Healthy Living FALL 2017

Compassionate Care at HOSPICE HOUSE Managing Chronic Conditions

HEALTH CARE at YOUR FINGERTIPS Letter from the President Anywhere, Anytime Dear Friends, Time, for so many of us, is a precious commodity. As we bid farewell to summer and children head back to school, schedules become even more crunched with CONVENIENT CARE AT YOUR FINGERTIPS sports and other after-school activities. It is often difficult for many of us to fit everything in.

Thankfully, technology can help. On page 3 of this issue, we discuss a variety of Now more than ever, technology touches our lives every day. It happened in an instant. Ashlee Hacker’s 2-year-old programs that help you stay healthy and save you time. The article tells the story of Designed to make life easier and maximize our time, new one family that uses MedStar eVisits to save time traveling and waiting for urgent daughter, Elayna, fell and hit her care. The service, which offers secure, online consultations with board-certified programs and services are being offered regularly to help head on a coffee table leaving a physicians, has helped this busy mom of two find answers to medical questions patients become better connected and manage their health gash across her eyebrow. Ashlee, Christine R. Wray, FACHE in the comfort of her own home and take better care of her family. a registered nurse at MedStar President, MedStar St. Mary’s Hospital care with a few simple key strokes or a couple of minutes St. Mary’s Hospital, thought the Senior Vice President, MedStar Health Making the right medical decisions for your family is We are excited wound looked deep, but Ashlee sometimes difficult. Luckily, we offer resources in the on a smartphone. MedStar St. Mary’s Hospital offers you a wasn’t completely sure whether Kenneth A. Samet, FACHE to be able to offer so community to help you through some of life’s most variety of technological solutions to help you get connected President and CEO, difficult times. Our story on John and Diane Haderly she should take her daughter to MedStar Health many services to our to better health. on page 10 discusses how Hospice of St. Mary’s and the Emergency Department (ED). Barbara Thompson community, not just Hospice House helped Diane when she was facing a Continued on Page 4 Chair, Board of Directors, terminal illness. She and her husband found support MedStar St. Mary’s Hospital to care for you when and peace during Diane’s final days. Christine R. Wray, FACHE you are sick, but also President, MedStar St. Mary’s Hospital As students head back to school, this issue also to help you stay well. Senior Vice President, honors our annual scholarship winners. All of these Ashlee Hacker and her husband, David, stay busy MedStar Health young people have worked incredibly hard to with their young children Elayna and Gavin. Holly Bond Meyer pursue their dreams of a career in healthcare-related fields. The St. Mary’s Hospital Healthy Living Editor Foundation is excited to be able to help them on their journey. Please take a moment to read about them on page 15. Jennifer Green Healthy Living Writer You will also meet Nicholas Tapazoglou, MD, on page 6. One of our newest Deborah Gross medical professionals, Dr. Tapazoglou has extensive experience in general surgery Healthy Living Writer and is helping our hospital bring bariatric weight loss surgery options to residents Megan Johnson in our community. Healthy Living Writer We are excited to be able to offer so many services to our community, not just to Linda Lagle care for you when you are sick, but also to help you stay well. That’s what good Healthy Living Contributing Writer neighbors do —­ they take care of each other. Ruby Hawks Healthy Living Designer Kindest Regards, Sandy Ondrejcak Healthy Living Designer

Healthy Living is published by MedStar Christine R. Wray St. Mary’s Hospital. The information is intended to inform and educate about health, not as a substitute for consultation with a physician. MedStar St. Mary’s Hospital of St. Mary’s County, its Medical Staff and Auxiliary, are non-discriminating in their admission, treatment, employment and membership policies. The hospital employs, offers membership, renders treatment and receives vendor services without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin or ancestry, marital status or status as a qualified disabled individual. Patients receive considerate and respectful care at MedStar St. Mary’s regardless of the source of payment. MedStar St. Mary’s Hospital’s Payment Assistance Program provides free or reduced charges for care to patients who receive inpatient and outpatient services. This program is available for individuals who are not eligible to receive medical assistance from the state and meet specific income requirements. If you are interested in finding out if you qualify for payment assistance, please contact our Credit Office at 301-475-6039. HEALTHY LIVING FALL 2017 | 3 Continued from Page 3 taken advantage of the service when The doctor called in the oral antibiotic her husband had the flu, both of her so we could get her started on it and “It looked like it could use some children experienced ear infections, and then advised me to follow up with my suturing,” Ashlee said, “but it was when she had a sinus infection. daughter’s doctor.” later in the evening — I didn’t really As a nurse, she felt all of the providers Ashlee said accessing the site was quick; want to take a 2-year-old out to the she had dealt with were professional and she filled out the required information Emergency Department unless I qualified and each visit took only a few to set up an account and was able to absolutely had to.” GET CONNECTED TO BETTER HEALTH minutes. Prescriptions were called into preview the doctors who were available So Ashlee turned to technology her local pharmacy. Ashlee even had to and read through their credentials while MedStarEVisit.com for help. have a follow-up visit with one provider waiting to be connected. MedStar eVisits “I remembered MedStar eVisits, so when her daughter’s ear infection wasn’t “It is much faster than going to the ED 24/7 access to board-certified medical • Free enrollment I called them,” she said. improving. or urgent care,” Ashlee said. “I tell all of providers. Connect with a provider • No appointment needed within minutes via secure video at • $49 or less per visit “The first treatment was appropriate, she my friends and family about it because Using her smartphone, Ashlee home or on the go. Apple and Android • Insurance not required found the MedStar eVisit website just needed an oral antibiotic because it is much cheaper than most people’s app available for download. but accepted and proceeded to log in. About she had a really bad infection,” Ashlee co-pays for urgent or emergency care. five minutes later, Ashlee was said. “So I was actually able to call Several times it saved me from leaving MedStarStMarys.org/MyCare MyCare Patient Portal talking to a doctor about her back and talk with the same provider. home. I think it’s a great service.” A secure website that will allow • Access any time daughter’s injury. Ashlee said the MedStar St. Mary’s Hospital’s patients • View and download hospital doctor she consulted with was very access to their personal health medical records, laboratory and reassuring and calming. record and to pay bills online 24/7. imaging results, and discharge and educational documentation “It was neat they could see the wound — you just put the camera MedStarStMarys.org/YourRoom close to her face and the doctor ‘It is much myStation had me squeeze the cut and let it Television system offering in-room • 24/7 access to information about go. He did a good job of assessing faster than entertainment, education and access plan of care including upcoming to health records. Family-friendly tests and medications the wound,” she said. going to ED or movies, games or TV shows available • On-demand educational Ultimately, Ashlee did take her with the push of a button. materials daughter to the ED to have the urgent care. wound closed. MedStarStMarys.org/FindADoc Several times Find A Doc “He said if it was his daughter, he Online database of doctors who practice • Searchable would take her in,” Ashlee said. it saved me at MedStar St. Mary’s Hospital and • Available 24/7 “It made me feel better that I was throughout MedStar Health. • Physician profiles including taking her for a reason rather than from leaving education and contact information • Insurances accepted getting there and being told that I home.’ didn’t need to be there.” MedStarPromptCare.org/CharlotteHall MedStar PromptCare HEALTH CARE – Ashlee Hacker, Check In Need urgent care? • Choose appointment time ON YOUR SCHEDULE Dameron Save time waiting by checking • Wait at home or wherever you are in online. most comfortable Her daughter’s accident wasn’t • Receive a text message reminder the first time Ashlee had used MedStar eVisits. She had also

4 | HEALTHY LIVING FALL 2017 HEALTHY LIVING FALL 2017 | 5 General and Bariatric Surgeon Conveniently Located in Leonardtown

Christine Wray, far right, president of MedStar St. Mary’s Meet Nicholas Hospital, discusses Emergency Department procedures with Maryland Secretary of Health Dennis R. Schrader, second Tapazoglou, MD from right. Board certified in general surgery and fellowship MedStar St. Mary’s trained in bariatric surgery, Dr. Tapazoglou specializes At top, the St. Mary’s County Chamber of Commerce and the Economic Development in minimally-invasive and laparoscopic procedures. Welcomes State, Local Commission get a closer look at the MedStar St. Mary’s Hospital Wound Healing Center during a recent tour. Above, the Secretary of Health tours the Intensive Care Center. Pictured from left are MedStar St. Mary’s President Christine Wray; Gretchen HELPING TO HEAL A HERNIA “I offer laparoscopic Officials for Summer Visits Hardman, Intergovernmental Affairs, Southern Maryland Liaison, Office of the preperitoneal inguinal hernia surgery, which means instead of Governor; Jennifer Alvey, BSN, RN, director of Intensive Care Center; Secretary of entering through the abdomen, I go between the abdomen and Officials from St. Mary’s County and the State of Maryland received Health Dennis R. Schrader; Stephen T. Michaels, MD, chief operating officer and chief hernia. This procedure is known to result in fewer complications a close-up look at MedStar St. Mary’s Hospital during two separate medical officer, MedStar St. Mary’s Hospital; and Lori Werrell, director of MedStar St. Mary’s Population & Community Health. and less pain for patients. It’s an outpatient procedure, after which tours this summer. patients leave the hospital from the recovery room.” The new Maryland Secretary of Health Dennis R. Schrader, the St. Mary’s Chamber of Commerce and Economic Development “We were excited to give our community leaders and HERNIA AND REFLUX RELATIONSHIP “A hiatal hernia occurs Commission members were given a “state-of-the-hospital” the Secretary of Health the opportunity to get to know in the diaphragm and often goes hand-in-hand with reflux. presentation from hospital leaders and were able to visit different our hospital better,” said Christine Wray, president of Typically, a hiatal hernia is not something you know you have, but units, including the Emergency Department, to receive a first-hand MedStar St. Mary’s. “Our hospital continually strives to rather something you find out about through imaging from your look at the facility. Leadership discussed with the group the current excel in patient safety and quality, and we are proud of doctor. I offer both hiatal hernia repair and anti-reflux procedures. challenges the hospital faces as well as its initiatives to continue to the incredible work our staff and medical professionals Basically, if you have severe reflux that’s not being managed by provide excellent care to the community. do every day to help us reach these goals.” medications, or if you have Barrett’s Esophagus or a known hiatal hernia, you can qualify for these procedures.”

BARIATRIC BREAKTHROUGH “No one else in this region is performing bariatric weight loss surgery so I wanted to bring that here for the residents of this area. Currently, we are working with Cheseldine Honored as ‘Care Partner’ by Local Commission MedStar Washington Hospital Center’s Bariatric Surgery Program Mary B. Cheseldine, volunteer and student aspect of her program,” Marcia wrote in her to bring bariatric surgery to MedStar St. Mary’s Hospital. I have services coordinator for MedStar St. Mary’s nomination letter. “We feel very fortunate that patients here who are nearing completion of or who have already Hospital, was recently Michael works at MedStar St. completed the extensive pre-operative preparation for bariatric awarded the Care Partner Mary’s Hospital. It has boosted surgery, so we know there’s definitely an interest.” Award by the Commission his self-esteem by providing a for People with Disabilities purposeful job and keeps him BENEFITS OF BARIATRIC SURGERY “Patients can lose 60 to of St. Mary’s County. active in his community.” 70 percent of excess body weight, which can extend their life Nominated by Marcia “It’s a huge honor, but I really expectancy by 10 to 20 years and improve their quality of life by Bald of California, feel like the focus is on the 95 percent. All types of medical problems are often resolved after Maryland, Mary B. works individuals,” said Mary B. bariatric surgery and it reduces the risk of just about every kind of with Marcia’s son, Michael, “We feel honored to give Dr. Tapazoglou’s office is in the hospital’s cancer.” a 15-year assistant in Volunteers Jeffery Hagen, left, and them a regular place where Michael Bald with Mary B. Cheseldine. Outpatient Pavilion, located at 25500 Point Nutrition Services with they feel wanted, supported Lookout Road in Leonardtown. CONSIDERING BARIATRIC SURGERY special needs. Michael is one of four and accepted. These young people don’t Many insurance companies offer coverage for weight loss volunteers with disabilities at the hospital. see their life as a challenge, yet they’re so Visit MedStarStMarys.org/SpecialtyPhysicians surgeries, but some do not. Before talking to a specialist, contact “Mary B. goes out of her way to include inspirational to everyone else.” or call 240-434-4088 for an appointment. your insurance company to determine what is covered under your her special needs volunteers in every Visit MedStarStMarys.org/volunteer to learn more. specific policy. 6 | HEALTHY LIVING FALL 2017 HEALTHY LIVING FALL 2017 | 7 LOCAL BUZZ  HEALTHY NEWS EVENTS TIPS TRENDS

Celebrating Three Decades of Gala Gratitude

You and your guests will shine bright among some of the earth’s most sought-after treasures at this year’s milestone event. Brilliant diamonds and luscious pearls will captivate you during our most elegant evening of the year, filled with the dazzling sounds Presented to Amy Magyar by Kay D’Esposito, Auxiliary president and Christine of the popular band, Nocture. Wray, hospital president, the Peabody Award of Excellence is named in honor of former Auxilian and tremendous community role model, Elinor Peabody. Embrace the beauty and splendor of three decades It’s presented annually to one of 24 SPIRIT award winners who are honored for together. Join us as we say “Cheers to 30 Years” and d Service, Patient First, Integrity, Respect, Innovation and Teamwork. celebrate the generosity that continues to enhance our community hospital. DIAMONDS & P EARLS     |   Visit MedStarStMarys.org/30 for more information or to become a sponsor. Nurse Receives Peabody Award for Excellence Named the 2017 Peabody Award of Excellence winner and Associate of BREAST CANCER AWARENESS MONTH the Year, Amy Magyar is nearing 20 years of service to our community th Take Comfort in Knowing at MedStar St. Mary’s Hospital (MSMH). She has worked as an intensive 12 Join Us on care nurse in the medical surgical/telemetry unit before expanding her Annual knowledge and career in the area of interventional radiology (IR). A MEDSTAR ST. MARY’S You’ve Been Checked the Green! Mammogram appointments for first time visits certified radiology nurse, Amy is also board certified in vascular access The only thing better than a round and regular exams are available at MedStar (VA-BC) and is currently studying to become a nurse practitioner. of golf, is a round of golf played for GOLF St. Mary’s Hospital. Come in for a scheduled ON BEING NAMED ASSOCIATE OF THE YEAR: “I was truly surprised. I was sitting appointment beginning in October and TOURNAMENT a good cause. MedStar St. Mary’s there intently listening while she [Kay D’Esposito, Auxiliary President] receive a free, reusable hot/cold comfort Hospital Annual Golf Tournament will was reading the Peabody Award. As she described the winner, I was pack, available while supplies last. be held Thursday, Sept. 21, at Breton thinking, ‘Yes, I believe in that, too,’ and ‘Yes, that’s a goal I try to live up Bay Golf Course. Registration begins at 8 a.m. with tee off at 9 a.m. Call 301-475-6399 to schedule to as well.’ When she said, ‘This person won the SPIRIT Award four years an appointment. For more information, contact Marie (Rees) Hodges McCrossen at ago for a contrast reaction,’ I looked at my friend Jen and said, ‘Is it you?’ [email protected] or 610-952-1641. A benefit for your She just smiled and shook her head no, and that’s when I knew.” non-profit community hospital caring for all of Southern Maryland. PROUDEST CAREER MOMENT: “I absolutely love my job. But my favorite part of my career over the years has been acting as a preceptor for nursing Visit MedStarStMarys.org/Golf for information on becoming a sponsor or to register. students and new nurses. I love seeing the familiar faces of the amazing nurses who work at MSMH and knowing I was able to be a part of some their professional development. It makes me proud to know I am helping the next generation of nurses.”

8 | HEALTHY LIVING FALL 2017 HEALTHY LIVING FALL 2017 | 9 Just as she wanted, Diane Haderly was at Don’t miss Couple Finds Compassionate Care Hospice House for her final days. All of these her family, including the dog, were able to at Hospice House come and say their goodbyes. upcoming John was so taken with his wife’s care that when his 95-year-old mother-in-law was in events to a nursing home dying of lung cancer, he arranged for her to go to Hospice House. support She Did it Her Way Once again, he was grateful for their skill and compassion. Hospice Upon removal of a tumor on her pancreas Diane and John sailed and traveled As a thank you, John helps care for the baby and completion of six months of in their motorhome during their time grand piano in the Hospice House living of St. Mary’s: chemotherapy, everything seemed to be together. They visited their blended family room, seeing that it stays well-tuned for all fine for Diane Haderly. She felt great. After of five children and eight grandchildren, to enjoy. Diane loved music and John, a BLUEGRASS FOR HOSPICE all, the Lexington Park resident beat breast discussing Diane’s decision and what When Diane Haderly’s cancer returned, she chose not to undergo treatment musician, served as the Navy Band’s tour Saturday, Oct. 28 cancer 17 years ago. she wanted in addition to celebrating to extend her life, but instead wanted to spend her last few months traveling director for most of his military career. Flat Iron Farm This time around she wasn’t as fortunate. family occasions. Thanks to their hospice and enjoying life with her husband, John. connection, John, a retired Navy officer “Hospice staff treated my wife, myself and Great Mills A follow-up scan showed the cancer had our entire family with dignity,” John said. spread. with no medical training, always felt JINGLE AND MINGLE confident should they ever encounter an “They honored Diane’s wishes, provided Kathy and her staff ask patients and families “What’s important to you?” Friday, Dec. 1 Diane discussed her options with John, her emergency while traveling. comfort and support, and made the Southern Maryland Higher husband of 38 years. She could undergo to help with decisions about palliative or hospice care. “This question can transition tolerable for our entire family. I’m “Whenever we left home,” said John, Education Center an even more intense treatment or do help with one of the most important conversations of our life,” said Kathy. also proud of our community for building “I let hospice know our routes and our California, Maryland nothing. The treatment could extend her If unsure how to begin end-of-life conversations, she highly recommends the Hospice House. It’s a gift.” life a few months, but Diane decided it destinations. They set up hospice services The Conversation Project website at TheConversationProject.org for several FESTIVAL OF TREES WITH wasn’t worth it. for us in those areas, although we never helpful resources. Visit HospiceofStMarys.org HOSPICE OF ST. MARY’S had to use them.” for more information about hospice Saturday, Dec. 2 “It came down to quality of life,” said John, “All of hospice care is palliative care, but all of palliative care According to Hospice and Palliative Care and palliative care. Southern Maryland Higher recalling the toll the six months of chemo is not hospice care at all,” Kathy said. Palliative care should Interim Director Kathy Franzen, BSN, RN, a Education Center took on Diane. “She always said if she start at the beginning of any serious or chronic illness. To be great number of patients and their families California, Maryland ever got really sick, she wanted to die at eligible for hospice, a terminally ill patient with approximately Hospice House.” So the couple went to never discuss end-of-life options. Instead, six months to live must have a physician referral. Visit HospiceofStMarys.org/ Hospice House, learned about hospice decisions are crisis based, made under Calendar for more information services and chose her options for care. duress in the Intensive Care Center or the or call 301-994-3023. Emergency Department. “This places a Being terminal, Diane was eligible for huge burden on others.” hospice care immediately, although she felt great. In fact, in the beginning, John Understanding said Diane would answer the door and the hospice nurse would ask to see the patient Hospice & Palliative while Diane answered, “I am the patient.” Care Hospice of St. Mary’s will be offering workshops this fall to help individuals better understand hospice and palliative care. Scheduled to speak are Michael LaPenta, MD, and Jennifer Schmidt, MD, both of whom have extensive experience with terminally ill patients and caring for the elderly.

Visit HospiceofStMarys.org for additional information.

10 | HEALTHY LIVING FALL 2017 HEALTHY LIVING FALL 2017 | 11 “When in doubt, sit them out.” - Christian Glaser, DO

Endorsed by the MedStar St. Mary’s Hospital Whether speaking at the Coaches Athletic Safety Course in Prince George’s County, St. Mary’s County Public School Education Day or St. Mary’s Ryken High School, Dr. Glaser promotes the Centers for Disease Control guideline: “When in doubt, sit them out.” In short, err on the side of caution. Young athletes, especially, need to be protected. “In youth sports, there is no pressure to Patients Step Up to Go the Distance get athletes back into the game,” said Dr. Glaser. “There is no need to risk brain Ophelia Lewis knew what to expect following her total knee replacement surgery in early July. damage.” However, something new awaited her and it was just what she needed to get her moving. There is no cookie-cutter remedy for a concussion. Some students simply Nautical-themed icons now line Hospital leadership on the Patient and require academic modifications; others the hallway on the second floor Family Advisory Council on Quality and may require more extensive services and where orthopaedic patients Safety (PFACQS) learned about the consults. landmarks from community member reside following surgery. COPING WITH Sara’s first step to recovery was a Kathleen Hammet. The Hollywood Prior to their discharge, recommendation to totally unplug — no resident comes from a medical patients who have had total phone, no electronics and no sports or military family and has visited many hip or knee replacement surgery exercise. different facilities herself. As a result of should walk at least 100 feet and the Kathleen’s own experience in using a visual marker system, CONCUSSIONS “When I went back to school, it was with markers provide visual cues so patients can see the rehabilitation team at MedStar St. Mary’s decided restrictions. I wasn’t to do any of the Sara Rutledge preferred playing soccer Christian Glaser, DO, with MedStar their progress. The distance markers also take the to implement a similar approach to measure a patient’s work or use the computers,” she said. to taking ballet lessons even as a guesswork out of a patient’s progress. progress. Medical Group at Charlotte Hall, preschooler. At age four, she started confirmed that Sara suffered a “We do put a lot of academic restrictions “The markers let me know exactly how far I needed on students to keep symptoms as little The icons, created by the hospital’s marketing team in playing recreational soccer. She was concussion. A specialist in internal and to go and how far I’d been,” said Ophelia Lewis, honor of our county’s Chesapeake Bay heritage, went up as possible, but want to keep them in on a soccer travel team by the time sports medicine, Dr. Glaser is a team who didn’t have the benefit of the walking in early April. Director of Rehabilitation Medicine Virginia their social environment,” Dr. Glaser she was nine. Now, at 17, Sara plays or doctor for DC United landmarks for her first knee replacement. Morris, OTR/L, MPH, and her team are extremely pleased acknowledged. Once practices soccer year-round with the and the Maryland Jockey with results. And 100 percent of the total knee and hip Thomas Stone High School varsity team fully integrated back into “I wasn’t an actual sick person,” Ophelia said. “I Club. Signs of a possible replacement patients who have used the markers passed during the school season and with the academics, they can usually thought I should make room for someone else. their 100-feet walking requirement. Virginia said they’ve Maryland United Premiere 2000 team “You have to have the concussion include: begin to prepare for a return And, I wanted to be home.” The markers did the received positive feedback from patients and their physical off season. “I love soccer,” said Sara. right mechanism of to athletics. trick for the Leonardtown resident. “Every time I therapists. • Headaches During a game in early May, an injury for a concussion,” “Dr. Glaser was really good was going down the hall, I would think to myself, “It’s encouraging to see that the PFACQS program really opponent’s shoulder struck Sara in Dr. Glaser said. “Most • Dizziness at helping me understand I’ve got to get to that shell or whatever marker helps implement patient friendly improvements and the head. common, especially in • Lightheadedness what was happening and was down the way. It was such a great way to that this program is making a real difference contact sports, is a hit how to deal with it. He made “I must have blacked out,” she said. motivate myself.” for our patients,” she said. on the head and a loss • Inability to focus/ me think about what he was “For a brief moment, I couldn’t see, of consciousness. These concentrate telling me,” Sara said. everything went black. I didn’t pass out or fall down so no one knew offer a high prediction It’s a good thing, too. what happened.” for concussion.” Another hit in the head However, individuals caused a second concussion shortly Help create positive change. If you or a family member experienced care at MedStar St. Mary’s, Being a competitive athlete, Sara didn’t don’t always lose consciousness and after Sara returned to playing soccer. say anything and continued to play. come and join PFACQS. Share your experience, good or bad, with hospital leadership. We are your may feel fine after a hit, so they should This time she knew to drop out of the She didn’t tell anyone until the next community hospital and your input makes a difference. PFACQS meets once a quarter. Dinner is always be evaluated. game. day about the headache that provided. Visit MedstarStMarys.org/PFACQS or call 301-475-6008 for more information. kept getting worse. Visit MedStarStMarys.org/Concussions for more information.

12 | HEALTHY LIVING FALL 2017 HEALTHYHEALTHY LIVING LIVING FALL FALL 2017 2017 | | 13 Learning to Live Better WORKSHOP HELPS THOSE LIVING WITH CHRONIC CONDITIONS MANAGE THEIR SYMPTOMS Last fall, Judy Owens just wasn’t feeling quite herself. Having had a stent placed in her heart about 10 years ago, the Lexington Park resident had started to experience shortness of breath and was looking for a program to help her deal with her chronic heart condition. Luckily for Judy, her sister who was undergoing cardiac rehabilitation, had heard about a workshop starting at MedStar St. Mary’s Hospital called Living Well with Chronic Conditions. “I was feeling ... not bad, but like I needed something to help me feel better,” said Judy, who went to the workshop with her sister. The fall session had about eight other people enrolled in the course, she said, some of whom had heart conditions like Judy and her sister, others who were prediabetic or had breathing issues. SHAPING OUR FUTURE “We talked about food, exercise, breathing, taking time out for yourself, stress and how to calm yourself down,” Judy said. “We all had about the same feelings and worries, and the workshop really helped.” $180,000 Awarded to Local Students Judy said the instructors for the group were wonderful and willing to talk about what was important to the group, not just what Pursing Healthcare Careers they had planned. She learned so much from the experience, she is considering taking the workshop again. “There will be different people with different questions,” Judy said. “It was interesting hearing what other people had gone through and what they did and how it helped them.” On behalf of the community, the hospital’s Foundation recently hosted its annual reception to recognize 10 students FREE WORKSHOPS BY MEDSTAR ST. MARY’S HOSPITAL STANFORD CHRONIC DISEASE who were awarded scholarships and their families who support them in their pursuit of a healthcare career. Generous SELF-MANAGEMENT PROGRAM supporters of the hospital’s Foundation Gala have enabled the program to provide 142 scholarships to Southern Gain self-confidence in your ability to manage your Maryland students since 2001. The funds are used to help defer the costs of tuition, books and fees associated with chronic health conditions with more than three decades their degree or certification. of experience from the Stanford Patient Education BAILEY SCHNEIDER Research Center, part of the Department of Medicine BRENNA DUKE MEGAN LONG Mechanicsville, MD at the Stanford University School of Medicine. These Hollywood, MD Mechanicsville, MD Appalachian State self-management programs are offered once a week for University of Mount Union Virginia Commonwealth University Speech-Language Pathology six weeks. Each participant in the workshop receives a Nursing Physical Therapy copy of the companion book, Living a Healthy Life With Chronic Conditions, 4th Edition. The workshops are SYDNEY GUTHRIE JESSICA THOMPSON LIVING WELL WITH LIVING WELL WITH HAYLEY MESMER highly interactive, focusing on building skills, sharing California, MD Hollywood, MD DIABETES Lexington Park, MD CHRONIC CONDITIONS experiences, and support. Towson University St. Francis University Lynchburg University Occupational Therapy Physical Therapy Nursing

Visit MedStarStMarys.org/Calendar for JORDAN JANSCHEK CASSANDRA OLIVER KYLEE WICKLINE more information on upcoming Stanford Mechanicsville, MD Hollywood, MD Callaway, MD Chronic Disease Self-Management Programs Towson University Misericodia University York College of PA Nursing Occupational Therapy Nursing or call 301-475-6019.

SEE OUR CALENDAR ON PAGES 18 AND 19 DANA KING The Foundation scholarship is open to residents Lusby, MD FOR UPCOMING CLASS SCHEDULES. of St. Mary’s, Charles and Calvert counties who are CANCER: LIVING WELL WITH Salisbury University pursuing the fields of nursing and allied health. THRIVING & SURVIVING HIGH BLOOD PRESSURE Nursing Applications are accepted each spring. Visit MedStarStMarys.org/Foundation to learn more.

14 | HEALTHY LIVING FALL 2017 HEALTHYHEALTHY LIVING LIVING FALL FALL 2017 2017 | | 15 MedStar News Briefs An Epidemic Hits Home IMPROVING FOR YOU St. Mary’s County not immune This fall, several large construction and technology upgrade projects will begin at MedStar St. Mary’s to devastating effects of Opioid epidemic Hospital.  New flooring will be installed on the second This is the third in a four-part series on the opioid epidemic in our community. and third floors  Extensive renovations and expansion of our As an Emergency Medical resident with MedStar Georgetown University Hospital, Eric Kiechle, Atrium dining area will begin MD, was prepared to treat patients coming to the D.C. hospital who had overdosed on opioids  Computer cabling will be run to improve or heroin. But during a rural emergency medical rotation at MedStar St. Mary’s Hospital, a ride and enhance our network infrastructure to along with the Lexington Park Volunteer Rescue Squad gave him a different perspective. support expansion of our electronic systems We appreciate your patience as we make these “Walking into a home where people are overdosing really put things in perspective for  New interior wayfinding signage will be installed improvements to help us better serve you. me,” Eric said. “I could see that the opioid and heroin epidemic has hit the area pretty hard. HOSPITAL LABORATORY  A large air handler unit will be replaced CENTRALIZES SERVICES Obviously, I see it in D.C., but seeing it here was eye-opening to me.” Just as in other areas of the country, St. Mary’s County continues to deal with the impact of MedStar St. Mary’s Hospital’s Laboratory the opioid and heroin crisis. In June, St. Mary’s saw its first overdose from the powerful drug Department is working to consolidate centers carfentanil, a synthetic opioid 10,000 times stronger than morphine and 100 times more in order to provide greater efficiencies among HOSPITAL RECEIVES LABOR AND DELIVERY AWARD potent than fentanyl. services. The Charlotte Hall location was closed MedStar St. Mary’s Hospital recently received Healthgrades 2017 In the first half of 2017, the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office has responded to 14 overdose in July. Patients needing laboratory services Labor and Delivery Excellence Award™. According to Healthgrades, should visit the Belmont Building on Moakley deaths all linked to the use of — or a combination of — heroin, cocaine, fentanyl and/or the leading online resource for comprehensive information about carfentanil. Street in Leonardtown or the center located physicians and hospitals, this distinction places MedStar St. Mary’s “On the law enforcement front, we are going after the drug dealers, and if we can identify a in the Chesapeake Charter School Building in Hospital within the top 10 percent of all hospitals evaluated for the dealer in a fatal overdose, we’re going to work with the State’s Attorney’s Office to hold those Lexington Park. exceptional care of mothers during labor and delivery. dealers responsible,” said Capt. Eric Sweeney, Vice/Narcotics. “Our approach to the opioid Visit MedStarStMarys.org/Laboratory “Welcoming a child into the world is a special time in a family’s life,” epidemic is comprehensive: we are investigating, we are arresting, and we are educating.” for more information and laboratory hours of said Christine Wray, president of MedStar St. Mary’s Hospital. “Our operation. The sheriff’s office works closely with the St. Mary’s County Health Department, MedStar Women’s Health & Family Birthing Center’s staff recognizes this and St. Mary’s Hospital, St. Mary’s County Public Schools, the Young Marines, and other county works diligently to ensure the health and well-being of all of our organizations to host prevention programs. Its headquarters in Leonardtown is also a mothers and their babies.” collection site for unwanted medications through an anonymous 24/7 drop-box program. This initiative ensures proper disposal of medications, so they never enter the streets and minimizes the opportunity for an individual to become a target of crime by having unused AUXILIARY medications in their home. Additionally, every September the MEDSTAR PHARMACY Sheriff’s Office collects medications directly from the homebound HOLDING AVAILABLE TO ALL who otherwise may not have the opportunity to dispose of their FUNDRAISER unused medications. MedStar Pharmacy — located inside the IN NOVEMBER Every deputy at the sheriff’s office is equipped with and trained to hospital’s Emergency entrance — has been use naloxone (Narcan). The sheriff’s office responded to 106 non- proudly serving our community since it

OPIOIDS lethal opioid overdoses in the first half of 2017 and administered The MedStar St. Mary’s Hospital Auxiliary will be opened last year. MedStar Pharmacy offers 99 doses of Narcan to 50 recipients. In 2016, only 49 doses of holding a “Brown Bag Auction” Friday, Nov. 3, everyone — outpatients, walk-ins, hospital Narcan were administered by deputies. Since 2011, the from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. in the hospital’s front associates and patients — friendly and sheriff’s office has lobby. Participants will have the chance to win dependable prescription drug services and “What we see on the streets is that this epidemic does not collected more than discriminate — it impacts all ages, genders, backgrounds, and items by purchasing tickets and placing them various over-the-counter medications. 1.3 million pills races. This is a nationwide problem and St. Mary’s County is not in the corresponding brown bag. Winners will through its drug take Hours of operation are Monday through Friday immune,” said Sheriff Tim Cameron. “If you have a family member be announced following a drawing around 4 back program. Call from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. for prescription refills or friend struggling with addiction, please get them help. It’s a 301-475-4041 p.m. The event will also feature a bake sale, or transfers. Call 240-434-7351 or visit horrible epidemic, and the help is out there.” to learn more. quilt raffle, cookbook sale and craft corner. MedStarStMarys.org/MedStarPharmacy B’nai Stemley, PharmD Proceeds from the event will help fund hospital Visit MedStarStMarys.org/Opioids for more improvements designed to add comfort and information on lifesaving resources and information. support to patients and their families. Visit MedStarStMarys.org/Newsroom for more MSMH news.

16 | HEALTHY LIVING FALL 2017 HEALTHYHEALTHY LIVING LIVING FALL FALL 2017 2017 | | 17 Childbirth Living Well with Family & Friends CPR FALL 2017 & Family Education High Blood Pressure (CS-016100) Health Oct. 2, 6 p.m., Health Connections Oct. 18, 5:30-7:30 p.m., $25 Classes are held in the Outpatient A one-night workshop with information The AHA’s Family & Friends CPR Pavilion. Classes fill quickly; call Connections on managing life with hypertension. Course is a video-based, classroom CALENDAR 301-475-6019. course that teaches adult hands-only Call 301-475-6019 to register. CPR, adult AED use, child CPR and Parents-To-Be Yoga AED use and infant CPR. Also teaches MedStar St. Mary’s Health Connections how to relieve choking. Open to those offers the following in-depth series of Classes begin Sept. 21 and continue who do not need a course completion classes on becoming a parent. for 10 weeks in Health Connections. card. Ideal for anyone interested in Instructor is Dr. Bhasker Jhaveri. learning how to save a life. Health Connections Cancer: Thriving & Surviving Living Well with Diabetes • Baby Care and Beyond* To register, call 301-475-6019. Support Groups Sept. 11, 1 p.m., Northern Senior Center; Tuesdays starting Sept. 12, 6 p.m., Sept. 18, Oct. 2 & Nov. 6, 6 p.m., Oct. 26, 1 p.m., Loffler Senior Center Health Connections $15/couple, $25/web-based*. Yoga for Better Breathing Pulmonary Alzheimer’s Offered to cancer survivors and their This six-week workshop can help Teaches practical skills like bathing Thursdays at 3:30 p.m., $50 Better Breathers Club individuals with diabetes manage this Seated yoga that helps manage stress, Sept. 26, Oct. 24 & Nov. 28, 6:30 p.m., family and friends, topics discussed and diapering, combined with Oct. 26 & Dec. 28, noon, Health during this six-week program include condition, carry out normal activities, combat asthma, COPD, high blood Wildewood’s Spring Village, ways to enhance your baby’s brain Connections healthy eating, managing stress, add healthy activities to their lives and development. pressure and depression. Individuals with pulmonary disease, California, Maryland manage emotional changes. exercise, working with healthcare such as COPD, learn breathing Call 301-475-6019 to register. • Breastfeeding Basics Yoga Bariatric Surgery providers, managing emotions and techniques, home health care and Sept. 11, Oct. 9 & Nov. 13, 6 p.m., Thursdays at 4 or 5 p.m., $80 Second Saturday of each month, relationships, communications skills, exercise in this free program offered $15/couple. Start at your own level and ability. Sept. 9, Oct. 14 & Nov. 11, and coping with effects of treatment. Exercise, Nutrition & in partnership with the American Lung • Childbirth* — Sept. 23 & Oct. 28, Experience the relaxing benefits of 10 to 11 a.m., Health Connections Call 301-475-6019 to register. Weight Management Association. Call The Grace Anne gentle movement. 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., $55/couple. Dorney Center at 240-434-7143. Breastfeeding Moms Diabetes Education MedFit Program Tuesdays and Thursdays, 7:15 a.m. *Web-based options are available as a refresher American Heart Smoking Cessation Classes Weekly on Wednesdays, Take Control of Diabetes to 5 p.m.; Mondays and Wednesdays, course or for those who cannot attend traditional Association Classes Oct. 10 to Nov. 28, 6 to 7 p.m., 10 a.m. to noon, Health Connections 2:30 to 5 p.m., open gym at classes. Only select classes may apply. with Education Held in the Education and Simulation St. Mary’s County Health Department MedStar St. Mary’s Hospital offers the Grace Anne Dorney Center. Parkinson’s Infant CPR Center, 41550 Doctors Crossing Way, In this eight-week program, you American Diabetes Association- Medically-oriented gym exercise Oct. 10 & Nov. 14, 5 to 6 p.m., Sept. 25, 5:30 p.m., Education and Leonardtown. Register at sitelms.org will gain knowledge about your recognized programs to individuals program to assist with sedentary lifestyle with registration codes (below). For smoking habit along with behavioral Health Connections and groups. Because the program is changes and disease management, Simulation Center, $15/person. including hypertension, diabetes, information, call 202-643-1841 or modifications, stress management and recognized by the ADA, the services Safe Sitter Stroke Survivors cholesterol, obesity and COPD. Cost is email [email protected]. cease-smoking techniques. All classes are covered by Medicare, Medicaid Oct. 21, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., Third Tuesdays of each month, $30 per month, or $75 for three months. are free of charge with medication to and most private insurance plans. Health Connections, $65 Heartsaver CPR/AED Sept. 19, Oct. 17 & Nov. 21, Call 240-434-7143. help you quit. Visit SMCHD.org for Call 301-475-6019 to learn more. Adolescents 12-14 learn babysitting tips, (CS-018659) 5:30 p.m., Health Connections more information or future dates, or basic first aid and CPR. Sept. 16 (8 a.m. to noon); Sept. 21 (5 to call 301-475-4330. Simple Changes (Prediabetes) Body Composition Analysis 9 p.m.); Oct. 21 (8 a.m. to noon); Nov. 11 Cancer Care Sept. 20, 5:30 to 6:30 p.m., By appointment only, Health Connections Live Your Life Your Way, and Nov. 18 (8 a.m. to noon); Dec. 2 (8 Overdose Response Program Health Connections Analysis includes an in-depth look at Cancer Support Group Manage Your Symptoms a.m. to noon); Dec. 14 (5 to 9 p.m.), $50 Sept. 7, 6 p.m., Lexington Park Library Participate in our year-long class body composition. Cost is $15. First and third Wednesdays of Learn CPR, how to use an AED and Sept. 13, 6 p.m., St. Mary’s County designed to eliminate possible diabetes Call 301-475-6019. Living Well with Chronic foreign object airway obstruction Health Department, Leonardtown each month, 7 to 8:30 p.m., risk factors by making simple, healthier Conditions removal for adults, children and infants. The St. Mary’s County Health Cancer Care & Infusion Services. changes in your life. Our program Senior­ Wellness & Events Oct. 9, 6 p.m., Health Connections Certification card upon completion. Department is offering a free Overdose Call 240-434-7247. includes free body composition Senior Gold Card Luncheon Do you have on-going conditions such Response Program. Participants will screenings, handouts, giveaways and Sept. 7 & Oct. 5, noon to 2 p.m., as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, Heartsaver First Aid (Li-016094) learn how to administer naloxone and Look Good, Feel Better lifestyle coaching support between Health Connections. asthma, cardiovascular disease or diabetes Nov. 11 (12:30 to 3:30 p.m.); $35 care for someone until emergency Sept. 13, Oct. 11 & Nov. 8, 7 p.m. sessions. Cost is $99. This one-year Free educational programs and lunch. that are difficult for you to manage? This Learn critical skills to respond to and help arrives. Visit SMCHD.org/ program is a combination of weekly Outpatient Pavilion, Cancer Care Call 301-475-6019 to register. six-week workshop will teach you different manage emergencies until EMS arrives. overdose or contact Jessica Hartman and monthly sessions. & Infusion Services tools to help you manage long-term For anyone with limited or no medical at [email protected] or Free program with National conditions impacting your daily living. training. Certification upon completion. 301-475-4297. Cosmetology Association and the BLOOD DRIVE Call 301-475-6019 to register. American Cancer Society to help Tuesday, Sept. 12 female cancer patients learn hands-on Appointments 9:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Visit MedStarStMarys.org/Calendar to learn more beauty techniques. Call 240-434-7247. WEBSITE Bloodmobile at the Outpatient Pavilion Register in lobby. Call 301-475-6019. about community and support groups.

18 | HEALTHY LIVING FALL 2017 CALENDAR HEALTHY LIVINGHEALTHY FALL LIVING 2017 CALENDAR FALL 2017 | 19 25500 Point Lookout Road NON PROFIT Leonardtown, MD 20650 U.S. Postage PAID MedStarStMarys.org Automated Graphic Systems

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PARTNERING TO EXPAND HEALTH CARE EAST RUN CENTER OPENING THIS FALL

Construction on the building is nearing completion and doors will soon open Community Partners: for the East Run Center, located on Great Mills Road in Lexington Park. The new • The Cherry Cove Group 45,000-square-foot facility will offer a variety of health care services to residents of • Greater Baden Health Services the southernmost regions of the county. Developed by The Cherry Cove Group, • Walden Sierra Behavioral Health MedStar St. Mary’s Hospital has worked closely with our community partners to • Axis Health help bring providers to the center. Offering: “We are excited to be able to be completing a project that will benefit so many in • Primary Care our community,” said Brian Norris, president of The Cherry Cove Group. “The services offered will fill a great need for the residents of this area and make health care • Dental Services accessible and convenient.” • Behavioral Health • Community Education

20 | HEALTHY LIVING FALL 2017