IGH Rochester #166 June 19

PRICELESS

AIDS/HIV

GVHEALTHNEWS.COM

Dr. Bill Valenti, the pioneer in the fight against AIDS/HIV in Rochester, excited with new research to cure disease but concerned with new generation that didn’t live through the ‘dark days’ of AIDS epidemic

JUNE 2019 • ISSUE 166

Great Summer Food P. 14

When to Choose a Medical Spa

Spa and medical spa: what’s the difference? And what to consider when selecting a medical spa

Do Doctors Give Better Care in the Morning?

Ensuring No One is Left Behind The Long-Term Care Benefit Many Veterans Are Missing Out On

A volunteer agency in Rochester — No One Left Behind — has helped resettle the families of 93 individuals who have served as interpreters for the United States’ operations in Iraq and Afghanistan. P. 12

‘My worst sunburn ever was from…’

Can medical marijuana help kids with autism?

Story on p.13

Story on p.8

Do Doctors Give Better Care in the Morning?

M any people do their best work in the morning, and new research suggests the same may hold true for doctors.

The study, of nearly 53,000 primary care patients, found that doctors were more likely to order cancer screenings for patients seen early in the day, versus late afternoon.

During 8 a.m. appointments, doctors ordered breast cancer screenings for 64% of women who were eligible for them. That figure declined over the next few hours, rebounded around lunchtime, then fell again as the afternoon wore on.

During 5 p.m. appointments, doctors ordered screening for just under 48% of eligible patients.

A similar pattern was seen with colon cancer screening. About 36% of patients with 8 a.m. appointments received a screening order, versus only 23% of those with 5 p.m. appointments.

What’s going on? Senior researcher Mitesh Patel, a physicial, speculated on one explanation: As the day goes on, doctors often fall behind schedule, and may run out of time for cancer screening discussions.

There’s “a lot to get done” during a standard appointment, Patel noted — from routine health checks, to flu shots, to whatever concerns the patient is bringing up.

“So the doctor might think, ‘I have limited time. I’ll talk about this [screening test] the next time,’” said Patel, an assistant professor of medicine at the University of Pennsylvania.

It’s also possible “decision fa-

tigue” is a factor, he said.

If a doctor has spent much of the day talking to patients about cancer screening — and often hearing “no” — he or she might let it slide by day’s end.

“This is a reminder that doctors are human, too,” said physician Jeffrey Linder, a professor of medicine at Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine in Chicago.

“They’re laboring under the same psychological and fatigue constraints as everyone else.”

Linder wrote an editorial accompanying the study, published May 10 in the journal JAMA Network Open.

“Not everyone can get an 8 a.m. appointment,” Linder pointed out.

But, he said, it’s good for doctors and patients to be aware that time of day might affect their care.

The study is not the first to suggest doctors practice differently as the day wears on.

In an earlier study, Patel’s team found the pattern held true with flu shots: Patients seen late in the day were less likely to get them.

Other researchers have found that toward the end of the day, primary care doctors are more likely to inappropriately prescribe antibiotics or opioid painkillers.

It’s possible, Patel said, that patients are also in a rush toward day’s end, or dealing with their own decision fatigue.

“At the end of a workday,” he said, “you might not want to have a conversation about cancer screening.”

The findings are based on

records from patients in the University of Pennsylvania health system who had primary care appointments between 2014 and 2016. Over 19,000 were eligible for breast cancer screening, while over 33,000 were eligible for colon cancer screening.

Patel and his team looked at whether patients received a screening order at their first appointment during the study period and whether they actually went for screening over the next year.

They found that patients with late-day appointments were sub-

Caring for the Most Important People on Earth.

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IN GOOD HEALTH – Rochester / Genesee Valley Healthcare Newspaper • June 2019

stantially less likely to be screened: One-third of women with an 8 a.m. appointment underwent breast cancer screening in the next year, versus 18% of those with 5 p.m. appointments. The figures for colon cancer screening were 28% and 18%, respectively.

What to do? Patel said there’s a “great opportunity” for technology to help. Patients’ electronic health records could be cued to remind doctors to order cancer screenings, for example.

June 2019 •

IN GOOD HEALTH – Rochester / Genesee Valley Healthcare Newspaper

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CALENDAR of

HEALTH EVENTS

June 4

HLAA to focus on employment, hearing aids and noise

Hearing Loss Association of America Rochester Chapter invites anyone interested in hearing loss to any or all of several events on Tuesday, June 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 experienced hearing aid users can share their experiences, questions, and hearing loss journeys in an informal round table facilitated by retired audiologist and hearing aid user Joseph Kozelsky.

• 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Parish Hall.

Program begins at noon. “Hearing Aids and Noise: A Visual Explanation Of The Challenges And Some Solutions” with James Feuerstein, Ph.D. Hearing aid users often find that they hear well in quiet but continue to struggle in background noise. Using visual examples, Feuerstein ex-

plains hearing and speech acoustics, demonstrating the impact of hearing loss on the ability to understand speech in quiet and noise.

Feuerstein is a professor emeritus of Nazareth College where he taught audiology and speech science courses for 25 years.

• 7 to 9 p.m. Parish Hall. Program begins at 8 p.m.

“Employment Help Through ACCES-VR” with Julia Rood, Adult Career and Continuing Education Services-Vocational Rehabilitation is the agency which provides a full range of employment services needed by persons with disabilities throughout their lives. ACCES’s vocational rehabilitation is targeted toward working age individuals with disabilities to prepare for, find and keep employment.

Senior vocational transition counselor Julia Rood explains procedures for contacting ACCES and its programs designed to help people with hearing loss either seeking employment or currently working.

She notes that they cover the cost of hearing aids for job seekers and/or workers.

For more information, view the organization’s website at hearinglossrochester.org or telephone 585

Rochester to Host National Convention of Hearing Loss Association of America

By Lynette M. Loomis

A

ll of us know someone with a hearing loss. According to the Mayo Clinic, hearing loss can occur due to age, prolonged exposure to loud noises (from ear buds and head phones, to firearms, industrial noise), disease, genetics, injury, illness or even medication.

The National Institutes of Health report that 15% of American adults (37.5 million) aged 18 and over report some trouble hearing and the proportion of adults with hearing increases with age. Hearing loss creates social isolation which can lead to social, occupational and educational isolation

in all age groups.

One of the very active national associations, the Hearing Loss Association of America (HLAA), is celebrating its 40-year anniversary with its HLAA2019 Convention, June 20-23, at the Rochester Riverside Convention Center. Hundreds of people from around the country are expected to attend.

The mission of HLAA is to “open the world of communication to people with hearing loss by providing information, education, support and advocacy.”

“Our primary purpose is to

266 7890.

June 8

Community invited to take part in Rose Walk

UR Medicine Thompson Health will host its 23rd Annual Rose Walk on Saturday, June 8, at Sonnenberg Gardens & Mansion State Historic Park, 151 Charlotte St. in Canandaigua.

The event will be held rain or shine, with registration beginning at 8 a.m.

Rose Walk participants can choose from a one or two-mile route through the gardens and surrounding historic neighborhood. A group walk will set off at 9 a.m., followed by a 10 a.m. ceremony. The event will also include kid-friendly activities, refreshments, local vendors and health screenings.

There is a minimum donation of $10 per participant, which includes refreshments and free admission to Sonnenberg. All walkers collecting $35 or more in pledges receive a free, commemorative T-shirt.

To register online or to download a form, visit www.ThompsonHealth. com/RoseWalk or call 585-396-6253.

June 11

NOLB president to discuss working with refugees

The Rochester Minimalists, a group of individuals questioning excessive consumerism, will host

educate ourselves, families, friends, coworkers, hearing health care providers and others about hearing health,” according to Barbara Kelley, HLAA’s executive director. “HLAA provides people with tools for selfhelp; sensitizes the general population about the special needs of people who have hearing loss; and promotes understanding of the nature, causes, complications, and treatments of hearing loss.”

According to Dan Brooks, president of the local HLAA Rochester Chapter, “Another important aspect of HLAA is advocacy to improve communication access for people with hearing loss. Advocacy efforts range from the grassroots, local level all the way up to Capitol Hill. We advocate for communication access in the workplace, hotels, schools, court systems, medical, and entertainment facilities. HLAA promotes new technology, medical research, and legislation.”

Highlights of the HLAA 2019 Convention: • Exhibit Hall and Trade Show — Free to the public. Just stop by the HLAA2019 registration at the Rochester Riverside Convention Center and get a free pass (no exhibit hours on June 23).

• Keynote at the opening session by Rebecca Alexander author of “Not Fade Away: A Memoir of Senses Lost and Found.”

• Research Symposium — “The Latest on Genetics and Hearing Loss,” special rate of $30 for those wanting to attend the symposium only.

• Educational workshops on interesting and current topics diPage 4

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vided into tracks: advocacy, lifestyle, hearing assistive technology, genetics and state/chapter development.

• Research Symposium: The latest on genetics and hearing loss, moderated by Thomas Friedman, Ph.D., chief of the Laboratory of Molecular Genetics, National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders (NIDCD), National Institutes of Health. The symposium will include presentations by ZhengYi Chen, Ph.D., Mass. Eye and Ear/ Harvard Medical School; physician Richard Smith, University of Iowa; and Patricia M. White, Ph.D., University of Rochester School of Medicine.

All sessions are communication accessible with the use of CART/ captioning and hearing loss. Sign language interpretation will be available for plenary sessions and by request for workshops. For questions, contact Amanda Watson at convention@hearingloss.org.

See more information and registration details at hearingloss.org/ convention.

To contact the local chapter of HLAA, visit hearinglossrochester. org or call 585 266 7890.

IN GOOD HEALTH – Rochester / Genesee Valley Healthcare Newspaper • June 2019

Ellen Smith, president of the No One Left Behind – Rochester Chapter, from 6-8 p.m. on Tuesday, June 11, at the Brighton Memorial Library, 2300 Elmwood Ave., Rochester. NOLB is a volunteer agency in Rochester that has helped resettle the families of 93 individuals who have served as interpreters for the United States’ operations in Iraq and Afghanistan. See news story in this issue of In Good Health.

June 14

Tournament to benefit cancer patients

The 14th annual Margery Coughlin Pawluk Invitational Golf Tournament is set for Friday, June 14, at Reservoir Creek Golf Course in Naples. With a four-person scramble format, the tournament stars with registration, brunch and driving range at 9:30 a.m., followed by an 11 a.m. shotgun start. At 4 p.m., there will be dinner with a cash bar, an awards presentation, live entertainment and a silent auction. The cost is $125 per golfer and includes golf, a cart, brunch, a prime rib and shrimp dinner, awards and tee gifts.

A “dinner only” registration is $45 per person.

The Joseph-Mitchell Insurance Agency is sponsoring a $10,000 holein-one contest during the tournament. Golfers will also meet PGA pro and champion long-distance driver Michael Michaelides and could win a golf trip to California’s Pebble Beach.

All proceeds benefit the Margery Coughlin Pawluk Cancer Patient Needs Fund, which helps patients of the Wilmot Cancer Institute’s Sands Center — on the Thompson Health campus in Canandaigua — with the unexpected costs of a long illness.

Register online at www.ThompsonHealth.com/MCPGolf.

June 16

Vegan society to host author Meg Hurley

The public is invited to attend the June meeting of the Rochester Area Vegan Society to hear Meg Hurley read from her new book, “The Dog Who Ate the Vegetable Garden & Helped Save the Planet.”

The book connects eating animals and humans’ treatment of them with environmental destruction, human illness, racism, sexism and other isms/phobias. Sweet, funny, sad, maddening, the book is a cross-genre work narrated by a real vegan dog that mixes wit, science, memoir and fiction, according to a news release.

The book is published by Guernica Editions, Canada’s oldest independent press.

The event will take place at 7 p.m., June 16, at Brighton Town Park Lodge, 777 Westfall Road, Rochester.

A vegan dinner will be served prior to the program at 5 p.m. Dinner is a vegan potluck (no meat, poultry, fish, eggs, dairy products or honey).

Please bring a dish with enough to serve a crowd, and a serving utensil; also bring a place setting for your own dinner. We can help non-vegetarians or others uncertain about how to make or bring a vegan dish; please call 234-8750 for help.

Free to RAVS members; $3 guest fee for non-members, plus bring a vegan dish.

For more information visit rochesterveg.org.

You’re Invited...

The Hearing Loss Association of America (HLAA) invites you to the HLAA2019 Convention where you will learn, meet others just like yourself, make new friends and have some fun in a communication accessible environment!

• Opening Session with keynote address by Rebecca Alexander,

author of Not Fade Away: A Memoir of Senses Lost and Found.

• Exhibit Hall is free and open to the public!

• Research Symposium,

The Latest on Genetics and Hearing Loss Just $30!

• Educational Workshops are fully accessible with hearing loops and CART/captioning.

• FUN! It’s not “all work and no play” at this convention with special events including Cheers to 40 Years! HLAA Anniversary Celebration and Awards Gala, the Roaring Hollywood-themed Get Acquainted Party, and the Night at the Museum trip to the George Eastman Museum.

Complimentary registration for veterans with hearing loss attending for the first time! For more information and to register go to

hearingloss.org/convention

New ROC Nursing and Rehabilitation Center provides skilled nursing and residential health care services to all, without regard to race, creed, color, national origin, disability, age, payer source or sexual orientation.

301.657.2248 hearingloss.org @HearingLossAssociation

PROOF @HLAA

We are conveniently located next to Rochester General Hospital at 1335 Portland Avenue in Rochester.

100 residents

Rochester Riverside Convention Center

@HearingLossAssociation

120 certified beds

Participates in Medicare and Medicaid

Our newest specialty is Respiratory Care. Call 585-544-4000 for Admission information.

The nursing home, located on Portland Avenue in Rochester, has had a troubled past.

Nursing and Rehabilitation Center provides skilled nursing and residential health care all, without regard to race, creed, color, national origin, disability, age, payer source or entation.

nveniently located next to Rochester General Hospital at 1335 Portland Avenue in

dents

fied beds

tes in Medicare Newand ROCMedicaid Nursing and Rehabilitation Center provides skilled nursing and residential health care services to all, without regard to race, creed, color, national origin, disability, age, payer st specialty is Respiratory Care.

Call 585-544-4000 source or sexual orientation.for Admission information.

ng home, located on Portland Avenue intoRochester, has had a troubled past.

We are conveniently located next Rochester Hospital 1335 Portland Avenue, Rochester,General NY 14621 Participates Medicare Fax: and Medicaid Tel: (585) in 544-4000 (585) 544-7274

Our newest specialty is Respiratory Care.

Call 585-544-4000 for Admission information.

1335 Portland Ave, Rochester, NY 14621

June 2019 •

IN GOOD HEALTH – Rochester / Genesee Valley Healthcare Newspaper

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Page 5

Meet

Your Doctor

By Chris Motola

William M. Valenti, M.D. Pioneer in the fight against AIDS/HIV in Rochester excited with new research to cure the disease but concerned with the new generation that didn’t live through the ‘dark days’ of AIDS epidemic Q: You’ve been involved in AIDS/ HIV treatment most of your life. In that time, the disease went from being poorly understood killer that we didn’t want to confront, to a bit of a panic, and eventually to a controllable disease you don’t hear about all that often. What was it like living and working through all of that?

A: I was thinking about this the other day, so I’ll see if I can encapsulate this for you. The first drug for HIV was the drug AZT, which was introduced in 1987. That’s six years into the epidemic. So we had no drugs that even came close to working until then. So there was a pretty difficult period of time — I call it the “dark days” when all we could do is treat the complications of HIV, but couldn’t treat the virus directly.

Starting in 1987, the drugs weren’t anywhere near as effective as they are today. They were fairly crude and had a variety of side effects that made them difficult for patients to take over the long haul.

The real breakthrough came around 1995 when a brand-new class of drugs was introduced, and we began to use a combination therapy of three drugs to keep the virus under control. That was the start of what we call the modern era of anti-retrovirals, where we began to see a decrease in deaths and [started seeing] people living longer and healthier. Since then a number of newer agents have been introduced in other classes of drugs, along with some other notable advances in treatment. One is that there is universal agreement that anyone with HIV should

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be started on these drugs as soon as possible. In the early days we often waited until the immune system was already damaged before we started the drugs; that was never our position here in Rochester. We always started the drugs whenever they were available, but now there’s universal agreement.

Q: What kind of impact does that have on outcomes?

A: We’ve learned that people who are started on treatments as quickly as possible reduce the amount of virus that’s in their blood and, if it gets below a certain level — we call that “undetectable” — those people don’t transmit the virus to other people. So the advances have given us a better understanding of how HIV is transmitted and also a better understanding of how to interrupt or stop transmission.

So,

‘Looking back to those dark days when most of my patients died, the idea that we’d be talking about eradicating HIV, curing it, or even just stopping its transmission, is incredible.’ now we have biomedical ways of stopping transmission from a HIV-positive person to an HIV-negative person who is at risk. They’re called pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP). One pill a day, taken as directed, prevents HIV transmission to HIV-negative people who are at risk of exposure. It’s been very effective.

Q: Is a cure on the horizon, or is that less relevant now?

A: It’s still very relevant. A lot of focus right now is on ending the transmission of HIV. There are several initiatives that speak to what we call EtE [End the Epidemic]. One is a New York state initiative by 2020, another is the United States initiative by 2030 and the Global World Health Organization’s by 2030. So the cure is moving at a different pace than these efforts to stop HIV transmission. But there are a few cases where people have been cured with stem cell transplant procedures. There are mutations in the cells of some people — fewer than 10 percent of the population — that block HIV. They kind of have their own vaccination. Their cells don’t allow HIV to enter, so they don’t get infected. So they’re trying to make that into something that’s widely available at a reasonable cost.

Now, a stem cell transplant is a very aggressive treatment that’s very hard on patients with a variety of side effects and complications. It’s not something that can be used widely.

But the science behind it may lead to new advances that lead to a widely available cure. That’s still a ways off though. There’s also research into developing a vaccine, which is moving ahead scientifically, but don’t have one that’s as effective as we’d like it to be.

Q: Back to preventing transmission. How long does the protection from pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) last?

A: Recommended dose is usually one pill per day. It’s very well-tolerated. TRUVADA is the name of the drug, but there are others in development, including ones that are a once-a-month injection. So the field is continuing to develop. We’re still building on the process that started in 1995.

IN GOOD HEALTH – Rochester / Genesee Valley Healthcare Newspaper • June 2019

Q: Tell us more about the initiatives underway.

A: So these anti-epidemic initiatives are, in the absence of a cure or vaccine and all of these programs, fundamentally the same.

They focus on widespread HIV testing of people everywhere and linking them to care.

The goal is to get them into care and keep them there, and bringing their

viral load down to the point where they can’t transmit to others. It also involves widespread use of PrEP to prevent HIV infection in HIV-negative people. So that’s the current state of things here. It’s an exciting time. Looking back to those dark days when most of my patients died, the idea that we’d be talking about eradicating HIV, curing it, or even just stopping its transmission is incredible. We were overwhelmed with sickness and death in those days, so it’s just really gratifying to watch this evolve.

Q: I want to touch on a social aspect. The epidemic hit the gay community particularly hard. Has broader acceptance of the community made it easier to do your job?

A: It’s helped in some ways. The thing is stigma today is very much a part of this. For example, the biggest at-risk group is men of color who have sex with men. Men who have sex with men are still at a higher risk.

But heterosexual women, especially heterosexual women of color, are also at risk. I don’t want to overplay that, though, because non-minority populations shouldn’t think it’s not their problem. It’s important to remember that this still is a sexual transmitted disease, and that carries some stigma. So part of the initiative is trying to find ways to destigmatize HIV. If you’re sexually active, you should pay attention to what’s going on: get tested and know your partners. So outreach comes in in trying to get people who aren’t in the system, who are often marginalized, into the system. We use meeting and hookup apps to get people information about testing and PrEP, so it’s a pretty targeted approach. We use fewer posters than we used to and more of a digital strategy. We’re still dealing with stigma, but what’s gone away is the fear of contagion because people aren’t dying of AIDS the way they were in the early days.

Ironically, that puts people between the ages of 13 up to around 40 at more risk, who never lived through dark days in the 80s and don’t take the disease as seriously.

We don’t want to use scare tactics, but it is still serious business, even today.

Lifelines Name: William M. Valenti, M.D. Position: Co-founder, chief of innovation and staff physician at Trillium Health Hometown: Rochester Education: Medical College of Wisconsin Affiliations: Highland Hospital; Strong Memorial Hospital Organizations: Medical Society of the State of New York; Governors Task Force to End the HIV Epidemic by 2020 Family: Partner of 20 years Hobbies: Trying to amuse his cat, gardening, traveling

Healthcare in a Minute

By George W. Chapman

Medicare For All...

T hanks in large part to Vermont senator and presidential candidate Bernie Sanders, “Medicare For All” — or universal healthcare — has become a hotly debated topic for the 2020 campaign.

Detractors and skeptics have focused primarily on its impact on taxes. But here’s some food for thought as the debate rages on. U.S. taxes on wages and income are relatively low when compared to countries that have their own versions of Medicare for all. Our system of taxation is a “progressive” system whereby wealthiest pay a higher percentage of their income in taxes than middleand lower-class taxpayers.

Unlike workers in England, France, Germany, Sweden, Finland and Canada, who are covered by universal care, American workers have health insurance contributions/ responsibilities deducted directly from their paychecks. Out-of-pocket

Healthcare Drug Fraud

The DOJ recently convicted Phillip Esformes, a Florida skilled nursing facility owner, of over $1.3 billion in fraudulent claims to Medicare and Medicaid. Patients were referred to his shabby facilities where they received inadequate or unnecessary treatment. He bribed both physicians and regulators in order to defraud.

He was convicted of conspiracy to defraud the U.S. government, kickbacks, money laundering and obstruction of justice. This is the largest healthcare fraud scheme to date.

In another fraud case, drug manufacturer Questor, recently acquired

by Mallinckrodt Pharmaceuticals, is accused of bribing physicians to unnecessarily prescribe “H.P. Acthar

expenses like deductibles and copays are in addition to what is deducted from pay. So, unlike taxes on wages, healthcare premiums are not progressive. The lowest and middle wage earners pay the same per month as the highest wage earners. Consequently, the lower your wage or income, the higher your healthcare premium as a percentage of income.

For example, a U.S. worker earning $43,000 a year pays an average of 37% in both taxes and health premiums. In high tax Finland, at the same earnings, a worker pays 23% in taxes which includes healthcare.

Moving toward a universal system would make healthcare costs more “progressive” for most Americans. No matter where you stand in this debate, healthcare “premiums” must be considered as a “tax” already being paid by the American worker.

Gel,” which treats infant seizure disorders, multiple sclerosis, and rheumatoid arthritis. The price per vial went from $40 in 2000 to $39,000 today. If you’re doing the math, that’s a 97,000% increase. Medicare alone has spent $2 billion on the gel over the last several years. This was a whistleblower case. The “fraud police” only get involved in these cases when they are fairly certain of success. If convicted, Mallinckrodt would have to pay back what was deceitfully billed plus another $5,500 to $11,000 per false claim.

Primary Care Spending Low

A basic tenet of healthcare is that primary care management improves overall health outcomes and lowers June 2019 •

costs. Researchers at the RAND Corporation studied 16 million Medicare claims and found that primary care accounts for less than 5% of total Medicare spending on physicians, hospitals/facilities, supplies and drugs. For the study, “primary care” included family practitioners, internists, gynecologists, geriatricians, nurse practitioners and physician assistants. Clearly, there is plenty of room for more investment in primary care. One way is to pay providers more for primary care services which would encourage more medical students to specialize in primary care.

Rural ERs Busier

Despite the fact that many rural hospitals are in danger of closing, visits to rural emergency departments are up over 50% in recent years, according to a study published in the Journal of the AMA. Visits to urban/suburban emergency departments for the same time are up just 5%. Non-Hispanic white patients 18-64, Medicaid beneficiaries and the uninsured lead the charge. Rural hospitals are increasingly becoming the safety net providers in their markets. Increased ER visits, especially in rural areas, can somewhat be attributed to the shortage of primary care physicians that is much more endemic to rural areas. With limited primary care options, rural residents are forced to use emergency rooms.

Chronic Diseases Costly

The annual cost of chronic diseases like heart disease, obesity, diabetes, cancer and Alzheimer’s is staggering. According to a report by Fitch Solutions, it is $3.8 trillion a year in direct and indirect costs. That is almost 20% of our GDP. And the cost could double in the next 30 years as baby boomers age and live longer.

Indirect costs include lost productivity, early retirement and premature mortality.

Telehealth Trending Up

Two of the necessary three factors for acceptance by physicians are in place and pushing the use of telemedicine. The first factor is the physician shortage. Telehealth gives overwhelmed physicians another tool to handle their heavy patient loads as not everyone has to be seen in the office. The second factor is consumer preference, especially among younger patients who are very comfortable using technology. The third factor for overall acceptance of telehealth by physicians is insurance payments. They are getting better, but not quite there yet. While the majority of specialties are just beginning to feel comfortable with telehealth, it has been incorporated into radiology, dermatology, psychiatry and cardiology for years. Medicare (CMS) is planning to boost telehealth benefits next year. Typically, commercial carriers follow suit. In the meantime, Humana is about to roll out a virtual primary care model called “On Hand” through the telehealth company “Doctor on Demand.” The plan offers members access to a dedicated primary care physician, urgent care and behavioral health through video visits, all at a relatively low monthly payment. Interested employers see this as a way to save money and reduce employee absences. There is no co-pay for the virtual visits.

George W. Chapman is a healthcare business 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

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Page 7

Live Alone & Thrive

By Gwenn Voelckers

Practical tips, advice and hope for those who live alone

Summer and Spirituality:

Uplifting Those Who Live Alone

T

he anticipation of warm summer evenings. New growth.

Budding possibilities. What better time to seize the moment and make vital changes — especially those healthy transformations we vowed to undertake six months ago on Jan. 1.

Did you make New Year’s resolutions? Did you write them down?

I know I did, but they now appear on the horizon as a distant memory.

If you agree with me that June just might be the month to begin your self-improvement quest, I have a suggestion for your summer “to do” list: Renew your spirit.

I say this because, almost without exception, the women and men I’ve met who have successfully found their way after a divorce or the death of a spouse have been bolstered by a

healthy spiritual life. They regularly attend worship services, find comfort in prayer and hymns, and faithfully observe religious holidays.

Others march to a different drummer and nourish their spiritual life in private moments, listening to music, communing with nature, reading or writing or just sitting in quiet meditation.

However it’s expressed, my observations tell me that those who nurture their spiritual life fare better when challenged by life’s transitions. I consider them fortunate because they take time to renew their spirit, and in doing so, find the inner strength to navigate uncharted waters and to help others along the way.

Even when their own sense of self-worth is fragile or failing, I’ve

seen devout divorcees and widows reach out to others with encouragement and prayer. Spiritually grounded, their empathy runs deep and their desire to support others is steadfast.

Last month, I heard from a woman whose husband abruptly left her and their two teenage children after 27 years of marriage. She was in shock and consumed with pain.

She shared with me how comforting it would have been to hear from her minister and church friends, but they didn’t know her situation. She had stopped going to church. It had been years, and that spiritual touch-point had fallen by the wayside.

Similarly, a neighbor of mine confided that he stopped going to temple after he lost his “bride” to lung cancer. Mad at the injustice of it all, he couldn’t bring himself to attend services without her. This led to years of isolation, during which he was overcome with loneliness. I wasn’t surprised when he talked of numbing his pain with alcohol.

My message to both was simple: Renew your spiritual connections.

It’s easy to imagine how difficult it might be to contact a minister, priest, rabbi or other spiritual adviser and ask for support after being absent from services for many years. But any religious congregation worthy of its mission will respond with open arms. A warm embrace is waiting for those who walk through the doors.

Likewise, if other doors beckon – if nature or poetry or yoga feed your soul — go forth and embrace those opportunities. My spiritual battery gets recharged when I take time out from my busy schedule to be still and mindful. My quiet time in an inspirational setting allows me to contemplate my most deeply held beliefs. I emerge grounded and motivated.

The power of a spiritual life is mighty. When you pursue your spiritual goals and teachings, life can be more manageable and your ability to cope with loss, loneliness and everyday struggles is strengthened.

No matter how you pursue a spiritual connection, I encourage you to make that connection or re-connection now. Today. An idea bigger than yourself, a set of convictions, and the company of people who share your beliefs can lead to a richer, more meaningful and peaceful existence.

You do not have to go through life alone. And that is a godsend.

Gwenn Voelckers is the founder and facilitator of “Alone & Content” empowerment boot camps for women held throughout the year in Mendon.

She 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 her boot camp, to purchase her book, or invite her to speak call 585-624-7887, email gvoelckers@rochester.rr.com, or visit www.aloneandcontent.com

break in the middle.

Kids taking a cannabis extract improved 49% and 53% on two scales in which doctors and parents measure autism symptoms and disruptive behavior. That compared to 21% and 44% improvement, respectively, in kids on the placebo.

The children treated with marijuana also showed 50% improvement on a scale that tracks core autism symptoms, compared with 22% for kids taking the placebo.

However, children treated with marijuana were more likely to suffer from decreased appetite, sleepiness and disturbed sleep.

Simon Baron-Cohen is presi-

dent of the International Society for Autism Research, and reviewed the study. “From the brief information, we must advise those considering this as a form of treatment to use caution, given the report of significant rates of unwanted side effects,” he said.

Researchers plan a follow-up clinical trial that will include more children from different countries, Aran said.

He cautioned against becoming too excited about this potential therapy.

“It’s not a miracle treatment,” Aran said. “It might be another tool in our toolbox.”

s d i K Corner

Can Medical Marijuana Help Kids With Autism?

M

edical marijuana extracts appear to help children with autism, reducing their disruptive behavior while improving their social responsiveness, a new Israeli clinical trial reports.

Kids treated with either a wholeplant cannabis extract or a pure combination of cannabidiol (CBD) and THC experienced a significant improvement in their symptoms, compared with a control group given a placebo, researchers said.

But parents of kids with autism should still wait for more data before trying to treat them with medical marijuana, warned lead researcher Adi Aran, director of the pediatric neurology unit at Shaare Zedek Medical Center in Jerusalem.

“Thousands of parents already are treating their kids with cannabis based on rumors of this study,” the physician said. “I don’t want it to be even more.”

For the study, 150 children with autism were put in one of three groups. One group received a placebo, another was treated with a whole-plant extract of marijuana, and the third received a pure blend of Page 8

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CBD and THC at a 20-to-1 ratio.

THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) is the compound that produces intoxication when one uses marijuana.

CBD is a compound in marijuana that does not produce intoxication, but does appear to interact with cannabinoid receptors in the brain.

One CBD-based product, Epidiolex, has been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration for use in treating epilepsy.

CBD has been shown to help anxiety in several studies, so researchers thought it might aid in treating behavioral problems in kids with autism, Aran said. These include acting out and violence towards others.

The THC was included in the pure blend because “we believe the THC might be important for improving the social deficits as well,” Aran said. “THC is known to impact the social area.”

The whole-plant extract included not only CBD and THC, but many other compounds also found in cannabis, Aran said.

The kids were treated for two four-week periods, with a four-week

IN GOOD HEALTH – Rochester / Genesee Valley Healthcare Newspaper • June 2019

The Surprising Benefits of Weekend Workouts ™

(585) 241-9670 DO YOU OR A LOVED ONE HAVE HAIR PULLING DISORDER (HPD)?

Y

ou know the value of exercise for maintaining good health and managing chronic conditions like arthritis, but you also know how hard it is to fit daily workouts into a busy schedule to meet weekly minimums.

As an alternative, many people try to cram in a week’s worth of fitness on the weekends. While this approach has been met with skepticism (along with worry about injuries), new research shows that you can get exercise’s health benefits this way.

A British study published in JAMA Internal Medicine says there’s no reason to abandon exercise completely if you can’t do it during the work week. Packing exercise into

your weekend is actually a viable option.

Based on surveys from 63,000 people, any exercise is better than none. Researchers found that people who exercise at a high rate on weekends — getting in the recommended 150 minutes of moderate exercise or 75 minutes of vigorous activity — had about 30% lower risk of early death than people who don’t exercise at all.

Another interesting finding: People who exercise more often but for shorter blocks of time can also lower their risk for chronic conditions — yes, even if they fail to total 150 minutes a week. The bottom line? Get up and move whenever you can.

Most Americans Hit Hard by Medical Bills

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early six in 10 Americans say they have suffered financial hardship due to health care costs, a new study finds.

Researchers from the American Cancer Society looked at three different types of problems: difficulty paying medical bills, worrying about bills and delaying or doing without care.

“With increasing prevalence of multiple chronic conditions, higher patient cost-sharing, and higher costs of health care, the risk of hardship will likely increase in the future,” wrote researchers led by senior scientific director Robin Yabroff.

In the study, they analyzed data from the 2015-2017 National Health Interview Survey by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, and found that 56% of adults (more than 137 million) reported at least

one of the three types of medical financial hardship.

Compared with those 65 and older, adults aged 18 to 64 were more likely to say they had difficulty paying medical bills (29% vs. 15%), worried about paying bills (47% vs.

28%) and delayed or went without care (21% vs. 13%).

Among adults aged 18 to 64, those with more health problems and lower levels of education were more likely to have greater levels of hardship.

Multiple types of hardship were more likely to be reported by women than men, and by uninsured people (53%) than those with some public (26.5%) and private insurance (23%).

The study was published online May 2 in the Journal of General Internal Medicine.

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. © 2019 by Local News, Inc. All rights reserved.

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, Erin Goodrich, Jenna Carson, Jennifer Faringer, Todd Etshman, Kimberly Blaker, Amy Cavalier • Advertising: Anne Westcott, Linda Covington • Layout & Design: Dylon Clew-Thomas • Office manager: Nancy Nietz 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.

June 2019 •

“Hair Pulling Disorder” (HPD) Trichotillomania (TTM) Is tough enough to pronounce, but worse to live with. We’ll call it by its more common name of Hair Pulling Disorder, or HPD. It is a mental condition that makes those suffering from it have an urge to compulsively, repeatedly and unaccountably pull out their body hair. Do not think of it as a “disease,” which it is not, but a “disorder.”

What Causes HPD? It is very rare (fewer than 200,000 cases per year in the US). It can last a short or a long time. Its cause is unknown and although genetic and environmental factors may play a part, areas of the brain which control emotions, movement and impulse control are more likely suspects. The urge to pull one’s hair is commonly focused on the scalp, eyebrows and eyelids. Medical considerations aside, HPD can result in unsightly bare patches where hair has been pulled. Some sufferers are even unaware they are doing it until they notice the embarrassing results.

Can it be Treated?

Treatments are very limited and include counseling, some therapies and medications to control the impulse. It can manifest itself at all ages, is tough to treat and often recurs. Clearly, it can cause significant distress and interfere with social functioning.

Dr. Sarah Atkinson and her staff at Finger Lakes Clinical Research/ERG is conducting a clinical research trial for men and women between ages 18 to 45, testing an investigational drug to treat this disorder, determine safety, tolerability and effectiveness.

It is a 6-week study. During the treatment period you will be part of our research team and participate in a number of assessments, tests and evaluations. There is no cost to patients and no insurance is required. Participants will also be paid a stipend for each visit for time and travel expense. The study is sponsored by Promentis Pharmaceuticals and is carefully monitored by an Institutional Review Board (IRB).

You can get additional information by calling Dr. Atkinson’s office at (585)241-9670 during normal business hours and also online at www.ClinicalTrials.gov, a government website.

Not everyone is eligible for this or any clinical trial. You can review the “inclusion” and “exclusion” criteria at the ClinicalTrials website, or in person with Dr. Atkinson and her staff.

If you, a friend or loved one suffers from this disorder, call 585-241-9670 to find out more. It will be well worth their time.

Clinical trials: • For you • For your loved ones • For the future 885 Winton Rd. S, Rochester NY 14618 At the “12 Corners” in Brighton

www.flclinical.com

IN GOOD HEALTH – Rochester / Genesee Valley Healthcare Newspaper

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Welcoming SIV family: Volunteers with No One Left Behind – Rochester Chapter welcome members of a family who arrived in Rochester from the Middle East. They received a special immigration visa for translation services they provided to American troops in Iraq and Afghanistan.

Creating Caring Circles

kindness, respect and humor,” said Schmidt. “Each encounter represents an opportunity to learn about the language and communication within and between us all.”

Cultural gaps between volunteers and SIV families are all part of the learning experience, said Smith, NOLB president.

“The important part of our work is to build bridges and overcome the uncomfortable feelings of these situations — for both the refugee and the volunteer helping,” said Smith. “It’s OK to be uncomfortable. Sit down and have some tea. Find the commonalities of the human spirit.”

Schmidt said her experience volunteering with NOLB has helped her see that humans all long for the same things — to be loved and cared for, to provide for their families and to make for a better life for their children.

“I’m reminded that one person can make a difference in the life of another person, and when people come together on behalf of the greater good, anything and everything is possible,” she said.

Today, Bashir and his family are feeling blessed. He’s managing his blood disorder and his daughter will soon find out if she needs surgery to heal her heart condition. His wife will be getting mental health care soon as well.

“Now that I feel a little bit stable, I’m going to classes to make my English more good and when I get my job, I will be very happy,” he said.

“In America, my soul is at peace.

There’s no dangers.”

Caring circles of volunteers are formed to help acclimate individuals to their new community — everything from helping families access medical care, use the bus system, library and postal service, learn how to do banking and grocery shopping, and even enrolling children in school and adults in college.

“We really want them to know that we are with them and for them,” said NOLB volunteer Kim Schmidt.

“In many ways, we become surrogate family.”

Outside the caring circle are other volunteers who step up to help on moving day, offer rides, set up a playdate or a friendly visit, share a meal, help with English practice, accompany an SIV recipient to a job fair or even host a fundraiser in support of NOLB. A network of more than 250 active volunteers with No One Left Behind – Rochester Chapter assists in providing housing, monthly food baskets, diapers and teaches families with SNAP benefits how to use the token system at the Rochester Public Market. In March, volunteers logged an all-time high of 1,185 volunteer hours.

When it comes to bridging language barriers, NOLB mobilizes the resources of SIV recipients who are already part of the organization and fluent in English to help bridge the language barrier.

“Sometimes we just make the best of it with generous doses of

No One Left Behind – Rochester Chapter President Ellen Smith is pictured with a refugee who recently received a car as part of Operation Wheels for Work. The refugee received a special immigration visa for helping American troops in Iraq and Afghanistan.

Ensuring No One is Left Behind

By Amy Cavalier

A

volunteer agency in Rochester has helped resettle the families of 93 individuals who have served as interpreters for the United States’ operations in Iraq and Afghanistan.

Ahmad Bashir Qayyum is finally sleeping with the lights off at night.

“When I was in my country, we were really scared, so I always keep my lights on at night,” he said. “Now that I’m in the United States, I ask my wife to turn off the lights at night. I sleep very well.”

A native of Kunduz, Afghanistan, Bashir served as a translator for the US Army Corps of Engineers for two-and-a-half years, making him eligible for a Special Immigration Visa (SIV).

A terrorist attack on his home forced the family to flee to Kabul. In the meantime, he began receiving letters and anonymous calls threatening violence against him and his family.

On top of it, his daughter’s medical conditions were worsening.

When his family finally received their SIVs after a four year wait, they had no time left to spare. A friend lent the money for the flight to JFK in New York City. From there, the family headed to Rochester where members of a network of volunteers from No One Left Behind were waiting to assist in finding them housing and getting them connected with medical care.

“Lin [Vanderstyne] is one of the volunteers who has helped me with my medical issues,” Bashir said.

“Now I call her mom.”

Keeping the Promise No One Left Behind was started in 2013 by co-founder Matt Zeller and his Afghan interpreter, Janis Shinwari, who saved Zeller’s life when he killed two Taliban fighters who were about to shoot Zeller. Despite promises the U.S. Military made to every interpreter supporting American operations in Iraq and Afghanistan, it took Zeller more than three years to get Shinwari and his family away from the Taliban fighters hunting them.

The nonprofit was founded to ensure America treats interpreters as the heroes and veterans they are.

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How to Learn More • The Rochester Minimalists will host Ellen Smith, president of the No One Left Behind - Rochester Chapter, from 6-8 p.m. on Tuesday, June 11, at the Brighton Memorial Library, 2300 Elmwood Ave., Rochester.

• Visit http://nooneleft.org/rochester/ to learn more about how to support NOLB with donations of household items, vehicles, financial support or volunteerism.

Nearly 75,000 Special Immigrant Visa recipients have resettled all across America since 2008, according to Pew Research and the State Department. Since 2014, No One Left Behind has resettled a total of 8,300 individuals nationwide.

No One Left Behind Rochester Chapter President Ellen Smith got involved in 2014 when she worked with Zeller to resettle an interpreter in Western New York. One of nine NOLB chapters in the United States, the Rochester chapter has assisted a total of 93 of those families consisting of a total of 290 individuals.

The nonprofit assists SIV families with everything from a hero’s welcome at the airport and finding and furnishing a home to obtaining a job, pursuing medical compensation for injuries they may have sustained while serving alongside US military or government efforts, and even with obtaining a driver’s license and a vehicle.

“A car opens so many doors in so many ways,” said Smith. “It helps with the family’s overall mental health and independence.”

Funded completely by grants and donations, No One Left Behind – Rochester Chapter partners with community organizations to provide medical needs, bicycles, clothing, food baskets and even horseback riding lessons for the children of refugee families. Volunteers go beyond ensuring stable housing for families, assisting them with budgeting, securing benefits and work training.

“The faith community coming together plays a very big role in making this successful,” said Smith.

Rochester is one of the better cities for refugees because the Rochester International Academy and Office of Adult & Career Education services, said Smith. Still, the lack of affordable housing presents challenges and

forces NOLB to get creative.

“Housing is a critical problem for refugee families,” said Smith. “Many refugee families wind up in highcrime neighborhoods which is hard to get a good start with the conditions they face.”

IN GOOD HEALTH – Rochester / Genesee Valley Healthcare Newspaper • June 2019

June 2019 •

IN GOOD HEALTH – Rochester / Genesee Valley Healthcare Newspaper

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Page 11

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MVP Health Plan, Inc. is an HMO-POS/PPO/MSA organization with a Medicare contract. Enrollment in MVP Health Plan depends on contract renewal. Every year, Medicare evaluates plans based on a 5-star rating system. This information is not a complete description of benefits. Call 1-833-368-4622 (TTY:1-800-662-1220) for more information.

Y0051_4264_M • IN GOOD HEALTH – Rochester / Genesee Valley Healthcare Newspaper

Page 12

• June 2019

Summer Care

Summer Sun-Safety ‘My worst sunburn ever was from…’

By Kimberly Blaker

M

y worst sunburn ever was from lying out on an overcast day. I didn’t expect to get much of a tan, let alone sunburned, given the conditions. I was especially unconcerned since I couldn’t see any color change at the time. But by evening, my skin was pinkish-red, and the pain set in. I couldn’t wear clothes and had to call in sick for two days.

Aside from a serious sunburn, there are other equally important reasons to take extra precautions in the sun, especially during the hot summer months.

Skin cancer is the most widely recognized health problem resulting from sun exposure. To reduce your

risk: • Avoid afternoon sun.

• Apply sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher at least 15 minutes before you go out and then reapply every two hours.

• Look for products carrying the Skin Cancer Foundation’s blue seal of approval.

• Wear clothing that covers your arms and legs as well as a hat to shade your face.

The sun’s rays also damage our eyes. Exposure can cause cataracts as well as damage to part of the retina, cornea and lens. Physician Cheryl Khanna of Mayo Clinic recommends wearing sunglasses that block 99 to 100 percent of UVA and UVB rays.

Also, some sunglass designs offer better protection. The best designs to block out as much UV rays as possible are wrap around or close fitting glasses.

The risks of dehydration and heat exhaustion also increase during warmer months. It’s important to drink several glasses of water every

day of the year, but especially during the summer months. If you’ll be in the sun or heat for any length of time, carry plenty of water with you.

Better yet, carry sports drinks, since they contain electrolytes. Also, try to restrict outdoor physical activity to cooler parts of the day.

said. “This will help ensure cold items stay below 40 degrees. Also, when serving cold food, place on ice and return to cooler after being out for two hours, if it’s hotter than 90 degrees, one hour.”

Heather Carrera, doctor of clinical nutrition at the integrative health practice of Dr. Lesley James in Pittsford, explained the “danger zone” of food temperature.

“Bacteria grow most rapidly in the range of temperatures between 40 “F and 140 F, doubling in number in as little as 20 minutes,” she said.

In addition to using a cooler for cold foods, keep foods heated at home in an insulated container.

Carrera said that using an alarm on your cell phone can help remind you when it’s time to put food away.

What you serve can also make a difference.

“Relying too heavily on foods that spoil easily can be dangerous,” Carrera said. “Instead of using mayonnaise and eggs, try using salads that use fresh fruit, vegetables, and an oil and vinegar-based dressing instead. Monitor similar foods such as tuna salad, potato salad, or anything dairy-based closely.”

Begin with cold foods that are already cold. Don’t try to rely on the cooler to chill foods.

How you serve cold items can affect their temperature as well. For instance, keeping all the drinks with the cold salads in one cooler isn’t a

great idea.

“Constantly opening a cooler to get drinks will lower the temperature drastically,” Carrera said. “Keep food in a separate cooler that is only opened when ready to prep foods. If the food cooler temperature increases past 40 degrees, it’s entering the danger zone.”

She recommends packing a cooler with a layer of ice at the bottom, followed by raw or marinating meat in sealed containers, followed by salads, slaws and condiments on top, which can prevent any meat drippings from leaking into ready-to-eat foods.

It can also help to fill coolers up to the brim. Use up any empty space with things like napkins and plates or snacks that don’t need refrigeration.

Avoid repurposing ice.

“Don’t use loose ice used to keep food cold as ice for beverages,” Carrera said. “This ice could have picked up bacteria from leaking food.”

Bringing along a melon to slice?

Don’t forget to wash it first; otherwise, every cut of the knife draws bacteria inside, to the flesh. Cut it on a clean surface.

Carrera also advises washing up after handling raw meat, using warm soapy water.

“Bring hand sanitizer if you’re at a picnic without running water,” Carrera said.

Picnics, Cookouts: How to Keep Food Safe Picnics and cookouts raise the risk of issues such as cross contamination and food-borne pathogens. Follow a few simple rules to avoid the problem

By Deborah Jeanne Sergeant

N

ow that it’s picnic season, why not brush up on food handling tips to ensure your food is safe?

Picnics and cookouts raise the risk of issues such as cross-contamination and food-borne pathogens because we’re cooking and handling food outside the routine environment of the kitchen.

“The biggest dangers in handling food for a picnic or cookout involves not properly preparing, serving and storing foods,” said Molly Rockford, registered dietitian nutritionist and clinical nutrition specialist at UR Medicine’s Wilmot Cancer Institute.

“Cross-contamination, when bacteria from uncooked food is spread to cooked food, is one of the main ways we can get sick.”

For example, if you place cooked meat on the same platter that held it before it was cooked, the prepared food can become contaminated with bacteria. Or if you moved raw meat with the same set of tongs that you use for serving it. Or if you marinade raw meat and later use the marinade to baste the meat as it cooks, you spread bacteria all over it.

Rockford listed a few foods that can cause cross contamination, including raw steak, chicken, ground meat and seafood.

Rockford also said that cutting boards can promote cross contamination. Never use one for raw meat followed by food that’s not cooked, like fresh fruits and vegetables.

“Designate one cutting board for

raw meats and one for raw fruits and vegetables,” she advised. “When preparing foods, wash cutting boards, utensils and work space with hot soapy water, between each food item.

Keeping things clean and separate throughout the process of preparing and cooking foods can greatly reduce the chances of cross contamination.”

By preparing as much as you can at home, you can help prevent many cross-contamination issues.

Rockford also implicated food storage temperature as a cause of bacterial growth. When it comes to perishable foods, cold foods should be kept cold and hot foods should be kept hot.

“It is important to cook foods to the desired internal temperature, then keep these foods above 140 degrees,” she said.

The USDA advises using a meat thermometer in the thickest part of the meat to gauge temperature. Cook beef, pork, veal, fish, shellfish and lamb to 145 F, ground meats to 160 F, and all types of poultry to 165 F. Don’t rely on the meat’s color or if the juices run clear.

Don’t come back and grab a grilled chicken thigh long after the coals have cooled; eat cooked foods promptly after cooking.

As for cold foods, keep them below 40 degrees. While a delicious picnic spread out on the tables looks inviting, “items like pasta and potato salads, fresh fruit and vegetables should remain in coolers packed with ice until ready to serve,” Rockford June 2019 •

IN GOOD HEALTH – Rochester / Genesee Valley Healthcare Newspaper

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SmartBites

By Anne Palumbo

The skinny on healthy eating

Great Summer Food

WATERMELON

A

lthough National Watermelon Day falls on Aug. 3, we’re featuring watermelon today because warm weather, picnics, the Fourth of July, and all things summery are but weeks away.

And what’s more summery than a cool, refreshing slice of watermelon?

Despite the popular belief that watermelon is just water and sugar, this delicious fruit is actually soaked with nutrients.

Each juicy bite has significant amounts of vitamins A and C, modest amounts of potassium and fiber and varying levels of many more vitamins, minerals and antioxidants.

Not so surprisingly, however, watermelon’s most abundant nutrient is water: 92%. An essential nutrient to overall good health, water does so much more than just quench our thirst. Even though it provides no calories or organic nutrients, our body uses water in all its cells, organs and tissues to help regulate its temperature and maintain other bodily functions. In addition, because we lose water through breathing, sweating, and digestion, it’s important to rehydrate by drinking fluids and eating foods — like watermelon — that brim with water.

Water also helps our body remove waste through perspiration, urination and defecation. Ever experience unusually dark urine? Stools as hard as marbles? Most likely, you’re not getting enough water, which helps the kidneys, liver and intestines flush out waste. And while there is no evidence to prove that upping your fluid intake will cure constipation, consuming adequate water does help prevent constipation by keeping stools soft and moving

things along at a steady clip.

Drinking fluids and eating foods like watermelon — during or after a meal — actually aids digestion. Water is needed in our mouth for saliva, which begins the digestive process, and further needed in our stomach to assist enzymes that help break down food so our body can absorb the nutrients. This all-important nutrient is also essential for digesting soluble fiber — the type of fiber that slows digestion and nutrient absorption.

So, whether we eat watermelon during or after a meal, we’re giving our digestive system a healthy boost!

But the claim-to-fame nutrient that has recently elevated watermelon to “super fruit” status — the nutrient that seems to be all over the news lately for its purported health perks — is lycopene, a plant-produced phytonutrient. A powerful antioxidant that gives watermelon its characteristic red hue, lycopene, like all phytonutrients, appears to be beneficial to human health and help prevent certain diseases. Furthermore, according to the Watermelon Board, watermelon contains more lycopene than any other fresh fruit or vegetable.

Why the limelight on lycopene?

In a nutshell, current research indicates a strong association between high intake of lycopene-rich foods, such as watermelon, and reduced risk of certain cancers (most notably prostate cancer according to the National Cancer Institute), heart disease, chronic inflammation and stroke.

In a report just published in the journal “Neurology,” Finnish researchers suggested that lycopene, in addition to its ability to attack cancer-causing free radicals, may also reduce inflammation and cholesterol,

Avocado Toast with Watermelon — Take a break from traditional breakfast fare and try this tasty, nutritious alternative. It’s both creamy and crunchy and packed with flavor, along with nutrients, such as calcium and iron.

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improve immune function, and prevent blood from clotting.

All of these benefits, they emphasized, may help reduce ischemic strokes, the most common kind, that are caused by blockages in blood flow to the brain.

Does eating a slice of watermelon a day keep sunburn at bay? Many studies say yes, thanks (again!) to its lycopene, which has been shown to offer some protection against UV-induced sunburn.

While scientists caution that the level of protection in no way replaces sunscreen, they do note that since most sun exposures occur during activities when our skin is totally unprotected — such as walking to and from our car — dietary factors with sun-protecting properties might have a considerable beneficial effect.

Watermelon’s antioxidant properties are further bolstered by impressive concentrations of two important vitamins: A and C. Both gobble up harmful free radicals associated with a host of age-related diseases and also boost the immune system’s defenses against infections and diseases. Individually, vitamin A is essential for growth and healthy vision, while vitamin C is a tissue-builder and wound-healer.

What’s more, this quintessential summer snack is a dieter’s dream food, delivering a mere 40 calories per diced cup. It’s filling, too, thanks to its high water content. Worried about cholesterol, fat or sodium? Watermelon happily scores a big goose egg in those departments.

Watermelon’s sweet flavor suggests it’s loaded with sugar and carbs. It’s not. As a comparison, a cup of watermelon has around 9 grams of sugar — about the same as a small fresh fruit, half banana or one cup of berries — and only 11 grams of carbs. Like other fruits, watermelon has a mix of carbohydrates: natural fruit sugar (fructose, a simple carb) and fiber (a different kind of

Steel-Cut Oats with Watermelon — Steel-cut oats are one of the most nutritious grains, rich in the soluble fiber called beta glucan that helps keep blood fats and sugar in healthy ranges.

IN GOOD HEALTH – Rochester / Genesee Valley Healthcare Newspaper • June 2019

carb).

While refined foods, like many breads, pastries and sweets, also have simple carbs, their carbs are not healthy because they’ve been stripped of nearly all their fiber, vitamins and minerals. This “refinement” causes the carbs to be digested quickly and have a high glycemic index, which then leads to rapid spikes in blood sugar and insulin levels.

Eating refined foods that are high on the glycemic index has been linked to drastically increased risk of many diseases, including obesity, heart disease, and Type 2 diabetes.

Watermelon has a high glycemic index, but because it’s low in carbs and boasts some fiber, it does not have the same affect on blood sugar, as, say, eating a donut. However, it’s still important for people with diabetes to be aware of the sugar and carb content of any fruit and to avoid eating excessive amounts of it.

According to the American Diabetic Association, watermelon is safe for diabetics to eat in small amounts and is best eaten alongside foods that contain plenty of healthful fats, fiber, and protein.

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.

Watermelon and Bulgur Wheat Salad — A light main or hearty side dish, watermelon adds a sweet complement to the chewy bulgur and peppery arugula.

For full recipes, visit www.watermelon.org. Photos by Watermelon Board.

Is there such a thing as a “Medical Miracle?”

In the 25 years that I practiced medicine, I never witnessed a medical miracle until I started working at Upstate Ketamine Care. Now, as the Patient Care Coordinator and the Physician Liaison, I get to talk to patients and families everyday who are just beginning to explore Intravenous Ketamine Therapy as an option and those who have already received the treatment.

I remember one of our first patients, a year ago, it was a middle aged man who was being led into the center by his elderly mother. She tells me that he has been on every antidepressant made and none of them worked. He has been in and out therapy his whole life and has been in and out of psychiatric hospitals, several times a year, since he was a child. He has had over 60 shock treatments, Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation and has an Implanted Deep Brain Stimulator that is sending constant electrical shocks through his brain; all to treat severe clinical depression and none of it worked!

The mom is now in her 60s and she has cared for her son his whole life.

He rarely leaves his room, is crippled by depression and he even takes his meals there. Tears well up in her eyes as she tells me his story hoping that Intravenous Ketamine Therapy will help him. His face is flat, he is poorly groomed and to say this man looks depressed would be a understatement.

He receives his treatment and with all our fingers crossed he leaves.

Ketamine is after all the undisputed most effective anti-depressant in the world; effectively treating 70-80% of patients. it is twice as effective as the most effective oral anti-depressant available.

Two days later he and his mother walk through the door for a second treatment. I had to do a double take! Who was this guy with the sweet mother of our disabled patient? “Hello” I said. He replied “Hi, how are you?” My mouth dropped to the floor as this was the first time I have heard him speak. His mother pulls me aside as the nurse takes him into a treatment room for his second treatment. “Look at him!” I said to mom.

“Jeff, it is unbelievable, last night he was in our garage working on his car, he has not touched that car since he was 16!”

Okay, now the tears welled up in my eyes. That was the first medical miracle I had ever witnessed. But it’s the first of many. Now I see them everyday at Upstate Ketamine Care and it is the most satisfying job I have ever had, watching lives be changed every day.

–Jeff, Patient Care Coordinator Physician Liaison, Upstate Ketamine Care

Suffer From:

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–Dr. Thomas Insel, Director of the National Institute of Mental Health

585-673-2319 | www.ketamine.care 3300 Monroe Avenue Suite 345, Rochester, New York 14618 June 2019 •

IN GOOD HEALTH – Rochester / Genesee Valley Healthcare Newspaper

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Page 15

Medical Spas

Medical Spas Offer Professional Grade Services

By Deborah Jeanne Sergeant

S

pa and medical spa: what’s the difference?

At many salons and spas, clients can receive facials, peels, microdermabrasion, massage, and care for skin, hair and nails.

A medical spa may offer some of those services, but specializes in care not available at salons and spas, including more invasive and medically-based treatments overseen by a medical doctor, nurse practitioner, physician assistant, or registered nurse.

That distinguishing factor makes a difference.

A medical spa may include thread lifts, injected products, micro-needling, hydro-facial, skin resurfacing, skin rejuvenation, Cool-Sculpting, vein therapy, migraine therapy and more.

Many medical spas augment the medical care provided by dermatologists or plastic surgeons. Any elective services they provide are generally not covered by health insurance.

“A medical spa is governed by the same rules and regulations as a medical practice,” said physician Vito Quatela, board-certified facial plastic surgeon at The Quatela Center for Plastic Surgery in Rochester.

He said that each state has different requirements regarding what type of licensed professional can do what type of treatment in a medical spa.

“Botox is considered a medical treatment, and most states recommend an RN or higher-level practitioner perform Botox or injectable

procedures,” Quatela said as an example. “Microdermabrasion is a more superficial technique that is often performed by aestheticians.”

In addition to the procedures, the products offered at a medical spa are medical grade in nature.

Trish Hohman, practice administrator at Helendale Dermatology and Medical Spa in Rochester, said their treatments offer medical grade answers to skin issues such as wrinkles, discoloration, blemishes and redness.

A medical spa can use treatments with a higher percentage of glycolic acid for faster, more effective results.

Hohman said that Helendale has changed over its 15 years, dropping services such as pedicures and massage therapy. In the medical spa’s early days, “patients asked for these because they heard the word ‘spa,’” Hohman said.

Now that patients have a better understanding of what medical spas offer, they seek Helendale for more advanced services, including dermatology, Hohman said.

Helendale’s physician Elizabeth Arthur is board-certified in dermatology and serves on the faculty at Rochester General and Strong Memorial Hospital. She monitors patients’ skin not just for unwanted wrinkles, but spots and moles that could indicate skin cancer.

Another example of a medical spa, Vitalize Medical Center in Rochester focuses on rejuvenation, such as medical weight loss, anti-aging and well-being. Alicia Caiola-Hicks, nurse manager and practice manager

Spas 101 When to choose a medical spa

M

edical spas have become more popular in recent years for men and women alike. Medical spas, also called medi-spas or med spas, are a kind of a hybrid between the traditional day spa and a medical clinic.

Medical spas strive to blend the best of two worlds—a relaxing spa experience with the procedures and expertise typically only found at a doctor’s office.

Wondering if a medical spa is the right place for you to get your treatments done? Here are answers to some common questions about medical spas.

How Medical Spas Differ From Traditional Day Spas The biggest differences between a traditional day spa and a medical spa are the types of procedures that are offered. Medical procedures that can’t be done at the average day spa can be performed at the medical spa.

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Unlike day spas, medical spas must be affiliated with, overseen, or run by a medical doctor. While not every procedure is done by a doctor, they are performed under the supervision of the doctor, most often a dermatologist or plastic surgeon.

Medical spas themselves can vary widely, depending on where you go. Some are as posh as the day spa you visited during your last vacation; others are decidedly more clinical. While day spas focus on relaxation, most medical spas are driven by results.

Treatments Offered While the menu will vary depending on which medical spa you visit, in general, you can expect to find treatments for acne, aging skin, hair removal, and more.

Like at a traditional day spa, luxurious treatments like massage, salt glows, seaweed wraps and facials can be had at a medical spa.

at Vitalize Medical Center in Rochester, said the center offers a “broad spectrum” of treatments.

“Many clients here are men and women who come in for hormone replacement,” Caiola-Hicks said.

As at Vitalize, that can only be offered under a medical provider’s care.

“Aestheticians can only put needles into a certain depth,” Caiola-Hicks said. “We can go to a deeper depth and offer skin peels that are a higher grade. We are able to push the envelope a little more.”

Unlike a doctor’s office, a typical place for older adults to seek hormone therapy, the providers at Vitalize function on a more concierge level.

“When you pay $2,400 a year for hormone management, we’ll answer questions on a Sunday morning,” Caiola-Hicks said. “That sets us apart from a primary care office.”

Most medical spas sell skin care lines a so clients can maintain a regimen at home.

“The skin care lines we carry are medical grade products with medical grade ingredients you can’t get at any spa,” said physician Ben Tracy, who has training in aesthetic medicine and operates Monroe MedSpa in Rochester.

Some people aren’t sure what they want to do, but desire an enhanced appearance — not necessarily to look 20 again. Some want to not appear tired and haggard or sad, as the effects of aging have caused their face to sag. During the mid-20s, the production of collagen begins slowing, which means skin doesn’t have as much elasticity.

“A lot of people come in for a free consultation and say, ‘This is my face; what would you suggest?’”

Tracy said. “Some do things; others go on their way.”

But medical spas also offer more specialized treatments that are typically only found at a dermatology or plastic surgery clinic. Some of the more common offerings include light and laser treatments, injectables like Juvederm, Restalyne, and Botox, as well as chemical peels.

As for acne treatment, you can find these at the medical spa too.

Medical spas offer procedures to treat breakouts, lighten post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, reduce scarring, and improve the overall appearance of the skin.

Who Performs Treatments The person who actually does your treatment depends on the treatment itself. The physician that oversees the medical spa is in charge of all procedures that fall under the medical realm. Aesthetician handle the more routine day spa therapies.

Expect that an aesthetician, also known as a skin care therapist, will do all non-medical procedures. An aesthetician will do all cosmetic procedures, like massage, body scrubs, wraps, and the like. Aesthetician can also do certain non-invasive treatments like acne treatment facials, microdermabrasion, and s​ uperficial chemical peels.

IN GOOD HEALTH – Rochester / Genesee Valley Healthcare Newspaper • June 2019

Although each state has its own regulations concerning medical spas, in general, all medical procedures must be performed by a physician. This means all injectables, chemical peels that target deeper layers of the skin, and light and laser treatments will be done by the doctor.

This article was written by Angela Palmer and originally published by www.verywellhealth.com, a site specialized in disseminating news related to health.

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IN GOOD HEALTH – Rochester / Genesee Valley Healthcare Newspaper

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Page 17

Medical Spas

How to Select a Medical Spa

I

f you want to seek esthetic services above what a spa offers, turn to a medical spa. While some of your selection should be based upon the type of service you need, you may have several options.

Here’s what the experts say you need to look for in a medical spa.

n “Experience, first and foremost. You need to ensure that you’re receiving med spa services from experienced and educated professionals. Personnel should undergo proper training and have plenty of experience. When you decide on a med spa, you should be confident that you’ll be receiving your treatments from someone with the right knowledge and experience. n “Quality — it is to your advantage to seek a medical spa that is run under the supervision of a board-certified plastic surgeon. Plastic surgeons are trained not only in surgical procedures but non-surgical procedures as well. You will be guided in the best direction to achieve your goals. n “Results — make sure the medical spa offers clinically proven, results-based, comprehensive treat-

ment options that can renew, revitalize your skin, hone your contours, smooth wrinkles and much more with minimal downtime and maximum benefits. You should also be able to see before and after photos of results from procedures performed at that facility with those providers.”

Vito Quatela, board-certified facial plastic surgeon, The Quatela Center for Plastic Surgery, Rochester. n “In a medical spa, they’re supervised by a physician, nurse practitioner or physician assistant so people can ask about any medical problems. n “In a medical spa, every patient who comes in should get a skin analysis by a licensed aesthetician.

They address the issues the client has and recommend the best treatments.”

Trish Hohman, practice administrator at Helendale Dermatology and Medical Spa in Rochester. n “Looking at the experience of the provider you’re going to is very helpful. There are a lot of different places offering aesthetician in New York. It’s a relatively unregulated industry.

n “A lot of people can do a lot of treatments that in other states, you’d only be able to do at a physician-directed medical spa. Definitely do you your homework and find someone that’s preferably established and known in the community. n “Ask around. One big way people find out about me is word of mouth. If you’re doing quality work, and you’re really meticulous at doing these procedures, people will talk about it. They’ll share that information with their close friends and family members. n “Look for reviews online. See what people have to say about the place.

Physician Ben Tracy, Monroe Medspa, Rochester. n “A medical spa typically has a medical director who’s a medical

doctor who supervises the staff. Anything like weight loss, hormone replacement, Botox or other injections have to be supervised by a doctor or a nurse practitioner. n “The medical doctor doesn’t have to be there, but an MD has to be tied to the building somehow.

They have to supervise the facility and staff. They don’t have to be there each time something like Botox is offered. If there’s an issue, they can speak with the MD for advice a phone call away. n “Know who you’re going to, who the providers are, and that it’s truly legit. A lot of services like CoolSculpting can be offered by anyone. Make sure they’re a reputable company.”

Alicia Caiola-Hicks, nurse manager and practice manager at Vitalize Medical Center in Rochester.

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IN GOOD HEALTH – Rochester / Genesee Valley Healthcare Newspaper • June 2019

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My Experience with Blepharoplasty Surgery

By Todd Etshman My blepharoplasty (under-eye bag removal) experience is definitely, probably over. My doctor said we were finished unless something out of the ordinary happened or there was something I wasn’t pleased with.

She diligently watched over the healing process. She even went beyond the call of duty to go back in a second time after my original procedure to get a little more fat out of one side of the eye that still looked a little puffy.

As Howard Langstein, head

of plastic surgery at University of Rochester Medical Center, says: patients get more bang for the buck with blepharoplasty. Measurable results can be seen after healing. It’s also a procedure that has relatively few complication rates as long as it’s done by a qualified doctor and is unlikely to show up on multiple episodes of Botched.

To be honest, mine still isn’t perfect. One side is a bit puffier than the other even after two attempts. My doctor didn’t use esoteric medical

Why to Select a ‘Regular Spa Why Choose a ‘Regular’ spa?

While it may seem that medical spas are “better spas” than those not employing medical personnel, a standard spa provides services differently and, in many cases, different types of services.

Marie DiPaolo, spa manager at Luxe Spa in Rochester, said that clients come to her spa for services such as waxing, electrolysis, hair care, nails, massage, reiki, ear candling, CBD facials, CBD massage, migraine therapy and cupping, to provide beauty, wellness and relaxation, all in one setting that gives clients a sense of pampering.

585-256-1050

“We don’t just do fluff services, but services where the client will feel it’s a benefit to them,” DiPaolo said.

For example, a facial includes skin care advice and recommended follow-up at home to promote more lasting results.

“It’s a combination of a stressfree environment and relaxing along with the benefit of the years of experience offered by these providers,” DiPaolo said.

She said that she strives to create a long-term relationship between Luxe’s employees and clients for their beauty, hair and spa needs.

June 2019 •

terms in explaining to me that that’s just where the fat wants to go.

She would probably look at it again if I insisted but I’m willing to let it go after the second try. One reason is I have something else to worry about now that isn’t related to vanity, it’s the squamous or pre-cancerous cells on my face under that leftover fat pad. It’s most likely the result of sun damage. My blepharoplasty doctor found it on a follow up visit.

Something we either didn’t know or take heed of in the 1970’s is the fact that the sun will really damage your skin. Even worse than that is the fact that melanoma can kill you.

The best thing you can do for your skin that doesn’t cost anything is to stay out of the sun and always use sun block, Langstein advises.

I had to do an article recently on non-invasive cosmetic procedures for Rochester Business Journal. Non-invasive procedures such as micro needling for baldness and face and neck fillers are very popular these days.

One dermatologist recommended mid face fillers for me to keep from looking gaunt. She had fillers, injections and every other procedure her profession offers, done on her. She told me she was 55 so I felt compelled to tell her she didn’t look it, except she did if you really looked.

Invasive or non-invasive, the quest to keep up with aging skin and bodies is expensive. Looking younger isn’t a realistic goal, doctors say.

A more realistic goal is achieving a better version of you.

Is blepharoplasty the end of my cosmetic quest? Possibly, as long as I don’t spend too much time looking at my wrinkles and sagging skin in the mirror.

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IN GOOD HEALTH – Rochester / Genesee Valley Healthcare Newspaper

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Page 19

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Medication Drop Box Locations: Bristol: Town Hall

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

Thompson Hospital (lobby) Mental Health Clinic (County Complex)

Clifton Springs: Hospital (Lobby)

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

East Bloomfield: Town Hall Naples: Village Hall Phelps: Community Center Rushville: Village Hall Victor: Meade Square Pharmacy

If you do not live in Ontario County, please contact your local law enforcement agency. Questions, please call us at 585-396-4554.

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Prescription Pain Misuse and Older Adults

By Jennifer Faringer

T

he most commonly misused prescriptions for the older adult include opioid medications to treat pain and benzodiazepines to treat anxiety. The opioid epidemic, including both pain medications and heroin, is continually in the news due to increasing numbers of overdoses.

With compromised physical health and a decline in the body’s ability to effectively process medications, the potential for drug interactions as well as the increased risk of an overdose occur more frequently with the older adult.

While issues of shame and stigma are prevalent in the general society, their impact on the older adult is often experienced to an even greater degree. The older adult may be reluctant to seek help or to talk to their medical provider about their concerns. They consider their use a private matter and may be unwilling to acknowledge that their use of prescription drugs might be a problem. Adult children, other relatives or caregivers may hold potentially harmful misguided attitudes such as “it’s the only thing that gives them pleasure,” “let them have their one vice,” “they’ve earned it,” or “why bother discussing it, they won’t change anyway,” etc. This is a form of ageism where younger adults, without thinking, may assign different quality of life standards to the older adults in their lives.

The impact of opioids and other drugs on older adults is often more harmful with more severe physical effects as well as the possibility of medication interactions.

NCADD-RA (National Council on Alcoholism & Drug Dependence-Rochester Area) can help!.

Visit NCADD-RA’s website at www.ncadd-ra.org for education and support resources including both community education upon request, as well as the total approach family program, which is intended for those impacted by the drug use of their loved one.

For comprehensive addiction related services (treatment and recovery directories) in Monroe County and the surrounding eight counties in the Finger Lakes area, visit the NCADD-RA’s directory of OASAS certified treatment providers at https://ncadd-ra.org/programs-services/finger-lakes-addiction-resource-center.

Jennifer Faringer is director of DePaul’s NCADD-RA (National Council on Alcoholism & Drug DependenceRochester Area).

Dental Implants: The New Gold Standard of Tooth Replacement

D

ental implants can change your life. From a single missing tooth to an entire set of lost teeth, dental implants restore your appearance, speech, nutrition, health and self-esteem. If any of your teeth are missing, you know the consequences can be profound, both physically and emotionally.

Why are implants the best option to replace teeth?

A decades-long track record has proven dental implants to be the longest-lasting, most natural-looking and strongest chewing substitute for natural teeth.

The success rate is above 95%: one of the highest of any type of tooth replacement or medical procedure. Dental bridgework, by contrast, often needs replacement in 10 to 20 years.

Dental implants also help to maintain the health and shape of the jaw bone. Studies show that implants, like roots of real teeth, preserve the shape and size of your jaw bone by preventing the bone loss which normally occurs whenever a tooth or teeth are removed. Removable dentures, on the other hand, actually accelerate bone loss.

Unlike removable dentures, implants won’t shift or feel uncomfortable due to movement. They

IN GOOD HEALTH – Rochester / Genesee Valley Healthcare Newspaper • June 2019

don’t develop odors or need special cleaning and adhesives. Your food choices are not restricted, and speaking and smiling are as natural as with your own teeth.

Dental implants DO • Feel and look natural • Minimize bone loss • Have a very high (usually over 95%) success rate • Can last a lifetime

Dental implants DON’T • Slip and move • Decay • Restrict your diet • Impair speech • Look artificial Invest in yourself, invest in your future, and invest in your health.

Dental implants are the new gold standard of tooth replacement. Why not have the best?

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Visit www.drsemeryandscuro.com or call 585-247-7110.

Men’s Health The Pill for Men Men’s contraceptive may be available in the coming years. Will men take it?

By Deborah Jeanne Sergeant

C

ontraception has largely been dependent upon women — they are the ones who have to come up with barrier methods: spermicidal preparations or hormonal implants, patches, injections, vaginal rings or pills.

But researchers want to change that.

Men’s oral contraceptive — dimethandrolone undecanoate (DMAU) — may be available in the coming years.

The Journal of Clinical Endocrinology and Metabolism recently published research indicating that initial tests involving a small population — 100 men aged 18 to 50 — indicate no serious adverse events and that the medication was “well tolerated.”

Eighty-two of the men completed the double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled study, which lasted 28 days.

DMAU suppresses testosterone in men’s testicles so their sperm do not develop. That impedes their ability to impregnate women.

Beyond safety and efficacy, the successful use of DMAU also lies in compliance: will men take a daily pill that decreases testosterone, the main hormone that makes men masculine?

Physician David Gentile with University of Rochester Medical Center’s department of urology, calls this a “new area in pharmacology and in society. Imagine men actually taking responsibility for contraception!”

Wry joking aside, he’s not certain that men will embrace taking medication that “results in near castrate levels of testosterone, an increase in non-lean body weight, and some increase in cholesterol.”

Though women’s oral contraception has been known for decades to cause weight gain, increased risk

of stroke (particularly to those over 35 and smokers), and other negative side effects, it’s still the most popular means of contraception. About 25% of women who use contraception of any kind use the pill. The next closest reversible contraception method is the male condom (14.6%), followed by the intrauterine device (11.8%).

Men taking medication like DMAU could relieve women from the risks of taking hormonal contraception. Not all women are good candidates for contraceptive medication or devices, and some couples don’t prefer spermicide or condoms.

Men would also gain more control over their paternity, since they don’t have to rely on their partner’s ability to remember to take a pill, use spermicide correctly or keep her other contraceptive delivery method up-to-date.

“As it is now, men must accept the word of their partners that they are practicing contraception,” Gentile said.

“If there are any trust issues within a given relationship, this might prove reassuring to men,” he added.

Controlling conception can help new husbands delay starting a family, for example, even if their wives are more inclined to have a baby right away. Gentile thinks medication like DMAU can affect other age groups.

“It is not uncommon for me to

see older men, perhaps divorced or widowed, who are very leery of establishing a new relationship because of fear of an unwanted pregnancy,” he said. “This would theoretically relieve that.”

Without having to use condoms, men could experience greater sexual spontaneity and, if they dislike condoms, more enjoyment. Men can delay paternity without canceling it altogether, unlike vasectomy, which is permanent sterilization.

Gentile isn’t sure that men will view the Man Pill’s advantages as outweighing its side effects. He said that the research so far claims DMAU reduces testosterone without association with typical symptoms of low testosterone, such as low libido, erectile dysfunction, depression, and fatigue.

“However I’d be concerned about the impact on cholesterol and the impact on bone health, reflected by bone mineral density,” he said. “I also find it hard to believe that there would not be strong objection by men to the almost certain emotional liability that would likely result from such low testosterone levels. Results at the gym will also be lacking, to which men would certainly voice objection.”

“On the whole I would not envision this drug taking off like the Viagras and Cialises of the world,” Gentile added.

What's in your medicine cabinet?

Know the risks associated with taking prescription pain medications.

• Don’t share your prescriptions.

• Safely dispose of all unused medications, for details on dates and locations visit www.monroecounty.gov/hhw • For specific heroin and prescription pain medication resources and to download the Opioid Task Force of Monroe County Brochure visit ncadd-ra.org/resources/opioidtask-force-of-monroe-county/

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www.ncadd-ra.org June 2019 •

IN GOOD HEALTH – Rochester / Genesee Valley Healthcare Newspaper

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Page 21

3 Diabetes Diet Myths You Need to Know

WE’RE HIRING! Trillium Health is growing, and we’re looking for candidates like YOU!

By Erin Goodrich

R

Currently recruiting: Community Outreach Specialist Rural (Monroe County) HARP HCBS Care Manager Medical Interpreter Spanish Patient Service Representative Pharmacy Central Support Assistant Referral Specialist Transportation Coordinator and more!

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.

Visit our website for details: HearingLossRochester.org

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

Reach Health Consumers, Providers Advertise with In Good Health Rochester’s Healthcare Newspaper

Call 585-421-8109

ecently diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes? For many, this can be a scary time, with an abundance of questions. As a registered dietitian and a diabetes educator, many patients say to me, “I don’t know what to eat. I’ve been afraid to eat anything!”

Indeed, that question is probably on the forefront of your mind if you or a loved one has diabetes. Patients often seek out dietary advice from various sources; however, there is a lot of misinformation about diet and diabetes on the internet and from well-meaning friends or family members. To help guide you on the right path, let’s debunk some common myths registered dietitians often hear when counseling patients: 1. “I don’t eat anything with sugar, so my blood glucose will be fine, right?”

Most people believe that if they avoid foods that are higher in sugar, glucose levels remain stable. Patients frequently avoid foods such as ice cream, cookies, soda, desserts, juice and even fruit. In reality, while these foods raise your blood glucose, they are part of a larger group called carbohydrates. Any food containing carbohydrate will affect your blood glucose.

2. “So carbs are bad for me now?”

Not true! This is usually the second question from patients once we discuss carbohydrates and their effect on blood glucose. While carbohydrates do break down and raise your blood glucose levels once digested, your body need this glucose. Glucose from food is the most readily available source of fuel for your body, and is needed for muscle and brain function (ever have a hard time concentrating once it gets close to lunchtime? This is your body telling you it needs a source of fuel). However, not all sources of carbohydrate are equal-

ly nutritious. The best carbohydrate choices are complex and unrefined.

These carbohydrates are high in fiber, which is harder for your body to digest and keeps you full for longer periods. Since your body digests fiber slowly, these foods have less of the spiking effect on blood glucose that you see with refined, processed carbohydrates. Good choices of high fiber carbs are whole grain breads, bran cereals, oatmeal, brown rice, quinoa, and whole grain pasta.

3. “Fruit is too high in sugar” Actually, sugar found in fruit is a natural source called fructose.

This differs from the processed sugar added to beverages and foods, which is predominately sucrose. Because fruit contains both fructose and fiber (which, remember, is hard for the body to break down, slowing digestion), fructose is broken down and absorbed into the blood stream at a slower rate than sucrose. Research shows that diets higher in fruit are associated with a lower risk of developing type 2 diabetes. Fruits choices rich in fiber include apples, strawberries, oranges, and pears.

If you are still feeling overwhelmed, seek help from reputable sources. Your health care provider can refer you to a registered dietitian to help you develop a meal plan that is right for you (remember, with diabetes there is no one size fits all).

Good online sources for accurate nutrition information include the American Diabetes Association or the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics websites.

Erin Goodrich is a dietitian and diabetes educator with Oak Orchard Community Health Center in Brockport.

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Georgetown Park is a beautifully-landscaped, park-like setting with luxurious apartments. It is a fantastic community designed for adults 55+. Located in Greece, New York, we offer a terrific location with easy access to nearby Downtown Rochester and Lake Ontario. You’ll find it all at Georgetown Park: a resort-style swimming pool, a fitness center, a cozy clubhouse, a library with fireplace, a beauty salon and spa, game room and a putting green! Our apartment homes feature amenities that you’ll love, including inside storage rooms, covered terraces and balconies, formal dining rooms, well-appointed kitchens, and we’re pet-friendly! Apartments starting at $950.

Call Georgetown Park today for a tour at 585-225-4480

Stop in and visit us at 510 DeGeorge, Greece, NY 14626-4843.

IN GOOD HEALTH – Rochester / Genesee Valley Healthcare Newspaper • June 2019

We would love to welcome you home!

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.

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June 2019 •

IN GOOD HEALTH – Rochester / Genesee Valley Healthcare Newspaper

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Page 23

Is Herbicide Safe?

By Deborah Jeanne Sergeant

I

f you want your property to look like the putting green at Pebble Beach, you might rid your lawn of pesky weeds with a glyphosate-based herbicide such as Roundup.

The popular brand introduced by Monsanto in 1973 has become a staple of groundskeepers, farmers and homeowners who want to kill weeds while keeping beneficial plants.

The European Food Safety Authority

(EFSA) and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) had stated that glyphosate is unlikely to pose a cancer risk to humans. However, in 2015, the World Health Organization’s research entity, International Agency for Research on Cancer, decided that Roundup was “probably carcinogenic” like other items such as red meat on its list of possibly carcinogenic items.

After a series of lawsuits were filed against Monsanto regarding Roundup’s use correlating with development of cancer, many consumers wonder about its safety.

The first notable case in the US was that of Dewayne Johnson (not the actor Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson), who received an award of $78 million because Monsanto did not offer enough warning of the product’s cancer risks.

Johnson worked as a groundskeeper and developed non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma after regularly using Roundup and Ranger Pro, another Monsanto herbicide.

The jury’s decision revolved around whether or not the company warned about health dangers, not that any dangers

were present.

For homeowners who use it sparingly once or twice a season as the package directs and with the proper safety equipment, any risk involved is likely less than for those who use it daily and without taking safety precautions.

“Their use is not to be taken lightly,” said Rochester-based physician Joanne Wu, who practices in Syracuse. “Their use is associated with inhalation, oral, and contact injury of our organs such lungs, brain, kidneys, liver and eyes. They are meant to keep our lawns beautiful but at a price.”

To remain on the safe side, physician Az Tahir, warns that people should be “very, very careful” about using glyphosate-based products.

Tahir practices holistic integrative medicine at Internal Medicine Internal Care in Henrietta.

“A number of animal studies have implicated herbicides as raising risk of cancer,” he said.

Anyone who chooses to use herbicides should use approved, well-fitting personal protective equipment to protect the eyes and cover the skin, and a face mask to avoid inhaling any mist.

Following the package directions on the package is also important to minimize the risk. More isn’t better.

If the formulation requires diluting, do so with care and per the package directions. Apply only what’s necessary where it’s advised to do so and avoid using it on windy days.

Users can also minimize the amount of chemical products

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Always have sneakers near the front door or at your desk for a quick, brisk walk during the day.

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IN GOOD HEALTH – Rochester / Genesee Valley Healthcare Newspaper • June 2019

sprayed by using organic herbicide (it’s most effective on small weeds) and strategic planting. Cover crops and mulching discourage weed growth, for example. Some gardeners use boiling water to wither weeds and keep areas prone to weeds mowed before weeds go to seed.

Wu also warned that eating produce grown with herbicides and pesticides can negatively affect health.

She and Tahir both advise eating organic. If that is not affordable, Tahir said to at least buy the “dirty dozen” organic. These are the produce categories identified by the Environmental Working Group as most likely to bear pesticide. The group doesn’t offer a list related to herbicides. The dirty dozen includes strawberries, spinach, kale, nectarines, apples, grapes, peaches, cherries, pears, tomatoes, celery and potatoes.

“The more organic, the better,” Tahir said. “We can know what chemicals are used. Organic is much, much better.”

The “clean fifteen” are items that pose the lowest risk when conventionally grown, including: avocadoes, sweet corn, pineapple, sweet peas (frozen), onions, papayas, eggplant, asparagus, kiwi, cabbage, cauliflower, cantaloupe, broccoli, mushrooms, and honeydew.

At www.roundup.com/en-us, Roundup offers an array of videos for selecting and using their products more safely. Organizations such as Northeast Organic Farming Association of New York (www.nofany.org) offers tips on how to grow things without chemical inputs.

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The Long-Term Care Benefit Many Veterans Are Missing Out On Dear Savvy Senior,

Seeking Aid Dear Seeking, The Veterans Administration does indeed have a little-known, underutilized benefit that can help wartime veterans and their surviving spouses pay for a variety of longterm care costs.

This benefit, called “Aid and Attendance,” is a special pension that’s paid in addition to a basic pension. It pays a maximum of $2,230 a month to married veterans; $1,881 a month to single veterans; or $1,209 a month to a surviving spouse.

The money is tax free, and can be used to pay for in-home care, assisted living and nursing home care.

Today, only around 230,000 veterans and survivors receiving Aid and Attendance, but millions more are eligible and either don’t know about it, or don’t think they can qualify for it.

Eligibility Requirements To qualify, your dad must have served at least 90 days of active military service with at least one day of service during a period of war, and not have been discharged dishonorably. Single surviving spouses of wartime vets are eligible if their marriage ended due to death.

In addition, your dad will also have to meet certain thresholds for medical and financial need to be eligible.

To qualify medically he must be either disabled, or over the age of 65 and need help with basic everyday living tasks such as eating, dressing, bathing or going to the bathroom.

Being blind or in a nursing home or assisted living facility due to mental disability also qualifies him. Single surviving spouses have no age restrictions, but they must require help with basic everyday living tasks to be eligible.

To qualify financially, your parents must have limited assets, under $127,061, excluding their home, vehicle and personal belongings. And their annual income (minus medical and long-term care expenses) cannot exceed the

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Maximum Allowable Pension Rate (MAPR), which in 2019 is $26,766 for a veteran and their spouse; $22,577 for a single veteran; and $14,509 for a surviving spouse.

To calculate your parent’s income qualifications, add up their income over the past year (including Social Security, pensions, interest income from investments, annuities, etc.), minus any out-of-pocket medical expenses, prescription drugs, insurance premiums and long-term care costs over that same period of time. If the final tally is under the MAPR, and he meets the other requirements, he should be eligible for aid.

How to Apply To learn more or to apply for Aid and Attendance, contact your regional VA benefit office (see Benefits.va.gov/benefits/offices.asp or call 800–827–1000) where you can apply in person. You can also apply by writing the Pension Management Center for your state (see Benefits. va.gov/pension/resources-contact. asp). You’ll need to include evidence, like VA Form 21-2680 (VA.gov/ vaforms) which your dad’s doctor can fill out that shows his need for Aid and Attendance.

If you need some help, you can appoint a Veteran Service Officer (VSO), a VA-accredited attorney or claims agent to represent your dad. See www.ebenefits.va.gov/ ebenefits/vso-search to locate someone.

If your dad is eligible, it will take between six and 12 months for his application to be processed, so be patient.

You should also know that if your dad’s Aid and Attendance application is approved, the VA will send a lump sum retroactive payment covering the time from the day you filed the application until the day it was approved. Then your dad receives monthly payments going forward.

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.

June 2019 •

CARE that CHANGES LIVES.

I have heard that the VA has a benefit that can help veterans and spouses with long-term care costs. We recently had to move my 86-year-old father — who served in the army nearly 60 years ago — into an assisted living facility, and my mom isn’t far behind. Can the VA help?

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IN GOOD HEALTH – Rochester / Genesee Valley Healthcare Newspaper

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Page 25

Ask St. Ann’s

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Controlling periodontal disease makes it possible to save and restore otherwise hopeless involved teeth.

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How Does ‘Life Enrichment’ Enhance Senior Living?

By Jenna Carson

T

ake a moment to think of something special in your life. Maybe it’s the smell of a favorite dish cooking. Maybe it’s your weekly card game with lifelong friends. Or maybe it’s a song you first heard with someone special.

These are the things that give our lives meaning; things that remain with us no matter what age we are.

In fact, just because we are growing older doesn’t mean we have to stop enjoying the things that are important to us.

In senior living communities, that’s what “life enrichment” is all about: finding sparks of joy that make our residents feel connected and alive. Talented senior care professionals can find ways to ignite those sparks by learning about residents’ interests and helping them experience that joy again. Bringing a paintbrush to an artist’s hand, the smell of fresh basil to a lifelong gardener, or the taste of homemade sauce to a home cook — the life enrichment coordinator creates opportunities that encompass all facets of an individual’s physical, social, intellectual, artistic and spiritual well-being.

At St. Ann’s Home, we did that recently when we created a St. Joseph’s Table at the request of our residents. An ancient Sicilian tradition, it is a means of honoring St. Joseph and expressing thanks for life’s blessings.

For many of our residents, the custom has been part of their lives since childhood.

Staff, residents and family members worked together to prepare huge loaves of bread and other foods for presentation at the altar. Savoia Pastry Shoppe provided the bread in traditional shapes including crosses and hearts. Working as a team, we formed an assembly line to wrap the loaves in plastic. As is often the case, the process was as important as the end result — it involved laughter, the sharing of memories and plenty of pats on the back.

This seemingly simple task made a huge impact. We had tapped into a

meaningful tradition in our residents’ lives and enabled them to partake in it once again. The looks of happiness on their faces said it all. (The celebration also involved the collection of non-perishables for the House of Mercy, broadening our impact).

A similar spark was ignited with St. Ann’s first resident fashion show, held in April and supported by our own Annie’s Angel Fund. As one resident put it, “Let’s show that our generation still has style!”

What began as a playful idea between a resident and a nurse became a full-blown red carpet event. Ten residents accepted the invitation to be our models. Stein Mart graciously loaned the fashions and accessories, selected with our models’ personal styles in mind. St. Ann’s Beauty Salon did the hair styling, family and friends served as nail technicians and makeup artists, and staff ensured our models were safe and comfortable as they walked (or wheeled) the red carpet. Refreshments, music and door prizes added to the festivities.

The show was a success on many levels. Perhaps the greatest was the feeling of empowerment our residents got from knowing they came up with an idea — something meaningful to them — and those who care about them came together to make it happen. For those of us in the field of life enrichment, that’s what it’s all about.

Jenna Carson, board-certified music therapist, is a life enrichment advocate who has been serving seniors at St. Ann’s Community for seven years. She can be reached at(585-697-6424 or jcarson@ mystanns.com.

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IN GOOD HEALTH – Rochester / Genesee Valley Healthcare Newspaper • June 2019

21.00 1 year $ 35.00 2 years

$

Ask The Social

Security Office

From the Social Security District Office

Sign up for Medicare and Estimate Medicare Costs

A

ffordable medical coverage is something everyone wants, especially as people age. Luckily, our nation has safeguards for workers as they get older. Millions of people rely on Medicare, and it can be part of your health insurance plan when you retire.

Medicare is available for people age 65 or older, as well as younger people who have received Social Security disability benefits for 24 months, and people with certain specific diseases. Two parts of Medicare are Part A (hospital insurance) and Part B (Medicare insurance). You are eligible for premium-free Part A if you are age 65 or older and you or your spouse worked and paid Medicare taxes for at least 10 years. Part B usually requires a monthly premium payment.

You can apply online for Medicare even if you are not ready to retire. Use our online application to sign up. It takes less than 10 minutes.

In most cases, once your application is submitted electronically, you’re done. There are no forms to sign and usually no documentation is required. Social Security will process your application and contact you if we need more information. Otherwise, you’ll receive your Medicare card in the mail.

You can sign up for Medicare at www.socialsecurity.gov/benefits/ medicare.

If you don’t sign up for Medi-

Q&A Q: I applied for disability benefits, but was denied. I’d like to appeal. Can I do it online?

A: Yes. In fact, the best way to file a Social Security appeal is online.

Our online appeal process is convenient and secure. Just go to www. socialsecurity.gov/disability/appeal to appeal the decision. For people who don’t have access to the internet, you can call us at 1-800-772-1213 (TTY 1-800-325-0778) to schedule an appointment to visit your local Social Security office to file your appeal.

Q: What is the purpose of Supplemental Security Income, or SSI? A: The purpose of SSI is to help aged, blind, and disabled people who have little income and few resources to support themselves. It provides financial assistance to meet basic needs for food, clothing, and shelter.

You can receive SSI even if you have not worked and paid into Social Security. SSI is a federal income supplement program funded by general tax

care during your initial enrollment window that begins three months before the birthday that you reach age 65 and ends three months after that birthday, you’ll face a 10 percent increase in your Part B premiums for every year-long period you’re eligible for coverage but don’t enroll.

You may not have to pay the penalty if you qualify for a special enrollment period (SEP). If you are 65 or older and covered under a group health plan, either from your own or your spouse’s current employment, you may have a special enrollment period during which you can sign up for Medicare Part B. This means that you may delay enrolling in Part B without having to wait for a general enrollment period and without paying the lifetime penalty for late enrollment. Additional rules and limits apply, so if you think a special enrollment period may apply to you, read our Medicare publication at www.socialsecurity.gov/pubs/, and visit the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services at Medicare.gov for more information.

Health and drug costs not covered by Medicare can have a big impact on how much you spend each year. You can also estimate Medicare costs using an online tool at www. medicare.gov/oopc/.

Keeping your healthcare costs down allows you to use your retirement income on other things that you can enjoy. Social Security is here to help you plan a long and happy retirement at www.socialsecurity.gov.

Even your choices will have choices.

There is no one-size-fits-all retirement. That’s why there is truly no end to the choices you’ll find when you live at The Village at Unity Retirement Community. You’ll have options upon options in wellness, fitness, dining, travel, social activities, and more.

We invite you to find out more at a complimentary lunch and tour. Call (585) 206-2103 to schedule.

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revenues (not Social Security taxes).

Find out more at www.socialsecurity. gov/ssi.

Q: I worked the first half of the year, but plan to retire this month. Will Social Security count the amount I earn for this year when I retire?

A: Yes. If you retire mid-year, we count your earnings for the entire year. We have a special “earnings test” rule we apply to annual earnings, usually in the first year of retirement. Under this rule, you get a full payment for any whole month we consider you retired regardless of your yearly earnings. We consider you retired during any month your earnings are below the monthly earnings limit, or if you have not performed substantial services in self-employment. We do not consider income earned, beginning with the month you reach full retirement age.

Learn more about the earnings test rule at www.socialsecurity.gov/retire2/rule.htm.

June 2019 •

IN GOOD HEALTH – Rochester / Genesee Valley Healthcare Newspaper

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H ealth News Chris Gorecki named Excellus’ new CFO Excellus BlueCross BlueShield (BCBS) announced that Christopher Gorecki, the company’s senior vice president of finance, will succeed Dorothy Coleman as the health plan’s executive vice president and chief fnancial officer (CFO) Gorecki effective July 1.

Coleman has accepted a position with one of the largest health plans in the BlueCross BlueShield system and will be leaving the organization at the end of June. She joined Excellus BCBS in 2011 and has been actively involved in Upstate New York communities, serving on several community boards.

Gorecki has more than 30 years health care and finance experience with PricewaterhouseCoopers, Cigna and Blue Shield California. He joined the Excellus BCBS in 2014 as senior vice president of finance. He led and supported collaborative efforts to improve medical expense trend projections and accuracy, achieve company-wide administrative efficiencies, achieve improvements in underwriting practices, and improve the accuracy of budgeting and forecasting.

“Under Chris’ leadership, our business has become more predictable as well as more agile, quicker to identify and respond to unforeseen changes,” said Chris Booth, Excellus president and CEO. “Chris also actively supports efforts to engage employees in our corporate culture, leading by example. For over a decade, he has passionately supported the work of the American Diabetes Association, in particular the annual Tour de Cure event.”

“Dorothy’s tenure at the company has been marked by a mod-

ernization of finance that improved financial performance across nearly every measure,” Booth said. “We are grateful for Dorothy’s work with our health plan and for her contributions to our community. We wish her the very best going forward.”

This award is truly an honor, but it is a reflection of the amazing team and caring individuals who make our organization great. Our people make all the difference.”

The Rochester affiliate of the National Human Resources Association presented Rochester’s sixth annual HR Executive of the Year award to Bob Bourg, senior vice president of human resources at St. Ann’s Community.

Bourg began his career with St. Ann’s Community in Bourg 1999, and he has served as the senior VP of human resources since 2017.

For him, what makes an exceptional HR executive is the ability to maintain perspective at all times.

“It is easy to forget that everyone has different experiences and a unique perspective,” says Bourg.

“They may not be the same as ours, but must be valued and respected.

That’s how you build a great organization.”

The HR Executive of the Year award honors human resource professionals who are innovative, and are consistently preparing their organization for the future. Award recipients make significant contributions and have a positive impact to their organization, the HR industry, and the community as a whole. They demonstrate leadership, innovation, and operational excellence, all while inspiring others to excel.

“We have an HR team that cares about every single person who works at St. Ann’s,” Bourg said. “I am extremely fortunate to be part of such a talented, engaged, and fun group.

health care: integrating lifestyle medicine into the primary care/ family medicine setting.

Lifestyle medicine is a new health care specialty that focuses on improving diet, Graff physical activity, sleep habits and stress management while reducing harmful habits such as smoking, excessive alcohol use and recreational drugs.

It can help patients prevent, reverse or even cure chronic conditions like diabetes and heart disease.

Kerry Graff, a longtime primary care or family medicine physician, recently joined Rochester Regional Health for the opportunity to better-combine primary care with lifestyle medicine. She is one of the first 500 board-certified lifestyle medicine providers in the world.

Graff is working with other RRH primary care providers to help them adopt this new, innovative approach for patients who want the education and support necessary to improve their lifestyle.

“We are trying to create a total shift in how primary care operates,” Graff explained. “When patients start adopting lifestyle medicine principles, they start treating the cause of their chronic disease. In many cases they lower, or even eliminate, their reliance on drugs that are only meant to manage chronic conditions such as Type 2 diabetes, hypertension and heart disease.”

RRH introduces lifestyle Bob Bourg selected as HR medicine specialty Rochester Regional Health is executive of the year leading a new shift in American

Dr. Lisa Smith Named President of Medical Society

L

isa Smith, a Rochester-based internist and pediatrician, was elected to serve as president of Monroe County Medical Society during the 2019-2020 period.

Smith completed her combined internal medicine-pediatric residency at URMC in 1999. She is dual board certified and a fellow in the American College of Physicians.

She recently joined the Primary Care Network

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at URMC after nearly 20 years in private practice at Ridgewood Med Peds in Greece.

As a clinical instructor, she has been teaching internal medicine/pediatrics (med-peds) residents during continuity clinic and practice-based rotations throughout her career.

Smith has been a member of Monroe County Medical Society since 1999 and a board member since 2014. She was a delegate to the Medical Society State of New York (MSSNY) house of delegates in 2018.

She previously served on the Rochester General Physician Organization board of directors from 2007 to 2016.

She also enjoys her membership in the George Washington Corner Society for the History of Medicine as well as her long term involvement in P.E.O., a women’s Philanthropic

Education Organization.

Other officers In addition to her appointment, the Monroe County Medical Society also welcomed other officers at the society’s 198th annual meeting on May 1. They are: President-elect: Edith Grannum, a family practice physician in solo practice at The Family Medicine Practice of Edith Grannum MD; • Secretary, Susan Danahy, a board-certified diagnostic radiologist at Borg & Ide Imaging; • Treasurer, Christine Chruscicki, a double board-certified child, adolescent, and adult psychiatrist.

• Member-at-large: J. Chad Teeters, executive medical director of accountable health partners and a practicing cardiologist and chief of

IN GOOD HEALTH – Rochester / Genesee Valley Healthcare Newspaper • June 2019

While not all chronic and non-communicable diseases can be prevented, the Centers for Disease Control & Prevention estimate that approximately 80 percent of health problems in the U.S. are caused by three lifestyle patterns: the standard American diet, a sedentary lifestyle and smoking.

Hurlbut’s Charmaine Cooke is LPN of the Year Charmaine Cooke, an assistant nurse manager at The Hurlbut Nursing & Rehabilitation in Rochester, has received the 2019 Licensed Practical Nurse of the Year Award from the New York State Health Facilities Association/ Cooke New York State Center for Assisted Living (NYSHFA/NYSCAL). The award was presented May 7 at an awards banquet during the association’s annual conference in Verona.

Cooke has worked at The Hurlbut Nursing & Rehabilitation for 28 years. She started as a certified nursing assistant in 1990.

According to a news release from Hurlbut, Cooke is a true example of dedication, hard work and clinical growth. She made every stride to grow in her clinical professionalism and became a licensed practical nurse in 1994. She is currently working toward getting her RN degree. Cooke has also been nominated for employee of the month multiple times.

“Charmaine has a passion for nursing and clinically empowers not only herself but empowers all staff so that they positively impact the lives of our residents,” said Kimberley Danzig, administrator of The Hurlbut Nursing & Rehabilitation. “We are proud that she has been honored with this prestigious award from NYSHFA/NYSCAL.” cardiology at Highland Hospital; • Member-at-large: Balazs Zsenits, an internist who also serves as chief medical information officer at Rochester Regional Health; and • Immediate past president: Surinder Devgun, a gastroenterologist at Rochester Gastroenterology Associates, LLP; The new board of censors are (all physicians) Wade Hedegard, Shylasree Krishnan, Joseph Fullone, Matthew Witmer, Rachael Wojtovich and Lori Medeiros.

Delegates to the Medical Society of the State of New York are (all physicians) Arthur Hengerer, Allison Giordano, Raymond Lanzafame, John McIntyre.

New hospital representatives (all physicians) are: James Haley, Unity; Jennifer Muniak, Highland; Robert M. Kerper, Strong Memorial; and Derek J. tenHoopen, Rochester General.

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LIFE CHANGING MEDICINE, MOVING MEDICINE FORWARD

IN GOOD HEALTH – Rochester / Genesee Valley Healthcare Newspaper • June 2019

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TACFL would like to help you create safer, healthier environments for your communities, tenants, and visitors.

Contact TACFL if you would like information and/or support to create a tobacco-free environment in Ontario, Seneca, Wayne, or Yates Counties. We have tools to support the process from start to finish, including local data, resources, and policy review. www.smokefreefingerlakes.com June 2019 •

IN GOOD HEALTH – Rochester / Genesee Valley Healthcare Newspaper

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IN GOOD HEALTH – Rochester / Genesee Valley Healthcare Newspaper • June 2019