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News: Press Releases
Here you will find the latest information, feature stories, plus comprehensive articles in the latest treatment options and research at Altoona Regional Health System.
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1/25/12 - ALTOONA REGIONAL HEALTHY LIVING CLUB SETS FEBRUARY PROGRAMS 1/20/12 - FRIENDS OF ALTOONA REGIONAL HEALTH SYSTEM AWARD SCHOLARSHIPS 1/19/12 - CAR CLUB DONATES TO RADIATION ONCOLOGY FUND-RAISING EFFORT 1/19/12 - M. ANN WETZEL, M.D., RETIRES AFTER 26 YEARS OF PRACTICE 1/19/12 - ALTOONA REGIONAL OFFERS SUPPORT GROUPS/CLINICS IN FEBRUARY 1/19/12 - TRAUMA SURGEON INITIATED INTO AMERICAN COLLEGE OF SURGEONS 1/19/12 - ALTOONA REGIONAL DIRECTOR PUBLISHES RESEARCH ARTICLE ABOUT HEALTH CARE WORKER OCCUPATIONAL INJURY PATTERNS 1/19/12 - FRIENDS OF ALTOONA REGIONAL HEALTH SYSTEM SEATS NEW OFFICERS 1/16/12 - 'LAUGH MORE, LIVE BETTER' IS MESSAGE OF SPEAKER FOR WOMEN'S NIGHT OUT EVENT IN APRIL 1/07/12 - TRAUMA SURGEON JOHANNES SCHOKKER RETIRES 1/06/12 - NEW DIRECTOR HIRED FOR ENVIRONMENTAL SERVICES 1/04/12 - ALTOONA REGIONAL HEALTHY LIVING CLUB SETS JANUARY PROGRAMS 1/03/12 - SOUTHERN ALLEGHENIES ELITE ORTHOPEDICS OPENS 1/03/12 - BLAIR COUNTY'S FIRST BABY BORN AT ALTOONA REGIONAL HEALTH SYSTEM 12/27/11 - CO-FACILITATOR HONORED FOR 25 YEARS OF SERVICE TO SUPPORT GROUP 12/24/11 - PATIENT ACCESS NAMES MANAGERS 12/23/11 - LAUREN DEUR, M.D., JOINS LEXINGTON RADIOLOGY 12/21/11 - FOUNDATION HOLIDAY EVENT RAISES $46,500 12/20/11 - NEW ORTHOPEDIC PRACTICE TO OPEN 12/19/11 - ALTOONA REGIONAL STAFF & VOLUNTEERS DONATE TO THE FAMILY RESOURCE CENTER OF UNITED WAY'S TOASTY TODDLER CAMPAIGN 12/16/11 - PENN STATE ALTOONA WOMEN'S VOLLEYBALL ASSISTS BREAST CANCER AWARENESS 12/15/11 - CANCER CENTER DOCTOR APPOINTED ADJUNCT ASSISTANT PROFESSOR OF RADIATION ONCOLOGY AT UNIVERSITY OF PITTSBURGH 12/15/11 - MENORAH LIGHTING CEREMONY SET FOR DEC. 21 12/06/11 - TREE LIGHTING FESTIVITIES FRIDAY, DECEMBER 9 January 25, 2012 - ALTOONA REGIONAL HEALTHY LIVING CLUB SETS FEBRUARY PROGRAMSAltoona Regional Health System's Healthy Living Club has scheduled the following educational programs and screenings for February as a community service. Call 889-2630 or 1-888-313-4665 to make an appointment or to register unless otherwise indicated. The Altoona Hospital Campus is at 620 Howard Ave.; the 7th Avenue Campus is at 2500 7th Ave.; the Education Center is at 2621 8th Ave., and Station Medical Center is at 17th Street and 9th Avenue.A Child Safety Seat Checkup Station will be held from 9:30-11 a.m. Friday, Feb. 10, at the Altoona Hospital Campus parking garage, Blue Level. Look for the Safe Kids van. No fee. It is by appointment only. To make an appointment, call Safe Kids Blair County at 889-7802. Find out if your child's safety seat is installed properly. Your child's life may depend on it. Free osteoporosis screenings (heel scans) for men and women will be held by appointment only from 12:30-3 p.m. on Friday, Feb. 10, at Station Medical Center, Imaging Services department. No fee. Osteoporosis is often called the "silent disease" because bone loss happens without symptoms. Osteoporosis occurs when, over time, bone loss causes bones to become porous, brittle and more likely to break. This painless screening takes just a few minutes and assesses bone density in the heel (a good indicator of bone health and fracture risk) by using ultrasound. Please be prepared to remove shoes and socks. A screening for peripheral artery disease (PAD) will be held by appointment only from 8 a.m.-2:30 p.m. on Wednesday, Feb. 8, at the Vascular Institute, 3rd floor, Outpatient Center, Altoona Hospital Campus. No fee. Call 889-2005 or 1-877-855-8152 to schedule your appointment. Peripheral artery disease occurs when plaque clogs leg arteries or vessels and restricts blood flow. Untreated PAD not only can make walking difficult but may increase your risk of heart attack or stroke. Kay Adams, nurse practitioner and manager of Central Pa. Cardiovascular Associates, will check for PAD with an ABI (ankle-brachial index) screen, a painless process in which blood pressure is measured in legs and arms to determine blood flow. Please be prepared to remove shoes and socks. No fee. Join Dr. Linda Lewallen, cardiologist with Central Pa. Cardiology, for "The Little Known Symptoms of Heart Disease," on Thursday, Feb. 16. The program begins with lunch at 11 a.m. then the program from 11:30 a.m. until 1 p.m. at the 7th Avenue Campus Education Center, Trzeciak Conference Suite. No fee. Registration required. While most of us know that chest pain or discomfort can be a symptom of heart disease, many are unaware of other key symptoms, such as cardiac syncope. That feeling of lightheadedness and dizziness may not be from missing a meal. Syncope can be a sign that the heart is beating too slowly (brachycardia) or too fast (tachycardia), and both are life-threatening. Dr. Lewallen will discuss cardiac syncope and other key symptoms of heart disease, along with evaluation and treatment options. Ample time will be allotted for questions. Seniors for Safe Driving will be offered from 5-8:30 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 7, and Wednesday, Feb. 8, in the Allegheny Room, 6th floor, Outpatient Center, Altoona Hospital Campus. Fee $16. Registration required. Call 1.800.559.4880 or log on to www.sfsd-pa.com. This classroom course covers age-related physical changes, perceptual skills, rules of the road and more. All automobile insurance companies in Pennsylvania provide a premium discount to graduates age 55 and older. Most require that both spouses insured under the same policy take the class to receive a discount. Dr. Sheela Kerstetter, a dermatologist with Blair Medical Associates, presents "Is It Skin Cancer?" from 6:30-8 p.m. on Thursday, Feb. 16, in Magee Lecture Hall, 6th floor, Outpatient Center, Altoona Hospital Campus. No fee. Registration required. Class size limited to 50. Dr. Kerstetter will discuss how to identify skin cancer and explain a new office treatment - photodynamic therapy - for actinic keratosis, a common skin lesion that, if left untreated, may turn into skin cancer. "The Making of a Bully" will be presented by the Rev. David Hammerle on Monday, Feb. 20, and is for adults only. The two-hour program, which begins at 7 p.m., answers these questions: At what point does a child choose to become a bully? What do the bully and his/her victim have in common? How do you overcome a bully? It will focus on the bully in school and the work force and on ways to break the intimidation that we allow some to hold over us. The program will be in the Station Medical Center classroom. A donation of $10 is requested to help cover cost of handouts but is not required. Registration is required. Rev. Hammerle is a member of Altoona Regional's Pastoral Care team, a counselor, and has taught developmental psychology. Offering 0.2 CEUs. 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January 20, 2012 - FRIENDS OF ALTOONA REGIONAL HEALTH SYSTEM AWARD SCHOLARSHIPSFriends of Altoona Regional Health System recently awarded $500 scholarships to Kierston O'Dellick of Altoona and Erin Edmiston of Hollidaysburg.Friends donates scholarships to two employees' relatives who are pursuing higher education in health care. O'Dellick is the daughter of Christine LaRosa of Case Management. She is pursuing a Nursing degree at the Conemaugh School of Nursing. Erin, daughter of Kelly Edmiston of Neurology/Sleep Lab, is a student at Penn State University, University Park, and is pursuing a degree in Nutritional Sciences. TOP ^
January 19, 2012 - CAR CLUB DONATES TO RADIATION ONCOLOGY FUND-RAISING EFFORT
Fred Thursfield (left) is president of the Altoona Regional Health System Foundation for Life, which raises funds to support exceptional nonprofit health care for everyone in this region. The Foundation is raising funds for a new cancer-killing linear accelerator. The car club raises money for a variety of local charities. TOP ^
January 19, 2012 - M. ANN WETZEL, M.D., RETIRES AFTER 26 YEARS OF PRACTICE
Dr. Wetzel became a member of the Altoona Hospital Medical Staff in 1985. She had private practices in Altoona and in Patton since 1989. Immediately prior, she shared a practice with Suhas Hasabnis, M.D. She first practiced with Glendale Medical Associates. Throughout her tenure, she worked with the Women's Health and Wellness Program, the Pregnancy Care Center and Altoona Family Physicians. Dr. Wetzel graduated from Juniata College, Huntingdon, with a bachelor's degree in pre-med. She is a graduate of Tufts Medical School and did her residency at Rush Presbyterian-St. Luke's Hospital in Chicago, where she specialized in OB/GYN. TOP ^
January 19, 2012 - ALTOONA REGIONAL OFFERS SUPPORT GROUPS/CLINICS IN FEBRUARYAltoona Regional Health System offers the following support group meetings and patient clinics in February as a public service to the community. They are listed alphabetically according to the campus on which they are conducted.Support groups meeting on the Altoona Hospital Campus, 620 Howard Ave., use the Allegheny and Bedford rooms and the Rotunda on the 6th floor of the Outpatient Center, and Dining Room B adjacent to the cafeteria on Tower 4. Alzheimer's Disease Support Group, meets at 6:30 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 28, in the Allegheny Room. For information, call 889-2141. Bariatric Information Sessions by Allegheny Regional Surgical Associates, 5-6 p.m., Wednesday, Feb. 15, Rotunda. For information, call 943-7040. The Bariatric Support Group, for people who have had or are thinking of having gastric banding, meets at 6 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 2, in the Rotunda. Call 943-7040 for information. Breastfeeding classes are offered to expectant parents Wednesdays, Feb. 1 and 8, from 6-8 p.m. in the Rotunda. Two-part class. Participants are encouraged to attend both parts. Call 889-2557 for information. The Breastfeeding Support Group meets at 10 a.m. and 5:30 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 22. Please call for room locations, 889-2557. The Caregivers Corner Support Group meets at 11:30 a.m. Thursday, Feb. 2, at Hoss's in Duncansville. For information, call 889-3123. The Depression and Bipolar Support Group meets at 7 p.m. Wednesdays in Dining Room B. Call 889-2141 for information. Diabetes Outpatient Education is available by individual appointment and group sessions. A referral by a physician is required. Call 889-2487 for information. Perinatal Loss Support Group meets 7-8:30 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 7, at Blair Medical Center, 501 Howard Ave., Building F, Suite 5, Laurel Conference Room. For people who have experienced the loss of an infant, either through miscarriage, stillbirth or newborn loss. For more information, call 889-2141. Parkinson's Disease Support Group meets at 11 a.m. Monday, Feb. 27, Hoss's Steak & Sea House, Valley View Boulevard, Altoona, 889-2141. Call 889-214 for information. The Support Group for Those Who Have Lost a Loved One to Suicide meets at 7 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 16, in the Access Center, Blair Medical Center, Building C, 501 Howard Ave. Call 889-2706 for meeting information. The following support groups and clinics meet at the 7th Avenue Campus, 2500 7th Ave. The Trzeciak Conference Suite is in the Education Center at 2621 8th Ave. For Kaufman Dining Room and fourth floor waiting room, please use the 7th Avenue entrance. For Physical Medicine, please use ER entrance on 8th Avenue. Alcoholics Anonymous meets at 8 p.m. every Monday in Kaufman Dining Room. For information, call 946-9002. The Breast Cancer Support Group meets from 6 to 7:30 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 2, in the Trzeciak Conference Suite. Call 674-3708. The Faith-based Bereavement/Grief Support Group meets at 6 p.m. Wednesdays, Feb. 1 and 15, in the fourth floor waiting room. For information, call 889-4323. The Station Medical Center is located at 17th Street and 9th Avenue. To find the meeting room, use the Altoona Regional Health System outpatient services entrance, which is on the 17th Street end of the complex. Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation is around the corner from the main entrance. The Stroke Support Group meets from noon to 2 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 14, in the meeting room. For information, call 889-2356. Wheelchair Clinics will be held at 10:30 a.m., 11:30 and 1:30 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 14, in the Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation department. Physician referral required. Call for information and appointment, 889-4463. TOP ^
January 19, 2012 - TRAUMA SURGEON INITIATED INTO AMERICAN COLLEGE OF SURGEONS
Dr. Guerrero practices with Altoona Trauma/Emergency General Surgery, a unique physician practice that provides care to trauma patients and general surgery patients, especially those who need acute surgical care resulting from medical/surgical disease or injury. He received a medical doctorate in 2004 from Oregon Health & Science University. In 2009, Dr. Guerrero attained board certification from the American Board of Surgery. He has a strong professional interest in trauma surgery and holds membership in other professional societies, including the Royal Society of Medicine. By meeting the college's stringent membership requirements, fellows of the college have earned the distinguished right to use the designation of "F.A.C.S." (Fellow, American College of Surgeons) after their names. An applicant for fellowship must be a graduate of an approved medical school; must have completed advanced training in one of the 14 surgical specialties recognized by the college; must possess certification by an American surgical specialty board or appropriate certification by the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada, and must have been in practice in the same geographic locations for at least one year at the time of his application. Before admission into fellowship, the surgeon must further demonstrate ethical fitness and professional proficiency, and his acceptance as a fellow of the college must be approved by three-fourths of its board of regents. TOP ^
January 19, 2012 - ALTOONA REGIONAL DIRECTOR PUBLISHES RESEARCH ARTICLE ABOUT HEALTH CARE WORKER OCCUPATIONAL INJURY PATTERNS
The magazine is the official journal of the Academy of Medical Surgical Nurses. It provides readers with multidisciplinary information they need to provide patient care and enhance nursing practice. The article, "Assessment of Nurses' and Therapists' Occupational Musculoskeletal Injuries," resulted from a study conducted at Altoona Regional through the research program in collaboration with Indiana University of Pennsylvania. Theresa Gropelli Ph.D, R.N., associate professor, Indiana University of Pennsylvania, co-authored the article. Corle facilitated the research efforts when she was the hospital's research coordinator. The study investigated health care worker occupational injury patterns to gain a better understanding of them. Another arm of the study was published in the American Association of Occupational Health Nurses Journal, April 2010. To read more, go to: www.medsurgnursing.net TOP ^
January 19, 2012 - FRIENDS OF ALTOONA REGIONAL HEALTH SYSTEM SEATS NEW OFFICERS
The purpose of Friends is to raise funds in support of programs and services to benefit the patients of Altoona Regional. This is accomplished through various fund-raising activities, both annually and ongoing. To read more about Friends' philanthropic efforts, go to www.altoonaregional.org/volunteers_friends.htm Additionally, Friends supports academic excellence in students pursuing careers in health care-related fields by awarding several scholarships throughout the year. Two annual scholarships ($500 each) are awarded to members of the Altoona Regional School of Medical Technology and two are awarded to children of health system employees. Friends of Altoona Regional is accepting new members. Dues are $5 per year or $50 for a lifetime membership. "New members are needed to help keep this organization strong and active," said President Peggy Cawthern. "If you like to sew, come share your talent with others by joining Friends' sewing committee, which makes hand puppets for the youngest patients. Or, if you know people in the community who make good speakers, join our hospitality committee, which organizes our quarterly meetings. We have a number of committees and all would benefit from some new members who have time and talent to share." To join Friends, call 889.7826 or fill out an online application at www.altoonaregional.org/volunteers_friendsapp.htm The next meeting is March 27. Call 889-2151 for more information. Photo: Newly elected officers are (from left): seated - Polly Mickel, assistant treasurer; Carol Hooper, treasurer, and Peggy Coleman, corresponding secretary; standing - Alice Kotzatoski, vice president; Peggy Cawthern, president, and Lois Eakins, secretary. TOP ^
January 16, 2012 - 'LAUGH MORE, LIVE BETTER' IS MESSAGE OF SPEAKER FOR WOMEN'S NIGHT OUT EVENT IN APRIL
The Women's Night Out dinner and program is presented by Altoona Regional Health System's Healthy Living Club. Doors open at 5:45 p.m. and dinner is served at 6:45 p.m. Tickets cost $40 per person, and advance registration is required. To register online visit www.altoonaregional.org/WNO or call 814.889.2630 or 888.313.4665 Cea Cohen Elliott draws upon her wealth of experience as a wellness and fitness coach and seminar and workshop leader. Her mission is to help others laugh more and live better. She speaks to thousands of people of all ages all over the country, including children, adults and senior citizens. Her presentations generate the same response - laughter. With a contagious humor and a love of life, Cea invites her audience to listen with their hearts and embrace their true spirit by "laughing for the health of it." "For more than 20 years, we have been bringing the women of Blair County an evening of great food, belly laughs, and 'aha moments' all rolled into one event," said Sherry Turchetta, event organizer and community educator. "Tickets sell out fast because so many of our attendees come year after year. They know we deliver a speaker who is humorous and witty while providing insightful tips for healthier living." The night will feature fund-raisers sponsored by Friends of Altoona Regional and the Altoona Regional Health System Foundation for Life. Attendees will have the opportunity to buy chances or bid on silent auction items of jewelry donated by Your Jewelry Box, 908 Logan Blvd., Altoona. TOP ^
January 7, 2012 - TRAUMA SURGEON JOHANNES SCHOKKER RETIRES
He joined the Altoona Regional Medical Staff on June 28, 2000, as one of the Trauma Service's original surgeons. Dr. Schokker received an undergraduate degree in chemistry from the University of California at Berkeley in 1962. He completed his doctor of medicine degree at the University of Michigan Medical School in Ann Arbor in 1966. At the University of Missouri Medical School, Columbia, he completed an internship and residency in surgery. Before coming to Altoona, Dr. Schokker served as trauma medical director at St. Mary's Health Center in Jefferson City, Mo., and in various positions on the medical staff, culminating as president. TOP ^
January 6, 2012 - NEW DIRECTOR HIRED FOR ENVIRONMENTAL SERVICES
Kimble, who is relocating from Chattanooga, Tenn., has more than 18 years of experience in environmental services. He has worked for large health care management companies, in addition to Xanitos, the current manager of Environment Services at Altoona Regional. Before coming to Xanitos two years ago, Kimble worked for other national providers and served as an area director by managing environmental services and laundry operations for hospitals and nursing homes in Tennessee, West Virginia, Maryland, Virginia, North Carolina and Pennsylvania. Raised in Scranton, Jim is a 1992 graduate of Penn State University with a bachelor's degree in Health Planning and Administration. TOP ^
January 4, 2012 - ALTOONA REGIONAL HEALTHY LIVING CLUB SETS JANUARY PROGRAMSAltoona Regional Health System's Healthy Living Club has scheduled the following educational programs and screenings for January as a community service. Call 889-2630 or 1-888-313-4665 to make an appointment or to register unless otherwise indicated. The Altoona Hospital Campus is at 620 Howard Ave.; the 7th Avenue Campus is at 2500 7th Ave.; the Education Center is at 2621 8th Ave., and Station Medical Center is at 17th Street and 9th Avenue.A Child Safety Seat Checkup Station will be held at 11 a.m. Friday, Jan. 13, at the Altoona Hospital Campus parking garage, Blue Level. Look for the Safe Kids van. No fee. It is by appointment only. To make an appointment, call Safe Kids Blair County at 889-7802. Find out if your child's safety seat is installed properly. Your child's life may depend on it. Free osteoporosis screenings (heel scans) for men and women will be held by appointment only on Friday, Jan.13, 12:30-3 p.m. at Station Medical Center, Imaging Services department. No fee. Osteoporosis is often called the "silent disease" because bone loss happens without symptoms. Osteoporosis occurs when, over time, bone loss causes bones to become porous, brittle and more likely to break. This painless screening takes just a few minutes and assesses bone density in the heel (a good indicator of bone health and fracture risk) by using ultrasound. Please be prepared to remove shoes and socks. A Seniors for Safe Driving four-hour refresher course for anyone who has taken the eight-hour course will be offered Saturday, Jan. 14, 8:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. in the Rotunda, 6th floor, Outpatient Center, Altoona Hospital Campus. Fee $16. Registration required. Call 1-800-559-4880 or log on to www.sfsd-pa.com. This classroom course covers age-related physical changes, perceptual skills, rules of the road and more. All automobile insurance companies in Pennsylvania provide a premium discount to graduates 55 and older. Most require both spouses insured under the same policy to take the class to receive a discount. A screening for peripheral artery disease (PAD) will be held by appointment only from 8 a.m.-2:30 p.m. on Wednesday, Jan. 11, at the Vascular Institute, 3rd floor, Outpatient Center, Altoona Hospital Campus. No fee. Call 889-2005 or 1-877-855-8152 to schedule your appointment. Peripheral artery disease occurs when plaque clogs leg arteries or vessels and restricts blood flow. Untreated PAD not only can make walking difficult but may increase your risk of heart attack or stroke. Kay Adams, nurse practitioner and manager of Central Pa. Cardiovascular Associates, will check for PAD with an ABI (ankle-brachial index) screen, a painless process in which blood pressure is measured in legs and arms to determine blood flow. Please be prepared to remove shoes and socks. No fee. Learn about the growing epidemic of teen depression and suicide with Rev. David Hammerle on Monday, Jan. 16, from 7-9 p.m. Rev. Hammerle is a member of Altoona Regional's Pastoral Care team, a counselor, and has taught developmental psychology. More teens are on antidepressants today than at any other time in history. Teens with their parents are welcome to attend "Teen Suicide: Who Is Listening?" in the Cafeteria Dining Room A, 4th floor, Tower, Altoona Hospital Campus. The program focuses on the reasons for teen depression and causes for teen suicide with the goal of helping adults and teens become active listeners, which may prevent a tragedy. Donation of $10 is requested to help cover the cost of handouts but is not required. Registration is required. Call 889-2630 or 1-888-313-4665. Offers 0.2 CEUs. Join Amy Nimitz, prevention specialist, as she teaches participants steps to become tobacco-free through "Freedom From Smoking: Become Tobacco Free," a seven-week class series which will be offered Thursdays, Jan. 19 through March 1, from1:30-2:30 p.m. at the 7th Avenue Campus Education Center, Oak Room, 2621 8th Ave. and Thursdays, Jan. 19 through March 1, from 5:30-6:30 p.m. in the Allegheny Room, 6th floor, Outpatient Center, Altoona Hospital Campus. No fee. Registration required. Call 889-2630 or 1-888-313-4665. Seating is limited. This American Lung Association program, offered in conjunction with the Blair County Drug and Alcohol Program Inc., provides help understanding tobacco addiction, creating a quit plan, changing behavior, managing stress and weight, and preventing relapse. Free nicotine replacement patches, gum or lozenges are available. For more information go to www.determinetoquit.com or call the PA Free Quitline at 1-800-QUIT-NOW. A six-week beginners series of Hatha yoga will be offered Thursdays, Jan. 19 through March 1, 5:20-6:30 p.m. (No class Feb. 2.) Allegheny Room, 6th floor, Outpatient Center, Altoona Hospital Campus. Fee $30. Register now as class is limited to 30. Call 889-2630 or 1-888-313-4665. Yoga mat is needed for all classes. Gail Murphy, registered instructor in Hatha yoga, leads this program, which offers mind/body exercise, breath control, stretching and strengthening to promote mental, physical and spiritual well-being. "Resolution Solutions" will be held Friday, Jan. 20, with lunch at 11 a.m. and program 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. at the 7th Avenue Campus Education Center, Trzeciak Conference Suite, 2621 8th Ave. No fee. Registration required. Call 889-2630 or 1-888-313-4665. The new year is the perfect time to make healthy choices, but change is not easy. Whether the resolution is to stop smoking, exercise, lose weight or just take better care of oneself, Dr. Matthew Pontzer, psychiatrist with Behavioral Health Services at Altoona Regional, will offer some keen insight on how to succeed. He will share some reasonable tips to follow to help ensure a positive outcome to resolutions. TOP ^
January 3, 2012 - SOUTHERN ALLEGHENIES ELITE ORTHOPEDICS OPENSSouthern Alleghenies Elite Orthopedics opened Jan. 3.Elite Orthopedics is a unique, full-service orthopedic physician practice serving Blair, Huntingdon, Bedford, Clearfield, Cambria, Centre and Somerset counties from its office at Gateway Centre, 601 Hawthorne Drive, across from the YMCA in Hollidaysburg. Phone 889-3600. Elite Orthopedics is an affiliate of Altoona Regional Health System. Dr. Charles Harvey, formerly of Blair Orthopedics, is now with Elite Orthopedics. Dr. Harvey is a board-certified orthopedic surgeon who specializes in spinal (neck and back) disorders and total hip replacement. Dr. Corey Schutt, a fracture specialist with University Orthopedics Center, will begin with Elite Orthopedics on Feb. 6. Dr. Schutt is a fellowship-trained orthopedic trauma surgeon with unique skills in all aspects of fracture care. Nicole Vranka is the office manager. Vranka received her Bachelor of Science in Healthcare Administration and Psychology from Slippery Rock University in 2004. She will manage the daily operations of the practice. She was previously employed by Virginia Brain and Spine Center Inc. in Winchester, Va. Erin Allison is a physician assistant. Allison received her Masters of Physician Assistant Science degree from Saint Francis University in 2004. She will assist the physicians in surgery as well as care for the patients in the office. She was previously employed by Blair Orthopedics. Cathy Osmolinski is the front desk receptionist. She will greet and check in all patients. She previously worked at Drayer Physical Therapy and Mainline Medical Associates. Carol Myers is the telephone operator. She previously worked at the Blair County Public Defender's office and Mainline Medical Associates. Tammy Wilson is the surgery scheduler. She will schedule all surgical and nonsurgical appointments. She previously worked at Blair Orthopedics. Alexis Shunk is a licensed practical nurse and will be responsible for all nursing duties. She previously worked at University Orthopedics Center. Darla Wherry is the checkout receptionist. She will handle checkout duties for all patients. She was previously employed by AseraCare Hospice. Altoona Regional is a nonprofit community health care provider. Two acute-care hospitals anchor the 433-bed system, which includes a modern outpatient center and more than 20 affiliated health care companies. Altoona Regional offers centers of excellence in cancer, heart, stroke, vascular and emergency care, as well as orthopedics, neurosciences, behavioral health, sleep medicine, wound care, and much more. Altoona Regional's Trauma Center serves more than 20 counties in Central Pennsylvania. The mission of Altoona Regional Health System is for exceptional people to provide exceptional health care.
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January 3, 2011 - BLAIR COUNTY'S FIRST BABY BORN AT ALTOONA REGIONAL HEALTH SYSTEM Avery Jaxon Metz was born to Courtney Metz of Hollidaysburg. He weighed 7 pounds, 5 1/2 ounces, and was 19 inches long. As the first baby born at Altoona Regional, the family receives: Mother: Dozen red roses, $50 gift certificate from Target Father: $50 gift certificate from Target Baby: $100 gift certificate from Babies R Us (Toys R Us) Free newborn picture taken at hospital Two other babies born on Jan. 1 at Altoona Regional received the following: Mother(s): Half-dozen red roses, $25 gift certificate from Target Father(s): $25 gift certificate from Target Baby(ies): $50 gift certificate from Babies R Us (Toys R Us) Free newborn picture taken at hospital Photo: Baby Avery Jaxon Metz, the first Blair County baby of 2012, and his mother Courtney Metz of Hollidaysburg, are welcomed by Julie Vitko, nurse manager, Maternity, and Bob Strawser, executive director of Mission Services. TOP ^
December 27, 2011 - CO-FACILITATOR HONORED FOR 25 YEARS OF SERVICE TO SUPPORT GROUP Reighard became involved in November 1986 when her late husband was diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease. The group was the area's only resource, Reighard said. "Back then there was only about a two-inch paragraph in one medical book about Alzheimer's," she said. "At the support group, we shared what we knew and it was all trial and error, what worked, what didn't work back then." "Jean has been a valuable source of information and support to many members of our community," Ernie Podrasky, consultation and education supervisor, said. "Jean has been the primary reason for the success of this group. She has unequivocal dedication and compassion. We are grateful to her for her time and commitment." After her husband succumbed to the disease in 1995, Reighard continued with the group to share her experience and knowledge with new members. Support group facilitator Les Weiss calls her an "invaluable asset." "She has a very natural and compassionate way of engaging caregivers in need of support," he said. "Jean has always given in a selfless way to others and is always available day and night to those requesting assistance." Photo: Support group participant Mardell Bonasso (left) and facilitator Les Weiss of the Alzheimer's Support Group present a certificate for 25 years of service to co-facilitator Jean Reighard. TOP ^
December 24, 2011 - PATIENT ACCESS NAMES MANAGERS 
The Patient Access department is responsible for collecting all accurate demographic and insurance information on every patient who receives a service, as inpatient or outpatient. Their responsibilities include overseeing the department of approximately 40 Patient Access representatives on the Altoona Hospital Campus, 7th Avenue Campus and Station Medical Center. They will rotate between Station Medical Center and Altoona Hospital Campus and will delegate all work responsibilities to 7th Ave Campus. Cresswell was hired in August 2009 as a Patient Access representative and was promoted last year to a buyer in the Purchasing department in Supply Chain. She is a graduate of St. Francis University with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Spanish and marketing. Nail was hired in September 2010 as a Patient Access representative in the Emergency department. She received her Bachelor of Science in health policy and administration from Penn State University. TOP ^
December 23, 2011 - LAUREN DEUR, M.D., JOINS LEXINGTON RADIOLOGY Dr. Deur is board certified in diagnostic radiology and fellowship-trained in breast imaging. She is also certified to read digital mammography. During her fellowship training in breast imaging, she received the Fellow of the Year Award at New York University Medical Center. Dr. Deur received her doctor of medicine degree from Albert Einstein College of Medicine in the Bronx, New York. She completed a transitional internship at St. Vincent's Medical Center and a radiology residency and fellowship training at New York University. She has two undergraduate degrees: B.A. in biological basis of behavior from the University of Pennsylvania College of Arts and Sciences and a B.S. in economics with a major in health care management from the University of Pennsylvania Wharton School of Business. Dr. Deur is a member of the American College of Radiology. TOP ^
December 21, 2011 - FOUNDATION HOLIDAY EVENT RAISES $46,500The Altoona Regional Health System Foundation for Life's annual Holiday Splendor gala and auction raised $46,500 to help fund the purchase of a digital Doppler ultrasound system and to aid in diabetic education."We sincerely appreciate all of this year's Holiday Splendor attendees, as well as the numerous businesses and individuals who sponsored the event, contributed auction items and made donations," said Ann Benzel, chair, Altoona Regional of the Foundation for Life. "Thanks to their dedication and contributions, everyone was able to enjoy a beautiful evening in support of our nonprofit community health care system." Gold sponsors included Altoona Center for Nursing Case, Altoona OB/GYN Associates, HealthSouth Rehabilitation Hospital of Altoona, Highmark Blue Cross/Blue Shield, Holliday Corvette, S&T Bank and UPMC. In addition to sponsorship support, Holiday Splendor was a big success due to the time and talents of volunteers, committee members and the staff of The Calvin House. For more information on how you can make a gift in support of health care in our community, call 889.6406 or visit www.altoonaregional.org. Altoona Regional Health System Foundation for Life is a private 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization which exists to secure charitable donations to help financially support exceptional health care for the well-being of all Central Pennsylvania residents. Because the Foundation for Life is a qualified charitable organization, donations are tax deductible to the fullest extent allowed by law. TOP ^
December 20, 2011 - NEW ORTHOPEDIC PRACTICE TO OPENSouthern Alleghenies Elite Orthopedics will open and begin seeing patients Tuesday, Jan. 3. Appointments are being made now.Elite Orthopedics is a unique, full-service orthopedic physician practice serving Blair, Huntingdon, Bedford, Clearfield, Cambria, Centre and Somerset counties from its office at Gateway Centre, 601 Hawthorne Drive, across from the YMCA in Hollidaysburg. Phone 889-3600. Dr. Charles Harvey, formerly of Blair Orthopedics, is now with Elite Orthopedics. Dr. Harvey is a board-certified orthopedic surgeon who specializes in spinal (neck and back) disorders and total hip replacement. Dr. Corey Schutt, a fracture specialist currently with University Orthopedics Center, will begin with Elite Orthopedics in early February. Dr. Schutt is a fellowship-trained orthopedic trauma surgeon with unique skills in all aspects of fracture care. "Our practice is fully committed to outstanding patient service," said Nicole Vranka, office manager. "From the caregivers to our office staff, our goal is to provide an exceptional patient experience." Elite Orthopedics is an affiliate of Altoona Regional Health System. Visit Elite Orthopedics at www.eliteorthodocs.com. TOP ^
December 19, 2011 - ALTOONA REGIONAL STAFF & VOLUNTEERS DONATE TO THE FAMILY RESOURCE CENTER OF UNITED WAY'S TOASTY TODDLER CAMPAIGN
Altoona Regional Health System employees, physicians and volunteers from all three campuses donated 89 girl's coats and 68 boy's coats, plus hats, gloves, handmade scarves, boots and blankets to The Family Resource Center of United Way's Toasty Toddler campaign. In addition, $140 in cash was received, according to Dana Shade, Community Education coordinator and coordinator of Altoona Regional's Toasty Toddler donation drive. Standing behind the health system's donations are (from left): first row - volunteers Mary Roberts, Betty Nevel, Carol Graham and Ann Nesbella, and Frances Wilson R.N., BSN, Quality Management; second row - volunteers Barb Sickles and Michelle Burmeister; Vickie Leberfinger, R.N., Outpatient Surgery; Dana Shade, Community Education, and volunteers Denny McArthur and Leona Granville; third row - Bob Strawser, Mission and Customer Service; Michael Walton, Greeter Services, and volunteer Pat Ravina. TOP ^
December 16, 2011 - PENN STATE ALTOONA WOMEN'S VOLLEYBALL ASSISTS BREAST CANCER AWARENESS TOP ^
December 15, 2011 - CANCER CENTER DOCTOR APPOINTED ADJUNCT ASSISTANT PROFESSOR OF RADIATION ONCOLOGY AT UNIVERSITY OF PITTSBURGH As a specialist in the diagnosis and treatment of cancer, Dr. Haley, a radiation oncologist, practices with Jack Schocker, M.D., in the Altoona Regional Center for Cancer Care. TOP ^
December 15, 2011 - MENORAH LIGHTING CEREMONY SET FOR DEC. 21WHAT: Menorah Lighting CeremonyWHEN: 9 a.m. Wednesday, Dec. 21, Altoona Regional Health System, Altoona Hospital Campus, 620 Howard Ave., main lobby AND 10 a.m., Wednesday, Dec. 21, 7th Ave. Campus, 2500 7th Ave. WHO: Rabbi Joshua Wohl, spiritual leader of Agudath Achim Synagogue in Altoona. WHERE: Altoona Hospital Campus, 620 Howard Ave. WHY: Hanukkah is the Jewish festival of lights honoring the preservation of Judaism during ancient times, and the story of how the Menorah lamp miraculously remained lit for eight days. Hanukkah begins Tuesday, Dec. 20, at sundown and ends Wednesday, Dec. 28. Altoona Regional annually lights a Menorah in honor of this Jewish festival. TOP ^
December 6, 2011 - TREE LIGHTING FESTIVITIES FRIDAY, DECEMBER 99 a.m. 7th Avenue Campus, main lobby: Hosted by the Pastoral Care department, join Altoona Regional employees for the Christmas tree blessing with music provided by St. Rose of Lima school children and a scholarship presentation by the Friends of Altoona Regional. School children will then go caroling around the hospital to cheer patients.11 a.m. Altoona Hospital Campus, main lobby area: Hosted by the Pastoral Care department, join Altoona Regional employees for the Christmas tree blessing with music provided by Altoona Central Catholic school children and a scholarship presentation by the Friends of Altoona Regional. School children will then go caroling around the hospital to cheer patients. TOP ^
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