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AHMC Welcomes Nursing Class of 2011 September 9, 2010
AHMC WELCOMES FAMILY NURSE PRACTITIONER September 2, 2010
Ms. Rizzo graduated Magna Cum Laude from the Georgia Baptist Hospital School of Nursing and later graduated Summa Cum Laude from Emory University. She is a member of the American College of Nurse Practitioners. To make an appointment, please call 518.497.6622, or walk-in for same-day care. The health care providers at the Bessette Health Center offer primary and preventive care for adults and children. Other services include well child exams, immunizations, and allergy injections. In addition, blood-draw services are available weekdays from 7:30 - 9:30 a.m., with a health care provider lab slip. The Bessette Health Center, located at 6087 State Route 11 in Chateaugay, is open from 8:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. HMO members require a referral from a primary care provider. Alice Hyde Medical Center Health Centers: Wii Winner Chosen August 27, 2010
Chantelle Marshall, AHMC Director of Philanthropy, presents Anthony Ferraro with the Nintendo Wii. Medical Center offers Chronic Conditions Self-management Program August 27, 2010 Malone—Alice Hyde Medical Center is offering a free 6-session program, Living a Healthy Life with Chronic Conditions, every Wednesday between September 29th and November 3rd. The sessions will take place from 5:30 – 8:30 p.m. in the AHMC Main Floor Conference Room. This course is for anyone who has a chronic health problem such as heart disease, COPD, asthma, diabetes, arthritis, or pain that won’t go away. Caregivers are also welcome to participate. Attendees will learn proven techniques in self-management of chronic conditions. Individuals who have completed the workshop have reported an increase in self-confidence, relaxation, and frequency of exercise as well as a reduction of pain, depression, and physician visits. Benware Scholarship Winner Chosen August 26, 2010
Pictured from left is, Mona Dow, Kary Prue, Kailey Prue, and Clarice Champagne. Volunteer Appreciation Luncheon August 25, 2010
Front row, from left, Ray LaTulipe, Becky Livernois (volunteer director), Lora LaRochelle, Mary Degon, Addie Taro, Jordyn Black, Cassie Stafford, Eleanor Bennett, Carole Holmes, Kathy Evans, Pat Maneely, Margaret Premo, Rob Mules, second row, Robin Traynor, Emily Kemp, Stephanie Haas, Linda Bouissey, Lynda Basiliere, Clarice Champagne, Karen Mahoney, Eva Barber, Theresa Bashaw, Breanna LaMay, Amy Martin, Ashley Decker, Sue Spaulding, back row, Sam Jacobs, Karen Garrow, Cathy Duquette, Jackie Hanna, Andrew Perry, Sheila Ritzmann, Connie Marci, Carrie Glennon, Pat White, and Linda Charland.
Students Enjoy Camp Med 2010 July 30, 2010
Economic Impact of AHMC on the Community July 29, 2010 Alice Hyde Medical Center is proud to provide care to our community. Our doors are open 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 365 days a year. Every year, we serve thousands of individuals and keep our community healthy, strong, and vibrant. This record of service is, and always will be, our most valuable contribution to the community. Click here to view the report. Eat Well Play Hard Coalition Celebrates Accomplishments July 21, 2010 Twenty-nine EWPH mini-grants were awarded in the tri-county region from 2007 to 2010. The 2010 mini-grants were awarded for the following projects: • Holy Family School, Malone - $1,000 for recess equipment The 4-year grant cycle culminated with a regional meeting at Paul Smith’s on Thursday, June 17, where coalition participants received certificates of recognition for their contributions to the EWPH initiative. Kristin Ellis-Wood, AHMC registered dietitian and Josy Delaney, AHMC community wellness specialist, both received certificates of recognition for their participation on the Eat Well Play Hard coalition since its inception in 2006: Kristin Ellis-Wood “for promoting nutrition education to school children and community members through presentations and numerous events; for being a champion of the 1% or Less EWPH strategy; and for facilitating policy and practices changes through the Malone School District Wellness Committee” Josy Delaney received the certificate “for promoting community education about healthy eating and physical activity and for coordinating community events that offer fun family physical activity.” Thank you for spreading the Eat Well Play Hard message to so many groups and individuals.” Eat Well Play Hard is a program of the North Country Healthy Heart Network, Inc., and funded by the New York State Department of Health. 14TH ANNUAL BENEFIT GOLF TOURNAMENT July 27, 2010
WALK FOR A HEALTHY START FOR FAMILIES July 20, 2010 Malone--Alice Hyde Medical Center (AHMC), along with The Breastfeeding Council of Malone, will join other communities throughout New York State to celebrate World Breastfeeding Week by hosting the fourth Annual Breastfeeding Walk. The 30-minute awareness walk will be held at 12:00 p.m. on Wednesday, August 4, 2010. It will start and end at the Medical Center's Main Entrance. The public is invited to attend and show its support for breastfeeding mothers and their infants. During World Breastfeeding Week, August 1-7, the Medical Center will have an information table on display in its Main Lobby. In addition, there will be a “breastfeeding nook” for nursing mothers at the Franklin County Fair (August 7-15), located in the Domestic Arts Building at the fairgrounds. Breastfeeding has a wide range of benefits for mothers, their infants, families and even society in the form of illness prevention, bonding, and environmental concerns. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, United States Department of Health and Human Services, the New York State Department of Health, the United State Department of Agriculture, and many professional health organizations such as the American Academy of Pediatrics encourage mothers to breastfeed their infants exclusively for the first 6 months of life and to continue to breastfeed beyond 12 months. World Breastfeeding Week is a time to celebrate and provide mothers support to breastfeed and give their families a healthier start. There is no registration necessary for the walk, however if you would like further information please contact AHMC’s Education Department at 518-481-2247. CAMP MED AT AHMC July 9, 2010 Malone—Area Middle School students will soon experience a variety of health care careers at Alice Hyde Medical Center. In collaboration with Franklin, Essex, Hamilton BOCES, Alice Hyde Medical Center will be hosting “Camp Med” July 26 through July 30. In this series of half-day events, upcoming 8th and 9th grades students will get a sneak peek at health care career possibilities. “Camp Med” offers these bright students the opportunity to explore and experience real life situations that health care providers encounter everyday. The weeklong schedule will begin with a tour of the Medical Center campus and the remaining time will include extensive visits in the Cardio-Pulmonary Department, Laboratory, Nursing Home, and the Medical Imaging Department.
AHMC Celebrates with the New Visions Class of 2010 6/30/2010
Pictured front from left, Raven Wilson, Malone; Kailey Prue, Malone; Lora LaRochelle, Malone; Lynn Leach, Chateaugay; back row, John Johnson, AHMC President/CEO; Dr. Gib Patenaude, Franklin, Essex, Hamilton BOCES instructor; Ryan Susice, St. Regis Falls; Alexander Honahan, Malone; Mckenzie Bruyere, Malone; Ian Dupey, Malone; Meaghan Lavoie, Malone; Alyssa Farmer, Malone; Kelsey Johnson, Malone; Chris Kormanyos, BOCES Instructor; and Joshua Sevey, Brushton-Moira.
ALICE HYDE MEDICAL CENTER AWARDED ACCREDITATION FROM THE JOINT COMMISSION June 25, 2010 Malone—By demonstrating compliance with The Joint Commission's national standards for health care quality and safety, Alice Hyde Medical Center (AHMC) has earned The Joint Commission's Gold Seal of Approval™. Cancer Survivors Celebrate Life June 20, 2010
Auxiliary June Luncheon Focuses on Organ Donation June 20, 2010
MEN’S HEALTH PANEL ON JUNE 17 June 11, 2010 The Medical Center’s In Touch with Health community wellness program will host a health information panel, Tune Up for Men’s Health, from 6:30 – 7:30 p.m. on Thursday, June 17 at the Wholistic Care Center on the Medical Center campus. Kalpana Reddy from Wholistic Care and Josy Delaney, AHMC Community Wellness Specialist, will join the physician Dr. Marco Berard, Alice Hyde Orthopedic and Sports Medicine Center, in addressing men’s general health issues. This free event is open to the public. Men's Health Month aims to heighten the awareness of preventable health problems and encourage early detection and treatment of disease among men and boys. This month gives health care providers, public policy makers, the media, and individuals an opportunity to encourage men and boys to seek regular check-ups, medical advice, and early treatment for disease and injury. To register for Tune Up for Men’s Health, please call 518-483-2405. The RSVP deadline is June 16. ALICE HYDE CELEBRATES CANCER SURVIVORS June 9, 2010 The Medical Center’s Reddy Cancer Treatment Center is hosting its 12th Annual National Cancer Survivor’s Day Celebration. Malone—A picnic is being held this Friday in celebration of National Cancer Survivor’s Day (NCSD), the world’s largest and fastest growing cancer survivor event. The free event will combine food, fun, friendship, and prize drawings. Prizes, donated by local businesses, include golf packages from the Malone Golf Course and Highland Green, a picnic table from Smith Lumber, a handcrafted quilt, an oil change from Leroux Oil, and gift certificates from Stewart’s, Chez Madeline and Nu-way Carwash. Attendees will also have an opportunity to sign up for this year’s American Cancer Society Relay for Life event being held June 18 at the Franklin County Fairgrounds. This celebration is one of hundreds of events taking place across North America, Canada, and other participating countries to honor cancer survivors and those who support them, and to call attention to the issues of cancer survivorship. All cancer survivors, their loved ones, and caregivers are invited to join Alice Hyde as they celebrate living life to the fullest. The NCSD Foundation defines a cancer survivor as anyone living with a history of cancer – from the moment of diagnosis through the remainder of life. The Foundation reports that an estimated 12 million Americans are cancer survivors. Dairy Month Babies Receive Special Gifts June 8, 2010
Pictured from left is Nathan Ryan holding Rayne, Lisa Lamica holding Nevaeh, and Errolyn Bradley, Dairy Princess. Rayne Rio Marie Ryan, born June 1, 2010 at 8:05 a.m., weighed 7 lbs 3 oz and was 20 inches long The gift basket they received contained: bottles, toys, diapers, PJs, a blanket, and other special items to care for the baby. ALICE HYDE AWARDED ACCREDITATION FROM THE JOINT COMMISSION May 25, 2010
“We sought accreditation for our organization because we want to demonstrate our commitment to patients’ and residents’ safety and quality care,” said John Johnson, AHMC President/CEO . “We view obtaining Joint Commission accreditation as another step toward achieving excellence.” "Above all, the national standards are intended to stimulate continuous, systematic and organization-wide improvement in an organization's performance and the outcomes of care," said Mark Pelletier, R.N., M.S., executive director, Hospital Programs, Accreditation and Certification Services, The Joint Commission. “The community should be proud that Alice Hyde Medical Center is focusing on the most challenging goal -- to continuously raise quality and safety to higher levels." The Joint Commission conducted an unannounced, on-site evaluation of the Medical Center. Johnson spoke of his pride in a staff whose members ask what needs to be done to be accredited by The Joint Commission. "This accreditation is proof of an organization-wide commitment to provide quality care on an ongoing basis." The accreditation award recognizes the Medical Center’s dedication to complying with the Joint Commission’s state-of-the-art standards on a continuous basis. Founded in 1951, The Joint Commission seeks to continuously improve the safety and quality of care provided to the public through the provision of health care accreditation and related services that support performance improvement in health care organizations. The Joint Commission evaluates and accredits more than 15,000 health care organizations and programs in the United States, including more than 8,000 hospitals and home care organizations, and more than 6,800 other health care organizations that provide long term care, assisted living, behavioral health care, laboratory and ambulatory care services. The Joint Commission also accredits health plans, integrated delivery networks, and other managed care entities. In addition, The Joint Commission provides certification of disease-specific care programs, primary stroke centers, and health care staffing services. An independent, not-for-profit organization, The Joint Commission is the nation's oldest and largest standards-setting and accrediting body in health care. Nurses Honored for Service Excellence May 19, 2010
Pictured from left, Jackie Clookey-Bouissey, RN, HDU, Excellence in Best Practice Development; Julie Shantie, RN, Maternity, Excellence in Clinical Care; Taina Marlow, RN, Nurse Manager of Maternity, Excellence Nursing Leadership; Larry Elliott, RN, Med/Surg, Excellence in Education; Jane Sevey, RN, Maternity, Excellence in Service Delivery; Brian Langdon, RN, Nursing Home, Excellence in Community Service, and Pamela Eames, RN, ICU, Excellence in Geriatrics.
Nursing Students Graduate May 19, 2010
Medical Center Improving Energy Efficiency May 12, 2010 Beginning Monday, May 17, Alice Hyde Medical Center will begin an energy efficiency construction project that will include the installation of insulation, an insulated façade, and new windows in the “1960’s” and “1976” buildings located on Park Street, between Third and Fourth Streets. This project is being funded with $500,000 in grants that were secured by Senator Elizabeth O’ C. Little. The project, slated to last less than six months, will not impact vehicle traffic; however, pedestrian traffic will not be allowed in front of the construction site on Park Street, between Third and Fourth Streets. Pedestrians may use the sidewalk on the opposite side of Park Street throughout construction. “This project is possible, in part, due to Senator Little and her understanding that AHMC must have the resources to ensure that we are operating with energy-efficient buildings and with energy-saving action”, said John Johnson, AHMC President/CEO. “As the cost of energy continues to increase we need to be mindful of incorporating energy efficiency on campus and in our daily operations.” GOVERNOR PATERSON PROCLAIMS MAY 12 AS HEALTH CARE AUXILIAN DAY May 7, 2010 The AHMC Auxiliary also received the Healthcare Association of New York State (HANYS) Auxiliary Advocacy Recognition award. The award honors auxiliaries that have committed significant time and effort to serving as advocates for their health care facilities and communities during 2009. To qualify, auxiliaries must meet specific criteria, including participation in HANYS’ legislative letter-writing campaigns and community outreach activities. Through donations of time and funds, the Alice Hyde Medical Center Auxiliary has helped to shape and grow the Medical Center into a true community asset. The Medical Center Board of Directors, Administration, and staff are grateful for this support. In 2009, the Auxiliary donated 41,500.00 to the Medical Center towards the purchase of a head/neck tray unit to aid with ENT surgery in the Operating Room, an Emergency Department covered stretcher, and a new portable acute care dialysis machine. This year, the Auxiliary donated $46,700 for a Bariatric Stretcher for the Ambulatory Surgery Unit, two treatment chairs for the Hastings Hemodialysis Unit, a birthing bed for the Family Maternity Center, a defibrillator for the Operating Room and two patient warming systems for Recovery Rooms. These donations were possible due to monies raised from several Auxiliary fundraising activities including baked-good, uniform, handbag, and book sales. The Auxiliary provides gifts for pediatric and hemodialysis patients and sponsors the “Women’s Health” June luncheon. They also sponsor programs for children and students such as the “We Have a Little Emergency” (WHALE) car seat identification programs, the Camp Med program, the “Mr. Yuk” poison prevention magic shows, and awards annual college scholarships to local students entering the medical field. New York State has more than 75,000 health care auxilians who initiate, fund, and volunteer for a wide variety of patient and family care services—from outpatient clinics to intensive care units. They sponsor health fairs, blood banks and wellness lecture series; raise funds for hospital and nursing home equipment; and organize and underwrite outreach programs in their communities. CAPTION: In 2009, AHMC Auxilians held its fourth annual Thanks-for-Giving day at the Medical Center. The event, which took place throughout the facility, included a quilt raffle (handcrafted by Inge Hinman), raffles, a bake sale, gift shop sale, and gently used coat and new mitten sales. Employees from nearly thirty departments donated items for special themed gift baskets that were raffled at the event. The monies raised helped the Auxiliary to purchase much needed equipment for the Medical Center. Pictured, from left, setting up for the bake sale are auxiliary members, Lynda Basiliere and Karen Mahoney. AHMC Names Volunteer of the Year April 30, 2010
Pictured with Tina Shatlaw (seated) from left, are Volunteer of the Year nominees, Pat White, Rob Mules, Nathalie Symonds, Margaret Premo, Becky Livernois (Director of Volunteers), Sue Spaulding, Marian Leone, and Theresa Lamica. Not pictured is Shelley Lebow.
Putting Play in Their Day! April 26, 2010
Red Hat Society at Nursing Home April 29, 2010 Recently, some of the Alice Hyde Nursing Home Residents gathered for their monthly Red Hat Society meeting. The Red Hat Society is the largest international social organization for women, dedicated to making the world a better place for members by actively promoting and supporting fun, friendship, freedom, fulfillment and fitness for each individual, as well as demonstrating the value and contributions of women to society at large. Far corner, Nancy Warner, Moira Red Hat Society member; Right side (facing), from left, Carol Yeddo, Louise Marlow, Alice Kelly, and Elizabeth Lavier. Left side from left, Erma White, Theresa Lobdell, Colleen Brockway, Val LaPlante, and Florence Sutton.
CELEBRATING NATIONAL HEALTHCARE WEEK April 23, 2010
The theme of this year’s celebration is “Celebrating health, hope, and healing”. “Healthcare Week gives us the opportunity to recognize and thank all of our employees who contribute to the health and well being of the communities we serve,” said John Johnson, AHMC President/CEO. “We are extremely proud of each member of the Medical Center team and recognize the important role they play in caring for our patients and nursing home residents.” This is the 88th anniversary of National Healthcare Week, an event begun in 1921 at the suggestion of a magazine editor who was concerned that the public perceived hospitals as institutions shrouded in secrecy. Today the week-long celebration is the nation’s largest health care event. Alice Hyde Medical Center has several events planned during Healthcare Week including employee celebrations, such as employee years-of-service recognition, nursing excellence awards, a ‘Western’ themed bar-b-que, a cosmic bowl-a-thon, an ice cream social, and contests. Alice Hyde Medical Center has also planned the following free community events (all events held at the Medical Center): “Celebrating health, hope, and healing” Information Table: all week in the Main Lobby May 8th, Babysitter Safety Training: 9:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. Main Lobby (Registration required by May 4, 481-2247) May 10, Free Blood Pressure Screenings: 9:00-10:30 a.m. Main Lobby; Free Glucose Screenings: 1:30 – 2:30 p.m. New Cafeteria Conference Room May 12, American Heart Association Heartsaver CPR AED Class: 6:30-9:30 p.m. Education Classroom-Ground Floor (Registration Required 481-2247)
Promoting National Healthcare Decisions Day April 14, 2010 Malone – Alice Hyde Medical Center (AHMC), along with other national, state and community organizations, are leading a massive effort to highlight the importance of advance health care decision-making—an effort that has culminated in the formal designation of April 16, 2010 as National Healthcare Decisions Day (NHDD). As a participating organization, AHMC is providing information and tools for the public to talk about their wishes with family, friends and healthcare providers, and execute written advance directives (health care proxy and living will) in accordance with New York State laws. To find these resources follow the ‘Palliative Care’ link on www.alicehyde.com/Services. Specifically, from April 16 - 30, AHMC will have an advance care planning resource and information table available in the Medical Center’s main lobby, with free information about advance care planning and forms for advance directives. Dr. Marie-Caroline Piche, Hospice & Palliative Care Specialist, will answer your advance care planning questions in the Medical Center’s main lobby, on: • April 16th from 1:00 – 2:00 p.m. “As a result of National Healthcare Decisions Day, many more people in our community can be expected to have thoughtful conversations about their health care decisions and complete reliable advance directives to make their wishes known,” said Dr. Piche. “Fewer families and health care providers will have to struggle with making difficult health care decisions in the absence of guidance from the patient, and providers and facilities will be better equipped to address advance health care planning issues before a crisis and be better able to honor patient wishes when the time comes to do so.” For more information, contact the Medical Center’s Patient Advocate at 481.2301 or Patient Satisfaction Coordinator at 481.2258. To learn more about National Healthcare Decision Day, please visit www.nationalhealthcaredecisionsday.org.
PUT PLAY IN YOUR DAY April 13, 2010
The free event will offer fun, engaging, and creative activities that foster healthy living, and is a part of the YMCA’s larger efforts to help more kids and families become physically active. All activities are open to the public. Participants can enter to win a Nintendo Wii or a 1-month membership to the YMCA. YMCA Healthy Kids Day will provide ideas for families to make healthy choices daily. There will be fun activities and games for all ages including a Joust Ring and Obstacle Course, Nintendo Wii, ping pong, billiards, foosball as well as yoga and chair massage mini sessions. “Keeping kids healthy is at the core of what Alice Hyde Medical Center’s In Touch with Health program and the Greater Malone YMCA stand for,” said Josy Delaney, AHMC Community Wellness Specialist. “The word ‘exercise’ doesn’t sound very enjoyable to many people, especially kids, but getting them to move more through active play is the key to building healthy habits that last a lifetime. On YMCA Healthy Kids Day, both kids and adults will have the opportunity to get moving, to play and to have fun.” Experts recommend that kids engage in at least 60 minutes of physical activity, including active play, each day. Studies show that kids who consistently engage in play are happier and healthier, and develop and enhance a variety of skills including motor skills, social skills, problem solving, and creativity. Kids who physically play for an hour every day also tend to have higher self-esteem and perform better academically. Here are some simple ways to put more play in your kids’ day, and to get the family moving more, too! 1. Make physical activity a regular part of family playtime – the more active kids are the more likely they are to continue being physically active later in life. “The goal of encouraging kids to play more is to instill a love for physical activity that lasts a lifetime” said Delaney. “Play should not seem like a chore – it is an activity that is fun and brings joy, and allows a kid to just be a kid.” YMCA Healthy Kids Day is funded by the Alice Hyde Medical Center Auxiliary and Excellus Blue Cross Blue Shield. Representatives from North Country Children’s Clinic/IWIC and Cornell Cooperative Extension, with information about Eat Smart NY and the Local Foods Program, will be present. There will also be information about the We Can (Ways to Enhance Children’s Activity and Nutrition) program. More than 700,000 kids and families are expected to participate in YMCA Healthy Kids Day events at nearly 1,500 YMCAs nationwide. For more information about YMCA Healthy Kids Day, please call the Greater Malone YMCA at 518-483-2354.
AHMC Launches Volunteen Program March 25, 2010 AHMC recently started its new Volunteen program. The Volunteen program is an updated version of the traditional “candy striper” program that gives young people the opportunity to explore careers in health care as well as provide services to the Medical Center, patients, and nursing home residents. It also offers the opportunity to learn new skills and interests, and the satisfaction of helping others. Teenagers, ages 13-18, can be recommended for the program by their guidance counselors. Those interested in the program should approach their guidance counselor for further information or call Becky Livernois, Director of Volunteers at AHMC at 518-481-2408. Pictured here, from left, Danielle Gomes, RN, Jamie Psomos, LPN, Jill Benware, RN, Pamela Heath, RN, Katie Chodat, Volunteen, and Nida Encarnacion, RN. Inpatient Dialysis Now Available for AHMC Patients March 22, 2010
The new service provides renal replacement therapy for all inpatients who have complications or require specialized dialysis care. The unit offers standard hemodialysis in a specialized inpatient unit and bedside hemodialysis in the ICU. Hemodialysis is a life-saving treatment for millions of patients worldwide suffering from acute renal failure and chronic renal disease. Before this AHMC service became available, acutely ill patients would have to travel either to Champlain Valley Physicians Hospital CVPH in Plattsburgh, which is approximately 50 miles from Malone, or to Fletcher Allen Health Care (FAHC), which is an estimated 100 miles away in Vermont. At AHMC in 2008, there were 46 patients that had to travel to these facilities for care, and more than 100 AHMC Emergency Department patients had to be transferred to CVPH and FAHC due to their acute care dialysis needs. “The new acute dialysis unit at AHMC is very important for our patients,” said Hani Shahata, MD. Nephrologist. “It is no longer necessary for dialysis patients who need hospitalization to travel outside the area for care.” The new inpatient dialysis, along with Dr. Shahata joining AHMC, has expanded AHMC’s care for patients with kidney disease, including acute renal failure and chronic renal disease. In 2004, AHMC added stations to its Hastings Hemodialysis Unit, which now has 11 outpatient renal dialysis units.
AHMC Auxiliary Sees Green on St. Patty's Day March 18, 2010
Students Donate Winnings to Cancer Center March 12, 2010
Your advocacy is needed now... to protect our Nursing Home residents and Alice Hyde Medical Center. The Governor’s proposed cuts would be devastating to our facility—together, taxes and cuts would mean a loss to Alice Hyde Medical Center of $543,000. Additional taxes and cuts on health care providers will not address the underlying causes of New York's current fiscal problems. Print and Sign the letters to Lt. Governor Richarch Ravitch, Senator Betty Little and Assemblywoman Janet Duprey Click HERE to Download the letters. CHRONIC CONDITIONS SELF-MANAGEMENT PROGRAM March 2, 2010 Malone—Alice Hyde Medical Center is offering a free 6-session program, Living a Healthy Life with Chronic Conditions every Monday between March 15th and April 19th. The sessions will take place from 1:30 – 4:30 p.m. in the AHMC Main Floor Conference Room. This course is for anyone who has a chronic health problem such as heart disease, COPD, asthma, diabetes, arthritis, or pain that won’t go away. Caregivers are also welcome to participate. Attendees will learn proven techniques in self-management of chronic conditions. Individuals who have completed the workshop have reported an increase in self-confidence, relaxation, and frequency of exercise as well as a reduction of pain, depression, and physician visits. Course topics will include: Living a Healthy Life with Chronic Conditions is based on the Chronic Disease Self Management Program developed by Stanford Patient Education Research Center. The Medical Center is partnering with The Eastern Adirondack Health Care Network to offer this program. Enrollment in this workshop is limited. For more information or to register (by March 11, 2010) please contact the AHMC Education Department at 518-481-2247.
HOSPITALIST PROGRAM AT MEDICAL CENTER February 25, 2010
Dr. Robert Cochrane will be the first physician to join Apogee as a full-time Hospitalist. He earned his medical degree from the University of Vermont College of Medicine in Burlington. Dr. Cochrane is board-certified in Internal Medicine. "I am very excited and honored to be chosen to start the Hospitalist program at Alice Hyde Medical Center,” said Dr.Cochrane. “I look forward to working with the primary care physicians in continuing to provide excellent medical care to the community." Hospitalist programs are being introduced at hospitals across the country with more frequency due to the many benefits they provide to patients. “We are confident that this change will not only improve care, but increase patient and family satisfaction with our inpatient care,” said John Johnson, AHMC President/CEO. Generally, Hospitalists have no patient care responsibilities outside the hospital, enabling them to focus exclusively on the acute care patients and their illnesses while hospitalized. Because members of the Hospitalist team are in the hospital, 24/7, they are able to respond quickly to any change in a patient’s condition. Another advantage for patients will be a shortened wait time to be admitted—they will not need to wait for their provider to admit them to the hospital—the Hospitalist facilitates this so care and treatment can start immediately. Patients are not the only ones who benefit from having a doctor available at all times while in the hospital. The Hospitalist program also gives doctors more time to focus on their patients during office visits rather than dividing their time between the hospital and their offices. The AHMC Medical Staff is very supportive of the Hospitalist Program because it means they can spend more time with patients in the office. AUXILIARY WELCOMES NEW PRESIDENT February 12, 2010
“I have enjoyed working with the Auxiliary board over the past years and hope we can be successful in our fundraisers over the next year,” said Maneely. She went on to say, “I feel very proud to become the new President; if I can do half the job our past President (Cathy Duquette) did I will be happy.” Before being elected as Auxiliary President, Pat held various positions on the Auxiliary Board of Directors over ten years. Those positions included serving as Treasurer for six years and as Vice President for the last 4 years. Former Auxiliary President, Cathy Duquette, served from 2005 – 2009. “It has been a pleasure serving as President of the AHMC Auxiliary board and working with so many dedicated board members, Auxilians and volunteers. The giving spirit of the staff and community members and the many new friendships I have encountered have made it a truly rewarding experience. I would like to thank everyone for supporting AHMC, the Auxiliary and our mission. I wish Pat all the best in her new position and I am confident she will do a terrific job,” said Duquette. In 2009, the Auxiliary donated $41,500 to the Medical Center for the purchase of blind replacements in patient rooms on the Medical/Surgical Unit, a head/neck tray unit to aid with ENT surgery in the Operating Room, an Emergency Department covered stretcher, and a new portable acute care dialysis machine. The Auxiliary provides gifts for pediatric and hemodialysis patients and sponsors the “Women’s Health” June luncheon. They also sponsor programs for children and students such as the “We Have a Little Emergency” (WHALE) car seat identification programs, the Camp Med program, the “Mr. Yuk” poison prevention magic shows, and awards annual college scholarships to local students entering the medical field. Through donations of time and funds, the Alice Hyde Medical Center Auxiliary has helped to shape and grow the Medical Center into a true community asset. The Medical Center Board of Directors, Administration, and staff are grateful for this support. DR. SHAHATA RECEIVES BOARD CERTIFICATION February 10, 2010
Dr. Shahata came to Malone from Yonkers, NY, where he completed his fellowship in Nephrology at the Mount Sinai School of Medicine. Dr. Shahata received his Doctor of Medicine degree from the Ain Shams University in Cairo, Egypt, and went on to complete his residency in Internal Medicine at the Mount Sinai School of Medicine. He is a member of Renal Physicians Associations, American Society of Nephrology and National Kidney foundation. Nephrology is a specialty that involves the diagnosis and treatment of kidney diseases, including electrolyte disturbances and high blood pressure, and the care of those requiring kidney replacement therapy, including dialysis and kidney transplant patients. Dr. Shahata is seeing patients at 20 Fourth Street. For more information, please call 518-481-2864.
Wearing Red for Heart Disease Awareness February 8, 2010
Pictured from left, front row, Marsha Bergeron, Nutrition Services; Josy Delaney, Community Wellness Specialist; Kristin Ellis-Wood, RD, Clinical Nutrition Services; Michelle St. Hilaire, RD, Clinical Nutrition Services, second row, Pat Carrigan, Finance; Kay Roy, Nursing Home; Hallie Garland, Clinical Nutrition Services; Linda LaRock, Nursing Home; Anna Stafford, Information Services; Aimee LeRoy, RN, Reddy Cancer Treatment Center; Lydia Brown, Communications/Media Relations; third row, Joel Benware, Chief Information Officer; Linda McClarigan, RN, Senior Vice President of Patient Care Services; Jeanette Tuttle, RN, ICU Nurse Manager; Rebecca Livernois, Director of Volunteers; Deborah Hutchins, Maintenance; Ann Perry, Laboratory; Janice Bilow, Laboratory; Renee Lane, Pharmacy; Ellen Koehler, Pharmacy; Becky Scott, Pharmacy; Alison McCarthy, Nursing Home Activities; Annette Marshall, Director of Philanthropy; Anne Marlowe, Administration; Rebecca Preve, Patient Advocate; back row, Michelle Denny, Nursing Home; Donna Bishop, Director of Health Information Services; Anne McIllhenny, RD, Clinical Nutrition Services; Patty Stark, Clinical Nutrition Services; Julie Marshall, Director of Quality Improvement; Mary Deragon, Pharmacy; Zara Valley, Environmental Services; Ann O’Neil, Health Information Services; Shelly Stone, Health Information Services; Dorothy Zegarelli, Nursing Home Director; Marcy Dow, Health Information Services; Roger Livernois, Director of Maintenance; Sheila Demers, Laboratory; Michael Towle, Chief Financial Officer; Rich VanLeuven, Pharmacy; Deborah Sauve, Materials Management; Debbie Warren, Education; and Jerry Dumas, Education.
Alice Hyde Medical Center to host Wear Red Day January 26, 2010 Malone—February is American Heart Month and Alice Hyde Medical Center (AHMC) will join millions of Americans nationwide in celebrating National Wear Red Day, by inviting its employees and community members to wear red on Friday, February 5, 2010. In addition, the Medical Center’s In Touch with Health community wellness program will provide free blood pressure screenings, heart health information, and risk assessments at the Wear Red Day table in the Medical Center Main Lobby from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. This is the 6th year the Medical Center has participated in Wear Red Day. National Wear Red Day is a day when Americans nationwide wear red to show their support for women's heart disease awareness. Everyone can participate in this life-saving awareness movement by showing off a favorite red dress, shirt, or tie, or by wearing the Red Dress Pin (available at www.heartruth.gov). "Wear Red Day is a great opportunity to alert women in our community about their personal risk factors for coronary disease. We invite businesses, organizations, and community members to join us in wearing red on the 5th—by joining together we can raise awareness locally about heart disease and help lead women on the path to prevention,” said John Johnson, AHMC President/CEO. The Medical Center’s activities are in partnership with The Heart Truth, a national awareness campaign warning women about their risk of heart disease. The campaign is sponsored by the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI), part of the National Institutes of Health (NIH), U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), in partnership with The Office on Women's Health (OWH) and other organizations committed to the health and well-being of women. For more information about Alice Hyde Medical Center’s National Wear Red Day activities or heart disease, please call the Education Department at 481-2247. About The Heart Truth The Heart Truth created and introduced the Red Dress as the national symbol for women and heart disease awareness in 2002 to deliver an urgent wake-up call to American women. The Red Dress® reminds women of the need to protect their heart health, and inspires them to take action. This national campaign is building awareness of women's heart disease and empowering women to reduce and prevent their risk. It is reaching women with important heart health messages in community settings through a diverse network of national and grassroots partner organizations. For more information about women and heart disease, including materials such as The Healthy Heart Handbook for Women and fact sheets about women and heart disease, please visit http://www.hearttruth.gov or call the NHLBI Health Information Center at 301-592-8573. You and Your Health Care Provider: A Heart Healthy Partnership Questions to ask your health care provider:
AHMC LAUNCHES TOTAL JOINT REPLACEMENT PROGRAM January 26, 2010 Clinical professionals at AHMC have designed a program that is focused on the treatment of joint replacement patients, from diagnosis to rehabilitation and recovery. The treatment plan, beginning four to six weeks before surgery, is tailored to the needs of each individual patient. The program begins with the scheduling of surgery, a facility tour, a pre and post-operative needs assessment, and a comprehensive “day of education”—a presentation to patients and their family members by orthopedic surgeons, anesthesiologists, nurses, physical and occupational therapists, case coordinators, and discharge planners. “The better the patient and family are prepared, the better the outcome,” said Linda Mcclarigan, AHMC Senior VP of Patient Care Services. Additionally, the team assists patients with setting up for home recovery, the types of special equipment that may be needed, and how to manage any health issues before surgery. Once surgery is complete, the team works with patients to maximize comfort and begins the rehabilitation and recovery process. In an effort to help patients recover safely and in a timely manner, the Program has dedicated in-patient rehabilitation beds in the Alice Hyde Nursing Home. “Many patients were not aware that they could continue to receive intense therapy services at Alice Hyde Nursing Home,” said Dorothy Zegarelli, Nursing Home Administrator. The program, launched in November, has already provided care to seven patients. According to the Orthopedic Surgeons at the Alice Hyde Orthopedic and Sports Medicine Center, Dr. Marco Berard and Dr. Dragos Macelaru, “The Total Joint Program is dedicated to providing our joint replacement patients with around-the-clock, high quality, compassionate care. After surgery, we use an innovative approach to pain management to ensure patients’ comfort and encourage them to get up and moving as soon as possible. Most patients are walking with an assistive device the morning following surgery and return home within three days of the procedure. With our guidance and proper outpatient physical therapy, they are usually back to work and the activities they enjoy in three to six weeks. Patients who may require more intense therapy after joint replacement may receive the specialized care in a short term rehabilitation bed within Alice Hyde Nursing Home.” To learn more about the program, please contact the Alice Hyde Orthopedic and Sports Medicine Center at 518- 481-2790. | |||||||||||||||||||||
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North Country Community College Nursing Class of 2011 began their clinical rotations of North Country hospitals at Alice Hyde Medical Center. These students are Licensed Practical Nurses who are pursuing their Professional Registered Nurse status. The students, pictured from left are, Heather Latulipe, Kristin Meadows, Jamie Clookey, Brandy Blanchard, Stephanie Duffy, Amy Tedford, second row, Rachel Holcomb, Jessica Marshall, Emily Doyle, Jepper Devlin, Jenna Chontosh, Tracy Scott, third row, Victoria Fiore, Cynthia Strack, Emily LaBarge, Sara Posdzich, Julie Peacock, Josee King, fourth row, Cortney Bushey, Terri Fuller, Anne Hallahan-Tyo, Heather Martin, Joe York, Alexandra Borders, fifth row, Lelah Lavene, Christine Barbour, Kevin OReilly, Theresa Hartford, Michelle Jondo, Ted Palmer, row six, Jessica Sovie, Melissa Farnsworth, Nina Banker, Jessica Bousquet, Mickey McLaughlin, Cathleen Gokey, back row, Kevin Shiflett, Nichole Morin, Brandy Hope, Trish Shaw, and NCCC Instructor Judith Genaway, RN, MS.
Malone—Laura Rizzo, Family Nurse Practitioner, has joined the Alice Hyde Medical Center medical team and is providing care at the Bessette Health Center in Chateaugay, NY. 
And the winner is….Anthony Ferraro. Ferraro, a resident of Bangor, won a Nintendo Wii system, Wii Fit Plus, Balance Board, and Bonus Fitness Kit, courtesy of Alice Hyde Medical Center, at the 2010 Franklin County Fair. By completing a survey: “Did you know Alice Hyde Medical Center employs more than 650 people within our community?” and “Did you know that Alice Hyde Medical Center is a not-for-profit organization?”, people were entered into the drawing. “I’m very delighted to win the Wii—it pays to go to the fair,” said Ferraro.
The Thelma Benware Scholarship is being awarded by her daughter, Mona Dow, to Kailey Prue, a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) student at North Country Community College. Kailey is the daughter of Frank and Kary Prue and graduated from Franklin Academy in June 2010. This is a new scholarship in memory of Mrs. Benware who was an LPN at Alice Hyde Medical Center for many years. Family and friends have and may continue to donate to this scholarship through the Medical Center Auxiliary: Attention Mrs. C. Champagne.
Alice Hyde Medical Center recently held an appreciation B-B-Q luncheon to honor the many dedicated volunteers who contribute to the success of the Medical Center. A special meal was prepared and gifts were given to each of the volunteers. John Johnson, President/CEO of the Medical Center, addressed the volunteers with a special message of thanks on behalf of the Board of Directors, Administration and staff. Attendees were entertained by Andrew Perry with a special tap and clogging performance. Pictured are just a few of the 90+ volunteers that dedicate their time on a regular basis to Alice Hyde Medical Center and their community.
Joe Arno, Abby Flint and Katie Secore (pictured from left to right) look on as Mike Derouchie, Laboratory Technician, encases a specimen in hot wax. A total of 12 local area students, going into the eighth and ninth grades this fall, had the opportunity to explore health care jobs through firsthand experience thanks to a collaborative effort by BOCES and AHMC's Education and Human Resources Departments. The program, Camp Med, brought local students into the Medical Center to tour departments, complete science activities, and participate in a mock emergency. 
Eat Well Play Hard (EWPH) is a tri-county coalition (Franklin/Essex/Hamilton counties) that works to promote physical activity and healthy eating through policy and environmental change. The goal is to prevent childhood overweight and reduce long-term chronic disease risks of children over the age of two. Following an extensive community assessment in 2006, project categories were selected by the coalition members including: school policy, community design, after school programs, and physical activity trainings in child care settings.
Alice Hyde Medical Center’s 14th Annual Benefit Golf Tournament was a great success. The tournament, held at the Malone Golf Club, raised over $33,000. The funds raised will support and enhance vital services and programs at the Medical Center. Pictured from left, Mary Beth Scheideggar, Mary Kay Tulloch, Lucie LaPlante, and Eileen Killcullen.
The recent graduation of twelve students from the BOCES New Vision program marked another successful year. During the year-long program, students from schools across northern Franklin County learned about the various aspects of the medical field through clinical rotations at Alice Hyde Medical Center while at the same time earning their high school diplomas. This year's graduates were from Malone, Chateaugay, St. Regis Falls, and Brushton-Moria Schools. A special ceremony in honor of the students' successful completion of the program was held in the Nursing Home..jpg)
They came to celebrate life. And celebrate they did—shaking hands, smiling and greeting one another like war veterans at a reunion. Their war, though, is against cancer. They're survivors...READ MORE 
The Alice Hyde Medical Center Auxiliary recently hosted its annual June luncheon at the Malone Golf Course. Jennifer Salm, Organ Procurement Coordinator at the Center for Donation & Transplants in Albany, spoke about the importance of organ donation and transplantation. This year the Auxiliary donated $46,700 to the Medical Center and awarded $7,900 in scholarships to local students.
Errolynn Bradley, 16, Franklin County Dairy Princess, kicks off National Dairy Month by presenting a gift basket to Lisa Lamica and Nathan Ryan, of Malone, to honor the birth of their twin daughters, Rayne Rio Marie Ryan and Neveah Beverly Hope Ryan, the first babies born at Alice Hyde Medical Center in June. 
By demonstrating compliance with The Joint Commission‘s national standards for health care quality and safety, Alice Hyde Medical Center (AHMC) has earned the Joint Commission’s Gold Seal of Approval™.
Alice Hyde Medical Center celebrated the tenth Annual Nursing Excellence Awards in May, during National Healthcare Week. The Nursing Administration recognized the following nurses for upholding the AHMC Mission of “Providing Quality Healthcare with dignity and compassion to those we serve” and the Nursing Philosophy.
Twenty-six students from the North Country Community College Practical Nursing Program, Class of 2010, successfully completed their final clinical rotation at Alice Hyde Medical Center. Following graduation these students will be eligible to take the New York State licensing exam enabling them to work in the health care community as Licensed Practical Nurses. Pictured front row, from left, Kirstie, LaVare, Victoria Fiore, Jamie Clookey, Morgan Chevier, Nichole Oakes, second row, Mandy Marshall, Christine Gibbs, Charlene White, Jenna Chontosh, Stephanie Duffy, Samantha Clark third row, Brooke Aubertine, Ann Hallahan, Jessica Marshall, Kelly Wilson, fourth row, Terri Fuller, Lelah Lavene, Michelle LaChance, Cassandra Jordon, fifth row, Mickey McLaughlin, Heather Martin, Nina Banker, Joe York sixth row, Mark Harmon, Michael Chapman, Lori Ann Sweet seventh row, NCCC Instructors Sue McElwain, and Lorraine White.
Malone—Governor David Paterson proclaimed May 12, 2010 as Health Care Auxilian Day in New York State to recognize the dedicated Auxilians who annually donate more than five million hours of service to their health care facilities and to their communities.
Tina Shatlaw was named Volunteer of the Year at Alice Hyde Medical Center for her work in the Holme’s Rehabilitation Department. Shatlaw was honored for her spirit of giving, dedication, and contribution to the department’s success. As Volunteer of the Year, she received a flower arrangement donated by Nelson’s Florist, a $50 gift card from Walmart, donated by the AHMC Auxiliary, and a certificate. Her name appears on a “Volunteer of the Year” plaque that is on display in Medical Center’s main lobby. This is the first Volunteer of the Year award presented by Alice Hyde Medical Center.
Local kids have fun and get exercise at the same time thanks to this bouncy house at the Greater Malone YMCA. The Y and Alice Hyde Medical Center teamed up on April 24 to participate in a national activity, YMCA Healthy Kids Day. Activities such as bouncy houses and games were offered, and stations of information on health and wellness were provided.
During National Healthcare Week, (May 8 - 14) Alice Hyde Medical Center is hosting a series of events for employees and community members in recognition of the key role played by the Medical Center staff in caring for the community..jpg)
Malone—As part of a nationwide effort to encourage kids to be more active, Alice Hyde Medical Center’s (AHMC) In Touch with Health community wellness program will partner with the Mary-Claire Sherwin Greater Malone YMCA to host YMCA Healthy Kids Day on Saturday, April 24 from 1:00 to 4:00 p.m. The theme this year is “Put play in your day”.
Malone—Acute care dialysis is now available for medical/surgical and intensive care unit (ICU) patients at Alice Hyde Medical Center (AHMC).
The Alice Hyde Medical Center Auxiliary was seeing a lot of ‘Green’ on St. Patrick’s Day. The Auxiliary held a bake sale, ‘Basket of Cheer’ raffle, plant sale, which included green carnations and shamrock plants, to benefit the Medical Center. The monies raised will help the Auxiliary to purchase much needed equipment for the Medical Center. Pictured, selling green carnations and shamrock plants, is Cindy Soper, Auxiliary member, Pat Maneely, Auxiliary President, and Bev Marsden, Auxiliary member.
A group of Middle School students from Malone recently won first prize in the Annual Students Against Drunk Driving (SADD) Lip sync Contest. The group, ‘Monster Mash’, won $100 and donated the funds to the Alice Hyde Reddy Cancer Treatment Center. Pictured from left is, Carrie Pomainville, Morgan Bronner, Tommy Garland, Jayne Tracy, Marissa Perez, Brooke Peck, Brooke Bronner, Annette Marshall, AHMC Director of Philanthropy, and William Bronner. Missing from the photo is the group’s choreographer, Angela Grimshaw.
Malone—Alice Hyde Medical Center (AHMC) is implementing a Hospitalist Program on March 1st in collaboration with the nationally renowned physician group, Apogee Physicians.
The AHMC Auxiliary is pleased to welcome Pat Maneely as the new Auxiliary president for the 2010 - 2011 term. Pat, who has been an Auxilian for more than 10 years, resides in the village of Malone with her husband Howard.
Dr. Hani Shahata, board certified in Internal Medicine, has just received his board certification in Nephrology from the American Board of Internal Medicine.
February is American Heart Month and Alice Hyde Medical Center employees joined millions of Americans nationwide in celebrating National Wear Red Day. Red is worn to raise awareness that Heart Disease is the #1 killer of women. In addition, the In Touch with Health community wellness program gave free blood pressure screenings, risk assessments, and heart health information to employees and community members.