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Well Aware

recognizing Pediatric asthma

comprehensivecancer care

“virtual” trainer Helps teens Get fit

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VOL.1 NUM.2

See page 2 for details on how

you can win a FREE

Apple iPod nano.

letter from tHe editor

Giveaway

Answer the following question correctly for a chance to win an Apple iPod nano. What policy has Atlantic Health implemented to streamline care for stroke patients in the emergency department? Hint: tHe answer is in tHis issue!

Email us at [email protected] with the correct answer, or mail your answer along with your name, address and phone number to:

Atlantic Health, Attn: Well Aware | PO Box 1905 | Morristown, NJ 07962

Must be 18 years or older to enter. Atlantic Health employees and their immediate families are not eligible for the drawing. We welcome your comments and suggestions along with your entry.

Congratulations to last issue’s winner, Ursula Stigliano of Springfi eld, NJ.

WWell Well W AwareDear Friend,

Fall is here, the children are back in school and the holidays are approaching—what better time to focus on your health? In this issue of Well Aware, you’ll learn ways to improve your family’s health, from what organic foods are worth the money to how to reduce your risk for heart disease.

Do you know how to recognize a stroke? Cut out our handy guide on page 10 to raise your awareness of the symptoms of stroke and what to do if you recognize them in someone you know.

You can also read about our exciting new initiative to further enhance patient safety at Morristown Memorial Hospital and Overlook Hospital. Admin Rx is a new bar-coding technology that ensures the right medication is given to the right patient, at the right time, in the proper dosage and in the most effective manner.

We hope you enjoy our latest issue, and we welcome any comments or suggestions you may have for future issues. Send us an email at [email protected].

Yours in good health,

atlantic HealtH

MORRISTOWN MEMORIAL HOSPITAL IS HOME TO THE LARGEST CARDIAC SURGERY PROGRAM IN THE STATE.

Morristown Memorial Hospital performs more cardiac surgeries, with better outcomes, than nearly any other hospital in New Jersey or New York.

ON SUNDAY, JUNE 30, an article in the New York Times focused on the difference it makes when patients go to a major medical center instead of their local hospitals for treatment.

While there appears to be no critical distinction between the treatment at major medical centers and local hospitals for patients suffering from common conditions, outcomes were signifi cantly different for more complex matters such as cancer or heart surgery.

For heart surgery, patients with more experienced surgeons did better—and that’s where Morristown Memorial’s superiority became clear. A chart included with the article showed the number of patients who got a coronary artery bypass graft (without valve or other surgery) at hospitals in New York and New Jersey in 2003, together with the number of doctors in each hospital who performed an average of more than 50 such operations there.

Of 38 hospitals throughout New York and New Jersey, Morristown Memorial came in second, with 857 cases and five surgeons who performed more than 50 operations. That means no hospitals in New York and only one in New Jersey scored higher for heart surgery outcomes than Morristown Memorial.

Experience Makes the Difference

Heart matters in tHe news

More than 30 percent of the cardiac surgeries performed at Morristown Memorial are on patients of the cardiology program at

Overlook Hospital. This program works hand-in-hand with Morristown Memorial to help

provide outstanding cardiac care to our region.

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ADMIN RX, which stands for “prescription administration” in medical shorthand, is a revolutionary way to keep track of every aspect of medication administration from start to finish. Admin Rx uses the same bar-code technology that you’re used to seeing whenever you buy groceries at your local supermarket.

“Before Admin Rx, a physician would write a prescription and send it to the pharmacy, where it would be transcribed onto another form to be filled later,” says Linda Reed, RN, chief information officer for Atlantic Health. “Admin Rx completely removes the need for hand writing prescriptions—which can pose the threat of transcription errors.”

How It WorksWhen a patient enters the hospital, he

or she is given a bar-coded wristband—similar to the bar codes on products in retail stores—to be worn throughout his or her stay. Medications are also bar-coded, which automates the medication administration record and eliminates the need for handwritten notes.

Before a nurse can give a patient his or her medication, both the patient and the medication must be scanned into the Admin Rx system. From there, the system will determine whether the “Five Rights” of right patient, dose, time, medication and route—by mouth or IV—are met. Only when each is confirmed as accurate may the medication be given to the patient. This information is also available to physicians through a secure online system.

Top PriorityPatient safety programs such as Admin

Rx are a top priority at Morristown Memorial and Overlook Hospitals. The goal of this new patient safety initiative is to have zero errors across the board and includes the Admin Rx system and the soon-to-be installed Physician Order Entry—which will remove another step in the process of filling prescriptions and add another level of patient safety.

“Tools such as Admin Rx and Physician Order Entry serve as an extra level of protection for patients,” says Reed. “Our hospital administrators and staff members have put a lot of time, effort and money into patient safety, and will continue to do so to ensure that our patients receive the best care possible in the safest means possible.”

Say Goodbye tothe Unreadable

Prescription New “bar-code” technology enhances clarity, safety and patient care.

Patient safety and medication errors are buzzwords in the medical field right now—but at Morristown Memorial and Overlook Hospitals, patient safety has always been a top priority. One of the latest additions to our safety procedures is the new Admin Rx system.

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PEDIATRIC ASTHMA—a chronic inflammatory disease of the airways characterized by coughing, wheezing and shortness of breath—leaves countless children fighting for air. The disease affects more than nine million children under the age of 18, yet many feel few or no symptoms.

“A child who coughs and wheezes for a week or more is likely suffering from more than just an itchy throat,” says Arthur Atlas, MD, board certified in pulmonary pediatrics and director of The Respiratory Center for Children at the Goryeb Children’s Hospital at Morristown Memorial Hospital. “A clinical diagnosis should be performed to determine if the coughing and wheezing are signs of pediatric asthma.”

During a clinical diagnosis, your child’s physician will discuss family and environmental history—such as proximity to smog, factories or wildlife—to determine if he or she is susceptible to asthma. A pulmonary function test, where your child’s breathing ability will be examined, is sometimes used to detect the disease.

Controlling AsthmaTwo options to help reduce the coughing,

wheezing and other symptoms of asthma include controllers, which address the inflammation in the airways and are used for long-term management, and rescue medications. Inhalers and nebulizers, which are air compressors that force medication into the air to deliver quick relief, are popular types of rescue medications.

The most important method of controlling asthma, however, is not something you can find in a drugstore.

“Parents need to educate themselves on the symptoms of asthma and when to initiate treatment,” says Dr. Atlas. “With proper education, treatment can help your child enter adulthood asthma-free.”

Take a Deep Breath

Your 6-year-old coughs and complains of not being able to catch his breath after playing for a short amount of time. Could it be asthma? TEEN FIT IS AN EXCITING NEW WEBSITE for teens featuring a virtual

food court, recipe suggestions of the day and quizzes on diet and exercise—all designed to get kids moving and interested in their health.

“The website takes a unique approach because we are not only trying to educate teens, we are trying to affect their behavior and establish good habits early,” says Samantha Kenny, coordinator of Project Teen Fit for Morristown Memorial Hospital. “Students can completely customize the way they view the website each time they log in as well as ask questions of medical staff experts.”

Middle school students in the Morris County School System will receive a CD-ROM connecting them to the site, and a special section called “The Real TV Guide” provides suggestions on activities to perform during television commercial breaks. Incentives such as gift cards to fitness-related venues, are given the more a teen logs on to the site.

Teen Fit is the result of collaboration between Morristown Memorial and researchers from various hospitals. A three-year grant from the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation funded the effort.

Help your children get on track for better health with Teen Fit at www.teenhealthfx.com.

Need help motivating your teen to make healthy diet and exercise choices? Thanks to a new website called “Teen Fit,” Morristown Memorial Hospital provides your child with fun and interactive ways to begin a healthy lifestyle.

HELPINGTeens Get Fit

According to a recent report co-authored by Walter Rosenfeld, MD, director of the Adolescent/Young Adult Center for Health at Morristown Memorial Hospital, as many as 44 percent of teens get their health information from the Internet. So it makes good sense to provide sites, like “Teen Fit,” that offer teens sound health information in an easy-to-understand, interactive format.

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{ }EACH YEAR, NEW JERSEY RESIDENTS

adopt thousands of foreign children, manyof whom were raised in orphanages for most of their lives and need a loving home. Giving a child like this a chance at a better life can be a wonderful andrewarding experience for adoptive families.

While many of these children are healthy, some can suffer from developmental delays, attachment disorders, tuberculosis, hepatitis, parasites and other infectious diseases. Half of these adopted children need short-term medical care—while others need intensive treatment to address more challenging health issues.

The Goryeb Children’s Hospital at Morristown Memorial is one of the few hospitals in the state that offers resources to help adoptive parents of international children optimize their child’s health and development, and to assist their pediatricians with the complex care of these patients.

“We’ve experienced a significant increase of adopted children in our area who come from foreign countries,” says Fran Drigun, RN, director for women’s and children’s services at Morristown Memorial. “The International Adoption Clinic was opened several years ago to address the unique needs of these children and their adoptive parents.”

Led by Elizabeth Baorto, MD, and Kathleen Selvaggi-Fadden, MD, the International Adoption Clinic’s staff includes a team of board-certified experts in pediatrics, developmental/behavioral pediatrics and child development.

Pre-Adoption ServicesPrior to an international adoption,

it is not uncommon for the country of origin to provide videotapes, lab reports, medical records, photographs and information on the child to prospective parents.

At the pre-adoption counseling session, a developmental pediatrician carefully reviews all available information at the time of referral to anticipate any special care that will be required. However, the clinic does not facilitate adoptions or recommend any particular agencies.

Post-Adoption Services“Once adoption has taken place, the

child usually needs to be with the adoptive family for 30 to 60 days to getcomfortable in his or her new home and bond with the family before making anappointment with the team of physicians,” Drigun says. “The Goryeb Children’s Hospital simplifies the health-evaluation process for adoptive families by scheduling assessments and lab work during one appointment at one location.”

The International Adoption Clinic team conducts a thorough examination and evaluation of the child and prepares a detailed, individualized treatment program. In addition, the team offers ongoing guidance and referrals to parents and their pediatricians.

Making the Process EnjoyableThe clinic’s adoption experts

understand how nervous parents can be about their adoptive child’s health and welfare and are committed to making the new child’s arrival a happy, healthy experience for the entire family.

“Adoption can be a lengthy and emotionally draining process,” says Drigun. “The resources of the International Adoption Clinic can help make the process easier for families.”

Giving Adoptive Children a Healthy Start

Thinking of adopting a child from a foreign country but want to make sure he or she is given a healthy start? The International Adoption Clinic at Morristown Memorial Hospital’s Goryeb Children’s Hospital offers parents a valuable resource.

For more information about theInternational Adoption Clinic

and the services offered,contact Donna Cirillo

at (973) 971-5833.

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OUR TEAM OF BOARD-CERTIFIED RADIOLOGISTS, PATHOLOGISTS, MEDICAL ONCOLOGISTS, RADIATION ONCOLOGISTS, SURGEONS AND OTHER PHYSICIANS HAS THE TRAINING AND EXPERIENCE TO LEAD THE WAY.

NO ONE WANTS TO HEAR the words, “You have cancer,” but people you know are hearing it all too often, as New Jersey has the unfortunate distinction of having some of the highest cancer rates in the nation.

Should you or a loved one be faced with a cancer diagnosis, it’s good to know that close to home, at Morristown Memorial and Overlook Hospitals, you can find the region’s most extensive array of advanced treatment options.

Patients at Morristown Memorial’s Carol G. Simon Cancer Center and The Cancer Center at Overlook Hospital have access to nationally recognized cancer specialists who take a caring, personalized approach to cancer care, while using the latest high-tech tools for diagnosing and treating cancer. In fact, Overlook and Morristown Memorial were among the first in the region to acquire and begin using the revolutionary CyberKnife and Image Guided Radiation Therapy—just two examples of the kinds of advanced technology and treatment options available at the two Atlantic Health hospitals.

Experience You Can TrustActively engaged in the fight against

cancer, Morristown Memorial and Overlook are recognized as two of New Jersey’s leading providers of outstanding cancer care, continually upgrading to stay on the leading edge of ever-changing medicine. Medicine never stands still; it keeps moving forward. Our team of board-certified radiologists, pathologists, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, surgeons and other physicians has the training and experience to lead the way. They work with the newest imaging and diagnostic services to bring lifesaving treatments

to people of all ages with all types of cancer. Digital mammography and breast magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)—the new standard for breast cancer diagnostics—or new high-dose brachytherapy for prostate cancer and robotic radical prostatectomies are examples of medicine’s vanguard available here.

Our partnership with The Cancer Institute of New Jersey and relationship with some of New Jersey’s leading pharmaceutical companies allow access to the most up-to-date clinical trials and treatments. Accreditations from numerous institutions, including the Joint Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Organizations, the American College of Surgeons’ Commission on Cancer and the American College of Radiology reflect our commitment to the highest quality of care.

Personalized CareAlong with the training and technology,

it is the approach to care that really makes a difference. The cancer care teams at Morristown Memorial and Overlook provide you and your family with individualized care, which includes traditional and complementary therapies such as relaxation, guided imagery, yoga and other mind-body therapies.

“Our patients are often overwhelmed at the compassion and expertise of our medical staff,” says Lydia Tarta, RN, director of the oncology service line for Morristown Memorial and Overlook Hospitals. “Providing advanced care while making a personal connection with patients is what sets our oncology services apart.”

For a referral to an Atlantic Health physician, call 1-800-247-9580.

ComprehensiveCancer Care

It Takes a Team

The Carol G. Simon Cancer Center at Morristown Memorial Hospital and The Cancer Center at Overlook Hospital have fully integrated programs to meet the unique needs of cancer patients.

Associates at the CyberKnife program at Overlook Hospital use the latest technology to offer new hope to patients with inoperable tumors. At the Carol W. and Julius A. Rippel Breast Center at Morristown Memorial Hospital, our team addresses all aspects of evaluation and treatment planning for breast cancer, while the Peter B. Doherty Men’s Cancer Center offers comprehensive care for the diagnosis and treatment of prostate, bladder, kidney and testicular cancers.

“We bring together highly trained specialists in various fi elds of cancer care to facilitate discussion of treatment pathways and clinical research,” says Steven Papish, MD, FACP, medical director for the Carol G. Simon Cancer Center at Morristown Memorial Hospital. “This collaboration ensures the highest possible level of care for our patients.”

New CyberKnife®

technology

at Overlook

Hospital offers

hope for patients

with previously

inoperable tumors.

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Your Breast Cancer Prevention Plan

Celebrate National Breast Cancer Awareness Month this October by practicing good breast health.

To learn more about how Morristown Memorial and Overlook Hospitals can help improve your breast health, visit www.atlantichealth.org.

Fight breast cancer with food.Tomatoes, carrots, salmon, green

tea and raw or slightly cooked cabbage all are believed to reduce

a woman’s risk for breast cancer, according to the American Cancer Society.

If you fi nd a lump during a breast self-exam, don’t panic: 80 percent of tumors detected on a mammogram are benign.

THIS YEAR, more than 210,000 women—1,100 in New Jersey alone—are expected to face a diagnosis of breast cancer. Are you taking the necessary steps to prevent or catch breast cancer in its earliest and most treatable stages?

Your Role in Breast Health“Mammography continues to be the

gold standard for detecting breast cancer and therefore saving lives,” says Sue Jane Rivas Grosso, MD, radiologist and chief of breast imaging for Overlook Hospital. “However, women need to know mammography isn’t the only tool to detect breast cancer. Other steps should be taken for optimal breast health.”

Steps you can take at home include eating a balanced diet, getting regular exercise and understanding your personal risk factors for breast cancer (talk to your physician about your risk).

How We Can HelpTools available at Morristown Memorial

and Overlook Hospitals include the following:✓Mammography—Recommended for all

women age 40 and over (or earlier as directed by their physicians) to detect breast cancer early, mammograms can detect lumps up to two years before they can be felt.

✓Breast Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)—Useful in helping determine the presence of breast cancer in certain women with dense breasts and women at high risk for breast cancer.

✓Positron Emission Tomography/Computed Tomography (PET/CT)—Gives physicians the unique ability to visualize how cancerous regions are functioning and whether they are growing.

✓Image-Guided Breast Biopsy—Using ultrasound, MRI or mammography for guidance, a small needle removes suspicious tissue from the breast for additional testing.

The Bottom LineMorristown Memorial and Overlook

offer some of the latest technology and procedures for diagnosing and treating breast cancer. However, all of these advances are useless against breast cancer without the most essential piece of the protection puzzle—your willingness to take control of your health.

“The most important thing a woman can do for good breast health is to pay attention to even the slightest changes in her breasts,” says Paul Friedman, DO, board-certified radiologist and medical director for the Carol W. and Julius A. Rippel Breast Center at Morristown Memorial Hospital. “If women tend to their breast health by scheduling yearly mammograms, alerting their physicians to changes and maintaining good overall health, they increase their chances of catching cancer early, when the survival rate exceeds 95 percent.”

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Keeping Up with Surgical TechniquesAFTER BEING A SURGEON FOR

NEARLY 15 YEARS, Ian Atlas, MD, board-certified urologist and president of the medical staff for Morristown Memorial Hospital, has witnessed many evolutions and enhancements in the field of medicine. Reflecting on these shifts toward more sophisticated and advanced approaches, Dr. Atlas is thankful for a strong sense of teamwork among medical professionals. Each shares his or her expertise to ensure each patient receives the highest level of care available.

“Unlike many corporate companies that keep their techniques secret, physicians have a long tradition of teaching each other to enhance the health care in every community,” says Dr. Atlas. “As a result, when new technologies emerge, there

are always professionals with more experience who are willing to supervise and teach others the technique.”

Putting It to the TestTo demonstrate the teamwork of

surgeons at Morristown Memorial and across the nation, Dr. Atlas shares his experience on learning a few techniques that have enhanced Morristown Memorial’s ability to care for the community.

da Vinci® Surgical System—Traditional surgical approaches often required large incisions and long hospital stays. Today the field of medicine has advanced to include minimally invasive techniques and technology such as the da Vinci (a computer-aided device) that allow

surgeons to perform complex telescopic surgery through small incisions, which often results in less blood loss and shorter recoveries and hospital stays. Difficult laparoscopic surgeries, such as radical prostatectomy for the treatment of prostate cancer, is performed routinely using the da Vinci (for more about da Vinci, see “Robotic Innovation” on page 9).

One of the newest physicians to join Dr. Atlas’ team, Ayal Kaynan, MD, FACS, board-certified urologic surgeon on staff for Morristown Memorial, completed fellowship training on the da Vinci and was able to share his skill in using the technology in areas such as kidney and prostate cancer.

“In addition to new surgeons being onsite to help us learn about da Vinci,

The goal of surgeons at Morristown Memorial Hospital is to offer patients the most successful treatment with the fewest side effects. To accomplish this, surgeons must stay up-to-date on developments in their specialties. In addition to long hours in the operating room and office, they continue formal and informal training in the area of surgery—long after they complete medical school.

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Robotic Innovation

Morristown Memorial Hospital is dedicated to keeping its surgeons on the leading edge by implementing technologies such as the da Vinci® Surgical System. This robotic system allows surgeons like Ian Atlas, MD, board-certifi ed urologist and president of the medical staff for Morristown Memorial, to perform complex procedures using minimally invasive techniques. (For more information on the training Dr. Atlas received on this and other procedures, see “Keeping Up with Surgical Techniques.”)

The da Vinci system has four main parts: a surgeon’s console, a computerized control system, two instrument “arms” and a third arm, which is a fi ber-optic camera. During surgery, the surgeon has a three-dimensional view of the surgical site and maneuvers the “hands” using controls in the console. This technology gives surgeons more motion, precision and fl exibility than is possible during traditional surgery. Often times, these minimally invasive approaches also result in less painful recovery time, reduced bleeding and shorter hospital stays.

Keeping Up with Surgical Techniquesurologists from Morristown Memorial also traveled to a training program to learn more about the technique,” says Dr. Atlas. “The combination of our experience as veteran surgeons and the fresh perspective of new surgeons is a wonderful complement and offers great benefits to our community.”

Bladder Replacement Surgery—Dr. Atlas was the first surgeon in New Jersey to perform this advanced procedure, which constructs a new bladder from part of the small intestine for patients whose bladders have been removed due to cancer. He learned this technique during a fellowship at Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center in New York from a colleague who went to

Germany to train. Dr. Atlas has since taught this procedure to othersin his practice.

Radioactive Prostate Seed Implants—Some techniques require a collaborative effort between specialties. Dr. Atlas works with James Wong, MD, chair of radiation oncology at Morristown Memorial, and his department to provide the latest in non-surgical prostate cancer treatment. Each physician brings valuable perspective from his field, and together Dr. Atlas and Dr. Wong have perfected the technique of radioactive prostate seed implantation.

Morristown Memorial also makes it possible for surgeons to continually increase their skills by subscribing to

web broadcasts with world-renowned medical centers. This allows surgeons to ask questions and receive expert answers. In addition, urologists at the Peter B.Doherty Men’s Cancer Center hold monthly multidisciplinary conferences with visiting professors to compare their techniques with leading surgeons.

Surgeons at Morristown Memorial also have access to an onsite skills lab where surgeons can perform new techniques using computer simulation and models.

“I enjoy the constant challenges and advances of surgery,” says Dr. Atlas, “and I am personally rewarded when I see patients recovering and doing well following their procedures.”

“

Becoming a great surgeon isn’t the work of one person. It takes continuous education and collaboration with other medical professionals to stay on the leading edge. At Morristown Memorial Hospital, we’re committed to learning and applying the latest techniques so patients won’t have to leave the community to receive expert care.

—Ian Atlas, MD, board-certifi ed urologist and president of the medical staff for Morristown Memorial Hospital

“

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CONTRARY TO POPULAR BELIEF, strokes don’t always kill, they don’t always leave you paralyzed and they’re not a health problem that can’t be treated. In fact, if you make it to the hospital in time, several treatment options are available to stop stroke and potentially reverse any damage that has already occurred. However, many people are quick to ignore and dismiss stroke symptoms, which can be subtle and easy to misinterpret—and that can have serious consequences.

“Stroke symptoms don’t necessarily hurt, so people often don’t recognize stroke as a true medical emergency,” says Shalini Bansil, MD, medical director of the Stroke Center at Overlook Hospital. “It’s important for people to understand that they need to get to a hospital as soon as possible so we can confirm they are having a stroke and then start treatment.”

Prompt TreatmentWithin the past few years, researchers across the country have realized that early

stroke treatment can have a significant impact on patient outcome. Clot-busting medications called tissue plasminogen activators (tPA) can break up a stroke-causing blood clot within the brain if administered within three hours of stroke onset.

“We realize tPA can be a lifesaver for these patients, so we want to make sure they get treatment as early as possible,” says John Halperin, MD, medical director for the Atlantic Neuroscience Institute. “To streamline stroke patients through the emergency department and get them diagnosed as quickly as possible, we’ve instituted a ‘Code Gray’ policy.”

Upon administration of a Code Gray, an emergency medicine physician, neurologist, radiologist and a computed tomography (CT) technologist are all mobilized so that a patient’s blood can be immediately drawn and tested. The patient can then be rushed to the CT scanner to determine if there is a clot within the brain.

“Overlook Hospital has already received accreditation as a primary stroke center from the Joint Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Organizations, and Morristown Memorial Hospital has its application in now for the same designation,” Dr. Halperin says. “We’ve proven time and time again that we’re the area’s leaders in stroke treatment.”

How to Recognize a Stroke

Learn the symptoms of stroke and pass this knowledge on to others!

❒ Sudden numbness in the face, arm or leg (especially on one side of the body)

❒ Sudden confusion, or trouble speaking or understanding speech

❒ Sudden trouble seeing in one or both eyes❒ Sudden trouble walking, dizziness, loss of

balance or coordination❒ Sudden severe headache with no known

cause

If you suspect stroke, follow these three steps:1. Ask the person to smile.2. Ask the person to say a simple sentence

like “It is raining today.” 3. Ask the person to raise both arms.

If he or she has trouble with any one of these tasks, call 911 immediately and describe the symptoms to the dispatcher.

"

During a stroke, every second counts. That’s because for every second a blood clot prevents oxygenated blood from reaching the brain—which is what happens during an ischemic stroke—up to 32,000 brain cells are permanently lost.

Seconds Countin a Stroke

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Taking

HEART HEALTHinto Your Own HandsThe numbers are startling: Nearly 5 million Americans are living with heart failure, and 550,000 new cases are diagnosed each year, according to the American Heart Association. While this serious condition has no cure, heart failure patients can live full, enjoyable lives with the right treatments and active attention to lifestyle.

Date: September 26

Weight gain/loss: -1.2 pounds

Blood pressure: 130/80

Exercise: walked for 45 minutes at the park

Heart Success patients at Atlantic Health receive

charts to record their weight, blood pressure,

exercise, medications and other factors that help

them track their progress toward healthier hearts.

THE HEART SUCCESS PROGRAM at Morristown Memorial and Overlook Hospitals offers self-care clinics for heart failure patients to help them monitor their own health, recognize signs of complications and take steps to correct them before life-threatening problems arise.

Daily DiligencePatients with diabetes must practice diligent self-monitoring of

critical indicators such as blood glucose levels. Similarly, Heart Success patients monitor factors such as their weight on a daily basis to determine how much water they are retaining from salt consumption—which contributes to high blood pressure.

“In the early days of diabetes treatment, the philosophy was that physicians could take care of patients better than they could take care of themselves,” says Frank Smart, MD, chair of cardiology, vice chair of the department of cardiovascular medicine at Morristown Memorial Hospital and vice chair of the cardiovascular service line, Atlantic Health. “However, endocrinologists found that empowering patients to manage their own conditions works much better. Knowing this, we felt the same could be true for heart disease patients, as most cardiovascular diseases are similar to diabetes in that the major risk factors are controllable.”

Thorough EducationHeart Success patients at Morristown Memorial receive thorough

education about salt intake and other dietary considerations from specially trained nurse practitioners. Additionally, the nurses help patients fine-tune dosages and timing of blood pressure medications and other prescription medications to increase effectiveness and lessen unpleasant side effects such as fatigue.

“What makes our approach to treating cardiovascular disease unique is that it’s not about physicians,” says Dr. Smart. “Rather, the Heart Success Program is about patients learning to be advocates of their own heart health through personal interaction with nurse practitioners and increasing accountability. That’s why it’s tremendously successful at helping patients improve their quality of life.”

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2006 Annual Wellness Lecture Living Longer, Living Better … How to Improve Your Odds featuring Dr. Mehmet OzMehmet Oz, MD, MBA, cardiovascular surgeon and author of several books including You: The Owner’s Manual, will speak on how your body works and ages, and how to improve your understanding of how to live a healthier, younger and better life. Wednesday, November 17:00 to 8:30 pmMorristown Memorial Hospital, Malcolm Forbes Amphitheater, Level BPresenter: Mehmet Oz, MD, MBA

Teenagers, Alcohol and Drugs: Confronting the IssuesParents and school and community professionals will find this presentation and interactive panel discussion on prevention and practical intervention strategies valuable.Thursday, October 267:00 to 9:00 pmMorristown Memorial Hospital, Malcolm Forbes Amphitheater, Level BPresenter: John Knight, MDAssociate Professor of Pediatrics, Harvard Medical School, Children’s Hospital Boston

Health and WellnessBeginning Steps to Permanent Weight Control Learn about healthy selections, portion control and handling slip-ups.Monday, October 97:30 to 8:30 pmLakeland Hills YMCA, 100 Fanny Road, Mountain LakesPresenter: Annette Rossi, RD

Creating a Safe Environment for a Person with Alzheimer’sLearn to structure the day by using creative and flexible problem-solving techniques.Wednesday, October 11, 6:30 to 8:30 pmCareOne, 151 Madison Avenue, MorristownPresenter: Amy Matthews, Education Coordinator and MMH Health Professionals

“Out of the Shadow”A documentary film on schizophrenia, followed by a panel discussion and question-and-answer session with mental health professionalsWednesday, October 117:00 to 9:00 pmMorristown Memorial Hospital, Malcolm Forbes Amphitheater, Level B

Keeping Yourself Healthy While Being a Caregiver Workshop will help participants recognize their own needs and be able to identify caregiver stress to maintain health and well-being.Wednesday, October 256:30 to 8:30 pmCareOne, 151 Madison Avenue Amy Matthews, Education Coordinator and MMH Health Professionals

Treating Vertebral Compression Fractures from Osteoporosis and CancerLearn about prevention, diagnosis, risk factors and treatment options. Thursday, October 262:00 to 3:00 pmMorristown Memorial Hospital, Malcolm Forbes Amphitheater, Level BPresenter: A Morristown Memorial Hospital physician

Keeping Yourself Injury Free Learn how to take the aches and pains out of your physical activity with safe and effective ways to minimize injuries.Tuesday, November 77:00 to 8:00 pmSomerset Hills YMCA, 140 Mount Airy Road, Basking RidgePresenter: Peter Blank, DO

Hypnosis for Smoking CessationOvercome the desire to smoke through group hypnosis and behavior modification techniques. Fee: $60.Tuesday, November 77:00 to 9:00 pm95 Madison Avenue, Level B, Suite B-06Presenter: Certified Hypnotherapist

Hypnosis for Weight ReductionMake subtle changes to permanently reduce your weight through hypnotic suggestion. Fee: $60.Tuesday, November 287:00 to 9:00 pm95 Madison Avenue, Level B, Suite B-06Presenter: Certified hypnotherapist

Treating Chronic Pain Learn about treatment options available for chronic pain, such as oral medications, epidural and spinal cord stimulation and implantable drug pumps.Wednesday, November 156:30 to 7:30 pmMorristown Memorial Hospital, Auditorium B, Level BPresenters: Michael Rudman, MD, and Richard Winne, MD

Passionately Pink: Breast Health 2006Buddy up and join us for an update of breast health and learn what your risks are, prevention and treatment that is available.Wednesday, October 117:00 to 8:00 pmMadison YMCA, 111 Kings Road, MadisonPresenter: Mona El-Gabry, MD

Importance of Cardiac Stress TestsJoin us as we learn about what stress tests are and the importance of getting evaluated. Monday, October 307:30 to 8:30 pmLakeland Hills YMCA, 100 Fanny Road, Mountain Lakes Presenter: John Cosmi, MD

Yoga—Pilates (Mixed Levels/Beginners Welcome) This class teaches Yoga and Pilates poses that will help you reduce your weight and stress levels plus strengthen your abdominal muscles. Call for fees. Mondays, 4:30 to 5:30 pmWednesdays, 5:45 to 6:45 am and 4:30 to 5:30 pmAtlantic Mind Body Center, Ground Floor, Atlantic Rehabilitation Institute Presenter: Madeline Marchell, Yoga Instructor

Unless noted otherwise, please call 1-800-247-9580 to register for any of these programs. All programs are free unless otherwise indicated. Atlantic Health also offers a wide range of parenting classes on topics including prepared childbirth, infant care, nutrition and much more. For more information, dates and times, please call (973) 971-5027.

calendar of events

12 well aware

Wu Tai Chi Class (Beginners, Intermediate and Advanced)Tai Chi promotes relaxation, improves energy and may be beneficial for any type of medical problem. Fee: $16 per class or $84 for 6 weeks.Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays, call for timesAtlantic Mind Body Center, Second Floor, Thebaud BuildingPresenters: Ameurfina H. Nazario, MS, and Atlantic Mind Body Movement Clinician

QiCong Breathing and movement exercises to help enhance your well-being.Mondays, 6:00 to 7:00 pmCarol G. Simon Cancer Center, Mind Body Conference RoomPresenter: Jean Marie Rosone, LCSW

Jin Shin Jyutsu Self-Help ClassLearn tools and techniques to help support your body’s ability to heal itself. Second and fourth Mondays3:30 to 4:30 pmCarol G. Simon Cancer Center, Conference Room Presenter: Debbie Burnet

ScreeningsBone Density ScreeningA noninvasive ultrasound gives you an immediate t-score, which indicates your risk for osteoporosis. Individual counseling and educational handouts on diet and exercise provided.Thursday, October 1210:00 am to 1:00 pmLakeland Hills YMCA, 100 Fanny Road, Mountain Lakes

Get in “Step” with a Free Foot Screening Join us at our brand-new Wound Care Center and have your feet evaluated for potential problems.Fridays, October 20 and November 171:00 to 4:00 pmWound Care Center, 182 South Street, Suite 3, Morristown

Stroke Screening Have a health care professional evaluate your risk for stroke through cholesterol and glucose testing, blood pressure and pulse check and carotid artery assessment. Individual counseling provided.Friday, November 1710:00 am to 1:00 pmFellowship Village, 8000 Fellowship Road, Basking Ridge

Blood Pressure ScreeningLearn your numbers and ways to reduce your risk for heart attack and stroke.

October 3 and November 79:00 to 11:00 amRockaway Shop Rite, 437 Route 46 West, Rockaway

October 4 and November 1, 10:00 am to NoonWharton Shop Rite, 314 Route 15, Wharton

October 6 and November 3Noon to 3:00 pmParsippany Shop Rite, 808 Route 46, Parsippany

Tuesday, October 2410:00 am to NoonWest Morris YMCA; 14 Dover Chester Road, Randolph

Blood Pressure and Body Fat ScreeningCome learn your numbers and what you can do to reduce your risk for heart attack and stroke. Friday, December 1Noon to 3:00 pmParsippany Shop Rite, 808 Route 46, Parsippany

Support GroupsKnit One Talk TooA group designed to support creativity and healing.First and third Wednesdays1:00 to 2:30 pmCarol G. Simon Cancer Center, Conference RoomPresenter: Jean Marie Rosone, LCSW

Osteoporosis Registration not required.Thursdays, October 19, November 1610:30 am to NoonMadison YMCA, 1 Randolph Stoddard Drive, Conference Room, MadisonPresenter: Angele Thompson

Arthritis and Osteoporosis Support Group Healthy Living with ArthritisThursday, November 910:30 am to NoonMorris County Library, 30 East Hanover Avenue, WhippanyPresenter: Marie Herbert Bartello, RN, MSN

Arthritis and Osteoporosis Support Group Building Better BonesRegistration not required.Thursday, October 1210:30 am to NoonMorris County Library, 30 East Hanover Avenue, WhippanyPresenter: Margie Bissinger, MS PT

Arthritis Support GroupFibromyalgiaThursdays, October 5, November 211:00 am to NoonAtlantic Rehabilitation Institute Presenter: Michael Horowitz, MD

Diabetes Support GroupsType 1 Insulin PumpFirst Thursday of every other month7:00 to 8:00 pmMorristown Memorial Hospital, Department of Medicine Conference Room, First Floor

Type 2Wednesday, October 187:00 to 8:00 pmMorristown Memorial Hospital, Adult Diabetes Center, Anderson B

calendar of events

well aware 13

Help forKidney CancerJust a few years ago, patients with advanced kidney cancer had few treatment options available to them outside of surgery. Today, Overlook Hospital is one of the country’s leading providers of high-dose interleukin, a promising medical therapy that can possibly shrink tumors and extend a patient’s life.

Assessing the Pain

➙ If the pain lasts less than fi ve minutes and your child returns to his or her activity, it is unlikely to be anything serious, even if it comes and goes for many days.

➙ If your child is grimacing and frowning and has stopped routine activities, the pain is probably moderate and you should pay close attention.

➙ If your child is lying down with his or her legs fl exed and crying, the pain could be severe and should be evaluated by your child’s physician.

“STOMACHACHES ARE ONE OF THE TOP THREE COMPLAINTS of children who visit school nurses,” says Nader Youssef, MD, pediatric gastroenterologist and director for the Center for Pediatric Irritable Bowel & Motility Disorders for Goryeb Children’s Hospital of Atlantic Health. “Parents have to assess how severe the problem is by observing their children and knowing them well enough to understand when to see a physician.”

Determining the Cause Some stomachaches could be caused

by underlying medical conditions, such as unrecognized allergies, reflux disease, constipation or lactose intolerance. However, the pain could also be attributed to hypersensitivity syndrome—or “irritable bowel syndrome,” when a child actually feels her digestive tract at work and interprets that as discomfort or pain.

Children who show a pattern of stomach discomfort should see their physicians to rule out any medical causes. Additionally, children who suffer from stomachaches accompanied by fever, weight loss, blood in the stool, waking in the night with pain, difficulty with swallowing or pain with urination should see their physicians immediately.

For a referral to an Atlantic Health physician, call 1-800-247-9580.

“Mom,My

Tummy Hurts!”

Your child is complaining of a stomachache and doesn’t want to go to school. You suspect he may be trying to avoid his upcoming math test. How can you tell if his pain is real?

INTERLEUKIN ISN’T ACTUALLY A NEW DRUG; it’s the chemical naturally produced within the body that makes you feel ill when you have the flu.

Within the past decade or so, medical researchers have learned that intense doses of interleukin—usually at 10 to 100 times what the body normally produces—combined with medications to stimulate the immune system can kill kidney cancer cells in select patients. It may also prevent the growth of new cancer cells for up to 12 months.

The interleukin protein works by stimulating infection-fighting white blood cells called lymphocytes to kill viruses, bacteria, foreign proteins and certain forms of cancer.

“Interleukin therapy often involves longer stays in the hospital so the patients’ livers and neurological systems can be monitored,” says Bonni Lee Gearhart, MD, board-certified oncologist and director of oncology education for Overlook Hospital. “However, it’s a promising treatment, because the medication will help cure 10 to 20 percent of patients.”

14 well aware

Food for Thought:

Is Going Organic Worth It?CONSUMPTION OF ORGANIC FOOD—food produced without the use of artificial pesticides and synthetic fertilizers—in the United States has grown by as much as 20 percent in recent years (compared to a 2 percent growth in conventional food sales), and reports estimate that number will double by 2009. But are organic foods worth the extra cost? Well Aware breaks down which foods to splurge on and which to avoid.

BANANAS Cost for organic: 30 percent more Why it’s not worth it: Any pesticide you may be consuming is likely lost with the peel.

BROCCOLI Cost for organic: 50 percent moreWhy it’s not worth it: While vegetables such as spinach, bell peppers and potatoes are worth the splurge,

veggies like broccoli, asparagus, cauliflower and onions typically don’t contain pesticide residue.

While vegetables

asparagus, cauliflower

Your Guide to

All Things Organic“100% organic”: No synthetic ingredients are

allowed by law.“Organic”: At least 95 percent of ingredients are

organically produced.“Made with Organic Ingredients”: At least 70

percent of ingredients are organic; the other 30 percent are from a list approved by the U.S. Department of Agriculture.

“Free-range” or “free-roaming”: Animals received an undetermined amount of daily outdoor access.

“Natural” or “All Natural”: Doesn’t mean organic, but does indicate that meat and poultry products may not contain any artifi cial fl avoring, colors, chemical preservatives or synthetic ingredients. However, claims aren’t checked.Source: Consumer Reports, February 2006

Other items that aren’t worth the added expense include seafood and cosmetics. Also, no conclusive evidence exists to support the need for organic meat, poultry or dairy products.

BABY FOOD Cost for organic:Shop around. The price of organic, jarred baby food runs the gamut from a few cents extra to more than a dollar over non-organic baby food. Why it’s worth the splurge: Children (as well as pregnant and breastfeeding women) should eat organic food to protect developing immune systems and organs such as the brain and liver from damaging toxins, says the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

APPLES Cost for organic: 50 percent moreWhy it’s worth the splurge: Apples, along with cherries, grapes, peaches and berries, are on the organic must-buy list because even after washing, the U.S. Department of Agriculture found that they carry higher levels of pesticide residue than others.

Worth It

Not Worth It

well aware 15

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1-800-247-9580 atlantichealth.org A Proud Partner of the Cancer Institute of New Jersey

Cancer, the gloves are off.

The Carol G. Simon Cancer Center at Morristown Memorial Hospitaland the Cancer Center at OverlookHospital.

The Cancer Centers, part of Atlantic Health,

are leading the fight against cancer.

We’re the first in the nation to launch CT guided radiation therapy.

First in the Northeast to have a miracle called the CyberKnife.

And first in the state to launch a men’s cancer center.

With innovative technology, outstanding resources, and highly

trained oncologists, cancer doesn’t stand a chance against us.

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This publication in no way seeks to serve as a substitute for professional medical care. Consult your physician before undertaking any form of medical treatment or adopting any exercise program or dietary guidelines.

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