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New Pediatric Hospitalist has Joined the Central Maine Medical Center Staff

Jonathan T. Fanburg, M.D., a pediatrician, has been appointed to the Central Maine Medical Center Medical Staff. He is practicing in association with Central Maine Inpatient Physicians Pediatric Hospitalist Service.

A magna cum laude graduate of Bowdoin College in Brunswick, he earned his medical degree at Vanderbilt University School of Medicine in Nashville, Tenn. He completed a pediatric internship and residency at The Children's Hospital in Denver and served an adolescent medicine fellowship at Children's National Medical Center in Washington, D.C. In 1998 he was awarded a master's degree in public health from the George Washington University in Washington, D.C.

Prior to beginning his work at CMMC, Fanburg practiced for eleven years with Maine Coast Pediatrics at Maine Coast Memorial Hospital in Ellsworth, where he provided care for young people in inpatient, outpatient, emergency department and critical care settings. He also served as school physician for the Ellsworth public school system.

His professional practice experience includes providing healthcare at Children's National Medical Center and three years as a care provider at the George Washington University Student Health Clinic. He also worked at the Denver school system and The Children's Hospital in Denver. He has served as a volunteer physician at hospitals in India and the Marianas Islands.

He is certified in pediatrics and adolescent medicine by the American Board of Pediatrics. He is also certified in Neonatal Advanced Life Support and Pediatric Advanced Life Support.

He is currently the president of the Maine Chapter of the American Academy of Pediatrics.

Fanburg has been active in numerous community service projects in the past, including Maine Youth Overweight Collaborative, Youth Obesity Think Tank, Maine Eating Disorders Collaborative, Maine State Legislature Task Force on Cervical Cancer, Regional School Nurses Work Group (Hancock County, Maine), Open Door Rehabilitation Center in Ellsworth, Tobacco Free Maine Hancock County Advisory Committee, and the Ellsworth Area Community Center Board of Directors.

He has educated students and residents from George Washington University, as well as Eastern Maine Medical Center and Husson College, both in Bangor.

He is a member of the Maine Medical Association, Society for Adolescent Medicine, and American Academy of Pediatrics.

In 2005 he was presented an American Academy of Pediatrics Special Achievement Award for "pioneer work in the field of telemedicine." He is the author or coauthor of numerous articles published in professional journals.

Fanburg lives in Portland with his wife and two children.

Central Maine Inpatient Physicians Pediatric Hospitalist Service is also comprised of Amy Belisle, M.D., Stephanie Boggs, M.D., Sheila M. Carroll, M.D., Jonathan T. Fanburg, M.D., John J. Hagerty, M.D., Dan C. Hale, M.D., Marly L. Larrabee, M.D., and Kimberly C. Owen, M.D.

02/08/2010

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"Come Be Inspired" is the theme of a Central Maine Heart and Vascular Institute Program

"Come Be Inspired" is the theme of a Central Maine Heart and Vascular Institute program set for February 22 in Auburn.

The keynote speaker for the event will be author, motivational speaker and educator Susan Arledge. Her topic will be "Superwoman: So Many Roles, So Little Time."

Many women play multiple, complex roles - wife, mother, daughter, caregiver, employee, employer, and volunteer, to name a few. Such demands can influence physical, mental, and emotional health. Arledge's presentation will emphasize practical tools for taking good care of total health while meeting day-to-day obligations.

Arledge is the author of "TGI Monday: 10 Strategies for Thriving in Today's Workplace." She earned a masters degree in counseling from The College of William and Mary in Williamsburg, Va. She has taught in the U.S., Germany, the Philippines, and the Virgin Islands.

Also speaking at the luncheon will be Cindie Rice, the Central Maine Heart and Vascular Institute’s director of health and wellness and cardiac rehabilitation.

She will consider "Women Are From Venus, Men Are From Mars: A Down-to-Earth Discussion About Heart Disease in Women."

Rice's presentation will examine how heart disease is the number one killer of American women, and the surprising differences between how heart disease affects men and women. The discussion will consider how heart attack symptoms in women can differ from the classic signs and how women can better listen to their body's signals and respond appropriately.

The program will be offered at Auburn Hilton Garden Inn Riverwatch in Auburn. The day's events will begin at 10:30 a.m. and conclude about 1 p.m.

A fee will be charged for participation, but covers the cost of a heart healthy lunch. The event will also feature various exhibits.

Anyone seeking more information is urged to visit the events calendar at www.cmmc.org, call 795-8448, or email prevention@cmhc.org

02/08/2010

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"Exercise Prescription" is the Topic of the Second Installment of a Five-Part "Mini-Medical School" Educational Series

"Exercise Prescription" is the topic of the second installment of a five-part "Mini-Medical School" educational series sponsored by Central Maine Medical Center and the Central Maine Heart and Vascular Institute. The program will be offered on February 17 at the Topsham Medical Building.

Elizabeth Rothe, M.D., from the Central Maine Medical Center Family Medicine Residency and Central Maine Sports Medicine, will discuss exercise as a treatment for health problems and the principles of prescribed exercise.

She will make her presentation from 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. at Topsham Medical Center, 4 Horton Place, Topsham.

Prior to beginning her work at Central Maine Medical Center, Rothe completed a sports medicine fellowship at Maine Medical Center in Portland.

A graduate of the University of Pittsburgh in Pittsburgh, Pa, she earned her medical degree from the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, also in Pittsburgh. She served a family medicine residency at Maine Medical Center.

Open to the community, the Mini-Medical School series explores a variety of topics, often providing participants with information about the latest breakthroughs and debates in medical science and how these issues might relate to their own health. All are welcome to attend and a background in science or medicine is not necessary.

Other installments in the Topsham Mini-Med series include:

Feb 24 - "Diabetes: What Can I Eat?" with registered nurse Chris Irish, a diabetes educator at Central Maine Medical Center. He will discuss how nutrition and physical activity can impact the management of diabetes.

March 3 - "Acupuncture: An Integrated Alternative" with David Salko, M.D. of Topsham Family Medicine. Acupuncture is gaining popularity in the United States as an alternative treatment for pain and other conditions. This lecture will discuss some of the foundations, principles and performance of acupuncture and how it can be used to achieve balance and enhance health.

March 10 - "Why Am I Not Getting Pregnant? A Contemporary Assessment" with infertility specialist Michael T. Drouin, M.D., of the Central Maine Fertility Center. He will discuss the many causes of Infertility and explain some of the most direct and cost effective way to discover answers and get treatment.

Registration is not necessary, but anyone seeking more information is urged to call 798-6227.

All Mini-Med presentations will be presented at no charge.

Interpreter services are available upon advance request.

02/05/2010

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Dempsey Challenge Registration Begins Saturday, January 30

Registration for the second annual Dempsey Challenge presented by Amgen will open Saturday, Jan. 30 at 9 a.m. Registrations will be accepted through the event website http://www.dempseychallenge.org. The non-competitive, fundraising event serves as the primary fundraiser for The Patrick Dempsey Center for Cancer Hope & Healing at Central Maine Medical Center, which provides free support, education and wellness services to cancer patients, survivors and caregivers.

Due to the popularity of the inaugural event, the Challenge has been expanded to a two-day format featuring run/walk distances of 5-kilometers (3.1 miles) and 10-kilometers (6.2 miles) on Saturday, Oct. 2 and cycling distances of 10, 25, 50 and 100-miles on Sunday, Oct. 3. Participant caps of 4,000 have been set for the run/walk and 3,500 for cycling. Each event will begin and end at Simard-Payne Police Memorial Park in Lewiston, Maine.

Dempsey Challenge event organizers are focused on providing an exceptional experience for everyone involved, as well as raising needed funds to aid the Dempsey Center. In addition to the required entry fee of $35 for the run/walk and $75 for cycling, a required fundraising minimum of $150 has been set for each registrant 18 years and over.

"The outpouring of support for this event has been incredible," said Patrick Dempsey, film and television actor and founder of the Dempsey Center. "It shows that anything is possible when people unite for a cause. I'm excited about the new two-day format and connecting with this community once again."

The inaugural one-day event attracted a maximum 3,500 participants from 32 states and four countries, over 600 volunteers and raised over one-million dollars. Dempsey participated in the 50-mile ride alongside professional cyclists George Hincapie, David Zabriskie, Stephen Roche and Ted King. Dempsey created the event as a fundraising vehicle for the Dempsey Center and to promote physical activity as an important part of daily life.

Amgen, a biotechnology company that makes medicines for people with serious illnesses including cancer, signed on in 2009, the inaugural year of the Dempsey Challenge, as the event's title sponsor. The sponsorship provides Amgen an opportunity to expand the reach of its Breakaway from Cancer® initiative, which aims to increase awareness of the important resources available to cancer patients, from prevention to education and patient care to advocacy and financial support.

"Amgen is pleased to return this year as presenting sponsor of the Dempsey Challenge," said Stuart Arbuckle, vice president and general manager of Amgen Oncology. " Amgen's Breakaway from Cancer initiative and the Dempsey Challenge, which supports the Patrick Dempsey Center for Cancer Hope & Healing, complement each other - both are focused on helping cancer patients get the support, education and wellness services they need."

Returning events include the Festival in the Park on Oct. 3. The Festival hosts a Health and Wellness Expo, KidZone, live entertainment, participant lobster bake and the Amgen Breakaway from Cancer Survivor Walk. Run/Walk participants will enjoy replenishment, plus a smaller version of the Health and Wellness expo, including merchandise and a Kids’ Fun Run on Oct. 2.

"After the overwhelming response we received in 2009, we are excited to expand the Challenge to a two-day format in order to accommodate more participants," said Dempsey Challenge event manager Wendy Tardif. "Our local organizing committee has already begun planning and they are eager to implement improvements recommended by participants and volunteers."

Participants are encouraged to create or join teams through the Dempsey Challenge website to assist their fundraising efforts. Volunteer information and registration will be available through the Challenge website on March 1.

About the Patrick Dempsey Center for Hope & Healing

The Patrick Dempsey Center for Cancer Hope & Healing was founded in March, 2008 by actor and Maine native Patrick Dempsey in response to his mother’ s multiple bouts with ovarian cancer. The Center provides free support, education and wellness services to cancer patients, survivors and caregivers. For more information, visit http://wwwdempseycenter.org.

About Breakaway from Cancer®

Founded by Amgen in 2005 as a complementary component to the company’s sponsorship of the Amgen Tour of California, Breakaway from Cancer strives to raise awareness of the important resources available to cancer patients from prevention to education, and patient care to advocacy and financial support. The initiative includes charitable partners Prevent Cancer Foundation, Cancer Support Community (formerly The Wellness Community), Patient Advocate Foundation and National Coalition for Cancer Survivorship. Learn more at http://www.breakawayfromcancer.com.

01/29/2010

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Two Area Photographers to be Featured at CMMC's Woman's Hospital Association's Rotating Art Gallery

The Central Maine Medical Center Woman's Hospital Association (WHA) will feature the work of two area photographers at its Rotating Art Gallery during February.

Cathy Case and Anne Huston will display samples of their work in the 60 High Street Main Lobby corridor at CMMC.

Case's interest in photography began with sporting events and later expanded to outdoors and nature scenes. In the past few years, she has developed a thriving portrait business and has found particular enjoyment in photographing high school seniors. "I love the excitement and enthusiasm they bring with them to their shoots and especially enjoy finding unique ways to help them show their personality," Case says.

Huston became interested in 35 mm photography while working at a commercial photography study more than 25 years ago. She admits having difficulty moving from film to digital photography, but has come to appreciate the flexibility that digital imaging allows. "I began making photo cards of my own images to use as stationary and personalized photo cards, and I have enjoyed displaying my framed photographs at several other venues," Huston
says.

Some of the works on display may be purchased through the WHA Gift Shop, located adjacent to the Main Lobby. A percentage of sale proceeds benefit CMMC.

01/27/2010

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"Restless Heart: The Relationship between Sleep Disorders and Heart Disease" Will Be Topic of Two CMMC Accenting Your Health Presentations

"Restless Heart: The Relationship between Sleep Disorders and Heart Disease" will be the topic of two Central Maine Medical Center Accenting Your Health presentations on February 11.

Diana Wilson, M.D., a sleep medicine specialist, will discuss how sleep problems can contribute to heart disease and how heart disease affects sleep. Wilson is medical director of the Central Maine Sleep Center and practices pulmonary and sleep medicine in association with Central Maine Pulmonary and Sleep Medicine at 76 High Street, Suite 300, in Lewiston.

A graduate of the University of Vermont School of Medicine in Burlington, Vt., she completed a fellowship in pulmonary and critical care medicine at Maine Medical Center in Portland and a fellowship in sleep medicine at Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center in Lebanon, N.H. She is certified in pulmonary disease, internal medicine, and critical care by the American Board of Internal Medicine. She is also certified by the American Board of
Sleep Medicine.

There is no cost for attending the presentation.

The hour-long program will be presented at 1:30 p.m. and again at 6 p.m. Both presentations will be offered in Conference Room H on the lower level of the 12 High Street Medical Office Building, adjacent to CMMC.

Those interested in attending either of the programs are urged to register in advance by calling 795-8448 or emailing prevention@cmhc.org

Interpreter services are available upon advance request.

01/22/2010

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EVENT POSTPONED: "Go with the Flow: Valvular Heart Disease"

"Go with the Flow: Valvular Heart Disease", a presentation by Lewiston cardiologist Michael Lemieux, M.D., that was scheduled for February 6 at Willy Beans Bistro and Café in Lewiston, has been postponed.

The event will be rescheduled for a later date.
_________________________

"Go with the Flow: Valvular Heart Disease" will be subject of a presentation by a Lewiston cardiologist on February 6.

Michael Lemieux, M.D. will explain how the heart's valves regulate blood flow, focusing on what implications a valve problem can have for heart health. He will talk about the different types of valvular heart disease and available treatments.

He will make his presentation - in both English and French - at Willy Beans Bistro and Café at 70 Lincoln Street in Lewiston. The French presentation will begin at 11:30 a.m. and conclude about 12:30 p.m. The English presentation will begin at 1 p.m.

The presentation is being offered at no charge.

Prior to beginning his work with Central Maine Heart Associates in 2008, Lemieux worked for several years with Northeast Cardiology Associates in Waterville. His professional experience also includes work as a private practitioner in the Lewiston-Auburn area.

A Lewiston native, he graduated summa cum laude from St. Francis College in Biddeford. He also studied at the University of Southern Maine in Portland and earned his medical degree from Louisiana State University of Medicine in New Orleans. He served an internship and residency in internal medicine at Worcester Memorial Hospital in Worcester, Mass., where he received the Chief of Medicine Award for outstanding excellence in medical education and patient care. He completed a fellowship in cardiology at Maine Medical Center in Portland.

Lemieux is certified in cardiovascular disease and internal medicine by the American Board of Internal Medicine. He is a fellow of the American College of Cardiology.

Those interested in attending the program are urged to register in advance by calling 795-8448 or emailing prevention@cmhc.org

Interpreter services are available upon advance request.

01/22/2010

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CMMC and CMHVI sponsor a five-part

Central Maine Medical Center and the Central Maine Heart and Vascular Institute will sponsor a five-part "Mini-Medical School" educational series at the Topsham Medical Building beginning on February 10.

Open to the community, the series will explore a variety of topics, often providing participants with information about the latest breakthroughs and debates in medical science and how these issues might relate to their own health. All are welcome to attend and a background in science or medicine is not necessary.

The series will begin on February 10 with "Lifestyle Choices for a Healthy Heart" with Timothy R Howe, M.D., medical director of wellness and diabetes education at Parkview Adventist Medical Center in Brunswick. He will discuss how diet and lifestyle can be used to prevent long-term health problems.

An internal medicine specialist who practices in Brunswick, Howe earned his medical degree from Loma Linda University School of Medicine in Loma Linda, Calif. He is certified by the American Board of Internal Medicine.

He will make his presentation from 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. at Topsham Medical Center, 4 Horton Place, Topsham.

Other installments in the Topsham Mini-Med series include:

February 17 - "Exercise Prescription" with Elizabeth Rothe, M.D., from the Central Maine Medical Center Family Medicine Residency and Central Maine Sports Medicine, will discuss exercise as a treatment for health problems and the principles of prescribed exercise.

Feb 24 - "Diabetes: What Can I Eat?" with registered nurse Chris Irish, a diabetes educator at Central Maine Medical Center. He will discuss how nutrition and physical activity can impact the management of diabetes.

March 3 - "Acupuncture: An Integrated Alternative" with David Salko, M.D. of Topsham Family Medicine. Acupuncture is gaining popularity in the United States as an alternative treatment for pain and other conditions. This lecture will discuss some of the foundations, principles and performance of acupuncture and how it can be used to achieve balance and enhance health.

March 10 - "Why Am I Not Getting Pregnant? A Contemporary Assessment" with infertility specialist Michael T. Drouin, M.D., of the Central Maine Fertility Center. He will discuss the many causes of Infertility and explain some of the most direct and cost effective way to discover answers and get treatment.

Registration is not necessary, but anyone seeking more information is urged to call 798-6227.

All Mini-Med presentations will be presented at no charge.

Interpreter services are available upon advance request.

01/22/2010

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CMMC Woman's Hospital Association (WHA) featuring the Work of Painter Susan Roux at its Rotating Art Gallery

The Central Maine Medical Center Woman's Hospital Association (WHA) is featuring the work of painter Susan Roux at its Rotating Art Gallery in the Main Lobby at CMMC during January. Also on display are recent works by young artists participating in the Lewiston Housing Authority-sponsored Youth Enrichment Program.

New Hampshire native Susan Roux studied at the Rhode Island School of Design in Providence, R.I. She is represented by galleries in Maine, Massachusetts and Russia, and her work has been exhibited in New England, New York, Russia and France.

In the past few years, Roux has traveled several times to Europe where she met and painted with great master painters. Recently she met with five artists in Ireland. "Visiting artists' studios and painting side-by-side in a foreign country is a wonderful way to really experience a different culture. I returned so stimulated and energized, it's hard to stop painting," Roux says.

Notable in Roux's oil paintings is her skill at mixing shades in a wide range of values to create serene settings that reflect her spirit and personality. Flickering light, soft movements in nature, and a sense of being there are all part of her artistic signature.

Also on display at CMMC during January are ink drawings, watercolors, scratch board and prisma color pencils by participants in the Lewiston Youth Enrichment Program art class led by Sissi Ventrone.

The exhibit at CMMC will continue through January 30.

01/14/2010

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14th Annual CMMC Gala Planned for March 20

Central Maine Medical Center's 2010 Gala Committee is planning the medical center's 14th Annual Gala, which will benefit the Patrick Dempsey Center for Cancer Hope and Healing. This black-tie event will be held on March 20 at the Kora Shrine Temple in Lewiston. The event will be hosted by the CMMC Associates and the CMMC Woman's Hospital Association. Helping to plan the Spring Gala are: (from left, seated) Ron Peyser, Gamache and Lessard, and event chairperson Jen Pike, Bedard Medical; (standing) Cathy DiVello, CMMC Woman’s Hospital Association, Karyn Small, E.A. Buschmann, Inc., Sharon Poulin, CMMC Woman's Hospital Association, Mary Dempsey, The Patrick Dempsey Center for Cancer Hope and Healing, and Robert Bernier, Advantage Gases and Tools. Absent when the photo was taken were Christine Bosse, Bangor Savings Bank, and Celine Gauthier, Thayer Corporation. For information about sponsorship of this event or to request tickets, call the CMMC Development Office at 795-2950.

01/14/2010

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Central Maine Medical Center Joins Initiative to Improve Patient Access to Language Services


Ted Rooney, local Aligning Forces for Quality leader
LARGE VERSION
Central Maine Medical Center has joined an initiative to improve patient access to language services.

The regional leader of Aligning Forces for Quality: Language Quality Improvement Collaborative and CMMC representatives recently introduced the project at a reception held at CMMC. The initiative is funded by the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation (RWJF), a nationally known philanthropic organization with a mission to "improve the health and healthcare of all Americans."

CMMC is one of two Maine hospitals and only nine hospitals nationwide to participate in the project, which was developed to identify and test ways for hospitals to provide timely, effective language services to patients who speak or understand little or no English. The Language Quality Improvement Collaborative (LQIC) is part of an effort to lift the overall quality of health care in targeted communities, reduce racial and ethnic disparities, and provide models for reform. The nine hospitals are serving as ‘learning laboratories’ for improving care quality.

The LQIC is overseen by the Center for Health Care Quality at The George Washington University Medical Center School of Public Health and Health Services, which serves as the national program office for the Aligning Forces for Quality initiative.

Local Aligning Forces for Quality leader Ted Rooney told those at the kick-off event that the project is focusing on "building the infrastructure to support health consumer engagement" for those who do not speak English as a primary language. Projects in Maine and at other locations in the United States are geared to collecting and analyzing data that can be used for developing systems that best serve healthcare needs by improving communications. An essential component of the data collection system is standardizing patient intake processes to capture information about preferred languages.

"Local learning from the communities such as [Lewiston-Auburn] can be exported to other communities," he said. "This is what does it - not some think-tank in Washington, but what happens on the ground right here," Rooney said.

CMMC Guest Relations Coordinator Jeri Maurer said CMMC's LQIC work to date has demonstrated a culturally diverse patient population that previously wasn't fully recognized at the hospital. She listed a number of languages that patients said were their preferred language. Prior to revamping its patient intake process, such information was not compiled, and so there wasn't a clear understanding of what the hospital's language assistance efforts should anticipate. "There have been a couple languages brought to our attention that we knew nothing about. It's been a revealing process," Maurer said.

CMMC President Laird Covey said that just as any patient expects care from a trained, qualified health care professional, a patient with limited English proficiency should expect that language services be provided by professionals who are specially trained in interpreting health and medical information. When patients are unable to communicate important information to their health care providers, the result can be missed diagnoses and medical errors.

"Communication problems are a major challenge in delivering high quality care. Patients who speak English as a second language statistically have poorer outcomes and more complications," Covey explained. "Also, how can you truly assure informed consent if there are problems with communications, with language?"

"We are excited to participate in this effort to evaluate and improve the language services we provide to our patients," Covey said. "We hope to share lessons we learn with other hospitals and healthcare agencies in the community, and work together to ensure patients needing language services receive them."

For more information, visit http://www.mainequalitycounts.org or http://www.rwjf.org

12/30/2009

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Strategies for Success in the New Year

"Strategies for Success in the New Year" will be the topic of a Central Maine Medical Center Accenting Your Health presentation on January 11 and again on January 14.

Wellness instructor Marcy Covey will offer practical solutions for "sticking to your New Year’s resolution." Her presentation will address goal setting, preparing for and supporting change, relaxation breathing and forgiveness skills.

Covey is owner of Dragonfly Healing Touch, a Thai Yoga Bodywork studio in Poland.

She recently concluded a two-year yoga instructor training program through Phoenix Rising, a nationally-recognized yoga therapy and instructor training program headquartered in Bristol, Vt.

Her formal education in yoga also includes four years of training in Thai Yoga Bodywork with renowned Thai Yoga Healing Arts instructor Jonas Westring. In addition, she has studied Thai Yoga Massage with Kam Thye Chow of the Lotus Palm School of Massage in Montreal and has attained certification in Pre-Natal Thai Yoga Bodywork through the Palm School.

Covey graduated from Oberlin College in Oberlin, Ohio, and went on to create an exercise-wellness program for North Country Hospital in Newport, Vt. In the early 1990s she developed the first wellness programs at CMMC, helping to design the CMMC Wellness Center, which she managed from 1995 through 2002. She continues to serve as a wellness instructor and program facilitator at the medical center.

There is no cost for attending the presentation.

Both presentations will be offered in the Chairmen’s Rooms on the lower level of the 12 High Street Medical Office Building, adjacent to CMMC. The January 11 program will begin at 1:30 p.m. and conclude about 2:30 p.m. The January 14 presentation will commence at 7 p.m. and wrap up about 8 p.m.

Those interested in attending either of the programs are urged to register in advance by calling 795-8448 or emailing prevention@cmhc.org

Interpreter services are available upon advance request.

12/23/2009

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New Programs Beginning at CMMC Health and Wellness Center

Central Maine Medical Center's Wellness Solutions is offering the following programs beginning January 4:

Ballroom Dancing – This six-week series, led by Diane Williams, is an advanced beginner class that will add more steps to participants' dance repertoire in the foxtrot, waltz and swing. The class is intended for those who are comfortable with the basic steps of these three dances. A dance partner is required. Fridays from 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.

Bellydancing– Imari (a.k.a. Lisa Cummings) will lead this six-week series presenting bellydancing as a therapeutic, energetic and beautiful cardiovascular exercise suitable for all ages and body types. Wednesdays from 7:15 p.m. to 8:15 p.m.

Cardio Funk – This ongoing class features a combination of cardiovascular exercise mixed with some of today’s latest dance moves. Instructor is Glenn Atkins. Mondays from 6:15 p.m. to 7:15p.m., Wednesdays from 5 p.m. to 6 p.m., and Saturdays from 8:30 a.m. to 9:30 a.m.

Cardio Sculpt and Sweat – This ongoing series, lead by Ian Barclay, combines low-impact moves with weight training targeting major muscle groups while addressing hard to reach spots. The routine includes extensive floor work. Tuesdays from 5 p.m. to 6 p.m.

Fit-n-Fun – This entertaining exercise class is designed for the over-55 crowd and focuses on helping participants improve aerobic capacity, strength, flexibility, balance, and coordination. The instructor for this series is Marcy Covey. Tuesdays and Thursdays from 9:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m.

Flexible Body, Flexible Life – Bette Swett-Thibeault will lead this six-week series designed as a moderate, safe approach to improve fitness using varying exercise modes. Incorporates stretching, moderate aerobics, weights, circuit training, and relaxation exercises. Participants should wear loose clothing and exercise shoes and bring a mat if they have one. Wednesdays from 6 p.m. to 7 p.m.

Functional Fitness – Learn to increase both core and upper body strength and improve the stability of abdominal and low back muscles. Participants will discover how to prevent injury due to improper body mechanics and repetitive motion. Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays from noon to 12:30 p.m.

Happy Hearts – A class designed for people with a "cardiac event" history – including angioplasty, stents, heart attack, cardiac arrest, valve surgery, coronary artery bypass, stable angina, and transplants – who have completed a cardiac rehabilitation program and are looking for a "maintenance" program. The class includes general supervision and individual, independent cardiovascular and strength training. It also incorporates group weight training and self-safety skills. The instructor is Sue Driscoll. Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays at 8 a.m., 9 a.m., 10:30 a.m. and 1 p.m.

Hi-Lo Step Aerobics – Tina Sirois will lead this cardiovascular conditioning class, which include both on- and off-the-step work, followed by abdominal work and stretching. Tuesdays from 5:30 a.m. to 6:15 a.m.

Personal Fitness – Begins with a one-on-one evaluation and program development session with a personal health counselor, then progresses to a structured group exercise plan. Tuesdays and Thursdays at 8 a.m., 9:30 a.m. and 10:45 a.m.

Pilates – This series, led by Tina Sirois, covers core strengthening and stretching exercises with light weights, therabands and flex-a-balls. Thursdays from 4:15 p.m. to 5 p.m.

Step Aerobics – A heart-pumping, muscle-moving workout that alternates step with muscle work. Led by Sue Driscoll, this cardio workout is a head-to-toe body strengthener. Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays from 3:45 p.m. to 4:45 p.m.

Yoga – Certified yoga instructor Marcy Covey leads this series of yoga classes. Participants will learn to center and balance themselves through poses, breathing exercises, meditation, and relaxation. Tuesdays from 4:45 p.m. to 6 p.m. and from 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. and Thursdays from 5 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. Participants may elect to take either one or two classes per week.

YouthFit "Move And Learn" – An eight-week series designed for those between seven and 17 years of age who are overweight or at risk for obesity. Each class focuses on an educational module regarding nutrition, physical activity and/or self-esteem, followed by an exercise game where the child can use what they learn in a physical exercise. Tuesdays and Thursdays from 4 p.m. to 5 p.m.

Zumba – This Latin-inspired dance exercise program uses a variety of basic dance styles set to international music such as merengue, salsa, and reggaetone. Using principles of aerobic/fitness interval training and resistance training, Zumba is great for burning calories (up to 500 per class) while sculpting and toning the body. This six-week program is led by
Cynthia Nicholas. Mondays from 5 p.m. to 6 p.m. and Wednesdays from 9:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m.

All programs are offered in the CMMC Health and Wellness Center, 12 High Street Medical Office Building, Lewiston.

Fees are assessed for participation in these programs and must be paid prior to beginning the program. Class registration is on a first-come, first-served basis.

Membership in the CMMC Wellness Center is open to the public.

Call 795-2473 to register or to obtain more information. Information also available through the Events Calendar at http://www.cmmc.org

12/23/2009

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Central Maine Medical Center's Pediatric Hospitalist Service Featured In the December Issue of the The Hospitalist

Central Maine Medical Center's pediatric hospitalist service, headed by pediatrician Dan Hale, M.D., is featured in an article published in the December issue of the The Hospitalist, a publication of the Society of Hospital Medicine.

The article considers the challenges faced by pediatric hospitalists seeking to improve the care they provide to patients by developing standardized tools for meshing the in-hospital care they provide with the services delivered in outpatient settings.

Go to "All Grown Up: Pediatric HM leaders tackle clinical, educational, and patient safety issues"

12/21/2009

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CMMC Woman's Hospital Association to Feature the Work of Painter Annette Lavalle in its Rotating Art Gallery

The Central Maine Medical Center Woman’s Hospital Association (WHA) will feature the work of painter Annette Lavalle at its Rotating Art Gallery in the Main Lobby at CMMC in December.

Lavalle has some 25 years experience as a painter. She has worked in several aspects of the art market, including gallery displays, graphic design, and commercial illustration. She also offers private art lessons.

Lavalle’s work will be on display at CMMC through December 26.

12/07/2009

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CMHVI Unveils the Results of Its Making a Difference Commemorative Quilt

The Central Maine Heart and Vascular Institute recently unveiled the results of its Making A Difference Commemorative Quilt fund-raising effort.

Developed as a tool for raising funds while also recognizing those with or those who have had heart disease, the quilt project involved the sale of quilt squares to honor both those who are living with heart disease as well as those who have died from it.

Designed by Suzanne Biddle of Maine Custom Made Quilts in Auburn, the quilt features squares displaying the handwritten name of those being honored. Deborah McIntosh of Lewiston inscribed the finished quilt, which now hangs in the Charles Day Atrium at CMHVI. Proceeds from the sales of quilt squares have been used to support the Charles Day Atrium Fund.

"Negotiating a life-changing experience such as a cardiovascular disease can be likened to creating a patchwork quilt. The process of diagnosis and treatment, finding appropriate support, making lifestyle choices, and so on, is not unlike selecting fabrics and patterns for a quilt," says Cindie Rice, director of outreach, prevention, wellness and cardiac rehabilitation at CMHVI. "Putting pieces together to get the best result is a similar objective, whether managing your cardiac health or planning a quilt."

The quilt consists of 6- by 6-inch squares with different designs, fabrics, and adornments.

12/07/2009

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CMMC Woman's Hospital Association to Feature Work of Topsham Photographer

The Central Maine Medical Center Woman's Hospital Association (WHA) will feature the work of a Topsham photographer at its Rotating Art Gallery in the Main Lobby at CMMC in December.

Photographic work by Arlene P. McConnell will be displayed at CMMC through December 26 and may be purchased through the WHA Gift Shop, located adjacent to the Main Lobby. A percentage of sale proceeds benefit CMMC.

A self-taught photographer, McConnell's subjects range from landscapes and nature to animals and people.

"I am thankful for all our surroundings and the freedom that we have through the generous gesture of our men and women that are currently serving and have served. With this freedom I have a humble display of The Common Ground Fair which is held in Unity," McConnell says.

12/02/2009

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CMMC Annual Fall Golf Tournament Raises Over $90,000 for The Patrick Dempsey Center for Cancer Hope and Healing


1st Place Gross -- Androscoggin Bank: From left, Paul Anderson, Richard Casselman, Zak Sclar, and Ed Cutland.
LARGE VERSION
Central Maine Medical Center's 17th Annual Fall Golf Classic raised over $90,000 to benefit The Patrick Dempsey Center for Cancer Hope and Healing.

Fall Golf Classic winners were as follows:
1st Place Gross -- Androscoggin Bank
2nd Place Gross -- H.E. Callahan Construction
3rd Place Gross -- Northeast Bank

1st Place Net -- Lewiston Sun Journal
2nd Place Net -- Ranor, Inc.
3rd Place Net -- Hebert Construction Corp.

The Grand Putt Off was won by Bob Kalinowski of BVH Integrated Services, Inc., who walked away with $400 in winnings.

Kevin Bamrick, playing for Central Maine Imaging Center, won the grand raffle prize of a Motocaddy S1 Digital sponsored by Lee Auto Mall.

Winners of the longest drive were Shane Moffett, playing for NeoKraft Signs, Inc., and Patty Roy, playing for MorrisSwitzer Environments for Health.

Closest-to-the-Pin competition winners were Sharon Buckley, Patrons Oxford Insurance Company, and Don Flanagan, United Ambulance.

The CMMC Associates provided volunteer support for the event.

Next year's Annual Fall Golf Classic will be held on September 15, 2010.

For more information on either the CMMC Fall Golf Classic or the CMMC Associates program, call the CMMC Development Office at 795-2950.

12/01/2009

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Local Mended Hearts Group Forms

Some 30 residents of the greater Lewiston-Auburn area have gained approval of their efforts to establish a chapter of Mended Hearts Inc., a national non-profit organization made up of and serving people with heart disease and their family members and friends.

Priscilla Soucy, regional director for Mended Hearts' Northeast Division, visited the Central Maine Heart and Vascular Institute recently to convey chapter charter status to representatives of the new local organization.

"Installing the officers of Mended Hearts Chapter #358 and presenting the charter is the culmination of a year of planning, recruiting members, providing medical speakers, and visiting hundreds of patients on the cardiac floors. This new chapter will provide support and education, and hold special events in years to come for all cardiac patients. Mended Hearts is on the map in Maine," Soucy said.

Supported by a national office, Mended Hearts is comprised of 280 local chapters that serve those affected by heart disease across the United States and Canada. The organization works with patients at 460 hospitals and rehabilitation clinics and offers services to heart patients through visiting programs, support group meetings and educational forums. Mended Hearts volunteers make 227,000 hospital visits to patients and 30,000 visits to family members and caregivers annually.

The Mended Hearts network is comprised of heart patients, family members, caregivers and healthcare professionals who provide information and support to recovering patients and their families during hospital visits, by telephone, through group meetings and via the Internet. These volunteers draw upon their own personal experiences and help the patient begin to understand there can be a healthy, active life with heart disease.

Once patients are discharged from the hospital, Mended Hearts continues to offer help and information through local support group meetings where members listen, share their experiences, and talk about such matters as lifestyle changes, depression, recovery and treatment. Group meetings often serve as forums for medical professionals to answer questions.

Mended Hearts members receive the quarterly magazine HEARTBEAT that offers health information, inspirational survivor stories and chapter updates.

The Lewiston-Auburn Mended Hearts volunteers began organizing in September 2008. The members became a satellite of Mended Hearts Greater Hartford (Conn.) In February members began visiting patients at CMHVI's Single-Stay Unit after participating in a training program. In September, the group added inpatient visiting to Central Maine Medical Center's Cardiopulmonary Nursing Unit. The group has visited nearly 750 patients to date.

Ed Madden of Lisbon, the chapter's president, said he got involved in the effort "to help patients understand there can be a healthy, active life after heart disease. In my own case, I have had not one but two bypass operations – a four-way and the second was a single. That fact alone gets a wide-eyed look," he said.

The volunteers actively participated in the American Heart Association's Heart Walk this past fall raising funds for programs and continued research on heart disease.

For more information, contact Cheryl Strout R.N., Central Maine Heart and Vascular Cardiac Rehabilitation at 795-8230.

12/01/2009

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CMMC Emergency Department Holding Its Second Annual Clothing Giveaway

Central Maine Medical Center's Emergency Department will hold its second annual Gently-Worn Clothing Giveaway on December 1.

Members of CMMC's Emergency Department staff will be on hand in the hospital's main lobby at 60 High Street in Lewiston from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. to give away used clothing for both adults and children. The staff collected the clothes through a “clothing drive” it conducted in November.

The public is invited to visit CMMC and see if something collected in the clothing drive "suits" them or someone they know.

11/25/2009

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Central Maine Medical Group Announces Launch of Prevention and Screening Campaign Called


From left, James Joseph, M.D., of Central Maine Internal Medicine, Auburn resident Ron Towle, a
LARGE VERSION
The Central Maine Medical Group today announced the launch of a prevention and screening campaign called "Saving Lives Through Evidence-Based Medicine."

Designed to identify people at risk for several specific diseases, the new initiative demonstrated its potential during its pilot stage when several Central Maine Medical Group (CMMG) patients critically at risk for a major adverse health event were identified and successfully treated.

One common factor these individuals shared is that they had no apparent symptoms for the disease that threatened them. They were identified as at risk by clinicians in the group who wanted to find better ways to identify patients who were either at risk due to individual health history or individual patients who had not completed recommended health screening tests. This initiative uses a software program that scans medical databases for the single purpose of identifying people who have clinical indications suggesting they may be vulnerable to certain diseases and even sudden death.

"Being screened for an aneurysm saved my life," said Auburn resident Ron Towle. "I had no idea that I was at a high risk for a burst aorta. After I received the letter from Dr. Joseph, my primary physician, and talking with my family, I decided to contact the hospital. I was shocked when the vascular surgeon called me with the results right after my ultrasound test. My surgery went well and I feel great."

A recent study published in the New England Journal of Medicine highlights the need for this initiative. Only 52% of American patients are currently up to date on the health screening tests they need based on their age, gender, and individual health history. This translates into the potential to save thousands of lives by either preventing illnesses or diagnosing illnesses at early stages where they can be cured. Central Maine Medical Group is using the "Saving Lives Through Evidence-Based Medicine" to redesign the ways that it works as a team of providers to make certain that each of our patients undergoes the necessary screening tests identified by the current medical literature.

CMMG physicians and other clinicians are using "data mining" techniques that search medical databases using screening algorithms that consider various factors (including age, gender, risk factors such as smoking, family history, etc.) to identify patients who could benefit from diagnostic follow up.

Glenn Focht, M.D., president of the Central Maine Medical Group, says evidence-based guidelines established from national studies are being used to identify people at risk for colorectal, breast and some lung cancers. In addition to finding patients at risk for these cancers, the physicians also wanted to screen for patients at risk for sudden death due to abdominal aortic aneurysm - something physicians often refer to as "triple A". A person with an undetected triple-A carries a very high risk for sudden death.

When data mining process identifies someone at risk for an undetected health problem, the patient's healthcare provider is notified. The healthcare provider, in turn, follows ups with the patient, usually suggesting they seek diagnostic testing. Central Maine, working with its doctors and nurses, is redesigning this work to make it easier for patients and doctors to have this screening done consistently, reliably and safely. Dr. Focht states, "By sharing this work with our doctors and facilitating these tests for our patients, we are redesigning care to remove all the reasons why the national and local rates for health screening are too low. We want the people of Central and Western Maine to have the lowest possible rates of death from preventable illnesses such as breast cancer, colorectal cancer and ruptured abdominal aortic aneurysm." Patients who undergo further testing and learn they have a problem can then begin to address it with the assistance of their care provider. Confidential patient information is protected throughout this process.

During its pilot phase, the evidence-based data-mining process is credited with detecting both pre-cancers and triple-A's. Discovering and treating a triple-A, in particular, is very important, as up to 50 percent of those who suffer a burst abdominal aortic aneurysm die before they reach a hospital. In some studies nearly 80% of those who do make it to the hospital alive also die.

"We have tens of thousands of patients in our practices, so this kind of disease detection is only possible because our electronic medical record (EMR) allows us to efficiently search thousands of records. We simply couldn't do the same with paper charts," Focht explains. "The 'Saving Lives' initiative is possible because the CMMG physicians and associate professional staff are linked by a common electronic medical record that aggregates all of the medical information in an electronic database."

The Central Maine Medical Group (CMMG) is comprised of more than 325 physicians and associate professionals who provide care at some 70 practice settings located in 19 central, western and coastal Maine communities.

Information about the Central Maine Medical Group is available online at www.cmmgcare.org

For more information, contact Chuck Gill at 795-2711.

11/20/2009

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Three-Part Series on Basic Nutrition and Meal Preparation for a Healthier Lifestyle, Will be Offered at CMMC

“Healthy Eating, Healthy You”, a three-part series on basic nutrition and meal preparation for a healthier lifestyle, will be offered at Central Maine Medical Center beginning December 1.

Tricia Dunton, a registered and licensed dietitian, will lead the hour-long presentations, each featuring information about preparing low-cost meals that provide good nutrition.

Dunton’s presentation at CMMC is, in part, the result of collaboration with Western Maine Community Action to address the area’s needs for dietary education, especially regarding concerns about access to adequate nutrition and obesity.

The December 1 presentation, “An Introduction to MyPyramid”, will explore the different food groups, types of food in each group, and recommended daily serving amounts of these foods.

“Smart Shopping and Label Reading”, the December 8 program, will consider label reading, tips for making smart choices in the grocery store, eating on a budget, and meal planning techniques.

The final class, “The Savvy Chef”, will be held on December 15. This session will introduce participants to meal preparation and substitution techniques, and meal serving suggestions. It will include a cooking demonstration.

All three sessions will be presented from 1 p.m. to 2 p.m. in the first-floor Young Wing Conference Room, located near the main entrance to Central Maine Medical Center at 60 High Street in Lewiston.

There is no charge for participation.

Those interested in attending the programs are urged to register in advance by calling 795-8448 or emailing prevention@cmhc.org

Interpreter services are available upon advance request.

11/20/2009

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November's Central Maine Medical Center Accenting Your Health Presentation Focuses on Diabetes and Cardiovascular Disease

“The ABCs of Diabetes and Cardiovascular Disease” will be the topic of a Central Maine Medical Center Accenting Your Health presentation on November 9 and again on November 11.

Registered nurse Monique Hebert, a certified diabetes educator, will examine what diabetes is and how an individual can reduce their risk for developing diabetes. The presentation will also consider how diabetes can contribute to heart disease and what someone with diabetes can do to lower their risk for heart attack and stroke

Hebert is a member of the Central Maine Medical Center Diabetes Education Department.

There is no cost for attending the presentation..

Both presentations will be offered in Chairmen’s Room C on the lower level of the 12 High Street Medical Office Building, adjacent to CMMC. The November 9 program will begin at 1:30 p.m. and conclude about 2:30 p.m. The November 11 presentation will commence at 6 p.m. and wrap up about 7 p.m.

Those interested in attending either of the programs are urged to register in advance by calling 795-8448 or emailing prevention@cmhc.org.

Interpreter services are available upon advance request.

11/03/2009

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Central Maine Sleep Center Hosting Open House

The Central Maine Sleep Center will host an open house on November 5 from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m.

Visitors will be provided tours of the new facility and will have the opportunity to speak with sleep specialists who diagnose and treat sleep disorders.

The Central Maine Sleep Center employs board-certified sleep medicine specialists and sleep technologists. The center features eight sleeprooms, state-of-the-art diagnostic technology, and education and counseling sessions.

The center is located on the lower level of the 60 High Street Medical office complex in Lewiston.

11/02/2009

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“Welcome Home: The Patient-Centered Medical Home” is Topic of the Fifth Installment of a Six-part “Mini-Medical School” Educational Series

“Welcome Home: The Patient-Centered Medical Home” is the topic of the fifth installment of a six-part “Mini-Medical School” educational series sponsored by Central Maine Medical Center and the Central Maine Heart and Vascular Institute. The program will be offered on November 4.

Open to the community, the mini-med forums explore a variety of topics, often providing information about the latest breakthroughs and debates in medical science and how these issues relate to an individual’s health. A background in science or medicine is not necessary to attend the programs.

This series takes the form of an ongoing case study following a hypothetical patient facing healthcare issues commonly confronted by the elderly. In this case, the patient has been injured in a fall and as a result faces various medical challenges.

The November 4 presentation will feature Edmund Claxton, Jr., M.D., of the Central Maine Medical Center Family Medicine Residency Program.

Claxton will discuss the patient-centered medical home (PCMH), a model that facilitates integration of healthcare services for patients. This presentation will explain how the PCMH helps pull together the multiple factors associated with complicated care, including end-of-life issues.

The final Mini-Medical School presentation is:

November 11 – “Mental Health in the Golden Years” with Deborah Taylor, Ph.D., associate director of the Central Maine Medical Center Family Medicine Residency Program.

Anyone wishing to register for any of the programs, or seeking more information, is urged to call 795-8448 or email prevention@cmhc.org

The November 4 program will be offered from 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. in Conference Room H, located on the lower level of the 12 High Street medical office building, adjacent to CMMC. Due to CMMC’s construction-renovation project, 12 High Street can no longer be accessed from the hospital via the enclosed walkway. Those attending the presentation should enter the building through the 12 High Street entrance.

All Mini-Med presentations are being presented at no charge.

Interpreter services are available upon advance request.

10/30/2009

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New Sports Medicine Physician Joins Central Maine Sports Medicine

Elizabeth Rothe, M.D., a specialist in family medicine and sports medicine, has been appointed to the Central Maine Medical Center Medical Staff.

Rothe is practicing in association with Central Maine Sports Medicine, and is also serving on the Central Maine Medical Center Family Medicine Residency Program faculty. In addition, she is expanding Central Maine Sports Medicine to Parkview Hospital in Brunswick.

Prior to beginning her work at Central Maine Medical Center, Rothe completed a sports medicine fellowship at Maine Medical Center in Portland.

A graduate of the University of Pittsburgh in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, Rothe earned her medical degree from the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, also in Pittsburgh. She served a family medicine residency at Maine Medical Center.

Rothe has considerable experience as a researcher and has contributed scholarly articles to several professional publications. She has worked as an educator.

Her sports medicine experience includes service as a team physician at various high school and colleges, and consultative work with various competitive sporting events.

She is a member of several professional organizations, including the American Medical Society for Sports Medicine and American Academy of Family Physicians.

Central Maine Sports Medicine, a clinical department of Central Maine Medical Center, provides patient care from 76 High Street, Suite 200, Lewiston. The practice is also comprised of John R. Hatzenbuehler, M.D., and Peter E. Sedgwick, M.D. The office can be reached at 795-8465.

10/27/2009

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New Programs Beginning at Central Maine Medical Center's Wellness Solutions

Central Maine Medical Center's Wellness Solutions is offering the following programs beginning November 2:

Bellydancing– Imari (a.k.a. Lisa Cummings) will lead this six-week seriespresenting bellydancing as a therapeutic, energetic and beautiful cardiovascular exercise suitable for all ages and body types. Wednesdays from 7:15 p.m. to 8:15 p.m.

Cardio Funk – This ongoing class features a combination of cardiovascular exercise mixed with some of today's latest dance moves. Instructor is Glen Atkins. Mondays from 6:15 p.m. to 7:15p.m., Wednesdays from 5 p.m. to 6 p.m., and Saturdays from 8:30 a.m. to 9:30 a.m.

Cardio Sculpt and Sweat – This ongoing series, lead by Ian Barclay, combines low-impact moves with weight training targeting major muscle groups while addressing hard to reach spots. The routine includes extensive floor work. Mondays and Wednesdays from 8:15 a.m. to 9:15 a.m., Tuesdays from 5 p.m. to 6 p.m., and Thursdays from 5:15 p.m. to 6:15 p.m.

Core and More – Led by Heather Small, this ongoing series focuses on abdominal work and exercises that work the hips, thighs, chest and triceps. Monday’s from 5 a.m. to 5:45 a.m.

Fit-n-Fun – This entertaining exercise class is designed for the over-55 crowd and focuses on helping participants improve aerobic capacity, strength, flexibility, balance, and coordination. The instructor for this series is Marcy Covey. Tuesdays and Thursdays from 9:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m.

Flexible Body, Flexible Life – Bette Swett-Thibeault will lead this six-week series designed to move participants carefully toward fitness, developing dynamic strength and flexibility. The program includes light aerobics, circuit training, stretches, and floor work, as well as ball work for balance and core strength. Participants should wear loose clothing and exercise shoes and bring a mat if they have one. Wednesdays from 6 p.m. to 7 p.m.

Functional Fitness – Learn to increase both core and upper body strength and improve the stability of abdominal and low back muscles. Participants will discover how to prevent injury due to improper body mechanics and repetitive motion. Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays from noon to 12:30 p.m.

Happy Hearts – A class designed for people with a "cardiac event" history – including angioplasty, stents, heart attack, cardiac arrest, valve surgery, coronary artery bypass, stable angina, and transplants – who have completed a cardiac rehabilitation program and are looking for a "maintenance" program. The class includes general supervision and individual, independent cardiovascular and strength training. It also incorporates group weight training and self-safety skills. The instructor is Sue Driscoll. Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays at 8 a.m., 9 a.m., 10:30 a.m. and 1 p.m.

Personal Fitness – Begins with a one-on-one evaluation and program development session with a personal health counselor, then progresses to a structured group exercise plan. Tuesdays and Thursdays at 8 a.m., 9:30 a.m. and 10:45 a.m.

Pilates – This series, led by Tina Sirois, covers core strengthening and stretching exercises with light weights, therabands and flex-a-balls. Thursdays from 4:15 p.m. to 5 p.m.

Power Plus – A weight training program that incorporates simple cardio moves to elevate metabolism and burn fat. The results are lean muscles, not bulk. Incorporates every muscle group. Sessions finish with a gentle cool down with yoga stretch. Thursdays from 5:15 a.m. to 6:30 a.m.

Step Aerobics – A heart-pumping, muscle-moving and grooving workout that alternates step with muscle work using weights, tubing, etc. Led by Sue Driscoll, this cardio workout is a head-to-toe body strengthener. Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays from 3:45 p.m. to 4:45 p.m.

Yoga – Certified yoga instructor Marcy Covey leads this series of yoga classes. Participants will learn to center and balance themselves through poses, breathing exercises, meditation, and relaxation. Tuesdays and Thursdays from 4:45 p.m. to 6p.m. and Tuesdays from 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. Fees differ for once- and twice-a-week participation.

YouthFit "Move And Learn" – A 12-week series designed for those between seven and 17 years of age who are overweight or at risk for obesity. Each class focuses on an educational module regarding nutrition, physical activity and/or self-esteem, followed by an exercise game where the child can use what they learn in a physical exercise. Tuesdays from 5:15 p.m. to 6:15 p.m.

Zumba – This Latin-inspired dance exercise program uses a variety of basic dance styles set to international music such as merengue, salsa, and reggaetone. Using principles of aerobic/fitness interval training and resistance training, Zumba is great for burning calories (up to 500 per class) while sculpting and toning the body. This six-week program is led by
Cynthia Nicholas. Mondays from 5 p.m. to 6 p.m. and Wednesdays from 9:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m.

All programs are offered in the CMMC Health and Wellness Center, 12 High Street Medical Office Building, Lewiston.

Fees are assessed for participation in these programs and must be paid prior to beginning the program. Class registration is on a first-come, first-served basis.

Membership in the CMMC Wellness Center is open to the public.

Call 795-2473 to register or to obtain more information. Information also available through the Events Calendar at www.cmmc.org

10/26/2009

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Understanding and Managing Pain

"Understanding and Managing Pain" is the topic of the fourth installment of a six-part "Mini-Medical School" educational series sponsored by Central Maine Medical Center and the Central Maine Heart and Vascular Institute. The program will be offered on October 28.

Open to the community, the mini-med forums explore a variety of topics, often providing information about the latest breakthroughs and debates in medical science and how these issues relate to an individual's health. A background in science or medicine is not necessary to attend the programs.

This series takes the form of an ongoing case study following a hypothetical patient facing healthcare issues commonly confronted by the elderly. In this case, the patient has been injured in a fall and as a result faces various medical challenges.

The October 28 presentation will feature pain specialist Adam Owen, M.D., of the Central Maine Pain and Headache Center.

Whether caused by injury, illness, sickness, disease or surgery, pain is a subjective perception that must be objectively assessed and diagnosed. Owen will discuss the different types of pain, medications and alternative therapies used to relieve pain, and issues such as drug tolerance and dependence.

Upcoming Mini-Medical School presentations are:

November 4 – "Welcome Home: The Patient-Centered Medical Home" with Edmund Claxton, Jr., M.D., of the Central Maine Medical Center Family Medicine Residency Program.

Claxton will discuss the patient-centered medical home (PCMH), a model that facilitates integration of healthcare services for patients. This presentation will explain how the PCMH helps to pull together the multiple factors associated with complicated care, including end-of-life issues.

November 11 – "Mental Health in the Golden Years" with Deborah Taylor, Ph.D., associate director of the Central Maine Medical Center Family Medicine Residency Program.

When medical illness/disability are experienced by elders, it is common to have issues and concerns including mood changes, adjusting to loss of independence, changes in memory, and other issues. This presentation will focus on the process of identifying, coping with and treating these adjustment issues.

Anyone wishing to register for any of the programs, or seeking more information, is urged to call 795-8448 or email prevention@cmhc.org

The October 28 program will be offered in the Chairmen's Rooms, located on the lower level of the 12 High Street medical office building, adjacent to CMMC. Due to CMMC's construction-renovation project, 12 High Street can no longer be accessed from the hospital via the enclosed walkway. Those attending the presentation should enter the building through the 12 High Street entrance.

All Mini-Med presentations are being presented at no charge.

Interpreter services are available upon advance request.

10/22/2009

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Third Installment Of CMMC'S Six-Part

"Spinal Injuries in Seniors" is the topic of the third installment of a six-part "Mini-Medical School" educational series being sponsored by Central Maine Medical Center and the Central Maine Heart and Vascular Institute. The program will be offered on October 21.

This series takes the form of an ongoing case study following a hypothetical patient facing healthcare issues commonly confronted by the elderly. In this case, the patient has been injured in a fall and as a result faces various medical challenges.

Open to the community, the mini-med forums explore a variety of topics, often providing information about the latest breakthroughs and debates in medical science and how these issues relate to an individual’s health. A background in science or medicine is not necessary to attend the programs.

The October 21 presentation will feature orthopaedic surgeon Michael Regan, M.D., of Central Maine Orthopaedics in Auburn, and physician assistant Ryan Card of Central Maine Orthopaedics in Auburn and the Central Maine Spine Center in Auburn.

Spinal injuries can occur in people of any age, but mechanisms of spinal injuries tend to differ when comparing younger and older patient patients. Regan and Card will look at spinal injuries typical of the older patient as well as why they happen, how they are treated, and their long-term consequences.

Upcoming Mini-Medical School presentations are:

October 28 – "Understanding and Managing Pain" with pain specialist Adam Owen, M.D., of the Central Maine Pain and Headache Center.

Pain can be caused by injury, illness, sickness, disease or surgery. Only you feel your pain, so how is this subjective perception assessed and diagnosed? Owen will discuss the different types of pain, medications and alternative therapies used to relieve pain, and issues such as drug tolerance and dependence.

November 4 – "Welcome Home: The Patient-Centered Medical Home" with Edmund Claxton, Jr., M.D., of the Central Maine Medical Center Family Medicine Residency Program.

Claxton will discuss the patient-centered medical home (PCMH), a model that facilitates integration of healthcare services for patients. This presentation will explain how the PCMH helps to pull together the multiple factors associated with complicated care, including end-of-life issues.

November 11 – "Mental Health in the Golden Years" with Deborah Taylor, Ph.D., associate director of the Central Maine Medical Center Family Medicine Residency Program.

When medical illness/disability are experienced by elders, it is common to have issues and concerns including mood changes, adjusting to loss of independence, changes in memory, and other issues. This presentation will focus on the process of identifying, coping with and treating these adjustment issues.

Anyone wishing to register for any of the programs, or seeking more information, is urged to call 795-8448 or email prevention@cmhc.org

Remaining programs will be offered from 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. in the conference center at Central Maine Medical Center in Lewiston. All Mini-Med presentations are being presented at no charge.

Interpreter services are available upon advance request.

10/21/2009

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“Asthma: Enough to Take Your Breath Away” will be the topic of the October CMMC Accenting Your Health Presentation

“Asthma: Enough to Take Your Breath Away” will be the topic of a Central Maine Medical Center Accenting Your Health presentation on October 19 and again on October 29.

Patricia Smith, a registered respiratory therapist and nationally certified asthma educator at CMMC, will explain what asthma is and why it occurs. She will discuss how the disease is diagnosed, methods of treating and managing it, and what can be done to prevent it.

Free pulmonary function testing will be offered 30 minutes before and after each of Smith’s presentation.

Twenty-four million Americans suffer from asthma and Maine has the highest prevalence of this disease in the country.

There is no cost for attending the presentation.

Both presentations will be offered in the Chairmen's Rooms on the lower level of the 12 High Street Medical Office Building, adjacent to CMMC. The October 19 program will begin at 1:30 p.m. and conclude about 2:30 p.m. Pulmonary function testing will be offered from 1 p.m. to 1:30 p.m. and from 2:30 p.m. to 3 p.m. The October 29 presentation will commence at 6 p.m. and wrap up about 7 p.m. Testing will be offered from 5:30 p.m. to 6 p.m. and
from 7 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.

Those interested in attending either of the programs are urged to register in advance by calling 795-8448 or emailing prevention@cmhc.org

Interpreter services are available upon advance request.


10/13/2009

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CMMC Woman's Hospital Association Featuring two Maine Painters in their Rotating Art Gallery

The Central Maine Medical Center Woman’s Hospital Association (WHA) will feature the work of two Maine painters at its Rotating Art Gallery in the Main Lobby at CMMC in October.

Photographic work by Melanie Therrien and Paul Boucher will be displayed at CMMC and may be purchased through the WHA Gift Shop, located adjacent to the Main Lobby. A percentage of sale proceeds benefit CMMC.

Through wickedillustrations.com, her studio, Therrien began illustrating “The Cape Cod Witch Series,” a successful series of children’s books, in 2007. She is working on book three as well as a coloring book and cookbook for the series.

She currently assists in exhibits and benefits for Captive Elements Art House in Lewiston, where she is also a resident artist and art instructor.

Boucher is a native of Maine and has resided in the Lewiston area all his life. He has been painting for almost 30 years, and has studied under various artists, although he is essentially self-taught. His style combines a sense of realism with his own imagination.

His paintings can be seen in art exhibits across New England. His favorite subjects include black bears, loons, chickadees, cardinals, and other Maine birds.

The paintings will be on display until October 30.

10/12/2009

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Second Installment of CMMC'S Six-Part

“A Day in the Life of an Emergency Department” is the topic of the second installment of Central Maine Medical Center and the Central Maine Heart and Vascular Institute’s six-part “Mini-Medical School” educational series. The program will be offered on October 14.

This series takes the form of an ongoing case study following a hypothetical patient facing healthcare issues commonly confronted by the elderly. In this case, the patient has been injured in a fall and as a result faces various medical challenges.

Open to the community, the explore a variety of topics, often providing information about the latest breakthroughs and debates in medical science and how these issues might relate to their own health. A background in science or medicine is not necessary to attend the programs.

The October 14 presentation will feature Lanny Oliver, M.D., medical director of the Central Maine Medical Center Emergency Department. He will discuss the emergency care process for a senior who has sustained an injury in a fall.

A long-time member of the Central Maine Medical Center Medical Staff, Oliver holds bachelor’s and master’s degrees from College of William and Mary in Williamsburg, Va. He earned his medical degree from the Medical College of Virginia in Richmond, Va., and completed residency training in emergency medicine at the University of Florida Health Science Center in Jacksonville, Fla. He is certified by the American Board of Emergency Medicine.

Upcoming Mini-Medical School presentations are:

October 21 – “Spinal Injuries in Seniors” with orthopaedic surgeon Michael Regan, M.D., of Central Maine Orthopaedics in Auburn, and physician assistant Ryan Card of Central Maine Orthopaedics in Auburn of Central Maine Spine Center in Auburn

Spinal injuries can occur in people of any age, but mechanisms of spinal injuries tend to differ when comparing younger and older patient patients. This presentation will look at spinal injuries typical of the older patient as well as why they happen, how they are treated, and their long-term consequences.

October 28 – “Understanding and Managing Pain” with pain specialist Adam Owen, M.D., of the Central Maine Pain and Headache Center. Pain can be caused by injury, illness, sickness, disease or surgery. Only you feel your pain, so how is this subjective perception assessed and diagnosed? Owen will discuss the different types of pain, medications and alternative therapies used to relieve pain, and issues such as drug tolerance and dependence.

November 4 – “Welcome Home: The Patient-Centered Medical Home” with Edmund Claxton, Jr., M.D., of the Central Maine Medical Center Family Medicine Residency Program.

Claxton will discuss the patient-centered medical home (PCMH), a model that facilitates integration of healthcare services for patients. This presentation will explain how the PCMH helps to pull together the multiple factors associated with complicated care, including end-of-life issues.

November 11 – “Mental Health in the Golden Years” with Deborah Taylor, Ph.D., associate director of the Central Maine Medical Center Family Medicine Residency Program.

When medical illness/disability are experienced by elders, it is common to have issues and concerns including mood changes, adjusting to loss of independence, changes in memory, and other issues. This presentation will focus on the process of identifying, coping with and treating these adjustment issues.

Anyone wishing to register for any of the programs, or seeking more information, is urged to call 795-8448 or email prevention@cmhc.org

All programs will be offered from 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. in Pettingill Hall, Room G65, at Bates College in Lewiston. All Mini-Med presentations are being presented at no charge.

Interpreter services are available upon advance request.

10/08/2009

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CONSTRUCTION ALERT

10/05/2009

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Six-Part

Central Maine Medical Center and the Central Maine Heart and Vascular Institute will sponsor a six-part "Mini-Medical School" educational series beginning in October.

This series will take the form of an ongoing case study following a hypothetical patient facing healthcare issues commonly confronted by the elderly. In this case, the patient has been injured in a fall and as a result faces various medical challenges.

Open to the community, the series will explore a variety of topics, often providing information about the latest breakthroughs and debates in medical science and how these issues might relate to their own health. A background in science or medicine is not necessary to attend the programs.

The series will begin on October 7 with "Slow Medicine" featuring Dennis McCullough, M.D., author of "My Mother, Your Mother: Embracing 'Slow Medicine,' The Compassionate Approach to Caring for Your Aging Loved Ones".

McCullough's presentation will focus on the fastest growing group of seniors, those over age 80. This demographic group has more interaction with the medical system and uses more resources per capita than any other age group, creating a spiraling demand for healthcare services.

Diseases that once ended lives relatively quickly have become chronic illness, debilitation, and extended years of decline. This presentation focuses on the fastest growing group of elders, those over age 80, who have the highest likelihood of benefiting from care that is more measured and reflective, balancing thoughtfully the separate, multiple, and complex
issues of late-life.

He will make his presentation from 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. at the Bates College Muskie Archives, 70 Campus Avenue in Lewiston.

McCullough appears through the auspices of Androscoggin Home Care & Hospice. Following his presentation, McCullough will sign copies of his book, which will be available for purchase. The Lewiston Public Library is coordinating the book signing.

Other installments in the Mini-Med series include:

October 14 – "A Day in the Life of an Emergency Department" with Lanny Oliver, M.D., medical director of the Central Maine Medical Center Emergency Department.

This case study presentation will examine the care process for a senior who has sustained an injury in a fall.

October 21 – "Spinal Injuries in Seniors" with orthopaedic surgeon Michael Regan, M.D., of Central Maine Orthopaedics in Auburn, and physician assistant Ryan Card of Central Maine Spine Center in Auburn.

Spinal injuries can occur in people of any age, but mechanisms of spinal injuries tend to differ when comparing younger and older patient patients. This presentation will look at spinal injuries typical of the older patient as well as why they happen, how they are treated, and their long-term consequences.

October 28 – "Understanding and Managing Pain" with pain specialist Adam Owen, M.D., of the Central Maine Pain and Headache Center. Pain can be caused by injury, illness, sickness, disease or surgery. Only you feel your pain, so how is this subjective perception assessed and diagnosed? Owen will discuss the different types of pain, medications and alternative therapies used to relieve pain, and issues such as drug tolerance and dependence.

November 4 – "Welcome Home: The Patient-Centered Medical Home" with Edmund Claxton, Jr., M.D., of the Central Maine Medical Center Family Medicine Residency Program.

Claxton will discuss the patient-centered medical home (PCMH), a model that facilitates integration of healthcare services for patients. This presentation will explain how the PCMH helps to pull together the multiple factors associated with complicated care, including end-of-life issues.

November 11 – "Mental Health in the Golden Years" with Deborah Taylor, Ph.D., associate director of the Central Maine Medical Center Family Medicine Residency Program.

When medical illness/disability are experienced by elders, it is common to have issues and concerns including mood changes, adjusting to loss of independence, changes in memory, and other issues. This presentation will focus on the process of identifying, coping with and treating these adjustment issues.

Anyone wishing to register for any of the programs, or seeking more information, is urged to call 795-8448 or email prevention@cmhc.org

All programs except the October 7 presentation will be offered from 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. in Pettingill Hall, Room G65, at Bates College in Lewiston. All Mini-Med presentations are being presented at no charge.

Interpreter services are available upon advance request.

09/30/2009

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Heart Walk - Sunday, September 27

Inspire change.

It's no coincidence that the Heart Walk, the American
Heart Association's signature fundraiser, puts a lot of feet on the street.

The fact is, physical activity, along with other healthy lifestyle choices, contributes significantly to good heart health.

A recent study of some 600,000 Medicare patients with coronary conditions
and/or angioplasty or cardiac bypass surgery showed that cardiac
rehabilitation patients enjoyed longer lives than those who did not join
such a program. Unfortunately, the same study confirmed that more than a
third of those eligible for cardiac rehabilitation were not referred for
this life-saving therapy.

Just as it is a long-time supporter of the AHA's Heart Walk, the Central
Maine Medical Family, including the Central Maine Heart and Vascular
Institute (CMHVI), has long advised that cardiac rehabilitation is essential
to optimum recovery from a heart attack or other 'cardiac event.' A
heart-healthy lifestyle, including physical exercise, may help you not only
live longer, it may help you live happier.

Join the Central Maine Medical Family in inspiring change for healthier
living by walking in the Heart Walk on Sunday, September 27 - World Heart
Day.

For more information about the benefits of cardiac rehabilitation, call
CMHVI's Cardiac Rehabilitation service at 795-8225, or visit
www.americanheart.org

The Central Maine Medical Family, a major sponsor of the Heart Walk -
and an advocate of quality cardiac rehabilitation.

09/25/2009

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New Cardiothoracic Surgeon at CMHVI

Steven Levin, M.D., a cardiothoracic and endovascular surgeon, has been appointed to the Central Maine Medical Center Medical Staff. He is practicing in association with Central Maine Cardiovascular Surgery at 60 High Street in Lewiston.

Prior to beginning his work at the Central Maine Heart and Vascular Institute, a clinical division of Central Maine Medical Center, Levin worked as director of cardiovascular and thoracic surgery in West Monroe, La.

A graduate of Boston University in Boston, Levin earned his medical degree at Hahnemann University School of Medicine in Philadelphia. He completed a cardiothoracic surgery residency at the University of Massachusetts Medical Center in Worcester, Mass. His professional training also includes a general surgical residency at the University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey/Robert Wood Johnson Medical School in Camden, N.J. He served as senior resident in pediatric cardiac surgery at Boston Children’s Hospital in Boston, and recently completed surgical training with James B. Williams, M.D., a nationally-recognized endovascular surgeon.

He is a member of several professional organizations, including: Society of Thoracic Surgeons, Alpha Omega Alpha Honor Medical Society, American Medical Association, International Society Endovascular Surgery, and International Society Minimally Invasive Cardiothoracic Surgery. He is a fellow of the American College of Chest Physicians and the American College of Surgeons.

He has coauthored articles published in various scholarly publications, including American Heart Journal, Journal of Investigative Surgery, Journal of Vascular Surgery, and Critical Care Medicine. He has made numerous presentations on topics related to chest and vascular surgery.

Levin is certified by the American Board of Surgery and the American Board of Thoracic Surgery. He lives in Auburn with his wife and children.

Central Maine Cardiovascular Surgery is a department of the Central Maine Heart and Vascular Institute with offices at 60 High Street, Lewiston. The practice is also comprised of cardiothoracic surgeon Carmine Frumiento, M.D., and vascular surgeons Allan M. Ingraham, M.D., and Pamela R. Rietschel, M.D. The practice can be reached at 795-8260.

09/21/2009

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Dempsey Challenge Registration Closed; Plenty of Fun in Store for Spectators

Eight days after announcing a cap of 3,500 participants, registration has closed for The Dempsey Challenge. The announcement spurred a registration surge of nearly 1,100 entries in just over one week. The October 4 event will take place at Simard-Payne Police Memorial Park in Lewiston and was created by actor and Maine native Patrick Dempsey as a way to raise cancer awareness and promote exercise as an important part of daily life.

The Challenge features four cycling routes of 10, 25, 50 and 100 miles and a 5K (3.1 mile) run/walk and will serve as the primary fundraiser for The Patrick Dempsey Center for Cancer Hope & Healing at Central Maine Medical Center, which provides free support, education and wellness services to cancer patients, survivors and caregivers. Dempsey is scheduled to take part in the 50-mile ride with recently crowned national champion cyclists George Hincapie and David Zabriskie.

"We are just amazed at the outpouring of support we have received for this event," said Event Manager Wendy Tardif. "We want people to know that although registration is closed, there are still plenty of opportunities to be involved."

Those still looking to be part of the in inaugural event are encouraged to volunteer or participate as a Virtual Rider. Volunteer registration, position descriptions and handbook are available on the Challenge Web site: http://www.dempseychallenge.org. Virtual Riders do not participate in a cycling event or 5K, but are welcome to raise funds as an individual or team member. There is no charge to register as a Virtual Rider.

The Challenge will feature a daylong Festival in the Park with a KidZone, health and wellness expo, live entertainment, health screenings, art workshop and more. Admission is free and the Festival will be open from 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. Cancer survivors are encouraged to take part in the Amgen Breakaway from Cancer Survivor Walk at 3:45 p.m.

Entertainment acts include Two: High Energy Juggling, L-A Harley Band, Maine Red Claws Dance Team, Zack Pomerleau Blues Band, Maine Event Cheering, Belly Dancing for Breast Cancer, Pelletier’s Karate demonstration, Tinpanic Steel Band, comedian Mike Miclon and more.

The KidZone will keep the youngsters busy with a treasure hunt and craft area along with an inflatable obstacle course and Hummer vehicle provided by the Maine National Guard, bounce houses from Funtimes Kids Entertainment, Home Depot building workshop, Nintendo Wii games courtesy of Best Buy, face painting from St. Dom's High School and the Maine Red Claws will supply a basketball hoop and visit from their mascot, Crusher. A Kids' Fun Run will take place at 10:30 a.m.

For more information including Kids' Fun Run registration forms, route maps, accommodations and fundraising tips please visit http://www.dempseychallenge.org.

More information on The Patrick Dempsey Center for Cancer Hope & Healing can be found at http://www.dempseycenter.org.

09/18/2009

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Dempsey Center Launches New Web Site

The Patrick Dempsey Center for Cancer Hope & Healing at Central Maine Medical Center has launched a newly redesigned Web site - http://www.dempseycenter.org - aimed at providing visitors with interactive features and up-to-date information.

Interactive features include a blog where visitors are encouraged to share their comments and feelings on a variety of topics. A video library is located on the home page along with a cancer video atlas, which provides over 50 videos on cancer related topics categorized by cancer type, diagnostic test, side effect and treatment. There are forms available for volunteer sign-up and "Profiles of Courage, Caring and Commitment" nomination.

Visitors are also encouraged to register for the Center’s new e-Newsletter which will provide weekly updates on Dempsey Center news and offerings via e-mail.

Detailed information on the Center’s support, education and wellness services along with staff and volunteer bios and various donation opportunities, financial and non-financial, are also available.

Founded in March of 2008 by actor and Maine native, Patrick Dempsey, The Patrick Dempsey Center for Cancer Hope & Healing provides free support, education and wellness services to cancer patients, survivors and caregivers.

The Dempsey Center strives to embrace the whole person, including body, mind and spirit in a respectful, inclusive and healing environment. In its first year of operation, the Center had over 6,000 direct patient contacts and served over 2,000 on its toll free Cancer Assistance Line (1-877-336-7287). All of the Dempsey Center's services are provided free of charge and tax-deductible contributions are welcome.

09/17/2009

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CMMC is one of two Maine hospitals to get language service grant

Quality Counts today announced that Central Maine Medical Center and Mercy Hospital have been selected by the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation (RWJF) to participate in the Aligning Forces for Quality: Language Quality Improvement Collaborative (Language QI Collaborative). The Collaborative will identify and test ways for hospitals to provide timely, effective language services to patients who speak or understand little or no English.

The Language QI Collaborative is part of Aligning Forces for Quality (AF4Q), the Foundation's signature program to lift the overall quality of health care in targeted communities, as well as reduce racial and ethnic disparities, and provide models for real reform. Maine was selected by RWJF as one of 15 communities nationwide to serve as 'learning laboratories' for improving the quality of care being delivered in a given region. Quality Counts coordinates local efforts for the program.

"In every region involved in the Aligning Forces for Quality initiative, including Maine, broad-based teams of people who get, give and pay for care are working together to improve health care quality," said Lisa Letourneau, M.D., executive director of Quality Counts. "By aligning people from across the community who might not typically work together, we are helping to achieve a community-wide transformation of health care."

Just as any patient expects care from a trained, qualified health care professional, a patient with limited English proficiency should expect that language services be provided by professionals who are specially trained in interpreting health and medical information. When patients are unable to communicate important information to their health care providers, the result can be missed diagnoses and medical errors.

"We are excited to participate in this effort to evaluate and improve the language services we provide to our patients," said Laird Covey, president, Central Maine Medical Center. "We hope to share lessons we learn with other hospitals and health care agencies in the community, and work together to ensure patients needing language services receive them."

"Our goal is to break down any communications barriers to help ensure that all of our patients receive the best care possible," said Eileen Skinner, CEO of Mercy Hospital. "This program will allow our staff to work with other hospitals across the nation and identify the best ways to improve care for our patients who speak a primary language other than English."

Led by RWJF, the Language QI Collaborative will be overseen by the Center for Health Care Quality at The George Washington University Medical Center School of Public Health and Health Services, which serves as the national program office for the Aligning Forces for Quality initiative.

For more information, visit www.mainequalitycounts.org or www.rwjf.org.

# # #


The Robert Wood Johnson Foundation focuses on the pressing health and health care issues facing our country. As the nation's largest philanthropy devoted exclusively to improving the health and health care of all Americans, the Foundation works with a diverse group of organizations and individuals to identify solutions and achieve comprehensive, meaningful and timely change. For more than 35 years the Foundation has brought experience, commitment, and a rigorous, balanced approach to the problems that affect the health and health care of those it serves. When it comes to helping Americans lead healthier lives and get the care they need, the Foundation expects to make a difference in your lifetime. For more information, visit www.rwjf.org.

Quality Counts is committed to working together across organizations and across communities to improve health care systems and outcomes with the people of Maine. Quality Counts will coordinate existing but disparate efforts across the state that support local, patient centered, and coordinated systems of care AND the resources that support them. Its goals are to improve health status, promote consistent delivery of high quality care, improve access to health care, and contain health care costs.

09/17/2009

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Cynthia Rice
LARGE VERSION
"Cholesterol: The Good, the Bad and the Ugly" will be the topic of a Central Maine Medical Center Accenting Your Health presentation on September 21 and again on September 23.

Cynthia Rice, CMMC's director of health and wellness and cardiac rehabilitation, will discuss cholesterol and how to control it.

Her presentation will explore the "good and bad" aspects of cholesterol and what screening numbers mean. She will identify steps someone can take to improve his or her cholesterol levels.

Participants will have the opportunity to complete a brief health risk assessment that will reveal aspects of their health that they can control. For those found to be at high risk, blood cholesterol screening will be available half an hour before and after the presentation.

There is no cost for attending the presentation, but a small fee will be assessed for the cholesterol screening.

Both presentations will be offered in Chairmen's Room C on the lower level of the 12 High Street Medical Office Building, adjacent to CMMC. The September 21 program will begin at 1:30 p.m. and conclude about 2:30 p.m. Screening services will be offered from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. The September 23 presentation will commence at 6 p.m. and wrap up about 7 p.m. Screening services will be offered from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.

Those interested in attending either of the programs are urged to register in advance by calling 795-8448 or emailing prevention@cmhc.org

Interpreter services are available upon advance request.

09/09/2009

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New Programs Beginning at CMMC's Wellness Solutions


Sue Driscoll leads an aerobic class at the CMMC Wellness Center.
LARGE VERSION
Central Maine Medical Center’s Wellness Solutions is offering the following programs beginning on September 14:

Ballroom Dancing – This five-week series, led by Diane Williams, is a beginner class for learning the basic steps of the "tangy" tango and "sultry" salsa, two dances gaining in popularity. Prepare for those special occasions and social dances. Come with a partner for a fun night out. Fridays from 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.

Beginner Bellydancing – Class instructor Imari (Lisa Cummings) has more than 17 years experience teaching this unique cardiovascular exercise. This six-week series is suitable for all ages and body types. Wednesdays from 7:15 p.m. to 8:15 p.m.

Bellydancing For Youths – Imari will introduce the basics of this art form to the younger set. This six-week series will focus on building basic knowledge of bellydancing movements and use of props (veils, zills, feather fans). Suitable for ages 5 to teens.. Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m.

Core Strengthening – Core strengthening not only strengthens back muscles, it tightens and flattens abdominal muscles and slims the hips and thighs. Exercises are performed on a mat. Balls and props are provided. Exercises for beginners, intermediates and advanced participants will be presented. Tuesdays and Thursdays from 8:15 a.m. to 9:15 a.m.

Fit-n-Fun – This entertaining exercise class is designed for the over-55 crowd and focuses on helping participants improve aerobic capacity, strength, flexibility, balance, and coordination. Tuesdays and Thursdays from 9:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m.

Flexible Body, Flexible Life – Bette Swett-Thibeault will lead this six-week series designed to move participants carefully toward fitness, developing dynamic strength and flexibility. The program includes light aerobics, circuit training, stretches, and floor work, as well as ball work for balance and core strength. Participants should wear loose clothing and exercise shoes and bring a mat if they have one. Wednesdays from 5:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m.

Functional Fitness – Learn to increase both core and upper body strength and improve the stability of abdominal and low back muscles. Participants will discover how to prevent injury due to improper body mechanics and repetitive motion. Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays from noon to 12:30 p.m.

Happy Hearts – A class designed for people with a "cardiac event" history – including angioplasty, stents, heart attack, cardiac arrest, valve surgery, coronary artery bypass, stable angina, and transplants – who have completed a cardiac rehabilitation program and are looking for a "maintenance" program. The class includes general supervision and individual, independent cardiovascular and strength training. It also incorporates group weight training and self-safety skills. Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays at 8 a.m., 9 a.m., 10:30 a.m. and 1 p.m.

Personal Fitness – Begins with a one-on-one evaluation and program development session with a personal health counselor, then progresses to a structured group exercise plan. Tuesdays and Thursdays from 8 a.m., 9:30 a.m., and 10:45 a.m..

Step Aerobics – A heart-pumping, muscle-moving and grooving workout that alternates step with muscle work using weights, tubing, etc. Led by Sue Driscoll, this cardio workout is a head-to-toe body strengthener. Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays from 3:45 p.m. to 4:45 p.m.

T’ai Chi Chuan – Betsey Foster leads this six-week series focusing on the ancient Chinese movement art that uses a sequence of precise movements, meditation, and synchronized breathing to improve health and well-being. T'ai Chi movement can improve stamina, muscle tone, agility, flexibility, and cardiovascular function. Tuesdays from 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.

Yoga – Certified yoga instructor Marcy Covey leads this series of yoga classes. Participants will learn to center and balance themselves through poses, breathing exercises, meditation, and relaxation. Tuesdays from 5 p.m. to 6:15 p.m. and 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. and Thursdays from 5 p.m. to 6:15 p.m. Fees differ for once- and twice-a-week participation.

YouthFit "Move And Learn" – A 12-week series designed for those between seven and 17 years of age who are overweight youth or at risk for obesity. Each class focuses on an educational module regarding nutrition, physical activity and/or self-esteem, followed by an exercise game where the child can use what they learn in a physical exercise. Call Jodi at 795-2473 for more details. Tuesday from 5:15 p.m. to 6:15 p.m.

Zumba – This Latin-inspired dance exercise program uses a variety of basic dance styles set to international music such as merengue, salsa, and reggaetone. Using principles of aerobic/fitness interval training and resistance training, Zumba is great for burning calories (up to 500 per class) while sculpting and toning the body. This six-week program is led by
Cynthia Nicholas. Mondays from 5 p.m. to 6 p.m. and Wednesdays from 9:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m.

All programs are offered in the CMMC Health and Wellness Center, 12 High Street Medical Office Building, Lewiston.

Fees are assessed for participation in these programs and must be paid prior to beginning the program. Class registration is on a first-come, first-served basis.

Membership in the CMMC Wellness Center is open to the public.

Call 795-2473 to register or to obtain more information. Information also available through the Events Calendar at www.cmmc.org

09/03/2009

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Multipart yoga series begining at the Central Maine Medical Center Wellness Center

Certified yoga instructor Marcy Covey will lead a multipart yoga series at the Central Maine Medical Center Wellness Center beginning September 15.

“The series will focus on the connection between the physical and emotional selves,” Covey says. “Participants will be encouraged to slow down, listen to their inner voices, and reconnect with themselves. I focus on directing people through a safe yoga practice that accommodates physical differences in the combining of breathing and postures.”

The classes will be offered on Tuesdays from 5 p.m. to 6:15 p.m. and 6:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., and on Thursdays from 5 p.m. to 6:15 p.m.

Covey is owner of Dragonfly Healing Touch, a Thai Yoga Bodywork studio in Poland.

She recently concluded a two-year yoga instructor training program through Phoenix Rising, a nationally-recognized yoga therapy and instructor training program headquartered in Bristol, Vt.

Her formal education in yoga also includes four years of training in Thai Yoga Bodywork with renowned Thai Yoga Healing Arts instructor Jonas Westring. In addition, she has studied Thai Yoga Massage with Kam Thye Chow of the Lotus Palm School of Massage in Montreal and has attained certification in Pre-Natal Thai Yoga Bodywork through the Palm School.

A Vermont native, Covey grew up with dancing and singing and developed a deep appreciation for the performing arts. She graduated from Oberlin College in Oberlin, Ohio, and went on to create an exercise-wellness program for North Country Hospital in Newport, Vt. In the early 1990s she developed the first wellness programs at Central Maine Medical Center, helping to design the CMMC Wellness Center, which she managed from 1995 through 2002. She continues to serve as a wellness instructor at the hospital-based facility, where she teaches yoga classes, leads Fit-N-Fun exercise classes for seniors, and assists with the Patrick Dempsey Center for Cancer Hope and Healing's Wellness for Life program for cancer patients and survivors by introducing them to yoga. Covey leads the Personal Toolkit Series of programs twice a year, also through the Dempsey Center.

The yoga classes will be offered in the CMMC Health and Wellness Center, 12 High Street Medical Office Building, Lewiston.

Fees are assessed for participation in these programs and must be paid prior to beginning the program. Class registration is on a first-come, first-served basis.

Call 795-2473 to register or to obtain more information. Information also available through the Events Calendar at www.cmmc.org

09/01/2009

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Family Physician Joins Topsham Family Medicine

David L. Salko, M.D., a family medicine physician, has joined has joined Topsham Family Medicine.

Prior to joining the Topsham-based primary care practice, Salko was a member of the physician staff at Central Maine Family Practice in Lewiston. Topsham Family Medicine and Central Maine Family Practice are clinical departments of the Central Maine Medical Center.

Before he began his work in Maine, Salko practiced family medicine in Carbondale, Pa., where he was affiliated with Marian Community Hospital and Osprey Ridge Healthcare and Rehabilitation Center, and was a member of Whites Crossing Medical Group. He also belonged to the medical staffs at Wayne Memorial Hospital in Honesdale, Pa., and Mid-Valley Hospital in
Peckville, Pa.

He is a Phi Beta Kappa/Magnum Cum Laude graduate of Franklin and Marshall College in Lancaster, Pa., where he was elected to Alpha Epsilon Delta, a national pre-medical honor society. He was recognized by Franklin and Marshall College with the Bernard L. Albert Memorial Award for "showing the promise of becoming a humane physician."

Salko earned his medical degree at Jefferson Medical College in Philadelphia, where he was presented with the Arthur Krieger Memorial Prize in Family Medicine. He completed residency training at Maine Medical Center Family Medicine Residency in Portland. After completing residency training he earned certification in medical acupuncture.

He is certified by the American Board of Family Medicine, and is an active member of the American Academy of Medical Acupuncture.

Salko, his wife, Jennifer, their daughters Aniella and Julianne, and son James, reside in Brunswick.

Also comprising the Topsham Family Medicine physician staff are Cynthia J. Dechenes, M.D., Shannon Kenney, D.O., and nurse practitioner Nancy Porr.

The practice is located at 4 Horton Place and can be reached at 798-6200.

09/01/2009

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Yoga Instructor Certified

Marcy Covey, owner of Dragonfly Healing Touch, a Thai Yoga Bodywork studio in Poland, has completed a yoga teacher training certification process.

Covey recently concluded a two-year yoga instructor training program through Phoenix Rising, a nationally-recognized yoga therapy and instructor training program headquartered in Bristol, Vt.

"The Phoenix Rising approach to yoga is based on the premise that each class participant should have their own, personal experience in yoga. The classes are not about the teacher; they are about the personal understanding of the body, breath, emotions and thoughts acquired during each of our lives. Feeling yoga in the body and processing the way we receive those feelings
can be transformative," said Covey. "I can teach classes that are highly structured, or classes that are very loosely structured and allow for a lot of personal processing. There's much to process in all we learn as we move through our lives."

Covey’s formal education in yoga also includes four years of training in Thai Yoga Bodywork with renowned Thai Yoga Healing Arts instructor Jonas Westring. In addition, she has studied Thai Yoga Massage with Kam Thye Chow of the Lotus Palm School of Massage in Montreal and has attained certification in Pre-Natal Thai Yoga Bodywork through the Palm School.

A Vermont native, Covey grew up with dancing and singing and developed a deep appreciation for the performing arts. She graduated from Oberlin College in Oberlin, Ohio, and went on to create an exercise-wellness program for North Country Hospital in Newport, Vt. In the early 1990s she developed the first wellness programs at Central Maine Medical Center, helping to
design the CMMC Wellness Center, which she managed from 1995 through 2002. She continues to serve as a wellness instructor at the hospital-based facility, where she teaches yoga classes, leads Fit n’ Fun exercise classes for seniors, and assists with the Patrick Dempsey Center for Cancer Hope and Healing's Wellness for Life program for cancer patients and survivors by
introducing them to yoga. Covey leads the Personal Toolkit Series of programs twice a year, also through the Dempsey Center.

Anyone seeking more information about Phoenix Rising yoga therapy is urged to call Covey at 998-3577 or at CMMC's Wellness Center at 795-2473.

08/25/2009

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CMMC Woman's Hospital Association Featuring two Maine Photographers in their Rotating Art Gallery

The Central Maine Medical Center Woman�s Hospital Association (WHA) will feature the work of two Maine photographers at its Rotating Art Gallery in the Main Lobby at CMMC.

Photographic work by Daniel J. Marquis and Jim Walker will be displayed at CMMC and may be purchased through the WHA Gift Shop, located adjacent to the Main Lobby. A percentage of sale proceeds benefit CMMC.

Both Marquis and Walker are regular exhibitors in various Maine-based photographic shows, including juried exhibitions sponsored by L/A Arts and the Maine Photography Show. Both have had their work published.

The photos will be on display from August 28 through September 25.

08/25/2009

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CMMC School of Nuclear Medicine Technology graduates four nuclear medicine technologists

The Central Maine Medical Center School of Nuclear Medicine Technology recently graduated four nuclear medicine technologists.

At its 12th commencement exercises, the Central Maine Medical Center School of Nuclear Medicine Technology graduated: Terry Chadwick of Bowdoin; Jennifer Hildreth of Auburn; Kristy Marstaller of Durham; and Jennifer Wood of Sabattus.

The nuclear medicine graduates are eligible to take the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists certification examination or the Nuclear Medicine Technology Certification Board examination in nuclear medicine technology.

Terry Chadwick was presented the School of Nuclear Medicine Technology’s Award for Outstanding Scholastic Achievement for having the highest academic grade-point average. Chadwick was also presented with the School of Nuclear Medicine Technology Award for Clinical Excellence as she had the highest clinical grade-point average. The awards are sponsored by X-Ray Professional Association, a Lewiston-based physician practice.

The CMMC School of Nuclear Medicine Technology, the only program of its kind in Maine and New Hampshire, serves an important role in providing educated imaging professionals to fill a growing number of diagnostic and therapeutic positions throughout the nation. Since its creation, the school has graduated 36 students.

08/24/2009

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13 Graduate from the Clark F. Miller School of Radiologic Technology at CMMC

The Clark F. Miller School of Radiologic Technology at Central Maine Medical Center recently graduated 13 radiologic technology students.

At its 65th commencement exercises, the School of Radiologic Technology graduated students who have completed the school's accredited 23-month course that emphasizes classroom and clinical training.

Graduating from the School of Radiologic Technology were the following: Maureen Cain of Auburn; Laurie Castonguay of Livermore; Jennifer Dixon of East Andover; Jacob Dumais of Monmouth; Linda Hannibal of Fayette; Alison Ives of Bryant Pond; Robert Labbe of Greene; Christina Moore of Topsham; Lynn Pickett of Sabattus; Ronni Robinson of Benedicta; Samantha Smart of Greenbush; Erin Sobodacha of Lewiston; and Aaron Wiggin of Auburn.

The radiologic technology graduates are eligible to take the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) examination in radiography. Students passing the exam will become nationally certified radiologic technologists. The 13 students also completed Central Maine Community College’s requirements for associate of applied science degrees, which they were awarded in May.

Given special recognition at the ceremony was Laurie Castonguay, who was presented with the Clark F. Miller Award for Outstanding Scholastic Achievement. The award goes to the student having the highest overall grade-point average (GPA).

Lynn Pickett was awarded the Clark F. Miller Award for Clinical Excellence that is given to the student with the highest clinical scores.

The Miller awards are named for the founder of the state’s first radiologic technology school, which was established at CMMC in 1949.

Erin Sobodacha was presented the Central Maine Medical Center Student Leadership Award, which is given to the student who demonstrates exceptional leadership abilities in the classroom, in clinical settings and with underclassmen. The winner of this award is determined by a vote of fellow students and the school's faculty.

Jacob Dumais was awarded The Central Maine Medical Center Award of Excellence, which is presented to the student who has contributed the most to the Radiology and Medical Imaging Department during his or her education at CMMC. Each member of the CMMC Radiology and Medical Imaging Department is eligible to vote for the person they feel should receive the Award of Excellence. The student selected to receive the award is the individual who others feel has displayed the greatest dedication to the department and to the profession of radiologic technology.

Promoted to seniors during the ceremony were: Christopher Bailey of Augusta; Alyson Banks of Lewiston; April Benner of Bowdoin; Kristen Blais of Rumford; Candice Carpentier of Lewiston; Kayla Collet of Lewiston; Melissa Harvey of Dixfield; Kayla Howard of Salem; Shawna Nowinski of Gray; Sarah Pratt of Lewiston; Katelyn Thurston of Fryeburg; and Danielle White of Gardiner.

The CMMC School of Radiologic Technology, founded as Maine's first radiologic technology program, has graduated 377 students since its establishment in 1949.

The CMMC School of Radiologic Technology serves an important role in providing educated imaging professionals to fill a growing number of diagnostic and therapeutic positions throughout the nation.

Individuals who would like more information on the CMMC School of Radiologic Technology may call the school at 795-2840.

08/24/2009

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35 Area Youth Participate in CMMC's Summer Junior Volunteer Program

Some 35 area youth, ranging from 13 to 16 years of age, have participated in Central Maine Medical Center's Summer Junior Volunteer Program. Students volunteer in a variety of capacities at CMMC, performing clerical and computer-related functions, running errands, providing nursing unit assistance and serving reception duties. The program is open to all local students. Applications are accepted beginning in from March through mid-May every year. Contact Volunteer Services at 795-2470 for more information. Serving as summer volunteers at CMMC are the following: Emma Bilodeau of Auburn, Stephanie Janke of Canton, JoAnna Densmore of New Gloucester, Emily Chase of Turner, Victoria Cristina of Auburn, Meaghan McDonough of Auburn, Kylie Morris of Turner, Samantha Augello of Turner, Jessica Faunce of Turner, Lindsey Crutchfield of Carthage, Nellie Hetherington of Harpswell, Tayla O'Brien of Lewiston, Ben Dostie of Greene, Robert Link of Auburn, Mayasir Mini of Lewiston, Seth Trusty-Belisle of Naples, Dylan Blanchard of Auburn, Jeff Alan Hedrick of Hartford, Billy Soper of Lewiston, Stephanie Costello of Lewiston, Courtney Costello of Lewiston, Randi Higgins of Auburn, Alex Mills of Lewiston, Christopher Schenk of Auburn, Kyle Bernier of Greene, Brody Brown of Leeds, Sarah Divello of Lewiston, Ian Durgin of Turner, Katherine Harmon of Auburn, Alison Lewandowski of Lewiston, Shawn McKeown of Lewiston, Darby Rose of Leeds, Bruce Soper of Lewiston, Erika Thomas of Lewiston, and Melissa Ulin of Auburn.

08/20/2009

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Family Physician Joins CMMC Lisbon Family Practice

Denise M. Cogle, D.O., a family physician, has joined Lisbon Family Practice.

Prior to beginning her practice in Lisbon, Cogle was a member of the faculty at the Central Maine Medical Center Family Medicine Residency Program in Lewiston.

A graduate of the University of Southern Maine in Portland, Cogle earned her Doctor of Osteopathy degree from the University of New England College of Osteopathic Medicine in Biddeford. She completed residency training at the Central Maine Medical Center Family Medicine Residency Program in Lewiston.

As a faculty member at the CMMC Family Medicine Residency Program, she maintained a comprehensive practice that included both outpatients in an office setting and inpatients at CMMC while also working as a teacher with resident physicians.

Cogle is a member of several professional organizations, including the American Osteopathic Association, Maine Osteopathic Association, American College of Osteopathic Family Physicians, American Society of Addition Medicine, and American Academy of Family Practice Physicians.

She is certified by the American Board of Family Medicine and the American Osteopathic Board of Family Practice.

Cogle lives in Auburn with her husband, Larry, and her daughter, Sadie. Lisbon Family Practices, located at 2 Bisbee Street in Lisbon, can be reached at 353-6721.

Also comprising the Lisbon Family Practice primary care provider staff are Gregory F. Bianconi, M.D., Stephen Fairchild, M.D., and adult nurse practitioner Janet Stenberg, A.N.P.

08/19/2009

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CMMC Offers Shaken Baby Education

When parents leave Central Maine Medical Center's Special Delivery Family Birthing Center with their newborns, they also leave with information and tools to help them should their baby experience extended periods of crying.

CMMC, like many hospitals and family organizations nationwide, is hoping that by educating parents about crying, they will help prevent Shaken Baby Syndrome. Crying is the primary reason caregivers shake a baby; shaking a baby can lead to death or serious head trauma, including blindness and neurological impairment.

"Crying is normal in newborn babies," says registered nurse Betsy McGrail, CMMC's Maternal Child Health Program Coordinator. "Healthy babies can cry a lot in their first five months of life. Babies can cry from 30 minutes to three hours, with some crying lasting for up to five hours." McGrail says parents should always seek medical care for their baby if they believe the child's health is in question, but that a healthy baby may sometimes cry for unknown reasons, and efforts to soothe him may be futile.

CMMC nurses now talk to new parents and show them a 10-minute DVD produced by The National Center on Shaken Baby Syndrome called "The Period of PURPLE Crying."

"We have all of our patients watch it here with us," McGrail says. PURPLE is an acronym for the phenomenon of extended crying: P stands for peak of crying, U, that it is unexpected, R, resists soothing, P, pain-like face, L, long-lasting, E, evening, when it is most likely to occur. McGrail says most hospitals and family health organizations are using this tool to educate parents and caregivers.

In the DVD, new parents talk frankly about the frustration they experienced when their newborn began to constantly cry. They were not prepared for it, and had to learn how to deal with it. They learned that as long as the baby is in a safe place, it was okay to walk away for a few minutes to compose themselves. They remembered that this period would pass; extensive crying, which may peak at around two months, usually stops after five months.

As they note, what is especially difficult for some caregivers to accept is that comforting behaviors such as holding, singing, bathing, taking the baby for a walk or a ride won’t stop the crying. Such measures are always worth trying, but sometimes the crying will simply have to run its course.

Also featured in the DVD are two women whose babies died after being shaken. In one case, it was the baby's father; in another, it was a daycare provider.

McGrail says all of CMMC's maternity patients are given copies of the DVD for themselves and also to give to potential caregivers. "It gives the parents the information and some tools to help cope," she says.

For more information about the National Center on Shaken Baby Syndrome or The Period of PURPLE Crying, visit www.dontshake.org

A Maine woman also founded a shaking prevention organization, called "Don’t Shake Jake," after her baby died in 1998 after being shaken by a caregiver. In 2000, the Maine legislature enacted "Jake's Law," which increased mandatory sentencing guidelines in the event of a child's death from shaking or other forms of abuse.

For more information, go to www.dontshakejake.org

08/14/2009

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CMMC Family Residents Graduate


The Central Maine Medical Center Family Medicine Residency Program recently graduated the following family physicians: from left, Brian Dressel, M.D., Shauna McElrath, D.O., Gary Rivard, D.O., Sumathi Rajanna, M.D., and Carlos Martinez, M.D.
Central Maine Medical Center's Family Medicine Residency Program recognized five residents at their recent graduation program. Honored at the commencement exercises were family physicians Brian Dressel, M.D., Carlos Martinez, M.D., Shauna McElrath, D.O., Sumathi Rajanna, M.D., and Gary Rivard, D.O.

Several awards were made during the ceremony. The Dr. Bruce Johnson Residency Teacher of the Year Award was presented to family physician and sports medicine specialist Peter Sedgwick, M.D. The recipient of this award is determined by the graduating residents and honors the physician they believe made most outstanding contribution to their residency education.

Sedgwick is a family physician who completed fellowship training in sports medicine. He practices with Central Maine Sports Medicine, a CMMC healthcare practice.

CMMC Family Medicine Residency Program Director Edmund "Ned" Claxton, M.D., was presented a plaque for his mentorship of the graduates. He awarded the graduates their diplomas at the ceremony.

The 76 High Street Family Medicine Center nursing and front office staffs, along with Residency Program Secretary Jill Freda, were recognized for their contributions to the residents' training experience.

Residency Program faculty member Bethany Picker, M.D., was selected by the graduating class to present the commencement address that she entitled "Change: A Leap of Faith." Her personalized message addressed the graduating residents’ talents for change and adaptation and explored how valuable those skills will be as they embark on their careers as family physicians.

CMMC Medical Staff President David Lauver, M.D, commended the graduates on their contributions to the quality of CMMC's patient care and wished them well on their career paths.

Four of the five graduates will continue their studies or begin practice in northern New England; three of these four will stay in Maine.

McElrath begins a one-year hospitalist medicine fellowship at CMMC in July. Rivard will join the CMMC Family Medicine Residency Program as a faculty member in late July. Dressel will begin work at Winthrop Family Practice in Winthrop. Rajanna is relocating to New Hampshire to join the Dartmouth-Hitchcock/Nashua Family Practice group. Martinez will move closer to family in Virginia and work in an urgent care center.

CMMC created the Family Medicine Residency Program in 1978 to support the training of family physicians in order to provide well trained family doctors to the Lewiston-Auburn area as well as to other areas of Maine. Former graduates of the CMMC Residency Program practicing in the greater Lewiston-Auburn area include: Peter Beckel, M.D., Tom Bosma, M.D., Charles Burns, M.D., Denise Cogle, D.O., Paul Davis, M.D., Shannon Deschene, D.O., Steve Fairchild, M.D., Manju Hilary, M.D., Shannon Kenney, D.O., Deb Learson, M.D., Margaret Matthews, M.D., Steven Molnar-Gabor, M.D., Kurt Oswald, M.D., Nathan Raby, M.D., Sarah Skelton, M.D., Ray Tardif, M.D., Fred Van Mourik, M.D., and Geniene Wilson, D.O.

08/14/2009

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New Programs Beginning at CMMC Health and Wellness Center

Central Maine Medical Center’s Wellness Solutions is offering the following programs beginning on July 20:

Ballroom Basics - This five-week series, led by Diane Williams, will introduce beginning dancers to the foxtrot, waltz and swing. Come with a partner for fun and exercise. Fridays from 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.

Beginner Bellydancing - Class instructor Imari (Lisa Cummings) has more than 16 years experience teaching this unique cardiovascular exercise. This six-week series is suitable for all ages and body types. Wednesdays from 7:15 p.m. to 8:15 p.m.

Fit-n-Fun - This entertaining exercise class is designed for the over-55 crowd and focuses on helping participants improve aerobic capacity, strength, flexibility, balance, and coordination. Tuesdays and Thursdays from 9:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m.

Flexible Body, Flexible Life - Bette Swett-Thibeault will lead this six-week series designed to help participants become more flexible in movement and mind. The program is especially good for helping people who do little exercise carefully move toward fitness. Light aerobics, circuit training, stretches, and floor work are included. Because it is a low-impact regimen, it is appropriate for people with back, neck or other movement impairment. A pre-test/post-test component illustrates developing dynamic strength and flexibility. Participants should wear loose clothing and exercise shoes and bring a mat if they have one. Wednesdays from 5:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m.

Functional Fitness – Learn to increase both core and upper body strength and improve the stability of abdominal and low back muscles. Participants will discover how to prevent injury due to improper body mechanics and repetitive motion. Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays from noon to 12:30 p.m.

Happy Hearts - A class designed for people with a "cardiac event" history - including angioplasty, stents, heart attack, cardiac arrest, valve surgery, coronary artery bypass, stable angina, and transplants - who have completed a cardiac rehabilitation program and are looking for a "maintenance" program. The class includes general supervision and individual, independent cardiovascular and strength training. It also incorporates group weight training and self-safety skills. Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays at 8 a.m., 9 a.m., 10:30 a.m. and 1 p.m.

Personal Fitness - Begins with a one-on-one evaluation and program development session with a personal health counselor, then progresses to a structured group exercise plan. Tuesdays and Thursdays from 8 a.m. to 9 a.m., 9:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m., and 10:45 a.m. to 11:45 a.m.

Pilates Core Strengthening - Pilates is designed to develop long lean muscles and strength in the core of the body. All exercises are performed on the floor with the use of a mat. Class participants will be instructed on each exercise, including proper breathing and stretching. Class will be led by Jodi Cornelio. Thursdays from 4:30 p.m. to 5 p.m. and from 5 p.m. to 5:30 p.m.

Power Plus - Jodi Cornelio will lead this class which encompasses weight training exercises and simple "cardio moves" to elevate metabolism and burn fat in every muscle group. The class closes with a gentle cool down with yoga stretch. Proven to be nine times more effective than 45 minutes of aerobic exercise, so results are noticeable within three to four weeks. Tuesdays and Thursdays from 5:30 a.m. to 6:30 a.m.

Step Aerobics - A heart-pumping, muscle-moving and grooving workout that alternates step with muscle work using weights, tubing, etc. Led by Sue Driscoll, this cardio workout is a head-to-toe body strengthener. Mondays and Wednesdays from 3:45 p.m. to 4:45 p.m.

Zumba - Zumba is a Latin-inspired dance exercise program that uses a variety of basic dance styles set to international music such as merengue, salsa, and reggaetone. Using principles of aerobic/fitness interval training and resistance training, Zumba is great for burning calories (up to 500 per class) while sculpting and toning the body. This six-week program is led by Cynthia Nicholas. Mondays from 5 p.m. to 6 p.m.

All programs are offered in the CMMC Health and Wellness Center, 12 High Street Medical Office Building, Lewiston.

Fees are assessed for participation in these programs and must be paid prior to beginning the program. Class registration is on a first-come, first-served basis.

Membership in the CMMC Wellness Center is open to the public.

Call 795-2473 to register or to obtain more information. Information also available through the Events Calendar at www.cmmc.org

07/13/2009

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Central Maine Medical Center Honors Its Volunteers

Central Maine Medical Center recently honored its adult volunteers for giving over 60,000 hours of service during the last year.

Among those honored were Eileen Danforth of Lewiston, who was recognized for giving 21,160 hours of service over a number of years. Other long-time volunteers feted at the event were Mary Nichols of Lewiston, who has contributed 17,978 hours of service, and Anita Belanger of Greene, who has donated 17,069 hours.

Also recognized were 27 Presidential Service Award winners who have each given at least 4,000 hours of service to CMMC. A lapel pin and certificate endorsed by President Barack Obama were awarded to each.

Other honored volunteers were:

Over 11,000 hours of service

Helen McGuire of Lewiston, 11,836 hours; Marie Vickery of Auburn, 11,696; Hartley Fogg of Auburn, 11,675; and Dick Leavitt of Auburn, 11,291 hours.

More than 10,000 hours

Ray Ames of Lewiston, 10,132 hours.

7,000 to 8,000 hours

Mary Ann Jackman of Minot, 7,157; Pauline Fournier of Lewiston, 7,166; and Phyllis Latlippe of Auburn, 7,324 hours.

6,000 to 7,000 hours

Don Nason of Auburn, 6,511; and Glen Spiller of Lewiston, 6,001.

5,000 to 6,000 hours:

Lora Clark of Auburn, 5,490; Jackie Culina of Auburn, 5,594 hours; Toni Ramsey of Auburn, 5,556; Muriel Adams of Auburn, 5,575; and Mike Bussiere of Lewiston, 5,105.

4,000 to 5,000 hours of service:

Lennie Butler of Auburn, 4,315; Patricia Duval of Auburn, 4,460; Helen Hewins of Greene, 4,545; Jim McDonough of Auburn, 4,757; Claire Poirier of Auburn, 4,059; Mildred Rideout of Greene, 4,009; Richard Therrien of Lewiston, 4,008; and Kendall Thurlow of Mechanic Falls, 4,987.

3,000 to 4,000 hours

Betty Audet of Lewiston, 3,247; Connie Brann of Auburn, 3,280; Vicky Carpentier of Oxford, 3,186; Cep Ceplikas of Auburn, 3,023; Lorraine Hamann of Lewiston, 3,184; Carol Kypta of Lewiston, 3,161; Joan Levenson of Auburn, 3,129; Mary Ingalls of Greene, 3,390; Louise Plouff of Auburn, 3,960; Pat Records of Turner, 3,226; and Bea Wailus of Lewiston, 3,728

2,000 to 3,000 hours

Marie Banville of Lewiston, 2,764; Rita Beaulieu of Lewiston, 2,157; B. Bernier of Litchfield, 2,475; Jean Berry of Lewiston, 2,470; John Berry of Lewiston, 2,470; Janice Bilodeau of Auburn, 2,764; Pauline Blais of Lewiston, 2,190; Pauline Burns of Lewiston, 2,284; Dick Bussiere of Auburn, 2,553; Jean Gilbert of Turner, 2,891; Norm Laliberte of Auburn, 2,779; Edgar Lane of Turner, 2,070; Frank McAvoy of Lewiston, 2,368; Glenys Ryder of
Danville, 2,961; Ray Turcotte of Lewiston, 2,703; John Veader of New Gloucester, 2,001; Don Weeks of Auburn, 2,625; and Brenda Weeks of Auburn, 2,681.

1,000 to 2,000 hours

Claire Amero of Auburn, 1,088; Sally Bates of Lewiston, 1,427; Gilda Berube of Auburn, 1,447; Anne Ceplikas of Auburn 1,636; Gillian Curtis of Greene, 1,276; Vivian Cyr of Lewiston, 1,702; Sylvia Fisher of Hartford, 1,200; Sandra Fox of Lewiston, 1,746; Norma Gilbert of Lewiston, 1,597; Dale Gowell of Auburn, 1,300; Pam Heald of Buckfield, 1,755; Judy Holbrook of Auburn, 1,871; Ted Ireland of Poland Spring, 1,358; Jeanne Laliberte of Auburn, 1,892; Bruce MaComber of New Gloucester, 1,633; Herb Masse of Lewiston, 1,542; Louise Masse of Lewiston, 1,542; Roger Nadeau of Lewiston, 1,441; Joan Neal of Auburn, 1,421; Wesly Ryder of Danville, 1,961; Janice Sites of Lewiston, 1,141; Ann Tetreault of Lewiston, 1,029; and Art Turley of Lewiston, 1,827.

500 to 1,000 hours

Lois Barr of Auburn, 764; Faith Bernier of Lewiston, 616; Connie Bishop of Auburn, 764; Lorraine Bolen of Lewiston, 787; Betty Bubier of Greene, 800; Barbara Cloutier of Lewiston, 771; Kathleen Cormier of Minot, 512; Joe DeFillip of Auburn, 525; Phyllis Henderson of Auburn, 786; John Hodgkins of Lewiston, 767; Jean Libby of Auburn, 987; Deborah McIntosh of Lewiston, 615; Claire Naum of Auburn, 939; Lorraine Samson of Lewiston, 932; and Vergie Ann Wade of Monmouth, 880.

100 to 500 hours

Linda Angelo of Turner, 200; Nancy Barrows of Lewiston, 485; Hal Beatty and therapy dog Lizzie of Windham, 269; Mary Begert of Lewiston, 110; Renee Bosse of Monmouth, 157; Diane Caron of Auburn, 151; Jeremy Caron Lewiston, 171; Chuck Cook of Turner, 160; Joanne Cook of Turner, 122; Janice Cote of Lewiston, 123; Lorraine Dion of Sabattus, 440; Patricia Dunbar of Monmouth, 476; Cynthia French of Turner, 295; Marilyn Gagnon of Auburn, 323; Pat Gilbert of Turner, 350; Ed Jalbert of Lewiston, 164; Mike Kelly of Kennebunk, 150; Betty Lane of Sabattus, 195; Priscilla Lavoie of Lewiston, 449; Matt Levasseur of Lewiston, 211; Patricia Levesque of Lewiston, 221; Nancy Lewis of North Monmouth, 195; Larry Mays of Lewiston, 114; Sherry Morneau of Auburn, 199; ReJeanne Nadeau of Minot, 300 hours; Carol Provencher of Lewiston, 213; Sue Ray of Auburn, 150; Barbara Richard of Sabattus, 140; Conrad Soucy of Minot, 214; Nancy Wilkins of Lewiston, 252; Jordan Witherell of Greene, 414; Brenda Watts of Lewiston, 365; Roger Verreault of Turner, 175; Sylvia Verreault of Turner, 402; and Mike Zubiate and therapy dog Jake of Lewiston, 215.

100 hours or less

Pearl Ames of Winthrop, 31; Mae Audibert of Poland, 21; Robert Booth of Lewiston, 8; Alta Bouchard of Lewiston, 26; Connie Cabatingan of Auburn, 18; Michael Casey of Lewiston, 10; Jean Claude Chamillard of Lewiston, 43; Richard Charest of Lewiston, 18; Stanley Chapman of Winthrop, 18; Caroline Chick of Sabattus, 8; Richard Chick of Sabattus, 4; Georgette Croteau of Lewiston, 96; Lita Desanctis of Winthrop, 3; Rolande Dube of Auburn, 18; Steve Dwinal of Lewiston, 78; Bonnie Gammon of Auburn, 98; Christine Goulette of Turner, 12; Amy Guimond of Lewiston, 96; Gary Guimond of Lewiston, 84; Deborah Haire of Auburn, 50; Rachel Hanscomb of Lewiston, 3; Rosy Hayden and therapy Stella of Auburn, 5; Dorothy Higgins of Lewiston, 10; Richard Knight of Auburn, 9; Eva LaDoucer of Lewiston, 18; Gilmay Lamarre of Auburn, 60; Kathy Lamore of Lewiston, 5; Stephen Lamore of Lewiston, 6; Carmelle Laplante of Lewiston, 15; Richard Lavoie of Lewiston, 86; Callie Lemieux of Durham, 3; Karen Lemieux of Durham, 34; Grace McDonald of Lewiston, 7; Tess Maguire of Lewiston, 31; Margaret Marcotte of Lewiston, 18; Celine Martel of Lewiston, 5; Norman McKeone of Auburn, 5; Liane Morreau of Lewiston, 18; Anna Murphy of Auburn, new volunteer; Guy Nadeau of Lewiston, 2; Norma Paradis of Lewiston, 15; Sheila Patrick of Lewiston, 75; Dixie Piper of Poland, 7; Ralph Poland of Auburn, 56; Sandra Porter of North Monmouth, 59; Debra Powell of Lewiston, 25; Shanti Rausch of Auburn, 92; Jim Richard of Lewiston, 7; Carole Roy of Lewiston, 52; Cecile Roy of Lewiston, 12; Roger Roy of Lewiston, 36; Steve Roy of Lewiston, 36, Belinda Samson of Lewiston, 79; Larry Samson of Lewiston, 26; Lorraine Sands of Lewiston, 2; G. Sonagere of Auburn, 56; Hugo Sonagere of Auburn, 56; Mignonne St. Pierre and therapy dog Mocha of Lewiston, 5; Joe Sullivan of Lewiston, 69; Jessica Taylor of Lewiston, 19; Sr. Renee Turcotte of Lewiston, 18; John Whalen of Auburn, 6; David Ward of Lewiston, 13; Sally Wilkinson of Gray, 15; James Young of Auburn, 50; and Mildred Whittingham of Lewiston, 2.

07/10/2009

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Monthly Heart Rhythm Disorder and Cardiac Device Clinic


Brooke S. Ritvo, M.D. & Joe Sala, P.A.
Franklin Memorial Hospital and the Central Maine Heart and Vascular Institute are presenting a monthly Heart Rhythm Disorder and Cardiac Device Clinic in Farmington.

Brooke Ritvo, M.D., a cardiologist who specializes in electrophysiology, and physician assistant Joe Sala, a pacemaker and implantable cardiac device (ICD) specialist, will see patients by appointment at the Franklin Memorial Hospital Outpatient Clinic at 111 Franklin Health Commons beginning July 6. The clinic will subsequently be offered at Franklin Memorial on the first Monday of each month.

Electrophysiology is the study of the electrical system of the heart that generates the heartbeat. Electrophysiologic studies are used to diagnose heart rhythm problems and to determine if a patient needs a pacemaker. Prior to beginning her work in Maine last year, Ritvo practiced for six years as an electrophysiologist with Arrhythmia and Pacemaker Consultants in West Orange, N.J.

Ritvo earned her medical degree from Albert Einstein College of Medicine in Bronx, N.Y., and completed an internship and residency at Columbia Presbyterian Medical Center in New York City. She served a fellowship in cardiovascular disease and a fellowship in electrophysiology at New York Presbyterian Hospital-Columbia Presbyterian Medical Center in New York City. She also served an electrophysiology fellowship at Montefiore Medical Center-Albert Einstein College of Medicine in Bronx, N.Y.

She is certified in cardiovascular disease by the American Board of Internal Medicine.

Sala is certified by the International Board of Heart Rhythm Examiners as a cardiac device specialist and has special training in the management of cardiac pacemakers and internal cardiac defibrillators. He is certified by the National Commission on Certification of Physician Assistants.

He is currently a preceptor for the University of New England Physician Assistant Program in Biddeford and has held teaching positions at The George Washington University and Walter Reed Army Medical Center in Washington, D.C. He is also a sub-investigator for ongoing research studies at Central
Maine Heart Associates in Lewiston.

Both Ritvo and Sala practice with Central Maine Heart Associates in Lewiston.

To schedule an appointment, call 779-2539.

06/25/2009

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CMMC announces $45 million construction renovation project

Central Maine Medical Center on Tuesday unveiled plans for a $45 million construction-renovation of its emergency medical services facilities and laboratory.

With Gov. John Baldacci, Second District Congressman Mike Michaud, and other state and local officials joining in the announcement, CMMC released details of a project that will nearly double the size of its emergency department and more than triple the floor space of its laboratory.

CMMC planners say the construction-renovation project has been sorely needed for many years. The Maine Department of Health and Human Services approved the project late last year.

The CMMC Emergency Department was designed to serve 25,000 patient visits annually and now accommodates some 50,000 people yearly. The facility was last updated in 1990 with the completion of the Norman E. Ross Centennial Wing.

The CMMC Laboratory was last renovated in 1975 with the opening of the Dana S. Thompson Wing. At that time, the lab processed about 250,000 tests annually. Today the lab handles nearly a million tests each year, and provides services to healthcare providers from throughout the region.

"This project is critically needed and will resolve the space, privacy and logistical problems associated with these woefully undersized departments," said Central Maine Health-care President Peter Chalke. "Over 200 construction and trade jobs will be created during the construction phase with some $140 million added to the local economy."

Chalke said the final decision to proceed with the project was due, in part, to increased federal contributions to Medi-caid payments as part of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, the federal stimulus program that funded Maine's payment of some $24.7 million owed to CMH hospitals for services provided to MaineCare patients in 2005 and 2006. "Without that payment," he said, "we couldn't do this much needed project."

Central Maine Healthcare is still owed some $35 million for MaineCare services rendered from 2006 through 2009.

A recent analysis suggested that CMMC's existing laboratory facility is only about 40 percent of the size considered ideal for the volume of service it provides. The hospital's plans for a new state-of-the art lab will more than triple the size of the existing facility and optimize efficiencies. CMMC's lab is highly automated and integrates a secure electronic medical record (EMR) system that makes test results available to care providers throughout the Central Maine Medical Family system.

Referring to CMMCs laboratory facilities, Gov. Baldacci said a "windshield tour" of the hospital last year convinced him of the need for upgrading facilities at the Lewiston hospital. "I couldn't, frankly, believe you were working in a third of the space you need," he told the crowd gathered at CMMC. "The picture outside wasn't the picture inside."

Baldacci said the project would have a "ripple impact to our economy" while leveraging federal funds at a ratio of $3.50 to every $1 spent by Maine.

"What's happening here today is the right thing for Maine," he said.

Plans call for the Emergency Department footprint to almost double in size with the expansion creating 44 private treatment rooms. Patient flow through triage (initial evaluation) to treatment rooms will decrease wait times. The individual treatment rooms will greatly enhance privacy for patients.

Workflow and other systems are being designed to decrease the time from initial ED evaluation to hospital admission or discharge. To help achieve this objective, the facility design will include a separate Clinical Decision Unit located within the Emergency Department where patients can be held for extended observation.

"The ED and lab upgrades are essentially infrastructure projects for a growing major medical center," said CMMC President Laird Covey.

Covey said the CMMC Emergency Department would be serving even more patients if the hospital hadn't been successful in recruiting new primary care providers. The increase in primary care providers has taken significant pressure off the hospital's Emergency Department service, which often serves patients who don't have a primary care provider.

Medicare and MaineCare recipients will experience no increase in costs related to this project. The Maine Bureau of Insurance estimates the maximum impact of this project in the third-year of operation to be less than ½ of 1% on private health insurance premiums.

The project will be funded through hospital cash reserves and long-term bond financing.

Congressman Michaud said the improvements at CMMC are appropriate for one of the states healthcare leaders. He noted that CMMC was the first hospital in Maine to initiate a 24-hour emergency service and was also the first to employ a full-time emergency physician. He called the project at CMMC "a great opportunity for the Lewiston-Auburn area."

CMMC is a tertiary care medical center serving some 400,000 people in western, central and coastal Maine, the states vast and predominantly rural 'central tier'. Patients from throughout the region are routinely transferred to CMMC for specialty care.

CMMC services include a Level II trauma center, the Central Maine Heart and Vascular Institute, which supports Maine's only accredited Chest Pain and PCI center), a Neonatal Intermediate Care Unit, and the Central Maine Comprehensive Cancer Center. One of Maine's two LifeFlight of Maine medical helicopters is based at CMMC. The Central Maine Regional Resource Center for Emergency Preparedness is also headquartered at CMMC.

Groundbreaking for the project is scheduled for the fall with completion expected in 2011.

For more information, contact Chuck Gill at 795-2711.

06/24/2009

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CMMC College of Nursing Graduates 52 Students


Sharon Kuhrt, College Director & Sandy Morin, 2009 Graduate
The Central Maine Medical Center College of Nursing and Health Professions graduated 52 students recently in a ceremony at the Franco-American Heritage Center in Lewiston.

Having successfully completed the CMMC College of Nursing's (CON) two-year, four-semester registered nursing education program, the graduates were awarded associate degrees in the applied science of nursing. A number of graduating students received awards during the ceremony.

The CMMC College of Nursing and Health Professions President's Award for the senior student attaining the highest academic achievement went to honors student Jeannine Boutin-Lesage of Hope.

Jared J. Miller of Winthrop was winner of the Central Maine General Hospital-CMMC School of Nursing Alumni Association Award. The winner of the Alumni Association Award is chosen by members of the graduating class as the person they would most like to have take care of themselves or their family.

Katherine J. Dunn of Lisbon Falls was honored with the CMMC Board of Trustees Award, which is awarded to the student who demonstrates gentleness,independence, understanding, caring, compassion and love in communicating with and caring for people. The recipient must also exhibit excellence in delivering nursing care.

Honors student Aaron Strout of Sabattus was presented the CMMC College of Nursing and Health Professions Board Of Trustees Award, which is given each year to the student who demonstrates leadership qualities, displays concern and understanding for others, makes decisions and assumes responsibility for his or her actions, and establishes trust in interactions.

Leslie B. Geissinger of Jay was given the Samuel L. Singer and Ruth Small Award, which is presented to a student who will become a credit to herself and her profession, and who shows pride as a representative of the CMMC CON and maintains good academic standing.

Heather S. Pugh of Lisbon Falls was presented the Charles E. Fortier Jr. Memorial Award, which is given to the student whose "behavior as a whole is indicative of a people-oriented person," who directs "his or her expression in action rather than denying its existence," and whose "sense of humor permeates all of his or her activities."

CMMC Medical Staff Awards for Excellence in Nursing were also presented to the following graduates: Jennifer M. Wallstrom of Brownfield, mental health nursing; Cora Matthews of Auburn, medical nursing; Jada L. Reed of Readfield, surgical nursing; Michaela R. True of Lewiston, obstetrical nursing; and Nicole P. Duva of Deerfield Beach, Fla., pediatric nursing.

Also comprising the CMMC College of Nursing and Health Professions Class of 2009 are: class vice president Chelsea P. Allen of New Gloucester; Valerie L Allen of Byron; class secretary Rachelle A. Artea of Lewiston; Michelle H. Barber of West Paris; Jessie L. Beardsley of Lisbon Falls; Paula J. Bernier of Gray; Kimberly A. Brooks of Jay; class treasurer Nicole M. Cabrera of Brunswick; Tracy J. Clark of Norway; Sasha A. L. Doughty of Brunswick; Kathleen L. Dube of Lewiston; Tiffany E. Dunn of Buckfield; Donna M. Dymond of Lewiston; John A. Gallagher of Portland; Eric D. Giguere of Lewiston; Matthew R. Guy of Enfield, N.H.; Jessica M. Hamm of Auburn; Stacy L. Harriman of Lisbon; Diane M. Jeselskis of Buckfield; Amanda L. Johnson of Auburn; Marianne Komanecky of Andover; honors student Nicola M. Lewis of Nobleboro; Irene C. Manson of Bowdoin; honors student Amy K. Martin of Strong; Kira L. Mattox of Monmouth; Kiley K. Morgan of Chesterville; Sandy S. Morin of Wales; Tiffany R. Noble of Norway; Laurie C. Oliver of Falmouth; Shauna M. Perry of Portland; Adam Pilon of Augusta; Erica Romanowsky of Durham; Jennifer Ross of Wayne; Nancy K. Stone of Windham; Cynthia D. Swendsen of Gorham; Erin D. Theriault of Lewiston; Tracey L. Thornton of Gardiner; Karen A. Tims of Hartford; Tiffany R. Toulouse of Palmyra; Erika B. Webster of Dixfield; and class president Jennifer L. Wright of Winthrop.

06/17/2009

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USA Cycling Champion Joins Dempsey Challenge

Three-time National US Time Trail Champion and Team Garmin-Slipstream professional cyclist David Zabriskie will join actor and cycling enthusiast Patrick Dempsey and fellow professional cyclist George Hincapie in "The Dempsey Challenge: A Journey for Hope" on October 4 in Lewiston-Auburn, Maine. The Dempsey Challenge is a fund-raising event benefiting The Patrick Dempsey Center for Cancer Hope & Healing at Central Maine Medical Center.

"I am excited to join Patrick Dempsey and George Hincapie at the inaugural Dempsey Challenge this October. It's a great cause and I'm honored to help out any way I can to spread the message of hope and healing," states Zabriskie. "Plus, it's gorgeous in Maine in the fall and I'm looking forward to my lobster once I cross the finish line."

The 30-year-old Zabriskie turned pro in 2001 and is the only American rider to win consecutive stages in all three grand tour races: the Tour of Spain, the Tour of Italy, and the Tour de France. He holds the record for the fastest time trial in Tour de France history after averaging 33.97 mph over the 19-kilometer stage one in 2005, two seconds ahead of second-place finisher Lance Armstrong.

"The addition of Dave Zabriskie will add plenty of excitement to the Dempsey Challenge," said Patrick Dempsey. "I'm thrilled to have such an accomplished rider participate in our event. He also works tirelessly for his own road safety charity Yield to Life, which benefits cyclists everywhere."

In 2003, Zabriskie was confined to a wheelchair after colliding with an SUV while on a training ride. The accident prompted him to establish Yield for Life, a non-profit organization devoted to creating a safer environment for cyclists and to help motorists become aware that cyclists deserve a safe space on the road.

The October event will feature four bicycle routes of 10, 25, 50 and 100 miles, a 5-Kilometer Walk/Run and a Kids' Fun Run. The event will also include pre-race festivities and an event-day festival for the whole family.

Hincapie, a Tour de France stage winner and member of Team Columbia-High Road, is also committed to the Dempsey Challenge. His company, Hincapie Sportswear, is designing custom cycling jerseys for the event. The jerseys will be used to raise additional funds for the Dempsey Center.

The registration and informational site at www.dempseychallenge.org features interactive registration tools for participants and volunteers, as well as maps of the various event courses and other details. Although the event offers incentive fund-raising opportunities for participants, no fund-raising minimums will be required.

06/17/2009

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New CMMC sleep doctor

Paula Kirby-Long, M.D., a sleep medicine specialist, has been appointed to
the Central Maine Medical Center Medical Staff. She has joined Pulmonary and
Critical Care Associates and is practicing at the Central Maine Sleep Center
in Lewiston.

Prior to beginning her work at CMMC, Kirby-Long practiced at the
Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center Sleep Disorders Center in Lebanon, N.H.
She also served as a staff psychiatrist at West Central Behavioral Health in
Claremont, N.H. She also worked as a psychiatrist at Northeast Kingdom Human
Services in St. Johnsbury, Vt.

Before beginning her medical education, Kirby-Long worked as an adult nurse
practitioner at Faulkner Hospital Outpatient Clinic in Boston and later as a
geriatric nurse practitioner at E.N. Rodgers Veterans Hospital in Bedford,
Mass. She has also served an adjunct professor of graduate nursing at the
University of Lowell in Lowell, Mass. She was a psychiatry instructor at
Dartmouth Medical School in Hanover, N.H., where she worked with physicians
who were serving sleep disorder fellowships as well as those in the
psychiatry residency program.

She holds a bachelors degree in nursing from Duke University in Durham,
N.C., and a masters degree in geriatrics from Boston University in Boston.
She completed a two-year Post Baccalaureate Pre-Medical Program at Harvard
Extension School in Cambridge, Mass., and earned her medical degree at
Dartmouth Medical School in Hanover, N.H.

She completed residency training in internal medicine and psychiatry at
Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center. She recently concluded a one-year
fellowship in sleep disorders, also at Dartmouth-Hitchcock.

Kirby-Long has been recognized with several academic awards, including
Excellence in Psychiatry Award from Dartmouth Medical School, Psychiatry
Resident of the Year and the Alma Haas-Milham Award in internal medicine
from Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center.

She is certified in sleep medicine and psychiatry by the American Board of
Psychiatry and Neurology.

The Central Maine Sleep Center, located on the lower level at 60 High Street
in Lewiston, opened earlier this spring. The facility features eight large,
comfortable sleep rooms and state-of-the-art diagnostic technology.

Pulmonary and Critical Care Associates, a clinical department of CMMC, is
also comprised of Neil J Duval, M.D., Michele M. Guzowski, M.D., Evan L.
Ramser, D.O., Erwey A. Teng, M.D., and Diana L. Wilson, M.D. The group
practices from offices at Suite 300, 76 High Street, Lewiston. The office
can be reached at 795-5544.

05/26/2009

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Food for Life series at CMMC

Food for Life: Eating Right for Cancer Survivorship is a free four-week
series for cancer patients, survivors and caregivers offered at the Patrick
Dempsey Center for Cancer Hope and Healing at Central Maine Medical Center.
The series, which begins Monday June 1, is sponsored by The Cancer Project,
a non-profit organization based in Washington, D.C. that is dedicated to
advancing cancer prevention and survival through nutrition education.

The classes will be led by Bethel chef and culinary educator Catherine
Dicocco, Dicocco has more than 25 years teaching and cooking experience in whole
foods and owns the Caf DiCocoa in Bethel. In class, Catherine will offer
delicious samples of nutritious foods, plus recipes to bring home.

Classes will cover a variety of cancer-related nutrition topics. The
schedule is:

June 1: Fueling up on Low-Fat Foods and Favoring Fiber
June 8: Discovering Dairy Alternatives and Planning Healthy Meals
June 15: Replacing Meats and Enhancing Antioxidants and Phytochemicals
June 22: Immune Boosting Fods and Maintaining a Healthy Weight

Presentations will be held 1:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. in Conference Room I
on the lower level of the 12 High Street Medical Office Building at Central
Maine Medical Center.

For more information or to pre-register, call 795-8250 or 1-877-DEMPCTR.
For more information about The Cancer Project, visit www.cancerproject.com

05/26/2009

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George Hincapie to join Dempsey Challenge

Olympian, Tour de France veteran to ride in central Maine


George Hincapie, professional cyclist
Tour de France Stage Winner and Team Columbia-High Road professional cyclist George Hincapie will join actor and cycling enthusiast, Patrick Dempsey at The Dempsey Challenge, A Journey For Hope on October 4, 2009 in Lewiston-Auburn, Maine. The Dempsey Challenge is a charity event to benefit The Patrick Dempsey Center for Cancer Hope and Healing.

“Patrick and I became friends after working together on the Amgen Breakaway from Cancer project,” said George Hincapie, 5-time Olympian and co-owner of Hincapie Sportswear. “We share a passion for cycling and we both want to do our part in the fight against cancer. Cancer and the terrible suffering that it can bring have touched me and my family. I understand the importance of this kind of support. I’m looking forward to participating in the event.”

The October event will feature four bicycle routes, a 5-Kilometer Walk/Run and a Kids’ Fun Run. The event will also include pre-race festivities and an event-day Festival for the whole family. Hincapie Sportswear is making the custom cycling jerseys for the event. These jerseys will be used to raise additional funds for the Patrick Dempsey Center.

"It's an honor to have someone of the caliber and class of George Hincapie joining the ranks of The Dempsey Challenge," states Patrick Dempsey. "George is a cycling legend and his presence will add to the excitement and enthusiasm already building around The Dempsey Challenge.”

The registration and informational site for The Dempsey Challenge: A Journey For Hope features interactive registration tools for participants and volunteers, as well as maps of the various event courses and other details. Although the event will offer incentive fundraising opportunities for participants, no fundraising minimums will be required.

For more than 50 years, the Hincapies have dedicated themselves to excellence in the sport of cycling. Through Hincapie Sportswear, they are combining the lessons they have learned on the road with excellence in customer service, quality craftsmanship and stylish designs, to create the most comfortable, functional and stylish cycling apparel in the world.


About Hincapie™ Sportswear, Inc.:
Hincapie™ Sportswear, Inc., headquartered in Greenville, S.C., is a manufacturer and marketer of distinctive clothing for the performance cyclist. The company creates premium, custom cycling apparel and accessories for competitive teams and clubs. Hincapie also manufactures a retail line of high-tech, performance cycling apparel and accessories available through bicycle retailers nationwide. The company also manufacturers Hincapie Skin Defense SPF 30 sunscreen and Hincapie Premium Denim. For more information, please visit
www.hincapie.com, HincapieSkinDefense.com and HincapieDenim.com

05/07/2009

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Central Maine Spine Center opens in Auburn

New service includes diagnosis and treatment of spine problems

Central Maine Medical Center has established a new service for people coping with back and neck disorders.

The Central Maine Spine Center, located at 10 Minot Avenue in Auburn, was created to provide coordinated care for individuals with back and neck conditions. "We developed the center to offer patients a more focused, more efficient way to get help for problems involving the spine," said Doug Divello, CMMC's vice president, professional and support services.

The Spine Center marshals the resources of physician specialists, and physical and occupational therapists to offer diagnostic and treatment options for all types of spine problems, including conditions of the neck and upper and lower back. Divello said the center's narrow concentration on evaluating and treating spine disorders will generally result in more satisfactory patient experiences and a shorter path to definitive care.

Physician assistant Ryan Card coordinates the center with the goal of assuring that patients are directed to the proper care setting. "Up to 80 percent of people experience back or neck pain sometime in their life. These problems can be very disruptive. But they can also be effectively treated in most cases. And contrary to popular belief, effective treatment usually does not require surgery," Card said.

"The Central Maine Spine Center coordinates the services of doctors who specialize in physical medicine, neurology, pain and headache medicine, neurosurgery, and orthopedic spine surgery. Collectively, this team can diagnose and treat virtually any problem involving the spine. Physical and occupational therapists add to the mix their unique skills for helping patients improve their physical function and ability to perform activities of daily living," Card said.

The Central Maine Spine Center evaluates patients who are referred to the center at any stage of previous diagnosis or treatment. These evaluations may include medical imaging studies and other diagnostic work-ups, including electro-diagnostics. Follow-up care is then planned in consultation with the patient and their primary care physician. Patients may be referred to physician specialists.

"In addition to the clinical expertise the center provides, we understand the challenges patients with back and neck problems may be facing, such as living with pain or simply managing daily activities. This sense of empathy, we think, improves our ability to connect with our patients," Card said.

Spinal disorder treatments coordinated by the center range widely, and may include conservative approaches like physical therapy, such high-tech interventions as nerve blocks for pain management, and in some cases, neurologic or orthopedic surgery

The center also provides patient education focusing on injury prevention and beneficial lifestyle changes.

For more information about the Central Maine Spine Center, call 795-2929.

05/07/2009

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CMMC's Wellness Solutions April programs

April Programs

Central Maine Medical Center's Wellness Solutions is offering the following
programs beginning on April 13:

Ballroom Dancing: Review - This six-week series, led by Diane Williams, is
for those who have had a beginner's class in foxtrot, waltz, and swing and
want to learn more steps, brush up, or review. Come with a partner for fun
and exercise. Fridays from 7:35 p.m. to 8:35 p.m.

Ballroom Dancing: Rumba and Cha Cha - Diane Williams leads this six-week
class. Participants, who must have prior experience with the basic footwork
of these two dances, will learn crossovers, fifth position breaks, open
breaks, parallel breaks, and turns. Come with a partner and dance to the
Latin beat. Fridays from 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.

Bellydancing � Class instructor Imari (Lisa Cummings) has more than 16 years
experience teaching this unique cardiovascular exercise. This six-week
series is suitable for all ages and body types. Wednesdays from 7:15 p.m. to
8:15 p.m.

Bellydancing - This entertaining exercise class is designed for the over-55
crowd and focuses on helping participants improve aerobic capacity,
strength, flexibility, balance, and coordination. Tuesdays and Thursdays
from 9:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m.

Flexible Body, Flexible Life - Bette Swett-Thibeault will lead this six-week
series that covers many forms of low-impact movement, from light aerobics to
stretching to circuit training, and includes training ball work for balance
and core strength training. Each class ends with 10 to 15 minute relaxation
response activity. This class is great for people with back, neck or other
issues that impair movement. Participants should wear loose clothing and
exercise shoes and bring a mat if they have one. There is a pre-test and
post-test component to this program. Wednesdays from 5:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m.

Functional Fitness - Learn to increase both core and upper body strength and
improve the stability of abdominal and low back muscles. Participants will
discover how to prevent injury due to improper body mechanics and repetitive
motion. Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays from noon to 12:30 p.m.

Happy Hearts � A class designed for people with a �cardiac event� history �
including angioplasty, stents, heart attack, cardiac arrest, valve surgery,
coronary artery bypass, stable angina, and transplants � who have completed
a cardiac rehabilitation program and are looking for a �maintenance�
program. The class includes general supervision and individual, independent
cardiovascular and strength training. It also incorporates group weight
training and self-safety skills. Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays at 8 a.m.,
9 a.m., 10:30 a.m. and 1 p.m.

Hypnotherapy For Weight Loss � Valerie St. Clair will lead this four-week
session. Topics will include exercise, diet improvement, food portions and
servings, benefits of fiber, stress reduction, understanding food labels,
reducing fat intake, tips on eating out and at special occasions, handling
cravings, and more. April 15 and 29 and May 6 and 13 from 6:30 p.m. to 7:45
p.m.

Personal Fitness - Begins with a one-on-one evaluation and program
development session with a personal health counselor, then progresses to a
structured group exercise plan. Tuesdays and Thursdays from 8 a.m. to 9
a.m., 9:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m., and 10:45 a.m. to 11:45 a.m.

Pilates - Joseph Pilate's conditioning invention is designed to develop long
lean muscles and strength in the core of the body. All exercises are
performed on the floor with the use of a mat. Class participants will be
instructed on each exercise, including proper breathing and stretching.
Class will be led by Jodi Cornelio. Thursdays from 4:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m.

Power Plus - Jodi Cornelio will lead this class which encompasses weight
training exercises and simple 'cardio moves' to elevate metabolism and burn
fat in every muscle group. The class closes with a gentle cool down with
yoga stretch. Proven to be nine times more effective than 45 minutes of
aerobic exercise, so results are noticeable within three to four weeks.
Tuesdays and Thursdays from 5:30 a.m. to 6:30 a.m.

Qigong For Health, Healing, and Stress Reduction ' Qigong is an ancient
Chinese exercise art and integral part of traditional Chinese medicine that
is relaxing, stimulates all the major meridians, and gently exercises
muscles, ligaments, and tendons, while also focusing on breathing
techniques. Betsey Foster will lead this six-week series. Bring a friend and
the second person is half price. Tuesdays from 5:15 p.m. to 6:15 p.m.

Step Aerobics - A heart-pumping, muscle-moving and grooving workout that
alternates step with muscle work using weights, tubing, etc. Led by Sue
Driscoll, this cardio workout is a head-to-toe body strengthener. Mondays,
Wednesdays and Fridays from 3:45 p.m. to 4:45 p.m.

Tai Chi - Betsey Foster instructs these this six-week series in t'ai chi, an
ancient Chinese movement art that uses a sequence of precise body movements,
meditation, and synchronized breathing to improve health and well-being.
T'ai chi movements express the yin and yang components (opposites) that are
fundamental to Chinese medicine. T'ai chi has been shown to lower blood
pressure, improve balance, increase respiratory capacity, and benefit the
immune response. Open to all skill levels. Tuesdays from 6:30 p.m. to 7:30
p.m.

Yoga - This six-weeks series introduces participants to the world of
relaxation and rejuvenation through yoga. Focuses on centering and balance
through poses, breathing exercises, meditation, and relaxation. Tuesdays and
Thursdays from 4 p.m. to 5:30 pm or Tuesdays from 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m.
Instructor for the series will be Marcy Covey.

Zumba - Zumba is a Latin-inspired dance exercise program that uses a variety
of basic dance styles set to international music such as merengue, salsa,
and reggaetone. Using principles of aerobic/fitness interval training and
resistance training, Zumba is great for burning calories (up to 500 per
class) while sculpting and toning the body. This six-week program is led by
Cynthia Nicholas. Mondays from 5 p.m. to 6 p.m. and/or Wednesdays from 9:30
a.m. to 10:30 a.m., and/or Saturdays from 10:15 a.m. to 11:15 a.m.

All programs are offered in the CMMC Health and Wellness Center, 12 High
Street Medical Office Building, Lewiston.

Fees are assessed for participation in these programs and must be paid prior
to beginning the program. Class registration is on a first-come,
first-served basis.

Membership in the CMMC Wellness Center is open to the public.

Call 795-2473 to register or to obtain more information. Information also
available through the Events Calendar at www.cmmc.org


04/10/2009

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'Food for Life -- Eating Right for Cancer Survivorship'

'Food for Life -- Eating Right for Cancer Survivorship' is a free
presentation offered at the Patrick Dempsey Center for Cancer Hope and
Healing at Central Maine Medical Center April 20. The program is open to
cancer patients, survivors and caregivers.

The program, presented by Catherine DiCocoa, will include information about
low-fat, plant-based foods that can help to nourish the body and strengthen
the immune system. Besides information about these foods and how they
support health and recovery, participants will have the opportunity to taste
samples from delicious recipes.

DiCocoa has more than 25 years teaching and cooking experience in whole
foods and owns the Caf' DiCocoa in Bethel. She is presently working with the
Cancer Project, a non-profit organization in Washington, D.C. dedicated to
advancing cancer prevention and survival through nutrition education.

The presentation will be held 1:30 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. in Conference Room H
at CMMC.

For more information or to pre-register, call 795-8250 or 1-877-DEMPCTR.


04/10/2009

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'Managing the Stress of Survivorship'

'Managing the Stress of Survivorship' is the subject of a free telephone
education workshop April 14 for people living with cancer, sponsored by The
Patrick Dempsey Center for Cancer Hope and Healing at Central Maine Medical
Center. The teleconference, offered by CancerCare Connect, is the first of
three in 'The Seventh Annual Cancer Survivorship Series: Living With,
Through, and Beyond Cancer.'

Similar teleconferences will also be held May 19 and June 23. They are all
held from 1:30 to 2:30 p.m.

Other upcoming teleconference topics include:

April 23: Treatment Update on Glioblastoma

April 24: Dental Health During Cancer Treatments

April 29: Breast Cancer and African American Women

All conferences are held 1:30 p.m. to 2:30 p.m.

Please register in advance by calling the Dempsey Center at 795-8250. All
calls will be free of charges. You may also listen at home by registering
through CancerCare Connect 1-800-813-4673 or www.cancercare.org.


04/10/2009

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New digital mammography system

The Central Maine Medical Family, a regional healthcare system that includes
Central Maine Medical Center in Lewiston, Bridgton Hospital and Rumford
Hospital, has implemented digital mammography at all three hospitals.

With the assistance of a $400,000 grant from Avon, CMMF has installed new
digital mammography technology at all three hospitals, and made other
programmatic improvements to its mammography service.

Digital mammography technology enables radiologists to manipulate images on
high-resolution computer monitors and create more diagnostically revealing
images of breast tissue than possible with conventional mammography. Each
digital mammography unit is equipped with a computer-aided detection system
that highlights possible abnormalities detected during the digital breast
imaging process.

'The Sam and Jennie Bennett Breast Center at Central Maine Medical Center
led off this initiative in July of last year with the installation of two
digital mammography units and a digital stereotactic breast biopsy unit. A
digital mammography unit was installed in December at Bridgton Hospital's
Rosina Carlise Mammography Suite. In January Rumford Hospital was equipped
with the digital system,' said Cynthia Harradon, Central Maine Healthcare's
medical imaging director.

Harradon said that with these technological upgrades in place, the quality
of mammographic images is more consistent and promotes a better standardized
system of interpretation by X-Ray Professional Association, the radiologists
who provide services for CMMF. Because the digital information is stored on
a central computer server, radiologists at any of the three hospitals can
interpret mammographic images taken within the CMMF system. 'The improved
portability of images possible through digital file transfer also allows us
to better serve patients coming in or transferring out of our system,'
Harradon added.

'Digital mammography benefits both patients and physicians for a number of
reasons,' Harradon explained. 'It delivers as much as 1/3 less radiation to
the patient compared to conventional mammography. It also results in shorter
patient visits, and a significant reduction in wait times for screening
mammogram appointments because individual exams are done more quickly.'

Harradon said the new digital systems are being used for both kinds of
mammography services:

* Screening mammography that is used to look for breast changes in women who
have no signs of breast abnormality. Annual screening is recommended for
women age 40 and older and does not require an order from a healthcare
provider.

* Diagnostic mammography is for a woman with known breast changes such as
lumps, pain or nipple discharge and is ordered by a healthcare provider.

'We encourage all patients to take care of their breast health needs as
early detection is the key to staying healthy,' Harradon said.

The Sam and Jennie Bennett Breast Care Center at CMMC - 795-2100. Bridgton
Hospital Rosina. Carlise Mammography Suite' 647-6095. Rumford Hospital
Mammography Suite - 369-1131.


Photo caption: Sue Rossignol, lead mammographer and supervisor at Central
Maine Medical Center's Sam and Jennie Bennett Breast Care Center, begins an
exam using the digital mammography equipment recently installed at the
center.

04/10/2009

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Hospitalists named fellows

Two Central Maine Medical Center physicians have been named fellows of a
national physicians organization.

Alan D. Verrill, M.D., and Bruce E. Condit, M.D., hospitalists at CMMC, have
earned Fellow in Hospital Medicine (FHM) designation from the Society of
Hospital Medicine (SHD). This fellowship is an avenue for special
recognition for SHD members who have distinguished themselves among their
colleagues and the hospital medicine specialty.

Verrill and Condit are members of Central Maine Inpatient Physicians Group,
an organization of nine board-certified internists and two physician
assistants who provide hospitalist care at CMMC in Lewiston.

'Until now, hospitalists have not had a way to distinguish themselves from
their colleagues,' said SHM CEO Larry Wellikson, M.D. 'The FHM designation
gives hospitalists a chance to set themselves apart and be recognized for
all of their work that continues to make hospital medicine the fastest
growing medical specialty in history.'

To be designated as a Fellow in Hospital Medicine, an applicant must be a
hospitalist for five years, a member of SHM for three years, demonstrate
their dedication to quality and process improvement, commitment to
organizational teamwork and leadership, as well as lifelong learning and
education.

Approximately 500 Hospitalist will be inducted in the inaugural class of
fellows in May at Hospital Medicine 2009 in Chicago.

SHM is the premier medical society representing hospitalists. Over the past
decade, studies have shown that hospitalists decrease patient lengths of
stay, reduce hospital costs and readmission rates, all while increasing
patient satisfaction. Hospital medicine is the fastest-growing healthcare
specialty, with over 28,000 hospitalists currently practicing.

04/01/2009

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Cardiac device clinics

Central Maine Heart Associates will begin offering monthly cardiac device
clinics at Franklin Memorial Hospital in Farmington starting March 30. The
clinics will be held on an ongoing basis on the last Monday of each month.

Physician assistant Joe Sala from the Central Maine Heart and Vascular
Institute in Lewiston will join cardiologist Robert Bender, D.O., in
offering cardiology services at the hospital. A certified cardiac device
specialist, Sala is proficient in checking and programming cardiac
pacemakers and internal cardiac defibrillators.

Sala is certified by the National Commission on Certification of Physician
Assistants, and is a sub-investigator for ongoing research studies at
Central Maine Heart Associates in Lewiston. He successfully completed the
International Board of Heart Rhythm Examiners Competency Exam in Cardiac
Pacing and Defibrillation in October 2008.

He is currently an instructor for the University of New England in
Biddeford’s Physician Assistant Program. He previously held a teaching
position at George Washington University in Washington, D.C., and worked at
Walter Reed Army Medical Center, also in Washington, D.C.

For more information or to schedule an appointment, call 779-2454.

03/25/2009

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Dempsey Center Offers Free Cancer Teleconferences

he Patrick Dempsey Center for Cancer Hope and Healing at Central Maine
Medical Center is offering free telephone education workshops for people
living with cancer, throughout the month of April. The program, offered by
CancerCare, Inc., features cancer specialists who will discuss a variety of
cancer issues.

Teleconferences offered include:

April 4: Medical Update on Colon Cancer: What's New?

April 11: Medical Emergencies in Cancer Treatment

April 23: Treatment Update on Glioblastoma

April 24: Dental Health During Cancer Treatments

April 29: Breast Cancer and African American Women

All conferences are held 1:30 p.m. to 2:30 p.m.

Please register in advance by calling the Center at 795-8250. You may also
listen at home by registering through CancerCare, Inc., by calling
1-800-813-4673 or visiting www.cancercare.org

03/25/2009

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Dempsey Challenge website launches

The registration website for The Dempsey Challenge, a regional bicycle and
run/walk event set for October 4 in central and western Maine, has launched,
according to a spokesperson at Central Maine Medical Center.

Event organizer Wendy Tardif said that www.dempseychallenge.org
, the registration and informational site
for �The Dempsey Challenge: A Journey For Hope� has been activated. The site
features interactive registration tools for participants and volunteers, as
well as maps of the various event courses and other details.

The Dempsey Challenge will feature four bicycle routes � including a
100-mile course � a 5-Kilometer Walk/Run, and a Kid�s Fun Run. The event
will also include pre-race festivities. Several professional bicycle riders
are expected to participate, including five-term Olympian George Hincapie.

Plans for the Dempsey Challenge were made public in late December when actor
Patrick Dempsey visited Central Maine Medical Center to join in a press
conference announcing the event.

Funds raised through the event will benefit the Patrick Dempsey Center for
Cancer Hope and Healing at Central Maine Medical Center in Lewiston.

03/25/2009

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CMHVI wellness van

April visits

The Central Maine Heart and Vascular Institute Wellness Van will visit the
following locations in April:

April 1 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Oxford Wal-Mart.

April 8 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Augusta Wal-Mart.

April 15 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Rumford Hannaford.

April 22 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Gray Marketplace, Route 100, Gray.

During the van’s stops at these locations, two CMHVI health counselors will
provide blood pressure checks, osteoporosis screenings, and cholesterol
screenings. (There will be a $10 fee for a cholesterol screening.)

Advance appointments are not necessary. Anyone interested in more
information about CMMC Wellness Van services is urged to call 795-8240 or
email prevention@cmhc.org

03/25/2009

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CMMC ICD March 19

“Eating Well” will be the topic of a presentation set for the March 19
meeting of the Central and Western Maine ICD Support Group.

Leading the session will be Jodi Cornelio, a nutritionist and personal
trainer at CMMC in Lewiston.

Cornelio has been offering nutrition and personal training consultative
services for over 15 years. Prior to joining CMMC last year, she operated
her own wellness center where she and her staff coached, counseled and
trained a large client base.

She earned her undergraduate degree in nutrition from the University of
Maine at Farmington and her master’s degree in business administration from
Thomas College in Waterville. She is certified as a personal trainer through
the American Council on Exercise and in holistic health practices, Hatha
Yoga and Pilates through the International Sports Medicine Association.

The ICD Support Group is for individuals who have an implantable
cardioverter defibrillator (ICD). Family members and other support persons
are also welcome to attend. The meeting provides a forum for discussion
regarding experiences with ICD and presents learning opportunities not only
about living with the devices, but about cardiac health issues.

The presentation will be held in the Central Maine Heart and Vascular
Institute first-floor Young Wing conference room from 2:30 p.m. to 4 p.m.

Anyone interested in learning more about the ICD Support Group is urged to
call Joe Sala at 753-3910.

03/13/2009

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March 17th Program

"Body-Mind Balance", a free program offered by the Patrick Dempsey Center
for Cancer Hope and Healing at Central Maine Medical Center, will be
presented on March 17.

The program, which is open to cancer patients, survivors and caregivers,
will explore how it's possible to transform reactions, improve health and
embrace peacefulness while under pressure.

Central Maine Medical Center wellness educator Marcy Covey will demonstrate
relaxation breathing, simple yoga and T’ai Chi, and offer tips on how to
change attitudes.

Covey is a wellness instructor at the CMMC Wellness Center, where she
teaches yoga and Fit ‘n Fun exercise classes for seniors. She also assists
with the Wellness for Life program for cancer patients and survivors,
teaching yoga and other wellness modalities.

Covey owns Dragonfly Healing Touch, a Thai Yoga Bodywork studio in Poland.
She recently finished four years of training with renowned Thai Yoga healing
arts instructor Jonas Westring. She has also studied Thai Yoga massage with
Kam Thye Chow of the Lotus Palm School of Massage in Montreal and has
attained certification in Pre-Natal Thai Yoga Bodywork through the Palm
School.

The presentation will be held 1:30 p.m. to 3 p.m. in Conference Room I on
the lower level of the 12 High Street Medical Office Building, adjacent to
Central Maine Medical Center.

Pre-registration is required; call 795-8250 or 1-877-DEMPCTR.

03/13/2009

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Letting Go of the Hard Stuff

March 24th program

Often we hang on to things – beliefs, habits, relationships, situations –
when it would be better for our health to let them go. Learn how at "Letting
Go of the Hard Stuff,” a free presentation offered at the Patrick Dempsey
Center for Cancer Hope and Healing at Central Maine Medical Center March 24.
The program is open to cancer patients, survivors and caregivers.

Central Maine Medical Center wellness educator Marcy Covey will share tips
for identifying when changes need to happen and ways to communicate
honestly, directly and appropriately with others during those times.

Covey is a wellness instructor at the CMMC Wellness Center, where she
teaches yoga and Fit ‘n Fun exercise classes for seniors. She also assists
with the Wellness for Life program for cancer patients and survivors,
teaching yoga and other wellness modalities.

Covey owns Dragonfly Healing Touch, a Thai Yoga Bodywork studio in Poland.
She recently finished four years of training with renowned Thai Yoga healing
arts instructor Jonas Westring. She has also studied Thai Yoga massage with
Kam Thye Chow of the Lotus Palm School of Massage in Montreal and has
attained certification in Pre-Natal Thai Yoga Bodywork through the Palm
School.

The presentation will be held 1:30 p.m. to 3 p.m. in Conference Room I on
the lower level of the 12 High Street Medical Office Building, adjacent to
Central Maine Medical Center.

Pre-registration is required; call 795-8250 or 1-877-DEMPCTR.

03/13/2009

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March 18 mini-med program

“Chronic Disease: The Challenge In Maine” will be the third installment of a
five-part “Mini-Medical School” educational series being offered by Central
Maine Medical Center and the Central Maine Heart and Vascular Institute on
March 18.

Debra Wigand from the Maine Center for Disease Control and Maine Department
of Health and Human Services will discuss the impact of chronic disease in
Maine and what can be done about it.

Wigand provides leadership for a team approach to chronic disease, working
with the asthma, comprehensive cancer, cardiovascular, and diabetes
prevention and control programs, and facilitates an integrated approach to
strategically address chronic disease.

She served as program manager for the Maine CDC’s Cardiovascular Health
Program from 2001 to 2008 and is a past chairperson of the National Chronic
Disease Directors, Cardiovascular Health Council. She received a master’s
of education degree in health education from Rhode Island College, in
Providence, R.I., and has earned a certified health education specialist
(CHES) designation. In 2007, she was recognized with the Maine
Cardiovascular Health Council’s Larry Johnson Memorial Award for Leadership.

She will make her presentation on March 18 from 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. in
Pettingill Hall, Room G52, at Bates College in Lewiston.

Open to the community, the series explores a variety of topics, often
providing information about the latest breakthroughs and debates in medical
science. A background in science or medicine is not necessary to attend the
programs.

The remaining sessions include:

March 25 – “Obesity Epidemic … What Can We Do?” with registered dietitian
Corinne Carrier from Central Maine Bariatric Surgery.

April 1 – “If I Crack My Knuckles Will I Get Arthritis?” with
rheumatologist Aaron Jackson, M.D.

Anyone wishing to register for any of the programs, or seeking more
information, is urged to call 795-8240 or email prevention@cmhc.org

03/13/2009

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Color therapy March 19

Presented by Dempsy Center

“Crayon Color Therapy” will be the subject of a program set for 1:30 p.m. to
3 p.m. on March 19 at Rumford Hospital.

Carleen Dupuis will lead a fun session on how the subconscious can
communicate through spontaneous drawing. The technique, which requires only
a box of crayons and an open mind, was developed in the 1960s by Dr. Bernie
Siegel who explored how colors and shapes can impact physical, emotional and
spiritual well-being.

This program is free for cancer patients, survivors and caregivers.

Those interested in attending are urged to preregister by calling The
Patrick Dempsey Center for Cancer Hope and Healing at 795-8250 or
1-877-336-7287.

03/13/2009

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Area wellness van visits

The Central Maine Heart and Vascular Institute Wellness Van will visit the
following locations in March:

March 4 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Oxford Wal-Mart.

March 11 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Augusta Wal-Mart.

March 18 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Rumford Hannaford.

March 25 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Gray Marketplace, Route 100, Gray.

During the van’s stops at these locations, two CMHVI health counselors will
provide blood pressure checks, osteoporosis screenings, and cholesterol
screenings. (There will be a $10 fee for a cholesterol screening.)

Advance appointments are not necessary. Anyone interested in more
information about CMMC Wellness Van services is urged to call 795-8240 or
email prevention@cmhc.org

03/13/2009

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Nurse earns national certification

Crystal Buchanan, clinical coordinator with Central Maine Bariatric Surgery, has earned national certification in her nursing specialty.

Buchanan has been designated a certified bariatric nurse by the American
Society of Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery, an organization dedicated to
improving public health and well being by lessening the burden of the
disease of obesity and related diseases. To gain certification, she passed
an examination testing her knowledge in all aspects of bariatric nursing.
The certification will remain in effect for four years.

She received an associate degree in nursing from the Central Maine Medical
Center School of Nursing in Lewiston, and graduated magna cum laude with a
bachelor�s degree in nursing from the University of Southern Maine in
Portland. She earned a master�s degree in nursing in the Family Nurse
Practitioner Tract at the University of Southern Maine.

She is a certified by the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners and a
member of the American Society of Bariatric and Metabolic Surgery, the
National Association of Bariatric Nurses, the American Academy of Nurse
Practitioners, the Maine Nurse Practitioner association, and Sigma Theta Tau
International nursing honor society.

As clinical coordinator for Central Maine Bariatric Surgery, she is
responsible for the coordination of care for the bariatric surgery patients
and overseeing the daily operations of the program.

Central Maine Bariatric Surgery, a clinical department of Central Maine
Medical Center, is a Lewiston-based surgical practice that specializes in
the care of individuals suffering from morbid obesity with a combination of
leading-edge surgical techniques and lifestyle changes. The practice is
located at 10 High Street, Suite 105, in Lewiston. The office can be reached
at 795-5710.

03/13/2009

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Meditation techniques make a difference

Free Program March 31

Meditation can be a wonderful tool in making our lives more peaceful,
gentle, manageable and kind. Learn some meditation techniques that can make
a real difference in your life at a free program at the Patrick Dempsey
Center for Cancer Hope and Healing at Central Maine Medical Center March 31.
The program is open to cancer patients, survivors and caregivers.

Central Maine Medical Center Wellness Center educator Marcy Covey will
discuss and demonstrate meditation skills.

Covey teaches yoga and other wellness modalities in the Wellness Center’s
Wellness for Life program for cancer patients and survivors. She also
teaches yoga and Fit ‘n Fun exercise classes for seniors.

Covey owns Dragonfly Healing Touch, a Thai Yoga Bodywork studio in Poland.
She recently finished four years of training with renowned Thai Yoga healing
arts instructor Jonas Westring. She has also studied Thai Yoga massage with
Kam Thye Chow of the Lotus Palm School of Massage in Montreal and has
attained certification in Pre-Natal Thai Yoga Bodywork through the Palm
School.

The presentation will be held 1:30 p.m. to 3 p.m. in Conference Room I on
the lower level of the 12 High Street Medical Office Building, adjacent to
Central Maine Medical Center.

Pre-registration is required; call 795-8250 or 1-877-DEMPCTR.

03/12/2009

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Dempsey Center February 18 Program

“Eating Well for Optimal Health During Cancer Treatment and Beyond”

“Eating Well for Optimal Health During Cancer Treatment and Beyond” is the
focus of a workshop for cancer patients, survivors and caregivers to be held
at the Patrick Dempsey Center for Cancer Hope and Healing at Central Maine
Medical Center February 18.

The workshop, led by oncology dietitian Jill Young, is about the health
benefits that good nutrition provides individuals going through cancer
treatment or who have been through treatment. For some cancer patients,
surgery, radiation and/or chemotherapy may present challenges when it comes
to eating well. Yet, good nourishment helps patients progress through
treatments with more energy and fewer infections. Good nutrition supports
the body’s immune system and healing abilities. Besides helping with healing
and recovery, a healthy diet may prevent other health problems from
occurring.

Young will present information about various diets, including the
Mediterranean diet, vegetarianism and the USDA food pyramid. She will also
answer questions about nutritional needs during treatment and recovery from
cancer.

Young, a registered dietitian and nutritionist, has an extensive background
in oncology nutrition. With over 20 years of experience, she has worked with
cancer patients in the Washington, D.C. area, the Veterans Administration
Hospital in Togus, and at CMMC. She also has experience working with
patients concerned with health issues such as diabetes, eating disorders,
weight management and weight loss.


The workshop is free and will be held from 1:30 p.m. to 3 p.m. in Conference
Room I on the lower level of the 12 High Street Medical Office Building,
adjacent to Central Maine Medical Center.

For more information or to pre-register, call 795-8250 or 1-877-DEMPCTR.

02/16/2009

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Light One Little Candle

Program Now at Dempsey Center

The Light One Little Candle Foundation, a non-profit organization that
promotes reading for parents and caregivers with cancer as a way to connect
with their children, is teaming up with The Patrick Dempsey Center for
Cancer Hope and Healing at Central Maine Medical Center in February.

“We are so pleased to bring The Dempsey Center into our growing family of
hospitals and cancer organizations and we look forward to helping caregivers
and children in Maine bond through books,” said Lee Rosenberg, executive
director and president of Light One Little Candle.

“We anticipate being able to serve approximately 300 to 400 families per
year in the central and western Maine region alone. Supporting children and
families who have been affected by a parent or grandparent’s cancer is an
important part of our work here in the Dempsey Center, and we are very
pleased to partner with Light One Little Candle in this endeavor,” noted
Kerry Irish, program director of The Patrick Dempsey Center for Cancer Hope
and Healing.

The collaboration between The Patrick Dempsey Center and the Foundation
allows the hospital to distribute new children's books to these patients
living with cancer. Patients will choose books from the Light One Little
Candle collection to bring home to their families and use them to create
lasting memories with their children. The book is theirs to keep.

Patients are encouraged to write notes about the story or the experience of
reading together on a special Light One Little Candle bookplate already
pasted into the book, creating a keepsake for their children to turn to
again and again. Children’s classics, including “Goodnight Moon”,
“Charlotte’s Web”, “Where the Wild Things Are” and “Madeline”, as well as
numerous other storybooks, are available. Some children’s books are offered
in foreign languages such as Somali, Arabic, Italian and Spanish.

“When I heard about Light One Little Candle’s mission I immediately thought
what a great fit it is for us. We welcome the program and the role that it
will play in our continued dedication to offering high-quality support
services to families touched by cancer,” said Patrick Dempsey.

The Light One Little Candle program at the Patrick Dempsey Center for Cancer
Hope and Healing officially began today.


About The Patrick Dempsey Center for Cancer Hope and Healing at Central
Maine Medical Center

The Patrick Dempsey Center (Lewiston, ME) is an integral part of cancer care
at The Central Maine Comprehensive Cancer Center and affiliated cancer
clinics at Bridgton and Rumford hospitals. Located on the CMMC campus, the
center, which opened in March 2008, is dedicated to providing high-quality
education, support and wellness services to patients, families and
caretakers touched by cancer. The Patrick Dempsey Center for Cancer Hope and
Healing's warm, inviting environment includes a cancer resource library
replete with a dedicated computer station for patient/public use that allows
internet access to virtual cancer resources as well as an integrative
medicine treatment room and dedicated space for cancer support group
meetings and educational programs.

For more information, please contact Kerry Irish, Program Director (e-mail:
irishke@cmmc.org, phone: 207-795-7118) or go to www.dempseycenter.org


About Light One Little Candle

The Light One Little Candle Foundation was created by Dr. Joelle Pauporte, a
young mother and psychiatrist dying of breast cancer. During the course of
her illness, she discovered that no matter how sick, exhausted or
overwhelmed she felt, she and her daughter could find comfort sitting
together and reading. In partnership with hospitals and cancer care centers,
Light One Little Candle provides new children’s books to those patients
undergoing treatment. Additionally, the books come with special bookplates
for patients to write notes and memories that their children will treasure.

Including the new Dempsey Center program, there are ten Light One Little
Candle Programs distributing 20 to 50 books a month per facility. The
program is currently available at Hartford Hospital in Hartford, Conn.,
MidState Medical Center in Meriden, Conn., Middlesex Hospital in Middletown,
Conn, Lawrence and Memorial Hospital in New London, Conn., Memorial
Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center and CancerCare in New York City, the
Dana-Farber/Brigham and Women’s Cancer Center and Massachusetts General
Hospital in Boston, and the Moores UCSD Cancer Center in La Jolla, Calif.

For more information or to make a donation, please visit our website at
www.lightonelittlecandle.org or contact Lee Rosenberg, executive director
and president (e-mail: lee@lightonelittlecandle.org, phone 516-767-8787).

02/16/2009

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Mini-Medical School Series

"Healthy Eating, Healthy Lifestyle to Prevent Chronic Disease"

"Healthy Eating, Healthy Lifestyle to Prevent Chronic Disease" is the topic
of the next installment of a Mini-Medical School series being offered in
Topsham by Central Maine Medical Center and the Central Maine Heart and
Vascular Institute.

Timothy Howe, M.D., medical director of wellness and diabetes education at
Parkview Adventist Medical Center in Brunswick, will discuss how diet and
lifestyle can be used to prevent long-term health problems.

An internal medicine specialist who practices in Brunswick, Howe earned his
medical degree from Loma Linda University School of Medicine in Loma Linda,
Calif. He is certified by the American Board of Internal Medicine.

He will make his presentation on February 11 from 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. at
Topsham Family Medicine, 4 Horton Place, Topsham.

The program is free and open to the public.

Remaining Mini-Medical School sessions are:

February 18 Time Is Muscle Saving Your Heart with William Phillips,
M.D., medical director of cardiology at the Central Maine Heart and Vascular
Institute.

February 25 Bone Health with Cynthia Dechenes, M.D., Topsham Family
Medicine.

March 4 Maintain Your Brain: How to Live a Brain Healthy Lifestyle with
Liz Weaver, program director for the Maine Alzheimers Association.

The Mini-Medical School series explores a variety of topics, providing
information about the latest breakthroughs and debates in medical science
and how these issues might relate to individual health concerns. A
background in science or medicine is not necessary to attend the programs.

Anyone wishing to register for any of the programs, or seeking more
information, is urged to call 798-6227 or email prevention@cmhc.org

02/16/2009

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Daniel R. Lalonde, M.D.

Expanding Interventional Pain Management to Midcoast Area

The Central Maine Medical Family is proud to announce that Dr. Daniel R. Lalonde will be extending his expertise in Interventional Pain Management and Headache to the Mid-Coast area. He will begin seeing patients at the Topsham Medical Building beginning February 14, 2009.

Dr. Lalonde grew up in central Maine and graduated from Bates College with a B.S. in Chemistry. He earned his Medical degree from the University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio and then went on to complete a 4 year residency in Neurology.

Dr. Lalonde acted as the Medical Director of a 15 bed inpatient Rehabilitation Unit, where he gained a strong interest in headache and pain management. He went on to pursue a postgraduate Pain Management Fellowship in the Department of Anesthesiology at Henry Ford Hospital in Detroit, Michigan. This fellowship program offered an intensive and comprehensive training program in the multidisciplinary evaluation and management of acute and chronic pain.

Dr. Lalonde’s areas of special interest include chronic pain following back and neck surgery, radiculopathy, abdominal and chest wall pain syndromes, painful neuropathy, reflex sympathetic dystrophy (RSD) and others. With this training and experience in Neurology, he also has a strong interest in the evaluation and management of complex head and facial pain syndromes and performs both NCV and EMG testing.

Dr. Lalonde will be offering fluoroscopic x-ray guided procedures such as epidural steroid injections, facet joint injections and spinal nerve blocks, as well as more advanced interventions including celiac plexus blocks, trigeminal nerve blocks, radiofrequency thermocoagulation (rhizotomy) of spinal and most peripheral nerves.

Please call our Auburn office at 207-795-2927 to schedule an appointment.

02/16/2009

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Mini-Medical School Series

'Time is Muscle Saving Your Heart'

"Time Is Muscle Saving Your Heart" is the topic of the next installment of
a Mini-Medical School series being offered in Topsham by Central Maine
Medical Center and the Central Maine Heart and Vascular Institute.

William Phillips, M.D., medical director of cardiology at the Central Maine
Heart and Vascular Institute, will discuss the importance of seeking timely
emergency care when experiencing symptoms of a heart attack.

A founding member of the CMHVI Medical Staff, Phillips has extensive
experience in diagnostic and interventional cardiology, including cardiac
catheterization, coronary angioplasty, stenting, pacemaker implantation and
other invasive and non-invasive procedures.

He completed fellowship training in cardiology at St. Luke's-Roosevelt
Hospital Center in New York City, and is certified in internal medicine,
cardiovascular disease and interventional cardiology by the American Board
of Internal Medicine. He is a fellow of the American College of Cardiology
and Society of Cardiac Angiography and Interventions, and a member of the
North American Society of Pacing and Electrophysiology, Physicians for
Social Responsibility, and the American Medical Association.

He has been involved in many clinical research programs and has coauthored
numerous articles that have been published in professional medical journals,
including Circulation, American Heart Journal, and Interventional
Cardiology.

He will make his presentation on February 18 from 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. at
Topsham Family Medicine, 4 Horton Place, Topsham.

The program is free and open to the public.

Remaining Mini-Medical School sessions are:

February 25 Bone Health with Cynthia Dechenes, M.D., Topsham Family
Medicine.

March 4 Maintain Your Brain: How to Live a Brain Healthy Lifestyle with
Liz Weaver, program director for the Maine Alzheimers Association.

March 11 Obesity and Bariatric Surgery with Jamie Loggins, M.D., medical
director, Central Maine Bariatric Surgery, Lewiston.

The Mini-Medical School series explores a variety of topics, providing
information about the latest breakthroughs and debates in medical science
and how these issues might relate to individual health concerns. A
background in science or medicine is not necessary to attend the programs.

Anyone wishing to register for any of the programs, or seeking more
information, is urged to call 798-6227 or email prevention@cmhc.org


02/16/2009

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CMMC's Wellness Solutions

Announces Programs Beginning February 23

Central Maine Medical Center’s Wellness Solutions is offering the following
programs beginning on February 23:

Ballroom Dancing: Advanced Beginner – This six-week series, led by Diane
Williams, will add new steps to participants’ foxtrot, waltz, and triple
swing repertoires. A beginner’s background in these three dances and a
workable knowledge of the basics is required. Come with a partner for fun
and exercise. Fridays from 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.

Fit-n-Fun – This entertaining exercise class is designed for the over-55
crowd and focuses on helping participants improve aerobic capacity,
strength, flexibility, balance, and coordination. Tuesdays and Thursdays
from 9:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m.

Flexible Body, Flexible Life – Bette Swett-Thibeault will lead this six-week
series that covers many forms of low-impact movement, from light aerobics to
stretching to circuit training, and includes training ball work for balance
and core strength training. Each class ends with 10 to 15 minute relaxation
response activity. Participants should wear loose clothing and exercise
shoes and bring a mat if they have one. Wednesdays from 5:30 p.m. to 6:30
p.m.

Functional Fitness – Learn to increase both core and upper body strength and
improve the stability of abdominal and low back muscles. Participants will
discover how to prevent injury due to improper body mechanics and repetitive
motion. Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays from noon to 12:30 p.m.

Happy Hearts – A class designed for people with a “cardiac event” history –
including angioplasty, stents, heart attack, cardiac arrest, valve surgery,
coronary artery bypass, stable angina, and transplants – who have completed
a cardiac rehabilitation program and are looking for a “maintenance”
program. The class includes general supervision and individual, independent
cardiovascular and strength training. It also incorporates group weight
training and self-safety skills. Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays at 8 a.m.,
9 a.m., 10:30 a.m. and 1 p.m.

Hypnotherapy For Weight Loss – Valerie St. Clair will lead this four-week
session. Topics will include exercise, diet improvement, food portions and
servings, benefits of fiber, stress reduction, understanding food labels,
reducing fat intake, tips on eating out and at special occasions, handling
cravings, and more. Wednesdays from 6:30 p.m. to 7:45 p.m.

Intermediate Bellydancing – Class instructor Imari (Lisa Cummings) has more
than 16 years experience teaching this unique cardiovascular exercise. This
six-week series is suitable for all ages and body types. Wednesdays from
7:15 p.m. to 8:15 p.m.

Personal Fitness – Begins with a one-on-one evaluation and program
development session with a personal health counselor, then progresses to a
structured group exercise plan. Tuesdays and Thursdays from 8 a.m. to 9
a.m., 9:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m., and 10:45 a.m. to 11:45 a.m.

Pilates – Joseph Pilate’s conditioning invention is designed to develop long
lean muscles and strength in the core of the body. All exercises are
performed on the floor with the use of a mat. Class participants will be
instructed on each exercise, including proper breathing and stretching.
Class will be led by Jodi Cornelio. Thursdays from 4:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m.

Power Plus – Jodi Cornelio will lead this class which encompasses weight
training exercises and simple “cardio moves” to elevate metabolism and burn
fat in every muscle group. The class closes with a gentle cool down with
yoga stretch. Proven to be nine times more effective than 45 minutes of
aerobic exercise, so results are noticeable within three to four weeks.
Tuesdays and Thursdays from 5:30 a.m. to 6:30 a.m.

Qigong For Health, Healing, and Stress Reduction – Qigong is an ancient
Chinese exercise art and integral part of traditional Chinese medicine that
is relaxing, stimulates all the major meridians, and gently exercises
muscles, ligaments, and tendons, while also focusing on breathing
techniques. Betsey Foster will lead this six-week series. Tuesdays from 5:15
p.m. to 6:15 p.m.

Step Aerobics – A heart-pumping, muscle-moving and grooving workout that
alternates step with muscle work using weights, tubing, etc. Led by Sue
Driscoll, this cardio workout is a head-to-toe body strengthener. Mondays,
Wednesdays and Fridays from 3:45 p.m. to 4:45 p.m.

Step and Kick – This high-energy class combines step dancing and kicking
with motivating and invigorating music. Class includes muscle group work and
stretching. Class will be led by Jodi Cornelio. Mondays from 6:15 p.m. to
7:15 p.m.

Tai Chi – Betsey Foster instructs these this six-week series in t’ai chi, an
ancient Chinese movement art that uses a sequence of precise body movements,
meditation, and synchronized breathing to improve health and well-being.
T’ai chi movements express the yin and yang components (opposites) that are
fundamental to Chinese medicine. T’ai chi has been shown to lower blood
pressure, improve balance, increase respiratory capacity, and benefit the
immune response. Open to all skill levels. Tuesdays from 6:30 p.m. to 7:30
p.m.

Yoga – This six-weeks series introduces participants to the world of
relaxation and rejuvenation through yoga. Focuses on centering and balance
through poses, breathing exercises, meditation, and relaxation. Tuesdays and
Thursdays from 4 p.m. to 5:30 pm or Tuesdays from 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m.
Instructor for the series will be Marcy Covey.

Youth Fit – This program educates young people about the importance of
fitness, wellness and nutrition, focusing on those who may be challenged in
maintaining or achieving their ideal weight and may be at risk for serious
health issues as they grow older. Goals will be discussed and health
assessments and evaluations will be performed on an individual basis prior
to the start of the program and throughout the session. This program
includes fitness activities. Parents or guardians are encouraged to
participate. Those seeking more information are urged to call 795-2905 and
speak with Jodi Cornelio. Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 10:45 a.m. or Thursdays
from 3:15 p.m. to 5 p.m. Start date is March 5.

Zumba – Zumba is a Latin-inspired dance exercise program that uses a variety
of basic dance styles set to international music such as merengue, salsa,
and reggaetone. Using principles of aerobic/fitness interval training and
resistance training, Zumba is great for burning calories (up to 500 per
class) while sculpting and toning the body. This six-week program is led by
Cynthia Nicholas. Mondays from 5 p.m. to 6 p.m. and/or Wednesdays from 9:30
a.m. to 10:30 a.m., and/or Saturdays from 10:15 a.m. to 11:15 a.m.

All programs are offered in the CMMC Health and Wellness Center, 12 High
Street Medical Office Building, Lewiston.

Fees are assessed for participation in these programs and must be paid prior
to beginning the program. Class registration is on a first-come,
first-served basis.

Call 795-2473 to register or to obtain more information. Information also
available through the Events Calendar at www.cmmc.org

02/16/2009

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Heart to Heart Conference

Presented by CMHVI and CMMC on February 28

The Central Maine Medical Family and the Central Maine Heart and Vascular
Institute will host the 9th Annual “A Heart to Heart” Heart Disease
Conference on February 28.

Keynote speaker for the event will be Brooke S. Ritvo, M.D., a CMHVI
cardiologist who specializes in electrophysiology. She will discuss “STEMI
in Women.”

STEMI, or segment elevation myocardial infarction, is the clinical term for
a heart attack caused by a prolonged blockage of the blood supply to the
heart. It affects a large area of the heart muscle and causes changes in
both the heart’s electrical function and in blood levels of various chemical
markers. As an electrophysiologist, Ritvo diagnoses and treats patients with
cardiac problems involving electrical dysfunction.

Accompanying Ritvo will be Rita Zanichkowsky, state health alliances
director for the American Heart Association/American Stroke Association.

Zanichkowsky, a two-time heart attack survivor, will share a brief version
of the story of her battle with heart disease. She will also show “Wisdom
Gained From the Heart”, an 11-minute video that tells the compelling stories
of Maine women surviving and living with cardiovascular disease. The video
is hosted by WGME Channel 13 news anchor Kim Block. The video features
expert information on the signs and symptoms of heart attack and stroke and
the major risk factors for cardiovascular disease.

Following the keynote address Jodi Cornelio, a nutritionist and personal
trainer at Central Maine Medical Center, will present a 30-minute “Core
Strengthening” demonstration. Core strengthening involves exercises that
target the center of the body, including the abdominal and oblique areas,
“stomach and waistline ” and the back. Anyone expecting to participate in
these “mild exercises” is urged to wear loose clothing with no belt buckles.
The exercises will be performed on a mat.

Also featured will be a panel discussion on nutrition featuring Cornelio,
integrative medicine specialist Erica Lovett, M.D., and cosmetologist
Carlene Sperry. The panel will discuss “Taking Care Of The Whole Self: The
Importance Of Self Care, Nutrition, Water, And Feeling Good About Yourself.”

Cornelio will close the day’s program with a demonstration on energy density
of foods and portion control.

Keynote speaker Brooke Ritvo joined CMHVI last year after practicing for six
years as an electrophysiologist with Arrhythmia and Pacemaker Consultants in
West Orange, N.J.

She is a graduate of Wesleyan University in Middletown, Conn., she earned
her medical degree from Albert Einstein College of Medicine in Bronx, N.Y.
She completed an internship and residency at Columbia Presbyterian Medical
Center in New York City. She served a fellowship in cardiovascular disease
and a fellowship in electrophysiology at New York Presbyterian
Hospital-Columbia Presbyterian Medical Center in New York City. She also
served an electrophysiology fellowship at Montefiore Medical Center-Albert
Einstein College of Medicine in Bronx, N.Y.

Ritvo is certified in cardiovascular disease by the American Board of
Internal Medicine. She is an affiliate-in-training of the American College
of Cardiology.

Rita Zanichkowsky works closely with several Maine organizations to help
improve the treatment and outcomes for heart attack and stroke patients. She
serves as chair of the Maine Cardiovascular Health Council and is a member
of several other organizations concerned with cardiovascular health and
other health issues, including the Northeast Cerebrovascular Consortium, the
Chronic Disease Partners of Maine, Stroke Care in ME and Stop Stroke in ME.
She has been a long-time American Heart Association advocate through public
speaking, lobbying, fund raising and event planning.

Prior to beginning her work as state health alliances director for the
American Heart Association, she was project director for the Aligning Forces
4 Quality grant, and worked closely with Quality Counts, The Maine Health
Management Coalition, and Maine Quality Forum. Her healthcare-related
professional experience includes work with Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield.

Jodi Cornelio has been offering nutrition and personal training consultative
services for over 15 years. Prior to joining CMMC last year, she operated
her own wellness center where she and her staff coached, counseled and
trained a large client base.

She earned her undergraduate degree in nutrition from the University of
Maine at Farmington and her master’s degree in business administration from
Thomas College in Waterville. She is certified as a personal trainer through
the American Council on Exercise and in holistic health practices, Hatha
Yoga and Pilates through the International Sports Medicine Association.

Erica Lovett is a family physician who specializes in integrative medicine.
She is a member of the faculty at the CMMC Family Medicine residency in
Lewiston.

Lovett was awarded a bachelor’s degree from the University of Colorado in
Boulder, Colo., and earned her medical degree at Oregon Health Sciences
University in Portland, Ore. She completed residency training at Maine
Medical Center in Portland, where she also completed an integrative family
medicine fellowship. She is certified by the American Board of Family
Medicine.

Carlene Sperry. a licensed cosmetologist, is a volunteer for the American
Cancer Society’s Look Good . . . Feel Better and Out Reach programs. She
is a member of the Central Maine Medical Center Sam and Jennie Bennett
Breast Care Center and WCSH-TV Buddy to Buddy Spring Fashion Show Committee.


The event will be held in the Chairmen’s Room on the ground floor of the 12
High Street Medical Office Building beginning at 8:30 a.m. The program will
be telecast to Bridgton and Rumford hospitals. The event is open to both men
and women. There is no charge for participation.

Participation in the day’s event at CMMC will be limited to the first 100
registrants. To register for the Bridgton Hospital program, call 647-6055.
Those interested in attending the Rumford Hospital program should call
369-1143.

For more information about this event, or to register, call 795-8240.
Registrations can also be made via email at prevention@cmhc.org
or directly online through the Events Calendar
at www.cmmc.org

02/05/2009

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Jennifer S. Pyenta, D.O.

Joins Central Maine Internal Medicine

Jennifer S. Pyenta, D.O., an internal medicine specialist, has been
appointed to the Central Maine Medical Center Medical Staff. She is
practicing in association with Central Maine Internal Medicine, a clinical
department of Central Maine Medical Center.

Before joining the Lewiston-Auburn medical community, Pyenta practiced for
three years with Motor City Internists in Detroit. In addition, she worked
with St. John Health System in Detroit and was an associate at Macomb
Academic Medical Group in Warren, Mich., where she was responsible for
training internal medicine residents, interns and students.

A graduate of the University of Richmond in Richmond, Va., she earned her
doctor of osteopathic medicine degree at Des Moines University-Osteopathic
Medicine in Des Moines, Iowa. She completed an internship and residency in
internal medicine at St. John Detroit Riverview Hospital in Detroit, where
she was recognized as a Richard Pokriefka, D.O., Distinguished Internal
Medicine Resident.

She has worked as a medical educator at St. John Health-Osteopathic Division
of Medical Education in Detroit, A.T. Still University-Kirksville College of
Osteopathic Medicine in Kirksville, Mo., and Western University of Health
Sciences-College of Osteopathic Medicine of the Pacific, Pomona, Calif.

She is a fellow of the American College of Osteopathic Internists and a
member of the American Osteopathic Association. She is certified by the
American Osteopathic Board of Internal Medicine.

She lives in Auburn with her husband, Matthew Pyenta, D.O., a nephrologist
who practices with Nephrology Associates of Central Maine in Lewiston.

Central Maine Internal Medicine serves patients from office facilities at 12
High Street, Suite 400, in Lewiston. Also comprising the practice are Oscar
S. Cabatingan, M.D., Lise M. Cloutier, M.D., Eugene J. Ferguson, M.D., Neera
Gupta, M.D., James G. Joseph, M.D., William M. Lee, M.D., Pamela E. Ross,
M.D., and adult nurse practitioners Deana C. Albert and Mary Ellen Davis.
The office can be reached at 795-5700.

02/05/2009

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American Heart Month Message for the Day

To ensure good heart health - choose baked not fried. To learn more about cardiovascular health and women, visit www.goredforwomen.org

02/01/2009

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"Mini-Medical School" Second Installment

Speaker: Peter Sedgwick, M.D.


Peter Sedgwick, M.D.
“From Lance Armstrong to Aunt Martha: What Are The Benefits and Risks of
Taking Non-Prescription ‘Medical’ Supplements?’” is the topic of the second
installment of a “Mini-Medical School” series being offered by Central Maine
Medical Center and the Central Maine Heart and Vascular Institute at Topsham
Family Medicine.

“From steroid scandals among professional athletes to glucosamine tablets
taken by millions of people every day, everyone is out to increase their
performance and decrease their injury and pain. But what is the
effectiveness and safety of these products?” says Peter Sedgwick, M.D., of
Central Maine Sports Medicine.

Prior to beginning his work in the Lewiston-Auburn area, Sedgwick completed
a sports medicine fellowship at Maine Medical Center in Portland. He also
completed his family medicine residency training at Maine Medical Center.

A graduate of Williams College in Williamstown, Mass., Sedgwick earned a
master’s degree from the University of South Florida in Tampa, Fla. He
completed a one-year pre-medicine curriculum at Harvard Extension School in
Cambridge, Mass., and was awarded his medical degree from the University of
Massachusetts Medical School in Worcester, Mass.

His experience in sports medicine includes service as assistant medical
director of the 2006 and 2007 Maine Marathon in Portland and as team
physician at Bonny Eagle High School and St. Joseph’s College, both in
Standish. He has worked as part of the Portland Pirates medical team, and
has interest and experience in wilderness medicine. He has worked as a
researcher and educator in a variety of capacities.

He is a member of the American Medical Society for Sports Medicine, American
College of Sports Medicine, American Association of Family Practice, and the
American Medical Association.

He will make his presentation on February 4 from 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. at
Topsham Family Medicine, 4 Horton Place, Topsham.

The program is free and open to the public.

Remaining Mini-Medical School sessions are:

February 11 -- “Healthy Eating, Healthy Lifestyle” with Tim Howe, M.D.,
medical director of both wellness and diabetes education at Parkview
Adventist Medical Center in Brunswick.

February 18 – “Time Is Muscle …Saving Your Heart” with William Phillips,
M.D., medical director of cardiology at the Central Maine Heart and Vascular
Institute.

February 25 – “Bone Health” with Cynthia Dechenes, M.D., Topsham Family
Medicine.

March 4 – “Maintain Your Brain: How to Live a Brain Healthy Lifestyle” with
Liz Weaver, program director for the Maine Alzheimer’s Association.

The Mini-Medical School series explores a variety of topics, providing
information about the latest breakthroughs and debates in medical science
and how these issues might relate to individual health concerns. A
background in science or medicine is not necessary to attend the programs.

Anyone wishing to register for any of the programs, or seeking more
information, is urged to call 798-6227 or email prevention@cmhc.org

01/29/2009

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CMMC's Wellness Solutions

List Offerings Beginning on January 5

Central Maine Medical Center’s Wellness Solutions is offering the following
programs beginning on January 5:

Ballroom: Advanced Beginner – This six-week series, led by Diane Williams,
will add new steps to participants’ foxtrot, waltz, and triple swing
repertoires. A beginner’s background in these three dances and a workable
knowledge of the basics is required. Come with a partner for fun and
exercise. Fridays from 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.

Beginner Bellydancing – Class instructor Imari (Lisa Cummings) has more than
16 years experience teaching this unique cardiovascular exercise. This
six-week series is suitable for all ages and body types. Wednesdays from
7:15 p.m. to 8:15 p.m.

Fit-n-Fun – This entertaining exercise class is designed for the over-55
crowd and focuses on helping participants improve aerobic capacity,
strength, flexibility, balance, and coordination. Tuesdays and Thursdays
from 9:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m.

Flexible Body, Flexible Life – Bette Swett-Thibeault will lead this six-week
series that covers many forms of low-impact movement, from light aerobics to
stretching to circuit training, and includes training ball work for balance
and core strength training. Each class ends with 10 to 15 minute relaxation
response activity. Participants should wear loose clothing and exercise
shoes and bring a mat if they have one. Wednesdays from 5:30 p.m. to 6:30
p.m. or Fridays from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m.

Functional Fitness – Learn to increase both core and upper body strength and
improve the stability of abdominal and low back muscles. Participants will
discover how to prevent injury due to improper body mechanics and repetitive
motion. Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays from noon to 12:30 p.m.

Happy Hearts – A class designed for people with a “cardiac event” history –
including angioplasty, stents, heart attack, cardiac arrest, valve surgery,
coronary artery bypass, stable angina, and transplants – who have completed
a cardiac rehabilitation program and are looking for a “maintenance”
program. The class includes general supervision and individual, independent
cardiovascular and strength training. It also incorporates group weight
training and self-safety skills. Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays at 8 a.m.,
9 a.m., 10:30 a.m. and 1 p.m.

Hip Hop – This high-energy dance class, led by Amber Wandell, provides a
great workout. Hip-Hop encompasses stepping, sliding, popping, locking, and
freestyle movements to give participants the moves to develop their own
dance style. Participants will learn the basics of hip-hop while dancing to
the latest sounds. Students will be able to perform a full routine at end of
the six-week class. No dance background needed. Wear comfortable shoes and
clothing, and bring water. Thursdays from 6:15 p.m. to 7:15 p.m.

Introduction To Karate-Do (Empty Hand Way) –John Jenkins, who has years of
international martial arts experience teaches this six-week series designed
to introduce participants to this practical classic training of body, mind
and spirit. The class will provide an appreciation for Japanese cultural
arts, an introduction to relaxation breathing, muscle toning, flexibility,
and will include focus and timing drills. All classes are age and ability
appropriate, fun and interactive. Wear loose-fitting clothing. Classes for
elementary and middle school age youngsters are Saturdays from 9 a.m. to
9:50 a.m. (Parent can attend with their children.) Adult classes (high
school age and up) are Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 10:50 a.m.

Personal Fitness – Begins with a one-on-one evaluation and program
development session with a personal health counselor, then progresses to a
structured group exercise plan. Tuesdays and Thursdays from 8 a.m. to 9
a.m., 9:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m., and 10:45 a.m. to 11:45 a.m.

Pilates – Joseph Pilate’s conditioning invention is designed to develop long
lean muscles and strength in the core of the body. All exercises are
performed on the floor with the use of a mat. Class participants will be
instructed on each exercise, including proper breathing and stretching.
Class will be led by Jodi Cornelio. Thursdays from 5 p.m. to 6 p.m.

Power Plus – Jodi Cornelio will lead this class which encompasses weight
training exercises and simple “cardio moves” to elevate metabolism and burn
fat in every muscle group. The class closes with a gentle cool down with
yoga stretch. Proven to be nine times more effective than 45 minutes of
aerobic exercise, so results are noticeable within three to four weeks.
Tuesdays and Thursdays from 5:30 a.m. to 6:30 a.m.

Step Aerobics – A heart-pumping, muscle-moving and grooving workout that
alternates step with muscle work using weights, tubing, etc. Led by Sue
Driscoll, this cardio workout is a head-to-toe body strengthener. Mondays,
Wednesdays and Fridays from 3:45 p.m. to 4:45 p.m.

Step and Kick – This 45-minute high-energy class incorporates step dancing
and kicking with motivating and invigorating music. Class includes muscle
group work and stretching. Led by Jodi Cornelio. Mondays from 6:15 p.m. to
7:15 p.m.

Tai Chi, Qigong and Listening Hands – Betsey Foster instructs these two
series in t’ai chi, an ancient Chinese movement art that uses a sequence of
precise body movements, meditation, and synchronized breathing to improve
health and well-being. T’ai chi movements express the yin and yang
components (opposites) that are fundamental to Chinese medicine. T’ai chi
has been shown to lower blood pressure, improve balance, increase
respiratory capacity, and benefit the immune response. The introductory
class will focus on short 14-posture yang t’ai chi form. It will be
presented on Tuesdays from 6:30 p.m. to 7:45 p.m. T’ai Chi, Qigong and
Listening Hands, a 12-week program, is for the person that has previous t’ai
chi experience. It will be offered on Tuesdays from 5:15 p.m. to 6:15 p.m.

Yoga – This six-weeks series introduces participants to the world of
relaxation and rejuvenation through yoga. Focuses on centering and balance
through poses, breathing exercises, meditation, and relaxation. Tuesdays and
Thursdays from 4 p.m. to 5:30 pm or Tuesdays from 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m.
Instructor for the series will be Marcy Covey.

Zumba – This six-week program with Cynthia Nicholas fuses international
music with a dance theme to create a dynamic fitness system. It employs
principles of aerobic and fitness interval training and resistance training
to maximize caloric output, fat burning, and total body toning. Participate
once or twice weekly. Mondays from 5 p.m. to 6 p.m. and/or Wednesdays from
9:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m.

All programs are offered in the CMMC Health and Wellness Center, 12 High
Street Medical Office Building, Lewiston.

Fees are assessed for participation in these programs and must be paid prior
to beginning the program. Class registration is on a first-come,
first-served basis.

Call 795-2473 to register or to obtain more information. Information also
available through the Events Calendar at www.cmmc.org


01/22/2009

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Six-Part “Mini-Medical School”

Educational Series Begins January 28


Jamie Loggins, M.D.
Central Maine Medical Center and the Central Maine Heart and Vascular
Institute will sponsor a six-part “Mini-Medical School” educational series
in Topsham beginning January 28.

The series is open to the community and will explore a variety of topics,providing information about the latest breakthroughs and debates in medical science and how these issues might relate to individual health concerns. A
background in science or medicine is not necessary to attend the programs.

The series will begin on January 28 with “Obesity and Bariatric Surgery”
with Jamie Loggins, M.D., medical director, Central Maine Bariatric Surgery,
Lewiston. He will examine the health problems associated with obesity and
how bariatric surgery coupled with lifestyle education offers a solution for
some people.

A general surgeon who specializes in bariatric surgery, Loggins completed a
fellowship in minimally invasive and robotic surgery at the University of
California Davis Medical Center in Sacramento, Calif. A graduate of Illinois
Wesleyan University in Bloomington, Ill., he earned his medical degree at
Northwestern University Medical School in Chicago. After his graduation from
medical school, Loggins served in the U.S. Army, first as a surgical intern
at Tripler Army Medical Center in Honolulu, and later as troop medical
clinic officer in charge at Fort Carson, Colo. He completed surgical
residency training at The Marshfield Clinic-St. Joseph’s Hospital in
Marshfield, Wis. He is certified by the American Board of Surgery.

He will make his presentation on January 28 from 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. at
Topsham Family Medicine, 4 Horton Place, Topsham.

The program is free and open to the public.

Anyone wishing to register for the program, or seeking more information, is
urged to call 795-8240 or email prevention@cmhc.org


The remaining sessions include:

February 4 -- “From Lance Armstrong to Aunt Martha: What Are The Benefits
and Risks of Taking Non-Prescription ‘Medical’ Supplements?” with Peter
Sedgwick, M.D., Central Maine Sports Medicine.

February 11 -- “Healthy Eating, Healthy Lifestyle” with Tim Howe, M.D.,
medical director of both wellness and diabetes education at Parkview
Adventist Medical Center in Brunswick.

February 18 – “Time Is Muscle …Saving Your Heart” with William Phillips,
M.D., medical director of cardiology at the Central Maine Heart and Vascular
Institute.

February 25 – “Bone Health” with Cynthia Dechenes, M.D., Topsham Family
Medicine.

March 4 – “Maintain Your Brain: How to Live a Brain Healthy Lifestyle” with
Liz Weaver, program director for the Maine Alzheimer’s Association.

Anyone wishing to register for any of the programs, or seeking more
information, is urged to call 798-6227 or email prevention@cmhc.org

01/22/2009

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Manage Your Natural Energy

A Workshop For Patients And Caregivers

“Manage Your Natural Energy: A Workshop For Patients And Caregivers” is the
topic of a Patrick Dempsey Center for Cancer Hope and Healing program being
offered on February 4.

Patricia C. Estes, an advanced polarity therapist who focuses on energetic
anatomy, therapeutic nutrition and holistic psychology, will present some
simple, fun and effective tools for stress reduction, management and
awareness.

Estes has worked in the complementary healthcare field for 20 years and has
taught energy awareness principles one-on-one as well as in international
forums. She says that “Managing Your Natural Energy” supports both active
and meditative lifestyles, and that participants should “wear comfortable
clothes”.

The program will be offered free of charge from 1:30 p.m. to 3 p.m. in
Conference Room I on the lower level of the 12 High Street Medical Office
Building, adjacent to Central Maine Medical Center.

The program is free and open to cancer patients, survivors, and caregivers.

Anyone with questions or wishing to pre-register should call 795-8250 or
1-877-DEMPCTR.


01/22/2009

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Finding Reliable Cancer Information

A Program for Patients and Caregivers

“Finding Reliable Cancer Information: A Program For Patients And Caregivers”
is the topic of a Patrick Dempsey Center for Cancer Hope and Healing program
being offered on January 28.

A wealth of information is available on cancer research, treatment, coping,
and many other topics. This information comes in a variety of formats, from
the traditional (books, magazines, and journals) to the latest technologic
options (internet, webcasts, and podcasts).

CMMC health sciences librarian Maureen Fournier will explain how individuals
can sort through all that is available to find the most recent, reliable,
oncologist-approved information.

The program will be offered free of charge from 1:30 p.m. to 3 p.m. in
Conference Room I on the lower level of the 12 High Street Medical Office
Building, adjacent to Central Maine Medical Center.

Anyone with questions or wishing to pre-register should call 795-8250 or
1-877-DEMPCTR.

01/22/2009

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Telephone Education Workshop

For People Living with Cancer

The Patrick Dempsey Center for Cancer Hope and Healing will host “Caring For
Your Bones When You Have Multiple Myeloma”, a telephone education workshop
for people living with cancer, on January 28.

Presented by national experts and offered by CancerCare, Inc., the program
is available free of charge from 1:30 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. Participants may
join in at the Dempsey Center or may listen at home.

Those interested in participating or having questions about the workshop
should call 795-8250 or 1-877-DEMPCTR. They may also listen at home by
registering through CancerCare, Inc. at 1-800-813-4673 or www.cancercare.org


Upcoming telephone workshops include: “Caring For Your Bones When You Have
Breast Cancer” on February 20 and “Balancing Cancer and Careers: Living and
Working With Cancer” on March 12. Both programs will be offered from 1:30
p.m. to 2:30 p.m.

01/22/2009

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Mark T. Branda, M.D.

Joins Central Maine Gastroenterology

Mark T. Branda, M.D., a gastroenterologist, has been appointed to the
Central Maine Medical Center Medical Staff. He is practicing in association
with Central Maine Gastroenterology, a clinical department of Central Maine
Medical Center.

Prior to beginning his work in the greater Lewiston-Auburn area, Branda
completed a gastroenterology fellowship at Rhode Island Hospital-Brown
University School of Medicine in Providence, R.I.

A graduate of Bowdoin College in Brunswick, Branda’s academic background
includes a year of study at University College Cork in Cork, Ireland, and a
year at Universite de Provence in Aix-en-Provence, France.

He earned his medical degree at the University of Vermont College of
Medicine in Burlington, Vt., and completed an internship and residency in
internal medicine at Yale-New Haven Hospital/Yale University in New Haven,
Conn. He was recognized with various academic honors while completing both
his undergraduate and medical studies.

Branda’s professional background includes work as laboratory scientist at
Dartmouth Medical School in Lebanon, N.H. He has co-authored several
scholarly articles that have been published in professional journals.

He is certified by the American Board of Internal Medicine.

Central Maine Gastroenterology, located at 77 Bates Street in Lewiston, is
also comprised of Oswaldo Bisbal, M.D., John F. Lewandowski, M.D., Philip J.
O'Connor, M.D., and Michael R. Sivulich, M.D. The practice can be reached at
784-5784.

01/22/2009

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Trudi A. Chase, M.D.

Joins Hematology-Oncology Associates in Brunswick

Trudi A. Chase, M.D., a specialist in hematology and medical oncology, has been named to the Central Maine Medical Center Medical Staff. She is practicing with Hematology-Oncology Associates of Central Maine Medical Center in Brunswick.
Prior to opening her new CMMC-affiliated practice in Brunswick, Chase worked for nearly seven years at Midcoast Hospital in Brunswick while also serving on the Parkview Adventist Medical Center Consulting Medical Staff, also in Brunswick. For more than a decade beginning in 1991, Chase practiced in the greater Lewiston-Auburn area.

She is a member of the consulting medical staffs at Parkview Adventist Medical Center, The Memorial Hospital in North Conway, N.H., St. Andrews Hospital in Boothbay Harbor, and Miles Memorial Hospital in Damariscotta.

Chase presently serves as a researcher for the National Cancer Institute and for the Cancer and Leukemia Group B through the Dana Farber Cancer Institute in Boston.

Her professional background includes some seven years as oncology program director at St. Mary’s Regional Medical Center in Lewiston and four years as hospice medical director for Community Health Services in Bridgton.

A graduate of Colby College in Waterville, Chase earned her medical degree at the University of Vermont College of Medicine in Burlington, Vt. She completed an internship and residency training at Baystate Medical Center in Springfield, Mass. She completed fellowship training in hematology-oncology at the University of Connecticut Health Center in Farmington, Conn., and at Baystate Medical Center.

Chase is certified in medical oncology, hematology and internal medicine by the American Board of Internal Medicine. She is a member of the American Society of Hematology, American Society of Clinical Oncology, and a past president of the New England Society of Clinical Oncology. She is also a member of the Maine Cancer Foundation Board of Directors.

She has lived with her family in Brunswick for seven years.

Hematology-Oncology Associates of Central Maine Medical Center’s Brunswick office is located at 331 Maine Street. The office can be reached at 319-1847. Also practicing with Hematology-Oncology Associates are hematology-oncology specialists Meghna Desai, M.D., Nicholette L. Erickson, M.D., and Ann E. Traynor, M.D.





01/13/2009

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Gastroenterologist joins staff

Oswaldo Bisbal, M.D., a gastroenterologist, has been appointed to the
Central Maine Medical Center Medical Staff. He is practicing in association
with Central Maine Gastroenterology, a clinical department of Central Maine
Medical Center.

Before he began his work in the Lewiston-Auburn area, Bisbal practiced for
three years at Salem Veterans Administration Hospital in Salem, Va. He also
served as an assistant professor of internal medicine at the University of
Virginia in Charlottesville, Va.

A graduate of Alexander von Humboldt Schule in Lima, Peru, he earned his
medical degree at Universidad Peruana Cayetano Heredia School of Medicine,
also in Lima, Peru. He served an internship and residency in internal
medicine and a gastroenterology fellowship at State University of New York
Downstate Health Sciences Center in Brooklyn, N.Y.

He has worked as a medical researcher in Peru and the United States, and has
published scholarly articles.

He is certified in gastroenterology by the American Board of Internal
Medicine. He has special interest in colon cancer, inflammatory bowel
disease and diseases of the biliary tract.

Bisbal is fluent in English, Spanish and German.

Central Maine Gastroenterology, located at 77 Bates Street in Lewiston, is
also comprised of Mark T. Branda, M.D., John F. Lewandowski, M.D., Philip J.
O'Connor, M.D., and Michael R. Sivulich, M.D. The practice can be reached at
784-5784.

01/12/2009

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ED Nurses Certified

Three Central Maine Medical Family emergency department nurses were among
the first group of nurses in the United States to earn a new special
certification.

Carmen Hetherington, R.N., of Central Maine Medical Center, and Pamela
Poisson, R.N., and Robin Gilbert, R.N., both of Rumford Hospital, were among
just 200 nurses nationwide to earn the Certified Pediatric Emergency Nurse
(CPEN) designation.

Hetherington and Poisson participated as beta testers for the first CPEN
exam, which was administered in October. Gilbert, presently chairperson of
the Board of Certification for Emergency Nurses (BCEN), helped develop the
CPEN exam. All three nurses also hold the Certified Emergency Nurse
credential.

The trio earned the CPEN designation as a result of their extensive
experience, knowledge, and demonstrated abilities in pediatric emergency
nursing care. They demonstrated their expertise by passing the CPEN exam, a
rigorous test of their knowledge in such areas as medical emergencies,
toxicology, special needs children, shock, trauma, family dynamics,
resuscitation, legal and professional responsibilities, and leadership. The
CPEN credential is valid for four years.

The development of the CPEN credential resulted from a partnership between
the Board of Certification for Emergency Nursing and the Pediatric Nursing
Certification Board. The exam was specifically developed to meet specialized
pediatric emergency care needs as cited in the Institute of Medicines 2006
report: Emergency Care for Children: Growing Pains.

Hetherington has nearly 30 years experience as a registered nurse, including
22 years as an emergency nurse. She holds a bachelors degree in nursing
from the University of Southern Maine in Portland. She is presently
emergency medical services (EMS) educator at CMMC. She is also chairperson
of the Maine Emergency Nurses Association (MENA) Pediatric Committee and
represents Tri-County EMS and MENA on the Maine EMS Committee for Children.

Gilbert also has almost 30 years experience in nursing. She earned her
bachelors degree in nursing from Curry College in Milton, Mass., and her
masters degree in nursing from St. Joseph College in Windham. She is
presently manager of the Rumford Hospital Emergency Department. She has been
involved with BCEN for the past 10 years, starting as an item writer for the
CEN exam and moving on to the exam construction review committee before
becoming the organizations current chairperson.

Poisson holds a bachelors degree from the University of Maine at Farmington
and earned an associate degree in nursing from the University of Maine at
Augusta. She has worked as an emergency department nurse at Rumford Hospital
for the past 11 years. She is chairperson of the MENA Governmental Affairs
Committee. She maintains certifications in a number of nursing and emergency
responder specialties and holds the distinction of being Maines first
RN-paramedic. Her nursing experience also includes 13 years at Inland
Hospital in Waterville.

01/12/2009

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'Yoga for Life'

Topic at Patrick Dempsey Center Program in January

'Yoga For Life' is the topic of a Patrick Dempsey Center for Cancer Hope and
Healing program being offered beginning in January.

Marcy Covey, a CMMC wellness instructor and owner of Dragonfly Healing
Touch, a Thai Yoga Bodywork studio in Poland, will lead a series of classes
for cancer patients, survivors, and caregivers. Classes will include gentle
yoga moves that combine stretching, breathing, and relaxation.

The program will be offered free of charge from 11 a.m. to noon on Thursdays
at the CMMC Wellness Center, 12 High Street, Lewiston.

Covey recently finished four years of training with renowned Thai Yoga
Healing Arts instructor Jonas Westring. She has also studied Thai Yoga
Massage with Kam Thye Chow of the Lotus Palm School of Massage in Montreal
and has attained certification in Pre-Natal Thai Yoga Bodywork through the
Palm School.

A Vermont native, she graduated from Oberlin College in Oberlin, Ohio, and
went on to create an exercise-wellness program for North Country Hospital in
Newport, Vt. In the early 1990s she created the first wellness programs at
CMMC, helping to design the CMMC Wellness Center, which she managed from
1995 through 2002. She continues to serve as a wellness instructor at the
hospital-based facility, where she teaches yoga classes, leads Fit n Fun
exercise classes for seniors, and assists with the Wellness for Life program
for cancer patients and survivors by introducing them to yoga and other
wellness modalities.

Anyone with questions or wishing to pre-register should call 795-8250 or
1-877-DEMPCTR.

01/12/2009

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Qigong for Optimal Health

A Workshop for Cancer Patients, Survivors and Caregivers

The Patrick Dempsey Center for Cancer Hope and Healing will present Qigong
for Optimal Health: A Workshop for Cancer Patients, Survivors and
Caregivers in January at Rumford Hospital.

Qigong is an ancient Asian exercise that focuses on breathing. It is used
for gentle exercise to circulate energy through the body, reduce stress, and
stimulate the bodys major meridians. The benefits of Qi Gong for cancer
patients are currently being studied in clinical trials at several major
cancer centers.

The speaker for the lecture-demonstration program will be Betsey Foster, who
has studied with T'ai Chi Chuan and Qigong masters in the United States and
Canada since 1988. She currently studies with Dr. Yang, Jwing-Ming from
Boston and has completed his Qigong training program.

Foster teaches at hospitals and health centers in western and central Maine,
including CMMC. She also writes and lectures on the health benefits and
current medical research regarding T'ai Chi Chuan and Qigong. She holds a
master's degree in public health from Boston University School of Medicine.
She is particularly interested in the health benefits of both Qigong and
T'ai Chi Chuan and how they relate to traditional Chinese medicine.


The program will be offered on January 15 from 1:30 p.m. to 3 p.m. in Room
357 at Rumford Hospital.

The program is free and no pre-registration is required. Anyone with
questions is urged to call 795-8250 or 1-877-DEMPCTR.

01/05/2009

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ConnectShuttle

Non-emergency Transportation

ConnectShuttle is the free, non-emergency transportation program that provides patients of the Bridgton Hospital practices - Bridgton Internal Medicine, Naples Family Practice, North Bridgton Family Practice, Fryeburg Family Medicine - with comfortable mini-bus transportation between Bridgton Hospital and Central Maine Medical Center (CMMC) and Central Maine Heart and Vascular Institute (CMHVI) specialty care.

ConnectShuttle is a free roundtrip service, departing from the main parking lot at Bridgton Hospital, traveling to selected specialty services at CMMC, and returning passengers to Bridgton Hospital. The service provides several scheduled round-trips during the day to meet the needs of patients.

Reservations for roundtrip travel on the ConnectShuttle are handled by the registration staff of Bridgton Internal Medicine.

Patients of Bridgton Hospital practices who have specialty physician appointments at CMMC and CMHVI, and who meet the following qualifications, are encouraged to take advantage of this Quality Care~Close to Home benefit:

* ConnectShuttle transport is for non-emergency care only
* ConnectShuttle patients must be able to travel without assistance
* ConnectShuttle patients must have difficulty arranging transportation to specialty care services at CMMC and/or CMHVI. Those difficulties could include no drivers or caregivers available during specialty office hours and/or lack of funds for private car service.

ConnectShuttle A/Morning Run
7:30 a.m. to 8:45 a.m. BH to CMMC
9:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. CMMC to BH

ConnectShuttle B/Afternoon Run
11:00 a.m. to 12:15 p.m. BH to CMMC
12:15 p.m. to 12:45 p.m. Driver lunch break
1:00 p.m. to 2:15 p.m. CMMC to BH

ConnectShuttle C/Evening Run
2:30 p.m. to 3:45 p.m. BH to CMMC
4:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. CMMC to BH

We're Always Thinking of Ways to Help our Patients ~ Quality Care Close to Home

09/18/2008

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