SOUTHERN DELAWARE EDITION
healthwaves B AY H E A LT H
Turning tragedy into transformation — PAGE 4
IN THIS ISSUE: 8
Harnessing healthy cravings
12
Balancing the effects of aging
16
Combat spring allergies
SP RIN G 2018
healthwaves 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 does not discriminate against any person on the basis of race, color, national origin, disability, or age in admission, treatment, or participation in its programs, services, and activities, or in employment. If you have any questions, please call JoAnn Davis at 302-744-7405. Bayhealth’s TDD or State Relay number is 1-866-237-0174.
TERRY M. MURPHY, FACHE President and CEO, Bayhealth
JENNIFER DAILEY Writer, Healthwaves
MICHAEL ASHTON, FACHE Vice President of Operations/ Administrator, Bayhealth Milford Memorial
Marketing Specialist, Bayhealth GWEN GUERKE Writer, Healthwaves Marketing Specialist, Bayhealth
PAMELA J. MARECKI Senior Editor, Healthwaves
DANIELLE PRO-HUDSON Writer, Healthwaves
Assistant Vice President Marketing Communications, Bayhealth
Media Center Coordinator, Bayhealth JENNIFER MYERS Writer, Healthwaves
AMANDA C. BOWIE Editor, Healthwaves
Marketing Specialist, Bayhealth
Marketing Operations Manager, Bayhealth
ALICE RAUSCH Contributor, Healthwaves
LEIGH ANN COLEMAN Photographer, Healthwaves
Southern Region Strategy & Brand Program Manager, Bayhealth
Webmaster, Bayhealth
PAUL STECCA Designer, Healthwaves J&P Stecca LLC
IN THIS ISSUE feature story: 4 Turning ●
tragedy into transformation PICTURED ON COVER Tyrone Gale and his dogs Stella and CoCo. A special thank-you to Under Armour® at the Tanger Outlets for their assistance in capturing Gale’s story.
To view Healthwaves online visit: Bayhealth.org/HealthwavesSouth
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Silence pelvic floor pain for good
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Spring into action to combat allergies
8 ●
Making exercise a passion
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10 ● 12 ●
2018 Spring Classes
Generations of support for local healthcare in Milford
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14 ●
Emergency care for expecting mothers
Celebrating Milford’s past with an eye on the future
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Find your place on our volunteer team
Balancing the effects of aging
BAYHEALTH HOSPITAL, KENT CAMPUS
BAYHEALTH MILFORD MEMORIAL
640 South State Street Dover, Delaware 19901 302-674-4700
21 West Clarke Avenue Milford, Delaware 19963 302-422-3311
Letter from the President DEAR NEIGHBORS, Spring marks a season of change — a season that allows us to refocus and commit to new goals. Maybe you’ve set goals to live a healthier life, spend more time with family, to travel more often, or disconnect from your devices. No matter your goal, at Bayhealth we want to help you live your healthiest life. For Tyrone Gale, a tragic car accident left him reassessing his health. He was on the New Jersey Turnpike, driving comedian Tracey Morgan and a group of others, when Gale’s limo was hit by a tractor trailer. He recalls struggling to lift his nearly 400-pound body from the limo and help others to safety. He looked for hope in the Bayhealth Weight Loss Surgery program. After having a successful surgery, Gale has lost more than 130 pounds. Read his story beginning on page 4. Jane Peters spent five years living with unbearable pelvic pain. She sought answers and found them in Bayhealth Colorectal Surgeon Elsa Goldstein, MD, who suggested pelvic floor therapy. Peters said that prior to therapy she wasn’t able to stand still, sit or drive without pain. Now she’s advocating for other women, and men, to speak up about this often taboo topic. Read her story on page 6. Aging is inevitable and it may be taking a spring from your step. But if you prepare yourself for the aging process it won’t be so overwhelming. Although you may be afraid of getting older, Bayhealth offers support and teaches a class on aging and balance. We’re stripping the fear away by showing you what changes may occur and how you can address them. Learn more about this program beginning on page 12.
Spring also brings with it new life. If you’re pregnant, or planning to be, our Obstetrical Emergency Department (OBED) at Bayhealth Milford Memorial can provide you a sense of comfort during an emergency. The OBED is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week and is home to board-certified OB-GYN physicians and OB registered nurses. Learn more about the OBED and how to access the services on page 14. Bayhealth has also commenced a countdown of sorts this spring as we set our sights on opening the Bayhealth Hospital, Sussex Campus in early 2019. In less than a year’s time, we’ll open our doors to a hospital and outpatient center that will be a great place to give and receive care. Be sure to visit Bayhealth.org/Sussex-Campus to sign up for our email notifications so you continue to receive the latest news and updates. While we look to the future of healthcare in our community, we also want to pause to commemorate the history of Bayhealth Milford Memorial. Read more on pages 18 and 19. Here’s wishing you a healthy and happy spring and 2018. Sincerely,
Terry M. Murphy, FACHE President and CEO Bayhealth
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Turning tragedy into transformation Most people who have lost a significant amount of weight can pinpoint a moment, a specific time in their life when they finally decided enough was enough. But it’s unlikely that many people can recall a moment as dramatic as Tyrone Gale’s. Gale, affectionately called “Ty” by all who know him, has always struggled with his weight. Gale is well known around southern Delaware, both for his vivacious personality and the limo business he owns. He could never quite get into the “two club” as he calls it — and was over 300 pounds for much of his adult life. Everything changed in June 2014 when Gale found himself pinned in the limousine he was driving after it was struck on the New Jersey Turnpike. Gale was driving comedian Tracey Morgan and a group of his friends and fellow comedians home following
a comedy event at Dover Downs. Their limo was struck by a tractor trailer. Later investigations would reveal the driver of the tractor trailer had been awake for 28 hours and was still behind the wheel. One of the passengers, Jimmy Mack, died from his injuries. “I remember feeling like a father in the delivery room that day,” recalled Gale. “It was that feeling of just wanting to see ten fingers and ten toes. I just wanted everyone to be okay, and that wasn’t the case. That was hard for me.” The terrifying moments spent trying to escape the limo and pull others to safety weighed on Gale for a striking reason. “I’m trying to climb out of my limo and it was just hard. Part of it was the heat of the moment, but a lot of it was the extra weight I was carrying. That stuck with me,” said Gale. “After the accident, I just had a hard time coping. In those moments, I turned to food to deal with the stress.”
GALE AND HIS DAUGHTER ALEXIS ARE PICTURED HERE SHOPPING. GALE SAYS HE ENJOYS SHOPPING NOW MORE THAN EVER, NOW THAT HE FITS IN TRADITIONAL SIZES AND CAN SHOP IN ANY STORE. GALE SAYS IN HIS FORMER LIFE HE’D STICK TO ALL DARK-COLORED CLOTHING SINCE HE THOUGHT IT WAS SLIMMING. NOW THAT HE’S LOST THE WEIGHT HE’S NO LONGER AFRAID TO WEAR BOLD COLORS.
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I THINK HE REALIZED HIS MORTALITY AND WITH THE HELP OF HIS SUPPORTIVE WIFE AND FAMILY HE TRULY MADE THE DECISION TO CHANGE HIS LIFE. — THOMAS BARNETT, MD
Gale topped out close to 400 pounds when he finally considered weight loss surgery. That’s when he turned to Thomas Barnett, MD, and his weight loss team at Bayhealth. Initially he wasn’t interested after he discovered it’s typically a sixmonth process from when patients first meet with the surgeon to when they actually have the surgery. In that time patients work with a dietitian and have ongoing meetings with a variety of physicians to prepare for the procedure. Jump to three months later, Gale actually considered not having the surgery because he was doing so well losing the weight on his own. “I remember telling my wife, Ellyne, I wasn’t going to have the surgery,” said Gale. “That’s when my wife and two daughters held a family intervention. My older daughter, Alexis, reminded me how long I’d been struggling with my weight, and how important it was that I stick to this. She knew if I decided against the surgery I’d likely put the weight back on one way or another. That solidified my decision; I was going to have the surgery.” The surgery itself proved more challenging than expected. Dr. Barnett explained to Gale afterwards that during the limo accident, he was likely impaled by the steering wheel, which affected both his
stomach and his liver. Gale credits Dr. Barnett with successfully completing the surgery. “It was in that moment that I was so honored Dr. Barnett was my surgeon. The compassion he showed me that day, it was unbelievable.” “Ty is an inspiration to us all. He has a very positive attitude and faces issues honestly and head-on,” said Dr. Barnett. “Having to deal with the death of one of his passengers in his limo really forced Ty to take a long hard look at himself. I think he realized his mortality and with the help of his supportive wife and family he truly made the decision to change his life.” It’s now been about a year and a half since the surgery. Gale is officially in the “two club” and has lost more than 130 pounds. Gale sustains his success with a balanced diet, time at the gym, running several times a week, and getting at least 10,000 steps every day. Though he admits, some days it’s mind over matter. “I feel like I’m constantly being reminded of how little I eat,” he said. “That’s been a big adjustment. As a heavier guy, I enjoyed eating food, and a lot of it. But now my mind and my body are moving in the same direction. I don’t need food, I need fuel. It’s pretty amazing to not obsess over what I’m eating and focus on other things.” One big change has been shopping. “It’s awesome to shop in the regular sections. I love trying on clothes. Sometimes I have to remind myself I’m not a 400-pound man anymore.” HOW TO GET STARTED: Attend an informational seminar. Get the information right from the surgeon. Attend a support group. Hear from people who have already gone through it. Call the Surgical Weight Loss team. Have a consultation with Patty Deer to learn about the program. ■ Go to Bayhealth.org/Surgical-Weight-Loss to learn more about the program, read the FAQs, and see if your insurance is accepted.
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Silence pelvic floor pain for good Unbearable pain, thought to be caused by hemorrhoids, plagued Jane Peters for five years. When the discomfort was too much to tolerate, Peters requested a visit with a specialist. But she wasn’t satisfied, and sought a second opinion from Bayhealth Colorectal Surgeon Elsa Goldstein, MD, who referred Peters to Bayhealth Outpatient Rehabilitation for pelvic floor therapy. The “pelvic floor” is a group of muscles that provide support to the organs and control bowel and bladder functions. Dysfunction or weakness of these muscles can result in a variety of problems including incontinence or pain. Through the pelvic floor rehab program, treatment includes myofascial release, dilator therapy, education regarding triggers and modifying activities, biofeedback, and therapeutic exercises. Peters was diagnosed with a pelvic floor condition called levator ani syndrome/spasm and not hemorrhoids. Levator ani syndrome refers to pain experienced in the back part of the pelvis. Symptoms include pain while sitting and discomfort after a bowel movement. Bayhealth Physical Therapists Jessica Bayer, PT, DPT, WCS, CLT, and Christine Boddicker, PT, DPT, encourage people to talk about pelvic floor pain with their doctors. “This isn’t a condition people are comfortable talking about,” said Boddicker. “Although talking about pelvic pain and incontinence can be embarrassing, it’s better to talk about it than live with the pain in silence.” When Boddicker and Bayer first meet with patients, they do a thorough pelvic floor assessment and completely review the patient’s health history. Peters was instantly put at ease during her initial examination with Bayer in early 2017. “The fact Jane was referred to therapy was a good sign because it meant she didn’t need surgery,” Bayer said. “When I initially met with Jane, I conducted an entire pelvic floor assessment to see how her muscular functioning was doing.” From there, Peters’s therapy continued through the spring and summer, with her final session in July.
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Life before pelvic floor therapy was uncomfortable for Peters. She couldn’t stand still, sit, lie down, or drive, and only found minor reprieve from pain while pacing around the house. It wasn’t until she began physical therapy that she experienced relief. Following therapy, Peters is able to sit without needing a pillow or balled-up towel under her bottom. She’s also back to doing the things she loves, such as gardening. “I couldn’t be happier with my experience. I still have some tenderness, but I’m doing very well. I wish I had known about pelvic floor therapy years ago so I wouldn’t have suffered for so long,” Peters said.
I COULDN’T BE HAPPIER WITH MY EXPERIENCE. I WISH I HAD KNOWN ABOUT PELVIC FLOOR THERAPY YEARS AGO SO I WOULDN’T HAVE SUFFERED FOR SO LONG. — JANE PETERS
Bayer and Boddicker attribute Peters’s success to her determination in addressing the problem. She was a true advocate in her health throughout the process, refusing to settle until she was comfortable with a diagnosis and got the help she needed. “Anyone who is suffering from pain in their pelvic floor region, I highly recommend talking to your physician and be as comprehensive in your analysis of your pain as you can,” encouraged Peters. “Don’t put this off, and if you get help but are still suffering, don’t be afraid to ask to see someone else.”
Q&A WITH DR. GOLDSTEIN Dr. Goldstein sheds some light on pelvic floor disorders and the options available for treating urinary and fecal incontinence. What is the pelvic floor? The pelvic floor is a muscular structure that supports the pelvic organs of the bladder, uterus, vagina, and rectum. What are pelvic disorders? The most common pelvic disorders involve the weakening of the pelvic floor. That’s when you have bladder, rectal, or uterine prolapse. Prolapse is when the body parts essentially fall out of position. This prolapse causes incontinence with urine or stool. Who tends to have these disorders? Women are far more likely to have pelvic floor problems, as the main cause is a combination of childbirth and aging. The most common age group is women over 50. Men can have problems as well, but women are far more likely. Women who have had a large baby are also at higher risk. When should I seek help? Once you notice symptoms and they begin affecting your life, it’s time to seek help. What are the symptoms? The most common symptoms are urine or fecal leakage. Some women will experience leakage when they cough, sneeze or exercise. Other women will have leakage no matter the circumstances. With fecal incontinence, some women may leak gas or stool. There’s also an
increased urgency, where you may have limited or no warning that you need to use the bathroom. What are the treatment options? The most common treatment is pelvic floor therapy. Most people respond well to the therapy and do not need any further intervention, such as surgery. How long does treatment take? For many people, treatment is once a week for a few months. It’s very similar to going to physical therapy. Are there any risk factors? Women who have given birth are at a higher risk of developing pelvic floor problems. Additionally, anyone who is diabetic, people taking certain medications, and anyone who has undergone radiation treatment to the pelvis are at a higher risk. Those with neurological disorders and a history of rectal surgery are also at a greater risk. How common are these problems? This is a very common problem and women should not be embarrassed. Nearly 20 percent of the population has pelvic floor problems. Women suffer in silence and aren’t telling their doctors or family members. They don’t seek treatment and instead just make lifestyle adjustments. But it doesn’t have to be that way. We work with women to create a specific treatment plan and restore lifestyle and dignity. ■ Dr. Goldstein treats patients at Bayhealth Colon and Rectal Surgery in Milford and Lewes. To make an appointment call 302-503-2700 or learn at Bayhealth.org/Colon-and-Rectal.
DEPENDING ON DIAGNOSIS, PATIENTS MAY WORK WITH A VARIETY OF BAYHEALTH SPECIALISTS. PICTURED ABOVE, LEFT TO RIGHT: PHYSICAL THERAPIST JESSICA BAYER, DPT, WCS, CLT; UROLOGIST ANTOINETTE PTAK, MD; NURSE PRACTITIONER WENDY SURGUY, MSN, APRN, CWOCN; AND COLORECTAL SURGEON ELSA GOLDSTEIN AT THE PELVIC FLOOR CENTER. 7
Making exercise a passion There’s such a thing as a positive addiction, especially when healthy eating and exercise choices become a daily habit. Primary Care Physician Anita Bapat, MD, with Bayhealth Primary Care, Milford, suggests cultivating positive lifestyle habits to the point where they become a necessity, just like brushing your teeth in the morning. She offers some suggestions to help people develop a healthy lifestyle. GETTING STARTED Do a 30-minute daily workout in any form. She reminds people not to confuse exercise with exertion. Exercises can vary, and can even include yoga. “Exercise is not just for your heart, it’s for general well-being,” she said. People who are new to daily exercise can start gradually. Try 10 minutes a day to start, work up to 30 minutes. “Once you’re addicted, it will become just like taking a shower,” Dr. Bapat added.
Don’t rush into vigorous exercise without warming up first. “This prevents injury,” she said. Likewise, build in a time at the end of the exercise session to calm down. For people who are uncertain about what type of exercise will be most beneficial or wondering how to avoid injury or sequence a workout, Dr. Bapat advises seeking help by working with a trainer. She reminds people that there are other options, such as taking a Zumba class. AVOID BOREDOM Eating correctly and exercise work together to yield results. Dr. Bapat warns against eating a heavy meal just before exercise; the body will be working to digest food rather than burn calories. “The ideal time is early in the morning or right after work,” she said. Exercise doesn’t need to become boring or routine, because there are many options available. “Balance and complement,” said Dr. Bapat, who recommends combining walking and running with weight training and Pilates. “Challenge yourself with different routines, and your body will become more effective at losing weight,” she said. SEEK SUPPORT Information and encouragement can also come from other experts, such as certified dietitians or nutritionists. “They can teach you what foods to avoid,” she said. Speaking of food: Don’t use the word diet. Have a calorie plan, Dr. Bapat suggests.
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Don’t eat a heavy meal immediately after exercise. “Give yourself 30 minutes to allow the body to calm down,” she said. And there’s a bonus, once exercise becomes a habit, “You will see a difference in yourself, and eventually you will feel less hungry.” This is just one benefit that can’t be measured with a tape measure or on the scale. Stick with your exercise routine and healthy eating habits and they’ll become a healthy craving. You may also find yourself sharing tips with others. “People become more aware, aware of a healthy lifestyle, and they will begin promoting it,” said Dr. Bapat. “It will become a topic in meetings and in the workplace, inspiring people to stay with the routine.” ■
PEOPLE BECOME MORE AWARE, AWARE OF A HEALTHY LIFESTYLE, AND THEY WILL BEGIN PROMOTING IT. — ANITA BAPAT, MD
Visit Bayhealth.org/Find-A-Doc or call 1-866-BAY-DOCS (229-3627) to find support from a Bayhealth physician.
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VISIT BAYHEALTH.ORG/CLASSES FOR A COMPLETE LIST OF CLASSES AND EVENTS.
STEPS EDUCATION LECTURES Led by expert speakers, these lectures cover a wide variety of health topics targeting the 50+ age group. For more information, visit Bayhealth.org/STEPS or call 302-744-7135.
Maternity BIRTH INN AND BEYOND TOURS AT MILFORD MEMORIAL Come for a tour of our unique facility, where we offer the convenience of birth and recovery in the same private room. For more information, call 302-430-5739. BREASTFEEDING 101 Come learn the basics about breastfeeding. Support persons are encouraged to attend. This class is offered the first Tuesday of every month at Milford Memorial and the third Tuesday of each month at Bayhealth Hospital, Kent Campus. Visit Bayhealth.org/Classes to register. BREASTFEEDING SUPPORT GROUP While breastfeeding is natural, it’s not always easy for new moms. Our Breastfeeding Support Group offers an encouraging environment. For more information, call 302-744-7233.
Healthy Aging STEPS CARDIOVASCULAR CLINICS Your personal numbers — blood pressure, heart rate, pulse oximetry, and weight — can tell you a great deal about your health. Bayhealth nurses take careful readings when you come to one of our STEPS clinics. And it’s free! For more information, call 302-744-7135.
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A MATTER OF BALANCE A Matter of Balance is an award-winning program designed to manage falls and increase activity levels in older adults. The program is free, but registration is required! To register, visit Bayhealth.org/Classes or call 302-744-7135 or 1-877-453-7107.
Weight Loss SURGICAL WEIGHT LOSS INFORMATION SEMINAR Learn more about the Bayhealth Bariatric Program including the Laparoscopic Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass and the Laparoscopic Sleeve Gastrectomy. Find out about the risks, benefits, and outcomes. Meet the surgeons and staff of the bariatric program, ask them questions, and see if you meet the criteria for bariatric surgery. These seminars are free of charge and all are welcome. To register, call the Bayhealth Bariatric Office at 302-430-5454.
2018 SPRING CLASSES Screenings
Lung Care
MAMMOGRAMS Each month, Bayhealth hosts regular mammogram screenings at multiple locations at no cost to those who are uninsured or underinsured. To register, call 302-430-5143 or 302-744-6528.
BETTER BREATHERS This support group is for people with chronic obstructive lung disease and their family members. For more information, please call Clinical Educator Jamann Caselles at 302-744-6227 or Respiratory Care Manager Rachael Ali-Permell at 302-430-5648.
CLINICAL BREAST EXAMS A clinical breast exam is a physical examination done by a healthcare practitioner trained to notice abnormalities in the breast tissue. Bayhealth offers free clinical breast exams to the community. Registration is required! To register, call Harriet Pinkston at 302-744-6528. Â
Lace up for
Bayhealth nurses!
FREEDOM FROM SMOKINGÂŽ This free seven-week program offers support and guidance to help you quit using tobacco products. For more information, call Jamann Caselles at 302-744-6227.
Join Bayhealth nurses for the 1st Annual Bayhealth Nurse on the Run 5K Run/ Walk to benefit nursing education. Bayhealth is participating in the American Nurses Association 2017 Year of the Healthy Nurse Challenge, which encourages nurses to be the healthiest versions of themselves. While aimed at nurses, the challenge is open to everyone, including the community. Bayhealth nurses want you to live your healthiest life, and invite you and your family to participate in the 5K. The event will be held on Saturday, March 24, 2018, at 10 a.m. at the Wild Quail Country Club in Camden-Wyoming, Delaware. Registration is $25 until March 16 and $30 on race day. Participants will receive a TECH shirt that wicks away sweat. Visit TriSportsEvents.com to register.
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Balancing the effects of aging Getting old is for the birds. At least that’s how the “old” saying goes. But in today’s world, aging doesn’t have to be a scary or overwhelming process. No one can stop the clock on aging — but everyone can be prepared for some of the challenges that may lie ahead. “Having a plan in place makes all the different when it comes to getting older,” said Dan Wagner, an educator at Bayhealth who specializes in teaching classes on aging and balance. “A lot of people are afraid of getting older. We want to help take away that fear by showing people what changes will likely occur, and how to stay on top of them.” A big part of that is falls prevention. Many seniors think falls are a normal part of the aging process, and this is simply not true. “Falls prevention is a must for older patients,” said Preeti Gupta, MD, with Bayhealth Primary Care, Milford. “The risk of falls increases as we age, as does the likelihood we’ll be seriously hurt by a fall. We need to do all we can to stop falls before they happen.”
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Many changes take place in the body and our environment over time, so it’s important to be aware, and talk to your doctor about any concerns. MUSCLE CHANGES As we get older, our muscles are slowly getting weaker. “It happens over time and it’s hard to avoid,” said Wagner. “Staying active and getting out helps keep your skills sharp. The more homebound you are, the more at risk you are of losing your flexibility and strength.” It’s also important to maintain a healthy lifestyle. “I still want my older patients to exercise as often as possible, especially strength training,” said Dr. Gupta. “Every little bit will make a big difference.” VISION AND HEARING The normal aging process causes gradual losses of the sensory system, which includes vision and hearing. “These changes begin around age 50. At this time vision can start to be an issue, as well as hearing. Both vision and hearing play a crucial role in balance,” said Dr. Gupta. “It’s important that older patients continue to go to the eye doctor for regular visits and have their hearing checked at their primary care office.”
AGING DOESN’T HAVE TO BE OVERWHELMING; THERE ARE WAYS TO STAY ON TOP OF THE CHANGES AS THEY COME. — PREETI GUPTA, MD
MEDICATIONS
STAY EDUCATED
Many seniors may not realize that the medications they take can affect their balance. Taking certain medications in combination can also be problematic.
In the end, it’s important older adults realize aging isn’t what causes falls, it’s the underlying issues. Falls don’t have to be a normal part of everyday life. One easy way to learn more about falls prevention and simple changes is to take the “A Matter of Balance” courses offered at Bayhealth.
“Our best advice to older patients is to use only one pharmacy,” said Wagner. “Some patients will use the pharmacy closest to each of their doctors. In that instance, the pharmacists aren’t able to see all of the medications a patient is taking, and won’t be able to identify harmful medication interactions.” HOUSEHOLD DANGERS While many people don’t want to make any changes to their home, simple precautions can have a big impact. “It’s very easy for our older patients to make simple changes to their home to increase safety,” said Dr. Gupta. “Removing loose rugs, reducing the crowding of furniture, getting rid of any clutter on staircases and in hallways, having proper lighting in the house, and using non-slippery footwear go a long way toward reducing the risk of falls.”
“I love teaching these classes,” said Wagner. “They are a great way for older folks to come learn more about the changes that take place as people get older and what simple steps they can take to stay active.” Preventing falls is critical when it comes to ensuring our aging population can continue to live at home in a safe environment. “We want older adults to get out, be social, and stay active,” said Dr. Gupta. “Aging doesn’t have to be overwhelming; there are ways to stay on top of the changes as they come.” ■ If you are in need of a physician, call 1-866-BAY-DOCS (229-3627) to find a provider that fits your needs.
FIND YOUR BALANCE AT A FREE BAYHEALTH CLASS Many older adults experience concerns about falling and restrict their activities. A Matter of Balance is an award-winning program designed to manage falls and increase activity levels. These free classes are held once a week for eight weeks. The classes are two hours each. The program
is offered at various locations statewide — including at Bayhealth in Smyrna, Dover, and Milford. Pre-registration is required. Visit Bayhealth.org/Classes or call 302-744-7135 to learn more about the A Matter of Balance classes and our STEPS to Healthy Aging program. 13
Emergency care for expecting mothers Did you know there is an Obstetrical Emergency Department (OBED) at Bayhealth Milford Memorial for women who need this type of specialized care? “The Obstetrical ED, which was established on Dec. 19, 2013, serves, on average, 130 patients per month and up to 15 patients per day,” said Senior Nurse Manager of Women’s and Children’s Services Karen Kelly, MSN, RNC-OB. Located adjacent to the Labor, Deliver, Recovery, and Postpartum (LDRP) Suites on the Women’s Services floor, the OBED is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, including holidays. It is staffed with a board-certified OB-GYN physician and an experienced OB registered nurse. WHEN TO ACCESS THE OBSTETRICAL ED “The Obstetrical Emergency Department is available when a woman feels she’s experiencing a gynecological or obstetrical emergency and can’t make contact with her own provider,” said
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OB-GYN Hospitalist Michael Meyer, DO. “It is not intended for routine care. We make referrals and help patients gain access to local providers as well.” As Kelly also explains, in the case of labor and delivery, the patient’s primary physician would generally handle this aspect of care, but the OB-GYN hospitalists and experienced labor and delivery nurses are available if needed. HOW TO ACCESS THE OBSTETRICAL ED To access the OBED, women should go to the main Emergency Department (ED) at Bayhealth Milford Memorial. Staff there will do triage and work together with the OB-GYN hospitalists to determine if the patient should be treated in the main ED or in the OBED.
BENEFITS PROVIDED BY THE OBED
THE [OBED] IS AVAILABLE WHEN A WOMAN FEELS SHE’S EXPERIENCING A GYNECOLOGICAL OR OBSTETRICAL EMERGENCY AND CAN’T MAKE CONTACT WITH HER OWN PROVIDER — MICHAEL MEYER, DO
“For instance, if a patient is potentially infectious with something like the flu, we wouldn’t bring her to the OBED. A patient with asthma should also stay in the more fully staffed main ED,” explained Dr. Meyer.
The Obstetrical Emergency Department was created so there would be an inpatient, boardcertified OB-GYN with years of experience available to care for patients 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Some of the other benefits provided include: A decrease in length of stay A reduction in the number of patients who leave the emergency room without being seen An improvement in overall patient satisfaction A reduction in the wait times for inpatient admissions “In a nutshell, the OBED helps improve patient access specialty care and boost patient safety and outcomes,” said Senior Director of Women’s and Children’s Services Ronnie Kopec, RN, MS, NE, BC. ■ Visit Bayhealth.org/OBhospitalist to learn more about the OBED and OB hospitalists at Bayhealth Milford Memorial.
MEET THE OB-GYN HOSPITALISTS TRACEY GRIM, MD American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists
Postgraduate Training: Temple University Hospital; Medical College of Pennsylvania (Drexel University) Medical Education: Temple University School of Medicine FREDERICKA HELLER, MD, FACOG American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists
Postgraduate Training: Resident, Reading Hospital and Medical Center Medical Education: University of Pennsylvania Medical School WALTER KOBASA JR., MD American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists
Postgraduate Training: Resident, Geisinger Medical Center; Resident, Polyclinic Medical Center; Internship, Greater Baltimore Medical Center Medical Education: St. George’s University School of Medicine MICHAEL MEYER, DO American College of Osteopathic Obstetricians and Gynecologists
Postgraduate Training: Resident, Community Hospital of Lancaster; Internship, Lancaster Osteopathic Hospital Medical Education: The Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine 15
Spring into action to combat allergies Spring is around the corner. The ground is warming up. Flowers and plants are blooming, and pollen is in the air. With this time of year come spring allergies, and allergy sufferers may experience immune system reactions such as coughing, sneezing, itchy eyes, a scratchy throat, and more. Roughly 50 million people in the United States suffer from allergies, but with the proper preparation, Bayhealth Otolaryngologist Catherine Wright, MD, with Bayhealth ENT, Milford and Dover, says allergy sufferers can better enjoy the warmer weather. “When the weather shifts, the triggers will begin. When it’s colder longer and the ground freezes, it’s not bad. When we have a milder winter, we see a lot of pollen and mold earlier in the season,” Dr. Wright says. “If you can time it right with prevention techniques a couple of weeks before the weather changes, you and your nose will be ready.” HERE ARE DR. WRIGHT’S SPRING ALLERGY PREVENTION TIPS: Know your trigger points. Common spring allergies include grass and weed pollen, trees, and mold. Start a nasal steroid a couple of weeks before spring. Nasal sprays decrease inflammation and can decrease reactions to allergens. It takes four weeks for nasal sprays to be fully effective. If you start two weeks beforehand, Dr. Wright says your nose will be ready and symptoms won’t be as bad.
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Know when to take other medications. Antihistamines such as Zyrtec or Claritin treat symptoms. Taking them two to three weeks before spring won’t do sufferers any good unless they’re suffering from symptoms. “Using nasal sprays early will help you, but don’t take antihistamines if you don’t need them,” Dr. Wright said. Wash away your allergens by showering and rinsing your nose with saline, especially after cleaning your house or doing yard work. “Allergens are in your nose, which can cause a reaction. By ‘washing’ your nose, you’re pushing the allergens out of your body,” Dr. Wright said. This can be done using a sinus rinse kit or a neti pot. People who suffer from chronic allergies may not experience relief with these preventive techniques. In these cases, allergy shots can help a person’s body acclimate to allergens. “These shots help the body learn how to react to the allergen so when environmental allergies begin, they’re not as bad,” Dr. Wright said. ■ Bayhealth allergy shot clinics are held at Bayhealth ENT’s locations in Dover and Milford. A referral from your primary care physician may be needed before an appointment can be made. To make an appointment at Bayhealth ENT, call 302-674-3752. For more information visit Bayhealth.org/Bayhealth-ENT-Milford.
Generations of support for local healthcare in Milford As part of its Campaign for Bayhealth — Phase III fundraising initiative, the Bayhealth Foundation has engaged local business owners in supporting the health campus project in southern Delaware. When approached, Charlie Burton and the management team at I.G. Burton & Co., exceeded the Foundation’s expectations by making a multiyear pledge. Burton is the fifth-generation owner of the dealership, and the company has a living legacy of supporting the town of Milford’s development. In fact, the Burton dealership arranged for the donation of Milford Memorial Hospital’s very first ambulance. Burton feels compelled to support Milford. He and his company have deep roots in the community and believe in its future. Burton is involved in multiple community organizations and serves on boards and committees that promote the region’s health. “It’s extremely important for us to give back,” said Burton. “Milford Memorial is our major hospital. The health campus will be just down the road. If our families or employees get hurt or sick, that’s where they’ll go.” Burton calls Bayhealth’s Sussex Campus a “game changer” for Milford and the surrounding region. “Many retirees are moving into the area, and with a larger population, we need more services.” The support of Burton and his team is meaningful to the larger success of the campaign, said Lindsay Rhodenbaugh, president of the Bayhealth Foundation. “Their generous, leadership-level
IT’S EXTREMELY IMPORTANT FOR US TO GIVE BACK. THE HEALTH CAMPUS WILL BE JUST DOWN THE ROAD. — CHARLIE BURTON
commitment helped us surpass the $15 million goal of the Campaign for Bayhealth — Phase III, and puts I.G. Burton & Co. in the top tier of supporters from the southern Delaware business community,” he said. “I’ve known Charlie and his executive team — Pete Renzi, M.J. Lofland, and George Schieffer — my entire life,” said Bill Strickland, chair of the Campaign for Bayhealth — Phase III. “They have always set the pace for generosity connected to important causes and institutions in our area. We deeply appreciate this extraordinary show of support for Bayhealth and its vision for world-class healthcare in southern Delaware.” For Burton, supporting the health campus project is a no-brainer. “If you can help out, then help out.” ■ Visit ImagineDE.com for more information about the new health campus in southern Delaware. Contact the Bayhealth Foundation at 302-744-7015 to learn how you can support this exciting project.
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Celebrating Milford’s past with an eye on the future Bayhealth Milford Memorial begins its final year of operations with the start of 2018. The new Bayhealth Hospital, Sussex Campus will soon replace the aging Clarke Avenue facility. As we look at the history of Milford Memorial Hospital, we are reminded that over the past century the basic needs of our community remain the same — quality healthcare, closer to home. As we move forward, we also remember the past. In the early 1900s people living in southern Delaware realized a need for better healthcare. As the daughter-in-law of a Milford doctor, Mary Louise Donnell Marshall noticed patients were dying due to a lack of care. Patients who needed surgery were often sent to Wilmington and Philadelphia on cots placed in baggage cars on trains. Many of them didn’t survive the journey. In 1907, Mary Marshall and friends began raising money for a local hospital. On April 12, 1909, the new hospital received its first patient, but soon problems forced the emergency hospital to close.
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During the 1912–13 session of the General Assembly of Delaware, a bill authorized the establishment of a 12-bed emergency hospital in downtown Milford. Mary Marshall’s sons, Dr. S.M.D. “Sam” Marshall and Dr. William “Wid” Marshall, Jr., provided care at the new facility on 110 N.W. Front Street. Early records show Milford Emergency Hospital doubled the number of patients it treated in just one year. But World War I led to another closing, as both Marshall brothers were called to war. While they were gone, Dr. Frank Grier assisted in raising funds for the hospital. On July 1, 1921, Milford Emergency Hospital reopened. According to records, hospital charges were $5 per day for a private room and $10 for an operating room. In 1925, the Milford Emergency Hospital School of Nursing officially opened. Classes were held in the hospital after a full day of work on the floor. The nursing school later moved next door to the Grier Building, named after Dr. G. Layton Grier. It closed in 1976 — just one year after its 50th anniversary celebration.
Present-day Milford Memorial Hospital opened in 1938 as a 100-bed general hospital. The original building entrance is still visible from Clarke Avenue. Various additions to the hospital have taken place over the past few decades. In 1950, the Milford Memorial Hospital Board of Directors voted to build a four-story addition. In the 1960s, a new $3 million wing was added. Another major expansion took place in 1985, as the $6 million Burton-Fischer wing was built. In 1997, Milford Memorial Hospital merged with Kent General Hospital, becoming Bayhealth. Discussions began about building a replacement hospital facility in southern Delaware. Nearly 20 years later, those talks have turned into reality. Bayhealth recognizes healthcare has evolved dramatically since the hospital was originally designed and constructed, and it continues to evolve. Changes include an overall trend toward outpatient services, greater emphasis on patient privacy, more complex medical equipment, participation by families in caring for patients, and greater need for enhanced staff efficiency and workflow design. These are the changes driving the overall design of the new Bayhealth Hospital, Sussex Campus. As we look back at what we have achieved, we look forward to building an even brighter future together. â– Throughout 2018, Bayhealth will celebrate the impact that Bayhealth Milford Memorial has had on the southern Delaware community. Visit ImagineDE.com to learn about events and the latest happenings on the Bayhealth Sussex Campus.
A LOOK BACK AT BAYHEALTH MILFORD MEMORIAL
1907 Mary Marshall and friends began raising money for a local hospital.
1921 Milford Emergency Hospital opens for a second time on July 1.
1938 Present-day Bayhealth Milford Memorial Hospital opens with 100 beds.
1954 The new hospital addition, The Grier Building, named after Dr. G. Layton Grier, opens and houses the nursing school.
1985 A $6 million addition is built named the Burton-Fischer Wing, which further improved Outpatient Services.
1997 Milford Memorial and Kent General merge to become Bayhealth.
2001 A $6 million expansion includes a regional Cancer Center and a new hospital entrance.
2004 A new Emergency and Diagnostic Imaging area are completed.
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Find your place on our volunteer team It’s an exciting season at Bayhealth. As construction continues on the new Bayhealth Sussex Campus, it’s a great time to consider becoming a volunteer. Bayhealth volunteers contribute more than 50,000 hours each year to our health system. Volunteers work in all facets of the hospital — from clerical services to wayfinding, and even support for the emergency department — and are an integral part of our mission to improve the health status of all members of the Bayhealth community. Our volunteers are a diverse group that includes senior citizens, retirees, students, and young professionals. No medical experience is necessary for any of the volunteers. ■ Visit Bayhealth.org/Volunteers or call 302-430-5621 to learn more about volunteering opportunities at Bayhealth.
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