citizen physicians guide february 2015

Sherine Thomas, MD, Oncologist David Grosswald, OD, Optometrist

ROCKDALE CITIZEN NEWTON CITIZEN

FEBRUARY 2015 WINTER EDITION

PHYSICIANS GUIDEINSIDE:

• Simplified radiation therapy for early-stage breast cancer• Phlebotomy a high-demand career • New laser therapy for foot & ankle pain

• Steps to support the caregiver• Keys to prevent back pain in pregnancy• How hormones trigger psoriasis• Finding help with hospice care

ROCKDALE/NEWTON'S PREMIER HEALTH CARE MAGAZINE

Jamie Adams, DC, Chiropractor

Brian Healey, OD, Optometrist

Ratna Sajja, MD, Radiation Oncology

G. Wayne Newman Jr., DPM, PodiatristTameka Walker-Blake, MD,

Medical Director

Reginald H. Warren, MD, Assistant Medical Director

Dione V. Marcus, MD, Dermatologist Caroline Wells, PA-C, Dermatologist

Mitchel Thacker, DC, ChiropractorAnnamarie Paulsen, MD,

Adult, Child & Adolescent Psychiatry

Jessie L. Bender, DO, OB/GYN Angelo Rizzo, MS, PT, CDT

Trent Rice, MD, Gyn Surgeon

Veronica Garrett, MD, FACOG, OB/GYN

HELPING YOU MAKE THE BEST CHOICE IN HEALTH CARE

INDEX FEB 2015 ROCKDALE/NEWTON CITIZEN PHYSICIANS GUIDEASSISTED LIVING Remington House1504 Renaissance DriveConyers, GA 30012 • 770-761-4888 Yellow Brick House 6903 Main St., Lithonia, GA 30058 • 770-482-4044

BANKINGGeorgia United Credit1381 Milstead Avenue NE Conyers, GA 30012 • 770-483-5211Newton Federal3175 Hwy. 278 NE, Covington, GA 300148258 Hwy. 278 NE, Covington, GA 30014By Pass Rd. & Hwy. 36, Covington, GA 30014770-786-7088

CHIROPRACTIC Thacker Chiropractic Mitchel Thacker, DC Steven Thacker, DC 1927 Hwy. 138, Suite 500 Conyers, GA 30013 • 770-860-8333Covington Family ChiropracticJamie Adams, DC2125 Pace St. Suite B, Morgan PlazaCovington, GA 30014 • 770-689-6987

DERMATOLOGY Dermatology Consultants PC Michelle Juneau, MDBenjamin Kelly, MDCharlé Cameron, PA-C Dione Marcus, MD4151 Hospital Drive Covington, GA 30014 • 770-784-0343Georgia Dermatology of ConyersJohn Fountain, MDAllen Filstein, MDDarryl Hodson, MDCaroline Wells, PA-C1349 Milstead Rd.Conyers, GA 30012 • 770-785-7546

EAR, NOSE AND THROATEar, Nose and Throat SpecialistsArthur Torsiglieri, MD, FACSDonald Cote, MDAdam French, MDCooper Brown, PA-C1370 Wellbrook Circle, Conyers, GA 30012770-922-54584181 Hospital Drive, NE, Suite 102, Covington, GA. 30014 • 770-385-03211110 Commerce Drive, Suite 108Greensboro, GA 30642 • 770-922-5458

FAMILY DENTISTRYFamily & Cosmetic DentistryDavid Brassell, MD1383 Manchester Drive • Suite AConyers, GA 30012 • 770-922-6149

FAMILY MEDICINEDonna Groover, MDKimberly Chitwood, FNP7143 Turner Lake RoadCovington, GA 30014 • 770-788.-9970 Essential Family CareSheryl Canady, MD1775 Parker Rd., Suite C-240Conyers, GA • 678-609-6282Bridgewater Family PracticeDonny Delp, DOMichael J. Manning, MD, MDVIPJonathan E. Henderson, MD

2215 Exchange Place, SEConyers, GA 30013 770-922-3522

Premier Internal MedicineAnne Grant, MD5294 Adams St. NECovington, GA 30014 • 770-787-5600200 Brookstone PlaceSuite B • Social Circle, GA 30025 • 770-464-2540 Conyers Medical ClinicGanesh Kini, MD2601 Salem Rd.Conyers, GA 30013 • 770-922-1880 Muthu Kuttappan, MD14779 Brown Bridge Rd.Covington, GA 30016 • 770-788-7777Internal Medicine Associates of Rockdale, P.C.Trinidad Osselyn, MDSabrina Wyllie-Adams, MD 1301 Wellbrook CircleConyers, GA 30012 • 770-922-3023

Eastside Internal Medicine, LLCSyed Wasin, MD, MPHFarhana Quasem, MDMasood Siddiquee, MD,MRCP 2080 Eastside DriveConyers, GA • 678-625-7800

GASTROENTEROLOGY East Atlanta Gastroenterology Associates, PC 1269 Wellbrook Circle, NE Conyers, GA 30012 • 770-922-0505

GENERAL SURGERYB. Carter Rogers, MD, FACSSteven R. Whitworth, MD, FACS4181 Hospital Drive NESuite 303, Covington, GA 30014770-787-6957

Andrew S. Harper, MDConyers Medical Park1301 Sigman Rd. NE Suite 225Conyers, GA 30012 • 770-922-4024

HEMATOLOGY/ONCOLOGYVictoria Afshani, MD10157 Eagle DriveCovington, GA 30014 • 770.786.0655

Georgia Cancer SpecialistsKathleen Lambert, MDSherine Thomas, MD1501 Milstead Rd., Suite 110Conyers, GA 30012 • 770-760-9949

HOSPICEAbbey Hospice215 Azalea CourtSocial Circle, GA 30025770-464-5858 OR Toll free 1-866-252-2239Pruitt Health HospiceCorporate Office1626 Jeurgens CourtNorcross, GA 30093 • 404-292-2081

HOSPITALRockdale Medical Center1412 Milstead Avenue, Conyers, GA 30012800-424-DOCS (3627)Newton Medical Center5126 Hospital Drive., NECovington, GA 30014 • 770-786-7053

Infectious DiseasesSuji Mathew, MD7143 Turner Lake RoadCovington, GA 30014 • 770-787-4504

INSURANCESheridan & Associates, Inc. Rhonda Sheridan, RN, BSN, CSA, CLTC983 O’Kelly StreetConyers, GA 30012 • 770-760-9474

The Financial TrackJiles Parham, CLU3470 Monice Lane SWConyers, GA 30094 • 678-374-2821

NEUROLOGY/NEURO-OPHTHALMOLOGYRockdale Neurology AssociatesBryan Riggeal, MDCandice Riggeal, DO1255 Commercial Drive, Suite BConyers, GA 30094 • 770-278-0154Sonal Hazariwala, MDJennifer McDonald, ARNP5211 Highway 278 NECovington, GA 30014 • 770-787-8200

OBSTETRICS/GYNECOLOGY/UROGYNECOLOGY Advanced Gynecology AssociatesHolly Imlach, MD1380 Milstead Ave. NE Suite EConyers, GA 30012 • 678-609-4913Erin Mayfield, DO5154 Cook St. NECovington, GA 30014 • 770-788-1778New Beginnings Comprehensive Women's Health CareVeronica Garrett, MD, FACOGN. Ruth Harris, MD, FACOGShannon Mayfield, C.N.M.1415 Milstead Rd. NE Suite AConyers, GA 30012 • 678-413-0858The Women's Center, PCStephanie Gordon, MDTrent Rice, MD2750 Owens Drive, Suite AConyers, GA 30012 • 678-413-4644140 Eagles Spring CourtStockbridge, GA 30281 • 770-302-0878Covington Women's Health Specialists, LLCCathy T. Larrimore, MD4181 Hospital Drive, Suite 104/100Covington, GA 30014 • 770-385-8954

OPTOMETRISTThe Eye CenterDavid Grosswald, ODBrian Healey, OD1192 Dogwood Dr., SEConyers, GA 30012 • 770-860-1919ORTHOPEDIC/SPORTS MEDICINE/REHABILITATIONAthens Orthopedic ClinicJimmy Spivey,MDDavid Harkins,DOJuri Vander Heijden, PA-C 5303 Adams St.Covington, GA 30014 •706-549-1663

Georgia Orthopedics & Sports MedicineRenee S. Riley, MD FAAOSRyan J. Tomlins, MD, CAQErica Vrvilo, PA-C4181 Hospital Drive Suite 204 • Covington, GA 30014770-788-6534

PHYSICAL THERAPYDrayer Physical Therapy Institute3122 Hwy. 278 NWCovington, GA 30014470-444-1609 Therapeutic Solutions, Inc.Angelo J. Rizzo, MS, PT, CDT1501 Milstead Rd., Suite 170Conyers, GA 30012770-922-2420

PODIATRYAssociated Foot & Ankle SpecialistsG. Wayne Newman, Jr., DPM1567 Milstead Road, Suite AConyers, GA 30012770-483-2291

PSYCHIATRYRockdale Psychiatric AssociatesAnnamarie Paulsen, MD1397 Manchester Dr. NEConyers, GA 30012 • 770-922-0255

RADIATIONRadiotherapy Clinics of Georgia1293 Wellbrook CircleConyers, GA 30012 • 770-922-2012

7174 Wheat StreetCovington, GA 30014 • 770-787-4446

SENIOR ASSISTANCEFirstLight Home Care1255 Commercial Dr. SWConyers, GA 30094770-602-0500

TECHNICAL COLLEGEGeorgia Piedmont Technical College16200 Alcovy Rd.Covington, GA 30014 • 404-297-95228100 Bob Williams PkwyCovington, GA 30014 • 404-297-9522

URGENT CAREGeorgia Primary & Urgent CareHarmon Andrew Smith, MDBenjamin Fernando, MDRandy Riner, PAConyers Medical Park1301 Sigman Rd. NE, Suite 230Conyers, GA 30012 • 678-609-4912(New) Brown Bridge • 678-625-4441

Wendell Smith, MD5294 Adams StreetCovington, GA 30014 • 770-787-5600

VASCULAR & THORACICRockdale Vascular AssociatesRobert C. Davies, MO,FACS,,FAPW-CAErikaa Mann, PA-C1301 Sigman Rd. NE, Suite 130Conyers, GA 30012 • 678-609-4927

WOUND CARE & HYPERBARIC MEDICINEHyperbaric & Wound Healing CenterRockdale Medical CenterBrian D. Allen, MD1412 Milstead Ave.Conyers, GA 30012678-413-7738

Look for our Summer Edition of the Physicians Guide publishing in June 2015

THE CITIZEN • PHYSICIANS GUIDE • SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 22, 2015 • 3

4 • SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 22, 2015 • PHYSICIANS GUIDE • THE CITIZEN

FEBRUARY 2015 WINTER EDITION ROCKDALE/NEWTON CITIZEN PHYSICIANS GUIDE

EMERGENCY

Newton Medical Center welcomes new emergency physician group

Newton Medical Center is proud to welcome EmCare as its new emergency physician group. As board certified physicians specially trained in emergency medicine, the group is dedicated to providing quality emer-gency care to the community. Dr. Tameka Walker-Blake serves as the medical director for the new group.Previously, Dr. Blake was the site medical director at Emory Adventist Hospital of Smyrna where she led the Emergency Department to the num-ber one position in the entire system in multiple areas. And, nationally, for the second year in a row, the Ad-ventist Emergency Department was awarded top ED thanks to her great work. Due to these accomplishments, Dr. Blake was awarded with the 2014 Site Medical Directors of the Year award for Emergency Medicine by EmCare’s South Division. Nominees of the award are rated in areas includ-ing: level of engagement with hospital leadership, how well they work with other medical disciplines to achieve department goals, and ability to com-municate with multiple disciplines to achieve department goals.

EmCare’s Divisional Director of Clin-ical Services, Kathy Molino stated in the award press release, “Dr. Blake has completely changed the culture in the Emory Emergency Department during her tenure as SMD. She is a ‘hands on, lead by example’ type of director and has turned her group into a tight knit team.”

The Emergency Department at New-ton Medical Center has 17 acute-care beds, including four cardiac beds and five trauma beds, as well as a six bed minor care area. More than 40,000 patients are treated a year. To better serve those patients, Director Barbara Kelley, RN, MSN, PhDc has helped make some changes since joining the department in July of 2014. Kelley has overseen the creation of new posi-tions and the development of new processes.

“We’ve had an increase in patient volume as well as acuity, and in order to meet the demands of the com-munity, we are actively working on improving our patient flow in the ED, to better care for our patients” she said.

In addition to hiring additional staff, the Emergency Department has extended the hours of the minor care, currently from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. to 9 a.m. to 1 a.m.“Things that aren’t deemed emergent, like a toothache or an ear, nose or throat issue - things that aren’t so complex - can be seen by a nurse practitioner or PA and can get in and out,” Kelley said. “By increasing those hours, what we hope to do is take some of the congestion and pileup out of the main ED, so the people who come in with more emergent matters can be treated quickly.”A stroke designation certification from The Joint Commission is well underway at Newton Medical Center. The emergency department has incorporated the use of neurology telemedicine, which is helping speed up diagnosis and treatment times for

acute stroke patients.“The emergency department physicians are able to consult with a neurologist via telemedicine, which is essentially a high-end video chat,” Kelley said. “Patients are able to be assessed by a neurologist very quickly in order to identify the severity of the stroke and the potential for interven-tion on those patients.”Minutes count during an emergency such as a stroke, and Newton Medical Center Emergency Department is so close to home. When you need expert immediate care, the EMS ambulance service and Emergency Department physicians and nurses are here 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

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Newton Medical Center is proud to welcome EmCare as its new emergency physician group. Pictured left to right: John T. Blasingame, MD; Ozita D. Cooper, MD; Reginald H. Warren, MD, Assistant Director; Abigail E. Rountree, PA; La-Nikqua T.Thomas, MD; Scott F. Hern, PA; Parul K. Patel, MD; Sandra Mccord, PA; Christopher Lynch, MD; and Tameka Walker-Blake, MD, Medical Director.

Understanding Emergency Room TriageThe Emergency Department uses a process known as triage to prioritize the treatment of patients based on the severity of their conditions. Simply stated, triage ensures that sicker or more critical patients are evaluated and treated first. Non-emer-gent complaints and conditions might have to wait longer.

Once you arrive to the ED, you will be taken to the triage area and evaluated by a nurse. If an exam room is available, then you will be escorted to an exam room and evalu-ated by the ED physician. If the ED is busy and exam rooms are unavailable, then you may be asked to return to the waiting room. Patients are seen based on their acuity lev-el or severity of illness or injury, not at the time of arrival. A common misconception is that patients who arrive by ambulance will automatically be taken to an exam room. Ambulance patients are triaged and assigned acuity levels the same as patients who drive themselves to the emergency room. Our goal is to evaluate and treat all patients as quickly as possible.



ONCOLOGY

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MammoSite – Simplified Radiation Therapy for Early-Stage Breast CancerBreast cancer is the most common form of cancer among women other than skin cancer, and is the second leading cause of cancer death in women after lung cancer. There is a 1 in 8 chance of a woman developing breast cancer in her lifetime. Thankfully, if detected in the earliest stages, the 5-year survival rate for breast cancer is close to 100%. Newer research and advanced technologies today offer women with early-stage breast cancer treatment options beyond the traditional mas-tectomy and whole breast radiation therapy. Some of these choices include lumpectomy + radiation therapy, sentinel lymph node biopsy, chemoprevention, and partial breast irradiation. Given the number of treatment options and combinations of treatments that can be used, the optimal treatment program will be different for every woman. The choice of treatment depends on a number of factors, including the size, type, stage of the breast cancer, as well as the age and overall condition of the woman. Treatment decisions should

be made by a multidisciplinary team of physi-cians, usually a surgeon, radiation oncolo-gist, and medical oncologist, along with the patient and her family. Most breast cancers are initially treated surgically, with removal of all or a portion of the breast containing the cancerous lesion. Breast conservation therapy (BCT) refers to the removal of a breast cancer with a small amount of surrounding breast tissue. BCT may also be referred to as a lumpectomy or partial mastectomy, and has been shown to be as effective as a mastec-tomy for most women with Stage I and II breast cancer. Breast surgeries are also often accompanied by a procedure to determine if the breast cancer has spread to the lymph nodes (sentinel lymph node biopsy or axillary dissection). Breast conserving surgery is usually followed by radiation therapy and possibly chemotherapy. After a breast tumor is removed, radiation therapy is given to kill any cancer cells that remain so that they cannot reproduce. Cancer cells are especially vulner-able to radiation. Unlike normal healthy cells, cancer cells are unable to repair themselves after damage, which helps keep the cancer

from coming back. Conventional external beam radiation therapy uses high energy x-ray beams which pass through the skin to treat the entire breast after a lumpectomy. A daily dose of radiation is delivered over 5-7 weeks. In contrast to this, MammoSite deliv-ers radiation therapy from inside the breast directly to the area where the cancer is most likely to recur. This technique, also known as brachytherapy, reduces the exposure of nor-mal, healthy tissue and organs to the effects of radiation. MammoSite is able to deliver a higher daily dose of radiation in a short peri-od of time – only 5 days. After a breast tumor is removed, a small, soft MammoSite balloon attached to a catheter is placed within the lumpectomy cavity by a surgeon. The balloon is inflated with saline so it fits snugly within the cavity. The balloon remains inflated for the 5-day radiation treatment. Treatment is planned by a radiation oncologist. During the therapy, the portion of the catheter which is outside of the breast is connected to a computer-controlled high-dose rate (HDR) machine which inserts a tiny radioactive seed to deliver the treatment. Once therapy is

complete, the seed is removed, the catheter is disconnected, and the patient is able to continue with her normal activities. No radiation remains inside the breast between treatments. Therapy usually consists of two treatments a day for 5 days. The MammoSite balloon catheter is usually removed on the last day of treatment. MammoSite received FDA clearance in 2002. Clinical studies have shown the MammoSite 5-day radiation therapy system to be well tolerated with mild side effects (redness, bruising, pain) which last for a short period of time. The 5-year initial clinical trial showed no local recurrences of the breast cancer, a majority of patients had good/excellent cosmetic results, and all the patients would recommend MammoSite to a friend or family member. A breast surgeon and radiation oncologist can determine if a woman is a good candidate for this targeted radiation therapy system. In general, if you have been diagnosed with an early-stage breast cancer less than 3 cm in size, you may be able to receive the MammoSite RTS and complete your breast cancer treatment in a shorter time.

By Ratna Sajja, MDRadiotherapy Clinics of Georgia -- Conyers

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Convenient locations throughout Metro Atlanta:

Decatur: (404) 320-1550 Conyers: (770) 922-2012 Covington: (770) 787-4446

•An experienced team of professionals

•Comprehensive quality of care

•Leaders in cancer research and treatment

•State-of-the-art technology

Lawrenceville: (770) 995-3000 Snellville: (770) 979-3705



HOSPICE CARE

Care of a loved one in their final days is hard enough.

No one should have to do it alone.

GA License # 107-151-H Medicare Provider # 111530

bbey Hospice

Abbey Hospice and its 13-bed inpatient unit located in the heart of Walton County, provides home hospice services to the surrounding 17 counties including Newton, Rockdale, Morgan, and Jasper.

770-464-5858www.abbeyhospice.com

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YOU NEED HELP…..how do you find it?Do you have a loved one that is declining due to an illness(es)? Are they tired of going back and forth to the hospital? Have they been told that there are no more treatment op-tions to cure them? Are they desiring comfort measures and support at home? If the answers to these ques-tions are ”YES”, then hospice care may be the right choice to meet the current needs of all. Medical over-sight, including skilled nursing visits, hygiene care, emotional and spiritual support, medications, incontinent supplies, gloves, oxygen, hospital bed are some of the services offered by the hospice benefit. And all of these services are reimbursed 100% by Medicare and Medicaid as well as most private insurance companies. Hospice should never turn a patient

away due to inability to pay.

All of this sounds wonderful and appears to meet your needs but how do you tap into the hospice benefit? There are a couple of ways to explore the hospice benefit. One way to pursue hospice services is to directly contact the patient’s physician and discuss the needs of your loved one. A second option is to directly contact a hospice of your choice and inquire about hospice services. A hospice repre-sentative can help answer questions and review your needs and how they can be met by the hospice team. They can also offer to contact the

physician to review your case. If the physician deems your loved one to have a life limiting condition of 6 months or less then an order for hospice is appropriate.

So now you and the physician have determined hospice is the right choice for your loved one. The next

step in pur-suing hospice services is to speak directly with the hospice of your choice. Either the patient/fam-ily or the physician

staff may contact hospice. The hos-pice admissions team will schedule a time to meet with you in your home to explain the hospice philosophy and services. Once hospice services

are agreed upon the patients’ plan of care will be established and services will begin. Hospice staff will sched-ule regular visits to promote comfort and support for all. Medications will be monitored and adjusted as necessary for symptom management. Medications will also be delivered to the home. As patient needs change so does the hospice services offered. The hospice journey does not end when your loved one dies. Bereavement services are offered and continue for 13 months. Individual and group support opportunities are offered.

If you or a loved one need help, help is just a phone call away. To inquire how hospice can make a difference for you please call Abbey, your community hospice provider, at 770-464-5858 for more information. We cover Walton, Newton, Rockdale and surrounding counties.

By Helen Graves, RN, MSNDirector of Clinical Services Abbey Hospice



ORTHOPEDIC CARE

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Meet Your AOC Covington Team

With over 30 years of experience in orthopedic surgery, Dr. Jimmy Spivey is a welcome addition to the Athens Orthopedic Clinic team. Dr. Spivey and Juri Van der Heijden, PA-C, join Dr. David Harkins in welcoming new patients to Athens Orthopedic Clinic’s Covington location at 5303 Adams Street.Dr. Spivey received training at the Medical College of Georgia and completed a fellowship in hand surgery. His years of experience and proven dedication to the Covington community show his great passion for orthopedics. Dr. Harkins completed his fellow-ship in surgery of the shoulder and elbow and he is trained in

the most advanced technology for shoulder reconstruction and sports injury surgery. Dr. Harkins said that he is very excited about this opportunity and is looking forward to providing high-quality care for Newton and Rockdale County patients.Common orthopedic problems that Athens Orthopedic Clinic’s providers treat are: rotator cuff tears, arthritis, fractures, sprains, neck and back pain, and other sports injuries. With a goal of conservative, minimally-invasive treatment, we only consider surgery after all other treat-ments have been exhausted. Our providers are proficient in many surgeries including total joint replacement of the knee, hip, and shoulder, MAKOplasty, arthros-copy, ligament reconstruction and clavicle repair.

Athens Orthopedic Clinic has been serving northeast Georgia since 1966 and also has locations in Athens, Commerce, Greens-boro, Loganville, Madison, Monroe, Royston, and Snellville. The Physicians and Physician As-sistants at AOC provide personal-ized care and custom treatment

plans for all types of acute and chronic orthopedic issues. AOC’s goal is to create an environment centered around patient comfort, convenience, and care. Visit www.AthensOrthopedicClinic.com or call 706-549-1663 to learn more about the practice or to request an appointment.

By Jennifer SappDirector of Public Relations, Athens Orthopedic Clinic

David Harkins, D.O., Juri Van Der Heijden, PA-C,MMSc, Jimmy Spivey, M.D.

A T H E N S O R T H O P E D I C C L I N I C

ATHENS . COMMERCE . COVINGTON . GREENSBORO . LOGANVILLE . MADISON . MONROE . ROYSTON . SNELLVILLE

NOW WELCOMING WALK-INS IN COVINGTON.

Not all care is created equally...Trust AOC’s fellowship-trained, sub-specialized

orthopedic surgeons with all your needs.

FOOT & ANKLE | SPINE & SCOLIOSIS | HAND & UPPER EXTREMITY | TOTAL JOINT | SPORTS MEDICINE | TRAUMA

5303 Adams St NE, Covington, GA 30014 | 706.549.1663



SENIOR CARE

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How to Speak Alzheimer’sOne of the most difficult things a person can hear is their par-ent or spouse has Alzheimer’s. Alzheimer’s, a progressive and irreversible disease of the brain that robs a person of memory, intellect, speech and eventu-ally physical ability. Although the disease effects each person differently there are similarities in behaviors that allow health care professionals to diagnose with some accuracy that a person has Alzheimer’s, as opposed to another type of dementia.

One of the main hallmarks of Al-zheimer’s is short term memory loss. Many of those affected can carry on a lively conversation about what happened forty years

ago but cannot remember what happened yesterday or even ten minutes ago. Because memory is the issue, many times friends and family members think the person simply needs to be reminded or corrected. This is unfortunately the wrong way to speak Alzheimer’s.

Caregivers need to keep in mind that it is possible for a person with Alzheimer’s to lead a pleas-ant and comfortable life if care-givers learn a few simple tricks and interventions. Always keep in mind people with Alzheimer’s have a disease that effects their brain and consequently they do not think rationally. Logic and reason do not exist. Janet Dawkins of Ageing Options Consulting recommends these interventions: Do not argue.

There is no reason to argue with a person that does not perceive things rationally. Avoid quiz-zing – “What’s my name, who am I, who came to see you yesterday? Questions like this can be frustrating to a person with memory loss. You are who they think you are. Many times as the disease progresses a person may not recognize their spouse of fifty years, or will think their son is their spouse. Grandchil-dren may seem to be their own children. Just go along. What is the harm? The goal is a pleasant encounter. Body Language – Al-though persons with Alzheimer’s cannot always process speech they can recognize other forms of communication such as a warm inviting smile, open arms and a calm approach.

Some other tools are to distract and re-direct. If a person is get-ting upset sometimes changing the subject or suggesting some new activity will diffuse the situ-ation. Take a walk, have a snack, look at photos. There are many, many things one can do, just be creative. And speaking of creative there is always therapeutic lying. It sounds terrible but would you rather say “Your wife is deceased” and potentially upset the person or “Your wife is visiting her sister or at the grocery store” and move on to the next topic? Finally, stay calm. Dealing with a person who has Alzheimer’s can be chal-lenging. Keep in mind, they are in their own world, we need to enter their reality.

By Dawn MasseyYellow Brick House Senior Living



DERMATOLOGY

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Mohs Surgery for the Treatment of Skin CancerAn estimated two million new cases of skin cancer in the U.S. are projected each year. The most common skin can-cers are basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and malignant melanoma. With early detection and treatment, skin cancer is highly curable. Skin cancer is easily diagnosed with a skin biopsy. There are different treatment options for skin cancer including excisional surgery, cryo-surgery (freezing), electro surgery (burning), radiation, prescription medications, and the special-ized surgical technique of Mohs Micrographic Surgery. The Mohs surgery procedure has proven to be up to 99 percent effective for basal cell carcinoma and Squa-mous cell carcinoma, the most common types of skin cancer.

Mohs surgery, developed in

1938 by Dr. Frederic E. Mohs, is microscopically controlled sur-gery that involves the complete evaluation of the surgical margins for skin cancer removal. Mohs surgery is typically an office based procedure performed safely under local anes-thesia. Dur-ing Mohs surgery, the skin cancer is removed layer by layer and the tissue is processed at an on-site laboratory. The tissue slides are examined by the Mohs surgeon who performs the pathology services, all while the patient remains in the office. If more cancer remains, the Mohs surgeon removes more tissue

precisely from only the area with remaining cancer and this addi-tional layer of tissue is processed and microscopically examined. This process continues until all

of the cancer-ous tissue is removed. After Mohs surgery confirms that all of the skin cancer has been removed, the surgical defect is immediately ready for repair. There are

several options for repair that in-clude allowing the wound to heal on its own or surgically repairing the defect.

Of the many treatment options for skin cancer, Mohs surgery is considered the “Gold Standard”

because it offers the highest potential cure rate (99 percent for basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma) and it offers superior cosmetic results by leaving healthy tissue intact. Mohs surgery is a highly effective advanced technique for the treat-ment of skin cancer that provides the patients with quick resolu-tion, rapid recovery, and peace of mind.Dr. John Fountain, Dr. Darryl Hodson, Dr. Allen Filstein, and Caroline Wells, PA-C at Georgia Dermatology offer general and surgical dermatology needs to you and your family. Call the office today at 770-785-SKIN (7546) to schedule an appoint-ment or visit the website at GaDerm.com for more information.

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GEORGIADERMATOLOGY

of CONYERS

John Fountain, MDAllen Filstein, MDDarryl Hodson, MDCaroline Wells, PA-C



CHIROPRACTIC/PHLEBOTOMY

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High Demand Healthcare Career:PHLEBOTOMYPhlebotomy is defined as a procedure that removes blood from the body. The work is performed by professionals known as phlebotomists. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the demand for phlebotomists will increase by 27 percent between 2012 and 2022. Phlebotomy programs prepare students to draw blood for lab tests, transfusions and blood donations. Students acquire competencies in all phases of phlebotomy, including:• drawingbloodfrompatients

and donors• verifyingapatient’sidentity• enteringpatientinformation

into databases• labelingthebloodfortesting

Students typically receive classroom and lab instruction. In some cases, they participate in hybrid courses, which are a combination of online and classroom instruction.

Coursework in Phlebotomy covers anatomy, physiology and medical terminology. Individuals who are interested in becoming phlebotomists should possess good eye-hand coordination and dexterity. Phlebotomists must also be detail-oriented, as they are responsible for labeling and tracking vials of blood.Graduates traditionally obtain employment in hospitals, diagnostic labs,free-standingclinics,doctor’soffices and other ambulatory health care organizations. Many phlebotomists are expected to work nights, weekends and holidays.Choosing a two-year institution for post-secondary studies offers students a big bang for their buck! Institutions of higher learning such as Georgia Piedmont Technical College provide affordable programs that enable students to earn certificates, diplomas and degrees.

Healthier Children Through Chiropractic Care?Yes, that’s correct! Chiropractic care is not just for pain relief, in fact, it was never intended to only be used for analgesic pur-poses. Relief of low back pain, neck pain, and headaches are some of the smallest benefits that you’ll ever get from chiroprac-tic care. Regular chiropractic care is a way to keep you and your family healthy. The spine protects the most important organ system in your body, the nervous system, which is made up of your brain which sends messages down your spinal cord and then from the spinal cord, those messages are sent out of billions of nerve fibers to every single organ, tissue and cell of your body. If there is any interference in this very intricate system, it can lead to a state of disharmony in the body such as organ mal-function, lowered immune system function, sickness, health challenges and disease. This interference is caused by misalignments of the spine called subluxations.

So how can a child have a subluxation or an interference in his or her nervous system? Such things as a breech pregnancy, a constrained uterus, a difficult delivery which may have required forceps, vacuum extraction, or even a cesarean section can

cause damage to the spine, especially the cervical spine. Health problems found in children and even adults have been traced all the way back to spinal damage at birth. As the child begins to grow into a toddler, they begin to walk and fall hundreds of times. As the toddler continues to grow into a child and adolescent, they now are much more active, running, jumping, playing sports, dance, gymnastics, etc… For these reasons, it is imperative to have your child’s spine checked for nerve interference, especially if your child suffers from health challenges such as asthma, frequent sick-ness, ear infections, colic, constipation, bed wetting, ADHD, sensory processing dis-orders, breast feeding difficulties, scoliosis, and growing pains. These symptoms are all signs that your child may have interference in nervous system.

In my experience, parents now are looking for a more natural and holistic way to keep their children healthy. Chiropractic care offers a safe, gentle, drug free and effective way to keep you and your family healthy. Include regular chiropractic assessments as part of your family’s healthcare routine.

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$47.00 Special Introductory Offer!

This coupon good for a spinal exam, consultation, and one adjustment for only $47!Offer good for a limited time only. Includes initial exam, initial consultation and initial adjustment. Not good with any other coupon or offer. Call, then bring this

coupon with you! Expires May 30, 2015!

• Pediatrics• Pregnancy• Back Pain• Headaches• Car Accident• Ear Infections

• Allergies• Wellness• Nutrition• Auto Immune• Carpal Tunnel• Performance

www.cfchiropractic.com



WOMEN'S HEALTH

New Beginnings is now offering 3 new rejuvenation servicesSotto Pelle •Restoredorincreased sexualdesire •Consistencyinmoods •Relieffromanxiety anddepression •Increasedmentalclarity, focus,memory •Greatercapacityfor gettingthebodyinshape •Improvedenergy,exercise tolerance,musclemass

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Juvederm •Smoothesoutthose parentheseslinesalongthe sidesofyournoseand mouth •Soft,Smooth,naturallook •Longlastingresultsyoucan seeinstantly

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Call Ginger – 678-413-0858Special Pricing until the end of the year!

Free Consults!

1415 Milstead Road Suit BConyers, GA 30012

WE’RE MOVING, LOOK FOR OUR NEW LOCATION DECEMBER 2012!Come see us at Our New LocationLarge, Modern, Brand-New Space with Lots of Parking!

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Veronica GarrettM.D., F.A.C.O.G.

naomi HarrisM.D., F.A.C.O.G.

sHannon mayfieldC.N.M.



DERMATOLOGY

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Hormonal changes could be a trigger for psoriasisSkin is the human body’s largest organ, spanning roughly 3,000 square inches and weighing about 6 pounds on the average human. Flexible and rugged, skin also is susceptible to damage, and conditions that affect the skin can be visible, embarrassing and troublesome.

Psoriasis is a chronic skin condition blamed on an improperly functioning immune system. The body may detect a perceived anomaly and attack itself. When a person is suffering from psoriasis, his or her skin cells are produced at an accelerated rate, resulting in red, raised and scaly patches on the skin known as plaques. Plaques are well-defined and typically appear on the scalp, lower back, face, palms, and soles of feet.

About one-third of people with psoriasis have a family member with the disease. Studies show the emotional and social effects of psoriasis are more significant for women than men, but both can be affected negatively by symptoms.

There is no cure for psoriasis, and some people are affected more severely than others. In addition, certain factors can aggravate psoriasis and lead to flare-ups. Understanding these triggers may help those affected by the disease better manage their symptoms. Although some of these triggers are not backed up

by firm scientific evidence, many people with psoriasis attest to their accuracy.

• Overexposure to sunlight: Exposure to sunlight and other forms of ultraviolet rays can be beneficial in reducing symptoms of psoriasis, and some dermatologists may even prescribe UV treatment. However, overexposure to the sun can worsen symptoms, particularly if men and women get a sunburn. There is a fine line between what is too much sun and enough sun, which is why those with psoriasis should only undergo UV treatment under the care of a dermatologist.

• Stress: Doctors don’t know exactly why, but psoriasis and stress seem to be linked. As stress escalates, flare-ups of psoriasis may become more common. In turn, flare-ups can lead to additional stress. Finding ways to reduce stress may result in clearer skin. Deep breathing, yoga and meditation may help alleviate stress.

• Hot water: Bathing or

washing in very hot water can worsen symptoms of psoriasis. Use lukewarm water and a moisturizing soap. Some dermatologists recommend colloidal oatmeal or Epsom salts in a bath to soften skin, relieve itching and help slough off scaly patches. Additionally, avoid situations that will lead to dry skin, such as exposure to hot or cold weather. Use moisturizer and reapply as needed.

• Certain foods: Some people with psoriasis note that certain foods and beverages trigger their flare-ups. Tomato- and pepper-based products and acidic or alcoholic beverages may cause flare-ups.

• Infections: After a bout of strep throat or an ear infection,

people with psoriasis may find their condition takes a turn for the worse. Though doctors don’t quite understand why, certain infections and medications to treat those conditions can cause psoriasis to act up. Discuss your psoriasis with your physician before taking any medication.

• Hormones: Women may find that hormonal changes trigger their psoriasis. Research isn’t clear as to connection

between psoriasis and hormones, but doctors do know that pregnancy and menopause can cause psoriasis to worsen or even appear for the first time. Others find that an increase or decrease in estrogen levels improves their psoriasis symptoms. But symptoms are unique, and psoriasis outbreaks need to be evaluated on a person-to-person basis.

Psoriasis is the most prevalent autoimmune condition in the United States, affecting as many as 7.5 million Americans according to recent studies. Certain behaviors, foods and skin care treatments can affect the severity and frequency of psoriasis flare-ups.



WOMEN'S HEALTH

The Women’s Center provides a full spectrum of Gynecologic Care

Dr. Stephanie Gordon and her team have practiced Gynecology in the community for nearly 15 years. They strive to give com-passionate and thorough care to their patients. The Women’s Center is known as the place to go for great care and expert clinical decision making.

Gynecologic problems can arise in women of all ages. Dr. Gor-don’s team provides a wide array of both general and specialized Gynecologic care. Common services provided include well-woman visits, evaluation and treatment of diseases and infec-tions of the female reproductive system, fibroids, endometriosis, infertility, hormone replacement therapy, and much more.

The services provided at the Women’s Center are specifically tailored to the patient’s needs. The goal is to provide patients with the information they need to make informed decisions on important aspects of their health.

The providers at the Women’s Center are current and up to date on all the latest advances in the field of Gynecology. Surgi-cal procedures are sometimes necessary for the treatment of certain Gynecologic condi-tions. The physicians at the Women’s Center have special-

ized training in traditional and minimally invasive surgical care. The surgeons utilize all the latest techniques and tools available to give their patients exceptional care. Continued ad-vances in medicine have allowed many surgeries, that were once historically invasive and often requiring long recovery periods, to now be performed in an out-patient setting. Robotic surgery is one such method the practice utilizes to get patients back to their normal lives quickly.

Dr. Trent Rice, who recently finished specialized fellowship training in Urogynecology at Vanderbilt University in Nash-ville, joined the group this past Fall. He has been ex-cited to bring his skills to the women of the community. Rice states, “I have been in train-ing mode for so long and now I am so happy to be able to see the impact on patient’s lives that my care provides”.

Drs. Gordon and Rice are certi-fied Female Pelvic Medicine and Reconstructive Surgery special-ists. Pelvic floor conditions, such as urinary and fecal incon-tinence and pelvic organ pro-lapse, are much more common among the population than once were thought. Their office provides an expert evaluation of the pelvic floor with office

exam, advanced urodynamics test-ing, pelvic floor and endoanal ultrasonography, and anal manometry. The Women’s Cen-ter provides women with the highly specialized care they need regarding these issues.

With offices in both Conyers and Stockbridge, the provid-ers at the Women’s Center feel privileged to provide both

general Gynecology and Urogynecol-ogy care to the women of their community.

For more information please contact us at either of our two locations: The Women’s Center at 2750 Owens Drive, Suite A in Conyers, 678-413-4644 or at 140 Eagles Spring Court in Stockbridge, 770-302-0878.

By Trent Rice, MDThe Women’s Center

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HEART HEALTH

Urogynecology and Gynecological Surgery- Well Women Health Care and Comprehensive Annual Exams- Pap Smears, Breast Exams, and In-Office Ultrasounds - Full range of Contraception Options- Menopausal Management –Traditional and Alternative- Adolescent and Pediatric Gynecology- Infertility Workups- Hormone Replacement Therapy- Bladder Problems and Incontinence- Treatment for Fibroids, Endometriosis, - Abnormal Bleeding, and Ovarian Cysts - Osteoporosis Screening and Treatment- Screening for Sexually Transmitted Diseases.

PROCEDURES WE PROVIDE• DaVinci Robotics Gynecological Surgery• Traditional Abdominal Hysterectomy, Vaginal Hysterectomy, and Laparo- scopic Assisted Hysterectomy• Myomectomy for Fibroid Tumors• In-office ESSURE Tubal Ligation• Laparoscopic Surgery for Ovarian Problems, Endometriosis, Tubal and Adhesive Diseases• Hysteroscopic Surgery• Colposcopies for Abnormal Pap Smears and LEEP Procedures• Repair of Pelvic Prolapse, Relaxation and Surgery for Bladder and Bowel Leakage• In-office Endometrial Ablation for • Excessive Menstrual Bleeding• Laser Surgery

Providing Individualized Care for Women

CONYERS 2750 Owens Drive Suite A678-413-4644

STOCKBRIDGENewly Expanded Office 140 Eagles Spring Court770-302-0878

A better healthcare experience

Please visit our website at womenscenterga.comfor all the information you need about our office!

Appointments readily available that will fit into your busy

schedule.

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STEPHANIE GORDON, MD

MARCIA HARMON, CNM

TRENT RICE, MD

LAN VU, NP

MARIA EPLING, NP

MOST MAJOR MEDICAL INSURANCE ACCEPTED



PSYCHIATRIC CARE

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Rockdale Psychiatric helps women suffering with PMS-related depressionBy Beth Slaughter SextonStaff Correspondent

Depression–something is not working properlyThere are 3 neurotrans-mitters that are theo-rized to contribute to symptoms of depression:

Serotonin

Norepinephrine

Dopamine

The causes of depression are not fully understood. Genetic, biological, environmental, and psychological factors may also contribute to the development of depression.

Timing is the biggest clue in determining whether the depression a woman experiences is related to her monthly cycle or something else. Depression is a symptom many women experience during their menstruating years. What separates PMS- (premenstrual syn-drome) related depression from other types of depression is often the timing of the symptoms.

Dr. Annamarie Paulsen, M.D., of Rockdale Psychiatric Associates treats patients experi-encing a range of conditions, including those experiencing PMS-related depression.

Double-board certified in child and adult psychiatry, Paulsen has served men, women and children through her work in the medi-cal field for 40 years. Thirty of those years have been as a mental health professional.

Paulsen sees many female patients with de-pression and helps determine if PMS plays a role in their condition. While more than 150 different symptoms have been attributed to PMS, the trademark of PMS-related depres-sion is its occurrence during the two weeks before the onset of menstruation. Women who have PMS-related depression often say they gain relief from their symptoms once their menstrual flow begins.

Paulsen strongly encourages women to seek help for their depression and said treatment is available for those suffering with the PMS-related condition, as well as those experienc-ing other types of depression.

Clinical depression, which is medically diagnosed as major depression lasts more than two weeks and is often accompanied by feelings of hopelessness and helplessness. Of-ten associated with being unable to perform daily tasks at work, clinical depression can also affect a person’s social interaction and bring about a loss of interest in activities they once enjoyed.

According to the National Institutes of Health (NIH), many women in their

reproductive years experience some mood, behavioral or physical symptoms in the week prior to menses. Variability exists in the level of symptoms that some women experience, but the NIH states that for an estimated

5-8 percent of premenopausal women, work or social functioning are affected by severe premenstrual syndrome. Many women in this group meet the diagnostic criteria for premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD). Among those who suffer from PMDD, mood and behavioral symptoms such as irritability, depressed mood and tension dominate.

Even though depression can be a frequent occurrence among women, doctors say many patients feel embarrassed and even isolated when it comes to discussing their symptoms. Medical experts warn how important it is for women to talk to their doctor if they are experiencing a loss of appetite, nervous-ness, inability to complete daily activities or insomnia.

PMDD can be a disabling and severe exten-sion of PMS. While both conditions have physical and emotional symptoms, doctors say PMDD causes extreme mood shifts that can result in damaged relationships and problems at work. Symptoms usually begin 7-10 days before a woman’s period begins in both PMS and PMDD and continue for several days. Both conditions may also cause fatigue, changes in sleep and eating habits, breast tenderness and bloating.

The NIH reports emotional and physical symptoms are common premenstrual com-plaints from women. For the majority, such symptoms are mild. For a smaller group, such symptoms can be of sufficient severity to result in negative consequences for their home, social and work lives, the NIH states. Of major concern to many is the effect the illness has on their family and social relation-ships with some saying “life is not worth living.”

According to the NIH, in approximately 15 percent of symptomatic women, such feelings result in suicide attempts. Given the total length of time that women experience symptoms-seven days per month on average throughout their reproductive years-as well as the illness’ prevalence, the illness burden of PMDD is similar to that of dysthymic disorder and other common psychiatric conditions.

Area women can get help with PMS-related depression and many other conditions from Paulsen, who opened Rockdale Psychiatric Associates in Conyers more than 22 years ago. For more information, please call Rock-dale Psychiatric Associates at 770-922-0255.


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WorriedAbout Your Family?

We offer effective counseling treatment for adults, teens and their families, helping them cope with and overcome the causes and symptoms of mental health challenges both today and down the road.To arrange an initial consultation, please contact us today.A proven non-drug treatment for depression

Is depression or anxiety taking a toll on your life?

Annamarie Paulsen, MDAdult, Child & Adolescent Psychiatry

Rockdale Psychiatric Associates1397 Manchester Dr. NE

Conyers, Ga. 30012

770-922-0255



CHIROPRACTIC

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Over the years we at Thacker Chiro-practic Clinic have been fortunate enough to treat some exceptional athletes. We showcase pictures of these champions on a wall in our new office, where they give us a chance to share in their success. We call it the wall of fame. Triathletes, cyclists, run-ners, equestrian competitors, and athletes of all sorts have been effectively treated for a variety of conditions ranging from rota-tor cuff syndrome, elbow pain, hip pain, plantar fasciitis, knee pain, Iliotibial band syndrome, along with more typical neck, mid back or low back pain, related to the high level of training in their sport.

We’re all prone to those same conditions as a result of much less note worthy activi-ties in our daily lives. Repetitive movements (called cumulative trauma disorder), pos-tural bad habits, over exertion, and injury from weekend warrior activities, create the same aches and pains that world-class ath-letes have. The end result is pain producing scar tissue or fibrosis at the site of injury, as well as potential painful conditions in areas removed from the injury site because

of changes in the way your body moves as a result of the initial condition.

Postural tension sitting at your computer terminal, repetitive movement from long sessions of typing, or working with your arms extended overhead, can create the same type of shoulder and neck pain that competitive athletes develop as a result of their training.

We are not your typical chiropractic office. Our treatment approach includes the recognition that complete recovery involves addressing all aspects of your pain, including this painful fibrosis and associ-ated movement loss. We utilize traditional effective chiropractic treatment options accumulated over 30 years of practice, as well as the latest soft tissue therapy for these often overlooked fibrotic changes in the soft tissues that are at the root of your reoccur-ring pain.

Active Release Technique is at the center of this approach. Active Release involves the application of gentle hands on specific movements that “release” these areas of muscle, tendon, ligament or joint move-

ment restriction, to restore normal movement and remove pain. This approach is effective for virtually any area of your body, including those condi-tions mentioned above, as well as many others.

Injury or condition specific exercise is also a big part of your recovery that you can use to speed and maximize your recovery. Our new rehabilita-tion area gives us the ability to train you in all you need to know to allow you to help yourself achieve your best recovery result.

We’re happy to work with your primary care physician or pain management special-ist to get your best outcome. Please feel free to investigate Active Release Technique at www.activerelease.com. While you’re there look up Dr.’s Mitch and Steve under the “meet our instructors” tab.

We also perform injury prevention seminars, physical demand assessments, and

job specific pre-employment biomechanical examinations for industry. If you are at a company that would like to learn how we can help reduce your workers compensa-tion exposure through injury prevention and early treatment intervention, please call our office.

Call today at 770-860-8333 to see if we can help, whether you’re a world class athlete or just want to be treated like one.

Wall of Fame

770-860-8333

Neck PainBack PainSciatica

Headaches

Tennis ElbowGolfers Elbow

IT Band SyndromePlantar Fasciitis

Rotator Cuff SyndromeCarpal Tunnel Syndrome

Knee PainSports Injuries

Dr. Mitchel ThackerBoard Certified

Chiropractic Orthopedist

Dr. Steven ThackerBoard Certified Chiropractic

Sports Physician

THACKER CHIROPRACTICE F F E C T I V E T R E AT M E N T F O R :

Now Accepting AutoAccident Patients

• Personalized Exercise & Rehabilitation Program

• Industry Injury Prevention ProgramsMost Insurance Plans Accepted

2360

97-1

1927 Hwy. 138 • Suite 500 • Conyers 30013

Call today for a free consultation to see if we can help!

We utilize all standard chiropractic methods, plus the most advanced soft tissue treatments including, Active Release Technique (ART), and Graston Technique.



HOME HEALTH CARE

Rockdale Medical Center receives grant to help keep people Healthy at HomeThanks to an $85,000 grant by way of the Hospi-tal Authority of Rockdale County (HARC) through the Rockdale Coalition, Rockdale Medical Center patients will benefit this year through a new program called Healthy at Home, a recent turn in health care that medical experts call the “wave of the future.”

“Benny (Atkins) had looked into this community para-medic program and done some research on it,” Facie Goodman, Rockdale Coalition coordinator said. “He approached the hospital and us on it and said, ‘What about this?’ He’s the one who put it all together.”

Atkins, with the National Emer-gency Medical Service (EMS) serving Rockdale County, had heard about the program that uses paramedics to assist patients at risk for readmission to the hospital and who are in need of help after they get home trying to manage their own care.

“The patients we’re targeting are patients who go to the emergency room because either they don’t have a primary doctor or that is where they go for their health care or emergency,” Goodman said.

“The objective of Healthy at Home is to keep folks healthy and help them manage a chronic condition rather than come in and out of the emergency room,” according to Jacquelyn Paynter, director of case management for

Rockdale Medical Center. “The hospital case manager identifies the patients who are at risk for readmission when they’re in the hospital. Those patients are then referred to the National EMS paramedics and the paramed-ics arrange a home visit with the patients.

“...Because they’re paramedics, they can evaluate the patients, do a home safety check and are able to review the patients’ medica-tion and their plan of care. They can help guide the patient about their medications and treatments and appointments with physi-cians they should follow up with in the community. They’re able to actually administer treatment within the scope and practice of paramedics.”

Paynter said paramedics are already familiar with many of the patients because they trans-port them to the hospital in an ambulance.

“It’s the wave of the future,” Payn-ter said. “It has been demonstrat-

ed in some areas of the country...so we brought this to Rockdale County.”

“There’s an opportunity to strengthen the collaboration with the physicians,” Paynter said. “It is something we are seeking in order for us to make appointments for these patients with the physi-cians.”

The Healthy At Home program started in January and Paynter said hospital caseworkers have been referring patients into the program each week.

“The goal of the program is to serve 100 individuals this year,” she said. “...When a patient comes to our hospital, our case manager identifies patients who are good candidates and talks to the physi-cian and makes the referral to the paramedics. A day or two after the patient leaves the hospital, the paramedics make an appointment and go to their home.”

Goodman said the Rockdale Coalition is excited about the

program and its benefits to the community.

“It’s a great collaborative,” she said. “We’ve been working together with the hospital staff and they are just wonderful. We are greatly impressed with the paramedics and services. They’re not just doing a job, but are very compassionate. Some of these (sick) folks are just stranded at home. The only place they know to go to is the emergency room. We’re in the

beginning stages, but we’re off to a great start. We’re hoping it proves what we think-that if folks can get some services, they don’t have to be using the emergency room all the time and if we get them primary care, their health will improve.”

Goodman said patients referred to the Healthy at Home para-medic program receive support in a number of ways.

“The goal is to get these people as healthy as possible so they don’t have to make emergency trips to the hospital,” Goodman said.

“We’ve had 11 referrals thus far. About 80 percent of those we have been able to offer support-either medicine or a primary care doctor. We’re trying to hook up with doctors in the community...”

“We’re very proud of this and would like for the physicians and public to be aware that we have these services,” Paynter said of the Healthy at Home program.

By Beth Slaughter SextonStaff Correspondent

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Rockdale Medical Center and Rockdale Physician Practices. Right Care. Right Here.

www.rockdalemedicalcenter.org

678.609.6282 678-609-4912 Conyers770-787-5600 Covington

(New) Brown Bridge Location 678-625-4441

678.609.4913770-788-1778

770-922-3522770.278.0154 678.413.7738678.609.4927

Conyers Medical Clinic 770-922-1880

Andrew S. Harper, MDGeneral Surgeon 770-922-4024

Mutha Kuttappan, MD 770-788-7777

Internal Medicine Associates of Rockdale 770-922-3023

Premier Internal Medicine Associates770-787-5600 Covington770-464-2540 Social Circle



URGENT CARE

Rockdale Medical Center opens second urgent care facility

Rockdale Medical Center will open a second urgent care facility on Feb. 23, to serve patients in Rockdale, Newton and surrounding counties. Located on Highway 212 in the Brown Bridge Medical Plaza in Covington, the newest office will see patients Monday through Friday from noon to 8 p.m. and will soon open on Saturdays from 8-5 p.m. and Sundays from 11 a.m.-4 p.m.The new facility will be staffed with nurse practitioners who have worked previously either at the Rockdale Medical Center emergency department or with Grady urgent care.“We want this facility to not only be the extension of physician practices in Rockdale, Newton and surrounding counties, but also for people who live in this area who need quick access for an emergent situation or to have access to providers with whom they can feel confident in establishing care,” according to Terry Potts.Potts, who is practice administrator for the new facility as well as Bridgewater Family Practice said the physicians at Bridgewater will oversee the nurse practitioners at Brown Bridge Urgent Care.When should a patient visit a Georgia Primary and Urgent Care facility?“If your problem is not life-threatening or risking disability, but you are concerned and you cannot see your doctor soon

enough, this is when you would go to an urgent care facility,” Jonathan Henderson, M.D. a physician at Bridgewater said, adding that such problems might include a sore throat, ear ache, acute illness, sprains, minor cuts and other such conditions.“Emergency rooms are for when you quickly need care and is through calling 911 when you need the emergency team to come to you right away or in some cases, transported by you or a family member,” the doctor said. “Difficulty breathing, fainting, severe chest pain or pressure, suddenly unable to speak, see, walk or more are just a few of the symptoms that would require emergency room care and the equipment that is accessible to take care of you.”Henderson said urgent care facilities are not meant to take the place of a patient’s physician, but are there to provide care when the physician’s office is closed or a patient is unable to get an appointment in a time frame they desire.Potts said the urgent care facilities not only serve as the extension of a physician’s office when people are unable to see their primary care physician, but the facility offers an opportunity for patients to establish care with one of the many physicians within the Rockdale Physician Practice Group.Cheryl Raper is practice administrator for Georgia Primary and Urgent Care on Sigman Road, the other Rockdale Medical Center urgent care facility. Founded in

Conyers in 2012, by Dr. Andrew Smith and Randy Riner, P.A., Georgia Primary and Urgent Care welcomes walk-in patients needing help with all types of problems. Among conditions doctors often handle are sore throats, ear aches, allergic reactions, sports physicals, Department of Transportation physicals, workers’ compensation exams, lacerations, sprains, strains and other minor emergencies.Smith is board certified by the American Board of Internal Medicine. He has experience in treating all types of conditions, including high blood pressure, high cholesterol, sore throats, allergies, rashes, the flu and many other ailments and conditions. A graduate of King College with a degree in history, Smith attended Columbia Theological Seminary. While working as a pastor, Smith volunteered as an emergency medical technician during which time he was moved to pursue a medical career. He enrolled in Mercer School of Medicine and did his residency at Georgia Baptist, now known as Atlanta Medical Center.Riner is a 1976 graduate of the Physicians’ Assistant Program from the Medical College of Georgia. He has experience in

family practice, internal medicine,

surgery, obstetrics/gynecology, orthopedics

and pediatrics.Dr. Benjamin Fernando,

M.D., also takes care of patients at Georgia Primary

and Urgent Care. Certified in family medicine, Fernando attended medical school at St. George’s University School of Medicine and did his residency at the University of Mississippi Medical Center in Jackson, Miss. He is a member of the American Medical Association, Mississippi State Medical Association and American Academy of Family Physicians.He sees patients ages 2 and older and treats such chronic illnesses as diabetes, hypertension, hyperlipidemia and others, as well as being certified in doing Botox injections and Juviderm fillers.Georgia Primary and Urgent Care also offers such primary care services as hyperlipidemia, hypertension, diabetes and wellness physicals.Georgia Primary and Urgent Care is located at 1301 Sigman Road, Suite 230 in Conyers. Georgia Primary and Urgent Care Brown Bridge is located at 7138 Highway 212, Suite A in Covington.


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Rockdale PhysicianPRactices

Remarkable People. Remarkable Medicine.



HEALTH INSURANCE

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Long term care dilemmaFor the most part, prudent individuals insure things or situations that could leave them liable for large sums of money. Typically, one would not think of leaving their home, if it were uninsured; or drive their car without auto coverage; but so many people don’t protect against the more likely occurrence of needing long-term care. The odds of needing long term care in one’s lifetime are fifty percent. It is also surprising to note that that roughly half of all long term care happens to individuals under the age of sixty five.Individuals often think that their “major medical “ cover-age will cover long term care;

however it will only cover skilled care. When one needs custodial or unskilled care, only long term care policies will cover that. At costs of

$25,000per year and up for assisted livings facilities and $40,000 per year and up for skilled nursing homes it is easy to see how one’s nest egg

could dwindle very rapidly. The consequences of unpro-tected long term care needs can be devastating on the entire family financially, emo-tionally and physically. Hav-ing a long term care policy in place is one of the most beautiful ways of extending your love and thoughtfulness to your children and grand-children. Call today to find out how affordable this cover-age really is for you and your loved ones.

Sheridan & AssociatesRhonda Sheridan RN BSN Independent Broker Agent Phone: 770.760.9474

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Health Insurance Needs?We’re here to help.

Call us to find out what health coverage plans are still available in ‘off season” to protect you and your family.

Rhonda SheridanRN, BSN, CSA, CLTC

Independent Broker Agent

Afraid you will have large out of pocket expenses before you reach your deductible? We can help. Also We have “Gap” plans available to help out on

health expenses incurred before you reach your deductible.

Group and Individual Medicare Plans & Part DLife & Long Term Care Coverage

770-760-9474

Call for a free review & consultation.House Calls and Evening and

Saturday appointments available.

983 O’Kelly St. Conyers, GA 30012


The Eye Center provides professional service with hometown focusProviding eye care to Rockdale County area residents since 1998, Dr. David Grosswald and his staff at The Eye Center continue to stay on top of the latest developments in vision health and treatment. Among a long list of vision needs addressed by the center are dry eye disease, diabetes care, advances in contact lens and eyeglass technol-ogy and many other services and treatments.Grosswald, an optometrist who graduated from Southern College of Optometry in Tennessee, has been practicing optometry since 1992. He specializes in fitting con-tact lenses for many complex eye conditions, including keratoconus and dry eye syndrome. Grosswald also specializes in orthokeratology, non-surgical vision correction that allow for glasses free vision during the day!Located at 1192 Dogwood Drive in Conyers, The Eye Center recently converted to a private practice where Grosswald and his staff help patients manage a range of eye diseases and conditions.Grosswald and his team stay at the forefront of the latest in advanced diagnostic technology and vision correction products.Dr. Brian Healey has joined the staff at The Eye Center after mov-ing with his wife and two children to Social Circle. A native of New York, Healey graduated from the University of Scranton in Scran-ton, Pa., with a bachelor of science degree in 1995. He moved to Atlanta after graduating from the Pennsylvania College of Optom-etry in Philadelphia in 1999.Healey is a member of both the American Optometric Associa-tion and the Georgia Optometric Association.

As the founder of The Eye Center, Grosswald is a Georgia native, having grown up in Sandy Springs and attending North Springs High School and the University of Georgia. After he graduated Southern College of Optometry in Memphis, Tenn., the doctor began looking for a place to open his practice.“I chose Conyers because of how wonderful the people are,” he said, adding that the staff at The Eye Center has worked together for more than 14 years. “We are very proud of the level of service we provide.”The doctor said his staff enjoys serving its hometown residents and providing personable service to patients.The Eye Center offers a range of vision care and treatment services, including one of Grosswald’s specialties, orthokeratology. Ortho-keratology uses specially designed vision retainers to gently reshape the front surface of the cornea to eliminate or reduce nearsighted-ness or astigmatism and the need for reading glasses.The doctor explained the principle is similar to the use of a dental retainer an orthodontist might use to realign crooked teeth. Vision re-tainers are similar to contact lenses and are only worn at night while the patient sleeps. The retainers are removed upon awakening to provide clear vision without using glasses or contact lenses.The main purpose of orthokeratol-ogy is to be free from both contact lenses and eyeglasses during waking hours. Multiple studies show that orthokeratology can dramatically slow the progres-sion of nearsightedness which has become epidemic with our young patients. Such treatment is con-sidered especially helpful for sports enthusiasts or those who work in

dusty or dirty environments. For others, orthokeratol-ogy offers the appeal of being free from cor-rective lenses during the day.According to The Eye Cen-ter, orthokera-tology is about half the cost of laser vision correction surgery and does not involve any post-operative pain and unlike laser surgery, it is reversible. First, a comprehen-sive eye exam is done. A corneal topographer is used to obtain a computerized “map” of the cornea’s shape. This information is placed into the orthokeratology computer software and a diagnostic retainer is fit in the office.The Eye Center also helps patients suffering with dry eye syndrome (DES). These patients experience an inadequate amount of tear film on their eyes. Those who experi-ence chronic dry eyes may be di-agnosed with keratoconjunctivitis sicca, an eye disease. To treat DES, an eye care professional must first diagnose the cause.DES can be caused by a number of factors ranging from dry air to underlying medical conditions. In many cases, DES patients experience problems creating and regulating a substance called tear film. Tear film is responsible for natural lubrication of the eye and is made of three basic layers. Issues with any of those layers can lead to chronic DES. Certain medica-tions can also cause or contribute to DES.Treatment for DES is varied and depends on each patient. Once the

cause is diagnosed, a treatment reg-imen can be arranged. The severity of the condition also determines the treatment. DES treatments may include artificial tears; omega 3 supplements; a prescription eye drop that helps increase tear pro-duction and reduce inflammation; “tear savers”, which involves plug-ging the puncta, or the openings of the channels through which tears are drained for the eyes. Plugging the puncta can slow tear draining and keep eyes moist for longer periods of time.Among the many other vision care services and treatments provided at The Eye Center are custom contact lenses, treatment for glaucoma, macular degeneration and eye care help for patients suffering with diabetes, high blood pressure and other conditions. In addition, the center offers electrodiagnostic test-ing which measures the function of a patient’s retina and optic nerve, allowing the doctor to diagnose certain disorders of the retina and brain. To measure the electrical activity, health care professionals explain electrodes are attached to a patient’s skin on the head or near the eyes and is non-invasive and painless.For more information or to make an appointment at The Eye Center, call 770-860-1919.


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OPTOMETRY


OPTOMETRY

Mon. thru Fri.: 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM • Sat: 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM • Sun: Closed

The Eye Center - Conyers, GA has been serving the Conyers community since 1998. As the leading provider of vision care and optometry services in the Conyers community our eye doctors and experienced staff will continue to provide our community with the best eye care.

Our experienced eye doctors are specialized in the treatment and diagnosis of a variety of eye problems and eye diseases. Dr. Grosswald and his team use advanced diagnostic technology and vision correction products.

www.theeyecenterconyers.com

1192 Dogwood Dr. SE • Conyers, GA 30012770-860-1919

Store Hours

Dr. David Grosswald, Dr. Brian Healey and Staff



PODIATRY

Laser therapy has been used effectively for many years, but advances in technology have produced the next generation of laser therapy with the new MLS Therapy Laser, which uses specific wavelengths of light to treat painful and debilitating conditions such as tendon, ligament and soft tissue injuries, heel pain, Achilles tendonitis, neurological pain and arthritis to name just a few. Laser therapy is painless with treatments usually lasting 15-20 minutes. Most patients see positive results in just 1-3 treatments. When a physical condition or injury affects mobility or quality of life, there is one goal: a rapid return to

every-day activities. Associated Foot & Ankle Specialists now have the most advanced equipment on the market to deliver these results; results that include a very rapid disappearance of pain, strong anti-inflammatory effect, and immediate improvement of local blood circulation. More and more, patients are looking for effective treatment options that are less invasive, require fewer medications, have no side effects, provide rapid results and speed the healing process. Laser therapy provides us with an opportunity to meet the needs of our patients and offer the highest level of care possible.

MLS Laser Therapy has been cleared by the FDA. Low Level Laser Therapy has been proven successful as evidenced by extensive and credible studies conducted by our country’s finest institutions including Harvard University. Associated Foot & Ankle Specialists, P.C., is proud to be on the medical technological forefront by offering the MLS Laser Therapy to our patients. We have invested in the very best technology as a key component of our continuing quest to offer our patients the finest in health care.

MLS Laser Therapy - The Wave of the Future in Foot and Ankle Pain Management

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WALK AWAY FROMFOOT & ANKLE PAIN!WALK AWAY FROM

FOOT & ANKLE PAIN!• Dr. G. Wayne Newman, Jr. D.P.M.

• Board Certified, American Board of Podiatric Surgery• Fellow, American College of Foot & Ankle Surgeons

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In your lifetime, you’ll walk a distance averaging three trips around the earth. Some of the shoes we wear while doing this walking often submit our feet to nothing short of anguish. With demands like these put on our feet day after day, it’s only natural that we occasionally experi-ence some sort of foot or ankle problem. In each of these cases, ignoring the problem could be an invitation to greater pain or additional complications. Call today to schedule an appointment and discuss treatment options.

Same and next day appointments avaliable!

L to R Back: Cassie,Dr. Newman, Deborah,

L to R Front:Kasey, Nikki, Cindy

www.associatedfootandankle.com



HOSPICE CARE/BANKING

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The Caregiver’s Role Severe heart disease once was quickly fatal. New medications and better symptom management has improved prognosis. People now live for five or more years after diagnosis. Unfortunately, HF is eventually still a fatal illness with an unpredictable course. Most people experience serious illness with periods of time where nothing seems to change. Eventually, symptoms will worsen. HF will eventually cause death if no other serious illness occurs.

Most people with advanced HF will eventually need a caregiver because they can no longer manage alone. Caregivers may be family, friends or long-time companions. Family caregivers may live with the patient but many do not and may have to depend on friends, neighbors or paid help to assist with the care of the patient. All caregivers need to have information about the patient’s illness, current treatments, and treatment preferences. If you are the primary caregiver, please share information with any others who may share in the care of your loved one.

Help for the Caregivers

1. Ask the nurse what will my loved one

need and how can I help.

2. Request the Hospice social worker provide available community resources.

3. Get information from the national organization. All kinds of valid information is available on the Internet. A librarian can help you if you don’t have access.

4. Some groups have toll-free numbers.(Add actual websites and the toll free number)

5. Become something of an expert on the particular illness affecting your loved one.

6. Ask family and friends to help – don’t try to do it all yourself.

Living with Uncertainty is Difficult

You can help manage the disease by paying attention to certain symptoms, following some basic guidelines and staying in touch with your health care team. Caregivers do much to maintain a good quality of life for the patient. Caregivers also need to watch out for their own emotional and physical well-being. We are here for you at Pruitt Health Hospice.

A healthy lifestyle can lead to healthy finances1. Health requires organization skills. Being healthy financially and personally requires you to be organized — no ifs, ands, or buts. Just like you need to be organized with your finances, you also have to be organized about your diet and fitness, and that requires discipline. So does managing debt and paying bills.2. A healthy lifestyle saves you trips to the doctor. A healthy lifestyle pays off dividends in the long run. If you eat healthy and work out regularly, odds are that you won’t get sick as often. Hence, you’ll save some big money on doctor visits and medications. 3. Healthy finances equals less stress. Let’s be honest. If you have a strong budget, you’re going to be less stressed about finances than someone who doesn’t. Exces-

sive stress has been linked to all sorts of unwanted conditions like depression and obesity.

4. Cutting unhealthy habits can be cost-effective. Vices like alcohol and cigarettes really add up, especially over the course of a year. Limiting your alcohol intake or eliminating it completely can save you a lot of money.

5. Healthy foods keep you — and your bank account — full. By eating high-fiber foods, you’ll curb hunger and avoid having to spend money on snacks. 6. Healthy finances open up new options for groceries. If your finances are healthy, you might be able to skip your local super-market next time and go green, either at Whole Foods or another healthy grocer.



EAR NOSE & THROAT/PHYSICAL THERAPY

Drayer Physical Therapy Institute (DPTI) is headquartered in Hummelstown, Pennsylvania and specializes in outpatient, orthopedic physical therapy. Our eighth center in Georgia has just recently opened in Covington. Located at 3122 Highway 278 NW, the center is open from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. weekdays and from 7 a.m. to noon Saturday and can be reached at 470-444-1609. The center specializes in in orthopedics, pre- and post-operative rehabilitation, and sports medicine. Physical therapist John Gerega is the center manager and serves as Drayer’s area manager for Georgia. The center staff also includes Covington resident Lauren Norman, a physical therapist who previously worked at Drayer’s Monroe, Ga., center. At DPTI we feel that culture is paramount to our overall success. We understand the inherent value of the choices that we make. We do the small things, the extra things that are indicative of our absolute commitment to patient care. To give our patients the best care and service, we offer access to care within 24 hours of a referral, extended hours including evening and holiday hours and will work with all insurance companies.234699-1

Commitment to patient care key to physical therapy

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www.entspecialists.net

1370 Wellbrook Circle, Conyers, Georgia / 770-922-54584181 Hospital Drive, NE, Suite 102, Covington, Georgia / 770-385-0321

•DonaldCote,MD•AdamFrench,MD•ArthurTorsiglieri,MD,FACS•CooperBrown,PA-C•DonnaMcGough,F-AAA•KristynMeade,F-AAA•SusannShriver,CCC-A

ReSoundLINX™HearingAids-Theworld’ssmartesthearingaid-andtheworld’sfirstMadeforiPhonehearingaid-letsyouhearmoreofeverything.

– Complete Hearing Aids & Evaluation –

Let us help you rediscover your hearing.

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TODAY!

Hearing better with both earsThink of your hearing as a system, both ears and your brain- continu-ously taking in information from around you. This system is identi-fying the sounds around you and locating where they are coming from. Our brain has an amazing ability to sort through rapidly changing infor-mation and interpreting the sounds you hear. When we are listening in noisy or challenging environments, our brain should be able to locate where the sounds are coming from, and help to filter what’s important information, and what is not. Your brain is in charge of processing the sounds your ears take in.Hearing with one ear is like trying to see with one eye- it’s possible, but not very effective. That’s why people don’t wear monocles any more. We see so much better with balanced vision. To enjoy true balanced sound, BOTH ears must be functioning evenly. Without that balance, the brain may receive incomplete infor-mation. That’s why your Audiolo-

gist may recommend you wear two hearing aids. Research consistently shows we localize sounds better and we understand speech in background noise better when amplifying both ears. Also, hearing with both ears is actually less stressful!

Over 29 million Americans have some type of hearing loss; 20% in adults ages 48-59, and over 50% in adults over 75. Amplification leads to a better quality of life, by address-ing the issues of isolation, depression, marital problems, and memory prob-lems associated with hearing loss.

If you experience difficulty hearing, now is the time to schedule your appointment with one of our highly qualified, certified Audiologists. You may also wish to see a physician if you suspect one ear is worse than the other, or if you have noticed sudden hearing loss. Our Audiologist can guide you to the best solution for treatment. Call ENT Specialists today at 770-922-5458.

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HOME HEALTH

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Preventing hospital readmission with personalized care

Research shows that up to 25 percent of the people who are discharged from the hospital are readmitted within 30 days, and that many of these readmissions are preventable. FirstLight HomeCare uses a personalized approach known as Readmission Rescue to help clients prevent readmission. By having a caregiver focused on identifying symptoms and other clues that may signal a patient health problem related to their hospital stay, readmission can be reduced by quickly addressing the concern before hospitalization readmission is required. Through a detailed monitoring, reporting, and appropriate doctor intervention, health problems are

dealt with proactively so the patient gets the care he or she needs without going back to the hospital.Beginning by reviewing the hospital discharge instructions with the patient and his or her family, FirstLight HomeCar develops a personalized plan based on the patient’s diagnosis. Using this personalized, patient-fo-cused strategy, FirstLight HomeCare caregivers reduce hospital readmission by being available around the clock to help with the following items:• Special diet meal preparation,

exercise, and hydration• Medication reminders and

transportation to medical • appointments• Observation, measurement, and

monitoring of key condition indicators

• Early intervention (call to doctor)• Fall Prevention techniques• Outcome trending and data

along with client satisfaction reporting

Several of these factors, such as diet, medication and follow-up appointments can have a significant impact on a person’s recovery after leaving the hospital. Unfortunately, without personalized care from either

family or professional caregivers, it can be a challenge for a recently discharged patient to follow the discharge instructions. In cases where additional help is needed, FirstLight HomeCare can also recommend additional fee-based telehealth solutions like personal medication systems, remote vitals monitoring and medical alert systems.

By Ed Ukaonu, CEOFirstLight HomeCare of Atlanta



HEALTH INSURANCE

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The Financial TrackFor more than three decades, Jiles Parham has helped men and women in finding the right insur-ance, including critical care and long-term care insurance, which can assist those who need help at home or in an assisted living facility.

“I want to be everything I need to be to all my clients,” Parham said, adding that he always tells his clients, “I work for you, not the insurance companies.”

“I represent my clients when they have problems with insurance and I see them on a regular basis,” he said. “My strong point is pro-viding good service for my clients and making sure they’re covered.”

Parham said making sure a person or company’s insurance needs are covered is important particularly now.

“The health care act changed a lot of things,” he said. “...Major changes have been made in the health insurance industry with the onset of the Affordable Care Act. It is my belief that only through personal responsibility will we obtain health coverage that is best for us and for our family. Only through personal responsibility will we have a peace of mind that we will be protected from catastrophic expenses as a result of an accident, illness or death.”

Parham, a health and employee benefits specialist, also offers help with health, life, dental and long

term care insurance.

As an insurance professional for 34 years, including 30 years in brokerage services to the business community, Parham wrote mostly life insurance in the early years of his career. He qualified for the Million Dollar Round Table for seven years and obtained his Chartered Life Underwriters designation.

He has represented many com-panies and served on industry leaders association executive committees, as well as taken many seminars on estate plan-ning, advance sales and employee benefits.

Parham grew up in Georgia and as a young boy, he stocked shelves in a grocery store in Twin City. He remembers putting bags of

five-pound meal on the shelves that had as its slogan, “Second to None.” He said that is how he serves his clients and reminds them that he works for them and their needs. Parham founded The Financial Track in 1990.

For more information, contact Parham at 678-374-2821, or email him at [email protected].


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Group Health and Employee Benefits SpecialistIndividual Life, Health, Dental, and Disability

REMEMBER, IT IS YOUR MONEY...THE FINANCIAL TRACK

I WORK FOR YOU!

CALL ME TODAY! 678-374-2821 or cell 229-395-6243

Jiles Parham, CLU • [email protected] • thefinancialtrack.com



PHYSICAL THERAPY

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Therapeutic Solutions helps cancer survivors

Patients and doctors have long understood the benefits of physical therapy in recover-ing from back injuries, hip and leg surgeries and such, but cancer? Conyers’ Therapeutic Solutions’ oncology rehab program strives to do just that. With its 40 years of ortho-pedic and sports medicine rehab physical therapy experience, Therapeutic Solutions Inc. expanded the focus of its practice 16 years ago to pioneer the first outpatient oncology physical therapy and lymphedema program in Georgia.

“Advances in cancer treatments have had a tremendous influence on the longevity for cancer survivors,” says Angelo Rizzo, direc-tor of Therapeutic Solutions. “However, the surgeries, chemotherapy and radiation therapies commonly bring with it long last-ing, if not lifelong physical and psychologi-cal impairments that impact quality of life and physical functioning.”

Rizzo said that more than 70 percent of cancer survivors report they never return to their pre-cancer diagnosis quality of life.

“The most common of these side effects in-

clude cancer-related fatigue, weakness, pain, swelling, depression, anxiety, weight gain and cognitive impairments, such as memory loss,” Rizzo said.

Just a year after opening Therapeutic Solutions’ oncology rehab program, the company’s director himself was diagnosed with leukemia and had to undergo months of chemotherapy. Rizzo said it was not until that happened to him that he truly under-stood the devastating impact of cancer-related fatigue. It was also then he said he learned just how powerful an exercise program could be in alleviating fatigue and other side effects in allowing him to return to his usual 10-hour work day.

Now 14 years in complete remission of his leukemia, Rizzo says his personal and pro-fessional mission is to educate the medical and lay community of the value-added role of integrating physical therapy and exercise into every survivor’s treatment plan. He said that most of the top cancer centers in America are now introducing such therapy and exercise into their routine treatment plans.

According to the National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN), which is made up of physicians, nurses and research-

ers from the top cancer institutes in the country, anywhere from 78-94 percent of all survivors undergoing cancer treatment will experience debilitating cancer-related fatigue. NCCN also advocates exercise as the number one most effective interven-tion for cancer fatigue. Exercise has also been proven to eliminate or reduce other prevalent side effects such as nausea, poor appetite, weight loss and weight gain, weak-ness, osteoporosis, neuropathy, depression and anxiety.

The overall impact of these cancer treatment-induced physical and psychologi-cal impairments largely depends upon how quickly they are identified and how quickly they are treated, Rizzo explains. “The early involvement with an oncology physical therapist is so critical,” he added.

In establishing its out-patient oncology physical therapy and lymphedema program, Therapeutic Solutions set a goal to integrate physical therapy and exercise into cancer survivors’ cancer-treatment protocol to help alleviate and prevent the physical and psy-chological impacts of treatment side effects and to promote a lifetime of healthy living for the cancer survivor.

Another important role Therapeutic

Solutions plays in the cancer treatment plan is to offer an initial consultation and education session with women who are about to have mastectomy surgery or others who are about to embark on chemotherapy or radiation therapy treatment. Rizzo said this pre-operative/pre-treatment session “educates and empowers patients and their caregivers.” He said they learn valuable information on minimizing or preventing many treatment side effects, such as lymph-edema and cancer-related fatigue.

Rizzo said patients often say they didn’t think they needed to see a physical therapist before treatment, but after they do, they tell him it was an informative and helpful consolation that put them at ease and helped guide them with the journey ahead. He said they also tell him they are happy their physician was “proactive enough to send me here.”

“While your physicians are adding years to your life, Therapeutic Solutions’ physical therapy is here to add life to your years,” Rizzo says to those in the oncology rehab program.

For more information about programs offered at Therapeutic Solutions Inc., call 770-922-2420.


Director: Angelo J. Rizzo, MS, PT, CLTCertified lymphedema therapist and oncology rehab specialist. Former V.P. of Oncology Section of the American Physical Therapy Association.

Former President of the Georgia Chapter of the National Osteoporosis Foundation.

THERAPEUTIC SOLUTIONS, INCSPECIALITY PHYSICAL THERAPY AND CERTIFIED LYMPHEDEMA CLINIC

Email: [email protected] www.therapeuticsolutions.com770.922.24201501 MILSTEAD ROAD, STE 170

CONYERS, GA 30012

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PHYSICAL THERAPY SPECIALITIES:Oncology Rehab

Cancer Fatigue TreatmentsCertified Lymphedema TherapyBreast Cancer Pre-habilitation

Orthopedic RehabSports Rehab

Pulmonary RehabBalance Training



SENIOR LIVING/HEALTH & FINANCES

Saving money can reduce stressinancial concerns, including not having enough money to pay bills or worrying that money will run out, are a leading cause of stress. Finding new ways to save money can help reduce these feelings of stress and improve quality of life.According to the YouGov poll for the Institute of Financial Planning and National Savings and Invest-ments in the United Kingdom, roughly two-thirds of people worry about money. An American Psychological Association poll indicates 80 percent of Americans state the economy is a significant cause of stress, while 83 percent of women and 78 percent of men are stressed about money.Stress can contribute to a variety of health ailments, including anxi-ety, depression and cardiovascular problems. Stress can also worsen preexisting conditions. Finding

ways to reduce stress may lead to a longer, happier life.One way to reduce stress is to take control of your finances so that money issues do not compound stress. Finding a way to save more money might do the trick.Stop wasting food. The National Resources Defense Council says the average American discards as much as $43 worth of food each month.Put loose change to good use. Coins can quickly accumulate and add up to big bucks.Stop losing receipts. Who hasn’t delegated an ill-fitting item to the back of the closet because of a lost receipt? Make payments on time. Failure to make certain payments on time, particularly credit card bills, may incur interest charges.

How to eat as you ageAs people age, their dietary needs begin to change. Foods that were once staples of your diet as a youth may be restricted once you hit a certain age, while other foods you may have always avoided may now be necessary to fuel and support a healthy body.Vitamin DExtra vitamin D will be needed from foods and supplements. Vi-tamin D helps in neuromuscular and immune function and reduc-ing inflammation.Friendly fatsPeople over age 50 should increase their intake of unsaturated fats and reduce consumption of saturated fats. Increase protein

Look for lean sources of protein from fish and poultry. Beans are also a low-fat source of protein

that can help fulfill daily protein requirements.More fiber

Eating more fiber can help with digestive and intestinal problems, such as constipation. Fewer calories

With each passing year there is a decrease in the energy required to maintain body weight, so caloric intake should be adjusted accord-ingly.More water

The Mayo Clinic recommends around nine to 10 cups of bever-ages per day to remain hydrated.

Eating healthy and changing one’s diet is important as a person ages, as dietary needs at age 50 may be quite different from what they were at age 30.

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Ask us aboutfree Kasasa® checking!

Free Kasasa checking includes:• Cash back on debit card purchases*• No minimum balance to earn cash back• Plus, get refunds on ATM fees, nationwide!*

Kasasa.com/newtonfederalbank | (770) 786 • 7088

*Account transactions and activities may take one or more days to post and settle to the account and all must do so during the Monthly Qualification Cycle in order to qualify for the account’s rewards. The following activities do not count toward earning account rewards: ATM-processed transactions, transfers between accounts, debit and credit card purchases processed by merchants and received by Newton Federal Bank as ATM or PIN-based, signature based transactions and purchases made with non-Newton Federal Bank issued debit or credit cards. “Monthly Qualification Cycle” means a period beginning one (1) day prior to the first day of the current statement cycle through one (1) day prior to the close of the current statement cycle. When Kasasa Cash Back qualifications are met during a Monthly Qualification Cycle, you will receive (1) 3.00% cash back on up to a total of $9.00 PIN-based/signature-based debit and credit card purchases that post and settle to the account during that cycle period. A maximum of $9.00 cash back may be earned per Monthly Qualification Cycle. When Kasasa Cash Back qualifications are not met no cash back payments are made and ATM fees are not refunded. For eligible refunds, an ATM receipt must be presented within thirty (30) calendar days of transaction for reimbursements of individual ATM fees of $5.00 or higher. Kasasa Cash Back payments will be credited to your Kasasa Cash Back account on the last day of Statement Cycle. Rates and rewards are variable and may change after account is opened. Fees may reduce earnings. Account approval, conditions, qualifications, limits, timeframes, enrollments, log-ons and other requirements apply. $100.00 minimum deposit is required to open the account. Monthly access of online banking account, enrollment in online banking, receipt of electronic statements is a condition of this account. Enrollment in electronic services (e.g. online banking, electronic statements) and log-ons may be required to meet some of the account’s qualifications. Limit one account per primary social security number. There are no recurring monthly service charges or fees to open or close this account. Contact a Newton Federal Bank customer service representative for additional information, details, restrictions, processing limitations and enrollment instructions.



WOMEN'S HEALTH

Back pain in pregnancyBack pain, especially lower back pain, is very common in pregnancy. There are several causes for this increased pain. First, the uterus becomes larger and heavier the closer the woman is to her due date. To help balance these posture changes the lower back muscles must work harder and this can lead to pain, stiffness and sore-ness. Also, several hormones, such as progesterone, are increased during pregnancy and can relax the ligaments to allow loosening to prepare for birth. But, if the liga-ments become too loose the joints can become too flexible leading to increased back pain from too much mobility.

There are several things a pregnant woman can do to prevent back pain. The key is to be aware of how she sits, stands and moves. One key move-ment is to squat and bend her knees to pick things up rather than bending from the waist. Also, it is important to sit in chairs with good back support, or use a small pillow behind the low part of the back to decrease added strain. While sleeping, it’s best to lie on the side with one to two pillows between the legs and under the abdomen for support. This also helps to relieve pressure on the joints. Finally, wearing shoes with good arch support are highly recommended. Flat shoes often provide little support, while high heels can further shift the woman’s balance making her more likely to fall. A shoe with a good support is one of the best investments a pregnant patient can make.

If back pain still develops, despite adequate prevention techniques, there are several ways to ease the back pain. Regular exercise and staying active during pregnancy has been shown to reduce back pain. Back strengthening exercises help to decrease the laxity and provide better support. Water aerobics has also been proven to ease the pain. Another way to decrease inflammation is to take a hot bath or shower or apply a warm compress. Cold compresses are also recommended, but for no longer than several minutes as this may cause the muscles to reset and worsen the pain.

If the back pain persists despite exercise and heat, the consultation of a health care provider may be warranted. This is especially important if the pain is severe or persists for greater than two weeks. Other warning signs include fever, burning during urination or bleeding with concominent back pain. Your health care provider can order a maternity girdle or brace to support the weight of the abdomen, and growing fetus, to ease the tension on the back. Some physicians can perform special manipulation of the body to decrease the pain, these physicians are known as doctors of osteopathic medicine (DO).

Medical doctors (MD) and DO physicians both utilize evidence-based methods of diagnosis and treatments, including prescribing medication and performing surgery. Both types of physicians have the same educational

requirements and are examined by the same state licensing boards. One key difference in training is that osteopathic medical schools require up to 200

hours of manipulation training, placing emphasis on the musculoskel-etal system. This training adds an additional tool to the traditional

forms of diagnosis and treatment to provide care for patients.

Although low back pain is something that is often feared by pregnant woman, the right education, prevention, and treatment can turn an uncomfortable preg-

nancy into an enjoyable experience.

Dr. Jessie Bender completed her studies at The Lake Erie College of Osteo-pathic Medicine and her residency in Obstetrics and Gynecology at the Reading Hospital and Medical Center in Reading, Pennsylvania. If you are interested in osteopathic manipulation, please contact our office at Covington Women’s Health Specialists, LLC in Covington, Georgia.

By Jessie L. Bender, DO Covington Women’s Health Specialists, LLC

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Physician’s Pavilion at Newton Medical Center

4181 Hospital Drive,Suite 104 & 100, Covington

770.385.8954www.cwhs-larrimore.com

SURGICAL GYNECOLOGY • Hysterectomy • Laparoscopic Hysterectomy • Laparoscopy • HTA – Novasure• Minimally Invasive Surgical Services

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Covington Women’s Health Specialists, LLC

NOW ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS

OFFICE PROCEDURES• Hysteroscopy • Colposcopy• LEEP

SUITE DEVOTED TO MIDWIFERY CARE NORMAL AND HIGH RISK PREGNANCY• Family Centered Maternity Care • 3D/4D Ultrasound • Trial of Labor after Cesarean

COMPREHENSIVE WOMEN’S HEALTH CARE• Annual Exams • Infertility • Osteoporosis • Fibroids• HPV Testing and Vaccination• Abnormal Pap Smears • Endometriosis • Contraception Options • Menopause-HRT • Bio-identical Hormones • Osteopathic Manipulation

Delivering our Future,Building our Families and

Commitment to Our Community!

Cathy T. Larrimore, MD

Barbara L. Susin, CNM, MPH, MSN

Kerry G. Dewberry, WHNP

Jessie L. Bender, DO

Amy Denise Cochran, CNM, MSN

VISIT OUR WEBSITE & LIKE OUR FACEBOOK PAGE!



GASTROENTEROLOGY

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March is Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month Getting screened for the disease could save your lifeColorectal cancer is the second leading cause of cancer deaths in the United States, with over 56,000 people expected to die from this disease this year and more than 140,000 new cases will be diagnosed.

Colorectal cancer is a silent killer that rarely produces symptoms early on and can sneak up on you without warning. Alarmingly, about 75 percent of all new cases occur in men and women with no known risk factors for the disease, other than their age.

The good news is that colorectal cancer is one of the most pre-ventable cancers, especially when detected early. Screenings and screening guidelines vary de-

pending on the individual. Men and women over the age of 50 are considered at “average risk” for developing colorectal cancer and should begin getting screen-ings beginning at age 50 but people with a higher than average risk for the disease should start screenings before age 50. The key to stopping this killer is early detection.Colorectal cancer is cancer that starts in either the colon or the rectum, which make up the large intestine. Often referred to as colon cancer, colorectal can-cer can begin anywhere in the large intestine and the majority of colorectal cancers begin as abnormal growths called polyps that develop inside the colon

or rectum and become cancers over a long period of time. Colorectal cancer screenings help find and remove polyps before they become cancerous.Our physicians at East Atlanta Gastroenter-ology are experts in performing diagnos-tic and therapeutic endoscopies. An endoscopy is a non-invasive exam of the digestive tract using a small fiberoptic camera or “endoscope.” Endoscopies are typically performed under IV sedation in an outpatient

setting, and last no more than 30 minutes. Call us today at 770-922-0505 to schedule your colorectal cancer screening - it could save your life.

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7229 Wheat StreetCovington, GA 30014

1269 Wellbrook CircleConyers, GA 30012

1000 Cowles Clinic Way | Cypress Bldg., Suite C-300 | Greensboro, GA 30642770-922-0505

WWW.EASTATLANTAGASTRO.COM

Specializing in Digestive Diseases and Nutrition:n Colorectal Cancer Screening and Preventionn Esophageal and Swallowing Disordersn Gastro Esophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)n Inflammatory Bowel Diseasen Pancreatic and Biliary Disordersn Non-Invasive Hemorrhoid Therapy

Fred A. Levin, MDFACP, FACG

Karen L. Weiss-Schorr, MD

David N. Socoloff, DO

Razvi M. Razack, MD

A. Steven McIntosh,MD, FACG

Monitored Anesthesia Care for Your Endoscopy


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Eastside Internal Medicine, LLCBoard Certified, ameriCan Board of internal mediCine

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Syed WasimMD, MPH

Farhana Quasem MD

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Serving rockdale & newton area over 16 Years!

• Hypertension/Diabetes/High Cholesterol • Women’s Wellness • Pap Smear • Drug Screens

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HEMATOLOGY/ONCOLOGY

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5 Simple Rules to Reduce Your Risk of Colorectal Cancer Courtesy of Northside Hospital Cancer Institute

Colorectal cancer, or cancer of the large intestine, is the second leading cause of cancer death in the U.S. However, it’s also one of the most detectable cancers and it responds well to early treatment.Your risk of developing colorec-tal cancer is a combination of controllable and uncontrollable factors. People older than 50 and those who have a family history of colorectal, ovarian or breast cancer have a higher risk of de-veloping the disease than others. Luckily, there are many things you can do to reduce your risk of developing colorectal cancer.According to the American

Cancer Society, regular screen-ings and some lifestyle changes can help prevent colorectal cancer. Modern technology makes screening for the disease much easier (and less uncomfort-able), but there are many other things you can do on your own to reduce your risk of developing the disease. In fact, researchers believe that eating a nutritious diet, exercising and controlling body fat could prevent nearly 45 percent of colorectal cancer cases.Dramatically reduce your risk of getting colorectal cancer by fol-lowing these five simple rules:1. Get moving. Physical activity is a powerful weapon against colorectal cancer. In a recent study, exercise was linked to a 24-percent-decreased risk of

developing the disease. Aim for at least 30 minutes of physical activity, five days a week.2. Eat healthy. Adhering to a healthy, low-fat diet with plenty of fiber and at least five servings of fruits and veggies each day can dramatically reduce your risk of developing cancer. Also, limit red and processed meats – they are linked to an increased cancer risk.3. Get screened. Your recovery largely depends on the stage of your cancer, which is why early detection is so important. Stage I colorectal cancer has a five-year survival rate of 74 percent. Whereas, there is only a 6 per-cent survival rate after five years for a Stage IV diagnosis. Begin-ning at age 50, schedule routine

colonoscopies at least every 10 years.4. Manage your vices. Smoking and drinking radically con-tribute to your risk of develop-ing colorectal cancer. People who consume more than seven alcoholic beverages a week have a 72-percent-increased risk, whereas long-term smokers have up to a 164-percent-increased risk.5. Keep your weight in check. Obese people (those with a BMI over 29) have a 20-percent-increased risk of developing colorectal cancer compared to those of normal weight.For more information, visit northside.com.



RADIOLOGY

The Diagnostic Imaging Services at Newton Medical Center offers a full range of outpatient interventional radiology proceduresInterventional radiology is a rap-idly growing area of medicine with minimally invasive procedures that often replace open surgical procedures. Referred to as image guided medicine, the procedures are generally easier for the patient because they involve no large incisions, less risk, less pain, shorter recovery times and lower cost. Are You Suffering From These Common Conditions?Varicose Veins: Twisted, enlarged veins most common in legs and feet that af-fect people of all ages and races. Often times, varicose veins are a cosmetic concern, but they can also result in an aching pain and discomfort. Symp-toms may include dull aching, heavi-ness or cramping in legs; itching and tingling; pain that gets worse when standing or that gets better when legs are raised; and swelling of the legs. People without visible varicose veins can still have symptoms. Uterine Fibroid Tumors: Non-cancer-ous tumors of the uterus, most likely to develop in African American wom-en and those with a family history. Most fibroids cause no symptoms, and are only discovered when a woman has a routine pelvic examination. If you do experience fibroid symptoms, they may include heavy, prolonged men-strual periods, sometimes with clots; anemia or fatigue due to low red blood count, increased menstrual cramping, pain or pressure between the hip bones or in the back of the legs, pain during sexual intercourse, frequent need to urinate, constipation or bloating and an enlarged belly. Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH): As men get older, they are at risk for prostate gland enlargement which can cause urinary symptoms such as dif-ficulty urinating, a weak urine stream or not feeling empty after urinating.

When left untreated, the enlargement can prevent urine from flowing from the bladder which may result in blad-der, urinary tract or kidney trouble. Scrotal Varicoceles: Comparable to a varicose vein that can occur in the leg, but instead is an enlargement of the veins within the loose bag of skin that holds a man’s testicles. Issues can include pain, fertility problems and testicular shrinkage. Usually diagnosed during a physical exam, the enlarged vein can also resemble a bag of worms due to the lumpy appearance. Often times there are no symptoms. Meet Our Interventional Radiologists

Interventional radiologists are physi-cians who specialize in minimally in-vasive, targeted treatments performed using imaging guidance such as X-ray, fluoroscopy, CT/ Cat Scan, ultrasound and nuclear medicine. Newton Medi-cal Center’s interventional radiologists are highly skilled and experienced physicians. Abbas Chamsuddin, MD is board certified in Diagnostic Radiol-ogy with a Certificate of Added Quali-fication in Interventional Radiology. Dr. David Isaacs, DO is board certi-fied in Radiology with a Certificate of Added Qualification in Interventional Radiology. Both Dr. Chamsuddin and Dr. Isaacs are happy to meet with patients for a consultation. Start A Patient Tailored Treatment Plan

The Diagnostic Imaging Services at Newton Medical Center offer a full range of outpatient interventional radiology procedures to improve or return you to health. Many common problems can be treated without the need for major surgery with image guided medicine. Our board certified interventional radiologists provide

consultations and numerous techno-logically advanced treatments such as:Vein Ablation - this procedure is offered as an alternative to surgery for treating varicose veins in the lower legFibroid Embolization - this procedure is offered as an alternative to surgery for treating benign fibroid tumors in the uterusProstate Enlargement Treatment - this procedure can help male patients with a condition called BPH, noncancer-ous enlargement of the prostateVaricocele Treatment - this procedure can help male patients with scrotal varicoceles which can lead to infertil-ity. This procedure can also help female patients with varicose veins in the pelvis which can cause pain and pressureGet Control Over Your Health

The Diagnostic Imaging Services at Newton Medical Center have helped many people feel relief from pain and symptoms through the minimally invasive procedures offered. The

advantage of interventional radiol-ogy over major surgery is that most procedures can be performed on an outpatient basis or require only a short hospital stay. General anesthesia usually is not required and risk, pain and recovery time are often signifi-cantly reduced. Also, the procedures are often less expensive than surgery or other alternatives. Schedule An Appointment Today

If you are concerned that you have one of the conditions listed above, call 770-385-4329 to schedule a consultation today. There is no charge for an educational consulta-tion. If you have an order or referral from your physician, call patient scheduling at 770-385-4436 to schedule an appointment. The Diagnostic Imaging Depart-ment at Newton Medical Center is located on the first floor at 5126 Hospital Drive in Covington. For general information about interventional radiology, please call 770-385-4329.

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citizen physicians guide february 2015

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