Navicent Health

Health Fair for Men Addresses Physical and Mental Health Concerns
Rehabilitation Hospital, Navicent Health Celebrates 30 Years of Service
Healthy Dates Calendar for October, 2018
Navicent Health Baldwin Congratulates Samuel M. Goodrich, M.D. Endowed Healthcare Scholarship Recipients
Mark Singletary to Represent Healthcare Engineers at National Level
Ophthalmology, Navicent Health Recognizes September as Healthy Aging Month
Exploring the Connection Between Yoga and the Heart
Navicent Health Now Offering Infusion Pump Connected to Patients Electronic Medical Record
Seventeen Leading Health Systems Join Forces to Transform Care for Vulnerable Populations
Navicent Health Recognizes August as National Breastfeeding Awareness Month

Navicent Health Awards Don Faulk Teen Volunteer Scholarships

August 15, 2017 4:49 pm

August 16, 2017 10:49 am

On Tuesday, August 15, Navicent Health presented the 2017 Don Faulk Teen Volunteer Scholarship to three teen volunteers. The following recipients each received awards:

$1,000 scholarship â Aisis Hull

Rutland High School (Bibb County)

425 hours at Heart Center, Navicent Health)

$500 scholarship â Naomi Neria

Westside High School (Bibb County)

307 hours of service at The Medical Center, Navicent Health

$500 scholarship â Samantha Tillman

Houston County High School (Houston County)

192 hours of service at Medical Center of Peach County, Navicent Health

The scholarships are awarded to students who have volunteered their time at Navicent Health through the health systemâs Teen Volunteer Program. Teens accepted into the program commit to volunteer for a minimum of six months, giving no less than 100 hours of total service. Scholarships, named in honor of former CEO Don Faulk, are funded through The Medical Center, Navicent Health Auxiliary.

Applications for the 2018 Teen Volunteer Program are available September 1, 2017 - January 31, 2018. The program assists teens from throughout central Georgia with interest in the healthcare field. Teen volunteers must be at least 16 years of age. Those interested in applying for the Teen Volunteer Program should contact Navicent Healthâs Office of Public Relations at (478) 633-1353.

In the attached photo (L-R): Naomi Neria, Don Faulk and Aisis Hull. Not pictured, Samantha Tillman.

About Navicent Health

Navicent Health was incorporated on November 17, 1994, as a nonprofit corporation whose primary purpose is to coordinate the Medical Center, Navicent Health and other affiliated entities in their mission of providing a comprehensive continuum of high quality, reasonably priced healthcare services to the region. Navicent Health has 830 beds for medical, surgical, rehabilitation and hospice purposes. The health system includes The Medical Center, Navicent Health, a nationally recognized tertiary teaching hospital; Childrenâs Hospital, Navicent Health, the regionâs only dedicated pediatric hospital; Medical Center of Peach County, Navicent Health, a rural critical access hospital; Rehabilitation Hospital, Navicent Health, the regionâs oldest and most experienced rehabilitation provider; Pine Pointe, Navicent Health, which provides palliative and hospice care in homes and in its facility; Carlyle Place, Navicent Health, the areaâs first continuing care retirement community; Navicent Health Foundation, the philanthropic arm of Navicent Health; as well as diagnostic and home care services. For more information, please visit www.navicenthealth.org.

publicrelations@navicenthealth.org

Jason Aldean Raises $700K for Beverly Knight Olson Children's Hospital, Navicent Health

August 11, 2017 4:20 pm

August 14, 2017 4:20 pm

Two-time and reigning ACM "Entertainer of the Year" Jason Aldean returned to his hometown of Macon, GA to a sold out crowd for his second Concert For The Kids on Friday (8/11) with special guest Luke Combs, local emerging talent Maggie Renfroe and radio station WDEN-FM winner Trey Teem, raising $702,209.43 for Beverly Knight Olson Children’s Hospital, Navicent Health.

After garnering more than half a million dollars at last year’s intimate stripped-down performance, Aldean has now raised over $1.2 million to benefit the development of Macon's new Children's Hospital, the region’s only dedicated pediatric facility serving central and south Georgia, that enhances the lives of children through patient care, research and education. Beforehand, the multi-PLATINUM entertainer spent the afternoon with patients and families at the current facility, reviewed plans for the new addition and was honored with the reveal of "Jason Aldean Way,” the renaming of a portion of the street that runs alongside the Children’s Hospital.

“We are so very appreciative of Jason’s continued support for our patients at Beverly Knight Olson Children’s Hospital, Navicent Health, " added Ninfa M. Saunders, DHA FACHE, President and CEO of Navicent Health. "Jason is a hometown hero who is truly giving back to our young patients and their families. We are most appreciative of his commitment to their healing and care.”

“Macon will always be my roots,” said Aldean. “When I moved away to chase music, all I wanted to do was make my family and hometown proud. But, I’m just a singer. I’m honored to be able to do do what I do to help raise money, but the doctors and staff are the heroes and are changing these kids lives.”

“Country music's hard-rocking everyman” is “the mirror image of his fans” (Rolling Stone) as his most recent album THEY DON'T KNOW follows each album release earning PLATINUM certification or better, tallying more than 15 million total album sales and 19 No. One hits. The longevity of his career reached new heights as he debuted at the No. One position on Billboard’s all-genre Top 200 Album chart for the third consecutive time. In addition to his THEY DON”T KNOW TOUR, the "reigning Entertainer of the Year shows why he holds the title” (Newsday) as the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum showcases a special exhibit Jason Aldean: Asphalt Cowboy, commemorating his wide-open sound that has been one of the defining influences on today’s Country Music. For more information and for a full list of upcoming tour dates, www.jasonaldean.com.

Since 1987, the nonprofit Beverly Knight Olson Children’s Hospital, Navicent Health has been committed to enhancing the lives of children through excellence in patient care, research and education. The only dedicated pediatric facility in central Georgia, and one of the most comprehensive in the state, the hospital has provided care in general pediatrics, pediatric critical care, neonatal intensive care and outpatient services. The hospital also serves as the primary teaching site for the Department of Pediatrics at the Mercer University School of Medicine. Navicent Health is currently constructing a new Children’s Hospital facility to expand services and capabilities to meet the specific needs of the region’s children. Navicent Health plans to begin serving the region’s patients in 2019.

Photo Credit: Courtesy of Getty Images' Rick Diamond
Check Presentation (L-R): President and CEO of Navicent Health, Ninfa M. Saunders, Jason Aldean, Chief Development Officer of Navicent Health Foundation, Ellen J. Terrell

publicrelations@navicenthealth.org

Sepsis Collaborative Saves Georgia Hospitals Over $3.7 Million

August 24, 2017 3:31 pm

August 24, 2017 3:31 pm

Vizient MidSouth Sepsis collaborative members, including Navicent Health, celebrate their achievements over the past year, including over $3.7 million in savings/cost avoidance.

“Each member of the collaborative has worked to make improvements within its own organization to effectively prevent, identify, treat and manage sepsis and septic shock. We are pleased with the work taking place at Navicent Health to prevent sepsis, and congratulate our team on this well-deserved award,” said Linda Pender, Sepsis Benefits Realization Coordinator for The Medical Center, Navicent Health.

Comprised of nine member organizations, participants had the opportunity to collaborate on a regional and national level. Members learned from subject matter experts, shared knowledge and received individual on-site support from Vizient MidSouth performance improvement staff on process flow mapping, project management and coaching calls. Additionally, participants received a comparative dashboard focused on average length of stay (ALOS), mortality and national benchmarks.

For 2016, the collaborative reported over $3.7 million in savings/cost avoidance. While all members of the collaborative contributed to the overall number, the top three members that submitted data, consistently participated and produced significant documented value included DeKalb Medical (Hillandale and North Decatur); The Medical Center, Navicent Health; and Piedmont Athens Regional.

“Our team has worked diligently to minimize the threat of sepsis for our patients, providers and payors. We are incredibly pleased with their efforts and honored to be named one of the top hospitals in the state in the fight against sepsis,” said Crespo.

Sepsis, the human body’s overwhelming response to infection, is a life-threatening condition that can lead to tissue damage, organ failure, and even death.

It is important for healthcare providers, as well as members of the community, to know the signs and symptoms of sepsis. These may include shivering and fever, extreme pain or discomfort, clammy and sweaty skin, confusion and disorientation, shortness of breath and high heart rate. Certain individuals are particularly at risk for developing sepsis, including those who have recently had a lung infection such as pneumonia, a urinary tract infection (UTI), a gut infection or a skin infection.

About Vizient MidSouth

Vizient MidSouth is a membership alliance for not-for-profit health care providers that exists to ensure its members deliver cost-effective care by connecting them with the knowledge, solutions and expertise that accelerate performance.

About Navicent Health

Navicent Health was incorporated on November 17, 1994, as a nonprofit corporation whose primary purpose is to coordinate the Medical Center, Navicent Health and other affiliated entities in their mission of providing a comprehensive continuum of high quality, reasonably priced healthcare services to the region. Navicent Health has 830 beds for medical, surgical, rehabilitation and hospice purposes. The health system includes The Medical Center, Navicent Health, a nationally recognized tertiary teaching hospital; Children’s Hospital, Navicent Health, the region’s only dedicated pediatric hospital; Medical Center of Peach County, Navicent Health, a rural critical access hospital; Rehabilitation Hospital, Navicent Health, the region’s oldest and most experienced rehabilitation provider; Pine Pointe, Navicent Health, which provides palliative and hospice care in homes and in its facility; Carlyle Place, Navicent Health, the area’s first continuing care retirement community; Navicent Health Foundation, the philanthropic arm of Navicent Health; as well as diagnostic and home care services. For more information, please visit www.navicenthealth.org.

publicrelations@navicenthealth.org

Navicent Health President and CEO Dr. Ninfa M. Saunders, FACHE, Elected to Georgia Hospital Association Board of Trustees

August 9, 2017 11:31 am

August 9, 2017 11:31 am

ATLANTA – Dr. Ninfa M. Saunders, FACHE, president and chief executive officer (CEO) of Navicent Health in Macon, was elected to the Board of Trustees of the Georgia Hospital Association (GHA). Dr. Saunders will serve as an at-large trustee, where her duties will include working with the Board to develop strategies for GHA hospital members, advocate for the highest quality care for patients, and support adequate reimbursement for hospitals.

Dr. Saunders has served as CEO since 2012, where she oversees the operations of Navicent Health, a nonprofit corporation whose primary purpose is to coordinate The Medical Center, Navicent Health and other affiliated entities in their mission of providing a comprehensive continuum of high quality, reasonably priced healthcare services to the region. Navicent Health has 830 beds for medical, surgical, rehabilitation and hospice purposes. The health system includes The Medical Center, Navicent Health, a nationally recognized tertiary teaching hospital; Beverly Knight Olson Children’s Hospital, Navicent Health, the region’s only dedicated pediatric hospital; Medical Center of Peach County, Navicent Health, a rural critical access hospital; Rehabilitation Hospital, Navicent Health, the region’s oldest and most experienced rehabilitation provider; Pine Pointe, Navicent Health, which provides palliative and hospice care in homes and in its facility; Carlyle Place, Navicent Health, the area’s first continuing care retirement community; Navicent Health Foundation, the philanthropic arm of Navicent Health; as well as diagnostic and home care services.

Her accomplishments in this position include developing successful partnerships with rural hospitals across Central Georgia to create medical neighborhoods and improving access to care for underserved populations by working closely with the Georgia General Assembly to inform public policy.
Prior to serving as CEO, Dr. Saunders was the president and chief operating officer (COO) of Virtua Health in Marlton, N.J. In this position, she was responsible for overseeing all health services of the system including the hospitals, physician organization, ambulatory centers, home care and rehab hospitals.

“Dr. Saunders brings exceptionally diverse knowledge and experience to the GHA Board,” said GHA President and CEO Earl Rogers. “She is an outstanding leader who has effected positive change within the health care community, both locally and statewide. We look forward to her service.”

A Fellow of the American College of Healthcare Executives, Dr. Saunders completed her Doctorate in Healthcare Administration at the Medical University of South Carolina in Charleston, S.C. She earned a Master of Business Administration from Emory University in Atlanta and a Master of Science in Nursing from Rutgers University in Newark, N.J. Her extensive involvement in the community includes serving as Chair of the American Hospital Association, Institute for Diversity and serving on the Presidential Advisory Council of Thomas Jefferson University and Jefferson Health in Philadelphia, Pa. She also serves on the advisory council of Emory University in Atlanta and is a Distinguished Faculty at the Mercer University School of Medicine in Macon.

About GHA
Founded in 1929, GHA serves more than 170 hospitals in Georgia and promotes the health and welfare of the public through the development of better hospital care for all Georgia’s citizens. The mission of GHA is to advance the health of individuals and communities by serving as the leading advocate for all Georgia hospitals and health care systems. GHA represents its members before the General Assembly and Congress, as well as state and federal regulatory agencies, and is an allied member of the American Hospital Association. For more information, please call 770-249-4500 or visit gha.org.

publicrelations@navicenthealth.org

Navicent Health Experts Conduct Stop The Bleed Training for Bibb Educators

July 26, 2017 1:36 pm

August 24, 2017 3:36 pm

On Wednesday, July 26 trauma care experts from Navicent Health conducted “Stop The Bleed” training for almost 300 educators and administrators from Bibb County schools. In the coming months, physicians, nurses, emergency medical service (EMS) personnel and public health officials statewide hope to provide Stop The Bleed training to educators in more than 2,000 Georgia schools. The Bibb County School District is the first in the 23-county central Georgia region to receive the training.

Navicent Health physicians, working in conjunction with local first responders and clinicians, prepared course participants to provide basic trauma care in the event a student or coworker is injured. During three sessions at Central Georgia Technical College on Wednesday, trauma professionals – led by Navicent Health – instructed educators on the following topics:

Caregiver safety

Bleeding control techniques

Ongoing care of the injured person

Interacting with first responders

During hands-on exercises, participants learned to dress wounds, apply tourniquets, and utilize small trauma kits provided by the Georgia Trauma Commission.

“The skills learned in the Stop the Bleed training are a vital component in the school district’s efforts to provide a safe learning environment for students, faculty and staff,” said David Gowan, Director of Safety and Security for the Bibb County School District.

Stop the Bleed is a national initiative of the American College of Surgeons and Hartford Consensus. The program provides bystanders of emergency situations with the expertise to stop life-threatening bleeding until first responders arrive. In February, the Georgia Trauma Commission requested funding to support the Stop the Bleed Campaign in Georgia’s public school system by providing each public school in the state with a bleeding control kit.

“Our goal is to provide life-saving education and equip our school classrooms, educators and school administrators with bleeding control kits, along with education and training to fully equip individuals with the necessary skills to save a life,” said Dennis W. Ashley, MD, Director of Trauma Services and Critical Care for MCNH.

Uncontrolled bleeding injuries can result from natural and manmade disasters and accidents. Severe bleeding may claim a life within minutes, potentially before first responders arrive on scene. Providing bystanders with knowledge of the steps to take to stop uncontrolled bleeding, and providing the public access to bleeding control kits, can save lives.

“Research has shown that bystanders with little or no medical training can heroically save a life if equipped with the right knowledge. This is seen in incidents where bystanders use CPR training or automatic defibrillators until help arrives. We firmly believe this program has the ability to help people save lives in the event of an emergency situation. We are privileged to partner with the Bibb County Board of Education and Central Georgia Technical College to offer this training day,” said Dr. Ashley.

The Medical Center, Navicent Health is one of only two nationally-verified Level I trauma center in the state.

About Navicent Health

Navicent Health was incorporated on November 17, 1994, as a nonprofit corporation whose primary purpose is to coordinate the Medical Center, Navicent Health and other affiliated entities in their mission of providing a comprehensive continuum of high quality, reasonably priced healthcare services to the region. Navicent Health has 830 beds for medical, surgical, rehabilitation and hospice purposes. The health system includes The Medical Center, Navicent Health, a nationally recognized tertiary teaching hospital; Children’s Hospital, Navicent Health, the region’s only dedicated pediatric hospital; Medical Center of Peach County, Navicent Health, a rural critical access hospital; Rehabilitation Hospital, Navicent Health, the region’s oldest and most experienced rehabilitation provider; Pine Pointe, Navicent Health, which provides palliative and hospice care in homes and in its facility; Carlyle Place, Navicent Health, the area’s first continuing care retirement community; Navicent Health Foundation, the philanthropic arm of Navicent Health; as well as diagnostic and home care services. For more information, please visit www.navicenthealth.org.

publicrelations@navicenthealth.org

Celebrate DQ Miracle Treat Day with Childrens Hospital, Navicent Health on July 27

July 24, 2017 3:47 pm

August 24, 2017 3:47 pm

Buying a Blizzard® treat at participating central Georgia Dairy Queens® on Thursday, July 27 - Miracle Treat Day® - will benefit Beverly Knight Olson Children’s Hospital, Navicent Health, a Children’s Miracle Network Hospital®

At least $1 per Blizzard® purchased nationwide on Thursday, July 27 will be donated to Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals®. Donations will remain local in order to fund critical treatments, health services and pediatric medical equipment.

“At least $1 from each Blizzard treat purchased in participating central Georgia Dairy Queen locations will be contributed to Children’s Miracle Network, with 100 percent of the funds raised throughout central Georgia benefiting Beverly Knight Olson Children’s Hospital, Navicent Health. Last year, our local Dairy Queens raised more than $44,000 for our children through this event,” said Haley Vann, Children’s Miracle Network Coordinator for Beverly Knight Olson Children’s Hospital, Navicent Health and Navicent Health Foundation.

To help celebrate Miracle Treat Day, fans are encouraged to use #MiracleTreatDay on social media and invite others to join them in visiting a participating DQ location on Thursday, July 27. To find a participating local Dairy Queen®, please visit www.miracletreatday.com.

Since 1983, Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals has raised more than $5 billion—most of it $1 at a time—for 170 children’s hospitals across the United States and Canada, which, in turn, use the money where it’s needed the most. These donations have gone to support research and training, purchase equipment, and pay for uncompensated care, all to save and improve the lives of as many children as possible. Since 1984, Dairy Queen® has raised more than $125 million for Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals.

About Navicent Health

Navicent Health was incorporated on November 17, 1994, as a nonprofit corporation whose primary purpose is to coordinate the Medical Center, Navicent Health and other affiliated entities in their mission of providing a comprehensive continuum of high quality, reasonably priced healthcare services to the region. Navicent Health has 830 beds for medical, surgical, rehabilitation and hospice purposes. The health system includes The Medical Center, Navicent Health, a nationally recognized tertiary teaching hospital; Children’s Hospital, Navicent Health, the region’s only dedicated pediatric hospital; Medical Center of Peach County, Navicent Health, a rural critical access hospital; Rehabilitation Hospital, Navicent Health, the region’s oldest and most experienced rehabilitation provider; Pine Pointe, Navicent Health, which provides palliative and hospice care in homes and in its facility; Carlyle Place, Navicent Health, the area’s first continuing care retirement community; Navicent Health Foundation, the philanthropic arm of Navicent Health; as well as diagnostic and home care services. For more information, please visit www.navicenthealth.org.

About IDQ

International Dairy Queen Inc., (IDQ), based in Minneapolis, Minnesota, is the parent company of American Dairy Queen Corporation. Through its subsidiaries, IDQ develops, licenses and services a system of more than 6,700 locations in the United States, Canada and more than 25 other countries. IDQ is a subsidiary of Berkshire Hathaway Inc. (Berkshire) which is led by Warren Buffett, the legendary investor and CEO of Berkshire. For more information visit DairyQueen.com.

About Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals:

Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals® raises funds and awareness for 170 member hospitals that provide 32 million treatments each year to kids across the U.S. and Canada. Donations stay local to fund critical treatments and healthcare services, pediatric medical equipment and charitable care. Since 1983, Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals has raised more than $5 billion, most of it $1 at a time through the charity's Miracle Balloon icon. Its various fundraising partners and programs support the nonprofit’s mission to save and improve the lives of as many children as possible. Find out why children’s hospitals need community support, identify your member hospital and learn how you can Put Your Money Where the Miracles Are, at CMNHospitals.org and facebook.com/CMNHospitals.

publicrelations@navicenthealth.org

Navicent Health Commits to Uphold Healthy Food in Healthcare Pledge

July 25, 2017 3:41 pm

August 24, 2017 3:41 pm

Navicent Health representatives have signed the international Healthy Food in Healthcare pledge, committing – along with its food service partner Morrison Healthcare – to uphold the following promises:

Work with local farmers, community-based organizations and food suppliers to increase the availability of locally-sourced food.

Encourage vendors to supply food that is, among other attributes, produced without synthetic pesticides and hormones or antibiotics given to animals in the absence of diagnosed disease and which supports farmer health and welfare, and ecologically protective and restorative agriculture.

Increase offerings of fruit and vegetables, nutritionally-dense and minimally processed, unrefined foods and reduce unhealthy (trans and saturated) fats and sweetened foods.

Implement a program to identify and adopt sustainable food procurement, including the adoption of rBGH free milk, fair trade coffee, or introduction of organic fresh produce.

Educate and communicate within our system and to our patients and community about our nutritious, socially just and ecological sustainable food practices and procedures.

Minimize or beneficially reuse food waste and support the use of food packaging and products which are ecologically protective.

Develop a program to promote and source from producers and processors which uphold the dignity of family, farmers, workers and their communities and support sustainable and humane agriculture systems.

Report annually on implementation of this Pledge.

“Navicent Health has long history of providing nutritious and healthy meal options for our patients, visitors and staff. We also seek to purchase products that are socially just, such as fair trade coffees. As a responsible provider of healthcare services, we are choosing to deepen our commitment not only for the health of our patients, visitors and staff, but also to our local and global communities and our environment,” said Tim Slocum, Vice President of System Support Services for Navicent Health.

“We are deeply committed to creating and sustaining healthy eating behaviors through patient education, teaching kitchens, prescriptive patient and retail menus. Through this initiative and our WellPower platform, we have an enormous opportunity in partnership with Navicent Health to continue influencing the eating habits of patients, hospital employees, and guests,” said Senior National Director of Wellness & Sustainability for Morrison Healthcare. In addition to serving patients in their rooms, the 830-bed Navicent Health operates numerous cafeterias, cafes and eateries throughout its health system in locations including Carlyle Place, Navicent Health; The Medical Center, Navicent Health; Medical Center of Peach County, Navicent Health; and Rehabilitation Hospital, Navicent Health.

The pledge was created by Health Care Without Harm, an organization that seeks to transform healthcare worldwide, without threat to patient safety or harm, so that the industry becomes ecologically sustainable and a leading advocate for environmental health. For more information, please visit https://noharm-uscanada.org/.

About Navicent Health

Navicent Health was incorporated on November 17, 1994, as a nonprofit corporation whose primary purpose is to coordinate the Medical Center, Navicent Health and other affiliated entities in their mission of providing a comprehensive continuum of high quality, reasonably priced healthcare services to the region. Navicent Health has 830 beds for medical, surgical, rehabilitation and hospice purposes. The health system includes The Medical Center, Navicent Health, a nationally recognized tertiary teaching hospital; Children’s Hospital, Navicent Health, the region’s only dedicated pediatric hospital; Medical Center of Peach County, Navicent Health, a rural critical access hospital; Rehabilitation Hospital, Navicent Health, the region’s oldest and most experienced rehabilitation provider; Pine Pointe, Navicent Health, which provides palliative and hospice care in homes and in its facility; Carlyle Place, Navicent Health, the area’s first continuing care retirement community; Navicent Health Foundation, the philanthropic arm of Navicent Health; as well as diagnostic and home care services. For more information, please visit www.navicenthealth.org.

publicrelations@navicenthealth.org

Navicent Health Named 2017 Most Wired Advanced

July 17, 2017 9:07 am

August 24, 2017 9:07 am

Most Wired Hospitals Use Technology to Partner with Patients on Health

Technology is making it easier for patients and providers to interact, thus improving communication, safety and patient-provider relationships. New tools are helping patients become more actively involved in their care and maintaining their health, according to results of the 19th Annual Health Care’s Most Wired® survey, released July 10, 2017 by the American Hospital Association’s (AHA) Health Forum.

Navicent Health in Macon, Ga. is the only healthcare organization in the state and one of only 27 nationwide to achieve Most Wired Advanced status. In order to achieve Advanced designation, Navicent Health exceeded core development in the four focus areas of infrastructure, business and administrative management, clinical quality and safety, and clinical integration.

“At Navicent Health, we are continuing to pursue technological advances in order to best serve the needs of healthcare consumers. Whether through the development of mobile apps or advances in telehealth technology, Navicent Health continues to lead the region in providing access to healthcare services in the most convenient, user-friendly and consumer-focused manner,” said Omer Awan, Chief Information Officer for Navicent Health.

“At Navicent Health, we are committed to providing consumers access to quality care at the right time and in the right place. In the twenty-first century, that time is now and that place is here, wherever that may be. Through technology, healthcare consumers now have immediate access to the care they need, as soon as they need it. We applaud our IT Team for the measures they have taken to best meet the needs of those who depend on Navicent Health for timely care,” said Dr. Ninfa M. Saunders, President and CEO of Navicent Health.
 
According to the survey, Most Wired hospitals and health systems like Navicent Health are using smart phones, telehealth and remote monitoring to create more ways for patients to access health care services and capture health information. This year’s results show: 76 percent offer secure messaging with clinicians on mobile devices.

When patients need ongoing monitoring at home, 74 percent use secure e-mails for patients and families to keep in touch with the care team. 68 percent simplify prescription renewals by letting patients make requests on mobile devices.

62 percent add data reported by patients to the electronic health record to get a better picture of what is going on with the patient. Nearly half of the hospitals are using telehealth to provide behavioral health services to more patients.

40 percent offer virtual physician visits.

More than 40 percent provide real-time care management services to patients at home for diabetes and congestive heart failure.

“The Most Wired hospitals are using every available technology option to create more ways to reach their patients in order to provide access to care,” said AHA President and CEO Rick Pollack. “They are transforming care delivery, investing in new delivery models in order to improve quality, provide access and control costs.”

Innovation in patient care embraces emerging technologies and underscores the need for secure patient information exchange. Hospitals have increased their use of sophisticated IT monitoring systems to detect patient privacy breaches, monitor for malicious activities or policy violations and produce real-time analysis of security alerts.

97 percent use intrusion detection systems.

96 percent perform data access audits.

Nearly 90 percent run targeted phishing exercises to teach employees to question suspicious emails.

Most Wired hospitals and health systems are transforming care delivery with knowledge gained from data and analytics. They are investing in analytics to support new delivery models and effective decision-making and training clinicians on how to use analytics to improve quality, provide access and control costs. 82 percent analyze retrospective clinical and administrative data to identify areas for improving quality and reducing the cost of care.

Three-quarters use sophisticated analytics such as predictive modeling and data to improve decision-making.

Nearly 70 percent interface electronic health record data with population health tools for care management.

More than 70 percent are providing data analytic tools training to physicians and nurses.

45 percent initiate a patient pathway using health IT to follow a care plan.

Nearly 40 percent deliver quality metrics to physicians at the point-of-care.

32 percent have tools for real-time patient identification and tracking for value-based care conditions, such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.

HealthCare’s Most Wired® survey, conducted between Jan. 15 and March 15, 2017, is published annually by Hospitals & Health Networks (H&HN). The 2017 Most Wired® survey and benchmarking study is a leading industry barometer measuring information technology (IT) use and adoption among hospitals and health systems nationwide. The survey of 698 participants, representing an estimated 2,158 hospitals — more than 39 percent of all hospitals in the U.S. — examines how organizations are leveraging IT to improve performance for value-based health care in the areas of infrastructure, business and administrative management; quality and safety; and clinical integration.
 
Detailed results of the survey and study can be found in the July issue of H&HN. For a full list of winners, visit www.hhnmag.com.
  About the Most Wired Survey

The 2017 Most Wired Survey is conducted in cooperation with the American Hospital Association and Clearwater Compliance, LLC.
About the American Hospital Association

The AHA is a not-for-profit association of health care provider organizations and individuals that are committed to the improvement of health in their communities. The AHA is the national advocate for its members, which include nearly 5,000 hospitals, health care systems, networks and other providers of care. Founded in 1898, the AHA provides education for health care leaders and is a source of information on health care issues and trends. For more information, visit www.aha.org.
About Health Forum

Health Forum is a strategic business enterprise of the American Hospital Association, creatively partnering to develop and deliver essential information and innovative services to help health care leaders achieve organizational performance excellence and sustainability. For more information, visit www.healthforum.com.
About Clearwater Compliance, LLC | https://clearwatercompliance.com/

Clearwater Compliance, LLC is a leading provider of healthcare compliance and cyber risk management solutions. Its mission is to empower hospitals and health systems to successfully manage healthcare’s evolving cybersecurity risks and ensure patient safety. Exclusively endorsed by the American Hospital Association, Clearwater solutions have been deployed within hundreds of hospitals and health systems, Fortune 100 organizations and federal government institutions. More information about Clearwater Compliance is at http://www.Clearwatercompliance.com.
About Navicent Health

Navicent Health was incorporated on November 17, 1994, as a nonprofit corporation whose primary purpose is to coordinate the Medical Center, Navicent Health and other affiliated entities in their mission of providing a comprehensive continuum of high quality, reasonably priced healthcare services to the region. Navicent Health has 830 beds for medical, surgical, rehabilitation and hospice purposes. The health system includes The Medical Center, Navicent Health, a nationally recognized tertiary teaching hospital; Children’s Hospital, Navicent Health, the region’s only dedicated pediatric hospital; Medical Center of Peach County, Navicent Health, a rural critical access hospital; Rehabilitation Hospital, Navicent Health, the region’s oldest and most experienced rehabilitation provider; Pine Pointe, Navicent Health, which provides palliative and hospice care in homes and in its facility; Carlyle Place, Navicent Health, the area’s first continuing care retirement community; Navicent Health Foundation, the philanthropic arm of Navicent Health; as well as diagnostic and home care services. For more information, please visit www.navicenthealth.org.

publicrelations@navicenthealth.org

The Medical Center, Navicent Health Receives Seventh Consecutive Award for Stroke Care

August 24, 2017 3:50 pm

August 24, 2017 3:50 pm

The Medical Center, Navicent Health (MCNH) has received its seventh consecutive “Get With the Guidelines – Stroke Gold Plus” Quality Achievement Award, an annual award presented by the American Heart Association / American Stroke Association (AHA) for excellence in stroke care. In addition, MCNH has also been named to AHA’s Target: StrokeSM Honor Roll Elite Plus.

The “Get With the Guidelines – Stroke Gold Plus” Quality Achievement Award with Target: StrokeSM Honor Roll Elite Plus recognizes MCNH’s commitment to quality care for stroke patients, and success in implementing an exemplary standard of care for stroke patients, according to nationally recognized research-based guidelines based on the latest scientific evidence.

In order to receive the award, MCNH achieved an 85 percent or higher adherence to all Get With The Guidelines-Stroke Quality Achievement indicators for two or more consecutive 12-month periods and achieved 75 percent or higher compliance with five of eight Get With The Guidelines-Stroke Quality Measures, which are reporting initiatives to measure quality of care.

To qualify for the Target: Stroke Honor Roll Elite Plus, MCNH met quality measures developed to reduce the time between a patient’s arrival at the hospital and treatment with the clot-buster tissue plasminogen activator (tPA), the only drug approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration to treat ischemic stroke. If given intravenously within the first three hours after the start of stroke symptoms, tPA has been shown to significantly reduce the effects of stroke and lessen the chance of permanent disability. MCNH earned the award by meeting specific quality achievement measures for the diagnosis and treatment of stroke patients at a set level for a designated period, specifically, by administering thrombolytic therapy within 60 minutes in 75 percent or more of acute ischemic stroke patients with door to needle times of 45 minutes for at least 50 percent of applicable patients. In addition to the national recognitions received from AHA, MCNH also recently received an Award of Excellence from the Georgia Coverdell Registry for door-to-needle time and tPA administration.

“The American Heart Association and American Stroke Association recognize The Medical Center, Navicent Health in its commitment to stroke care. Research has shown there are benefits to patients who are treated at hospitals that have adopted the Get With The Guidelines program,” said Paul Heidenreich, M.D., M.S., national chairman of the Get With The Guidelines Steering Committee and Professor of Medicine at Stanford University.

These quality measures are designed to help hospital teams follow the most up-to-date, evidence-based guidelines with the goal of speeding recovery and reducing death and disability for stroke patients.

“A stroke patient loses 1.9 million neurons each minute that stroke treatment is delayed. This award demonstrates The Medical Center, Navicent Health’s continued commitment to deliver advanced stroke care to patients quickly and safely. We are so very proud of our stroke team and their diligence to provide timely, proven care for our patients. We will continue to raise the standard of excellence as we treat stroke patients with evidence-based protocols,” said Christopher Hendry, M.D., Chief Medical Officer for MCNH.

According to AHA, stroke is the fifth leading causes of death and the leading cause of serious, long-term disability in the United States. On average, someone in the U.S. suffers a stroke every 40 seconds, someone dies of a stroke every four minutes, and nearly 800,000 people suffer a new or recurrent stroke each year.

“The number of acute ischemic stroke patients eligible for treatment is expected to grow over the next decade due to increasing stroke incidence and an aging population. The Medical Center, Navicent Health remains focused on improving the quality of stroke care by implementing evidence-based guidelines, including Get With The Guidelines–Stroke,” said Denise Goings, RN, MSN, SCRN, Stroke Coordinator for MCNH.

About Navicent Health

Navicent Health was incorporated on November 17, 1994, as a nonprofit corporation whose primary purpose is to coordinate the Medical Center, Navicent Health and other affiliated entities in their mission of providing a comprehensive continuum of high quality, reasonably priced healthcare services to the region. Navicent Health has 830 beds for medical, surgical, rehabilitation and hospice purposes. The health system includes The Medical Center, Navicent Health, a nationally recognized tertiary teaching hospital; Children’s Hospital, Navicent Health, the region’s only dedicated pediatric hospital; Medical Center of Peach County, Navicent Health, a rural critical access hospital; Rehabilitation Hospital, Navicent Health, the region’s oldest and most experienced rehabilitation provider; Pine Pointe, Navicent Health, which provides palliative and hospice care in homes and in its facility; Carlyle Place, Navicent Health, the area’s first continuing care retirement community; Navicent Health Foundation, the philanthropic arm of Navicent Health; as well as diagnostic and home care services. For more information, please visit www.navicenthealth.org.

About Get With The Guidelines®

Get With The Guidelines® is the American Heart Association/American Stroke Association’s hospital-based quality improvement program that provides hospitals with tools and resources to increase adherence to the latest research-based guidelines. Developed with the goal of saving lives and hastening recovery, Get With The Guidelines has touched the lives of more than 6 million patients since 2001. For more information, visit heart.org.

publicrelations@navicenthealth.org

Dr. Ninfa M. Saunders Named One of 2017s Most Influential Women

August 24, 2017 4:11 pm

August 24, 2017 4:11 pm

The Top 25 2017 Most Influential Women of the Mid-Market has been announced by CEO Connection®, the only membership organization exclusively for mid-market CEOs. This list recognizes the top 25 women in the U.S. based on their ability to influence change, innovation, and standards for excellence in companies with annual sales between $100 million and $3 billion.

Among the 25 women included on 2017’s list is Dr. Ninfa M. Saunders, FACHE, President and CEO of Navicent Health. Nationally renowned for her strategic initiatives to improve access to healthcare and affect change within the industry, Dr. Saunders has over 45 years of hospital administrative and clinical experience.

An executive cofounder of Stratus Healthcare, a collaborative partnership of both urban and rural healthcare providers, she remains focused on “a fee-for-value framework rather than the fee-for-service model.” She has worked tirelessly to protect access to healthcare in rural areas, ensuring all patients have right access to the right care at the right time and at the right cost.

“We at Navicent Health are honored to have our CEO, Dr. Saunders, recognized nationally among CEOs for her dedication to innovation and ability to influence change within the industry. We are so pleased with the work she has done for our community, our region, and the industry as a whole,” said Starr Purdue, Chair of Navicent Health’s Board of Directors.

"We are honored to be able to recognize such a prestigious group of women who have truly made an impact on their company and have given back to their community," says Kenneth Beck, CEO of CEO Connection. "We have been recognizing CEOs through our Mid-Market 500 and Mid-Market 1000 lists as well as the Most Influential Women’s List and we are pleased to share this new select group with the business community.”

Honorees will be recognized at the 2017 Mid-Market Convention on September 25-27 at The Wharton School in Philadelphia, PA. Referred to as the "Davos for the Mid-Market," this exclusive global gathering brings together the leadership of the mid-market top business experts and senior government officials to help each other and change the world.

About CEO Connection

CEO Connection is the ONLY membership organization in the world reserved exclusively for CEOs of mid-market companies – companies with between $100 million and $3 billion in annual revenue. Our mission is to help mid-market CEOs and their companies succeed. We accomplish this by connecting them to each other; connecting them to people, information and resources to which they would otherwise not have access; and promoting the interests, welfare, and perspective of the mid-market. Members are C-level executives with responsibility for all or significant portions of their respective company. They represent a wide variety of businesses across a broad geographic spectrum. Collectively mid-market companies account for $10 trillion of the $30 trillion annual U.S. private sector gross receipts. Inspired by C-level Wharton executives, CEO Connection began in 2005 and has evolved into a dynamic community with wide ranging benefits uniquely designed to help the mid-market CEO and champion the mid-market perspective.>/p>
About Navicent Health

Navicent Health was incorporated on November 17, 1994, as a nonprofit corporation whose primary purpose is to coordinate the Medical Center, Navicent Health and other affiliated entities in their mission of providing a comprehensive continuum of high quality, reasonably priced healthcare services to the region. Navicent Health has 830 beds for medical, surgical, rehabilitation and hospice purposes. The health system includes The Medical Center, Navicent Health, a nationally recognized tertiary teaching hospital; Children’s Hospital, Navicent Health, the region’s only dedicated pediatric hospital; Medical Center of Peach County, Navicent Health, a rural critical access hospital; Rehabilitation Hospital, Navicent Health, the region’s oldest and most experienced rehabilitation provider; Pine Pointe, Navicent Health, which provides palliative and hospice care in homes and in its facility; Carlyle Place, Navicent Health, the area’s first continuing care retirement community; Navicent Health Foundation, the philanthropic arm of Navicent Health; as well as diagnostic and home care services. For more information, please visit www.navicenthealth.org.

publicrelations@navicenthealth.org

Navicent Health & First Choice Primary Care Partner for Benefit of Macon-Bibb Residents

August 24, 2017 4:28 pm

August 24, 2017 4:28 pm

Navicent Health and First Choice Primary Care (FCPC) are pleased to announce a new partnership with South Macon Family Physicians (SMFP) for the benefit of residents in the south Macon community and the many patients throughout the community served by family practitioner William Brooks, M.D

Since 1975, SMFP has provided family medicine services to the residents of the neighborhoods surrounding Houston Avenue and for patients throughout the Macon-Bibb County area. Recently, Dr. Brooks has taken measures to ensure a smooth transition for his practice and his patients when he decides to retire. Navicent Health and FCPC, Bibb County’s Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC), are honored to partner with Dr. Brooks to achieve that goal.

“I am pleased to be able to keep taking care of my patients. While healthcare has gotten much more complicated in some ways, such as computerized records and complex billing rules, some things stay the same. People want to get medical care from someone they know and that knows them, so I appreciate the fact that Navicent and First Choice decided to work with us here at South Macon Family Physicians,” said Dr. Brooks.

Dr. Brooks continues to care for his patients as part of the FCPC organization, and will be joined by a nurse practitioner to expand access to care for new and existing patients. His practice will also gain nursing, patient education and technical support from FCPC. In partnership with other FCPC practices, his office will work with Navicent Health to increase overall wellness, prevent illness and injury, and limit hospital readmissions for patients with health conditions and comorbidities.

“Many of the residents in this area have relied on Dr. Brooks for their care for years, and would have difficulty accessing healthcare outside of their neighborhood following his retirement. Patients are able to walk to this practice, which provides the only physician in the immediate area, and will continue to make this clinic their medical home. Navicent Health is committed to providing high quality care for vulnerable communities. We are honored to partner with Dr. Brooks and with First Choice Primary Care to ensure continuous access to high quality care for these Macon residents, close to their home,” said Dr. Ninfa M. Saunders, President and CEO of Navicent Health.

Navicent Health’s decision to partner with FCPC and SMFP is but one facet in a larger plan to improve community health and reduce healthcare disparities throughout Macon-Bibb County. In 2015, the health system conducted a Community Health Needs Assessment within its primary service area to determine top areas of concern to address during fiscal years 2016-2018. One of the top needs identified at that time was access to healthcare services within certain Bibb County neighborhoods.

“Access to health services remains challenging across Navicent Health’s total service area, particularly in low income neighborhoods. Twenty-four percent of central Georgia adults report not having a specific source of ongoing medical care. In Bibb County alone, 43 percent reported they experienced difficulties or delays in receiving needed healthcare in the past year. Closely associated with this finding is the number of residents living below 200 percent of the Federal Poverty Level. Even if low income residents qualify for a government sponsored insurance plan, they also have social determinants that impact their access to care, including lack of transportation. By providing access to care in the neighborhood where they live, we ensure their continued health and wellness, and limit the need for hospitalization due to unmanaged conditions,” said Elbert McQueen, Senior Vice President of Post-Acute Services for Navicent Health.

In addition to the clinic located on South Houston Avenue, Navicent Health also plans to work with FCPC and the Curtis Raines Sr. Foundation to establish a clinic on Napier Avenue, another Macon-Bibb County neighborhood with a high concentration of senior citizens. Navicent Health will also provide education, health screenings and case management services to residents of Bibb County Senior Living Towers, allowing these customers access to healthcare where they live. The strategic objective is to focus on avoidable hospital admissions and extended periods of wellness, as well as maintenance services provided by Navicent Health’s Healthy Communities Case Managers. These efforts are part of Navicent Health’s commitment to reducing healthcare disparities through its Healthy Communities program.

About Navicent Health

Navicent Health was incorporated on November 17, 1994, as a nonprofit corporation whose primary purpose is to coordinate the Medical Center, Navicent Health and other affiliated entities in their mission of providing a comprehensive continuum of high quality, reasonably priced healthcare services to the region. Navicent Health has 830 beds for medical, surgical, rehabilitation and hospice purposes. The health system includes The Medical Center, Navicent Health, a nationally recognized tertiary teaching hospital; Children’s Hospital, Navicent Health, the region’s only dedicated pediatric hospital; Medical Center of Peach County, Navicent Health, a rural critical access hospital; Rehabilitation Hospital, Navicent Health, the region’s oldest and most experienced rehabilitation provider; Pine Pointe, Navicent Health, which provides palliative and hospice care in homes and in its facility; Carlyle Place, Navicent Health, the area’s first continuing care retirement community; Navicent Health Foundation, the philanthropic arm of Navicent Health; as well as diagnostic and home care services. For more information, please visit www.navicenthealth.org.

publicrelations@navicenthealth.org

Independence Day Safety Tips From Navicent Health

August 24, 2017 4:16 pm

August 24, 2017 4:16 pm

According to the Consumer Product Safety Commission, an estimated 230 people per day will visit emergency rooms across the U.S. in the month surrounding Independence Day. Children younger than age 15 accounted for approximately 35 percent of those injured. The most common injuries include burns to the hands and fingers, followed by injuries that involve the head, face, eyes and ears.

Fireworks, including sparklers and flares, can cause serious burns as well as blast injuries that can permanently impair vision and hearing. Physicians at Children’s Hospital, Navicent Health and the Pediatric Emergency Center encourage parents to protect their children from firework injuries this summer.

Tips include the following:

• Handle and use fireworks in strict accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions and all warning labels.

• Light fireworks on smooth, flat surfaces, and aim them away from buildings, dry leaves, flammable materials and spectators.

• Do not try to relight fireworks that malfunction.

• Do not modify fireworks or use homemade fireworks.

• Light fireworks one at a time, then quickly move back.

• Do not shoot fireworks from a metal or glass container.

• Keep a phone and a bucket of water or a fire extinguisher handy, and know first aid for burns.

As with any activity involving hazardous equipment, adults should actively supervise all children when they are near fireworks.

If injury does occur, the experts at Children’s Hospital, Navicent Health and the Pediatric Emergency Center are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week to assist families with specialized care.

“Children need a children’s hospital, and you shouldn’t have to wait for expert care. Our emergency center is designed specifically to meet the needs of children, and to put them at ease in what can often be a frightening situation. Parents can also have peace of mind knowing their children are being cared for by the region’s leading pediatricians and specialists,” said Rogelio Dela Cruz, Medical Director of Pediatric Emergency Center, Navicent Health.

Located at 770 Pine Street in Macon, the Pediatric Emergency Center provides direct access to the many pediatricians and children’s specialists at Children’s Hospital, Navicent Health. A children’s waiting area and minimal wait times ensure families receive quick access to care in a child-friendly patient room.

About Navicent Health

Navicent Health was incorporated on November 17, 1994, as a nonprofit corporation whose primary purpose is to coordinate the Medical Center, Navicent Health and other affiliated entities in their mission of providing a comprehensive continuum of high quality, reasonably priced healthcare services to the region. Navicent Health has 830 beds for medical, surgical, rehabilitation and hospice purposes. The health system includes The Medical Center, Navicent Health, a nationally recognized tertiary teaching hospital; Children’s Hospital, Navicent Health, the region’s only dedicated pediatric hospital; Medical Center of Peach County, Navicent Health, a rural critical access hospital; Rehabilitation Hospital, Navicent Health, the region’s oldest and most experienced rehabilitation provider; Pine Pointe, Navicent Health, which provides palliative and hospice care in homes and in its facility; Carlyle Place, Navicent Health, the area’s first continuing care retirement community; Navicent Health Foundation, the philanthropic arm of Navicent Health; as well as diagnostic and home care services. For more information, please visit www.navicenthealth.org.

publicrelations@navicenthealth.org

New Navicent childrens hospital gets $5 million boost from Knight Foundation and Macon philanthropist Beverly Knight Olson

August 24, 2017 4:32 pm

August 24, 2017 4:32 pm

Navicent Health today announced $5 million in support for its new Children’s Hospital facility from the John S. and James L. Knight Foundation and Beverly Knight Olson, a Macon philanthropist and loyal supporter and volunteer at Children’s Hospital, Navicent Health for more than 25 years. Olson is a daughter of Knight-Ridder newspapers’ founder James Knight. The hospital’s new facility will be named the Beverly Knight Olson Children’s Hospital, Navicent Health to honor her contributions.

“When you consider someone who in Macon epitomizes selflessness and compassion, the first name that comes to mind is Beverly Knight Olson,” said Ellen Terrell, chief development officer of Navicent Health Foundation. “We could not think of a more fitting person after whom to name our Children’s Hospital. A gift of this magnitude from Beverly Knight Olson and Knight Foundation will propel this campaign to the next level, and we know others will follow their lead to help make this new Children’s Hospital a reality for families in central and south Georgia.”

“When we think of the children who trust us with their care and the standard we charge ourselves to live up to, there is no higher bar we could set for ourselves. Beverly is deeply involved in the Macon community, and has been a faithful and active supporter of Children’s Hospital for many years,” said Dr. Ninfa M. Saunders, president and CEO of Navicent Health. “She was instrumental in establishing our Safe Kids Bibb County program, as well as our annual Golf Classic fundraiser. We are thrilled to name our new facility in her honor, not only for her generous financial support, but also for her many years of hands-on care for our children and their families.”

Olson is committing $1 million and Knight Foundation is investing $4 million in the new hospital.

Navicent Health is currently Macon-Bibb’s largest employer. With more than 45,000 visits projected annually, the state-of-the-art institution will attract new talent to Macon and serve as an important anchor in the community. It will contribute to downtown Macon’s transformation, adding to Knight’s previous investments in the city.

“Jack and Jim Knight were deeply committed to the success of the communities where they built their business and lived their lives. The Beverly Knight Olson Children’s Hospital, named for Jim’s daughter, promises to bring new opportunities and talent to Macon, helping to build a stronger future for the city and the region,” said Knight Foundation President Alberto Ibargüen.

In June 2016, amid a climate that has seen a number of hospital closures and limited hospital expansion, Navicent Health announced its intent to construct a new Children’s Hospital facility, with plans to begin serving the region’s patients in 2019.

Since 1987, the nonprofit Children’s Hospital, Navicent Health has been committed to enhancing the lives of children through excellence in patient care, research and education. The only dedicated pediatric facility in central Georgia, and one of the most comprehensive in the state, it provides care in general pediatrics, pediatric critical care, neonatal intensive care and outpatient services. The hospital also serves as the primary teaching site for the Department of Pediatrics at the Mercer University School of Medicine.

Due to a growing demand for additional service options, Children’s Hospital, Navicent Health has outgrown its current facility, constructed in 1962 and designed for adult healthcare. Navicent Health’s vision is to construct a new facility in order to expand services in a hospital designed to meet the specific needs of children with illness or injury.

The new hospital, to be built on the current site at 888 Pine St. in downtown Macon, will be a larger facility with the latest equipment and technologies.

“Children are not small adults. Their health needs are different and are constantly changing,” said Dr. Josh Glenn, the hospital’s director of Pediatric Surgery. “With a proven track record of providing excellent care, we are faced with the need to replace the current facility. We are committed to comprehensive, excellent care delivered by highly trained, board-certified pediatric physicians and clinical staff. We look forward to providing care in a new, world-class facility.”

With gratitude to Olson and her generous support, Navicent Health continues to seek philanthropic support in order to make its goal a reality.

“Children’s Hospital, Navicent Health has always relied on philanthropic support, and we are grateful to our donors for their commitment to Georgia’s most fragile children. Each gift made to the Beverly Knight Olson Children’s Hospital campaign will be an investment not only in the children of today, but for the generations to come. Whether it is a premature infant born at less than one pound or a teenager recovering from an automobile accident, donors make a significant difference in the lives of our precious children. My family and I have been pleased to support this wonderful organization for many years, and we invite our community to become a part of the growing legacy for children who have and will continue to depend on the specialized care provided by the Beverly Knight Olson Children’s Hospital, Navicent Health,” said Olson.

The hospital adds to Knight Foundation’s previous investments in Macon. Since Knight made a $2 million investment to establish the College Hill Alliance in 2009, public and private sources have invested an additional $25 million in residential and commercial development in the area, a 2012 independent evaluation commissioned by the foundation found. Continued revitalization of the Beall’s Hill neighborhood and Historic Macon, improvements to Tattnall Square Park, the development of Mercer Village and Mercer’s Center for Collaborative Journalism are among the most visible outcomes of the initiative. These efforts have resulted in more than $97 million in private and public investment since 2009.

The construction of the new Children’s Hospital is one of a number of initiatives Navicent Health plans to undertake within the next five years in order to dramatically improve access to high-quality, reasonably-priced care within the region.

About Navicent Health

Navicent Health was incorporated on November 17, 1994, as a nonprofit corporation whose primary purpose is to coordinate the Medical Center, Navicent Health and other affiliated entities in their mission of providing a comprehensive continuum of high quality, reasonably priced healthcare services to the region. Navicent Health has 830 beds for medical, surgical, rehabilitation and hospice purposes. The health system includes The Medical Center, Navicent Health, a nationally recognized tertiary teaching hospital; Children’s Hospital, Navicent Health, the region’s only dedicated pediatric hospital; Medical Center of Peach County, Navicent Health, a rural critical access hospital; Rehabilitation Hospital, Navicent Health, the region’s oldest and most experienced rehabilitation provider; Pine Pointe, Navicent Health, which provides palliative and hospice care in homes and in its facility; Carlyle Place, Navicent Health, the area’s first continuing care retirement community; Navicent Health Foundation, the philanthropic arm of Navicent Health; as well as diagnostic and home care services. For more information, please visit www.navicenthealth.org.

About the John S. and James L. Knight Foundation:

Knight Foundation is a national foundation with strong local roots. We invest in journalism, in the arts, and in the success of cities where brothers John S. and James L. Knight once published newspapers. Our goal is to foster informed and engaged communities, which we believe are essential for a healthy democracy. For more, visit knightfoundation.org.

publicrelations@navicenthealth.org

Peyton Anderson Cancer Center, Navicent Health Receives National Accreditation

August 24, 2017 4:37 pm

August 24, 2017 4:37 pm

Peyton Anderson Cancer Center, Navicent Health (PACC) has earned National Accreditation with Commendation from the Commission on Cancer (CoC) of the American College of Surgeons (ACS). CoC, a quality program of ACS, has granted Three-Year Accreditation with Commendation to PACC.

To earn voluntary CoC accreditation, a cancer program must meet or exceed the CoC quality care standards, be evaluated every three years through a survey process, and maintain levels of excellence in the delivery of comprehensive patient-centered care. Three-Year Accreditation with Commendation is only awarded to a facility that exceeds standard requirements at the time of its triennial survey.

As a CoC-accredited cancer center since 1992, PACC takes a multidisciplinary approach to treating cancer as a complex group of diseases that requires consultation among surgeons, medical and radiation oncologists, diagnostic radiologists, pathologists, and other cancer specialists. This multidisciplinary partnership results in improved patient care.

“Our participation in the Commission on Cancer Accreditation Program provides us with an effective framework for improving our quality of patient care through various cancer-related programs that focus on the full spectrum of cancer care including prevention, early diagnosis, cancer staging, optimal treatment, rehabilitation, life-long follow-up for recurrent disease, and end-of-life care,” said Paul Dale, M.D., Medical Director of PACC.

Patients who receive care at PACC also have access to information on clinical trials and new treatments, genetic counseling, and patient centered services including psycho-social support, a patient navigation process, and a survivorship care plan that documents the care each patient receives and seeks to improve cancer survivors’ quality of life.

"This accreditation serves to validate the great work done at the Peyton Anderson Cancer Center, Navicent Health to develop a comprehensive approach to cancer management. Cancer patients and their loved ones throughout the region can trust Peyton Anderson Cancer Center to deliver the highest quality of cancer care, close to home," said Christopher Hendry, M.D., Chief Medical Officer for Navicent Health.

Since 2014, PACC has provided central Georgians with access to the latest in outpatient oncology services. The state-of-the-art PACC allows cancer patients to access numerous diagnostic and treatment options – including the latest research and clinical trials – in a single location and close to home, allowing cancer treatment to be easily accessed, more affordable and more convenient for patients and caregivers. CoC also granted its 2014 Outstanding Achievement Award to PACC. The cancer center was among a select group of 75 accredited cancer programs throughout the United States to receive the award and one of only 25 cancer programs to achieve this award for the second consecutive survey period.

About Navicent Health

Navicent Health was incorporated on November 17, 1994, as a nonprofit corporation whose primary purpose is to coordinate the Medical Center, Navicent Health and other affiliated entities in their mission of providing a comprehensive continuum of high quality, reasonably priced healthcare services to the region. Navicent Health has 830 beds for medical, surgical, rehabilitation and hospice purposes. The health system includes The Medical Center, Navicent Health, a nationally recognized tertiary teaching hospital; Children’s Hospital, Navicent Health, the region’s only dedicated pediatric hospital; Medical Center of Peach County, Navicent Health, a rural critical access hospital; Rehabilitation Hospital, Navicent Health, the region’s oldest and most experienced rehabilitation provider; Pine Pointe, Navicent Health, which provides palliative and hospice care in homes and in its facility; Carlyle Place, Navicent Health, the area’s first continuing care retirement community; Navicent Health Foundation, the philanthropic arm of Navicent Health; as well as diagnostic and home care services. For more information, please visit www.navicenthealth.org.

publicrelations@navicenthealth.org

Jason Aldean Sets Plan For Return To Macon For Concert For The Kids

June 24, 2017 4:50 pm

August 24, 2017 4:50 pm

Today, two-time and reigning ACM "Entertainer of the Year" Jason Aldean announced he will return to his hometown of Macon, GA for a second Concert For The Kids on Friday, August 11. After raising more than half a million dollars at last year’s intimate stripped-down performance, Aldean will expand to the Macon Coliseum this year. All proceeds will once again benefit the Children’s Hospital, Navicent Health, which serves as Bibb County's only dedicated pediatric facility in central Georgia that enhances the lives of children through patient care, research and education. Tickets go on-sale to the public beginning this Friday (6/23) at 10:00A ET on JasonAldean.com and Ticketmaster.com.

“Supporting these kids in Macon and their families is something that I’m really proud to be a part of,” said Aldean. “We’re looking forward to getting back to town, kicking things up a couple notches and hopefully raise a huge amount of money for the hospital so that they can continue to grow and serve my hometown community."

“We are thrilled and so very appreciative that Jason made the time to take a detour from his They Don’t Know tour to visit Macon for the benefit of our patients at Children’s Hospital, Navicent Health,” added Ellen Terrell, Chief Development Officer for Navicent Health Foundation. "Our young patients and their families are grateful for Jason’s continued commitment to their healing and care. Children’s Hospital, Navicent Health has always relied on philanthropic support, and we are grateful to each of our donors for their commitment to Georgia’s most fragile children.”

“Country music's hard-rocking everyman” is “the mirror image of his fans” (Rolling Stone) as his most recent album THEY DON'T KNOW follows each album release earning PLATINUM certification or better, tallying more than 15 million total album sales and 19 No. One hits. The longevity of his career reached new heights as he debuted at the No. One position on Billboard’s all-genre Top 200 Album chart for the third consecutive time. In addition to the new tour, the "reigning Entertainer of the Year shows why he holds the title” (Newsday) as the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum showcases a special exhibit Jason Aldean: Asphalt Cowboy, commemorating his wide-open sound that has been one of the defining influences on today’s Country Music. For more information and for a full list of upcoming tour dates, www.jasonaldean.com.

About Navicent Health

Navicent Health was incorporated on November 17, 1994, as a nonprofit corporation whose primary purpose is to coordinate the Medical Center, Navicent Health and other affiliated entities in their mission of providing a comprehensive continuum of high quality, reasonably priced healthcare services to the region. Navicent Health has 830 beds for medical, surgical, rehabilitation and hospice purposes. The health system includes The Medical Center, Navicent Health, a nationally recognized tertiary teaching hospital; Children’s Hospital, Navicent Health, the region’s only dedicated pediatric hospital; Medical Center of Peach County, Navicent Health, a rural critical access hospital; Rehabilitation Hospital, Navicent Health, the region’s oldest and most experienced rehabilitation provider; Pine Pointe, Navicent Health, which provides palliative and hospice care in homes and in its facility; Carlyle Place, Navicent Health, the area’s first continuing care retirement community; Navicent Health Foundation, the philanthropic arm of Navicent Health; as well as diagnostic and home care services. For more information, please visit www.navicenthealth.org.

publicrelations@navicenthealth.org

Navicent Health Invites Community to Annual Code Med Health Fair On June 24

August 24, 2017 4:53 pm

August 24, 2017 4:53 pm

Navicent Health invites the community to participate in a healthy day of learning and fun at the health system’s annual Code Med Health Fair. The entire family is invited to participate in health screenings, demonstrations and seminars related to personal health and wellness.

The event is scheduled for Saturday, June 24, 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m., at the Anderson Conference Center (5171 Eisenhower Pkwy., across from Middle Georgia State University).

The following are highlights of the Code Med Health Fair:

• GACHIP – A free program gives families a measure of protection against the disappearance of a child and provides law enforcement with important tools to assist in the speedy and safe recovery of a child. A single photo, fingerprinting, short video interview and DNA sample (from a mouth swab) of the child are compiled and given to the parents.

• Cyber Security Enhancement Training

• AngioScreen ® - A painless, noninvasive screening to determine risk for heart disease and stroke. Screenings are $50.00, but are provided at no charge for honorably discharged U.S. military veterans with a DOD 214 card. Please call 1-800-627-2393 to make an appointment.

• Free health screenings for adults and children, including blood pressure, blood sugar, body fat analysis, cholesterol, breast cancer* and skin cancer* exams.

• Free information on topics including cancer, diabetes, heart disease and stroke, living wills and mental health.

• Health and safety demonstrations.

• Exhibits from local community organizations.

• Giveaways and visits with Navicent Health’s affable mascot, Medi Teddy.

“At Navicent Health, we say, ‘Everything about us is all about you.’ That’s not just a slogan or a catch phrase. It is a promise to each individual in the communities we serve, a promise to help each person achieve ultimate health and wellness. Events like the Code Med Health Fair are integral to building healthier communities. We invite those in our area to take advantage of the many health screenings, tips and information that will be offered at this events,” said Carol Babcock, Director of Healthy Communities, Navicent Health.

*Preregistration is required for these free exams. Please call 478-633-6336.

About Navicent Health

Navicent Health was incorporated on November 17, 1994, as a nonprofit corporation whose primary purpose is to coordinate the Medical Center, Navicent Health and other affiliated entities in their mission of providing a comprehensive continuum of high quality, reasonably priced healthcare services to the region. Navicent Health has 830 beds for medical, surgical, rehabilitation and hospice purposes. The health system includes The Medical Center, Navicent Health, a nationally recognized tertiary teaching hospital; Children’s Hospital, Navicent Health, the region’s only dedicated pediatric hospital; Medical Center of Peach County, Navicent Health, a rural critical access hospital; Rehabilitation Hospital, Navicent Health, the region’s oldest and most experienced rehabilitation provider; Pine Pointe, Navicent Health, which provides palliative and hospice care in homes and in its facility; Carlyle Place, Navicent Health, the area’s first continuing care retirement community; Navicent Health Foundation, the philanthropic arm of Navicent Health; as well as diagnostic and home care services. For more information, please visit www.navicenthealth.org.

publicrelations@navicenthealth.org

Navicent Health Applauds Mount de Sales Students For Contributions

June 14, 2017 4:59 pm

August 24, 2017 4:59 pm

Navicent Health extends its congratulations to the Mount de Sales (MDS) Class of 2017, and its appreciation for the many students in this class who have contributed to care at Navicent Health throughout the past year. The health system was also pleased to learn that a group of these students are applying skills learned at Navicent Health to enhance downtown Macon’s appeal to teens.

During the 2016-2017 academic year, 15 select MDS seniors participated in Navicent Health’s Senior Transition Experience Program (STEP). As part of this 14-week program, the students gaining practical experience in healthcare administration, clinical operations, research, innovation, project management and process improvement. After a visit to Spark Macon, a downtown maker space, five of these students were inspired to launch a broad student-led initiative to enhance downtown Macon’s appeal for other students.

“A lot of kids, after they graduate high school, don’t think of returning to Macon. Our students’ ultimate goal is to foster fond feelings about Macon and have them think of this as a place to return to following college graduation,” said Laura Schofield, Director of Institutional Advancement for MDS.

Applying skills gained through hands on learning at Navicent Health, the students have applied for the Community Foundation of Central Georgia’s $20,000 Downtown Challenge Grant with the intent of founding the student-led Macon Impact Club. The club would originate at MDS, with the hope of replicating similar clubs at other area high schools, and with the goal of making downtown attractive and exciting for teenagers through a combination of projects.

“After their visit with Navicent Health to Spark Macon, the five students envisioned the club and its potential impact, researched funding opportunities, spoke with people in the area to collect ideas, processed those ideas and organized other students to carry out their plan. They have discussed ways of creating a replicable model that can be used at other schools. All of this organizational processing is a benefit of the training they received at Navicent Health. We are very hopeful they will be awarded the grant so they may implement their plan,” said Simeon Sessley, Executive Director of Center for Disruption and Innovation, Navicent Health.

If awarded the Challenge grant, the members of the Macon Impact Club would coordinate various service projects intended to enhance downtown. Proposed projects include the development of Snapchat filters for various downtown landmarks and attractions, and creating an Instagram-able wall, a piece of moveable public art that would provide a background for photos.

“One of the values of our partnership with Navicent is that students have learned about processes, how those processes work, how to work as a group to analyze and carry out projects to create specific change. Those skills have been put into practice with their plan for the Macon Impact Club,” said Schofield. “If awarded the grant, these graduating seniors plan to work through the summer to train and organize the next set of leaders to carry this project forward.”

Navicent Health and MDS partnered in 2014 to found the STEP program, an internship designed to permit highly qualified high school seniors the opportunity to explore career options. In 2016, Navicent Health and the Bibb County School District replicated the program for highly qualified Bibb County seniors and staff. Through the programs, students are challenged to go beyond basic healthcare by participating in Navicent Health’s Lean/Six Sigma training program. Lean Six Sigma is a highly disciplined, data-driven methodology applicable in any industry, training students to improve processes and reduce expenses while growing revenue and managing resources. In 2017, Navicent Health’s Center for Disruption and Innovation began to partner with students to design, code and prototype patient-centered apps for IOS and Android.

“These programs allow Navicent Health to connect with some of the brightest young minds in central Georgia and give them an opportunity to solve real-world problems that affect their community. Developing these skillsets will be essential in preparing future generations to address shifting challenges in the years to come, whether in healthcare or other industries – success will only happen with a strong presence in, and collaboration with, the community. We are pleased to have played a small role in their education, and wish these students future success as they pursue this grant and further education,” said Christopher Cornue, Chief Strategy and Innovation Officer for Navicent Health.

About Navicent Health

Navicent Health was incorporated on November 17, 1994, as a nonprofit corporation whose primary purpose is to coordinate the Medical Center, Navicent Health and other affiliated entities in their mission of providing a comprehensive continuum of high quality, reasonably priced healthcare services to the region. Navicent Health has 830 beds for medical, surgical, rehabilitation and hospice purposes. The health system includes The Medical Center, Navicent Health, a nationally recognized tertiary teaching hospital; Children’s Hospital, Navicent Health, the region’s only dedicated pediatric hospital; Medical Center of Peach County, Navicent Health, a rural critical access hospital; Rehabilitation Hospital, Navicent Health, the region’s oldest and most experienced rehabilitation provider; Pine Pointe, Navicent Health, which provides palliative and hospice care in homes and in its facility; Carlyle Place, Navicent Health, the area’s first continuing care retirement community; Navicent Health Foundation, the philanthropic arm of Navicent Health; as well as diagnostic and home care services. For more information, please visit www.navicenthealth.org.

publicrelations@navicenthealth.org

Auxilians Purchase Charging Kiosk for Medical Center, Navicent Health

August 24, 2017 5:03 pm

August 24, 2017 5:03 pm

The Medical Center, Navicent Health (MCNH) Auxiliary is pleased to announce the purchase of a new charging kiosk that will benefit patients and their loved ones. The kiosk will allow those waiting at MCNH to charge phones, tablets and other handheld devices in a secure location.

The kiosk, located on the hospital’s second floor, stands at approximately five feet tall and contains five individual secure charging compartments. The kiosk accepts Apple, Android and other model products. Each charging compartment can accommodate phones, tablets, laptops, portable video game units and other handheld devices.

Those utilizing the kiosk may place their device inside a charging compartment, connecting it to the proper charger, then close the compartment’s door. The door is secured when the user creates a secret personal identification number (PIN) to lock the compartment’s door. Only those with the PIN will be able to unlock the door and remove charged devices, ensuring security if the user needs to step away from the kiosk for any length of time. Lighting on each compartment indicates when a device is fully charged, and multiple devices may be charged in a single compartment. Instructions for using the kiosk are available in English and Spanish.

“Our Auxiliary exists to improve the overall experience for our visitors. Through fundraisers and volunteer hours, Auxilians give back to our visitors in numerous ways. This new kiosk will provide a needed service to those spending extended lengths of time at the Medical Center, and we are pleased to offer this service at no cost,” said Vivian Thomas, MCNH Auxiliary President.

Navicent Health employee Carol Ann Rector saw the need for a charging station within the hospital, researched the idea and presented a proposal to the Auxiliary asking for funding. The kiosk was purchased for $10,000 was funded by the MCNH Auxilians through various fundraisers. The Auxiliary hosts a number of annual and semiannual fundraisers at MCNH to fund medical equipment, supplies and other items that benefit patients and their loved ones. Last year, Auxilians raised more than $121,000.00 for purchases including the kiosk, sleeper recliners for intensive care units, and a deaf talk unit to assist the hearing impaired. In addition to fundraising, Auxilians also contribute their time, donating approximately 43,000 hours of volunteer service to MCNH during the past year.

Those interested in joining the MCNH Auxiliary may contact Navicent Health’s Office of Public Relations at 478.633.1353.

About Navicent Health

Navicent Health was incorporated on November 17, 1994, as a nonprofit corporation whose primary purpose is to coordinate the Medical Center, Navicent Health and other affiliated entities in their mission of providing a comprehensive continuum of high quality, reasonably priced healthcare services to the region. Navicent Health has 830 beds for medical, surgical, rehabilitation and hospice purposes. The health system includes Medical Center, Navicent Health, a nationally recognized tertiary teaching hospital; Children’s Hospital, Navicent Health, the region’s only dedicated pediatric hospital; Medical Center of Peach County, Navicent Health, a rural critical access hospital; Rehabilitation Hospital, Navicent Health, the region’s oldest and most experienced rehabilitation provider; Pine Pointe Hospice, Navicent Health, which provides palliative and hospice care in homes and in its facility; Carlyle Place, Navicent Health, the area’s first continuing care retirement community; Navicent Health Foundation, the philanthropic arm of Navicent Health; as well as diagnostic and home care services.

publicrelations@navicenthealth.org

Celebrate Dental Hygiene Health Month at February PEP Talk

August 24, 2017 5:06 pm

August 24, 2017 5:06 pm

Autism Center, Navicent Health is pleased to host a speaker series for families living with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and other developmental disorders. Free support and training is offered through Parent Empowerment Program (PEP) Talks.

The next PEP Talk will take place on Tuesday, June 13 at 6:00 p.m. at Autism Center, Navicent Health (1014 Forsyth Street, Macon). Parking is available in the Yellow Parking Deck.

The topic for the June meeting will be “Intro to LAMP and PRC Devices,” presented by Jennifer Thomas, EdS, CCC-SEP. Language Acquisition through Motor Planning (LAMP) is a therapeutic approach based on neurological and motor learning principles, designed to assist those who are nonverbal or have limited verbal abilities in expressing themselves. Prentke Romich Company (PRC) develops speech generated devices to assist toward this goal.

PEP Talks feature a variety of topics useful for families affected by ASD and other developmental disorders. PEP Talks are free for family members, educators, healthcare professionals and the public, and offer evidence-based information along with tools and tips for families to use at home, school and within the community.

While PEP Talks are free, registration is required. Please contact Autism Center, Navicent Health at 478-633-8100 or at autism@navicenthealth.org to register.

About Navicent Health

Navicent Health was incorporated on November 17, 1994, as a nonprofit corporation whose primary purpose is to coordinate the Medical Center, Navicent Health and other affiliated entities in their mission of providing a comprehensive continuum of high quality, reasonably priced healthcare services to the region. Navicent Health has 830 beds for medical, surgical, rehabilitation and hospice purposes. The health system includes The Medical Center, Navicent Health, a nationally recognized tertiary teaching hospital; Children’s Hospital, Navicent Health, the region’s only dedicated pediatric hospital; Medical Center of Peach County, Navicent Health, a rural critical access hospital; Rehabilitation Hospital, Navicent Health, the region’s oldest and most experienced rehabilitation provider; Pine Pointe, Navicent Health, which provides palliative and hospice care in homes and in its facility; Carlyle Place, Navicent Health, the area’s first continuing care retirement community; Navicent Health Foundation, the philanthropic arm of Navicent Health; as well as diagnostic and home care services. For more information, please visit www.navicenthealth.org.

publicrelations@navicenthealth.org

Community Health Organizations Unite to Combat Deadly Opioids

August 24, 2017 5:09 pm

August 24, 2017 5:09 pm

Area healthcare providers are uniting to alert the central Georgia region of a cluster of opioid overdoses that have occurred within the past 48 hours.

The Georgia Department of Public Health (DPH) and Georgia Poison Control - along with area health systems including Coliseum Medical Centers, Coliseum Northside Hospital, Houston Healthcare and Navicent Health - have become aware of a dangerous, potentially lethal substance contained in street drugs surfacing in central and south Georgia. Multiple patients have been hospitalized and there are reports of deaths that may be associated with the drugs. Confirmation is pending.

The overdoses have been reported over a 48-hour period in Bibb and Houston Counties, as well as Albany. The drugs may be sold on the street. Patients reportedly purchased yellow pills alleged to be Percocet, an opioid pain medication. The substance has not yet been identified but it is extremely potent and has required massive doses of naloxone (Narcan) to counteract its effects. According to DPH, testing is being done to identify the pills and the ingredients.

As this situation develops, area health systems would like to remind the public of the following:

• It is never safe to purchase street drugs, including those sold as prescription pills.

• It is never safe to ingest or inject a substance if not under a physician’s care.

• Parents and guardians should take measures to protect their children. Know who your children are with, know where they will be, know what they will be doing.

• When under the influence of substance, it is impossible to know the ramifications or health effects of that substance on your body.

• If you suspect you have taken or if you believe someone else has used one of these pills CALL 911 IMMEDIATELY.

First responders say patients are unconscious or unresponsive and have difficulty breathing or have stopped breathing. Many patients need to be placed on ventilators.

Opioid overdose is a very dangerous condition that can result in permanent physical and mental damage or even death if medical treatment is not administered right away.

Additional information from DPH may be obtained at 1-866-PUB-HLTH or dph.georgia.gov.

About Coliseum Health System

Owned by Hospital Corporation of America (HCA), Coliseum Health System is comprised of Coliseum Medical Centers and Coliseum Northside Hospital, two medical/surgical campuses with a total of 413 beds. The hospitals feature an expansive range of state-of-the-art services designed to meet the comprehensive medical needs of central Georgia. Both facilities include a 24-hour emergency room, inpatient and outpatient surgery options, rehabilitation programs, and diagnostic services. In addition, Coliseum Health System’s breadth of care options includes specialty facilities such as the Coliseum Heart Institute, an advanced cardiac center offering all services from non-invasive cardiology to open heart surgery, Coliseum Primary Stroke Center, Coliseum Orthopaedic & Spine Institute, Coliseum Cancer Institute, Coliseum Robotic Institute, Georgia Bariatric Center, Coliseum Rehabilitation Center, and the Family Ties Birthing Center, which includes a level III neonatal nursery. Additionally, the Coliseum Center for Behavioral Health, located at Coliseum Medical Centers, provides treatment to adults with psychiatric and addiction issues through inpatient and outpatient programs, as well as, a specialty program for senior adults. For more information about Coliseum Health System, visit: http://coliseumhealthsystem.com
About Houston Healthcare

Houston Healthcare continues to serve one of the fastest growing counties in the state of Georgia. Houston Medical Center, a 237-bed facility, and Perry Hospital, a 45-bed facility, are dedicated to providing quality care to the communities we serve. Along with our two medical centers, Houston Healthcare operates The Surgery Center, Houston Heart Institute, Houston Lake Rehab, Pavilion Rehab, the Houston Health Pavilion, and three urgent care facilities – Houston Lake, Lake Joy and Pavilion Med-Stops. The Pavilion Family Medicine Center (PFMC) is home to the Residency Program where eighteen Resident Physicians provide care for the PFMC and Houston Medical, along with enhancing their knowledge and skills as a physician. We are proud of our accomplishments and awards, but it’s the 2,400 employees that make up our System that truly make a difference in the lives of our patients each day.

About Navicent Health

Navicent Health was incorporated on November 17, 1994, as a nonprofit corporation whose primary purpose is to coordinate the Medical Center, Navicent Health and other affiliated entities in their mission of providing a comprehensive continuum of high quality, reasonably priced healthcare services to the region. Navicent Health has 830 beds for medical, surgical, rehabilitation and hospice purposes. The health system includes The Medical Center, Navicent Health, a nationally recognized tertiary teaching hospital; Children’s Hospital, Navicent Health, the region’s only dedicated pediatric hospital; Medical Center of Peach County, Navicent Health, a rural critical access hospital; Rehabilitation Hospital, Navicent Health, the region’s oldest and most experienced rehabilitation provider; Pine Pointe, Navicent Health, which provides palliative and hospice care in homes and in its facility; Carlyle Place, Navicent Health, the area’s first continuing care retirement community; Navicent Health Foundation, the philanthropic arm of Navicent Health; as well as diagnostic and home care services. For more information, please visit www.navicenthealth.org.

publicrelations@navicenthealth.org

Navicent Health to Host Camp for Children, Families Affected by Asthma

August 25, 2017 10:06 am

August 25, 2017 10:06 am

In an effort to assist children and families affected by asthma, Children’s Hospital, Navicent Health (CHNH) will host its second annual asthma awareness summer camp. Camp Open Airways will be held on Saturday, June 10, 8:30 a.m. – 2:00 p.m., at Middle Georgia State University, 100 University Parkway, Macon.

“In Georgia, an estimated 1 in 10 children have asthma, and children under the age of nine account for 36 percent of asthma-related emergency room visits. Asthma can be a serious and sometimes life threatening condition, but with proper management, its effects can be minimized. Through Camp Open Airways, we hope to educate children and families on daily and long term management of asthma,” said Valerie Fox, RRT, Clinical Educator for Navicent Health and Director of Camp Open Airways.

Camp Open Airways is designed with the entire family in mind. While children diagnosed with asthma participate in fun activities that teach asthma management, parents and guardians will participate in a workshop with Navicent Health physicians and clinicians. Childcare for siblings not affected by asthma will also be offered. Thanks to the generosity of the W.G. Raoul Foundation and Navicent Health Foundation, Camp Open Airways will be offered at no charge to families.

“No child should ever have to suffer the serious or life-threatening effects of an asthma attack, and no parent should ever know the fear of watching their child suffer. Asthma self-management education is a critical step in the prevention of asthma attacks. Navicent Health Foundation is pleased to partner with Children’s Hospital, Navicent Health and the Raoul Foundation to offer this wonderful camp,” said Ellen Terrell, Chief Development Officer of Navicent Health Foundation.

Asthma is a lifelong condition that causes wheezing, breathlessness, chest tightness and coughing. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), approximately half of those affected by asthma have an asthma attack each year. The CDC has also noted that children with asthma miss more days of school than children without asthma, and that, nationally, asthma-related trips to the emergency room can cost up to $28 million annually. People with asthma can control their symptoms and prevent asthma attacks by avoiding asthma triggers and correctly using prescribed medications.

To register for Camp Open Airways, visit www.navicenthealth.org/airways or call 478-633-2965.

About Navicent Health

Navicent Health was incorporated on November 17, 1994, as a nonprofit corporation whose primary purpose is to coordinate the Medical Center, Navicent Health and other affiliated entities in their mission of providing a comprehensive continuum of high quality, reasonably priced healthcare services to the region. Navicent Health has 830 beds for medical, surgical, rehabilitation and hospice purposes. The health system includes The Medical Center, Navicent Health, a nationally recognized tertiary teaching hospital; Children’s Hospital, Navicent Health, the region’s only dedicated pediatric hospital; Medical Center of Peach County, Navicent Health, a rural critical access hospital; Rehabilitation Hospital, Navicent Health, the region’s oldest and most experienced rehabilitation provider; Pine Pointe, Navicent Health, which provides palliative and hospice care in homes and in its facility; Carlyle Place, Navicent Health, the area’s first continuing care retirement community; Navicent Health Foundation, the philanthropic arm of Navicent Health; as well as diagnostic and home care services. For more information, please visit www.navicenthealth.org.

publicrelations@navicenthealth.org

Registration Open for Camp Fun n Fit

August 25, 2017 10:09 am

August 25, 2017 10:09 am

Registration is now open for Camp Fun n’ Fit, an annual health and fitness summer day camp for children ages 6-11. Camp Fun n’ Fit is designed to promote healthy, active lifestyles by encouraging campers to participate in activities that are fun and playful, including swimming, Zumba, yoga, sports and games. Campers will also learn about proper nutrition and participate in weekly field trips.

The camp – sponsored by Wellness Center, Navicent Health – will take place weekdays June 5-30 from 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. at Middle Georgia State University (100 University Parkway, Macon). Children may attend one, two, three or all four weeks of the camp. The cost is $165.00 per week and the registration fee includes all field trips, classes, supplies, daily lunch and snacks, and a t-shirt.

To register, pick up a registration form at Wellness Center, Navicent Health (3797 Northside Drive, Macon) or visit www.navicenthealth.org/wellnesscenter.

“Studies show that children who build healthy habits early in life lead healthier lives as they age, minimizing their chances for obesity and conditions associated with obesity, including diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease and stroke. Camp Fun n’ Fit trains children to make those healthy choices, encouraging active lifestyles and good nutritional habits,” said Kevin Carter, Director of Wellness Services, Navicent Health.

About Navicent Health

Navicent Health was incorporated on November 17, 1994, as a nonprofit corporation whose primary purpose is to coordinate the Medical Center, Navicent Health and other affiliated entities in their mission of providing a comprehensive continuum of high quality, reasonably priced healthcare services to the region. Navicent Health has 830 beds for medical, surgical, rehabilitation and hospice purposes. The health system includes The Medical Center, Navicent Health, a nationally recognized tertiary teaching hospital; Children’s Hospital, Navicent Health, the region’s only dedicated pediatric hospital; Medical Center of Peach County, Navicent Health, a rural critical access hospital; Rehabilitation Hospital, Navicent Health, the region’s oldest and most experienced rehabilitation provider; Pine Pointe, Navicent Health, which provides palliative and hospice care in homes and in its facility; Carlyle Place, Navicent Health, the area’s first continuing care retirement community; Navicent Health Foundation, the philanthropic arm of Navicent Health; as well as diagnostic and home care services. For more information, please visit www.navicenthealth.org.

publicrelations@navicenthealth.org

Navicent Health Recognizes Employees for Years of Service

August 25, 2017 10:13 am

August 25, 2017 10:13 am

Navicent Health recently recognized 659 employees for their dedication and years of service at Navicent Health’s 57th Annual Employee Recognition Banquet, held on Tuesday, May 9 at the Macon Centreplex.

Numerous employees were honored for five, 10, 15, 20, 25, 30 and 35 years of service. The following employees received special recognition for their dedication:

• Janice Garrett, 46 Years at The Medical Center, Navicent Health

• Cindy Bankston, 40 Years at The Medical Center, Navicent Health

• Bobbi Googe, 40 Years at Navicent Health

• Debbie Harville, 40 Years at Navicent Health

• Ceres Samonte, 40 Years at The Medical Center, Navicent Health

• Sandra Young, 40 Years at Anderson Health Center, Navicent Health

“The most important part of our health system is our people. Without a doubt, Navicent Health has one of the finest staffs of any health system, and we celebrate our employees and their continued dedication to the health of our community,” said Dr. Ninfa M. Saunders, President and CEO of Navicent Health.

Along with an awards presentation, the evening included a cocktail reception, catered dinner and musical performances.

About Navicent Health

Navicent Health was incorporated on November 17, 1994, as a nonprofit corporation whose primary purpose is to coordinate the Medical Center, Navicent Health and other affiliated entities in their mission of providing a comprehensive continuum of high quality, reasonably priced healthcare services to the region. Navicent Health has 830 beds for medical, surgical, rehabilitation and hospice purposes. The health system includes The Medical Center, Navicent Health, a nationally recognized tertiary teaching hospital; Children’s Hospital, Navicent Health, the region’s only dedicated pediatric hospital; Medical Center of Peach County, Navicent Health, a rural critical access hospital; Rehabilitation Hospital, Navicent Health, the region’s oldest and most experienced rehabilitation provider; Pine Pointe, Navicent Health, which provides palliative and hospice care in homes and in its facility; Carlyle Place, Navicent Health, the area’s first continuing care retirement community; Navicent Health Foundation, the philanthropic arm of Navicent Health; as well as diagnostic and home care services. For more information, please visit www.navicenthealth.org.

publicrelations@navicenthealth.org

HIMSS Analytics Honors Navicent Health with Stage 6 Recognition

August 25, 2017 10:25 am

August 25, 2017 10:25 am

HIMSS Analytics has announced that 20 Navicent Health outpatient sites have achieved Stage 6 on the Electronic Medical Record (EMR) Adoption ModelSM. Navicent Health is known as a leader in health systems technology, including the adoption of EMR to ensure patient safety, quality and continuity of care.

“In order to reach Stage 6 designation, our Information Technology department and our outpatient facilities worked tirelessly together to implement electronic medical records that include full physician documentation, including progress notes, consult notes and discharge summaries. We have also worked to integrate a full range of electronic medical images, displacing film-based images, to provide timely access to needed information. The purpose of this implementation is to improve access to timely, quality care and therefore keep the patient at the center of all that we do,” said Omer Awan, Chief Information Officer for Navicent Health.

As of April 2017, only 8,202 outpatient facilities in the U.S. boast a Stage 6 designation.

HIMSS Analytics developed the Outpatient EMR Adoption ModelSM in 2012 as a methodology for evaluating the progress and impact of EMR systems for ambulatory facilities in the HIMSS Analytics® LOGIC™. Tracking their progress in completing eight stages (0-7), ambulatory sites can review the implementation and utilization of information technology applications with the intent of reaching Stage 7, which represents an advanced electronic patient record environment.

Stage 6 ambulatory facilities share the following attributes:

• Have made significant executive commitments and investments to reach this stage.

• Appear to have a significant advantage over competitors for patient safety, clinician support, clinician recruitment, and competitive marketing for both consumers and nurse recruitment.

• Have almost fully automated/paperless medical records when they have implemented their IT applications across most of the outpatient care settings.

• Are either starting to evaluate their data for care delivery process improvements or have already documented significant improvements in this area.

• Have made investments that are within reach of most clinics and recognize the strategic value of improving patient care with the EMR.

• Have begun to create strategic alignments with their medical staff to effectively utilize information technology to improve patient engagement and population health

• Are well positioned to provide data to key stakeholders, such as payers, the government, physicians, consumers, and employers, to support electronic health record environments and health information exchanges.

Stage 6 organizations also have achieved a significant advancement in their IT capabilities that positions them to successfully address many of the current industry transformations, such as meaningful use criteria in the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, claims attachments for the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act, pay for performance, and government quality reporting programs.

“This milestone represents Navicent Health’s commitment to providing the highest level of care to our patients and our partners through safety, clinical excellence, cost excellence and service excellence. Navicent Health continues to lead the industry amid technological advances and healthcare reform,” said Christopher Hendry, M.D., Chief Medical Officer for Navicent Health.

“HIMSS Analytics congratulates Navicent Health for making significant progress towards achieving advanced health IT adoption,” said John H. Daniels, CNM, FACHE, FHIMSS, CPHIMS, Global Vice President, HIMSS Analytics. “Stage 6 represents a level of sophistication that can lead to innovative healthcare transformation.”

About Navicent Health

Navicent Health was incorporated on November 17, 1994, as a nonprofit corporation whose primary purpose is to coordinate the Medical Center, Navicent Health and other affiliated entities in their mission of providing a comprehensive continuum of high quality, reasonably priced healthcare services to the region. Navicent Health has 830 beds for medical, surgical, rehabilitation and hospice purposes. The health system includes The Medical Center, Navicent Health, a nationally recognized tertiary teaching hospital; Children’s Hospital, Navicent Health, the region’s only dedicated pediatric hospital; Medical Center of Peach County, Navicent Health, a rural critical access hospital; Rehabilitation Hospital, Navicent Health, the region’s oldest and most experienced rehabilitation provider; Pine Pointe, Navicent Health, which provides palliative and hospice care in homes and in its facility; Carlyle Place, Navicent Health, the area’s first continuing care retirement community; Navicent Health Foundation, the philanthropic arm of Navicent Health; as well as diagnostic and home care services. For more information, please visit www.navicenthealth.org.

About HIMSS Analytics

HIMSS Analytics is a global healthcare advisor, providing guidance and market intelligence solutions that move the industry forward with insight to enable better health through the use of IT. As a trusted healthcare research and advisory firm, the industry depends on HIMSS Analytics’ resources, benchmarks, predictive models and assessment tools to improve decision making regarding their IT strategic roadmap and market strategy. HIMSS Analytics is uniquely positioned and differentiated through its industry focused offerings which include its Healthcare IT market intelligence tool, Healthcare IT insights and Healthcare IT benchmarks and services. The LOGIC market intelligence tool has the largest technology data set with unmatched breadth and depth needed for guiding healthcare IT strategies. HIMSS Analytics research and advisory consultants uncover unique insights on how to optimally use IT to tackle today’s healthcare challenges faced by both healthcare delivery organizations and IT companies. Its EMR Adoption Model (EMRAM) provides a strategic roadmap and guidance along an 8-stage model with comparisons to healthcare organizations in the same country and around the world. HIMSS Analytics, a wholly owned subsidiary of HIMSS, is the healthcare research and advisory firm for healthcare delivery organizations, IT companies, governmental entities, and financial, pharmaceutical, consulting and emerging technology solution partners worldwide. Learn more at himssanalytics.org.
publicrelations@navicenthealth.org

Hospital Volunteers Raise Over $112,000 for Hospital Projects

August 28, 2017 3:51 pm

August 28, 2017 3:51 pm

The Medical Center, Navicent Health (MCNH) extends its gratitude to its dedicated volunteers and would like to thank them for their tireless efforts to support patient care in 2016.

Through fundraisers held at MCNH, volunteers raised $112,385.00 in 2016. Funds have been designated for a variety of purposes, primarily with the intent of supporting patients and their loved ones with comforts and conveniences. Projects funded through volunteer efforts include:

• The purchase of two tablets for Navicent Health’s Interpreting Services department, to assist patients with Limited English Proficiency and those communicating through American Sign Language.

• The funding of five scholarships for college students pursuing allied health degrees.

• The funding of four scholarships to the Georgia Hospital Association Youth Camp.

• The funding of a support program for families with patients in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit at MCNH, to include scrapbooking supplies to mark important milestones in baby’s development.

Volunteers host vendor sales throughout the year that are open to Navicent Health employees and the public, including jewelry and accessory sales, book sales, electronic sales, and outerwear sales. In addition to raising funds, volunteers also donated 8,760 hours of their time in 2016 to assist with patient care and satisfaction.

“Our volunteers are an integral part of The Medical Center, Navicent Health. Their support makes it possible for us to achieve so much more than we could on our own, and they are able to add that extra touch of kindness for our patients and visitors,” said Missi Upshaw, Director of Volunteer Services for MCNH.

Navicent Health is currently accepting volunteer applications for a variety of positions. Those interested in volunteering should contact Navicent Health’s Office of Public Relations at 478.633.1353 or visit www.navicenthealth.org/community.

About Navicent Health

Navicent Health was incorporated on November 17, 1994, as a nonprofit corporation whose primary purpose is to coordinate the Medical Center, Navicent Health and other affiliated entities in their mission of providing a comprehensive continuum of high quality, reasonably priced healthcare services to the region. Navicent Health has 830 beds for medical, surgical, rehabilitation and hospice purposes. The health system includes The Medical Center, Navicent Health, a nationally recognized tertiary teaching hospital; Children’s Hospital, Navicent Health, the region’s only dedicated pediatric hospital; Medical Center of Peach County, Navicent Health, a rural critical access hospital; Rehabilitation Hospital, Navicent Health, the region’s oldest and most experienced rehabilitation provider; Pine Pointe, Navicent Health, which provides palliative and hospice care in homes and in its facility; Carlyle Place, Navicent Health, the area’s first continuing care retirement community; Navicent Health Foundation, the philanthropic arm of Navicent Health; as well as diagnostic and home care services. For more information, please visit www.navicenthealth.org.

publicrelations@navicenthealth.org

Macon Newborn Gets College Savings Contribution for Birthday Present as Navicents First Tax Day Baby

August 28, 2017 3:56 pm

August 28, 2017 3:56 pm

This morning at 12:16 am made his debut in the world. Before he was even a day old, Logan Zaphod Alligood-Breeden was awarded a $1,529 contribution to his Path2College 529 Plan account to celebrate him as the first baby born on tax day at The Medical Center, Navicent Health.

This is the second year that Navicent Health and Path2College have partnered to recognize “Tax Day” babies in an effort to raise awareness about the importance of saving for college and financial planning.

“It is such a pleasure to welcome little Logan Zaphod Alligood-Breeden to the world by investing in his education. I personally believe that education is vital to an individual’s success. As an organization, Navicent Health participates in a number of initiatives to promotes the education and continued learning of our employees as well as those within the communities we serve. We are pleased to partner with Path2College to navigate Logan Zaphod Alligood-Breeden towards a path to success,” said Dr. Ninfa M. Saunders, President and CEO of Navicent Health.

Northside Hospital in Atlanta and Memorial University Medical Center in Savannah also recognize “Tax Day Babies” each year by awarding the first “Tax Day” baby with a college savings contribution.

“When families welcome a new baby, it is often an overwhelming time with new responsibilities and challenges, and college seems like it’s too far away to think about,” said Mitch Seabaugh, executive director of the Path2College 529 Plan. “But, as those of us that have raised children know, the time goes by quickly, and college will be here before they know it. Saving small amounts over time can have a tremendous impact, and that’s why we want to reach out to new parents and encourage them to create a financial plan to help pay for their child’s future education today.”

In addition to recognizing the first “Tax Day” baby, the Path2College 529 Plan also kicked-off the statewide 2017 Newborn Sweepstakes, where Georgia families who have a baby this year can enter for a chance to win a $5,529 contribution toward a child’s or grandchild’s college savings. The Path2College 529 Plan will also award $1,529 to the hospital where the Newborn Sweepstakes winner was born.

“Hopefully when parents and grandparents go online to enter the Newborn Sweepstakes, they will take some time to learn the state’s Path2College 529 Plan and its tax advantages and take a few minutes to open an account to help with the future cost of their loved one’s education related expenses,” said Seabaugh.

Parents, grandparents and guardians of Georgia babies born in 2017 may go to www.Path2College529.com until April 14, 2018, for official rules, prize details and to enter for a chance to win the 2017 Newborn Sweepstakes. Entrants must be legal residents or taxpayers to Georgia and at least 18 years of age to enter. No purchase necessary. Void where prohibited. Sponsored by the Path2College 529 Plan.

This is the seventh year Path2College 529 Plan has held its Newborn Sweepstakes. The 2011, 2013, 2014 and 2015 winners were born at Northside Hospital in Atlanta, and the 2012 winner was born at Doctors Hospital in Augusta. The 2016 winner will be announced soon.

For more information about the Path2College 529 Plan or to enter the 2016 Newborn Sweepstakes, please visit www.Path2College.com or call (877) 424-4377.

Consider the investment objectives, risks, charges and expenses before investing in the Path2College 529 Plan. Visit www.path2college529.com for a Plan Disclosure Booklet containing this and other information. Please read it carefully. Before investing in a 529 plan, you should consider whether the state you or your beneficiary reside in or have taxable income in has a 529 plan that offers favorable state income tax or other benefits that are only available if you invest in that state’s 529 plan. Taxpayers should seek advice from an independent tax advisor based on their own particular circumstances. Non-qualified withdrawals may be subject to federal and state taxes and the additional 10% federal tax. Account value for the investment options is not guaranteed and will fluctuate based upon a number of factors, including general market conditions. TIAA-CREF Tuition Financing, Inc., Program Manager. TIAA-CREF Individual & Institutional Services, LLC, member FINRA, distributor and underwriter for the Path2College 529 Plan.

publicrelations@navicenthealth.org

Laboratory at Medical Center of Peach County Nationally Accredited

August 28, 2017 4:05 pm

August 28, 2017 4:05 pm

The Accreditation Committee of the College of American Pathologists (CAP) has awarded accreditation to the Department of Clinical Laboratory Services at Medical Center of Peach County, Navicent Health (MCPC). The accreditation is based on the results of a recent on-site inspection as part of CAP’s Accreditation Programs. MCPC becomes one of more than 7,700 CAP-accredited facilities worldwide.

“At the Medical Center of Peach County, we set high standards for ourselves for excellence in patient care. Our lab’s accreditation by the globally recognized College of American Pathologists is testament to the tremendous care our laboratory managers and technicians provide for each of our patients,” said Darren Pearce, Chief Administrative Officer for MCPC.

During the CAP accreditation process, designed to ensure the highest standards of care for all laboratory patients, inspectors examine the laboratory’s records and quality control of procedures for the preceding two years. CAP inspectors also examine laboratory staff qualifications, equipment, facilities, safety program and record, and overall management. The U.S. federal government recognizes the CAP Laboratory Accreditation Program as being equal to or more stringent than the government’s own inspection program.

“Our lab team went through a very rigorous process in order to achieve this accreditation, and we are so pleased that they have been recognized for the caliber of their work. Our patients know they are in good hands, receiving high quality care close to home, when they visit Medical Center of Peach County,” said Gene Battles, M.D., pathologist with MCPC’s Department of Clinical Laboratory Services.

MCPC, located at 1960 Hwy 247 Connector in Byron, provides the residents of Peach and surrounding counties access to a new, modern, 25-bed hospital offering emergency care, an operating room suite, numerous diagnostic and outpatient services and all-private rooms. The hospital was constructed and opened in 2013, after Peach Regional Medical Center partnered with Navicent Health.

The lab at MCPC operates around the clock, seven days per week, in order to serve patients with convenient access to care. No appointments are necessary, walk-ins are welcome. Patient’s must present a doctor’s order for lab work and a photo ID.

About the College of American Pathologists

As the leading organization with more than 18,000 board-certified pathologists, the College of American Pathologists (CAP) servespatients, pathologists and the public by fostering and advocating excellence in the practice of pathology and laboratory medicine worldwide. The CAP’s Laboratory Improvement Programs, initiated 65 years ago, currently have customers in more than 100 countries, accrediting 7,700 laboratories and providing proficiency testing to 20,000 laboratories worldwide. Find more information about the CAP at cap.org. Follow CAP on Twitter: @pathologists.

About Navicent Health

Navicent Health was incorporated on November 17, 1994, as a nonprofit corporation whose primary purpose is to coordinate the Medical Center, Navicent Health and other affiliated entities in their mission of providing a comprehensive continuum of high quality, reasonably priced healthcare services to the region. Navicent Health has 830 beds for medical, surgical, rehabilitation and hospice purposes. The health system includes The Medical Center, Navicent Health, a nationally recognized tertiary teaching hospital; Children’s Hospital, Navicent Health, the region’s only dedicated pediatric hospital; Medical Center of Peach County, Navicent Health, a rural critical access hospital; Rehabilitation Hospital, Navicent Health, the region’s oldest and most experienced rehabilitation provider; Pine Pointe, Navicent Health, which provides palliative and hospice care in homes and in its facility; Carlyle Place, Navicent Health, the area’s first continuing care retirement community; Navicent Health Foundation, the philanthropic arm of Navicent Health; as well as diagnostic and home care services. For more information, please visit www.navicenthealth.org.

publicrelations@navicenthealth.org

Free Family Fun Day Saturday, April 8 at Peyton Anderson Cancer Center

August 28, 2017 4:21 pm

August 28, 2017 4:21 pm

Peyton Anderson Cancer Center, Navicent Health (PACC) invites the community for a free day of family fun on Saturday, April 8. Free Family Fun Day will be held at PACC (800 First Street) from 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. Parking is available in Navicent Health’s Blue Parking Deck on Hemlock Street.

This day of family fun will include carnival food such as hot dogs and cotton candy, activities for children of all ages and appearances by Disney princesses, Macon Mayhem mascot “Mack,” Mercer University mascot “Toby,” and Mercer University cheerleaders. In addition, Navicent Health will offer free health screenings, including body mass index, blood pressure, glucose and PSA screenings.

Since 2014, PACC has provided central Georgians with access to the latest in outpatient oncology services. The state-of-the-art PACC allows cancer patients to access numerous diagnostic and treatment options in a single location and close to home, allowing cancer treatment to be easily accessed, more affordable and more convenient for patients and caregivers.

About Navicent Health

Navicent Health was incorporated on November 17, 1994, as a nonprofit corporation whose primary purpose is to coordinate the Medical Center, Navicent Health and other affiliated entities in their mission of providing a comprehensive continuum of high quality, reasonably priced healthcare services to the region. Navicent Health has 830 beds for medical, surgical, rehabilitation and hospice purposes. The health system includes The Medical Center, Navicent Health, a nationally recognized tertiary teaching hospital; Children’s Hospital, Navicent Health, the region’s only dedicated pediatric hospital; Medical Center of Peach County, Navicent Health, a rural critical access hospital; Rehabilitation Hospital, Navicent Health, the region’s oldest and most experienced rehabilitation provider; Pine Pointe, Navicent Health, which provides palliative and hospice care in homes and in its facility; Carlyle Place, Navicent Health, the area’s first continuing care retirement community; Navicent Health Foundation, the philanthropic arm of Navicent Health; as well as diagnostic and home care services. For more information, please visit www.navicenthealth.org.

publicrelations@navicenthealth.org

Navicent Health Offers Breastfeeding Support to New Mothers, Families

August 28, 2017 4:24 pm

August 28, 2017 4:24 pm

Navicent Health is pleased to offer a weekly breastfeeding support group for new and expecting mothers and their families. The support group meets twice per week, on Tuesdays and Saturdays, at 2:00 p.m. at Wellness Center, Navicent Health (3797 Northside Drive, Macon).

Mothers who participate in the support group will not only benefit from peer support, but also receive guidance from Navicent Health’s lactation specialists, participate in baby weigh-ins, and receive answers for their questions.

For more information on the breastfeeding support group, mothers may call 478-633-2771.

According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, human breast milk is preferred for all infants, including those who are sick or premature. Recent studies have shown that babies who are breastfed exclusively for six months are less likely to develop ear infections, stomach viruses, respiratory illnesses and meningitis. Breastfed babies are also less likely to develop illnesses later in life, including childhood obesity, high cholesterol, allergies, diabetes, and childhood cancers. Studies have also shown that breastfeeding reduces the risk of breast and ovarian cancers for the mother, and creates a strong bond between the mother and child.

“When we look at the multiple benefits of breastfeeding for both the infant and the mother, it is easy to see why we should encourage mothers to breastfeed, and encourage families to create environments conducive for breastfeeding,” said Lee McWilliams, BSN, RN, and board certified Lactation Consultant with The Medical Center, Navicent Health.

In 2016, The Medical Center, Navicent Health was awarded the International Board of Lactation Consultant Examiners® (IBLCE®) and International Lactation Consultant Association® (ILCA®) IBCLC Care Award for providing a lactation program for breastfeeding families. In addition, MCNH demonstrated that is has recently completed activities that help protect, promote, and support breastfeeding.

About Navicent Health

Navicent Health was incorporated on November 17, 1994, as a nonprofit corporation whose primary purpose is to coordinate the Medical Center, Navicent Health and other affiliated entities in their mission of providing a comprehensive continuum of high quality, reasonably priced healthcare services to the region. Navicent Health has 830 beds for medical, surgical, rehabilitation and hospice purposes. The health system includes The Medical Center, Navicent Health, a nationally recognized tertiary teaching hospital; Children’s Hospital, Navicent Health, the region’s only dedicated pediatric hospital; Medical Center of Peach County, Navicent Health, a rural critical access hospital; Rehabilitation Hospital, Navicent Health, the region’s oldest and most experienced rehabilitation provider; Pine Pointe, Navicent Health, which provides palliative and hospice care in homes and in its facility; Carlyle Place, Navicent Health, the area’s first continuing care retirement community; Navicent Health Foundation, the philanthropic arm of Navicent Health; as well as diagnostic and home care services. For more information, please visit www.navicenthealth.org.

publicrelations@navicenthealth.org

Organ Donation Encouraged during April, National Donate Life Month

August 28, 2017 4:27 pm

August 28, 2017 4:27 pm

This April, during National Donate Life Month, Navicent Health celebrates the lives of those who have received a second chance at life, as well as the contributions of those who make transplants possible – organ, tissue and eye donors. The health system also recognizes the approximately 5,500 Georgians who are awaiting needed transplants.

“At Navicent Health, we encourage the members of our community to commit to becoming an organ donor. One organ and tissue donor may save or enhance up to 75 lives. Passing along the gift of life to someone in need is a beautiful act,” said Dr. Christopher Hendry, Chief Medical Officer for MCNH.

The Medical Center, Navicent Health (MCNH) conducts annual awareness and registration campaigns in order to educate staff, patients, visitors and the community about the critical need for organ, eye and tissue donors. By doing so, MCNH assists in increasing the number of potential donors on Georgia’s Organ and Tissue Donor Registry. In 2016, MCNH received LifeLink of Georgia’s Platinum Recognition for its efforts. “Each year we work together with community partners to inform Georgians about the importance of organ and tissue donation. During Donate Life Month and every month, we share vital information about organ and tissue donation throughout the state and encourage every Georgian to learn the facts and commit to saving lives,” said Kathleen Lilly, Executive Director of LifeLink of Georgia.

Donation Fast Facts:

• Organ donors are not limited by medical history, age, sex, race or ethnicity.

• All major religions support donation as a lifesaving act of generosity and compassion.

• Saving lives as an organ and tissue donor places no financial burden on the donor’s estate or family.

• Approximately 28,000 transplants are made possible annually thanks to living and deceased donors.

• Every 10 minutes, another person is added to the national transplant waiting list.

• Approximately 22 people die daily because they do not receive an organ in time.

Becoming a donor is simple. To register your decision to be an organ, tissue and eye donor, take one of the following steps:

• Visit Donate Life Georgia’s Organ and Tissue Donor Registry at www.donatelifegeorgia.org.

• Call 1-866-57-SHARE (74273).

• Say YES to donation when you apply for or renew your driver license or state identification card through Georgia’s Department of Driver Services.

About Navicent Health

Navicent Health was incorporated on November 17, 1994, as a nonprofit corporation whose primary purpose is to coordinate the Medical Center, Navicent Health and other affiliated entities in their mission of providing a comprehensive continuum of high quality, reasonably priced healthcare services to the region. Navicent Health has 830 beds for medical, surgical, rehabilitation and hospice purposes. The health system includes The Medical Center, Navicent Health, a nationally recognized tertiary teaching hospital; Children’s Hospital, Navicent Health, the region’s only dedicated pediatric hospital; Medical Center of Peach County, Navicent Health, a rural critical access hospital; Rehabilitation Hospital, Navicent Health, the region’s oldest and most experienced rehabilitation provider; Pine Pointe, Navicent Health, which provides palliative and hospice care in homes and in its facility; Carlyle Place, Navicent Health, the area’s first continuing care retirement community; Navicent Health Foundation, the philanthropic arm of Navicent Health; as well as diagnostic and home care services. For more information, please visit www.navicenthealth.org.

publicrelations@navicenthealth.org

Community Partners Host Annual Child Abuse Prevention Symposium on April 12

August 28, 2017 3:59 pm

August 28, 2017 3:59 pm

Each April – in recognition of Child Abuse Prevention Month – Crescent House, Navicent Health encourages discussion of this important issue through an annual Child Abuse Prevention Symposium.

The Child Abuse Prevention Symposium, scheduled Wednesday, April 12 from 8:00 a.m. until 4:30 p.m., will take place at The Medical Center, Navicent Health’s Peyton Anderson Health Education Center, located at 877 Hemlock Street in Macon.

Topics at this year’s symposium include Prosecuting Child Molesters, Normal Stuff that Isn’t Abuse, Mandated Reporter Training, and Inappropriate Sexual Behaviors of Children. The keynote message is “The Mess Became My Message: From Heartache to Hope!”

This event is open to the public. Law enforcement, social workers, medical professionals and educators are particularly encouraged to attend. Participants may register at www.navicenthealth.org ($30 registration fee).

The Honorable Robert A.B. Reichert, Mayor of Macon-Bibb County, will read a proclamation at 9:00 a.m. declaring the consolidated government’s commitment to support children and families by ending the cycle of abuse and neglect.

“April is a time to recognize that each member of the community has a role in promoting the social and emotional wellbeing of children and families. Ending the cycle of abuse and neglect is an effort that requires the vigilance of all members of our community. Crescent House and Navicent Health are pleased to partner with Macon-Bibb County, as well as the Board of Education, Department of Family and Children’s Services, District Attorney’s Office, local law enforcement and public safety agencies and healthcare organizations to address this issue,” said Kemberlie Sanderson, Director of Crescent House, Navicent Health.

Since beginning services in 1997, Crescent House, Navicent Health – a children’s advocacy center designed to meet the needs of children who have made allegations of abuse – has cared for approximately 11,000 children. Crescent House is not a shelter but a facility supplied with state-of-the-art equipment that enables specially trained professionals to conduct effective, consistent, non-threatening interviews and examinations of children who have made these allegations. It is a “one-stop shop,” utilizing a multidisciplinary team approach to the investigation, treatment and prevention of child abuse.

Exchange Club of Macon and Crescent House partner to sponsor the annual Child Abuse Prevention Symposium.

About Navicent Health

Navicent Health was incorporated on November 17, 1994, as a nonprofit corporation whose primary purpose is to coordinate the Medical Center, Navicent Health and other affiliated entities in their mission of providing a comprehensive continuum of high quality, reasonably priced healthcare services to the region. Navicent Health has 830 beds for medical, surgical, rehabilitation and hospice purposes. The health system includes The Medical Center, Navicent Health, a nationally recognized tertiary teaching hospital; Children’s Hospital, Navicent Health, the region’s only dedicated pediatric hospital; Medical Center of Peach County, Navicent Health, a rural critical access hospital; Rehabilitation Hospital, Navicent Health, the region’s oldest and most experienced rehabilitation provider; Pine Pointe, Navicent Health, which provides palliative and hospice care in homes and in its facility; Carlyle Place, Navicent Health, the area’s first continuing care retirement community; Navicent Health Foundation, the philanthropic arm of Navicent Health; as well as diagnostic and home care services. For more information, please visit www.navicenthealth.org.

publicrelations@navicenthealth.org

Community Partners Host Annual Child Abuse Prevention Symposium on April 12

August 30, 2017 3:24 pm

August 30, 2017 3:24 pm

Each April – in recognition of Child Abuse Prevention Month – Crescent House, Navicent Health encourages discussion of this important issue through an annual Child Abuse Prevention Symposium.

The Child Abuse Prevention Symposium, scheduled Wednesday, April 12 from 8:00 a.m. until 4:30 p.m., will take place at The Medical Center, Navicent Health’s Peyton Anderson Health Education Center, located at 877 Hemlock Street in Macon.

Topics at this year’s symposium include Prosecuting Child Molesters, Normal Stuff that Isn’t Abuse, Mandated Reporter Training, and Inappropriate Sexual Behaviors of Children. The keynote message is “The Mess Became My Message: From Heartache to Hope!”

This event is open to the public. Law enforcement, social workers, medical professionals and educators are particularly encouraged to attend. Participants may register at www.navicenthealth.org ($30 registration fee).

The Honorable Robert A.B. Reichert, Mayor of Macon-Bibb County, will read a proclamation at 9:00 a.m. declaring the consolidated government’s commitment to support children and families by ending the cycle of abuse and neglect.

“April is a time to recognize that each member of the community has a role in promoting the social and emotional wellbeing of children and families. Ending the cycle of abuse and neglect is an effort that requires the vigilance of all members of our community. Crescent House and Navicent Health are pleased to partner with Macon-Bibb County, as well as the Board of Education, Department of Family and Children’s Services, District Attorney’s Office, local law enforcement and public safety agencies and healthcare organizations to address this issue,” said Kemberlie Sanderson, Director of Crescent House, Navicent Health.

Since beginning services in 1997, Crescent House, Navicent Health – a children’s advocacy center designed to meet the needs of children who have made allegations of abuse – has cared for approximately 11,000 children. Crescent House is not a shelter but a facility supplied with state-of-the-art equipment that enables specially trained professionals to conduct effective, consistent, non-threatening interviews and examinations of children who have made these allegations. It is a “one-stop shop,” utilizing a multidisciplinary team approach to the investigation, treatment and prevention of child abuse.

Exchange Club of Macon and Crescent House partner to sponsor the annual Child Abuse Prevention Symposium.

About Navicent Health

Navicent Health was incorporated on November 17, 1994, as a nonprofit corporation whose primary purpose is to coordinate the Medical Center, Navicent Health and other affiliated entities in their mission of providing a comprehensive continuum of high quality, reasonably priced healthcare services to the region. Navicent Health has 830 beds for medical, surgical, rehabilitation and hospice purposes. The health system includes The Medical Center, Navicent Health, a nationally recognized tertiary teaching hospital; Children’s Hospital, Navicent Health, the region’s only dedicated pediatric hospital; Medical Center of Peach County, Navicent Health, a rural critical access hospital; Rehabilitation Hospital, Navicent Health, the region’s oldest and most experienced rehabilitation provider; Pine Pointe, Navicent Health, which provides palliative and hospice care in homes and in its facility; Carlyle Place, Navicent Health, the area’s first continuing care retirement community; Navicent Health Foundation, the philanthropic arm of Navicent Health; as well as diagnostic and home care services. For more information, please visit www.navicenthealth.org.

publicrelations@navicenthealth.org

Navicent Health Calls Attention to Diabetes on National Recognition Day

August 30, 2017 3:30 pm

August 30, 2017 3:30 pm

Diabetes, a condition affecting an estimated 29 million Americans, is a metabolic disease in which the body is unable to produce enough insulin to regulate glucose levels in the bloodstream. Many cases of diabetes go undiagnosed. If left untreated, diabetes can lead to serious and life-threatening conditions including blindness, heart attack, stroke, kidney disease and amputation.

Diabetes Healthways, Navicent Health encourages central Georgians to learn more about diabetes and ways of combatting this chronic disease.

National Diabetes Alert Day

• Tuesday, March 28

• The American Diabetes Association has dedicated this day to encouraging Americans to take a Type 2 Diabetes risk test.

• Visit www.diabetes.org to determine your risk for Type 2 Diabetes.

“Diabetes is a major health problem in our region, and is very prevalent in Peach and Bibb Counties. Our hope is these events will raise community awareness of diabetes, contributing factors and appropriate management,” said Julie Deese, RN, BSN, CDE, Nurse Manager for Diabetes Healthways, Navicent Health

Those at risk for diabetes are encouraged to speak with their healthcare provider about managing risk. To locate a primary care provider, please visit www.navicenthealth.org and choose “Find a Doctor.” Maintaining a healthy weight, eating well and remaining active can also minimize diabetes risk.

About Navicent Health

Navicent Health was incorporated on November 17, 1994, as a nonprofit corporation whose primary purpose is to coordinate the Medical Center, Navicent Health and other affiliated entities in their mission of providing a comprehensive continuum of high quality, reasonably priced healthcare services to the region. Navicent Health has 830 beds for medical, surgical, rehabilitation and hospice purposes. The health system includes The Medical Center, Navicent Health, a nationally recognized tertiary teaching hospital; Children’s Hospital, Navicent Health, the region’s only dedicated pediatric hospital; Medical Center of Peach County, Navicent Health, a rural critical access hospital; Rehabilitation Hospital, Navicent Health, the region’s oldest and most experienced rehabilitation provider; Pine Pointe, Navicent Health, which provides palliative and hospice care in homes and in its facility; Carlyle Place, Navicent Health, the area’s first continuing care retirement community; Navicent Health Foundation, the philanthropic arm of Navicent Health; as well as diagnostic and home care services. For more information, please visit www.navicenthealth.org.

publicrelations@navicenthealth.org

Light It Up Blue to Celebrate Autism Awareness Month with Navicent Health

August 30, 2017 3:39 pm

August 30, 2017 3:39 pm

In recognition of National Autism Awareness Month this April, and in support of families living with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and related developmental disorders, Autism Center, Navicent Health (ACNH) will host the following community events:

• Sensory Friendly Showing of Dreamwork’s Boss Baby

o Saturday, April 1

o 11:30 a.m.

o AmStar Cinemas (5996 Zebulon Road, Macon)

o Sensory-friendly movies are screened at a softer volume, with lights up. Those in the audience are welcome to sing, dance, express themselves and move about.

o Call ACNH at 478-633-8118 for free tickets, while supplies last (limit two per family).

• April PEP Talk

o Tuesday, April 11

o 6:00 p.m.

o ACNH (1014 Forsyth Street, Macon)

 Parking is available in the Yellow Parking Deck.

o Jennifer Thomas, EdS, CCC-SLP will present “Intro to Augmentative and Alternative Communication.”

o PEP Talks are hosted monthly to provide support and training for families living with ASD and other developmental disorders.

o While PEP Talks are free, registration is encouraged. Please contact Autism Center, Navicent Health at 478-633-8100 or at autism@navicenthealth.org to register.

In addition to these two events, ACNH invites the community to join the global movement to “Light It Up Blue” on Sunday, April 2, World Autism Awareness Day. People are encouraged to use the color blue to raise awareness of ASD and foster greater understanding and acceptance. For more information and creative ways to “Light It Up Blue,” please visit www.autismspeaks.org/liub.

ASD is a developmental disorder that can cause social, communication and behavioral challenges. According to estimates from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), 1 in 68 children in the U.S. have been identified with ASD, a disorder that affects all racial, ethnic and socioeconomic groups. If you suspect that your child may have a developmental disability, or if your child has been diagnosed with a developmental disability, contact ACNH at 1-844-482-2264 to learn about the options and services available for families.

About Navicent Health

Navicent Health was incorporated on November 17, 1994, as a nonprofit corporation whose primary purpose is to coordinate the Medical Center, Navicent Health and other affiliated entities in their mission of providing a comprehensive continuum of high quality, reasonably priced healthcare services to the region. Navicent Health has 830 beds for medical, surgical, rehabilitation and hospice purposes. The health system includes The Medical Center, Navicent Health, a nationally recognized tertiary teaching hospital; Children’s Hospital, Navicent Health, the region’s only dedicated pediatric hospital; Medical Center of Peach County, Navicent Health, a rural critical access hospital; Rehabilitation Hospital, Navicent Health, the region’s oldest and most experienced rehabilitation provider; Pine Pointe, Navicent Health, which provides palliative and hospice care in homes and in its facility; Carlyle Place, Navicent Health, the area’s first continuing care retirement community; Navicent Health Foundation, the philanthropic arm of Navicent Health; as well as diagnostic and home care services. For more information, please visit www.navicenthealth.org.

publicrelations@navicenthealth.org

State Recognizes Hospitals, Including MCNH, For Hurricane Matthew Response

August 30, 2017 3:33 pm

August 30, 2017 3:33 pm

On Tuesday, March 14, Gov. Nathan Deal presented a proclamation and the Georgia Senate adopted a resolution honoring Georgia hospitals, including members of Navicent Health, for their response to Hurricane Matthew in October 2016. The resolution commended Georgia hospitals for demonstrating their commitment to the safety and wellbeing of residents through extensive collaboration, preparation and response to the storm.

The Medical Center, Navicent Health (MCNH) serves as the Regional Coordinating Hospital for Region F (Henry, Spalding, Butts, Pike, Lamar, Monroe, Upson, Bibb, Jones, Crawford, Peach and Houston). During Hurricane Matthew, MCNH also served as acting Regional Coordinating Hospital for Region J (Screven, Effingham, Bulloch, Candler, Evans, Tattnall, Toombs, Long, Bryan, Liberty, Chatham, McIntosh, Glynn and Camden).

When Hurricane Matthew assaulted Georgia’s coast on October 7-8, 2016, Regional Coordinating Hospitals including MCNH collaborated to evacuate patients and residents from coastal counties. MCNH accepted hospitalized patients and others in need of care. Carlyle Place, Navicent Health also provided shelter for evacuees from a sister continuing care retirement community at St. Simon’s Island, Ga.

“Hurricane Matthew provided an opportunity for hospitals throughout the state to demonstrate that continued commitment to healthcare planning, along with collaboration among healthcare providers and community partners, can save lives in the midst of disaster,” said Steve Ramsey, Emergency Management Specialist for Navicent Health.

About Navicent Health

Navicent Health was incorporated on November 17, 1994, as a nonprofit corporation whose primary purpose is to coordinate the Medical Center, Navicent Health and other affiliated entities in their mission of providing a comprehensive continuum of high quality, reasonably priced healthcare services to the region. Navicent Health has 830 beds for medical, surgical, rehabilitation and hospice purposes. The health system includes The Medical Center, Navicent Health, a nationally recognized tertiary teaching hospital; Children’s Hospital, Navicent Health, the region’s only dedicated pediatric hospital; Medical Center of Peach County, Navicent Health, a rural critical access hospital; Rehabilitation Hospital, Navicent Health, the region’s oldest and most experienced rehabilitation provider; Pine Pointe, Navicent Health, which provides palliative and hospice care in homes and in its facility; Carlyle Place, Navicent Health, the area’s first continuing care retirement community; Navicent Health Foundation, the philanthropic arm of Navicent Health; as well as diagnostic and home care services. For more information, please visit www.navicenthealth.org.

publicrelations@navicenthealth.org

Childrens Hospital Presents 2017 Pediatric Spring Conference

August 30, 2017 3:43 pm

August 30, 2017 3:43 pm

Children’s Hospital, Navicent Health (CHNH) is pleased to present its 2017 Pediatric Spring Conference, March 31 – April 1, 2017. The conference will be held at The Medical Center, Navicent Health’s Peyton Anderson Health Education Center (877 Hemlock Street, Macon). During the two-day conference, speakers will discuss the following topics:

• Adolescent gynecology

• Developmental disabilities and the school system

• Health disparities

• Non-concussive sports injuries

• Non-medication management of behavioral issues

• Psychoses in children

• Updates in pediatric care

Conference attendees may also improve their skills in Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS), neonatal resuscitation (NRP) and IV access. Attendees will also be introduced to the bedside use of ultrasound.

Dr. Anthony Pearson-Shaver, Chief of Pediatrics for Navicent Health, says those who routinely care for children – including pediatric office staff, nurses, therapists, teachers, school counselors and school administrators – would benefit from the 2017 Spring Pediatric Conference.

“Often, conference attendees work so closely with children that they notice clinical or psychological needs long before diagnoses are made. These professionals are required to address the needs that develop in children in their care. During this year’s Pediatric Spring Conference, highly-qualified experts will explain the science behind the topics presented, and strategies for managing issues that adults regularly interacting with children may face,” said Dr. Pearson-Shaver.

For registration information, please visit www.navicenthealth.org/pedconf.
About Navicent Health

Navicent Health was incorporated on November 17, 1994, as a nonprofit corporation whose primary purpose is to coordinate the Medical Center, Navicent Health and other affiliated entities in their mission of providing a comprehensive continuum of high quality, reasonably priced healthcare services to the region. Navicent Health has 830 beds for medical, surgical, rehabilitation and hospice purposes. The health system includes The Medical Center, Navicent Health, a nationally recognized tertiary teaching hospital; Children’s Hospital, Navicent Health, the region’s only dedicated pediatric hospital; Medical Center of Peach County, Navicent Health, a rural critical access hospital; Rehabilitation Hospital, Navicent Health, the region’s oldest and most experienced rehabilitation provider; Pine Pointe, Navicent Health, which provides palliative and hospice care in homes and in its facility; Carlyle Place, Navicent Health, the area’s first continuing care retirement community; Navicent Health Foundation, the philanthropic arm of Navicent Health; as well as diagnostic and home care services. For more information, please visit www.navicenthealth.org.

publicrelations@navicenthealth.org

Navicent Health, Mercer University Recognize Autism Awareness Month

August 30, 2017 3:46 pm

August 30, 2017 3:46 pm

In recognition of National Autism Awareness Month, Autism Center, Navicent Health (ACNH) and Mercer University’s Tift College of Education (MU) will partner to offer the community the second annual Spring Symposium For Autism & Developmental Disorders. The symposium will take place on Saturday, April 8, 2017, in order to offer knowledge, training and resources to individuals and families living with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and other developmental disorders.

“The Tift College of Education is proud to partner again this year with Autism Center, Navicent Health to bring together various experts on autism and related disorders. We continue to foster a community of advocacy for children with ASD and their families. The symposium is a great way for participants to gain insights and share information, strategies and accessible resources for families,” said Dr. Kelly Reffitt, Associate Dean, Tift College of Education.

The Spring Symposium will begin at 8:00 a.m. in the Eversole Auditorium at The Medical Center, Navicent Health (877 Hemlock Street, Macon). Parking is available in the Green Parking Deck. Speakers will discuss home, school and community resources across the individual’s lifespan. Those in attendance will also have the opportunity to consult with various community providers throughout the day. Following the seminar, participants will be invited to tour ACNH (1014 Forsyth Street, Macon). Parents, educators, clinicians and students are encouraged to attend this free event.

“Our goal is to promote the earliest possible screening, diagnosis and intervention, with evidence-based treatment, so children with Autism Spectrum Disorder or other developmental disorders may reach their full potential in life. This symposium is a wonderful opportunity to bring the community together to discuss available services. Well informed families become greater advocates, leading to greater success for the individual and family,” said Elizabeth Young, MD, Medical Director of ACNH.

To register for this free symposium, please call 478-301-5397 or visit www.tinyurl.com/muautism.

ASD is a developmental disorder that can cause social, communication and behavioral challenges. According to estimates from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), 1 in 68 children in the U.S. have been identified with ASD, a disorder that affects all racial, ethnic and socioeconomic groups.

If you suspect that your child may have a developmental disability, or if your child has been diagnosed with a developmental disability, contact ACNH at 1-844-482-2264 to learn about the options and services available for families.

About Navicent Health

Navicent Health was incorporated on November 17, 1994, as a nonprofit corporation whose primary purpose is to coordinate the Medical Center, Navicent Health and other affiliated entities in their mission of providing a comprehensive continuum of high quality, reasonably priced healthcare services to the region. Navicent Health has 830 beds for medical, surgical, rehabilitation and hospice purposes. The health system includes The Medical Center, Navicent Health, a nationally recognized tertiary teaching hospital; Children’s Hospital, Navicent Health, the region’s only dedicated pediatric hospital; Medical Center of Peach County, Navicent Health, a rural critical access hospital; Rehabilitation Hospital, Navicent Health, the region’s oldest and most experienced rehabilitation provider; Pine Pointe, Navicent Health, which provides palliative and hospice care in homes and in its facility; Carlyle Place, Navicent Health, the area’s first continuing care retirement community; Navicent Health Foundation, the philanthropic arm of Navicent Health; as well as diagnostic and home care services. For more information, please visit www.navicenthealth.org.

publicrelations@navicenthealth.org

Carlyle Place, Navicent Health Adopts Life Plan Community Designation

August 30, 2017 3:50 pm

August 30, 2017 3:50 pm

Carlyle Place, Navicent Health has announced its intent to adopt the designation of Life Plan Community in support of a national movement of similar communities to move away from being known as a Continuing Care Retirement Community (CCRC).

“The designation Continuing Care Retirement Community has given people in our market, and nationwide, a misleading impression of what communities like Carlyle Place are. They have looked at CCRCs and thought they were focused on elder care, when in reality, residents at communities such as Carlyle Place know we’re all about getting the most out of life,” said Tom Rockenbach, Executive Director of Carlyle Place, Navicent Health.

The term Continuing Care Retirement Community was coined nearly 35 years ago to describe the growing number of communities that provide a continuum of living and care options for older adults, starting with apartments and homes in which residents could live independently, then providing assisted living and skilled nursing residences that residents could move into if and when their health needs changed.

“Today’s Life Plan Communities are nothing like those CCRCs of thirty or more years ago,” said Rockenbach. “While we certainly are proud of our healthcare services, we offer so much more. Carlyle Place offers large residential homes with full-size appliances and all the amenities found in new homes today. More importantly, we offer fitness and wellness programs, fine dining, creative enrichment programs, socializing opportunities, and much more. And of course, our staff handles home maintenance, housekeeping and yard work.”

The designation of Life Plan Community is the result of a multi-year effort coordinated by LeadingAge, a national association of not-for-profit aging services organizations, and Mather LifeWays, a not-for-profit organization which owns and operates two CCRCs. The new designation was reached after extensive nationwide research was conducted, including feedback from more than 4,100 survey respondents and 250 focus group participants.

“The new name really draws attention to our community being about full life, not just care. People who move to communities like Carlyle Place tend to be planners, people who like to know they’ve made the decisions they need to make to ensure they have a solid plan in place for their future. The most common thing we hear from new residents is that they say they should have moved in earlier. I think this new name will help more people understand just how beneficial moving to a community like Carlyle Place is, and help them decide to move earlier, so that they can take maximum advantage of all we have to offer, said Rockenbach.

For more information on the evolution of the name Life Plan Community, please visit LifePlanCommunity.org. For more information on Carlyle Place, Navicent Health, please visit www.CarlylePlace.org.

About Navicent Health

Navicent Health was incorporated on November 17, 1994, as a nonprofit corporation whose primary purpose is to coordinate the Medical Center, Navicent Health and other affiliated entities in their mission of providing a comprehensive continuum of high quality, reasonably priced healthcare services to the region. Navicent Health has 830 beds for medical, surgical, rehabilitation and hospice purposes. The health system includes The Medical Center, Navicent Health, a nationally recognized tertiary teaching hospital; Children’s Hospital, Navicent Health, the region’s only dedicated pediatric hospital; Medical Center of Peach County, Navicent Health, a rural critical access hospital; Rehabilitation Hospital, Navicent Health, the region’s oldest and most experienced rehabilitation provider; Pine Pointe, Navicent Health, which provides palliative and hospice care in homes and in its facility; Carlyle Place, Navicent Health, the area’s first continuing care retirement community; Navicent Health Foundation, the philanthropic arm of Navicent Health; as well as diagnostic and home care services. For more information, please visit www.navicenthealth.org.

publicrelations@navicenthealth.org

Childrens Hospital, Navicent Health Encourages Caregivers to Be Aware of Harmful Chemicals

August 30, 2017 3:54 pm

August 30, 2017 3:54 pm

Children’s Hospital, Navicent Health (CHNH) encourages the community to take note of potentially deadly chemicals that could cause harm to children during National Poison Prevention Week, observed March 19-25, 2017.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), poisoning is the leading cause of injury-related death in the U.S. Annually, nearly half of all poison exposure cases managed by poison control centers nationwide involve children under the age of six. Cosmetics and personal care products, household cleaners, and both prescription and over-the-counter medications are the leading substances involved.

“Children are naturally curious, and they are fast! It only takes a few moments for a child to get into something that could cause harm. There are many common products in our households that adults may overlook, but that could be harmful and even fatal to children if ingested. We would like to use this week to encourage parents and caregivers to lock over-the-counter and prescription medications, as well as other potentially toxic substances, out of reach of children,” said Rogelio de la Cruz, M.D., Medical Director of Pediatric Emergency Center, Navicent Health.

Caregivers are encouraged to prepare for poison emergencies by programming the national Poison Helpline (1-800-222-1222) into their phones and posting it in a visible location. Healthcare professionals at the Poison Helpline are available 24 hours a day to answer questions about medications, household products, chemicals, bites and stings, plants and mushrooms, and many other potentially toxic items.

Pediatric Emergency Center, Navicent Health is also available 24 hours a day if poison exposure does occur. Navicent Health’s Pediatric Emergency Center, located at 770 Pine Street in Macon, is designed solely for the care of children and provides immediate access to Children’s Hospital, Navicent Health, the region’s only provider of comprehensive pediatric care.

Since 1962, the President of the United States has proclaimed the third week of March as National Poison Prevention Week. The American Association of Poison Control Centers and poison prevention partners nationwide will raise public awareness of the dangers of poisonings and how to prevent them during this week. While more than 90 percent of poison exposures occur in the home, exposures may also occur in the workplace, schools and other locations and may affect teenagers and adults as well as children.

About Navicent Health

Navicent Health was incorporated on November 17, 1994, as a nonprofit corporation whose primary purpose is to coordinate the Medical Center, Navicent Health and other affiliated entities in their mission of providing a comprehensive continuum of high quality, reasonably priced healthcare services to the region. Navicent Health has 830 beds for medical, surgical, rehabilitation and hospice purposes. The health system includes The Medical Center, Navicent Health, a nationally recognized tertiary teaching hospital; Children’s Hospital, Navicent Health, the region’s only dedicated pediatric hospital; Medical Center of Peach County, Navicent Health, a rural critical access hospital; Rehabilitation Hospital, Navicent Health, the region’s oldest and most experienced rehabilitation provider; Pine Pointe, Navicent Health, which provides palliative and hospice care in homes and in its facility; Carlyle Place, Navicent Health, the area’s first continuing care retirement community; Navicent Health Foundation, the philanthropic arm of Navicent Health; as well as diagnostic and home care services. For more information, please visit www.navicenthealth.org.

publicrelations@navicenthealth.org

Navicent Health Awards Six Physicians for Excellence, Commitment to Medical Profession

August 30, 2017 3:57 pm

August 30, 2017 3:57 pm

At a recognition dinner on Thursday, March 9, Navicent Health Foundation recognized six physicians for their stellar care and commitment to the region’s patients, as well as the profession of medicine.

“Through the help and guidance of Navicent Health Foundation’s Olin H. Weaver Society, we were pleased to present this year’s Physician Awards. We recognize these physicians for their many contributions, delivered with excellence, for the benefit of the patients and communities we serve,” said Cal Hays, Chair of the Navicent Health Foundation Board of Directors.

The following physicians have been honored for their contributions to medicine:

• Issam J. Shaker, M.D., Lifetime Achievement Award – Dr. Shaker is awarded for demonstrating career-long service to patients throughout central and south Georgia, as well as the profession of medicine. Employed by The Medical Center, Navicent Health for over 30 years, Dr. Shaker was instrumental in establishing the hospital’s cardiothoracic and open heart surgery program, as well as the hospital’s cardiovascular intensive care unit.

• Dennis W. Ashley, M.D., Distinguished Service Award – Dr. Ashley is honored for his commitment to service, community involvement, altruism, leadership and dedication to patient care. He has served as Director of Trauma and Critical Care at The Medical Center, Navicent Health since 1994, leading the hospital to both state designation and national verification as a Level 1 trauma center. He serves as Chair of the Georgia Trauma Commission.

• Macram M. Ayoub, M.D., Educator of The Year – Dr. Ayoub is recognized for exemplifying the medical profession’s highest standards of excellence in teaching, and has made significant commendable and long-standing contributions to the academic advancement of students, residents and the profession.

• Freddy N. Gaton, M.D., Olin H. Weaver Philanthropy Award – Dr. Gaton is recognized as someone whose lifetime achievements are not only reflected in his personal accomplishments, but also in his philanthropic support of Navicent Health Foundation.

• Harold P. Katner, M.D., Spirit of Medicine Award – Dr. Katner is honored for demonstrating altruism, compassion, integrity, leadership and personal sacrifice while providing quality healthcare to distressed and marginalized populations within the community.

• Joe Sam Robinson, M.D., Excellence in Science Award – Dr. Robinson is awarded for his exceptional contributions to medical science, especially health, through research, publications and leadership in the field.

“Navicent Health congratulates these outstanding physicians, as well as our entire medical staff. Their dedication to the medical profession, to our patients, and to communities throughout the region is indeed commendable and worthy of recognition,” said Dr. Ninfa M. Saunders, President and CEO of Navicent Health.

“In any community, physicians provide the foundation of care for the sick and the injured, as well as the continued wellbeing of the healthy. At Navicent Health, we are pleased to celebrate the many accomplishments and contributions of our medical staff, particularly those of our 2017 Physician Award winners,” said Dr. Robert DiRenzo, Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer of Enterprise Clinical Systems for Navicent Health.

About Navicent Health

Navicent Health was incorporated on November 17, 1994, as a nonprofit corporation whose primary purpose is to coordinate the Medical Center, Navicent Health and other affiliated entities in their mission of providing a comprehensive continuum of high quality, reasonably priced healthcare services to the region. Navicent Health has 830 beds for medical, surgical, rehabilitation and hospice purposes. The health system includes The Medical Center, Navicent Health, a nationally recognized tertiary teaching hospital; Children’s Hospital, Navicent Health, the region’s only dedicated pediatric hospital; Medical Center of Peach County, Navicent Health, a rural critical access hospital; Rehabilitation Hospital, Navicent Health, the region’s oldest and most experienced rehabilitation provider; Pine Pointe, Navicent Health, which provides palliative and hospice care in homes and in its facility; Carlyle Place, Navicent Health, the area’s first continuing care retirement community; Navicent Health Foundation, the philanthropic arm of Navicent Health; as well as diagnostic and home care services. For more information, please visit www.navicenthealth.org.

publicrelations@navicenthealth.org

Navicent Health Black Belt Fellow Improves EMS Response Times through Lean Six Sigma

August 30, 2017 4:12 pm

August 30, 2017 4:12 pm

ISE Magazine has included in its February issue a study entitled “Optimizing emergency services with Lean Six Sigma” by Casey Bedgood, Black Belt Leadership Fellow with Navicent Health’s Center for Disruption & Innovation (CfDI). The study examines the benefits of applying the principles of Lean Six Sigma in an emergency medical setting in order to improve efficiency while reducing redundancy and error.

“Applying Lean Six Sigma to Navicent Health’s Emergency Services saved approximately 37,000 minutes of emergency response times over a multicounty region in the first year after implementation. Time equals lives. Therefore, thousands of patients received higher quality care and service when they needed it most thanks to the Lean Six Sigma process improvement,” said Bedgood.

Navicent Health implemented Lean/Six Sigma, a highly disciplined, data-driven approach and methodology for eliminating waste, improving outcomes, and delivering extraordinary service, in 2014. Bedgood, a Six Sigma black belt and leadership fellow with Navicent Health’s Center for Disruption and Innovation, was the first Black Belt trained under the Navicent Health program. The director of Navicent Health’s Emergency Medical Services (EMS) from 2013 to 2015, Bedgood has served Navicent Health EMS in various capacities for almost 20 years, including as a paramedic, field training officer and operations manager.

“Lean Six Sigma is applicable to global industries ranging from auto manufacturing and defense to healthcare. The unique aspect of Lean Six Sigma in healthcare is that process improvement directly improves people’s health and wellbeing. As exhibited in this study, Lean Six Sigma has the potential to save lives. The Black Belt fellows at Navicent Health are continually seeking new avenues for implementation as we improve our processes,” said Simeon Sessley, Executive Director of CfDI.

“Efforts such as these are core to the work we are doing at Navicent Health’s Center for Disruption and Innovation, and will be critical in helping our health system – as well as many others nationwide – prepare for future relevance and value-based care,” said Christopher Cornue, Chief Strategy and Innovation Officer for Navicent Health.

To view Bedgood’s article, please click here. ISE Magazine is a monthly publication of the Institute of Industrial and System Engineers and serves a diverse readership of professionals and students with a common interest of industrial engineering. As a leading voice in the industry, ISE Magazine strives to provide useful, timely and thought-provoking content to assist readers as they enhance their professional capabilities, improve organizational performance and develop the profession.

About Navicent Health

Navicent Health was incorporated on November 17, 1994, as a nonprofit corporation whose primary purpose is to coordinate the Medical Center, Navicent Health and other affiliated entities in their mission of providing a comprehensive continuum of high quality, reasonably priced healthcare services to the region. Navicent Health has 830 beds for medical, surgical, rehabilitation and hospice purposes. The health system includes The Medical Center, Navicent Health, a nationally recognized tertiary teaching hospital; Children’s Hospital, Navicent Health, the region’s only dedicated pediatric hospital; Medical Center of Peach County, Navicent Health, a rural critical access hospital; Rehabilitation Hospital, Navicent Health, the region’s oldest and most experienced rehabilitation provider; Pine Pointe, Navicent Health, which provides palliative and hospice care in homes and in its facility; Carlyle Place, Navicent Health, the area’s first continuing care retirement community; Navicent Health Foundation, the philanthropic arm of Navicent Health; as well as diagnostic and home care services. For more information, please visit www.navicenthealth.org.

publicrelations@navicenthealth.org

Navicent Health Continues Commitment to Navigate Patients towards Wellness with New OrCarestra Program

August 30, 2017 4:18 pm

August 30, 2017 4:18 pm

In support of its commitment to navigate patients toward greater health and wellness, Navicent Health has launched OrCarestra, a new program to assist patients in the coordination of care.

Conductors with Navicent Health’s Access Navigation Center will orchestrate healthcare services for each individual patient in order to best meet their needs. OrCarestra conductors will assist healthcare consumers in the following ways:

• By providing quick, free information about local health services and options.

• By providing worry-free assistance locating a local physician or service to fit the patient’s individualized needs.

• By scheduling necessary appointments, as well as follow up tests and services as needed.

• By developing consumer-facing support tools, including patient itineraries for scheduled care.

In addition, OrCarestra’s care navigators, assigned to each of Navicent Health’s inpatient units, will work closely with physicians and other clinical staff to map out a clinical pathway for each patient. With the help of the centralized navigation team, patients will receive care in the appropriate clinical setting. Employees at Navicent Health’s Access Navigation Center will contact patients after discharge and assist with scheduling follow up appointments, diagnostic tests, therapies, and other health services that may be needed to complete care. These services will be scheduled close to the patient’s home whenever possible.

This new program not only provides easier access to care for healthcare consumers, but will also benefit physicians and hospitals across the state who refer patients to Navicent Health for care. Referring physicians and hospitals need only call one phone number to reach an OrCarestra conductor, who will begin the process of managing the patient’s care. Navicent Health will monitor major areas of cost across the continuum, including total costs, Medicare Spend per Beneficiary, and specific site of care costs for commercial payors.

“The mandate to manage and reduce cost is not new to healthcare, yet success in this area tends to elude many organizations, particularly in regards to ensuring each individual patient continues to receive satisfactory care. The key is to provide the right care at the right place, at the right time and at the right cost. Navigation and care coordination play a concurrent and critical role in achieving these goals. OrCarestra not only allows Navicent Health to streamline efficient, quality care for each individual patient, but also allows us to monitor the cost of care across the continuum for each patient, provider and payor,” said Dr. Ninfa M. Saunders, President and CEO of Navicent Health.

Consumers interested in using OrCarestra’s services may contact Navicent Health at 1-844-350-4YOU.

About Navicent Health

Navicent Health was incorporated on November 17, 1994, as a nonprofit corporation whose primary purpose is to coordinate the Medical Center, Navicent Health and other affiliated entities in their mission of providing a comprehensive continuum of high quality, reasonably priced healthcare services to the region. Navicent Health has 830 beds for medical, surgical, rehabilitation and hospice purposes. The health system includes The Medical Center, Navicent Health, a nationally recognized tertiary teaching hospital; Children’s Hospital, Navicent Health, the region’s only dedicated pediatric hospital; Medical Center of Peach County, Navicent Health, a rural critical access hospital; Rehabilitation Hospital, Navicent Health, the region’s oldest and most experienced rehabilitation provider; Pine Pointe, Navicent Health, which provides palliative and hospice care in homes and in its facility; Carlyle Place, Navicent Health, the area’s first continuing care retirement community; Navicent Health Foundation, the philanthropic arm of Navicent Health; as well as diagnostic and home care services. For more information, please visit www.navicenthealth.org.

publicrelations@navicenthealth.org

Fifth Annual Peach Road Race to Benefit Local Critical Access Hospital

August 30, 2017 4:14 pm

August 30, 2017 4:14 pm

Medical Center of Peach County, Navicent Health (MCPC) invites central Georgians to participate in the fifth annual Peach Road Race on Saturday, March 11.

The race will begin at 8:00 a.m. at MCPC, 1960 Highway 247 Connector in Byron, and participants may choose to compete in a 10.5k or 5k course. Registration is $20 until Thursday, March 9 and $25 on race day. All participants will receive a micromesh shirt, and awards will be given to the top three finishers overall, as well as the top three finishers in various age groups. To register for this event, please visit www.racerpal.com.

Immediately following the race, MCPC will host a health fair with free health screenings, health and safety demonstrations, and exhibits from local vendors. The health fair will last until 12:00 p.m. and include free health screenings such as blood pressure, body fat analysis, cholesterol, glucose and vision. For a nominal fee, participants may also obtain a lipid profile, PSA screening and/or Angioscreen.

“We want this Saturday to be a day of health and wellness for our entire community. We invite everyone to support Peach County’s hospital by participating in this beautiful run, then stay afterwards to learn more about navigating their personal path to health and wellness,” said Darren Pearce, Chief Administrative Officer of MCPC.

About Navicent Health

Navicent Health was incorporated on November 17, 1994, as a nonprofit corporation whose primary purpose is to coordinate the Medical Center, Navicent Health and other affiliated entities in their mission of providing a comprehensive continuum of high quality, reasonably priced healthcare services to the region. Navicent Health has 830 beds for medical, surgical, rehabilitation and hospice purposes. The health system includes The Medical Center, Navicent Health, a nationally recognized tertiary teaching hospital; Children’s Hospital, Navicent Health, the region’s only dedicated pediatric hospital; Medical Center of Peach County, Navicent Health, a rural critical access hospital; Rehabilitation Hospital, Navicent Health, the region’s oldest and most experienced rehabilitation provider; Pine Pointe, Navicent Health, which provides palliative and hospice care in homes and in its facility; Carlyle Place, Navicent Health, the area’s first continuing care retirement community; Navicent Health Foundation, the philanthropic arm of Navicent Health; as well as diagnostic and home care services. For more information, please visit www.navicenthealth.org.

publicrelations@navicenthealth.org

Celebrate National Pancake Day with a Free Stack at IHOP on March 7

August 30, 2017 4:21 pm

August 30, 2017 4:21 pm

In celebration of Children’s Miracle Network Hospital’s 34th Anniversary and IHOP’s National Pancake Day, IHOP will host the largest pancake party in the country on Tuesday, March 7 from 7:00 a.m. until 7:00 p.m.

The daylong celebration will allow guests to enjoy a free* short stack of buttermilk pancakes. In return, guests will be encouraged to make a voluntary contribution to Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals, which improve the lives of children at 170 network hospitals across the U.S.

One hundred percent of funds raised at central Georgia IHOP locations will benefit Children’s Hospital, Navicent Health – a Children’s Miracle Network Hospital. Patrons who wish to support Children’s Hospital, Navicent Health may choose to dine at the following locations:

• Macon - 165 Tom Hill Sr. Boulevard

• Milledgeville – 2598 N. Columbia Street

• Warner Robins – 2710 Watson Boulevard

IHOP’s goal is to raise $3.5 million nationally.

*There is a limit of one free short stack per guest, and the offer is valid at participating restaurants for dine-in only while supplies last, and is not valid with any other offer, special, coupon or discount. For more information on this worthwhile campaign or to find an IHOP near you, please visit www.ihoppancakeday.com.

About Navicent Health

Navicent Health was incorporated on November 17, 1994, as a nonprofit corporation whose primary purpose is to coordinate the Medical Center, Navicent Health and other affiliated entities in their mission of providing a comprehensive continuum of high quality, reasonably priced healthcare services to the region. Navicent Health has 830 beds for medical, surgical, rehabilitation and hospice purposes. The health system includes The Medical Center, Navicent Health, a nationally recognized tertiary teaching hospital; Children’s Hospital, Navicent Health, the region’s only dedicated pediatric hospital; Medical Center of Peach County, Navicent Health, a rural critical access hospital; Rehabilitation Hospital, Navicent Health, the region’s oldest and most experienced rehabilitation provider; Pine Pointe, Navicent Health, which provides palliative and hospice care in homes and in its facility; Carlyle Place, Navicent Health, the area’s first continuing care retirement community; Navicent Health Foundation, the philanthropic arm of Navicent Health; as well as diagnostic and home care services. For more information, please visit www.navicenthealth.org.

publicrelations@navicenthealth.org

Navicent Health Strategy Officer Featured as Expert on National Podcast

August 31, 2017 10:11 am

August 31, 2017 10:11 am

Navicent Health Chief Strategy & Innovation Officer Christopher Cornue was recently a featured expert for Relentless Health Value’s national podcast devoted to achieving quality within the healthcare industry. Cornue’s topic of discussion for the 30-minute podcast released on Thursday, February 22 was, “Linking Healthcare Innovation and Organizational Strategy.”

“The combination of strategy and innovation is one of those core synergies that will make the difference for healthcare in the future. Strategies of the past will not be what takes us into the future, especially with all of the changes happening in healthcare,” said Cornue. Cornue spoke with Relentless Health Value President and CEO Stacey Richter on innovative strategies, implementation and execution, disruption and continued relevance, and cultures of change, among other points.

Relentless Health Value has offered consumers a weekly interview podcast since 2014. Guests include leading figures in the healthcare industry, who discuss methods to achieve the Triple Aim of improving population health and patient experience while managing costs effectively. Committed to the three facets of the Triple Aim, Navicent Health is continually seeking innovative methods to meet the demands of, and lead solution develop for, an industry in transition.

“Navicent Health is really well poised to demonstrate the innovative change that can happen over a larger regional area. You don’t hear a lot nationally about the change that is happening in the rural market. Even though Navicent Health is based in Macon, Ga., many of our partners and the work we end up doing is with rural healthcare providers,” said Cornue.

“Our industry’s future success lies in the creation of healthy communities in urban, suburban and rural markets, such as those served by Navicent Health. This is achieved by aligning a strategic focus with innovative approaches. At Navicent Health, we are continually striving to disrupt and innovate in order to remain relevant within the market. We are pleased that Chris has been able to share his knowledge and expertise on a national platform,” said Dr. Ninfa M. Saunders, President and CEO of Navicent Health.

To listen to the full podcast featuring Cornue, please visit http://relentlesshealthvalue.com/audios/125/. Follow @relentleshealth and @cornue on Twitter for more information on this and related topics.

About Navicent Health

Navicent Health was incorporated on November 17, 1994, as a nonprofit corporation whose primary purpose is to coordinate the Medical Center, Navicent Health and other affiliated entities in their mission of providing a comprehensive continuum of high quality, reasonably priced healthcare services to the region. Navicent Health has 830 beds for medical, surgical, rehabilitation and hospice purposes. The health system includes The Medical Center, Navicent Health, a nationally recognized tertiary teaching hospital; Children’s Hospital, Navicent Health, the region’s only dedicated pediatric hospital; Medical Center of Peach County, Navicent Health, a rural critical access hospital; Rehabilitation Hospital, Navicent Health, the region’s oldest and most experienced rehabilitation provider; Pine Pointe, Navicent Health, which provides palliative and hospice care in homes and in its facility; Carlyle Place, Navicent Health, the area’s first continuing care retirement community; Navicent Health Foundation, the philanthropic arm of Navicent Health; as well as diagnostic and home care services. For more information, please visit www.navicenthealth.org.

publicrelations@navicenthealth.org

Forsythia Health Fair to be held Saturday, February 25

August 31, 2017 10:15 am

August 31, 2017 10:15 am

Navicent Health invites the community to participate in a healthy day of learning and fun at the Forsythia Health Fair, scheduled for Saturday, February 25, 7:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. at the Monroe Regional Medical Complex (120 North Lee Street, Forsyth).

The entire family is invited to participate in health screenings, demonstrations and discussions related to personal health and wellness. The following are just a few opportunities that will be offered at the Forsythia Health Fair:

• Free health screenings, including:

o Breast exams

o Blood pressure

o Fall risk assessment

o Full blood lipid screenings

o Glucose

• Angioscreen, a painless non-invasive method to determine a person’s risk for heart disease and stroke, will be offered for $50*. Preregistration is required. Please call 1-800-627-2393 for an appointment.

• Prostate Specific Antigen Tests, a screening to detect prostate cancer, provided by Monroe County Hospital for $10.

• Health education for teenagers.

• Zumba Latin-infused dance aerobic demonstration.

For more information, please visit www.navicenthealth.org or call (478) 633-6336.

*Navicent Health offers Angioscreen at no charge to U.S. military veterans.

About Navicent Health

Navicent Health was incorporated on November 17, 1994, as a nonprofit corporation whose primary purpose is to coordinate the Medical Center, Navicent Health and other affiliated entities in their mission of providing a comprehensive continuum of high quality, reasonably priced healthcare services to the region. Navicent Health has 830 beds for medical, surgical, rehabilitation and hospice purposes. The health system includes The Medical Center, Navicent Health, a nationally recognized tertiary teaching hospital; Children’s Hospital, Navicent Health, the region’s only dedicated pediatric hospital; Medical Center of Peach County, Navicent Health, a rural critical access hospital; Rehabilitation Hospital, Navicent Health, the region’s oldest and most experienced rehabilitation provider; Pine Pointe, Navicent Health, which provides palliative and hospice care in homes and in its facility; Carlyle Place, Navicent Health, the area’s first continuing care retirement community; Navicent Health Foundation, the philanthropic arm of Navicent Health; as well as diagnostic and home care services. For more information, please visit www.navicenthealth.org.

publicrelations@navicenthealth.org

Georgia Governor Nathan Deal Visits States Only Nationally-Verified Level I Trauma Center

August 31, 2017 10:24 am

August 31, 2017 10:24 am

The Honorable Nathan Deal, Governor of the State of Georgia, visited The Medical Center, Navicent Health (MCNH) on Tuesday to tour the hospital’s nationally-verified Level I Trauma Center. MCNH boasts the only Level I Trauma Center in the state nationally verified by the American College of Surgeons. “You are in a unique category, and the people of this part of Georgia should be extremely proud of what you’ve done to achieve this certification,” Gov. Deal said during Tuesday’s news conference at MCNH. “Your work will go a long way toward improving the quality of life for our entire state.”

In November 2016, MCNH achieved verification as an American College of Surgeons (ACS) verified Level I trauma center. MCNH has been designated a Level I Trauma Center by the State of Georgia since 1998, and is now the only Level I trauma center in the state and only one of 17 hospitals in the Southeast to achieve this additional, national recognition. Gov. Deal, a strong supporter of Georgia’s Trauma Care Network, will tour MCNH’s Trauma Center, the gold-standard of trauma care within the state.

“The trauma team at The Medical Center, Navicent Health voluntarily sought verification from the American College of Surgeons, for the benefit of our patients and their loved ones. We have gone beyond the standard requirements for Level I trauma centers to exceed the highest standards set forth by this national certification body. At The Medical Center, Navicent Health, our trauma team seeks to be the best and to obtain the highest level of achievement,” said Dennis W. Ashley, MD, Director of Trauma and Critical Care for MCNH.

“Navicent Health is pleased to welcome Gov. Deal to tour our Trauma Center. As the only Level I Trauma Center serving this region, patients rely on The Medical Center, Navicent Health for the most comprehensive and all-inclusive care for their injuries. As a nationally-recognized ACS Level I trauma center, our patients can trust that we are exceeding the standards in order to provide the highest levels of care. Our team truly is setting the standard for trauma care in this state,” said Ninfa M. Saunders, DHA, President and CEO of Navicent Health.

Of 185 hospitals in Georgia, only 30 are trauma centers. The state of Georgia classifies trauma centers on a scale of Levels I-IV, dependent on the level of care provided. Only six hospitals in the state – including MCNH – are classified at the most comprehensive level, Level I.

MCNH’s Level I trauma team, comprised of numerous surgeons in various specialties as well as highly-trained and specialized clinicians, is available 24 hours per day and able to provide the most sophisticated level of care for trauma patients. In addition, as a Level I trauma center, MCNH leads the field in research and provides training for future surgeons through residency and fellowship programs.

The trauma center at MCNH serves an average of 3,000 patients annually, with approximately one-third of those patients transferred from other healthcare facilities. In 2016, MCNH’s trauma center cared for patients from 91 or Georgia’s 159 counties.

“Across the nation, Level I trauma centers are typically in large, metropolitan areas. The availability of care provided at The Medical Center, Navicent Health is very rare in smaller communities like Macon. Patients in central and south Georgia are incredibly fortunate to have access to the Level I trauma services, now nationally verified by the American College of Surgeons, so close at hand when accidents and injuries occur,” said Chris Hendry, MD, Chief Medical Officer for MCNH.

About Navicent Health

Navicent Health was incorporated on November 17, 1994, as a nonprofit corporation whose primary purpose is to coordinate the Medical Center, Navicent Health and other affiliated entities in their mission of providing a comprehensive continuum of high quality, reasonably priced healthcare services to the region. Navicent Health has 830 beds for medical, surgical, rehabilitation and hospice purposes. The health system includes The Medical Center, Navicent Health, a nationally recognized tertiary teaching hospital; Children’s Hospital, Navicent Health, the region’s only dedicated pediatric hospital; Medical Center of Peach County, Navicent Health, a rural critical access hospital; Rehabilitation Hospital, Navicent Health, the region’s oldest and most experienced rehabilitation provider; Pine Pointe, Navicent Health, which provides palliative and hospice care in homes and in its facility; Carlyle Place, Navicent Health, the area’s first continuing care retirement community; Navicent Health Foundation, the philanthropic arm of Navicent Health; as well as diagnostic and home care services. For more information, please visit www.navicenthealth.org.

publicrelations@navicenthealth.org

Two Navicent Health Hospitals Win Statewide Patient Safety Awards for Improvements in Quality Care, Infection Reduction

August 31, 2017 10:28 am

August 31, 2017 10:28 am

The Partnership for Health and Accountability (PHA) presented two of its prestigious Quality and Patient Safety Awards to The Medical Center, Navicent Health in Macon, Ga. and one Quality and Patient Safety Award to The Medical Center of Peach County, Navicent Health in Byron, Ga. for their efforts to improve patient safety and reduce infections.

The Medical Center of Peach County, Navicent Health was awarded for its project that reduced the incidence of catheter-associated urinary tract infections (CAUTI). The project, titled, “Minimizing CAUTI Risk through Application of Evidence-Based Practices,” won second place in the “Critical Access Hospitals” category.

The Medical Center, Navicent Health in Macon was recognized for two similar projects, tying itself for first place in the “Greater than 300 Bed” category. The first project, “Improving Patient Outcomes via Interdisciplinary Bedside Rounds,” improved patient safety through more effective rounding. The second project, “Cutting CAUTI,” reduced the incidence of catheter-associated urinary tract infections.

“Quality and patient safety are top priorities at Navicent Health hospitals. We are continuously examining and modifying our processes in order to ensure faster recovery times and overall safer patient care for each individual who seeks treatment in a Navicent Health facility. We are thrilled to have three such projects recognized and awarded by the Partnership for Health and Accountability,” said Christopher Hendry, M.D., Chief Medical Officer for Navicent Health.

“Hospitals are diligently working each day to ensure the safety of their patients, whether through infection prevention or overall patient care improvement,” said Georgia Hospital Association Chief Medical Officer Doug Patten, M.D. “We applaud Navicent Health, not only for its success in this area, but also for sharing best practices with other hospitals across the state so each has the opportunity to make critical progress in patient safety and ensure the best and safest care possible for patients.”

PHA’s annual awards recognize Georgia healthcare organizations for achievement in reducing the risk of medical errors and improving patient safety and medical outcomes.

About PHA

The Partnership for Health and Accountability (PHA), an affiliate of GHA, was established in January 2000 to improve patient care and patient safety in hospitals and other health care facilities and create healthy communities.

About GHA

Founded in 1929, GHA serves more than 170 hospitals in Georgia and promotes the health and welfare of the public through the development of better hospital care for all Georgia’s citizens. The mission of GHA is to advance the health of individuals and communities by serving as the leading advocate for all Georgia hospitals and health care systems. GHA represents its members before the General Assembly and Congress, as well as state and federal regulatory agencies, and is an allied member of the American Hospital Association. For more information, please call 770-249-4500 or visit gha.org.

About Navicent Health

Navicent Health was incorporated on November 17, 1994, as a nonprofit corporation whose primary purpose is to coordinate the Medical Center, Navicent Health and other affiliated entities in their mission of providing a comprehensive continuum of high quality, reasonably priced healthcare services to the region. Navicent Health has 830 beds for medical, surgical, rehabilitation and hospice purposes. The health system includes The Medical Center, Navicent Health, a nationally recognized tertiary teaching hospital; Children’s Hospital, Navicent Health, the region’s only dedicated pediatric hospital; Medical Center of Peach County, Navicent Health, a rural critical access hospital; Rehabilitation Hospital, Navicent Health, the region’s oldest and most experienced rehabilitation provider; Pine Pointe, Navicent Health, which provides palliative and hospice care in homes and in its facility; Carlyle Place, Navicent Health, the area’s first continuing care retirement community; Navicent Health Foundation, the philanthropic arm of Navicent Health; as well as diagnostic and home care services. For more information, please visit www.navicenthealth.org.

publicrelations@navicenthealth.org

PEP Talks for Parents Focusing On Dental Hygiene at Autism Center, Navicent Health

August 31, 2017 10:34 am

August 31, 2017 10:34 am

Autism Center, Navicent Health is pleased to host monthly support meetings for families living with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and other developmental disorders. Free monthly support and training is offered through Parent Empowerment Program (PEP) Talks.

The next PEP Talk will take place on Tuesday, February 21 at 6:00 p.m. at Autism Center, Navicent Health (1014 Forsyth Street, Macon). Parking is available in the Yellow Parking Deck.

In celebration of Dental Hygiene Health Month, the topic for the February meeting will be dental hygiene and health. Dr. Margaret Moore of Pediatric Dentistry of Central Georgia will provide hands-on dental healthcare tips for children with special needs.

PEP Talks are usually hosted on the second Tuesday of each consecutive month and feature a variety of topics useful for families affected by ASD and other developmental disorders. PEP Talks are free for family members, educators, healthcare professionals and the public, and offer evidence-based information along with tools and tips for families to use at home, school and within the community.

While PEP Talks are free, registration is encouraged. Please contact Autism Center, Navicent Health at 478-633-8100 or at autism@navicenthealth.org to register.

About Navicent Health

Navicent Health was incorporated on November 17, 1994, as a nonprofit corporation whose primary purpose is to coordinate the Medical Center, Navicent Health and other affiliated entities in their mission of providing a comprehensive continuum of high quality, reasonably priced healthcare services to the region. Navicent Health has 830 beds for medical, surgical, rehabilitation and hospice purposes. The health system includes The Medical Center, Navicent Health, a nationally recognized tertiary teaching hospital; Children’s Hospital, Navicent Health, the region’s only dedicated pediatric hospital; Medical Center of Peach County, Navicent Health, a rural critical access hospital; Rehabilitation Hospital, Navicent Health, the region’s oldest and most experienced rehabilitation provider; Pine Pointe, Navicent Health, which provides palliative and hospice care in homes and in its facility; Carlyle Place, Navicent Health, the area’s first continuing care retirement community; Navicent Health Foundation, the philanthropic arm of Navicent Health; as well as diagnostic and home care services. For more information, please visit www.navicenthealth.org.

publicrelations@navicenthealth.org

The Medical Center, Navicent Health Leads State Efforts to Stop the Bleed

August 31, 2017 10:37 am

August 31, 2017 10:37 am

In recognition of Georgia’s Trauma Awareness Day, Georgia’s General Assembly invited trauma physicians and clinicians to the state capitol on Tuesday, February 7. Representatives of The Medical Center, Navicent Health (MCNH) – the state’s only nationally-verified Level 1 trauma center – were pleased to join trauma professionals from around the state to launch Georgia’s "Stop the Bleed" Campaign.

Stop the Bleed is a national initiative of the American College of Surgeons and Hartford Consensus. The program provides bystanders of emergency situations with the expertise to stop life-threatening bleeding until first responders arrive. Led by Dennis W. Ashley, MD, Director of Trauma Services and Critical Care for MCNH, trauma professionals from across the state presented their plan to distribute training and equipment to law enforcement, school systems and lay citizens.

“Our goal is to provide life-saving education and equip our school classrooms, law enforcement vehicles and public venues including airports, stadiums and churches with bleeding control kits. These kits will accompany education and training to fully equip individuals with the necessary skills to save a life,” said Dr. Ashley.

On Tuesday, the Georgia Trauma Commission requested funding to support the Stop the Bleed Campaign in Georgia’s public school system by providing each public school in the state with a bleeding control kit. Trauma professionals from Navicent Health and other Georgia providers conducted Stop the Bleed training sessions throughout the day, allowing legislators a firsthand look at the training program.

Uncontrolled bleeding injuries can result from natural and manmade disasters and accidents. Severe bleeding may claim a life within minutes, potentially before trained responders arrive on scene. Providing bystanders with knowledge of the steps to take to stop uncontrolled bleeding, and providing the public access to bleeding control kits, can save lives.

“Research has shown that bystanders with little or no medical training can heroically save a life if equipped with the right knowledge. This is seen in incidents where bystanders use CPR training or automatic defibrillators until help arrives. We firmly believe this program has the ability to help people save lives in the event of an emergency situation. We were privileged to present this program to our state legislators and look forward to their continued support of the Georgia Trauma Commission and its endeavors,” said Dr. Ashley.

About Navicent Health

Navicent Health was incorporated on November 17, 1994, as a nonprofit corporation whose primary purpose is to coordinate the Medical Center, Navicent Health and other affiliated entities in their mission of providing a comprehensive continuum of high quality, reasonably priced healthcare services to the region. Navicent Health has 830 beds for medical, surgical, rehabilitation and hospice purposes. The health system includes The Medical Center, Navicent Health, a nationally recognized tertiary teaching hospital; Children’s Hospital, Navicent Health, the region’s only dedicated pediatric hospital; Medical Center of Peach County, Navicent Health, a rural critical access hospital; Rehabilitation Hospital, Navicent Health, the region’s oldest and most experienced rehabilitation provider; Pine Pointe, Navicent Health, which provides palliative and hospice care in homes and in its facility; Carlyle Place, Navicent Health, the area’s first continuing care retirement community; Navicent Health Foundation, the philanthropic arm of Navicent Health; as well as diagnostic and home care services. For more information, please visit www.navicenthealth.org.

publicrelations@navicenthealth.org

Join Navicent Health for Heart Fest during February, American Heart Month

September 1, 2017 11:13 am

September 1, 2017 11:13 am

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), heart disease is the leading cause of death in the United States. The CDC estimates 610,000 people in the U.S. die of heart disease each year – approximately one in every four deaths. Heart disease affects both men and women, with no regard for race or ethnicity. Deaths related to heart disease are particularly high in Georgia and the Southeast. The CDC estimates that heart disease costs the U.S. almost $207 billion each year through healthcare services, medications and lost productivity.

While statistics on the deadliness of this disease are staggering, there are steps individuals may take to improve the health of their heart. Navicent Health is dedicated to battling heart disease by giving central Georgians the tools they need to live heart healthy lives. Celebrate Heart Fest 2017 with Navicent Health during February, American Heart Month. Make your plans to attend the following events:

• Friday, February 3

o “Eat Your Heart Out” Heart Healthy Presentation and Cooking Demonstration

 12:00 p.m.

 Wellness Center, Navicent Health, 3797 Northside Dr. in Macon.

 Free recipes, taste testing and door prizes

 Please RSVP to rsvp@navicenthealth.org or 478-633-4733.

• Saturday, February 4

o Save Your Heart Health Fair

 7:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.

 Central Georgia Technical College Building H, 3300 Macon Tech Drive, Macon

 Free screenings include full blood lipid screening, blood pressure, body mass index, glucose, vision and more.

 Attendees may register for these free screenings at www.navicenthealth.org or by calling 478-633-6336.

 Angioscreen, a painless, non-invasive screening to determine the risk of heart disease and stroke, will be offered for $50. Please call 1-800-627-2393 to reserve your place for this special screening. (This screening is offered at no charge for U.S. military veterans)

• Friday, February 10

o Peach Regional Women’s Luncheon

 12:00 p.m.

 Byron Municipal Complex (401 Main Street, Byron)

 This educational luncheon will feature Muhammed Ali, MD

 Please RSVP to 478-654-2002

• Monday, February 13

o Atrial Fibrillation Seminar

 6:30 p.m.

 Carlyle Place, Navicent Health, 5300 Zebulon Road, Macon

 This educational seminar will feature Daniel Haithcock, MD of Georgia Arrhythmia Consultants

 Please RSVP to 478-633-7157.

• Thursday, February 23

o Atrial Fibrillation Seminar

 6:30 p.m.

 Wellness Center, Navicent Health, 3797 Northside Drive, Macon

 This educational seminar will feature Daniel Haithcock, MD of Georgia Arrhythmia Consultants

 Please RSVP to 478-633-7157.

• Tuesday, February 28

o Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillator (ICD) Support Group

 5:30 p.m.

 Luce Heart Institute at The Medical Center, Navicent Health (777 Hemlock Street, Macon)

 Please RSVP to 478-633-7157

• Angioscreen Opportunities

o Angioscreen, a painless, non-invasive screening to determine a person’s risk of heart disease and stroke, will be offered on the following dates:

 Thursday, February 2

o 11:30 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.

o Wellness Center, Navicent Health (3797 Northside Drive., Macon)

 Wednesday, February 8

o 8:30 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.

o Luce Heart Institute at The Medical Center, Navicent Health (777 Hemlock St., Macon)

 Wednesday, February 15

o 7:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.

o Luce Heart Institute at The Medical Center, Navicent Health (777 Hemlock St., Macon)

 Wednesday, February 22

o 8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.

o Oconee Regional Medical Center (821 N. Cobb St., Milledgeville)

 Saturday, February 25

o 7:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.

o Monroe Regional Medical Complex (120 N. Lee Street, Forsyth)

 Tuesday, February 28

o 8:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.

o Putnam General Hospital (101 Lake Oconee Parkway, Eatonton)

o Please call 1-800-627-2393 to register. There is a $50.00 registration fee. However, this screening is free for U.S. military veterans.

For more information on Heart Fest 2017, please visit www.navicenthealth.org, keyword “Heart Fest.”

About Navicent Health

Navicent Health was incorporated on November 17, 1994, as a nonprofit corporation whose primary purpose is to coordinate the Medical Center, Navicent Health and other affiliated entities in their mission of providing a comprehensive continuum of high quality, reasonably priced healthcare services to the region. Navicent Health has 830 beds for medical, surgical, rehabilitation and hospice purposes. The health system includes The Medical Center, Navicent Health, a nationally recognized tertiary teaching hospital; Children’s Hospital, Navicent Health, the region’s only dedicated pediatric hospital; Medical Center of Peach County, Navicent Health, a rural critical access hospital; Rehabilitation Hospital, Navicent Health, the region’s oldest and most experienced rehabilitation provider; Pine Pointe, Navicent Health, which provides palliative and hospice care in homes and in its facility; Carlyle Place, Navicent Health, the area’s first continuing care retirement community; Navicent Health Foundation, the philanthropic arm of Navicent Health; as well as diagnostic and home care services. For more information, please visit www.navicenthealth.org.

publicrelations@navicenthealth.org

The Medical Center, Navicent Health Commits to Assisting Those Living with AFib

September 1, 2017 11:26 am

September 1, 2017 11:26 am

Atrial fibrillation (AFib), a heart condition marked by an irregular heartbeat, increases a patient’s risk for stroke, blood clots, heart failure and other heart-related complications. If left untreated, AFib may lead to death. However, many patients are unaware AFib is a serious condition. The Medical Center, Navicent Health (MCNH) is committed to raising awareness of this condition and navigating AFib patients toward wellness, and has implemented a three-part program to ensure the needs of AFib patients are met:

• Multidisciplinary Team Approach – MCNH recently developed a multidisciplinary team to guide AFib patients toward greater health and wellness. A program manager works closely with a team of clinical experts representing the fields of cardiology, electrophysiology, hematology, neurology, advanced practice nursing, and pharmacy to ensure collaboration and the implementation of the latest evidence-based practices in order to improve outcomes for AFib patients.;

• Nationally Recognized Measures and Benchmarks – MCNH has become one of two hospitals in the state to implement the American Heart Association’s “Get With the Guidelines – AFIB” program. This program will lead MCNH to meet specific quality achievement for the diagnosis and treatment of AFib. These quality measures are designed to help hospital teams follow the most up-to-date, evidence-based guidelines with the goal of speeding recovery and reducing death and disability for AFib patients.

• Professional and Patient Education Programs – MCNH will offer educational programs for physicians, clinicians and patients. Physicians and clinicians will be notified of the latest evidence-based treatments for AFib, while patients will be coached on disease management techniques.

“Atrial fibrillation is the most common heart rhythm disturbance in the United States. Recent medical advances continue to improve care for patients with AFib, but AFib represents a common cause of stroke. The important fact to remember is that stroke due to AFib can be prevented with proper care,” said Felix Sogade, MD, Physician Champion for Navicent Health’s AFib Center of Excellence Program.

AFib is caused by erratic electrical pulses passing through the heart, leading the heart to beat irregularly or at a higher rate of speed than is normal. Patients with AFib often experience a fluttering feeling, as well as shortness of breath, tiredness and/or dizziness. The American Heart Association estimates at least 2.7 million Americans are living with AFib, and predicts that number will rise as the population continues to age.

AFib requires treatment guided by qualified experts. Patients should not try to manage AFib on their own. Treatments may include prescription medications or specialized procedures called cardiac ablation. The board-certified physicians at MCNH are able to perform this procedure, guided by a three-dimensional mapping system, to electrically isolate the pulmonary veins and perform ablation around the openings of the veins. This procedure can completely eliminate the condition for the patient.

“At The Medical Center, Navicent Health, we specialize in treating and managing this condition, while reducing corresponding risks for complications so our patients may lead full, healthy lives into their later years,” said Johnnie Azar, RN, AFib Program Manager for MCNH.

“The Medical Center, Navicent Health is committed to helping those with AFib manage their disease, leading to better patient outcomes. We are leading the region in the treatment of AFib, and look forward to sharing success stories of patients treated through these new endeavors,” said Chris Hendry, MD, Chief Medical Officer for Navicent Health.

If you or a loved one are concerned about AFib and ready to seek treatment, contact Navicent Health at 1-844-633-7738 our AFIB Information line.

About Navicent Health

Navicent Health was incorporated on November 17, 1994, as a nonprofit corporation whose primary purpose is to coordinate the Medical Center, Navicent Health and other affiliated entities in their mission of providing a comprehensive continuum of high quality, reasonably priced healthcare services to the region. Navicent Health has 830 beds for medical, surgical, rehabilitation and hospice purposes. The health system includes The Medical Center, Navicent Health, a nationally recognized tertiary teaching hospital; Children’s Hospital, Navicent Health, the region’s only dedicated pediatric hospital; Medical Center of Peach County, Navicent Health, a rural critical access hospital; Rehabilitation Hospital, Navicent Health, the region’s oldest and most experienced rehabilitation provider; Pine Pointe, Navicent Health, which provides palliative and hospice care in homes and in its facility; Carlyle Place, Navicent Health, the area’s first continuing care retirement community; Navicent Health Foundation, the philanthropic arm of Navicent Health; as well as diagnostic and home care services. For more information, please visit www.navicenthealth.org.

publicrelations@navicenthealth.org

Health System Challenges Students to Design Patient-Centered Apps

September 1, 2017 11:35 am

September 1, 2017 11:35 am

Navicent Health’s Center for Disruption and Innovation, in partnership with Hutchings College and Career Academy and Mercer University, recently challenged local students to collaborate in order to solve real-world problems through innovation and technology.

Through the App Challenge (#Code4Care), held at Peyton Anderson Cancer Center, Navicent Health January 23-24, high school and college students were asked to design, code and prototype patient-centered apps from start to finish, with a goal of navigating patients and their loved ones through the continuum of care, including retail offerings.

“This challenge was an opportunity for Navicent Health to connect with some of the brightest young minds in central Georgia and give them an opportunity to solve real-world problems that affect their community. It also connected local high school students with local college students in an effort to create invaluable experiences in teamwork and opportunities amongst institutions for future collaborations,” said Simeon Sessley, Executive Director of Center for Disruption and Innovation, Navicent Health.

Five teams, each comprised of two Mercer University students and two Hutchings students, presented prototypes that addressed the following topics: campus navigation, dietary education, onsite meal ordering, surgical wait times and follow up, and physician information and education.

“I really loved the experience overall. Something that drew me to this was that it had a real-world application. My group actually got to meet with a patient and sit in as he was educated on his new dietary restrictions. It showed us that this was someone’s real life and this could potentially really help him,” said Tabita Strimbu, a senior at Mercer University studying graphic design.

Each participant received a prize bag for participating. One high school student and one college student also received an Apple iPad.

“The Healthcare App Challenge affords students in Bibb County School District the opportunity to engage in a non-traditional learning environment that will allow them to walk away with stackable credentials and relevant connections aligned to real-world experiences by participating with a collaborative team of a subject matter expert, college students and peers in the field of IT and healthcare. This type of learning environment brings out an unstoppable amount of creativity/innovation and prepares students for an emerging global society,” said Dr. Cassandra Washington, CTAE Director for the Bibb County School District.

“Mercer’s Department of Computer Science is excited to partner with Navicent Health and Hutchings College and Career Academy for this App Challenge, which gives our students a tremendous opportunity to work with healthcare professionals, as well as with high school students, in a creative, valuable, real-world endeavor,” said Dr. Bob Allen, professor and chair of computer science.

Navicent Health looks forward to hosting future App Challenges for students. For more information, please search #Code4Care.

About Navicent Health

Navicent Health was incorporated on November 17, 1994, as a nonprofit corporation whose primary purpose is to coordinate the Medical Center, Navicent Health and other affiliated entities in their mission of providing a comprehensive continuum of high quality, reasonably priced healthcare services to the region. Navicent Health has 830 beds for medical, surgical, rehabilitation and hospice purposes. The health system includes The Medical Center, Navicent Health, a nationally recognized tertiary teaching hospital; Children’s Hospital, Navicent Health, the region’s only dedicated pediatric hospital; Medical Center of Peach County, Navicent Health, a rural critical access hospital; Rehabilitation Hospital, Navicent Health, the region’s oldest and most experienced rehabilitation provider; Pine Pointe, Navicent Health, which provides palliative and hospice care in homes and in its facility; Carlyle Place, Navicent Health, the area’s first continuing care retirement community; Navicent Health Foundation, the philanthropic arm of Navicent Health; as well as diagnostic and home care services. For more information, please visit www.navicenthealth.org.

publicrelations@navicenthealth.org

Navicent Health Joins AVIA to Continue Raising Bar for Strategic Innovation

September 1, 2017 11:49 am

September 1, 2017 11:49 am

Navicent Health is pleased to announce it is joining AVIA, the nation’s leading network for health systems seeking to innovate and transform through digital strategy.

Committed to disruption through innovation, Navicent Health launched its Center for Disruption & Innovation (CfDI) in November 2015. The center fosters collaboration among healthcare thought leaders as they apply innovation to evidence-based research and value-driven processes, specifically with a focus on the optimization of healthcare delivery and elimination of variation, as well as the development and commercialization of new products.

“At Navicent Health, our desire is to lead the industry through innovation and research. Through our partnership with AVIA, we will work closely with other network members to collaborate on important topics and solve challenges through both digital and broader methods of innovation,” said Dr. Ninfa M. Saunders, President and CEO of Navicent Health.

AVIA, based in Chicago, connects more than 20 action-oriented health systems across the nation. Together they seek to transform healthcare through innovative digital solutions that solve healthcare’s biggest strategic challenges, including post-discharge care, clinician burnout, mental health access, and high reliability. AVIA Innovator Network members gain efficiency through collaboration, leveraging the Network’s knowledge to arrive at smart, fast, confident decisions.

“We are excited to join an organization that is committed to shaping the future of healthcare and does so through a network of leading, innovative health systems. We look forward to working closely with AVIA members to effectively innovate and create change in both healthcare and technology for the benefit of our patients and consumers,” said Christopher Cornue, Chief Strategy and Innovation Officer, Navicent Health.

From its inception, the primary goal of CfDI has been to foster creative thinking and problem solving while developing strategies that will ultimately benefit the customer. Navicent Health’s goal is to not only affect change for the benefit of patients in central and south Georgia, but to also share innovation and research throughout the industry.

“Our relationship with AVIA will further allow the Center for Disruption and Innovation to empower Navicent Health leaders with the proper tools, insights and frameworks to better respond to the needs of our patients and customers,” said Simeon Sessley, Executive Director of CfDI.

AVIA guides member health systems – including Providence St. Joseph Health, BayCare, Northwestern Medicine, and UAB Medicine among others – to define strategic goals and map an action plan that links digital opportunities to business imperatives. Action plans not only focus on quick solutions, but also on long-term transformation to create a balanced portfolio of innovation activities. AVIA prepares members for successful implementations by supporting problem identification, business case development, operational planning, and pilot design. This rigorous process accelerates scaled deployments, unlocking the true potential of innovation and driving clinical and financial results.

“Navicent Health is bold, optimistic, and committed to action – a perfect fit for the AVIA Innovator Network. They are doing impressive work in Georgia, and are now immediately connected to peers across the nation that share their passions and pursuits,” said Eric Langshur, CEO and co-founder of AVIA. “We are very excited to help Navicent Health achieve their ambitions.”

“Through our partnership with AVIA, we will continue to meet our goal of creating change throughout the industry and better secure Navicent Health’s longer term relevance and sustainability,” said Cornue.

About Navicent Health

Navicent Health was incorporated on November 17, 1994, as a nonprofit corporation whose primary purpose is to coordinate the Medical Center, Navicent Health and other affiliated entities in their mission of providing a comprehensive continuum of high quality, reasonably priced healthcare services to the region. Navicent Health has 830 beds for medical, surgical, rehabilitation and hospice purposes. The health system includes The Medical Center, Navicent Health, a nationally recognized tertiary teaching hospital; Children’s Hospital, Navicent Health, the region’s only dedicated pediatric hospital; Medical Center of Peach County, Navicent Health, a rural critical access hospital; Rehabilitation Hospital, Navicent Health, the region’s oldest and most experienced rehabilitation provider; Pine Pointe, Navicent Health, which provides palliative and hospice care in homes and in its facility; Carlyle Place, Navicent Health, the area’s first continuing care retirement community; Navicent Health Foundation, the philanthropic arm of Navicent Health; as well as diagnostic and home care services. For more information, please visit www.navicenthealth.org.

About AVIA

AVIA runs the nation’s leading network for health systems seeking to innovate and transform through digital strategy. The AVIA Innovator Network brings together action-oriented health systems to solve pressing challenges that are ripe for digital innovation. Network members collaborate on strategic initiatives like consumer engagement and post-discharge success. With AVIA’s rigorous process and the power of collaboration, members identify, deploy, and scale the best digital solutions to achieve financial and clinical impact. The result? Health systems accelerate their pace of transformation – moving faster with greater confidence. Learn more at aviahealthinnovation.com. Follow us on LinkedIn and Twitter.

publicrelations@navicenthealth.org

Navicent Health Calls Attention to Diabetes through Two Community Events

January 20, 2017 11:53 am

September 1, 2017 11:53 am

Diabetes, a condition affecting an estimated 29 million Americans, is a metabolic disease in which the body is unable to produce enough insulin to regulate glucose levels in the bloodstream. Many cases of diabetes go undiagnosed. If left untreated, diabetes can lead to serious and life-threatening conditions including blindness, heart attack, stroke, kidney disease and amputation.

Diabetes Healthways, Navicent Health invites central Georgians to learn more about diabetes and ways of combatting this illness. Two events are scheduled to raise diabetes awareness within the community.

Diabetes Connection Lunch & Learn

• Tuesday, February 7, 11:30 a.m.

• Peyton Anderson Cancer Center, Navicent Health (800 First Street, Macon)

• Kim Sinclair, RN, MSN, CDE will present “What’s New in Diabetes”

• Please RSVP to Diabetes Healthways at 478-633-1531 before Friday, January 27.

National Diabetes Alert Day

• Tuesday, March 28

• The American Diabetes Association has dedicated this day to encouraging Americans to take a Type 2 Diabetes risk test.

• Visit www.diabetes.org to determine your risk for Type 2 Diabetes.

“Diabetes is one of the major health problems in our region, and is most prevalent in Peach and Bibb Counties. Our hope is these events will raise community awareness of diabetes, contributing factors and appropriate management,” said Julie Deese, RN, BSN, CDE, Nurse Manager for Diabetes Healthways-Navicent Health

Those at risk for diabetes are encouraged to speak with their healthcare provider about managing risk. To locate a primary care provider, please visit www.navicenthealth.org and choose “Find a Doctor.” Maintaining a healthy weight, eating well and remaining active can also minimize diabetes risk.

About Navicent Health

Navicent Health was incorporated on November 17, 1994, as a nonprofit corporation whose primary purpose is to coordinate the Medical Center, Navicent Health and other affiliated entities in their mission of providing a comprehensive continuum of high quality, reasonably priced healthcare services to the region. Navicent Health has 830 beds for medical, surgical, rehabilitation and hospice purposes. The health system includes The Medical Center, Navicent Health, a nationally recognized tertiary teaching hospital; Children’s Hospital, Navicent Health, the region’s only dedicated pediatric hospital; Medical Center of Peach County, Navicent Health, a rural critical access hospital; Rehabilitation Hospital, Navicent Health, the region’s oldest and most experienced rehabilitation provider; Pine Pointe, Navicent Health, which provides palliative and hospice care in homes and in its facility; Carlyle Place, Navicent Health, the area’s first continuing care retirement community; Navicent Health Foundation, the philanthropic arm of Navicent Health; as well as diagnostic and home care services. For more information, please visit www.navicenthealth.org.

publicrelations@navicenthealth.org

Navicent Health is Committed to Proactively Protecting You, Your Family and Your Caregivers During Flu Season

September 1, 2017 11:59 am

September 1, 2017 11:59 am

With influenza circulating in the community and primarily affecting young people, Navicent Health has set up a first line of defense. Navicent Health has implemented a youth visitation policy for the protection of patients, visitors and staff.

Effective Monday, January 16, 2017, children must be age 12 or older in order to visit The Medical Center, Navicent Health; Medical Center of Peach County, Navicent Health; and Rehabilitation Hospital, Navicent Health.

"The health of our patients and the community is the highest concern at Navicent Health. Our policies and actions are designed to protect those at greatest risk during the flu season,” said Chris Hendry, MD, Chief Medical Officer for Navicent Health.

Administrators at Navicent Health based the decision to restrict visitation on information from the Centers of Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the prevalence of influenza in the region at this time.

Individuals with flu-like symptoms and those who have recently had the flu are encouraged to remain at home and stay away from public areas, including school, work, theaters or other areas where people are in close proximity.

Anyone with symptoms of a cold, or others with immunocompromised health status, are encouraged not to visit the hospital for their own protection as well as that of seriously ill patients.

“We appreciate the community’s understanding and cooperation with these efforts to minimize exposure during this active flu season,” said Dr. Hendry.

About Navicent Health

Navicent Health was incorporated on November 17, 1994, as a nonprofit corporation whose primary purpose is to coordinate the Medical Center, Navicent Health and other affiliated entities in their mission of providing a comprehensive continuum of high quality, reasonably priced healthcare services to the region. Navicent Health has 830 beds for medical, surgical, rehabilitation and hospice purposes. The health system includes The Medical Center, Navicent Health, a nationally recognized tertiary teaching hospital; Children’s Hospital, Navicent Health, the region’s only dedicated pediatric hospital; Medical Center of Peach County, Navicent Health, a rural critical access hospital; Rehabilitation Hospital, Navicent Health, the region’s oldest and most experienced rehabilitation provider; Pine Pointe, Navicent Health, which provides palliative and hospice care in homes and in its facility; Carlyle Place, Navicent Health, the area’s first continuing care retirement community; Navicent Health Foundation, the philanthropic arm of Navicent Health; as well as diagnostic and home care services. For more information, please visit www.navicenthealth.org

publicrelations@navicenthealth.org

Navicent Health Physician Named One of Asias Top Young Leaders

September 1, 2017 1:30 pm

September 1, 2017 1:30 pm

Avinesh Bhar, M.D. – one of the newest physicians to join Navicent Health Physician Group – has been selected as one of 33 professionals from 24 countries to join the 2016 Class of Asia 21 Young Leaders.

Asia 21 is a network of young leaders representing the public, private and nonprofit sectors chosen through a highly competitive process based on outstanding achievement, commitment to public service and proven ability to “make the world a better place.” Dr. Bhar, along with other members of the 2016 Class and select Asia 21 alumni, gathered at the recent Asia 21 Summit, held December 8-10 in Seoul, to share best practices in leadership and public service.

“It’s a humbling experience, being in the company of truly exceptional individuals. It is my goal to use this platform to be a disruptive voice in the current healthcare conversation, and move the conversation from one that is healthcare or industry-focused to one that is focused on the individual and his or her health,” said Dr. Bhar.

“At Navicent Health, we pride ourselves on keeping the patient at the center of all we do as we navigate the individual toward health and wellness. Dr. Bhar’s vision for care is very much in line with the values of Navicent Health, and we are privileged to welcome such a bright young mind to our team of expert physicians,” said Dr. Ninfa M. Saunders, President and CEO of Navicent Health.

Board-certified in Internal Medicine, Pulmonology, Critical Care and Sleep Medicine, Dr. Bhar joined Navicent Health Physician Group in November from Mercer University School of Medicine, where he served as Assistant Professor of Internal Medicine. Dr. Bhar moved to Macon in 2013 after completing a sleep medicine fellowship at Washington University in St. Louis and his internal medicine residency at New York Medical Center of Queens. A native of Kuala Lumpur, Dr. Bhar is currently pursuing his executive Masters of Business Administration at the University of Chicago’s Booth Business School.

Dr. Bhar specializes in the treatment of asthma, COPD, cystic fibrosis, insomnia, lung cancer, narcolepsy, parasomnia, pulmonary embolism, pulmonary fibrosis, pulmonary hypertension, pulmonary infections, sleep apnea, restless leg syndrome and other pulmonary and sleep disorders. To schedule a consultation with Dr. Bhar, please call (478) 633-6272. You may follow Dr. Bhar at @AviBhar.

Navicent Health Physician Group is a multispecialty physician-led group of more than 150 physicians serving the region. To learn more, please visit www.navicenthealth.org.

About Navicent Health

Navicent Health was incorporated on November 17, 1994, as a nonprofit corporation whose primary purpose is to coordinate the Medical Center, Navicent Health and other affiliated entities in their mission of providing a comprehensive continuum of high quality, reasonably priced healthcare services to the region. Navicent Health has 830 beds for medical, surgical, rehabilitation and hospice purposes. The health system includes The Medical Center, Navicent Health, a nationally recognized tertiary teaching hospital; Children’s Hospital, Navicent Health, the region’s only dedicated pediatric hospital; Medical Center of Peach County, Navicent Health, a rural critical access hospital; Rehabilitation Hospital, Navicent Health, the region’s oldest and most experienced rehabilitation provider; Pine Pointe, Navicent Health, which provides palliative and hospice care in homes and in its facility; Carlyle Place, Navicent Health, the area’s first continuing care retirement community; Navicent Health Foundation, the philanthropic arm of Navicent Health; as well as diagnostic and home care services. For more information, please visit www.navicenthealth.org.

publicrelations@navicenthealth.org

Georgia Trend Names The Medical Center, Navicent Health a Top Teaching Hospital

September 1, 2017 1:55 pm

September 1, 2017 1:55 pm

Georgia Trend, a regional business publication offering business analysis to more than 50,000 subscribers, recently released its “Georgia Trend 2016 Top Hospitals” listing, including The Medical Center, Navicent Health as one of the top teaching hospitals in the state of Georgia.

Georgia Trend ranked the state’s Top Teaching Hospitals as follows:

1. Emory University Hospital, Atlanta

2. Emory University Hospital Midtown, Atlanta

3. Grady Memorial Hospital, Atlanta

4. The Medical Center, Navicent Health, Macon

5. Memorial University Medical Center, Savannah

6. Augusta University Medical Center, Augusta

7. WellStar Atlanta Medical Center, Atlanta

Hospitals were ranked based on their Total Performance Score, a measure calculated by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services and based on clinical processes, efficiency, patient experience and patient outcomes.

“We are honored to be recognized by Georgia Trend as one of the top teaching hospitals in our state. We are not only improving healthcare for our patients directly, but also impacting the future of healthcare by educating and training the next generation of physicians and clinicians. These students, residents and fellows will carry the skills they learn in Macon to assist patients locally, regionally, nationally and even internationally,” said Dr. Ninfa M. Saunders, President and CEO of Navicent Health.

According to its website, Georgia Trend groups hospitals into four categories – Teaching Hospitals, regardless of bed count; Large Hospitals (250 or more patient beds); Medium Hospitals (100-249 patient beds); and Small Hospitals (less than 100 patient beds). Georgia Trend defines teaching hospitals as hospitals whose primary mission includes teaching and are certified by the association of American Medical Colleges Council of Teaching Hospitals and Health Systems.

The Medical Center, Navicent Health offers five accredited physician residency programs and three fellowship programs. In addition, the hospital partners with a number of colleges, universities and technical schools to offer training to students entering various healthcare fields.

Georgia Trend is the only statewide business publication in the market, reaching more than 50,000 subscribers. The monthly publication offers analysis of business and political trends around the state and economic development at the local level; creates a forum for leaders to voice their opinions on critical issues; and recognizes individuals who make a positive impact on the state.

About Navicent Health

Navicent Health was incorporated on November 17, 1994, as a nonprofit corporation whose primary purpose is to coordinate the Medical Center, Navicent Health and other affiliated entities in their mission of providing a comprehensive continuum of high quality, reasonably priced healthcare services to the region. Navicent Health has 830 beds for medical, surgical, rehabilitation and hospice purposes. The health system includes The Medical Center, Navicent Health, a nationally recognized tertiary teaching hospital; Children’s Hospital, Navicent Health, the region’s only dedicated pediatric hospital; Medical Center of Peach County, Navicent Health, a rural critical access hospital; Rehabilitation Hospital, Navicent Health, the region’s oldest and most experienced rehabilitation provider; Pine Pointe, Navicent Health, which provides palliative and hospice care in homes and in its facility; Carlyle Place, Navicent Health, the area’s first continuing care retirement community; Navicent Health Foundation, the philanthropic arm of Navicent Health; as well as diagnostic and home care services. For more information, please visit www.navicenthealth.org.

publicrelations@navicenthealth.org

PEP Talks for Parents on Canine Assisted Therapy at Autism Center, Navicent Health

September 1, 2017 2:03 pm

September 1, 2017 2:03 pm

Autism Center, Navicent Health is pleased to host monthly support meetings for families living with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and other developmental disorders. Free monthly support and training is offered through Parent Empowerment Program (PEP) Talks.
>p>The next PEP Talk will take place on Tuesday, January 10 at 6:00 p.m. at Autism Center, Navicent Health (1014 Forsyth Street, Macon). Parking is available in the Yellow Parking Deck.

The topic for the January meeting will be Canine Assisted Therapy. Therapy dogs Charles and Scotty, along with their handlers, will teach attendees about the benefits of pet therapy. Media are cordially invited to attend this PEP Talk. Please RSVP prior to attending.

PEP Talks are hosted on the second Tuesday of each consecutive month and feature a variety of topics useful for families affected by ASD and other developmental disorders. PEP Talks are free for family members, educators, healthcare professionals and the public, and offer evidence-based information along with tools and tips for families to use at home, school and within the community.

While PEP Talks are free, registration is encouraged. Please contact Autism Center, Navicent Health at 478-633-8100 or at autism@navicenthealth.org to register.

About Navicent Health

Navicent Health was incorporated on November 17, 1994, as a nonprofit corporation whose primary purpose is to coordinate the Medical Center, Navicent Health and other affiliated entities in their mission of providing a comprehensive continuum of high quality, reasonably priced healthcare services to the region. Navicent Health has 830 beds for medical, surgical, rehabilitation and hospice purposes. The health system includes The Medical Center, Navicent Health, a nationally recognized tertiary teaching hospital; Children’s Hospital, Navicent Health, the region’s only dedicated pediatric hospital; Medical Center of Peach County, Navicent Health, a rural critical access hospital; Rehabilitation Hospital, Navicent Health, the region’s oldest and most experienced rehabilitation provider; Pine Pointe, Navicent Health, which provides palliative and hospice care in homes and in its facility; Carlyle Place, Navicent Health, the area’s first continuing care retirement community; Navicent Health Foundation, the philanthropic arm of Navicent Health; as well as diagnostic and home care services. For more information, please visit www.navicenthealth.org.

publicrelations@navicenthealth.org

Eight Week Fall Prevention Course Offered to Senior Adults

September 1, 2017 2:08 pm

September 1, 2017 2:08 pm

Each year, one in four adults over the age of 65 will fall, and many of these falls will lead to serious injuries, such as broken hips. Many senior adults fear falling and often limit their activities in an effort to decrease risk. These limitations, however, may lead to physical weakness and increase their risk of falling.

In order to combat both the fear of and risk of falling, Navicent Health will offer “A Matter of Balance,” an eight-week course that will begin on January 10, 2017. The course consists of eight two-hour sessions that will take place at Rehabilitation Hospital, Navicent Health (3351 Northside Drive in Macon). Classes will meet each Tuesdays, 2:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m., January 10 – February 28. This free course is open to the community and limited to 15 participants.

"One-third to one-half of older adults acknowledges fear of falling, and fear of falling is associated with: decreased satisfaction with life, increased frailty, decreased mobility, decreased social activity and depression. A Matter of Balance seeks to decrease fear while improving balance and quality of life,” said Kathleen McKinney, PT, A Matter of Balance course instructor.

Participants in A Matter of Balance will learn the following:

• To view falls as preventable

• To set goals to increase activity

• To exercise to increase strength and balance

• To make changes to reduce their fall risk at home

If you are concerned about falling, have fallen in the past or want to improve balance, flexibility and strength, call 478-201-6678 to register for “A Matter of Balance.”

About Navicent Health

Navicent Health was incorporated on November 17, 1994, as a nonprofit corporation whose primary purpose is to coordinate the Medical Center, Navicent Health and other affiliated entities in their mission of providing a comprehensive continuum of high quality, reasonably priced healthcare services to the region. Navicent Health has 830 beds for medical, surgical, rehabilitation and hospice purposes. The health system includes The Medical Center, Navicent Health, a nationally recognized tertiary teaching hospital; Children’s Hospital, Navicent Health, the region’s only dedicated pediatric hospital; Medical Center of Peach County, Navicent Health, a rural critical access hospital; Rehabilitation Hospital, Navicent Health, the region’s oldest and most experienced rehabilitation provider; Pine Pointe, Navicent Health, which provides palliative and hospice care in homes and in its facility; Carlyle Place, Navicent Health, the area’s first continuing care retirement community; Navicent Health Foundation, the philanthropic arm of Navicent Health; as well as diagnostic and home care services. For more information, please visit www.navicenthealth.org.

publicrelations@navicenthealth.org

The Medical Center, Navicent Health Nationally Recognized for Organ Donation Efforts

December 16, 2016 12:23 pm

December 16, 2016 12:23 pm

Hospital Participates in National Campaign to Promote Organ, Eye and Tissue Donation

LifeLink® of Georgia has announced The Medical Center, Navicent Health (MCNH) achieved Platinum Recognition in a national campaign to promote organ, eye and tissue donation through enrollment in state organ donor registries.

MCNH conducted awareness and registration campaigns as part of the national Workplace Partnership for Life (WPFL) Hospital Campaign in order to educate staff, patients, visitors and community members about the critical need for organ, eye and tissue donors. By doing so, MCNH assisted in increasing the number of potential donors on Georgia’s Organ and Tissue Donor Registry.

“The Medical Center, Navicent Health is a great champion for organ, eye, and tissue donation. We are proud of this accomplishment and applaud Navicent Health for making a difference in the lives of the more than 5,600 Georgians that are currently waiting for transplant. It is because of these professionals’ unyielding dedication to saving lives that we applaud their achievements,” said Chuck Massey, Hospital Development Liaison with LifeLink of Georgia.

Sponsored by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services’ Health Resources and Services Administration, the WPFL campaign brings national partners, including MCNH, together to educate communities on the importance of organ, eye and tissue donation. Participating hospitals received platinum, gold, silver or bronze level recognition by earning points for awareness and registry activities conducted between May 2015 and April 2016. The WPFL campaign has added 400,000 donor enrollments to state registries nationwide since 2011.

“We are pleased that our organization has received this national accolade in recognition of our employees’ tireless efforts to save lives through organ donation. Navicent Health encourages the members of our community to commit to becoming an organ donor. Passing along the gift of life to someone in need is a beautiful act,” said Dr. Christopher Hendry, Chief Medical Officer for MCNH.

The need for organ and tissue donation is vital. Every 11 minutes another person is added to the national transplant waiting list that currently lists over 123,000 people. Sadly, approximately 22 people die daily because of the organ shortage.

To register your decision to be an organ, tissue and eye donor visit Donate Life Georgia’s Organ and Tissue Donor Registry at www.donatelifegeorgia.org or call 1-866-57-SHARE (74273), or say YES to donation when you apply for or renew your driver license or state identification card through Georgia’s Department of Driver Services. For more information about organ and tissue donation in Georgia visit LifeLink at www.LifeLinkFoundation.org. For information about the Workplace Partnership for Life Hospital Campaign, visit http://organdonor.gov/howhelp/hospitalcampaign.html.

Cowles Clinic and Navicent Health Announce Partnership

December 9, 2016 9:49 am

December 9, 2016 9:49 am

Union of Greene Co. Medical Specialty Clinic, Bibb Co. Health System to Enhance Access to Care

At a press event on Thursday, December 8, healthcare leaders from Cowles Clinic of Greensboro, Ga. and Navicent Health of Macon-Bibb County, Ga. announced their intent to enter into a strategic partnership. The partners will focus on patient access to efficient, high-quality healthcare services.

“The goal of our partnership is to expand primary care and specialized services for those who live in Georgia’s lake country, allowing us to recruit physicians and expand services to cover the continuum of care. The partnership will allow Navicent Health, with the strength and reputation of Dr. Robert Cowles and the Cowles Clinic, to expand resources in the lake country area in an effort to keep healthcare local,” said Dr. Ninfa Saunders, President and CEO of Navicent Health.

Founded in 2004, Cowles Clinic is the largest medical complex in the Lake Oconee area. Specialists practicing on the 13-acre campus primarily serve Greene, Morgan and Putnam County residents.

“Cowles Clinic has always been focused on providing the highest quality of healthcare to the people in the greater Lake Oconee area and beyond. Together with Navicent Health, we will expand the number of quality services, physicians and technologies offered to residents not only of the greater Lake Oconee area, but throughout Georgia, the Southeast and the U.S. Our partnership will allow us to achieve that goal,” said Robert Cowles, M.D., urologist and founder of Cowles Clinic.

Initially, the partners will focus on expanding services through the creation of a women’s health center and expanded cardiology services, as well as the addition of primary care and pediatric physicians. The partners will also revitalize the clinic’s existing cardiology practice and imaging center.

Through the partnership, Navicent Health Physician Group plans to bring four new physicians to the area within the coming weeks:

• Dr. John Hennecken, who trained at Yale University and is board-certified in Cardiovascular Disease, Internal Medicine, Echocardiography, Nuclear Cardiology and Lipidology. Dr. Hennecken focuses on general and preventative cardiology.

• Dr. Shanna Holcomb, a graduate of the Mercer University School of Medicine, who is board-certified in Obstetrics and Gynecology. She has practiced in the Milledgeville area since 2010 and is a North American Menopause Society Certified Menopause Practitioner.

• Dr. Nathan Kow, who studied at Emory University and trained at Cleveland Clinic, offers services for Female Pelvic Medicine and Reconstructive Surgery and offers a wide variety of innovative treatments for incontinence, pelvic organ prolapse, and other pelvic floor disorders that affect the quality of life for women.

• Dr. Eric Long, a board-certified General Surgeon who joined Surgical Institute, Navicent Health in 2014 after completing his General Surgery Residency and Surgical Critical Care Fellowship at the Mercer University School of Medicine.

Navicent Health Physician Group will continue to bring additional physicians to the area through the partnership in the coming months.

“In order to expand, we needed help, and we needed help from an organization that is physician and patient oriented. That is a great description of Navicent Health. Our partnership with Navicent Health will enable us to expand our service offerings. Navicent Health is well respected throughout the region and our new relationship will enable us to become one of the leading outpatient healthcare centers in the Southeastern United States. Together, we will continue the momentum of growth that began here 13 years ago,” said Dr. Cowles.

Since 2013, Navicent Health has focused on the development of strategic partnership with the goal of creating medical neighborhoods throughout central and south Georgia. Such partnerships allow healthcare providers to recruit physicians and expand healthcare services along the continuum of care in an effort to keep healthcare local and cost-effective for patients, providers and payors.

PEP Talks for Parents at Autism Center, Navicent Health

December 6, 2016 11:27 am

December 6, 2016 11:27 am

December Holiday Celebration for those living with ASD, Developmental Disabilities

Autism Center, Navicent Health is pleased to host monthly support meetings for families living with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and other developmental disorders. Free monthly support and training is offered through Parent Empowerment Program (PEP) Talks.

In place of its regularly scheduled monthly PEP Talk, Autism Center will host a holiday celebration on Tuesday, December 13 at 6:00 p.m. The celebration will take place at Autism Center, Navicent Health (1014 Forsyth Street, Macon). Parking is available in the Yellow Parking Deck. Families affected by ASD and other developmental disorders, as well as pediatricians, educators and other caregivers, are invited to attend this free event.

“This will be an evening of fun for our families to mix and mingle with each other, as well as past PEP Talk speakers and experts in their field. We ask people to wear festive holiday attire and join us for refreshments and a holiday prize drawing,” said Maureen Eckard, Project Manager with Autism Center, Navicent Health.

PEP Talks are hosted on the second Tuesday of each consecutive month and feature a variety of topics useful for families affected by ASD and other developmental disorders. PEP Talks are free for family members, educators, healthcare professionals and the public, and offer evidence-based information along with tools and tips for families to use at home, school and within the community.

While PEP Talks are free, registration is encouraged. Please contact Autism Center, Navicent Health at 478-633-8100 or at autism@navicenthealth.org to register.

Are The Toys & Gifts You Purchase Safe for Children?

December 1, 2016 10:15 am

December 1, 2016 10:15 am

Children’s Hospital Physicians Encourage Gift Givers to Consider Safety when Purchasing Presents

The holiday season is a wonderful time to give gifts to the children in our lives, but pediatricians at Children’s Hospital, Navicent Health encourage gift givers to exercise caution when selecting presents for little ones.

According to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, hospital emergency rooms in the U.S. treated approximately 254,200 toy-related injuries in 2015, with approximately 73 percent of those younger than age 15.

“People are excited about gift giving at this time of year, and we all want to give our children and grandchildren the new toys they desire, but shoppers need to remember several safety factors before they make their purchases,” said Dr. Anthony Pearson-Shaver, Chief of Pediatrics at Children’s Hospital, Navicent Health.

The pediatricians at Children’s Hospital, Navicent Health offer the following tips for shoppers:

• Look for age appropriate labels on toys. The toy should suit the age and individual skills and abilities of the child who will receive it, especially if the recipient is younger than three years of age.

• Look for safety inspection labels.

• Avoid toys that shoot, have parts that fly off, have points or sharp edges.

• Make sure that toys are not too loud and will not cause hearing damage if the child holds it to his or her ear.

• Choose sturdy toys that will not break easily.

• Choose crayons and markers that are designated “nontoxic.”

• Toys made with fabric should be labeled as flame resistant or flame retardant. Plush toys should be washable.

• Include protective equipment with sporting equipment – for example, give a helmet and protective padding when giving a bicycle or skates.

• Toys with magnets and button batteries may cause serious injury or death if swallowed. Do not give gifts that contain these or any small parts to young children.

• Avoid toys with ropes, cords and heating elements.

• Show your children how to use the toy safely, and always supervise children as they play.

In addition, older toys may contain lead based paint. Try to choose toys that use lead free paint. As a precaution, parents should educate themselves on symptoms of lead poisoning and be aware of toys that have been recalled due to lead exposure. Parents should contact a physician if they believe their child has been exposed to lead.

“Toys are not only fun, but are also an important part of any child’s development. Children are best protected when parents, grandparents or other loved ones carefully choose their toys and supervise their play,” said Dr. Pearson-Shaver.

Childrens Hospital Invites Community to Family Friendly Tree Lighting Event

November 30, 2016 9:46 am

November 30, 2016 9:46 am

Kohl’s Department Stores to Donate More than $32,600 to Children’s Hospital, Navicent Health

The community is invited to join Children’s Hospital, Navicent Health on Monday, December 5 at 6:00 p.m. for an annual holiday tradition, the lighting of The Children’s Tree.

Destiny Chamberlin, a 10-year-old from Fort Valley, Ga. and a patient at Children’s Hospital, Navicent Health will light the tree in honor of all of the hospital’s young patients. The Mercer University Children’s Choir will provide musical entertainment for the event. Representatives from Kohl’s Department Stores will also present a donation of $32,662 to a Children’s Hospital, Navicent Health safety program and provide giveaways for children and safety awareness information for parents.

Festivities will take place at The Medical Center, Navicent Health’s Albert Luce Jr. Heart Institute, located at the corner of First and Hemlock Streets. Guests may park in the surface parking lot at the corner of Hemlock and First Streets at no charge.

Since 2006, the Kohl’s Cares® program has generously given over $386,000 to Children’s Hospital, Navicent Health. The funds have enabled the establishment and growth of the “Kohl’s Cares For Kids® Safety Zone” program, which promotes child passenger safety awareness and education.

Kohl's commitment to Children’s Hospital, Navicent Health is made possible through the Kohl's Cares® cause merchandise program. Through this initiative, Kohl’s sells $5 books and plush toys where 100 percent of net profit benefits children’s health and education programs nationwide, including hospital partnerships like this one. Kohl's has raised more than $257 million through this merchandise program.

Announcing MedLaw for Low Income and Elderly Patients

November 21, 2016 11:04 am

November 21, 2016 11:04 am

New Legal Service Provided In Partnership by Navicent Health, Mercer University School of Law and Georgia Legal Services Program

Navicent Health is pleased to introduce MedLaw, an interdisciplinary team comprised of legal, social and medical workers that will provide free civil legal services to qualified Navicent Health patients. MedLaw is provided in partnership between Navicent Health, Mercer University School of Law and Georgia Legal Services Program.

A ribbon cutting for MedLaw’s new office will be held on Tuesday, November 29 at 10:30 a.m. at The Medical Center, Navicent Health’s Albert Luce Heart Institute (777 Hemlock Street, Macon). The community is invited to attend this event to learn more about services provided by MedLaw.

MedLaw will serve Navicent Health patients who are low income or over the age of 60 and whose health, treatment or recovery is impeded by a legal need directly related to the patient’s health, when the patient has attempted to remedy the situation but has received an adverse response.

“Our goal is to help low income and elderly Navicent Health patients navigate the sometimes confusing legal system in cases where care may be affected. Our desire is to improve the health of our patients by removing any barriers to needed health services and care, in hopes of leading the citizens we served to a greater level of health and wellness,” said Dr. Ninfa M. Saunders, President and CEO of Navicent Health.

MedLaw looks forward to working with patients to remedy situations related to a number of issues, including but not limited to the following:

o Discharge from Long Term Care Facility or Home Health Program

o Social Security, after termination or denial

o Access to health insurance, including Medicaid and Medicare

o Housing and Utilities

o Income Maintenance, including food stamps and veteran’s benefits

o Guardianships

o Advance Directives and Qualified Income Trusts (QITs)

o Family Law in cases of domestic abuse when a legal need may affect access to care

Other non-criminal cases will be considered on a case-by-case basis.

MedLaw is located at The Medical Center, Navicent Health (777 Hemlock Street, Macon). Representatives of MedLaw are available to meet with patients Monday-Friday, 9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. To schedule a consultation, please call (478) 633-8108.

Healthy Dates for December 2016

November 18, 2016 3:10 pm

November 18, 2016 3:10 pm

Navicent Health's Healthy Dates - December 2016

12/1 – Empower Seniors Fall Risk Screening, appointments scheduled every hour from 9 a.m. – 5 p.m., Wellness Center, Navicent Health (3797 Northside Drive, Macon), 478.757.7817 for registration and information

12/1 – American Cancer Society Fresh Start smoking cessation class, 5 p.m., Cardiopulmonary Rehab, Navicent Health (777 Hemlock Street, Macon), 478.633.9090 for information

12/3 – Reindeer Run & Santa Stroll, benefitting Children’s Hospital, Navicent Health, www.navicenthealth.org/reindeerrun

12/3 – Prepared Childbirth Class, 9 a.m., 478.633.BABY or www.navicenthealth.org/pages/beginnings-classes to register, $50.00 fee / prepayment required

12/5 – Prepared Childbirth Class (Monday Series – 12/5, 12/12, 12/19), 7 p.m., 478.633.BABY or www.navicenthealth.org/pages/beginnings-classes to register, $50.00 fee / prepayment required 12/6 – Spinal Cord Injury Support Group, 6:30 p.m., Rehabilitation Hospital, Navicent Health (3351 Northside Drive, Macon), 478.201.6500 for information

12/6 – Men to Men Prostate Cancer Support Group, 7 p.m., Wellness Center, Navicent Health (3797 Northside Drive, Macon), 478.633.6349 for information

12/7 – Infant CPR Class, 6:30 p.m., 478.633.BABY or www.navicenthealth.org/pages/beginnings-classes to register for this free class, please register one month prior to due date

12/7 – Bariatric Support Group, 11 a.m., Bariatric & Metabolic Institute, Navicent Health (5437 Bowman Road, Macon) 478.633.5200 for information

12/12 – Chemotherapy Orientation Class, 10 a.m., Peyton Anderson Cancer Center Navicent Health (800 First Street, Macon), 478.633.8537 for reservations

12/12 – Prostate Cancer 101, 12 p.m., Peyton Anderson Cancer Center, Navicent Health (800 First Street, Macon), 478.633.8537 for reservations

12/13 – Mammo Marathon, 7 a.m. – 6 p.m., Breast Care Center, Navicent Health (800 First Street, Macon) Diagnostics Hardeman, Navicent Health (1650 Hardeman Avenue, Macon) or Diagnostics Zebulon, Navicent Health (5925 Zebulon Road Macon)

12/13 – PEP Talks for families living with developmental disabilities, 6:00 p.m., Autism Center, Navicent Health (1014 Forsyth Street, Macon), 478.633.8118 to register for this free seminar 12/14 – Caring for the Caregiver, 1 p.m., Peyton Anderson Cancer Center, Navicent Health (800 First Street, Macon), 478.633.2020 for information

12/14 – Ribbons of Hope Cancer Support Group, 1 p.m., Peyton Anderson Cancer Center, Navicent Health (800 First Street, Macon), 478.633.2020 for information

12/15 – The Pink Alliance breast cancer survivor group, 12 p.m., Peyton Anderson Cancer Center, Navicent Health (800 First Street, Macon), 478.633.4733 for reservations

12/17 – Breastfeeding Class, 10 a.m., 478.633.BABY or www.navicenthealth.org/pages/beginnings-classes to register for this free class

12/20 – ALS Support Group, 10 a.m., Rehabilitation Hospital, Navicent Health (3351 Northside Drive, Macon), 478.201.6500 for information

12/20 – Art Therapy for Cancer Patients and Survivors, 1 p.m., Peyton Anderson Cancer Center, Navicent Health (800 First Street, Macon) 478.633.8537 for information

12/20 - Stroke Support Group, 4 p.m., Rehabilitation Hospital, Navicent Health (3351 Northside Drive, Macon), 478.201.6500 to register

12/20 – Traumatic Brain Injury Support Group, 6:30 p.m., Rehabilitation Hospital, Navicent Health (3351 Northside Drive, Macon), 478.201.6500 for information

Recurring

Each Monday, Wednesday and Friday – Cancer WellFit, 9:00 a.m.; Wellness Center, Navicent Health, 3797 Northside Dr. Macon;. Visit www.navicenthealth.org/service-center/page/the-wellness-center-at-navicent-health/cancer-wellfit for information

Each Tuesday and Thursday – Power Over Parkinson’s, 9:30 a.m.; Wellness Center, Navicent Health, 3797 Northside Dr. Macon. Visit www.navicenthealth.org/service-center/page/the-wellness-center-at-navicent-health/power-over-parkinsons for information

Each Tuesday and Friday – free Blood Pressure Screenings, 9:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.; Medical Center, Navicent Health’s Health Resource Center Library at 877 Hemlock Street

SmartStart Cardiovascular Risk Reduction exercise and education program, reduce your risk for heart disease and stroke, call 478.633.9090 for more information

Wings Of Hope grief support for children and families. 478.621.8328 for an appointment with a transitions counselor

Navicent Health Foundation Receives $5,000 in Grant Funds from Flint Energies Foundation

November 15, 2016 10:37 am

November 15, 2016 10:37 am

Operation Round Up® Funds to Support NNICU Siblings

Navicent Health Foundation was recently awarded a $5,000 grant from the Flint Energies Foundation. The grant will allow Navicent Health to enhance family-centered care in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NNICU) at The Medical Center, Navicent Health.

Grant funds will support therapeutic activities for parents and siblings of NNICU patients, allowing Navicent Health to host weekly support groups for families, complete with therapeutic craft activities. Funds will also allow Child Life Specialists at Navicent Health to create Sibling Support Bags. Siblings will take their bag home after their first visit to the NNICU to learn more about their baby brother or sister, ease any anxiety about their care, and allow older siblings to feel more involved in the infant’s care.

“We are so very thankful to the Flint Energies Foundation, as well as Flint Energies members who participate in Operation Round Up. Your contributions truly are making a difference in the lives of others in our community,” said Ellen Terrell, Chief Development Officer of Navicent Health Foundation.

In 2001, Flint Energies adopted this uniquely simple and rewarding way to enable members to raise money for local charities and service organizations - Operation Round Up®. The electric cooperative’s members contribute nearly $200,000 annually to the Flint Energies Foundation, which supports worthy causes in the 17 counties it serves. Operation Roundup® is a way for members to add voluntarily to those funds in their own unique way.

Participating members allow Flint Energies to “round-up” their bill to the nearest dollar. For example, if a bill is $92.71, a member will pay $93, with all 29 cents going directly to the Flint Energies Foundation. If a member decides not to participate or chooses to discontinue contributions at any time, they may simply contact Flint Energies. Nearly 65 percent of Flint’s members have chosen to participate. Donations to Operation Round Up® are tax deductible and members receive a summary of contributions in future January and February bills.

The Medical Center, Navicent Health becomes Georgia's Only Nationally Verified Level I Trauma Center

November 14, 2016 10:22 am

November 14, 2016 10:22 am

Macon Hospital Receives Verification from American College of Surgeons

The Medical Center, Navicent Health (MCNH) is pleased to announce it has achieved verification as an American College of Surgeons (ACS) verified Level I trauma center. MCNH has been designated a Level I Trauma Center by the State of Georgia since 1998, and has now become the only Level I trauma center in the state and only one of 11 hospitals in the Southeast to achieve this additional, national recognition.

“The trauma team at The Medical Center, Navicent Health voluntarily sought verification from the American College of Surgeons, for the benefit of our patients and their loved ones. We have gone beyond the standard requirements for Level I trauma centers to exceed the highest standards set forth by this national certification body. At The Medical Center, Navicent Health, our trauma team seeks to be the best and to obtain the highest level of achievement,” said Dennis W. Ashley, MD, Director of Trauma and Critical Care for MCNH.

ACS is a scientific and educational association of surgeons that was founded in 1913 to improve the quality of care for the surgical patient by setting high standards for surgical education and practice. ACS is dedicated to improving the care of the surgical patient and to safeguarding standards of care in an optimal and ethical practice environment. As an ACS-verified trauma center, MCNH becomes the only Level I trauma center in the state to receive this verification and one of 112 ACS-verified Level I trauma centers in the United States.

“As the only Level I Trauma Center serving central Georgia, patients who rely on The Medical Center, Navicent Health for care receive the most comprehensive and all-inclusive care for their injuries. Now, as a nationally-recognized ACS Level I trauma center, our patients can trust that we are exceeding the standards in order to provide the highest levels of care,” said Ninfa M. Saunders, DHA, President and CEO of Navicent Health.

Of 185 hospitals in Georgia, only 22 are trauma centers. The state of Georgia classifies trauma centers on a scale of Levels I-IV, dependent on the level of care provided. Only six hospitals in the state – including MCNH – are classified at the most comprehensive level, Level I.

MCNH’s Level I trauma team, comprised of numerous surgeons in various specialties as well as highly-trained and specialized clinicians, is available 24 hours per day and able to provide the most sophisticated level of care for trauma patients. In addition, as a Level I trauma center, MCNH leads the field in research and provides training for future surgeons through residency and fellowship programs.

Level II trauma centers, while providing many of the same specialties as Level I trauma centers, do not participate in research or education. Level III trauma centers provide basic trauma care but do not employ the surgical specialists needed for more complex cases. The more complex patients are typically transferred to hospitals providing higher levels of care, including Level I trauma centers. Level IV trauma centers are primarily located in rural or critical access areas, where patients receive initial resuscitation and stabilization before they are transferred to a center providing a higher level of care.

“Across the nation, Level I trauma centers are typically in large, metropolitan areas. The availability of care provided at The Medical Center, Navicent Health is very rare in smaller communities like Macon. Patients in central and south Georgia are incredibly fortunate to have access to the Level I trauma services, now nationally verified by the American College of Surgeons, so close at hand when accidents and injuries occur,” said Chris Hendry, MD, Chief Medical Officer for MCNH.

Navicent Health Recognizes Lung Cancer & Pancreatic Cancer Awareness Month

November 4, 2016 11:43 am

November 4, 2016 11:43 am

Events to Promote Lung & Pancreas Health Scheduled for November

MACON, GA (Friday, November 4, 2016) – Navicent Health will host a series of events during the month of November in recognition of National Lung Cancer Awareness Month as well as National Pancreatic Cancer Awareness Month. The community is encouraged to participate in these events to raise awareness and support for those with lung and pancreatic cancer.

American Cancer Society “Fresh Start” tobacco cessation classes

This four-week class begins the first Thursday of each month at 5:00 p.m.

Cardiopulmonary Rehab, Navicent Health – 777 Hemlock Street, Macon (in the Luce Heart Institute, Navicent Health)

This four-week class meets once per week. Learn tips and tricks to stop smoking, and gain support from others who are also trying to quit.

For more information, please call 478-633-9090.

Benefit Night at Mellow Mushroom, Macon

Tuesday, November 15, 11:00 a.m. - 9:00 p.m.

Mellow Mushroom – 5425 Bowman Road, Macon

Mellow Mushroom will donate 10 percent of the proceeds from this event to Peyton Anderson Cancer Center, Navicent Health for lung and pancreatic cancer awareness activities.

“Light the Night” for Lung and Pancreatic Cancer

Thursday, November 17 at 6:00 p.m.

Peyton Anderson Cancer Center, Navicent Health – 800 First Street, Macon

Join others in our community who are coming together to honor lung and pancreatic cancer survivors, and remember those who have been lost to these two diseases.

Free parking is available in the Blue Parking Deck.

Please call 478-633-8555 to register for this free community event.

Great American Smokeout

Thursday, November 17

This is a day for smokers and other tobacco users to “butt out.” Tobacco users are encouraged to use this day to create a plan to quit, or even quit for the day, in hopes of quitting for good.

Call 478-633-9090 for more information.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), more men and women in the U.S. die from lung cancer than any other form of cancer. The American Cancer Society estimates that approximately 224,000 new cases of lung cancer will be diagnosed in 2016, and an estimated 158,000 people will die of the disease this year. Tobacco use, a leading contributor to lung cancer, remains the single largest preventable cause of disease and premature death in the U.S. Quitting, even for a day, is an important step toward a healthier life.

According to the American Cancer Society, an estimated 53,000 Americans will be diagnosed with pancreatic cancer in 2016, and approximately 42,000 people with pancreatic cancer will die of the disease this year. Tobacco use is a leading risk factor for pancreatic cancer, along with weight and obesity.

PEP Talks for Parents at Autism Center, Navicent Health

November 1, 2016 10:25 am

November 1, 2016 10:25 am

November Meeting to Discuss Holiday Preparation, Feature Toy Showcase

Autism Center, Navicent Health is pleased to host monthly support meetings for families living with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and other developmental disorders. Free monthly support and training is offered through Parent Empowerment Program (PEP) Talks.

The next PEP Talk will take place on Tuesday, November 1 at 6:00 p.m. at Autism Center, Navicent Health (1014 Forsyth Street, Macon). Parking is available in the Yellow Parking Deck. The November meeting will discuss holiday preparations and present a toy showcase in partnership with William’s Fun Smart Toys.

“We invite our families to join us to view this season’s newest toys as well as classics that encourage creative play. William’s Fun Smart Toys offers educational toys, games and puzzles for all children, regardless of their level of ability,” said Maureen Eckard, Project Manager with Autism Center, Navicent Health.

PEP Talks are hosted on the second Tuesday of each consecutive month and feature a variety of topics useful for families affected by ASD and other developmental disorders. PEP Talks are free for family members, educators, healthcare professionals and the public, and offer evidence-based information along with tools and tips for families to use at home, school and within the community.

While PEP Talks are free, registration is encouraged. Please contact Autism Center, Navicent Health at 478-633-8100 or at autism@navicenthealth.org to register.

Japanese Delegation Arrives at Navicent Health

October 19, 2016 12:43 pm

October 19, 2016 12:43 pm

Guests to Share Best Practices, Innovative Healthcare Techniques

Navicent Health welcomed a delegation from Kurobe Municipal Hospital (KMH) in Kurobe, Japan to The Medical Center, Navicent Health on Wednesday, October 19. The delegation from Macon’s sister city includes physicians, registered nurses and representatives of KMH’s pharmacy, education and residency training programs.

Navicent Health and KMH have enjoyed a sister hospital exchange program for more than a decade. Each year, one hospital sends clinicians and physicians to visit the other in an effort to share best practices, learn innovative techniques, and build relations between the two sister cities.

“This has been a long-time partnership and exchange built on knowledge transfer for the mutual benefit of both partners. Beyond the formal goals of this partnership is a special bond which connects us with each other, a profound and meaningful cultural exchange,” said Dr. Ninfa M. Saunders, President and CEO of Navicent Health.

“Our residents, nurses and faculty were greatly inspired by your visit. When we started this program in 2003, the major purpose was to give assistance to our residents. That was the start of this exchange. Later, we expanded this program to the nurses and also the doctors. Now we are expanding this program to other providers such as pharmacists, medical engineers and therapists. We appreciate both Navicent Health and Mercer University,” said Dr. Hiroshi Tsuji of KMH, who accompanies the delegations on each visit as they commence their training and continue their education.

Representatives of Navicent Health and KMH honored the legacy of Dr. TJ Lin during Wednesday’s reception. Dr. Lin, who was very instrumental in the creation of the exchange program, passed away earlier this year. Special thanks was also given to YKK USA’s Macon facility for their continued support of the exchange throughout the years.

KMH is licensed for 405 beds, employs approximately 600 staff members and serves the mountainous Toyama region of northern Japan.

Healthy Dates for November 2016

October 18, 2016 1:53 pm

October 18, 2016 1:53 pm

Navicent Health's Healthy Dates - NOvember 2016

11/1 – Spinal Cord Injury Support Group, 6:30 p.m., Rehabilitation Hospital, Navicent Health (3351 Northside Drive, Macon), 478.201.6500 for information

11/1 – Men to Men Prostate Cancer Support Group, 7 p.m., Wellness Center, Navicent Health (3797 Northside Drive, Macon), 478.633.6349 for information

11/3 – Empower Seniors Fall Risk Screening, appointments scheduled every hour from 9 a.m. – 5 p.m., Wellness Center, Navicent Health (3797 Northside Drive, Macon), 478.757.7817 for registration and information

11/3 – American Cancer Society Fresh Start smoking cessation class, 5 p.m., Cardiopulmonary Rehab, Navicent Health (777 Hemlock Street, Macon), 478.633.9090 for information

11/3 – Baby Care Basics, 7 p.m., 478.633.BABY or www.navicenthealth.org/pages/beginnings-classes to register for this free class

11/5 – Prepared Childbirth Class, 9 a.m., 478.633.BABY or www.navicenthealth.org/pages/beginnings-classes to register, $50.00 fee / prepayment required

11/7 – Prepared Childbirth Class (Monday Series – 11/7, 11/14, 11/21), 7 p.m., 478.633.BABY or www.navicenthealth.org/pages/beginnings-classes to register, $50.00 fee / prepayment required

11/8 – PEP Talks for families living with developmental disabilities, 6:00 p.m., Autism Center, Navicent Health (1014 Forsyth Street, Macon), 478.633.8118 to register for this free seminar

11/9 – Caring for the Caregiver, 1 p.m., Peyton Anderson Cancer Center, Navicent Health (800 First Street, Macon), 478.633.2020 for information

11/9 – Ribbons of Hope Cancer Support Group, 1 p.m., Peyton Anderson Cancer Center, Navicent Health (800 First Street, Macon), 478.633.202

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Events to Promote Lung & Pancreas Health Scheduled for November