HeartBeat - Orange Regional Medical Center
Transcription
HeartBeat - Orange Regional Medical Center
New Vice President of Human Resources Orange Regional is pleased to announce the appointment of Deborah Carr as Vice President of Human Resources. Deborah has been working closely for the past few months with outgoing Vice President, John Hadley, to assure a smooth transition into her new role. John, who is retiring, will be moving to Vermont with his wife, Nancy, and their two beloved dogs. Deborah was hired at Arden Hill Hospital in 1988 as a Professional Recruiter, and most recently served as Director of Human Resources at Orange Regional. Deborah has a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration and is currently pursuing her Masters in Business Administration. “I thoroughly enjoy my association with Orange Regional Medical Center,” says Orange Regional Center is committed to Medical ensuring the privacy and security of patient health information. While patient information must be available to health care professionals in the process of ensuring proper care, we avoid disclosing more patient information than needed to perform our respective duties. We understand that medical information about you and your health is personal. To support our commitment to patient confidentiality, Orange Regional will ensure that the appropriate steps are taken to disclose only the minimum amount of protected health information necessary to accomplish the particular use or disclosure, as required by the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996 (HIPAA ) and other applicable federal, state, and/or local laws and regulations. For additional information, a copy of Orange Regional’s Notice of Privacy Practices can be requested or viewed on our web-site: www.ormc.org www.ormc.org If you would like to be removed from our mailing list, please contact us at 1-888321-6762. 2 forYOUR HEALTH / FALL 2004 Deborah Carr, Vice President of Human Resources Deborah. “The employees are among the best anywhere. I am extremely proud of what we have been able to accomplish and the services we provide. Not only do I look forward to my new responsibilities, but also to continuing Orange Regional’s commitment to becoming the employer of choice in our area,” she adds. Orange Regional Awarded New York State Funds: Community Health Care Conversion Demonstration Project New York State, in partnership with the Federal government, has awarded over $1 billion to hospitals throughout New York State to assist in the transition to Medicaid managed care. Orange Regional received funding to allow the organization to undertake health service delivery and work force restructuring activities. To date, a total of $1,147,062 has been awarded to Orange Regional. The program is funding initiatives that increase primary care and managed care readiness as well as worker retraining programs that prepare staff to meet the changes in care delivery brought about by managed care. The Medical Center has mounted several programs as a result of this funding. For example, with the support of our Unions, the Medical Center established a crosstraining initiative several years ago: emergency department nurses were trained in critical care, and vice versa. Funds also assisted Orange Regional in providing much needed primary physician care services to the Middletown Community Health Center to purchase software that supports the hospital's electronic charting initiative and for future nurse training programs. HeartBeat Cardiac Catheterization Lab Opens Skip the trip to the city - advanced cardiac care is here The Diagnostic Cardiac Cath Lab at Orange Regional’s Horton campus offers the most advanced, accurate diagnostics for your heart and arteries. Backed by an affiliation with New York-Presbyterian Hospital, Orange Regional offers the latest technology, experienced cardiologists and expert support staff. Our thanks to all who have supported this initiative and helped to drastically improve cardiac care in our community. Left to right: Radiologic Technologist Keith Downing; Cardiac Cath Lab Director Martha Hall, R.N.; Cardiac Cath Lab nurses, Patricia Gumbs, R.N., Carol Morin, R.N., Lynn L. Doland, R.N.; Cardiologists, Cardiac Cath Lab Co-Medical Director Dr. Inderpal Singh, Dr. Gary Silverman, Dr. Andrew Goldmann, Cardiac Cath Lab CoMedical Director Dr. William Gotsis; and Anne Nelson, Administrator of Cardiopulmonary & Diabetes Services. 3 HeartBeat Step Orange County’s first diagnostic cardiac catheterization lab Blood pressure and heart rhythms are monitored constantly throughout the procedure. Dr. Inderpal Singh demonstrates a diagnostic cardiac catheterization procedure. 4 forYOUR HEALTH / FALL 2004 Inside HeartBeat All Cardiac Catheterization Lab nurses have extensive experience in cardiac catheterization and intervention. Patient comfort is a key focus after the procedure, which requires patients to lay flat for 2-4 hours. Plasma flat screen televisions are mounted in the ceiling for patient viewing. WWW. ORMC.ORG ORANGE REGIONAL MEDICAL CENTER 5 NEW Medical Procedures Alternative to traditional tonsillectomy offers faster recovery Anyone who’s had his or her tonsils removed surely must remember the sore throat that follows. Approximately 600,000 people in the United States undergo tonsillectomy each year, and it is the second most common surgery performed on children. Now, a less traumatic surgical procedure offers fast and easy recovery. Coblation-assisted tonsillectomy provides a gentle alternative to traditional electrosurgery or laser, by combining radiofrequency (RF) energy with natural saline to gently and precisely dissolve the tonsils without damage to nearby tissues. Instead of burning or cutting, the technique gently breaks down the tonsil, under a cooling saline irrigation spray. Derived from “controlled ablation,” Coblation is not a heat-driven process, so it avoids the charring or burning that is common in conventional electrosurgery and in laser surgery. “Compared with traditional tonsillectomy, where a severe sore throat is typical for 5-7 days, using Coblation, I find patients usually return to a soft diet in 1-2 days, with most children only taking Tylenol for pain relief,” states Dr. Ofer Jacobowitz, M.D., Ph.D., an otolaryngologist who uses the Coblation technique to perform tonsillectomy procedures. Coblation-assisted tonsillectomy is a quick outpatient procedure that is performed in an operating room. The procedure is used for the treatment of frequent For more information or to find a physician, please call the Orange Regional Health Connection at 1-888-321-ORMC (1-888-321-6762). 6 forYOUR HEALTH / FALL 2004 thin catheter (tube) is passed through the vagina and cervix, and then placed gently into the uterus. No incision is required. • Fluid is then inserted into the balloon which inflates to the size and shape of the uterus. • The fluid is heated and circulated in the uterus for eight minutes while the lining of the uterus is treated. • When the treatment is completed, all the fluid is withdrawn from the balloon and the balloon is then removed. Nothing remains in the uterus. The treated uterine lining will slough off, or shed, like a period, over the next 7 to 10 days. Following treatment, most women (85%) can expect light to moderate peritonsillar infections and, even more comods, or possibly no periods at all. monly for treatment of obstructive sleep Recovery is fast, with most women apnea syndrome in children (see article returning to normal activities the next on page 22). day. Thermachoice Uterine Balloon Therapy is not a choice for women who still desire to have children. More than 1 in 5 women around the “I believe that this new technology, world suffer with excessive menstrual available for use by gynecologists at bleeding (menorrhagia). Women with Orange Regional, will be another choice heavy periods experience symptoms that for women who suffer from excessive may disrupt regular activities, result in bleeding. The procedure is effective in missed work days, and even fatigue, the overwhelming majority of cases, has shortness of breath and anemia. minimal down time and is a safer proceTraditionally, treatments have included dure than was previously used. Our goal drug therapy, dilation and curettage and commitment is to make available the (D&C), and hysterectomy. Now, a safe latest technologies at the local community and effective procedure, endometrial abla- level,” says an enthusiastic Dr. Lewis tion, reduces heavy bleeding in a vast Broslovsky, who specializes in obstetrics majority of women. and gynecology. Gynecare Thermachoice Uterine It is important for women who experiBalloon Therapy is used in one method ence menstrual bleeding that is heavier of endometrial ablation. It is a simple, than normal to speak with a doctor. There minimally invasive 30-minute procedure are a number of medical conditions that performed in the hospital with local anes- may cause or increase the chance of heavy thesia, and requires no hospital stay. The periods; hormonal imbalance, fibroids, procedure uses heat to treat the polyps, neoplasia, blood clotting disorders, endometrium (the mucous membrane and cancer. In cases where heavy periods that lines the inner surface of the uterus). are the result of a uterine abnormality like Unlike a hysterectomy, this allows women fibroids, a clotting disorder or cancer, to retain the uterus. treatment will be individualized to manage • A soft, flexible balloon attached to a those conditions first. Help for heavy periods Help for bladder control problems Arthritis pain? Orange Regional doctor gets hip t o i m p r o v e d surgery technique It’s an unfortunate fact that as we age, our bone joints suffer wear and tear, and sometimes injury, causing pain from arthritis and decreased function. Hip pain due to arthritis very often becomes unbearable and requires hip replacement surgery. Traditional hip replacement surgery usually involves an average of three months recovery and considerable pain for the patient. New instrumentation and a muscle-sparing surgical technique are allowing surgeons to place the same clinically proven hip implant used in traditional surgery through a 2 to 3 inch incision, as opposed to the 10 to 12 inch incision with traditional surgery. This new technique avoids cutting into muscles, ligaments and tendons, and allows patients back to work in 4 to 6 weeks, on average. “Patients that suffer from osteoarthritis of the hip may be candidates for this new procedure. I can help them understand the procedure and explore their options for regaining the lifestyle they once enjoyed,” said Dr. Eric Martin, an orthopedic surgeon and joint replacement specialist. WWW. ORMC.ORG For millions of people, bladder control problems cause embarrassment and frustration. Everyday life becomes complicated with fear of wetting accidents, carrying an extra change of clothes, and always having to know the location of bathrooms. For people who have tried medication therapy for bladder control problems without success, Orange Regional now offers a device that is surgically implanted to improve urinary control. Surgically placed under the skin, the Medtronic InterStim Therapy System uses mild electrical pulses to stimulate the sacral nerve, located in the lower back just above the tailbone. The sacral nerve influences the bladder and surrounding muscles that manage urinary function. The electrical stimulation helps eliminate or reduce certain bladder control symptoms in some people. “This is a valuable alternative for those patients who have continued difficulties with bladder control,” said urologist Dr. Gerard Galarneau, one of the physicians on staff at Orange Regional who is trained in this procedure. The Medtronic InterStim System uses mild electric pulses to stimulate the sacral nerve. UNDERSTANDING BLADDER CONTROL Poorly working nerves can lead to three different kinds of bladder control problems. Overactive bladder: Damaged nerves may send signals to the bladder at the wrong time, causing its muscles to squeeze without warning. Symptoms of overactive bladder include: • Urinary frequency - defined as urination eight or more times a day or two or more times at night. • Urinary urgency - the sudden, strong need to urinate immediately. • Urge incontinence - leakage of urine that follows a sudden, strong urge. Poor control of sphincter muscles: Sphincter muscles surround the urethra and keep it closed to hold urine in the bladder. If the nerves to the sphincter muscles are damaged, the muscles may become loose and allow leakage or stay tight when you are trying to release urine. Urine retention: For some people, nerve damage means that their bladder muscles do not get the message that it is time to release urine. If the bladder becomes too full, urine may back up and the increasing pressure may damage the kidneys. Or, urine that stays too long may lead to an infection in the kidneys or bladder. Urine retention may also lead to overflow incontinence. ORANGE REGIONAL MEDICAL CENTER 7 Community Personal Safety & Self Defense for Women Cesari, Ph.D., Crisis Response Instructor, knows that being Joanie informed about personal safety can save the life of any woman. Joanie, who has a doctorate in psychology and completed additional training through the Crisis Prevention Institute, teaches Personal Safety & Self Defense seminars at Orange Regional’s Community Health Education Center to empower and educate women about selfprotection and threat avoidance. Personal safety techniques are taught with a “hands-on” approach, reviewing appropriate responses in the event you are grabbed, choked and/or kicked, as well as how to block an attack with emphasis on escaping. Women practice yelling “Call 911”, Any time you are out in which is now advised instead of calling public, be aware of your out for help or fire, as it gives any surroundings: bystander exact directions on how to assist. Focus is also on a proper attitude ✓ Look around you and a state of awareness. For example, walking with your head down or being ✓ Make eye contact distracted on a cell phone in a parking lot Joanie Cesari ✓ Don’t wear a walkman makes you an easy target for becoming a ✓ Don’t talk on your cell phone victim. Some women may feel safe because they have a cell ✓ Be aware when putting phone, but it may not be accessible while you’re being attacked. Many women mistakenly believe that in order to protect packages in your trunk themselves, they have to be in top physical shape. “We can all learn something of value, at any age, any weight, any fitness level,” says Joanie. “Women in our society are taught to be accommodating about Orange Regional classes, and helpful, and are health screenings and support often caught off guard by those with groups, call The Orange Regional harmful intentions. I Health Connection toll-free at tell each woman that 1-888-321-ORMC her safety is her own (1-888-321-6762) responsibility. Don’t leave it up to others to assure your safety. Just being aware can make a difference,” she adds. SAFETY TIPS FOR INFORMATION 8 forYOUR HEALTH / FALL 2004 Outreach SUMMER HEALTH SERIES: Y2Kids: Career Expo The 5th Annual Y2Kids: Careers from A to Z was held on May 18 and 19 at the U.S. Army 2nd Aviation Detachment at Stewart International Airport in Newburgh. Career specialists from all fields shared their knowledge and experiences with approximately 4,000 students from local school districts. This program, coordinated by Orange-Ulster BOCES, gives kids the opportunity to explore, ask questions and gather information on possible career choices for the future. Amanda Santise, Public Relations Amanda Santise and Marketing Coordinator, served as Health Cluster Chairperson. Amanda was responsible for assuring local healthcare organizations’ participation as well as coordinating the Orange Regional staff that generously volunteered their time. Many thanks to the following Orange Regional Health Cluster participants: Toni Bolduc, Kelli Brink, Karen Harvey Chase, Larissa Equnova, Bill Fuchs, Donnell Hill, Jodi Jashembowski, Jennifer Mallon, Ruth McCoy, Jeanne Meilak, Harry Mitchell, Tina May Montanye, Joan Newman, JoAnne Noone, Sue Ellen Pascal, Toni Sardella, Edna Stachurski, Maure Waldman. At right, Maure Waldman, Kelli Brink and JoAnne Noone. WWW. ORMC.ORG Do You Know When to Come to the Emergency Department? Orange Regional’s Emergency Departments held two seminars in June, designed to introduce the community to the Emergency Department and provide information on what actions need to be taken in the event of a healthcare emergency. “Stroke, Chest Pain and Heat Stroke: Lifesaving Tips for Emergency Situations,” and, “Breaks, Bumps and Bites: Keys to Preventing and Treating Common Summer Ailments,” were presented at The Community Health Education Center in Middletown. Orange Regional emergency physicians Drs. Louis Allyne, Joanne Magro and Anthony Ruvo spoke at the seminars, as well as nurses from the Arden Hill and Horton campuses’ Emergency Departments. The programs received overwhelmingly positive feedback from the participants, who felt the information was easy to understand while being extremely informative. Skin Cancer Screening Orange Regional held free skin cancer screening clinics on June 17 and 18 at the Community Health Education Center. Of the 126 people screened, 86 required follow-up treatment. According to the American Cancer Society, risk factors for skin cancer include excessive exposure to ultraviolet radiation, fair complexion, severe childhood sunburns, family history and multiple moles. Prevention and early detection are the best weapons in the fight against skin cancer. Participating dermatologists included Drs. Jeffrey Bowden, Steven Fishman, Galia Meiri, Jay Weitzner and Francis Winski. ORANGE REGIONAL MEDICAL CENTER 9 Service Excellence, Making a difference... Meeting our patients’ needs... There are two complementary sides to customer service - interpersonal and technical. Orange Regional Medical Center acknowledges the importance of both sides of customer service and has been working to better meet our customers’ needs and expectations. The “softer side” of service involves how patients are greeted at the hospital, made comfortable, cared for and spoken with. Patients know the technical side of service by how things get done, such as wait times, ease of registration, accuracy of information, and ease of moving through the system. Moving from good to excellent... Orange Regional regularly surveys patients to find out how they rate their experience with the hospital. When we meet the patient’s expectations they typically rate us “good.” But that is not enough for the Emergency Departments (ED) at the Horton and Arden Hill campuses. They have been engaged in the Service Excellence, Every Patient, Every Time (SEE) initiative since January 2004 with the goal of providing service that is not just “good,” but “excellent.” And, their efforts are paying off. The patient satisfaction scores are improving in both Emergency Departments thanks to the efforts of staff, physicians and the staff of other supporting departments. On the softer side ... We understand that visiting any emergency department can be stressful. When patients come to our ED, they can count on our nursing staff and physicians to provide personalized care and emotional support. Our staff works hard to make you comfortable, from the time you arrive, until the time you leave. Our ED doctors and nurses encourage patients to ask questions and then answer them in a way that can be easily understood. We keep patients and their families informed about treatment and invite family members to be at the patient’s bedside. We care about what is important to our patients and their families. Debbie Szulewski, R.N., Emergency Department, Arden Hill Campus. 10 forYOUR HEALTH / FALL 2004 Technically speaking... The staff are reducing wait times for all patients, at all points of service in the Emergency Department, from registration, lab testing and x-ray completion, to reporting of test results and patient admission. Customer service does not stop with the clinical portion of patient care. We are working to provide assistance and ensure accuracy with the every patient, every time billing and insurance process (see “Your Financial Advocate” and “Patient Concierge” page 12). What our patients are saying... “Nursing staff went above and beyond. This is the best Emergency Department I’ve been to. Everyone was friendly and helpful.” “I can’t say enough. All my concerns were met professionally and efficiently.” “Better than New York City!” “They understood I missed my children. They understood my frustration. They provided me with a comfort beyond that of medicine - human comfort.” The rest of the organization... Orange Regional is expanding the customer service efforts being made in the Emergency Departments to the rest of the organization. Driving this culture change are the Executive Leadership, the SEE Steering Committee and several Service Excellence Teams. If you have compliments about the care you received, service-related suggestions or questions about the SEE initiative, please call Gwen Faust, Director of Customer Service at (845) 294-4723. The SEE Steering Committee (left to right): Mary Anne Clay, Nursing Director 2 North and Women’s Health Pavilion, AH campus; Lee McIntyre, Benefits Coordinator; Anne Nelson, Administrator of Cardiopulmonary and Diabetes Services; Gwen Faust, Director of Customer Service; Pat Rodrigue, Director of Radiation Oncology; Susan Heintz, Director of Human Resources; Debbie Linken, Director of Volunteer Services; Deborah Carr, Vice President of Human Resources; Bob Wolleben, Executive Vice President/Chief Operating Officer; Jonnie WesleyKrueger, Director of Training, Education & Development/Hospital Spokesperson; Simone Stein, Nursing Director Tower 5, Horton campus; Robert Lee, Administrator of Marketing & Public Relations; Susan Lofstedt, Controller; not pictured: John Roth, Director of Environmental Services, Patient Transport & Linen. WWW. ORMC.ORG Donna D’Alessandro, R.N., Emergency Department, Horton Campus. ORANGE REGIONAL MEDICAL CENTER 11 Service Excellence Here to Help: Your Financial Advocate B Patient Financial Advocates partner with the patient to determine grounds for denial and if subsequent corrective action can be taken. “Our financial specialists provide a huge advantage to patients by reviewing and verifying details of their healthcare coverage,” said Barbara Piascik, Administrator of Revenue Cycle Management. “Our emphasis is on providing an optimal experience for patients regarding their healthcare finances.” In 2003, Orange Regional Medical Center implemented a new computerized financial and clinical system designed to enhance the delivery of health care services to patients while improving the ability of physicians to access health information and manage patients’ care. Knowing that many hospitals nationwide have felt the downside of such system conversions, Orange Regional sought the assistance of Zimmerman, a leading company in the field of revenue cycle management, to redesign existing financial processes in order to achieve maximum benefit from the new system and enhance patient satisfaction. If you have questions about your bill, call 845-2942140. Patient Financial Advocates may be reached at 845-342-7136 (Horton campus) and 845-294-2103 (Arden Hill campus). Pre-Registration Representatives may be reached at 845-294-6566. ecause customer service is of paramount importance, Orange Regional now has dedicated Patient Financial Advocates available at the Arden Hill and Horton campuses and at the Orange Regional Medical Pavilion (formerly the Horton Medical Pavilion) to assist patients with financial aspects of their medical care. Additionally, an entire team of Pre-Registration Representatives is on hand to pre-register patients prior to their visit. The Financial Advocates and Pre-Registration Representatives provide a collaborative approach with patients. These professionals make sure insurance benefits are verified and discussed with patients, financial obligations of co-pays and deductibles are verified and communicated and, if the patient does not have insurance, charity care and financial assistance opportunities are examined. Patient The Patient Concierge Program is a perfect example of how Orange Financial Advocates also educate and Regional is working to improve the patient experience. If diagnostic testing assist patients with applications for such as an MRI or CT scan is needed, participating physicians’ offices New York State insurance programs, notify the Patient Concierge Program. Upon receipt of your faxed presuch as Medicaid, Child Health Plus scription, Patient Concierge representatives will call your insurance comand Family Health Plus. They also pany to get authorization for the testing. They will then call you to schedhelp patients identify crime victim ule your appointment, pre-register you and provide you with instructions assistance, financial resources, and regarding test preparation. There’s no paperwork to bring to your alternative payment options. In the appointment. You’ll be in and out in no time. For more information about the Patient Concierge program or a list of event an insurance claim is denied, participating physicians, call Dawn Zawaski, Support Services Supervisor at 845-343-2424, extension 3165. Patient Concierge Program 12 forYOUR HEALTH / FALL 2004 You know the feeling...chills, headache, and muscle Thinking Twice About a Flu Shot? Get the facts, not the chills Orange Regional Community Flu Clinic The Community Health Education Center 110 Crystal Run Road, Middletown No appointment necessary *Flu shots will not be given to anyone under 18 years of age Monday, October 25, 8 am to 5 pm Tuesday, October 26, 8 am to 5 pm Wednesday, October 27, 12 pm to 8 pm Thursday, October 28, 12 pm to 8 pm aches that leave you glued to your bed. Flu (influenza) season is fast approaching. The flu is a contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses, and can result in mild to severe symptoms, and life-threatening complications. An estimated 1020% of U.S. residents get the flu each year: an average of 114,000 people are hospitalized for flu-related complications and 36,000 Americans die each year from complications of flu. The good news is that the flu vaccine can prevent influenza. That’s why Orange Regional will be offering flu shots to keep you healthy. Frequently Asked Questions: Who should get a flu vaccination? • People 50 years of age and older • People with long term health problems such as heart, lung, kidney or metabolic disease (such as diabetes), asthma, and anemia • People with a weakened immune system due to HIV/AIDS or another disease that affects the immune system, long term treatment with drugs such as steroids or cancer treatments with drugs or x-rays • Women who will be pregnant during the influenza season • Physicians, nurses, family members or anyone else coming in contact with people at risk of serious influenza • Anyone who wants to reduce their chance of catching influenza. Do I need to speak with my doctor before I get a flu shot? Talk to your physician before getting a flu shot if you: • Have had a serious allergic reaction to eggs or to a previous dose of influenza vaccine • Have a history of Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS). If you are sick with a fever and thinking of getting a flu shot, talk to your doctor or nurse to see if you should get your shot at a later date. However, you can get a flu shot at the same time you have a respiratory illness without fever or if you have another mild illness. Does flu vaccine work right away? It takes about two weeks after vaccination for antibodies to develop in the body and provide protection against influenza virus infection. What are possible side effects? Soreness, redness, or swelling where the shot was given; fever (low grade); and/or aches. If these occur, they begin soon after the shot and usually last 1-2 days. Life-threatening allergic reactions are very rare. Signs of serious allergic reaction can include breathing problems, hoarseness or wheezing, hives, paleness, weakness, a fast heartbeat, or dizziness. If they do occur, it is within a few minutes to a few hours after the shot. Source - Centers for Disease Control WWW. ORMC.ORG ORANGE REGIONAL MEDICAL CENTER 13 Foundation U P D AT E THE ACT OF CHARITY Robert DeValentino, President of the Foundation, was presented with a donation from Shai, Tali and Liav Ben-Dor, grandchildren of Sue Ben-Dor, MS, AHIT, Orange Regional’s Medical Librarian. In learning about the act of charity, the children periodically donate a portion of their savings to a charity or cause of their choice. Past recipients of their thoughtful giving include United Way and the Marlboro Soup Kitchen. With assistance from their parents, Eldad and René Ben-Dor, the children voted this time to give their gift to the medical scholarship being established in memory of Dr. Robert Steinberg, a beloved oncologist and member of Orange Regional’s Medical Staff (see Scholarship at right). BOWL-A-THON WRAP-UP As our last issue of “Your Health” went to press, proceeds received from the Bowl-a-Thon were reported at $10,113. We are now pleased to announce a grand total of $12,408 was raised for the new Diagnostic Cardiac Cath Lab! Thank you one and all for your support of the 2004 Bowl-a-Thon. Pictured: Beverly Neiger, Bowl-a-Thon Grand Prize Winner for the most money raised ($516), presented her prize of a $1,000 travel voucher to her very surprised co-worker, Marilyn Lopez. Marilyn is now able to travel to Puerto Rico to visit her parents whom she hasn’t seen in a very long time. Thank you, Beverly, for your caring heart. HORTON AUXILIARY PAVES THE WAY “Thank you” to the Horton Medical Center Auxiliary for their contribution of $8,155 which provided funding to pave the driveway of their Thrift Shop at 80 Prospect Avenue, and that of Orange Regional’s offices housed at 82 Prospect. (Be sure to stop in the Thrift Shop to take advantage of their vast array of men’s, women’s and children’s clothing, jewelry/accessories, housewares and much more. Thrift Shop Hours: Tuesday - Friday, 12:00 noon - 3:30 pm.) CORRECTION: On page 19 of the Summer 2004 issue of “Your Health,” we reported a $60,000 donation from the Orange Regional Medical Center Foundation to the Jeanne Jonas Mental Health Unit at the Arden Hill Campus. However, we omitted that the donation was in honor of Mr. Al Wiley, past Foundation Trustee. 14 forYOUR HEALTH / FALL 2004 ROBERT STEINBERG, M.D. MEDICAL EDUCATION SCHOLARSHIP A medical education scholarship is being established in memory of Dr. Robert Steinberg, a member of the Orange Regional Medical staff and devoted physician whose courageous battle with cancer ended at the age of 35. As was expressed in an earlier issue of “For Your Health,” Dr. Steinberg was a physician who always placed his patients above all else, practicing high-quality medicine even when battling his own terminal illness. Though Dr. Steinberg’s tenure at Orange Regional was not long in terms of years, he left an indelible legacy of compassion and empathy in the lives of his patients, their families, his colleagues and all of his Orange Regional Family. In the words of his friend and colleague, Dr. Tom Eanelli of Catskill Radiation Oncology Consultants, “There are many lessons Rob left us, none of which is more important than what a privilege and honor it is to be given the responsibility to care for the sick.” To honor Dr. Steinberg and provide a meaningful and lasting tribute, Orange Regional’s Medical Staff and Board of Directors have initiated plans to establish a medical education scholarship to be awarded to a student accepted into medical school in the field of medicine or surgery. The financial and scholarship guidelines are currently being developed and will be announced upon their completion. The corpus of the Scholarship is being funded through donations. The Orange Regional Board of Directors and the Medical Staff have each contributed $20,000 to the scholarship fund. Anyone wishing to make a donation to the scholarship fund may do so by sending their tax-deductible check, made payable to the Robert Steinberg, M.D. Scholarship Fund, to Orange Regional Medical Center Foundation, 4 Harriman Drive, Medical Arts #2, Goshen, NY 10924. THANKFUL TO BENEFACTORS It is with sincere appreciation that Orange Regional Foundation recognizes gifts from the following concerned individuals who chose to remember Orange Regional in their wills: James and Pauline Stewart $ 84,794 Helen Benkowski $132,607 L. Wallace Blanchard $ 25,000 The foresight and altruism of these friends will help Orange Regional continue to provide expanded medical services and enhance our health care programs. Please contact the Foundation Office at 845-294-2135 to learn how you can make a bequest. Continued on page 18 GOLF CLASSIC Scores Hole-In-One $217,000 raised for Orange Regional’s Comprehensive Cancer Care Services Monday, June 21, 2004 dawned as close to a perfect day for golf and charity that one could ask for. At the Orange County Golf Club in Middletown and Otterkill Golf and Country Club in Campbell Hall, golf carts were lined up and ready to carry the 245 golfers participating in the 13th Annual Golf Classic on their round of golf. The day climaxed at the Otterkill site as players and guests enjoyed a delicious golfers’ hour and buffet, applauded as golfers’ awards and raffle prizes were distributed, and listened attentively to the poignant message of this year’s Honorary Co-chairs, Bill and Diane Ruggles. Bill and Diane expressed enthusiasm and gratitude to the supporters of this annual event benefiting Orange Regional Medical Center’s comprehensive cancer care program and shared publicly, for the first time, why they have been staunch supporters of this annual event and why they accepted this year’s chairmanship. “Assuring that quality cancer care is available close to home has become one of the major focuses in our lives. It is a cause that we feel deeply committed to, for nothing cuts through, captures and brings into absolute clarity the importance of being able to receive quality cancer care near your home than when someone you love needs treatment. In our case, that someone was our beautiful and brave son, Jonathan. That is why we are honored to join with Orange Regional Medical Center in support of their continued commitment to provide the highest level of care to cancer patients and their families without the need to travel for treatment. It is worth every bit of our effort and focus.” The proceeds from this year’s Golf Classic will provide the “capstone addition” to the Intensity Modulated Radiation Therapy program IMPAC, a record and verify system that provides the vital link between our treatment planning software and the linear accelerator at our two sites: The Eleanor T. Snow Radiation Oncology Center at the Orange Regional Medical Pavilion (formerly the Horton Medical Pavilion) in Middletown; and the Goshen Radiation Oncology Center. A heartfelt thanks to one and all - our sponsors, golfers, raffle contributors - for your thoughtful and generous support of this year’s Golf Classic. Special thanks, also, to our volunteers who play an integral role in the success of this important fundraising endeavor. In closing, we wish to recognize the Horton Medical Center Auxiliary for their generous philanthropic support as this year’s Tournament Sponsor and their ongoing support of Orange Regional Medical Center. WWW. ORMC.ORG ORANGE REGIONAL MEDICAL CENTER 15 DOUBLE TRUCK 16 forYOUR HEALTH / FALL 2004 E WWW. ORMC.ORG ORANGE REGIONAL MEDICAL CENTER 17 Intensity Modulated Radiation Therapy Program Timeline 1991 In , a dedicated group of physicians, hospital employees and community volunteers initiated the first of what was to become tremendously successful golf tournaments to benefit oncology services at Horton Medical Center. Concurrently, volunteers were busy at Arden Hill Hospital sponsoring golf tournaments to provide needed funding for a variety of equipment and healthcare needs. Recognizing the importance of providing expanded oncology services at both campuses, a decision was made by what is now the merged Orange Regional Medical Center Foundation to host one Golf Classic that would benefit Orange Regional’s comprehensive cancer program. For the last two years, the annual Golf Classic has benefited the hospital’s Intensity Modulated Radiation Therapy (IMRT) program. 2002 Acquisition of IMRT. Orange Regional is the first hospital in the Hudson Valley to implement IMRT. We are able to treat cancer with high doses of therapeutic radiation with pinpoint accuracy, resulting in improved clinical outcomes and minimal side effects. 2003 Expansion of IMRT program allowed for the most effective treatment of additional disease sites, including prostate, breast, and head and neck cancer - treatment that previously could only be obtained by traveling to distant institutions . . . Opening of Goshen Radiation Oncology. Patients are now able to receive the highest quality of radiation therapy at both the Orange Regional Medical Pavilion in Middletown and 70 Hatfield Lane in Goshen. 2004 The “capstone addition” - a state-of-theart record and verify system serving both the Middletown and Goshen sites. This system, known as IMPAC, provides the vital link between our treatment planning software and the linear accelerator, which delivers the radiation. In addition to providing a communication between treatment planning and the accelerator, this software will provide connectivity between our two sites. The end result is a united patient database that will allow for enhanced communications for patient management between physicians, physicists, radiation therapists, and our nursing staff. Also, this system will ensure that each of the three-hardware/software components is able to keep pace with the complexities of this constantly evolving technology. 18 forYOUR HEALTH / FALL 2004 Foundation Update from page 14 Borland Joins Foundation Board of Trustees Orange Regional Medical Center Foundation is pleased to welcome John W. Borland as a new member of its Board of Trustees. Mr. Borland is President and CEO of the Orange County Trust Company, a $390 million independently owned community bank, headquartered in Middletown. Mr. Borland joined the Bank in 1981 and became its President and CEO in 1991. An active member in many business and community organizations, John’s business and community affiliations include membership on SUNY Orange Educational Foundation, a member and Past President of the Orange County Bankers Association, Vice President and Treasurer, Orange County Industrial Expansion Corp., Vice President, Orange County Industrial Development Agency, member of the Middletown High School Academy of Finance and member and past president of the Middletown Rotary Club. He has also served on the Board of Directors of St. Theresa’s Nursing Home, the Volunteer Center of Orange County, the Arts Council of Orange County and the Orange County Chamber of Commerce Retention Committee. John has been an active supporter of the Foundation’s Annual Golf Classic. In 2001 he served as the Tournament’s Honorary Chairman, as well as Chair of the Tournament’s first Blue Ribbon Fundraising Committee - a fundraising effort involving a volunteer group of community business leaders. Over $40,000 was raised by the Blue Ribbon Committee. In Loving Remembrance J ohn Schneider, along with family members and friends, recently visited The Tucker Center for Cancer Care, Horton campus, to present a $2,500 gift in memory of his wife, Judie. When presenting the check to Jerry Dunlavey, Director of Rehabilitation and Oncology Services, Mr. Schneider said, “Judie always believed that it was her duty to help others whenever she could. Through this donation from her family, her friends, and her co-workers at CRS Retail Systems, we hope to keep Judie’s spirit and beliefs alive by allowing her to continue her work of assisting those in need. Our thanks go out to the staff at the Tucker Center and to Dr. Jeffrey Stewart and his staff for the care and support they gave to Judie and continue to give to others.” gy o l o n h ec T w e N PET/CT provides detailed 3-D images for cancer detection Orange Regional Medical Center has added revolutionary technology to its list of diagnostic resources - combined PET (Positron Emission Tomography) and CT (Computed Tomography) fusion imaging. Separately, the PET and CT scanners serve as powerful cancer-detecting tools. Used in combination, the technology becomes state-of-the-art. The clinical imaging applications for PET/CT are the same as those for PET, including lung, breast, colorectal, esophageal, and head and neck cancer, as well as lymphoma and melanoma. It is also useful in the diagnosis and staging of other cancers, such as ovarian, pancreatic, and thyroid. PET/CT fused images will also be used in radiation therapy treatment planning. The PET/CT images, when used for the purpose of treatment planning, can identify additional tumor volume, resulting in an even better treatment plan. Another benefit of PET/CT is that if a patient has had a recent CT at Orange Regional, we may be able to use the original CT in the fusion process and eliminate the need for a second CT when the PET is ordered. How does it work? A PET scan captures minute chemical and physiological changes related to metabolism. This technology is crucial because function changes are often present before structural changes in tissue. A CT scan is a special type of X-ray that can produce detailed anatomical pictures of structures inside of the body, particularly useful in determining the precise location of abnormalities. A CT scanner produces a detailed picture of a ‘slice’ of an organ or area that is much clearer than regular x-rays. A CT scan is used to obtain information about the body’s organs, blood vessels, abdominal cavity, bones, and the spinal cord. When the technologies are used together, as in PET/CT, identically aligned patient images are captured from both machines. Once merged, the images provide valuable information about cellular abnormaliWWW. ORMC.ORG ties and show the precise anatomical location of the scanned area. Clinical experience clearly shows that PET/CT images provide valuable information that can be used for early diagnosis, more accurate tumor detection and precise localization, improved biopsy sampling, and better assessment of patient responses to chemotherapy and radiation therapy. “This leading-edge technology will make a substantial impact on patient care,” says Gene Bernieri, CRA, Director of Diagnostic Imaging at Orange Regional. “The combination PET/CT gives us the best of both worlds. The ability to fuse these images in one system gives us unparalleled views inside the human body, including detailed images of cancerous tumors.” What happens during the scanning? You must not eat anything four to six hours prior to your scan. When you arrive for your scan, a technologist will administer an injection of a radioisotope to help the scanning machine “see” inside your body. This drug has no side effects and will quickly be eliminated from your system. During the scan, you will lie still on a comfortable table that moves through the PET scanner. You should not feel anything from the scan because the scanner is shaped like a ring and does not touch your body. You should allow about two hours for the procedure. The scan itself will last approximately 30 minutes. When the scan is complete, you may leave and should be able to eat and drink immediately. Your specialist will thoroughly review your results and communicate with your primary care physician, who will discuss them with you. To schedule a PET/CT Fusion scan, please call 1 (866) ORMC-TEST (1-866-676-2837). If you have any questions about PET/CT, please call Nuclear Medicine Supervisor, Kevin McCormack at (845) 342-7634. ORANGE REGIONAL MEDICAL CENTER 19 Orange Regional All-Stars 2ND QUARTER 2004 ALL-STARS D. Ahearn, R. Ahearn, P. Asdal, S. Babcock, M. Bacigalupi, S. Bailey, K. Balanovich, M. Barbosa, E. Beairsto, M. A. Beatty, L. Bell, M. Belzie, D. Bequette, A. Betro, R. Bishop, J. Black, L. Blumenstein, Z. Boniface, E. Boyd, Ja. Brown, Jo. Brown, R. Browne, M. Bruce, L. Burns, M. Byrons, C. Canzoneri, M. Cavazzini, J. Cesari, B. Cherry, W. Cipriani, C. Clemmer, B. Cocuzza, L. Colgan, K. Conklin, A.M. Cortese, P. Cronin, L. Crosson, P. DeWitt, M. Dick, L. Donoghue, K. Downes, C. Drew, W. Duchesne, D. Epstein,V. Fiero, M. Fox,V. Garrison, J. Grabowski, J. Grimm, J. Handford,T. Harris, R. Herrmann, A. Higginson, B. Hosking,T. Hufcut, S. Isabella, C. Jones, S. Joslyn, E. Kelly, P. Kerrigan, S. Krause, E. Kurdyla, L. Lanfear, R. Leinpinsel,V. Lewis, A. Lleras, M. Lubniewski, W. Mack, J. Mahusky, M. McCann-Karl, S. McClinsey,T. McCooey, C. McGinnis, K. McMahon, F. Medvedev, M. Mercado, H. Mitchell, J. Moore, D. Morgan, K. Mosca, G. Muise, M. Murphy, M. Neuhaus, M. Newell, S. Palmer, J. Panto, G. Parks, J. Petrillo, F. Ralph, J. Rappa,T. Reidy, G. Reyes, L. Ricardo-Torres, C. Robinson, K. Rodriguez, S. Rodriguez,Y. Rodriguez, I. Rosenshine, A. Ross, A. Santise, N. Schwartz, L. Semmeles, M. Sheehan, L. Simek, B. Sirois, R. Skoda, B. Smith, M.A. Smith, M. Smith, M. Spadafora, C. Stangenberg, C. Stanley, A. Stout, D. Strysko, A. Swensen,T. Teaney, M.Thorpe, C.Tremper, K.Tulley, M.Vasquez, A.M. Vavricka, N. Waldmann, B. Wansor, J. Watkins, E. Weber, L. Weber, J. Wesley-Krueger, R. Wilson and C. Woods. 20 forYOUR Second Quarter Honorees Orange Regional Medical Center’s greatest asset is our complement of employees and volunteers. Their dedication, expertise, involvement and commitment enable us to provide the highest quality healthcare and services to our patients. We’re proud to announce the STAR recipients listed below, for the months of April, May and June of 2004. SHOOTING STAR - APRIL Regina Dexter Secretary, Diagnostic Imaging Gina “gets it.” She embraces the concept of the Orange Regional “Team.” It is no easy task to serve the large department that is Diagnostic Imaging, but she works diligently to make the department “shine.” She takes great pride in her work and consistently displays excellent attention to detail. GUIDING STAR - MAY Arlene Heitzmann, R.N. Nursing Director, 1 North, Arden Hill campus Arlene exhibits professionalism and strong leadership skills, while supporting her staff with empathy and encouragement. Arlene has shouldered the additional responsibility of Interim Nursing Director of Tower 4 at the Horton campus since September 2003 with unwavering dedication. The Tower 4 Staff applaud her accomplishments. SHOOTING STAR - MAY Margaret Swyka, R.N. Post Anesthesia Recovery, Horton campus Maggie is always supportive, cheerful, kind and helpful and possesses all the qualities of a Shooting Star. Maggie, a Certified Post Anesthesia nurse, has it all - professional excellence, a positive demeanor to those around her, and compassion for her patients. Yearly, during the holiday season, she makes gifts for sick employees and volunteers. SHOOTING STAR - JUNE Robert Blake Courier, Security Department “Blakey,” as everyone knows him, never says that something can’t be done. He adjusts his schedule, any time, any day, to make sure that staff members get what they need on time. His flexibility, timeliness, consistency and, above all, his willingness to assist show that Blakey has a TEAM attitude that exemplifies the true meaning of the word. Orange Regional encourages employees to enroll in higher education, and offers a generous tuition reimbursement program. An Education fair was held in June with representatives on hand from Orange-Ulster BOCES, SUNY Orange, SUNY New Paltz, Marist College, Mount St. Mary College, New York Medical College, Fordham University, Empire State College, and University of Phoenix. Special thanks to Joanie Cesari and Elizabeth Steinberg of Training, Education and Development for coordinating the event! HEALTH / FALL 2004 Top Notch Orange Regional Medical Center recognizes the value of its employees. These men and women are our very essence ... their faces and names are remembered long after patients return home. Out of all who contribute to the health and welfare of our patients, the Star of the Year, Employee of the Year, and Nurse of Distinction Awards repre sent the utmost in compas sion, dedication to high standards and professional ism. We are proud to have these outstanding individuals among our staff. Congratulations to all! John Petrillo, R.N. of the Operating Room at the Horton campus, was recognized at the Employee Service Awards Dinner for 40 years of service. Of note, John received the Nurse of Distinction Award in 1997. Service Excellence To join an organization committed to service excellence, visit our website, www.ormc.org and click on “Careers”, or call the Recruitment Office in Human Resources at 845-342-7190. WWW. ORMC.ORG in 2003 STAR OF THE YEAR - ARDEN HILL CAMPUS Theresa Roche, R.N. Theresa Roche, a Registered Nurse in the Pediatric Department since 1979, is our 2003 Star of the Year. Theresa was chosen to receive the Award for her care of a terminally ill child in preparation for a Make A Wish Foundation sponsored trip to Florida. In addition to caring for the child and her family, Theresa procured the necessary supplies to keep the child comfortable. Theresa is also commended for her dedication to her job, having often worked extra hours to fill vacant shifts during staffing shortages. EMPLOYEE OF THE YEAR - HORTON CAMPUS Rhonda Gorish, O.T. An Orange Regional Family member since 1981, Rhonda began her career in Inpatient Rehabilitation Services at the Horton campus, while attending school to become an Occupational Therapy Assistant and later, an Occupational Therapist. Rhonda goes above and beyond for patients and their families; nothing is too much. She is a true inspiration to her coworkers, motivating them to work as a team. NURSE OF DISTINCTION - ARDEN HILL CAMPUS Virginia Kirkwood, R.N. Ginger, Charge Nurse in the Emergency Department, is known as a critical thinker, who can handle any situation that arises. She acts as a mentor to new staff and takes genuine pride in their success. An Orange Regional Family member for twenty years, she is steadfast in her delivery of excellent nursing care. NURSE OF DISTINCTION - HORTON CAMPUS Patricia Martini, R.N. Pat provides consistent nursing care to all her patients and assists her colleagues in meeting patient care needs. The staff of Tower 4 know that when they need help, she can be counted on to willingly share her vast knowledge. Pat has been recognized many times in letters of thanks from patients and their families. ORANGE REGIONAL MEDICAL CENTER 21 HeartBeat Help for Snoring & Sleep Apnea Obstructive sleep apnea syndrome (OSAS) is a complex disease, where narrowing or blockage of the airway occurs repeatedly, causing disruption of sleep, resulting in daytime sleepiness, depression, headaches, and memory and concentration problems. OSAS is especially dangerous because it is directly associated with high blood pressure, heart attack, heart irregularities, and congestive heart failure. Fortunately, there are treatment options. sleep apnea, are devices placed in the mouth at night in order to advance the lower jaw or stabilize the tongue and keep the airway open. A CPAP (continuous positive airway pressure) device delivers pressurized air via a mask into the nose or mouth which keeps the airway from collapsing. CPAP must be used every night. It is very effective if used, but actual compliance rates are only 60-70%. Surgery is a good option for young patients, or for those who do not tolerate CPAP and are not morbidly obese. What is OSAS? The evaluation for patients who have OSAS and are considerWhile we are awake, the upper airway (throat) is like a rigid ing surgery includes an office exam with fiberoptic endoscopy by pipe and stays wide open. In patients with sleep apnea, during an otolaryngologist. “Depending on where the throat appears to sleep, the airway resembles a thin straw. On collapse, I perform upper and or lower probreathing inward, the straw collapses on itself cedures to stabilize the airway. I prepare If you suspect sleep apnea, and there is no flow. This causes the sleeper speak with your doctor, or call patients to expect considerable throat soreto wake up as the brain senses that breathing ness and that a liquid-soft diet will be needto schedule a sleep study: has stopped. With severe sleep apnea, this ed for two weeks,” reports Dr. Ofer The Center for may happen 30-60 times an hour. Jacobowitz, M.D., Ph.D., an otolaryngoloSleep Medicine How do I know I have sleep apnea? gist who specializes in obstructive sleep Arden Hill Campus Chances are, you won’t know you have apnea. “It’s certainly worth undergoing sursleep apnea unless your bed partner has comgery, when you look at the benefit to your 4 Harriman Drive, plained to you. Basic signs of sleep apnea overall health. There is also hope for those Goshen, New York include loud snoring, irregular or halted who snore but do not have sleep apnea. 845-294-4857 breathing, frequent awakening, excessive dayThey can be treated in the office using Your overnight evaluation at time sleepiness or sleep that does not refresh. proven techniques,” he adds. The Center for Sleep Medicine For more information, speak with your What treatment options are available? will be performed in a restful physician. For a physician referral, call the Weight loss will help many patients, setting, with private bedrooms, Orange Regional Health Connection at although probably not completely. Oral applibathrooms and television. 1-888-321-ORMC (1-888-321-6762). ances, effective for most patients with mild Marcy’s Apple Crisp Serves 8 ~ Ingredients: Filling: 4-6 lbs. apples 1/3 cup water Directions: Set oven to 350 degrees. Peel and core all apples. Slice and place in a 2 quart baking dish. Mound apples. Add water.Work crumb topping ingredients with your fingers and sprinkle over apples. Bake 1 hour to 1 hour and 15 minutes or until golden brown. Nutritional information: Per serving (1 wedge) 285 calories 1.5 grams protein 9 grams fat 22 forYOUR HEALTH / FALL 2004 Crumb topping: 3/4 cups flour 1/2 cup sugar 3/4 stick margarine 1 teaspoon cinnamon 52.5 grams carbohydrates 0 mg cholesterol 79.2 mg sodium Pavilion EGX P A N S I O N ets Green Light O range Regional Medical Center’s proposal for an 83,000 square foot expansion of the existing Orange Regional Medical Pavilion (formerly the Horton Medical Pavilion), was approved on July 6th by the Town of Wallkill. The expansion will include both hospital clinical services and physician office space. This consolidation of outpatient services at the Pavilion site is the first step towards single site consolidation and the development of a new hospital facility. This expansion WWW. ORMC.ORG will allow Orange Regional to strengthen and grow existing outpatient programs to best serve current and projected market needs. Orange Regional and Westage Companies, the project developer, are proceeding with the design plans and expect to begin construction this fall. The proposed clinical programs for this expansion include: • Expanded Ambulatory Surgery • Fixed Open MRI • Cardiac and Diabetes Services • Wound Care Center • Urgent Care • Nuclear Medicine ORANGE REGIONAL MEDICAL CENTER 23 Orange Regional Honors Junior Volunteers F Left to right: Director of Volunteer Services, Debbie Linken, Kelly Moltzen, Kathleen (mom), and Stephen (dad). Left to right: Debbie Linken (mom); Ashley Linken; Rick (dad); and sister, Rachel. our Orange Regional junior volunteers were honored at a reception and scholarship presentation in June. Scholarships are awarded each year to graduating high school seniors who have a minimum of 100 hours of service at one of our facilities. To qualify, junior volunteers must write an essay, complete an application, and have plans to continue their education following graduation. A selection committee reviews the applications and determines the winner. “Each one of our junior volunteers holds so much potential. Maybe some of them will come back to us as doctors or nurses in the future,” said Alanna Smith, Orange Regional Board of Directors Chair. Please join us in congratulating the following scholarship recipients: Since the year 2000, Elizabeth Elliott has given 600 hours of service, in many areas of the hospital. Liz attended Valley Central High School and will be attending Daemen College in Amherst, New York. Eric Johnson (not pictured) began volunteering at Orange Regional in June 2000, working in the Nutrition Services department, for a total of 337 hours. Eric graduated from Warwick High School and will be attending SUNY New Paltz. Ashley Linken has volunteered in most areas of the hospital and on many special projects, giving 1,100 hours of service. Ashley attended Cornwall Central High School and will be attending SUNY Albany. From June 2001 to August 2002, Kelly Moltzen volunteered in the Pharmacy, Coffee Shop and on the Nursing Units, giving 150 hours of service. Kelly graduated from Monroe-Woodbury High School and will be attending the University of Delaware. VOLUNTEERS...MAKING A DIFFERENCE Left to right: Debbie Linken, Mamie (Elizabeth's mom), Elizabeth Elliott, Irene Moore (grandmom), and Chip (dad). 24 forYOUR HEALTH / FALL 2004 Volunteer opportunities abound at Orange Regional Medical Center, whether you’re a junior, a senior, or in-between. Whether you have specialized skills or simply wish to offer a special personal touch, you’re welcome to join our team. If you’d like to give a gift beyond measure - the gift of yourself - please call Debbie Linken, Director of Volunteer Services at 845-294-5441 ext. 4654 or Lisa Ritchie, Manager of Volunteer Services at 845-342-7145. Orange Regional Medical Center PICNIC 2004 Orange Regional Family Members enjoyed good company, games, food and fun at the Annual Orange Regional Medical Center Picnic on Saturday, July 31, 2004 at Circleville Park. WWW. ORMC.ORG ORANGE REGIONAL MEDICAL CENTER 25 People Doing More Marianne Sciucco, R.N., of Case Management, is committed to nursing. Marianne represented Orange Regional and the nursing profession in June at Maple Hill Elementary School’s 6th Annual Career Day, in Middletown. More than 1,200 students, grades 2-5 participated. Marianne explained how to become a nurse, the many different career paths in nursing, medical equipment used in nursing, and quizzed children on their knowledge of the workings of the human body. Kristine O’Leary, R.N., O.C.N., has been appointed Director of Cardiology. Kris began her career with Orange Regional in 1993 as a Registered Nurse at the Arden Hill campus. She served as Manager of The Tucker Center for Cancer Care from 2000 to 2003. In 2003 she became Project Manager of Nursing Clinical Information Systems, working to implement the clinical aspect of the Cerner computer system. Darlene Tomlinson, R.N. has been appointed Nursing Director of Tower 4 at the Horton campus. Darlene has extensive experience in Medical-Surgical and Critical Care Nursing, as well as Nursing Informatics (a combination of computer science, information science and nursing science designed to assist in the management and processing of nursing data, information and knowledge to support the practice of nursing and the delivery of nursing care). Darlene earned her Masters Degree from New York University. Dawn Zawaski was promoted to Diagnostic Imaging Support Services Supervisor. In her new capacity, Dawn supervises centralized scheduling, transcription (including voice technology), reception, and all clerical functions for Diagnostic Imaging, at the Arden Hill and Horton campuses, and eight offsite locations in Liberty, Middletown, Goshen and Monroe. Assisting Dawn is Beth Fairweather, Assistant Support Services Supervisor, whose prime focus is the Goshen area locations and the Orange Regional Medical Pavilion (formerly the Horton Medical Pavilion). Melody Zolendjeski was promoted to X-Ray Supervisor and is responsible for the direct supervision of all Orange Regional radiographic areas. Melody began her career with Orange Regional 26 years ago and has demonstrated outstanding leadership qualities. Most recently, she led the Radnet Cerner install project for Diagnostic Imaging, educating over 200 Orange Regional employees, and designing new and improved work flow processes that have provided us with the foundation to make major productivity gains for years to come. Congratulations to Carol Maltais, Cliff Miller, Crissy Salogub and Sandy Clinton, of Orange Regional Laboratory Services, who have completed coursework for their Registered Nursing degrees. John Bilancione has accepted the position of H*Works Project Manager/EMS Liaison. In this role he will coordinate and facilitate the implementation of the customer service initiatives in the Emergency Department. John previously served as Emergency Department Supervisor and Clinical Supervisor. 26 forYOUR HEALTH / FALL 2004 Martha Hall, R.N., B.S.N., C.C.R.N., is Director of Orange Regional’s new Cardiac Catheterization Lab.“I’ve lived here since childhood and to me, it’s very exciting that Orange Regional is able to bring this new level of service to the community,” says Martha. She has extensive experience in open heart surgery and cardiac catheterization nursing. See page 3 - Cardiac Catheterization Lab. Melissa Druke received her Certificate in Case Management (CCM) in June. Case Management now has 90% of its staff Certified in Case Management. The students of the Valley Central High School Science Research Program dedicated their Annual Science Research Symposium to Sue Ben-Dor, Orange Regional Medical Librarian. Sue conducts a seminar for the students each fall, which teaches skills related to searching efficiently for materials and how to access valuable professional databases.Throughout the year, Sue fulfills the Program’s requests for inter-library loan articles and provides guidance to students. Congratulations to Susan Zanetti, Lisa Enright, and Debbie Biondi for completing the JA Thomas Clinical Documentation Management Program (CDMP) Training in June. The multi-disciplinary CDMP team works to facilitate accurate and timely documentation that reflects both patient acuity and resources utilized. NEWS flash: Planning for Single Site Construction Begins The Orange Regional Executive Team held a meeting in June to initiate the planning process for the development of a new hospital facility through single site consolidation. Dennis and Ann Moser of DRMA Consultants have been engaged to assist with facilitation of the planning process.The objective of the kickoff meeting was to define the initial planning process that will be undertaken and to identify key data elements that are necessary to adequately define a new facility for Orange Regional.The next few months will see analysis of size of the new facility, and definition of the scope of services.The process will involve Orange Regional staff, as well as community input. Steps will include: demand and need analyses; identification of programs, services and departments; preparation of volume projections for all clinical and support services and development of space allocations by program, service and department. Once the preliminary numbers are developed, the next step will be a Visioning Process involving the Board of Directors, Medical Staff leadership and management. The visioning will involve brainstorming to identify our overall expectations for a new hospital that will not only meet the health care needs of our community in the near future, but well into the 21st Century. Orange Regional is now in the small, elite group of medical centers that offer over 95% filmless Diagnostic Imaging services. The Picture Archive Communication System (PACS) provides clearer images, at all Orange Regional sites, and allows physicians to access patient’s test results much faster, in 4 to 6 hours. Lightning Flash! On a stormy Tuesday evening in May, the family of expectant mom, Melissa Mazzeo, had an encounter with nature that few of us do. While eating dinner, their home was struck by lightning and caught on fire, which ultimately contributed to the early arrival of a healthy baby boy. Melissa was understandably distressed upon her premature arrival at the Women’s Health Pavilion at the Arden Hill campus. However, she reports, “The staff were just wonderful. I wouldn’t WWW. ORMC.ORG have been able to calm down if not for the nurses here.” She went on to say, “I’ve never met hospital personnel who are so incredibly kind, empathetic and understanding. I completely relied on their strength and compassion to get through this whole experience. It really goes beyond any words I can use to adequately describe my gratitude.” An art therapist at the Veterans Administration Hospital in Montrose, Melissa described her own experience as a hospital employee, “You know, I work at a hospital where customer service is constantly being taught and reinforced over and over again, but to actually experience it, see it in practice, is really an amazing thing.” Discharged a few days later, the family left for temporary dwellings with one of Melissa’s sisters while their home is repaired and made ready for the official arrival of baby Arnold, Jr., the fourth. Orange Regional’s Pastoral Care Program continues to grow, with the recent opening of a Clergy Office at the Arden Hill campus, and the addition of two national religious television channels, EWTN and TBN, for inpatient viewing at the Horton campus. “The growth and success of the Pastoral Care Program would not have taken place if not for the hard work and dedication of many people throughout the hospital. It’s amazing to me, the spirituality that is in the people of Orange Regional,” stated Deacon Richard Trapani, Coordinator of Pastoral Care. “I know that Reverend David Jenks, who began this program, would be very proud to know of all the people who came together, how we have grown in the past couple of years, and how we will continue to grow,” he added. Melissa Mazzeo and newborn son. ORANGE REGIONAL MEDICAL CENTER 27 PRSRT STD US POSTAGE PAID VERTIS INC. ORANGE REGIONAL M EDICAL CENTER • HORTON CAMPUS 60 P ROSPECT AVENUE • M IDDLETOWN, NY 10940 • WWW.ORMC.ORG Orange Regional Health Connection Call Toll Free 1-888-321-ORMC (1-888-321-6762) The only source you need for • Finding a doctor • Signing up for classes • Support group information • Information about hospital services We’re here for you 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year! Se Habla Español. Look inside for your free magnet!