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Health News You and Your Family Can Use to Achieve Optimal Health
Dr. Alan
Bramowitz
on Dramatic
Changes in
Heart Care
Reduce Your
Money Stress
Page 8
Jefferson
Regional
Opens New
Diagnostic
Imaging
Facility
We Can!
Pittsburgh
Helps Kids
Get Healthy
Page 12
MEDICAL
PROFILE:
Dr. Samina
Naseer:
Problems With
Balance And
Dizziness?
Page 29
Child’s Way®
Encourages
Families to
A.C.T.
See page 13
Page 32
Special focus on
Orthopedics
LOCAL NEWS 10
MAKING A DIFFERENCE
22
EYE CARE 24
See pages 16-21
Washington City Mission
MEDICAL PROFILES
What is Reiki?
Find out inside
Senior Care
plus Senior Living Options
See pages 36-44
Robert Luther, DMD
Samina Naseer, M.D.
CHILDREN’S HEALTH
LIVING WITH A DISABILITY
NATURAL HEALTH
GOOD HEALTH DIRECTORY
28
29
30
35
48
50
Let Us Exceed Your Expectaons.
For the eighth consecuve year research group Avatar
Internaonal Inc. has awarded Ohio Valley General
Hospital with the Internaonal Exceeding Paent
Expectaons award. Avatar selected OVGH based on
results from the hospital’s 2009 paent surveys.
Avatar, a research and consulng company, specializes
in evidence based intelligent surveys and innovave
strategies to transform informaon into significant
quality and efficiency of care improvement for the
healthcare industry.
Thank you to the paents who help us receive this
award year aer year. We look forward to providing
the same high-quality care to our local communies
for many years to come. Visit our newly redesigned
Web site to learn how we can help you.
25 Heckel Road • Kennedy Township, PA
412-777-6161 • www.ohiovalleyhospital.org
2 GUIDE
TO
GOOD HEALTH
www.guidetogoodhealth.com
Summer 2010
Suffering from Migraines or Chronic Pain? Try Yoga
By Louise Schultz
Julie Booth, a
yoga instructor
and massage
therapist at the
Wilfred R.
Cameron Wellness
Center of The
Washington
Hospital, has seen
first-hand how
practicing gentle
yoga has helped
some of her
students with
migraines find
welcome relief.
I
f you’re seeking relief from migraine headache pain, consider giving yoga a
try. According to the National Headache Foundation, more than 29.5 million Americans suffer from migraines and turn to remedies from medication
to alternative therapies in efforts to ease the often-debilitating pain. Julie Booth,
a yoga instructor and massage therapist at the Wilfred R. Cameron Wellness
Center of The Washington Hospital, has seen first-hand how practicing gentle
yoga has helped some of her students with migraines find welcome relief.
“It’s not a cure, but they’ve found that hatha yoga can help reduce the frequency, duration and intensity of migraines,” said Booth, who has practiced
yoga for 15 years. She credits yoga’s ability to promote inner calm and alleviate
stress with relaxing the body’s nervous system, helping to minimize the onset
and severity of migraines.
Although Booth does not suffer from migraines, she began researching the
potential benefits of yoga after seeing how much pain the headaches caused
several of her friends. She put her findings into practice through special workshops where she teaches specific yoga postures – known as asanas – and breathing techniques to prevent or delay migraines as well as ease symptoms. “It’s
important to stick to gentle,
restorative yoga practice,” she
explained. “You should also try to
practice regularly, either at home or
in a class.”
Booth has found that helpful
poses for persons with migraines
typically include the child’s pose,
seated forward bend, cobra pose,
standing forward fold and tree
pose. “A lot of these poses incorporate forward folding that draws you
inward, calms you, soothes your
nerves, and reduces sensory overload,” she said.
Yoga also may help relieve symptoms for people with other chronic
conditions such as back and neck
pain, carpal tunnel syndrome,
arthritis and multiple sclerosis.
Jamie Thornton, lead mind/body
instructor at the Wellness Center,
observed that by encouraging correct postural alignment, yoga
loosens unconscious muscular
gripping that may cause chronic
pain. “You line up your spine, pull
your head back, and pay attention
to the natural curve of your spine
and neck,” she said. “The stretching from the asanas also promotes
flexibility and movement, which
lessens pain.”
Thornton and Booth also find
They’ll look at your
that yoga’s emphasis on breathing
legs for a whole
exercises helps reduce the stress
new reason.
and tension that can exacerbate
pain. Booth, who has helped a student with multiple sclerosis find
symptom relief through yoga,
noted, “There probably can’t be
enough said for breathing, relaxing
and being in the moment. The
whole nervous system benefits
when yoga helps you stay relaxed
and keep your muscles long and
stretched.”
Leap into Summer with
New & Improved Legs!
Louise Schultz is Wellness
Coordinator at Wilfred R.
Cameron Wellness Center
of The Washington
Hospital. For information on yoga
workshops, call (724) 250-6282.
>
Summer 2010
www.guidetogoodhealth.com
GUIDE
TO
GOOD HEALTH 3
Reiki? I Heard of it, But What Does it Mean?
By Tabatha Knox, NHP, CEI, RMP
T
here are so many holistic healing modalities that at times we may all
feel challenged about what direction to take in our healing journey as
our thoughts go through our mind wondering if this is something
that is honest and true, or, an encounter that will turn out to be a disappointment.
Reiki is honest and true and not a new holistic healing modality. It was
actually developed by a Japanese man in the early 1900s. We are just starting to hear about it more frequently as we as individuals are in search for
modalities that can complement our current protocols.
A Reiki session is noninvasive. You will simply lie on a massage table fully
clothed. A practitioner will place their hands on or above specific energy
locations of the body. This may help dissolve energy blockages and tension.
The goal is to create a state of natural balance within the body. This is not
only physically, but, emotionally, mentally and spiritually as well. A session
will last approximately 50 minutes. Reiki is not a massage. Their is no pressure or manipulation during the session. Relaxation music is usually played.
The more balanced and relaxed we feel, the greater our chances become of
creating the state of natural balance within ourselves.
According to the Cleveland Clinic Center for
Integrative Medicine, people are seeking Reiki for all
types of cancer, fertility issues, Parkinson’s disease,
psychological illnesses, fibromyalgia, chronic pain,
digestive problems and stress related diseases.
Hospitals around the country are adding Reiki as part of their wellness programs.
The International Association of Reiki Professionals may help you feel
more comfortable in choosing a Reiki Practitioner. The members of this
association must show proof of their qualifications to become a member. If
they are part of the Association and have certificates with years of experience, they more than likely care deeply about their practice. The most
important part in choosing a Reiki Practitioner is that you feel comfortable
with the Practitioner and their compassion towards Reiki.
>
Tabatha Knox, Reiki Master since 2003, can be reached at
(412) 613-4480 or [email protected] or visit
www.alternativewellnessnaturally.com.
Summer: Time for Swimmer’s Ear
By Mary Kendall Rago M.D., FACS
B
elieve it or not, summer is upon us, and swimmers young and old will
develop swimmer’s ear, or acute otitis externa (AOE). This is a rapidly
developing, painful swelling of the ear canal, often with hearing loss or
jaw pain, and is almost always because of a bacterial infection. In the U.S.,
there will be approximately 1 million cases of AOE per year, and 10% of us
will have at least one episode in our lifetime.
There are a few key reasons for developing AOE. Increased water exposure
and sweating definitely increase the risk, but so does self cleaning of the ear
canals with Q-tips, bobbypins, etc. This not only
removes earwax which is important to protect the
ear canal from moisture and infection, but can also
cause trauma to the skin of the ear canal or push a
dam of earwax down deep into the ear canal. Water
exposure and self cleaning change the acid/base balance of the ear canal to make it less acidic and let the
bacteria grow more readily. Other factors that predispose to AOE are skin conditions of the ear canal (eczema) and wearing
hearing aids.
Treatment of AOE is a 5 day course of a prescription topical ear drop containing a steroid to decrease the swelling and an antibiotic to treat the bacterial infection. If the canal is too swollen for the eardrops to get down to the
infection, a wick or sponge 1/2 inch long may need to be placed in the ear
canal temporarily. Oral antibiotics are usually not needed to cure AOE.
The key for recurrent AOE is prevention. Measures need to be taken to dry
and acidify the ear canals with over-the-counter ear drops (usually containing alcohol and either glycerine or vinegar) immediately after water exposure
and/or use of earplugs to avoid water exposure all together. Hair dryers can
also be used to dry the ear canals, and the use of Q-tips and the other “tools”
such as rolled up tissues should be stopped.
Please see an otolaryngologist (ENT) if problems persist. Have a happy
summer!
>
Dr. Rago, of Bell, Froman, Orsini & Associates, can be reached at
her Greentree office at (412) 922-5315 or her Robinson office at
(412) 787-3400. For more information, you can also visit the website
www.entallergywesternpa.com.
Your Comfort . . . Our Caring
for 30 years in Western PA
•
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24/7 quality compassionate care
Accredited palliative care physicians
12-bed inpatient unit
Partners with leading health care
providers
1-800-513-2148 • www.familyhospice.com
Family Hospice and Palliative Care does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, disability, sex, age sexual
orientation, marital or Veteran status in any respect, including but not limited to employment, the admission of patients and/or the treatment
available to patients. The reaffirmation of this commitment is made in conformance with Federal, State and local laws and regulations.
4 GUIDE
TO
GOOD HEALTH
www.guidetogoodhealth.com
Summer 2010
No Cure for Rheumatoid Arthritis,
But Specialist Can Help With Pain
By Lois Thomson
T
here's osteoarthritis…and then there's rheumatoid arthritis.
Osteoarthritis affects joints associated with degeneration and is
marked by considerable pain. Rheumatoid arthritis, however, is considered a systemic disease, meaning that it affects other organs as well as
joints.
Dr. Jay Karpen, an authority on chronic pain, says, "I treat a number of
patients with this condition. What we typically see in rheumatoid arthritis is
that patients have this chronic joint inflammation, which causes swelling,
pain, stiffness, and redness of the joints, as well as in the surrounding structures, the tendons, ligaments, muscles, and the synovial membrane, which
is a membrane that lines the joints."
He said that in the most severe cases, rheumatoid arthritis can cause terrible deformity of the joints. "Because it commonly affects the small joints of
the hands and wrists, the classic sign is that you see people whose fingers are
almost at right angles.
"It can cause the hands and wrists to become so dysfunctional that what
we take for granted in daily living is very difficult for a patient with rheumatoid arthritis, even something as simple as opening a jar or turning a doorknob. So there is the loss of function and quality of life that we see with all
other forms of chronic pain."
What can be done? Dr. Karpen said this kind of condition can be treated
by a person's PCP or rheumatologist; but when it becomes associated with
chronic pain, the patient should seek the care of a pain specialist.
As for Dr. Karpen, he starts with a physical history of the patient.
However, since there is no cure, "We use a combination of medications—the
first-line medications used are anti-inflammatory medications, what we call
non-steroidal, that would include Motrin, naproxen, things like that. In certain cases we'll use steroidal medications, like cortisone, prednisone."
He mentioned other types called disease-modifying medications, or specifically, disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs. "Those act slower and for a
longer period of time, and patients can be on them for years. They're used in
an attempt to slow the progress and destruction that the disease causes of the
joints."
Dr. Karpen also recommends exercise, especially swimming, joint
strengthening and protection, rest, minimizing stress, educating patients
about the disease, and what they can do to self-help themselves. In severe
cases, patients may need surgery to correct the deformity, or total joint
replacement.
Rheumatoid arthritis affects more than 1 million
people in the United States, far more women than
men, affects all races equally, and its onset is most
commonly seen between the ages 40 and 60.
Unfortunately, as Dr. Karpen expressed, there is no
known cure. But it's good to know that specialists
like Dr. Karpen are available to help alleviate the
pain associated with rheumatoid arthritis.
>
For more information, call Dr. Karpen at the
Center for Pain Relief at (724) 942-5188.
Dr. Jay Karpen
Pain Relief . . .
Every Step
of the Way!
DonÕt Wait Until Each
Step Causes Pain . . .
Pittsburgh Family Foot Care, P.C. doctors don’t just work wonders for
aching arches, swollen ankles, and painful heels. They are experts in
foot pain prevention! Treatments and techniques for:
• Bunions
• Digital Custom-made
orthotics and shoes
• Sports injuries
• Traumatic foot and ankle
injuries/fractures
• On-site X-rays
• Skin problems such as warts
• Hammertoes (crooked toes)
• Diabetic and arthritic foot care
• Endoscopic procedures with
less cost, discomfort, and
recovery time
• Extracorporeal Shock Wave
therapy for heel pain
Evening, lunchtime appointments. Handicapped accessible,
payment plans and most insurance plans accepted.
Dr. Karen Luther • Dr. Darlene N. Saheta
Dr. Charles R. Dushack
Pittsburgh Family Foot Care, P.C.
2001 Waterdam Plaza Drive, Suite 207
Centralized Scheduling (724) 941-9440
Visit our doctors and many locations: www.pffcpc.com
South Hills • UPMC Mercy Primary Care • Deer Lakes Medical
Greensburg • UPMC Mercy Greentree
Summer 2010
www.guidetogoodhealth.com
GUIDE
TO
GOOD HEALTH 5
Which Form of Exercise is Best?
The One You Stick to!
Reduce Your Money Stress
By Diana Fletcher
ARE MONEY ISSUES AFFECTING YOUR FAMILY
LIFE OR YOUR SLEEP?
One of the best ways to reduce the stress of a money
problem is to look at it squarely in the face and resolve
to take care of it. That first step is the hardest, but then
you are on your way. I would like to share three important steps to get you started to reduce your money
stress.
1) You need to look at where your money is going.
Carry paper with you, and write down every penny you
spend. At the end of a week, total up the amounts and
see where the money went. I guarantee you will be surprised and will be able to
spot changes you could make to lower your spending. Continue to do this as a
way of staying aware of your habits. (It is hard to look honestly at ourselves
sometimes, but it is the only way to make healthy changes.)
2) Leave the credit cards at home. Keep one with you if you absolutely have
to, for emergencies, but leave the others at home. It will be easier to resist temptation. Another tip is to use cash instead of a bank card. This can make you more
aware of the amounts you are spending.
3) Make a date with yourself and if pertinent, with your partner. You need
to spend some time thinking about your goals. Attitudes about money can differ wildly. You need to get those attitudes out on the table without argument and
bitterness. Do not wait until you get into trouble to discuss where money should
go. Work on a plan, and then discuss the difference between needs and wants,
and what you want to save for in the future.
If you need more help, you may want to explore working with a financial
advisor, consolidating loans, or getting counseling. Ignoring the issues will not
make them go away, and you will keep on worrying.
So - take control of the things you can take control of!
>
Diana Fletcher is the Stress Reducing Expert Life Coach, Author and
Speaker. For 25 Free Stress Reducing Tips, visit her website at
www.dianafletcher.com or contact Diana at (412) 612-5977.
6 GUIDE
TO
GOOD HEALTH
By Michael F. Hyek, Ph.D.
G
entler forms of exercise and activity are capturing the time and
attention of more Americans. Elliptical-trainer workouts, yoga
and tai chi are among the fastest-growing fitness activities in the
United States. In contrast, high-impact aerobics has been declining since
1998. Credit the aging baby-boomers, some say!
To hear baby boomers tell it, some are looking to preserve their joints
- especially knees and ankles - that have been jarred or stressed during
other activities. Other exercisers are seeking activities that promote the
mind-body connection. Some simply want to add variety to or round out
their regimen with activities that enhance flexibility or are low-impact.
More people also are taking the time to work on strength. More are
using dumbbells and resistance machines than other types of strengthtraining equipment. It’s probably because dumbbells and resistance
machines are more user-friendly.
Treadmills remain the most widely used exercise machines across the
nation. However, elliptical trainer use is on the rise having increased
nearly 315% over the past 6 years compared with 28% for treadmill use.
What equipment is becoming less popular? The cross-country ski
machine and stair-climber. Although both provide a good workout without pounding the joints, these machines are probably spending more
time gathering dust in the den than burning someone’s calories.
While these trends underscore an evolution in fitness, they don’t discount the activities and machines that are no longer in vogue. If you are
using a machine or form of exercise that you enjoy and is safe, stick with
it. Trends aside, the most effective exercise machines and activities are
the ones you enjoy every day and the ones you will actually commit to
use!
>
Dr. Michael F. Hyek, Director, The Lake Erie College of
Osteopathic Medicine, Medical Fitness and Wellness Center, can
be reached at (814) 868-7800 or visit www.lecomwellness.com.
www.guidetogoodhealth.com
Summer 2010
By Peggy Gregor, BA
M
any of us were encouraged to place a book
on the top of our heads and walk to promote positive posture. This simple task is
no longer done, however, the focus on good postural alignment remains. In relation to exercise,
postural alignment can mean the difference
between gaining benefits and incurring an injury.
This is why more emphasis is being placed on
how you sit, stand and maintain your back’s alignment when performing movement. Good posture
also helps to strengthen our core musculature –
abdominals, back, hips and shoulders.
Daily rigors of life can weaken the back. Sitting
at a desk, driving, and standing for long periods of
time can cause our bodies to slouch. This places
excessive strain on the cervical, thoracic and lumbar
spine. Over time our bodies become strong in this
poor alignment causing back and neck pain and even
decreasing our lung capacity. Muscles in the back of
the body become ‘loose’ and ‘weak’ while the muscles
in the front of the body become ‘tight’. The poor
posture creates a muscular imbalance which
greatly affects the function and mobility of the
arms and legs.
Sitting/standing tall may feel unnatural or
even uncomfortable. It takes a conscious
effort, which is why good posture is encouraged
by health and fitness professionals. With practice, we can begin to strengthen weak muscles and stretch tight muscles leading us to perform daily activities more efficiently and pain free.
Before performing any exercise, it is crucial that the spine be properly
aligned and that posture is maintained throughout the exercise. This will
serve to keep the back safe and will allow the proper muscle group to engage.
This is not limited to mind/body exercises or strength training. Proper alignment during cardiovascular work is crucial as well.
While at your computer or driving your car, remember to sit tall. Moving
your seat closer to the desk/wheel and sitting up on your ‘sits bones’ will
help. Your head ‘guides’ your spine. If you look down, the head can pull the
spine out of alignment. Keeping the eyes on the horizon and reaching tall
through the top back of your head will help correct poor posture.
Be mindful of your movement whether exercising or performing daily
activities. Misalignments of the spine can take years, but with effort and
awareness we can change our posture and in turn enhance our daily living
and benefit more from the exercises we perform.
>
Peggy Gregor, group exercise director at Healthtrax Fitness and
Wellness in Bethel Park, PA, can be reached at (412) 835-0500
or [email protected].
Acupuncture
It’s all about your health.
“Acupuncture can be
integrated with traditional
medical care to treat the
whole person.”
Melissa Murtha, LAc, MA,
certified and licensed
acupuncturist. Appointments
also are available with Lisa
Wang, O.M.D. (China), Dipl.
Ac. ROM.
For more Health News you can use,
go to www.guidetogoodhealth.com
Acupuncture has been successfully
relieving pain and treating illnesses for
thousands of years. It has been shown
to successfully treat a large number of
medical conditions such as:
• Chronic pain
• Back pain
• Migraine headaches
• Asthma
• Depression
• Arthritis
• GERD
The reason for the growing popularity
of acupuncture at Spa Harmony is
simple — it works!
© 2010 Wilfred R. Cameron Wellness Center
Posture Perfect
Call 724.250.5238 now to find out
how acupuncture can work for you!
spaharmony.org
Take an active role in your life
240 Wellness Way, Washington, PA 15301
724.225.WELL • wrcameronwellness.org • Open to the Public
Summer 2010
www.guidetogoodhealth.com
GUIDE
TO
GOOD HEALTH 7
HEART HEALTH
Dramatic Changes in Heart Care
By Lois Thomson
"In the 1960s, if a person would come into a hospital with a heart attack, that individual would be in the hospital for
four to six weeks and would have a mortality rate of 20 to 30 percent. And now, with the same heart attack, the
person may have a mortality rate of less than 5 percent and could be out of the hospital in less than three days."
D
He tied medications in with heart transplants, saying that
r. Alan D. Bramowitz, cardiologist at Jefferson
while transplants initiated in the 1970s and the outcomes
Cardiology, has seen a lot of changes in cardiac
have improved since then, the need for transplants has
care in his 30-plus years of practicing, and as he
decreased because more people can be treated with today's
pointed out, "The whole field of heart disease, both in
superior medications. Also, some persons can benefit from
terms of techniques for diagnosis and treatments, has
mobile heart pumps that may assist end-stage persons, and
changed very dramatically over the past 35 to 40 years."
may replace the need for transplants.
He was kind enough to discuss some of the improvements
Still more improvements, according to Dr. Bramowitz,
that have taken place during that time:
include
catheterization techniques used in some individuals
"The first pacemakers were introduced probably in the
to replace aortic valves; and even techniques for using
mid-1960s," he began, "and they've been improved over
robots to assist with mitral valve and coronary bypass
time to where now they're not only used for treatment of
surgery.
slow heart rates, but certain types of pacing systems can
"The whole field of ultrasound has developed and has
also be used for heart failure. And defibrillators intronow
had much more widespread application," he continued.
duced around 1990 may prevent sudden death caused by
"It can be used not only for detection of heart valve probabnormal heart rhythms."
lems, as was the initial application, but it has also been able
He continued, "Initial cardiac catheterizations introto be used at the bedside and in doctors' offices for evaluaduced in the 1950s led to coronary angiography in the
Dr. Alan D. Bramowitz,
tion of heart muscle function. There are also applications for
early 1960s, allowing visualization of the coronary circucardiologist at Jefferson
predictions for people who may be at risk for stroke. These
lation. Coronary balloon angioplasty was initiated in the
Cardiology, has seen a lot of
are just some of the major things that have happened."
late 1970s and ultimately led to devices resulting to curchanges in cardiac care in
Dr. Bramowitz couldn't have conceived of such ideas
rent stents that can abort heart attacks and stabilize
his
30-plus
years
of
when
he first started his practice. "None of these things were
threatened coronary patients."
practicing medicine.
anticipated," he agreed. "The first time I saw an angiogram
Further advancements in the 1960s include the first
it was totally shocking." At the same time, he said these
coronary bypass procedure that was done in 1967.
developments
helped
to keep him captivated by his career. "Oh yes, they're
Echocardiography was introduced in the middle of that decade and became
more widespread in the early 1970s. Likewise, the concept of coronary care very dynamic. The idea of looking at a cardiogram with signs of acute heart
units started around that time, and nuclear cardiology—which uses non- attack that would normalize, would have been totally unexpected 20 or 25
invasive techniques to evaluate the pumping function of the heart, evaluate years ago."
Does he see anything new emerging on the horizon? Yes. "I think the big
areas deprived of blood flow, and visualize the size and location of a heart
thing
for the future will be the benefits of Human Genome Project," he said,
attack—was developed in the early 1970s and progressed from there.
Dr. Bramowitz also discussed medications, saying, "Many of the basic by which chromosomes can be analyzed to help understand the genetic
drugs were introduced over the past 30 years. Prior to the late 1960s, there makeup of humans.
As Dr. Bramowitz explained, "Currently, isolated problems have been
were no potent diuretics for treatment for heart failure; and a number of the
rhythm medicines were introduced in subsequent years. Beta blockers intro- identified for special circumstances, meaning those persons who may have
duced in the late '60s and calcium channel blockers in the '70s may help a tendency for certain genetically transmitted diseases, or who may have
both coronary and hypertensive patients. The concept of effective-treatment resistance to medications that could be predicted by genetics. This is somemedications for cholesterol may have come in the mid- to late-1980s. thing that's just beginning and there are certain specialized illnesses—some
Certain classifications of medications called ACE inhibitors (angiotensin- of which that are not common that have now been localized to certain chroconverting enzyme) that have been very effective for blood pressure and mosomes, and certain sequences of chromosomes. This is a very dynamic
heart failure were developed probably in the early 1980s. Other medica- field."
Pacemakers. Echocardiography. Coronary stents. Ultrasound. Genetics.
tions, which were related to them with similar efficacy, came about in the
1990s. And clot-busting drugs developed in the 1980s improved survival for Sometimes we take for granted those phenomenons that may have been
around for a good part of our lives. But Dr. Bramowitz's summarization is
heart attack victims.
"Statin drugs, made possible by Nobel-Prize-winning research, were an excellent reminder of how fortunate we are to have exceptional cardiac
introduced more than 20 years ago and have been demonstrated to result in care available to us, with more improvements likely for the future.
major cholesterol reduction and anti-inflammatory effects. The combined
For more information or to make an appointment, you can reach
effects have been shown to result in major reductions in death, heart
Dr. Bramowitz at Jefferson Cardiology Associates at
attacks, stroke, and the need for coronary bypass surgery and coronary
(412)
469-1500 or visit www.jeffersoncardiology.com.
angioplasty."
>
“Statin drugs, made possible by Nobel-Prize-winning research, were introduced more than 20 years ago and have been demonstrated
to result in major cholesterol reduction and anti-inflammatory effects. The combined effects have been shown to result in
major reductions in death, heart attacks, stroke, and the need for coronary bypass surgery and coronary angioplasty."
8 GUIDE
TO
GOOD HEALTH
www.guidetogoodhealth.com
Summer 2010
RADIANCE
A Private Outpatient Surgery Center, LLC
We are proud to introduce you to RADIANCE – A Private
Outpatient Surgery Center, LLC. Radiance has undergone the most
stringent evaluations and inspections, such as those our local and
university hospitals have undergone. The Pennsylvania State
Department of Health, Medicare, and the Joint Commission for
Accreditation of Hospitals have licensed Radiance as a first-class
surgical center. Radiance Surgery Center has recruited the best
of our region’s nurses, technicians and anesthesia providers to
assist in your care.
Radiance Surgery Center’s location, just off Interstate 79, provides easy accessibility to patients from western Pennsylvania,
West Virginia, and eastern Ohio. Your family can relax in our cozy
waiting room with refreshment bar, flat-screen TV and music.
Our pre-op nurse will check your vital signs and allergy alerts,
help you change into a robe, and see that all your needs are met. You will then be interviewed by our boardcertified anesthesiologists and registered nurse anesthetists of Radiance Anesthesia, LLC. Our anesthesia group’s
expertise is outpatient anesthesia – quick emergence, nausea-free, and near-painless return to home and function.
Our skilled and talented board-certified surgeons will carry out your surgery in our beautiful sterile OR’s, complete with the best and latest technology.
Surgeons and Specialties
The following physicians perform outpatient surgery at
Radiance Surgery Center:
Plastic Surgery:
Lori L. Cherup, M.D. (412) 220-8181
Plastic Surgeon
Howard Edington, M.D. (412) 641-4274
Surgical Oncologist, Plastic Surgeon
Orthopedic Surgery:
South Hills Orthopedics
Derrick Fluhme, M.D. (412) 429-0880
Sports Medicine
Christopher Manning, M.D. (412) 429-0880
Hand and Shoulder Surgeon
Eric Nabors, MD. (412) 429-0880
Spine and Orthopedic Surgeon
The Orthopedic Group
Alexander Kandabarow, M.D. (412) 276-7022
Spine Surgeon
Podiatry:
South Hills Orthopedics
Damon Combs, D.P.M. (412) 429-0880
Podiatrist
Gynecology:
Patricia Bulseco Associates
Deborah Lenart, M.D. (724) 941-1866
Gynecologist
Douglas Mackay, M.D. (724) 941-1866
Gynecologist
Shannon McGranahan, M.D. (724) 941-1866
Urogynecology/Gynecologist
Vascular Surgery:
Georgevich Associates
Philip Georgevich, M.D. (412) 249-8997
Vein/Vascular Surgeon
Happel Laser & Vein Center
John Happel, M.D. (724) 969-0600
Vein/Vascular Surgeon
Pain Management:
Premier Pain Management
Bud Lateef, M.D. (412) 466-7246
Pain Management
The Orthopedic Group
Jose Ramirez-DelToro, M.D. (412) 276-7022
Pain Management
701 Boyce Road at Washington Pike • Bridgeville, PA 15017
Phone: 412-220-2336 • Fax: 412-220-2279 • www.drcherup.com • [email protected]
Summer 2010
www.guidetogoodhealth.com
GUIDE
TO
GOOD HEALTH 9
LOCAL NEWS
Community Turns Out for
MVH Regional Cancer Center
Silver Anniversary
Members of the community and SRMC staff discuss the services offered at the Occupational Medicine
Center. (l-r) Jason Roberts, Paramedic; EMS Southwest Director Rob Bowman; SRMC CEO Cindy Cowie;
Occupational Medicine Director Kelly Fath; Waynesburg Area Chamber of Commerce Executive Director
Melody Longstreth; and John Owens, Northwood Realty.
Cancer survivor C. Garret Cooper is applauded by Drs.
Andrew J. Zahalsky and Judith H. Figura as he prepares
to address the crowd who gathered to celebrate MVH's
Regional Cancer Center's 25th anniversary.
The spotlight was on cancer survivors when
Monongahela Valley Hospital commemorated 25
years of regional cancer care.
While the event marked the 25th anniversary of
the Charles L. and Rose Sweeney Melenyzer
Pavilion and Regional Cancer Center, President
and CEO Louis J. Panza Jr. said the primary focus
was to share “The Vision of Hope Cancer Care
Program” with the residents of the midMonongahela Valley and with our survivors.
“The patients and their families who have utilized and benefited from our oncology services are
the most important reason for this celebration,”
Panza told the gathering of more than 300 people
in the Anthony M. Lombardi Education
Conference Center, half of them cancer survivors.
Also offering similar sentiments were Andrew J.
Zahalsky, M.D., director of medical oncology and
Judith H. Figura, M.D., a radiation oncologist at
the MVH Regional Cancer Center who listed the
technological achievements of the Center. C.
Garret Cooper, 29, a former Charleroi resident,
presented a special survivor’s story describing the
outstanding care and assistance he received at the
Center. “I am very thankful that this facility is
here,” Cooper said.
Southwest Regional Medical Center Occupational
Medicine Center Answer for Employee Health
For local employers, the Southwest Regional Medical Center Occupational Medicine Center is the
all-encompassing answer for employee health. The center offers pre-employment and regulatory
physicals, workers compensation services, lab testing and case management, as well as additional
services.
The center officially opened on February 1, and offers fully computerized pulmonary testing, audiology testing and eight different types of vision testing. These tests can be performed and evaluated
on site. According to Occupational Medicine Center Director Kelly Fath, the center strives to complete patient visits within 30 minutes, depending on the treatment needed. All blood testing is drawn
right on site and diagnostic imaging services are performed through SRMC. Patients are pre-registered to expedite the testing needed at the hospital.
“Dr. Vaughan and his staff are a great asset to this community,” said Pennsylvania Services
Corporation [an affiliate of Alpha Natural Resources] Senior Human Resources Representative Debbie
Gresh. “This center will be successful and continue to grow. The location is convenient, and it helps
to build relationships between the hospital, mines and the community.”
According to Vaughan, the center has already established relationships with local businesses as well
as out-of-state companies. “We get calls from Texas and Alabama from the companies who have people working on the gas wells,” said Vaughan. If a company or business has an account through
Southwest Regional, the Occupational Medicine Center can access their information, making the
process simple and convenient for the employer.
Vaughan stressed the top-to-bottom care provided by the facility. “We do all follow-up for injuries.
Employees are taken care of from diagnosis through recovery, and we have regular communication
with their employer,” said Vaughan. “We can coordinate specialty referrals for injuries; we do returnto-work exams, pre-employment physicals and acute injury care, all the way through follow-up
exams.”
>
For more information about the Occupational Medicine Center, call (724) 627-1950.
Child’s Place at Mercy and the Fred Rogers Company Announce
‘When Your Baby Cries … Ways to Soothe Your Baby’
Most people would agree that being a parent is the most rewarding and fulfilling job they have ever experienced.
It also is probably the most challenging.
Research shows that about 20 percent of babies cry for several hours a day without physical cause – something
many parents and caregivers know from firsthand experience. For most infants, crying is a baby’s way of letting us
know that he or she is hungry, needs to be changed, or is simply tired. Some babies go through fussy periods of crying for no apparent reason. These periods can last until the baby is four to six months old, which can seem endless
for parents who are unsure of what to do.
A Child’s Place at Mercy, the official Allegheny County Child Advocacy Center, an accredited member of the
National Children’s Alliance and a part of the Pittsburgh Mercy Health System, announces the release of “When Your
Baby Cries … Ways to Soothe Your Baby,” a 15-minute educational DVD designed to teach new parents understanding of and tolerance for normal amounts
of infant crying, techniques that can help soothe a crying infant, increase the quality of parent-child bonding, and help to deter child abuse.
Parents delivering a baby at hospitals in Allegheny County will be eligible to receive a free DVD over the next year. DVDs will also be available for purchase.
>
For online support and more information, check the website www.babycries.org. In addition, A Child’s Place at Mercy
is developing a training curriculum it will use with health care and social services professionals, and others.
For more information about “When Your Baby Cries,” contact A Child’s Place at Mercy at (412) 232-7200.
10 GUIDE
TO
GOOD HEALTH
www.guidetogoodhealth.com
E-mail us YOUR News Items to
[email protected]
Summer 2010
Seamless Takeover at Washington Hospital
By Lois Thomson
"We have a terrific medical staff, and we are
not just a health care provider but also an
educational institution." He pointed out that
the hospital has 21 residents in family medicine at any given time; the school of nursing
graduates approximately 50 nurses every
year; and the school of radiologic technology
graduates 12 to 15 techs each year.
Replacing a long-time executive who held the
top position at a facility might cause concerns
on all fronts—about maintaining the flow of
operations and whether the new person would
be able to handle the responsibilities. That is
not happening at The Washington Hospital.
G
ary Weinstein, who is taking over for Telford W.
Thomas as President and CEO, has been there for 29
And even though a number of publications have listed
years and worked with Thomas as executive vice
The Washington Hospital in the top 5 or 10 percent for
Gary Weinstein
president for the past 18, so the move looks to be seamless,
services such as orthopedics and cardiology, Weinstein
particularly with Weinstein's outlook.
believes it remains a challenge to continue to stand out:
"Every leader has concerns, but I feel like I have tremendous assets to
"A top priority for us is to maintain and recruit top-level primary care and
work with," he said. "We have a terrific medical staff, and we are not just a specialty physicians, and to work to get our physicians more closely aligned
health care provider but also an educational institution." He pointed out with the hospital. Traditionally, physicians have had private offices in the
that the hospital has 21 residents in family medicine at any given time; the community, they come to the hospital in the morning to see their inschool of nursing graduates approximately 50 nurses every year; and the patients, and then they go back to their offices to see their out-patients. But
school of radiologic technology graduates 12 to 15 techs each year. "It's more and more physicians are looking to be employed by the hospital, and
unusual for a community hospital to have those kinds of academic compo- we are doing more of that."
nents."
He is also looking toward the continued growth of out-patient services.
Weinstein joined the staff as a planner in 1981, and in 1989 became assis- "We have between 30 and 40 sites, and I expect you'll see that number grow
tant vice president for operations. Then, "in 1992, when Mr. Thomas as we take the services closer to where the people live."
became the president, he asked me to become the executive vice president,
Such considerations might seem overwhelming for some, but not for
and (when he retired) I was asked by the board of trustees to succeed him." Weinstein. "This is a wonderful institution. It has a long and very proud hisThe fact that Weinstein is familiar with The Washington Hospital doesn't tory, and so it is truly a tremendous privilege that the board of trustees has
mean that he doesn't anticipate any problems. "The concerns going forward given to me to be able assume a leadership position here at Washington."
are the ones that have been pretty well publicized during the health care
reform debate," he said, "dealing with the highest quality care at the lowest
For more information, visit www.washingtonhospital.org.
cost."
>
SANE Program Provides Complete Care for Victims
By Lois Thomson
T
he subject is a difficult one, but one made
a little less difficult by the SANE program
at The Washington Hospital. SANE stands
for Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner, and it offers
treatment and services to victims of sexual assault
of all ages.
Michelle McIntyre, one of the program's nurses, talked about the services they provide. For
adults who come into the Emergency
Department and say they were sexually assaulted,
one of the SANE nurses will collect any evidence
from the crime that has been committed and document the details of the event. "We offer treatment of potential STDs and offer pregnancy prevention, then we recommend follow-up with the
S.T.T.A.R.S. (Sexual Trauma Treatment And
Recovery Services) Program, and their family
doctor."
As for children, McIntyre pointed out,
"Children don't disclose (sexual assault) right
away. It could be two years down the road before
a child tells someone about that."
When dealing with children, McIntyre said
SANE involves the Child Advocacy Center of
Washington County, which is housed at The
Washington Hospital, along with Children and
Youth Services. For both types of victims, SANE
also works with the district attorney's office, law
enforcement, and the S.T.T.A.R.S. Program.
McIntyre said that no police training is
required to collect and document the evidence;
Summer 2010
Members of the
SANE staff at
The Washington
Hospital try to
make the
atmosphere as
pleasant
as possible for
children who
are victims
of sexual
assault.
rather, the nurses take a 40-hour course in
becoming a sexual assault nurse examiner. A separate 40-hour course is required to work with
children.
According to McIntyre, when a victim comes
in, any medical concerns are addressed first.
www.guidetogoodhealth.com
"Then we proceed to collect our forensic evidence from the sexual assault. And the whole
emotional support is intertwined in that."
The atmosphere is also made as pleasant as
possible. McIntyre said the children have a separate exam room, which is painted as an underwater scene. "It's to alleviate fear and distract the
children, so when they walk in it's like they're in
the ocean. And we have an 'I Spy' chart on the
wall and ask, can you find this, can you find
that."
Similarly, for the adults, "It's a very relaxed
environment, it's not rushed like a normal emergency department would be. We take our time
with these people, we make sure they're taken
care of. I'm not going to send anybody out of here
who doesn't feel safe."
Eric Rohrer, a member of the SANE staff,
added, "We're also trying to educate the public
about what we do and the services we provide.
We're putting some programs together so that we
can speak with students in schools. We've also
contacted the local police departments and hospitals to let them know about the program."
McIntyre admits that being a SANE nurse can
be very tough emotionally. "But we are part of a
multi-disciplinary team in Washington County,
and we all work together to take care of any victims of sexual assault, male, female, any age."
>
For more information, call
(724) 223-3774 or visit
www.washingtonhospital.org.
GUIDE
TO
GOOD HEALTH 11
Dr. Valerie Drnovsek
Jefferson Regional Opens New Diagnostic Imaging Facility in Bethel Park
By Nancy Kennedy
I
n the very near future, residents
of Bethel Park and neighboring
communities will receive a wonderful gift from Jefferson Regional
Medical Center (JRMC): a beautiful,
brand new, state-of-the-art diagnostic imaging facility that will transform the way that patients experience x-rays, scans and other diagnostic studies. With an emphasis on
service, convenience and patient
comfort, the new full service facility
promises to simplify and streamline
the process of undergoing outpatient diagnostic imaging studies.
JRMC Diagnostic Services, LLC,
will open the spacious new facility
in July at 1100 Higbee Drive, adja-
cent to, and connected to, the
Jefferson Regional Health Pavilion.
It has been thoroughly equipped
with the latest, leading-edge, hightech imaging devices, including the
Toshiba Vantage Titan MRI, to
assure that patients receive the most
advanced diagnostic care available.
The Bethel Park center will offer a
full range of high quality imaging
and other clinical capacities, including:
• High field MRIs featuring a 70cm. opening for greater patient
comfort
• Multi-slice CT scans
• Digital mammography, stereotactic and needle localizations
• Breast MRIs
• Digital x-rays
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12 GUIDE
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GOOD HEALTH
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• Ultrasounds
• EKGs
The JRMC Diagnostic Services
Bethel Park site matches excellence
in clinical care with excellence in
customer service, environment and
amenities. According to Michael
Miller, executive director of JRMC
Diagnostics, the new facility represents the medical center’s philosophy of patient-centered care. “It’s a
gorgeous setting and we’re proud of
it, but our greatest source of pride is
the way this new facility reflects our
focus on patients. It provides comfort and convenience beyond anything that patients will have experienced before. All of our planning
was driven by our mission to put
the needs of the patient first.”
Towards that goal, the Bethel
Park site was designed to ease the
patient experience in every way
possible. From the abundant, free
parking to the coffee and juice bars
and the easy, one-floor access, the
facility extends a warm welcome to
the patients and invites them to a
new, improved healthcare experience. For seniors and persons with
disabilities, the building is easily
navigated, with no stairs or elevators. Comfortable waiting rooms
ease stress for patients and family
members, while “sub” waiting
rooms ensure privacy and personalized attention. There is a restful
courtyard area and plenty of seating. The building was designed by
the Pittsburgh architecture and
interior design firm of Radelet,
McCarthy and Polletta.
“Diagnostic imaging” refers to
the various technologies that physicians and radiologic technologists
utilize to look at internal organs in
order to diagnose or monitor a
medical condition. X-rays, MRIs,
CT scans and ultrasounds are
among the technologies used in
diagnostic imaging. These studies
are safe, painless, relatively easy and
non-invasive, meaning that they
require no surgical incisions or
insertion of instruments. Diagnostic
>
imaging is an extremely valuable
tool for physicians in the process of
making a diagnosis, and physicians
who refer their patients for testing
to JRMC Diagnostics will benefit
from the facility’s streamlined
processes. Study results will be
available online within 12-24 hours
and patients will be able to make
same-day appointments in many
cases. The facility is fully accredited,
with board certified radiologists
available on a 24-hour basis for consultation and interpretation of studies. A highly credentialed, expert
staff of technologists performs the
imaging studies.
Future plans include having a
radiologist on site at each location,
says Georgine DeMarino, M.D.,
Medical Director. “This new facility
is beautiful and convenient. It gives
me as a radiologist an avenue to
provide a level of quality care that
one would expect to find in a hospital, but with the convenience, efficiency and accessibility of an outpatient location.” In addition to Dr.
DeMarino, who specializes in
women’s imaging, the medical staff
includes
radiologist
Teresita
Enriquez, M.D., and Valerie
Drnovsek, M.D., a neuroradiologist.
Albert Ragan, Vice-President Freestanding Outpatient Services at
Jefferson Regional Medical Center,
says that the Bethel Park facility represents a multi-million dollar
investment in the community by
Jefferson Regional Medical Center.
“We have invested $20 million in
the Bethel Park community. This
investment enables us to serve more
people, and to serve them better.
Having this center means that residents of this region no longer have
to face the stress and inconvenience
of going to the hospital for diagnostic imaging tests. They can look forward to a more efficient, personalized and comfortable experience at
JRMC Diagnostics, Bethel Park.”
There will be an
Open House for the entire
community on September 18.
For more information about Jefferson Regional Medical Center
Diagnostics, visit the web site www.jeffersonregional.com. Michael
Miller can be reached at [email protected].
www.guidetogoodhealth.com
Summer 2010
An OVGH
balance specialist
assists a patient
with a “balance and
fall prevention”
examination.
Do You Have Problems With
Balance and Dizziness?
New Fall and Prevention Department at
Ohio Valley General Hospital Can Help
By Laurie Bailey
D
izziness can range in severity from lightheadedness to
vertigo, or that feeling that
your surroundings are moving. It
affects about 30% of American over
65 while over 35% of adults over 40
have inner ear disorders (vestibular
dysfunction), according to the
Vestibular Disorder Association.
Thanks to the new Balance and
Fall Prevention Department, part of
the Rehabilitation Department of
Pittsburgh’s Ohio Valley General
Hospital, patients are receiving the
most effective means for diagnosing
problems with balance and dizziness.
Up and running in full force
since May, the new department
boasts a new NeuroCom Balance
Manager machine that allows thorough evaluation of a patient’s balance issues.
Before being evaluated with the
use of the NeuroCom equipment,
the patient is assessed for basic
range of motion, strength and coor-
Summer 2010
dination by one of the Rehab
Department’s nine physical therapists.
The machine can check vestibular (equilibrium in the inner ear)
somato sensory (how the muscles
provide information to the brain)
and visual (how you use vision to
help with balance) systems.
Here’s how it works. The
NeuroCom machine is a computerized “booth” with a footplate,
much like that of a Wii gaming system, in which the patient stands,
explained Colleen Hamm, director
of Ohio Valley’s Balance and Fall
Prevention Department. The walls
of the booth are colorful and patterned.
Tests are usually performed first
with the patient’s eyes open, then
closed. The footplate and surrounding walls may be still or moving.
“These tests can pinpoint where
balance problems are coming
from,” said Hamm.
For example, the NeuroCom can
monitor a patient’s response to the
surface on which he is standing,
whether it be a hill or flat. This provides information about the body’s
position and a patient’s comfort
zone for maintaining balance. It
measures how far someone can
reach before becoming unbalanced.
“This process can rule out inner
ear or neurological disorders,” said
Hamm. For example, the patient
may have a neurological issue if he
shows slow reaction times to the
moving floor and surround.
A person may require a
NeuroCom evaluation if they experience frequent falls, typically seen
www.guidetogoodhealth.com
in older patients,
or
dizziness,
which can occur at
any age. To be
considered for an
evaluation
ask
your family physician, neurologist
or ear nose and
throat specialist.
For some diagnoses,
patients
may continue to
improve their balance issues with
further treatment in the Rehab
Department.
“They can do strengthening and
stretching exercises for muscle
groups that aren’t strong, mat exercises for hips and core stabilizing
exercises like Pilates,” said Hamm.
There are also functional exercises
like walking with head turns, if the
problems are vestibular.
>
For more information,
contact Pittsburgh’s Ohio
Valley General Hospital
at (412) 777-6231.
GUIDE
TO
GOOD HEALTH 13
New Cosmetic Treatments
Available Despite
Economic Downturn
“What concerns me is that of women who require
mastectomies, only 71 percent are aware of
reconstructive options, which is a big shortfall
for plastic surgeons. It behooves us to let women
know what options are out there.”
By Vanessa Orr
million women being treated last year, a decrease of 9 percent from
the previous year,” said Dr. Paré.
ver the past year, there are a lot of things that the econAccording to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, 289,000
omy has affected, ranging from the housing market to
breast augmentations were performed in 2009, making it the most
job opportunities. But one thing that has not gotten as
Dr. Amelia Paré
popular procedure. Liposuction was down by 20 percent and
much notice, perhaps, is the fact that market ups and downs
tummy tucks decreased by 5 percent with 115,000 procedures permay also be affecting the way people look.
“In 2009, cosmetic surgery procedures were down nine percent overall,” formed.
Rhinoplasty numbers were also down about nine percent to total 256,000
explained board-certified plastic surgeon Amelia Paré, MD. “Minimally invasive procedures, such as Botox®, are down by one percent, and other areas, procedures, and patients underwent 203,000 eyelid procedures as well.
such as chemical peels and microdermabrasions, have remained relatively “Insurance will pay for the operation if a person has trouble breathing, but
will not pay for external reshaping of the nose,” explained Dr. Paré. “In eyeflat.”
Approximately 4.8 million people had Botox last year, and 1.7 million lid surgery, insurance may cover the cost of removing skin around the eye,
patients were treated with soft tissue fillers like Restylane®. Roughly 1.1 mil- but will not pay for brow reshaping, etc.”
As far as cosmetic surgeries go, there are a number of new treatments availlion patients underwent chemical peels; 900,000 patients had microderable to patients that include dermal fillers which fill in wrinkles as opposed
mabrasion and the same number had laser hair removal.
“Women account for 91 percent of cosmetic procedures, with about 12.5 to cutting them out, and different types of Botox®. “People are still considering liquid nitrogen for the removal of age spots since hydroquinone creams are not as effective,” Dr. Paré added.
While some people are choosing to use permanent fillers,
such as Artefill and Sculptra®, temporary fillers, like
Restylane® and Juvéderm™ are still more popular. Temporary
fillers are made of hyaluronic acid, a natural protein, and last
between four and six months. A person can also have his or
her own fat injected into the face, but it will grow with weight
gain, and can only be removed through liposuction.
Other popular cosmetic procedures include sclerotherapy
for veins and fat injections in hands. “Some South American
countries are injecting fat into breasts, which is very controversial in the U.S.,” added Dr. Paré. “It is thought that this may
affect mammograms, and with one in eight women already
diagnosed with breast cancer, doctors here aren’t doing anything that might make that diagnosis more complicated.”
Silicone breast implants have also been reintroduced to the
American market, though they require patients to have an MRI
every two years.
On the reconstructive side, 3.9 million procedures for cancer were performed in 2009. “What concerns me is that of
women who require mastectomies, only 71 percent are aware
of reconstructive options, which is a big shortfall for plastic
surgeons,” said Dr. Paré. “It behooves us to let women know
what options are out there.
“What a woman thinks will be a breast conserving surgery
may not be,” she added. “A surgeon may need to take onethird of a breast, which is quite noticeable in small breasts.
That’s why it’s so important to talk to your doctor; you need to
know all of your options before surgery.”
Choosing the right options for your body extends beyond
the surgical arena as well. “One issue people are currently
focusing on is whether to wear chemical or organic sunscreen,” said Dr. Paré. “Oxybenzones are chemical sunscreens
that sit on the skin, which studies show are not as safe as
chemical-free sunscreens. Zinc oxide looks hideous, but it
works—and it’s as safe as it gets.”
A new drug for melanoma, Ipilimumab, is also helping
those who stay out in the sun. “Where there were not effective
treatments before, this drug helps the immune system fight off
melanoma,” said Dr. Paré.
As people age, it’s important that they take care of the body
that they’re in, whether through plastic surgery or simply
wearing sunscreen. “Get your mammograms, PAPs and
colonoscopies,” said Dr. Paré. “Take care of what you have,
because the decisions you make now impact your future happiness.”
O
$R2OBERT,UTHER*RISALIMITEDPARTNEROF,UTHER.OEL$ENTAL!SSOCIATES,,0
14 GUIDE
TO
GOOD HEALTH
>
www.guidetogoodhealth.com
For more information on Dr. Paré’s practice, call
(724) 941-8838 or visit www.amypare.com.
Summer 2010
The Technical Details of Breast Reduction Surgery
2. YOUR SURGERY
n the past two articles
When you arrive at our
on breast reduction, I
Surgery Center or the
explained to you
Hospital on the day of
common misconceptions
your surgery, we will conand symptoms that can
firm your insurance has
be alleviated by breast
preauthorized the surgery
reduction surgery. Now, I
and an allergy-band and
would like to explain to
an identification bracelet
you the process of breast
will be put on your arm.
reduction surgery to help
An anesthesiologist will
you understand this
operation and decide if By Lori. L. Cherup, review your medical hisM.D., F.A.C.S.
tory, confirm your allerthis operation would
gies, and give you inforbenefit you, a family
mation about the anesthesia that
member, or a friend.
will be utilized. Your IV will be
inserted and IV fluids started.
1. THE PREOPERATIVE
We will mark the design of the
PROCESS
During our preoperative consul- skin pattern that we will maintain
tation we measure the dimensions the new location for your nippleof your breasts and take photos of areolar complex and the skin that
your breasts (you will not be identi- will be removed. We will give you a
fiable in any way). We determine preview of what your new breasts
which surgical bra and size you will will look like.
Our nurses will walk you into the
wear after your operation. Lastly, we
will answer any questions you have operating room, cover you with
blankets, and lay an air blowing
regarding the surgery.
We will give you instructions warmer on you. The next thing you
about laboratory tests and a mam- know you will drift into sleep.
The surgery starts by injecting
mogram, which will have to be
obtained
preoperatively,
and into your breast a dilute solution to
instruct you on preparations prior constrict the blood vessels and help
to surgery. You will also be given with numbing. The incisions are
instructions not to eat or drink any- made with a scalpel to delineate the
skin that we will maintain as we
thing from midnight the day prior.
I
begin the resection of the breast tissue. At first, we resect the inferior
breast segment below the areola.
Then, we gently lift up the side
walls of the breast and resect the
breast tissue from the outer lateral,
upper lateral and superior portion
of the breast tissue. The nipple-areolar complex is maintained with a
large amount of breast tissue behind
it, mostly coming from the superior
and medial (inside portion of the
breast). We then rotate the breast
tissue and anchor it up on to the
chest wall at a much higher location
with large sutures. The skin paddles
of the inner and outer breast skins
are then brought together in the
midline and sutured together. All of
the wounds are brought together
and a small fluted drain is inserted
into the underneath portions of the
breasts. The same process is carried
out on the opposite breast.
Two-thirds through the operation, we sit you up. We compare the
right side to the left and the nipple
level. When I am sure that I am
pleased with the dimensions, we
recline you back on the table. After
all the wounds are closed, dressings
are placed. I inject the skin with a
long acting numbing medicine
(Marcaine) and you are then
wheeled into the recovery room.
3. POSTOPERATIVE
RECOVERY
After being at home for two days,
taking antibiotics and pain medication, you will come back to the
office where we will remove the
dressings and drains. That evening,
you may take a shower and replace
your dressings. I will see you again
to note the continuation of healing
one and two weeks after surgery.
You are advised to wear your surgical sports bra for up to three weeks
after the surgery.
Around three weeks after the
surgery, you are in a normal bra and
feeling very comfortable with some
tension during some movements.
Your breasts will have a wonderful
shape and you will have much less
pain in your neck and back.
I hope I have given you all the
information you need to make a
good decision about whether this
wonderful surgery could benefit
you.
>
For more information, you
can reach Dr. Lori L. Cherup,
Diplomate, American Board
of Plastic Surgery, and
Medical Director and CEO, Radiance
Plastic Surgery, at (412) 220-8181
or [email protected] or visit
www.drcherup.com.
Endovascular Ablation of Varicose Veins
at RADIANCE Surgery Center
Minimally invasive treatment of varicose veins
• One hour out-patient procedure
• Back to normal activity usually
by the next day
• Less painful recovery than laser
• COVERED BY MOST INSURANCES
Dr. Philip Georgevich has
over 20 years of vascular
surgery experience in
Western Pennsylvania.
Schedule your appointment
at RADIANCE Surgery
Center Today.
412-249-8997
RADIANCE Surgery Center
412-220-2326
701 Boyce Road at Washington Pike
Bridgeville, PA 15017
Summer 2010
www.guidetogoodhealth.com
Before
After
GUIDE
TO
GOOD HEALTH 15
>
Focus: ORTHOPEDICS
Dr. Habib Finds Orthopedics
‘Better Than Football’
By Lois Thomson
"I was amazed by it. I couldn't believe there was actually something better than football." Something better than football? What could it possibly
be, and who could possibly think that?? Well the "what" is orthopedic
surgery, and the "who" is Dr. Gregory Flinn Habib.
Growing up, Dr. Habib was all about sports, having played five sports in
high school, and track and football in college. However, as he said,
"Unfortunately as an athlete, a lot of us end up getting hurt and we have to
meet orthopedic surgeons. So I was introduced to (surgery) when I was at
the University of Pittsburgh years ago. I got injured, was put in a cast and
couldn't do anything. So I just started asking questions (of the doctors)."
Dr. Habib became so intrigued that he was permitted to observe a surgeon
operating on a pelvic fracture. "That really excited me," he exclaimed, "I
thought it was amazing. I was like a little kid again because I couldn't
believe there was something that was as good as football. And the only
thing in my life at that time was football."
Now, Dr. Habib's practice has priority in his life: "I deal with the world
of not only sports medicine but also joint replacements. A lot of times,
sports medicine and doctors are the segue with people, especially young
people in their 20s and 30s. We see patients now with bad joints at a
younger age because people are really stretching the envelope in terms of
what they can and can't do in terms of exercise."
But rather than tell them to stop, Dr. Habib says, "We try to keep our
patients busy and active, and figure out how to fix what ails them."
The downside, he continued, is that such extremes often lead to bigger
problems, with some of those people needing joint replacements at earlier
ages. And he handles them as well. "A lot of
what we do is the arthroscopic type of procedures—whether it be the shoulder, hip,
elbow, wrist, knee, ankles. We can pretty
much do arthroscopy in all the joints of the
body. And the nice thing about it is, it is very
minimally invasive."
Dr. Habib's love of his work carries
through to his patients—he wants them to
feel as welcome and comfortable as a memDr. Gregory Flinn Habib
ber of his family. "I take pride in it, I sit
down with them and explain everything to them and make sure they understand. I run a busy practice, but sometimes it's not about the quantity, but
about the quality of work we do to keep our patients happy."
And Dr. Habib is happy with the way things turned out. "I think orthopedics is the greatest profession there is. I don't miss sports any more. I love
what I do, I'm passionate about it. I'm very fortunate."
His patients are very fortunate as well.
Ask the Orthopedic Surgeon
Q: I have been told I need
a knee replacement.
What is it?
A:
Knee replacement, or joint replacement surgery, is a surgical procedure that is
performed to replace worn-out cartilage
(the lining on the ends of the bones). Once
cartilage wears out, there are not many
alternatives aside from joint replacement.
Cartilage can be worn out from overuse,
trauma, or as a result of previous surgery.
By Allan Tissenbaum,
One of the largest contributing factors in
M.D.
our society is being overweight, which may
Washington Orthopedics
lead to the development of arthritis quicker.
and Sports Medicine
Excess weight puts more stress on the lining
of the bones, and once this cartilage begins to wear away the body is
unable to rebuild it.
With a knee replacement the goal is to restore function and to decrease
pain. Before considering knee replacement a person should have gone
through a trial of conservative therapy. This may include medications,
knee injections, weight loss and/or physical therapy. If you have tried
these treatments and your pain and function are still a problem, you
might consider replacement surgery.
During knee replacement surgery, the surgeon will replace the worn
out cartilage with a knee made of metal and plastic. The metal parts sit
on the bottom of the femur and the top of the tibia (these are the two big
leg bones). Between these metal parts there is a plastic liner that is placed
in the knee.
The surgery can be customized to the patient. Depending on what part
of the knee is worn, a surgeon may elect to only replace the worn out part
and leave the more normal parts of the knee alone. These partial knee
replacements tend to function better and have a quicker recovery. Patients
say that these feel more like their normal knee.
Joint replacement surgery is major surgery. Most patients spend 2-4
days in the hospital. Prior to undergoing this type of surgery there are a
few very important concepts to understand. You have to be patient and
very compliant with your post-operative care and therapy. The physical
therapy after surgery can last anywhere from 3- 8 weeks. In addition to
this formal therapy, it is very important to do daily exercises on your own.
You can expect a complete recovery in 2-6 months. The goal of this or
any replacement surgery is to restore function and to decrease pain, to
enable patients to lead a more normal and full life.
>
16 GUIDE
TO
GOOD HEALTH
For more information or to make
an appointment, you can reach
Dr. Habib at (412) 921-5101.
For more information or to make an appointment, you can reach
Dr. Tissenbaum at (724) 206-0610 or visit www.washortho.com.
www.guidetogoodhealth.com
Summer 2010
Mutschler Institute, Rehab Unit,
Work Well for Patients
SOUTH HILLS ORTHOPAEDIC
SURGERY ASSOCIATES
By Lois Thomson
Y
ou could say that the Mutschler Orthopedic
Institute and Canonsburg Hospital's
Rehabilitation Unit work hand in hand. Or
maybe knee in knee. Or hip in hip . . .
Dr. Thomas A. Mutschler, who specializes in knee
and joint replacement, opened his Institute in 2007
to better serve his patients. He had been working
from three different hospitals and believed that he
would have better control of their experience by conDr. Thomas A.
centrating his practice in one building.
About the same time, the Canonsburg Hospital's
Mutschler
Rehabilitation Unit opened to care for the patients
following their surgery, helping to create a seamless
transition. "We see patients right out of surgery in
our hospital setting, and then if they come to the
rehab unit, we provide therapy for them," said Anne
M. Veres, Director for Rehabilitation Services. "And
we also handle outpatient services."
She went on to explain how advantageous this
arrangement is. "Dr. Mutschler's office is right next
to our office, so it's very convenient for the patients.
They can see him and then come over to physical
Anne M. Veres
therapy or occupational therapy and schedule their
appointments. Plus, we kind of have a direct line –
we can call (the Institute) and say this patient is experiencing a problem, can
you come over and see them. We have that relationship where they might
just pop over during the patient's therapy visit to see how they're doing,
especially if we want them to look at something in particular."
Dr. Mutschler agreed. "It's working very well for the patients. We've not
had any complaints about the continuity or the quality of the care. It's very
good. We do a lot of bilateral knee replacements, and insurances pretty much
automatically allow those patients to go over. Dr. (Debra) Panucci runs 2
North, the inpatient rehabilitation unit, and she's very good. The patients
love Dr. Panucci, she does a great job with them. So I think when they go
home they're quite comfortable that they can do everything they need to do."
Along with rehabilitation following the surgery, Veres said the center provides education prior to the surgery. "The Mutschler Orthopedic Institute
has classes for patients who are considering joint replacement, and one of the
therapists goes and speaks at the classes. We also have exercises we've
designed in conjunction with Dr. Mutschler for the patients to be doing prior
to their surgery. So we're trying to be a part of it from the beginning."
Dr. Mutschler added, "The nurse does an educational program that's very
good. It's very informative for the patient about the Institute and also what
they'll experience after their hip or knee replacement – it lets them know
what is going to be expected of them, and what they can expect from the hospital and the Institute and the Rehabilitation Unit."
All of which translates into top-notch care for the patients.
>
For more information, call (724) 873-5955 or visit www.wpahs.org.
South Hills Orthopaedic Surgery Associates’ team of
highly trained medical professionals provides a wide
variety of orthopaedic care to patients of all ages.
Common procedures and treatment performed by our
orthopaedic physicians include:
• Arthroscopic Surgery
• Herniated Discs
• ACL and Rotator Cuff Repair • Kyphoplasty
• Treatment of Sports Injuries • Epidural Steroid Injections
• Surgery of the Hand and Wrist • Surgery of the Foot and Ankle
Nurses Night
at PNC Park
Saturday, Sept. 18th @ 7:05pm
Pirates vs. Arizona Diamondbacks
Zambelli Fireworks Night
____ L/R Field Box @ $21 each
= ______
Name:___________________________________
(Roberto Clemente Jersey w/ Ticket)
____ Grandstand seat @ $10 each
Shipping/handling per order
Grand total
= ______
=
$1
= ______
Address:_________________________________
MasterCard
AMEX
Summer 2010
• Total Joint Replacement
• Back and Neck Surgery
• Fracture Care
For appointments, please call 412-429-0880 or 888-817-2019
Visit our website at: www.southhillsortho.com
Phone:________________________
Discover
CC#: ______________________________ Exp:______
Check#: ________
• Carpal Tunnel Release
City:__________________ State: ____ Zip:_____
Method of Payment:
Visa
John S. Beachler, M.D. I Damon Combs, DPM
Eric D. Nabors, M.D. I David K. Mayer, CRNP
Derrick J. Fluhme, M.D. I Christopher M. Manning, M.D.
Kristina L. Ferenac, PAC
Mail orders to: Attn: Brandon Lawrence
PNC Park
115 Federal Street
Pittsburgh, PA 15212
Phone orders to: (412) 325-4964
Fax orders to:
(412) 325-4410
www.guidetogoodhealth.com
363 Vanadium Road
Pittsburgh, PA 15243
Waterdam Commons
159 Waterdam Road, Suite 120
McMurray, PA 15317
GUIDE
TO
GOOD HEALTH 17
ORTHOPEDICS
Dr. Jon B. Tucker
Constant Learning Benefits Physician and His Patients
By Ron Paglia
e earned his Medical Degree
from the University of
Pennsylvania School of
Medicine more than a quarter of a
century ago but Jon B. Tucker, M.D.,
never quits learning about his profession.
And that penchant for education
beyond the traditional classroom
and residency settings continues to
be beneficial to Dr. Tucker, an
orthopedic surgeon on staff at St.
Clair Hospital and his patients.
“An excellent medical education
prepares future physicians with the
insight and capability to absorb,
adapt, and advance along with the
ever changing practice of medicine,” Dr. Tucker said. “It’s amazing
to reflect upon the 26 years since I
was granted my medical degree, but
it’s just as amazing to remember that
it took 26 years of education and
sacrifice to get that degree.”
“A good part of that time was
spent learning how to continue
learning, evaluate, and implement
advances in medicine,” he said.
“There is very little that I do now
that I learned as a resident, but the
foundation of medical practice and
learning has never changed.”
How have the ongoing changes in
medicine impacted Dr. Tucker’s specialty and his patients?
“There are more conditions that I
can now predictably, safely, and
effectively treat with less morbidity
than ever,” he said. “In some disorders, invasive procedures such as
partial and total joint replacement
are more easily recommended due
to lower morbidity, more predictably positive outcomes and long
lasting results. In other disorders
such as chronic tendinitis, surgery
is performed less frequently due to
effective non-surgical biological
treatments.”
Dr. Tucker, who received his
Medical Degree in 1984, has a private practice with a primary office at
1082 Bower Hill Road in Mount
Lebanon. Tucker Orthopedics offers
a variety of services in joint disorders and orthopedic surgery including joint replacement, minimally
invasive knee and shoulder, surgery,
1200 Brooks Lane, Suite 240
Jefferson Hills, PA 15025
(412)469-1660
1000 Higbee Drive, Suite 106
Bethel Park, PA 15102
(412)854-5664
H
Our physicians are on staff at Jefferson
Regional Medical Center, St. Clair Memorial
Hospital and Southwestern Surgery Center.
David J. Stapor, MD • Edward D. Poon, M.D. • Mark L. Lesh, M.D.
Jeffrey M. Matheny, M.D. • Amy L. Best, PA-C • Anna M. Martin, PA-C
18 GUIDE
TO
GOOD HEALTH
small incision knee replacement,
sports medicine and treatment of
arthritis. One of most advanced procedures provided by Dr. Tucker at
St. Clair Hospital is Reversed Total
Shoulder Replacement (R-TSA),
which was approved by the U.S.
Food and Drug Administration
about eight years ago.
“The Reversed Total Shoulder
Replacement is a novel implant that
essentially inverts the biomechanics
of the shoulder joint to restore
mobility in older patients who suffer from a condition called rotator
cuff tear arthropathy, Dr. Tucker, 50,
said. “This disorder is relatively
common and is caused by progressive deterioration of the cuff of muscles and tendons which stabilize the
shoulder joint. If the rotator cuff
becomes deteriorated and incompetent, the shoulder becomes not only
arthritic but very mechanically
unstable, painful and unable to support the arm for lifting.
“When a surgeon implants an RTSA, the ‘socket’ of the shoulder is
replaced with a hemispherical
implant, and the ’ball’ is replaced
with a concave socket. This construct restores the ability of the
large deltoid muscle to move the
shoulder without a rotator cuff support. R-TSA is arguably the most
significant advance in orthopaedic
surgery of the past 20 years, offering
mobility and pain relief to an entire
class of patients for whom our specialty previously had very little to
offer. R-TSA is also being used for
certain patients suffering from complex shoulder fractures.”
Dr. Tucker’s commitment to the
medical profession goes beyond the
realm of direct patient care, but
those that he cares for and cares
about remain his top priority.
“Just about every day I encounter
people in my community that I’ve
helped through a difficult injury or
arthritic condition,” Dr. Tucker,
board certified by the American
Board of Orthopedic Surgery, said.
They are a living legacy and collectively represent my greatest
achievement.”
On a professional level, Dr.
Tucker’s service as president of the
Pennsylvania Orthopaedic Society
in 2007-08 “represented a terrific
opportunity to give back to the profession and advance the quality of
care for orthopaedic conditions in
Pennsylvania,” he said.
He also started “as a sideline” as
an inventor and now holds three
medical device patents.
www.guidetogoodhealth.com
Dr. Jon B. Tucker
“One of these I actually licensed
to a medical device manufacturer,”
he said. “It was a refreshing departure from day-to-day medical practice to work with the engineers and
manufacturer, see my invention
take form, and enter the medical
marketplace.”
Dr. Tucker also recently started a
company with my his wife, Bobbi
Britton Tucker, Esq, and sister-inlaw, Blayre Britton, Esq., that helps
the legal and insurance industry
evaluate and manage difficult injury
cases.
“We match cases with our panel
of subspecialist physicians and provide expert analysis and opinions in
these important matters,” he said.
“So we have a family business, too,
and that is also a wonderful achievement.
Dr. Tucker acknowledged that
there is “a tremendous amount of
fear and uncertainty amongst
patients and physicians regarding
the future affordability and availability of health care.”
“We as patients and doctors owe
each other the obligation of spending our health care resources wisely
and effectively so that health care is
there when we need it and for the
right reasons,” he said. “Everyone
needs to be mindful not only of the
risks versus benefits of a treatment
but also the incremental benefit of
some treatments versus cost. Just as
important is the advancement of
ethical medical practice coupled
with the quest to eliminate conflicts
of interest in the profession.
“Medical liability reform may
eventually be enacted, but I predict
the price to pay by the profession
will take the form of a loss of autonomy and flexibility in the treatment
of patients, as treatment protocols
would become mandatory in order
to limit liability.”
>
Dr. Jon B. Tucker can be
reached at (412) 276-0267
or by visiting
www.tuckerorthopedics.com.
Summer 2010
Steel Valley Orthopedic Associates
Non Operative Treatment of Knee Arthritis
By David J. Stapor, M.D.
O
steoarthritis is one of the
most prevalent health problems in the United States.
The knee is one of the most common weightbearing joints involved
with osteoarthritis. Symptoms
include pain, swelling and stiffness
(inflammation). Moderate to severe
arthritis can be distinguished by
development of deformity and progressive disability.
The arthritis process involves the
destruction of the cartilage coating
of weight bearing joint surfaces.
This results in the collapse and
destruction of the joint and ultimately produces "bone-on-bone"
wear at the end stage of the disease.
The initial treatment recommendations are non-operative. The goals
of treatment are pain relief and
improvement of function. It is often
difficult to distinguish fact from fiction with many treatment recom-
mendations, and even various nonoperative treatments for osteoarthritis of the knee can have risks as well
as benefits.
The knee is one of the most commonly involved joints with symptomatic osteoarthritis. Surgery is performed after failure of conservative
treatment and it is always the last
resort.
Weight loss takes a tremendous
amount of stress off of arthritic knee
joints. General exercises, including
quadriceps muscle-strengthening,
flexibility and aerobic conditioning,
can be effective to minimize joint
pain of osteoarthritis of the knee.
Various medications are available
for the treatment of osteoarthritis.
Tylenol/acetaminophen is commonly used as a pain reliever, Antiinflammatory medications, such as
Advil, Aleve, Motrin, and Naprosyn,
are designed to reduce the inflammatory effects of osteoarthritis, and
Celebrex a Cox II anti-inflammato-
ry medicine has less gastrointestinal
side effects than the other antiinflammatories. In general, daily
use of all of these medicines for
arthritis relief should be discussed
with treating physician.
Cortisone is an injectable medication that works rapidly to relieve
pain and swelling in the knee with
sustained relief potentially of up to a
few months time. These injections
can be repeated and are usually performed for those individuals with
moderate to severe disease.
Glucosamine and chondroitin are
oral supplements that are taken in
divided doses. Typically a two to
three month period of treatment is
necessary to determine benefits of
these medications.
Hyaluronic
acid
(Synvisc,
Euflexxa, Supartz, and Hyalgan) is
an injectable form of treatment for
osteoarthritis of the knee. It promotes lubrication and improved
function of the remaining cartilage
Dr. David J. Stapor
and also provides a degree of pain
relief.
The discussion of treatment
options is individualized, and is a
decision that should ultimately be
made by the patient and the treating
physician.
>
For more information or to
schedule an appointment,
call Steel Valley Orthopedic
Associates, P.C. at (412) 469-1660
or visit our website at
www.steelvalleyortho.com.
Coming this Fall! SPORTS INJURIES
Don’t forget to check out our website www.guidetogoodhealth.com for more Health News You Can Use!
Summer 2010
www.guidetogoodhealth.com
GUIDE
TO
GOOD HEALTH 19
ORTHOPEDICS
South Hills Orthopaedic
Surgery Associates
Patients Find Relief from All Types of
Musculoskeletal Injuries at South
Hills Orthopaedic Surgery Associates
By Vanessa Orr
O
rthopaedic problems can affect people of any age, from young athletes who suffer injuries on the field to senior citizens dealing with
the effects of degenerative bone disease. At South Hills Orthopaedic
Surgery Associates, physicians have a combined five decades of experience
helping patients recover from all aspects of musculoskeletal injuries.
Established in 1979, the five-physician practice includes co-founder and
general orthopaedist John Beachler, M.D.; foot and ankle specialist Damon
Combs, D.P.M.; spine and total joint specialist Eric Nabors, M.D.; sports
medicine specialist Derrick Fluhme, M.D.; and hand and upper extremity
specialist Christopher Manning, M.D.
“One of the things that’s unique about our practice is that four of our surgeons are fellowship trained,” explained Practice Administrator Patricia
Evans. “Fellowship training is important because it provides physicians with
the opportunity to spend an extra year concentrating on a particular specialty. While most surgeons have a three-year residency after medical school,
those who are fellowship trained undergo another year of intensive learning,
specializing in areas such as spine surgery or sports medicine.”
In addition to this advanced training, surgeons at South Hills Orthopaedic
Surgery Associates also participate in continuing education programs
throughout the year, traveling outside the region to gain more experience
and training on the latest orthopaedic surgical techniques, such as advancements made in total joint implants.
The team’s experience helps them to treat all kinds of conditions, ranging
Physicians at South Hills Orthopedic Associates include: from left to right: Dr.
Damon Combs, foot and ankle specialist; Dr. John Beachler, general
orthopaedics; Dr. Eric Nabors, spine and total joint specialist; Dr. Derrick
Fluhme, sports medicine specialist; and Dr. Christopher Manning, hand and
upper extremity specialist.
from repetitive motion injuries to damage caused by arthritis of the knees
and hips. “We perform a lot of total joint replacements, carpal tunnel surgeries and ACL reconstructions, and treat quite a number of athletic injuries,”
explained Evans. The practice also holds a Sports Injury Clinic for students
involved in high school sports each fall.
In addition to staying on top of the latest surgical techniques, doctors also
utilize the most advanced technology. “Two years ago, we installed an
Electronic Medical Record (EMR) system, making us one of the few totally
digital orthopaedic practices in the area,” said Evans. “This is a big benefit to
patients, especially on weekends when doctors aren’t in the office and need
to pull up their charts. The surgeons can look at their records anywhere that
they have Internet access, so they’re not relying on memory. And if a patient
usually sees one doctor but another doctor is on call, the on-call doctor can
pull up all of their pertinent information within minutes without having to
make the patient wait until they are in the office.“
A year-and-a-half ago, South Hills Orthopaedic Surgery Associates also
installed a PACS (Picture Archiving and Communication System), that
enables them to send patients’ X-rays to other offices and health care facilities as needed. “Through PACS, we can also access MRIs from other facilities
to provide our patients with faster, more accurate care,” said Evans. If a
patient needs copies of his or her X-rays, the practice will provide it on a CD.
While most of South Hills Orthopaedic Surgery Associates’ patients are
from Pennsylvania, Ohio and West Virginia, its surgeons also treat patients
from further away. “We do have patients who used to live in the area and who
now live out of the country in Canada, Europe and the Caribbean,” said
Evans. “Because they’ve established good relationships with our physicians
and they trust them, they come back to see us when they need to have something done. That’s a nice compliment.”
One of the goals of the practice is to get patients in to be seen as quickly
as possible; usually within two or three days. “A lots of places have much
longer waiting times, but we don’t want people to be in any more pain than
they have to,” said Evans. Patients may be referred by a PCP, the emergency
department or can refer themselves. The practice’s surgeons are affiliated
with St. Clair Hospital, Washington Hospital, Radiant Surgery Center, Mercy
Hospital and the UPMC South Hills Surgery Center.
“With our breadth of subspecialists and fellowship trained surgeons,
patients can find help for just about any orthopaedic issue, and they can find
it close to home,” said Evans.
>
20 GUIDE
TO
GOOD HEALTH
South Hills Orthopaedic Surgery Associates’ main office is located on
Vanadium Road in Scott Township and they have a satellite office on
Waterdam Road in McMurray. For more information, call (412) 429-0880
or (888) 817-2019 or visit www.southhillsortho.com.
www.guidetogoodhealth.com
Summer 2010
UPMC Passavant Designated a Blue Distinction Center for Knee and
Hip ReplacementSM and a Blue Distinction Center for Spine SurgerySM
H
ighmark Blue Cross Blue Shield has designated UPMC Passavant as
a Blue Distinction Center for Knee and Hip Replacement and as a
Blue Distinction Center for Spine Surgery. Blue Distinction Centers
are part of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association’s expansion of its Blue
Distinction® designation. The Blue Distinction designation is awarded to
medical facilities that have demonstrated expertise in delivering quality
healthcare in the areas of bariatric surgery, cardiac care, complex and rare
cancers, knee and hip replacement, spine surgery and transplants. The program is part of The Blues® efforts to collaborate with physicians and medical facilities to improve the overall quality and safety of specialty care.
“Blue Distinction puts a high value on research and evidence-based health
and medical information,” said Allan Korn, MD, Blue Cross and Blue Shield
Association chief medical officer. “Blue Distinction Centers show our commitment to working with
doctors and hospitals in com-
munities across the country to identify leading institutions that meet clinically validated quality standards and deliver better overall outcomes in
patient care.”
More than 8,000 spine procedures have been performed at UPMC
Passavant to date. “The best indicator of our spine surgery program is the
hospital’s outcome measurements, which include hospital stay, patient satisfaction, infection prevention and clinical recovery times,” said Matt El-Kadi,
MD, clinical professor and vice-chairman, Department of Neurosurgery,
UPMC, and chief of Neurosurgery at UPMC Passavant. “In addition to the
Blue Distinction Center designation from Highmark Blue Cross Blue Shield,
UPMC Passavant has also been found to be among the top reported outcomes not only in Pennsylvania, but in the nation based on CMS (Centers
for Medicare and Medicaid Services) reporting measures.”
Resource
Directory
ORTHOPAEDIC
PRACTICES
CENTER FOR ORTHOPEDICS AND
NEUROSCIENCES
THE WASHINGTON HOSPITAL
155 Wilsn Ave, Washington, PA
724-250-2824
www.washingtonhospital.org
/orthoneuro
MUTSCHLER ORTHOPAEDIC INSTITUTE
Canonsburg General Hospital
100 Medical Blvd., Canonsburg
724-873-5955
THE ORTHOPEDIC GROUP
Mt. Lebanon – 412-276-7022
Belle Vernon – 724-379-5802
Charleroi – 724-483-4880
Uniontown – 724-425-0300
SOUTH HILLS ORTHOPAEDIC
SURGERY ASSOCIATES
363 Vanadium Rd, Pittsburgh
412-429-0880
SPORTS MEDICINE & JOINT
REPLACEMENT SPECIALISTS
Dr. Gregory Flinn Habib
995 Greentree Rd., Pittsburgh
412-921-5101
STEEL VALLEY ORTHOPEDIC
ASSOCIATES, P.C.
1200 Brooks Lane, Suite 240,
Jefferson Hills, 412-469-1660
1000 Higbee Dr., Suite 106,
Bethel Park, 412-854-5664
TUCKER ORTHOPEDICS
1082 Bower Hill Rd., Suite 100,
Pittsburgh - 412-276-0267
WASHINGTON ORTHOPEDICS
& SPORTS MEDICINE
95 Leonard Ave, Building 1
Suite 202, Washington, PA
724-206-0610
www.washortho.com
Coming this Fall!
Sport Injuries
Summer 2010
www.guidetogoodhealth.com
GUIDE
TO
GOOD HEALTH 21
Washington City Mission Takes a
Holistic Approach to Helping the Homeless
By Nancy Kennedy
A
t Washington City Mission,
the staff and volunteers are
committed to not only treating the complex problems associated with homelessness, but with
ending homelessness by addressing
its root causes and raising awareness of its many dimensions.
The Mission is the largest homeless shelter in Southwestern
Pennsylvania, and has been in operation since 1941. Over the course
of almost seventy years, the facility
has expanded in size and scope of
services, growing and improving
constantly to meet the needs of the
region’s poor and homeless. But
that is not easily done, and as City
Mission strives to meet the increasing demand created by the current
economy, the staff is reaching out to
the community to become
involved.
“We take a holistic approach to
homelessness,” says Dean Gartland,
Washington City Mission president. “We consider the whole person rather than simply tackle symptoms and problems. Our ultimate
goal is self-sufficiency, and we
begin with the most fundamental
MAKING A DIFFERENCE
for those residents who have
no insurance, have inadequate insurance, or are
unable to navigate the healthcare system. Cindy Slivka,
CRNP, the clinic’s director,
says the clinic “fills in the
gaps” by offering some primary, preventive and health
education services. “We have
a network of volunteer physiDean Gartland,
Cindy Slivka,
cians, but we need more docWashiington City
Director of the free
tors and nurses to help us in
Mission President
Medical Clinic
our weekly clinic. Many of
our clients need mental
needs, for food and shelter, to help health care and have to be monithe person get stabilized. Each tored for their response to medicaclient then goes through an assess- tions.”
ment process with our case manSlivka states that the goal of the
agers in order to identify the barri- clinic is to get clients into primary
ers that prevent them from manag- care and help them become better
ing their lives independently. An health care consumers. “Our clients
individualized service plan is devel- tend to stay away from doctors
oped, addressing five core areas: unless they are sick or in pain, so
housing, employment, income we emphasize preventive and self
development, recovery (from med- care. We teach them to navigate the
ical, mental health or substance health care system and act as advoabuse issues) and spirituality.”
cates for them. We serve all ages
One of the most significant barri- but we link children to pediatric
ers to self sufficiency is lack of professionals.”
access to preventive and therapeuCity Mission operates emergency
tic medical care. City Mission’s free and long term shelters and operates
medical clinic acts as a safety net at capacity. The average length of
stay is 90 days, although Gartland
says that they see better success
rates with stays of 120-180 days.
“We define success by having an
ideal outcome for each of our core
areas. If a client is able to integrate
75% of those outcomes into their
life, that is success.
“People need to understand that
homelessness can happen to anyone. At City Mission, we’re committed to ending homelessness one
person at a time, and to changing
the perception. The nameless, faceless image of homelessness can be
erased by hands-on involvement
from the community. We are a nonprofit, supported largely by individual donations and while we are
grateful for that financial support,
we encourage people to contribute
their time and talents also. Our volunteers are critical to our continued
success and there are many ways to
help and be connected.”
IF YOU WOULD LIKE TO
LEARN MORE ABOUT
VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES
at The Mission, contact
Cortney Brock at (724) 228-9240
ext 236; [email protected] or
visit www.citymission.org.
>
Medical Imaging
at
Canonsburg
General Hospital
We see it clearer,
shouldn’t you and your doctor?
Canonsburg General Hospital offers
the latest technology, experienced and caring staff,
and hours of operation that are convenient
for you and your specific schedule.
CANONSBURG
GENERAL HOSPITAL
22 GUIDE
TO
GOOD HEALTH
Canonsburg General Hospital offers:
• New Digital Mammography
• Expanded hours for PET/CT Scans
• MRI
• Stereotactic Biopsy Procedures
• Breast MRI
For more information or to schedule an appointment
call 724-745-3904.
www.guidetogoodhealth.com
Summer 2010
UPCOMING EVENTS
TO BENEFIT
THE MISSION
July 17
Gospel Sing
July 31
City of Washington Bicentennial Celebration
10 am to Noon – History, Heritage & Heroes Parade,
Mission surprise guest
11 am to 6 pm – Mission Booth in the Community Tent,
Fun for Kids!
August 15
September 14
September 30
Jazz in the Park
5th Annual Ladies Golf Scramble
2nd Annual Celebrate Success
October 10
“Hope for the Homeless” Art Auction
February 13, 2011
17th Annual Sweet Sunday Dessert Festival
MINISTRIES of WASHINGTON CITY MISSION
Washington City Mission Men’s Shelter
•
•
•
•
•
James Arbuckle Medical Clinic
The Legal Clinic
“Feed My Sheep” Dining Room
Donation and Recycling Center
Vehicle Donation Program
(100% of the sale of donated vehicles goes to the Mission)
• Maintenance and Repair Facility
• Samaritan Outreach
WE CARE Street Outreach
Online Sales Store
Hidden Treasures Stores of:
Canonsburg
48 W. Pike Street
724-745-5512
Donora
567 McKean Avenue
724-379-7434
Washington
770 Jefferson Avenue
724-228-8670
Waynesburg
78 W. High Street
724-852-1519
Visit www.citymission.org for details about events and ministries.
Summer 2010
www.guidetogoodhealth.com
GUIDE
TO
GOOD HEALTH 23
The COMPASS
Clinical Study
EYE CARE
August is Cataract Awareness Month
By Laurie Bailey
How do you
20.5 million Americans over the age of 40 have
know if you
cataracts – one of the most curable causes of vision
loss. And the surgery to remove them is one of the
have a cataract?
safest and effective.
“You get almost instant return of vision,” said Dr.
• Gradual painless
Ivan Baumwell of Sewickley Eye Group, adding that
blurring of vision
the surgery has a 98% success rate.
A cataract is not a growth. Painless and slow form• Double vision in one
ing, cataracts cloud the eye’s normally clear lens. As
eye or fading or
they develop, they block the passage of light required
yellowing of colors
Dr. Ivan Baumwell
for vision.
• Sensitivity to glare
“Now, we don’t hesitate to offer cataract surgery to people who feel that
and/or bright light
they are ready for it,” said Dr. Baumwell, dispelling the age-old rumor that a
while driving at night
cataract must be “ripe,” or when the entire lens is opaque, before it is
removed.
• Frequent changes to
Decades ago, cataract surgery meant a 2-week stay in the hospital with
glasses or contact
your head immobilized in sandbags. Recovery time was much longer and the
lens prescription
only way to rehabilitate vision was with thick “cataract glasses.”
“It really wasn’t worth going through until you were virtually blind from
the cataract,” said Dr. Baumwell.
Now, cataracts are removed through a procedure called phaco emulsification. The cataract is liquefied so
that it can be delicately sucked through a self-sealing incision that is one-tenth of an inch or less in length.
A new, clear lens is surgically implanted. It’s a fairly quick procedure, usually lasting no more than 15 minutes.
Patients are awake during the surgery with intravenous sedation that is monitored by an anesthesiologist. Following the surgery, there are very little restrictions.
“The day of surgery, we ask that patients take it easy because of the sedation. We see them the day after,
and they can resume normal activity,” he explained. Patients usually are able to bend or lift, but they
shouldn’t swim for two weeks.
The American Academy of Ophthalmology suggests that if you think you have a cataract, and it is interfering with your lifestyle, you don’t have to live with it. Talk to your eye doctor about your options.
>
Pittsburgh area residents have the
opportunity to participate in a clinical
research study of an investigational treatment for patients with glaucoma who
also are in need of cataract surgery.
Dr. John Nairn, an investigator at
Associates in Ophthalmology, is conducting a study of an investigational
device designed to reduce pressure in the
eye. Buildup of eye pressure can damage
the optic nerve of the eye causing glaucoma. The device, called the CyPass
Implant, is placed in the eye at the time of
cataract surgery. The CyPass Implant is
“investigational”, which means it has not
been approved by FDA for sale in the U.S.
AM I A CANDIDATE?
You may be a candidate
for this study if you:
• Are at least 45 years of age
• Have primary open angle glaucoma,
and
• Have a cataract that needs to be
removed.
Your eye doctor must also review your
medical and ophthalmic history and perform a series of eye tests to further assess
your eligibility to participate in the clinical
study.
If you are interested in learning more
details about the COMPASS Clinical
Study, contact Michelle Colwell at
Associates in Ophthalmology. She can
be reached at (412) 653-3080 ext. 1041
or [email protected].
For more information, contact the Sewickley Eye Group at one of their four locations: Sewickley,
(412) 741-4610; McKees Rocks, (412) 777-4300; Monaca (724) 770-9000, Avalon, (412) 766-4800.
Lifestyle Intraocular Lenses and Cataract Surgery
C
that will generate a more spectacle
ataracts play a normal role in
independent lifestyle. For those
the aging process of the eye.
patients who enjoy near-vision activAlthough the majority of
ities such as reading or for those who
cataracts are found in those over
wish to be less glasses dependent,
the age of fifty-five, they can also be
multifocal lens and accommodative
apparent in younger eyes. A
lens offer a fuller range of vision.
cataract is a clouding of the natural
Patients implanted with these
lens of the eye, resulting in blurred
“lifestyle lenses” enjoy glasses indeor distorted vision.
pendence eighty-five percent of the
Cataract surgery entails the
time during their daily visual activiremoval of the eye’s cloudy lens and
ty.
replacing it with an artificial
The AcrySof ReSTOR, a multifocal
By
Lisa
M.
Cibik,
intraocular lens or IOL. Before
lens, approved by the FDA in 2005,
M.D., F.A.C.S.
IOLs were first performed in 1981,
works to create a consistent transia patient was left dependent on
contact lenses or thick cataract glasses. The basic tion of light between near, intermediate and disand most common IOL is the monofocal lens, tant focal points.
Accommodation is the ability of the eye’s natwhich sets the vision at one focal point, typically
ural crystalline lens to quickly adjust and focus
for distant-vision, near vision or monovision.
Today’s IOL technology has given cataract throughout the range of vision. Crystalens, an
patients the opportunity to choose a lens implant accommodative lens, is an implant that aims to
imitate the natural lens’ ability to accommodate.
This IOL moves and flexes with the eye in a natural manner in order to maintain a clear image as
it focuses on near, intermediate and far objects.
IOL advancement has also wrestled the refractive obstacle of astigmatism through the development of the Toric IOL. Astigmatism is defined as
an irregular oblong corneal shape that can distort
vision at all distances and affects twenty percent
of cataract patients. Before the Toric lens, a
patient with significant astigmatism was left to
depend on glasses to correct both astigmatism
and near vision.
With the new technology lenses, the cataract
patient can now choose to have more “youthful,”
uncorrected visual acuity.
Dr. Lisa Cibik is with Associates in
Ophthalmology. Offices are located in
West Mifflin, Butler, Greensburg, Meadville,
Monroeville, Uniontown, and Wheeling.
For more information, call (888) 634-9800.
>
Visit our website at www.guidetogoodhealth.com for more information on Medical Studies
24 GUIDE
TO
GOOD HEALTH
www.guidetogoodhealth.com
Summer 2010
Summer 2010
www.guidetogoodhealth.com
GUIDE
TO
GOOD HEALTH 25
WASHINGTON PHYSICIAN HOSPITAL O
Our Primary
Care Physicians . . .
provide the high quality healthcare you need close to home.
F – Family Practice
I – Internal Medicine
P – Pediatrics
Fredericktown
Washington Family Medicine Center (F)
724-223-3100
Jeffrey Minteer, MD
T. Grant Phillips, MD
W. Paul Slomiany, MD
Matthew Stantspainter, DO
Kimberle Vore, MD
Centerville Clinics, Inc. (F)
724-632-6801
Yong Cho, MD
Hickory
Sharpnack & Maskarinec Medical
Group, PC (F)
724-356-2273
Bruce Maskarinec, DO
Bruce Sharpnack, MD
Washington Internal Medicine, Ltd. (I)
724-222-9300
Patricia Friedsam, MD
Harry Silvis, MD
Houston
Atlasburg
Dan G. Alexander, M.D. (I)
724-947-5535
Dan Alexander, MD
WPSO/Houston Internal Medicine (I)
724-745-9150
Henry Folb, MD
McDonald
Avella
Avella Family Practice, LLC (F)
724-587-3472
Sean Porbin, MD
WPSO/McDonald Family Medicine (F)
724-926-8001
Aaron Lenhart, DO
Matthew Stantspainter, DO
Bentleyville
McMurray
Centerville Clinics, Inc. (F)
724-239-2390
Sheila Anderson, DO
Brian Szklinski, MD
Burgettstown
Cornerstone Care (F)
724-947-2255
Julie DeRosa, MD
Coleen Wheeler, MD
Sharpnack & Maskarinec Medical
Group, PC (F)
724-947-4770
Bruce Maskarinec, DO
Bruce Sharpnack, MD
offers comprehensive
services at convenient
locations in Washington
and Greene counties.
Waterdam Family Practice (F)
724-942-4372
David Mittell, MD
Washington
WPSO/McMurray Internal Medicine (I)
724-942-6480
Henry Folb, MD
Robert Lesnock, MD
WPSO/McMurray Family Medicine (F)
724-942-4011
Kurt King, MD
Canonsburg
WPSO/Waterdam Pediatrics (P)
724-942-6499
Gary Smith, MD
Centerville Clinics, Inc. (F)
724-966-5081
Rebecca Plute, MD
Cecil
Cecil Family Medicine Center (F)
724-873-7414
Sarah Duncan, MD
Matthew Eisley, MD
Melissa Kashlan, MD
Claysville
Claysville Family Practice (F)
724-663-7731
Frederick Landenwitsch, MD
Elizabeth Oshnock, DO
Janine Rihmland, MD
John Six, MD
Abigail Templeton, MD
Jay Ziegler, MD
Cokeburg
Alvaro N. Changco, MD, Inc. (F)
724-945-6128
Alvaro Changco, MD
Eighty-Four
Kevin G. Boehme, MD/Family Medicine (F)
724-228-2488
Kevin Boehme, MD
26 GUIDE
TO
GOOD HEALTH
The Washington Hospital —
inpatient and outpatient services including:
Cancer Care
Cardiac Care
Emergency Care
Ortho-Neuro Services
Ruth York Morgan Health Education
Learning Place
Women’s Health Services
Centerville Clinics, Inc. (F)
724-223-1067
Daniel Holt, MD
Mark Mamros, MD
Jennifer Muhly, MD
Jill Sharer, MD
Eugene Skiffington, MD
Wilfred R. Cameron Wellness Center of
The Washington Hospital
Health and Fitness Center
Outpatient Physical and
Occupational Therapy
Cardiac Rehabilitation
Work Conditioning Services
Diabetes Education and
Management Program
Spa Harmony
Corporate Wellness Services
Sports Medicine
Pulmonary Support Center
Wound and Skin Healing Center
Cornerstone Care-Pediatric Associates of
Washington (P)
724-228-7400
Edward Foley, MD
Karen Jooste, MD
Neighbor Health Center
Laboratory
Radiology
Occupational Medicine Center
Women’s Health Center
Washington
Crossing the Jordan Christian Health Center (F)
724-222-7159
Michael Falcione, MD
Craig D. Fox, MD (F)
724-228-4550
Craig Fox, MD
Internal Medicine and
Geriatrics of Washington (I)
724-222-4464
Richard Hahn, MD
William Kottner, MD
James Krebs, MD
Tylerdale Family Medicine (F)
724-222-7240
Nicholas Fuerst, MD
Sean Kelly, DO
Dennis Kitsko, DO
WPSO/WASHPA Family Medicine (F)
724-225-9970
Christa Malinak, MD
Sunaina Nangia, MD
Waynesburg
WPSO/Waynesburg Family Medicine (F)
724-627-8080
Dylan Deatrich, MD
Rachel Schroer, DO
Sherry Zimmerman, MD
Hospice Care of
The Washington Hospital
Greenbriar Treatment Center
Inpatient Drug and Alcohol
Rehabilitation Services
Strabane Trails of Washington
Senior Independent Living
Strabane Woods of Washington
Senior Assisted Living
WPSO/California Family Medicine (F)
724-938-7466
Mylaina Sherwood, MD
Carmichaels
WPSO/Southwest Internal Medicine
724-229-7570
Douglas Corwin, MD
Richard Hart, MD
The Washington
Hospital . . .
Complete Family Care (F)
724-260-0830
Frederick Landenwitsch, MD
Elizabeth Oshnock, DO
Janine Rihmland, MD
John Six, MD
Abigail Templeton, MD
Jay Ziegler, MD
California
Canonsburg Family Medicine Center (F)
724-745-4100
Lisa Goss, MD
Peter Martina, DO
Kristen Romesburg, DO
Monica Speicher, MD
WPSO/Dennis Davis, MD (F)
724-223-8626
Dennis Davis, MD
WPSO/Washington Pediatric
& Adolescent Medicine (P)
724-250-6001
Michael Faust, MD
Civie Felice, MD
Tina Lengauer, DO
Richelle Sommerfield, MD
www.washingtonhospital.org
Burgettstown
Diagnostic Center
Laboratory
Radiology
Canonsburg
Diagnostic Center
Laboratory
McMurray
Waterdam Medical Plaza
Laboratory
Radiology
EKGs
Waynesburg
Greene County Medical Plaza
Laboratory
Radiology
EKGs
Hospice Care of
The Washington Hospital
724-225-7000
Tri-State Surgery
Center . . .
Outpatient Surgical
Services
Urgent Care
Center . . .
Urgent Care Services
Affiliated with
The Washington Hospital
www.guidetogoodhealth.com
95 Leonard Avenue
Washington, PA 15301
724-225-8800
3515 Washington Road
McMurray, PA 15317
724-969-4321
Summer 2010
ORGANIZATION PROVIDER NETWORK
Our Specialist
Physicians . . .
have offices conveniently located
in the community.
Allergy and Immunology
Allergy & Asthma Care
724-941-6780
Nikhil Davé, MD
Ohio Valley Asthma & Allergy Institute
800-473-8912
Kumar Patel, MD
Krishna Urval, MD
Anesthesiology
Keystone Anesthesia Consultants, Ltd.
724-222-7167
Lee Bischof, DO
Joseph Brula, MD
Gray Goncz, DO
Ajoy Katari, MD
James Massucci, MD
Christopher Merck, DO
David Odasso, MD
Cardiac Electrophysiology
Regional Cardiovascular & Medical Center, Inc.
724-222-0436
Maninder Bedi, MD
Kataneh Maleki, MD
Cardiology
General Surgery
Ophthalmology
Podiatry
WPSO/Angott Surgical Associates
724-222-9500
Brent Angott, DO
Natalie Furgiuele, MD
412-833-9722
Natalie Furgiuele, MD
Pareso and Brown Surgical Associates, Ltd.
724-225-7300
Dennis Brown, MD
James Pareso, MD
Jason Tomsic, DO
Washington Surgical Services
724-229-1344
Carlos Valladares, DO
E. Ronald Salvitti, MD, Inc.
724-228-2982
E. Ronald Salvitti, MD
Jennifer Salvitti Davis, MD
Frederick J. Scheib, MD, PC
724-223-0700
Frederick Scheib, MD
Washington Eye Center, Inc.
724-222-3937
Paul Caimano, DO
Canonsburg Podiatry Associates
724-746-1870
Kathryn Weldy, DPM
Cynthia B. Hatfield, DPM
724-222-8883
Cynthia Hatfield, DPM
Grossman Podiatry Center
724-222-5230
Adam Grossman, DPM
McMurray Ankle and Foot Care
724-745-6055
Mark Hofbauer, DPM
Philip S. Pinsker, DPM
724-225-7410
Philip Pinsker, DPM
WPSO/Marks Podiatry Associates
724-222-5635
James Marks, DPM
Hospitalist Medicine
HMP of Washington County, LLC
724-579-1654
Donald Faith, MD
Rick Greco, DO
Stephen Keen, MD
Mahamadu Maida, MD
Amy Meister, DO
Jaime Mullin, DO
Thomas Parambil, MD
William Pendergast, MD
Andrew Reibach, MD
Infectious Diseases
WPSO/Washington Infectious Diseases
Associates
724-206-9149
Atif Saeed, MD
Bryan C. Donohue, MD, PC
724-222-1125
Christopher Allen, MD
Bryan Donohue, MD
John Pensock, MD
Yadavendra Rajawat, MD
Francis Redican, MD
Sanjaya Saheta, MD
Medical Oncology
Frazier-Hart, Inc.
724-225-6500
Charles Brown, MD
David Campsey, MD
John Costello, MD
John Frazier, MD
Neil Hart, MD
Michael Pecora, MD
James Richardson, MD
John Wilson, MD
Nephrology
Cardiovascular and
Thoracic Surgery
McGinnis Thoracic & Cardiovascular Associates
412-359-6137
Mathew Van Deusen, MD
Oncology Hematology
Association
724-223-3816
Patrick Kane, MD
Alexis Megaludis, MD
Wayne Pfrimmer, MD
Dialysis Clinics, Inc.
724-229-8834
Jessie Ganjoo, MD
Amit Nahata, MD
Southwestern Nephrology, Inc.
724-228-1303
Shirley Dopson, DO
Subramoniam Jayakumar, MD
Teredesai, McCann & Associates, PC
724-228-2611
Cynthia West, MD
Neurological Surgery
Three Rivers Cardiac Institute
724-228-8585
Ross DiMarco, MD
Hazem El-Khatib, MD
Alice Pierce, MD
Antonio Sortino, MD
G. Frederick Woelfel, MD
Allegheny General Hospital
Department of Neurosurgery
724-228-1414
David Cohen, MD
Patrick Flannagan, MD
Michael Oh, MD
E. Richard Prostko, MD
Frank Vertosick, MD
Donald Whiting, MD
Chiropractic
Neurology
Chiropractic Care Center
724-223-9700
Duane Marasco, DC
Dermatology
Ann B. McCune, MD
724-942-0610
Ann McCune, MD
Vujevich Dermatology Associates
724-228-7006
Kristina Paley, MD
Marion Vujevich, MD
Justin Vujevich, MD
Emergency Medicine
EmCare
724-223-3085
Douglas Corkum, MD
Amarjith Mally, MD
Pascal Phares, MD
Thomas Pirosko, DO
Gastroenterology
Southwest Gastroenterology Associates
724-941-3020
Philip Joson, MD
Richard Panicco, DO
Mohan Phanse, MD
WPSO/Pezzone Gastroenterology Associates
724-503-4637
Michael Pezzone, MD
Summer 2010
Adult Neurology Center, PC
724-229-6195
Kent Berkey, MD
Bruce Cotugno, MD
Evgeniy Shchelchkov, MD
SW PA Neurology Associates, Ltd.
724-228-4011
Melvin Alberts, MD
Tatyana Barsouk, MD
Karen Tobin, MD
Obstetrics/Gynecology
Frank J. Brooks, DO, OB/GYN
724-942-3180
Frank Brooks, DO
WPSO/Washington OB/GYN Associates
724-225-3640
Jennifer D’Abarno, MD
William Mitsos, MD
Malay Sheth, MD
Kathryn Simons, MD
Kevin Stocker, MD
Marianne Wizda, MD
Michael Zinsser, MD
Occupational Medicine
The Washington Hospital
Occupational Medicine
724-223-3528
George Schmieler, MD
Oral/Maxillofacial Surgery
Joseph S. Nawrocki, MD, DMD
724-225-3022
Joseph Nawrocki, MD, DMD
Sherman Spatz, DMD Associates in
Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery
724-222-3422
Sherman Spatz, DMD
Western PA Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery
724-223-0579
Steven Krakora, MD, DMD
Orthopedic Surgery
Advanced Orthopaedics & Rehabilitation, LLC
724-225-8657
800-828-CAST (2278)
Armando Avolio, Jr., MD
Gregory Christiansen, MD
John Gibbons, MD
Patrick McCulloch, MD
Vincent Ripepi, DO
Michael Scheel, MD
Joseph Stracci, DO
Steven Theis, MD
David Welker, MD
Anthony C. Canterna, MD, LLC
724-222-5940
Anthony C. Canterna, MD
WPSO/Washington Orthopedics
& Sports Medicine
724-206-0610
Steven Frey, MD
Allan Tissenbaum, MD
Otolaryngology
Eugene F. Paluso, MD, Ltd.
724-228-0782
Eugene Paluso, MD
Jeffrey B. Banyas, MD, LLC
724-942-3502
Jeffrey Banyas, MD
Washington Ear, Nose and Throat, LLC
724-225-8995
Howard Goldberg, MD
Edward Stafford, MD
Psychiatry
Psychiatric Care Systems, PC
724-941-4070
Oscar Urrea, MD
WPSO/Washington Behavioral
Health Associates
724-579-1075
Nicholas Carosella, MD
Pulmonary Medicine
Integrated Pulmonary Physicians
724-222-3215
Rajashekar Adurty, MD
Omer Bajwa, MD
Bryan Veynovich, DO
Daniel A. Iracki, MD
724-228-3733
Daniel Iracki, MD
SW PA Pulmonary & Sleep Medicine, Ltd.
724-222-2577
Jeffrey Godwin, MD
Charles Koliner, MD
Raed Wahab, MD
Radiation Oncology
Triangle Radiation Oncology – UPMC
724-223-3788
Michael Dougherty, MD
Radiology
Interventional Pain Institute
724-222-5471
W. Michael Fussell, DO
Greater Washington Radiologists, Inc.
724-223-3300
Giovanna Aracri, DO
William Castro, MD
William Conroy, MD
William Downer, MD
Kenneth Edgar, MD
Michelle Kirshen, MD
David Leukhardt, MD
Dina Novitskaya, MD
Phyllis Walters, MD
Palliative Medicine
Radiology - Interventional
Pain Management
Washington Hospital Hospice
and Palliative Medicine
724-250-4500
Jeffrey F. Minteer, MD
Pathology
Pathology Associates of Washington
724-223-3137
Lawrence Lee, MD
Alden McBee, MD
Richard Pataki, MD
Physical Medicine and
Rehabilitation
Associates in Physical
Medicine & Rehabilitation
724-223-9270
Michael Platto, MD
Debra J. Panucci, MD, LLC
412-862-6938
Debra Panucci, MD
Anthony N. Ricci, MD, PC
724-228-4106
Anthony Ricci, MD
Medical Rehabilitation, Inc.
724-206-0293
Todd Franco, DO
Plastic Surgery
Amelia Paré, MD
724-941-8838
Amelia Paré, MD
www.guidetogoodhealth.com
Interventional Radiology Specialists, Inc.
724-223-3059
Carl DiGiorgio, DO
Jeffrey Hilger, MD
Stephen Kelminson, MD
Brian Schiro, MD
Philip Wildenhain, MD
Rheumatology
Arthritis and Rheumatology
Associates of SW PA
724-228-8856
David Seaman, MD
Urgent Care
Urgent Care Center
724-969-4321
Mary Lamb, MD
Ediri Montoya, MD
Susan Pilossoph, MD
Urology
Anand Karamcheti, MD
724-222-8871
Anand Karamcheti, MD
Triangle Urological Group
724-884-0883
George Jones, MD
Timothy P. Weyrich, MD
724-942-3963
Timothy Weyrich, MD
GUIDE
TO
GOOD HEALTH 27
Dr. Robert Luther, Jr / Dental
>
Dr. Luther Treats
Patients As Himself
By Lois Thomson
D
espite the advancements
that have been made in the
past couple of decades,
many people still fear going to the
dentist. Perhaps it's time for those
people to meet Dr. Robert Luther, Jr.
"My philosophy for every patient
I see," Dr. Luther said, "is to place
myself in the chair and hope I can
treat them the way I would want to
be treated when I'm in the chair.
And if you do that you'll do a good
job."
When Dr. Luther started his practice more than 30 years ago, he
wanted his patients to appreciate
having work done by people they
were familiar with. "We made an
effort to educate ourselves broadly
in dentistry so our patients could
have a lot of services performed
here. We started doing orthodontics
and ultimately started placing
implants and doing a lot of surgery
and root canals, things that aren't
typically done in a general practice.
By having a broad knowledge of the
different aspects of dentistry, it
helps you to plan your cases better
and deliver a better product for the
patient. Our patients appreciate the
convenience and familiarity."
That caring attitude extends to
the staff as well. "This is a cliché,
but we want to use the personal
touch, and do everything we can to
DR. TYSON SWIGART
Certified Sports Physician
Certified Conditioning Specialist
(724) 873-0700
Morganza Road, Suite 105, Canonsburg, PA 15317
www.southpointechiropractic.com
make the procedures as comfortable
as we possibly can. I think developing a staff that is warm and caring is
absolutely critical, and I owe a lot to
my staff because they provide that.
Our patients know the staff and
they're comfortable with them."
Dr. Luther has put a lot of thought
into the practice of dentistry since
his Dad first suggested it. "He had
thrown it out as something I ought
to think about. He thought it was a
profession that was well-respected in
the community and provided a nice
lifestyle, but that you still had a life of
your own with a fairly regular schedule. I wrote my career report in 8th
grade on dentistry, and I decided
around that time that I'd like to be a
dentist."
The idea of dentistry was attractive to Dr. Luther because it combined his interest in science with
his love of working with his hands,
a skill he nurtured early-on as he
built many models as a child. "It
had an appeal, I think, because it
had that combination that's not
always present—using your brain,
and also using your hands, and
making the two work together to
help people."
Dr. Luther was born in New
Jersey, and lived in Ohio and
Syracuse, New York, before arriving
in Pittsburgh. He attended Virginia
Military Institute, then transferred
to the University of Pittsburgh to
For more information, call
(412) 788-6300 or visit
www.pittsburghlaserdentist.com.
graduate, and went on to earn his
degree in dentistry there. It was during his college days that he became
passionate about something in addition to dentistry.
"I'm a history buff and I love the
Civil War in particular," he said.
"That's been my major hobby since
I started college at VMI. The school
fought in the War as a unit for the
Confederacy, so it was steeped in
Civil War history."
Dr. Luther was therefore both
pleased and amazed when he
opened his practice in Oakdale, to
learn that two of his ancestors who
fought in the Civil War are buried in
a cemetery just three miles from his
office. He said his grandmother had
heard a rumor about his family
being in the War, "So I took it upon
myself to be the family historian
and did my research, and I was very
fortunate to find that I had ancestors who fought in the Civil War,
and that my ancestry in
Pennsylvania went back into the
1700s. It was very exciting for me to
find direct participants in my family.
And that opened up a whole world
because I could visit the (battlefields) and study the battles. Isn't
that some sort of Divine
Providence?"
Although Dr. Luther has been in
practice for 34 years, he has no
plans to retire from his practice.
"I'm going to keep doing this as
long as I can, because I enjoy it.
Things progress and you have to
stay up with techniques and technology, so it's always challenging to
get better, both in the services you
deliver and also in the way you care
for patients. I’m still interested in
doing that and I plan to continue for
quite a while."
So those folks who fear visiting a
dentist still have time to make an
appointment with Dr. Luther.
St. Clair Hospital’s Chairman of
Emergency Services Named 2010
Emergency Physician of the Year
Combining Chiropractic care with
corrective exercise, advanced flexibility
training and therapeutic massage to
eliminate pain. Specialty exercise
program for joint replacement and gastric
bypass patients, lowback pain, neck pain
and scoliosis.
Blue Cross/Blue Shield, Health America, and UPMC network providers. Most insurance accepted without referrals.
28 GUIDE
TO
GOOD HEALTH
The Pennsylvania Chapter, American College of
Emergency Physicians (PA ACEP) has named
Christopher DeLuca, M.D., FACEP, its 2010
Emergency Physician of the Year. Dr. DeLuca is
Chairman of Emergency Services at St. Clair
Dr. Christopher
Hospital, Mt. Lebanon. In a statement, the PA
DeLuca
ACEP said: “Dr. DeLuca is a dedicated and outstanding clinician and manager. During his tenure as department chair, his
ideas, leadership, and process improvements resulted in improved patient
care and satisfaction, and his hospital receiving three awards for clinical
improvement, patient flow innovation, and teamwork.
www.guidetogoodhealth.com
Summer 2010
Dr. Samina Naseer
Living with Pain...
Is Now in the Past.
Treating All Ages at Pittsburgh’s
Primary Care Center
By Laurie Bailey
S
amina Naseer, M.D., of Pittsburgh’s
Ohio Valley General Hospital always
knew she wanted to be a doctor. And
she has never regretted her decision since
entering medical school and completing
degrees in medicine and surgery. Dr. Naseer
completed her residency in Family
Medicine at Western Pennsylvania Hospital
- Forbes Regional Campus in 2008.
“I wanted to have a taste of everything,”
she says of her specialty.
And as director of Pittsburgh’s Primary
Care Center at Mt. Nebo Commons she is
getting just that, treating patients of all ages
from childhood to the elderly. Offering services from women’s health to minor procedures, Dr. Naseer also lends her expertise as
a wound consultant. At the wound care
center, she treats a myriad of wound-related
uses, including chronic non-healing ulcers
and post-surgical issues (for example a
wound not closing).
“More than 60% of what we see are diabetic-related,” she says.
It is a joy for her to treat patients of all ages. Her young patients are full of
energy and interesting questions.
“I had a child ask me if I could see what was in his brain while I examined
his ear,” she laughs.
But there’s a special place in her heart for her geriatric patients.
“They have many issues. They have so much to carry,” she says. “They can
be in distress because of their multiple medical issues.”
Dr. Naseer finds the older population is much more compliant than the
younger. In fact, it’s one of the best reasons, she believes, for practicing medicine in Western Pennsylvania. As a whole, geriatric patients are more diligent about taking medications, are on-time for their appointments, “and
they are friendly,” she adds.
“Maybe it’s because they have lived through phases (past anger) of accepting their illnesses and are to the maintenance phases,” she says. The older
patients realize they need to take care of themselves. You really have to be
very patient,” she says.
Patience and being a good listener are key components to being a successful physician.
“I think it’s most important to get acquainted with your patients and
develop a relationship and listen to what they have to say,” she explains. In
addition to their pain, patients may have other issues, like divorce or loss of
a loved one, contributing to their overall health.
“Tight control of health insurances in Western Pennsylvania sometimes
restricts the physician to provide the quality of care to the patients which
really saddens me," she adds.
“It’s a very, very demanding profession, especially for females who still
have to take care of their family … kids always seem to want their mother,”
she graciously admits.
Dr. Naseer says she admires her own mother because it was from her that
she learned patience. As a teacher, her mother was required to listen to her
students, and work through learning difficulties to help them succeed. As a
physician, Dr. Naseer listens to her patients, working through their medical
issues to help them lead healthy lives.
For now, she is focusing on establishing her practice at the Primary Care
Center and strengthening the doctor-patient bond.
***********
Pittsburgh’s Primary Care Center is currently offering a FREE HEALTH CHECK
BLOOD SCREENING, including hemoglobin, kidney, liver enzymes, cholesterol
and more, with each health physical. Blood can be drawn on-site and
if completed in the morning, results will be back by evening.
For more information, call the Mt. Nebo Common office at
(412) 847-7580 or visit pghprimarycarecenter.org.
Summer 2010
At thee Innstitutee forr Paiin Diagnosticss and
d Carre, our
teaam wiilll develop
p a multidisciplinaryy treatmentt plan
to hellp you gett bacck to doingg thee activitiess thhatt you
enjo
oy.. And mostt impo
or tantly,, help
p reliievee yourr
debilittatiingg and
d chronicc pain.
Leed byy board
d certified
d painn treatmentt expertt
d A.. Provenzano,, M.D.,, thee IPDC
C bringss clinicall experieence
Davvid
d researchh knowledgee to
o everyy patientt treatmentt plan..
and
Some conditions we treat:
• Low back pain
• Neck pain
• Herniated discs
• Spinal stenosis
• Compression fractures
• Pain from cancer
• Muscle and joint pain
• Post-laminectomy pain syndrome
(continued pain after back surgery)
We’ree readyy to
o seee youu now.. Oncee youu enterr thee
ou’lll bee one
Institutee forr Painn Diagnosticss annd Carre,, yo
p closerr to
o enjoyingg yourr lifee thee waay itt used
d to
step
0 to
o schedulee an appointment.
be.. Calll 412-777-6400
Visit www.ifpdac.org
to learn more.
Free parking is available.
Now with two convenient locaons
Mt. Nebo Commons
107 Mt. Nebo Pointe Drive
Pisburgh, PA 15237
412-847-7550
www.guidetogoodhealth.com
Kenmawr Plaza
500 Pine Hollow Road
McKees Rocks, PA 15136
412-777-6400
GUIDE
TO
GOOD HEALTH 29
We Can! Pittsburgh
Helps Kids Get Healthy
CHILDREN’S HEALTH
C
When Heel Pain Hits the Kids
M
any adults suffer from heel pain, but the problem is not common
in children. When it does strike a young person, it is most often
caused by a phenomenon called Sever's disease. Sever's disease is
characterized by inflammation of the growth plate near the back of the heel
bone. This problem is also called calcaneal apophysitis, which refers to
inflammation of the growth plate.
A child's heel grows in a very interesting way. When children are still very
young, this area is mostly cartilage with a small amount of bone. Eventually,
two areas of bone grow and spread toward each other. By the time the child
is in his or her late teens, the two areas should fuse together to form the
healthy adult heel. When this area suffers some type of interference, such
as a trauma or damage from overuse, Sever's disease can be the result. There
may be some relation to exercising on hard surfaces.
Children who suffer from this problem have pain that strikes the side and
back of the heel, and sometimes the sole. It is usually most acute when the
child is active. Tightness in the calf muscle is common as well. Children
who suffer from Sever's disease generally get complete relief from the condition as the bone fills in the area occupied by cartilage. However, treatment
is recommended to help relieve pain. This may include heel raises that
cushion the foot, reducing the number or intensity of workouts, icing the
area, and sometimes orthotics. In extreme cases. casting may be necessary.
Foot and ankle pain should never be ignored, whether it occurs in a child
or an adult. Seek out a definitive diagnosis. Then, follow treatment recommendations to relieve pain and ensure healing.
>
For more information, contact Pittsburgh Family Foot Care, P.C.
at (724) 941-9440 or visit www.pffcpc.com.
Coming this Fall...Special focus on DIABETES
If you provide services to patients with diabetes, don’t be left out of our Fall Issue.
Call 412-835-5796 or e-mail [email protected] today!
The Early Learning Institute
Serving Children for Over 50 Years
• In-home and community-based early intervention programs
• Customized programs to meet the unique needs
of every child:
• Physical Therapy
• Occupational Therapy
• Speech/Language Therapy
• Educational services including
vision, hearing and nutrition
>
• Social workers available
Servicing all of Allegheny County • telipa.org • 412.922.8322
30 GUIDE
TO
GOOD HEALTH
hildhood obesity is a major
health issue in the United
States. Over the past 30 years,
obesity rates among children have
increased significantly to a point
where, according to the National
Institutes of Health (NIH), childhood
obesity has now become an epidemic.
To address this important issue, the
NIH developed We Can!® (Ways to
Enhance Children’s Activity &
Nutrition), a science-based national
education program to help children
ages 8 to 13 maintain a healthy
weight through improved nutrition,
increased physical activity, and
reduced screen (TV, computer) time.
We Can! is unique among existing
youth obesity-prevention initiatives
in its focus on reaching parents and
families as a primary group for influencing young people. This year, We Can! is celebrating “Five Years of
Progress” with various activities, including a video contest, We Can! displays
on buses and subway stations in select markets, various public service
announcements, and information on social media outlets.
We Can! Pittsburgh is a local movement that embraces the philosophy of
We Can! by developing programming to promote healthy eating and active
lifestyles for the youth of the region.
UPMC Health Plan spearheads the We Can! Pittsburgh initiative with
other participating Pittsburgh-area organizations: the Children’s Museum of
Pittsburgh, Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh of UPMC, Children’s
Community Pediatrics, the City of Pittsburgh, H.J. Heinz Company, and the
Jewish Community Center of Greater Pittsburgh (JCC). As a result of this
partnership, Pittsburgh was named a We Can! City, the fifth in the nation.
“UPMC Health Plan is committed to keeping families in western
Pennsylvania healthy and reducing the prevalence of childhood obesity,”
says Michael Culyba, M.D., Vice President of Medical Affairs at UPMC
Health Plan. “The We Can! Pittsburgh initiative is a great opportunity to create a community awareness of good nutrition, the value of increased physical activity, and decreased screen time.”
In the past two years, the Children’s Museum of Pittsburgh has presented
over 75 creative, family-friendly public programs to more than 8,000 program participants. It continues to offer regular We Can!-related activities and
has special events planned for this summer and fall. The JCC has offered two
sessions of the We Can! Energize Our Families program this year and continually seeks ways to incorporate the We Can! curriculum into its programming. It plans to run another program this fall. HEALTHY Armstrong,
a collaborative in Armstrong County, utilizes the We Can! curriculum in the
Armstrong School District. After-school programs at the various schools and
regular health-focused community events further support this philosophy.
To help increase awareness of the We Can! program, UPMC Health Plan
sponsored a two-day We Can! Regional Training event in April. At that
time, representatives from interested organizations had an opportunity to
learn more about We Can!, receive training from national experts from NIH,
and understand the program’s many turnkey, flexible resources available for
implementing programs in their location. More than 100 individuals registered for this event, representing six states nationwide.
Future plans for We Can! Pittsburgh include supporting partner organizations’ We Can!-related activities and events, working closely with We Can! on new program opportunities, exploring
Latino-focused programming,
and identifying other local
organizations that may fit well
with We Can! Pittsburgh.
For parent resources, healthy tips, and more helpful information
for your family or organization, visit the We Can! Pittsburgh
website at www.upmchealthplan.com/about/wecan.html.
www.guidetogoodhealth.com
Summer 2010
Even those younger than 6 months old should wear
sunscreen. It is recommended to test a small area of
your child’s skin with the product before fully applying it to the body.
Splash Into Summer Safety
By Dr. Kimberly Pezzone
SUMMER IS A GREAT TIME FOR FUN. KEEP YOUR
CHILD SAFE WITH THE FOLLOWING TIPS:
S
unscreen is one of the most important ways to keep your child safe in
the summer, although this does not replace appropriate attire, shading
and hats. Sunscreen should be applied to all children, including babies,
prior to outdoor sunlight exposure. Even those younger than 6 months old
should wear sunscreen. It is recommended to test a small area of your child’s
skin with the product before fully applying it to the body. Use a sunscreen
that protects from both UVA and UVB rays and that has at least SPF 15.
Regardless of SPF, all sunscreen should be reapplied every 2 hrs, or after
swimming or sweating. Take extra caution when your child
is in an environment with water, sand or concrete, as these
substances reflect additional sunrays and can contribute to
sunburn. Sunscreen should also be applied on cloudy days,
as sun rays can still penetrate the cloud cover and may lead
to sunburn. Call your pediatrician if your child sustains a
sunburn for additional advice on evaluation and treatment.
Pools are a great way to have fun and get exercise, but they
can also be dangerous. NEVER leave a child alone near a
pool, and ALWAYS be sure an adult is within arm’s reach of
a child in or near a pool. Be sure pools have fence and gate
with a lock surrounding the area. Floatation devices and life
vests do not substitute appropriate child supervision. Be
sure rescue devices and portable phones are near the pool in
case of emergency. If an unsupervised child falls into a swimming pool, call 911 IMMEDIATELY.
Helmets should be worn each time your child rides a bicycle, scooter, or
inline skates. Accidents can happen at any time,
anywhere, so enforce helmets even in your own driveway. Children of all ages should always wear a
helmet that fits well, and the straps/clasps should
always be secured. Beginning healthy, safe habits
when your child is young will continue into safe
practices as they grow.
>
Dr. Kimberly Pezzone is with Pediatric
Alliance, St. Clair Division.
For more information, call (412) 221-2121
or visit www.pediatricalliance.com.
Dr. Kimberly Pezzone
Exceptional care for your children, confidence and convenience for you.
Pediatric Alliance, P.C.
Providing Pediatric and Adolescent Medicine
Pediatric Alliance is proud to be the largest physician owned pediatric practice in
our area. We offer quality, personalized, patient-centered care at 12 different
locations. Pediatric Alliance strives to provide innovative services to our community and takes a progressive approach to meet the needs of busy families.
Visit our website for accurate health information and more about our practice:
w w w. p e d i a t r i c a l l i a n c e . c o m
LOCATIONS:
North:
Arcadia Division: 412-366-7337
Fox Chapel Division: 412-767-0707
North Hills Division: 412-364-5834
Cranberry Office: 724-776-4344
Northland Division: 412-366-5550
Cranberry Office: 724-776-6030
Summer 2010
South:
Chartiers Division: 412-221-0160
McMurray Office: 724-941-2747
Greentree Division: 412-922-5250
St. Clair Division: 412-221-2121
Specialty Divisions:
Division of Pediatric Endocrinology:
412-371-3000
Division of Allergy, Asthma, and
Immunology: 412-348-6868
www.guidetogoodhealth.com
We Care
A b o u t Yo u r
Kids!
GUIDE
TO
GOOD HEALTH 31
CHILDREN WITH SPECIAL NEEDS
Child’s Way® Encourages Families to A.C.T.
Early
Intervention
Service Coordination for Allegheny County
Do you have a child
between the ages of
birth
&three?
Are you concerned about
their development?
The Alliance for Infants
and Toddlers can help.
We Can:
• Complete an assessment of your child’s skills
• Coordinate appropriate services or supports
• Monitor your child’s developmental progress
Services Are:
• Provided in the home or other community settings
• Offered at no cost to the family
Call 412-885-6000
www.afit.org
read to them for 20 minutes
each day. At Child’s Way, children participate in circle time
each morning with trained
child care associates, where
they sing, read stories, and
create craft projects while
pediatric registered nurses
take care of their medical
needs.
T
hroughout the region, many
families are helping their medically fragile children thrive and
grow in a variety of environments. At
Child’s Way®, The Children’s Home of
Pittsburgh & Lemieux Family Center’s
day care for medically fragile children,
families are aided in the care of their
children and are encouraged to A.C.T.
(advocate, care, and teach) to further
enrich their children’s lives.
TEACH. The strongest networks families with medically
fragile children can have are
with each other. Families are
encouraged to talk with each
other to help minimize stress
While at Child’s Way®, The Children’s and lessen the feelings of
Home’s day care for medically fragile being alone in raising a spechildren, Gabe, 7, is able to receive the cial needs child while at
medical care he needs from registered Child’s Way. Families should
nurses like Lynn Wray, as well as the also get involved with comopportunity to socialize and receive ther- munity education by participating in awareness events
apies in an educational environment.
and by talking to others in
the community about the needs of their children.
As Child’s Way continues to offer support to families
in
the Pittsburgh area, The Children’s Home hopes that
CARE. Although medically fragile children require
more care than typically developing children, this care families throughout the entire region will continue to
encourages families to go above and beyond for their A.C.T. for their children.
children. Families should take time to ensure that their
For more information about The Children’s
children are given the same educational foundation as
Home, visit www.childrenshomepgh.org
typically developing children. Families are encouraged
or call (412) 441-4884.
to talk about colors and letters with their children and
ADVOCATE. Parents should advocate for their medically fragile children.
This can be done by obtaining physician prescribed therapies to ensure
consistent physical and occupational
therapy and audiology consultation for
their children. At Child’s Way, children
receive therapies through collaboration
with Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh
of UPMC. Parents can also track their
children’s development closely by
accessing community services that provide evaluations, such as the Alliance
for Infants & Toddlers.
>
PUBLISHER
Nancy Lammie
DESIGN & LAYOUT
JMC Graphics
[email protected]
(412) 835-5796
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Laurie Bailey, Lisa Bianco,
Daniel Casciato, Ron Cichowicz,
Vanessa Orr, Nancy Kennedy,
Ron Paglia, Lois Thomson
ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE
Amy Bailey, Mary Etta Nader
Lynette Tomasetti
MARKETING/CIRCULATION
David Lammie
_________________
Don’t Be Left out of our Fall Issue:
HOW TO REACH US:
[email protected]
PHONE: 412-835-5796
2574 Oldfield Ave, Pittsburgh, PA 15102
E-mail your Editorial Submissions to
[email protected]
The Guide To Good Health is published quarterly (4
issues per year) by JMC Publications. The contents of
this publication may not be reproduced in whole or in
part. All rights reserved.
VISIT US ONLINE AT
www.guidetogoodhealth.com
32 GUIDE
TO
GOOD HEALTH
Positive Behavior Support
A
ll parents have experienced it! Your child’s
behavior is inappropriate and you are at your
wit’s end. Every child has his or her moments,
but what can you do if it goes beyond the occasional
incidents and your child’s claim to fame becomes bad
behavior?
Developmental Specialists in the Early Intervention
Program at accessAbilities are now able to help families
address challenging behaviors that may keep their child
from achieving his or her full potential. The agency’s
early childhood education teachers are trained in TBASE, which is short for Technique-Based Applications
for System Effectiveness, a professional development
program designed to help address the most challenging
behavior situations.
The program used techniques grounded in the field
of applied behavior analysis to design, implement, and
evaluate behavior interventions. The process includes
evaluating the child’s environment to consider and
understand the circumstances when the behavior
occurs, and determining what existing
resources in that environment can be
used as part of the new behavior plan.
The specialists meet with the family to help them decide what new positive behavior could be introduced to
replace the unwanted behavior, while
still helping the child to meet his or
her need. As a team, keeping the fam-
www.guidetogoodhealth.com
ily’s priorities and daily routines in mind, proactive
steps are planned to make it easier for the child to use
a new strategy to get what they want. The child needs
time to learn this new technique, so the developmental
specialist also helps the parents and other individuals
who are involved plan what they will do if the unwanted behavior occurs, as well as how to reinforce the new
behaviors.
Throughout the process, the Early Intervention staff
from accessAbilities will help the family to review the
results and tailor the plan as needed to assist the family in addressing those unwanted behaviors. Ultimately,
the program can help families teach their child more
productive and acceptable ways of having their needs
met, and eliminate those unwanted behaviors that
might prevent their child from achieving childhood
milestones.
For more information, contact
accessAbilities, Inc. at (724) 832-8272
or visit www.accessAbilities.org.
>
EDITORIAL MANAGER
Judy Gramm
Summer 2010
Concerned about Your
Child’s Development?
The Watson Institute
Can Help
The Watson Institute
Psychological Services Department
Diagnostic Evaluations
By Joseph R. McAllister, Ph.D.
T
he Watson Institute provides comprehensive developmental evaluations when the family or doctor has
questions about a child’s developmental
progress, whether the questions concern
autism, generalized delays, or learning
issues. We can generally schedule initial
appointments within 2 weeks and provide
detailed written reports within 2 weeks of
the evaluation. Our staff includes psychiatrists, developmental psychologists and
neuropsychologists. We have good working relationships with early intervention
providers in the area and can direct families to appropriate services if needed.
The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that all children be
screened for autism spectrum disorders twice by the age of 2, even if they
have no symptoms. As part of a well-child visit, your child’s doctor should
conduct a developmental screening asking specific questions about your
child’s progress.
Wraparound
Social Skills Group Therapy
Individual Therapy
Summer Camps
Medication Management
Learn more about our school programs, services and
resources for special needs students, their parents
and special education professionals on our website:
www.thewatsoninstitute.org
412-741-1800
866-893-4751 (toll free)
BEHAVIORS THAT SIGNAL THE NEED FOR
FURTHER EVALUATION INCLUDE:
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Does not babble or coo by 12 months
Does not gesture (point, wave, grasp) by 12 months
Does not respond to name being called
Does not smile at others
Does not say single words by 16 months
Does not say two word phrases on his or her own by 24 months
Has any loss of language of social skills at any age
Having any of these behaviors does not mean a
child has autism, only that parents should consider an
evaluation.
Insurance will often cover the costs of the evaluation.
>
To make a referral or get additional information,
contact our intake coordinator at
(412) 749-2889 or toll free at 1-866-8934751 ext. 2889 or visit our website at
www.thewatsoninstitute.org. Dr. Joseph R. McAllister is
Director of Psychological Services, The Watson
Dr. Joseph R. McAllister
Institute.
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:KLOHSDUHQWVDUHDWZRUNVFKRRORUWDNLQJFDUHRIDKRXVHKROG
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I kept my hands to myself
and got all my work done!
Pace School Programs teach children
with emotional disorders and
autism to break through social
and emotional barriers to
school success.
6WDIIHGE\SHGLDWLFUHJLVWHUHGQXUVHVDQGWUDLQHGFKLOGFDUH
DVVRFLDWHV&KLOG·V:D\SURYLGHVDQDOWHUQDWLYHWRLQKRPHQXUVLQJ
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RIRQJRLQJPHGLFDOQHHGV&KLOG·V:D\PD\EHWKHDQVZHU
Locations:
116 Browns Hill Rd.
Valencia, PA 16059
724-903-0083
Summer 2010
2432 Greensburg Pike
Pittsburgh, PA 15221
412-244-1900
www.guidetogoodhealth.com
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GUIDE
TO
GOOD HEALTH 33
CHILDREN WITH SPECIAL NEEDS
Baby
Steps
W
hen Luke was born at 28
weeks without a heartbeat and not breathing,
his mother Amy was terrified. She
had no complications during pregnancy but a placental abruption
would change everything. Doctors
were able to resuscitate Luke quickly and he was whisked away to the
Neonatal Intensive Care Unit
(NICU) where he would spend the
next 69 days. He was placed on a
ventilator, diagnosed with chronic
lung disease, jaundice, anemia, and
would need blood transfusions and
IV nutrient treatments. After his
stay in the NICU, Luke was moved
to a transitional care unit for the
next 14 days since he was not yet
ready to return home.
When Luke finally came home
after nearly three months, he was a
pretty sick baby. Luke was on an AB
monitor for his heart, oxygen 24
hours a day, given breathing treatments twice a day and was on
Resource Directory
ACCESSABILITIES, INC.
It’s about possibilities, not disabilities.
724-832-8272
www.accessAbilities.org
ALLIANCE FOR INFANTS
AND TODDLERS
412-885-6000
www.afit.org
CHILDREN WITH
SPECIAL NEEDS
THE EARLY LEARNING INSTITUTE
412-922-8322 • telipa.org
THE WATSON INSTITUTE
CENTER FOR CHILDREN’S
REHABILITATION
Monongahela Valley Hospital
724-258-2971
412-741-1800 • 866-893-4751
www.thewatsoninstitute.org
WESTERN PENNSYLVANIA
SCHOOL FOR THE BLIND
412- 621-0100 • www.wpsbc.org
DEPAUL SCHOOL FOR
HEARING & SPEECH
412-924-1012
www.speakmiracles.org
JUSTIN HARTMAN EDUCATION
ADVOCACY, INC.,
WESTERN PENNSYLVANIA
SCHOOL FOR THE DEAF
412-371-7000 • www.wpsd.org
WOODLANDS FOUNDATION
724-935-5470 • www.woodlandsfoundation.org
412-779-1701
www.jheap.com
diuretics since he had fluid retention in his lungs. Because of all of
his medical equipment, Amy turned
the family’s dining room into Luke’s
bedroom and the couch into her
bed. Since he did spend the first
three months of his life in the hospital, Luke didn’t move much. His
mother noticed he wasn’t doing
what other babies his age were
doing like rolling over or moving
his head around. This is when Kay,
a physical therapist with The Early
Learning Institute (TELI), was
introduced to Luke.
Kay began doing physical therapy
with Luke and working on small
movements. At first, they would
stop therapy after only five minutes
since Luke’s breathing would
become labored. “She’d (Kay) take
a break at these points and kind of
talk to us a little bit and reassure us
that it was okay and we were going
to move on from this,” said Amy.
Then, step by step, the transformation really started happening. Little
by little, he started doing more
movements, turning his head side
to side, rolling over, doing tummy
time, and then, the progression of
sitting, crawling and walking.
Today, Luke is climbing and becoming more stable.
Amy said she would absolutely
recommend TELI because “the staff
is very supportive, well educated,
and they know what they are
doing.” When asked about what
advice she would give other parents
in similar situations, she said, “It is
an absolute roller coaster ride. They
tell you that from day one in the
hospital…that you are going to have
a lot of ups and downs. I would
suggest getting to know your doctors and nurses and the support
staff that you have. Ask a ton of
questions. That’s what they are
there for … to help you.”
Now 18 months and weighing
over 25 pounds, Luke is no longer
on oxygen and is enjoying all of the
things toddlers his age enjoy. In
fact, he has been discharged from
physical therapy completely. Luke
is enrolled in TELI’s Baby Butterflies
socialization program, which Amy
says, “has been great. He is interacting with other kids his age now,
starting to learn how to play and
getting used to other people.”
Kay says she will miss Luke and
his family very much. “Amy and I
hugged and shed a few tears. We
promised to keep in touch via
PACE SCHOOL
412-244-1900
www.paceschool.org
Parents of Children With Special Needs…
Go to www.guidetogoodhealth.com
for more stories, information just for you!
34 GUIDE
TO
GOOD HEALTH
At The Early Learning Institute
(TELI), we know how challenging
life can be for parents of children
with special needs or developmental delays.You want to make
the best decisions possible to
ensure your child is given every
opportunity to succeed.And,
though the road isn’t always an
easy one, there are some suggestions we have to make your journey a little smoother.
• Be Informed – Read as
much as possible on your child’s
specific diagnosis and speak to
professionals who work with that
population. Having knowledge not
only helps you to make the best
decisions for your child, but also
gives you piece of mind.
• Network with Other
Parents – Build a support network.Talking to other parents
who are going through the same
experience will help you to cope.
Other parents may even be able
to offer creative ideas or alternative therapies that are helping
their child.
• Connect to the Right
Services – Choose providers
with whom both you and your
child feel comfortable.Your child
will progress even further when
they feel safe and at ease with
service providers.
• Get Involved – Become an
advocate for your child.This is
probably the most important role
you can play.Talk to others about
your child and what they can do
to support your family. Stay
involved in local organizations
working on behalf of the cause
and keep government officials
informed.
Butterflies.”
Luke can teach us all one of life’s
greatest lessons: sometimes, it’s
learning to take baby steps.
>
For more information The
Early Learning Institute’s
early intervention programs,
visit www.telipa.org or call
(412) 922-8322.
Please join us for the 2010 Preemie Conference
Saturday, August 14, 2010
at the Western PA School for Blind Children
THE CHILDREN’S HOME &
LEMIEUX FAMILY CENTER
412-441-4884
www.childrenshomepgh.org
Good Advice for
Parents of Children
with Special Needs
www.guidetogoodhealth.com
Plus, over 18 breakout sessions.
Approximately 8 CEUs are available for the day.
To register: www.PARENTRESOURCENETWORK.org
or call with questions 877-647-4373.
Summer 2010
LIVING WITH A DISABILITY
Benefits of Exercise in Parkinson’s Patients:
Maintaining Safety, Function, and Quality of Life
By Tyson Swigart
P
arkinson’s disease is a progressive neuromuscular disease that
affects over a million
people in the United
States. Those affected
with the disease tend
to present with symptoms of bradykinesia (slowing of voluntary movement), resting tremor,
rigidity during movement, poor balance, dysfunctional gait, and cognitive decline.
These symptoms result from
decreased production of the neurotransmitter dopamine in the basal
ganglia. Although no cure has been
found for Parkinson’s disease, a myriad of research has been published
regarding treatments used to slow
the progression of this chronic disease.
While pharmacological treatments
merely treat the symptoms of
Parkinson’s disease, exercise programs have been shown to slow the
progression of the disease as well as
improve symptoms. Interestingly,
those who workout regularly early in
life seem to develop a “neuroprotective” quality that prevents their
brains from being affected by
Parkinson’s later on.
Because patients with Parkinson’s
disease, as well as other neurodegenerative diseases, tend to have difficulty with balance and walking, they
are at an increased risk for falls.
Patients generally walk with a
“Parkinsonian gait” which is characterized by a forward flexed posture,
lack of arm swing, and small, shuffling steps. The patient may also
have difficulty starting to walk and
changing directions. They will
Summer 2010
appear as though they are
about to fall forward during “normal” gait. In
order to address these
problems that are obviously a safety concern,
exercise programs focusing on trunk strength and
postural control are critically
important.
Incorporating these components into an exercise program
will allow the Parkinson’s patients to
normalize their gait pattern for a
longer period of time. With a normalized gait pattern as well as
increased trunk control, patients are
not as likely to fall.
In addition to decreasing the risk
of falls, exercise has also been shown
to improve cognition in patients
with Parkinson’s disease. Research
has shown that Parkinson’s patients
who participate in an exercise program twice weekly over the course of
twelve weeks exhibit improvements
in frontal lobe based executive function activities including organization, problem solving, and memory.
With the maintenance of executive
function, Parkinson’s patients can
continue to excel in their careers
despite the presence of pathology in
their central nervous system.
By being proactive about preventing falls and maintaining brain function Parkinson’s patients allow themselves to stay active without sacrificing quality of life. Before starting an
exercise program, it is important that
patients consult with their physician
regarding exercise response and tolerance. Patients with Parkinson’s disease should also consider a supervised training program as an option.
In a research study published this
year, exercise programs under the
supervision of a physiotherapist
were found to be more effective at
improving activities of daily living,
motor, mental, emotional functions
and general health quality in patients
with Parkinson's disease compared
with a self-supervised home exercise
program. A qualified exercise physiologist or other fitness professional
can design a dynamic exercise program that is critical for combating
the progression of Parkinson’s disease. There is increasing support for
engagement in activities that are
both physically and mentally challenging. The martial arts, for example, incorporate strategy with physical activity. That being said,
Parkinson’s patients appear to benefiting greatly from utilizing movement-based treatments and should
do in order to maintain safety, function, and quality of life throughout
the lifespan.
Dr. Tyson Swigart is founder
and owner of Southpointe
Chiropractic and Fitness.
To make an appointment or
for more information, you can reach
Dr. Swigart at (724) 873-0700.
>
www.guidetogoodhealth.com
"ONAR!VENUEs7AYNESBURG0!
4ELEPHONE
GUIDE
TO
GOOD HEALTH 35
SENIOR CARE
TWO CAMPUSES, ONE MISSION...
How to Give a Bed Bath
By Bryna Smith, R.N.
A
Our comprehensive service package lets you tailor your lifestyle according to
your wants and needs, encouraging vitality and independence. Access to our
continuums of care gives you the freedom to make decisions for healthcare
on your terms, now or in the future.
We’re always here for you -
today and tomorrow.
Independent Living
On-site Medical Clinic
Rehabilitation Services
Assisted Living Services
Memory Support
Skilled Nursing
Wellness Programs
complete bed bath
not only cleanses
the skin, it stimulates circulation, provides
mild exercise, and promotes comfort. Take this
opportunity to observe the
skin for abnormalities.
Encourage the senior to
assist with bathing to promote independence. Offer
the bedpan or urinal prior
to bathing. Move the body
joints through a full range
of motion during the bath.
Provide warmth and privacy by covering
STEPS FOR FOLDING
the senior with a bath sheet. Avoid unnecA WASH CLOTH
essary exposure. Place an absorbent pad
INTO A MITT
beneath the incontinent senior. Use a mitt,
1. Fold washcloth into
it retains water and heat longer than a
thirds.
loose washcloth.
2. Place your hand halfway
Fill bath basin two-thirds full of warm
into open end, palm up
water. Avoid scalding or chilling by testing
3. Fold cloth downward
the water temperature with your elbow.
toward palm, tucking in
Place lotion bottle in basin to warm; cold
loose ends.
lotion may startle the senior and induce
muscle tension. Use gentle strokes when
HOW TO MAKE A
bathing, always moving toward the heart
SHAMPOO TROUGH
(wrist to shoulder and ankle to hip) to
1. Roll a towel into a log.
stimulate venous circulation. Place a towel
2. Shape the log into a “u”
under each body part when washing and
and place in a large plastic
rinsing. Immediately rinse and dry each
bag.
area thoroughly, especially skin-fold areas,
3.Arrange the bag under
to avoid itching and irritation. Apply
the head with the end of
lotion. Wear gloves.
the bag extending over the
Begin the bath with the face, working
edge of the bed and into
downward and ending with the private
the bucket on the floor,
areas. Gently wipe each eye with a separate
with the head resting inside
section of the mitt without soap, working
the trough made by the
from the inner eye to the outer eye. Put
arms of the “U”
soap on the wash cloth and wash the rest
of the face. Bathe the chest and armpits
with firm strokes to avoid tickling before moving to the arms. Soak each
hand in a basin to remove dirt and soften nails. The abdomen and groin are
next, followed by the legs. Do not use vigorous strokes or massage the legs,
as this may dislodge existing blood clots. After washing each leg, place the
basin on bed, flex the leg at the knee, and place the foot in the basin to soak.
Clean toenails. Do not soak the hands or feet of a diabetic senior. Change
the bath water. Roll senior onto his side to wash back and buttocks. Bathe
the anal area from front to back, replace washcloth, and change bath water
again to avoid contamination. Turn senior onto back and wash genital area
gently from front to back, using a different part of the mitt for each downward stroke, avoiding the anal area.
Eldercare 101:
For information about upcoming events, call or visit us online.
Enhancing Quality of Life Through
Effective Caregiving that Nurtures the
Mind, Body & Spirit
Pittsburgh’s first choice in retirement living
489 Castle Shannon Blvd - Mt. Lebanon, PA 15234
412.563.6550 - www.BaptistHomes.org
500 Providence Point Blvd - Scott Township, PA 15243
412.489.3550 - www.ProvidencePoint.org
Baptist Homes Society has provided for your residential and healthcare needs since 1910
with our Baptist Homes campus in Mt. Lebanon. We are now proud to introduce a new,
enhanced lifestyle option for seniors at our second community, Providence Point.
36 GUIDE
TO
GOOD HEALTH
>
To reach Bryna Smith, Owner, May I Help
You, Inc., call (412) 853-0125.
www.guidetogoodhealth.com
Summer 2010
Alzheimer’s Care
Alzheimer’s Care Needs
Increasing Exponentially
Across the Nation
T
here are now more than five million people in the United States living with
Alzheimer’s disease, which is a 10 percent
increase from the previous nationwide estimate.
For many families, Alzheimer’s care begins and
ends at home. Medical research indicates the
stress associated with caregiving can lead to a
weakened immune system and in some cases
take years off the caregiver’s life. Those risks
increase when they manage caregiving responsibilities while working or raising a family.
“Caregiving for a loved one with Alzheimer’s
is a huge responsibility,” said Tom Donohue,
owner of the Comfort Keepers franchise in
Pittsburgh. “There is a risk of emotional burnout and a decline in health for
family caregivers who do not make it a point to take much needed breaks.”
DONOHUE SHARED THE FOLLOWING TIPS
FOR FINDING IN-HOME CARE SUPPORT.
1. Identify Job Details – Identify the specific functions you expect the
help to perform to eliminate confusion. Details such as dressing the client,
bathing, and eating need to be addressed.
2. What Kind of Person Should You Look For? – Qualifications you may
require are: a bonded and insured worker, licensed driver and experienced
in handling clients with Alzheimer’s disease.
3. Some questions you should considering asking
• What did your duties consist of?
• What was your daily schedule?
Helpline Available
for You 24/7
The Alzheimer’s Association 24/7
Helpline provides reliable information
and support to people with memory
loss, caregivers, health care professionals and the general public. Just call the Helpline tollfree anytime day or night at 1-800-272-3900.
Confidential care consultation provided by highly
trained and knowledgeable master’s-level clinicians offer
assistance with:
• Understanding memory loss, dementia and Alzheimer’s
• Medications and other treatment options
•General information about aging and brain health
• Skills to provide quality care and to find the best professional care
options
• Legal, financial and living-arrangement decisions
• Referrals to local community programs, services and ongoing support
The Helpline offers help in a caller’s preferred language from among
more than 140 languages and dialects. Its services also are provided to
the online community at www.alz.org through message boards and chat
rooms, which care consultants monitor daily.
Helpline staff does not perform diagnosis. If you or someone you care
for is having memory problems, please see your doctor.
1-800-272-3900
HELP FOR FAMILIES
Many Alzheimer’s patients can safely stay in their own home for a period
of time, and that’s where organizations like Comfort Keepers can provide inhome care assistance. “Our caregivers have been trained in how to provide
in-home care for Alzheimer’s disease clients. This training includes assisting
the client with dressing or grooming, improving eating habits and how to
enhance home safety to prevent wandering or driving,” added Donohue.
>
For more information, contact Comfort Keepers at (412) 653-6100.
Sign Up Today for the Alzheimer’s
Association Memory Walk®
The Alzheimer’s Association is inviting the Washington and Greene County Area
residents to become Champions in the fight against Alzheimer’s by participating in
the annual Alzheimer’s Association Memory Walk®. Peterswood Park will be the site
of the Memory Walk on Saturday, September 25 at 8:00 a.m. In addition to the
short walk, participants will enjoy food, beverage, music, raffles, and door prizes. For
more information, call 412-261-5040.
/URMULTIMILLIONDOLLAR
STATEOFTHEART HEALTHCARE FACILITY
%VERY DAY WE PROVIDE HEALTHCARE TO MORE FAMILIES IN THEIR HOMES THAN
JUST ABOUT ANYONE 7HETHER YOURE RECOVERING FROM SURGERY DISABLED
OR JUST NEED A LITTLE HELP TO MAINTAIN YOUR INDEPENDENCE OUR TRAINED
EXPERIENCED CAREGIVERS WILL COME TO YOUR HOUSE AND TAKE CARE OF YOU
/N A PARTTIME FULLTIME OR LIVEIN BASIS 7ERE )NTERIM (EALTH#ARE¤
ANDWEPROVIDEHEALTHCAREFORTHEPEOPLEYOULOVE'IVEUSACALL
Summer 2010
www.guidetogoodhealth.com
WWWINTERIMHEALTHCARECOM
GUIDE
TO
GOOD HEALTH 37
Older adults can age safely
in their own homes with our help.
Call now:
1-877-9-LIFE-NOW
A Better Way, A Better Life
PART 2:
Checklist for Loved Ones
By Brenda Metal
A REVIEW OF YOUR PARENTS FINANCES
Are the taxes paid? Are the utilities paid? Are their accounts up to date
and accurate? Are there investments or accounts that need regular maintenance or decision making?
Is this a good time to discuss protecting your parent’s assets? Do they
have pre-paid burial arrangements or life insurance policies?
Do they have a will? Do they have a safety deposit box? Do they have a
fire proof box for important documents or at least a specific place where
records are kept? How are their records organized? Where are their ID cards
and insurance cards?
A REVIEW OF YOUR PARENT’S HEALTHCARE
DECISION MAKING CHOICES
Do they have a living will? Do they have a formal power of attorney?
Does it cover both medical and financial? Have they named a surrogate
decision maker? What hospital do they prefer?
www.lifepittsburgh.org
A REVIEW OF YOUR PARENT’S SUPPORT STRUCTURE
Who can your aging parent depend on for help? Is there a close neighbor, relative or friend that they can call in case of an emergency? Do they
have an emergency response device (i.e. Lifeline)? Do they have someone
to clean snow off of sidewalks, cut grass, bring in groceries in inclement
weather? Do they receive meals on wheels? Do they have a church group
or senior center that they are active in and is there a contact person? Do you
have a list of these people so that you can contact them if needed?
Making a " Checklist for Loved Ones” will allow you to identify your
aging parent’s needs, familiarize yourself with their situation and make suggestions to help them maintain their independence. Making the checklist
may reveal changes in mental status and their ability to organize and accurately remember. Once you’ve started the list you can easily update it when
you visit and in some cases over the phone. Starting the “Checklist For
Loved Ones” creates a baseline for the adult child and a way to measure
changes from visit to visit.
Remember that when you’re making the list you should do so in a way
that respects your aging parent’s dignity and need for autonomy. It is important to discuss the current situation and make suggestions that involve collaboration rather than the child simply assuming control. Keep in mind
that it is often difficult to accept help and that it should be presented as a
way to remain safe and independent. When reviewing your aging parent’s
situation remember that there are in home services that can assist with
everyday chores, physician visits, etc. A service like this is an extension of
your aging parent’s family and involves caregivers who often become
friends.
>
Brenda Metal is CEO of Caring Companions.
For more information, call Caring Companions at
(724) 337-7581 or visit www.stayathomecare.net
BRANDON KOENIG
__________________________
HOME MAINTENANCE & HANDYMAN SERVICE
__________________________
When you need to find a reliable and trustworthy
handyman, call Brandon at (412) 527-1166
RESIDENTIAL
38 GUIDE
TO
GOOD HEALTH
www.guidetogoodhealth.com
OR
COMMERCIAL
Summer 2010
Family Hospice and Palliative Care
Invaluable Gifts of Service
By Rafael J. Sciullo, MA, LCSW, MS
S
ervice takes on many forms. From those who bravely serve our country in the armed forces, to measuring the way customers are treated in
a restaurant or retail setting. In the hospice industry, service speaks to
the dedication, hard work and compassion with which we devote ourselves
to patients and families.
At Family Hospice and Palliative Care, we have an extraordinary group of
people that serve alongside our employees. Our corps of 400 volunteers
keep our organization running smoothly and help the patients and families
we serve experience a real quality of life. Volunteer duties include office
administrative support, bereavement support, staffing our fundraising
events – and perhaps most importantly, offering patient and family companionship.
Some of our volunteers are teens, like the ones who offered their time
during our first ever Memorial River Walk, last fall. Still others are actively
engaged in life-enrichment activities, such as helping to facilitate our
monthly community bereavement support groups, which are free to the
public.
Our volunteers perform a range of valuable services – always with a smile
and a giving heart.
Those smiles were aplenty recently when Family Hospice and Palliative
Care held our annual Volunteer Recognition Luncheon at The Center for
Compassionate Care.
The guest speaker was KDKA-TV news anchor Jennifer Antkowiak,
whose presentation focused on care giving. Relating her own experience
helping take care of her father-in-law and mother-in-law, Antkowiak’s message was particularly useful to our volunteers. Many of them help care for
our patients – and many others joined our volunteer force because of a
patient experience in their own family. Antkowiak reminded our volunteers
KDKA-TV’s Jennifer Antkowiak and Nick Petti, Family Hospice manager of
Volunteer Services, congratulate 30-year volunteers Vera Beck (second from
left) and Carol Vockel (far right).
to take care of themselves as well – talking about how physically and emotionally overwhelming the duties of a care giver can become.
Despite our huge advancements in medicine and technology, Western
Pennsylvania is still very much an area that respects an old-fashioned work
ethic. Hospice volunteers exemplify that spirit as well as anyone, because
they have answered the call to truly give of themselves for completely selfless reasons. Saying “thank you” barely seems adequate. The services they provide are invaluable gifts
from the heart.
>
Rafael J. Sciullo, MA, LCSW, MS, is President
and CEO of Family Hospice and Palliative
Care and Past Chairperson of the National
Hospice and Palliative Care Organization. He may be
reached at [email protected] or
(412) 572-8800 or visit www.familyhospice.com.
The region’s
most trusted
source for
care in
I NEED
D HELP
P TAKING
G CARE
E OF
F MOM!
What Services Does SeniorLIFE Provide?
the home.
SeniorLIFE Services Can Include:
*Physician Services
*Nursing
*Therapies
*Transportation
*Home Care Services
*Medication Monitoring
*Meals & Nutritional Counseling
*Social Services & Counseling
*Non­Emergency services must be approved by SeniorLIFE.
To qualify, you must be 60 years of age or older and live
in an area served by SeniorLIFE.
Call today to determine if you are financially eligible to receive
services at no cost, are medically eligible and determine if you are
able to be safely served in the place that you call home.
SeniorLIFE
Summer 2010
1­877­998­LIFE
“Complete Care For Seniors Living At Home”
Liken Home Care’s goal is to provide superior service while
enhancing the independence, comfort, and dignity of our
clients. Our Companions, Aides, LPNs, and RNs have been helping
individuals at home for over 30 years in Western Pennsylvania with:
bathing, personal care, overnight care, mobility, meals, light housekeeping, medication, and more.
Call for a free assessment and more information,
or visit our Web site:
412-816-0113
www.guidetogoodhealth.com
www.likenservices.com
GUIDE
TO
GOOD HEALTH 39
Senior
Living
Options
Your family member deserves the best, so don’t compromise
when life’s demands or care needs change.
Have peace of mind knowing your family member is in the experienced hands of Presbyterian SeniorCare, providing
award-winning care and services for more than 80 years. For care and services as unique as your loved one.
Join us for an
Open House and
light refreshments
at either campus.
WEDNESDAY
SEPT. 15
3pm -5pm
40 GUIDE
TO
GOOD HEALTH
www.SrCare.org
Southminster Place
Washington Campus
880 S. Main Street
Washington, PA 15301
1-888-448-5779
www.guidetogoodhealth.com
Westminster Place
Oakmont Campus
1215 Hulton Road
Oakmont, PA 15139
1-866-797-6326
Summer 2010
Playing Safe This Summer:
Top Six Senior Hazards
By Sue Janosko
S
ummer offers an endless selection of activities both indoors and out,
but beware of increased health risks associated with this time of year.
Seniors are especially vulnerable to the challenges warmer weather
brings.
1. DEHYDRATION: Drink eight or more 8-ounce glasses of water or fruit
juices every day to keep the body hydrated. Avoid or limit caffeinated and
alcoholic beverages. Wear loose-fitting, natural-fabric clothes in lighter colors that will reflect the sun and heat better than darker colors.
2. HEAT STROKE: Avoid dehydration. Wear hats outdoors. Stay in the
shade. Remain indoors on extremely hot days. If you do not have air-conditioning, go somewhere that does. Visit a senior center, mall, restaurant, or
movie theater. If you can’t leave home, use fans, and take cool showers or
baths. Know the signs of heat stroke. Take immediate action if they occur.
• Flushed face and elevated body temperature
• Rapid breathing and pulse
• Headache and nausea
• Lack of perspiration
• Dizziness and confusion
3. EYE DAMAGE: Sunglasses are a must protection for outdoor wear all
year round but even more so in the bright summer sunshine especially
around pools or water where light is more reflective. Sunglasses should be
100% UV protective otherwise they may actually let in more light as the
pupils enlarge to compensate for the darkness.
4. FOOD POISONING: Barbecues and outdoor picnics can be enjoyed
without food-poisoning outbreaks if we follow simple guidelines of food
safety and food handling. Wash your hands frequently when preparing,
serving or eating food. Keep raw meats away from any serving surface. Plan
your meal-times. Don’t allow food to set out all day. Keep cold foods cold
and hot foods hot.
5. BUG BITES: Pesky insects can cause more than annoying itching.
Serious infectious diseases such as West Nile Virus or Lime disease can be
prevented by avoiding typically infested areas; covering exposed skin when
in a buggy location; and using appropriate bug repellents.
6. SKIN CANCER: Avoid direct sun when possible. During the hottest
hours of the day, cover up or find shade and always wear an FDA approved
sunscreen. Read the labels. Watch the SPF rating and be sure the sunscreen
you choose blocks both UVB and UVA rays. Inspect your skin routinely for
changes in texture, color, or size of moles. If caught early, skin cancer is usually the easiest cured form of cancer.
Oliver Wendell Holmes once said, “We do not stop playing because we
grow old; we grow old because we stop playing.” Enjoy the summer
months!
>
For more Senior Tips, contact Liken Home Care at (412) 816-0113
or visit our website www.likenservices.com. Sue Janosko is
Director of Operations for Liken Home Care.
> For more Senior Resources and Health News You Can Use, go to www.guidetogoodhealth.com
Summer 2010
www.guidetogoodhealth.com
GUIDE
TO
GOOD HEALTH 41
SENIOR LIVING OPTIONS
WHEN YOU NEED A VACATION...
L
A
ET US HELP YOU PLAN A RESPITE
STAY FOR YOUR LOVED ONE !
s a caregiver, you work hard every day to care for and
nurture your loved one. However, sometimes you need a break,
whether its a vacation or some much needed time for yourself.
Let Five Star Senior Living help you plan a short-term respite
stay for your loved one.
Five Star Senior Living communities offer:
• Flexible respite stays available from five days to several weeks
• Supportive, caring help with daily needs
• Spacious, private accommodations
• Restaurant-style dining
• Engaging social & recreational activities
• On-site physical, occupational & speech therapy
WE LOOK FORWARD TO CARING FOR YOUR LOVED ONE!
C ALL
TODAY TO SCHEDULE YOUR
COMPLIMENTARY LUNCH AND VISIT.
Mount Vernon of Elizabeth
Franciscan Manor
145 Broadlawn Dr • Elizabeth
71 Darlington Rd • Beaver Falls
412-751-0430
724-891-1150
• Assisted
Living
• Alzheimer’s/Memory Care
• Assisted
Living
Mount Vernon of South Park
1400 Riggs Rd • South Park
412-655-3535
• Assisted Living
• Alzheimer’s/Memory Care
Ridgepointe
Overlook Green
5250 Meadowgreen Dr • Whitehall 5301 Brownsville Rd • Baldwin
412-881-8300
• Assisted
Living
412-653-6870
• Assisted Living
• Alzheimer’s/Memory
Care
www.fivestarseniorliving.com
© 2010 Five Star Quality Care, Inc.
S TAY 7 DAYS AND RECEIVE YOUR
8 TH DAY FOR FREE!
42 GUIDE
TO
GOOD HEALTH
Mom, We Need a Vacation:
Five Star Senior Living Communities
Offer Summer Respite Stay
and/or Short-term Care
W
hether you’re caring for
an older parent, or have
been thinking about
senior living for yourself, you
have lots of options in Pittsburgh
for Respite Care.
What is a Respite stay and/or
Short-term Care?
A Respite Stay will allow you to
move into a senior living community for a few days, weeks, or even
longer. For many seniors and their
families, they offer a welcome
change of pace. “It’s a short stay with
no long-term commitment, and it
can do so much for your family,”
says Jennifer Scarfone, Regional
Director of Sales and Marketing for
Five Star Senior Living. “It’s truly a
vacation from the everyday.”
A Respite stay is a resource for
children caring for their parents
while facing the demands of a career
and their own children at the same
time. When it’s time for a family
vacation, business trip, or just some
time needed for yourself, many find
reserving a respite stay for their parent can help. “A respite stay is also
great if Mom or Dad needs a little
extra attention following a hospital
stay or surgery,” adds Scarfone. “It’s
different than moving in – our
guests enjoy a fully furnished apartment – plus dining, activities, 24hour support, rehabilitation and all
of the same Five Star amenities as
our residents.”
Our South Hills communities
offer the added benefit of assisted
living, for seniors who could use a
little help with activities like dressing, walking, personal care, and
managing their medications. “A
respite stay is also a great way to try
assisted living and see if it’s right for
you,” says Scarfone.
Five Star Senior Living invites
area seniors and their families to discover a Respite stay this season. “To
see if a respite stay may be right for
you or someone you love, simply
call one of our communities to
reserve a complimentary lunch and
gift. We hope to see you soon!”
To learn more about a
Respite Stay and/or
Short-term Care at one of
Five Star Senior Living’s
communities, visit
www.fivestarseniorliving.com
or call us today.
>
University of Pittsburgh Part of National Study to
Explore the Health Benefits of Aspirin in Elderly
The University of Pittsburgh Graduate School of Public Health is recruiting participants for a new study that will explore whether aspirin can not
only prolong life, but also help prevent physical disability and dementia in
healthy older people. The Aspirin in Reducing Events in the Elderly
(ASPREE) study is the largest international trial ever sponsored by the
National Institute on Aging, and includes researchers from across the
United States and Australia.
Aspirin is known to prevent heart attacks and strokes in people with
established heart disease – benefits which clearly outweigh any associated
risks, such as bleeding – but the role of aspirin in older people without a
history of cardiovascular disease is less certain.
“ASPREE will help determine whether the potential benefits of low-dose
aspirin outweigh the risks for people age 70 and over, especially important
now since people are living longer than ever.” said Anne B. Newman, M.D.,
M.P.H., director of the Center for Aging and Population Health at the
University of Pittsburgh Graduate School of Public Health and principal
investigator of the Pittsburgh site.
Additional information about the study is available at www.ASPREE.org.
People in the Pittsburgh-area interested in finding out whether they may be
eligible should call the University of Pittsburgh at 800-872-3653.
www.guidetogoodhealth.com
Summer 2010
World-Class Residences from a Leader
in World-Class Care
UPMC is known for its world-class care and now we’re extending that expertise to independent and assisted
living options. UPMC Senior Communities offers retirement living as it should be, providing all the comforts
of home with the care of UPMC you’ve come to expect. Our warm and welcoming environment makes
residents at UPMC Senior Communities feel right at home.
Independent Living Residences
Assisted Living Residences
Beatty Pointe Village, Monroeville
Canterbury Place, Lawrenceville
Cumberland Woods Village, North Hills (opening in August)
Cumberland Crossing Manor, North Hills
Hampton Fields Village, Allison Park
Seneca Manor, Penn Hills
Lighthouse Pointe Village, O’Hara Township
Strabane Woods Manor, Washington
Seneca Hills Village, Penn Hills
Weatherwood Manor, Greensburg
Strabane Trails Village, Washington
Vanadium Woods Village, Scott Township
To schedule a free lunch or to tour one of our beautifully designed residences,
call 1-800-324-5523 or visit upmcseniorcommunities.com.
Summer 2010
www.guidetogoodhealth.com
GUIDE
TO
GOOD HEALTH 43
SENIOR
RESOURCES
Alzheimer’s Support
ALZHEIMER’S ASSOCIATION –
GREATER PA CHAPTER
1-800-272-3900 • www.alz.org/pa
Assisted Living
SOUTHWESTERN ASSISTED
GROUP RESIDENCE
500 Lewis Run Rd., Pleasant Hills
412-896-1501
www.southwesternhealthcare.com
FIVE STAR SENIOR LIVING
www.fivestarqualitycare.com
Ridgepointe - Baldwin
Overlook Green - Whitehall
Mount Vernon of South Park
Franciscan Manor - Beaver Falls
Mount Vernon of Elizabeth
UPMC SENIOR COMMUNITIES
1-800-324-5523
upmcseniorcommunities.com
Canterbury Place, Lawrenceville
Cumberland Crossing Manor, North Hills
Seneca Manor, Penn Hills
Strabane Woods Manor, Washington
Weatherwood Manor, Greensburg
HAWTHORNE WOODS
791 Locust Avenue
Washington, PA 15301
724-228-8662
Contact: Joe Mastrangelo - [email protected]
Community Programs
for Seniors
INTEGRACARE
The Pines of Mount Lebanon – Pittsburgh
The Residence at Willow Lane –
McKees Rocks
Willow Heights – McKees Rocks
Newhaven Court – Butler
Newhaven Court – Greensburg
www.IntegraCare.com
THE RESIDENCE AT WILLOW LANE
412-331-6139
“
INTERFAITH VOLUNTEER CAREGIVERS OF
SOUTHWESTERN PA/FAMILY SERVICES
412-345-7420
[email protected] • www.ivcswpa.org
Home Care
COMFORT KEEPERS
412-831-2270
www.comfortkeepers.com
Medical Emergency Alert
HANDS THAT CARE
1-888-308-8284
Retirement Living
INTERIM HEALTHCARE
800-447-2030
www.interimhealthcare.com
LIFE PITTSBURGH
1-877-9-LIFE-NOW
www.lifepittsburgh.org
LIKEN HEALTH CARE
412-816-0113
www.likenservices.com
MAY I HELP YOU
412-853-0125
www.mayihelpyouinc.net
SENIORLIFE
1-877-998-LIFE(5433)
Uniontown – 724-434-LIFE
www.seniorlifeuniontown.com
Washington – 724-222-LIFE
www.seniorlifewashington.com
CARING COMPANIONS
724-337-7581
[email protected]
www.stayathomecare.net
SOUTHWESTERN HOME CARE
OF SOUTHWEST REGIONAL
MEDICAL CENTER
724-627-2607 • www.sw-rmc.com
CELTIC HEALTHCARE
1-800-355-8894 • celtichealthcare.com
Living & Care Options
PRESBYTERIAN SENIORCARE
1-866-797-6215 • www.SrCare.org
AUTOMATED SECURITY ALERT
800-338-7114 • www.asamate.com
ARROWOOD AT SOUTHWESTERN
412-469-3330
www.southwesternhealthcare.com
BAPTIST HOMES
www.BaptistHomes.org • 412-563-6550
PROVIDENCE POINT
www.ProvidencePoint.org • 412-276-4500
UPMC SENIOR COMMUNITIES
1-800-324-5523
upmcseniorcommunities.com
Independent Living Residences:
Beatty Pointe Village – Monroeville
Cumberland Woods Village – North Hills
Hampton Fields Village – Allison Park
Lighthouse Pointe Village –
O’Hara Township
Seneca Hills Village – Penn Hills
Strabane Trails Village – Washington
Vanadium Woods Village –
Scott Township
Senior Placement
ENHANCED SENIOR PLACEMENT AGENCY, LLC
724-612-3294
www.enhancedseniorplacementagency.com
Skilled Nursing Care & Rehabilitation
KADE SKILLED NURSING &
REHABILITATION FACILITY
1198 W. Wylie Ave., Washington
724-222-2148
> If you would like to be included in this directory, call (412) 835-5796 or email [email protected]
We needed someone
to help care for Mom,
so we both felt safe.
”
“It was our mission for Mom to remain independent
and happy, and we knew that we needed some extra
help. We searched for the perfect caregiver, and we
found her. She loves Mom and Mom loves her.
Celtic Healthcare has exceeded our expectations from
day one – and will continue to be our partner with
all Mom’s home healthcare needs.”
1.800.355.8894
celtichealthcare.com
G E R I AT R I C C A R E M A NAG E M E N T • L I VIN G A S SISTA N CE • H OM E C A R E
R E H A B ILITATION • HO SPICE / PA LLI AT I VE C A R E • DISE A SE M A NAG E MEN T
44 GUIDE
TO
GOOD HEALTH
www.guidetogoodhealth.com
Summer 2010
Peace of Mind is just a
Ph ne Call Away...
HEALTHY HOME
LIVING
Summertime and a Clean House
Can Be Easy!
By Anna Johnson
hen summertime comes, you can spend your weekends having
fun instead of cleaning—and still enjoy a fresh and pleasant
home. Caroline Behun, owner of Maid With Care, a leading
cleaning company in the area, recommends the FOLLOWING EASY 5
TIPS:
W
1. Don’t give paperwork a chance to take over. Each day when
you get the mail, walk directly to the trashcan and throw away unimportant papers immediately. Designate places for store circulars, bills, magazines, etc., and put them away at the same time. The same goes for kids’
school papers.
2. Keep just one or two items on coffee tables, end tables,
dressers, etc. To make dusting quick and easy, keep surfaces clear of
knick-knacks, frames, vases, etc.
3. Keep kitchen countertops clear, too. The less you store on your
countertops, the less there is to get greasy, sticky, or in the way of a quick
countertop wipe-down.
4. Clean something while you’re waiting for something else. If
you’re going to be in a room any way, make good use of your time. Dust
or vacuum when a commercial comes on.Wipe down kitchen appliances
while a pot boils. Clean your bathroom mirror, sink, and toilet bowl until
the water warms up in your shower.You can get a lot done in 5 minutes
when you don’t allow dirt or grime to build up.
MAY I HELP YOU, INC.
Senior Care Ser v ice s
MOST REQUESTED SERVICES:
❤ Personal Care
❤ Companionship
❤ Meal Preparation
❤ Health Promotion
❤ Recuperative Care ❤ Shopping/Driving
❤ Household Management
❤ Light Housekeeping
❤ Respite Care
“Through the bond of caring, we are committed to maximizing
our client’s quality of life by enhancing mind, body,
and spirit, as we help them REMAIN INDEPENDENT.”
Alzheimer’s Care is Our Specialty
www.mayihelpyouinc.net
412.853.0125
Enriching
Lives
Since
1990
5. Spray your tub and shower with a shower cleaner every day.
Give this job to the last person to use the shower. Fifteen seconds each
morning will save a half-hour of elbow grease later in the week.
The old saying that “an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure”
is never truer than when we talk about cleaning. By preventing clutter and
nipping dirt and grime in the bud throughout the week, you’ll leave your
summer weekends free and clear to make treasured memories with family and friends!
When a busy schedule makes upkeep too great a challenge, consider a
professional cleaning service like Maid With Care to get you back on track.
>
Caroline Behun invites anyone interested in learning more
about Maid With Care to call her at (412) 221-8500 or
(724) 942-1034 or visit the website at www.maidwithcare.com.
ATTENTION ADVERTISERS
Look what’s coming in the FALL Issue of the
Guide To Good Health...
• Diabetes Update • Women's Health
• Breast Cancer Update • Home Care & Hospice
• Sports Injuries • Advances in Rehabilit ation
• Brain Health • Senior Living Options
For more information on advertising, call
(412) 835-5796 or e-mail
[email protected]
Summer 2010
www.guidetogoodhealth.com
GUIDE
TO
GOOD HEALTH 45
Mark Your Calendar
For more events, visit our CALENDAR section
on our website at www.guidetogoodhealth.com
at Southpointe Iceoplex ~ September 11th 2010
AN EXPO JUST FOR WOMEN!
Fun, Fitness, Health, Beauty,
Fashion, Jewelry, Home, Leisure,
Lifestyle, Prizes and more!
www.womensshowsp.com
A portion of the gate admission will be donated to the
Washington County Women’s Shelter
10 a.m. - 5 p.m. • Admission: $5.00 • Don’t Miss IT!
Senator Jane Clare Orie, Majority Whip
In Conjunction with UPMC Passvant
invites you to attend her
14th Annual Fall Senior Expo
Free Breakfast & Hot Lunch
Hundreds of Door Prizes
Entertainment & Demonstrations
46 GUIDE
TO
GOOD HEALTH
ENTIRELY FREE OF CHARGE
NO RESERVATIONS NEEDED
ALL SENIORS ARE WELCOME
Questions? Contact Jenna Morgan at 724-776-3500
or via email at [email protected]
Friday, September 24, 2010
9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.
Butler County Airport
475 Airport Road
Butler, PA 16002
www.guidetogoodhealth.com
Flu Shots
Special Guests
Grand Prize Drawnings
Summer 2010
Please join us for the 2010 Preemie Conference
Saturday, August 14, 2010
at the Western PA School for Blind Children
Featured program, “Preemie for a Day”
will be available to the first 150 registered.
Plus, over 18 breakout sessions.
Approximately 8 CEUs are available for the day.
To register: www.PARENTRESOURCENETWORK.org
or call with questions 877-647-4373.
Are you planning a
Senior Expo or Health Fair?
Call (412) 835-5796 or [email protected]
to see how we can help you promote your event.
Memory Walk is the Alzheimer's
Association’s national signature
event to help those battling
Alzheimer's disease.
9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.
Washington Memory Walk • Saturday, September 25th
Peterswood Park
Registration 8:00 a.m. • Walk Start 9:00 a.m.
For more information please call 412-261-5040. We hope to see you there!
EVE ENSLER
Playwright
HOSTED BY GOVERNOR EDWARD G. RENDELL &
THE PENNSYLVANIA COMMISSION FOR WOMEN
ELLEN ALEMANY
CEO Citizens Financial Group
KELLY CORRIGAN
Best-Selling Author
YOUR TIME IS NOW!
Be fearlessly resilient.
Rebound with purpose & power.
Lead with intention.
Discover what you want
—and go get it.
Summer 2010
MAE JEMISON
First African-American Female Astronaut
OCTOBER 14
PITTSBURGH
DAVID L. LAWRENCE CONVENTION CENTER
REGISTER NOW!
PAGovernorsConferenceForWomen.org
www.guidetogoodhealth.com
GUIDE
TO
GOOD HEALTH 47
REIKI: SUPPORT
FOR YOUR INNATE
ABILITY TO HEAL
NATURAL HEALTH
InsomniaHow Kundalini Yoga
Can Help!
By Heather Ferri
I
t is very common to have student's walk into
a yoga class and announce they are not interested in chanting or doing meditation work.
Why? Through my teaching experiences
around the world I have found people have misread much information on yoga. I also believe
we have hired people to teach yoga who are not
certified nor educated in the science. Chanting
is vital in creating a sound vibration that heals
the body from within. The science behind the
chanting involves the positioning of the tongue
with having 84 meridians in the mouth that
stimulate different glands in the brain.
Chanting certain vowels opens the chambers to the brain and relaxation
occurs.
The first reason people may be having insomnia is they are not capable of
shutting down their nervous system. In Kundalini Yoga we have specific sets
to focus on the nerves and reprogram the body to begin to feel a calm release
and a deeper breath. Second, using one of the meditations Sa Ta Na Ma,
which you press on each finger with the thumb while chanting those sounds
over and over again, begins the process of cleaning the sub-conscious part of
the brain. This is the part of the brain that focuses on the past. The goal in
meditation is to get to a place where you can be completely in the present
moment.
Finally, doing meditation work right before you go to bed will build better habits for the brain and body to process. In time I have found student's
to experience a shift in their sleeping patterns and feel a window of clarity
enter their minds. This window then creates a healthier mind during the day
from having the ability to properly shut down at night.
Heather Ferri, Certified Kundalini Yoga
Practioner, master trained, motivational speaker,
and life coach. Heather teaches classes for
corporations, privates located in Greentree, and
she also travels to clients’ homes. Call (412) 276-2466
to register for a class. Her yoga space in Greentree holds
beginner to advance classes in the morning, lunch-time
and at night!
>
Natural Health
“Reiki” is a Japanese word representing
vitality or life force and is often associated
with the eastern healing arts such as
Acupuncture, Yoga, and Tai Chi, as well as
Therapeutic Touch, taught in many
American nursing schools. Reiki Healing
In fact, Reiki
was developed in Japan during the last cencan help
tury by Dr. Mikao Usui, and is taught and
practiced world-wide.
enhance the
Pronounced 'ray-key', Reiki Healing is
effectiveness
recognized as a holistic and natural therapy
of other
which considers the total human being,
rather than separating it into various physitherapies and
ological, psychological and spiritual parts.
reduce
During a treatment, the focused caring
unpleasant
side
touch of the trained practitioner conveys
Reiki energy to the client. It is a hands-on effects, such as
energy healing system that supports individthe nausea and
ual healing processes and allows the recipifatigue
ent to control when and where the Reiki
energy is used.
associated with
Reiki effectively addresses a wide variety
chemotherapy.
of physical, emotional, mental and spiritual
healing needs, such as stress, cancer,
fibromyalgia, migraines, arthritis, asthma, pain management, mental health
issues including depression, end of life care… the list goes on! Reiki is also
very effective in supporting existing wellness.
Reiki Healing can be used in conjunction with your regular medical program. In fact, Reiki can help enhance the effectiveness of other therapies
and reduce unpleasant side effects, such as the nausea and fatigue associated with chemotherapy. Other frequently reported general benefits include:
pain relief; reduction and often elimination of mental and emotional stress;
deep relaxation; support for addiction withdrawal; and acceleration of the
healing process.
A Reiki treatment is very gentle and relaxing. A typical session lasts about
60 minutes and consists of light placement of a practitioner’s hands on or
above prescribed points about your head, torso and back, while you sit or
lie comfortably, fully clothed. It’s the perfect opportunity to fully relax, let
go of stress and allow your body to utilize its innate ability to heal.
>
Key Stone Reiki is an alliance of practitioners based in Pittsburgh
trained in the Usui System of Reiki Healing. They are available to
help you explore this effective and versatile approach to healing.
Key Stone Reiki has offered Reiki treatment and training in the
Pittsburgh area and beyond since 1994. Call (412) 727-1731 or visit our web
site at www.KeyStoneReiki.com for an introductory, discounted appointment.
> For more stories on leading a healthy life, go to www.guidetogoodhealth.com
Alternative Wellness Naturally
Directory
“Achieving Good Health Begins in your thoughts.’
Specializing in Emotional Iridology and Sclerology
(Iris & Sclera Analysis)
Homeopathic approach is applied to the analysis using Vibrational Essences.
Chinese Acupuncture & Herbs Center
Offering Reiki Energy Sessions Since 2003
Tabatha Knox, NHP, CEI, RMP
• Back/Neck Pain • Headaches/Migraines • Anxiety/Depression
• Infertility • IVF/IUI Support • Facial Rejuvenation
• Weight Control • And MORE
412-563-3328
Mt. Lebanon Professional Building, 20 Cedar Blvd. Suite 301, Mt. Lebanon, PA 15228 Cheng Charlie Yang, L. Ac
Xuan Maggie Liu, L. Ac
www.pittsburghacupuncture.com
48 GUIDE
TO
GOOD HEALTH
• Board Certified through the American
Association of Drugless Practitioners
• Member of the International Iridology
Practitioners Association
• Member of the International Association
of Reiki Professionals
www.guidetogoodhealth.com
568 3rd Street, 2nd Floor
Same Floor As Art Studio
Beaver, PA 15009
412-613-4480
www.alternativewellnessnaturally.com
Summer 2010
Acupuncture and Natural
Facial Rejuvenation
A
cupuncture
and
Traditional Chinese
Medicine (TCM) can
provide a safe, effective, natural, and drug-free approach
to reducing the signs of
aging. A facial rejuvenation
using this ancient technique
can improve muscle tone of
the face and neck while
addressing
underlying
imbalances that may have
contributed to the aging
Acupuncturists (l-r) Cheng Charlie Yang, L. Ac
process.
Why does skin sag? and Xuan Maggie Liu, L. Ac are certified by
According to TCM, wrin- the National Certification Commission for
kles begin internally from a Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine and also
constitutional imbalance are licensed by the Pennsylvania Medical
and fundamental weakness Board. Xuan Maggie Liu specializes in infertilof Qi. Qi circulates through- ity, IVF support, women’s care and facial rejuout the body within a series venation.
of pathways called meridians. Flowing though these pathways, Qi provides nourishment, support, and
energy to every cell, tissue, muscle, and organ.
As we get older it becomes more difficult for Qi to flow upwards to “lift ”
the face. This leads to inadequate muscles tone, and over time, wrinkles and
sagging skin. A variety of factors can contribute to this-poor diet , digestion
and circulation, or emotional and environmental stresses.
Give your skin a lift. A facial rejuvenation using acupuncture, tightens
pores, improves muscles tone and dermal contraction, while enhancing and
increasing the elasticity of the skin. Acupuncture can reduce signs of aging
by strengthening and stimulating the circulation of Qi within the meridian
pathways, especially those of the face. You will look and feel more energetic,
calm, vibrant and healthy.
Acupuncture treatment may be combined with herbal supplement, exercise and acupressure in order to maximize results.
Facial rejuvenation with acupuncture and TCM is virtually painless, and
a non-surgical method to reduce the signs of aging. Before using drugs or
surgery to improve appearance, consider acupuncture. It is an effective, natural, safe, drug free and painless alternative. It helps your whole body to look
and feel younger.
>
For more information, call Chinese Acupuncture & Herbs Center, LLC,
at (412) 563-3328 or visit their office at Mt Lebanon Professional
Building, 20 Cedar Blvd, Suite 301, Pittsburgh. You can visit the
website at www.pittsburghacupuncture.com.
From 2009 Acupuncture Media Works
THE POWER OF THE BREATH:
Healing the Mind with T’ai Chi and Qigong
By Dr. David Clippinger
T
When a person
breathes softly and
slowly, the heart
relaxes and generates serotonin (a neurotransmitter that
enhances mood),
which generates a
sense of calm.
’ai Chi and Qigong have been used
for thousands of years to heal the
diseases of both body and mind.
The use of T’ai Chi and Qigong for diseases such as high blood pressure, diabetes, arthritis, cancer, and the like is welldocumented, but the mental health benefits of these practices are often overlooked.
Yet, countless people for thousands of
years have turned to T’ai Chi and Qigong
to successfully treat mental diseases such
as anxiety, depression, bi-polar disorder, schizophrenia, autism, and other
mental disorders.
The secret to the effectiveness of T’ai Chi and Qigong is the emphasis upon
the breath, which restores the balance between the mind, emotions, and the
physical body. When a person breathes softly and slowly, the heart relaxes and
generates serotonin (a neurotransmitter that enhances mood), which generates a sense of calm. Such focused breathing establishes the connection
between the emotions and the logical mind wherein the mind stops “racing,”
the emotions are brought under control, and the physical body relaxes. The
immediate benefits are profound, and under proper guidance, breath healing
can be harnessed so that the individual has greater control over mental states.
One such famous technique is called “Lama Breathing”—a reference to its
use in Buddhist Monasteries in Northern China by monks and their teachers, called “Lamas.” To perform this exercise, assume a comfortable seated
position. Cover the right nostril with the thumb of the right hand and inhale
through the left nostril. Next, cover the left nostril with the middle finger of
the right hand and exhale through the right nostril. Then inhale through the
right nostril, close the right nostril, and exhale through the left nostril.
Repeat the exercise through at least ten breath cycles, and with the mind
focusing upon the physical qualities of the breaths themselves, which should
be natural, soft, deep, and slow.
The technique of Lama Breathing bridges the heart and the brain and centers the practitioner. This same technique is the mainstay of T’ai Chi and
Qigong, and it is the “secret” of regaining the balance of body and mind and
achieving “calm stability”—or what we know as being healthy, grounded,
and feeling well. To learn these techniques is to harness
the power of the breath in order to cure diseases as well
as to preserve and maintain health.
>
Dr. David Clippinger is a T’ai Chi and Qigong
Master, who has studied with a number of
famous and respected T’ai Chi and Qigong
teachers. More information about T’ai Chi,
Qigong, and meditation can be found at
www.stillmountaintaichi.com or (412) 480-9177.
“Exercise isn’t torture...but getting into those jeans sure is!”
Personal Training
& Fitness Classes
for Adults and Kids
See our website
for class schedule
Located at 88 Fort Couch Road, Suite 102, Pittsburgh, PA 15241
phone: (412) 835-5411 t web: www.lockespersonalfitness.com
Certified
KUNDALINI YOGA TEACHER
KEY
STONE
REIKI
Heather Ferri, master trained,
motivational speaker and life coach...
CLASSES AVAILABLE:
• Greentree location • Private in-home
• For corporations
To Register Call Heather at 412-276-2466
www.heatherferri.com
Summer 2010
www.keystonereiki.com
» Relieves Pain
» Accelerates Healing
» Reduces Stress
» Induces Deep Relaxation
» Increases Vitality
» Improves Mental Health
» Supports Addiction Withdrawal
» Enhances Other Treatments & Therapies
For Introductory-Discounted Appt: 412.727.1731 or [email protected]
www.guidetogoodhealth.com
GUIDE
TO
GOOD HEALTH 49
D IRECTORY
In order to choose a health professional
who is right for you, you need information.
The following guide is a good place to start.
Alzheimer’s Support
Fitness Centers
ALZHEIMER’S ASSOCIATION –
GREATER PA CHAPTER
1-800-272-3900 • www.alz.org/pa
WILFRED R. CAMERON
WELLNESS CENTER OF THE
WASHINGTON HOSPITAL
724-250-5228
wrcameronwellness.org
Cardiology
JEFFERSON CARDIOLOGY ASSOCIATION
412-469-1500
www.jeffersoncardiology.com
Careers In Healthcare
LAKE ERIE COLLEGE OF
OSTEOPATHIC MEDICINE
814-866-6641 • www.lecom.edu
Children With Special Needs
See page 35
Chiropractic
SOUTHPOINTE CHIROPRACTIC
& FITNESS
Dr. Tyson Swigart
724-873-0700
southpointechiropractic.com
Cleaning Service
HEALTHTRAX® FITNESS & WELLNESS
1000 Higbee Drive, Bethel Park
(412) 835-0500 • www.healthtrax.com
Cosmetic Surgery
AMELIA PARE´, M.D.
724-941-8838 • amypare.com
RADIANCE PLASTIC SURGERY
Lori Cherup, M.D., FACS
701 Boyce Rd., Bridgeville
(412) 220-8181 • www.drcherup.com
Dentist
DR. ROBERT LUTHER
412-788-6300
www.pittsburghlaserdentist.com
Diabetes Care
ST. CLAIR HOSPITAL
DIABETES CENTER
412-942-2151 • www.stclair.org
Diagnostic Services
JRMC DIAGNOSTIC SERVICES
Bethel Park – 412-854-7100
Brentwood – 412-886-2700
Waterfront – 412-325-0990
Jefferson Hills – 412-460-8300
Jefferson MRI – 412-469-1701
www.jrmcpittsburgh.com
Emergency Response Service
Health News You and Your
W
IN
TE
R
Family Can Use to Achieve
Hospice
CELTIC HEALTHCARE
1-800-355-8894
celtichealthcare.com
FAMILY HOSPICE AND
PALLIATIVE CARE
1-800-513-2148
www.familyhospice.com
HEARTLAND
Home Care • Hospice • IV Care
1-800-497-0575
heartlandhospice.com
Hospitals
CANONSBURG GENERAL HOSPITAL
1-877-284-2000 • www.wpahs.org
PITTSBURGH’S OHIO VALLEY
GENERAL HOSPITAL
412-777-6161
www.ohiovalleyhospital.org
SOUTHWEST REGIONAL
MEDICAL CENTER
Waynesburg, PA
724-627-3101 • www.sw-rmc.com
ST. CLAIR HOSPITAL
412-942-4000 • www.stclair.org
Fitness Trends
for 2009
MEDICAL MIRACLES 16
• UFE’s Alternative to Hysterectomy
• New Procedure for Knee Replacement
REHABILITATION 18
DENTAL HEALTH 25
BOOMER & SENIOR
LIVING OPTIONS 28
HOSPICE 30
CHILDREN WITH
SPECIAL NEEDS 32
34
New! MEDICAL STUDIES
HEALTHY HOME LIVING 38
Does Your Back Go Out
More Than You Do?
Researchers Study for Signs
of Early Detection of Autism
ElderC26are
Baby Boomers Facing Addiction
a life limiting
There are options for those with
See page
illness … Consider Gateway
listen and respond.
We
you call home
Providing home based services…wherever
Mastectomy & Wig Boutique
EAGLE MEDICAL
EQUIPMENT CORP.
7937 Steubenville Pike, Oakdale
724-218-1051
www.pittmedicalsupply.com
Natural Health
ALTERNATIVE WELLNESS NATURALLY
Tabatha Knox, Reiki Master
412-613-4480
www.alternativewellnessnaturally.com
CHINESE ACUPUNCTURE & HERBS
CENTER
412-563-3328
www.pittsburghacupuncture.com
KEY STONE REIKI
412-727-1731
[email protected]
www.keystonereiki.com
STILL MOUNTAIN T’AI CHI
AND CHI KUNG, PITTSBURGH
Dr. David Clippinger
412-480-9177
[email protected]
www.stillmountaintaichi.com
Orthodontics
GOOD ORTHODONTICS
111 Washington Street, Washington
724-225-1114
22 Old Clairton Road
412-655-4660
677 Washington Road
412-344-4663
[email protected]
See page 21
Pain Relief
THE INSTITUTE FOR PAIN
DIAGNOSTICS AND CARE
www.ifpdac.org
412-777-6400
Pediatrics
PEDIATRIC ALLIANCE, P.C.
See ad on page 31 for locations
12 different locations
www.pediatricalliance.com
Physicians
WASHINGTON PHYSICIAN HOSPITAL
ORGANIZATION PROVIDER NETWORK
See pages 26-27
Podiatry
PITTSBURGH FAMILY FOOT CARE, P.C.
Dr. Karen Luther
Dr. Darlene N. Saheta
Dr. Wayne E. Clouse
Dr. Charles R. Dushack
724-941-9440
www.pffcpc.com
Primary Care Physicians
PREFERRED PRIMARY CARE
PHYSICIANS
Walter J. Robison, M.D.
Ashith Mally, M.D.
Stephanie Colodny, M.D.
724-941-8877
www.ppcp.org
Radiology
SOUTHWEST REGIONAL
MEDICAL CENTER
Waynesburg, PA
724-627-2622
www.sw-rmc.com
Rehabilitation
HEALTHSOUTH
1-877-937-REHAB
NOVACARE REHABILITATION
159 Waterdam Road, McMurray
724-942-1511
Physical, Occupational and Aquatic
Therapy. Incontinence Rehab. Massage
Therapy open to the public.
Senior Resources
See page 44
Social Services
WASHINGTON CITY MISSION
724-222-8530
www.citymission.org
A non-denominational, Christian, social
services organization, which provides critically needed goods and services to homeless, poor, and needy of Western
Pennsylvania without regard to race, color,
creed, national origin or religion.
Special Needs, Adult & Children
ACCESSABILITIES, INC.
It’s about possibilities, not disabilities.
724-832-8272
www.accessAbilities.org
Support Organizations
AMERICAN RESPIRATORY ALLIANCE OF
WESTERN PENNSYLVANIA
1-800-220-1990 • www.healthylungs.org
Varicose Vein Treatment & Cardiology
JEFFERSON CARDIOLOGY ASSOCIATION
412-469-1500
www.jeffersoncardiology.com
RADIANCE SURGERY CENTER
Dr. Philip Georgevich
701 Boyce Rd., Bridgeville
412-220-2336
WEIGHT LOSS
HEALTHY PERFORMANCE®
1-800-900-THIN
HealthyPerformance.net
Wound Care
OHIO VALLEY GENERAL HOSPITAL
WOUND CARE CENTER
412-250-2600
www.ohiovalleyhospital.org
Yoga
HEATHER FERRI
412-276-2466
www.heatherferri.com
Call (412) 835-5796 or [email protected] to see how you can be included in this directory.
20
09
REMEMBER
Medicare: What People
Want to Know
DIANA FLETCHER
724-733-7562
www.dianafletcher.com
Medical Equipment
If you are interested in this study, contact Michelle Colwell at 412-653-3080
ext.1041 for more information.
Optimal Health
Tips for
HEART CARE
CENTER FOR PAIN RELIEF
Jay L. Karpen, MD, DAAPM
McMurray, Monroeville, Waterfront,
Greensburg
724-942-5188
Glaucoma Research Study
FR
EE
g
Life Coaching
THE WELLNESS CENTER
Southwest Regional Medical Center
724-627-2511 • www.sw-rmc.com
AUTOMATED SECURITY ALERT
800-338-7114 • www.asamate.com
Visit us online at www.guid
Orthopedics
K&J’S COMPLETE WOMAN
BREAST FORMS, BRAS, WIGS
A WOMAN'S SPECIALTY BOUTIQUE
Our selection and 20 years experience will
help you achieve a look that's right for
you. Monroeville: 412-646-4661
Bethel Park: 412-835-5093
www.kjcompletewoman.com
LOCKE'S PERSONAL FITNESS
91 Fort Couch Road, Pittsburgh
412-835-5411
www.lockespersonalfitness.com
Health Management Services
AMERICAN HEALTHCARE GROUP
412-563-8800
www.american-healthcare.net
MAID WITH CARE
412-221-8500
www.maidwithcare.com
THE WASHINGTON HOSPITAL
724-225-7000
www.washingtonhospital.org
to sign up
for your
subscription
Hospice.
www.gatewayhospice.com
1-877-878-2244
LOW INTRODUCTORY PRICE OF $7.99. To receive your own copy direct mail,
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50 GUIDE
TO
GOOD HEALTH
www.guidetogoodhealth.com
Summer 2010
Taking Care of Caregivers
D
absorbs all the nutrients
o you know that
from the foods we eat and
there are 44.4
distributes it throughout
million
carethe body. Unless this organ
givers in the United
is healthy, the nutrients
States and that there are
cannot be absorbed and
22.9 million people
you will feel tired, lethargic
being cared for by these
and simply worn out.
caregivers? With the
A good probiotic will
average age of death in
give the body the good bacthe United States being
teria of the body which will
78 for men and 81 for
keep the immune system
women, we are living
working up to par.
By Dr. Bridget
longer
than
ever.
Everyone needs probiotics
Modern medicine and
Chufo
if you have ever taken an
technology have kept us
alive longer but everything comes antibiotic or eat meat or fowl.
with a price. That price is that many Probiotics are also a great suppleof these older folks need someone to ment for skin, hair, nails and brain
take care of them. But, who takes development.
Another great supplement is a
care of the caregiver?
The staff at Healthy Performance good antioxidant which strengthens
does. We do that by offering nutri- the immune system that will weaken
tional counseling, advice for exercis- without proper care. An antioxidant
ing and great nutritional supple- works against the negative effects of
ments. So often, the caregiver aging. Another key vitamin is
depletes their vitamins and minerals Vitamin D which is necessary for the
by not eating in a healthy manner. absorption of calcium, which is
All too often the caregiver eats on needed in preventing brittle bones
the run and fast food becomes a which leads to breakage. Add a good
“normal” way of eating. There is no protein drink or protein bar when on
time for preparing nutritious meals. the run and you’ve already made a
Yet, the caregiver is the one who has huge difference in taking care of the
to have an abundant amount of ener- caregiver. By following these simple
steps, you can ease your emotional,
gy just to get through the day.
Our bodies, when under stress, physical and mental stress.
deplete the B vitamins first. It also is
Dr. Bridget Chufo is
vital in the production of energy,
President of Healthy
including the metabolism of fats,
Performance.
carbohydrates, and protein. Without
For
more
information,
call
them, the body cannot function to
its optimum. We also need to have a 1-800-900-THIN or visit the website
healthy gut. The intestinal tract www.healthyperformance.net.
>
$:$5(1(66
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Guide To Good Health
Directory
NON-MEDICAL HOME CARE
TRUSTED CAREGIVERS & COMPANIONS
Quality, Trusted In-Home Care
Companionship, meal preparation, transportation, medication
reminders, family respite, grooming & hygiene, shopping, errands,
light housekeeping, laundry, schedule appointments, water plants,
organize household, play cards, make crafts, write letters,
HANDS
retrieve and read mail, discuss current events.
THAT CARE
1-888-308-8284
EAGLE MEDICAL EQUIPMENT CORP.
PRODUCTS AND SERVICES
•
•
•
•
•
•
Back Braces
Bath Safety
Beds & Accessories
Canes & Crutches
Commodes
Diabetic Shoes
• Personal Care
• Patient Room
Home Care
• Powered Mobility
• Pressure Prevention
• Respiratory
• Electrotherapy
• Glucose Meter
• Incontinence
Products
• Jobst Products
• Lift Chairs
•
•
•
•
•
Rollators
Orthopedic
Walkers
Wheelchairs
Wound Care
Products
We accept Medicare, Medicaid, Highmark, and most private insurances.
FREE
7937 Steubenville Pike Oakdale, PA 15071
Delivery & Set Up
Phone (724) 218-1051 • Fax (724) 218-1165
www.pittmedicalsupply.com
Greater Pennsylvania Chapter
Information, Referral, Education and Care
Helpline 1.800.272.3900
www.alz.org/pa
We’re here to help and offer hope. All day. Every day.
In-Home Care For Your Loved Ones
Do you or someone you know need
help with the following?
• Respite (Family Relief)
• Transportation / Errand
24 hr. care available
- Pharmacy Supplies
• Meal Preparation
- Grocery Shopping
• Bed/Tub Transfers limited assistance - Gift Shopping
Phone: 724-337-7581
[email protected] • www.stayathomecare.net
• Additional Services include:
- Light House Keeping
- Laundry and Linen Washing
- Medication Reminders
“The care you need
to stay at home!”
276814
• Walter J. Robison, M.D.
• Ashith Mally, M.D.
• Stephanie Colodny, M.D.
5000 Waterdam Plaza, Suite 120
(724) 941-8877
www.ppcp.org
____________________________________________________________________________________________
All board certified Internal Medicine. • Additional location on 1039 Brookline Blvd, Pittsburgh.
DIANA FLETCHER CLC
Speaker • Author • Life Coach
[email protected] • www.dianafletcher.com
412-612-5977
Summer 2010
www.guidetogoodhealth.com
GUIDE
TO
GOOD HEALTH 51
ADVANCED
outpatient care AT V ILLAGE SQUARE .
Lab Services
•
MRI
General X-rays
CT
•
•
•
Diabetes Center
Physical Therapy
•
•
Mammography
•
EKG
Bone Densitometry
All backed by the staff and expertise of a hospital that’s minutes away.
SPECIALIZING IN EXCELLENCE
Village Square at Fort Couch Road & Oxford Drive
.
412-942-7100
.
www.stclair.org