IGH - ROCH 160 - December 18

PRICELESS

Meet Your Doctor Francis Finneran, a new OB-GYN at Thompson Hospital, discusses why he moved from New Orleans to Canandaigua and what inspired him to become a doctor

GVHEALTHNEWS.COM

DECEMBER 2018 • ISSUE 160

HOLIDAYS If the winter holidays are the most joyous time of the year, why do so many people get depressed?

INSIDE • This is a great time to put your family’s health history together • Six ways to go heartburn-free this season • How to pick healthful food gifts for college students, parents, seniors

Starts on page14

Tonsillectomies It turns out most Tonsillectomies are not needed

Study: Dogs Prolong Life

Dog ownership can decrease a single adult’s risk of death by 33 percent page 18

NY Ranks High in New Cases

Fifty to 100 new cases per year are identified in the Rochester region alone

Mussels These scrumptious mollusks possess the most impressive nutritional profile of all shellfish, especially when it comes to vitamin B-12, selenium and manganese page 13

­

Twins Marry Twins Identical twins marry identical twins. How genetically similar would their children be?

page 9

for the whole you

Medicare health coverage Enroll by December 7 Medicare health coverage overMedicare a total approach to your healthyou and wellness health coverage for the whole

forthe thewhole whole you for you Enroll by December 7 December DiscoverEnroll aEnroll total approach to77your health and wellness Medicare health coverage byby December reat health coverage Call to learn more.

Discover a totalapproach approachtotoyour yourhealth healthand and wellness wellness Discover a total for you M aritthe sa Sawhole ntana-Ru iz•• the whole you Call to learn more.

Starting at

0 000

1-585-802-0541 (TTY: 711)

Enroll Calltotolearn learn more. by December 7 Starting Call more.

Starting at at Enroll by December 7 Discover a total M annrapproach iaatnsaa-RSuainzto tayour na-Rhealth uiz•• and wellness M a r i t s a S a t •• M a r i t s a S a t •• l approach to your health and wellness 8:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. ET, Mon. - Fri.

$$$

premiums

Y:sw 71e1r) your call.

8-8d 001-5 22s--0a058l5e 4541s1-8(a (T0TgT2TeYY-0::n577t114w 111))i(llTaTn A li1-5 c81-5 e:0n8085sa5.-e m. - 6:00 p.m. ET, Mon. - Fri. 6:o0n0. -pF.rmi. . ET, Mon. - Fri. 8:00 a.m. - 68::0000pa.m.m . E.T-, M

0

Call to learn more. at ••Call to learn Starting A lAicleicnesnesdedsA aslaeliescseaagngesenentdtwwsiilallllaaennsssw e r y o u r c a l l . more. awgeer nyotuwr iclal lal.nswer your cComplete all.

monthly plan premiums

monthly plan premiums ••

$

monthly Maplan ritspremiums a Sa••ntan••a-Ruiz••

1-585-802-0541 (TTY: 711)

••

8:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. ET, Mon. - Fri. A licensed sales agmonthly ent will an swerpremiums your call. plan

Dental Care

Maritsa Santana-Ruiz•• 1-585-802-054FOR 1 (TTYCHILDREN : 711)

8:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. ET, Mon. - Fri. Avenue A licensed sales agent w300 ill ansWest wer you r call.

AND ADULTS

| Brockport, NY 14420 (585) 637-3905

••

is a PDP, HMO, PPO plan with a Medicare contract. Enrollment in our plans depends on contract renewal. See erage a complete description benefits, exclusions, limitations of coverage.

Plan features icare isfor a PDP, HMO, PPO plan withofaplan Medicare contract.

Enrollment in ourand plansconditions depends on contract renewal.

See Aetna Medicare is a PDP, HMO, PPO plan with a Medicare may vary by service area. f Coverage for a complete description of plan benefits, exclusions, limitations and conditions of coverage. Plan features

dicare is a PDP, HMO, PPO plan withcontract. a Medicare contract.

Enrollmentin in our depends on contracton renewal.

See O plan with aEnrollment Medicare Enrollment ourplans plans contract renewal. See contract. in our plans depends on contract renewal.

72.12.7depends 19.1 (8/18)-4195 ility may vary by service area. of INALCoverage _4377 Acceptedfor 08/20a 18complete description of plan benefits, exclusions, limitations and conditions of coverage. Plan features See Evidence of Coverage for a complete description of plan and72.conditions oakorchardhealth.org ebility description of plan benefits, limitations coverage.

Plan features 12.719.in 1 (8/1our 8)-4195plans of is a PDP, HMO, PPOexclusions, plan with a Medicare contract. Enrollment depends on contract renewal.

See mayAetna vary byMedicare service area.

08_M_FINAL_437benefits, 7 Accepted 08/201exclusions, 8 limitations and conditions of coverage.

Oak Orchard OakOrchardHealthCenter Medicare contract.

Enrollment in our plans depends on contract renewal.

See Evidence of Coverage for a complete description of plan benefits, exclusions, limitations and conditions of coverage. Plan features rea. Plan 72.12.719.1 (8/18)-4195 nc. features and availability may vary by service area.

of plan benefits, exclusions, and conditions of coverage. Plan features and availability maylimitations vary by service area.

3008_M_FINAL_4377 Accepted 08/2018 ©2018 Aetna Inc. Y0001_4002_13008_M_FINAL_4377 Accepted 08/2018

72.12.719.1 (8/18)-4195

72.1722..1721.79 (8/1/81)-481)9-54195 19..1 1 (8 OOH is a Health Center Program grantee, and a deemed Public Health Service employee.

WE SPEND AN AVERAGE OF 13 HOURS A DAY SITTING STAND UP! More than half of your

day is likely spent sitting. Too much sitting is linked to heart disease and other serious issues. Sit all day at work? Set a reminder to stand every hour. Stand when on a conference call or eating lunch. Or, try a walking meeting with a co-worker.

Page 2

•

IN GOOD HEALTH – Rochester / Genesee Valley Healthcare Newspaper • December 2018

Home is where

the help is.

Living Well Companion Care provides non-medical services to make living in your own home feel manageable again. We can support you with daily routines, transportation, housekeeping, basic home repairs and home safety modifications. Companions undergo comprehensive background screenings.

We only hire Companions we would trust to care for our own loved ones.

“Knowing there is someone who can take care of us, makes me feel better about our future!”

–Len, client with Companion Maureen

We’re Hiring Companions!

We offer flexible schedules and meaningful work.

Call us at (585) 248-5021 or visit livingwellcompanioncare.org to learn how we can help you live well at home or become a Companion.

A service of Jewish Senior Life COMPANION CARE • HANDYMAN SERVICES • HOUSEKEEPING • RESPITE & 24 HOUR CARE December 2018 •

IN GOOD HEALTH – Rochester / Genesee Valley Healthcare Newspaper

•

Page 3

What’s come between you?

Lack of trust? Loveless, sexless relationship?

Excessive use of porn or social media?

Call Kavod Psychotherapy at 585.546.5180.

Kavod Recovery.com | 585.546.5180

CALENDAR of

HEALTH EVENTS

Dec. 4

Christmas movies among topics at HLAA meeting

Hearing Loss Association of America Rochester Chapter invites anyone interested in hearing loss to any or all of several events on Tuesday, Dec. 4. All programs are held at St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, East Avenue at Westminster Road, Rochester, across from the George Eastman Museum.

• 10 a.m. “Hearing Other People’s Experiences” (HOPE) at church vestry room. Prospective, new or practiced hearing aid users can share their experiences, questions, and hearing loss journeys in an informal round table discussion facilitated by retired audiologist and hearing aid user Joseph Kozelsky.

• 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Parish hall.

Program begins at noon. “The Holidays at the Movies: What Makes a Good Christmas Movie and What Are the Great Ones?” Jack Garner, Democrat & Chronicle” film critic, will show assorted selections of Christmas movies ranging from “A

Christmas Carol” to “It’s a Wonderful Life” while conversing with the audience.

Garner began reviewing films for the D&C in 1977. He was appointed chief film critic for Gannett in 1987.

He’s taught at MCC and RIT and is one of only four people to receive the George Eastman Museum’s prestigious George Eastman Medal of Honor. His memoir and anthology, “From my seat on the aisle,” was published by RIT Press.

• 7 to 9 p.m. Parish Hall. Program begins at 8 p.m. “ROC Renovations: Creating a Better ROC Experience” with Andrew Moore, interim director of aviation, Greater Rochester International Airport and Jennifer Hanrahan, assistant director.

Moore will highlights the many improvements taking place at ROC as part of the Upstate Airport Economic Development and Revitalization Initiative.

All HLAA programs are free.

Anyone interested in hearing loss is welcome. For more information, view the organization’s website at hearinglossrochester.org or call 585 266 7890.

DePaul seeks support for the holidays

Planning for LONG TERM CARE

DePaul, a nonprofit human service agency based in Gates, is seeking the community’s support for its annual holiday helpers program.

Individuals, businesses, schools and service and faith-based organizations can “adopt” clients from DePaul’s mental health residential programs who may not have family support during this meaningful time of year.

Participants can select from items on a wish list or choose to donate generic gifts such as hats, gloves, personal care items or socks for adults. Past client wishes have included items as simple as a piece of chocolate cake, boots or clothing

items.

For nearly 20 years, the community has made the season special for those less fortunate by taking part in DePaul’s holiday helpers program.

DePaul serves some 5,000 people annually in programs that encompass mental health residential and support services, senior living residential services, addiction prevention and support programs, vocational programs and housing.

For more information about the Holiday Helpers Program, please contact Amy Cavalier at 585-4268000, ext. 3102 or via email at acavalier@depaul.org.

Don’t miss the new

can be a HAIR-RAISING experience!

LET GO OF THE STRESS with an Individualized Strategy for Asset Planning and Protection!

Call Parker Law Office today to at 585-281-0717 to learn more!

Two Offices to Serve You: Brighton Office and Mailing Address

2024 W. Henrietta Road #2A Rochester, NY 14623

Attorney Advertising Page 4

•

Greece Office 722 Weiland Road Rochester, NY 14626

2019 Rochester Healthcare Guide

For editorial and advertising information, please call 585-421-8109 or email editor@GVhealthnews.com

Serving Monroe and Ontario Counties in good A monthly newspaper published

Health Rochester–GV Healthcare Newspaper

by Local News, Inc. Distribution: 33,500 copies throughout more than 1,500 high-traffic locations.

In Good Health is published 12 times a year by Local News, Inc. © 2018 by Local News, Inc. All rights reserved.

154 Cobblestone Court Dr., Suite 121 – P.O. Box 525, Victor NY 14564.

• Phone: 585-421-8109 • Email: Editor@GVhealthnews.com

Editor & Publisher: Wagner Dotto • Associate Editor: Lou Sorendo Writers: Jim Miller, Deborah J. Sergeant, Gwenn Voelckers, Anne Palumbo, Chris Motola, George W. Chapman, Ernst Lamothe Jr., Christine Green • Advertising: Anne Westcott, Linda Covington • Layout & Design: Dylon Clew-Thomas • Office Assistant: Kimberley Tyler No material may be reproduced in whole or in part from this publication without the express written permission of the publisher. The information in this publication is intended to complement—not to take the place of—the recommendations of your health provider. Consult your physician before making major changes in your lifestyle or health care regimen.

IN GOOD HEALTH – Rochester / Genesee Valley Healthcare Newspaper • December 2018

At Trillium Health, we not only share your neighborhood, we share the viewpoint that it’s an advantage when one place has everything to offer. That’s true of Monroe Ave. and it’s true of your community health center.

Trillium brings the highest quality individualized and specialty care to a location conveniently close to you. You can grab your coffee and pick up your prescription all within a few blocks. And you can get to know your healthcare team as well as you know the neighborhood.

trilliumhealth.org | 585.545.7200

care. for you.

we treat all our neighbors the same. like individuals.

December 2018 •

IN GOOD HEALTH – Rochester / Genesee Valley Healthcare Newspaper

•

Page 5

Meet

Your Doctor

By Chris Motola

Francis V. Finneran, M.D. Turns Out That Most Tonsillectomies Not Needed

T

onsillectomies were once very common. According to Medscape, 1.4 million tonsillectomies were performed in the United States in 1959. However, by 1987 — less than 30 years later — that number had dropped to 260,000, and it is even smaller today. Now, a new study revealed that doctors may still be performing too many tonsillectomies.

According to a study conducted by the University of Birmingham and published in the British Journal of General Practice, seven out of eight tonsillectomies are unnecessary.

Researchers analyzed the medical records of more than 1.6 million children from the United Kingdom. What they found was that of the 18,271 children who had their tonsils removed, only 2,144 (or 11.7 percent) actually needed the surgery.

What’s more, they found many children who actually need tonsillectomies are not receiving them: 15,764 children had records showing sufficient sore throats to undergo surgery but only 2,144 (13.6 percent) actually received them.

Physician Tom Marshall, professor of public health and primary care at the University of Birmingham, explained in a statement, “Research shows that children with frequent sore throats usually suffer fewer sore throats over the next year or two.” For kids with enough documented sore throats, the improvement is slightly quicker after having a tonsillectomy, which means surgery makes sense in those situations, he added. But the research suggests children with fewer sore throats don’t benefit from the procedure enough to justify surgery because those sore throats tend to go away anyway.

Of course, one may wonder what the harm is in performing an unnecessary operation, especially on a body part we can certainly live without. However, according to the Mayo Clinic, tonsillectomies come with numerous risks, including uncontrolled bleeding, reactions to anesthetics or infections.

“Children may be more harmed than helped by a tonsillectomy,” Marshall said in the statement.

As such, researchers are hoping doctors and parents weigh the pros and cons of the procedure more closely.

Page 6

•

New OB-GYN at Thompson Hospital discusses why he moved from New Orleans to Canandaigua and what inspired him to become a doctor Q: What does your patient profile look like?

A: I’m an OB-GYN. I see female patients all through their life, starting in adolescence with safe sex education, through delivering babies, and up through the menopausal transition. That also includes problem visits for things like having difficult periods, contraception, urinary incontinence, pelvic pain and pelvic organ prolapse.

Q: What percentage of your practice is obstetrics versus gynecology?

A: Probably about 50-50.

Q: How did you become interested in OB-GYN? A: My grandfather was actually an obstetrician who worked in the town I grew up in. He delivered for the majority of friends’ parents. So I grew up hearing about the impact that he had on a relatively small community. It was pretty impressive.

Q: Is that what made you want to practice in a small community like Canandaigua?

A: Yes. At the time I interviewed, I was living in New Orleans and it was August [2017]. It was about 100 degrees and 100 percent humidity. I came to Canandaigua, had the interview and sat by the lake. It was 85 degrees with low humidity and a clear sunny day and thought, “Wow, this is a cool little town.”

Q: You may be the first person I’ve met who moved to Upstate New York for the weather.

A: I didn’t realize the winter was what it was, but the summers are worth it. Plus my wife is from Oswego, so she’s definitely used to snow.

Q: Obstetrics has a reputation for being a high-risk specialty. How do you work with and around those risks?

A: Part of it is that we have a call-group,

so there’s always someone around to answer questions and provide support. Two heads are better than one when you’re working through a problem situation. Anytime you think you’re coming into something with inherent risks, you can have a discussion with the patient ahead of time about risks and benefits. In terms of building a practice, pregnancy is a physiological state with an increased risk in maternal health.

People are still having families because, to them, it’s a wonderful, happy event and the reward outweighs the risk.

Q: From the physician’s perspective, it seems kind of unique in that delivering babies represents a positive situation compared to treating a disease or injury.

A: It’s true, the majority of my patients are pretty happy.

IN GOOD HEALTH – Rochester / Genesee Valley Healthcare Newspaper • December 2018

Q: Do you find it affects the type of relationship you have with patients?

A: There’s definitely a unique relationship when you deliver someone’s child and are with them through a period of labor, especially if it’s more complicated than expected. It definitely creates a pretty deep doctor-patient relationship.

Q: What should prospective parents know before they get pregnant?

A: It’s not like what you see in the movies. The labor process is simplified and romanticized in movies.

It tends to be a little more complex. It takes far longer, too. But I think when someone decides they’re going to have a child, they’re willing to deal with the discomforts of pregnancy, the pains of labor and the stresses of having a newborn.

Q: Do most of your patients start seeing you when they’re young, or do older patients transfer over to you?

A: It’s a little of both. I do have a lot of patients [for whom] I was their first visit to the gynecologist. I do have some women who either had an interruption in gynecologic care and are coming back or patients who are transferring because they want to be a part of our health system or are looking for a new provider.

Q: Because gynecology has primary care aspects, do you find yourself taking a broader view of your patients’ health?

A: Yes, especially during routine gynecologic exams. I’ll want to take a full account of patient health status and how it changes from year to year.

Q: The HPV vaccine was recently approved for an older age group. Does that fall within your practice?

A: It does. We’re trying to get it to everyone who isn’t vaccinated and is of the appropriate age. It’s a big goal right now. The HPV vaccine is going to ideally decrease the rate of cervical cancer significantly.

Q: Since older patients are more likely to have already been exposed, what benefit does the vaccine offer?

A: It offers protection from any strains the patient hadn’t yet been exposed to.

Q: What should women know about going to the gynecologist?

A: I think a lot of time women face their appointments with a gynecologist with apprehension or even dread. The exam is uncomfortable, but the majority of the care and concerns that can be discussed during the appointment are worthwhile.

These are things we can address before the next annual visit.

Lifelines Name: Francis V. Finneran, M.D. Position: OB-GYN at F.F. Thompson Hospital Hometown: Richmond Hill, NY Education: Tulane University School of Medicine (2017) Awards: Exceptional bedside manner in a graduating student pursuing OB-GYN at Albany Medical College; academic honor roll at City College of New York Affiliations: Canandaigua Medical Group, part of FF Thompson Hospital Organizations: American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology Family: Married, one child, one dog Hobbies: Boating, skiing, classic movies

Serving Men, Women and Children

“Imagine where you could be with the help of CBD”

Rochester’s first CBD only store, with the largest selection of CBD in one place.

We provide a safe, welcoming environment, with a staff that has the knowledge to help you find the best product for your needs.

Oil ■ Gummies ■ Capsules ■ Creams Drinks ■ Pet Products Second Location Coming Winter of 2018/2019 Come visit us ■ 2300 West Ridge Road, Greece 585-623-8776 ■ cbdepotboutique.com Open: Mon - Fri 10-7 ■ Sat 11-7

Schedule your

complimentary, confidential hair loss evaluation today and see how easy it is to be yourself again!

Call now!

(585) 272-7320

NEW-U

Rochester’s Hair Replacement Specialists

We specialize in both permanent and non-permanent techniques, gradual hair replacement, and system integration. We can provide topical hair loss treatments and laser hair rejuvenation.

Check out Virtual Reality Hair Replacement for Men at Baldness.com.

Affordable Financing. Onsite service and repairs.

1425 Jefferson Rd., Saginaw Plaza, 2nd floor Rochester, NY 14623 • 272-7320

Restoring hair Restoring confidence

Healthcare in a Minute

By George W. Chapman

‘Experimental’ Treatment: Jury Awards $25.5 M to Family

I

nsurance companies typically will not pay for procedures/treatment that they consider to be “experimental” or “investigational,” even in cases where the patient’s life is at stake. Recently, a jury awarded $25.5 million to the husband of a woman who died after being denied proton beam therapy to treat her brain tumor. The jury wanted to send a message to her insurer, Aetna, in what was called a “bad faith” case. Aetna’s “experts” argued the treatment was experimental while the plaintiff’s experts argued proton beam therapy is a well- established form of treatment and is paid for by Medicare. The couple mortgaged their home and raised over $90,000 through “Go Fund Me” to pay for treatment at a renowned cancer treatment center while suing Aetna, but it was too late and the patient died. The question is how does

an individual insurance company eventually move treatments off their “experimental” list and on to their “approved” list? Proton beam therapy has been around for years. There is virtually no national oversight or agreement on what is considered to be experimental. It is left up to the insurer. A solution would be a panel of experts comprised of clinicians, payers and researchers empowered to determine what treatments are globally considered to be “experimental” and then which of them are either ineffective or approved for payment. There could be a federal fund established to pay for experimental procedures. How else will we know if the treatments are effective if people can’t afford to go through with them? Aetna could have treated almost 300 patients for the $25.5 million they shelled out for “bad faith.”

Insurance Administrative Costs Our average administrative costs for health insurance are the highest in the world. The Affordable Care Act limits what commercial insurers can retain for profit and administrative costs to 15 percent of their premium. That means they must spend 85 percent of the premium on actual claims. If they spend less than 85 percent on claims they must refund the difference to their members. Medicare, purportedly, has the lowest administrative costs of all insurers at just over 1 percent. So, is “Medicare for all” a way to lower premiums for all? Skeptics argue the 1 percent is artificially low because: the IRS col-

lects the taxes, Social Security collects the premiums, the FBI handles the fraud and then another seven federal departments also do work for Medicare. But Medicare’s annual report accounts for these costs. However, one third of Medicare eligible people are insured by private/commercial Medicare Advantage plans versus directly though Medicare. Including the administrative costs of these Medicare Advantage plans results in a combined 7 percent administrative costs which is much higher than Medicare’s 1 percent. Private plans average about 13 percent administrative costs, which includes profits.

Drug Ads on TV No one really knows what drugs December 2018 •

actually cost: manufacturers raise their prices to exorbitant levels to account for “discounts” given to pharmacy benefit managers; your out-of-pocket cost depends on your insurance plan; the same drug is cheaper in other countries. The Trump administration — CMS and DHHS — has vowed to control drug pricing or at least make it more transparent. Trump is proposing to require drug companies that sell drugs covered by Medicare and Medicaid to include their list price for covering a typical course of treatment in their ubiquitous TV ads. DHHS Secretary Alex Azar said, “We will not wait for an industry with so many conflicting and perverse incentives to fix itself.”

CMS Administrator Seema Verma said, “We are committed to price transparency across the board and prescription drugs are no different.”

The drug industry spends over $4 billion annually on TV ads. Of course the powerful drug lobby is pushing back and will challenge the policy in court arguing it violates their free speech. The drug lobby counters with providing language in their TV ads directing patients to online resources to determine what their cost would be. The AMA says this is a step in the right direction, but not a solution.

Affordable Care Act There have been 70 attempts to repeal the astonishingly resilient ACA (Affordable Care Act) over the last 10 years. The last attempt to repeal was thwarted by the late Sen. John McCain’s “no” vote. Failing to repeal the law, the Trump administration started gutting the ACA by: reducing advertising 90 percent and navigator funding 40 percent; allowing states to reduce coverage for pre-existing conditions; terminating the individual mandate; changing basic coverage requirements; and basically just making it difficult

for insurers to hang in the market places. A promised “much better plan” was never offered — 20 million people depend on the ACA for their insurance. Ironically, concerns over the most popular and basic tenet of the ACA — pre-existing conditions — probably cost Republicans the House. Democrats made it an issue and Republicans running for office claimed they were always in favor of it. Now, with the House under Democratic control, it will be interesting to see if the ACA is resurrected (and improved) rather than slowly bludgeoned to death.

NRA v. AMA In addition to asking if you: exercise, smoke, drink excessively, use a seat belt, etc. to determine your health risks, your physician may also ask you if there are guns in the house. After the recent mass shootings, the AMA came out with a position paper calling gun violence a pubic health crisis. The NRA pushed back and told the AMA and several tweeting emergency room physicians to “stay in their lane.” The AMA is focusing on legislation that virtually prevents the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention from doing research on gun violence. As Many as35,000 of us die from gun violence each year and of that 21,000 are suicides.

George W. Chapman is a healthcare busi ness consultant who works exclusively with physicians, hospitals and healthcare organizations. He operates GW Chapman Consulting based in Syracuse. Email him at gwc@gwchapmanconsulting.com.

IN GOOD HEALTH – Rochester / Genesee Valley Healthcare Newspaper

•

Page 7

Meet Your Provider

Grasta’s Beauty and Wig Studio Q: When and why did you open Grasta’s Beauty and Wig Studio?

A: From 1942 to 1984 my mother Lucille K. Russo owned the LuRue’s Beauty Shop on Lyell Avenue in Rochester. I strived to open my own business in another neighborhood at 104 Flower City Park in 1973. I worked very hard and I walked many blocks and handed papers at everyone’s door telling them about my new business, Grasta’s Beauty & Wig Studio. I followed up with many phone calls and invites until I was able to generate a new clientele. There is much pride between my mother and I in our accomplishments in the field of cosmetology. I was mentored by her and the daughter of a wig supplier. After 13 years I left the city and opened in 1985 at 409 Parma Center Road. When a client walks out of Grasta’s Beauty and Wig Studio they will be proud to be wearing a Grasta wig, and no one will ever notice they are wearing a wig!

Q: Do you serve a specific clientele?

A: We serve any and all clientele.

Whether you’re experiencing hair

loss for any reason or you’re a cancer patient — everyone deserves the respect and confidential treatment that only a private appointment can accomplish. The wig shop is open by individual appointment only to ensure a personalized experience every time.

I welcome stylists and patients to call with hair loss questions or to inquire about my many products, supplies, and wigs.

Q: What are your specialties?

A: We have the largest collection

of wigs in Western New York and have been in business for over 50 years.

From human hair to synthetics and blends, and don’t forget accessories.

We specialize in wig and hairpieces.

There’s a wide variety of custom wigs including my own line, European wigs, and Remy wigs to choose from.

Everything is done on a one-on-one basis. No walk-ins allowed. This enables me to give my clients the best caring, individual attention, making them feel beautiful inside and out.

Q: Would health insurance cover any of the costs associated with the wigs or hairpieces?

A: Yes, we do accept insurance.

Clients are proud to wear a Grasta wig The client may need to contact their insurance company to see if and how much would be covered, and if prior approval is required. Each insurance company has their own clauses.

Q: How much do the wigs cost?

A: Prices vary depending on the

style and the item.

Q: How long does it take for a custom wig to be made?

A: Usually it takes approximately eight to10 weeks. However, we can do a rush order, if needed, and have the wig as soon as six weeks with additional charge.

409 Parma Center Rd, Hilton • 585-392-7823 • www.GrastaBeautyAndWigStudio.com

Monday thru Saturday by appointment only. No walk-ins!

U.S. Opioid Overdose Deaths Reach New Record

T

he number of opioid overdose deaths in the United States reached a new record last year with 72,000 deaths, which works out to about 200 a day, according to the Drug Enforcement Administration.

The announcement comes just over a week after U.S. health secretary Alex Azar said overdose deaths have started to level off.

Heroin, fentanyl and other opioids are the main threats, but use of methamphetamine and cocaine has become much greater in areas where these drugs haven’t historically been common, according to the DEA’s National Drug Threat Assessment, the Associated Press reported.

Heroin overdose deaths rose nationwide between 2015 and 2016, with increases of nearly 25 percent in the Northeast and more than 22 percent in the South.

A major concern for the DEA is fentanyl and other related opioids, which are often cheaper and much stronger than heroin, the AP reported. China is a main source of fentanyl and other synthetic opioids in the U.S., according to the DEA. The DEA report also noted concerns about people exploiting marijuana legalization to traffic the drug into the illicit market or to states that don’t allow medicinal recreational use of marijuana, the AP reported.

Page 8

•

FDA Approves Powerful New Opioid Despite Criticisms

R

uling against the recommendation of one of its chief experts, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration recently approved an extremely potent new opioid painkiller, Dsuvia.

The drug is a 30-microgram pill that packs the same punch as 5 milligrams of intravenous morphine, according to the Washington Post. The tiny pill comes packaged in a syringe-like applicator and would be used under the tongue for quick absorption. Dsuvia (sufentanil) will be marketed by California-based maker AcelRX. The drug is for very restricted use in operating rooms or on the battlefield. Indeed, its potential use by soldiers was one reason Dsuvia was approved, according to FDA Commissioner Scott Gottlieb.

“The FDA has made it a high priority to make sure our soldiers have access to treatments that meet the unique needs of the battlefield, including when intravenous administration is not possible for the treatment of acute pain,” Gottlieb said in an agency news release.

But Dsuvia’s approval comes amid controversy, with an epidemic

of opioid abuse continuing to ravage the United States. Experts worry that supplies of the drug will somehow make their way from doctors’ offices and pharmacies to addicts.

An FDA advisory committee did recommend for approval of Dsuvia in a 10-3 vote last month. But the committee’s chairman took the highly unusual move of voicing his opposition at that time. Physician Raeford Brown, a professor of anesthesiology and pediatrics at the University of Kentucky, urged the FDA to reject the drug.

IN GOOD HEALTH – Rochester / Genesee Valley Healthcare Newspaper • December 2018

“I am very disappointed with the decision of the agency to approve Dsuvia.

This action is inconsistent with the charter of the agency,” Brown said in a statement. “I will continue to hold the agency accountable for their response to the worst public health problem since 1918.”

Public Citizen described the drug as “five to 10 times more potent than fentanyl and 1,000 times more potent than morphine.”

But Gottlieb stressed that his agency has placed very tight restrictions on Dsuvia.

“To address concerns about the potential risks associated with Dsuvia, this product will have strong limitations on its use,” Gottlieb said.

“It can’t be dispensed to patients for home use and should not be used for more than 72 hours. And it should only be administered by a health care provider using a single-dose applicator. That means it won’t be available at retail pharmacies for patients to take home.”

The drug is also only for use by patients who cannot tolerate other painkillers, or for whom other painkillers have failed or are expected to fail.

You live with atopic dermatitis… But Do You Know What It Is? IT’S TIME TO LEARN MORE ABOUT YOUR MODERATE-TO-SEVERE ATOPIC DERMATITIS AND A POTENTIAL TREATMENT OPTION

Attend a FREE educational event!

When: Wednesday, December 5, 2018 Registration: 6:00 PM

Where: Hyatt Regency Rochester 125 E. Main Street Rochester, NY 14604

Featuring: Mary Anne Elder, NP Derm & an actual patient living with atopic dermatitis

Call 1-844-387-4936, option 5 to register!

Complimentary parking and light fare provided. Family, caregivers, and those interested in learning about moderate-to-severe atopic dermatitis are welcome.

© 2018 Sanofi and Regeneron Pharmaceuticals, Inc. All Rights Reserved.

US-DAD-14762 Last Update: 08/2018

Identical twins Brittany and Briana Deane recently married identical twins Josh and Jeremy Salyers. Credit: TLC

Identical Twins Marry Identical Twins How genetically similar would their children be?

A

couple of identical couples recently doubled up for life.

Identical twins Brittany and Briana Deane first met identical twins Josh and Jeremy Salyers last August at The Twins Day Festival in Ohio, according to ABC News. A year later, the couples had their weddings, together, wearing the same wedding outfits, at this year’s Twin Day Festival. Their weddings were documented for a TLC special called “Twins Marry Twins,” scheduled to air in 2019.

The double Deane-Salyers weddings raise a question: If one set of identical twins marries another set of identical twins, how genetically similar would their children be?

“In theory, we would expect their children to be genetically as similar as full siblings are to each other,” said Laura Almasy, a professor of genetics at the University of Pennsylvania.

Siblings born to the same set of parents share about half their genes with one another.

For every child that’s born, “it’s like drawing a handful of marbles from a jar — you get half of your DNA from mom and half from dad,” Almasy said. Cousins don’t draw from the same jar. But in this case,

the children of the two sets of parents would be drawing from two separate, but identical jars.

“So, the expectation would be that they would share half their DNA like full siblings would,” Almasy said. But just like typical siblings, “any particular pair of individuals could share more or less” of those genes.

What’s more, the identical twin parents may not have completely identical DNA; instead, there may be slight differences in their genes that could have occurred in the womb or because of environmental factors throughout their lives. These slight differences can also influence how similar the babies would be to one another.

“Environment doesn’t affect which genes [babies] get from their parents,” Almasy said. But the environment in which the parents grew up could change how an inherited gene is expressed in other words, how it turned off and on, she added.

For example, if one mother smoked throughout her life and the other didn’t, both babies could receive the same gene, but the gene could express and influence the baby very differently.

Laser Gum Treatment in Rochester, NY What is laser gum treatment or LANAP?

Laser Treatment is an advanced technique for your doctor to treat periodontal (gum) disease and save many teeth that were previously considered hopeless. A laser light is used to gently remove harmful bacteria and diseased tissue from the gum pocket.

Dramatic Patient Benefits!

• No cutting of the gum tissue with a scalpel and no stitches means easy recovery with minimal bleeding.

• Preserve gum tissue instead of cutting it away.

• Dramatically less traumatic yet highly effective alternative to cut and sew gum surgery • Reduces root exposure and sensitivity.

• Reduces infection.

• Reduces expense.

Steps of Laser Gum Treatment or LANAP

$20 OFF

Drs. Emery & Scuro would love to meet you.

Please enjoy $20 OFF any service for your first visit! Call to schedule your appointment today!

585-247-7110

Steps of Laser Gum Treatment or LANAP

A. Perio probe indicates excessive pocket depth.

B. Laser light removes bacteria and diseased tissue.

A. Perio probe indicates excessive pocket depth.

C.Laser Ultrasonic scaler anddiseased special hand instruments aretheused to remove root surface tarter.

B. radiation vaporizes bacteria, tissue, pathological proteins and alerts practitioner to the presence of tartar.

D. Laser finishes cleaning pocket and aids in sealing the pocket closed so new germs C. Ultrasonic scaler and special hand instruments used to remove root surface accretions.

D. Laser finishes debriding pocket and aids in coagulation. cannot enter.

E. Healing of gums to clean root surface occurs.

E.Light Healing gums to cleaned root surface occurs.

F. trauma is of adjusted.

G. occurs.

F. Healing Bite trauma is adjusted.

G. Healing occurs.

All these people have gum pockets 5mm or greater, and the higher classes of gum disease correspond to deeper gum pockets and more loss of bone support to the teeth. All classes of gum disease greater than Class I are candidates for Laser Gum Treatment.

Emery and Scuro DMD, PC 2184 Chili Ave, Rochester, NY 14624 (585) 247-7110 | www.drsemeryandscuro.com Emery & Scuro DMD, PC has been recognized as one of the top Rochester Dentistry practices.

Verified by Opencare.com

ROCHESTER NEW YORK HEALTHCARE GUIDE Advertise in the Inaugural issue Comprehensive Guide to Healthcare / Senior Services

ONLINE AND IN PRINTALL GLOSSY, ALL COLOR ROCHESTER NEW YORK WWW.GVHEALTHNEWS.C O M

For editorial and advertising information, please call 585-421-8109 or email editor@GVhealthnews.com December 2018 •

ROCHESTER NEW YORK WWW.GVHEALTHNEWS.C O M

IN GOOD HEALTH – Rochester / Genesee Valley Healthcare Newspaper

•

Page 9

Live Alone & Thrive

By Gwenn Voelckers

Practical tips, advice and hope for those who live alone

Asking for Help: It Brings Blessings, Not Burdens

H

elp with hanging holiday lights. A ride to the doctor’s office. Help with moving a heavy piece of furniture. An emergency pet-sitting request. We all need a helping hand from time to time.

Giving and receiving help from my friends and family has proved to be a wonderful way for me to deepen relationships and strengthen bonds. It’s another one of the many “life lessons” I’ve learned while on my own — that asking for help brings blessings, not burdens.

If asking for help is difficult or awkward for you, know that you’re not alone. Many people — and, regrettably, many of those who may need it most — find it hard to reach out and ask for help in times of need.

And why don’t they? There are many reasons, but my experience tells me that lots of women and men who live alone avoid asking for help because they fear being seen as weak or vulnerable.

I know that after my divorce I was reluctant to ask for help. I wanted to show the world that I was perfectly fine, thank you. When I really could have used some help,

I avoided asking anybody for anything, determined to muscle through on my own. It led to isolation and pointless hardships.

But the biggest shame? Not asking for assistance kept me distant from friends and family. I denied myself (and them) the chance to connect on a genuine and meaningful level. Looking back, it’s clear to me that my healing and personal growth were compromised as a result.

I encourage you to let go of any excuses not to ask for help, in favor of being true to yourself and to those who love and want to support you.

Below are some words of encouragement and a few tips to help you help yourself: n Be honest. What keeps you from asking for help? Could it be pride? Do you think you’ll be seen as incapable or weak? Are you concerned about being a bother?

Or, would asking for help force you to acknowledge that, indeed, you need it? Take a moment and reflect on what keeps you from asking for assistance. n Redefine what it means to be strong. Everyone needs support every

Parkinson Disease Care NEW YORK (PDCNY) is a unique program open to individuals with Parkinson disease (PD) throughout New York State. The program aims to address barriers to accessing care, improve quality of care, reduce caregiver burden and lower the cost of care through a coordinated telemedicine program.

Telemedicine is the use of smartphones, computers, and tablets to provide clinical care from a distance.

About our Program: Through this care program, individuals with PD can see a Parkinson’s specialist from the comfort of their own home through simple web-based video conferencing. A video visit is like a regular doctor’s visit. During these visits, your doctor will ask questions about your medical history, provide a focused examination, and give you recommendations to improve your health. The PDCNY care team includes a Parkinson’s disease specialist, a nurse who specializes in PD care management, and an experienced telemedicine coordinator.

once in a while, and seeking help is not a weakness. In fact, the strongest people are often those who have the courage to admit they need some assistance and reach out.

I’ve always admired this quality in others. Real strength is knowing your personal limitations and having the confidence to recruit assistance when you need it. n Have a little faith. Believe that people truly want to help. Just turn the tables and think about how you’d respond if a friend, family member or co-worker asked for a helping hand.

Chances are you wouldn’t hesitate.

You might even feel slighted if not asked, especially if someone you cared about was having real difficulty.

Know that others, too, want to be there for their friends and family in need. n Take a chance. When you choose to be vulnerable and ask for help, you are opening yourself up and exposing your authentic self.

While it may feel risky, when you are “real” like this, you have an amazing opportunity to cultivate deeper, more meaningful bonds with others.

It can be a positive, life- and relationship-changing experience, but only if you are willing to take a chance and make your needs known. n Make the ask. As a first step, put some thought into where you could really use some support and then ask for help with one specific item.

It could be something as simple as asking a neighbor for help shoveling snow to something as important as requesting a recommendation for a financial adviser.

If finding just the right words is hard to come by, you might start out by saying, “You know, I’m not very comfortable asking for favors, but I wonder if you might be able to help

This is a good alternative for someone who: · Is not currently seeing a neurologist who specializes in Parkinson’s · Has to travel a long distance to see their doctor · Has difficulty getting to a doctor’s office What is Covered: The care program is 100% funded by the Greater Rochester Health Foundationand the Edmond J. Safra Foundation. All care from the PDCNY team is provided at no cost and health insurance is not required. Medications or treatments provided via a referral from our care team are not covered. PDCNY can even provide you with a webcam free of charge, if needed. For those who cannot easily access internet at home we have satellite sites in five locations across the state of New York.

Learn more: For more information, please contact the PDCNY care team at (585) 276-8784 between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m., Monday – Friday, or visit pdcny.org.

Page 10

•

IN GOOD HEALTH – Rochester / Genesee Valley Healthcare Newspaper • December 2018

me with something?” n Express your gratitude. You know this, of course. A heartfelt thank you in person or in writing will be warmly received by the person whose help you have accepted. No need to go overboard. Remember, people want to help others, and don’t expect to be remunerated for doing a good deed. n Offer help in return. Because giving can be as gratifying as receiving, you’ll want to make it known that you, too, are available to return the favor. We all have gifts, we all have needs, and we all can be of great assistance to one another. Look around, and you’ll find plenty of opportunities to help those who have helped you during your time of need.

Asking for help becomes easier with practice. Just as I did, you’ll soon discover the benefits that lie in the aftermath of the ask — benefits that include stronger relationships with existing friends and family members, as well as the prospect of making new connections with others.

The rewards inherent in accepting help and expressing your gratitude are many and go both ways. So, take it from me: Life can be better, just for the asking.

Gwenn Voelckers leads “Live Alone and Thrive” empowerment workshops for women in Mendon, Monroe County, and is the author of “Alone and Content: Inspiring, empowering essays to help divorced and widowed women feel whole and complete on their own.” For information about workshops, to purchase a book or invite Voelckers to speak, call 585-624-7887, email gvoelckers@rochester.rr.com, or visit www.aloneandcontent.com

Jill Glidden displaying a sneaker she adapted for her husband Mike VerWeire after he had a stroke in 2014. She named it ZAF (Zip Around Footwear) and is now marketing it to people who have difficulty putting shoes on and off. Photo by Christine Green.

Sample of modified sneakers made by Jill Glidden. Her technology is now patent pending.

Brockport Wife Creates New Footwear Need to help her husband wear shoes after stroke motivated creation

By Christine Green

O

n July 5, 2014 after a fun yet exhausting holiday party Mike VerWeire of Brockport suffered a stroke. It’s hard for his wife, Jill Glidden, to talk about that summer without tears filling her eyes. His stroke changed both their lives in many ways, but it also inspired Glidden to rise to the challenge and help not only her husband but numerous others as well.

After his stroke VerWeire had to wear an ankle foot orthotic (AFO) in order to stabilize his foot since he could no longer flex his foot or toes.

The hard plastic brace was difficult, to say the least, to fit into his size 13 shoe. “Trying to get a foot that big with an AFO on it into a shoe of any sort is very difficult,” said Glidden, who owns and operates Jill’s Boutique Salon in Brockport.

Glidden searched high and low for shoe options that would help her and her husband expedite getting shoes on every day. Shoe stores and the internet offered clunky and unattractive shoes made with Velcro, but she knew that she’d end up having the same problems getting them on him. She also knew that her husband needed more than just one style of shoe.

The Shoe MacGyver Friend and fellow hairdresser Michele Ashlee calls Glidden “MacGyver” after the famously inventive

TV character. That’s because when she puts her mind to it she can solve any issue in her way. When her elderly dog lost the use of her back legs, she constructed a little wheelchair for her out of PVC pipes. When a friend’s husband had to deal with a burdensome cast on his leg she made special pants that would slide effortlessly over it.

Her husband’s shoe issue was a problem she decided to tackle head on, too.

She picked up a boot at Walmart, cut it open around the top, and sewed a zipper into it. When it was done, VerWeire could simply set his foot into the shoe and zip up the top.

No more painfully curled toes, no more hassles and no more frustration.

Glidden was on to something.

She knew that this technology was not only useful to her and her husband but that people with foot issues everywhere could benefit from it.

With the help of her friend Sue Lewis she came up with the name Zip Around Footwear (ZAF). Her technology is now patent pending, and she can modify a large variety of shoes.

Soon other people sought out Glidden so that she could modify shoes for them or their loved ones.

As demand grew she invested in a sewing machine designed to make horse saddles and dramatically cut down on production time.

“When I was doing it by hand, December 2018 •

it took probably at least six hours to do one shoe, because I did little tiny stitches. But since I’ve gotten my sewing machine I can get a pair done in about an hour and half,” she was happy to report.

It’s clear that Glidden’s invention has made life easier for countless families who’ve purchased her product. Zachary DeLany of Brockport helps take care of his father, Judson DeLany, Jr., who suffers from Alzheimer’s.

“It’s a game changer for us all.

It’s really easy for everyone to take care of him,” said DeLany. “With Jill’s invention it just makes it so much easier and quicker to get his shoes on and off every day.”

Zachary’s mother Diane agreed and said, “All we have to do now it put his foot it and zip them up!”

Kathy Oaks, also of Brockport, needed a shoe that she could wear after foot surgery last summer. She decided to give a ZAF a try. She was so impressed by the comfort and ease of wear that she wore them to her doctor’s visit. Her doctor was extremely impressed. In fact, even after her foot healed, Oaks continued to wear her ZAF shoe because she liked it so much. She made a cross country road trip in her specialized shoe, too.

Heart & Sole But ZAFs are about more than making life simpler. They have also

provided freedom, dignity and independence to many people.

Lori Burnett of Brockport has a 23-year-old son, Stephen, who was hit by a car at age 14. He sustained a traumatic brain injury and now must wear a very large AFO. His ZAF shoe has made dressing every day much quicker. But for Burnett these shoes were also an outward reflection of Glidden’s giving spirit, and she said that Glidden “has the biggest heart of anybody. What she is doing now for people is all from her heart.”

Glidden has modified over 30 shoes for people all over the country and orders keep coming in.

Oaks also believes that Glidden’s ZAFs are more than an interesting invention. To her, Glidden’s story is one of perseverance in the face of adversity: “She’s someone who had a situation she had to overcome, and when she overcame it she shared it with others which is so important. When someone helps you it is a good idea to pay it forward. It’s such a blessing.”

Things would never be the same again for Glidden and VerWeire after his stroke, but she didn’t let it get her down for long. Through the many long months of emotional and physical upheaval she stood strong and, in the end, found a unique way to make shoe wear more accessible to all.

For more information visit ziparoundfootwear.com.

IN GOOD HEALTH – Rochester / Genesee Valley Healthcare Newspaper

•

Page 11

Career in Healthcare

Lactation Consultants Profession expected to experience a 15 percent job growth rate from 2016 to 2026

By Deborah Jeanne Sergeant

T

he Bureau of Labor Statistics projects that registered nurses with credentials as lactation consultants will experience a 15 percent job growth rate from 2016 to 2026. The BLS doesn’t account for independent lactation consultants, but with that rate of growth and the resurging interest in lactation, working as a lactation consultant sounds like a solid career option. That’s not why most lactation consultants pursue this type of work, however. It’s a work of love.

Diane Cassidy never planned to work as an lactation consultant. The more she learned from a breastfeeding class as a new mom, the more she realized she wanted to help more moms know its bonding and health benefits.

She eventually completed training and passed the International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC) exam. She has worked in a hospital setting and pediatric office and now works full-time as an independent lactation consultant.

It may seem like obstetricians and pediatricians give moms the help they need, but Cassidy said that “they don’t know a lot about breastfeeding, especially if the baby isn’t gaining weight. They’re not trained in breast feeding.”

She said that many mothers feel very closely followed by providers throughout pregnancy and then afterwards, they lack mentors. While breastfeeding is perfectly natural, many young mothers weren’t breastfed themselves or don’t know other moms whom they can ask about nursing.

“Your body can create and nourish a life,” Cassidy said.

She said she spends a lot of time correcting false information about

breastfeeding and encouraging mothers to feel confident that their bodies can do what they’re meant to do.

“It really makes me feel good to help support families and navigate this easier,” Cassidy said. “I find it to be quite an honor. It’s a vulnerable time and so hard and confusing for moms. I like putting a mom at ease.”

For Alison Spath, an independent lactation consultant, her own experience as a new mother 14 years ago drew her to want to help other new moms learn about the importance of breastfeeding and guide them to breastfeeding success.

She had been working as a computer programmer. When she was pregnant with her first child, Spath went to La Leche League meetings to learn more about breastfeeding and found she loved the peer support.

She wanted to offer the same kind of help to other moms.

“I loved this field once I became a mom,” Spath said.

Spath completed training to become a birth doula and later passed the International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC) exam. She sees clients at Beautiful Birth Choices in Rochester or in clients’ homes.

Lactation consultants help mothers who want to learn more about breastfeeding or experience problems with milk supply, the baby latching on properly or other issues. Women who have undergone breast reduction or augmentation may face issues with breastfeeding. Adoptive mothers of newborns may want to induce lactation and could use the help of a consultant.

Before sitting for the IBCLC exam, a lactation consultant candidate must complete sufficient required health science classes (or have completed training such as an RN or

obstetrician), complete a minimum of 90 hours lactation-specific education and complete a required number hours of supervised breastfeeding clinical support. The requirements vary depending upon the individual’s educational background and if they take the mentorship route.

Certified lactation counselors must have 45 hours of training and pass a three-part test. Less ongoing education is required compared with a lactation consultant.

Ellen Derby, certified lactation counselor and birth doula, said that she answers “more common areas of concern” about lactation.

Derby meets with clients between Rochester and Waterloo and south into Yates, Ontario and Steuben counties. She has been a counselor 18 years.

Derby struggled to breastfeed as a new mom. After she had her third child in 2000, she began working with new moms in a peer program and eventually became certified as a lactation counselor.

“I like helping moms feel they can breastfeed,” she said.

According to www.salary.com, a median annual income for lactation consultants is $79,007, but that was

based upon registered nurses who have completed lactation consultant training. Since many work independently or else completed training to augment other, related work, it’s difficult to estimate how much a lactation consultant makes.

Lactation consultants work in obstetric and pediatric offices; as a midwife, doula or labor and delivery nurse; or as part of a women’s wellness/health practice.

Independent lactation consultants charge around $125 to $150 to meet with a client and engage in follow-up calls and emails. The rates depend upon several factors, including if it’s an in-home session. Many hospitals offer ongoing consulting as part of the birthing experience.

“I think it’s a field that’s growing,” Cassidy said. “When I started 13 years ago, were weren’t that many of us.”

She advises women interested in lactation consulting, whether fulltime or to augment her other health care work, to find an established consultant as a mentor.

“Some of the greatest teaching I got was from the mentors I had,” Cassidy said.

Gum Disease? LANAP May Help

loss of bone support to the teeth. All classes of gum disease greater than Class I are candidates for laser gum treatment.

Laser-Assisted New Attachment Procedure offers dramatic benefits over traditional gum surgery

L

aser treatment is an advanced technique for your doctor to treat gum disease and save many teeth that were previously considered hopeless. A laser light is used to gently remove harmful bacteria and diseased tissue from the gum pocket. This allows the body to heal naturally so that the gum pockets improve and the teeth become more stable. The laser is an effective tool that will help many patients bring themselves to a more healthy state.

Laser-Assisted New Attachment Procedure (LANAP) offers dramatic benefits over traditional gum surgery.

• No cutting of the gum tissue with a scalpel and no stitches means easy recovery with minimal bleeding.

Page 12

•

• Preserve gum tissue instead of cutting it away; • Dramatically less traumatic yet highly effective alternative to cut and sew gum surgery; • Reduces root exposure and sensitivity; • Reduces infection; • Reduces expense.

Who is a candidate for this therapy?

First, it is helpful to know who is not a candidate for laser gum treatment. Patients who have healthy gums do not need this treatment.

Also, people with superficial gingivitis do not need this form of therapy. Superficial gingivitis patients have red swollen gums but have

gum pockets less than 5mm. These patients are classified as Class I. All other periodontal patients are Class II, Class III, or Class IV. All these people have gum pockets 5 mm or greater, and the higher classes of gum disease correspond to deeper gum pockets, and more

IN GOOD HEALTH – Rochester / Genesee Valley Healthcare Newspaper • December 2018

For more information, about options to treat gum disease, call the dental office of Emery & Scuro DMD, PC at 2184 Chili Ave., Rochester, or call 585-247-7110. Drs. Emery and Scuro’s practice is one of the first two in the Rochester region trained and licensed to other this FDA-approved patented procedure.

For more information, visit www. drsemeryandscuro.com

SmartBites

The skinny on healthy eating

Mussels pack a mighty nutritious punch

M

y husband and I eat a lot of mussels throughout the year and especially during the holiday season. We like them because they’re inexpensive, quick to cook and delicious. We also appreciate how incredibly nutritious they are.

According to some experts, in fact, mussels possess the most impressive nutritional profile of all shellfish.

Mussels are protein superstars, with about 10 mussels serving up 20 grams, an amount that satisfies a good chunk of average daily needs.

Unlike some red meat’s protein, a mussel’s protein is lean, with much less total fat, saturated fat and (depending on the cut) up to half the calories. As a 3-oz comparison: trimmed sirloin steak, 300 calories; 10 mussels, 150 calories. An essential nutrient that powers many chemical reactions, protein helps us build up, keep up and replace tissues.

Mussels are also a great source of many vitamins and minerals, with respectable amounts of several B vitamins, vitamin C, iron and zinc.

But these scrumptious mollusks really show their might when it comes to vitamin B-12, selenium and manganese. Just 10 cooked mussels provide around 300 percent of our

daily needs for both vitamin B-12 and manganese, and 100 percent of our needs for selenium.

Vitamin B-12 — a “high-priority” vitamin that’s critical to good health — helps produce red blood cells and DNA, keep nerves healthy, support bone health and synthesize serotonin (a.k.a. the “happiness” chemical).

Studies support that vitamin B-12 may help to boost energy, slow mental decline, prevent osteoporosis and improve moods.

The manganese that’s abundant in mussels not only plays an important role in bone health and energy production, but helps to regulate blood sugar, as well. Selenium, on the other hand, supports the thyroid gland and boosts immune system health. Both are noteworthy antioxidants that help to reduce inflammation and fight cellular damage.

Though low in fat, mussels boast an appreciable amount of hearthealthy omega-3 fatty acids: about 750 mg per 10 mussels. These special fats appear to benefit hearts by decreasing the risk of irregular heartbeats, lowering blood pressure and reducing the growth rate of plaque in arteries.

These scrumptious mollusks possess the most impressive nutritional profile of all shellfish, especially when it comes to vitamin B-12, selenium and manganese.

Coconut Curry Mussels

stir in lime juice and cilantro. Serve with crusty bread.

Adapted from Martha Stewart Recipes

1 tablespoon unsalted butter or olive oil 3 garlic cloves, minced 2 tablespoons minced, peeled fresh ginger (from a 2-inch piece) 1 can (13.5 oz) lite coconut milk 1 tablespoons red Thai curry paste 3 pounds mussels, rinsed, scrubbed and de-bearded (most come de-bearded) 2-3 tablespoons fresh lime juice ¼ cup chopped fresh cilantro Fresh, crusty bread (optional) In a wide, shallow pot or sauté pan with a lid, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add garlic and ginger and cook until fragrant, one minute. Whisk in coconut milk and curry paste; bring the liquid up to a boil and immediately lower it to a lively simmer. Add mussels and stir to combine. Cover and cook until mussels open, about 5 to 7 minutes, stirring once. Remove pot from heat, discard any unopened mussels, and

Helpful tips

Choose fresh-smelling, live mussels with tightly closed shells.

Mussels taste best the day purchased, but can be stored in the refrigerator for a few days. To store, place mussels in a bowl and simply cover with a damp paper towel (never store in water). Rinse mussels under water before cooking and tap any mussels that are still open. If it closes, it’s alive; if it doesn’t, it should be tossed.

Anne Palumbo is a lifestyle colum-

nist, food guru, and seasoned cook, who has perfected the art of preparing nutritious, calorie-conscious dishes. She is hungry for your questions and comments about SmartBites, so be in touch with Anne at avpalumbo@aol.com.

WE’RE HIRING! Trillium Health is growing, and we’re looking for candidates like YOU! Currently recruiting: You don’t have to face hearing loss alone.

The Rochester Chapter of the Hearing Loss Association of America (HLAA) unites people with all degrees of hearing loss.

Come to one of our monthly chapter meetings to meet others with hearing loss and learn from the professionals who treat it.

Behavioral Health Counselor, LCSW-R Community Health Specialist HARP HCBS Care Manager Peer Navigator Registered Nurse RN Complex Care Manager Social Worker – Adult Day Health and more!

Visit our website for details: HearingLossRochester.org

—Vincent, CyberKnife cancer patient

Non-invasive and painfree Treatment typically completes in 1–5 sessions Minimal recovery time

To view these positions and others, visit trilliumhealth.org!

Learn more at hoacny.com/Cyberknife CyberKnife treats tumors in the brain, spine, lung, liver, prostate and more.

December 2018 •

IN GOOD HEALTH – Rochester / Genesee Valley Healthcare Newspaper

•

Page 13

Holiday Greetings

Learn More About Your Family Health History Holidays are a great time to put your family’s health history together

By Deborah Jeanne Sergeant

A

s you gather with your family this time of year, consider asking a few questions about your family’s health history. It may seem a strange topic for conversation, but it can affect your health in significant ways.

“Families share more than their good looks,” said Christy Richards, registered nurse and health educator for Ontario County Public Health.

“Some family traits increase your risk for diseases like Alzheimer’s, cancer, arthritis, high blood pressure and many more. The more information you gather while around that table, the better.”

Richards said to focus on your immediate family related by blood: parents, siblings and grandparents. Ask a relative who has a clear recollection of family health about major medical issues that have been diagnosed, not their best guesses.

Richards said that five elements are important in addition to the major medical issues diagnosed: cause of death, age of onset, environmental factors and ethnic background.

Cause of death means why the person died. Someone may have

been diagnosed with prostate cancer (which is still important to know) but died 30 years later of something else.

Age of onset means when the disease started. Environmental factors refers to outside contributors to the disease, such as working with asbestos resulting in cancer. Or lifestyle factors that affected health. Many families share the same habits that can shape their health.

As for ethnic background, “you’d be surprised the number of people who don’t know,” Richards said.

Also talk with your in-laws for the sake of your children. Knowing what health conditions run in your family can’t guarantee you won’t succumb to them but the knowledge can help you mitigate the effects or possibly prevent them from happening, according to physician Michael D. Mendoza, commissioner of public health for Monroe County Department of Public Health in Rochester.

“If you know your health history, you can know things that could change recommendations for screening,” Mendoza said.

He offered a few examples.

“First-degree relatives with breast cancer may change the age of

when you first need screening,” he said. “Colon cancer is another one.

Generally, it may warrant more aggressive screening. We want to catch illnesses at a point that can improve management.”

Discussing your family health history with your care provider can also influence recommendations about health habits and other lifestyle choices — factors that may have contributed to your family’s health conditions.

Many people who have experienced the loss of a loved one feel especially vulnerable during the holiday season. Mendoza recommended bringing up the possibly sensitive topic by introducing it gently, “I have questions about our health history. Is it OK to talk about it?”

Ask if anyone in the family has died unexpectedly from any cause and also ask about cardiovascular disease, cancer at any age, endocrine disorders, gastrointestinal conditions and any chronic illnesses.

While talking openly about health, ask about your relatives’ health care proxy and advanced care planning to ensure they have settled who will make health care decisions

Why Do Some People Experience Depression During the Holidays? won’t be able to reproduce it. You may also have the unrealistic expectation around the holidays that ‘everything must be perfect’, and perfection is, of course, rarely obtainable.

tations, other reasons for feeling blue around the holidays are numerous.

According to the National Mental Health Association, fatigue, financial limitations, missing loved ones and family tensions are all common reasons for feeling sadness and depression symptoms during the holidays.

If you’re like most people, you associate the holidays with family and togetherness. But in today’s world of high divorce rates and fragmented family units, it’s common to feel stress and sadness when trying to work out how time between family members is shared. Being separated from loved ones, whether because of death, financial limitations, or divorce can be especially painful around the holidays.

Symptoms Range from Fatigue to Family Tensions to Financial Limitations

Source: UHN — University Health News.

Many people with depression symptoms experience a worsening of mood over the holidays.

T

he holidays can be a time of emotional highs, but also lows.

It’s not uncommon to feel loneliness, anxiety, sadness interspersed with happiness. The bad news is the holiday blues can worsen depression symptoms in people struggling with chronic depression.

For Many With Depression, Loneliness is Heightened During the Holidays Many people with depression symptoms experience a worsening of mood over the holidays. A study of 420 Chicago-area college students investigated their feelings about the Christmas holiday and found that three of the most common themes are loneliness, anxiety and helplessness.

In another study, Canadian patients who were being evaluated in a psyPage 14

•

chiatric emergency service during the Christmas season reported feeling depressed and cited loneliness and being without a family as the most common stressors.

The Biggest Cause of Holiday Blues is Unrealistic Expectations Experts say one of the biggest causes of holiday depression symptoms is unrealistic expectations. Studies have confirmed that the primary reason for holiday depression is belief in the myth that everyone else is having a good time and engaged in loving family relationships. While this is certainly a common wish, it’s not necessarily a fact.

You may be holding on to what you remember as an ideal holiday from years gone by. Inevitably, you

on their behalf if they’re incapacitated and their end-of-life choices.

“Anyone at any point could be in a serious car accident or fall where they can’t make decisions on their behalf,” Mendoza said. “It’s assumed your spouse, sibling or children would make the decisions.

“An individual may not want his spouse making those decisions but we in the health care field won’t know. When you’re in distress, it’s not the time to fish around in the family to find someone to make a decision. Have those difficult conversations when you have the luxury of time.”

Richards advised beginning the health history conversation by asking about how old Grandma was when she died, when and why. Or simply ask in open-ended fashion if any health problems run in the family.

“If you don’t get along with all your family, try talking with the one you do connect with,” Richards said.

“You can do some research with death certificates.”

Obituary listings, many of which may be searchable online or at the library, may also offer facts.

Besides all the unrealistic expec-

IN GOOD HEALTH – Rochester / Genesee Valley Healthcare Newspaper • December 2018

Holiday Greetings

Missing Your

Give Healthful Food Gifts

By Deborah Jeanne Sergeant

Many people enjoy giving (and receiving) food gifts. They don’t end up as clutter and offer a treat the recipient might not otherwise indulge in. Giving food also bears a few caveats, however.

It helps to know the preferences of the recipient and any dietary restrictions, both medical and self-imposed. Consider these healthful suggestions.We interviewed two local experts. Here are their suggestions:

Suggestions by Amanda Ronzo, registered

Suggestions from Heather Carrera, certified

For people trying to maintain a healthful weight “Give an herbal tea basket with a variety of loose leaf teas and a diffuser. Add some local honey or variety of grass-fed organic jerky or almond butter. Or give a nice water bottle like the Hydro Flask. It keeps your water extremely cold for 24 hours. They’re dishwasher safe.”

For people trying to maintain a healthful weight “Give a gift certificate to a local healthy eatery such as CoreLife. Healthy eaters are busy, too. It can be nice to have a healthful, go-to option on the way home. Or a matcha tea set. Matcha is made from ground-up whole leaves, rather than making tea from an infusion and discarding the leaves. It contains up to three times more EGCG, the beneficial catechin linked to fighting everything from cancer to viruses to heart disease. Give a bone broth sampler, great for gut healing, bone broth is one of the best foods that a health-conscious person can include in their diet. It’s great for cold and flu season.”

dietitian with Nutrition Care of Rochester in Pittsford.

For children “Get a Hydro Flask for kids. Or popcorn kernels and a book about popcorn. That was one of my favorite gifts when I was in first grade. There’s always fruit leather, LÄRABARs, or squeeze pouches of fruit that have no sugar added. Keep the ingredient list short and be mindful of added colors, sugars and portion sizes. If you’ll give something sweet, pick something in a single serve package, like a chocolate square as opposed to a whole chocolate bar.”

For diabetics “Choose a variety of nuts and dark chocolate or coffee, tea and cheese. I would make note not to pick anything labeled ‘sugar free’ because it’s not carbohydrate free and diabetics have to watch their carbohydrates.”

For seniors “If you go with nuts, consider dental issues and pick softer nuts. Flavored popcorn is good, as it adds fiber to the diet. Or a meal delivery service, so it’s ready to go.

Look for items with an easy-to-open package. If they have dementia, sweet flavors are the last to go. So they may enjoy some sweet treats or sparkling grape juice. Getting enough fluids is a big deal for older adults. Consider a fresh fruit basket, but keep it small so it doesn’t go bad.

They have added fiber, potassium, vitamin C, antioxidants and phytonutrients.”

College student “Anything on-the-go, like big boxes of protein bars.

Quest are pretty good. Small packages of nuts and seeds.

They might enjoy some Clementines in their room or packets of oatmeal to cook in their room. Instant rice bowls, soup, quinoa or instant Thai are good, but look for low sodium versions. Or tuna in packets with wheat crackers.”

Loved Ones Over the Holidays?

Don’t work through the grief alone Individual & Couples Counseling

nutrition specialist for Lesley James, family physician in integrative practice in Rochester.

For children “A Chalk Pot herb kit can help the kid in your life appreciate the joy of growing and harvesting their own herbs that they grew themselves. Herbs have many health benefits, so it’s a great way to add another layer of nutrition to your meals.”

For diabetics “Veggie spiralizer with zucchini and spiralizer cookbook lets pasta lovers still enjoy their favorite dish while watching carbohydrate intake. An olive oil lovers tasting kit (make sure it’s extra-virgin) provides polyphenols that assist in the reduction of LDL cholesterol oxidation, improves the ability of blood vessels to expand, and helps reduce inflammation. Dark chocolate may have beneficial effects on blood pressure, insulin resistance and vascular and platelet function. Choose varieties with over 75 percent cacao with no added sugar.”

For seniors “If someone you know may not be eating well, or if they live alone, a meal delivery service or even a grocery delivery service such as Thrive Market may be a perfect gift. Thrive is an online grocery delivery service that has an assortment of clean, organic food. There are several local meal delivery services in the Rochester area that focus on healthy options.”

College student “Manuka Honey is a unique and beneficial form of honey that has digestive healing properties as well as immune supportive properties. It has even been shown to stop the growth of strep bacteria. Paired with a hot cup of tea, this could be the perfect gift for the stressed college student. A Numi Organic Tea by Mood gift set lets students choose their tea based on their mood, while ‘secretly’ supporting their health. Give a microwavable glass popcorn popper with tub of organic popcorn kernels.

“You Can Do This; I Can Help.

I’m determined to guide you in the direction of hope and healing”

Nicki Ditch

Licensed Mental Health Counselor

Call today to arrange a session

(585) 210-3663

Webster & Greece Locations Evenings & Saturdays available

www.nickiditchlmhc.com

HOUSEMATE WANTED Responsible working senior seeking same to enjoy the benefits of shared housing.

My Brighton home is comfortable and convenient to all.

Let’s talk! E-mail:

Idon305242@gmail.com

for more information

The Monroe Eye Center Rochester’s Leading Insurance Provider

Now accepting United Healthcare Community Plan and United Healthcare Community Plan Dual Complete. Other insurances accepting are: Medicare, Medicaid, BlueCross BlueShield, Blue-Choice OptionMarch, Vision-Davis Vision, and many more. Call today.

To schedule an eye exam call:

585-442-1420

To speak to the optician about having your prescription filled, call:

585-442-1479 1644 Monroe Ave, Rochester NY 14618

December 2018 •

IN GOOD HEALTH – Rochester / Genesee Valley Healthcare Newspaper

•

Page 15

Career in Healthcare

Rheumatologists in Short Supply By 2030 the nation will have only half the number of professionals it needs

By Deborah Jeanne Sergeant

I

f you need to see a rheumatologist, get in line. You will have a long way to go until you see one — and this waiting period won’t improve anytime soon.

By 2030 the nation will have only half the number of rheumatologists it needs. Presently, the U.S. is at 13 percent below the ideal number of rheumatologists, according to research by Rheumatology Service at San Antonio Military Medical Center in Texas.

“It’s been a long-standing problem and hasn’t changed,” said physician Thomas Madejski, who specializes in internal medicine, geriatric medicine, hospice and palliative care, and leads the Medical Society of the State of New York.

He said that many issues have caused the shortage, such as liability issues and, locally, “the hassles” of working in New York.

“The state medical society is working to improve the practice environment in New York state and its liability rate. We want to reduce the regulatory burden and make it less expensive for doctors to practice,” said Madejski.

The demand for care has also increased, including the aging baby boomer population as well as better diagnostic efforts and more treatment options. Madejski said that for 80 to 90 percent of osteoarthritis cases, a primary care, internist or family physician could provide sufficient care; however, some patients demand more care, which has affected the issue to a small degree.

Physician extenders — nurse practitioners and physician assistants — can help rheumatologists see more patients; however, Madejksi said that many primary care physicians even lack the experience and training to feel comfortable in prescribing some of the newer medication to treat patients with rheumatologic disorders.

“We need to re-examine how we educate and train physicians,” Madejksi said. “We should be training physicians more at this level. With telemedicine and tele-health we can leverage rheumatologists more to distill the essence of what we need: diagnosis and treatment so we can make it more efficient for them.”

Locally, the shortage persists as well, which can make setting ap-

pointments a struggle.

Physician Peter Deane, who is affiliated with Allergy, Asthma, Immunology of Rochester, P.C. (AAIR), said that his offices “try to make as many slots available as we can” among the offices’ four rheumatologists.

AAIR has a waiting list some weeks, but generally meets demand.

Deane wants more primary care physicians to prioritize referrals more carefully to help rheumatologists see only the patients that truly need their care.

Deane thinks that fewer new physicians are going into the specialty, partly because of the nature of rheumatology. The cases are usually complex and require longer visits with much discussion. While physicians want to meet patients’ needs, they also need to stay in business.

“Talking with people is very poorly rewarded in health care,” Deane said. “In other specialties people are reimbursed better. People going into rheumatology have no

special advantage in paying off their student loans.”

AAIR doesn’t use many extenders, because of the specialized training rheumatology requires.

Deane said that core medical training doesn’t cover it.

He said that AAIR works hard at recruitment and retaining physicians.

Convincing people to want to move to Rochester is the first hurdle. Deane graduated locally and stayed. Selling outside medical students on living in the Flower City is very different.

Deane cited a cold climate and high cost of living as deterrents.

“It’s not something where people wake up and say, ‘I want to move to Upstate New York,” he said.

He said AAIR tries to offer fair pay and good working conditions to keep physicians onboard.

Deane doesn’t foresee an imminent end to the shortage.

According to salary.com, New York state rheumatologists make an average of $ 231,375. In Rochester, it’s $220,183.

St. Ann’s Community at Cherry Ridge

Senior living at its finest!

Call today for a tour of our beautiful Webster campus, including: • Independent Living Cottages & Apartments • Assisted Living • Memory Care • Skilled Nursing

a t C h e r r y R i d585.697.6702 ge at Cherry Ridg at Cherry Ridge

Page 16

•

IN GOOD HEALTH – Rochester / Genesee Valley Healthcare Newspaper • December 2018

900 Cherry Ridge Boulevard Webster, NY 14580 stannscommunity.com

NY Ranks High in New Cases Fifty to 100 new cases per year are identified in the Rochester region

By Deborah Jeanne Sergeant

N

ew York ranked fourth in the nation for new cases of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) in 2015, and ninth in 2016, according to statistics provided by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Of those infected with HIV, one in seven doesn’t realize it.

Physician William Valenti, staff physician and co-founder of Trillium Health in Rochester, said that New York’s high ranking is somewhat skewed by New York City.

“We identify 50 to 100 new cases in the Rochester area per year,” he said.

That’s a far cry from the 2,052 people in New York City diagnosed in 2016, according to www. aidsvu.org.

More than 108,000 people living in New York City have HIV/AIDS and 20 percent do not know they are infected, states the website of Gay Valemti Men’s Health

Crisis, a provider of HIV/AIDS prevention, care and advocacy in New York City.

Valenti said that although the rate of new HIV infections is higher in New York City than in Upstate, the rate is decreasing in New York City, unlike Upstate’s stagnant figures.

He said that behavioral intervention, such as using condoms and limiting sexual partners “are not as effective by themselves as a part of a medical and health care intervention.

Medical care will become biomedical intervention. That is going to help turn this around.”

Valenti said that Trillium reaches out to at-risk populations through social media more than traditional methods, such as an information booth at a festival.

Same-day treatment and offering small supplies of free medication to uninsured people trying to set up health benefits or entitlements are also ways that Trillium is trying to make access to medication easier.

No cure for HIV exists, although a bevy of medications can slow it and improve quality of life.

Trillium and other providers prescribe pre-exposure prophylax-

We BUY TEST STRIPS We will pick up and pay on the spot

Highest Prices Paid We pick up 7 days a week.

One Touch Ultra & Freestyle Lite.

All Brands Considered. Up to $50.

(585)-284-3455 December 2018 •

is (PrEP) to HIV-negative people at high risk for infection who aren’t likely to adhere to behavioral changes. A daily dose has proven 95 percent effective or higher in suppressing transmission through sexual behavior. Researchers have not determined if the same holds true for shared needles.

Roxanna Inscho, program coordinator for the HIV/STD Prevention Program with the Monroe County Department of Public Health, calls PrEP “a great tool” for halting the spread of HIV. Post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) is part of another strategy.

When a diagnosis is made, the program works with patients to contact others who may have been exposed so they can take PEP to reduce their risk of infection. PEP should be started within 36 hours but no later than 72 hours after exposure to HIV. Taken within that timeframe, it’s 80 percent effective.

“It’s all done in a HIPAA-compliant way,” said physician Marielena Vélez de Brown, who serves as a health deputy commissioner of the Monroe County Department of Pub-

lic Health. “We don’t share the name of the source of where they get that exposure. Any testing we do, there’s always talk about how to use barrier protection and needle exchange programs and other risk reductions.”

Inscho feels like the war on HIV is progressing toward the goal of fewer than 750 new HIV infections by 2020, which would end its status as an epidemic.

Patricia Terziani, director of the Action Front Center program, the HIV/sexually transmitted infection program at Action for a Better Community, Inc. in Rochester, also said that New York has made progress in reducing HIV. Terziani said that the opioid epidemic and increases in heroin use may be a small factor in controlling the spread of HIV, since the latter is spread by sharing needles with those infected. The CDC states that 9 percent (3,425) of new HIV infections are among those who inject drugs (that figure also includes 1,201 diagnoses among gay and bisexual men who inject drugs).

The CDC also states on its website that gay and bisexual men accounted for 67 percent (26,570) of all new HIV diagnoses nationwide and heterosexual contact accounted for 24 percent (9,578) of HIV diagnoses.

By identifying higher risk populations, health organizations can know where to target their attention.

“At one time, New York state was thought the epicenter of HIV and AIDS for the country,” Terziani said. “We’ve actually come a long way in reducing the number of new transmissions, compared with many states that have increasing numbers.”

She said that her organization trains people living with HIV as peer educators to reach out to the community, especially those in high risk areas or who engage in high risk behaviors.

“We do much less talking about ‘This is HIV and here are the risks,’” she said. “We try to talk with individuals at high risk with testing and services.”

Though organizations combating HIV still promote condom use, treating people with medication to suppress the virus represents the means of prevention that they believe will end HIV’s status as an epidemic.

Terziani said that at this point, getting more people to ignore stigma and get tested represents the biggest barrier in stopping the disease.

DID YOU KNOW...???

DID YOU KNOW....???

• An estimated 2.8 million people suffer a brain injury each year • 3.1 million people with a life-long as • An estimated 1.7live million people suffer a braindisability injury each year a result•of a Traumatic Injury (TBI), with 80,000-90,000 peopleBrain experience the onset of long termmany disability unable to live independently without supports.

each year

• A Brain canInjury be caused by a stroke,prevent assault, car accident, Bridges ForInjury Brain services brain injury survivors disabilities from being substanceand abuse,adults sportingwith injury, etc.. inappropriately placed in nursing homes, institutional Brain Injury servicesand prevent brain injury settings Bridges or fromFor becoming homeless allows and of adults with disabilities from being inapsurvivorssurvivors the dignity living more independently. propriately placed in nursing homes, institutional settings or from becoming homeless and allows survivors Our Social Day Services, open Monday-Saturday, provide respite and peace of mind to theopportunities dignity of living caregivers, while offering social and recreational tomore yourindependently. loved one.

We offer a wide range of programs and services

meet the needs of those affected by a To find out more, call us at to(585) 396-0070 brain injury or physical disability. or check us out at www.bridgesforbraininjury.org

To find out more, call us at

Bridges For Brain Injury, Inc. is a New York State provider of home and community based (585) 396-0070 check us out services within the Rochester, Finger Lakes & Southern Tier Regions.

Servicesor can be funded through NYS Medicaid Waiver & Managed Care programs or at private pay. www.bridgesforbraininjury.org Serving the Rochester, Finger Lakes and Southern Tier regions.

IN GOOD HEALTH – Rochester / Genesee Valley Healthcare Newspaper

•

Page 17

Study: Dogs Prolong Life Dog ownership can decrease a single adult’s risk of death by 33 percent

By Christine Green

K

athy Weston of Brockport can’t live without her furry friends, Oreo and Lady.

“They give me a reason to get up in the morning and a reason to go for a walk every day. They give me something to look after and care for and gush over.”

But Weston’s dogs aren’t just loveable companions. Her dogs are actually prolonging her life.

A 2017 Swedish study followed over three million adults for 12 years.

The study — “Dog ownership and the risk of cardiovascular disease and death – a nationwide cohort study,” published in November 2017 — concluded that owning a dog can decrease a single adult’s risk of death by 33 percent.

This study wasn’t a surprise to local dog owners like Weston. They already knew what so many devoted pet owners knew: dogs not only enhance their lives emotionally they also improve overall health.

How do dogs specifically help our health and longevity?

The Swedish researchers mentioned that dogs may be beneficial in reducing cardiovascular risk in their owners by encouraging outdoor physical exercise. They pointed to a 2013 review of published studies about dog ownership — “Dog Ownership and Physical Activity: A Review of the Evidence,” published in July 2013. This review showed that about 60 percent of dog owners walked their dogs at least four times a week.

Kelly Myers of Henrietta said that her dog Bailey has motivated her to get more exercise since her family adopted her from One Love Pet Adoptions in Scottsville five years ago.

“I especially enjoy walking her in all seasons. I wouldn’t normally be outside for a 30 minute walk on a 20 degree day, but the dog loves it, so we go.”

Phil Stein, an internal medicine staff physician at Rochester Regional Health, cautioned that humans need to do more than just walk our dogs, though. He noted that people real-

Kelly Myers of Henrietta said that her dog Bailey has motivated her to get more exercise. “I especially enjoy walking her in all seasons. I wouldn’t normally be outside for a 30 minute walk on a 20 degree day, but the dog loves it, so we go. ly need “species specific” exercise, “where you get your heart rate up to some reasonable percentage of your maximum and keep it there for 20-30 minutes.” No one should only rely on dog walking to increase physical health.

But he wholeheartedly agreed that dog ownership is indeed very beneficial to his patients in other ways. He has observed many patients who, like Weston, feel a greater sense of overall purpose because of their dogs: “I have seen evidence of psychological benefits in a number of my patients, particularly older folks who have lost a spouse and now find themselves living alone. The companionship and love shared with their dogs has dispelled their loneliness, kept love in their lives, and imparted an additional sense of purpose that has faded with age also helping to keep them more active than they might otherwise be.”

In other words, by decreasing loneliness dogs may increase emo-

tional and mental wellness in their owners.

And people who may have a sense of social isolation prior to owning a dog often reconnect or rediscover the community around them.

Myers, the Henrietta resident, has definitely noticed a greater sense of community because of Bailey and her daily walks. Myers and her family are now more attuned to the lives of their neighbors and feel more connected to the people they encounter on their walks.

“We have a broader sense of ownership and care of our neighborhood,” said Myers. “We have a sense of belonging that was missing, even though we had lived here for over 10 years before getting a dog.”

In addition to combating loneliness and social isolation, dog ownership tends to decrease everyday stress. The authors of the Swedish study noted that dog ownership has also been associated with elevated parasympathetic nervous system activity and diminished activity in

The Fundamentals of Mental Health If a loved one is exhibiting signs of mental illness, have an open, honest discussion

By Mary Zagari K. MacLeod, Ph.D.

M

ental health includes areas of emotional, psychological and social well-being, often affecting how we think, feel and act.

Mental health status determines how we handle stress, relate to others and make choices. Because it can affect all areas of life, one’s mental health status is important at every stage of life, from childhood and adolescence through adulthood. Many factors contribute to mental health problems, including but not limited to: biologPage 18

•

ical factors, such as genes or brain chemistry, life experiences, such as trauma or abuse, and family history of mental health problems.

Individuals who suffer from a mental illness can have considerable difficulty with their thinking, their mood or their behavior. This suffering goes beyond experiencing normal stress and sadness. It may cause such significant distress that it impairs functioning, making it difficult to cope with the demands of everyday

life such as work and maintaining relationships. Similar to a physical illness, when a mental illness is not recognized and treated, it can worsen and may last for an unnecessarily long time.

It has been found that most mental illness disorders have their roots in childhood and youth. Mental health issues among young people — including both diagnosable disorders and other problem behaviors, such as early drug or alcohol use, antisocial

IN GOOD HEALTH – Rochester / Genesee Valley Healthcare Newspaper • December 2018

the sympathetic nervous system. The parasympathetic nervous system is responsible for rest and digestion in the body and the sympathetic nervous system is responsible for the stress inducing “fight or flight” response. By stimulating the parasympathetic nervous system and controlling the sympathetic nervous system dogs reduce stress in their owners.

Stein is personally very aware of this reduced stress response when he is around his 10-year-old Labrador retriever, Daisy. He fondly referred to her as, “the quiet calming agent diverting my attention to all that is good in life and away from the stress or conflicts that are giving me headaches. I know without doing the experiments that spending time with her lowers my blood pressure, relieves my stress, and counters my tendency to feel depressed or anxious.”

Physician Stein’s prescription for a happier healthy life is plenty of “Vitamin C for canine.” or aggressive behavior and violence — have enormous personal, family and societal costs. Unfortunately, mental health disorders among young people interfere with their ability to accomplish normal developmental tasks, such as establishing healthy interpersonal relationships, succeeding in school, and transitioning into the workforce.

If a loved one is exhibiting signs of mental illness, have an open, honest discussion. You may not be able to force someone to get professional care, but you can offer support, and assist in finding a qualified mental health provider. You may even be able to go along to the appointment showing your commitment to your loved one’s wellbeing.

Mary Zagari K. MacLeod, Ph.D., LCSW-R, CGP, ACS, is the new director of behavioral health at Oak Orchard Health, headquartered in Brockport.

Are you unable to work because of a severe impairment or illness? I have over 20 years experience successfully obtaining

Social Security Disability/SSI

CALL

By Jim Miller

How to Get Veterans’ Funeral and Burial Benefits Dear Savvy Senior, Does the VA provide any special burial benefits to old veterans? My dad, who has late-stage Parkinson’s disease, served during the Vietnam War in the 1960s.

Only Child Dear Only, Most U.S. veterans are eligible for burial and memorial benefits through the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) National Cemetery Administration. Veterans who were discharged under conditions other than dishonorable are eligible. To verify your dad’s discharge, you’ll need a copy of his DD Form 214 “Certificate of Release or Discharge from Active Duty,” which you can request online at Archives.gov/ veterans.

Here’s a rundown of some of the different benefits that are available to veterans that die a nonservice-related death.

National Cemetery Benefits If your dad is eligible, and would like to be buried in one of the 136 national or 111 grant-funded state and tribal VA cemeteries (see www. cem.va.gov/cem/cems/listcem.asp for a list), the VA provides a host of benefits, at no cost to the family, including: a gravesite; opening and closing of the grave; perpetual gravesite care; a government headstone or marker; a United States burial flag that can be used to drape the casket or accompany the urn (after the funeral service; the flag is given to the next-of-kin as a keepsake); and a presidential memorial certificate.

National cemetery burial benefits are also available to spouses and dependents of veterans.

If your dad is cremated, his remains will be buried or inurned in the same manner as casketed remains.

Funeral or cremation arrangements and costs are not, however, taken care of by the VA. They are the responsibility of the veteran’s family, but some veteran’s survivors are eligible for burial allowances, which are explained below.

If you’re interested in this option, the VA offers a preneed burial eligibility determination program at www.cem.va.gov/pre-need or call the National Cemetery Scheduling Office at 800-535-1117.

Private Cemetery Benefits If your father is going to be buried in a private cemetery, the benefits available include a free government headstone or marker, or a medallion that can be affixed to an existing privately purchased headstone or marker; a burial flag; and a Presidential memorial certificate.

Funeral or cremation arrangements and costs are again the responsibility of the family (some burial allowances may be available), and there are no benefits offered to spouses and dependents that are buried in private cemeteries.

Military Funeral Honors Another popular benefit available to all eligible veterans buried in either a national or private cemetery is a military funeral honors ceremony. This includes an honor guard detail of at least two uniformed military persons, folding and presenting the U.S. burial flag to the veteran’s survivors, and the playing of “Taps” by a bugler or an electronic recording.

The funeral provider you choose will be able to assist you with all VA burial requests. Depending on what you want, certain forms may need to be completed which are always better to be done in advance.

For a complete rundown of burial and memorial benefits, eligibility details and required forms, visit www.cem.va.gov or call 800827-1000.

Burial Allowances In addition to the burial benefits, some veteran’s survivors may also qualify for a $300 burial allowance (or $780 if hospitalized by VA at time of death) and $780 for a plot, to those who choose to be buried in a private cemetery. To find out if your dad is eligible, see Benefits.va.gov/ benefits/factsheets/burials/burial. pdf.

To apply for burial allowances, you’ll need to fill out VA Form 21P530 “Application for Burial Benefits.”

You need to attach a copy of your dad’s discharge document (DD 214 or equivalent), death certificate, funeral and burial bills. They should show that you have paid them in full. You may download the form at VA.gov/vaforms.

Send your senior questions to: Savvy Senior, P.O. Box 5443, Norman, OK 73070, or visit SavvySenior. org. Jim Miller is a contributor to the NBC Today show and author of “The Savvy Senior” book.

December 2018 •

Mary Perry,

for those deserving benefits. For best results, let me represent you.

ADR

585-385-6855 | www.disabilityrep.com 57 Monroe Avenue - Suite C - Pittsford, NY 14534 You live with atopic dermatitis… But Do You Know What It Is? IT’S TIME TO LEARN MORE ABOUT YOUR MODERATE-TO-SEVERE ATOPIC DERMATITIS AND A POTENTIAL TREATMENT OPTION

Attend a FREE educational event!

When: Wednesday, December 5, 2018 Registration: 6:00 PM

Where: Hyatt Regency Rochester 125 E. Main Street Rochester, NY 14604

Featuring: Mary Anne Elder, NP Derm & an actual patient living with atopic dermatitis

Call 1-844-387-4936, option 5 to register!

Complimentary parking and light fare provided. Family, caregivers, and those interested in learning about moderate-to-severe atopic dermatitis are welcome.

© 2018 Sanofi and Regeneron Pharmaceuticals, Inc. All Rights Reserved.

US-DAD-14762 Last Update: 08/2018

Age 3:

Despite my being camera shy, Dad loved taking my picture.

Age 19:

Age 16:

Dad patiently taught me how to drive a stick shift.

Dad walked me down the aisle.

Age 64:

So happy to be there for Dad as he moved to his own new apartment!

With maintenance free living in one of our spacious apartments, you'll find you have even more time to enjoy life's special moments.

IN GOOD HEALTH – Rochester / Genesee Valley Healthcare Newspaper

•

Page 19

Ask St. Ann’s

Ask The Social

By Katie Gleason

Can Everyday Foods Affect My Medications?

E

ating nutritious foods every day is a well-known prescription for maintaining health and happiness at any age. If you take medications, though, be sure to choose foods that help you, not hurt you.

Food/drug interactions occur when what you eat affects how your body absorbs your medication. These interactions reduce the effectiveness of your prescription or produce unwanted side effects.

A partial listing of potentially harmful food and prescription drug combinations from the registered dietitians at St. Ann’s Community includes: • Grapefruit juice. A chemical compound (called furanocoumarins) in grapefruit juice does interfere with antihistamines, blood pressure drugs, thyroid replacement drugs, birth control, stomach acid-blocking drugs, and the cough suppressant dextromethorphan. Avoid or significantly reduce how much of it you drink.

• Green leafy vegetables. Any significant or sudden increase or decrease in your intake of green leafy vegetables high in Vitamin K can interfere with the clotting ability of blood-thinners. If you ate greens regularly before taking a blood thinner, you could safely consume that amount afterward. The key is to eat your greens in consistent amounts.

• Natural black licorice. Glycyrrhiza, found in natural black licorice, depletes your body of potassium and causes it to retain sodium. Avoid this treat if you take medications for heart failure, high blood pressure, or blood thinners.

• Salt substitutes. Most salt substitutes replace sodium with potassium, so use them sparingly with digoxin for heart failure or ACE inhibitors for high blood pressure.

Better yet, moderate use of real salt is the best option for your body.

• Tyramine-rich foods. Chocolate, aged and mature cheeses, smoked and aged meats, hot dogs, processed lunch meats, fermented soy products and draft beers are just a few of the foods that interfere with the breakdown of tyramine, an amino acid that increases your blood pressure. Avoid them if you take a monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI) for depression or drugs for

Seniors often need to eat more, not less When an older person is already a picky or light eater, reducing food choices can give rise to new health problems, including decreased muscle mass, loss of balance and falls.

Limiting protein-rich foods can make their skin more prone to scrapes and injuries and lead to infections.

Registered dietitians can help seniors thrive. A team of nine at St. Ann’s Community regularly assesses the nutritional status of the residents.

This expertise ensures individuals receive the nourishment they need without compromising their medications or health.

Make sure the foods you love, love you To identify and avoid potential food interactions, talk with your doctor about what you like to eat and drink. Be sure to include herbal supplements and teas, too. Chances are your doctor can prescribe a medication that won’t dramatically impact your diet.

Keep an open dialog with your doctor about food interactions as your medications and nutritional requirements change. You may be surprised to find foods that were once off-limits may be back on the menu!

For more information about food interactions, talk to your pharmacist and visit online resources like www. eatright.org.

Katie Gleason is nutrition services manager at St. Ann’s Community.

She is registered dietitian nutritionist and certified dietitian nutritionist.

Contact her at kgleason@MyStAnns.com or 585697-6356, or visit www.stannscommunity.com.

Get In Good Health in the mail. In Good Health brings news items you won’t find in any other publication. Subscribe today

IN GOOD HEALTH , Rochester Healthcare Newspaper Name ________________________________________ Address_______________________________________ City / State / Zip________________________________

In Good Health

P.O. Box 525, Victor, NY 14564

From the Social Security District Office

Parkinson’s disease.

Not a Subscriber?

Clip and Mail w/ your check to:

Security Office

21.00 1 year $ 35.00 2 years

$

Beware of Scammers Pretending To Be From Social Security

I

n the digital age, frauds and scams are an unfortunate part of doing business online. During the holiday season, Social Security has traditionally seen a spike in phishing scams, and we want to protect you as best we can.

We urge you to always be cautious and to avoid providing sensitive information such as your Social Security number (SSN) or bank account information to unknown individuals over the phone or internet. If you receive a call and aren’t expecting one, you must be extra careful.

You can always get the caller’s information, hang up, and — if you do need more clarification — contact the official phone number of the business or agency that the caller claims to represent. Never reveal personal data to a stranger who called you.

Please take note: there’s a scam going around right now. You might receive a call from someone claiming to be from Social Security or another agency. Calls can even display the 1-800-772-1213, Social Security’s national customer service number, as the incoming number on your caller ID. In some cases, the caller states that Social Security does not have all of your personal information, such as your Social Security number, on file. Other callers claim Social Security needs additional information so the agency can increase your benefit payment or that Social Security will terminate your benefits if they do not confirm your information. This

appears to be a widespread issue, as reports have come from people across the country. These calls are not from Social Security.

Callers sometimes state that your Social Security number is at risk of being deactivated or deleted. The caller then asks you to provide a phone number to resolve the issue. People should be aware the scheme’s details may vary; however, you should avoid engaging with the caller or calling the number provided, as the caller might attempt to acquire personal information.

Social Security employees occasionally contact people by telephone for customer-service purposes. In only a few special situations, such as when you have business pending with us, a Social Security employee may request the person confirm personal information over the phone.

Social Security employees will never threaten you or promise a Social Security benefit approval or increase in exchange for information.

In those cases, the call is fraudulent, and you should just hang up. If you receive these calls, please report the information to the Office of the Inspector General at 1-800-269-0271 or online at oig.ssa.gov/report.

Remember, only call official phone numbers and use secured websites of the agencies and businesses you know are correct. Protecting your information is an important part of Social Security’s mission to secure today and tomorrow.

Is Your Medicine Safe at Home?

Only YOU Can Secure Your Rx! Help us prevent addiction, accidental poisoning & protect the environment!

MONITOR– count your medication regularly

SECURE– lock up any medication you do not want anyone to access

DISPOSE– drop off any unwanted/unused and expired medication to your local disposal site

Medication Drop Box Locations: Bristol: Town Hall

Farmington: State Troopers

Canandaigua: FLCC (Keuka Wing) The Medicine Shoppe Ontario County DMV Office Canandaigua Police Dept.

Thompson Hospital (lobby) Mental Health Clinic

Clifton Springs: Hospital (Lobby)

Geneva: Police Station North Street Pharmacy Richmond: Town Hall CVS Pharmacy

East Bloomfield: Town Hall Manchester/Shortsville: Red Jacket Pharmacy Naples: Village Hall Phelps: Community Center Rushville: Village Hall

Victor: Meade Square Pharmacy Questions, please call us at 585-396-4554.

Page 20

•

IN GOOD HEALTH – Rochester / Genesee Valley Healthcare Newspaper • December 2018

H ealth News Excellus earns highest accreditation for quality Excellus BlueCross BlueShield’s commercial plans have received the highest accreditation status available, a rating of “excellent,” from the National Committee for Quality Assurance. The rating applies to Excellus BlueCross BlueShield’s HMO, point of service, preferred provider organization and exclusive provider organization plans. Excellus BCBS’s commercial plans were previously rated “commendable.”

NCQA is a nationally recognized evaluation that purchasers, regulators and consumers can use to assess health plans. NCQA’s Health Plan Accreditation evaluates how well a health plan manages all parts of its delivery system — physicians, hospitals, other providers and administrative services — in order to continuously improve the quality of care and services provided to its members. An excellent accreditation is awarded to health plans for service and clinical quality that meet or exceed NCQA’s rigorous requirements for consumer protection and quality improvement.

“The NCQA seal of excellence affirms that our members are receiving a high quality of care,” said Christopher Booth, chief executive officer, Excellus BlueCross BlueShield. “It not only reflects the hard work and dedication of our employees, but also reflects the quality of our community’s doctors and hospitals.”

Health plans that earn an excellent accreditation must also achieve NCQA’s Healthcare Effectiveness Data and Information Set (HEDIS) and Consumer Assessment of Healthcare Providers and Systems (CAHPS) results that are in the highest range of national performance.

HEDIS is the most widely used performance measurement tool in health care.

Podiatry clinic opens at St. Ann’s Community A new podiatry clinic at St. Ann’s Community is open to the public for the treatment of acute and chronic diseases of the foot.

Located on St. Ann’s Irondequoit campus, the clinic operates on an out-patient basis, treating a variety of complex medical Ellie and surgical foot pathologies.

“As podiatric foot and ankle surgeons, we can medically and surgically treat a variety of foot and ankle illnesses,” says podiatrist John Ellie, head of St. Ann’s Podiatry Clinic.

“We focus on acute and chronic diseases of the foot to minimize transfers to the emergency department and eliminate unnecessary hospital stays for our patients.”

The clinic provides services in the areas of:

bunions and hammertoes, neuromas and heel pain; fungal nails and ingrown nails; diabetic foot care and infections; reconstructive foot and ankle surgery; acute and chronic conditions including sprains and strains; and flatfoot conditions including prescriptions for orthotics/inserts.

The clinic is located inside the Wound Healing Center Entrance on St. Ann’s Irondequoit campus, 1500 Portland Avenue.

A native of Greece, Monroe County, Ellie is a board-certified podiatrist with extensive training in foot and ankle surgery. He is a magna cum laude graduate of Pace University in New York City and attended the New York College of Podiatric Medicine. He completed his residency in foot and ankle surgery at SUNY Downstate Medical Center in Brooklyn and was chief resident in his final year.

RRH recognized as ‘Most Wired Health Systems’ The College of Healthcare Information Management Executives (CHIME) has named Rochester Regional Health one of healthcare’s most wired for 2018. The distinction is based on the system’s ability to adopt, implement and apply new technology to improve healthcare outcomes.

This year’s list of 254 health systems from around the world includes 21 based in New York state.

Rochester Regional Health is the only system based in Western New York to make the list.

“We are pleased that Rochester Regional Health was selected as one of Healthcare’s Most Wired organizations, and we look forward to keeping pace with healthcare technology to ensure that we remain at the forefront of patient care,” said John Glynn, chief information officer for Rochester Regional Health.

Organizations get named to the Most Wired list based on the results of the Most Wired Survey — an industry-standard benchmark study designed to measure IT adoption in hospitals and health systems. The survey is a useful tool for hospital and health system leaders as they identify areas where they can continue to improve their use of technology. The ultimate goal of the survey and the Most Wired list is to find the latest best practices and raise the bar for healthcare IT around the world.

Organizations are evaluated in two key areas in the survey: using technology to improve the actual delivery of healthcare, and supporting the improvement of population health management and value-based care.

‘Culinary Fusion’ raises $6,100 for Thompson ICU Expansion Culinary Fusion, an Oct. 1 fundraiser for UR Medicine Thompson Hospital, netted $6,100 in proceeds for a new intensive care unit (ICU) and pulmonary medicine clinic, exDecember 2018 •

Gerard J. Rooney, president, St. John Fisher College; Dianne Cooney Miner, dean, Wegmans School of Nursing; and Ann Costello, executive director, Golisano Foundation

Gift to Create Golisano Institute for Developmental Disability Nursing

S

t. John Fisher College, Tom Golisano and the Golisano Foundation recently announced the creation of the Golisano Institute for Developmental Disability Nursing thanks to a $5.8 million gift, $5 million from Tom Golisano and $800,000 from the Golisano Foundation. The institute will be integrated into Fisher’s Wegmans School of Nursing and is designed to transform the health care and support of individuals with developmental disabilities. It will be the first institute of its kind in the country, and will have local, national, and international impact.

The Golisano Institute will be led by Dianne Cooney Miner, founding dean of the Wegmans School of Nursing, the largest enroller of nursing and mental health counseling students in the region.

The school—which consistently achieves rankings as a top nursing program in the region, state and nation—will draw upon relationships with professional nursing associations, and partnerships with international nursing schools such as the Waterford Institute of Technology in Waterford, Ireland. It will also capitalize on the network of Golisano Children’s Hospitals and community health centers as well as the Foundation’s collaboration with Special Olympics Health to extend the Institute’s reach.

“We are honored to partner with the Golisano Foundation in advancing Tom’s vision for both the Rochester community and for individuals with developmental disabilities,” said President Rooney. “This

vital work and education will have an impact far beyond Rochester, and we are proud to lead the Golisano Institute.”

Ongoing research conducted by the Special Olympics has revealed that there are significant health disparities between individuals with developmental disabilities and the general population. The study revealed that a greater number of individuals with developmental disabilities face health issues such as tooth decay, bone deformation, and obesity. Some of those issues go untreated or undiagnosed due to the limited availability of health care services, leading to even more serious and often life-threatening conditions. The research also points to the fact that many health care providers are inadequately trained or not trained at all to provide care and support to this population. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, one of the barriers facing individuals with developmental disabilities is their provider’s lack of knowledge and understanding of their unique needs and challenges.

“The creation of the Golisano Institute is a major step forward in filling the gaps in access to care and ensuring inclusive health for individuals with developmental disabilities,” said Cooney Miner. “There is a real need to develop advocacy leaders in development disability health care to encourage dialogue and promote positive change to ensure that this population receives the quality of life that they deserve.”

pected to open at Thompson in 2020.

With grazing stations featuring a number of local establishments, the event was held at Thompson’s retirement community, Ferris Hills at West Lake in Canandaigua. It also included a silent auction. Proceeds from both ticket sales and the auction will help Thompson reach its goal of raising $11.5 million to fund the new

ICU and pulmonary medicine clinic.

Going from the current seven ICU beds to 12 will enable Thompson to have full-time coverage from intensivists — physicians specially trained in the care and management of critical care patients. In addition, the hospital will send fewer patients to Rochester due to limited capacity, caring for an additional 250 to 330

IN GOOD HEALTH – Rochester / Genesee Valley Healthcare Newspaper

•

Page 21

7th Generation Medical Acupuncture Anti-inflammatory Therapy for Neuropathy, Pain, Numbness, Tingling Diabetes Care and Cancer Supportive Care www.AcupunctureCenterUSA.com Anti-Inflammatory Acupuncture Therapy: More than Pain Management Relieve Side Effects of Steroidal and Non-steroidal Anti-inflammatory Drugs, & More Inflammation Builds Roots of Most Diseases, 7th Generation Medical Acupuncture Builds Host Immunity and Power Philosophy of Care: Treat the Roots of Diseases Rui Wang, MD of China, L.AC. Experienced in both Western Medicine & Traditional Chinese Medicine Experienced in both Academic & Private Practice Experienced in both Basic Science & Clinical Science Experienced in Cancer Research at Major Medical Centers in USA

CLINICALLY PROVEN TO BE SAFE AND EFFECTIVE Acupuncture is a general practice alternative medicine, it can help a wide range of health problems at different extents.

Ask for professional, confidential, personalized evaluation / consultation appointment before starting any treatment

Acu-Care Acupuncture Center 7th Generation Rui Wang, LLC

Clinton Crossings Medical Center

Building C, Suite 105, 919 Westfall Road, Rochester, NY 14618

Tel1: 585-358-6186; Tel2: 585-471-8118; Tel3: 315-329-7666; Tel4: 315-378-5556

Ancient Wisdom Integrated with Modern Medicine

Page 22

•

LIFE CHANGING MEDICINE, MOVING MEDICINE FORWARD

IN GOOD HEALTH – Rochester / Genesee Valley Healthcare Newspaper • December 2018

H ealth News critically ill patients annually.

A new pulmonary clinic on the ground floor of the new ICU — triple the size of Thompson’s current pulmonary clinic in order to accommodate higher patient volumes — will see patients suffering from chronic lung conditions such as asthma, emphysema, congestive obstructive pulmonary disorder (COPD) and other diseases.

“We are so grateful to everyone who came together for Culinary Fusion in support of our new ICU and pulmonary medicine clinic that will allow our hospital to provide pulmonary and critical care, close to home,” said Anita Pietropaolo, director of the F.F. Thompson Foundation.

For more information about Thompson’s ICU project and its $11.5 million capital campaign, visit www.

ThompsonHealth.com/OurICU.

Lifetime Benefit Solutions has new president Lori Florack has been named president of Lifetime Benefit Solu tions, a full-service, third-party benefits administrator that employs 170 people in Rochester, Syracuse and Buffalo and serves 4,000 corporate customers in Upstate New Florack York.

Florack succeeds Tom Cauthorn, who retired earlier this year.

For the past eight years, Florack worked at Excellus BlueCross BlueShield, where she most recently served as human resources leader.

Florack also led the sales training and talent management teams. Prior to joining Excellus BCBS, she spent several years working in sales in New York City and Upstate New York.

After graduating from the State University of New York at Fredonia, Florack received a Master of Science degree from Baruch College of the City University of New York.

Florack serves on the board of the Rochester Education Foundation, and volunteers with the Literacy Volunteers of Rochester and the United Way of Greater Rochester. She also serves as a community mentor for the National Human Resources Association.

In 2014, Florack received “Rochester’s Up and Coming Businesswoman” award from the Rochester Women’s Network.

Friendly Home shares money with staff For the fifth time, Friendly Home is sharing with its employees $60,000 it received by the New York State Department of Health in recognition of the home’s outstanding performance in providing residents with care of the highest quality.

The DOH’s Quality of Care

Incentive Program provides performance payment awards to top-rated nursing homes based on quality, compliance and efficiency measures.

In turn, Friendly Home will once again share the program’s monetary award with its employees. In total over five years, Friendly Home has shared with its staff awards exceeding $200,000.

“We are so proud of and thankful for our staff at Friendly Home for their dedication to providing our members with outstanding care and service,” said Glen Cooper, president and CEO of Friendly Senior Living. “We couldn’t achieve excellent quality outcomes without the hard work and commitment our entire team demonstrates every day. To my knowledge, we are the only nursing home in the state that has shared this award with our employees each time we have received it, and they couldn’t be more deserving.”

The funding to pay these rewards is derived from a Medicaid-rate reduction for all nursing homes in the state.

Friendly Home has placed in the DOH Quality Initiative Program’s top quintile since the program’s inception five years ago, an accomplishment earned by less than 5 percent of the more than 500 nursing homes in New York. Additionally, Friendly Home recently received a five-star rating — the highest possible — from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid.

“We are very pleased to share this recognition with our employees, who are at the heart of the compassionate care our members receive every day,” Cooper said. “Friendly Home’s outstanding quality ratings reflect a top-notch staff dedicated to living our values of friendship, teamwork, excellence, compassion, customer focus and integrity.”

Senior runner speaks at Mended Hearts Gates heart patient and senior runner Bruce Rychwalski, 69, was the guest speaker at the Mended Hearts of Greater Rochester (Chapter 050) meeting Oct. 15, at the Knights of Columbus Center in Webster.

Rychwalski Rychwalski, a heart survivor and fitness advocate, has participated in 313 5K events since experiencing a life-threatening ventricular tachycardia and being diagnosed with arrhythmogenic right ventricular cardiomyopathy (ARVC) in 2011. ARVC is a genetic, heritable, progressive heart condition in which the muscle of the right ventricle is replaced by fat and fibrosis, which causes abnormal heart rhythms.

After describing his cardiac medical history, Rychwalski a member of The Greater Rochester Track Club, stated the importance of keeping acDecember 2018 •

tive and continuing to exercise after a medical diagnosis or medical procedure. He told the meeting attendees that his motto was “If your rest, you rust.” He also quipped that “the only way I won’t jog or walk tomorrow is if I wake up and I’m dead!”

He concluded his talk with the hope that he had encouraged and motivated the members of his audience not to lead sedentary lives.

Mended Hearts is a national and community-based nonprofit organization that offers the gift of hope to heart disease patients, their families and caregivers. To offer this hope Mended Hearts provides a variety of programs. Their mission is dedicated to “Inspiring hope and improving the quality of life for heart patients and their families through ongoing peer-to-peer support”. The local community chapters help people understand that there can be a rich, rewarding life after heart disease diagnosis. Members listen, share their experiences and volunteer to talk to other heart patients about what they may face including lifestyle changes, depression, recovery, and treatment.

For more information about Mended Hearts go to www.mendedhearts.org.

Physical therapy practice in Greece expands

Physical Therapy recently held a grand re-opening to unveil its newly expanded 10,500-sq.-ft. facility at 515 Long Pond Road, Greece.

What began as a single person operation in a 1700-sq.-ft. office space has grown, tripling its size. Along with additional space, the Lattimore North Greece Physical Therapy clinic also offers patients state-of-the-art equipment.

“I will always give credit to the most wonderful and hard-working staff anyone could ask for,” said Tim Anne, co-owner of the practice.

“Together we consistently provide a family-like atmosphere giving each patient a unique experience that can’t be found anywhere else. Patients will always feel welcome from the time they walk in until the time they leave our office.”

John Shuman, founding partner of the Lattimore PT Network, said, “Cindy and I could not be prouder of the job Tim and his team have done over the past 12 years in North Greece. This new clinic is amazing and we look forward to providing an outstanding experience for the community.”

Lattimore Physical Therapy is based throughout Monroe, Livingston, Ontario and Yates counties and provides our clients with physical therapy, aquatic therapy and fitness services centers.

Lattimore of North Greece

J

Jewish Senior Life launches JSL Connect app

ewish Senior Life announces that it has launched JSL Connect, a mobile application that will make it easier for residents and family members to be connected to important information, enhancing care and quality of life.

JSL Connect offers open app functionality, with access to calendars of events, campus news, points of interest around the campus and community resources for senior care.

Jewish Senior Life chose to invest in the in-house creation of a custom application versus using an external “off the shelf” product to ensure the highest security, most customized functionality and an ability to scale for future enhancements.

Additional private access is available within the app for family members of long-term care residents. Here they can access their loved ones’ daily schedules and activities, communicate with the care team and review health updates, all through a secure, private portal.

The Summit at Brighton’s independent living residents also will have the option to use the mobile app to access information.

“We realize the importance of communications and creating new, convenient ways for residents, families and care teams to be connected.

JSL Connect provides a private and customized experience, where family members can have a virtual line of sight into how their loved ones are doing through daily attendance, activity and care updates,” said Mike King, president and CEO of Jewish Senior Life. “By putting this information in the palms of their hands, we hope that people will feel even more connected to their loved one’s care and be assured of their loved one’s overall quality of life.”

JSL Connect is free to download and is compatible with iOS and Android devices. To learn more or download the app, please visit https://jewishseniorlife.org/ jsl-connect-mobile-app/.

IN GOOD HEALTH – Rochester / Genesee Valley Healthcare Newspaper

•

Page 23

Rocker? Yes, I am.

Some people like rocking chairs, others like rock concerts. And that’s great. We encourage individuality.

It's what makes St. Ann's Community a place that's full of life, where you can experience the best in senior living and health care.

Caring for the Most Important People on Earth StAnnsCommunity.com | 585.697.6000 Page 24

•

IN GOOD HEALTH – Rochester / Genesee Valley Healthcare Newspaper • December 2018