- Men's Health, Women's Health, Infectious DiseaseGeneral Page Tier 3BlogPrimary care is your first line of defense against fighting illness and detecting health issues that may require medical attention. As primary care providers (PCP), we are here to support all of your medical care. This includes acute care for those who are ill, routine care for chronic conditions, preventive medicine, vaccination to prevent disease, and addressing your mental health and wellbeing. As we continue to learn more about the coronavirus (COVID-19), patients who are concerned about their health can always turn to their PCP for help. Primary care still plays a critical role in your healthcare, even during a pandemic. It’s normal to feel anxious about coming into a doctor’s office even as social distancing guidelines begin to relax. However, your health shouldn’t take a back seat as a result. If you have a chronic condition or new illness, your symptoms won’t wait until the end of the pandemic. Neither should you. Medical offices have safety protocols in place to provide a safe environment for patients and staff. While telehealth is an option, not all visits can be done virtually. For patients who come in, we take the necessary steps to keep you and our staff safe, starting with a screening call the day before your visit. We implement masking and temperature checks upon arrival. And patients now go directly to the exam room, bypassing the waiting room. We also screen our staff and health care providers daily. While COVID-19 is still at the top of everyone’s mind, other illnesses and medical needs still require attention and care. Minor health concerns can grow into issues that are more serious. This is especially true if you ignore symptoms and don’t seek treatment. Connect with your PCP to stay-up-to-date on preventive care. Visiting your PCP can help you keep track of routine screenings, immunizations, annual check-ups and sustain a healthy lifestyle. By staying connected with your PCP, you prevent or minimize your risk of disease. If you’re going in for a mammogram or colorectal screening, for example, your PCP can help guide you on next steps. Talk to your PCP about making lifestyle changes. Primary care focuses on you as an individual. PCPs can be a great support in answering questions, providing advice and helping you make lifestyle changes. Whether giving advice on nutrition or exercise recommendations, your PCP can help you maintain your overall health and wellness goals. Check in with your PCP after your appointment. If you were recently treated for an acute condition, such as an infection or injury, it’s a good idea to check in with your PCP to make sure you’re healing properly. Also, talking with your PCP gives you the opportunity to ask additional questions about your progress. Your provider can also give you more information that can help make your treatment understandable and easy to follow. Consider support groups. Your PCP can recommend support groups that can help you enhance your healthcare experience. While you continue to practice social distancing, it might be a good idea to connect with a support group. Support groups can help you improve your health. Primary care is important to your overall health. COVID-19 shouldn’t delay your medical care. Reach out to your PCP and make an appointment. If you have a concern, we’re ready to handle it. We don’t want you to feel like your concern isn’t important during this pandemic. If it matters to you, it matters to us. Hospitals and physician offices are safe, ready and open to continue providing high quality care for all your health needs. Authors Andrew McGlone, MD, is a physician with Anne Arundel Medical Group Annapolis Primary Care.0
- Infectious DiseaseGeneral Page Tier 3BlogTelehealth visits (also referred to as virtual visits, virtual consultations or telemedicine) are a great way to stay connected with your doctors from just about anywhere via a screen — like a computer, tablet or cell phone — instead of trekking to a medical office. Many chronic conditions and minor illnesses can be handled through a telehealth visit, including: Chronic disease guidance Dermatology care Medication management Mental health counseling Nutrition counseling Prescription refills Urgent care (sinusitis, back pain, urinary tract infections, common rashes, etc.) Wellness and general health information With the coronavirus pandemic in full swing, millions of people have found virtual visits to be a very convenient and effective way to stay in touch with their healthcare providers. Planning a telehealth visit? Download this handy checklist to help you prepare. A little prep goes a long way Know what you’ll need for your conversation with the doctor Taking the time to gather a few important items before your visit will help your virtual visit run smoothly and will allow you make the most of your time with your physician: Medication bottles: Those medication names can be real tongue-twisters. So, it’s best to let your doctor see the bottles and labels for each medication you take. That will ensure there are no mix-ups and clarify all medication names and dosage. Paperwork: Just like any medical visit, your insurance, medical history and other forms must be completed. Your doctor’s office can tell you if any forms on file need updating. Pen and paper: You’ll want to take notes while you talk to your doctor. Also, jot down your questions beforehand; it’s only natural to forget a question or two. Test results: If you’ve had any screening tests recently, make sure your doctor has the results prior to your visit. If you’ve done any home monitoring tests (like glucometer or blood pressure readings), it’s important to have those numbers on hand. Set up and test your equipment ahead of time If you’re new to virtual meetings, it’s essential to make time to get your device set up and ready to go. You might try a test with a friend, a quick check to make sure your doctor will get a clear picture and hear you well. Here are a few important reminders: Charge your device: Making sure your device is fully charged will help ensure your time with the doctor isn’t interrupted. Check your internet connection: If you’re using Wi-Fi, get the best signal you can. You may need to position yourself close to your internet router and/or close down other devices to improve your connection. Check your laptop, phone or tablet: Make sure video/camera and audio access has been enabled — and check the volume. Consider your lighting: Is your space private, quiet and well-lit? If you’re in front of a window, the bright light might shadow your face. Make sure your face is centered and your webcam is at eye level. Log on a few minutes early: This can help check for (and fix) any technological problems beforehand so you don’t delay your appointment. Why patients (and doctors) like telehealth visits During the pandemic, virtual visits went from being an item on our lists of things to try someday to becoming a necessity. And the benefits became clear, quickly: These visits helped us reduce exposure to COVID-19 while still getting the ongoing medical care we need. Even after we have coronavirus well under control, it’s likely doctors and patients alike will continue to enjoy the benefits of telehealth. After all, we’re much more comfortable with it now. Telehealth allows you to: Access medical specialists easily Address health issues without leaving home Save time off of work See your doctor quickly, possibly the same day We’re here, whenever and wherever you need us Telehealth visits are intended to help you get the medical attention you need without driving to see your doctor, risking exposure to contagious illnesses or spending time in a waiting room — especially if you aren’t feeling well. If you’re not sure about using your computer or cell phone for a telehealth visit, feel free to reach out to your provider’s office. They’ll be happy to walk you through the process, step by step, over the phone. Just remember: You aren’t the first to ask questions about telehealth visits. Our experts can explain it to you clearly, so you’ll feel comfortable. Authors Andrew McGlone, MD, is a physician with Anne Arundel Medical Group Annapolis Primary Care. You can reach him at 443-481-1150. Sufia Syed, MD, is an internal medicine physician at Doctors Community Practices at Laurel.0
- Infectious DiseaseGeneral Page Tier 3BlogWearing a mask is becoming optional for students in many parts of the country. Recently, Maryland lifted its statewide mask mandate for schools. This comes on the heels of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) easing mask recommendations under a new protocol to monitor COVID-19 and parents may be looking for ways to talk to their child or teen to help manage masking expectations. The new guidelines classify the country into low, medium and high levels of disease to provide individuals with an understanding of what precautions they should consider based on the level of disease in their community, their underlying risk, and their own risk tolerance. With most children ages 5 and older now able to get COVID vaccines, students have more protection from the virus than they had when the school year began. And because new COVID-19 cases and virus-related hospitalizations have fallen significantly following the Omicron surge, school districts are providing new guidance for masking that may leave some kids and teenagers uncomfortable, while others may be jumping for joy. Still, the risks COVID poses haven’t been eliminated. And for some people those risks are higher than others. When it comes to masking, it’s up to you to decide what’s best for your family based on your circumstances. Help your children understand the reasons behind your decision and emphasize the importance of respecting each family’s decision. It’s an important conversation — and that’s why we are weighing in with some helpful tips. When You Want Your Child or Teen to Continue Masking Up In general, COVID-19 is milder in children and teens than adults. However, certain medical issues, including diabetes, obesity and cancer may put kids at risk for more severe COVID disease. If your child has any of these conditions — or if someone in your household is at risk and your child could bring COVID home to them — you may, understandably, want your child to continue to wear a mask. Some parents have expressed concerns about how their children may be treated if they continue masking when most students go mask-free. And let’s be honest: Children can be cruel. It’s not unusual for kids to bully those who make different choices. And many times, kids feel pressured to conform. It’s important to remember that the COVID pandemic has been traumatic to everyone, and kindness is necessary for all of our healing. A heartfelt conversation with your child or teen may make things easier. Here are some tips: In an age-appropriate way, explain why wearing a mask is important and how it can help protect them and others. But try not to cause them to worry. Just help them understand why masking up is the right thing to do. Invite your child or teen to talk with you about their concerns or fears about continuing to wear a mask. Try to be understanding and to offer guidance on how to respond if your kids feel peer pressure. Make it clear that you’re trying to do what’s best for everyone in your family, just as other parents are trying to do what’s best for theirs — even if their choices are different. Remind your child or teen to tell someone if they feel bullied. And don’t hesitate to take concerns about bullying to school officials. It’s their goal to create an environment where everyone feels comfortable and safe. Set a good example. Wear your own mask when you’re in public or around other people. When you’re with your child or teen, avoid being critical of others who go without masks. When You Allow Your Child to Go Mask-Free If you decide it’s OK for your child or high schooler to attend school without a mask, all the same principles should apply to the conversation, including: Advising your child to be respectful of others who continue to wear masks. Explain that while you may feel it’s best for your child to go mask-free, other children have good reasons for masking — and no one should make them feel bad about it. Encouraging your child to stand up for kids if others are bullying them. Tell your child they can help by alerting a trusted adult. Remind your child that no one should judge another person because they’re different. Keep COVID Safety In Mind Of course, it’s also important to remember that while masks are now optional, COVID isn’t over. Everyone must continue to be cautious. Along with following CDC guidelines concerning vaccinating your child, it’s important to: Avoid letting your child be around others who are sick. Be on the lookout for COVID symptoms for at least 10 days if your child has close contact with someone who has COVID-19. If they’re up to date on their vaccine, there’s no need for them to quarantine. But if they’re not, they should stay home for at least five days. They should get tested for COVID at least five days after their contact even if they don’t have symptoms. Keep your child home from school and away from others if they develop COVID symptoms. Try to get them tested right way. And make sure they wear a mask around others in your home. Make sure to follow CDC guidelines for caring for someone with COVID if your child is diagnosed with the disease. By taking precautions, you’ll help keep your child and others safe. Authors Betina Franceschini, MD, is a pediatric hospitalist at Luminis Health Anne Arundel Medical Center’s Pediatric Emergency Department.0
- Cancer Care, Community, Patient & Family Advisors, UncategorizedGeneral Page Tier 3BlogPatricia Holle describes herself as a “mammogram success story.” When her breast screening showed an abnormality, Pat underwent 18 months of treatment for stage 2B breast cancer at Anne Arundel Medical Center. Once she was pronounced cancer-free, Pat was determined to help others who were facing cancer diagnoses. Luckily, she didn’t have to look far: She joined the volunteers who serve as AAMC’s patient and family advisors. Pat says she was hooked by the program’s theme, Nothing About Me Without Me. Pat had benefited from their services when she was a patient, so she felt it was a natural fit for her to return the favor. “There is something so special about AAMC,” says Pat. “They have such great care, even after treatment is done.” In her advisor role, Pat collaborated on the guide that breast cancer patients are given when they begin their cancer journey. “Empathy is wonderful,” says Pat, “but a unique perspective is given by someone who has been through breast cancer.” One annual event that holds particular meaning for Pat is AAMC’s National Cancer Survivors Day celebration. That’s where she learned about the Annapolis Dragon Boat Club, the local club of an international movement of cancer survivors who paddle and race stylized boats. “We like to say that it is a support group that’s not only about the disease,” says Pat. “Plus, being an athlete again is a great thing.” The dragon boat is featured in a painting that now hangs in The Rebecca Fortney Breast Center at the Geaton and JoAnn DeCesaris Cancer Institute, and is reproduced on note cards that are in a gift bag given to breast cancer patients on the day of their surgery. Pat remarks, “In the face of having a life-threatening diagnosis, it is reassuring to have a visit from a survivor with these special gifts.” Originally published Aug. 10, 2016. Last updated May 29, 2018.0
- Cancer Care, Patient StoriesGeneral Page Tier 3BlogSeven years ago, Howard “Howdy” Freedlander of Annapolis discovered that he had prostate cancer again. He met with Dr. Angel “Ted” Torano, a radiation oncologist at Luminis Health, to discuss treatment for the recurrence. “He was the most authentic and genuine doctor,” Howard says of Dr. Torano. In 2015, Howard traveled to Baltimore for the recommended surgery and now decided to receive eight weeks of radiation treatment under the care of Dr. Torano at Luminis Health Anne Arundel Medical Center. Howard underwent treatment from Monday to Friday, with each session lasting approximately 10 to 15 minutes. He commends the team for their professionalism and punctuality. The radiation therapists working with him also developed a personal connection. They nicknamed him Howdy, and upon his arrival for the afternoon treatment, they would cheerfully exclaim, “It’s Howdy Doody Time!” On one occasion, they even played the famous Howdy Doody song, and all of them, including Howdy, danced for a few seconds—a unique radiation preparation experience. After a total of 39 treatments, Howard celebrated his last day by ringing the bell in the Donner Pavilion. As a token of appreciation, he left a Howdy Doody bobblehead for the team to remember him by. He carries with him the memories of compassionate care. His advice to others affected by cancer is to maintain a positive mindset. He emphasizes the importance of respecting medical practitioners and appreciating the fact that they are working to save lives. They are motivated to help patients face cancer calmly and optimistically. “Many people who undergo treatment are fearful, anxious, and apprehensive. I chose to acknowledge the seriousness of the process, trust in it, and believe in its effectiveness. I am immensely grateful, as is my family,” says Howard. Howard Freedlander retired in 2011 as the Deputy State Treasurer of the State of Maryland. Previously, he held the position of executive officer in the Maryland National Guard and served as the community editor for Chesapeake Publishing, most recently at the Queen Anne’s Record-Observer. In his retirement, Howard actively serves on the boards of several nonprofit organizations in the Eastern Shore, Annapolis, and Philadelphia. If you would like to support the Luminis Health Anne Arundel Medical Center by honoring a doctor, nurse, or caregiver, please consider making a gift.0
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