Health

Health 05-28-14

May 29, 2014 By Mary Rathman

Alzheimer’s caregiver seminar
The Alzheimer’s Association will host its free “Caregiver Stress: Taking Care of You” seminar May 29 at 7 p.m., at Arden Courts Memory Care Community, 14950 Casey Road in Tampa.

Seating is limited, and reservations are required.

For information, call (813) 963-6100.

‘Start Your Engines’ in Trinity
The Medical Center of Trinity, 9330 State Road 54, will host the community event called “Start Your Engines” May 31 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.

In addition to classic cars and model airplanes, there will be educational stations on heart and vascular, cancer, back pain, knee and hip pain, gall bladder, rehabilitative services, wound care and women’s imaging services.

Boxed lunches will be available for $3.

For information or to pre-register, call (727) 834-5630.

Gulfside caregiver seminar
Gulfside Hospice & Pasco Palliative Care will host a seminar on end-of-life planning, caregiver tips and resources June 4 at 9 a.m.

This is a free seminar at Michels & Lundquist funeral home, 5228 Trouble Creek Road in New Port Richey.

Lunch will be served, but seating is limited.

For information, call Brenda Browne at (727) 484-7933.

Free health seminar
Samantha Taylor of Pure Health Studios, 2206 Knight Road in Land O’ Lakes, is hosting a free seminar called “How to Get Rid of Cravings and Balance Your Hunger” May 31 at 11 a.m.

To RSVP, visit PureHealthStudios.com.

Medical center receives AHA award
Regional Medical Center Bayonet Point has received the Get With the Guidelines – Stroke Gold Quality Achievement Award from the American Heart Association and America Stroke Association.

The award recognizes the center’s commitment and success in implementing a higher standard of care by ensuring that stroke patients receive treatment according to nationally accepted guidelines.

This is the seventh consecutive year Bayonet Point has been recognized with a quality achievement award.

Access Health Care stroke lecture
Access Health Care, 5350 Spring Hill Drive in Spring Hill, will host a stroke lecture June 5 at 5:15 p.m.

Dr. Maria Scunziano-Singh will cover the signs of impending catastrophic brain injury.

For information or to register, call (352) 688-8116.

Gulfside memorial service
Gulfside Hospice is hosting a community memorial service May 30 at 3 p.m., at East Pasco Seventh-day Adventist Church, 7333 Dairy Road in Zephyrhills.

There will be refreshments after the service.

For information, call (727) 844-3946.

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

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

Registration is required. Lunch will be provided.

For information, call (813) 929-5432.

Community Health Fair
Florida Hospital Zephyrhills, C1 Bank and Elks USA will host their Community Health Fair June 11 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., at Elks Lodge 2731, located at 6851 Wire Road in Zephyrhills.

The event will feature free health screenings, health and wellness education, door prizes, and a low-cost lunch.

Fashion show fundraiser
The Alzheimer’s Family Organization will host its annual Alberta’s Fashion Show at Heritage Springs Country Club, 11345 Robert Trent Jones Parkway in Trinity, June 17 at noon.

The event includes lunch, a Chinese auction, door prizes, vendor tables and raffles.

Cost is $30 per person, with discounts for table purchases. Sponsorships are available starting at $75.

All proceeds benefit the Alzheimer’s Family Organization.

For information, visit tinyurl.com/AlbertaFashion.

Hospital needs volunteers
Florida Hospital Zephyrhills is looking for volunteers to help with a variety of tasks including transporting patients to and from tests, driving the shuttle, distributing mail, cafeteria, clerical and administrative, and more. Volunteers must be at least 14 years old.

There is a minimum requirement of four volunteer hours per week.

Volunteers receive a complimentary meal in the café on the days they work, and recognition at the annual volunteer banquet. Orientation sessions are twice a month.

If interested, applications are available online at FloridaHospital.com/Zephyrhills, or by calling (813) 779-6256.

Health 05-21-14

May 23, 2014 By Mary Rathman

Gulfside Hospice honors its volunteers
Gulfside Hospice & Pasco Palliative Care’s volunteer department showed its appreciation for its volunteers at three picnics during National Volunteer Week. Representing the department were, from left, Central Pasco volunteer manager Jennifer Ball, volunteer services director Kelly Milner, West Pasco volunteer manager Kathie Poole and East Pasco volunteer manager Tracey Thompson.

Johnson joins North Tampa Behavioral Health
Dr. Tonja Johnson has joined North Tampa Behavioral Health’s medical staff.

Johnson is board certified in psychiatry through the American Board of Psychiatry & Neurology.

She attended medical school at East Tennessee State University in Johnson City, Tennessee, before relocating to complete her internship and residency at the University of South Florida.

Health insurance services
Premier Community HealthCare is offering outreach and enrollment services for those that need help with Access, Medicaid or Children’s Health Insurance Plan applications.

There will be a head start/early enrollment event May 28 from 11:30 a.m. to 3 p.m., at the District School Board Complex, Portable 23, 20425 Gator Lane in Land O’ Lakes.

For information, call (352) 518-2000, ext. 9238.

Uninsured and homeless health care
Pasco County residents that are uninsured and/or homeless can receive basic health care on the Mobile Medical Unit, provided by Pasco County Public Defender Bob Dillinger, at no charge.

The unit will be at Our Lady of the Rosary Catholic Church, 2348 Collier Parkway in Land O’ Lakes, May 29 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

For information, visit WeareTheHope.org.

Ostomy support
The Medical Center of Trinity, 9330 State Road 54, hosts a monthly support group for ostomy patients and their families on the fourth Wednesday of each month at 5 p.m.

The next meeting is May 28. Walk-ins are welcome.

For information, call (727) 834-4450.

Health 05-14-14

May 15, 2014 By Mary Rathman

(Courtesy of Regional Medical Center Bayonet Point)

Asaro and D’Amario are volunteers of the year
Dominc Asaro and Collen D’Amario have been named the Regional Medical Center Bayonet Point’s 2013 Volunteers of the Year. Asaro has more than 10 years of service and 12,750 hours of dedication. D’Amario joined the volunteers in 2009 and has more than 16,000 hours of service.

There will be an information table at the Land O’ Lakes Library, 2818 Collier Parkway, on Thursdays in May from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., and Fridays from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.

The information also is available at the Land O’ Lakes Recreation Complex, 3032 Collier Parkway, Mondays and Wednesdays from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.

For information, call (352) 518-2000, ext. 9238.

Walk for mental health
Dressing Angels Inc., is hosting its Walk for Mental Health Awareness at The Shops at Wiregrass, 28211 Paseo Drive in Wesley Chapel, May 17 beginning at 9 a.m.

The Dressing Angels charity provides clothing and shoes to mentally ill and homeless children and adults.

Registration begins at 8 a.m., near the Dillard’s parking lot. There will be refreshments and snacks.

Registration is $10 for ages 14 and older, and $5 for children ages 5 through 13.

For information, call Phyllis Lise at (813) 498-7967, or email .

Gulfside memorial services
Gulfside Hospice is hosting a memorial service May 19 at 3 p.m., at Trinity Presbyterian Church of Seven Springs, 4651 Little Road in New Port Richey.

The service is for anyone to remember loved ones who have passed away.

There will be refreshments after the service.

For information, call Gulfside’s bereavement department at (727) 844-3946.

Diabetic travel tips
Access Health Care, 4270 Lake in the Woods Drive in Spring Hill, is offering a lecture called “Travel Tips for Diabetics” May 19 at 1 p.m.

Seating is limited, and reservations are required.

For information, call (352) 597-7249.

Parkinson’s support
The Tampa area Parkinson’s Disease Support Group will meet May 21 at the Church of the Nazarene, 5902 N. Himes Ave., in Tampa.

There will be a general meeting at 1 p.m., and those with Parkinson’s will meet separate from caregivers at 2 p.m.

Light refreshments will be served.

For information, call Jane Lowry at (813) 932-6902.

Gulfside Hospice honors its volunteers
Gulfside Hospice & Pasco Palliative Care’s volunteer department showed its appreciation for its volunteers at three picnics during National Volunteer Week. Gisele Connor, left, and Jeanette Tatro were among the Gulfside Hospice volunteers who were celebrated at the East Pasco Volunteer Appreciation picnic at Zephyr Park during National Volunteer’s Week April 6-12. (Courtesy of Kirsty Churchill)

Free support groups at Florida Hospital
Florida Hospital Zephyrhills, 7050 Gall Blvd., offers the following monthly support groups:

Depression/Bipolar Support Group: every Monday, 7 p.m. to 9 p.m.
Stroke Support Group: every third Thursday, 5 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.
Diabetes Support Group: every first Tuesday, 3:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Parkinson’s Support Group: every second Wednesday, 2 p.m. to 3 p.m.

No registration is required.

For information, call (877) 534-3108.

Silver award for Bayfront Health Dade City
Bayfront Health Dade City has received the Get With the Guidelines – Stroke Silver Quality Achievement Award for implementing specific quality improvement measures outlined by the American Heart/Stroke Association for the treatment of stroke patients.

The hospital earned the award by meeting specific quality achievement measures for the rapid diagnosis and treatment of stroke patients at a set level for a designated period.

These measures include proper use of medications and aggressive risk-reduction therapies aimed at reducing death and disability, and improving the lives of stroke patients.

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

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

Registration is required. Lunch will be provided.

For information, call (813) 929-5432.

Community Health Fair
Florida Hospital Zephyrhills, C1 Bank and Elks USA will host their Community Health Fair June 11 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., at Elks Lodge 2731, 6851 Wire Road in Zephyrhills.

The event will feature free health screenings, health and wellness education, door prizes, and a low-cost lunch.

The event includes lunch, a Chinese auction, door prizes, vendor tables and raffles.

Cost is $30 per person, with discounts for table purchases. Sponsorships are available starting at $75.

All proceeds benefit the Alzheimer’s Family Organization.

For information, visit tinyurl.com/AlbertaFashion.

CARES programs
CARES Enrichment Center, 13906 Fifth St., in Dade City, offers these activities:

Adult Day Care: Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Participants receive breakfast, lunch and a snack, along with organized activities. The program provides social and health services to adults who need supervision in a safe place outside the home. Reservations are required, and veterans are accepted. For costs and available funding, call (352) 519-9300.
Senior Moments Early Memory Loss Program: Tuesdays and Thursdays from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. For reservations or information, call (352) 518-9300.

There is a minimum requirement of four volunteer hours per week.

Volunteers receive a complimentary meal in the café on the days they work, and recognition at the annual volunteer banquet. Orientation sessions are twice a month.

If interested, applications are available online at FloridaHospital.com/Zephyrhills, or by calling (813) 779-6256.

Support for stroke patients
Florida Hospital Zephyrhills has a stroke support group that meets the third Thursday of every month at 3 p.m. The group offers support to stroke patients and their caregivers.

The meetings are in the hospital’s wellness conference room at the hospital, 7050 U.S. 301, in Zephyrhills.

For information, visit FHZeph.org.

Volunteer at Bayfront Health
Bayfront Health Dade City, 13100 Fort King Road in Dade City, is looking for energetic men and women to join its volunteer team, including junior volunteers between the ages of 14 and 18.

Opportunities are available in both clinical and nonclinical areas of the hospital.

To learn more about the program, call Amy Fort at (352) 521-1195.

New surgery option eases recovery for hysterectomy patients

May 15, 2014 By B.C. Manion

Dr. Pamela Twitty made history on April 30 at St. Joseph’s Hospital-North by becoming the first surgeon in Tampa to perform a single-site robotics-assisted hysterectomy.

The type of surgery had been performed previously in Clearwater and St. Petersburg, but not in Tampa, Twitty said.

She used a da Vinci robotic system to perform the surgery, controlling instruments from a console in the operating room.

In traditional hysterectomy surgery, doctors make a five- to seven-inch incision in the woman’s abdomen and remove the uterus through the laceration. That approach leaves noticeable scars and requires a month or two of recovery, Twitty said.

But with robotics-assisted surgery, recovery is quicker with less post-operative pain because it’s less invasive, and it reduces scarring as well.

Twitty performed the surgery on Land O’ Lakes resident Hollie Morris.

“I was pretty excited about it,” the 35-year-old said.

Morris didn’t have any misgivings about being Twitty’s first patient for this procedure because she had an established relationship with the doctor.

“I love Dr. Twitty. I trust her completely,” Morris said.

When Twitty explained the procedure, Morris said she could sense the doctor’s excitement about performing a surgery such as this. At the same time, Twitty wanted to make sure Morris was completely comfortable with the approach.

Morris found the prospect appealing for numerous reasons, she said. For one thing, since she has children, it was important for her to recover quickly and get back to the business of daily life. Secondly, she’d prefer not to have a large scar.

The surgery is done with a small cut in the naval.

“You can’t even see it,” Morris said.

Although she has felt some soreness, Morris said she’s sure she would have felt more pain if she’d had additional cuts.

“The day after surgery, I was up walking around,” Morris said.

In traditional hysterectomies, the size of the scar can vary based upon the surgical procedure that is used, the patient’s anatomy, and what needs to be done, Twitty said. The single-site option may be especially appealing to women in Florida, where swimming and going to the beach are popular pastimes.

“A lot of our patients in this area and in surrounding areas are interested in still being able to wear their swimsuits and their bikinis,” Twitty said. They want to be able to be out in the sun without any sign of their surgery.

The less invasive procedure also typically means less time in the hospital, Twitty said.

With a traditional hysterectomy, the hospital stay is two to four days. With the new surgery, it is often an overnight stay, or in some cases, they can leave the same day.

“And, healing and post-operative pain is typically less,” Twitty said. “You have a much smaller incision. It’s in a location where there’s less tension on the incision. There’s an expedited return to daily life because there’s less recuperation time, less pain.”

Twitty believes this type of surgery will become more commonly used as doctors are trained in using the technology and more patients become aware of it.

“I’ve already started talking to a number of my patients about this technology and being able to offer it,” Twitty said. “They are absolutely excited about it.”

Although robotic surgery itself has been around for about a decade, single-site technology — where one incision is made through the belly button — is a process that’s only been around for the past couple years or so, Twitty said.

“Initially, it was available for general surgeons,” she said. But there has been an expansion of the use by doctors in various specialties and more procedures have been approved.

Published May 14, 2014

Health 05-07-14

May 8, 2014 By Mary Rathman

Diane Ricca recipient of humanitarian award
Regional Medical Center Bayonet Point recently presented Diane Ricca with the 2013 Frist Volunteer Humanitarian Award.

Ricca has volunteered at Bayonet Point since July 2006, accumulating more than 20,000 merit hours. Her work includes the gift shop as well as the volunteer board of directors at large.

Ricca also volunteers with the Sun Coast Health and Education Foundation, All Around Kids Foundation, and various other charities.

CoDA meets in Trinity
The Medical Center of Trinity hosts the Co-Dependence Anonymous group every Thursday at 7 p.m., at 5637 Marine Parkway in New Port Richey.

Upcoming meetings are May 8, May 15, May 22 and May 29.

This group focuses on the common purpose of developing healthy relationships.

For information, call (727) 816-8678 or (727) 858-3013.

Breast cancer support
Florida Cancer Affiliates is offering a bi-weekly breast cancer support group every other Thursday at the New Port Richey center, 5500 Little Road.

The next meeting is May 8 at 6 p.m.

The group will offer open discussion on a variety of topics. Light refreshments will be served.

For information, call (727) 372-9159.

Health care professionals & Alzheimer’s
The University of South Florida Byrd Alzheimer’s Institute, 4001 E. Fletcher Ave., in Tampa, will host “Alzheimer’s Disease: What Health Care Professionals Need to Know” May 9 at 8 a.m.

The program will award three hours of credit for health care professionals. Topics include driving and dementia, creating a safe environment, and medication safety issues.

Cost is $40 per person. Space is limited, and registration is required.

For information, call Mady Ernst at (813) 974-4357.

Hospice’s Grief’s Journey
HPH Hospice will offer an eight-week Grief’s Journey group Tuesdays at 6:30 p.m., starting May 13 at the Marliere Hospice Care Center, 6801 Rowan Road in New Port Richey.

The program is free, however registration is required.

For information, call (800) 486-8784.

Heart healthy nutrition
The Heart Institute at Regional Medical Center Bayonet Point will offer the class “Heart Healthy Nutrition: Eating for a Healthy Heart” May 13 at 1 p.m., at the Rao Musunuru Conference Center, 14000 Fivay Road in Hudson.

Participants can learn eating habits to help prevent and treat heart disease, food label reading, recipe modification and more.

Seating is limited, and reservations are required.

For information, call (727) 869-5498.

MS support group
The Medical Center of Trinity, 9330 State Road 54, offers a monthly support group on the second Tuesday of each month at noon, for those affected by multiple sclerosis.

The next meeting is May 13. Caregivers and family members are invited.

For information, call (727) 372-1568.

Medical Center of Trinity one of best for ER care
The Medical Center of Trinity has received the Women’s Choice Award as one of America’s best hospitals in emergency care.

The award identifies the nation’s best health care institutions and signifies the center’s commitment for creating an extraordinary health care experience for women and all patients, according to a release.

The award is based on patient satisfaction, clinical excellence, and women’s needs when it comes to treatment and quality hospital experience, said Delia Passi, chief executive and founder of WomenCertified, home of the Women’s Choice Award.

Childbirth course
The obstetrics program at Medical Center of Trinity, 9330 State Road 54, is offering a six-week prepared childbirth class beginning May 14.

The class will meet one night per week at 7 p.m.

Cost is $70.

For information, call (727) 834-5630.

Autism group meeting
The autism group Helping HANDs will meet at the Medical Center of Trinity, 9330 State Road 54, May 14 at 7 p.m.

The group is for anyone impacted by autism and related neurological disorders.

For information, call Jonica Chittum at (813) 402-9442 or (727) 534-8230.

Health 04-30-14

May 1, 2014 By Mary Rathman

Health care organizations award scholarships
The Pasco-Hernando State College Foundation received a $7,000 gift from HCA hospitals — Regional Medical Center Bayonet Point and Medical Center of Trinity — as well as a gift of $11,256 from Florida Blue and the Florida College System Foundation. The funds will provide scholarships to help health care PHSC students cover tuition. Students enrolled in PHSC health programs are shown with, in center from left, Regional Medical Center Bayonet Point president and chief executive Shayne George, Medical Center of Trinity chief executive Leigh Massengill, and PHSC president Katherine Johnson. (Courtesy of Pasc0-Hernando State College)

New format for bereavement group
Gulfside Hospice’s bereavement department offers bereavement groups with a set beginning and ending date so that participants can get to know each other and feel more comfortable sharing their feelings during the group sessions. Each new group will last approximately 10 weeks.

The next session in Land O’ Lakes is May 1 to June 26 at 2 p.m., at Harvester United Methodist Church, 2432 Collier Parkway.

For information, call (800) 561-4883.

CoDA meets in Trinity
The Medical Center of Trinity hosts the Co-Dependence Anonymous group every Thursday at 7 p.m., at 5637 Marine Parkway in New Port Richey.

Upcoming meetings are May 1, May 8, May 15, May 22 and May 29.

This group focuses on the common purpose of developing healthy relationships.

For information, call (727) 816-8678 or (727) 858-3013.

Alzheimer’s caregiver program
The University of South Florida Byrd Alzheimer’s Institute and Arden Courts Memory Care Community are sponsoring the free program “Alzheimer’s Disease: What Family Caregivers Need to Know” May 2 from 9:30 a.m. to 3 p.m., at 4001 E. Fletcher Ave., in Tampa.

Topics will include understanding the disease, progress in treatment, communication strategies, managing troublesome behaviors, home and driving safety, and the benefits of clinical trials.

Lunch will be provided. Registration is required.

To reserve a seat, call (813) 974-4357.

Tobacco cessation
Regional Medical Center Bayonet Point, 14000 Fivay Road in Hudson, will host its Tools to Quit class May 2 at 1 p.m.

The class is free and includes nicotine replacement patches, gum and lozenges —while supplies last — and community, website and clinic groups.

Registration is required. For information, call (813) 929-1000, ext. 213, or email .

Nutrition and diabetes
The Medical Center of Trinity, 9330 State Road 54, is offering a community education class “Nutrition & Diabetes” May 6 at 10 a.m.

The class will teach basic principles of nutrition, meal timing, and how carbohydrates, proteins and fats can affect blood sugar.

Seating is limited, and registration is required.

For information, call (727) 834-5630.

Alzheimer’s Caregiver Day
Alzheimer’s Family Organization is hosting its Caregiver Day May 2 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., at Bayfront Health Dade City, 13100 Fort King Road.

The event includes refreshments, lunch, certificate of attendance and guest speakers. Topics include research updates, Medicare fraud and elder law issues.

Cost is $10 for AFO members, and $25 for non-members.

Registration is required.

For information, call (727) 848-8888 or (888) 496-8004.

Stress reduction break
Florida Hospital Zephyrhills is hosting the lecture “Take This Stress Reduction Break” for its diabetes support group May 6 at 3:30 p.m., at the hospital’s Wellness Center conference room, 7050 Gall Blvd.

Those attending will learn techniques of stress management and its benefits for improved health and well-being, memory and cognitive function.

Guest speaker is life coach Veronique Polo.

To register, call (877) 534-3108.

HPH Hospice’s Grief’s Journey
HPH Hospice will host an eight-week Grief’s Journey group for newly bereaved adults.

The group will meet at 2 p.m. on Wednesdays beginning May 7 at HPH’s Resource Center, 37441 Clinton Ave., in Dade City.

The group is free, and individuals who haven’t used hospice services are invited.

Preregistration is required.

For information, call (800) 486-8784.

Head trauma lecture
Florida Hospital Zephyrhills will host “A Bang to the Brain” May 8 at 2 p.m., at the hospital’s Wellness Center, 7050 Gall Blvd.

The lecture will cover concussions and head trauma caused by falls, motor vehicle accidents or sports injuries. Participants will learn the latest facts and treatments.

Guest speaker is Sara Jagger.

To register, call (877) 534-3108.

Women’s health session
Florida Hospital Zephyrhills will present “Nursing & Midwifery: A Holistic Approach to Women’s Health” May 8 at 6 p.m., in the hospital’s Wellness Center, 7050 Gall Blvd.

Join the session to learn how nurses and midwives can help achieve health goals.

To register, call (877) 534-3108.

The next session in Dade City is May 14 to July 16 at 4 p.m., at Gulfside’s East Clinical Office and Bereavement Center, 37826 Sky Ridge Circle.

For information, call (800) 561-4883.

Tools to Quit
Florida Hospital Zephyrhills Wellness Center, 7050 Gall Blvd., will offer the Tools to Quit Tobacco Cessation Program May 15 at 5 p.m.

Registration is required.

For information, call (813) 929-1000.

Community Health Fair
Florida Hospital Zephyrhills, C1 Bank, and Elks USA will host their Community Health Fair June 11 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., at Elks Lodge 2731, Wire Road in Zephyrhills.

The event will feature free health screenings, health and wellness education, door prizes, and a low-cost lunch.

Fashion show fundraiser
The Alzheimer’s Family Organization will host its annual Alberta’s Fashion Show at Heritage Springs Country Club, 11345 Robert Trent Jones Parkway in Trinity, June 17 at noon.

The event includes lunch, a Chinese auction, door prizes, vendor tables and raffles.

Cost is $30 per person. Purchase of a table of 10 and only pay for nine tickets.

Sponsorships are available starting at $75.

All proceeds benefit the Alzheimer’s Family Organization.

For information, visit bit.ly/N3bHU0.

CARES programs
CARES Enrichment Center, 13906 Fifth St., in Dade City, offers these activities:

• Adult Day Care: Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Participants receive breakfast, lunch and a snack, along with organized activities. The program provides social and health services to adults who need supervision in a safe place outside the home. Reservations are required, and veterans are accepted. For costs and available funding, call (352) 519-9300.

• Senior Moments Early Memory Loss Program: Tuesdays and Thursdays from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. For reservations or information, call (352) 518-9300.

Hospital needs volunteers
Florida Hospital Zephyrhills is looking for volunteers to help with a variety of tasks including transporting patients to and from tests, driving the shuttle, distributing mail, cafeteria, clerical and administrative, and more. Volunteers must be at least 14 years old.

There is a minimum requirement of four volunteer hours per week.

Volunteers receive a complimentary meal in the café on the days they work, and recognition at the annual volunteer banquet. Orientation sessions are twice a month.

If interested, applications are available online at FloridaHospital.com/Zephyrhills, or by calling (813) 779-6256.

Health 04-23-14

April 24, 2014 By Mary Rathman

Foundation of Caring fundraiser
The Florida Medical Clinic Foundation of Caring is hosting “Night at the Copa” April 26 from 7 p.m. to 11 p.m., at TPepin’s Hospitality Centre, 4121 N. 50th St., in Tampa.

Freddy Montes y Su Son will provide Cuban music in the atmosphere of Old Havana.

The fundraiser will support needy children and families in Hillsborough and Pasco counties.

For information and registration, call (813) 783-9932, or email .

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.

Moffitt hosts caregivers
H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center & Research Institute is hosting its Caring for the Caregiver program April 26 from 10 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., in the Vincent A. Stabile Research Building, 12902 Magnolia Drive in Tampa.

This is a free program to provide educational sessions and peer support for caregivers of cancer patients.

A light breakfast and catered lunch will be provided. Free valet parking is available.

To register, call (813) 745-8407, or visit tinyurl.com/CFCG2014.

Give blood, get gift card
OneBlood and Walgreens are teaming up for a blood drive April 28 from 1 p.m. to 7 p.m. at these Walgreens locations.

• 20741 Bruce B. Downs Blvd., Tampa
• 22829 State Road 54, Land O’ Lakes

Donors must be 16 years old and weigh at least 110 pounds.

Each donor will receive a wellness checkup and a free $10 Walgreens gift card.

For information, visit OneBlood.org.

Dementia care seminar
Senior Helpers of Spring Hill will host two seminars on dementia care education April 29 at 9 a.m., and at 1 p.m., at The Residence at Timber Pines, 3140 Forest Road in Spring Hill.

Guest speakers are Glen Scharfeld of Senior Helpers, and Teepa Snow, a dementia care and education specialist.

The seminars are free.

To register, call (352) 683-9009.

His and hers health seminar
The Medical Center of Trinity, 9330 State Road 54, will host the seminar “His and Hers: Vaccines, Screenings & Vitamins for Your Health” April 30 at noon.

Guests speakers will be Dr. Stephanie Eldridge and Dr. Amir Shirmohammad, both in family medicine.

Admission is free. A light complimentary lunch will be served. Seating is limited.

For reservations, call (727) 834-5630.

Gulfside volunteer orientation
Gulfside Hospice is hosting a volunteer orientation for new shop volunteers in Central Pasco April 30 from 9 a.m. to noon at the Lutz Thrift Shoppe, 1930 Land O’ Lakes Blvd.

Volunteers must be at least 16 years old. Space is limited.

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

Cancer support group
Florida Cancer Affiliates offers a biweekly support group at its New Port Richey center, 5500 Little Road.

The next meeting is April 30 at 6 p.m.

Refreshments will be served. Reservations are advised.

For information, call (727) 808-4818.

The next session in Land O’ Lakes is May 1 to June 26 at 2 p.m., at Harvester United Methodist Church, 2432 Collier Parkway.

For information, call (800) 561-4883.

CoDA meets in Trinity
The Medical Center of Trinity will host the Co-Dependence Anonymous group every Thursday at 7 p.m., at 5637 Marine Parkway in New Port Richey.

Upcoming meetings are May 1, May 8, May 15, May 22 and May 29.

This group focuses on the common purpose of developing healthy relationships.

For information, call (727) 816-8678 or (727) 858-3013.

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 at the church, 2348 Collier Parkway in Land O’ Lakes, beginning at 7 p.m.

Cancer survivors and caregivers are welcome to attend.

For information, call (813) 949-4565.

Free vaccinations offered for Pasco sixth graders

April 24, 2014 By B.C. Manion

Pasco County Schools is teaming up with the Florida Department of Health to provide free Tdap vaccinations to current sixth graders at the county’s middle schools on May 22.

Students entering seventh grade in Florida must provide proof of the Tdap vaccination — which stands for tetanus, diphtheria and acellular pertussis — before they will be allowed to start school, according to state health officials.

Parents must sign a permission form before their child can be vaccinated, and must be submitted to the school their child attends by May 1.

The vaccinations are required because tetanus, diphtheria and pertussis can be very serious diseases, according to a fact sheet prepared by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, and the Tdap vaccine can provide protection.

Tetanus also is known as lockjaw. It causes painful muscle tightening and stiffness, typically all over the body. It can lead to tightening of muscles in the head and neck, and make it difficult or impossible for someone to open his or her mouth, to swallow, or even to breathe.

It is fatal for about one in five people who are infected, according to the CDC.

Diphtheria can cause a thick coating to form in the back of the throat. It can lead to breathing problems, paralysis, heart failure and death.

Pertussis also is known as whooping cough. It causes severe coughing spells, which can cause difficulty breathing, vomiting and sleep disruptions. It can lead to weight loss, incontinence and rib fractures. As many as two in 100 adolescents and five in 100 adults are hospitalized or have complications, which could include pneumonia or death.

Diphtheria and pertussis are spread from person to person through coughing or sneezing, according to the CDC. Tetanus enters the body through cuts, scratches or wounds.

Before vaccines, there were as many as 200,000 cases of diphtheria and pertussis a year, and hundreds of cases of tetanus. Since vaccination began, tetanus and diphtheria have dropped by about 99 percent, and pertussis by about 80 percent, the CDC said.

The health department has scheduled when the vaccinations will be given at each of the district’s middle schools. The schedule for the May 22 vaccinations locally is:

• Long Middle School: 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.

• Rushe Middle School: 9 a.m. to 11 a.m.

• Stewart Middle School: 12:30 p.m. to 2:30 p.m.

• Centennial Middle School: 9 a.m. to 11 a.m.

• Weightman Middle School: Noon to 2 p.m.

• Pasco Middle School: 8 a.m. to 10 a.m.

• Pine View Middle School: 12:30 p.m. to 2:30 p.m.

For additional information, call the health department at (727) 861-5250, at either ext. 268 or ext. 224, or the school district’s health services office at (727) 774-2360, (813) 794-2360, or (352) 524-2360.

Published April 23, 2014

Seminar helps business owners understand Obamacare

April 17, 2014 By B.C. Manion

There are supporters and detractors of the Affordable Care Act — better known as Obamacare — but no matter where you stand on the issue, unless you qualify for a subsidy, you’ll pay higher insurance rates.

Insurance agent Jason Greif helps explain some of the ins and outs of health care reform, also known as Obamacare. (B.C. Manion/Staff Photo) — Insurance agent Jason Greif helps explain some of the ins and outs of health care reform, also known as Obamacare.
(B.C. Manion/Staff Photo)

That’s what Jason Greif, an insurance agent with U.S. Health Group, told members of a health insurance reform class at the SmartStart Dade City incubator April 8.

The insurance agent, who has been in the industry for eight years, explained changes in health care law, talking about the pros and cons of the new requirements, and the different kinds of insurance coverage that are available in the health care marketplace. Greif also explained the penalty for not purchasing health insurance, which is now mandatory, and he talked about the risks that people face when they don’t have insurance.

“A lot of people are misinformed,” Greif said.

Part of Obamacare took effect on March 23, 2010, he said, noting that’s when insurance companies had to begin covering what has been defined as essential health benefits.

“There are 10 of them,” Greif said. They include services ranging from child immunizations to maternity care, mammograms to colonoscopies.

“What do you guys think is going to happen to the rates if the insurance companies have to cover everybody’s colonoscopy? They go up,” he said. “I actually am for Obamacare for a lot of different reasons. But it has increased the rates.”

Another big change happened on Jan. 1. That’s when insurance companies could no longer deny coverage.

“No matter what, anybody can get health insurance,” Greif said.

That’s good news for people who were denied coverage before, but it drives up insurance rates as a result. In the past, people with certain conditions could only get coverage as part of a group.

“It’d really be disheartening for me to say, ‘There’s nothing I can do. You have diabetes, I can’t get you insurance,’” Greif said. “Nobody could do anything for them,” unless they were able to get covered through a group.

“It’s almost more of a socialistic approach to healthcare. But for people that are sick, for people that get a subsidy, it’s actually an amazing program because those people were not able to get insurance,” Greif said.

This year’s open enrollment is over. The only way to enroll through the marketplace outside of the enrollment period is to have a life-changing event such as moving, losing group insurance or having a child, Greif said.

The next enrollment period begins Nov. 15.

Those who want to get an idea of what their rates would be can go to a website, HealthSherpa.com, to get a fairly close estimate of what to expect, Greif said.

“This is a great website. The quotes are usually $5 higher or lower. It’s a way you can get an accurate quote and you don’t have to go on Healthcare.gov and create a profile and give all of your personal information out,” he said.

Now, health insurance rates are based on age, tobacco use and ZIP code, Greif said. Eligibility for subsidies is based on income.

Still, there are choices in the types of coverage and the rates that are attached to those, he said. Some coverage types allow people to choose doctors who are inside or outside of their network, while others allow people to use only doctors within their networks.

Some of the networks have more doctors than others, Greif said. It’s important to find out exactly what the plan includes.

Greif recommends a plan that allows individuals the most latitude when it comes to selecting which doctors and hospitals will treat them.

For those who disregard the law and do not get health insurance, the penalty is either $95 or 1 percent of the individual’s modified gross adjusted income, whichever is higher, Greif said.

Regardless of where people stand on Obamacare, Greif said having coverage is essential. Without it, he said, people who have serious medical emergencies or conditions can go bankrupt in a matter of days.

Published April 16, 2014

Pets give patients a paw-inspiring boost at St. Joseph’s

April 17, 2014 By Michael Murillo

Hospital patients enjoy getting visitors, whether they’re friends, family, neighbors or church members.

Jason, left, and Journey are two of the volunteer therapy dogs at St. Joseph’s Hospital-North. The program, which began last July, now has six dogs visiting patients during the week. (Courtesy of St. Joseph's Hospital-North) — Jason, left, and Journey are two of the volunteer therapy dogs at St. Joseph’s Hospital-North. The program, which began last July, now has six dogs visiting patients during the week.
(Courtesy of St. Joseph’s Hospital-North)

But sometimes it’s the visitors on four legs that bring out the biggest smiles.

“Everybody enjoys a visit from a therapy dog,” said Ron Graff, whose Golden Retrievers, Journey and Jason, make weekly visits to St. Joseph’s Hospital-North on Van Dyke Road in Lutz. “I get comments from patients all the time that many of them are missing the pets that they have at home, and it was just great to be able to spend a little bit of time talking to the dog or petting the dog.”

Graff brings one of his dogs to either the St. Joseph’s location in Lutz or Tampa a couple of times a week, and spends about 90 minutes walking the halls and seeing if patients would like a visit from a therapy dog. Many say yes, and each session lasts up to 15 minutes as patients interact with them and enjoy a break from the routine life of a hospital stay.

Patients also like to hear information and stories about the dogs, especially Journey. Born without a front left paw, the 5-year-old gets around just fine with the help of prosthetics.

So when Journey at 75 pounds and Jason at 90 pounds make their way down the hallway, they attract attention for several reasons, and find themselves welcome in many rooms.

Graff pointed to studies showing health benefits of human interaction with pets, but said the response from seeing one of his dogs on visiting day is immediate and easy to see.

“There are certainly situations where patients are very quiet and somewhat withdrawn,” he said. “They just brighten up when the dogs come in, and as we leave, they’re clearly feeling much better about it.”

Nurses also will direct him toward patients who might be having a tough day, received difficult news, are struggling with treatment, or simply could use a visitor.

It’s not just the patients who look forward to their visits, volunteer resources auxiliary coordinator Karen Telfer said.

“At the nurse station, as soon as they see them approaching you can tell that they can’t wait to come and say hello,” she said. “They know all the dogs by name. It just seems like a real morale booster for the staff.”

There are currently six dogs in the rotation at St. Joseph’s-North — Graff’s dogs are two of them, Telfer said. Each one is trained, evaluated and certified by a nationally recognized dog therapy organization.

All of the dogs must be up-to-date on vaccinations and shots and undergo health screenings. The owners also go through normal hospital volunteer protocol.

While the pet therapy has been around for a while at the Tampa location, it’s relatively new in Lutz: St. Joseph’s-North began its program just last July. In that time, Telfer believes the program has already reaped dividends in the form of happier patients and genuine anticipation of their visits.

“It cheers them up and boosts their morale,” she said. “We’ve actually had one patient say they hoped they were still there the next week to see that dog again.”

In fact, the feedback has been so positive and implementation so easy, Telfer would like to see it expanded at some point in the future. Right now they have one service dog coming each weekday between the hours of 1 p.m. and 8 p.m.

Her goals for the program include expanding so two or three service dogs could be scheduled on those days, as well as finding possible weekend options.

Graff enjoys giving back to the community and volunteering his time, along with Journey and Jason, to benefit others. But he said the best part of the experience is being able to reflect on what they accomplish after each visit.

“My favorite part is really just seeing the reaction from patients, and after about an hour or an hour-and-a-half, heading home and knowing that we’ve been able to make at least one person feel better even though they’re in the hospital,” Graff said.

Published April 16, 2014