The Community Memorial (CMH) Center for Orthopedics is excited to announce a renewed focus on hip fracture care, launching a new specialty program.

Dr. Richelle Takemoto, CMH board-certified orthopedic trauma surgeon, leads the initiative alongside Dr. Kamal Banga. This program offers patients a comprehensive approach to care for hip fractures. The full-service program navigates patients from fracture to function following a fall. Whether patients seek care through the Emergency Department or CMH’s Center for Orthopedics, they can expect to be seen expeditiously by one of our orthopedic surgeons. CMH’s Center for Orthopedics offers comprehensive orthopedic care, ensuring that both patients and referring providers that patients receive the best possible care.

Patients who suspect a hip fracture following a fall are encouraged to visit the Emergency Department in Hamilton, which offers low wait times and 24/7 orthopedic care from our team. Or, patients can visit the Center for Orthopedics during walk-in hours to be seen in the office.  Once a surgeon determines there is a fracture, the patient will be scheduled for surgery.  Following surgery, patients can choose to rehabilitate through the Swing Bed Program at Community Memorial, which serves as a bridge between the hospital and home for patients following a surgery or illness.

“Having a standardized geriatric hip fracture program reduces time to surgery and improves the functional outcomes of these patients,” noted Dr. Richelle Takemoto. “The orthopedic team at CMH designed this program to improve hip fracture care in our region.”

Hip fractures are common in elderly patients, underscoring the importance of optimal care. The American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons reports more than 300,000 hip fractures in the U.S. each year in individuals over age 65, with most injuries from common falls. “Reducing the injury to surgery time is standard of care for geriatric hip fractures,” added Dr. Banga. “This program will have a positive impact on good patient outcomes.”

Dr. Takemoto, Chief of Robotic Surgery, completed her fellowship training in orthopedic trauma. She specializes in comprehensive fracture care and total joint arthroplasty of the shoulder, knee and hip.

Dr. Banga is certified by the medical boards in the United States, Canada, and India, and holds board certification in sports medicine and orthopedics from the respective medical associations of these nations. Dr. Banga completed his fellowship in Orthopedic Surgery, Upper-Extremity, and Sports Medicine at McMaster University in Ontario, Canada. Additionally, he holds a fellowship in Orthopedic Sports Surgery from the University of Western Ontario, in Ontario, Canada.

With a focused initiative to improve access to quality primary and specialty care in the region, CMH has focused efforts to grow its provider team. The Community Memorial Center for Orthopedics is open within the Center for Specialties building at 160 Broad Street in Hamilton, on the hospital campus. Offering a walk-in clinic daily the practice grants patients ease and convenience, with same or next-day appointments following an Emergency Department visit. The Orthopedics team provides specialty care for knee, hip, and shoulder joints, along with spine and sports medicine treatment for injured athletes.

The Community Memorial Center for Orthopedics has expanded care into New Hartford each Wednesday, at 83 Genesee Street within the CNY Brain and Spine building, and to Cazenovia with Dr. Banga on Thursdays. The Hamilton office sees patients Monday through Friday, with walk-ins available each day. These expansions aim to improve access to specialized orthopedic care for residents throughout the region.

Community Memorial offers primary care in six locations (Hamilton, Cazenovia, Morrisville, Munnsville, Sherrill and Waterville) and warmly welcomes patients for all services, including specialty care. Regularly check the ‘News and Events’ section of the website for the latest updates as services continue to expand.

To learn more about any of the Community Memorial services, visit www.communitymemorial.org.

With recent cases of measles reported in Texas, New Mexico, and New York City, we encourage our patients and community members to know the facts, especially if you have recently or plan to travel to an area of outbreak.

Your first line of defense is to be sure you are vaccinated against measles, mumps and rubella (MMR).

Measles is a severe illness that can cause serious health complications, particularly in young children. Potential complications include pneumonia, encephalitis, miscarriage, preterm birth, hospitalization, and even death.

For more information please read the newest release from New York State’s Department of Health

To schedule a vaccine for your child, please call 315-824-6400.

Community Memorial (CMH) healthcare network is expanding the primary care team with the addition of a new physician as the organization continues to focus on patient needs.

Dr. Andrew Call, board-certified in Family Medicine, will join Community Memorial’s Family Health Center team, seeing patients in Cazenovia. Dr. Call completed his post-doctoral training at the University of Rochester and then later held the position of Chief Resident of the program, placed at the forefront of patient care. Call graduated from the Mount Sinai School of Medicine in New York City after obtaining his Bachelor of Science in Biology from Alfred University before advancing to the University of Rochester. With extensive experience in Family Medicine, Call has worked in hospital-based practices along with the private sector of patient care for decades in western New York.

“Dr. Call is a fantastic addition to our Cazenovia practice,” said Jeff Coakley, President and CEO of Community Memorial. “His commitment to high-quality care, exceptional patient satisfaction, and convenient services has made him a highly sought-after physician.”

Affiliated with the New York State Family Physicians group, Dr. Call has made significant contributions to the education of medical students as they work through their academic requirements. “Both my commitment to patient care and the enhancement of fellow peer providers has offered me the opportunity to gain insight to perspectives from all angles and allows personal connection and care for those I treat,” said Dr. Call.

Joining the Cazenovia office, Dr. Call will offer patients another access point into the Community Memorial network. Patients have direct access to ancillary services, including laboratory, radiology, and rehabilitation services. “My heart is in medical practice with a small-town feel, and Community Memorial offers that,” added Dr. Call. “My philosophy of care centers around being kind, creative and compassionate, and I look forward to engaging with my patients and building those relationships.”

Community Memorial offers primary care in five other locations as well (Hamilton, Morrisville, Munnsville, Sherrill and Waterville) and welcomes patients for all services, including specialty care. Regularly check the ‘News and Events’ section of the website for the latest updates as services continue to expand.

For more information about the Community Memorial providers and services, please visit www.communitymemorial.org.

The Community Memorial (CMH) healthcare network launches a new procedure option for patients with joint pain or injury.

Platelet-rich plasma injections, or PRP, is a treatment now offered at Community Memorial Center for Orthopedics. The outpatient procedure involves drawing blood from a patient and processing it with a machine called a centrifuge to separate the platelets out and then reinject the platelets into the patient at their site of pain or injury.

Offered by Dr. Kamal Banga, the PRP procedure can be used to treat a variety of conditions, including joint pain such as osteoarthritis, tennis and golfer elbow, and other sports injuries. “The PRP process allows the concentrated plasma to be reintroduced into the area of discomfort or injury, stimulating the healing process,” noted Dr. Banga. “At the Community Memorial Center for Orthopedics, I welcome patients to come in for a consult and see if they’re a candidate.”

Rich in growth factors, the injected platelets work to accelerate healing, as studies have shown that increased concentration may shorten healing time for injuries and decrease pain for patients. “This innovative treatment may provide help in muscle, tendon and ligament pain,” added Banga. “There is also some research that there may be relief in osteoarthritis with PRP injections by reducing inflammation.”

The platelets injected back into the patient’s site of issue attract the body’s stem cells to the area. This aids the body in recognizing the injury as a priority, decreasing the length of time to heal than the body could do on its own. The success rate depends on individual factors and the entire procedure process is usually done in under an hour. Patients can discuss details with Dr. Banga at the Community Memorial Center for Orthopedics,

“The ability to offer this modern treatment locally is an exciting feat for our team,” added Dr. Michael Walsh, Chief Medical Officer. “Dr. Banga continues to work to expand the care that patients receive in the CMH network, and we’re excited to lead the way in new services and treatment options. We encourage and welcome patients to call to learn more about PRP.”

With a focused initiative to improve access to quality primary care in the region, CMH has dedicated considerable efforts to bolster its provider team and support staff. This activity around orthopedic care has supported the network in several areas of growth.

The Community Memorial Center for Orthopedics is open within the Center for Specialties building at 160 Broad Street in Hamilton, on the main campus, and can be reached at 315.824.7040. With the Hospital directly next door, services are streamlined for patient efficiency and offers a walk-in clinic open each weekday from 8am to 3pm. The practice also grants patients ease and convenience, with quick appointments following an Emergency Department visit. The Orthopedics team provides specialty care for knee, hip, and shoulder joints, along with fracture trauma care and sports medicine treatment for injured athletes.

Recently, the Community Memorial Center for Orthopedics has expanded care into New Hartford each Wednesday, with a new office located at 83 Genesee Street within the CNY Brain and Spine building. This expansion aims to improve access to specialized orthopedic care for residents throughout the region.

Community Memorial Hospital (CMH) has received a renewal of its accreditation from The Joint Commission by demonstrating continuous compliance with its performance standards. The Gold Seal is a symbol of quality that reflects a healthcare organization’s commitment to providing safe and quality patient care.

Community Memorial underwent a rigorous, onsite review on Monday, September 9, 2024. Throughout the three-day survey, a team of Joint Commission reviewers evaluated compliance with clinical and safety standards that include emergency management, the environment of care, infection prevention and control, leadership and medication management of the health system, and primary care offices in Cazenovia and Munnsville.

The Joint Commission’s standards are developed in consultation with healthcare providers, measurement experts, and patients. They are informed by scientific literature and expert consensus to help healthcare organizations measure, assess and improve performance. The surveyors all conducted onsite observations and interviews.

“As a healthcare accreditor, The Joint Commission works with healthcare organizations across care settings to inspire safer and higher quality care that is more equitable and compassionate,” says Ken Grubbs, DNP, MBA, RN, executive vice president of Accreditation and Certification Operations and chief nursing officer, The Joint Commission. “Through collaborating on innovative solutions and evidence-based resources and tools, The Joint Commission helps drive improvement while maintaining accountability through our leading survey methods and standards. We commend Community Memorial Hospital for its commitment to advancing safety, quality, equity and compassion for all patients.”

“To be awarded The Joint Commission Gold Seal of Approval is a proud achievement and a testament to our continued commitment to patient safety and quality standards,” remarked Jeff Coakley, President and CEO. “Our healthcare team ensures survey readiness every day by integrating the high standards and metrics set forth by The Joint Commission.”

“From the clinical staff to the administrative team, our employee teamwork and dedication have made this success possible,” noted Heather Bernard, Chief Nursing Officer and Vice President of Clinical Services. “This achievement is not just a reflection of our adherence to standards but also a celebration of the compassionate care and excellence we provide to every patient.”

With the Hospital in Hamilton and now six offices throughout the region offering primary and specialty care, the healthcare network understands the impact of this accreditation.  Patients who choose CMH for their care can have confidence in the quality and safety of the care provided.  The standards set forth by the Joint Commission represent the highest patient-centered quality and safety metrics.

For more information on the survey process and award, please visit The Joint Commission website.

Community Memorial Center for Orthopedics is excited to announce its expansion into New Hartford with a new office located at 83 Genesee Street within the CNY Brain and Spine building.  This expansion aims to improve access to specialized orthopedic care for residents throughout the region.

Community Memorial Center for Orthopedics provides a comprehensive range of services, including pediatric orthopedics, joint replacement, and sports medicine.  The practice employs innovative procedures and the latest robotic technology to ensure high-quality care for every patient.

The expansion is made possible through a collaboration with CNY Brain and Spine, led by Dr. Nicholas Qandah, a respected neurosurgeon known for his expertise in complex brain and spine surgery.  This partnership will allow patients in the region to access advanced orthopedic care close to home.

“I am honored to collaborate with Dr. Richelle Takemoto and Dr. Kamaljeet Banga to extend their skills and expertise to patients in the region,” shared Dr. Nicholas Qandah. “We have a shared commitment to providing patient-centered care and contributing to the genuine healing of our patients.”

Meet the Physicians:

 Dr. Richelle Takemoto, a leading orthopedic surgeon in the region, will see patients in Hamilton and New Hartford.  Takemoto is a board-certified orthopedic surgeon specializing in trauma care, including post-traumatic reconstruction, sprain and fracture treatment, and total joint replacements of the hip, knee, and shoulder.  She is a pioneer in the use of cutting-edge robotic technology and was the first woman in the world to perform knee replacements using the Velys robotic system.  Dr. Takemoto has completed hundreds of successful robotic-assisted knee replacements at Community Memorial Hospital in Hamilton.

Dr. Nicholas Qandah, a board-certified and fellowship-trained Neurosurgeon, offers a comprehensive approach to caring for various neurosurgical needs, including cervical and lumbar spine care, spinal injuries, scoliosis treatment, and brain trauma.  In 2018, Dr. Qandah’s significant contributions led to the establishment of CNY Brain and Spine Neurosurgery in New Hartford, a practice that has flourished under his guidance.  Through the partnership with Community Memorial’s Center for Orthopedics, Dr. Qandah sees patients in Hamilton on Wednesdays, offering advanced care to patients in the Hamilton region.

Dr. Kamaljeet Banga, certified by the medical boards in the United States, Canada and India, is fellowship-trained in Orthopedic Surgery, Upper Extremity and Sports Medicine.  Dr. Banga joined the Community Memorial Center for Orthopedics in the fall of 2023, providing exceptional care to patients in the region.

The new office in New Hartford is open on Wednesdays, with walk-in hours from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Patients can also schedule appointments by calling 315-824-7040.  This location complements the existing practice located at 160 Broad Street in Hamilton, at Community Memorial’s Center for Specialties, which is open five days a week.

With the hospital adjacent to the Community Memorial Center for Orthopedics, patients benefit from streamlined access to services, including laboratory, radiology, and rehabilitation.

For more information about the Community Memorial Center for Orthopedics and its services, please visit www.communitymemorial.org/orthopedics.

The Community Memorial (CMH) Center for Orthopedics is excited to add a physician assistant to the team of medical staff within the Center for Specialties.

Frank Barber, PA, joins Dr. Richelle Takemoto and Dr. Kamaljeet Banga, with a distinguished career in orthopedic patient care. After completing his Physician Assistant Studies at the Inter-service Physician Assistant Program with a Bachelor of Science degree, Barber earned his Master’s, both from the University of Nebraska. His clinical rotation was completed at the WINN Army Community Hospital in Fort Stewart, GA, and Barber holds a certification as an aeromedical physician assistant and, most honorably, an Iraqi war medal and bronze star from the United States Army.

“Frank Barber brings an extensive history of valuable experience to the Community Memorial network,” noted Dr. Michael Walsh, Chief Medical Officer. “We’re thrilled to expand our care team with the addition of Frank, who will further enhance the superior orthopedic care patients have come to expect from our organization.”

A member of the American Academy of Physician Assistants and trained in Tactical Combat medical care, Barber has 20 years of patient care experience in both inpatient and outpatient settings. As the first assistant in orthopedic surgeries, Barber has also worked with patients with spine and neurological conditions.

“Joining the CMH Center for Orthopedics is an exciting step for me, personally and professionally,” added Barber. “I look forward to engaging with my patients, offering as an extension of this fantastic team of providers, and building important relationships with my patients on trust and communication.”

The CMH network has dedicated considerable efforts to bolster its provider team and support staff with the increased need for specialty care locally. In addition to working alongside Dr. Takemoto and Dr. Banga, Barber joins Physician Assistants Frank Walzcak and Jackie Ireland in the Center for Orthopedics. Dr. Nicholas Qandah, Neurosurgeon of CNY Brain and Spine, also sees patients in Hamilton. The brand new Center for Specialties was opened in early 2024 and is located at 160 Broad Street in Hamilton, on the Hospital campus. With the Hospital directly adjacent, services are streamlined for patient efficiency across all offices, including ancillary services such as laboratory, radiology, rehabilitation and more. Patients looking to make an appointment with the Center for Orthopedics are encouraged to call 315.824.7040.

Community Memorial also offers primary care in six locations (Hamilton, Cazenovia, Morrisville, Munnsville, Sherrill and Waterville) and warmly welcomes patients for all services, including specialty care. Regularly check the ‘News and Events’ section of the website for the latest updates as services continue to expand.

The Center for Orthopedics of Community Memorial (CMH) is excited to announce the addition of an Athletic Trainer Liaison within the healthcare network.

Cody Herbert, MS, ATC, a certified local athletic trainer, joins CMH in a concentrated effort to develop relationships with area secondary schools and universities.  With an extensive history of collaboration with sports medicine team members, Herbert has been in college athletics for more than 15 years after earning both his Bachelor’s (Athletic Training) and Master’s of Science (Human Performance) from Ithaca College.

Offering expertise in direct medical coverage of a variety of college sports throughout his career, previously with the renowned Colgate Athletics program, Herbert understands the array of care aspects involved with injured athletes, lending his knowledge to the collaboration needed when injury occurs.  Having a direct line to the Center for Orthopedics of Community Memorial, which features physicians Richelle Takemoto, MD, and Kamaljeet Banga, MD, along with multiple physician assistants, will enable local athletes to get immediate care.

“The addition of Cody as CMH’s Athletic Trainer Liaison will build relationships between regional sports programs and our team of board-certified orthopedic surgeons,” stated Jeff Coakley, President and CEO of Community Memorial.  “Cody’s experience will assist athletes by providing streamlined orthopedic and sports medicine care in order to provide the best outcomes for athletes across the region.”

As a member of both the National and NYS Athletic Trainer Associations, Herbert is trained and board-certified.  In his new role, he will serve as a direct line to orthopedic care when sports injuries occur.  “I look forward to connecting with local school districts and colleges to build connections and community, which will allow for streamlined care for young athletes,” added Herbert.  “Improving outcomes and offering prompt care options will, in turn, reduce downtime for patients and offer reassurance to the parents and coaches.  After 12 years in Hamilton, I’m thrilled to continue to serve the community in a new fashion and be a part of CMH’s exciting vision and future.”

With the Hospital located in Hamilton, services are streamlined for patient efficiency across all primary care offices, including ancillary services such as laboratory, radiology, rehabilitation and more.  “Often, an athlete may experience a minor injury and after an orthopedic consultation, require physical therapy in order to return to normal activities,” added Herbert.  “Connecting patients to the Community Memorial Center for Orthopedics with outpatient rehabilitation offered right here will provide convenient recovery options.”

The Community Memorial (CMH) network continues to grow with the addition of a new nurse practitioner to the Center for Cardiology within the Hamilton Family Health Center.

Amanda Stewart, FNP-BC, received her Bachelor of Science in Nursing at Utica College of Syracuse University before advancing to earn her Master’s in Science in Family Health from SUNY IT. She joins the Community Memorial Center for Cardiology with ten years’ experience in acute settings, providing comprehensive healthcare services and is skilled in patient assessment, diagnosis, and treatment planning. As the lead of a Hospitalist program in a large facility, Stewart brings leadership and extensive experience in clinical and inpatient care. Additionally, she has worked in both inpatient and outpatient cardiology with interventional and electrophysiology (EP) experience, focusing on structural heart. Her focus on structural heart care led her to help establish a structural heart program to elevate cardiovascular care. Stewart is passionate about a team-based approach to medicine, emphasizing communication, transparency, and accountability to optimize patient outcomes.

“We are excited to welcome Amanda Stewart to our medical staff,” noted Dr. Michael Walsh, Chief Medical Officer. “Her knowledge and deep expertise in both the inpatient and outpatient settings will enhance the cardiac care provided within the CMH network and further elevate the reach that our cardiology team has with our community.”

A member of the Society of Hospital Medicine, Stewart is also certified by the American Nurses Credentialing Center, along with both Advanced Coronary and Pediatric Life Support certifications. Stewart will be joining fellow nurse practitioners Shelby Sharp and Sherri Loucks on the CMH Cardiology team, led by esteemed Dr. Avneet Singh.

“Joining the Community Memorial network is an exciting transitional step in my career,” added Stewart. “I’m looking forward to the collaborative care that I can provide with my peers while bringing my skills in cardiac care to patients.”

With continued recognition of the important need for primary care and the challenges faced with access to care in rural areas, CMH has dedicated considerable efforts to bolster its provider team and support staff. This activity around preventative care has supported the network in several areas of growth, including primary and specialty care.

With the Hospital located in Hamilton, services are streamlined for patient efficiency across all primary care offices, including ancillary services such as laboratory, radiology, rehabilitation and more. Patients looking to make an appointment with any office are encouraged to call the CMH Referral Line at 315.824.6620.

Community Memorial also offers primary care in six locations (Hamilton, Cazenovia, Morrisville, Munnsville, Sherrill and Waterville) and warmly welcomes patients for all services, including specialty care. Regularly check the ‘News and Events’ section of the website for the latest updates as services continue to expand.