By Ginny Kropf, correspondent Posted 22 October 2024 at 8:56 am
MEDINA – Orleans Community Health has announced the opening of a new Ear, Nose and Throat Clinic at Medina Memorial Hospital.
Jill Klotzbach
Leading this new initiative is Jill Klotzbach, family nurse practitioner, and a native of Western New York.
“Our team is extremely excited to welcome Jill and the ENT Clinic to Medina Memorial Hospital,” said Marc Shurtz, CEO/CIO of Orleans Community Health. “We’re continually trying to bring services to our area that are both lacking and needed in the community. Not only is this a valuable service, but the recent news of the clinic closing in Middleport makes it even more critical.”
Klotzbach brings a wealth of experience and expertise to her role, according to Scott Robinson, director of Marketing, Communication and Outreach at the hospital.
“She is going to be a huge asset to our team,” Robinson said.
Klotzbach began her nursing career at Strong Memorial Hospital in Rochester, and has since practiced in Ohio and Texas before returning to her roots. Her diverse clinical background encompasses medical-surgical, dialysis, intensive care, long-term care, operating room, allergy and ENT services.
A graduate of Daemen College and St. John Fisher, she holds multiple certifications, including those from the National Certifying Board of Otorhinolaryngology and Head-Neck Nurses, the American Academy of Otolaryngic Allergy and the Council of Occupational Hearing Conservation. She has also contributed her skills to the local community by providing hearing test screenings for various businesses and serving as an on-call nurse at Crossroads House in Batavia, where she provided compassionate end-of-life care.
“I am excited to return to Western New York and serve the communities that are close to my heart,” Klotzbach said. “My focus at the new ENT Clinic will be to offer high-quality care for all age groups, with an emphasis on ENT and allergy diagnosis.”
In her personal life, Klotzbach enjoys traveling, golf, swimming and pickleball. She also cherishes the time spent with family and friends, especially during trivia nights. She has one son who lives in Denver.
The new ENT Clinic at Orleans Community Health aims to address the growing needs of the community with specialized care and accessible services. Everyone is invited to experience the compassionate care Klotzbach and her dedicated team will provide.
For more information or to schedule an appointment at the ENT Clinic, click here or contact (585) 798-2550.
Grant available in GLOW counties to help remediate lead in apartments and homes
Press Release, Genesee and Orleans County Health Departments
This year, National Lead Poisoning Prevention Week (NLPPW) takes place from October 20-26.
NLPPW is a call to unite individuals, organizations, and government to reduce childhood lead exposure by raising awareness about lead poisoning prevention. This week emphasizes various ways parents, caregivers, and communities can reduce children’s exposure to lead and protect them from its harmful effects.
“Lead poses a significant danger to children because their developing bodies absorb more lead than adults, and their brains and nervous systems are more vulnerable to its harmful effects,” stated Darren Brodie, Environmental Health Director of the Genesee and Orleans County Health Department (GO Health).
These effects can include developmental delays, learning disabilities, weight loss, hearing loss, seizures, and more. Children can be exposed to lead from paint used in homes before 1978, contaminated water or soil, and products from other countries (spices, pottery, toys, etc.).
According to the 2023 American Community Survey, approximately 73.6% of housing units in Genesee County and 73.0% of housing units in Orleans County were built before 1978 and may have lead exposure hazards. Homes built before this year are at higher risk for having contaminated lead-based paint, which can deteriorate over time and release toxic lead dust or chips, posing significant health risks, especially to young children.
Lead poisoning is entirely preventable. We encourage parents and community members to learn about the dangers of lead exposure by exploring the three key messages of National Lead Poisoning Prevention Week:
1. Get the Facts
Any exposure to lead hazards can be dangerous, particularly for children.
The only safe blood lead level is zero!
The most common way children are exposed to lead is by ingesting tiny dust particles or paint chips, often too small to see.
Other potential sources of lead include metal toys, wooden toys or furniture painted with lead-based paint, metal jewelry, lead-glazed pottery, certain candles, spices, and even makeup.
2. Get Your Child Tested
A blood test is the way to determine if your child has lead poisoning.
Most children with detectable levels of lead in their blood show no noticeable symptoms.
If you think your child may have been exposed to lead, talk to their healthcare provider about getting a blood lead test.
Blood lead tests are also recommended for pregnant women who believe they may have been exposed to lead.
3. Get Your Home Tested
Many homes built before 1978 contain lead-based paint. If your home was built before that year it is important to have it tested for lead paint.
If you rent, request that your landlord have the home or apartment tested.
For more information on testing your home, contact GO Health.
The Genesee County Health Department has a Lead Hazard Control and Healthy Homes Grant, funded by the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), that can address lead-based paint hazards and other health concerns in homes and apartments in Genesee, Livingston, Orleans, and Wyoming counties.
“This funding is designated for lead-based paint remediation as well as other health-related home repairs,” said Gabrielle Lanich, Lead Program Coordinator for GO Health. “Eligible homeowners and property managers with qualifying tenants can apply for these funds.”
For more information or to determine eligibility for these programs, contact the Genesee County Health Department at 585-344-2580 ext. 5555 or Health.GOlead@geneseeny.gov.
For more information about GO Health Programs and services and eligibility details for lead programs, visit GOHealthNY.org or contact your local health department:
This work from Peter Langen of Batavia is representative of the artistic expression that empowers people to be successful in their recovery journey. Richmond Memorial Library will be hosting the Grateful for Recovery art show throughout the month of November.
BATAVIA – Understanding that creative expression serves as a therapeutic means toward healing and self-esteem, the Suicide Prevention Coalition of Genesee County and UConnectCare are partnering to sponsor the Grateful for Recovery art show throughout November.
“The mission of this art show at Richmond Memorial Library is to let the community know that people do recover from substance use disorder, mental health and other issues while giving them the opportunity to share their experiences and break down the stigma surrounding recovery,” said Sue Gagne, Suicide Prevention Coalition coordinator.
This local initiative follows on the footsteps of the national Art of Recovery project started earlier this year by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration.
Gagne said all submissions will be displayed in the Gallery Room at the library from Nov. 1-30. Artists are requested to drop off their work by Oct. 28 at The Recovery Station, 5256 Clinton St. Rd., Batavia. Participants may submit up to three pieces of art for this show.
“We’re accepting work in various genres – original drawings, paintings, photographs, mixed media, poetry and more,” Gagne noted, adding that family members of those in recovery are welcome to submit as well as those under 18 years old, with parental permission.
“Additionally, we’re asking that each artist submit a short bio or a paragraph about his or her journey in recovery,” she said.
Artists are able to sell their work through this show, Gagne added. Each piece does not have to be framed but all pieced need to have a proper hanging system or hardware to be placed in the Gallery Room.
For more information about the show and/or to receive entry and consent forms, contact Gagne at sgagne@uconnectcare.org or at 585-813-6448.
The “scene” is set for UConnectCare’s Prevention Department to “direct” local school and community projects during this month’s Red Ribbon Week, which is draping itself in the theme, “Life is a Movie, Film Drug Free.”
Red Ribbon Week, the nation’s largest and longest-running drug-use prevention campaign, will take place from Oct. 23-31. The observance has touched the lives of millions of people around the world since its inception nearly 40 years ago.
This year’s theme, “Life is a Movie, Film Drug Free,” encourages everyone to contribute to creating safe, healthy, and drug-free communities,” said Sheila Harding, UConnectCare assistant director of Prevention. “It highlights the significant impact that healthcare professionals, educators, parents, and others can have through their dedication and commitment.”
The campaign was started as a response to the 1985 murder of Drug Enforcement Agency Agent Enrique Camarena in Mexico by members of the Guadalajara drug cartel.
Angered by this terrible act, parents and youths in communities across the United States began wearing red ribbons as a symbol of their commitment to raise awareness of the killing and destruction caused by drugs.
Today, Red Ribbon Week, which is sponsored by the National Family Partnership, serves to educate youth and encourage participation in drug prevention activities.
UConnectCare Prevention educators reported that numerous schools in Genesee and Orleans counties have scheduled Red Ribbon Week activities. Furthermore, red ribbons are being placed in the City of Batavia and the cupola at the Old Courthouse will be lit up in red during that week.
“We invite you to celebrate not just this week, but to embrace healthy choices throughout the year and inspire those around you to do the same,” Harding said.
For more information about Red Ribbon Week and the substance use prevention efforts at UConnectCare, contact Harding at sharding@uconnectcare.org.
By Ginny Kropf, correspondent Posted 11 October 2024 at 10:40 am
Provided photo: Albion resident Cheryl Kast, a physician assistant with the Albion Healthcare Center, examines a young patient at the facility.
ALBION – A physician assistant with the Albion Healthcare Center has been awarded the prestigious United Hero Award from United Healthcare.
Cheryl Kast is recipient of the award which recognizes healthcare professionals who demonstrate exceptional commitment to developing outstanding patient experiences, according to Scott Robinson, director of Marketing at Orleans Community Health.
“Cheryl has consistently exceeded performance targets in three critical areas of patient experience surveys,” Robinson said.
She achieved 92% in getting needed care; 88% in care coordination; and 95% in provider-patient conversations.
These impressive achievements highlight Kast’s dedication to ensuring that her patients receive the highest quality of care and support, Robinson said. Her ability to connect with patients and effectively coordinate their care exemplifies what the primary care team at the Albion Healthcare Center strive to achieve.
“We are incredibly proud of Cheryl for this well-deserved recognition,” Robinson said. “Her commitment to patient care not only reflects her professionalism, but also sets a standard for excellence within our team.”
More information about Kast and the rest of the primary care team at the Albion Healthcare Center is available by calling (585) 589-CARE.
KNOWLESVILLE – United Way of Orleans County and Cornell Cooperative Extension announce the launch of their new project, Orleans Connected Healthy Educated Food Systems (CHEFS).
Inspired by the success of the Stone Soup program, the United Way and CCE worked together to secure a $200,000 grant from Highmark Blue Cross Blue Shield of Western New York’s Blue Fund.
The new CHEFS program will offer three classes to accommodate both new and returning participants.
The first class is similar to Stone Soup. Participants will learn how to prepare cost effective meals using the Kitchen Kits that are provided. Once they have completed the course, participants will have the skills and confidence they need to prepare nutritious meals at home. They will also be prepared for the two new CHEFS classes.
The second class covers Food as Medicine. Participants in this program will receive a health tracker and learn about the role of food in managing blood glucose, blood pressure and cholesterol.
In the third class, which covers practical cooking, participants will receive a lunch kit. Building on the kitchen skills developed in the first class, participants will learn more sophisticated kitchen skills to allow them to do meal prep and cook more complex dishes.
The Orleans CHEFS program will also continue the Fresh Food Rx. This allows Orleans County families to receive prescriptions, along with prepaid vouchers, from their primary care provider for fresh, local produce.
The United Way plans to begin convening a food systems working group after the start of the year to produce a food systems policy.
To find out more or sign up for one of the three classes, call 585-798-4265 or email asc355@cornell.edu.
By Ginny Kropf, correspondent Posted 6 October 2024 at 8:48 am
MEDINA – Orleans Community Health has announced free 3D mammography screenings throughout the months of October and November.
The service celebrates October as Breast Cancer Awareness Month, according to Scott Robinson, director of Marketing at Community Partners.
Prevention saves lives, and the free screenings are being offered to women age 40 and older to promote early detection and education to help combat this disease.
3D mammography is a revolutionary screening tool that enhances the accuracy of breast cancer detection. Unlike traditional mammograms, this advanced technology captures multiple images of the breast, allowing radiologists to examine the breast tissue layer by layer. This results in improved detection rates, particularly for women with dense breast tissue.
Anyone with a previously scheduled mammogram or who books an appointment for October or November is eligible for this free screening offer.
“We encourage all women, especially those aged 40 and older, to take advantage of this opportunity for a potentially life-saving test,” Robinson said.
In addition to 3-D mammography, onsite ultrasounds are also available for women who require additional diagnostic screenings. Robinson said their team of experienced professionals is dedicated to providing compassionate care in a comfortable environment.
Appointments may be scheduled by calling (585) 798-8055. Community members are encouraged to share this information with friends and family to help spread the word about the importance of breast cancer screening.
By Ginny Kropf, correspondent Posted 5 October 2024 at 8:47 am
Photos by Ginny Kropf: Keynote speaker at For Women Only, Darlene Rich, is surrounded by old friends and former co-workers at Medina Memorial Hospital. With her, clockwise from left, are Rebecca Mannella, who headed cardiac rehab when Rich worked there; Lori Condo, assistant controller; and Cindy Perry, retired head of Community Partners, whose job included planning the For Women Only event.
LYNDONVILLE – For Women Only, the annual event sponsored by Orleans Community Health which raises funds for cancer services, took place Thursday night at White Birch Golf Course.
First on the program was recognition of cancer survivors by Lori Condo, assistant controller at Orleans Community Health and chair of For Women Only. She asked those who had been survivors of cancer to stand up as she called out the number of years – one year, five years, 10 years, 20 years and more than 20 years. Each woman standing received a carnation.
Next, was keynote speaker Darlene Rich, a cancer survivor of 18 years and clerk for the Town of Shelby, now in her 17th year. She not only shared her battle with breast cancer, but the sorrow of having her son diagnosed with brain cancer and the age of 3 and dying at age 23.
Rich has been a regular attendee of For Women Only over the years, and called it “the nicest event.”
She described how she had her mammograms regularly and wasn’t worried when it came time to schedule one in 2006. She was working in heart rehab at Medina Memorial Hospital under Rebecca Mannella when she learned her breast surgeon saw something on her X-ray and wanted a biopsy. She underwent a lumpectomy, and then was given six weeks of radiation and the choice of chemotherapy every three weeks for six treatments or a powerful dose for five days.
“I wanted to get it over with and move on, so I chose the five-day treatment,” Rich said. “That mammogram saved my life.”
On Oct. 20. 2006, she returned to work and was greeted by a mini For Women Only arranged by Mannella and Cindy Perry. Perry was head of Community Partners at the time and in charge of organizing the annual For Women Only for the community.
“They were here, along with my family, to support me all the way,” Rich said.
Her advice to the women in the room was to “Stay positive, stay focused and fight. And remember to get your mammogram.”
Condo announced the evening had grossed $6,300 to provide essential cancer services.
(Left) Cindy Perry, who worked at Community Partners for many years and planned the first For Women Only 25 years ago at the former Village Inn, was introduced and presented flowers by Lori Condo, on behalf of the hospital. (Right) Lori Condo, assistant controller at Orleans Community Health and chair of For Women Only, introduces keynote speaker Darlene Rich to guests Thursday night.
Representatives from several Orleans County agencies were on hand with tables of information and free gifts to guests.
From the Orleans County Health Department, Nola Goodrich and Laiken Ricker, a New York State Public Health Fellow with Orleans and Genesee Health departments, handed out information on rabies, lead and healthy homes.
At the Orleans County Mental Health table, director Danielle Figura and staff member Linda Karp made sure everyone knew about the suicide and crisis hotline, 988.
Denise Johnston-Burris, director of nursing at Hospice, provided information on why they temporarily closed the Martin-Linsin Residence.
“Referrals just stopped coming in,” she said.
She added they are doing everything possible to turn the situation around. She said many people have misinformation about Hospice, including the length a resident may stay there. She said they have had one individual who was there for 2 1/2 years.
A moment of recognition was given to Cindy Perry for her years at Community Partners and planning the annual For Women Only. She recalls the first event at the Village Inn at Childs, when about 30 to 40 women attended. The event has since grown steadily, usually attracting more than 100, and often a sellout.
Kim Gray, Medina Memorial Hospital’s chief nursing officer and director of surgical services, welcomes guests to the annual For Women Only.
Kim Gray, the hospital’s chief nursing officer and director of surgical services, has worked at the hospital more than 20 years.
“Our community hospital is an invaluable asset that provides accessible, personalized, cost-effective and community-focused healthcare,” Gray said. “We offer a wide range of services that are essential for the vitality of our community.”
Some of those services are a 24/7 Emergency Department, two dialysis centers (one in Medina and one in Batavia), a podiatry clinic, a wound care center dedicated to healing chronic wounds, a cardiology clinic, a cardiac services department which offers a full array of diagnostic testing and treatment options for patients with cardiac conditions and heart disease and a radiology department which plays a crucial role in early cancer screening by using techniques to detect abnormalities that could indicate cancer at an early stage.
These include general X-rays, ultrasound, CT-scans, nuclear medicine, 3-D mammography, bone density testing and MRIs. Full-service laboratories with blood drawing stations are located at the Medina hospital, at the Albion Healthcare Center and the Middleport site.
A new pediatric nurse practitioner, Leah Brenner, has recently joined the family medicine team at the Albion Healthcare Center.
The hospital’s surgery clinic is staffed by the team of doctors Misiti, Schratz, Hodge and Huff, offering comprehensive surgical services in several specialized areas.
During the past year, the hospital began offering the primary doctors the opportunity to order pulmonary function testing by the Respiratory Department, determining how well the lungs are working.
Inpatient services included the Medical/Surgical Department and Transitional Care Unit.
A highlight being announced today is that in October and November the hospital will be offering not only free 3-D mammogram screening, but if a patient needs to receive diagnostic testing through an ultrasound, the hospital will cover the co-pay.
“This is largely thanks to our past For Women Only funding,” Gray said.
The evening concluded with drawing of winners for the basket raffle and 50/50 drawing.
By Ginny Kropf, correspondent Posted 4 October 2024 at 4:51 pm
ALBION – Albion Healthcare Center has announced that Leah Brenner, a certified pediatric nurse practitioner with more than 20 years’ experience, will be joining their team on Nov. 4.
“Leah’s extensive expertise in pediatric emergency medicine and general pediatric practice comes at a crucial time, as our community faces a significant shortage of pediatric care providers,” said Scott Robinson, director of Marketing, Communications and Outreach at Orleans Community Health.
Brenner earned her bachelor of science in nursing from Brockport State College and her master of science in nursing from the University of Rochester. Her background includes pivotal roles in both Rochester and Washington, D.C. area, making her a valuable asset to our team, Robinson added.
“We are thrilled to welcome Leah,” said Alana Palone, clinic administrator for Orleans Community Health. “Her arrival comes at a vital moment for our community, as we strive to meet the demand for pediatric services. Leah’s dedication and skills will make a real difference in the lives of children and families in Orleans County.”
Brenner is passionate about providing comprehensive, high-quality care that addresses the development, physical and mental health needs of children. Outside of work, she enjoys camping cooking and spending quality time with her husband, three stepdaughters and their pets.
“We are excited to have Leah join our team at Albion Healthcare Center,” said Marc Shurtz, CEO/CIO for Orleans Community Health. “We continue to try to increase access to excellent healthcare. Our community shouldn’t have to travel to neighboring counties for these services.”
Appointments can now be scheduled by contacting the Albion Healthcare Center at (585) 589-CARE.
For more information about pediatric care at the Albion Healthcare Center, click here.
Press Release, Genesee and Orleans County Health Departments
KNOWLESVILLE – The Genesee and Orleans County Health Departments (GO Health) are offering their final 2024 free drive-thru rabies vaccination clinics in October. Funding for the rabies clinics are provided by the New York State Department of Health.
Vaccinations are free for dogs, cats and ferrets. Animals must be at least 3 months old. Each animal must be leashed or crated and accompanied by an adult who can control the animal. Limit 4 pets per car maximum.
The Genesee County Rabies Vaccination Clinic will be held on Thursday, Oct. 10, from 4 to 6 p.m. at the Genesee County Fairgrounds (5056 East Main Street, Batavia)
The Orleans County Rabies Vaccination Clinic will be held on Saturday, Oct. 19, from 9 to 11:30 a.m. at the Orleans County Fairgrounds (12690 State Route 31, Albion)
“We encourage all Genesee and Orleans County residents to take advantage of our last rabies immunization clinics of 2024 and ensure their pets are protected against rabies,” stated Paul Pettit, Public Health Director for GO Health. “Rabies continues to be a serious public health concern in both counties and is a preventable viral disease.”
To prevent the spread of rabies, the health department reminds residents to take the following precautions:
Keep your pets up-to-date on their rabies vaccinations.
Obey leash laws. Keep your pets under direct supervision and on a leash so they do not come in contact with wild or stray animals. If an animal bites your pet, seek veterinary assistance for the animal immediately and contact the health department.
Avoid contact with wild or stray animals. Do not handle, feed, touch, or attract wildlife (raccoons, skunks, bats, bunnies, rabbits, and foxes) or stray dogs and cats.
Never adopt wild animals or bring them into your home.
Prevent bats from entering living quarters. If you find a bat in your home, safely capture it and call the health department. Do not release it! For a video on how to safety capture a bat, click here.
Call your local animal control agency to remove any stray animals from your neighborhood or if you see an animal showing signs of rabies. Signs of rabies in animals may include aggression, excessive drool or saliva, confusion, hair loss, and loss of movement or function.
For more information about GO Health Programs and services, visit GOHealthNY.org or contact your local health department at:
By Ginny Kropf, correspondent Posted 26 September 2024 at 4:34 pm
(Left) Darlene Rich is the Shelby town clerk. (Right) Betty Sue Miller is director of Hoag Library in Albion.
LYNDONVILLE – With Orleans Community Health’s cancer services event, For Women Only, a week away, the hospital is announcing speakers, presentations and more, and making a plea for the community to honor and remember their loved ones who have suffered with cancer.
“This is the 25th year of this beloved event which brings the community together for an inspiring evening of support, friendship and solidarity, while raising funds to benefit those seeking services in the area,” said Scott Robinson, director of Marketing, Communication and Outreach.
A highlight of the event on Oct. 3 at the White Birch is a video presentation in which names and/or pictures of loved ones who have survived or died from cancer is shown on a giant screen throughout the evening. Names and photos may still be sent to srobinson@medinamemorial.org as a tribute to their strength and courage.
The evening will also feature a basket raffle, providing attendees with the chance to win fabulous prizes while contributing wo a worthy cause, Robinson said.
Two speakers have been announced – Betty Sue Miller, director of Hoag Library in Albion; and Darlene Rich, town of Shelby clerk. Both are cancer survivors and will share their personal stories, offering inspiration and hope to all in attendance.
Everyone is invited to be part of this powerful evening, whether they are a survivor, a friend or a supporter. Attendees will also have the opportunity to share their own experiences, fostering an environment of togetherness that serves as a reminder that we are all in this fight together.
“Join us for an evening of inspiration, support and camaraderie,” Robinson said. “Let us come together to make a difference in the lives of those battling cancer.”
By Ginny Kropf, correspondent Posted 26 September 2024 at 2:06 pm
MEDINA – Orleans Community Health Foundation has announced the date and site for its 30th annual Treasure Island fundraiser.
The event is scheduled Nov. 2 at White Birch Golf Course in Lyndonville.
“We are excited to announce the 30th Treasure Island,” said Foundation director Megan Johnson. “This special evening promises to be a night to remember, filled with camaraderie, entertainment and the opportunity to make a significant impact on our community.”
The evening will feature a silent auction with more than 100 items, ranging in value from $50 and beyond. People can browse items and begin bidding online days before the event.
A live auction will again be led by Wes Pickreign, with at least five exclusive items available for bid.
Pirate’s Pillage raffle will feature $50 tickets for a chance to win one of the live auction items, before the auction begins.
A favorite feature is the Lucky Cork Raffle, in which attendees have a chance to win a bottle of wine, liquor or beer for a $20 donation.
The evening also features an open bar, food stations with delicious offerings and music and entertainment by deejay JT Thomas.
A highlight of the evening will be the honoring of surgeons, Drs. Schratz, Hodge and Huff.
Major sponsors of the event are Jr. Wilson Sportsman Club, Takeform and Cooper Funeral Home/Mitchell Family Cremations and Funerals.
Sponsorship opportunities are still available by contacting Johnson at Orleans Community Health Foundation, (585) 798-8437, or e-mailing foundation@medinamemorial.org.
Event tickets are $50 each. Checks should be made payable to OCH Foundation and mailed to 200 Ohio St., Medina, 14103.
By Dr. Sarah Smith and Dr. Kelsey Izzo, pediatricians at Oak Orchard Health.
Now that kids are back in the classroom, we want to help you make sure they get as much out of their school days as possible. That means staying healthy, getting plenty of rest, and practicing all-around good habits. Here are some tips to help your family thrive this school year.
Avoid sickness—and prevent spread.
Start by getting your kids this year’s flu and COVID-19 vaccines. Vaccinations can help protect your kids from getting these viruses (and minimize symptoms if they do). Good hand hygiene goes a long way, too. Be sure kids wash their hands with soap and warm water and use hand sanitizer throughout the day.
If your kids get sick with fever, vomiting, and diarrhea they must stay home until symptoms have resolved. They can return when symptom free including fever-free without medicine for 24 hours.
Fuel their day.
A good day at school starts with good nutrition. Make sure your kids eat breakfast, whether at home or through a school meal program. Remember, a nutritious breakfast should include some form of protein or fruit. Protein at breakfast could come from eggs, and if you’re short on time, prepare them ahead as grab-and-go egg bites baked in muffin tins (here’s a great recipe: loveandlemons.com/egg-bites-recipe). Other protein sources include Greek yogurt, peanut butter, cheese, and nuts, which you can sprinkle over cereal.
If your school permits it, send your kids to school with a snack, too, so they have something to munch on during the day if they feel hungry. Granola bars, cheese sticks, and prepackaged small bags of nuts are good options.
Teach good backpack habits.
Kids can develop sore muscles and injuries from improperly packed or oversized gear. Make sure the backpack is the appropriate size for your child, and work with them on how to pack it so that the items inside are distributed evenly. Make sure they wear the backpack using both shoulder straps to avoid putting a strain on one side of their body. Make sure the straps are adjusted so that the bottom of the backpack sits just above the student’s waist. We recommend that parents routinely remind their kids to remove unnecessary items from their backpack to reduce excess weight.
Make sure they get their rest.
Getting back into a good sleep routine after summer break is vital. Create a good bedtime routine that eases them to sleep, such as a bath or reading books together. Consistency is essential—make sure that routine happens every night, even on weekends. Be sure your kids shut off all their screens and devices at least an hour before bed to help them wind down.
Watch for signs of anxiety.
The school year can be a source of great anxiety for kids. If you are struggling to get a child ready for school, it may be anxiety. Tummy aches—especially on a Sunday night—can be a red flag, too. So can frequent trips to the nurse’s office. Talk with your kids to reassure them. Bring them to school and drop them off for a few days if your schedule allows. And if symptoms of avoidance continue to the point that they are missing school, talk to your pediatrician. At Oak Orchard Health we have an expanded Behavioral Health Program for Children and Adolescents. We have therapists with a specialty in pediatric behavioral health that can collaborate with your pediatrician.
Encourage safe travel.
Do your kids know how to look both ways before crossing the street to get to their bus? Be sure they do. If their bus has seatbelts, remind them to wear them during the ride. If you drive your kids to school, the same rule applies to seatbelt use, of course. If you have a child who requires a car seat or booster seat, make sure they have the proper one for their height. Remember, children should always ride in the back seat until they turn thirteen.
Help your preschoolers adjust, too.
Watching their older siblings leave for school every day can be upsetting for preschool-aged children. Help them manage expectations by talking with them and creating a routine that includes when to expect their big brother or sister to return. There are also children’s books on this subject that can be helpful for preschoolers.
Need support as a parent? We’re here.
Oak Orchard Health (OOH) pediatricians are happy to work with parents on the issues they face with their growing families. To make an appointment, contact your nearest office at (585) 637-3905 or find an OOH pediatrician online at https://bit.ly/4eD6yhZ
Residents urged to take precautions from mosquito-borne illnesses
Press Release, Genesee & Orleans County Health Departments
A human case of West Nile Virus has been confirmed in Orleans County.
“West Nile Virus is most commonly spread by the bite of an infected mosquito,” stated Paul Pettit, Public Health Director for the Genesee and Orleans County Health Departments (GO Health). “The best protection against West Nile Virus and other mosquito-related illnesses is to prevent mosquito bites.”
Residents are encouraged to practice the following precautions:
Use an EPA-registered insect repellant and follow product label instructions. To find the best repellant for you, visit www.epa.gov/insect-repellents.
Minimize exposed skin by wearing protective clothing like long sleeves and long pants tucked into socks, especially when outdoors at dusk or dawn when mosquitos are most active.
Wear clothing and gear treated with permethrin.
Reduce mosquito population around your home and property by removing any standing water, such as by emptying buckets, containers, pots, planters and pool covers.
West Nile Virus infections occur most often during summer and early fall. Most people who are infected with West Nile Virus do not show any symptoms. According to the New York State Department of Health, roughly 20% of infected individuals will develop mild symptoms, including fever, headache, body aches, nausea, diarrhea, and rash. Severe illness may cause high fever, headache, neck stiffness, muscle weakness, disorientation, paralysis, and, in some cases, death. Individuals over the age of 50 are at highest risk for serious illness.
ALBION – Oak Orchard Health is excited to welcome Dr. Lalit K. Jain, a distinguished pediatrician, to our team.
Dr. Jain brings over 35 years of board-certified pediatric experience, including his recent role as Chief of Pediatrics at United Memorial Medical Center. Before that, he served as CEO and Lead Physician at Batavia Pediatrics.
“We are thrilled that Dr. Jain has chosen OOH in Albion to continue his pediatric practice. His commitment to the well-being of children in our community is widely recognized,” said Karen Kinter, CEO of Oak Orchard Health. “Dr. Jain appreciates the complexities of pediatric care and selected Oak Orchard Health for our comprehensive services, including our recently expanded behavioral health offerings in Albion and Brockport. Our team now includes more child and adolescent therapists working alongside our medical providers to develop optimal care solutions.”
Dr. Jain expressed his enthusiasm, stating, “I am excited to see patients at Oak Orchard Health in Albion. Working with children is my passion. My approach to patient care involves listening to children and their parents to truly understand their concerns. Building connections with patients of all ages is important to me.”
In addition to his clinical work, Dr. Jain is dedicated to combating childhood obesity. He led the “Get Fit” program, partnering with UMMC, the City of Batavia, Genesee County, the Batavia School District, and the YMCA—this initiative aimed to foster community environments that support healthy eating and physical activity.
Dr. Jain is accepting new patients. For more information, call (585) 589-5613.
This year, National Lead Poisoning Prevention Week (NLPPW) takes place from October 20-26.
KNOWLESVILLE – The Genesee and Orleans County Health Departments (GO Health) are offering their final 2024 free drive-thru rabies vaccination clinics in October. Funding for the rabies clinics are provided by the New York State Department of Health.
By Dr. Sarah Smith and Dr. Kelsey Izzo, pediatricians at Oak Orchard Health.
