A wellness magazine from Bayhealth | FALL 2020 | KENT–SUSSEX
Breathing new life after years of back pain
Always safe. Always open. Welcome Back At Bayhealth, your safety is always top of mind. No matter the circumstance, we have always been and will always be open to care for you. We're now welcoming back patients for diagnostic and lab procedures, elective surgeries, doctors' appointments, and more. Your visit may look a little different than what you’re used to, as you’ll go through a screening and will need to wear a mask — all to keep you safe. We encourage you not to delay care if you need it. And know you can get it here, safely. We thank you for your understanding during this transition. For complete details, please visit: BAYHEALTH.ORG/WELCOMEBACK
Healthwaves is a quarterly publication of Bayhealth. The information is intended to inform and educate. It’s not a substitute for consultation with a physician. Always consult your physician for individualized care. Bayhealth complies with applicable federal civil rights laws and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, disability, or sex. If you have questions, please call JoAnn Davis at 302-744-7405. Bayhealth’s TDD or State Relay number is 866-237-0174. TERRY M. MURPHY, FACHE President and CEO, Bayhealth
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AMANDA DOWNES Writer, Healthwaves
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BAYHEALTH HOSPITAL, KENT CAMPUS
BAYHEALTH HOSPITAL, SUSSEX CAMPUS
640 South State Street Dover, DE 19901 302-674-4700
100 Wellness Way Milford, DE 19963 302-422-3311
IN THIS ISSUE... Feature story:
4B reathing
new life after years of back pain
Pictured on cover: John Birney was on duty as a paramedic when he suffered a spinal injury. The pain was so intense that he was forced to retire. After several failed attempts to find pain relief, Birney needed to find answers. With the help of Neurosurgeon Amit Goyal, MD, Birney finally found the relief he was searching for.
6 Prediabetic? Awareness, lifestyle changes may reverse disease
15 Help at home for COPD
7 Diabetes resources
16 Robin’s journey of discovery and transformation
8 Innovative hip replacement surgery leaves Pam’s tissue and muscle intact
18 Internal Medicine Residency Program earns ACGME accreditation
10 Not your run-of-the-mill heart walk
19 UME program is a continued boon for students in its second year
11 How to make the most of your telehealth appointment 12 Howard’s instant lifesaving care 14 Making sure care has a partner
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20 Expanding services in Sussex 22 Recognizing the record-breaking support of our community
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Patient Story
Breathing new life after years For ten years, debilitating back pain was part of John Birney’s daily life. It affected his stance and ability to walk, eventually forcing him to give up a job he loved as a paramedic and go on disability. When it got so bad he couldn’t move at all, he was taken to the Bayhealth Emergency and
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Trauma Center, Kent Campus where he met Bayhealth Neurosurgeon Amit Goyal, MD. Birney’s current state and the fact he’d had a back operation indicated he might be a candidate for robotic spine surgery, but diagnostic images and a subsequent office visit allowed Dr. Goyal to thoroughly assess
his condition and discuss treatment options. His journey began in 2009, when Birney was injured on the job while lifting a patient. He was referred to a large academic medical center out of state where a spinal fusion surgery still left him with back pain that worsened over time.
NEED A DOCTOR? VISIT BAYHEALTH.ORG/FIND-A-DOCTOR OR CALL 1-866-BAY-DOCS (229-3627).
of back pain “I’d gotten used to living with the pain, but could hardly do anything and depended on my family a lot. I tried to avoid pain medication because as a paramedic, I saw firsthand what opioids can do to people,” he said. Dr. Goyal offered some conservative treatments first, including physical therapy and a steroid injection, but they didn’t help. An MRI confirmed severe stenosis in Birney’s lumbar spine above his past fusion. “It’s not uncommon to see the fused area is fine, but the level above or below has degenerated, causing nerve pressure,” Dr. Goyal said. “It became clear the pain had taken over John’s life and surgery was the right path for him.” Fortunately for Birney, Bayhealth had the ExcelsiusGPS® robotic spine system, having been the first in Delaware to offer the revolutionary technology. Using real-time display of medical images and GPS mapping, the system’s robotic arm aids the neurosurgeon in implanting hardware with near-perfect precision. It’s ideal in cases like Birney’s where an operation has altered the spinal anatomy. It can facilitate a minimally invasive approach in some cases with smaller incisions and less scarring, and is safer and poses less complication risk than
traditional back surgery. Other typical advantages are a faster recovery and shorter hospital stay. Dr. Goyal performed a laminectomy to remove bone and soft tissue that was compressing the nerves and then used robot assistance to extend Birney’s fusion with new screw and rod placement. While Dr. Goyal expected the surgery would improve his quality of life, he said Birney’s outcome was optimal. “His pain improved dramatically right away. He’s now standing up much straighter since his nerves have more room.” After a smooth recuperation, Birney was able to get back to activities he couldn’t do for years. “I thought the operation might give me some relief, but I was totally amazed how well it worked.” He describes his life now as completely pain-free. He’s taking two-mile-long walks and planning his next hunting trip since he can handle the physical side of the sport again. He was glad to return to his camp master responsibilities with a
local scouting organization and resume teaching CPR classes in the community, which he’d stopped when he could no longer bend to demonstrate techniques to his students. “Dr. Goyal was straightforward and made me feel comfortable about the surgery,” said Birney. “The difference has been like night and day. A whole new world has opened up since the surgery and I couldn’t be happier with the result.” He described his overall Bayhealth experience as a very positive one, from start to finish. “I’ve had procedures at a lot of hospitals and some very well-known ones, and was really impressed with the care I received at Bayhealth. All my questions were answered, any needs I had were immediately taken care of. The whole process was excellent.” ■
VISIT BAYHEALTH.ORG/ROBOTIC-SPINE-SURGERY TO LEARN MORE ABOUT THE BAYHEALTH NEUROSURGERY TEAM AND VIEW A VIDEO ABOUT THIS PROCEDURE.
HEALTHWAVES FALL 2020
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Health & Wellness
PREDIABETIC?
AWARENESS, LIFESTYLE CHANGES MAY REVERSE DISEASE KNOW YOUR RISKS Risk factors for type 2 diabetes include being overweight, living a sedentary lifestyle, being over 45 years in age, having an immediate family member with diabetes, and being a woman who has had gestational diabetes.
FOLLOW RECOMMENDATIONS Follow a lifestyle recommended for someone with type 2 diabetes. There are local prevention programs to help. Some programs are free. Programs with a cost are often covered by insurance.
STOP SMOKING Delaware residents can find support for breaking the smoking habit through Delaware Quitline at 1-866-409-1858.
LOSE A LITTLE WEIGHT Losing even just five to seven percent of body weight can be very helpful.
GET ACTIVE The American Heart Association, the American Cancer Society and the American Diabetes Association recommend moderateintensity activity for 30 minutes a day at least five times a week. Even a brisk walk makes a big difference.
Has your healthcare provider told you that you have prediabetes? If so, you’re not alone. According to state health officials, more than 85,400 Delaware residents over the age of 18 have diabetes and an additional 94,628 have prediabetes. The reality is, many people could have prediabetes and not even know it! Bayhealth Diabetes Care and Education Specialist Cynthia Pajerowski, BSN, RN, CDCES, says the simplest way to define diabetes is difficulty regulating blood sugar. It’s important for anyone who has concerns about their blood sugar to talk to their doctor about getting checked. Many people with issues regulating their blood sugar don’t have any symptoms. The good news is, there are changes that you can make to prevent prediabetes from developing into type 2 diabetes. “We want people to succeed. Support is important,” said Pajerowski. “I tell people they can call us any time. While we do not see patients with prediabetes, we can direct them where to go for help.” ■
CALL BAYHEALTH’S DIABETES WELLNESS CENTER AT 302-744-6307 TO LEARN MORE ABOUT PREDIABETES OR DIABETES MANAGEMENT.
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NEED A DOCTOR? VISIT BAYHEALTH.ORG/FIND-A-DOCTOR OR CALL 1-866-BAY-DOCS (229-3627).
Diabetes Resources The Bayhealth Diabetes Wellness Center located at Wolf Creek can help patients control their diabetes. Along with endocrinologists, Bayhealth’s team of diabetes educators includes nurses, pharmacists and a dietitian who specialize in diabetes and provide the following resources and services. DIABETES AND YOU Bayhealth proudly offers an education program that is recognized by the American Diabetes Association and that meets the National Standards for Diabetes Self-Management Education and Support. Our Diabetes and You series teaches you about diabetes self-care and gives you the tools you need to manage your diabetes. We offer classes and individual appointments. MEDICAL NUTRITION THERAPY
The pharmacist will teach you about your diabetes, particularly your diabetes medications. He or she will review your blood sugars with you and may adjust your medications for better control. GESTATIONAL DIABETES MANAGEMENT Gestational diabetes occurs only in pregnant women and usually disappears after childbirth. This program teaches you about meal planning, blood glucose monitoring, exercise, medications, and more, so you and your baby can be as healthy as possible.
GETTING STARTED A referral from the doctor who manages your diabetes care is required. Your healthcare provider and diabetes educator will help you choose the program that best fits your needs. Day and evening appointments are available. Preregistration and an initial assessment are required for all diabetes education. There is a fee for these programs and many insurance carriers offer an education benefit that typically covers this service. â–
Our dietitian will provide you with information that will help you manage your diabetes through a healthy lifestyle. You'll be able to choose foods that are healthy and taste good, too! PHARMACIST-GUIDED DIABETES MANAGEMENT As part of the educational program, a pharmacist specializing in diabetes care will work closely with you and your doctor to help you manage your diabetes.
HEALTHWAVES FALL 2020
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Patient Story
Innovative hip replacement surgery leaves Pam’s tissue and muscle intact Pam Glick knows a good surgeon when she meets one. She’s had more than a dozen surgeries due to her osteoarthritis. After moving from Chicago to Lewes, Delaware, nearly nine years ago, she became a patient at a local orthopaedic practice. In 2019, the nagging discomfort she’d felt and tried to address with physical therapy had turned into excruciating pain in her right hip. She couldn’t walk or even stand for very long, let alone play pickleball, ride a bike or do other activities she enjoyed. The 69-year-old had plans to officiate her best friend’s wedding only a few months away. She was concerned about being able to fulfill this honor, particularly after her left hip started hurting too. Yet, she was determined to find a solution and overcome her latest health obstacle. After consulting with providers and doing her own research, Glick knew an anterior total hip
replacement was the right option for her. With this innovate approach, the surgeon makes a small incision in the front of the hip and separates muscle tissue to access the joint, leaving surrounding muscles intact. This differs from traditional hip replacement surgery with entry in the back or side of the hip where muscle and tissue has to be cut. The anterior approach typically results in reduced pain and a speedier recovery with less time in the hospital. Glick hadn’t received care from Bayhealth before, but the anterior hip surgery approach offered at the Sussex Campus and Bayhealth Orthopaedics Surgeon Trinity Pilkington, MD, both came highly recommended. “In my first visit with Dr. Pilkington, I instantly knew I could trust him,” said Glick. “You can tell he’s an amazing surgeon, but is so easy to talk to, friendly and caring — he’s the whole package.”
X-rays confirmed that both of her hips needed to be replaced. Dr. Pilkington recommended a bilateral anterior total hip replacement in which both hips are surgically replaced during the same hospitalization, with a day of recovery in between. Glick followed all the pre-surgery steps, including attending Bayhealth’s preoperative Total Joint Class, which helps patients prepare for surgery and know what to expect afterwards. “The class was awesome. Everything leading up to surgery, in the hospital and with my follow-up care was exceptionally smooth,” she said. Dr. Pilkington said it’s very important to verify again, after the first surgery, that a patient is still ready to go forward with the second operation. For Glick, who was up and walking more than 350 steps the same afternoon her first hip was replaced, it was an unequivocal yes. After the second surgery, she could easily bend
IS ANTERIOR HIP SURGERY RIGHT FOR YOU? When persistent hip pain due to arthritis limits your daily activities, and conservative methods of treatment fail to provide relief, the minimally invasive anterior approach to hip replacement may be the perfect fit for you. Call 1-866-BAY-DOCS to be matched with one of our surgeons who performs the anterior hip surgery procedure.
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Trinity Pilkington, MD
John Burger, DO
Anthony Falvello, DO
NEED A DOCTOR? VISIT BAYHEALTH.ORG/FIND-A-DOCTOR OR CALL 1-866-BAY-DOCS (229-3627).
and walk around the same day, and the debilitating pain she’d suffered for so long was immediately gone. “There’s less risk of the replacement popping out of place with the anterior approach, so Pam had no post-surgery restrictions and could resume activities quickly,” said Dr. Pilkington. Glick said she was astonished by the difference before and after the surgeries. After doing everything Dr. Pilkington and the physical therapy team recommended in her rehabilitation, she reached her goal, officiating her dear friend’s wedding just four and a half weeks after her surgeries — outside and on cobblestones, without a cane and wearing short heels, no less! She was also amazed by the seamless integration of her care. “It was like a choreographed dance around making me well as quickly as possible. There was never a time when the staff didn’t work really, really well with each other,” said Glick. “I knew the nurses genuinely cared about how I felt and responded as quickly as possible. It was special — I haven’t found that elsewhere at the level I did at Bayhealth.” Glick said having this procedure was one of the best decisions she’s ever made. “I can do so many things now that I couldn’t even dream of doing for a good portion of my 60s. Dr. Pilkington gave me a new start at life.” ■
HEALTHWAVES FALL 2020
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Our Community
NOT YOUR RUN-OF-THE-MILL
HEART WALK For many years Bayhealth has been a sponsor and supporter of the American Heart Association’s Southern Delaware Heart Walk. In a typical year, there are Southern Delaware Heart Walk events in Dover and Rehoboth Beach. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, this year’s Heart Walk events were held virtually. Walkers from across the state gathered online to take part in a week of activities that culminated with the virtual walk in early October. “While this year’s event looked different than our previous events, Bayhealth continued its commitment to helping the American Heart Association raise money that helps save lives in our communities,” said Senior Director of Operations for the Cardiovascular Service Line Greg Springer. “It was impressive to see the way our team members came together to continue their support for this important cause.”
As in years past, this year Bayhealth employees formed teams with coworkers, family and friends to fundraise together. Every walker that reached a certain fundraising target received a Heart Walk 2020 Bayhealth T-shirt. This year’s T-shirt design (pictured above) was a tribute to the unique times we’re experiencing. The front of the shirt proudly displayed the #BayhealthStrong hashtag that has been used and celebrated
VISIT HEART.ORG/SOUTHERNDEWALK TO LEARN MORE ABOUT HOW YOU CAN GET INVOLVED IN NEXT YEAR’S WALK.
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throughout COVID-19. The back of the shirt featured this year’s T-shirt design. “The Heart Walk is an event that allows the community to honor those who have been affected by heart disease,” said Springer. “While we continue to navigate our new normal during COVID-19, I’m so glad our team members continued to participate in such a great fundraising activity.” ■
Expanded Service
How to make the most of your telehealth appointment Family Medicine Physicians Andrea Arellano Vu, MD, and Kenny Vu, MD, were exploring an avenue to treat patients who couldn’t easily come to the office, due to work schedules, transportation issues, being bed-bound, anxiety over leaving home, or other challenges. Well before the COVID-19 outbreak, they had looked into telehealth and were ready to accelerate plans into action in mid-March. A virtual visit should be just as meaningful and productive as a traditional office visit. Some preparation can help acclimate you to the process and set the stage for success. They offer five tips to make the most of your telehealth visit. GET CLEAR INSTRUCTIONS FOR THE PLATFORM
PREPARE AN APPROPRIATE SETUP
Your doctor’s office should explain their system, assure you it’s secure and get your consent. Ask staff to walk you through steps to use it, if you’re unsure, or to help troubleshoot any technical difficulties.
Find a comfortable space free of noise and distractions and with good lighting. The camera shouldn’t face a light source, or your face will be hard to see. If necessary, prop up the device so it’s stable and you’re in full screen view. Some may want to have a caregiver present or nearby to assist in sharing or noting information.
DO YOUR MEDICAL PREP WORK IN ADVANCE Check and note your temperature, pulse, weight — and for some, blood pressure or sugar levels too — to share with your provider. Prepare a written list of symptoms or questions, as you might for an in-person visit, so those topics are covered. Have your medications out or a list of what you’re taking ready. For a skin rash or mole you want checked out, take and send a photo beforehand since it may not be seen as clearly on video.
GET AN AFTER-VISIT SUMMARY AND GIVE FEEDBACK You may receive post-visit details or ask for a recap of important points or next steps. Share your input on how it worked for you. This can help to enhance your future telehealth experiences. ■
TEST YOUR TECHNOLOGY Have your computer, tablet or mobile device fully charged. Do a test run ahead of time to ensure you can log in without issue. Check the speaker volume and wear headphones if there’s an echo.
HEALTHWAVES FALL 2020
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Patient Story
Howard’s instant lifesaving care Waking up one Monday morning to go to work, Howard Schumacher noticed his coordination was off. He kept spilling his coffee and had trouble when he tried to get dressed a few minutes later. He knew something was wrong. After Schumacher arrived at Bayhealth Hospital, Kent Campus and was evaluated by Emergency and Trauma Center team members, Bayhealth Interventional Neurologist and Medical Director of Neurology Sumeet Multani, MD, was called in for a stroke consult. An angiogram revealed Schumacher had a sizable blood clot in his middle cerebral artery. As an active 55-year-old suddenly unable to do routine tasks, he said he felt nervous not knowing what would happen, but knew he was in very good hands at Bayhealth. Schumacher underwent an emergency thrombectomy, a sophisticated interventional procedure in which Dr. Multani threaded a catheter, a thin hollow tube, through a small incision in the groin to access the blood vessel. This minimally invasive technique uses advanced imaging and equipment to guide the removal of the clot, restoring blood flow and oxygen to the brain. Bayhealth provides care for a range of neurological and vascular neurological conditions. Both
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Bayhealth hospitals have earned accolades for reducing the time between a patient’s arrival at the hospital and treatment with tissue plasminogen activator (tPA), the only FDA-approved drug to treat stroke. This clot-buster reduces stroke effects when given no more
field. These neurointerventions, as they’re also called, can address many blood vessel abnormalities in the head and neck. When time is so critical with stroke, aneurysms or brain bleeds, patients can get needed care at Bayhealth without the delay of having to travel to a larger medical center. “A swift intervention makes a significant difference in a patient’s outcome by minimizing brain damage that can lead to permanent disability,” said Dr. Multani. “On the stroke scale, Howard’s condition was rated a 15 upon initial evaluation and was reduced to a four just a couple hours after the thrombectomy.”
than four and a half hours after symptoms first appear, and ideally within three hours. A thrombectomy can be used instead of or in addition to tPA to lessen a patient’s chance of disability. Schumacher was the first Bayhealth patient to receive this lifesaving treatment after interventional neurology programs were introduced earlier this year. Dr. Multani is among an elite group of neurologists — fewer than 500 nationwide — who are fellowship-trained and boardcertified in this highly specialized
With the severity of Schumacher’s blood clot, this procedure drastically turned around his outcome. His deficits in coordination and speech that first resulted from the blockage were reversed soon afterwards. For many stroke patients, rehabilitation involves occupational, physical and speech therapy to regain and further improve affected areas of function. A 15-year Dover resident, Schumacher is glad Bayhealth is close by and took great care of him when he needed it most. He has follow-up appointments with Bayhealth Neurology and is taking it easy at home on his road to recovery. “I’m getting my
NEED A DOCTOR? VISIT BAYHEALTH.ORG/FIND-A-DOCTOR OR CALL 1-866-BAY-DOCS (229-3627).
strength back day by day, but this experience has taught me the importance of slowing down and listening to my body. Instead of constantly being on the go, I’m taking time to smell the roses and enjoy life.” ■
Bayhealth Hospital, Kent Campus and Bayhealth Hospital, Sussex Campus have received the American Heart Association/American Stroke Association’s Get With The Guidelines® Stroke Gold Plus Quality Achievement Award — the highest level of this national awards program — for the second consecutive year. This achievement demonstrates Bayhealth’s strong commitment in treating stroke based on the most up-to-date guidelines and latest scientific evidence. Both hospitals, designated as Primary Stroke Centers, also received the Association’s Target: Stroke Elite Honor Roll award for meeting quality measures developed to reduce the time between a patient’s arrival at the hospital and treatment with the clot-buster tissue plasminogen activator, or tPA, the only drug approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration to treat ischemic stroke.
VISIT BAYHEALTH.ORG/NEUROSCIENCES FOR MORE INFORMATION ON OUR TEAM AND SERVICES WE OFFER.
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Our Community
Making sure care has a partner Caregivers are essential to every patient’s healing process. Through Bayhealth’s Care Partner program, anyone age 18 and older admitted to the hospital is asked to designate a care partner and give their contact information. Beyond the nurses, physicians and other staff that provide direct care in the medical setting, care partners may be any adult family member, significant other or friend who will be involved in the patient’s care and serve as a spokesperson on their behalf. The COVID-19 pandemic unfortunately led to restrictions in having others be physically
present with patients during hospitalization. However, a care partner’s role outside the hospital is equally important. By preparing for a patient’s discharge and providing aftercare, they are facilitating their continued recovery. The work of care partners also helps patients avoid any complications that might put them back in the hospital. Care partners support the patient and their various needs, enabling them to recuperate comfortably back at home and focus on getting well. Bayhealth staff provides care partners with a comprehensive discharge plan and instructions to educate them on assisting patients with prescriptions and aftercare tasks. Depending on a patient’s condition, this might encompass basics such as helping them dress,
eat and move around. It might also mean providing emotional or spiritual support. “Care partners are among the most pivotal people in a patient’s recovery,” said Clinical Educator Karen Merson, MSN, RN, NE-BC. “Patients are given a tremendous amount of information in the hospital — on medications, diet and wound care. A care partner is that extra set of eyes, ears and hands to help once you get home.” Bayhealth invites care partner participation in a formal council structure that meets every other month at Kent and Sussex campuses. This Patient Partnership Council facilitates communication about care and helps identify practices that are working as well as intended. ■
TO LEARN MORE ABOUT CARE PARTNER PARTICIPATION, CALL OUR PLANETREE COORDINATOR AT 302-744-6640 OR PATIENT ADVOCACY AT 302-744-7085.
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NEED A DOCTOR? VISIT BAYHEALTH.ORG/FIND-A-DOCTOR OR CALL 1-866-BAY-DOCS (229-3627).
Health & Wellness
Help at home for COPD Difficulty breathing. Coughing. Shortness of breath. Chest tightness. These may sound like allergies or symptoms of common illnesses, but for people with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), they could be warning signs of an exacerbation of their condition. And for some, that could mean an emergency room visit or hospitalization. COPD is a chronic inflammatory lung disease that affects more than 16.4 million people in the U.S. If left untreated it can lead to irreversible lung damage and even death.
For many patients, successful management of their COPD is in their hands — often with the help of home healthcare professionals. The BAYADA Home Health Care at Bayhealth team offers an interdisciplinary, comprehensive approach to managing care at home. It reinforces the patient education the hospital staff provides about your condition, including how to self-manage symptoms, detect signs of a flare-up or setback, and improve eating and exercise habits — all to help you live a healthier life with COPD. • Nurses review your prescriptions to ensure you are taking the right medications at the right
time; check to see you are using your nebulizer, inhaler and oxygen effectively; and coordinate care with your doctor, pharmacy, and you or your family. • Physical and occupational therapists work with you to improve your strength, conserve your energy and navigate your environment safely. • A dietitian is available to assist you with your nutritional plan for optimal health. You can live a healthier life with COPD, and our dedicated teams are here to help. ■
TO LEARN MORE ABOUT COPD AND THESE SERVICES, CALL 302-213-5030 OR VISIT BAYHEALTH.ORG/HOME-HEALTH-CARE.
HEALTHWAVES FALL 2020
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Patient Story
Robin’s journey of discovery and transformation At the age of 28, Delaware native Reverend Robin Hurley had a heart attack, an event that would mark the beginning of a long journey of discovery — in relation to her health as well as her overall purpose in life. “After my heart attack, I was put through every test and procedure imaginable and became guided by doctors.
Through those experiences I discovered a calling from the Lord and that I could no longer work,” said Hurley, who was living in Florida and working as an inventory specialist at a local hospital at the time.
In 2008, Hurley returned to Delaware and started seminary and pursuing the ministry with the United Methodist Church. She became a pastor in 2015 and currently has a three-point charge, meaning she serves three local churches. Last July, Hurley did a Wesleyan pilgrimage in England. While on the pilgrimage she met a pastor from the Midwest who had undergone a gastric bypass and lost 100 pounds. “Just seeing how he could easily walk six miles in one day motivated me. But I also watched how he was eating and asked him about his experience. What he shared was inspiring and he taught me a lot. I knew weight was always a problem for me and my heart, but it just seemed that no matter what I ate I couldn’t get a handle on it. I was so motivated and inspired by the other pastor that when I got back home I found Dr. Barnett via an online search,” said Hurley, who weighed 242 pounds at the time.
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NEED A DOCTOR? VISIT BAYHEALTH.ORG/FIND-A-DOCTOR OR CALL 1-866-BAY-DOCS (229-3627).
That’s when the next chapter of Hurley’s journey began. After completing the initial steps of the Bayhealth Bariatric Program, which included attending an informational seminar with Bariatric Surgeon Thomas Barnett, MD, and meeting with Bariatric Program Coordinator Patty Deer, MSM, BSN, RN, CNOR, CBN, and a dietitian, Hurley went through the other components necessary to prepare her for a laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy, which she had in late December. “It was the easiest surgery I’ve ever been through, and I’ve had several heart-related surgeries,” said Hurley, when asked what the biggest surprise was during her surgical weight loss journey. “Dr. Barnett is very matter-of-fact and he helped me get my mind right about it, and Patty puts you at ease. In fact, 20 percent is about focusing on the lead-up to surgery with the nutrition programs and other steps, but 80 percent is accepting in your mind that this is a new way of life. Your waistline is also going to encourage you.” “My biggest fear was that I would fail,” continued Hurley. “I didn’t tell anybody about the surgery. I just took the day off. Since my
surgery, my congregation has helped keep me accountable to my goal, and I’ve been able to inspire others. I’m so pleased with the whole experience. I learned a lot about nutrition and the importance of focusing on protein. I’m maintaining my weight. I weigh myself morning and night and make adjustments to my diet as needed.” Hurley says her advice to anyone contemplating bariatric surgery is this: “Reach out and take the first step. Find out what your options are. Dr. Barnett and the rest of the team will guide you through the process. They are very attentive to each patient’s needs and are very supportive.” ■
MEET OUR TEAM Alice Miller, RD, LDN, is the registered dietitian for Bayhealth's Bariatric Program. Miller had an interest in health and nutrition from a young age, and her desire to help people lead healthier lives motivated her to obtain a degree in dietetics. Miller completed her BS in dietetics and her dietetic internship through the University of Delaware. She joined Bayhealth as a clinical dietitian in 2019. Patty Deer, MSM, BSN, RN, CNOR, CBN, is the coordinator of Bayhealth’s Bariatric Program. Deer has been helping patients navigate the surgical weight loss process for more than five years. She holds a baccalaureate degree in business administration from Sacred Heart University, a BSN from Salisbury University and an MSM from Wilmington University. She’s a certified registered operating room nurse and a certified bariatric nurse. Krissie McDaniel has been with Bayhealth for more than 20 years and currently serves as the office coordinator for the Bariatric Program.
INTERNAL MEDICINE RESIDENCY PROGRAM
EARNS ACGME ACCREDITATION Bayhealth’s Internal Medicine Residency Program recently earned accreditation by the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education (ACGME). The Internal Medicine Residency Program is led by Program Director Joseph Deutsch, MD (pictured front and center below). “I am honored to join Bayhealth as the Program Director for the Internal Medicine Residency Program,” said Dr. Deutsch. “I look forward to recruiting and developing the next generation of physicians here at Bayhealth. With the assistance of the talented physicians in this community, I’m
committed to providing training of the highest caliber so our residents can provide exceptional, valuable and meaningful care for this community.” Bayhealth first announced plans to develop medical education programs in 2018. In February 2020, the Bayhealth Family Medicine Residency Program was accredited by ACGME. The Family Medicine and Internal Medicine Residency programs will train licensed physicians who have recently graduated from medical school. The Family Medicine and Internal Medicine residencies will both start in July 2021.
Both the Family Medicine and Internal Medicine Residency programs will focus on innovation to prepare physicians to meet the needs and challenges of the future. Bayhealth’s residents will develop skills in physician leadership to become the best possible advocates for their patients. The Internal Medicine Residency Program will recruit 13 new resident physicians each year to the area. Residency training lasts for three years under the guidance of supervising physicians. In addition to providing hospital care at both Kent and Sussex campuses, the Internal Medicine Residency Program will provide more than 20,000 primary care visits to the community each year. ■
VISIT BAYHEALTHGME.ORG TO LEARN MORE ABOUT OUR UPCOMING RESIDENCY PROGRAMS AT BAYHEALTH.
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NEED A DOCTOR? VISIT BAYHEALTH.ORG/FIND-A-DOCTOR OR CALL 1-866-BAY-DOCS (229-3627).
UME program is a continued boon for students in its second year Bayhealth recently began its second year as a core clinical campus for Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine (PCOM). The first year of the program, 2019-2020, which had 11 medical students, proved so successful that this year, 15 students were brought into the program. The Undergraduate Medical Education (UME) program at Bayhealth, led by Chair Joseph Rubacky, DO, FAAFP, and Co-Chair Shalini Shah, MD, MPH, trains third-year medical students. The students complete 11 core rotations, each lasting one month. Each day, the students head to their specialty rotation where they follow a physician for four weeks, learning in a hands-on environment with real patients.
“These rotations have solidified what I have already learned in the classroom. The diseases and medicine make so much more sense seeing them in practice in real-life situations,” said fourth-year PCOM medical student Dominique Cross, referring to her third-year core rotations at Bayhealth. In July, Bayhealth welcomed 15 new third-year PCOM medical students. The organization hosted a special event with COVID-19 precautions in a large space at Bayhealth Hospital, Kent Campus. All attendees followed the hospital guidelines, including wearing masks and maintaining social distance whenever possible.
The students were welcomed formally with brief words by Bayhealth President and CEO Terry Murphy, FACHE, Bayhealth Chief Medical Officer and Designated Institutional Official Gary Siegelman, MD, MSc, and Dr. Rubacky. All three encouraged the students to grow, to learn and, most importantly, to care for the patients. The students are now a few months into their core rotations at Bayhealth. They are learning how to provide compassionate care to the patients of our community. While some will move elsewhere for residency, the goal is to promote interest in Bayhealth’s new Family Medicine and Internal Medicine residencies, both beginning in July 2021. ■
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Expanding services in Sussex The Nemours Building, Sussex Campus, located directly across from Bayhealth Hospital and Outpatient Center, is nearing completion, with an anticipated opening in late fall. Bayhealth will relocate several physician practices to the second and third floors of the building. Physician practices in the new building will include Women’s Care and Maternal-Fetal Medicine services, Bayhealth Urology, Otolaryngology (ENT), Endocrinology, Bariatrics, Primary Care, and Wound Care. The new facility will give the practices the additional space necessary to accept new patients.
will occupy the first floor of the facility and, at the time of opening, will offer pediatric primary care along with senior care services. The remainder of the Nemours pediatric specialty care services, including medical imaging and therapy services, will be available in April 2021. Nemours will offer on-site care for many specialties via their telemedicine platform until the full range of in-person services is available. The café on the first floor, Kaisy’s Delights, will reopen in late fall as the facility opens for services. Bayhealth continues to move forward with expansion plans throughout the southern region.
The continued growth is part of the healthcare system’s strategic plan to ensure patients have access to the latest services and technologies close to home. BAYHEALTH HOSPITAL, SUSSEX CAMPUS ADDRESSING GROWTH One year after opening its doors, Bayhealth Hospital, Sussex Campus saw an 8 percent growth in admissions and a 27 percent growth in observation cases, and often reached 100 percent occupancy between December 2019 and February 2020. Births increased by 30 percent over 2019.
Nemours Children’s Health System and Nemours SeniorCare
VISIT BAYHEALTH.ORG/NEMOURS-SUSSEX TO LEARN MORE ABOUT THE SERVICES OFFERED AT THE NEMOURS BUILDING, SUSSEX CAMPUS.
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As a result of the immediate growth, Bayhealth recently presented a Certificate of Public Review to the Delaware Health Resources Board requesting approval for the addition of up to 24 medical/surgical beds and five additional women’s services rooms, plus a C-section suite at the Bayhealth Hospital, Sussex Campus. “After our move to the new Bayhealth Hospital, Sussex Campus, we saw significant growth in our number of inpatients and patients under observation. The additional beds will help address our current and future occupancy concerns, and the C-section suite will provide an added convenience for our laboring patients,” said Bayhealth Senior Vice President of Planning and Business Development John Van Gorp.
The proposed beds would be placed in the existing shelled space located on the fifth floor of the hospital. The five new Women’s Services rooms would expand into space on the third floor that is currently housing administrative offices. There is also shelled space adjacent to the women’s services unit that was designed for a C-section suite. Bayhealth is proposing to finish the space to be able to provide C-sections on the unit, instead of sending patients to the operating rooms on the second floor for the service. Delaware Health Resources Board formed a subcommittee to review the COPR application.
ROUTE 9 FUTURE SITE Farther south, Bayhealth is expanding its services in Milton on 18 acres of land located at the intersection of Route 9 and Hudson Road. The new outpatient center will offer immediate care, imaging, lab, and expanded primary care services, as well as many Bayhealth specialty services, such as Neurosurgery and Orthopaedics. “We are excited to expand our footprint in southern Delaware,” said Bayhealth President and CEO Terry Murphy, FACHE. “As more services are available on an outpatient basis, this facility will allow Bayhealth to expand access to care, improve convenience and add choices for the rapidly growing population of consumers seeking high-quality healthcare services in Sussex County.” ■
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Recognizing the record-breaking support of our community Each spring, the Bayhealth Foundation conducts a direct mail campaign in which it asks previous donors and others in the community to consider making a monetary gift to support Bayhealth. “This year, when COVID-19 struck and we got a sense of what an enormous financial burden it was going to be on Bayhealth and how many people were eager to help their local community health system in this time of crisis, we decided to transition our outreach to email. The end result was the
largest and most successful spring fundraising effort that we’ve had in recent memory,” explained Bayhealth Foundation President Lindsay Rhodenbaugh. More specifically, Bayhealth received monetary contributions totaling more than $260,000. In addition, more than 250 gifts-in-kind were given to the organization. These monetary gifts and other donations — such as food for our staff, masks and other PPE, and hand sanitizer, to name a few examples — came from 145 individuals, families, businesses, and grantor agencies.
our u b sets to n r c s d e t a a on ll more th niforms d A &H U eam members. In a ed. t at dedicated pieces were don 200
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The monetary gifts were used to support Bayhealth staff and organizational COVID-19-related needs. “We always honor the wishes of our donors regarding how they want their monetary philanthropic support to be used,” said Rhodenbaugh. “So, this year when folks gave in recognition of COVID-19 challenges, we purchased local restaurant gift cards that were distributed to our caregivers and other employees as well as PPE
Pastor Steve ns an Church of G d members of the Milford od d to team memb onated food and drinks ers at the Su ssex Campus.
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and other equipment and supplies that were needed. Others donated to our special COVID-19 Employee Assistance Fund, which was set up to help our employees who suffered a reduction in their household income because a spouse or a partner lost a job due to COVID-19.”
THE END RESULT WAS THE LARGEST AND MOST SUCCESSFUL SPRING FUNDRAISING EFFORT THAT WE’VE HAD IN RECENT MEMORY. LINDSAY RHODENBAUGH
Bayhealth is extremely grateful for all of the philanthropic support that we received during this very difficult and unprecedented time. ■
Felton Holly Kia donated three cases of face shields for Bayhealth frontline team members.
r, Cente m y c n e ro Emerg e packets f t a s r . 0 car membe ation Team received 10 of appreci a gn Smyrn ora in a si h Sep
VISIT BAYHEALTH.ORG/FOUNDATION TO LEARN MORE ABOUT HOW YOU CAN MAKE A MONETARY DONATION TO BAYHEALTH.
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