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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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6/18/13 - ALTOONA REGIONAL REPORTS CHARITABLE GIVING AND COMMUNITY SUPPORT FOR FISCAL 2012 6/06/13 - FRIENDS OF ALTOONA REGIONAL TO HOST AN OPEN HOUSE CELEBRATION OF 110 YEARS OF AUXILIARY SERVICE TO HOSPITALS' PATIENTS AND STAFF 6/06/13 - FIRST NEIGHBORHOOD FARMERS' MARKET SET AT ALTOONA REGIONAL, ALTOONA HOSPITAL CAMPUS, THIS FRIDAY, JUNE 7; WILL CONTINUE ALL SUMMER 6/06/13 - ALTOONA REGIONAL VOLUNTEER CELERBATES 50 YEARS OF SERVICE 6/06/13 - ALTOONA REGIONAL HIRES NURSE MANAGER FOR HEALTHFORCE 6/06/13 - MUSHTAQ H. KHALID, M.D., NAMED ALTOONA REGIONAL LABORATORY SERVICES MEDICAL DIRECTOR 5/23/13 - ALTOONA REGIONAL MARKS NATIONAL HOSPITAL WEEK 5/23/13 - ALTOONA REGIONAL PEDIATRICS UNIT RECEIVES DONATION OF BLANKETS 5/23/13 - JEWELRY RAFFLE WINNERS ANNOUNCED AT WOMEN'S NIGHT OUT 2013 5/23/13 - FRIENDS OF ALTOONA REGIONAL GATHER FORMER AUXILIARY MEMBERS FOR CELERBATION 5/23/13 - ALTOONA REGIONAL CT SCANNING DEPARTMENT EARNS ACR ACCREDITATION 5/23/13 - KOKAB KHAN, M.D., JOINS ALTOONA REGIONAL MEDICAL STAFF 5/23/13 - JARRETT J. BENDER, D.O., JOINS LEXINGTON HOSPITALISTS 5/23/13 - WOUND CARE NURSE EARNS ADVANCED DEGREE, PROMOTION 5/23/13 - NURSE RETIRES WITH MORE THAN 40 YEARS OF SERVICE 5/23/13 - NURSE MANAGER RETIRES WITH MORE THAN 30 YEARS OF SERVICE 5/17/13 - Sandralee A. Blosser, MD, FCCM, Serves as the Chancellor of the Board of Regents for the American College of Critical Care Medicine 5/13/13 - JOSEPH L. ANTONOWICZ, M.D. EARNS RECERTIFICATION 5/13/13 - SIMON D. LAMPARD, M.D., FACS, APPOINTED CHAIR OF THE AMERICAN COLLEGE OF SURGEONS PENNSYLVANIA TRAUMA COMMITTEE 5/13/13 - FRIENDS OF ALTOONA REGIONAL HOSTS STATE AUXILIARIES 5/13/13 - ALTOONA REGIONAL TO HOLD MEMORIAL SERVICE 5/09/13 - ALTOONA REGIONAL HIRES FIRST EXECUTIVE CHEF 5/08/13 - LOCAL RESPONDERS ATTEND HOMELAND SECURITY TRAINING 5/08/13 - Altoona Regional Recognized Nationally for Quality Care of Stroke Patients 5/3/13 - NATIONAL SAFE KIDS DAY RECOGNITION: SAFE KIDS BLAIR COUNTY TO PRESENT A CONVERTIBLE CHILD SEAT TO EACH BLAIR COUNTY BABY BORN MAY 4 4/25/13 - CANCELED MAY 7 - Altoona Regional Health System Perinatal Loss Support Group 4/25/13 - APRIL IS NATIONAL DONATE LIFE MONTH 4/25/13 - ALTOONA REGIONAL DONATES SUPPLIES FOR MISSION TRIP 4/25/13 - GROUP DONATES EASTER BASKETS TO ALTOONA REGIONAL PEDIATRICS UNIT 4/22/13 - ALTOONA REGIONAL FOUNDATION FOR LIFE GOLF CLASSIC IS JUNE 24 4/19/13 - PHYSICIAN ASSISTANT TO JOIN ELITE ORTHOPEDICS 4/17/13 - MAY IS MENTAL HEALTH MONTH: BULLYING/PEER ABUSE: START THE HEALING 4/15/13 - ALTOONA REGIONAL HEALTH SYSTEM TO MARK EARTH DAY 4/14/13 - New Video Conferencing Equipment Improves Access, Communication Between Deaf Community and Medical Providers: COMMUNITY INVITED TO ATTEND DEMONSTRATION; ASL Interpreters Available 4/10/13 - NUTRITION SERVICES ASSISTANT RETIRED WITH 26 YEARS OF SERVICE 4/10/13 - MATTHEW E. NEWLIN, M.D., EARNS RECERTIFICATION 4/10/13 - BONSELL PROMOTED TO ALTOON REGIONAL PAYROLL MANAGER 4/04/13 - COMMUNITY INVITED TO ATTEND DEMONSTRATION OF NEW VIDEO CONFERENCING EQUIPMENT WITH AMERICAN SIGN LANGUAGE INTERPRETERS 4/02/13 - ALTOONA REGIONAL HEALTHY LIVING CLUB SETS APRIL PROGRAMS 4/02/13 - ALTOONA REGIONAL OFFERS SUPORT GROUPS/CLINICS IN APRIL 3/28/13 - ENVIRONMENTAL SERVICES ASSISTANT RETIRES WITH 42 YEARS OF SERVICE 3/26/13 - NEW CHAPEL PROJECT GAINS SUPPORT FROM SYSTEM AUXILIARY 3/19/13 - ALTOONA REGIONAL'S FOUNDATION FOR LIFE RECEIVES DONATION 3/06/13 - BREASTFEEDING CLASS CANCELED FOR TONIGHT 3/05/13 - HOSPITAL LIFTS VISITING RESTRICTIONS 2/28/13 - DIANE HARRIS NAMED INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY DIRECTOR 2/28/13 - COMMISSION ON CANCER ACCREDITS ALTOONA REGIONAL'S PROGRAM 2/28/13 - GROUP DONATES QUILTS FOR ALTOONA REGIONAL CANCER PATIENTS 2/26/13 - ALTOONA REGIONAL MOVES FORWARD WITH UPMC 2/25/13 - KAREE SAYLOR PROMOTED TO GREETER SERVICES COORDINATOR AT STATION MEDICAL CENTER 2/25/13 - NUTRITION SERVICES ASSISTANT KATHY SOLLENBERGER RETIRES WITH 43½ YEARS OF SERVICE 2/11/13 - DAVID M. JUNKIN JR., M.D., JOINS SOUTHERN ALLEGHENIES ELITE ORTHOPEDICS 2/7/13 - AEROPOSTALE DONATES TEDDY BEARS FOR MATERNITY DEPARTMENT TO GIVE TO AREA PARENTS OF NEWBORNS 2/5/13 - TICKETS ON SALE: ALTOONA REGIONAL'S WOMEN'S NIGHT OUT APRIL 25 1/30/13 - ALTOONA REGIONAL PARTICIPATES IN WEAR RED DAYS 1/24/13 - ALTOONA REGIONAL HEALTHY LIVING CLUB CANCELS PROGRAM TONIGHT 1/18/13 - ALTOONA REGIONAL HEALTH SYSTEM NURSE MANAGER JANET GROVE RETIRES WITH 41 YEARS OF SERVICE 1/17/13 - DON BECKSTEAD, M.D., WITH ALTOONA FAMILY PHYSICIANS RESIDENCY AT ALTOONA REGIONAL HEALTH SYSTEM CELEBRATES NATIONAL MEMBERSHIP 1/16/13 - JACK F. ROCCO, M.D., OF SOUTHERN ALLEGHENIES ELITE ORTHOPEDICS NAMED TO SHRINERS HOSPITAL BOARD, PHILADELPHIA 1/15/13 - HOSPITAL MODIFIES VISITING POLICY DUE TO INFLUENZA 1/4/13 - ALTOONA REGIONAL HEALTHY LIVING CLUB SETS JANUARY PROGRAMS 1/1/13 - FIRST BLAIR COUNTY BABY OF NEW YEAR BORN AT ALTOONA REGIONAL 12/28/12 - ALTOONA REGIONAL OFFERS SUPPORT GROUPS/CLINICS IN JANUARY 12/27/12 - FIRST BABY OF NEW YEAR 12/27/12 - ALTOONA REGIONAL ISSUES REMINDER ON TOBACCO-FREE POLICY 12/21/12 - ALTOONA REGIONAL EMPLOYEES MAKE LARGE CONTRIBUTION TO TOASTY TODDLERS PROGRAM 12/20/12 - FOUNDATION HOLIDAY EVENT RAISES MORE THAN $53,000 12/19/12 - ALTOONA REGIONAL LABORATORY SECRETARY RETIRES WITH 35 1/2 YEARS OF SERVICE June 18, 2013 - ALTOONA REGIONAL REPORTS CHARITABLE GIVING AND COMMUNITY SUPPORT FOR FISCAL 2012In fiscal 2012, Altoona Regional Health System provided $49 million in charitable giving and community support. The fiscal year covers the period from July 1, 2011, to June 30, 2012. "As a nonprofit health care organization dedicated to providing tangible community benefit," said Jerry Murray, Altoona Regional president and CEO, "our goals are to increase health care access, reduce disparities in the local health care system and champion the causes of those who face obstacles in their daily lives." To qualify as community benefit, programs and services must meet at least one of the following universally recognized criteria:
"Altoona Regional exists solely for the well-being of the communities and people we serve," Murray said. "Unlike for-profit health care providers, all funds left after expenses are used to improve and/or expand local health care services." TOP ^
June 6, 2013 - FRIENDS OF ALTOONA REGIONAL TO HOST AN OPEN HOUSE CELEBRATION OF 110 YEARS OF AUXILIARY SERVICE TO HOSPITALS' PATIENTS AND STAFFHost: Friends of Altoona Regional Time/date: 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Monday, June 10 Where: Atrium, Altoona Hospital Campus Why attend: Friends of Altoona Regional invites you to understand its past, but most importantly, join them in making a better, brighter future for patients and staff. Enjoy refreshments, memories and memorabilia and talk to Friends of Altoona Regional members about the satisfaction they receive in knowing they contribute to the future health of their grandchildren's community. Members will answer your questions about their positive work and how they have made many lasting friendships in the process (the proof is in the pictures on display). Learn how you can be part of the solution and be the change you want to see in the future of local health care. All are welcome to join Friends! Membership forms will be available. Dues are $5 per year or $50 for a lifetime membership. TOP ^
June 6, 2013 - FIRST NEIGHBORHOOD FARMERS' MARKET SET AT ALTOONA REGIONAL, ALTOONA HOSPITAL CAMPUS, THIS FRIDAY, JUNE 7; WILL CONTINUE ALL SUMMERThe first-ever community farmers' market will take place on the lawn area in front of Altoona Regional Health System, Altoona Hospital Campus, 620 Howard Ave., between 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Friday, June 7. Free-range eggs, locally grown vegetables, fresh fruit, certified organic herbs, goat's milk soap, and more will be offered for sale. Participating in the farmers' market are: CR Mountain Ranch — free range eggs Greenbriar Farm — vegetables Smith Organic Farm — organic vegetables (starting in July) Cherry Hill Farm — goat's milk soap and potted herbs Sweet Annie's Garden — cut flowers and herbs Bake Shop Bakes — various cakes/pies Oak Spring Winery — wines Supporting a farmers' market is an expansion of the Nutrition Services department's daily effort: Educate and encourage everyone to eat healthier at every meal. "A farmers' market is a great resource that shows how eating healthy is right at our fingertips," said executive chef Keith Auker. "We eat as much with our eyes as we do with our taste buds. Therefore, the presentation, colors and textures of the foods we serve, influence our appetite. As you walk around the farmers' market enjoy the wonderful smells of the fresh produce and the opportunity to purchase fresh locally grown foods." Debbie Finochio, RD, LDN, director of Nutrition Services, explains that the market supports the dietitians' teachings to patients. "The fresh fruits and vegetables available at the farmers' market illustrate the positive messages we teach patients as we raise awareness of how diet choices impact overall health," she said. "Foods that are fresh are high in nutritional value and in taste - and that is a winning health combination." "This is very much a collaborative effort between the Blair Conservation District, Altoona Regional, Penn State Altoona and area farmers," said Beth Futrick of the Agricultural Ombudsman Program for the Blair Conservation District. The concept to hold a farmers' market at one of Altoona Regional's campuses was initially presented two years ago at its Go Green Committee. The committee is comprised of employees, managers and administrators from all areas of the hospital system. Together, they join with administration's efforts to motivate and raise employee participation in recycling efforts, make health system processes greener and set a positive green example by reducing the hospital's "footprint" in the municipal landfill. "We are very excited to see the local growers come here and bring their locally grown products to inner-city Altoona. Many times, people have difficulty locating the best quality, most accessible and affordable places to buy produce," said Gary Zuckerman, Go Green chair and vice president of Supply Chain for Altoona Regional. TOP ^
June 6, 2013 - ALTOONA REGIONAL VOLUNTEER CELERBATES 50 YEARS OF SERVICE
Photo: Betty Kimmel (left) celebrated 50 years as a volunteer with Altoona Regional Health System on May 14. Kimmel, here with phlebotomist Becky Frye, registers patients at the Outpatient Lab desk at Station Medical Center two days a week. The staff decorated Kimmel's desk in honor of her milestone. Friends of Altoona Regional honored Kimmel for her service and presented her with a certificate and "bouquet" of cupcakes at the general meeting on May 14. TOP ^
June 6, 2013 - ALTOONA REGIONAL HIRES NURSE MANAGER FOR HEALTHFORCE
McCullough will promote health and safety to all employees by facilitating an employee health program. The program includes disease detection, prevention and treatment; following up on employee illnesses and injuries; conducting employee health screenings, and promoting a safe work environment. She previously worked as the director of Nursing at Elmcroft, State College. Before that, she was a staff development instructor at Altoona Center for Nursing Care. McCullough, a native of State College, graduated from Penn State University with her nursing degrees and has lived in Altoona for 26 years. TOP ^
June 6, 2013 - MUSHTAQ H. KHALID, M.D., NAMED ALTOONA REGIONAL LABORATORY SERVICES MEDICAL DIRECTOR
Dr. Khalid joined the medical staff in 2001. He is a diplomate, board certified in Pathology/Laboratory Services by American Board of Pathology. He attended seven years of medical school education and obtained a Bachelor of Medicine and a Bachelor of Surgery degree from Rawalpindi Medical College, Pakistan. He worked as a physician in surgical, medical emergency and outpatient departments of various hospitals affiliated with Rawalpindi Medical College until 1985. In 1986, he came to the U.S. and worked as research assistant and nursing staff technologist at The Christ Hospital in Cincinnati. In 1992, he entered his residency program in Anatomic and Clinical Pathology at Western Reserve Care System in Youngstown, Ohio. He also has subspecialty fellowship training within several areas of Pathology. TOP ^
May 23, 2013 - ALTOONA REGIONAL MARKS NATIONAL HOSPITAL WEEK
Altoona Regional celebrated National Hospital Week May 5-11, honoring employees, volunteers, auxilians and physicians. "During this week, the health system acknowledges the immeasurable value of our coworkers and recognizes that their dedication is an essential part of our success," said Jerry Murray, president and CEO. Full-page advertisements were placed in the Altoona Mirror featuring employees reaching service milestones and honoring all active medical staff members. Those same employees were honored at a breakfast May 6 and luncheons May 7 and 8 in the Cafeteria. More than 400 employees marking 5 to 45 years of service were recognized with certificates and gifts. Photo 1: President/CEO Jerry Murray with employees who were honored for their years of service at a luncheon May 8 (from left): Sharon Born, Peri-Anesthesia, 40 years; Lucy Gehret, Radiology, 45 years, and Sandra Loomis, MRI; Dianne Anderson, Peri-Anesthesia, and Pamela Robison, Maternity/Nursery, who retired May 1 — all 40 years. Photo 2: President/CEO Jerry Murray (third from right) with employees who celebrated 40 years of service at a luncheon May 7 (from left): Deborah Walters, Cardiac Cath Lab; Elizabeth Lee, Case Management; Cloyd Beers, Patient Financial Services; Annamae Guinivan, Health Information Management; Greg Donnelly, retired from Pharmacy, and Cynthia Sharbaugh, Wound Care-Ostomy. Other honorees were Ella Glass, T10, who celebrated 45 years of service, and Cynthia Brode, Anesthesiology; Karen Brooks, Information Services, and Kathleen Shylo, Nutrition Services, who marked 40 years. TOP ^
May 23, 2013 - ALTOONA REGIONAL PEDIATRICS UNIT RECEIVES DONATION OF BLANKETS
Photo: Comfort Covers, an organization of women who volunteer to make blankets for hospital patients, recently donated blankets to the Altoona Regional Pediatrics unit. At the presentation at Altoona Regional are (clockwise from front): Jakeob Lauver, patient; Shirley Hoyne, coordinator, Foundation for Life; Tracey Kennedy, administrator, Comfort Covers, and Ashley Holliday, R.N., Pediatrics. TOP ^
May 23, 2013 - JEWELRY RAFFLE WINNERS ANNOUNCED AT WOMEN'S NIGHT OUT 2013
Photo: Winners of the jewelry raffle at Altoona Regional's annual Women's Night Out at The Casino on April 25 were (from left): seated - Beverly Emig, Barbara Mayernick and Sherry Turchetta; standing - Debbie Hawksworth, Sheri Simpson, Karen Moughemer and Marjorie Kan. TOP ^
May 23, 2013 - FRIENDS OF ALTOONA REGIONAL GATHER FORMER AUXILIARY MEMBERS FOR CELERBATION
A common desire to help others, the forging of friendships, and reflections on the many times all auxiliaries stepped in to help patients were highlighted. Photo: Shirley Hoyne (second from left, second row), coordinator of Altoona Regional's Foundation for Life, is the only living past president from Mercy Hospital, Mercy Regional Health System and Bon Secours-Holy Family. She served the Bon Secours-Holy Family Auxiliary from 1994 until the merger with Altoona Hospital in 2004. Other presidents represent divisions of Altoona Hospital's auxiliaries (from left): first row - Louise Magee, Women's Auxiliary; Peggy Cawthern, Junior Auxiliary and Friends president through 2014; Dorie Burtnette, Junior Auxiliary; Alice Kotzatoski, Junior Auxiliary and current Friends vice president; second row - John "Jack" Freas, Altoona Hospital Auxiliary; Shirley Hoyne; Vicki Baughman, Junior Auxiliary and now Gift Shop manager for Friends, and Louise Berry, Women's Auxiliary, who serves on the Friends Board of Directors as legislative chair. TOP ^
May 23, 2013 - ALTOONA REGIONAL CT SCANNING DEPARTMENT EARNS ACR ACCREDITATIONAltoona Regional has been awarded three-year terms of accreditation in CT Scanning as a result of a recent review by the American College of Radiology (ACR). The ACR gold seal of accreditation represents the highest level of image quality and patient safety. It is awarded only to facilities meeting ACR Practice Guidelines and Technical Standards after a peer review evaluation by board-certified physicians and medical physicists who are experts in the field. Image quality, personnel qualifications, adequacy of facility equipment, quality control procedures, and quality assurance programs are assessed. The findings are reported to the ACR Committee on Accreditation, which subsequently provides the practice with a comprehensive report they can use for continuous practice improvement. CT scans use combined X-ray and computer technology to image bones, lungs and other organs in three dimensions. The camera of the CT spirals around the patient's body and can provide multiple super-thin images. CT uses radiation to generate images with faster scanning (in most cases) than MRI. Some CT scans require an injection of a special iodine contrast before the scan. This contrast is absorbed by abnormal tissue and is detected by the CT scanner. "We are very proud to have achieved this distinction," said Mike Corso, administrative director of Imaging Services and Cardiology. "There are many people who spend countless hours through the accreditation process, which ensures that Altoona Regional is on the forefront of patient safety and doing things the correct way." TOP ^
May 23, 2013 - KOKAB KHAN, M.D., JOINS ALTOONA REGIONAL MEDICAL STAFF
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May 23, 2013 - JARRETT J. BENDER, D.O., JOINS LEXINGTON HOSPITALISTS
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May 23, 2013 - WOUND CARE NURSE EARNS ADVANCED DEGREE, PROMOTION
Bickers received his master's degree in Nursing (CRNP) at University of Pittsburgh, specializing in adult acute care. He became a certified wound, ostomy and continence nurse and obtained his master's degree in wound, ostomy and continence (CWOCN) at LaSalle University in Philadelphia. He has a bachelor's degree in Nursing from Mount Aloysius. Bickers also collaborates with Neil Kaneshiki, M.D., Blair Surgical Associates, in his surgical practice. Bickers started 14 years ago as a staff nurse in the wound clinic at Bon Secours Holy Family Hospital before being promoted to clinical nurse manager at Altoona Hospital Campus. He lives in Hollidaysburg. TOP ^
May 23, 2013 - NURSE RETIRES WITH MORE THAN 40 YEARS OF SERVICE
After graduation as an LPN from Altoona Area Vo-Tech, Walters was hired by Altoona Hospital in 1972 and worked for 14 years on various surgical and orthopedic floors. She graduated as a registered nurse from the Altoona Hospital School of Nursing in 1986 and was a staff nurse in the Cardiac Critical Care Unit for three years. In 1990, Walters transferred to Utilization Review and in 1993 she transferred to the Cath Lab. TOP ^
May 23, 2013 - NURSE MANAGER RETIRES WITH MORE THAN 30 YEARS OF SERVICE
Lenhart was hired in 1980 as an LPN in Medical Oncology at Mercy Hospital. She worked in Maternity for eight years, during which time she became a registered nurse. She joined HealthForce in 1993 and was promoted to her current position, nurse manager of occupational health, in 2002. TOP ^
May 17, 2013 - Sandralee A. Blosser, MD, FCCM, Serves as the Chancellor of the Board of Regents for the American College of Critical Care Medicine
As leader of the ACCCM, the Chancellor presides over all meetings of the College and casts a deciding vote when necessary. The College is in charge of reviewing all guidelines and for accepting new fellows into the college through the Fellows of Critical Care Medicine Recognition Program. The Chancellor appoints the College's committee members and serves on the SCCM's Council as an ex officio member. In addition to her responsibilities here, Dr. Blosser is chief of Intensivist Development at Pittsburgh Critical Care Associates Inc. and an associate professor of Medicine, Anesthesiology and Surgery at Penn State Hershey Medical Center. The SCCM is the largest multi-professional organization dedicated to ensuring excellence and consistency in the practice of critical care. With nearly 16,000 members in more than 100 countries, SCCM is the only organization that represents all professional components of the critical care team. TOP ^
May 13, 2013 - JOSEPH L. ANTONOWICZ, M.D. EARNS RECERTIFICATION
Dr. Antonowicz serves as a psychiatrist and medical director of Altoona Regional's Behavioral Health Service, where he diagnoses and treats patients who suffer from all forms of addiction and mental illness in both the inpatient and outpatient settings. He has been board certified - highest level of practice recognition given to physicians in Addiction Medicine - since 2002. Dr. Antonowicz is also board certified by the American Board of Psychiatry & Neurology in Psychiatry and Psychiatry with added qualification in Geriatrics. Certification through The American Board of Addiction Medicine (ABAM) provides assurance to the American public that Addiction Medicine physicians have the knowledge and skills to prevent, recognize and treat addiction. ABAM-certified physicians have demonstrated to their peers and to the public that they have the clinical judgment, skills and attitudes essential for the delivery of excellent patient care. TOP ^
May 13, 2013 - SIMON D. LAMPARD, M.D., FACS, APPOINTED CHAIR OF THE AMERICAN COLLEGE OF SURGEONS PENNSYLVANIA TRAUMA COMMITTEE
Raul Coimbra, M.D., Ph.D., FACS, chair, ACS Regional Committees on Trauma, recommended Dr. Lampard. "Dr. Lampard's selection for this position is an acknowledgment of his leadership abilities and his commitment to the care of the injured patient," said Dr. Coimbra. "In accepting the chair, he has taken on responsibilities that, at times, entail a considerable time commitment. But he has also become part of a group of dynamic and fascinating individuals who get things done, and enjoy it." The mission of the American College of Surgeons Committee on Trauma is to develop and implement meaningful programs for trauma care in local, regional, national and international arenas. These programs must include education, professional development, standards of care and assessment of outcomes. TOP ^
May 13, 2013 - FRIENDS OF ALTOONA REGIONAL HOSTS STATE AUXILIARIES
Forty members from eight of the 21-member auxiliaries attended, said Friends member Louise Berry, who has represented Altoona auxiliary members many years at regional and state levels of PAHA. Two additional Friends officers participating regionally are Alice Kotzatoski, Central Region's president-elect, and Vicki Baughman, gift shop and newsletter chair. Photo: Central Region Executive Board officers attending the spring conference at Altoona Regional were (from left): seated - Louanna Sturm, treasurer; Cherie LeBard, president; Doris Lehman, recording secretary; standing - Vicki Baughman, gift shop and newsletter chair; Alice Kotzatoski, president-elect; Nancy Younker, health promotions; Louise Berry, legislative chair, and Laura Rager-Davis, vice president. TOP ^
May 13, 2013 - ALTOONA REGIONAL TO HOLD MEMORIAL SERVICEAltoona Regional's Palliative Care Service and Pastoral Care department are holding a memorial service in memory of deceased patients this Thursday, May 16, at 7 p.m. First Church of Christ, 113 Good Shepherd Road, Altoona (Juniata Gap & Good Shepherd roads). News media representatives are welcome to attend and cover the service. When you arrive, please ask for Tony Conrad, director of Pastoral Care. TOP ^
May 9, 2013 - ALTOONA REGIONAL HIRES FIRST EXECUTIVE CHEF
“I have a lot of new, fresh ideas planned,” he said. “My specialty is Italian but I am diverse in all types of cuisines. Here, my emphasis will be on providing fresh, healthy ingredients presented deliciously and in various ways so healthy eating is pleasurable to our customers.” A distinguished and now-retired Navy chef, Auker comes here from Arandale Lounge and Ballroom at the Bedford Elks Country Club, where he was executive chef and manager. After serving in the Navy for 26 years, Auker, a 1985 graduate of Bedford High School, retired from his post as executive chef/household manager for the superintendent of the U.S. Naval Academy in Annapolis, Md. He was responsible for all formal entertaining of high level government officials and distinguished visitors. Auker spent his Navy career as a culinary specialist and became certified as an executive chef from the American Culinary Federation; as a household manager by the Starkey International Institute, and as wine cellar manager by the International Wine Guild. He won numerous awards, including the Meritorious Service Medal, one of the highest awards a sailor can receive. He received the honor for his service to the superintendent of the Naval Academy at Annapolis from 2004-11. TOP ^
May 8, 2013 - LOCAL RESPONDERS ATTEND HOMELAND SECURITY TRAINING
The CDP is operated by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security's Federal Emergency Management Agency and is the only federally chartered Weapons of Mass Destruction (WMD) training facility in the nation. One hundred forty-three professionals from hospitals, emergency medical services (EMS) and public health entities attended the training April 15-19. Participants attended one of three classes: “Healthcare Leadership for Mass Casualty Incidents,” “Hospital Emergency Response Training” and “Emergency Medical Operations.” All attendees came together at the end of the week for an integrated capstone event (ICE) training exercise, which specifically involved multiple small domestic terrorist events in a fictional city, with over 200 people needing decontamination, triage and treatment. “We all came back with a better understanding of what we need to focus on to improve our responses back at our jobs in Pennsylvania,” said Sue Wertz, safety officer for Altoona Regional Health System. The CDP develops and delivers advanced training for emergency response providers, emergency managers and other government officials from state, local and tribal governments. The CDP offers more than 50 training courses focusing on incident management, mass casualty response and emergency response to a catastrophic natural disaster or terrorist act. Training at the CDP campus is federally funded at no cost to state, local and tribal emergency response professionals or their agencies. Resident training at the CDP includes health care and public health courses at the Noble Training Facility, the nation's only hospital dedicated to training health care professionals in disaster preparedness and response. A number of resident training courses culminate at the CDP's Chemical, Ordnance, Biological and Radiological Training Facility (COBRA). The COBRA is the nation's only facility featuring civilian training exercises in a true toxic environment, using chemical agents. The advanced, hands-on training enables responders to effectively prevent, respond to and recover from real-world incidents involving acts of terrorism and other hazardous materials. Responders participating in CDP training gain critical skills and confidence to respond effectively to local incidents or potential WMD events. Information about CDP training programs can be found at cdp.dhs.gov. Visit the "News & Media" tab at the top of the site to download images, share CDP training articles and find out what others are saying about CDP training. For more information about the CDP, contact the CDP External Affairs Office at (256) 847-2212/2316 or e-mail pao@cdpemail.dhs.gov. Photo: Attendees at homeland security training offered by the Center for Domestic Preparedness in Alabama included (from left): Rich Kelley, emergency medical services clinical supervisor at Mount Nittany Medical Center; Rick Hettinger, education director, Tyrone Hospital; Sharon Nilson, chief of Snow Shoe EMS; Sue Wertz, safety officer, Altoona Regional Health System; Beth Brown, infection preventionist, J.C. Blair Memorial Hospital; Dr. Shaun Sheehan, emergency physician, Altoona Regional; Carl Moen, acting director, Southern Alleghenies EMS Council; Jim Urban, program specialist, Seven Mountains EMS Council, and Tim Nilson, director, Seven Mountains EMS Council. TOP ^
May 8, 2013 - Altoona Regional Recognized Nationally for quality care of stroke patients
The award recognizes Altoona Regional’s commitment and success in implementing a higher standard of care by ensuring that stroke patients receive treatment according to nationally accepted guidelines. Get With The Guidelines®–Stroke helps Altoona Regional’s staff develop and implement acute and secondary prevention guideline processes to improve the quality of care for stroke patients, and may reduce disability and save lives. “Altoona Regional is dedicated to making our care for stroke patients among the best in the country. The Get With The Guidelines®–Stroke program helps us accomplish this goal,” said Janet Ashurst, Neuroscience/Stroke clinical coordinator. “This recognition demonstrates that we are on the right track, and we’re very proud of our team.” Following Get With The Guidelines-Stroke treatment guidelines, patients are started on aggressive risk-reduction therapies including the use of medications such as tPA, antithrombotics and anticoagulation therapy, along with cholesterol reducing drugs and smoking cessation counseling. These are all aimed at reducing death and disability and improving the lives of stroke patients. Hospitals must adhere to these measures at a set level for a designated period to be eligible for the achievement awards. Photo: Janet Ashurst (center) accepts the Get With The Guidelines®–Stroke Gold Plus Quality Achievement Award from Steve Dentel of the American Heart Association. Other members of the stroke team attending are (from left): Mike Corso, administrative director, Radiology/Cardiology/Stroke/Vascular; Debbie Fornwalt-Beiswenger, administrative assistant; neurologist Joseph Clark, M.D., Blair Medical Associates Neurology; Christine Dively, R.N., Blair Medical Associates, and Greg Madison, RRT, manager, Neuroscience/Stroke program. TOP ^
May 3, 2013 - NATIONAL SAFE KIDS DAY RECOGNITION: SAFE KIDS BLAIR COUNTY TO PRESENT A CONVERTIBLE CHILD SEAT TO EACH BLAIR COUNTY BABY BORN MAY 4Safe Kids Blair County will present a new convertible child seat to each baby born in Blair County on Saturday, May 4. This is in recognition of National Safe Kids Day 2013! Safe Kids Blair County encourages parents and caregivers to keep their children rear facing as long as the child is within the recommended height and weight limits of their child seat. Forward facing children ages 12-23 months are FIVE times as likely to be injured when compared to rear facing children of the same age, said Sherry Turchetta, coordinator of Safe Kids Blair County and community educator at Altoona Regional Health System. About Safe Kids Blair County Altoona Regional Health System has been the lead agency for Safe Kids Blair County since 1992 and offers financial accountability, office space, support and a coordinator position. Safe Kids is a national effort to educate parents on the increased risk of unintentional injuries to children. For more information, go to: www.altoonaregional.org/about.htm TOP ^
April 25, 2013 - CANCELED MAY 7 Altoona Regional Health System Perinatal Loss Support GroupAltoona Regional Health System's Perinatal Loss Support Group, a support group to help parents who have experienced a pregnancy loss, stillbirth or newborn death, has been canceled for May 7. The support resumes its regular schedule of meetings, held the first Tuesday of each month on June 4. The 90-minute meeting begins at 7 p.m. and is held at the Blair Medical Center, 501 Howard Ave., Building F, Suite 5, Laurel Conf. Room. For more information, call 889-2141. TOP ^
April 25, 2013 - APRIL IS NATIONAL DONATE LIFE MONTHMore than 117,000 people across the country are awaiting an organ transplant, and at least 18 will die without receiving one. The Center for Organ Recovery & Education (CORE) and Altoona Regional Health System are joining the organ donation community once again in April by commemorating National Donate Life Month. Throughout the month, CORE and Altoona Regional are encouraging people to register to become organ, tissue and cornea donors. Each person who signs up can help up to 50 people through organ, tissue and cornea donation. Some important additional facts about organ, tissue and cornea donation:
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April 25, 2013 - ALTOONA REGIONAL DONATES SUPPLIES FOR MISSION TRIP
Following their arrival at the airport, the team members traveled 12 hours into the country's interior to work in a remote village. There, they treated small and large animals — dogs, cats, sheep, goats, pigs, horses and cattle — and even performed surgeries. Through the help of Altoona Regional employees Dave Gracey (Engineering) and Justin Kobuck (Operating Room), the health care system was able to support the group's mission by donating recently outdated medical supplies, such as dressings, sponges and suture materials, to take along. "On behalf of the entire team, I would like to thank Altoona Regional for providing us with those needed materials," said Dr. Stachmus. "It was a great experience and a blessing for us and the people and animals we served." Photo: With the help of two volunteers, Dr. Stachmus (center) performs a spay/hysterectomy on a dog from the village. TOP ^
April 25, 2013 - GROUP DONATES EASTER BASKETS TO ALTOONA REGIONAL PEDIATRICS UNIT
Lisa Shawley, Warnaco employee, explained that Eli's Easter began with a little boy named Elias Garrett, who was born May 17, 2005, and diagnosed in September 2007 with T-cell non-Hodgkin's lymphoma. In 2008, Shawley and another Warnaco employee, Melony Lewis, came up with the idea to have fellow employees purchase items to create Easter baskets for Eli to take to Pittsburgh to give to his friends and fellow patients. In 2009, Shawley and Lewis decided to continue Eli's Easter, and baskets were sent, once again, to Pittsburgh. Eli passed away on May 7, 2009, just shy of his 4th birthday. Warnaco employees have continued the tradition every year since 2008. Eli's father, Martin Garrett, and great-aunt, Linda Henderhan, deliver baskets every year to Pittsburgh. Shawley and Lewis decided this year to include Altoona Regional's Pediatrics unit in Eli's Easter for children here to enjoy the baskets as well. Shawley said, "We enjoy it more than words can say. We hope the kids liked the items we sent and hope everyone had an awesome Easter. Eli was a sweet little guy with a heart of gold." Because Warnaco is closing, next year Garrett plans to take over Eli's Easter on his own. Garrett said, "I hope to make Eli's Easter bigger than it's ever been in 2014." For more information or to donate to Eli's Easter in 2014, please contact Garrett at 814.215.8536. 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. Photo: At the Easter basket presentation are (from left): Wendy Hardie, R.N., 5E/5F; Melony Lewis, Warnaco employee; Shirley Hoyne, Foundation for Life, and Danielle Peterman, R.N., 5E/5F. TOP ^
April 22, 2013 - ALTOONA REGIONAL FOUNDATION FOR LIFE GOLF CLASSIC IS JUNE 24The fourth annual Altoona Regional Health System Foundation for Life Golf Classic is set for Monday, June 24, at Scotch Valley Country Club, Hollidaysburg. Proceeds benefit the Foundation for Life's area of greatest need. The four-person scramble is presented by tournament sponsors UPMC and UPMC Health Plan. The morning shotgun start will begin promptly at 8 a.m. If an afternoon shotgun is needed, it will begin at 1:30 p.m. Prizes include:
In addition, a golf ball drop event is scheduled for 1 p.m. that day. Tickets are $20 per ball. First prize, for the ball that lands closet to the pin, is $500. There are also second and third prizes of $250 and $100 respectively. For more information on participating, sponsorships or purchasing chances for the ball drop, please contact Shirley Hoyne, event coordinator, at 814.889.7673. Registration deadline is June 18. 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 ^
April 19, 2013 - PHYSICIAN ASSISTANT TO JOIN ELITE ORTHOPEDICS
Weikert graduated from Juniata College with a bachelor's in biology, and received his bachelor's in physician assistant medicine from the Pennsylvania College of Technology, Williamsport. He was certified by the National Commission on Certification of Physician Assistants in 2008. Since 2009, Weikert has worked at Altoona Regional in its Trauma Service department. TOP ^
April 17, 2013 - MAY IS MENTAL HEALTH MONTH: BULLYING/PEER ABUSE: START THE HEALING
The Blair County May Is Mental Health Month Committee presents "Bullying/Peer Abuse: Start the Healing," a free program addressing bullying issues, including how to heal and move forward, Wednesday, May 8, at the Ramada, Altoona. Doors open at 5:30 p.m. and for an hour attendees can visit representatives from different agencies to learn what help and services are available locally on bullying and other mental health issues. Nationally, May is designated as Mental Health Month to decrease the stigma society attaches to mental illnesses. Locally for 17 years, a group of local mental health service organizations have presented programs designed to increase awareness, knowledge and understanding of mental health-related subjects. This year, May is Mental Health Month's featured speaker is Elizabeth Bennett, M.Ed., is a national pioneer in advocacy to stop bullying among children and adults. She is an author, consultant, and survivor of childhood bullying. Bennett, of Spartanburg, S.C., explains why understanding the roles of victim, bully and bystander in bullying situations is crucial to ending the abuse cycle. She promotes the term "peer abuse" in place of "bullying" because peer abuse leaves invisible scars on victims. As a survivor, her message is one of hope, because help and healing are possible through better understanding. Her message will appeal to parents, teachers, school administrators, middle and high school students, according to May is Mental Health Month Committee chairman Mark Frederick. "Bullying continues to escalate not only nationally, but locally as well," he said. "Whether your child is a victim, a bully, or witnesses it happening to a classmate, all are impacted. Bullying is a huge distraction from learning and that is the reason our children are in school. Bullying today occurs in many more settings and has far-reaching consequences. Teens have committed suicide after bullying-related videos of them were placed on the internet. It is no longer simply a bully taking the victim's lunch money. Today, bullying is taking lives." Bennett's message identifies the signs of when a child may be being bullied. Too often, a victim fails to seek help out of shame and fear of retaliation, Ms. Bennett said. "There is a difference between 'ratting someone out' and reporting what should be considered a crime. Educating our children and taking proper action as adults will save lives," she said. "If you are being abused by your peers or you see it occurring, tell someone. Peer abuse needs to be handled by caring, compassionate and educated adults. If adults don't act, we allow it to continue and grow worse." For information on professional Continuing Education Credits, call 889.2706. Sponsors Altoona Regional Health System The Arc of Blair County Blair County MH/ID/EI Program Blair Family Solutions Home Nursing Agency National Alliance on Mental Illness of Blair County (NAMI) Penn State Altoona Health & Wellness Center Primary Health Network Lytle Behavioral Health TOP ^
April 15, 2013 - ALTOONA REGIONAL HEALTH SYSTEM TO MARK EARTH DAYAltoona Regional Health System will hold its third annual Earth Day event on Friday, April 19, sponsored by the Go Green Committee. The committee has partnered with Burgmeier's Recycling Center to give employees the perfect way to de-clutter for free and help the environment by bringing in 50 pounds of recyclable paper products from home. As part of its green initiative, Altoona Regional has been using reusable sharps containers. That effort alone has kept more than 32,000 pounds of plastic and almost 2,500 pounds of cardboard out of landfills and prevented more than 19,000 pounds of CO2 emissions in the past two years. (Source: www.stericycle.com/carbon-footprint) These numbers equate to not burning 989 gallons of gas or not using 363 home barbecue grill propane tanks. In 2012, Altoona Regional recycled 699,000 pounds of material that included cardboard, paper, aluminum and steel cans, and glass and plastic bottles. TOP ^
April 14, 2013 - New Video Conferencing Equipment Improves Access, Communication Between Deaf Community and Medical Providers: COMMUNITY INVITED TO ATTEND DEMONSTRATION; ASL Interpreters AvailableAltoona Regional Health System's Case Management department will hold an open house from 5-8 p.m. on Wednesday, April 17, in the Magee Lecture Hall, Outpatient Center, Altoona Hospital Campus, to demonstrate new video conferencing equipment with certified American Sign Language (ASL) interpreters. Please note the new location is Magee Lecture Hall. Free parking is available in the parking garage and refreshments will be served. The goal of the demonstration is to increase awareness of new computer-on wheels video conferencing equipment purchased to improve access and communication between the Deaf community and medical providers. Representatives from DT Interpreting Co. and the Case Management department will demonstrate the equipment and answer questions. "Communication between physician and patient is complicated," said Cathy Sprouse, director of Case Management. "When you add the additional factor of being unable to hear an obstacle to quality treatment may occur. Video conferencing helps us meet patients' needs in an urgent or emergent situation almost immediately. Often it is difficult to find a certified ASL interpreter immediately. This system fills that gap. "The system is easy to set up, portable, and offers a quick, live, interactive wireless connection with an interpreter. Communication between patient and clinical care providers occurs dynamically and spontaneously. Time is critical in treatment, especially in emergency situations," Sprouse said. For information, call 889-2256. TOP ^
April 10, 2013 - NUTRITION SERVICES ASSISTANT RETIRED WITH 26 YEARS OF SERVICE
Baughman began her career in the Altoona Hospital kitchen in 1987 and, except for a brief time in Environmental Services, spent her entire career in various aspects of food preparation for patients, families, visitors, employees and dignitaries attending special functions. Baughman's responsibilities included cold-food preparation, meats, salads for patients and the salad bar, preparing food for special functions, preparing patient trays and patient food cards and working in the serving line. TOP ^
April 10, 2013 - MATTHEW E. NEWLIN, M.D., EARNS RECERTIFICATION
Dr. Newlin is a member of Allegheny Regional Surgical Associates, Altoona, where he performs all aspects of general surgery, with an emphasis on advanced laparoscopic surgery and laparoscopic bariatric surgery. Allegheny Regional Surgical Associates is affiliated with Altoona Regional Health System. TOP ^
April 10, 2013 - BONSELL PROMOTED TO ALTOON REGIONAL PAYROLL MANAGER
Bonsell obtained an associate degree in Specialized Business/Business Administration-Accounting from South Hills Business School, State College. TOP ^
April 4, 2013 - COMMUNITY INVITED TO ATTEND DEMONSTRATION OF NEW VIDEO CONFERENCING EQUIPMENT WITH AMERICAN SIGN LANGUAGE INTERPRETERSAltoona Regional Health System's Case Management department will hold an open house from 5-8 p.m. on Wednesday, April 17, to demonstrate new video conferencing equipment with American Sign Language Interpreters. The community, particularly the Deaf community, is welcome to attend the informational event to be held in the Rotunda, 6th floor, Outpatient Center, Altoona Hospital Campus, 620 Howard Ave. Refreshments will be served and parking is free in the garage. Representatives from DT Interpreting Co. and the Case Management department will demonstrate the equipment and answer questions. "Our goal is educate the Deaf community, family, friends and anyone else with an interest in this service to help this population should they find themselves in our facility. It is our desire to meet their needs in the best ways possible," said Cathy Sprouse, director of Case Management. "Also, professionals from other agencies who work with the Deaf community are invited so they are informed about our new technology and can tell their clients. Many times, anxiety can be reduced if someone understands how to make an ASL Interpreter request and understands the process of what happens during a visit to the emergency room or upon admission, " Sprouse said. More information is available by calling 889-2256. TOP ^
April 2, 2013 - ALTOONA REGIONAL HEALTHY LIVING CLUB SETS APRIL PROGRAMSAltoona Regional Health System's Healthy Living Club has scheduled the following educational programs and screenings for April as a community service. Call 889-2630 or 1-888-313-4665 unless otherwise indicated to make an appointment or to register. Programs are open to all adult age groups unless otherwise specified. Most classes are held at:
For more information, visit www.altoonaregional.org/classes_healthyliving.htm If you are 55 or older, looking to improve your strength, flexibility and balance and start toning up, then Healthy Steps In Motion is for you! Two different classes are offered: 8:15 a.m. or 10 a.m., every Monday, Wednesday and Friday at Abundant Life Assembly of God Church, 231 Howard Ave, Altoona. No fee. Registration required. Healthy Steps in Motion is a fun, peer-led, weight resistance and strength training program designed with you and your good health in mind. Don't delay, call today! A Child Safety Seat Checkup Station will take place on 9:30-11 a.m. Friday, April 12, in the Altoona Hospital Campus parking garage, Blue Level. Look for the Safe Kids van. No fee. By appointment only. 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. A free screening for osteoporosis (heel scan) for men and women will be held from 12:30-3 p.m. on Friday, Apr. 12, by appointment only at Station Medical Center, Imaging Services department. 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. Call 889-2630 or 1-888-313-4665 to schedule your appointment. A free screening for peripheral artery disease (PAD) will be held by appointment only from 8 a.m.-2:30 p.m. Tuesday, April 16, in the Vascular Institute, 3rd floor, Outpatient Center, Altoona Hospital Campus. 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. We all hope to be able to communicate to the end, but what if things don't work out that way? Who will speak for you if you can't speak for yourself? Join Vicki Wertz, attorney and member of Altoona Regional's Ethics Committee, for a discussion of the importance of making your health care wishes known to your loved ones; what considerations are involved; naming a substitute decision-maker, and how to go about putting it in writing. The discussion will be from 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Friday, April 12, in the Education Center, Trzeciak Conference Suite, 2621 8th Ave. Includes a lunch that will begin at 11 a.m. Both durable power of attorney for health care and living wills will be discussed and sample forms provided. Ample time will be allotted for questions. There is no fee, but registration is required. Call 889-2630 or 1-888-313-4665 to register. Seniors for Safe Driving is offering a four-hour refresher course for anyone who has previously taken the eight-hour course. The refresher course is from 8:45 a.m.-12:45 p.m. on Saturday, April 13, 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 age 55 and older. Most require both spouses insured under the same policy to take the class to receive a discount. "Suicide Prevention Seminar: Becoming an Active Listener" will cover the questions to ask and signs to look for in someone you feel may be contemplating suicide. Join the Rev. David Hammerle from 6:30-8:30 p.m. Monday, April 29, at the Station Medical Center Conference Room (use the K-4 entrance, left of Fresenius Dialysis Center). Rev. Hammerle, a member of Altoona Regional's Pastoral Care department and counselor for Day One of Altoona, will discuss the questions to ask and the signs to look for in someone you feel may be contemplating suicide. Everyone feels blue or depressed once in a while, but what do you do if you think someone you know is feeling hopeless and helpless and could be considering suicide? Rev. Hammerle will provide instruction in becoming an active listener to help you "hear what they are not saying" and the steps to take to provide hope and help. Donation of $10 is requested but not required. This donation will go toward the support of Day One of Altoona, a nonprofit, faith-based counseling service. Registration required. Call 889-2630 or 1-888-313-4665. Beginners, you can experience Hatha yoga with registered instructor Gail Murphy for a six-week series. Classes are from 5:30-6:40 p.m. on Tuesdays, April 23 through May 28 (no class May 21), in the Rotunda, 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. Hatha yoga offers mind/body exercise, breath control, stretching and strengthening to promote mental, physical and spiritual well-being. National Health Care Decisions Day will be marked at Altoona Regional on Tuesday, April 16. If you are 18 or older and don't have a living will or durable medical power of attorney, stop by our information table in the main lobby of the Altoona Hospital Campus between 9 a.m. and 3 p.m. for information and forms. Altoona Regional's Case Management department is participating in a collaborative effort with national, state and community organizations to ensure that adults with decision-making capacity have information and an opportunity to communicate their personal health care decisions. Pennsylvania advance medical directive forms and other information will be available. TOP ^
April 2, 2013 - ALTOONA REGIONAL OFFERS SUPORT GROUPS/CLINICS IN APRILAltoona Regional Health System offers the following support group meetings and patient clinics in April 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; Dining Room A adjacent to the Cafeteria on Tower 4, and the School of Nursing Auditorium Alzheimer's Support Group meets at 6:30 p.m. Tuesday, April. 30, in the Allegheny Room. For information, call 946-9002. Bariatric Information Sessions by Allegheny Regional Surgical Associates, 5-6 p.m. Wednesday, April 17, in the Rotunda. For information, call 943-7040. Bariatric Support Group, 6-7 p.m. Wednesday, April 3, in the Rotunda. Call 943-7040. Breastfeeding classes are offered to expectant parents Wednesdays, April 3 and 10, from 6-8 p.m. in the Allegheny Room. Two-part class and participants are encouraged to attend both parts. Call 889-2557. The Breast Cancer Support Group meets from 6 to 7:30 p.m. Thursday, April 4, in the Bedford Room. Call 674-3708. The Caregivers Corner Support Group meets at 11:30 a.m. Thursday, April 4, at Hoss's in Duncansville. Call 889-3123. Central Pennsylvania Ostomy Support Group meets at 2 p.m. Sunday, April 21, in the Rotunda. Call 943-3782. The Depression and Bipolar Self-Help Group meets at 7 p.m. Wednesdays in Dining Room A. Call 889-2141. Parkinson's Disease Support Group meets at 11 a.m. Monday, April 29, at Hoss's in Altoona. Guest speaker Carolyn Buck, a clinical hypnotherapist, will discuss the power of relaxation techniques and other methods to improve quality of life. Call 889-2141. The following support groups meet at the Station Medical Center, 17th Street and 9th Avenue. For the Conference Room, use the K4 entrance. The Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation department offers convenient parking and a patient drop-off area on the 17th Street side of the building. The Grief Support Group meets at 6 p.m. Wednesday, April 3 and 17, in the Conference Room. The Stroke Support Group meets from noon to 2 p.m. Tuesday, April 9, in the Conference Room. Call 889-2356. Wheelchair Clinics will be held at 10:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. Tuesday, April 9, in the Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation department. Physician referral and appointment required. Call 889-4463. TOP ^
March 28, 2013 - ENVIRONMENTAL SERVICES ASSISTANT RETIRES WITH 42 YEARS OF SERVICE
Boggs began her career at Mercy Hospital in February 1971. Over a 10-year span, she worked as a nursing assistant in pediatrics, SCU, and med/surg. In 1981, she transitioned to working as a physical medicine aide/escort, and in June 2008, Boggs joined the team in Environmental Services. TOP ^
March 26, 2013 - NEW CHAPEL PROJECT GAINS SUPPORT FROM SYSTEM AUXILIARY
"This project truly embodies why Friends works so hard to fund-raise," Peggy Cawthern, Friends president, said. "The chapel offers a place for people of all faiths to pray and refresh their spirit with quiet reflection amidst an often upsetting, chaotic crisis of a sick loved one or work environment. The mission of Friends is to assist patients and staff, and this project accomplishes both in a truly impactful, enduring way. " Tony Conrad, director of Pastoral Care, expressed gratitude for the generous gift, which will be made in four installments over four years. "Friends members truly understand the mission of this department to minister to the spiritual needs of patients and our staff," he said. "Masses are often so crowded participants spill into the hallway." The design of the new all-faiths chapel is under way, said Jim DeStefano, director of Construction and Design, in space formerly occupied by the City View Café. At this time, the expansion includes additional seating and a sacristy, a room where chaplains prepare for Masses and services. Another intent, Conrad said, is to incorporate pieces of the chapel retained from the chapel at Bon Secours, especially the stained glass windows. "The move also provides an opportunity to emphasize the blending of the rich heritage and history of both campuses," he added. Photo: Standing at the altar of the existing chapel, Peggy Cawthern, president, Friends of Altoona Regional Health System, and Tony Conrad, director of Pastoral Care, discuss plans for a new chapel. Friends, the health system auxiliary, recently pledged $90,000 over the next four years for a larger all-faiths chapel. TOP ^
March 19, 2013 - GROUP DONATES QUILTS FOR ALTOONA REGIONAL CANCER PATIENTS
The Penn State donation will be used to benefit improved breast cancer detection and treatment at Altoona Regional. The Foundation for Life raises funds to support exceptional nonprofit health care for everyone in this region. In the photo are (from left) - Casey Shoup, assistant coach; Donna Kling, head coach; Gayle Conner, development associate, Foundation for Life; Alidia Strouse, captain; Allyson Hoffman, captain, and Pat Nagle, assistant coach. TOP ^
March 6, 2013 - BREASTFEEDING CLASS CANCELED FOR TONIGHTAltoona Regional Health System's Breastfeeding Class for tonight is canceled due to the inclement weather. TOP ^
March 5, 2013 - HOSPITAL LIFTS VISITING RESTRICTIONSAltoona Regional Health System has lifted the visiting restrictions that were put in place at the height of the flu season in January. Normal visiting guidelines now apply in all units. As always, anyone feeling ill should not visit a hospital patient, especially if they have signs or symptoms of a cold or the flu. Flu-like symptoms can include fever, body aches, runny nose, sore throat and cough, and rarely nausea, vomiting or diarrhea. TOP ^
February 28, 2013 - DIANE HARRIS NAMED INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY DIRECTOR
"The director is responsible for the day-to-day operations of all aspects of Information Technology, including solving problems in software, ensuring that failed hardware is repaired, and keeping new installation on track and within budget. IT consists of three areas: Applications, Technology and the Support Desk, with approximately 40 dedicated employees," Fuller said. Beginning her management career in HIM in 1987 in the Department of Corrections systems as well as consulting in various types of facilities, Harris moved into the acute-care setting at Bon Secours-Holy Family Hospital as the director of HIM and privacy officer. She continued as the director of HIM for Altoona Regional upon the merger. She spearheaded the transition in HIM from paper to an electronic record, creating improvements throughout the health system. This project and others drew upon her strengths and abilities to work cooperatively in both the HIM and IT fields, which is a growing industry trend. "The integration of HIM and IT is a perfect mix," Harris said. "For instance, with health information exchange taking place between facilities, the demand for more technology and its processes in HIM is critical and ever-evolving. My knowledge, experience and national networking contacts helped me forge a solid relationship with IT. I am extremely comfortable in both worlds." She is credentialed and a member of the American Health Information Management Association (AHIMA) and Pennsylvania Health Information Management Association. Known for her public speaking skills, she has presented at the prestigious AHIMA national conference as well as at other events. Harris lives in Cresson. TOP ^
February 28, 2013 - COMMISSION ON CANCER ACCREDITS ALTOONA REGIONAL'S PROGRAM
Only 30 percent of hospital cancer programs in the U.S. and Puerto Rico attain this status yet they diagnose and/or treat approximately 80 percent of all newly diagnosed cancer patients each year. "This seal of approval from the Commission on Cancer confirms that we have achieved the high quality care we want to provide our patients," said Jack Schocker, M.D., medical director of Radiation Oncology at the Center for Cancer Care. "It is a tribute to every member of our team." The Commission on Cancer's (CoC) accreditation program sets quality-of-care standards for cancer programs and reviews the programs to ensure they conform to those standards. Accreditation by the CoC is given only to facilities that voluntarily commit to providing the highest level of quality cancer care and undergo a rigorous evaluation process and performance review. To maintain accreditation, facilities with CoC-accredited cancer programs must undergo an on-site review every three years. Receiving care at a CoC-accredited cancer program ensures that a patient will have access to:
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February 28, 2013 - GROUP DONATES QUILTS FOR ALTOONA REGIONAL CANCER PATIENTS
"Speaking for the staff and patients of the Medical/Oncology unit and the inpatient Hospice/Palliative Care Unit," said Todd Azeles, nurse manager, "I would like to express my sincere gratitude to the Bonnie Hunter Club for the donation of these beautiful quilts. "The staff will enjoy the opportunity to offer them to their patients and share in the appreciation and comfort they will bring. Dealing with a cancer diagnosis and the treatment that at times can be life-altering is a challenging task for our patients and families. These quilts, and the caring involved in their creation, will provide our patients with warmth and a sense of the comforts of home during this difficult time." This group meets monthly on the second Monday to make quilts. In the quilting community, Bonnie Hunter is a well-known author and quilt teacher. She instructs others how to make quilts from the scrap material left over from other projects. Members of this group include Doris Caldwell, Fae Kurtz, Jane Jakovac, Eunice Pile, Deb Clark, Heather Sipes, Bonnie Doran and Theresa Leppert, mother of employee Angie Claar, secretary of Infection, Prevention & Control, who served as liaison for the donation. "We appreciate this thoughtful gift and the efforts of our employee Angie Claar who advocated on behalf of our cancer patients," said Shirley Hoyne of Altoona Regional's Foundation for Life. "It is an example of how groups and individuals can assist in fulfilling patient needs or providing a caring touch by using their unique and diverse special talents." Wrapped in Love Foundation Inc. supplies the canvas carry totes for each quilt. Photo: At the first quilt presentation are (from left) Todd Azeles, Anita Grimes, Theresa Leppert, Shirley Hoyne, Doris Caldwell and Angie Claar. TOP ^
February 26, 2013 - ALTOONA REGIONAL MOVES FORWARD WITH UPMCThe boards of directors of Altoona Regional Health System and parent company Central Pennsylvania Health Services Corporation have signed a nonbinding letter of intent to negotiate an affiliation with UPMC (University of Pittsburgh Medical Center), a world-class academic medical center. UPMC was ranked No. 10 in the prestigious U.S. News & World Report annual Honor Roll of America's Best Hospitals in 2012 and No. 1 in Pennsylvania, with 15 adult specialty areas ranked for excellence. The letter of intent follows the announcement in November of Altoona Regional's decision to pursue affiliation talks with UPMC and is the result of comprehensive discussions held since then. The signing means that we and UPMC have agreed to conditions of a prospective affiliation that would:
A due diligence period will follow. The next and final step in the process would be the signing of a definitive agreement to affiliate. "This is an exciting and significant next step toward a formal affiliation between two outstanding medical institutions," said Jerry Murray, president and CEO of Altoona Regional. "I am very pleased with the decision our community board members have made," said Rob Halbritter, Altoona Regional board chairman. "UPMC shares our commitment to superior quality patient care and our vision for the future. An affiliation with UPMC will be extremely positive for Altoona Regional, our patients, and the entire region." "Altoona Regional and UPMC have had a longstanding and cooperative relationship," said Elizabeth B. Concordia, executive vice president, UPMC, and president, Hospital and Community Services Division. "UPMC is committed to the continued growth and elevation of services at Altoona Regional Health System and to enhancing Altoona Regional's established role as the region's leading tertiary care provider." For more than a year, Altoona Regional's Board of Directors has been exploring an affiliation with a larger system that would offer opportunities to enhance and expand the exceptional care the health system provides, while addressing the significant challenges and financial pressures in health care today. During this process, several potential partners shared with the boards their visions of the future of health care in Pennsylvania. The boards spent significant time evaluating how those visions fit with Altoona Regional's own vision of being a world-class health care organization. ''UPMC was chosen because we are only interested in a relationship that will enable Altoona Regional to further enhance its quality of care and breadth of medical services," said Murray, "while gaining new access to capital and outstanding technology, science, innovation and expertise." About Altoona Regional Altoona Regional is a nonprofit community health care provider with a 380-bed acute-care hospital anchoring a system that includes a modern outpatient center, surgery 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. About UPMC UPMC is a $10 billion global health enterprise with more than 55,000 employees headquartered in Pittsburgh, Pa., and is transforming health care by integrating more than 20 hospitals, 400 doctors' offices and outpatient sites, a health insurance services division, and international and commercial services. Affiliated with the University of Pittsburgh Schools of the Health Sciences, UPMC ranked No. 10 in the prestigious U.S. News & World Report annual Honor Roll of America's Best Hospitals in 2012 - and No. 1 in Pennsylvania - with 15 adult specialty areas ranked for excellence. UPMC is redefining health care by using innovative science, technology, and medicine to invent new models of accountable, cost-efficient, and patient-centered care. For more information on how UPMC is taking medicine from where it is to where it needs to be, go to UPMC.com. TOP ^
February 25, 2013 - KAREE SAYLOR PROMOTED TO GREETER SERVICES COORDINATOR AT STATION MEDICAL CENTER
She joined Altoona Hospital in 1999 as a phlebotomist in the Laboratory. She graduated from the University of Pittsburgh with a bachelor's degree in Communications/Public Relations. "I firmly believe each person who walks through our doors should be greeted with a smile and a 'May I help you?'" she said. "It is that personal contact that distinguishes us as a world-class health system." TOP ^
February 25, 2013 - NUTRITION SERVICES ASSISTANT KATHY SOLLENBERGER RETIRES WITH 43½ YEARS OF SERVICE
While a senior in high school, Kathy was a part-time dietary worker until she was hired full-time three months after graduation in 1969. Kathy worked in various Nutrition Services positions during the years but spent the majority of her career preparing trays for inpatients. She was a crew leader from 1973 to 2007. TOP ^
February 11, 2013 - DAVID M. JUNKIN JR., M.D., JOINS SOUTHERN ALLEGHENIES ELITE ORTHOPEDICS
Dr. Junkin is a board certified orthopedic surgeon specializing in general orthopedics and sports medicine, with a focus on the treatment of injuries and disorders of the shoulder, knee and ankle. He joins Drs. Charles Harvey, Corey Schutt and Jack Rocco at Elite Ortho. After earning a master's degree in Medical Sciences from Drexel University in Philadelphia, he received his medical degree from Temple University School of Medicine in Philadelphia. He completed his residency in orthopedic surgery at Temple University Hospital. Following his residency training, Dr. Junkin completed the Sports Medicine Fellowship at the University of Kentucky's Albert Chandler Medical Center in Lexington. During his fellowship training, he served as the physician for the athletic teams at three universities in Kentucky. Dr. Junkin has authored articles in several journals and a chapter on ACL reconstruction in a professional publication. He has presented lectures on sports medicine and medical therapy for the injured knee. Dr. Junkin is a fellow in the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgery. He holds memberships in the Arthroscopy Association of North America, the American Orthopaedic Society for Sports Medicine and the Pennsylvania Orthopaedic Society. He participates as an instructor for the Arthroscopy Association of North America, teaching orthopaedic residents arthroscopic skills and procedures. Contact information: Elite Orthopedics, 601 Hawthorne Drive, Hollidaysburg; phone 889.3600. TOP ^
February 7, 2013 - AEROPOSTALE DONATES TEDDY BEARS FOR MATERNITY DEPARTMENT TO GIVE TO AREA PARENTS OF NEWBORNS
Ann Kowalski (left), assistant manager, and Theresa Koch (right), store manager, present the donation to Shirley Hoyne, acting coordinator of Altoona Regional's Foundation for Life, which raises funds to support exceptional nonprofit health care for everyone in this region. TOP ^
February 5, 2013 - TICKETS ON SALE: ALTOONA REGIONAL'S WOMEN'S NIGHT OUT APRIL 25
Sterry is a speaker, recording artist, author, singer-songwriter, and storyteller. She performs across America and Europe as herself and as her exuberant alter-ego "Aunt Lena," sharing a thought-provoking and hilarious approach to living life audaciously and making a real and positive difference in people's lives. She has a background in psychology, nursing, education and performance, and is a member of numerous professional associations. She has taught storytelling for Portland State University, hosts several Internet video and radio shows, and has released several books and music and spoken-word CDs. 
The evening is cosponsored by Altoona Regional's Healthy Living Club, Friends of Altoona Regional and Altoona Regional's Foundation for Life. Participants will have the opportunity to buy chances for jewelry donated by Your Jewelry Box, Altoona. Proceeds benefit women's health services at Altoona Regional. Arrival is between 5:45 and 6:45 p.m. to obtain reserved ticket and participate in fund-raising event. Dinner is served at 6:45 p.m. Registration and pre-payment of tickets is necessary to attend. Fund-raising tickets are purchased at an additional cost. The evening includes the program, appetizer, salad, meal, coffee, soft drinks and dessert for $40 per person. Tables seat a maximum of 10. For more information and to register online visit: www.altoonaregional.org/WNO. TOP ^
January 30, 2013 - ALTOONA REGIONAL PARTICIPATES IN WEAR RED DAYSAltoona Regional is participating in Wear Red Days to support the fight against heart disease. This event lets employees participate in this cause and raise awareness among patients and visitors. In conjunction with the Wear Red Days activity, the public is invited to attend these additional events to raise awareness of heart disease, including free blood pressure screenings; chances to win gift certificates, pedometers and other prizes, and free lifesaving materials about heart disease. Public Wear Red Day events are scheduled:
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January 24, 2013 - ALTOONA REGIONAL HEALTHY LIVING CLUB CANCELS PROGRAM TONIGHTAltoona Regional's Healthy Living Club cancels tonight's (Thursday, Jan. 24), evening program, "All About Statins." TOP ^
January 18, 2013 - ALTOONA REGIONAL HEALTH SYSTEM NURSE MANAGER JANET GROVE RETIRES WITH 41 YEARS OF SERVICE
Grove was hired in 1972 as a staff nurse on 7E, an orthopedic/surgical floor. Her experience in medical and surgical nursing grew through various assignments and she was promoted to assistant head nurse on T-14 Medical, followed a year later with a promotion to nurse manager of the surgical unit. From 1993 to 2003, she served as the manager of the Sterile Processing department, then returned to nursing management in 2003 on Pediatrics. TOP ^
January 17, 2013 - DON BECKSTEAD, M.D., WITH ALTOONA FAMILY PHYSICIANS RESIDENCY AT ALTOONA REGIONAL HEALTH SYSTEM CELEBRATES NATIONAL MEMBERSHIP
Dr. Beckstead is program director of the Altoona Family Physicians Residency at Altoona Regional Health System. To be members of the AAFP, family physicians must complete 150 hours of continuing medical education every three years to learn the most up-to-date treatments, technologies and medical research. Family physicians complete an extensive three-year residency program after graduating from medical school. As part of their residency, family physicians receive training in six major medical areas: pediatrics, obstetrics and gynecology, internal medicine, psychiatry and neurology, surgery and community medicine. As a result, family physicians are the only medical specialists qualified to provide comprehensive health care for people of all ages, both sexes, each organ system and every disease entity. The AAFP was the first national medical specialty organization to set continuing education requirements for its members. This requirement helps ensure family physician members remain educated on the most up-to-date medical technologies, research and techniques. About the American Academy of Family Physicians Founded in 1947, the AAFP represents 105,900 physicians and medical students nationwide. It is the only medical society devoted solely to primary care. Approximately one in four of all office visits are made to family physicians. That is 240 million office visits each year - nearly 87 million more than the next largest medical specialty. Today, family physicians provide more care for America's underserved and rural populations than any other medical specialty. Family medicine's cornerstone is an ongoing, personal patient-physician relationship focused on integrated care. For information about Altoona Family Physicians Residency at Altoona Regional Health System visit www.altoonafp.org To learn more about the specialty of family medicine, the AAFP's positions on issues and clinical care, and for downloadable multi-media highlighting family medicine, visit www.aafp.org/media. For information about health care, health conditions and wellness, please visit the AAFP's award-winning consumer website, www.FamilyDoctor.org. TOP ^
January 16, 2013 - JACK F. ROCCO, M.D., OF SOUTHERN ALLEGHENIES ELITE ORTHOPEDICS NAMED TO SHRINERS HOSPITAL BOARD, PHILADELPHIA
Dr. Rocco, an orthopedic surgeon with the Hollidaysburg practice, was named to a three-year term. Dr. Rocco worked at Shriners Hospital in 1994-95 and has been a member of the Jaffa Shrine since 2005. Southern Alleghenies Elite Orthopedics is a full-service orthopedics practice at 601 Hawthorne Drive, Hollidaysburg; phone 889-3600. For information: Elite Orthopedics: www.eliteorthodocs.com/orthopedic-physicians-jack-rocco.htm Shriners orthopedic program: www.shrinershospitalsforchildren.org/Hospitals/Locations/Philadelphia/Orthopaedics.aspx TOP ^
January 15, 2013 - HOSPITAL MODIFIES VISITING POLICY DUE TO INFLUENZAAltoona Regional Health System is modifying hospital visiting guidelines to protect patients, health care providers and the public during the current influenza season. Effective immediately, all visitors must be at least 18 years of age and a member of the patient's immediate family or a caregiver for the patient. Only two visitors at a time are permitted at a patient's bedside. All visitors to maternity must abide by these guidelines and wear a surgical mask provided by the hospital. As always, anyone feeling ill should not visit a hospital patient, especially if they have signs or symptoms of a cold or the flu. The decision to restrict visiting was made with input from infection prevention specialists due to an upswing in seasonal flu cases, according to Linnane Batzel, chief medical officer. Exceptions can be made for critical cases, and Dr. Batzel said the health system will work with families in those situations. She said the restrictions are temporary but are in effect until further notice and will change as the situation warrants. Altoona Regional's Infection Control department encourages people to continue to follow the precautions everyone should take during flu season. They include:
Flu-like symptoms can include fever, body aches, runny nose, sore throat and cough, and rarely nausea, vomiting or diarrhea. TOP ^
January 4, 2013 - 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 unless otherwise indicated to make an appointment or to register. Programs are open to all adult age groups unless otherwise specified. Most classes are held at:
For more information, visit www.altoonaregional.org/classes_healthyliving.htm If you are 55 or older, looking to improve your strength, flexibility and balance and start toning up, then Healthy Steps In Motion is for you! Two different classes are offered: 8:15 a.m. or 10 a.m., every Monday, Wednesday and Friday at Abundant Life Assembly of God Church, 231 Howard Ave, Altoona. No fee. Registration required. Healthy Steps in Motion is a fun, peer-led, weight resistance and strength training program designed with you and your good health in mind. Don't delay, call today! A free Zumba Fitness class will be offered Jan. 10 to check out the class, find out what all of the excitement regarding Zumba Fitness is about, and register for free for the series if you like what you see and feel. A seven-week series of Zumba classes runs Jan. 17-Feb. 28 in the School of Nursing Auditorium (parking across street in Blair Medical Center lot). The fee is $35. Taught by Brittany Umstead, founder of MainStreet Dance and Fitness and licensed Zumba fitness instructor, the Zumba program fuses Latin rhythms and easy-to-follow moves to create a one-of-a-kind fitness program. No dance experience is necessary to follow this routine, which features training sessions where fast and slow rhythms and resistance training are combined to tone and sculpt your body while burning fat. No need to preregister. Wear comfortable clothes and shoes (cross-training or aerobic-style shoes are recommended). For more information, go to www.mainstreetzumba.com or call Healthy Living at 889-2630 or 1-888-313-4665. A Child Safety Seat Checkup Station will take place on Friday, Jan. 11, from 9:30-11 a.m. in the Altoona Hospital Campus parking garage, Blue Level. Look for the Safe Kids van. No fee. By appointment only. 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. A free screening for osteoporosis (heel scan) for men and women will be held from 12:30-3 p.m. on Friday, Jan. 11, by appointment only at Station Medical Center, Imaging Services department. 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. Call 889-2630 or 1-888-313-4665 to schedule your appointment. Seniors for Safe Driving is offering a four-hour refresher course for anyone who has taken the eight-hour course: Saturday, Jan. 12, 8:45 a.m.-12:45 p.m. Rotunda, 6th floor, Outpatient Center, Altoona Hospital Campus. The four-hour refresher course is for anyone who has previously taken the seven-hour course. 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 both spouses insured under the same policy to take the class to receive a discount. A free screening for peripheral artery disease (PAD) will be held by appointment only from 8 a.m.-2:30 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 15, in the Vascular Institute, 3rd floor, Outpatient Center, Altoona Hospital Campus. 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. Join Pam Sepp, Altoona Regional clinical dietitian, as she provides good-food tips, tricks, information and motivation during the program "Better Nutrition for a Healthier You in 2013" on Friday, Jan. 18. Lunch is at 11 a.m. and the program is from 11:30 a.m. until 1 p.m. in the Education Center, Trzeciak Conference Suite, 2621 8th Ave. No fee. Registration required. Call 889-2630 or 1-888-313-4665. Learn about the importance of label reading, incorporating exercise, which foods to enjoy and which ones to limit in order to feel good, look good and ward off chronic conditions. Start off the new year right with sensible strategies to keep your New Year's resolution of a healthy diet in 2013. Ample time will be allotted for questions. Beginners, you can experience Hatha yoga with registered instructor Gail Murphy for a six-week series. Classes are from 5:30-6:40 p.m. on Tuesdays, Jan. 15-Feb. 19 in the Rotunda, 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. Hatha yoga offers mind/body exercise, breath control, stretching and strengthening to promote mental, physical and spiritual well-being. Join George Jabbour, M.D., interventional cardiologist with Blair Medical Associates, as he discusses the benefits and possible side effects of statins at 6:30 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 24. A light dinner is served at 6 p.m. followed by the program at 6:30 p.m. in the Rotunda, 6th floor, Outpatient Center, Altoona Hospital Campus No fee. Registration required. Call 889.2630 or 1.888.313.4665. Statins have been shown to significantly reduce the risk of cardiac disease in patients with high cholesterol levels and to reduce the risk of heart attack in patients with and without proven coronary artery disease. In addition, statins offer reduced risk of stroke and peripheral artery disease. Ample time will be allotted for questions. "Suicide Prevention Seminar: Becoming an Active Listener" will cover the questions to ask and signs to look for in someone you feel may be contemplating suicide. Join the Rev. David Hammerle from 6:30-8:30 p.m. Monday, Jan. 28, at the Station Medical Center Classroom (use the K-4 entrance, left of Fresenius Dialysis Center). Rev. Hammerle, a member of Altoona Regional's Pastoral Care department and counselor for Day One of Altoona, will discuss the questions to ask and the signs to look for in someone you feel may be contemplating suicide. Everyone feels blue or depressed once in a while, but what do you do if you think someone you know is feeling hopeless and helpless and could be considering suicide? Rev. Hammerle will provide instruction in becoming an active listener to help you "hear what they are not saying" and the steps to take to provide hope and help. Donation of $10 is requested but not required. This donation will go toward the support of Day One of Altoona, a nonprofit, faith-based counseling service. Registration required. Call 889-2630 or 1-888-313-4665. Join Sherry Gioiosa, prevention educator, as she helps participants learn steps to become tobacco-free and "This Time, Keep That New Year's Resolution!" Freedom From Smoking: Become Tobacco-Free is a seven-week series offered from 1:30-2:30 p.m. Thursdays, Jan. 31 through March 14, in the Oak Room of the Education Center. It will also be offered as an evening program from 5:30-6:30 p.m. Thursdays, Jan. 31 through March 14, in the Station Medical Center Classroom (use the K4 entrance left of Fresenius Dialysis Center). This American Lung Association program, offered in conjunction with the Blair County Drug and Alcohol Program Inc., will provide tobacco users with steps to understand tobacco addiction, create a quit plan, change behavior and thinking about using tobacco, manage stress and weight, and prevent relapse. Free nicotine replacement patches, gum or lozenges are available. For more information, go to www.determinetoquit.com or call the PA Quitline at 1.800.QUIT.NOW. Make the decision to quit today! Seating limited. TOP ^
January 1, 2013 - FIRST BLAIR COUNTY BABY OF NEW YEAR BORN AT ALTOONA REGIONALThe first Blair County baby of 2013 was born at 12:10 a.m. Jan. 1 in Altoona Regional Health System's Maternity unit. Joshua James Joseph Stuby was born to Lori and Joseph Stuby of Bellwood. He weighed 6 pounds, 13 ¾ ounces, and was 19 inches long. The Stuby family will receive the following gifts from the hospital: Mother: Dozen red roses and a $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 (donated by Friends of Altoona Regional) The families of all other babies born at Altoona Regional on Jan. 1 will receive the following gifts from the hospital: Mother(s): ½ dozen red roses and a $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 (donated by Friends of Altoona Regional) In addition, the last baby of 2012 born at Altoona Regional received the following gifts from the hospital: Mother: Dozen red roses and a $50 gift certificate from Target Father: $50 gift certificate from Target Baby: $50 gift certificate from Babies R Us (Toys R Us) Free newborn picture taken at hospital (donated by Friends of Altoona Regional) TOP ^
December 28, 2012 - ALTOONA REGIONAL OFFERS SUPPORT GROUPS/CLINICS IN JANUARYAltoona Regional Health System offers the following support group meetings and patient clinics in January 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 A adjacent to the cafeteria on Tower 4. Alzheimer's Disease Support Group meets at 6:30 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 29, in the Allegheny Room. Call 889-2141. Bariatric Information Sessions by Allegheny Regional Surgical Associates, 5-6 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 16, in the Rotunda. Surgeons explain how to improve or resolve obesity-related health issues and discuss details surrounding morbid obesity, surgical treatment, and requirements for surgery. Registration required, 814-889-7500. Bariatric Support Group, by Allegheny Regional Surgical Associates, 6-7 p.m., Wednesday, Jan. 2. Learn the benefits of yoga with a professional yoga teacher and licensed massage therapist from Bloom Yoga & Wellness. Wear something comfortable and bring a blanket to lie on. All post-surgical bariatric patients welcome. Call 814-889-7500. Breastfeeding classes are offered to expectant parents Wednesdays, Jan. 2 and 9, from 6-8 p.m. in the Allegheny Room. Two-part class. Participants are encouraged to attend both parts. Call 889-2557. The Breastfeeding Support Group meets at 10 a.m. and 5:30 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 23, Bedford Room. Call 889-2557. The Breast Cancer Support Group meets from 6 to 7:30 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 3, in the Bedford Room. Call 674-3708. The Caregivers Corner Support Group meets at 11:30 a.m. Thursday, Jan. 3, at Hoss's in Duncansville. Call 889-3123. The Depression and Bipolar Support Group meets at 7 p.m. Wednesdays in the Bedford Room. Call 889-2141. Diabetes Outpatient Education is available by individual appointment and group sessions. Physician referral required. Call 889-2487. Parkinson's Disease Support Group meets at 11 a.m. Monday, Jan. 28, at Hoss's in Altoona. The Support Group for Those Who Have Lost a Loved One to Suicide meets at 7 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 17, in the Access Center, Blair Medical Center, Building C, 501 Howard Ave. The group assists those who have experienced or are experiencing specific emotional feelings they can share with others in the aftermath of the suicide death of a loved one. Call 889-2706. The Station Medical Center is at 17th Street and 9th Avenue. To find the classroom, use public mall entrance K4, along the front of the building beside Fresenius. To find the Institute for Sleep Medicine, use the Altoona Regional main entrance, go straight and it is on your left. To find Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation (PM&R), drive past the main entrance to Altoona Regional Outpatient Services, go straight to the stop sign and turn right. PM&R is toward the back of the mall. The Faith-based Bereavement/Grief Support Group meets 6 to 7:30 p.m. Wednesdays, Jan. 2 and 16, in the classroom. Call 889-2132. Sleep Apnea Support Group, for those using CPAP or BiPAP therapy, meets at 6 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 22, at the Institute for Sleep Medicine. Call 889-4466. The Stroke Support Group meets from noon to 2 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 8, in the classroom. Call 889-2356. Wheelchair Clinics will be held at 10:30 and 11:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 8, in PM&R. Physician referral and appointment required. Call 889-4463. TOP ^
December 27, 2012 - FIRST BABY OF NEW YEARAltoona Regional Health System will provide gifts for the first baby born in 2013 and the last baby born in 2012, as well as for all babies born Jan. 1. The family of the first baby born in 2013 at Altoona Regional will receive: Mother: Dozen red roses and $50 gift certificate from Target Father: $50 gift certificate from Target Baby: $100 gift certificate from Babies R Us (Toys R Us) and free picture The families of all babies born at Altoona Regional on Jan. 1 will receive: Mother(s): ½ dozen red roses and $25 gift certificate from Target Father(s): $25 gift certificate from Target Babies: $50 gift certificate from Babies R Us (Toys R Us) and free picture The family of the last baby born in 2012 at Altoona Regional will receive: Mother: Dozen red roses and $50 gift certificate from Target Father: $50 gift certificate from Target Baby: $50 gift certificate from Babies R Us (Toys R Us) and free picture TOP ^
December 27, 2012 - Altoona Regional Issues Reminder On Tobacco-Free PolicyAltoona Regional Health System today issued a reminder to the community about its tobacco-free policy that will take effect Jan. 1. There are two components of the policy that have been designed to create a safer environment for patients and a healthier overall workforce:
Altoona Regional joins a nationwide trend that includes almost 70 Pennsylvania hospitals with tobacco-free medical campuses. Patients who smoke will be invited to speak with their physician or nurse about options that are available while they are in the hospital. "We strongly believe this is the right thing to do for our community," said President/CEO Jerry Murray. "Tobacco use is unhealthy for the users and those around them. As a health care system, our mission is to model healthy behaviors." TOP ^
December 21, 2012 - ALTOONA REGIONAL EMPLOYEES MAKE LARGE CONTRIBUTION TO TOASTY TODDLERS PROGRAM
Altoona Regional employees, volunteers, physicians and some community members donated 217 coats, boots and boxes of hats, gloves, mittens and scarves, many hand-made. St. Thomas More Catholic Church sixth-graders knitted fleece hats, gloves, mittens and scarves. In addition, Altoona Regional employees donated $205 in cash. More than 325 children were served by the Toasty Toddler project, according to the Family Resource Center at United Way. The program grew out of concern that infants and children to age 3 were not eligible for warm outerwear through other programs. Recipients come from referrals made to human service agencies that are working with families in need. Photo 1: Registered nurses Dominique Seasoltz, Jo Lines and Faith Nelson, represent members of the Same Day Surgery Unit and hold a few of the 15 coats, plus hats and mittens, the unit donated. Photo 2: A group of sixth-grade students from St. Thomas More Catholic Church hand-knit fleece hats, gloves, mittens and scarves. TOP ^
December 20, 2012 - FOUNDATION HOLIDAY EVENT RAISES MORE THAN $53,000The Altoona Regional Health System Foundation for Life's annual Holiday Splendor gala and auction raised $53,200 to help fund the purchase of newborn cardiac monitors to be used in the Maternity department. "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 Shirley Hoyne, event coordinator. "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, Holliday Corvette, Paris Healthcare Linen Services, S&T Bank, Southern Alleghenies Elite Orthopedics 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 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 19, 2012 - ALTOONA REGIONAL LABORATORY SECRETARY RETIRES WITH 35 1/2 YEARS OF SERVICE
Beers was hired by Altoona Hospital in 1977 as a professional secretary in the Pathology department and was promoted to her current position in May 1982. In March 1993, she became the Copath Computer System manager, which involved the design and implementation of Pathology's computer system. She continued to oversee numerous upgrades over the years. TOP ^
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