winter - augusta health

HealthMattersfall 2012 › › www.augustahealth.com

Vital vaccinations

Are you up to dAte?

easier mammograms

use our self-schedule feAture todAy!

See how we’re

helping our community!

bAck cover › ›

leArn more on pAge 6

cancer care has a new team on its side

in this issue › › fall 2012

3 LIKE A GOOD NEIGHBOR

A letter from Mary N. Mannix, FACHE

4 GEttING READy tO SERvE yOu

The Heart and Vascular Center prepares for March 2013 opening

6 PAtIENt-CENtERED CANCER CARE

8 ASK tHE EXPERt Augusta Health physicians and professionals answer your questions

9 tREAt yOuRSELF tHIS HOLIDAy SEASON Let La Vie Medi-Spa take care of you!

10 A SHOt OF GOOD HEALtH

Adults need vaccinations, too

12 SELF-SCHEDuLE MAMMOGRAPHy

Removing barriers to this lifesaving exam

14 NO APPOINtMENt? NO PROBLEM

15 BRINGING ADvANCED GI CARE tO AuGuStA HEALtH

Meet R. Christopher Harmon, MD, PhD

16 SPIDER vEINS HAvE yOu FEARING SuMMER?

La Vie Medi-Spa can help

18 A MISSION OF CARING

20 ON tHE LEvEL

What your cholesterol levels mean— and how to control them

21 A NEW vIEW

New SPECT/CT scanner provides patient-friendly, state-of-the-art imaging

22 HAPPENINGS At AuGuStA HEALtH

Calendar of classes and groups

26 NEW HEALtHCARE PROvIDERS

28 HELPING OuR COMMuNIty GROW

Local organizations get support through grants from Augusta Health

22

10

18

2 HealthMatters Fall 2012

16

8

www.augustahealth.com 3

Like a good neighbordeAr friends,

At Augusta Health, supporting our community is as important

to us as providing exceptional healthcare to our patients. That’s

why we provide multiyear grants to nonprofit organizations that

work to improve the well-being of those in our community. You

can read about our involvement with Project GROWS—which

educates children about the importance of healthy eating—on

the back cover of this publication.

Being a good neighbor doesn’t end in our community, though.

Our reach has extended abroad, where Augusta Health’s own

Walter Kerschl, MD, has embarked on medical missions to build

and staff a medical clinic in Haiti. Dr. Kerschl’s foundation, the

Rockbridge-Haiti Medical Alliance, has done a tremendous job of

providing expert and compassionate care to those who need it

most—and his work is far from over. Read more about Dr. Kerschl’s

“mission to care” on page 18.

the news your family needs

This issue of Health Matters has more of the up-to-date news and

information that can keep you healthy this season. From keeping

your kids healthy (page 14) to convenient mammography

(page 12) and health advice straight from the experts (page 8),

we hope the information in these pages helps you and your

family achieve your best health.

Best regards,

MARY N. MANNix, FACHEPRESiDENT AND CHiEF ExECuTiVE OFFiCERAuGuSTA HEALTH

t H E M A G A z I N E O F A u G u S tA H E A Lt HServing Staunton, Waynesboro and Augusta count ies

and surrounding communit ies

A u G u S t A H E A L t H B O A R D O F D I R E C t O R S

Rev. John C. Peterson, Chairman

Char les “M ick ” Andersen, MD

Stuar t Crow

John B. Davis

Wi l l iam Faulkenberr y, MD

Rober t G. K nowles

Laurel Landes

Mar y N. Mannix , FACHE

John “Rob” Marsh, MD

Ann D. McPherson

Bever ly S . “Cher i ” Moran

Wil l iam L . Pfost

Joseph R anzini , MD

Arona E . R ichard

Vic tor M. Santos

A u G u S t A H E A L t H H O S P I t A L S t A F F

President and CEO Mary N. Mannix, FACHE

Chief Medical Officer Fred Castello, MD

Chief Financial Officer John Heider

Executive Director AMG L. Courtenay Beebe, MD

v.P. Planning and Development Kathleen Heatwole

v.P. Chief Nursing Officer Robert McWhirt

v.P. Professional Services Karen Clark

v.P. AMG Administration Ann Rubino

v.P. Operations Lisa Cline

COMMuNICAtIONS

For more information about services at Augusta Health, please contact Lisa Schwenk, Director of Communications and Public Relations, at

[email protected] or (540) 245-7329.

Health Matters is published by Augusta Health, 78 Medical Center Drive, Fishersville, VA 22939. All rights reserved.

The information contained herein is not a substitute for professional medical care or advice. if you have medical

concerns, seek the guidance of a healthcare professional.Health Matters is aimed at connecting the community

with healthcare experts within Augusta Health to learn more about issues that may be affecting your health.

if you are not receiving Health Matters, you can view it online or request to be added to the

mailing list at www.augustahealth.com.

EDItOR/ DIRECtOR OF MARKEtING: Vicki KirbyWEBMAStER: Brian McGill


the future of heArt cAre in our AreA is fAst tAking shApe.

Set to open its doors in March 2013, the new, four-story

Augusta Health Heart and Vascular Center, which broke

ground on Oct. 1, 2011, is now a fully enclosed structure

connecting to the existing hospital. “The concrete is poured,

walls are going up and the electrical and plumbing systems

are being installed,” says Kathleen Heatwole, Augusta Health’s

vice president for planning and development.

Brick by brick, pipe by pipe, glass window by glass

window, the community has watched the building rise,

and to the casual observer, it may look—at least from the

outside—as if the hospital is ready to start seeing patients.

But according to Heatwole, this current phase of the project

and all the small details are very time-consuming work. “it

takes so long to do an interior,” she says.

The next phase will involve moving major medical

equipment into new space; that’s expected to take place

through January and February, Heatwole says. The hospital

will then have to meet strict building codes and be awarded a

certificate of occupancy by an inspector before it can open.

Getting ready to serve youThe Heart and Vascular Center prepares for March 2013 opening

A big impact

Of the 90,000 square feet being dedicated to the project,

70,000 is new space and 20,000 renovates existing hospital

space.

in addition to five top-notch cardiologists who have been

brought on board by Augusta Health, patients can expect

two new cardiac catheterization labs featuring the latest in

technology. Augusta’s much-praised cardiac rehabilitation

open ‘house’curious to learn more about all of the stages of the heart and vascular center’s progress? you can view photos, read updates and stay tuned for news about community events and tours of the new facility before its official opening—it’s all online at www.augustahealth.com/construction.

›› CONStRuCtION OF tHE HEARt AND vASCuLAR CENtER CONtINuES AS tHE CENtER PREPARES FOR ItS GRAND OPENING.

program will also see an upgrade. “it’s operating in such a

tight space,” Heatwole says of the program’s current location.

“it will be greatly enlarged from its current space and will be

located on the ground floor.”

Visitors to the hospital will appreciate the improved

cardiac cath team support space, including rooms equipped

with private bathrooms and the ability to wait in private for

your loved one.

Heatwole says the impact of the project is “tremendous

for the local community.” The total number of work hours

put into it was 154,609 through September, and 718 workers

have in some way contributed to the project.

Of course, the largest impact will be the community’s

access to such critical services. “We just recently completed

a community health assessment, and heart disease is the

No. 1 cause of death and disability,” Heatwole says, which

mirrors the statistics for the rest of the country.

“That’s why it’s so exciting to see this come to fruition,”

she says. “The sooner we are able to make the necessary

interventions, the less damage there is to the heart.”

floor by f loorPacked into every inch of the new Heart and Vascular

Center and renovated spaces are services that will

bring healthcare in the area to a whole new level.

Here’s what patients and visitors can expect:

Ground f loor Cardiac rehabilitation

Support services

New conference center

First f loor Noninvasive cardiovascular services

Second f loor invasive cardiology (two catheterization labs)

Cardiology and pulmonary/critical care medical

offices

third f loor Saved space for future development

›› CONStRuCtION WORKERS ARE BuSy COMPLEtING tHE INtERIOR SPACES OF tHE HEARt AND vASCuLAR CENtER.


PAtRICK juDSON, MD (LEFt) MONIquE PALMER, MD (CENtER) MICHAEL MARSHAL, MD (RIGHt)

››

P. Michael Marshall, PhD, ANP-C, the Cancer Center’s hematology/

oncology nurse practitioner, has joined the center’s staff after

working at the university of Virginia (uVA) for 22 years.

“i’m a lifetime resident of Augusta County, so Augusta Health

is my community-based hospital,” he says. “When the opportunity

came for me to do oncology here, that was very exciting, and i

was lucky enough to get the position.”

At uVA, Marshall specialized in breast and gastrointestinal

malignancies, but at the Cancer Center’s general oncology

practice, he sees patients with a variety of diagnoses.

Marshall was also involved with clinical trials at uVA, which

he plans to continue at the Cancer Center. “One of our goals is

to make clinical trials more accessible to patients here, without

having to go somewhere else,” he says. “We’re affiliated with the

Duke Oncology Network; clinical trials that are open at Duke are

available to bring here to Augusta Health. The doctors will help

decide what we should bring, based on patient needs. We’d like

to have some trials open up by the first of the year.”


›› (L-R) PAtRICK HENRy juDSON, MD; SHANIquE PALMER, MD; AND P. MICHAEL MARSHALL, PhD, ANP-C

bringing a new level of care to Augusta

www.augustahealth.com 7 www.augustahealth.com 7

if you need to visit the AugustA heAlth cAncer center,

you’ll find A modern, full-service cAncer center

offering A personAlized ApproAch to medicine.

According to Teresa Griffin, RN, a member of the

hospital’s Quality Performance improvement Council and a

surgical floor nurse, “By providing patients with the support

they need, we can improve patient outcomes.”

At the core of the center is a philosophy of providing

care that goes far beyond medical consultations and

treatments. “We take care of the whole patient,” says Patrick

Henry Judson, MD, medical director of medical oncology at

the center. “They’re not a disease, they’re human beings. Our

care focuses on the person and his or her family, psychosocial

situations and things going on besides cancer.”

Working together

When doctors at the center meet with patients, they explain the

entire disease process, including treatment options and the risks

and benefits of different therapies.

“it’s a collaborative process,” says Shanique Palmer, MD,

a hematologist/medical oncologist at the Cancer Center. “it’s

very important for patients to understand what’s going on. i

always tell patients, ‘The decision is yours. My job is to educate

you.’ it’s their body, and they need to take an active part in the

decision-making process.”

Dr. Palmer says that she tries to be empathetic to be a more

effective caregiver. “it can be a very emotional time for patients,

so giving compassionate care is important,” she says. “They may

be one of many patients to you, but you’re their only doctor.”

At many cancer centers, the focus on palliative care

(addressing pain and discomfort) is often considered an end-of-

life issue. At the Augusta Health Cancer Center, however, doctors

try to manage discomfort throughout treatment.

“We try to work with their symptoms from the beginning,

not just when they’re not doing well,” Dr. Judson says.

A positive place for healing

Dr. Judson strives to make the Cancer Center a welcoming

place for patients. “My mother died of breast cancer,” he says.

“When i was starting a similar center elsewhere, she told me,

‘Make it a place where people want to come: friendly and warm,

where they’re not just a number.’ That’s what we do here.”

Breast cancer patient Kim Lambert believes they’ve

succeeded. She’s impressed not only by the quality of

care that she receives from doctors, nurses and her breast

navigator, but also by her physician’s accessibility.

“i saw Dr. Judson three times during my last

appointment,” she says. “it makes you feel really good that

a doctor would take care of you that well. They’ve taken me

under their wing.”

Patient-centered cancer care

Drs. .Judson and Palmer, who moved to the Valley for their

current positions at the Augusta Health Cancer Center, are

adjusting well to their new surroundings.

Dr. Palmer, who grew up in Jamaica and worked at

the Mayo Clinic in Minnesota, is new to Virginia, but she

already feels at home. “i love the geographic area because

of the great diversity of the population and because i have

extended family and friends up and down the East Coast,” she

says. “Also, my husband and i are foodies, and we’ve already

sampled a few restaurants in Staunton that we’ve loved.”

For Dr. Judson, moving to Virginia has been a

homecoming of sorts. “i spent most of my professional life

out West—Hawaii, Denver, Nebraska, Santa Fe—but i grew

up in northern Virginia,” he says. “i’ve always wanted to live

here. The Shenandoah Valley and Blue Ridge Mountains are

perfect for me. There are lots of good restaurants, the hills

and trees are nice, and there are great places to go jogging.”

A warm welcome (and welcome back)

cancer has met its matchfor more information about the Augusta health cancer center, call (800) 932-0262, ext. 5960.


Ask the expertAugusta Health physicians and professionals answer your questions

Q: i thought allergies only occurred in the springtime. Why am i getting them now? Q: if i have to take a prescription

medication, is it safe to continue using my over-the-counter (otc) medications?

unfortunately, allergies can occur year-round, and the

change in season may bring additional allergens. Weeds, for

instance, are particularly prevalent during the fall months.

identify your allergy triggers and take steps to avoid them,

such as closing your windows at night to reduce pollen

entering your home; dusting and vacuuming regularly; and

showering after being outside to rinse pollen from your

hair and body. Over-the-counter (OTC) decongestants and

antihistamines also may help you control symptoms such

as congestion, itching, sneezing and runny nose. See your

healthcare provider for an evaluation and prescription

medications if OTC remedies and self-care measures don’t

offer enough relief, your symptoms worsen or you develop

asthma-like reactions such as wheezing.

Heidi Carr, FNP-C, is a certified nurse

practitioner specializing in internal medicine

with Augusta Health Family Practice. She

graduated from Elmira College in New York

and completed her graduate education

at SuNY upstate Medical university in

New York.

if you’ve been prescribed prescription medications, it’s

important to be aware of how each one can interact with

other prescriptions, OTC medications, dietary supplements

or even certain foods or beverages. Some interactions can

reduce a medication’s effectiveness, increase the severity

or likelihood of side effects or even result in a harmful

combination. And the more medications you take, the

greater the risk for interaction problems.

You can ensure your own safety and avoid dangerous

complications by reviewing your prescriptions and OTC

drugs and supplements on a regular basis with your doctor

or pharmacist. if you have more than one doctor, be sure to

tell him or her about all of the medications or supplements

you’re taking when you’re prescribed something new—this

will help your doctor assess the risk for interactions. And

using one pharmacy for all of your prescriptions can help

your pharmacist spot any potential medication conflicts.

Walter Kerschl, MD, is an internal

medicine physician with Augusta

Health internal Medicine. He is also the

founder of the Rockbridge-Haiti Medical

Alliance, which organizes medical

missions to Haiti. You can read more

about Dr. Kerschl on page 18.

HEIDI CARR, FNP-C

WALtER KERSCHL, MD


Ask the expertAugusta Health physicians and professionals answer your questions

the holidAy seAson cAn be both joyous And exhAusting.

sometimes you need A little “me” time to relieve stress

And re-energize yourself. Let the experts at La Vie Medi-

Spa at Augusta Health help you relax and rejuvenate. Board-

certified dermatologist Kristen Savola, MD, director of the

Medi-Spa, and her staff have what you need to look and feel

good this holiday season.

“What sets us apart is that we’re not just a spa. We’re

a medical office, too, so you’re getting highly qualified

dermatologists and staff who are looking at everything from

acne to anti-aging treatments,” Dr. Savola says.

Revitalizing services

Whether you’re looking to relieve some tension in your back

or are worried about a few pesky wrinkles, La Vie Medi-Spa

can help with a range of services, including:

anti-aging care

facial, hair and skin treatments

mineral makeup services

massage and body therapy

“We also offer the hydrofacial, which is a micro-

dermabrasion procedure that cleans out your pores and

immediately improves your skin tone and texture,” says

Dr. Savola. “You can only get this treatment here.”

While you’re there, you can do some holiday shopping.

Cosmetic products and gift cards are available as gifts for your

friends or family members.

treat yourself this holiday seasonLet La Vie Medi-Spa take care of you!

looking for gift ideas?la vie medi-spa has the gift choices you’re looking for this holiday season. stop in at 57 north medical park drive, suite 109 in fishersville, visit www.augustahealth.com/ la-vie or call (540) 213-2531 to purchase a gift certificate.

neW jane iredale cosmetics at la vie!Tired of using makeup that dries out your skin? Try the

mineral-based line of cosmetics by Jane iredale, now

available at Le Vie Medi-Spa.

“Mineral makeup doesn’t irritate skin, doesn’t clog

pores and has better sun protection than oil-based

makeup,” says Dr. Savola. “You can come in for a free

consultation to help you make decisions either for

yourself or for gift ideas for others.”

if you’re interested in learning more about the

Jane iredale collection and the benefits of mineral

makeup, set up a free consultation with Kristy

Chapman, head aesthetician at La Vie Medi-Spa, by

calling (540) 213-2531.

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›› BEFORE

›› AFtER


A shot of good healthAdults need vaccinations, too

vAccinAtions mAy seem more like A childhood

occurrence, like spelling tests And science projects.

But adults need their shots, too. Getting them helps

prevent the spread of disease—especially to people with

compromised immune systems and very young children

who may not be old enough to be vaccinated themselves.

“What may feel like a bad cold to you can be very bad for

an infant who hasn’t had his or her full vaccination schedule,”

points out Carolyn Palmer, BSN, an infection control nurse at

Augusta Health.

Here are four vaccinations you need to consider for your

health and the well-being of those around you.

Influenza

According to Palmer, approximately 200,000 hospital

admissions occur each year in the united States stemming

from the flu virus. “i’ve watched influenza for 26 years, and i’ve

seen people in their 20s on ventilators in the iCu because of

the flu,” she says.

The shot is recommended for all people 6 months old

and older. “Basically, anyone who doesn’t want to get the flu

should get the flu vaccine,” says Doug Larsen, MD, medical

director for the state Health Department’s Central Shenandoah

Health District, which covers some 280,000 Virginia residents.

it is strongly urged for those who face the greatest risk of

complications, such as those with heart disease and diabetes,

pregnant women and children.

Flu is ever changing, so you need to get vaccinated yearly.

A new vaccine is produced before every flu season and is

formulated based on the Southern Hemisphere’s season,

Dr. Larsen says.

Pertussis

Pertussis, also called whooping cough, is a serious respiratory

infection that can trigger severe breathing problems and,

in newborn babies, death. Coughing till vomiting is a more

common symptom in adults than the trademark “whooping”

sound, Palmer says.

Despite the availability of a vaccine (DTaP for first shots,

Tdap for boosters), it’s an illness that’s on the upswing in

Virginia and nationwide in both children and adults, says

Allison Baroco, MD, medical director of infectious diseases at

Augusta Health. Not getting vaccinated and waning vaccine

immunity are thought to be behind the trend.

Current recommendations suggest that adults get the

one-time Tdap booster shot if they did not receive the Tdap

booster as a preteen. Women who are pregnant, anyone who

will be caring for a young baby or family members who will

be around the baby regularly are urged to get the shot. Many

people are unaware that they are not up to date on this critical

vaccination, Dr. Larsen says.

Shingles

Shingles (herpes zoster) causes significant pain and skin

infections in adults, says Dr. Baroco. This condition, which

triggers a blistering rash, is caused by a reactivation of the

chicken pox virus and usually affects an isolated portion

of the body. (it’s important to note that you can’t spread

shingles; you can, however, give chicken pox to someone who

has not previously been exposed to the chicken pox virus.)

Pain or discomfort resulting from the shingles may last for

weeks, months or even years following the outbreak.

The shingles vaccine is recommended for those age 60 and

older in a one-time dose. Because the vaccine is relatively new,

it’s not yet known whether a booster is needed.

Pneumonia

if you’re age 65 or older, have a chronic disease or otherwise

have a compromised immune system, your healthcare

provider may recommend a pneumococcal vaccine. This will

help protect you from the lung infection pneumonia, which

can cause rapid breathing, fever, vomiting, chills and chest

pain. The vaccine can also help protect against meningitis

and certain blood infections.

Only one shot is typically needed, although a second

vaccination may be recommended if you have a chronic illness

or if you had your shot before age 65. Ask your doctor if you

need a second vaccination.


Adult immunization scheduleVaccine how often

Tetanus, diphtheria, pertussis (Td/Tdap) • 1 Tdap vaccine

• 1-dose Td booster every 10 years for adults ages 19 and older

Measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) • 1–2 doses for adults ages 19 to 55 who lack evidence of immunity

• 1–2 doses after age 55 if risk factors are present

Varicella (chickenpox) • 2 doses for adults ages 19 and older who lack evidence of immunity

Influenza • 1 dose annually for all adults

HPV vaccine for women • 3 doses between ages 19 and 26

HPV vaccine for men • 3 doses between ages 19 and 21

• 3 doses between ages 22 and 26 if risk factors are present

Pneumococcal polysaccharide (pneumonia) • 1–2 doses between ages 19 and 64 if risk factors are present

• 1 dose for ages 65 and older who lack evidence of immunity

Hepatitis A • 2 doses if risk factors are present

Hepatitis B • 3 doses if risk factors are present

Meningococcal (meningitis) • 1 or more doses if risk factors are present

Zoster (shingles) • 1 dose after age 60

Source: U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

scheduling A mAmmogrAm just got A Whole lot eAsier

At AugustA heAlth.

On July 1, the hospital began offering self-schedule

mammography for patients looking to set up a screening

mammogram appointment without first having to go

through the customary visit to their healthcare provider.

Typically, patients must obtain a written order for the

mammogram from their provider before being allowed to

even schedule the mammography screening. This multistep

process can be daunting for the time-pressed, but with self-

scheduling, you make the appointment and leave the rest of

the work to Augusta Health.

Self-schedule mammographyremoving barriers to this lifesaving exam

“We know people are working hard, and we’re really

reaching out to the community to make scheduling your

mammogram an easier process,” says Rader Dod, RT-R,

radiology director at Augusta Health, of the hassle-free,

streamlined approach.

Adds Diane Rapp, RT-RM, coordinator of Augusta Health’s

Women’s imaging: “We’re giving women better—and easier—

access to their yearly mammogram.”

How self-scheduling works

Women call the Augusta Health Women’s imaging Center

and schedule their mammograms directly. Before confirming


the mammogram necessityLike in most other conditions, early detection is key in beating breast cancer. “One in 8 women will be diagnosed with

breast cancer in her lifetime,” says Lisa Sullivan, mammography team leader at Augusta Health.

By the numbersAnother sobering statistic: A 2010 analysis found that only about half of insured women were getting their routine

mammograms. Separate research has pointed to factors such as unsatisfactory prior mammography experiences and

barriers to getting mammograms as playing a role in missed mammograms.

The results of a recent Mayo Clinic analysis also found that since the controversial recommendations released in 2009 by

the u.S. Preventive Services Task Force—which, among other things, recommended that women begin regular screenings

later, at age 50—the rate of mammograms for women in their 40s dropped by 6 percent, equaling about 54,000 fewer

mammograms. (Many leading cancer agencies and experts, including those at Augusta Health, have chosen to continue

following the American Cancer Society’s recommendation of beginning mammogram screenings at age 40.)

Your allyAccording to the u.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office on Women’s Health, a high-quality mammogram

and clinical breast exam are the best tools for detecting breast cancer early, when it’s more treatable. Thanks to these tools,

60 percent of breast cancers are caught before they spread, when patients have a five-year survival rate of 99 percent,

according to the American Cancer Society.

Your healthcare provider can help determine what your individual breast-screening schedule should be. Mammograms

are typically recommended every year, but women who have a personal or family history of breast cancer may require more

frequent testing and may need to begin at an earlier age.

the appointment, a patient will be asked a set list of questions to

determine if she is a candidate for this service, Rapp says. Women

who are candidates include those who:

are age 40 or older

have seen a healthcare provider in the past two years

Women who are not candidates include those who:

have no primary care provider or have not seen their provider in

more than two years

had a mammogram less than a year ago

have or have had breast-health issues, including pain, tenderness,

nipple discharge, lumps or masses

have implants

had previous abnormal mammograms or mammograms that

required follow-up

For women who meet the criteria, nothing else is needed.

Augusta’s imaging staff will secure the necessary written order for the

mammogram prior to the appointment.

Wait times for mammograms are usually less than a week, and the

exam is offered at the Women’s imaging Center on the Augusta Health

campus, Dod says. in addition to the mammogram, women will also

be given educational information about breast self-exams and clinical

breast exams (those performed by a healthcare provider). Results of

the exam are sent to the patient and her provider.

13 www.augustahealth.com

time to get tested!for more information about self-schedule mammography or to schedule your mammogram, please contact Women’s imaging services at Augusta health at (540) 332-4486 (staunton) or (540) 932-4486 (waynesboro). scheduling hours are monday through thursday, 7 a.m. to 5 p.m., and friday, 7 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.


We All hAve busy lives. Add in your children plAying

sports, And the dAys cAn get even shorter. Luckily,

Augusta Health can make one aspect of your hectic day a

bit easier. You can get your child’s sports and camp physicals

done at any of Augusta Health’s Convenient Care Clinics or

urgent Care Centers without an appointment.

Here when you need us

if your child is involved in school sports, it’s important to get

a sports physical once a year. The Convenient Care Clinics and

urgent Care Centers are ready for your child when the need

arises, and they’re open later than many physicians’ offices.

When you and your child come in, remember to

bring any forms required for your child’s activity. “it’s also

helpful for parents and guardians to discuss their child’s

medical history with them prior to coming in for a physical,”

recommends Bob Lianez, NP, a nurse practitioner at Augusta

Emergency Physicians and the Convenient Care Clinics.

The physical can go quickly but will be as thorough as

necessary, says Lianez. Patients will go over their medical

history, get a general head-to-toe evaluation (as well as a

cardiac and skeletal examination) and be approved for their

activities or referred to their primary care physicians for

follow-up.

No appointment? No problemour Convenient Care Clinics and urgent Care Centers offer convenient care for your child’s sports and camp physicals

What about school physicals?camp and sports physicals are a great way to make

sure your child is physically fit, but they aren’t an

alternative to a comprehensive school physical. school

physicals are not offered at the centers and should be

conducted by your child’s primary care physician.

CONvENIENt CARE CLINICS

Old trail, Crozet (434) 823-78961005 Heathercroft Circle,

Suite 400

Crozet, VA 22932

Monday–Friday,

10 a.m.–6 p.m.

Saturday–Sunday,

10 a.m.–5 p.m.

Staunton Walmart(540) 213-02771028 Richmond Ave. C

Staunton, VA 24401

Monday–Friday,

10 a.m.–7 p.m.

Saturday, 10 a.m.–5 p.m.

Sunday, noon–5 p.m.

Waynesboro Walmart(540) 949-9315116 Lucy Lane

Waynesboro, VA 22980

Monday–Friday,

10 a.m.–7 p.m.

Saturday, 10 a.m.–5 p.m.

Sunday, noon–5 p.m.

uRGENt CARE CENtERS

Staunton(540) 245-7470851 Statler Blvd.

Staunton, VA 24401

Monday–Sunday,

8 a.m.–7 p.m.

Weyers Cave(540) 453-00401140 Keezletown Road

Weyers Cave, VA 24486

Monday–Sunday,

noon–8 p.m.

many convenient locations


pAtients Who need AdvAnced gAstrointestinAl (gi)

cAre noW don’t hAve to look fArther thAn their oWn

neighborhood to find it, thAnks to the Addition of

boArd-certified gAstroenterologist r. christopher

hArmon, md, phd, to AugustA heAlth. After completing a

fellowship in advanced Gi endoscopy, Dr. Harmon now brings

his unique expertise to Augusta Health Gastroenterology.

Leading-edge procedures

Dr. Harmon is skilled in endoscopic ultrasound (EuS) and

endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP),

two procedures that until now were unavailable in this

region. “Generally, these tools are limited to major academic

centers, so i’m excited about bringing these leading-edge

technologies to Augusta Health,” Dr. Harmon says.

ERCP uses a combination of x-rays and endoscopy (which

uses a lighted, flexible tube with a camera attached) to

diagnose and treat problems of the pancreatic and bile

ducts. “We can perform procedures for bile duct stones,

strictures, tumors and other blockages,” explains

Dr. Harmon.

EuS also uses an endoscope to look at problems of the

digestive tract and the surrounding tissue and organs.

“Recent articles in respected medical journals confirm that

EuS for management of infections and pancreatic necrosis

is the most optimal therapy and prevents patients from

having to undergo complicated surgical procedures,” adds

Dr. Harmon. “The biggest benefit is in the diagnosis and

staging of cancer. if a patient has a tumor that’s detected by

endoscope or CT, this tool allows me to understand what it

is and stage the tumor to direct its treatment.”

Bringing advanced GI care to Augusta HealthMeet r. Christopher Harmon, Md, Phd

Right at home

Dr. Harmon may be new to Augusta Health, but he’s

no stranger to Fishersville. Dr. Harmon and his wife,

Vanessa Lee, MD, who also practices at Augusta Health

Gastroenterology, have lived in Fishersville for seven years,

where they have a farm and enjoy many outdoor activities.

After completing his fellowship in Roanoke, Dr. Harmon

was eager to return home. “i love living in this region,”

Dr. Harmon says.

make an appointment todaY!dr. harmon is seeing patients at Augusta health gastroenterology, located at 70 medical center circle, suite 302, in fishersville. to schedule an appointment, call (540) 245-7350.

comprehensive gi carein addition to endoscopic ultrasound and endoscopic

retrograde cholangiopancreatography, the Augusta

Health Endoscopy Center offers a wide range of

procedures to diagnose gastrointestinal disorders,

including:

colonoscopy

upper Gi endoscopy

bronchoscopy

transesophageal echocardiogram

capsule endoscopy

CHRIStOPHER HARMON, MD, PhD


La Vie Medi-Spa can helpWinter Will soon come And go, And it’ll be time to

pull out those shorts And sWimsuits And enjoy the

summer sun. if you’re one of the millions of people

affected by spider veins, however, you’re probably

dreading that time of year.

Stop dreading and do something about it! The

experts at La Vie Medi-Spa offer several vein removal

options for you to consider, which can help rid you of

those displeasing spider veins. Consider these options:

Sclerotherapy is a procedure that can be done right in

the office. The procedure involves injecting a solution

directly into the vein using a small needle, which causes

the blood to clot and seals off the spider veins from

other veins. Over a period of six to 10 weeks, the veins

will shrink and fade away. “Sclerotherapy is very safe,”

says Kristen Savola, MD, medical director of La Vie Medi-

Spa. “The only side effects that may occur are a treatable

brown pigmentation or small scarring.” Depending on the

amount of spider veins, a patient may need up to three

treatments to completely get rid of the veins.

Laser treatment is a noninvasive treatment for spider

veins. This procedure targets the blood vessels without

scarring. “it constricts the vessel and causes it to

dissolve,” Dr. Savola explains. “There are no needles, and

it’s a bloodless procedure.” it may take six to eight weeks

for best results.

Both treatments are permanent, and you won’t have

to worry about the veins reappearing. (You should refrain

Spider veins have you fearing summer?


from long periods of standing for up to two days after either

treatment.) They don’t require anesthesia and can be done

in the comfort of the office at La Vie Medi-Spa.

How to choose

Before choosing a treatment option, you’ll consult with

Dr. Savola to determine which treatment option is right for

you. “Sclerotherapy tends to be better for slightly larger

spider veins, whereas the laser is better for the superficial

veins that are red and right at the surface of the skin,” she

says. Laser treatment is also better for matted veins.

Another option may be a combination of both

procedures. Dr. Savola may suggest using sclerotherapy

for the larger veins and switching to laser treatment for

the smaller or matted veins, or simply for a touch-up.

The cost of each procedure will vary depending on

the extent of the treatment. Treatments can range from

$150 to $350. Dr. Savola will determine costs and discuss

your payment options with you during a consultation.

A team you can trust

Dr. Savola and her team have extensive knowledge of and

experience in spider vein treatments and offer a comforting

atmosphere for patients. “We are a medical office and we

are board-certified dermatologists performing the

procedure,” says Dr. Savola. “A treatment session is about

30 minutes long, and we work hard to make the procedure

as comfortable and painless as possible.”

fearing summer?

make an appointment!to learn more about spider vein treatments or to book a consultation with kristen savola, md, at la vie medi-spa, call (540) 213-2531.

how spider veins affect youKristen Savola, MD, medical director of La Vie Medi-Spa,

has the answers to your questions about spider veins.

Q: what are spider veins?a: What we most commonly consider spider

veins are the red or bluish veins that appear underneath

the skin on the legs and feet.

Q: who suffers from them?a: For the most part, spider veins are hereditary.

Most people think they have them because they stand

on their feet all the time or sit with their legs crossed,

but that’s not the reason. About 50 to 55 percent of

women and 40 to 45 percent of men in the united

States suffer from spider veins.

Q: do spider veins pose a health risk?a: Spider veins don’t pose any health risks;

however, spider veins should not be confused with

varicose veins that can cause health risks. Spider veins

are mainly cosmetic and can be removed at any time.


As A primAry cAre physiciAn, WAlter kerschl, md, hAd

AlreAdy committed his life to helping And heAling

others. But during his first international medical mission

to Honduras in 2008, he discovered that his medical skills

and compassionate spirit could have a far greater reach and

impact.

“We were traveling around to multiple villages when

i realized that another medical mission might only return

to that same place in three years,” recalls Dr. Kerschl,

who is also a physician executive at Augusta Health.

During that mission to Honduras, Dr. Kerschl and a friend,

Joshua Harvey, resolved to create an organization that

could organize regular medical mission trips to help

impoverished people abroad, and the Rockbridge-Haiti

Medical Alliance was born.

“Our inspiration was a desire to guide and support

impoverished people—empower them to help themselves,”

Dr. Kerschl says.

A helping hand

Dr. Kerschl and Harvey decided to concentrate their efforts

in Fond Pierre, located in the central part of Haiti (about

three hours by car from Port-au-Prince). in addition to being

in need of help—Haiti is the poorest country in the Western

A mission of caring

Hemisphere—the closer proximity to the united States meant

that more frequent trips to Fond Pierre would be possible.

Since its founding in 2009, the Rockbridge-Haiti Medical

Alliance has organized four medical missions to this area;

a fifth trip is currently being planned for March 2013.

Making progress

in nearly four years, the Rockbridge-Haiti Medical Alliance,

A typical tripDr. Kerschl usually recruits six missionaries (who can

include physicians, nurses, allied health and medical

students, EMTs and nonmedical persons) to accompany

him on his medical missions to Haiti.

After flying to Port-au-Prince, the team travels over

mountains and through rough roads and neighboring

villages to Fond Pierre. For the next three days, they run

the clinic, seeing hundreds of adults and children. On

the fourth day, the team (along with a Haitian nurse and,

on the last mission, a Haitian physician) packs up their

supplies and travels to Paredon, where they treat an

average of 300 people in one day.


a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, has raised more than $90,000. That

money has allowed the organization to set up a school

clinic with a pharmacy; they’ve also hired a full-time Haitian

nurse to staff their clinic and are looking to hire a full-time

Haitian physician so care can continue between visits from

Dr. Kerschl and his volunteers.

Dr. Kerschl also reports that each mission benefits more

and more Haitians and their families. “We usually see about

250 people over four days, but during our last trip [in April

2012], we saw well over 1,200 people!” he says. “Every time

we go, it grows and gets bigger and bigger.”

Getting more than they give

Dr. Kerschl says that each person who goes as a volunteer

experiences it differently, but everyone comes home

feeling changed in some way. “it’s hard to describe,” he says.

“Some are emotional at first, but once they leave they feel

empowered and touched by the things they’ve seen and

the people they’ve met. The experience takes part of your

heart and adds something to it that somehow helps you

understand what’s really important in life.”

Dr. Kerschl fondly remembers a story that particularly

touched him: “An 86-year-old nun who runs a visitation home

in the capital city told us that the night after the earthquake

that hit Port-au-Prince in 2010, she listened off in the distance

and heard songs of hope and of thanking God for saving

Become part of the missionthe rockbridge-haiti medical Alliance is looking for volunteers for future medical mission trips. medical and nonmedical professionals are welcome. for more information, visit www.r-hma.org.

if you can’t make the trip, you can still support the rockbridge-haiti medical Alliance with a donation that will help the organization continue its mission of healing and empowering others. donations can be made online or mailed to Walter kerschl, md, at the rockbridge-haiti medical Alliance, 55 comfort Way, suite 1, lexington, vA 24450.

them. That shows how faithful and appreciative the Haitian

people are, and that’s what makes this such a reward for us.”

Many volunteers have even expressed an interest in

returning on future missions. “i’ve not had anyone who’s

ever come with us say, ‘i don’t want to go back,’ ” says

Dr. Kerschl. Despite a very busy four-day trip, “most are

always rejuvenated and full of a new spirit of hope and

appreciation for all that we have and for all that we can give

to help others.”

OPPOSItE PAGE: WALtER KERSCHL, MD, SPENDS tIME WItH HAItIAN CHILDREN, CARES FOR PAtIENtS AND CELEBRAtES A SuCCESSFuL tRIP WItH FELLOW vOLuNtEERS. tHIS PAGE: DR. KERSCHL AND HIS tEAM OF vOLuNtEERS PREPARE tO LEAvE tHE PEOPLE OF FOND PIERRE AND tRAvEL ALONG tHE MuDDy ROADS tO PORt-Au-PRINCE.


cholesterol type ideal levelsTotal cholesterol Less than 200 mg/dL

HDL (good) cholesterol 50-60 mg/dL or higher

LDL (bad) cholesterol Less than 100 mg/dL

Triglycerides Less than 150 mg/dL

like high blood pressure, unheAlthy levels of

cholesterol hAve A WAy of doing their dAmAge Without

Any WArning signs thAt something’s Amiss. So unless

you’ve been tested to find out your

levels, you may not even know your

cardiovascular system is at risk for

narrowed arteries, heart attacks or

other ailments.

Experts recommend adults get

a simple blood test called a lipid

panel—which measures your total

cholesterol, good HDL cholesterol,

bad LDL cholesterol and triglycerides—beginning at age 20

and repeating about every five years (or more frequently if

your numbers are off ).

But what numbers are you aiming for?

the numbers game

“ideally, you want your total cholesterol levels to be less than

200 mg/dL,” says Augusta Health cardiologist Rodney Graber,

MD. But total cholesterol only offers one part of the picture:

your HDL cholesterol, which removes excess cholesterol

from the bloodstream and keeps it from accumulating on

blood vessel walls, should be at least 50 to 60 mg/dL.

your LDL cholesterol should be less than 100 mg/dL, or

less than 70 mg/dL if you have heart disease or are at risk

for it.

triglycerides—another type of blood fat—should measure

below 150 mg/dL.

What your cholesterol levels mean—and how to control them

taking charge

Cholesterol control typically starts with lifestyle measures,

such as quitting smoking, losing excess pounds, cutting back

on bad fats, concentrating on good fats (monounsaturated

and polyunsaturated) and incorporating more whole grains

into your diet, in addition to more frequent exercise. “Then i

bring them back in after three months and see how they’re

doing,” Dr. Graber says.

if improvements aren’t seen or aren’t significant,

medications such as statins are usually the next step. These

drugs not only lower cholesterol to healthier levels but also

stabilize existing cholesterol buildup (or plaque) and keep it

from rupturing, Dr. Graber says.

RODNEy GRABER, MD

get healthY!dr. graber’s practice, Augusta health cardiology, is located at 70 medical center drive, suite 107 in fishersville, on the Augusta health campus. for more information or to schedule an appointment, call (540) 332-4278.

On the level


pAtients Who need imAging studies noW hAve AdvAnced

technology on their side, thAnks to AugustA heAlth’s

neW spect (single photon emission computed

tomogrAphy) And ct scAnner. The GE Discovery™ NM/CT

670 is the only SPECT/CT scanner of its kind in the area—

and it’s already improving the patient experience with

exceptional image quality and patient comfort.

How it works

“Our new scanner is a unique system—the next generation

in hybrid SPECT,” says Rader Dod, RT-R, director of radiology

at Augusta Health. A two-in-one scanner, it includes a

nuclear all-digital camera fused with an 8-slice CT scanner.

“The nuclear medicine component shows how the organs

function, while the CT component shows the anatomical

positioning,” explains Sheila Brown, supervisor of nuclear

medicine and PET-CT services at Augusta Health.

The scanner is used to help diagnose a variety of

conditions, including those of the heart and certain cancers.

“For example, we can see the walls of the heart much clearer,

and it can help us determine where a tumor is located and if

it’s spread,” says Brown.

A plus for patients

Augusta Health’s previous SPECT/CT scanner wasn’t digital;

in contrast, Brown says, “Our new scanner produces all-digital

images, which will enhance our ability to diagnose and do so

much earlier in the disease process.”

The scanner’s advanced robotics make it possible to

perform multiple actions quickly and at once, which shortens

overall imaging time. “This, in turn, improves patient comfort,

which also reduces anxiety,” Brown says, adding that CT scans

can be performed in less than one minute.

Another benefit for patients is the larger table weight,

which can accommodate larger patients. “Whereas in the

past, the images weren’t as clear for these patients, now we

can provide high-quality imaging for them,” Dod notes.

A new viewNew SPeCT/CT scanner provides patient-friendly, state-of-the-art imaging

where image is eVerYthing!the next time you need imaging services, you can feel confident in Augusta health’s high-quality, convenient care. to learn more, visit www.augustahealth.com/radiology.

the accreditation advantageAugusta Health is proud to have received another

three-year Gold Seal Accreditation in magnetic

resonance imaging (MRi) from the American College of

Radiology (ACR), a national professional organization

serving more than 34,000 diagnostic and interventional

radiologists, radiation oncologists, nuclear medicine

physicians and medical physicists. This accreditation

is awarded to facilities that meet the ACR’s stringent

guidelines for image quality and patient safety.

››

RADER DOD, Rt-R, AND SHEILA BROWN

WItH AuGuStA HEALtH’S NEW

SPECt/Ct SCANNER


Augusta health lifetime fitness group classes and screeningsNonmembers may purchase a 10-classpass for $100. Classes run on anongoing basis. Other classes not listedhere can be found on our website atwww.augustahealth.com/lifetime-fitness.For more information, call Sharon Stiteler of Lifetime Fitness at (540) 332-5571.

yOGA CLASSESBasic: Mondays, 5:30 p.m.; Tuesdays, 9 a.m.Intermediate: Thursdays, 8:45 a.m.

tAI CHICancer Recovery: Tuesdays, 6:45 p.m.Free to cancer recovery patients; sponsored by Augusta Health Cancer CenterArthritis and Diabetes: Tuesdays,11:15 a.m.Beginner: Wednesdays, 11:15 a.m.Intermediate: Thursdays, 11:15 a.m.Advanced: Tuesdays, 7:30 p.m.

CHI KuNGIntermediate: Tuesdays, 10:15 a.m.Advanced: Thursdays, 10:15 a.m.

LES MILLS BODy COMBAtMondays, 5:30 p.m.; Tuesdays, 4:30 p.m.; Wednesdays, 9 a.m.; Fridays, 5:15 a.m.; alternate Saturdays, 9 a.m.

MARtIAL ARtSExtra fee, class passes excluded

Beginner: Mondays and Wednesdays,7–8 p.m.Intermediate: Mondays andWednesdays, 8–9 p.m.Cost: $55 a month for members,$90 for nonmembers

AquAtIC CLASSESAqua Power: Mondays, Tuesdays andFridays, 7:45 a.m.; Tuesdays and Fridays,9 a.m.; Mondays, 4:45 p.m.; Thursdays, 4:45–5:30 p.m. (Fitness Pool)Aqua Express: Wednesdays, 7:45 a.m. Deep Water Conditioning: Mondays andThursdays, 9 a.m. (Fitness Pool)Aqua Bootcamp: Mondays, 5:45 p.m., Fridays, 9 a.m. (Fitness Pool)

tHERAPEutIC/REHABILItAtIvE

AquAtIC CLASSESAqua Lite: Mondays and Fridays, 9 a.m. and 10 a.m.; Tuesdays and Thursdays, 9 a.m. and 10 a.m.; Wednesdays, 4:45 p.m. (Therapy Pool)Range of Motion (ROM): Mondays andFridays, 11 a.m. (Therapy Pool)

zuMBA DANCEMondays, 9:15 a.m.; Tuesdays, 3:45 p.m.;Wednesdays, 5:30 p.m.; Thursdays,12:15 p.m.; Fridays, 7:45 a.m. and 5:30 p.m.

tRX SuSPENSION SMALL GROuP

tRAINING CLASSMondays and Wednesdays, 9 a.m.;Tuesdays and Thursdays, 5:15 a.m.;Wednesdays and Fridays, 12:15 p.m.; Wednesdays, 5:30 p.m.Call: Sharon Stiteler at (540) 332-5571 or

email [email protected] more details; more classes may beavailable

oncology support groupsFor more information about anycancer group, call Leigh Anderson at(540) 245-7105.

FRIENDS LIStENING tO FRIENDS

GROuPFor newly diagnosed cancer patients who have fears, questions or concerns. This group also addresses life after cancer treatments.When: Wednesdays, 4–5 p.m.Where: Augusta Health Cancer CenterConference Room

LEAN ON ME—CAREGIvER

SuPPORt GROuPWhile you‘re taking care of your loved one, don’t forget to take care of yourself.When: Mondays, 4–5 p.m.Where: Augusta Health Cancer Center Conference Room

stroke supportSHENANDOAH vALLEy StROKE CLuBThis support group is for those who have suffered a stroke and their family members, care partners and friends.When: First Friday of every month, noonCall: Shelley Payne at (540) 332-4047 or (540) 932-4047

Happenings at Augusta HealthCalendar of classes and groups


community WellnessGAIN INDEPENDENCE FROM tOBACCOThis six-session smoking and smokeless tobacco cessation program will help you examine why you use tobacco and create an individual quit plan. The instructor uses evidence-based guidelines and is a Certified Tobacco Treatment Specialist.When: Winter classes will begin the second week of January, 6–7:30 p.m.Call: (540) 332-4988 for more information

yOu CAN! LIvE WELL, AuGuStA!if you are living with a chronic illness (asthma, arthritis, diabetes, heart disease, hypertension, etc.), join our Community Wellness educators for a six-session workshop to help you explore effective ways to manage your condition and take charge of your life. No charge; all community members welcome.When: Winter session begins the second week of January. Classes will tentatively be held either 1–3:30 p.m. or 6–8:30 p.m., pending interest.Call: (540) 332-4192 or (540) 332-4988 for more information

LIvE WELL, WItH DIABEtES!Diabetes is a very challenging disease. Come join this six-week program, led by Community Wellness nurse educators, to help you better care for yourself or a loved one. Parents, spouses and caregivers can benefit from the class and are also encouraged to attend. Sessions reinforce healthy eating and exercise, but managing stress, fear, frustration, pain, fatigue, depression and other challenges are at the heart of this program. No charge; all community members welcome.When: Please call for information on the winter session. Call: (540) 332-4192 or (540) 332-4988 for more information

Now is the time to prepare for Winter

57 North Medical Park DriveSuite 109

Fishersville, VA 22939(540) 941-2531

www.augustahealth.comFind us on Facebook

• FraxelRestoreandFraxel CO2Repair• ThermageCPT• PhotoRejuvenationLasers• BotoxCosmeticandDysport• Fillers-Restylane,Juvederm, Radiesse,Sculptra• Microdermabrasion/ Hydrafacial• Spiderveintreatments- Sclerotherapy,Laser• Productstoimproves kintone,texture, andfadebrownspots

Discover what our triple-board certified Dermatologist, Kristen Savola, MD can do for you.

Restore, rejuvenate and repair your skin to its youthful glow.

GiftCertificatesAvailableonline

forspa&cosmeticservices

Continued on page 24 »


Continued from page 23 »

Happenings at Augusta Health

SMARt SIttERSThis babysitting class for adolescents ages 12 and older includes infant and child care. First aid and family and friends CPR are also covered.When: Next class will be held at the end of the school year in June, 8 a.m.– 4:30 p.m., but call today to reserve your spot.Call: (540) 332-4190

LIvING A FuLFILLED LIFE

WItH HEARt FAILuREThis two-session program helps participants learn sign and symptom management of heart failure, medication management and much more. it’s for people with and at risk for heart failure and their caregivers and loved ones.When: First and third Wednesdays of every month; times rotate each month: 11 a.m.–12:30 p.m. or 6–7:30 p.m.Call: (540) 332-4190

COPD EDuCAtIONAL CLASSis your shortness of breath due to getting older or something more serious? We will offer an educational class on COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease) beginning in 2013.Call: (540) 332-4190

Augusta health dietitiansCELIAC SPRuE SuPPORt GROuPGroup meetings feature free samples of gluten-free foods, recipes from support group members, visits from food-service providers and a wealth of practical tips.When: Third Tuesday of every othermonth, Jan. 15; 5–7 p.m.Where: Augusta Health CommunityCare Building, rooms 1 and 2Call: Laura Johnson, RD, at (540) 932-5034

Augusta health hospice of the shenandoahLIvING At tHE END OF LIFE—

HOSPICE vOLuNtEER tRAININGAre you interested in becoming a hospice volunteer and making a difference? Our next training session will begin in March 2013.Call: Lori Showalter, Hospice Volunteer Coordinator, at (540) 932-4904 or [email protected]

HEARt tO HEARt—

GRIEF SuPPORt GROuPif someone you love has died and you’dlike the “heart to heart” support of others who’ve also lost someone, we invite you to attend our support group. We understand this is a very difficult time in your life. Talking and sharing with others going through a similar experience can provide tremendous support and be extremely helpful in learning how to cope and live with your grief. Support groups are open to the community and provided free of charge.When: New groups begin throughout the yearWhere: Augusta Health CommunityCare BuildingCall: For more information and startingdates, contact Debbie Brown, Hospiceof the Shenandoah, BereavementCoordinator, at (540) 932-4911 or [email protected]

sleep disordersSLEEP APNEA SuPPORt GROuP—

AWAKE (ALERt, WELL, AND KEEPING

ENERGEtIC)Representatives from the Sleep Center and Care Home Medical will answer questions about sleep and common sleep disorders.When: Third Monday; quarterly basis

Where: Augusta Health CommunityCare BuildingCall: (540) 932-4169 for moreinformation

diabetes educationtyPE 1 DIABEtES SuPPORt GROuPNo charge, open to the public.When: First Thursday of every month,6:30–7:30 p.m.Where: Augusta Health Community Care BuildingCall: (540) 213-2537 or (540) 941-2537for more information

tyPE 2 DIABEtES SuPPORt GROuPHave questions about diabetes and need answers? Learn and share with other people with diabetes. Topics will be centered around learning to manage your diabetes. No charge, open to the public.When: Fourth Monday of most months, 5:30–6:30 p.m.Where: Augusta Health Community Care BuildingCall: (540) 213-2537 or (540) 941-2537for more information

tyPE 2 DIABEtES CLASS SERIESA monthly three-class series recognized by the American Diabetes Association will help with your daily management of type 2 diabetes. Topics include prevention steps, meal planning and medications. Classes are offered at various times and days of the week.Call: (540) 213-2537 or (540) 941-2537for more information

PRE-DIABEtES CLASSThis class is for people diagnosed with pre-diabetes. The focus is on how to slow the progression to type 2 diabetes by making healthy lifestyle changes.Call: (540) 213-2537 or (540) 941-2537for information about class dates and times


ostomy support groupAuGuStA HEALtH DIvERSIONS—

ASSIStING yOu FOLLOWING

OStOMy SuRGERyin this group meeting, you’ll share ideas and improve your quality of life after ostomy surgery.When: Second Monday of every other month, 6–8 p.m. Where: Augusta Health Community Care Building, Room 2Call: (540) 332-4346 for details

Augusta health lifetime fitness tennis program scheduleADuLt 1*2*3 tENNISAges 18 and olderLearn how to play, improve skills andpractice.When: Thursdays, 6–7:30 p.m.Session 10: Dec. 6–27Session 11: Jan. 10–31Session 12: Feb. 21–March 14Session 13: March 28–April 18Session 14: May 2–23Cost: $65 per session

ADuLt CARDIO tENNISAges 18 and older This “workout” tennis program is sure to leave you energized.When: Mondays, 6:15–7:15 p.m.;Wednesdays, 10:15–11:15 a.m.Session 3: Mon., Jan. 7–Feb. 11Session 3: Wed., Jan. 9–Feb. 13Session 4: Mon., Feb. 25–April 1Session 4: Wed., Feb. 27–April 3Session 5: Mon., April 15–May 20Session 5: Wed., April 17–May 22Cost: $60 per session

MuNCHKIN tENNISAges 4–6 Ages 10 and under tennis format. A great introduction to tennis for the little ones!When: Saturdays, 9–9:45 a.m.Session 3: Dec. 1–22Session 4: Jan. 5–Feb. 16Session 5: March 2–April 6

Session 6: April 13–May 18Cost: $50 per session

FutuRE StARSAges 7–10 (10 and under tennis format)Skill building and play for “future” players.When: Saturdays, 9:45–11 a.m.Session 3: Dec. 1–22Session 4: Jan. 5–Feb. 16Session 5: March 2–April 6Session 6: April 13–May 18Cost: $75 per session

RISING StARSAges 11–15Learn to play through competitive drills and games.When: Saturdays,11 a.m.–12:15 p.m.Session 3: Dec. 1–22Session 4: Jan. 5–Feb. 16Session 5: March 2–April 6Session 6: April 13–May 18Cost: $75 per session

ACESAges 12–17Competitive and high-school player training.

When: Saturdays, 12:15–1:45 p.m.Session 3: Dec. 1–22Session 4: Jan. 5–Feb. 16Session 5: March 2–April 6Session 6: April 13–May 18Cost: $108 per session

CIRCuIt ACESAges 12–17Competitive and high-school player training.When: Tuesdays and Thursdays, 4:30–6 p.m.Session 3: Nov. 20–Dec. 20Session 4: Jan. 8–Feb. 14Session 5: Feb. 19–April 4Session 6: April 9–May 16Cost: $216 per session

Times and fees for all programs are subject to change. For more information, call Chad Reed, Tennis Coordinator/Pro, at (540) 332-5280 or email [email protected].

Registration forms can be found at www.augustahealth.com/ lifetime-fitness.

Walmart Super Centers – Staunton 540-213-0277 & Waynesboro 540-949-9315

Prompt Convenient Care!

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NEW HEALtHCARE PROvIDERS

At Augusta Health, recruiting experienced, dedicated providers for your healthcare is one of our top priorities. These generalists and specialists can help keep you and your family

healthy. We’d like to introduce you to our new physicians and allied health professionals.

ALEXANDER BAER, MD

emergency medicine medical school: university of Virginia residency and fellowship: university of Virginiapractice: Augusta Emergency Physicians

jO ANN BOND, FNP

emergency medicine/primary careundergraduate and graduate education: James Madison universitypractice: Augusta Emergency Physicians

jAMISON CHANG, MD

internal medicinemedical school and residency: university of Virginiapractice: Staunton Medical Associates

ALLISON CHuPP, FNP

family practiceundergraduate education: Eastern Mennonite universitygraduate education: James Madison university practice: Augusta Health Pain Management Clinic

BARBARA FENtON, MD

internal medicinemedical school and residency: George Washington universitypractice: Augusta Health internal Medicine

RENzO FIGARI jORDAN, MD

neurologymedical school: universidad Peruana Cayetano Herediaresidency: Henry Ford Hospitalfellowship: university of Marylandpractice: Shenandoah Valley Neurological

R. CHRIStOPHER HARMON, MD, PhD

gastroenterologymedical school: Marshall university School of Medicineresidency and fellowship: university of VirginiaAdvanced fellowship: Virginia Tech Carilion School of Medicinepractice: Augusta Health Gastroenterology

LISA HILE, MD

emergency medicinemedical school: university of Marylandresidency: C.R. Danrall Army Medical Center-Fort Hoodpractice: Augusta Emergency Physicians

PAtRICK HENRy juDSON, MD

hematology/oncologymedical school: George Washington universityresidency: Tripler Army Medical Centerfellowship: Walter Reed Army Medical Centerpractice: Augusta Health Cancer Center



✂

DAvID KRIEGER, DO

occupational medicinemedical school: Kirksville College of Osteopathic Medicineresidency: Brooks Air Force Basegraduate school: Harvard universitypractice: Augusta Health Occupational Medicine

MICHAEL LAyNE, MD

hospitalist medicinemedical school: Medical College of Virginia at VCuresidency: Eastern Virginia Medical Schoolpractice: Augusta Health Hospitalists

P. MICHAEL MARSHALL, PhD, ANP-C

hematology/oncologyundergraduate education: Eastern Mennonite Collegegraduate and post-graduate education: university of Virginiapractice: Augusta Health Cancer Center

SHANIquE PALMER, MD

hematology/oncologymedical school: university of the West indiesresidency and fellowship: Mayo Clinicpractice: Augusta Health Cancer Center

BRIAN StISSER, MD

urologymedical school and residency: Georgetown universitypractice: Blue Ridge urological Associates

WILLIAM tHIStLEtHWAItE, MD

hospitalist medicinemedical school: university of Chicagoresidency: university of Virginiapractice: Augusta Health Hospitalists

jEFFERy tuRNER, MD

emergency medicinemedical school: East Tennessee State universityresidency: university of Louisvillepractice: Augusta Emergency Physicians

AMANDA WILSON, FNP

emergency medicineundergraduate education: Eastern Mennonite Collegegraduate education: James Madison universitypractice: Augusta Emergency Physicians

MAttHEW yODER, FNP-C

nurse practitioner–ed and convenient care clinicsundergraduate and graduate education: James Madison universitypractice: Augusta Emergency Physicians

find the right phYsician! if you or a family member needs a primary care or specialty physician, visit www.augustahealth.com and click on “find a physician.”


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Augusta Health Matters is published by Augusta Health. the articles in this publication should not be considered specific medical advice, as each individual circumstance is different. Entire publication © 2012 Augusta Health. All rights reserved. For more information or to be removed from or added to this mailing list, please call (540) 332-4969 or visit www.augustahealth.com.

Helping our community GROWLocal organizations get support through grants from Augusta Health

helping the community is importAnt to AugustA

heAlth, And one of the mAny WAys thAt goAl is being

Accomplished is through multiyeAr grAnts for locAl

nonprofit orgAnizAtions. The grants are awarded over a

period of two to three years, and recipients may receive up

to $20,000 per year.

A healthy community

Many aspects are considered when evaluating grant

proposals, but one thing’s certain: The organization must

impact the community. “We want a project that will have a

positive impact on the health of the community,” says Linda

Gail Johnson, RN, BSN, MPH, director of community wellness

at Augusta Health, “and we really look for collaboration and

partnering.”

Project GROWS

One such organization is Project GROWS. Formed two years

ago, Project GROWS seeks to combat childhood obesity

through hands-on education. Children learn about healthy

food and food production by working a 10-acre farm.

Project GROWS began as a collaborative project of nine

nonprofit agencies; it’s now a standalone 501(c)(3) nonprofit

led by a board of directors.

PROjECt GROWS PROvIDES CHILDREN WItH A HANDS-ON WAy tO LEARN ABOut FOOD PRODuCtION AND MAKING SMARt FOOD CHOICES.››

winter - augusta health

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