- Infectious DiseaseGeneral Page Tier 3BlogJohnson & Johnson’s COVID-19 vaccine is the third vaccine to receive emergency use authorization (EUA) from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). And, many consider it to be the gamechanger the country needs to streamline its mass vaccination efforts. Here are important things to know about the Johnson & Johnson vaccine: It protects against severe disease and death Research shows the Johnson & Johnson vaccine prevents 85% of severe disease. The vaccine prevented severe illness even in areas of the world where concerning variants circulate. Plus, the vaccine was 100% effective in clinical trials at preventing deaths. It’s natural to want to compare the effectiveness of Johnson & Johnson to the other COVID-19 vaccines. But it’s not that easy. Testing happened during a more complicated phase of the pandemic, after more variants emerged. And, it was tested in different areas of the world for effectiveness. Preventing severe disease, hospitalizations and death are what we most need in a vaccine. The Johnson & Johnson vaccine provides this protection. Side effects and exclusions are similar to other vaccines Common side effects include pain at the injection site, headache, fatigue, muscle aches and nausea that last a day or two after vaccination. The vaccine is recommended for those 18 and over. It’s not recommended if you’ve had a severe or immediate allergic reaction to any ingredient in the vaccine. Essentially, the guidance is similar to other COVID-19 vaccines. It shows promise for protecting against asymptomatic spread According to the FDA, there’s evidence the vaccine may protect against asymptomatic infections. This means it can reduce the risk of a vaccinated person unknowingly passing along the virus to others. This has been a key question about vaccines throughout the pandemic. It was developed by Jannsen Jannsen is the pharmaceutical arm of Johnson and Johnson. Even though the media refers to the Johnson & Johnson vaccine, you may see references in other places to the Jannsen vaccine. For instance, your vaccination card may say Jannsen instead of Johnson & Johnson. It’s easier to use and store The Johnson & Johnson vaccine requires a single dose instead of two. And, it’s stored in a regular refrigerator instead of extreme temperatures. It’s a much-needed tool in our immunization toolbox because of its ease of use. The Johnson & Johnson vaccine should help our country, and the world, more easily vaccinate the most vulnerable in our population. These are the places where specialized refrigeration and the ability to follow up for a second dose are not practical. And, it should help streamline our mass vaccination efforts. Remember, it will take time to vaccinate everyone against COVID-19. We must keep adhering to tried and tested measures that keep each and all of us safe. This means we must continue to follow the 3Ws – Wear your mask, Wash your hands and Watch your distance.0
- Cancer Care, Men's Health, Women's HealthGeneral Page Tier 3BlogPhysicians across the U.S. will diagnose almost 100,000 new cases of colorectal cancer this year, according to the American Cancer Society (ACS). Of those cases, the ACS estimates that 40,000 people will die. The good news is that colorectal cancer, also referred to as colon (large bowel) cancer, is preventable and curable if diagnosed early. The best way to achieve this is by getting a screening colonoscopy. Let’s start with the basics – what is a colonoscopy? Most colorectal cancers start from ‘silent’ growths within the colon called polyps. We use a screening colonoscopy to detect and remove polyps. The procedure takes about 20 to 30 minutes to complete. Once we sedate the patient, we insert a colonoscope that goes to the end of the colon. We remove any polyps seen during the procedure. Next, we collect the polyps for analysis. Removal of these polyps prevents the development of colorectal cancer. There are alternative screenings. There are many stool-based tests used for screening. Among these is the Cologuard test. For this test, the patient collects their stool at home and then ships it to a lab. Cologuard is very good for screening and is less invasive. Other tests check for blood in the stool. These tests occur in a doctor’s office or at home. Talk to your provider. You should get your first screening at age 50, but we recommend talking to your provider about screening beginning at the age of 45. An earlier screening is recommended at age 40 for people with a family history of colon cancer, and some research suggests African-Americans should get a colonoscopy at age 45. Diet can play a role in colon health. A diet low in fat and high in fiber can improve colon health. This type of diet may reduce your colorectal cancer risk. Signs and symptoms. Patients with early colorectal cancer usually don’t have symptoms. In later stages of undiagnosed colorectal cancer, symptoms may include: Rectal bleeding Anemia Abdominal pain Loose stools Constipation Weight loss Screening for early detection of colorectal cancer is crucial. Even for advanced colorectal cancers, a 95% cure rate is possible with the latest surgical and cancer therapies. Colorectal cancer is preventable. Don’t wait if you are over 50. Call your primary care provider to set up a colonoscopy screening. Doctors’ offices are safe, ready and open to care for you. Author Showkat Bashir, MD, specializes in gastroenterology at Doctors Community Hospital.0
- News & Press Releases, Infectious DiseaseGeneral Page Tier 3BlogLuminis Health Anne Arundel Medical Center (LHAAMC) and Luminis Health Doctors Community Medical Center (LHDCMC) have opened their doors to limited patient visitation. The guidelines allow one to two visitors, based on patient situation, to be present during visitor hours throughout the patient’s stay. Visitor hours for LHAAMC are 12 pm to 8 pm. Visitor hours for LHDCMC are 8 am to 8 pm. Clergy of any denomination may visit a patient at any time and does not count in visitation totals. “Caring for and protecting our patients, families, employees, and the community during this pandemic has been our top priority,” said Victoria Bayless, chief executive officer for Luminis Health. “We recognize this past year has been difficult for patients and their loved ones. The new procedures will bring much needed support to our patients, while keeping everyone safe. We thank everyone for their patience and ask them to remain vigilant.” Visitors will be screened upon entry to the hospital and expected to follow these guidelines: They will be required to wear an appropriate mask at all times while in the hospital (even if vaccinated); Must maintain social distancing from all others; And wash or sanitize their hands throughout their visit. As a patient and family-centered organization, Luminis Health will continue to review and update our visitation guidelines and practices as the situation changes. View the latest guidelines for LHAAMC here and LHDCMC here.0
- News & Press Releases, Women's Health, PediatricsGeneral Page Tier 3BlogAccording to Newsweek and The Leapfrog Group, Luminis Health Anne Arundel Medical Center (LHAAMC) has been named one of the best maternity hospitals in the State of Maryland. LHAAMC made the publication’s Best Maternity Hospitals 2021 list for demonstrating the highest performance in the United States in safety and quality of care for moms and newborns. “It is truly an honor for Luminis Health Anne Arundel Medical Center to be just one of 217 hospitals in the country to receive this recognition,” said Sherry Perkins, president of Luminis Health Anne Arundel Medical Center. “This award is made possible thanks to efforts by our physicians, nurse midwives, nurses, nurse practitioners, physician assistants and the entire team.” “To be just one of three hospitals in Maryland to earn this award is no small feat,” said Dr. Mitch Schwartz, president of Luminis Health Clinical Enterprise. “This is a real testament to our staff for its hard-work, quality care, and dedication to our patients.” Newsweek partnered with The Leapfrog Group, an independent nonprofit that monitors the quality and safety of hospitals, to compile the list of hospitals that demonstrate excellence in maternity care. To be recognized as a Best Maternity Hospital, healthcare organizations had to meet several standards that include: Low rates of early elective deliveries. Low rates of Cesarean (C-section) deliveries for first-time mothers delivering a single, full-term baby in the head-down position. When babies are delivered by C-section, using standardized techniques to prevent blood clots in new mothers. Low rates of episiotomies, or incisions made in the birth canal to aid in a difficult delivery and prevent tearing of the tissue. Testing babies for high levels of bilirubin, a substance that can highlight a baby is at higher risk for disabilities. “Our families deserve the best,” said Monica Jones, chair of Luminis Health Women’s and Children’s services. “We’re here to create healthcare that’s easier, personal, and made for the communities that we call home. Hats off to our team for being 100% focused on the families we serve.” Luminis Health wants to expand its nationally recognized obstetrics services to Doctors Community Medical Center. “Eight out of 10 mothers leave Prince George’s County for maternity care,” said Deneen Richmond, president of Luminis Health Doctors Community Medical Center. “Prince Georgians deserve accessible women’s health services. That’s why we will submit a certificate-of-need application to the Maryland Health Care Commission in April to bring these much needed services to our family, friends, neighbors, and community there.”0
- Community, Pediatrics, Infectious DiseaseGeneral Page Tier 3BlogMany schools are re-opening for in-person instruction after being closed for nearly a year. Heading back to school can be both exciting and nerve-racking. And whether your child has already returned or is still adjusting to new schedules, our experts have you covered with helpful tips for being back in the classroom. Routine Since many students have been out of school for almost a year, it’s important to restart good habits around routines like eating and sleeping. Children should start going to bed early and waking up each morning at an appropriate time. Remember, it’s always good to get eight hours of sleep and breakfast is the important meal of the day. Model Good Behavior Students should wear masks/face coverings on the bus and at school. If you wear a mask, your children will follow your lead. Face coverings must cover their mouth and nose fully. Kids should also practice wearing masks for long periods of time. It will make it that much easier when they return to the classroom. Watch for Symptoms If your child is sick, or if someone in your household has tested positive for COVID-19, they should stay home. Symptoms of COVID-19 can include cough, shortness of breath, difficulty breathing, fever of 100 degrees or higher, chills and loss of taste or smell. If you have questions, contact your child’s physician or the school’s health office. Health and Safety Children want to share; it’s in their nature. Normally, we applaud their kindness. But for now, students should refrain from sharing food or school supplies. They also must keep their physical distance from classmates. Turn a conversation about social distance into a fun exercise. For example, show your child how many toys it takes to get to six feet. Finally, remind them to frequently wash their hands with soap and water during the school day. These important steps will keep everyone safe and healthy. Children are our future. Let’s help them lead the way. Authors Lauren Fitzpatrick, MD, is the medical director of Luminis Health Anne Arundel Medical Center’s Pediatric Emergency Department. Kristen Breslin, MD, MPH, is the medical director of Children’s National Emergency Department at Doctors Community Hospital.0
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