- Community, News & Press ReleasesGeneral Page Tier 3Blog“I heard a radio playing, I knocked and nothing…I opened the door and found him lying there,” said Austin Wilson, 17, describing the scene where he found an overdose victim in the bathroom of the Glen Burnie, Md., 7-Eleven where he works. Austin had previously graduated from a prevention and education course provided by Anne Arundel Medical Center (AAMC) Pathways. He immediately recognized the signs and symptoms of opioid overdose and quickly called 911. He never imagined the skills he learned would one day save a person’s life. In June, State’s Attorney Wes Adams, along with Keisha Brooks and Amanda Larkins, both of Pathways, surprised Austin at the 7-Eleven. Austin received a citation in recognition of his actions. “He saved a life…Austin is really a hero,” said Adams. “It’s important for me, as the State’s Attorney, to come out and recognize good deeds because we see so many bad ones.” Recognizing the signs of an opioid overdose According to the Maryland Health Department, the state saw 1,468 deaths related to overdoses in the third quarter of 2016 alone. AAMC Pathways offers prevention education as part of its commitment to community outreach. Courses highlight an assortment of topics. On July 7, the treatment center is offering a 45-minute training on how to recognize an overdose and administer Naloxone (“Narcan”), an opioid overdose reversing drug available over-the-counter at Maryland pharmacies. Register by emailing [email protected] or sign up online. If you are ever a bystander at the scene of an overdose, seek immediate medical help. Signs of opioid overdose may include: euphoria drowsiness respiratory depression nausea vomiting constricted pupils0
- Giving, PediatricsGeneral Page Tier 3BlogAn emergency room visit or hospital stay can be an unfamiliar and overwhelming experience for a child. That’s why AAMC’s certified child life specialists are often among the first to greet children and their families at the hospital. They are fixtures in the pediatric emergency department and the inpatient pediatric unit. With backgrounds in child development and psychology, they use developmentally appropriate tools to help kids — from infants to teens — manage stress and cope with medical procedures and hospitalization. They also advocate for family members and act as a bridge between families and medical staff. “Children and their parents can feel vulnerable in a hospital setting, so we begin to build a relationship as soon as they walk in the door,” says Kellie Becker, certified child life specialist. “A child can cope better when he or she knows what to expect. Depending on the child’s developmental level, we might show them medical equipment, demonstrate a procedure on a doll, or explain what they will see, hear and smell.” Distraction helps as well, she adds. The specialists carry backpacks full of toys, an iPad, light sticks and bubbles. Child life specialists are also trained to help families in critical situations. This includes supporting parents whose children are receiving critical care interventions, helping explain and talk about serious illness or death with siblings, and promoting memory-making activities to help a family cope with a loss. A conversation with an older child or teen can reveal whether he or she prefers to know the details of a procedure beforehand. Child life specialists may discuss what techniques, such as squeezing a stress ball, will help relieve anxiety. “Even children who outwardly appear to be coping well may need attention,” Kellie explains. Thanks to the generous support of the Building Traditions Society, part of the AAMC Foundation, AAMC’s specialist-to-child ratio allows a level of individualized attention that is not often found at other hospitals, says child life specialist Kylie McMenaman. “It’s so rewarding to help a patient and family overcome stress, or cope with a medical procedure they were convinced they couldn’t handle,” she adds. “It’s great to see you’ve helped them have a good experience, and to know they’ll carry that to their next healthcare appointment.” For information on how to support AAMC’s child life program, please call 443-481-4747.0
- Wellness, Weight LossGeneral Page Tier 3BlogThe holidays are a magical time, but let’s be honest — they can also put a serious dent in your wallet, especially when it comes to food. Between parties, family gatherings and pumpkin spice everything, it’s easy to feel like you’re overspending. But you don’t have to sacrifice flavor or tradition to stick to a budget. With a little planning and a few smart swaps, you can enjoy all your holiday favorites without the financial stress. 1. Shop SmartUse store apps to stay on top of holiday discounts and deals. Focus on buying more whole foods and less processed items. Look for single-ingredient options — like a bag of potatoes, which costs less than pre-cut, seasoned or frozen potatoes. Not only are whole foods cheaper, but they’re also healthier, making this a win-win for your wallet and your well-being.2. Go for Seasonal ProduceIn-season fruits and vegetables are cheaper, fresher and tastier. Consider these seasonal options:Sweet potatoesAcorn and Butternut SquashApplesCranberriesCabbageOrangesCollard GreensCarrotsFrozen options work, too — think berry cobbler or garlicky sautéed green beans that no one will guess came from the freezer.3. Choose Budget-Friendly ProteinFew things sabotage a grocery budget like an expensive cut of meat. This is where going whole can save you big. A whole rotisserie chicken is usually cheaper than a few chicken breasts. Use it for several meals — like chicken and mashed potatoes, chicken salad and chicken soup. Chicken thighs, and drumsticks, as well as beef brisket are also inexpensive meats.4. Make It from ScratchSkip the takeout and the convenience items at the store and cook at home instead. Turn on some tunes, get cooking and have fun while reducing your spending. When you cook at home, you also have more control over the ingredients and can skip extra salt, fat and sugar to keep your meals healthy and delicious.If baking, consider these healthier and cheaper substitutes:Applesauce: Use unsweetened applesauce in place of oil or butter for moisture and fewer caloriesGreek Yogurt: Substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream or heavy cream to reduce fat and add proteinWhole Wheat Flour: Replace all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for added fiber and nutrientsHoney or Maple Syrup: Use these natural sweeteners instead of refined sugar for a healthier sweetnessCoconut Oil: Use coconut oil instead of butter for a diary-free alternative with a subtle coconut flavorDark Chocolate: Choose dark chocolate over milk chocolate for higher antioxidant content and less sugar 5. Be Your Own BaristaPair your favorite flavored creamer with freshly brewed dark roast coffee at home to experience all the holiday vibes without spending a small fortune at the coffee shop. Brewing your coffee at home means you can afford to upgrade your beans to match the flavor of your favorite local brew. 6. Host a Potluck PartyWhen it’s your turn to host, let your guests help. Stay ahead of the “What can I bring” texts and put what you need in the invitation. An appetizer to share, a side dish or a fun dessert is an opportunity for your guests to bring what they like and take some of the pressure off hosting. Beverages can also cost a fortune. Select a few budget-friendly drink options and make a festive infused water with cranberries and fresh mint. Let your guests know what you’ll have on hand and if they want something different to BYOB (bring your own beverage).Enjoy the holidays without a financial hangoverThe holidays are about enjoying time with family and friends, not stressing over your grocery bill. By planning, embracing the flavors of the season and making smart swaps, you can create delicious festive meals without overspending. Happy holidays — and happy saving!About the Author Allison Maurer is the bariatric clinical coordinator for Luminis Health Weight Loss and Metabolic Surgery.0
- Men's Health, News & Press Releases, Orthopedics, Physical Therapy, Senior Care, Women's HealthGeneral Page Tier 3BlogIn celebrating the opening of AAMC Pavilion – Easton, we caught up with three Eastern Shore patients – Mettah, Yvette and Bob – who have traveled over the Chesapeake Bay Bridge for Anne Arundel Medical Center services. With our recent growth into Easton in Talbot County, these residents are now able to receive the same quality care closer to home. Read their stories to learn about how our service expansion can positively impact those you love, too, just as it has for Mettah, Yvette and Bob. Mettah Kollman, patient of AAMC’s Women’s Center for Pelvic Health and AAMC Orthopedics Mettah KollmanPatient of AAMC’s Women’s Center for Pelvic Health and AAMC Orthopedics ► Visit their new Easton locations today After retiring from her career as a human resources specialist for the federal government in 2004, Mettah Kollman and her husband moved from Laurel, Md., to the Eastern Shore. Mettah describes herself as a “frequent flyer” at Anne Arundel Medical Center (AAMC). To date, she’s had three knee replacements, a hip replacement, spine surgery, and most recently, pelvic floor reconstruction. “For the nine months prior to pelvic surgery, I had continuous urinary tract infections (UTIs),” Mettah said. “I was dependent upon the various kinds of sanitary products designed for bladder leakage.” This discomfort took its toll on 71-year-old Mettah, and she decided to get help. Mettah can now enjoy her retirement and continue her interests without pain. Currently, she serves as a Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) to aid children who come into the court system due to parental neglect or abuse. She is also active in the Easton branch of the American Association of University Women, dotes on her three grandsons, enjoys a book club and plays bridge regularly. Though Mettah hopes to avoid the need for further treatment, she feels comforted by the fact that AAMC specialists are no longer as far away and, instead, located nearby at the new AAMC Pavilion in Easton. READ MORE: AAMC Women’s Center for Pelvic Health recognized as leaders in women’s health care Yvette Foster Brown, patient of AAMC’s Rebecca Fortney Breast Center and Anne Arundel Diagnostic Imaging Yvette Foster Brown Patient of AAMC’s Rebecca Fortney Breast Center and Anne Arundel Diagnostic Imaging ► Visit its new Easton location today Yvette’s breast cancer journey began when she was in her mid-20s. “My mother, who was only 43, died from breast cancer in 1986.” Nearly 40 years later, Yvette found herself in the same position. After a routine mammogram at Anne Arundel Diagnostic Imaging (AADI), the imaging specialist referred her to the Rebecca Fortney Breast Center at AAMC in October 2017. Yvette met with breast surgeon Dr. Lorraine Tafra and attended several consultations before undergoing a breast biopsy in November. “When I received the phone call from the breast surgeon to inform me of the biopsy results, I was devastated. My biopsy came back positive for cancer,” she recalled. At the age of 55, separated and living by herself, she was diagnosed with ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS) stage 3A breast cancer in January 2018. A breast cancer nurse navigator aided Yvette as she began her journey. “She was very supportive. She made all my required lab and imaging appointments, discussed surgical options, and reviewed my treatment plan with me.” In January 2018, Yvette had a mastectomy and d-flap breast reconstruction surgery. “My four-day hospital stay was very pleasant. The nursing staff and nursing assistants were so nurturing. Since I live by myself, I had never been pampered so caringly and efficiently the way the hospital staff did. Even the hospital meals were delicious.” In March, after recovering for several weeks, Yvette began her 15 months of chemotherapy. “I was able to tour the AAMC Outpatient Infusion Therapy Center where I would receive my chemo treatments. The nursing staff at the infusion center are so nurturing and knowledgeable,” she said. “They make sure the infusion patients are comfortable while receiving their medications. They offer patients drinks, snacks, and blankets as well as lunch.” Yvette reached out to a local breast cancer survivor group for support and advice. “Some women get their hair shaven off as a way of having some power or control over the chemo. Taking that advice, I went to a local hair salon and had my beautiful shoulder-length sister locks cutoff and scalp shaved bald,” she said. “I didn’t like looking in the mirror much after that. I purchased several wigs and I wore them even though they were uncomfortable.” The treatment was agonizing both physically and mentally. There were times when Yvette admitted she wanted to give up, but stayed strong with the loving support from her daughter as her motivation. “She drove me to and from my appointments, did my grocery shopping, laundry, and cleaning for the first few months. Due to the loss of appetite during the early phases of the chemo, my weight decreased rapidly.” In September, Yvette began six weeks of daily radiation treatments under the direction of Dr. Luqman Dad. “Having gone through my breast cancer journey in 2018 has made me a much stronger woman. I always considered myself confident, healthy, and independent, but never have I had to battle a life-challenging disease before and it was particularly scary knowing I would go through it alone,” she said. “I came through this journey with a newfound outlook on life and self-determination I didn’t know I had.” Yvette completes her chemotherapy plan this May. Her fight continues with the daily dose of Tamoxifen for the next five years. “My breast cancer journey has made me a more confident woman and I have a much greater appreciation for my relationships with family, friends and work colleagues. I am so blessed and so grateful to the wonderful doctors, nurses, and assistants at AAMC. The staff are so nurturing and pleasant, which has made my breast cancer journey such a positive experience. Thank you, AAMC!” William (Bob) Nelson, patient of AAMG Physical Therapy and AAMC Orthopedics William (Bob) Nelson Patient of AAMG Physical Therapy and AAMC Orthopedics ► Visit their new Easton locations today Kent Island resident and construction worker William (Bob) Nelson began April of 2018 just like any other month. Bob rode his motorcycle when the weather was nice, played the bass guitar with his band, and enjoyed spending time with his soon-to-be wife. On April 11, this all changed when he injured himself on the job. “I went to the doctor’s office and they initially said it was a sprain and had me start physical therapy elsewhere.” After two months, Bob’s knee was not improving. He was still working, and each day was a struggle. He received an X-ray and, upon review, the specialist determined surgery, in addition to physical therapy, might be the answer. His in-laws recommended Sports Medicine Specialist Dr. Benjamin Petre at Anne Arundel Medical Center (AAMC). “Since this was a workers’ compensation claim, I was able to choose my own doctor. I brought my MRI results to Dr. Petre and we set up a plan to start with physical therapy and a cortisone shot.” Throughout the rest of the summer, Bob continued physical therapy twice a week. In September, he had surgery. Bob was unable to bear any weight for the first six weeks while recovering, then only 50 percent of his body weight for two more weeks. Afterwards, he returned to physical therapy and finished his series of visits at the end of February. “My physical therapy was flawless from beginning to end. The equipment was up-to-date. The therapists were all knowledgeable and friendly. While I’m hoping I never have to go back for physical therapy, I would be quite happy to run into any of these people in the street and buy them a drink.” The last week of March, Bob began regular duty again and is back out in the field. “While my knee is not entirely back to normal, as Dr. Petre said it would take almost a year, its better every day, and I’m able to get back to the job – and activities – I love.”0
- News & Press ReleasesGeneral Page Tier 3BlogHealthcare should be refreshingly easy. At Luminis Health Doctors Community Medical Center (LHDCMC), we are committed to building a brighter, healthier future for our community. We accomplished a lot in 2022, and we are on a mission to do more in 2023. The Luminis Health system is determined to break down barriers of health and deliver more high-quality, equitable health care in Prince George’s County and throughout the State of Maryland. Three years ago, Doctors Community Hospital joined with Anne Arundel Health System to better meet the needs of patients, grow in a sustainable way, and provide greater access to care—closer to home. By forming Luminis Health, we are making major investments in our community and building upon our nearly 50-year legacy in Lanham. One way to accomplish this is to address the unmet needs in the region. The pandemic showed us all the need for behavioral health services. With the help of a $20 million grant from Prince George’s County and County Executive Angela Alsobrooks, we opened a new behavioral health pavilion on the campus of LHDCMC. We’ve already treated approximately 150 patients in our outpatient mental health and urgent walk-in clinics, as well as our psychiatric day hospital. A new adult inpatient psychiatric unit and residential substance use program will open in early 2023. We have also recognized there is a critical need for additional women’s health services in Prince George’s County, resulting in LHDCMC now offering a variety of minimally-invasive treatments, including fibroids and gynecologic cancers. The health system has also expanded surgical services to include general abdominal, bariatric, and bladder surgeries. In addition, Luminis Health is targeting chronic diseases like diabetes, from a preventive and primary care perspective. Our Community Health Team hosts weekly classes in Riverdale and College Park to help residents eat better and improve their sugar levels, commonly known as A1C. We are also committed to providing top-notch care for your children. Thanks to an ongoing partnership with Children’s National Hospital, we can treat pediatric patients in our emergency department. And, Luminis Health recently launched a new web platform that not only includes a redesigned website, but easy, personalized online scheduling for in-person and telehealth visits. While there is much to celebrate, we can’t overlook the on-going impact of the pandemic on the community and our workforce. The medical staff at LHDCMC has been on the front lines battling this virus for nearly three years. At times, it has been exhausting and emotionally overwhelming. The COVID-19 vaccine is our best shot to transition from a pandemic to an endemic. That’s why Luminis Health led the way by administering approximately 125,000 COVID-19 vaccines throughout our communities. We couldn’t do it without the help of community partnerships such as Reid Temple A.M.E. Church, First United Methodist Church of Hyattsville, the City of Hyattsville, Prince George’s Community College, the Prince George’s County Health Department, and many more. In 2023, Luminis Health has plans to ignite a new era of health care. We are planning to submit a Certificate of Need to bring obstetrics services to our Lanham campus. More than 80 percent of babies are delivered outside of Prince George’s County. By bringing these services closer to home, we can eliminate maternal and infant mortality, which is one of the bold goals of our Strategic Plan called Vision 2030. Future investments include building a women’s health pavilion, adding more parking, and expanding clinical support services such as our pharmacy and lab. While our name may have changed and our campus may expand over time, our commitment to providing high-quality, comprehensive, equitable and compassionate care will never change. It is an honor to live in Prince George’s County and serve as president of Luminis Health Doctors Community Medical Center. We are respectful of our legacy, and confident about our future. You can expect more progress next year and beyond as we fulfill our mission to enhance the health of the people and communities we serve. Authors Deneen Richmond is president of Luminis Health Doctors Community Medical Center0
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