Communicare | Summer 2022

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

SUMMER 2022

In this Issue When Cardiac Care Becomes Life-Changing A Doctor’s Dream Job Weight-Loss Journeys: Support for a Lifetime

contents From Our President When Cardiac Care Becomes Life-Changing Turning a Corner

2 3-7 9-10

Weight-Loss Journeys: Support for a Lifetime

11-12

A Doctor's Dream Job

13-16

Growing the Greater Good

17-20

Empowering the Physician Leaders of Tomorrow

21-24

Donors Set to Change Hospice

25-26

From Our Auxiliary

27

Volunteering to Make a Difference

29-30

Community Benefit Report

31-32

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 Martha Randolph

Hospital Authority of Hall County & City of Gainesville

Spence Price

Northeast Georgia Health System

Phillippa Lewis Moss

Northeast Georgia Medical Center

ON THE COVER: Cardiac arrest survivor, Cory Eubanks, is moved to tears when expressing the gratitude he felt for the care he received following his collapse during a weekend bike race.

Read the complete story on pages 3-8.

EDITORIAL STAFF: Abigail Carr, writer Gregg Carson, designer Sean Couch, executive director Beth Downs, editor Erin Gibson, editor Kristin Grace, writer Marie Krueger, writer Courtney Randolph, writer Layne Saliba, writer

Pepper Brown, MD, Chair

Northeast Georgia Health System Foundation

Katie Crumley

The Medical Center Auxiliary

Bedri Yusuf, MD

Northeast Georgia Physicians Group

Antonio Rios, MD

Northeast Georgia Health Partners Network

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 More than ever, I am in awe of all that Northeast Georgia Health System (NGHS) is doing. As with any new season, there are limitless opportunities before us; opportunities for growth and change – and opportunities to serve and support you and the people you love.

In March, Northeast Georgia Medical Center (NGMC) Gainesville celebrated the official groundbreaking of a new patient tower which will increase clinical service space and enhance patient care. This is just one of our many expansion and improvement projects that are Growing the Greater Good. Find updates and a timeline of these projects on pages 17-20.

Additionally, providing high quality services remains a top priority at NGHS. On pages 3-7, you’ll read about the comprehensive, life-saving care Cory Eubanks received after he went into cardiac arrest during a bike race last year.

NGHS’ STEMI System, which is responsible for Cory’s accelerated recovery, was recently recognized by the Georgia Department of Health and led a new designation for NGMC. Speaking of recognitions, NGMC Gainesville was recognized as a Comprehensive Stroke Center last September – a certification that means we can treat any stroke-related event regardless of type or severity. NGMC is one of only six hospitals in the state to receive this distinction. Hear how our team made a difference for patient Larry Murphy on page 9.

On pages 11-12, you’ll read about the transformative journey Kristin Holman and Dana Thomas took as patients of the Bariatric Weight-Loss Center at NGMC. The Center provides many support options to help patients achieve their weight-loss goals from start to finish.

As the inaugural class of NGMC internal medicine residents graduate this June, the opportunities available to them as physicians are endless. They will take the lessons they learned while serving our patients and community and carry that with them throughout their careers. Meanwhile, we are excited to have more new residents join us across several specialties in July. Learn more on pages 21-24.

It is not hard to find things to celebrate at NGHS. Our team seeks to grow and improve each day, and serving you is the foundation of our values and beliefs. I hope that comes through in the stories you’re about to read. Thank you for trusting us with your health, and I hope you have a safe and happy summer!

Carol H. Burrell, President & CEO

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WHEN CARDIAC CARE BECOMES LIFE-CHANGING CORY EUBANKS HAD NO PULSE FOR NEARLY 38 MINUTES. JUST A FEW MILES INTO LAST YEAR’S GRAN FONDO BIKE RACE IN HELEN, GEORGIA, THE 54-YEAR-OLD’S LIFE CHANGED FOREVER.

“I’ve always been an avid cyclist, riding thousands of miles every year,” Cory said.

“But pulling my bike over is the last thing I remember from that race.”

CORY SUDDENLY COLLAPSED. LUCKILY, FIVE DIFFERENT CYCLISTS QUICKLY RECOGNIZED THE SITUATION AND PULLED OVER TO HELP. “We checked his neck and wrist for a pulse and didn’t feel anything,” said Genc Imeraj, who was riding nearby that day.

“That’s when we quickly began administering CPR while we were waiting for EMS to arrive. Between the five of us, we alternated performing CPR for nearly 20 minutes.”

AN UNEXPECTED DIAGNOSIS When Emergency Medical Services (EMS) arrived, they worked to quickly assess Cory’s condition, start key medications and perform necessary tests. They put him in the ambulance, inserted a tube to help with breathing, continued chest compressions with the LUCAS device — which aids in CPR by providing automated chest compressions — and monitored his heart rhythm with an electrocardiogram. He was shocked four times with a defibrillator to try and restore a normal heart rhythm as they raced to the hospital.

“In situations like Cory’s, where a life-threatening cardiac event has taken place, our innovative and collaborative partnership with EMS is what makes all the difference,” said Kyle Powers, regional outreach coordinator for Northeast Georgia Health System (NGHS) and former paramedic. “I can’t stress how crucial it was that he received immediate bystander CPR, along with the precise care provided by White County EMS. Together, those factors are what made it possible for our team to provide seamless, life-saving care.”

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Shortly after arriving at Northeast Georgia Medical Center (NGMC) Gainesville, Paula and her two sons, Chad and Adam, braced themselves to see Cory in the Cardiovascular Intensive Care Unit (CVICU). Cory had experienced cardiac arrest — a result of three separate blockages in his coronary arteries.

“It was so hard to wrap my mind around the fact that this had happened to my otherwise healthy and extremely energetic husband.”

Paula Eubanks

THE ROAD TO RECOVERY Before heading to the CVICU – also known as the Ronnie Green Heart Center – the talented team in NGMC’s state-of-the-art cardiac cath labs opened the blockages and carefully placed a stent in Cory’s coronary artery.

“I don’t think any of us will ever forget what it was like to see Cory laying in that hospital bed, sedated and intubated,” Paula said.

“It was such a shock. I don’t know how I would’ve handled this experience without my siblings, children and Cory’s parents there with me. It took all of us coming together for Cory.”

As Cory continued to recover in the CVICU, he received advanced treatments – including therapeutic hypothermia, a treatment that lowers the body's core temperature to help a person heal. He also had additional stents placed by the interventional cardiologists of Georgia Heart Institute. Slowly but surely, Cory continued to make progress, and there’s no doubt in Paula’s mind that the personalized treatment and support from every member of Cory’s care team is ultimately what made the difference.

“We were just amazed with the entire team and the care they all provided to ensure Cory’s miraculous recovery,” Paula said.

“Within days, he was talking, moving and acting more like his normal self. I can hardly find the words to thank the bystanders, EMS and the NGMC team for everything.”

FORWARD-THINKING CARDIAC CARE When Cory experienced a cardiac arrest caused by a blockage in his coronary arteries, the STEMI System of NGHS was initiated, which is what helped to speed up care and ensure the highest level of treatment before he arrived at the hospital. This collaborative system was recognized by the Georgia Department of Health and led to NGHS being the first in the state to have hospitals designated as Emergency Cardiac Care Centers. Coordinating care across services and specialties to save lives, like Cory's is what inspired the creation of Georgia Heart Institute – which launched in fall of 2021.

HOW GEORGIA HEART INSTITUTE IS LEADING THE WAY IN CARDIAC CARE • Centering every facet of care around each patient's unique needs • Bringing together an impressive team of cardiologists, heart surgeons and vascular surgeons to deliver care for every type of heart and vascular condition • Continually finding new and better ways to care for patients through participation in international research and leading clinical trials

“As the state’s most forward-thinking heart and vascular program, Georgia Heart Institute is building on the rich history of care that’s always been provided by NGMC,” said Carol Burrell, president & CEO of NGHS. “With our team of experts working more closely than ever before, we’re improving the heart care our community has always known and is expanding it throughout the state and beyond.”

The new institute is taking all the best parts of NGHS’ trusted program, like the innovative and collaborative processes of the STEMI system, and re-envisioning how to implement them across all heart and vascular specialties.

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“The care Cory received during each step of his journey, even before he arrived at NGMC, really was excellent,” Paula said. “The fact that Cory could receive coordinated treatment that brought in expertise from almost every specialty, including interventional, non-invasive, electrophysiology, and more, really was remarkable.

At a time of so much uncertainty, the confidence in his team of providers was so needed.”

IMPROVING LIVES FOR GENERATIONS For the Eubanks family, the life-saving heart care Cory received creatred a healthier future and a renewed chance to enjoy favorite activities – cycling, traveling and making new memories as a family.

“It’s surreal to me that it happened. I believe I will always try to reconcile that I have gone through this. It’s difficult to understand. I’m just really thankful to be alive and around for my family and kids.”

Cory Eubanks

“Georgia Heart Institute is not simply a new name or practice, it represents a bold new vision and mission of saving and improving lives, just like Cory's,” said Habib Samady, MD, interventional cardiologist and president of Georgia Heart Institute. “We’re delivering on this promise by reimagining the patient experience, coordinating care across all cardiovascular specialties and bringing clinical breakthroughs to everyday care. Ultimately, we’re helping to create healthier tomorrows for those we serve.”

When Cory and Paula think back to last April, there is still much they are processing. While life will never be the same after Cory’s cardiac arrest, there are a few lessons they are grateful to have learned.

“The kindness and selflessness people showed to Cory on that day and during his recovery won’t be forgotten,” Paula said. “The cyclists, the White County EMS and the Georgia Heart Institute team all showed us such compassion, and Cory is here all because of that.”

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NATIONAL RESEARCH AT GEORGIA HEART INSTITUTE Georgia Heart Institute participates in several national research studies, three of which were made possible by funding through the National Institute of Health (NIH), the world’s largest and most advanced biomedical research organization.

Receiving funding from the NIH speaks to the scope of the studies and the potential impact the research may have on heart and vascular care.

An impressive team of cardiologists and clinical researchers are collaborating with experts from around the country to pursue ground-breaking studies in the areas of advanced cardiac imaging, coronary artery disease management and heart attack prevention.

Learn about Georgia Heart Institute or schedule an appointment at georgiaheartinstitute.org

THE FUTURE OF HEART CARE. WE’RE LEADING GEORGIA THERE.

At Georgia Heart Institute, our world-renowned cardiologists, heart surgeons and vascular surgeons bring breakthroughs to patients every day and coordinate expert care more closely than ever. It’s a seamless approach that means healthier hearts for our family – for generations to come.

SCHEDULE YOUR APPOINTMENT WITH US AT GEORGIAHEARTINSTITUTE.ORG/LEADING OR 770-746-8935

TURNING a CORNER Larry Murphy, a 71-year-old retired healthcare worker, was living an active life until he was diagnosed with spinal dural arteriovenous fistula. The rare disease causes abnormal connection between arteries and veins in the outer lining of the spinal cord, affecting just 1 in 200,000 people.

“I’d been having lower back problems for quite a while, but I suddenly started feeling an unusual weakness in my legs,” said Larry. “I sought care at another healthcare facility and ended up getting steroid shots in my back on both the left and right sides to help the sciatica — but nothing seemed to be improving.”

Eventually, Larry was unable to move his legs at all.

“I was scared,” he says. “One day I fell out of my car unable to walk.

That’s when I knew I needed help.”

Larry was taken to the Emergency Department at Northeast Georgia Medical Center (NGMC) Braselton and transferred to NGMC Gainesville in the early morning hours.

“Initially, Larry’s symptoms were thought to be his ongoing degenerative spine disease,” said Sung Lee, MD, NGMC’s medical director of Neurointerventional Surgery and a surgeon with Northeast Georgia Physicians Group. “As his weakness and symptoms progressed, our team was able to scan his spine to identify the abnormal fistula, something that was previously undiagnosed.”

During a fistula surgery, the surgeon runs a catheter up the femoral artery – the largest artery in the leg – to locate the fistula. The artery feeding the fistula is then “embolized”, a procedure that blocks the vessel from pumping more blood into the abnormal artery vein connection.

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“Going into surgery, I had no fears at all,” said Larry. “Dr. Lee made me feel calm from the beginning. I trusted him and his expertise.”

When Larry was evaluated for inpatient rehab on the second day after his surgery, he started walking immediately.

“After surgery, Dr. Lee showed me the scans and it was remarkable to see the difference he had made to heal me,” said Larry. “My whole experience at the hospital was wonderful. From the food service workers and nurses to lab technicians and others, I was treated well and with respect by all. I’ve spent my life working in hospitals and met a lot of doctors, but Dr. Lee is one of a kind.”

Following the surgery, Larry kept his physical therapy appointments to increase his strength and had regular follow-up appointments with Dr. Lee. “I still have a little bit of nerve damage, which takes time to heal, but I don’t let that stop me from living my life to the fullest,” said Larry. “I’m back to my wood-turning hobbies, and I’m able to drive and visit my kids and grandkids. I feel very blessed.”

“Thanks to the collaboration of our neurosciences team, we were able to diagnose and provide the best care for Larry to get back to doing the things he loves,” said Dr. Lee. “We look forward to many more successful surgeries within the neuroscience program as we continue to grow.”

To learn more about our program and watch the story, visit nghs.com/stroke

Your support of Neuroscience Services at NGMC can help provide critical equipment for patients, improving survival rates and quality of life closer to home. To support Neuroscience Services at NGMC, please visit nghs.com/give-to-neurosciences

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– WEIGHT-LOSS JOURNEYS –

SUPPORT FOR A LIFETIME Starting a weight-loss journey can be overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be. With the right team supporting you along the way, reaching your weight-loss goals is possible.

The Bariatric Weight Loss Center at Northeast Georgia Medical Center (NGMC) Gainesville offers a variety of surgical and nonsurgical weight-loss options for patients to become healthier and live a happier, more fulfilling life.

“Bariatric surgery is such a personal decision, because a person’s weight is a big part of who they are,” said Kristin Holman, NGMC patient and Northeast Georgia Health System employee. “I was tired of being over 400 pounds and not being able to walk up the stairs. I brought my bucket list to my first appointment with Dr. Alex Nguyen and told him what I wanted to accomplish after losing weight. I’m proud to say I’ve already accomplished almost everything on that list – including skydiving for the first time.”

NGMC offers a variety of support options to help patients be successful – from a free clothing closet to behavioral health therapy and nutritional counseling – so patients feel supported in all aspects of their lives before, during and after surgery.

“Leaning into a support system has been so important for me throughout my surgery and recovery,” said Dana Thomas. “Since having Gastric Bypass surgery with Dr. Richard in 2020, I have lost over 120 pounds. I have so much more energy than I did before.

I’m able to do activities I enjoy without feeling tired or sluggish. I even started painting.”

“Choosing to have weight-loss surgery is one of the hardest decisions our patients have to make,” said Robert Richard, MD, medical director for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery at NGMC. “We understand this, and we want to make their decision a little

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easier by showing our patients that we are here to support them throughout the surgical process and for the rest of their lives.

Bariatric surgery is a powerful tool that helps our patients make better choices and the significant lifestyle changes needed to be successful with long-term weight loss. Besides losing weight, our patients often eliminate other chronic health conditions they may have – like sleep apnea, high blood pressure or diabetes – because losing weight improves your overall health.”

NGMC’S BARIATRIC SUPPORT PROGRAM INCLUDES A VARIETY OF RESOURCES TO HELP PATIENTS BEFORE AND AFTER SURGERY, INCLUDING: • Support Groups – A safe place for patients to discuss a variety of topics and connect with one another • Behavioral Health Counseling – Individual and family counseling sessions to help identify weight-loss goals and develop skills needed to reach them • Cooking Classes and Recipe Wall – Online resources to teach you how to prepare recipes to support a healthy weight • Weightlifting and Yoga – Classes to incorporate light exercises into your daily routine • “Bari Boutique”, Free Clothing Closet – Patients can shop from gently used clothes of various sizes • Online Community – Closed Facebook group for patients to connect and support one another throughout their journeys

“The support groups and exercise classes have been invaluable to me,” said Dana. “Being someone who suffers from anxiety and depression, having a behavioral health specialist on-staff was extremely beneficial for me as well. It takes a lot of willpower and mental strength to be successful.

Having weight-loss surgery changes every aspect of your life, but it’s so worth it when you see the results. The program at NGMC has truly helped me love myself again. I’m so happy to no longer carry the shame and guilt associated with being overweight.”

“Losing weight has made me feel better and be a happier version of myself,” said Kristin. “I want to encourage other people to do this for themselves too.

While the journey is challenging, the positive changes last a lifetime.”

LEARN MORE

Hear more from Dana and Kristin at www.nghs.com/changinglives

Visit nghs.com/bariatrics for more information on weight-loss options at NGMC

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When Antonio Rios, MD, started practicing medicine, he thought his career would focus mainly on the care of his own patients – the ones he saw every day at his primary care office in Gainesville, Georgia. He had no idea that two decades later, he’d be responsible for the care of nearly 1 million people in the North Georgia region. nghs.com 13

A DREAM JOB nghs.com 14

Dr. Rios was recently named Northeast Georgia Health System’s (NGHS) Chief of Population Health, a role that isn’t too common at health systems across the nation but has become a focus for NGHS. He now helps lead a team that’s identifying the region’s most prevalent health problems, digging deeper to find the root cause and addressing the underlying issues.

“Most people probably think that health systems do this kind of work already,” said Dr. Rios. “But the reality is most hospitals and systems simply don’t have the time or resources to look past the problem of the day, week or month. I’m positive it’s what every doctor wants to do, but this industry makes it hard to actually do that. So, we’re bringing a lot of smart people together to take a new approach.”

Dr. Rios knows the needs of this community inside and out, mainly because he’s been a part of it for so long. After graduating from medical school in Mexico, he moved to the area to complete his residency. In March of 1999, at the age of 33, Dr. Rios started working for Lanier Park Primary Care in an old consignment shop-turned-doctor’s office.

“That’s how I started,” Dr. Rios said. “I was very content, and I didn’t have any intention of pursuing anything bigger or looking for a shinier opportunity.”

But new opportunities tend to find Dr. Rios, thanks to his infectious smile and positive energy. After a couple of years, NGHS acquired Lanier Park Hospital and its Primary Care Clinics, making it part of what is now known as Northeast Georgia Physicians Group (NGPG).

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“Dr. Rios’ natural leadership was one of the key forces that held the group together during those early years,” said Carol Burrell, NGHS president & CEO. “There was a lot of change for hundreds of physicians, frontline staff and patients in a short time – but Antonio always helped us remember that as long as we put the priority on taking good care of people, everything else would work out.”

Because of that informal leadership and so many of his peers looking to him for guidance, a new position of NGPG Chief Physician Executive was created for Dr. Rios in 2008. After almost 13 years serving in that role, he was promoted to Chief of Population Health.

And all along the way — from caring for his few hundred patients at Lanier Park Primary Care, to focusing on the thousands within NGPG, and now upwards of a million across the region — Dr. Rios has found time to serve his community beyond the office.

“I don’t know where he finds the time to volunteer, really,” said Carol. “But that generous spirit is what puts him in places many physicians don’t go, exposes him to so many perspectives administrators rarely hear, and uniquely qualifies him to think about population health at a deeper level.”

Over the years, Dr. Rios has become a strong partner to Georgia Heart Institute and Longstreet Clinic. He’s been a leader on the Georgia Board for Physician Workforce, as well as locally with District 2 Public Health. He’s volunteered for years with non-profits like Good News Clinics and has been a staunch advocate for minority groups in the community. He’s served on the NGPG

Board and the Continuing Medical Education Committee at Northeast Georgia Medical Center (NGMC). He’s also a core faculty member of the Internal Medicine Residency Program at NGMC, which trains the physician leaders of tomorrow, and he still sees patients in his practice at Medical Park 2.

“I always love a good challenge.

And at the end of the day, if you put in the sweat and tears and you’ve done the work, it’s just a matter of time before it all works out.”

Antonio Rios, MD

None of it came easy to Dr. Rios. As a Mexico native, with Spanish being his first language, he had to work on communicating with patients and colleagues. However, Dr. Rios never let the language barrier stop him from providing care in the place he’d come to love.

“I invested a lot of money into flashcards so I could learn all these medical acronyms,” Dr. Rios said with a chuckle. “It was definitely intimidating, but little by little, I learned.”

Dr. Rios had supporters beside him every step of the way, encouraging him and making sure he saw his own potential.

That included Dr. Dave Westfall who took Dr. Rios to leadership courses early in his career. With this help, along with the expertise and relationships he’d already built in the community, Dr. Rios was confident he could help take NGHS and NGPG to new heights.

“I just started furthering my training as a physician leader, providing guidance wherever I could,” Dr. Rios said. “And it’s so rewarding to see NGPG grow from 50 physicians in only primary care to more than 570 physicians and advanced practitioners across more than 20 specialties.”

“It’s the relationship of trust and transparency that Dr. Rios and I have built over the years that led me to ask him to serve as our first Chief of Population Health,” said Carol. “Truthfully, I’m not so sure I asked him to serve, I think I told him I needed him to – and he thankfully agreed.”

Population health is about more than taking care of patients’ immediate needs, but actually anticipating them — finding the major trends and commonalities in the community and attacking the root cause.

“We are working toward not only looking at the patient sitting in front of you, but really at the whole patient panel, even when you don’t see them,” Dr. Rios said. “To expect a positive result from a single, time-limited encounter is kind of too optimistic, or even arrogant.”

Dr. Rios has the 20-plus years of experience taking care of patients in different settings – the hospital, the office, urgent care. This will just be a new type of setting and a broader group of patients. At the end of the day, he said he’s simply hoping to “advance the quality of healthcare” that NGHS provides.

“I really believe in our mission and our core values,” Dr. Rios said.

“This is like a dream job. I was very humbled to be asked to do this, and I was kind of taken aback. But I’m very proud of this organization, the work we’re doing and how we’re going to help people – together.”

To learn more about the population health initiative, visit nghs.com/population-health

Not one to seek the spotlight, Dr. Rios is quick to give credit for that growth to other leaders like Bedri Yusuf, MD, the current Chief Physician Executive for NGPG; Daniel Tuffy, NGPG’s Chief Administrative Officer; and Burrell. In fact, that camaraderie is what led to his new role.

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NORTHEAST GEORGIA HEALTH SYSTEM BUILDING INITIATIVES

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NORTHEAST GEORGIA HEALTH SYSTEM’S (NGHS) MISSION OF IMPROVING THE HEALTH OF THE COMMUNITY DRIVES THE COMMITMENT TO PROVIDE MORE HIGH-QUALITY HEALTHCARE RESOURCES ACROSS THE REGION. NGHS REFERS TO THESE EXPANSION PROJECTS AND INITIATIVES AS GROWING THE GREATER GOOD, BECAUSE THE BUILDINGS ARE MORE THAN JUST THE INFRASTRUCTURE. THEY ARE DESIGNED AND BUILT FOR PEOPLE WHO WILL INHABIT THESE SPACES: THE PATIENTS, VISITORS, EMPLOYEES, PHYSICIANS AND COMMUNITY. IN THE COMING MONTHS, MORE NEW FACILITIES WILL OPEN, OFFERING ADVANCED CARE AND ADVANCED TECHNOLOGY – WHILE ALSO EXPANDING THE NUMBER OF SERVICES AND SPECIALTIES OFFERED FOR HEALTH CARE CLOSE TO HOME.

A NEW PATIENT TOWER IN GAINESVILLE In March, Northeast Georgia Medical Center (NGMC) Gainesville held a ceremonial groundbreaking for a new patient tower — a 927,000-square-foot expansion that will make NGMC Gainesville the third-largest hospital in the state by bed size.

The new patient tower is set to open in early 2025 and will offer: • An enhanced Emergency Department including flex spaces, zero pressure rooms and dedicated pediatric areas • A hub for Georgia Heart Institute's heart and vascular care — with services located nearby for greater convenience • More operating rooms to treat complex stroke and neurosurgery cases • A rooftop helipad for faster access to life-saving trauma, heart and stroke care • Additional parking

NGMC BRASELTON CAMPUS EXPANDING Cancer Center Grows In June of 2021, a new Cancer Center opened at NGMC Braselton. The Cancer Center is located inside Medical Plaza 1 and houses both Longstreet Clinic’s Medical Oncology and Hematology and Northeast Georgia Physicians Group’s Radiation Oncology practices. This dedicated, easily accessible and collaborative space provides a one-stop destination where patients receive comprehensive care with a larger waiting area and more exam rooms.

NGHS PROVIDES EMERGENCY CARE FOR MORE THAN 30,000 PEDIATRIC PATIENTS ANNUALLY. To better meet the need for pediatric care in the region, NGMC Gainesville will offer dedicated pediatric emergency care flex space named for retired pediatrician, Buddy Langston, MD. There, pediatric patients will find a child-friendly waiting area and specially trained pediatric emergency physicians who will treat them in rooms adapted just for their needs.

Outpatient Surgery on the Horizon Set to open Summer 2023, NGMC Braselton’s Medical Plaza 2 will include an Ambulatory Surgery Center (ASC) for outpatient surgeries with four operating rooms, two procedure rooms and prep and recovery areas.

In order to accomplish this part of NGHS’ Growing the Greater Good expansion, the system has set a fundraising goal of $1.5 million to support the construction and naming opportunity in the dedicated pediatric space in the new patient tower. To make a contribution toward that goal, visit nghs.com/give

Now renovations have begun to make room for an additional linear accelerator to meet the growing demand for customized, targeted delivery of radiation therapy and procedures.

Scheduled for completion in Spring 2023, the additional linear accelerator will greatly expand access to radiation therapy services at the Cancer Center.

“Medical Plaza 2 will allow us to expand the services we offer to the community, with a focus on outpatient care,” said Anthony Williamson, president of NGMC Braselton. “We’re excited to start work on the ASC that will bring an added level of convenience to the patient care we provide to Braselton and our surrounding communities. Two additional 30,000 square feet floors above the ASC will be home to physician offices, bringing more surgeons and specialists to our existing medical staff to care for our patients at NGMC Braselton.”

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NGMC LUMPKIN Since 2019, NGMC Lumpkin has been providing emergency and inpatient care for patients while working toward the development of a new hospital campus on Georgia 400. The new facility is expected to open in 2024 and will expand services to include outpatient surgery while also providing the high-quality emergency services, inpatient care and imaging services the community has grown to trust.

“The convenient location of the new NGMC Lumpkin campus will make it easy for patients to access,” said Sonja McLendon, chief of Operational Excellence and northern market leader. “It will also allow for an expansion of services so that patients can receive more kinds of care closer to home.”

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NGHS MEDICAL PLAZAS Comprehensive Care in Buford The wait for the new 90,000-square-foot Medical Plaza in Buford – complete with a wide array of healthcare practices and support services – is over. The new Medical Plaza opened May 2 when Northeast Georgia Physicians Group (NGPG) Family Medicine, NGPG Psychiatry and Georgia Heart Institute – along with complete lab services – moved from their original location on the property to the newly finished, three-story building just next door. The system also opened a new, full-service Imaging Center location to provide high-quality imaging services.

In July and August, others will move in – Sports Medicine, Orthopedic Surgery, Urology, OB/GYN, General Surgery, Neurology and Urgent Care – so patients in the Buford community can get all the comprehensive care they need in one convenient location.

APRIL

NGMC GAINESVILLE INPATIENT HOSPICE UNIT OPENS

SEPT

GEORGIA HEART INSTITUTE LAUNCHED

JUNE

BRASELTON CANCER CENTER OPENS

NOV

PLANS FOR NEW FREE-STANDING HOSPICE HOUSE ANNOUNCED

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20 22 MAY

MEDICAL PLAZA OPENS IN BUFORD

AUG

MEDICAL PLAZA OPENS IN JEFFERSON

Bringing Urgent Care to Jefferson Patients in Jackson County and surrounding communities will soon have a new choice for urgent care – and a one-stop destination for any additional primary or specialty care that might be needed – all in one new facility. NGHS’ Medical Plaza in Jefferson is expected to see more than 50,000 visits per year after it opens in July.

In addition to Urgent Care, patients will find NGPG’s family medicine, sports medicine, orthopedic surgery, and general surgery practices, a new Georgia Heart Institute location, a new Imaging Center location and an on-site lab. This full array of specialized care will allow families to receive care close to home without traveling elsewhere when testing is needed.

20 23 SUMMER

MEDICAL PLAZA OPENS IN BETHLEHEM

LATE

MEDICAL PLAZA 2 OPENS IN DAWSONVILLE

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Expanding Services in Bethlehem and Dawsonville Construction on two more new Medical Plazas, this time in Bethlehem and Dawsonville, will begin this summer.

The new building in Bethlehem will be located off Highway 316 and will include Urgent Care, Georgia Heart Institute and several NGPG specialty offices. Dawsonville will also see the addition of a new Medical Plaza, next to the existing Medical Plaza 400, to house additional specialty physician offices. Both new plazas are expected to open in 2023.

For more information and updates on enhancement and expansion projects, visit nghs.com/growing

NEW NGMC LUMPKIN OPENS

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NEW PATIENT TOWER ON NGMC GAINESVILLE CAMPUS OPENS

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EMPOWERING PHYSICIAN LEADERS OF TOMORROW Graduate Medical Education (GME) allows resident physicians and fellows to train under experienced and passionate faculty committed to team-based education that promotes personal and professional development.

The days are long, but the years are short – a sentiment that applies to many things, including residency, as Northeast Georgia Medical Center’s (NGMC) newest Internal Medicine residents will soon learn. Meanwhile, the inaugural class of 19 residents graduated from the NGMC Internal Medicine residency program in June.

“It’s been extremely rewarding to watch the personal and professional growth of our inaugural class,” said James Kruer, MD, program director of the Internal Medicine Residency program.

“They all came to NGMC with the desire to help shape a brandnew residency, to leave a legacy and to serve the community – and they accomplished that and more. I’m so proud of them and look forward to following their careers, which hopefully include a return to NGMC after they complete training.”

Martin Herrera, MD, is one of those Internal Medicine resident physicians who recently graduated.

“If this community hadn’t allowed me the privilege of caring for them, I would never have grown as much as I have,” Dr. Herrera said. “I will always be grateful to my patients.”

Since being invited to interview at NGMC in 2019, Dr. Herrera has been focused on growing personally and professionally – something that NGMC’s GME program has made an easy task.

“NGMC's quest for excellence, core values and the unbelievable mentorship throughout these past three years have built the foundation for my continued education in the field of pulmonary/critical care medicine,” Dr. Herrera said. “I am humbled to continue in my training while representing my beloved institution."

Dr. Herrera will conduct his fellowship training at Allegheny General Hospital-Pittsburgh in Pennsylvania.

Sameena Salcin, MD, a Georgia native, University of Georgia graduate and Internal Medicine resident physician graduate, will continue her fellowship training in her home state.

“I am thrilled to be continuing my medical training as a Pulmonary Critical Care fellow at the Medical College of Georgia in Augusta,” Dr. Salcin said. “It has been an honor and a privilege to care for so many patients here at NGMC over the past three years. I am sad to leave so many patients, colleagues and friends, but I am looking forward to continuing to serve my fellow Georgians in a new role.”

The mission of the GME program at NGMC is to train the physician leaders of tomorrow right here in Hall County, so they will stay to practice in this region and the state.

As one class graduates, another comes on board. After participating in the Match Day 2022, which just wrapped up in March, NGMC is getting ready to welcome a new class of resident physicians in five specialties.

“It’s amazing to finally have residents here after all the intense planning we’ve done.

They are ready to jump in with both feet.

Training in our fast-paced, high-volume emergency departments and learning from passionate, experienced educators will ensure these residents can work in any environment world-wide upon graduation.”

Josh Mugele, MD program director of the Emergency Medicine Residency Program “The timing is perfect to have more emergency medicine physicians available for our community,” said John E. Delzell, MD, vice president of Medical Education for Northeast Georgia Health System (NGHS) and designated institutional official for NGMC. “We’ve learned a lot from the COVID-19 pandemic. We know more about the healthcare disparities that are present in our community that we need to address. Our residents in the emergency department and other areas are amazing advocates and educators as well. They are fired up to help bridge the gap for our patients and our high-volume emergency departments are the perfect arena to do just that.”

The need for top-notch mental health professionals has become more apparent than ever in recent years – a need that also often presents itself in the emergency department. So NGMC welcomed its first class of six psychiatry residents, who will also begin their residency journey in July.

“What an amazing feeling to know that teaching and community service, two passions of mine, are finally coming to fruition with the arrival of these amazing residents.”

Kalpana Prasad, MD program director of the Psychiatry Residency Program

“We’ve seen a sharp rise in mental health needs during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, and it’s not over. While we may be getting the virus under control, there is no vaccine for mental well-being. We will feel the impact of our residents’ good work for generations as they immerse themselves in the communities they serve.”

IN TOTAL, THERE ARE 139 RESIDENT PHYSICIANS WORKING IN THE HEALTH SYSTEM AND THE COMMUNITY.

GENERAL SURGERY

INTERNAL MEDICINE

FAMILY EMERGENCY PSYCHIATRY MEDICINE MEDICINE

24 61 36 12

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FELLOWSHIPS

After a doctor completes their residency training, they can start fellowship training in their specialty of choice – like cardiology or pulmonology. Since they are learning, they are referred to as a fellow. The doctors who train them are experts and leaders in their field.

In September 2021, NGMC announced initial accreditation for its first two Internal Medicine Fellowships – cardiovascular disease and hospice and palliative medicine.

CARDIOVASCULAR DISEASE FELLOWSHIP To become a board-certified cardiologist, doctors must complete this cardiology fellowship, after residency. NGMC matched with its inaugural class of cardiovascular disease fellows in December 2021. They will begin work in NGHS hospitals and Georgia Heart Institute practices in July.

“The fellows will work side-by-side with physicians of distinction at Georgia Heart Institute and ask clinically impactful questions, which adds to the cutting-edge care for our patients,” said Ugochuckwu Egolum, MD, program director of the Cardiovascular Disease Fellowship program. “As a “The

“The fellows will work side-by-side with physicians of distinction at Georgia Heart Institute and ask clinically impactful questions, which adds to the cutting-edge care for our patients,” said Ugochuckwu Egolum, MD, program director of the Cardiovascular Disease Fellowship program. “As a recognized cardiac center of excellence, we will leverage our exceptional accomplishments in clinical care, research, innovation and education to train the future leaders of cardiovascular care for our region and beyond.”

HOSPICE AND PALLIATIVE MEDICINE FELLOWSHIP

The Hospice and Palliative Medicine Fellowship program addresses the rising awareness and demand for clinical palliative care resources and the need for more specialty-trained physicians to deliver this important care for both patients and families. The program anticipates interviewing candidates during the fall of 2022 and will train two fellows for one year.

Fellows will begin working with patients on July 1, 2023.

“The Hospice and Palliative Medicine Fellowship will equip physicians to alleviate suffering and empower patients with serious illness to explore their own goals of care,” said Meredith Pickett, DO, program director of the Hospice and Palliative Medicine Fellowship Program. “This is an extraordinary opportunity to sharpen our own skills, mentor physician learners and increase the impact of palliative medicine in our health system and our community.”

To learn more about GME at NGMC, visit ngmcgme.org To support educational opportunities for future health care leaders, visit nghs.com/give

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DONORS SET TO CHANGE HOSPICE OPTIONS ACROSS THE REGION Nearly 30 years ago, Diane and Chuck Stephens discovered the support and sanctuary that hospice care offers to both patients and their families. In fact, their experience was so profound that the couple committed a $5 million gift to support the construction of Northeast Georgia Health System’s (NGHS) first freestanding hospice house – the most significant donation the NGHS Foundation has ever received.

“We were very fortunate to be able to ensure my parents received the dedicated hospice care they required,” said Diane. “My mother received her care at home, and my father was later a resident of the hospice house in Amherst, New Hampshire for some time. Ever since then, Chuck and I have been supporters of the Amherst program, and we are thrilled to support the building of a house for Hospice of NGMC so families here will have access to care and support like we did years ago.”

“A Hospice House has been a dream of ours for quite some time,” said Carol Burrell, president & CEO of NGHS. “Gifts to Hospice through the Foundation already provide complementary services not covered by insurance, but we know there is more we can do with additional resources. That is why we are so excited to have this lead gift to help build a Hospice House that will provide sanctuary for patients and their families during some of life’s most sacred moments.”

“Chuck and Diane’s amazing gift ensures our region will be able to receive a new level of personalized end-of-life care," said Carol. "We are so thankful that their extraordinary generosity will help Hospice of NGMC reimagine how they can deliver care to patients, their families and our community.”

To break ground, the NGHS Foundation needs to raise an additional $5 million in gifts and commitments. Thanks to gifts from others, this goal will soon be realized.

“What an incredible legacy the Stephens and other donors are leaving this community,” said Chris Bray, president and chief development officer for the NGHS Foundation. “Many generations to come will benefit from this generosity, and we could not be more grateful.”

To learn more and help the Stephens build a Hospice House visit nghs.com/hospice-house Interested in learning more about how you can leave a legacy at NGHS through a planned gift?

Visit themedicalcenterfoundation.giftplans.org

As a volunteer and vice president of the NGHS Auxiliary, Diane also supports Hospice through the Auxiliary’s annual Love Light event. Last year, the Love Light fundraiser raised more than $165,000 for Hospice – funding that will provide the complementary services Hospice of NGMC is so wellknown for and help bring the vision of a Hospice House to life.

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Dear Friends and Donors, I’m pleased to serve as the Auxiliary president, honoring the legacies of my mother, Lee Highsmith, and my husband’s grandmother, Nell Wiegand – both of whom served as president and volunteered with Northeast Georgia Health System (NGHS) for decades. As we celebrate the 71st year of the NGHS Auxiliary, we have been reflecting on all the good works that they and everyone who has supported the Auxiliary has accomplished in that time, and we’re excited for the future.

Joining the Auxiliary has certainly been a blessing to me, allowing me to give back and serve in a variety of ways. I’d like to encourage you to consider becoming a member of the Auxiliary. Your membership allows us to make contributions to benefit a variety of projects – like providing a children’s book to each child born at Northeast Georgia Medical Center (NGMC), maintaining our hospital campus and online Window Shops, offering complimentary golf cart shuttles and much more.

In addition to your monetary gifts, your time and talents are equally as important and beneficial to the future success of the Volunteer Services program at NGHS. We are actively recruiting new volunteers of all ages to serve in a variety of hospital departments ranging from the Window Shops to our NICU – and even as Hospice volunteers out in our community. We hope you will consider serving alongside us in some capacity and encourage your friends and family members to do the same.

As many of you know, our annual Marketplace shopping event benefiting Safe Kids Northeast Georgia was canceled in 2020 and 2021. We’re grateful to Willis Investment Counsel for their continued partnership as the presenting sponsor despite those necessary changes and so excited to host Marketplace in person again this fall! We were fortunate to host our Love Light Remembrance celebrations virtually both years, and, while we’ve missed gathering in person, we’ve been thrilled to share stories of Hospice of NGMC patients with even more people than before. In fact, our community raised over $168,000 for Hospice of NGMC in 2021.

As always, we are deeply grateful for the support our community provides to the health system and the NGHS Auxiliary. Our healthcare heroes wouldn’t be able to provide the same level of care without your support.

Sincerely,

Katie Crumley President, Northeast Georgia Health System Auxiliary

SAVE THE DATE FOR MARKETPLACE 2022 NOVEMBER 10-12 presented in partnership by the Northeast Georgia Health System Auxiliary and Willis Investment Counsel benefitting Safe Kids Northeast Georgia.

To join the NGHS Auxiliary, visit nghs.com/auxiliary

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d

BENEFITTING SAFE KIDS NORTHEAST GEORGIA

presented in partnership by

NOVEMBER 10-12, 2022

PREVIEW PARTY & AUCTION NOVEMBER 10TH l 6:30 – 9:30 P.M.

RAMSEY CONFERENCE CENTER, LANIER TECHNICAL COLLEGE GAINESVILLE CAMPUS

FOR MORE INFORMATION: NGHS.COM/MARKETPLACE

e

VOLUNTEERING TO MAKE A DIFFERENCE

Community is Important For Bill and Kaye Trivette, volunteering and service are fundamental. In 2012, when they moved from Portland, Oregon to Gainesville, Georgia, a friend shared that she volunteered at Northeast Georgia Medical Center (NGMC).

“We almost immediately began volunteering at NGMC when we moved to Georgia and haven’t stopped since.

We volunteer weekly and enjoy making friends with fellow volunteers, employees and visitors,” said Bill.

“Having served in a variety of volunteer roles, I most enjoy being a shuttle driver because I get to meet so many interesting people,” said Bill. “They are so appreciative because sometimes, coming to the hospital can be scary, anxiety-filled and complicated. As a driver, my main purpose is to offer rides, but I can also offer so much more.

I help them navigate the campus and lend a listening ear if they need to talk. I find so much joy and fulfillment from what I do here.”

Bill and Kaye missed serving at the hospital during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic. Now, they couldn’t be more thrilled to be back with their friends.

“When I saw the full parking lot after visitation restrictions were softened, I couldn’t stop smiling,” said Bill. “I thought, ‘How great is it to be back to this?’ I have so much fun.”

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Kaye serves as a volunteer in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) as a “cuddler,” where she holds babies when their families aren’t actively visiting with them. She also serves in the Ronnie Green Heart Center as a liaison for families whose loved ones are having surgery. Her duties may include escorting them to other areas of the hospital, giving them updates on their loved one or simply offering a smile.

“I’m a friendly face and calming presence for people who are worried.

It’s so rewarding. If you’re thinking of volunteering, I encourage you to reach out to the Volunteer Services staff and find a way to get involved.”

Kaye Trivette, NGHS volunteer

Bill and Kaye plan to volunteer for as long as they can – hoping to spread a little bit of their light onto others. Just as they have made an impact on so many people, each of those people have also made an impact on them.

“Volunteering makes me a better person,” said Kaye. “I go home so encouraged.”

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

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NGMC COMMUNITY BENEFIT REPORT Improving the health of our community in all we do.

As a not-for-profit health system, profits generated are returned to the community through improved services and innovative programs; funding for charity care; education; research; workforce development; community outreach; and partnering with community groups and other healthcare providers.

A few highlights of community benefits provided by Northeast Georgia Medical Center between Oct. 1, 2020 and Sept. 30 2021: Visit nghs.com/community-benefit-resources to view NGMC’s full Community Benefit Report and executive summary.

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NGMC IS A COMMUNITY PARTNER FIGHTING COVID-19:

MORE THAN SUPPORTING PROVIDING 1,300 PEOPLE a community-wide HALL IN OVER 53K received free COVID-19 testing through collaborative first and second a partnership with Good News Clinics and District 2 Public Health.

NGMC

BY THE NUMBERS:

to implement a unified plan for Hall County-Gainesville area to prevent the spread of COVID-19.

24 OPERATING ROOMS

17-BED CARDIAC CARE UNIT (CCU)

LEVEL II TRAUMA CENTER

66-BED INTENSIVE CARE UNIT (ICU)

18-BED CARDIOVASCULAR INTENSIVE CARE UNIT

NGMC LEADS IN MENTAL AND BEHAVIORAL HEALTH INIVITATIVES: •

Partnering with United Way of Hall County’s One Hall Mental and Behavioral Health Committee and the Reach Out Campaign to destigmatize the need for mental health services.

•

Working toward a digital solution to coordinate resources for those dealing with mental and behavioral health issues so they are equipped to avoid crisis situations.

WOMEN & CHILDREN’S PAVILION

LEVEL III NEONATAL INTENSIVE CARE UNIT (NICU)

WOUND HEALING CENTER

•

Continuing the partnership with the Georgia Council on Substance Abuse to provide the ED-CARES (Certified Addiction Recovery Specialists) program which connects patients seen in emergency rooms for an opioid-related overdose with trained peer recovery coaches who help them avoid another overdose and encourage treatment.

•

Offering the only Neonatal Intensive Care Unit CARES program in the nation to help families of babies born with Neonatal Abstinence Syndrome find a path to recovery.

vaccine doses.

DISCRIMINATION IS DISCRIMINATION IS AGAINST 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.

ATENCIÓN: si habla español, tiene a su disposición servicios gratuitos de asistencia lingüística. Llame al 770-219-1689 (TTY: 1-800-255-0135) (VRS: 1-888-888-1116).

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).� �

ુ ના: જો તમે ગજ ુ રાતી બોલતા હો, તો નન:શલ્ુ ક ભાષા સહાય સેવાઓ તમારા માટે ઉપલબ્ધ છે . ફોન સચ કરો 770-219-1689 (TTY: 1-800-255-0135) (VRS: 1-888-888-1116).

ATTENTION : Si vous parlez français, des services d'aide linguistique vous sont proposés gratuitement.

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 ।

ATANSYON: Si w pale Kreyòl Ayisyen, gen sèvis èd pou lang ki disponib gratis pou ou. Rele 770-2191689 (TTY: 1-800-255-0135) (VRS: 1-888-888-1116). ВНИМАНИЕ: Если вы говорите на русском языке, то вам доступны бесплатные услуги перевода. Звоните 770-219-1689 (телетайп: 1-800-255-0135) (VRS: 1-888-888-1116). ‫ )رقم‬1689-219-770 ‫ اتصل برقم‬.‫ فإن خدمات المساعدة اللغویة تتوافر لك بالمجان‬،‫ إذا كنت تتحدث اذكر اللغة‬:‫ملحوظة‬ .(0135-255-800-1) :‫( والبكم الصم ھ‬VRS: 1116-888-888-1).

-

ATENÇÃO: Se fala português, encontram-se disponíveis serviços linguísticos, grátis. Ligue para हैं। 770-219-1689 (TTY: 1-800-255-0135) (VRS: 1-888-888-1116). ‫بگیرید تماس‬. ‫ تسھیالت زبانی بصورت رایگان برای شما‬،‫ اگر بھ زبان فارسی گفتگو می کنید‬:‫ توجھ‬। 770-219-1689 (TTY: 1-800-2550135) (VRS: 1-888-888-1116). ‫ باشد می ف‬.‫با‬ ACHTUNG: Wenn Sie Deutsch sprechen, stehen Ihnen kostenlos sprachliche Hilfsdienstleistungen zur Verfügung. Rufnummer: । 770-219-1689 (TTY: 1-800-255-0135) (VRS: 1-888-888-1116). 注意事項：日本語を話される場合、無料の言語支援をご利用いただけます。770-219-1689 (TTY:1-800-255-0135) (VRS: 1-888-888-1116）まで、お電話にてご連絡ください。

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