MedStar Southern Maryland Hospital Center reaffirms MedStar’s commitment to bringing the best possible healthcare services to the Southern Maryland region.

“This is a natural outgrowth of our long-standing relationship and common vision,” said Vinod Shah, MD, Shah Associates President. “The resources that a health system such as MedStar brings — depth and breadth of services plus expanded access to clinical trials, education and innovation — are a real benefit for communities and the physicians who care for them.”

The providers of the new MedStar Shah Medical Group will continue to see patients in their current office locations. MedStar Health is the largest not-for-profit healthcare system in Maryland and the Washington, D.C., region.

“By expanding our relationship, we can ensure residents of Southern Maryland have access to a broader range of quality healthcare options and additional resources to improve their lives.”

M. Joy Drass, MD Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer, MedStar Health

Do you have ideas or suggestions about the hospital

you’d like to share? Email us at MSMH.MPR@medstar.net or visit MedStarStMarys.org to learn more.

To make an appointment with Dr. Atiemo or Dr. Zahir in the Leonardtown or Waldorf office, call 240-434-7483.

Dr. Zahir (left), orthopedic surgeon and spine specialist, with Dr. Atiemo (right), orthopedic surgeon and sports medicine specialist.

Orthopedic SpecialistsNow Seeing Patients in Waldorf, MarylandMedStar orthopedic specialists, Emmanuel Atiemo, MD, and Usman Zahir, MD, are now seeing patients at the MedStar Orthopedic Institute office in Waldorf in addition to their Leonardtown office in the Outpatient Pavilion.

MedStar Orthopedic Institute is located at 11325 Pembrooke Square, Suite 115, Waldorf, MD 20603.

Partnership Grows Even Stronger

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Support Groups

Alzheimer’s Caregivers Support Meeting Fourth Thursday of each month, 6:30 to 7:30 p.m., Chesapeake-Potomac Home Health Agency Support and information for caregivers of individuals with Alzheimer’s and related dementia. Primary caregivers, family members and friends of affected persons are all welcome. Call 301-609-1904 to register prior to the meeting. Free.

Ostomy Support Group First Sunday of every other month (October), 2 to 4 p.m., Chesapeake- Potomac Home Health Agency Created specifically for patients and family members of patients who have colostomies, ileostomies and urostomies. To register for this support group, and to confirm dates, please call the CPHHA office at 1-800-656-4343. Free.

Bariatric Surgery Support Group Second Tuesday of each month, Sept. 12, Oct. 10, and Nov. 14, 10 to 11 a.m., Health Connections Hosted by the Bariatric Surgery Team at MedStar Washington Hospital Center. Free.

Good Grief Support Group First and third Tuesdays of each month, 3:30 to 5 p.m., Hospice of St. Mary’s Learn positive coping skills for dealing with the loss of a loved one. Call 301-994-3078 for location. Free.

Stroke Survivors Support Group Third Tuesdays of each month, Sept. 15, Oct. 20, and Nov. 17, 5:30 to 6:30 p.m., Health Connections Learn more about causes of stroke, recovery and how to prevent future problems. Speak with experts in rehabilitation, enjoy a light meal and the friendship of other stroke survivors and their families. Caregivers welcome. Free.

Cancer Care

Cancer Support Group First and third Wednesdays of each month, 7 to 8:30 p.m., Cancer Care & Infusion Services MedStar St. Mary’s and the American Cancer Society offer a support group for cancer patients, their family members and friends. The group is facilitated by associates from Cancer Care & Infusion Services and Case Management. Call 240-434-7247 for more information. Free.

Look Good, Feel Better Second Wednesday of each month, 7 to 8:30 p.m., Cancer Care & Infusion Services The hospital partners with the National Cosmetology Association and the American Cancer Society for this free program for cancer patients in any stage of diagnosis or treatment. This seminar helps female cancer patients improve their appearance and self-image by learning hands-on beauty techniques. Call 240-434-7247 to register. Free.

Cancer: Thriving & Surviving Sept. 15 - Oct. 20, 6-week program on Tuesdays from 6 to 8:30 p.m., Cancer Care and Infusion Services This Living Well Stanford University Chronic Disease Self Management Program is offered to cancer survivors and their family and friends. Topics include healthy eating, managing stress, exercise, working with healthcare providers, managing emotions and relationships, communications skills, and coping with effects of treatment. Materials used in class are available for purchase. Call 301-475-6019 to register.

11th Annual

National Diabetes Month CelebrationNov. 21 10:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.Lexington Park Library

MedStar St. Mary’s Hospital is offering a special event designed to help educate and inform you as a part of the National Diabetes Month Celebration. Whether you just want to learn about the disease or you are living with the condition, you’ll find something of interest. Take advantage of free health screenings, including body composition and blood pressure. Speak with educators about prediabetes and diabetes and receive free samples.

For more information, call Health Connections at 301-475-6019.

Pulmonary

Better Breathers Club Oct. 15, noon to 1 p.m., Health Connections

If you have a pulmonary disease, such as

COPD, join us to learn how to better

cope with the disease. We will discuss

several pulmonary-related topics,

including breathing techniques, home

health care and exercise. This program

is in partnership with the American Lung

Association. Call 240-434-7143 for more

information. Free.

Yoga for Better Breathing Sept. 17, 10-week program on Thursdays from 6 to 6:30 p.m., Health Connections Yoga for better breathing is a seated yoga that helps manage stress, combat asthma, COPD, high blood pressure and depression. Classes are taught by Dr. Bhasker Jhaveri. $80. Call to register.

Yoga Sept. 17, 10-week program on Thursdays from 4 to 5 p.m. or 5 to 6 p.m., Health Connections Yoga is a mind-body practice in complementary and alternative medicine with origins in ancient Indian philosophy. Start at your own level and ability. Experience the relaxing benefits of gentle movement. Classes are taught by Dr. Bhasker Jhaveri. $50. Call to register.

Smoking Cessation Classes Oct. 20 — Nov. 24, 6-week program on

Tuesdays from 6 to 7 p.m.,

St. Mary’s County Health Department You will gain knowledge about your smoking habit along with behavioral modifications, stress management and cease-smoking techniques. All classes are free of charge with medication to help you quit. Call 301-475-4330 to register.

Linking You to Good Health Your Life. Your Health. Your Way.

That’s the philosophy of Health Connections’ Health Link program. We

know your health is important to you and it is equally important to us.

Health Link classes are designed to help you navigate caring for your

health, especially for individuals with chronic conditions.

Diabetes Education

Seven Healthy Habits of People with Diabetes Oct. 23, 2 to 4 p.m., Lexington Park Library

Have diabetes? Feel overwhelmed?

What if you could learn a bit about each

of the seven self-care behaviors, then

work on one at a time? Join a certified

diabetes educator and learn how you

can manage diabetes, one healthy

step at a time. Caregivers and family

members welcome. Reserve your spot

today. Free.

Prevent Diabetes Workshop Oct. 3, 10 to noon, Health Connections;

Oct. 9, 2 to 4 p.m., Lexington Park Library

Do you have any risk factors for

diabetes (family history, overweight,

sedentary lifestyle) or have you even

been told you have pre-diabetes or

“borderline” diabetes? Attend this

two-hour workshop taught by a

certified diabetes educator and

learn how small changes can help

you prevent or delay the onset of

type 2 diabetes. Call to register. Free.

Diabetes Self Management Oct. 17, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.,

Health Connections

Take the mystery out of diabetic meal

planning, monitoring, treatment options,

and day-to-day coping with diabetes.

For more information about our

American Diabetes Association

recognized education center, call

301-475-6019. Physician’s order and

screening appointment is

required with a diabetes educator.

Senior Wellness & Events

Senior Gold Card Luncheon

Sept. 3, Oct. 1, and Nov. 5, 12:30 to 2 p.m., Health Connections Enjoy a lunch and be treated to interesting and informative educational programs. Call to register. Free.

Do you or a loved one suffer from a chronic condition? This six-session, weekly workshop is for anyone with a long-term or recurring condition and / or living with someone with a chronic condition.

This Program Includes Guidance on:

Stress Management

Communications Skills

Managing the Symptom Cycle

and Medications

Working with Your Healthcare Provider

Proper Nutrition

Materials used in class are available

for purchase.

Sept. 17 1 to 3:30 p.m. Lexington Park Library

Oct. 5 6 to 8:30 p.m. Health Connections

For more information or to register, call 301-475-6019.

Living Well Stanford University Chronic Disease Self-Management Program for Chronic Conditions

Health Connections CalendarFALL 2015

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Health Connections Calendar

Keys to Wellness

Alternative Medicine

Reflexology

Sept. 11, Oct. 9, and Nov. 13, 2 to 5 p.m., Health Connections Enjoy a relaxing reflexology session! $20 for one 20-minute session.

Exercise, Nutrition & Weight Management

Body Composition Analysis

By appointment only, Health Connections Ready to start that new fitness plan or want to measure the progress of your current fitness routine? Analysis includes measurements and an in-depth look at body composition. $15.

Walk With Ease

Every Monday, Wednesday and Friday from Sept. 14 - Oct. 23, 9 a.m., Loffler Senior Activity Center, Chancellor’s Run Regional Park Want to take control of your health? Sign up for The Arthritis Foundation Walk With Ease program. This program is designed to help people with arthritis better manage their pain. Walking can help with both weight loss and stress control. The course offers stretching and strengthening, tips for walking safely and comfortably, health education information, and personalized walking routes. Call 301-475-6019 to register.

In the Community

CPR, First Aid & Safety

Heart Saver First Aid (Li-016094)Nov. 14, 12:30 to 3:30 p.m., Education and Simulation Center Do you know what to do in an emergency? Participants receive an American Heart Association Heart Saver First Aid completion card at the end of the course. $35.

Heart Saver CPR / AED (Li-016092) Nov. 13, 4 to 8 p.m., Education and Simulation Center Designed by the American Heart Association, Heart Saver will teach lay rescuers CPR, how to use an AED and foreign object airway obstruction removal for adults, children and infants. Two-year certification upon completion of course. $45.

Heart Saver Pediatric First Aid CPR / AED (Li-016101) Oct. 24, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Education and Simulation Center This course is designed to meet the

regulatory needs for child care workers

across the U.S. It teaches how to respond

to and manage illnesses and injuries in

a child or infant in the moments until

professional help arrives. It covers the

four steps of first aid and first aid skills,

in addition to child CPR/ AED and infant

CPR. The course also offers optional

modules necessary for child care

providers. Course does not include

adult CPR. $85.

Enroll online at www.sitelms.org or call Organizational Learning & Research at 301-475-6020.

FALL 2015

To register for Health Connections classes, visit MedStarStMarys.org or call 301-475-6019

Childbirth & Family Education

Child Safety Seat Check Sept. 14 and Nov. 9, 4 p.m. to 6 p.m., Leonardtown Rescue Squad Certified passenger safety technicians will inspect and teach parents how to properly install car seats for infants and children. Presented in cooperation with the St. Mary’s Highway Safety Team. By appointment only. Free.

Breastfeeding Moms Every Wednesday, 10 a.m. to noon, Health Connections If you are a new mom who could use the support of other mothers, attend this free support group facilitated by lactation consultants. Free.

Safe Sitter Oct. 17 and Nov. 7, 8:45 a.m. to 4 p.m., Health Connections MedStar St. Mary’s offers this program to teach adolescents ages 12 to 14 years old common sense babysitting tips, basic first aid and CPR. Call early to register for this popular class. $65.

Parents-To-Be

MedStar St. Mary’s Health Connections offers the following in-depth series of classes on becoming a parent. Call 301-475-6019 to register. Classes fill quickly.

* Web-based options are available for parents-to-be who cannot attend traditional classes or for those looking for a refresher course. Only select classes may apply.

• Infant CPR – Sept. 28, Oct. 26, and Nov. 23, 6:30 to 8:30 p.m, Health Connections. Learn lifesaving CPR techniques and actions to help a choking infant. $15 / person.

• New Brothers and Sisters – Oct. 25, 1 - 1:45 p.m. in the multi-purpose room. This class is designed for siblings aged 3 to 10 years old. Prepares little ones for the new addition to your family. $5 / child.

• Breastfeeding Basics – Sept. 14, Oct. 12, and Nov. 9, 6:30 to 9 p.m., Health Connections. Learn the fundamentals of breastfeeding. $15 / couple.

• Childbirth* – Sept. 26, Oct. 24, and Nov. 21, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. (one day class), Sept. 1 (6-week class), 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Health Connections Covers labor, delivery and beyond. $55 / couple.

• Baby Care and Beyond* – Sept. 21, Oct. 5, and Nov. 2, 6:30 to 9 p.m., Health Connections. This interactive, fun and informative class answers your baby care questions and takes the mystery out of parenting. Practical skills like bathing and diapering, combined with ways to enhance your baby’s brain development makes this a must-have class for all parents. $15 / couple, $25 / web-based.

• Women’s Health & Family Birthing Center Tours – Second and fourth Sundays of each month, 2 to 2:45 p.m., main lobby of the hospital. Is there a baby in your future? Come tour our Women’s Health & Family Birthing Center. Registration required. Free.

Community Blood Drive American Red Cross

Sept. 14 and Nov. 9 9:30 a.m. to 3 p.m.Health Connections

It feelsgood to give

Make a lifestyle change for the better! If you or a loved one is at risk for diabetes, it’s time to take charge of your health. Participate in our year-long class designed to eliminate possible risk factors through making simple, healthier changes in your life. Our program includes free body composition screenings, handouts, giveaways, and lifestyle coach support between sessions. Each session will cover a different topic, from healthy eating tips to exercise and long-term change.

Read more about the Simple Changes program on page 17.

Wednesday, Sept. 16 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. Health Connections

For more information, call 301-475-6019.

Cost is $99 per participant. Classes are held weekly at the same time and place for 16 weeks followed by monthly sessions.

Annual Community Health FairSt. Mary’s County Department of Aging & Human Services

Friday, Oct. 30 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.Southern Maryland Higher Education Center

The ‘Way to Wellness’ Fair will offer more than 70 exhibitors with the latest health and wellness news, information and products. Health screenings include skin cancer, hearing, height and weight, oral cancer, blood pressure, leg and vein.

For more information, visit the Department of Aging and Human Services website at stmarysmd.com/aging or call 301-475-4200, ext. 1073.

MedStar depends on generous, committed neighbors like you to support their life-saving services. To register, call 301-475-6019.

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This fall, enter into an aura of danger and mystery so irresistible, it can only be created by the master of solace himself. On Nov. 20, we invite you to join us at the St. Mary’s Hospital Foundation Gala as we escape into the allure of a debonair royal commander, Her Majesty’s Secret Service, and the world’s eternal love for a very special gemstone – diamonds.

In its 28th year, the Gala is Southern Maryland’s premier formal event for a wonderful cause –our non-profit, award-winning hospital that has

served the community for more than 100 years.

Hospital Foundation Funds New GE Monitoring System

More than $120,000 Awarded to Aspiring Healthcare Students

Madeleine BeaulieuCallaway, MD

Bachelor of Biochemistry/Pharmacy

Brittany CarrMechanicsville, MD

Bachelor of Nursing

Breanna ChagnonCharlotte Hall, MD

Associates of Radiology

Shanice CooperLexington Park, MD

Bachelor of Nursing

Sharon KerwinLeonardtown, MD

Bachelor of Nursing

Kasey LongAvenue, MD

Bachelor of Nursing

Cassandra OliverHollywood, MD

Bachelor/Master in Occupational Therapy

St. Mary’s County Gives Back

To become a sponsor, contact MedStar St. Mary’s Hospital’s Philanthropy Officer, Jennifer Eubanks, at Jennifer.M.Eubanks@MedStar.net or visit MedStarStMarys.org/007 to sign up online and buy tickets.

Holiday BazaarComing Oct. 30The Auxiliary’s Annual Holiday Bazaar will be held from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Friday, Oct. 30, in the main lobby of the hospital. The Holiday Bazaar features handcrafted items such as jewelry, wreaths, flower arrangements, scarves and more, as well as a silent auction and bake sale. For more information about the Auxiliary events or to become a member, call the Gift Shop at 301-475-6153 or Auxilian Ernestine Pence at 301-904-3648.

Annual Golf Tournament Raises $25,000An early taste of summer welcomed the 73 golfers who participated in the 10th annual MedStar St. Mary’s Golf Tournament held Tuesday, May 19, at Breton Bay Country Club. A joint effort of the MedStar St. Mary’s Hospital Auxiliary and the St. Mary’s Hospital Foundation, this year’s event raised approximately $25,000 for medical equipment and technological upgrades.

3rd Place: The Dough BoysBruce Nicol

Ryan Nicol

Joe O’Neil

Mike Boyd

2nd Place: Raley, Watts & O’NeillRick Tepel

Bob Evans

Gordon O’Neil

Wayne Taylor

1st Place: The MIL Corp.John Nesbitt

Bill Dunkin

Anthony Stephens

Paul Manchak, III

Why I GiveBear Creek Barbeque of Callaway, Maryland, has catered the MedStar St. Mary’s Hospital Auxiliary and St. Mary’s Hospital Foundation Golf Tournament every year as an in-kind donation. “We started our business to be a part of the community, and I thought it was such a great idea to give back to many in our own personal way,” said owner Angie Robertson, along with her partner Curtis Shreve. “It’s always such a great group of people at the event.”

“This year’s golf tournament was another well-run event that was enjoyed by all who participated,” said Thomas Clark, Vice President at the MIL Corporation – a defense contractor with a local presence providing engineering and technical services to the federal government for 35 years. As a platinum sponsor for 10 years, Butch Long, the company’s president and co-founder, is committed to supporting the local community through sponsoring the hospital’s annual golf tournament. This year also marks the first time the MIL team took first!

This spring, the St. Mary’s Hospital Foundation proudly awarded seven healthcare scholarships to students from St. Mary’s County who are pursuing careers in health care. Since 2001, a total of 117 scholarships have been awarded and each helps pay for tuition, books and fees associated with the degree or certification.

“This is the 14th year the Foundation has been able to support the talented youth of Southern Maryland through continued education. Thank you for all of the generous donations from our community, and thank you to everyone who participated in Foundation fundraisers held throughout the year,” said Jennifer Blake Meyer, St. Mary’s Hospital Foundation Chair. “It’s a great feeling knowing our efforts can help even one person to follow their dreams.”

On July 28, the Foundation hosted a reception for all of the scholarship winners and their family members. Congratulations to the 2015 Foundation scholarship recipients!

This summer, the St. Mary’s Hospital Foundation identified an area of need within the hospital and chose a major project to support with the hope of providing more advanced care for patients, and in turn a more comprehensive medical record for physicians. The Foundation selected to fund a GE Health Care Patient Monitoring System for MedStar St. Mary’s Hospital’s Angiography Suite, a $150,000 project. The purchase of this particular monitoring system has increased the safety of patients by allowing all vital signs to be displayed in one central location for nurses to monitor. Centralized monitoring is also known to improve productivity and allows nurses to upload recorded vitals to Cerner, the database used to access patients’ electronic medical records.

“The interventional procedural areas within Imaging are very high-paced and unpredictable. This monitoring system provides a safety net for our nursing staff to monitor multiple patients and areas at the same time,” said Ethan Leeman, Director of Imaging, Cardiology, and Neurology Services. “Safety is the key here – the patients are the ones who will benefit from this system. The addition of the information collected from the new monitors will provide a more comprehensive clinical picture of each patient’s condition throughout these procedures.”

In addition, monitors previously used in Imaging will be transferred to the Post Anesthesia Care Unit (PACU) in Perioperative Services. The recovery unit will use the added equipment for taking vitals and monitoring patients.

1st

2nd 3rd

FRIDAY, NOV.20,2015 HOLLYWOOD SOCIAL HALL

Interested in applying for next year’s scholarship? The Foundation accepts applications for those interested not only in nursing, but also in the growing field of allied health. These allied health professionals are involved in many aspects of health care, including: physical, occupational, and speech therapy; radiology; respiratory therapy; ultrasound; laboratory technology; and more. Applications for the Foundation Scholarship are available each spring. Visit MedStarStMarys.org to download an application.

Angie Robertson and Tom Clark

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Elizabeth Harris (right) with Neighborhood Wellness Advocate, Kimberly Van Pelt.

Pediatric Gastroenterologist Now Available MedStar St. Mary’s Hospital is pleased to announce Vibha Sood, MD, a pediatric gastroenterologist with MedStar Georgetown University Hospital, is now seeing patients at the MedStar Physicians Specialty Office in Charlotte Hall, Maryland. Dr. Sood’s areas of interest include pediatric feeding disorders and nutrition, allergic gastrointestinal disorders, and inflammatory bowel disease.

Dr. Sood has been recognized with several professional honors including a competitive National Institute of Health “Bench to Bedside to Curbside” research grant and the University of Rochester Dean’s fellowship research award.

MedStar St. Mary’s Specialty Physicians at Charlotte Hall29955 Three Notch Road Suite 201 Charlotte Hall, Maryland 20622

In April 2013, AccessHealth was created to establish accessible, integrated, culturally competent healthcare in the Greater Lexington Park Health Enterprise Zone (HEZ), including Great Mills, Park Hall and Lexington Park. Supported by clinical care coordination, prevention services, and community outreach and education, AccessHealth addresses urgent healthcare needs for the citizens of the HEZ.

One of the goals of the initiative includes the Neighborhood Wellness Advocate Program. Advocates are individuals who live in the community and make home visits, helping clients to set up medical appointments, arrange transportation, and support them with whatever they may need.

Lexington Park resident Debbie Baker has been a Neighborhood Wellness Advocate since the program began more than two years ago. “We see a lot of cases with chronic illnesses,” Debbie said. “We also take care of the social aspects of things. One of my most recent clients, Tamika, didn’t have electricity. She needed medication refrigerated and had children at home, so our first step was to help her get that.”

Tamika Bryant, 39, was struggling after her doctor ordered her to stop working due to her severe diabetes. A proud, single mother of three, she successfully worked in the nursing field for more

than 15 years before her health suddenly declined.

Diagnosed with diabetes, hypertension, and COPD, a lung disease, Tamika lives on a strict medication schedule − checking her blood sugar every two hours, each time she eats, and also every morning and night. She takes insulin before and after each meal, and must watch her activity to make sure her sugar levels don’t drop. For someone who used to stay busy helping others, Tamika’s new health conditions make it nearly impossible for her to work as a nurse.

Unable to get social security benefits, Tamika credits AccessHealth for stepping in when she had no other help. “I need to pick and choose my battles. I don’t want to sit back and not work, but if my body won’t allow me to, I can only do what I can,” she said. “AccessHealth is helpful when you don’t have any other options.”

Debbie says the best part of her job is sharing the passion that goes into all of the Advocates’ work and seeing the progress of her clients. “Being a member of this community, I know all of the barriers, and I can relate to some of the situations. I can’t change everything, but if I can help one person that’s fulfillment enough for me,” Debbie said. “What I do is not my job, I work

For more information or to make an appointment with Dr. Sood, call 202-243-3558.

21161 Lexwood Drive, Room 2 Lexington Park, MD 20653

240-237-8272 ENGLISH 240-237-8302 ESPAÑOL

Vibha Sood, MD

Advocating for a Better Tomorrowfrom the heart. This is my calling.”

Fellow Neighborhood Wellness Advocate Kim Van Pelt has a background in public health and feels the same way. “I really enjoy helping others.”

During her role as an Advocate, Kim has seen the positive effects AccessHealth can have on both the young and the old.

Her client, Elizabeth Harris, 85, was sent to AccessHealth through an emergency room referral last fall. Since then, Kim has helped Elizabeth with electricity, prescriptions, and transportation. “They’ve helped me go to the doctors, fill out papers I didn’t understand, and even receive a new Social Security card,” Elizabeth said. “ADA [Paratransit Program] now comes directly to my door to pick me up for my appointments. Take advantage of this program, it’s been a blessing to me.”

Back to School Health Care – It’s as Easy as

Those lazy days of summer are coming to an end and it is time for back to school, which means a long list of must-dos to get everyone ready and started back on the right track. Often overlooked, yet even more important than new clothes and supplies, is taking care of your child’s health. With the help of MedStar St. Mary’s Hospital (MSMH), it’s as easy as A, B, C.

Neighborhood Wellness Advocate, Debbie Baker (right) with Tamika Bryant.

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For more information about the variety of pediatric services offered through MedStar St. Mary’s Hospital, visit MedStarStMarys.org or call our medical staff office for a referral at 301-475-6088.

A is for Access Looking for a new pediatrician or still need that sports physical filled out? Many St. Mary’s County parents may not be aware of the increasing number of pediatricians and specialists now available through MedStar St. Mary’s. A quick visit to the hospital’s website – MedStarStMarys.org – and a click on the “Find a Doc” link at the bottom left-hand side of the home page, will put you in touch with numerous pediatricians and pediatric specialists in St. Mary’s including endocrinologists, gastroenterologists, cardiologists, neurologists and pulmonologists.

B is for Building a Relationship Our hospital continues to partner with other MedStar Health entities to bring top-notch care to St. Mary’s County. New surgeons and practitioners with strong ties to MedStar Washington Hospital Center and MedStar Georgetown University Hospital are now seeing patients in our Leonardtown and Charlotte Hall locations. Our specialists combine compassionate care with extensive knowledge and support from the entire MedStar team.

C is for Coordination Coordination of services is an important part of receiving the proper follow-up care. Thanks to the recent redesign of our Outpatient Pavilion, receiving imaging services or laboratory work is more convenient than ever. An outpatient laboratory center recently opened in the Pavilion and outpatient X-rays, CT scans and MRIs can be performed without having to navigate the hospital hallways. Our Imaging Department uses a special process called Image Gently to help reduce the radiation exposure to young patients. The Pavilion offers easy access and convenient hours to fit your busy life. Also available at MSMH is a range of pediatric rehabilitation services including physical, occupational and speech-language therapy. After your appointment and

when you return home, be sure to register for our MyCare Patient Portal, which makes checking test results or paying

bills as easy as a touch of a button.

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Rose credits the success of the course to opening them both up to a lot of information they didn’t know before. “I’m glad the hospital has this program,” she said. “Sometimes you have to make your mind up if you want to live or die – or be on medicine. Don’t wait until tomorrow; you have to do it today. The class is worth taking.”

Small Steps in the Right Direction

Diabetes is a disease that affects individuals of all ages, and for Kirsten Knokey, 33, of Leonardtown, Maryland, prevention quickly became an important part of her life.

Referred by hospital Dietician Becky Sutay, Kirsten began the program this spring after her A1C levels indicated she was not only pre-diabetic, but 0.1 percent away from diabetes. “That’s what scared me the most,” she said. “My mom is diabetic and I didn’t want to go down that road.”

The focus of the program is to take small steps to obtain a larger goal. “It’s been a struggle, but I’m determined to lose the weight.”

Kirsten notes that the support group associated with Simple Changes is half of what makes the program thrive. “Writing down what I eat and knowing someone would read it is really the kick in the butt I needed because you want to prove to them and yourself that you can eat correctly,” she said. “My self-esteem is also a lot better now that I can talk to other people and hear other points of view.”

Rounding out her 16-week journey, Kirsten has made tremendous progress and has since lost 25 pounds, a full 9.43 percent of her weight, and successfully lowered her A1C levels. “Simple Changes is such a positive program. I really enjoy this class.”

Apartments to House Visiting Physicians, ResidentsAs a part of MedStar St. Mary’s Hospital’s (MSMH) strategy to

continue recruiting talented physicians to southern Maryland,

the hospital is building a quadruplex home in Leonardtown,

Maryland, to temporarily house physicians in training and

visiting healthcare professionals. Reflecting a long-term,

strategic goal for MSMH, the house is a direct result of the

lack of temporary housing in rural St. Mary’s

County, and will open opportunities for new

physicians to participate in our programs and

experience our wonderful community.

Although MSMH is not a teaching hospital

with its own residency program, it does

host visiting Emergency Department (ED)

residents from MedStar Washington Hospital

Center (MWHC) and MedStar Georgetown

University Hospital. As with any form of

internship, programs lasting only a few

months make it difficult to find proper

housing. The new residence will create a convenient place

for medical professionals to stay, as well as for any visiting

physicians who need short-term housing.

In addition to the visiting residents in the ED, residents from

MWHC joined our community this summer as a part of

the Internal Medicine Rural Training Track Program. These

residents participated in outpatient rotations with MedStar

primary care physicians throughout St. Mary’s County.

Though rural areas often suffer from a shortage of primary

“One of the best ways to recruit new physicians to our county is by hosting them for a time during their training,

Some will decide that living in our county fits their practice and personal aspirations.”

care physicians, research suggests residents who train

in rural areas are more likely to practice there. For the

southern Maryland region, the new housing might just be

the bargaining chip MSMH needs to make primary care

residents fall in love with the community and choose to

settle here.

“One of the best ways to recruit new

physicians to our county is by hosting

them for a time during their training,”

said Stephen Michaels, MD, Chief

Operating Officer and Chief Medical

Officer at MSMH. “Some will decide that

living in our county fits their practice and

personal aspirations.”

Site work for the proposed plan has

begun and building completion can be

expected soon. Design-wise, the house

will be a one-level complex built to blend in with the small

townhouses located off Moakley Street in the Singletree

development.

There will be two sets of fully-furnished, one- and two-

bedroom units in preparation for both single visitors and

those with small families. In addition to bedrooms, each

unit is set to include a spacious foyer, living room, and

kitchen, equipped with walk-in laundry rooms, pantries,

closets, and full baths.

Making Simple Changes Together

Rose and Stewart Dement have lived in St. Mary’s County all of their lives. Mechanicsville residents, the pair does everything together, including going to Bhasker Jhaveri, MD, of MedStar Shah Medical Group.

“Dr. Jhaveri said if I didn’t straighten up I’d be dead in three years,” Stewart said. “My main focus is to keep my A1C numbers down to prevent insulin dependency and to protect my limbs.”

The A1C test is a common blood test used to diagnose and manage diabetes, and when Stewart’s wife, Rose, was also tested, she fell in the pre-diabetic range.

The couple decided it was time to combat the disease together through Simple Changes, a National Diabetes Prevention Program focused on lifestyle changes, and began the hospital’s Simple Changes program in the fall of 2014. A year-long course that begins with 16 weekly classes and tapers off into monthly sessions, the goal for all Simple Changes participants is to lose 7 percent of their weight by eating healthy and with 150 minutes of brisk physical activity each week.

“We’re learning how to keep a diary on our food and calorie content,” Stewart said. The best part is that they’re able to support each other by doing it together.

Both Rose and Stewart will celebrate their one year anniversary of the program this October, and have lost 20 and 50 pounds, respectively. “I used to think it was just hereditary to develop Type 2 Diabetes, but with the way people eat and the portion sizes nowadays it can easily lead to diabetes,” Rose said. “My goal was to get my numbers down, and I did that by surpassing my 7 percent.”

Stewart, too, has made progress. “My A1C levels decreased and the doctors are optimistic about my future. This program has extended my life.”

Life is Sweeter with Less Sugar

Register for an upcoming Simple Changes Class! Learn more on page 11.

Rose and Stewart Dement

Kirsten Knokey

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Providing You with Safe, Caring, On-Time SurgerySurgery is an experience most people would like to avoid. However, there are situations in which surgery is the best option for healing and relief. At MedStar St. Mary’s Hospital (MSMH), the responsibility of the Perioperative Services Department is to pro-vide surgical patients and their families with a comfortable and safe experience. We routinely evaluate our service, and through the helpful feedback from our community, we have made enhancements to our surgery process.

Patients who enter our pre-operative waiting room may notice we rearranged the furniture to create a cozier atmosphere. The Perioperative Services department also introduced a greeter program used to update waiting families and friends of patients about their progress and to move the visitors to the conference room in order to speak with the surgeon post-operation.

Through these changes, we have noticed significant improvements in positive feedback and an appreciation of the welcoming, informative nature.

In order to allow for more cases and quicker surgical availability for our patients at MSMH, a sixth operating room for urgent cases was opened in February. In addition, four hours per weekday was devoted to accommodate morning C-sections, endoscopy and interventional radiology cases.

Director of Perioperative Services, Jo Ellen Nutter, MBA, BS, RN, said the department is carefully watching their on-time starts, and continually works to streamline processes to improve timeliness. “Our aim is to provide the community with safe, caring, on-time surgery,” Jo Ellen said, “and the sixth operating room is being well utilized as a welcome addition to surgical services.”

For the seventh consecutive year, MedStar St. Mary’s Hospital received the 2015 Workplace Excellence, the Health & Wellness Trailblazer and the EcoLeadership awards through the Alliance for Workplace Excellence (AWE), a non-profit organization focusing on helping to make companies in the Greater Washington D.C. area excellent places to work. The hospital also received the 2015 Diversity Champion Award for the third year in a row. The awards are based on external standards and reaffirm the hospital’s commitment to being an employer of choice and to sustaining the environment for future generations.

On June 11, MedStar St. Mary’s received the 39 Weeks Recognition banner sponsored by the Maryland Patient Safety Center & Maryland Department of Health & Mental Hygiene in partnership with the March of Dimes Maryland National Capital Chapter. This banner represents MSMH’s dedication to the reduction of early elective deliveries and the commitment to providing the best care for our mothers and babies. The banner was awarded during the Maryland Patient Safety Center Conference held at the Turf Valley Conference Center in Ellicott City, Maryland.

MedStar St. Mary’s Renovated Sleep Lab Will Hook You Up

Got Sleep?

Did you know? For more than 20 years, MedStar St. Mary’s has been committed to supporting local artists by showcasing their work throughout the hospital. Most recently, MSMH is collaborating with the Leonardtown Business Association’s Celebration of the Arts by displaying paintings throughout the sleep lab hallway. The celebration is due in part to Leonardtown being named Maryland’s 22nd Arts and Entertainment District, the first and only one in Southern Maryland.

Elizabeth Schmidt, RNPerioperative Services

MedStar St. Mary’s Wins Multiple Excellence in Health Care Awards

Workplace Excellence Health & Wellness Trailblazer EcoLeadership Diversity Champion

Women’s Health & Family Birthing Center Director Kathy Whitecotten and Clinical Coordinator Lisa Hulvey attended the conference and accepted the award for the hospital.

You Asked, We Listened! Spurring from visitor feedback, a new vending machine offering healthier options to patients and associates has been placed near the Emergency Department. A long-term goal for the hospital’s Wellness Committee, the vending machine is refrigerated and includes snacks such as small salads, fruit, yogurt, nuts, and vegetables with dip. The Committee anticipates the rest of the current machines around the hospital will also take on a healthier selection in the near future.

March of Dimes presents 39 Weeks banner to the Women’s Health & Family Birthing Center.

In May, MedStar St. Mary’s Hospital received the American Heart Association’s Fit-Friendly Worksite Award at the Gold level for the third consecutive year. The hospital prides itself on providing a healthy environment for its associates and most recently promoted multiple health initiatives, such as the ‘Move It To Lose It’ campaign and their ‘Biggest Loser Competition’.

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Monitoring one’s sleep can be a tactical method to determine what factors are causing an individual to lose sleep. Recently, MedStar St. Mary’s Hospital (MSMH) transferred its sleep lab to a new location. Situated in a quiet corridor of the hospital on the first floor next to the Wound Healing Center, the renovated sleep lab is equipped with upgraded, state-of-the-art technology; hotel-like accommodations; and enhanced sleep study capabilities, including adult and pediatric exams both in-lab and at home.

“It’s all brand-new, top-of-the-line diagnostic equipment,” said Tim Young, one of the two registered polysomnographic technologists with MedStar St. Mary’s sleep lab. “The biggest thing is that the rooms are very comfortable; it feels more like a hotel than a lab. It’s evolved into a facility that’s unlike any other part of the hospital – even down to the sheets!”

Overseeing the venture is Ethan Leeman, Director of Imaging, Cardiology and Neurology Services, who believes the features and services of the new sleep lab will help to shorten

turnaround times when it comes to receiving patient results.

“The new technology and systems will allow us to integrate with MedStar Georgetown’s Neurology Program to help facilitate providing critical results to the ordering physicians,” Ethan said. The new equipment also includes six at-home sleep study monitors that are more advanced than previous versions. “Instead of the traditional single sensor for measuring sleep data, the new technology provides us with two – one attached to the chest for respirations and heart rate, along with the nasal cannula and finger clip for a secondary back-up in case anything falls off during normal sleep.”

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New Online Service Makes Paying Hospital Bills Easier Than Ever

Paying your hospital bills recently became quicker and easier with MedStar St. Mary’s Hospital’s (MSMH) Online Bill Pay service offered through the hospital’s website and the MyCare Patient Portal.

Paying through MedStarStMarys.org

Once on the MedStar St. Mary’s website, navigate to the Billing and Insurance link located at the bottom of the home page. Two choices are available for paying your bill: ‘Make a one-time easy payment’ or ‘View or update your account.’

After choosing ‘Make a one-time easy payment,’ you will be prompted with a new page that asks for your patient account number, your birth date and your zip code. If you choose the ‘View and update your account’ option, a new window will launch which asks you to log into your account. If you do not have an account, you can select ‘Click Here to Register’.

Registering for an account allows you to save your payment information, register to receive electronic statements, receive email alerts when new statements are available, keep track of payments, and update information your doctor has on file for

you and your family.

Paying through MyCare Patient Portal

Every patient of MSMH has the opportunity to create an account through our MyCare Patient Portal. Once logged into MyCare, patients can select the ‘Billing and Insurance’ link. The link will redirect users to MSMH’s Billing and Insurance page, where you can make your payment.

Understanding Your Statement Balance

The amount owed as of each user’s most current statement will be listed under the ‘Please Pay this Amount’ box. Much like that of a credit card, payments made after the date of that statement may not be reflected in the amount owed. Payments can be made securely with a credit card, checking or savings account.

Click, Pay, Done!

Inpatient and outpatient services are available for free or reduced charges for patients who are not eligible to receive medical assistance from the state and who meet specific income requirements. To find out if you qualify for payment assistance, contact MedStar St. Mary’s Hospital’s Credit Office at 301-475-6039.

Payment Assistance Available