Section E — Health Care Section E Section E of the Business Reviewreview and Forecastt Focusesfocuses Onon Thethe Health Care Industry.Y

Friday, Feb. 19, 2021 Section E — Health Care Section E Section E of the Business ReviewReview and Forecastt focusesfocuses onon thethe health care industry.y. Area hospitals are featured inside as wellll as a varietyi off therapeutic and rehabilitation centers and social service agencies. Stories in this section show how these organizations dealt with the blow of the coronavirus while people were relying on them like never before. Workers at area hospitals, clinics and agencies were among the first to receive the COVID-19 vaccine. While achievements were recognized and improvement projects were completed at many of the businesses and organizations that provide health care services to the community, administrators and workers spent most of 2020 adjusting to new safety protocols that were necessary to stave off the spread of COVID-19. While each entity has its own struggles and solutions for how to keep their doors open for business, a By AJ Titley common part of their success stories UPMC Northwest registered nurse Caryn Erwin administers the COVID-19 vaccine to Bart Matson, a physician with the leads to the same place — their peo- hospital. The first Pfizer vaccine injections began going into the arms of hospital workers on Dec. 21. ple, their staff.

BHSCardiology.org

Community Dennis Beldin New Bethlehem, PA Heart Attack Survivor inspired Stent and Impella Heart Pump care.

Dennis lived by the motto, “anything I want to do, I go do it,” until a sudden heart attack stopped him in his tracks. During his Life Flight to Pittsburgh, Dennis’s heart stopped and he was diverted to the closest cardiac unit - the BHS Heart Team at Butler Health System. Here, the cardiac team sprang into action and performed an emergency procedure to place a stent and Impella Heart Pump to decrease the workload on his heart. Now Dennis is back doing whatever he wants and feeling even better while doing it.

To schedule, call BHS Cardiology at 866-620-6761. Accepting most insurances, including Highmark and UPMC health plans. E-2 – THE DERRICK. / The News-Herald Friday, February 19, 2021 Hospital marks a year like no other UPMC Northwest juggles pandemic, improvement projects (Editor’s Note: This article was written by Brian Durniok, president of UPMC Northwest.) The year 2020, while un- like any other, was a challenging one yet still a strong one for UPMC Northwest. While the COVID-19 pandemic occupied much of our efforts, our success in manag- ing this unprecedented event was only made possible by the outstanding work of our UPMC Northwest staff who continue to enable us to bring the highest quality of care to the residents of the Venango County region and beyond. Being part of a 40-hospital academic medical center helped in our management of Brian Durniok the pandemic. We share resources, transfer patients, Hospital president have access to a variety of ing to be used for a COVID experts, and were able to se- collection site for surgical pa- cure the appropriate amounts tients. of personal protective equip- Behavioral health proj- ment to keep our staff safe. ect to remove ligature risks Patient access to UPMC within the department. Northwest services remained Added automatic doors high last year with 5,232 total and hand swipes to the doors admissions, 503 deliveries, to the restrooms at the main 2,103 medical observations entrance to provide easier ac- and 4,291 surgeries. cess to ADA clients. Additions to the UPMC Added nurse call pull- Several projects were completed in 2020 at UPMC Northwest to accommodate the changes in the way Northwest staff include: cords to several bathrooms in people received treatment due to the infectious coronavirus. Patient safety and quality care remained Dr. Claudia Chapa Gar- our Emergency Department cia — Psychiatry the hospital’s top concern, according to hospital president Brian Durniok. and patient halls on second Dr. Christopher Colosi- and third floors for patient nationally by The Leapfrog mo — Hospitalist-Family safety. Group where we were named Practice Stairs have been added one 13 UPMC hospitals to Dr. Algie LaBrasca — to the picnic pavilion to pro- receive top “A” grades from Plastic Surgery vide safer access. the group’s fall 2020 Hospital Dr. Scott McKimm — UPMC Northwest’s Safety Grade. Hospitalist-Family Practice achievements in patient safety Dr. Moh’d Akram A. and quality were recognized See UPMC NW, Page E-3 Sbeih — General Surgery Dr. Yuriy Zamota — Family Medicine We continue to offer the largest telehealth program in the UPMC system with 40 outpatient specialty programs and 10 inpatient programs. Site improvement highlights for UPMC Northwest included: Facility improvements to assist with treatment of COVID-19 patients including creation of negative pressure Katelin Speer, director of operations at UPMC Northwest, carefully cuts open rooms and units. a box holding vials of the Pfizer vaccine when it arrived in mid-December. Addition of hand swipes Also part of receiving the vaccine vials at the local hospital were Kelly to replace push pads to operate automatic doors to reduce Smerker, left, supervisor of pharmacy operations, and Christine Bingman, infection control risks. The community showed support for workers at intensive care unit director and infection control specialist. Converted vacant space UPMC Northwest by posting thank you signs and in the Reno open MRI build- honoring the health care workers as heroes.

UPS driver Doug Baumgarten of Seneca was a welcome sight at UPMC Northwest when he delivered the first shipment of the Pfizer vaccine to the Seneca hospital on Dec. 17. The box Baumgarten is holding contained vaccine doses that were given to the hospital staff. Staff at UPMC Northwest honored a long-term COVID patient, David Parsons, with a sign of encouragement and applause when he was discharged last spring after a lengthy stay in the hospital’s intensive care unit.

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ty and overall care experi- Get with the Guidelines Gold ence. Plus – Target: Stroke Honor

M UPMC NW Each spring and fall, more Roll Elite from the American Continued from Page E-2 than 2,600 hospitals across Heart Association. The award the country are rated by Leap- recognizes the hospital’s com- Medical staff at Seneca The Leapfrog Group is a frog based on their ability to mitment to providing the most national organization that prevent medical errors, infec- appropriate stroke treatment, aims to improve health care tions, and other harms to pa- according to nationally recog- hospital creates $25,000 quality and safety for con- tients. Developed under the nized, research-based guide- sumers and purchasers. guidance of an expert panel, lines established from the lat- At UPMC, tremendous the Leapfrog Hospital Safety est scientific evidence. dedication and consistent ef- Grade uses 28 measures of UPMC Northwest’s annual scholarship fund fort on behalf of every physi- publicly available safety data economic impact to the region cian, nurse and staff member to assess participating facili- is $175 million. In 2019, The medical staff at UPMC Northwest dietary positions but want to move to an- enables us to provide the saf- ties. The data is weighted and UPMC Northwest provided hospital in Seneca created a scholarship other position,” Edder said. est, highest quality care for combined to produce a single, $10 million in benefits to the fund designed to help non-clinical hospi- The fund is the first designated scholar- every patient, every day. Leap- consumer-friendly score that community, including $6.4 tal workers pursue education in the health ship endowment within the hospital foun- frog’s recognition reflects our is published as a letter grade. million in free and reduced- field in July. dation, said Edder. incredible team whose priori- Additionally, UPMC cost care to the area’s most ty is always our patients’ safe- Northwest received the 2020 vulnerable citizens. Dr. Randy Boggess, vice president of Planning for the new scholarship has medical affairs for UPMC Northwest, and been underway for the past year, said Dr. Linda Barnhart, vice president of the Boggess, but it was “sidetracked” by the UPMC Northwest medical staff, coordi- onset of the coronavirus pandemic. nated the effort to establish a $25,000 “Basically, the idea that a number of us endowed scholarship through the non- on the medical staff had was to figure out profit Northwest Hospital Foundation. the best way to intervene and give some- The medical staff numbers 240 at UPMC thing that can exist in perpetuity,” said Northwest. Boggess. “There are the routine things we Interest generated by the fund will be all do — food kitchens, clothing drives used to provide one or two scholarships a — but we felt this has the potential to year. make a difference in someone’s life.” The awards are geared for individuals While the scholarship largess is not who are enrolled in higher education in directly related to the challenges that the pursuit of a degree or certification related pandemic has put on health care provid- to direct patient care. ers, it could have an effect on them. “It is open to Northwest employees “Hopefully, it will address shortages in who hold non-clinical positions but want the health field,” said Boggess. “The idea to be in a clinical position such as work- behind the scholarship is to try and make ing in radiology, nursing, anything that something available to somebody, to ease has to do with direct patient care,” said the burden for them in their educational Theresa Edder, executive director of the efforts. ... We think it has the potential to foundation. change individuals’ lives by making things “I believe it will be a big help for peo- available to them that not might be there ple who perhaps work in housekeeping or otherwise.” Skin is a Beautiful Thing Medical Spa Services Coolsculpting™ Sculptra™ Diamond Glow™ Genius Tightening and Lifting™ Botox™ /Dysport™ Juvederm™ / Restylane™ SmartXide Laser Nova Thread Lift™ Resurfacing™ Skin Pen MD Microneedling™ Massage Therapies Sclerotherapy™ Jane Iredale Makeup™ Laser Hair Removal Mona Lisa Feminine Rejuvenation™ Chemical Peels Kybella™ 814-227-2362 www.simplyskinmedispa.com Dr. David Ferraro was among the first workers at UPMC Northwest to receive 420 Wood St., Clarion his COVID-19 vaccine. Christine Bingman, director of quality and infection 10% off any service with this ad control, administered the shot to Ferraro. Think Wesbury! If you or a loved one are looking for... • Independent Living: Maintenance free homes and apartments in Thoburn Village include all utilities, taxes, emergency response, security, activities and transportation services.

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31 North Park Ave., Meadville, PA 16335 E-4 – THE DERRICK. / The News-Herald Friday, February 19, 2021 Titusville hospital shows growth TAH ranks as No. 1 critical access hospital in state Dr. Lisa Rubin Dr. Theodore Rockwell

This article was submitted by the hospital. Titusville Area Hospital was the best critical access hospital in Pennsylvania Titusville Area Hospital in 2020, according to a report by the Lown Institute Hospitals Index. continues to show growth, progress and accomplish- all categories considered by started last year as well. This The practice continues to ments in a time when com- the Lown Institute Hospitals expansion project allowed for grow as it continues to accept munities are relying on hospi- Index. further primary and specialty new patients. tals like never before. “Titusville Area Hospital is services in the clinic. The most recent addition is Last year was full of many proud to be recognized for In the fall of last year, two the dental clinic. Dr. Theo- challenges — not just for hos- our achievements and to be gastroenterology doctors, dore Rockwell provides pedi- pitals, but for all businesses, measured by the outcomes Karandeep Maur and Nitin atric and adult dental care at families and individuals. that matter to the community Patel, were added to the spe- the clinic, which accepts Amid these challenges and we serve,” said Lee Clinton, cialty services offered. Both Medical Assistance and will struggles, all of the staff at chief executive officer. “When doctors are board certified primarily treat under-served TAH have shown commit- we are compared side by side and see patients in the RHC children that are otherwise ment and dedication to serv- to larger hospitals and come on an outpatient basis. denied care due to insurance ing the community. out on top based on how we In addition, TAH wel- coverage. One of TAH’s greatest ac- treat our patients and our em- comed board certified gyne- These additional services complishments of 2020 was ployees, it is truly rewarding,” cologist Lisa Rubin. She along with the existing ser- being ranked the No. 1 critical he said. brings 35 years of experience vices in the RHC required Dr. Marie Matthews Lara Johnson access hospital in the state. Continued growth in the and much needed gynecologi- more space. A renovation The hospital also ranked in last year is another grand ac- cal care to the community. project has added eight more the top 6.6% of all critical ac- complishment. Her services include birth outpatient exam rooms, nurs- tions made it possible to en- hospitals in Pennsylvania to cess hospitals in the nation by In January of 2020, TAH control services, diagnostic es station, an additional wait- hance privacy and ensure pa- receive the vaccine,” said The Lown Institutes ranking opened the Tidioute Health evaluations and testing, gyne- ing room, a lab draw room, tients could maintain social Clinton. index. Center located at 115 Main cological procedures, routine restrooms and offices. distancing during COVID-19. “The ability to vaccinate When compared to all hos- St. in Tidioute. This practice and follow-up care, meno- The other large renovation On Dec. 15, Titusville Area our staff and frontline staff pitals in the state, not just is open two days per week, pausal care, and overall wom- project that has been under- Hospital received the Pfizer within the community is a critical access hospitals, TAH while providing care at the en’s health and wellness. way since 2019, the Emer- COVID-19 vaccine. true blessing. TAH has been was in the top 10 for value of Tionesta Health Center the Board certified primary gency Department renovation, Since then, TAH has ad- and will continue to take steps care and ranked third in the other three days per week. care physician Marie Mat- is scheduled to be completed ministered the vaccine to to ensure the health and safety state for patient satisfaction. Lara Johnson provides pri- thews opened a practice in the very soon. Allowing for pri- thousands of individuals with- of our staff and patients. The In all of northwestern mary health care for people of RHC as well. Dr. Matthews vate exam rooms, a triage in its service area, according vaccine offers another layer Pennsylvania hospitals, TAH all ages at both Tionesta and provides acute and chronic area, new reception, larger to the state Department of of protection for our staff pro- was ranked No. 1 in patient Tidioute health centers. care to patients of all ages. waiting room with a separate Health vaccination plan. viding patient care as well as satisfaction and in pay equity Renovations of the Rural She has special interest in pe- grief room and canopy cov- “I am extremely grateful offers hope in the fight against and No. 2 in the area based on Health Clinic in the hospital diatrics and women’s health. ered entrance. These renova- that TAH was one of the first the pandemic,” he said.

A huge renovation project at Titusville hospital’s emergency department will soon be completed. The project, which has been underway TAH administrators include, from left, Holli Wolfe, associate vice president of opera- since 2019, includes a new reception area and other improvements tions; Jill Neely, chief financial officer; Brenda Burnett, vice president of patient to enhance privacy for patients and their families. services; and Lee Clinton, chief executive officer. TAH among finalists Titusville hospital adds two for AHA Rural Hospital gastroenterologists to staff Titusville Area Hospital wel- Leadership Award comed two board certified gastro- TITUSVILLE — Titusville Area emergency department. As a result of enterologists, Dr. Karandeep Maur Hospital was a finalist in the Ameri- these changes, patients reported high- and Dr. Nitin Patel, to the TAH can Hospital Association’s Rural er satisfaction; 100% of those sur- medical staff in the fall. Hospital Leadership Award for 2020. veyed said they would recommend Both physicians see patients The award recognizes small or ru- the ED. on an outpatient basis in the ral hospital leaders who guide their TAH also took steps to address TAH Physician Services office hospital and community through transportation challenges for non- located on the first floor at the transformational change on the road emergency appointments, including hospital. to health care reform. through new clinics and community Maur received his medical de- They display outstanding leader- collaborations to increase the number gree from St. Matthews University ship, responsiveness to their commu- of access points. School of Medicine. nity’s health needs and demonstrate a He completed his residency collaborative community process that About the American and fellowship at Louisiana State has led to measurable outcomes. Hospital Association University in Shreveport, Louisi- Titusville Area Hospital serves a Founded in 1898, the American ana. Maur is board certified in rural and largely low-income popula- Hospital Association is a not-for- internal medicine and gastroen- tion in several counties. profit association of health care pro- terology. Under the leadership of Lee Clin- vider organizations and individuals Patel received his medical degree ton, TAH responded to indications of that are committed to the health im- from Robert Wood Johnson Medi- poor patient satisfaction in its emer- provement of their communities. cal School. Dr. Karandeep Maur Dr. Nitin Patel gency department by significantly It advocates on behalf of its near- He completed his residency at reducing the “door-to-doc” time. ly 5,000 member hospitals, health Boston Medical Center and his ville Medical Center, TAH contin- diseases such as Celiac disease, By the end of 2017, the average systems and other health care orga- fellowship at the University of ues to expand outpatient specialty Crohn’s disease, Irritable Bowel median time of transport to the emer- nizations, our clinician partners — Medicine and Dentistry of New services. We are pleased to now Syndrome, ulcerative colitis and gency department reported by CMS including more than 270,000 affili- Jersey University Hospital. offer GI services to our commu- esophageal reflux. for the last three quarters of the year ated physicians, 2 million nurses Patel is board certified in in- nity,” said Lee Clinton, TAH’s The doctors also will perform was 13 minutes — down from 46 and other caregivers — and the ternal medicine and gastroenter- chief executive officer. surgical procedures including minutes. 43,000 health care leaders who be- ology. The office will manage and colonoscopies and endoscopies at The reduction also decreased the long to our professional membership “In collaboration with Mead- treat a variety of gastrointestinal TAH. amount of time patients spent in the groups. Friday, February 19, 2021 THE DERRICK. / The News-Herald – E-5 Clarion Hospital staff gets vaccine This article was submitted by the hospital.

The first batch of the Pfiz- er-BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine arrived at the Clarion Hospital a little after 10:30 a.m. Dec. 17 via UPS. Phar- macist Nicole Dehner received the shipment of 975 vaccinations for the hospital. There was an excitement among the staff as news of the shipment of the vaccine arriv- ing spread around the Clarion facility. These doses were al- located by the state to vaccinate hospital-based workers who provide the most direct COVID-19 patient care. On Dec. 18, Clarion Hos- pital started vaccinating its Nicole Dehner, a pharmacist at Clarion Hospital, accepts the employees. first delivery of the Pfizer vaccine to the hospital on a mid- Pharmacists Nicole Dehner December day. and Russ Wieszczk prepared the vaccines for the staff, and nurses Lori Martin and Kelly Young prepared to administer the vaccine to employees. Staff member Christie Stewart from the OR department was the first in line to receive the vaccination at Clarion Hospital. Approxi- mately 272 Butler Health System Clarion Hospital employees or affiliated staff have been vaccinated to date. Steven Davis, president of Clarion Hospital, was one of the first to receive the COVID- 19 vaccine. Medical staff leaders have worked hard to distill all of Christie Stewart, who works in the operating room at Clarion Hospi- the available information and tal, was the first hospital employee to receive the second dose of present multiple platforms the vaccination to prevent the coronavirus. and FAQs to answer questions from staff and the public about the safety of the vaccine. The COVID-19 vaccine vials were prepared by pharmacists “Employees have been able Nicole Dehner and Russ Wieszczk before being given to to schedule their second vac- hospital staff. cination at the time they registered,” said Davis. As the second round of Frontline vaccine begins to be adminis- workers at the tered, Butler Health System Clarion is systematically Clarion Hos- reaching out to front line pital, such as workers in the county to offer Leslie Walter, the vaccination. chief nursing “We will continue the ef- officer, were fort to make the vaccine avail- given the new able to as many people as COVID-19 vac- possible, following DOH and CDC guidelines,” said Davis. cination as The BHS website at www. soon as the butlerhealthsystem.org/ vials were de- CoronaVirus.aspx, will con- livered to the Clarion Hospital President Steven Davis rolled up his tain regular updates. hospital. sleeve to receive his first dose of the COVID-19 vaccine. Virus has changed the landscape of medical community (Editor’s Note: This arti- in the community. Estima- faced strict guidelines for who Fortunately, the sharing of protection, respirators, etc. newed hope and spirit. cle was written by Dr. David tions on the number of pa- could be tested. information across the medi- The demand for supplies Despite heroic care and ef- Rottinghaus, chief medical tients we would need to treat Although access to testing cal community worldwide has and people became even more fort, patients died frequently officer and vice president of were has improved, it still remains been a very bright light in an apparent in the fall and winter in December and into Janu- medical affairs for Butler stagger- a challenge in many ways, at otherwise extremely difficult when we hit all-time highs for ary. As hospitalizations in the Health System.) ing. The least partly due to the virus and often devastating pan- disease, hospitalizations and region and system have begun thought being so new to the world. demic. Ideas on how to treat deaths. to fall, people can look with It was early January of of per- We learned quickly about patients spread rapidly around Hospitals filled up, surge renewed hope. 2020 when discussions began haps COVID, the various symp- the world due to technology. units were opened and staff The FDA emergency use to occur in Butler Health Sys- treating toms and presenting illnesses The challenge of dealing that had not done bedside care authorization of two vaccines tem about a new virus in Chi- hundreds that were a result of COVID with a new illness was diffi- in perhaps years were pulled along with rapid vaccination na. COVID-19, as it would be of very ill and that we had to test many cult enough, but the opportu- back to the bedside after some of health care workers is a known, was a novel coronavi- patients more people than we suspect- nity to connect with and learn rapid training. good sign we may have some rus that jumped from an ani- w a s Dr. David ed because they did not all from colleagues all over the When visitors were not al- normalcy in the near future. mal to human in late 2019. daunting Rottinghaus present with flu-like illness. globe gave hope we would lowed, hospital staff became Widespread vaccination of “Novel” means is was not but the Many patients were weak figure out how to make many family. our population is months away, previously known to infect hu- system expanded capacity, and fatigued. We saw blood patients better. Dying patients were com- but people can still protect mans. The clinical syndrome paused procedures, drew staff clots in the lungs, strokes and Caring for COVID patients forted by a compassionate themselves effectively by so- and worst effects on people in from all over the system other conditions not typically is very labor intensive. stranger who met a basic need cial distancing, washing hands was called SARS, Severe and prepared for an incon- seen with a virus. You need more staff be- of humans — the need to feel frequently, wearing masks and Acute Respiratory Syndrome. ceivable demand for medical As our recognition of this cause the very sick patients loved and connected. maintaining diligence. Initial information was care. new virus grew, so did our require so much detailed care Health care workers from Vaccines, more widespread that the virus was easily Fortunately, we were not knowledge of how to treat such that one nurse can care all settings supported their testing, and better knowledge spread as a respiratory virus, hit as hard as population- patients. for fewer patients and needs frontline colleagues. Exhaust- of COVID and how to best and initial reports of mortal- dense areas like New York Seriously ill patients had more support staff. You also ed emotionally, physically treat patients give reason for ity were over 5%. City or Philadelphia and the severe pneumonia and lung need lots of equipment from and mentally, people leaned the hope that some normalcy Given the highly conta- mortality rate was much lower damage all over their lungs. gowns, gloves, masks, eye on each other and sought re- is just on the horizon. gious nature of the virus and than initial reports in China. Our management of patients rapid spread in China, we be- Testing for COVID-19 currently, with lower mortali- gan to prepare for an eventual was, and has been, very frus- ty rates and a few key medica- pandemic. trating. In the early stages of tions like steroids, has sub- As January rolled into Feb- the pandemic in the U.S., test- stantially changed since the ruary and March, we made ing in March would take up to spring and the early months plans for widespread disease three weeks to return. We of the pandemic.

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Call for more information or to schedule an evaluation. 21174 Rt. 322 814-677-1390 Corsica, PA • I-80 Exit 70 145 Steﬀee Blvd., Seneca 814-379-3085 [email protected] www.sapphiremoon.biz E-6 – THE DERRICK. / The News-Herald Friday, February 19, 2021 Foundation supports VNA services, programs Due to COVID-19, the VNA go County hospice patients. This article was submitted Foundation and The Collins House Goals of this facility are to im- by the foundation. are currently not holding events. prove the quality of life and main- However, those in need of bereave- tain the dignity of the guests in its The Venango VNA Foundation is ment support are encouraged to con- care. Each resident has a comfort- a nonprofit corporation whose sole tact the VNA and sign up to partici- able, home-like setting with 24/7 purpose is to generate funding to pate in programs when they resume. staff and VNA individualized care. support the charitable care and ser- Caring and compassionate indi- Each resident has their own bed- vices provided by the Visiting Nurs- viduals age 18 or older and interest- room and bathroom and can take es Association of Venango County. ed in giving of their time can help small personal items to decorate This organization provides fund- the foundation by assisting with the their rooms. Meals are provided for ing for patients in need, purchases youth camps and The Collins House the residents, as well as laundry as- patient equipment, and provides for hospice facility. sistance if needed. Patients’ family charity care. It also offers three Volunteers are given a brief train- and friends can visit their loved one youth bereavement camps: Camp ing by the VNA of Venango County at The Collins House. Good Grief, Horses for Healing, and and must pass screenings and clear- “With so much uncertainty in our Hope for the Holidays. ances. world today, there is one thing that is Each focuses on helping youths Details on all the Venango VNA steadfast and unchanging and that is to process their grief and grow be- Foundation’s programs and services our commitment to providing the yond their loss through group activi- are available online at www.venan- highest quality of care to our hos- ties and sharing with others who govnafoundation.org. Hospice house caregiver Jamie Stack, left, and Kim Slater pice patients,” said Kim Slater Heil, have also lost a loved one. Gifts to help the foundation pro- Heil, manager of the Collins House, stand inside the hospice a registered nurse who manages the The Caring Connection Program vide VNA services to patients who facility in Rocky Grove. hospice house. provides bathing assistance for VNA do not have the resources to pay for The VNA of Venango County has patients with ongoing needs after home health care can be sent to the tion. Its mission is to prevent and re- and his wife Betsy, who willed a provided compassionate care to those discharge from skilled services. Venango VNA Foundation at 491 lieve suffering for persons at the end charitable remainder unitrust and individuals facing end of life for over The Adult Bereavement Support Allegheny Blvd., Franklin. of life so they may live as fully and the Collins’ personal estate to the 100 years. The Collins House sets the Group is open to adults in the com- The Collins House is a three-bed- comfortably as possible and to offer VNA, the home provides a safe and agency apart from others, offering a munity in need of support after the room hospice care home owned and continued support to the bereaved. comfortable living environment for peaceful home on an 11-acre site in a loss of a loved one. funded by the Venango VNA Founda- Named after John Collins Jr. end-of-life care of VNA of Venan- quiet neighborhood. Clarion Forest VNA undergoes changes at the top CFVNA provides services This article was submitted in Clarion, Forest and Jeffer- by the agency. son counties. A major change in person- The Clarion Forest VNA nel happened in 2020, when continues to function as an longtime director Jill Over an- independent non-profit orga- nounced her retirement. nization. Lisa Steiner took over the CFVNA offers home reins as chief executive offi- health, hospice, palliative care cer in June. and maternal/infant services. The staff worked extremely These programs include hard over the past year. They skilled nursing, physical/oc- completed 1,326 admissions cupational/speech therapy, to the agency and 25,488 pa- medical social workers, home tient visits in 2020. health aides and registered di- “We have cared for many etician services. COVID-positive patients The hospice program in- since the onset of the pan- Lisa Steiner became cludes the organization’s demic,” Steiner said. “We are chief executive officer medical director, hospice rewarded with staff who has of the Clarion Forest chaplain and a bereavement worked tirelessly and vigi- VNA in June. and grief counselor. lantly throughout the pan- There is also a telehealth demic to make sure each pa- Education about the pan- Holly Fuller and Richard Barger check on office supplies to be sure VNA work- monitoring program avail- tient received the quality care demic has been a priority at ers have the necessary items to stay safe while serving the community. able. they deserved,” she said. the VNA. Training on the In addition, CFVNA oper- “The commitment and COVID-19 disease process, the spread,” said Steiner. The facility manager Rich- while they care for COVID- ates a VNA Extended Care dedication of our staff has and infection control mea- Multiple policies specific ard Barger has worked dili- 19 patients. Service, which offers private been especially appreciated sures have been crucial. to COVID-19 were developed gently to make sure the staff CFVNA continues to be a duty care and an Adult Daily during this difficult time,” “They help us mitigate the and staff members have been has had the personal protec- top employer in Clarion Living Center. Steiner said. risk of exposure and control trained in their use. tive equipment they need County. Next Step Therapy SENIOR SERVICES offers teletherapy Next Step Therapy, owned of children in the program. by Tracy Cowles, celebrated At one point, there were CYNTHIA CAUVEL OF DIANE E. HASEK its 15th year of operation re- 60% fewer children enrolled Attorney at Law cently. With its 32 full- and in early intervention. INSURANCE SERVICES part-time employees, the The Early Intervention agency has provided early in- program provides free sup- As we are now in the green, 1180 Elk Street, Suite 4 tervention services and outpa- port and services specially de- tient services while dealing signed to meet the needs of we are able to personally Franklin with the challenges presented the child and family for chil- assist you in selecting and by the coronavirus pandemic. dren up to age 3. Services can Ph. 814-437-0825 Offices are located at 145 include specialized instruc- enrolling in a Medicare plan. Steffee Blvd. in Seneca and tion, speech therapy, occupa- Fax 814-437-0827 118 S. Kerr St. in Titusville. tional therapy, physical thera- We are abiding by the Cowles recently published py and nutrition. her first book, “Online School Learning hubs Governor’s safety guidelines Wills • Living Wills During COVID-19.” She had for in-ofﬁce meetings by Trusts • Power of Attorney written a draft of the book while The United Way of Venan- her son attended a professional go County has partnered with appointment. Estate Administration • Custody online school but as the pan- Next Step Therapy to offer a CYNTHIACY CAUVEL Guardianship • Support • Adoption demic created many challenges learning hub at the agency’s 432-3365 for teachers and students, Seneca office. The hubs were Cowles revised the book so it implemented in December to SPECIALIZING could be a resource for parents. assist students and parents who are struggling with re- IN SENIORS 1263 Elk St Early Intervention Serving area seniors for Franklin, PA 16323 mote learning. Next Step Therapy pro- over two decades! 814-437-3674 Many families in Venango vides home-based early inter- County don’t have access to vention services in 14 coun- reliable internet services and is pleased to announce the addition of ties including Venango, Craw- many students are having • MEDICARE ADVANTAGE Terry Castleman, CRNP ford, Erie, Forest, Warren, great difficulty with virtual HMO - Drug Rx Plans Clarion, Armstrong, Indiana, learning, Cowles said. Terry has joined the Franklin office with Mercer, Clearfield, Jefferson, Next Step Therapy provides • Medicare Supplemental Heather McKeel, CRNP, Dean Spencer, M.D., Cameron, Elk and Butler. staff for the hub, a secure in- Insurance and Candyce Lucian, D.O. The pandemic has resulted ternet connection and a posi- • LIFE INSURANCE in a new way to provide ser- tive environment for learning. NICK MCLAUGHLIN vices for children in the pro- The hub operates from 9 a.m. gram. On March 31, the Office to 2 p.m. on weekdays and Give us a call. 432-2011 of Child Development and parents must call to reserve a Early Learning released guid- spot for their child. 814-432-3365 ance on providing virtual ser- The hub will continue to vices to children and families. operate until Cranberry School www.CynthiaCauvelSeniorInsurancePA.com “This was both challenging District returns to full face-to- Now Accepting New Patients. Call for an appointment. and exciting news as this was face instruction, Cowles said. the first time that we were able to use technology to pro- Outpatient clinic F. A. Padin, M.D. vide services,” Cowles said. The agency’s outpatient Because home visits have clinics were closed from been extremely limited to due March 17 through June 1 due Board Certified Urologist Providing government restrictions, tele- to government mandates re- the Highest Quality Care. therapy has been an innova- garding non-essential busi- Do you find you need to go too frequently tive way for children to re- nesses. Since June, Next Step ceive the services and sup- Therapy has had steady refer- & get up in the night? Dr. Padin can help. ports that they need to reach rals for outpatient counseling, Specializing in a full range of their fullest potential. Thera- physical therapy, speech ther- Adult and Pediatric Urology Services. pists use apps like Zoom, apy and occupational therapy. Google Duo and Skype to At both clinic locations, • Frequent urination in men & women connect with the families. children have access to the most • Erectile Dysfunction • Kidney Stones The management and ther- up-to-date therapeutic tools for • Prostate Enlargement & Cancer apists remain hopeful that occupational, speech and phys- they can soon return to tradi- ical therapy. Children can use a (814) 437-6212 or (814) 827-3636 tional home visits with chil- sensory walk, swings and wall dren as it has been a very long puzzles to develop skills. Spe- 150 Prospect Ave., Suite 201 Franklin 10 months of constantly cialized themed rooms feature 406 W. Oak St., Titusville changing regulations that have jungle fun, underwater crea- markedly reduced the number tures and transportation. Friday, February 19, 2021 THE DERRICK. / The News-Herald – E-7 Eckert Chiropractic celebrates 10th year the flexion/distraction tech- This article was submitted nique, which is a non-invasive by the company. means of treating low back pain and more specifically At a time where social dis- disc herniation, bulges, and tancing is the norm, Eckert spinal stenosis; and it also Chiropractic has found new stretches the musculature. In- ways to stay close to patients strument-assisted adjusting during the COVID-19 pan- with an activator the size of a demic. large marker is another option Dr. Kate Eckert, who es- for patients that are uncom- tablished her business in 2011, fortable with traditional ad- says that the pandemic has justing as well as children or created both challenges and the elderly. opportunities for both care Eckert, who is a mother to providers and their patients. two toddlers, has long been “Patient care can be much interested in pre-natal and more customized and much post-natal care. Eckert has been treating mothers-to-be Kammi Stiller, owner of Peaces For You, stands more flexible to meet the The staff at Eckert Chiropractic continues to grow. near a new infrared sauna that her massage prac- needs of the patient. From with the Webster technique Staff members are, from left, administrative assis- tice just purchased. private appointments to on- tant Chris Zagar, Dr. Kate Eckert, Dr. Joe Ayels- for years, which is a gentle and specific chiropractic line consulting and personal worth and chiropractic assistant Mikayla Markle. care tools, we’re supporting sacral analysis and diversified adjustment commonly used patients no matter where they ogies to aid in a patient’s re- This soft tissue manage- are on their healing and re- for pregnant women. Peaces For You covery after injury or surgery. ment system has been granted “You’re never not postpar- covery journey,” Eckert said. Eckert recently added a a medical patent and requires Eckert launched her own tum. A woman’s postpartum new therapy room offering re-certification. recovery can continue years specialized video series on specialized lumbar and cervi- “Myofascial work is about Massage Therapy social media to educate peo- after delivery whether she’s cal traction and rehabilitation the biomechanics and anatomy delivered her baby vaginally ple on how their body moves exercises. Specializing in Dy- of our bodies. We look at how and how they can apply pre- or via C-section,” Eckert said. adds infrared sauna namic Neuromuscular Stabili- and why our body is connected She has also participated in ventative movement and exer- zation, Eckert has invested in both physically and emotion- malayan salt blocks have been

both the BIRTHFIT profes- M A new halogenerator cise at home as part of both a offering more specific treat- ally,” Eckert said. She has been becoming popular in spas but pre-habilitative and rehabili- sional and coach seminars also was added to offer ment methods and on-site using this method since 2005 that help her to provide the it is. in fact, the halogenerator tative approach. support for her patients. and is the only ART-certified salt therapy to the that provides the therapy,” Eckert can also provide best possible care to pre- and The office has a Hyper chiropractor within a 40-mile post-partum mothers to help company’s lineup Stiller said. links to certain videos in the Vibe plate that uses vibration radius of Oil City. of services. The halogenerator uses series for patients to coach them through their mother- therapy, which is especially Eckert also incorporates hood transition. She also did pharmaceutical high-grade them with their at-home care good for smaller injuries such Rock Pods (cupping), Rock sodium chloride crystals and and rehab. specialty training in women’s This article was submitted as sprained ankles to aid in Blades, and Rock Tape to health in Dynamic Neuromus- grinds them into very small “Pre-habilitative work can healing. “We have lots of op- complement the ART treat- by the company. salt particles that can be dis- be overlooked because usual- cular Stabilization for pelvic tions at our office for patients ments. She continues to prac- floor rehabilitation. persed as aerosol into the air, ly patients aren’t motivated to who need chiropractic care. tice Dynamic Neuromuscular Peaces For You Massage she explained. do anything until they’re in Patients are treated with the Stabilization, or “DNS” as it Wellness team Therapy, owned by Kammi This aerosol is superabsor- pain or there is an issue,” said best tools and approaches for is commonly referred to, Eckert Chiropractic has a Stiller, has added an infrared bent and cleans the lungs, she Eckert. their specific area of concern which is a manual and reha- dedicated team of wellness sauna and halogenerator to said. It is an anti-inflammato- Eckert participates in and healing and recovery bilitative approach to optimize practitioners on-site to work the services it already offers. ry agent that helps to clear the course work each year, and goals,” said Eckert. the movement system based with patients. Infrared saunas are used body of toxins. It can also last year was no exception. Treatment methods upon the scientific principles Dr. Joe Ayelsworth joined for detoxifying the body to boost metabolism and help With travel limited, online of developmental kinesiology. Eckert Chiropractic full-time relieve pain and enhance one’s reduce food cravings as well courses were abundant and Eckert holds a bachelor of This method is particularly in 2019, and has regular office mood. They are seven times as help with skin conditions. Eckert focused on anatomy health science degree from popular among athletes. Eck- hours along with Eckert. more effective than traditional People with COPD and sinus biomechanics and neuromus- Gannon University in Erie ert works with many athletes Ayelsworth graduated from saunas for detoxing the body infections find salt therapy cular stabilization. She also and received her doctor of from high school students to Eckert’s alma mater,, New because of the depth the infra- very helpful, Stiller said. participates in a mastermind chiropractic degree from New marathon runners. York Chiropractic College, red heat can penetrate into the These services can be cou- group for wellness profes- York Chiropractic College in In addition to her Dynamic and started as an intern with body’s tissues and not just pled with massages, aro- sionals. These opportunities Seneca Falls, New York. Neuromuscular Stabilization her prior to graduating. The heat up the air, Stiller ex- matherapy and life coaching have helped Eckert respond to She has done extensive training, Eckert completed addition of another chiroprac- plained. sessions at Peaces For You to the needs of colleagues she post graduate work in the Ac- coursework in Neurokinetic tor in the office has allowed For this reason, the heat is provide invaluable health and works with as well. tive Release Technique, Kine- Therapy to assist with assess- patients more flexibility in also more tolerable at being wellness to clients. Eckert will be launching sio taping, pediatrics, pre-na- ing dysfunctional movement their scheduling of appoint- 100 to 150 degrees Fahrenheit Packages will be offered as online courses for other well- tal yoga, and nutrition. patterns in patients. She also ments as well as provided pa- as opposed to 200 degrees, well as individual sessions. ness practitioners to aid in Eckert Chiropractic spe- is trained in Rock Blades, tients with consistent care as which is used in conventional There are no known side their delivery of services to cializes in manual myofascial which is an instrument assist- both chiropractors practice saunas, Stiller said. effects to either halotherapy patients and clients. release or Active Release ed myofascial release tech- similarly. The health benefits from or infrared heat, only benefits Along with a local network Technique, which is a soft tis- nique that she has found par- Like Eckert, Ayelsworth infrared saunas include de- to be derived, Stiller said. of colleagues in wellness, Eck- sue treatment for repetitive ticularly helpful with knee has aligned his training to toxification, relief from sore With a combined 31 years ert Chiropractic employs many strains, sports injuries, and injuries, shoulder injuries, and treat a wide range of patients muscles, relief of joint pain of experience, Stiller and Ann different cutting-edge technol- cumulative trauma disorders. scar mobilization as well as with a special focus on pre- associated with arthritis, in- Mathews are the licensed Selective Functional Move- natal and athlete care. He is creased circulation, decreased massage therapists at Peaces ment Assessment to better certified in the Webster Tech- blood pressure, stimulation of For You. pinpoint the source of pain. nique, Nimmo, RockBlades, collagen and more. They offer a variety of “Scar tissue can be very and RockTape therapies. The benefits also include massages including Swedish, Kulinski Dental painful as well as hold a lot of Mikayla Markle, the prac- helping to fight premature ag- therapeutic, deep tissue, Shi- emotional pain for people in tice’s chiropractic assistant, ing, weight loss, promoting atsu, Lomi Lomi, sports mas- addition to the physical pain,” oversees patient work in the relaxation and boosting one’s sage, hot stone massage and she said. therapy room, which includes mood. pregnancy massage. will add dentist, Eckert also focuses on in- traction table work, stretch- Sessions in the sauna will Julia Allman is a certified flammation within the body ing, and various dynamic sta- range from 30 to 45 minutes, aromatherapist and life coach emphasizing the importance bilization exercises as well as Stiller said. who offers her services at the move to new digs of lymph flow work. She of- instruction on the use of myo- Halo Therapy is dry salt Oil City business. fers that “a stagnant lymph fascial release tools such as therapy that has been used in “She is the owner of Hon- Currently serving as the system is the root of many ail- foam rollers and trigger point Europe for years. est Aromas and we are proud This article was submitted dentist at the Salvation Army by the company. ments ending in ‘-itis,’ which balls. She is a certified yoga It was discovered that when to have her products and ser- Dental Center, “Dr. Matt” is a are inflammatory diseases. If instructor and offers private salt miners were underground vices offered at Peaces For 2004 graduate of Oil City your lymph system is stag- yoga and DNS stability flow in salt caves, their overall You,” Stiller said. The doctors and staff of High School and he holds de- nant your immune system will sessions to patients in-office. health was better, particularly Peaces For You also works Kulinski Dental marked the grees from Grove City Col- be as well.” Eckert also works with regarding respiratory issues. closely with Eckert Chiro- 40th anniversary of the busi- lege, New York Chiropractic Eckert has done a lot of neighboring massage thera- The first halogenerator was practic and Lynne Marshall’s ness in 2020. College and the University of videos to explore inflamma- pists Kammi Stiller and Ann designed in 1976 to replicate Headline Hair. In October 1980, Dr. Leon Pittsburgh School of Dental tion and show easy ways to Mathews from Peaces for You the benefits derived from salt All of the businesses are Kulinski, an Oil City native Medicine. help stimulate the lymphatic Massage to offer on-site mas- caves. located at 1047 Allegheny and graduate of Gannon Uni- The addition of a second system at home through things sage services to patients at her “Many salt rooms with Hi- Ave., Oil City. versity and the University of dentist will require increased like diaphragmatic breathing, office. Pittsburgh School of Dental clinical space, so the doctors dry brushing, and stimulating Patients can also receive Medicine, opened his general recently purchased the former lymph areas with light mas- Kinesio Taping and instruc- dental practice at 214 Center AAA building at 1763 Al- sage in places like around the tion services. St. in downtown Oil City. legheny Blvd. in Reno, most collarbone, sternum, neck or Eckert Chiropractic is lo- Five year later, Dr. Kulins- recently owned by DJA In- groin. cated at 1047 Allegheny Ave. ki purchased the Shields spection Services. Eckert Chiropractic offers in Oil City. building at 207 Center St., Remodeling at this site is which had formerly housed scheduled to begin soon with Brown’s Boot Shop, and an anticipated opening at the Our office proudly dispenses and services moved his office directly new location planned for late all major hearing aid manufacturers. • For your Transitional Care needs across the street, where it is summer. still located today. At least three new staff • Conveniently located in historic The Sycamore Street side members will be added to the downtown Franklin of the building is home to employee roster. Lisa J’s Hair Salon, and also Both Dr. Kulinskis and • Faith-based not for profit center provides a rear entrance for their staff will continue to the dental office. provide all aspects of general • Interdisciplinary team approach Despite being shut down dentistry, including routine to get you home faster for eight weeks earlier this examinations, X-rays and “Helping our community hear since 2002!” spring due to the COVID-19 cleanings, in-office and take- • We treat people not patients pandemic, it has been a busy home bleaching, fillings, cos- Providing quality, trusted audiology, year for the practice due to the metic restorations, crowns and hearing aid services. retirements and passing of sev- and bridge work (including eral other dentists in the area. implant restoration), root ca- • Diagnostic hearing evaluations Choose The Caring Place “The success of a business nals, extractions, dentures and • 90 day hearing aid trial period for your recuperation and like ours is due to the loyalty partials. New patients will be of our staff and our patients,” accepted and most insurance Located next to the rehabilitation needs. Kulinski said. plans are accepted. Knights of Columbus. “I have been very fortunate “It has truly been a pleasure Call us at 432-4491. to have three members of my serving the people of our area Parking in rear & staff with me for over 30 years for 40 years and counting,” handicap accessible. Come for a tour at 103 North 13th St. — and some patients even lon- said Leon Kulinski. “It doesn’t ger than that,” he said. seem like going to work every 1422 Liberty St., Hope Healing Caring This year will bring some day when you love what you Franklin, PA Terri Gilmore, AuD, CCC/A major changes at the business do. I’m happy that we will Doctor of Audiology as the staff prepares to wel- continue to offer our services come Kulinski’s son, Dr. Mat- to the community for a long (814) 432-2642 thew Kulinski, to the practice. time to come,” he added. GilmoreAudiology.com E-8 – THE DERRICK. / The News-Herald Friday, February 19, 2021 The Caring Place celebrates 25th anniversary Late in 2019, Grove Manor Corp. achieved Tammy Shreffler accepted the position as The center and its staff are looking for- This article was submitted by the facility. a longstanding goal of becoming autono- dietary manager in September of 2019. She ward to opening its doors to families, volun- mous, eliminating the need for a manage- lives in Grove City with her husband, Doug. teers, vendors and all other visitors. The Caring Place is a 100-bed skilled ment company. Prior to accepting the manager position at The Caring Place partners with Advan- nursing and rehabilitation center located at Policies and procedures are generated The Caring Place, Shreffler worked at Grove tage Care Rehabilitation led by Jessica 103 N. 13th St. in Franklin. and managed by the Grove Manor Corp.’s Manor as a cook in its dietary department. Roach. There is also an integral 32-bed assisted executive team. The Caring Place began 2020 by adopting She is an occupational therapist with a living/personal care home located at the The Caring Place is Medicare and Medic- a set of Core Values to provide grounding master’s degree from Gannon University. same address. aid certified and holds admission contracts and direction as an autonomous company. The physical therapist is Vanessa Dunwoody Lynnie Burkhardt is the administrator of with several major insurance companies in- They are: Honor the Lord, Serve Others, and the occupational therapist is Holly Cun- The Caring Place Personal Care Division. cluding UPMC Health plan, AETNA, Ad- Vocation, Compassion, and Collaboration. ningham. Jeffrey Scott and Lisa Landers The Caring Place is a non-profit agency vantra and Highmark Blue Cross. A corresponding award was given for share the speech and language pathologist owned and operated by Grove Manor Corp. The Caring Place celebrated its 25th an- each employee who exemplified these val- role. with an affiliation with Allegheny Region niversary in 2020, and has kept pace with ues. Whether it is caring human resources, up- Conference of the Churches of God, General the changes and challenges of providing Bonnie Peterson, in housekeeping, won to-the-minute virus mitigation or cutting- Conference. quality, holistic since it opened in July of the award that Honors the Lord. Jan Paden, edge technology, The Caring Place will The Caring Place is part of a group of 1995. a CNA of more than 20 years, received the continue to recognize the inherent worth and facilities in western Pennsylvania. Last year saw a change in key personnel award for Serving Others. Jon Marsh in the dignity of each unique person. Grove Manor began the mission of hope at the Franklin facility. laundry department received the award for Its mission is to offer quality and holistic and healing in the early 1970s and is located Roger Wilson was named as nursing Vocation. Ashley Kopnitsky, social service care to ill and aged residents provided in a in Grove City. It offers skilled nursing and home administrator. He is from New Jersey assistant, received the award for Compas- loving and compassionate environment, at- rehabilitation care and operates the Pines but is familiar with the area, having gradu- sion and Brandy Felmlee, social service di- tending carefully to their physical, spiritual, Personal Care Home. ated from Clarion University. He and his rector received the award for Collaboration. social, and emotional needs. The Caring Place followed suit in 1995, partner, Cara, live in Cranberry Township. No review of 2020 would be complete “We would like to extend our sincerest and most recently Woodcrest Senior Living Tracy Hogue joined ranks as director of without mentioning the COVID-19 pandem- appreciation to families, colleagues, volun- Community opened in Scotsdale located in nursing. She and her husband, Rick, live in ic. The Caring Place has taken rigorous steps teers, the clergy, hospice organizations and Westmoreland County. the Guys Mills area and are empty nesters. to mitigate the spread of the virus, keeping it the citizens of Venango County for all the Grove Manor Corp. is managed by a Human Resources has Christian Snyder at bay until late in November when it finally overwhelming support and concern ex- board of directors led by Dr. Rob Guy, pas- at the helm recruiting and retaining quality reared its ugly head. Staff and residents have pressed to The Caring Place Nursing and tor and historian, who has been on the Grove employees. He is a local fellow who worked been infected, but inoculations against Personal Care Home. The calls, cards, treats Manor board for many years. Paula Notar- with the Tennessee Titans, a NFL team, until COVID-19 began on Jan 4 for both residents and love has gotten us through our worst francisco is the executive director who over- he returned to the area in March. He resides and staff and the facility reports good com- year and gives us encouragement for the sees operations of the five centers. in Polk. pliance rate from both groups. challenges ahead,” said Burkhardt. Penn Highlands prepares to open Clarion facility ray and mammography, phys- on’s primary shopping plazas This article was submitted ical therapy, a cancer infusion on Route 68. This location by the company. suite, a women’s center, lab, was selected to optimize pa- and a drive-thru pharmacy. tients’ convenience and acces- For years, Penn Highlands The facility will also host a sibility for their care. Healthcare has been an estab- suite for visiting specialty The development of the lished part of the Clarion physicians who will offer their Clarion Community Medical community with specialty expertise to patients. Building is part of the Master clinics like Penn Highlands Virtual care will also be avail- Facilities Plan that the Penn Ophthalmology, as well as able for patients whose needs Highlands health system pulmonary services provided don’t require an office consulta- launched in 2018. by Penn Highlands’ award- tion, as well as to accommodate This building highlights winning Lung Center. those who may face challenges the system’s investment in in- Furthering that commit- with transportation. creasing the number of pre- ment to the Clarion area in “We are very excited to be mier facilities and services for 2021, this spring Penn High- able to offer services close to the communities it serves, as lands will open the doors of home for our patients in the Penn Highlands centralizes the new Clarion Community Clarion community,” said Mi- Penn Highlands Healthcare will open its new Clarion Community Medical space for its physicians, rotat- Medical Building, a 17,500- chelle Smith, vice president Building in the spring. ing physicians and several square-foot, two-story facility of the Penn Highlands Physi- specialties. featuring a QCare walk-in ur- cian Network. medical care in many different All this comes as part of Already under construc- Penn Highlands Health- gent care clinic, “superclinic” “With the addition of our specialties such as orthopedics, the Penn Highlands Health- tion, the new building will be care’s Master Facilities Plan services to deliver primary Clarion location, we will be pulmonology, endocrinology, care commitment to patients located in Monroe Township, will help bring even more ad- care and speciality services, able to offer close, convenient obstetrics and gynecology, and across northwestern and cen- Clarion County, in the Inter- vanced life-changing care to imaging services such as X- services for patients who need more,” Smith said. tral Pennsylvania. state 80 exchange near Clari- the Clarion area. Friday, February 19, 2021 THE DERRICK. / The News-Herald – E-9 Clarion Rehab Services Simply Skin Medical Spa to open fourth clinic caters to clients’ needs ment of acne scars or anti-ag- on the market for lifting and This article was submitted This article was submitted ing would be the combination tightening” of the face and by the company. by the company. of IPL to resolve pigmenta- body with no down time. This tion of acne scarring, mi- laser utilizes microneedling Like the rest of the world, CLARION — Though its croneedling to regenerate col- with insulated gold needles to the staff at Clarion Rehab Ser- hard to predict what 2021 will lagen, and diminish the un- deliver powerful radiofre- vices was happy to see 2021 look like in many aspects, we evenness of acne scars, fol- quency energy deep in the arrive. While the COVID pan- know what skincare and aes- lowed with an at-home regi- tissue to cause collagen stim- demic certainly provided its thetic influences will be trend- men of daily retinol and ulation, volume replacement, fair share of challenges in ing this year, according to Dr. weekly home peels. lifting and tightening in the 2020, a lot was learned and Cynthia Hoffmeier of Simply “Liquid Facelifts” are the area of treatment. the crew of Clarion Rehab is Skin Medical Spa in Clarion. newest advancements in reju- Simply Skin is pleased to looking forward to being bet- Hoffmeier said with so venating the face, Hoffmeier see the increase in men seek- ter than ever in 2021. many people working from noted. ing to improve the health of Clarion Rehab is excited to home and using their com- At Simply Skin, this treat- their skin and minimize the ef- announce the opening of an- puter screens to connect with ment uses fillers, such as Ju- fects of aging. More and more other clinic in 2021 to go people, she sees a lot of cli- vederm, Botox, and non-inva- men have added Botox, chemi- along with its main clinic (lo- ents who are looking for what sive lasers to give the results cal peels, and lasers to elimi- cated behind Walmart in the she calls a “Zoom Glow Up.” of a face lift without a surgi- nate unwanted pigmentation old roller skating rink), its “Maskne” treatment is one cal procedure. “We use the and to soften expression lines YMCA clinic (specializing in of the biggest talking points combination of treatments to for younger looking skin. aquatic therapy), and its clinic this year with the large num- restore volume, diminish lines Simply Skin’s massage in New Bethlehem at Semeyn ber of people having break- and wrinkles, redefine the jaw therapies remain one of its Family Practice. Seth Babington, owner of Clarion Rehab, stands in outs, inflammation and scar- line and cheekbones, and lift most sought-out spa treat- This new clinic will be lo- front of the center’s new facility in the Butler ring due to mask wearing. sagging brows,” Hoffmeier ments and continues to trend cated at the recently purchased Health System/Clarion Hospital Medical Office Medical Grade treatments said. The treatment is custom- upwards as clients have been Butler Health System/Clarion Building at Trinity Point in Clarion. have been necessary to reduce ized for unique results. acutely aware that self-care of Hospital medical office build- the breakouts and treat the hy- There is a greater interest in both their emotional and ing at Trinity Point in Clarion ity of their life, feel better, strength, fitness, general con- perpigmentation caused by the procedures to improve skin physical wellbeing is the key near Interstate 80. and even prolong their lifespan ditioning, and overall mobility inflammation. Hoffmeier be- texture and tone. Hoffmeier to a healthier life. “We will be offering cutting- and reduce the amount of and safety. lieves the most effective of these uses SmartXide Fractional Re- The spa continues to be the edge new PT services in the medicines they take,” Babing- In addition to these new treatments are chemical peels, surfacing Laser to stimulate area’s spa leader in facials, Lifestyle Medicine Institute,” ton said. and expanded services, Clari- microneedling, and use of medi- the skin to produce its own waxing, brow tinting and said Seth Babington, owner. Plans call for the new clinic on Rehab will continue to of- cal grade topical therapies. collagen that significantly soft- shaping, NovaLash Exten- This groundbreaking new facil- to open in the spring or early fer comprehensive, high-qual- Retinol is one of the most ens lines and wrinkles, can sions, body wraps and more, ity will share space with cardiac summer. ity, patient-focused PT, OT, potent topical agents to increase erase crepiness around the according to Hoffmeier. rehab and will give residents of Clarion Rehab has always ST and ATC services. collagen and cell turnover, to eyes, and results in a rejuve- She said plans for this year Clarion County and neighbor- provided a pulmonary rehab Following is a summary of treat acne, unclog pores, mini- nated appearance of the skin. include adding a relaxing ing counties the opportunity to program and looks to expand the many kinds of therapy that mize fine lines and wrinkles On the other hand, “Ge- lounge area, more treatments see a physical therapist and re- those services to those unfor- are offered at Clarion Rehab’s and even out skin tone. nius” is Simply Skin’s newest and a new retail area at the ceive education and treatment tunate individuals who have clinics: Because retinol can be quite treatment, which holds the spa, which is located at 420 about getting back into shape, been diagnosed with and af- Physical Therapy — gen- irritating, Simply Skin includes award for “the best treatment Wood St., Clarion. Babington said. fected by COVID. eral orthopedic therapy, pedi- gentler medical grade retinols The program will empha- There is emerging evidence atric therapy, pelvic floor/ in skin care regimens that in- CYNTHIA CAUVEL OF INSURANCE SERVICES size cardiovascular health that people who have been women’s health, aquatic ther- corporates antioxidants, and As we are now in the green, we are able to along with functional strength, diagnosed with COVID may apy, pulmonary rehab, sports plant-based agents to counter personally assist you in selecting and flexibility and balance. “It potentially suffer some long- medicine/ATCs, concussion the irritating effects and for the enrolling in a Medicare plan. truly can help people gain term effects. Physical therapy rehab, massage and manual anti-aging benefits. control of their lives and to can help these patients by therapy “We are aware that our We are abiding by the Governor’s safety lose weight, improve the qual- working to improve their Occupational Therapy — clients want more streamlined guidelines for in-office meetings by skin-care treatments; that in- appointment. hand therapy, lymphedema, CYNTHIA CAUVEL pediatric therapy, work hard- volves several smaller treat- 432-3365 ening, pre-employment and ments as opposed to a huge SPECIALIZINGSPECIALPEPECECIC ALALLIZINING ININ SSENIORSEENIORORRSS Serving area seniors for work assessments/functional facelift or reconstructive sur- over two decades! capacity evals gery,” said Hoffmeier. Speech Therapy — dys- She said the biggest bang phasia/dysphagia, articulation for your buck involves the • MEDICARE ADVANTAGE HMO - Drug Rx Plans issues, pediatric therapy, cog- combination of a few small • Medicare Supplemental Insurance nitive therapy, electrical stim- treatments, with no down-time, • LIFE INSURANCE ulation for swallowing followed by an at-home skin NICK MCLAUGHLIN Athletic trainers (ATCs) care regimen to maintain your 432-2011 Give us a call. 814-432-3365 provide comprehensive cov- investment in healthy skin. Clarion Rehab staff members who offer aquatic erage to four local high An example for the treat- www.CynthiaCauvelSeniorInsurancePA.comauvelSeniorInsuranceeneniorInsurenioio nsu ancePananceePA.coPAA.c. omm therapy at the Clarion YMCA clinic include, from schools: Clarion, Clarion- left, Justin Radaker, Kaitlyn Kline, Seth Babington Limestone, Keystone and and Benjamin Crawford. North Clarion. Oil City Eye Associates is ‘a practice with purpose’ boy who was wearing lenses name, Oil City Eye Associ- This article was submitted for the first time. ates. by the company. The Dr. Kennedy continued to child’s serve alongside Dr. Adsit until For many years and multi- reaction his retirement in November of ple generations, 9 E. First St. to being 2020. His legacy of quality Eddie St. Clair, PT, DPT Shaina OBrien, PT, DPT in Oil City has been “work able to care, knowledgeable treat- home” to members of the Ken- Specialty: Arm, Hand, Specialty: Women’s see clear- ment of eye conditions and Board Certified Hand Therapist nedy family, who faithfully ly was so disease, and family atmo- Health offered quality vision care astound- sphere are carried on by Dr. products and personalized op- ing that Adsit and his associates. tometric services to Oil City she knew and the surrounding areas. Mission of hope she “We exist to shine the light Growth and opportunity wanted Dr. Jenny Tran and love of Jesus Christ by Dr. Jenny Tran joined Dr. to be a meeting people’s physical Scott Kennedy’s Oil City and part of helping people with needs” is the business’ mis- Titusville offices in 2017, im- their vision. sion statement. mediately becoming a loved She is described by her Oil City Eye Associates and trusted addition to his staff and patients as profes- specializes in professional practice. sional, kind, humble, person- Jessica Collins, PT, DPT Beth Carr, PT, DPT Kevin Cheung, PT, DPT eyecare and beautiful eyewear Specialty: Spine Vertigo, Specialty: Leg Balance, Dr. Tran was born and raised able, approachable, a terrific customized to meet people’s Specialty: Parkingson’s in the city of Calgary, Alberta, educator, a talented eyewear vision needs. EMG Nerve Testing Musculoskeletal Ultrasound Program Canada. While in high school, stylist, and team player. It is our pleasure and pas- she worked at an optometrist’s In 2018, Dr. Kennedy’s sion to set apart a percentage Physical Therapy Services in Both Locations office. It was there that she de- practice was purchased by Dr. of our business profits to reach cided to pursue optometry as a Christopher Adsit of Vision out to people in need and help career. Her “aha” moment came Source Meadville and given a them have safer, more fulfill- ALSO AT FRANKLIN as she fitted glasses for a little beautiful facelift and a new ing lives. • Diagnostic testing EMG/NCS (nerve testing) • Musculoskeletal Ultrasound 1263 Elk St • Franklin, PA 16323 • Harness system for balance training 814-437-3674 • Certified Parkinson’s Program ALSO AT SENECA is pleased to announce the addition of • Cardiopulmonary reconditioning for individuals Terry Castleman, CRNP who have problems with movement due Terry has joined the Franklin office with to shortness of breath Heather McKeel, CRNP, Dean Spencer, M.D., weakness and fatigue. and Candyce Lucian, D.O. • Yoga Based Treatment • Women’s Health www.westparkrehab.com and www.westparkdiagnostics.com 2 Locations 571 Pone Lane, Franklin 3233 St. Rt. 257, Seneca Now Accepting New Patients. Call for an appointment. 437-6191 493-8631 E-10 – THE DERRICK. / The News-Herald Friday, February 19, 2021 Adagio Health adds mobile health unit pensed on-site), breast and of service, Adagio Health is This article was submitted cervical cancer screening, the trusted partner in care for by the company. natural family planning, preg- thousands of patients and cli- nancy testing, STD testing ents in Pennsylvania and West Venango County is now and treatment, HIV testing, Virginia. home to two Adagio Health PrEP (pre-exposure prophy- Services are provided at medical offices. The first is the laxis to protect against HIV), low or no cost to those who long-time local health provid- infertility services, flu shots qualify, and Adagio Health er’s medical office located at (beginning this fall), basic accepts most insurances in- 3292 State Route 257. The health screenings such as cho- cluding Medicaid. second is a brand new Mobile lesterol and high blood pres- Its services are focused on Health Unit which, while ga- sure, adult immunizations, health care, nutrition and edu- raged in Venango County, can and more. cation. more commonly be found Reproductive health ser- In addition to the health parked and providing care in vices are available regardless care services listed above, 12 different rural Pennsylvania of insurance status or ability Adagio Health also offers ba- counties four days a week. to pay. sic but essential adult preven- The Mobile Health Unit is a Adagio Health’s new Mobile Health Unit will provide services in rural counties More information about tive care including immuniza- 36-foot-long vehicle equipped in northwestern Pennsylvania. Mobile Health Unit schedul- tions and screenings along with a reception area, exam ing and partnerships is avail- with tobacco cessation coun- room, lab and restroom. areas where access to health Special safety protocols Along with serving resi- able by contacting Erin Wal- seling and education. Clinical staff include a cer- care can be limited,” said are in place to keep patients dents of Venango County, the lace, mobile health coordina- Nutrition services include tified registered nurse practi- president and CEO BJ Leber. and staff safe during the unit also travels to these Penn- tor, by email at mobilehealth@ WIC in five Pennsylvania tioner and two medical assis- “Now, those residents don’t COVID-19 pandemic. sylvania counties: Armstrong, adagiohealth.org or by going counties, and a Power Up tants. have to drive long distances to In addition to a modern and Cameron, Clarion, Clearfield, online to https://adagiohealth. Snap-ED program funded by On board, patients are pro- access reproductive and pre- comfortable exam room, Ada- Elk, Forest, Jefferson, McK- org/mobilehealth. the USDA. vided with a wide range of ventive health care. Instead, gio Health’s Mobile Unit of- ean, Mercer, Potter and War- In the meantime, Adagio Adagio Health is funded health care services along Adagio Health is coming to fers an on-board lab for blood ren. Health continues to offer local by the state and federal gov- with referrals to other provid- them,” Leber said. draws and screenings, and the Available services include in-person care at its Seneca ernment, local foundation ers as needed. Women, men and teens are entire vehicle is ADA compli- family planning and repro- medical office as well as tele- partners, individual donors Services are billed to insur- eligible to receive services ant. A lift system for mobility ductive health care, annual health video visits. and corporate/community ance companies or Medicaid, through Adagio Health Mo- assistance is available. exams, birth control (dis- With nearly half a century partnerships. and for patients who don’t have bile Health. insurance or who are underin- Services are confidential, sured, reproductive health care and patients can expect to re- is provided at low or no cost. ceive excellent care in a com- “We are proud to be ex- fortable, welcoming setting, Wellness Health Options expands offerings panding our presence in rural Leber said. quency specific micro-current therapy. Carrasco has strong ties to the area as This article was submitted Needles may or may not be used, Ganoe a Clarion native who graduated from `ôbdfsbo=prmmloq=moldo^j by the company. said. Clarion Area High School and Clarion Ganoe is a licensed acupuncturist University. She earned her ND from In 2020, Wellness Health Options an- through the Pennsylvania State Board of Trinity School of Natural Health. Car- ebîqe=moljlqflk nounced an expansion of the services it Medicine and holds a Diplomate of Acu- rasco is based in Virginia and makes offers to its already extensive list. One puncture Certification through the Na- herself available to clients face-to-face fkJeljb=mboplkî=`ôb new offering is testing for food sensitivi- tional Certification Commission for Acu- one week per month to expand the op- ties in the form of skin rashes, headaches puncture and Oriental Medicine. He tions of the Clarion Community and sur- and chronic intestinal diseases, causing a works out of wellness centers in Cran- rounding areas. She offers a 15-minute qo^kpmloq^qflk wide variety of illnesses. berry and Meadville as well. phone consultation to see if a naturopa- The test is in a convenient, take-home, For people who have never tried acu- thy is a good fit for people. jbaf`ôb=`lrkpbifkd do-it-yourself kit and measures the sensi- puncture but are interested in finding out For over 30 years, Wellness Health tivity to as many as 132 foods, colorings more about it, Ganoe offers free 15- Options has offered alternatives and total eÉäéáåÖ=íç=ãÉÉí=íÜÉ=åÉÉÇë= and additives spanning all major food minute consultations. wellness to the community. çÑ=`ä~êáçå=`çìåíó=êÉëáÇÉåíë= lj_rapj^k groups. In August, Wellness Health Options The many options of massage includ- Acupuncturist Vince Ganoe returned welcomed Leigh Carrasco, a naturopath- ing lymph drainage by vacuum help to ~ÖÉÇ=SMH=C=íÜÉáê=Å~êÉÖáîÉêë to provide acupuncture and related ser- ic doctor, who sees clients of all ages deal with all the everchanging pressures mboplk=`bkqboba=`lrkpbifkd vices starting in June. who are facing any physical and/or emo- and stressors of today’s world. For ar- UNQJOOSJQSQM Ganoe has been in practice since 2014 tional challenges. She uses a variety of thritic clients, paraffin baths, hot stone eljb=abifsboba=jbîp and works with individuals to help give tools and services that suggest specific massage, Bach remedies and CBD oil NS=sÉåíìêÉ=i~åÉ relief to a variety of disorders and symp- vitamins and minerals, the presence of are offered to provide relief as well as `ä~êáçåI=m^=NSONQ toms, including pain, depression, anxi- unwanted bacteria, biofield injuries and other remedies and products. Thermog- ïïïKÅä~êáçå~ÖáåÖKÅçã molqb`qfsb=pbosf`bp ety, infertility, and allergies; to overcome inherited genetic mutations to name a raphy done on-site by Pittsburgh’s Three drug, alcohol, food and sugar addictions; few. Treatment may include herbs, diet, Rivers Mammography provides an alter- and to quit smoking. Different tech- homeopathy, Bach Flowers, homeopro- native to traditional X-Rays and mam- R=pbkflo=`bkqbop niques are used in addition to acupunc- phylaxis, vitamins, minerals, conversa- mograms. Other services include Reiki, `ä~êáçå===håçñ===iÉÉéÉê===oáãÉêëÄìêÖ===kÉï=_ÉíÜäÉÜÉã ture such as motor and trigger point re- tion, frequency therapy, mud packing, aromatherapy, permanent makeup and lease (dry needling), cupping and fre- breathing techniques and exercise. reflexology. Friday, February 19, 2021 THE DERRICK. / The News-Herald – E-11

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Experts at UPMC Orthopaedic Care are pioneering minimally invasive surgeries, and we offer personalized treatment plans and same-day surgery to get you home and moving sooner.

IT’S YOUR ANKLE, YOUR ELBOW, YOUR HAND. AND NOW IT’S YOUR MOVE.

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UPMC is affiliated with the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine. E-12 – THE DERRICK. / The News-Herald Friday, February 19, 2021 Oakwood Heights welcomes news of vaccine This article was submitted by the network.

When news of the effectiveness of the two COVID-19 vaccines — one from Pfizer and the other from Moderna — was announced late last year, the nation breathed a collective sigh of relief. Having two weapons in the fight against the pandemic that has claimed the lives of nearly 400,000 Americans and wreaked havoc on our economy gave our country a fight- ing chance to begin to reduce the spread of the COVID-19 virus. At Oakwood Heights, a leading skilled nursing community and part of the Presbyterian SeniorCare Network, the largest aging services provider in western Pennsylvania, the news that employees and residents of long-term care communities would be the first to receive the vaccine was a welcomed relief. “At Oakwood Heights, we’ve come to refer to our team members as Heroes with Heart,” said Martha Shreffler, administrator and executive director of Oakwood Heights. ‘‘... we’ve come to “Since the beginning of the pandemic, refer to our team they have adapted to the multitude of members as changes in protocols and procedures to Heroes with Heart.’’ keep our residents Martha Shreffler safe. Even when there executive director, Oakwood Heights was little known about the virus, and fear was embracing our country, our team members stepped up for our residents. Now that the COVID-19 vaccine is being administered to residents and team members, we are hopeful that both vaccines will soon be available more broadly,” Shref- Oakwood Heights executive director Martha Shref- Theme days have been a good way to add a burst fer said. fler stands with a “Heroes Work Here” sign that of fun for residents and staff at Oakwood Heights. Adapting to an emerging pandemic required the implemen- shows support for the essential workers on staff at Two workers dressed as Batman and Robin for tation of a wide variety of COVID-19 precautionary measures and a close examination of policies and procedures and sub- the facility. one such occasion. stantive changes across each of Presbyterian SeniorCare’s high-touch areas like handrails, elevator buttons, door handles they haven’t been able to touch or hug one another for nearly communities, including Oakwood Heights. and surfaces. A Clorox 360 machine provides added protection a year,” she said. “We are so fortunate to be a part of a larger organization,” by sanitizing soft and hard surfaces throughout the building. An important element throughout the pandemic at Oakwood Shreffler explained. “From the very beginning of the pandem- Outdoor visitation stations were created so that residents and Heights has been the flexibility of the entire staff. ic, we had access to the Network’s COVID-19 Task Force. We families could safely visit with a protective barrier between “Every day, our team members show how much they care benefitted greatly from their guidance and diligence in keeping them. When county positivity rates were less than 10 percent, for our residents,” said Shreffler. “Working in a pandemic up with all of the emerging protocols coming from governing we were permitted to conduct indoor visitation in a common means that you have to do more and know more. Our team bodies like the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, area where masking and social distancing were assured. members have made so many changes, not just to adapt to Pennsylvania Department of Health and Department of Health One of the most critical components to ensure team member COVID-19 protocols and guidance. Many team members have and Human Services. They evaluated all of our procedures and and resident safety was making sure there was access to all of altered the way they live in an effort to minimize the risk of issued ongoing changes, all designed to keep our residents the necessary personal protective equipment such as coveted bringing COVID-19 into our community. This virus is so in- engaged and as safe as possible,” she said. and hard-to-get N95 masks, face shields, gloves, gowns and sidious and tricky because you can be completely without Knowing how vulnerable older adults are to the virus, visi- protective eyewear. Early in the pandemic, the Network’s pro- symptoms but test positive. I’m proud of our team members tation restrictions were put into place in early March, weeks curement team identified a source for these supplies to keep a and so appreciative of the support and understanding we have before the majority of other long-term care providers did the steady inventory that could be accessed, and that inventory has received from family members. Everyone at Oakwood Heights same. Screening stations were established to assess all team been maintained throughout the pandemic. knows that caring for the Greatest Generation is an honor and members and necessary agency personnel entering the build- Presbyterian SeniorCare Network is known as a Dementia a privilege,” she said. ing. Infection control measures were enhanced to include a Care Center of Excellence because of its deep expertise and A major element that contributes to team member satisfac- multitude of elements such as increased frequency of cleaning decades of experience and innovation. More than 25 years ago, tion at Oakwood Heights and across the Presbyterian Senior- Presbyterian SeniorCare Network developed the nationally Care Network is its person-centered culture. “Our person- recognized Woodside Place of Oakmont, one of the nation’s centered culture and team-driven environment distinguishes first residential communities specifically designed to meet the Oakwood Heights not only as a great place for care, but also as physical, mental and social needs of persons living with Al- a uniquely different employer,” noted Scot Henry, director of zheimer’s and related dementias. Based on this nationally rec- human resources. ognized model of dementia care, Oakwood Heights is serving “It’s why we have such a strong focus on creating and main- 32 older adults who are benefitting from this program. taining a great place to work,” said Henry. Caring for individuals with dementia during a pandemic “We know that the first 90 days of employment can make all poses a variety of unique challenges. “They don’t understand the difference between having someone stay or leave. Our orien- COVID-19 or isolating from one another,” Shreffler explained. tation program ensures that every new hire feels welcomed, un- “We have to be very creative with social barriers, and we clean derstands what’s expected, and has a sense of empowerment in surfaces much more than other communities, because our resi- order to begin making valuable contributions quickly,” he said. dents with dementia need to walk around. Because they don’t Additionally, new team members are partnered with a men- understand the need for frequent handwashing, we use a lot of tor for at least the first 90 days of employment to help build the hand sanitizer. We learn from our residents, because their connections and relationships that will ensure success. needs are unique, and we make changes in protocols and pro- Relationships also were built between members of the com- cedures to meet their needs and to make their environment as munity and Oakwood Heights residents through the Network’s safe as possible,” Shreffler said. Rays of Sunshine initiative developed early in the pandemic. The use of technology has been a welcome tool at Oakwood Through Rays of Sunshine, individuals are invited to send well Heights throughout the pandemic. Team members continue to wishes to residents and team members in the form of cards, use iPads and platforms like FaceTime, Skype and Google Duo letters, drawings, signs and even videos. Thousands of Rays of to connect residents with family members, especially during Sunshine have been received across the Network. To send your winter months when outdoor visitation stations present a much own Rays of Sunshine message, visit srcare.org/RaysOfSun- greater challenge. “Our residents have shown us how incredi- shine for more information. Residents at Oakwood Heights stayed engaged bly resilient they are,” said Shreffler. “They’ve adapted to the The year 2020 ushered in a new mantra at Oakwood Heights and safely socially distanced through activities virtual visits, and those visits provide a level of reassurance to and across the Presbyterian SeniorCare Network: “Together, like Hat Day Doorway Bingo. families about the wellbeing of their loved one even though We are Stronger than COVID.” Clarview, Country Springs work to keep residents safe each other. traditional retirement commu- able to pull out of the outbreak apy for stroke rehab, cardiac respite care, tracheotomy care, This article was submitted Country Springs installed a nities and other traditional and return to some normalcy recovery, joint replacement, dialysis management, hospice by the company. gazebo with a barrier to allow adult residential options. for the residents and staff. fracture care, swallowing dif- care, Restorative Nursing Pro- outdoor visitations and was able Living at Country Springs Clarview staff and resi- ficulty, post-surgical rehab, grams, complex medical ser- SLIGO — Clarview Nurs- to create a safe indoor space that is a relief to many, not to be dents have also received their injury recovery, and illness vices, onsite physician assis- ing and Rehabilitation Center will be utilized for visits when concerned with the common vaccinations, and will contin- debilitation rehab. tant and wound care. and Country Springs Personal the guidance permits. day-to-day duties they per- ue to work hard to keep every- Along with the short-term The beautiful Clarview Care are not alone in the angst The staff has gone above formed for decades at their one healthy and safe. rehab suite, Clarview contin- Campus offers multiple out- of the pandemic. and beyond to ensure the resi- homes, and may now relax The Clarview center offers ues to offer long-term care door leisure areas, wheelchair The staff and administra- dents are being taken care of and enjoy something special, its Clarview Country Rehab nursing services to the local accessible catch and release tion has shown their apprecia- physically and emotionally. peace of mind. Suite. communities and surrounding fishing pond and the Veterans tion to their residents, families Country Springs staff and The 24-bed unit is com- counties. Health care services Courtyard. It truly is a relaxing and the community at large for residents have received vacci- Clarview Nursing and Re- prised of semi-private and pri- include IV therapy, skin care, and beautiful rural campus. their continued support during nations and will continue to habilitation Center has also vate rooms that are designed this unprecedented time. work diligently to keep every- been working hard to provide to meet the needs of residents Country Springs has strived one healthy and safe. the care needed during this 18 and older. to keep their “family” safe During 2020, Country pandemic in a safe, healthy The admissions team at and healthy and is following Springs received a Quality environment, also following Clarview can provide pre-sur- all guidance and regulations Annual Survey from the Bu- all the regulations from the gical planning to confirm from the state Department of reau of Human Services Li- governing bodies of long-term clinical and financial needs Health, Center for Disease censing. care, the state Department of are met, to ensure a smooth Control, Department of Hu- Country Springs was estab- Health, CDC, and the Centers transition from the hospital to man Services and other gov- lished on the Clarview Cam- for Medicare and Medicaid Clarview. erning bodies. pus in 1996 and continues to Services. Clarview offers seven- It has been a struggle for offer a family-like environ- With the help of the Na- days-a-week aggressive inpa- the residents and their fami- ment for their residents. It was tional Guard a few months tient and outpatient physical, lies not being able to be with developed as an alternative to ago, the nursing home was occupational and speech ther- Keep Lungs Healthy SENECA PRIMARY CARE Weekly Our lungs thrive with movement and activity. During normal breathing, our lungs usually Celebrating Over 20 Years Health Tip operate at about 50% of their capacity. That’s not really enough to keep them at optimal strength and Dr. Savita Joneja function. Moderate-intensity exercise is one way to Board Certified strengthen your lungs and increase lung capacity. Primary Care Simple deep-breathing exercises are another way to improve lung capacity and function. Practice good posture; it gives your lungs more room to Welcoming expand. Stay hydrated; this keeps the mucous Corinna Deeter, NP-C lining of the lungs thin, improving lung function. Laugh often; this exercises your lungs and • Same Day Appointments abdominal muscles. Maintain a healthy weight; • Most Insurance Accepted excess weight reduces lung capacity. • Open Monday - Friday by Gary Clerici SHINGLES VACCINES AVAILABLE! FREE LOCAL DELIVERY 437-9111

Now Accepting New Patients Mon.-Fri. 9AM-5:30PM Saturday 814-677-7338 • 3529 State Rt. 257, SENECA 102 E. Atlantic Ave., Franklin, PA. 8:30AM-12:30PM Friday, February 19, 2021 THE DERRICK. / The News-Herald – E-13 Foundation supports UPMC hospital Northwest Hospital Foundation credits community relationships for helping it meet needs

This article was submitted by the foundation.

Even against the backdrop of a national health crisis, the power of philanthropy continues to ensure that the highest level of care is available to everyone in our region at UPMC Northwest. The generosity and compassion from the community ensured the Northwest Hospital Founda- tion realized its goal of service in 2020. The foundation’s mission is to secure and allocate resources for funding projects that exclusively support UPMC Northwest, helping the community find hope, healing, and access to high- quality health care. A radiology tech student uses a SMART board in Amid a pandemic, the the classroom located at Seneca Place. foundation never wavered in its mission to support the hos- grams, enabling instructors to The towering trees were pital with contributions to review, revise, save, and dis- especially comforting for pa- projects and technologies that tribute diagrams and annotat- tients who were alone due to enhance the knowledge and ed images to students. COVID restrictions, and for clinical capabilities of UPMC Assuring the community’s countless health care heroes Northwest hospital providers safety: Treating high-risk who worked long hours away and ongoing support for area pregnancies from their families. patients. One employee commented, Recently the foundation “When I came to work this “The generosity of the provided $11,819 to purchase community, which has been morning, it made my day to portable fetal monitoring see these. They are beautiful expressed in so many ways of technology that previously contributions, has allowed and with all that’s going on in was not available at the hospi- the world right now we need Northwest Hospital Founda- tal. tion to more fully support the beautiful. We really needed In addition to recognizing nology, programs, and servic- lee Obenrader, Dr. Linda Ol- The new Philips Avalon this. Thank you to whomever the exceptional health care es for the community. It also mstead, Linda Schell, Pamela hospital and the people it CL monitors are cable-free serves. We owe a great debt of donated them.” professionals in a permanent has a proud record of 100% Watkins and David White. devices that enable mothers to and significant way, it also board support each year. In addition to the board of gratitude to our supporters for move freely during labor and Recognizing the community helping us improve the health effort: Grateful supports the work they do, Foundation board members directors, there are nearly 250 pursue flexible birthing op- from helping purchase the lat- are selected for their outstand- corporation members serving of the patients at UPMC tions. The monitors provide patient program Northwest,” said Theresa Ed- est technologies to funding ing commitment to the com- as ambassadors, educating continuous wireless tracking The foundation responded continuing education. der, executive director of the of fetal heart rate, along with to requests for a meaningful munity, to health care, and to others and promoting the foundation. Brochures are in hospital philanthropy. foundation. maternal noninvasive blood way to thank a Northwest waiting areas and information New and established dona- pressure and oxygen satura- hospital health care profes- They represent some of the New corporation members tions allowed the coundation is available on the founda- most engaged leaders in the in 2020 include Laura Blake, tion. Transducer options en- sional or department through tion’s website. to provide nearly $500,000 able providers to measure fe- the creation of the grateful region, working to advance Jill Foys, Hope Lineman, Nate last year to assist UPMC tal movement, uterine activity, patient program. Heading the community our philanthropic partner- Neely, Nicole Snyder, Barbara Northwest with capital im- and uterine pressure, among Grateful patients can make response: Foundation ships. The board includes Rod Stehle, Tom Stehle, David provements, medical technol- other vital variables, while a gift in their honor that will leadership Griffin, Brian Durniok, Frank Wagner and M. Suzanne Wil- ogy and services, patient and mothers are free to move support the work they do and The foundation is governed Gill Jr., Nancy Guth, Denise liams. employee education, and criti- about. in return, they receive your by a board of directors who Jones, Joseph Keebler, Hope The foundation operates cal patient needs. “This new technology is message of thanks and receive are committed to ensuring Lineman, Ashley McCauley, with a staff of two, including Here are some of the high- expanding the birthing op- a special pin to wear as a to- that UPMC Northwest stays Michael Morrison, Nathan Edder and Kay Ensle, an ex- lights from 2020: tions that we can offer to ex- ken of gratitude. on the leading edge of tech- Neely, Thomas Neely, Merra- ecutive assistant. Ensuring the community’s pecting moms,” said Cheri health: A well-trained Siverling, director of the Fam- hospital staff ily Birthing Center at UPMC What began as a discussion Northwest. among physicians about how “Mothers aren’t tethered to to maintain a continuum of a bed with wires and can health care quality developed move about the room or hall into a proposal for supporting or use a birthing ball. We can the education pursuits of hos- expand the birthing options pital staff. available to expecting moth- The Medical Staff Scholar- ers while ensuring their com- ship Fund utilizes a $25,000 plete safety. Ultimately we endowment to award annual believe it will contribute to scholarships to hospital em- fewer C-sections and more ployees who have been ac- normal, vaginal births,” said cepted to, or are enrolled in, Siverling. an educational institution of- Supporting the community fering a health care curricu- needs: Patient Hardship lum and are working toward a Fund and uncompensated degree or certificate related to care support providing direct patient care. This past year — more Scholarships will ensure a than any other — has proven continuous supply of educated it is essential that the founda- professionals for the hospital. tion be prepared to meet ur- “This new fund is a way to gent needs of patients in crisis serve both the community and situations. The Patient Hard- our colleagues and co-work- ship Fund helps to better meet ers,” said Dr. Randy Boggess, the needs of vulnerable com- president of Medical Affairs munity members and assist at UPMC Northwest. them in regaining their “It’s a means to ensuring health. the availability of future health This emergency fund is for care providers in our commu- patients who are uninsured or nity, and a way to make an under-insured, and without important difference in the the means to pay for minor lives of these providers to- expenses related to their care. day,” he said. The fund assists patients in “Our medical staff is ex- obtaining prescriptions, dura- cited about the fund, and ble medical equipment, sup- we’re looking at additional plies, or services they cannot ways to make a long-term dif- financially afford upon dis- ference in the region we charge. serve,” Boggess added. More than $227,000 helped Helping the community over 100 patients who needed adapt: smart technology assistance paying medical debt last year. As hospitals adjust to a Uncompensated care assis- new normal during the pan- tance remains one of the foun- demic, the need to invest in dation’s most important ser- meant to do. Connections like these are just some of state-of-the-art technology to vices, and its value is magni- accommodate patients and fied during these times of the ways that our continuum of care and services are staff becomes critical. economic and public health Adapting to COVID guide- stress. making aging easier® for you. lines, radiology students en- “It’s an act of kindness that rolled in the UPMC North- can make a substantial differ- west Rad Tech Program con- ence in someone’s life,” Ed- tinue to learn remotely and der said. in-person, ensuring that se- OakwoodHeightsSrCare.org niors graduate on time during Lighting the community the pandemic. Remote educa- spirit: Christmas trees OAKWOOD HEIGHTS tion was made possible by the UPMC Northwest was a 814.676.8686 hospital’s introduction of the little brighter during the holi- Sharp Aquos SMART Board, day season because of the the result of a $20,757 Foun- generosity of a local couple. Explore careers at dation grant. A quartet of 20-foot-high, EOE CareersAtSrCare.org The SMART board allows lighted Christmas trees were for enhanced integration of erected on the hospital images, annotations, and dia- grounds. E-14 – THE DERRICK. / The News-Herald Friday, February 19, 2021 Seneca Novacare clinic keeps its doors open Employees were deemed to be essential workers through pandemic ployees being concerned This article was submitted about being at work, there by the company. were new safety guidelines put into effect and changed Novacare Rehabilitation, frequently, Stover said. located in the Seneca Square, The guidelines included provides Physical Therapy screening all employees, deliv- services to local residents. ery people and patients who The clinic remained open the entered the facility. Mask wear- entire year through the coro- ing, taking temperatures, in- navirus pandemic as the staff creased use of hand sanitizers, was deemed to be essential hand washing and disinfecting workers. all equipment anyone touched At the beginning of 2020, became second nature. in January and February, the Although most of this clinic was unusually busy. cleaning had always been These two months, historical- done in the past, it was ramped ly, tend to be the slowest of up to a new level and caused the year but, in 2020, that was increase work for the staff, not the case. Stover noted. “The staff, de- Fortunately, because of spite their own fears of con- having a busy first quarter, tracting the disease, did a fan- this productive time carried tastic job of keeping the virus the clinic through a slower out of the clinic,” she said. Staff members at the Seneca Novacare Rehabilitation include, from left, Marcus Tress, Carolyn Sottiaux, April and May, according to To date, no one has con- Anna Lehnortt and Ellen Stover. clinic manager Ellen Stover. tracted the disease from being After business slowed in in the Seneca Novacare clinic. new services being provided, Carolyn Sottiaux returned Orsino who assists frequently and sprains, headaches and pa- the spring, the clinic spiked “That says a great deal about the clinic was able to justify to the patient services special- and has worked in the physical tients with balance issues and back up in business once again the efforts the staff has put hiring a third full-time em- ist position in January after a therapy field since 1964. who are at risk for falling. and remained busy through- forth to keep our patients and ployee. Marcus Tress, a phys- lengthy illness in 2019. Ev- On the other end of the In January, the clinic re- out the remainder of the year. each other safe,” Stover said. ical therapist assistant, joined eryone was glad to have her spectrum, Alaina Miczikus ceived a renovation with a By the end of 2020, the In addition to the changes the staff on Nov. 1. return as the first face the pa- and Abigail Schall just began new coat of paint and new clinic finished with a spec- made within the clinic, new He brings a wide skill set, tients see when coming in the their careers this year as phys- carpet. The clinic looks new tacular year, Stover said. The services were developed to has an interest in pursuing front door. She is skilled at ical therapist assistants and and is spacious and colorful increase in business was un- aid patients who were too further education in acupunc- helping patients with insur- also help as needed in the with both private and open usual and unexpected, as frightened to come into the ture and brings a level of ances and scheduling as well clinic. All bring a unique skill areas for treatment. many other physical therapy clinic for treatment. Remote comedy and humor to the as much more. set to the clinic, Stover said. Patients are able to social clinics in the area reduced telehealth and home physical clinic, Stover said. In addition to Tress, the Stover continues to be the distance and all staff wear hours or closed due to the therapy services were devel- Anna Lehnortt, who is also clinic also hired Laura center manager and physical masks and face shields if in COVID-19 pandemic. oped to give patients the op- a physical therapist assistant, Churchill and Rhonda Sheffer therapist at the Novacare clinic close contact with a patient When the coronavirus portunity to receive treatment continues to bring her skills to as casual patient service spe- in Seneca and will celebrate 30 for a prolonged period. started to be seen in the area from the safety of their own the clinic. She has 13 years of cialists to assist with the front years of experience in the field “With the right to choose in March, the company fol- homes, when appropriate. experience and keeps the clin- desk duties. in May. She is also a certified where you receive physical lowed the guidelines of the Because of the clinic expe- ic running smoothly. She has “We have been blessed to athletic trainer. Stover is skilled therapy the staff at Novacare Centers for Disease Control riencing increased growth had the challenge, like so be able to employ several other at treating orthopedic and Rehabilitation in Seneca are and the state Department of throughout the year, the extra many others, of balancing physical therapist assistants sports injuries, post surgical proud that so many individuals Health. cleaning and screening tasks work with home schooling who assist when needed,” said conditions, neck and back decide to come to our facility In addition to many em- assigned to the staff, and the her children. Stover. One of these is Marilyn pain, concussions, fractures for treatment,” Stover said. Resident, staff safety remains Hartle Dental to move No. 1 priority for Wesbury demand for critical care and/or new pa- This article was submitted tients. In return, MMC provided Wes- by the organization. bury with a multidisciplinary team that included the ability to consult with a For senior lifestyle and health care Pulmonologist and the availability of service organizations like Wesbury, the onsite respiratory therapists, nurse prac- environment changed very quickly as titioners, and infectious disease special- cases of COVID-19 increased around the ists, increasing the care that the COVID country last year, especially at nursing unit offers. This collaboration is directly care facilities. in line with the mission of both organiza- From the start, Wesbury faced restrictions and is especially relevant to Wes- tions and guidelines being put into place bury’s 102-year-old Methodist roots, that were previously unprecedented. whose purpose was quoted by its found- From Wesbury’s perspective, resident er, John Wesley: “Do all the good you and staff safety was the number one pri- can, by all the means you can, for all the ority as we made sure we followed the people you can.” evolving guidance and direction from the Even amid this global pandemic, when Centers for Disease Control, Centers for the Department of Health came in for Medicare and Medicaid Services, the rived to take their places, it was immedi- their annual inspection, they left Grace state Department of Human Services and ately apparent that the response was tre- Rehabilitation and Health Center citing the state Department of Health. mendous. Cars began forming a line an zero deficiencies. Wesbury also main- Early on, Wesbury continued activi- hour before we scheduled to open and, tained a 5-star rating with the Centers for through the day, waited as much as an Hartle Dental will move to this home at 1339 ties and visitations that met all guidelines Medicaid and are ranked an impressive Liberty St., Franklin, later this year. The prac- working diligently to ensure families and hour and 45 minutes to purchase dinners seventh Best Nursing Home in Pennsyl- residents could stay connected through at the minimal-contact pickup station. vania, according to Newsweek’s Recent tice, which is currently located at 415 13th St., various safe avenues like virtual activi- We sold out of Chicken BBQ dinners by Best Nursing Homes 2021 Report. For will receive patients at its new location by the ties and video calls and, as restriction 4 p.m. and couldn’t be more grateful for the report, Newsweek partnered with the end of June. Ryan T. Hartle is the dentist at the eased, offered socially distant visita- the love and support we received from respected global data research firm practice. He offers general dentistry, cosmetic tions. the public. One supporter pulling in said, Statista to establish a ranking of “Best “I have been waiting for quite a while, dentistry and dental implants. There are six Typically, summertime is an extreme- Nursing Homes” by analyzing data from full-time workers at the company. ly busy time at Wesbury, filled with fes- but it’s worth it to help Wesbury because over 10,000 nursing homes in the U.S. tive outdoor activities and annual events. what you are doing for our seniors dur- The 400 “best” nursing homes in the 20 As things began to be canceled every- ing this time is priceless.” That said it most populous states are published in the where, Wesbury considered how to main- all. report. tain safety yet still raise the funds that As the weather began to get chilly, we Despite the focus on COVID-19, Family Fitness marks 6th year many of its residents rely on. The Wes- had felt very good about keeping the vi- things did move forward in the arenas of Family Fitness marked its and weightlifting. bury Foundation went to work, modify- rus out of the Wesbury community. For Wesbury programs and services to the sixth year in business in Snyder said the gym, which ing the normal, re-creating the wheel, eight months, we had not seen a positive public, setting up some exciting things downtown Oil City last year. is open 24/7, has spin cycles, and made all of Wesbury’s traditional case. That changed at the end of October, for 2021. Owned by Chris and Belin- treadmills and ellipticals for summer events possible. starting with one staff positive case. As Anyone who has driven past the da Snyder and their two sons, cardio workouts and Olympic Probably the most significant endeav- we all know, COVID-19 is extremely Meadville Dairy Queen on Route 322 Austin and Connor, the family bench plates and bars for those or was to hold the 31st annual Chicken contagious, and the senior population is (Conneaut Lake Road) and caught sight gym offers its members total who want to “pump iron.” BBQ modified as a drive-through take- the most vulnerable. Through the end of of the former Day’s Inn knows that this access to exercise equipment “We want to keep the gym out event for the safety of residents and 2020, as we saw cases rise throughout corner has been taking on an exciting on a schedule that works for available to people so they guests. Going into the day, we didn’t the region, there was an increase in posi- new look. them. can meet their health goals,” know what to expect. It was overcast and tive cases among Wesbury residents and This project is the region’s newest The gym opened in May of Snyder said. humid as we donned our gloves, masks, staff. one- and two-bedroom apartment com- 2014 at 308 Seneca St. with But he’s also interested in and face shields. We had set up a safe Even at the peak of the positive cases, plex designed for active seniors ages 55 Chris Snyder and Mike Ca- supporting the community process, advertised, and planned for the challenges that the Wesbury commu- and over. Owned and operated by Wes- naan as the owners. The two and does so by being involved 1,500 meals…would it be a success? It nity experienced were never an impedi- bury, Vernon Square’s Phase One, con- shared a passion for exercise with several charities. didn’t take long to find out. As staff ar- ment to what it was able to accomplish sisting of the pool, fitness center, lobby, together — while keeping the care, com- and 15 apartments, is ready for move-in. fort, and emotional well-being of Wes- Wesbury is optimistic about what the bury residents the highest priority. future holds. At the year’s start, many Petruso Hearing changes ownership After Wesbury had opened its COVID residents and staff consented to take the unit to care for positive residents, Wes- that was started in 1973. The COVID-19 vaccine, a decision that will This article was submitted family remains dedicated to bury and Meadville Medical Center be- protect not only those in the Wesbury by the company. gan a collaboration to benefit Wesbury providing exceptional person- community but also those in the greater alized care for those with residents, MMC patients and support community. R.W. Petruso Hearing and those in the community. Collaboratively, hearing difficulties. Wesbury, located at 31 N. Park Ave. in Audiology announced the R.W. Petruso Hearing and Wesbury and MMC are providing a ser- Meadville, is a mission-driven, not-for- transition of ownership from vice greatly needed to support families Audiology has 11 office loca- profit organization committed to provid- Bob and Arlene Petruso to the tions in western Pennsylvania affected by the pandemic in the region. ing compassionate care and services to next generation. With a high county positivity rate, the along with an office in Ohio area seniors. Five Star Rated and cele- The Petrusos’ sons, Rob and one in West Virginia. hospital needed a facility where they brating 103 years of service to the re- Petruso II, a doctor of audiol- could safely discharge recovering pa- They offer hearing evalua- gion, Wesbury offers a full continuum of ogy, and Travis Petruso, a tions, industrial hearing tests tients for extended care, freeing much- aging services, including independent hearing instrument specialtist, needed hospital space to meet the urgent and dispense, clean and repair living, enhanced living and personal care, will assume ownership of the hearing aids of all makes and skilled nursing care, memory support, company later this year. models. Residents at Wesbury and short-term rehabilitation and in- The Petrusos are thrilled to The main office is located participate in a craft project home services to more than 500 individ- have their sons continue to at 955 Park Ave. in Mead- at the Meadville facility. uals and their families. grow their family business ville. Friday, February 19, 2021 THE DERRICK. / The News-Herald – E-15 Community Services of Venango County Agency creates ways to serve community wholesome foods before they become waste. CSVC is a full-service social service agen- This article was submitted by the agency. CSVC hired a full-time systems adminis- cy that offers programs for the entire age span trator/IT director to serve throughout the six- of birth/pregnancy through older adult. Although in the midst of a pandemic and office agency. This position is funded by fed- CSVC is going into its 54th year of provid- trying times, Community Services of Venango eral and state monies. ing services to the most vulnerable of Venango County introduced new opportunities for the The newly created position provides hard- County. agency in 2020. ware/software support and training to all em- Funders include a variety of federal, state The challenges created by the pandemic ployees. Also, the position designs and main- and county grants as well as charitable dona- gave CSVC the occasion to apply for funding, tains modern workflow processes and ensures tions. create new and improved ways to serve fami- that security guidelines are being met. Community Services of Venango County lies and execute improvement to the facilities. CSVC moved its Crawford County Early employs 75 full- and part-time workers and CSVC received a grant from the Pennsylva- Head Start office. The new office is easily ac- has offices at the following locations: nia Department of Environmental Protection cessible, roomier for the growth of staff, and is 203 Center St., Oil City Act 101 Food Recovery Infrastructure Grant conducive to better family-staff interactions. 206 Seneca St., Oil City of $72,439. The new office is located at 13690 S. Moiser- 39 Parker Ave., Franklin With these funds, CSVC purchased a brand town Road in Meadville. 324 West Central Ave., Titusville new 16-foot box truck for transporting food CSVC painted and upgraded its Oil City 13690 South Mosiertown Road, Mead- and supplies for CSVC’s two food pantries. Food Pantry. Thanks to tireless volunteers, the ville In addition, CSVC is in the process of pur- agency was able to brighten and freshen up the 6945 U.S. Route 322, Cranberry Mall, chasing and installing a walk-in freezer at the food pantry to give its families a cleaner and Cranberry Oil City Food Pantry and a walk-in refrigera- brighter environment in which to visit. All of CSVC’s programs provide assistance tion system at the Rocky Grove Food Pantry. CSVC has been grateful for local donations to individuals and families on their road to This gives CSVC the potential to collect and a grant from the United Way and Bridge independence by providing the resources and and store additional food from retail outlets Builders Community Foundation in order to opportunities to improve the stability and in- and local donations. purchase and distribute cleaning bags and hy- dependence that is needed to produce long In addition, CSVC has added fresh produce giene bags to all families in need. Each bag term change in their lives. CSVC welcomes One of the many services offered and dairy items to its distribution that would includes products to maintain a clean and safe volunteers and donors and happily accepts through Community Services of Ve- normally not be handed out due to lack of stor- household as well as full sized hygiene prod- gently used clothing and non-perishable food age. It is the DEP’s goal of reducing the nango County is its food pantry dis- ucts to keep individuals healthy during COVID throughout the year at its two food pantries tribution program. The increased amount of processed and fresh foods from times. and clothing rooms. All of its programs are entering the waste streams of Pennsylvania by Drive-up food pantry distributions were in- monitored and evaluated through the use of need for such services resulted in enabling food pantries to distribute safe and stituted at both pantries in order to continue to data to support, learn from and improve fami- the agency purchasing a new walk-in serve families in a safe manner. Although not lies and individual outcomes and lives. freezer to store some of the food ideal, this process allowed families to safely Community Services experienced a tre- items until they were distributed. obtain food. CSVC also used this approach for mendous outpouring of love from the commu- the Friends for Food and Spirit of Giving holi- nity. Whether through donations or volunteer- home visitation programs using a nurturing and day programs. Community Services gave out a ing time throughout the agency, the commu- strengths-based approach. CSVC continues to total of 4,745 food bags with a total of 94,900 nity came together to help one another. Many focus on providing programs or avenues to ful- food items throughout the year. of CSVC’S Emergency Aid programs rely on fill the gaps in services available in Venango Because of COVID and the school situation donations as well as volunteers to run the pro- County that impact a person’s well-being. in the county, Community Services started a grams. Despite the pandemic, CSVC was CSVC continues to see increases in the School Lunch bag program. CSVC gave out blessed with a caring community that was number of families it serves. These increases bagged student lunches to families in need. willing to sacrifice their own needs in order to are due to the epidemic throughout Venango This was especially helpful when the schools help others. In 2020, Community Services had County with many families exhibiting in- were not yet serving daily lunches. CSVC 112 pantry volunteers that logged a total of creased needs, the number of expansions of gave out a total of 592 school lunch bags. 3,698 hours. current programs, and the growth of its Life Community Services of Venango Community Services of Venango County Programs and events are centered on helping Skills/Emergency Aid program. County purchased a new box truck to continued to fulfill its mission of Planting Re- individuals gain self-sufficiency and living a CSVC served 11,980 families (23,614 indi- help transport food and supplies to sources, Growing Opportunities and Nurturing healthier life. Several of CSVS’s programs sup- viduals) in its 35 programs and events between and from its two food pantries. Hope to the community during the year 2020. port families in child development through July 1, 2019, and June 30, 2020. Homoeopathy Plus Himalayan Salt and Body promotes adds infrared sauna ‘exhaling the past, inhaling the future’ This article was submitted Feel better with heat by the company. This article was submitted by the company. Himalayan Salt & Body also provides a private room People who are looking for that features a zero EMF in- another way to deal with the “Exhale the past. Inhale frared sauna. physical and mental challeng- the future. Breathe.” is the Infrared saunas are very es posed by the COVID-19 new motto for Himalayan Salt different than the older style pandemic may find Homoe- and Body in Knox. Celebrat- steam saunas and are far more opathy Plus a good alterna- ing their second full year in comfortable for the guest. tive. business, 2020 brought the The sauna is large enough Melanie Krneta’s practice, Halotherapy (Salt Room) fa- to accommodate two guests which just completed its first cility a year of excitement and comfortably and also features full year at its location at challenges. Chromotherapy (color heal- 1215B Liberty St. in Franklin, Following the holiday sea- ing frequencies) during the provides homoeopathy and son and into the beginning of 30-minute session. Reiki as ways to better Melanie Krneta stands 2020 was a welcomed bless- Ron Conner, owner of Himalayan Salt and Body in Chromotherapy has been health. next to the full spectrum, ing for the young business. Knox, was interviewed for a segment on “Kaleido- around for over 2,000 years In addition, Krneta, a “We were often booked and is thought to adjust body Franklin resident who is a far infrared sauna that full and busily meeting many scope,” a televised news magazine series that fea- was added to her prac- tures interesting people and places in western and vibrations to frequencies that graduate of England’s Allen new customers while enjoy- result in health and harmony. College of Homoeopathy, tice, Homoeopathy Plus. ing the weekly visits of our central Pennsylvania. Infrared saunas are great for provides free homoeopathic very special regular custom- detoxing, muscle soreness, ar- assistance to deal with the salt walls and medical-grade ers,” stated owner Cindy Con- therapy are anti-inflammato- In the news thritis, fibromyalgia, and pro- pandemic. color therapy lights to pro- ner. “New visitors were eager ry, which help to cleanse and Himalayan Salt and Body motes overall body health and With homoeopathy, all nat- mote healing. to learn more about the holis- detox the lungs as well as in- was featured in January 2020 wellness. ural remedies are adminis- “The medical-grade lights tic and natural effects of salt vigorate the entire body with on Kaleidoscope the Series on Guests are able to book tered to address whatever ails contain the entire color spec- therapy and respiratory health. increased lung capacity and ABC23. sessions online at Himalayan- you without side effects. trum of the sun without the Even now, nearly every week oxygen intake.” “It was a super fun day SaltandBody.com for either All cases in homoeopathy potentially dangerous ultravi- we see customers drive up to Year of expansion shooting the video. A few of the Himalayan salt room or are individualized, as Krneta olet rays,” Krneta said. two hours to visit our salt our customers volunteered to the infrared sauna room. builds personal profiles to de- “The Himalayan salt walls room from Pittsburgh or even “It has always been our All sessions are private. dream to carry the absolute be on camera and they did an velop a remedy specifically for change the ions of the air Cleveland,” she said. amazing job! We were so hap- her individual clients’ needs. from positive to negative, and best organic and all-natural Relax, rejuvenate products in our shoppe,” said py to have them,’ Conner Personal profiles reflect benefits the respiratory sys- and breathe said. lifestyle, sleep patterns, eat- tem,” she said. Conner, who owns the busi- Located at the corner of ness with her husband, Ron. The segment can be viewed ing habits and preferences, Among the many areas the on YouTube at https://www. medical history, etc. sauna focuses on are the cir- Main and State streets in During the shutdown in downtown Knox, the Himala- March, the Conners added youtube.com/watch?v=-CJR- Krneta looks at “the entire culatory system, muscles, BlNh-UY or on their website person” to administer a reme- weight, immune system, de- yan Salt Room was designed several new items and ex- for relaxation, chromotherapy panded others, plus making at HimalayanSaltandBody. dy that will work specifically toxification, skin, joints, sea- com. for that patient, as she match- sonal disorder (S.A.D.), in- and the benefits of a 40-min- them available online. es symptoms to the illness to flammation and relaxation. ute all-natural Halotherapy “The online store is a work- prescribe a type and strength Krneta said an infrared sau- (Salt Therapy) session. in-progress, but we were so of remedy. na heats a person’s body with- “We want every visitor to happy to get it going. We car- Changes in lifestyles that out warming the air around feel relaxed when in our salt ry 100% organic Watkins could assist toward improved them, therefore being of im- room or infrared sauna to get spices, all-natural Australian health, which include “a posi- mense help to people who can’t the most benefit from their soaps (over a dozen varieties), tive outlook” toward the de- tolerate the higher temperatures visit,” Conner said. Himalayan salt lamps, and sired result are encouraged. of a traditional sauna. According to the Salt Ther- amazing all-natural body lo- Krneta also offers the an- Krneta has expanded her apy Association, “the micron- tions and butters, doTerra and cient Oriental form of healing selection of organic, loose- sized salt particles of salt more,” said Cindy Conner. known as Reiki, which helps leaf teas from 20 varieties to reduce stress and could pro- more than 50, and has added a Conveniently Located Together Inside the Cranberry Mall mote physical healing. hot-tea bar. With “life force energy,” Among many other natural Krneta uses healing vibrations products that Krneta offers via the hands and transmits are organic honey; honey- them to the body of the client. comb, when in season; hon- Reiki is not a massage and eymead vinegar infused with it does not require the removal a touch of maple syrup; and a of clothing, Krneta said.. vast selection of her own No medicine is involved handcrafted soap. — only the healing powers of Krneta also has accessories both the mind and physical for making and serving tea, body, as Reiki helps to im- gift certificates and gift bas- (814)676-8660 (814)677-9140 prove overall well-being by kets, and offers periodic spe- working holistically on the cials on her services. There Store Hours: Hours: Mon - Fri 9-4 entire body, mind and spirit, also is free local delivery and Sunday: 12-5pm • Bio-Scan according to Krneta. curbside pickup. Mon-Thurs: 9-5pm • Massage Therapy Many major hospitals — In the works for 2021 is for Friday: 9-4pm • Nutritional Consultations including the Cleveland Clin- Homoeopathy Plus to serve as Sabbath: Closed • Acupuncture ic, Mayo Clinic and Johns a pickup point for organic, Hopkins — have used Reiki regionally grown medicinal • On-Site Gym practitioners. and culinary herbs. • Foot Detox In 2020, Krneta added a Krneta also participates in full spectrum, far infrared events sponsored by the Now Carrying #1 Selling CBD sauna as another option to- Franklin Retail Association ward the goal of good health. and the Franklin Area Cham- www.cranberrywellnesscenter.comb ll t The sauna uses Himalayan ber of Commerce. www.godslittlegarden.org E-16 – THE DERRICK. / The News-Herald Friday, February 19, 2021 Community Ambulance sees community support more than 9% from last year. vice Grant program funded by the This article was submitted From March through May, during Office of the State Fire Commission by the company. the initial stages of COVID-19, am- to aid in the purchase of a new ambu- bulance calls were down by more lance. CAS was approved for this The pandemic has had a negative than 26%. funding which helped to defray the impact on many local individuals and Wheelchair van service dropped cost to purchase the new ambulance. businesses, but Community Ambulance over 50% during that same timeframe CAS has applied for a grant to Service has seen some very positive and were down over 26% for all of help upgrade equipment. CAS sub- responses from the community. 2020. mitted a grant application to the De- “We experienced so much gener- Community Ambulance Service partment of Homeland Security/ Fed- osity from local individuals and busi- has never experienced such a de- eral Emergency Management Agency nesses through this pandemic,” said crease in service requests. Assistance to Firefighter/EMS grant John Anderson, executive director of As slow as it was through much of program to assist in purchasing new the ambulance service company. the year, CAS began to see a big in- monitor/defibrillators. “Our employees have received so crease in calls in the later stages of Community Ambulance continues many free lunches donated by the the year. Many of these calls were for to send interested EMTs to paramedic community. We have an individual people experiencing complications training class. This class is about a who brings donuts to us every Friday due to COVID-19. year long and requires many hours of and we appreciate that very much,” More than 1,900 people were classroom time, reading and book- Anderson said. transported to and from out-of-county work time, and hands-on training in He said a local distillery provided facilities, Anderson noted. These the emergency department, operating the ambulance company with hand transports were done with an ambu- Trisha Lindey, left, and Melissa Chapel stand with a new am- room and on the ambulance. In 2020, sanitizer when it was difficult to ob- lance or wheelchair van. bulance unit that was just purchased by Community Ambu- two employees completed this train- tain. Although requests for wheelchair lance Service. ing and are working in a full-time Anderson said CAS also received van service were down, CAS still capacity. PPE supplies and eye care protection transported more than 8,000 custom- As COVID-19 affected everyone’s port of critically ill patients. It is Two other EMTs are close to fin- supplies. ers by wheelchair van from private life in 2020, it also greatly reduced staffed by a pre-hospital registered ishing the training, Anderson said. “Our dedicated employees have residences and skilled nursing facili- the number of public stand-bys and nurse, a critical care paramedic and Community Ambulance Service, worked tirelessly transporting hun- ties to and from local and out-of- training classes that CAS provided. an emergency medical technician. as well as most EMS agencies across dreds of people with COVID while county doctor appointments, dialysis “Many events that we have covered CAS can transport a variety of the state, face an ever-increasing trying to protect themselves and keep centers, local schools and discharges for many years were canceled this advanced care medications, blood manpower crisis. “Finding energetic their family members safe,” Ander- from hospitals. year,” Anderson said. products, and patients who are intu- people who have an interest in this son said. People who use the wheelchair In 2020, CAS provided stand-by bated and on a ventilator. Typically field is becoming more of a chal- Community Ambulance Service van service must pay an additional coverage at 82 events. Most of the these patients have been transported lenge,” said Anderson. Anyone who faced many of the same difficulties as fee above their ambulance subscrip- events were youth and high school by air medical services but as services is interested in receiving more infor- many other individuals and business- tion fee. Most insurance plans (in- sporting events. CAS also covered are busy and bad weather approaches, mation about available training or es did across the community and the cluding Medicare) do not cover these Tri-City Raceway Park and special Community Ambulance Service can jobs in the EMS field can call the country. charges. events held at Venango County fair- transfer these critical patients safely CAS office for information. Although CAS never shut down Included in these calls were some grounds. to their destination. In May, CAS will start its new its operations, other business that “Home for the Holidays” transports. In addition to public stand-bys, CAS CAS employs four critical care subscription program. This program were forced to close had a direct im- With this service, we transport local provides other public service programs. paramedics and four pre-hospital reg- allows many people to protect them- pact on the ambulance company. nursing facility residents to local fam- One example is providing lift assists for istered nurses. Since its inception, selves from out-of-pocket expenses One example was the purchase of ily members’ homes to get to spend people who need aid in getting from CAS has received requests for this when they have to use an ambulance. a new ambulance. The vehicle was some time together for Thanksgiving their house to their vehicle. Other pub- service from several hospitals in the Most insurance companies will not supposed to be delivered in April, but and Christmas. This service is pro- lic services include public awareness northwestern Pennsylvania region. cover all ambulance transportation it was delayed until January because vided at no cost to the family. programs, stand-by services such as In 2020, CAS was able to make expenses especially in non-emergen- of various closures. Community Ambulance Service school events, public and high-risk two improvements to its vehicle fleet. cy situations, which include transfers Community Ambulance Service is has a fleet of eight Advanced Life events, ambulance tours and education. It replaced a van style Sprinter ambu- to out-of-county facilities. a not-for-profit agency that was start- Support equipped ambulances. In total, CAS provided nearly 600 lance with a Ford Transit ambulance. A new trend for insurance compa- ed in 1967. It is governed by a dedi- Its fleet of vehicles traveled nearly hours of community service. These types of ambulances are primar- nies is to have co-pays for ambulance cated volunteer seven-person board 540,000 miles in 2020. CAS provided 54 classes of public ily used for non-emergency transports transportation, which can be as high of directors made up of community Wheelchair vans traveled over training and taught 497 people in the and for transports to Pittsburgh and as $500. These co-pays are also cov- leaders and residents. 180,000 of those miles. community during the past year. The Erie hospitals for upgrade in care. ered by CAS’ subscription plan. The money generated by CAS is All of the units are licensed education includes First Aid, CPR “We put a great number of miles on Community Ambulance Service returned to the community in contin- through the Pennsylvania Department and Automated External Defibrilla- our ambulances and being able to re- offers the residents of Venango Coun- ued medical and vehicle equipment of Health. tion training. The training encom- place them allows us to keep reliable ty a subscription plan that is available upgrades, employee medical continu- CAS also has a fleet of eight passes various individuals, high vehicles on the road,” Anderson said. to households, individuals, senior ing education, quality improvement wheelchair-accessible vans and holds schools, vocational classes, extended “We averaged over 45,000 miles a citizens and nursing home patients. programs and numerous other com- a license with the Pennsylvania Pub- care facilities, personal care homes, year on our ambulances,” he added. Community Ambulance operates munity minded events. lic Utility Commission for Venango emergency service workers, fire de- Also in 2020, CAS purchased a three stations within Venango Coun- Community Ambulance Service County. partments and local business and in- new wheelchair van. With the large ty. The office of Community Ambu- had a very unusual year in 2020, An- Community Ambulance Service dustry in Venango County. increase in this service, being able to lance Service is located at 1010 Buf- derson said. employees 27 full-time and 41 casual Community Ambulance Service upgrade the fleet has become very falo St. in Franklin and houses a sta- He noted the ambulance company employees ranging from wheelchair became licensed in 2018 as a Critical necessary, Anderson said. tion at that location. The second sta- recorded a total of 15,290 customer van operators, EMTs, paramedics, Care Transport Service. This has con- During 2020, CAS applied for a tion is located at 1502 W. First St. in transports. That was a decrease of pre-hospital registered nurses, dis- tinued to be a successful service that grant from the Pennsylvania Depart- Oil City, and the third station is lo- about 20% in transports from last year. patching, office, billing personnel CAS offers. ment of Health and the Volunteer Fire cated at 3561 State Route 257 in Ambulance calls decreased by and administration. This is a specialized ground trans- Company, Volunteer Ambulance Ser- Seneca. Friday, February 19, 2021 THE DERRICK. / The News-Herald – E-17 Wagner eye center expands scope of care learning connection. They can the patient the opportunity to Eschenbach Visolux Digital This article was submitted assist families and educational change the shapes and colors HD magnifier can be con- by the company. professionals to equip chil- of the frames and offers a sun- nected to a TV or computer dren with speciality lenses glass clip for the frames. Xpe- monitor and automatically Wagner Family Eyecare and/or vision therapy to assist rio Ultraviolet sunwear colors moves over printed material provides superior eye health in correcting many learning are new in sunwear protec- to assist the patient in reading care to the tri-county area. Dr. disabilities and treat pediatric tion, which offer long lasting small print. David Wagner and Dr. Ste- eye issues. and consistent colors with po- Staff of Wagner Family phen Reinsel have expanded They also specialize in low larized protection. There are Eyecare are members of the their passion of full scope eye vision rehabilitation, evaluat- six solid and six gradient col- Pennsylvania Para-Optomet- care and are certified for the ing cataracts, treating major ors along with three mirror ric Association, Pennsylvania Diabetic Eyehealth Alliance eye diseases such as macular finishes. The Xperio elimi- Optometric Association, and Vision Source. Vision degeneration, diabetic retin- nates glare, gives maximum American Optometric Asso- Source is North America’s opathy, hypertensive retinopa- Dr. Stephen Reinsel performs a topography scan on UV protection, scratch resis- ciation and attend annual largest and most prestigious thy, as well as glaucoma, pink Dana Mitchell, an optometric extern from Salus Uni- tance, polarization and are training sessions. network of private practice eye conjunctivitis, ocular/na- versity, with the Visia Imaging corneal analyzer. easier to keep clean. Blue Reinsel is the secretary for optometric offices. sal allergy relief and head- light filter and computer lens- the Oil City Rotary, and a Vision Source allows Wag- aches. They can help diagnose prevention and stabilizing and screenings include the es are also available. seven-year president of the ner Family Eyecare first ac- visual issues caused by com- macular degeneration with Optomap, the ultra-wide field The contact lens area of- Northwest Optometric Soci- cess to the most up-to-date puter vision syndrome and high grade carotenoids. retinal imager, and the Heidel- fers cutting edge training for ety of Pennsylvania and Wag- technology and treatments. educate people on proper Wagner Family Eyecare berg Spectralis OCT (Ocular patients in the wearing and ner is treasurer. Vision Source also allows electronic device usage. utilizes state-of-the-art equip- Coherence Tomography) im- daily care of contact lenses. Wagner sits on the board of Wagner Family Eyecare to Reinsel and Wagner con- ment with recent upgrades to ager. The OCT measures mul- Technological changes were the Venango County Blind pass on savings, quality, and tinue to co-manage and coor- medical technology within the tiple layers of the retina for made in 2020 and incorporat- Association, Oil City Rotary, cutting-edge technology to dinate eye care with several office. macular degeneration & glau- ed for 2021 in the corrective Youth Connections (formerly patients. retinal specialists in the west- An added feature for Wag- coma. Visual field testing with contact lenses. Many options Big Brothers Big Sisters) and Wagner and Reinsel co- ern Pennsylvania and eastern ner Family Eyecare is the the Humphrey Field Analyzer from daily disposable, col- UPMC NW Foundation. manage with a comprehensive Ohio areas. Topcon Corneal Analyzer To- 3 from Zeiss, can measure ored contacts, multifocals, The staff at Wagner Family network of primary care phy- Plaquenil, diabetes, macu- pographer. The Topcon CA- peripheral vision and aid in astigmatism/toric to specialty Eyecare also consists of office sicians and specialists for ap- lar degeneration and many 800 is a corneal analyzer with glaucoma diagnosis and treat- keratoconic lenses are avail- manager Penny Ferringer; propriate medical care of the other monitoring and testing integrated pupillography. This ment. The overall health of able in the office. CPO certified optician Eliza- patient’s medical needs such can also be completed with instrument, by acquiring im- the eyes and utmost care to Wagner Family Eyecare beth Marshall; CPO certified as those with diabetic retin- the doctors in Seneca, rather ages of the anterior segment patients’ vision is priority at works closely with Bureau of technician assistant Susie Hl- opathy, cataracts, and macular than having to travel out of of the eye, can analyze the Wagner Family Eyecare. Blindness and Visual Services awati; technician/optician degeneration. Patients have the area to see a specialist. topography of the cornea. Wagner Family Eyecare and Office of Vocational Re- Shelly Manson, and office access to their latest medical Wagner Family Eyecare This can be helpful in treating offers a larger optical area habilitation in correctly personnel Amy Rankin, Kath- information by way of the offers an extensive line of keratoconus patients and ob- featuring over 800 frames matching rehabilitation needs leen Kahle and Jenna Munoz. electronic patient portal, physician recommended nu- taining measurements for from well-known manufactur- of patients with specific mag- The doctors and staff at which began in 2015. triceuticals and vitamin sup- contact lenses. This equip- ers for patients to select from. nifiers to enable patients to Wagner Family Eyecare con- Wagner Family Eyecare is plements that aid in disease ment can also help to identify Quality lines are Vera Wang, continue living as indepen- tinue to assist patients with all a teaching facility for student prevention. PRN – Nuretin problematic areas of the eye Lily Pulitzer, Penguin, Kliik, dently as possible when suf- their eye care needs. Doctors externs of the Pennsylvania (medical food), Numaqula, involved with dryness in dry John Varvatos, Real Tree and fering from low vision. Wag- and staff participate in con- College of Optometry at Sa- De3-Dry Eye Omega, Eo3- eye disease. Vera Bradley and an expanded ner Family Eyecare continues tinuing education to stay cur- lus University. Wagner and Eye Omega, are certified nu- Prokera amniotic mem- line of Nike frames. Crizal to be a provider for the Veter- rent on the latest optical and Reinsel also collaborate with traceuticals. The supplements brane lenses are one of many and any anti-reflective lenses ans Administration and en- eye care technologies and and educate many local and are available in office or for cutting-edge medical options along with Transition prod- ables veterans to have their maintain compliance with the surrounding school districts monthly home delivery. available for use in healing ucts are available. Funoogles needs met locally with low standards set through the in the early diagnosis of learn- MacuHealth, carried in office, cornea trauma and chronic — frame line for youths — vision devices, eyewear, and American Optometric Asso- ing disabilities and the vision/ is a health supplement for dry eye issues. Other testing revamped their line and offers eye care services. The new ciation. West Park Rehab continues to grow with 2 locations therapists have been aligned into therapeutic The practice began training to perform that expanded the office into an adjacent suite. This article was submitted focus teams. Each physical therapist and a li- EMG/NCV (nerve testing) and Musculoskel- This added 1,000 square feet of treatment by the company. censed assistant focus on a particular region of etal Ultrasound as part of a nationally accred- area. the body. Edward St. Clair and Melissa Crock- ited residency and fellowship program. The treatment area is being used for the West Park Rehab has been a physical ther- er primarily treat the upper limbs to include Jessica Collins performs the NCV/EMG newly established Woman’s Health program. apy provider in Venango County for 21 years. the shoulder, elbow, wrist and hand. St. Clair testing on patients who have suspected nerve Both Dr. Obrien and Snavely completed The growing clinic now employs more than is a board-certified hand specialist. problems stemming found in the nerves exit- formal training in Woman’s Health to include 20 individuals. Most of the West Park thera- Jessica Collins and Lisa Cassagne focus on ing the spine or in the arms or legs. treatment of pelvic pain and incontinence. pists have been with the practice for over 10 the spine. Collins has completed extensive Ultrasound imaging of the rotator cuff, el- There was also a room dedicated for Yoga years. coursework in one of the most effective forms bow and hand, hip, knee and ankles are per- based exercises. All of the physical therapists at West Park of non-surgical back treatment called the formed by Beth Carr. Additionally, there is a cardiopulmonary Rehab are doctors of physical therapy and McKenzie Method. New to the staff at West Park Rehab is reconditioning program at the Seneca office. hold an advanced license that allows them to Treatment of the lower extremity is led by Kevin Cheung, who is launching a Parkinson’s This program provides highly specialized, provide Direct Access physical therapy. Direct Beth Carr and Caitlin Masterson. This team and movement disorder therapy called LSVT monitored therapy to help individuals who Access simply means that a patient can go di- focuses on the hip, knee and ankle. They also Big program. He is a certified therapist in this suffer from compromised endurance that stems rectly to their physical therapist without a re- provide consultation for wheelchair seating proven system. from cardiopulmonary or illness related de- ferral. Most insurances allow for this type of and work with patients who have had amputa- Katie Weaver has also joined the West Park conditioning. This office also performs pre- self -referral. With regards to insurance, West tions. This team also utilizes an overhead har- team and she brings nearly eight years of ex- employment screening for a dozen local com- Park Rehab participates in most major plans ness system that supports patients who have perience in outpatient therapy and also holds a panies. and has recently been included as provider for difficulty walking or are at risk for falls. bachelor’s degree in kinesiology from Penn During the early months of the pandemic, the UPMC plan that insures employees of the West Park Rehab has added a second opera- State University. the staff at West Park Rehab implemented a hospital. tion at its Franklin location called West Park The Seneca office is staffed by Shaina TelePT program that allowed them continue to There two offices, one in Franklin and one Diagnostics. This became one of the newest O’Brien, James Shreffler and Brandy Snave- consult and treat patients on a secure video in Seneca. franchises to join the Hands On Diagnostics ly. portal. This program is still in place today and At the Franklin location on Pone Lane, the group. This office underwent a renovation in 2020 offers an alternative to in-house therapy. Ultrasound technology used for orthopedic conditions The same ultrasound imaging that has been used for looking into the womb of ex- pectant mothers, identifying blood clots and viewing the heart is now being used for orthopedic conditions. The technology is not new but this application for look- Serving the people of Venango County ing at muscles, tendons and cartilage is new. Advanced for over 50 years! training is needed to properly perform these tests and interpret the results. West Park Rehab Physical Therapy has entered into a nationally credentialed fellowship program with Hands Musculoskeletal Ultrasound has the same value as On Diagnostics that includes an MRI for orthopedic conditions and can be per- nearly 700 hours of training formed by a certified practitioner without the delay to allow them to perform and of a required authorization. interpret these tests. Musculoskeletal Ultra- pains a population can experi- constitutes a key thought for sound Imaging can be more ence is shoulder pain, it is one surgical repair, this is a vital specific in finding tears in the of the common musculoskele- trademark while choosing an body. For the shoulder spe- tal disorders. At any given imaging methodology for rota- cifically, this diagnostic test- time, 7% to 26% of adults will tor cuff issues,” the study said. ing tool has a stronger ability experience shoulder pain and In addition, the MSKUS to find and properly identify 66% will experience this pain technology can be used to small tears as well as the ad- or discomfort in their lifetime. quickly and effectively assess vantage of being able to eval- In a study conducted and post- the extent of injury to ten- uate nerve injuries that may ed to the Journal of Physical dons, ligaments and the me- not be identified with a basic Therapy Science, 20 partici- niscus of the knee as well as MRI exam, according to Ed- pants were taken in as subjects Achilles tendonitis and plan- die St.Clair, owner of West to measure the reliability of tar fasciitis of the foot. Park Rehab. MSK ultrasound imaging. MSKUS can also be used to Additionally, a MSKUS The objective of the study identify the extent of injury in can be performed by a certi- was to measure supraspinatus conditions like tennis elbow, fied practitioner without the tendon thickness and the ac- carpal tunnel syndrome and When you need us - we’ll be there. delay of authorization that curacy of MSKUS imaging to other nerve compression prob- most patients and physicians do this. lems in the upper and lower In an emergency and ask for experience with an MRI. Results of the study show extremities, St.Clair said. ALWAYS DIAL 911 Instead of waiting four the MSKUS technology is “a “This technology is a game weeks for the insurance to reliable method” of measur- changer for the practice of authorize payment for an ing this thickness as well as in physical therapy and effective MRI, the MSKUS can be per- being able to see muscle func- treatment of orthopedic and COMMUNITY AMBULANCE SERVICE formed by a HODS-trained tion to determine whether nerve-related injuries. After physical therapist as part of there is improvement or a nearly a year of research into their initial therapy evalua- worsening in the person’s the HODS program, we were tion. condition. convinced that it was worth 814-437-3016 One of the most common “Since full thickness tear the investment,” he said. E-18 – THE DERRICK. / The News-Herald Friday, February 19, 2021

Welcoming New Patients

The providers at UPMC Magee-Womens Specialty Services welcome new ob-gyn patients to our offices in Franklin and Clarion. Our practice includes ob-gyn physicians, a certiﬁed nurse midwife, and advanced practice providers. Backed by the expertise of UPMC Magee-Womens Hospital, our skilled team has access to advanced technology and training to provide our patients with the best obstetric care possible — close to where they live.

UPMC Magee-Womens Specialty Services

1310 Liberty St. 1008 S. 5th Ave., Suite 203 Franklin, PA 16323 Clarion, PA 16214 814-432-3163 814-223-9280

For more information about our practices and our providers, visit UPMCNorthwest.com/ObGyn. To schedule an appointment or a video visit, call one of our office locations.