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.

Press Release, United Way of Orleans County

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.

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.

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.

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:

• Orleans County: 585-589-3278
• Genesee County: 585-344-2580 ext. 5555

(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.”

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.

For more information on West Nile Virus, visit the New York State Department of Health.

For more information about GO Health Programs and services, visit GOHealthNY.org or contact your local health department at:

• Orleans County: 585-589-3278
• Genesee County: 585-344-2580 ext. 5555

Press Release, Oak Orchard Health

Dr. Lalit K. Jain

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.

Photos by Ginny Kropf: Gary Pask of Middleport waits for his wife Diane, who is getting information on Orleans Community Health’s first Resource Fair on Thursday afternoon.

MEDINA – The first Resource Fair sponsored by Orleans Community Health was a resounding success, according to Scott Robinson, director Marketing, Community and Outreach.

“We were slammed with people,” said Lori Condo, assistant controller, who helped register people in the front lobby. “We are so excited at the turnout.”

In addition to testing options in Imaging/Radiology and Laboratory departments, there were free services, information on billing and vendors from throughout the county providing health-related facts on their services.

The Lumps and Bumps Clinic with Dr. Devon Huff was one of the most popular features.

“The clinic was full most of the time,” Robinson said.

(Left) Vendors from service organizations in Orleans County lined the hallways of Orleans Community Health for the organization’s first Resource Fair. (Right) Kim Gray, chief nursing officer and director of Surgical Services at Medina Memorial Hospital, compares notes with surgeon Dr. Devon Huff, who held a Lumps and Bumps Clinic during the hospital’s first Resource Fair.  The clinic was one of the most popular features of the afternoon.

Vendors included U Connect Care, Orleans County Mental Health, Office for the Aging, Child and Family Services, Walsh Duffield (Medicare information), Hospice of Orleans County, M-Power Insurance Agency (Medicare information) and Cornell Cooperative Extension.

“This event is pretty cool,” said Sarah Martin, a nutritionist at Cooperative Extension, who handed out recipe cards with healthy recipes.

Other vendors handed out pens, candy, hand sanitizer informational cards on which to log prescriptions.

One couple who came to check out the fair was Gary and Diane Pask of Middleport.

“We local people are blessed with a good health facility and we wanted to see what they have in case we ever need it,” Gary said.

“We’re just being aware, checking out what is available,” Diane said.

“We had been talking about doing another Resource Fair in the spring, and this one was so successful, we may do it again next fall,” Robinson said. ‘We are very happy to be helping the community.”

Press Release, Genesee & Orleans County Health Departments

Back to school should mean new opportunities, not new addictions. As students return to the classroom this fall, educators and parents are not only preparing for a new academic year, but also the rising public health concern of vaping.

E-cigarettes can come in a variety of shapes and sizes, and in a school setting, these devices may blend in with other school supplies, as they may look like pens, USB drives, and even phone cases. This makes identifying these devices and protecting youth that much more difficult.

Studies show that vaping has become a rising concern in middle school aged children, as 3 percent of seventh graders in both Genesee and Orleans Counties reported vaping with nicotine.

“These years of a child’s life are very sensitive because their brains are still developing,” stated Paul Pettit, Public Health Director for Genesee and Orleans County Health Departments (GO Health). “As the rate of vaping rises among teens, we must equip families and kids with information and tools to stay healthy.”

There are several reasons why youth vape:

• Tobacco advertisers use vibrant colors and fun marketing strategies to increase youth participation in vaping. These ads are shown on social media, television, and streaming services, and promote vaping as a cheaper alternative to other tobacco products.
• Peer pressure and social influences during middle and high school are a main contributor to students trying an e-cigarette for the first time. Students report that they may be curious to try vaping from seeing a friend or family member use them.
• Availability of flavored e-cigarette products including youth-friendly flavors such as candy, fruit, mint, and menthol are the most widely used types of e-cigarettes among youth. According to the CLYDE Survey conducted by UConnectCare (formally GCASA), about 20% of 11th graders in Genesee and Orleans Counties reported using E-cigarettes or vapes that contain nicotine in 2022.
• Nicotine is in most e-cigarettes and is highly addictive. Those who use vapes containing nicotine may experience cravings and urges to smoke, difficulty sleeping, and the feeling of anxiety and sadness, which may make them believe they need nicotine to relieve these feelings. These behaviors, among others, are a part of nicotine addiction.

The good news is that studies show that most middle and high school students who vape want to quit. Becoming more aware of the risks of vaping will allow for educated conversations with youth and help ensure that all youth can live healthy, tobacco-free lives.

Here are a few ways you can protect your youth and promote rejection of vaping during back to school season.

• Educate yourself on the subject, and become a credible source of information. Visit CDC.gov/Vaping for important information on youth vaping.
• Create a safe space for discussion and start the conversation on vaping. Remember to be patient, listen, and avoid criticism. Keep the conversation open and be willing to be flexible.
• Answer their questions and be prepared. Kids may have questions about vaping, visit CDC.gov/tobacco for ideas on how to give educated and meaningful answers

Get Help Today

If you are interested in quitting, or someone you know needs help quitting, help is available:

• Visit the New York State Smokers’ Quitline for quit-smoking and quit-vaping programs, or call 866-NY-QUITS (866-697-8487), to apply for a free starter kit of nicotine medications and to talk to a quit coach.
• Talk to your healthcare provider about medications and counseling to help you manage cravings. Most health insurance plans, including Medicaid, cover services to help you quit.

For more information about GO Health Programs and services, visit GOHealthNY.org or contact your local health department at:

• Orleans County: (585) 589-3278
• Genesee County: (585) 344-2580 ext. 5555

Follow GO Health on Facebook, Instagram and X at GOHealthNY.

MEDINA – Orleans Community Health/Medina Memorial Hospital has announced that its subacute rehab program is now officially listed within the MVP Healthcare network.

Subacute rehab/TCU offers a special caring environment for patients who no longer require all the resources of an acute care hospital, but who are still in need of special care before going home.

This agreement with MVP represents a significant advancement in efforts to provide comprehensive and accessible healthcare services in the community, hospital officials said.

“The MVP Healthcare news is great for the community, as it opens the door for more individuals looking for subacute rehab care to receive it close to home,” said Scott Robinson, director of Marketing, Communications and Outreach at OCH.

“Our Transitional Care Unit (TCU) offers specialized subacute rehabilitation services designed for patients who need different therapies and medical oversight following a hospital stay,” said Amanda Luckman, Admissions/Marketing Assistant for OCH. “It is geared towards individuals requiring additional support to regain their quality of life after a major illness or surgery.”

The inclusion of TCU in the MVP Healthcare network marks the culmination of a dedicated effort by OCH. This acceptance is particularly significant as MVP Healthcare is a major carrier serving many in the Medina area. This inclusion is another step being taken by the hospital to best serve the community.

“We are thrilled to expand our services within the MVP Healthcare network,” said Marc Shurtz, CEO of Orleans Community Health. “This development ensures that more of our community members will have access to the care and recovery services they need, right here at home.”

MEDINA – Orleans Community Health Foundation has announced the appointment of three new members to its board of directors.

They are Matt Backlas, Barbara Outten and Jennifer Buondonno. Backlas is a web developer with Websystems. Outten is owner of Maple Ridge Storage and Buondonno is assistant branch manager of Tompkins Community Bank.

All bring a set of skills that will help to future the foundation’s efforts to strengthen health services to the community, said Scott Robinson, director of marketing, communication and outreach at Orleans Community Health.

“I am very happy to welcome our new board members,” said Jeanne Crane, board president. “New members bring new ideas and new energy.”

Executive director Megan Johnson added they are thrilled to welcome the three to the Orleans Community Health Foundation board.

“Their diverse expertise, community involvement and passion for our mission will be invaluable in fundraising to advance the care and services provided by Orleans Community Health,” Johnson said.

The Orleans Community Health Foundation looks forward to the contributions of its new board members and their role in supporting the Foundation’s mission to enhance community health and well-being.

The new members join Crane, Foundation vice president Gloria Brent, treasurer Clark Godshall, secretary Pam Canham, governing board chair Shannon Blount, OCH president/CEO Marc Shurtz, Matthew Kennedy, Nicole Goyette and Scott Robinson.