By Ginny Kropf, correspondent Posted 26 August 2024 at 12:45 pm
MEDINA – Orleans Community Health has announced expansion of its MRI services at Medina Memorial Hospital, beginning Sept. 3.
Scheduling an MRI locally has been challenging in the past, according to Scott Robinson, director of Marketing, Communication and Outreach.
“The expansion of MRI services cannot be overstated,” said Erica Chutko, director of radiology and cardiac services at Orleans Community Health. “We can perform an MRI on the brain, spine, chest, abdomen, pelvis and extremities. These tests can help detect potential health concerns, such as strokes, tumors, Multiple Sclerosis and much more.
MRI services returned to Medina Memorial Hospital in the fall of 2022, with testing available one day a week. The increased demand for the service is a driver in the expansion to a second day, according to Robinson. Beginning Sept. 3, MRIs can now be scheduled from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Tuesdays and Wednesdays.
“This expansion is all about our desire and goal to bring services to the community,” Robinson said. “Getting an MRI in a timely manner is difficult in many places right now. We’re hoping to help alleviate that with this move.”
An MRI is a non-invasive imaging exam that does not include any radiation. To schedule an appointment, patients will need a referral from their doctor. In addition, some insurances require prior authorization. Appointments can then be scheduled with the radiology department by calling (585) 798-8054.
By Ginny Kropf, correspondent Posted 19 August 2024 at 9:28 am
Event includes information and entertainment, while remembering those lost to cancer
LYNDONVILLE – Orleans Community Health has announced it is finalizing plans for its annual For Women Only on Oct. 3 at White Birch.
For Women Only was a yearly event for many years, returning in 2023 after a several year hiatus due to Covid-19, said Scott Robinson, director of Marketing, Communication and Outreach at Orleans Community Health.
In addition to raising funds, the event also provides educational information and entertainment to attendees, honors cancer survivors and remembers those lost to cancer.
“We’ve all known someone who has had their lives affected by cancer,” Robinson said. “FWO allows us to bring these individuals together for an evening of strength through numbers. Everyone in the room has a story to tell, and we’re lucky enough to hear many of them.”
Tickets are $30 and anyone wishing to purchase them or be a sponsor can call Lori Condo at (585) 798-8422 or click here for ticket information.
“The event will once again kick off breast cancer awareness month,” Robinson said. “While there is a traditional focus on that, we want to recognize those who have battled any form of the disease. There are plenty of individuals to honor, as well. In addition to basket raffles and other returning highlights, we’re continuing with last year’s opportunity to have loved ones included in a slide show that honors those we’ve lost, current fighters and survivors.”
Governor Kathy Hochul today announced that New York State has paid over $2 billion in bonuses to more than 800,000 health care workers statewide through the Health Care Worker Bonus Program. The program was launched by Governor Hochul in 2022 and provided bonuses of up to $3,000 for eligible health care workers across New York.
“Health care workers deliver for New Yorkers every day – and that’s why we’re delivering for them,” Governor Hochul said. “Our powerful investments are putting money back in workers’ pockets and helping to grow our health care workforce to provide the highest quality care for New Yorkers.”
New York’s Health Care Worker Bonus Program issued payments to workers who provide hands-on and patient-facing health care services. Workers receiving payments through this program must have an annualized base salary (excluding any bonuses or overtime pay) of $125,000 or less and can be full-time or part-time.
Bonuses payments were determined by specific “vesting periods,” or the number of hours worked during a consecutive six-month period between October 1, 2021, through March 31, 2024. Qualified employees received up to a maximum of $3,000 in total bonus payments over two vesting periods.
By putting more money in the pockets of working New Yorkers, Governor Hochul is continuing her ongoing efforts to address the cost of living – including recent announcements of supplemental child tax credit payments and increased access to child care assistance for working families.
New York State Health Commissioner Dr. James McDonald said, “Health care workers are the backbone of our health care infrastructure, and they are the frontline workers who go above and beyond to provide hands-on care and medical services. Through Gov. Hochul’s Health Care Worker Bonus Program we acknowledge our health care workers’ unwavering dedication to the health and wellbeing of New Yorkers.”
By Ginny Kropf, correspondent Posted 12 August 2024 at 10:54 am
MEDINA – Orleans Community Health has announced its upcoming Resource Fair/Open House at Medina Memorial Hospital.
Scheduled from 4 to 7 p.m. Sept. 12, the event is a significant expansion of the Wellness Fair held in September 2022, offering a wider range of services, activities and opportunities for community engagement, according to Scott Robinson, director of Marketing, Communication and Outreach.
This year’s event will again feature the popular opportunity to schedule procedures with the Imaging/Radiology and Laboratory departments. In addition, Orleans Community Health will introduce new offerings, including a Bumps and Bruises Clinic hosted by the OCH Surgery Clinic, guided tours of the hospital, assistance with signing up for patient portal and a host of other significant and engaging activities, Robinson said.
Procedures by the Imaging/Radiology and Laboratory departments can be scheduled online by clicking here.
Tests with Imaging/Radiology are $10 each. They include US aorta screening (looking for aneurysms of the main vessel), US carotid screening (looking for occlusions which can lead to stroke) and ABI (arterial) screening (looks for peripheral vascular disease).
Tests with the Laboratory are $10 each or all three for $25. They include hemoglobin A1c, PSA (prostate specific antigen) and the TSH (thyroid stimulating hormone).
Robinson emphasized the importance of the event, saying, “This is an opportunity to open our doors wide to the community and invite them in to see everything that is offered. Especially for individuals who haven’t needed medical services recently, the guided tours are a great opportunity to see the advancements being made.”
In addition to the many resources provided by Orleans Community Health, local organizations that serve the community’s needs are invited to participate by setting informational tables throughout the hospital.
“We’re welcoming those organizations to also attend and set up information tables throughout our halls,” Robinson said.
Provided officials: Several local elected officials joined Oak Orchard Health leaders on Thursday in celebrating the opening of the expanded behavioral health program in Albion.
Press Release, Oak Orchard Health
ALBION – It’s official. The Behavioral Health Program for Children and Adolescents is growing at the Oak Orchard Health Wellness Center in Albion and the Brockport Health Center.
Oak Orchard has always treated children (as well as adults) but there has been a growing need for a counseling specialty for young kids ages 2-21. With that in mind, Oak Orchard Health hired additional therapists with pediatric expertise and a psychiatric nurse practitioner.
Dr. Michael Scharf (left), Psychiatrist-in-Chief at the University of Rochester Medical Center, joins Dr. James Goetz, retired as former Chief of Pediatrics at Oak Orchard Health.
“We are thrilled to utilize the Wellness Center to enhance the lives of children and their families,” said Karen Kinter, CEO of Oak Orchard Health. “This ribbon-cutting ceremony symbolizes the expansion of our program and the community’s needs. We eagerly anticipate helping many children here and at all our health centers.”
This program started with a seed of an idea from Dr. James Goetz, retired as former chief of pediatrics at Oak Orchard Health after 45 years, said Robin Govanlu, Chief of Behavioral Health at OOH.
“Of course, OOH could not have done it alone,” Govanlu said. “We have served as a lead agency for many years on the Western Monroe County Child and Adolescent Behavioral Health Coalition, which includes important community partners such as The University of Rochester Strong Pediatric Comprehensive Psychiatric Emergency Program, Rochester Regional Health, SUNY Brockport, and the Brockport Central School District. Thank you to everyone who made this program a reality.”
Dr. Michael Scharf, Psychiatrist-in-Chief at URMC Golisano Children’s Hospital and Chief of the Division of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, is a key partner with this coalition.
“I met Dr. Goetz many years ago when I was still a trainee at the University of Rochester Medical Center,” Scharf said. “He sought out behavioral health services and training to serve the children in this region. This was before the pandemic, and it has continued to get worse. Back then not a single child psychiatrist was available from the site of Rochester General Hospital to Batavia. This group came together to solve this problem and to be centered in ‘community.’ There can be no health without mental health. You can’t support children’s health without supporting families. You can’t support families without supporting the community. And that’s what Oak Orchard Health is here to do.”
The ribbon cutting was attended by many local and state leaders. Assemblyman Steve Hawley was present along with JW Cook from Governor Hochul’s office, Bernard Alexander represented Senator Charles Schumer, Congressman Joe Morelle sent a proclamation, Skip Draper represented NY State Senator Robert Ortt. Lynne Johnson, Chairwoman of the Orleans County Legislature, and Marie Mongeon, VP Police for CHCANYS, also were at the event. Many spoke of the importance of bringing behavioral health services to the children in the region.
For more information or to make an appointment contact Oak Orchard Health at (585) 589-5613. or visit our website at www.OakOrchardHealth.org.
This map shows where oral rabies vaccine baits will be distributed to try to stop the spread of racoon rabies.
Press Release, Genesee & Orleans County Health Departments
Depending on the weather, aerial and hand distribution of oral rabies vaccine baits will take place in Western New York from Aug. 12 to Aug. 17.
Areas of New York State are once again taking part in a nationally coordinated effort to halt the spread of raccoon rabies in 16 states. Ongoing field evaluation of oral rabies vaccine (ORV) called ONRAB will occur in Cattaraugus, Chautauqua, Clinton, Erie, Essex, Genesee, Jefferson, Lewis, Niagara, Oneida, Onondaga, Orleans, Oswego, St. Lawrence, and Wyoming counties. These sites were selected in part because of ongoing collaborations with Quebec and Ontario, Canada in the fight against rabies to protect human and animal health and reduce significant cost associated with living with rabies across broad geographic areas.
“Rabies is a serious public health concern because if left untreated it is generally fatal. Costs associated with detection, prevention and control of rabies conservatively exceed $500 million annually. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, greater than 90 percent of reported rabies cases in the United States are in wildlife,” stated Paul Pettit, Public Health Director of the Genesee and Orleans County Health Departments (GO Health).
The efforts are focused on controlling raccoon rabies, which continues to account for most of the reported wildlife rabies cases in the United States. Raccoon rabies occurs in all states east of the established ORV zone that extends from Maine to northeastern Ohio to central Alabama. Continued access to oral vaccine and bait options that are effective in all target wildlife species remains critical to long-term success.
The ONRAB bait consists of a polyvinyl chloride (PVC) blister pack, containing the vaccine.
To make the baits attractive, the blister packs are coated with a sweet attractant that includes vegetable-based fats, wax, icing sugar, vegetable oil, artificial marshmallow flavor, and dark-green food-grade dye.
While humans and pets cannot contract rabies from the bait, those who come across the bait directly should leave it undisturbed. Most bait packets are consumed within four days, and nearly all of the bait will be gone within a week.
Please do not attempt to remove a bait from your dog’s mouth.The bait will not harm the dog and could lead to vaccine exposure.
Should contact with baits occur, immediately rinse the contact area with warm water and soap and contact your local health department at 585-344-2580 ext. 5555 for Genesee County or 585-589-3278 for Orleans County.
If you have additional questions related to the field evaluation in New York, please contact the Wildlife Services office in Rensselaer, NY at (518) 477- 4837.
By Ginny Kropf, correspondent Posted 3 August 2024 at 9:05 am
ALBION – Orleans Community Health has announced a special event at the Albion Healthcare Center to support students of the Albion Central School District.
Between now and Aug. 17 the community is invited to join the Albion Healthcare Center in gathering essential school supplies for the upcoming school year.
The hospital and Albion Healthcare Center realize school supplies can often be costly expenditures, especially with all the other costs for going back to school.
“We’re hoping our team’s effort is able to help some families, even if just a little,” said Scott
Robinson, director of Marketing, Communications and Outreach at Orleans Community Health.
Members of the community are encouraged to donate backpacks, folders, pens, pencils, colored pencils and notebooks and drop them off at the Albion Healthcare Center.
“Your generous contributions will help ensure that students in the Albion School District start their school year prepared to learn,” Robinson said.
On Aug. 17, the public and parents are invited to visit the Albion Healthcare Center between noon and 2 p.m., when some supplies will be distributed and tours given of the facility, offering an opportunity to meet with members of the Albion team. Items not distributed during the event will be provided to the Albion Central School District to be distributed as they see fit, ensuring that every donation finds its way to a student in need.
National Health Center Week (August 4-10) is a time when we celebrate, and increase awareness of, America’s 1,400 Community Health Centers (CHCs) that serve 31.5 million patients annually across nearly 15,000 communities. Oak Orchard Health (OOH) is a Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC) and has nine health centers in the Genesee, Monroe, Orleans, Steuben, and Wyoming Counties. We continue to grown over the years, in 2019 we served 23,399 patients and have grown to over 31,602 in 2023. We truly value the trust our patients have in our health center.
Impact of Oak Orchard Health in Our Community
Beyond offering essential medical, dental, and behavioral health services to all, regardless of insurance status, OOH significantly contributes to our local economy. In 2022 alone, OOH injected $67,765,000 into the community and fostered the creation of 520 local jobs. Moreover, the center’s employees, by spending their earnings locally, further amplify this positive impact. It’s a mutually beneficial arrangement for our community!
What Our Patients Say
We greatly value feedback from our patients, as it helps us better understand their needs and enhance the care we provide. A heartfelt thank you to all our patients who take the time to complete our surveys.
Here are a few heartwarming comments from our incredible patients:
“Doctors are always kind and attentive, truly listening to what you have to say.”
“Oak Orchard Health’s staff is exceptional, going above and beyond to assist their patients. I am immensely grateful for them!”
“The office staff is friendly, and my doctor explains things thoroughly. I’ve been a loyal patient here for a long time.”
“Our local, fully staffed medical facility delivers excellent service with top-quality medical equipment. Without funding, small communities would lack essential services.”
Thank you for being part of our Oak Orchard Health community.
National Health Center Week: Powering Communities Through Caring Connections
At Oak Orchard Health we’ll be celebrating National Health Center Week (NHCW) in a variety of ways from August 4-10.
Tuesday, August 6th is Agricultural Worker Health Day. Our roots run deep in the agricultural community. Oak Orchard started by caring for farmworkers. During NHCW we will reach out to our patients and deliver items that will help keep farmworkers safe while they work to put food on our tables. We’ll be visiting farmworkers this day and giving out helpful items such as first aid kits, sunscreen, etc.
On Thursday, August 8th at 2 p.m., join us for a Ribbon Cutting at the Albion Wellness Center. We’re celebrating the expansion of our Behavioral Health program for children and adolescents. Dr. Goetz, who dedicated over 45 years as a pediatrician at Oak Orchard, will be in attendance, along with Assemblyman Steve Hawley and many community leaders.
Dr. Goetz played a pivotal role as an early advocate for this program. Collaborating with Oak Orchard’s Robin Govanlu (Chief of Behavioral Health), Dr. Danielle Mead (Chief Medical Officer), and the Western Monroe County Child and Adolescent Behavioral Health Coalition, they developed this vital initiative. Recognizing the increased need for children’s behavioral health services post-pandemic, we’re committed to swiftly connecting our young patients to essential mental health care.
As part of this commitment, Oak Orchard Health will expand child and adolescent behavioral health services at both the Brockport Health Center and the Albion Wellness Center
Saturday, August 10th at the Brockport Arts Festival we’ll be highlighting Health Center Week’s Children’s Wellness Day. We’ll have the Teddy Bear Clinic, games, and giveaways available for the youngsters who stop by with their parents and guardians. We’ll also have the Mobile Medical Unit there which goes to community organizations and provides medical and mental health services. Stop by to learn more about our services for children.
We take pride in being an integral part of the community health network. This affiliation empowers us to deliver top-quality care and essential services, addressing barriers that may otherwise prevent individuals from accessing medical, dental, and behavioral health services. To schedule an appointment or learn more, please reach out to us at (585) 589-5613.
Join us for the Ribbon Cutting Ceremony at the Albion Wellness Center on August 8th at 2 p.m.
By Ginny Kropf, correspondent Posted 29 July 2024 at 3:26 pm
MEDINA – Orleans Community Health, in collaboration with the Orleans County YMCA and Medina Area Partnership has announced the rescheduling of a Bicycle Helmet and Health Event, which was canceled for July 10 due to weather.
The new date for the event at the Orleans County YMCA is Aug. 2, from noon to 2 p.m.
The event is designed to promote cycling safety and overall health and wellness in the community, according to Scott Robinson, director of Marketing, Communications and Outreach at Orleans Community Health.
“We invite all community members, whether or not they already have a helmet, to join us for an afternoon of fun, learning and community engagement,” Robinson said.
Event highlights include helmet donations, collected throughout late June and early July; and health and wellness information, provided to all attendees and offering insights into maintaining a healthy lifestyle.
“We’re thrilled this event is still able to happen, after the weather had other plans for in July,” Robinson said. “This event is a wonderful opportunity for families to learn more about cycling safety and health in a fun, interactive environment. If anyone else wants to participate or has information to share, just let us know.”
“Ensuring the safety of our children is a top priority for the YMCA,” said Jesse Cudzilo, executive director of the GLOW YMCA in Orleans County. “We are thrilled to have the community’s support in this important initiative, and together, we can make a difference in the lives of our kids.”
The Orleans County YMCA, Medina Area Partnership and Orleans Community Health state they are proud to work together to bring this event to their community. It is their belief, through collaboration, they can enhance the health and safety of residents.
WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand held a virtual press conference to announce the Capping Prescription Costs Act, legislation that would cap the annual out-of-pocket cost of prescription drugs at $2,000 for individuals and $4,000 for families with private insurance.
The legislation builds on transformational drug pricing reforms included in the Inflation Reduction Act of 2022, which capped the price of insulin at $35 a month and out-of-pocket drug costs at $2,000 a year for Medicare Part D beneficiaries.
“No one should have to risk their health by skipping refills or rationing life-saving medication because they can’t afford the cost of their prescriptions,” said Senator Gillibrand.
Senators Bob Casey (D-PA), Raphael Warnock (D-GA), Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), John Fetterman (D-PA), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), Martin Heinrich (D-NM), Tammy Baldwin (D-WI), Peter Welch (D-VT), and Mazie Hirono (D-HI) cosponsor this bill. Representative Kathy Manning (D-NC) leads companion legislation in the House.
Throughout her time in Congress, Gillibrand has fought to lower the cost of prescription drugs. In 2022, she helped pass the Inflation Reduction Act, which capped Medicare patients’ out-of-pocket prescription drug costs at $2,000 per year; empowered Medicare to negotiate prescription drug prices; and regulated price increases by drug companies.
She is an original cosponsor of the Medicare for All Act, which would provide every American with prescription drug coverage. Last year, she joined a bipartisan push to lower out-of-pocket costs for prescription drugs by limiting the use of harmful “copay accumulators,” which prevent copay assistance from counting toward a patient’s deductible or out-of-pocket maximum and make it harder for patients to afford their medications.
GO Health offers advice for people who encounter bats in their homes
Press Release, Genesee and Orleans County Health Departments
During the summer months, the Genesee and Orleans County Health Departments (GO Health) typically see an increase in reports from residents who have encountered bats.
Bats can occasionally find their way into houses, particularly in older homes that are not properly sealed. This most often occurs during the summer nights.
“If you find a bat in your home, safely capture it and immediately contact the health department,” advised Darren Brodie, Environmental Health Director for GO Health. “We can assess whether there was potential exposure and if the bat needs to be tested. If you cannot capture the bat, call the health department for guidance on the next steps to take.”
In some situations, it is possible that a bat bite could go undetected. For example, if you awaken and find a bat in your room, if you see a bat in the room of an unattended child, or see a bat near someone that is under the influence, it is important to seek medical advice and have the bat tested.
To safely capture a bat:
Turn on room lights and close all the windows.
Close the room and closet doors.
Wait for the bat to land.
While wearing thick leather-like gloves, place a coffee can, pail or similar container over the bat (Never handle a bat with your bare hands).
Slide a piece of cardboard under the container to trap the bat.
Firmly hold the cardboard in place against the top of the container, turn it right side up and tape the cardboard tightly to the container.
If you do not feel comfortable capturing the bat or cannot do it safely, contact your respective health department during regular business hours.
If it is after regular business hours, contact your local county dispatch. In Orleans County, call (585) 589-5527. In Genesee County, call (585) 343-5000.
Other tips to prevent rabies include:
Love your own, leave the rest alone. Do not pick up, touch, or feed wild or stray animals (raccoons, foxes, bats, stray cats, stray dogs, etc.). Wild or stray animals, including their babies, can have rabies.
Keep rabies vaccinations current for all dogs, cats, and ferrets. This is important not only to keep your pets from getting rabies, but also to provide a barrier of protection for you and your family if your pet is bitten by a rabid wild or stray animal.
Obey leash laws. Keep your dog fenced in or on a leash when outside of your home and in public areas. Avoid allowing your dog to approach unfamiliar dogs, people, or wildlife.
Residents are encouraged to take note of our upcoming drive-thru rabies vaccination clinics for dogs, cats, and ferrets in Genesee and Orleans Counties that are offered at no charge.
Orleans County Rabies Clinics at the Orleans County Fairgrounds (12690 State Route 31, Albion, NY 14411)
Saturday, Aug. 10, from 9 to 11:30 a.m.
Saturday, Oct. 19, from 9 to 11:30 a.m.
Genesee County Rabies Clinics at the Genesee County Fairgrounds (5056 East Main Street, Batavia, NY 14020)
Thursday, Aug. 8, from 4 to 7 p.m.
Thursday, Oct. 10, from 4 to 6 p.m.
For more information on GO Health’s programs and services, visit GOHealthNY.org.
You can also contact your respective health department:
Press Release, Genesee and Orleans County Health Departments
ALBION – The Genesee and Orleans County Health Departments (GO Health) will be holding their Local Early Intervention Coordinating Council (LEICC) Quarterly Meeting.
The meeting is scheduled for Wednesday, July 17, from 3:30 to 5 p.m. at the Orleans County Health Department (14016 State Route 31, Suite 101, Albion, NY 14411). Refreshments will be provided.
The LEICC is a supportive group made up of county officials, early intervention providers, childcare providers, parents of children with disabilities and other community members.
The goal of the LEICC is to afford the opportunity for parents and other members to voice their thoughts and concerns on the strengths and weaknesses of the Genesee and Orleans County Early Intervention Program and to work together to improve the program.
The Genesee and Orleans County Health Departments are encouraging parents to attend and to offer input as to how we can best meet the needs of all infants and toddlers in our local communities.
For Zoom connection information or for more information on the meeting, please contact Deborah Krenzer-Lewter, Director of Children with Special Needs, at 585-344-2580 ext. 5572 or 585-589-2777.
‘Every first responder knows that immediate intervention is crucial’
Press Release, Orleans County Emergency Management Office
ALBION – In response to the escalating opioid crisis gripping our nation, the Medina Fire Department has joined with Genesee and Orleans County Health Departments (GO Health), Orleans County Mental Health and Orleans County Emergency Management in their effort to launch the “Naloxone Leave Behind Program” to equip our residents with the lifesaving tools necessary to intervene during opioid-related emergencies.
The Naloxone Leave Behind Program aims to raise awareness of the overdose crisis and to increase access to naloxone. Naloxone, often referred to by its brand name “Narcan”, is a life-saving medication that can quickly restore the breathing of a person experiencing an opioid overdose.
“Enhancing access to care and treatment through efforts like the Leave Behind Kit program is crucial to communities, especially for rural communities,” said Danielle Figura, LCSW-R, Director of Orleans County Mental Health and Director of Community Services for Orleans County. “The kits will also include additional information on available resources for those experiencing mental illness or emotional distress, because we know that we need to promote an individual’s overall well-being.”
The New York State Department of Health initiated the Naloxone Leave Behind Program early in 2023 (expanding on their 2006 Overdose Prevention Program), and it has since been adopted in many regions throughout the state. The Village of Medina Fire Department is the pilot EMS agency for the program, made possible with opioid settlement funding through Orleans County Mental Health.
“The opioid epidemic has forever changed our small town and village life, not just as firefighters and EMS providers but as members of this community,” said Medina Fire Department Lt. Steve Cooley, who played a critical role in bringing this program into Orleans County.
After a brief trial period, the program will eventually be offered to all fire/EMS agencies within the county to voluntarily participate in. Mobile Crisis Teams operating within the county and Orleans County Probation will also be participating in the program.
“Every first responder knows that immediate intervention is crucial,” said Justin Niederhofer, Director of Emergency Management in the county. “In our rural community, and with the national EMS crisis, friends and family are often the first to recognize the signs of an overdose or to find the victim. The Naloxone Leave Behind Program essentially puts the lifesaving tools in the hands of those first on-scene.”
GO Health has identified a trend of elevated cocaine use locally that is causing fatal fentanyl overdoses.
“Through wastewater analysis, we have found that cocaine consumption is very high throughout Genesee and Orleans counties compared to other areas nationally,” stated Paul Pettit, Public Health Director for GO Health. “When cocaine is contaminated with fentanyl, it is causing preventable overdoses and overdose deaths. Many people who use street drugs like cocaine and counterfeit pills are unaware that what they are taking may contain a lethal dose of fentanyl. This is an example why the naloxone leave behind program is crucial for saving lives.”
Following an opioid related emergency, a leave behind kit will be offered to the family, friends or bystanders present at the incident. Each naloxone kit contains naloxone intra-nasal spray, 4mg/0.1ml (4 doses), a CPR face shield, signs of an overdose information card, emergency use instructions and additional information for those seeking further help. Trained personnel will provide training to those receiving leave behind kits.
“This program goes a long way to raise awareness, reduce the stigma surrounding opioid use disorders, and has the potential to save lives,” Niederhofer said. “These other departments and organizations have worked hard to get this program off the ground. We are happy to have been asked to join this effort going forward!”
GO Health, Village of Medina Fire Department, Orleans County Mental Health, and Orleans County Emergency Management are committed to continuing efforts to address the opioid crisis and ensure the well-being of all residents.
“This is a true example of collaboration, partnership, and maximizing the roles of our agencies working together, looking to achieve the same goal, by saving lives and reducing the number of opioid related overdoses and overdose related deaths in the Orleans County community,” Figura said.
By Drs. Kelsey Izzo and Sarah Smith, Pediatricians, Oak Orchard Health
In upstate New York, we wait for months for beautiful summer weather. It’s finally here but with the sunshine comes new tips for families to stay safe as they enjoy it this time around.
Sun safety
According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), just a few serious sunburns can increase your child’s risk of skin cancer later in life. Adults and children need protection from ultraviolet (UV) rays whenever they’re outdoors. How can you avoid this?
Hats and sunglasses with UV protection protect everyone from the sun.
Kids need to wear sunscreen. Wearing 30 -50 SPF sunscreen is important for kids and reapply every two hours. If they are wet or swimming, you should put it on again after they dry off. Children under 6 months should not be exposed to direct sunlight at all. They should always be protected from the sun.
On very hot days, be sure children are hydrated by offering them water as often as possible. The exception is with babies under 6 months. They do not need any additional water; breast milk or formula are enough for infants.
UV rays are the strongest and most harmful during midday.
Heat and babies. Summer is a great time to take your children out for a stroll but be mindful of how hot it’s getting inside the stroller, especially if you’re using a sunshade or blanket to shield the sun. Children can overheat. How can you tell? If they are turning red or are sweaty, those are two signs. Also, feel their chest to see if it’s hot. Shorter walks are preferred.
Babies do not need to wear too much clothing on hot days. The rule of thumb is one more layer that you.
During the hot summer, it’s never a good idea to leave kids in cars for any amount of time. And be sure to check the backseat so that no child is left behind.
Water Safety
Naturally, no child should be left alone in or near water. Drowning is a very real risk. According to the CDC, drowning is the #1 cause of death in children ages 1 to 4. Stay within arm’s reach of the child even if they’re wearing a flotation device.
Be sure to have a fence around your backyard pool with locked gates. Home doors should be locked so kids can’t get out to the pool area. Sensors on gates and doors offer added protection and safety. Remember, even small kiddy pools with 6 inches of water, are still a hazard. Kids still need to be supervised.
Bike riding
Bike helmets for kids of all ages are recommended. Of course, adults should also wear helmets.
Limit distractions. No bike rider should be listening to music, they should be aware of their surroundings and hear the vehicles and other bikes that may be in the area.
Adults can supervise the little ones. Young children shouldn’t be riding alone and certainly not riding on busy streets if there’s no shoulder or sidewalk.
Knee pads and elbow pads are a great safety idea.
Kids should let parents and caregivers know where they are going and when they’re expected back. Parents can check in with their kids periodically to be sure they are in a safe location.
Cell phones
Whether it’s summer or winter, less than two hours of screen time per day (ages 2 and up) is a best practice. The American Academy of Pediatrics discourages media use by children younger than 2 and recommends limiting older children’s screen time to no more than one or two hours a day.
Avoiding screen time before bedtime is another great tip. That includes a TV, laptop, tablet, or cell phone.
Staying healthy in the summer
We’re here if you need us. If you’re looking for a pediatrician for your children, give Oak Orchard Health a call at (585) 637-3905.
At some point, 30% of people living in the United States will get a hernia. While males are far more susceptible to them, women are hardly immune.
What is a hernia?
A hernia occurs when there is a gap in the abdominal wall, allowing internal abdominal contents to push through. While hernias can develop anywhere along the abdominal wall, they most commonly appear in specific areas such as the umbilical region (belly button), the groin, or through a prior surgical incision. Understanding the locations and symptoms of hernias is crucial for timely diagnosis and treatment.
One of the primary indicators that you might have a hernia is the presence of a noticeable bulge at the affected site, often accompanied by pain or discomfort during physical activity. Although hernias can cause significant discomfort, they are not always dangerous. However, there are situations where they can become serious. A hernia typically becomes an emergency when a piece of intestine gets trapped inside it, known as an “incarcerated hernia.” Symptoms of an incarcerated hernia include severe pain at the site, a sudden bulge that wasn’t previously noticeable, uncontrollable vomiting, a large, distended abdomen, and the inability to pass gas or have a bowel movement. These symptoms necessitate immediate medical attention, as an incarcerated hernia requires urgent surgical intervention.
Diagnosing a hernia can often be straightforward. Many hernias can be identified through a simple physical examination by a healthcare professional. However, imaging techniques like a CT scan are also commonly used to confirm the diagnosis, especially in complex cases.
The decision to undergo surgery for a hernia is a personal one and should be discussed with a surgeon or other qualified healthcare professional. Surgery is the best option for many individuals, but it may not be necessary for everyone. Some people may manage their hernia with lifestyle modifications and non-surgical treatments, depending on the severity and symptoms.
After a hernia repair, the concern about recurrence is valid. Unfortunately, no hernia repair method guarantees a 100% success rate. Recurrence rates vary, with some studies reporting as low as 0.5% and others as high as 10-12%, particularly in cases involving more complicated repairs. Despite these statistics, many people who undergo hernia surgery experience significant relief from symptoms and a marked improvement in their quality of life.
Understanding hernias, from their causes and symptoms to treatment options and potential risks, is essential for managing this common medical condition effectively. With timely diagnosis and appropriate care, most individuals can lead a comfortable and active life even after experiencing a hernia.
While hernias can sometimes occur due to factors beyond your control, there are steps you can take to reduce your risk of developing one:
Maintain a Healthy Weight: Being overweight or obese can increase your risk of developing a hernia. By maintaining a healthy weight through a balanced diet and regular exercise, you can reduce the strain on your abdominal muscles and lower your risk.
Practice Proper Lifting Technique: When lifting heavy objects, use your legs instead of your back, and avoid lifting objects that are too heavy for you to handle safely. If you need to lift something heavy, ask for assistance or use lifting equipment if available.
Avoid Straining During Bowel Movements: Straining during bowel movements can increase pressure in your abdomen and potentially contribute to the development of a hernia. Ensure you’re getting enough fiber in your diet to promote regular bowel movements and avoid straining.
Strengthen Your Core Muscles: Engaging in exercises that strengthen your core muscles, such as abdominal crunches, planks, and yoga, can help support your abdominal wall and reduce the risk of hernias.
Quit Smoking: Smoking can weaken tissues in the body, including those in the abdomen, which may increase the risk of hernias. Quitting smoking can improve your overall health and reduce your risk of hernias and other related conditions.
Treat Persistent Coughs: Chronic coughing can put strain on the abdominal muscles and increase the risk of developing a hernia. If you have a persistent cough, seek medical attention to identify and treat the underlying cause.
Address Chronic Constipation: Chronic constipation can lead to straining during bowel movements, which may contribute to the development of hernias. Stay hydrated, eat a high-fiber diet, and talk to your doctor about managing constipation effectively.
For those who have already experienced a hernia, understanding the signs of recurrence and seeking prompt medical advice is crucial. Regular check-ups with a provider can help monitor the condition and prevent complications.
Ultimately, awareness and proactive management are key to reducing the risk of hernias and ensuring prompt treatment if they do occur. By taking these preventive steps and staying informed, individuals can lead healthier, more comfortable lives, minimizing the impact of hernias on their overall well-being.
By Karen Kinter, CEO, Oak Orchard Health
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