Health

Health 07-09-14

July 10, 2014 By Mary Rathman

Gulfside offers bereavement group
Gulfside Hospice’s bereavement department is starting a new 10-week support group for those who are newly bereaved.

The first cycle begins July 10 at 1 p.m., at Harvester United Methodist Church, 2432 Collier Parkway in Land O’ Lakes. The second starts Aug. 6 at 4 p.m., at Gulfside’s east clinical office, 37826 Sky Ridge Circle, in Dade City.

For information, called Erica Warren at (727) 992-8357.

Summer blood drive
Regional Medical Center Bayonet Point, 14000 Fivay Road in Hudson, will host a summer blood drive July 10 from noon to 5 p.m.

All donors will receive a wellness checkup and a beach towel. Photo ID is required.

Those who donate twice before Aug. 31 can receive a free lunch offer from Outback Steakhouse.

To make an appointment online, visit OneBloodDonor.org, and use sponsor code “0B034.”

Super-prep childbirth
The obstetrics program at Medical Center of Trinity, 9330 State Road 54, is offering a childbirth super-prep class July 12 from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

This is a one-day accelerator/refresher course.

Cost is $50 per person.

Seating is limited, and reservations are required.

For information, call (727) 834-5630.

Fat loss seminar
The Health & Wellness Center at Florida Hospital Wesley Chapel, 2700 Healing Way, is hosting a seminar on optimizing fat loss July 15 at 6:30 p.m.

Guest speaker is Matthew Luckie. The seminar will cover research-backed strategies that include current practices in fitness, nutrition and lifestyle.

Space is limited, and reservations are required.

Cost is $5 for non-members and free for health center members.

To register, call (813) 929-5432, or visit FHWesleyChapel.org/events.

‘Look Good’ cancer program
The Medical Center of Trinity, 9330 State Road 54, is offering the American Cancer Society’s “Look Good … Feel Better” program July 16 at 2 p.m.

The program includes educational information as well as wigs, hats, turbans and prostheses.

To RSVP, call (727) 834-5630.

Breast cancer support
Florida Cancer Affiliates will host breast cancer support group meetings every other Thursday at 6 p.m., at the New Port Richey center, 5500 Little Road.

The next meeting is July 17.

For information, call (727) 505-6379.

Gulfside orientations
Gulfside Hospice & Pasco Palliative Care is hosting orientation for all new East Pasco volunteers July 17-18 from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., at Gulfside’s Center for Hospice Care, 5760 Dean Dairy Road.

Volunteers must be at least 15 years old. Opportunities are available at the thrift shops, in the kitchen and serving meals, answering phones and greeting visitors, patient care, and spiritual care.

Space is limited, and reservations are required.

For information, call Jennifer Ball or Tracey Thompson at (813) 780-1235.

‘I Quit’ at Florida Hospital Zephyrhills
Florida Hospital Zephyrhills, 7050 Gall Blvd., is offering the “I Quit” workshop July 17 at 5 p.m.

The workshop provides education on nicotine addiction and withdrawal, strategies for handling cravings, a free four-week supply of nicotine replacement therapy, and a referral for ongoing support after the class.

To register, call Jihane Ambroise at (813) 929-1000, or visit AHECTobacco.org.

Get the most out of insurance
Most health care plans must now cover a set of preventive services like shots and screening tests under the Affordable Care Act.

To better understand insurance coverage, Bayfront Health Dade City’s free physician referral service is offering information on how to get the most out of insurance.

Those in need of assistance can call (877) 362-5321, or visit BayfrontDadeCity.com.

AFO receives grant from Griswold Cares
The Griswold Cares Foundation recently awarded a $1,000 grant to The Alzheimer’s Family Organization of Pasco for its strong commitment to providing respite care and the impact that care has in the communities it serves.

The foundation was established in 2010 with the vision that all senior citizens, including those with limited financial means, have the opportunity to age with dignity in the comfort of their own homes.

Gulfside hospice programs
Gulfside Regional Hospice hosts a variety of bereavement groups throughout Pasco County. The following support groups are offered:

Children Grief and Anticipatory Group, 5760 Dean Dairy Road in Zephyrhills, every Tuesday, 5 p.m. Call (727) 452-1592.
Parents Support Group, 5760 Dean Dairy Road in Zephyrhills, every Tuesday, 5 p.m. Call (727) 992-8034.
Newly Bereaved Group, 37826 Sky Ridge Circle on Dade City, every Wednesday, 2 p.m. Call (727) 992-8034.
West Winds Support Group, 37411 Eiland Blvd., in Zephyrhills, every Wednesday, 3:30 p.m., by appointment only.
Youth Support Group, St. Rita’s Catholic Church, 14440 14th St., in Dade City, every Wednesday, 5:30 p.m. Call (813) 780-1235.
Latino Parent Support Group, St. Rita’s Catholic Church, 14440 14th St., in Dade City, every Wednesday, 5:30 p.m. Call (727) 992-8034.
Children Support, 37826 Sky Ridge Circle in Dade City, every Thursday, 5 p.m. Call (727) 992-8034.
Alumni 2011 Social Group, 37826 Sky Ridge Circle in Dade City, every Friday, 1 p.m. Lunch is served. Call Joan Kolb at (813) 715-4163.

A grief and loss puppet show with presentations also is available to schools and organizations, and can be scheduled by calling Ashley Monteath at (727) 844-3946.

Volunteer for ombudsman program
Florida’s Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program needs volunteers to join its corps of advocates who protect the rights of elders living in nursing homes, assisted living facilities and adult family care homes.

Local councils need volunteers to identify, investigate and resolve residents’ concerns. Special training and certification is provided.

For information, call (888) 831-0404, or visit Ombudsman.MyFlorida.com.

Program launches seniors into healthy living
Bayfront Health Dade City has launched the Senior Circle program, formerly Senior Extra, for adults older than 50. The program will provide social opportunities, health education programs, exercise classes, volunteerism and entertainment. Other perks include in-hospital benefits when available, a magazine subscription, and planned monthly activities. Members recently gathered for the Senior Circle Sneak Peek event at the Dade City hospital. For information, visit SeniorCircle.com.

Enjoy your summer: Avoid a trip to the ER

July 10, 2014 By B.C. Manion

If you’ve been outdoors lately, no doubt you’ve observed that Florida’s steamy days of summer have arrived with a vengeance.

You also may have noticed there are a lot more kids riding bicycles in the street, splashing around in pools, and hanging off equipment at the local playground.

Going to the beach is a fun summer pastime, but three local doctors want to make sure that trip doesn’t end up in the emergency room. (File Photo) — Going to the beach is a fun summer pastime, but three local doctors want to make sure that trip doesn’t end up in the emergency room.
(File Photo)

The roads are busier, too. Cars and trucks snake toward the beach, and families have packed up to hit the road for vacation. There are a lot more people firing up their backyard grills and having picnics at parks, too.

Summer and its pastimes can offer a pleasant break, but is also can lead to illnesses or injuries, prompting unwanted trips to the local emergency room. There are ways, though, to lower your risk of getting sick or injured.

Three physicians — from Florida Hospital Zephyrhills, Florida Hospital Wesley Chapel and St. Joseph’s Hospital-North — shared their observations about the types of summer injuries that typically arrive at their emergency departments, and they offered suggestions to help people avoid the need for medical care.

On the road
“We see increased motor vehicle accidents,” said Dr. Javier Gonzalez, assistant medical director of the emergency department at the Zephyrhills hospital. Wear a seat belt, he added, because it reduces injuries and save lives.

It’s important to safeguard children, too. Be sure they have the appropriate type of protection, such as car seats or child-restraint chairs, he said. Head injuries tend to increase in the summer, too, because of greater use of bicycles, skateboards and in-line skates, Gonzalez said.

Be sure to wear helmets and make sure they fit properly, he said. Also, be sure the chinstrap is strapped beneath your chin to help protect the side of your head.

Use wrist guards to help prevent injuries, too.

“A lot of these people wear helmets, but when they fall, they put their hands down first, so they get a lot of wrist injuries,” Gonzalez said.

In the water
The importance of water safety cannot be overstated. “In Florida, a lot of people have pools. Make sure they have gates,” Gonzalez said.

Constant vigilance is required when children are in or around water, he added.

“Don’t take a break to get on the phone. I hear that all of the time, ‘I just went out for a second to speak to somebody or to pick up the phone.’ Before they know it, two minutes have passed by and the child is dead at the bottom of the pool.”

At public pools, be sure the child is within view of the lifeguard, Gonzalez said. Drownings at the beach often result from swimmers getting caught in riptides, so be sure to swim across the current, not against it.

“Always wear a life vest, as well, if you are doing activities like jet skiing,” he said. It’s also wise to do so when you’re cruising in a boat.

Besides the potential for drowning accidents, there are other risks associated with the water, Cordero said.

Diving accidents can cause serious neck injuries, she said.

When someone gets hurt diving, it’s important to get them out of the water to make sure they’re breathing, said Dr. Katrina Cordero, associate medical director of the emergency room at St. Joseph’s Hospital–North. Then, make sure they keep their neck still until help arrives.

Enjoying the outdoors
When you’re having a cookout or picnic, pay attention to how long the food has been sitting out, Gonzalez said. Some foods must be refrigerated, and if they are left out too long, it can cause people to become ill.

Store uncooked meats in separate coolers to avoid issues with cross contamination. Also, be sure to thoroughly cook meat and chicken, he said.

All three doctors said drinking water is important to avoid dehydration.

“There’s a misconception that you can actually keep up with your hydration once you’re outside, or once you’re doing the activity,” said Dr. Michael Longley, medical director of the emergency department at the Wesley Chapel hospital. “The reality is you really need to pre-hydrate. Drink a lot either the night before or a couple of hours before you’re going to be outside.

“You’re losing water with every breath you take, you’re losing water with the heat itself. You’re losing water with sweating and you’re losing water with the activity that you’re doing. It’s compounded and there’s just no way to keep up if the tank isn’t full to begin with,” Longley said.

How much you need to drink varies based on your size. An adult should drink a liter or two before they go out. A child should drink about half of that, Longley said.

To help people drink enough water, Longley offers this piece of advice: “I tend to tell kids and adults, alike, to add a little extra salt to their meal. It drives the thirst. It helps the muscle function and it helps you to hold in a little of the water, as well.”

People who suffer from heat cramps, heat stroke and heat exhaustion haven’t hydrated before they go outside, Longley said. Often, people don’t realize how hot they are because they’ve been out in the sun for hours, take a dip and feel a cool breeze.

Sunburn is a problem, too, St. Joe’s Cordero said. People often underestimate the intensity of the sun here.

“They fall asleep on the beach,” she said, and when they wake up, they have painful sunburn.

The same thing can happen when people are out working in the yard and haven’t applied sunscreen, she said. They get busy and forget how much sun exposure they’ve had.

Cordero also offered this tip to avoid becoming dehydrated: Carry a bottle of water or Gatorade around with you, to remind yourself to drink. Some people like to quench their thirst with a beer or another alcoholic drink.

“Beer is OK,” Cordero said. But “don’t let it be your only means of hydration.”

Rockets’ red glare
The increased amount of recreation during summer months tends to result in more people visiting the ER with injuries, Longley said. “We see a lot more broken bones.”

It’s also a time of year when there’s an uptick in fireworks injuries, which are typically unique injuries that require expert medical attention.

“Explosions can cause all sorts of tissue damage locally,” Longley said. “Particles can be inhaled. They can be embedded in the eye.”

The injuries can get complicated quickly.

“Something that seems simple can be way more complex a few hours later,” Longley said.

Sometimes the steps taken immediately after a fireworks injury can make a big difference, Cordero said. If a fingertip is blown off, for example, it’s important to try to find the fingertip, she said. It should be placed in a cloth that has been dampened with water, placed in a plastic bag, and then all put into a larger bag that has some ice in it.

“You don’t want any direct contact with ice,” Cordero said. “That could cause some tissue damage.”

Tips for a safer summer
• Drink plenty of water to avoid dehydration. Start drinking water before you head out for the day, and keep drinking it throughout the day to stay hydrated.

• If you’re grilling, be sure to cook your meats thoroughly. Also, do not allow children to be near hot grills.

• If you’re having a gathering, be sure to keep foods that need refrigeration in coolers until shortly before you need them. Keep them away from direct sunlight and don’t leave them out for more than an hour.

• Wear helmets while riding bikes, skateboarding or rollerblading. Wear wrist guards, too.

• Be vigilant when there are children around water. A happy gathering can turn tragic within minutes.

• Wear sunscreen to avoid sunburn. Be sure to reapply it if you decided to take a dip in a pool or at the beach.

• Wear life jackets on boats and seat belts in cars.

Water Safety Tips
Ways to improve safety:

• Never leave a child unattended at a pool or a spa.

• Teach children basic water safety skills.

• Keep children away from pool drains, pipes and other openings.

• Have a telephone nearby to enable a quick call to emergency agencies.

• If a child is missing, check the pool or spa first.

• Learn CPR.

• Install a 4-foot fence around the perimeter of the pool with a self-closing, self-latching gate.

• Having life-saving equipment such as life rings or floats available and easily accessible.

For information, visit PoolSafely.gov.

Published July 9, 2014

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Mosquito-borne chikungunya cases on the rise

July 3, 2014 By B.C. Manion

As more cases of people infected by the chikungunya virus are reported in Florida, public health officials are spreading the word about the need to take precautions.

Chikungunya is spread by two mosquito species, Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus, both of which are found in Florida.

This mosquito, an Aedes aegypti, is one of two species that transmits the chikungunya virus. Health officials are urging the public to take precautions to avoid mosquito bites to protect themselves from any of the illnesses that mosquitoes can transmit. (Courtesy of U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention) — This mosquito, an Aedes aegypti, is one of two species that transmits the chikungunya virus. Health officials are urging the public to take precautions to avoid mosquito bites to protect themselves from any of the illnesses that mosquitoes can transmit.
(Courtesy of U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention)

“It’s a virus that’s been around in Asia and Africa for many, many years,” said Amanda Pullman, an epidemiologist with the Florida Department of Health in Hillsborough County. Only recently, it started spreading throughout Central and South Americas and the Caribbean Islands, “and now very specifically, it’s getting closer in the Americas.”

“Because of the geographic closeness, the proximity to Florida, we’ve become very concerned that this is something we could have here locally,” she said. “So we want to prevent that.”

Cases continue to rise in Florida, but as of last week, the people who have been infected with the virus are those who have traveled to other places, Pullman said.

The virus is not transmitted from person to person directly, but is spread by infected mosquitoes. Some people who contract the virus have no symptoms at all, while others can have debilitating pain that can last for months or even years, Pullman said.

Other symptoms can include a high fever, headaches, visible swelling and joint pain.

Some people are simply tired for a few days, Pullman said. Others have intestinal symptoms.

There’s no vaccine or treatment, but people experiencing symptoms can seek medical care and receive medication for pain and fever, Pullman said. People should go the hospital or see their doctor if they suspect they have chikungunya, to give the health department a better chance of combating its spread.

When a positive test comes back in Hillsborough County, for instance, the mosquito control department heads out to eradicate mosquitoes near the infected person’s residence. By killing mosquitoes in the vicinity, it decreases the possibility of local transmission of the virus, Pullman said.

Preventing local transmission of chikungunya is especially important in Florida, which is a heavy tourism state. “Given our lifestyle here in Florida, lots of us like to be outside,” Pullman said. “There’s all kinds of things at the beach and with the holidays especially coming up, people spend a lot of time outdoors.”

To reduce the risk of contracting chikungunya or other viruses spread by mosquitoes, when people are outdoors, they should be sure to wear mosquito repellent on exposed skin, both day and night, advised Deanna Krautner, public information officer for the Pasco County Health Department. It’s also a good idea to wear lightweight pants and long-sleeved shirts to reduce potential exposure for mosquito bites.

Residents also can help reduce breeding sites for mosquitoes.

“If you see standing water of any sort, try to dump and cover,” Pullman said. Even the smallest amount of standing water can be a problem. “A bottle cap in someone’s backyard can breed a hundred larvae.”

“Residents can go around their house and inspect where water is pooling. Try to empty those or cap those or flip them over, so the water doesn’t pool,” Krautner said.

If mosquitoes are biting, Krautner said, it’s a good idea to go indoors. Those leaving windows open to enjoy an evening breeze need to be sure their screens are in good repair.

The bottom line, Krautner said, is to be aware that mosquitoes can carry viruses that make people ill, and people should do what they can to avoid being bit.

Published July 2, 2014

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Gulfside Hospice celebrates a quarter-century of care

July 3, 2014 By B.C. Manion

In the beginning, it was known as Central Gulfside Hospice, serving only patients in New Port Richey.

Now, a quarter-century later, it’s known as Gulfside Hospice & Pasco Palliative Care, with about 1,500 admissions a year across Pasco County.

Linda Ward, president and chief executive of Gulfside Hospice & Pasco Palliative Care, will be among those celebrating the care provider’s 25th anniversary at a Founder’s Day Breakfast on July 8. (B.C. Manion/Staff Photo) — Linda Ward, president and chief executive of Gulfside Hospice & Pasco Palliative Care, will be among those celebrating the care provider’s 25th anniversary at a Founder’s Day Breakfast on July 8.
(B.C. Manion/Staff Photo)

The organization has 14 locations, including a corporate resource office in Land O’ Lakes, clinical branch offices in New Port Richey and Dade City, four inpatient care centers, five thrift shops, a bereavement center, and outreach counseling center.

It has about 265 employees, plus contract employees.

No matter where it delivers services, Gulfside has the same goals in mind, said Linda Ward, its president and chief executive officer.

“A lot of people think that hospice is a place,” Ward said. “Hospice is a concept. The concept is really comfort and quality, peace, dignity.”

Across the country, about 90 percent of hospice patients choose to receive their care at home, Ward said.

Gulfside delivers its hospice care in a wide array of settings including retirement homes, nursing homes, assisted living facilities, apartments, or other residences, standalone hospice centers — wherever the person lives, Ward said. Gulfside’s team manages the patient’s pain and symptoms, and assists the patient with the emotional and spiritual aspects of end-of-life issues.

It provides necessary medications as well as medical equipment and supplies. Its team coaches families in caring for patients and dealing with a wide array of issues that arise.

When Gulfside was preparing to open a residential care center in Zephyrhills, it took great care in making sure the center was designed with its patients and their loved ones in mind, Ward said. That center opened four years ago, with a goal to create a special environment.

When visitors arrive there, they walk through a space that has the feel of an Italian piazza. Natural light pours through the skylight in the courtyard’s high ceiling. A collection of tables offers visitors a place to sit and relax. A decorative fountain is the focal centerpiece of the room.

Before residential architect Peter Horstman designed the center, Gulfside told him what they were trying to achieve.

“We basically painted a picture of what it was that we wanted patients and families and visitors to experience as soon as they walk through the door,” Ward said.

People are walking into the center with a lot on their minds and the goal is to make the surroundings pleasant and relaxing, Ward said.

Besides spacious patient rooms, the center has a family room that looks out over a pond, a place where visitors and patients can play board games, a children’s play room, and a chapel, complete with stained glass windows.

Providing a quality environment is just one part of the equation, Ward said.

“You can have the most beautiful environment ever, but it’s not everything. It’s really not the most important thing,” Ward said.

Quality of care is vital, and that means having a capable staff that is committed to serving patients, Ward said.

Even though hospice has been around in the United States since the 1970s and has grown substantially since Medicare started covering it in the 1980s, some people still do not understand what it is, Ward said. Some health care professionals remain hesitant to make a hospice referral because they have been trained to try to heal patients, and for them, hospice feels like an admission of failure.

Some patients are even reluctant to accept a hospice referral.

The term “hospice” can provoke fear, Ward explained. “They (patients) think, ‘Oh, my gosh, they’ve called in hospice, that’s it.’”

Some doctors understand the value of referring patients to hospice when there’s still time for the patient to benefit from the available services, Ward said. During those final stages, hospice can help not only the patient, but the patient’s loved ones, too.

Many patients, by they are referred for hospice, may only have a few days to live, Ward said. “That’s when a disservice has been done to the person. The hospice experience is so much more than just the pain and symptom control for the patient. That’s the primary initial first goal — get the person out of pain, immediately. That’s our No. 1 immediate task.

“But then, it’s a holistic approach,” she said, involving a team that includes a social worker, a chaplain, a certified nurse, a physician and a certified nurse’s aid. They help the patient with everything from pain relief to personal hygiene, as well as such issues as spiritual guidance and family dynamics.

“In the world in which we live, families are really having tough times,” Ward said. “The recession was so hard on people, and they’re still trying to come out of it. And so you’ve got those financial factors and psychosocial issues, and now you add terminal illness on top of it, and that’s such a high-stress situation.

“And so, our social workers and chaplains – they are so highly involved in helping people through these things,” Ward said.

Medicare benefits can be used to reimburse hospice providers for patients who have a prognosis of six months or less, Ward said. Many patients, however, outlive their prognosis and can continue to qualify for the services.

Many hospice providers, including Gulfside, also have a separate palliative care program, which aims to provide pain relief for patients who are not hospice-appropriate yet, but ultimately will be, Ward said.

Those patients do not qualify for hospice benefits, but can qualify under Medicare Part B, which has benefits for people who have chronic illness, Ward said.

As it celebrates its 25th anniversary, Gulfside is planning for its future.

“Right now, we’re looking at continued partnerships with other health care providers, to diversify us and grow our business,” Ward said.

Gulfside has an active palliative program with Medical Center of Trinity, she said, noting it does about 30 palliative consults a month with the hospital. Gulfside also has a close relationship with Florida Hospital Wesley Chapel.

Gulfside’s residential center in Zephyrhills has strong ties to Florida Hospital Zephyrhills, Ward said. “Ninety-nine percent of all of our patients who come to this care center come from Florida Hospital Zephyrhills.”

Published July 2, 2014

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Health 07-02-14

July 3, 2014 By Mary Rathman

Breast cancer support
Florida Cancer Affiliates will host a breast cancer support group meeting July 3 at 6 p.m., at its New Port Richey center, 5500 Little Road.

For information, call (727) 505-6379.

Depression, bipolar education
The National Alliance on Mental Illness Pasco County is offering a free education class called “Depression and Bipolar Awareness: From Diagnosis to Remission” July 7 at 7 p.m. at North Tampa Behavioral Health, 29910 State Road 56 in Wesley Chapel.

Guest speaker is Jason Tompkins, psychotherapist and chairman of the Tampa Bay chapter of the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention.

To RSVP, visit NAMIPasco.org.

Chronic disease management
The Medical Center of Trinity, 9330 State Road 54, is hosting a chronic disease self-management program July 7 at 9 a.m. It will then meet weekly for the next six weeks.

Topics include fatigue, pain, isolation, exercise, medications, communication, nutrition and new treatments.

Class size is limited, and reservations are required.

For information, call (727) 834-5630.

MS support group
The Medical Center of Trinity, 9330 State Road 54, hosts a monthly support group for those affected by multiple sclerosis.

The next meeting is July 8 at noon.

Caregivers and family members are invited.

For information, call (727) 372-1568.

Autism support monthly meeting
The Medical Center of Trinity, 9330 State Road 54, is hosting Helping HANDs from Hope for Autism and Neurological Disorders, a support group for family members and friends impacted by autism.

The next monthly meeting is July 9 at 7 p.m.

For information, call Jonica Chittum at (813) 402-9442.

PAN meets at Sunset Bay
The Pasco Aging Network will meet July 9 beginning at 8 a.m., at Villas at Sunset Bay, 4331 Fiji Drive in New Port Richey.

Breakfast will be served, and admission is free.

Guest speaker is attorney Tatiana Melnik on “Protecting Your Client’s Confidential Information.”

To RSVP, visit PascoAgingNetwork.org. For information, call Jennifer Hess at (727) 539-7550, ext. 229.

Healthy eating at Trinity
The Medical Center of Trinity, 9330 State Road 54, offers the program “Healthy Eating Every Day” beginning July 9 at 9 a.m., for 14 weeks. Classes end Oct. 9.

The program is designed to help people improve the quality of their diets.

Seating is limited, and reservations are required.

For information, call (727) 834-5630.

Summer blood drive
Regional Medical Center Bayonet Point, 14000 Fivay Road in Hudson, is hosting a summer blood drive July 10 from noon to 5 p.m.

All donors will receive a wellness checkup and a beach towel. Photo ID is required.

Those who donate twice before Aug. 31 can receive a free lunch offer from Outback Steakhouse.

To make an appointment online, visit OneBloodDonor.org, and use sponsor code “0B034.”

Gulfside orientations
Gulfside Hospice is hosting an orientation for new shop volunteers July 30 at 9 a.m., at the Lutz Thrift Shoppe, 1930 Land O’ Lakes Blvd.

Volunteers must be at least 15 years old.

Space is limited, and reservations are required.

For information, call Jennifer Ball or Tracey Thompson at (813) 780-1235.

Surviving cancer seminar
Dr. Roberto Diaz from the H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center & Research Institute will speak on surviving cancer Sept. 25 at 7 p.m., at the Keystone Community Church, 21010 State Road 54, in Lutz.

The program is free, and will cover new treatments for cancer, and allow for a question-and-answer period.

For information, call Walt Bockmiller, chair of the Keystone Cancer Support Group, at (813) 527-8211, or call the Keystone Community Church at (813) 948-4522.

Health 06-25-14

June 26, 2014 By Mary Rathman

‘Safety first’ with Cpl. Wilkett
Gulfside Hospice & Pasco Palliative Care recently honored Cpl. Alan Wilkett of the Pasco County Sheriff’s Office with a plaque to thank him for his help in educating Gulfside staff on safety measures. At the presentation were, from left, Sheena Thompson, Wilkett, Gulfside president and chief executive Linda Ward, and Pasco Sheriff Chris Nocco.

Chatterboxes meeting
The Medical Center of Trinity, 9330 State Road 54, hosts bi-weekly Chatterboxes support group meetings to assist individuals suffering from communication deficits as a result of a cerebral vascular accident or other neurological disorder.

The next meeting is June 26 at 3 p.m.

For information, call (727) 834-5630.

Infant care program
The obstetrics program at Medical Center of Trinity, 9330 State Road 54, is offering an infant care class June 26 and July 3 at 6 p.m.

The class will provide parents with the knowledge and skills to make the transition into parenting smooth and comfortable.

For information or reservations, call (727) 834-5630.

Breast cancer support
Florida Cancer Affiliates is hosting a breast cancer support group meeting July 3 at 6 p.m., at its New Port Richey center, 5500 Little Road.

For information, call (727) 505-6379.

Nutrition and diabetes
The Medical Center of Trinity, 9330 State Road 54, is hosting a class on nutrition and diabetes July 3 at 10 a.m.

The class will teach the basic principles of nutrition; meal timing; how carbohydrates, proteins and fats can affect blood sugar; and how to make better food choices.

Seating is limited, and reservations are required.

For information, call (727) 834-5630.

(Courtesy of Florida Hospital Zephyrhills)

Brenda Welcher is exceptional employee
Brenda Welcher reacts to being named Florida Hospital Zephyrhills’ 2013 Employee of the Year. She was selected for her high-quality performance, good attendance and consistent display of excellent with teamwork, patient and environment service standards. Hospital chief executive Randy Surber as well as marketing director Cheryl Kennison, right, were among those on hand to congratulate Welcher.

‘I Quit’ at Florida Hospital Zephyrhills
Florida Hospital Zephyrhills, 7050 Gall Blvd., is offering the “I Quit” workshop July 17 at 5 p.m.

The workshop will provide education on nicotine addiction and withdrawal, strategies for handling cravings, a free four-week supply of nicotine replacement therapy, and a referral for ongoing support after the class.

To register, call Jihane Ambroise at (813) 929-1000, or visit AHECTobacco.org.

Get the most out of insurance
Most health care plans must now cover a set of preventive services like shots and screening tests under the Affordable Care Act.

To better understand insurance coverage, Bayfront Health Dade City’s free physician referral service is offering information on how to get the most out of insurance.

Those in need of assistance can call (877) 362-5321, or visit BayfrontDadeCity.com.

The foundation was established in 2010 with the vision that all seniors, including those with limited financial means, have the opportunity to age with dignity in the comfort of their own homes.

Zephyrhills hospital delivers big changes, more babies

June 26, 2014 By Michael Hinman

There is a baby boom hitting Florida Hospital Zephyrhills so large, even administrators are struggling to understand it.

Jennifer Wesolowski and Freddy Santiago welcomed their new son, Joseph Santiago, into the world at Florida Hospital Zephyrhills last weekend. Joseph, who was born in the late-night hours of June 18, is part of a boom of babies being born at the hospital. (Michael Hinman/Staff Photo) — Jennifer Wesolowski and Freddy Santiago welcomed their new son, Joseph Santiago, into the world at Florida Hospital Zephyrhills last weekend. Joseph, who was born in the late-night hours of June 18, is part of a boom of babies being born at the hospital.
(Michael Hinman/Staff Photo)

Over the past six months, the hospital on U.S. 301 in Zephyrhills welcomed 258 babies into the world, well above projections of just 100 for this point. And they’re not expecting it to let up anytime soon.

“There’s a sense that we’re doing a lot here at the hospital, and it’s creating some excitement in the community,” said Dr. Annette Williams, medical director for The Baby Place, the obstetrics unit at Florida Hospital Zephyrhills. “We’re making a lot of positive changes, and that means people are staying right here in town, and are not going somewhere else instead.”

Just a few weeks ago, The Baby Place moved out of its old unit home at the hospital and into temporary quarters on the second floor. That’s because the maternity unit is getting a complete overhaul that includes significant equipment upgrades, new beds, and even an aesthetic refresh.

The finished product, expected to open in August, will increase the number of labor rooms from five to eight, and postpartum rooms from seven to nine. And even that might not be enough to handle the uptick in babies.

The Zephyrhills hospital did anticipate at least a small rise in births at the hospital after Bayfront Health Dade City announced last year it was closing its maternity unit. One of the contributing factors was a 33 percent decline in births at the hospital between 2008 and 2012, according to published reports.

The Baby Place got ready, however, by calling various doctor offices in the area, and trying to get a count of the number of expecting mothers who were likely to choose Florida Hospital Zephyrhills. The results convinced the hospital to increase its maternity staff, but the baby census was actually on the low end.

“Even with all the calling we did, we had even more people come in than we thought we would,” said Catalina Sierra, who manages The Baby Place with Williams. “We had a lot of people just walking in, saying they were supposed to go to Tampa, or they were supposed to go to Brooksville, but instead, ‘Here I am.’”

The upgrades to The Baby Place also gave the hospital a chance to centralize many of its women’s health services, including mother/baby, gynecology, breast care, heart care, and health and wellness. At the same time, the hospital also changed how the department was managed, going to one led by a physician instead of the more traditional nurse-led department.

The biggest advantage to that is much stronger communication between the nursing staff, who work the front lines, and the physicians.

“There’s always that gap between the physicians and the nurses, and it’s difficult sometimes,” Williams said. “By having a physician in charge, it’s a lot easier to talk to the physician and make your case for the nurse. Communication is such an integral part of health care, and we’re trying to make it easier for that communication to happen, and not put the stress on the nurses.”

The difference in the new system has already been felt, Sierra said, and it’s a positive one where she enjoys working with Williams.

“She’s such a great doctor. She knows the physician’s mind, and she knows the nurse’s mind. That way, she can relate to the doctors and relate to the nurses, and that’s just what we need.”

The maternity market is highly competitive, especially as more and more hospitals open within driving distance of East Pasco County, creating plenty of choice for mothers. While proximity might play a strong role in the selection of a hospital, other issues such as quality of care, level of equipment sophistication, and even how comfortable and calming the rooms are, are important considerations.

Florida Hospital Zephyrhills says it is experiencing an influx of moms, even before renovations are complete.

Serving women who are having babies is an excellent way to introduce the hospital to younger people, especially for many mothers who are spending their first night in one delivering a child.

“For a lot of women, this is their very first encounter with a hospital,” said Cheryl Kennison, the marketing director at Florida Hospital Zephyrhills. “When people are choosing to stay here when they could’ve easily gone somewhere else, it says a lot about the team, and what everyone is doing here.”

Published June 25, 2014

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Health 06-18-14

June 19, 2014 By Mary Rathman

Pharmacy celebrates expansion
Trinity Medical Pharmacy, the only dual-accredited compounding pharmacy in Florida, celebrated its newly expanded lab facility with a ribbon cutting and tours of the 12,000-square-foot facility. The pharmacy specializes in compounding medications for dermatology, migraines, oncology, orthopedics, pain, psoriasis and wound care. It is located at 9332 State Road 54 in Trinity.

Memory Care Village unveiling
The Commons on Pretty Pond, located at 38130 Pretty Pond Road in Zephyrhills, will host a public open house June 24 from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m.

The event will include the unveiling of Memory Care Village at The Commons, complete with tours and information regarding the newest addition to the campus. The village will provide care to patients with Alzheimer’s disease, dementia, and other types of memory impairment.

To RSVP, call (813) 779-4501.

Cancer support at Keystone
Keystone Community Church, 21010 State Road 54 in Land O’ Lakes, hosts a cancer support group program with local doctors and hospital and clinic professionals.

Dr. Ghassan El Haddad will present “Cancer and the Treatment of It” June 19 at 7 p.m. Haddad is the section head for radionuclide therapy at H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center & Research Institute.

For information, call Walt Bockmiller at (813) 527-8211, or the church at (813) 948-4522.

Huntington’s disease support
The Medical Center of Trinity, 9330 State Road 54, hosts a monthly support group for anyone whose life is affected by Huntington’s disease.

The next meeting is June 19 at 6:30 p.m.

For information, call Nina Qualters at (727) 236-3578, or email .

Lymphedema support meeting
The Medical Center of Trinity, 9330 State Road 54, will host monthly lymphedema support group meetings.

Lymphedema is a persistent swelling, usually affecting an arm or leg that sometimes occurs as a side effect of cancer treatment.

The next meeting is June 19 at 3 p.m.

Seating is limited, and reservations are required.

For information, call (727) 834-5630.

Gulfside hosts educational bingo
Gulfside Hospice will host an educational bingo game June 25 at 11 a.m., at the Land O’ Lakes Library, 2818 Collier Parkway.

The event will feature topics on the benefits of hospice care, myths about hospice care, the levels of hospice care, and advanced directives.

For information, call Jennifer Chianella at (727) 992-8984.

Ostomy support group
The Medical Center of Trinity, 9330 State Road 54, will host its support group meeting for all ostomy patients and families on the fourth Wednesday of each month.

The next meeting is June 25 at 5 p.m.

Meetings are guided by Billie Jo Bennett, certified wound care associate and ostomy management specialist.

For information, call (727) 834-4450.

Grand opening for medical education center
Regional Medical Center Bayonet Point will have a grand opening and ribbon cutting ceremony for its new Graduate Medical Education Center June 25 at 5 p.m., at 14108 Glacial Drive in Hudson.

There will be a reception, tours, and a white coat ceremony for the inaugural class of residents. The event is open to the public.

For information, or to RSVP, call (727) 869-5505.

Health 06-11-14

June 12, 2014 By Mary Rathman

(Courtesy of Regional Medical Center Bayonet Point)

Blessed hands symbolize nursing commitment
The Regional Medical Center Bayonet Point nursing staff celebrate the ‘Blessing of the Hands’ by chaplain, the Rev. Jack Long, during a ceremony May 9. It symbolizes the nursing commitment to care, healing, and relief of pain and suffering. Janet Brown, director of the hospital’s Neuro Spine Unit, receives water from the chaplain’s chalice during the ceremony.

Sibling classes
The obstetrics program at Medical Center of Trinity, 9330 State Road 54, offers monthly sibling classes.

The classes cover topics such as what a new baby looks like, how to become a big helper, and how to make friends with the new baby.

The next class is for children 2 to 6 years old on June 18 at 5 p.m.

The cost is $10 per child. For information, call (727) 834-5630.

Cancer support at Keystone
Keystone Community Church, 21010 State Road 54 in Land O’ Lakes, hosts a cancer support group program with local doctors and hospital and clinic professionals.

Dr. Ghassan El Haddad will present “Cancer and the Treatment of It” June 19 at 7 p.m. Haddad is the section head for radionuclide therapy at H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center & Research Institute.

For information, call Walt Bockmiller at (813) 527-8211, or the church at (813) 948-4522.

Huntington’s disease support
The Medical Center of Trinity, 9330 State Road 54, hosts a monthly support group for anyone whose life is affected by Huntington’s disease.

The next meeting is June 19 at 6:30 p.m.

For information, call Nina Qualters at (727) 236-3578, or email .

Free pregnancy care
LifeChoices Women’s Care, 1527 N. Dale Mabry Highway, Suite 101, in Lutz, offers free pregnancy testing and free limited obstetrical ultrasounds to teens, women and couples facing an unplanned pregnancy.

The center is open Monday from 9:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m., and Tuesday and Thursday from 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Appointments are recommended.

For information, call (813) 948-7734.

Lymphedema support meeting
The Medical Center of Trinity, 9330 State Road 54, will host monthly lymphedema support group meetings.

Lymphedema is a persistent swelling, usually affecting an arm or leg that sometimes occurs as a side effect of cancer treatment.

The next meeting is June 19 at 3 p.m.

Seating is limited, and reservations are required.

For information, call (727) 834-5630.

Rev. Jack Long receives humanitarian award
Regional Medical Center Bayonet Point has honored chaplain the Rev. Jack Long with its 2013 Frist Employee Humanitarian Award.

The award honors outstanding individuals whose daily dedication and caregiving epitomizes the highest standards of quality and personal commitment.

Regional Medical excels in patient safety
Hospital Safety score recently honored Regional Medical Center Bayonet Point with an “A” for patient safety.

The grade is compiled by how well hospitals protect patients from accidents, errors, injuries and infections.

The first and only hospital safety rating to be peer-reviewed in the Journal of Patient Safety, the score is designed to give consumers information they can use to protect themselves and their families when facing a hospital stay.

Food addicts program
Food Addicts in Recovery Anonymous meets at Seventh-day Adventist Church, 33420 State Road 54 in Wesley Chapel, Thursdays at 7 p.m.

The program is based on the 12-step program of Alcoholics Anonymous.

For information, visit FoodAddicts.org.

NAMI offers support
The Pasco County Chapter of National Alliance on Mental Illness offers two monthly support group meetings at 7 p.m.

• Family & Friends Support Meetings: North Tampa Behavioral Health, 29910 State Road 56 in Wesley Chapel, first and third Tuesday of each month. This group is for family and friends of those with mental illness.

• NAMI Connections: NAMI Pasco Office, 6480 Jallo Plaza, 6480 Land O’ Lakes Blvd., Land O’ Lakes, every Tuesday. This group is for those living with mental illness.

For information, call (727) 992-9653.

I Quit program at Florida Hospital
Florida Hospital Zephyrhills, 7050 Gall Blvd., is offering the I Quit nicotine program June 12 at 5 p.m., in the hospital’s education room.

Topics include nicotine addiction and withdrawal, strategies to handle cravings, a free four-week supply of nicotine replacement therapy, and a referral for ongoing support after the class.

To register, call Jihane Ambroise at (813) 929-1000.

Health 06-04-14

June 5, 2014 By Mary Rathman

The center is open Monday from 9:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m., and Tuesday and Thursday from 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Appointments are recommended.

For information, call (813) 948-7734.

Smoking cessation program
The Regional Medical Center Bayonet Point, 14000 Fivay Road in Hudson, will offer a free smoking cessation program June 6 at noon.

Participants are eligible to receive up to four weeks of free nicotine replacement therapy, including gum patches and lozenges.

Registration is required.

For information, call (813) 929-1000, ext. 213.

Hospice teen camp
Gulfside Hospice is hosting its annual Mending Hearts Teen Camp June 6 and June 7 at Lakewood Retreat in Brooksville.

The camp focuses on providing a safe environment for teens dealing with the loss of a loved one.

Activities include a rope course, arts and crafts, and a balloon release.

For information, call (727) 844-3946, or (813) 780-1235.

Men’s health seminar
The Wellness Plaza at Florida Hospital Wesley Chapel, 2600 Bruce B. Downs Blvd., will host a men’s health seminar June 10.

There will be a heart health lecture at 10 a.m., a low testosterone lecture at 11:15 a.m., and an erectile dysfunction lecture at 12:30 p.m.

Registration is required, and space is limited. Lunch will be provided.

For information, call (813) 929-5432.

MS support group
The Medical Center of Trinity, 9330 State Road 54, hosts a monthly support group the second Tuesday of each month for those afflicted with multiple sclerosis, along with their caregivers and family members.

The next meeting is June 10 at noon.

For information, call (727) 372-1568.

Atrial fibrillation lecture
The Heart Institute at Regional Medical Center Bayonet Point, 14000 Fivay Road in Hudson, will host a free presentation on “Atrial Fibrillation: Treatment for Irregular Heart Rhythm” June 10 at 3 p.m.

Guest speakers are cardiac surgeon Dr. Michael Wahl and cardiac electrophysiologist Dr. Rajiva Goyal.

Seating is limited, and reservations are required. Refreshments will be served.

For information, call (727) 869-5498.

OLOR cancer network
Our Lady of the Rosary Catholic Church Family Cancer Network meets the second and fourth Thursday of the month in Rosary Hall, 2348 Collier Parkway in Land O’ Lakes, beginning at 7 p.m.

Cancer survivors and caregivers are invited to attend.

For information, call (813) 949-4565.

Food addicts program
Food Addicts in Recovery Anonymous meets at Seventh-day Adventist Church, 33420 State Road 54 in Wesley Chapel, Thursdays at 7 p.m.

The program is based on the 12-step program of Alcoholics Anonymous.

For information, visit FoodAddicts.org.

NAMI offers support
The Pasco County Chapter of National Alliance on Mental Illness offers two monthly support group meetings at 7 p.m.

• NAMI Connections: NAMI Pasco Office, 6480 Jallo Plaza, 6480 Land O’ Lakes Blvd., Land O’ Lakes, every Tuesday. This group is for those living with mental illness.

For information, call (727) 992-9653.