Healthy Living Volume 25 June 2025

Volume 25 of the Healthy Living Newsletter is here!

Primary Care: Instant Access for Patients

CMH has expanded their healthcare network’s primary care team to include Dr. Andrew Call and Dr. Isaiah (Jake) Hammonds, allowing them to continue focusing on patient needs.

In This Issue: 

• Primary Care: Instant Access for Patients
• CEO Update
• 2025 Employee Award Winners
• Instant Access for Patients
• Volunteer Brunch
• Community Memorial Center for Orthopedics Expands Robotics Surgery Program
• Community Memorial Center for Orthopedics Partners with Utica Blue Sox
• Community Memorial Center for Orthopedics Announces Hip Fracture Program
• Community Memorial’s General Surgery Expands for Patient Care
• Our Team Is Welcoming New Members!

Read the PDF by clicking here

Two primary care offices within the network feature same-day and next-day appointment availability: Cazenovia and Waterville. Dr. Andrew Call, the organization’s newest primary care team member, sees patients in Cazenovia. Dr. Isaiah (Jake) Hammonds welcomes patients 18 and up in the Waterville Family Health Center.

DR. CALL completed his post-doctoral training at the University of Rochester and graduated from the Mount Sinai School of Medicine in New York City after obtaining his Bachelor of Science in Biology from Alfred University. 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. HAMMONDS graduated from the American University of Antigua College of Medicine with his Medical Degree. He obtained a Doctorate in Chiropractic from New York Chiropractic College and earned his Bachelor of Arts from Regent College University of the State of New York in Albany. With a robust history in the United States Army and years of successfully managing his chiropractic office, Hammonds has focused on patient care, cultivating an extensive patient panel.

“We understand the varying challenges patients may experience in seeking a primary care provider,” noted Jeff Coakley, President and CEO. “Whether insurance related, provider retirement, or being new to a region, we’ve worked to improve access to care by offering services in multiple locations throughout the region with instant availability.”

CEO Update

Dear Community Members,

I’m proud to share the latest edition of Healthy Living, a publication that celebrates the progress, innovation, and compassionate care that define Community Memorial. This issue shines a spotlight on several exciting developments across our health system. We’re thrilled to announce the expansion of primary care services in both Cazenovia and Waterville—a vital step in ensuring accessible, high-quality healthcare for our growing communities.

Inside, you’ll also learn how we’re streamlining access to orthopedic care in the event of a hip fracture, improving outcomes and reducing time to treatment when efficiency matters. We’re proud to highlight our role as a regional leader in spine surgery, now home to Spine Robotic Surgery, a testament to our commitment to bringing advanced technology to rural healthcare.

The month of May provided us with a timely opportunity to recognize the heart of our organization: our team. Their commitment and dedication to patients in our community are a powerful reminder of what sets us apart from other organizations. During this years’ Hospital Week we celebrated providing health, healing and hope and announced our annual awards. Please join me in recognizing all hospital workers for their contribution to the health and well-being of our community.

Thank you for your continued support of Community Memorial. Together, we are building a healthier future—one innovation, one patient, and one community at a time.

Warm regards,
Jeff Coakley President & CEO, Community Memorial

2025 Community Memorial Employee Award Winners

PROVIDER OF THE YEAR
Kareem Hamad, MD

NURSE OF DISTINCTION
Mary Ellen Schell, RN

EMPLOYEE OF THE YEAR
Charles Gillett, PT

Celebrating National Hospital Week

Primary Care: Instant Access for Patients

The Cazenovia Family Health Center is located just one mile from the center of town off Route 20. Patients are encouraged to call to establish care with Dr. Call and be seen quickly for preventative health check-ups and acute medical concerns. The Waterville office is located right in the village on Main Street, less than 15 miles south of New Hartford and neighboring larger towns. Both offices offer a quick patient establishment process and appointment scheduling for a streamlined process.

Dr. Michael Walsh, Chief Medical Officer, noted, “Physician shortages and geographical locations can present challenges for rural communities, contributing to delayed healthcare for patients. At CMH, we’re offering solutions to patients with care throughout our network and expedited appointments.” Both Dr. Call and Dr. Hammonds offer patients another entry point into the Community Memorial network; patients have direct access to ancillary services, including laboratory, radiology, and rehabilitation. Both locations also offer female providers: Kelly North, PA, in Cazenovia and Marla Smith, NP, in Waterville.

Community Memorial offers primary care in six locations in total (Cazenovia, 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.

Community Memorial Volunteer Brunch

On Thursday, April 24th, during National Volunteer Week, Community Memorial (CMH) was excited to host a celebratory brunch event for all volunteers of the organization. Centering around appreciation for the time and dedication that volunteers provide, the brunch featured guests from all corners of volunteerism; the Hospital and Foundation Boards of Directors, and the CMH Auxiliary.

“This event is just one small way we can show our true gratitude for the hours and commitment that our volunteers give back to CMH,” noted Heather Bernard, Chief Nursing Officer and VP of Clinical Services. “It’s incredible to really see the impact that each volunteer has, and the skills and services they bring to our network.”

Dr. Andrew Call, Primary Care provider, was the featured guest speaker, and everyone was treated to breakfast goodies, a raffle and some CMH trivia as the event wrapped up with a message of sentiment and encouragement to all volunteers.

Learn more about volunteer opportunities at CMH at CommunityMemorial.org.

Community Memorial Center for Orthopedics Expands Robotics Surgery Program

CMH is excited to announce another milestone in it’s orthopedic program as Dr. Nicholas Qandah introduces robotic spine surgery with the support of the ExcelsiusGPS system.

“The addition of the spine robotic surgery further expands the services offered to our patients locally,” noted Jeff Coakley, President and CEO. “The robotic spine surgery performed by Dr. Qandah will provide care for patients with a variety of conditions and issues while also improving patient outcomes, a continuous goal of CMH as reflected in our patient experience ratings.”

Launched in 2022, Community Memorial’s Robotics Surgery Program is led by Dr. Richelle Takemoto, the first surgeon locally to complete over 100 robotic knee replacements using VELYS technology. Now, with Dr. Qandah’s addition of the ExcelsiusGPS system, the program has expanded into advanced spine surgery, further elevating patient care in the region. CMH is excited to announce another milestone in it’s orthopedic program as Dr. Nicholas Qandah introduces robotic spine surgery with the support of the ExcelsiusGPS system. Dr. Nicholas Qandah of CNY Brain and Spine Neurosurgery and the Community Memorial Center for Orthopedics.

The ExcelsiusGPS system enhances precision in spine surgery, offering real-time navigation and improved outcomes. Dr. Qandah has performed over 250 procedures using this advanced technology, making him the only physician outside of Rochester in New York State to offer it.

Dr. Qandah will be available to see patients at the Center for Orthopedics at Community Memorial, situated on the main campus at 150 Broad Street in Hamilton, in addition to several other locations CNY Brain & Spine Neurosurgery has available.

To improve access to specialty care, CMH has expanded its Orthopedics team and streamlined services at the Center for Specialties at 160 Broad Street. With a daily walk-in clinic and next-day availability after ER visits, the practice offers expert care for joints, spine, and sports injuries with added convenience.

The Community Memorial Center for Orthopedics has expanded care into New Hartford each Wednesday within the CNY Brain and Spine Neurosurgery building at 83 Genesee Street. As this expansion has grown in volume, orthopedic care is now also provided in Cazenovia with Dr. Kamal Banga, specializing in sports medicine and upper extremities. These expansions aim to improve access to specialized orthopedic care for residents throughout the region.

“Enhanced technology benefits patients. Robotics provide safer, smaller, and more precise incisions, shorter anesthesia time, and better outcomes. I’m excited to offer this option locally for those seeking superior care through Community Memorial.”

To schedule an appointment with Dr. Qandah or to learn more about locally provided orthopedic care, please call (315) 824-7040 or CommunityMemorial.org/ortho.

Community Memorial Center for Orthopedics Partners with Utica Blue Sox

The Community Memorial (CMH) Center for Orthopedics and the Utica Blue Sox, of the Perfect Game Collegiate Baseball League (PGCBL), are thrilled to announce a new partnership that will bring expert athletic training and comprehensive orthopedic care to the Blue Sox program.

This collaboration underscores Community Memorial’s commitment to supporting local athletes with sports medicine care. “A partnership with Community Memorial is an integral component to our operations not only with the Utica Blue Sox teams but also with our Academy members,” stated George Deak, Utica Blue Sox team owner. “This agreement ensures that all Utica Blue Sox members and players will receive the highest level of care in the event of injury.”

As the official orthopedic and athletic training provider for the Utica Blue Sox, Community Memorial will offer a range of services, including on-field injury assessment, game-day medical coverage through an athletic trainer, and access to their team of boardcertified orthopedic surgeons and sports medicine physicians.

“Our Certified Athletic Trainer, Cody Herbert, onsite at games will provide Blue Sox athletes with exceptional care,” stated Dr. Richelle Takemoto, of the CMH Center for Orthopedics. Community Memorial Center for Orthopedics Partners with Utica Blue Sox

“With over 12 years of Division I sports performance experience and collaborative work with sports medicine team members, Cody will work as a direct connection between players, coaches, and parents to our team of orthopedic specialists, ensuring prompt care with excellent results.”

“This partnership provides the Blue Sox’s talented athletes with the highest level of orthopedic care,” noted Cody Herbert, Certified Athletic Trainer and Physician Liaison of CMH. “The care offered through this partnership will help these skilled players perform at their best and ensure their long-term health.”

Reinforcing Community Memorial’s role as a trusted provider of orthopedic care for individuals of all activity levels in our communities, the new collaboration with the Blue Sox will add one more layer of services offered within the Center for Orthopedics. Recently, the Community Memorial Center for Orthopedics has expanded care into New Hartford each Wednesday within the CNY Brain and Spine Neurosurgery building at 83 Genesee Street. As this expansion has grown in volume, orthopedic care is now also provided in the Cazenovia with Dr. Kamal Banga, specializing in sports medicine and upper extremities. These expansions aim to improve access to specialized orthopedic care for residents throughout the region.

To learn more about any of the Community Memorial services, visit CommunityMemorial. org. Go to  Utica Blue Sox schedule, for the most up-to date information.

 

Community Memorial Center for Orthopedics Announces Hip Fracture Program

CMH is excited to offer a new specialty program centered on focused care to help patients heal faster and regain mobility after a hip fracture.

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 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 improved 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 injured 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.

Community Memorial’s General Surgery Expands for Patient Care

The Community Memorial (CMH) Center for Surgical Services has expanded its team and locations, giving patients quicker access to compassionate, advanced care in Hamilton, Cazenovia and Utica, with more locations coming soon.

Dr. Gregory Ripich and Dr. Nils-Tomas McBride lead the expansion with supportive clinical care provided by longtime CMH General Surgeon, Dr. Martin Ernits. The expanded surgical team offers a wide range of surgical procedures to patients to stay healthy, heal faster and avoid long wait times for essential care.

Dr. Ripich, who joined CMH in 2022, and his extensive career has defined his surgical interest and experience in advanced minimally invasive surgery and endoscopic procedures. Ripich performs elective procedures and surgeries, specializing in various surgeries such as colon/rectal, breast, thyroid, skin and wound. Most recently, he and his team successfully launched a vein disease program, focusing on the care and treatment of varicose veins. “More than cosmetic, varicose veins can be painful, heavy and achy,” noted Dr. Ripich. “CMH is now offering a simple and innovative outpatient treatment for this condition.”

Dr. McBride came to CMH in 2024, with extensive training and experience in hernia repair, gallbladder issues and gastrointestinal care. With his specialty care focusing on breast biopsies, McBride’s dedication has brought advancements to Hamilton with this new service now offered locally. “This new option is a huge advantage for patients in our region,” added Dr. McBride. “Our commitment to care with this vital procedure means faster procedure times, which lead to faster results and peace of mind sooner.”

With a strong commitment to improve access to quality healthcare in the region, CMH has dedicated considerable efforts to bolster its provider team and support staff. Additional locations allow CMH to care for more patients, offering care closer to home. Appointments and procedures are often available within a week, including routine colonoscopies, a critical tool in screening for colon cancer.

“Dr. McBride and his team were truly awesome, and made me feel completely comfortable during my procedure. His kind, approachable and caring demeanor put me at ease and showed me I chose the best surgeon for my procedure.”

– ELAINE C., BREAST BIOPSY PATIENT

“We believe in proactive care,” says Dr. Ripich. “Our team is here to catch issues early and treat them quickly.”

Dr. Ripich welcomes patients in Hamilton and Cazenovia and Dr. McBride sees patients in Hamilton and Utica. Patients can schedule an appointment or be seen through the walk-in clinics. Patients who visit the CMH Emergency Department at 150 Broad Street will have direct access to the General Surgery program. For a complete list of the locations for appointments, please visit CommunityMemorial.org/surgery.

Our Team of Professionals is Welcoming New Members

To learn more about all open positions, including some with sign on bonuses, visit our Careers page.