Englewood Health Working to Ease Food Insecurity

Posted on by Keri Flaccomio

Hospital partners with Center for Food Action to feed families, support health needs 

As the COVID-19 pandemic continues to impact the economic livelihoods of people in Bergen County and beyond, Englewood Health is providing resources and access to food through its new Food Insecurity Response Initiative (FIRI), in collaboration with the Center for Food Action (CFA). 

After screening patients for food insecurity, hospital staff register those in need with the CFA. Within 24–48 hours, the CFA team books an appointment with the patient for food pickup or delivery every two weeks. Individuals who reside outside of Bergen County are connected to local resources in their area. 

The FIRI program began in early September in the mother/baby unit of the hospital, where nurses and social workers recognized growing concerns over where some patients would get their next meal upon leaving the hospital. Over the past few months, the FIRI program has grown to include patients of the Englewood Health Physician Network. Currently the program is expanding to patients in other departments and geographic areas, including Hudson County. 

“Englewood Health is committed to promoting health and wellness by providing high-quality care for our patients, as well as addressing some of the social determinants of health affecting our community,” said Jamie Ketas, vice president of quality at Englewood Health. “This program began as a response to the food insecurity of our patients and families, and has grown into a partnership to address these needs across Bergen and Passaic counties, with plans to expand even further.” 

Englewood Health has identified access to healthy foods as a pervasive issue existing prior to the COVID-19 pandemic. Every three years, the hospital—and all nonprofit hospitals in the United States—perform a Community Health Needs Assessment (CHNA), surveying healthcare issues in the 18+ population, identifying current efforts to address these issues, and formulating a three-year plan to work toward cultivating a healthier community. 

In the Englewood Health community, wellness and prevention, behavioral health, and management of chronic conditions have been identified as top priorities. These areas are further impacted by socioeconomic factors, which include access to healthy foods. 

“We are delighted to partner with Englewood Health in making sure individuals and families can put healthy food on their tables,” said Patricia Espy, executive director at the Center for Food Action. “Through this collaboration, low-income households at high risk for food insecurity receive packages containing meat or fish, milk, eggs, dairy items, fresh produce, and shelf-stable foods. Providing food regularly to those in need helps ensure good nutrition and reduces the level of stress for those struggling to make ends meet. We are grateful to Englewood Health for their leadership in building a healthier, more food-secure community.”

Posted on December 1, 2020

Englewood Health, Jewish Federation of Northern New Jersey Host Virtual Movie Screening and Discussion on Social Media

Posted on by John Williams
LIKE documentary banner

Englewood Health recently partnered with the Jewish Federation of Northern New Jersey to bring to life a discussion on the monumental impact social media has on our lives. On Wednesday, November 18 the two organizations held a virtual screening of “LIKE,” a documentary that explores how social media has become ingrained in the daily routines of both children and adults. Audience members—over 300 community members—were invited to submit questions for a panel discussion following the film.

The goal of the event, presented by The Gregory P. Shadek Behavioral Care Center at Englewood Health through the generous gift from Andrea and Neil Strahl, was to help address behavioral and mental health concerns, as well as provide a resource for parents and children to consider together. The film offers a chance to reflect on the issues and challenges of social media.

“LIKE looks at how we use social media, how it’s marketed to us, and how it affects us socially, emotionally, and behaviorally. The intent is for us to think about how we use social media, and what changes we can make in our lives to prevent isolation, anxiety, depression, and the symptoms and conditions that can be exacerbated by excessive use of social media.”

Danielle Lambert, LCSW, behavioral health manager at Englewood Health

Jennifer Yanowitz, LSW, strategic program manager at Englewood Health, explains that the film can “start a conversion about what the values are for our families, and what we can do about what we see happening.” An important message, it’s one that will be beneficial to all as we approach the season of family gatherings, amidst a pandemic.

Posted on November 25, 2020

Englewood Health Nurse Recognized as March of Dimes Nurse of the Year

Posted on by Lauren Weaver

November 17, 2020 — Englewood Health neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) nurse Susan Maher-Dziemian, BSN, RNC-LRN, received an award in the Women and Children’s Health category at the March of Dimes Virtual Nurse of the Year Awards Wednesday evening.

The Nurse of the Year Awards event and fundraiser brings people together from the healthcare community each year to recognize nursing excellence and achievements in research, education, quality patient care, innovation, and leadership. Nurses can be nominated by peers, nurse managers, supervisors, or families they have impacted.

Susan has been a nurse at Englewood Health for 38 years and specializes in the care of newborns and families, as well as in perinatal bereavement support.

“Susan is incredibly dedicated to caring for our newborns and their families,” said Valerie French, senior director of maternal child health at Englewood Health. “She has been a maternal-child nurse for many years and always stays current with what is going on in neonatal care. Susan consistently brings new ideas and innovations to the department.”

More than 250 nurses were nominated for this year’s Nurse of the Year Awards, across 14 unique categories. Applications were then reviewed and scored by nurse leaders throughout the healthcare community. Through this competitive process, 80 finalists were selected, including NICU care manager Mary De Ritter, MSN, RN, CNL in Women and Children’s Health, and nurse manager of labor and delivery and pediatrics, Mary Ellen Garrity, MSN, RNC-MNN in the Nurse Manager category, also representing Englewood Health.

Englewood Health’s maternity services—including specialized education and support classes, nutritional support, and access to advanced medical care and neonatal intensive care unit—help make the experience of giving birth the best it can be by prioritizing patient safety and quality care.

For Men with Enlarged Prostate, Englewood Health Urologists Offers Minimally Invasive Solution

Posted on by Lauren Weaver

Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), or an enlarged prostate, can restrict urine flow and sometimes cause complications such as urinary retention, infection, or kidney issues in men 50 years of age and older. Medication is often the primary choice of treatment among these patients, but some patients do not respond, have side effects, or are not interested in taking medications.

Englewood Health’s renowned team of urologists specializes in the treatment of benign prostatic hyperplasia, among other urologic conditions including cancer, kidney stones, diseases of the prostate, bladder, and kidneys, and other general urology disorders.

To treat BPH, the team offers several treatment options including the UroLift System, a minimally invasive option that provides an alternative to tissue-removal surgery with fewer side effects.

“We are continuously innovating and advancing our treatment options available to patients,” said Dr. Maz Ganat, program director of urologic oncology at The Lefcourt Family Cancer Treatment and Wellness Center. “UroLift is a less invasive option with a quicker recovery time and very few side effects when performed in appropriate men. In most cases patients can go home the same day they have the procedure.”

With the use of the latest technology, including minimally invasive and surgical robotic techniques and MRI-ultrasound fusion-guided prostate biopsy, the urology team at Englewood Health works collaboratively with each patient to determine the care plan that is right for them, to provide thoughtful and thorough care, and to ensure the best possible outcomes.

To learn more or schedule an appointment with a urologist, call 201-608-2849.

Posted on November 3, 2020

Class on Preparing for Breast Cancer Surgery Marks One Year Supporting Patients

Posted on by Lauren Weaver

A breast cancer diagnosis can be frightening. Englewood Health is helping to make patients feel more comfortable by offering a free class that walks them through the breast cancer surgery and recuperation period. Now celebrating its one-year mark, Englewood Health’s Prepare for Breast Cancer Surgery class is a collaboration among the hospital’s breast cancer surgery, rehabilitation, and patient navigation teams.

“For women newly diagnosed with breast cancer, it can be a very scary time in their lives,” says Pat LoPinto, APN, a nurse practitioner with Englewood Health’s breast surgery program. “By participating in the class, patients begin to understand what to expect, which makes them feel more in control and therefore more comfortable. Ultimately, it helps to improve patient care.” 

She adds, “The class prepares patients and their families for all aspects of breast cancer surgery and recovery, including temporary restrictions, practical limitations, and caring for oneself at home after partial mastectomy, mastectomy, or breast reconstruction. We try to assure patients that they will get through this, while encouraging them to adhere to the recommended guidelines.”

The idea for the Prepare for Breast Cancer Surgery program sprang from Englewood Health’s rehabilitation team. “During the class,” says occupational therapist Erin Ingoglia, OTR/L, “we talk patients through all aspects of surgery—whom they will see, follow-up care, things to be aware of, resources, and more. The class helps reduce their anxiety about their upcoming surgery.”

Prior to breast cancer surgery, many Englewood Health patients have a physical or occupational therapy evaluation to address issues that might affect them post-surgically, such as posture, or limitations in strength or range of motion. After surgery, outpatient physical or occupational therapy can help patients to build strength, increase range of motion, and improve quality of life. During the class, Englewood Health’s rehabilitation team discusses signs and symptoms of potential surgical side effects, such as lymphedema (swelling due to build-up of lymph fluid in the body that can be caused by cancer or cancer treatment), and steps to take to prevent the condition or minimize its severity.

“The class,” says oncology patient navigator Cathy Verhulst, MS, LCSW, “is designed to increase knowledge, decrease fears, and elevate a person’s readiness for breast cancer surgery. Most important, we want patients to know that we are here for them. They can pick up the phone and call the team with questions, for guidance, or if they need support.”

During the class, Verhulst offers practical suggestions for the recuperation period on such topics as setting up a healing space; taking care of children and answering their questions; grocery shopping; transportation to doctors’ appointments; applying for disability coverage; community resources; and, most notably, taking time to breathe (in and out, she emphasizes).

The one-hour Prepare for Breast Cancer Surgery class is offered monthly, and participants are encouraged to bring a family member or friend. Its first year has been remarkably successful, with participants reporting that it helped them feel more relaxed about their approaching surgery.

The team is also producing an online version of the class. The Prepare for Breast Cancer Surgery video will be available through Englewood Health’s website. Breast cancer patients and their families will soon be able to access the class at home, or wherever they choose, at a time most convenient for them.

For more information, contact the breast cancer surgery program at 201-894-3893 or the cancer center at 201-608-2266.

The Englewood Health breast surgical services team
The Englewood Health breast surgical services team

About Breast Surgery at Englewood Health

Our team of renowned and expert surgeons diagnoses and treats breast disease and disorders and offers surgical diagnostic procedures and treatments. Working hand in hand with other specialists, we take a comprehensive approach to provide patients with a sense of clarity, calmness and reassurance that they are getting the best possible care. During the current COVID-19 pandemic, we remind our community that we are here to care for you in a safe environment. We are limiting the number of patients in our offices at one time and, when possible, offering video visits.

Major Areas of Expertise

  • Benign and malignant breast diseases
  • High risk patients – BRCA positive, atypical pathology
  • Hidden scar surgery
  • Oncoplastic reconstruction
  • Nipple sparing mastectomies
  • Breast reconstruction – implants and DIEP flaps

Posted on November 3, 2020

Englewood Health’s New Dental Residency Program Meets Community Need for Affordable General Dentistry Services

Posted on by John Williams

November 3, 2020 — Englewood Health has launched a dental residency program for newly graduated dentists. Accredited by the Commission of Dental Accreditation, the one-year general dentistry residency offers residents supervised hands-on training, instruction, and clinical rotations in both inpatient and outpatient settings, while providing patients with both surgical and restorative services. Upon completion of the program, dental residents are prepared to provide oral health care independently in the community for a wide range of patients.

“This is an important and much-needed service for our community,” says John Minichetti, DMD, chief of dentistry at Englewood Health and program director of the Dental Residency Program. “In addition to training the next generation of dentists, our new dental clinic offers patients top-notch care, provided by well-trained residents under the supervision of highly regarded dentists from our community, regardless of income.”

Training Program for New Dentists

Launched in September, the dental residency program accepts three dental residents each year, with one resident continuing for a second year as program facilitator. Each of Englewood Health’s dental residents has completed a four-year dental school program, graduating with a Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) or Doctor of Medical Dentistry (DMD) degree. The program is supervised and taught by a volunteer faculty of 16 private-practice dentists from throughout northern New Jersey.

As part of their training, residents complete clinical rotations through Englewood Hospital’s anesthesia, emergency medicine, internal medicine, pathology, and radiology departments, as well as a rotation at the oral maxillofacial surgery trauma center at St. Joseph’s University Medical Center in Paterson, where they participate in multidisciplinary care.

In addition to general dentistry training, the program provides the dental residents with a one-year, 300-hour implantology course, given on weekends, where they learn to perform implant surgery and prosthetic rehabilitation.

Dental Clinic for Underserved Patients in the Englewood Community

A newly established outpatient dental clinic, located at North Hudson Community Action Corporation (a federally qualified health center) on South Van Brunt Street in Englewood, staffed by the dental residents and supervised by the faculty members, is open for appointments Monday through Friday. The facility has four treatment rooms and state-of-the-art equipment, including an advanced CTCB scanner and digital imaging. The dental clinic provides:

  • a full range of general dentistry services
  • availability to everyone in the community, based on need
  • safe care for medically compromised patients
  • consultative services for Englewood Hospital patients, including inpatient medical and surgical, radiation oncology, cardiology, and emergency medicine

Services offered in the outpatient dental clinic include:

  • oral examinations
  • cleanings
  • extractions
  • root canals
  • crowns
  • implants
  • dentures
  • operating room dentistry for patients who are dentophobia, medically compromised patients, special needs patients, and some pediatric patients
  • pediatric dentistry
  • specialized care for patients with special needs, including autism spectrum disorder

In addition to outpatient services, Englewood Health’s Department of Dentistry now provides hospital inpatient consultations and care for toothache, broken dentures, and other conditions. Consultative services are provided by dentistry residents under the supervision of attending dentists, including in radiation oncology, cardiology, and emergency medicine.

“Dental health is intrinsic to overall health and well-being,” says Dr. Minichetti. “Our team is restoring patients’ oral health by eliminating pain, enabling them to eat properly and more nutritiously, and improving their appearance—all of which ultimately can impact socialization, job opportunities, and overall functioning in society.”

He adds, “Prevention is essential. Dental conditions such as gum disease can lead to tooth loss and jawbone deterioration; they can also be a risk factor for heart and systemic disease. A history of smoking can lead to oral cancers that might go unidentified. It’s important not to neglect one’s teeth and gums.”

“With the dental residency program, new dentists gain experience in both inpatient and outpatient settings and, as a health care system, we ensure that everyone in our community has access to high-quality, affordable dental care.”

For more information on Englewood Health’s Dental Clinic, call 201-537-4442.

Acupuncture at The Graf Center for Integrative Medicine

Posted on by Anthony Figueroa

The Graf Center for Integrative Medicine offers acupuncture as a form of treatment for various ailments. In this video, acupuncturist Carleen Implicito answers questions about acupuncture and its benefits. The body has various acupuncture points, each of which have specific amounts of energy or “qi”. When an acupuncturist needles the different points, they are releasing the “qi” which can have various positive effects.

By watching the video, you’ll learn more about how acupuncture can be used to:

  • Help reduce inflammation in areas of the body such as the shoulder, back, and knees
  • Assist women aiming to reduce symptoms of menopause, may not want to use hormone therapy or need help with infertility
  • Aid those dealing with headaches, migraines, stress and/or anxiety
  • Benefit athletes who need help to decrease pain during exercise routines, improve injury recovery time, increase energy levels, and much more

Posted on November 2, 2020

Englewood Health Receives Accreditation for Emergency Medical Services

Posted on by John Williams
Englewood Health Ambulance

October 27, 2020 — Englewood Health has received reaccreditation from the Commission on Accreditation of Ambulance Services (CAAS) for its compliance with national standards of excellence. Earning this distinction makes the hospital’s ambulance service one of less than 200 of approximately 21,000 licensed agencies in the country to do so.

The certification was received upon successful completion of the first-ever virtual site visit to be performed by CAAS, which included a review by national experts in emergency medical services (EMS).

“This is a highly-prized recognition representing our firm commitment to our patients and community,” said Richard Sposa, director of emergency medical services at Englewood Health. “We continuously strive to do our best, and this accreditation is another step toward excellence.”

“All the members of our team have been vital to our successful completion of the process,” said Dr. Barbara Schreibman, medical director of emergency medical services at Englewood Health. “There’s a great feeling of pride and prestige working in an accredited ambulance service. Everyone played a valuable role in our ability to meet the commission’s high standards.”

The Commission is a non-profit organization established to encourage and promote quality patient care in the country’s medical transportation system. This is accomplished by establishing national standards—often exceeding state or local licensing requirements—which address not only the delivery of patient care, but also the ambulance service’s total operation and its relationships with other agencies, the general public, and the medical community.

Six-Minute Meditation Fix

Posted on by John Williams
Meditation with Jennifer Graf

Jennifer Graf, LCSW, guides you through three short audio meditation sessions. Spend just six minutes in the morning, another six during the day, and a final six before bedtime. This series, part of the Rodgers Family Meditation Program at the Graf Center for Integrative Medicine, can help relax the body, build resistance to stress, lower blood pressure, assist with pain management and anxiety or depression, and improve mental clarity. Music: Ray Ippolito.

Morning

Daytime

Evening

Posted on October 27, 2020