Posts by Keara Connors
Community Memorial Strengthens Cardiology Team with the Addition of Nurse Practitioner
Community Memorial is proud to announce a significant enhancement to its cardiology team with the addition of Nurse Practitioner Sherri Loucks. Teaming up with Dr. Avneet Singh and Shelby Sharp, FNP-C, Loucks will play a crucial role in delivering high-quality cardiac care to the community.
Bringing over two decades of expertise in both inpatient and outpatient cardiology care, Sherri Loucks has also garnered valuable experience in hospital medicine during her tenure as a Hospitalist in the Utica region. Loucks holds an impressive academic background, earning her Masters of Science in Nursing from SUNY Health Science Center in Syracuse, NY. Furthermore, she obtained her Family Nurse Practitioner certification from Community-General Hospital in Syracuse and graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Utica College of Syracuse University.
Loucks’ commitment to excellence is evident through her participation in Nurse Practitioner Clinical Preceptor programs and her recognition with the President’s Award for Voluntary Faculty Services from SUNY Upstate Medical University. Her extensive experience has finely tuned her skills in cardiovascular disease management, ECG interpretation, cardiac device management, and acute and chronic disease management. Additionally, Loucks is well-versed in hospital medicine, collaborating seamlessly with interdisciplinary teams.
Expressing his enthusiasm, Dr. Avneet Singh, Cardiologist, shared, “I am thrilled that Sherri has joined the Cardiology team at Community Memorial. Sherri’s experience and skillset make a great addition to our team, and it is the patients who will benefit the most.”
The Cardiology team at Community Memorial is led by Dr. Avneet Singh, Cardiologist, collaborating with him are Shelby Sharp, FNP-C and Sherri Loucks, NP.
Community Memorial looks forward to the positive impact that Sherri Loucks will undoubtedly bring to the provision of comprehensive and compassionate cardiac care within the community. For further information or to schedule an appointment, please contact the Community Memorial Cardiology Center by calling (315)648-6408.
Community Memorial Employees Receive Donated Holiday Meal
The entire team at Community Memorial was treated to a donated holiday meal by Michael Latrielle of the Hamilton Inn in celebration and appreciation during the Thanksgiving season.
A warm gourmet lunch was prepared by the staff at the Hamilton Inn on East Lake Road in Hamilton and delivered to the hospital for staff to enjoy together, as Latrielle and his team wanted a way to say thank you to the organization’s employees for their continued hard work in providing healthcare services to the community.
“The providers and staff throughout the organization truly appreciated Michael’s generosity in providing a holiday meal. His recognition of staff’s caring work underlines Michael’s commitment to the community we serve.” noted Jeff Coakley, President and CEO.
Turkey, stuffing, and all the accompaniments were packaged up and delivered to offsite staff in the Community Memorial primary care offices and offsite billing department as well, for all to enjoy as the Thanksgiving holiday is right around the corner. Employees were delighted to receive this donated meal and sent appreciation to the tremendous work by Latrielle and his crew to prepare over 250 hot lunches.
Community Memorial sends a reminder to all patients and community members that the organization is here for them every day, even on holidays, and wishes a safe and healthy holiday season to all. To learn more about the personalized healthcare services provided at the Hospital in Hamilton and its five Family Health Center locations, or to learn more about becoming a patient of the Community Memorial network, please visit www.communitymemorial.org.
COMMUNITY MEMORIAL EXPANDS ORTHOPEDIC TEAM WITH A NEW SURGEON
Community Memorial (CMH) is pleased to announce the latest addition to the orthopedic team, Dr. Kamaljeet Banga, MD, FRCSC, ABOS, FAAOS. Dr. Banga will be joining as a specialist in orthopedics and sports medicine, bringing a wealth of expertise and dedication to patient care that makes him a valuable asset to the CMH medical staff.
With over fifteen years of extensive experience in orthopedics, Dr. Banga has practiced in the United States, Canada, and India. His career has been marked by a strong background in sports medicine, upper extremity, military, and trauma care in both university and community healthcare settings. Dr. Banga’s insights and contributions are poised to significantly enhance the range of services and capabilities offered by the CMH orthopedic practice.
“I am truly excited to become a part of the Community Memorial team. It is my privilege to join such a dedicated group of healthcare professionals who share a common goal of delivering exceptional orthopedic care,” stated Dr. Kamaljeet Banga, “I am eager to bring my expertise in upper extremity orthopedics and sports medicine to benefit our patients and contribute to the continued growth and success of Community Memorial’s Orthopedic Center.”
Dr. Banga is a distinguished professional, certified by the medical boards in the United States, Canada, and India. He holds board certification in sports medicine and orthopedics from the respective medical associations of these nations, demonstrating his expertise and commitment to providing exceptional care. 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. These specialized training experiences have equipped Dr. Banga with the skills and knowledge necessary to deliver outstanding medical care in the fields of orthopedics and sports medicine.
“We are thrilled to welcome Dr. Banga to our Orthopedic Center at Community Memorial. His expertise in upper extremity orthopedic care and sports medicine perfectly complements our existing team, which includes Dr. Takemoto and Frank Walczak, PA-C, ATC, CSCS,” commented Dr. Michael Walsh, Chief Medical Officer at Community Memorial. “With Dr. Banga’s arrival, we are positioned to provide our patients with even more specialized care and enhanced treatment options.”
As Community Memorial continues the pursuit of excellence in patient care, Dr. Banga’s arrival is a testament to the commitment to providing the highest quality healthcare services to the community. He will be working closely with Dr. Richelle Takemoto and the Orthopedic team to ensure seamless integration of their combined expertise and a collaborative approach to orthopedic patient care.
“We are honored to have Dr. Banga join the Community Memorial family. His exceptional skills and dedication to patient care align seamlessly with our mission to provide the highest quality healthcare to our community,” stated Jeff Coakley, President and CEO at Community Memorial. “Dr. Banga’s expertise will undoubtedly enhance the level of service we can offer to our patients. We look forward to the positive impact he will bring to our Orthopedic Center and our commitment to excellence in healthcare.”
The community is invited to join in extending a warm welcome to Dr. Kamaljeet Banga as he embarks on this exciting new chapter of his medical journey locally. His official start date is scheduled for December 2023, and the organization eagerly anticipates the positive impact he will have on patients’ lives, as well as the contributions he will make to the growing team.
For further information or to schedule an appointment with Dr. Banga, please contact the Orthopedic Center at 315-824-7040 or visit us at www.communitymemorial.org/services/orthopedic-center/
COMMUNITY MEMORIAL WELCOMES PHYSICIAN ASSISTANT TO ORTHOPEDIC PRACTICE
Community Memorial is thrilled to introduce its newest addition to the orthopedic practice, Frank J. Walczak IV, PA-C, ATC, CSCS. Mr. Walczak joins as a Physician Assistant with a strong foundation in orthopedics and athletic training with a commitment to delivering exceptional patient care. He will work alongside Dr. Richelle Takemoto to enhance the scope and quality of orthopedic services offered at Community Memorial.
Frank Walczak is a recent graduate receiving a Master of Science in Physician Assistant Studies from Le Moyne College in Syracuse, NY, and a Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology with a concentration in Athletic Training from the State University of New York at Cortland, Mr. Walczak brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to the practice.
He holds multiple national certifications, including a NCCPA Certified Physician Associate (PA-C) certification, NSCA Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist (CSCS), and NATABOC Certified Athletic Trainer (ATC). Mr. Walczak is also licensed as a New York State Physician Associate and holds certifications in Advanced Cardiovascular Life Support (ACLS), Basic Life Support (BLS), and First Aid from the American Heart Association.
“We are excited to enhance the growth of our Orthopedic Center at Community Memorial and remain steadfast in our commitment to providing the highest quality of care. Frank’s addition enables us to broaden access to orthopedic services, and his extensive background in sports and athletic training greatly enriches our team’s capabilities,” stated Dr. Richelle Takemoto, Orthopedic Surgeon at Community Memorial.
In addition to his professional qualifications, Mr. Walczak is an active member of professional organizations, including the New York State Society of Physician Assistants (NYSSPA), the American Academy of Physician Assistants (AAPA), the National Strength & Conditioning Association (NSCA), and the National Athletic Trainers Association (NATA).
Mr. Walczak’s clinical experience includes rotations in various medical fields, such as Emergency Medicine, Neurosurgery, General Surgery, Family Medicine, Pediatrics, and Orthopedics. In these rotations, he built proficiencies in wound closures, joint injections, casting, splinting, and joint aspiration, making him a valuable addition to our orthopedic team.
Before joining Community Memorial, Mr. Walczak worked as an Athletic Trainer at Victory Sports Medicine & Orthopedics in Skaneateles, where he provided athletic training services in high school and junior collegiate settings. He also assisted with rehabilitation, created personalized exercise training programs, and supported orthopedic providers as a Physician Extender.
Community Memorial is excited to have Frank J. Walczak IV, PA-C, ATC, CSCS, as part of the orthopedic team and looks forward to the positive impact he will have on patients’ orthopedic care. He is now accepting appointments and can be reached at the following contact information: Orthopedic office at 315-824-7040 or visit us at www.communitymemorial.org/services/orthopedic-center/
2023 Community Flu Pod
This year Community Memorial is expanding access to flu vaccine for all community members by offering flu pod services at our Family Health Centers.
All community members are welcome, please bring your health insurance identification cards.
Community Memorial Updates COVID Vaccination Requirements
The Community Memorial (CMH) health network will no longer require employees to have the COVID vaccination as a condition of employment, following updated guidelines from the state and federal levels.
CMH Infection Preventionist Shelly Trost, RN, noted that the declaration made by the federal government stating the COVID public health emergency has ended, which allows the organization to adjust both daily screening requirements for employees, vendors, patients and visitors, along with the mandatory vaccination requirement for employees. “The past few years have impacted our daily operations in an effort to keep everyone safe,” noted Trost. “Now, these updates by the New York State Department of Health around COVID have allowed Community Memorial to return to some pre-pandemic procedures while maintaining patient safety.”
In May, the state’s Department of Health started the process of repealing the COVID vaccine requirement for workers in health settings; hospitals, nursing homes, and more. This was previously implemented in August of 2021 by former Governor Cuomo and resulted in a massive number of healthcare workers leaving their jobs due to vaccination non-compliance.
“While Community Memorial recommends employees be vaccinated against all necessary infectious diseases, we anticipate this change in regulation will better allow us to fill open positions,” added Leeann Light, Vice President of Human Resources. “We welcome colleagues that were part of the CMH family and left due to the mandate to consider returning.”
CMH continues to educate and encourage employees, patients and visitors about the signs and symptoms of any viral illness, including COVID, and requests diligence to prevent the spread of illness within the hospital and its five Family Health Centers by using standard precautions and proper hand hygiene.
To see all open positions within the Community Memorial network, please visit https://communitymemorial.org/careers/ or call the Human Resources Department at 315.824.6133.
For 70 years, Community Memorial Hospital’s mission has been to provide quality and caring healthcare to thousands of patients throughout nearly 30 Central New York communities throughout Madison County and beyond. Community Memorial provides primary care services with a network of five Family Health Centers (Hamilton, Cazenovia, Morrisville, Munnsville, and Waterville), an after-hours urgent care clinic – available in the evenings and weekends, and 24/7 emergency medicine services.
May is National Nurses’ Month!
From providing treatment and comfort for the sick to welcoming new life into the world, nurses across the nation are central to healthy and optimistic communities, offering an unparalleled impact on healthcare. That’s the message the American Nurses Association (ANA) is touting with the 2023 National Nurses Month theme “You Make a Difference.”
At Community Memorial Hospital (CMH) and its five Family Health Centers, the annual celebration of the team of nurses is always an exciting time. “We enjoy the opportunity to send extra appreciation and recognition to our nursing staff,” noted Heather Bernard, Chief Nursing Officer and Vice President of Nursing and Clinical Services. “This year, we’re able to extend the national week into a national month and bring more focus areas of celebration to our organization for our nursing team.”
The 2023 theme honors the variety of nursing roles, and the month is divided into weekly focus areas – Self Care, Recognition, Professional Development and Community Engagement. The CMH Nursing Leadership team will highlight these areas with unique activities each week, aligning with the chosen topics the ANA has selected. “Dedicating each week of the month towards our nurses is exciting,” added Bernard. “Providing ideas and resources along with engaging with our team to show the gratitude that our community has for their hard work is our personal goal at CMH.”
Annually, National Nurses Week begins on May 6, marked as RN Recognition Day, and ends on May 12, the birthday of Florence Nightingale, founder of nursing as a modern profession. Through its state and constituent member associations, ANA advances the nursing profession by fostering high standards of nursing practice, promoting economic and general welfare, a positive and realistic view of nursing, and lobbying Congress and regulatory agencies on health care issues affecting nurses and the public.
Traditionally, National Nurses Week is devoted to highlighting the diverse ways registered nurses work to improve healthcare for all. From bedside nursing in hospitals and long-term care facilities to the halls of research institutions, state legislatures, and Congress, the depth and breadth of the nursing profession is meeting the expanding healthcare needs of American society.
For over 70 years, Community Memorial Hospital’s mission has been to provide quality and caring healthcare to thousands of patients in nearly 30 Central New York communities throughout Madison County and beyond. Community Memorial provides primary care services with a network of five Family Health Centers (Hamilton, Cazenovia, Morrisville, Munnsville, and Waterville), an after-hours urgent care clinic – available in the evenings and weekends, and 24/7 emergency medicine services.
Free Arthritis Clinic Hamilton, NY
On Thursday April 20, 2023, Dr. Richelle Takemoto will host a free* Arthritis clinic. Patients will have a 15 minute screening with Doctor Takemoto and if arthritis is suspected, will be given an order for medical imaging and scheduled for a follow up appointment.
Location: 150 Broad St. Hamilton, NY 13346. At the north end of the campus, facing Colgate University’s Reid Athletic Center.
Time: 4 PM – 6PM
Event is open to all community members, no registration is required. Patients will be seen on a first come, first serve basis.
*Medical imaging and follow up appointment are not covered under the free screening.
Community Memorial Goes Red
The 8th annual Go Red Lunch and Learn event was held on Friday, February 3, again hosted at Colgate University’s Hall of Presidents through the partnership of Community Memorial (CMH) and Colgate’s CU Well Program. This event for women and men serves as an education symposium focusing on heart health.
Community members, CMH patients and staff, donned their red attire and enjoyed a delicious lunch while listening to the 5-person panel discuss this year’s “Cardiac Care” story, featuring Marney, a patient of both CMH primary and specialty care. Marney’s story shared her real-life experience of how her Community Memorial healthcare providers helped diagnose her serious heart condition, allowing for prompt treatment.
Collaborating on the panel and answering questions from event moderator and Colgate physician Dr. Merrill Miller was Dr. Avneet Singh, Cardiologist; Rebecca Dorn, Cardiology Nurse Practitioner; Dr. Kerri Taylor, Primary Care; and Bernie Casscles, RN, Director of Nursing Emergency Services, all from the team of clinicians at Community Memorial. “This is my first Go Red at Community Memorial, and I’m proud to collaborate with other medical professionals and one of our patients to bring information to the community,” stated Dr. Singh. “Heart health is a relevant topic year-round, but we like to capture the expanded attention during National Heart Health Month each February.”
This annual collaboration between Community Memorial and Colgate University works to better patient outcomes by informing guests on specific heart-health topics. This free community forum showcases the importance of patients seeking care right away when they may have a heart medical issue. “When a heart emergency is happening, time is of the essence. The ER of Community Memorial is here for Hamilton and all the surrounding communities in these medical emergencies,” added Nurse Casscles.
National Wear Red Day is held annually on the first Friday in February. On this day, employees and medical staff at Community Memorial Hospital wore red to show support for heart disease awareness and for understanding its risks, and employees helped raise funds to donate to the American Heart Association. Heart Disease is the #1 killer of Americans, killing almost 700,000 individuals each year, but there is good news. According to the American Heart Association, 80 percent of cardiovascular diseases are preventable. The American Heart Association recommends that individuals know their numbers: cholesterol, blood pressure, blood sugar, body mass index (BMI) and their family history.
For 70 years, Community Memorial Hospital’s mission has been to provide quality and caring healthcare to thousands of patients throughout nearly 30 Central New York communities throughout Madison County and beyond. Community Memorial provides primary care services with a network of five Family Health Centers (Hamilton, Cazenovia, Morrisville, Munnsville, and Waterville), an after-hours urgent care clinic – available in the evenings and weekends, and 24/7 emergency medicine services.
Go Red: Listen To Your Heart
In the midst of 2022, Marney Rowland was an avid walker, logging anywhere between four to seven miles daily. The tread on her sneakers showed her success, and the scale did, too, as she’d begun losing weight and feeling healthier. Dropping 25 pounds, Marney noticed her heart felt like it was skipping beats.
Community Memorial Primary Care Physician, Dr. Kerri Taylor, adjusted some of Marney’s medication – but the condition worsened. When she began to see some kaleidoscope colors in the corners of her eyes, Dr. Taylor referred her to Dr. Avneet Singh, Cardiologist at Community Memorial. “I had seen a cardiologist about six years ago but hadn’t had any abnormal findings,” noted Marney. “These symptoms and everything that came after was unexpected.”
In early November, Dr. Singh’s office performed an EKG (electrocardiogram) on Marney – a test recording the heart’s electrical signal to check for different heart conditions. After seeing some concerning results, a second test was performed immediately following. The next day, the office called Marney and asked her to return for a nuclear stress test, which uses a tracer and an imaging machine to create pictures of the blood flow to the heart. Marney was then sent to Crouse Health in Syracuse for a heart catheterization, a procedure in which a thin tube is guided through a blood vessel in the heart.
“The doctor came in and said I had blockages and needed a five-way bypass, and I was sent to Upstate Hospital, next door, right away,” added Marney. “They kept me a few days, and then I had surgery. Seven hours in the OR for what ended up being a quadruple bypass, then five more days as an inpatient, and I went home.”
Post-op, Marney has some fluid still on her lungs, and her care team adjusts her medications and monitors her blood levels weekly. “Dr. Singh advised I will most likely be on AFib medication for a couple of months, which is common,” stated Marney. “I feel better than I did yesterday but not as good as I’ll feel tomorrow.”
Home recovering, Marney notes the appreciation for her long-time primary care provider. “I’ve seen Dr. Taylor for 20 years, I love her – and now, I’ve got a great Cardiologist with Dr. Singh. He has a great attitude with patients and always lifts me mentally.” Originally from the Oneida and Sherrill area, Marney moved north a few years ago, now traveling for an hour to see Dr. Taylor and Dr. Singh. “When you have a great medical provider you love, it’s worth going the distance to them.”
To learn more about the primary and specialty care services provided within the Community Memorial network, visit www.communitymemorial.org. Community Memorial Hospital is a critical access hospital in Hamilton, NY and offers primary care in five locations; Hamilton, Cazenovia, Morrisville, Munnsville, and Waterville.