- News & Press Releases, Stroke CareGeneral Page Tier 3BlogSeconds count when someone is suffering from a stroke. As part of a community awareness campaign, County Executive Steuart Pittman presented a proclamation honoring Luminis Health Anne Arundel Medical Center’s (LHAAMC) stroke care initiatives and designated Anne Arundel County as “Stroke Smart” due to the level of care offered by its hospitals. “With 1 in 6 people having a stroke in their lifetime, this May I encourage all county agencies, schools, health and safety-focused entities, businesses, and community organizations to participate in improving stroke literacy,” Pittman said. “I hereby proclaim May 2023 as National Stroke Awareness Month in Anne Arundel County and call upon all of our residents to recognize and educate themselves and others about the symptoms of stroke.” To earn the “Stroke Smart” designation, hospitals must meet certain standards of care outlined by the American Stroke Association and Maryland Institute for Emergency Medical Services Systems (MIEMSS) that demonstrates the organization’s ability to provide life-saving treatment to patients who may have suffered a stroke.“A stroke occurs when blood flow to the brain is suddenly interrupted or cut off. It is a medical emergency that needs immediate attention by calling 911,” said Sherry Perkins, president of LHAAMC. “Knowing that stroke is the fourth leading cause of death in Maryland, our stroke center program is fortunate to work with community organizations, the Maryland Health Department, local schools and businesses to improve stroke care in our communities and save lives.” Our Stroke Program provides a full range of neurology services supported by the outpatient neurology collaborative team, and patients with hemorrhagic strokes receive neurosurgical care by our neurosurgical team. “I feel fortunate to lead these dedicated team of professionals, including the multidisciplinary stroke teams as well as stroke survivors support groups that help us deliver a high quality care for stroke patients and also tremendously appreciate the critical communication between the local Emergency Medical Services (EMS) teams with our Emergency Department colleagues who are the key for the “TIME IS BRAIN” concept,” said Dr. Minas Gebru, stroke medical director at LHAAMC.LHAAMC is consistently rated a “Get with the Guidelines Gold Plus” from the American Heart Association and is an Advanced Primary Stroke Center that has been designated by MIEMMS since 2012. “It was my privilege to accept this proclamation from Anne Arundel County Executive Steuart Pittman on behalf of Luminis Health,” said Jen Harrington, LHAAMC chief operating officer. “Declaring Anne Arundel County a Stroke Smart County ensures high-quality healthcare for all residents of Anne Arundel County.”
- News & Press ReleasesGeneral Page Tier 3BlogAnnapolis, MD. — Luminis Health Anne Arundel Medical Center’s (LHAAMC) Emergency Department—one of the busiest in the state—has received the Maryland Stars of Life Executive Director’s Award from the Maryland Institute for Emergency Medical Services Systems (MIEMSS). The honor recognizes the ED team’s outstanding collaboration with EMS providers and their commitment to improving patient care through faster, safer emergency response.The Stars of Life Awards celebrate individuals and organizations that have made exceptional contributions to Maryland’s EMS system. LHAAMC’s Emergency Department was recognized for making it quicker and smoother to transition patients from EMS crews to the hospital team—ensuring patients receive timely treatment while enabling EMS providers to return to the field more quickly."Our team has reduced EMS turnaround times by more than 50% over the past three years, even as we’ve been seeing more and more patients," said Dennis Kelly, clinical director of LHAAMC’s Emergency Department. "This success is the result of implementing effective, data-driven strategies and the strong collaboration between our staff and EMS partners."With nearly 100,000 visits annually, LHAAMC’s Emergency Department is among the busiest in Maryland. As a trusted source of care in the community for nearly 125 years, LHAAMC continues to evolve to meet growing needs. The ED team’s efforts to streamline operations and improve communication with EMS partners have had a measurable impact on emergency care delivery in the region. "This recognition speaks to the extraordinary work of our emergency department and their deep commitment to collaboration, efficiency, and patient safety," said Sherry Perkins, president of Luminis Health Anne Arundel Medical Center. "We’re proud of our work with Maryland’s EMS system and appreciate the dedicated professionals who make this level of care possible every day. Through strong collaboration, we’re able to treat patients more quickly and help EMS crews return to the field to assist the next patient and family." Dr. Ted Delbridge, executive director of MIEMSS, visited the hospital along with other EMS leaders to present the honor to the ED staff. "I am extremely proud of our team members who provide high-quality care to our community 24/7,” said Dr. Michael Kent, medical director of LHAAMC’s Emergency Department. This honor reflects the hard work, knowledge, compassion and dedication of our physicians, nurses, technicians, volunteers, and all of our employees who strive for excellence every day."
- Wellness, Heart CareGeneral Page Tier 3BlogDo you have high cholesterol? You’re not alone — millions of adults in the United States face this common but serious issue. High cholesterol increases the risk of heart disease, stroke and other chronic health conditions. In Prince George’s County, heart disease is the leading cause of death, underscoring the urgency of managing cholesterol levels. But how can you take control? At Luminis Health, we understand it’s not always easy. That’s why we’re here to explore the difference between “good,” “bad” and even “stealthy” cholesterol, review lifestyle changes that can help, and weigh the pros and cons of statin medications. Good vs. bad cholesterol Believe it or not, cholesterol isn’t all bad. Cholesterol helps build cells, create hormones and vitamin D, and aid in digestion. Problems can develop, however, when you have too much bad cholesterol or not enough good cholesterol in your bloodstream. In your body, cholesterol and triglycerides (fats from food, such as butter) combine with proteins to form lipoproteins, which travel to cells through your bloodstream. It’s likely you’ve heard of these, although perhaps by nickname: High-density lipoprotein (HDL) is often referred to as “good cholesterol” because its job is to move the bad cholesterol out of your arteries and into your liver, where it breaks down. Good cholesterol can be found in foods like nuts, fruits and vegetables, avocados, olive oil, oatmeal, beans and whole grains. Low-density lipoprotein (LDL), also known as “bad cholesterol,” causes fat to build up in your arteries, either restricting or blocking blood flow. Bad cholesterol is common in foods like red meats, processed meats and fried foods. Stealthy cholesterol is the common name for lipoprotein(a) or Lp(a). It’s often called “stealthy cholesterol” because high Lp(a) levels usually don’t cause symptoms and diet, exercise and cholesterol medication don’t affect it. It’s a genetic condition detected by a special blood test. You can have high cholesterol if you have too much LDL, too little HDL or a combination of both. Stealthy cholesterol is also quite common. According to the American Heart Association, one in five people worldwide has high levels of Lp(a). Whether you have high or stealthy cholesterol, you’re at an increased risk of experiencing heart pain (angina), a heart attack or a stroke. How to combat high cholesterol Certain lifestyle changes can help you keep your cholesterol in check, including: Eating a healthy diet that includes heart-healthy foods like vegetables, fruits, whole grains, fat-free or low-fat dairy, and protein-rich foods such as fish and lean meats. Exercising regularly — aim for 150 minutes each week. Limiting your alcohol intake. Maintaining a healthy weight. Quitting smoking. If high cholesterol is an issue for you, your doctor may also prescribe medications to decrease your levels of bad cholesterol, increase your levels of good cholesterol and/or reduce your levels of triglycerides. One type of medication, called statins, can do all three. The pros and cons of statins Unfortunately, you can still have high cholesterol, even if you maintain a healthier lifestyle or have recently made some positive changes. Many of us now take a statin, which is a class of medication that helps lower cholesterol. Statins work by blocking a substance your body uses to produce cholesterol, helping to slow the buildup of plaque in the arteries. Statins are especially beneficial for people who have already had a heart attack or are at high risk due to conditions like diabetes or high blood pressure. In addition to lowering cholesterol, statins may also have anti-inflammatory effects that further protect the heart and blood vessels. However, it’s important to be aware that statins can come with potential side effects, such as: Constipation Diarrhea Fatigue or sleep issues Headache Increased blood sugar Liver damage Muscle or stomach pain Nausea or vomiting Rash You’re more likely to experience side effects from statins if you’re female, take other cholesterol-lowering medications, drink excessive alcohol or have conditions like hypothyroidism, kidney disease or liver disease. Certain medications and even foods (such as grapefruit juice) can also interact with statins. Your doctor can help you weigh the risks and benefits to decide if statins are right for you. The support you need, close to home If you suspect you have high cholesterol or are experiencing concerning symptoms, it’s important to seek expert medical screening and treatment. The faster you get a diagnosis, the sooner we can take steps to help you lower your risk for serious health complications. Find a primary care provider at Luminis.Health/PrimaryCare or call 301-927-0088 to schedule an appointment at our Greenbelt location. The Luminis Health Community Health team also offers free community clinics with essential screenings, including A1C testing, cholesterol and blood pressure screenings. For details about upcoming clinics, visit Luminis.Health/CommunityClinics. Authors Sufia Syed, MD is an internal medicine physician at Luminis Health.
- WellnessGeneral Page Tier 3BlogWith summer fun and outdoor activity hitting its peak do not let ticks spoil the party. Tick bites can be the cause of many illnesses including Lyme disease, Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever, alpha – gal, and more recently babesiosis. The good news? Most tick-related illnesses are preventable with some simple habits. How to Prevent Tick Bites Routine checks can often find ticks before they bite you. Ticks are very skilled at going unnoticed, so checking yourself routinely for unwanted guests is a great habit to get into this time of year. Look carefully — Ticks will frequent many great hiding places such as: Armpits Behind the ears Along your waistline In the belly button Between the toes Ticks can be very small and be mistaken for dirt, moles, or birthmarks. If you have kids, be sure to check them regularly/ teach them this important summer safety tip. What to Do if You Find a Tick If you find a tick attached to you the safest and most effective way to remove a tick is with fine-tipped tweezers. Grasp the tick as close to the skin's surface as possible, then pull upwards with steady, even pressure until it detaches. Try to avoid squeezing the tick's body, which can force its saliva and potentially infectious material into your skin. (Link to possible source) Do not burn the tick or put chemicals on them. Remember pets can bring ticks inside with them so if you are a pet owner you be extra vigilant. When to Seek Medical Care Contact a provider if you experience any of the following symptoms: A new or expanding rash Fever or flu-like symptoms Headache Joint pain or myalgia (muscle aches or body soreness) No matter the question or symptom related to a tick bite, Luminis Health primary care providers can help you get the answers and care you need. With Luminis Health CareConnectNow you can connect with a medical provider on your mobile device from anywhere—even the comfort of your home. Appointments available (for ages 13 and up): Weekdays: 8:00am - 9:00pm EDT Weekends: 9:00am - 4:00pm EDT Please note: You must be physically located in Maryland at the time of service. Schedule a live virtual visit with CareConnectNow during operating hours or call us on your smartphone at 667-423-0609. Authors Andrew McGlone, M.D., is the executive medical director of Primary Care and Community Medicine at Luminis Health.
- News & Press ReleasesGeneral Page Tier 3BlogAnnapolis, Md. (July 25) — Luminis Health Anne Arundel Medical Center (LHAAMC), the premier hospital serving Annapolis, the Eastern Shore and beyond, is grateful to announce a transformational philanthropic gift from Annapolis resident Sally Ehrle, PhD – one of the largest in the hospital’s nearly 125-year history. In recognition of this extraordinary generosity, the main North Pavilion lobby at LHAAMC has been named in honor of Sally and her late husband, Raymond Ehrle.Dr. Ehrle’s contribution is the lead gift of a major philanthropic investment in support of Luminis Health’s Vision 2030 strategic plan, with the goal of enhancing health, advancing wellness, and removing barriers to high quality care. The Ehrle’s gift will support planned renovations to expand patient care space, allowing LHAAMC to better serve the community and introduce additional patient-centered innovations. “We are deeply grateful to Dr. Ehrle and her late husband for their remarkable generosity and vision to spark change and inspire others,” said Dr. Sherry Perkins, president of Luminis Health Anne Arundel Medical Center. “The Sally and Raymond Ehrle Lobby is in the heart of our hospital and welcomes 200,000 patients, family members, and visitors each year. It will stand as a welcoming reminder that none of us are alone in our health journey, we have dedicated neighbors who invest to ensure high quality care, close to home.” Dr. Ehrle joined her two sons, their children, Dr. Perkins, Luminis Health CEO Tori Bayless, hospital leaders, clinicians, and community members for a dedication ceremony honoring the Ehrle’s enduring legacy of care and compassion. “Raymond and I lived simply with a goal of someday using our resources to support the community.” said Dr. Ehrle. “I have an extensive volunteer history wherever I have lived, and this volunteerism has led to being a donor to several institutions in the Annapolis area. I have been an Annapolis resident for 23 years and feel a strong tie to this community.” Always humble and focused on others, Dr. Ehrle has asked that the amount of her gift remain confidential and hopes to instead focus on the impact that philanthropy can make on the health of the community. “By enabling us to grow with the needs of our community, Dr. Ehrle’s gift will enhance the health of generations to come,” said Elizabeth Gross, vice president of the Luminis Health Anne Arundel Medical Center Foundation. “Our hospital has been built by the remarkable generosity of this community. Generations of philanthropists have stood with us to make LHAAMC the nationally-recognized institution that it is today. Dr. Ehrle’s gift is a powerful catalyst, and we hope it inspires others to join in, because every gift, no matter the amount, plays a vital role in the health of our community.” This transformational gift comes on the heels of LHAAMC’s Emergency Department receiving the Maryland Stars of Life Executive Director’s Award from the Maryland Institute for Emergency Medical Services Systems (MIEMSS). The hospital is also consistently recognized among the Best Hospitals by Newsweek and rated high performing by U.S. News & World Report. LHAAMC is the only hospital in Maryland to earn 13 consecutive ‘A’ grades from Leapfrog for patient safety and is one of just 6% of hospitals nationwide to receive a third Magnet designation for nursing excellence.
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