Volume 17 of the Healthy Living Newsletter is here!

In This Issue:

• Community Memorial Begins Robotic Surgery Program
• CEO Update
• Brand New Emergency Department Opens
• New Physicians Start at CMH

 Read the PDF by clicking here!

Community Memorial Begins Robotic Surgery Program

A slippery day in January sent Cindy Eaton down, landing on her forearm, resulting in a bad break of her right arm, between the shoulder and elbow. After visiting a large ER in a neighboring city, a temporary cast was applied but terrible swelling and pain occurred, and Cindy was asked to wait a week to see an orthopedic specialist. She then decided to utilize the relationship between Community Memorial Hospital (CMH) and Community Memorial Center for Orthopedics. Already a primary care patient of CMH, Cindy was aware of the reputation and skill between the two organizations. Offered an immediate appointment, Cindy met the new physician with the group, Dr. Richelle Takemoto, and was scheduled for prompt outpatient surgery the next day at CMH.

“I go out of my way to come to CMH,” states Cindy, a resident of Richfield Springs. “From the moment I walked into the hospital, I was treated with respect and compassion. It was a very traumatic time for me as I was in a lot of pain upon arrival, but the entire team at CMH was wonderful throughout the entire process.”

The stellar reputation of Community Memorial Center for Orthopedics and CMH extends across New York, and Cindy was delighted to capitalize on the care and skill provided by both. Recently, the bar has been raised again as CMH has successfully launched its new Robotic Surgery Program through this partnership with the orthopedic group. With the VELYS™ Robotic-Assisted Solution, Dr. Takemoto performed the first robotic joint surgery with the CMH Surgical Team in mid-February.

After extensive training and certification from DePuy on the VELYS™ Robotic Solution, the innovative equipment arrived, ready to become an extension to the already-superior orthopedic care offered in Hamilton. Community Memorial is the second hospital in New York State to implement this new advanced technology. “The Robotic Surgery Program brings advanced technology into our operating room, providing patients with advanced technology and our same five-star caring service,” states Jeff Coakley, President and CEO. “We are proud to partner with Community Memorial Center for Orthopedics for the Robotic Surgery Program. With thousands of successful knee replacements provided by our skilled surgeons this gives patients one more reason to have their surgery at Community Memorial.”

Dr. Takemoto is excited to expand the program at Community Memorial. As the first female surgeon to use this innovative technology, she understands the benefits of robotics technology to patients. “The robotic technology provides me with greater precision on a cut. I can determine a measurement down the millimeter,” commented Takemoto. “This means increased stability and reduction in pain for patients, providing them with a better range of motion and preventing the unstable feeling some patients experience during everyday activities, such as bending and walking up and down stairs.”

Every knee is different, as is every patient that requires a knee replacement procedure. The VELYS™ Robotic-Assisted Solution works in tandem with the ATTUNE® Knee System, an innovative knee implant that works more closely with an individual patient’s anatomy. With these systems together, there is now an option for patients seeking the latest technology designed to provide digital precision in knee replacement.

The entire surgical process is improved, from start to finish. This equipment simplifies joint replacement surgery, and the true winner is the patient; optimal results, faster recovery times and fewer complications. With dozens of robotic surgeries performed to date, CMH leads the region in innovative knee surgery, with a goal of expanding the robotics surgery program even further, offering hip and spine services as well.

Consistently recognized by Healthgrades with the Joint Replacement Excellence Award, most recently in 2021 for superior clinical outcomes in knee and hip replacements, Community Memorial strives to be the area’s leading organization for orthopedic surgery. “Robotics is transforming the way physicians perform surgery,” adds Coakley.

“Community Memorial is bringing joint replacement surgery to the next level, offering patients our superior 5-star care with first-rate technology.”

When her primary care provider transitioned to CMH, Cindy didn’t hesitate to follow. “Marla Smith offers me impeccable routine healthcare in the Waterville office, and now I’ve also experienced the surgery department, nursing staff and more,” remarked Cindy. “Dr. Takemoto was an impeccable surgeon and I recommend Community Memorial to anyone looking for the best in care.”

To learn more about the Robotic Surgery Program at Community Memorial and the partnership with Community Memorial Center for Orthopedics, or to inquire about an appointment, visit CMH online at communitymemorial.org/services/orthopedics/ or call the Community Memorial Center for Orthopedics office at 315.824.1250.

CEO Update

Community Memorial has been providing high quality healthcare for the past 70 years and we continue to invest in our medical staff, clinicians, technology and facility to lead us to an even more successful future.

New medical providers have been welcomed to our team, along with a VP of Nursing. Dr. Kareem Hamad and Dr. Matthew McKay are both Hospitalists and come to CMH from larger facilities with years of experience providing patient care. Eric Engelbrecht and Michael Kiger are both Physician Assistants working in our Emergency Department, and a new Nurse Practitioner, Rebecca Dorn, joined the Cardiology Department. Heather Bernard DNP, RN, CIC, FAPIC has joined our CMH family to oversee nursing and clinical services. I look forward to working together with these new team members.

Our new Med/Surg Unit opened January 2021 and the ER in December 2021, to open and close the year with successful project completions. These updates to our facility also initiated the renovations to the exterior of the building. The dedicated Emergency Department entrance allows walk-in patients to enter the department without using the main entrance. Patients arriving by ambulance with the support of our EMS partners also have state-of-the-art entry to increase access to immediate care.

The Hospital’s Board of Directors and Administration are proud of our Surgical Department’s recent advancement, offering the most innovative program in joint replacement surgeries; robotic technology. The team collaborated with our partners at Community Memorial Center for Orthopedics to bring this to our operating rooms. As the second hospital in New York State to offer patients the VELYS RoboticAssisted technology, our Director of Robotic Surgery, Richelle Takemoto, MD, is the first female surgeon in the United States to use the VELYS robot.

Lastly, I would like to thank our employee team for their support and dedication to patient care and our community. The quality of care provided at CMH has again earned us a five-star rating in patient satisfaction by CMS, and the only facility in the state to do so. The CMH difference is our commitment to the community, our patients, and each other. I am proud of this team and our accomplishments.

As the calendar turns into the upcoming summer months, I invite you to stay connected with us via social media for progress on our capital project, along with organization updates. Thank you for choosing Community Memorial.

Brand New Emergency Department Opens

Community Memorial (CMH) is proud to announce that the renovation the Emergency Department has been completed and opened for patient care in late December 2021. The new Emergency Department (ED) at CMH in Hamilton has an expanded waiting room, private treatment spaces for patients, and enhanced safety features.

Patients needing emergent care can come to the new ED, located in the front of the hospital campus, through its own entrance. The expansion includes three additional rooms, increasing patient privacy and safety. The ED also has an added ambulance bay, and updated technology, including a centralized telemetry system to monitor patient cardiac status and security features that restrict entrance to the ED to those with permitted access.

As the pandemic continues to impact our community, access to safe, quality healthcare matters most. “The opening of the Emergency Department comes at an important time as we continue to serve the needs of residents in our community during the pandemic,” stated Jeffery Coakley, President and CEO of Community Memorial.

The continuous change in COVID, influenza and RSV cases are driving an increase in patient visits, and this expanded space allows for the care of patients more effectively and provides EMS and staff with the space and tools they need to deliver quality care to patients. With substantially lower wait times, prompt access to specialty services and seamless transition to tertiary facilities, the new ER at Community Memorial is the go-to for the community when emergent care is necessary.

“Providing vital care in personal, confidential rooms with increased space allows us to align our outstanding care with our facility,” stated Bernadette Casscles, RN, Director of Nursing Emergency Services. “The enhancements made to our Emergency Department reflect the 5-star awarded care we work to provide to our community every day.”

CMH has added a decontamination room with private access through the outdoor showers. This will allow patients, EMS personnel and staff to rinse off any potentially hazardous chemicals before entering the building. The decontamination room has an ante room to give staff the space they need to safely don and doff personal protective equipment and minimize the transfer of any hazardous waste or airborne diseases with an enhanced HVAC system. The opening of the Emergency Department wraps up Phase II of Community Memorial’s capital project, the largest transformational project since its inception in 1952. The $31m project will enhance the outdated facility, promoting patient access and navigation. Community Memorial opened a newly renovated Med/Surg Inpatient wing in January 2021, completing Phase I of the project. To learn more about the Emergency Department and more, please visit communitymemorial.org/services/emergency-services.

Welcome to the Team

Heather Bernard, DPN, RN, CIC, FAPIC, joined the Community Memorial Senior Leadership Team in February as the Vice President of Nursing and Clinical Services, filling the role of Diane Chase, RN, who entered retirement after 33 years at Community Memorial. Providing mentorship and guidance to nursing leaders and assigned patient care departments, Bernard is responsible for enhancing clinical outcomes, patient satisfaction and improving quality and patient safety. Previously serving as a Regional Infection Control Specialist in New York State with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Foundation, Bernard is a long-time Hamilton resident and actually started her career in nursing at CMH 25 years ago. “I am proud to be back at CMH, where my journey began and continue its outstanding reputation for patient care,” Bernard commented. “My career journey and experiences have shaped my transformational leadership style. I look forward to supporting the provision of high-quality, evidence-based healthcare to our community.”

New Physicians

The Community Memorial healthcare system is excited to welcome Kareem Hamad, MD, and Matthew McKay, MD, who both joined the organization’s Hospitalist Team.

Expanding the current team of CMH hospitalists compiled of Nathan Keever, DO; April Lamunion FNP; and Lynette Champagne, NP; Dr. Hamad and Dr. McKay will round out the group of inpatient physicians and nurse practitioners who work exclusively inside the hospital. These providers care for patients admitted to the organization, collaborating amongst other departments during patient admissions, post-surgical care and swing bed patients.

Hamad studied medicine at the Alexandria University Faculty of Medicine in Alexandria, Egypt, where he received his Bachelors of Internal Medicine and General Surgery, before studying General Surgery and Etymology at Trafford Hospital in Manchester, United Kingdom. He received his Boards in Family Medicine in 2013 and Fellowship of Anti-Aging and Regenerative Medicine in 2016. Dr. Hamad has been providing care to patients in Central New York since 2010. He brings experience in inpatient management, integrative medicine, wound care, minor surgeries and rapid response/code management. His experience adds to the high quality of care patients expect from CMH’s healthcare system.

McKay comes to Community Memorial after an extensive career as a local physician. Graduating from St. George’s University School of Medicine and completing his family medicine residency at Mountainside Hospital, McKay was a private practice primary care provider, and has served as a hospitalist in a neighboring facility since 2018 as well. An Oneida native, McKay served as the President and Vice President of a medical staff group and the Chairperson of the Department of Internal Medicine. “Dr. McKay and Dr. Hamad bring experience a wealth of knowledge from larger health systems that will benefit patients in Hamilton without having to travel to other hospitals,” noted Jeff Coakley, President and CEO. “We’re excited for the expansion of skill that these providers bring to our Hospitalist Team.”

Grateful Patient HONOR ROLL

Launched in November 2019, Community Memorial’s Grateful Patient Program has provided a seamless flow for patient stories and compliments received, recognizing employees for their commendable work. Patients and their families share the moments that had a remarkable impact on them during their time at Community Memorial and its five Family Health Centers. Employees are also eligible to recognize fellow peers for outstanding work.

“I knew that when I started feeling ill, it required medical attention – many other have to travel a far distance for care, and I’m so thankful to have the Emergency Department of CMH right here in town. Almost every job in the world has some component of customer service, and everyone I encountered at Community Memorial truly understood that, offering me compassionate care when I needed it most.” – BRITTANY, HAMILTON, NY

Volume 16 of the Healthy Living Newsletter is here!

In This Issue:

• CMH: Building Today. Tomorrow. Always.
• CEO Update
• Women’s Health at CMH
• Happy Retirement, Dr. Carlson!
• Department Spotlight: Administration
• November: Lung Cancer Awareness Month
• December: Influenza Vaccination & Hand Washing

 Read the PDF by clicking here!

Welcoming Our New Cardiologist

AVNEET SINGH, MD, FACC CARDIOLOGIST

Community Memorial continues to put the healthcare needs of our region at the forefront.

Community Memorial Announces New Cardiologist

The Community Memorial Hospital (CMH) healthcare system is excited to welcome a new provider to the team as Dr. Avneet Singh will join as the organization’s new Cardiologist.

Dr. Singh studied medicine at Maulana Azad Medical College and graduated with his Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery in New Delhi, India. Singh also completed education around internal medicine before completing his residency and fellowship in cardiology at SUNY Upstate Medical University. The previous Director of Echocardiography at Upstate, Dr. Singh received his certifications in both Cardiovascular Computed Tomography and Cardiovascular Disease. “Dr. Singh brings exceptional skill to our team, and his expertise will allow us to continue to provide high quality, patient-centered care throughout the Community Memorial network,” states Dr. Michael Walsh, Chief Medical Officer.

Dr. Singh comes to the CMH medical staff as longtime Cardiologist Dr. Raymond Carlson retires. Practicing in Hamilton since 2010, Dr. Carlson has built a strong reputation surrounding the cardiology care provided locally. “Dr. Carlson is certainly leaving a legacy behind as he enters retirement. Our medical staff appreciates his contributions beyond measure, as he’s been such a dynamic part of our team, and we’re eager to continue the quality of cardiac care to our patients with the addition of Dr. Singh,” adds Walsh.

Residing in Manlius. Dr. Singh enjoys playing tennis, cooking, hiking, practicing yoga, and spending time with family. “I look forward to being a part of a close- knit community of providers, and providing state-of- the-art, personalized cardiology care to patients,” adds Dr. Singh.

Dr. Singh holds professional memberships within the Fellowship of The American College of Cardiology, the National Board of Echocardiography, along with the American Heart Association and the American College of Physicians. He will be seeing patients out of the Hamilton Family Health Center location.

To learn more about the team of providers at Community Memorial or to make an appointment, visit: https://www.communitymemorial.org/family-health- centers/ or call at 315-824-4600.

New Nurse Practitioner Joins CMH Team

The Family Health Center Network of Community Memorial Hospital (CMH) has welcomed another primary care provider to the team; Cassandra Senif, NP, is now seeing patients out of the Morrisville office location. Graduating with her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Utica College, Senif continued to her

Cassandra Senif Nurse Practitioner

Master of Science in Nursing from SUNY Polytechnic Institute. Having worked in healthcare services for over a decade, Senif has experience in a range of patient care areas, from pediatrics and up. “Cassandra is a great addition to the Community Memorial medical staff team, covering a vast area of medical services in her clinical rotations and work history,” states Dr. Michael Walsh, Chief Medical Officer. “We enthusiastically welcome her and her skills, and are excited to watch her patient base grow as a CMH team member.”

Senif also holds certification in Emergency Nursing Pediatrics, along with the Pediatric Nursing Certification. “I’m excited to join such a great team of healthcare providers, and I look forward to welcoming patients in under my care,” states Senif. “Community Memorial is a stellar place to continue my career in healthcare.”

A resident of Hamilton, Senif looks forward to expanding her care to the community. “My area of interest as a Nurse Practitioner is treating the whole family; I have a significant background in pediatrics so I am comfortable treating both the child and the parents. I have completed my clinical training hours at CMH Hamilton and I am looking forward to continuing to learn from other providers and to build relationships both professionally with my peers and with my patients.” Senif enjoys running and hiking with her dogs and husband, as well as attending local college athletic events in her spare time.

To learn more about the team of providers at Community Memorial or to make an appointment, visit: https://www.communitymemorial.org/family-health- centers/ or call at 315-824-4600. All office locations are accepting new patients.

Community Memorial Hospital: Building Today. Tomorrow. Always.

Community Memorial Hospital (CMH) opened its doors to patients in 1952 with a small Emergency Department, Operating Room, and an Obstetrics Unit. In that era, the facility met the basic healthcare needs of the community. Nearly 70 years later, the organization has grown, added service lines and medical staff, and works to adapt to meet the continuously evolving scope of healthcare. Even after the Emergency Department was expanded slightly in the ’80s, as were the Operating Rooms – the facility has become outdated, inefficient, and aged gracefully. Now, approaching its 70th anniversary, Community Memorial is undergoing a transformational project, set to update and renovate over half the facility.

Years of extensive planning and preparation came to fruition as construction began in June of 2020, in the vacant former Skilled Nursing Wing. As Phase I was completed in January of 2021, the brand new wing of all private inpatient rooms opened, serving patients immediately, at the height of a COVID surge. Phase II began with limited impact on patient care, as the Emergency Department was moved to the back of the building, allowing for the new, expanded ER to be renovated. “It was vital to maintain access for patients for emergency care services,” remarked Jeff Coakley, President, and CEO. “Relocating the ER temporarily kept our construction on schedule, but more importantly, allowed a critical service to stay available for every patient that needed it.”

Phase II is nearing completion and will elevate the care CMH provides to the communities that depend on it. As
connecting patients to important services is a key part of the CMH future, the leadership team and governing board have been in continuous review of further enhancing the organization, aligning the timing of funding available with the current construction work. “Our facility required many updates, both infrastructure, and technology-related, to remain viable,” added Coakley. “Our project scope has expanded, and we’re excited to now have new upgrades including a new MRI machine, which will further enhance the patient care provided right here in Hamilton. This unit will replace our 14-year-old, refurbished machine, and provide higher-level medical imaging, in a more efficient manner.”

The capital project will also aid the organization in additional ways, including strengthening existing service lines with increased space and enhancing the environment of care as departments are more conveniently located, allowing for better patient workflow and more efficient patient care. Consolidating spaces while utilizing previously vacant spaces will also encourage the CMH scope of services to be broadened.

“Every detail of the largest transformational project in our history has been meticulously reviewed with the staff, who will be using the spaces each day as they care for patients,” added Coakley. “It was imperative that this entire process fits the needs of our patients, but also our employees and medical staff, as they’re an integral part of this project, delivering exceptional care.”

With a projected completion in early 2023, the organization will have new departments for Laboratory, Rehabilitation, Radiology – and more – to join the completed Med-Surg wing and Emergency Department. This $31.5m capital project will allow CMH to remain competitive as the market for healthcare providers is increasingly challenging. “We’re excited to further develop our recruitment capabilities, as this new facility will also allow for better retention of staff,” noted Coakley.

The immense impact this project will have on our patients is beyond measure, and the CMH team enthusiastically anticipates a strong future in this community. To learn more about how to support this project, including becoming a member of our giving clubs, please visit https://communitymemorial.org/foundation/capital-campaign/ or call the Foundation office at 315.824.7037.

CEO UPDATE

As 2021 comes to a close, I’d like to reflect on the tremendous work of the medical staff and every employee on the Community Memorial team as the COVID-19 pandemic continues to present challenges to “normal” life. It has been difficult for patients and families to navigate health services, which has escalated the anxiety and concern in our healthcare environments for patients and staff. Thank you to the patients and staff for their tolerance and compassion as our community works together to continue to support safe, high quality local health services.

Looking forward, Community Memorial is excited to be nearing the completion of our renovated and expanded Emergency Department. Welcoming entrances for ambulance and walk-in patients will be clearly marked and staff will be immediately available to assist community members with their medical emergency. Our Emergency Department providers and staff will provide your family a gateway to our own medical experts as well as the advanced services at other hospitals in our region.

We continue to renew critical health services including cardiology and primary care. In October, we welcomed A.V. Singh, M.D. as our new cardiologist and thanked Dr. Ray Carlson and his wife, Cyndi, for their many years of service in our community. You can read more about both of them in this issue of Healthy Living.

We are also continuing to improve access to our growing primary care service and welcome Cassandra Senif, NP, to our network of Family Health Centers. We are encouraging community members to establish with a primary care provider if you do not actively see a provider at this time. Anyone that may have missed a routine well-check with their provider over the past year is encouraged to call today and reschedule any missed appointments.

Community Memorial continues to monitor the local COVID infection rates while working with our community partners on vaccine distribution, education, and precautions. We invite everyone to do their part and contact their healthcare provider to resolve questions they may have about vaccines or testing to reduce the impact of the COVID-19 virus. Please check our website and social media for instant updates and remember – Community Memorial is here for you and your family when you need us.

Women’s Health at CMH

One thing is certain in all health issues – early detection is key, leading to more positive outcomes in the fight against a variety of illnesses. October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, focusing on educating and encouraging patients to seek preventative care and vital screenings.

The Community Memorial Hospital (CMH) network offers primary care in five office locations, with a team of medical providers available for women’s health services, from routine well-woman exams, birth control options through menopause care. “It’s especially important for women to maintain a consistent lifestyle surrounding their healthcare,” notes Dr. Michael Walsh, Chief Medical Officer at Community Memorial. “As the cornerstone of a family’s overall health, their positive well-being promotes improved health for children and families, but also – women can face unique health issues and it’s vital to have regular check-ups.”

Breast and ovarian cancer rank among the top most common health issues for women. Bringing awareness to these issues, along with mental health issues that may then coincide with a cancer diagnosis, is another reason why Community Memorial encourages appropriate medical screenings for patients. Offering 3D Mammography services and breast ultrasound care is just one part of the Community Memorial initiative for women’s well-being. “There is no ‘one size fits all’approach to women’s health care,” adds Dr. Walsh. “With a focus on the patient’s health entirety, our team of medical providers can advise women on gender-specific screenings, based on a number of factors. Age, medical history, and genetics all come into consideration.”

Unlike larger, urban hospital settings, patients at Community Memorial can access medical imaging appointments quickly. The streamlined approach from a Family Health Center location to the Radiology Department at CMH allows for a prompt appointment for those vital mammograms. And, as a Crouse Health partner, patients enjoy the ease of navigation should they need a breast specialist to consult or follow up. “With regular, routine scans, the chances of early detection are increased, resulting in more patient treatment options,” adds Dr. Walsh.

Community Memorial’s five Family Health Center locations (Hamilton, Cazenovia, Morrisville, Munnsville, and Waterville) are all accepting new patients, with an improved and more efficient process for patients to access care right away. “The entire team at Community Memorial wants to aide patients in any way throughout their healthcare journey,” adds Dr. Walsh.

To connect with your CMH provider, or if your family is looking to establish with a new primary care provider, call or visit our website. Come see why Community Memorial is leading the way through the new era of patient care. To learn more, visit https://communitymemorial.org/family-health-centers/ or call 315.824.4600.

Happy Retirement, Dr. Carlson!

Dr. Raymond Carlson is retiring after more than a decade of providing cardiology care for the Hamilton region and beyond. Dr. Carlson has been instrumental in cardiac care for patients admitted to the hospital, patients served in the office setting for consults and follow-up care, but also as a community contributor in the effort to educate and encourage patients to improve their heart health.
“The entire Community Memorial team sends our gratitude and well wishes to Dr. Carlson as he enters retirement,” states Jeff Coakley, President & CEO of Community Memorial. “His impact on cardio care locally has been truly impactful.”

Department Spotlight: Administration

Community Memorial has new additions to the Administration team – please join us in welcoming:

Michael Calogero – Vice President of Finance
Keara Connors – Executive Director of Community Relations
Shannon Ruane – Director of Physician Services

November is Lung Cancer Awareness Month

Lung cancer causes the most cancer deaths worldwide, accounting for 1.8 million new cases and 1.6 million deaths annually. In 1987, it surpassed breast cancer to become the leading cause of cancer deaths in women. Early detection and awareness can help save lives. Smoking is the most common cause of lung cancer. Are you looking for assistance in quitting smoking? The Community Memorial team is here to help.

During Lung Cancer Awareness Month, learn more about this deadly disease. For more information, including information on screenings you may need, talk to your CMH primary care provider.

National Handwashing Awareness Week is the first full week of December and serves to emphasize the significant role that hands play in the spread of infectious diseases. The aim is to teach the importance of handwashing, hand hygiene, and mindfulness to protect the health of individuals and communities. Through participating in this event, we can reduce the spread of infectious diseases to improve our health and prevent a seasonal epidemic in our communities.

As we head into flu season, remember to keep preventive health care at the top of your to-do list. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends the annual influenza vaccine for everyone six months of age and older.

During National Influenza Vaccination Week (December 6-12), get your annual flu vaccine through your CMH primary care provider.