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Volume 12 | Number 4 | Fourth Quarter 2010 | www.northoaks.org

Winter holidays bring about lots of wonderful things – time with family

and friends, festivities and, of course, relief from summer heat! But recent studies have shown that winter and the holidays also bring an increase in heart

disease-related deaths. (Continuedonpage2.)

Heart HealthyWinter Holidays

4 Life-saving Baseball Play | 5 Reduce Your Risks of Falling | 6 Sleep Tight and Don’t Let the Bed Bugs Bite | 8 50 Years of Caring for You9 New At North Oaks: Minimally Invasive Sinus Surgery, Neurosurgery Clinic and Botox | 11 North Oaks Hospice | 12 Stand Up for Your Life

Frigid air causes blood vessels to constrict as the body tries to prevent heat loss, which raises blood pressure and can reduce oxygen flow to the heart. This is a natural response that also can put people with heart conditions and those involved in strenuous exercise at greater risk of having a heart attack. � Keep your body warm, particularly by covering your head, hands and feet; these are

the areas of the body that lose heat first.

Colder TemperaTures

2 North Oaks Community Newsletter | Vol. 12 | No. 4 | Fourth Quarter 2010

E veryyear,over1millionAmericanssufferaheartattack.About450,000ofthosearefatal.Hereareafewofthereasonsthatresearchersthinkmaybetoblameforthehigherrateofheartattacksinthewinter,aswellaswaystohelpyoucombatthem.

alCohol ConsumpTion

Drinking too much alcohol may raise the levels of some fats in the blood. It also may lead to high blood pressure, heart failure, increased calorie intake and contribute to abnormal heart rhythms. Excessive drinking and binge drinking also may lead to stroke. � If you do choose to drink alcohol during the holidays, limit yourself

to one drink (i.e., one beer, one glass of wine, mixed drink).

By North Oaks CardiologistsChristina Lopez, MD (left)

and James Parker, MD (right)

Heart HealthyWinter Holidays

Have

Sources: www.heart.org, www.healthfinder.gov, www.massgeneral.org, www.ncpad.org

People tend to gain weight during the holiday season and take in more salt and fat, which can put additional stress on a weakened heart. � Foods high in insoluble fiber are heart healthy. Try adding some of these to

your holiday menu: whole-wheat breads, cabbage, beets, carrots, Brussels sprouts, turnips or cauliflower.

� To prevent overeating at a party or family dinner, have a small healthy snack, such as a handful of unsalted almonds or a piece of whole grain toast before heading out the door.

� Continue to be physically active. By exercising as little as 30 minutes a day, you can reduce your risk of heart disease.

� Excessive salt intake increases blood pressure and causes retention of fluids which may lead to the worsening of heart failure.

During the holiday season, people may feel stress as their to-do list swells with additional activities like shopping, wrapping, writing cards and cooking. Add that to having to absorb financial pressures, such as purchasing gifts, travel expenses and entertaining, and it’s easy to see why these factors can take a toll on the body. � Try budget-friendly

gift-giving. Arrange a gift exchange with family or friends where everyone involved draws one person’s name for whom to purchase a gift. You also can set monetary limits so you don’t feel pressured to spend more than you can afford.

� Be sure to get enough rest. Sleep for 7 to 8 hours each day.

emoTional sTress

Changes in dieT

About half of annual heart attack-related deaths take place within 1 hour of the onset of warning signs and before the patient ever reaches a hospital.

Warning Signsof a Heart Attack:

�� Chest�pain�or�discomfort�that�lasts�more�than�a�few�minutes,�or�keeps�coming�back

�� Pain�or�discomfort�in�one�or�both�arms,�the�back,�neck,�jaw�or�stomach

�� Shortness�of�breath�with�or�without�chest�discomfort

�� Breaking�out�in�a�cold�sweat,�nausea�or�lightheadedness

�� Weakness

Immediately�call�9-1-1�if�any�of�the�signs�above�are�present.�As�with�men,�women’s�most�common�heart�attack�symptom�is�chest�pain�or�discomfort.�But�women�are�somewhat�more�likely�than�men�to�experience�some�of�the�other�common�symptoms,�particularly�shortness�of�breath,�nausea/vomiting�and�back�or�jaw�pain.

Who’s at Risk?�� People�with�hypertension,�also�known�as�

high�blood�pressure�� People�with�acquired�low�levels�of�HDL�

(High-Density�Lipoprotein), high�levels�of�LDL�(Low-Density�Lipoprotein)�blood�cholesterol�or�high�levels�of�triglycerides�

�� Cigarette�smokers�� People�who�are�under�a�lot�of�stress�� People�who�drink�too�much�alcohol�� Individuals�who�lead�a�sedentary�lifestyle�� Persons�overweight�by�30�percent�or�more�� Persons�who�eat�a�diet�high�in�saturated�fat�� Persons�with�Type�II�diabetes

www.northoaks.org 3

For more information about ways to live a heart-healthy lifestyle, visit the American Heart Association website at www.heart.org. If you would like to schedule an appointment with North�Oaks�Cardiology�Clinic,�call�(985)�230-7350.


Editor’s Note: The following excerpt is from a story originally published in The Paris (Texas) News on Aug. 15, 2010. It is reprinted with permission from publisher Patrick Graham of The Paris News and reporter Brent Wilburn.

PARIS, Texas–Marshall Dickey remembers the first feeling of pain on

his left side. He dismissed it as indigestion and figured it would subside. The 59-year-old recollects the helpless feeling as he attempted to catch his breath moments later, and knew then that the time for denial was over.

Marshall was having a heart attack and lost consciousness. He awakened hours later and remembers pleading with a nurse as he was taken into North Oaks Medical Center,“Don’t let me die.”The events that led to Marshall’s heart attack began in August during the Dixie Majors World Series in Independence, La. After a Sunday afternoon tournament game, Marshall, the assistant coach for the Paris Majors all-star team, suffered pain and shortness of breath. He was taken inside the concession stand by first responders working the tournament. A parent from another team identified himself as a cardiologist and asked if they needed help. He went inside and aided the paramedics as they performed CPR on Marshall. It worked, and he started breathing normally. Shortly after that moment, his heart stopped beating.

The medical team brought out the heart defibrillator. It worked for a minute as an ambulance arrived at the scene. As the paramedics prepared to load Marshall onto the ambulance, his heart stopped beating for a second time. He was then resuscitated again.

Marshall was stabilized at Lallie Kemp Regional Medical Center in Independence before being transported to North Oaks Medical Center in Hammond. Surgery was performed that night, and doctors removed a blood clot from the stent in his heart. He was released from the hospital on Aug. 4 and is back in Paris. But for now, he is seizing the opportunity of the life that was restored to him.

“By all rights, I should have been dead,” he said. “It just wasn’t my time to go.”

Out-Of-tOwnbaseball cOach Grateful tO nOrth Oaks fOr savinG his life

A commitment to high quality patient care and quality diagnostic testing has earned North Oaks accreditation by the Intersocietal Commission for the Accreditation of Echocardiography Laboratories (ICAEL).

The North Oaks Heart Health Center Echocardiology Laboratory received the designation following a voluntary peer review process designed to identify quality in this type of diagnostic lab across the U.S., Canada and Puerto Rico.

Echocardiographic testing is useful in the detection and management of many types of heart disease, explains Heart Health Center Director Tammy Murphy. This noninvasive test has become one of the standard diagnostic tools in cardiology with an estimated 10 million echocardiograms performed annually in the U.S.

Echocardiography is a complex imaging technique that relies on the experience and training of both the physician and sonographer to determine the diagnostic accuracy of an echocardiography examination, Murphy adds.

In addition, The North Oaks Heart Health Center Cardiac Rehabilitation Program recently received official notice from the American Association of Cardiovascular and Pulmonary Rehab (AACVPR) of recertification as a nationally recognized program.

The Heart Health Center, located within North Oaks Medical Center, focuses on care of the heart from prevention and diagnosis to treatment and rehabilitation.

nOrth Oaks heart health center Earns PrEstigious accrEditations

Editor’s Note: The following letter was submitted by the Dickey family inappreciation for the care provided by North Oaks’ staff and is reprinted withpermissionfromthefamily.

This is to thank everyone involved on 8/1/10 – My husband (Marshall Dickey) was brought there with a massive myocardial infarction from the ball field in Independence. It was almost as bad as it could have been, except the EMS got to you guys promptly, and then Dr. Ghiath Mikdadi and the (Heart Health Center) were waiting upon arrival and quickly took him to the Cath Lab, and he received a stent and was saved. You all have the best team of doctors and nurses and all hospital staff. Everyone was so kind, caring and helpful. We were 500 miles from home but feel as if we had lived there forever – we honestly talked about moving to Hammond. It is very evident that people love their jobs there (at North Oaks). And everyone deserves to be commended for a job well done. We will forever hold this town and the people dear to our hearts. Keep up the good jobs!

Love and Prayers, “The Texas Coach” Marshall, Regina & Blake Dickey

www.northoaks.org 5

Make small changes to your home. � Install timers or motion sensors on your lights. � Use night lights in your bedroom, bathroom and the hallway leading to the bathroom. � Keep the floor and stairs clear of clutter. � Remove small area rugs and throw rugs that can slip. � Put frequently used items in easy-to-reach places. � Make sure your bed is easy to get in and out. � Apply non-slip treads on stairs. � Apply non-slip decals or use a non-slip mat in the bathtub or shower. � Install grab bars near the toilet and the bathtub or shower.

Take extra precautions in the hospital or nursing home. � Many falls occur when patients or residents try to get out of bed either to go to the

bathroom or walk around the room by themselves. If you need to get out of bed: • Use your call button to ask for help getting out of bed if you feel unsteady. • Ask for help going to the bathroom or walking around. • Wear non-slip socks or footwear. • Lower the height of the bed and the side rails.

In Louisiana, falls are the leading cause of injury hospitalization. About 150 Louisianans die as a result of a fall injury each year, and 9,600 Louisianans are hospitalized for fall-related injuries.The Louisiana Fall Prevention Coalition works to help the people of Louisiana maintain their independence and enhance the quality of their lives by reducing falls and fall injuries.

FallingNew Campaigns Urge Reduced Risk of

By North Oaks Orthopedic SurgeonBryan S. Dudoussat, MD

Each year, millions of people–from elderly nursing home residents to hospitalized children to women who have just given birth–are injured by falls in health care facilities and homes.

Inaddition,TheJointCommission,anindependent,national,not-for-profitorganizationthatcertifieshealthorganizations,recentlylaunchedanationalcampaigntohelpAmericansreducetheriskoffalling.Theneweducationcampaignrecognizesthatfallsareaseriousproblem.StatisticsfromtheCentersforDiseaseControlandPrevention(CDC)showthatfallsarethesecondleadingcauseofinjury-relateddeathsforpeopleage65andover.

To reduce your risk of falling, considerthefollowing:

Take careof your health. � Exercise regularly. Exercise builds strength. � Prevent dehydration to improve balance. � Have your eyes checked. � Talk to your doctor if your medicine makes you

sleepy, light-headed, sluggish or confused. � Ask how to reduce these side effects or if you can

take another medicine.

Take extra precautions. � Turn on the lights when you enter a room. � Make sure your pathway is clear. � Use the handrails on staircases. � Sit in chairs that do not move and have arm rests

to help when you sit down and stand up. � Wear shoes that have firm, flat, non-slip soles. � Replace worn rubber tips on canes and walkers.


By North OaksContributing Writer

Nanette Russell White

“bed bugs are something we’re going to have to learn to live with. it will reach the point that they will be as common as the roach. their appearance will be a life-changing event for a lot of people.”

- Kyle Moppert,Louisiana Office of Public Health (OPH) Medical Entomologist Similar in appearance to a tick, mature bed bugs

(pictured below) are reddish brown, wingless, about the size of an apple seed and extremely flat. They are not picky about their environment and will thrive in an immaculate, five-star hotel just as easily as a vacant or run-down apartment, Moppert says.

An adult beg bug is aboutthe size of an apple seed.

Bed bugs are extremely flat.

Bite!

Shortly afterWorld War II, powerful insecticides effectively wiped out this country’s bed bug population. But, they prospered in other areas of the world, and today, partly due to bans on certain pesticides and a mobile society, bed bugs are making a comeback.

Photo Courtesy of LSU AgCenter

They usually feed on blood every 5-10 days but are capable of surviving up to 1 year without feeding. They usually attack humans, but may feed on other warm-blooded animals, including pets. When not feeding, the crafty critters hide in a variety of places, including seams and tags of mattresses. They may also be found in cracks of furniture, under loose wall paper, in screws, inside curtains and in sofas. Hospitals are unlikely to experience infestations, Moppert explains. “There is virtually no clutter in hospital rooms and metal beds are more resistant to the bugs,” he says. “Floors are usually kept very clean so any presence would be quickly dealt with.”(Continued on next page.)

Bed Bugs

The old nursery rhyme warning about bed bugs biting has new meaning today, causing some sleepless nights for more and more Louisianans.

Although many parts of the country have not yet encountered bed bugs, these parasites are spreading rapidly across the United States and Canada. Louisiana health officials are receiving

confirmed sightings throughout the state, and warn this public nuisance is here to stay.

www.northoaks.org 7Sources: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Environmental Protection Agency, U.S. Dept. of Agriculture, www.pestworld.org

Bite!

Check second-hand furniture, beds and couches for any signs of bed bug infestation before bringing them home. Some signs include dark spots (similar to a spot from a bleeding marker), eggs, eggshells, white skins and rusty or reddish stains on bed sheets and mattresses. Use a protective cover that encases mattresses and box springs to eliminate hiding spots. Reduce clutter in your home to reduce hiding spots.

When traveling, use luggage racks rather than placing luggage on the bed or floor. Check the mattress and headboard before sleeping. Upon returning home, unpack directly into a washing machine and inspect your luggage carefully.

Removal & Eradication Thoroughly clean the infested rooms by scrubbing surfaces with a stiff brush to dislodge eggs, and use a powerful vacuum to remove bed bugs from cracks and crevices. Be sure to seal the bugs in an airtight plastic bag and remove it from your home. Wash and dry bedding in high temperatures of at least 120° F.

Bed bugs are more resistant to freezing temperatures. Pesticides also are a component for controlling bed bugs. Do not apply unless you fully understand what you are using and the risks involved. Call a professional pest control company or a local Louisiana State University Cooperative Extension Service Office for assistance.

Preventions & Precautions

For more information on bed bugs, visit www.cdc.gov or www.epa.gov/pesticides/bedbugs.

Although the pests don’t carry disease, their presence can cause psychological stress, anxiety and insomnia. Their bites (pictured at left) can “itch like crazy” and usually only cause health concerns when scratched and a bacterial infection results, Moppert explains. The bites resemble a mosquito bite but are more patch-like, without a red center. They often form in a semi-circular pattern and most often are found on the upper body, but may also be found on legs or ankles. Some people are more sensitive to the bites, which may become inflamed.

Antihistamines and corticosteroids are most often prescribed by health care providers treating bed bug bites to reduce allergic reactions and swelling.

Photo Courtesy of LSU AgCenter

50 Years of Caring for YOUA � L O O k � AT � N O r T H � O A k ’ S � G r O W T H � I N � T H e � 1 9 9 0 s � & � 2 0 0 0 s


Also in 1994, Surgical Services continued its growth with an expansion from three operating suites and seven employees in the 1970s to seven major suites and a 111-member team.

In 1995, construction of the Vision 2000 Medical Center expansion project, got underway. The project included transforming North Oaks Medical Center into a 500,000-square-foot medical complex, adding a 4-story signature building, renovating existing facilities and adding a 3-story office plaza.

By early 1996, significant progress was being made at the construction site with roadways, sidewalks and storm piping installed. Renovations to North Oaks Occupational Health Services Clinic also were completed. A third clinic, North Oaks Family Medicine in Independence, was added to the family medicine network under the guidance of the late Fanancy Anzalone, MD.

In April 1998, the grand opening community celebration for the Signature Building was held with over 2,000 in attendance.

The period ending the century and beginning a new one was significant in North Oaks Health System’s growth to meet the ever-changing needs of area residents.

The health system’s clinic network began to take shape when North Oaks Family Medicine, a group of primary care physicians, joined the team on Feb. 1, 1994.

CommUnity newsletter was launched in 1999 to provide information, outreach, health education opportunities and health care news to nearly 40,000

homes in the area. The publication has grown to currently serve nearly 70,000 homes.

The new 32,342-square-foot TelemetryUnit moved into its fourth floor home inthe Signature Building in late 2001. The unit included two separate nursing units with 40 patient rooms, 60 beds and all-new telemetry monitoring equipment.

North Oaks Specialty and Walk-In Clinics in Walker opened in 2004 to provide Livingston Parish residents with specialized medicine and walk-in care for most illnesses and minor injuries. In November, the grand opening of the Diagnostic Center took place in Hammond.

In 2006, North Oaks Drive opened as a secondary access road for the Medical Center campus, and Human Resources relocated to North Oaks North Plaza.

Construction of North Oaks Resource Center was completed in 2008 to house support personnel.

Groundbreaking was held in spring 2009 for the North Oaks-Livingston Parish Medical Complex, a 2-story, 47,000-square-foot outpatient facility. Completion is expected in early 2011, and a community celebration is being planned for Jan. 7, 2011. A wide range of outpatient diagnostic and treatment services will be offered, including: cardiology, laboratory, radiology and rehabilitation services, a walk-in clinic, a family medicine clinic, a specialty clinic and meeting space for health education.

In addition, expansion is currently underway on the North Oaks Medical Center campus. Components include a 62,000-square-foot Medical Office Building to house physician clinics to be completed in the second quarter of 2011. A 5-story, 200,000-square-foot addition to the hospital and an improved physical plant will be major enhancements to the hospital. The expansion will include 14 new operating room suites, 12 outpatient surgery beds and 67 new private rooms. It is scheduled for completion in the third quarter of 2012.

To prepare for future expansion, North Oaks built a 3-story parking garage to meet the parking needs of staff, patients and visitors.The parking garage was completed in 2009.

New at NOrth Oaks

Steps of a Balloon Sinuplasty in the cheek sinus: Picture 1 - Using a thin sinus guide, the doctor threads a soft guide wire into the blocked sinus. Picture 2 - A special sinus balloon rides over the guide wire into the sinus. The sinus balloon is gently inflated just enough to physically open the sinus passageway. Picture 3 - The balloon is withdrawn, and the sinus is irrigated. Picture 4 - Finally, the guide is withdrawn, and the repaired sinus remains open so that normal drainage reduces the incidence and severity of future infections.

North Oaks ENT Jeffrey LaCour, MD, OffersNew, Minimally Invasive Sinus Surgery

Dr. Jeffrey LaCour, of North Oaks ENT & Allergy Clinic is one of three fellowship-trained sinus specialists in Louisiana, and is now offering a new technique called Balloon Sinuplasty™ (pictured below). This surgery can be a safe and effective option for patients suffering from chronic sinusitis. The technology uses a small, flexible balloon catheter, similar to what is used in an angioplasty heart cath procedure, to open the passageways of the sinuses without removing any tissue. While recovery time varies with each patient, most people can return to normal activities within 24 hours.

To find out if Balloon SinuplastyTM would benefit you, North Oaks is offering a free seminar on

Tuesday, Nov. 9, from 6-7 p.m. in the Training Auditorium located within the North Oaks

Diagnostic Center on the North Oaks Medical Center campus. Dr. Jeffrey LaCour will explain

the procedure, discuss options for sufferers of chronic sinusitis and answer your questions.

Patients with chronic nasal congestion may be candidates for this procedure. Common symptoms include:� Facial pain, pressure, congestion or fullness� Nasal obstruction or blockage� Discolored post-nasal discharge� Loss of smell or taste� Headache� Fatigue� Dental Pain� Halitosis (bad breath).

For more information on sinusitis or the Balloon Sinuplasty system, please visit

www.balloonsinuplasty.com

Clinically proven for chronic sinusitis patients.

Benefits of the Balloon Sinuplasty Technology Balloon Sinuplasty devices represent a new technology in the opening of blocked sinuses, and in many cases, without tissue or bone removal.

• Teeth pain

• Loss of the sense of smell

or taste

• Headache

• Fatigue

• Sore throat

• Bad Breath

What is Sinusitis?

Sinusitis is an inflammation of the sinus lining often caused by infections and/or blockage of the sinus openings restricting normal mucus drainage.

Symptoms:• Facial pain, pressure • Nasal congestion or fullness • Difficulty breathing through

the nose • Discharge of yellow or

green mucus from the nose

• Safe and effective

• Minimally invasive

• Reduced bleeding

• Improved recovery

time

• Does not limit

Illustration steps of a Balloon Sinuplasty in the Maxillary sinus (cheek sinus):

Using a thin sinus guide, the doctor threads a soft atraumatic guide wire into the blocked sinus. A special sinus balloon rides over the guide wire into the sinus. The sinus balloon is gently inflated just enough to physically open the

sinus passageway. The balloon is withdrawn and the sinus is irrigated. Finally, the guide is withdrawn as the repaired

sinus remains open so that normal drainage reduces the incidence and severity of future infections.

Jeff LaCour, MD15770 Paul Vegas MD Dr., Suite 100, Hammond, (985) 230-2630North Oaks Specialty Clinic 28050 Walker S. Rd., Suite N, Walker (225) 664-9618

1 2 3 4

To register for the talk, please call North Oaks at (985) 230-6647, Monday through Friday,between the hours of 8 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. To find out more about allergy and sinus treatment options,

call North Oaks ENT & Allergy Clinic at (985) 230-2630 or visit www.northoaks.org. www.northoaks.org 9

ExperienceSinus Relief.

Find out if Balloon Sinuplasty™is right for you.

North Oaks Neurosurgery Clinic to Open in December


BotoxMore than Just a Temporary Wrinkle Fix

at North Oaks Neurology Clinic

New at NOrth Oaks cONtiNued

David L. Masel, MD, FACS, has joined the North Oaks Clinic network’s newest addition, North Oaks Neurosurgery Clinic in Hammond, and will begin seeing patients in December.

Recognized as one of the “Top Neurosurgeons in Texas” by Texas Monthly Magazine in 2008, 2009 and 2010, Dr. Masel comes to North Oaks with 25 years of neurosurgery experience, 15 of which were in private practice. His areas of specialty include complex spine and brain tumor surgeries, as well as minimally invasive techniques.

Dr. Masel completed his medical degree at Emory University School of Medicine in Atlanta, Ga., and his residency through Henry Ford Hospital in Detroit, Mich. In addition, he served in the U.S. Air Force as a Major at Wilford Hall Medical Center

in San Antonio, Texas. He also co-founded the Progressive Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery, LP, which holds numerous patents for spinal surgery. His professional affiliations include the American Association of Neurological Surgeons, Congress of Neurological Surgeons, National Board of Medical Examiners and American Board of Neurological Surgery, American College of Surgeons and American Medical Association.

North Oaks Neurosurgery Clinic will specialize in the prevention, diagnosis, treatment and rehabilitation of disorders that affect the entire nervous system including the spinal column, spinal cord, brain and peripheral nerves. The clinic will be located at 15837 Paul Vega, MD, Drive, Suite 202 of the North Oaks Diagnostic Center on theNorth Oaks Medical Center campus.

Clinic hours of operation will be 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. on weekdays.For more information or to request a listing of accepted insurance plans, please call (985) 230-7400.

North Oaks Neurology Clinic PhysiciansBilal A. Choudry, MD, and Patricio S. Espinosa, MD, MPH, are pleased to offer this treatment option to their patients who may benefit.

Chronic migraines can cause severe pain in the neck and head. Multiple Botox injections around the head and neck at 12-week intervals may dull future headache symptoms.

Stroke victims and people with cerebral palsy may experience uncomfortable stiffness, tightness and spasms in the elbow, wrist and fingers. Botox works by blocking the signals that cause excess activity in the muscles of the elbow, wrist and fingers to help reduce stiffness and pain.

Cervical dystonia can affect muscles in the neck. Muscles may tighten or spasm uncontrollably. This can force the head and neck into movements or positions that are painful and awkward. Botox works directly on the muscles that spasm or the area of pain. Many patients get relief from the muscle spasms, as well as reduction in neck pain after treatment.

Relief from symptoms may last for up to 3 months. However, reinjection is necessary for continued results since the effects of the toxin disappear over time.

In addition to smoothing out wrinkles, the Federal Drug Administration (FDA) has approved Botulinum Toxin injections, more commonly referred to as “Botox,” as a treatment for some neurological conditions, including strokes, cerebral palsy, cervical dystonia and, most recently, chronic migraines.

Botox may prove effective in helping to release the tension and pain associated with these neurological conditions and by allowing more freedom of movement and flexibility.

To find out more about Botox as a treatment for neurological conditions or to schedule an appointment, call North Oaks Neurology Clinic at (985) 230-7525.

David L. Masel, MD, FACS, Joins North Oaks Neurosurgery Clinic

www.northoaks.org 11

Hospice can be a vital resource for you. The North Oaks Hospice team is well-staffed and trained to provide comfort and support to both patients and their families during the final phase of a terminal illness. They emphasize quality of life rather than length of life and address the emotional, physical and spiritual needs of the patient. North Oaks Hospice also helps survivors cope both before and after death offering bereavement services for at least1 year after their loved one’s death.

Let us help answer some common questions about hospice:

North OaksHospice: CelebratingNational Hospice Month

what specific assistance does hospice provide home-based patients? Hospice patients are cared for by a team consisting of a physician, a nurse, social workers, counselors, hospice aides, clergy and volunteers. Each one provides assistance based on his or her own area of expertise and the patient’s needs. In addition, hospice provides medications, medical supplies, equipment and other services related to the terminal illness.

Does hospice provide care 24 hours a day, 7 days a week? Hospice staff is on call 24 hours a day. Hospice care does not include a nurse in the home 24/7. If you require more care than can be provided in the home, the hospice staff will assist in exploring alternate options and resources.

how does hospice “manage pain?” Hospice believes that emotional and spiritual pain are just as real and in need of attention as physical pain, so it addresses each. Hospice nurses and physicians are up to date on the latest medications and devices for pain and symptom relief. Various counselors, including clergy, are available to assist family members, as well as patients with emotional, psychosocial and spiritual issues.

North Oaks Hospice is joining other

hospice services around the country in

recognizing National Hospice Month

in November.

when should a decision about entering a hospice program be made and who should make it? At any time during a life-limiting illness, it’s appropriate to discuss all of a patient’s care options, including hospice. By law, the decision belongs to the patient. Hospices accept patients who have a life expectancy of6 months or less.

should i wait for our physician to raise the possibility of hospice, or should i raise it first? The patient and family should feel free to discuss hospice care at any time with their physician, other health care professionals, clergy or friends. North Oaks Hospice is happy to provide an informational visit at no cost or obligation to anyone who requests it.

how is hospice care paid for? Medicare, Medicaid, most commercial insurances and community-donated funds pay for hospice care.

can a hospice patient who shows signs of recovery be returned to regular medical treatment? If the patient’s condition improves and/or stabilizes, patients can be discharged from hospice and return to aggressive therapy, or go on about their daily life. If the discharged patient should later need to return to hospice care, Medicare, Medicaid and most private insurance will allow additional coverage for this purpose. A patient also can request to be discharged from hospice if they change their mind about hospice care.

what does the hospice admission process involve? One of the first things the hospice program will do is contact the patient’s physician to make sure he or she agrees that hospice care is appropriate for this patient at this time. North Oaks Hospice has medical staff available to help patients who have no physician. The patient will be asked to sign consent and insurance forms. These are similar to the forms patients sign when they enter a hospital.

is there any special equipment or changes i have to make in my home before hospice care begins? The hospice staff will assess your needs, recommend any equipment, and will make arrangements to obtain any necessary equipment.

how many family members or friends does it take to care for a patient at home? There’s no set number. One of the first things the hospice team will do is to prepare an individualized care plan that will, among other things, address the amount of caregiving needed by the patient. Hospice staff visit regularly and are always accessible to answer medical questions.

Must someone be with the patient at all times? It may not be necessary for someone to be with the patient all the time if the patient is fairly independent. Later, however, the patient will require continuous supervision and assistance. While family and friends do deliver most of the care, hospice may have volunteers to assist with errands and to provide a break and time away for primary caregivers.

If you know someone who is coping with a terminal illness or the loss of a family member, call North Oaks Hospiceat (985) 230-7620 to schedule a free consultation with no obligation or receive more information about bereavement services.

Source: www.hospicenet.org


According�to�the�American�Cancer�Society�study,�women�who�reported�more�than�6�hours�per�day�of�sitting�were�37�percent�more�likely�to�die�during�the�time�period�studied�than�those�who�sat�fewer�than�3�hours�a�day.�Men�who�sat�more�than�6�hours�a�day�were�18�percent�more�likely�to�die�than�those�who�sat�fewer�than3�hours�per�day.�

Another�study�by�the�International�Diabetes�Institute�finds�that30�minutes�of�exercise�a�day�is�not�enough�to�prevent�obesity�and�diabetes�in�people�who�also�spend�long�periods�doing�nothing.�The�study�also�suggests�people�break�up�sitting�time�with�a�simple�walk�around�the�office,�which�may�be�more�likely�to�increase�their�metabolic�rate.�

even�simply�standing�may�help�offset�the�negative�effects�of�sitting.�Officials�recommend��talking,�typing�or�even�fidgeting�while�standing.�Because�the�muscles�work�while�holding�the�body’s�weight�upright,��standing�can�help�increase�the�metabolic�rate.�

Experts also suggest taking flexibility breaks twice a day and getting up to walk around every hour or so to take pressure off the lower back and engage lower body muscles.

Several recent studies have concluded that excessive amounts of sitting can contribute to lethargy and send harmful signals to your body that cause the amount of glucose and fat burning in the body to shut down.upStand

forYour

Life.

The American Cancer Society finds “it’s not just how much physical activity you get, but how much time you spend sitting that can affect your risk of death.”

Even regular daily exercise, such as the 30 minutes recommended by many health professionals, may not be enough to counteract the effects of sitting.

By Northshore Internal Medicine Associates PhysicianWilliam G. Plunkett, MD


What can physical activity do for me? ✓ Helps keep your blood glucose, blood pressure, HDL cholesterol and triglycerides on target

✓ Lowers your risk for pre-diabetes, type 2 diabetes, heart disease and stroke

✓ Relieves stress ✓ Strengthens your heart, muscles and bones ✓ Improves your blood circulation and tones your muscles

✓ Keeps your body and your joints flexible

Sitting on your sofa orat your desk for hoursa day may be knocking years off your life,according to health experts.

Before beginning any exercise plan, please consult with your personal health care provider. You also may call Northshore Internal Medicine Associates at (985) 230-7675, as well as North Oaks Family Medicine in Hammond at (985) 230-5800, in Independence at (985) 878-4174 or Walker at (225) 664-4398. North Oaks also offers Wellness Programs that are supervised

by a team of medical professionals to assist children through senior adults in achieving wellness goals. Pool and gym group classes are offered, as well as individual fitness training. For more information, call North Oaks Wellness at (985) 230-5250.

A complete exercise routine includes four kinds of activity:1. Activity throughout the day, such as walking

or using the stairs 2. Aerobic exercise, such as brisk walking,

swimming or dancing 3. Strength training, like lifting light weights or

doing push-ups 4. Flexibility exercises, such as stretching or

yoga.

Even if you’ve never exercised before, you can find ways to add physical activity to your day. You’ll get benefits, even if your activities aren’t strenuous. Once physical activity is a part of your routine, you’ll wonder how you did without it.

Getupto improve your chances for a healthier life.

and move

Sources: American Cancer Society, American Diabetes Association, International Diabetes Institute,University of Missouri

North Oaks Staff Nurses Warene Sheridan (far left) and Gayle Cotten (far right) present a memory plaque to family members of former patient Anne Sherman at the health system’s annual Hospice Memorial Service on Aug. 21. Accepting the plaque are Anne’s daughter and husband, Karli Sherman and Dr. Ken Sherman. Learn more about Hospice care on page 11.

In Memory

North Oaks Co-sponsors Kids Bike Race

From left, Dennis Pevey visits with Drs. Jeffrey LaCour and William Plunkett at the Ponchatoula Chamber of Commerce Business Expo held Aug. 17. Both physicians recently joined the North Oaks Clinic network. Read more about Dr. LaCour on page 9 and Dr. Plunkett on page 12.

Physician Meet & Greet

From right, North Oaks Certified Engineer Specialist Jimmy Hall volunteers his time at the Seventh Annual Kids Bike Race in Denham Springs to help teach children like Nikolas Johnson of Baton Rouge about first aid with a teddy bear clinic. The free bike race was co-sponsored by Pelican State Credit Union and North Oaks on July 24 at Abundant Life Church to promote children’s health and fitness.

North Oaks Participates in University’s Business Expo


NICU ReunionSat. Dec. 4, 9-11 a.m.(By Invitation Only)

The Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) at North Oaks Medical Center will host a reunion for former patients and their families in the E. Brent Dufreche Conference Center, located in the North Oaks Diagnostic Center.

From right, North Oaks Market Strategist Britni Serou plays a health tips for college trivia game with Shelly Eskine, a Southeastern student, during the university’s “Getting Bizzy in the Union” business expo on Sept. 1. North Oaks participated in the annual event to showcase the services of the health system’s growing Clinic network to Southeastern students and faculty.

This event will feature photos withSanta Claus for the children, as well

as refreshments and holiday activities.

For more information about the reunion or toregister your child, please call the North Oaks

Special Events Line at (985) 230-2255,Monday-Friday, between 8 a.m. and 4:30 p.m.

2010NICUReunion

SUPPORT GROUP MEETINGSBreastfeeding Support Group: 6 p.m.Nov. 16 and Dec. 7

Connection Peer Support Group (NAMI): 6:30 p.m.Nov. 8; Dec. 13

Families Touching Families—Filling the Gap: 10 a.m.Nov. 6, 20; Dec. 11

Group Living with Affective Disorders Support Group: 6 p.m.Nov. 8, 15, 22, 29; Dec. 6, 13, 20, 27

Northlake Area Transplant Support Group: 7 p.m. Nov. 4; Dec. 2

SPECIAL EVENTHospice MeMory Tree(By Invitation Only)Dec. 1, 3-6:30 p.m.Since 1992, the Remembrance Celebration has served as a component of the Bereavement Program for loved ones of deceased North Oaks Hospice patients. It is a time to remember lost loved ones and receive support. For more information, please call North Oaks Hospice at (985) 230-7620. See page 11 for more information on what services North Oaks Hospice may be able to provide for you.

Note: If you have bereavement support needs or questions, please call North Oaks Hospice at(985) 230-7620 for information on available community resources.

CLASSES FORFAMILIES & CHILDRENBody Beautiful I Class:Puberty for Girls—Free Nov. 4, 6 p.m.

Breastfeeding Class—FreeNov. 11, 6 p.m.

Car Seat Fitting Station—Free*Nov. 4 and Dec. 2; 8 a.m.-4 p.m.*By appointment only.

Prenatal I Class:Families Under Construction—FreeNov. 9, 6 p.m.

Prenatal II Class:Labor & Delivery—FreeNov. 16, 6 p.m.

Prenatal III Class:Relaxation Techniques—FreeNov. 23, 6 p.m.

Prenatal IV Class:Infant Care (& Tour)—FreeNov. 30, 6 p.m.

Prenatal V Class:American Heart Association CPRfor Family & Friends—$5Dec. 7, 6 p.m.

Prepared Childbirth—$40Nov. 13, 9 a.m.

Something for Siblings Class—FreeNov. 16, 5 p.m.

Call (985) 230-7777 to register for Community Education classes and Car Seat Fittings. For a full description of classes and support group meetings, go to www.northoaks.org. All classes are held inthe E. Brent Dufreche Conference Center, located in North Oaks Diagnostic Center, unless otherwise noted.


In observance of American Diabetes Month, the North Oaks Diabetes Support Group will show individuals with diabetes how to cook diabetic-friendly dishes at Alack Culinary Equipment and Supplies, located at 17420 Hwy. 190 in Hammond. The event is free and open to those with diabetes, as well as their family members and friends. To register, call the North Oaks Special Events Line at (985) 230-CALL (2255).

Diabetes Support Group Special Event: Cooking Demonstration and Food Sampling—Free Nov. 19, 11 a.m.-1:30 p.m.

CPR ANDFIRST AID CLASSES minimum 4 hours

American Heart Association Healthcare Provider CPR—$20 (for medical professionals)Nov. 11 and Dec 2, 5 p.m.

American Heart Association Heartsaver AED CPR Class—$15 (for the layperson)Nov. 18 and Dec. 9, 5 p.m.

American Red Cross Standard First Aid Class—$25Nov. 18, 5 p.m.

The American Heart Association (AHA) strongly promotes knowledge and proficiency in Basic Life Support, Advanced Cardiac Life Support and Pediatric Advanced Life Support and has developed instructional materials for this purpose. Use of these materials in an educational course does not represent course sponsorship by the AHA. Any fees charged for such a course, except for a portion of fees needed for AHA course materials, do not represent income to the Association.

Save the Dategrand

oPEningFRIDAy, JANuARy 7, 2011

For more information, call North Oaks Marketing/Business Development at (985) 230-6647.

haMMOnD(985) 230-5726

Monday-Friday | 8 a.m.-9 p.m.Saturday & Sunday | 9 a.m.-5 p.m.

walker(225) 664-2111

Monday-Friday | 8 a.m.-9 p.m.Saturday | 9 a.m.-5 p.m.

*Available for age 6 months-adult

Volume 12 | Number 4 | Fourth Quarter 2010

North Oaks Health System15790 Paul Vega, MD, Drive | Hammond, LA 70403P.O. Box 2668 | Hammond, LA 70404Phone: (985) 230-6647 | Fax: (985) 230-6138 | [email protected]

CommUnity is printed and published by North Oaks Health System under the leadership of the North Oaks Board of Commissioners.

The information in this newsletter is meant to complement the advice of your health care providers, not to replace it. Before making any major changes in your medications, diet or exercise, talk to your health care provider.

The mission of North Oaks Health System is to provide quality, personalized health care in a caring, efficient and financially responsible manner. Furthermore, it is our intention to work in harmony with physicians, area hospitals, businesses and community organizations to meet the health care and health educational needs of citizens of Tangipahoa and the Florida Parishes.

©2010 North Oaks Health System

Presort Std

US Postage

PAID

Baton Rouge LA

Permit No 2035

flu shotsAvAilAble At the following north oAks CliniCsThis vaccine offers protection against seasonal flu, including the H1N1 virus. Age 6 months and up.

The administration charge for the vaccine is $35. Cash, checks, credit cards and most insurances will be accepted.

For more information, please call (985) 230-6647 or visit www.northoaks.org.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention,The single best way to protect against the flu is to get vaccinated each year.

nOrthshOre internalMeDicine assOciates

Hammond • (985) 230-7675

nOrth OaksfaMilY MeDicine clinics

Hammond • (985) 230-5800Independence • (985) 878-4174

Walker • (225) 664-4398

NorTH oaks HealTH sysTeM is a community-based hospital organization with nearly 3,000 employees, physicians and volunteers, serving the Florida Parishes since 1960. Facilities include North Oaks Medical Center, North Oaks Rehabilitation Hospital, North Oaks Heart Health Center (located within North Oaks Medical Center), North Oaks Diagnostic Center, North Oaks Hospice Agency, North Oaks Outpatient Rehabilitation Services, Magnolia Obstetrics & Gynecology, North Oaks Cardiology, North Oaks ENT & Allergy Clinic, North Oaks Family Medicine Clinics, North Oaks Neurology Clinic, North Oaks Neurosurgery Clinic, North Oaks Occupational Health Services Clinic, North Oaks Orthopedic Clinic, North Oaks Pulmonology, North Oaks Specialty Clinic, North Oaks Walk-In Clinics and Northshore Internal Medicine Associates.

nOrth Oaks PulMOnOlOGY clinicHammond • (985) 230-1580

nOrth Oaks sPecialtY clinic

Walker • (225) 664-9618

MaGnOlia Obstetrics& GYnecOlOGY clinic

Hammond • (985) 230-7650

no appointment is necessaryat north Oaks walk-in clinics*: Please call for appointment availability at the following locations:

communityv12no4

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