Communicare | Spring 2021

Communicare l Improving the health of our community in all we do

SPRING 2021

In this Issue Get the Facts about the COVID-19 Vaccine A New Era of Heart & Vascular Care A New Lease on Life After Cancer

contents From Our President 2

Get the Facts. Get the Shot. 3-4 A New Era of Heart & Vascular Care

5-10

Growing the Greater Good NGHS Building Initiatives

13-18

A New Lease on Life

19-22

Advancements in Stroke Care

23-24

When Clinical Trials Hit Home

25-28

Learning Experiences that Last a Lifetime

29-32

From Our Foundation

33-36

ON THE COVER:

Former heart patient, Jim Owings, is enjoying life after receiving care at NGMC. Read the complete story on pages 5-10.

EDITORIAL STAFF: Abigail Carr, specialist & writer Gregg Carson, designer Sean Couch, director Beth Downs, manager & editor Emily Frost, specialist & editor Kristin Grace, specialist & writer Marie Krueger, specialist & writer Layne Saliba, specialist & writer

743 Spring Street NE Gainesville, GA 30501 770-219-9000 nghs.com

OUR MISSION

“Improving the health of our community in all we do” OUR THANKS TO BOARD CHAIRS Preston Bowen

Hospital Authority of Hall County & City of Gainesville

RK Whitehead

Northeast Georgia Health System

John Nix

Northeast Georgia Medical Center

Pepper Brown, MD

The Medical Center Foundation

Lee Highsmith

The Medical Center Auxiliary

Antonio Rios, MD

Northeast Georgia Physicians Group

Michael Covert

Northeast Georgia Health Partners Network

Gary Dalley, MD

Northeast Georgia Health Partners

If you would like a free subscription, please call 770-219-3840 or visit nghs.com/communicare This organization does not discriminate against any patient because of race, creed, color, national origin, religion, age, sex, disability or because a patient is covered by a program such as Medicare or Medicaid.

Communicare is a health education magazine published by the Public Relations department for the community to support the organization’s mission. nghs.com 01

from our president The spring season is always such a special time for our health system – and the region as a whole. While it’s a time to celebrate new beginnings and growth, it’s also a time of reflection.

As we‘ve seen the number of hospitalizations and new cases of COVID-19 drop significantly since their peak, I am filled with cautious optimism and hope. While we still have a long journey ahead, I know that if we face it together – like we’ve done throughout this entire pandemic – we’ll make meaningful and lasting progress.

One of the key ways you can do your part is by staying safe and staying informed, which includes learning about the COVID-19 vaccine. On pages 3 – 4, we spotlight the key facts everyone should know about the vaccine, including its effectiveness, safety and benefits.

This spring season has also been an exciting one filled with opportunity and innovation – from the addition of new advanced services and facility expansion to inspiring new stories of patient triumph and beyond.

A bright future lies ahead for NGHS Heart & Vascular Services as we continue expanding our capabilities and providing the highest level of care. Hear the life-changing stories of five patients who share how our advanced program saved and improved their lives on pages 5 – 10.

Making comprehensive care even more accessible and convenient for patients continues to be a major priority for Northeast Georgia Health System (NGHS), and we have made tremendous strides toward this goal with new building initiatives blanketing the entire Northeast Georgia region. Read more on pages 13 – 18.

On pages 19 – 22, you can read the inspiring story of Gary Dudash, a 52-year-old grandfather who faced a serious cancer diagnosis, but now has a new lease on life thanks to the comprehensive care he received from NGMC’s Cancer Services and their affiliation with Winship Cancer Institute of Emory University.

We also see the unbelievable impact that innovation has had throughout the Health System, including a feature on pages 23 – 24 about NGMC’s new world-class neurointerventional lab, which allows our experts to provide life-saving stroke care like never before. And on pages 25 – 28, we explore the far-reaching impact our clinical trials and research programs have on patients now – and in the future.

Don’t miss the heartfelt stories of NGHS volunteers, who despite the impact of COVID-19, remain dedicated to showing their support and making a difference at a time when it’s needed most. Read more about their unique experiences and how you can help on pages 29 – 32.

You’ll also read about the exciting milestones the NGHS Foundation celebrated this year – thanks to the generosity and dedication of our employees, physicians, volunteers and donors – on pages 33 – 36.

By the time this issue of Communicare reaches you, I am hopeful that we’ll all be looking ahead to a happy and healthy summer. I hope that you continue staying safe, and that you’ll get the facts about the COVID-19 vaccine.

Remember, if we all do our part, we can move forward – and heal – from this pandemic.

Carol H. Burrell, President & CEO

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Get the facts.

4 facts everyone should know about the COVID-19 vaccine WHILE WEARING A MASK, WASHING YOUR HANDS AND KEEPING A SAFE DISTANCE HAVE ALL BEEN CRUCIAL TO SLOWING THE SPREAD OF COVID-19, THE VACCINE PLAYS AN EVEN BIGGER ROLE IN THE LONG-TERM PREVENTION – AND ENDING – OF THE PANDEMIC. IN ADDITION TO INSPIRING NEW HOPE AND INNOVATION, THE COVID-19 VACCINE HAS ALSO SPURRED ON QUESTIONS AND DOUBT. HERE ARE THE FACTS: 1. The COVID-19 vaccine is safe.

Safety is the most important requirement for the vaccine and is assessed in trials by independent experts. The two most important ways safety is ensured are: 1. Most side effects occur within 6 weeks of vaccine administration, and the FDA has required 8 weeks of safety monitoring so it can track any side effects.

2. The FDA also advises a minimum of 3,000 participants to assess safety during a trial. The trials of the COVID-19 vaccine included 30,000 to 50,000 participants.

2. The COVID-19 vaccine will not change your DNA. The vaccine is an mRNA vaccine and does not interact with our DNA in any way. Instead, it gives instructions for our cells to make a harmless piece of what is called the “spike protein” – just like the spikes on the COVID-19 virus.

Our immune system begins building an immune response and making antibodies. At the end of the process, our bodies have learned how to protect against future infection.

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3. What is in the vaccine?

The Pfizer and Moderna COVID-19 vaccines contain strands of messenger RNA inside a special coating that protects it from enzymes in the body that would otherwise break it down. The Johnson & Johnson COVID-19 vaccine is a viral vector vaccine, using a modified version of a different virus to deliver instructions in the form of genetic material (a gene) to a cell.

None of the vaccines can give you COVID-19, and they DO NOT contain: • • • • • •

Live COVID-19 virus Egg products Blood products Beef products Pork products Government tracking devices

4. The COVID-19 vaccine does not cause infertility or miscarriage.

There is no evidence to support claims that the COVID-19 vaccines cause infertility or miscarriage. The mRNA is rapidly broken down by the cell once the instructions have been transmitted, so it does not cause mutations or cellular defects, and has not been associated with infertility.

Get the shot.

Now that you’ve decided that the COVID-19 vaccine is right for you, where can you get the shot?

1. Mass Vaccination Sites There are nine mass vaccination sites across the state, including one at the Habersham County Fairgrounds.

MyVaccineGeorgia.com not only explains current rules for eligibility and allows those who are eligible to pre-register for an appointment, but also allows anyone who is not yet eligible to sign up for email updates.

3. Local Physician Practices Your local doctors at Northeast Georgia Physicians Group, Longstreet Clinic and more may also be providing the vaccine to established patients. If you haven’t already let your family physician know that you’d like to get a vaccine, it may be worth a phone call to see if they’re keeping a list of patients to call when they have doses available.

Visit myvaccinegeorgia.com to pre-register or sign up for email updates.

2. Georgia Department of Public Health The Georgia Department of Public Health has extensive vaccine information on their website, including: •

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• •

A Georgia Vaccine Locator tool that will allow you to search for vaccine providers near you Scheduling for vaccine appointments at local Health Departments across the state Links to grocery stores and pharmacies providing the vaccine An interactive COVID-19 vaccine dashboard Current eligibility details

GETTING YOUR VACCINE ISN’T THE ONLY WAY TO HELP US HEAL. As the pandemic and the tremendous strain on our frontline heroes continues into the second year, you can still donate to the COVID Relief Fund. Gifts will help our staff and patients recover.

Visit nghs.com/give to support the COVID Relief Fund with your gift today.

Visit dph.georgia.gov/covid-vaccine to find these resources or call 888-457-0186 to schedule a vaccine appointment at your local Health Department.

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AN ESTABLISHED CARDIOVASCULAR PROGRAM IS NOTHING NEW FOR THE COMMUNITIES OF NORTHEAST GEORGIA. FOR THE PAST 20 YEARS, THE HEART AND VASCULAR EXPERTS AT NORTHEAST GEORGIA HEALTH SYSTEM (NGHS) HAVE SERVED OUR COMMUNITIES WITH DEDICATION, EXPERTISE AND INTERDEPENDENCE. AS ONE PATIENT, MELISSA ANN HULSEY, CAN ATTEST, THE COMPREHENSIVE AND MULTI-DISCIPLINARY APPROACH TO CARE MAKES ALL THE DIFFERENCE - AND ULTIMATELY SAVES LIVES. “There was a chance I could’ve ended up in a wheelchair – or I may not even be here today,” reflected Melissa Ann Hulsey, 54-year-old grandmother of two. “Looking back, I remember struggling to walk short distances and the near constant leg pain – it was excruciating.”

“Going forward with surgery was high risk due to the fact that I was taking blood thinners at the time — but I had complete faith in Dr. Smith’s skillset and expertise,” said Hulsey. “I trusted her, Dr. Kolakalapudi, Dr. Mohammed and their collaboration with the entire care team. Together, they did an incredible job.”

That’s when Melissa learned that she had peripheral artery disease (PAD), a condition that affects upwards of 3 million Americans every year. Not only was she coping with severe plaque build-up in her aorta and the iliac arteries in her legs, she was also experiencing chest pain and needed heart care.

Now, nearly four months out from surgery, Melissa is feeling healthy, strong and grateful to get back to doing what she enjoys most – walking and playing with her grandchildren. And, in her mind, none of this would’ve been possible without Dr. Smith’s life-saving care.

“I met Dr. Kolakalapudi, a cardiologist with The Heart Center, when I was admitted to the hospital for chest pain,” said Hulsey.

“She was so wonderful and helped coordinate all of my diagnostic testing and care, including my cardiac intervention and stents with Dr. Mohammed. Their teamwork and collaboration made it an extremely easy and smooth process.”

“It’s hard to put into words how amazing, strong and caring Dr. Smith truly is,” expresses Hulsey. “Her dedication and bravery were apparent, as she did whatever it took to save my legs and my life – even when the odds were against us. She is the reason I am here today, and, because of that, she will always be my hero.”

While her heart health was rapidly improving, Melissa and Northeast Georgia Physicians Group (NGPG) vascular surgeon, Sumona Smith, MD, knew that the blockages in her aorta and iliac arteries needed to be treated – and quickly. She received an aortobifemoral bypass, a surgery that uses a specialized tube to connect the aorta and femoral arteries, restoring normal blood flow to the legs and allowing blood to travel around (bypass) any blockages.

In addition to NGHS’ Vascular Services, all of the cardiology subspecialties – non-invasive cardiology, heart failure, electrophysiology, cardiovascular surgery, structural heart care and interventional cardiology – have seen recent expansion and innovation, impacting countless lives along the way.

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GROWTH IN NON-INVASIVE CARDIOLOGY

To ensure women fully understand their distinct heart health needs, The Heart Center of NGMC has created a specialized program, offered at The Heart Center of NGMC’s locations in Braselton, Cumming and Gainesville, and includes: • A multi-disciplinary team of experts focused on identifying and treating women’s heart health needs • Specialized services and screenings to identify heart conditions unique to women in their earliest, most treatable stages • Educational resources aimed at empowering women to better understand and take charge of their heart health

Meet our women’s heart & vascular experts and schedule your appointment at heartngmc.org/women

In August of 2020, The Heart Center of Northeast Georgia Medical Center (NGMC) made history when it welcomed six new cardiologists to the practice – four of whom specialize in non-invasive and general cardiology. This significant growth helped make it easier to schedule appointments with the experts who focus on preventive care, disease diagnosis and long-term treatment at NGHS. In addition to expanding our team of non-invasive experts, it was essential to add more and better imaging technologies to ensure the most thorough and in-depth diagnoses. To make that possible, The Heart Center of NGMC added a new heart CT scanner at the flagship location in Gainesville and will add a PET CT scanner later this summer.

“This new imaging technology is extremely important for all of our heart and vascular patients” says Ioannis Parastatidis, MD, PhD, a non-invasive cardiologist at The Heart Center of NGMC. “Having the most innovative technology available ensures that we detect both common conditions and complex diseases as quickly and precisely as possible, and that leads to better care and outcomes.”

PIONEERING HEART FAILURE CARE With one of the most established and innovative heart failure programs in the state, The Heart Center of NGMC continues to develop this important subspecialty. In fact, in August of 2020, two new heart failure and transplant cardiologists, Vikram Raje, DO, and Nitya Sthalekar, MD, joined the program to work alongside Ugochukwu Egolum, MD, chief of Cardiology and medical director of NGHS’ Advanced Heart Failure Program.

“Heart failure services at The Heart Center of NGMC are rapidly expanding,” said Dr. Egolum. “As we continue to lead in heart

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failure care, our primary focus is simple – to improve our patients’ quality of life. That’s why we’re utilizing the most innovative treatments available – like the Ventricular Assist Device (VAD) – participating in clinical trials and providing educational and support resources throughout the care journey.”

“I had been in and out of the hospital for months coping with heart failure, and that’s when I met Dr. Egolum,” said Charlotte Childs, a 53-year-old mother of four. “I remember that day so clearly because I had never met anyone like him.

He was so well-versed in heart failure care and he took the time to truly listen and connect with me as a person.”

Now, Charlotte feels better than ever before.

Thanks to a personalized medication regimen and ongoing disease management, she’s able to live her life without any limitations and is genuinely excited for the future.

“Heart failure can stop you in your tracks,” said Charlotte. “Before you know it, simple, everyday tasks, like getting dressed or showering, can become too difficult to do on your own.

That’s a scary reality that most people can’t even imagine, but Dr. Egolum gave me my life back.”

ADVANCEMENTS IN ELECTROPHYSIOLOGY Arrythmias affect the heart’s electrical system and are one of the most common types of heart disease. Working closely with NGPG’s cardiovascular and thoracic surgeons, the electrophysiologists at The Heart Center of NGMC provide the most innovative procedures available for patients with arrythmias – including left atrial appendage closure devices, like Watchman, biventricular implantable cardioverter defibrillators and more. They also have ample experience in performing radiofrequency ablations and cryoablations, which are some of the most common and proven techniques for treating arrhythmias.

“I had been struggling with atrial fibrillation for a long time,” said Doug Watson, a 67-year-old U.S. Forest Service retiree.

“I experienced dizziness, fatigue and headaches… it’s nothing to play around with.”

After meeting Salem Sayar, MD, an electrophysiologist at The Heart Center of NGMC, Doug learned that his best option for long-term relief would be a transcatheter ablation, which is a quick, minimally-invasive procedure.

Dr. Sayar is just an amazing physician,” said Doug. “He’s caring and personable, but also a

very experienced and knowledgeable doctor – and Kristin Gilmore, RMA, along with his entire team is the same way. He not only saved my life, but the care he provided drastically improved my overall quality of life.”

To be able to care for more patients like Doug, The Heart Center of NGMC’s team of electrophysiologists expanded last year when Shalabh Chandra, MD, joined the practice, bringing years of experience and a special interest in mind-body wellness.

SETTING THE STANDARD IN CARDIOVASCULAR SURGERY Led by NGPG’s cardiovascular and thoracic surgeons, NGHS has built one of the most respected and well-known cardiac surgical programs in the state.

This goes beyond the minimally-invasive valve reconstruction surgery – one that only a handful of surgeons from around the country can perform – to encompass a multitude of different procedures that treat conditions of the heart, lungs, esophagus and blood vessels.

WHAT IS WATCHMAN? Also known as a left atrial appendage closure, Watchman is a specific kind of implantable device designed to reduce the risk for stroke in patients living with Atrial Fibrillation (AFib).

The Watchman device, which is roughly the size of a quarter, is placed using a minimally-invasive approach where a specialized catheter guides and secures the device to the left atrial appendage — the part of the heart most likely to form blood clots. This prevents future clots from escaping and causing a stroke.

With more than 100 years of collective experience, the NGHS heart and vascular surgeons have consistently been recognized by the American College of Cardiology and The Society of Thoracic Surgeons for having outstanding results in clinical care and patient outcomes.

Plus, with the recent additions of Dimitrios Tsirigotis, MD, who specializes in cardiovascular surgery, and Jason Budde, MD, who specializes in advanced treatment of esophageal cancer, NGHS now has six fellowship-trained surgeons and a team of eight advanced practice providers all dedicated exclusively to cardiovascular and thoracic surgery.

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By utilizing the most innovative techniques and approaches to care, this team can effectively treat all valvular diseases, aneurysms, congenital heart diseases and blockages, even the most complex and serious, like multi-vessel coronary artery disease and severe aortic stenosis.

“When I first got the news that I had severe stenosis of the valve, I panicked,” said Jim Owings, 68-year-old grandfather of 10. “I’ve always been someone who goes on long hikes and gets ample exercise.”

Once the diagnosis settled in, Jim continued to manage his condition with medication and lifestyle adjustments; however, his symptoms only continued to worsen. That’s when surgery became one of the few options he had left.

“There’s a lot of fear and uncertainty that surrounds heart surgery, of course,” said Jim. “Dr. Dan Winston was patient, thorough and extremely knowledgeable, but what impressed me the most was the reputation he had earned among other surgeons across the state. It was a truly great experience because of Dr. Winston and the entire cardiovascular and thoracic surgical team, and I am still amazed by how smoothly it all went.”

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INNOVATION IN STRUCTURAL HEART Traditionally, when there was disease affecting the heart wall, valves or muscles, the only real treatment option was open heart surgery. Now, many of those treatments are available through minimally-invasive procedures.

“The world of structural heart care is always rapidly evolving and advancing,” says Pranav Kansara, MD, medical director of the NGHS’ Structural Heart Program. “That’s why it’s so important to stay up-to-date on the newest techniques, procedures and devices available – and by doing so, we’re ensuring our patients receive the most innovative care possible for some of the most complex conditions.”

The NGHS Structural Heart Program pulls expertise from interventional cariology and cardiovascular and thoracic surgery to provide truly comprehensive care. In fact, this multi-disciplinary collaboration begins with NGHS’ Valve Clinic long before a patient ever receives surgery. Cardiologists, surgeons and advanced practice providers in the NGHS Valve Clinic all review a patient’s unique health needs and risks to determine the safest and most effective treatment possible.

Peggy Vardeman, an 87-year-old retired science teacher and long-time volunteer at NGHS, experienced this team approach when she needed Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement (TAVR), which she underwent in March of last year.

“I’ve known Dr. Winston for several years and have the utmost faith in his abilities – he really is the best,” reflects Peggy. “But the level of care and attention I received from the entire team, namely, Structural Heart Coordinator, Ansleigh Setzer, nurse practitioner, was just remarkable. I am grateful for my care team and for longtime friends, like Ashley Simpson, nurse practitioner.

WHAT IS A TAVR? Also known as a Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement, a TAVR is a minimally-invasive procedure used to treat aortic valve stenosis. When a narrowing or blockage of the aortic valve occurs, a replacement valve is inserted to correct the opening and restore normal blood flow.

This procedure is performed with both an interventional cardiologist and a cardiovascular and thoracic surgeon.

Having experienced multiple heart and vascular interventions in the past, Peggy was prepared for a lengthy recovery after her TAVR procedure, but she’s still amazed at how quickly she recovered – and how great she’s feeling.

“The innovative treatments and technology they have now are just absolutely amazing – heart care has come so far,” said Peggy.

“I didn’t realize how bad I was feeling before the procedure or recognize all the symptoms I had, but this procedure has helped me to feel so much better. It really is a miracle.”

LIFE-SAVING INTERVENTIONAL CARDIOLOGY “If people could plan for heart attacks or cardiac arrest, these conditions wouldn’t be quite so deadly,” says Nima Ghasemzadeh, MD, interventional cardiologist at The Heart Center of NGMC. “Because they’re unforeseen, it’s our job to have an extremely effective and rapid response system in place. This ensures patients receive the exact care they need in life-threatening situations.”

NGMC’s hospitals recently became the first in the state to be designated as Emergency Cardiac Care Centers (ECCC).

“This designation doesn’t change the high-level of interventional care we’ve always provided in emergent situations,” says Kevin Meyer, NGMC’s director of Invasive Cardiology. “However, it has taken the streamlined and standardized system of cardiac care that NGHS has pioneered over the past decade and made this the expectation across the entire state. This pivotal legislation provides a framework that first responders, hospital staff and patients alike can all understand and reference.”

Each ECCC facility is designated as a level 1, 2, or 3 based on its capabilities, services and resources: • Level 1 hospitals perform open heart surgery and interventional cardiac catheterizations.

• Level 2 hospitals perform interventional cardiac catheterizations.

• Level 3 hospitals stabilize patients until they are transported to a Level 1 or Level 2 center.

Based on these specifications, NGMC Gainesville received Level 1 designation, NGMC Braselton received Level 2 designation and NGMC Barrow and NGMC Lumpkin both received Level 3 designation.

“Being the first in the state with ECCC-designated hospitals is a huge achievement for our system, but the true accomplishment comes with knowing we are getting each patient the precise care they need as quickly as possible,” says Meyer. “Ultimately, this all comes down to ensuring more lives are saved.”

There’s so much to love about heart care at Northeast Georgia Medical Center, where leading cardiologists and surgeons are making breakthroughs for us every day. To schedule an appointment at any of our 13 locations or a video visit, go to heartngmc. org/more-to-love.

The highly-trained interventional cardiologists at NGHS have a strong partnership with local first responders and as a result, all four of

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A NEW, RENOWNED LEADER Earlier this year, NGMC welcomed internationally-known physician, Habib Samady, MD, as the clinical service line leader for Heart & Vascular Services.

Before joining NGMC, Dr. Samady served more than a decade as the Director of Interventional Cardiology for the Emory University Hospital System. In that role, he performed complex procedures including coronary interventions; oversaw 14 cardiac catherization laboratories for four hospitals and more than 24 interventional cardiologists; trained more than 30 clinical cardiologists and five interventional cardiology fellows per year; and helped establish Emory University’s complex coronary centers and women’s heart disease program among the top in the nation.

“During my time at Emory University – as a cardiologist, a teacher and a researcher– I learned about the tremendous teamwork it takes to elevate a program from being recognized locally and statewide to becoming nationally and internationally renowned,” says Dr. Samady. “Here at NGMC, we’re building

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on an extremely strong foundation of excellence in heart and vascular care and looking ahead to an even brighter future.”

Dr. Samady has also served as a Professor of Medicine and is recognized as one of the foremost international experts in coronary physiology. He guides a leading international clinical research program, is extensively published in leading medical journals and has a passion for innovation – serving as the Director of the Emory Cardiovascular Biomechanical Core Laboratory and the co-founder and Chief Medical Officer of Covanos, an advanced cardiovascular imaging company.

“I am extremely impressed by NGMC’s collaborative team of exceptional cardiologists, skilled surgeons, advanced practice professionals and frontline staff,” expresses Dr. Samady. “Our passion for excellence and deep interdependence is driving all of us to aim higher, work harder and provide even better care – all while focusing first and foremost on our patients. Our program is truly better and stronger now than ever before.”

THERE’S SO MUCH TO LOVE

Here in Northeast Georgia, we all have so much to love, like knowing we have leading heart hospitals right here.

Where clinical experts use advanced imaging and biomechanics to find blockages, place stents and perform the most complex surgeries – supporting a lifetime of heart health through technology and cutting-edge research.

More reasons to love Northeast Georgia Medical Center.

Schedule your appointment by visiting heartngmc.org /love l 770-874-5134

NORTHEAST GEORGIA HEALTH SYSTEM BUILDING INITIATIVES Northeast Georgia Health System’s (NGHS) mission of improving the health of the community inspires a tireless commitment to innovate and grow, as the healthcare needs of the region expand. Soon, that will include building several new facilities throughout the region, all of which will improve access to high-quality care and advanced technology — while also expanding the number of services and specialties offered.

Early renderings of NGMC Gainesville’s future Patient Tower, may not match final structure or appearance.

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NGMC GAINESVILLE One of the largest and most impactful Growing the Greater Good projects is a new, multi-story patient tower, which is to be built next to the current North Patient Tower. This new tower is projected to open in late 2024 and will include a series of notable improvements throughout the Northeast Georgia Medical Center (NGMC) Gainesville campus – all so patients can get the care they need close to home and more quickly than ever before.

The relocation of the Emergency Department (ED) – one of the busiest in the state – to the new tower will help streamline treatment and allow patients to be seen as quickly as possible.

“When it comes to providing life-saving care in an emergency situation, it’s crucial to be as efficient as possible,” says Mohak Davé, MD, NGMC chief of Emergency Medicine.

“Our new ED will be strategically designed to ensure that we’re seeing patients not only faster, but in rooms that will improve the patient experience, which is increasingly important as the need for emergency and trauma services continues to grow.”

As progress with the new patient tower continues, patients throughout the area don’t have to wait until 2024 to benefit from expansion and innovation at NGMC. In fact, there are several new developments you may have missed.

A new Neurointerventional Lab opened in November 2020, making it possible for NGMC to provide critical stroke interventions that were previously only available at hospitals in Atlanta. In fact, Sung Lee, MD, Northeast Georgia Physicians Group (NGPG) neurointerventional surgeon, is the only physician in Northeast Georgia that performs mechanical thrombectomies. Read more about how the new neurointerventional lab saves lives on pages 23 -24.

NGMC Gainesville also opened a new endovascular operating room (EVOR) for the minimally-invasive treatment of complex diseases in the arteries, veins and lymph nodes. With highlyspecialized technology in the EVOR, NGHS’ vascular surgeons will be able to care for the most complex and advanced vascular conditions more quickly and effectively.

To learn more about comprehensive vascular care at NGMC and the new endovascular operating room, visit nghs.com/vascular-surgery.

Mohak Davé, MD, NGMC chief of Emergency Medicine

The renowned Heart & Vascular Services of NGHS will also be moving to the new tower, expanding and improving access to the complete spectrum of cardiology services. Read more about exciting new advancements in heart and vascular care at NGMC on pages 5-10.

The new patient tower will pave the way for other exciting changes including: • The addition of nearly 150 new patient beds will ensure more critical patients are closer to the new ED, operating rooms, imaging and other support services.

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New operating rooms and interventional suites will increase the number and type of surgeries that can be performed, including complex stroke, neurosurgery, cancer and vascular cases.

The addition of a new helipad on the roof of the tower will provide faster access to life-saving trauma, heart, stroke and surgical care.

• The addition of more patient rooms will create an opportunity for future renovation of the South Tower.

A look inside the state-of-the-art endovascular operating room (EVOR) at NGMC Gainesville.

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NGMC BRASELTON NGMC Braselton opened its doors just six short years ago and hasn’t stopped growing since. Surrounded by a flourishing community filled with young families, active retirees and new businesses, there’s no shortage of growing healthcare needs – and NGMC Braselton plans to answer the call for expanded care.

“Even from the very beginning, NGMC Braselton exceeded patient volumes because there was such a high demand for exceptional, community-based healthcare,” says Anthony Williamson, president of NGMC Braselton. “Throughout the last several years, we have built a strong relationship with this community, so as their needs continue to evolve and grow, we will expand to provide the expert care residents count on – and more.”

Together, these new projects will more than double the size of the current ED. Plus, the additional space will allow for the laboratory and pharmacy to be relocated and expanded.

NGMC and Longstreet Clinic are also making progress on the expansion of the Cancer Center in Braselton, which is expected to open later this year. The new Cancer Center will house Longstreet Clinic’s medical oncology practice and radiation oncology services in the same space – making it easier for patients who need both treatments and allowing for better care coordination and collaboration between cancer providers.

It will also include a dedicated entrance, a larger waiting and reception area and increased visibility from the road.

The NGMC Braselton campus also plans to welcome a second multispecialty office building, Medical Plaza 2, in the near future. The building is planned to house a new ambulatory surgery center – complete with four operating rooms, two procedure rooms and prep/recovery areas – as well as additional physician offices. Development is pending ongoing review by the Georgia Department of Community Health.

One of the key Growing the Greater Good projects for NGMC Braselton will be the expansion of the Emergency Department (ED). Currently located on the first floor of the hospital, the new additions will include new treatment rooms and larger waiting areas. As a part of this ED expansion, a new 12-bed Emergency Observation Unit has already opened on the fourth floor.

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NGMC LUMPKIN After stepping in to ensure that residents of Lumpkin County would not be without a local healthcare provider, NGHS has been hard at work determining this hospital’s physical future in the county.

NGMC Lumpkin first opened in July 2019 – after renovations to the former Chestatee Regional Hospital in Dahlonega were complete – with plans for a brand-new facility long in the making. Despite the building delays that resulted from the COVID-19 pandemic, plans for the future NGMC Lumpkin haven’t changed, and NGHS is moving forward with design development and supporting timelines.

“While COVID-19 has shifted our initial timeline for the new NGMC Lumpkin facility, that hasn’t stopped us from adapting and continuing to make progress,” says Chad Hatfield, vice president of Regional Hospitals. “We’ve taken important steps, like extending the lease of the current NGMC Lumpkin to ensure there’s no lapse in care as the new facility is under construction, along with actively recruiting specialists to serve patients — all to ensure we’re in the best position possible to care for this community.”

NGMC has already broken ground on a new Medical Plaza in Buford, which will be home to Urgent Care, The Heart Center of NGMC and NGPG practices for family medicine, OB/GYN, urology, sports medicine, orthopedic surgery and general surgery — in addition to imaging and lab services. This new building will offer ample space, the latest technology and a spa-like environment, all close to home for the Buford community.

NGMC is also expanding it’s presence in Jackson County with a new Medical Plaza in Jefferson - slated to open in summer 2022. This new building, located at the intersection of US Highway 129 and GA Highway 11, will offer convenient access to Urgent Care, The Heart Center of NGMC and imaging services, along with NGPG practices for family medicine and other specialties.

With several Growing the Greater Good projects on the horizon for NGHS, the coming years are sure to be filled with exciting new advancements and improvements. These projects are yet another example of how NGHS is striving to improve the health of the community in all we do.

The future NGMC Lumpkin campus will be built on 57 acres near the intersection of Highway 60 and Georgia 400.

It’s planned to offer a comprehensive range of services including a fully equipped Emergency Department and a variety of outpatient services like testing and diagnostics, imaging, surgery and procedure suites. Specialty care will likely be provided though a mix of on-site providers and video consultations from experts at other hospital campuses, as an emphasis will be placed on integrating technology into patient care. Plus, the initial construction will allow plenty of room for future growth.

“I hope everyone in the community can sense our enthusiasm and excitement for all of our Growing the Greater Good projects and will join us on this journey,” says Carol Burrell, NGHS President & CEO. “After all, it’s together that we can make the greatest impact, and we couldn’t do it without the support of those we serve.”

GROWTH THROUGHOUT THE REGION

To see the latest plans for growth at NGHS, visit nghs.com/growing.

Meeting patients where they are – in their very own communities – is also an important part of Growing the Greater Good.

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Rendering of NGMC’s new Medical Plaza located in the heart of the Buford community - opening spring 2022.

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ADVANCEMENTS in STROKE CARE The first stroke patient in Northeast Georgia Medical Center’s (NGMC) new Neurointerventional Lab in Gainesville began talking before she was off the table and walked out of the hospital on her own two feet just a couple of days later.

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“I wanted to get home,” said Anita Cannon, 72. “To my home, to my children and my grandchildren. That’s all I could think about, and they gave me the chance to do that.”

Before the lab was constructed, though, Cannon, who was on vacation at a North Georgia campground, would have been transferred to another hospital for care after NGMC staff did all they could do. But with the new, state-of-the-art lab, which is the only one of its kind in Northeast Georgia, Cannon was able to get the care she needed right away from a skilled and passionate team.

“I can’t say enough about them,” Cannon said. “Everybody I talk to — even my doctor in Florida — said I would have been in a nursing home had I been down there. He’d never seen a team that moved so fast. It was just amazing.”

Sung Lee, MD, a neurointerventional surgeon with Northeast Georgia Physicians Group (NGPG) and NGMC’s medical director of Neurointerventional Surgery, is the only doctor in the region performing mechanical thrombectomies — a critical stroke intervention that uses small catheters and wires to remove blood clots from the brain.

It’s the procedure he performed on Cannon, and just one way he’s helping to bring NGMC’s level of care to new heights.

“We are grateful for our colleagues in Atlanta, but the delay in getting to timely treatment was a real detriment to our community,” said Dr. Lee. “This is a game-changer for how we treat strokes, and it gives us the ability to perform other complex brain, spinal and vascular procedures. It’s the dawn of a new era of neurological care in Hall County and the region.”

On top of the new lab opening in Gainesville, NGMC Gainesville also received its recertification as a Primary Stroke Center through DNV GL Healthcare. Shortly afterwards, NGMC Barrow and NGMC Braselton were certified for their first time as Primary Stroke Centers – a major accomplishment for Northest Georgia Health System (NGHS) and North Georgia.

Primary Stroke Center certification means that a hospital can provide treatment for a broad range of stroke conditions, along with some acute therapies, and admit patients to a designated stroke unit specifically assigned for stroke care. Primary Stroke Centers also act as a resource center for other facilities in the region, including being a main transfer site for stabilized stroke patients.

“Time is of the essence when it comes to stroke,” said Meghan Glabach, executive director of Neurosciences at Northeast Georgia Health System (NGHS). “We’ve worked diligently to ensure stroke patients receive care in a timely manner.”

“With the new lab in Gainesville and three hospital campuses certified as Primary Stroke Centers, the community can rest assured that it will receive the best and quickest stroke care close to home,” emphasized Glabach.

When it comes to strokes, seconds could be the difference between full recovery and long-term effects, so it’s important to recognize the signs and symptoms of stroke. The acronym BE FAST is an easy way to remember what to look out for: Balance difficulties Eyesight changes Face drooping Arm weakness Speech slurring Time to call 911

To learn more about NGMC’s leading stroke care and the neurointerventional team that’s saving lives, visit nghs.com/stroke-care.

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Research at NGMC: Beyond the Standard of Care

WHEN CLINICAL TRIALS HIT HOME

When Sheila Patterson, a 58-year-old lung cancer patient who has never smoked, first received the diagnosis of stage 2B non-small cell lung cancer, she felt determined – to be her healthiest, to do everything she could to fight it and to help future patients with the same diagnosis. As a former athlete and teacher, one might say those traits are also simply in her DNA. Sheila learned about the opportunity to participate in a clinical trial from her oncologist, Christina Saurel, MD, who thought it would be a good fit.

“I believe that participating in this study will shed more light on how this new drug can be useful for other cancer patients like me,” said Shelia. “Even with all of the potential side effects Dr. Saurel and my immunotherapy nurse told me about, it was really important to me to participate.”

Now, two years into the clinical trial for the new drug, Sheila has been through many ups and downs, but truly believes it is making a difference.

“At the end of the day, participating in this clinical trial allows the research team to learn and gather valuable information.

It’s a positive thing, a hopeful thing.”

NGMC RESEARCH & COVID-19 With the onset and evolution of the COVID-19 pandemic, research continues to play a central role in decision-making at every level of society and within the healthcare setting.

NGMC inpatient physicians initiated and participated in the expanded access to convalescent plasma for the treatment of COVID-19, a clinical trial sponsored

by Mayo Clinic. When the FDA granted emergency approval for expanded access of convalescent plasma, that was due in large part to the data gathered at NGMC as well as sites across the United States.

When you receive a life-altering diagnosis, whether it’s cancer or a serious heart condition, the endless questions, growing uncertainty and fear can be overwhelming. Even after the initial shock subsides, living with one of these conditions can take its toll – mentally, physically and emotionally.

It’s in these moments that Northeast Georgia Medical Center (NGMC) has a chance to truly be a source of healing and hope when it’s needed most. For many patients, participating in a clinical trial or research can be the innovative and uplifting change they need.

“Whether patients are just beginning their care journey or they have exhausted the treatments available for their specific condition, clinical trials provide an opportunity to try something new,” says Holly Jones, PhD, director of Research Administration at NGMC. “In addition to the outstanding care patients receive in our system, participating in clinical trials can provide hope, which is extremely powerful.”

WHAT ARE CLINICAL TRIALS? Whenever there’s a new method to prevent, diagnose or treat a specific health condition, clinical trials are used to scientifically evaluate the safety and effectiveness of a new drug or medical device.

Whether it’s a medication, procedure, device or another type of therapy – clinical trials help the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) determine which experimental medical interventions may be approved for future use on a larger scale.

For example, pacemakers weren’t available until they went through clinical trials. Now, they’re one of the most proven and trusted treatments for an abnormal heartbeat.

Clinical trials play a crucial role in advancing the future of care and are the primary way that researchers make new, progressive and effective treatments available to patients.

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CLINICAL TRIALS AT NGMC While clinical trials have recently expanded to include a wide array of specialties, NGMC’s research efforts have historically focused on the areas of oncology and cardiology. Due to the continued hard work and efforts of research nurse managers Donna Patrick, RN, and Trena Davis, RN, as well as our clinical research team, NGMC patients with cancer and heart disease typically have access to more than 40 clinical trials per year.

“Over the last several years, NGMC has seen a strong and steady increase in the number of clinical trials and scholarly activities we’re involved in,” said Dr. Jones. “This includes enhancing patient care with new quality improvement initiatives, evidence-based practice, as well as strong participation in national clinical trials. This dedication to research and advancement truly sets NGMC apart from other healthcare systems in the region and more importantly, it can improve patient care – both now and in the future.”

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Over the last 15 years, NGMC has participated in several national clinical trials that have brought new therapies to market, including the anticoagulant drug Eliquis, and the breakthrough cancer immunologic drug, Keytruda. NGMC’s participation in the clinical trials helped support the FDA approval of both drugs, which are now considered a standard of care in the respective areas of heart and cancer care.

NGMC IS CURRENTLY OFFERING A WIDE RANGE OF CLINICAL TRIALS. To see if one may be right for you, talk with your doctor to learn more about how you might qualify for a trial.

For more information about ongoing research efforts at NGMC, call 770-219-9010 or visit nghs.com/research.

Now that Shelia is at home, she can continue doing what she loves most: walking with her beloved dog.

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VOLUNTEERING TO MAKE A DIFFERENCE

LEARNING EXPERIENCES THAT LAST A LIFETIME Five years ago, Dominick Garcia began volunteering at Northeast Georgia Medical Center (NGMC) Braselton as a high school teen volunteer. What started out as a simple way to make a positive impact at his local hospital, quickly turned into so much more.

“It’s hard to find the words to really describe what it’s like to be a volunteer or to measure the true impact it has on you,” said Dominick.

“Knowing that you’re making someone’s day just a little bit better or easier is so rewarding – and it’s a feeling you can’t get anywhere else.”

Dominick Garcia, NGHS volunteer

As a volunteer, Dominick has helped by offering refreshments to visitors in waiting areas, organizing and delivering COVID-19 supplies, serving as a screener at NGMC Braselton and much more. Because the experience was so impactful, Dominick remains active and has transitioned to a young adult volunteer.

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“Especially now in this time of COVID-19, when healthcare workers are stretched so thin, it means a lot to come back to NGMC and offer my time and support,” said Dominick.

“Being around the hard-working and dedicated employees of NGMC has truly opened my eyes to the compassionate side of healthcare – and I’m more motivated than ever to pursue my dream of working as a doctor.”

NGHS VOLUNTEER RECRUITMENT CONTINUES NGHS continues to recruit volunteers under 65 with no underlying health conditions and is currently implementing the return of volunteers 65 years of age and older in phases, beginning with those who are vaccinated, to serve within specific service areas of the hospital campuses and with community vaccine clinics.

Visit nghs.com/volunteer to explore volunteer opportunities at NGMC.

VOLUNTEERING TO MAKE A DIFFERENCE

A PASSION FOR SERVING HOSPICE Tom and Bobbie Siler’s passion for serving Hospice families began years ago, when their parents received exceptional care from a hospice program in Indiana. When Bobbie later heard about the volunteer program at Hospice of Northeast Georgia Medical Center (NGMC), she immediately knew it was something she wanted to do.

“Being a retired nurse, I always knew I wanted to do something that touched on my background without going back to work,” says Bobbie. “Because of my personal experience with hospice, my special passion is for serving the caregivers. I want to care for them in any way I can, even if that means lightening their load by sitting with their loved one while they run errands.”

At her volunteer training session, Bobbie learned about the special programs and recognition ceremonies for veterans offered by Hospice of NGMC. That’s when she knew Tom, her husband and a veteran himself, would enjoy volunteering as well.

“In my experience, veterans don’t talk a lot about what they’ve been exposed to,” says Tom. “It takes some understanding and experience to relate to them, and I’m able to do that.”

“We understand each other, and I love doing it. Unfortunately, we’ve been unable to volunteer during the pandemic, and I miss it terribly.”

Even though she hasn’t been able to visit patients in their homes lately, Bobbie participates in “tuck-in” calls every Thursday to check on caregivers and make sure they have everything they need for the weekend.

“I feel a real connection to the caregivers – even over the phone,” says Bobbie. “Sometimes they just need to know someone is looking out for them. The comfort we provide is important.”

Tom and Bobbie both agree that Hospice of NGMC staff are exceptional people with unique gifts and have witnessed firsthand how the staff members become a big part of the families’ lives.

“The care provided to hospice patients allows them to live in a way that honors them, their wishes and their legacies,” says Tom. “It’s an amazing thing to witness. We feel so rewarded by what we do as volunteers. The program has been a godsend for both of us.”

In 2020, the Love Light annual fundraiser and tree lighting celebration helped to raise funds for Hospice of NGMC. Donations support the bereavement program and complementary services provided to patients beyond what insurance will cover. These above-and-beyond services are designed to bring comfort, support connection, aid with relaxation and help build memories during a difficult time in their lives.

Watch the 2020 Love Light celebration and hear touching stories from some of our hospice families at nghs.com/lovelight.

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2020 was filled with unforeseen challenges, struggles and overwhelming difficulty. But it was also a year filled with courage, dedication and selflessness.

From the committed physicians and employees that fill the halls of Northeast Georgia Health System (NGHS) to our gracious volunteers and donors, every facet of our community went above and beyond to show just what it means to be a healthcare hero. And we couldn’t be more grateful.

Through heartfelt cards, homemade signs and donated treats and meals, NGHS employees felt the added support and appreciation they needed to push through some of the darkest moments in the history of health care, and continue to do so with grace, patience and hope.

Now more than ever, our employees’ deep interdependence and support for one another shines through. One example of this is the numerous employees who give back through WATCH, the employee giving club of NGHS.

In 2019, WATCH expanded its impact with the addition of the Change Grants Program. This program was created to encourage employees to share their innovative ideas centered around improving the patient, visitor or employee experience at NGHS. Recently, the WATCH Change Grants Program selected the ideas of six employees, Angie Canton, Rhonda Hammond, Adam Raulerson, Brian Ellerbee, Robin Ketchum and James Reinhart to fund in the coming years.

NGHS is thrilled about the response to Change Grants Program and the exciting projects that have received funding, all of which will have an exponential impact on many for years to come. Thank you to all WATCH employee donors who help bring compassionate and thoughtful projects like these to life.

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PHYSICIAN PHILANTHROPY MAKES AN IMPACT For more than 50 years, Northeast Georgia Medical Center (NGMC) and local physicians have provided high quality healthcare services to our entire region. As the community has grown, the number of resources it takes to deliver care, create innovation and improve the health of our community has also grown. This is where the James H. Downey Society plays an essential role.

The Downey Society allows philanthropically-minded physicians the ability to further their daily efforts of helping people in the community by taking an active role in the funding initiatives of the Northeast Georgia Health System. Downey physicians choose an area of need within the health system to focus all of their donations each year. These gifts have helped bring Epic to Good News Clinics, improving coordination of care for this fragile population, and have funded innovative mental health programs impacting community health beyond the walls of the hospital or their practices. Most recently, Downey members donated to the Relief Fund to aid in patient care and staff support. They are true philanthropic heroes.

We are so grateful for our thoughtful, compassionate and driven physicians. After this last year, when so many have lost so much, it’s a great honor to recognize this group of philanthropic and civic-minded physicians.

To see the complete list of Downey Society members, visit nghs.com/downey. If you see your physician on the list - please make sure to share your gratitude!

GIVING TO THE NGHS COVID RELIEF FUND A great way to show your gratitude for the compassionate and expert care provided by our front-line workers is to make a donation to the NGHS COVID Relief fund. Your support is essential to helping our patients and staff heal.

Make a donation at nghs.com/give.

INPATIENT HOSPICE RENOVATIONS: COMPASSIONATE CARE WHEN IT’S NEEDED MOST Hospice is a philosophy of compassionate care, focusing on patient comfort and supporting quality of life. Each year, Hospice of NGMC team members work tirelessly to care for patients and their families. Inpatient hospice facilities at NGMC Gainesville provide essential services to families and patients during some of life’s most difficult times. The new facilities located inside the South Patient Tower includes a comfortable, home-like and calming environment where families and loved ones can share sacred moments.

To help improve NGMC’s Inpatient Hospice Unit, Jack and Janice Frost made a generous transformational gift to support renovations to the unit, which were recently completed. This newly remodeled space includes a welcoming family waiting area. Additionally, a new quiet room has been added to the center, providing a calming space for families and staff to find respite from the emotional stresses they may feel.

Care Made Possible By Donors Hospice of NGMC has been able to provide personalized and compassionate care throughout the last 30 years because of generous donor support, improving quality of life for each patient when it’s needed most. Learn more about this exceptional program on pages 31-32 and make a donation at nghs.com/give/hospice.

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COMPASSIONATE GIFT TRANSFORMS SPIRITURAL CARE AT NGMC Thanks to a transformational gift from the V.C. and Mary A. Puckett Foundation to the Northeast Georgia Health System (NGHS) Foundation, Northeast Georgia Medical Center (NGMC) recently opened its new pastoral care offices, to care for our growing and diverse community during life’s difficult and challenging times.

During their 60-year marriage, Verdis and Mary Puckett lived by the values of faith, humility, kindness, service, stewardship and most of all, love. Now, Mary and her late husband have ensured those same values continue to be carried out within NGMC Gainesville through the newly renamed V.C. and Mary Puckett Center for Spiritual Care.

“Verdis always cared so much about the people around him — friends and family, church members, customers and especially his employees,” said Mary. “I wanted to make sure that together, even after he passed, we could do something to help care for those around us. Having the Puckett Center for Spiritual Care carry our family name is a great honor, and I know Verdis would be proud.”

“It’s hard to find words to express how grateful we are to the Pucketts,” said Chris Bray, president and chief development officer of the NGHS Foundation. “Their generosity and passion for helping others is evident as these renovations and enhancements will greatly impact all who walk through the hospital doors for years to come.”

The Puckett Center for Spiritual Care was recently dedicated after being refurbished to meet the needs of the program. With 20 volunteer chaplains, four chaplain residents and seven full-time staff chaplains, the space needed an enhanced lobby, larger reception and conference space, lockers and bathrooms for round-the-clock chaplains, as well as a few new welcoming touches that reflect the services provided. The renovated space offers a more calming and hospitable environment for the volunteer chaplains and other guests. “This is really for all of the people we come in contact with as a Spiritual Care department,” said Chris Jennings, director of Spiritual Care at NGMC. “We want to serve them in the best way possible, and this renovated space will help us achieve that.”

Along with the renovation, what used to be known as Pastoral Care at NGMC will now be known as Spiritual Care.

As the department has grown, it has become apparent that NGMC serves a wide range of people with myriad religious backgrounds — making Spiritual Care a more fitting name.

Members of the department providing spiritual care will be identified as chaplains, instead of clergy or pastors.

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DISCRIMINATION ISISAGAINST DISCRIMINATION AGAINSTTHE THELAW LAW Northeast Georgia Health System, Inc. (NGHS) complies with applicable Federal civil rights laws and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, disability, or sex.

NGHS does not exclude people or treat them differently because of race, color, national origin, age, disability or sex.

NGHS: • Provides free aids and services to people with disabilities to communicate effectively with us, such as: • Qualified sign language interpreters • Written information in other formats (large print, audio, accessible electronic formats, other formats) • Provides free language services to people whose primary language is not English, such as: • Qualified interpreters • Information written in other languages If you need these services, contact: NGHS’ Customer Care Resource Center Telephone Number: 770-219-2998.

If you believe that NGHS has failed to provide these services or discriminated in another way on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, disability, or sex, you can file a grievance with: NGHS Corporate Compliance 743 Spring Street NE Gainesville, GA 30501 Telephone Number: 770-219-5403, (TTY: 1-800-255-0135) (VRS: 1-888-888-1116) Fax: 770-219-2910, or Email: corporate.compliance@nghs.com.

You can file a grievance in person or by mail, fax or email. If you need help filing a grievance, NGHS Corporate Compliance is available to help you.

You can also file a civil rights complaint with the U. S. Department of Health and Human Services, Office for Civil Rights electronically through the Office for Civil Rights Complaint Portal, available at https://ocrportal.hhs.gov/ocr/portal/lobby.jsf, or by mail or phone at: U.S. Department of Health and Human Services 200 Independence Avenue, SW Washington, D.C. 20201 Phone: 1-800-868-1019 TDD: 1-800-537-7697 Complaint forms are available at http://www.hhs.gov/ocr/office/file/index.html.

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CHÚ Ý: Nếu bạn nói Tiếng Việt, có các dịch vụ hỗ trợ ngôn ngữ miễn phí dành cho bạn. Gọi số 770219-1689 (TTY: 1-800-255-0135) (VRS: 1-888-888-1116). 주의: 한국어를 사용하시는 경우, 언어 지원 서비스를 무료로 이용하실 수 있습니다. 770-2191689 (TTY: 1-800-255-0135) (VRS: 1- 888-888-1116) 번으로 전화해 주십시오. 注意：如果您使用繁體中文，您可以免費獲得語言援助服務。請致電770-219-1689 (TTY: 1-800-255-0135) (VRS: 1-888-888-1116).� �

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Appelez le 770-219-1689 (TTY: 1-800-255-0135) (VRS: 1- 888-888-1116). ማስታወሻ: የሚናገሩት ቋንቋ ኣማርኛ ከሆነ የትርጉም እርዳታ ድርጅቶች፣ በነጻ ሊያግዝዎት ተዘጋጀተዋል፡ ወደ ሚከተለው ቁጥር ይደውሉ 770-219-1689 (መስማት ለተሳናቸው: 1-800-255-0135) (VRS: 888-888-1116). ध्यान दें: यदद आप ह द िं ी बोलते हैं तो आपके ललए मुफ्त में भाषा सहायता सेवाएं उपलब्ध हैं। 770-219-1689 (TTY: 1-800-255-0135) (VRS: 1-888-888-1116). पर कॉल करें ।

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