orlandohealth

Elite High School Track and Field Athletes Prepare to Gather in Orlando

5/15/2012 12:00:00 AM

Orlando, Fla (May 14, 2012) – Memorial Day weekend in Orlando means it’s time for some of the country’s elite high school track and field athletes to gather and compete at the 36th Annual Golden South Classic presented by adidas®.

Athletes and coaches are encouraged to register early for the competition by visiting www.goldensouth.com. The early-bird registration rate of $25 per athlete, which includes participation in an unlimited number of events, expires Monday, May 21. Competition will take place Saturday, May 26 at the Payne Stewart Athletic Complex/Warden Stadium at The First Academy in Orlando. The competition benefits the Pediatric Sports Medicine Program at Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children.

The Golden South Classic is one of the country’s premier post-season high school track and field competitions. It consistently attracts athletes from around the nation and beyond. Since its inception as a local event in 1976, more than 30 former Golden South participants have gone on to become U.S. Olympians.

The event has been named one of three meets in the prestigious adidas® Golden Stripes series, which means winners in the men’s and women’s mile and 100-meter races will be invited to compete in the adidas® Dream Mile and Dream 100, where the top high school milers and sprinters from around the country will gather in New York City this summer for a race to determine the nation’s fastest.

For more information, including athlete commitments, directions, and schedule, please visit: www.goldensouth.com.

Media interested in attending and covering the Golden South Classic on Saturday, May 26 should contact:

Geo Morales
407-484-8533
Geo.morales@orlandohealth.com

Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children
Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children, supported by the Arnold Palmer Medical Center Foundation, is a 158-bed facility dedicated exclusively to the needs of children. Located in Orlando, Arnold Palmer Hospital provides expertise in pediatric specialties such as cardiac care, craniomaxillofacial surgery, emergency and trauma care, gastroenterology, nephrology, neurology, oncology, orthopedics, pulmonology and sports medicine. Visit www.arnoldpalmerhospital.com to learn more about all of our specialties.

Personal Physician to the Dalai Lama Visits MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando

5/8/2012 12:00:00 AM

What:	Dr. Barry Kerzin, MD, personal physician to the Dalai Lama toured MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando today as part of a visit to the Central Florida area. Dr. Kerzin is a Western-trained physician who, through an unusal path, became a Buddhist monk and now embodies the union of Eastern and Western traditions of healing. On his tour of MD Anderson Orlando he met with patients and employees and shared his take on the practice of medicine and his experiences working with the Dalai Lama. Dr. Kerzin found his way to India 20 years ago. He continues to practice medicine and moves fluidly between the Western and Eastern traditions.
When:	Monday, May 7 11:30am – 12:30pm
Where:	MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando 1400 S. Orange Ave., Orlando, FL 32806

Larry the Cable Guy, Orlando Health Open Hip and Orthopedic Institute

5/2/2012 12:00:00 AM

Orlando, FL (May 1, 2012) - Larry the Cable Guy, whose real name is Dan Whitney, was on hand at Orlando Health to open the Wyatt Whitney Hip & Orthopedic Institute.

The Wyatt Whitney Institute, which is named after the comedian's five-year-old son, houses a number of specialists and resources dedicated to the treatment of hip and orthopedic conditions. It will emphasize collaboration between physicians and their teams to provide patients seamless, comprehensive orthopedic care from infancy through adulthood. Patients at the institute will have access to advanced pediatric and adult orthopedic services, sports medicine, physical rehabilitation services, and state-of-the-art imaging, along with research and educational resources to enhance their experience.

Development of the Wyatt Whitney Institute is possible because of the generosity of Larry the Cable Guy. Nearly two years ago, he and his family donated $5 million through the Git-R-Done Foundation to help fund development of the institute.

"We're very appreciative of the generosity and optimism the Whitneys have shown in turning their son's experience with hip dysplasia into an opportunity to help others," states John Bozard, president of Arnold Palmer Medical Center and the Orlando Health Foundation. "Their gift will go a long way towards ensuring that we have the capability to help others do things like walk or run without pain or discomfort."

Wyatt Whitney was born with hip dysplasia, meaning that the bones of the hip joint are not aligned correctly. It's a condition that affects thousands of children and adults each year, and when it was first discovered in Wyatt, very little information about hip dysplasia was available anywhere.

That's when the Whitneys began their search for answers and found Charles Price, MD, of the department of pediatric orthopedics at Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children and one of the world's leading experts in hip dysplasia.

With help from Dr. Price, Wyatt successfully completed treatment for his hip dysplasia. The gift from the Whitneys allowed Price to work with other hip dysplasia experts around the world to develop the International Hip Dysplasia Institute (IHDI) as a source of information and guidance to families affected by the condition. IHDI also serves as a resource for medical professionals worldwide. It includes leading orthopedists working to develop better methods of detection, prevention and treatment of hip dysplasia.

In addition to housing IHDI, the Wyatt Whitney Institute is home to Level One Orthopedics, Orlando's premier academic orthopedic center, where world-class orthopedic surgeons will continue their tradition of exemplary patient care, research, and education of the next generation of orthopedic surgeons.

"When we learned Wyatt had hip dysplasia as a baby, it was very difficult to find any good sources of information on his condition and it frustrated us that so little was being done to help kids like him," stated Larry. "We were fortunate to find Dr. Price and get Wyatt the treatment he needed. It also created an opportunity for my wife and me to make a real difference in the lives of other people."

Larry and the Git-R-Done Foundation continue to support Orlando Health with the annual "Git-R-Done Celebrity Golf Classic" held in Orlando. The two-day golf event features Larry and his celebrity friends raising money for The International Hip Dysplasia Institute. This year's event is scheduled for November 4 -5.

To arrange an appointment at the Wyatt Whitney Institute, patients should call 321-843-DOCS.

About the Git R Done Foundation
The Git-R-Done Foundation is a 501(c) (3) non-profit organization established by Larry the Cable Guy and his wife, Cara, as a focal point for the family's philanthropy in 2009. The foundation's mission is to provide assistance to charitable organizations that have experienced hardships beyond their control, with an emphasis on children and veterans. The Git-R-Done Foundation has made numerous donations, including donations to the Arnold Palmer Medical Center Foundation for the treatment and cure of hip dysplasia, Madonna Rehabilitation Hospital and Operation Homefront. For information or to donate, visit www.gitrdonefoundation.org

About the International Hip Dysplasia Institute
The International Hip Dysplasia Institute (IHDI) is a collaborative, international, not-for-profit effort to improve the health and quality of life of those affected by hip dysplasia. Arnold Palmer Medical Center is leading several academic medical centers around the world to promote prevention, diagnosis, treatment, and research for hip dysplasia. Another goal is to provide education to patients, families, and physicians as the most comprehensive and reliable resource for knowledge about hip dysplasia in its various forms. This international collaborative effort was made possible by a generous gift from Larry the Cable Guy and his family.

About Orlando Health
Orlando Health is a $1.9 billion not-for-profit health care organization and a community-based network of hospitals and care centers throughout Central Florida. The organization, which includes the area's only Level One Trauma Centers for adults and pediatrics, is a statutory teaching hospital system that offers both specialty and community hospitals. They are: Orlando Regional Medical Center; Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children; Winnie Palmer Hospital for Women & Babies; Dr. P. Phillips Hospital; South Seminole Hospital; Health Central Hospital, South Lake Hospital (50 percent affiliation); St. Cloud Regional Medical Center (20 percent affiliation) and MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando - the first affiliate of one of the nation's premier cancer centers, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center in Houston. Orlando Health's areas of clinical excellence are heart and vascular, cancer care, neurosciences, surgery, pediatric orthopedics and sports medicine, neonatology, and obstetrics and gynecology.

Orlando Health is one of Central Florida's largest employers with nearly 16,000 employees and more than 2,500 affiliated physicians supporting our philosophy of providing high quality care and service that revolves around patients' needs. We prove this everyday with over 110,000 inpatient admissions and nearly 690,000 outpatient visits each year. In all, Orlando Health serves 1.6 million Central Florida residents and nearly 3,000 international patients annually. Additionally, Orlando Health provides approximately $239 million in support of community health needs. More information can be found at www.orlandohealth.com.

ORMC Hosts Groundbreaking Ceremony for Redesign and Renovation Project

4/26/2012 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, Fla. (April 26, 2012) --- Today, Orlando Regional Medical Center team members were joined by community leaders and government officials for a groundbreaking ceremony for the hospital’s Redesign and Renovation Project.

The Redesign and Renovation Project, ORMC’s latest community investment, includes constructing a new patient bed tower and increasing the size of the Emergency Department. Additional project plans include increasing the size of and renovating existing cardiovascular, surgical, critical care, pharmacy and laboratory areas.

“Not only are we breaking ground on the Redesign and Renovation Project, we are breaking ground on a new model of care,” said Sherrie Sitarik, president/CEO, Orlando Health. “Beyond the physical construction aspects, the ORMC Redesign and Renovation Project is a part of this transition and is key to changing the way we care for patients.”

The “bricks and mortar” phase of the Redesign and Renovation Project allows the hospital to consolidate services and bring together the people, places, technology and other components necessary to foster the environment needed to truly put patients first.

For example, as part of the new approach to patient care the hospital is bringing together doctors, surgeons and clinical staff to provide advanced diagnostic services, the latest surgical and non-surgical treatment options, comprehensive education and innovative research in a more streamlined and efficient way.

The Redesign and Renovation Project creates a more centralized downtown campus to foster the new patient experience, including greater accessibility to clinical experts, more coordinated and collaborated care, advanced diagnostics and more timely results.

A component of the Redesign and Renovation Project is closing the Lucerne Pavilion and transferring inpatient care to ORMC. This consolidation will result in better service for patients and greatly improve efficiency and cost savings for the organization. The Annex area of the Lucerne Pavilion will remain open. The Annex area includes inpatient rehabilitation services.

The 190+ bed, 10-story tall tower will be 345,000 square feet in size. The Redesign and Renovation Project, at an estimated cost of $297 million, represents one of the largest and most significant projects in the organization’s history.

“The tower itself is not an expansion, rather a consolidation of our inpatient beds,” said Shannon Elswick, president, Adult Hospitals Group. “The consolidation will greatly improve efficiency and cost savings for the organization. The efficiencies and cost savings from no longer operating two facilities represent millions of dollars of potential savings per year. For example, the cost of transporting patients between ORMC and the Lucerne Pavilion is about $2 million per year; eliminating the need is a financial savings to the hospital and an invaluable service enhancement to patients.”

The ORMC Redesign and Renovation Project is one of several recent Orlando Health downtown campus patient care enhancements including the Orlando Health Heart Institute which opened November 2011, a new replacement parking garage that opened December 2010, and a new MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando Breast Cancer Survivorship Clinic that opened in March 2009.

About Orlando Health

Orlando Health is a $1.9 billion not-for-profit health care organization and a community-based network of hospitals and care centers in the Orlando region. The organization, which includes the area’s only Level One Trauma Centers for adults and pediatrics, is a statutory teaching hospital system that offers both specialty and community hospitals. They are: Orlando Regional Medical Center; Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children; Winnie Palmer Hospital for Women & Babies; Dr. P. Phillips Hospital; South Seminole Hospital; Health Central, South Lake Hospital (50 percent affiliation); St. Cloud Regional Medical Center (20 percent affiliation) and MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando – the first affiliate of one of the nation’s premier cancer centers, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center in Houston. Orlando Health’s areas of clinical excellence are heart and vascular, cancer care, neurosciences, surgery, pediatric orthopedics and sports medicine, neonatology, and obstetrics and gynecology.

Orlando Health is one of Central Florida’s largest employers with nearly 16,000 employees and more than 2,500 affiliated physicians supporting our philosophy of providing high quality care and service that revolves around patients’ needs. We prove this everyday with over 110,000 inpatient admissions and nearly 690,000 outpatient visits each year. In all, Orlando Health serves 1.6 million Central Florida residents and nearly 3,000 international patients annually. Additionally, Orlando Health provides approximately $239 million in support of community health needs. More information can be found at www.orlandohealth.com.

Orlando Health Pet Therapy Program Making a Difference For Our Patients

4/25/2012 12:00:00 AM

The Pet Therapy program at Orlando Health brings hope, healing and a calming presence to our patients via "furry" professionals. Our pet therapy teams consisting of canines and their owners provide our patients, their families and guests with an opportunity to connect with a loving and comforting animal, sometimes right at their bedside. The non-verbal communication between a dog and a patient is something very unique and special. With our certified and trained pet therapy teams, we are able to reach patients during difficult times and in difficult situations. Meet some of our "furry angels" who are making a difference everyday at the hospitals of Orlando Health.

PGA TOUR Golfers Brian Davis, Hunter Mahan Donate Winnings to Arnold Palmer Medical Center

4/17/2012 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, FLA (April 16, 2012) – Two more PGA Tour golfers are being added to the list of professional athletes who have made donations to Arnold Palmer Medical Center.

Golfer Brian Davis and his family continued their long-standing support of Arnold Palmer Medical Center today, donating $52,393 – one-quarter of his winnings from the 2012 Arnold Palmer Invitational Presented by MasterCard – to Arnold Palmer Medical Center in Orlando.

Brian finished the four rounds of March’s PGA TOUR event at Arnold Palmer’s Bay Hill Club & Lodge at 5-under-par, in a tie for 4th place, and collected a $209,571.43 paycheck.

Today, as a thank you to Palmer for Brian's invitation to the tournament, and in support of the hospitals bearing Palmer’s name, Brian delivered one-quarter of that money to Arnold Palmer Medical Center. One-half of the funds will be directed the expansion of the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) at Winnie Palmer Hospital for Women & Babies; the other half will support the Hewell Kids’ Kidney Center at Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children.

“Arnold Palmer Medical Center has been so critical to our family, and has literally saved the lives of my children,” said Davis, whose three children – Oliver, Henry, and Madeleine –have each needed medical service provided by Arnold Palmer Medical Center. “Giving back is a no-brainer for us. Mr. Palmer’s generosity made those hospitals possible, and it’s up to us a members of the community, and especially as professional golfers, to help support Mr. Palmer’s legacy of caring and philanthropy.”

Davis is not alone in his support of the work done at Arnold Palmer Medical Center.

Hunter Mahan, one of Davis’ colleagues on the PGA Tour and currently ranked fifth on the Official World Golf Ranking, designated a $30,000 gift to the NICU in the name of Kieran Foley.

Kieran is the son of Mahan’s coach, Sean Foley, and was born in the summer of 2011 with a congenital diaphragmatic hernia, an abnormal opening that can allow abdominal organs to move into the chest cavity. The condition forced the newborn and his family to spend several tense days in the NICU at Winnie Palmer Hospital, and then four days into life, Kieran underwent surgery. Doctors corrected the problem in 22 minutes, and he mended for a few more days in the NICU.

Since that time, the Foleys have been grateful supporters of the life-changing work of the medical team at Winnie Palmer Hospital.

Mahan responded by directing The Presidents Cup 2011 charitable donation to the hospital. The contribution is a portion of the charitable proceeds generated from The Presidents Cup 2011 at Royal Melbourne Golf Club in Melbourne, Australia, in which Mahan participated as a member of the victorious U.S. Team for the third time in his career.

The Presidents Cup is a unique golf event in that there is no purse or prize money. Players are not personally paid for their participation; instead, each competitor, captain, and captain’s assistant allocates their portion of the proceeds to chosen charitable causes. The NICU at Winnie Palmer Hospital was one of five organizations chosen by Mahan.

Orlando Health Unveils New In-Patient Care System

4/16/2012 12:00:00 AM

Orlando, FL (April 16, 2012) – Orlando Health is introducing a new in-patient care system at Orlando Regional Medical Center beginning May 1, 2012. The new model will increase the amount of time hospital-based doctors -- known in the medical profession as ‘hospitalists’-- spend with patients inside the hospital and their families. The new approach is aimed at improving patient care by enhancing the communication and collaboration between hospitalists and patients’ primary care physicians and specialists.

“Doing what is best for our patients is at the heart of the change to our hospitalist program,” said Sherrie Sitarik, president and CEO, Orlando Health. “This new delivery model promotes optimal patient care, and it is an essential element in our mission to transform our systems, operations and programs so that everything we do revolves around patients’ needs.”

The program is part of Orlando Health’s patient focused strategy introduced by Mrs. Sitarik in January, 2010. The strategy is a multi-year undertaking aimed at transforming the model of care across the organization. The goal is better integration of clinical care for patients and increased collaboration between medical staff and physicians so that patient care is seamless, more effective and efficient. Orlando Health expects the new approach will improve patient outcomes and satisfaction.

With the new model, hospitalists will be responsible for fewer patients. There will be a comprehensive hand off between care providers, including patients transferring from one level of care to another, such as from the intensive care unit to the step-down unit. Hospitalists will be continually on site 24 hours a day, seven days a week allowing patients and families the benefit of improved access and availability as well as enhanced communication and continuity of care. Hospitalists will also be actively involved in quality care processes. A pilot of the new in-patient model launched at Orlando Health’s Dr. P. Phillips Hospital in December, 2010. The program was implemented last fall at South Seminole Hospital. Both programs have received very positive reviews from local physicians who interact with the new hospitalists teams at Orlando Health facilities.

"One of the challenges facing physicians and patients alike in recent years has been the fragmentation and loss of continuity of care between the doctor's office and hospital settings. The new hospitalist program at South Seminole Hospital has significantly improved consistency of care and flow of information for our patients," said Martin Derrow, MD, Chief of Internal Medicine for Physician Associates.

The exclusive arrangement features hospitalists who are all employed by Orlando Health, which has tremendous benefits to patients. As employed physicians, they receive the support and resources that a large organization can provide, thereby freeing them from administrative and operational pressures. This allows physicians to more closely concentrate on patient care.

“This new approach continues to honor the relationship patients have with their primary care physicians and specialists,” said Wayne Jenkins, MD, president Orlando Health Physician Partners and senior vice president, Orlando Health. “Primary care physicians may still personally admit and manage the care of their private patients at Orlando Health hospitals, if they so choose. Orlando Health’s hospitalist program is just another option for primary care physicians that has been shown to be effective in many other markets across the nation.”

Exclusive practice agreements for hospital-based physicians are standard in the healthcare industry. Experience has shown that exclusive hospital-based providers - ranging from anesthesiologists to emergency medicine practices to pathologists – create stronger alignments and better continuity of care within a hospital setting. Orlando Health’s new hospitalist model builds on that experience and goes one step further by ensuring physicians are provided with resources and support to help them deliver exceptional care to patients.

About Orlando Health

Patients’ own stem cells may preserve heart muscle function after a heart attack

4/11/2012 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, Fla. (April 11, 2012) --- Stem cells from the pelvic bone may help hearts beat stronger. Doctors and other clinicians at the Orlando Health Heart Institute are researching the use of stem cells from pelvic bone marrow to restore tissue and improve heart function after muscle damage from heart attacks.

“The thought is the body may use itself to heal itself,” said Vijaykumar S. Kasi, MD, PhD, an interventional cardiologist, director, Cardiovascular Research, and principal investigator for the clinical trial at ORMC. “Because stem cells are immature cells they have the potential to develop into new blood vessels and preserve cardiac muscle cells. By infusing certain stem cells into the area of the heart muscle that has been damaged from a heart attack, tissue can be preserved and heart function restored.”

The PreSERVE-AMI Study, sponsored by Amorcyte, LLC, a NeoStem, Inc. company (NYSE Amex: NBS), is for patients who have received a stent to open the blocked artery after a specific heart attack history (in part a ST-Segment Elevation Myocardial Infarction, or STEMI, a critical type of heart attack caused by a prolonged period of blocked blood supply, affecting a large area of the heart muscle and causing changes in the blood levels of key chemical markers). The study evaluates the effectiveness and safety of infusing stem cells collected from a patient’s bone marrow into the artery in the heart that may have caused the heart attack. About 160 patients will participate in this national study at approximately 34 sites.

The infusion procedure begins with a catheter inserted through an incision in the groin. An X-ray camera is used to guide doctors in positioning the catheter in the heart artery where the stent was placed. A balloon is inflated within the stent and the infusion takes place in the area impacted by the heart attack. Because the study is randomized, double blinded and placebo controlled, patients are infused with either AMR-001, a cell therapy product comprised of stem cells taken from one’s own bone marrow, or a placebo (inactive substance).

Prior to the infusion, patients are screened using various assessments including an electrocardiogram, a cardiac MRI (magnetic resonance image) and a cardiac nuclear test. After the necessary screenings, patients have a mini-bone marrow procedure where the stem cells are “harvested” (removed) from the bone marrow in their pelvic bone, using a special needle. The stem cells are processed at Progenitor Cell Therapy, another NeoStem, Inc. company, in preparation for infusion. Patients who are randomized to placebo will have their bone marrow frozen and stored and available to them for clinical use, should they require bone marrow for any reason.

“We are excited to participate in innovative clinical trials as part of our continued efforts to play a vital role in future solutions to improve patient outcomes,” said Dr. Kasi. “Heart disease remains the No.1 killer of men and women in our country.”

Effective treatment options are part of the medical journey to more heart healthy communities locally and globally.

“Severe heart failure, often the end result of large or multiple heart attacks, is a major health care challenge, impacting more than five million people in the United States and costing more than $35 billion annually,” said Dr. Kasi. “Stem cell therapy is part of the movement from treatment to cure and has the potential to overcome limitations and expenses of heart transplants and offers hope for patients who are desperately praying for another chance at life.”

For more information on the trial please visit www.neostem.com.

About Orlando Health

Arnold Palmer Hospital Reaches Highest Level in Epilepsy Treatment

4/9/2012 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, Fla. (April 9, 2012) – Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children has been named a Level-4 Epilepsy Center – the highest designation available for the treatment of epilepsy. The designation ismade by the National Association of Epilepsy Centers (NAEC) to evaluate the appropriateness and quality of specialized epilepsy care.

Accordingto NAEC, a fourth-level center should provide the more complex forms of intensive neurodiagnostics monitoring, as well as more extensive medical, neuropsychological, and psychosocial treatment. Fourth-level centers also offer a complete evaluation for epilepsy surgery, including intracranial electrodes, and provide a broad range of surgical procedures for epilepsy.

In treating epilepsy, the Neuroscience Institute at Arnold Palmer Hospital offers patients and families access to an interdisciplinary approach, featuring experienced physicians, surgeons, epileptologists, neuropsychologists, and neuroradiologists. The team provides patients a full spectrum of treatment options for epilepsy, from non-surgical options including ketogenic diet to advanced surgical treatments.

“Effectively treating patients with severe epilepsy and chronic seizures requires an extraordinary amount of resources,” stated Ron Davis, MD, co-medical directorof the epilepsy program at Arnold Palmer Hospital. “Few places around thecountry can offer epilepsy patients the level of care found at Arnold Palmer Hospital. This is a significant achievement for us and our community, andensures our patients can get top-quality treatment right in their backyard.”

ORMC Receives Chest Pain Center Accreditation with PCI

4/5/2012 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, Fla. (April 5, 2012) — Orlando Regional Medical Center (ORMC) recently received full accreditation with PCI from the Society of Chest Pain Centers, for the second time. Commonly known as angioplasty, a PCI, or percutaneous coronary intervention, is the preferred procedure to treat narrowed arteries in the heart during a heart attack. ORMC was the first Level One Trauma Center in Florida to receive this designation.

“Heart attacks remain the leading cause of death in our country, with 600,000 people dying each year, and chest pain is the leading cause of Emergency Department visits across the United States with more than five million visiting hospitals each year for chest pain,” said David Bello, MD, co-medical director, Chest Pain Center at ORMC and ORMC’s medical director of diagnostic cardiology. “Having the expertise, protocols and treatment options allows us to prevent deaths and improve patient outcomes by diagnosing and treating symptoms sooner, and increasing the accuracy and effectiveness of treatment.”

The Chest Pain Center’s protocols help reduce the time to treatment, known as “door-to-balloon time,” during the critical early stages of a heart attack, when treatments are most effective. The specialized approach also allows clinicians to monitor patients when it is not clear whether they are having a heart attack, helping make sure patients are not sent home too early or admitted unnecessarily.

“Our current average door-to-balloon time is 73 minutes, which is within the 90-minute door-to-balloon time recommended by the American College of Cardiology and American Heart Association,” said Sita Price, DNP, ARNP, FNP-BC, CHFN, Sr. Nurse Practitioner and coordinator, Chest Pain Center. “The accreditation represents collaboration from the time of the dispatch of emergency calls to first responders on the scene and from our emergency department and cath lab, and demonstrates our continued commitment to high standards of cardiac care.”

ORMC’s Chest Pain Center has processes are in place that meet strict criteria aimed at:

Reducing the time from onset of symptoms to diagnosis and treatment
Treating patients more quickly during the critical window of time when the integrity of the heart muscle can be preserved
Monitoring patients when it is not certain that they are having a heart attack to ensure that they are not sent home too quickly or needlessly admitted to the hospital

With the increase in the number of Chest Pain Centers came the need to establish standards designed to improve the consistency and quality of patient care. The Society’s accreditation process insures centers meet or exceed quality-of-care measures in emergency cardiac care.

About Orlando Health

Orlando Health is a $1.8 billion not-for-profit health care organization and a community-based network of hospitals and care centers in the Orlando region. The organization, which includes the area’s only Level One Trauma Centers for adults and pediatrics, is a statutory teaching hospital system that offers both specialty and community hospitals. They are: Orlando Regional Medical Center; Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children; Winnie Palmer Hospital for Women & Babies; Dr. P. Phillips Hospital; South Seminole Hospital; Health Central, South Lake Hospital (50 percent partnership); St. Cloud Regional Medical Center (20 percent partnership) and MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando – the first affiliate of one of the nation’s premier cancer centers, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center in Houston. Orlando Health’s areas of clinical excellence are heart and vascular, cancer care, neurosciences, surgery, pediatric orthopedics and sports medicine, neonatology, and obstetrics and gynecology.

Orlando Health completes acquisition of Health Central New Board of Directors announced

4/4/2012 12:00:00 AM

Orlando, FL (April 2, 2012) - Orlando Health's acquisition of Health Central is complete. The $181.3 million sale became effective Sunday, April 1, 2012.

The acquisition creates a wholly owned subsidiary named Orlando Health Central, Inc. that will continue to operate the hospital under the Health Central name. A 13-member board of directors consisting of representatives from Orlando Health and west Orange County has been formed to govern the new entity. The board includes 11 voting members and two non-voting members. Board members are:

Kathy Aber, a former member and officer of the West Orange Healthcare District Board of Trustees and staff writer for the West Orange Times newspaper
Ann Blakeslee, a former member of the West Orange Healthcare District Board of Trustees and Deputy Administrator/Comptroller of the Reedy Creek Improvement District
John Cappleman, MD (non-voting), a former member and officer of the West Orange Healthcare District Board of Trustees; Board Certified - Internal Medicine
Becky Cherney, former President/CEO of the Florida Healthcare Coalition
Samuel Davis, Jr., a member of the West Orange Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors and General Manager/CEO of the Lake Apopka Natural Gas District
Jamal Hakim, MD, Chief Quality/Transformation Officer, Orlando Health
Steve Harr, Senior Vice President Finance and Physician Services, Orlando Health
Randy June, a former member of the West Orange Healthcare District Board of Trustees and President of June Engineering
Carolyn Karraker (non-voting), a former member and officer of the West Orange Healthcare District Board of Trustees and adjunct professor at Valencia College
Michael Mercado, MD, a former member of the West Orange Healthcare District Board of Trustees; Board Certified - Family Medicine
Bob Miles, Senior Vice President Strategy/Innovation/Planning, Orlando Health
John Rinehart, a former member and officer of the Health Central Foundation Board of Directors and Vice President, Castle & Cooke Florida, LTD
Sherrie Sitarik, President and CEO, Orlando Health

"This is an exciting time for Orlando Health and the west Orange community," said Sherrie Sitarik, president and CEO, Orlando Health. "Our acquisition of Health Central will not only make the Orlando Health family stronger, but will enhance the quality and delivery of healthcare across our community."

Health Central will continue to operate much like it has in the past, with its own policies and procedures but it will now be guided by the leadership of Orlando Health. Shannon Elswick, president of Orlando Health's adult hospital group, will serve as Health Central's interim president until a new president is selected to lead the hospital.

The acquisition supports Orlando Health's efforts to change the model of care patients receive at its hospitals and facilities by increasing collaboration among physicians, better integrating clinical activities, enhancing quality outcomes and providing extraordinary care. With the purchase of Health Central, Orlando Health is better able to provide west Orange County residents with convenient access to services in their own community, while expanding the number of key services available. The acquisition also helps ensure the long-term financial strength of both organizations.

West Orange County residents and visitors to the Health Central campus will begin seeing changes that reflect the new ownership this week when several landmark signs will be wrapped with messages welcoming Health Central to the Orlando Health family.

About Orlando Health

Orlando Health is a $1.8 billion not-for-profit health care organization and a community-based network of hospitals and care centers in the Orlando region. The organization, which includes the area's only Level One Trauma Centers for adults and pediatrics, is a statutory teaching hospital system that offers both specialty and community hospitals. They are: Orlando Regional Medical Center; Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children; Winnie Palmer Hospital for Women & Babies; Dr. P. Phillips Hospital; South Seminole Hospital; Health Central, South Lake Hospital (50 percent partnership); St. Cloud Regional Medical Center (20 percent partnership) and MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando - the first affiliate of one of the nation's premier cancer centers, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center in Houston. Orlando Health's areas of clinical excellence are heart and vascular, cancer care, neurosciences, surgery, pediatric orthopedics and sports medicine, neonatology, and obstetrics and gynecology.

Orlando Health is one of Central Florida's largest employers with nearly 16,000 employees and more than 2,500 affiliated physicians, all of whom support our philosophy of providing high quality care and service that revolves around patients' needs. We prove this everyday with over 110,000 inpatient admissions and nearly 690,000 outpatient visits each year. In all, Orlando Health serves 1.6 million Central Florida residents and nearly 3,000 international patients annually. Additionally, Orlando Health provides approximately $239 million in support of community health needs. More information can be found at www.orlandohealth.com.

UF&Shands Florida Recovery Center opens location at Orlando Health’s South Seminole Hospital

4/3/2012 12:00:00 AM

Nationally recognized addiction treatment program based at the University of Florida brings new options to Central Florida

ORLANDO, Fla. (April 4, 2012) — The UF&Shands Florida Recovery Center, a nationally recognized academic and clinical research-driven addiction treatment program, will bring new treatment options to patients in Central Florida with a new location at the Orlando Health Behavioral Specialists practice at South Seminole Hospital. The FRC, based at the University of Florida, is rated by the Annenberg Foundation as one of the nation’s top three addiction programs and training sites.

Beginning in April, the new center, named UF&Shands Florida Recovery Center at Orlando Health, will serve as a destination for the evaluation and treatment of people facing alcohol and drug addiction.

The UF&Shands Florida Recovery Center at Orlando Health bridges the gap in outpatient services for people suffering with an addiction, who are receiving fragmented inpatient and outpatient services, or those who are leaving the Central Florida area to seek addiction treatment elsewhere.

“Addiction is both a national and local public health concern,” said Gilbert T. Tamakloe, MD, medical director, Behavioral Health Services, Orlando Health. “Additional outpatient services for addiction are a great need in our community. Although there are programs available, there are few programs that compare to the comprehensive approach the FRC provides to its patients. We are pleased that the Florida Recovery Center will join our health care organization in meeting our community’s growing needs.”

Orlando Health and UF&Shands look forward to offering the community a partnership in alcohol and drug addiction evaluations, inpatient and outpatient services and addiction intervention and treatment, officials said.

“It is an ideal scenario to bring a new, expert Florida Recovery Center team with special training and skills to Orlando Health, which is a state leader in so many other areas of medicine and surgery,” said Mark S. Gold, M.D., a professor and chairman of the department of psychiatry at UF. “We know from the calls for help that we receive that Orlando is an underserved area. Dr. Scott Teitelbaum, our division chief of addiction medicine, is the president of the Florida Society of Addiction Medicine and we know from his work that board-certified, fellowship-trained addiction physicians are very hard to find in the Orlando area.”

Timothy Huckaby, M.D., addiction medicine specialist, has been appointed as the medical director of the UF&Shands Florida Recovery Center at Orlando Health. He will evaluate patients, consult with physicians and healthcare professionals at South Seminole Hospital and others in the Central Florida community, and oversee an intensive outpatient program (IOP), a three- to six-week program that integrates patients back into their communities, families and work lives.

The IOP also consists of group meetings four nights a week for 12 to 16 weeks. The primary goal of the IOP is to help assist patients in their recovery from addiction and help integrate them back into living healthy lives.

Dr. Huckaby and his clinical team will examine some of the behaviors that have caused the patient to have difficulty in the past, and change those behaviors to establish and maintain a sober support system. The FRC team will provide family, couples and group counseling as well. The goal of the program is to help those in recovery effectively manage the social, spiritual, physical and emotional aspects of life to maintain a lifestyle of recovery.

The FRC team will work the Orlando Health Behavioral Healthcare at South Seminole Hospital (inpatient) and the Orlando Health Behavioral Specialists (outpatient) teams of certified and experienced psychiatrists, nurses, social workers and other clinicians to provide patient care.

Dr. Huckaby is a board-certified anesthesiologist who also has been trained in an addiction medicine fellowship at UF and an obstetric anesthesiology fellowship at Harvard. His experience in pain, pain management, women’s health and iatrogenic addictions will add to FRC at Orlando Health’s suite of treatment options. In addition to addiction services, Dr. Huckaby also will offer pain medicine services through the UF&Shands Florida Recovery Center.

Because the Florida Recovery Center is affiliated with the University of Florida and UF’s McKnight Brain Institute, patients have the benefit of a bench-to-bedside approach to addiction science, receiving treatment based on the latest addiction medicine research.

The UF&Shands Florida Recovery Center at Orlando Health is part of an ongoing collaboration of health initiatives between Orlando Health and UF&Shands, making care more accessible to millions of patients over a 20-county region. The alliance was formed in 2010 as a result of a longstanding history of close working relationships.

In addition to the recent addiction medicine initiative, the organizations have formed or will begin several joint clinical programs in areas including pediatrics, neuroscience, oncology, women’s health, transplantation and cardiovascular medicine.

For additional information about the Florida Recovery Center at Orlando Health, contact 855.265.4FRC(4372), or visit FloridaRecoveryCenter.UFandShands.org.

Winnie Palmer Hospital Announces Expansion of Neonatal ICU

3/19/2012 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, Fla (March 19, 2012) – Winnie Palmer Hospital for Women & Babies is announcing plans to expand its neonatal intensive care unit (NICU). The $13 million expansion will add 30 beds to the unit, making it the largest NICU in the United States.

“Our NICU is one of the busiest in the country and we have to keep looking for ways to meet the needs of the families who turn to us for the care of their babies,” states Kathy Swanson, president of Winnie Palmer Hospital. “This expansion allows us to continue to provide the world-class care our NICU is known for, and it represents exactly what Arnold Palmer said to us when he visited our NICU nearly 30 years ago – ‘we can do better.’”

The current NICU at Winnie Palmer Hospital, named the Alexander Center for Neonatology in honor of neonatology pioneer Gregor Alexander, M.D., holds 112 beds. More than 1,600 babies are admitted into the NICU annually. It is equipped to provide the highest-level of care for high-risk newborns, including babies born prematurely or with congenital heart disease, infections, and various other conditions. Once the expansion is complete, the NICU will hold 142 beds.

David Auerbach, M.D., director of the NICU, says there is a real need for this expansion in order to continue providing advanced care for these miracle babies. “The incidence of premature birth has gone up all over the country, including here in Central Florida. The 30 beds we’ll be adding to the NICU allow us to effectively meet the growing demand we’ve seen in this community.”

The current NICU exists on the third floor of Winnie Palmer Hospital. The expansion will take place on the eleventh floor of the hospital, which was originally shelled in anticipation of future expansion needs. Completion of the expansion is expected in 2014.

Winnie Palmer Hospital for Women & Babies
Winnie Palmer Hospital for Women & Babies, supported by the Arnold Palmer Medical Center Foundation, is a 285-bed facility dedicated exclusively to the needs of women and babies. The hospital includes comprehensive fetal diagnostics and labor and delivery services, a regional center for neonatal intensive care, maternal intensive care and women’s services. Annually, more than 13,000 babies are expected to be born at Winnie Palmer Hospital, making it the busiest labor and delivery unit in the state of Florida. To learn more, visit www.winniepalmerhospital.com.

Virtual reality training for residents keeps patients safe in real life

3/14/2012 12:00:00 AM

Orlando, Fla. (March 14, 2012) --- From a distance it may look like a group of friends playing the latest interactive video games, but it’s actually a group of residents at Orlando Health using virtual reality technology to learn to perform lifesaving surgical techniques and diagnostic procedures. The virtual learning environment at the Medical Simulation Lab enhances quality, efficiency and safety in patient care.

“This is a new era,” said Jay Falk, MD, FCCM, FACEP, chief academic medical officer Orlando Health. “The old methodology of teaching, ‘See one, do one, teach one,’ is disappearing. We now teach skills on realistic, complex simulators first. Once residents have successfully demonstrated specific skills by physically performing a procedure in the simulation lab, they move to the bedside. This improves quality, is safer for patients and enhances the trainee’s experience.”

Advanced simulation systems were recently added to the Graduate Medical Education’s lab for training in surgical and diagnostic procedures including knee and shoulder arthroscopy; endoscopy, colonoscopy and bronchoscopy procedures; ultrasound assessment of thoracic, abdominal and pelvic cavities; general and gynecological laparoscopic surgeries.

For example, with the gastro-intestinal/bronchoscopy simulator, a resident stands in front of a box that resembles the shape of a torso. Multiple medical tools are used and guided through “torso” openings as residents watch monitors during endoscopic procedure, as they would use to navigate in a real life surgical setting.

Research behind medical simulation shows the benefits of this type of training.

“Studies have shown the skills learned in virtual reality training experiences translate to the clinical environment with a reduction in errors and an increase in efficiency,” said Eileen Bowe, RN, BSN, MBA, program manager for the Simulation Lab. “In addition, the objective criteria used during the simulated procedures are based on best practices and evidence based medicine, which makes the virtual experience reflect reality.”

The new virtual reality simulators will be integrated into the existing curriculum which includes medical training mannequins known as high fidelity manikins or human patient simulators. Training manikins include Trauma Man and Trauma Child for training in emergency procedures including chest tube insertions and percutaneous tracheotomies.

“The training manikins are very helpful in allowing training but do not provide experience in surgical and complex procedures,” said Bowe. “For example, manikins and residents are behind a one way mirror. Microphones and control equipment allow the manikin to speak as a patient and answer questions. Symptoms can be changed by the attending physician (trainer) as the resident continues the examination.”

To further enhance the learning experiences, cameras and audiovisual equipment inside the lab captures the simulation experiences to assist in debriefing residents.

Simulation has become one of the cornerstones of training, ensuring residents gain hands on experience in a safe environment in order to provide the best care for patients.

About Orlando Health

Orlando Health is a $1.7 billion not-for-profit health care organization and a community-based network of hospitals and care centers in the Orlando region. The organization, which includes the area’s only Level One Trauma Centers for adults and pediatrics, is a statutory teaching hospital system that offers both specialty and community hospitals. They are: Orlando Regional Medical Center; Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children; Winnie Palmer Hospital for Women & Babies; Dr. P. Phillips Hospital; South Seminole Hospital; South Lake Hospital (50 percent partnership); St. Cloud Regional Medical Center (20 percent partnership) and MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando – the first affiliate of one of the nation’s premier cancer centers The University of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center in Houston. Orlando Health’s areas of clinical excellence are heart and vascular, cancer care, neurosciences, surgery, pediatric orthopedics and sports medicine, neonatology, and obstetrics and gynecology.

Orlando Health is Central Florida’s fifth largest employer with nearly 14,000 employees and more than 2,000 affiliated physicians, all of whom support our philosophy of providing high quality care and service when it matters most. We prove this everyday with over 100,000 inpatient admissions and more than 600,000 outpatient visits each year. In all, Orlando Health serves 1.6 million Central Florida residents and nearly 3,000 international patients annually. Additionally, Orlando Health provides approximately $198 million in support of community health needs. More information can be found at orlandohealth.com.

Orlando Health to replace heart valves without surgery

3/12/2012 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, Fla. (March 12, 2012) --- Doctors at the Orlando Health Heart Institute have found a new pathway to a patient’s heart valve. In May, cardiologists and cardiovascular surgeons will begin using the first artificial heart valve approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, to replace a narrowed heart valve going through a leg artery instead of a traditional open heart surgery.

The new device and procedure is an option for some patients with aortic valve stenosis – an age-related heart disease caused when calcium deposits cause the aortic valve to narrow. The narrowing forces the heart to work harder to pump enough blood through the smaller opening, leading to heart failure, irregular heart rhythms, heart attack and other heart problems.

“For most patients, once symptoms from aortic stenosis develop, death occurs within a couple of years,” said Deepak Vivek, MD, director, Orlando Health Heart Institute Heart Valve Center. “Open heart surgery is too risky for some patients. Having an alternative to save lives and improve the quality of lives is a vital to caring for patients with heart disease – which remains the leading cause of death for men and women in our country.”

The artificial valve, called the Sapien THV and manufactured by Edwards Lifesciences, is made of cow heart tissue and a polyethylene skirt and is supported with a stainless steel mesh frame. To replace the diseased valve, the artificial valve is delivered through a catheter, inserted through a small cut in the leg. The new valve is released from the catheter, expanded with a balloon and is immediately functional.

“Offering patients this innovative new device through a less invasive approach is part of our ongoing efforts to provide effective treatment options to patients who cannot undergo a traditional open heart surgery to replace a valve,” said Arnold Einhorn, MD, Co-Medical Director, Orlando Health Heart Institute. “This artificial valve may also be an answer for those patients.”

The Heart Institute’s Valve Center is part of our new model of care that puts the patient first by promoting seamless coordination of all aspects of the patient experience, is made up of cardiologists, cardiac surgeons, radiologists, anesthesiologists and other clinicians who work together to evaluate options to treat high-risk patients with aortic stenosis.

About Orlando Health

Dr. P. Phillips Hospital Recognized in Kilowatt Crackdown Challenge

2/28/2012 12:00:00 AM

Orlando, FL – February 28, 2012 – Dr. P. Phillips Hospital has been recognized in the Kilowatt Crackdown Challenge by the Central Florida Energy Efficiency Alliance (CFEEA). The hospital, an Energy Star partner, saved more than 950,000 kilowatt hours last year by retrofitting the lighting systems in its parking garages and implementing lighting changes in the main hospital building. This green initiative has meant a 5-10% reduction in energy expense for the hospital.

Dr. P. Phillips Hospital was among seven companies recognized by the CFEEA that combined contributed to a reduction of 26,414 metric tons of CO2 greenhouse gas emission in Central Florida. The CFEEA was established in July 2009 to provide a unified voice for professional and trade organizations, local government, academia, and utilities that are committed to research, education and implementation of environmentally and socially responsible energy and building management practices that conserve energy and natural resources. CFEEA sponsors challenges, events, training, workshops, awards, and free resources to help businesses and government entities in Central Florida save money and become more sustainable.

Dr. P. Phillips Hospital
Dr. P. Phillips Hospital, part of the nationally recognized Orlando Health system, is a complete medical and surgical facility serving southwest Orange County. With 237 acute care beds, Dr. Phillips Hospital offers specialized programs including cardiovascular surgery, laparoscopic surgery, emergency medicine and an accredited Chest Pain Center. Dr. Phillips serves residents and visitors to Orlando’s sprawling tourist complex, including Walt Disney World, Universal Studios and SeaWorld. For more information, visit www.drphillipshospital.com.

MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando Selected as Local Charity for Saks Fifth Avenue Charitable Program

1/31/2012 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, FL. (January 30, 2012) –Saks Fifth Avenue has announced that MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando is one of the local recipients to benefit from a new charitable program giving dollars back to the Central Florida community. This February, Saks Fifth Avenue will give 5% of all registered purchases made with a Saks Fifth Avenue credit card back to charity.

Customers, shopping at the Saks Fifth Avenue at the Florida Mall, may select which local charity from Saks Fifth Avenue roster they wish to allocate their 5% contribution, among them MD Anderson – Orlando. Registration is one simple step at point of sale linking the customer account with their chosen charity.

MD Anderson – Orlando and Saks Fifth Avenue have partnered before. Last fall, local male celebrities hit the runway for Real Men Wear Pink, a showcase in support for breast cancer awareness and the latest in men’s fall fashion trends. Presented by Saks Fifth Avenue at the Florida Mall, the event benefitted Women Playing For T.I.M.E®. and MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando and brought in thousands of dollars to support cancer care.

In addition to MD Anderson – Orlando, Saks Fifth Avenue at The Florida Mall has partnered with the following charities from February 1 to 29, 2012: A Gift For Teaching, The Orlando Magic Youth Foundation, Habitat For Humanity of Winter Park–Maitland, and The Mennello Museum of American Art.

Store hours for Saks Fifth Avenue at The Florida Mall are Monday through Saturday, 10 to 9, and Sunday, noon to 6.

MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando

MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando, part of Orlando Health, is affiliated with The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center in Houston. U.S. News & World Report recently ranked MD Anderson Cancer Center as the top cancer treatment center in the U.S. and has ranked it as one of the top two cancer centers for the past 13 years. Orlando Health, a 1,882-bed community-owned, Florida not-for-profit organization established in 1918, annually serves nearly 2 million Central Florida residents and more than 4,500 international patients. More information is available at www.mdacco.com.

ORMC’s bariatric program, medical director earns Center of Excellence designation

1/27/2012 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, Fla. (January 19, 2012) --- The Weight Loss (Bariatric) Program at Orlando Regional Medical Center was recently designated as a Bariatric Surgery Center of Excellence® by the American Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery (ASMBS). Muhammad Jawad, MD, the program’s medical director, was also named an ASMBS Bariatric Surgery Center of Excellence designee.

“The designation reflects the demonstrated expertise and experience of our staff to provide patients with a program marked by high quality care, good outcomes and safety,” said Dr. Jawad.

Established in 2004, the center of excellence program, administered by Surgical Review Corporation, was developed to advance the safety, efficacy and efficiency of bariatric and metabolic surgical care. The center of excellence program uses objective requirements and evaluation processes verified through a rigorous site inspection. Requirements for bariatric programs based in hospitals include: institutional commitment to excellence, surgical experience and volumes, responsive critical care support, appropriate equipment and instruments, patient support groups and long-term patient follow-up.

With its experienced clinicians – surgeons, nurses, dietitians, behavioral specialists and program coordinator – ORMC supports patients before surgery through recovery and after discharge.

ORMC’s program offers Roux-en-Y gastric bypass surgery, laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy, gastric banding (LAP-BAND® Surgery) to help patients improve their health beyond weight loss to curing diseases such as type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, sleep apnea and polycystic ovary syndrome. The program also offers revision surgeries.

The center of excellence designation also improves access for patients as the program is now formally recognized by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, which enables reimbursement from government and private health insurers.To learn more about the program or to register for a free information session, visit myormc.com/weightloss or call 321.8HEALTH.

About Orlando Health

About the American Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery (ASMBS)

The ASMBS is the largest organization for bariatric surgeons in the world. It is a nonprofit organization that works to advance the art and science of bariatric surgery and is committed to educating medical professionals and the lay public about bariatric surgery as an option for the treatment of morbid obesity, as well as the associated risks and benefits. It encourages its members to investigate and discover new advances in bariatric surgery, while maintaining a steady exchange of experiences and ideas that may lead to improved surgical outcomes for morbidly obese patients. For more information on the ASMBS, visit www.asmbs.org.

About Surgical Review Corporation

Surgical Review Corporation (SRC) is an independent, nonprofit organization governed by industry stakeholders and dedicated to advancing the safety, efficacy and efficiency of surgical care worldwide. Initially focused on bariatric and metabolic surgery, SRC has emerged as a leading administrator of center of excellence programs for surgical specialties. The organization manages programs on behalf of top medical societies around the world, setting a global standard for excellence. To support center of excellence program compliance and quality improvement in patient care, SRC developed BOLD, a longitudinal outcomes database. BOLD is now the world’s largest repository of clinical patient data for the bariatric surgery specialty. For more information, visit www.surgicalreview.org.

Nation’s Prescription Drug Problem Hits Local Emergency Departments

1/19/2012 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, Fla. (January 18, 2012) --- Emergency physicians at Florida Hospital and Orlando Health are responding to patients seeking pain medications, but not necessarily with a prescription. The area’s two largest health care organizations are prescribing a dose of empowerment, education and encouragement. A new Chronic Pain Management Plan empowers patients to take responsibility in the safe use of pain management treatments, educates patients about the dangers of misuse, abuse and addiction, and encourages patients to seek the best setting to care for chronic pain management conditions.

“The prescription drug problem is a local and national public health concern,” said Josef Thundiyil, MD, Orlando Health. “Emergency departments are treating more and more patients with prescription drug abuse related injuries and seeing more deaths. Deaths related to prescription drug use in Florida have even surpassed deaths from other common killers including motor vehicle crashes. Related injuries are on the rise also.”

Added to the challenge, some attempt to use Emergency Departments as an alternative method to pain clinics to obtain medications or prescriptions for pain medications. In addition, others visit Emergency Departments to seek treatment for chronic non-malignant pain.

The recent spike in patients comes on the heels of tougher laws and legislation to reduce the number of pain clinics and limit prescribing, and more aggressive policing by law enforcement agencies which has led to an increase in arrests and seized medications.

“We support initiatives to prevent abuse, addiction, diversion, injuries and deaths from prescription medications. We have seen the impact on emergency departments which has included more patients and increased use of resources,” said David Goldman, DO, Florida Hospital. “Both hospital teams met and asked ourselves, ‘What can we do to continue to ensure appropriate medical care for those in need, offer assistance to those in need?’ We developed a plan that helps empower patients to take responsibility in pain management, educate them about the dangers of abuse, and encourage treatment in the proper clinical setting.”

The policy includes guidelines for clinicians in considering treatment to ensure appropriate care, and encourages and involves more discussion among doctors and patients about pain care. The policy also includes various referral options for pain care (primary care physicians or behavioral modification programs) and includes pain medication signage inside emergency departments.

What the policy does not do is withhold pain medication from patients with medical needs.

“As emergency physicians, we understand that pain is real when someone is hurt or needs emergency care,” said Dr. Thundiyil. “We know the importance of appropriately alleviating pain for traumatic injuries and acute illness. We have done so for years and will continue to do so. However, a different approach is needed when some patients visit the emergency department for medical conditions that require long term pain management.”

Chronic pain medication is best managed between patients and their primary care physicians rather than emergency physicians who are unable to establish the long term relationship needed to appropriately treat and manage recurring pain and prevent life threatening side effects. Because sporadic, episodic care of chronic pain management may lead to worse outcomes – poorer control of pain, more side effects of medication, and increased potential for addiction, substance abuse, and community diversion – proper pain management is the best solution for the best outcomes. Referring these patients to community resources is vital to this plan.

“That physician referral to the appropriate resources is so important,” said Stacy Seikel, MD, Medical Director for the Center for Drug Free Living. “If people leave the hospital and don’t know where to turn for help, their addiction will just continue. That is why we are standing by Florida Hospital and Orlando Health and this shift in their emergency room approach. We stand ready to make sure any substance abuser in Central Florida can receive treatment.”

The organizations hope those who need help will take advantage of referrals to behavioral modification programs, and that the policy sends a strong message to and eliminates the number of those only seeking prescription medication for non-medical reasons.

“I applaud Florida Hospital and Orlando Health for taking the initiative to tackle this issue head on,” said Orange County Mayor Teresa Jacobs. “If we are going to put a stop to the prescription drug epidemic in our community we must combat it from all angles. Getting the hospital emergency rooms and their physicians involved is an important part of making progress.”

Helping patients better manage pain helps patients get the care they need where they need it and helps in the management of the community’s Emergency Departments.

MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando Moves Pancreatic Cancer Research Forward with Grant from The Shirley E. Noland Foundation

1/17/2012 12:00:00 AM

Orlando, FL – January 16, 2012 – MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando has received a generous donation to help in the fight against pancreatic cancer. A $75,000 grant, funded by the Shirley E. Noland Foundation, will support the Pancreatic Cancer Translational Research Project at MD Anderson – Orlando. The project will take the latest research findings to develop new treatment programs for patients with pancreatic cancer. The project will focus on testing tolfenamic acid (a drug commonly used in Europe to treat migraine headaches), to inhibit the growth of human pancreatic cancer cells and improve the chance of surviving this type of cancer. Last year the Shirley E. Noland Foundation funded preclinical research at MD Anderson – Orlando for a Phase 1 Clinical Trial for pancreatic cancer using tolfenamic acid.

“We are truly grateful to move our pancreatic cancer program forward with the continued support of the Shirley E. Noland Foundation,” said Clarence Brown, MD, President and CEO of MD Anderson – Orlando. “Treating pancreatic cancer poses unique challenges because so often by the time this type of cancer is detected, it has already spread. These dollars will help us fight this type of cancer by opening new doors for our researchers and oncologists as they work to beat this disease. Ultimately, this donation will save lives.“

The Pancreatic Cancer Translational Research Project at MD Anderson – Orlando is a collaboration between physicians at MD Anderson – Orlando and scientists at the Cancer Research Institute, the research arm of MD Anderson – Orlando. The project is led by Riyaz Basha, PhD, Debashish Bose, MD, PhD and Omar Kayaleh, MD. Dr. Basha will be presenting his research related to pancreatic cancer at the 4th International Conference on Drug Discovery & Therapy in Dubai, UAE in February. Dr. Bose started the Pancreas Center at MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando in 2010.

It is estimated that 44,000 Americans are diagnosed with pancreatic cancer each year and more than 37,000 will die of the disease. Because of its location in the body, pancreatic cancer is difficult to detect and has often spread by the time a person has symptoms. At present there are no robust screening tests available for pancreatic cancer. Approximately 2 out of 10 people with pancreatic cancer will live at least one year after their cancer is found. Fewer than 4% will be alive after five years.

MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando, part of Orlando Health, is affiliated with The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center in Houston. U.S. News & World Report recently ranked MD Anderson Cancer Center as the top cancer treatment center in the U.S. and has ranked it as one of the top two cancer centers for the past 13 years. Orlando Health, a 1,882-bed community-owned, Florida not-for-profit organization established in 1918, annually serves nearly 2 million Central Florida residents and more than 4,500 international patients. More information is available at www.mdacco.com.

Lung Cancer Screening Program at MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando Can Save Lives

1/13/2012 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, FL. (January 12, 2012) – A MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando pilot screening program is helping to diagnose lung cancer in patients early and is saving lives. MD Anderson Orlando was the first in Central Florida to launch the pilot screening program which targets those most at risk for lung cancer, smokers and former smokers, in the hopes of catching any sign of cancer early, and improving survival rates.

MD Anderson – Orlando is offering the CT scans at a discounted rate of $375. CT Scans usually run around $1500. Studies show that CT scans can detect cancer earlier than X-rays and cut lung cancer deaths by 20%. To be eligible for this pilot screening program you must be over the age of 50 and have smoked one pack a day for 20 years or more.

MD Anderson – Orlando oncologists estimate that 25% of those screened may need further study and 4% will need treatment for lung cancer.

The pilot program is based on a study by the National Lung Screening Trial that showed that CT screenings detect lung cancer early and succeeded in cutting lung cancer deaths by 20%. The results from this landmark study have now been published in The New England Journal of Medicine, bringing additional attention to the fight against lung cancer.

Lung cancer accounts for more deaths than any other cancer in the U.S. Over 18,000 Floridians are expected to be diagnosed with lung cancer this year. Each year over 222,000 people nationwide will be diagnosed with lung cancer and approximately 157,000 will die from the disease.

Read more about this study at The New England Journal of Medicine.
More information about the National Lung Screening Trial.

Call 321-843-7020 for more information or to schedule your appointment today.

American Heart Association names Orlando Health a Start! Fit-Friendly Company

12/22/2011 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, Fla. (December 21, 2011) --- Orlando Health was recently recognized as a Platinum-Level Start! Fit-Friendly Company by the American Heart Association’s Start! initiative for helping employees eat better and move more. Orlando Health is one of only 215 platinum level Fit-Friendly Companies in the entire nation.

“Our team member wellness program, Healthy U, is an important priority for our organization,” said Lee O’Donnell, corporate manager, Lifestyle Medicine. “We are creating an environment that supports and influences healthy living among team members and the community through various programs, initiatives and resources. We are honored and excited to be recognized by the American Heart Association.”

Platinum-level employers are cited for: offering employees physical activity options in the workplace, increasing healthy eating options at the worksite, promoting a wellness culture in the workplace, implementing at least nine criteria outlined by the American Heart Association in the areas of physical activity, nutrition and culture, and demonstrating measurable outcomes related to workplace wellness.

Healthy U was established to provide information about health promotion and disease management programs, products, plans and services at Orlando Health that impact the health and well being of team members and their dependents. Healthy U initiatives also include health fairs with free dance/fitness sampler sessions, healthy food tastings/samplings and Healthy U Minutes (movement to music activity) in meetings.

“We enjoyed learning about all the wonderful activities that your company sponsors to support and encourage the American Heart Association’s mission of building healthier lives, free of cardiovascular disease and stroke,” said Luanne Lumpkins, metro vice president, American Heart Association. “The simple and fun measures that you take such as, color coding your salad bar to help people make wiser choices, having Farmer’s Markets travel to your different hospital sites and holding flash mobs in the cafeterias, all pave the way for a healthier community.”

About the American Heart Association

The American Heart Association is devoted to saving people from heart disease and stroke – America’s No. 1 and No. 3 killers. We team with millions of volunteers to fund innovative research, fight for stronger public health policies, and provide lifesaving tools and information to prevent and treat these diseases. The Dallas-based association is the nation’s oldest and largest voluntary organization dedicated to fighting heart disease and stroke. To learn more or join us, call 1-800-AHA-USA1 or any of our offices around the country, or visit heart.org.

About Orlando Health

ORMC Announces Redesign and Renovation Project

12/21/2011 12:00:00 AM

Editor’s Note: See attached artist’s renderings.

ORLANDO, Fla. (December 22, 2011) --- ‘Twas the weeks after pre-construction projects began and all thro’ the downtown campus everyone was stirring, what’s the excitement about? A bulldozer was parked in a recently cleared lot with care, in hopes that a new patient bed tower would soon be there. The team members were nestled all snug in their offices, while visions of a new Orlando Regional Medical Center (ORMC) danced in their heads.

The Orlando Health Board of Directors recently approved plans for the ORMC Redesign and Renovation. ORMC’s latest project to the community includes constructing a new patient bed tower, increasing the size of the Emergency Department and constructing a proton radiation therapy building. The plans represent one of the largest redesign and renovation projects in the history of the organization. A key component of the project is closing the Lucerne Pavilion and transferring inpatient care to ORMC. The Annex area of the Lucerne Pavilion will remain open. The Annex area includes inpatient rehabilitation services. This consolidation will result in better service for patients and greatly improve efficiency and cost savings for the organization.

A groundbreaking ceremony will be held in 2012.

“We are delighted to officially announce our redesign and renovation plans and we are excited about what it means for health care in Central Florida,” Linda Chapin, chairman, Board of Directors. “The project allows us to meet the growing needs of our communities, strengthening our mission to improve the health and quality of life of the individuals and communities we serve.”

ORMC will soon begin breaking ground to build a new patient bed tower that will be 10 stories tall and feature a new entrance to the hospital, and double the size of the current Emergency Department.”

“With the ORMC Redesign and Renovation Project, Orlando Health is reinvesting in the community by providing upgraded health care facilities, health care services, and easier campus access for patients, guests and employees” said Shannon Elswick, senior vice president, president, Adult Hospitals Group. “In essence, we are making our delivery of care better for the community, which has relied on us for almost 100 years.”

The 190+ bed patient bed tower will be 345,000 square feet in size. Additional project plans include increasing the size of and renovating existing emergency medicine, cardiovascular, surgical, critical care, pharmacy and laboratory areas at ORMC and oncology areas at MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando.

“As we continue during the next three to four years, there will be road closures and detours to the downtown campus,” said Mark Schaefer, administrator, Ancillary Services and Facility Planning. “Along with the dust may come a little disruption and temporary changes. We are working to minimize inconvenience for our patients, guests and team members as we work to bring the community the health care services it needs.”

The ORMC Redesign and Renovation Project is one of several recent Orlando Health downtown campus patient care enhancements including a new replacement parking garage that opened last December, a new M.D. Anderson Cancer Center Orlando Breast Cancer Survivorship Clinic that opened in March 2009, an addition of 10,000 square feet of renovated office space in August 2009 to manage M.D. Anderson – Orlando’s growing patient volume and a new medical office building, a new parking garage that opened in the spring of 2008, and the Orlando Health Heart Institute which opened in late November.

About Orlando Health

Orlando Health opens new Heart Institute

12/19/2011 12:00:00 AM

Orlando, Fla. (December 7, 2011) --- Orlando Health is starting something new in patient care for the community. The organization’s newest medical facility, named the Orlando Health Heart Institute, has opened. As part of a new approach to patient care the institute brings together doctors surgeons and clinical staff to provide advanced diagnostic services, the latest surgical and non-surgical treatment options, comprehensive education and innovative research.

“The Heart Institute reflects Orlando Health’s vision of creating a new model of care,” says Sherrie Sitarik, president and CEO, Orlando Health. “While the Heart Institute will be integrated throughout Orlando Health’s seven hospitals, many of the services will be provided in the new facility designed around patients and their needs.”

The new patient experience includes greater accessibility to clinical experts, more coordinated and collaborated care, advanced diagnostics and more timely results in a centralized downtown campus location.

Inside the Orlando Health Heart Institute patients will find Mid-Florida Cardiology Specialists and Orlando Heart Center, now affiliates of Orlando Health, Orlando Health Cardiovascular and Thoracic Surgery, The Heart Center at Arnold Palmer Hospital, vascular surgery practices, advanced imaging and an accredited cardiac rehabilitation program.

While the heart of the institute is cardiac care, with 150,000 square feet of space, the new building will provide a new model of care for patients in other clinical areas and services as well. The medical facility includes Level I Orthopedics, Outpatient Rehabilitation, specialty multidisciplinary clinics, including diabetes, Pharmacy, Guest Services, Patient Financial Services and other services.

Cardiac Rehabilitation was the first department to move into the new building. During the next couple of months various services and departments will be transferred to the new building, located on the downtown campus, at 1222 South Orange Avenue – across from MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando.

About Orlando Health

ORMC Construction Update: Changes to ORMC entrance, Emergency Department traffic

12/19/2011 12:00:00 AM

What:	Changes to hospital entrance at Orlando Regional Medical Center (ORMC), directional traffic for Emergency Department and other key areas.
When:	Beginning the week of December 12, 2011.
Changes:	Directional signage on campus will help patients, visitors and guests navigate during the changes.
	Maps with road closures and detours will be available at www.orlandohealth.com. Select the yellow construction icon with the text “Enhancing Access. Advancing Health. Building Community.”
	Where to park: Parking for patients, visitors and guests of ORMC, MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando, the Ambulatory Care Center (ACC) and the Orlando Health Heart Institute is located at the new Patient and Visitor Parking Garage (Kuhl Avenue and Underwood Street).
	Where to drop off patients: Drop off area for patients and visitors is located at the loop outside MD Anderson – Orlando.
	Where to enter ORMC: The primary entrance into ORMC will move, and will be located at the side entrance of MD Anderson – Orlando. To access this entrance when leaving the Patient and Visitor Parking Garage walk in front of the ACC, and turn right onto the walkway between the ACC and MD Anderson - Orlando.
	Where to pick up patients: Patient pick up will be located at loop outside the former ORMC front entrance (Kuhl Avenue and Copeland Street). To access the patient pick up area, take Copeland Street east until it ends into the loop outside the ORMC front entrance. Note the ORMC Discharge Loop will close (on Kuhl Avenue, near Underwood Street) and will no longer be accessible. The ORMC Discharge Center inside will remain open.
	Where to valet: Valet for ORMC, MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando and the ACC is located at the loop in front of MD Anderson – Orlando.
	How to access the ORMC Emergency Department: Sturtevant Street in front of the Emergency Department will become one way. Access to the Emergency Department will continue to be from Orange Avenue. To exit the Emergency Department, patients and visitors will need to drive west on Sturtevant Street, turn left (south) onto Kuhl Avenue, then turn left (east) onto Miller Street. Valet parking will still be available at the ORMC Emergency Department.
About the Enabling Projects:	Enabling projects, such as underground utility work and other ancillary work that must be completed in preparation for the planned ORMC Redesign and Renovation Project. The planned project is to consolidate clinical services at ORMC and lay the foundation for future development surrounding the hospital. The changes are part of an overall plan that will make it easier for patients to find, access, and receive healthcare at Orlando Health’s downtown campus.
Patient Care:	Patient care - inpatient, outpatient or emergency medicine/trauma care will continue throughout the enabling projects.
Media Contact:	Sabrina Childress, Media Relations Manager Orlando Regional Medical Center Phone: 321.841.8748, Mobile: 407.765.728 Email: sabrina.childress@orlandohealth.com

How Can Thanksgiving Dinner Prevent Cancer?

11/21/2011 12:00:00 AM

MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando’s Nicole Santapola (Health Education & Cancer Prevention) and Dawn Napoli, RD, LD/N appeared on FOX 35’s Good Day Orlando morning show to discuss ingredients to add to Thanksgiving dinner to make it healthier and help prevent certain types of cancer.

We can prevent 1/3 of the top three cancers – BREAST, LUNG and COLON just by eating SMART and what better time to start than now as we gear up for the holiday feeding frenzy. MD Anderson – Orlando has launched a Roving Food Cart program to help people figure out exactly what they need to eat MORE OF that include cancer fighting nutrients and vitamins.

What we can add to our Thanksgiving shopping list to help prevent cancer.
- Cranberries and blueberries
- Flaxseed
- Cruciferous vegetables (Broccoli, Cauliflower, Red Cabbage, Spinach, Radishes)
- Sweet potatoes
- Whole grains

How do these items actually help prevent cancer and what types of cancers do they prevent?
Cranberries
- 1 serving (1 c raw) provides 10% of daily recommended amount of VITAMIN C and FIBER
- Lowers risk of COLORECTAL, ESOPHAGEAL, MOUTH, PHARYNX, LARYNX, LUNG and STOMACH cancers
- Have antioxidant phytochemicals (flavanoids)
- For Thanksgiving: Mix with oranges, apples, pears for a cranberry chutney over turkey. Add to brown rice, bulgar, barley, quinoa or whole wheat stuffing. Mix in for a trail mix as a snack. Add to baked apples, apple crisp, or apple pie.
Blueberries
- Excellent source of Vitamin C, Vitamin K, manganese, fiber, high in antioxidant power
- For Thanksgiving: Add to salad, muffins, fruit crumble or trail mix.
Flaxseed
- Lowers risk of COLORECTAL cancer
- Excellent source of magnesium, manganese, thiamin, selenium, protein, omega-3
- For Thanksgiving: Sprinkle on salads or green bean casserole. Include in baked items and mashed potatoes.
Cruciferous Vegetables
- Broccoli, Red Cabbage, Cauliflower, Spinach, Radishes
- Excellent source of FOLATE,VITAMIN C, VITAMIN K, POTASSIUM, FIBER, MANGANESE
- Reduces risk of COLORECTAL, MOUTH, PHARYNX, LARYNX, ESOPHAGUS, STOMACH and PANCREATIC CANCER
- For Thanksgiving: Roast or bake turnips, parsnips, brussel sprouts, broccoli, cauliflower. Dip raw in hummus or spread with peanut butter. Make a spinach salad or broccoli/cauliflower casserole.
Whole Grains
- Whole wheat breads, rolls, pasta, cereals, oatmeal, wild rice, corn, tabbouleh, tortilla chips
- Rich in FIBER, VITAMINS, PHYTOCHEMICALS
- Reduces rick of COLORECTAL CANCER
- For Thanksgiving: Whole wheat stuffing, brown or wild rice pilaf, whole wheat rolls
Sweet Potatoes
- Rich in complex carbohydrates, fiber, beta carotene, vitamin C and vitamin A
- Reduces risk of LUNG, SKIN and PROSTATE CANCER
- For Thanksgiving: Bake or boil than mash with a small amount of butter or oil. Sneak into cookies or other baked goods. Use in sweet potato fries, pancakes, casserole, soup.

Sample Thanksgiving dishes:
- Quinoa/Cranberry Stuffing
- Sweet Potato Cookies
- Hummus and Cruciferous Veggie Appetizer
- Kickin’ Cancer Trail Mix

Upcoming MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando Class:
Wednesday December 14: Healthy Happy Holidays
Come celebrate the season with colorful holiday foods that are both nutritious and delicious! Incorporate plant based foods into your holiday meals that help build immunity, prevent cancer and keep you healthy! Learn how to avoid overeating due to holiday stress. Food demonstration and sampling.

12:00 noon – 1:30 p.m.
MD Anderson Orlando
RSVP to Orlandohealth.com/classes
321.8HEALTH

Cancer Kickin’ Thanksgiving Dishes

11/21/2011 12:00:00 AM

Quinoa Cranberry Pecan Stuffing

1 c Quinoa, rinsed
2 c Turkey, Chicken or Vegetable Broth
1 Tbs Olive Oil
1 ½ C Celery, chopped
1 Medium Onion, chopped
1 c Chopped Pecan Pieces
1 Tbs Lemon Juice
1 Tbs Rubbed Sage
1 Tbs Emeril’s Original Essence
4 oz Dried Cranberries

Cook Quinoa according to manufacturer directions, using broth in place of water. In a separate pan (I prefer to use my stir-fry pan for this), sauté celery and onion in olive oil until onion is glossy but not caramelized. Add pecans and warm thru. Remove from heat. Add cooked Quinoa, lemon juice, rubbed sage, Emeril’s Original Essence and dried cranberries. Serve warm. Makes 4-6 servings.

Cancer Kickin’ Trail Mix

Pecans
Walnuts
Soynuts
Sunflower seeds
Pumpkin seeds
Peanuts
Dried Cranberries
Dried Blueberries
Raisins
Mini dark chocolate chips

Sweet Potato Cookies

2/3 cup sweet potato puree
2 TBSP ground flax seed
1/4 cup almond milk
1/3 cup canola oil
1/2 cup maple syrup
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 cup spelt flour
1 cup whole wheat pastry flour
1 tsp pumpkin pie spice
3/4 tsp cinnamon
1 tsp baking soda
1/2 tsp salt
2 cups rolled oats
3/4 cup toasted pecans, chopped
1 cup dried cranberries

Directions
Preheat oven to 350*F. In a large mixing bowl, mix together sweet potato puree, ground flax seed and almond milk. Add in the remaining wet ingredients and mix well (oil, syrup, and vanilla). Sift in spelt flour, ww pastry flour, spices, soda, and salt and stir until fully incorporated. Fold in the oats, pecans and dried cranberries.

Using a 1/4 cup measuring cup, scoop cookie dough and drop on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Leave 2? of space between each cookie. Press down the scoops to form a flat patty. Bake for 15 minutes or until the cookies are a light golden brown.

Makes ~20 cookies

Note: You can substitute pumpkin puree for the sweet potato. Be sure to add more sweetener to make up for the substitution.

Lite Hummus Dip

1 can (15 oz.) chick peas, rinsed and drained
1-2 cloves finely minced garlic (or to taste)
1 Tbsp. sesame tahini
6-8 Tbsp. reduced sodium vegetable broth or water
1-2 Tbsp. fresh lemon juice
1/2 tsp. extra virgin olive oil
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Hot pepper sauce (optional)
Paprika

Instructions
In blender or food processor, place peas, garlic, tahini, broth or water, lemon juice and oil. Blend on high speed until mixture is smooth. Add salt, pepper and hot pepper sauce to taste, if desired. Pour mixture into serving bowl. Dust lightly with paprika. Serve with cut-up raw vegetables and pita bread. Makes 1 1/4 cups

Nutritional Information
Per 2 tablespoons: 50 calories, 2 g fat (<1 g saturated fat), 7 g carbohydrate,2 g protein, 2 g dietary fiber, 195 mg sodium.

American Institute for Cancer Research

Device sands away plaque, may prevent heart attacks

11/17/2011 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, Fla. (November 16, 2011) --- Drilling through concrete to create an opening may sound more like construction than medicine, but the approach is similar to what researchers at Orlando Regional Medical Center (ORMC) are doing in a clinical trial to evaluate a device that breaks through hardened coronary arteries, in an effort to prevent heart attacks and relieve chest pain.

The study evaluates the effectiveness and safety of the Diamondback 360? orbital technology which uses a tiny, orbiting diamond-coated crown to gently sand away calcified plaque and restore blood flow.

“This device is the next generation in the removal of this type of severe calcification in coronary arteries,” said Barry Weinstock, MD, an interventional cardiologist at ORMC’s Cath Lab and principal investigator for the clinical trial at ORMC. “During the last 20 years, technology has continued to improve with balloon angioplasty, and stents to keep arteries open, but the technology to treat calcified plaque in the arteries has not kept up as much.”

The Diamondback’s diamond-coated crown orbits in the coronary arteries with speeds varying from 80,000 to 120,000 times per minute, breaking up the plaque along the way into microscopic particles which are digested and excreted.

"The result is similar to what happens when a tablespoon of sugar is dropped into boiling water, it disappears," said Dr. Weinstock.

The procedure begins with a catheter inserted through an incision in the groin. Dye is injected to visualize the coronary arteries. A fine wire, the size of a strand of hair, is inserted into the artery through the catheter. The Diamondback catheter slides along the wire like a train on a track. Once the device removes the calcified plaque, a stent is typically placed to further open the artery and to minimize the chance of the artery re-clogging in the future.

Using orbital technology may mean better outcomes for patients.

“This new approach may be an effective, minimally invasive alternative for many patients who would otherwise require open-heart surgery," said Dr. Weinstock. “Recovery from open heart or bypass surgery can take as long as a week or longer. Using the orbital device, most patients are back home the day after the procedure and at work the next day.”

Severely hardened coronary arteries, a type of atherosclerosis, can restrict blood flow causing chest pain and other symptoms such as shortness of breath.

“More concerning, the plaque can rupture causing a blood clot which can trigger a heart attack,” said Dr. Weinstock.

Because the condition develops over time, mild atherosclerosis may not have symptoms. Once an artery is more severely clogged and blood flow is more severely restricted, common symptoms are similar to those of a heart attack, including chest pain.

“Risk factors for the development of coronary artery disease include high cholesterol, high blood pressure, diabetes, a family history of early heart disease, and smoking,” said Dr. Weinstock. “Patients with kidney disease and/or diabetes as well as more elderly patients are more likely to have severely calcified plaque that may need to be treated with a device such as the Diamondback 360.”

ORMC currently uses orbital technology to treat peripheral arterial disease (PAD), a build-up of plaque in the leg arteries that can lead to severe and debilitating leg pain or even amputation. The device already approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to treat PAD, is an alternative for surgery or amputation.

About Orlando Health

Paddlers from Orlando Health Raise Valuable Funds for MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando and Women Playing For T.I.M.E.®

11/16/2011 12:00:00 AM

Thousands of spectators turned out for the 4th Annual Walgreens Orlando International Dragon Boat Festival at Downtown Disney, which helped raise valuable dollars for MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando and Women Playing For T.I.M.E.® The event brought out more than 1,500 paddlers from around the country and locally. Orlando Health physicians and team members comprised 10 of the 70 teams that participated. The City of Orlando also formed a dragon boat team. City employees and Mayor Buddy Dyer presented MD Anderson – Orlando with a check for $30,000 from their team’s participation. The event helped to promote health and wellness in the community and breast cancer awareness. The festival included a ceremony to honor breast cancer survivors and remember those who lost their fight.

Arnold Palmer Hospital Is First to Receive New FDA-Approved X-ray Imaging Technology

10/27/2011 12:00:00 AM

Orlando, FL (October 27, 2011) - Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children is the first hospital in the United States to receive innovative new x-ray imaging technology that decreases radiation exposure to young patients and produces high-quality images. The system, manufactured by Siemens, is called Luminos Agile and received approval from the Food and Drug Administration in June 2011.

A key feature on the Luminos Agile system is a large flat-panel detector that enables physicians to examine an image that is up to 117 percent larger than images generated by older technology. A larger image allows physicians to examine a wider area of the anatomy without repositioning the patient - reducing scan times and radiation dose.

Luminos Agile delivers a package of features designed to increase patient comfort and enhance efficiency in the exam room. It offers the flexibility of a table that adjusts height from 25 inches to 44 inches to easily accommodate children and patients with mobility challenges. The adjustable table also has a weight capacity of 600 pounds and a 24-inch wide opening to provide easy access for bariatric and immobile patients. It is the first to combine these features with an operator console positioned directly on the system and not in another room, which improves patient experience and operating convenience for the staff.

"X-ray imaging technology is very important to the treatment we provide for so many of our young patients, especially those here for our cardiology, gastroenterology, and orthopedic services," states Susan Smith, M.D., Chair, Department of Radiology at Arnold Palmer Medical Center. "This system has the advanced features we need to provide our patients the highest-quality care in the safest possible environment."

Keeping radiation exposure to a minimum is critical when it comes to diagnostic imaging, particularly for children, who are more vulnerable to the adverse effects of ionizing radiation. The Luminos Agile system is the third in a trio of systems Arnold Palmer Hospital is investing in to offer patients the most advanced radiology services while remaining focused on low-dose radiation options. The first was a state-of-the-art Siemens nuclear medicine gamma camera that the hospital installed in 2008 to fulfill a need for intense imaging capabilities. In 2009, the hospital further established itself as a leader in low-dose radiation imaging by becoming the first worldwide to install the Siemens SOMATOM Definition Flash CT Scanner, a system that delivers the fastest speed and lowest radiation of any CT on the market.

ORMC Construction Update

10/17/2011 12:00:00 AM

WHAT:	Intersection and access to hospital entrance changes at Orlando Regional Medical Center (ORMC).

ABOUT THE ENABLING PROJECTS:	Enabling projects, such as underground utility work and other ancillary work that must be completed in preparation for the planned ORMC expansion and renovation. The planned expansion and renovation effort is to consolidate clinical services at ORMC and lay the foundation for future development surrounding the hospital. The changes are part of an overall plan that will make it easier for patients to find, access, and receive healthcare at Orlando Health’s downtown campus.

PATIENT CARE:	Patient care - inpatient, outpatient or emergency medicine/trauma care will continue throughout the enabling projects.

WHEN:	Monday, October 17, through Friday, November 11 (estimated end date).

CHANGES:	The intersection at Kuhl Avenue and Copeland Drive will be closed. This is the area immediately in front of ORMC used for patient drop off/pick up and valet. Patient drop off/pick up and valet will move to the discharge loop – located close by also on Kuhl Avenue, near Underwood Street. The front entrance will be open and accessible to pedestrian traffic only. Patients, visitors, courier/delivery personnel and other guests may use a covered walkway from the discharge loop to continue to use ORMC’s main entrance Patient Parking Deck A will be open. Parking Deck A, located on Copeland Drive is accessible by taking Sligh Boulevard to Copeland Drive. Parking Deck C, located at Underwood Street and Kuhl Avenue, is also available. Directional signage on campus will help patients and guests navigate during the changes.

MEDIA CONTACT:	Sabrina Childress, Media Relations Manager Orlando Regional Medical Center Phone: 321.841.8748, Mobile: 407.765.728 Email: sabrina.childress@orlandohealth.com

Orlando Health Board of Directors Appoints Two New Members

10/13/2011 12:00:00 AM

Orlando, FL (October 13, 2011) - Orlando Health today announced the appointment of Walt Disney World executive Brian Besanceney and Broad and Cassel Chairman, C. David Brown, II, to its Board of Directors.

"We are delighted to have Brian and David join us as directors of the Orlando Health organization," said Board Chairman Linda Chapin. "As members of the Board, their experience and commitment to the community will provide valuable insight as we continue efforts to move Orlando Health forward as a leading provider of quality health care and a major contributor to the financial health of Central Florida."

Brian Besanceney is senior vice president of Walt Disney World Public Affairs and Worldwide Government and Industry Relations for Walt Disney Parks and Resorts. He oversees media relations, internal communications, executive communications and community relations for Walt Disney World Resort, as well as government and industry relations for the company's worldwide vacation and travel businesses.

C. David Brown, II, is chairman of the statewide law firm Broad and Cassel. His professional career has focused on domestic and international corporate, government and real estate transactions.

Mr. Besanceney and Mr. Brown are the newest members of the Orlando Health Board of Directors which includes Mrs. Chapin, Lennard Greenbaum, MD; Jamal Hakim, MD; Joshua High, Kathy Johnson, Marilyn M. King, Harvey Kobrin, Rex V. McPherson, II; Dianna Morgan, Mark Sand, MD; Ray Sandhagen, Conrad Santiago, Sherrie Sitarik, Orlando Health president/CEO; Sanford C. Shugart, Ph.D. and Craig Ustler. Orlando Health's Board has fiduciary responsibility for the success of the organization -- both the quality of care and financial viability. Board members work toward fulfillment of the mission and goals of Orlando Health by participating, deliberating, and making decisions that are in the best interest of the organization.

In addition to serving on the Board of Directors of Orlando Health, Mr. Besanceney is a member of the Florida Chamber of Commerce International Business Committee. Prior to joining Disney, Mr. Besanceney served as deputy chief of staff to Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice at the U.S. Department of State. Previously, he also served as assistant secretary of public affairs for the U.S. Department of Homeland Security and as deputy White House communications director and special assistant to President George W. Bush. A graduate of The Ohio State University, he currently resides in Winter Park, Fl., with his wife and two children.

Mr. Brown serves as Vice-Chairman of the Board of Trustees for the University of Florida. He is an active member of the Florida Council of 100 serving on the Board of Directors and Executive Committee. Mr. Brown also serves on the Board of Directors for CVS/Caremark and is a member of their Executive Committee. He also serves on Rayonier's (RYN) Board of Directors and is currently a member of the Audit Committee and the Compensation and Management Development Committee.

The Florida native earned his Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration/Accounting and his Juris Doctorate degree from the University of Florida. He has two daughters and resides in Windermere, Fl. with his wife, Wanda.

About Orlando Health

Orlando Health is a $1.7 billion not-for-profit health care organization and a community-based network of hospitals and care centers in the Orlando region. The organization, which includes the area's only Level One Trauma Centers for adults and pediatrics, is a statutory teaching hospital system that offers both specialty and community hospitals. They are: Orlando Regional Medical Center; Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children; Winnie Palmer Hospital for Women & Babies; Dr. P. Phillips Hospital; South Seminole Hospital; South Lake Hospital (50 percent partnership); St. Cloud Regional Medical Center (20 percent partnership) and MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando - the first affiliate of one of the nation's premier cancer centers The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center in Houston. Orlando Health's areas of clinical excellence are heart and vascular, cancer care, neurosciences, surgery, pediatric orthopedics and sports medicine, neonatology, and obstetrics and gynecology.

Orlando Health is Central Florida's fifth largest employer with nearly 14,000 employees and more than 2,000 affiliated physicians, all of whom support our philosophy of providing high quality care and service when it matters most. We prove this everyday with over 100,000 inpatient admissions and more than 600,000 outpatient visits each year. In all, Orlando Health serves 1.6 million Central Florida residents and nearly 3,000 international patients annually. Additionally, Orlando Health provides approximately $198 million in support of community health needs. More information can be found at www.orlandohealth.com.

New test helps identify Parkinson’s disease

10/5/2011 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, Fla. (October 5, 2011) --- A new test is giving doctors and patients a clearer picture of Parkinson’s disease, and Parkinson’s syndrome. Nuclear medicine specialists at Orlando Regional Medical Center (ORMC) are now using DaTscan – the first Food and Drug Administration-approved imaging agent to help diagnose patients with suspected Parkinsonian syndromes, such as Parkinson’s disease — a neurodegenerative disorder that afflicts nearly 1.5 million Americans, with an additional 50,000 to 60,000 new cases identified each year. ORMC is the first hospital in Central Florida certified to perform the test.

“With a more timely diagnosis we can manage the disease earlier, which leads to better outcomes for patients,” said Mary Hart MD, nuclear medicine chair, ORMC.

DaTscan, by GE Healthcare, is performed by injecting a tiny dose of a radioactive tracer, followed by a painless imaging procedure called SPECT (single photon emission computed tomography), to search for dopamine transporters (DaT). Dopamine, a brain chemical responsible for movement control diminishes in patients with Parkinson’s disease causing tremor, slowness of movement, muscle stiffness and balance problems. The tracer binds to the dopamine transporters and the scan produces images that provide visual evidence of the presence of dopamine transporters. The entire procedure requires three to four hours.

“A normal image resembles two large commas or crescents in the brain,” said Dr. Hart. “Because dopamine levels drop in patients with Parkinson’s disease and other Parkinsonian syndromes, one or both of the normal crescents is not visible or may appear more like a period or oval.”

While a diagnosis of Parkinson’s syndromes presents a challenge, the confirmation of the correct diagnosis can make a difference in treatment and progression of the disease.

“DaTscan studies show upwards of 90 percent accuracy in diagnosing early, mid and late stages of Parkinson’s disease,” said Dr. Hart. “When presented with more reliable diagnostic data from the DaTscan, studies show that the treating physician alters his choice of treatment more than 40 percent of the time. This evidence based affect on clinical management is important because it shows that the procedure leads to more appropriate treatment for improved outcomes.”

More definitive testing may avoid or end years of expensive testing for a conclusive diagnosis, which can be delayed for as many as six years. Clinical examinations, particularly early in the disease when symptoms are slight, can be inconclusive or misleading. Incorrectly labeling Parkinson’s syndromes as an unrelated movement disorder, such as essential tremor, can delay effective treatment.

“‘Knowledge is power,’ especially in the case of medical conditions,” said Dr. Hart. “This test helps patients and their families face, and overcome the fears and frustrations inherent with uncertain diagnoses. If we can confirm that a patient does not have Parkinson’s disease, or Parkinson’s syndromes, it is a big relief. Confirmation of Parkinson’s disease is just as critical to know because it helps the patient and family members plan for the future.”

About Orlando Health

Orlando Health and Physician Associates Sign Affiliation Agreement

9/30/2011 12:00:00 AM

Orlando, FL (September 30, 2011) - Orlando Health and Physician Associates have signed an affiliation agreement that will improve patients' access to primary care physicians, enhance the quality of care they receive, and better coordinate care between the in-patient and out-patient setting. The non-exclusive agreement became official July 1, 2011.

Through the affiliation agreement, efforts are currently underway to implement programs to address the four most costly chronic diseases facing Americans and Central Floridians: diabetes, hypertension, congestive heart failure and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Patients who suffer from these ailments will be part of a joint initiative between Orlando Health and Physician Associates designed to better manage their symptoms to avoid episodic hospital visits.

"The role of the primary care physician is immensely important in providing healthcare that helps keep patients healthy," said Jennifer Endicott, vice president, clinical integration, Orlando Health Physician Partners. "This affiliation agreement makes it possible for us to work more closely with Physician Associates, as well as our own primary care practices, to provide timely and seamless care to patients."

This new agreement also encourages primary care practices to become accredited as patient-centered medical homes (PCMH) through the National Committee for Quality Assurance (NCQA). A PCMH is especially helpful to patients who might require additional services such as those provided by social workers or dieticians in order to maintain their health. This could include patients who are elderly, suffer from chronic disease, or reside in strained social situations.

"As we move toward becoming a patient-centered medical home, physicians and hospital must work more closely together," said Erik Walker, M.D., Chairman of the Board of Directors of Physician Associates. "Our goal through this new affiliation is to broaden patients' access to primary care, enhance care coordination and patient satisfaction, and ultimately, improve our patients' health."

Furthermore, the agreement lays the foundation for development or modification of shared processes that will deliver higher quality, lower cost healthcare. These processes include a shared IT platform, shared medical data, establishing a primary care advisory board, and integrating the work performed by the organizations' hospitalists.

"Ultimately," added Endicott, "this agreement is about trying to keep patients healthy and when they must come into the hospital, reconnecting the care they receive as an Orlando Health patient with the care they receive from the specialists and primary care physicians at Physician Associates."

The affiliation agreement does not alter the status of Orlando Health, its primary care practices, or Physician Associates.

About Orlando Health
Orlando Health is a $1.7 billion not-for-profit health care organization and a community-based network of hospitals and care centers in the Orlando region. The organization, which includes the area's only Level One Trauma Centers for adults and pediatrics, is a statutory teaching hospital system that offers both specialty and community hospitals. They are: Orlando Regional Medical Center; Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children; Winnie Palmer Hospital for Women & Babies; Dr. P. Phillips Hospital; South Seminole Hospital; South Lake Hospital (50 percent partnership); St. Cloud Regional Medical Center (20 percent partnership) and MD. Anderson Cancer Center Orlando - the first affiliate of one of the nation's premier cancer centers The University of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center in Houston. Orlando Health's areas of clinical excellence are heart and vascular, cancer care, neurosciences, surgery, pediatric orthopedics and sports medicine, neonatology, and obstetrics and gynecology.

About Physician Associates
Based in Orlando, Physician Associates is a private practice group of 37 family medicine physicians, seven internal medicine physicians, 23 pediatricians, 15 obstetric/gynecologists, two orthopaedic surgeons, two podiatrists, five hospitalists and one pediatric gastroenterologist, serving the health needs of infants, children, adults and seniors at 19 locations throughout Orange, Osceola, Seminole and Lake counties. Physician Associates' mission is to provide patients with the highest quality medical services within an atmosphere of genuine care. The group's goal is to promote health through patient-focused services and a commitment to patient and doctor relationships. To schedule an appointment or for more information, visit www.paof.com.

Orlando Health supports efforts to battle community’s leading health threat

9/28/2011 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, Fla. (September 26, 2011) --- More than 2,035 Orlando Health team walkers took steps to improve the community’s heart health on September 17 when they participated in the American Heart Association’s Heart Walk, held at Loch Haven Park. Orlando Health ranked second overall as a top fundraising company, contributing more than $151,000 to fight heart disease and stroke, the No. 1 and No. 3 killers of Americans. Orlando Regional Medical Center's Patty’s Heroes team ranked fifth among all teams, raising $11,286 with 47 participants.

“Heart disease and stroke are our nation’s leading killers and impact our local community as well,” said Shannon Elswick, senior vice president and president, adult hospitals group, Orlando Health and executive champion for Heart Walk. “Joining the American Heart Association and others in the community was an opportunity for us to educate the community about the diseases and prevention and raise funds for research and programs.”

In addition to the walk, teams participated in various fun and effective activities to reach the organization’s goal. Some of the unique fundraising activities included a GIGANTIC Garage Sale which raised more than $5,000; a dunk tank with executive leaders; a talent show; and heart healthy bake sales. Some teams incorporated fitness by performing a number of pushups or cart wheels based on donations.

Together Orlando Health teams joined more than 100 area businesses and other participants to help Central Florida’s largest community walk set another campaign record — raising funds that met the $1.2 million goal.

About Orlando Health

Orlando Health launches Scripts To Go

9/27/2011 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, Fla. (September 27, 2011) --- Clinicians are asking Orlando Health patients a new question before discharge — “Would you like your medications before leaving?” Scripts To Go is a new patient prescription program available at the organization’s downtown campus that offers bedside delivery for patients’ medications before being released from their hospital stays.

“Taking care of patients after they are discharged is just as important as caring for them when they are in the hospital and is critical to improving their quality of life,” said Ben Kelly, RPh, MBA, pharmacist and director for Orlando Health downtown outpatient pharmacies.

When patients remain healthy after discharge they are less likely to return to hospital emergency departments for the same reasons as their initial visits.

“Research has indicated the two major reasons for hospital readmissions are lack of medications and lack of follow up appointments with doctors,” said Kelly. “Scripts To Go is an initiative to help ensure patients have the medications needed to stay well and decrease readmissions for the same conditions.”

With Scripts To Go, patients can start their medications as soon as they arrive home without interruption of care and with no need to stop at the pharmacy. The program was developed in response to patients’ needs.

“As a pharmacist it’s not uncommon to receive calls from patients once they were home and realized their community pharmacy would have to order their medications or they discovered prior authorization was needed or there were other challenges with filling prescriptions,” said Kelly. “Using Scripts To Go can identify challenges like needed prior authorization or higher unexpected co-payments. In turn we are able to offer solutions to patients – a hospitalist can more immediately provide the authorization needed or we can refer patients to internal or external prescriptions assistance program.”

Scripts To Go is a very simple process for patients. Patients are able to inform the pre-registration nurse or the admitting staff or before discharge they are able to inform their nurse, case manager or doctor they would like to use the service. The caregiver forwards the prescription along with insurance information to the pharmacy. The medication is delivered to the patient room or patients (or family members) have the option to pick it up before they leave the hospital.

In addition to prescription medications, Scripts To Go offers a selection of products including: over-the-counter medications, nutritional products, diabetes supplies, rehabilitation products, blood pressure monitors, nebulizers, wound care, and ostomy supplies.

Currently the program is offered seven days a week, (Mondays - Fridays, 8:30 a.m. - 9 p.m., and Saturdays and Sundays, 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.), at Orlando Regional Medical Center, Arnold Palmer Hospital and Winnie Palmer Hospital. Pharmacy staff works directly with health care providers to process insurances and co-payments.

About Orlando Health

Rock Pink® Donation Brings Unique Benefits to Cancer Patients at MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando

9/26/2011 12:00:00 AM

MEDIA CONTACT

Rock Pink
David Sackett
407.864.7861
mohawk@rockpink.com

ORLANDO, FL. (September 26, 2011) - Rock Pink, a 501(c)(3) charitable organization whose mission is to raise breast health awareness and support local breast cancer charities, has donated Apple iPads to MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando to serve cancer patients undergoing treatment. The donations are part of Rock Pink's music and humanity initiative.

The 10 Apple iPads donated by Rock Pink will provide patients at MD Anderson - Orlando the opportunity to watch television and movies, stream live music, play games, read books, and surf the Web all in the hopes of offering a positive distraction during chemotherapy, radiation, and other difficult cancer treatment sessions. Rock Pink Roster Bands megaphone, Traverser, and Tina Nicole Band, amongst others, donated their albums for the music and humanity project and will be featured on the iPads.

"Given the commitment of MD Anderson - Orlando to do everything possible to provide the highest level of quality and compassionate care to cancer patients," said Mark Hollamon, Rock Pink Founder, "a partnership with Rock Pink was a natural fit. We look forward to giving more in the future and intend to be a long-time supporter of MD Anderson - Orlando."

"We are very appreciative of Rock Pink's donation of this technology which will certainly benefit our patients undergoing cancer treatment," said Clarence Brown, III, MD, President and CEO, MD Anderson - Orlando. "We know that the fight to beat cancer depends upon patients maintaining a strong positive attitude. The entertainment that these iPads will provide will certainly bring many smiles to the brave faces of cancer patients who walk through our doors."

MD Anderson Orlando patient Jose Guzman, undergoing chemotherapy,
helps pass the time by enjoying games and music on an iPad donated by Rock Pink.

About Rock Pink
Rock Pink is a 501(c)(3) charitable organization that is on a mission to bring music and humanity together center stage while raising breast health awareness and supporting local breast cancer programs. Organizations like Libby's Legacy, the Young Survival Coalition, Florida Hospital's Eden Spa, and MD Anderson - Orlando are among those who have received financial and volunteer support from Rock Pink. Rock Pink has reached out to hundreds of thousands of Central Floridians, spreading the message "Get to Know Your Breasts" through musical events, social gatherings and partnerships with local organizations and media. Rock Pink is a volunteer organization; no salaries or benefits are received by any member of the Board or volunteers. For more info: RockPink.com.

MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando
MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando, part of Orlando Health, is affiliated with The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center in Houston. U.S. News & World Report recently ranked M. D. Anderson Cancer Center as the top cancer treatment center in the U.S. and has ranked it as one of the top two cancer centers for the past 13 years. Orlando Health, a 1,882-bed community-owned, Florida not-for-profit organization established in 1918, annually serves nearly 2 million Central Florida residents and more than 4,500 international patients. More information is available at www.mdacco.com.

MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando's Chief Announces Retirement

9/22/2011 12:00:00 AM

Orlando, FL - September 22, 2011 -After more than 36 years of service to the Central Florida medical community, Clarence H. "Buck" Brown III, M.D., will retire as President and CEO of MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando at the end of 2012. Dr. Brown has been at the helm as the leader of MD Anderson - Orlando since the facility opened its doors to the public twenty years ago becoming the first outreach program of the world famous MD Anderson in Houston and bringing internationally renowned cancer care to Central Floridians.

Under Dr. Brown's leadership and guidance MD Anderson - Orlando has provided cancer care and hope to more than 75,000 patients and continues to grow using the most advanced cancer fighting technology and treatments to beat the disease. Now, twenty years later, the cancer center has grown to more than 50 full-time employed and 14 contracted physicians on staff and more than 420 employees. In addition, the number of new patients each year has doubled with approximately 5,000 new patients visiting the cancer center each year.

"We are so appreciative of Dr. Brown's commitment to this community and his many contributions to Orlando Health and MD Anderson - Orlando over the years," said Sherrie Sitarik, President and CEO, Orlando Health. "We wish him all the best as he embarks on this next phase of his life and his exciting new role with the Orlando Health Foundation."

Following his retirement as President and CEO of MD Anderson - Orlando, Dr. Brown will move into a new role with Orlando Health as President Emeritus of MD Anderson - Orlando and Vice President of Development, Orlando Health Foundation. In his new role, Dr. Brown will join the foundation's development team and continue to support Orlando Health's oncology programs.

Editor's Note: Dr. Brown's complete biography is available upon request.

MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando
MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando, part of Orlando Health, is affiliated with The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center in Houston. U.S. News & World Report recently ranked MD Anderson Cancer Center as the top cancer treatment center in the U.S. and has ranked it as one of the top two cancer centers for the past 13 years. Orlando Health, a 1,882-bedcommunity-owned, Florida not-for-profit organization established in 1918, annually serves nearly 2 million Central Florida residents and more than 4,500 international patients. More information is available at www.mdacco.com.

VHA Recognizes Orlando Health for Successes in Transition Services

9/16/2011 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, Fla. (September 15, 2011) --- Orlando Health has been recognized as a health care leader in Transition Services by VHA Inc. a national network of not-for-profit health care organizations working together to improve clinical and economic performance. The organization’s model will serve as roadmap to others as part of VHA’s Leading Practice Blueprints™ that capture and explain leading health care practices in a visual format that includes clinical, engineering, social science and design components.

Orlando Health’s Transition Services manages the coordination of continued care after a patient’s hospital discharge. Key components include: Visiting Nurse Association, the home health division, and Orlando Health Housecalls, a home-based physician practice as well as several other innovative programs.

“We are honored to be recognized among the best practices in health care,” said David Sylvester, Vice President, Post Acute and Transition Services for Orlando Health. “Our successes reflect years of collaborative efforts of clinicians, social workers, other committed team members and leadership to put patients first, and ensure safe and effective discharge planning for the continued health and wellness of our patients.”

The hospital’s Transition Services include several programs to improve health outcomes and efficiency of care, reduce the cost of health care services, reduce preventable hospitalization and reduce hospital-readmissions. Programs include Telemedicine Heart Failure Monitoring Technology (an in-home service) that alerts nurses to changes in vital signs so appropriate steps can be taken; Medication at Bedside Pre-discharge Delivery Service; Spiritual Care Home Volunteers; and Social Work Field Unit.

VHA Inc., based in Irving, Texas, is a national network of not-for-profit health care organizations that work together to drive maximum savings in the supply chain arena, set new levels of clinical performance and identify and implement best practices to improve operational efficiency and clinical outcomes. In 2010, VHA delivered record savings and value of $1.7 billion to members. Formed in 1977, VHA serves nearly 1,350 not-for-profit hospitals and more than 30,000 non-acute care providers nationwide, coordinating delivery of its programs and services through its 16 regional offices.

About Orlando Health

Paddles Up! Orlando Health Gets On Board With Dragon Boating

9/9/2011 12:00:00 AM

Dragon boating is the fastest growing water sport in North America, and for the second year in a row Orlando Health is proud to bring this sport to its employees and to the community. What is the fun all about? Hear directly from Orlando Health executives, physicians, nurses and employees about why they have fallen in love with this team sport and how you can get involved. The 4th Annual Walgreens Orlando International Dragon Boat Festival is October 15 at Downtown Disney. Proceeds benefit MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando through Women Playing For T.I.M.E. (Technology, Immediate diagnosis, Mammography, Education).

For more information log on to www.wpft.org or contact
Lynda Canatay, Orlando Health Foundation,
321-841-2272
Lynda.canatay@orlandohealth.com

Orlando Health Rehabilitation Institute uses theme park ride-like technology to improve balance, prevent falls

8/29/2011 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, Fla. (August 29, 2011) --- It may feel like an amusement park ride, but it’s really innovative technology to restore balance in patients and keep them on their feet. Physical therapists at Orlando Health are using SMART EquiTest® — a system that provides an objective assessment of balance control and stability along with training exercises to treat patients after a stroke, traumatic brain injury, total knee or hip replacement and other medical conditions. The technology can also identify patients at risk for falls.

The EquiTest uses interactive technology inside equipment that looks similar to an oversized phone booth. The walls, which shift forward and backward, have a mural type design of the sky, clouds and mountains. The floor, which moves in various directions, has a special platform embedded.

“Balance problems are common – approximately 90 million Americans suffer from imbalance and dizziness over their lifetime,” said Marissa Conrad, MS, PT, physical therapist, Rehabilitation Institute. “The EquiTest challenges, tests and treats a patient’s balance impairments in novel ways. The system uses technology that assesses a patient’s fall risk and overall balance control to help therapists gain a better understanding of balance deficits and pinpoint specific problem areas in a way not possible before.”

For example, a patient may be asked to stand as steadily as possible on the platform. The platform has sensors that measure how well the patient is able to maintain their balance as the walls move around them and the platform moves under their feet.

The series of tests quickly help measure how well a patient maintains their balance under different conditions similar to everyday living activities such as reaching for a glass from a cabinet, placing a book on a top shelf or walking at night.

Balance has three components: the ability to sense your feet, legs, arms and know where your body is in space; vision – what you see; and the vestibular system including your inner ear and brain.

Tests may be performed with eyes open and with eyes closed and patients are supported by a safety harness throughout the testing. Patients perform tasks which are measured and compared to age and gender related norms. Results isolate different components used for balance, helping therapists focus on problem areas in the development of individual treatment plans. The evaluation also provides a baseline for retesting to track progress with balance.

“In addition to testing, this system provides treatment programs which can challenge a patient’s balance to strengthen muscles, promote improved motor control as well as vestibular functioning; all which contribute to decreased fall risk and improved mobility,” said Conrad. “The training is performed with the specific impairments and functional limitations identified in the initial testing in mind to help develop more efficient treatment programs and a faster recovery time.”

About Orlando Health

Orlando Health creates new position focused on quality

8/29/2011 12:00:00 AM

Orlando, FL (August 24, 2011) - Orlando Health has created a new executive level position focused on enhancing quality healthcare to patients. Jamal Hakim, M.D. has been appointed to the new position of Chief Quality/Transformation M.D. In this new role, Dr. Hakim will report to Sherrie Sitarik, president/CEO of Orlando Health and will be responsible for working with the organization's board of directors, leadership and medical staff to further develop and implement the organizational quality plan.

"Providing quality healthcare to patients has always been our top priority," said Sitarik. "With healthcare reform's new reporting requirements, coupled with our own efforts to improve reporting of our quality measurements to the community, we realized we needed someone with Dr. Hakim's experience to lead this important effort. We are extremely pleased that he has accepted this new challenge."

Dr. Hakim will work collaboratively with Orlando Health's Chief of Staff, Mark Sand, M.D. and Vice President of Patient Care Services, Anne Peach, to ensure that the organization's medical staff and all team members strive for excellence in patient quality, safety and service.

"This new role is evidence of Orlando Health's commitment to creating a patient-first clinically integrated new model of care," said Hakim. "Creating this position gets us one step closer to our goal of providing seamless, quality outcome-driven extraordinary care to patients. I look forward to the challenge."

Dr. Hakim received his B.S. in Chemistry from Duke University, completed Medical School at Indiana University, and did his Residency at the University of Florida. He is Board Certified in Anesthesiology, and is an active member of the Society of Obstetric Anesthesia and Perinatology. Dr. Hakim, who has been on staff at Orlando Health since 1991, is the immediate past Chief of Staff, and is the Director of Anesthesia for Women's Services at Arnold Palmer Medical Center (APMC).

Over the years, Dr. Hakim has served Orlando Health in a variety of positions, including Chairman of the APMC anesthesia department, Chairman of the APMC Leadership Committee, Chairman of the Credentials Committee, Vice Chief of Staff, Co-chairman of the Quality Strategy Committee and has been a member of the Board of Trustees since 2007.

About Orlando Health

Orlando Health is a $1.7 billion not-for-profit health care organization and a community-based network of hospitals and care centers in the Orlando region. The organization, which includes the area's only Level One Trauma Centers for adults and pediatrics, is a statutory teaching hospital system that offers both specialty and community hospitals. They are: Orlando Regional Medical Center; Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children; Winnie Palmer Hospital for Women & Babies; Dr. P. Phillips Hospital; South Seminole Hospital; South Lake Hospital (50 percent partnership); St. Cloud Regional Medical Center (20 percent partnership) and M. D. Anderson Cancer Center Orlando - the first affiliate of one of the nation's premier cancer centers The University of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center in Houston. Orlando Health's areas of clinical excellence are heart and vascular, cancer care, neurosciences, surgery, pediatric orthopedics and sports medicine, neonatology, and obstetrics and gynecology.

MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando Welcomes New Oncologists

8/25/2011 12:00:00 AM

Orlando, FL – August 24, 2011

Susan Constantino, MD, joins the hematology/medical oncology department in the specialty of breast cancer, following a three year fellowship at MD Anderson – Orlando . She completed an internal medicine residency at Creighton University Medical Center in Omaha, Nebraska.

Daniel Landau, MD joins the hematology/medical oncology department in the specialty of genitourinary cancer and malignant hematology following a three year fellowship at MD Anderson – Orlando. He completed an internal medicine residency at University of South Florida, College of Medicine in Tampa.

Rebecca Moroose, MD joins the hematology/medical oncology department in the specialty of breast cancer. Dr. Moroose has recently been full time faculty at the University of Central Florida College of Medicine and was formerly the medical director of the Florida Hospital Cancer Institute in Orlando. She completed an internal medicine residency and her fellowship at the University of Connecticut Health Center in Farmington, Connecticut.

Rajesh Nair, MD joins the surgical oncology team with special interest in intraperitoneal chemotherapy following three years with Orlando Regional Medical Center’s department of surgery. He completed a general surgery residency at ORMC and was a surgical oncology fellow at H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center & Research Institute in Tampa.

Theolyn Price, MD joins the thoracic surgical oncology section of the department of surgery. She completed her residency in general surgery and fellowship at the Mayo Graduate School of Medicine in Rochester, Minnesota.

Asad Sheikh, MD joins the hematology/medical oncology department following a fellowship at the Medical College of Georgia. He completed an internal medicine residency at the University of Florida. Dr. Sheikh will be based at the MD Anderson – Orlando offices at South Seminole Hospital.

Amy Smith, MD joins the pediatric hematology/oncology department in the specialty of neuro-oncology. Dr. Smith has recently been on the faculty of the University of Florida in Gainesville, Florida. She completed her residency in pediatrics and fellowship in hematology/oncology/bone marrow transplantation at the University of Colorado Health Sciences Center in Denver, Colorado.

Damita Thomas, MD joins the nuclear medicine department following employment at the Queen’s Medical Center/John A. Burns School of Medicine in Honolulu, Hawaii. She completed her residency in general surgery at the University of Florida, Shands Jacksonville and residency in nuclear medicine at the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics in Iowa City, Iowa.

Sajeve Thomas, MD joins the hematology/medical oncology department in the specialty of melanoma/sarcoma and endocrine cancers following a fellowship at the University of Florida. Dr. Thomas completed an internal medicine residency at the University of South Florida in Tampa.

Kohl's Donates $313,602 to Arnold Palmer Hospital for Youth Sports Injury Prevention

8/23/2011 12:00:00 AM

Orlando, Fla. (August 22, 2011) - Kohl's and Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children are teaming up to prevent injuries in young athletes throughout Central Florida. The Kohl's Cares® program has donated $313,602 to continue supporting the Play It Forward program which it has funded since its inception at the hospital's Pediatric Sports Medicine Center.

Since 2007, Kohl's has donated $934,127.12 to Arnold Palmer Hospital through the Kohl's Cares® merchandise program, where net profits from the sale of special merchandise supports children's health and education programs.

"We're honored to have the support of Kohl's as we look to provide great medical care to the young athletes of Central Florida," states Jay Albright, M.D., Medical Director of the Pediatric Sports Medicine Program at Arnold Palmer Hospital. "By educating coaches, parents, and young athletes on safe practice, training, and game play techniques, we can help lower the incidence of sports-related injuries and encourage our kids to enjoy sports safely."

Each year, more than 3.5 million children in the U.S. under age 15 are treated for sports injuries. Twenty-six percent of Central Florida's population is under the age of 18 and many of these children play year-round sports. This translates into a large number of sports injuries in the region.

Play It Forward is designed to meet the growing needs of active children in Central Florida by sending sports medicine professionals into the community to instruct coaches, parents and children on safe training, how to decrease risk of injury, and how to treat minor injuries.

Since its inception in 2008, Play It Forward has certified 888 coaches and parents in Central Florida in cardio-pulmonary resuscitation; provided various forms of injury prevention education to more than 20,000 people; and, provided medical attention for more than 13,500 athletes participating in underserved athletic events. Additionally, 131 local athletes have participated in Play It Forward's jump training program called Sportsmetrics, which reduces the incidence of torn anterior cruciate ligaments in young female athletes.

A check presentation took place before the first Orlando City Soccer playoff match at the Citrus Bowl on Saturday, August 20, 2011 at 7:30 P.M. Photos and video of the check presentation are available upon request.

Orlando Health event raises awareness, philanthropic support for Central Florida’s Only Level One Trauma Center

8/10/2011 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, Fla. (August 9, 2011) --- The Orlando Health Foundation’s ONE NIGHT^SM event, with a sold-out crowd of 700, netted $260,000 for the Orlando Regional Medical Center (ORMC) Level One Trauma Center. The sixth annual event, presented by CNL Financial Group, Inc., was held May 16 in the Grand Court at The Mall at Millenia.

The ONE NIGHT program included an in-person testimonial and video presentation of an up-close look at a trauma survivor’s story and the clinical experts who provide critical care. This year’s survivor story featured David Humes, a 46-year-old Melbourne resident, who survived a diving incident that left him with a broken neck and quadriplegia. Humes was treated at ORMC’s trauma center and received a rarely used device – a diaphragmatic pacemaker, which enabled him to go to rehabilitation and live at home instead of using a respirator and living in an assisted living facility.

While raising critical funds for the trauma center, ONE NIGHT also increased awareness of the difference between trauma and emergency care. The level of “readiness” of a trauma center makes the most of the golden hour - the first 60 minutes after a traumatic injury occurs when surgical intervention can greatly decrease mortality rates and significantly improve quality of life. For example, surgical intervention within the golden hour has been shown to lower mortality rates by 20 to 30 percent and improve quality of life by as much as 85 percent.

A team of 15 to 20 doctors and other clinicians performing life-saving trauma care within the golden hour entails extraordinary resources 24 hours a day, seven days a week. While the cost of this level of “readiness” is great – about $18 million a year – it often makes the difference between life and death.

Traumatic injury is the leading cause of death for children over age one and adults under 45, and accounts for more years of life lost than heart attacks, cancer and stroke combined. Last year, ORMC saw over 4,000 trauma patients, making Central Florida’s only Level One Trauma Center among the busiest in the nation.

About Orlando Health

Dr. P. Phillips Hospital is Going Green Thumb!

7/13/2011 12:00:00 AM

Check out Dr. P. Phillips Hospital’s employee newsletter “Going Greener” for a Florida Vegetable Gardening Guide to help you make the most of our year round growing season. In this edition read more about our involvement with the National Building Competition and 6-ways you can become an Energy Star.

Click for more information.

How is Dr. P. Phillips Hospital Going Greener? Read all about it!

7/6/2011 12:00:00 AM

Dr. P. Phillips Hospital’s employee newsletter “Going Greener” features an update on the hospital’s participation in the EPA's ENERGY STAR National Building Competition and much more. In this edition read more about the impact of incandescent light bulbs, how the hospital is turning duds into suds and helpful do-it-yourself tips to reduce the energy used for the heating and cooling of your home.

Click for more information.

MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando on Cutting Edge of Battling Lung Cancer

7/1/2011 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, FL. (July 1, 2011) – A MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando pilot program for lung cancer screening is expected to gain momentum, following the publication of a recent study in The New England Journal of Medicine. On June 1st, MD Anderson – Orlando’s Rod Taylor Thoracic Care Center in conjunction with the Cancer Medicine Department was the first in Central Florida to launch the pilot screening program targeting smokers. The pilot program for current or former smokers age 55-74 was based on a study by the National Lung Screening Trial that showed that CT screenings detect lung cancer early and succeeded in cutting lung cancer deaths by 20%. The results from this landmark study have now been published in The New England Journal of Medicine, bringing additional attention to the fight against lung cancer.

“This is a tremendous step forward for those of us on the frontline fighting lung cancer,” said Clarence Brown III, MD, President and CEO of MD Anderson – Orlando. “We hope this additional attention on lung cancer will make current or former smokers sit up and take notice. We hope by providing our pilot program to patients who are most at risk for developing lung cancer that we will be able to identify cancer cases earlier and in turn save lives.”

The screenings through MD Anderson – Orlando involve low dose radiation CT scan to detect suspicious nodules which appear earlier on CT scans than they do on chest X-rays. Research shows that better cure rates occur when lung cancer is detected and treated in its earliest phase. MD Anderson – Orlando oncologists estimate that 20% of those screened may need further study and 2% will need treatment for lung cancer. A team of experts will evaluate the results of these screenings to determine the best course of action for each patient.

MD Anderson – Orlando is offering the CT scans at a discounted rate of $375. CT Scans usually run around $1500. To be eligible for this pilot screening program you must be over the age of 50 and have smoked one pack a day for 30 years or more. The screening will include a medical consultation, risk assessment, CT scan and follow up consultation.

Call 321-841-6600 for more information or to schedule your appointment today.

Read more about this study at The New England Journal of Medicine
Access more information about the National Lung Screening Trial

MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando
MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando, part of Orlando Health, is affiliated with The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center in Houston. U.S. News & World Report recently ranked MD Anderson Cancer Center as the top cancer treatment center in the U.S. and has ranked it as one of the top two cancer centers for the past 13 years. Orlando Health, a 1,882-bed community-owned, Florida not-for-profit organization established in 1918, annually serves nearly 2 million Central Florida residents and more than 4,500 international patients. More information is available at www.mdacco.com.

ORMC Level One Trauma Center offers driving course to keep teen drivers safe on the road

5/26/2011 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, Fla (May 26, 2011) --- OMG Orlando Health is helping parents and the community put the brakes on teens talking and texting while driving. The Orlando Regional Medical Center (ORMC) Level One Trauma Center is offering teens and parents a free teen driving safety course – Drive with CARE. ORMC is launching the course in recognition of Trauma Awareness Month and the start of the summer travel season.

Drive with CARE (Courtesy, Attention, Responsibility, Experience), developed in collaboration with the Florida Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles and the Florida Department of Transportation, is a 45-minute course of interactive lecture and videos designed to support teens in developing safer driving habits and parents to teach safer driving habits to their children by providing education about the dangers of driving while distracted.

“From talking and texting on a mobile phone to conversations with friends inside the car, there are several potential distractions for teen drivers that can lead to critical injuries or even death,” said Wendy Kimelman RN, BSN, trauma program coordinator. “Our objective is to help individuals, schools, church groups and community organizations spread the word about safety while driving.”

Last year, ORMC saw more than 4,000 trauma patients, making the trauma center among the busiest in the nation. The majority of trauma patients at ORMC are from motor-vehicle related incidences.

“As a Level One Trauma Center, our goal is to not only treat critical injuries, but to also help prevent traumatic events from occurring,” said John Promes, MD, trauma medical director, ORMC. “Eliminating calls, texts, emails and web surfing abilities will help teens focus on driving, keeping themselves and others more safe.”

ORMC hopes the Drive with CARE program will help reduce motor-vehicle related incidences and keep younger drivers safer on the roads.

“As an organization comprised of more than 14,000 team members, we sometimes find ourselves taking care of our team or their families as patients,” said Tim Bullard, MD, chief medical officer, Business Development, Innovation, ORMC. “The recent death of a team member’s son reminded us of the need to take extra steps to help keep younger drivers safe on the roads. We want to begin the initiative in his honor and help others.”

The course, led by ORMC team members is available at no cost to schools, churches and other community organizations. To schedule a Drive with CARE course, visit myormc.com/drivewithcare or contact Wendy Kimelman at 321.841.3859.

About Orlando Health

The World of High School Track & Field Focuses on Orlando for 35th Annual Bert M. Warden Golden South Classic Presented by adidas®

5/24/2011 12:00:00 AM

Orlando, Fla (May 24, 2011) – America’s brightest high school track and field athletes are zeroing in on Central Florida for the 35th Annual Bert M. Warden Golden South Classic presented by adidas®.

The nationally-recognized competition, which benefits the Pediatric Sports Medicine Program at Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children, will be held Saturday, May 28, at The First Academy (2667 Bruton Boulevard, Orlando, Florida, 32805). Events will begin at 11:00 A.M.

In its 35th year, the Golden South Classic will feature a number of enhancements for athletes and spectators. The event has been named one of three meets in the prestigious adidas® Golden Stripes series, which means winners in the men’s and women’s mile and 100-meter races will be invited to compete in the adidas® Dream Mile and Dream 100, where the top high school sprinters and milers from around the country will gather in New York City this summer for a race to determine the nation’s fastest.

The Golden South Classic began as a local event in 1976 and has grown into one of the country’s most prestigious high school track and field events. It has produced more than 35 Olympians, with 12 of those winning Olympic gold. Because of this notoriety, athletes from all over the southeast have competed in the event, along with competitors from Canada, the Bahamas, Mexico, the Turks and Caicos Islands, and South America.

This year’s event is expected to draw more than 500 athletes and will include some of the top names in high school track and field:

Octavious Freeman (Lake Wales, Florida) is the number one-ranked girl in the country in the 100-meter race by Track & Field News and holds three Florida state titles.
Marvin Bracy (Boone High School, Orlando) has run the fastest time (10.28) in 2011 in the boys’ 100-meter race according to Track & Field News.
Robin Reynolds is one of the top-ranked female sprinters in the country by Track & Field News and has one of the fastest times in the 100-meter dash (11.67).

For more information, including athlete commitments, directions, and schedule, please visit: www.goldensouth.com.

Media interested in attending and covering the Golden South Classic on Saturday, May 28 should contact:

Geo.morales@orlandohealth.com

Arnold Palmer Hospital For Children

Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children, supported by the Arnold Palmer Medical Center Foundation, is a 158-bed facility dedicated exclusively to the needs of children. Located in Orlando, Arnold Palmer Hospital provides expertise in pediatric specialties such as cardiac care, craniomaxillofacial surgery, emergency and trauma care, gastroenterology, nephrology, neurology, oncology, orthopedics, pulmonology and sports medicine. Visit www.arnoldpalmerhospital.com to learn more about all of our specialties.

Arnold Palmer Medical Center Ranks Among America’s Best Children’s Hospitals by U.S. News & World Report

5/18/2011 12:00:00 AM

Orlando, FL (May 17, 2011) – Arnold Palmer Medical Center has been ranked in two specialties in U.S. News Media Group’s Best Children’s Hospitals rankings, now available online at usnews.com/childrenshospitals.

Arnold Palmer Medical Center ranked 38th in orthopedics and 40th in cardiology and heart surgery. It was the only hospital in Central Florida to be included in the rankings.

“We’re very proud to be included among the best in this year’s Best Children’s Hospitals rankings,” stated John Bozard, president, Arnold Palmer Medical Center. “The rankings are a valuable tool for Central Florida parents and caretakers looking for the best healthcare for their kids.”

The new rankings recognize the top 50 children’s hospitals in 10 specialties: cancer, cardiology and heart surgery, diabetes and endocrinology, gastroenterology, neonatology, nephrology, neurology and neurosurgery, orthopedics, pulmonology, and urology. Seventy-six hospitals are ranked in at least one specialty.

Now in its fifth year, Best Children’s Hospitals pulls together clinical and operational data from a lengthy survey, completed by the majority of the 177 hospitals asked to participate for the 2011-12 rankings. The survey asks hundreds of questions about survival rates, nurse staffing, subspecialist availability, and many more pieces of critical information difficult or impossible for those in charge of a child’s care to find on their own. The data from the survey is combined with recommendations from pediatric specialists on the hospitals they consider best for children with challenging problems.

Arnold Palmer Hospital For Children

Dr. P. Phillips Hospital to Compete in the 2011 ENERGY STAR National Building Competition

5/2/2011 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, FL. (May 2, 2011) – Dr. P. Phillips Hospital has been selected to participate in the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA's) ENERGY STAR National Building Competition: Battle of the Buildings to help improve the energy efficiency of commercial buildings and protect the environment. In the spirit of popular weight-loss competitions, Dr. P. Phillips Hospital will battle it out against hundreds of other teams from buildings across the country to work off the waste through improvements in energy efficiency with help from EPA’s ENERGY STAR program.

"Our hospital is honored to be a part of EPA’s ENERGY STAR National Building Competition,” said Mark Jones, President, Dr. P. Phillips Hospital. "We are committed to improving our energy efficiency and excited that our entire team here at Dr. P. Phillips Hospital is on board for this important project.”

The 2011 ENERGY STAR National Building Competition includes 245 teams from 26 different types of commercial buildings - such as retail stores, schools, hotels, and museums - that hail from 33 states. Dr. P. Phillips Hospital is one 21 competitors in Florida and one of 10 hospitals nationwide.

Competitors will measure and track their building's monthly energy consumption over the next two months, with a small group of buildings selected as finalists in July. Among the finalists, the building that demonstrates the greatest percentage-based reduction in energy use intensity will be recognized as the winner this November.

Dr. P. Phillips Hospital has partnered with ecoPreserve, a sustainability, building certification and operational efficiency consulting firm to reduce energy usage through behavioral changes and systems upgrades. The hospital is moving forward on a series of efficiency upgrades including:

Full building lighting upgrade including the replacement of regular bulbs with compact fluorescent light bulbs
Installation of smart fixtures, such as motion sensors, throughout the 550,000 square foot facility
Smart building metering and energy monitoring dashboard
Chiller plant optimization, the use of new cooling methods to make the central energy plant more energy efficient
Heat reducing window film
Be an Energy Star! – employee engagement program

According to EPA, energy use in commercial buildings accounts for nearly 20 percent of total U.S. greenhouse gas emissions and energy use at a cost of more than $100 billion per year. On average, 30% of the energy used in commercial buildings is wasted. Thousands of businesses and organizations work with EPA’s ENERGY STAR program and are saving billions of dollars and preventing millions of tons of greenhouse gas emissions from entering our atmosphere each year.

Watch the battle unfold: www.energystar.gov/BattleOfTheBuildings

ORMC appoints medical director for bariatric program

4/28/2011 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, Fla (April 28, 2011) --- Muhammad Jawad, MD, recently joined the Weight Loss (Bariatric) and Metabolic Program at Orlando Regional Medical Center, as the medical director. Board certified in general surgery, Dr. Jawad specializes in bariatric surgery.

Dr. Jawad has performed more than 4,300 bariatric surgeries including laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass, laparoscopic gastric banding and laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy procedures. With Dr. Jawad’s extensive experience in performing laparoscopic weight loss surgery for patients with higher body weights ORMC is now able to provide the surgery for patients weighing more than 500 pounds with a body mass index up to 65.

Outside of the operating room, Dr. Jawad’s 42-year medical career includes research, lectures and published journal articles.

His scope of research includes treatment of post-surgical pain. As a national and international lecturer, Dr. Jawad has spoken about various topics including prevention of complications in laparoscopic Rou-en-Y gastric bypass and diagnosis and management of acute abdominal conditions by laparoscopy. He has been published in medical journals such as Surgery for Obesity Related Disease, the official journal of the American Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery, covering a range of topics including laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding complications and outcomes.

Dr. Jawad is a member of the American College of Surgeons (fellow), American Society of Bariatric Surgeons, and the Society of Laparoscopic Surgeons.

About Orlando Health

MD Anderson - Orlando Carcinoma Patient Receives Prosthetic Ear

4/28/2011 12:00:00 AM

When William Sumpter was diagnosed with middle ear carcinoma three years ago, his focus was just to get cancer free. He successfully beat the cancer but lost his left ear in the process. Now he has taken a final step in his recovery and has received a prosthetic ear. William is one of the many cancer survivors who visit the MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando Head & Neck Clinic everyday with unique needs. Dr. Elizabeth Feldman, a MD Anderson - Orlando maxillofacial prosthodontist, works with Head & Neck cancer patients who have lost ears, noses, even parts of their tongue or need dental work as a result of their cancer. Dr. Feldman begins planning for the prosthesis from the time the patient is diagnosed and begins cancer treatment; making sure every step is in place to provide the patient with a prosthetic. Such intricate reconstruction is not something many head & neck cancer patients realize is an option, but for patients like William it is life altering.

"Head and neck is a very debilitating cancer," says Elizabeth Feldman, MS, DMD, MS. "When you go out in public the first thing people look at is our faces."

Watch William's story, meet Dr. Feldman and see the emotional moment when this patient receives his prosthetic ear at MD Anderson Orlando's Head & Neck Clinic.

MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando

ORMC combines new minimally invasive heart surgery with EP lab procedure to relieve abnormal heart rhythm condition

4/26/2011 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, Fla. (April 26, 2011) --- Surgeons and doctors at Orlando Regional Medical Center (ORMC) are bringing together the best of both worlds to treat patients with atrial fibrillation. Performing a new minimally invasive closed chest heart surgery, followed by an ablation procedure is giving patients a better chance at permanent relief from atrial fibrillation, an abnormal heart rhythm condition that causes fatigue and overall weakness that often results in a significant impact to quality of life — difficulty walking across the room or even preventing employment. ORMC is the first and only hospital in Orlando to offer the combined approach.

The new care option, known as a convergent or hybrid approach, begins with a cardiothoracic surgeon navigating a special catheter to reach the back side of the heart. Once the surgeon reaches the heart, a special surgical tool burns the areas of the heart that cause the bad rhythms. The burns are made in the shape of a square, boxing in the source of the irregular heartbeats, preventing them from interfering with other areas of the heart and ultimately restoring a normal heartbeat. This approach treats the area from the outside of the heart.

Cardiothoracic surgeons Jeffrey Bott, MD, and Gregory Simmons, MD, are now able to treat areas of the heart that were unreachable before. The heart is accessed through a tiny incision in the upper abdomen, compared to a traditional open heart surgery chest incision. Patients have shorter hospital stays and a quicker, less painful recovery. Dr. Bott is thoracic surgery chair at ORMC and Dr. Simmons is a cardiothoracic surgeon at ORMC.

Once the closed chest heart surgery is complete, an electrophysiologist performs a mapping procedure to identify and treat any other problem areas from the inside of the heart.

Electrophysiologists Roland Filart, MD, David Bello, MD, and Aurelio Duran, MD, insert a special catheter through the groin area to reach the upper chambers of the heart. Once inside the chambers, the area is isolated and the tissue where the bad rhythms occur is ablated or destroyed using radio frequency (heat) or a new Arctic Front technique that uses a coolant. Dr. Filart practices at ORMC, Dr. Bello is ORMC’s medical director of diagnostic cardiology and Dr. Duran is cardiology chair at ORMC.

Traditional heart surgery to treat the area or an ablation procedure alone may give patients approximately a 50 percent or higher chance of relief from atrial fibrillation. When the procedures are done together the effectiveness may increase significantly to 70 percent or higher, including less pain, smaller incisions, and a shorter hospital stay.

Combining the two approaches will mean better outcomes for patients, decrease or end the need for future surgeries and procedures, and eliminate some long term medication use which can lead to more medical complications.Atrial fibrillation affects millions of people in the United States. For patients with atrial fibrillation the heart’s electrical signals are out of sync and the muscles quiver instead of beating regularly and effectively. For some the condition may come and go, or in other cases it is chronic and persistent. In some patients who suffer from atrial fibrillation, the upper chambers can start and stop on their own, for minutes or days at a time. Atrial fibrillation is also a condition that can lead to other serious health risks including stroke and congestive heart failure.

About Orlando Health

Dr. P. Phillips Hospital “Go Green” Earth Day celebration launches campaign to reduce energy consumption

4/25/2011 12:00:00 AM

Orlando, FL – April 22, 2011 – Dr. P. Phillips Hospital celebrated Earth Day by making a commitment to go green. The hospital, an ENERGY STAR™ partner launched its campaign “Be an Energy Star at Dr. P. Phillips Hospital”, which includes committing to a 10% overall reduction in energy consumption. The Earth Day celebration helped Dr. P. Phillips Hospital employees get an inside look into conservation steps underway at the facility and learn new ways to reduce energy use at work and at home.

The hospital has already made many changes to conserve energy including replacing regular bulbs in the hospital and parking garage with compact fluorescent light bulbs. The hospital is also installing smart fixtures, such as motion sensors, throughout the 550,000 square foot building to conserve energy.

The Green Team at Dr. P. Phillips Hospital poses with compact fluorescent lightbulbs which are being used to retrofit the lighting in the facility. From left Pattie Green, Holly Charles, Kristin Yager, Sandra Frank, Daryl Benfant and Denise Anderson.

See our photo album on Facebook.

Orlando Health Teams Up With Orlando City Soccer

4/7/2011 12:00:00 AM

Orlando, FL (March 3, 2010) - Orlando Health is teaming with Orlando's newest sports franchise, the Orlando City Soccer. Orlando Health will be the presenting sponsor and exclusive medical provider for the team and organization. Orlando Health executives are excited to join with Orlando City Soccer in bringing this game of soccer to the Central Florida community. John Marzano, Vice President of Orlando Health stated that the organization "is proud to join with Orlando City Soccer in helping to bring a hugely popular spectator and participation sport to Central Florida. It starts with kids and families, and when you throw soccer into the mix, well it just might be a perfect storm of success in this region." The sponsorship also extends to Orlando City Soccer's youth camps and clinics for young soccer players.

About Orlando Health
Orlando Health is a $1.7 billion not-for-profit health care organization and a community-based network of nine hospitals and care centers in the Orlando region. The organization, which includes the area's only Level One Trauma Centers for adults and pediatrics, is a statutory teaching hospital system that offers both specialty and community hospitals.

About Orlando City Soccer
Orlando City is a professional soccer team playing in the USL PRO league. The season kicks off April 2nd. The first regular season home game is April 9th. For more information, visit www.orlandocitysoccer.com today.

Online Voting Campaign brings Unique Art and Mental Health Programs to Patients at MD Anderson – Orlando

3/22/2011 12:00:00 AM

United Arts of Central Florida
Emma Kruch
407.628.0333 x34
Emma@UnitedArts.cc

ORLANDO, FL. (March 22, 2011) – MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando is launching two unique programs for patients thanks to grants from the LIVESTRONG® Community Impact Project. MD Anderson – Orlando was named the recipient of the two LIVESTRONG awards last fall after a nationwide online voting campaign. The grants will bring valuable cancer support programs to patients in Central Florida. The projects are created by LIVESTRONG, the organization founded by cancer survivor and champion cyclist Lance Armstrong, which serves people affected by cancer and empowers them to take action.

From left to right, MD Anderson – Orlando team members Jeanne Miller-Clark, Marie Mackey and Lori McCormick join Margot Knight, President and CEO, United Arts of Central Florida, Dana Nolan, MD Anderson - Orlando and Clarence Brown, III, MD, President and CEO, MD Anderson - Orlando for the kick off of the new programs for cancer patients at MD Anderson – Orlando.

Working in partnership with United Arts of Central Florida, The Creative Center’s Artists-in-Residence program will offer patients the opportunity to learn about and become absorbed in their own creative resources as they meet the challenges of diagnosis, treatment and survivorship. The program will work bedside and in small group settings with men, women and children – in oncology units, bone marrow transplant units, intensive care/respiratory units, hospice and palliative care programs.

The Cancer Transitions™ program is designed to support, educate and empower people with cancer in the transitional period after treatment is over. The program incorporates support groups, education, nutrition and physical exercise, as well as addressing other medical management, psychosocial and quality of life issues. The program also provides survivors with practical tools and resources to formulate a personal action plan for survivorship beyond their participation in Cancer Transitions.

MD Anderson – Orlando was selected as a recipient for the $20,000 in LIVESTRONG grants following a national online voting campaign involving more than 170 hospitals and cancer centers. Over a two-week period, more than 260,000 votes were cast and MD Anderson - Orlando was among the finalists.

LIVESTRONG is committed to supporting community organizations in their efforts to help cancer survivors face the challenges and changes that come with cancer. Since its inception in 1997, the organization has invested more than $68 million in community-centered organizations.

MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando
MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando, part of Orlando Health, is affiliated with The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando in Houston. U.S. News & World Report recently ranked MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando as the top cancer treatment center in the U.S. and has ranked it as one of the top two cancer centers for the past 13 years. Orlando Health, a 1,882-bed community-owned, Florida not-for-profit organization established in 1918, annually serves nearly 2 million Central Florida residents and more than 4,500 international patients. More information is available at www.mdacco.com.

United Arts of Central Florida
United Arts of Central Florida is a dynamic collaboration of 135 businesses, 8 governments and school districts, 33 foundations, more than 50 arts and cultural organizations, and 2,873 artists and individuals. This partnership works to enhance the quality and variety of cultural experiences available throughout Lake, Orange, Osceola and Seminole counties. Since its inception in 1989, United Arts has invested more than $112 million in local cultural organizations and cultural education. For more information please visit www.UnitedArts.cc.

About LIVESTRONG
Founded in 1997 by cancer survivor and champion cyclist Lance Armstrong and based in Austin, Texas, LIVESTRONG fights for the 28 million people around the world living with cancer today. LIVESTRONG connects individuals to the support they need, leverages funding and resources to spur innovation and engages communities and leaders to drive social change. Known for the iconic yellow wristband, LIVESTRONG's mission is to inspire and empower anyone affected by cancer. For more information, visit www.LIVESTRONG.org.

Central Florida Kids Now Have A Place of Their Own for Dialysis

2/25/2011 12:00:00 AM

Orlando, FL (February 25, 2011) – Until now, Central Florida lacked a dialysis center exclusively for kids. Children who needed dialysis were treated at adult centers in the area.

The Hewell Kids’ Kidney Center at Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children is changing that. The new space is strictly designed with children in mind to offer comprehensive care for young patients in need of dialysis and other kidney disease treatments.

“The Hewell Kids’ Kidney Center brings together all of the resources at Arnold Palmer Hospital in a child-friendly, family-centered environment,” states Jorge Ramirez, MD, Director of Pediatric Nephrology at Arnold Palmer Hospital. “Children will receive care more quickly, feel a greater sense of control, and benefit from the comfort and strength of being with other children and families with similar experiences.”

The Kids’ Kidney Center, which cost approximately $3 million to build, was completely funded through philanthropy. A large portion of that philanthropy came from the Hewell family of Longwood, Florida, who donated $1.5 million to make the center a possibility. The center contains three exam rooms, one consultation room, four dialysis bays, and family and play areas.

In 2010, Arnold Palmer Hospital saw more than 7,000 inpatient and outpatient visits from children seeking treatment for some form of kidney disease. Additionally, eight percent of the babies admitted to the neonatal intensive care unit at Winnie Palmer Hospital for Women & Babies will develop some form of kidney dysfunction. If left undiagnosed and untreated, kidney disease can result in ongoing dialysis or transplantation, and in some cases, death.

Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children

ORMC uses first and only pacemaker system for use during MRI

2/21/2011 12:00:00 AM

Editor’s Note: Please see attached photos.

ORLANDO, Fla. (February 18, 2011) --- Orlando Regional Medical Center is the first hospital in Florida to implant a new pacemaker designed for safe use during magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans often used to diagnose and treat conditions. Recently approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, the Revo MRI™ SureScan® pacing system by Medtronic, is the first and only pacemaker in the U.S. specifically designed for use in an MRI environment and approved as MR-Conditional.

“The approval of this device is a major milestone in caring for patients’ heart conditions and other problems as well,” said David Bello, MD, an interventional electrophysiologist and ORMC’s medical director of diagnostic cardiology. “Previously, an entire segment of the population with pacemakers was unable to receive the medical imaging used to uncover and treat conditions outside of their heart problems.”

An estimated 5 million patients worldwide have a pacemaker or implantable cardioverter-defibrillator. Up to 75 percent of pacemaker patients will need an MRI at some point in their lifetime to diagnose another health condition. Medical imaging provided by MRIs can be used to diagnose cancer, aneurysms, liver abnormalities, arthritis, and many other conditions. MRI technology uses magnetic fields and radio frequencies to take pictures of organs, soft tissues and bone to help doctors diagnose medical conditions.

The Revo, like traditional pacemakers, uses electrical pulses to correct slow heart rhythms, but with a twist — it has an optional "SureScan" mode that can be switched “on” for use during MRI to eliminate interference.Before now, patients with pacemakers were not allowed to have MRIs because of potential serious side effects. For example, the magnet can interrupt the pacing and prevent the output of pacemakers, causing improper heart rhythm. Also, tips of the wires used to connect the pacemaker to the heart could heat up during the scan and burn heart tissue.

The new MRI compatible pacemaker also holds far-reaching future implications.

“The new device is significant to patients who may one day need a pacemaker and later an MRI to diagnose and treat another condition,” said Dr. Bello. “As the population ages, the need for pacemakers increases. The use of MRIs as a diagnostic tool also continues to grow.”

ORMC was also a site in the international multicenter study that contributed to the evaluation of patients leading to FDA approval of the new MRI compatible pacemaker.

“Being a part of the trial was important in helping determine if patients with permanent pacemakers would be able to undergo routine MRI testing,” said Dr. Bello who was principal investigator for the study. “MRI scans are an important tool in helping doctors diagnose problems and develop treatment plans. We are honored to have been a part of helping widen the spectrum of diagnostic opportunities for patients today and in the future.”

About Orlando Health

Orlando Health is a $1.7 billion not-for-profit health care organization and a community-based network of hospitals and care centers in the Orlando region. The organization, which includes the area’s only Level One Trauma Centers for adults and pediatrics, is a statutory teaching hospital system that offers both specialty and community hospitals. They are: Orlando Regional Medical Center; Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children; Winnie Palmer Hospital for Women & Babies; Dr. P. Phillips Hospital; South Seminole Hospital; South Lake Hospital (50 percent partnership); St. Cloud Regional Medical Center (20 percent partnership) and MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando – the first affiliate of one of the nation’s premier cancer centers The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando in Houston. Orlando Health’s areas of clinical excellence are heart and vascular, cancer care, neurosciences, surgery, pediatric orthopedics and sports medicine, neonatology, and obstetrics and gynecology.

Photos
Click to enlarge.

New technology puts the freeze on abnormal heart rhythms

1/25/2011 12:00:00 AM

Editor’s Note: Please see below photos. Contact Media Relations for doctor and patient interview opportunities.

ORLANDO, Fla. (January 25, 2011) --- Heart chilling technology is restoring normal heartbeats for patients with atrial fibrillation. Electrophysiologists at Orlando Regional Medical Center (ORMC) are the first in Central Florida to use the Arctic Front(R) Cardiac CryoAblation Catheter system which uses a coolant to correct the irregular heart beat. The coolant targets the pulmonary veins — the source of the erratic electrical signals. The device, by Medtronic, was recently approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.

“With the Arctic Front, we are able to use a special catheter with a balloon at the end that inflates inside the upper chambers of the heart,” said Aurelio Duran, MD, cardiology chair at ORMC. “Once inside the chambers, a solution is injected and is used to isolate and ablate or destroy the tissue of the veins where the bad rhythms occur. We believe the new method will improve outcomes and be a safer, more effective option for patients.”

For patients with atrial fibrillation the heart’s electrical signals are out of sync and the muscles quiver instead of beating regularly and effectively. In some patients who suffer from atrial fibrillation, the upper chambers can start and stop on their own, for minutes or days at a time.

“Atrial fibrillation is a condition that can lead to other serious health risks,” said Dr. Duran. “Because the heart muscle does not properly contract, a clot can develop and pass through the heart into the brain causing a stroke. It is important to manage the risk for stroke in patients with atrial fibrillation.”

An estimated 2.2 million Americans have atrial fibrillation, the most common and one of the most undertreated heart rhythm disorders in America. Symptoms of atrial fibrillation include a racing, irregular heartbeat, palpitations, fatigue and overall weakness.

“The likelihood of atrial fibrillation increases with age and 25 percent of adults will develop it at some point in their lives, increasing the need for more effective treatment options.” said Dr. Duran.

Other procedures to treat atrial fibrillation include medicines, and radiofrequency ablation which sends radiofrequency energy to destroy tissue involved in the abnormal heart rhythm.

About Orlando Health

Orlando Health is a $1.7 billion not-for-profit health care organization and a community-based network of hospitals and care centers in the Orlando region. The organization, which includes the area’s only Level One Trauma Centers for adults and pediatrics, is a statutory teaching hospital system that offers both specialty and community hospitals. They are: Orlando Regional Medical Center; Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children; Winnie Palmer Hospital for Women & Babies; Dr. P. Phillips Hospital; South Seminole Hospital; South Lake Hospital (50 percent partnership); St. Cloud Regional Medical Center (20 percent partnership) and MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando – the first affiliate of one of the nation’s premier cancer centers The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando in Houston. Orlando Health’s areas of clinical excellence are heart and vascular, cancer care, neurosciences, surgery, pediatric orthopedics and sports medicine, neonatology, and obstetrics and gynecology.

Click photo for high-res.

ORMC plays critical role in studies to improve treatment for wounded service members and civilians

1/21/2011 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, Fla. (January 21, 2011) — Orlando Regional Medical Center (ORMC) is one of two dozen major trauma centers recruited to participate in a series of national studies focused on the treatment and outcomes of major orthopedic injuries to military service members. The hospitals are part of the Major Extremity Trauma Research Consortium (METRC) formed in response to high number of service members who are injured. The Consortium was recently awarded $38.6 million by the U.S. Department of Defense (DOD) to address the 82 percent of all service members in Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom who sustain significant extremity trauma – many with injuries to multiple limbs.

The network of core civilian trauma centers will work together with the major military medical centers that provide definitive treatment to the service members who sustain major trauma while on active duty. The overall goal of the Consortium is to produce the evidence needed to establish treatment guidelines for the optimal care of the wounded warrior and ultimately improve the clinical, functional and quality of life outcomes of both service members and civilians who sustain high energy trauma to the extremities.

“One of only a few centers, Orlando Regional Medical Center has a unique opportunity to share expertise with an elite group of trauma centers across the country through multiple studies, helping improve patient care,” said George J. Haidukewych, MD, chief of orthopedic trauma and academic chairman and program director, Orthopedic Surgery at Orlando Health.

As Greater Orlando’s only Level One Trauma Center, ORMC treated more than 4,100 patients last year with complex injuries from high energy events including ejection from vehicles, significant falls, vehicle-pedestrian impact, firearm wounds and other traumatic injuries – making the hospital an important contributor to the consortium.

One of the studies ORMC will participate in evaluates the effectiveness of internal and external fixation for severe lower leg extremities. Comparing treatments – internal or external fixation – will lead to better patient outcomes for military members and civilians. The most common types of internal fixation include pins, rods, screws and plates used inside the body to support the bone directly. Pins, rods and screws are also used to make external fixators, like frames and rings, but outside the body, going through the skin and muscle to connect to the bone.

“A study of this magnitude requires multiple centers to answer the difficult question of whether or not internal or external fixation is a better treatment option for patients,” said Joshua R. Langford, MD, principal investigator and orthopedic traumatologist, Orlando Health Orthopedic Faculty Practice. “Together we will address the most pressing issues in orthopedic trauma care. The results of our studies will change practices, resulting in better care for all who are injured.”

While types of injuries and the environment for civilians may differ for soldiers, the principals for treatment are similar.

The recent award is in addition to the $18 million award by the DOD to establish the Consortium in September 2009 to address some of the immediate research needs of the military in the acute management of severe limb injuries.

Dr. Langford explains, when a soldier has a severe lower leg injury from an explosive device and a civilian has a severe lower injury from a motor vehicle crash, both are high energy events impacting the bone.

The Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health serves as the coordinating center for the Consortium.

“We are thrilled to have ORMC as our partner in this effort to improve the standard of care for the wounded warrior and civilian trauma patient,” said Ellen MacKenzie PhD, Director of the Consortium’s Coordinating Center and the Fred and Julie Soper Professor and Chair of the Bloomberg School’s Department of Health Policy and Management. “Without a large multi-center effort such as this, we would be unable to effectively study many of the issues that are critical to ensuring the best outcomes following a severe injury.”

About Orlando Health

Orlando Health is a $1.7 billion not-for-profit health care organization and a community-based network of hospitals and care centers in the Orlando region. The organization, which includes the area’s only Level One Trauma Centers for adults and pediatrics, is a statutory teaching hospital system that offers both specialty and community hospitals. They are: Orlando Regional Medical Center; Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children; Winnie Palmer Hospital for Women & Babies; Dr. P. Phillips Hospital; South Seminole Hospital; South Lake Hospital (50 percent partnership); St. Cloud Regional Medical Center (20 percent partnership) and MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando – the first affiliate of one of the nation’s premier cancer centers The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando in Houston. Orlando Health’s areas of clinical excellence are heart and vascular, cancer care, neurosciences, surgery, pediatric orthopedics and sports medicine, neonatology, and obstetrics and gynecology.

MD Anderson – Orlando Celebrates 20 Years in Central Florida

1/19/2011 12:00:00 AM

Twenty years ago MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando opened its doors to the public becoming the first outreach program of the world famous MD Anderson in Houston and bringing internationally renowned cancer care to Central Floridians. Now, as one of the most recognized cancer centers in the state of Florida, MD Anderson – Orlando’s world class medical staff use the most advanced cancer fighting technology and treatments to fight cancer and provide hope to the 5,000 new patients who visit the cancer center each year.

The creation of the cancer center twenty years ago forged a historic partnership between Orlando Health and the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center. As it marks this anniversary, MD Anderson – Orlando celebrates with another historic milestone -- the unveiling of a new logo depicting the cancer center’s continued commitment to find a cure for cancer.

“We have certainly grown in size and scope since we opened our doors as Orlando Cancer Center twenty years ago and our growing team works everyday to find a cure for cancer,” said Clarence Brown, MD, President and CEO of MD Anderson – Orlando. “By using a team approach to fighting cancer, we are providing our patients with the best cancer care available. Using the latest in technology and treatment options as well as research program currently underway at our Cancer Research Institute we are continuing to forge new pathways to winning the fight against cancer, one of humanity’s greatest challenges.”

Since it opened in 1991, MD Anderson – Orlando has provided cancer care and hope to more than 75,000 patients. The cancer center began twenty years ago as Orlando Cancer Center with a staff of eight physicians and 75 employees. It has grown to 45 full-time employed and 14 contracted physicians on staff and more than 420 employees. In 1991, the cancer center saw 2,500 new patients. Now, twenty years later, the number of new patients each year has doubled and the center registers 120,000 patient visits annually.

Other notable dates:

1989 – Representatives from MD Anderson in Houston visit Orlando hospitals to discuss opening an outreach program
1993 – Women Playing For T.I.M.E. holds its first golf tournament to benefit breast cancer patients. To date Women Playing For T.I.M.E. has raised eight million dollars for MD Anderson – Orlando and the fight against cancer.
1994 – Orlando Cancer Center officially changes its name to MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando
1997 – Former President George Bush travels to Orlando for the official groundbreaking of the new MD Anderson – Orlando facility, the Charles Lewis Pavilion, located along Orange Avenue
2003 – MD Anderson - Orlando moves into the 10-story, 220,000 square foot Charles Lewis Pavilion
2008 – Opens Central Florida’s first Breast Cancer Survivorship Clinic
2009 – Cancer Research Institute triples in size, expanding into 30,000 square feet of space in the UCF College of Medicine’s Burnett School of Biomedical Sciences building at Lake Nona Medical City
2010 – MD Anderson – Orlando places 328 patients into 239 clinical trials.
2010 – Physicians, physicists and scientists at MD Anderson – Orlando and the Cancer Research Institute publish 77 peer reviewed manuscripts in medical journals.

MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando
MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando, part of Orlando Health, is affiliated with The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center in Houston. U.S. News & World Report recently ranked MD Anderson Cancer Center as the top cancer treatment center in the U.S. and has ranked it as one of the top two cancer centers for the past 13 years. Orlando Health, a 1,882-bed community-owned, Florida not-for-profit organization established in 1918, annually serves nearly 2 million Central Florida residents and more than 4,500 international patients. More information is available at www.mdacco.com.

Arnold Palmer Hospital Rolls Out Interactive Campaign Introducing Young Patients to the Community

1/10/2011 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, Fla. (January 6, 2011) - Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children is launching a new interactive marketing campaign designed to engage consumers and introduce the community to some of its young patients.

Named "Meet Our Kids," the campaign will feature a strong web component with a microsite encouraging consumers to upload photos and videos of patients who have been treated at Arnold Palmer Hospital, Winnie Palmer Hospital for Women & Babies, or the Howard Phillips Center for Children & Families. Photos and video will be showcased on the microsite and users will be encouraged to share links with friends and family. The campaign, which will run throughout 2011, will feature uploaded photos and video of patients in television, print, outdoor, and digital outdoor advertising across the region.

"For more than 20 years, our top priority has been delivering the highest-quality comprehensive healthcare for children in our community," stated Betsy Culpepper, Director of Marketing and Public Relations at Arnold Palmer Medical Center. "Many patients and families have experienced that heartfelt care at Arnold Palmer Hospital and have become our best advocates. This campaign recognizes them for their strength and shares their stories with the community. "

To upload photos and video, families should visit www.meetourkids.org.

Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children

Arnold Palmer Hospital Receives Accreditation in Diabetes Education

12/17/2010 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, Fla. (December 17, 2010) - The Pediatric Endocrinology Practice at Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children has been named an accredited diabetes education program by the American Association of Diabetes Educators (AADE).

Accreditation ensures that patients at Arnold Palmer Hospital and Central Florida residents have access to the right tools and support to make diabetes self-care very manageable in everyday life. Diabetes education is a collaborative process through which people with or at risk for diabetes gain the knowledge and skills needed to modify behavior and successfully self-manage the disease and its related conditions.

"We are thrilled to receive accreditation from AADE," stated Paul Desrosiers, M.D., Division Chief of the Pediatric Endocrinology Practice. "This achievement will help us in our continuing expansion and the improvement of an already professionally-staffed and well-developed pediatric diabetes program and support group."

"Trends show that diabetes education is moving out of the hospital and into the community, so AADE's accreditation program was created, in part, to encourage diabetes education where the patient is seeking care," said Leslie E. Kolb, RN, BSN, MBA, Program Director, AADE Diabetes Education Accreditation Program. "Arnold Palmer Hospital's Endocrinology Program is exactly the type of program we envisioned when we set up our accreditation program in 2009."

The Arnold Palmer Hospital Pediatric Endocrinology Practice, located at 32 W. Gore Street, Orlando, FL 32806, will now be able to offer a variety of diabetes education classes, including advanced knowledge. For more information on diabetes education at Arnold Palmer Hospital, please call 321-841-3303.

Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children

Orlando Health, GE Healthcare and Virtual OfficeWare align to offer Electronic Medical Record technology to community physicians Collaboration Delivers Solution Certified to Meet Federal Mandate

12/10/2010 12:00:00 AM

Orlando, FL (November 19, 2010) - Orlando Health, in conjunction with GE Healthcare and Virtual OfficeWare, has launched an Electronic Medical Records (EMR) initiative available to community physicians. Under the program, area physicians may obtain GE Healthcare's Centricity Practice Solution version 9.5, which has been certified for 2011/2012 as a Complete EHR by the Certification Commission for Health Information Technology (CCHIT®). The 2011/2012 criteria support the Stage 1 Meaningful Use measures required to qualify eligible providers for funding under the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA) of 2009. The ARRA legislation offers physicians incentive payments for Medicare and Medicaid patients if they are deemed meaningful users of a certified EMR. Failure to comply with the new requirements will result in reimbursement penalties after 2015.

"We recognized that one of the biggest challenges faced by our community physicians was the ability to obtain, implement and maintain an effective EMR system," said Rick Schooler, Vice President/Chief Information Officer, Orlando Health. "By leveraging our relationships with respected healthcare technology providers, we are able to offer an attractive solution to area physicians."

The Centricity Practice Solution is being offered to community physicians by reseller Virtual OfficeWare with minimal up-front costs and monthly subscription fees based on a discounted per physician rate.

"At GE, we're celebrating more than forty years of customer commitment," said Jim Corrigan, Vice President and General Manager of GE Healthcare IT. "This type of project gives us the chance to further that commitment by making a frontline, low-cost EMR product available to one of the many communities we serve. We look forward to continued collaboration with Orlando Health and its physicians, going forward, and developing new ways to enhance the patient care they offer."

Effective EMR systems such as Centricity Practice Solution can assist physician offices in whole-patient care by further improving clinical workflow. Yet only 15 percent of the nation's physicians use EMRs in their office due to system costs and workflow changes. This new initiative addresses those challenges by assisting practices with system implementation and effective utilization of the application's single database, thereby relieving practices from some of the demands of running their own IT network. In addition to training and technical support being provided through the Orlando Health alliance, physicians may also work with the University of Central Florida College of Medicine's Regional Extension Center (REC) for additional EMR training and support.

The Center is one of approximately 70 offices established around the country to assist providers with achieving and documenting "meaningful use" requirements. Additional information can be found on the REC website, www.ucf-rec.org.

About Orlando Health

Orlando Health is a $1.7 billion not-for-profit health care organization and a community-based network of hospitals and care centers in the Orlando region. The organization, which includes the area's only Level One Trauma Centers for adults and pediatrics, is a statutory teaching hospital system that offers both specialty and community hospitals. They are: Orlando Regional Medical Center; Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children; Winnie Palmer Hospital for Women & Babies; Dr. P. Phillips Hospital; South Seminole Hospital; South Lake Hospital (50 percent partnership); St. Cloud Regional Medical Center (20 percent partnership) and MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando - the first affiliate of one of the nation's premier cancer centers The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando in Houston. Orlando Health's areas of clinical excellence are heart and vascular, cancer care, neurosciences, surgery, pediatric orthopedics and sports medicine, neonatology, and obstetrics and gynecology.

About Virtual OfficeWare, Inc

Virtual OfficeWare, Inc. is an exclusive partner of GE Healthcare IT and is dedicated to serving medical professionals with innovative technological solutions to better improve the quality of care given to patients. Virtual OfficeWare specializes in healthcare technology and is a one source vendor for physicians of all specialties in 18 states along the mid-western and eastern regions of the U.S. They are headquartered in Pittsburgh, PA and have another office location in Massapequa, NY.

In conjunction to offering GE's Centricity Practice Solution, Virtual OfficeWare provides software development, on-site or Web training, customer support, and hardware technologies. Their extensive knowledge in software engineering has enabled them to develop a suite of value-added software solutions that are a customized fit to many practices' workflows and needs.

Their solutions are designed to integrate seamlessly with the Centricity system for those medical offices requiring that extra edge and/or to further automate their daily tasks. Virtual OfficeWare continues to provide healthcare professionals with modern technologies to help them face heavy demands and challenges that are often encountered by practices today as well as into tomorrow. For more information about Virtual OfficeWare, visit www.virtualofficeware.net or call 1-888-950-0688.

About GE Healthcare

GE Healthcare provides transformational medical technologies and services that are shaping a new age of patient care. Our broad expertise in medical imaging and information technologies, medical diagnostics, patient monitoring systems, drug discovery, biopharmaceutical manufacturing technologies, performance improvement and performance solutions services help our customers to deliver better care to more people around the world at a lower cost. In addition, we partner with healthcare leaders, striving to leverage the global policy change necessary to implement a successful shift to sustainable healthcare systems.

Our "healthymagination" vision for the future invites the world to join us on our journey as we continuously develop innovations focused on reducing costs, increasing access and improving quality around the world. Headquartered in the United Kingdom, GE Healthcare is a unit of General Electric Company (NYSE: GE). Worldwide, GE Healthcare employees are committed to serving healthcare professionals and their patients in more than 100 countries. For more information about GE Healthcare, visit our website at www.gehealthcare.com.

For our latest news, please visit http://newsroom.gehealthcare.com

Media Contacts

Orlando Health Kena Lewis, APR 321-841-8184 Kena.lewis@orlandohealth.com	Virtual OfficeWare, Inc. Erika Leroch 888-950-0688 info@virtualofficeware.net
GE Healthcare Corey Miller 414-469-5499 Corey.miller@ge.com	UCF College of Medicine REC Wendy Sarubbi 407-266-1418 wsarubbi@mail.ucf.edu

Orlando Health Receives "Employer of Choice®" Award

12/10/2010 12:00:00 AM

Orlando, FL (December 2, 2010) - Orlando Health has received the "Employer of Choice®" award from Employer of Choice International, Inc., a certifying body that recognizes employers for their extraordinary human resources practices. This year's recognition is valid for two years. It marks the third time the organization has received the prestigious award, which it first received in 2005 and again in 2008. The honor recognizes Orlando Health's dedication to a level of employee relationships that goes above and beyond industry human resources standards.

"We work continuously to foster an employee-centric culture," said Nancy Dinon, Vice President, Human Resources, Orlando Health. "We place a high importance on communication and dialogue at all levels of the organization. It is the only way to ensure that we serve our patients and each other with the highest quality."

Organizations earning the "Employer of Choice®" credential qualify by scoring among the top 10 percent of employers in eight areas including: enlightened leadership (vision and direction while being open and accessible); care of people (demonstrating concern of health and well-being of team members); growth and opportunities (education, mentoring, cross-training); employee loyalty (high retention); and making a difference (supporting local causes and reaching out to the community).

"The fact that Orlando Health continues to operate at a level worthy of a two-year award demonstrates an incomparable level of leadership and employee-centered practices that set it apart from most other hospitals in the country," said Joyce Gioia, President & CEO, Employer of Choice International, Inc.

Orlando Health is committed to attracting, growing and retaining professional, knowledgeable and caring team members and medical staff as part of its new strategic initiative to integrate a patient-first model of care throughout the organization. Under the patient-first model, all aspects of the organization - from policies and procedures to scheduling - are designed to ensure patients' needs take priority in each and every interaction.

Orlando Health has several practices in place to support team members' professional and personal development including continuing education programs; communication forums; mind, body and spirit wellness programs; community outreach opportunities and recognition programs.

About Orlando Health

Orlando Health is a $1.7 billion not-for-profit health care organization and a community-based network of hospitals and care centers in the Orlando region. The organization, which includes the area's only Level One Trauma Centers for adults and pediatrics, is a statutory teaching hospital system that offers both specialty and community hospitals. They are: Orlando Regional Medical Center; Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children; Winnie Palmer Hospital for Women & Babies; Dr. P. Phillips Hospital; South Seminole Hospital; South Lake Hospital (50 percent partnership); St. Cloud Regional Medical Center (20 percent partnership) and MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando - the first affiliate of one of the nation's premier cancer centers The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando in Houston. Orlando Health's areas of clinical excellence are heart and vascular, cancer care, neurosciences, surgery, pediatric orthopedics and sports medicine, neonatology, and obstetrics and gynecology.

Winnie Palmer Hospital Adds New Physician Specializing in Women’s Health

11/17/2010 12:00:00 AM

Orlando, Fla (November 17, 2010) – Winnie Palmer Hospital for Women & Babies has added to its roster of physicians. Bela Kudish, M.D., a urogynecologist, has joined the hospital’s Women’s Center Specialty Practice, which features a variety of gynecological services.

Kudish specializes in treating women with a wide range of pelvic floor disorders, including pelvic organ prolapse, urinary incontinence, anal incontinence and more. “This field offers exciting new ways to approach, treat, and research aspects of women’s health that women did not discuss for years.” states Kudish. “I’m very pleased to be able to help women throughout Central Florida improve their quality of life right here at Winnie Palmer Hospital.”

Kudish completed her medical degree at the University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry in New York. She also earned a master of science degree in clinical research design and statistical analysis at the University of Michigan, Ann Arbor. She completed a residency in obstetrics and gynecology at Wayne State University/Detroit Medical Center. She also completed an American Board of Obstetrics and Gynecology- and an American Board of Urology-approved fellowship in female pelvic medicine and reconstructive surgery at Washington Hospital Center/Georgetown University in Washington, D.C. She is board-certified in obstetrics and gynecology.

Winnie Palmer Hospital for Women & Babies
Winnie Palmer Hospital for Women & Babies, supported by the Arnold Palmer Medical Center Foundation, is a 285-bed facility dedicated exclusively to the needs of women and babies. The hospital includes comprehensive fetal diagnostics and labor and delivery services, a regional center for neonatal intensive care, maternal intensive care and women’s services. Annually, more than 14,000 babies are expected to be born at Winnie Palmer Hospital, making it the busiest labor and delivery unit in the state of Florida. To learn more, visit www.winniepalmerhospital.com.

MD Anderson – Orlando Named Recipient of LIVESTRONG® Awards to Benefit Cancer Patients

11/11/2010 12:00:00 AM

United Arts of Central Florida
Emma Kruch
407.628.0333 x34
Emma@UnitedArts.cc

ORLANDO, FL. (November 11, 2010) – MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando has been named the recipient of two LIVESTRONG® Community Impact Project awards bringing valuable cancer support programs to patients in Central Florida. The projects are created by LIVESTRONG, the organization founded by cancer survivor and champion cyclist Lance Armstrong, which serves people affected by cancer and empowers them to take action.

“This is a tremendous opportunity for MD Anderson – Orlando and we are thrilled to be named as a recipient of these awards,” said Clarence Brown, III, MD, president and CEO, MD Anderson - Orlando. “We want to give special thanks to LIVESTRONG and to everyone who voted in support of this program here in Central Florida. We are very excited to move forward and provide these programs to our patients.”

“Through the generosity of LIVESTRONG, United Arts is proud to facilitate in bringing local artists to MD Anderson – Orlando as the fight against cancer continues,” said Cory Warren, events manager, United Arts of Central Florida. “We are honored to continue the success of The Creative Center’s Artists-in-Residence program locally by coupling the arts and medicine in the full spectrum of the healing process.”

“LIVESTRONG is dedicated to providing the best direct services to people affected by cancer and encourages our supporters to be actively involved in leading the unified LIVESTRONG movement against cancer,” said Doug Ulman, president and CEO of LIVESTRONG. “The LIVESTRONG Community Impact Project is exercising an innovative approach that engages more people in our mission and allows them to play a critical role in the organization’s programming.”

MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando

MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando, part of Orlando Health, is affiliated with The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando in Houston. U.S. News & World Report recently ranked MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando as the top cancer treatment center in the U.S. and has ranked it as one of the top two cancer centers for the past 13 years. Orlando Health, a 1,882-bed community-owned, Florida not-for-profit organization established in 1918, annually serves nearly 2 million Central Florida residents and more than 4,500 international patients. More information is available at www.mdacco.com.

United Arts of Central Florida

United Arts of Central Florida is a dynamic collaboration of 135 businesses, 8 governments and school districts, 33 foundations, more than 50 arts and cultural organizations, and 2,873 artists and individuals. This partnership works to enhance the quality and variety of cultural experiences available throughout Lake, Orange, Osceola and Seminole counties. Since its inception in 1989, United Arts has invested more than $112 million in local cultural organizations and cultural education. For more information please visit www.UnitedArts.cc.

About LIVESTRONG

Founded in 1997 by cancer survivor and champion cyclist Lance Armstrong and based in Austin, Texas, LIVESTRONG fights for the 28 million people around the world living with cancer today. LIVESTRONG connects individuals to the support they need, leverages funding and resources to spur innovation and engages communities and leaders to drive social change. Known for the iconic yellow wristband, LIVESTRONG's mission is to inspire and empower anyone affected by cancer. For more information, visit www.LIVESTRONG.org.

Orlando Health, the University of Florida and Shands HealthCare Partner to Confront Health-Care Challenges, Embrace Opportunities

10/14/2010 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, Fla. — (October 14, 2010) Orlando Health, the University of Florida and Shands HealthCare announced today their intent to collaborate on new health initiatives that will make care more accessible to millions of patients over a 20-county region and expand training opportunities for physicians.

Officials signed a memorandum of understanding that provides a foundation for these and other related efforts, a natural result of years of close working relationships.

Under the agreement, the organizations will negotiate to form joint clinical programs in the areas of pediatrics, neuroscience, oncology, women’s health, transplantation and cardiovascular medicine, including a plan to develop a regional comprehensive cardiac care program. They also will look to increase undergraduate and graduate medical residency and fellowship training opportunities at Orlando Health, and open opportunities for conducting clinical trials through UF’s robust clinical research program, while also launching common approaches to quality care and safety initiatives.

“The formal affiliation of Orlando Health with the University of Florida and Shands will build on our longstanding and valuable relationship and enhance our collective energies as regional and statewide clinical leaders,” said David S. Guzick, M.D., Ph.D., senior vice president for health affairs at UF and president of the UF&Shands Health System. “As the health-care needs of patients throughout Central and North Central Florida continue to grow, we will seek out ways to collaborate on comprehensive clinical programs for adults and children and fortify our role as educational leaders in delivering the highest-quality education for future physicians and other health providers.”

This agreement will pave the way for the organizations to meet new mandates under health-care reform, particularly those addressing quality of care.

“Our focus at Orlando Health has always been to provide patients with the highest quality of health care. New health-care reform initiatives add even greater emphasis to improving the quality and efficiency of health-care services,” said John Hillenmeyer, president and CEO of Orlando Health. “This alliance will open additional opportunities for us to work together to implement programs and modify models and structures that will positively impact the quality of healthcare for patients across multiple Florida counties.”

Physicians with these organizations will play an integral role in these efforts. Through this collaboration, Orlando Health physicians could receive faculty appointments, teach UF medical students or graduate medical trainees, or participate in UF-sponsored clinical trials. The agreement also could result in increased use of Orlando Health as a training site for UF medical residents and fellows. It is also envisioned that clinical faculty from UF’s College of Medicine could participate with Orlando Health medical staff on future clinical services.

The alliance also opens up additional opportunities for the physician groups to work together to develop joint clinical protocols that will enhance quality and safety for patients.

More than 2.5 million Floridians across nearly 20 counties are served by the three health-care organizations.

In a proactive response to pending health-care reform mandates, the organizations will develop similar or compatible electronic medical records capabilities and quality information systems to ensure easy access to relevant patient health information. They also are seeking to develop a comprehensive system of care that provides a spectrum of health-care services — from primary care to the most complex, such as transplantation.

In addition, the organizations, which share a common set of values in education, research and charitable missions, will pursue joint safety net ventures to better provide care to the traditional “safety net” patient population. Safety net patients are patients with limited or no access to health care due to their financial circumstances, insurance status or health condition.

“This collaboration lays the groundwork for advancing discussions to enhance patient care, medical education and research advances and will look to build upon affiliations each of the organizations already has in place with other health-care entities,” Hillenmeyer said.

Surgeons Develop A New Approach to Alter The Way They Implant a Cardiac Support Device And Prevent Strokes

10/5/2010 12:00:00 AM

Orlando, FL (October 5, 2010) -A surgical team from the University of Central Florida College of Medicine and Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children has presented findings from the first study to demonstrate that the way a ventricular assist device (VAD) is implanted can have an impact on whether or not a patient may have a stroke while the device is in use.

Specifically, the surgeons reported that they can adjust the way they implant a VAD to align with a patient's thoracic anatomy and as a result, modify blood flow patterns so that blood clots don't travel to the brain and possibly cause a stroke while the VAD is in use. This landmark study on stroke prevention in heart failure patients was reported at the 2010 Annual Clinical Congress of the American College of Surgeons.

The surgeons reconfigured the angles along which they would sew a VAD into the heart based on a magnetic resonance imaging scan of a patient's heart, aorta, and aortic arch (the main blood vessels that come out of the heart). Using computerized simulations of blood flow, the surgeons determined, for each surgical configuration, the size and percentage of blood clots that entered the two carotid arteries (arteries that carry blood to the brain). At one extreme, one of the configurations had an 18 percent average rate of embolization (blood clots travelling to the brain). At the other extreme, a configuration had an 8 percent rate of embolization.

The computerized technique, which is known as computational fluid dynamics, produces numerical simulations, not tests on actual patients. However, the surgeons applied the simulations to a real patient's aortic anatomy. "We took a patient's MRI scan and recreated the flow through it down to a fraction of a millimeter precision through computational fluid dynamic modeling. So a very real patient's anatomy went into very precise simulations as a starting point. Then, we calculated the pathway of blood clots forming within the VAD and travelling along the aorta," said William M. DeCampli, MD, PhD, FACS, a professor of surgery at the University of Central Florida and chair of surgery at the Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children in Orlando.

The surgeons are theorizing that "we could conceivably lower the stroke rate following the implantation of a VAD from 20 percent to 7 percent by making a surgical maneuver which is not that difficult to make," he explained.

At the ACS Clinical Congress, the surgeons showed videos of blood flowing through a VAD and the path taken by blood clots formed on the interior of the device. "We will demonstrate that as you change the angle of implantation of the VAD, the blood clots will tend to bypass the carotids and travel down the descending aorta. So instead of embolizing to the brain, the clots embolize more peripherally where one would hope potential damage would not be so severe," Dr. DeCampli said. Furthermore, by using patient specific MRI data, each patient could potentially be prescribed a unique configuration in which to implant the VAD.

Findings from this study, in fact, suggest other surgical procedures during VAD place-ment that could further reduce stroke risk. "While we found that clots could be directed away from one carotid artery, they tended to go up the other carotid artery," Dr. DeCampli said.

The solution to this problem would simply be to use a graft to bypass the other carotid artery. "With the simulations, we're finding that without a whole lot of extra surgical work, surgeons could place such a graft in a suitable location to ensure blood flow to both carotids and prevent embolization of blood clots," he said.

VADs are implantable mechanical pumps that direct blood from a small conduit connected to the left side (ventricle) of a heart that is failing to the aorta. VADs take over the work of the ventricle and pump blood to the body.

VADs are used to manage patients with end stage congestive heart failure by providing a "bridge" to receiving a cardiac transplant. The devices also are being applied as destination therapy or continuous, long-term support of failing hearts. "We now have evidence that patients can live with an acceptable quality of life with an implanted mechanical VAD in lieu of a transplanted heart," Dr. DeCampli reported.

Stroke is the most frequent serious complication following VAD implantation. The annual risk of stroke varies between 10 percent and 47 percent. Efforts to reduce the incidence of stroke have focused on altering the surfaces of the devices so the mechanical elements are not considered to be foreign bodies by the immune system and do not cause blood to clot. Alternatively, stroke prevention has focused on the use of blood thinners, or anticoagulants, that prevent clot from forming. Neither approach has been very successful.

The surgical team from the University of Central Florida is following a different avenue of research. Rather than try to prevent blood clots from forming, "we just assume the blood clots will form. We're trying to modify blood flow patterns so the clots will not go to the brain," Dr. DeCampli concluded.

Also participating in the study were Ivan Ricardo Argueta-Morales, MD; Reginald Tran, BS; William Clark, BS; Eduardo Divo, PhD; and Alain Kassab, PhD.

Larry the Cable Guy's Git-R-Done Foundation Donates $5 Million to Arnold Palmer Hospital

9/24/2010 12:00:00 AM

Orlando, FL (September 26, 2010) - Comedian Larry the Cable Guy announced today his charitable organization, The Git-R-Done Foundation, is donating $5 million to Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children for further development of the International Hip Dysplasia Institute (IHDI).

"My family's personal experience with hip dysplasia opened our eyes to how common this is but how little is known about it," stated Larry the Cable Guy. "Our hope is that this gift can be a springboard for more research, education, and better treatment for patients all over the world who suffer with hip dysplasia."

Hip dysplasia is the medical term for instability, or looseness, of the hip joint that affects thousands of children each year. This ranges from mild instability to complete dislocation.

Approximately one out of every 20 full-term babies has some hip instability and 2 to 3 per 1000 will require treatment. Persistent hip instability is a silent childhood condition that frequently causes disability and arthritis into adulthood.

IHDI is a not-for-profit collaborative effort between a number of medical centers around the world to promote the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of hip dysplasia. The organization is supported by the Arnold Palmer Medical Center Foundation.

"So much of what we are doing in the institute now is possible because of the vision and support of Larry the Cable Guy and his family," stated Charles T. Price, MD, Director of IHDI. "We hope to become the most comprehensive source of information for patients, parents and physicians around the world who share our commitment to improving knowledge and treatment of hip dysplasia."

In celebration of the donation, Larry the Cable Guy is hosting The First Annual Git-R-Done Golf Classic at Grand Cypress Golf Resort in Orlando on September 26th and 27th. Celebrity guests scheduled to attend include Jeff Foxworthy, Bill Engvall, Ron White, Sean Astin, PGA's Lee Janzen, and former Major League Baseball players Frank Viola Jr. and Davey Johnson.

The Git-R-Done Foundation

The Git-R-Done Foundation is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization created by Larry the Cable Guy and his wife, Cara, as a focal point for the family's philanthropy in 2009. The foundation's mission is to provide assistance to individuals, families and organizations that have experienced hardships beyond their control. The Git-R-Done Foundation has made numerous donations, including donations to the Arnold Palmer Medical Center Foundation for the treatment and cure of hip dysplasia and the Children's Advocacy Center. For information or to donate, visit www.gitrdonefoundation.org

Arnold Palmer Hospital For Children

New Program Brings Health and Nutrition Information to the Parramore Community

9/23/2010 12:00:00 AM

New Program Brings Health and Nutrition Information to the Parramore Community Obesity Program Focuses on Children and Families

Orlando, FL (September 23, 2010) – A new program in Orlando’s Parramore community is tackling childhood obesity and giving children and families access to vital weight management and nutrition information.

The Collaborative Obesity Prevention Program was started by doctors at Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children to address one of the most significant issues affecting childhood health, particularly in urban areas. The program is funded by a grant from the American Academy of Pediatrics.

COPP will provide education on obesity prevention to Parramore children ages eight to 12 and their families. The family-based program involves parents and guardians who make the majority of food choices for children while providing children with the information they need to make wise food choices on their own. In addition to encouraging regular exercise, COPP also provides education on techniques to overcome media influence on lifestyle choices.

There are more than 2,000 children living in the Parramore community. A recent survey showed 41 percent of these children have chronic health conditions that are not readily addressed given the existing barriers to care.

Since 2005, the Parramore Kidz Zone project, modeled after the well-known Harlem Children's Zone in New York City, has sought to change the distressed Orlando neighborhood into a healthy place for children by linking them to positive opportunities. While there are healthcare programs currently operating in the Parramore Kidz Zone, none of them focus solely on improved nutrition and weight management for children.

“Everyday in Parramore, children’s health and education are subordinated by more pressing needs, including food, clothing and shelter,” stated Lonna Gordon, M.D. “COPP will help meet the resource needs of children and families to deal with obesity, poor diet, and lack of physical activity.”

Children participating in COPP will be cared for by physicians completing their pediatric training at Arnold Palmer Hospital. The physicians are part of the In the Zone Community Pediatrics program that brings them out of the examining room and into communities where they can get to know children, youth, their families and their health concerns and resources better. Through In the Zone, pediatric trainees partner with agencies serving children, youth and families in the Parramore community and beyond to provide home visitations, health education, health navigation, mentorship and advocacy.

“Our pediatric trainees are very involved in bringing resources needed to promote health and prevent disease to the children and families in the community that need them most” stated Veenod Chulani, M.D., director of In the Zone. “By doing so, our residents gain valuable training while impacting some of today’s most pressing child health problems in family- and community-centered ways.”

A kick-off event for COPP will take place Tuesday, September 28 at 5:30pm at the Callahan Neighborhood Center, 101 North Parramore Avenue, Orlando, FL 32805. For more information, please email: COPP@orlandohealth.com.

Pink Fire Trucks Roll Into Town to Benefit MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando

9/22/2010 12:00:00 AM

Pink Fire Trucks Roll Into Town to Benefit MD Anderson Cancer Center OrlandoThe public may sign the trucks with messages of support in the fight against cancer

Orlando, FL Sept. 21, 2010 – A fleet of pink fire trucks rolled into Orlando area to draw attention to the fight against cancer and raise valuable dollars for life-saving care and research. The pink fire trucks were on display at MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando and Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children, providing the public the opportunity to sign the trucks with messages of support in the fight against cancer.

Lori McCormick, RN, BSN and Kristin Phillips, RN, BSN, OCN with MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando’s Breast Care Center pose in front of the pink fire truck on display.

The pink fire trucks are traveling the nation to spread cancer awareness as part of the “Pink Heals Tour.” The tour is manned by professional firefighters in full pink gear who call themselves the “Guardians of the Ribbon.” While on the Orlando Health campus, the pink crew visited with oncology patients at MD Anderson - Orlando and Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children.

"MD Anderson - Orlando was honored to be a stop on the Pink Heals National Tour," said Clarence Brown, MD, President and CEO of MD Anderson – Orlando. "Events like this not only help us move closer to finding a cure for cancer but also provide hope and support for Central Floridians battling this disease."

Pink Heals Tour 2010
The Pink Heals Tour is a national outreach initiative by Guardians of The Ribbon, a coalition of firefighters and police officers who partner with local fire departments and community leaders to raise awareness about cancer and support women battling the disease. For more information on the tour and the organization’s “Care Enough to Wear Pink” national campaign, go to www.pinkfiretrucks.org.

MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando
MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando, part of Orlando Health, is affiliated with The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando in Houston. U.S. News & World Report recently ranked MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando as the top cancer treatment center in the U.S. and has ranked it as one of the top two cancer centers for the past 13 years. Orlando Health, a 1,882-bed community-owned, Florida not-for-profit organization established in 1918, annually serves nearly 2 million Central Florida residents and more than 4,500 international patients. More information is available at www.mdacco.com.

Dr. P. Phillips Hospital and Holy Family Catholic Women Team Up for Health Expo 2010

9/22/2010 12:00:00 AM

Orlando, FL Sept. 21, 2010 – Dr. P. Phillips Hospital and Holy Family Catholic Women teamed up for Expo 2010 and Health Symposium. The expo, held at Holy Family Catholic Church Parish Life Center, featured presentations on women’s gynecologic health and well-being by Drs. Peter Casella, MD; Frank Leiva, MD; John Martin, MD; and Mercedes Rodriguez, MD, MBA. The Orlando Health Air Care helicopter and Orange County Fire and Rescue teams were also on hand to display their fire truck and ambulance and provide tours for the public.

Dr. P. Phillips Hospital employees helped spread the word about healthy living at Health Expo 2010. From left, Patty Bobryk, therapy dog Ballard II, Susan Scarborough, Tracy Carrasco, Erin Hyde, Jennifer Dawson-Beach, Katie Henderson

Dr. P. Phillips Hospital
Dr. P. Phillips Hospital, part of the nationally recognized Orlando Health system, is a complete medical and surgical facility serving southwest Orange County. With 237 acute care beds, Dr. Phillips Hospital offers specialized programs including cardiovascular surgery, laparoscopic surgery, emergency medicine and an accredited Chest Pain Center. Dr. Phillips serves residents and visitors to Orlando’s sprawling tourist complex, including Walt Disney World, Universal Studios and SeaWorld. For more information, visit www.drphillipshospital.com.

Pink Fire Trucks Roll Through Central Florida To Raise Cancer Awareness

9/15/2010 12:00:00 AM

Orlando, FL - September 14, 2010 – A fleet of pink fire trucks will roll into the Orlando area this week to draw attention to the fight against cancer and raise valuable dollars for life-saving care and research. The pink fire trucks will be on display Friday, September 17 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando, 1400 S. Orange Ave., and Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children, 92 West Miller Street. The public is invited to stop by and sign the pink fire engines with messages of support in the fight against cancer.

The pink fire trucks are traveling the nation to spread cancer awareness as part of the “Pink Heals Tour.” The tour will be manned by professional firefighters in full pink gear who call themselves the “Guardians of the Ribbon.” The pink crew will share stories of hope as they visit with oncology patients at MD Anderson - Orlando and Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children.

Local firefighters have partnered with Pink Heals for this free event, hosting fitness challenge games for children and adults, selling pink T-shirts and collecting donations, with proceeds to benefit MD Anderson – Orlando. Pink will be the color of the day. Local firefighters will sport pink and invite others to wear pink on September 17 to show support in the fight against cancer.

"MD Anderson - Orlando is honored to be a stop on the Pink Heals National Tour," said Clarence Brown, MD, President and CEO of MD Anderson – Orlando. "This event will not only help us move closer to finding a cure but will also provide hope and support for Central Floridians battling this disease."

Additionally, the Pink Heals fleet of fire trucks will be deployed throughout the day at locations in Winter Park, Orlando and Reedy Creek. The final stop and grand finale is scheduled to begin at 5 p.m. at Wall Street Plaza in downtown, where crews will park the five trucks for the closing celebration of the Central Florida tour. The evening will include more opportunities to sign the trucks, firefighter challenges and music.

“Saving lives and raising awareness about cancer is fundamental to the wellness of our community, so it will be our honor to wear our pink with pride and support this worthy cause,” adds Darrel McCrystal, vice president of Orange County Professional Fire Fighters Local 2057.

Editor’s note: Members of the news media are invited to join the Pink Heals crews as they visit patients at MD Anderson – Orlando and Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children. For media access contact Katie Dagenais with MD Anderson – Orlando Media Relations, 407-242-0305.

Pink Heals Tour 2010
The Pink Heals Tour is a national outreach initiative by Guardians of The Ribbon, a coalition of firefighters and police officers who partner with local fire departments and community leaders to raise awareness about cancer and support women battling the disease. For more information on the tour and the organization’s “Care Enough to Wear Pink” national campaign, go to www.pinkfiretrucks.org.

MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando
MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando, part of Orlando Health, is affiliated with The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando in Houston. U.S. News & World Report recently ranked MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando as the top cancer treatment center in the U.S. and has ranked it as one of the top two cancer centers for the past 13 years. Orlando Health, a 1,882-bed community-owned, Florida not-for-profit organization established in 1918, annually serves nearly 2 million Central Florida residents and more than 4,500 international patients. More information is available at www.mdacco.com.

Orlando Health Signs Agreement to Implement Isabel's Diagnosis Decision Support System

8/30/2010 12:00:00 AM

MEDIA CONTACT

Don Bauman
Isabel Healthcare
734.332.0612
don.bauman@isabelhealthcare.com

Orlando, FL (August 10, 2010) -- Orlando Health has partnered with Isabel Healthcare to implement an innovative web-based diagnosis decision support checklist tool to assist physicians with diagnosis decisions.

The Isabel system will be made available to over 2000 physicians practicing within the health system as part of Orlando's ongoing commitment to quality and patient safety. While most diagnoses are reached through the experience and knowledge of the physician, in 10 - 15% of the cases they are more difficult to determine. Isabel assists by accelerating the process for determining the diagnosis of a patient in those situations where there is some question.

The system is designed to complement the physician's expertise by producing a differential diagnosis checklist of those diagnoses most closely related to a given patient's clinical features. A patient's pertinent signs and symptoms are entered into the system and a differential diagnosis checklist is instantly returned. In addition to the diagnosis support Isabel assists with ongoing training by providing access to up to date information from medical journals and textbooks, hospital protocols, and online web resources.

"Missed information and delayed diagnosis can result in unnecessary testing and prolonged hospital stays, both of which can adversely affect patient care," said Jay Falk, M.D., chief academic medical officer for Orlando Health. "Isabel can be a powerful tool in helping to avoid these pitfalls while having the added benefit of helping to educate our physicians by broadening their differential diagnostic considerations."

The Isabel system was conceived 10 years ago as a direct response to the near-fatal misdiagnosis of a three-year-old girl in London named Isabel Maude, who developed necrotizing fasciitis, a complication of chicken pox. Both the girl's primary care physician and the local hospital's emergency department failed to recognize the typical clinical features of necrotizing fasciitis, a potentially fatal illness, and sent her home.

The girl's father, Jason Maude, founded Isabel Healthcare Inc. in 2000 based on his daughter's experience. Today, both Isabels are doing well. Maude's daughter is a happy and healthy teenager and his technology is being incorporated at more and more hospitals around the world. The system not only assists in making the right diagnosis, but also helps answer clinical questions with up-to-date knowledge related to specific diagnoses.

A unique aspect of the Orlando Health/Isabel healthcare partnership will provide for the Isabel system to be completely integrated into the health systems electronic medical record system. This will allow Isabel to be used seamlessly in the clinical workflow of the physician and will empower the information in the electronic record, extending its patient safety benefits to Central Florida residents.

"As always it is the responsibility of the CMIO to identify information systems that will support our clinical team in its endeavor to provide the best possible care for our patients," said Steve Margolis M.D., chief medical informatics officer for Orlando Health. "In this circumstance it means providing our caregivers with the most informed, comprehensive and timely information that will assist and support the care of our patients. By integrating Isabel into the normal care process of our providers, we hope to accelerate the care of our patients as well as improve the efficiency and effectiveness of the care process itself."

"We are excited about our partnership with Orlando Health and bringing Isabel to their physicians as an integral part of their electronic medical record" said Don Bauman, Isabel Healthcare USA's CEO. "Isabel provides vital support at the most important step in the care delivery process-determining the diagnosis of the patient. Speed to correct diagnosis has tremendous downstream clinical quality, financial, legal and patient satisfaction impacts. We are proud to be working with them on this effort."

The Isabel system will be made available to all physicians at Orlando Health via the electronic medical record system, providing access for them where and when they need the system.

About Orlando Health
Orlando Health is a $1.7 billion not-for-profit health care organization and a community-based network of hospitals and care centers in the Orlando region. The organization, which includes the area's only Level One Trauma Centers for adults and pediatrics, is a statutory teaching hospital system that offers both specialty and community hospitals. They are: Orlando Regional Medical Center; Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children; Winnie Palmer Hospital for Women & Babies; Dr. P. Phillips Hospital; South Seminole Hospital; South Lake Hospital (50 percent partnership); St. Cloud Regional Medical Center (20 percent partnership) and MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando - the first affiliate of one of the nation's premier cancer centers The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando in Houston. Orlando Health's areas of clinical excellence are heart and vascular, cancer care, neurosciences, surgery, pediatric orthopedics and sports medicine, neonatology, and obstetrics and gynecology.

About Isabel Healthcare
Isabel Healthcare Inc. was founded in 2000 by Jason Maude, and is named after Maude's daughter who almost died after a potentially fatal illness was not recognized. Isabel Healthcare provides, Isabel Pro, a web-based Diagnosis Decision Support System designed to help mitigate risk of diagnosis error and related downstream clinical, financial and legal outcomes. Designed to complement a physician's clinical expertise, Isabel operates within their workflow either integrated into the EMR system or on its own, providing actionable knowledge where and when the clinician needs it.

MD Anderson Awarded $1.5 million Research Grant

8/25/2010 12:00:00 AM

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By: David Rosenfield
Orlando MedicalNews
Posted: Wednesday, August 11, 2010 8:14 am

Charles Rosser, MD, MBA, has a rare opportunity as a urologic oncologist at MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando where he splits his time between treating patients and conducting experiments on mice.

Rosser is about to get a lot busier.

MD Anderson – Orlando, part of Orlando Health and affiliated with MD Anderson Cancer Center in Houston, was recently awarded $1.5 million in grants mostly for bladder cancer research.

The bulk of the funds – $1.3 million – will support a three-year project led by Rosser looking at new ways to diagnose and treat bladder cancer while Philip Arlen, PhD, and Olena Tirpak, PhD, will lead separate studies into prostate and lung cancer.

The money comes from the Florida Department of Health James and Esther King Biomedical Research Program and the Bankhead-Coley Cancer Research Program. It marks one of the largest cancer research grants in the state.

Rosser said some of the goals of the grant include how to address bladder cancer with a multi-disciplinary approach that has specialists better communicating with one another. "We want to break down these silos and get everyone working together," Rosser said.

An estimated 60,000 people in the United State are diagnosed each year with bladder cancer while 12,000 people likely die each year from the disease.

The research grants will also include some involvement with the University of Miami, Mayo Clinic Jacksonville, University of Central Florida and Moffitt Cancer Center.

For the first year of Rosser's research grant he will examine the effects of a new drug developed by Altor BioScience. In the second year, provided the drug yields positive results, Rosser will administer it on patients in human drug trials. In this respect, Rosser is a physician-scientist.

"Really the only people who can successfully take a drug from the bench to the bedside are the physician-scientists," Rosser said.

Other parts of the grant include researching ways to detect bladder cancer in urine rather than using invasive tests and how tobacco use contributes to onset of the disease.

"We're all excited and proud to bring this here," Rosser said.

New Name for Neonatal Intensive Care Unit at Winnie Palmer Hospital

8/22/2010 12:00:00 AM

Orlando, FL (August 21, 2010) - The Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) at Winnie Palmer Hospital for Women & Babies will now be known as the Alexander Center for Neonatology in honor of Gregor Alexander, M.D., a longtime neonatologist who has cared for thousands of newborn babies in Central Florida.

"Dr. Alexander is a pioneer in the field of neonatology and he has dedicated his life to delivering heartfelt care to the most fragile lives arriving in our hospital," stated Kathy Swanson, president of Winnie Palmer Hospital. "His tremendous influence is felt by all of us throughout the hospital and so many others in the community who have experienced his compassionate touch."

Dr. Alexander joined Orlando Regional Healthcare in 1977 as Director of Newborn Services. Under his leadership, the department has grown exponentially. In 2006, Winnie Palmer Hospital opened its doors and the NICU quickly grew to become one of the largest in the nation and among the best in terms of survival and quality of life. He assembled an aggressive, dynamic, and compassionate team of nurses, respiratory therapists, family counselors and physicians. He also helped establish programs such as ECMO (Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation), Infant Audiology, developmentalists, counseling services of Neonatal Family Specialists, and the growth and expansion of the newborn transport team.

He currently serves as the Chairman of the Arnold Palmer Medical Center Foundation and has served as Chairman of the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, Chairman of the Pediatrics Department, and Chairman of the Greater Orlando Children's Miracle Network Board.

Winnie Palmer Hospital for Women & Babies
Winnie Palmer Hospital for Women & Babies, supported by the Arnold Palmer Medical Center Foundation, is a 285-bed facility dedicated exclusively to the needs of women and babies. The hospital includes comprehensive fetal diagnostics and labor and delivery services, a regional center for neonatal intensive care, maternal intensive care and women's services. Annually, more than 14,000 babies are expected to be born at Winnie Palmer Hospital, making it the busiest labor and delivery unit in the state of Florida. To learn more, visit www.winniepalmerhospital.com.

Hyundai Hope on Wheels Donates $50,000 to Arnold Palmer Hospital to Fight Childhood Cancer

8/18/2010 12:00:00 AM

MEDIA CONTACT

Eddie Garcia
Allison & Partners
310.496.4470
eddie@allisonpr.com

Orlando, FL - August 18, 2010 - Hyundai Motor America and its dealers announced today that Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children in Orlando, Florida has been selected to receive a donation of $50,000 from Hyundai Hope on Wheels™. The 2010 Hope on Wheels Tour is traveling nationwide to donate more than $2.1 million to childhood cancer research institutions and will be making a stop at Arnold Palmer Hospital today at 10:00 a.m. to present the check at a ceremonial event.

Don Eslin, M.D., vice-chair for the Pediatric Oncology Department at Arnold Palmer Hospital, has been named a 2010 Hyundai Scholar, and will use the funds to support his research into the use of Tolfenamic Acid and Tamoxifen for the treatment of neuroblastoma, which is the most common solid tumor (outside of the brain) in children and accounts for nearly 10 percent of all childhood cancers. Despite steady improvements in cure rates overall in childhood cancer, the survival rates for patients with neuroblastoma continue to be low. Doctor Eslin will be recognized and the hospital's childhood cancer patients will take part in the Hope on Wheels Handprint Ceremony, during which they dip their hands in finger paint and apply their colorful handprints to a white Hyundai Santa Fe. The car, which is covered in children's handprints from all over the country, is the symbol of Hyundai Hope on Wheels.

"We are inspired every day by the brave children we meet at our Handprint Ceremonies," said Bill Nero of Universal Hyundai. "When the kids place their handprints on the car, we are honoring their brave battles against cancer, commemorating their triumphs and sharing their hope for the future with other children and their families across the country."

"On behalf of Hyundai dealers across the country, Hope on Wheels is honored to continue its support for childhood cancer research in 2010 and recognize the brave children who are battling this disease," said Oscar Leeser, President of the Hyundai Hope on Wheels Foundation and dealer owner of Hyundai of El Paso in El Paso, Texas. "We are proud to be able to award research grants to the Hyundai Scholars - they are the pediatric oncologists whose unwavering dedication to research helps to care for children facing cancer and gives them hope for a healthy future."

The Center for Children's Cancer and Blood Disorders at Arnold Palmer Hospital combines the resources of the renowned MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando to create a special place for treating children with cancer. "We are honored to host the 2010 Hope on Wheels Tour at Arnold Palmer Hospital," stated Don Eslin, M.D. "Each one of these handprints is a symbol of hope and we are proud to have Hyundai as a supporter in researching new strategies to treat our childhood cancer patients so that their hopes come true."

This year Hyundai Hope on Wheels marks 12 years of commitment to childhood cancer research efforts. Hyundai and its dealers have donated more than $14 million to children's hospitals nationwide and collected hundreds of handprints from children fighting childhood cancer. More information and the complete list of more than 40 stops on the 2010 Hyundai Hope on Wheels Tour is available at www.hyundaihopeonwheels.org.

Hyundai Motor America
Hyundai Motor America, headquartered in Fountain Valley, Calif., is a subsidiary of Hyundai Motor Co. of Korea. Hyundai vehicles are distributed throughout the United States by Hyundai Motor America and are sold and serviced through all 780 dealerships nationwide.

Hyundai Hope on Wheels
Hyundai Hope on Wheels™ is the united effort of the all 780 Hyundai dealers across the U.S. to raise awareness about childhood cancer and celebrate the lives of children battling the disease. Hyundai and its dealers have donated more than $14 million to pediatric cancer research and is an independent 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization.

MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando Adds Five Oncologists to Team

7/29/2010 12:00:00 AM

Orlando, FL – July 29, 2010 – MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando welcomes five oncologists to its team.

	Debashish Bose, MD joins the Surgical Oncology team as a pancreatic surgeon. Dr. Bose comes to Central Florida from MD Anderson in Houston where he was a surgical oncology fellow. Dr. Bose was the recipient of the 2009 and 2010 Merit Award at the Gastrointestinal Cancers Symposium.
	Christopher Bryant, MD, joins the Gynecologic Oncology team. Dr. Bryant completed his obstetrics and gynecology training at St. John Hospital and Medical Center in Detroit, Michigan. He has received many honors and awards and has 25 articles in referred journals.
	Sreeram Maddipatla, MD joins the Medical Oncology/Hematology team. Dr. Maddipatla recently completed his fellowship in hematology oncology at MD Anderson – Orlando. He has published articles in peer-reviewed journals including the Clinical Cancer Research and Oncology.
	Kavita Pattani, MD joins the Head and Neck Surgical Oncology team. Dr. Pattani comes to Central Florida from Johns Hopkins Medical Institutions in Baltimore, MD where she was a head and neck surgery fellow. She has presented at several meetings across the country including the International AHNS Head and Neck Meeting.
	Justin Rineer, MD joins the Radiation Oncology department. Dr. Rineer comes to Central Florida from MD Anderson in Houston where he was an advanced radiation oncology fellow. Dr. Rineer was a recipient of the 2008 and 2009 ASCO Foundation Award for original research presented at the ASCO Annual Meeting.

MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando, part of Orlando Health, is affiliated with The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando in Houston. U.S. News & World Report recently ranked MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando as the top cancer treatment center in the U.S. and has ranked it as one of the top two cancer centers for the past 13 years. Orlando Health, a 1,780-bed community-owned, Florida not-for-profit organization established in 1918, annually serves nearly 2 million Central Florida residents and more than 4,500 international patients. More information is available at www.mdandersonorlando.org.

Orlando Health hosts GIGANTIC Garage Sale to raise money for the Greater Orlando Start! Heart Walk 2010

7/28/2010 12:00:00 AM

Who:	Heartfelt named Orlando Health Heart Walk Teams including the Cardiac Cath Lab Broken Heart Menders, the Heart Strings, the Oxy-Transporters, and the Pulse.
What:	Orlando Health Heart Walk Teams invite the community to the fun frenzy of its GIGANTIC Garage Sale to find treasures while raising funds for the Greater Orlando Start! Heart Walk (October 2). More than 20 Heart Walk Teams will spend the day “wheeling and dealing” the “gently used” and “like new” items including house wares, furniture, sports equipment, clothing, books, toys and other finds. All proceeds from the sales go directly toward the teams’ total funds raised to help in the fight against the country’s No. 1 and No. 3 killers, heart diseases and stroke. Unsold items will be donated to local charitable organizations. In addition to the shop for the heart opportunities, heart health information will be available.
When:	Saturday, August 14 7:00 am - 3:00 pm
Where:	Orlando Regional Medical Center campus Ground Floor, Lucerne Terrace Parking Garage (Corner of Lucerne Terrace and Copeland Street) Complimentary parking available at garage.
Interview/ Photo Opps:	“Garage Sale Diva” Patty Harper, BSN, RN-BC, nursing operations manager, cardiac rehabilitation at Orlando Regional Medical Center “Go to guys and gals” on the Orlando Health Heart Walk Teams Orlando Health administrators and managers
Media Contact:	Sabrina Childress Orlando Health Media Relations & Public Affairs Manager Phone: 321.841.8748 Mobile: 407.765.7828 Email: sabrina.childress@orlandohealth.com

Winnie Palmer Hospital Triage Unit Expands

7/23/2010 12:00:00 AM

Orlando, FL (July 22, 2010) - Winnie Palmer Hospital for Women & Babies is unveiling a newly expanded women's triage unit.

The expansion of the triage unit will add 3,346 square feet of space to the existing unit, which is currently one of the busiest in the nation. It will feature eight new exam rooms and one room with fetal ultrasound capabilities. The new triage will maintain the design philosophy evident throughout the hospital, which places special attention on creating a soothing, healing environment with warm décor and natural ambiance.

In addition to the expansion, the existing triage is undergoing a renovation to update furnishings and décor in the 18-room unit. Total cost for the expansion and renovation project will be $2 million.

"Since we opened in 2006, we've seen more than 35,000 patients per year, making this triage unit one of the busiest in the country," states Sheila Bystrak, administrator for obstetrics and women's surgery at Winnie Palmer Hospital. "This expansion and renovation mean shorter wait times for those patients and a reinforcement of our commitment to Orlando Health's patient first philosophy."

Winnie Palmer Hospital for Women & Babies
Winnie Palmer Hospital for Women & Babies, supported by the Arnold Palmer Medical Center Foundation, is a 285-bed facility dedicated exclusively to the needs of women and babies. The hospital includes comprehensive fetal diagnostics and labor and delivery services, a regional center for neonatal intensive care, maternal intensive care and women's services. Annually, more than 14,000 babies are expected to be born at Winnie Palmer Hospital, making it the busiest labor and delivery unit in the state of Florida. To learn more, visit www.winniepalmerhospital.com.

MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando Names New Medical and Scientific Director

7/22/2010 12:00:00 AM

Orlando, FL – July 21, 2010 – Mark Roh, MD, an internationally renowned liver cancer surgeon at MD Anderson – Orlando has been appointed the cancer center’s Medical and Scientific Director. In his new leadership role, Dr. Roh, who reports to the center’s CEO, will oversee all clinical activities within the cancer center and have responsibility for clinical, basic and translational research carried out at MD Anderson – Orlando, including the Cancer Research Institute.

Dr. Roh joined Orlando Health in August 2009 as the Chairman of the Department of Surgery of MD Anderson - Orlando and Academic Chairman of the Department of Surgery of Orlando Health. In addition to leading efforts to build world-class departments of surgery, Dr. Roh has initiated a Liver Cancer Center at MD Anderson – Orlando.

“Dr. Roh is a tremendous asset to the entire Orlando Health organization,” said Clarence Brown, III, MD, President and CEO of MD Anderson – Orlando. “Here at MD Anderson – Orlando, Dr. Roh works with patients from around the country who have been referred to him for his highly technical approaches to the treatment of very complex and serious malignant diseases of the liver. I look forward to our continued growth with Dr. Roh in the very important role as our Medical and Scientific Director.”

MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando, part of Orlando Health, is affiliated with The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando in Houston. U.S. News & World Report recently ranked MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando as the top cancer treatment center in the U.S. and has ranked it as one of the top two cancer centers for the past 13 years. Orlando Health, a 1,780-bed community-owned, Florida not-for-profit organization established in 1918, annually serves nearly 2 million Central Florida residents and more than 4,500 international patients. More information is available at www.mdandersonorlando.org.

MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando Receives $1.5 Million to Fund Cancer Research

6/16/2010 12:00:00 AM

Orlando, FL – June 16, 2010 – MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando will continue to forge new pathways in cancer research thanks to recent grant awards totaling more than $1.5 million. The three grants awarded to MD Anderson – Orlando researchers come from the Florida Department of Health James and Esther King Biomedical Research Program and the Bankhead-Coley Cancer Research Program. The funding will be used by MD Anderson Orlando’s Cancer Research Institute to find new methods to diagnosis and treat bladder and lung cancer.

“We are thrilled to receive these valuable dollars to fund the work that we are doing here in Central Florida,” said Clarence Brown, III, MD, President and CEO, MD Anderson – Orlando. “Our Cancer Research Institute has many ongoing and future research projects that are focused on developing new cancer fighting drugs and new treatments to save lives. These funds will help to steer these projects and work toward our ultimate goal of a cure for cancer.”

Charles Rosser, M.D., M.B.A., Philip Arlen, Ph.D., and Orena Tirpak, Ph.D. will serve as the lead investigators on these grants.

MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando

MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando, part of Orlando Health, is affiliated with The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando in Houston. U.S. News & World Report recently ranked MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando as the top cancer treatment center in the U.S. and has ranked it as one of the top two cancer centers for the past 13 years. Orlando Health, a 1,882-bed community-owned, Florida not-for-profit organization established in 1918, annually serves nearly 2 million Central Florida residents and more than 4,500 international patients. More information is available at www.mdacco.com.

Arnold Palmer Hospital Ranks Among America's Best Children's Hospitals by U.S. News & World Report

6/4/2010 12:00:00 AM

Orlando, FL (June 3, 2010) - Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children has been ranked 30th for heart and heart surgery, and 28th for orthopedics in U.S. News & World Report's 2010 edition of America's Best Children's Hospitals. Arnold Palmer Hospital is the only hospital in Central Florida to be included in the rankings.

The annual rankings included the 30 top hospitals in cancer, diabetes and endocrinology, gastroenterology, heart and heart surgery, kidney disorders, neonatology, neurology and neurosurgery, orthopedics, respiratory disorders, and urology.

"It is an honor to be included in this prestigious list alongside some of the most well-respected names in pediatric care," stated John Bozard, president, Arnold Palmer Medical Center. "We're very proud of the physicians and staff who lead the way in providing inspired and advanced care for kids throughout central Florida."

For 2010, 170 pediatric centers were asked to complete a 75-page online survey. Most of the centers surveyed are members of the National Association of Children's Hospitals and Related Institutions (NACHRI) and fit the description of standalone centers or a hospital within a hospital. A small number of specialty and non-NACHRI hospitals were added because they were previously ranked or were recommended by trusted sources. Hospitals were ranked on how well they did in three areas: reputation, medical outcomes (such as cancer survival), and care-related indicators of quality (such as the number of patients, nurse staffing, and availability of specialized programs).

Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children

Telemedicine Brings Congenital Heart Institute's Unique Cardiac Mri Expertise Daily To Patients In Orlando

6/3/2010 12:00:00 AM

Orlando, Fla (June 2, 2010) -- Pediatric and adult congenital heart patients in Orlando are benefiting from a new telemedicine connection that is making cardiac MRI services more accessible to patients. Thanks to specialized MRI software, and voice and video internet connections between the two campuses of the Congenital Heart Institute at Miami Children's Hospital and Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children- referred to as "one program at two locations" - patients at the Orlando campus now have ready access to cardiac MRI expertise.

Prior to the connection, Dr. Ruchira Garg, one of a small but growing number of cardiac MRI specialists nationwide, traveled monthly to Orlando to perform cardiac MRIs. Now, patients can have the procedures scheduled as needed rather than wait for Dr. Garg's monthly visits. Dr. Garg scans patients and directs on-site technical staff in Orlando through the internet connection, then relays essential results to the managing cardiologists and surgeons in Orlando.

"As more and more children born with heart defects survive and thrive, thanks to interventional advancements, the need for cardiac MRI continues to grow," said Dr. Garg. "Early in a patient's care, echocardiography is the gold standard to assess heart anatomy and function. After multiple surgeries and repairs, scar tissue often makes it more difficult to obtain diagnostic echocardiographic images. For these patients, cardiac MRI is usually the best method for evaluating heart anatomy and function," said Dr. Garg.

Dr. Garg is a pediatric cardiologist who joined the Miami Children's Hospital Congenital Heart Institute in 2006 to establish the Cardiac MRI program. She is specifically trained in noninvasive imaging, including the techniques and interpretation of congenital cardiac MRI. Dr. Garg comes to Miami from The Children's Hospital, Denver, where she successfully established a Congenital Cardiac MRI program. Dr. Garg also serves as the co-director of the Echocardiography Laboratory, where she performs fetal echocardiograms to diagnose fetal heart disease.

Dr. Garg earned her medical degree at the Medical College of Pennsylvania; she then completed her internship and residency in pediatrics at Johns Hopkins University. She completed her pediatric cardiology training at Columbus Children's Hospital (now Nationwide Children's Hospital), followed by an additional year of fellowship in noninvasive imaging at Children's Hospital Boston. Dr. Garg is a diplomate of the American Board of Pediatrics and Sub-Board of Pediatric Cardiology, and a Fellow of the American College of Cardiology.

Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children

Miami Children's Hospital

Founded in 1950 by Variety Clubs International, Miami Children's Hospital® is South Florida's only licensed specialty hospital exclusively for children, with more than 650 attending physicians and over 130 pediatric sub-specialists. The 289-bed hospital is renowned for excellence in all aspects of pediatric medicine with several specialty programs ranked among the best in the nation in 2008 and 2009 by U.S.News & World Report. The hospital is also home to the largest pediatric teaching program in the southeastern United States and has been designated an American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) Magnet facility, the nursing profession's most prestigious institutional honor.

Dr. P. Phillips Hospital and Mark McEwen Help Raise Awareness for Stroke

5/18/2010 12:00:00 AM

Orlando, FL - May 18, 2010 - Dr. P. Phillips Hospital, with the help of guest speaker Mark McEwen, recently raised awareness for stroke at its inaugural Stroke Awareness Month event. McEwen, former CBS weatherman and stroke survivor, spoke at the event about his experience and the treatment he received four years ago as a patient of Dr. Phillips Hospital. Dr. David Portee, Medical Director for Orlando Health Rehabilitation Institute and Dr. Nizam Razack, Board Certified Neurological Surgeon also shared valuable information about stroke risk factors, warning signs, rehabilitation and stroke survival.

David Portee, MD, Medical Director for Orlando Health Rehabilitation Institute, Mark McEwen, and Nizam Razack, MD, Board Certified Neurological Surgeon

With a stroke, minutes matter. Early diagnosis and treatment, within three hours of the onset of stroke symptoms, can significantly improve the chance of recovery. Knowing the warning signs of a stroke is the key to surviving a stroke.

Mark McEwen encourages people to know the stroke warning signs and not to be afraid to call 911 if they experience any such symptoms. "I always say err on the side of caution," said McEwen. "It is one thing to be red faced and embarrassed. It's another thing to suffer from a stroke, you don't want that."

Stroke warning signs include:

Sudden numbness or weakness of the face, arm or leg, especially on one side of the body
Sudden confusion, trouble speaking or understanding
Sudden trouble seeing in one or both eyes
Sudden trouble walking, dizziness, loss of balance or coordination
Sudden severe headache
Transient ischemic attack (TIA) often referred to as a "mini-stroke."

From left to right: Anthony Lado, director, Human Resources; Susan Williams, administrator, Patient Care; Anita Loggins, administrator, Patient Care; Mark Jones, president, Dr. P. Phillips Hospital; Mark McEwen, Paul Johns, administrator, Ancillary Services; Carol Frechette, chief financial officer, Dr. P. Phillips Hospital

Dr. P. Phillips Hospital

Dr. P. Phillips Hospital, part of the nationally recognized Orlando Health system, is a complete medical and surgical facility serving southwest Orange County. With 237 acute care beds, Dr. Phillips Hospital offers specialized programs including cardiovascular surgery, laparoscopic surgery, emergency medicine and an accredited Chest Pain Center. Dr. Phillips serves residents and visitors to Orlando's sprawling tourist complex, including Walt Disney World, Universal Studios and SeaWorld. For more information, visit www.drphillipshospital.com.

Neurosurgery Group Joins Arnold Palmer Hospital

5/14/2010 12:00:00 AM

Orlando, FL - May 13, 2010 - Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children is the new home to a group of local neurosurgeons. They will join the hospital's Pediatric Specialty Practices, which houses a wide variety of pediatric specialists who provide patients efficient, high-quality care.

The group includes Greg Olavarria, MD, Jogi Pattisapu, MD, Christopher A. Gegg, MD, and Keyne K. Johnson, MD. They will offer patients at Arnold Palmer Hospital decades of experience in all areas of neurosurgery, including the treatment of epilepsy, hydrocephalus, spina bifida, brain and spine tumors, and much more.

"We're very pleased to have such an accomplished and well-respected group of physicians join us," stated Janet Livingston, administrator, Pediatric Specialty Practices. "Our new group of neurosurgeons offers our patients a wider spectrum of care with greater convenience and service."

Stroke Survivor Mark McEwen and Dr. P. Phillips Hospital’s Dr. Backer help to raise stroke awareness

5/14/2010 12:00:00 AM

Mark McEwen, former CBS weatherman and stroke survivor and Dr. Jeffery Backer, Chief Medical Officer, Dr. P. Phillips Hospital appeared on WKMG Channel 6 at 6pm to discuss stroke awareness. In the news story, Mark returns to Dr. Phillips Hospital’s Emergency Department, for the first time since he was treated there for his stroke four years ago, to speak with Channel 6’s Laura Diaz about his experience. Mark and Dr. Backer discussed stroke warning signs, risk factors and the upcoming Dr. Phillips Hospital stroke awareness event this Saturday, May 15. Mark will be the celebrity speaker for event. For more information and to register for the event call 321.8HEALTH or log on to http://bit.ly/ 97Ig6M.

Event Information:

Dr. P. Phillips Hospital
Stroke Awareness Event
Saturday, May 15
9am – 1pm

9400 Turkey Lake Road
Orlando, FL 32819

Click here to view the story.

A Decade of Support for Central Florida's Children

4/30/2010 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, FL (April 30, 2010) - Community leaders and many others gathered at the Howard Phillips Center for Children & Families to celebrate its 10th anniversary.

The Howard Phillips Center opened in 1999 with the formation of the Orange County Children's Advocacy Center, bringing a comprehensive system of child abuse assessment, advocacy and treatment to children in Central Florida. Since then, the center has grown to include other programs designed to provide dignity and healing for children, families and individuals who face overwhelming challenges like child abuse, sexual trauma, developmental disabilities, medically underserved youth, and HIV/AIDS.

The 10th anniversary celebration included proclamations on behalf of Orange County Mayor Rich Crotty and City of Orlando Mayor Buddy Dyer establishing April 29 as Howard Phillips Center for Children & Families Day in the City of Orlando and Orange County. In addition, leaders from the City of Orlando Police Department, Florida Department of Children and Families, Florida State Attorney's Office, Orange County Public Schools, Orange County Sheriff's Office, and Orlando Health were on hand for a symbolic re-signing of the protocol establishing the Orange County Children's Advocacy Center.

"The Howard Phillips Center is a tremendous asset for this community and by this community," stated John Bozard, president, Arnold Palmer Medical Center. "This celebration is an opportunity to recognize those who have made it possible to provide a decade of support for children and families throughout Central Florida."

Programs at the Howard Phillips Center include:

The Orange County Children's Advocacy Center (Including the Child Protection Team and the Healing Tree / Sexual Trauma Recovery Center) - Provides assessment, advocacy, and treatment - all in one child-friendly location
Teen Xpress, A mobile healthcare unit that provides a medical home and mental health counseling to underinsured and uninsured adolescents in at-risk areas in Orange County.
Healthy Families Orange, a home-visitation program that prevents child maltreatment and builds healthy, positive parenting behaviors for new mothers and fathers through education, referrals and resources.
The Developmental Center for Infants & Children / Early Steps, an early intervention program that provides specialized services for children up to the age of three who have or who are at risk for developmental delays and disabilities

About the Howard Phillips Center for Children & Families

The Howard Phillips Center, widely-recognized as one of the leaders in the country for its cutting-edge advocacy and outreach programs, is part of Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children. It is supported by the Arnold Palmer Medical Center Foundation and serves central Florida through the following programs: The Developmental Center for Infants & Children/Early Steps, Healthy Families Orange, Orange County Children's Advocacy Center, the Child Protection Team, the Healing Tree and Teen Xpress.

Arnold Palmer Hospital For Children

New Leadership Drives Howard Phillips Center for Children & Families

4/27/2010 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, FL (April 27, 2010) - The Howard Phillips Center for Children & Families is under the guidance of new leadership.

Marie Martinez, former vice president of case management services at Youth and Family Alternatives, Inc, has been named operations manager for the Howard Phillips Center. The new position is actually a homecoming for her.

From 1996 to 2008, Martinez held several leadership positions at the Howard Phillips Center, including program manager for the Orange County Children's Advocacy Center. She possesses a strong background in all phases of not-for-profit leadership, including management of large programs, community collaboration, grant management and relationship development with funders.

"Marie has earned respect throughout our community and the state of Florida for her tireless advocacy on the part of children and families and for her passion, knowledge and overall business savvy in the social services arena," states John Bozard, president, Arnold Palmer Medical Center. "We are pleased to announce Marie's return to Arnold Palmer Medical Center and the Howard Phillips Center and wish her all the best in her new role."

About the Howard Phillips Center for Children & Families
The Howard Phillips Center, widely-recognized as one of the leaders in the country for its cutting-edge advocacy and outreach programs, is part of Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children. It is supported by the Arnold Palmer Medical Center Foundation and serves central Florida through the following programs: The Developmental Center for Infants & Children/Early Steps, Healthy Families Orange, Orange County Children's Advocacy Center, the Child Protection Team, the Healing Tree and Teen Xpress.

Arnold Palmer Hospital For Children
Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children, supported by the Arnold Palmer Medical Center Foundation, is a 158-bed facility dedicated exclusively to the needs of children. Located in Orlando, Arnold Palmer Hospital provides expertise in pediatric specialties such as cardiac care, craniomaxillofacial surgery, emergency and trauma care, gastroenterology, nephrology, neurology, oncology, orthopedics, pulmonology and sports medicine. Visit www.arnoldpalmerhospital.com to learn more about all of our specialties.

Orlando Health Rehabilitation Institute uses latest technology to help patients walk, use hands

4/21/2010 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, Fla. (April 20, 2010) --- A remote control is changing the "channel" in the way therapists at Orlando Health Rehabilitation Institute help patients learn to walk and use their hands again after recovering from strokes, brain injuries, spinal cord injuries, and other neurological conditions. The remote control operates new functional electrical stimulation devices by Bioness® Inc. that attach to the legs or forearm and send electrical signals to the brain to stimulate muscle movement. Before now, more traditional and physical exercise methods were used without the use of this advanced technology.

With the new Bioness devices, a therapist attaches electrodes to a patient’s skin at key muscle points or areas that control foot movement for walking or hand movement for grasping and releasing. Next a device is placed just below the knee or on the forearm and hand. The system then sends electrical impulses to stimulate muscle movement. Therapists use a hand-held transmitter to program the amount of stimulation based on a patient’s needs and can make adjustments based on the patient’s progress. Patients use a remote to control the impulses and turn the devices on and off.

“This advanced technology stimulates muscles in ways we were unable to before,” said David Portée, MD, medical director, Rehabilitation Institute. “This tool in the therapists’ toolbox when used with traditional treatment options helps strengthen and re-educate muscles so patients can walk and grasp objects again.”

The devices help re-educate muscles by tapping into the muscle and facilitating contractions, explains Marissa Conrad, physical therapist, Outpatient Rehabilitation Services.

“More perfect practice in therapy sessions makes for more perfect movement, aiding in improvements with mobility and daily tasks including walking or using hands to grasp and release,” said Conrad.

The device for legs activates the muscle responsible for flexing the foot up for walking. The device for hands actives the muscles used to grasp and release objects like cups for drinking.

“For example, a person recovering from a stroke, may have a foot that is turned more inward or downward, making walking difficult,” said Conrad. “The new device stimulates muscles helping the foot move up and out to help with walking.”

The Rehabilitation Institute uses the technology in both inpatient and outpatient therapy sessions to maximize the potential for reeducating muscles for functional use, improving quality of life and safety for patients. Patient response and feedback to the new technology has been positive.

“We are seeing improvement in muscle movement from a patient’s first session throughout their therapy,” said Mariel Repetto, physical therapist, Rehabilitation Institute.

“We see the benefits carry over quickly into functional activities outside of the treatment session,” said Audra Brooks, physical therapist and rehab educator, Rehabilitation Institute. “For example, a patient using the hand device during therapy later showed improvement gripping the handles while using a walker to take steps.”

For an up close look at this new technology, the Rehabilitation Institute will host a screening day on Tuesday, May 4, from 1 to 4 p.m. at Rehabilitation Institute’s outpatient therapy gym at 100 W. Gore St., Suite 104. To register for the screening, or for additional information about the device, contact the Orlando Health Rehabilitation Institute at 321.841.8911.

About Orlando Health

Orlando Health is a $1.5 billion not-for-profit health care organization and a community-based network of hospitals and care centers in the Orlando region. The organization, which includes the area’s only Level One Trauma Centers for adults and pediatrics, is a statutory teaching hospital system that offers both specialty and community hospitals. They are: Orlando Regional Medical Center; Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children; Winnie Palmer Hospital for Women & Babies; Dr. P. Phillips Hospital; South Seminole Hospital; South Lake Hospital (50 percent partnership); St. Cloud Regional Medical Center (20 percent partnership) and MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando – the first affiliate of one of the nation’s premier cancer centers The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando in Houston. Orlando Health’s areas of clinical excellence are heart and vascular, cancer care, neurosciences, surgery, pediatric orthopedics and sports medicine, neonatology, and obstetrics and gynecology.

MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando and Women Playing For T.I.M.E. ® Celebrate Arrival of Central Florida's First Dragon Boat

4/9/2010 12:00:00 AM

MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando and Women Playing For T.I.M.E. ®Celebrate Arrival of Central Florida's First Dragon Boat

ORLANDO, FL. (April 8, 2010) - Those affected by breast cancer now have a new avenue, on the water, to help raise both awareness and funds to fight this disease. Women Playing For T.I.M.E.® (Technology, Immediate diagnosis, Mammography and Education) in partnership with MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando and the Orlando Rowing Club (ORC) are celebrating the arrival of Central Florida's first dragon boat. The WPFT dragon boat is a part of the ORC Dragon Boat Program and will be housed at Lake Fairview.

"It is wonderful to see this project become a reality," said Clarence Brown, MD, President and CEO of MD Anderson - Orlando. "WPFT has shown tremendous success in their golf and tennis tournaments and now their venture into dragon boat racing will provide yet another opportunity for them to raise awareness in the fight against breast cancer."

Dragon boat racing has become a popular sport among breast cancer survivors worldwide. Medical research has shown repetitive upper-body exercise in women treated for breast cancer discourages lymphedema, an abnormal buildup of fluid that causes swelling in the arms. The dragon boat, a long, narrow, human powered boat that seats 20 paddlers, a drummer and a steersperson originated in China more than 2,500 years ago. It is now becoming one of the fastest growing group sports in North America.

"There's such a rush when you are out on the water, paddling in sync," said Marci Likens, a breast cancer survivor, WPFT member and now a member of the local team Warriors on Water (W.O.W.). "The camaraderie and enthusiasm of these women is infectious and we have so much fun together." Likens and the W.O.W. team will be the first team, of many, to paddle out on Lake Fairview.

"We are grateful for all the volunteers of WPFT and the ORC who have worked together to create our dragon boat initiative," said Andrea Eliscu, WPFT dragon boat leader and ORC board member. "We know dragon boating creates a sense of teamwork, fun, health and wellness."

WPFT received a pledge of $250,000 from Harriett Lake to purchase the boat and fund the development of a dragon boat program for the Central Florida community. The WPFT dragon boat will be named in honor of Harriett's daughter, Shelley, who is a breast cancer survivor.

For more information on the WPFT dragon boat contact Lynda Canatay at 321.841.2272 or lynda.canatay@orlandohealth.com.

MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando, part of Orlando Health, is affiliated with The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando in Houston. U.S. News & World Report recently ranked MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando as the top cancer treatment center in the U.S. and has ranked it as one of the top two cancer centers for the past 13 years. Orlando Health, a 1,780-bed community-owned, Florida not-for-profit organization established in 1918, annually serves nearly 2 million Central Florida residents and more than 4,500 international patients. More information is available at www.mdandersonorlando.org.

Women Playing for T.I.M.E. ® (Technology, Immediate Diagnosis, Mammography and Education) was co-founded by Elaine Lustig and Sheila Solomon in 1993 in partnership with MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando, a part of Orlando Health. WPFT is a volunteer organization comprised of local women who dedicate their time, financial resources and efforts to raising awareness and financial support for the early detection, prevention and ultimately a cure of cancers affecting women. Since its inception, WPFT has raised nearly $8 million through signature golf and tennis tournaments and a variety of other events. Funds support breast cancer research and programs at MD Anderson - Orlando, including the purchase of technologies that provide for the immediate diagnosis and education of other forms of female-related cancers. More information is available at www.wpft.org.

‘Medical Marker’ Award Presented to MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando’s Cancer Research Institute

4/9/2010 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, FL. (April 9, 2010) – MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando’s Cancer Research Institute has received the ‘Medical Marker’ award from the Metro Orlando Economic Development Commission (EDC) in recognition for its investment in the Central Florida’s life science industry. Orlando Mayor Buddy Dyer presented the award to Clarence Brown, MD, President and CEO of MD Anderson - Orlando at a recent bioOrlando meeting. The ‘Medical Marker’ award is a part of the EDC’s bioOrlando initiative that celebrates and visually recognizes the medical, research and biotech companies that are the cornerstone of Metro Orlando’s burgeoning life science industry.

Dr. P. Phillips Hospital Receives Full Accreditation for Chest Pain Center

4/7/2010 12:00:00 AM

Orlando, FL – March 22, 2010 – Dr. P. Phillips Hospital’s Chest Pain Center has received Cycle III accreditation from the Society of Chest Pain Centers making it the first hospital in Orlando to receive this prestigious distinction.

Dr. Phillips Hospital’s Cycle III accreditation as a chest pain center sets it apart as a cardiac care facility. To receive the accreditation, the Chest Pain Center demonstrated expertise and commitment to quality patient care for the entire hospital experience -- from the moment a patient is picked up by ambulance through discharge from the hospital. The Society of Chest Pain Centers conducted an on-site review of Dr. Phillips Hospital and its employees which evaluated the use of proven best practices and collaboration with community emergency medical services. For example, employees were evaluated on their ability to recognize heart attack warning signs and how to help patients in a hospital, or members of the community, who are having chest discomfort or displaying heart attack warning signs.

“This accreditation is a reflection of the hard work and dedication by our team at Dr. Phillips Hospital and their commitment to emergency cardiac care,” says Mark Jones, president, Dr. Phillips Hospital. “We are extremely pleased with the Society’s designation as a Cycle III chest pain center and we look forward to continuing to serve the many patients and their families in the community who come to Dr. Phillips for cardiovascular care.”

Teen Xpress to receive the 2010 Community Innovation Award in Tallahassee

4/5/2010 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, Fla. (April 2, 2010) - Teen Xpress, a program offered by the Howard Phillips Center for Children & Families, will be recognized in Tallahassee next week and awarded the 2010 Children's Week Community Innovation Award.

"It is truly an honor to accept this wonderful recognition," stated Rita Soza, PhD, manager of Teen Xpress. "We work proudly with other organizations in our community to provide vital healthcare services and make a difference in the lives of so many children and families."

Teen Xpress is a mobile healthcare unit bringing free physical and mental healthcare to teens and adolescents who may otherwise not have access to such resources. Teen Xpress provides one-on-one attention from caring professionals including physicians, nurse practitioners and counselors who specialize in working with teens. Services are free, confidential and do not require health insurance.

The United Way of Florida and The Lawton Chiles Foundation designed the Community Innovation awards program and luncheon at the Capitol to recognize the collaborative work that is being done in communities across the state. "I've traveled all over the state, and it is amazing to see how communities and people join together to solve problems" said Bud Chiles, President of The Lawton Chiles Foundation.

Four collaborative projects were reviewed and selected by the independent Southeast Evaluation Association from a statewide pool of applicants. The award winners consist of four or more organizations who worked together to address and solve specific problems in their communities. On April 12 in Tallahassee, Teen Xpress will have their award presented to them at the Children's Week Community Innovation Awards Luncheon presented by the United Way of Florida and The Lawton Chiles Foundation, and co-chaired by U.S. Senator Bill Nelson, U.S. Senator George LeMieux, and former U.S. Senator Bob Graham.

"We want to provide policy makers in Tallahassee with a glimpse of the innovation that is taking place in neighborhoods and communities statewide, so hopefully they can replicate these innovative ideas in other communities across Florida." said Ted Granger, President of United Way of Florida.

About The Howard Phillips Center for Children & Families
The Howard Phillips Center, widely-recognized as one of the leaders in the country for its cutting-edge advocacy and outreach programs, is part of Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children, is supported by the Arnold Palmer Medical Center Foundation and serves central Florida through the following programs: The Developmental Center for Infants & Children/Early Steps, Healthy Families Orange, Orange County Children's Advocacy Center, the Child Protection Team, the Healing Tree and Teen Xpress.

Arnold Palmer Hospital Helps Ease Shortage of Local Pediatric Neuropsychologists

3/19/2010 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, Fla (March 19, 2010) - A new doctor at Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children will help ease a shortage of pediatric neuropsychologists in Central Florida.

Robyn J. Cohen, Ph.D., is the newest doctor to join Arnold Palmer Hospital's Pediatric Specialty Practices. She is a graduate of Rollins College in Winter Park, Florida and completed doctoral studies in clinical psychology at Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science in North Chicago, Illinois.

At Arnold Palmer Hospital, Cohen will provide neuropsychological care for pediatric patients affected by any cognitive-behavioral consequences of medical treatments for other ailments. She will treat patients with a wide variety of developmental disabilities, including language problems, autism, attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder, mobility and more.

"We are very pleased to have Dr. Cohen join Arnold Palmer Hospital," said Janet Livingston, Administrator, APH Pediatric Specialty Practices. "Her presence here allows us to provide a greatly needed service to our patients."

Cohen will be based at the Arnold Palmer Hospital Pediatric Specialty Practice located at 83 W. Columbia Street, Orlando, Fl 32806.

Arnold Palmer Hospital Boosts Capacity for Cardiac Care

3/2/2010 12:00:00 AM

Orlando, FL (March 2, 2010) - The Congenital Heart Institute at Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children is opening its new cardiovascular intensive care unit (CVICU), expanding its capacity to provide state-of-the-art cardiac care to a greater number of pediatric patients.

At $1.3 million, development of the 5,700-square-foot CVICU was funded by donations from the Children's Miracle Network. It will contain 20 beds dedicated to the treatment of children under the care of the cardiac physician team at Arnold Palmer Hospital. A unique feature in the new unit is the addition of six beds for the provision of cardiac care to neo-natal patients.

"The new CVICU is a place built just for kids and reflects the holistic approach we take in treating our young patients," says Harun Fakioglu, MD, Medical Director, CVICU. "We want this to be a place where children and their families can receive the individualized, focused care they expect with increased efficiency and in a space where every detail is designed to promote healing."

The Congenital Heart Institute at Arnold Palmer Hospital has provided cardiac care to the children of Central Florida for nearly a decade. In the last three years alone, more than 40,000 cardiac tests, 2,000 cardiac catheterization procedures and 700 surgeries have been performed at Arnold Palmer Hospital. Patients undergoing these procedures will now have the new CVICU to help achieve a faster road to recovery.

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Orlando Health Board of Directors selects the organization's next president/CEO

2/23/2010 12:00:00 AM

Orlando, FL (February 23, 2010) - Orlando Health's Board of Directors, led by Chairman Linda Chapin, has selected Sherrie Sitarik as the next president and CEO of the organization. Mrs. Sitarik will succeed John Hillenmeyer, whose retirement becomes effective the end of the year.

"The vote followed a 14-month succession planning process following John's announced plans to retire," said Mrs. Chapin. "During this period, we updated the strategic plan, conducted focus groups internally and with key constituencies and developed a role profile of the ideal candidate. After this very deliberate process, we evaluated Sherrie as the internal candidate and felt that she exemplified the qualities, characteristics and experience necessary to lead an organization the size and scope of Orlando Health into the future."

Mrs. Sitarik has served as executive vice president and chief strategy officer for Orlando Health since 2008. In that role, she was responsible for leading the organization's strategic planning process, including its ten-year strategic vision and plan, which was adopted by the board in 2009. Mrs. Sitarik's extensive executive experience also includes roles as president of Orlando Regional Medical Center/Lucerne Pavilion, vice president/patient care executive of acute services for the corporation, executive director of Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children and Women, and administrator for patient care at Arnold Palmer Hospital. Mrs. Sitarik has been with the organization since 1978, starting as a graduate nurse in the neonatal intensive care unit at Orlando Regional Medical Center.

"I am honored by the board's decision and the trust placed in me to lead Orlando Health," said Mrs. Sitarik. "The future of our industry will be both challenging and exciting as we continue the work of delivering extraordinary healthcare to this community."

The board will work with Sherrie and John on a smooth transition to ensure the organization continues to provide the highest quality of care for patients and maintains a strong financial position to allow it to be a provider of choice in Central Florida.

"John Hillenmeyer is to be commended not only for the gift of time to allow us a smooth transition but also for identifying Sherrie's talents and positioning her as his successor," adds Mrs. Chapin.

Orlando Health will continue to move forward with strategic planning initiatives that benefit the community and enhance its already strong position as a regional healthcare provider. It will continue to work with numerous partners in the community and its medical and professional teams will continue to provide the best care available to patients.

About Orlando Health

Orlando Health is a $1.5 billion not-for-profit health care organization and a community-based network of hospitals and care centers in the Orlando region. The organization, which includes the area's only Level One Trauma Centers for adults and pediatrics, is a statutory teaching hospital system that offers both specialty and community hospitals. They are: Orlando Regional Medical Center; Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children; Winnie Palmer Hospital for Women & Babies; Dr. P. Phillips Hospital; South Seminole Hospital; South Lake Hospital (50 percent partnership); St. Cloud Regional Medical Center (20 percent partnership) and MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando - the first affiliate of one of the nation's premier cancer centers The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando in Houston. Orlando Health's areas of clinical excellence are heart and vascular, cancer care, neurosciences, surgery, pediatric orthopedics and sports medicine, neonatology, and obstetrics and gynecology.

Teen Xpress Announces Partnership with YMCA of Central Florida

2/16/2010 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, FL (February 16, 2010) - The Teen Xpress mobile healthcare unit, a part of the Howard Phillips Center for Children & Families, is partnering with the YMCA of Central Florida - Wayne Densch Family Center to begin offering free medical services to adolescents and teens.

The partnership will provide medical services such as physical exams and immunizations to adolescents and teens ages 11 - 21 beginning February 17, 2010. Services will continue to be available the third Wednesday of every month until June 16, 2010 from 4:30pm - 6:30pm at the Wayne Densch Family Center located at 870 N. Hastings Street , Orlando, Florida 32808.

The partnership will serve as a pilot program for Teen Xpress, with hopes of expanding services in the area to more than one day per month. Assessments will also be made regarding the need for mental health counseling at this location in the future.

"Partnering with the YMCA of Central Florida is a great opportunity for Teen Xpress to reach a new audience of teens and adolescents who could really use our help," says Rita Soza, PhD, manager of Teen Xpress. "We are excited to be able to provide them with a medical home where they can feel safe and can get the help they need. I truly believe that we will be an asset to the kids in this area and a great resource for those who don't have regular access to doctors or nurses."

Teen Xpress' services will be available to adolescent members of the YMCA as well as to middle school students from St. Andrew Catholic School. Current Teen Xpress clients, from various community settings or schools such as Evans High School, may also take advantage of this new location by calling 321-843-5146 and scheduling an appointment.

Participants ages 12-18 who do not currently belong to the YMCA will have the opportunity to earn a one-year teen membership scholarship, generously donated by the Wayne Densch Family Center. Upon registering to receive services at Teen Xpress, adolescents who meet income requirements will have the chance to earn the membership scholarship, valued at more than $300.

About the YMCA of Central Florida
The YMCA of Central Florida is a place where commitment is high and making a positive impact on the lives of everyone living in Central Florida is priority number one. With 27 Family Centers in Orange, Seminole, Osceola, Lake, Brevard and Marion counties and thousands of volunteers, the YMCA of Central Florida impacts the lives of more than 200,000 kids, teens, adults and seniors each year.

About the Wayne Densch Family Center
For the past 17 years, the YMCA of Central Florida has been committed to serving the Pine Hills community of Orlando through the Wayne Densch Family Center. It offers the community a variety of constructive activities and programs for school-aged youth during after-school hours and the summer months. The Wayne Densch Family Center is a 24,000-square-foot facility with more than 3,000 members. In 2007, the center revealed a newly-renovated pool that includes a zero-depth feature. Other amenities include a wellness center, gymnasium, child development area, group exercise room, locker rooms, and 12 acres of ball fields on its campus.

ORMC electrophysiologists use new device to support the heart while performing life-saving procedures

2/10/2010 12:00:00 AM

Editor’s Note: Please contact Media Relations for doctor and patient interview opportunities.

ORLANDO, Fla. (February 10, 2010) --- Sometimes a patient’s heart needs a little extra support in order to receive the specialized treatment it needs. Electrophysiologists at Orlando Regional Medical Center (ORMC) are using Impella®, a new device to help hearts beat more efficiently, providing improved circulation, in order to perform procedures to treat cardiac conditions. ORMC is the first in Central Florida to use the device during electrophysiology procedures.

“This is a very significant advancement,” said Aurelio Duran, MD, cardiology chair at ORMC. "Mechanical assistance to the heart is like having a temporary artificial heart. It makes performing the needed procedures safer for patients and gives doctors greater control over patients’ blood pressure and stability.”

Having the assist device might be critical for the hundreds of thousands of patients with advanced heart failure with significantly weakened hearts as it makes it possible to receive other critical procedures like ablation to cure arrhythmia, angioplasty to clear blocked arteries, or a defibrillator implanted to help regulate heart beats.

The Impella device, by Abiomed, Inc., is a minimally invasive catheter-based pump that has been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for partial circulatory support for up to 6 hours. The pump is approximately the size of a pencil with a small catheter, which drives up to two and a half liters of blood flow per minute. This is about half of a normal heart's pumping capacity while at rest.

“Using a small tube or catheter, the device is temporarily placed in the heart, making blood circulation more effective and improving the overall cardiac function,” explains Dr. Duran, cardiology chair at ORMC.

Before the Impella device doctors used adrenaline like medicines and other devices such as a balloon-based pump for support.

The device is currently an option for ORMC patients with advanced heart failure during electrophysiology and other cardiac procedures. It is also used to help stabilize patients during heart attacks.

About Orlando Health

Wolverine Anesthesia Consultants pledge $600,000 for Orlando Regional Medical Center

2/4/2010 12:00:00 AM

Orlando, FL (January 18, 2010) -- Wolverine Anesthesia Consultants, the principal anesthesia group at Orlando Regional Medical Center (ORMC), has made a $600,000 philanthropic pledge to the Orlando Health Foundation to support the future expansion of ORMC.

"As one of Florida's most comprehensive centers for cardiovascular care and the state's busiest Level One Trauma Center, the operating rooms at ORMC stay busy 24 hours a day! " explains Roger Murbach, MD, president, Wolverine Anesthesia Consultants.

While other hospitals have anesthesiologists on-call during the night, Wolverine Anesthesia Consultants maintains two board-certified anesthesiologists and two nurse anesthetists in-house at ORMC between the hours of 11:00 p.m. and 7:00 a.m. to care for patients who need immediate surgery.

"We see first-hand the benefit that advanced medical facilities and leading-edge technology can have on patient outcomes," continues Murbach. "Our group is dedicated to helping Orlando Health and ORMC continue to offer the best healthcare to our community."

John Hillenmeyer, president and CEO, Orlando Health; Edward Stockton, MD; Sherry Buxton, administrator for Surgery, ORMC; Roger Murbach, MD; Andre Pichon, MD; Jay Gewolb, MD; Matthew Stewart, MD; Shannon Elswick, president of Adult Hospitals Group, Orlando Health; and John Bozard, president, Orlando Health Foundation and senior vice president, Orlando Health

In addition to his role as an anesthesiologist with Wolverine and chairman of anesthesiology at ORMC, Edward Stockton, MD, is a former chief of staff of Orlando Health. His experience offers another perspective to the importance of their charitable gift. "We realize that given the financial pressures hospitals face in today's healthcare environment, philanthropic support is more important now than ever. We want to do our part to help ensure ORMC is able to meet the growing needs of the community."

Says John Bozard, president, Orlando Health Foundation, "We are grateful for the tremendous leadership of Wolverine Anesthesia Consultants and other physician partners who not only provide excellent patient care, but who also support our mission through generous philanthropic efforts."

About Orlando Regional Medical Center

Orlando Health's flagship medical center, ORMC, is a tertiary care center with 808 acute care beds and is recognized as having one of Florida's largest cardiac programs.

ORMC is home to Central Florida's only Level One Trauma Center, which is one of only six in the state. It is Florida's first Level One Trauma Center to have an accredited Chest Pain Center and is supported by Central Florida's only hospital-based emergency air rescue transport service.

One of the state's six major teaching hospitals, ORMC offers graduate medical education in several specialties, including emergency medicine, OB/GYN, orthopedics, pediatrics and general surgery. Fellowship programs include colon rectal surgery, critical care surgery, pediatric orthopedics and hematology/oncology.

Additionally, ORMC provides sophisticated diagnostic and laboratory testing, medical and surgical services, intensive and progressive care, and wound management. ORMC also operates one of the state's regional burn and tissue rehabilitation centers and houses other special services including epilepsy monitoring and an in-patient acute rehabilitationprogram at its Lucerne Pavilion. For more information, visit www.myormc.com.

Orlando Health collects 24 pallets of supplies for Haiti

1/26/2010 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, Fla. (January 25, 2010) --- Today, Orlando Health delivered the first of 24 pallets of supplies to earthquake-ravaged Haiti. The first shipment, consisting of 10 pallets of personal hygiene items, donated by Orlando Health team members, was delivered to Harvest Time International, a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization that is active in providing relief, both emergency and long-term, to hurricane, tornado, floods, etc. in Central Florida as well as nationally and internationally.

Orlando Health team member volunteers sorted, palletized and stretch-wrapped the donated supplies in preparation for the deliveries.

Last week, a group of Orlando Health team member volunteers sorted, palletized and stretch-wrapped the donated supplies in preparation for the deliveries. The donation and preparation projects gave team members a way to participate in the relief effort.

“The effects of this disaster are far-reaching, particularly here in Central Florida and Orlando Health, where many of our residents and team members are of Haitian origin with family who have been directly impacted by the earthquake,” said Michael Howell, MD, chief medical quality officer, Orlando Regional Medical Center. “The outpouring of compassion from within Orlando Health was so great, we established drop-off points to give all of our team members a way to participate in the relief effort.”

The remaining 14 pallets, consisting of 10 pallets of medical supplies and four pallets of water, will be delivered directly to a medical facility in Haiti by an international shipping company later this week. Combined, the 24 pallets represent 337 cases of supplies.

About Orlando Health

Orlando Health Takes the Art of Parking to New Heights

1/18/2010 12:00:00 AM

Orlando, FL (January 7, 2010) – Orlando Health today took the art of parking to new heights when it unveiled its latest addition to the downtown campus; a new $27.5 million parking garage. The garage, located at Orange Avenue and Columbia Street, is adorned with a total of 16 palm tree murals ranging in height from 32’ to 61’ tall. The palm trees replicate original artwork created by nationally known local artist, Maria Reyes-Jones. The unveiling of the new, scenic garage further advances Orlando Health’s recently announced plans to renovate and expand its downtown campus.

“This new garage represents more than just a place to park cars,” said John Hillenmeyer, president & CEO of Orlando Health. “It symbolizes a new chapter in Orlando Health’s beautification and redevelopment efforts, as well as those of our neighbors who live, work and play in the area south of downtown Orlando, which is often referred to as SODO. The addition of the vibrant artwork highlights our commitment to do all we can to assist and encourage further community improvements.”

“The City of Orlando is working diligently to assist residents and businesses located south of downtown Orlando in enhancing the community,” said Phil Diamond, Orlando City Commissioner for District 1, which borders on SODO. “We are pleased that Orlando Health is involved in the process and has committed to investing resources to assist in this effort.”

In December 2009, Orlando Health announced plans to expand and renovate Orlando Regional Medical Center (ORMC). The ORMC expansion will be one of the largest expansion efforts in the history of Orlando Health with anticipated construction ranging between $125 and $150 million. The organization is expected to select anarchitectural firm to provide architectural and engineering design services for the project by the end of this month with the design process commencing in February.

The main goal of the expansion and renovation effort is toconsolidate clinical services at ORMC and lay the foundation for futuredevelopment surrounding the hospital such as the proposed SunRail commutertrain stop. The rail stop will belocated on the west side of the campus on Sligh Boulevard at the existing Amtrakstation.

The unveiling of the new parking garage comes on the heals of several Orlando Health downtown campus enhancements including a $10 million parking garage that opened in the spring of 2008 at the corner of LucerneTerrace and Copeland Street, a new $500,000 MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando Breast Cancer Survivorship Clinic that opened in March 2009, and an addition of 10,000 square feet of renovated office space in August 2009 at a cost of $1.7 million to manage MD Anderson – Orlando’s growing patient volume. A new $39 million medical office building, currently under construction adjacent to the new garage, is expected to open in October 2010.

The new nine-level parking garage boasts a total parking capacity of 2,246 spaces and contains six gearless traction elevators, three stair towers, a mechanical/electrical service yard with a 500KW emergency generator and offices for Orlando Health parking services team members.

Approximately 250,000 man-hours (with no loss-time accidents) were required to build the garage, which includes 1.32 miles of storm/sewer/water piping; 1,300 lighting fixtures, and more than 52 miles of wiring pulled through conduits.

The parking deck footprint is equivalent to two football fields. Its total gross square footage is equal to 18 football fields. A sidewalk, created from the 5,700 cubic yards of cast-in-place concrete for the project, would be six feet wide, six inches thick and extend nearly 10 miles. The 16 graphic art banners constitute 15,360 square feet, or about 1/3 of an acre.

Contractors on the project were Jack Jennings & Sons, design/builder; Finfrock Design, architectural and structural engineer of record; Baker Barrios Architects, architectural facade designer, IngenuityEngineers, mechanical and electrical engineers; GAI Consultants, civil engineering; Glatting Jackson, landscape architect; Finfrock Industries, precast contractor; and Sundance Architectural Products, LLC, exterior aluminum architectural elements and art banner contractor.

About Orlando Health

Orlando Health is a $1.5 billion not-for-profit health careorganization and a community-based network of hospitals and care centers in theOrlando region. The organization, which includes the area’s only Level One Trauma Centers for adults and pediatrics, is a statutory teaching hospital system that offers both specialty and community hospitals. They are: Orlando Regional Medical Center; Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children; Winnie Palmer Hospital for Women & Babies; Dr. P.Phillips Hospital; South Seminole Hospital; South Lake Hospital (50 percent partnership); St. Cloud Regional Medical Center (20 percent partnership) and MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando – the first affiliate of one of the nation’s premier cancer centers The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando in Houston. Orlando Health’s areas of clinical excellenceare heart and vascular, cancer care, neurosciences, surgery, pediatric orthopedics and sports medicine, neonatology, and obstetrics and gynecology.

Orlando Health recognized for technology innovation for more efficient sepsis diagnosis

11/24/2009 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, Fla. (November 24, 2009) — Orlando Health was recently awarded the Eclipsys Circle of Excellence Award for its technology innovation to improve patient health status and enable faster time to treatment for patients with sepsis. Eclipsys, a leading provider of advanced integrated clinical, revenue cycle and business process improvement software, clinical content and professional services, presents the award annually to healthcare organizations that demonstrate innovation and achievements.

Among a select group of six healthcare organizations to receive the award, Orlando Health was recognized for process improvement for its efforts in earlier identification of patients with sepsis, to meet an internal goal to decrease the relative risk of mortality by 25 percent. Sepsis, an infection-induced organ failure condition, is the 10th leading cause of death in the United States. Severe sepsis is associated with a 20 percent to 50 percent mortality rate among patients and represents an annual cost of nearly $17 billion.

Orlando Health used Eclipsys’ computerized physician order entry solution, Sunrise Acute Care™, to develop sepsis-related order sets, a nursing documentation tool and an emergency department structured note to identify and initiate treatment of Septic patients within one hour.

“Developing ways to more efficiently and effectively diagnose sepsis is a part of our ongoing commitment to using technology and clinical expertise to deliver quality care to patients,” said Debbie Sherwin, BSN, MSMIS, RN-BC, manager, Clinical Informatics. “In taking the project to the next level, we are in the process of developing a module to alert clinical staff that patients meet the criteria for sepsis.”

Award recipients receive a $2,000 grant for its foundation or charity of choice. Adding to its initiatives to care for patients with sepsis, Orlando Health chose the Foundation for Sepsis Research.

“We are pleased to honor Orlando Health for their outstanding efforts and innovations that have resulted in improved care delivery and patient health status,” said Diane Bradley, MD, chief quality and outcomes officer, Eclipsys. “We believe Eclipsys clients are among the best and brightest healthcare professionals who are focused on using enabling technologies to improve the quality and efficiencies of healthcare, which has taken center stage in national debate. Orlando Health is a valued client that exemplifies the higher-performing organizations in the healthcare industry diligently working to utilize enabling technologies to improve care efficiencies and patient outcomes.”

Orlando Health began the framework for improving the management, diagnosis, and treatment of patients with sepsis several years ago with initiatives led by Michael L. Cheatham, MD, director, Surgical Intensive Care Units; Edgar Jimenez, MD, director, Medical Critical Care; and Daleen Aragon Penoyer, PhD, RN, director, Advanced Practice Nursing & Research. Efforts include participation in the Prowess Study published by Eli Lilly for the use of Xigris in patients with sepsis in 2002; participation in the International Surviving Sepsis Campaign was launched by the European Society of Intensive Care Medicine, the International Sepsis Forum, and the Society of Critical Care Medicine in 2003; and the development of a hospital program in 2005.

About Orlando Health

About Eclipsys

Eclipsys is a leading provider of advanced integrated clinical, revenue cycle and business process improvement software, clinical content and professional services that help healthcare organizations improve clinical, financial and operational outcomes. For more information, see www.eclipsys.com or email info@eclipsys.com.

Orlando Health Earns a Spot on InformationWeek List of Top Technology Innovators Across America

11/18/2009 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, Fla. (November 18, 2009) — Orlando Health was recently recognized as one of InformationWeek’s 250 Top Innovators. In the annual listing of the nation’s most innovative users of business technology, Orlando Health ranked 185 overall, and 16 out of the 20 healthcare provider/delivery systems. The hospital received the top innovator designation in honor of its overall status as an industry leader in the deployment and adoption of Information Technology.

“Recognition for our efforts to pursue innovations that drive results and produce more efficient and effective outcomes is an honor,” said Rick Schooler, vice president and chief information officer, Orlando Health. “Over the past several years we’ve invested in progressive technologies as well as our Information Services team. Together, both have helped Orlando Health fulfill its mission.”

InformationWeek identifies and honors the nation's most innovative users of information technology with its annual 500 listing, now in its 21st year, and also tracks the technology, strategies, investments and administrative practices of America’s best-known companies. Top winners have included: Conway, National Semiconductor, Kimberly-Clark, Hilton Hotels and Unum. The InformationWeek 500 rankings are unique among corporate rankings as it spotlights the power of innovation in information technology, rather than simply identifying the biggest IT spenders.

“For over 20 years, the InformationWeek 500 has honored the most innovative users of business technology,” said InformationWeek Editor-in-Chief Rob Preston. “Year after year, InformationWeek 500 companies harness technology to improve efficiency, boost productivity, drive revenue, and establish a competitive advantage. We applaud this year’s winners, and the CIOs and other executives whose ingenuity and risk taking are at the center of business technology innovation.”

Additional details on the InformationWeek 500 can be found online at www.informationweek.com/iw500.

About Orlando Health

About InformationWeek Business Technology Network
www.informationweek.com

The InformationWeek Business Technology Network provides IT executives with unique analysis and tools that parallel their work flow – from the defining and framing of objectives through to the evaluation and recommendation of solutions. Anchored by InformationWeek, the multimedia powerhouse that looks across the enterprise, the network scales across the most critical technology categories with online properties like DarkReading.com (security), IntelligentEnterprise.com (application architecture), Network Computing (networking and communications) and PlugintotheCloud.com (cloud computing). The network also provides focused content for key IT targets such as CIOs, developers and SMBs with Dr. Dobb’s InformationWeek Global CIO and bMighty.com, as well as vital vertical industries with InformationWeek Financial Services, Government and Healthcare. With content at the nucleus of our information distribution strategy, IT professionals turn to our network of expert voices, research and communities to stay informed, get advice, and research technologies to make strategic business decisions.

About TechWeb
www.techweb.com/aboutus

TechWeb, the global leader in business technology media, is an innovative business focused on serving the needs of technology decision-makers and marketers worldwide. TechWeb produces the most respected and consumed media brands in the business technology market. Today, more than 13.3 million* business technology professionals actively engage in our communities created around our global face-to-face events Interop, Web 2.0, Black Hat and VoiceCon; online resources such as the InformationWeek.com, Light Reading, Intelligent Enterprise, bMighty.com, and Advanced Trading; and the market leading, award-winning InformationWeek and Wall Street & Technology magazines. TechWeb also provides end-to-end services ranging from next-generation performance marketing, integrated media, market research, and analyst services.

TechWeb is a division of United Business Media, a global provider of news distribution and specialist information services with a market capitalization of more than $2.5 billion.

*13.3 million business decision-makers: based on # of monthly connections across TechWeb brands.

MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando Hosts 2nd Annual Research Symposium, First at Lake Nona Medical City

11/5/2009 12:00:00 AM

Orlando, FL - October 28, 2009 - Top cancer researchers and hundreds of physicians and clinicians from around the country converged on Lake Nona Medical City for the MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando Research Symposium. This second annual MD Anderson - Orlando event, and the first conference of its kind at Medical City, focused on the work by cancer researchers here in Central Florida and nationally as well as collaborative projects taking place among Medical City partners. MD Anderson - Orlando's Cancer Research Institute recently opened its doors at Medical City and is housed in the University of Central Florida's (UCF) Burnett School of Biomedical Sciences building.

The symposium welcomed researchers from top cancer institutes. Presenters included experts from MD Anderson - Orlando, the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando in Houston, The Burnham Institute for Medical Research, UCF College of Medicine, UCF Burnett School of Biomedical Sciences, UCF Nanoscience Technology Center, and H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center in Tampa.

"We are excited to bring this caliber of work to Medical City and to Central Florida," said Clarence Brown, MD, President and CEO of MD Anderson – Orlando. "This is a phenomenal opportunity for medical researchers in our area to showcase their accomplishments and to provide a location where cancer experts from around the country can converge to learn more about the latest developments to fight this disease."

Among the latest developments and advancements in cancer research discussed include novel targeted therapies and the study of a DNA repair protein identified in breast cancer that may be responsible for drug resistance and metastasis, a new clinical trial for pancreatic cancer that involves Tolfenamic Acid, and the use of nanoparticles as radioprotectants.

MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando, part of Orlando Health, is affiliated with The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando in Houston. U.S. News & World Report recently ranked MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando as the top cancer treatment center in the U.S. and has ranked it as one of the top two cancer centers for the past 13 years. Orlando Health, a 1,780-bed community-owned, Florida not-for-profit organization established in 1918, annually serves nearly 2 million Central Florida residents and more than 4,500 international patients. More information is available at www.mdandersonorlando.org.

Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children Takes World-Wide Lead in Pediatric CT Capabilities

10/28/2009 12:00:00 AM

Orlando, FL (October 28, 2009) – Today, Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children becomes the first dedicated pediatric hospital in the world to install a new Siemens CT scanner. Siemens Healthcare’s SOMATOM® Definition Flash features the lowest radiation dose and the fastest scan speed on the market, two characteristics that make it ideal for pediatric patients.

The dual-source computed tomography (CT) scanner requires only a fraction of the radiation dose that systems previously required to scan even the tiniest anatomical details. The low dose feature is vital to children since the younger the patient, the greater the impact radiation can have.

With the Definition Flash scanner, images are acquired in the blink of an eye making breath holds for children optional and eliminating the need for most patients to be sedated.

“We are extremely pleased to be the first dedicated pediatric hospital in the world to provide this new technology,” said John Bozard, president, Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children. “For our young patients, the SOMATOM Definition Flash scanner means faster images, reduced radiation exposure, and significantly lessens the need for contrast dye injections.”

Decreased radiation exposure with the new scanner is made possible by a special application that selectively reduces the radiation exposure to dose-sensitive anatomical regions, such as thyroid, gonads, and breast region, by as much as 40 percent. An adaptive dose shield blocks irrelevant radiation, thus ensuring that only a clinically essential radiation exposure occurs. This enables an additional 25 percent reduction of the dose required for routine examinations.

As children and babies are at a great risk to radiation exposure, the ALARA (As Low As Reasonably Achievable) principle is, in particular, a more sensitive issue when concerning younger patients and CT scans.

“Siemens is the leader in pediatric CT imaging, not only in highest image quality, but most importantly, in patient safety and comfort that creates peace of mind in the community,” said Kulin Hemani, vice president, Computed Tomography, Siemens Healthcare. “The speed of the SOMATOM Definition Flash, combined with the lowest deliverable dose, ensures that pediatric patients receive the best care and in the fastest scan time.”

Owing to its high scanning speed, the SOMATOM Definition Flash also features new possibilities for performing CT examinations of the heart. This represents up to a much lower radiation dose than is obtainable with conventional systems. For the first time ever, the heart can be examined at a radiation exposure level that is three times lower than the background radiation a person naturally absorbs in a year. The SOMATOM Definition Flash is the only CT scanner on the market that enables the use of noninvasive cardiological diagnostic techniques with routine applications at the lowest possible radiation exposure levels routinely below 1 mSv.

Siemens Healthcare Sector
The Siemens Healthcare Sector is one of the world's largest suppliers to the healthcare industry and a trendsetter in medical imaging, laboratory diagnostics, medical information technology and hearing aids. Siemens is the only company to offer customers products and solutions for the entire range of patient care from a single source – from prevention and early detection to diagnosis, and on to treatment and aftercare. By optimizing clinical workflows for the most common diseases, Siemens also makes healthcare faster, better and more cost-effective. Siemens Healthcare employs some 49,000 employees worldwide and operates in over 130 countries. In fiscal year 2008 (to September 30), the Sector posted revenue of 11.2 billion euros and profit of 1.2 billion euros. For further information please visit: www.siemens.com/healthcare.

ORMC’s Air Care Team soars to impressive 25–year mark as new communications center opens

10/23/2009 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, Fla. (October 23, 2009) — Often referred to as heroes and angels by patients, the critical care helicopter transport team at the Orlando Regional Medical Center Level One Trauma Center is officially known as the Air Care Team. Whichever name they go by, the team has responded to community needs for more than two decades. October marks the Air Care Team’s 25th anniversary and the installation of a new communications center to continue managing rescue calls, which is the starting point of the team’s life saving efforts.

“From the beginning we have been committed to delivering high-level care to patients in the field – the critical start of the golden hour,” said Beth Rudloff, chief nursing officer, ORMC. “Throughout our 25 years we have expanded to three helicopters and our new communications center is another step to ensure we meet the critical health care needs of our growing communities.”

Inside the new communications center the Air Care Team’s communications specialists have state-of-the-art tools to perform the critical role of dispatching calls and sharing and receiving information from the medical crew and Level One trauma center. The additional space will allow for increased staffing to meet the community’s growing needs for trauma care.

“The new communications center also means greater safety measures,” said Nathan Allsop, communication center supervisor. “Aircrafts are tracked by a new satellite tracking and monitoring system and a window-view provides inbound and outbound air traffic visibility. Awareness and efficiency is key to effectively managing calls and communicating with the Air Care Team and the other 10 air ambulance programs we work with on any given day, along with the clinicians in our trauma center.”

The communications center manages an average of 260 requests for service and an average of 480 emergency transfer requests calls per month. The Air Cares Team’s communications specialists have undergone specialized training in air ambulance communications and are certified by the National Association of Air-medical Communication Specialists.

Once calls are received, the communications specialists efficiently relay the information to the on-board team comprised of a flight nurse, a flight paramedic and a pilot. The Air Care Team’s 24-member medical crew is one of the highest credentialed flight crew in the state.

“Working together, we bring the services of ORMC’s Level One Trauma Center and cardiac services to remote locations so that we can begin treatment on the scene,” said Mikel Dirks, chief flight paramedic, Air Care Team.

The only hospital-based multiple aircraft flight program in the area, the Air Care Team uses three helicopters based in three counties – Lake, Osceola and Seminole. Air Care Team’s service area encompasses a 100-mile radius that covers 15 counties including Orange, Brevard, Citrus, Lake, Marion, Osceola, Polk, Seminole and Volusia. In its 25 years of service the Air Care Team has treated more than 23,000 patients and flown over 1.4 million miles. The crew’s primary scene response calls are for motor vehicle incidents. Other calls include electrical injuries, falls and hospital to hospital transports for acute cardiac and stroke care, and other specialized services provided by Orlando Regional Medical Center.

Omniflight Helicopters Inc., which has been providing helicopter transportation services for 47 years, provides the pilots, mechanics and aviation services to ORMC’s Air Care Team and has worked with ORMC since the program began. Omniflight is a leading provider of air medical services throughout the United States. The company operates over 100 aircraft nationally from 72 bases in 18 states, with a strong presence across the Southeast in Alabama, Georgia, Florida and the Carolinas.

"Omniflight is very proud to have been in partnership with ORMC for the past 25 years,” said Brian Burrell Regional Manager for Omniflight in the Southeast. “Together with ORMC our commitment to the citizens of Central Florida is stronger than ever and we look for many more years of providing safe air operations and life saving transports to those that need it most."

In addition to helping save lives after critical injuries occur, the Air Care Team also spends valuable time in the community increasing trauma awareness and participating in prevention initiatives – safety fairs, mock scenarios with area schools and lecture series.

About Orlando Health

MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando Opens New Research Facility at Lake Nona Medical City - Just In Time for 2nd Annual Cancer Research Symposium

10/20/2009 12:00:00 AM

Orlando, FL – October 20, 2009 – With breast cancer awareness month in full swing, MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando is focusing renewed attention on the importance of cancer research to battle all types of cancer including breast cancer. MD Anderson – Orlando’s Cancer Research Institute has opened its doors of its new research facility in the University of Central Florida’s (UCF) Burnett School of Biomedical Sciences building, officially becoming a part of Lake Nona Medical City.

The MD Anderson - Orlando Cancer Research Institute, which was previously housed on the Orlando Health campus in downtown Orlando, is now based on the 5th floor of the Biomedical Sciences building. This 30,000 square foot facility will triple the Cancer Research Institute’s wet lab space and provide thousands of additional square feet of work space. The Cancer Research Institute is currently conducting extensive research on treatments for many types of cancer including the development of a new treatment drug that has shown promising results for battling pancreatic cancer and the development of an over-the-counter prostate cancer diagnostic test with UCF researchers.

The presence of MD Anderson’s Cancer Research Institute on the Medical City campus will provide additional opportunities for collaboration with UCF and The Burnham Institute for Medical Research.

On October 28, MD Anderson – Orlando will kick off its 2nd annual Cancer Research Symposium, the first at the Lake Nona Medical City campus.
The two-day symposium will bring together researchers from MD Anderson – Orlando, the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando in Houston, The Burnham Institute for Medical Research, as well as researchers from UCF College of Medicine, UCF Burnett School of Biomedical Sciences, UCF Nanoscience Technology Center, and H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center in Tampa. Among the latest developments and advancements in cancer research that will be discussed include novel targeted therapies and the study of a DNA repair protein identified in breast cancer that may be responsible for drug resistance and metastasis, a new clinical trial for pancreatic cancer, and the use of nanoparticles as radioprotectants.

MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando, part of Orlando Health, is affiliated with The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando in Houston. U.S. News & World Report recently ranked MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando as the top cancer treatment center in the U.S. and has ranked it as one of the top two cancer centers for the past 13 years. Orlando Health, a 1,780-bed community-owned, Florida not-for-profit organization established in 1918, annually serves nearly 2 million Central Florida residents and more than 4,500 international patients. More information is available at www.mdandersonorlando.org.

MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando Kicks off “Pink October” with Annual Hope Hike from City Hall

10/8/2009 12:00:00 AM

“Pink October” is officially here! MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando kicked off “Pink October”, a month dedicated to raising awareness for breast cancer, with its annual Hope Hike from City Hall. The hike, which began on the steps of City Hall and continued down Orange Avenue to MD Anderson – Orlando’s cancer treatment facility on the Orlando Health campus, brought together community members, government leaders, oncologists, and breast cancer patients, survivors and their families in solidarity in the fight against breast cancer.

Orange County Mayor Richard Crotty and Commissioner Robert Stuart were present at the kickoff of the Hope Hike, issuing proclamations declaring October as “Pink October.” MD Anderson – Orlando breast cancer oncologist Nikita Shah, MD provided a medical update on the fight against breast cancer and the work going on at MD Anderson – Orlando to diagnose and treat breast cancer patients in Central Florida. A breast cancer survivor also shared her personal experience battling the disease.

“MD Anderson – Orlando’s ‘Pink October’ is a chance to recognize those who have successfully fought and those who are currently fighting this disease, but also an opportunity for us to remind everyone that with early diagnosis and current treatments more women are surviving breast cancer and going on to live very full lives,” said Clarence Brown III, MD, President and CEO of MD Anderson – Orlando. “In order to continue to save lives we must focus on raising awareness and spreading the word about this disease. That is what ‘Pink October’ is all about.”

Breast cancer is the second most common type of cancer among women in the United States. Every three minutes a new case of breast cancer is diagnosed and every 13 minutes a woman dies from breast cancer. Yet this type of cancer is being diagnosed earlier and earlier and as a result fewer women are dying of this disease each year. In 2009, it is estimated that 180,000 women will be diagnosed with breast cancer, which is down 20,000 cases over the last few years.

ORMC medical critical care director elected president of international critical care organization

10/7/2009 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, Fla. (September 29, 2009) — Orlando Regional Medical Center (ORMC) is pleased to announce Edgar Jimenez, MD, director of Medical Critical Care at Orlando Regional Medical Center, has been elected to a four-year term as president of the World Federation of Societies of Intensive and Critical Care Medicine. He was elected at the 10th World Congress in Florence, Italy. His term begins immediately and will continue until 2013.

With a membership of more than 136,000, the World Federation is comprised of the Critical Care Societies of 56 countries, with a Council that includes the United States, Belgium, Brazil, Canada, Chile, China, France, Germany, India, Italy, Mexico, Saudi Arabia, South Africa, South Korea and Spain.

“Traditionally the World Federation has been a scientific forum,” said Dr. Jimenez. “Now we are also taking a very active role in developing and supporting critical care in some areas of the world that need it the most, such as Asia, the Middle East and Africa, by coordinating the efforts and resources of the largest societies in the federation. I plan to continue this focus during my tenure.”

In addition, the organization will begin important, immediate strategies to coordinate the efforts to mitigate the H1N1 pandemic, including guidelines for treatment and research initiatives, in collaboration with the World Health Organization.

Dr. Jimenez is a member of the United States Society of Critical Care Medicine (SCCM) and their representative to the World Federation. He was past-chair of the SCCM’s Fundamental Critical Care Support Steering Committee and of its Education and Training Steering Committee. He co-developed their Fundamental Disaster Management course that focuses on the communication, decontamination procedures and dynamic case management during a mass casualty crisis.

Dr. Jimenez joined ORMC in 2004. His 25-year career includes various positions in organizations throughout the United States and abroad: director, ICU, Corpus Christi Medical Center, Corpus Christi, Texas; medical director, U.S. Embassy, Costa Rica; and medical director, National Red Cross, Costa Rica. He received a doctorate of medicine and surgery from the University of Costa Rica School of Medicine. Dr. Jimenez completed an internal medicine and pediatrics residency at Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons, and a critical care fellowship at St. John’s Mercy Medical Center and St. Louis University Hospital.

About Orlando Health

Former *NSYNCer Joey Fatone hosts kid karaoke contest at Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children

9/25/2009 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, FL (September 24, 2009) - A dozen pint-sized singers took to the stage at Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children on Thursday, September 24 for a karaoke contest hosted by former *NSYNC singing sensation, Joey Fatone. Other judges included members of Nigels 11, a new band created by former *NSYNCer Chris Kirkpatrick, and local radio favorite, Jayde from XL 106.7.

The event was part of the 20 Days of Caring special event series being held during the month of September to commemorate the hospital's 20th birthday.

"The kid karaoke contest is a fun way for children to show their appreciation to Joey and his family for all they have done to help the hospital," said John Bozard, president of the Arnold Palmer Medical Center. "It also gives all participants an opportunity to help us celebrate this festive occasion in a language we all understand; music."

Immediately prior to the karaoke contest, members of the Fatone Family Foundation presented the Arnold Palmer Medical Center Foundation with a check for $325,000 to support the hospital's new music therapy program. The new program is dedicated to using music and music therapy to assist in the treatment of pediatric oncology and hematology patients. Over time, the program will be expanded throughout the entire hospital.

According to the American Cancer Society, research has found that music therapy, used along with anti-nausea drugs for patients receiving high-dose chemotherapy, can help ease nausea and vomiting; can help reduce short term pain and help decrease the overall intensity of the patient's experience of pain; and can reduce heart rate, blood pressure, breathing rate, insomnia, depression, and anxiety.

While the physical benefits of music therapy can be measured over time, the emotional and psychological benefits in patients can be seen immediately. In one study, patients who were visited by a trained music therapist reported less anxiety and better overall mood than patients who did not receive music therapy.

Ten year old Jasmine Forsberg won the karaoke contest and will perform in front of what is expected to be a crowd of thousands attending the 20 Years of Caring Block Party Saturday, September 26 on the Arnold Palmer Medical Center campus.

The block party is the culmination of hundreds of special offers, events and activities being held during September as part of the 20 Days of Caring. Other activities include retail and dining offers that result in a donation to the hospital, lectures by and about golfing legends, clinics that teach parents how to keep kids safe and healthy, and special appearances by representatives from Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children and Winnie Palmer Hospital for Women & Babies. A complete list of activities is available at www.arnoldpalmerhospitalbirthday.com/ClientResources/20DaysCaring.

About Winnie Palmer Hospital for Women & Babies
Winnie Palmer Hospital for Women & Babies, supported by the Arnold Palmer Medical Center Foundation, is a 285-bed facility dedicated exclusively to the needs of women and babies. The hospital includes comprehensive fetal diagnostics and labor and delivery services, a regional center for neonatal intensive care, maternal intensive care and women's services. Annually, more than 14,000 babies are expected to be born at Winnie Palmer Hospital, making it the busiest labor and delivery unit in the state of Florida. To learn more, visit www.winniepalmerhospital.com.

Orlando Health Orthopedic Faculty Practice adds new specialty surgeon

9/24/2009 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, Fla. (September 24, 2009) — The Orlando Health Orthopedic Faculty Practice recently added George J. Haidukewych, MD, an orthopedic surgeon to the team. Dr. Haidukewych specializes in orthopedic traumatology and adult reconstructive orthopedics, and joins the practice as co-director of Orthopedic Trauma, chief of Complex Adult Reconstruction and program director of the Orthopedic Residency Program.

Internationally recognized for trauma and joint replacement surgery, Dr. Haidukewych has previously served as co-director of the Adult Reconstructive Fellowship and member of the Orthopaedic Trauma Service at the Florida Orthopaedic Institute in Tampa; and chief of Orthopedic Trauma at the Mayo Clinic in Rochester.

Dr. Haidukewych graduated from Wayne State University School of Medicine. He completed his orthopedic residency at Mayo Graduate School of Medicine, and his fellowship training in orthopedic traumatology and post traumatic reconstruction at the Florida Orthopaedic Institute.

A noted researcher, Dr. Haidukewych, has published more than 80 peer-reviewed publications and book chapters, and has presented numerous educational lectures on topics including trauma and hip and knee replacement. He currently holds several patents and has developed multiple innovative implants for fracture fixation and joint replacement.

In continuing his academic career, Dr. Haidukewych will teach medical students, residents and fellows and serve as a professor of Orthopedic Surgery at the University of Central Florida College of Medicine.

About Orlando Health

Orlando Health Vascular and Endovascular Practice adds specialists, expands services to community hospitals

9/22/2009 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, Fla. (September 22, 2009) — The Orlando Health Vascular and Endovascular Practice has added two new doctors to expand services to its downtown campus and community hospitals. Vascular surgeons Patrick Austin, MD, and Raj Patel, MD, will provide vascular and endovascular procedures at Orlando Regional Medical Center (ORMC), Dr. P. Phillips Hospital and South Seminole Hospital. They join Dr. Mark Friedell, a practicing vascular surgeon at ORMC for over 20 years and program director of Orlando Health’s General Surgery Residency. In addition to treating patients, Drs. Austin and Patel will teach general surgery residents.

Dr. Austin received his medical degree from the University of Alabama School of Medicine where he also completed his general surgery residency. His vascular surgery fellowship was completed at the University of South Florida. He has presented research at state and national conferences on various topics including aortic dissections and lower extremity arterial disease.

Dr. Patel received his medical degree from Temple University. He completed his general surgery residency at the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center; a postdoctoral fellowship in the Department of Biomedical Engineering at Cleveland Clinic Foundation; and a vascular and endovascular surgery fellowship at Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School in Boston. He has a strong background in science and clinical research, has been published in the Journal of Vascular Surgery, and has presented at regional and national conferences.

Dr. Friedell received his medical degree from the University of Bologna in Italy. He completed his surgical residency at the University of Massachusetts Medical School and a vascular fellowship at Newark Beth Israel Medical Center. As a national and international lecturer, Dr. Friedell has spoken about various topics including deep vein thrombosis, carotid endarterectomy and vascular trauma. He has been published in several medical journals such as the Journal of Vascular Surgery, the Annals of Vascular Surgery and The American Surgeon covering a range of subjects including lower extremity venous disease, carotid endarterectomy and carotid angioplasty and stenting. Board certified in surgery and general vascular surgery, Dr. Friedell is a member of the Society of Vascular Surgery, the Southern Association of Vascular Surgery, the Association of Program Directors in Surgery and is a Fellow of the American College of Surgeons.

About Orlando Health

Arnold Palmer Hospital Pediatric Specialists Open Satellite Office in Seminole County

9/2/2009 12:00:00 AM

Orlando, FL (August 19, 2009) - Children in the Sanford/Lake Mary area of Seminole County can now see pediatric specialists from Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children's Pediatric Specialty Practice close to home. The specialists are now available Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. at 1481 WP Ball Boulevard at the corner of 417 and Rinehart Road near the Marketplace at Seminole Town Center. This satellite office is located in the After Hours Pediatric Urgent Care Center office prior to it opening for urgent care services.

The following specialty services will be available by appointment: endocrinology, gastroenterology, pulmonology, orthopedics, nephrology, rheumatology, hematology/oncology and craniomaxillofacial. To make an appointment please call:

Craniomaxillofacial Surgery	407.839.8407
Endocrinology	321.841.3303
Gastroenterology	321.841.3338
Hematology/Oncology	321.841.8588
Nephrology	321.841.7970
Orthopedics	321.841.3040
Pulmonology	321.841.6350
Rheumatology	352.392.2961

Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children, supported by the Arnold Palmer Medical Center Foundation, is a 158-bed facility dedicated exclusively to the needs of children. Located in Orlando, Arnold Palmer Hospital provides expertise in pediatric specialties such as cardiac care, craniomaxillofacial surgery, emergency and trauma care, gastroenterology, nephrology, neurology, neurosurgery, oncology, orthopedics, pulmonology and sports medicine. Visit arnoldpalmerhospital.com to learn more about all of our specialties.

Arnold Palmer Hospital Celebrates 20 Years of Caring

9/2/2009 12:00:00 AM

August 31, 2009 (Orlando, FL) -- Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children will celebrate its 20^th birthday on September 10, coinciding with its legendary namesake, Arnold Palmer’s 80^th birthday. For the past 20 years Arnold Palmer Hospital has been providing advanced, highly specialized medical care to children and women from across Central Florida and the world. To commemorate this milestone birthday, several celebration events are planned throughout the month of September including a community leader breakfast hosted by the Orlando Regional Chamber of Commerce and hospital visit by Arnold Palmer (September 4), a VIP 80^th Birthday dinner for Arnold Palmer hosted by Loews Portofino Bay Hotel at Universal Studios Orlando® (September 5) and a community block party (September 26). For more information, log on to www.arnoldpalmerhospital.com/birthday.

“We are honored to be celebrating 20 years of caring along side Arnold Palmer as he celebrates his 80^th birthday. We are extremely appreciative of all he and his family have done for the babies, children and women here in Central Florida and beyond,” said John Bozard, president, Arnold Palmer Medical Center. “Through his generosity and those of others thousands of lives have been touched over the past 20 years and we look forward to continuing the Palmer legacy of caring for many years to come.”

Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children opened its doors on September 10, 1989, as Central Florida’s first freestanding children and women’s hospital. The 281-bed facility offered pediatric, obstetric and women’s services all in one facility and was built to accommodate 6,500 births. Over the past 20 years, the hospital’s staff has delivered 179,000 babies, cared for 296,000 inpatients and 840,000 outpatients. It also saw the birth of a new facility, Winnie Palmer Hospital for Women & Babies, named after Mr. Palmer’s late wife Winnie. The 285-bed facility opened on May 30, 2006, expanding the hospital’s obstetric, neonatal and gynecological services. With the opening of Winnie Palmer Hospital, Arnold Palmer Hospital became a dedicated, 158-bed children’s hospital and the two facilities in addition to the Howard Phillips Center for Children & Families formed the Arnold Palmer Medical Center, which is one of the largest children and women’s facilities in the nation.

Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children, supported by the Arnold Palmer Medical Center Foundation, is a 158-bed facility dedicated exclusively to the needs of children. Located in Orlando, Arnold Palmer Hospital provides expertise in pediatric specialties such as cardiac care, craniomaxillofacial surgery, emergency and trauma care, gastroenterology, nephrology, neurology, neurosurgery, oncology, orthopedics, pulmonology and sports medicine. Visit arnoldpalmerhospital.com to learn more about all of our specialties.

Joey Fatone to host kid karaoke contest at Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children

9/2/2009 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, FL (September 2, 2009) -- So you think you can sing? Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children invites Orlando-area kids to show their singing talent for a chance to perform for Joey Fatone at a kid karaoke contest. Children under the age of 13 are asked to send Internet links of their singing performances to 20days@orlandohealth.com by September 18.

A panel of judges from the Arnold Palmer Medical Center Foundation will review the performances and select up to 15 finalists, ensuring that the various age ranges - from toddlers to teens - are represented. The finalists will have the opportunity to perform for former NSYNC singing sensation Joey Fatone at a kid’s karaoke contest Thursday, September 24 at the hospital. The event is part of the 20 Days of Caring special event series being held during the month of September to commemorate the hospital’s 20th birthday.

“Joey Fatone and his family have been tremendous supporters of the hospital in numerous ways,” said John Bozard, president of the Arnold Palmer Medical Center. “This kid karaoke contest is a fun way for children to show their appreciation to Joey for all that he has done to help the hospital and allow him to interact with area children during this festive occasion.”

The new music therapy program at Arnold Palmer Hospital is one example of the Fatones’ support. Joey Fatone and his family hosted a series of events to raise funds to develop the program, which is dedicated to using music and music therapy to assist in the treatment of pediatric oncology and hematology patients.

One finalist from the kid karaoke contest will be selected to perform in front of what is expected to be a crowd of thousands attending the 20 Years of Caring Block Party Saturday, September 26 on the Arnold Palmer Medical Center campus.

The block party is the culmination of hundreds of special offers, events and activities being held during September as part of the 20 Days of Caring. Other activities include retail and dining offers that result in a donation to the hospital, lectures by and about golfing legends, clinics that teach parents how to keep kids safe and healthy, and special appearances by representatives from Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children and Winnie Palmer Hospital for Women & Babies. A complete list of activities is available at http://www.arnoldpalmerhospitalbirthday.com/ClientResources/20DaysCaring.

About Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children
Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children, supported by the Arnold Palmer Medical Center Foundation, is a 158-bed facility dedicated exclusively to the needs of children. Located in Orlando, Arnold Palmer Hospital provides expertise in pediatric specialties such as cardiac care, craniomaxillofacial surgery, emergency and trauma care, gastroenterology, nephrology, neurology, oncology, orthopedics, pulmonology and sports medicine. Visit www.arnoldpalmerhospital.com to learn more about all of our specialties.

About Winnie Palmer Hospital for Women & Babies
Winnie Palmer Hospital for Women & Babies, supported by the Arnold Palmer Medical Center Foundation, is a 285-bed facility dedicated exclusively to the needs of women and babies. The hospital includes comprehensive fetal diagnostics and labor and delivery services, a regional center for neonatal intensive care, maternal intensive care and women’s services. Annually, more than 14,000 babies are expected to be born at Winnie Palmer Hospital, making it the busiest labor and delivery unit in the state of Florida. To learn more, visit www.winniepalmerhospital.com.

Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children Announces Gift Registry Honoring its Namesakes’ 80th Birthday

8/17/2009 12:00:00 AM

Orlando, FL (August 14, 2009) – Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children turns 20 on September 10, 2009, the same day its legendary namesake, golfer Arnold Palmer celebrates his 80th birthday. In honor of Mr. Palmer’s birthday, a gift registry has been created where family, friends and fans can make a donation in his name to help the children, women and babies cared for at Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children and Winnie Palmer Hospital for Women & Babies. Individuals wishing to make a contribution can log on to http://www.arnoldpalmerhospitalbirthday.com/GiftRegistry.

“We are proud to be celebrating 20 years of caring along side Arnold Palmer as he celebrates his 80th birthday. We are extremely appreciative of all he and his family have done for the babies, children, and women here in Central Florida,” said John Bozard, president, Arnold Palmer Medical Center. “Through their generosity and that of our community through programs like the birthday gift registry, we have been able to provide highly-specialized care to those in need and we look forward to continuing the Palmer legacy of caring for many years to come.”

Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children & Women opened its doors on September 10, 1989, coinciding with its namesake’s, Arnold Palmer’s, 60th birthday. The 281-bed hospital was the first freestanding children and women’s hospital in Central Florida offering pediatric, obstetric and women’s services in one facility. Due to the area’s rapid population growth and increased demand for obstetrical services, Arnold Palmer Hospital expanded its obstetric, neonatal and gynecological services with the addition of Winnie Palmer Hospital for Women & Babies, a 285-bed facility, located across the street. With the opening of Winnie Palmer Hospital, Arnold Palmer Hospital became a dedicated, 158-bed children’s hospital and the two facilities in addition to the Howard Phillips Center for Children & Families formed the Arnold Palmer Medical Center.

ARNOLD PALMER HOSPITAL for CHILDREN
Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children, supported by the Arnold Palmer Medical Center Foundation, is a 158-bed facility dedicated exclusively to the needs of children. Located in Orlando, Arnold Palmer Hospital provides expertise in pediatric specialties such as cardiac care, craniomaxillofacial surgery, emergency and trauma care, gastroenterology, nephrology, neurology, neurosurgery, oncology, orthopedics, pulmonology and sports medicine. Visit arnoldpalmerhospital.com to learn more about all of our specialties.

WINNIE PALMER HOSPITAL for WOMEN & BABIES
Winnie Palmer Hospital for Women & Babies, supported by the Arnold Palmer Medical Center Foundation, is a 285-bed facility dedicated exclusively to the needs of women and babies. The hospital includes comprehensive fetal diagnostics and labor and delivery services, a regional center for neonatal intensive care, maternal intensive care and women’s services. Annually, more than 14,000 babies are expected to be born at Winnie Palmer Hospital, making it the busiest labor and delivery unit in the state of Florida. To learn more, visit www.winniepalmerhospital.com.

Orlando Health Rehabilitation Institute earns distinguished accreditation

8/13/2009 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, Fla. (August 13, 2009) --- The Orlando Health Rehabilitation Institute recently received a three-year accreditation from the Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities (CARF) for each of its 13 programs, including specialty inpatient rehabilitation and outpatient rehabilitation programs for children, adolescents and adults. The Rehabilitation Institute provides care for various conditions including traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord injuries and stroke.

CARF is an independent, not-for-profit organization that promotes quality rehabilitation services. CARF-accredited programs and services have demonstrated that they substantially meet internationally recognized standards and made a commitment to continually enhance the quality of its services and programs, and its focus is on consumer satisfaction.

“On a daily basis helping patients on their road to recovery brings its own rewards for our team,” said Jack Fitzpatrick, administrator of Ancillary and Rehabilitative Services. “To receive peer recognition from CARF is a tribute to and a reflection of the excellent care, support and commitment our multidisciplinary team provides to patients, their families and to each other.”

The CARF survey team recognized the Rehabilitation Institute for several strengths in patient care including relevant and well researched education materials for patients and families; dedicated private space for patients and family to access resources; creative approaches to build relationships with volunteers who share their talents and skills; and identifying needs for patients and finding solutions with limited funding, including the use of a gift registry and donations from team members.

The Rehabilitation Institute was also cited for the demonstration of its mission and values throughout operations; strong executive and physician leadership for rehabilitation services; the clinician and administrative team members’ longstanding history with the organization; its physician collaboration in development of the adolescent sports medicine program; and the organization’s position at the forefront of computerized records and accessibility for staff.

The Orlando Health Rehabilitation Institute is the only state designated Brain and Spinal Cord Injury Program (BSCIP) facility in Orlando. BSCIP designated facilities are required to maintain the highest level of expertise and experience to address the medical, rehabilitation, and physiological needs of individuals who sustain traumatic brain and spinal cord injuries. BSCIP Accreditation requirements include the Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities.

About Orlando Health

MD Anderson - Orlando patient enrolls in groundbreaking clinical trial to fight Glioblastoma

8/11/2009 12:00:00 AM

Portable CT Scanner now in use at Arnold Palmer Hospital

8/5/2009 12:00:00 AM

Orlando, FL – (August 5, 2009) – Pediatric patients at Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children will now benefit from a mobile, wireless scanner that can be rolled to the bedside or into surgery eliminating the need to move critically-ill or surgical patients to the Radiology Department.

By producing high resolution, two- and three dimensional images of the head and neck areas, the CereTom® portable CT scanner improves the diagnosis, treatment or surgical intervention of head and neck injuries. It will be used in the hospital’s Pediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU) and surgical suites.

“This technology allows us to obtain immediate, high-resolution images at the beside in the PICU or in the operating room which is revolutionalizing neurosurgery,” said Dr. Jogi Pattisapu, medical director of the Pediatric Neuroscience Program at Arnold Palmer Hospital. “It is a great advantage because we can now see real-time images of the head and neck during surgery aiding us tremendously with the placement of shunts and other devices.”

Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children, supported by the Arnold Palmer Medical Center Foundation, is a 158-bed facility dedicated exclusively to the needs of children. Located in Orlando, Arnold Palmer Hospital provides expertise in pediatric specialties such as cardiac care, craniomaxillofacial surgery, emergency and trauma care, gastroenterology, nephrology, neurology, neurosurgery, oncology, orthopedics, pulmonology and sports medicine. Visit arnoldpalmerhospital.com to learn more about all of our specialties.

Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children Set to Open Expanded Center for Children’s Cancer and Blood Disorders

6/29/2009 12:00:00 AM

Orlando, FL (June 23, 2009) – Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children will open its expanded Center for Children’s Cancer and Blood Disorders later this month, tripling the size of its outpatient unit and doubling its inpatient capacity. The five million dollar project was funded by philanthropic support.

“We’re very excited about our expanded space which enhances the healing environment for our patients,” said Mary Rogers, patient care administrator for pediatric services at Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children. “Our patients spend a great deal of time in the healthcare setting and we wanted to give them an area that would allow their complex medical needs to be met without forgetting the joy of childhood.”

The center has a serene Florida golf theme featuring mammals in the outpatient unit and water animals in the inpatient unit. The Haley Family Kid’s Place Outpatient Unit expanded from 2,594 to 10,672 square feet. It features eight private infusion bays, three long stay infusion rooms, eight physician exam rooms, two sedation rooms, a video conference room, a playroom and Child Life work area and an audiology testing booth to serve not only the pediatric cancer patients but all pediatric patients in need of hearing tests. The outpatient unit will open on June 29.

The Edward Joseph and Helen Hall Leon & Family Inpatient Unit increased from 11 to 20 beds and grew from 5,512 to 13,513 square feet. It also includes two sedation rooms, two playrooms with one being dedicated exclusively to teenagers, a dedicated sibling corner and a family gathering room. Patients will move to the new unit on July 6.

Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children, supported by the Arnold Palmer Medical Center Foundation, is a 158-bed facility dedicated exclusively to the needs of children. Located in Orlando, Arnold Palmer Hospital provides expertise in pediatric specialties such as cardiac care, craniomaxillofacial surgery, emergency and trauma care, gastroenterology, nephrology, oncology, orthopedics, pulmonology and sports medicine. Visit arnoldpalmerhospital.com to learn more about all of our specialties.

Orlando Health's 4th Annual ONE NIGHT^SM Raises Awareness and Support for Central Florida's Only Level One Trauma Center

6/16/2009 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, FL (June 16, 2009) --- Despite a challenging economy, ONE NIGHT's guest list grew for the fourth consecutive year, as the Orlando Health Foundation hosted more than 700 people during a black tie gala to raise awareness and support for Central Florida's only Level One Trauma Center. The event was held on April 19 in the Grand Court of The Mall at Millenia. In four years, ONE NIGHT has raised more than $850,000 for the Orlando Regional Medical Center (ORMC) Level One Trauma Center.

CNL Financial Group, Inc., Presenting Sponsor, stepped forward once again as a substantial community partner in promoting the mission of the Trauma Center. "In addition to significant philanthropic funding for the capital expansion of the Trauma Center, CNL provides tremendous ongoing support through advocacy and organizing tours for which we are immensely grateful," explains Cheryl Collins, vice president, Orlando Health Foundation.

Maintaining the Trauma Center's high level of life-saving care 24/7 requires tremendous resources totaling $14,000,000 each year. Due to the high cost, few hospitals provide trauma services. As the only Level One Trauma Center in Central Florida, ORMC treats the most critically injured patients from across 15 counties.

"Demand for this highest level of life-saving care has tripled over the past decade, making our region's trauma center one of the busiest in the nation," explains Jeremy Gamble, vice president, Orlando Health Foundation. "We have a critical and urgent need to expand to meet the growing needs of our community."

Orlando Health is committed to providing trauma care for our community but relies heavily on philanthropy to fulfill this mission.

"Philanthropic support for the expansion of our region's only Level One Trauma Center is as vital as the care that the trauma team provides to patients," says Jim Seneff, Chairman and CEO, CNL Financial Group, Inc. "CNL is proud to support the Trauma Center so that our work family, personal families, friends and loved ones won't have to worry whether care will be available when they need it most."

Demonstrating the highest level of life-saving care provided by the Trauma Center, this year's theme, "all for one moment…," portrayed the remarkable story of trauma survivor, Nate Winters. Nate's life was saved at the Trauma Center after a terrible boating injury caused him to lose over 75 percent of his blood - and ultimately his left leg. Within minutes of Nate's injury, the air medical team rushed him to the Trauma Center. Nearly 20 trauma professionals were ready and waiting the moment he arrived. Nate was rapidly stabilized and underwent emergency surgery for his massive orthopedic and soft tissue injuries.

Today, Nate and his family look back at their night in the Trauma Center not as the night Nate lost his leg, but the night Nate's life was saved.

ONE NIGHT^SM 2009 Sponsors:

Presenting - CNL Financial Group, Inc.
Host - The Mall at Millenia
Silent Auction - Walt Disney World Co.
Dinner - FreshPoint
Transportation Services - Omniflight Helicopters Inc.

Community Partners
ABC Fine Wine & Spirits
Blaine & Rebecca Sweatt
FFVA Mutual Insurance Co.

For more information about ORMC's Level One Trauma Center or to arrange a tour, contact Jeremy Gamble, vice president, Orlando Health Foundation at 321.841.8870 or jeremy.gamble@orlandohealth.com.

About Orlando Health
Orlando Health is a $1.5 billion not-for-profit healthcare organization and a community-based network of nine hospitals and care centers in the Orlando region. The organization, which includes the area's only Level One Trauma Centers for adults and pediatrics, is a statutory teaching hospital system that offers both specialty and community hospitals. They are: Orlando Regional Medical Center; Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children; Winnie Palmer Hospital for Women & Babies; Lucerne Hospital; Dr. P. Phillips Hospital; South Seminole Hospital; South Lake Hospital (50 percent partnership); St. Cloud Regional Medical Center (20 percent partnership) and MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando - the first affiliate of one of the nation's premier cancer centers, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando in Houston. Orlando Health's areas of clinical excellence are heart and vascular, cancer care, neurosciences, surgery, pediatric orthopedics and sports medicine, neonatology, and obstetrics and gynecology.

Orlando Health is Central Florida's fifth largest employer with nearly 14,000 employees and more than 2,000 affiliated physicians, all of whom support our philosophy of providing high quality care and service when it matters most. We prove this every day with over 100,000 inpatient admissions and more than 600,000 outpatient visits each year. In all, Orlando Health serves 1.6 million Central Florida residents and nearly 3,000 international patients annually. Additionally, Orlando Health provides approximately $198 million in support of community health needs. More information can be found at orlandohealth.com.

Orlando Health study examines technology developed by UCF

6/16/2009 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, Fla. (June 15, 2009) - A high-tech robotic arm may be the helping hand that patients with spinal cord injury (SCI) need to make their lives more independent. The medical director and rehabilitation therapists at Orlando Health Rehabilitation Institute are evaluating the technology used to operate the robotic arm in an effort to help design controls that are best suited for patients as they reach forward for a greater quality of life. The interface technology used for the robotic arm was developed by the Assistive Robotics Laboratory team at the University of Central Florida’s School of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science and NanoScience Technology Center. The robotic arm used in the study, known as the Manus ARM (Assistive Robotic Manipulator), is made by Exact Dynamics based in The Netherlands.

"The assisted robotic arm is designed to help people with certain spinal cord injuries who have limited arm function as they complete everyday living tasks like feeding themselves, pouring a drink, opening a cabinet, or picking up something they have dropped," said David Portée, MD, medical director of the Rehabilitation Institute and principal investigator for the study. "The impact of functional technology in a person's life can be far reaching beyond improved ability to perform tasks. It can increase family, social and professional participation and restore an overall level of independence that had been believed to have been lost after the spinal cord injury."

The Manus ARM, which has already received approval for use in Europe and is in the process of obtaining FDA approval for use in the United States, can be attached to the user's wheelchair or positioned near the user. The robotic arm weighs 28.6 pounds and has a reach of 31.5 inches. Its appearance is a more modern spin on the character Number 5 or Johnny Five in the '80s hit movies "Short Circuit" and "Short Circuit 2." The two types of interfaces tested are Cartesian mode and Auto mode. In Cartesian mode, users use a switch or speak commands to first move the robot arm (front, back, left, right, up, and down) and then appropriately orient the hand of the robot (yaw left, yaw right, pitch up, pitch down, roll clockwise, and roll counterclockwise) in order to grasp a desired object. In Auto mode, users simply select an object of interest on a computerized screen and the robotic arm uses a pair of video cameras and touch and grip sensing to automatically guide itself and grasp the object in a single process.

"Using robotic arms for assistance in completing tasks is not experimental," explains Dr. Portée. "However, the controls used for the robotic arm are still being developed and changed to improve the function. We are working to explore and understand which candidates may benefit the most from this technology. We also want to determine which of the two interfaces being used in this study allows patients with spinal cord injuries to manipulate the robotic arm most effectively and efficiently for more independent function with daily living activities."

Over the years, many assistive robotic arms have been developed, though some are cumbersome or limited in adaptability to a user's specific needs. For example, controls may be limited to a joy stick, key pad or sip and puff mechanisms, or the interfaces may require numerous or complicated steps to move the robotic arm.

“In our preliminary testing of commercially available systems, we found that users were frustrated by the unnatural motion control interface for commanding the robot. Our goal in designing the automated system was to reduce the cognitive load for the users and to reduce the time to task completion,” said Dae-Jin Kim, PhD, who is the leader of the development team at UCF.

Orlando Health and UCF are a natural fit for the project.

“Partnering with an industrial collaborator (Exact Dynamics) and a clinical collaborator (Orlando Health) makes sense because it will facilitate rapid translation and adoption of this technology” said Aman Behal, PhD, director of the Assistive Robotics Laboratory at the School of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science and NanoScience Technology Center and principal investigator of the study.

There are an estimated 259,000 people living with spinal cord injury in the United States. Each year, there are approximately 12,000 new cases.

More information about the study

About Orlando Health
Orlando Health is a $1.5 billion not-for-profit health care organization and a community-based network of nine hospitals and care centers in the Orlando region. The organization, which includes the area’s only Level One Trauma Centers for adults and pediatrics, is a statutory teaching hospital system that offers both specialty and community hospitals. They are: Orlando Regional Medical Center; Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children; Winnie Palmer Hospital for Women and Babies; Lucerne Hospital; Dr. P. Phillips Hospital; South Seminole Hospital; South Lake Hospital (50 percent partnership); St. Cloud Regional Medical Center (20 percent partnership) and MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando – the first affiliate of one of the nation’s premier cancer centers The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando in Houston. Orlando Health’s areas of clinical excellence are heart and vascular, cancer care, neurosciences, surgery, pediatric orthopedics and sports medicine, neonatology, and obstetrics and gynecology.

Women Playing For T.I.M.E. ® and Orlando Rowing Club Raise Valuable Funds to Fight Breast Cancer at MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando

6/16/2009 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, FL (June 16, 2009) – Recently, rowers from rowing clubs across the country took to Lake Fairview to participate in the 2nd Annual Florida Masters Regatta and raise valuable funds in the fight against breast cancer. This year’s Regatta had an impressive first year raising $1,900 to benefit local cancer treatment and research at MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando through Women Playing For T.I.M.E.® (Technology, Immediate Diagnosis, Mammography and Education).

"We're very pleased to partner with Women Playing For T.I.M.E. to benefit MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando," says Orlando Rowing Club President Greg Kerrebrock. "Money raised during the Regatta will help support important research and activities to fight cancer locally."

Orlando Rowing Club novice rower and Women Playing For T.I.M.E. board member, Andrea Eliscu, helped forge the partnership. “As the beneficiary of the donations from the Masters Regatta, we will continue to contribute to our goal of treating and eradicating breast cancer for the women of our community,” she explains. “We have several rowers in our club who are cancer survivors. This is a great sport for fitness, mental concentration and overall health. It benefits survivors, caregivers, family and friends alike.”

The Regatta made for a great day of masters and open racing and included a Corporate Challenge 500-meter dash with teams from Orlando Health and Women Playing For T.I.M.E. amongst others. Some of the participants were breast cancer survivors, and for many, it was a chance to contribute directly and locally to a cause that has touched so many.

About Women Playing For T.I.M.E. ®
Women Playing For T.I.M.E. (Technology, Immediate Diagnosis, Mammography and Education) is an all-women volunteer group, focused on defeating breast cancer that began 17 years ago in partnership with MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando. WPFT raises valuable funds through golf, tennis and other fundraising events in Central Florida. Since its beginning, WPFT has raised more than $7.5 million for breast cancer research and programs at MD Anderson – Orlando. In addition, monies raised have helped to purchase technologies that provide for the immediate diagnosis and education of other forms of female-related cancers. WPFT is led by a core of volunteers with a history of generating strong financial support throughout the community. To learn more about Women Playing For T.I.M.E., contact Lynda Canatay at 321.841.2272 or Lynda.Canatay@orlandohealth.com

Dr. Phillips Hospital expands cardiac services, offers elective angioplasty, stenting

6/11/2009 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, Fla. (June 11, 2009) – New state rules have cleared the way for patients in the Southwest Community to have elective procedures to unclog their arteries at the hospital in their neighborhood – Dr. P. Phillips Hospital. Dr. Phillips Hospital is the first community hospital in Greater Orlando to provide elective angioplasty and stenting for patients. Before the rule change, state guidelines required these elective procedures be performed only at hospitals with onsite open-heart surgery capabilities. Under previous guidelines patients at Dr. Phillips Hospital needing these elective procedures would have been transported to Orlando Regional Medical Center.

“We know that time is muscle when it comes to the heart,” Mark A. Steiner, MD, an interventional cardiologist who practices at Dr. Phillips Hospital’s Cath Lab. “More timely intervention without delays will help improve outcomes. We are pleased to offer this service for our community in our community.”

Dr. Phillips Hospital has provided diagnostic services in its cath lab since 2000. Taking services one step further to perform an immediate procedure to restore blood flow to the heart, known as percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI), is even more beneficial to patient care. PCI options include angioplasty and stenting.

“Patients benefit from having a PCI performed in the same setting of initial care,” said Dr. Steiner. “Coordination of care is maintained, treatment begins more quickly, medical resources are used more efficiently and transportation costs are reduced.”

Previous state guideline requirements determining where certain cardiac procedures could be performed date back to years ago when PCIs often required emergent bypass surgery afterwards, explains Dr. Steiner.

“Due to improvements in the technology of angioplasty and stents, specialized training and the experience of our cath lab team, the number of patients needing surgery after a PCI has dropped dramatically,” said Dr. Steiner.

In the unlikely event of needed surgery after PCI, state guidelines require a hospital to be able to transport a patient from a cath lab to a hospital that can provide open heart surgery in less than 60 minutes. Dr. Phillip’s has protocols in place to insure that those patients would be transported from the cath lab-to-surgery at ORMC within the time frame.

In addition to the new elective angioplasty and stenting services offered, Dr. Phillips Hospital continues to provide these immediate cardiac care procedures for patients during heart attacks. The hospital began the later services in February 2008.

Current state guidelines for patients having a heart attack require a door-to-treatment time, also referred to as door-to-balloon time, of 90 minutes or less. Dr. Phillips Hospital’s current time averages 56 minutes.

About Orlando Health

Orlando Health is a $1.5 billion not-for-profit health care organization and a community-based network of nine hospitals and care centers in the Orlando region. The organization, which includes the area’s only Level One Trauma Centers for adults and pediatrics, is a statutory teaching hospital system that offers both specialty and community hospitals. They are: Orlando Regional Medical Center; Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children; Winnie Palmer Hospital for Women and Babies; Lucerne Hospital; Dr. P. Phillips Hospital; South Seminole Hospital; South Lake Hospital (50 percent partnership); St. Cloud Regional Medical Center (20 percent partnership) and MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando – the first affiliate of one of the nation’s premier cancer centers The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando in Houston. Orlando Health’s areas of clinical excellence are heart and vascular, cancer care, neurosciences, surgery, pediatric orthopedics and sports medicine, neonatology, and obstetrics and gynecology.

ORMC among the first hospitals to offer new implantable deep brain stimulation device for patients with Parkinson’s disease

6/11/2009 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, Fla. (June 8, 2009) – Patients with Parkinson’s disease have new options to control the life-impacting movements they face on a continual basis. Today, Orlando Regional Medical Center (ORMC) becomes among the first hospitals in the nation to implant the Activa® PC. The Activa PC and the Activa® RC, by Medtronic, are two deep brain stimulation (DBS) devices available for the treatment of the symptoms of movement disorders, including advanced Parkinson’s disease. Recently approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, the devices deliver small electrical pulses to precisely targeted areas within one or both sides of the brain to help achieve greater control over disabling body movements. ORMC offers both options.

“Both the Activa RC and Activa PC neurostimulators mark significant progress for patients with movement disorders, helping improve their health and quality of life,” said Nizam Razack, MD, a neurosurgeon and chair of neurosurgery at ORMC. “This type of surgery also represents significant advancements as neurosurgery moves more towards bionic technology-enhancing anatomical structures with electronic components. Historically neurosurgery involved removing things from the body. Today we are able to implant devices like neurostimulators to send electrical signals in the brain to affect movement throughout the body, in essence telling the brain how to artificially do what it cannot naturally do.”

Both Activa RC and Activa PC can provide bi-lateral stimulation (to both sides of the brain) and have new programming options that give surgeons greater ability to fine tune stimulation. For patients, the devices’ hand-held programmer has new features, including an LCD screen that provides valuable information, including neurostimulator battery status. The programmer also allows patients to choose between pre-set clinician-configured stimulation parameters to customize their therapy to suit different lifestyle needs.

The Activa RC and Activa PC devices have unique features.

Activa PC, expected to become the most implanted DBS device, offers multiple benefits of greater patient control without regular maintenance by the patient, improved surgeon programming options and a smaller size. The Activa PC neurostimulator represents a 20 percent reduction in size and weight compared to previous bi-lateral, primary cell devices but with a similar two-to five-year battery life.

The Activa RC is the first and only rechargeable DBS neurostimulator in the world and lasts for nine years before replacement is necessary. Patients need to recharge the device at home on a regular basis depending on their stimulation settings. Activa RC, also significantly smaller than previous bi-lateral devices, is expected to be used for some patients with high-energy stimulation requirements.

“Activa RC and Activa PC expand our family of Medtronic DBS therapy devices to give patients and physicians the flexibility they need to customize a successful DBS treatment program to manage the debilitating symptoms of movement disorders like Parkinson’s disease and essential tremor,” said Richard E. Kuntz, M.D., senior vice president and president of the Neuromodulation business at Medtronic. “These devices also accentuate Medtronic’s place as the long-time pioneer and leader in neuromodulation technology, represented by the only commercially available DBS therapy system in the United States, 20 years of DBS experience, and an ongoing commitment to further pursuit of technology innovations to improve the lives of patients.”

About Orlando Health

Dr. P. Phillips Hospital Receives Chest Pain Center Accreditation

6/8/2009 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, Fla. (May 28, 2009) — Dr. P. Phillips Hospital Chest Pain Center recently received full accreditation from the Society of Chest Pain Centers’ Accreditation Review Committee.

The Chest Pain Center is designed to deliver more timely care during the beginning stages of a heart attack, when treatments are most effective, and to better monitor patients when it is not clear whether they are having a problem with their heart. The specialized procedures help ensure that a patient is neither sent home too early nor needlessly admitted.

Dr. Phillips Hospital’s Chest Pain Center has demonstrated expertise and commitment to quality patient care by meeting or exceeding a wide set of stringent criteria and completing on-site evaluations by a review team. Key areas include:

Integrating the emergency department with the local emergency medical system
Assessing, diagnosing, and treating patients quickly
Effectively treating patients with low risk for acute coronary syndrome and no assignable cause for their symptoms
Continually seeking to improve processes and procedures
Ensuring Chest Pain Center personnel competency and training
Maintaining organizational structure and commitment
Having a functional design that promotes optimal patient care
Supporting community outreach programs that educate the public to promptly seek medical care if they display symptoms of a possible heart attack

With the increase in the number of Chest Pain Centers came the need to institute guidelines to improve the consistency and quality of care provided to patients. The Society’s accreditation process insures designated centers meet or exceed quality-of-care measures in acute cardiac medicine.

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About Orlando Health
Orlando Health is a $1.5 billion not-for-profit health care organization and a community-based network of nine hospitals and care centers in the Orlando region. The organization, which includes the area’s only Level One Trauma Centers for adults and pediatrics, is a statutory teaching hospital system that offers both specialty and community hospitals. They are: Orlando Regional Medical Center; Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children; Winnie Palmer Hospital for Women and Babies; Lucerne Hospital; Dr. P. Phillips Hospital; South Seminole Hospital; South Lake Hospital (50 percent partnership); St. Cloud Regional Medical Center (20 percent partnership) and MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando – the first affiliate of one of the nation’s premier cancer centers The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando in Houston. Orlando Health’s areas of clinical excellence are heart and vascular, cancer care, neurosciences, surgery, pediatric orthopedics and sports medicine, neonatology, and obstetrics and gynecology.

About the Society of Chest Pain Centers (SCPC)
The Society of Chest Pain Centers is a patient centric non-profit international professional organization focused upon improving care for patients with acute coronary syndromes and other related maladies. Established in 1998, the Society is dedicated to patient advocacy and focusing on ischemic heart disease. Central to its mission is the question, “What is right for the patient?” In answer, the Society promotes protocol based medicine, often delivered through a Chest Pain Center model to address the diagnosis and treatment of acute coronary syndromes, heart failure, and to promote the adoption of process improvement science by healthcare providers. To best fulfill this mission, the Society of Chest Pain Centers provides accreditation to facilities striving for optimum Chest Pain Center care. SCPC is headquartered in Columbus, Ohio.

For more information on the Society of Chest Pain Centers visit www.scpcp.org, or contact Robert Lipetz, Executive Director at 614.442.5950 or director@scpcp.org.

MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando Receives $1.3 million to Support Cancer Research

4/21/2009 12:00:00 AM

Orlando, FL – April 20, 2009 – The MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando – Cancer Research Institute has received a generous donation to provide support for ongoing research in the search for a cure for cancer. The donation of $1.3 million dollars, funded by the Arnold D. Palmer Charitable Trust, will establish the Winnie Palmer Endowed Directorship, supporting the role of the director of the Cancer Research Institute.

“We are truly appreciative and grateful for the continued support of the Palmer Family,” said Clarence Brown, MD, President and CEO of MD Anderson – Orlando. “Their commitment to help find a cure for cancer is inspirational. Our researchers, lead by director Dr. Cheryl Baker, are making tremendous strides in cancer research and are saving lives. This generous donation, funding the continuation of valuable research of our Cancer Research Institute will undoubtedly save additional lives. “

The Cancer Research Institute will be expanding this summer to Medical City at Lake Nona. The research facility, which will be located within the UCF College of Medicine’s Burnett School of Biomedical Sciences building, will play a pivotal role in the future of cutting edge cancer research.

ORMC Receives Chest Pain Center Accreditation

4/9/2009 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDOA, Fla. (April 9, 2009) — Orlando Regional Medical Center’s (ORMC) Chest Pain Center recently received full accreditation from the Society of Chest Pain Centers’ Accreditation Review Committee. ORMC is the first Level One Trauma Center in Florida to receive this designation.

“Heart attacks are the leading cause of death in our country and chest pain is a leading chief complaint in our Emergency Department,” said Gary Parrish, emergency medicine physician and chair, Emergency Department. “Our Chest Pain Center is designed to improve outcomes by beginning treatment sooner, and increase the accuracy and effectiveness of treatment.”

The Chest Pain Center’s special protocol helps to reduce the time to treatment during the critical early stages of a heart attack, when treatments are most effective, and to better monitor patients when it is not clear whether they are having a coronary event. Such observation helps ensure that a patient is neither sent home too early nor needlessly admitted.

ORMC’s Chest Pain Center has demonstrated expertise and commitment to quality patient care by meeting or exceeding a wide set of stringent criteria and completing on-site evaluations by a review team. Key areas include:

Integrating the emergency department with the local emergency medical system
Assessing, diagnosing, and treating patients quickly
Effectively treating patients with low risk for acute coronary syndrome and no assignable cause for their symptoms
Continually seeking to improve processes and procedures
Ensuring Chest Pain Center personnel competency and training
Maintaining organizational structure and commitment
Having a functional design that promotes optimal patient care
Supporting community outreach programs that educate the public to promptly seek medical care if they display symptoms of a possible heart attack

With the rise of Chest Pain Centers came the need to establish standards designed to improve the consistency and quality of care provided to patients. The Society’s accreditation process insures centers meet or exceed quality-of-care measures in acute cardiac medicine.

About Orlando Health

Orlando Health is a $1.5 billion not-for-profit health care organization and a community-based network of nine hospitals and care centers in the Orlando region. The organization, which includes the area’s only Level One Trauma Centers for adults and pediatrics, is a statutory teaching hospital system that offers both specialty and community hospitals. They are: Orlando Regional Medical Center; Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children; Winnie Palmer Hospital for Women and Babies; Lucerne Hospital; Dr. P. Phillips Hospital; South Seminole Hospital; South Lake Hospital (50 percent partnership); St. Cloud Regional Medical Center (20 percent partnership) and MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando – the first affiliate of one of the nation’s premier cancer centers The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando in Houston. Orlando Health’s areas of clinical excellence are heart and vascular, cancer care, neurosciences, surgery, pediatric orthopedics and sports medicine, neonatology, and obstetrics and gynecology.

Orlando Health is Central Florida’s fifth largest employer with nearly 14,000 employees and more than 2,000 affiliated physicians, all of whom support our philosophy of providing high quality care and service when it matters most. We prove this everyday with over 100,000 inpatient admissions and more than 600,000 outpatient visits each year. In all, Orlando Health serves 1.6 million Central Florida residents and nearly 3,000 international patients annually. Additionally, Orlando Health provides approximately $198 million in support of community health needs. More information can be found at www.orlandohealth.com.

About the Society of Chest Pain Centers (SCPC)

The Society of Chest Pain Centers is a patient centric non-profit international professional organization focused upon improving care for patients with acute coronary syndromes and other related maladies. Established in 1998, the Society is dedicated to patient advocacy and focusing on ischemic heart disease. Central to its mission is the question, “What is right for the patient?” In answer, the Society promotes protocol based medicine, often delivered through a Chest Pain Center model to address the diagnosis and treatment of acute coronary syndromes, heart failure, and to promote the adoption of process improvement science by healthcare providers. To best fulfill this mission, the Society of Chest Pain Centers provides accreditation to facilities striving for optimum Chest Pain Center care. SCPC is headquartered in Columbus, Ohio.

For more information on the Society of Chest Pain Centers visit www.scpcp.org, or contact Robert Lipetz, Executive Director at 614.442.5950 or director@scpcp.org.

ORMC opens state-of-the-art Endovascular Surgery Suite

4/7/2009 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, Fla. (April 7, 2009) — Endovascular surgeons at Orlando Regional Medical Center (ORMC) are now using a new high-tech operating room (OR) that integrates digital imaging diagnostics, radiological, catheterization and surgical capabilities in one suite instead of treatment in various hospital areas. For patients the new suite means they spend less time in surgery and the hospital, and recover with less pain, returning more quickly to an improved healthier lifestyle. ORMC is the only hospital in Greater Orlando with an Endovascular Surgery Suite in the OR.

Endovascular surgery is a form of minimally invasive surgery that allows access to various areas of the body through a small puncture via major blood vessels, instead of large incisions. Typically the chosen vessel is the femoral artery or a vein near the groin. Common surgeries and procedures include carotid artery stenting, abdominal aortic aneurysm repairs and treatment for lower extremity peripheral vascular disease like blood clots in the legs.

“We are excited to bring our community this technological advancement,” said Jon M. Wesley, MD, a vascular surgeon who practices at ORMC. “We are able to perform endovascular surgery and other procedures to treat vascular problems more efficiently and effectively while improving the quality of life for patients."

The new endovascular suite combines the best of both worlds: the cutting-edge imaging and image processing found in independent radiological and angiography suites and the more sterile environment of an OR which is needed in more complex endovascular procedures.

The smaller incisions mean less post-operative pain which in turn leads to more time enjoying the benefits of a healthier lifestyle. For example, a traditional approach to treating abdominal aortic aneurysm would entail a surgical incision from a patient’s breast bone to their belly button, followed by a possible 10-day hospital stay. This same procedure can now be done using a minimally invasive technique, may only require a 3-day stay.

The Endovascular Surgery Suite can also be used for traumatic injuries such as thoracic tears (a major artery tear in the chest area) – a common injury from the force of impact sustained in a motor vehicle or motorcycle crash or a traumatic fall.

About Orlando Health

Pink Lemonade Stand Raises Nearly $24,000 for MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando

3/24/2009 12:00:00 AM

Orlando, FL - March 24, 2009 - When friends Victoria Petrucelly and Jesse Theobald first came up with the idea to have a pink lemonade stand they were hoping to raise at least $50. When Victoria`s mother Angela was diagnosed with breast cancer, the event took on more meaning. On Monday, the girls presented MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando with a check for $23,856.73.

Friends and family of Angela Petrucelly join Dr. Clarence Brown, President and CEO of MD Anderson – Orlando, for a pink lemonade toast as he accepts a check for $23,856.73 from Victoria Petrucelly and Jesse Theobald.

"This money will help find the cure for breast cancer," said Clarence Brown, MD, President and CEO of MD Anderson - Orlando as he accepted the check from Victoria and Jesse. "This is just a tremendous accomplishment, we are so proud and appreciative of these young ladies and we know Angela would be proud as well."

Angela Petrucelly, Victoria`s mother, lost her battle with breast cancer in February at the age of 40. In her honor, the girls launched their lemonade stand last weekend to benefit MD Anderson - Orlando where Angela was treated. They spent the weekend with classmates pouring up glasses of pink lemonade and collecting donations.

"It started small but ended up being one of the biggest things in Orlando," Victoria said. Jesse added, "I`m just happy it happened. When you`re a kid, things usually don`t happen."

"Angela loved the care at MD Anderson - Orlando," said Victoria`s father, Reid. "They treat the person as a whole as well as the family." In addition to Victoria, she and her husband, Reid, have a 4-year-old son, Vincent.

The "Think Pink Lemonade Stand" began as a simple idea from two little girls, and others joined the cause. Countless companies and individuals donated to the effort, including Publix at the Paramount - Downtown Orlando and Chick-Fil-A of Central Florida. Two local companies, Lilly Pulitzer - Park Avenue and Palmer`s Garden & Goods, donated a portion of their weekend sales to the lemonade stand.

MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando, part of Orlando Health, is affiliated with The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando in Houston. U.S. News & World Report recently ranked MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando as the top cancer treatment center in the U.S. and has ranked it as one of the top two cancer centers for the past 13 years. Orlando Health, a 1,780-bed community-owned, Florida not-for-profit organization established in 1918, annually serves nearly 2 million Central Florida residents and more than 4,500 international patients. More information is available at www.mdandersonorlando.org.

Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children launches In the Zone

3/19/2009 12:00:00 AM

Orlando, FL (March 19, 2009) - Physician leaders and executives from Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children were joined today by Orlando Mayor Buddy Dyer, renowned pediatrician Thomas Tonniges, MD, director of the Institute for Child Health Improvement with Boys Town National Research Hospital and the American Academy of Pediatrics` Leonard P. Rome Visiting Professor and representatives from several community organizations to introduce In the Zone. The new medical education program will officially roll out in Orlando`s Parramore community Monday, March 23, 2009. It is designed to teach residents to recognize and understand the numerous community factors that can impact a child`s physical health.

"We hope to provide residents with innovative educational experiences in community settings where they can get to know children, youth, their families and their health concerns and resources better," said Veenod Chulani, MD, director of the In the Zone program for Arnold Palmer Hospital. "In the Zone will equip residents with the knowledge and skills to serve as effective leaders and agents of change for children in our community or in communities where their future practices may lead them."

The Parramore community was selected as the program site due to statistics which indicate the community could benefit from a program like In the Zone. Based on census data from 2000, the Parramore neighborhood is home to more than 2,000 children, of whom 73% live in poverty, 84% in single parent households and 31% in households where no parent works. The infant mortality rate in the community is almost two-and-a-half times the national mortality rate and the rate for Orange County. And 41% of the community`s children have chronic health needs that are not readily addressed given barriers to access to care. In the Zone will promote community health through collaboration and further complement efforts by the city of Orlando, residents and local businesses to revitalize the community.

"Forty-one percent of Parramore households have at least one child with chronic health needs," said Mayor Dyer. "Leveraging community partnerships with Arnold Palmer Hospital`s In the Zone project will help us achieve one of the fundamental goals of Parramore Kidz Zone by identifying those children with acute and chronic health care needs ensuring they receive appropriate treatment."

In the Zone will provide innovative training experiences that help prepare residents to be advocates for children. The program`s goal is to eliminate health care disparities for people of diverse racial, ethnic and cultural backgrounds while improving the quality of services and health outcomes in the community. "The field of community pediatric training places the residents back in the community and teaches them about the environments in which their patients actually live and go to school," said Joan Younger Meek, MD, academic chairman, Medical Education Pediatrics, Arnold Palmer Hospital. "The discipline also exposes pediatric residents in training to the social support networks in place in the community and trains them to be better advocates for their patients and families. We are excited about the opportunities that In the Zone will provide for our pediatric residents to engage with the local child advocates and families in the Parramore community in Orlando."

Several community organizations in the Parramore area will serve as In the Zone partners including the Center for Multicultural Wellness and Prevention, the Orlando Day Nursery, the Healthy Start Coalition of Orange County and the Howard Phillips Center for Children & Families` Teen Xpress program. (A complete list is attached.) Arnold Palmer Hospital`s residents will participate in activities of community partner agencies for their two week rotation, during which they will provide health education, health navigation, mentorship and health advocacy. They will also function as liaison, resource person and consultant in matters of child, adolescent and family health to community partners during their residency.

About Arnold Palmer Hosptial for Children

Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children, supported by the Arnold Palmer Medical Center Foundation, is a 158-bed facility dedicated exclusively to the needs of children. Located in Orlando, Arnold Palmer Hospital provides expertise in pediatric specialties such as cardiac care, craniomaxillofacial surgery, emergency and trauma care, gastroenterology, nephrology, oncology, orthopedics, pulmonology and sports medicine. Visit www.arnoldpalmerhospital.com to learn more about all of our specialties.

About the Department of Pediatrics

The Department of Pediatrics at Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children consists of 11 faculty general pediatricians and community pediatricians who maintain privileges and participate in department-sponsored educational activities, nurse practitioners and support staff who provide a full range of pediatric services. Arnold Palmer Hospital is the training site for 42 pediatric residents and is the only pediatric training residency training program in the Greater Orlando area. The department delivers pediatric services from a 158-bed hospital, a 112-bed neonatal intensive care unit and an outpatient facility that handles more than 20,000 visits each year.

In the Zone Community Partners

1. Dr. J.B. Callahan Neighborhood Center

2. Center for Multicultural Wellness and Prevention - Project Connect

3. Healthy Start Coalition of Orange County

4. Howard Phillips Center for Children & Families - Early Steps

5. Howard Phillips Center for Children & Families - Healthy Families Orange

6. Howard Phillips Center for Children & Families - Teen Xpress

7. John H. Jackson Community Center

8. Nap Ford Community School

9. Orange County Health Department WIC Clinic

10. Orlando Day Nursery

11. Planned Parenthood of Greater Orlando

12. Stephanie C. Spinelli and Associates, Inc.

Count Birdies to Help Babies in Need of Critical Care

3/16/2009 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, Fla. (March 6, 2009) — Each year the Arnold Palmer Invitational Presented by MasterCard donates a portion of its proceeds to Arnold Palmer Medical Center Foundation. In an effort to further strengthen and showcase this long-standing relationship, the Foundation has launched the Birdies for Babies fundraising program, collecting monetary pledges per birdie scored by PGA TOUR professionals during this year’s 31st tournament, held March 23-29 at the Bay Hill Club & Lodge.

Running now until tournament play begins on March 25, the entire Orlando community can get into the golf action by pledging $.01 and up for every birdie scored during the tournament, or by making a one-time donation, to support the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) at Winnie Palmer Hospital for Women & Babies. A "birdie" occurs when a golfer completes a hole one shot under par; there have been an average of 1,149 birdies a year over the past five tournaments, ranging from a low of 1,057 in 2005, to a high of 1,261 in 2006.

The Winnie Palmer Hospital for Women & Babies NICU is the fourth largest in the United States and is organized to provide highly skilled, life saving care to Orlando`s tiniest babies. More than 1,600 babies are admitted into the NICU each year, and the unit consistently demonstrates the best outcome statistics in Florida.

“Each year the Arnold Palmer Invitational Presented by MasterCard helps raise much-needed funds for both Arnold Palmer and Winnie Palmer hospitals. This program is a great extension of that relationship and allows us to further involve the community in helping babies in need,” said Jeffrey Muddell, Arnold Palmer Medical Center Foundation vice president.

Those interested in pledging can complete a Birdies for Babies pledge form online, download one from ArnoldPalmerInvitational.com by clicking on the “Charities” page, or pick one up at any of the community golf and retail partner locations listed on the Web site. Just for filling out a pledge form, participants are eligible to receive one of several hundred gifts provided by local businesses, including gift cards and free rounds of golf. Plus, they will have the chance to guess the total number of birdies that will be scored at this year’s tournament, with a correct guess making them eligible to win one of three grand prizes:

Stay-and-Play at Arnold Palmer’s Bay Hill Club & Lodge; includes two (2) deluxe rooms for one (1) night, buffet breakfast and a round of golf for four (4).
Four (4) weekly clubhouse badges for the 2010 Arnold Palmer Invitational Presented by MasterCard.
Four (4) Annual 2-Park Power Passes to Universal Orlando Resort.

“Our partnership with the Foundation is a key element of the Tournament, and paramount to our commitment to the Orlando community,” said Scott Wellington, Arnold Palmer Invitational Presented by MasterCard tournament director. “We are proud to support the Birdies for Babies program and hope that all tournament birdie records are broken this year.”

About Winnie Palmer Hospital For Women & Babies
Winnie Palmer Hospital for Women & Babies, supported by the Arnold Palmer Medical Center Foundation, is a 285-bed facility dedicated exclusively to the needs of women and babies. The hospital includes comprehensive fetal diagnostics and labor and delivery services, a regional center for neonatal intensive care, maternal intensive care and women’s services. Annually, more than 14,000 babies are expected to be born at Winnie Palmer Hospital, making it the busiest labor and delivery unit in the state of Florida. To learn more, visit www.winniepalmerhospital.com.

About The Arnold Palmer Invitational Presented By Mastercard
The Arnold Palmer Invitational Presented by MasterCard will hold its 31st annual tournament March 23-29, 2009. The Arnold Palmer Invitational Presented by MasterCard is one of Central Florida’s signature events, a premier sporting event and a highlight of the PGA TOUR, attracting some of the greatest talent in golf. The entire event is overseen and directed by one of the game’s all-time greats — Arnold Palmer. Proceeds from the tournament benefit the Arnold Palmer Medical Center Foundation, including Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children and Winnie Palmer Hospital for Women & Babies.

For more information visit ArnoldPalmerInvitational.com.

MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando Launches Central Florida’s First Breast Cancer Survivorship Clinic

3/3/2009 12:00:00 AM

Orlando, FL – March 2, 2009 – At MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando, patients ring a special bell, signifying the successful completion of cancer treatment and their transition to cancer survivorship. Now, breast cancer survivors will be able to benefit from the first cancer survivorship program in Central Florida, the MD Anderson – Orlando Survivorship Clinic. The Clinic, located on the Orlando Health campus just south of downtown Orlando, will provide long term physical and emotional healthcare needs to breast cancer survivors who have no evidence of active cancer.

“The opening of our Survivorship Clinic marks the beginning of a new phase of cancer care here in Central Florida,” said Clarence Brown, MD, President and CEO of MD Anderson – Orlando. “Cancer survivors, who have always been an important part of our Breast Care Center, now have their very own clinic focused on their individual needs. These patients have fought and won their battle with cancer and as a result their healthcare needs are very unique.”

At the MD Anderson – Orlando Survivorship Clinic, each breast cancer survivor will work closely with a nurse practitioner to chart out an individual Survivor Care Plan, including future plans for cancer screenings and appropriate follow up care with primary care physicians. MD Anderson – Orlando joins an elite group of cancer survivorship programs serving some of the more than 10 million cancer survivors nationwide. This program was based on similar survivorship programs at MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando Houston, Sloan Kettering Memorial, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, and the Lance Armstrong Foundation.

MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando, part of Orlando Health, is affiliated with The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando in Houston. U.S. News & World Report recently ranked MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando as the top cancer treatment center in the U.S. and has ranked it as one of the top two cancer centers for the past 13 years. Orlando Health, a 1,780-bed community-owned, Florida not-for-profit organization established in 1918, annually serves nearly 2 million Central Florida residents and more than 4,500 international patients. More information is available at www.mdandersonorlando.org.

Colon Cancer Surgery Gives Florida Lacrosse Star a Second Chance

3/3/2009 12:00:00 AM

A 21-year-old lacrosse player at the University of Florida, Kaley Pendley is survivor. Last year at just 20 years old, Pendley was diagnosed with colon cancer. Dr. Paul Williamson performed her surgery at Orlando Regional Medical Center and she received care at MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando. One year later, Pendley is cancer free and back on the lacrosse field. View her story.

Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children Receives Donation from Business Leaders Donald Trump and Stewart Rahr

2/26/2009 12:00:00 AM

Donald Trump, Chairman and CEO of the Trump Organization (Left) and Stewart Rahr, President and CEO of Kinray Inc. (Right) present Arnold Palmer with a $350,000 cash donation to Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children

Orlando, FL (February 25, 2009) - Donald Trump, CEO of the Trump Organization and Stewart Rahr, CEO of Kinray Inc., donated $350,000 to Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children. Trump and Rahr were given a tour of Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children and Winnie Palmer Hospital for Women & Babies by golf-legend Arnold Palmer.

Rahr previously donated $400,000 to Arnold Palmer Hospital through a charity event in Las Vegas where he purchased a package that included a round of golf with Arnold Palmer.

"We appreciate the generosity of both Mr. Trump and Mr. Rahr and their support of our mission to provide state-of-the-art, specialized care to our patients," said John Bozard, president, Arnold Palmer Medical Center Foundation. "Their donation will touch the lives of many children and families."

Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children, supported by the Arnold Palmer Medical Center Foundation, is a 158-bed facility dedicated exclusively to the needs of children. Located in Orlando, Arnold Palmer Hospital provides expertise in pediatric specialties such as cardiac care, craniomaxillofacial surgery, emergency and trauma care, gastroenterology, nephrology, oncology, orthopedics, pulmonology and sports medicine. Visit arnoldpalmerhospital.com to learn more about all of our specialties.

Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children Appoints Leaders for Pediatric Neuroscience Program

2/25/2009 12:00:00 AM

Orlando, FL (February 23, 2009) – Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children announced today the appointment of the physician leadership team for its Pediatric Neuroscience program.

Jogi Pattisapu, MD, was named medical director for the Pediatric Neuroscience program. Dr. Pattisapu has served the children of Greater Orlando for 17 years as a pediatric neurosurgeon helping to establish and grow pediatric neurosurgery capabilities. As medical director, Pattisapu will expand services at Arnold Palmer Hospital for kids with neurological disorders and surgical needs.

He received his medical degree from the University of Texas and completed his residency in neurosurgery at the University of Mississippi School of Medicine and his fellowship in pediatric neurosurgery at the University of Utah School of Medicine. Pattisapu is board certified in pediatric neurosurgery.

The hospital also appointed Ronald Davis, MD, Christopher Gegg, MD, and Greg Olivarria, MD, as associate medical directors.

Dr. Davis will serve as the associate medical director of Epileptology. He received his medical degree and completed his residency in pediatrics at the Brody School of Medicine at East Carolina University. He completed his fellowship in pediatric neurology at Children’s Hospital Boston and is board certified in pediatrics and neurology.

Dr. Gegg will serve as the associate medical director of Neurosurgery. He received his medical degree from Louisiana State University School of Medicine and completed his residency in neurosurgery at the University of Texas Health Science Center. He went on to complete his fellowship in pediatric neurosurgery at Children’s Medical Center/University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center and is board certified in neurosurgery.

Dr. Olavarria will serve as the associate medical director of Neuroscience Research. He received his medical degree from UCLA School of Medicine and completed his residency in neurosurgery at Emory University Hospitals. Following his residency, he attended Children’s Memorial Hospital in Chicago to complete his fellowship in pediatric neurosurgery and is board certified in neurosurgery.

The Pediatric Neuroscience program offers comprehensive specialized services to children with neuromuscular conditions such as, cerebral palsy and muscular dystrophy; craniofacial disorders; epilepsy; hydrocephalus; neonatal disorders; cererovascular disorders; congenital disorders and neurocardiology disorders. The medical team includes pediatric physicians specializing in neurology, neurosurgery and craniofacial disorders.

Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children, supported by the Arnold Palmer Medical Center Foundation, is a 158-bed facility dedicated exclusively to the needs of children. Located in Orlando, Arnold Palmer Hospital includes comprehensive, specialized programs and services for children including acute care, adolescent medicine, a Congenital Heart Institute in partnership with Miami Children’s Hospital, pediatric intensive care, emergency medicine, nephrology, neurology and trauma services to name a few. To learn more, visit www.arnoldpalmerhospital.org.

Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children offers breakthrough scoliosis test

2/25/2009 12:00:00 AM

Orlando, FL (February 24, 2009) – Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children today announced it is offering a new, non-invasive genetic test that can predict the progression of mild cases of scoliosis. The hospital is one of only 40 in the nation and of only two in Florida to offer the new ScoliScore test.

“This test is a breakthrough in determining the severity of scoliosis,” said Charles Price, MD, director of orthopedic education and assistant director of the orthopedic residency program for Arnold Palmer Hospital. “With it, we can predict whether the curvature of spines in some patients will worsen or not.”

The ScoliScore will help doctors reduce unnecessary treatment for non-progressive curves and encourage early treatment of curves that are at high risk of progressing.

“With this test, we can identify some scoliosis patients who need treatment at a much earlier stage and begin that treatment as early as possible,” said Raymond Knapp, MD, a pediatric orthopedic surgeon at Arnold Palmer Hospital who specializes in treating spinal deformities including scoliosis. “It is possible that early scoliosis treatment using non-invasive procedures may prevent the need for surgery at a later date.”

Scoliosis, which is a curvature of the spine, is a disorder of growth that often develops during the adolescent growth spurt when the spine is growing rapidly. It strikes 2% of adolescents and requires treatment in approximately 10% of those who suffer from the disorder. If left untreated, scoliosis can be disfiguring, cause disability and in extreme cases, interfere with lung function. There is no known cause for scoliosis but it does run in families.

Dr. Price, along with Dr. Knapp, served as investigators of the initial multi-year study that helped prove the test’s reliability. That research demonstrated that this test is reliable in Caucasian girls between the ages of 9 and 14. To be considered for eligibility to take the new test, patients must have a previous diagnosis of scoliosis and reflect the demographics of the original study group. With ongoing research in other demographics, the ScoliScore is expected to be available to all populations by the end of the year.

For more information about test eligibility, call Arnold Palmer Hospital’s Pediatric Orthopedic Specialty Practice at 321-841-3040.

About the Pediatric Orthopedic Specialty Practice

The Pediatric Orthopedic Specialty Practice at Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children treated more than 950 scoliosis patients last year. Of those, 105 required surgery. The practice, which consists of six pediatric orthopedic surgeons, is recognized for developing cutting-edge treatments for scoliosis and has been at the forefront of scoliosis care for several decades.

Dr. Price has been a leader in the non-operative treatment of scoliosis. He is past chairman of the non-operative management committee of the Scoliosis Research Society. He has been involved for ten years in research to develop a laboratory test for scoliosis. Dr. Price is a leading developer

Heart Surgeon encourages community members to take care of their hearts

2/19/2009 12:00:00 AM

As we prepare to recognize Valentine’s Day by exchanging gifts and cards embossed with hearts, I want to urge all central Floridians to honor the special day by taking care of the heart that beats inside each chest.

It is fitting that February is Heart Month, and the week of February 8 – 14 has been designated by the U.S. Senate as Heart Failure Awareness Week. Cardiovascular disease is the second leading cause of death in our country, and over five million Americans have been diagnosed with heart failure.

Nationally, there are between 500,000 and 700,000 new cases of heart failure diagnosed every year and about 60,000 deaths a year are attributable to the condition. Heart failure is the only major cardiovascular disease on the rise, and it causes more hospitalizations than all forms of cancer combined.

Unfortunately, millions of people are living with heart failure but are unaware of it because the symptoms are often mistaken for signs of “just getting older”. Common symptoms include shortness of breath, fatigue, ankle swelling, and chest congestion.

Heart failure is not a heart attack, but a progressive condition in which the heart’s muscle becomes weakened after it is injured from something like a heart attack or high blood pressure and gradually loses its ability to pump enough blood to supply the body’s needs. While there is currently no known cure for heart failure, early diagnosis and proper treatment can offer patients a more normal life expectancy.

If you have had a heart attack or experience shortness of breath and are unable to partake in your daily activities like you used to, I encourage you to see a physician and seek treatment. Early diagnosis and treatment can help to slow the progression of this devastating disease.

Sincerely,

Javier A. Lafuente, MD, FACS
Director Heart Transplant Program
Orlando Regional Medical Center
Orlando Health

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Mientras nos preparamos para celebrar el “día de los enamorados o de la amistad”, intercambiando regalos y tarjetas embozadas con corazones, quiero hacer un llamado a todos los habitantes de la Florida Central para que honren este día tan especial cuidando el corazón que late dentro de sus pechos.

Tiene sentido que el mes de febrero sea el “mes del corazón”, y la semana del 8 al 14 de febrero ha sido designada por el Senado de los Estados Unidos como la “Semana de Reconocimiento de la Insuficiencia Cardiaca”. Las enfermedades cardiovasculares son la segunda causa de muerte en nuestro país, y más de 5 millones de personas viven en este momento con insuficiencia cardiaca.

En todo el país, se diagnostican cada año entre 500,000 y 700,000 casos nuevos de insuficiencia cardiaca, y cada año también, más de 60,000 personas mueren como consecuencia de ello. La insuficiencia cardiaca es la única enfermedad cardiovascular que va en aumento, y causa más hospitalizaciones que todos los tipos de cáncer combinados.

Probablemente, y desafortunadamente, millones de personas viven con insuficiencia cardiaca sin saberlo, porque los síntomas se confunden frecuentemente con “síntomas de envejecimiento”. Síntomas frecuentes incluyen falta de aire, cansancio y fatiga, edema o hinchazón de los tobillos, y congestión del pecho.

La insuficiencia cardiaca no es un ataque al corazón o un infarto, sino una enfermedad progresiva en la cual el músculo del corazón se va debilitando progresivamente debido a lesiones como un infarto o presión alta, y gradualmente va perdiendo la habilidad de bombear la sangre en cantidad suficiente para las necesidades del cuerpo. Aunque actualmente no existe una cura para la insuficiencia cardiaca, el diagnóstico temprano y el tratamiento adecuado permiten una sobrevida casi normal.

Si usted ha tenido un infarto o ataque al corazón en el pasado o padece de presión alta, y si sufre de falta de aire, o le cuesta realizar sus labores cotidianas, le aconsejo que vea a su doctor y busque tratamiento. El diagnóstico temprano y el tratamiento adecuado pueden ayudar a retardar el progreso de esta enfermedad tan devastadora.

Sinceramente,

Javier A. Lafuente, MD, FACS.
Director del Programa de Transplante de Corazón
Jefe del Servicio Académico de Cirugía Cardiovascular y Torácica
Orlando Health

Orlando Health and UCF College of Medicine firm up affiliation for teaching tomorrow’s doctors

2/10/2009 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, FL (February 9, 2009) – Third and fourth year students attending the University of Central Florida’s College of Medicine will perform some of their core rotations through clerkships at Orlando Health facilities.

Third year students will have the opportunity to rotate through internal medicine, surgery, OB-GYN, pediatrics and neurology at Orlando Health facilities. Fourth year students may rotate through emergency medicine and critical care. Fourth year students may also participate in select sub-internships and electives including cardiology, oncology, pediatric orthopedics and other subspecialties at Orlando Health facilities.

These are some of the details explained in a new addendum to the agreement between UCF and Orlando Health. The original agreement was announced in October 2007.

“This clerkship program with UCF’s College of Medicine gives some of our doctors the opportunity to become UCF faculty and teach UCF medical students at Orlando Health,” said Jay L. Falk, MD, FACEP, FCCM, vice president, Medical Education, Orlando Health. “It’s a tremendous advantage for us, for the students and for the entire greater Orlando community.”

As one of only six statutory teaching facilities in the state, Orlando Health’s graduate medical education program offers seven accredited residencies and 12 fellowships. More than 200 physician residents and fellows are enrolled in the program and more than 200 "affiliate" faculty plus hundreds more medical staff members are available and willing to help train the doctors of tomorrow.

“Embracing Orlando Health as a partner is an important part of the academic and community mission of the UCF College of Medicine,” said Deborah German, MD, dean of the College of Medicine. “It reinforces our efforts to become an integral part of the central Florida community. We appreciate OH’s support and look forward to working together as an academic medical community.”

The University of Central Florida College of Medicine was established in 2006 to increase opportunities for medical education in Florida, address the growing physician shortage nationwide, and provide economic benefits to central Florida and the state through research and technology. The college is assembling a talented and experienced faculty and developing an innovative medical school curriculum. The college will partner with many hospitals and clinics in Central Florida and will offer a doctor of medicine (MD) degree program beginning fall 2009. The college expects to enroll an initial class of 40 students and eventually produce about 120 medical graduates each year.

A recent economic study showed that the UCF College of Medicine is projected to help create more than 30,000 local jobs and have an estimated economic impact of $7.6 billion in 2017.

UCF Stands For Opportunity

The University of Central Florida is a metropolitan research university that ranks as the 5th largest in the nation with more than 50,000 students. UCF’s first classes were offered in 1968. The university offers impressive academic and research environments that power the region’s economic development. UCF’s culture of opportunity is driven by its diversity, Orlando environment, history of entrepreneurship and its youth, relevance and energy. For more information visit http://news.ucf.edu.

About Orlando Health

Orlando Health is a $1.5 billion not-for-profit health care organization and a community-based network of nine hospitals and care centers in the Orlando region. The organization, which includes the area’s only Level One Trauma Centers for adults and pediatrics, is a statutory teaching hospital system that offers both specialty and community hospitals. They are: Orlando Regional Medical Center; Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children; Winnie Palmer Hospital for Women & Babies; Lucerne Hospital; Dr. P. Phillips Hospital; South Seminole Hospital; South Lake Hospital (50 percent partnership); St. Cloud Regional Medical Center (20 percent partnership) and MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando – the first affiliate of one of the nation’s premier cancer centers The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando in Houston. Orlando Health’s areas of clinical excellence are heart and vascular, cancer care, neurosciences, surgery, pediatric orthopedics and sports medicine, neonatology, and obstetrics and gynecology.

Orlando Health helps break the silence of heart failure

2/4/2009 12:00:00 AM

Editor’s Note: National Heart Failure Awareness Week is February 8-14, 2009. To interview Greater Orlando’s newest cardiothoracic and transplant surgeon about heart failure and to hear one family’s story, contact the Media Relations Department.

ORLANDO, Fla. (February 3, 2009) – If walls of hearts could talk they would help break the silence of heart failure, a disease that worsens over time and affects millions in their daily lives and kills thousands each year. Currently there are five million people with heart failure and 500,000 to 700,000 new cases are diagnosed each year. Last year alone there were over 60,000 deaths. As part of the hospital’s annual heart disease awareness and educational campaign, Orlando Regional Medical Center will host a Red February Heart & Vascular Disease Symposium on February 14, 2009.

“Heart failure is very concerning because the incidence is increasing,” said Dr. Javier Lafuente, heart transplant program director and cardiothoracic surgery academic chairman at Orlando Regional Medical Center (ORMC). “Thousands dying each year is serious and five million cases is no light task. Heart failure is a crippling disease with many potential complications and progression over time.”

Many people confuse early stages of heart failure with growing old, said Dr. Lafuente. However, while aging may be a contributing factor, heart failure is not about getting old. In heart failure, at any age for men and women, the heart cannot pump enough blood to meet the body’s demand. When this happens fluid builds up into the body or the lungs, causing swelling in the arms, legs or abdomen and shortness of breath.

To help paint a picture of heart failure symptoms, the Heart Failure Society of America’s message is “Think FACES (Fatigue, Activities limited, Chest congestion, Edema or ankle swelling and Shortness of breath)”.

“The No. 1 cause of heart failure is high blood pressure,” said Dr. Lafuente. “The most important step is controlling high blood pressure properly to prevent its main complications, which are stroke and heart failure. High blood pressure is a very silent disease and can only be found if a person checks their blood pressure on a frequent basis.”

Another cause of heart failure is coronary artery disease.

“Everything that we do to prevent coronary artery disease applies to preventing heart failure,” said Dr. Lafuente. “That includes not smoking, controlling blood pressure, cholesterol and weight, eating healthy and exercising.”

Other factors that contribute to heart failure include obesity, advancing age and diabetes.

There are various stages of heart failure: in mild to moderate heart failure symptoms of slight fatigue, shortness of breath and palpitations occur with exercise, for example walking up a flight of stairs, running a block or walking at a fast pace; however the symptoms resolve at rest. In more severe heart failure, symptoms occur with minimal effort activities such as getting dressed, showering and other daily living activities. There may be shortness of breath even while lying in bed or at rest.

Ways to treat heart failure varies based on severity and includes medications such as water pills, ACE inhibitors, Angiotensin II receptor blockers, vasodilators, digitalis preparations, blood thinners, beta blockers, calcium channel blockers or potassium; devices like pacemakers or implantable defibrillators; procedures like coronary bypass surgery, angioplasty or valve repairs or replacements; or more advanced technology like ventricular assist devices or heart transplantation.

“Not everyone with heart failure will need a heart transplant,” said Dr. Lafuente. “Typically the need for a heart transplant occurs in patients with more severe heart failure.”

Orlando Health was awarded a certificate of need by the state’s Agency for Healthcare Administration to establish a heart transplantation program at Orlando Regional Medical Center. Orlando Health began the program to meet a community need to provide a continuum of cardiac care close to home so patients and their families will no longer have to leave the area for heart transplants.

For additional information about heart failure, visit www.orlandohealth.com/heartfailure.

About Orlando Health

Women`s Imaging Center at South Seminole Hospital Receives $20,000 Donation to Purchase New Equipment

2/4/2009 12:00:00 AM

Longwood, FL (January 23, 2009) - The Women`s Imaging Center at South Seminole Hospital, a part of Orlando Health, received a $20,000 donation from Dr. Joyce and Mr. Buddy Hewell, A.T.A.P. COMPANIES. Dr. Hewell serves on the hospital`s Women`s Advisory Council. The money will be used to purchase a special video camera for monitoring patients during a Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) scan.

The camera gives the MRI technologists the ability to visually monitor the patient while they are in the magnet versus only being able to hear and speak with them.

"We are very appreciative of Dr. Hewell`s donation as it will allow our MRI technologists to observe our patients much more closely than in the past and to communicate with them much faster should they become uncomfortable or apprehensive during their scan," said Kristen Hickey, manager, Women`s Imaging Center at South Seminole Hospital. "However most importantly it will give our patients a new level of comfort, especially those who are claustrophobic, that we are right there with them and can see them every step of the way."

South Seminole Hospital`s Women`s Advisory Council comprises of women from throughout Seminole County who volunteer their time and serve as community advisers to the hospital`s leadership. For more information about the Women`s Advisory Council, contact the Orlando Health Foundation, at 321. 841.5194.

About Orlando Health

Orlando Health is a $1.5 billion not-for-profit health care organization and a community-based network of nine hospitals and care centers in the Orlando region. The organization, which includes the area`s only Level One Trauma Centers for adults and pediatrics, is a statutory teaching hospital system that offers both specialty and community hospitals. They are: Orlando Regional Medical Center; Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children; Winnie Palmer Hospital for Women and Babies; Lucerne Hospital; Dr. P. Phillips Hospital; South Seminole Hospital; South Lake Hospital (50 percent partnership); St. Cloud Regional Medical Center (20 percent partnership) and MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando - the first affiliate of one of the nation`s premier cancer centers The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando in Houston. Orlando Health`s areas of clinical excellence are heart and vascular, cancer care, neurosciences, surgery, pediatric orthopedics and sports medicine, neonatology, and obstetrics and gynecology.

Orlando Health is Central Florida`s fifth largest employer with nearly 14,000 employees and more than 2,000 affiliated physicians, all of whom support our philosophy of providing high quality care and service when it matters most. We prove this everyday with over 100,000 inpatient admissions and more than 600,000 outpatient visits each year. In all, Orlando Health serves 1.6 million Central Florida residents and nearly 3,000 international patients annually. Additionally, Orlando Health provides approximately $198 million in support of community health needs. More information can be found at www.orlandohealth.com.

South Seminole Hospital provides Free Screenings and Lectures about Women and Heart Disease

2/4/2009 12:00:00 AM

Longwood, FL (February 4, 2009) - South Seminole Hospital, a part of Orlando Health, will provide free health screenings and lectures about women and heart disease at 10 a.m. on Saturday, February 28. The women-only event will be held at the Lake Mary Senior Center, 911 Wallace Court, Lake Mary.

Screenings will be held from 10 a.m. to noon and will include Peripheral Vascular Disease (PVD), cholesterol, diabetes, blood pressures and cardiopulmonary screens. A complimentary lunch will be served from 12:00 to 12:30 p.m., followed by a presentation by Javier Lafuente, MD, academic chairman of Cardiothoracic Surgery and director of the Heart Transplant Program at Orlando Regional Medical Center (ORMC), also part of Orlando Health, and Barry Weinstock, MD, a cardiologist who practices at ORMC and its Cardiac Cath Lab. Dr. Lafuente will speak about heart failure and Orlando Health`s exciting new heart transplant program while Dr. Weinstock will discuss women and heart disease.

Reservations are required due to limited seating. To register, please call HealthLine at 321-8 HEALTH (321.843.2584).

About South Seminole Hospital

South Seminole Hospital is a 206 acute care hospital-serving the residents of Seminole County. Part of the Orlando Health family of hospitals, South Seminole Hospital is conveniently located in Longwood on State Road 434 between I-4 and Highway 17-92. For more information, please call 321.842.5969 or visit website southseminolehospital.com.

MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando Physicians Recognized for Service to Pediatric Patients

1/22/2009 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, FL. (January 21, 2009) – Two MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando physicians have been recognized for their service to pediatric cancer patients in Central Florida. Physicians Don Eslin, M.D. and Vincent Giusti, M.D. of MD Anderson – Orlando are the recipients of the BASE Camp Children’s Cancer Foundation 2008 “Extraordinary Service for Children with Cancer” Award.

“Drs. Eslin and Giusti are extraordinary physicians and well deserving of this recognition for their commitment to our youngest cancer patients,” said Clarence Brown, MD, President and CEO of MD Anderson – Orlando. “We thank BASE Camp Children’s Cancer Foundation for recognizing our work here at MD Anderson – Orlando in the fight against cancer.”

Drs. Eslin and Giusti were presented their awards by BASE Camp at a special concert of the Orlando Philharmonic Orchestra at the Bob Carr Performing Arts Centre in early January.

MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando Celebrates 18 Years

1/16/2009 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, FL. (January 16, 2009) – For nearly two decades, MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando has been providing exceptional cancer care to Central Florida and beyond. It was 18 years ago, on January 14, 1991 that MD Anderson – Orlando, then known by its original name Orlando Cancer Center, saw its first patient. Since then the cancer center has grown in both size and scope to become one of the recognized cancer centers in the state of Florida and around the nation.

“Here at MD Anderson – Orlando we have a very dedicated staff of professionals committed to excellence in both medical care as well as customer service,” said Clarence Brown, MD, President and CEO of MD Anderson – Orlando. “They are to be applauded for our accomplishments over the past 18 years. It is because of them that we are continuing to develop the highest quality of cancer care for our patients and expand our clinical, basic and translation research programs and move up the academic ladder.”

When MD Anderson – Orlando began in 1991 as Orlando Cancer Center it started with eight physicians and approximately 75 employees. Since then it has grown to 36 full-time employed and 20 contracted physicians on staff, and more than 350 cancer center team members. In 1991 the cancer center saw 2,500 new patients. Nearly 18 years later, in 2008, it registered more than 4,500 new patients. In 1994, Orlando Cancer Center became MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando and in 2003 moved into the Charles Lewis Pavilion along Orange Avenue on the Orlando Health campus.

Orlando Health Forms Lifestyle Medicine Program with the University of Central Florida and World-Renowned Rippe Health

12/3/2008 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, Fla. (December 2, 2008) – Lifestyle is the new best medicine and Orlando patients and physicians are the new beneficiaries! Beginning in December, Orlando Health is partnering with the University of Central Florida (UCF) and renowned cardiologist, James M. Rippe, MD, one of the nation’s foremost lifestyle medicine experts, to become the first hospital in America to create a lifestyle medicine department and integrate it into patient care and resident education. The goal is to keep patients healthy and help decrease their chances for cancer, heart disease, stroke and diabetes by providing counseling and materials about lifestyle changes that can impact their health.

According to Dr. Rippe, an estimated 70 to 80 percent of all deaths in the United States each year can be tied to poor lifestyle choices. Lifestyle medicine is the study and practice of how to help individuals understand that their daily habits and practices have a profound impact on their short and long term health and quality of life. Dr. Rippe will conduct further research on the subject both at his clinical research laboratory, Rippe Lifestyle Institute, and at the UCF Center for Lifestyle Medicine and use his latest findings to create curricula for Orlando Health’s medical staff and patients.

“Lifestyle medicine isn’t simply about prolonging life, it’s about ensuring people can enjoy their later years with less pain and disease,” said Dr. Rippe. “The future of health care is not only in treating the sick, but also in caring for those who are still well. Bringing lifestyle medicine to patients at Orlando Health is an important step in improving the health of the entire community.”

Jay Falk, MD, vice president, Medical Education, expects the hospital system’s partnership with Dr. Rippe and UCF to put the Greater Orlando area on the forefront of lifestyle medicine. “This new partnership will allow us to not only educate seasoned doctors and residents about the potential benefits of lifestyle medicine on their patients, but it will also enable us to counsel patients who have risk factors for disease before they even leave the hospital,” said Dr. Falk.

One unique aspect of the relationship between Orlando Health and Rippe Health will be the publication of quarterly conferences entitled “Lifestyle Medicine Rounds at Orlando Health” in the American Journal of Lifestyle Medicine (AJLM). AJLM is the only peer reviewed journal in this emerging area of medicine and is received by over 20,000 physicians and other health care workers throughout the United States and internationally.

Doctors who graduate from UCF’s new School of Medicine will have the opportunity to enroll in the residency program at Orlando Regional Medical Center - the area’s only statutory teaching hospital – and learn lifestyle medicine principles that they can pass along to their patients. The eventual goal will be to build a formal fellowship program in lifestyle medicine.

About Orlando Health

About Rippe Health

Rippe Health is one of the leading research and health promotion organizations in the country focused on helping people choose healthier lifestyles. Founder James M. Rippe, M.D. is a nationally recognized authority on preventive cardiology, health and fitness, and healthy weight loss in the U.S. Dr. Rippe is the Director of the Rippe Lifestyle Institute (RLI) and Rippe Health Evaluation (RHE). He is an Associate Professor of Medicine (Cardiology) at Tufts University School of Medicine, and Professor of Biomedical Sciences at the University of Central Florida. Over the past 20 years, RLI has become the largest research organization in the world to explore how daily habits and actions impact short and long-term health and quality of life. RLI has published hundreds of studies that form the scientific basis for the fields of lifestyle medicine and high performance health. Rippe Health Evaluation offers comprehensive health evaluations for individuals. Dr. Rippe also serves as the Chairman of the Center for Lifestyle Medicine at the University of Central Florida. The CLM at UCF is the first University based organization to conduct research and teach students at all levels in the area of lifestyle medicine. For more information on Dr. Rippe and Rippe Health, visit www.rippehealth.com.

About The Center For Lifestyle Medicine at UCF

The Center for Lifestyle Medicine at UCF (CLM at UCF) is the first multi-disciplinary, academic center at a major University devoted to research on the impact of lifestyle habits and choices on the prevention and/or management of disease. For more information on the CLM at UCF, visit <a href="http://www.l

MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando Shares Latest in Cancer Research

11/21/2008 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, FL. (November 6, 2008) – Researchers at MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando shared their latest accomplishments in the fight against cancer at a two-day symposium held on the Orlando Health campus. The inaugural research symposium, held October 30 and 31, brought together MD Anderson – Orlando physicians, scientists and researchers to exchange ideas and discuss new collaborations. In total, updates were provided on 22 ongoing research projects at MD Anderson – Orlando.

“This symposium was an opportunity for our researchers to share with our entire Orlando Health team a snapshot of the groundbreaking work they are doing here to fight cancer. The research advances taking place here are a testament to our commitment to provide state-of-the-art cancer care and hope to our patients,” said Clarence Brown, MD, President and CEO of MD Anderson – Orlando.

Presentations at the symposium ranged from updates on clinical trials to the latest in ongoing bench research projects at the Cancer Research Institute. Currently, MD Anderson – Orlando is at the forefront of cancer research. So far in 2008, its researchers have published an impressive number of peer reviewed scientific articles. The more than 50 articles have appeared worldwide in national and international scientific journals.

Orlando Health’s Information Systems Awarded for Innovation in Patient Discharge Procedures

11/21/2008 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, FL. (November 12, 2008) – Orlando Health’s Information Services (IS) team has received the College of Healthcare Information Management Executives (CHIME) Innovator of the Year Award for its development of an interactive voice response (IVR) automated discharge process. The Patient Discharge Solution, now in use, was proposed by MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando physicians Wayne Jenkins, MD, and Marc Demers, MD. Working together, Orlando Health’s IS team and Nortel designed and developed the innovative solution to improve the efficiency of the discharge process. The pilot program, rolled out on specific floors of MD Anderson – Orlando in 2007, showed an average reduction in patient discharge time by four hours.

“Although IVR and Web technologies are not new to healthcare, it is truly innovative to utilize these technologies to assist clinicians, physicians, patients, family members and potentially dozens of other departments and their staff representatives to discharge patients earlier and more efficiently,” said Rick Schooler, Vice President and Chief Information Officer of Orlando Health.

The Patient Discharge Solution works by contacting the appropriate physicians with a discharge request, and allowing them to respond using either touch tone or voice recognition to accept or decline the request. In the past, nursing staff spent considerable time contacting physicians individually to obtain approvals for discharge. The new call system, using Nortel technology, streamlines the process. Nurses now use the automated system to contact multiple physicians, who in turn can quickly and easily respond remotely to a discharge request. Plans are currently underway to deploy the system in all nursing units at Orlando Health facilities.

Orlando Health is a $1.5 billion not-for-profit health care organization and a community-based network of nine hospitals and care centers in the Orlando region. The organization, which includes the area’s only Level One Trauma Centers for adults and pediatrics, is a statutory teaching hospital system that offers both specialty and community hospitals. They are: Orlando Regional Medical Center; Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children; Winnie Palmer Hospital for Women & Babies; Lucerne Hospital; Dr. P. Phillips Hospital; South Seminole Hospital; South Lake Hospital (50 percent partnership); St. Cloud Regional Medical Center (20 percent partnership) and MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando – the first affiliate of one of the nation’s premier cancer centers The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando in Houston. Orlando Health’s areas of clinical excellence are heart and vascular, cancer care, neurosciences, surgery, pediatric orthopedics and sports medicine, neonatology, and obstetrics and gynecology.

Orlando Health Expands Air Care Program with Addition of Third Helicopter

11/21/2008 12:00:00 AM

Orlando, FL (November 11, 2008) – Orlando Health expanded its Air Care program today with the dedication of a third air ambulance helicopter that will be based at its South Seminole Hospital. It is the first hospital-based EMS helicopter in Seminole County. The addition of the aircraft to the Air Care fleet will give residents in Seminole County and throughout Central Florida faster access to specialized care. Orlando Health also has Air Care Teams based at St. Cloud Hospital in Osceola County and South Lake Hospital in Lake County.

“The addition of the Air Care Team to South Seminole Hospital is going to provide lifesaving emergency care to those in need, which will be a tremendous benefit to our community,” said Steve Glazier, executive director, South Seminole Hospital.

The new helicopter is a Eurocopter BK117 with special beamless, pillarless layout which allows for the complete use of the cabin area for medical care. It also has a larger rear “clamshell” door used for loading and unloading patient stretchers. Additionally, the BK117 allows for specialized transports including neonatal babies, intra-aortic balloon pump patients and double patient loads from the same scene.

“As a leader with the Seminole County Emergency Management Services, I understand the significance of transporting patients in a timely manner to receive the most appropriate level of care as quickly as possible,” said Dr. Todd Husty, medical director, Seminole County Emergency Management Services. ‘We are pleased to have the air ambulance service in our community.”

Orlando Health’s Air Care Team began in 1984 and is the only hospital-based scene responder flight program in Central Florida. Since then, more than 21,000 patients have been transported to Orlando Health’s Level One Trauma Center. The Air Care Team averages 100 flights per month and services an area encompassing a 100-mile radius of Orlando. Omniflight Helicopters Inc., which has been a leader in providing medical transportation services to the health care industry for 45 years, provides the aviation services to Orlando Health’s Air Care Team.

Orlando Health is a $1.5 billion not-for-profit health care organization and a community-based network of nine hospitals and care centers in the Orlando region. The organization, which includes the area’s only Level One Trauma Centers for adults and pediatrics, is a statutory teaching hospital system that offers both specialty and community hospitals. They are: Orlando Regional Medical Center; Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children; Winnie Palmer Hospital for Women and Babies; Lucerne Hospital; Dr. P. Phillips Hospital; South Seminole Hospital; South Lake Hospital (50 percent partnership); St. Cloud Regional Medical Center (20 percent partnership) and MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando – the first affiliate of one of the nation’s premier cancer centers The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando in Houston.

Orlando Health’s areas of clinical excellence are heart and vascular, cancer care, neurosciences, surgery, pediatric orthopedics and sports medicine, neonatology, and obstetrics and gynecology.

Dr. P. Phillips Hospital opens new patient tower

11/14/2008 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, Fla. (November 13, 2008) --- Brick by brick, stone by stone, Dr. P. Phillips Hospital has grown every step of the way along side the community to meet the needs of Southwest Orlando residents and the surrounding tourism area. To keep pace with the rapid growth and demand for health care services, Dr. Phillips Hospital will open a new five-story patient tower adding capacity for 142 additional patient rooms and enhanced medical services. Clinicians will begin treating patients in the new tower on Monday, November 17.

Steve Graffham, Winter Park Photography

The new patient tower includes: 46 intensive care unit private rooms; 48 progressive care unit private rooms; space for 48 medical surgical beds; eight surgical suites; five cardiac catheterization rooms; an infusion therapy area; an 80-seat outpatient diagnostics services waiting area; a 70-seat surgical waiting area; expanded imaging and non-invasive diagnostics departments; and expanded support departments.

“For nearly 23 years providing medical care has always been a privilege and a passion for our team members.” said Mark Schaefer, chief operating officer, Dr. Phillips Hospital. “The new patient tower is one more milestone in our continuing efforts to provide world-class health care to our neighbors in the Southwest community and out-of-town guests. Our new patient tower reflects today’s needs while allowing for room to continue growing with our community.

The new construction reflects more than an additional 315,000 square feet of space. The new patient tower was designed with warm hues and tones and soft lighting. Artwork, furnishings and other decor reflect elements of nature along with a harmonious blend of natural materials like marble, stone and bamboo flooring creating a more relaxing atmosphere for health and healing. Each area was planned with the patient in mind to enhance their experience. For example, the infusion therapy area, for patients who visit the hospital on a frequent basis for special, extensive treatment such as chemotherapy, features 12 outpatient bays overlooking a terrace and walled garden. The reception area includes a faux fireplace and large, flat screen television so families can also wait comfortably.

Several key design elements were incorporated in expansion plans to enhance the patient experience, including the centralized location of patient registration, outpatient services such as cardiac catheterizations and endoscopy, and inpatient surgery, forming a one-stop-shop convenience for patients and their families. Also, the new patient care units feature a nursing sub-station per two rooms, allowing clinicians to enter orders and access critical information closer to bedside.

Another addition to the patient experience is the Skylight ACCESS system. A feature in each room, this technology directly connects patients to staff, customized health information, education and interactive services from the bedside.

“Hospital stays can bring anxiety and stress for patients and families as they face medical conditions,” said Phyllis Byles, chief nursing officer, Dr. Phillips Hospital. “In addition to providing excellent clinical care we want to help them overcome those feelings by offering in-room technology to help communicate more efficiently with staff about needs, learn more about health matters and enjoy high-speed Internet, email and other entertainment options like movies, music and games.

The new tower expansion compliments previous projects and enhancements including a 44-bed emergency department, a chest pain center, a stroke center, and advance diagnostic imaging and cardiac diagnostic technology, including a 64-slice CT scanner.

Dr. Phillips Hospital services also include a wound care center, a multiple sclerosis comprehensive care center and Campisi Health Centers, a medically-based wellness program focusing on health, weight loss and lifestyle changes. Also, the Cynthia C. and William E. Perry Pavilion, a two-story hospitality home within the hospital, offers lodging for families of patients from outside the Orlando area.

Dr. Phillips Hospital opened as Orlando Regional Sand Lake Hospital in December 10, 1985 to provide quality medical care to Southwest neighborhoods and the tourism corridor. From the beginning, a supportive, people-centered environment was built in the plans.

“. . . Sand Lake Hospital was designed with the patient in mind,” said John Hillenmeyer, Orlando Health president/CEO, about the hospital’s opening in 1985. At the time, he was senior vice president responsible for the hospital project. “We sought advice from many patients, doctors and nurses before we allowed the architect to draw a line.”

Since that time, doctors and team members have treated more than 2.5 million inpatients, outpatients and emergency department patients. Today more than 1,000 employees and 300 physicians work together to manage over 12,000 admissions and nearly 90,000 emergency department visits each year.

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About Orlando Health

ORMC Trauma Center Granted $500,000 Gift

10/31/2008 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, FL - (October 27, 2008) - A local philanthropist has pledged $500,000 to Orlando Health`s Orlando Regional Medical Center. The pledge, made by Lori Gardner Sommer, will be used to help support expansion of the hospital`s Emergency Department and Level One Trauma Center. ORMC is home to the only Level One Trauma Center in the region.

"I am extremely pleased to be able to provide this support to a service that is critical to the health and welfare of the entire central Florida community," said Lori Gardner Sommer. "From my time as a volunteer in ORMC`s Emergency Department and Trauma Center, I witnessed first-hand the amazing, life-saving work performed there. I know the funds will be used well to serve this growing need in our community."

Ms. Sommer began volunteering at ORMC following a medical scare of her own. She had been diagnosed with non-Hodgkin`s lymphoma in 2003 and successfully treated at Orlando Health`s MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando. Today, her cancer remains in remission. In addition to serving as a volunteer, Ms. Sommer has also participated with the Women Playing for T. I. M. E. (Technology, Immediate diagnosis, Mammography, Education) program, which raises funds for breast cancer. She is currently serving as a committee member for Orlando Health Foundation`s ONE NIGHT event, which raises awareness and funds for the Level One Trauma Center.

In recognition of the gift, ORMC renamed the Emergency Department`s central desk the Gardner Sommer Family Central Desk. The central desk is the location from which emergency and trauma physicians, nurses and clinical staff coordinate patient care.

"This gift will have a major impact on the expansion of our trauma and emergency services," said Sherrie Sitarik, executive vice president of Orlando Health and president of Orlando Regional Medical Center/Orlando Regional Lucerne Hospital. "The number of trauma patients treated at ORMC has tripled over 10 years and the number of emergency patients also continues to rise. This gift will help us continue to meet the community`s expanding need for emergency and trauma care."

About Orlando Health

Orlando Health is a $1.5 billion not-for-profit health care organization and a community-based network of nine hospitals and care centers in the Orlando region. The organization, which includes the area`s only Level One Trauma Centers for adults and pediatrics, is a statutory teaching hospital system that offers both specialty and community hospitals. They are: Orlando Regional Medical Center; Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children; Winnie Palmer Hospital for Women & Babies; Lucerne Hospital; Dr. P. Phillips Hospital; South Seminole Hospital; South Lake Hospital (50 percent partnership); St. Cloud Regional Medical Center (20 percent partnership) and MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando - the first affiliate of one of the nation`s premier cancer centers The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando in Houston. Orlando Health`s areas of clinical excellence are heart and vascular, cancer care, neurosciences, surgery, pediatric orthopedics and sports medicine, neonatology, and obstetrics and gynecology.

Women Playing for T.I.M.E. Raises $600,000 this Year for

10/30/2008 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, Fla. (October 28, 2008) – Women Playing for T.I.M.E.™ (Technology, Immediate Diagnosis, Mammography and Education) has raised $600,000 this year for breast cancer research and programs at MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando. The announcement was made during the all-women volunteer group’s 16th anniversary charity golf tournament in late October. Since 1993, Women Playing for T.I.M.E. (WPFT) has raised more than $7 million for breast cancer research and programs at the center, averaging $500,000 a year.

The ladies encouraged their friends, family and neighbors to make donations to WPFT, and take a swing against the disease that has plagued so many of their lives. “It is truly amazing the impact that this group has had on the cancer community here in Central Florida,” said Elaine Lustig, co-founder of WPFT. “Our fundraising and public awareness efforts over the past 16 years have led to better treatment of women suffering from cancer, and programs that support women during their battle with this disease and Women Playing for T.I.M.E. is not slowing down.”

This year, as in past years, the husbands of Women Playing for T.I.M.E. members were also active in supporting the cause. Instead of grabbing their clubs though, husbands hopped behind the wheel and drove the drink carts around the golf course during the tournament. All tips collected on the drink carts were donated to Women Playing for T.I.M.E. and in addition, husbands matched the tips and donated additional dollars to the cause.

Funds from WPFT have helped the facility acquire a Helical Tomotherapy radiation machine, establish a state-of-the-art breast cancer screening, diagnostic and treatment center, and develop numerous educational outreach programs. The ladies also created Harriett’s, a free boutique at MD Anderson – Orlando where their breast cancer patients can find health and beauty products.

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MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando, part of Orlando Health, is affiliated with The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando in Houston. U.S. News & World Report recently ranked MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando as the top cancer treatment center in the U.S. and has ranked it as one of the top two cancer centers for the past 13 years. Orlando Health, a 1,780-bed community-owned, Florida not-for-profit organization established in 1918, annually serves nearly 2 million Central Florida residents and more than 4,500 international patients. More information is available at www.mdandersonorlando.org.

Orlando Health Receives $2.25 Million NIH Grant to Study Traumatic Brain Injury

10/6/2008 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, Fla. (October 6, 2008) — The National Institutes of Health recently awarded a $2.25 million grant to Orlando Health to study traumatic brain injury (TBI). Linda Papa, MD, director of academic clinical research and an emergency medicine physician at Orlando Regional Medical Center (ORMC), is the grant recipient and lead investigator in a study that will be conducted at ORMC’s Level One Trauma Center to evaluate more efficient and effective tools to diagnose TBI in trauma patients.

“Both the Centers for Disease Control and National Institutes for Health have recognized that traumatic brain injury is a disorder of major public health significance,” said Dr. Papa. “Research in the TBI field has long been dominated by research on severe brain injury. However, of the estimated two million people in the United States who sustain a traumatic brain injury each year, nearly 90 percent will have either a “moderate” or “mild” injury - far outnumbering severe injuries.”

Despite many years of research, there are no blood tests commercially available to diagnose TBI. The proposed study will work to assess a blood test to detect biomarkers (substances that are not normally present in blood but are released from the brain after it has been damaged) that doctors could use to diagnose and treat patients after they have suffered a traumatic injury to the head. These biomarkers could potentially indicate the seriousness of a head injury. The grant will support an investigator-initiated study that will begin at the end of 2008 and continue for five years.

“The goal of this study is to provide a blood test that could be used immediately after injury to diagnose and treat patients with traumatic brain injury,” said Dr. Papa. “Ultimately, we hope this proposal will provide physicians and researchers the tools they need to improve patient care and long-term outcome in patients with traumatic brain injury.”

Close to 1,000 traumatic brain injury cases of all severities are treated annually at the ORMC Level One Trauma Center, Greater Orlando’s only Level One Trauma Center.

About Orlando Health

ORMC is at the front of hip replacements

10/3/2008 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, Fla. (September 26, 2008) — Hip replacement surgery at Orlando Regional Medical Center (ORMC), part of Orlando Health, is taking a new direction. An innovative technique that replaces the hip from a front incision, instead of the traditional side approach, is helping patients recover easier and faster. Mark Munro, MD, an orthopedic traumatologist at the Orlando Health Orthopedic Faculty Practice, is currently the only surgeon in Greater Orlando who is trained and performing the anterior approach for hip replacement.

The tissue sparing anterior approach hip replacement has numerous benefits. Using a special surgical table and instrumentation Dr. Munro makes a small incision, typically 3 1/2 inches, at the front of the thigh to replace the hip joint. Because the hip is replaced through a natural space between muscles, there is no need to cut the muscles to gain access to the hip, as done in traditional methods.

“Separating instead of cutting muscle and soft tissue results in a faster recovery, less pain and a low risk of dislocation,” said Dr. Munro. “Because the muscles are left undisturbed, patients are not only back on their feet much faster, but they also do not have the movement precautions as with traditional hip replacement surgeries. Often times patients are discharged within a couple of days.”

Traditional hip replacement surgery typically requires a four to five day hospital stay and requires strict precautions, limiting hip motion for up to three months after surgery, impacting common daily activities such as sitting in a chair or a car and tying your shoes.

Another benefit of the anterior approach is the patient positioning allows the surgeon to match the leg lengths.

“X-rays are used in surgery to verify leg length and position the hip implants precisely,” said Dr. Munro.

More than 230,000 hip replacement procedures are performed annually in the United States. The most common reason for hip replacement is osteoarthritis in the hip joint.

For additional information about the procedure, contact the Orlando Health Orthopedic Faculty Practice at 407.649.6878.

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About Orlando Health

Central Florida Panera Bread Honors MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando and National Breast Cancer Awareness Month with Pink Ribbon Bagels

10/2/2008 12:00:00 AM

Orlando, FL – October 1, 2008 –During the month of October Central Florida Panera Bread stores are inviting its customers to join in the fight against breast cancer by purchasing a Signature Pink Ribbon Bagelâ for breakfast. A portion of the proceeds from each Pink Ribbon Bagelâ sold will go to support the MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando. Last year the promotion raised $25,000.

Nationally, Panera Bread is proud to donate a portion of the proceeds from each Pink Ribbon Bagelâ sold to a variety of breast cancer causes in their local communities where Panera Bread locations are found.

The Panera Pink Ribbon Bagelâ is baked fresh daily at Panera Bread bakery-cafes and features cherry chips, dried cherries and cranberries, vanilla, honey and brown sugar. The product follows the tradition of ‘thinking pink’ during the month of October in the quest to eradicate breast cancer disease. Sue Stees, one of Panera Bread’s first franchisees and a breast cancer survivor, developed the idea for the Pink Ribbon Bagel in 2001 as a way to help support the cause.

“Panera Bread is committed to serving the members of the local community, many of whom have had their lives touched by breast cancer,” said Annette Ford, Central Florida Panera Bread store owner. “We are honored to support MD Anderson – Orlando in the fight to find a cure for breast cancer.”

Panera Bread and its franchisees also support charitable causes through its Operation Dough-Nation® program. Since it was founded in 1992 to formalize Panera’s commitment to community involvement, Operation Dough-Nation has contributed both monetary and bread donations through its Community Breadbox™ and Day-End Dough-Nation™ programs to local food pantries, hunger relief agencies and other community organizations.

M. D. Anderson Cancer Center Orlando, part of Orlando Regional Healthcare, is affiliated with The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando in Houston. U.S. News & World Report recently ranked MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando as the top cancer treatment center in the U.S. and has ranked it as one of the top two cancer centers for the past 13 years. Orlando Health, a 1,780-bed community-owned, Florida not-for-profit organization established in 1918, annually serves nearly 2 million Central Florida residents and more than 4,500 international patients. More information is available at www.mdandersonorlando.org.

Panera Bread owns and franchises bakery-cafés under the Panera Bread and Saint Louis Bread Company names. The company is the market leader in the emerging specialty bread/café category due to its unique bread combined with a quick, casual dining experience. Panera Bread and Saint Louis Bread Company operates 1,185 bakery-cafes in 40 states, 510 are company-owned and 675 are franchised. Additional information is available on the company’s website, www.panerabread.com.

Orlando Regional Medical Center Wins Consumer Choice Award

10/1/2008 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, FL - (October 1, 2008) -- Orlando Regional Medical Center, part of Orlando Health, has been named a winner of the 2008/2009 Consumer Choice Award. The award is based on independent research conducted by the National Research Corporation (NRC), a leader in healthcare performance measurement and improvement. NRC research found that consumers in the greater Orlando area ranked Orlando Regional Medical Center among the very best hospitals in Florida based on four metrics: best overall quality, best image and reputation, best doctors and best nurses.

"We are extremely pleased to be recognized as one of the top hospitals in our area by members of the communities we serve," said Sherrie Sitarik, Executive Vice President of Orlando Health and President of Orlando Regional Medical Center/Orlando Regional Lucerne Hospital. "Our goal is to meet and exceed expectations each day. This award is another important recognition for our professionals in their efforts to provide excellent care."

Winners of the annual Consumer Choice Award are selected from the NRC Healthcare Market Guide, a comprehensive, nationwide consumer health care profile. Its data represents consumer surveys from over 200,000 households across the United States. Locally, data from more than 1,403 households in Orange, Osceola, Seminole and Lake Counties is represented in the survey.

ORMC`s receipt of the Consumer Choice Award reinforces the findings of an earlier NRC + Picker study released in March of this year. In that study, Orlando Health`s overall hospital rating was the highest of all hospitals in the four-county central Florida area. The Hospital Consumer Assessment of Healthcare Providers and Services survey, or HCAHPS for short, was the first nationally standardized, inpatient satisfaction survey of hospitals.

The results showed that Orlando Health out-performed all hospitals in the four-county area in the following categories -- overall rating, would recommend, communication with doctors, communication about medicines and room quietness. Survey results also showed that patients would rate Orlando Health a nine or 10 on a scale where 10 is the best hospital possible.

About Orlando Health

Orlando Health is a $1.5 billion not-for-profit health care organization and a community-based network of nine hospitals and care centers in the Orlando region. The organization, which includes the area`s only Level One Trauma Centers for adults and pediatrics, is a statutory teaching hospital system that offers both specialty and community hospitals. They are: Orlando Regional Medical Center; Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children; Winnie Palmer Hospital for Women & Babies; Lucerne Hospital; Dr. P. Phillips Hospital; South Seminole Hospital; South Lake Hospital (50 percent partnership); St. Cloud Regional Medical Center (20 percent partnership) and MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando - the first affiliate of one of the nation`s premier cancer centers The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando in Houston. Orlando Health`s areas of clinical excellence are heart and vascular, cancer care, neurosciences, surgery, pediatric orthopedics and sports medicine, neonatology, and obstetrics and gynecology.

Orlando Health Names Mildred Beam Vice President, General Counsel

9/25/2008 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, FL (September 24, 2008) - Mildred Beam, Esquire will join Orlando Health as vice president, general counsel effective September 29. Ms. Beam will be responsible for the management of all legal affairs at Orlando Health including federal and state regulatory compliance, corporate business matters, transactional law, patient care, employment, real estate, liability and insurance, construction and medical affairs. In addition to providing legal counsel to the organization, she will initiate, direct and supervise all legal services provided to Orlando Health by both employed and external attorneys.

Ms. Beam is an accomplished attorney with significant expertise in legal issues affecting the healthcare industry including physician recruitment and self-referral (Stark - Florida Patient Self-Referral Act), fraud and abuse (Anti-Kickback Statute and Florida Patient Brokering Act), HIPAA, electronic medical records, end of life decisions, managed care issues, Joint Commission of Accreditation of Health Care Organizations preparedness, and clinical research (including clinical trials, informed consent, Institutional Review Board representation, and federal regulations relating to research).

Prior to joining Orlando Health, Ms. Beam served as the senior managing attorney for Adventist Health`s Florida Hospital Division where she provided oversight of the organization`s legal services, managed litigation and provided input and oversight of other legal matters. She was also a shareholder with Mateer & Harbert, P.A. in Orlando where she practiced in the areas of health, general corporate and tax law. She also practiced health law as an attorney with Shear, Newman, Hahn & Rosenkranz, P.A., and Shackleford, Farrior, Stallings & Evans, P.A. in Tampa, Florida.

In June 2008, Ms. Beam was named a Florida Super Lawyer in Health Care Law. Super Lawyers is a listing of outstanding lawyers from more than 70 practice areas who have attained a high degree of peer recognition and professional achievement. She was also recognized as one of Orlando`s "Women Who Mean Business" by the Orlando Business Journal in 2002 and an "Outstanding Woman in Medicine" by Florida Medical Business in 2001.

She serves on the Executive Council of the Florida Bar Health Law Section, is a member of the American Health Lawyers Association, the African American Chamber of Commerce (Orlando), the American Bar Association and an advisor to the National Deaf Dance Theatre. Ms. Beam is also a licensed CPA in the state of Maryland.

Ms. Beam graduated Summa Cum Laude from Howard University with a B.B.A. in accounting and earned her J.D. from the Georgetown University Law Center.

MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando Earns Prestigious Accreditation

8/25/2008 12:00:00 AM

Orlando, FL, August 11, 2008 -- The residency program in Radiation Oncology Physics at M. D. Anderson Cancer Center Orlando, part of Orlando Health, has been granted accreditation by the Commission on Accreditation of Medical Physics Education Programs, Inc. (CAMPEP). With the honor, MD Anderson – Orlando now becomes only the second facility in Florida and the 23^rd in all of North America to receive the prestigious endorsement.

“We are extremely pleased to have earned this accreditation,” said Thomas Wagner, Ph.D. director of the Residency in Radiation Oncology Physics program. “It is tangible evidence that our residency program meets and exceeds standards for clinical training and educational achievement within the industry.”

The accreditation comes at a critical time for residents, MD Anderson – Orlando, the greater Orlando community and the nation. Beginning in 2012, all physicists who enter the radiation oncology field must graduate from an accredited graduate degree program, and in 2014, graduation from an accredited post-graduate residency program will be an entry requirement as well. With fewer than 25 accredited programs in existence in the U.S. and Canada, meeting the nationwide demand for radiation oncology physicists will be a challenge.

“There is a tremendous shortage of radiation physicists across the nation,” said Dr. Wagner. “We expect this accreditation will help lessen the shortage for Central Florida by providing residents with a recognized and qualified facility for training. It will help us recruit top residents to MD Anderson – Orlando, and we know that residents tend to stay and practice in the areas in which they are trained.”

CAMPEP has granted full accreditation to MD Anderson – Orlando program. Full accreditation is effective for five years and indicates a program that is substantially compliant with CAMPEP standards which review residency program evolution and history; structure and governance; curriculum; resident admission, recruitment, enrollment, evaluation, orientation and safety; program administration; resources and future plans.

CAMPEP is sponsored by the American Association of Physicists in Medicine, the American College of Radiology, the American College of Medical Physics, and the Canadian College of Physicists in Medicine.

About Orlando Health

Orlando Health is a $1.5 billion not-for-profit health care organization and a community-based network of nine hospitals and care centers in the Orlando region. The organization, which includes the area’s only Level One Trauma Centers for adults and pediatrics, is a statutory teaching hospital system that offers both specialty and community hospitals. They are: Orlando Regional Medical Center; Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children; Winnie Palmer Hospital for Women & Babies; Lucerne Hospital; Dr. P. Phillips Hospital; South Seminole Hospital; South Lake Hospital (50 percent partnership); St. Cloud Regional Medical Center (20 percent partnership) and MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando – the first affiliate of one of the nation’s premier cancer centers The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando in Houston. Orlando Health’s areas of clinical excellence are heart and vascular, cancer care, neurosciences, surgery, pediatric orthopedics and sports medicine, neonatology, and obstetrics and gynecology.

Orlando Health awarded certificate of need to establish a heart transplant program

8/23/2008 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, Fla. (August 22, 2008) --- Taking another step forward to meet the needs of our community, today Orlando Health was awarded a certificate of need by the state’s Agency for Healthcare Administration (AHCA) to establish a heart transplantation program at Orlando Regional Medical Center (ORMC).

“We are extremely pleased that AHCA has awarded a heart transplant CON to Orlando Health,” said Beth Boyer-Kollas, MS, MDiv, Ph. D, CAAP, administrator of business development/strategy for ORMC and Lucerne Hospital. “With the addition of a heart transplant program at ORMC, this community will have a complete continuum of cardiovascular care (from birth to adulthood), all within one organization. This continuum of care makes it easier for patients to be followed and successfully treated for a wide range of cardiac conditions, up to and including a heart transplant, if they need it.”

Orlando Regional Medical Center’s cardiac program is well positioned to support a heart transplantation program. Javier Lafuente, MD, joined ORMC’s staff in July of this year as the academic chair of Cardiovascular Surgery and is actively assessing staffing needs to officially assemble the heart transplant team.

In addition to providing clinical expertise in cardiology and a Level One Trauma Center, ORMC is the area’s only statutory teaching hospital and one of only six in the State of Florida. The organization also has critical partnerships with organ procurement and other community health organizations which make for a natural progression to support a heart transplantation program.

Orlando Health has a longstanding history as a pioneer in health care services in the community. In cardiovascular care, ORMC was the first hospital in Central Florida to perform open-heart surgery and cardiac catheterization.

About Orlando Health

Orlando Health is a $1.5 billion not-for-profit health care organization and a community-based network of nine hospitals and care centers in the Orlando region. The organization, which includes the area’s only Level One Trauma Centers for adults and pediatrics, is a statutory teaching hospital system that offers both specialty and community hospitals. They are: Orlando Regional Medical Center; Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children; Winnie Palmer Hospital for Women & Babies; Lucerne Hospital; Dr. P. Phillips Hospital; South Seminole Hospital; South Lake Hospital (50 percent partnership); St. Cloud Regional Medical Center (20 percent partnership) and MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando – the first affiliate of one of the nation’s premier cancer centers The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando in Houston. Orlando Health’s areas of clinical excellence are heart and vascular, cancer care, neurosciences, surgery, pediatric orthopedics and sports medicine, neonatology, and obstetrics and gynecology.

Orlando Health earns second Employer of Choice® Recognition

8/1/2008 12:00:00 AM

Orlando, Fla. (August 1, 2008) --- For a second time, Orlando Health has been recognized for its demonstrated dedication to a higher level of employee relationships. The health care organization of nine hospitals and care centers has been named “Employer of Choice®” by the Herman Group for going above and beyond normal practices of human resources. Orlando Health first received the designation in 2005 when it became the first organization to receive the designation for a two-year period.

“We are very pleased to once again be selected as an Employer of Choice,” says Nancy Dinon, vice president, Human Resources. “Orlando Health continues to offer a work environment where our team members care about each other just as much as they care for the needs of our patients and their families.”

The Employer of Choice® designation reflects the philosophies and testimonials defined in the book How to Become an Employer of Choice, written by Roger Herman and Joyce Gioia. The book examines ways employers can differentiate themselves from others by recruiting, optimizing, and holding on to their greatest asset ? their employees.

Orlando Health received this designation after successfully completing an application and evaluation process. Organizations earning the Employer of Choice® designation qualify by scoring among the top 10 percent of employers in various categories including the culture, care of people, growth and opportunities, employee loyalty and performance results.

Orlando Health has several initiatives in place to support team members’ professional and personal development, including education and training programs; communications forums; mind, body and spirit wellness programs; community outreach opportunities and recognition programs.

“Employers of Choice®, such as Orlando Health, who are able to attract, optimize, and retain top talent, will enjoy a substantial advantage over their competitors,” says Gioia, President of Employer of Choice, Inc. “They will have the knowledge, experience, resiliency, and power to respond quickly to their customers’ needs, delivering what customers want more efficiently and effectively than competitors plagued by employee turnover. This strength will allow them to maintain high levels of customer service and loyalty.”

About Orlando Health

New Approach to Spine Surgery Offers New Relief for Back and Leg Pain

7/28/2008 12:00:00 AM

Media Contact:

Lori Carton
407.254.4058
Dr.Goll@orlandoortho.com

ORLANDO, Fla. (July 25, 2008) — A new angle in spinal surgery is providing relief for the 10 million adults who suffer from chronic back and leg pain each year. Stephen R. Goll, MD, an Orthopaedic Surgeon with Orlando Orthopaedic Center who practices at Orlando Regional Medical Center, is performing a new minimally disruptive procedure, called eXtreme Lateral Interbody Fusion (XLIF®).

“Unlike traditional back surgery, the XLIF surgery accesses the spine through the patient’s side, or laterally, at a 90 degree angle to the spine,” Dr. Goll explained. “The XLIF surgery is less painful with much less recovery time. Patients are often walking within one to two days, with a typical four- to six-week recovery rather than the traditional six months or more of recovery following a traditional or “open” back surgery.”

The XLIF surgical procedure employs NuVasive®’s minimally disruptive instrumentation. NuVasive’s MaXcess® retractor system allows the surgeon the necessary surgical access with minimal disruption of surrounding tissue, while the NeuroVision® JJB System uses “real-time feedback” electromyography, or EMG, to enable the surgeon to avoid nerves during spine surgery. This approach provides greater access to the spine, better visualization during surgery, less tissue disruption and blood loss, and faster patient recovery times.

Jennifer Aldana, an Orlando resident, had suffered excruciating back pain for 19 years. Before the XLIF, Ms. Aldana tried a variety of traditional treatments including pain medication, physical therapy and epidural steroid injections to no avail. Just weeks after XLIF surgery, Jennifer was pain free, able to bend down to pick up her 4-year-old daughter and resume her hobbies, which include swimming and aerobics.

“I could not have imagined continuing to live with my back and leg pain at such young age,” said Ms. Aldana. “Thankfully today I am able to walk long distances, swim at the beach, bike ride and visit area theme parks with my little girl.”

Please visit our media photo gallery for additional images.

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About Dr. Goll and Orlando Orthopaedic Center

Dr. Stephen R. Goll is located at Orlando Orthopaedic Center, 100 W. Gore St., Suite 500, Orlando, FL 32806, 407-254-2500, www.orlandoortho.com. Orlando Orthopaedic Center was established in 1972. The practice has 14 fellowship-trained physicians and surgeons which offer complete and comprehensive care of all orthopaedic needs including spine, joint replacement, hand and wrist, podiatric foot and ankle, pediatrics, sports medicine and orthopaedic oncology in 5 offices throughout Central Florida. Orlando Orthopaedic Center was voted “Best Orthopaedic Practice” in Central Florida in 2004 by Florida Medical Business.

About Orlando Health

ORMC heart doctors and surgeons diagnose with latest breakthrough in 3D cardiac imaging

7/28/2008 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, Fla. (July 28, 2008) — Cardiologists and cardiac surgeons at Orlando Regional Medical Center (ORMC), a part of Orlando Health, can virtually hold a patient’s heart in their hands with detailed images that capture an up-close look of the size, shape and function of the heart. The Philips iE33 cardiac ultrasound system uses 3-D technology to take digital pictures from either outside or inside the chest area. This latest, state-of-the-art technology can more quickly and more clearly reveal conditions like congestive heart failure, mitral valve prolapse, damage after a heart attack, valve tears, abnormal blood flow or aneurysms. ORMC is the first in Greater Orlando to use the advanced diagnostic tool.

Performed in ORMC’s Echocardiogram Lab, an echocardiogram, which involves a sonographer moving a transducer probe across a patient’s chest area to capture images, needs only four beats of the heart from one side of the chest to deliver unparalleled heart information. With traditional 2-D technology sonographers take eight different images from three different areas outside the chest to get views of the heart.

“Echocardiograms, which show heart chambers, valves, vessels and the sack around the heart, are a significant tool in detecting heart conditions,” said Aurelio Duran, MD, cardiologist and cardiology chair, Orlando Regional Medical Center, cardiologist at ORMC. “This type of 3-D technology takes ultrasound to the next level. Instead of one, sliced 2-D image of the heart, we are able to see multiple functions, multiple views and multiple angles. This allows us to observe the heart in a more accurate light. We can provide answers sooner and help patients visualize their condition for better understanding.”

Armed with an extremely high level of diagnostic information, doctors are able to not only diagnose and begin treatment options sooner but also measure the effectiveness of the chosen treatment.

“For example in certain conditions, a pacemaker may be the best option to regulate a patient’s heart,” said Dr. Duran. “We can use this same diagnostic technology to measure how effective the pacemaker is by rechecking the heart’s function after implant.”

In addition to cardiologists using the technology to examine the heart from the outside, cardiac surgeons can use a transesophageal echocardiogram, which involves the passage of a small tube inserted in the esophagus to determine the best type of open-heart procedure before surgery begins.

“This advanced technology offers significant pre-surgical benefits,” said Jeffrey Bott, MD, cardiac surgeon at ORMC. “We are able to obtain a closer look from inside a patient’s chest cavity to help determine if a valve repair or replacement is needed. The difference in repairing a valve versus replacing a valve could mean less recovery time for a patient and also prevents long-term need for certain medication therapies.”

ORMC’s Echocardiogram Lab performs over 15.000 echocardiograms per year. Echocardiograms are the second most used diagnostic exams, following EKGs.

Please visit our media photo gallery for additional images.

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About Orlando Health

ORMC First in Orlando to Use New Heart Stent

7/14/2008 12:00:00 AM

Orlando, Fla. (July 9, 2008) --- Orlando Regional Medical Center is the first hospital in Orlando to use the PROMUS™ Everolimus-Eluting Coronary Stent - the newest drug-coated stent from Boston Scientific Corporation - to treat heart disease, the nation’s No. 1 cause of death. Recently approved by the FDA, the PROMUS Stent has been used outside the United States for over two years.

“Bringing the most advanced medical technologies to our community directly supports our mission to provide outstanding cardiac care to patients,” said Robert P. Dalton, MD, interventional cardiologist and medical director of ORMC Cardiac Cath Lab. “Early adoption of the PROMUS Stent strengthens our commitment to offer advanced treatments to patients in Greater Orlando and our surrounding communities. We anticipate improved, longer lasting results with the new stent.”

While the use of stents, one of the most significant technology innovations to treat heart disease, is a well-established practice, the new stent features a unique design. The PROMUS Stent is in a new class of drug-coated heart stents made from cobalt chromium. Cobalt chromium allows for thinner metal struts that make the stent more flexible and easier for doctors to implant.

“With the addition of the PROMUS Stent, we’re giving doctors even more options in drug coatings, stent size and strut design so they can customize treatment to individual patient needs,” said Hank Kucheman, president of Boston Scientific`s Interventional Cardiology business. “With excellent clinical results and positive patient outcomes in Europe, we’re excited to bring the PROMUS Stent to U.S. facilities that provide best-in-class patient care.”

Please visit our Media Gallery for more photos.

About Orlando Health

About Boston Scientific

Boston Scientific is a worldwide developer, manufacturer and marketer of medical devices whose products are used in a broad range of interventional medical specialties. For more information, please visit: www.bostonscientific.com.

ORMC joins study to test MRI compatible pacemaker

6/27/2008 12:00:00 AM

Orlando, Fla. (May 30, 2008) --- Cardiologists at Orlando Regional Medical Center (ORMC), a part of Orlando Health, are testing technology that may make it easier to take a look inside patients who have been unable to have potentially life-saving diagnostic MRI scans because of their pacemakers. ORMC is the first in Florida to join an international study to evaluate Medtronic’s EnRhythm® MRI SureScan™ pacing system.

“Though millions of MRI scans are used each year to diagnose and treat problems, the view of heart patients with pacemakers has been limited because of safety concerns for interactions between the MRI’s electromagnetic radiofrequency field and pacemaker components,” explains David Bello, MD, interventional electrophysiologist and ORMC’s medical director of diagnostic cardiology and principal investigator for the study. “Unfortunately up to 75 percent of pacemaker patients will also need an MRI at some point in their lifetime to diagnose a health condition. MRI safety has great clinical importance.”

For patients with pacemakers MRIs are not allowed because the magnet can interrupt the pacing and prevent the output of pacemakers, causing improper heart rhythm. Also, tips of the wires used to connect the device to the heart can heat up during the scan and burn heart tissue. Medtronic’s pacemaker includes modified hardware designed to minimize the energy transmitted and also eliminates the impact of electrical noise from the MRI, which can result in pacemaker malfunctions.

The clinical trial, a prospective, randomized controlled, unblinded study will assess the safety of the pacing system during MRI scans and the effectiveness following the diagnostic tests. Patients needing a pacemaker will be implanted with the new Medtronic device and will later receive an MRI.

“This trial is important in helping determine if patients with permanent pacemakers will be able to undergo routine MRI testing,” said Dr. Bello. “MRI scans are an important tool in helping doctors diagnose problems with the heart, the nervous system and other organs throughout the body and develop treatment plans. An MRI compatible pacemaker will widen the spectrum of diagnostic opportunities.”

While other technology exists, such as computed tomography (CT) imaging, MRIs are generally better for examining the brain, joints, heart and other organs.

For more information about the trial, contact Dr. Bello at Mid-Florida Cardiology Specialists 407-351-5384, ext 2154.

About Orlando Health

ORMC heart patients get a key to Boston Scientific’s Stentplus™ Patient Success Program

6/27/2008 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, Fla. (June 27, 2008) — To give heart patients a post-surgical course in staying healthier, Orlando Regional Medical Center (ORMC), a part of Orlando Health, has joined Boston Scientific in its Stentplus Patient Success Program. In addition to the prescribed medicine therapy, typically aspirin and anti-clotting therapy, patients receive information for better understanding of self-care after they have had a drug-eluting stent placed. The program offers various tools to keep patients motivated and mindful of medicine schedules, an important factor in maintaining their improved health.

“Patient education is important in the continuity of care,” said Dana Wilson, RN, BSN, ORMC Cath Lab manager. “ORMC’s Cath Lab team and doctors begin patient education immediately after a drug-eluting stent is placed and it is continued in our recovery areas and patient care units.”

Connecting patients with the Stentplus program is a unique opportunity to reinforce the importance of medication.

“We want patients to know that while they have been given a new lease on life with a drug-eluting stent placed, and though they may go home after a short hospital stay, feeling better and returning to their normal activities, it is still important to remember to take medicine as prescribed,” said Sita S. Price, ARNP, FNP-BC, nurse practitioner, ORMC cardiology. “Research shows following the prescribed medicine regimen is critical to positive outcomes. Sharing the Stentplus program is one way to help reinforce this practice.”

It is not uncommon for patients to forget to take their medication on time or to not remember to take it on vacation or to forget to renew their prescription. Others may face the choice of which medications to buy because of costs, or take less then their prescribed dose to make the prescription last longer.

The Stentplus Program works to overcome these obstacles on a number of fronts. Educational materials are initially provided to patients in a take-home kit at discharge. The program materials are designed to be easy to understand for patients, caregivers and family members. They include: answers to common questions about drug-eluting stents and dual anti-platelet therapy, a DVD covering treatment options and post care, medication and prescription reminder tools and a wallet card about the duration and dose of their prescribed medication. The program also provides helpful information about financial assistance opportunities to help cover prescription costs.

The Stentplus Program is sponsored by Boston Scientific and is available at not cost to patients regardless of the brand of drug-eluting stent received. The program has been reviewed and endorsed by the Society for Cardiovascular Angiography and Interventions, the Association of Black Cardiologists and the American College of Cardiovascular Administrators. Additional information about the program is available at www.stentplus.com.

About Orlando Health

About Boston Scientific

Winnie Palmer Hospital Neonatologist Honored with Children’s Miracle Network’s Achievement Award

6/23/2008 12:00:00 AM

Orlando, FL (May 30, 2008) – For more than 30 years, Dr. Gregor Alexander has been caring for tiny, premature babies and seen many of them grow up, marry, have children of their own and even become neonatal intensive care nurses working along side him. He was honored with the 2008 Children’s Miracle Network Achievement Award for his dedication and devotion to premature infants and will be featured in the June 9 issue of U.S. News & World Report.

The award honors outstanding physicians and caregivers for their dedication to the care of children and for making medical miracles a reality. Dr. Alexander joined the staff of Orlando Health, formerly known as Orlando Regional Healthcare, in 1977 serving as the director of newborn services and then as the director of the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) from 1979 – 1995. Over the course of his 30 year career at Orlando Health he helped grow a 6-bed unit to the current 112-bed unit, which is the fourth largest in the country.

“We are very proud of Dr. Alexander for this accomplishment and are privileged to have had him with us for the past 30 years,” said John Bozard, president, Arnold Palmer Medical Center Foundation. “He has devoted his life to bringing the finest care to every baby he treats as if they were his own. He is well-known in our community for his care, expertise, love and commitment to his tiny patients and their families.”

Winnie Palmer Hospital for Women & Babies, supported by the Arnold Palmer Medical Center Foundation, is a 285-bed facility dedicated exclusively to the needs of women and babies. The hospital includes comprehensive fetal diagnostics and labor and delivery services, a regional center for neonatal intensive care, maternal intensive care and women’s services. Annually, more than 14,000 babies are expected to be born at Winnie Palmer Hospital, making it the busiest labor and delivery unit in the state of Florida. To learn more, visit www.winniepalmerhospital.org.

Orlando Regional Healthcare hires cardiothoracic surgeon

6/9/2008 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, Fla. (May 6, 2008) --- Orlando Regional Healthcare is strengthening its cardiac program to meet the community’s need in treating heart disease, our nation’s No. 1 killer. Javier A. Lafuente, MD, a distinguished heart transplant surgeon, will join Orlando Regional Medical Center’s (ORMC) medical education faculty in July as the academic chairman of Cardiothoracic Surgery. Dr. Lafuente most recently practiced at The Methodist Hospital System and Methodist DeBakey Heart and Vascular Center in Houston.

“The expertise of our cardiovascular team of surgeons and specialists enables us to be the cardiac care leader we are,” said Sherrie Sitarik, executive vice president of Orlando Regional Healthcare and president of ORMC/Orlando Regional Lucerne Hospital. “Dr. Lafuente’s extensive experience as a cardiothoracic surgeon and in performing heart transplants demonstrates our commitment and dedication to establishing a heart transplantation program at ORMC.” On April 17, 2008, Orlando Regional submitted a Letter of Intent to the state’s Agency for Healthcare Administration to establish a heart transplantation program at ORMC.

Dr. Lafuente has participated in more than 600 transplant surgeries. And, outside of the operating room, his 27-year medical career includes research, lectures, teaching and published journal articles.

His scope of research includes the artificial lung, total artificial heart, myocardial preservation and laser bronchoscopy. As a national and international lecturer, Dr. Lafuente has spoken about various topics including aortic dissection, thoracic trauma and cardioplegia. He has been published in several medical journals such as The Journal of Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery, The Journal of Heart and Lung Transplantation, Cardiovascular Surgery and Annals of Thoracic Surgery covering a range of subjects including myocardial revascularization, ventricular assist device and endocarditis.

Dr. Lafuente received a doctorate of medicine from the School of Medicine at the University of Costa Rica (UCR) in San Jose. He completed an internship and a thoracic and cardiovascular surgery residency at UCR Affiliated Hospitals. Dr. Lafuente also completed a cardiovascular surgery fellowship at Baylor College of Medicine/ The Methodist Hospital in Houston and thoracic and cardiovascular surgery and general surgery residencies at Baylor College of Medicine Affiliated Hospitals.

Board certified in thoracic surgery and surgery, Dr. Lafuente is a member of the American College of Surgeons (fellow), American Medical Association, Society of Thoracic Surgeons and International Society of Heart and Lung Transplantation.

About Orlando Regional Healthcare

Orlando Regional Healthcare is a $1.5 billion not-for-profit healthcare organization and a community-based network of nine hospitals and care centers in the Central Florida region. The facilities, which include the area’s only Level One Trauma Centers for adults and pediatrics, is a statutory teaching hospital system that offers both specialty and community hospitals. They are: Orlando Regional Medical Center; Orlando Regional Lucerne Hospital; Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children; Winnie Palmer Hospital for Women & Babies; Dr. P. Phillips Hospital; Orlando Regional South Seminole Hospital; South Lake Hospital (50 percent partnership); St. Cloud Regional Medical Center (20 percent partnership) and MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando – one of the nation’s premier cancer centers and the only one outside of Houston, Texas. Orlando Regional’s areas of clinical excellence are heart and vascular, cancer care, neurosciences, surgery, pediatric orthopedics and sports medicine, neonatology, and obstetrics and gynecology.

Orlando Regional Healthcare is Central Florida’s 5^th largest employer with nearly 14,000 employees and more than 2,000 affiliated physicians, all of whom support our philosophy of providing high quality care and service when it matters most. We prove this everyday with over 100,000 inpatient admissions and more than 600,000 outpatient visits each year. In all, Orlando Regional Healthcare serves 1.6 million Central Florida residents and nearly 3,000 international patients annually. Additionally, Orlando Regional Healthcare provides approximately $198 million in support of community health needs. More information can be found at www.orlandoregional.org

Arnold Palmer Hospital Ranks 26th in U.S.News & World Report`s 2008 Edition of America`s Best Children`s Hospitals

6/6/2008 12:00:00 AM

Orlando, FL - May 30, 2008 - Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children has been ranked 26th for heart and heart surgery in U.S. News & World Report`s 2008 edition of America`s Best Children`s Hospitals, published online at www.usnews.com/pediatrics and in the magazine`s June 9 issue, on newsstands Monday, June 2. Arnold Palmer Hospital is one of only two children`s hospitals in the state to be ranked and the only one in Central Florida.

In a further extension of the 2007 pediatric rankings that listed the top 30 pediatric centers overall, the 2008 America`s Best Children`s Hospitals now includes the 30-top ranked hospitals in cancer, digestive disorders, heart and heart surgery, neonatal care, neurology and neurosurgery, respiratory disorders, and general pediatrics.

"Very sick kids need very special care," said Senior Writer Avery Comarow, who has been editor of the America`s Best Hospitals and America`s Best Children`s Hospitals annual rankings since their inception. "The best places for them are pediatric facilities with a deep pool of expertise in their particular illness. Breaking out key specialties is crucial to help parents and other caregivers find these facilities."

The specialty rankings of this year`s America`s Best Children`s Hospitals were based on a new and improved methodology that weighed a three-part blend of reputation, outcome, and care-related measures such as nursing care, advanced technology, credentialing, and other factors. A detailed description of the methodology can be found online at www.usnews.com/pediatrics.

"We are very excited about being ranked as one of America`s best children`s hospital for heart and heart surgery," said John Bozard, president, Arnold Palmer Hospital. "We are very proud of our staff and physicians as they have been helping heal kids and save lives for nearly 20 years. It is nice to see them recognized for the extraordinary care they provide every day to our patients and their families."

Ranking-eligible facilities were largely drawn from members of the National Association of Children`s Hospitals and Related Institutions (NACHRI) in either of two categories-a freestanding children`s hospital or a children`s "hospital within a hospital" (a large, multidisciplinary pediatric service within a medical center). In addition, several non-NACHRI members were added because of known expertise or at the recommendation of experts. Of the 143 children`s hospitals invited to complete a survey asking for information as detailed as whether a center offers postgraduate fellowships in pediatric cardiology, 113 responded. The survey was constructed by RTI International, which collects the data and oversees the methodology behind the adult Best Hospitals rankings.

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About U.S.News & World Report
Founded in 1933, U.S.News & World Report is devoted to reporting and to analyzing national and international affairs, politics, business, health, science, technology and social trends. Through its annual editions of America`s Best Colleges, America`s Best Graduate Schools, America`s Best Hospitals, America`s Best Health Plans and America`s Best Leaders, as well as its News You Can Use® brand, U.S. News has earned a reputation as the leading provider of service news and information that improves the quality of life of its readers. The U.S. News website (www.usnews.com) extends that brand promise and delivers the best, most accurate information online, organized in an easily accessible way.

America`s Best Children`s Hospitals, 2008 Edition

In addition to new ranking information, the America`s Best Children`s Hospitals editorial package includes:

Six feature stories of children who beat the odds because they were at the right place
Makenna Franks Update: Formerly profiled child`s transformed heart and recovery

* Full rankings for America`s Best Children`s Hospitals can be found online at www.usnews.com/pediatrics

Five Nortel Enterprise Customers Net Awards for Unified Communications

6/5/2008 12:00:00 AM

Nortel(1) (TSX: NT)(NYSE: NT) presented awards to five of its customers at the annual Global Connect conference, sponsored by the International Nortel Networks Users Association (INNUA)(2), held in Grapevine, Texas. Winners of the Enterprise Customer Recognition Awards took bold steps with their unified communications solutions. They tackled issues like streamlining the hospital discharge process, enabling mobile employees to work with traditional in-office capabilities while away from their desks, and putting a call center in place to transfer callers and information to the right agents anywhere in the world.

Award winners are selected by INNUA and INSIGHT 100(2), a user association for customers with Nortel Meridian SL-100 and Communication Server 2100 systems. "When selecting the winners, we sought to reward those companies that took innovative steps to improve their businesses," said Steve Ford, president of INNUA. "We were looking for bold moves or broad implementations of Nortel technology that few others have tried. And we sought implementations that showed immediate, tangible improvements for those companies."

Awards are presented each year in five categories. This year`s winners are:

- Technology Innovation Best Practice: Integrys Energy Group

- Business Innovation Best Practice: Sprint Nextel

- Enterprise Transformation (more than 1,000 employees): Barclays

- Enterprise Transformation (less than 1,000 employees): Montreal Canadiens Hockey Club

- Sustained Excellence: Orlando Health

"These awards were presented to companies that continue to lead the way when it comes to driving business value through the use of Nortel technology," said Joel Hackney, president, Enterprise Solutions, Nortel. "As shown by the winners, unified communications can be employed in many different ways, but in each of these cases it allows a company to resolve an issue while improving the productivity of its employees."

For the Technology Innovation Best Practice award, presented to the enterprise that demonstrates the most resourceful use of developing technologies or service deployment strategies, Integrys Energy Group used instant messaging to improve its bidding process. A holding company based in Chicago, Illinois, and operating several U.S. energy subsidiaries, Integrys employed an instant messaging service that allowed for bids on energy purchases along with a converged office solution that provided superior communication for its employees.

Designing the most creative approach for tackling tough business problems earned Sprint Nextel the Business Innovation Best Practice award. Sprint Nextel is in the process of providing a unified communications experience, utilizing Microsoft and Nortel products, along with its own flexible IP and mobile networks, to provide its employees with a flexible and virtual work space environment. The solution will enable access to instant and easy-to-use communication tools that will ultimately improve teamwork, collaboration and productivity across the enterprise. The award also recognizes Sprint Nextel`s move to a centralized architecture which improves its service efficiency.

Nortel presented two annual awards in the category of Enterprise Transformation, which highlight customers that demonstrated the most visionary approach to creating business value with Nortel technology. One award is presented to businesses with more than 1,000 employees and one is presented to businesses with fewer than 1,000 employees.

For companies with more than 1,000 employees, the award went to Barclays for its contact center transformation in Europe. Barclays linked worldwide contact centers to drive substantial savings and to increase the efficiency of its employees. Interactive Voice Response (IVR) and live agents now interact seamlessly in Barclays` new network, which transfers callers, and their information, to the appropriate call center around the world.

The second Enterprise Transformation award went to the Bell Centre, home of the Montreal Canadiens, for creating the first totally wireless sports and entertainment venue supporting the operation of the point-of-sale system for concessions. The Bell Centre in Montreal now provides a redundant and secure network that connects users inside the center and in an external park. Media and event staff will be able to use the network and it even powers an Internet Cafe outside of the arena.

The final award for Sustained Excellence was presented to Orlando Health (formerly Orlando Regional Healthcare), a private, not for profit hospital, for automating its patient discharge process. Using IVR and Web applications, Orlando Health has simplified its Hospital Discharge Application (HDA). This first of its kind, HDA was built with input from staff at MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando, part of Orlando Health, and it is integrated with the patient information system in order to contact all doctors associated with a particular patient when the need arises.

About Nortel

Nortel is a recognized leader in delivering communications capabilities that make the promise of Business Made Simple a reality for our customers. Our next-generation technologies, for both service provider and enterprise networks, support multimedia and business-critical applications. Nortel`s technologies are designed to help eliminate today`s barriers to efficiency, speed and performance by simplifying networks and connecting people to the information they need, when they need it. Nortel does business in more than 150 countries around the world. For more information, visit Nortel on the Web at www.nortel.com. For the latest Nortel news, visit www.nortel.com/news.

Certain statements in this press release may contain words such as "could", "expects", "may", "anticipates", "believes", "intends", "estimates", "targets", "envisions", "seeks" and other similar language and are considered forward-looking statements or information under applicable securities legislation. These statements are based on Nortel`s current expectations, estimates, forecasts and projections about the operating environment, economies and markets in which Nortel operates. These statements are subject to important assumptions, risks and uncertainties, which are difficult to predict and the actual outcome may be materially different from those contemplated in forward-looking statements. For additional information with respect to certain of these and other factors, see Nortel`s Annual Report on Form10-K, Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q and other securities

Orlando Regional Healthcare Receives Prestigious Accreditation from the American College of Surgeons Commission on Cancer

6/5/2008 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, Fla. (May 14, 2008) – The cancer program at Orlando Regional Healthcare is one of only six in Florida to be accredited by the American College of Surgeons Commission on Cancer (CoC) with commendation as a Teaching Hospital Cancer Program. Orlando Regional’s program has continuously been accredited for nearly two decades and includes cancer services at MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando, Orlando Regional Medical Center, Arnold Palmer Medical Center and Dr. P. Phillips Hospital.

The CoC accredits programs based on the availability of state-of-the-art pretreatment evaluation, staging and treatment options available to patients. In order to receive the designation of Teaching Hospital Cancer Program, programs must be associated with a medical school and participate in training residents in at least four areas, two of which are medicine and surgery. MD Anderson – Orlando also has a hematology/oncology fellowship program for advanced training in cancer treatment.

“This prestigious accreditation demonstrates our level of commitment to not only provide the best cancer care available, but also to ensure the next generation of doctors receives the finest training possible and are given the opportunity to continue their education right here in the Greater Orlando area,” said Clarence Brown, MD, president of MD Anderson – Orlando.

According to Dr. Brown, Orlando Regional’s partnership with the University of Central Florida’s new School of Medicine will allow more young doctors to pursue their advanced training in the Greater Orlando community, improving cancer care for generations to come.

MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando, part of Orlando Regional Healthcare, is affiliated with The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando in Houston. U.S. News & World Report recently ranked MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando as the top cancer treatment center in the U.S. and has ranked it as one of the top two cancer centers since the rankings began in 1990. Orlando Regional, a 1,780-bed community-owned, Florida not-for-profit organization established in 1918, annually serves more than 540,000 Central Florida residents and nearly 3,000 international patients. More information is available at www.mdandersonorlando.org.

Orlando Regional Healthcare Changes Name to Orlando Health

5/21/2008 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, Fla. (May 20, 2008) – In celebration of its ninetieth anniversary, Orlando Regional Healthcare honors its history and emphasizes its commitment to the future by changing its name to Orlando Health. The new name better reflects the two biggest motivations for the organization’s past 90 years and future 90 years of service – the Greater Orlando community and the advancement of health care through research, education and quality patient care.

“The community’s health is at the center of all we do,” said John Hillenmeyer, Orlando Health president/CEO. “Our new name -- Orlando Health -- reflects what we have always been about – the delivery of the very best patient care to residents in the communities we serve.”

In 2006, Orlando Regional shifted its operating strategy to a decentralized model, emphasizing the organization’s separate hospitals and specialty care centers: Orlando Regional Medical Center, Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children, Winnie Palmer Hospital for Women & Babies, MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando, Orlando Regional Lucerne Hospital, Orlando Regional South Seminole Hospital, Dr. P. Phillips Hospital, and South Lake Hospital. The new name will help to strengthen the brand in the changing marketplace by providing connectivity of all Orlando Health hospitals and health care facilities. In addition, the endorsement strategy will allow each hospital to be recognized appropriately for the specialized services they provide.

“While each of our hospitals has an impeccable reputation in the community, we want people to know our facilities are also part of a larger family of providers that shares a common vision and mission to serve this community for the next 90 years and beyond,” said Hillenmeyer. “This is an exciting time for our team members, physicians and the entire organization as we look to our future as a proud member of our community.”

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About Orlando Health

Orlando Regional Healthcare takes steps to establish heart transplantation program

4/17/2008 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, Fla. (April 17, 2008) --- Taking another step forward to meet the needs of our community, today Orlando Regional Healthcare submitted a Letter of Intent to the state’s Agency for Healthcare Administration (AHCA) to establish a heart transplantation program at Orlando Regional Medical Center (ORMC) and announced the hiring of distinguished heart transplant surgeon, Javier A. Lafuente, MD. Dr. Lafuente, who is currently practicing at The Methodist Hospital System and Methodist DeBakey Heart and Vascular Center in Houston, will join the medical education faculty in July of this year as the Academic Chairman of Cardiothoracic Surgery.

“As a community-based academic medical center, our mission is to meet the health care needs of our community,” said Sherrie Sitarik, Executive Vice President of Orlando Regional Healthcare and President of Orlando Regional Medical Center/Orlando Regional Lucerne Hospital. “For more than twenty years, we have provided Level I trauma services to the citizens of Central Florida demonstrating our ability to manage a complex multi-disciplinary program as a mission to our community. It is our intention to create the same concept with our cardio-vascular continuum of care from congenital heart care identified in children to the complex needs of adult heart transplant patients. The organization is also actively involved in cardiovascular clinical research and clinical trials. The addition of heart transplant services to our existing cardiac program will address a need in our community and make it unnecessary for patients and families to leave our area for care.”

Orlando Regional Medical Center’s cardiac program is well positioned to support a heart transplantation program. In addition to providing clinical expertise in cardiology and a Level One Trauma Center, ORMC is the area’s only statutory teaching hospital and one of only six in the State of Florida. The organization also has critical partnerships with organ procurement and other community health organizations which make for a natural progression to support a heart transplantation program.

Orlando Regional has a longstanding history as a pioneer in health care services in the community. In cardiovascular care, ORMC was the first hospital in Central Florida to perform open-heart surgery and cardiac catheterization.

Today’s actions are the first in a multi-step process for the Certificate of Need. ORMC will submit a full Certificate of Need application to AHCA by the June 25 deadline.

About Orlando Regional Healthcare

Orlando Regional Healthcare is Central Florida’s 5th largest employer with nearly 14,000 employees and more than 2,000 affiliated physicians, all of whom support our philosophy of providing high quality care and service when it matters most. We prove this everyday with over 100,000 inpatient admissions and more than 600,000 outpatient visits each year. In all, Orlando Regional Healthcare serves 1.6 million Central Florida residents and nearly 3,000 international patients annually. Additionally, Orlando Regional Healthcare provides approximately $198 million in support of community health needs. More information can be found at www.orlandoregional.org.

Orlando Regional Healthcare Leads Area Hospitals in New Survey

3/31/2008 12:00:00 AM

Orlando, FL, March 31, 2008 -- Orlando Regional Healthcare’s overall hospital rating is the highest of all hospitals in the four-county central Florida area according to results of a new survey released by the Center for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS). The Hospital Consumer Assessment of Healthcare Providers and Services survey, or HCAHPS for short, is the first nationally standardized, inpatient satisfaction survey of hospitals.

The results show that ORH out-performed all hospitals in the four-county area in the following categories -- overall rating, would recommend, communication with doctors, communication about medicines and room quietness. Survey results also show that patients would rate Orlando Regional Healthcare a nine or 10 on a scale where 10 is the best hospital possible.

Complete results of the HCAHPS survey can be found at www.hospitalcompare.hhs.gov.

“Our entire team works hard each day to provide the highest quality of healthcare in a patient-first environment,” said John Hillenmeyer, president of Orlando Regional Healthcare. “This HCAHPS survey - in addition to pointing out our “above average areas” - also provides information we will use to help us to continue to improve the patient experience.”

The HCAHPS study also shows that ORH out-performed or tied the statewide averages in all areas surveyed. ORH scored better than the statewide average in communication with doctors; communication with nurses; communication about medicines; responsiveness of hospital staff; pain management; and room cleanliness. ORH tied the statewide average in the area of discharge information.

Additionally, ORH scored higher than the national averages in three survey areas; patients’ likelihood to recommend, overall rating, and quietness of hospital environment.

The HCAHPS survey was conducted for ORH by The NCR+Picker Group, an independent healthcare research firm approved by CMS for administering the survey. The NCR+Picker Group has integrated the 27 HCAHPS survey questions into ORH’s ongoing customer satisfaction survey since August 2005 making ORH an early adopter hospital to participate in the study.

The survey consisted of 20 behavior/action questions, one overall rating question, one likelihood to recommend question and five demographic questions. The questionnaire, which was sent to the homes of over 8,600 patients during the months of October 2006 through June 2007, had a return rate of 26%.

HCAHPS questions address the following areas:

Overall hospital rating
Would recommend
Cleanliness of hospital environment
Quietness of hospital environment

The remaining questions are grouped into composites covering the following areas:

Communication with doctors
Communication with nurses
Communications about medicines
Discharge information
Responsiveness of the hospital staff
Pain management

About Orlando Regional Healthcare

First Responders Health Fair

3/17/2008 12:00:00 AM

The Cardiology Team at Orlando Regional Medical Center (ORMC) opened its heart to give back to the first responders who give to our community by offering complimentary Healthy Heart Screenings to all law enforcement officers, paramedics, EMTs and firefighters. The event was held Tuesday, Feb. 19, at ORMC. ORMC’s Heart Healthy Screening includes: Total Blood Cholesterol, Blood Sugar Level, Blood Pressure, BMI and Cardiac Risk Assessment Questionnaire.

Livio Beccaccio, Parramore bike unit, Orlando Police Department, at lab station with Zulay Gomez, lab customer service support representative, ORMC Lab.

Tony Williams, officer, Orlando Police Department, at blood pressure station with Keeli Harris, assistant nurse manger, ORMC Cardiac PCU.

(L to R) Stephanie Ingram, nursing operations manager, ORMC Cardiac PCU; Keeli Harris, assistant nurse manger, ORMC Cardiac PCU, and Marie Bell, RN clinical nurse, ORMC Cardiac Rehab, share heart care information with Phil Peet, patrol officer, Orlando Police Department.

More Photos

MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando Adds Medical Oncologist to Head and Neck Specialty Section

3/12/2008 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, Fla. (March 11, 2008) – Local demand for oncologists focusing on head and neck cancers motivated MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando to add Medical Oncologist Tirrell Johnson, MD, to the team in February. Dr. Johnson joins MD Anderson - Orlando, a part of Orlando Regional Healthcare, after completing a combined hematology/medical oncology fellowship at Brown and Boston Universities.

Dr. Johnson earned his medical degree at the University of Florida College of Medicine in 2000 after graduating magna cum laude from Florida A&M University in 1996 with a degree in chemical engineering. Dr. Johnson stayed in Florida for his residency at Orlando Regional Healthcare, where he gained an interest in oncology after a rotation at MD Anderson – Orlando. He is a member of the American College of Physicians, American Society of Clinical Oncology and the American Society of Hematology.

MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando, part of Orlando Regional Healthcare, is affiliated with The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando in Houston. U.S. News & World Report recently ranked MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando as the top cancer treatment center in the U.S. and has ranked it as one of the top two cancer centers since the rankings began in 1990. Orlando Regional, a 1,780-bed community-owned, Florida not-for-profit organization established in 1918, annually serves more than 540,000 Central Florida residents and nearly 3,000 international patients. More information is available at www.mdandersonorlando.org.

MD Anderson – Orlando’s Cancer Research Institute Plans Move to UCF Health Sciences Campus at Lake Nona

3/12/2008 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, Fla. (December 19, 2007) – MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando’s Cancer Research Institute (CRI) and the University of Central Florida (UCF) promise to advance cancer research in the region by coming together at UCF’s new Health Sciences campus at Lake Nona.

The agreement with UCF, announced on December 19, allows for 30,000 square feet of space for the CRI on the fifth floor of the new UCF Burnett Biomedical Sciences Building, which is scheduled for completion in 2009. The CRI will pay the university a total of $2.5 million to occupy the building for up to five years while MD Anderson – Orlando plans and builds its own research facility which will also be located on UCF grounds.

It is anticipated that UCF and the CRI researchers will develop research collaborations and, when possible, share in the use of core support facilities. Many of the MD Anderson – Orlando researchers will also have appointments to the UCF College of Medicine faculty and will mentor UCF students looking to continue their research in Central Florida.

The institute employs 12 researchers, and Cheryl Baker, Ph.D., director of the CRI, estimates the team could triple with the added space and resources. “This is a big step for the community because the more we invest in research, the sooner we can bring new treatments to cancer patients in Central Florida and across the world,” said Dr. Baker.

The UCF College of Medicine and the CRI are two of many premier organizations helping to create a new “medical city” at Lake Nona. The area soon will be bustling with scientists trying to find a cure for cancer and future doctors learning about the latest advances in health care.

“This partnership will be a great asset to our university, and it will help to improve the quality of health care in Central Florida,” said Terry Hickey, UCF’s provost and executive vice president. "This represents another step in transforming Orlando into a premier cancer and medical research city. Our agreement expands resources for cutting-edge cancer research while also providing students the opportunity for hands-on research learning."

The CRI uses basic and translational research to develop new therapies for pancreatic, kidney, head & neck, lung, breast and brain cancers. Discoveries made at CRI could mean more Phase I clinical trials for patients here in Central Florida. Phase I clinical trials are the first step toward Food & Drug Administration (FDA) approval, which can often take years.

MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando, part of Orlando Regional Healthcare, is affiliated with The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando in Houston. U.S. News & World Report recently ranked MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando as the top cancer treatment center in the U.S. and has ranked it as one of the top two cancer centers for the past 13 years. Orlando Regional, a 1,780-bed community-owned, Florida not-for-profit organization established in 1918, annually serves more than 540,000 Central Florida residents and nearly 3,000 international patients. More information is available at www.mdandersonorlando.org.

The UCF College of Medicine was established in 2006 to increase opportunities for medical education in Florida, address the growing physician shortage nationwide and provide economic benefits to Central Florida and the state through research and technology. The college will offer a doctor of medicine (M.D.) degree program beginning fall 2009, pending preliminary accreditation from the Liaison Committee on Medical Education. The college expects to enroll an initial class of 40 students and eventually produce about 120 medical graduates each year.

Innovative Use of Technology at Orlando Regional Healthcare Captures the Attention of the Healthcare Information and Management Systems Society

3/12/2008 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, Fla. (March 12, 2008) – A remote-controlled robot doctor, voice activated patient discharge solution and electronic bed management system are a few of the highlights members of the Healthcare Information and Management Systems Society (HIMSS) saw during a behind-the-scenes tour of Orlando Regional Healthcare in February. Each year, the HIMSS conference selects a hospital in its host city to tour based on its innovative use of health care technology. This year, they selected Orlando Regional.

“We’re committed to using the newest technologies to improve the care of our patients and it’s exciting to be recognized by HIMSS for our efforts,” said Rick Schooler, chief information officer for Orlando Regional.

Those efforts include an RP-7 robot, the only in Central Florida, which allows doctors to remote their expertise, along with their image, to other hospitals. The patient can make eye contact with their doctors through a display screen which sits atop a remote-controlled robot complete with arms and wheels. A camera on top of the screen provides the doctors with real-time images of their patients. This allows sought-after specialists to provide faster consultations to patients at hospitals many miles away.

Nortel’s Patient Discharge Solution is another time-saving tool for both clinicians and patients. The automated system is currently in trial at MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando, part of Orlando Regional, and is the brainchild of the center’s medical director, Wayne Jenkins, MD, and Orlando surgeon Marc Demers. The system uses computer-integrated telephony and interactive voice response (IVR) technology to automate the entire discharge process from physician consent to prescriptions, housekeeping and the wheelchair ride to the front door. During a recent pilot, discharge times were improved by four hours – getting patients back to the comfort of their homes sooner and freeing up hospital beds for those seeking care.

“For health care systems to thrive, they need to embrace new technologies and effectively integrate them into their every day operations,” said Schooler. “We’re proud that HIMSS has identified Orlando Regional as one of the market’s best.”

The group of 50 HIMSS members will see demonstrations of technologies in use at MD Anderson – Orlando and Orlando Regional Medical Center, and will tour several Orlando Regional hospitals including Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children and Winnie Palmer Hospital for Women & Babies. HIMSS will also stop at Health Central for a behind-the-scenes peek at its pharmacy.

Orlando Regional Healthcare, a 1,704-bed private, not-for-profit organization was established in 1918. The hospital system serves 1.6 million Central Florida residents and nearly 3,000 international patients annually. Physicians are independent contractors and are not employees of Orlando Regional Healthcare or its subsidiaries. As a community-owned organization, Orlando Regional reinvests its profits into many one-of-a-kind, specialized services like Central Florida’s only Level One Trauma Center and statutory teaching hospital. Another unique service is Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children’s 23,500-square-foot, 33-bed Children’s Emergency Department & Trauma Center. U.S.News & World Report ranked Orlando Regional Healthcare as one of the nation’s best hospitals, Fortune magazine recognized Orlando Regional as one of the Top 100 Companies to Work for in America and the Herman Group designated Orlando Regional Healthcare an Employer of Choice. More information is available at www.orlandoregional.org.

ORMC employs Dr. Robot to provide anytime anywhere expertise and care

3/4/2008 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, Fla. (February 27, 2008) --- Armed with gadgets, R2-D2 would save the day in the world of “Star Wars.” Along the path of today’s medical frontier, a new high-tech robot known as RP-7 equipped with medical tools is helping doctors at Orlando Regional Medical Center (ORMC) to be in two places at once. RP-7 features Virtually There™ interactive technology that allows doctors to project their expertise from one location to another---minutes away locally or even miles away worldwide. ORMC is the only hospital in Central Florida with the RP-7 robot.

ORMC’s RP-7 robot has a human-like stature with a video monitor acting as a face, and is located at the hospital’s ICU. Using a special laptop in another location, a doctor points and clicks to use the robot’s digital cameras to zoom and focus on a patient. Cameras can even capture bedside monitors and equipment. Audio microphones allow the doctor to speak to the patient and hear feedback from assessment questions. Special software makes it possible for the doctor to remotely maneuver the robot through the hallways of a patient care area, obtaining vital clinical information in real-time. Clinicians at the patient location are also able to interact with the doctor via RP-7 during patient care.

“RP-7 takes basic telemedicine technologies to another level,” said Edgar Jimenez, MD, medical director, ORMC ICU. “We can now leave the conference room tables and chairs and take a virtual walk down the hallways of another hospital to the bedside and treat patients as we would in person.”

ORMC will begin its use of RP-7 in critical care environments. Even while doctors are on-call away from the hospital, they are practically, instantly at the bedside 24/7.

“Instead of having to ask questions about the patient’s condition, the doctor is able to see and receive additional timely information with the assistance of a clinician on-site with the patient,” said Dr. Jimenez. “Compared to telephone consults, using the RP-7 to assess patients is as different as listening to a football game on a radio verses watching it on high definition television.”

Outside of currently allowing doctors to provide medical expertise to caregivers at ORMC from outside locations, in future applications, having the RP-7 will virtually take the hospital’s specialized care to another hospital and improve patient and family communication when a patient transfer is needed.

“For a patient and their family, a transfer from familiar surroundings to another facility can feel scary,” said Elizabeth Poalillo, MSN, ARNP, CCRN, nursing operations manager, ORMC ICU. “With the virtual electronic ICU environment, we would be able to have a remote consult using a RP-7 at another hospital to assess and to talk with patients and families prior to a move to our facility. This makes the transfer easier for patients and family because there has been one-on-one, direct communication with the doctors and clinicians who will be continuing the care.”

In addition to the direct patient care, the RP-7 technology is easily and readily adaptable for rounds, education and training and other applications. The robot could help fill a significant gap in medical specialty needs experienced across the country. Only 25 percent of hospitals have 24/7 intensivists and the number of intensivists available is not expected to meet the needs.

“There is a deficit of 25,000 intensivists across the country, and the numbers are similar or higher for other specialties,” said Dr. Jimenez. ”Even if every hospital could afford to add to the staff, the resources are not available. This technology bridges the gap, giving patients the benefits of the access to higher level specialties they need when needed the most.”

Orlando Regional Healthcare, a 1,780-bed private, not-for-profit organization was established in 1918. The hospital system serves 1.6 million Central Florida residents and nearly 3,000 international patients annually. As a community-owned organization, Orlando Regional reinvests its profits into many one-of-a-kind, specialized services like Central Florida’s only Level One Trauma Center and statutory teaching hospital. Another unique service is Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children’s 23,500-square-foot, 33-bed Children’s Emergency Department & Trauma Center. U.S.News & World Report ranked Orlando Regional Healthcare as one of the nation’s best hospitals, Fortune magazine recognized Orlando Regional as one of the Top 100 Companies to Work for in America and the Herman Group designated Orlando Regional Healthcare an Employer of Choice. More information is available at www.orlandoregional.org.

Red February Healthy Heart Education Series

2/4/2008 12:00:00 AM

Irregular Heart Beat: How To Keep A Steady Rhythm
Thursday, Feb. 14
10 AM

Is your heart prone to skipping a beat? Irregular heartbeats (arrhythmias) can signal a serious health issue. Roland Filart, MD, board certified in internal medicine, cardiovascular medicine and clinical cardiac electrophysiology, explains atrial fibrillation – a disturbance in the upper chambers of the heart, which leads to an irregular rate or pattern of the heartbeat. Discussion will include signs, symptoms and treatment options. Cost: Free. Meets 10 a.m., Orlando Regional Medical Center, 1414 Kuhl Ave., Multipurpose Room C. Complimentary garage parking provided with advanced registration. To RSVP, call HealthLine at 321-8HEALTH (321-843-2584).

Ask The Heart Doctor
Thursday, Feb. 21
10 AM

Do you ever wonder when you should see a cardiologist? Or, do you have questions about heart disease but aren’t sure where to turn? Barry Weinstock, MD, board-certified cardiologist, will discuss medical breakthroughs, including tests used to diagnose heart disease, cardiac conditions and various treatment options.

Meets 10 a.m., Orlando Regional Medical Center, 1414 Kuhl Ave., Multipurpose Room C. Complimentary garage parking provided with advanced registration. To RSVP, call HealthLine at 321-8HEALTH (321-843-2584).

Orlando Regional adds orthopedic surgeon to faculty practice

2/4/2008 12:00:00 AM

Orlando, Fla. (January 23, 2008) --- Orlando Regional Healthcare recently added Stan Kupiszewski, M.D., an orthopedic surgeon with more than 15 years experience, to the Orthopedic Faculty Practice.

Dr. Kupiszewski received a medical degree from the College of Medicine at the University of Florida after completing a master’s degree in mechanical engineering. He completed a general surgery internship and orthopedic residency at Orlando Regional Medical Center. Dr. Kupiszewski also completed a spine surgery fellowship at Florida SpineCare Center.

In addition to treating patients, Dr. Kupiszewski will serve as faculty member of the Medical Education Program, mentoring medical students and residents. Dr. Kupiszewski is a member of the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons and Florida Orthopaedic Society.

For more information about the Orthopedic Faculty Practice, located at Orlando Regional’s downtown campus at 22 West Underwood Street, call (407) 649-6878.

Orlando Regional Healthcare, a 1,704-bed private, not-for-profit organization was established in 1918. The hospital system serves 1.6 million Central Florida residents and nearly 3,000 international patients annually. As a community-owned organization, Orlando Regional reinvests its profits into many one-of-a-kind, specialized services like Central Florida’s only Level One Trauma Center and statutory teaching hospital. Another unique service is Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children’s 23,500-square-foot, 33-bed Children’s Emergency Department & Trauma Center. U.S.News & World Report ranked Orlando Regional Healthcare as one of the nation’s best hospitals, Fortune magazine recognized Orlando Regional as one of the Top 100 Companies to Work for in America and the Herman Group designated Orlando Regional Healthcare an Employer of Choice. More information is available at www.orlandoregional.org.

Specialists join Orlando Regional’s Internal Medicine Faculty Practice

2/4/2008 12:00:00 AM

Orlando, Fla. (January 24, 2008) --- Orlando Regional Healthcare recently added physicians David Smuckler, M.D., and Jorge Parellada, M.D. to the Internal Medicine Faculty Practice. Both have a broad background in education, patient care, teaching and research.

Dr. Smuckler received his medical degree from the Georgetown University School of Medicine. He completed a residency in internal medicine at Jewish Hospital of St. Louis, where he also became medical director of the emergency department. Board certified in geriatrics, Dr. Smuckler is a member of the clinical faculty at the Florida State University College of Medicine and was previously an instructor in clinical medicine and internal medicine at Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis.

Dr. Parellada graduated from the University of Havana in Cuba. He completed an internal medicine residency at Calixto Garcia Hospital, Cuba. He also practiced medicine in Chile before he later joined Orlando Regional Medical Center as a resident, where he was named chief resident in internal medicine. Dr. Parellada has completed research in various areas including angina and Hepatitis C.

For more information about the Internal Medicine Faculty Practice, located at Orlando Regional’s downtown campus at 818 Main Lane, call 321-841-6600.

Orlando Regional Healthcare, a 1,704-bed private, not-for-profit organization was established in 1918. The hospital system serves 1.6 million Central Florida residents and nearly 3,000 international patients annually. As a community-owned organization, Orlando Regional reinvests its profits into many one-of-a-kind, specialized services like Central Florida’s only Level One Trauma Center and statutory teaching hospital. Another unique service is Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children’s 23,500-square-foot, 33-bed Children’s Emergency Department & Trauma Center. U.S.News & World Report ranked Orlando Regional Healthcare as one of the nation’s best hospitals, Fortune magazine recognized Orlando Regional as one of the Top 100 Companies to Work for in America and the Herman Group designated Orlando Regional Healthcare an Employer of Choice. More information is available at www.orlandoregional.org.

MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando Doctors Recognized as the Best of the Best by Orlando Magazine

12/17/2007 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, Fla. (December 17, 2007) - Twelve MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando oncologists were recently spotlighted in Orlando Magazine as being among the best doctors in Central Florida for 2007.

The highlighted physicians were selected from the Best Doctors in America® database, which contains the names and professional affiliations of 33,000 doctors in the United States chosen through a peer-review survey. The survey asks doctors: "If you or a loved one needed a doctor in your specialty, and you could not treat them yourself, to whom would you refer them?" The list includes the top five percent of doctors in more than 400 subspecialties.

"We are proud of our physicians who have received this honor," said John Hillenmeyer, president and CEO of Orlando Regional Healthcare. "This recognition demonstrates the high level of expertise that our faculty members possess and is significant because it is based on the opinion of some of the best physicians in the country."

This year`s MD Anderson - Orlando honorees include the following, along with their category of distinction:

Medical Oncology and Hematology:

Dr. Clarence H. Brown III, president and CEO
Dr. Jennifer E. Tseng, medical oncologist, hematology and breast, gastrointestinal, gynecologic, and thoracic/head & neck cancers
Dr. Jose Sarriera, medical oncologist, hematology, leukemia, lymphoma/myeloma and breast and gastrointestinal cancers
Dr. Nikita Shah, medical oncologist, hematology and breast and gynecologic cancers
Dr. Julio Hajdenberg, medical oncologist, hematology, leukemia, lymphoma/myeloma
Dr. Omar Kayaleh, medical oncologist, hematology, lymphoma/myeloma and breast, gastrointestinal and genitourinary cancers

Radiation Oncology:

Dr. Daniel Buchholz, radiation oncologist, breast, gastrointestinal and gynecologic cancers
Dr. D. Wayne Jenkins, radiation oncologist, pediatric hemotology/oncology, lymphoma/myeloma, melanoma/sarcoma and neurologic, thoracic/head & neck and breast cancers
Dr. Alan Forbes, radiation oncologist, lymphoma/myeloma and genitourinary and thoracic/head & neck cancers
Dr. Patrick Kupelian, radiation oncologist, genitourinary cancer

Thoracic Surgery:

Dr. Alan D. Johnston, thoracic surgeon, thoracic/head & neck cancers

Pediatric Oncology:

Dr. Vincent Giusti, pediatric hematology/oncology

MD Anderson - Orlando physicians provide care through MD Anderson - Orlando, Orlando Regional Medical Center and Dr. P. Phillips Hospital as well as teach medical students and residents. Many are also conducting cutting-edge clinical research to develop better ways of preventing, diagnosing and treating cancer in the future.

MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando, part of Orlando Regional Healthcare, is affiliated with The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando in Houston. U.S. News & World Report recently ranked MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando as the top cancer treatment center in the U.S. and has ranked it as one of the top two cancer centers since the rankings began in 1990. Orlando Regional, a 1,780-bed community-owned, Florida not-for-profit organization established in 1918, annually serves more than 540,000 Central Florida residents and nearly 3,000 international patients. More information is available at www.mdandersonorlando.org.

HUG-Me Program at the Howard Phillips Center for Children & Families Wins Sapphire Award of Distinction

12/14/2007 12:00:00 AM

Orlando, FL (December 14, 2007) - The HUG-Me (Help Understand and Guide-Me) program at The Howard Phillips Center for Children & Families, part of Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children, received the 2007 Sapphire Award of Distinction and was awarded $75,000. The award is given by the Blue Foundation for a Healthy Florida, which recognizes program excellence in community health. HUG-Me was one of 42 programs nominated and among the top five winners.

HUG-Me was nominated for the staff`s tireless efforts in the HIV/AIDS community. HUG-Me has had a zero percent transmission rate of HIV from mother to baby for the past nine years.

"We feel extremely privileged to be honored by the Blue Foundation, are proud of the work we`ve accomplished and hopeful for the work we will continue to do in the future," said Alelia Munroe, MPH, program manager at HUG-Me.

Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children, supported by the Arnold Palmer Medical Center Foundation, is a 158-bed facility dedicated exclusively to the needs of children. Located in Orlando, Arnold Palmer Hospital includes comprehensive, specialized programs and services for children including acute care, adolescent medicine, a Congenital Heart Institute in partnership with Miami Children`s Hospital, pediatric intensive care, emergency medicine, nephrology, neurology and trauma services to name a few. To learn more, visit www.arnoldpalmerhospital.org.

Dr. Charles Mahan, Sapphire Award Selection Committee; Alelia Munroe, MPH, program manager, HUG-Me program and Randy Kramer, president, Blue Foundation Board of Directors.

Cancer Survivors Receive Star Treatment for New Pinup Calendar to Benefit MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando

12/12/2007 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, Fla. (December 12, 2007) – Bold red lips, loose pin curls, gorgeous sequin gowns and charisma galore pop from the pages of a new pinup calendar to benefit MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando, but these women aren’t your average models. They are all cancer survivors ready for their vintage Hollywood glam makeovers and their time in the spotlight to raise funds and awareness for local breast cancer programs. The women will be immortalized in the 1950s throwback paintings and photography of local artist Iman Woods and in the pages of the 2008 calendar which was designed and printed with the help of Orlando Regional Healthcare to benefit the cancer center.

Both Woods’ mother and mother-in-law battled cancer and all of the emotions, insecurity and self doubt that followed. Woods approached long-time MD Anderson – Orlando supporters Women Playing for T.I.M.E.™ (Technology, Immediate Diagnosis, Mammography and Education) about creating a charity calendar to showcase the beauty of cancer patients.

“Sometimes it just takes a little pampering, a camera lens and a paint brush to help women see their true beauty,” said Woods. “Women battling cancer are no different from the rest of us. We all want to feel feminine and stylish.”

The models received professional hair and makeup for the photo shoot with Woods. The look was completed by dressing the models in vintage gowns inspired by Hollywood starlets of the past. The Robb & Stucky Interiors showroom in Altamonte Springs opened its doors to Woods and the models who posed on plush chaise lounges and regal beds for the photo shoot. The end result is a captivating piece: a collection of pinup art in the form of playbills, war-time postcards and movie posters which celebrate the story of each woman’s winning tale. Each portrait exudes sentiments of confidence, happiness and above all, health.

“When I first saw Iman’s work I knew it was the perfect way to highlight the brave cancer survivors from MD Anderson - Orlando,” said Ellen Demetree, a cancer survivor and WPFT member. “It brings me great joy to know this calendar will not only boost the spirits of those fighting the disease, but also raise money for programs right here in our community.”

The beautiful cancer survivors don the pages of the calendar which is available for purchase through www.womenplayingfortime.org at a cost of $20 plus shipping and handling. Thanks to the generous support of SunTrust, Timeshare Resales U.S.A. Inc., Salon Ratay, Women Playing for T.I.M.E. and Artist Iman Woods, all proceeds from the calendar sales will benefit MD Anderson – Orlando.

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Women Playing for T.I.M.E. Raises $1 Million this Year for MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando

12/6/2007 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, Fla. (December 6, 2007) – Women Playing for T.I.M.E.™ (Technology, Immediate Diagnosis, Mammography and Education) more than doubled past donations to raise $1 million for breast cancer research and programs at MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando in 2007. The announcement was made during the all-women volunteer group’s 15th anniversary charity golf tournament in late October. Since 1993, WPFT has raised more than $7 million for breast cancer research and programs at the center, averaging $450,000 a year.

The ladies encouraged their friends, family and neighbors to make donations to WPFT and take a swing against the disease that has plagued so many of their lives. “It’s amazing the difference this group has had on the cancer community,” said Elaine Lustig, co-founder of WPFT. “I’m confident our fundraising and public awareness efforts have led to better treatment of women suffering from cancer. And, after 15 years, Women Playing for T.I.M.E. shows no signs of slowing down.”

Funds from WPFT have helped the facility acquire a Helical Tomotherapy radiation machine, establish a state of the art breast cancer screening, diagnostic and treatment center, and develop numerous educational outreach programs. The ladies also created Harriett’s, a free boutique at MD Anderson – Orlando where their breast cancer patients can find health and beauty products.

RSV Season Nears Peak

11/29/2007 12:00:00 AM

Orlando, FL (November 29, 2007) – The respiratory syncytial virus, known as RSV, season is nearing its peak as the winter months quickly approach. RSV is a common respiratory virus that affects most children by the age of two. It occurs throughout the year but is more prevalent from August – April and peaks during the winter months.

In most children, RSV causes a mild respiratory infection that is hard to distinguish from a common cold. It is contagious and common warning signs include sneezing, stuffy or running nose, sore throat and fever. RSV can become serious and children having any of the following problems should be seen by their pediatrician - wheezing or coughing, trouble breathing, fast breathing, blue or gray skin color, trouble eating, drinking or sleeping.

“For most healthy babies and young children RSV is not much more than a cold and will run its course within a week or two requiring little or no treatment. However, for babies who were born prematurely or have other lung diseases, congenital heart disease or neuromuscular problems, it can be a very serious illness for them which may require hospitalization,” said Daniel Garcia, MD, pediatric pulmonologist at Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children. “For high-risk babies we recommend preventative care by giving them monthly injections of a prescription medication called Synagis. It helps protect babies who have a hard time fighting off the RSV virus.”

Parents can help protect their children from the RSV virus by following these recommendations:

Wash your hands before touching your baby/child and ask others to do the same.
Keep people with colds away from your baby/child. This includes brothers and sisters.
Wash your baby/child’s toys and bedding often.
Do not smoke around your baby/child.
Keep your baby/child home from day care or school when they are sick.
Do not share personal items (pacifiers, cups, silverware, towels, etc.)

Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children, supported by the Arnold Palmer Medical Center Foundation, is a 158-bed facility dedicated exclusively to the needs of children. Located in Orlando, Arnold Palmer Hospital includes comprehensive, specialized programs and services for children including acute care, adolescent medicine, a Congenital Heart Institute in partnership with Miami Children’s Hospital, pediatric intensive care, emergency medicine, nephrology, neurology and trauma services to name a few. To learn more, visit www.arnoldpalmerhospital.org.

Three Local Health Systems Unite to Plant Seeds of Health in Orlando

11/8/2007 12:00:00 AM

November 7, 2007 – Orlando, FL – On the steps of City Hall Wednesday morning, three of Central Florida’s major healthcare systems came together to make an announcement that will help create a healthier community. Florida Hospital, Health Central, and Orlando Regional Healthcare announced a unique partnership and joint decision to become tobacco-free on July 1, 2008.

“It is remarkable to have these organizations working together to eliminate smoke and tobacco from their facilities simultaneously,” said Orlando Mayor Buddy Dyer. “It shows a partnership and commitment to health that goes beyond each hospital’s walls. Together, they are really making a difference in our community.”

In honor of this unprecedented announcement, the hospitals have established a common motto of “Breathe Easy” for the initiative. To recognize that, they donated a tree to the City of Orlando that will be planted at Wadeview Park. They also distributed seedlings to encourage everyone to plant trees that symbolize fresh air.

“The relationship between hospitals and the community is more than just mending broken bones or tending to immediate medical needs,” said Lars Houmann, president of Florida Hospital. “Hospitals that truly care will do everything they can to enhance and promote healthy lifestyles for the people they serve.”

As part of that commitment, each facility will offer support programs such as smoking cessation and support groups for employees who are attempting to quit smoking.

“We are going tobacco-free not only for the health of our patients but also for the health of our employees,” said Richard Irwin, Jr., president of Health Central. “However, we know smoking is a difficult addiction to manage. That is why we are offering support to those who need it so this can be a positive experience for all involved.”

Smoking is the leading preventable cause of death and disease in the United States. The positive effects of quitting begin almost immediately and increase with time. In fact, after only 20 minutes of not smoking, blood pressure and pulse rates decrease. After 8 hours, the oxygen level in the blood increases, and at 24 hours, the chance of a heart attack decreases. At the 15-year mark, the risk of death returns to nearly the same level as those who have never smoked.

“Smoking not only affects the smoker, but it also affects everyone around them,” said State Surgeon General Ana Viamonte Ros, MD, MPH. “By going tobacco-free together, these hospitals are not only going to have healthier employees but also a healthier environment in which to care for their patients.”

The hospitals will use the next nine months to prepare their employees, patients and visitors for the tobacco-free transition. All three healthcare systems will officially become tobacco-free on July 1, 2008.

“Our unprecedented decision to go tobacco-free at the same time signals our shared commitment to our employees, patients, and others who visit our hospitals,” said John Hillenmeyer, president of Orlando Regional Healthcare. “We are a team aiming to provide the best healing environments possible.”

Florida Hospital, Health Central, and Orlando Regional Healthcare join more than 400 hospitals across the nation that are now tobacco-free, including Mayo Clinic, Duke University, and Cleveland Clinic.

Orlando Health And WKMG Bring Health Information To The Community

11/6/2007 12:00:00 AM

Orlando Health is proud to partner with WKMG Channel 6 (CBS) and their Good Neighbor 6 program to bring important health issues to the attention of Central Floridians in an easy to understand format. Information will be communicated through news stories, public service announcements, editorials, vignettes, promotional spots and prime time specials.

During November, WKMG’s Web site, local6.com, will highlight MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando and lung cancer awareness, including signs and symptoms, risk factors, key technologies and treatments. Luis Herrera, MD, horacic surgeon with the cancer center, will be

featured in public service announcements that will run throughout the month.

In the coming months, watch WKMG Channel 6 for topics on heart health and services at MD Anderson – Orlando, Winnie Palmer Hospital for Women & Babies, and the trauma centers at ORMC and Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children as part of the partnership between Health and the Good Neighbor 6 program.

Risk Factors - 3MB

Smoking Cessation - 3MB

ORMC presents study findings at AHA Scientific Sessions 2007 conference

11/5/2007 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, Fla. (November 5, 2007) -- Orlando Regional Medical Center’s (ORMC) medical director of diagnostic cardiology will reveal findings from a heart study to assess the use of 64-slice computed tomography (CT) in emergency department patients with chest pain, measuring cardiac events, resources used and length of stay. David Bello, MD, interventional electrophysiologist and principal investigator will present “Utility of Multi-Slice Computed Topographic Angiography in the Emergency Department,” on Tuesday, November 6, at the American Heart Association’s Scientific Sessions 2007 conference in Orlando.

“In our study, we have found that using cardiac CT is a useful tool to evaluate emergency department patients with chest pain. It allows a safe discharge and greatly reduces length of stay and accumulated charges,” said Dr. Bello.

Nearly 200 men and women age 21 to 65 were enrolled in the study and divided into two groups. Group A had a normal cardiac CT, with no cardiac events and an average length of stay was 18hours accumulating $8,000 in charges, significantly less than Group B whose average length of stay was 50 hours, resulting in $14,500 in charges.

Though CT technology to scan hearts is not new, using the technology in the emergency department is a new approach. As the only emergency department in Central Florida with a 64-slice CT and the only hospital in Central Florida to combine the expertise of a cardiologist and a radiologist to interpret the heart scans, Orlando Regional looks forward to sharing outcomes and the potential impact to cardiac care.

Orlando Regional Healthcare, a 1,780-bed private, not-for-profit organization was established in 1918. The hospital system serves 1.6 million Central Florida residents and nearly 3,000 international patients annually. As a community-owned organization, Orlando Regional reinvests its profits into many one-of-a-kind, specialized services like Central Florida’s only Level One Trauma Center and statutory teaching hospital. Another unique service is Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children’s 23,500-square-foot, 33-bed Children’s Emergency Department & Trauma Center. U.S.News & World Report ranked Orlando Regional Healthcare as one of the nation’s best hospitals, Fortune magazine recognized Orlando Regional as one of the Top 100 Companies to Work for in America and the Herman Group designated Orlando Regional Healthcare an Employer of Choice. More information is available at www.orlandoregional.org.

ORMC hosts advanced cardiac CT courses for new views of the heart

11/5/2007 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, Fla. (November 5, 2007) -- To show doctors a new way to look inside a patient’s heart, Orlando Regional Medical Center (ORMC) will host advanced Level 1 and Level 2 cardiovascular computed tomography (CT) courses. The in-depth, hands-on cardiac CT course will be held on November 2-4, prior to the American Heart Association’s Scientific Sessions 2007 conference in Orlando.

The workstation-based course highlights the use of advanced 64-slice CT technology to bring together images of the heart from 64 different views in a single rotation, providing clinicians with detailed images previously unattainable, improving efficiency and effectiveness in diagnosis and treatment. Cardiologists and radiologists will learn to observe cardiac scans, review/interpret cardiac CT images, and identify clinical indications/appropriate use of cardiac CT images.

“Orlando Regional is excited to offer our medical community and guests to the area a high level training opportunity to build on clinical excellence in cardiac care,” said David Bello, MD, interventional cardiologist and medical director of diagnostic cardiology at ORMC.

The course is taught by Dr. Bello and other Level 3 certified instructors: Tony DeFrance, MD, interventional electrophysiologist; Brendan Cavanaugh, MD, invasive cardiologist; Ross Hoffman, MD, invasive cardiologist; Robert Schwartz, MD, interventional cardiologist and John Lesser, MD, interventional cardiologist.

The continuing medical education accredited course location is ORMC’s conference center. For additional information about the course, contact CVCTA Education Centers at 800-728-2884 or visit www.cvcta.com.

Orlando Regional Healthcare, a 1,780-bed private, not-for-profit organization was established in 1918. The hospital system serves 1.6 million Central Florida residents and nearly 3,000 international patients annually. As a community-owned organization, Orlando Regional reinvests its profits into many one-of-a-kind, specialized services like Central Florida’s only Level One Trauma Center and statutory teaching hospital. Another unique service is Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children’s 23,500-square-foot, 33-bed Children’s Emergency Department & Trauma Center. U.S.News & World Report ranked Orlando Regional Healthcare as one of the nation’s best hospitals, Fortune magazine recognized Orlando Regional as one of the Top 100 Companies to Work for in America and the Herman Group designated Orlando Regional Healthcare an Employer of Choice. More information is available at www.orlandoregional.org.

ORMC research study evaluates the use of CT technology for ER patients with chest pain

11/5/2007 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, Fla. (November 5, 2007) -- Orlando Regional Medical Center is breaking new ground with a research study to examine the use of 64-slice CT technology in the Emergency Department for patients with chest pain.

Advanced 64-slice CT technology brings together images of organs like the heart from 64 different views in a single rotation, giving clinicians detailed images previously unattainable. Capturing images in seconds, compared to minutes in traditional CT technology, a 64-slice scan is a non-invasive procedure that provides information to diagnose and treat at a highly efficient pace. Use of CT technology to scan hearts is not experimental, however using the technology in the Emergency Department on patients with chest pain to assist with the diagnosis and treatment of these patients is a new approach. ORMC is the only Emergency Department in Central Florida with a 64-slice CT and the only hospital in Central Florida to combine the expertise of a cardiologist and a radiologist to interpret the heart scans.

The medical community has seen the value of 64-slice CT technology for proactive, elective procedures to diagnose heart problems. The next level is to evaluate the value of this technology in ORMC’s Emergency Department where over a thousand patients with chest pain complaints are treated each year.

A closer look inside the hearts will help clinicians determine whether patients have coronary artery atherosclerosis – a beginning state of progressive thickening and hardening of the artery walls.

“We will be able to assess the presence of artery blockage,” explains David Bello, MD, interventional cardiologist and medical director, diagnostic cardiology ORMC, and principal investigator. “A negative study will give patients peace of mind at discharge. The scan, will also help doctors determine appropriate medical care for patients experiencing chest pain unrelated to a heart attack.”

The purpose of the study is to gather critical information about patients’ hearts and the coronary arteries that supply blood to them. The study will collect digital images of each heart and the arteries that deliver blood to the heart muscle. Research study results will help medical staff develop protocols for use of 64-slice CT technology in the Emergency Department for patients with chest pains to expedite appropriate treatment.

Orlando Regional Healthcare, a 1,780-bed private, not-for-profit organization was established in 1918. The hospital system serves more than 640,000 Central Florida residents and 4,500 international patients annually. As a community-owned organization, Orlando Regional reinvests its profits into many one-of-a-kind, specialized services like Central Florida’s only Level One Trauma Center and statutory teaching hospital. Another unique service is Arnold Palmer Hospital’s 23,500-square-foot, 33-bed Children’s Emergency Department & Trauma Center scheduled to open late 2006. U.S.News & World Report ranked Orlando Regional Healthcare as one of the nation’s best hospitals, Fortune magazine recognized Orlando Regional as one of the Top 100 Companies to Work for in America and the Herman Group designated Orlando Regional Healthcare an Employer of Choice. More information is available at www.orlandoregional.org.

Orlando Regional hosts CarFit, a community education event for mature drivers

11/1/2007 12:00:00 AM

What: Orlando Regional Healthcare will host CarFit®, a community education event for mature drivers.

CarFit is a program designed to provide a quick, comprehensive assessment of how well drivers and their vehicles work together for safety and comfort.

During the 15-minute assessment drivers will answer questions and review a checklist with a trained CarFit representative. Next, an occupational therapist will review the checklist for trouble spots and recommend car adjustments and adaptations to improve the driver/car fit. Possible suggestions may include mirror positioning, easy-lock seatbelts, special grip steering wheel covers, visor extenders and seat/back support cushions.

CarFit was developed by the American Society on Aging, AARP, the American Occupational Therapy Association and AAA.

When: Saturday, Nov. 3, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Registration is limited to the first 50 drivers. For more information, contact HealthLine at 407 648-7899.

Where: Orlando Regional Medical Center Pavilion Parking Lot
32 W. Gore Street

Interview/
Photo opps: CarFit representatives and occupational therapists evaluating the car and driver connection.

ORMC doctors and clinicians take a bus to school

11/1/2007 12:00:00 AM

What: A 35-foot mobile classroom visits ORMC to offer doctors and clinicians a virtual environment to sharpen their surgical skills for stent implantation and other catheterization procedures. The high-tech SimSuite bus by Boston Scientific Corp. features a mock catheterization lab, an operating room and “patient” (a computerized mannequin that actually speaks).

When: Thursday, Nov. 1, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Where: Orlando Regional Medical Center
1414 Kuhl Ave.

Interview/
Photo opps: Doctors implanting stents and performing various cardiac procedures in a training setting

MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando Pioneers Procedure to Better Target Radiation of Spinal Cancers

10/31/2007 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, Fla. (October 31, 2007) – A new Phase I clinical trial at MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando offers patients with cancers that have metastasized to the spine a new option for treatment by using wireless beacons to guide radiation treatment within 1/2 millimeter while sparing vital surrounding tissue. For the first time anywhere, doctors at MD Anderson – Orlando will implant Beacon® transponders the size of a grain of rice near a patient’s spine and use the Calypso® 4D Localization System to ensure the slight movements of the patient in the treatment room – like breathing – won’t misdirect the radiation. The Calypso® 4D provides real-time monitoring of the tumor’s location without the use of x-rays.

This trial seeks to help patients who have early spinal metastases resulting in severe pain and those who don’t yet have symptoms. The entire radiation treatment will be administered in one dose, over one day, sparing the patient the conventional three weeks of treatment. Traditionally, these patients would not be able to receive chemotherapy while under radiation treatment, but this clinical trial ensures patients will be able to start any necessary chemotherapy immediately because their radiation is limited to one session.

“The goal is to relieve pain in these patients and minimize their tumors without potentially risky surgery near the spine,” said Alan Forbes, MD (pictured right), radiation section leader for the Thoracic/Head & Neck and Lymphoma/Myeloma specialty sections at MD Anderson – Orlando and co-principal investigator of the trial. “We know patients want to return to their normal lives as soon as possible and we hope they will be pleased with the faster treatments.”

Wayne Jenkins, MD (pictured left), medical director of MD Anderson – Orlando and co-principal investigator of the trial added, “The expected probability of pain relief in patients is 90 percent with this spinal radiosurgery as compared with 65 percent with conventional radiotherapy.”

Phase I trials are the first step towards approval by the Food and Drug Administration. The Calypso® 4D Localization System is already FDA approved for use in the prostate and is one of the standard treatment options for prostate cancer at MD Anderson - Orlando.

Orlando Regional Healthcare joins UCF College of Medicine in affiliation agreement

10/23/2007 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, Fla. (October 23, 2007) --- Continuing its longstanding tradition and commitment to medical education, Orlando Regional Healthcare has partnered with the University of Central Florida’s (UCF) College of Medicine in an affiliation agreement that will allow medical students to participate in clinical training at Orlando Regional hospitals. Hospital teaching affiliation agreements are an essential requirement for medical school accreditation. Completing this affiliation agreement prior to final submission of the College of Medicine’s accreditation application significantly improves the likelihood that the new medical school will receive approval from the Liaison Committee on Medical Education, the national accrediting body for medical schools. As a statutory teaching hospital with extensive experience in both graduate and undergraduate medical education, Orlando Regional is in a unique position to support the College of Medicine`s mission, while strengthening the hospital’s dedication to improving the health and quality of life of the community.

“For 85 years, we have demonstrated our commitment to graduate medical education,” said Jay L. Falk, MD, FACEP, FCCM, vice president, Medical Education, Orlando Regional Healthcare. “Teaching has always been a part of what we do and supporting UCF in teaching their medical students will further advance our efforts in medical education.”

Orlando Regional currently hosts more than 150 fourth-year medical students from across the country in addition to 36 students from the Florida State University College of Medicine campus. Orlando Regional has more than 100 employed medical education faculty members, along with other community physicians available and willing to participate in the endeavor.

“There is a synergistic effect that takes place during the instruction and interaction of our experienced faculty and eager, inquisitive medical students that results in higher quality of health care for our community,” said Dr. Falk. “Also, teaching students in our environment gives them an opportunity to develop interest in training in our residency programs and ultimately remaining in Central Florida, building our physician resources.”

The affiliation also presents new opportunities for faculty development, potential collaborative research projects and other possibilities.

“We want to bring the very best medical students to the UCF College of Medicine, and part of how we attract them is to provide high quality learning opportunities with premier organizations such as Orlando Regional Healthcare,” said Deborah German, MD, dean of the College of Medicine. “When we stand together as a community, we accomplish more than any one of us could accomplish alone. This affiliation with Orlando Regional represents another example of the tremendous support our community continues to show for the College of Medicine.”

The University of Central Florida College of Medicine was established in 2006 to increase opportunities for medical education in Florida, address the growing physician shortage nationwide and provide economic benefits to Central Florida and the state through research and technology. The college will offer a doctor of medicine (MD) degree program beginning fall 2009, pending preliminary accreditation from the Liaison Committee on Medical Education. The college expects to enroll an initial class of 40 students and eventually produce about 120 medical graduates each year.

Orlando Regional Healthcare, a 1,780-bed private, not-for-profit organization was established in 1918. The hospital system serves 1.6 million Central Florida residents and nearly 3,000 international patients annually. As a community-owned organization, Orlando Regional reinvests its profits into many one-of-a-kind, specialized services like Central Florida’s only Level One Trauma Center and statutory teaching hospital. Another unique service is Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children’s 23,500-square-foot, 33-bed Children’s Emergency Department & Trauma Center. U.S.News & World Report ranked Orlando Regional Healthcare as one of the nation’s best hospitals, Fortune magazine recognized Orlando Regional as one of the Top 100 Companies to Work for in America and the Herman Group designated Orlando Regional Healthcare an Employer of Choice. More information is available at www.orlandoregional.org.

Sunday Afternoon opening a new retail store to benefit Orlando Regional Healthcare

10/17/2007 12:00:00 AM

Orlando, FL (October 17, 2007) - Sunday Afternoon, operated by Strategic Investments, will open a retail store on October 25, in the Marketplace at Southside, (2875 S Orange Ave., Suite 536, Orlando) near GNC. Grand opening festivities are scheduled from 11:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. The retailer will sell a variety of personal and gift items donating a portion of all sales to the Orlando Regional Healthcare Foundation.

Orlando Regional Healthcare partnered in 2006 with Strategic Investments to develop a new, innovative tool for raising funds by using e-commerce. Working with some of the country’s largest retailers of personal and gift items Strategic Investments created a shopping Web site for Orlando Regional called www.SundayAfternoonORH.com to sell products for the entire family.

“We’re very excited about Strategic Investments creating a physical location of Sunday Afternoon where folks can go and shop versus having to do it online,” said Michael Stephens, director of corporate partnerships, Orlando Regional Healthcare Foundation. “The money that comes back to Orlando Regional will be invested back into the community through new equipment, technology, programs and other needed services.”

Orlando Regional Healthcare, a 1,780-bed private, not-for-profit organization was established in 1918. The hospital system serves 1.6 million Central Florida residents and nearly 3,000 international patients annually. Physicians are independent contractors and are not employees of Orlando Regional Healthcare or its subsidiaries. As a community-owned organization, Orlando Regional reinvests its profits into many one-of-a-kind, specialized services like Central Florida’s only Level One Trauma Center and statutory teaching hospital. Another unique service is Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children’s 23,500-square-foot, 33-bed Children’s Emergency Department & Trauma Center scheduled. U.S.News & World Report ranked Orlando Regional Healthcare as one of the nation’s best hospitals, Fortune magazine recognized Orlando Regional as one of the Top 100 Companies to Work for in America and the Herman Group designated Orlando Regional Healthcare an Employer of Choice. More information is available at www.orlandoregional.org.

ORMC Cardiologists first in Florida, second in nation to join CardioMEMS heart failure clinical trial

10/12/2007 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, Fla. (October 11, 2007) --- Cardiologists at Orlando Regional Medical Center (ORMC) are first in Florida and second in the nation to implant tiny sensors designed to help patients with heart failure (HF) breathe a sigh of relief for better health and less hospital visits. ORMC is participating in a clinical trial to evaluate the use of the CardioMEMS® HF Pressure Measurement System – in-home technology to track pulmonary artery pressure in real-time, enabling doctors to make more timely decisions on effective treatment before conditions worsen which often requires lengthy hospitalizations.

“Pulmonary artery pressure is critical in managing HF,” explains Barry Weinstock, MD, a cardiologist who practices at Orlando Regional Medical Center and the ORMC Cardiac Cath Lab. “An increase in pulmonary artery pressure is one of the first things that happens before a patient feels shortness of breath and other symptoms and the increase in pressure can occur as early as a week before patients experience those symptoms. With this real-time data, doctors have a chance to make changes in medication or determine if a patient needs to schedule an appointment. This information is also helpful in providing daily feedback to indicate if current medication is working well.”

Jay Yadav, MD, chairman and CEO of CardioMEMS, Inc. commented, “Orlando Regional Medical Center is a nationally recognized regional health care center, and CardioMEMS is very pleased to collaborate with Dr. Weinstock and Orlando Regional Medical Center in the initiation of this US pivotal trial in the state of Florida.“

During the minimally invasive procedure, a cardiologist inserts the small paper clip sized sensor through a vein to the pulmonary artery to measure pressure. After the sensor is inserted and after a short stay at the hospital, the patient is able to go home. Once at home, when patients wake each morning, they lay in their bed on a special pillow positioned behind their back which serves as the external monitoring device connected to the home telephone line. Seconds later the sensor sends a signal to the monitoring device and pressure readings are transmitted to the CardioMEMS secure database. If a patient’s pulmonary artery pressure reaches a certain threshold, their doctor will be notified.

Before now, exact methods to monitor pulmonary artery pressure have been limited, typically requiring either an invasive catheter monitored in an intensive care unit or a pacemaker/defibrillator with special leads permanently placed into the heart. Unlike such systems, the CardioMEMS device does not need a battery and therefore never needs to be replaced.

“Typically HF patients are asked to weigh themselves daily, but weight changes may reflect fluid retention or simply excess eating. Others are told to observe their ankles for signs of edema, but not all, patients have this sign and such "monitoring" is unreliable at best. Continuously measuring fluid intake and urine output is not feasible for most patients outside of the hospital setting,” said Dr. Weinstock. “With this trial we finally have an opportunity for more intelligent monitoring of indicators that are closely related to a patient’s heart failure status.”

Dr. Weinstock likens the future possibilities to the success seen in patients with diabetes.

“Patients with diabetes monitor their glucose (blood sugar) for better health. This new method of monitoring HF takes that type of benefit to the next level, by immediately sending the information to clinicians for a closer look,” said Dr. Weinstock.

The trial is for patients with severe or Class III HF. These patients experience shortness of breath with minimal exertion- climbing stairs or walking around a block. In the study, each patient will receive a sensor. Patients in the treatment group will receive traditional HF management with additional guidance from the data obtained from the monitoring system. Patients in the control group will receive traditional HF management. All patients will continue to be monitored by their doctors as needed. After approximately nine months, physicians will be able to see the data from the sensor for patients in both groups.

HF occurs when the heart loses its ability to pump effectively or supply the necessary amounts of blood and oxygen throughout the body. Generally caused by high blood pressure and coronary artery disease, HF symptoms include increased fatigue, shortness of breath and swelling in legs or ankles. More than five million in the U.S. have HF and 550,000 new cases are diagnosed each year. National statistics indicate 72 percent of patients with HF are readmitted within six months of discharge.

“The U.S. health system spends more on HF admissions than any other diagnosis. The estimates are in the billions,” said Dr. Weinstock.

For additional information about the research study, the Orlando Regional Clinical Trials Department at 321-841-3679 or contact Brad Jeffries, MD, VP Clinical Operations at CardioMEMS, Inc. at 404-432-6882.

Orlando Regional Healthcare, a 1,780-bed private, not-for-profit organization was established in 1918. The hospital system serves 1.6 million Central Florida residents and nearly 3,000 international patients annually. Physicians are independent contractors and are not employees of Orlando Regional Healthcare or its subsidiaries. As a community-owned organization, Orlando Regional reinvests its profits into many one-of-a-kind, specialized services like Central Florida’s only Level One Trauma Center and statutory teaching hospital. Another unique service is Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children’s 23,500-square-foot, 33-bed Children’s Emergency Department & Trauma Center. U.S.News & World Report ranked Orlando Regional Healthcare as one of the nation’s best hospitals, Fortune magazine recognized Orlando Regional as one of the Top 100 Companies to Work for in America and the Herman Group designated Orlando Regional Healthcare an Employer of Choice. More information is available at www.orlandoregional.org.

Passion For Fashion

10/11/2007 12:00:00 AM

2 p.m., West Court, Orlando Fashion Square

Saturday, Oct. 13

Breast cancer specialists, patients and survivors from MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando will model the latest fall fashions at 2 p.m., Saturday, Oct. 13, during a breast cancer awareness fashion show at Orlando Fashion Square mall’s West Court, (3201 E. Colonial Dr.)

Jacqueline London, WKMG Ch. 6 (CBS) anchor and Nikita Shah, MD, breast cancer specialist with MD Anderson – Orlando, will emcee the event and the center’s nurse educators will be available to answer questions. Come join us as we salute our patients, survivors and fellow team members!

To learn more, see the video.

27th Annual Dick Batchelor Run for the Children

10/11/2007 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, FL (September 20, 2007) –The 27th Annual Dick Batchelor Run for the Children will take place on Saturday, October, 27, at Lake Eola Park. The annual event will benefit local child abuse prevention and treatment programs at The Howard Phillips Center for Children & Families, part of Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children.

Registration begins at 6 a.m. at Lake Eola in Downtown Orlando on the corner of Rosalind Avenue and Central Boulevard near the amphitheatre. The cost is $18 for advance registration and $30 on the day of the event. Kids may run/walk for free and because the event is just before Halloween they are encouraged to wear their costumes. Every child receives a “race bib” with the “#1” because all kids are #1 in this family-friendly, fun-filled event, and we encourage all parents to ask Central Florida’s #1 Question: “Is it good for the children?™” For more information and to register, please go to www.trackshack.com.

This year, Florida tops all other states in the nation for indicated reports of child maltreatment. It is statistics like this and having met two little girls under the age of five who were survivors of sexual abuse that inspired well-known child advocate, Dick Batchelor, to start the 5K Walk/Run which bears his name.

“I visited a program, known today as The Healing Tree, which provides treatment for children who have suffered the trauma of sexual abuse,” said Batchelor. “That day I vowed to become a lifetime advocate for the thousands of children, who like those two little girls, had suffered unimaginable abuse. I started the Run for the Children to raise money to help children heal.”

Corporate teams, church youth groups, school clubs, mom’s clubs or civic groups are welcome. It’s a great way to team-build, have fun, and get some exercise while helping a great cause.

Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children, supported by the Arnold Palmer Medical Center Foundation, is a 158-bed facility dedicated exclusively to the needs of children. Located in Orlando, Arnold Palmer Hospital includes comprehensive, specialized programs and services for children including acute care, adolescent medicine, a Congenital Heart Institute in partnership with Miami Children’s Hospital, pediatric intensive care, emergency medicine, nephrology, neurology and trauma services to name a few. To learn more, visit www.arnoldpalmerhospital.org.

Panera Bread® Honors National Breast Cancer Awareness Month with Pink Ribbon Bagels™

10/9/2007 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, Fla. (October 1, 2007) – Put smiles on the faces of your co-workers and thousands of local breast cancer patients by picking up a tray of Panera Bread’s signature Pink Ribbon Bagels for the office during Nation Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Throughout October, the limited edition Pink Ribbon Bagel will be sold in all 18 Central Florida bakery-cafes and in more than 900 locations nationwide, with a portion of the proceeds benefiting cancer facilities. Locally, Panera is proud to donate 25 cents from each Pink Ribbon Bagel to MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando. The change can quickly add up to thousands – last year’s promotion raised $25,000 locally.

The Panera Pink Ribbon Bagel is baked fresh daily in each of Panera Bread’s bakery-cafes and features cherry chips and real bits of Bing cherries and cranberries. The product follows the tradition of ‘thinking pink’ during the month of October in the quest to eradicate breast cancer disease.

“Panera Bread is committed to serving the members of the local community, many of whom have had their lives touched by breast cancer,” said Annette Ford Owner of all Central Florida Panera Bread locations. “We are honored to support Women Playing For T.I.M.E.TM and MD Anderson – Orlando in their search for a cure.”

Panera Bread also supports charitable causes through its Operation Dough-Nation® program. For the past 13 years, the program has ensured that every purchase at Panera Bread feeds back into the community. Operation Dough-Nation contributes to the local community with both monetary and bread donations to local food pantries and hunger relief agencies.

Panera Bread serves fresh baked, handcrafted artisan breads, sweet and savory baked goods, hand-tossed salads, wholesome soups, and signature sandwiches in a distinctly warm and welcoming environment. Panera Bread is committed to using only the highest quality, fresh ingredients in the food we offer, and making a lasting contribution to the neighborhoods in which our customers and employees live and work through programs like Operation Dough-Nation. Headquartered in Richmond Heights, MO, Panera Bread operates 939 bakery-cafes in 37 states as release in the July 25, 2006 earnings statement. For more information, visit www.panerabread.com.

MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando Showcases Original Art by Breast Cancer Survivors to Commemorate Start of Pink October

10/8/2007 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, Fla. (October 8, 2007) – Pink October* features all of the colors of the rainbow this year at MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando. The cancer center will showcase sidewalk art from a local breast cancer survivor as well paintings and photography from the international art exhibit “Oncology on Canvas” during Breast Cancer Awareness month.

Beth Stanaland, a local breast cancer survivor, will create vivid chalk drawings of colorful cancer awareness ribbons in honor of the estimated 11,710 Florida women who were diagnosed with breast cancer this year. Stanaland defeated breast cancer with the help of oncologists and technology at MD Anderson – Orlando. Since then, she returns to the center each year to draw chalk renditions of classic Norman Rockwell paintings.

In addition to the sidewalk art which will greet patients and visitors at MD Anderson – Orlando, award-winning works of art from “Oncology on Canvas,” a touring exhibition presented by Eli Lilly and Company, will be featured in the hallways of the center from October 1 through October 5. The exhibit features 50 original water color, acrylic and oil paintings as well as photography inspired by breast cancer survivors, family members, friends, oncologists and nurses.

“The act of creating art can surprise us and provide nourishment and ease in times of illness,” said Jeanne Miller-Clark, director of the Mind/Body/Spirit Center at MD Anderson –Orlando. “We hope this art will bring beauty and strength to patients when they need it most and perhaps even a chuckle to make the journey easier. “

Throughout the month of October, the Mind/Body/Spirit Center at MD Anderson – Orlando will offer free classes to the public including “Rhythm of Health” and “Harnessing Humor’s Healing Power.” For more information about upcoming classes please call Sarah Stengel at 321-841-8639.

MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando, part of Orlando Regional Healthcare, is affiliated with The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando in Houston. U.S. News & World Report recently ranked MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando as the top cancer treatment center in the U.S. and has ranked it as one of the top two cancer centers for the past 13 years. Orlando Regional, a 1,780-bed community-owned, Florida not-for-profit organization established in 1918, annually serves more than 540,000 Central Florida residents and nearly 3,000 international patients. More information is available at www.mdandersonorlando.org.

* Pink October is registered with the State of Florida by Orlando Regional Healthcare and MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando.

ORMC hosts gastric banding weight loss surgery information sessions

10/3/2007 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, Fla. (October 2, 2007) --- Clinicians from Orlando Regional Medical Center invite perspective patients to free information sessions to help weigh their options for gastric banding surgery. The laparoscopic procedure, known as the LAP-BAND® System, is an adjustable gastric band that reduces the stomach capacity and restricts the amount of food that can be consumed at one time. The minimally invasive procedure does not require stomach cutting and stapling or gastrointestinal re-routing to bypass normal digestion.

During the information sessions, a bariatric surgeon, registered nurse, licensed clinical social worker and patient business representatives will be available for in-depth discussion on various topics including the procedure, the program components, emotional perspectives, and procedure costs and steps to take for possible insurance reimbursement.

ORMC’s Bariatric Surgery Weight Loss Program began earlier this year to provide a weight loss surgery option to patients who are unable to achieve a healthy weight by traditional means. The comprehensive program includes patient education and a rigorous pre-screening process to evaluate important factors such as mental health and commitment to lifestyle changes. The program also includes post-surgery support in nutrition, fitness and other areas. Patients recover in a designated patient care unit.

Details about the information sessions follow:

Gastric Banding Weight Loss Surgery Information Session:

Dates and Locations
Thursday, October 18, 6:30 p.m., ORMC, 1414 Kuhl Ave., Multipurpose Room A
Thursday, November 15, 6:30 p.m., ORMC, 1414 Kuhl Ave., Multipurpose Room A
Thursday, December 20, 6:30 p.m., ORMC, 1414 Kuhl Ave., Multipurpose Room A
Thursday, January 17, 6:30 p.m., ORMC, 1414 Kuhl Ave., Multipurpose Room A

Parking
Complimentary parking available with registration in A Deck garage on Copeland Avenue, directly across from ORMC main entrance.

Additional Information
www.orlandoregional.org/weightloss or call 321-841-7070.

Orlando Regional Healthcare, a 1,780-bed private, not-for-profit organization was established in 1918. The hospital system serves 1.6 million Central Florida residents and nearly 3,000 international patients annually. Physicians are independent contractors and are not employees of Orlando Regional Healthcare or its subsidiaries. As a community-owned organization, Orlando Regional reinvests its profits into many one-of-a-kind, specialized services like Central Florida’s only Level One Trauma Center and statutory teaching hospital. Another unique service is Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children’s 23,500-square-foot, 33-bed Children’s Emergency Department & Trauma Center. U.S.News & World Report ranked Orlando Regional Healthcare as one of the nation’s best hospitals, Fortune magazine recognized Orlando Regional as one of the Top 100 Companies to Work for in America and the Herman Group designated Orlando Regional Healthcare an Employer of Choice.

Women Playing for T.I.M.E. Celebrates 15th Anniversary with Goal to Raise $1 Million for MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando

10/2/2007 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, Fla. (October 3, 2007) – Raising $1 million in one year for MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando is no small goal, but Women Playing for T.I.M.E. ™ (Technology, Immediate Diagnosis, Mammography and Education) is no ordinary volunteer group. This October, the ladies of Women Playing for T.I.M.E. (WPFT) celebrate their 15th anniversary of hosting all-women charity golf and tennis tournaments. Since 1993, WPFT has raised more than $6 million for breast cancer research and programs at the center, averaging $450,000 a year. To celebrate their past accomplishments and set a high benchmark for WPFT’s continued success, the group is more than doubling their past goals to $1 million.

WPFT’s signature event is the two day golf tournament which routinely sells out months in advance. This year’s tournament – which is already completely booked - will be held at the Lake Nona Golf & Country Club, 9100 Chiltern Dr., Orlando, on Oct. 29 and 30. More than 130 women from across the country participate in the golf tournament each year. The ladies will also host numerous charity tennis events held at clubs across Central Florida throughout October.

The ladies hope to encourage their friends, family and neighbors to make donations to WPFT and take a swing against the disease that has plagued so many of their lives. “It’s amazing the difference this group has had on the cancer community,” said Elaine Lustig, co-founder of WPFT. “I’m confident our fundraising and public awareness efforts have led to better treatment of women suffering from cancer. And, after 15 years, Women Playing for T.I.M.E. shows no signs of slowing down.”

To join the fight against breast cancer or learn more about WPFT please contact Lynda Canatay, events manager, at 321-841-2272.

M. D. Anderson Cancer Center Orlando, part of Orlando Regional Healthcare, is affiliated with The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando in Houston. U.S. News & World Report recently ranked M. D. Anderson Cancer Center as the top cancer treatment center in the U.S. and has ranked it as one of the top two cancer centers for the past 13 years. Orlando Regional, a 1,780-bed community-owned, Florida not-for-profit organization established in 1918, annually serves more than 540,000 Central Florida residents and nearly 3,000 international patients. More information is available at www.mdandersonorlando.org.

Owens & Minor Announced as Presenting Sponsor

9/19/2007 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, FL (September 19, 2007) - The Arnold Palmer Medical Center Foundation announced today that the Owens & Minor is the new presenting sponsor for its 16th Annual Bert Martin’s Champions for Children on November 3 - 5. The event will be held at Arnold Palmer’s Bay Hill Club & Lodge.

Owens & Minor is a supply-chain solutions company and the nation’s leading distributor of name-brand medical and surgical supplies. The company serves more than 4,000 acute-care hospital customers nationwide. This year’s funds will support the Bert Martin Champions for Children Emergency Department & Trauma Center.

“We are extremely pleased to have Owens & Minor as our presenting sponsor. This level of support is a tremendous example of community citizenship that we hope will be followed by others,” said John Bozard, president, Arnold Palmer Medical Center Foundation.

Champions for Children was created 16 years ago to fund the highest priority needs of Arnold Palmer Hospital. The Champions for Children Executive Committee pledged $5 million to support the addition of a Children’s Emergency Department & Trauma Center at the hospital, which will care for more than 60,000 children a year in need of specialized emergency and trauma care services.

PGA and LPGA golfers will tee off at 8:30 a.m., on Monday, November 5, with business professionals from around the country in the annual pro/am tournament hosted by professional golfer Arnold Palmer.

Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children, supported by the Arnold Palmer Medical Center Foundation, is a 158-bed facility dedicated exclusively to the needs of children. Located in Orlando, Arnold Palmer Hospital includes comprehensive, specialized programs and services for children including acute care, adolescent medicine, a Congenital Heart Institute in partnership with Miami Children’s Hospital, pediatric intensive care, emergency medicine, nephrology, neurology and trauma services to name a few. To learn more, visit www.arnoldpalmerhospital.org.

Set of Symptoms Speaks Volumes for “Silent Killer”

9/14/2007 12:00:00 AM

Unlike breast and prostate cancers, there is no effective general screening test for ovarian cancer – one of the deadliest forms of gynecologic cancer. The disease is relatively rare when compared to other cancers which strike women, but 75 percent of ovarian cancers are found in advanced stages when treatment options are limited.

Until recently, there was very little women could do on their own to detect the onset of the disease. In July, the Gynecologic Cancer Foundation announced the first national consensus on ovarian cancer symptoms.

While the symptoms are somewhat vague, Alan Gordon, MD, a board-certified gynecologic oncologist and Gynecologic Oncology Specialty Section leader at MD Anderson – Orlando, urges women to be aware of the following group of symptoms and recognize noticeable changes in their bodies which last for several weeks of time.

The symptoms are:

Bloating
Pelvic or abdominal pain
Difficulty eating or feeling full quickly
Urinary symptoms (urgency or frequency)

“We don’t want women to panic if they experience one of these symptoms on its own,” said Dr. Gordon. “It’s important that women be on the look out for a group of two or more of these symptoms and notice the severity and frequency of the onset. If the symptoms last several weeks or worsen over time, it’s time to see the doctor.”

Research suggests women with ovarian cancer were much more likely than the general population suffer from this group of symptoms. The disease is 90 percent curable when diagnosed early, but many cancers go undiagnosed until it’s too late. That’s why women need to be aware of any changes in their bodies and receive regular pelvic examinations.

MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando Performs First Thoracic Surgery in Central Florida Using Robotic Surgical System

9/5/2007 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, Fla. (September 5, 2007) – The surge in minimally invasive surgeries continues at MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando with Central Florida’s first thoracic surgery using the da Vinci™ Surgical System. Thoracic Surgeon Luis Herrera, MD, will conduct the area’s first thoracic robotic procedure on September 6 to remove a benign mediastinal tumor that has been causing chest pain and pressure in his patient.

The da Vinci system has been in use at Orlando Regional Medical Center since July 2006 with surgeons most often using the technology to help prostate and gynecologic cancer patients. Now they are offering the minimally invasive procedure to thoracic patients who would otherwise received conventional open surgeries.

“The procedure has similar effects as a laparoscopic or thoracoscopic treatment on patients – less pain, less blood loss, shorter recovery - but also allows doctors to have more range of motion during the surgery as well as a magnified three-dimensional view of the treatment area,” said Dr. Herrera.

During traditional open surgeries, patients undergo a 15 centimeter incision along with rib spreading. Video-assisted or laparoscopic surgeries are performed using small incisions, but the visualization is not enhanced and the instruments are fixed in one axis. The minimally invasive option using the da Vinci surgery enhances minimally invasive surgeries by providing a magnified view and articulating instruments. The surgery will entail three to five incisions just centimeters in length. Dr. Herrera will insert robotic arms through three of the openings, one to hold a tiny camera that provides magnified images and two others to hold small surgical instruments that make every move that his wrists can make and will allow him to get into tight places that would normally require a large incision.

The surgeon will then sit at a console a few feet away from the patient and remotely control the miniature surgical instruments in real-time. An assistant surgeon stands at the operative table to operate through a small access port for retraction. The robotic system eliminates essentially all hand tremors and allows performance of very precise movements.

Intuitive Surgery, the manufacturer of da Vinci, says this first thoracic surgery using robotic technology is a big step towards Orlando Regional Healthcare building one of the most comprehensive robotic surgical teams in the state.

MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando, part of Orlando Regional Healthcare, is affiliated with The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando in Houston. U.S. News & World Report recently ranked MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando as the top cancer treatment center in the U.S. and has ranked it as one of the top two cancer centers for the past 13 years. Orlando Regional, a 1,780-bed community-owned, Florida not-for-profit organization established in 1918, annually serves more than 540,000 Central Florida residents and nearly 3,000 international patients. More information is available at www.mdandersonorlando.org.

9th Annual Miracle Miles 15K, 5K & Kids’ Fun Runs Presented by Chick-fil-A®

9/4/2007 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, FL (September 4, 2007) -- Runners from across Central Florida, the state and southeast will participate in the 9^th Annual Miracle Miles 15K and 5K runs on Saturday, September 29, at Winnie Palmer Hospital for Women & Babies, 83 W. Miller Street, Orlando. The 15K run begins at 7 a.m. followed by the 5K at 7:10 a.m. A Kids’ Fun Run will be held at 9:30 a.m. Proceeds from the event benefit the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit at Winnie Palmer Hospital.

“We are very excited about this year’s race as the response has been tremendous from both runners and community sponsors,” explained Dr. Gregor Alexander, neonatologist, Winnie Palmer Hospital and founding physician of Miracle Miles. “We are also grateful for the support of our presenting sponsor – Chick-fil-A. Through their support and that of everyone involved with Miracle Miles, many tiny lives will be saved and forever touched.”

More than 1,200 premature babies are cared for every year in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit at Winnie Palmer Hospital. The 112-bed unit is the fourth largest Neonatal Intensive Care Unit in the country with Level II and Level III beds for the highest level of care for the tiniest, most seriously ill babies. Additionally, it is one of only four in the state to provide Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation (ECMO), a heart-lung bypass procedure for babies with severe lung or heart failure.

Entry fees through Saturday, September 22, are $23 – 15K; $18 – 5K and from September 23 – 28, $26 – 15K; $20 – 5K. Day of registration is $30 for the 15K and $25 for the 5K. The Kids’ Fun Run is free. Participants can register online through September 27 at www.trackshack.com. Miracle Miles is the third largest 15K in Florida and the largest one in Orlando. For more information, call (407) 898-1313.

Winnie Palmer Hospital for Women & Babies, supported by Arnold Palmer Medical Center Foundation, is a 285-bed facility dedicated exclusively to the needs of women and babies. The hospital includes comprehensive fetal diagnostics and labor and delivery services, a regional center for neonatal intensive care, maternal intensive care and women’s services. Annually, more than 14,000 babies are born at Winnie Palmer Hospital, making it the busiest labor and delivery unit in the state of Florida. To learn more, visit www.winniepalmerhospital.org.

MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando Receives Public Relations Award for Super Colon Campaign

8/30/2007 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, Fla. (August 30, 2007) – The Super Colon’s visit to MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando during Colorectal Awareness Month in March was met with a few chuckles, but the public relations campaign was met with a big round of applause at the Florida Public Relations Association’s (FPRA) Gold Image Awards in August. Michelle Lynch, MAMC, MD Anderson – Orlando brand marketing consultant, and Christine Martinez, APR, MD Anderson – Orlando media relations consultant, received an Award of Distinction from FPRA for a public relations program in the public service category.

Super Colon is a 20-foot long, 8-foot high inflatable replica of the human colon that shows healthy colon tissue, various stages of colorectal cancer and signs of non-malignant colorectal diseases like Crohn’s and colitis. The campaign, “Super Colon: Helping Central Floridians Digest Information about Colon Cancer” attracted 600 visitors and 150 people attended MD Anderson – Orlando’s education series about nation’s second deadliest form of cancer.

MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando, part of Orlando Regional Healthcare, is affiliated with The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando in Houston. U.S. News & World Report recently ranked MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando as the top cancer treatment center in the U.S. and has ranked it as one of the top two cancer centers for the past 13 years. Orlando Regional, a 1,780-bed community-owned, Florida not-for-profit organization established in 1918, annually serves more than 540,000 Central Florida residents and nearly 3,000 international patients. More information is available at www.mdandersonorlando.org.

Multi-function wheelchair at Orlando Regional offers patients a new way to travel through life

8/17/2007 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, Fla. (August 17, 2007) --- The Orlando Regional Rehabilitation Institute is helping patients with spinal cord injuries move in new directions. As a designated site, the team evaluates and trains individuals with spinal cord injuries to use the INDEPENDENCE® iBOT® 4000 Mobility System, by Independence Technology, which offers a new way to perform invaluable dialy functions at a higher level of self-sufficiency. Users can go up and down stairs/curbs; reach high objects; elevate at eye-to-eye level; sit comfortably at a desk; and travel over uneven terrain, like gravel or grass.

The Orlando Regional Rehabilitation Institute is one of only 3 iBOT® evaluation centers in Florida. As an evaluation center, Orlando Regional also provides assessments to determine if someone meets the necessary medical qualifications.

The iBOT® 4000 Mobility System’s patented iBALANCE® Technology is an integrated combination of sensor and software components that work together to mimic the principles of human balance. The iBOT® is custom programmed and calibrated to the user’s center of gravity, allowing the device to stabilize the user by realigning and adjusting wheel position and seat orientation.

"The iBOT® is far beyond a mode of transportation to move from one room or one place to another," said Rod Olson, PT, outpatient rehabilitation manager. "The impact on a person`s life can be far reaching. What is most remarkable is how the system makes a person feel. From performing tasks in the home to interacting with others in the workplace and other environments, the new level of movement can add greater independence and help enhance life even more."

Dr. David Portée, medical director of Orlando Regional Healthcare Rehabilitation Services, was involved with implementing the iBOT program at the Rehabilitation Institute and helps evaluate patients to test drive the iBOT.

"The iBOT® is a wonderful piece of equipment that can restore a level of independence many patients who are wheelchair-confined thought they perhaps had lost forever," Dr. Portée says. "However, it`s not appropriate for all patients. Among the many requirements, the prospective user must have the mental agility to command its many functions."

The iBOT® Mobility System is available for individuals who have mobility impairments and the use of at least one upper extremity. Restrictions for iBOT® use include weighing less than 75 pounds or greater than 250 pounds (total including the person and items they carry); insufficient hand function and other medical indications.

Orlando Regional Healthcare, a 1,780-bed private, not-for-profit organization was established in 1918. The hospital system serves 1.6 million Central Florida residents and nearly 3,000 international patients annually. Physicians are independent contractors and are not employees of Orlando Regional Healthcare or its subsidiaries. As a community-owned organization, Orlando Regional reinvests its profits into many one-of-a-kind, specialized services like Central Florida’s only Level One Trauma Center and statutory teaching hospital. Another unique service is Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children’s 23,500-square-foot, 33-bed Children’s Emergency Department & Trauma Center. U.S.News & World Report ranked Orlando Regional Healthcare as one of the nation’s best hospitals, Fortune magazine recognized Orlando Regional as one of the Top 100 Companies to Work for in America and the Herman Group designated Orlando Regional Healthcare an Employer of Choice. More information is available at www.orlandoregional.org.

Independence Technology, a Johnson & Johnson company, is dedicated to helping people with disabilities live their lives with greater freedom. The company, headquartered in Warren, NJ utilizes the latest technologies to develop cutting-edge products and services. The iBOT® Mobility System was invented by Dean Kamen, founder of DEKA Research and Development.
Johnson & Johnson partnered with DEKA in 1995 to develop the iBOT®Mobility System. For additional information about Independence Technology and the INDEPENDENCE® iBOT® 4000 Mobility System, please visit www.ibotnow.com or call: (866) 813-0789.

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Miniature Wireless Transponders Help MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando Oncologists Better Target Prostate Cancer

8/14/2007 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, Fla. (August 14, 2007) – They are hardly the size of a grain of rice, but the Beacon® wireless transponders used with the Calypso® 4D Localization System at MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando are making big improvements in the care of men battling prostate cancer. Clinicians use the Beacon® transponders to guide the radiation specifically to tumors, while sparing the healthy tissue in the vital organs surrounding the prostate.

“Until recently, doctors relied heavily on daily x-rays to determine the ever-changing location of the prostate gland and correctly target radiation treatment. While effective, the method did not allow for continuous, real-time monitoring of the patient in the treatment room, which meant small movements –even breathing—could misdirect the radiation beam,” said Patrick Kupelian, MD, leader of the radiation oncology and genitourinary cancer sections at MD Anderson – Orlando.

MD Anderson – Orlando oncologists can now implant miniature transponders in the cancerous areas of the prostate and use the Calypso 4D Localization System to activate the transponders during radiation treatment to track the position and motion of the prostate moment by moment – with readings 10 times per second. The system also alerts radiation therapists when the cancerous area has moved out of range so that the beam can be shut off and the patient can be repositioned.

“Unlike x-rays, the Calypso 4D Localization System does not emit radiation and does not add any radiation that would have been delivered while trying to image the target with the daily X-rays. The patient receives only the radiation intended for the actual treatment,” said Dr. Kupelian. “Since the system better targets the treatment area, doctors can administer higher doses of radiation to smaller areas in the body without fear of damaging surrounding healthy tissue.”

The system received FDA clearance for prostate cancer use in July 2006. MD Anderson – Orlando, along with Dr. Kupelian as principal investigator, was one of five research sites in the nation to study the effectiveness of the Calypso 4D Localization System before it was available to the general public. The system is one of the standard treatment methods at MD Anderson – Orlando for prostate cancer patients.

Please see the fact sheet for more detailed information about the Calypso 4D Localization System.

Orlando Regional Healthcare Sponsors Greater Orlando Heart Walk

8/14/2007 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, Fla. (August 14, 2007) --- Orlando Regional Healthcare team members are stepping it up in the fight against heart disease and stroke. As a Silver Sponsor in the 2007 Greater Orlando Heart Walk, the hospital joins the local American Heart Association in the annual walk at 8 a.m., on Saturday, Sept. 29, at Loch Haven Park in Orlando.

“As our nation’s leading cause of death for women and men, heart disease is a community concern,” said Jayne Willis, patient care administrator, Cardiovascular Services and the hospital’s corporate leader for the walk. “Becoming a sponsor is a way to participate in a heart healthy initiative to help educate the community about prevention, warning signs and symptoms and kick start a commitment towards a healthier lifestyle.”

Heartfelt teams including Hearts of Gold, The Thumpers, Energy in Transit and The Cardiac Rehab Heart Throbs represent walkers from Orlando Regional’s downtown and community hospitals.

In addition to walking for a heart healthy community, Orlando Regional Wellness Center team members will lead warm-up exercises. The hospital will also host an information booth.

Fundraising efforts for the walk will help fund research, community education initiatives to help end disabilities and deaths due to heart disease.

For more information about the Heart Walk, contact the local American Heart Association at (407) 843-1330.

Orlando Regional Healthcare, a 1,780-bed private, not-for-profit organization was established in 1918. The hospital system serves 1.6 million Central Florida residents and nearly 3,000 international patients annually. Physicians are independent contractors and are not employees of Orlando Regional Healthcare or its subsidiaries. As a community-owned organization, Orlando Regional reinvests its profits into many one-of-a-kind, specialized services like Central Florida’s only Level One Trauma Center and statutory teaching hospital. Another unique service is Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children’s 23,500-square-foot, 33-bed Children’s Emergency Department & Trauma Center. U.S.News & World Report ranked Orlando Regional Healthcare as one of the nation’s best hospitals, Fortune magazine recognized Orlando Regional as one of the Top 100 Companies to Work for in America and the Herman Group designated Orlando Regional Healthcare an Employer of Choice. More information is available at www.orlandoregional.org.

Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children Holds Ribbon Cutting for New Pediatric Emergency Department & Trauma Center

8/9/2007 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, FL (August 9, 2007) – A ribbon-cutting ceremony was held today for the new Bert Martin’s Champions for Children Emergency Department & Trauma Center at Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children.

The 23,500 square-foot facility includes 29 private rooms tripling the number previously located at Orlando Regional Medical Center. The four-bed resuscitation/trauma room is dedicated exclusively to children and is part of the Orlando Regional Level One Trauma Center, the only one of its kind in Central Florida.

“We are very excited to introduce our new pediatric emergency department and trauma center to our community,” said John Bozard, president, Arnold Palmer Hospital. “This expansion of emergency and trauma services will allow us to treat 30,000 pediatric patients annually, growing to an expected 60,000 children within the next five years.”

The facility is staffed by a medical team that includes physicians board certified in pediatric emergency medicine, emergency medicine and pediatric surgery. They also have access to sub-specialists in various areas including pediatric cardiology, endocrinology, hematology/oncology, nephrology, neurology, orthopedics, plastic surgery, pulmonology and urology.

The $11 million addition was funded fully by philanthropic support by individuals and organizations including the Bert W. Martin Foundation, Champions for Children and the Greater Orlando Children’s Miracle Network.

“We thank everyone who gave so generously to this facility and to the children of our community,” said Bozard. “Their gifts will help save young lives every day for generations to come.”

Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children, supported by the Arnold Palmer Medical Center Foundation, is a 158-bed facility dedicated exclusively to the needs of children. Located in Orlando, Arnold Palmer Hospital includes comprehensive, specialized programs and services for children including acute care, adolescent medicine, a Congenital Heart Institute in partnership with Miami Children’s Hospital, pediatric intensive care, emergency medicine, nephrology, neurology and trauma services to name a few. To learn more, visit www.arnoldpalmerhospital.org.

ARNOLD PALMER HOSPITAL FOR CHILDREN OFFICIALLY OPENS TOYS “R” US CHILDREN’S FUND-STARLIGHT SITE

8/6/2007 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO – July 30, 2007 – On August 2, Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children will unveil a new Toys “R” Us Children’s Fund-Starlight Site, a state-of-the-art playroom created in partnership with the Starlight Starbright Children’s Foundation. The unveiling is part of a $7 million, multi-year donation made by the Toys “R” Us Children’s Fund to Starlight Starbright for the construction and renovation of kids’ playrooms in hospitals across the country.

The site will be dedicated at 11:00 am, in the playroom, with pediatric patients and their families in attendance. Additional attendees at the dedication will include Toys “R” Us mascot Geoffrey and local Toys “R” Us and Babies “R” Us representatives; representatives from the Starlight Starbright Children’s Foundation and hospital leadership.

“Toys “R” Us and the Toys “R” Us Children’s Fund are committed to improving the quality of life for children,” said Kathleen Waugh, Chairman Toys “R” Us Children’s Fund, Inc. “Through these playrooms, we hope to bring much-needed joy and play time to pediatric patients at Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children.”

With play areas for infants, toddlers and older children, the specially designed Starlight Site will serve as a relaxing and carefree space for the hospital’s pediatric patients and will include new toys purchased with a $1,000 gift card from Toys “R” Us at their 730 Herndon Avenue store.

“We are very excited about our new playroom and appreciate the support of the Starlight Starbright Children’s Foundation and Toys “R” Us Children’s Fund,” said Sheri Mosely, child life manager, Arnold Palmer Hospital. “Thanks to their generosity our patients have a fun place to come to with new furniture, cabinetries to hold all of the donated toys and great wall colors to help them forget they are in a hospital. All of this compliments the high-tech electronics already in the room to for our kids to enjoy.”

In Support of a Growing Trend

The Toys “R” Us Children’s Fund-Starlight Starbright partnership is an example of a movement in hospital care as hospitals are addressing patients’ needs by teaming up with the private sector. In addition, the playroom program addresses the burgeoning, nationwide hospital trend of looking at a patient’s environment as an important factor in the healing process.

“For children confined to a hospital, the opportunity to have fun in a well-equipped, inviting atmosphere assists in the healing process,” said Alison Cosgrove, director of Starlight Starbright’s Florida Office. “While play experiences are valuable in their own right, they also provide children an opportunity to express their feelings, release stress and learn new skills. Our partnership with Toys “R” Us allows us to enhance the quality of our site program and bring countless hours of therapeutic fun to the children who need it most.”

About Starlight Starbright Children’s Foundation

When a child or teenager has a serious medical condition, everyone in the family is affected. For more than two decades, Starlight Starbright Children’s Foundation has dedicated itself to helping seriously ill children and their families cope with their pain, fear and isolation through entertainment, education and family activities. Starlight Starbright’s programs have been proven to distract children from their pain, help them better understand and manage their illnesses, and connect families facing similar challenges so that no one feels alone. Serving more than 6,500 children in Florida each month and 180,000 throughout the U.S., Starlight Starbright’s array of outpatient, hospital-based and Web offerings provide ongoing support for children and families — before, during and after medical treatment. To learn more visit www.starlight.org or www.starlight-florida.org.

About Toys “R” Us Children’s Fund

Since it was founded in 1992, the Toys “R” Us Children’s Fund, Inc. has donated millions of dollars each year to organizations and charities that help children and infants in need. Because children are the heart and soul of our business, the “R” Us family has a strong sense of responsibility to do whatever we can to make the lives of children happier and healthier. Funds raised through the Toys “R” Us Children’s Fund are used to support numerous worthwhile organizations, including the Starlight Starbright Children’s Foundation, Autism Speaks, the Marine Toys for Tots Foundation, Children Affected by AIDS Foundation, National Lekotek Center, and Kids In Distressed Situations (K.I.D.S.), among many others.

About Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children

Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children, supported by the Arnold Palmer Medical Center Foundation, is a 158-bed facility dedicated exclusively to the needs of children. Located in Orlando, Arnold Palmer Hospital includes comprehensive, specialized programs and services for children including acute care, adolescent medicine, a Congenital Heart Institute in partnership with Miami Children’s Hospital, pediatric intensive care, emergency medicine, nephrology, neurology and trauma services to name a few. To learn more, visit www.arnoldpalmerhospital.org.

MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando Receives Presidential Award from the Florida Hospital Association

8/1/2007 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, Fla. (Aug. 1, 2007) – The pink, pearl-lined purse looks more like a flashy accessory than a sponsorship packet, and that’s exactly why the Florida Hospital Association’s Florida Society of Healthcare Public Relations and Marketing (FSHPRM) recognized MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando with both its Best of Show and Presidential Awards. MD Anderson – Orlando’s Women Playing for T.I.M.E.® (Technology, Immediate Diagnosis, Mammography, Education) event materials were honored at the annual FSHPRM Mark of Excellence awards banquet in Naples on July 18, with the association’s top awards. The Best of Show Award signified the top entry from each of the 10 categories and the Presidential Award honored the overall best entry.

The Orlando Regional Healthcare Creative Services team designed the materials for MD Anderson – Orlando to commemorate the 15^th anniversary of Women Playing for T.I.M.E. (WPFT) and promote fundraising events throughout the year. The materials were inspired by the elegance, femininity and busy lifestyle of the WPFT participants. The entry included a sponsorship packet which resembled a day planner, a golf scramble invitation modeled after an address book and an invitation to the two-day Lake Nona golf tournament which looked like a spiral notebook. All of the materials were delivered in a handbag fashioned out of pink paper and pearls. Standard Register generously donated printing services for the elaborate sponsorship packet.

“WPFT is a group of energetic, stylish, innovative women, and we wanted the sponsorship packet to be representative of that,” said Cheryl Collins, director of event planning and major gifts for Orlando Regional Healthcare Foundation. “The materials not only communicated the importance of the fundraising events for breast cancer programs at MD Anderson – Orlando, but also showed how fun it could be to get involved.”

MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando, part of Orlando Regional Healthcare, is affiliated with The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando in Houston. U.S. News & World Report recently ranked MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando as the top cancer treatment center in the U.S. and has ranked it as one of the top two cancer centers for the past 13 years. Orlando Regional, a 1,780-bed community-owned, Florida not-for-profit organization established in 1918, annually serves more than 540,000 Central Florida residents and nearly 3,000 international patients. More information is available at www.mdandersonorlando.org.

Gynecologic Oncologist Joins MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando’s Team of Specialists

7/31/2007 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, Fla. (July 30, 2007) – Alan Gordon, MD, joins MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando as the gynecologic oncology specialty section leader. Dr. Gordon is a board-certified gynecologic oncologist and is a leader in the area of ovarian cancer research.

Dr. Gordon completed a fellowship in gynecologic oncology from The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando. He completed an internship and residency in gynecology and obstetrics from the Johns Hopkins University Hospital. Dr. Gordon also earned his medical degree from the John Hopkins University School of Medicine.

In 2001, Dr. Gordon was honored for excellence in teaching with a National Faculty Award from the American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology. He has served as a faculty member at Baylor College of Medicine, Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Texas Tech University’s Health Sciences Center and the University of Arizona.

A principal investigator for several national studies, Dr. Gordon has presented frequently at American Society of Clinical Oncology conferences and many international meetings. He has been senior author on a number of peer-reviewed articles dealing with ovarian cancer. Additionally, he serves on the editorial board for the journal Gynecologic Oncology.

M. D. Anderson Cancer Center Orlando, part of Orlando Regional Healthcare, is affiliated with The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando in Houston. U.S. News & World Report recently ranked MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando as the top cancer treatment center in the U.S. and has ranked it as one of the top two cancer centers for the past 13 years. Orlando Regional, a 1,780-bed community-owned, Florida not-for-profit organization established in 1918, annually serves more than 540,000 Central Florida residents and nearly 3,000 international patients. More information is available at www.mdandersonorlando.org.

Dr. P. Phillips Hospital Receives VHA Leadership Award for Clinical Excellence

7/23/2007 12:00:00 AM

Orlando, Florida (July 23, 2007) --- Dr. P. Phillips Hospital received a 2007 VHA Leadership Award for Clinical Excellence from VHA Inc., a national health care alliance. The award honors hospitals for meeting or exceeding national performance standards for clinical care in specific areas. Dr. Phillips Hospital was recognized for its Rapid Response Team.

The Rapid Response Team, comprised of specially trained registered nurses and respiratory therapists, brings critical care expertise to the bedside at a moment’s notice when patients face certain respiratory and neurological conditions that require immediate attention.

“Implementing the Rapid Response Team builds on our commitment to providing safer, more effective care for patients,” said Phyllis Byles, patient care services administrator, Dr. P. Phillips Hospital. “The interventions performed by the team have made a positive impact on patient outcomes.”

VHA serves more than 2,400 health care organizations nationwide, including 1,400 hospitals. VHA reviewed the performance of its members in 2006 and 277 member hospitals won Clinical Excellence awards for achievements in at least one of seven clinical categories.

"At the heart of the covenant between patients and hospitals lies the belief that clinical excellence is paramount," said Trent Haywood, M.D., J.D., chief medical officer at VHA. “Dr. P. Phillips Hospital is a shining example of what can be achieved when a hospital`s actions are guided by the pursuit of clinical excellence."

Orlando Regional Healthcare, a 1,780-bed private, not-for-profit organization was established in 1918. The hospital system serves 1.6 million Central Florida residents and nearly 3,000 international patients annually. As a community-owned organization, Orlando Regional reinvests its profits into many one-of-a-kind, specialized services like Central Florida’s only Level One Trauma Center and statutory teaching hospital. Another unique service is Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children’s 23,500-square-foot, 33-bed Children’s Emergency Department & Trauma Center scheduled to open in Summer 2007. U.S.News & World Report ranked Orlando Regional Healthcare as one of the nation’s best hospitals, Fortune magazine recognized Orlando Regional as one of the Top 100 Companies to Work for in America and the Herman Group designated Orlando Regional Healthcare an Employer of Choice. More information is available at www.orlandoregional.org.

Patients at Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children to Talk with Astronaut on the International Space Station

7/13/2007 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, FL (July 13, 2007) – Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children is the first hospital in the world to launch patients into orbit via telephone lines. In conjunction with NASA, the out of this world connection is being made through the Amateur Radio International Space Station program (ARISS). Pediatric patients will talk with U.S. Astronaut Clay Anderson on the International Space Station at 2:20 p.m., on Tuesday, July 17, at Arnold Palmer Hospital, 92 W. Miller Street, Orlando.

Patients will have a chance to ask questions about what it is like at the International Space Station, the type of work done there and other aspects of space travel.

“We’re very excited about ARISS bringing their program to our patients as it will be a fun activity that will lift their spirits,” said Sheri Mosely, child life manager for Arnold Palmer Hospital. “Talking with an astronaut is definitely a once in a lifetime opportunity and one we hope they’ll never forget.”

ARISS typically works with schools around the United States and in eight International Space Station partner countries giving students an opportunity to experience the excitement of Amateur Radio by talking directly with crewmembers on the International Space Station.

Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children, supported by the Arnold Palmer Medical Center Foundation, is a 158-bed facility dedicated exclusively to the needs of children. Located in Orlando, Arnold Palmer Hospital includes comprehensive, specialized programs and services for children including acute care, adolescent medicine, a Congenital Heart Institute in partnership with Miami Children’s Hospital, pediatric intensive care, emergency medicine, nephrology, neurology and trauma services to name a few. To learn more, visit www.arnoldpalmerhospital.org.

MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando Expands its Nuclear Medicine Team

7/9/2007 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, Fla. (July 9, 2007) – MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando recently formed a new team of nuclear medicine physicians to enhance diagnostic nuclear medicine services for cancer patients. The Nuclear Medicine department includes Medical Director Richard Lovas, MD, and Nuclear Medicine Physicians Luke Bolek, MD, Mary Hart, MD, and Robert McDonald, MD.

Dr. Lovas has been working with Orlando Regional Healthcare since the mid-1980s as a staff pathologist and nuclear medicine physician. Prior to joining Orlando Regional, Dr. Lovas worked in Nuclear Medicine at Wilkes-Barre General Hospital in Pennsylvania.

Dr. Lovas received his undergraduate degree from The Polytechnic Institute of Brooklyn and studied medicine at both the University of Antwerp Medical School in Belgium and New York Medical College in Valhalla. He completed a residency in pathology at New York University Medical Center and a residency in nuclear medicine at St. Vincent’s Hospital and Medical Center in New York City. Dr. Lovas then went on to complete a residency in anatomic pathology at Orlando Regional Medical Center.

Dr. Bolek received a bachelor’s degree in biology from Carroll College in Waukesha, Wis., and earned his medical degree from the Medical College of Wisconsin in Milwaukee. He completed his residency at William Beaumont Hospital in Mich., where he served as chief resident of Nuclear Medicine. He then pursued a fellowship in Positron Emission Tomography (PET) in the Department of Radiology at the University of Iowa.

Dr. Hart completed her bachelor’s in English at St. Lawrence University in Canton, N.Y., and earned her medical degree from Tufts University School of Medicine at Boston. She completed both an internship and residency in internal medicine at Walter Reed Army Medical Center in Washington, D.C. She went on to complete a residency in nuclear medicine at the University of Texas at San Antonio and Brook Army Medical Center. Most recently, she worked in the Nuclear Medicine department of Morton Plant Hospital in Clearwater, Fla., where she was partner of Clearwater Imaging Associates.

Rounding out the team is Robert McDonald, MD. He joined the center from the Southwest Florida Regional Medical Center & Radiology Regional Center in Fort Myers, Fla., where he was medical director of Nuclear Medicine. Dr. McDonald received his undergraduate degree in biology from Virginia Polytechnic Institute & State University in Blacksburg, Va., and his medical degree from the Medical College of Virginia at Virginia Commonwealth University in Richmond. He completed residencies in nuclear medicine and pathology at the University of California Irvine Medical Center in Orange, Calif., and a residency in internal medicine at Brown University – Roger Williams General Hospital in Providence, R.I.

M. D. Anderson Cancer Center Orlando, part of Orlando Regional Healthcare, is affiliated with The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando in Houston. U.S. News & World Report recently ranked MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando as the top cancer treatment center in the U.S. and has ranked it as one of the top two cancer centers for the past 13 years. Orlando Regional, a 1,780-bed community-owned, Florida not-for-profit organization established in 1918, annually serves more than 540,000 Central Florida residents and nearly 3,000 international patients. More information is available at www.mdandersonorlando.org.

Orlando Regional adds specialists to its Internal Medicine and Infectious Disease Practice

7/7/2007 12:00:00 AM

Orlando, Fla. (June 7, 2007) --- Orlando Regional Healthcare recently added two new doctors to its Internal Medicine and Infectious Disease Practice, located at 77 Underwood Street, Suite 4B, Orlando. Mark R. Wallace, M.D. and Asim A. Jani, M.D. bring expertise from a diverse background in education, patient care, teaching and research.

Dr. Mark Wallace graduated cum laude from St. Louis University School of Medicine. He was named Resident of the Year at the University of Washington and completed a fellowship in infectious disease at the Naval Medical Center in San Diego. He has had extensive training and experience in tropical medicine, including field work in the Middle East, Africa and South America. Dr. Wallace has been a clinical professor at two medical schools and has published over 170 articles in peer reviewed literature. He retired from the U.S. Navy in 2005.

In addition to joining the practice, Dr. Wallace will serve as the program director of the Infectious Disease Fellowship Program which is in the process of being developed. It is anticipated that the first fellows will begin their training in next July.

Dr. Jani previously worked with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). While at the CDC, he trained as an epidemic intelligence service officer in the Commissioned Corps of the U.S. Public Health Service and worked as a medical epidemiologist in the Coordinating Office for Global Health. He previously held several academic appointments and published articles, book chapters, monographs and abstracts. He received postgraduate degrees in medicine and public health from the University of South Florida (USF). Dr. Jani was named Outstanding Resident of the Year at Orlando Regional Medical Center and served as faculty. After completing an infectious disease fellowship at USF he worked as an HIV clinician and physician-advocate with the Florida Department of Health. He has served as medical director of the Infectious Disease Program for the Orange County Health Department.

For additional information about the Internal Medicine and Infectious Disease Practice, call 321-841-7750.

Orlando Regional Healthcare, a 1,780-bed private, not-for-profit organization was established in 1918. The hospital system serves more than 640,000 Central Florida residents and nearly 3,000 international patients annually. As a community-owned organization, Orlando Regional reinvests its profits into many one-of-a-kind, specialized services like Central Florida’s only Level One Trauma Center and statutory teaching hospital. Another unique service is Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children’s 23,500-square-foot, 33-bed Children’s Emergency Department & Trauma Center scheduled to open in Summer 2007. U.S.News & World Report ranked Orlando Regional Healthcare as one of the nation’s best hospitals, Fortune magazine recognized Orlando Regional as one of the Top 100 Companies to Work for in America and the Herman Group designated Orlando Regional Healthcare an Employer of Choice. More information is available at www.orlandoregional.org.

The Cancer Research Institute of MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando Receives Grant

7/2/2007 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, Fla. (July 2, 2007) – The Cancer Research Institute of MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando recently received a $209,520 new investigator research grant from the Bankhead-Coley Cancer Research Program to continue its study of pancreatic cancer therapies. The project’s principal investigator, Maen Abdelrahim, Ph.D., and his team are studying the growth patterns of pancreatic cancer. Dr. Abdelrahim’s earlier research identified for the first time a structural class of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs that inhibit tumor growth and metastasis. This grant will allow him to further investigate a specific panel of the non-steroidal drugs to pinpoint the most active compounds.

The Cancer Research Institute focuses on basic and translational research of several forms of cancer, including pancreatic. Pancreatic cancer is one of the most aggressive cancers. The American Cancer Society estimates 1,850 Floridians will die from the disease this year alone due to its high probability of spreading to other parts of the body as well as its rapid growth. The ultimate goal of Dr. Abdelrahim and his team’s research is to effectively use these drugs to slow the progression of pancreatic cancer.

MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando, part of Orlando Regional Healthcare, is affiliated with The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando in Houston. U.S. News & World Report recently ranked MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando as the top cancer treatment center in the U.S. and has ranked it as one of the top two cancer centers for the past 13 years. Orlando Regional, a 1,780-bed community-owned, Florida not-for-profit organization established in 1918, annually serves more than 540,000 Central Florida residents and nearly 3,000 international patients. More information is available at www.mdandersonorlando.org.

Winnie Palmer Hospital and PUSH Win PRSA Silver Anvil Award

6/22/2007 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, FL (June 22, 2007) – The public relations team at Winnie Palmer Hospital for Women & Babies along with the account and creative teams at agency-of-record PUSH won the prestigious Silver Anvil Award, sponsored by the Public Relations Society of America. The Silver Anvil, which recognizes outstanding achievement in strategic public relations and marketing planning and implementation, was presented during the 2007 Silver Anvil Awards Evening held June 14, in New York City.

“The PRSA Silver Anvil Awards are the highest watermark of success for any public relations practitioner,” said Sherry Goldman, 2007 PRSA Silver Anvil Awards chair and president, Goldman Communications Group, Inc. “We congratulate the public relations team at Winnie Palmer Hospital and the creative team at PUSH for their public relations program that incorporated measurable and sound research, planning, execution and evaluation. This program contributes to the best practices of our industry.”

Winnie Palmer Hospital for Women & Babies and PUSH received the award in the integrated communications category for the branding campaign, media relations and ribbon-cutting events surrounding the opening of the new facility. PRSA received 855 entries and Winnie Palmer Hospital was among 104 finalists and one of only 52 Silver Anvil winners. Other award winners included nationally recognized companies such as AT&T, Blockbuster, Dell, Inc., Eastman Kodak Company, Fed Ex Corp., Hallmark Cards, Johnson & Johnson, Microsoft and Xerox Corporation.

“We are very proud of the Winnie Palmer Hospital public relations team of Betsy Culpepper, Colleen Monday, Robin Kraich, Joyce Vest, Lynne Benson and Irena Byron, as well as the creative team at PUSH,” said Kathy Swanson, president of Winnie Palmer Hospital. “This is an incredible accomplishment for all of them.”

“Solid and effective integrated campaigns are key to everything PUSH does, and we could not be happier that this campaign has received such high recognition,” said Rich Wahl, PUSH COO. “Our relationship with Winnie Palmer Hospital for Women & Babies and Orlando Regional Healthcare has always produced wonderful and award-winning work and we look forward to continuing this trend.”

PUSH delivers innovative solutions that connect brands to consumers through strategic advertising, design, interactive and environmental experiences.

PUSH’s capabilities also include research, brand planning, public relations & promotions, guerilla marketing, and media planning & buying. A dynamic and growing agency, PUSH focuses on developing strategic, creative and influential work for a variety of more than 30 regional, national and international clients. For more agency information and to read PUSH’s weekly blog, visit www.pushhere.com.

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MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando Receives Grant to Further Research of Targeted Radiation Therapies

6/8/2007 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, Fla. (June 8, 2007) – For the second time this year, MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando received a research grant to further its study of targeted radiation therapies. The Radiological Society of North America’s Research & Education Foundation (R&E) recently awarded the center a one-year $29,900 seed grant to develop a three-dimensional simulation tool for external-beam radiation therapy devices. The tool will allow technicians to simulate how the actual patient treatment is executed inside the treatment room and resolve any challenges before the patient’s appointment.

Omar Zeidan, Ph.D., a senior medical physicist at MD Anderson – Orlando, is collaborating with a computer science group from Armstrong Atlantic University in Savannah, Ga., to create a web-based platform to allow users to access the simulation tool from virtually anywhere in the world. The research project, titled “Towards a Comprehensive and Accurate Three-Dimensional Visual Simulation Tool for External Beam Radiation Therapy Planning,” may be used for training and educational purposes in the future. According to the R&E Foundation, Dr. Zeidan’s research has the potential to benefit patients, residents and radiation therapy technologists.

In February, MD Anderson – Orlando received its first peer-reviewed research grant from the Florida Department of Health. The $437,000 grant, sponsored by the Bankhead-Coley Cancer Research Program, helped purchase a Calypso® 4D Localization System which maps out tumor locations in real-time, allowing for more accurate radiation delivery.

MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando, part of Orlando Regional Healthcare, is affiliated with The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando in Houston. U.S. News & World Report recently ranked MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando as the top cancer treatment center in the U.S. and has ranked it as one of the top two cancer centers for the past 13 years. Orlando Regional, a 1,780-bed community-owned, Florida not-for-profit organization established in 1918, annually serves more than 540,000 Central Florida residents and nearly 3,000 international patients. More information is available at www.mdandersonorlando.org.

Local moms are invited to take part in the “Central Florida Moms Cruise for a Cause” to benefit MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando

5/23/2007 12:00:00 AM

(Orlando, FL) May 23, 2007— CentralFloridaMoms.com, a new Web site resource for local moms and home of the Madness of Motherhood Show, a new weekly internet show and podcast designed to connect, inspire and unite moms across Central Florida, are reaching out to local moms and breast cancer survivors for the inaugural “Central Florida Moms Cruise For A Cause” setting sail September 14 from Port Canaveral. In partnership with Distinctive Escapes Luxury Travel Consultants in Lake Mary and Royal Caribbean, the three-night Bahamas cruise will bring together local moms and breast cancer survivors in an effort to raise awareness and money for breast cancer programs at
MD Anderson – Orlando. Local moms and businesses are invited to be a part of this important mission. Space is limited and although the cruise isn’t until September 14^th, the deadline for reserving space is June 10^th.

The weekly Madness of Motherhood show, which launched just last month, features Orlando mom duo Michelle Stevens and Suzette Boyette discussing hot mom topics and providing a forum for Central Florida moms to share information, tips and ideas while addressing the latest issues surrounding motherhood in society today. The show is part of a newly created Web site, www.centralfloridamoms.com, designed to provide moms access to local mom-friendly businesses and information.

“This show was created to connect local moms with each other and to showcase opportunities where we can make a difference in our community and we all know someone who has been affected by breast cancer. We thought this would be a great way to give back and get moms together for a much needed weekend getaway,” says show creator and co-host Michelle Stevens.

“We are so excited to start an annual event where moms can get together to bond and focus on important causes,” added co-host Suzette Boyette, “It will be a fun weekend with other women and it will give us all a chance to relax, rejuvenate and raise awareness of breast cancer and honor breast cancer survivors.

The cost of the trip is $400 per person, and 15 percent of each fare will be donated to MD Anderson - Orlando. Businesses can also lend their support by sponsoring a breast cancer survivor. For more information on the cruise, call Distinctive Escapes Luxury Travel Consultants today at

(407) 322-0344,or visit www.centralfloridamoms.com or www.distinctiveescapes.com.

About MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando

MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando, part of Orlando Regional Healthcare, is affiliated with The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando in Houston. U.S. News & World Report recently ranked MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando as the top cancer treatment center in the U.S. and has ranked it as one of the top two cancer centers for the past 13 years. Orlando Regional, a 1,780-bed community-owned, Florida not-for-profit organization established in 1918, annually serves more than 540,000 Central Florida residents and nearly 3,000 international patients. More information is available at www.mdandersonorlando.org.

Make Dad’s Health a Priority this Father’s Day

5/17/2007 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, Fla. (May 1, 2006) – With all the responsibilities of being a dad, it’s easy for men to neglect going to the gym, getting annual medical exams and generally staying in good health. This Father’s Day, MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando wants to make Dad’s health number one by urging him to make small lifestyle changes that could potentially save his life such as staying in shape and getting annual physical exams.

According to Patrick Kupelian, MD, medical oncologist at MD Anderson – Orlando, men need to be particularly aware of their risk for prostate cancer, one of the most prevalent cancers in men. Most of the time, men don’t experience symptoms of the disease until it is in its advanced forms, so it is very important for men ages 50 and older to see their doctor for an annual exam consisting of a blood test to measure PSA levels and a rectal exam. Those with a family history of the disease and African-American men have an increased risk of prostate cancer and should be tested annually beginning at the age of 40.

“The hope is that in our lifetime, men won’t have to die from prostate cancer thanks to regular screenings, early diagnosis and early treatment,” said Dr. Kupelian. “Annual screenings could make the difference between life and death because prostate cancer is a curable disease when caught early.”

While there is not currently a proven method for preventing the onset of prostate cancer, Dr. Kupelian says maintaining general health could slightly decrease a man’s chances of developing the disease. As a rule of thumb, keeping a healthy body weight, exercising regularly and eating lots of fruits and vegetables are good health habits for all men, not just those avoiding cancer. For more information about cancer, visit www.mdandersonorlando.org.

MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando, part of Orlando Regional Healthcare, is affiliated with The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando in Houston. U.S. News & World Report ranked MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando one of the top two cancer facilities in the nation for 2005 and has done so for the past 16 years. Orlando Regional, a 1,652-bed community-owned, Florida not-for-profit organization established in 1918, annually serves more than 640,000 Central Florida residents and 4,500 international patients.

Arnold Palmer Medical Center Foundation announces adidas as Presenting Sponsor for the 31st Annual Bert M. Warden Golden South Classic

5/17/2007 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, FL (May 17, 2007) -- The Arnold Palmer Medical Center Foundation announced today that adidas is the presenting sponsor for its 31st Annual Bert M. Warden’s Golden South Classic event on June 2. The track and field event will be held in Warden Stadium at the Payne Stewart Athletic Complex at The First Academy in Orlando. Proceeds from the event will benefit the Bert Martin’s Champions for Children Emergency Department & Trauma Center at Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children.

Golden South began as a local event in 1976 and has grown into one of the country’s most prestigious high school track and field events with athletes coming from across the United States, Canada, the Bahamas and the Caribbean. Over the years, the event has produced more than 35 Olympic athletes including 12 gold medal winners.

“We are excited to have adidas as our presenting sponsor for this premier track and field event as many of our athletes share their ‘impossible is Nothing’ spirit by setting high goals and going after them,” said Andy Warden, chairman of the Golden South executive committee. “Each year our athletes are the elite of their sport and they come to compete at the highest level breaking Golden South Classic records almost every year. With adidas’ support this will continue to be a sought after event for high school track and field athletes.”

“adidas is proud to be the official footwear and apparel sponsor of the Golden South Classic,” said Danny Lopez, adidas America Sports Marketing. ”Track and Field is at the heart of our brand dating back over 80 years, and through world class events like this one, we continue to champion the sport at all levels today.”

adidas is a global designer, developer and marketer of athletic footwear, apparel and accessories with the mission to be the leading sports brand in the world. Brand adidas is part of the adidas Group, a corporation that includes brands such as Reebok and TaylorMade-adidas Golf.

Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children, supported by the Arnold Palmer Medical Center Foundation, is a 158-bed facility dedicated exclusively to the needs of children. Located in Orlando, Arnold Palmer Hospital includes comprehensive, specialized programs and services for children including acute care, adolescent medicine, a Congenital Heart Institute in partnership with Miami Children’s Hospital, pediatric intensive care, emergency medicine, nephrology, neurology and trauma services to name a few. To learn more, visit www.arnoldpalmerhospital.org.

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Local Woman Receives National Honor for Raising Breast Cancer Awareness

5/14/2007 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, Fla. (May 15, 2007) – When Elaine Lustig co-founded Women Playing for T.I.M.E. (technology, immediate diagnosis, mammography and education) in 1993, her goal was to raise breast cancer awareness in Central Florida, now her efforts are gaining national attention. Lustig was honored as a Yoplait Champion last month for co-founding Women Playing for T.I.M.E. (WPFT), an all-women’s group which raises funds for breast cancer programs at MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando.

She is one of only 25 people in the country to be named a 2007 Yoplait Champion annually, and was treated to a trip for two to New York City to receive her award. There, she attended a special award ceremony and accepted a $1,000 check for MD Anderson – Orlando. Lustig, along with the other winners, is also featured in the May subscriber’s edition of SELF magazine.

Lustig was motivated to form WPFT, after watching so many of her friends suffer from breast cancer, sometimes succumbing to the disease. She recruited some of Central Florida’s most influential women to help organize big-ticket golf and tennis tournaments with an all-female roster. Though some doubted women would pay hundreds to participate in charity golf tournaments, the annual events raise an average of $450,000 a year – making WPFT one of MD Anderson – Orlando’s largest contributors. To date, WPFT has donated more than $5.5 million to the cancer center and that figure is expected to increase as WPFT approaches its 15^th anniversary in October.

MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando, part of Orlando Regional Healthcare, is affiliated with The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando in Houston. U.S. News & World Report recently ranked MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando as the top cancer treatment center in the U.S. and has ranked it as one of the top two cancer centers for the past 13 years. Orlando Regional, a 1,780-bed community-owned, Florida not-for-profit organization established in 1918, annually serves more than 540,000 Central Florida residents and nearly 3,000 international patients. More information is available at www.mdandersonorlando.org.

Take Your Child to Work at Orlando Regional Healthcare

4/26/2007 12:00:00 AM

More than 100 students take a break from class to explore health care careers at ORMC.

Orlando, FL (April 26, 2007) --- Fourth through eighth graders will join Orlando Regional Healthcare team members for a day of career exploration during the Take Your Child to Work Day program on today, Thursday, April 26. The hands-on program is designed to teach students about the diverse careers in health care.

“Each year, we look forward to planning and hosting this program,” said Karen Durigan, RN, MBA, BSN, nursing operations manager, Nursing Ancillary Services, and event coordinator. “Our hope is to plant a seed of interest in health care in students who may not have been interested, and continue to nurture the interests other students already have.”

Orlando Regional has a full agenda for students, including department tours and learning stations where participants learn the correct way to take a temperature, check heartbeats, bandage injured body parts and dispense candy through a “medication ATM machine.” During “lunch breaks” students and their parents have the opportunity to have lunch and catch up on the day’s activities.

At the end of the day, students will receive a certificate of completion, and hopefully leave with a new found or greater interest in the health care profession.

Orlando Regional Healthcare, a 1,780-bed private, not-for-profit organization was established in 1918. The hospital system serves more than 640,000 Central Florida residents and nearly 3,000 international patients annually. Physicians are independent contractors and are not employees of Orlando Regional Healthcare or its subsidiaries. As a community-owned organization, Orlando Regional reinvests its profits into many one-of-a-kind, specialized services like Central Florida’s only Level One Trauma Center and statutory teaching hospital. Another unique service is Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children’s 23,500-square-foot, 33-bed Children’s Emergency Department & Trauma Center scheduled to open in Spring 2007. U.S.News & World Report ranked Orlando Regional Healthcare as one of the nation’s best hospitals, Fortune magazine recognized Orlando Regional as one of the Top 100 Companies to Work for in America and the Herman Group designated Orlando Regional Healthcare an Employer of Choice. More information is available at www.orlandoregional.org.

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ORMC adds weight loss surgery program to help patients lose pounds

4/10/2007 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, Fla. (April 10, 2007) --- Orlando Regional Medical Center began its Bariatric Surgery Weight Loss Program in April to provide a weight loss surgery option to patients who are unable to achieve a healthy weight by traditional means. The laparoscopic banding procedure, known as the LAP-BAND® System, is an adjustable gastric band that reduces the stomach capacity and restricts the amount of food that can be consumed at one time. The minimally invasive procedure does not require stomach cutting and stapling or gastrointestinal re-routing to bypass normal digestion.

The comprehensive program includes patient education and a rigorous pre-screening process to evaluate important factors such as mental health and commitment to lifestyle changes. The program also includes post support in nutrition, fitness and other areas. Currently, the program’s patients will be assigned to five designated rooms in Charles Lewis Pavilion.

Daryl Wier, M.D., a general surgeon for over 20 years, will perform the procedure. Dr. Wier received his medical degree from the Louisiana State University School of Medicine, where he also completed a general surgery residency. He completed a critical care medicine fellowship at Memorial Medical Center in Jacksonville and a general surgery internship at Charity Hospital of Louisiana in New Orleans. Dr. Wier has previously served as vice chairman of the Department of Surgery and chairman of Surgical Quality Assurance at St. Luke’s Hospital in Jacksonville. He has published articles in various journals including the Journal of American College of Surgeons and American Surgeon.

The laparoscopic banding procedure is designated for patients with a minimum body mass index (BMI) of 35. BMI is one of many criterion for weight loss surgery.

Throughout the past 20 years there has been a dramatic increase in obesity in the United States. A 2003-2004 study by the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey estimates 66 percent of adults are overweight or obese. Obesity, defined by a body mass index (BMI) of 30 or higher, is one of the country’s most serious epidemics and is linked to many health conditions like high blood pressure, high cholesterol, heart disease, stroke and type 2 diabetes. The economic cost of obesity in America was about $117 billion in 2000.

For additional information about ORMC’s Bariatric Surgery Weight Loss Program, contact Karen Durigan, RN, MBA, BSN, nursing operations manager, Nursing Ancillary Services and Bariatric Program Coordinator at (321) 841-1698.

Orlando Regional Healthcare, a 1,780-bed private, not-for-profit organization was established in 1918. The hospital system serves 1.6 million Central Florida residents and nearly 3,000 international patients annually. As a community-owned organization, Orlando Regional reinvests its profits into many one-of-a-kind, specialized services like Central Florida’s only Level One Trauma Center and statutory teaching hospital. Another unique service is Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children’s 23,500-square-foot, 33-bed Children’s Emergency De partment & Trauma Center scheduled to open in Summer 2007. U.S.News & World Report ranked Orlando Regional Healthcare as one of the nation’s best hospitals, Fortune magazine recognized Orlando Regional as one of the Top 100 Companies to Work for in America and the Herman Group designated Orlando Regional Healthcare an Employer of Choice. More information is available at www.orlandoregional.org.

Winnie Palmer Hospital for Women & Babies Wins Golden Brick Award

4/4/2007 12:00:00 AM

For more information:
Robin Kraich
Media Relations Consultant
Winnie Palmer Hospital for Women & Babies
O: (321) 843-4567
P: (407) 596-4007

Winnie Palmer Hospital for Women & Babies Wins Golden Brick Award

The award honors contributions to community life and the workplace in downtown Orlando

ORLANDO, FL (April 4, 2007) – Winnie Palmer Hospital for Women & Babies received the Award of Excellence, the highest honor given each year at the Golden Brick Awards, presented by the Downtown Orlando Partnership. The awards honor contributions to community life and the workplace in downtown Orlando.

“We were thrilled to receive this award,” said Kathy Swanson, president, Winnie Palmer Hospital. “Winnie Palmer Hospital has been a dream come true for those of us fortunate enough to be involved with such an incredible facility. We had a wonderful team, including our contractor Robins & Morton, who helped bring the dream to life. We hope we have created a legacy of caring for our community for generations to come.”

Winnie Palmer Hospital for Women & Babies, supported by the Arnold Palmer Medical Center Foundation, is a 285-bed facility dedicated exclusively to the needs of women and babies. The hospital includes comprehensive fetal diagnostics and labor and delivery services, a regional center for neonatal intensive care, maternal intensive care and women’s services. Annually, more than 12,000 babies are expected to be born at Winnie Palmer Hospital, making it the busiest labor and delivery unit in the state of Florida. To learn more, visit www.winniepalmerhospital.org.

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Panera’s Pink Ribbon Bagel Campaign Generates $25k for MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando

4/2/2007 12:00:00 AM

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Media Contact:
Christine S. Martinez
(321) 843-1343
christine.martinez@orhs.org

Panera’s Pink Ribbon Bagel Campaign Generates $25k for
MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando

ORLANDO, Fla. (April 2, 2007) – Panera Bread raised a lot of dough for MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando during its Pink Ribbon Bagel Campaign last October and presented the center with a $25,000 check during a charity golf tournament at Orange Tree Golf Club in Orlando on March 19, 2007.

Limited-edition Pink Ribbon Bagels were sold at Panera’s 18 local bakery-cafes during Breast Cancer Awareness month, with 25 cents from each bagel sale going to the cancer center. Panera proved the only holes in the successful campaign were in the middle of its popular bagels which featured cherry chips and real bits of Bing cherries and cranberries.

“Panera Bread is committed to serving the members of the local community, many of whom have had their lives touched by breast cancer,” said Annette Ford, owner of all Central Florida Panera Bread locations. “We are honored to support MD Anderson – Orlando in its search for a cure.”

Panera plans to partner with MD Anderson – Orlando again this October to raise additional funds and awareness for breast cancer.

Super Sized Inflatable Colon

3/1/2007 12:00:00 AM

WHAT:	It’s the ultimate tool for visual learners – an enormous inflatable colon. Cancer experts at MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando invite the public to walk through a 20-foot long, 8-foot high replica of the human colon and learn more about colon cancer – the nation’s second deadliest cancer. Visitors will get a close-up view of healthy colon tissue, various stages of colorectal cancer and signs of non-malignant colorectal diseases like Crohn’s and colitis. While the sight of an inflatable colon may offer a few chuckles, experts from MD Anderson – Orlando assure that cancer is no laughing matter. Visitors will receive information about cancer screening, prevention tips, risk factors, nutrition and more. The free exhibit, sponsored by Sanofi-Aventis, is on loan from the Cancer Research and Prevention Foundation. Super Colon is the foundation`s three-year-old traveling tunnel that promotes screening for a cancer that`s 90 percent curable when detected early.
WHEN:	Tuesday, March 20, & Wednesday, March 21 8 a.m. to 4 p.m
WHERE:	MD Anderson – Orlando 1400 S. Orange Ave. 4th Floor plaza
INTERVIEW PHOTO OPPS:	*Please contact Media Relations for an escort.

MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando Receives Research Grant from Florida Department of Health

2/26/2007 12:00:00 AM

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

ORLANDO, Fla. (February 26, 2007) – Following its first ever peer-reviewed research grant from the Florida Department of Health, MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando will intensify its radiation therapy research focusing on lung, prostate, breast and spinal tumors. The $437,000 grant was sponsored by the Bankhead-Coley Cancer Research Program and will be used to purchase a Calypso® 4D Localization System which maps out tumor locations in real-time, allowing for more accurate radiation delivery.

“It’s exciting to know that our work here in Central Florida is getting noticed at the state-level,” said Sanford Meeks, Ph.D., chief of radiotherapy physics at MD Anderson – Orlando. “Peer-reviewed grants allow us to explore the best way to treat cancers using the latest techniques and technologies. The more research we can do on a local level, the faster we can bring new therapies to the community.”

MD Anderson – Orlando is one of seven programs in Florida to receive the Bankhead-Coley Grant. Sanford Meeks, Ph.D., Patrick Kupelian, M.D. and Twyla Willoughby, Ph.D. from MD Anderson – Orlando, along with Jannick Rolland, Ph.D. and Anand Santhanam, Ph.D. from the University of Central Florida served as co-investigators on the grant.

MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando, part of Orlando Regional Healthcare, is affiliated with The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando in Houston. U.S. News & World Report ranked MD Anderson Cancer Center one of the top two cancer facilities in the nation for 2005 and has done so for the past 16 years. Orlando Regional, a 1,652-bed community-owned, Florida not-for-profit organization established in 1918, annually serves more than 640,000 Central Florida residents and 4,500 international patients. More information is available at www.mdandersonorlando.org

A Special Clinic for Special People

2/26/2007 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, FL (February 26, 2007) – The 13^th Annual Down Syndrome Clinic will be held from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Wednesday, February 28, at the Howard Phillips Center for Children & Families, 601 W. Michigan Street. Individuals with Down Syndrome will enjoy a free day of complete services from The Developmental Center for Infants & Children, part of the Howard Phillips Center for Children & Families and Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children. The event is also being sponsored by the Down Syndrome Association of Central Florida. To schedule an appointment, please call Jenny Weatherford at (407) 317-7430 x.2168.

Children with Down Syndrome from all over Florida, ranging in age from newborn to young adult, will receive free services and consultations including a free hearing screening. This free clinic will be staffed by a wide spectrum of medical specialists as well as therapists and professionals specializing in the care and therapy of individuals with Down syndrome. In all, more than 60 specialties representing 17 different areas, along with staff from the Developmental Center, the Down Syndrome Association and other community volunteers will be on hand to guide families through the many services and activities.

Based on the success of last year’s Clinic, which saw more than 80 clients, the event has grown in popularity and this year, will be the largest of its kind in the state with an estimated 100 individuals participating.

“It’s been incredibly rewarding to watch the children, along with their families grow and prosper. Parents can see that they’re not alone and there are resources out there for them,” said Dr. Lynda Pollack, medical director of the Developmental Center and founder of the Down Syndrome clinic. “Not only will there be care and therapies provided, there will be entertainment with a clown, face painting and lots of social interaction.”

One of the most important benefits of this annual event is providing parents and families the opportunity to meet others with similar challenges and to exchange information. Often families feel isolated with the constant care required for a special needs child and can learn from others who are succeeding in helping their child reach their full potential.

“Another heart-warming aspect of this true community event is that busy private practice physicians and specialists are taking a full day and volunteering their time to these families,” added Pollack. “These greatly needed services are a gift to very appreciative parents and their children.”

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Orlando Regional Healthcare and South Lake Hospital increase altitude in patient care

2/19/2007 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, Fla. (February 19, 2007) --- The sky is the limit to what Orlando Regional Healthcare will do to meet the needs of critically ill patients across Central Florida. The hospital recently added a second helicopter to expand The Air Care Team’s air ambulance program. The second helicopter will be based at South Lake Hospital, providing residents in Lake County faster access to specialized care. A ribbon-cutting ceremony will be held at 10 a.m., Wednesday, February 21, at South Lake Hospital.

“Having Air Care here on the South Lake Hospital campus will enhance medical services for the entire south Lake County community,” says Leslie Longacre, executive director/CEO of South Lake Hospital. “It`s another example of meeting the health care needs of those we serve."

The new addition serves many functions including taking trauma and emergency services to the scene, improving access to a range of medical services including cardiology, neurology and orthopedics.

“Beyond serving trauma patients, our air medical flight service responds to other medical emergencies such as a person having a stroke or heart attack, a newborn needing open-heart surgery, or an expectant mother with an obstetrical emergency,” said Beth Rudloff, clinical improvement and ORMC trauma administrator. “By expanding our services we are able to build on the day to day efforts of our mission to improve the health and quality of life of the individuals and communities we serve.”

The second helicopter is a Bell 206 L4 LongRanger, considered one of the safest most used aircraft in the air medical industry. The pilots and medical crew have trained for numerous hours in the second helicopter to provide the same high standard of care it has provided to the community for more than 20 years.

The Air Care Team has provided medical services in a single helicopter, 24 hours a day, seven days a week since 1984. Since then, the Air Care Team has flown more than 19,000 patients with more than 1.2 million accident-free rescue mission miles. The Air Care Team averages 100 flights per month and services an area encompassing a 100-mile radius of Orlando. As the only hospital-based scene responder in Central Florida, the Air Care Team responds directly to scenes of accidents upon request of law enforcement and EMS personnel, as well as transports critically ill patients between hospitals.

Omniflight Helicopters Inc., which has been a leader in providing air medical transportation services to the health care industry for 45 years, provides the aviation services to Orlando Regional’s Air Care Team. The two have worked together since the program began.

Orlando Regional Healthcare, a 1,780-bed private, not-for-profit organization was established in 1918. The hospital system serves more than 640,000 Central Florida residents and 4,500 international patients annually. Physicians are independent contractors and are not employees of Orlando Regional Healthcare or its subsidiaries. As a community-owned organization, Orlando Regional reinvests its profits into many one-of-a-kind, specialized services like Central Florida’s only Level One Trauma Center and statutory teaching hospital. Another unique service is Arnold Palmer Hospital’s 23,500-square-foot, 33-bed Children’s Emergency Department & Trauma Center scheduled to open late 2006. U.S.News & World Report ranked Orlando Regional Healthcare as one of the nation’s best hospitals, Fortune magazine recognized Orlando Regional as one of the Top 100 Companies to Work for in America and the Herman Group designated Orlando Regional Healthcare an Employer of Choice. More information is available at www.orlandoregional.org.

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MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando Welcomes New Gynecologic Surgeon

2/16/2007 12:00:00 AM

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

ORLANDO, Fla. (February 16, 2007) – In its continuing effort to hire doctors with specialized skills to fight specific cancers, MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando recently welcomed laparoscopic gynecologic surgeon Jessica M. Vaught, MD, to the staff. Dr. Vaught will work with MD Anderson – Orlando’s multi-disciplinary team of medical and radiation oncologists to treat women with both complex gynecologic conditions as well as gynecologic cancers.

Dr. Vaught joins the cancer center from the Women’s Surgery Center in Silver Spring, Md. She trained in the obstetrics and gynecology residency program at The George Washington University Medical Center and became an assistant clinical professor of obstetrics and gynecology at the university.

She graduated cum laude from Bowling Green State University in Ohio with a bachelor degree in biochemistry and then received her medical degree from the University of Cincinnati College of Medicine.

MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando, part of Orlando Regional Healthcare, is affiliated with The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando in Houston. U.S. News & World Report ranked MD Anderson Cancer Center one of the top two cancer facilities in the nation for 2005 and has done so for the past 16 years. Orlando Regional, a 1,652-bed community-owned, Florida not-for-profit organization established in 1918, annually serves more than 640,000 Central Florida residents and 4,500 international patients. More information is available at

www.mdandersonorlando.org.

Million Dollar Contribution Funds MD Anderson - Orlando’s Rod Taylor Thoracic Care Center

1/17/2007 12:00:00 AM

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

ORLANDO, Fla. (January 17, 2007) – Thanks to a million dollar contribution in memory of the late Rod Taylor, a long-time Orlando attorney, MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando will rename its dedicated thoracic center the Rod Taylor Thoracic Care Center. Taylor lost his own battle to lung cancer in August of 2006 after practicing law in Central Florida for more than 30 years. This significant financial gift will now support MD Anderson- Orlando’s efforts to provide specialized care for others battling thoracic cancers.

“Mr. Taylor’s legacy will continue at MD Anderson – Orlando through his family’s generous donation,” said Michael Mangan, vice president for development for MD Anderson – Orlando. “These funds will enable our team of multidisciplinary oncologists to continue to provide the utmost care and compassion to people living with lung cancer,”

The Rod Taylor Thoracic Care Center is a one-stop-shop for lung cancer patients to speak with the necessary board-certified surgeons, pulmonologists, nurses, radiologists, pathologists, counselors and oncologists. The center also offers patients more state-of-the-art lung cancer diagnosis and treatment technologies than any other facility in Central Florida including external beam radiation therapy, TomoTherapy Hi·Art System^®, NovalisÒ Shaped Beam Surgery and superDimensionÒ/Bronchus minimally-invasive diagnosis.

In addition to the Taylor family’s million dollar gift, more than $30,000 was raised from the Rod Taylor Memorial Golf Tournament held recently at Windermere Country Club and from individual gifts given in Taylor’s memory from supporters across the country.

Legend Prepares for New Era at Bay Hill

1/17/2007 12:00:00 AM

January 17, 2007

LEGEND PREPARES FOR NEW ERA AT BAY HILL

Arnold Palmer joins special club with name adorning annual PGA TOUR event presented by MasterCard

In 2007 Arnold Palmer becomes the second player to have the distinction of a PGA TOUR event named in his honor, which is not only appropriate but also comes at a fortuitous time given that the first, Byron Nelson, whose name has been on the Dallas stop for 40 years, passed away late last year.

When the PGA TOUR`s finest return to the Bay Hill Club in Orlando, they will be vying for the first title in what is now know as the Arnold Palmer Invitational presented by MasterCard.

Palmer agreed to become host of the event in 1979 and has nurtured it into a top-flight tournament. This year`s event at Bay Hill offers a purse of $5.5 million and is scheduled for March 12-18, remaining anchored in its traditional dates as the PGA TOUR embarks this season on a new competitive format, the FedExCup, a points-based competition that will determine a season champion.

Though the announcement of the tournament name change occurred last March, Palmer, a seven-time major championship winner, in some ways still struggles to come to terms with such an emotional and humbling honor. "It`s still hard to fathom in some ways, but it`s something that was important to my family, and they made it happen, and I hope that it`s a good thing for the tournament," Palmer, age 77, says. "I feel like the tournament isn`t going to change much, really, except that we think it`s going to be better than last year, which is always our goal."

PGA TOUR commissioner Tim Finchem believes the name change will have a profound effect on the tournament.

"We are particularly excited about this development for the future of the tournament at Bay Hill," Finchem says. "Arnold, of course, is inextricably related to this championship. He created it. I think what`s happened here with the development of the tournament under Arnold`s tutelage is very special. It is part of the texture and the fabric of the PGA TOUR. Renaming the tournament the Arnold Palmer Invitational does a couple of things. It really identifies the tournament correctly, and it positions the tournament for the future. In both cases, these were steps that really strengthened these weeks on the PGA TOUR. This week now will be a stronger week and that`s the objective."

Winner of 62 PGA TOUR titles and countless more hearts as one of the most popular and beloved figures in American sports, Palmer says he respectfully declined numerous requests over the years to have his name on various tournaments. "I resisted here as long as I was playing or participating on the TOUR full time," he adds. "I just didn`t think it would be appropriate to have my name on a golf tournament. As a matter of fact, I kind of let it slide by without giving it a great deal of thought until my daughter, Amy, suggested that we do this. And since she has something to do with me, I listened. If it can be what I had hoped this tournament would be over the years, I`ll be very happy for it."

Though Palmer would dearly love to tee it up himself in the first year of the renamed championship, he is content with acting as host and overseeing preparation of the golf course he has put his personal stamp on over the years. Palmer retired from competitive golf last year, though he remains committed to participating in select special events such as the Champions Skins Game in which he appeared last week in Wailea, Hawaii. He stopped playing in his own event in 2004.

"I dream of still being involved competitively, but that`s just not going to happen," he says. "I want to enjoy my golf, and I can do that in other ways, and by the same token I look forward to enjoying the golf being played during the tournament. I think the state of the tournament is as good as ever and, hopefully, we will have another fine event this year that`s well attended by the players and fans alike."

One of the premier stops on the PGA TOUR, the Arnold Palmer Invitational presented by MasterCard traditionally draws one of the strongest fields among golf tournaments from around the world. Australia`s Rod Pampling is the defending champion, joining an esteemed list of past winners including Tiger Woods, who won a record four straight, Phil Mickelson, Ernie Els, Ben Crenshaw, Tom Kite, Fred Couples and the late Payne Stewart.

For tickets to the 2007 Arnold Palmer Invitational presented by MasterCard or for more information, log on to the tournament web site, www.arnoldpalmerinvitational.com or call the Bay Hill Club ticket office at 407-876-7774 or toll free at 1-866-764-4843. Tournament proceeds benefit the Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children and the Winnie Palmer Hospital for Women & Babies.

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Media Contact:

Bev Norwood
bnorwood@arnoldpalmerinvitational.com
216-436-3409

Orlando Regional Healthcare

1/1/2007 12:00:00 AM

Orlando Regional Healthcare, a 1,780-bed private, not-for-profit organization was established in 1918. The hospital system serves more than 640,000 Central Florida residents and nearly 3,000 international patients annually. Physicians are independent contractors and are not employees of Orlando Regional Healthcare or its subsidiaries.

As a community-owned organization, Orlando Regional reinvests its profits into many one-of-a-kind, specialized services like Central Florida’s only Level One Trauma Center and statutory teaching hospital. Another unique service is Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children’s 23,500-square-foot, 33-bed Children’s Emergency Department & Trauma Center scheduled to open in Spring 2007. U.S.News & World Report ranked Orlando Regional Healthcare as one of the nation’s best hospitals, Fortune magazine recognized Orlando Regional as one of the Top 100 Companies to Work for in America and the Herman Group designated Orlando Regional Healthcare an Employer of Choice. More information is available at www.orlandoregional.org.

Friends turn special occasion celebrations into a time to help others

12/22/2006 12:00:00 AM

Over years a group of thirty to fifty-something-year-old professionals in Central Florida would gather for birthdays, promotions, special occasions and holiday celebrations with the traditional trimmings of good food, fun and presents.

About four years ago, the friends changed their festive themes and began to party with a greater purpose. They started by adopting families at Christmas time through local radio programs and community organizations.

This year, the ladies who call themselves “Women Making a Difference” have adopted the Brain Injury Rehabilitation Center (BIRC) as an ongoing support project. The group registered “Baby BIRC” at Target, selecting items from personal hygiene care to clothing and shoes. The group also encouraged their circle of family and friends to join the party of giving by opting out of a traditional gift exchange and suggested they buy a gift for “Baby BIRC.”

Outside of the caring, compassionate staff of team members working with patients in speech, recreational and physical therapies, patients may need additional clothing, shoes and hygiene items because of changes they are experiencing as a result of their injuries or medical conditions that require rehabilitation.

“For patients and families providing these items at no cost removes the stress, pressure or other obstacles to purchasing additional shoes, clothes, shampoo, deodorant or other personal hygiene items so easily taken for granted,” said Phyllis Murphy, physical therapist, Orlando Regional Rehabilitation Institute and Women Making a Difference member. “Without the worries, patients are able to fully focus on and participate in their therapy — physically and emotionally. Something as simple as a brand new pair of sweat pants for therapy is a small way to make a big difference restoring the dignity patients may have lost learning to adjust to their injury or condition and working towards returning to a sense of normalcy.”

One teen`s savings for a laptop adds up to an act of generosity to the American Heart Association

12/20/2006 12:00:00 AM

While at a church youth retreat, Sydney heard the story about a friend’s father who had a stroke. The friend was preparing to participate in the American Heart Association’s Greater Orlando Heart Walk in September and seeking supporters. Sydney wanted to help. Not only did Sydney walk on her friend’s team, but she also donated nearly $500 she had earned babysitting and was saving for a laptop. Sydney realized reaching out to others was more important than a laptop.

“God touched my heart to not focus so much on material things,” said Sydney. “He wanted me to focus on helping others.”After hearing the story of Sydney’s generosity, Scott Skidelsky, 2006 Heart Walk Chair and Vice President and General Manager for Turner Construction Company, wanted Sydney to have a laptop after all.

Pediatric Pulmonologists Join Staff, Open Practice at Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children

12/19/2006 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, FL (December 19, 2006) - Daniel Garcia, M.D. and Carlos E. Sabogal, M.D. have joined the Graduate Medical Education faculty staff at Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children and opened a Pediatric Pulmonary Faculty Practice at 32 W. Gore Street, Orlando.

The practice will offer treatment for the following: asthma, chronic cough, bronchopulmonary dysplasia, congenital malformations of the lung, recurrent pneumonias, apnea of prematurity, ventilator and oxygen dependent patients, tracheostomy patients, pulmonary related sleep disorders, restrictive lung disease and interstitatial lung diseases.

"We are pleased that Dr. Garcia and Dr. Sabogal have joined our Medical Education Faculty Practices. They bring with them a welcomed state-of- the-art, comprehensive pediatric pulmonary capability,” said Dr. Jay Falk, chief academic medical officer of Graduate Medical Education at Orlando Regional Healthcare. “They will be key members of our faculty participating in student and resident education and training.”

Dr. Garcia received his medical degree and completed his pediatric residency program at the University of Miami School of Medicine/Jackson Memorial Hospital. He went on to complete his pediatric pulmonary fellowship at Baylor College of Medicine/Texas Children’s Hospital. Garcia is board certified in pediatrics and pediatric pulmonology. He is a member of the American Academy of Pediatrics, American Thoracic Society, American College of Chest Physicians, and American Medical Association.

Dr. Sabogal received his medical degree from the Universidad Nacional Federico Villarreal Medical School in Lima, Peru. He completed his pediatric residency program and pediatric pulmonary fellowship at the University of Miami School of Medicine/Jackson Memorial Hospital. Sabogal is board certified in pediatrics and pediatric pulmonology. He is a member of the American Academy of Pediatrics, American Thoracic Society, American College of Chest Physicians and the Peruvian College of Physicians.

Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children, supported by the Arnold Palmer Medical Center Foundation, is a 158-bed facility dedicated exclusively to the needs of children. Located in Orlando, Arnold Palmer Hospital includes comprehensive, specialized programs and services for children including acute care, adolescent medicine, a Congenital Heart Institute in partnership with Miami Children’s Hospital, pediatric intensive care, emergency medicine, nephrology, neurology and trauma services to name a few. To learn more, visit www.arnoldpalmerhospital.org.

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2006 Butkus Award® Finalists Call Time Out to Visit Patients at Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children

12/8/2006 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, FL (December 8, 2006) – College football’s 2006 Butkus Award® Finalists left the field and took to new plays as they visited patients at Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children. James Laurinaitis, Ohio State University; Paul Posluszny, Penn State University and Patrick Willis, University of Mississippi, walked a different line of scrimmage, room by room, to spread smiles, laughs and fun.

“It is great meeting the kids and seeing how excited some of them get when we walk into the room,” said Willis, the 2006 Butkus Award® winner. “It makes us feel good that we helped brighten their day.”

The Butkus Award®, named for NFL Hall of Famer Dick Butkus, was created in 1985 by the Downtown Athletic Club of Orlando, Inc. and honors the nation’s best linebacker in college football.

“We appreciate their visit every year as the kids really enjoy meeting them and having their pictures taken,” said Sheri Mosely, child life manager, Arnold Palmer Hospital. “The parents also enjoy the visit as some of them are big football fans.”

Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children, supported by the Arnold Palmer Medical Center Foundation, is a 158-bed facility dedicated exclusively to the needs of children. Located in Orlando, Arnold Palmer Hospital includes comprehensive, specialized programs and services for children including acute care, adolescent medicine, a Congenital Heart Institute in partnership with Miami Children’s Hospital, pediatric intensive care, emergency medicine, nephrology, neurology and trauma services to name a few. To learn more, visit www.arnoldpalmerhospital.org.

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MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando Names New Radiation Therapy Business Manager

12/6/2006 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, Fla. (December 6, 2006) – MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando recently appointed Catherine Matthias as its new radiation therapy business manager. Matthias will provide business and strategy oversight for the cancer center’s radiation therapy department. She will be responsible for enhancing MD Anderson – Orlando’s radiation oncology business activities and coordinating all capital purchases.

Matthias most recently served as a strategic planning coordinator for Orlando Regional Medical Center and Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children. Prior to joining Orlando Regional Healthcare, Matthias held strategic planning positions at both Duke University in North Carolina and the Health Care Advisory Board in Washington, D.C. She received her bachelor’s degree from Duke University and her master’s in Healthcare Administration from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill School of Public Health. MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando, part of Orlando Regional Healthcare, is affiliated with The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando in Houston. U.S. News & World Report ranked MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando one of the top two cancer facilities in the nation for 2005 and has done so for the past 16 years. Orlando Regional, a 1,652-bed community-owned, Florida not-for-profit organization established in 1918, annually serves more than 640,000 Central Florida residents and 4,500 international patients. More information is available at www.mdandersonorlando.org

Orlando Regional Healthcare First in Florida to Acquire Two New Biograph 64 PET/CT Scanners

11/29/2006 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, Fla. (November 29, 2006)– Orlando Regional Healthcare, with services provided by MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando, is the first facility in Florida to acquire two new Siemens Truepoint Biograph 64 PET/CT Systems to better detect and treat cancer. The new system provides greater resolution and less inconvenience for the patient – a process that used to take hours, will now take roughly 30 minutes to complete.

PET scans are effective in illuminating where cancer cells are located and if they are growing or moving. The PET image on this system is the highest resolution available to date. However, CT scans better represent organs and tumors in the body. The CT image is particularly clear in this new system which uses 64-slice technology, the fastest and highest image resolution on the market. This technology will overlay both scans, which will allow MD Anderson – Orlando oncologists to see where cancer cells are located, and to determine if the cancer is growing and possibly spreading. This new technology will also give physicians landmarks in the body to map out a focused course of radiation treatment for patients. The more accurately doctors are able to pinpoint the cancer, the closer they can target radiation to the tumor without harming surrounding healthy tissue.

“We will now be able to diagnose and treat the cancer with greater accuracy while minimizing the discomfort to the patient,” said Clarence H. Brown III, M.D., president and CEO of MD Anderson - Orlando. “The new system will provide so much more than just an image of the body contents. It will allow us to assess the viability of a patient’s cancer and plan our treatment strategy based upon more information than we have had before, allowing for a greater chance of survival for our patients.”

Orlando Regional Healthcare has the fourth and fifth Biograph 64 PET/CT Systems off Siemens’ production line, making the facility one of the first in the nation to adopt this level of technology. MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando, part of Orlando Regional Healthcare, is affiliated with The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando in Houston. U.S. News & World Report ranked MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando one of the top two cancer facilities in the nation for 2005 and has done so for the past 16 years. Orlando Regional, a 1,652-bed community-owned, Florida not-for-profit organization established in 1918, annually serves more than 640,000 Central Florida residents and 4,500 international patients. More information is available at www.mdandersonorlando.org.

Orlando Regional Healthcare First in Florida to Acquire Two New Biograph 64 PET/CT Scanners

11/29/2006 12:00:00 AM

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Orlando, Fla. (November 29, 2006) – Orlando Regional Healthcare, with professional services provided by M. D. Anderson Cancer Center Orlando, is the first facility in Florida to acquire two new Siemens Truepoint Biograph 64 PET/CT Systems to better detect and treat cancer. The new system provides greater resolution and less inconvenience for the patient – a process that used to take hours, will now take roughly 30 minutes to complete.

PET scans are effective in illuminating where cancer cells are located and if they are growing or moving. The PET image on this system is the highest resolution available to date. However, CT scans better represent organs and tumors in the body. The CT image is particularly clear in this new system which uses 64-slice technology, the fastest and highest image resolution on the market. This technology will overlay both scans, which will allow MD Anderson – Orlando oncologists to see where cancer cells are located, and to determine if the cancer is growing and possibly spreading. This new technology will also give physicians landmarks in the body to map out a focused course of radiation treatment for patients. The more accurately doctors are able to pinpoint the cancer, the closer they can target radiation to the tumor without harming surrounding healthy tissue.

“We will now be able to diagnose and treat the cancer with greater accuracy while minimizing the discomfort to the patient,” said Clarence H. Brown III, M.D., president and CEO of M. D. Anderson - Orlando. “The new system will provide so much more than just an image of the body contents. It will allow us to assess the viability of a patient’s cancer and plan our treatment strategy based upon more information than we have had before, allowing for a greater chance of survival for our patients.”

Orlando Regional Healthcare has the fourth and fifth Biograph 64 PET/CT Systems off Siemens’ production line, making the facility one of the first in the nation to adopt this level of technology.

M. D. Anderson Cancer Center Orlando, part of Orlando Regional Healthcare, is affiliated with The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando in Houston. U.S. News & World Report ranked M. D. Anderson Cancer Center one of the top two cancer facilities in the nation for 2005 and has done so for the past 16 years. Orlando Regional, a 1,652-bed community-owned, Florida not-for-profit organization established in 1918, annually serves more than 640,000 Central Florida residents and 4,500 international patients. More information is available at www.mdandersonorlando.org.

Orlando Regional Sand Lake Hospital changes name as it changes shape

11/14/2006 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, Fla. (November 14, 2006) --- For nearly 100 years, Orlando Regional Healthcare and Dr. Phillips Charities have had a strong presence in Central Florida and a shared mission to serve. Throughout the past 40 years, the two organizations have been neighbors and partners in countless programs and initiatives to enrich the lives of residents in Southwest Orlando. The Orlando Regional Healthcare Foundation has chosen to honor Dr. Phillips Charities’historic leadership and support for the organization’s health care mission by renaming Orlando Regional Sand Lake Hospital as The Dr. P. Phillips Hospital.

The Foundation announced the name change during a reception honoring Dr. Phillips Charities held Tuesday evening. Sponsored by HKS Architects Inc., designers for the hospital’s expansion plans, the event was held at Renaissance Orlando Resort at SeaWorld. The name change will be effective January 27, 2007, commemorating the birthday of Dr. Philip Phillips.

“The new name reflects the longtime commitment of Dr. Phillips Charities’ community leadership and community investment at Orlando Regional as a whole and at Sand Lake Hospital,” said Shannon Elswick, president, Sand Lake Hospital. “What will not change is our indelible commitment to continue as a thriving medical campus that offers excellent health care to our community and tourists in the area. We remain a part of the Orlando Regional Healthcare family, guided by our dedicated team of administrators and compassionate team members.”

“The long-standing relationship between Dr. Phillips Inc., The Dr. P. Phillips Foundation and Orlando Regional has led to the development and expansion of a medical facility that not only serves the residents of the Dr. Phillips community, but also surrounding areas and visitors to Central Florida,” said Ed F. Furey, III, president of Dr. Phillips Inc. and executive vice president and treasurer of The Dr. P. Phillips Foundation. “We are proud to continue the legacy of the Phillips family and look forward to a bright future for the Dr. Phillips community and Central Florida.”

Dr. Phillips Charities, comprised of The Dr. P. Phillips Foundation and Dr. Phillips Inc., demonstrated its first show of support to Orlando Regional decades ago. The Phillips family was well-known for philanthropy and support for programs that addressed community needs. Orange Memorial Hospital, known today as Orlando Regional Medical Center, became a beneficiary of the family’s generosity.

“In the late 1940s, Dr. Phillips, a true visionary, hired a land planner to fulfill a dream of establishing a self-supporting community where people would live, work and play,” said Jim Hinson, chairman of the board of both The Dr. P. Phillips Foundation and Dr. Phillips Inc. “Several years ago, the land that represented the first successful citrus grove that Dr. Phillips owned was provided to Orlando Regional for the establishment of a community hospital. Now through the consideration of the Orlando Regional Foundation, we have the opportunity to place another jewel in the crown of the Dr. Phillips community with the changing of the name of the hospital to Dr. P. Phillips Hospital.”

Over the years, Sand Lake Hospital and Dr. Phillips Charities have partnered in many ways to serve Central Florida residents and visitors.

“Dr. Phillips Charities has provided major support for Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children, Howard Phillips Center for Children & Families and MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando,” said Karen Jensen, vice president, Development, Foundation. “Now, Dr. Phillips Charities has stepped forward again with a $5 million gift in support of comprehensive capital and program needs in our system. The naming is a culmination of the history of Dr. Phillips Charities’ support throughout the organization and is the perfect opportunity for Dr. Phillips Charities to be recognized at its original ‘home’ within Orlando Regional. This is a proud association of two century-old organizations woven together with shared timeless fundamental human values – people, community and service.”

The new name for Sand Lake Hospital is part of the beginning of a new chapter in growth. To keep pace with the rapidly growing need and demand for health care services in Southwest Orlando neighborhoods, the hospital is planning a significant expansion project. Portions of the project are expected to break ground in summer 2007. The five-story expansion plan includes a total of 290 beds, nearly doubling the current 150-bed capacity, as well as additional critical care beds and operating rooms.

Orlando Regional Healthcare, a 1,780-bed private, not-for-profit organization was established in 1918. The hospital system serves more than 640,000 Central Florida residents and 4,500 international patients annually. Physicians are independent contractors and are not employees of Orlando Regional Healthcare or its subsidiaries. As a community-owned organization, Orlando Regional reinvests its profits into many one-of-a-kind, specialized services like Central Florida’s only Level One Trauma Center and statutory teaching hospital. Another unique service is Arnold Palmer Hospital’s 23,500-square-foot, 33-bed Children’s Emergency Department & Trauma Center scheduled to open late 2006. U.S.News & World Report ranked Orlando Regional Healthcare as one of the nation’s best hospitals, Fortune magazine recognized Orlando Regional as one of the Top 100 Companies to Work for in America and the Herman Group designated Orlando Regional Healthcare an Employer of Choice. More information is available at www.orlandoregional.org.

With nearly $6 million in grants and pledges given this year to Central Florida nonprofits, The Dr. P. Phillips Foundation and Dr. Phillips, Inc. continue to respond to the needs of the Central Florida community by directly touching the lives of tens of thousands of children and families each year.

American Clinitron-250 Proton Beam Radiation Therapy System

11/1/2006 12:00:00 AM

San Francisco, CA, November xx, 2006 -- AMERICAN SHARED HOSPITAL SERVICES (AMEX,PCX:AMS), a leading provider of turnkey technology solutions for advanced radiosurgical and radiation therapy services, announced today that it has entered into an agreement to provide a Clinatron-250™ proton beam radiation therapy (PBRT) system to Orlando Regional Healthcare, one of Florida`s most comprehensive private, not-for-profit healthcare networks. Subject to the receipt of FDA approval for the Clinitron-250 and the issuance of a Certificate of Need by the State of Florida, AMS anticipates commencing its lease agreement with Orlando Regional Healthcare for the PBRT system in 2009. Professional services will be exclusively provided by MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando.

Currently under development by Still River Systems, Littleton, Massachusetts, the Clinitron-250 is a single-treatment-room PBRT system incorporating proprietary technology that Still River believes may dramatically reduce the cost of implementing proton beam radiation therapy.

"This agreement with Orlando Regional, AMS` first transaction with this prominent institution, illustrates how the new generation of affordable PBRT systems now on the horizon will make the significant clinical advantages of proton beam radiation therapy available to more cancer patients than ever before. We are pleased that our creative financing solutions will make it possible for the doctors at MD Anderson – Orlando to be the principal providers of proton beam radiation therapy," said Ernest A. Bates, Chairman and CEO of AMS.

Clarence H. Brown III, MD, president and CEO of MD Anderson - Orlando , said, "having proton beam radiation therapy offers an option to certain patients who otherwise would be required to leave the area to receive what may be their best treatment, and we are delighted to be able to partner with American Shared Hospital Services in this endeavor.”

About MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando

MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando, part of Orlando Regional Healthcare, is affiliated with The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando in Houston. U.S. News & World Report ranked MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando one of the top two cancer facilities in the nation for 2005 and has done so for the past 16 years. Orlando Regional Healthcare, a 1,652-bed community-owned, Florida not-for-profit organization established in 1918, annually serves more than 640,000 Central Florida residents and 4,500 international patients. More information is available at www.mdandersonorlando.org.

About AMSAmerican Shared Hospital Services provides turnkey technology solutions for advanced radiosurgical and radiation therapy services. AMS is the world leader in providing Gamma Knife radiosurgery services, a non-invasive treatment for malignant and benign brain tumors, vascular malformations and trigeminal neuralgia (facial pain). The Company also offers the latest IGRT and IMRT systems, as well as its proprietary Operating Room for the 21st Century concept. Through its equity investment in Still River Systems, AMS also plans to complement these services with the Clinatron-250™ proton beam radiation therapy (PBRT) system, which has not yet been approved by the FDA.

Safe Harbor Statement

This press release may be deemed to contain certain forward-looking statements with respect to the financial condition, results of operations and future plans of American , the Form 10-Q for the three months ended March 31, 2006, June 30, 2006, and September 30, 2006, and the definitive Proxy Statement for the Annual Meeting of Shareholders on June 28, 2006.

Contacts:

           American Shared Hospital Services
            Ernest A. Bates, M.D., (415) 788-5300
               Chairman and Chief Executive Officer
               e.bates@ashs.com

            Berkman Associates
               Neil Berkman, (310) 826-5051
               President
              info@berkmanassociates.com

American Shared Hospital Services Provides a Clinitron-250 Proton Beam Radiation Therapy System

11/1/2006 12:00:00 AM

San Francisco, CA, November xx, 2006 -- AMERICAN SHARED HOSPITAL SERVICES (AMEX,PCX:AMS), a leading provider of turnkey technology solutions for advanced radiosurgical and radiation therapy services, announced today that it has entered into an agreement to provide a Clinatron-250™ proton beam radiation therapy (PBRT) system to Orlando Regional Healthcare, one of Florida`s most comprehensive private, not-for-profit healthcare networks. Subject to the receipt of FDA approval for the Clinitron-250 and the issuance of a Certificate of Need by the State of Florida, AMS anticipates commencing its lease agreement with Orlando Regional Healthcare for the PBRT system in 2009. Professional services will be exclusively provided by MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando.

"This agreement with Orlando Regional, AMS` first transaction with this prominent institution, illustrates how the new generation of affordable PBRT systems now on the horizon will make the significant clinical advantages of proton beam radiation therapy available to more cancer patients than ever before. We are pleased that our creative financing solutions will make it possible for the doctors at
MD Anderson – Orlando to be the principal providers of proton beam radiation therapy," said Ernest A. Bates, Chairman and CEO of AMS.

About MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando

MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando, part of Orlando Regional Healthcare, is affiliated with The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando in Houston. U.S. News & World Report ranked MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando one of the top two cancer facilities in the nation for 2005 and has done so for the past 16 years. Orlando Regional Healthcare, a 1,652-bed community-owned, Florida not-for-profit organization established in 1918, annually serves more than 640,000 Central Florida residents and 4,500 international patients. More information is available at www.mdandersonorlando.org.

About AMS

American Shared Hospital Services provides turnkey technology solutions for advanced radiosurgical and radiation therapy services. AMS is the world leader in providing Gamma Knife radiosurgery services, a non-invasive treatment for malignant and benign brain tumors, vascular malformations and trigeminal neuralgia (facial pain). The Company also offers the latest IGRT and IMRT systems, as well as its proprietary Operating Room for the 21st Century concept. Through its equity investment in Still River Systems, AMS also plans to complement these services with the Clinatron-250™ proton beam radiation therapy (PBRT) system, which has not yet been approved by the FDA.

Safe Harbor Statement
This press release may be deemed to contain certain forward-looking statements with respect to the financial condition, results of operations and future plans of American Shared Hospital Services, which involve risks and uncertainties including, but not limited to, the risks of the Gamma Knife business, the risks of developing its IMRT and The Operating Room for the 21st Century® programs, and the risks of investing in a development-stage company, Still River Systems, Inc., without a proven product. Further information on potential factors that could affect the financial condition, results of operations and future plans of American Shared Hospital Services is included in the filings of the Company with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including the Company`s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2005, the Form 10-Q for the three months ended March 31, 2006, June 30, 2006, and September 30, 2006, and the definitive Proxy Statement for the Annual Meeting of Shareholders on June 28, 2006.

Contacts:

    American Shared Hospital Services
    Ernest A. Bates, M.D., (415) 788-5300
    Chairman and Chief Executive Officer
    e.bates@ashs.com

New name for family rooms at Orlando Regional’s Level One Trauma Center honors SunTrust

9/26/2006 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, Fla. (September 26, 2006) --- In recognition of SunTrust Bank’s continued leadership and support of life-saving trauma care for the community, Orlando Regional Healthcare recently unveiled the newly named SunTrust Physician & Family Conference Center. Located inside the Level One Trauma Center at Orlando Regional Medical Center, this space provides families of trauma patients a haven during extremely difficult times.

“Traumatic situations are emotional times that require privacy and dignity for family members dealing with these sudden situations,” said John Bozard, president, Orlando Regional Healthcare Foundation. “The conference rooms offer a quiet, private location for family members to gather and speak with physicians and medical staff. We are pleased to name such a special place after an organization dedicated to trauma care and community involvement.”

Earlier this year, SunTrust pledged $400,000 in support of the trauma center. SunTrust’s generosity helps the trauma center keep pace with the growing needs of the community. Ray Sandhagen, chairman, president, and CEO, SunTrust Banks, Central Florida, is leading the philanthropic initiative to support Central Florida’s only Level One Trauma Center.

“Because trauma can happen to anyone at any time, life-saving care is essential,” said Sandhagen. “Those who live, work or travel in Central Florida have a vested interest in the quality and availability of trauma care in our region. That’s why SunTrust supports this critical, community asset.”

Traumatic injury is the leading cause of death for people between the ages of 1 and 44. It accounts for more years of life lost than heart attack, cancer, and stroke combined. For more than two decades, the most critically injured patients from the Central Florida region have relied on the Level One Trauma Center to provide life-saving care at a moment’s notice. Level One Trauma services often mean the difference between life and death, and can significantly improve the quality of life following a traumatic injury.

Orlando Regional Healthcare, a 1,652-bed private, not-for-profit organization was established in 1918. The hospital system serves more than 640,000 Central Florida residents and 4,500 international patients annually. U.S. News & World Report ranked Orlando Regional Healthcare as one of the nation’s best hospitals. Fortune magazine recognized Orlando Regional as one of the Top 100 Companies to Work for in America and the Herman Group designated Orlando Regional Healthcare an Employer of Choice. More information is available at www.orlandoregional.org.

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MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando Names New Coordinator of its Dedicated Thoracic Care Center

9/22/2006 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, Fla. (Sept. 22, 2006) – MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando continues its commitment to streamline care for lung cancer patients as Lori Tabbutt, RN, assumes the position as specialty care center coordinator. Tabbutt’s new role will include the Thoracic Care Center where she will help all new thoracic patients navigate MD Anderson – Orlando’s dedicated program, working with surgical, medical and radiation oncologists to complete diagnostic tests within days and schedule immediate treatment.

Tabbutt most recently acted as the nursing operations manager for surgical oncology at MD Anderson – Orlando before assuming her new role. She began her nursing career at Orlando Regional Medical Center (ORMC) after graduating from Seminole Community College in 1999. At ORMC, she served as a charge nurse, preceptor and pain resource nurse on the Surgical/Trauma Unit until 2003 when she joined MD Anderson – Orlando. She has been an active member of ORMC’s team member council and the customer service summit committee since 2001. For her significant contributions, in 2002 she was recognized as Orlando Regional Healthcare’s Champion of the Quarter, an award given to outstanding employees.

MD Anderson – Orlando’s Thoracic Care Center is a one-stop-shop for lung cancer patients to speak with the necessary board-certified thoracic surgeons, pulmonologists, nurses, radiologists, pathologists, counselors and oncologists. The center officially opened in January and offers patients a multi-disciplinary treatment approach with more state-of-the-art lung cancer diagnosis and treatment technologies than any other facility in Central Florida including external beam radiation therapy, TomoTherapy Hi·Art System®, NovalisÒ Shaped Beam Surgery and super DimensionÒ/Bronchus minimally invasive diagnosis.

MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando, part of Orlando Regional Healthcare, is affiliated with The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando in Houston. U.S. News & World Report ranked MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando one of the top two cancer facilities in the nation for 2005 and has done so for the past 16 years. Orlando Regional, a 1,652-bed community-owned, Florida not-for-profit organization established in 1918, annually serves more than 640,000 Central Florida residents and 4,500 international patients. More information is available at www.mdandersonorlando.org.

MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando Hires Dedicated Genetic Counselor to Help Families

9/22/2006 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, Fla. (Sept. 22, 2006) – MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando recently hired genetic counselor Ryan Bisson to help patients and their families assess their risk for hereditary cancer syndromes. Ryan will provide information and counseling to individuals with a personal or family history of cancer.

Ryan’s experience includes several clinical and laboratory rotations at Children’s Hospital Medical Center in Akron, Ohio, The MetroHealth Medical Center in Cleveland and University Hospitals of Cleveland. He holds a master’s of science in genetics from Case Western Reserve University in Cleveland and a bachelor’s in molecular genetics from Ohio State University.

MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando, part of Orlando Regional Healthcare, is affiliated with The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando in Houston. U.S. News & World Report ranked MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando one of the top two cancer facilities in the nation for 2005 and has done so for the past 16 years. Orlando Regional, a 1,652-bed community-owned, Florida not-for-profit organization established in 1918, annually serves more than 640,000 Central Florida residents and 4,500 international patients. More information is available at www.mdandersonorlando.org.

Panera Bread Honors National Breast Cancer Awareness Month with Pink Ribbon Bagels™

9/1/2006 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, Fla. (September 1, 2006) – Put smiles on the faces of your co-workers and thousands of local breast cancer patients by picking up a tray of Panera Bread’s signature Pink Ribbon Bagels for the office during Nation Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Throughout October, the limited edition Pink Ribbon Bagel will be sold in all 18 Central Florida bakery-cafes and in more than 900 locations nationwide, with a portion of the proceeds benefiting cancer facilities. Locally, Panera is proud to donate 25 cents from each Pink Ribbon Bagel to MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando. The change can quickly add up to thousands – previous promotions raised close to $50,000 locally.

“Panera Bread is committed to serving the members of the local community, many of whom have had their lives touched by breast cancer,” said Annette Ford Owner of all Central Florida Panera Bread locations. “We are honored to support Women Playing For T.I.M.E.^TM and MD Anderson – Orlando in their search for a cure.”

MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando, part of Orlando Regional Healthcare, is affiliated with The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando in Houston. U.S. News & World Report ranked MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando one of the top two cancer facilities in the nation for 2005 and has done so for the past 16 years. Orlando Regional, a 1,652-bed community-owned, Florida not-for-profit organization established in 1918, annually serves more than 640,000 Central Florida residents and 4,500 international patients. More information is available at www.mdandersonorlando.org.

Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children Participates in National Migraine Study

8/11/2006 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, FL (August 11, 2006) – The Congenital Heart Institute at Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children is the only cardiac center in Florida participating in the ESCAPE (Effect of Septal Closure of Atrial PFO on Events of Migraine with Premere™) migraine trial sponsored by St. Jude Medical. The clinical trial will explore the link between a common congenital heart structure called a patent foramen ovale (PFO), a tiny hole in the heart, and migraine headaches to determine if closing the PFO with a small device reduces the frequency or intensity of migraine headaches. Dr. David Nykanen, director of the cardiac catheterization laboratory at the Congenital Heart Institute, recently performed the first implant on a study participant in the state of Florida.

“We are very excited about participating in this clinical trial and being the only selected implanting hospital in Florida,” said Nykanen. “We are looking forward to seeing the results of the study as it may lead to new treatments for migraine headaches.”

A PFO is a structural defect of the heart that occurs when a small opening in the wall between the two upper chambers of the heart fail to close during infancy. The PFO is closed with a small investigational device called the Premere PFO™ Closure System. Physicians use a catheter to guide the device through a vein in the upper leg to the heart where they implant the device to close the PFO.

Since no one knows if closing the PFO offers a true benefit to patients with severe migraines this study is very structured. As a controlled, randomized, blinded study, participants will not know if they receive the device or not. Participants are between the ages of 18 and 55. The trial received approval from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for an Investigative Device Exemption (IDE) in December 2005 and will be conducted at 45 leading headache clinics and 15 leading interventional cardiology centers around the country.

An estimated 30 million Americans – about 10 percent of the population – suffer from migraine headaches. Evidence has suggested that patients who have migraine headaches, particularly migraines with aura (visual or auditory sensation) are more likely to have a PFO than individuals who do not suffer from migraines.

Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children, supported by the Arnold Palmer Medical Center Foundation, is a 158-bed facility dedicated exclusively to the needs of children. Located in Orlando, Arnold Palmer Hospital includes comprehensive, specialized programs and services for children including acute care, adolescent medicine, a Congenital Heart Institute in partnership with Miami Children’s Hospital, pediatric intensive care, emergency medicine, nephrology, neurology and trauma services to name a few. To learn more, visit www.arnoldpalmerhospital.org.

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8th Annual Miracle Miles 15K, 5K & Kids’ Fun Runs Presented by Chick-fil-A

8/11/2006 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, FL (August 11, 2006) -- Runners from across Central Florida, the state and southeast will participate in the 8th Annual Miracle Miles 15K and 5K runs on Saturday, September 2, at Winnie Palmer Hospital for Women and Babies, 83 W. Miller Street, Orlando. The 15K run begins at 7 a.m. followed by the 5K at 7:10 a.m. A
Kids’ Fun Run will be held at 9:30 a.m. Proceeds from the event benefit the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit at Winnie Palmer Hospital.

“While Lake Eola was a wonderful home away from home for the event when the new Winnie Palmer Hospital for Women & Babies was under construction, we’re pleased to be back home where it all began,” explained Dr. Gregor Alexander, neonatologist, Winnie Palmer Hospital and founding physician of Miracle Miles. “We are also grateful for the support of our presenting sponsor – Chick-fil-A. Through their support and that of everyone involved with Miracle Miles, many tiny lives will be saved and forever touched.”

Entry fees through Saturday, August 26 are $23 – 15K; $18 – 5K and from August 27 – September 1 - $26 – 15K; $20 – 5K. The Kids’ Fun Run is free. Participants can register online through August 31 at www.trackshack.com. Miracle Miles is only one of three 15Ks in Florida and the only one in Orlando. For more information, call (407) 898-1313.

Winnie Palmer Hospital for Women & Babies, supported by the Arnold Palmer Medical Center Foundation, is a 273-bed facility dedicated exclusively to the needs of women and babies. The hospital includes comprehensive fetal diagnostics and labor and delivery services, a regional center for neonatal intensive care, maternal intensive care and women’s services. Annually, more than 12,000 babies are expected to be born at Winnie Palmer Hospital, making it the busiest labor and delivery unit in the state of Florida. To learn more, visit www.winniepalmerhospital.org.

Chick-fil-A Announced as Presenting Sponsor for the 8th Annual Miracle Miles 15K/5K Run

8/8/2006 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, FL (August 8, 2006) - The Arnold Palmer Medical Center Foundation is proud to announce that Chick-fil-A will be the presenting sponsor for its 8th Annual Miracle Miles 15K/5K and Kids’ Fun Run on Saturday, September 2, at Winnie Palmer Hospital for Women & Babies. Proceeds from the event benefit the hospital’s Neonatal Intensive Care Unit.

“We are extremely pleased to have Chick-fil-A as our presenting sponsor,” said Dr. Gregor Alexander, neonatologist, Winnie Palmer Hospital for Women & Babies and founding physician of Miracle Miles. “Their support will help a great number of premature babies and their families here in Central Florida.”

Chick-fil-A has supported Miracle Miles for several years and will be on-site at the run providing Chick-fil-A sandwiches and brownies for participants. The Chick-fil-A cow mascots will also be there to help runners with their pre-run warm-ups.

"After three successful years participating in this event as an in-kind sponsor, we are excited to take our sponsorship to a new level, and we are committed to helping Miracle Miles grow in the future,"said Tanya Easterling, area marketing director, Chick-fil-A. More than 1,200 premature babies are cared for every year in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit at Winnie Palmer Hospital. The 112-bed unit is the fourth largest Neonatal Intensive Care Unit in the country with Level II and Level III beds for the highest level of care for the tiniest, most seriously ill babies. Additionally, it is one of only four in the state to provide Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation (ECMO), a heart-lung bypass procedure for babies with severe lung or heart failure.

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ResQPOD helps Code Team at ORMC

8/4/2006 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, Fla. (August 4, 2006) - Restarting a heart after cardiac arrest is top priority for the Code Team at Orlando Regional Medical Center (ORMC). The ResQPOD Circulatory Enhancer is a new device being used during cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) to help the team of nurses, respiratory therapists and doctors restore an efficient flow of blood and oxygen to the heart, brain and other organs - with the hope of increasing survival and improved quality of life.

“During basic CPR, a rescuer may use a portable respirator and hands to compress the blood to the heart and lungs to stimulate breathing and heartbeat which moves blood and oxygen to the brain,” said Terry Suarez, RRT, life support coordinator, Orlando Regional, and training coordinator for the Orlando Regional Healthcare American Heart Association Training Center.

A challenge with CPR is the possibility of delivery of too much air, too often, making the compressions less effective. ResQPOD is designed to reduce the chances and improve the quality of CPR, bringing new hope of more lives saved.

“ResQPOD, shaped similar to a cylinder, is a control valve that attaches to a bag mask valve respirator or a mask to help decrease the pressure in the chest to improve blood flow to the heart during decompression phase of CPR,” said Suarez. “Then with each compression, more blood will be pumped out to the brain and other vital organs. Imagine the heart is a sponge, this device helps fill up the sponge faster for the next squeeze. ResQPOD also flashes a light signal, to help clinicians maintains proper breathing rate and speed of compressions.”

While it is estimated that more than 95 percent of cardiac arrest victims die before reaching the hospital, death from cardiac arrest is not inevitable.
“CPR alone can double a victim’s chance of survival until more advanced care can be given,” said Suarez. “In the hospital setting, our Code Team always seeks ways to improve patient outcomes. In its winter 2005 guidelines for CPR and emergency cardiac care, the American Heart Association released new evidenced based guidelines that list Impendence Threshold Devices (ITD), such as ResQPOD, as a Class IIa device. We look forward to adding ResQPOD to our continued efforts in quality care for heart patients.”

In a statement regarding the Class IIa rating, the second highest rating possible, Dr. Keith Lurie, Chief Medical Officer of Advanced Circulatory Systems said, “We are very pleased that the AHA has given this new device a high recommendation for use during CPR. Our goals and those of the AHA are linked: to improve survival rates of patients who experience cardiac arrest both inside and outside the hospital. Survival rates in these events have been dismal and we believe more can be done to improve them . . .”

Orlando Regional Rehabilitation Institute earns three-year accreditation

8/4/2006 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, Fla. (August 4, 2006) - The Orlando Regional Rehabilitation Institute recently received at three-year accreditation from the Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities (CARF) for each of its 10 programs, including the Brain Injury Rehabilitation Program, the Inpatient Rehabilitation Program and the Outpatient Medical Rehabilitation Program.

CARF is an independent, not-for-profit organization that promotes quality rehabilitation services. CARF-accredited programs and services have demonstrated that they substantially meet internationally recognized standards and made a commitment to continually enhance the quality of its services and programs, and its focus is on consumer satisfaction.

“It is an honor to be recognized by rehabilitation experts,” said Carlos Carrasco, Rehabilitation Institute manager. “The accreditation awarded reflects the ongoing commitment to excellent care delivered daily by our professional and compassionate rehab staff.”

The CARF survey team specifically recognized the Rehabilitation Institute for several areas of strengths including its commitment to meet life-long rehabilitative needs of persons served, strong multidisciplinary clinic that serves individuals with spinal cord injuries through the entire continuum of care, staff development program and its outreach to seek input from patients.

Orlando Regional Rehabilitation Institute earns three-year accreditation

8/4/2006 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, Fla. (August 4, 2006)
The Orlando Regional Rehabilitation Institute recently received at three-year accreditation from the Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities (CARF) for each of its 10 programs, including the Brain Injury Rehabilitation Program, the Inpatient Rehabilitation Program and the Outpatient Medical Rehabilitation Program.

CARF is an independent, not-for-profit organization that promotes quality rehabilitation services. CARF-accredited programs and services have demonstrated that they substantially meet internationally recognized standards and made a commitment to continually enhance the quality of its services and programs, and its focus is on consumer satisfaction.

“It is an honor to be recognized by rehabilitation experts,” said Carlos Carrasco, Rehabilitation Institute manager. “The accreditation awarded reflects the ongoing commitment to excellent care delivered daily by our professional and compassionate rehab staff.” The CARF survey team specifically recognized the Rehabilitation Institute for several areas of strengths including its commitment to meet life-long rehabilitative needs of persons served, strong multidisciplinary clinic that serves individuals with spinal cord injuries through the entire continuum of care, staff development program and its outreach to seek input from patients to improve services.

Orlando Regional Healthcare, a 1,652-bed private, not-for-profit organization was established in 1918. The hospital system serves more than 640,000 Central Florida residents and 4,500 international patients annually. As a community-owned organization, Orlando Regional reinvests its profits into many one-of-a-kind, specialized services like Central Florida’s only Level One Trauma Center and statutory teaching hospital.

Another unique service is Arnold Palmer Hospital’s 23,500-square-foot, 33-bed Children’s Emergency Department & Trauma Center scheduled to open late 2006. U.S.News & World Report ranked Orlando Regional Healthcare as one of the nation’s best hospitals, Fortune magazine recognized Orlando Regional as one of the Top 100 Companies to Work for in America and the Herman Group designated Orlando Regional Healthcare an Employer of Choice.

More information is available at www.orlandoregional.org.

Visiting nurse association named recipient of Christopher Reeve Foundation quality of life grant

8/1/2006 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, Fla.

The Christopher Reeve Foundation (CRF) announced that Orlando Regional Visiting Nurse Association has been awarded a $7,500 Quality of Life grant to support respite care for care givers of spinal cord injury patients discharged from Orlando Regional Lucerne Hospital.

The Quality of Life grants program was conceived by Dana Reeve, Chairman of the Christopher Reeve Foundation and co-founder of the Christopher and Dana Reeve Paralysis Resource Center. Reeve started the program with the goal of helping people living with disabilities in the ‘hear and now.’ Grants are awarded to programs or projects that improve the well being of people living with paralysis, particularly spinal cord injuries.

Funding is awarded twice annually in thirteen categories, including: accessibility, advocacy, arts assistive technology, children, counseling, education, employment, health promotion, independent living, practical services, sports and recreation and therapeutic riding. Since 1999, CRPF has awarded 933 Quality of Life grants totaling $8 million. “I continue to be impressed and excited by the diverse, pioneering programs that CRF supports through the Quality of Life program,” said Kathy Lewis, CEO of the Christopher Reeve Foundation.

Funding will provide support services to Orlando Regional spinal cord injury caregivers to help prevent burnout. A blend of respite care and spiritual support will strengthen the caregiver and provide a means to cope with ongoing demands. Health Promotion grants, a special category Quality of Life grants, are funded through a cooperative agreement with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Funding is awarded to non-profit organizations that address the needs of people living with paralysis caused by spinal cord injuries and other diseases and birth conditions that result in paralysis.

Health Promotion grants strive to remove societal and environmental barriers that limit the abilities of individuals living with paralysis to participate in life activities. Scott Clark, Administrator of the Visiting Nurse Association is extremely honored to have received this Quality of Life Grant. He said, “as a result of the tremendous growth in Central Florida, the needs of spinal cord patients with limited resources continue to grow at an ever faster pace. This grant will allow our organization to expand respite services for caregivers of spinal injury patients and help them better cope with the adjustments they inevitably have to make. It’s great to be able to have the support of the Christopher Reeve Foundation. The Visiting Nurse Association will make every attempt to touch as many lives as possible.”

For more information about the Quality of Life program or the grant application process, please contact the Quality of Life Grants office at (973) 467-8270, ext 7211, or visit the website www.ChristopherReeve.org for a complete list of the Quality of Life grant recipients.

The Christopher Reeve Foundation (CFR) is committed to funding research that develops treatments and cures for paralysis caused by spinal cord injury and other central nervous system disorders. The Foundation also vigorously works to improve the quality of life for people living with disabilities through its grants program, paralysis resource center and advocacy efforts. Mission Statement: Orlando Regional Visiting Nurse Association is dedicated to improving the health and quality of life of the individuals and communities we serve. http://orlandoregional.org/services/home_health/vna/index.cfm at the end.

MD Anderson - Orlando Second in Nation to Offer New Breast Cancer Drug as Part of Trial

7/24/2006 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, Fla. (July 24, 2006) – MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando is the second site in the nation to participate in an expanded access trial for the drug Tykerb (lapatinib), which has shown favorable results for patients with aggressive HER2-positive breast cancer and for whom traditional treatments have failed.

Between 20 to 25 percent of breast cancer patients have HER2-positive, a fast-growing form of cancer that is more likely to return after treatment than other tumors. If the disease spreads to other organs, it is typically treated with the drug Herceptin, but the therapy is not effective for all patients.

Doctors hope the new drug Tykerb will help block the protein that feeds HER2-positive cancers in these patients. According to the National Cancer Institute, clinical trials for Tykerb show disease progression for patients at 8.5 months, compared to 4.5 months for patients treated with Herceptin alone.

“Tykerb has the potential to help a lot of patients facing HER2-positive cancer,” said Nikita Shah, M.D., medical oncologist at MD Anderson – Orlando. “It’s exciting to be one of the first sites in the country to bring this promising new drug to women.”

Expanded access trials are the final step to Food and Drug Administration approval for new drugs. MD Anderson – Orlando’s participation in the trial will allow Central Florida patients to receive the drug months before it is available to the general public.

Rehabilitation Institute hosts presentation

7/21/2006 12:00:00 AM

WHO: Orlando Regional Rehabilitation Institute Greater Orlando Spinal Cord Injury Network Christopher and Dana Reeve Paralysis Resource Center

WHAT: Gary Karp, speaker, author and trainer will present Life on Wheels, drawing from his personal experience with spinal cord injury since 1973, when he was injured at T12 in a fall from a tree at the age of 18. Gary’s presentation is sponsored in part by the Christopher & Dana Reeve Paralysis Resource Center. Karp is the author of "Life On Wheels: For the Active Wheelchair User" and "Choosing A Wheelchair: A Guide For Optimal Independence.” Also, his feature articles appear regularly in New Mobility magazine, and he is a board member of the National Spinal Cord Injury Association and editor of its newspaper, S-C-I Life. He is also a corporate trainer on disability and employment, an accomplished musician and juggler.

WHEN: Friday, July 21 11:30 a.m.

WHERE: Orlando Regional Lucerne Hospital 818 Main Lane Orlando

*Please contact media relations department for escort. PHOTO/VIDEO: Gary Karp Presentation attendees Hospital official Greater Orlando Spinal Cord Injury Network official

Orlando Regional Appoints Master Facility Planning Administrator to Downtown Campus

7/21/2006 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, Fla. (July 21, 2006)

To help build the way to future plans for Orlando Regional Healthcare’s downtown campus, Orlando Regional Medical Center (ORMC) recently appointed Bob Snyder as master facility planning administrator, ORMC and Orlando Regional Lucerne Hospital.

In his new role, Snyder will use his wealth of operational and construction experience and patient-centered focus strategies to coordinate operational aspects of the hospital’s project plan from the conceptual design process through project completion. Prior to joining the downtown campus, Snyder was ancillary services administrator at Orlando Regional Sand Lake Hospital where he played a significant role with Sand Lake Hospital’s planning team. Snyder’s hospital management career began as associate executive director, Humana Hospital in Kissimmee. He later served as chief operating officer, Waterman Medical Center in Eustis, and as administrator, Memorial Hospital Flagler, where he coordinated the planning and construction of its replacement facility. Snyder has served on several diverse community boards throughout Central Florida including the United Way, Chamber of Commerce and Rotary International. He received a bachelor’s degree from Siena College in New York, and a master’s degree in health care administration from the University of South Carolina, in Columbia, SC.

Orlando Regional Healthcare, a 1,652-bed private, not-for-profit organization was established in 1918. The hospital system serves more than 640,000 Central Florida residents and 4,500 international patients annually. As a community-owned organization, Orlando Regional reinvests its profits into many one-of-a-kind, specialized services like Central Florida’s only Level One Trauma Center and statutory teaching hospital. Another unique service is Arnold Palmer Hospital’s 23,500-square-foot, 33-bed Children’s Emergency Department & Trauma Center scheduled to open late 2006. U.S.News & World Report ranked Orlando Regional Healthcare as one of the nation’s best hospitals, Fortune magazine recognized Orlando Regional as one of the Top 100 Companies to Work for in America and the Herman Group designated Orlando Regional Healthcare an Employer of Choice.

MD Anderson - Orlando Appoints Medical Director for the Thoracic Care Center

7/10/2006 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, Fla. (July 10, 2006) --- MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando recently appointed Juan J. Herran, MD, as medical director of its dedicated Thoracic Care Center. Dr. Herran, a pulmonologist with the Pulmonary Practice of Orlando, will use his knowledge in the diagnosis and treatment of lung diseases to streamline care for the several hundred thoracic cancer patients the facility sees each year. He is board certified in internal medicine with subspecialty certifications in pulmonary disease and critical care medicine.

Dr. Herran has served as chairman of the medicine department for Orlando Regional Medical Center (ORMC) and as medical director of the Respiratory Intensive Care Unit (ICU) at Orlando Regional Lucerne Hospital since 2003. Other positions he has held at ORMC include serving as medical director for the ICU and Progressive Care Unit. He is fluent in Spanish and English.

Dr. Herran earned a medical degree from the University of Puerto Rico School of Medicine. He then completed an internship in medicine and fulfilled a residency in internal medicine at the Veterans Administration Hospital in Rio Piedras, Puerto Rico. He also completed a fellowship in respiratory medicine at Stanford University Medical Center in California.

Dr. Herran joins MD Anderson – Orlando’s Thoracic Care Center, which is a one-stop-shop for lung cancer patients to speak with the necessary board-certified thoracic surgeons, pulmonologists, nurses, radiologists, pathologists, counselors and oncologists. The center officially opened in January and offers patients a multi-disciplinary treatment approach with more state-of-the-art lung cancer diagnosis and treatment technologies than any other facility in Central Florida including external beam radiation therapy, TomoTherapy Hi•Art System®, Novalis Shaped Beam Surgery and super Dimension/Bronchus minimally invasive diagnosis.

Orlando Regional Healthcare Adds to Government Relations Team

7/5/2006 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, Fla. (July 5, 2006)

Strengthening its efforts to build relationships with government leaders to impact and formulate public policies on health care, Orlando Regional Healthcare recently named Amanda Conochalla as government relations manager. As government relations manager Conochalla will work on public policy issues on the federal, state, and local levels, while educating the community and serving as an advocate for quality health care. Before joining Orlando Regional, Amanda worked in the Government and Community Relations Department at Darden Restaurants. A University of Central Florida graduate with a bachelor’s degree in political science. Orlando Regional Healthcare, a 1,652-bed private, not-for-profit organization was established in 1918. The hospital system serves more than 640,000 Central Florida residents and 4,500 international patients annually. As a community-owned organization, Orlando Regional reinvests its profits into many one-of-a-kind, specialized services like Central Florida’s only Level One Trauma Center and statutory teaching hospital. U.S.News & World Report ranked Orlando Regional Healthcare as one of the nation’s best hospitals, Fortune magazine recognized Orlando Regional as one of the Top 100 Companies to Work for in America and the Herman Group designated Orlando Regional Healthcare an Employer of Choice.

More information is available at www.orlandoregional.org.

ResQPOD helps Code Team at ORMC

6/15/2006 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, Fla. (June 15, 2006)

Restarting a heart after cardiac arrest is top priority for the Code Team at Orlando Regional Medical Center (ORMC). The ResQPOD? Circulatory Enhancer is a new device being used during cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) to help the team of nurses, respiratory therapists and doctors restore an efficient flow of blood and oxygen to the heart, brain and other organs — with the hope of increasing survival and improved quality of life. “During basic CPR, a rescuer may use a portable respirator and hands to compress the blood to the heart and lungs to stimulate breathing and heartbeat which moves blood and oxygen to the brain,” said Terry Suarez, RRT, life support coordinator, Orlando Regional, and training coordinator for the Orlando Regional Healthcare American Heart Association Training Center. A challenge with CPR is the possibility of delivery of too much air, too often, making the compressions less effective. ResQPOD is designed to reduce the chances and improve the quality of CPR, bringing new hope of more lives saved. “ResQPOD, shaped similar to a cylinder, is a control valve that attaches to a bag mask valve respirator or a mask to help decrease the pressure in the chest to improve blood flow to the heart during decompression phase of CPR,” said Suarez. “Then with each compression, more blood will be pumped out to the brain and other vital organs.

Imagine the heart is a sponge, this device helps fill up the sponge faster for the next squeeze. ResQPOD also flashes a light signal, to help clinicians maintains proper breathing rate and speed of compressions.” While it is estimated that more than 95 percent of cardiac arrest victims die before reaching the hospital, death from cardiac arrest is not inevitable. “CPR alone can double a victim’s chance of survival until more advanced care can be given,” said Suarez. “In the hospital setting, our Code Team always seeks ways to improve patient outcomes. In its winter 2005 guidelines for CPR and emergency cardiac care, the American Heart Association released new evidenced based guidelines that list Impendence Threshold Devices (ITD), such as ResQPOD, as a Class IIa device. We look forward to adding ResQPOD to our continued efforts in quality care for heart patients.”

College Students Learn About Cancer Risk

6/15/2006 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, Fla. (June 15, 2006) – Final exams and football championships typically consume the thoughts of college students, but a new educational video produced by MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando strives to move cancer prevention to the front of their minds instead. Exams for Life is a 50-minute video designed to educate college-age men and women about the importance of performing self-exams for skin, breast and testicular cancers. Currently, the video is shown at Rollins College in Orlando and will soon be integrated into university wellness programs throughout the Southeast.

Exams for Life features a personal story of breast cancer survival from Orlando News Anchor Wendy Chioji and step-by-step demonstrations by health clinicians of self-exams, along with descriptions of which abnormalities require medical attention. The goal of Exams for Life is to encourage young people to look for any changes in their bodies that could lead to disease, as the key to cancer survival is early detection.

The program was created by former MD Anderson – Orlando patient and Rollins College alum Lucy Gordon after her battle with breast cancer. “There’s a misconception that cancer only strikes the elderly. The truth is cancer attacked me in my 40s, when I least expected it,” said Gordon. “The key to cancer survival is catching the disease early, and college students are at the perfect age to develop the potentially life-saving habit of performing regular self-exams.”

MD Anderson – Orlando hopes to educate the students about their risk of developing cancer. The statistics speak for themselves: one in eight women will develop breast cancer in her lifetime; testicular cancer is the most common cancer in men ages 15 to 34; more than one million cases of skin cancer occur every year and most people receive 80 percent of their lifetime sun exposure by age 18.

MD Anderson – Orlando recently presented Exams for Life to the Southern College Health Association and received rave reviews. Representatives from Duke University, Florida Gulf Coast University, Georgia State University, Emory University, the University of South Carolina and Florida State University are now in the planning stages of bringing cancer prevention education to their students. In June, Imagination UNLIMITED, Inc., the producer of Exams for Life, was honored with a national Videographer Award recognizing the project’s excellence.

MD Anderson - Orlando Research Attempts to Ease Side Effects of Radiation

5/17/2006 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, Fla. (May 17, 2006) – A research study is underway at MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando that may help patients with head and neck cancers receive potentially life-saving radiation therapy with less damage to sensitive salivary glands which produce saliva and help with swallowing and eating. By recalculating the intensity of treatment needed by the patient on a daily basis, radiation oncologists believe they can ensure that changes in a patient’s body weight and the size and shape of a patient’s tumor can be taken into account. The oncologists want to ensure patients aren’t exposed to more radiation than needed.

Head and neck cancers are typically difficult to treat because tumors are located in sensitive areas where surgery may not be a viable option, e.g. the back of the tongue or jaw. In decades past, these hard-to-reach cancers were treated with broad blasts of radiation to the entire region, sometimes damaging nearby healthy tissue like salivary glands. Today’s radiation treatments are far more advanced, allowing oncologists to mark and specifically target tumors sparing much of the surrounding tissue; thereby “sculpting” the dose of radiation. However, what is less clear is how changes in a patient’s anatomy resulting from weight loss, patient fatigue and changes in physiologic function affect the quality and quantity of radiation delivery when radiation is “sculpted” in this manner. Oncologists at MD Anderson – Orlando are looking at methods of mathematically tracking changes in patients’ anatomy in space using daily CT imaging and then studying how these changes affect dose delivery. The long term goal is to optimize treatment for each patient and determine whether regular recalculations of radiation doses can further improve the treatment.

“Patients often lose weight during radiation causing tumors to shrink and move, which could mean the treatment planned for the patient on day one may be too intense for the same patient on day 28,” said Rafael Mañon, MD, radiation oncologist at MD Anderson – Orlando. “The goal is to tailor treatment for patients every step of the way, to ensure we are not giving them more radiation than they need and we are accurately targeting the cancer field. The hope is to preserve healthy tissue in our patients and prevent the sometimes debilitating loss of salivary glands.”

The research team, including Rafael Mañon, M.D., Sanford Meeks, Ph.D., and Patrick Kupelian, M.D., is studying CT Scans of former head and neck cancer patients, but the new recalculation method will not be used on current patients until more information can be gathered. Dr. Mañon and his team will present their findings in November at the annual American Society for Therapeutic Radiology and Oncology conference.

Orlando Regional Medical Center hosts Mock Trauma event to raise awareness

4/24/2006 12:00:00 AM

WHO: Orlando Regional Level One Trauma Team Orlando Regional Medical Center’s (ORMC) Surgery and Critical Care Teams, as clinicians Mayor Richard T. Crotty, Orange County, as patient’s family member Kelley Mossburg, Chief Operating Officer, CNL Financial Group, Inc. and Chair of the Orlando Regional Chamber of Commerce’s One for All, as patient

WHAT: Mock Trauma event to demonstrate the comprehensive, specialized care provided exclusively at Central Florida’s only Level One Trauma Center - from the moment of injury through definitive care (the precious golden hour) and recovery. During the Mock Trauma event, a patient will be treated in the trauma center for multiple injuries, taken to surgery and cared for in the Burn/Trauma Unit.

WHERE: Orlando Regional Level One Trauma Center

WHEN: Monday, April 24, 2006 2 p.m., Meet in the main lobby, ORMC, 1414 Kuhl Avenue, 3:30 p.m., Mock Trauma event debrief

WHY: A prelude to Trauma Awareness Month (May), the Mock Trauma event is an opportunity to raise awareness of Level One trauma services among Central Florida residents and government and community leaders. For more than two decades, the most critically injured patients from the Central Florida region have relied on ORMC’s multidisciplinary team of clinicians to provide life-saving care at a moment’s notice. In the last five years alone, volumes at the trauma center have risen 40 percent. Treating more than 4000 patients per year, the trauma center is a critical, compelling, community asset. The majority of trauma patients at ORMC are from motor-vehicle related injuries. Level One trauma services often mean the difference between life and death, and can significantly improve the quality of life following a traumatic injury. Traumatic injury is the leading cause of death for people between the ages of 1 and 44. It accounts for more years of life lost than heart attack, cancer and stroke combined.

INTERVIEWS: Orlando Regional Level One Trauma Team Orlando Regional Medical Center’s Surgery and Critical Care Teams ORMC Administration Mayor Richard T. Crotty, Orange County Kelley Mossburg, Chief Operating Officer, CNL Financial Group, Inc. and Chair of the Orlando Regional Chamber of Commerce’s One for All Please note, patient privacy guidelines will be enforced throughout this Mock Trauma event. Only the Mock Trauma event and its participants will be available for interviews, photographs or video. While it is our intent for both reporters and photographers to capture the Mock Trauma event, due to spacing concerns and other logistical matters, there may be areas where only photographers are allowed.

Free Boutique for Breast Cancer Patients Now Open

4/20/2006 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, Fla. (April 20, 2006) -- Breast cancer patients can stop scouring the town for post-mastectomy necessities and start focusing on recovery thanks to MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando’s new boutique offering free, comfort items and hard-to-find products. When “Harriett’s” officially opens on Monday, April 10, it will be Central Florida’s first free store designed with breast cancer patients in mind – offering convenience and comfort in Orlando Regional Medical Center’s new Breast Care Center located on the third floor of the Ambulatory Care Center at 22 Underwood St. The Breast Care Center, supported by MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando and The Surgical Group of Orlando, opened its doors last month with the goal of being a one-stop-shop for women who have had abnormal breast exams or mammograms.

The new boutique was made possible through the efforts of Women Playing for T.I.M.E.® (Technology, Immediate diagnosis, Mammography and Education) and a $500,000 donation from local philanthropist Harriett Lake. The volunteer group envisioned a place where each and every breast cancer patient at MD Anderson – Orlando could receive an item of her choice from a fluffy teddy bear to hug during chemotherapy treatments to a functional camisole to comfortably tote drainage tubes after surgery.

The ladies were inspired to open Harriett’s when they learned that many Central Florida women were making their own crude versions of the post-mastectomy camisole by cutting up their husbands’ old t-shirts and sewing the arms back on as pockets for the tubes. WPFT refused to let women search the town in vain for necessities like the camisoles or fashionable scarves to cover their newly hairless heads. So, they reached out to MD Anderson – Orlando for space for the boutique and to Mrs. Lake for the funds to turn the concept into Central Florida’s first free specialty shop for breast cancer patients.

“It surprised us that there wasn’t another shop like Harriett’s anywhere in the area,” said Elaine Lustig, co-founder of WPFT. “Breast cancer patients are burdened enough without the added worry of trying to locate hard-to-find items to help them through their treatment. We hope Harriett’s will relieve these brave women from at least one of their worries.”

Each new breast cancer patient to visit MD Anderson – Orlando’s dedicated Breast Care Center will receive a gift certificate for one free item at Harriett’s. Donations to WPFT will be accepted from those wishing to receive multiple items. Harriett’s will be open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. For more information about Harriett’s please call 321-841-2272.

Women Playing for T.I.M.E. was formed in 1993 and has made a tremendous contribution to MD Anderson – Orlando ever since by helping fund the purchase of a Helical Tomotherapy radiation machine, establishing of a state of the art breast cancer screening, diagnostic and treatment center, and spearheading numerous educational outreach programs. The group has also helped fund research for prevention, treatment and a cure for breast cancer, all while raising hope for women afflicted by the disease. The ladies continue to generate support for the cancer center raising an average of $450,000 per year through their popular golf and tennis tournaments.

SunTrust pledges major support for Level I Trauma Center at Orlando Regional Healthcare

4/10/2006 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, Fla. (April 10, 2006)

The Orlando Regional Healthcare Foundation is very pleased to announce that SunTrust Bank has pledged $400,000 in support of the Orlando Regional Level One Trauma Center. This gift was announced on April 9 at One Night – the inaugural event to support Central Florida’s only Level One Trauma Center. “We are very pleased with the leadership and generosity demonstrated by SunTrust and by SunTrust Bank Central Florida’s Chairman, President, and CEO, Ray Sandhagen,” said John Bozard, president, Orlando Regional Healthcare Foundation. “SunTrust has strong roots in the Central Florida community, and has always been an active and generous corporate citizen.

With the explosive growth in Central Florida, as well as the rising needs of trauma care, SunTrust and Ray Sandhagen have taken a major leadership role.” “Trauma can happen to anyone of us at any time. Life-saving care is not optional – it is essential,” said Ray Sandhagen. “Those who live, work or travel in Central Florida have a vested interest in the quality and availability of trauma care in our region. That’s why SunTrust has pledged $400,000 in support of this critical, community asset.” The One Night celebration, held at The Mall at Millenia, featured the miraculous and inspirational story of trauma survivor, Amanda Cole. Cole was severely injured in a 2005 car crash – the most common cause of injury treated by ORMC’s trauma center. Traumatic injury is the leading cause of death for people between the ages of 1 and 44. It accounts for more years of life lost than heart attack, cancer, and stroke combined. The majority of trauma patients at ORMC are from motor-vehicle related injuries.

For more than two decades, the most critically injured patients from the Central Florida region have relied on the Level One Trauma Center to provide life-saving care at a moment’s notice. Level One Trauma services often mean the difference between life and death, and can significantly improve the quality of life following a traumatic injury. Orlando Regional Healthcare, a 1,652-bed private, not-for-profit organization was established in 1918. The hospital system serves more than 640,000 Central Florida residents and 4,500 international patients annually. U.S. News & World Report ranked Orlando Regional Healthcare as one of the nation’s best hospitals. Fortune magazine recognized Orlando Regional as one of the Top 100 Companies to Work for in America and the Herman Group designated Orlando Regional Healthcare an Employer of Choice.

More information is available at www.orlandoregional.org.

sunTrust pledges major support for Level I Trauma Center at Orlando Regional Healthcare

4/6/2006 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, Fla. (April 10, 2006) - The Orlando Regional Healthcare Foundation is very pleased to announce that SunTrust Bank has pledged $400,000 in support of the Orlando Regional Level One Trauma Center. This gift was announced on April 9 at One Night – the inaugural event to support Central Florida’s only Level One Trauma Center.

“We are very pleased with the leadership and generosity demonstrated by SunTrust and by SunTrust Bank Central Florida’s Chairman, President, and CEO, Ray Sandhagen,” said John Bozard, president, Orlando Regional Healthcare Foundation. “SunTrust has strong roots in the Central Florida community, and has always been an active and generous corporate citizen. With the explosive growth in Central Florida, as well as the rising needs of trauma care, SunTrust and Ray Sandhagen have taken a major leadership role.”

“Trauma can happen to anyone of us at any time. Life-saving care is not optional – it is essential,” said Ray Sandhagen. “Those who live, work or travel in Central Florida have a vested interest in the quality and availability of trauma care in our region. That’s why SunTrust has pledged $400,000 in support of this critical, community asset.”

The One Night celebration, held at The Mall at Millenia, featured the miraculous and inspirational story of trauma survivor, Amanda Cole. Cole was severely injured in a 2005 car crash – the most common cause of injury treated by ORMC’s trauma center.

Traumatic injury is the leading cause of death for people between the ages of 1 and 44. It accounts for more years of life lost than heart attack, cancer, and stroke combined. The majority of trauma patients at ORMC are from motor-vehicle related injuries.

For more than two decades, the most critically injured patients from the Central Florida region have relied on the Level One Trauma Center to provide life-saving care at a moment’s notice. Level One Trauma services often mean the difference between life and death, and can significantly improve the quality of life following a traumatic injury.

Orlando Regional Healthcare Opens New Medical Pavilion

4/4/2006 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, Fla. (April 4, 2006) - A patient’s before and after care is just as important to recovery as the actual hospital visit. To better serve patients during these times, Orlando Regional Healthcare opened the Orlando Regional Medical Pavilion on Monday, April 3, 2006. The Pavilion, formerly the Central Florida Blood Bank, on 32 West Gore St., will house outpatient services such as Pre-Admission Testing, Patient Business, Outpatient Lab (draw station) and Radiology (basic imaging) in one convenient location. Cardiac and Pulmonary Rehabilitation will relocate to the building later this month. Internal Medicine Faculty Practices, Neurology Faculty Practices, Neurodiagnostics, the Orlando Regional Memory Disorder Clinic, the Orlando Regional Epilepsy Clinic, and several other physician practices are scheduled to open this summer.

“Establishing the Medical Pavilion is part of our continued efforts to invest in new ways to care for our patients,” said Beth Boyer-Kollas, Ph.D., an administrator for the Medical Pavilion and Ancillary Services at Orlando Regional Lucerne Hospital. “The one-stop location for outpatient services is centrally located to enhance access and convenience.”

In addition to having services in a central location, a dedicated parking lot is available to patients. For more information about services at the new Medical Pavilion, call (321) 841-8500.

Orlando Regional Healthcare Opens New Medical Pavilion

4/4/2006 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, Fla. (April 4, 2006)

A patient’s before and after care is just as important to recovery as the actual hospital visit. To better serve patients during these times, Orlando Regional Healthcare opened the Orlando Regional Medical Pavilion on Monday, April 3, 2006. The Pavilion, formerly the Central Florida Blood Bank, on 32 West Gore St., will house outpatient services such as Pre-Admission Testing, Patient Business, Outpatient Lab (draw station) and Radiology (basic imaging) in one convenient location. Cardiac and Pulmonary Rehabilitation will relocate to the building later this month.

Internal Medicine Faculty Practices, Neurology Faculty Practices, Neurodiagnostics, the Orlando Regional Memory Disorder Clinic, the Orlando Regional Epilepsy Clinic, and several other physician practices are scheduled to open this summer. “Establishing the Medical Pavilion is part of our continued efforts to invest in new ways to care for our patients,” said Beth Boyer-Kollas, Ph.D., an administrator for the Medical Pavilion and Ancillary Services at Orlando Regional Lucerne Hospital. “The one-stop location for outpatient services is centrally located to enhance access and convenience.” In addition to having services in a central location, a dedicated parking lot is available to patients.

For more information about services at the new Medical Pavilion, call (321) 841-8500.

Orlando Regional Healthcare, a 1,652-bed private, not-for-profit organization was established in 1918. The hospital system serves more than 640,000 Central Florida residents and 4,500 international patients annually. As a community-owned organization, Orlando Regional reinvests its profits into many one-of-a-kind, specialized services like Central Florida’s only Level I trauma center and statutory teaching hospital. U.S.News & World Report ranked Orlando Regional Healthcare as one of the nation’s best hospitals, Fortune magazine recognized Orlando Regional as one of the Top 100 Companies to Work for in America and the Herman Group designated Orlando Regional Healthcare an Employer of Choice.

More information is available at www.orlandoregional.org.

Orlando Regional Healthcare Announces New Vice President of Corporate Integrity

4/3/2006 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, Fla. (April 3, 2006)

Continuing its commitment to corporate and federal compliance guidelines, Orlando Regional Healthcare recently named David Huddleson as vice president, Corporate Integrity. Huddleson will maintain his role as corporate compliance and audit officer. His areas of responsibility include Corporate Compliance and Internal Audit Department and the Offices of Privacy and Information Security system wide. With certification in public accounting and in health care compliance, Huddleson’s unique training and experience provides effective leadership in corporate integrity initiatives at Orlando Regional.

In his 12 years of experience at Orlando Regional, he has served in many roles including director of International Business, director of Managed Care Contracting and most recently as director of Corporate Compliance and Internal Audit. He has a bachelor’s degree in accounting, a master’s degree in business administration as well as health services administration.

Orlando Regional Healthcare, a 1,652-bed private, not-for-profit organization was established in 1918. The hospital system serves more than 640,000 Central Florida residents and 4,500 international patients annually. As a community-owned organization, Orlando Regional reinvests its profits into many one-of-a-kind, specialized services like Central Florida’s only Level I Trauma Center and statutory teaching hospital. U.S.News & World Report ranked Orlando Regional Healthcare as one of the nation’s best hospitals, Fortune magazine recognized Orlando Regional as one of the Top 100 Companies to Work for in America and the Herman Group designated Orlando Regional Healthcare an Employer of Choice.

More information is available at www.orlandoregional.org.

Orlando Regional Healthcare Adds an Internal Audit Manager

4/3/2006 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, Fla. (April 3, 2006)

Knowledge and experience added up to a promotion to internal audit manager for Cary D’Ortona. In his new role at Orlando Regional Healthcare, D’Ortona will be responsible for the continued development and daily management of the Internal Audit Department, including financial, operational, compliance and IT audits. He has worked at Orlando Regional since 2004 as a financial manager/consultant. Before joining Orlando Regional, D’Ortona worked for Ernst & Young, LLP as a senior auditor. D’Ortona, a certified public accountant, earned a bachelor of science and master of science in accounting from the University of Central Florida.

Orlando Regional Healthcare, a 1,652-bed private, not-for-profit organization was established in 1918. The hospital system serves more than 640,000 Central Florida residents and 4,500 international patients annually. As a community-owned organization, Orlando Regional reinvests its profits into many one-of-a-kind, specialized services like Central Florida’s only Level I Trauma Center and statutory teaching hospital. U.S.News & World Report ranked Orlando Regional Healthcare as one of the nation’s best hospitals, Fortune magazine recognized Orlando Regional as one of the Top 100 Companies to Work for in America and the Herman Group designated Orlando Regional Healthcare an Employer of Choice.

More information is available at www.orlandoregional.org.

MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando Hires a Director of Hematology/Oncology Fellowship

3/24/2006 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, Fla. (March 24, 2006) - MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando is one step closer to developing a new fellowship program with the hire of Said Baidas, MD., as director of the center’s hematology/oncology fellowship. Currently, the facility has the only accredited teaching hospital cancer program in Central Florida and is one of only eight in the entire state. Dr. Baidas has been charged with creating a complementary program scheduled to accept its first hematology and oncology fellows in July 2007.

It’s no small task for the seasoned doctor who will also have a large clinical practice at MD Anderson – Orlando in several specialty sections, including coagulation disorders with emphasis on high risk pregnancy and infertility problems. Dr. Baidas also has a wide experience in treating patients with breast cancer, CNS tumors, lymphomas and hematology.

Dr. Baidas most recently served as director of the hematology/oncology fellowship training program at Georgetown University Medical Center/Lombardi Cancer Center for the past six years. He also held the position of associate professor of medicine and oncology at the center. Dr. Baidas is Board certified in the specialties of medicine, oncology and hematology.

Through research and hands-on experience, MD Anderson – Orlando fellows will have the tools to better treat cancer patients. Fellows will receive training to enable them to provide high quality care to patients within their specialty upon completion of the fellowship.

VISITING NURSE ASSOCIATION NAMED RECIPIENT OF CHRISTOPHER REEVE FOUNDATION QUALITY OF LIFE GRANT

3/23/2006 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, Fla. (March 23, 2006) --- The Christopher Reeve Foundation (CRF) announced that Orlando Regional Visiting Nurse Association has been awarded a $7,500 Quality of Life grant to support respite care for caregivers of spinal cord injury patients discharged from Orlando Regional Lucerne Hospital.

The Quality of Life grants program was conceived by Dana Reeve, Chairman of the Christopher Reeve Foundation and co-founder of the Christopher and Dana Reeve Paralysis Resource Center. Reeve started the program with the goal of helping people living with disabilities in the ‘here and now.’ Grants are awarded to programs or projects that improve the well being of people living with paralysis, particularly spinal cord injuries. Funding is awarded twice annually in thirteen categories, including: accessibility, advocacy, arts assistive technology, children, counseling, education, employment, health promotion, independent living, practical services, sports and recreation and therapeutic riding. Since 1999, CRPF has awarded 933 Quality of Life grants totaling $8 million.

“I continue to be impressed and excited by the diverse, pioneering programs that CRF supports through the Quality of Life program,” said Kathy Lewis, CEO of the Christopher Reeve Foundation.

Funding will provide support services to Orlando Regional spinal cord injury caregivers to help prevent burnout. A blend of respite care and spiritual support will strengthen the caregiver and provide a means to cope with ongoing demands.

Health Promotion grants, a special category Quality of Life grants, are funded through a cooperative agreement with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Funding is awarded to non-profit organizations that address the needs of people living with paralysis caused by spinal cord injuries and other diseases and birth conditions that result in paralysis. Health Promotion grants strive to remove societal and environmental barriers that limit the abilities of individuals living with paralysis to participate in life activities.

Scott Clark, Administrator of the Visiting Nurse Association is extremely honored to have received this Quality of Life Grant. He said, “as a result of the tremendous growth in Central Florida, the needs of spinal cord patients with limited resources continue to grow at an ever faster pace. This grant will allow our organization to expand respite services for caregivers of spinal injury patients and help them better cope with the adjustments they inevitably have to make. It’s great to be able to have the support of the Christopher Reeve Foundation. The Visiting Nurse Association will make every attempt to touch as many lives as possible.”

For more information about the Quality of Life program or the grant application process, please contact the Quality of Life Grants office at (973) 467-8270, ext 7211, or visit the website www.ChristopherReeve.org for a complete list of the Quality of Life grant recipients.

The Christopher Reeve Foundation (CFR) is committed to funding research that develops treatments and cures for paralysis caused by spinal cord injury and other central nervous system disorders. The Foundation also vigorously works to improve the quality of life for people living with disabilities through its grants program, paralysis resource center and advocacy efforts.

Mission Statement: Orlando Regional Visiting Nurse Association is dedicated to improving the health and quality of life of the individuals and communities we serve.

ORMC orthopaedic surgeons and residents round with Japanese Orthopaedic Association Fellows

3/10/2006 12:00:00 AM

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Editor’s Note: Interview opportunity today (3/10) at 10:00 a.m. during pediatric orthopedic office visits, Pediatric Outpatient Center, 89 W. Copeland Drive. ORLANDO, Fla. (March 10, 2006) --- Doctors and residents at Orlando Regional Medical Center make rounds with Japanese Orthopaedic Association (JOA) Fellows during their 2006 United States tour. The medical staff and doctors in training will prescribe a dose of interactive learning experiences as Fellows participate in clinical and surgical observations and a tour of the downtown medical campus.

The tour is part of the American Orthopaedic Association (AOA) – Japanese Orthopedic Association Exchange Traveling Fellowship Program. The program recognizes young leaders for their early contributions to orthopaedics, while striving to promote leadership skills in the broader orthopaedic community through hospital tours with the world’s orthopaedic leaders and previous AOA Fellows. This helps prepare the Fellows for greater challenges of the specialty.

Orlando Regional is honored to have been selected for its reputation as a leading orthopaedic institution, showing the latest advances in patient care and technology, and looks forward to meeting with the JOA Fellows to share aspects of its rich history and current clinical advances.

“Our unique graduate medical education program affords opportunities typically found at university-based teaching programs,” said Dr. Andrew Burgess, academic chairman and director of trauma, Medical Education Orthopeadics and Orthopaedic Faculty Practice. “On a daily basis our orthopaedic residents interact with and receive knowledge from practicing academic faculty members and community orthopedic surgeons in adult and pediatric orthopaedics and take part in unique, complex hands-on cases, at a diverse medical campus that includes Central Florida’s only Level I Trauma Center.”

ORMC orthopaedic surgeons and residents round with Japanese Orthopaedic Association Fellows

3/10/2006 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, Fla. (March 10, 2006)

Doctors and residents at Orlando Regional Medical Center make rounds with Japanese Orthopaedic Association (JOA) Fellows during their 2006 United States tour. The medical staff and doctors in training will prescribe a dose of interactive learning experiences as Fellows participate in clinical and surgical observations and a tour of the downtown medical campus. The tour is part of the American Orthopaedic Association (AOA) – Japanese Orthopedic Association Exchange Traveling Fellowship Program. The program recognizes young leaders for their early contributions to orthopaedics, while striving to promote leadership skills in the broader orthopaedic community through hospital tours with the world’s orthopaedic leaders and previous AOA Fellows. This helps prepare the Fellows for greater challenges of the specialty. Orlando Regional is honored to have been selected for its reputation as a leading orthopaedic institution, showing the latest advances in patient care and technology, and looks forward to meeting with the JOA Fellows to share aspects of its rich history and current clinical advances. “Our unique graduate medical education program affords opportunities typically found at university-based teaching programs,” said Dr. Andrew Burgess, academic chairman and director of trauma, Medical Education Orthopeadics and Orthopaedic Faculty Practice. “On a daily basis our orthopaedic residents interact with and receive knowledge from practicing academic faculty members and community orthopedic surgeons in adult and pediatric orthopaedics and take part in unique, complex hands-on cases, at a diverse medical campus that includes Central Florida’s only Level I Trauma Center.”

Orlando Regional Healthcare, a 1,652-bed private, not-for-profit organization was established in 1918. The hospital system serves more than 640,000 Central Florida residents and 4,500 international patients annually. As a community-owned organization, Orlando Regional reinvests its profits into many one-of-a-kind, specialized services like Central Florida’s only Level I Trauma Center and statutory teaching hospital. U.S.News & World Report ranked Orlando Regional Healthcare as one of the nation’s best hospitals, Fortune magazine recognized Orlando Regional as one of the Top 100 Companies to Work for in America and the Herman Group designated Orlando Regional Healthcare an Employer of Choice.

More information is available at www.orlandoregional.org.

Health care clinicians trade places, become patients to better understand heart disease

3/1/2006 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, Fla. (March 1, 2006) -Doctors, nurses, respiratory therapists and other health care clinicians at Orlando Regional Medical Center will walk in the footsteps of patients with heart failure as they participate in the Heart FX Pod Program - an awareness program by AstraZeneca that includes a heart failure simulator. The exhibit vehicle makes a stop at Orlando Regional Medical Center on March 2-3.

The Heart FX experience includes a truck which measures 100 feet long, 28 feet wide and 13 ½ feet high and expands to set the scene for a 5 1/2 minute multisensory, interactive simulation of the impact of heart failure on daily activities. Once inside the truck, participants enter the Pod and are outfitted with a compression vest and situated on foot pedals. Through a series of visual and audio effects, as the vest tightens and foot pedal resistance increase, doctors are able to experience the struggle patients with heart failure endure daily – shortness of breath, exercise limitation and fatigue.

“Experiencing heart failure from a patient perspective strengthens our awareness, and will help us in our development of treatment plans for patients,” said Dr. Aurelio Duran, electrophysiologist and cardiology chair, ORMC. “This type of firsthand learning also stresses the importance of treating the chronic condition that continues to impact lives.”

Heart failure occurs when the heart loses its ability to pump effectively and supply the necessary amounts of blood and oxygen throughout the body. It may occur as a result of heart muscle damage caused by a previous heart attack. Early symptoms may include fatigue, shortness of breath, fluid retention and exercise intolerance. Risk factors may include high blood pressure, heart disease, diabetes, cigarette smoking and being overweight.

A leading cause of hospitalization for older Americans, there are approximately 3.6 million heart failure hospitalizations per year. In the United States, nearly 5 million Americans are currently living with heart failure and more than half a million new cases are diagnosed each year.

New Breast Care Center to Deliver Cancer Diagnoses Sooner

2/28/2006 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, Fla. (February 28, 2006) – The days of women nervously waiting weeks for a breast cancer diagnosis could soon be in the past, thanks to the new Breast Care Center at Orlando Regional Medical Center, supported by MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando and the Surgical Group of Orlando, which opens to the public on March 1, 2006.

In most cases, women will receive diagnoses within 48 hours of walking through the doors of the dedicated Breast Care Center (BCC), located at 22 Underwood St. on the third floor the Ambulatory Care Center, next to MD Anderson – Orlando. The BCC will be the first facility in Central Florida to make a commitment to give women their diagnoses in days instead of weeks. The hope is to eliminate much of the fear associated with an abnormal mammogram or breast exam by giving women answers about their health quickly.

Fortunately, 80 percent of the women who receive abnormal results won’t be diagnosed with breast cancer, but the new BCC will simplify the process for those who will face the disease. Women will meet with a surgeon on their very first visit to the center and will have access to cancer diagnosis tests on the spot. Once they undergo any necessary procedures, the women will learn the results of their tests within two days. That’s a dramatic improvement to the weeks women nationwide typically wait to receive a diagnosis.

“Fear of the unknown can be almost as painful as bad news itself. Just ask any woman who has waited weeks to learn whether or not she has breast cancer,” said Dr. Clarence H. Brown, president and CEO of MD Anderson – Orlando. “The new Breast Care Center will be a headquarters for women to get diagnosis, surgery and treatment, as well as all of the information they need to battle the disease.”

The BCC will include five full-time surgeons who will follow breast cancer patients throughout their treatment. Specialized services will include: diagnostic mammography using low-dose X-rays, ultrasound images to diagnose cystic disease, stereotactic biopsy using computer-guided imaging, surgical biopsy and sentinel node biopsy to pinpoint the spread of cancer. To schedule a consultation, please call (321) 841-3080.

Health care clinicians trade places,become patients to better understand heart disease

2/23/2006 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, Fla. (February 23, 2006)

Doctors, nurses, respiratory therapists and other health care clinicians at Orlando Regional Medical Center will walk in the footsteps of patients with heart failure as they participate in the Heart FX Pod Program - an awareness program by AstraZeneca that includes a heart failure simulator.

The exhibit vehicle makes a stop at Orlando Regional Medical Center on March 2-3. The Heart FX experience includes a truck which measures 100 feet long, 28 feet wide and 13 ½ feet high and expands to set the scene for a 5 1/2 minute multisensory, interactive simulation of the impact of heart failure on daily activities. Once inside the truck, participants enter the Pod and are outfitted with a compression vest and situated on foot pedals. Through a series of visual and audio effects, as the vest tightens and foot pedal resistance increase, doctors are able to experience the struggle patients with heart failure endure daily – shortness of breath, exercise limitation and fatigue. “Experiencing heart failure from a patient perspective strengthens our awareness, and will help us in our development of treatment plans for patients,” said Dr. Aurelio Duran, electrophysiologist and cardiology chair, ORMC. “This type of firsthand learning also stresses the importance of treating the chronic condition that continues to impact lives.” Heart failure occurs when the heart loses its ability to pump effectively and supply the necessary amounts of blood and oxygen throughout the body. It may occur as a result of heart muscle damage caused by a previous heart attack. Early symptoms may include fatigue, shortness of breath, fluid retention and exercise intolerance. Risk factors may include high blood pressure, heart disease, diabetes, cigarette smoking and being overweight.

A leading cause of hospitalization for older Americans, there are approximately 3.6 million heart failure hospitalizations per year. In the United States, nearly 5 million Americans are currently living with heart failure and more than half a million new cases are diagnosed each year.

Orlando Regional Healthcare, a 1,652-bed private, not-for-profit organization was established in 1918. The hospital system serves more than 640,000 Central Florida residents and 4,500 international patients annually. As a community-owned organization, Orlando Regional reinvests its profits into many one-of-a-kind, specialized services like Central Florida’s only Level I Trauma Center and statutory teaching hospital. U.S.News & World Report ranked Orlando Regional Healthcare as one of the nation’s best hospitals, Fortune magazine recognized Orlando Regional as one of the Top 100 Companies to Work for in America and the Herman Group designated Orlando Regional Healthcare an Employer of Choice.

More information is available at www.orlandoregional.org.

Orlando Regional Healthcare Appoints Director of Advanced Practice

2/20/2006 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, Fla. (February 20, 2006)

Adding to the multidisciplinary background of the Orlando Regional Healthcare Nurse Executive Team, Daleen Aragon, Ph.D., R.N., C.C.R.N., F.C.C.M, was recently promoted to director of advanced practice and nursing research. In her new role, Dr. Aragon will oversee the nursing research program, including ensuring operations conform to governmental regulations and will develop and/or disseminate evidence-based practice initiatives.

Dr. Aragon began her 31-year career as a staff nurse in coronary care and emergency nursing and has progressed to a nationally recognized clinical care nurse, researcher and educator, active in many professional organizations. She has also published more than 30 articles in refereed journals and been an invited speaker to many regional and national conferences and meetings.

Dr. Aragon has focused on many areas of research including glycemic control, infection prevention, outcomes research in critical care, hypothermia in trauma patients, and the effect of the use of harp music in patients with vascular and thoracic surgery. Her extensive research and commitment to critical care medicine has been recognized with many awards and honors including, most recently, the Norma J. Shoemaker Award for Critical Care Nursing Excellence (2006) from the Society of Critical Care Medicine (SCCM). Professional memberships and associations include active involvement in the SCCM, American Association of Clinical Nurse Specialists, American Association of Critical-Care Nurses, and Sigma Theta Tau Nursing Honor Society. Dr. Aragon’s diverse educational background includes an associate degree in nursing from Florence-Darlington Technical Education College in Florence, S.C.; a bachelor’s and master’s degree in nursing from the University of South Carolina Columbia; and a doctorate of philosophy in nursing from the University of Florida.

Orlando Regional Healthcare, a 1,652-bed private, not-for-profit organization was established in 1918. The hospital system serves more than 640,000 Central Florida residents and 4,500 international patients annually. As a community-owned organization, Orlando Regional reinvests its profits into many one-of-a-kind, specialized services like Central Florida’s only Level I trauma center and statutory teaching hospital. U.S.News & World Report ranked Orlando Regional Healthcare as one of the nation’s best hospitals, Fortune magazine recognized Orlando Regional as one of the Top 100 Companies to Work for in America and the Herman Group designated Orlando Regional Healthcare an Employer of Choice.

More information is available at www.orlandoregional.org.

Society of Critical Care Medicine recognizes Orlando Regional Healthcare director

2/20/2006 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, Fla. (February 20, 2006)

In recognition of invaluable contributions to critical care nursing, Daleen Aragon, Ph.D., R.N., C.C.R.N., F.C.C.M, director of advanced practice and nursing research at Orlando Regional Healthcare, received the Norma J. Shoemaker Award for Critical Care Nursing Excellence from the Society of Critical Care Medicine (SCCM). The award recognizes an SCCM nurse member who demonstrates excellence in clinical practice, education and/or administration in the field of critical care.

Dr. Aragon received the award in January at the American College of Critical Care Medicine Convocation/SCCM Awards Presentation held in San Francisco. In addition, Dr. Aragon was elected to the American College of Critical Care Medicine Board of Regents as the sole nurse representative at the same congress meeting. The Norma J. Shoemaker Award for Critical Care Nursing Excellence was established in 1992 in recognition of Norma Shoemaker – a critical care nurse and SCCM executive director. Her career spanned the decades during which critical care evolved into a recognized specialty. Dr. Aragon began her 31-year career as a staff nurse in coronary care and emergency nursing and has progressed to a nationally recognized clinical care nurse, researcher and educator, active in many professional organizations. She has also published more than 30 articles in refereed journals, and been an invited speaker to several regional and national conferences, summits and symposiums.

Dr. Aragon received an associate degree in nursing from Florence-Darlington Technical Education College in Florence, S.C.; a bachelor’s and master’s degree in nursing from the University of South Carolina Columbia; and a doctorate of philosophy in nursing from the University of Florida. Orlando Regional Healthcare, a 1,652-bed private, not-for-profit organization was established in 1918. The hospital system serves more than 640,000 Central Florida residents and 4,500 international patients annually. As a community-owned organization, Orlando Regional reinvests its profits into many one-of-a-kind, specialized services like Central Florida’s only Level I trauma center and statutory teaching hospital. U.S.News & World Report ranked Orlando Regional Healthcare as one of the nation’s best hospitals, Fortune magazine recognized Orlando Regional as one of the Top 100 Companies to Work for in America and the Herman Group designated Orlando Regional Healthcare an Employer of Choice.

More information is available at www.orlandoregional.org.

ORMC Cardiac Unit Cooks Up Heart Healthy Recipes

2/16/2006 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, Fla. (February 16, 2006)

Food for heart is on the menu during a cooking demonstration to show cardiac patients and their families ways to lower their fat, cholesterol, and sodium intake with food selection and preparation, a focus of the cardiac inpatient education program at Orlando Regional Medical Center (ORMC). “As you educate patients and their families on the importance of nutritional lifestyle changes after a cardiac event, it is important to provide ways to implement the modifications,” said Mandy Layman, MS, RD, LD/N, clinical dietitian, ORMC Food and Nutrition Services. “Our cooking demonstrations show how easy, tasty and fun it can be to prepare family favorites in a healthier way.”

During the cooking demonstration, Kent Bacon, executive chef, ORMC Food and Nutrition Services, will prepare an Italian chicken and vegetable stir-fry. Patients will have an opportunity to ask questions and share ideas. “As patients learn more options and substitutions, they discover new ways to add variety to their meal planning which will strengthen their efforts to form better eating habits,” Layman adds. Heart disease, America’s leading cause of death has been linked to poor diet and nutrition, obesity and lack of exercise. According to the American Heart Association, an estimated 71,300,000 Americans have one or more forms of cardiovascular disease, and this year an estimated 1.2 million Americans will have a new or recurrent coronary attack. Throughout the cooking demonstration participants will also hear tips to help lower blood cholesterol levels and blood pressure by eating less saturated fat, trans fats, and sodium and consuming more dietary fiber.

Orlando Regional Healthcare, a 1,652-bed private, not-for-profit organization was established in 1918. The hospital system serves more than 640,000 Central Florida residents and 4,500 international patients annually. As a community-owned organization, Orlando Regional reinvests its profits into many one-of-a-kind, specialized services like Central Florida’s only Level I trauma center and statutory teaching hospital. U.S.News & World Report ranked Orlando Regional Healthcare as one of the nation’s best hospitals, Fortune magazine recognized Orlando Regional as one of the Top 100 Companies to Work for in America and the Herman Group designated Orlando Regional Healthcare an Employer of Choice.

More information is available at www.orlandoregional.org.

Dr. David Flory Promoted to Coordinator of Special Programs and Compliance

2/13/2006 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, Fla. (February 13, 2006) - MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando is proud to announce the promotion of Dr. David Flory, Ph.D. to coordinator of special programs and compliance. In his new role, Flory will oversee the Oncology Institutional Review Board which evaluates all potential clinical trials which come through the cancer center. Dr. Flory is a published author with previous experience both submitting to and serving on the Orlando Regional Healthcare Institutional Review Board, giving him a unique understanding of the process by which trials are implemented at MD Anderson – Orlando.

Dr. Flory received his bachelor’s degree in biology from Indiana University and his doctorate of philosophy in molecular and cellular pathobiology from Wake Forest University. Following completion of his doctorate, Dr. Flory was awarded a National Institutes of Health Fellowship to continue his training at Case Western Reserve University.

In addition to his role at the cancer center, Flory also holds a faculty appointment as an adjunct instructor in the Department of Molecular Biology and Microbiology at the University of Central Florida. Most recently, Flory served as senior scientist at the Orlando Regional Healthcare Health Research Institute.

Holly Stuart Named Director of Charles Lewis Institute

2/8/2006 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, Fla. (February 8, 2006) - MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando recently named Holly Stuart as the first director of the facility’s Charles Lewis Institute. The Charles Lewis Institute consists of the facility’s oncology education program, telemedicine center, community outreach program, customer relations, Mind/Body/Spirit and the Healing Arts programs. Stuart will manage all of the programs as well work directly with MD Anderson – Orlando’s chief development officer and Council of Governors on philanthropic initiatives.

Stuart will use her diverse skills in community and public relations, marketing and advertising to help manage complementary healing programs at the renowned cancer center. Her background includes several leadership positions at Walt Disney World Company as well as experience creating national public relations programs for Arnold Palmer Golf Management. Most recently, she was president of her own marketing strategy consulting firm, Stuart Communications, Inc.

Dr. Cheryl Baker Named Director of the Cancer Research Institute

2/8/2006 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, Fla. (February 8, 2006) -- As part of MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando’s increased commitment to clinical research, the facility has named Cheryl Baker, Ph.D., as director of the facility’s Cancer Research Institute. Dr. Baker will oversee basic and translational research which will provide a “benchtop to bedside and back” approach to cancer care.

Dr. Baker joins MD Anderson – Orlando from the University of Texas, MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando in Houston where she served as assistant professor in the department of cancer biology. This is a return of sorts for Dr. Baker who received her bachelor’s in chemistry at Rollins College before earning her doctorate in biochemistry at Texas Tech University. Dr. Baker completed her post doctorate studies in the department of cancer biology at the University of Texas, MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando.

In addition to her role at MD Anderson – Orlando, Dr. Baker will also lend her expertise to the University of Central Florida, acting as assistant professor of the college of biomedical sciences.

Orlando Regional`s Know The Shape Of Your Heart Wellness Series Promotes Good Heart Health

1/31/2006 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, Fla. (January 31, 2006) - To encourage heart health, Orlando Regional Healthcare celebrates its 2nd Annual Red February, a month-long heart disease awareness campaign. This year`s theme is Know The Shape Of Your Heart.

To learn more about the shape of your heart and ways to achieve a heart healthy lifestyle attend the Listen to Your Heart Wellness Series. The following classes will be held in the Orlando Regional Medical Center Multipurpose Room A from 7 to 8 p.m. Registration is free, but seating is limited and reservations must be made by calling HealthLine at 800 648-7899.

Tuesday, Feb. 7 - Shaping the Future - Children and Weight Issues presented by Linda Ammon, MS, RD, LDN, CDE. Learn ways to encourage your child to lead a healthy lifestyle, which may promote heart health as an adult.

Tuesday, Feb. 21 - Better Living Through Heart Healthy Eating presented by Nayda Labrador, RD, CDE. Learn ways to improve eating habits without sacrificing taste..

Tuesday, Feb. 28 - Hormone Replacement Therapy and Your Heart presented by Lisa Hutchinson, Pharm.D., CRPh. Learn about HRT and its effects on your heart.

Tuesday, March 7 - Love Your Heart - Preventing and Recovering from Heart Disease presented by Patty Harper, RN, BS, BSN. Learn way to promote heart healthy living. Then find out about managing the rehabilitation process that may follow heart disease.

Orlando Regional’s Know The Shape Of Your Heart Wellness Series

1/31/2006 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, Fla. (January 31, 2006)

To encourage heart health, Orlando Regional Healthcare celebrates its 2nd Annual Red February, a month-long heart disease awareness campaign. This year’s theme is Know The Shape Of Your Heart. To learn more about the shape of your heart and ways to achieve a heart healthy lifestyle attend the Listen to Your Heart Wellness Series.

The following classes will be held in the Orlando Regional Medical Center Multipurpose Room A from 7 to 8 p.m. Registration is free, but seating is limited and reservations must be made by calling HealthLine at 800 648-7899. ? Tuesday, Feb. 7 - Shaping the Future - Children and Weight Issues presented by Linda Ammon, MS, RD, LDN, CDE. Learn ways to encourage your child to lead a healthy lifestyle, which may promote heart health as an adult. ? Tuesday, Feb. 21 - Better Living Through Heart Healthy Eating presented by Nayda Labrador, RD, CDE. Learn ways to improve eating habits without sacrificing taste.. ? Tuesday, Feb. 28 – Hormone Replacement Therapy and Your Heart presented by Lisa Hutchinson, Pharm.D., CRPh. Learn about HRT and its effects on your heart.

Tuesday, March 7

Love Your Heart - Preventing and Recovering from Heart Disease presented by Patty Harper, RN, BS, BSN. Learn way to promote heart healthy living. Then find out about managing the rehabilitation process that may follow heart disease. Orlando Regional Healthcare, a 1,652-bed private, not-for-profit organization was established in 1918. The hospital system serves more than 640,000 Central Florida residents and 4,500 international patients annually. As a community-owned organization, Orlando Regional reinvests its profits into many one-of-a-kind, specialized services like Central Florida’s only Level I trauma center and statutory teaching hospital. U.S.News & World Report ranked Orlando Regional Healthcare as one of the nation’s best hospitals, Fortune magazine recognized Orlando Regional as one of the Top 100 Companies to Work for in America and the Herman Group designated Orlando Regional Healthcare an Employer of Choice. More information is available at www.orlandoregional.org.

MD Anderson - Orlando Debuts Fertility-Sparing Procedure for Cervical Cancer Patients

1/6/2006 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, Fla. (January 6, 2006) - A minimally invasive procedure now available at MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando is offering hope for cervical cancer patients who want to preserve their fertility and one day start a family. Dr. Alfred Jenkins, a gynecologic oncologist at MD Anderson - Orlando, is among a handful of doctors in the nation trained in radical trachelectomy, an alternative to radical hysterectomy. The procedure is for patients with small Stage 1 cervical cancer, where the cancer has not spread outside of the cervix. Besides preserving fertility, radical trachelectomy offers advantages such as shorter hospital stays –typically two or three days—and less pain and blood loss.

Done laparoscopically and with radical vaginal surgery techniques, the doctor removes only the cancerous cervical tissue and surrounding lymph nodes, which need to be examined for potential spread of the disease. The uterus and remainder of a woman’s reproductive organs are left intact. Because the cervix makes up the bottom of the uterus, it must be closed with a suture. The idea is that the stitch will keep the uterus closed and support a growing pregnancy until the baby can be born usually via Caesarean section.

Although they are of reproductive age, the majority of cervical cancer patients are treated with radical hysterectomy or radiation therapy, which leaves patients unable to conceive. About 30 percent of cervical cancer patients under the age of 40 would be likely candidates for the operation. Studies suggest the rate of recurrence is less than 5 percent.

To learn more about radical trachelectomy or to schedule a consultation, please call Mary Hudson at (321) 841-8490.

Sand Lake Hospital celebrates 20 years of caring and community growth.

1/6/2006 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, Fla. (January 6, 2006) - When Orlando Regional Sand Lake Hospital opened on December 10, 1985, its goal was to provide southwest Orlando residents quality medical care in a supportive, people-centered environment.

Nestled among 46 acres of wooded landscaping, Sand Lake Hospital opened as a six-story, 153-bed hospital with a 17-bed emergency department, specialty care programs and a health care team of 70 employees and 150 physicians.

“. . . Sand Lake Hospital was designed with the patient in mind,” said John Hillenmeyer, president/CEO, about the hospital’s opening in 1985. At the time, he was senior vice president responsible for the hospital project. “We sought advice from many patients, doctors and nurses before we allowed the architect to draw a line.”

Since that time, doctors and team members, have treated more than 107,000 inpatients and over 916,000 emergency department patients. Today more than 900 employees and 200 physicians work together to manage over 8,000 admissions and nearly 70,000 emergency department visits each year.

Sand Lake Hospital has expanded over the years to include a renovated 44-bed emergency department, a stroke center, contemporary surgical suites, an increased number of highly specialized patient care units, a state-of-the-art cardiac catheterization lab, advanced diagnostic imaging and cardiac diagnostic technology. The most recent addition to the hospital is the Cynthia C. and William E. Perry Pavilion – a warm and inviting two-story hospitality addition serving as a home away from home for families of out-of-town guests.

“As we move forward to face the challenges of the next 20 years, we will, of course, continue to grow the facility and enhance our technology but we will work diligently to maintain the family atmosphere and caring environment which has been built here since 1985," said Shannon Elswick, president. "The members of our Sand Lake family work very hard to make a difference for those who come to us in need. We understand how important the hospital is to our community and we will work hard to make sure Orlando Regional Sand Lake Hospital is always here to take care of folks when it matters most."

MD Anderson - Orlando Opens New Thoracic Care Center

1/4/2006 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, Fla. (January 4, 2006) – The wait is over for the estimated 13,000 lung cancer patients in Florida seeking specialized care and quick diagnosis and treatment, thanks to the opening of MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando’s new Thoracic Care Center, located on the second floor of the Charles Lewis Pavilion at 1400 Orange Ave.

The Thoracic Care Center is a one-stop-shop for lung cancer patients to speak with the necessary board-certified surgeons, pulmonologists, nurses, radiologists, pathologists, counselors and oncologists. The center also offers patients more state-of-the-art lung cancer diagnosis and treatment technologies than any other facility in Central Florida including external beam radiation therapy, TomoTherapy Hi•Art System®, Novalis Shaped Beam Surgery and superDimension/Bronchus minimally-invasive diagnosis.

“Cancer patients deserve our immediate attention,” said Dr. Clarence Brown, president and CEO of MD Anderson – Orlando. “This dedicated Thoracic Care Center will streamline the process for patients to see one of our specialists - giving them the information and answers they need within days.”

On a patient’s first call to the dedicated Thoracic Care Center, he or she will speak with a nurse practitioner who will help complete the necessary paperwork, obtain previous test results and films, coordinate insurance needs and schedule the patient’s initial appointment with one of MD Anderson – Orlando’s specialists that week. In just one visit, the patient will be evaluated by all necessary physicians and staff and given the best possible treatment plan to suit his or her individual needs.

“There’s comfort in knowledge,” continued Dr. Brown. “We hope our new Thoracic Care Center will be a great resource for people searching for fast answers about their health and cancer treatment options.”

Specialists at MD Anderson – Orlando’s new Thoracic Care Center will begin seeing patients on Jan. 2, 2006. For more information, or to schedule a consultation, please call (321) 843-1460.

Sand Lake Hospital celebrates 20 years of caring and community growth

1/3/2006 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, Fla. (January 3, 2006) --- When Orlando Regional Sand Lake Hospital opened on December 10, 1985, its goal was to provide southwest Orlando residents quality medical care in a supportive, people-centered environment. Nestled among 46 acres of wooded landscaping, Sand Lake Hospital opened as a six-story, 153-bed hospital with a 17-bed emergency department, specialty care programs and a health care team of 70 employees and 150 physicians. “. . . Sand Lake Hospital was designed with the patient in mind,” said John Hillenmeyer, president/CEO, about the hospital’s opening in 1985. At the time, he was senior vice president responsible for the hospital project. “We sought advice from many patients, doctors and nurses before we allowed the architect to draw a line.” Since that time, doctors and team members, have treated more than 107,000 inpatients and over 916,000 emergency department patients. Today more than 900 employees and 200 physicians work together to manage over 8,000 admissions and nearly 70,000 emergency department visits each year. Sand Lake Hospital has expanded over the years to include a renovated 44-bed emergency department, a stroke center, contemporary surgical suites, an increased number of highly specialized patient care units, a state-of-the-art cardiac catheterization lab, advanced diagnostic imaging and cardiac diagnostic technology. The most recent addition to the hospital is the Cynthia C. and William E. Perry Pavilion – a warm and inviting two-story hospitality addition serving as a home away from home for families of out-of-town guests. “As we move forward to face the challenges of the next 20 years, we will, of course, continue to grow the facility and enhance our technology but we will work diligently to maintain the family atmosphere and caring environment which has been built here since 1985," said Shannon Elswick, president. "The members of our Sand Lake family work very hard to make a difference for those who come to us in need. We understand how important the hospital is to our community and we will work hard to make sure Orlando Regional Sand Lake Hospital is always here to take care of folks when it matters most." Sand Lake Hospital is part of Orlando Regional Healthcare, a 1,652-bed private, not-for-profit organization was established in 1918. The hospital system serves more than 640,000 Central Florida residents and 4,500 international patients annually. As a community-owned organization, Orlando Regional reinvests its profits into many one-of-a-kind, specialized services like Central Florida’s only Level I trauma center and statutory teaching hospital. U.S.News & World Report ranked Orlando Regional Healthcare as one of the nation’s best hospitals, Fortune magazine recognized Orlando Regional as one of the Top 100 Companies to Work for in America and the Herman Group designated Orlando Regional Healthcare an Employer of Choice. More information is available at www.orlandoregional.org.

Orlando Regional’s residency program receives four-year accreditation

12/30/2005 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, Fla. (December 30, 2005) --- Orlando Regional Healthcare’s Graduate Medical Education Program recently received a four-year accreditation as a teaching hospital organization from the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education, the national organization that certifies teaching hospitals. The accreditation enables the hospital to continue its commitment to medical education. “We have invested heavily in our medical education programs because they are key to our mission and core values,” said Dr. Jay Falk, chief academic medical officer. “Many graduates of our programs remain in Central Florida and become key members of our physician community.” Orlando Regional has 180 doctors serving as faculty to the program of more than 170 residents. Orlando Regional has eight residencies: emergency medicine, internal medicine, medicine/pediatrics, OB/GYN, orthopedics, pathology, pediatrics and general surgery; and three fellowship programs: colon rectal surgery, pediatric orthopedics and critical care surgery. Additional fellowship programs in critical care medicine, hematology/oncology and other disciplines are in the development stages. Currently, 189 active members of the hospital’s medical staff graduated from Orlando Regional’s residency program. “The presence of our training programs, our faculty physicians and trainees, and the support of these programs by our private medical staff enriches the culture of our organization and enhances the quality of care our patients receive,” said Sherrie Sitarik, president, Orlando Regional Medical Center/Orlando Regional Lucerne Hospital. “By training and retaining physicians in our community, we improve medical care for our citizens now and for the future.” Orlando Regional Healthcare, a 1,652-bed private, not-for-profit organization was established in 1918. The hospital system serves more than 640,000 Central Florida residents and 4,500 international patients annually. As a community-owned organization, Orlando Regional reinvests its profits into many one-of-a-kind, specialized services like Central Florida’s only Level I trauma center and statutory teaching hospital. U.S.News & World Report ranked Orlando Regional Healthcare as one of the nation’s best hospitals, Fortune magazine recognized Orlando Regional as one of the Top 100 Companies to Work for in America and the Herman Group designated Orlando Regional Healthcare an Employer of Choice. More information is available at www.orlandoregional.org.

ORMC medical ICU director serves as treasurer of international critical care organization

12/30/2005 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, Fla. (December 30, 2005)

Orlando Regional Medical Center is pleased to announce Dr. Edgar Jimenez, director, Medical ICU, ORMC, was recently elected to an 8-year term as treasurer for the World Federation of Societies for Intensive and Critical Care Medicine (WFSICCM). Dr. Jimenez represented the United States Society of Critical Care Medicine (SCCM) during the 9th Congress of the WFSICCM in Buenos Aires, Argentina this past summer.

Dr. Jimenez joined Orlando Regional in 2004. His 20-year career includes various positions in organizations throughout the United States and abroad: director, ICU, Corpus Christi Medical Center, Corpus Christi, Texas; chief medical director, U.S. Embassy, Costa Rica; and medical director, National Red Cross, Costa Rica. In addition to his membership with SCCM, Dr. Jimenez is past-chair of its Fundamental Critical Care Support Steering Committee and member of its Education and Training Steering Committee. Dr. Jimenez co-developed the Fundamental Disaster Management course with SCCM that focuses on the communication, decontamination procedures and dynamic case management during a mass casualty crisis. Dr. Jimenez received a doctorate of medicine and surgery from the University of Costa Rica School of Medicine. He completed an Internal Medicine and Pediatrics residency at Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons, and a Critical Care fellowship at St. John’s Mercy Medical Center and St. Louis University Hospital.

Orlando Regional Healthcare, a 1,652-bed private, not-for-profit organization was established in 1918. The hospital system serves more than 640,000 Central Florida residents and 4,500 international patients annually. As a community-owned organization, Orlando Regional reinvests its profits into many one-of-a-kind, specialized services like Central Florida’s only Level I trauma center and statutory teaching hospital. U.S.News & World Report ranked Orlando Regional Healthcare as one of the nation’s best hospitals, Fortune magazine recognized Orlando Regional as one of the Top 100 Companies to Work for in America and the Herman Group designated Orlando Regional Healthcare an Employer of Choice.

More information is available at www.orlandoregional.org.

‘Best Doctors’ make rounds at Orlando Regional Healthcare

12/20/2005 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, Fla. (December 20, 2005) --- Doctors from Orlando Regional Healthcare were recently recognized in Orlando Magazine’s doctors issue. The December issue highlights physicians from The Best Doctors in America® database.

“We are pleased with the recognition of our doctors’ clinical excellence,” said John Hillenmeyer, president/CEO, Orlando Regional Healthcare. “These doctors represent the diverse disciplines of our medical staff and health care clinicians providing care to patients and their families each day as we fulfill our mission to serve the community.”

Of the nearly 100 doctors listed, the following doctors were photographed and highlighted in the magazine article:

Orlando Regional
Orthopedic Surgery:

• Dr. Andrew Burgess, orthopedic surgeon and academic chairman, director of trauma, Graduate Medical Education, Orthopaedics Neurology:

Neurology:

• Dr. Ira Goodman, neurologist and medical director, Orlando Regional Memory Disorder Clinic

Surgery:

           • Dr. Mark Friedell, vascular surgeon and academic chairman, Graduate Medical Education, General Surgery

Thoracic Surgery:

            • Dr. Mark Sand, cardiac surgeon and cardiac surgery chair

MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando
Medical Oncology and Hematology:

              • Dr. Clarence H. Brown III, president and CEO

• Dr. Jennifer E. Tseng, Medical Oncology Section leader, Thoracic/Head & Neck Specialty Section and Thoracic Care Center; and associate director of clinical research for medical oncology

Radiation Oncology:

                 • Dr. Daniel Buchholz, director of radiation oncology and radiation oncology section leader, Gastrointestinal and Breast Cancer Specialty Sections

• Dr. D. Wayne Jenkins, medical director

Thoracic Surgery:

                          • Dr. Alan D. Johnston, thoracic surgeon; Surgical Oncology Section leader, Thoracic/Head & Neck Specialty Section and Thoracic Care Center

Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children
Obstetrics and Gynecology:

• Dr. Gregor Alexander, neonatologist and chief of pediatrics

• Dr. David Auerbach, neonatologist and director, Neonatal Intensive Care Unit

• Dr. Steve Carlan, perinatologist and academic chairman, Graduate Medical Education, Obstetrics & Gynecology

• Dr. Arnold Lazar, obstetrician/gynecologist

• Dr. Mark Wilstrup, obstetrician/gynecologist

Pediatric Specialist:

• Dr. Charles Price, orthopedic surgeon

• Dr. Jorge Ramirez, nephrologist

• Dr. Mark Swanson, pediatrician and chief medical officer

The Best Doctors in America® database, compiled by Best Doctors Inc. in Boston, contains the names of nearly 33,000 doctors in the United States chosen through a peer-review survey that in part asks: “If you or a loved on needed a doctor in your specialty, to whom would you refer them?” and an evaluation by Best Doctors Inc.

Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children Unveils Magical Garden

12/20/2005 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, FL (December 20, 2005) -- With the magical words of bibbity boppity boo, Disney characters and ambassadors unveiled the new medieval-inspired magical garden atrium at Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children a few days before Christmas.

The project is a gift from Imagineers and Cast Members of the Walt Disney Company, who donated more than 3,500 hours of time and talent to transform the atrium into a storybook wonderland, telling the tale of a medieval-inspired fantasy garden. More than a dozen beautifully detailed sculptures welcome and enchant young patients including Tinkerbell, the Seven Dwarfs, Mickey Mouse, Pluto, Dumbo and Donald Duck. Many of the characters symbolize special characteristics such as friendship signified by Mickey and Pluto, Peter Pan symbolizes courage and triumph while Dumbo represents all of the babies born at Arnold Palmer Hospital.

“This has been a very exciting time for us as we’ve watched so many talented folks from the Walt Disney Company pour their hearts and souls into this project,” said John Bozard, president of Arnold Palmer Hospital. “They did an amazing job and the atrium will help ease the concerns and fears of every child who walks through our doors. From the time they arrive to the time they leave us they will know they are in a special place created just for them.”

The magical garden is the first major atrium renovation at Arnold Palmer Hospital since it opened its doors sixteen years ago.

###

Team members donate food items to benefit Second Harvest Food Bank of Central Florida

12/7/2005 12:00:00 AM

WHAT: Orlando Regional Healthcare will host a corporate-wide food drive to benefit Second Harvest Food Bank of Central Florida.
WHEN: Wednesday, December 7, 2005, 6:00 a.m. to 3 p.m.
WHERE: Orlando Regional Medical Center, Multipurpose Room A 1414 Kuhl Avenue
WHY: This holiday season, Orlando Regional Healthcare and its team members are opening their hearts to the pantry at Second Harvest Food Bank of Central Florida in support of its mission to reach out to those in need to fight hunger in Central Florida.

“Our team members are seeking ways to offer more help to those in need throughout the year, but especially during the holidays,” said Stephanie Howell, community relations director, Orlando Regional. “The food drive is one of many answers for team members asking, ‘How can I make a difference this holiday season?’” Second Harvest Food Bank of Central Florida is a private, non-profit organization that collects, stores and distributes donated food to more than 450 non-profit partner agencies in six Central Florida counties: Brevard, Lake, Orange, Osceola, Seminole and Volusia. “We are so thankful to the many individuals at Orlando Regional Healthcare who are making a difference this holiday season through this drive,” said Toni White, marketing and special events manager, Second Harvest. “We truly are a community organization and require the support of so many to provide for our neighbors in need.” Video/Photos: Team members collecting, sorting and packaging items Interviews: Stephanie Howell, community relations director, Orlando Regional Orlando Regional Healthcare, a 1,652-bed private, not-for-profit organization was established in 1918. The hospital system serves more than 640,000 Central Florida residents and 4,500 international patients annually. As a community-owned organization, Orlando Regional reinvests its profits into many one-of-a-kind, specialized services like Central Florida’s only Level I trauma center and statutory teaching hospital. U.S.News & World Report ranked Orlando Regional Healthcare as one of the nation’s best hospitals, Fortune magazine recognized Orlando Regional as one of the Top 100 Companies to Work for in America and the Herman Group designated Orlando Regional Healthcare an Employer of Choice.

More information is available at www.orlandoregional.org.

MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando Hosts Free Lung Cancer Event

11/9/2005 12:00:00 AM

WHAT: In effort to better educate Central Floridians about lung cancer prevention and treatment, MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando will host a free public education event during National Lung Cancer Awareness Month in November.
Complimentary parking, lunch and light refreshments will be provided.

WHEN: Wednesday, Nov. 16, 2005
Noon to 5 p.m.

WHERE: MD Anderson – Orlando,
1400 S. Orange Ave.
Orlando, FL,
Fourth floor, classrooms 3 and 4

PARKING: Complimentary parking in C-Deck garage across from the cancer center.

AGENDA: Noon – 1 p.m.

“Taking a Bite Out of Cancer” – Healthy cooking for cancer prevention and survival.

1 – 2 p.m.

“Wartime Technology and Lung Cancer” – Using digital imaging to detect and fight lung cancer.

2 – 3 p.m.

“Following the Trail of Smoke” – Lesser known health complications for women who smoke.

3 – 4 p.m.

“Too Afraid to Quit?” – Proven tips to stop smoking.
“Relationships and Cancer” – How can family and friends help lung cancer patients through tough times.

4 – 5 p.m.

“Looking for Inner Peace” – Energy medicine and yoga can build inner strength.

RSVP - Space is limited. Please call 407-648-7899 to reserve your seat in one or all of the seminars.

Orlando Regional Healthcare Announces Expansion Plans for Arnold Palmer Hospital

11/7/2005 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, FL (November 7, 2005) – The legacy of quality care for children of all ages began 16 years ago when Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children & Women opened its doors. Today hospital administrators along with professional golfer Arnold Palmer announced plans to expand Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children to continue serving the growing health care needs of children and unveiled the hospital’s new logo.

With the upcoming opening of the new Winnie Palmer Hospital for Women & Babies, Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children will become a freestanding, full-service children’s hospital focused solely on specialty and subspecialty health care for children.

“We are keenly aware of our community’s health care needs and are excited about our expansion plans to meet them,” said John Bozard, president, Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children. “When the new Winnie Palmer Hospital for Women and Babies opens next spring existing space at Arnold Palmer Hospital will be freed for extensive expansion of our pediatric services. Together, Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children and Winnie Palmer Hospital for Women and Babies will form the Arnold Palmer Medical Center, which will be the largest facility dedicated to children and women in the United States.”

The expanded Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children will have 158-beds, a 64 percent increase in licensed patient beds from the current 96-beds. Expansion plans also include the new 33-bed Bert Martin Champions for Children Pediatric Emergency Department & Trauma Center with a helistop connector providing a direct route to the emergency department and operating rooms as well as a 64-slice CT scanner. Additional renovations include a brand new, state-of-the-art 17-bed critical care unit; four new operating rooms (ORs) – including a dedicated trauma OR; eight additional pediatric oncology beds; 21 more acute pediatric beds; 36 additional critical care and progressive care beds for a net of 65 new licensed pediatric beds. The total bed count will be 158 licensed pediatric beds plus 46 observation beds for a total of 204 beds.

“Our expansion isn’t about beds, rather it is about the children who need highly specialized health care services,” explains Bozard. “We treat each child as if they were our own.”

Orlando Regional Medical Center broadens its spectrum of stroke care

10/10/2005 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, Fla. (October 10, 2005)

When a stroke occurs, timely treatment is critical. In October, the Orlando Regional Stroke Center at Orlando Regional Medical Center (ORMC) began to treat patients with stroke symptoms and deliver care to stroke patients to the level required by the Florida Stroke Act. To help prevent deaths and disabilities, the Stroke Act in part provides for EMS transport systems to identify and transport stroke patients to stroke centers for efficient and effective treatment. “As the No. 3 cause of death and the leading cause of disability, stroke continues to impact the lives of patients, their families and loved ones,” said Dr. Evan Allen, medical director of the Orlando Regional Stroke Center. “Advances in imaging systems and specialized staff training allow ORMC to provide a higher level of timely, acute stroke care, making the hospital an even greater asset to the growing downtown community.” Dr. Allen also served on the committee that helped draft the Stroke Act. Required protocols currently in place with other services at ORMC include: a rapid response team made up of specially-trained registered nurses and respiratory therapists, both neurology and cerebral angiography coverage 24 hours a day, seven days a week, and 24-hour diagnostic imaging. The Orlando Regional Stroke Center at Sand Lake Hospital opened in August.

Orlando Regional Healthcare, a 1,652-bed private, not-for-profit organization was established in 1918. The hospital system serves more than 640,000 Central Florida residents and 4,500 international patients annually. Physicians are independent contractors and are not employees of Orlando Regional Healthcare or its subsidiaries. As a community-owned organization, Orlando Regional reinvests its profits into many one-of-a-kind, specialized services like Central Florida’s only Level I Trauma Center and statutory teaching hospital. U.S.News & World Report ranked Orlando Regional Healthcare as one of the nation’s best hospitals, Fortune magazine recognized Orlando Regional as one of the Top 100 Companies to Work for in America and the Herman Group designated Orlando Regional Healthcare an Employer of Choice.

More information is available at www.orlandoregional.org.

Orlando Regional Sand Lake hosts women’s health series

10/10/2005 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, Fla. (October 10, 2005) --- Orlando Regional Sand Lake Hospital, presents What Matters to Women, a series of programs focusing on women’s health. The following classes will be held at Sand Lake Hospital, 9400 Turkey Lake Road, Classrooms 1 & 2. Door prize drawings and light refreshments will be available at each event. Registration is free. Seating is limited and reservations must be made by calling (407) 648-7899. Friday, October 21, noon to 1 p.m. Foot & Ankle Care: Presented by Robert Duggan, DPM • Learn the basics of foot care and enjoy a footbath. Tuesday, October 25, noon to 1 p.m. Nourishing the Soul: Presented by Chaplain Debbie Lewis, Sand Lake Hospital Spiritual Care. • Learn ways to tap your energy and nourish your soul in our hectic world. Indulge in chocolate and a 10-minute chair massage. Thursday, October 27, 6 to 7 p.m. Breast Cancer Awareness: Presented by Nikita Shah, MD, breast cancer specialty section leader, MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando • Learn about risk factors, diagnosis and treatment. Friday, October 28, noon to 1 p.m. Women & Cardiovascular Disease: Presented by Linda Jaffe, MD • Learn the risk factors and lifestyle modifications that can decrease your risk. Orlando Regional Healthcare, a 1,652-bed private, not-for-profit organization was established in 1918. The hospital system serves more than 640,000 Central Florida residents and 4,500 international patients annually. Physicians are independent contractors and are not employees of Orlando Regional Healthcare or its subsidiaries. As a community-owned organization, Orlando Regional reinvests its profits into many one-of-a-kind, specialized services like Central Florida’s only Level I Trauma Center and statutory teaching hospital. U.S.News & World Report ranked Orlando Regional Healthcare as one of the nation’s best hospitals, Fortune magazine recognized Orlando Regional as one of the Top 100 Companies to Work for in America and the Herman Group designated Orlando Regional Healthcare an Employer of Choice. More information is available at www.orlandoregional.org.

MD Anderson - Orlando Debuts New Technology to Diagnose and Treat Lung Cancer

10/5/2005 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, Fla. (October 5, 2005) – MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando is the first in Florida to use the new superDimension system, a marriage of wartime technology and advances in digital imaging, to potentially save the lives of lung cancer patients. Physicians at MD Anderson – Orlando expect the minimally-invasive superDimension system to increase their ability to precisely diagnose even the smallest abnormalities in the lung, and in turn, identify lung cancer sooner in patients. That’s encouraging news to the estimated 13,100 Floridians who are diagnosed with lung cancer each year, according to the American Cancer Society.

The system allows doctors to see a traditional CT-Scan in three-dimension so abnormalities can be studied and marked for sampling. Then the patient undergoes a bronchoscopy, a procedure in which a tube is inserted into the lungs for diagnostic reasons. What makes the superDimension system unique is that it allows doctors to overlay an image of the CT-Scan on the patient during the bronchoscopy so they can pass an electromagnetic probe through the bronchoscope using the CT-Scan as a map.

Unlike traditional procedures, physicians can actually see the probe traveling through the body in real time using the superDimension system. In addition to helping guide the procedure, the system will also extend the reach of a traditional bronchoscope so doctors can biopsy smaller lesions in the lungs for a more accurate diagnosis. Doctors can also use the system to insert gold markers in cancerous areas of the lung non-surgically to better target radiation treatment.

“Lung cancer is typically one of the more aggressive cancers. We’re confident this new technology will help us diagnose the cancer in patients faster, perhaps giving us the upper-hand in the battle ahead,” said Dr. Alan R. Forbes, radiation oncologist at MD Anderson – Orlando. “The sooner we can catch lung cancer, the better it will be for our patients.”

MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando debuted the new superDimension system in early September and its doctors are excited to team the image guided diagnosis equipment with the facility’s targeted radiation technology to more aggressively treat lung cancer, which is the number one cause of cancer death in both men and women.

MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando, part of Orlando Regional Healthcare, is affiliated with The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando in Houston. U.S. News & World Report ranked MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando one of the top two cancer facilities in the nation for 2005 and has done so for the past 16 years. Orlando Regional, a 1,652-bed community-owned, Florida not-for-profit organization established in 1918, annually serves more than 640,000 Central Florida residents and 4,500 international patients. More information is available at www.mdandersonorlando.org.

Women Playing for T.I.M.E.™ Reaches More than $5 Million in Donations

10/5/2005 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, Fla. (October 5, 2005) – Women Playing for T.I.M.E. (Technology, Immediate Diagnosis, Mammography and Education) prove little can stand in the way of a woman’s determination, especially when it comes to helping a friend battle cancer. The group, which has been hosting exclusive tennis and golf tournaments to benefit MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando for more than a decade, is poised to raise close to $5.5 million in donations. It’s a momentous milestone for the all-female team who never imagined they could generate so much interest in their benefit golf and tennis tournaments to raise funds for breast cancer.

“Too many of our friends and loved ones were losing their lives to cancer,” says Elaine Lustig, co-founder of Women Playing for T.I.M.E. “We wanted to do more than offer a shoulder to cry on or a comforting ear. We were determined to make a difference on a larger level.”

Women Playing for T.I.M.E. was formed in 1993 and has made a tremendous contribution to MD Anderson – Orlando ever since by helping fund the purchase of a Helical Tomotherapy radiation machine, establishing of a state of the art breast cancer screening, diagnostic and treatment center, and spearheading numerous educational outreach programs. The group has also helped fund research for prevention, treatment and a cure for breast cancer, all while raising hope for women afflicted by the disease. The ladies continue to generate support for the cancer center raising an average of $450,000 per year through their popular golf and tennis tournaments.

“We’re so proud of the money we’ve raised over the years because it all stays in our community, helping our friends and family,” continues Lustig. “But, I think we’re most humbled by the awareness we’ve generated for cancer diagnosis and treatment. We don’t want any Central Florida women to fear cancer. We want to educate them and prepare them for the battle ahead.”

Women Playing for T.I.M.E. is set for another successful golf tournament on Monday, Oct. 17 and Tuesday, Oct. 18, 2005 at Lake Nona Club, 9100 Chiltern Dr., Orlando. More than 120 women from across the country participate in the tournament each year. Tickets for the event routinely sell out months in advance and this year’s tournament is already completely booked.

MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando, part of Orlando Regional Healthcare, is affiliated with The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando in Houston. U.S. News & World Report ranked MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando one of the top two cancer facilities in the nation for 2005 and has done so for the past 16 years. Orlando Regional, a 1,652-bed community-owned, Florida not-for-profit organization established in 1918, annually serves more than 640,000 Central Florida residents and 4,500 international patients. More information is available at www.mdandersonorlando.org.

Orlando Regional team members pick up the pace in the fight against heart disease, stroke

9/23/2005 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, Fla. (September 23, 2005) --- Step by step, Orlando Regional Healthcare team members are fighting heart disease and stroke. As a Gold Sponsor in the 2005 Greater Orlando Heart Walk, the hospital joins the local American Heart Association and other community organizations in the annual walk at 8 a.m., on Saturday, Sept. 24, at Loch Haven Park in Orlando.

“Coronary heart disease is our nation’s leading cause of death, and stroke is not far behind, as the third leading cause of death,” said Anna Soike, community relations representative and Heart Walk coordinator for Orlando Regional. “Together, with our community, we can participate in heart healthy initiatives to help educate about prevention, warning signs and symptoms.”

More than 25 heartfelt named teams like the “Healing Hearts,” the “Beat Keepers,” “Rhythm Runners” and the “Heart & Soles” represent more than 200 walkers from Orlando Regional’s downtown and community hospitals. To date, the hospital has raised more than $12,000.

In addition to walking for a heart healthy community, Orlando Regional Wellness Center team members will lead warm-up sessions for all walkers. The hospital will also host an information booth.

For more information about the Heart Walk, contact the local American Heart Association at (407) 843-1330.

Orlando Regional team members pick up the pace in the fight against heart disease, stroke

9/23/2005 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, Fla. (September 23, 2005)

Step by step, Orlando Regional Healthcare team members are fighting heart disease and stroke. As a Gold Sponsor in the 2005 Greater Orlando Heart Walk, the hospital joins the local American Heart Association and other community organizations in the annual walk at 8 a.m., on Saturday, Sept. 24, at Loch Haven Park in Orlando. “Coronary heart disease is our nation’s leading cause of death, and stroke is not far behind, as the third leading cause of death,” said Anna Soike, community relations representative and Heart Walk coordinator for Orlando Regional. “Together, with our community, we can participate in heart healthy initiatives to help educate about prevention, warning signs and symptoms.” More than 25 heartfelt named teams like the “Healing Hearts,” the “Beat Keepers,” “Rhythm Runners” and the “Heart & Soles” represent more than 200 walkers from Orlando Regional’s downtown and community hospitals. To date, the hospital has raised more than $12,000. In addition to walking for a heart healthy community, Orlando Regional Wellness Center team members will lead warm-up sessions for all walkers. The hospital will also host an information booth.

For more information about the Heart Walk, contact the local American Heart Association at (407) 843-1330.

Regional Healthcare, a 1,652-bed private, not-for-profit organization was established in 1918. The hospital system serves more than 640,000 Central Florida residents and 4,500 international patients annually. Physicians are independent contractors and are not employees of Orlando Regional Healthcare or its subsidiaries. As a community-owned organization, Orlando Regional reinvests its profits into many one-of-a-kind, specialized services like Central Florida’s only Level I trauma center and statutory teaching hospital. U.S.News & World Report ranked Orlando Regional Healthcare as one of the nation’s best hospitals, Fortune magazine recognized Orlando Regional as one of the Top 100 Companies to Work for in America and the Herman Group designated Orlando Regional Healthcare an Employer of Choice.

More information is available at www.orlandoregional.org.

Team members collect items to send to Hurricane Katrina survivors, prepare to help those evacuated

9/9/2005 12:00:00 AM

WHAT: Orlando Regional Healthcare will host a corporate-wide personal hygiene drive to benefit Hurricane Katrina survivors in Central Florida.

WHEN: Friday, September 9, 2005, 6:30 a.m. to 3 p.m.

WHERE: Orlando Regional Medical Center 1414 Kuhl Avenue

WHY: The community a hospital serves isn’t limited to its surrounding neighborhoods.

Orlando Regional Healthcare and its team members are opening their hearts and lending a hand to reach out to Hurricane Katrina survivors throughout Louisiana and along the Gulf Coast and those evacuated to Central Florida. “Even before Katrina made land fall, many of us found ourselves once again glued to our televisions fixated on the possible tracks of the storm,” said Dana Loncar, director, Community/Government Relations. “Now we find our hearts asking, ‘How can I help?,’ during the aftermath of this natural disaster that has devastated countless lives.” Orlando Regional is also offering other ways for team members to help: • The Orlando Regional Healthcare Foundation is currently accepting donations from team members. One hundred percent of the Disaster Relief Fund donations will be forwarded to the disaster-stricken areas to assist in the relief efforts.

Orlando Regional is working with the United Way of Central Florida to provide medical assessments and immunizations to Hurricane Katrina Survivors evacuated to Central Florida. • Orlando Regional is working with other local agencies like the American Red Cross of Central Florida, to connect team members who may want to volunteer in their local offices. Video/Photos: Team members collecting, sorting and packaging items

Team members collect items to send to Hurricane Katrina survivors

9/9/2005 12:00:00 AM

WHAT:Orlando Regional Healthcare will host a corporate-wide personal hygiene drive to benefit Hurricane Katrina survivors in Central Florida. Orlando Regional will work with Second Harvest Food Bank of Central Florida as a distribution agency for supplies.

WHEN: Friday, September 9, 2005, 6:30 a.m. to 3 p.m.

WHERE: Orlando Regional Medical Center 1414 Kuhl Avenue

WHY: The community a hospital serves isn’t limited to its surrounding neighborhoods. Orlando Regional Healthcare and its team members are opening their hearts and lending a hand to reach out to Hurricane Katrina survivors throughout Louisiana and along the Gulf Coast and those evacuated to Central Florida.

“Even before Katrina made land fall, many of us found ourselves once again glued to our televisions fixated on the possible tracks of the storm,” said Dana Loncar, director, Community/Government Relations. “Now we find our hearts asking, ‘How can I help?,’ during the aftermath of this natural disaster that has devastated countless lives.”

Orlando Regional is also offering other ways for team members to help:

The Orlando Regional Healthcare Foundation is currently accepting donations from team members. One hundred percent of the Disaster Relief Fund donations will be forwarded to the disaster-stricken areas to assist in the relief efforts.

Orlando Regional is working with the United Way of Central Florida to provide medical assessments and immunizations to Hurricane Katrina Survivors evacuated to Central Florida.

Orlando Regional is working with other local agencies like the American Red Cross of Central Florida, to connect team members who may want to volunteer in their local offices.

Orlando Regional consolidates rehabilitation services

8/31/2005 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, FL (August 31, 2005)

Falls. Contact and aquatic sports injuries. Motor Vehicle Crashes. Traumatic injuries happen anytime, anywhere. Comprehensive rehabilitation happens in a central location at Orlando Regional Rehabilitation Institute (ORRI) at Orlando Regional Lucerne Hospital. “As the only Level One trauma center in Central Florida, Orlando Regional Medical Center, has more than 73,000 emergency visits a year, and many patients require rehabilitation once critical injures are managed.” said Dr. David Portée, medical director, Orlando Regional Rehabilitation Services. “It is not uncommon for a patient admitted to our trauma center or emergency department, after a motor vehicle crash, to have a multiple diagnosis – brain and orthopedic injuries or other complications.” The Rehabilitation Institute is here to meet the complex needs of patients like these and others at many levels of care with a broad spectrum of rehabilitation services. Services can be provided at the acute hospital, sub-acute and acute inpatient rehabilitation units and at outpatient rehabilitation centers.

With the recent addition of Orlando’s only designated brain program facility, the Brain Injury Rehabilitation Center, the 55-bed inpatient rehabilitation program offers care and services for patients with orthopedic injuries, neurological conditions including brain and spinal cord injuries, stroke, and other conditions requiring comprehensive rehabilitation. “Bringing together the diverse skills and years of experience of our rehabilitation team allows us to provide a more extensive scope of rehabilitation services and more effectively manage and develop treatment plans for patients’ multiple needs,” said Carlos Carrasco, manager, ORRI. In addition to physical rehabilitation services, social work/case management, therapeutic recreation, spiritual care, neuropsychology, and dietician services are offered to patients and families to help ensure needs are met as patients transition from rehabilitation to their lives in the community. The inpatient, acute rehabilitation programs have received a three-year accreditation, the highest level awarded, from the Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities (CARF). CARF is a not-for-profit organization that accredits programs and services in medical rehabilitation, employment and community services, assisted living, adult day services and behavioral health.

Orlando Regional Healthcare, a 1,652-bed private, not-for-profit organization was established in 1918. The hospital system serves more that 640,000 Central Florida residents and 4,500 international patients annually. Physicians are independent contractors and are not employees of Orlando Regional Healthcare or its subsidiaries. As a community-owned organization, Orlando Regional Healthcare reinvests its profits into many one-of-a-kind, specialized services like Central Florida’s only Level One trauma center and statutory teaching hospital. U.S. News & World Report ranked Orlando Regional Healthcare as one of the nation’s best hospitals and Fortune magazine recognized Orlando Regional as one of the Top 100 Companies to Work for in America.

More information is available at www.orlandoregional.org.

Technology helps Orlando Regional hospitals weather the storm

8/26/2005 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, FL (August 26, 2005)

Like most Floridians, talk about the weather has taken on new meaning with Orlando Regional Healthcare’s emergency operations team - especially during hurricane season. Last year, Orlando Regional identified a need to have more accurate weather information for each hospital. Marked complete on this year’s checklist is the installation of WeatherActive, a weather monitoring system developed by Praxis Software, Inc. “During a hurricane or other weathers storms, wind speed, rain fall, temperature and other conditions vary at each facility,” said Mike Braden, corporate director, Technical Services, Orlando Regional Healthcare. “The weather monitoring technology at our downtown and community campuses provides additional tools to help us make decisions during emergency operations mode such as patient evacuations and facilities management issues.” WeatherActive captures real-time data of temperature, pressure, wind speed, humidity, dew point, rainfall and other climate conditions. The system also has the capability to program alerts to pagers based on specific weather conditions (i.e. – winds at 60 miles per hour).

“In addition to helping our team members protect patients and safely deliver care during inclement weather, the information from the monitors also provides information for everyday planning,” Braden adds. “Data from each monitor can be accessed at Orlando Regional’s corporate Web site.” Monitors are installed downtown (for Orlando Regional Medical Center, Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children & Women, Orlando Regional Lucerne Hospital, MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando) and at Orlando Regional Sand Lake Hospital, Orlando Regional South Seminole Hospital and Orlando Regional St. Cloud Hospital.

Orlando Regional Healthcare, a 1,652-bed private, not-for-profit organization was established in 1918. The hospital system serves more than 640,000 Central Florida residents and 4,500 international patients annually. Physicians are independent contractors and are not employees of Orlando Regional Healthcare or its subsidiaries. As a community-owned organization, Orlando Regional reinvests its profits into many one-of-a-kind, specialized services like Central Florida’s only Level I trauma center and statutory teaching hospital. U.S.News & World Report ranked Orlando Regional Healthcare as one of the nation’s best hospitals, Fortune magazine recognized Orlando Regional as one of the Top 100 Companies to Work for in America and the Herman Group designated Orlando Regional Healthcare an Employer of Choice.

More information is available at www.orlandoregional.org.

Technology helps Orlando Regional hospitals weather the storm

8/26/2005 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, FL (August 26, 2005) — Like most Floridians, talk about the weather has taken on new meaning with Orlando Regional Healthcare’s emergency operations team - especially during hurricane season. Last year, Orlando Regional identified a need to have more accurate weather information for each hospital. Marked complete on this year’s checklist is the installation of WeatherActive, a weather monitoring system developed by Praxis Software, Inc.

“During a hurricane or other weathers storms, wind speed, rain fall, temperature and other conditions vary at each facility,” said Mike Braden, corporate director, Technical Services, Orlando Regional Healthcare. “The weather monitoring technology at our downtown and community campuses provides additional tools to help us make decisions during emergency operations mode such as patient evacuations and facilities management issues.”

WeatherActive captures real-time data of temperature, pressure, wind speed, humidity, dew point, rainfall and other climate conditions. The system also has the capability to program alerts to pagers based on specific weather conditions (i.e. – winds at 60 miles per hour).

“In addition to helping our team members protect patients and safely deliver care during inclement weather, the information from the monitors also provides information for everyday planning,” Braden adds. “Data from each monitor can be accessed at Orlando Regional’s corporate Web site.”

Monitors are installed downtown (for Orlando Regional Medical Center, Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children & Women, Orlando Regional Lucerne Hospital, MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando) and at Orlando Regional Sand Lake Hospital, Orlando Regional South Seminole Hospital and Orlando Regional St.Cloud Hospital.

St. Cloud Hospital team members serve meals and the community at Elmer’s Meal Kitchen

8/24/2005 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, FL (August 24, 2005) – Monday through Friday, Theresa Lee, a registered dietitian and clinical nutrition manager for Food & Nutrition Services, helps plan meals for patients at Orlando Regional St. Cloud Hospital. Every fourth Sunday, Theresa along with other hospital team members meet at Elmer’s Meal Kitchen to help prepare and serve meals to those in need. On Sunday, August 28, the group will present a $300 donation to the community organization. Team members sold ice cream sundaes to raise the money.

“Lending a hand to help Elmer’s is such a simple and wonderful opportunity to have a positive impact on the community,” Theresa said. Theresa coordinates the team member volunteers. “Knowing that we are able to help others in need and seeing the appreciation in their faces is rewarding. Hospital team members are grateful for the opportunity to reach out to the community. We hope our efforts inspire others to help.”

Beyond the Sunday gatherings, St. Cloud team members participate in brown bag food drives to collect pantry items for Elmer’s. Last year, the hospital helped with roast turkeys for the organization’s Thanksgiving dinner.

Carol Boroski, director of Elmer’s Meal Kitchen, is grateful for the support of St. Cloud Hospital and other churches and community organizations that sponsor a Sunday and support the mission.

“Our goal is to show those who have a limited income and are in need of food and shelter that they too are God’s children and that there are people in the community who care and want to help,” Carol shares. “Elmer’s was started with the donation of Elmer Olson (deceased). His vision, also shared by his friend Floyd Kelly (deceased) was for the community to join in helping others in need.” Elmer’s is located at St. Cloud First United Methodist Church’s Family Life Center, located at the corner of 11th and Ohio Streets in St. Cloud and has provided warm meals and friendly fellowship to the community since 2000. St. Cloud Hospital has been a supporter for nearly five years.

For more information about Elmer’s call Carol at (407) 892-3128. For Orlando Regional team members, who are interested in about joining the St. Cloud Hospital team members, contact Theresa at (407) 892-2135.

ORLANDO REGIONAL HEALTHCARE NAMES NEW VICE PRESIDENT OF NURSING

8/22/2005 12:00:00 AM

Orlando, FL (August 22, 2005) --- Orlando Regional Healthcare is pleased to announce the promotion of one of its longtime administrators, Anne Peach, to vice president of nursing. Peach will be responsible for the strategic direction of nursing services throughout the seven hospital system. Also, she will maintain her role as chief operating officer of MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando, a position she has held since 2000.

Peach’s notable background includes nearly 15 years of leadership with Orlando Regional. She has served as director of corporate education, site administrator and executive director of Orlando Regional Sand Lake Hospital, and chief operating officer of MD Anderson - Orlando.

She earned an undergraduate nursing degree from Seton Hall University in New Jersey. Peach went on to receive a master’s in nursing from the University of Pennsylvania. Her professional affiliations include the American Nurses Association, Florida Nurses Association and Sigma Theta Tau International. Peach is also a faculty member at University of Central Florida’s nursing school and has published several articles in nursing textbooks.

ABOUT ORLANDO REGIONAL HEALTHCARE

Orlando Regional Healthcare, a 1,652-bed private, not-for-profit organization was established in 1918. The hospital system serves more than 640,000 Central Florida residents and 4,500 international patients annually. As a community-owned organization, Orlando Regional reinvests its profits into many one-of-a-kind, specialized services like Central Florida’s only Level I trauma center and statutory teaching hospital. U.S.News & World Report ranked Orlando Regional Healthcare as one of the nation’s best hospitals, Fortune magazine recognized Orlando Regional as one of the Top 100 Companies to Work for in America and the Herman Group designated Orlando Regional Healthcare an Employer of Choice. More information is available at www.orlandoregional.org.

VirtualVisit technology connects doctors and patients online, safely and securely

8/22/2005 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, FL (August 22, 2005) — Anyone who has tried to schedule a doctor’s appointment over the phone knows how difficult it can be to discretely discuss symptoms when others are near by or the challenge with busy signals, on-hold messages or confusing prompts. Orlando Regional VirtualVisit offers a safe and secure alternative, without fears of personal information being overheard or having to spend time listening to hold music or playing phone tag. VirtualVisit is an interactive online health care delivery system connecting patients with their doctors’ offices.

“As advances in technology continue to become a more integral part of life, it is important to develop health care tools to provide alternatives to meet the growing needs in the community and solutions to busy lifestyles.”

Patients use VirtualVisit to schedule appointments, request referrals, renew a prescription, receive lab results and access medically reviewed information.

To begin, a patient logs on to the web based program using a secure username and password. From there a patient chooses an option to match their needs. For example, a patient logs on at 4 p.m. on Tuesday to request an appointment. Once submitted, the patient is informed the office will respond within 8 normal business hours (by 4 p.m. Wednesday). Doctors’ offices establish time frames to respond to each of the various requests so patients know in advance when to expect a response.

Patients can also use a VirtualVisit message type known as a “webVisit” for non-emergency care.

“After logging in, patients answer clinically-structured questions and identify symptoms they are experiencing. “For example, a patient with chronic lower back problems may indicate moderate back pain for seven days. Their physician’s response may indicate an in-office visit is needed or recommended treatment is provided which may include a renewal prescription electronically submitted into the patient’s choice of pharmacy, depending on the circumstance.”

In addition to meeting patient’s specific needs, VirtualVisit helps physician practices increase patient satisfaction, enhance office productivity and generate additional revenue.

“VirtualVisit offers doctors and their staff a more efficient way to manage non-urgent health care needs without jeopardizing confidential patient information. Research indicates an 18 to 20 percent reduction in phone calls and increased patient satisfaction. In some cases, doctors are reimbursed by insurance companies. Or, doctors may offer the service at no cost or for varying amounts.”

For more information about VirtualVisit, contact Kem Hall at (321) 843-5733.

VirtualVisit technology connects doctors and patients online, safely and securely

8/22/2005 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, FL (August 22, 2005)

Anyone who has tried to schedule a doctor’s appointment over the phone knows how difficult it can be to discretely discuss symptoms when others are near by or the challenge with busy signals, on-hold messages or confusing prompts. Orlando Regional VirtualVisit offers a safe and secure alternative, without fears of personal information being overheard or having to spend time listening to hold music or playing phone tag. VirtualVisit is an interactive online health care delivery system connecting patients with their doctors’ offices. “As advances in technology continue to become a more integral part of life, it is important to develop health care tools to provide alternatives to meet the growing needs in the community and solutions to busy lifestyles.” Patients use VirtualVisit to schedule appointments, request referrals, renew a prescription, receive lab results and access medically reviewed information.

To begin, a patient logs on to the web based program using a secure username and password. From there a patient chooses an option to match their needs. For example, a patient logs on at 4 p.m. on Tuesday to request an appointment. Once submitted, the patient is informed the office will respond within 8 normal business hours (by 4 p.m. Wednesday). Doctors’ offices establish time frames to respond to each of the various requests so patients know in advance when to expect a response. Patients can also use a VirtualVisit message type known as a “webVisit” for non-emergency care. “After logging in, patients answer clinically-structured questions and identify symptoms they are experiencing. “For example, a patient with chronic lower back problems may indicate moderate back pain for seven days. Their physician’s response may indicate an in-office visit is needed or recommended treatment is provided which may include a renewal prescription electronically submitted into the patient’s choice of pharmacy, depending on the circumstance.” In addition to meeting patient’s specific needs, VirtualVisit helps physician practices increase patient satisfaction, enhance office productivity and generate additional revenue. “VirtualVisit offers doctors and their staff a more efficient way to manage non-urgent health care needs without jeopardizing confidential patient information.

Research indicates an 18 to 20 percent reduction in phone calls and increased patient satisfaction. In some cases, doctors are reimbursed by insurance companies. Or, doctors may offer the service at no cost or for varying amounts.”

For more information about VirtualVisit, contact Kem Hall at (321) 843-5733.

Orlando Regional Sand Lake Hospital raises level of stroke care

8/16/2005 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, FL (August 16, 2005) — Strokes, like heart attacks, are life-and-death emergencies where minutes matter. Orlando Regional Healthcare has reached a new level to provide timely, acute stroke care to southwest Central Florida – home to several neighborhoods and a major tourism area. The Orlando Regional Stroke Center at Sand Lake opened in August to treat patients with stroke symptoms and deliver care to stroke patients to the level required by the Florida Stroke Act. The stroke act in part provides for EMS transport systems to identify and transport stroke victims to stroke centers, for efficient and effective treatment to prevent deaths and disabilities. “Stroke is the No. 3 cause of death and the leading cause of disability,” said Dr. Evan Allen, medical director of the Orlando Regional Stroke Center. “We have always been involved with educating the community about the warning signs of stroke, responding to symptoms and prevention. With the recent growth of our emergency department – including advanced imaging technology and specialized staff training, we are broadening the scope from providing community awareness to providing community resources.” Dr. Allen also served on the committee that helped draft the Florida Stroke Act. Required protocols currently in place with other services at Sand Lake Hospital include: a rapid response team composed of specially-trained registered nurses and respiratory therapists; neurology coverage 24 hours a day, seven days a week; neurosurgery coverage 24 hours a day, seven days a week; 24-hour diagnostic imaging - 16 slice Siemens Sensation CT Scanner in Emergency Department and Siemens 1.5 Tesla MRI; and cerebral angiography coverage 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Orlando Regional Healthcare, a 1,652-bed private, not-for-profit organization was established in 1918. The hospital system serves more than 640,000 Central Florida residents and 4,500 international patients annually. Physicians are independent contractors and are not employees of Orlando Regional Healthcare or its subsidiaries. As a community-owned organization, Orlando Regional reinvests its profits into many one-of-a-kind, specialized services like Central Florida’s only Level I trauma center and statutory teaching hospital. U.S.News & World Report ranked Orlando Regional Healthcare as one of the nation’s best hospitals, Fortune magazine recognized Orlando Regional as one of the Top 100 Companies to Work for in America and the Herman Group designated Orlando Regional Healthcare an Employer of Choice. More information is available at www.orlandoregional.org.

Orlando Regional Sand Lake Hospital raises level of stroke care

8/16/2005 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, FL (August 16, 2005) — Strokes, like heart attacks, are life-and-death emergencies where minutes matter. Orlando Regional Healthcare has reached a new level to provide timely, acute stroke care to southwest Central Florida – home to several neighborhoods and a major tourism area. The Orlando Regional Stroke Center at Sand Lake opened in August to treat patients with stroke symptoms and deliver care to stroke patients to the level required by the Florida Stroke Act. The stroke act in part provides for EMS transport systems to identify and transport stroke victims to stroke centers, for efficient and effective treatment to prevent deaths and disabilities.

“Stroke is the No. 3 cause of death and the leading cause of disability,” said Dr. Evan Allen, medical director of the Orlando Regional Stroke Center. “We have always been involved with educating the community about the warning signs of stroke, responding to symptoms and prevention. With the recent growth of our emergency department – including advanced imaging technology and specialized staff training, we are broadening the scope from providing community awareness to providing community resources.” Dr. Allen also served on the committee that helped draft the Florida Stroke Act.

Required protocols currently in place with other services at Sand Lake Hospital include: a rapid response team composed of specially-trained registered nurses and respiratory therapists; neurology coverage 24 hours a day, seven days a week; neurosurgery coverage 24 hours a day, seven days a week; 24-hour diagnostic imaging - 16 slice Siemens Sensation CT Scanner in Emergency Department and Siemens 1.5 Tesla MRI; and cerebral angiography coverage 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

Tiny Two Pound Special Delivery Transported from Panama Goes Home

7/25/2005 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, FL (July 25, 2005) -- After spending a little more than three months in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) at Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children & Women, Trinity Simmons went home on Thursday, July 21. Trinity was born three months early while her parents, Orlando residents Mark and Alyssa Simmons, and her 3-year-old sister Sagan were vacationing on a remote beach in Panama.

Simmons, who was 26-weeks pregnant, went into premature labor and was flown to Centro Medico Paitilla hospital in Panama City, Panama, on April 8, where she delivered Trinity by emergency cesarean section. The Panamanian medical team lead by Dr. Juan Jose Arauz, a neonatologist, treated and stabilized Trinity, who weighed just 2 lbs (943 grams) and contacted Dr. Gregor Alexander, neonatologist and chief of pediatrics at Arnold Palmer Hospital, to arrange her transfer to Orlando. The hospital’s (NICU) Transport team made its first international transport on April 14, when it flew to Panama, to bring Trinity to Orlando.

“The medical team in Panama did an excellent job in caring for Trinity and stabilizing her so we could transport her back to Arnold Palmer Hospital,” Dr. Alexander said. “Since then she has undergone several surgeries and is doing tremendously well weighing 6 lbs 2 oz. We expect her to continue to do very well and lead a normal life.”

Orlando Regional Healthcare earns Employer of Choice® Recognition

7/21/2005 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, FL (July 21, 2005) — On Thursday, July 21, Orlando Regional Healthcare was named an “Employer of Choice,” for its dedication to a level of employee relationships that goes above and beyond normal human resources practices. Orlando Regional was selected an "Employer of Choice®" by a team of experts on employee retention and workplace trends. Among the experts making this determination were Roger Herman and Joyce Gioia (joy-yah) of The Herman Group, co-authors of the book How to Become an Employer of Choice.

“Building a competent and compassionate team to care for Central Florida communities and beyond is its own reward. To receive the “Employer of Choice®” designation from workforce specialists is a tribute to the excellent customer service our team members provide to our patients, their families and to each other on a daily basis,” says John Hillenmeyer, Orlando Regional Healthcare President/CEO.

Orlando Regional Healthcare is the only hospital in Central Florida, the third hospital in the state, the 11th health care organization, and only the 18th employer in the country to achieve this designation. In addition, Orlando Regional Healthcare received the third highest application score in the history of the award and is the first organization to receive the designation for a two-year period.

Organizations earning the Employer of Choice credential qualify by scoring among the top 10 percent of employers in eight areas including: enlightened leadership (vision and direction while being open and accessible); care of people (demonstrating concern of health and well-being of team members); growth and opportunities (education, mentoring, cross-training); employee loyalty (high retention); and making a difference (supporting local causes and reaching out to the community).

“Team members are critical to realizing our mission to improve the lives of the communities we serve. Orlando Regional is committed to attracting, growing and retaining professional, knowledgeable and caring team members. We work continuously to foster an employee-centric culture based on constant communication and collaboration between employees and the management team to ensure we are able to serve when it matters most,” Hillenmeyer continues.

Orlando Regional has several practices in place to support team members’ professional and personal development, including continuing education programs; communications forums; mind, body and spirit wellness programs; community outreach opportunities and recognition programs.

Gioia, CEO of Employer of Choice, Inc. has unqualified praise for Orlando Regional: “Orlando Regional inspires confidence in what is possible in healthcare: enlightened corporate and clinical leadership, a caring and cohesive nursing staff, exceptional patient care focus, continuous innovation, and a positive relationship with the community. The organization has created an exceptionally "healthy culture" where the patient and family are at the center of the core strategies and business model, adds Gioia.

The rigorous application process to achieve the Employer of Choice® designation involved the completion of an extensive application, conducting an organizational survey and a formal site visit for those scoring high enough on the first two items. An independent consultant conducted the site visit that included focus group meetings with senior executives, managers, supervisors, team members and medical staff. The evaluator also gained further insight into Orlando Regional through informal, unsupervised “hallway chats” with team members. The evaluator followed an established process to validate demonstrated competencies and consistency in critical business practices.

Orlando Regional Healthcare earns Employer of Choice® Recognition

7/21/2005 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, FL (July 21, 2005) — On Thursday, July 21, Orlando Regional Healthcare was named an “Employer of Choice,” for its dedication to a level of employee relationships that goes above and beyond normal human resources practices. Orlando Regional was selected an "Employer of Choice®" by Employer of Choice, Inc. , a team of experts on employee retention and workplace trends. Among the experts making this determination were Roger Herman and Joyce Gioia (joy-yah) of The Herman Group, co-authors of the book How to Become an Employer of Choice. “Building a competent and compassionate team to care for Central Florida communities and beyond is its own reward. To receive the “Employer of Choice®” designation from workforce specialists is a tribute to the excellent customer service our team members provide to our patients, their families and to each other on a daily basis,” says John Hillenmeyer, Orlando Regional Healthcare President/CEO. Orlando Regional Healthcare is the only hospital in Central Florida, the third hospital in the state, the 11th health care organization, and only the 18th employer in the country to achieve this designation. In addition, Orlando Regional Healthcare received the third highest application score in the history of the award and is the first organization to receive the designation for a two-year period. Organizations earning the Employer of Choice credential qualify by scoring among the top 10 percent of employers in eight areas including: enlightened leadership (vision and direction while being open and accessible); care of people (demonstrating concern of health and well-being of team members); growth and opportunities (education, mentoring, cross-training); employee loyalty (high retention); and making a difference (supporting local causes and reaching out to the community). “Team members are critical to realizing our mission to improve the lives of the communities we serve. Orlando Regional is committed to attracting, growing and retaining professional, knowledgeable and caring team members. We work continuously to foster an employee-centric culture based on constant communication and collaboration between employees and the management team to ensure we are able to serve when it matters most,” Hillenmeyer continues. Orlando Regional has several practices in place to support team members’ professional and personal development, including continuing education programs; communications forums; mind, body and spirit wellness programs; community outreach opportunities and recognition programs. Gioia, CEO of Employer of Choice, Inc. has unqualified praise for Orlando Regional: “Orlando Regional inspires confidence in what is possible in healthcare: enlightened corporate and clinical leadership, a caring and cohesive nursing staff, exceptional patient care focus, continuous innovation, and a positive relationship with the community. The organization has created an exceptionally "healthy culture" where the patient and family are at the center of the core strategies and business model, adds Gioia. The rigorous application process to achieve the Employer of Choice® designation involved the completion of an extensive application, conducting an organizational survey and a formal site visit for those scoring high enough on the first two items. An independent consultant conducted the site visit that included focus group meetings with senior executives, managers, supervisors, team members and medical staff. The evaluator also gained further insight into Orlando Regional through informal, unsupervised “hallway chats” with team members. The evaluator followed an established process to validate demonstrated competencies and consistency in critical business practices. Orlando Regional Healthcare, a 1,652-bed private, not-for-profit organization was established in 1918. The hospital system serves more than 640,000 Central Florida residents and 4,500 international patients annually. As a community-owned organization, Orlando Regional reinvests its profits into many one-of-a-kind, specialized services like Central Florida’s only Level I trauma center and statutory teaching hospital. U.S. News & World Report ranked Orlando Regional Healthcare as one of the nation’s best hospitals and Fortune magazine recognized Orlando Regional as one of the Top 100 Companies to Work for in America. More information is available at www.orlandoregional.org.

MD Anderson - Orlando Performs First Robotic Hysterectomy in State

7/20/2005 12:00:00 AM

Orlando, Fla. – July 20, 2005 – MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando is the first in the state to debut a revolutionary new procedure to help hysterectomy patients get back on their feet after surgery in dramatically less time – often times going home the next day.

The technology allowed Dr. Jenkins to perform a complex hysterectomy on a woman with a gynecologic cancer by directing robotic arms through small abdominal incisions in the patient, while carefully monitoring each step in 3-D on a television screen. The robotic surgical system has traditionally been used for prostate surgery, and now for women the new procedure could help thousands of patients recover from hysterectomies faster.

“The robotic technology permits me to make smaller incisions in the patient and have unprecedented precision while operating,” said Dr. Jenkins. “The arms have amazing flexibility and move much like the human wrist. Most importantly, it allows me to perform surgery with less risk of infection and discomfort to my patients as compared to open hysterectomy.”

For the many patients needing hysterectomies and prostatectomies, performed by surgeons at MD Anderson – Orlando each year it is now possible that a less invasive procedure may be offered. A more speedy recovery of patients who receive various robot-assisted surgeries now can be expected, including women needing hysterectomies.

MD Anderson - Orlando Treats Lung Cancer Patients with New Respiratory Gating Technology

7/18/2005 12:00:00 AM

Orlando, FL (July 18, 2005) - At MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando, cancer patients suffering from tumors obstructed by respiratory movement can now benefit from more precise Image-Guided Radiotherapy treatment with BrainLAB`s Adaptive Respiratory Gating system. MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando is one of the first sites in the United States to treat a lung tumor patient using the technology, which enables physicians to target tumors by adjusting to the patient`s breathing patterns within a millimeter of accuracy.

"When treating oncology patients with radiotherapy, the goal is to destroy the cancerous cells without causing undue harm to the rest of the body," said Dr. Alan R. Forbes, radiation oncologist at MD Anderson Orlando. "We have used the BrainLAB gating system for more than 300 treatments in the first five months. The system`s capabilities have allowed us to target precisely the affected tissue by accommodating for the tumor movement caused by breathing. We are able to spare the surrounding healthy tissue with a high degree of confidence."

The new technology overcomes treatment limitations caused by breathing-induced tumor motion in three steps. First, the gating system synchronizes tumor motion with the patient`s breathing pattern by acquiring multiple pictures taken of the tumor inside the lung. From the images, the three-dimensional movement of the tumor is captured and its exact location for treatment delivery is calculated. Finally, the technology delivers radiation only when the tumor is exactly in the path of the treatment beam. If the tumor moves out of the treatment beam, the radiation is automatically interrupted to protect the patient¡¦s healthy tissue.

For patients with lung and liver tumors, this means more effective treatment and fewer complications from side effects like fatigue and shortness of breath.

"When the doctor told me about targeting only the tumor and not the entire lung, I definitely thought it was a good idea," said Larry Quinn, a 70-year-old Orlando resident and the second person to be treated with BrainLAB`s Adaptive Respiratory Gating system. Quinn can now breathe easier as he looks forward to spending days to come reading to his grandchildren and spending time with his wife and other family members.

"The introduction of Adaptive Gating is a complement to BrainLAB`s ExacTrac„¥ X-Ray 6D Image-Guided Radiation Therapy technology, which utilizes high-resolution x-ray imaging combined with infrared tracking,¡¨ said Mark Bruseski, Director of Radiosurgery ¡V BrainLAB Inc. ¡§The technology is clinically established in over 60 leading sites worldwide allowing them to position the patient with millimeter accuracy and make adjustments seconds before treatment. Maintaining its standing as a leader in the industry, Adaptive Gating allows ExacTrac X-Ray 6D to go one step further to precisely position the patient for treatment of lesions in areas such as the liver and lung where movement of the lesion is a result of patient breathing."

New Animated Children’s Film to Benefit Arnold Palmer Hospital

6/29/2005 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, FL (June 29, 2005) –When Tugger, a new animated children’s film, premiers on July 2, it will not only show children that dreams can come true but will also help children at Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children & Women. Genesis Orlando, a 3D digital animation studio in Celebration, Florida, produced the feature film and chose Arnold Palmer Hospital as one of the movie’s beneficiaries. A portion of the merchandise and DVD sales for the movie will be donated to the hospital.

Tugger is an inspiring tale of a 1940’s Jeep® whose engine is damaged during his wartime duty in World War II. After a GI mechanic replaces his fan with an airplane propeller, Tugger is convinced that his destiny is to fly like a real airplane. He and his side-kick radio, Shorty, embark on an adventure to make Tugger’s dream of flying a reality.

“We’re very excited about being part of this project that we hope will inspire children to follow their dreams and for them to know they can accomplish anything they set out to do in life,” said John Bozard, president of the Arnold Palmer Hospital Foundation. “We appreciate the support that Jeffery Varab, owner/CEO of Genesis Orlando, has given Arnold Palmer Hospital as it will make a difference in the lives of the children we care for everyday.”

The film’s world premier is scheduled for Saturday, July 2, at Market Street in downtown Celebration. Festivities begin at 3 p.m. that include opening ceremonies at 5:30 p.m.; the world premiere of the film at 6:30 p.m.; a free concert by Jim Belushi & the Scared Hearts Band at 8 p.m. followed by fireworks at 10 p.m. Jim Belushi stars as the voice of Tugger in the animated movie.
With the help of the United States Air Force, the premier’s opening ceremonies and concert will be broadcast via satellite to more than 400,000 troops and their families worldwide in a special “Salute to Our Armed Forces.”

New women’s health center opens in St. Cloud

6/10/2005 12:00:00 AM

ST. CLOUD, FL (June 10, 2005) — Women in St. Cloud have a new option in health care. Medical Solutions for Women, an Orlando Regional St. Cloud Hospital affiliate, opens June 15. Behind the doors of the center, located across the street from St. Cloud Hospital, is a team of health care clinicians to provide women’s health care services with compassion and a quaint, hometown feel in a serene environment. Medical Solutions is the first offering of gynecological focused services in partnership with St. Cloud Hospital.

“To meet the diverse health needs of women in St. Cloud, our new women’s health center combines the experience of a doctor who has served the Osceola community for nearly 20 years, with the advance technology, resources and continued growth of St. Cloud Hospital,” said Mark Aanonson, executive director, St. Cloud Hospital.

Dr. Peter Casella, obstetrician/gynecologist and medical director, along with other health care clinicians will provide a full range of gynecological services. In addition to providing wellness care and prenatal care (first trimester) to patients, Medical Solutions offers diagnostic testing including ultrasound and bone density screening. The imaging services will help determine medical conditions such as osteoporosis, endometriosis, fibrocystic breast disease or fibroid tumors, ovarian cysts, urinary tract disorders and other gynecological issues. Mammography is a few steps away at St. Cloud Hospital. Also, when necessary, Medical Solutions provides referrals to board certified physicians and specialists.

“I have seen the look of worry and concern as mothers, wives and daughters are faced with the unknown or once medical issues have been diagnosed,” said Dr. Casella. “We want to ease the level of anxiety by providing diagnostic services as quickly as possible and begin treatment plans sooner so patients can return to their lives.”

In addition to efficient delivery of specialized health care, the center is designed to provide patients with a warm and inviting atmosphere that includes waterfall wall sconces, an aquarium filled with tropical and exotic fish and a foyer with oversized chairs and rattan rockers for relaxing before an appointment. Soft, natural and earth-tone colors and other “at home” elements were chosen to help patients feel more comfortable in the individual exam rooms, the imaging services area and throughout the center.

“Gynecological exams alone can be a bit unsettling,” said Dr. Casella. “When concerns arise, anxiety levels can increase even more. Utilizing experience and expertise, women’s health care can be provided with compassion in our serene environment. ”

Medical Solutions will be open Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. To schedule an appointment, or for more information about Medical Solutions, contact the office at (407) 498-3670.

It’s Raining Triplets at Arnold Palmer Hospital

5/5/2005 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, FL (May 5, 2005) --- Mother Nature left more than torrential rains in Orlando on Wednesday. She also delivered three sets of triplets within 24 hours at Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children & Women.

“This was definitely a record day for us as we’ve never delivered three sets of triplets in one day,” said Gregor Alexander, MD, chief of pediatrics/neonatologist at Arnold Palmer Hospital. “In the 30 years I’ve been practicing medicine, I’ve never seen anything like this. This is a very rare occurrence.”

The babies, three girls and six boys, ranged in weight from 3 lbs 3 oz to 4 lbs 9 oz and were born within seven and a half hours of each other. The first set was born at 8:30 a.m., the second at just before noon and the third a few minutes before 4 p.m. They are all currently in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit. In the midst of all the triplets a set of twins were also born on Wednesday.

Florida Safety Council honors rehab doctor for prevention efforts

5/1/2005 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, FL (May 1, 2005) --- As a physical medicine and rehabilitation physician, Dr. David Portée helps rebuild lives after tragic circumstances. One of his passions is to prevent them. Because of his commitment to safety, the Florida Safety Council honored Dr. Portée, medical director of Orlando Regional Rehabilitation Services, with the council’s Golden Star Safety Award for 2004 during its 52nd Annual Safety Awards Luncheon in January.

The award is presented to, “. . . an individual who has demonstrated exemplary commitment and has made significant contributions in safety and/or health that enhanced the quality of life for the citizens of Florida.”

Recently, Dr. Portée helped lead an effort of several community organizations — including Orange County Public Schools, City of Orlando, The Ninth Judicial Circuit Court, Orange County Sheriff’s Office, Winter Park Police Department, and Orange County Community Traffic Safety Team — to produce If You Don’t Die, a video aimed at educating high school students about the dangers of alcohol and drug use while driving and as a passenger. If You Don’t Die will be viewed by county schools as they participate in the live Mock DUI Project. In addition, the video will be shared with school districts and community organizations across the state and country.

Dr. Portée, medical director since 1996, has worked on various community safety projects, including a drug abuse prevention program. Before joining Orlando Regional, he served as medical director of rehabilitation services at Henry Ford Health System in Detroit, Michigan. Dr. Portée graduated from the University of Michigan Medical School and completed residency programs at the Detroit Rehabilitation Institute.

Tiny Two Pound Special Delivery Transported from Panama

4/15/2005 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, FL(April 15, 2005) – The Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) Transport team at Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children & Women made its first international transport on April 14, when it responded to a call from Panama City, Panama. The three hour National Jet Air Ambulance flight delivered a tiny bundle of joy named Trinity Simmons to Arnold Palmer Hospital’s neonatal intensive care unit. Trinity was born three months early while her parents, Orlando residents Mark and Alyssa Simmons and her 3-year-old sister Sagan were vacationing on a remote beach in Panama.

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Simmons, who was 26-weeks pregnant, went into premature labor and was flown to Centro Medico Paitilla hospital on April 8, where she delivered Trinity by emergency cesarean section. The Panamanian medical team lead by Dr. Juan Jose Arauz, a neonatologist, treated and stabilized Trinity, who weighed just 2 lbs (943 grams) and contacted Dr. Gregor Alexander, neonatologist and chief of pediatrics at Arnold Palmer Hospital, to arrange her transfer to Orlando.

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“The medical team in Panama did an excellent job in caring for Trinity and stabilizing her so we could transport her back to Orlando,” Dr. Alexander said. “After her birth, Trinity was placed on a respirator and while still in Panama she had to have fluid drained from her chest and abdomen. We kept in close contact with Dr. Arauz as they monitored her for about a week to ensure her stability for the flight.”

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Accompanying Dr. Alexander on the transport were Brenda Forrest, RN, NICU transport coordinator and Carol Vasiliades, CRT, NICU transport team member, which was reassuring to the Simmons as it helped calm their fears about the transport home.

“We were very lucky to have had such good care in Panama however it was such a relief to see Dr. Alexander and his transport team arrive to take us home to Orlando,” Alyssa Simmons, a killer whale trainer at Sea World said. “I knew everything was going to be okay and our prayers thus far had been answered. We were just very fortunate.”

For the Simmons family, faith helped them through this difficult time and inspired their newborn’s name. As he waited outside the operating room during the cesarean section, Mark prayed to the Father, Son and Holy Spirit for a miracle and so they named their daughter Trinity.

Orlando Visual Artists’ League Presents Cancer Relief Awareness & Art Benefit

4/6/2005 12:00:00 AM

Orlando Visual Artists’ League (OVAL) will hold a reception from 6 to 9 p.m., Thursday, April 21, at the OVAL Gallery (29 S. Orange Ave.) to kick off "Cancer Relief Awareness & Art Benefit (CRAAB)," an art therapy program.

In addition to the art therapy program, several pieces of unique art will be for sale. The pieces will range from cancer-themed gold and silver belt buckles to contemporary and traditional pieces created by area artists especially for the event. Proceeds will benefit Hospice of the Comforter, a nonprofit hospice for terminally ill patients, and OVAL.

CRAAB, which will run through mid-May and then travel through Central Florida afterward, offers visitors a unique opportunity to create and expand the exhibit.

Twenty-six canvases will be available to express a thought or memory of a loved one, personal experience or an artistic statement about a disease that affects nearly 10 million Americans.

Each canvas will focus on a different letter of the alphabet, so participants can choose a letter with the most meaning to start on a therapeutic journey to self expression, cleansing, sharing or prayer. Art supplies will be available, and participants are encouraged to bring mementos or material of particular personal meaning to apply to the canvas. There is no fee to participate.

The art therapy program is the brainchild of local sculptor Steve Piscatelli, who is creating cancer-themed jewelry as well as figurative work for CRAAB.

"There is an enormous need to talk and discuss cancer, to remove any stigma and create dialogue in the community about the disease," said Piscatelli.

He and others at OVAL see this as an opportunity to bring art and awareness together, providing therapy and education through art.

"Ideally, we want cancer awareness to spread faster than the disease itself."

Sponsors of the exhibit include MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando, Mateer Harbert, Hospice of the Comforter and OVAL.

OVAL is a volunteer-based, 501-(c)(3) non-profit organization, that focuses on promoting Central Florida arts and artists, and whose goals include bringing positive social, charitable and economic growth to our community.

Continuing the Legacy: Orlando Regional Healthcare Announces Name of New Hospital for Women & Babies

3/16/2005 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, FL (March 16, 2005) – For more than 20 years the Palmer family has supported Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children & Women creating a long-lasting legacy of caring in Central Florida. Today, John Bozard, president of Orlando Regional Healthcare Foundation, along with professional golfer Arnold Palmer announced the name of Orlando Regional’s newest hospital - Winnie Palmer Hospital for Women & Babies.

“We believe the greatest legacy Winnie Palmer shared with Arnold Palmer Hospital was her love and compassion for children and women,” said Bozard. “Naming our new hospital after Winnie Palmer is a natural continuation of a legacy of caring that began over 20 years ago and will continue for generations to come.”

Winnie Palmer gave a great deal of her time to help shape Arnold Palmer Hospital’s vision and mission and served on the hospital’s board of directors for more than 10 years. She also initiated several traditions at the hospital including the annual Halloween parade for patients to help them forget for a moment where they are so they can enjoy being a child. Additionally, Winnie and Arnold would often spend time with staff to thank them for their dedication to caring for children and women as well as visit with patients to hear their stories.

“I can’t think of a more appropriate tribute to honor my mother’s warm heart, caring spirit and commitment to helping others, than naming the new hospital after her,” said Amy Saunders, Winnie and Arnold’s daughter.

The generosity and leadership of the Palmer family and support from the National Advisory Council (NAC) has helped make the dream possible. The NAC, assembled by Mr. Palmer and comprised of national and local business leaders in addition to family friends, leads national fundraising efforts and increases awareness by sharing Arnold Palmer Hospital’s story with global audiences.

“Caring for others was one of Winnie’s greatest passions and she would be very pleased to see the realization of the vision she helped set forth for the children and women of Central Florida,” said Palmer.

The new 273-bed, 11-story Winnie Palmer Hospital for Women & Babies will be located across from Arnold Palmer Hospital expanding the current women’s and neonatal intensive care services. The hospital’s unique, circular design provides a maximum-efficient layout in all areas of the hospital creating a patient-centered environment. Design features include a serene setting through the use of warm, soothing colors and tones, private rooms with Murphy beds for family members; natural lighting with oversized windows in patient rooms; celebration rooms for families to gather after the birth of a new baby and flexible space to respond to future needs. This expansion will allow the existing Arnold Palmer Hospital to be transformed into a dedicated children’s facility expanding pediatric services. Additionally construction is currently underway on a new pediatric emergency department and trauma center. To learn more about the Winnie Palmer Hospital for Women & Babies log on to www.winniepalmerhospital.org.

Have Medical Bag, Will Travel

2/22/2005 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, FL (February 22, 2005) – Two Orlando Regional Healthcare residents are packing their scrubs and stethoscopes, boarding a plane and crossing an ocean to help tsunami survivors. Dr. Sonali Lakhani and Dr. Lushantha Gunasekera, internal medicine residents, will leave in early March for a month-long trip to Sri Lanka to provide much needed medical care.

“After the tsunamis, like most, we watched the news, read the papers and we were moved by the work we saw others doing,” Dr. Lakhani said. “We began to think about ways we too could make a difference and have an impact. What better way to take care of patients than to help when there is such a dramatic need?”

In time, the answer became clear. The residents spent a few weeks talking with others who found a way to help and researching avenues.

“Support for tsunami survivors has come from all over the world and in different forms,” said Dr. Lakhani. “People have sent supplies and made donations, however now manpower, care and compassion is needed.”

Since Dr. Gunasekera and Dr. Lakhani’s husband were born in Sri Lanka, they decided to make final arrangements for the trip through Sarvodaya, a charitable organization in Sri Lanka.

“We have had tremendous support of donated supplies from the local community as people hear about the trip,” said Dr. Gunasekera.

In addition to their medical experience and supplies, the doctors will take donated toys and books, in hopes of bringing laughter, smiles and joy to their young Sri Lankan patients.

Dr. Brian Kiss, internal medicine academic chair, said the residents’ decision to practice medicine to aid tsunami survivors, will have a far greater impact than the elective credit they will receive.

“Providing medical care abroad, in a post-disaster environment, is a way for residents to gain experience beyond traditional physician training settings,” Dr. Kiss said. “This is an opportunity to learn to do more with less. And in some cases, while diagnosing and treating illnesses we don’t see often in our community. The sense of accomplishment and greater appreciation for resources will add a dimension of experience not found in any classroom.”

Dr. Gunasekera foresees the experience as an opportunity to strengthen medical basics.

“We will learn a great deal by helping others,” Dr. Gunasekera said. “Here we are used to ordering labs and imaging studies, but there we will rely more on basic skills – taking histories performing physical exams, using our stethoscopes and listening closely to patients to better understand there physical and psychological needs. This type of broad range of experience will help us in practice later on.”

Dr. Lakhani agrees and looks forward to the gratification the experience will bring personally and professionally.

“It’s an amazing opportunity to make a difference – to help bring peace and hope to those who have been affected,” Dr. Lakhani said.

Orlando Regional Hosts Cardiovascular Wellness Series

2/8/2005 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, FL (February 8, 2005) --- Take heart and take steps toward a healthier lifestyle by attending Orlando Regional Healthcare`s Cardiovascular Wellness Series. The following classes will be held at Orlando Regional Medical Center, 1414 Kuhl Avenue, Multipurpose Rooms, from 7 to 8 p.m. Registration is free. Self-parking is $3, and valet parking is $4. Seating is limited and reservations must be made by calling (800) 648-7899.

Tuesday, February 22
Matters of the Heart
Presented by Maude Andrews, R.N., M.S.N.
Learn the warning signs and symptoms of heart disease and heart attacks. Become aware of ways men and women differ in matters of the heart.

Tuesday, March 1
Peripheral Vascular Disease & You
Presented by Deanna Snyder, R.N.
Gain knowledge of the warning signs, symptoms and treatment options for poor circulation or leg pain.

Tuesday, March 8
Eat Your Heart Out: Healthy Eating for Your Heart
Presented by Nayda Labrador, R.D., C.D.E.
Discover ways to eat healthy with a colorful and tasty dinner plate, following food pyramid guidelines.

Orlando Regional Hosts Cardiovascular Wellness Series

2/8/2005 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, FL (February 8, 2005) --- Take heart and take steps toward a healthier lifestyle by attending Orlando Regional Healthcare’s Cardiovascular Wellness Series. The following classes will be held at Orlando Regional Medical Center, 1414 Kuhl Avenue, Multipurpose Rooms, from 7 to 8 p.m. Registration is free. Self-parking is $3, and valet parking is $4. Seating is limited and reservations must be made by calling (800) 648-7899. Tuesday, February 22 Matters of the Heart: Presented by Maude Andrews, R.N., M.S.N. ? Learn the warning signs and symptoms of heart disease and heart attacks. Become aware of ways men and women differ in matters of the heart. Tuesday, March 1 Peripheral Vascular Disease & You: Presented by Deanna Snyder, R.N. ? Gain knowledge of the warning signs, symptoms and treatment options for poor circulation or leg pain. Tuesday, March 8 Eat Your Heart Out – Healthy Eating for Your Heart: Presented by Nayda Labrador, R.D., C.D.E. ? Discover ways to eat healthy with a colorful and tasty dinner plate, following food pyramid guidelines. Orlando Regional Healthcare, a 1,640-bed private, not-for-profit organization was established in 1918. The hospital system serves more than 640,000 Central Florida residents and 4,500 international patients annually. As a community-owned organization, Orlando Regional reinvests its profits into many one-of-a-kind, specialized services like Central Florida’s only Level I trauma center and statutory teaching hospital. U.S.News & World Report ranked Orlando Regional Healthcare as one of the nation’s best hospitals and Fortune magazine recognized Orlando Regional as one of the Top 100 Companies to Work for in America. More information is available at www.orlandoregional.org.

Community organizations take to the big screen to prevent real life tragedies

2/3/2005 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, FL (February 3, 2005) --- The death of a motor vehicle crash victim and the critical injuries of another were fake. The DUI and manslaughter charges of the driver of the car that crashed were not real either. Even the story itself was fictionalized by writers. However, the events and outcomes depicted in the mock DUI video, If You Don’t Die are seen far too often by Dr. David Portée, medical director of Orlando Regional Healthcare Rehabilitation Services. Real-life challenges that patients fight to overcome, led Dr. Portée to contact the Orange County Community Traffic Safety Team to discuss new ways to inform teens about what happens to survivors of motor vehicle crashes involving alcohol and drugs. Members of the community safety team, Sheryl Bradley, traffic analyst with the City of Orlando and Winnie Gerken, safety manager, Orange County Public Schools (OCPS), began working with others to incorporate Dr. Portée’s idea into the county’s live Mock DUI Project. The work for the If You Don’t Die video began. The Orange County Community Traffic Safety Team, made up of several law enforcement and community entities, joined to produce the video aimed at educating high school students about the dangers of alcohol and drug use while driving and as a passenger. Beginning this year, the If You Don’t Die video will be viewed by county schools as they participate- in the live Mock DUI Project. In addition, the video will be shared with school districts and community organizations across the state and country. The video illustrates the changes that happen to “Sally,” after her car was struck by another vehicle operated under the influence of alcohol. Sally sustained critical injuries including a punctured lung, a ruptured spleen, a fractured pelvis and spinal cord trauma. Orlando Regional Lucerne Hospital team members, staged scenes from the emergency room, intensive care unit, acute care unit, rehabilitation unit and nursing home.

Florida Safety Council honors rehab doctor for prevention efforts

2/3/2005 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, FL (February 3, 2005) --- As a physical medicine and rehabilitation physician, Dr. David Portée helps rebuild lives after tragic circumstances. One of his passions is to prevent them. Because of his commitment to safety, the Florida Safety Council honored Dr. Portée, medical director of Orlando Regional Rehabilitation Services, with the council’s Golden Star Safety Award for 2004 during its 52nd Annual Safety Awards Luncheon in January. The award is presented to, “. . . an individual who has demonstrated exemplary commitment and has made significant contributions in safety and/or health that enhanced the quality of life for the citizens of Florida.” Recently, Dr. Portée helped lead an effort of several community organizations — — including Orange County Public Schools, City of Orlando, The Ninth Judicial Circuit Court, Orange County Sheriff’s Office, Winter Park Police Department, and Orange County Community Traffic Safety Team — to produce If You Don’t Die, a video aimed at educating high school students about the dangers of alcohol and drug use while driving and as a passenger. If You Don’t Die will be viewed by county schools as they participate in the live Mock DUI Project. In addition, the video will be shared with school districts and community organizations across the state and country. Dr. Portée, medical director since 1996, has worked on various community safety projects, including a drug abuse prevention program. Before joining Orlando Regional, he served as medical director of rehabilitation services at Henry Ford Health System in Detroit, Michigan. Dr. Portée graduated from the University of Michigan Medical School and completed residency programs at the Detroit Rehabilitation Institute. Orlando Regional Healthcare, a 1,640-bed private, not-for-profit organization was established in 1918. The hospital system serves more than 640,000 Central Florida residents and 4,500 international patients annually. As a community-owned organization, Orlando Regional reinvests its profits into many one-of-a-kind, specialized services like Central Florida’s only Level I trauma center and statutory teaching hospital. U.S.News & World Report ranked Orlando Regional Healthcare as one of the nation’s best hospitals and Fortune magazine recognized Orlando Regional as one of the Top 100 Companies to Work for in America. More information is available at www.orlandoregional.org.

Community organizations take to the big screen to prevent real life tragedies

2/3/2005 12:00:00 AM

Real-life challenges that patients fight to overcome, led Dr. Portée to contact the Orange County Community Traffic Safety Team to discuss new ways to inform teens about what happens to survivors of motor vehicle crashes involving alcohol and drugs. Members of the community safety team, Sheryl Bradley, traffic analyst with the City of Orlando and Winnie Gerken, safety manager, Orange County Public Schools (OCPS), began working with others to incorporate Dr. Portée’s idea into the county’s live Mock DUI Project. The work for the If You Don’t Die video began.

Several entities — including OCPS, City of Orlando, The Ninth Judicial Circuit Court, Orange County Sheriff’s Office, Winter Park Police Department, and Orange County Community Traffic Safety Team — joined to produce the video aimed at educating high school students about the dangers of alcohol and drug use while driving and as a passenger.

Beginning this year, the If You Don’t Die video will be viewed by county schools as they participate- in the live Mock DUI Project. In addition, the video will be shared with school districts and community organizations across the state and country.

The video illustrates the changes that happen to “Sally,” after her car was struck by another vehicle operated under the influence of alcohol. Sally sustained critical injuries including a punctured lung, a ruptured spleen, a fractured pelvis and spinal cord trauma. Orlando Regional Lucerne Hospital team members, staged scenes from the emergency room, intensive care unit, acute care unit, rehabilitation unit and nursing home.

“With the Level 1 Trauma Center, our team members are more aware than many of the aftermath of the very tragedies we are working to prevent,” said Dr. Portée. “We see firsthand what can happen when what should be a memorable event — a prom or homecoming football game — turns tragic when someone decides to use alcohol or drugs and drive or chooses to ride with someone who does. If one family is spared the early morning phone call or one person doesn’t have to have multiple surgeries for critical injuries, followed by months of rehabilitation, or one student’s mind is changed, we have exceeded our goal.”

Bradley adds, “It is important for students to realize the full scope of the tragedy of motor vehicle crashes. The sadness doesn’t end with a funeral. The lives of victims’ families, those injured and those held responsible are forever changed.”

Other scenes in the video, produced with the help of area law enforcement agencies, describe the legal process and emotional challenges faced by “Joe,” a driver facing DUI and other charges. The video project was filmed and edited by OCPS Video Services.

“Our district has a vested interest in student safety and feel a responsibility to use our time and resources to that purpose,” said Donna Ritchie, producer/director, OCPS Video Services.

Mobile Classroom Drives Cardiac Care Lessons

1/19/2005 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, FL (January 19, 2005) --- In an 18-wheeler classroom a chalkboard has been replaced with digital monitors that project colorful detailed images of the heart. The teacher is a database of typical and atypical real-life scenarios played out through a human simulator. The students – doctors, nurses, catheterization lab technicians and other clinicians – are set to learn the latest ways to diagnose and treat patients with congestive heart failure, a condition occurring when the heart muscles weaken and slowly lose their ability to properly pump blood. Nearly 5 million Americans are living with heart failure, and 550,000 new cases are diagnosed each year. The Medtronic Therapy and Procedure Training Center-Mobile Unit makes a stop at Orlando Regional Medical Center for a weeklong educational event, January 18-21, 2005. The 80-foot-long truck is equipped with two virtual catheterization labs and lessons on basic pacing, implantable cardioverter defibrillators and cardiovascular resynchronization therapy (CRT, also known as biventricular pacing). CRT, the latest technology used to treat congestive heart failure, is an intricate technique to implant a small pacemaker-type device and thread tiny wires (leads) through the heart. The pacemaker has been specially designed to stimulate both the right and the left side of the heart, causing it to beat more efficiently. CRT supports both the heart rate and reproduces the normal contraction pattern of the left ventricle – the heart’s main pumping vessel. Technology of traditional pacemakers stopped at the right side of the heart only. The mobile unit features a human simulator for practice. “We are eager to learn more about the latest advanced treatment options like CRT to add to our efforts to improve the quality of life for patients with CHF,” said Karen Reynolds, B.S.N,

Mobile Classroom Drives Cardiac Care Lessons

1/17/2005 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, FL (January 17, 2005) --- In an 18-wheeler classroom a chalkboard has been replaced with digital monitors that project colorful detailed images of the heart. The teacher is a database of typical and atypical real-life scenarios played out through a human simulator. The students – doctors, nurses, catheterization lab technicians and other clinicians – are set to learn the latest ways to diagnose and treat patients with congestive heart failure, a condition occurring when the heart muscles weaken and slowly lose their ability to properly pump blood. Nearly 5 million Americans are living with heart failure, and 550,000 new cases are diagnosed each year.

The Medtronic Therapy and Procedure Training Center-Mobile Unit makes a stop at Orlando Regional Medical Center for a weeklong educational event, January 18-21, 2005. The 80-foot-long truck is equipped with two virtual catheterization labs and lessons on basic pacing, implantable cardioverter defibrillators and cardiovascular resynchronization therapy (CRT, also known as biventricular pacing).

CRT, the latest technology used to treat congestive heart failure, is an intricate technique to implant a small pacemaker-type device and thread tiny wires (leads) through the heart. The pacemaker has been specially designed to stimulate both the right and the left side of the heart, causing it to beat more efficiently. CRT supports both the heart rate and reproduces the normal contraction pattern of the left ventricle – the heart’s main pumping vessel. Technology of traditional pacemakers stopped at the right side of the heart only. The mobile unit features a human simulator for practice.

“We are eager to learn more about the latest advanced treatment options like CRT to add to our efforts to improve the quality of life for patients with CHF,” said Karen Reynolds, B.S.N,, M.S., clinical specialist. “Hands-on CRT training will facilitate improved care for more complicated cases.”

After a week of training, team members will walk away with a greater understanding of an effective and life changing method of treating the growing number of patients with congestive heart failure.

The high-tech, hands-on learning opportunity is part of the hospital’s commitment to quality care and positive clinical outcomes explains Reynolds.

“In order to continue providing the best cardiac care to patients we have to keep up with the rapid pace of technology,” said Reynolds. “It is critical to patient outcomes that we take advantage of educational opportunities. What we learn makes the difference in someone being able to take a walk around the neighborhood, play with a grandchild or return to a favorite hobby.”

Grant Helps African Americans Hang on to Memories

1/11/2005 12:00:00 AM

Orlando, FL (January 11, 2005) --- The face of Alzheimer’s disease comes in many shades, representing people from various ethnic groups, spanning different ages and stretching across diverse socioeconomic backgrounds. In Florida though, as too often is the case with other states, African-American faces are underrepresented at memory disorder clinics. In some cases making up only 4.3 percent of patients, compared to 14.6 percent of the state’s total population.

Local health care organizations want a different look for memory disorder clinics – a look that reflects the need for services. Share the Care, Inc., The Alzheimer’s Association for Central and North Florida and the Orlando Regional Memory Disorder Clinic received a grant from the Johnnie B. Byrd Sr. Alzheimer’s Center & Research Institute to improve awareness and access to care for African Americans.

Together the organizations will host The Memory Health Fair: Promoting Healthy Memory on Thursday, January 20, from 1 to 3 p.m. at New Covenant Baptist Church, 2210 S. Rio Grande Ave., Orlando. Volunteers from the Orlando Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. will help coordinate the event. The fair offers participants a memory screening, a “brown bag” medication review, safe return registration for adults at risk of wandering and an educational workshop. Those who complete a screening will receive a gift certificate to a local grocery store.

Workshop topics include how memory loss is diagnosed, care and treatment options, ways to manage daily activities and community resources. Based on memory screening results, participants will be referred to the Memory Disorder Clinic for diagnostic evaluation and follow-up visits with social workers from the clinic and the Alzheimer’s association to help find additional resources. By joining together for the project, the organizations hope to increase the number of African Americans enrolled in the memory disorder clinic, as well as the usage of support services and awareness of memory health.

“In researching for the grant, we found statistics that show Florida’s state designated memory disorder clinics have not been very successful at reaching the African-American community,” said Mary Ellen Ort-Marvin, grant project director and executive director, Share the Care. “Of the 2,864 new patients evaluated at memory disorder clinics in Florida, from 2002 to 2003 (fiscal year), only 125 or 4.3 percent were African Americans, where as recent studies show African Americans represent 14.6 percent of the state’s total population. We believe there is a greater need for care and services.”

Traditionally, patients are referred to memory disorder clinics by their primary doctors, Ort-Marvin explains. However, research indicates African-Americans are less likely to use outpatient services such as memory disorder clinics, due to lack of health care access in general with low use of primary care doctors or other sources of medical care and income level.

“We need to try a different, more direct approach to reaching those in need in the African-American community,” said Ort-Marvin. “We plan to work with organizations in the community to visit churches, community centers and other places familiar to community residents.

”Beyond helping the Central Florida community, the groups plan to use this experience to establish a template of strategies that work well to share with clinics in other communities seeking ways to reach out to the African-American community.

MD Anderson -- Orlando Social Worker Receives State Honor

1/6/2005 12:00:00 AM

Orlando, FL (January 6, 2005) --- Michele Delafranconi, MSW and a licensed clinical social worker, with MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando was recently named Social Worker of the Year by the Florida Society of Oncology Social Workers.

Delafranconi has been a social worker with Orlando Regional Healthcare, parent company of MD Anderson – Orlando, since 1999. In 2003, she was appointed by Gov. Jeb Bush to serve a second term on the Florida Cancer Control and Research Advisory Council.

Delafranconi holds a master’s in social work from the University of Central Florida and a bachelor’s in social work from Ohio Northern University.

NSYNC Challenge for the Children Raises Money for Arnold Palmer Hospital

1/3/2005 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, FL (January 3, 2005) – Members of NSYNC along with celebrities from sports, film, television and the recording industry participated in a celebrity basketball game during the 6th Annual Challenge for the Children This year’s event raised $25,000 for programs and services at Arnold Palmer Hospital.

Members of NSYNC created the Challenge for the Children in 1999 to offer financial support to children’s hospitals and charities. Since its creation the event has raised over $475,000 for Arnold Palmer Hospital.

“We are extremely grateful to the members of NSYNC and all the celebrities who have participated in the event for their hard work and dedication to children,” said Cheryl Collins, director, event planning & major gifts, Arnold Palmer Hospital Foundation. “They have made a big difference in the lives of our patients and their families.”

Blockbuster Celebrates Arnold Palmer Hospital`s “Just a Bit Late” New Year’s Baby

1/3/2005 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, FL (January 3, 2005) – Sometime being a little late is a good thing. Gladys Michelle Alvarado arrived 20 minutes too late to be Central Florida’s first baby of the New Year, however her tardiness paid off as she was honored as Blockbuster’s® “just a bit late” New Year’s baby, an event to kick off the company’s new no late fees policy. Alvarado was born at Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children & Women at 12:21 a.m. to Miguel and Edith Alvarado weighing in at 7 pounds 15 ounces and 20 inches long.

Blockbuster® Inc.representatives Steven Wilson and Sarah Cancel delivered a BLOCKBUSTER® Baby Gift Package to the Alvarados that included a camcorder, portable DVD player, a 52-week gift card, DVDs and baby items.

“We’re very pleased to be able to honor Gladys Michelle and her family as part of our ‘no late fees’ kick off promotion,” said Steven Wilson, Blockbuster representative. “It just goes to show that it doesn’t always hurt to procrastinate.”

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Women Playing For T.I.M.E. Scores $428,000 Toward A Cure

12/17/2004 12:00:00 AM

Orlando, FL (December 17, 2004) --- A month spent on the greens has scored $428,000 for Women Playing For T.I.M.E. and breast cancer treatment programs at MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando.

Proceeds from golf and tennis tournaments will support research and patient assistance programs.

LPGA Hall of Fame golfer Judy Rankin joined more than 500 women to participate in T.I.M.E. events. Rankin, who as a young girl lost her mother to a brain tumor, spoke about her experience and shared many humorous quips about the game.

A World Golf Hall of Fame inductee, Rankin serves as an announcer for ABC and ESPN and as a contributor to Golf For Women and Golf Digest.

“Having Judy share her experiences as a professional golfer and commentator was truly a highlight of this year’s event. And, seeing the joyous faces of our event participants when the check for $428,000 was presented was memorable as well. I am so proud of these wonderful women who have made an enormous difference to our community though their generosity,” stated Dr. Clarence Brown, president/CEO, of MD Anderson – Orlando.

Led by a volunteer, all-female committee, T.I.M.E., which stands for Technology, Immediate Diagnosis, Mammography and Education, was formed in the early 1990s as a way for two friends to deal with a diagnosis of breast cancer.

Since those early days, the small grassroots effort has grown into an annual event – made up of year-round golf and tennis tournaments and other related events – that has raised nearly $6 million for breast cancer education, research and treatment at MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando.

Winners for the 2004 T.I.M.E. events are:

Golf Tournament 4-Some

Low Gross Winners

Pam Darmstadt-duPont

Sabrina Marks

Joy Marie Russo

Susan Van Roijen

Low Net Winners

Gale Hillenmeyer

Diana Ludwig

Mary Nunis

Cindy Tibbetts

Tennis Tournament

1st Place - Tammy Flint and Laurie Flaherty, Sabal Point Country Club
2nd Place - Chris Kirchner and Sally Naylor, Winter Park Racquet Club

2004 Butkus Award® Finalists Call Time Out to Visit Patients at Arnold Palmer Hospital

12/15/2004 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, FL (December 15, 2004) – College football’s Butkus Award® Finalists left the field and took to new plays as they visited patients at Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children & Women. Ahmad Brooks, University of Virginia; Matt Grootegoed, University of Southern California and Derrick Johnson, University of Texas walked a different line of scrimmage, room by room, to spread smiles, laughs and fun. “It is great meeting the kids and seeing how excited some of them get when we walk into the room,” said Brooks. “It makes us feel good that we helped brighten their day.”

The Butkus Award®, named for NFL Hall of Famer Dick Butkus, was created in 1985 by the Downtown Athletic Club of Orlando, Inc. and honors the nation’s best linebacker in college football. “We appreciate their visit every year as the kids really enjoy meeting them and having their pictures taken,” said Sheri Mosely, child life manager, Arnold Palmer Hospital. “The parents also enjoy the visit as some of them are big football fans.”

The Congenital Heart Institute at Arnold Palmer Hospital Installs Teges i-Rounds™ Solution

12/1/2004 12:00:00 AM

Orlando, FL (December 1, 2004) – Physicians at the Congenital Heart Institute at Arnold Palmer Hospital and Miami Children’s Hospital can provide patient care and perform virtual patient rounds from anywhere in the world thanks to the Teges i-Rounds Web-based and wireless hospital solution technology. The program was recently installed at the Congenital Heart Institute at Arnold Palmer Hospital providing the entire heart team with instant access to critical patient data through a single Web interface.

i-Rounds instantly generates and saves daily Web pages for every patient showing daily progress notes and vital signs. It also displays digital photos allowing physicians to visually see their patients. Additionally, it gives the congenital heart team, along with the patient’s referring physician, the ability to read catheterization and echo reports, X-ray images, lab results as well as view real-time images of the patient in the intensive care unit and intra-operative digital cardiac images within seconds. The program was created by Teges Corporation, in cooperation with a team of clinicians led by Dr. Redmond Burke, chief of pediatric cardiovascular surgery at the Congenital Heart Institute at Arnold Palmer Hospital and Miami Children’s Hospital.

“The i-Rounds application has enabled us to be one of the most synchronized and efficient pediatric cardiology programs in the world. We have connected members of our cardiac team in a unique way, which is a tremendous benefit to our patients,” explains Burke. “I can be any where in the world and log on to a protected Web site and perform virtual patient rounds so I’m in constant contact with my patients. I can also consult with other members of our congenital heart team within seconds if needed. Additionally, the program gives our team a virtual memory of every baby we care for which can be accessed at any time. This technology makes our program communication seamless despite the geographic challenge of having a two site cardiac program in Orlando and Miami. The first clinical applications of the Web based information system were pioneered by our cardiac nursing and cardiac intensive care teams at Miami Children’s and Arnold Palmer Hospitals.”

Data entry is done by designated team members and is simultaneously downloaded into the system. Access to the Web site is password restricted and data transmission is encrypted to meet the Health Information Privacy and Accountability Act (HIPAA) regulations. “By having remote access to real-time data found in patients’ Progress Notes instantly can help save lives,” explains Christine White, CEO of Teges. “i-Rounds has proven to be an effective way to bring in the expertise of medical specialists even when they’re physically located hundreds of miles apart.”
Teges Corporation™, headquartered in Coral Gables, Florida, is an emerging leader in the development of Web-based information systems for the Intensive Care Unit (ICU). Teges has developed the i-Rounds integrated clinical information system to provide clinicians instant access to critical patient data through a single Web interface. i-Rounds provides a seamless and paperless solution accessible via the Internet or Intranet. Users can view and input data whether they are using a desktop computer or a wireless handheld PDA. Teges is a privately held company and can be reached at +1 888 653-0007, email info@teges.com, or www.teges.com.

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Holiday Card Drawn As A Child Delights Adult Cancer Survivor

11/29/2004 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, FL (Nov. 29, 2004) --– In 1993 Jenny Little was not your average 12 year-old. She battled something that many children her age never have to think about – cancer.

While undergoing treatments at MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando, Jenny expressed herself through drawing and it is a good thing she did.

Now at the age of 23, her rendering of a dolphin waiting for a kiss under the mistletoe, has been chosen as the featured artist for the Children’s Art Project 2004 Holiday Collection at MD Anderson – Orlando.

“When I found out that I had been chosen my initial reaction was pure surprise,” said Jenny. “It had been so long since I had drawn the card that I couldn’t remember what it looked like. After that, I was so excited. I think my mom even cried.”

It would be hard to guess that 11 years ago Jenny battled acute lymphoma leukemia.

Now healthy, happy and engaged, Jenny is in her first year of nursing school at Cape Fear Community College in Wilmington, North Carolina. Her experiences as a cancer patient led her to contemplate a career working with other cancer patients.

“I’m glad this happened to me now, because when I was undergoing treatments life was overwhelming. Now I have the ability to appreciate how special this is,” she said.

Growing up in Altamonte Springs, Jenny attended Lake Orienta Elementary School, Milwee Middle School and “The Academy of Health Careers” at Seminole High School.

Jenny’s holiday card, “Kiss Me Dolphin,” is available at area Publix Supermarkets and the gift shops at MD Anderson – Orlando, Orlando Regional Medical Center, Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children & Women and online at www.childrensart.org. Each box contains 15 cards and sells for $12.

The Children’s Art Project began in 1974 at The University of Texas M. D.
Anderson Cancer Center in Houston and expanded to MD Anderson – Orlando in 1993.

More than $800,000 in proceeds has been raised locally through the sale of Holiday Cards at Orlando Regional Healthcare gift shops and Publix supermarkets.

In addition to scholarships, funds are provided to child life programs at Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children & Women, Nemours Children’s Clinic and Boggy Creek Gang Camp.

Brain Cancer Specialist Joins MD Anderson -- Orlando

11/22/2004 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, FL (November 22, 2004) --- Neuro-oncologist George Bobustuc, M.D., has joined the staff of MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando. The board-certified neurologist comes to MD Anderson – Orlando from The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, where he most recently completed a fellowship in neuro-oncology.

Dr. Bobustuc will oversee MD Anderson – Orlando’s neurologic specialty section for medical oncology. His clinical interests include all aspects of neuro-oncology including: promotion of new biologic treatments and adjuvant alternative treatments for chemotherapy in central nervous system tumors. Dr. Bobustuc’s research interests include the role of stem cells in new blood vessels and tumor formation.

The author of numerous articles, Dr. Bobustuc has made several presentations at the American Academy of Neurology’s annual meetings. In addition to his writing, Bobustuc taught courses at the University of Texas Southwestern in Dallas and at The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando in Houston.

Dr. Bobustuc is a member of the American Academy for Cancer Research, Society for Neuro-Oncology, American Academy of Neurology and the American Medical Association.

His medical training includes residency in neurology from the University of Texas Southwestern and University of Texas at Houston and a fellowship in neuro-oncology at The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando. He earned a medical degree from Carol Davila Medical School in Bucharest, Romania.

MD Anderson -- Orlando Welcomes New Oncologist, Dr. Julio Hajdenberg

11/22/2004 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, FL (November 22, 2004) --- Beth Israel/Harvard trained physician Julio Jose Hajdenberg has joined the staff of MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando. He will treat patients with hematological malignancies and genitourinary cancers

Most recently Dr. Hajdenberg, a medical oncologist and hematologist, served as an affiliate physician at the H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center in Tampa and as an assistant clinical professor at the University of South Florida’s College of Medicine.

“We are indeed fortunate to have attracted Dr. Hajdenberg to our cancer center. He is a very skilled physician whose specialty interests are those where we have a significant need and whose experience in the practice of oncology will add significant strength to our mission to use every available resource to defeat cancer,” said Dr. Clarence Brown, president/CEO, MD Anderson – Orlando.

Dr. Hajdenberg, who is fluent in English, Spanish and French, received his medical degree from the Universidad de Buenos Aires, Argentina. He completed an internship and residency in internal medicine at the University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey, Robert Wood Johnson Medical School/Cooper Hospital University Medical Center.

Dr. Hajdenberg fulfilled a fellowship in hematology/oncology at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center Harvard Medical School in Boston, where he served as a clinical instructor. He is board certified in internal medicine, medical oncology and hematology.

Dr. Hajdenberg has received awards from the American Association for Cancer Research and American Society of Clinical Oncology. Also, he is a fellow with the American College of Physicians.

His clinical research interests include multiple myeloma, lung, colon, breast, pancreas and ovarian malignancies and growth factors.

Tell Weight Gain To Take A Holiday Says MD Anderson -- Orlando Dietician

11/16/2004 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, FL (November 16, 2004) – Holidays are a time for family, friends and parties; they’re also a time to quickly gain a few pounds without realizing it.

Because of this ongoing battle every year, Stephanie Pullen, a registered dietician with MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando, recommends a variety of tips to keep your holidays from becoming ho-ho-hopeless.

“Many of the traditional foods we consume from Thanksgiving to New Year’s are higher in calories and fat. They can also be less nutritionally balanced than foods we would normally eat,” says Pullen. “While there’s nothing wrong with treating ourselves, overindulgence can lead to breaking healthy patterns.”
If extra calories aren’t on your wish list, try these ideas offered by Pullen Don’t stuff the bird with dressing; instead bake it in a covered casserole dish to reduce fat in the stuffing.

Use chicken or turkey broth to sauté onions & celery. Broth, in lieu of butter or margarine, makes tasty mashed potatoes too.

A fat separator device can help you skim off fat from roasting pan juices. If you need to thicken your gravy, use dry turkey gravy mix for added flavor.

Low-fat versions of canned, evaporated or milk work as a great substitute in recipes calling for high fat creams. This is good for pumpkin pie, eggnog, or fudge.

Substitute brown sugar for white sugar and halve the amount called for in recipes.

Use light or fat-free whipped topping.

Apple sauce or prune puree can be substituted for oil in baked goods, such as cranberry bread or pumpkin muffins. Be sure to use an equal amount (if the recipe calls for a half cup of oil, try a half cup of applesauce instead).

Lightly dust cakes with confectioner’s sugar rather than covering with gooey frosting.

Substitute low-fat canned cream soups in recipes, such as green bean casserole.

Start with a salad; you’ll eat less during dinner. Beware, however, of piling on extras such as croutons, cheese and dressing.

Don’t gorge on breads. Skip the rolls. Or, decide whether you prefer stuffing, sweet potatoes or mashed potatoes.

Go ahead and sample and enjoy small helpings of everything. It’s alright to return for seconds on raw or steamed vegetables and fruits as they contain fewer calories. Portions are the key.

Having pie? Eat the filling and skip the high-fat crust. If it’s too tempting, cover the crust with a napkin so you won’t be tempted to nibble.

These tips to help you through holiday parties also work well for social gatherings all year long.

Before The Party

Start before you leave the house. Wear pants or skirts that already have a snug waistband. If you’re tempted to overindulge, you’ll know it quickly.

Eat before you arrive. This way you’ll be full and you won’t have to worry about having anything stuck in your teeth.

During The Party

Don’t stand by the buffet table while socializing. You’ll munch away and not even realize it.

Keep alcoholic beverages to a minimum. Instead drink seltzer, soda or water with a twist of lime. Your head will thank you in the morning.

Size matters. A handful of miniature chocolates or homemade cookies look innocent enough. However, those calories add up quickly if you don’t stop after a few. Smaller isn’t necessarily better if you eat a platter full of sweets.

The final piece of advice Pullen says is exercising. Go for a brisk walk, at least 20 to 40 minutes, after a big meal and keep on exercising all year long.

Orlando Regional Healthcare steps forward for healthy hearts

10/22/2004 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, FL (October 22, 2004) — Orlando Regional Healthcare team members are setting the pace in the fight against heart disease and stroke. As a Platinum Sponsor in the 2004 Greater Orlando Heart Walk, the hospital joins the local American Heart Association and other community organizations in the annual walk at 7:30 a.m. on Saturday, Oct. 23, at Loch Haven Park in Orlando.

“Cardiovascular disease remains the leading cause of death for men and woman,” said John Hillenmeyer, President/CEO Orlando Regional Healthcare and co-chair of this year’s event. “Participating in the Heart Walk is an opportunity for us to help educate the community about prevention, warning signs, symptoms and what to do in the event of a heart attack, and to support heart healthy community initiatives.”

Teams like the “Heeling Heart,” the “Vivacious Ventricles,” “The Arrhythmics,” the “Radiology Images,” “Beta Blockers” and “The Pacers,” and others with heartfelt names, represent nearly 1,000 walkers on 80 teams from Orlando Regional’s downtown and community hospitals. The hospital has raised over $60,000, the highest amount in the Orlando Heart Walk’s history.

“Our participation and enthusiasm is the highest ever,” said Anna Soike, community relations representative. “Add to that a little friendly competition and we have a wonderful, fun way to help the community reach a common goal.”

In addition to walking for the cause, Orlando Regional Wellness Center team members will lead warm-up sessions for all walkers. The hospital will also host a booth with demonstrations on the use of an automated external defibrillator (AED).

For more information about the Heart Walk, contact the local American Heart Association at (407) 843-1330.

Surgical Oncology Nursing Operations Manager Named For MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando

10/21/2004 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, FL (October 21, 2004) --- Lori Tabbutt, RN, has been promoted to surgical oncology nursing operations manager for MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando. Most recently she served as assistant nurse manager and helped open the unit in February 2003.

Tabbutt, an Orlando Regional Healthcare employee since 1999, was a staff nurse on the surgical/ trauma unit at Orlando Regional Medical Center from 1999 to 2003.

Also, Tabbutt was recognized as Orlando Regional’s Champion of the Quarter, an award given to outstanding employees, for January through March 2002.

Tabbutt holds an associate’s degree in nursing from Seminole Community College. Currently, she is pursing a bachelor’s in nursing from Florida Southern College in Orlando and is a member of the Oncology Nurse Society.

Arnold Palmer Hospital Breaks Ground on New Children’s Emergency Department & Trauma Center

10/18/2004 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, FL (October 18, 2004) – Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children & Women treated its growing pains by breaking ground for the new Bert Martin’s Champions for Children Emergency Department & Trauma Center on Saturday, October 16. During the ceremony, a former pediatric trauma patient and a community philanthropist helped the hospital’s administrator and professional golfer Arnold Palmer unveil the project’s rendering. The 23,500-square-foot Children’s Emergency Department & Trauma Center, will house 33-beds including 16 fast track (for minor conditions and injuries), 13 emergency and four trauma bays. The construction project will cost $11 million and is almost entirely funded by philanthropic support. The opening is anticipated for late 2005 or early 2006.

“We are very excited about this project and moving our pediatric emergency and trauma services from the current location at Orlando Regional Medical Center (ORMC) to Arnold Palmer Hospital,” said Kathy Swanson, vice president/executive director of Arnold Palmer Hospital. “We want to thank the Champions for Children committee and the many donors who made this project a reality. Their gifts will help save children’s lives every day for generations to come.”

The Bert Martin’s Champions for Children Emergency Department & Trauma Center will include state-of-the-art diagnostic equipment and a helipad with a connector to Arnold Palmer Hospital and the Hospital for Women & Babies. Design features include a serene setting through the use of warm, soothing colors and tones, private treatment rooms with televisions, family crisis and bereavement rooms, a dedicated children’s play area with televisions and internet connections in the lobby seating area.

Arnold Palmer Hospital has the only Level 1 Pediatric Trauma Center (currently part of
ORMC’s Level 1 Trauma Center) and Emergency Department in Central Florida. More than 25,000 children a year seek care in ORMC’s Emergency Department while approximately 750 children are treated in the Trauma Center.

Area Merchants Get Into The Pink Of Things To Support Breast Cancer Awareness

10/1/2004 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, FL (October 1, 2004) --- Several Central Florida businesses will help raise awareness and funds for breast cancer research and education at MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando.

Throughout October, Panera Bread will offer a taste of awareness with pink ribbon bagels throughout their Central Florida locations. For each tasty treat, feature cherry chips and cranberries, that the bakery sells, a quarter will be donated to Women Playing For T.I.M.E. ®, which in turn benefits MD Anderson – Orlando.
Brighton Collectibles, in the
Mall at Millennia, will donate $10 for each Think Pink Too bracelet sold - $40 retail value –T.I.M.E.

For each test drive taken from Saturday, Oct. 9, through Monday, Oct. 11, The Volvo Store in Winter Park will contribute $10 to T.I.M.E., in support of MD Anderson – Orlando.

Since 1993, T.I.M.E. has raised awareness and funds for breast cancer research, education and treatment at MD Anderson – Orlando. The volunteer group was formed after two golf buddies discovered one had been diagnosed with breast cancer. Since then, the group has worked tirelessly to educate Central Florida women about the disease and has raised nearly $6 million dollars in the process.

LPGA Hall-of-Fame Golfer Gets Into Swing Of Things For Breast Cancer

9/14/2004 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, FL (September 14, 2004) – Judy Rankin, ABC and ESPN golf commentator, a contributor to Golf For Women and Golf Digest and an LPGA Tour Hall of Fame and World Golf Hall of Fame inductee, will share her perspective and experiences of the game at the 12th annual Women Playing For T.I.M.E. golf tournament luncheon, Tuesday, October 26, at Lake Nona Club. “We invited Judy not only because she is so respected for all of her accomplishments, but also because she can relate to establishing a vision, making a plan and delivering-no matter the hurdles,” said Gale Hillenmeyer, a member of T.I.M.E.’s all-female board of directors.

"I am so impressed with the efforts of Women Playing for T.I.M.E. The magnitude of their results is really quite remarkable against a cause I have been exposed to both with players on the LPGA tour as well as personal friends. I am very much looking forward to being with this group of dedicated women."

Rankin is one of the most respected figures in golf and accomplished golfers in LPGA history. She is also one of the most popular and widely respected commentators in golf today.

Rankin has been involved in golf since the age of 6 and her passion and commitment to the game continue to inspire and entertain fans around the world. She is currently a member of the ABC Sports golf broadcast team, a position she has held since 1984.

LPGA Commissioner Ty Votaw summarized her best, “Judy Rankin represents all that is good about the LPGA and the game of golf.”

“This is what makes her one of golf’s best and most visible ambassadors.”

T.I.M.E –- which stands for Technology, Immediate Diagnosis, Mammography, and Education -– began in 1993 as a volunteer organization dedicated to making a positive impact of women facing breast cancer. The all-female group, led by a 47-member board of directors, has raised more than $5 million for breast cancer education, research and treatment programs at MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando.

The tournament, October 26 – 27, held annually at the Lake Nona Club, will bring in hundreds of golf enthusiasts from Florida, looking to offer their help in generating funds for breast cancer education and research.

T.I.M.E.’s contributions to MD Anderson – Orlando include establishing a Breast Diagnostic Center and most recently, assisting with the purchase of helical tomotherapy, the most advanced form of intensity modulated radiation therapy (IMRT). MD Anderson – Orlando was one of the first cancer centers in the nation to offer tomotherapy and among the first to use it to treat breast cancer.

Advice To Help Children Cope With Hurricanes

9/1/2004 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, FL(Sept. 1, 2004) --– With the destruction left behind from Hurricane Charley and Hurricane Frances looming off the coast, it`s important to help your children cope.

“Children often have a hard time understanding the impact of a natural disaster, so it is extremely important to be honest and calm when dealing with them,” said Amanda Montgomery, a licensed clinical social worker with Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children & Women.

“They`re very sensitive and can pick up the emotions of the adults around them,” she elaborated.

After the effects of Charley, Montgomery saw the impact the storm had on many people.

She recommends the following to help children cope should another hurricane strike:

Demystify a hurricane by explaining it in very basic terms, such as a powerful storm that forms at sea and consists of strong winds and rain.
Encourage children to talk about their feelings, but don’t force them. Children often deal with feelings in ways other than talking. Offer other ways to express their feelings, such as art or writing.
Remove the blame. Tell them they did nothing to cause bad things to happen.
Limit your children’s exposure to adult discussions. Children can easily misunderstand your conversation.
Involve your children in preparations. This allows them to feel like they can do something to help. Even young children can become involved in preparing their home, as long as it is an appropriate task.
We are an information society and hurricane coverage is on everything from the television to the internet. Be sensitive to how much your child sees and discuss with older children what they may be finding on their own. Preferably seek out information together.
Get together a supply of distractions -- toys for children in case of a power outage, such as board games, bubbles or coloring books. It can be hard to occupy a child without electricity, so be prepared ahead of time.
Be concrete in your explanations. For example, “We are going to grandma’s house to be safe from the storm.” This helps them understand the “why” of your actions.
Be realistically reassuring and truthful about how long you will be gone from your home during the storm.
Keep family members together and find a safe place for your pets. Children feel safer with the entire family unit.

Epilepsy Monitoring Unit plugs in to technology to diagnose disease

8/30/2004 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, FL (August 30, 2004) — Neurologists at Orlando Regional Lucerne Hospital are logging on to technology to unravel the mystery of seizures. The hospital’s new Epilepsy Monitoring Unit is helping neurologists diagnose seizures, locate the part of brain where seizures occurs and determine the best course of treatment for patients more efficiently and effectively.

“There are an estimated 40,000 to 80,000 people in the Orlando area with seizures,” said Dr. Jane Boggs, director of epilepsy and brain monitoring/neurology . “The sooner we are able to identify the problem, develop a plan and begin treatment, the sooner patients are able to return to their life’s activities.”

XLTEK, incorporates some of the latest software and computer technology in epilepsy monitoring, allowing doctors to keep a close eye on patients during a three to five day hospital stay in the unit. Beyond the traditional finds – a bed, a television and phone – rooms in the unit are equipped with cameras, a computer station, a two-way intercom system and padded bed rails. When patients arrive, special scalp electrodes are attached to measure brain activity. They are then free to move about the room. Cameras stream live, digital video to a nearby control room where technologists view the patients’ activities along with synchronized EEG brain wave readings. The cameras show the physical happenings, while the EEG shows brain activity.

“During their hospital stay, we encourage patients to bring books and magazines to read, watch their favorite television and VCR shows, solve crossword puzzles, or take part in other hobbies and activities they would normally do at home,” said Dr. Boggs. “We want patients to go about their normal routine as much as possible, so that we see what is happening before, during and after an event which may or may not be a seizure. This helps us examine the whole picture and discover if an event was triggered by light, sound, sleeplessness or other external factors.”

Because patients are in a hospital setting, caregivers are available when a seizure occurs.

“Having seizures can be a scary experience for patients and their loved ones,” said Dr. Boggs. “The benefit of monitoring a patient in a hospital is that a health care team is immediately available to provide medical care if needed.”

After an analysis, doctors can determine if a patient’s treatment plan would include medication or surgery.

“With the new unit, we are able to monitor more patients and analyze data using a more efficient, effective method,” said Dr. Boggs. “With the unit, we can review raw data and reprocess specific elements of data in order to identify specific abnormalities, usually in a little over an hour, compared to slower analysis taking hours, or reviewing only intermittent samples with less sophisticated monitoring methods.”

XLTEK technology also allows the images and brain wave monitoring to be reviewed by neurologists away from the hospital, by direct modem connection or even recorded on CD-Rom for easy transport to share with referring doctors.

A Place Like Home

8/24/2004 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, FL (August 24, 2004) —When a heart attack, emergency surgery, motor vehicle crash or other illness or injury turns a vacation or business trip into a hospital stay, patients are not the only ones needing care. As treatment for the patient begins, family members try to balance thoughts of concern for their loved ones conditions, with questions of what to do about shelter, food, transportation and other needs. The new Cynthia C. & William E. Perry Pavilion at Orlando Regional Sand Lake Hospital will help with answers. The new 7,600 square-foot, two-story hospitality addition will be a home away from home for families of out-of-town hospital patients.

Sand Lake Hospital – located in the heart of the most popular tourism corridor and one of the most popular convention sites in the world – serves the emergency and other medical needs of more non-Central Florida residents than any other hospital in the area. Nearly one-third of its annual emergency department visits represent visitors.

“In planning this project, we asked ourselves, what it would be like to be in a community where you don’t live and you or a loved one sustains an injury or suffers an illness that requires hospitalization,” said Mark Schaefer, executive director, Orlando Regional Sand Lake. “Some of us can only imagine, while some of us know firsthand how tough the situation can be. On any given day, for 30 patients and their family members, this scenario becomes their reality. We want to be able to provide a comfortable environment when the need arises.”

The pavilion, which is connected to the south side of the hospital, has 12 guestrooms, including two family suites.

“Because we are attached to the hospital, family members are just a few feet away from their loved ones,” said Cheryl Cyr, assistant manager, Perry Pavilion. “Being so close allows family to check in and visit day or night and even help with care when possible.”

Other pavilion comforts include a television, DVD/VCR player for each guest room and a family gathering room for sharing meals and social time; a children’s activity room with games and computers; laundry rooms; a health resource center/library with health information; a meditation garden; wall and tiered fountains; covered patio, benches and a family park with gazebo.

Creating such a warm and inviting environment for families has been a longtime commitment for Bill and Cindy Perry, who have led the hospitality initiative at Sand Lake Hospital.

“When a loved one needs medical care on vacation or business, the family needs a place to stay and they want to be near their family member,” said Bill Perry. “In 1999, we had the opportunity to support two overnight rooms at the hospital to make this possible. Though the rooms have made a difference in the lives of many, more help was needed.”

But Bill and Cindy were looking for ways to help even more.

“When we learned about the plans for a pavilion, we felt this was our opportunity to make difficult times easier to bear for an even greater number of families,” said Cindy Perry. “We see the pavilion as a place of peace and love.”

Years ago the two began their commitment to hospitality after a lonely experience they endured when their first son was born. Cindy’s parents had to drive hours to reach the hospital and were only allowed a one hour visit. Because there wasn’t a hospitality house available, they would have to take the long ride home. Bill and Cindy’s hospitality gifts include rooms at Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children & Women, furnishings for the Hubbard House on Orlando Regional’s downtown campus and the Cynthia C. & William E. Perry Chapel at MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando. In 2004, Cindy and Bill received Orlando Regional Healthcare Foundation’s highest honor, the Spirit of Philanthropy Award, which recognizes individuals associated with Orlando Regional who illustrate the true spirit of philanthropy in the Central Florida.

In addition to the major contributions of Bill and Cindy Perry, the Perry Pavilion was supported by hospital team members, the hospital medical staff, personal gifts from individuals, the business community, the hospitality industry and others. “It’s no coincidence the word hospital is found inside the word hospitality,” said Peggy Smith, director of hospitality, Orlando Regional. “Often times, hospital staff members become as much a part of the family support system as they are a part of the medical team. The hospitality found at the Perry Pavilion is a reflection of the care and commitment of our team members and the community.”

MD Anderson -- Orlando Nurses Author Protocols In Nursing Book

8/24/2004 12:00:00 AM

Orlando, FL (August 24, 2004) --- Five nurses with MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando have recently authored protocols for the book “Telephone Triage for Oncology Nurses” from the Oncology Nursing Society.

Over the past decade, caring for cancer patients has shifted from in-hospital treatment to an outpatient setting. Telephone calls have become an everyday function of nursing care as patients call for advice or counseling before requesting an appointment.

The MD Anderson – Orlando nurses’ protocols, selected from hundreds across the United States, were designed to be a resource for cancer nurses who are learning the telephone nursing role as well as a guide for experts who are developing a formalized telephone nursing practice.

MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando Announces Appointments To Medical Oncology Team

8/20/2004 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, FL (August 20, 2004) --- Alfred D. Jenkins, M.D., and Greg Pennock, M.D. have joined the staff of MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando.

"As the number of patients coming for their care at MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando continues to increase, the addition of quality physicians such as Drs. Jenkins and Pennock to our staff allows us to assure those patients and their families that we will continue to provide the very best medical care possible,” said Dr. Clarence H. Brown, III, president/CEO of MD Anderson – Orlando.

“In the very near future, we will announce the addition of several new members to our medical staff, each of whom will bring a special expertise to the cancer center,” he elaborated.

Dr. Jenkins, whose specialty is gynecological cancers, is board eligible in gynecologic oncology. He has received training to perform advanced laparoscopic surgery for uterine cancer and fertility-sparing surgery for cervix cancer, procedures not available in most centers.

Dr. Jenkins graduated summa cum laude with a biology degree from Furman University. He earned a medical degree from the University of South Carolina, also where he completed a residency in obstetrics and gynecology. He fulfilled a fellowship in gynecologic oncology at The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando in Houston.

Additionally, he has been published in several professional journals including the Journal of Maternal-Fetal Medicine and the International Journal of Oncology.

Dr. Pennock, who is certified in internal medicine and medical oncology, will specialize in thoracic (lung), head and neck and gastrointestinal cancers. Most recently he held privileges at several Pennsylvania hospitals and served as a consulting staff physician with the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center Horizon Hospital. A magna cum laude graduate from Texas A&M University, Dr. Pennock earned a medical degree from the University of Texas Medical Branch in Galveston. He completed an internship in internal medicine at the Tulane School of Medicine in New Orleans and received additional training through an internal medicine residency at Allegheny General Hospital in Pittsburgh. He fulfilled a fellowship in hematology and oncology at the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center.

Dr. Pennock’s research interests include serving as a co-investigator on various projects at the University of Pittsburgh Cancer Institute.

Orlando Regional Healthcare Wins 5 FPRA State Image Awards

8/11/2004 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, FL (August 11, 2004) --- Orlando Regional Healthcare was recently honored with three Golden Image and two Judges’ awards at the Florida Public Relations Association’s (FPRA) Annual Golden Image Awards Banquet in St. Petersburg for the best public relations programs.

"It is an honor to be recognized by our public relations peers for the efforts we put into communicating effectively with our patients, the media and our community," said Barbara Stuart, vice president of marketing and service excellence for Orlando Regional. “We are extremely proud of our team members for their accomplishments.”

Orlando Regional received the following:

Golden Image Awards

Annual Report -- Orlando Regional Healthcare Careholder’s Report 2003 – Susan Brown, Betsy Culpepper, Dina Mack

Written Speech -- Building a Legacy: The New Hospital for Women & Babies Announcement Speeches – Betsy Culpepper

Video News Release -- MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando: Changing The Shape of Cancer Care – Michelle Lynch

Judges’ Award

Other Public Relations Programs -- MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando Becomes Center Court for Wimbledon Champion – Michelle Lynch
Crisis Communications -- Orlando Regional Healthcare Trauma Communication Plan – Betsy Culpepper, Susan Brown, Dana Loncar, Sabrina Williams

MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando Doctor Receives State Honor

8/3/2004 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, FL (August 3, 2004) --- Governor Jeb Bush has appointed Dr. Clarence Brown, president/CEO of MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando, to a two-year term for the newly created Florida Cancer Council effective immediately.

Created by the legislature in July, the council was established within the Department of Health for the purpose of making Florida a center of excellence for cancer research. The council – comprised of the leaders of Florida’s major cancer centers, public and private agencies, professional associations and community members throughout the state – will represent cancer centers, hospitals and patient groups within Florida.

In 2001, Dr. Brown was appointed as chairman of the Cancer Control and Research Advisory Board (C-CRAB) by Gov. Bush for a one-year term. C-CRAB was created by the Florida Legislature in 1979 to advise the governor, the state Legislature and state agencies on cancer control issues. He has been a member of the council and its executive committee since 1994.

Additionally, Dr. Brown is actively involved in the Florida Dialogue on Cancer, a collaboration between the presidents, directors and CEOs of hospitals, research centers, universities, professional medical groups, community-based organizations, minority-based organizations, private business groups and others as well as government officials.

A medical oncologist, Dr. Brown serves as an adjunct professor of medicine in the Department of Blood and Marrow Transplantation at the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando in Houston. He has published numerous articles from his studies on blood platelets, bone marrow growth factors, and various cancers.

Small Incisions Make a Big Difference in Hip Replacement

7/29/2004 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, FL (July 29, 2004) --- Two short hours and two tiny incisions later, patients are walking around the orthopedic nursing unit at Orlando Regional Medical Center (ORMC) after having their hips replaced through a new procedure - the Minimally Invasive Solutions™ (MIS™) 2-Incision hip replacement technique. Dr. Jeffrey Rosen, an orthopedic surgeon, is the only doctor in Orlando approved to perform the procedure. Dr. Rosen practices with Orlando Orthopaedic Center and Orlando Regional.

"MIS 2 is a dramatic change in the way hip replacement is done,” said Dr. Rosen. “This new development will revolutionize hip replacement surgery, much as arthroscopic surgery has done for knee surgery.”

To perform the procedure, Dr. Rosen is able to use the same clinically proven implants used in traditional hip replacements. Specialized instruments allow him to see and access the hip joint through a much smaller incision area with the ability to separate instead of cutting muscle. The results - smaller, more cosmetic incisions (usually only 1 ½ to 2 inches), less blood loss, much less post-operative pain, a shorter hospital stay and a faster recovery time.

"Patients are amazed at how soon they are able to move around after surgery," said Susan Crowley, ORMC orthopedics nursing operations manager. "Some patients have a 23-hour observation stay, while some go home in a day or two.” Patients typically begin walking with a physical therapist, within 24 hours of surgery.

Before now, hip replacement surgeries were done through a 6- to 8-inch incision that involved cutting muscles and tendons. Typically patients would stay in the hospital for four to five days with a full recovery taking up to several months. MIS 2 is an attractive offer for many patients.

“We have found over recent years that many of our total hip patients are younger, more active, and many are still working,” said Dr. Rosen. “Those patients who are retired are often leading very active and productive lives. The MIS 2 procedure represents a method in which we can significantly shorten the 3 to 6 month recovery period associated with traditional total hip replacement surgery.”

MIS 2 is an option for many patients who are candidates for traditional hip replacement. Some factors that may rule them out include obesity, a recent history of blood clot, prior replacement of the same hip and other unstable medical conditions.

The procedure may be used to replace hips in cases such as end-stage arthritis, where conservative measures are not beneficial. End-stage arthritis, characterized by intolerable pain and limited activity, could result from many conditions, including osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, old hip injury or fracture or congenital hip disease.

Orlando Regional Receives Five Statewide Mark of Excellence Awards

7/21/2004 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, FL (July 21, 2004) --- Orlando Regional Healthcare’s media relations and marketing teams recently took home five awards at the 2004 Florida Society for Healthcare Public Relations and Marketing Mark of Excellence Awards, sponsored annually by the Florida Hospital Association.

The awards recognize organizations for outstanding health communications efforts. Founded in 1927, the Florida Hospital Association is a not-for-profit association representing all hospitals throughout the state.

The honors and team members include:

Crisis Communications:

Michelle Lynch for MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando – MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando Becomes Center Court for Wimbledon Champion

Betsy Culpepper, Susan Brown, Dana Loncar and Sabrina Williams for Orlando Regional Healthcare – Trauma Communication Plan

Electronic Communications:

Michelle Lynch for MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando – Changing the Shape of Cancer Care

Health Information & Community Partnerships:

Michelle Lynch for MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando – MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando & American Association for Cancer Research: Saving Lives Through Education

Writing:

Betsy Culpepper for Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children & Women – Building a Legacy: The Hospital for Women and Babies - Announcement Speeches

MD Anderson Again Named Nation`s Top Cancer Hospital

7/2/2004 12:00:00 AM

HOUSTON (July 2, 2004) --- For the third consecutive year and fourth time in five years, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando is ranked the nation`s top cancer hospital in U.S. News & World Report`s "America`s Best Hospitals" survey, published in the magazine`s July 12 issue.

In addition to the number one ranking in cancer, three MD Anderson specialties are ranked among the nation`s best, including gynecology (5), ear, nose and throat (10) and urology (10). According to U.S. News & World Report, only 177 of the nation`s 6,012 hospitals ranked in even a single specialty this year.

"To be named the best in cancer care recognizes the commitment and skills that our faculty, employees and volunteers bring to our patients every day," says John Mendelsohn, M.D., the institution`s president. "New discoveries and knowledge continue to advance ways to treat this devastating disease. We are proud to be ranked number one for our accomplishments, and are grateful for the progress we have been able to make for our patients and for bettering cancer treatment worldwide."

MD Anderson has ranked as one of the top two hospitals in cancer care since the magazine began its annual survey 15 years ago in 1990. It has ranked at the top of the survey in 2004, 2003, 2002, 2000 and 1992.

The survey is conducted for U.S. News & World Report using rigorous criteria developed by the National Opinion Research Center at the University of Chicago. The rankings are based upon a survey of board-certified physicians around the country, patient survival data and various indicators such as the ratio of nurses to inpatient beds, key technologies and services available to patients, and Magnet status determined by the American Nurses Credentialing Center.

Put Safety In Your Sparkle This 4th Of July

6/23/2004 12:00:00 AM

“ ORLANDO, FL (June 23, 2004) – As we gear up for the July 4th holiday with backyard barbecues and fireworks, emergency room and critical care staff at Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children & Women prepare for one of their busiest days of the year.

“Last year, we saw several patients with fireworks-related injuries and some were severe enough to require our critical care services,” said Dr. Lawrence Spack, pediatric critical care intensivist at Arnold Palmer Hospital and Nemours Children’s Clinic Orlando. “Children, especially those in their adolescent years, are fascinated with fireworks and decide to have their own fireworks show at home. This is when most injuries occur because proper safety precautions are not taken.”

Two-thirds of all fireworks injuries in the United States occur in the days surrounding the July 4th holiday, according to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC). Children ages 10 to 14 years historically have the highest injury rate, and most of these injuries occur in homes. Fireworks have been known to tip over or prematurely explode, even when they are used correctly.

The CDC reports that fireworks-related injuries most frequently involve hands and fingers (32%), eyes (21%) and the head and face (17%). About two-thirds of all fireworks-related injuries are burns.

If your child is burned in a fireworks-related incident, you don’t have to call 911 unless it is an extensive burn or injury,” Dr. Spack said. “Most importantly don’t panic. Take a good look at it and call your family physician.”

Dr. Spack offers a few tips for treating a burn, including:

Remove any clothing covering the burn, and make sure the area is clean.
Immerse the burn in cool water. It will relieve some of the pain and start to treat the burn.
Get it covered. The earlier you can protect the burn from bacteria, the better it will heal, and do not pop blisters.
Call your doctor. Most burns just need time to heal.

###

Health Care Veteran Lauded For Nursing Excellence

6/15/2004 12:00:00 AM

Orlando, Fla. (June 15, 2004) – Anne Peach, R.N. and chief operating officer at MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando, recently received the 2004 Nursing Excellence Recognition Award from the Florida Nurses Association (FNA) District 8 of Orlando. She was selected for her accomplishments as a nurse executive.

A 28-year health care veteran, Peach joined Orlando Regional Healthcare, parent company of MD Anderson – Orlando, in 1983 as an education coordinator.

She has held many positions during her tenure, most notably as director of corporate education, chairperson of the corporate nursing council and as executive director for Orlando Regional Sand Lake Hospital. Also, she served as a faculty member for the University of Central Florida’s Department of Nursing. She has been active professionally in nursing in Florida for the past 20 years including serving on the boards of the Florida Nurses Association and the American Nurses Foundation.

In 2001, Peach was recognized by the Orlando Business Journal as one of the Top 100 Most Influential People in Central Florida and in 1999 she received a Summit Award from the Central Florida Women`s Resource Center for her exceptional volunteer and professional achievements. In 1990 she received a special recognition award from FNA for demonstrating leadership, special knowledge in the nursing role and for support of the organization.

In addition to teaching, Peach has published several articles in Brunner and Suddath’s Textbook of Medical and Surgical Nursing.

Representatives from Arnold Palmer Hospital to Carry 2004 Athens Olympic Torch

6/14/2004 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, FL (June 14, 2004) –More than 480 torchbearers will take part in the American leg of the ATHENS 2004 Olympic Torch Relay, three of whom will represent Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children & Women in the historic run on June 17, in St. Louis, Missouri and June 18, in Atlanta, Georgia.

John Bozard, president, Arnold Palmer Hospital Foundation; Chris Stowers, director of development, Arnold Palmer Hospital Foundation; and Zach Kallenbach, director of the national advisory council, Arnold Palmer Hospital Foundation were chosen to be torchbearers by Samsung Electronics, a presenting sponsor of the 2004 Olympic Torch Relay. Stowers and Kallenbach will run Thursday, June 17, in St. Louis while Bozard will carry the torch Friday, June 18, in Atlanta.

“This is a very special honor not only for us personally but for everyone at Arnold Palmer Hospital,” Bozard explains. “We are thrilled to be part of this historic event and thank Samsung Electronics for this opportunity and sharing the Olympic spirit with us.”

For the past three years Samsung Electronics has honored Arnold Palmer Hospital for the care it provides to thousands of infants, children and women in the Central Florida area through its Four Seasons of Hope national goodwill program.

Resynchronization Devices Help Patients With Heart Failure

5/28/2004 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, FL (May 28, 2004) --- For years, doctors have believed cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT) could make a difference in the lives of patients with congestive heart failures – reducing death rates, hospital visits and improving the quality of their lives. Results from a recent study, published in the New England Journal of Medicine (May 20), support the theory.

Orlando Regional Medical Center and doctors from Orlando Heart Center participated in the national COMPANION trial sponsored by Guidant. The trial measured the effectiveness of CRT in patients with late stage congestive heart failure.

CRT uses a pacemaker that has been modified to stimulate both the right and the left chambers of the heart, causing it to beat more efficiently. The left ventricle of the heart is the main pumping chamber for the body. Traditionally pacemakers could only support heart rate, but not reproduce the normal contraction pattern of the left ventricle.

In the study, there was a 34 percent reduction in death or hospitalization in the group receiving the CRT device without the defibrillator. There was a 40 percent reduction in death or hospitalization in the group with the CRT device with a defibrillator, which can shock the heart in the event of an uncontrolled rhythm. The two groups receiving a device were compared to a third group which did not receive a device. All three groups received medications, such as beta-blockers or diuretics.

“With this study, we have been able to demonstrate the clear benefits of using resynchronization therapy and have demonstrated the additional benefit of defibrillator therapy in this group of very sick patients,” said Dr. Mel Johnson, principal investigator for the Orlando site.

“CRT is another valuable tool in the doctor’s bag to help treat patients who have weak hearts.” Dr. Johnson is a member of the Orlando Heart Center and practices at Orlando Regional.

The COMPANION Trial (Comparing of Medical Therapy, Pacing and Defibrillation in Chronic Heart Failure), with over 1,500 participants, is the largest heart failure device trial ever undertaken and the first heart failure device trial designed to determine if the devices could reduce the risk of death and hospitalization of patient with late stage heart failure. Together, Orlando Heart Center and Orlando Regional Medical Center represented one of 128 sites in the United States and the only one in Orlando.

Nearly 5 million Americans are living with heart failure, and 550,000 new cases are diagnosed each year. Congestive heart failure is a condition occurring when the heart muscles weaken and slowly lose their ability to properly pump blood. Risk factors for heart failure include heart attack, clogged arteries, high blood pressure and diabetes. Symptoms include fatigue, shortness of breath, chest congestion and difficulty completing everyday tasks.

Traditional options for patients with heart failure include lifestyle changes to ease symptoms, medications to restore proper heart function or surgery to correct a heart valve defect.

Brighten Your Future: Stay Out of the Sun

5/26/2004 12:00:00 AM

Think you’re immune from skin cancer? Think again. One out of every three Floridians will have skin cancer, making us the second highest ranking skin cancer state in the country says the American Cancer Society.

"Skin cancer is one of the most preventable cancers, and if caught early, it’s easy to treat," said Kim Morrison, ARNP, with the melanoma specialty section at MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando.

"However, if it’s not treated, it can spread to other parts of the body and be fatal.”

“Most of us receive 80 percent of our lifetime sun exposure by age 18. Skin damage is cumulative, so the sunburn you get this week – no matter what your age – may take 20 years or more to become skin cancer,” said Dr. Clarence Brown, president/CEO of MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando.

There’s no such thing as a healthy tan, added Brown. “In fact, it was only 30 years ago that many people incorrectly believed sunbathing was healthy and unfortunately, many still do. Long-term sun exposure and sunburns cause the vast majority of skin cancers.”

A few simple precautions can greatly reduce or eliminate your chances of getting skin cancer, as well as unsightly wrinkles with increasing age. Brown and Morrison offer these tips:

* Protect yourself and your children by minimizing sun exposure between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., when the sun’s rays are the strongest.

* Don’t be fooled by a cool or overcast day – apply UVA-UVB sunscreen (at least SPF-15) to all areas exposed to the sun at least 30 minutes before exposure.

* Reapply sunscreen after extended exposure, or after swimming or perspiring.

* Wear protective clothing that covers your body and shades your face and the back of your neck. Be sure your sunglasses block UVA and UVB rays.

* If you must be in the sun, protect yourself: Apply UVA-UVB sunscreen, at least SPF of 15, preferably those with a rating of 30 or higher, to all areas exposed by the sun.

* Avoid additional exposure to UV radiation and NEVER use a sunlamp or tanning bed.

* Visit a dermatologist annually to check for changes in your skin.

“In Florida, our lives revolve around many outdoor activities from going to the beach to fishing to playing golf,” said Morrison. “But we can be sun smart by examining our bodies for any change in our skin and visiting a dermatologist annually.”

For more information, or to receive a free mole meter, call 407-648-3800 or visit www.mdandersonorlando.org.

Care And Compassion Add Up To Countless Hours Of Giving

5/7/2004 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, FL (May 7, 2004) – The first time Susan Williamson spent a week volunteering at Camp Boggy Creek she cried. A nurse for 34 years, she was touched by the care and concern she saw other volunteers willingly share with critically ill children to make their stay at camp just like the experience of so many other campers.

“The first year I went to Camp Boggy Creek as a volunteer I didn’t really know what I was getting in to, but was just willing to help out where I could,” she said. “After that I was hooked.

For the past four years, Williamson has volunteered more than 400 hours, assisting with a week-long Sickle Cell camp. She is among eight nurses in Florida who will be honored for their efforts by Camp Boggy Creek as part of National Nurses’ Week May 6-12.

“Seeing how much joy a week at camp brings to these children is so worth it,” said Williamson. Their illnesses cause them to miss out on so much that other children their age experience. At Boggy Creek they forget about all the medical tests, monitors and tubes that have become a regular part of their lives.”

Williamson, who works with chemotherapy patients, has been a nurse with MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando since it opened in 1991. Before that she served as an oncology nurse with Orlando Regional Healthcare, MD Anderson – Orlando`s parent company for seven years.

“Just one week at camp keeps me going all year long,” she elaborated.

Located in Eustis, just 45 minutes from Orlando in Lake County, Camp Boggy Creek is a year-round camp for children, ages 7 through 16, with chronic or life-threatening illnesses

Last year, 3,242 campers and family members participated in summer and weekend camp stays. More than 138 doctors, nurses and medical staff, 63 summer counselors, 1,098 volunteers and the support of partners from all areas of health care as well as hundreds of donors come together to create a magical camp experience.

Celebrate Earth Day, Celebrate Your Health

4/19/2004 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, FL (April 19, 2004) --- When Earth Day was first born more than 30 years ago, the “big C” was rarely mentioned. With today’s advances in medicine, however, researchers are discovering the environment plays a critical role in the development, treatment and prevention of cancer.

With this in mind, Orlando Mayor Buddy Dyer and several cancer and environmental specialists will speak at an Earth Day symposium at 9 a.m., Saturday, April 24, at MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando (1400 S. Orange Ave.). The event is free and open to the public.

“When most people think of Earth Day, they don’t realize the connection between environmental factors and the role they may play in the war against cancer,” said Dr. Clarence H. Brown, president/CEO, MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando.

“Cancer has many causes, some genetic, some environmental. For example, many of our discoveries also come from the environment. The Pacific Yew, a tree in the northwestern United States, is the source for the drug Taxol, which offers hope to women diagnosed with breast and ovarian cancers. By creating a better understanding of how the environment contributes to our health, we hope this will encourage people to protect the environment and take charge of their health.”

Topics addressed at the symposium, entitled "Cancer and the Environment," include:

Environmental Pollutants and the Lungs, Dr. Roman Osornio Vargas, chief of environmental health, National University of Mexico, Mexico City.

Childhood Cancer and the Environment, Melissa Bondy, Ph.D., professor, department of epidemiology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando, Houston

The Environment and Breast Cancer, Robin Fuchs-Young, Ph.D., assistant professor of carcinogenesis, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando, Houston

Bioleaf Cleaning – The Solution Against Environmental Pollutants, Stephan Auberger, Ph.D., vice-president and project manager, Salveco, a French environmental cleaning company

Founded years ago by Dr. Oswald Saavedra, the event is presented by MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando and the Orange County Medical Society.

Generosity blossoms in the heart of a 9-year-old

4/19/2004 12:00:00 AM

St. Cloud, FL (April 19, 2004) --- Some children use their allowance to buy the latest music, electronic game, toy or fashions. Kristin Detroyer spends her allowance and the money she earns from making good grades and completing household chores, to share joy with patients at Orlando Regional St. Cloud Hospital. For nearly two years, the nine-year-old St. Cloud resident has made bouquets of roses she grows and delivers them to the hospital on a near monthly basis. On Monday, April 19, at 1 p.m. the hospital will honor Kristin at a Volunteer Appreciation Week Luncheon.

“We are always delighted when someone from our community wants to make hospital stays brighter for patients,” said Scott Clark, administrator, ancillary services. “Kristin’s kind spirit and commitment to helping others is such an inspiration and is encouraging to children and adults. Kristin epitomizes the true essence of volunteerism.”

Kristin began delivering roses shortly after her grandmother taught her to care for the delicate flowers in summer 2002.

“We were working in my rose garden and she said to me, ‘It’s sad when someone has to be in the hospital, especially on holidays. Let’s do something special with the roses,’ ” recalls Diane Adams, Kristin’s grandmother. From there the idea to share with others bloomed.

“She is a sweetheart of a girl,” said Diane. “It brings tears to my eyes to know she cares so much for people.”

These days Kristin is a pro in the garden. She fertilizes the ground, waters the bush, then watches the roses grow. At just the right time she picks the flowers, trims the stems, removes the thorns and prepares them for their vase. Kristin then attaches a note using floral stationary to pen warm well wishes – “Have a happy day,” or “Have a nice day.” Kristin delivers her rose bouquets and cards in a plastic caddy she has redecorated with the words, “Full of Flowers, by Kristin” the name of her mission. The bouquets are hand delivered to patients by hospital volunteers.

When making the bouquets and other surprises for patients, Kristin says, “I think about what face they will have when they see it. I hope they will have a happy face. I hope it makes them happy. I want to help people not worry so much. I want to help them relax.”

Kristin, having been a hospital patient before, knows how lonely a hospital stay can be.

“I was lucky my mom was there,” said Kristin. “Some people have hardly any family. I know how sad I would feel if I had no one around to talk to, especially if it was a holiday.”

She recently delivered nearly 70 rose bouquets and nearly 60 pastel colored “stuffed surprises” for Easter. The stuffed surprises were either plastic bunnies filled with sunflowers, daffodils, roses and daisies or plastic eggs filled with artificial grass and baby chicks. Hospital staff placed the surprises on patient meal trays. Kristin has also delivered stuffed animals to the hospital’s emergency department.

Kristin’s acts of kindness are felt by more than the patients who receive her gifts.

“I look up to my daughter,” said Heather Detroyer, Kristin’s mother. “Kristin teaches me how to be a better person. I see the many ways she demonstrates kindness and it makes me want to follow her lead. I’m honored to say she is my daughter.”

Kristin doesn’t have to look far to see the positive impact the special deliveries have on patients. Hanging on her bedroom door, just above her Lizzie McGuire poster, is a note from a patient thanking her for her special floral delivery. It reads in part, “I believe your prayers for the flowers carried over to me and I want to thank you. What you do is so very nice and kind. May God bless you.”

“Every time I look at it, I know I helped someone,” said Kristin.

For Kristin, knowing the roses and other gifts are making such a difference is worth far more than her allowance and earnings will allow her to spend.

When Kristin isn’t out making deliveries to the hospital, the third-grader at Michigan Elementary School (St. Cloud) is involved in many school activities and hobbies including a reading buddy program, a competitive traveling soccer team and the Girl Scout Troop #1917. Also, in her spare time for fun, Kristin tunes into home decorating and interior design television shows. These shows, along with her grandmother and mother’s creativity, help Kristin with ideas for deliveries.

Local Child Abuse Prevention Program Receives Federal Grant

3/10/2004 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, FL (March 10, 2004) – The Howard Phillips Center for Children & Families, a part of Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children & Women and Orlando Regional Healthcare, has been awarded a $250,000 federal grant from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services to measure the effectiveness of its Hearts & Hands child abuse prevention program. It was one of four programs selected from across the country.

The grant is part of the Department of Health and Human Services’ child maltreatment prevention initiative created to identify and collect information about effective and innovative child abuse prevention programs around the country. The criteria for the grant stated…“the findings from the evaluation should have a high probability of significantly advancing theory, policy, and evidence-based practice in the field [of child abuse and neglect].” This program could have strong national implications within a few years.

Florida has the second highest rate of child abuse in the nation and Orange County is consistently in the top four counties in the state for the highest number of reported abuse cases. The Hearts & Hands program was developed by child abuse prevention experts at the Howard Phillips Center to address risks to child well-being at all levels in our community—from child poverty (53.8% of children living in the city of Orlando are growing up in poverty or low income homes) and domestic violence to parenting skill through education and community support.

“We are initiating the parent/guardian-centered portion of Hearts & Hands — through a strength-based, positive parenting focus being piloted in the community within the 32811 zip code. During this phase we’ll hand out brochures and posters to residents and local businesses with helpline numbers, tips for building strong kids and relationships and ways to build support systems within your neighborhood,” explains Jill Hamilton, marketing manager at the Howard Phillips Center.

“Sometimes, if parents have not been exposed to safe, healthy ways of disciplining, or if they were never read to as a child, they tend to continue these behaviors with their own children because it’s what they know. The first step in changing behavior is setting positive, healthy norms and expectations. It’s important for parents to know that all parents need help from time to time and that stress can cause anyone to nearly break. They need to know where to get help so we are packaging that information in community-friendly terms and distributing it personally to them.”

The campaign is largely underwritten by The Dr. Phillips Foundation and uses a model called social marketing to try to shape new norms and create new behaviors around protecting children from abuse while improving the communities’ resources and the parents’ responses to the challenges of rearing and protecting children.

Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children & Women, part of Orlando Regional Healthcare, is a 281-bed facility dedicated exclusively to the needs of children and women. Located in Orlando, Arnold Palmer Hospital includes a regional center for neonatal care, maternal intensive care, pediatric intensive care and hematology/oncology services. Since 1989, more than 100,000 babies have been born at Arnold Palmer Hospital.

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Orlando Regional Sand Lake Hospital’s ER grows to meet demand

3/4/2004 12:00:00 AM

There’s more than one way to treat an emergency at Orlando Regional Sand Lake Hospital. On Sunday, March 7, Sand Lake Hospital opens its doors to more emergency medicine options in its new 44,000-square-foot emergency department. The department features a Fast Track care path for minor conditions and injuries and an Acute Care path for more serious conditions and injuries. With either treatment path, health care staff will use two triage rooms to assess patients, 44 private rooms to treat patients and a dedicated radiology department for more immediate access to diagnosis.

"In opening our new emergency department, we will bring together the latest technology and process improvements with our specialized health care team," said Mark Schaefer, executive director. “We look forward to offering the community greater access and improved efficiency care in emergency care, as well as improved privacy and confidentiality.”

The new emergency department is a much needed addition to the southwest Orlando community – which includes neighborhoods like Dr. Philips, Isleworth, Bayhill, Metrowest, Williamsburg, International Drive and major tourism areas. Just last year, emergency department visits topped 67,000 (nearly twice the intended capacity of 35,000 in the older 20-bed facility).

"The recent population growth within our 12 zip-code area is 4.5 percent,” explains Bob Snyder, ancillary services administrator. “Growth in tourism is also expected to continue. Completion of this construction project will help ensure quality emergency medicine is available to the community when it matters most.”

The digital radiology department includes a Siemens Sensation 16-Slice CT scanner, providing the latest in imaging technology. Scanning the body for a brain aneurysm, kidney stones, pulmonary embolism, abdominal blockages and other conditions will take less than half the time currently required.

“Not only will patients spend less time during a procedure, the 16-slice images offer greater detail of the condition, which helps determine the most appropriate treatment plan,” said Kathy Werndli, manager, radiology department. “By having its own CT scan, radiology room and ultrasound, the emergency department staff can diagnose in less time and begin treating patients sooner.”

The dedicated radiology department, which includes a radiology room, chest room and an ultrasound, ends the need to share imaging services with inpatients and outpatients.

Other specialties found in the new emergency department include a 6-bed observation unit.

“The unit is designated for patients requiring a longer stay, without using inpatient hospital beds,” said Phyllis Hankins, nursing operations manager, emergency department.

Staff also took extra steps to meet patient needs beyond medical treatment. Warm and cool hues of greens, blues, light and dark wood tones and more comfortable furnishings offer a home-like environment. Individual treatment rooms ease anxieties as they offer greater privacy. Televisions help pass the time in between test results or procedures. Telephones allow patient and family members to stay connected during visits. A pediatric waiting room, featuring games and toys, is available to help younger patients feel more relaxed and at ease during emergency visits. Also, guest services, which provides information and acts as a liaison for patients and medical staff, is now available 24 hours per day.

Other behind-the-scenes technology, to improve efficiency, includes the pneumatic tube system (similar to drive-thru banking) that connects the emergency department to the hospital`s pharmacy and laboratory.

In addition to the new emergency department, the construction project made way for new preoperative, surgical recovery and endoscopy units, freeing up an additional 17 beds for inpatient care.
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Orlando Regional Sand Lake Hospital hosts new ER tours

3/4/2004 12:00:00 AM

WHO:              Orlando Regional Sand Lake Hospital
WHAT:            New Emergency Department Celebration and Community Health Fair
WHEN:            10 a.m. to 2 p.m., Saturday, March 6, 2004
WHERE:          Sand Lake Hospital, 9400 Turkey Lake Road, Orlando

WHY:              For an emergency department visit worth celebrating, the southwest Orlando community is invited to tour Sand Lake Hospital’s new emergency department. The event will give community members an up close and personal look at how emergency medicine works, before doctors, nurses and other health care workers begin treating patients on Sunday, March 7. Inside the emergency department, the staff will offer tours highlighting new treatment areas and equipment to more efficiently diagnose and treat conditions. On the outside, more than 30 exhibits will showcase health care and life style services.

Additionally, special `emergency` gifts offered include educational materials on preventing emergencies and a limited supply of first aid kits. Refreshments will be served.
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MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando Names Chief of Radiophysics

3/3/2004 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, FL (March 3, 2004) --- Sanford L. Meeks, Ph.D., has been named chief of radiophysics for MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando.

At MD Anderson – Orlando, Meeks will oversee physics, dosimetry and radiation therapy.

For the past five years, Meeks served as director of physics and associate professor of radiation oncology with the University of Iowa. Before that he was an assistant professor in the neurological surgery, radiation oncology and nuclear and radiological engineering departments at the University of Florida.

Meeks holds a bachelor’s in physics from Florida Southern College, a master’s in physics from Florida State University and a doctorate degree in medical physics from the University of Florida. He received certification in therapeutic radiologic physics from the American Board of Radiology in 1997.

Meeks is a member of numerous professional organizations, including the American Association of Physicists in Medicine, American Society for Therapeutic Radiology and Oncology, American College of Radiology and the International Stereotactic Radiosurgery Society. He has served on committees and task groups for the State of Florida`s Department of Radiation Control, American Board of Radiology and the American Association of Physicists in Medicine.

Meeks has co-authored more than 100 articles, book chapters and abstracts. He is actively engaged in many research projects in collaboration with the radiosurgery/radiobiology laboratory at the University of Florida Brain Institute. His area of research expertise is image-guided radiation therapy, and his developments in this area have been supported by research grants from the Whitaker Foundation and the National Cancer Institute.

MD Anderson -- Orlando Social Worker Earns Prestigious Certification

2/27/2004 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, FL (February 27, 2004) --- Carolyn Parker, has earned the distinction of certified oncology social worker through the Association of Oncology Social Work.

She is the only oncology social worker in Central Florida and the second person in the state to earn this designation.

Parker oversees MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando’s clinical social work department and works directly with patients and their families. She has been with Orlando Regional Healthcare, MD Anderson – Orlando’s corporate parent, for 17 years.

Before joining the cancer center, she worked as a graduate field intern in patient service coordination for the American Cancer Society and as director of social services for the Americana Healthcare Center.

Parker was honored in 1996 by the Florida Society of Oncology Social Workers as the “Oncology Social Worker of the Year.” She holds a master’s in social work from Florida State University and a bachelor’s from the University of Central Florida. Additionally, she is a board-certified diplomat in clinical social work and a licensed clinical social worker.

The Association of Oncology Social Work is a non-profit, international organization dedicated to the enhancement of psychosocial services to people with cancer and their families. The organization was created in 1984 by social workers interested in oncology and national cancer organizations.

Good Cup of Tea Still Calms In Tough Times

2/18/2004 12:00:00 AM

Orlando, FL (February 18, 2004) --- In the midst of air raids on London during World War II, while bombs fell day and night upon the city, the British held to a long-standing belief that a good, strong cup of tea would cure anything that ails you.

This healing ritual has been brought to MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando in the form of high tea, an elegant, European-style teatime, offered weekly on Thursdays at 2:30 p.m.

“The ritual of tea is ancient,” said Jeanne Miller-Clark, chaplain and manager of the Mind-Body-Spirit Center. “It creates sanctuary and conjures images of home in stressful environments.”

Miller-Clark began weekly high teas at MD Anderson – Orlando shortly following the outbreak of the recent war in Iraq, calling on the calming properties of good British tea to soothe tension and anxiety in hospital staff and cancer patients.

“It helps during busy days for people to be able to stop for a moment and simply connect with another human being,” said Miller-Clark. “You’d see nurses leaning back against the wall with a cup of tea saying, ‘Boy, did I need this.’”

Trish Shooter, a nurse in outpatient chemotherapy unit at MD Anderson – Orlando, agrees. “It’s a civilized pause in the middle of a hectic day,” she said.

The program also has deeply affected the patients at MD Anderson - Orlando and Orlando Regional South Seminole Hospital, where the ritual of high tea was initially begun in 2000. Family members of former patients of South Seminole Hospital donated many of the fine porcelain teacups that are an integral part of the program.

“Many nurses use teacups dedicated to their former patients,” said Miller-Clark. “It’s a connection between them.”

High tea is offered weekly on Thursdays at 2:30 p.m. in the fifth floor day room of MD Anderson – Orlando. Over 700 people enjoy the program each month and at a recent tea, 110 patients and staff members participated.

Only homemade clotted cream and P.G. Tips brand tea are served, alongside homemade lemon curd and pound cake.

The quality of the tea is emphasized in the program, and Miller-Clark adheres to the strict rules of British tea preparation. Patients and doctors have been known to line the hallways, patiently waiting while the tea undergoes its five-minute steeping process.

Good tea has long been recognized for its healing properties, dating back to ancient Japanese and Chinese herbal teas. Tea as a social connection between people can be traced to several parts of the world besides Great Britain, including the southern United States’ relationship with iced tea.

Orlando Regional Lucerne Hospital Appoints Administrator

2/16/2004 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, FL (February 16, 2004) --- Beth Boyer Kollas, Ph.D., has been appointed administrator for ancillary services at Orlando Regional Lucerne Hospital.

Boyer Kollas joined Lucerne Hospital in 1999 as a complimentary medicine consultant. In 2000, she founded the Mind-Body-Spirit Center with the pastoral care department and in 2002 she opened the state’s first and only inpatient palliative care unit, located at Lucerne Hospital.

Boyer Kollas is active in the community where she coaches youth sports with the Orange County Soccer Club and Upward Basketball. Also, she has received many prestigious awards including the United Church of Christ’s Meck and Moss Award, Pontius Memorial Award and the Templeton Foundation Award for Spirituality in Medicine.

Boyer Kollas earned a bachelor’s in biochemistry from Elizabethtown College in Pennsylvania. She received a master’s and doctorate degree in microbiology/immunology from Penn State University College of Medicine.

Additionally, she holds a master’s of divinity from Lancaster Theological Seminary in Pennsylvania and a doctorate in counseling from LaSalle University in Philadelphia. Boyer Kollas is certified as a palliative care specialist by Lakehead University in ThunderBay, Ontario, Canada.

T.I.M.E. Out For Breast Cancer: Women Spring Into Action To Raise Awareness

2/10/2004 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, FL (February 10, 2004) --- Women Playing For T.I.M.E.® will host a one day golf tournament at 9 a.m., Monday, April 19, at Isleworth Country Club (6100 Payne Stewart Dr., Windermere, 407-876-5944).

The event, which costs $300 per player, features a gorilla format with pairings made by the pro shop committee. Each participant will receive breakfast and lunch, drinks and use of a golf cart and caddy. Proceeds from the tournament will benefit helical tomotherapy and breast cancer research programs at MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando. To register or to learn more, call Sandy Layne at 321-843-4069.

Since 1993, T.I.M.E. (Technology, Immediate Diagnosis, Mammography and Education), has raised more than $5 million. The all-woman event, founded by Sheila Solomon (1941-2000) and Elaine Lustig, began in 1993 as a grassroots organization of volunteers dedicated to conquering breast cancer.

T.I.M.E. has been responsible for establishing a state-of-the-art breast cancer screening, diagnostic and treatment center; educational outreach programs to raise awareness about breast cancer; funding research for prevention, treatment and a cure for breast cancer; and raising hope for thousands of women afflicted by breast cancer.

First Baby Born At New Centre For Women’s Health

2/4/2004 12:00:00 AM

CLERMONT, FL (February 4, 2004) --- On Monday, February 2, the maternity staff at the Centre for Women’s Health at South Lake Hospital welcomed the first baby born in the new facility. Brandon Ryan Thayer made his entrance at 1:06 p.m., weighing 8 pounds, 14 ounces. His parents are Amy and Brian Thayer of Clermont.

Although Amy’s due date was February 23, Brandon had other plans.

“We joked for months about being the first to deliver here and we were” said the excited mother. The couple also have a two-year-old daughter, who was present at the birth.

Maternity services have not been available at South Lake Hospital for about 20 years. Last year more than 1,000 women left south Lake county to deliver babies. The new Centre for Women’s Health is a welcome addition to area families who previously have had to drive to hospitals with labor and delivery services in Leesburg or Orange county.

In addition to maternity services the new Centre offers advanced women’s diagnostic services including bone densitometry (DEXA), the county’s only digital mammography machine, 4D Ultrasound and stereotactic breast biopsy.

Centre For Women’s Health Opens At South Lake Hospital

1/29/2004 12:00:00 AM

Clermont, FL (January 29, 2004) --- A new chapter in healthcare for women in south Lake County opens Monday, Feb. 2, when South Lake Hospital’s Centre for Women’s Health begins seeing patients, including the delivery of the first baby born in south Lake County for more than 20 years.

The hospital unveiled the new Centre for Women’s Health at a community grand opening celebration Jan. 17 with more than 400 attending, many of whom were expectant mothers.

“This is just gorgeous,” said one expectant mother who expects to deliver her child in April. “I was so excited to learn that South Lake Hospital was building this, and now that it’s here it’s just wonderful. “I live seven miles from the Centre for Women’s Health,” she continued. “I really didn’t want to drive 30 minutes to have my baby, and now I won’t have to.”

The Centre for Women’s Health features maternity services, with four home-like labor & delivery rooms, eight post-partum rooms with spectacular views of south Lake County lakes, a Caesaeran section suite and many other amenities for new families.

“More than 1000 women left the south Lake area last year to deliver their babies, so the Centre for Women’s Health will fill a huge gap,” said Judy Williams, RN, who is the coordinator for the Centre and helped deliver the last baby born at South Lake Memorial Hospital 20 years ago.

In addition to maternity services, the Centre houses advanced women’s diagnostics services including bone densitometry (DEXA), the county’s only digital mammography machine, 4D Ultrasound, and stereotactic breast biopsy.

Also gathered at the opening celebration was 40-50 South Lake Memorial Hospital “moms and babies” for a Mother-Baby Reunion of those who gave birth or were born at the former SLMH. Moms and their children representing the years 1948 through 1984 attended, with at least one three-generation family (mother, daughter-in-law and granddaughter) in attendance. A special celebratory photograph was taken of the group which will hang in the Centre for Women’s Health for years to come.

Taking care of new moms and babies is nothing new to the nursing staff of the Centre for Women’s Health.

“Our staff, although new to the Centre, are all experienced obstetrical nurses,” said Williams. “And many of them live right here in south Lake County, so they were just waiting for the Centre to be built.”

Obstetricians Matthew Casavant, DO, and Kristina McLean, MD, also see the excitement from their patients about the new Centre for Women’s Health. Both physicians will move their current offices to the first floor of new Centre in 6-8 months, which brings all the services a woman needs to one location.

The Centre for Women’s Health also offers a roster of educational programs for new moms, including prepared childbirth classes, pre- and post-natal fitness classes, water aerobics, and breastfeeding classes. In addition, the Centre features a Women’s Health Library which will have resources on a variety of women’s topics, such as breast & bone health, menopause, and parenting.

MD Anderson -- Orlando Nurses Elected To Oncology Nursing Society Board

1/27/2004 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, FL (January 20, 2004) — MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando nurses Patty Geddie, R.N., M.S., A.O.C.N., and Cheryl Brohard-Holbert, M.S.N., R.N., A.O.C.N., have been elected to the Oncology Nursing Society’s board of directors for the Central Florida chapter. The positions are effective immediately.

Geddie will serve as the 2004 chapter president and Brohard-Holbert is the 2004 president-elect.

Geddie, who has practiced as a registered nurse for 21 years, is a clinical nurse specialist/educator and oversees all adult oncology nurse educational programs for MD Anderson – Orlando and Orlando Regional Healthcare. She has served ONS as secretary and will participate on the 2004-2005 ONS congress planning team.

Brohard-Holbert, also a registered nurse for 21 years, serves as clinical integration plan coordinator for MD Anderson – Orlando and as a liaison to The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando in Houston. Brohard-Holbert has been actively involved in ONS locally and nationally, including serving as newsletter editor and developing testing criteria for the advanced oncology certified nurse designation. Also, she served the local chapter as treasurer for the 2002-2003 term.

Additionally, several MD Anderson – Orlando nurses have been appointed to serve on ONS committees.

Main Treatment Options for Prostate Cancer Have Same Cure Rates

1/23/2004 12:00:00 AM

FAIRFAX, VA (January 2004) --- Cure rates are just about equal for prostate cancer patients treated with surgery, radiation, permanent seed implants and permanent seed implants combined with radiation therapy, according to a new study in the January 2004 issue of the <I>International Journal of Radiation Oncology·Biology·Physics,the official journal of ASTRO, the American Society for Therapeutic Radiology and Oncology.

With many potentially curative therapies available to patients newly diagnosed with localized prostate cancer, it is understandable that there is some confusion for the patient. For the past 15 years, radical prostatectomy, various forms of external beam radiotherapy and brachytherapy have all been promoted as reasonable options for treatments. The goal of this study was to review the biochemical relapse-free survival rates after treatment with permanent seed implants, low-dose external beam radiation therapy, high-dose external beam radiation therapy, combined seeds and external beam radiation therapy, or surgery for clinical stage T1 and T2 localized prostate cancer.

The study included 2,991 consecutively treated patients with clinical stage T1 and T2 adenocarcinoma of the prostate, treated with surgery, low-dose external beam radiation therapy, high-dose radiation therapy, permanent seed implants or combined seeds/external beam radiation therapy. Of the 2,991 patients treated between 1990 and 1998, 1,973 of the patients were treated at Cleveland Clinic Foundation and 1,018 were treated at Memorial Sloan Kettering at Mercy Medical Center. All patients had available pretreatment PSA levels and biopsy Gleason scores. Each patient was followed for a minimum of 12 months after therapy.

The results of the study showed that the biochemical failure rates or cure rates were similar among permanent seed implantation, high-dose external beam radiotherapy, combined seed/external beam radiotherapy and surgery for localized prostate cancer. The outcomes were significantly worse for patients treated with low-dose external beam radiotherapy.

"This study represents the largest published series comparing the most frequently used therapies for patients with clinically localized prostate cancer," said Patrick A. Kupelian,M.D., the lead author of the study and a member of the Department of Radiation Oncology at MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando in Orlando, Fla. "The results show that survival rates are pretty much the same for patients treated with surgery, high-dose external beam radiation therapy, permanent seed implants and a combination of permanent seed implants and external beam radiation therapy. We hope that this study will help men newly diagnosed with prostate cancer and their families evaluate the treatment options to make the best treatment choice for their cancer and lifestyle."

The American Society for Therapeutic Radiology and Oncology is the largest radiation oncology society in the world, with more than 7,500 members who specialize in treating patients with radiation therapies. As a leading organization in radiation oncology, biology and physics, the Society`s mission is to advance the practice of radiation oncology by promoting excellence in patient care, providing opportunities for educational and professional development, promoting research and disseminating research results and representing radiation oncology in a rapidly evolving socioeconomic healthcare environment.

MD Anderson - Orlando Among 1st To Fight Cancer With Helical Tomotherapy

1/23/2004 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, FL (January 5, 2004) --- MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando is among the first centers in the world to possess and treat cancer patients with the TomoTherapy HIART ® system.

Patrick Kupelian, radiation oncologist, and Daniel O’Callahan, share a laugh. Mr. O’Callahan, who resides in Clermont, Fla., was among the first patients in the United States treated for prostate cancer with helical tomotherapy, a revolutionary new form of intensity modulated radiation therapy (IMRT). MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando is among the first facilities in the U.S. and the only cancer center in Florida to offer this cutting-edge technology for cancer treatment.
Considered to be the most advanced form of image-guided intensity modulated radiation therapy (IMRT), the system will be used to treat head, neck, prostate, lung and breast cancer.

“Helical tomotherapy is the future of image-guided IMRT and is an important step forward in cancer treatment,” said Dr. Patrick Kupelian, radiation oncologist and project leader for the tomotherapy project at MD Anderson - Orlando. “Some patients currently ineligible for radiotherapy may be candidates for treatment because of tomotherapy’s enhanced precision.”

Tomotherapy means “slice therapy” and gets its name from tomography, or cross-sectional imaging. The system is the first device to provide 3-D imaging immediately before treatment to verify the location of a patient’s tumor. Tomotherapy delivers a very sophisticated form of IMRT while integrating treatment planning, patient positioning and treatment delivery in one system.

“With this groundbreaking technology, treatments become more precise so that radiation can be altered to compensate for patient movement and the changing shape of the tumor being treated,” explained Dr. Clarence H. Brown III, president/CEO of MD Anderson – Orlando. “This translates into fewer side effects and may allow patients to complete their course of treatment in a shorter period of time.”

“Radiation therapy is typically delivered over many days, and a constant concern is daily changes that can affect the position of the target areas within the patient” said Kupelian.

“For example, special concerns for lung cancer patients include moving the slightest amount while breathing, even a couple of centimeters, as well as lung tumors that can progress within days, may change the anatomy of the target areas. Also, bladder or rectum filling might affect the position of the prostate gland during treatment for prostate cancer. This raises concerns that radiation meant for a tumor might accidentally hit and harm normal tissues. In addition, the tumor areas might get undertreated due to misalignment.”

However, because the physician can accurately visualize the target areas, position adjustments can be made just prior to treatment.

Before beginning treatment, 3-D images from a CT scan and special computer software enable physicians to verify the position of a tumor and adjust a patient`s position if necessary to make sure the radiation is directed to the correct location.

“In addition, tomotherapy has the unique ability to record the dose and location of the radiation given to a patient, so physicians know what took place in the previous session, and can make adjustments if necessary” elaborated Kupelian. “Currently, that kind of information isn’t available in any form of radiotherapy.”

TomoTherapy, Inc., a University of Wisconsin (UW) technology transfer company, created helical tomotherapy. In addition to MD Anderson – Orlando and UW, helical tomotherapy is slated for use in a limited research capacity at Cross Cancer Institute at the University of Alberta in Alberta, Canada, and at London Regional Cancer Center in Ontario, Canada. Tomotherapy will be available at two other facilities in the U.S., including Thompson Cancer Survival Center in Knoxville, Tennessee, and Rapid City Regional Hospital, Rapid City, South Dakota.

Building A Legacy: Plans for New Hospital for Women & Babies Unveiled

1/20/2004 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, FL (January 20, 2004) – Legacies begin every day at Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children & Women with each baby born. Last week, hospital administrators and professional golfer Arnold Palmer unveiled the rendering and plans for the new Hospital for Women & Babies.

The new 273-bed, 11-story facility will be located across from Arnold Palmer Hospital expanding the current women’s and neonatal intensive care services. Expanded services will include a 112-bed neonatal intensive care unit – the fourth largest in the nation; 30 labor and delivery rooms, post-partum and high-risk antepartum units, the Hughes Center for Fetal Diagnostics; and reproductive services for women of all ages. The building will be attached to the existing Arnold Palmer Hospital by a two-level connector. The two-year construction project will cost approximately $100 million and will be partially funded by philanthropic support. Opening is anticipated for late 2005 or early 2006.

“We are very excited about our new hospital,” said Kathy Swanson, vice president and executive director of Arnold Palmer Hospital. “We opened Arnold Palmer Hospital in 1989, with a mission to provide quality services for children and women in a comforting, family-friendly environment. Since then, we have served well over 1.5 million women and children and currently deliver more than 10,000 babies a year in a hospital that was built to accommodate 6,500 deliveries. Our clinical quality and focus on service have created a demand that exceeds the capacity of our existing building. We are simply out of room and it is time for us to grow.”

The new hospital’s unique, circular design provides a maximum-efficient layout in all areas of the hospital creating a patient-centered environment. Design features include a serene setting through the use of warm, soothing colors and tones, private rooms with Murphy beds for family members; natural lighting with oversized windows in patient rooms; celebration rooms for families to gather after the birth of a new baby and flexible space to respond to future needs.

“Because it is our privilege to participate in life-changing events such as the birth of a child in addition to caring for the special needs of all women, it was important to us to create an inviting and nurturing environment filled with balance and harmony,” explained Swanson. “Therefore we selected the architectural firm of Jonathan Bailey and Associates, internationally known for their award-winning design of heath care facilities, to create a progressive and sophisticated design focusing on efficient use of space in a healing environment. Robins and Morton Construction, known for their significant health care construction experience throughout the southeast, was chosen as the project’s contractor.”

Once the new Hospital for Women & Babies opens, the existing Arnold Palmer Hospital will become a 158-bed, dedicated children’s hospital. The name will change to Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children to reflect the relocation of the women’s and babies’ services. Together with the Howard Phillips Center for Children & Families, they will form the Arnold Palmer Medical Center.

Orlando Regional South Seminole Hospital Opens Newly Renovated ER

1/19/2004 12:00:00 AM

Emergency medicine is bigger and better at Orlando Regional South Seminole Hospital. Beginning Monday, January 19, doctors, nurses and other caregivers will begin treating patients in the hospital’s newly expanded emergency department.

“After years of planning, we are pleased to offer the community greater access to emergency care,” said Steve Glazier, executive director, South Seminole Hospital. “Over the past few years, our emergency visits have rapidly increased to last year’s high of more than 27,000. The combination of expanded space, additional staff and technology will allow us to continue to offer quality emergency care with a greater capacity.”

The new 18,000-square-feet, 30-bed emergency department, complete with two triage areas and its own fully digital radiology suite located within, replaces a 3,000-square-feet, 10-bed department with one triage area. Of the 30 rooms, there is an increased number of specialty rooms for patients being treated for trauma/cardiac, gynecologic, orthopedic, pediatric and psychiatric related conditions.

Beyond the bricks and mortar, and technology to improve direct patient care, patients and their families will find a greater sense of personalized customer service during their emergency room visits.

“We realize emergency department visits are not planned and they are definitely not fun,” said Deborah Simko, nursing operations manager, South Seminole Hospital. “In planning for the new emergency department we looked beyond direct patient care to find ways to provide additional comforts to make the visit more pleasant.”

For example, it is not uncommon for patients to want to sit outside or in their car after being triaged. To help with this need, patients are given a wireless pager to carry, which will let them know when their treatment room is ready. Also, rooms were designed for greater privacy and decorated with earth tone colors and wood panel accents for a warmer home-like atmosphere that includes a private television. Also, guest services, which provides information and acts as a liaison for patients and medical staff, is now available 24 hours per day.

“The emergency department expansion also allowed us to improve efficiency in other areas of the hospital,” explains Glazier.

Included in the expansion are two new operating room suites, expanded pre-op, recovery and outpatient areas and a new pain management treatment area. The old emergency department will be renovated for use as a new endoscopy department.

The project began November 2002 with the construction of 200 new parking spaces in front of the hospital. A new emergency department sign directs patients to the department’s new entrance.

State-of-the art technology checks into operating rooms at Orlando Regional

1/19/2004 12:00:00 AM

Beyond the bricks and mortar, and technology to improve direct patient care, patients and their families will find a greater sense of personalized customer service during their emergency room visits.

“The emergency department expansion also allowed us to improve efficiency in other areas of the hospital,” explains Glazier.

The project began November 2002 with the construction of 200 new parking spaces in front of the hospital. A new emergency department sign directs patients to the department’s new entrance.

Breast Cancer Patients & Survivors Raise $570,000 To Help Find A Cure

12/9/2003 12:00:00 AM

Orlando, FL (December 9, 2003) --- Women Playing For TIME has raised more than $570,000 for breast cancer education and treatment at MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando. During October, 450 women participated in T.I.M.E. golf and tennis events held throughout Central Florida.

“Over the past 11 years, hundreds of women have participated in T.I.M.E. events, and through their efforts, thousands of women have become better educated about breast cancer,” said Dr. Clarence H. Brown, president/CEO of MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando. “T.I.M.E. has greatly enabled us to improve the quality of diagnostic and treatment opportunities of women in Central Florida and beyond.”

T.I.M.E. – which stands for Technology, Immediate Diagnosis, Mammography and Education –has raised more than $5 million for MD Anderson – Orlando. Sheila Solomon (1941 – 2000) and Elaine Lustig co-founded T.I.M.E. in 1993 as a grassroots effort to fight breast cancer. Solomon lost her fight against the disease in 2000, but Lustig has continued as chairwoman.

“Our board is made up of 44 active community volunteers who are determined not to become breast cancer statistics,” said Lustig. “Partnering with MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando, gives us every opportunity to educate ourselves and the community about this disease.”

Proceeds from the 2003 tournaments will go toward helical tomotherapy. MD Anderson – Orlando is among the first cancer centers in the nation to offer this revolutionary treatment.

Helical tomotherapy combines a computed tomography (CT) scan with intensity modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) to deliver precise radiation to cancerous tumors without harming surrounding healthy tissue. This new leading-edge technology allows doctors to see a tumor as treatment is being delivered to ensure the most accurate dose of radiation possible.

Tomotherapy can be used to treat prostate, breast, lung, head and neck cancers.

Winners for the 2003 T.I.M.E. events are:

Golf Tournament 4-Some:

Low gross winners – Nicki Bryan, Julie Garner, Ricki Longenecker and Shari Williams.

Low net winners – Judy Hensley, Sandy Hoeft, Joyce McLane and Lynne Svoboda.

Golf Scramble:
Susan Dempsey, Susan Dorries, Anne McCumber, Maria Motes

Tennis Tournament -- Doubles:
1st Place – Stacy Girdley and Taniya Lall, Ft. Gatlin Tennis Center
2nd Place –Elaina Fontana and Julie Cipollone, Keene`s Pointe

Santa’s Elves Prepare for Christmas at Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children & Women

12/4/2003 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, FL (December 4, 2003) -- Santa’s elves will head to the Villages at Lady Lake Friday, December 12, to pick up a special delivery for Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children & Women. The elves will meet women from the Villages of Lady Lake’s “Busy Hands, Happy Hearts” organization at 10 a.m. at La Hacienda Hotel, 1201 Avenida Central, to pick up Santa packs and incubator blankets for patients at Arnold Palmer Hospital.

Each year women from “Busy Hands, Happy Hearts” make 100 Santa packs and incubator blankets out of holiday material. Staff members from the hospital’s child life program fill the packs on Christmas Eve with toys donated from local businesses and community members. Nurses deliver them to patient rooms before dawn on Christmas Day so each child receives something from Santa Claus.

“We’re extremely appreciative to all the wonderful people in our community who support our Santa pack program each year,” said Sheri Mosely, child life program manager for Arnold Palmer Hospital. “We wish everyone who donates to the program could see the children’s faces when they wake up Christmas morning and discover Santa didn’t forget them because they’re in the hospital. Their smiles warm all of our hearts.”

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Orlando Middle School Student Selected As 2003 Featured Artist

11/26/2003 12:00:00 AM

Orlando, FL (November 26, 2003) --- Hayley Webb and the snowman declaring “Joy” on her holiday card have an uncanny resemblance. Both are colorful, sport huge smiles, outstretched arms and lots of personality.

So it’s no wonder that she has been selected as a featured artist for the Children’s Art Project 2003 Holiday Collection at MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando.

Hayley looks like any average 11-year-old girl. She enjoys singing, dancing, cheerleading, playing soccer and tennis, drawing and going to the beach.

At first glance, it’s hard to believe that the six-grader at Orlando’s The Christ School fought Ewings Sarcoma at the age of 3 and has undergone multiple surgeries, chemotherapy and radiation. Ewings, a rare form of cancer, typically affects teenagers, not children as young as 3.

Her family credits Hayley’s positive, Christ-given attitude that she possesses throughout the hardships she faces with keeping everyone strong.

In July, Hayley and her family, Pam and Chip Webb and younger sister Savannah were invited to The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando in Houston where she was recognized as a 2003 Children’s Art Project artist.

Her mom says she’s participated in several drawing parties at the cancer center, which encouraged her to continue drawing.

Hayley is one of 24 pediatric artists and the 11th from Florida – all cancer patients at MD Anderson in Houston and Orlando – to be featured in the 2003 holiday collection.

“I can’t believe that the money raised from the sales of my holiday cards will help so many children through MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando. That’s pretty impressive, wow,” responded the precocious preteen when she learned her artwork had been selected.

Hayley’s holiday rendering is available at area Publix Supermarkets and the gift shops at MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando, Orlando Regional Medical Center, Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children & Women and online at www.childrensart.org. Each box, which contains 15 cards, is $10.

According to the American Cancer Society, today some 80 percent of pediatric cancer patients overcome their disease and live long, full lives. At MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando in Houston and Orlando, the Children’s Art Project is dedicated to nurturing the educational, emotional and social needs of these children.

The Children’s Art Project began in 1974 at MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando Houston and expanded to MD Anderson – Orlando in 1993. More than $650,000 has been raised locally to fund patient programs in Orlando, including support groups, college scholarships and stays at The Boggy Creek Gang Camp.

Orlando Regional takes a walk for healthy hearts

11/13/2003 12:00:00 AM

Orlando Regional Healthcare puts its heart into educating the community about cardiac care and raising funds to fight heart disease and stroke. As a Chain of Survival Sponsor in the 2003 Greater Orlando American Heart Walk, the hospital will host booths and exhibits to provide information about early access, CPR, defibrillation and advanced care. The walk was held Sunday, Nov. 9, 2003 at Loch Haven Park in Orlando.

“Heart disease remains the number cause of death for women and men,” said Kevin Nowak, administrator, Cardiovascular Services, Orlando Regional Medical Center. “Education is our best defense in heart disease prevention. As a community when we become more aware of warning signs, symptoms and ways to take appropriate action in the event of a heart attack, we help improve outcomes.”

More than 80 walkers made up the Orlando Regional Cardiac Care Nursing team.

A hands-on approach to fighting heart disease. Janelda Minor, RN, corporate educator, demonstrates CPR at the walk. As a Chain of Survival Sponsor the hospital hosted booths and exhibits to provide information about early access, CPR, defibrillation and advanced care.

Early defibrillation can make a difference.</strong> Rosa Jaranilla, RN, nursing operations manager, and Fernando Perez, account consultant, Medtronic Inc, demonstrate the use of an automated external defibrillator (AED). According to the American Heart Association, every minute without defibrillation, the odds of survival drop 7-10 percent.

Cardiac Care Nursing Team has heart. Members of the team take a break before heading to the starting line of the 5K walk/run. More than 80 Cardiac Care Nursing Team walkers raised money to fight heart disease and stroke.

Orlando Regional and Pfizer enroll students in Mini-Medical School

11/13/2003 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, FL (November 13, 2003) --- It doesn’t matter if you were terrible in math and science. Studying medicine and learning more about health without cramming for tough, medical school entrance exams is within reach. Orlando Regional Healthcare is enrolling students for Mini-Medical School, a program funded through a $10,000 grant from Pfizer Inc. The hospital’s first Mini-Medical School residents will meet on November 18 and 20 from 6 to 8:30 p.m., in the Orlando Regional Medical Center Multipurpose Rooms.

Community Medical School educates public. Pfizer Inc. representatives present a $10,000 grant donation to Orlando Regional Healthcare to fund a Community Medical School program. The program is a unique concept to share health education between the two most important parties in healthcare - the doctor and the patient. From left to right, Jayne Willis, patient care administrator, Orlando Regional; Michael Subasic, managed market manager, Pfizer; Steve Harr, senior vice-president, Orlando Regional; Edsel Bester, district manager, Pfizer; Dr. Michael Howell, medical director, managed systems, Orlando Regional; Jeff Young, institutional healthcare representative, Pfizer; Jim Van Kleunen, institutional healthcare representative, Pfizer; and Donna Wartski, clinical education consultant, Pfizer.

"The goal of our education program is to bring together doctors and community members of all ages to discuss medical conditions," says Michael L. Howell, MD, medical director, Managed Systems, Orlando Regional Healthcare. “We want to share reliable health information to help our community improve their lives physically, mentally, emotionally and socially.”

During the two-day mini-mester participants will receive reference materials and hear from four professors (doctors) each session. Lecture topics include gynecology, diabetes, cardiovascular disease, osteoporosis, cancer prevention and infectious disease. Doctors will discuss warning signs, symptoms, diagnostic tests, treatment options and prevention. Question-and-answer sessions follow discussions.

“We are providing students with everything they need to learn- an open forum, a comfortable environment, interesting lectures, take home materials and a diverse group of medical experts,” said Dr. Howell.

Though there are no tests or pop quizzes there is one rule that must be obeyed in order to graduate - attendance. A certificate of completion is provided to students who don’t skip class.

With Pfizer’s mini-medical school program there is no tuition cost to attend Orlando Regional’s Mini Medical School. Seating is limited. Reservations must be made by calling 1-800-648-7899.

Breast Cancer Takes Center Court

10/20/2003 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, FL (October 20, 2003) --- The finals for the 10th annual Women Playing For T.I.M.E. Tennis Tournament will take place at 9 a.m., Friday, Oct. 31, at the Bert W. Martin Tennis Complex at Rollins College in Winter Park.

Throughout October, women from 10 area tennis clubs will rally to defeat breast cancer. The top two players from each club will compete in the finals at Rollins College.

The votes have been counted and the tribe of Ann McElroy, Susie Rahimitabar and Lorri Levine rise to the challenge during the 10th annual Women Playing For T.I.M.E. tennis tournament.

Participating clubs include Arnold Palmer’s Bay Hill Club and Lodge, Country Club of Orlando, Fort Gatlin Tennis Center, Heathrow Raquet Club, Interlachen Country Club, Isleworth Country Club, Keene’s Pointe, Lake Cane Tennis Center, Sanlando, and the Winter Park Raquet Club.

The tennis events, along with a golf tournament, are expected to raise $500,000 for breast cancer research and treatment at MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando.

Since 1993, Women Playing For T.I.M.E. (Technology, Immediate Diagnosis, Mammography and Education) has raised more than $5 million. The group’s accomplishments include establishing a state-of-the-art breast cancer screening, diagnostic and treatment center; educational outreach programs; funding research for prevention, treatment and a cure for breast cancer; and raising hope for women afflicted by breast cancer.

Arnold Palmer Hosts 12th Annual Bert Martin`s Champions for Children

10/20/2003 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, FL (October 20, 2003) – Arnold Palmer and many of golf’s best players will tee off at the 12th Annual Bert Martin’s Champions for Children pro/am golf tournament at 8:30 a.m., Monday, October 27, at Palmer’s Bay Hill Club and Lodge, 9000 Bay Hill Blvd. Proceeds will help fund the addition of a pediatric emergency department at Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children & Women.

Professional players who have committed to play to date include Laura Baugh, Robert Damron, Robert Gamez, Brian Gay, Paul Gow, Donnie Hammond, Scott Hoch, Mike Hulbert, Tripp Isenhour, Peter Jacobsen, Skip Kendall, Gary Koch, Bob Lohr, David Peoples, Dicky Pride, Tom Scherrer, Slugger White, Larry Zeigler and the tournament’s host, Arnold Palmer. All of the professional golfers are donating their time and do not receive any compensation for participating.

Champions for Children was created 12 years ago to fund the highest priority needs of Arnold Palmer Hospital. Earlier this year, the Champions for Children Committee pledged $5 million to support the addition of a pediatric emergency department at the hospital, which will allow construction to begin early next year.

“We’re proud to support the addition of the new pediatric emergency department and to know that because of the Champions for Children’s pledge, the project is moving forward earlier than anticipated is a gratifying feeling for all of us,” said Dr. Michael Cohen, committee chairman. “The dedicated pediatric emergency department is going to save many young lives in our community and we appreciate those who support Champions for Children. Without them, none of this would be possible.”

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Run to Benefit Child Abuse Prevention and Treatment Programs

10/17/2003 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, FL (October 17, 2003) --- The 23rd Annual Dick Batchelor Run for the Children will be held Saturday, October 25, at Lake Eola Park in downtown Orlando. The 5K run will start at 8 a.m. followed by a Halloween Kids Fun Run at 9:15 a.m. Proceeds will benefit local child abuse prevention and treatment programs.

Through October 18, the fee is $18 and $20 from October 19 to 24. The price is $25 the day of the race. The Kids Fun Run is $5 and participants can wear Halloween costumes. Registration is available online (until October 23) at www.trackshack.com.

The Dick Batchelor Run for the Children is an event of The Howard Phillips Center for Children & Families, part of Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children & Women and Orlando Regional Healthcare, and the Orlando Sentinel Family Fund, a fund of the Robert R. McCormick Tribune Foundation. The Healing Tree/Sexual Trauma Recovery Center at the Howard Phillips Center is one of the benefiting programs from the run. The Healing Tree treats children as young as two or three, who have been sexually abused. Through the use of play, individual and group therapy, even very young children can begin the long and difficult healing process that is required after life-altering sexual abuse.

“In 2000, Florida was second in the nation for confirmed reports of child abuse,” explains Lisa Early, director, The Howard Phillips Center for Children & Families. “Closer to home, Orange County is consistently in the top four counties in the state for the number of reported child abuse cases. Last year, more than 12,000 reports concerning Orange County children were made to the state’s Child Abuse Hotline - a 62 percent increase in the last five years. We’re seeing a growing need for services, so the money raised by the Dick Batchelor Run is critical to ensuring that children who need help get help.”

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ORMC Nurse To Participate In Three-Day Breast Cancer Walk

10/10/2003 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, FL (October 10, 2003) --- Debbie Tchorz is lacing up her walking shoes and heading west. A trauma flight nurse with Orlando Regional Medical Center, Tchorz (pronounced Chores) will take part in a Breast Cancer 3-Day walk in California, November 14-16, hosted by the Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation.

When she strikes out on the 60-mile pilgrimage from Santa Barbara to Malibu, she’ll have her family in mind.

“When my mom was diagnosed with breast cancer four years ago, our world crumbled,” says the Melbourne resident. “And even though I’ve been a trauma nurse for 14 years and my sister is a trauma surgeon, the word cancer immediately made us think about how fragile life is and what`s really important.”

Although she’s not a competitive athlete, the 37-year-old Tchorz says participating is her way to pay tribute to her mother and several female relatives who have battled breast cancer.

“Breast cancer is nothing new to my family,” she said. “Three cousins are currently undergoing treatment for the disease and knowing what they are going through and what my mother endured was my motivation to participate.”

With $785 collected in pledges so far, Tchorz must meet the $2,000-per-person requirement to participate. Next weekend, October 16-19, she’ll have a booth at the Southern Women’s Show in Orlando where she’ll pass out information on breast cancer and hopes to raise the remainder of the entry fee. She’ll also pay for her own travel costs to California and back.

During the walk, she and a few thousand of her closest friends, many of whom are survivors, current patients or have family members battling cancer, will pound the pavement 20 miles a day, traveling at their own pace.

At night, she’ll curl up in a sleeping bag in her small tent and sleep in a tent city. She’s allowed to bring a duffel bag, which is loaded onto a van that will race ahead to the next campsite, and can only carry what she wears while walking. She’ll bathe in mobile showers and eat before setting out each day at 6 a.m. for a hike she estimates will take her about 8 to 10 hours a day.

Tchorz, who knows her feet are in for a beating, hopes the weather holds out this year. Last October, she took part in the three-day Avon Walk for Breast Cancer in New York.

“It was freezing cold and raining the entire time but there was so much positive energy in the air,” Tchorz reminisced. “We sang and prayed for cancer patients as their names were passed through the group. Also, people we didn’t know, who had lost family and friends to breast cancer, lined the streets for miles to say thank you and pat us on the back as we passed.”

One of the most memorable sights she recalled were two elderly women, both breast cancer survivors, who stood on a corner for three hours in pouring rain and took off their wigs to thank participants as they passed.

“I’ve been a nurse, both in the ER and ICU, since 1989 and that was one of the most touching sights I’ve ever seen,” she said.

Families Gather to Remember Children

10/6/2003 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, FL (October 6, 2003) --- In observance of National Pregnancy and Infant Loss Awareness month, Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children & Women will hold a remembrance ceremony at 10:30 a.m., Saturday, October 11, at Langford Park, 1808 E. Central Blvd. for families who have lost a child. The service will include readings, music and a butterfly release.

“We started this event to reach out to those who are grieving from the loss of their child due to complications related to pregnancy or birth,” said Audrey Hauser, a licensed clinical social worker with Arnold Palmer Hospital. “The ceremony focuses on the meaning of each child’s life and gives families an opportunity to grieve with others who have experienced the same kind of loss. Parents often say that unless you experience it, it is difficult to understand the impact of losing a child.”

For more information, please call 407-649-6947.

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Central Florida Theatres Playing For T.I.M.E.

10/1/2003 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, FL (Oct. 1, 2003) --- In recognition of Pink October, The Vine Theatre and Women Playing For T.I.M.E. will present Amy Fox’s “Summer Cyclone,” at 8 p.m., Friday, Oct. 3.

An opening night reception, along with a silent auction will be held at 7 p.m. After the performance, playwright Fox will hold a brief discussion with audience members. Additionally, information on breast self-exams, mammography and treatment options available at MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando, will be available.

“Summer Cyclone” is a magical tale of generational transitions and possibilities as a young woman in her thirties, going through treatment for breast cancer, is awakened to a world where anything can happen – where romance and fear, uncertainty and hope form a delicate tightrope toward an unknown prognosis and a possible future.

The Vine Theatre opened this year through the efforts of Orlando residents Whitney Goin and Stephanie Williams, to reach out to the community through theatre. In keeping with that mission, all proceeds from “Summer Cyclone” will be donated to Women Playing For T.I.M.E. for breast cancer education, research and treatment at MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando. Also, nearly 100 percent of the production costs have been donated by local merchants.

T.I.M.E. began in 1993 as a grassroots effort of a few women to educate others about the importance of early detection and prevention for breast cancer. Working with MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando, the events – a golf and tennis tournament – are held in October to coincide with Pink October, the center’s breast cancer awareness campaign. Over the past 10 years, T.I.M.E. has raised more than $5 million toward various education and early detection programs.

To learn more about Women Playing For T.I.M.E., call Sandy Layne at 321-843-4069. For tickets, call the Vine Theatre 407-447-5290.

Pink October is registered with the State of Florida by MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando and Orlando Regional Healthcare.

Orlando Mayor & Orange Co. Chairman Put Best Foot Forward For Breast Cancer

9/30/2003 12:00:00 AM

WHO:
* Orlando Mayor Buddy Dyer and his wife, Karen
* Orange County Chairman Richard Crotty and his wife, Pam
* Dr. Clarence Brown, president/CEO, and Dr. Nikita Shah, breast cancer specialist, MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando
* Women Playing For T.I.M.E.

WHAT: Pink October proclamation by Orlando Mayor Buddy Dyer and Orange County Chairman Rich Crotty

WHERE: Orlando City Hall, 400 S. Orange Ave. (Corner of Orange Avenue & South Street)

WHEN: 8 a.m., Wednesday, Oct. 1

WHY: More than 212,000 new cases of breast cancer will be diagnosed this year. While it is the most commonly diagnosed cancer for American women, deaths due to breast cancer are beginning to decline. This is largely attributable to earlier detection and improved treatments.

Orlando Mayor Buddy Dyer and his wife Karen, along with Orange County Chairman Rich Crotty and his wife Pam, will kick off Pink October, MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando’s breast cancer awareness campaign at Orlando City Hall, 400 S. Orange Ave., at 8 a.m., Wednesday, Oct. 1. Members of Women Playing For T.I.M.E. (Time, Immediate Diagnosis, Mammography & Education) and breast cancer specialists from MD Anderson -- Orlando will be available to speak about breast cancer diagnosis, treatment options and the outlook for the future. At 8:30 a.m., Mrs. Dyer and Crotty will lead a pink-clad group on a mile hike from City Hall to MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando (1400 S. Orange Ave.).

Pink October is registered with the State of Florida by Orlando Regional Healthcare and MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando.

T.I.M.E. Scrambles To Raise Breast Cancer Awareness

9/23/2003 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, FL (September 26, 2003) --- Women Playing For T.I.M.E. will host a golf scramble at 9 a.m., Monday, Oct. 27, at Lake Nona Club, – 9100 Chiltern Drive, Orlando.

The event, which begins with a shotgun start, costs $300 per player and includes a round of golf, use of a golf cart and an awards luncheon. For more information, call Sandy Layne at 321-843-4069.

Founded by the late Sheila Solomon (1941-2000) and Elaine Lustig, T.I.M.E. began in 1993 as a grassroots organization of volunteers dedicated to defeating breast cancer. The group`s goals include establishing a state-of-the-art breast cancer screening, diagnostic and treatment center; educational outreach programs to raise awareness about breast cancer; funding research for prevention, treatment and a cure for breast cancer; and raising hope for the thousands of women afflicted by breast cancer.

Floridians 32 Percent More Likely to Suffer From Pain

9/19/2003 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, FL (Sept. 19, 2003) -– Floridians are substantially more likely to suffer from chronic or recurrent pain than the national average according to the first ever survey to measure the impact of pain in the state. In Florida, 75 percent of respondents said they suffer pain on at least a monthly basis compared to 57 percent of Americans who responded similarly in a recently released national survey.

In total, the Florida Pain Survey found that four out of five Florida households had a member who experienced at least monthly pain and more than a third of the sufferers described their pain as moderate to severe. Significantly, of those who say they personally experience pain, 65 percent say it causes them to feel anxious, irritable or depressed and 42 percent say it interferes with their ability to work and be productive.

University of South Florida professor Susan MacManus, who directed the study, said the greater percentage of Floridian pain sufferers could be a result of the state’s sizeable senior population. In fact, the severity of pain reported by respondents increased with age.

However, MacManus cautioned, the survey found that individuals reporting chronic or recurrent pain were distributed across all age groups, with respondents between 30 and 49 years of age representing the largest percentage of sufferers. “Incidents of pain sufferers were reported across all demographics,” MacManus said. “Young and old, rich and poor and across every region of the state, the survey demonstrates that sometimes debilitating pain does not discriminate.”

The Florida Pain Survey, commissioned by the Florida Pain Initiative (FPI), also suggests considerable numbers of pain sufferers are not having their ailment effectively treated. One in five pain sufferers has not seen a physician and among all Floridians a majority agree that people do not seek treatment because they believe the pain will go away by itself, they are embarrassed and don’t want to seem like they are complaining, or they don’t know where to go for help.

“The survey confirms that Florida has a pain epidemic,” says Susan Dempsey, RN, MN, AOCN, Orlando Power Over Pain coordinator, and clinical nurse specialist with MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando. “It also underscores the fact that the undertreatment of pain has serious physiological, psychological and social consequences for sufferers.”

FPI released the findings of the study to highlight their “Power Over Pain” campaign, which coincides with the designation of September as “Pain Awareness Month.” An organization consisting of a wide range of healthcare professionals, FPI launched the statewide grassroots campaign to publicize the epidemic of undertreated pain as a major public health issue and make effective pain management a healthcare priority at the state and local levels.

Among other findings, sufferers reported pain:

* Prevents them from doing some of the things they once enjoyed (62 percent)
* Causes them to lose sleep (61 percent)
* Sometimes leaves them feeling hopeless and/or alone (25 percent)
* Interferes with their sexual relations (25 percent)
* Interferes with their ability to do everyday things (23 percent)
* Has negatively affected their relationships with loved ones and friends (20 percent)

Pain not only alters the life of a sufferer, but it affects entire families. As part of the survey, more than three-quarters of Floridians interviewed with a pain sufferer in the family said the sufferer becomes more irritable and that it hurts relationships with family members. More than half of those same respondents said that pain has altered the sufferer’s outlook on life and they are not as positive about things as they once were.

The good news is that most pain can be relieved through proper medications and other treatments, which is an important message in FPI’s efforts, according to Dempsey.

On the other hand, she says, there are a number of barriers to overcome that prevent effective pain treatment, including inadequate training in pain management by healthcare professionals and concerns over the appropriate use of effective pain medications.

“As the survey showed, there is also a stigma associated with pain,” Dempsey explains. Many people with pain are fearful or embarrassed to let their families, friends and even their physicians know they are in pain because they don’t want to appear weak or believe pain is just something you need to accept.”

The Florida Pain Survey was underwritten by the American Pain Foundation (APF) and the American Alliance for Cancer Pain Initiatives (AACPI). APF and AACPI are national partners in the “Power Over Pain” campaign, a statewide project of the Florida Pain Initiative in collaboration with the Florida Division of the American Cancer Society.

The telephone survey was conducted by Susan Schuler and Associates, Inc., of Tampa. A total of 735 Florida households were randomly selected between August 12 - 24, 2003. The national figures were reported in a Research America! survey released in early September.

MD Anderson -- Orlando Paints Nine Central Florida Students As Scholars

9/17/2003 12:00:00 AM

Orlando, FL (September 17, 2003) --- The Children’s Art Project scholarship program at MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando recently awarded nine scholarships to former cancer patients who are attending college in Florida.

The students are:

Sarah Anderson, Brevard Community College, $1750. Anderson is majoring in pediatric occupational therapy. She intends to study at the University of Florida following graduation.
Phillip Balleto, University of Central Florida, $3500. Balleto plans to attend pharmacy school at the University of Florida.
Chad Chowning, Full Sail Academy, $1750. After completing the 13-month program, Chowning plans to work in the film industry.
Travis Kolbjornsen, University of Florida, $3500. A building construction major, Kolbjorsin plans to pursue graduate studies.
Meghan Livingston, University of North Florida, $3500. Livingston, who recently graduated from Merritt Island High School, will study nursing.
Jacob Robinson, University of Florida, $3500. Robinson , a senior in building construction, will pursue a master’s in building construction after graduation.
Ethan Sheron, Daytona Beach Community College, $1750. Sheron is a recent graduate of Pine Ridge High School in Deltona.
Thomas Wansley, Valencia Community College, $1750. Wansley is pursuing communications studies.
Heather Zgodzinski, Seminole Community College, $1750. Zgodsinski plans to attend nursing school at Florida State University and specialize in neonatal care.

Each scholarship recipient will receive $3,500 per year if attending a state university or $1,750 per year if attending a community college or vocational school. They are required to enroll for nine credit hours each semester and maintain at least a 2.0 G.P.A.

Each recipient was treated at MD Anderson – Orlando or Nemours Children’s Clinic, and submitted an essay, goal statement and academic records as part of the selection process.

The Children’s Art Project began in 1974 at The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando in Houston and expanded to MD Anderson – Orlando in 1993. More than $800,000 in proceeds has been raised locally through the sale of Holiday Cards at Orlando Regional Healthcare gift shops and Publix supermarkets. In addition to the scholarships, funds are also provided to the Child Life Programs at Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children & Women and Nemours Children’s Clinic and Boggy Creek Gang Camp.

Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children & Women Delivers for the 100,000th Time

9/17/2003 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, FL (September 17, 2003) – History was made at Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children & Women on Monday, September 15, when it delivered its 100,000th birth – a baby girl. Anna Leigh Hawkins, who weighed 9 lbs and 1 oz, was born to Jodi and Joe Hawkins of Oviedo.

To mark the special occasion, the family was honored with a signed photograph from Mr. Arnold Palmer; a $1,000 savings bond from South Trust Bank; a video camera from CompUSA; “A day at the spa for Mom” from the Ritz-Carlton Spa at Grand Lakes Orlando; a “Ribs for Life” card for the baby from Tony Roma’s; a photo package from “That’s My Baby” Photography and a Bath and Body Works gift basket.

“We are very excited about having our 100,000 birth and celebrating it with our patients and staff,” said Cathie Brazell, administrator of obstetrical services at Arnold Palmer Hospital. “We are amazed at how quickly we reached this milestone as we opened our doors just 14 years ago this month.”

The 99,999, 100,001 and 100,002 births were also honored with photo packages from “That’s My Baby” Photography and all moms who delivered on September 15 received gift bags with lotion from Bath & Body Works as well as a “Bundle of Joy” baby booklet.

Since opening its doors on September 10, 1989, Arnold Palmer Hospital delivers more than 10,000 births a year, a baby about every 40 minutes and a classroom of students a day (approximately 35). Additionally, it uses more than 750,000 diapers, 554,000 baby blankets, 1,400,000 wash cloths and 58,000 baby shirts a year.

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September Is Gynecologic Cancer Month: Know The Warning Signs

9/8/2003 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, FL (September 8, 2003) --- About every six minutes, a woman in the United States is diagnosed with a cancer of the reproductive organs. With this sobering statistic, doctors at MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando are reminding women of the importance of early detection.

"More than 5,000 women in Florida are diagnosed annually with gynecologic cancers," said Dr. Richard Boothby, director of clinical research and gynecologic oncologist for the Gynecologic Cancer Specialty Section at MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando.

“Therefore, it is important for all women to become familiar with the warning signs and understand the importance of early detection and proper treatment.

Cancers of the female reproductive tract include ovarian, cervical, uterine, vaginal, or tubal cancer. But even though these are the fourth most common cancers, they do not have to be fatal if women are aware of the warning signs and the importance of early detection. With early detection and education tools, such as PAP and risk assessment tests, these cancers can be detected in early stages and possibly prevented.

Warning signs include:
* A change in bowel or bladder habits
* A sore that doesn`t heal
* Unusual vaginal bleeding or discharge
* A thickening or lump that causes pain or can be seen or felt
* Persistent indigestion
* A pain or pressure in the pelvic area

A woman with any of these symptoms should seek medical attention to determine whether she needs to see a gynecological oncologist, a cancer specialist with training in the areas of cancer of the reproductive organs.

"By catching these cancers in their earliest stages we can cut the death rate by half," said Boothby.

To decrease your chances of developing gynecologic cancer, Boothby advises:

* Getting to know your family history. The genetic risk for ovarian cancer can be transmitted through either mother or father, making both family histories equally important. Therefore, you should alert your gynecologist about cancers in your family history so preventative measures can be taken.
* Making an appointment with a gynecologist for an annual exam and Pap test. All women over 18 should make this part of their yearly health care. Some of the most common forms of gynecologic cancers have no symptoms and can only be detected by seeing your gynecologist. Also, any unexpected bleeding or spotting should immediately be brought to the attention of your doctor.
* Conducting a cancer risk assessment. Visit www.wcn.org and complete an online assessment.

To learn more about various forms of gynecologic cancer, call 321-841-1916 or visit www.mdandersonorlando.org.

Leander Paes, 2003 Wimbledon Mixed Doubles Champions, Released From Hospital

9/4/2003 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, FL (Sept. 4, 2003) -- Leander Paes, 2003 Wimbledon Mixed Doubles Champion and 1996 Atlanta Olympic Bronze Medalist, was released from MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando on Saturday, August 30.

Paes will receive ongoing care and follow up evaluation on an outpatient basis.

Condition Update, Leander Paes, 2003 Wimbledon Mixed Doubles Champion

8/25/2003 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, FL (Aug. 25, 2003) --- Leander Paes, 1996 Atlanta Olympic Bronze Medallist and 2003 Wimbledon Mixed Doubles Champion remains in stable condition and continues to be monitored, following his admission to MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando on Tuesday, August 19.

Prior to admission to MD Anderson - Orlando, Paes checked himself into the emergency room of a local hospital near his home, on Sunday, August 17, after suffering from severe headaches for three days.

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Diagnosis
On Sunday, August 24, Paes was diagnosed with neurosysticercosis, a parasitic infection causing a brain abscess. A series of tests, performed at MD Anderson - Orlando, leading to the diagnosis included: two MRIs; a CT scan; three biopsies to remove muscle tissue from his right playing arm and multiple blood tests.

Blood samples were also sent to and reviewed by a team of physicians in Bombay, India, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in Atlanta and the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minnesota.

Treatment
To treat neurosysticercosis, Paes is taking albendazole (an anti-parasitic medication) to shrink the abscess. Also, he is taking steroids to reduce possible inflammation and resultant swelling caused by the abscess. Due to a previous medical condition, Paes is also taking an anti-seizure medication. The anti-seizure medication is to prevent the onset of seizures, a possible side effect from taking the other medications.

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Paes is taking each of the three medications, three times per day. The medications cause weakness, drowsiness and dizziness. He will be monitored for other possible side effects.

Recovery
Paes is expected to remain hospitalized, receiving medication for 8 to 20 days. After being discharged from MD Anderson -- Orlando, outpatient observation is expected to last for approximately two weeks. Depending on his body’s ability to recover, Leander hopes to return to playing tennis in three to four months.

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Family
Sports Background
Paes` father and personal sports science doctor, Dr. Vece Paes, was a member of India’s Field Hockey Team. The team won the Bronze Medal at the 1972 Munich Olympic Games.

His mother, Jennifer Paes, was captain of India’s National Basketball team in 1982 and participated in the 1972 Munich Olympic Games and other competitions for the national team.

Breast Milk May Slim Risk of Obesity in Children

8/7/2003 12:00:00 AM

Orlando, FL (August 7, 2003) --- With obesity on the rise in America and many fast-food giants turning toward healthier fare for their customers, one way to lower the risk of childhood obesity in babies is found at home. Breastfeeding, long considered the healthiest option for babies, has been recently found to reduce the odds of children growing up obese.

“Obesity is increasing at astronomical rates, especially in children,” said Joan Meek, MD, director of the outpatient pediatric center at Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children & Women. “People think a fat baby is a healthy baby, but there are limits.”

One possible explanation of the link between bottle-fed babies and obesity is that parents may tend to keep feeding a baby until a bottle is empty. Babies on the bottle may be developing larger appetites.

“With bottle-feeding, babies may not even be hungry,” said Meek, adding that bottles are an easy solution when attempting to quiet restless babies, when hunger might not be the problem.

Conversely, breastfed babies have greater control over the amount of milk they consume, choosing whether or not to nurse, which may lead to better appetite control in the future. Another explanation may be that breast milk could contain ingredients that program the baby’s metabolic rate. Even the best formula on the market is still only a copy, one that may lack important compounds specific for your baby, elaborated Meek.

“Breast milk is customized genetically for each individual baby,” said Meek. “It changes to fulfill the baby’s needs.”

Normal amounts of weight gain in a newborn baby, after the mother’s supply of milk has increased, is anywhere from one-half to one ounce per day until the baby reaches three months of life, after which weight increases should gradually taper off.

Parents should follow clues such as restlessness and sucking on fingers to let them know when a baby is hungry, rather than feeding them too much from a bottle. Meek stated that a good guideline for breastfeeding newborns is once every two to three hours, for a total of 8 to 12 feedings in 24 hours.

Breastfeeding should be used exclusively for the first six months of life, according to Meek, and should continue for at least one year, slowly introducing juice and solid food.

Breast milk protects against a number of other illnesses in babies besides obesity, including type-1 diabetes, ear infections, lymphoma and diarrhea. The American Academy of Pediatrics designates each August as National Breastfeeding Month.

“Breast milk is wonderful,” said Meek. “Breastfeeding is easy, inexpensive and good for the baby.”

Orlando Regional Healthcare Among Top Family Friendly Employers

8/4/2003 12:00:00 AM

Orlando, FL (August 4, 2003) --- Orlando Regional Healthcare was selected once again as one of the top 10 companies for working families by the Orlando Sentinel, in their annual survey of local employers.

The Orlando Sentinel’s Top 100 Companies for Working Families spotlights Central Florida employers that are committed to creating a workplace environment that not only recognizes the challenges their employers face with work and family, but helps them create a balanced home and work life.

Orlando Regional was recognized for its many family-friendly programs such as the on-site sick child care center, Sniffles, Ouches and Sneezes, as well as numerous programs and benefits such as tuition reimbursement, flex spending accounts, elder care resources, wellness center and the prepaid college tuition program.

Employers in Central Florida were invited to submit entry forms that listed programs and policies relating to worklife/homelife benefits. An independent group of judges evaluated all submissions, assigning each one a numerical score used to rank the top 25 companies.

Orlando Regional Healthcare has ranked in the top 25 for the past 10 years, winning the Corporate Champion of the Year (the survey’s top honor) for three straight years in 1997, 1998 and 1999, the only organization to place first three years in a row in the award’s history.

The awards were announced at the Orlando Sentinel’s Top 100 Working Families Luncheon and Awards Ceremony held August 1 at the Portofino Bay Resort at Universal Studios. The top 100 employers were also featured in the special family issue of the Orlando Sentinel’s Florida Magazine, Sunday, August 3.

Orlando Regional Healthcare Presents Speaking Of Women`s Health Conference

7/30/2003 12:00:00 AM

Orlando, FL (July 30, 2003) --- The third annual Speaking of Women’s Health conference, presented by Orlando Regional Healthcare and hosted by WMFE, will take place at the Orange County Convention Center, 9800 International Dr., at 8:30 a.m., Saturday, August 16.

Speaking of Women’s Health provides women with a day of informative events on subjects as varied as healthy cooking, relationships, mind-body health, beauty, diabetes and parenting.

Speakers include:

Kimberley Bourne, MD, F.A.C.E. - Thyroid Disease: Kick Your Metabolism up a Notch!

Claire Godfrey, MD, OB/GYN - Keep Your Plummin’ Hummin!

Nikita Shah, MD - Breast Health 2003

Arnold Einhorn, MD - Healthy Heart

Edward Gross, MD - Latest Advances in Facial Plastic Surgery

Barbara Hansen, MD - You can be Vain About Your Veins

Tickets are $35 and include the one-day conference, continental breakfast and catered luncheon and a gift bag filled with the latest and greatest in beauty products. Corporate tables of 10 seats are available at $600 per table.

The event is co-chaired by Judy Duda, WMFE board of trustees, and Sandra Barker, owner and president of Eye Associates of Winter Park.

For more information or to purchase tickets, please contact (407) 273-2300 ext. 175 or visit www.wmfe.org/swh.

MD Anderson -- Orlando Keeps Support Programs Just Between You & Me

7/30/2003 12:00:00 AM

Orlando, FL (July 29, 2003) --- When Lucy Gordon was first diagnosed with breast cancer in 1997, she went through the same emotions and difficulties that many women had faced before her. Her doctors provided helpful medical information, but what Gordon really wanted was someone to talk with about the practical and emotional side of illness.

This desire led her to form You & Me, a breast cancer support program at MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando that is unlike traditional support groups.

Women recently diagnosed with breast cancer are individually matched with breast cancer survivors who share similar characteristics and traits, whom they can talk with one-on-one.

"Women are terrified when they first get the diagnosis and there`s just panic," said Carolyn Parker, LCSW, BCD, supervisor of the clinical social work department at MD Anderson - Orlando, who helps run the You & Me support program. "We try to alleviate that fear."

Between driving at night to meetings and discussing her illness with a room full of strangers, Gordon didn`t believe that traditional support groups were right for her.

Without conventional support groups, the options for talking with other breast cancer survivors was limited. Friends began suggesting that she talk to other women they knew who had gone through the experience.

"In the beginning, there was a kind of informal matching system," Gordon said. "Someone would say, `Oh, you should talk to so-and-so, she`s had a mastectomy too.`"

This friendly system eventually became modified into the You & Me support program.

Gordon said the program works well for women, who may be the first person they know to deal with breast cancer.

"When you don`t know what breast cancer`s going to be like, having it from another woman`s perspective is invaluable," she said.

While doctors and nurses provide women with information about the nature of breast cancer and what to expect from surgery, it`s not uncommon for women to have concerns about the emotional aspects of the illness once they`ve left the doctor`s office.

"Things such as how your children will react to your having cancer or what kinds of clothes to wear the day after the surgery are often not mentioned," said Gordon.

Without talking to another woman who has shared the experience, women might not know to wear baggy clothes the day after surgery, since bandages or equipment might not fit under more form-fitting attire, Gordon said.

Mentors are matched with patients primarily by diagnosis and age similarities, though every effort is made to match lifestyle as well, including marital status, career, and even number of children.

"It`s someone who`s walked in the same shoes that you`re about to walk through," Gordon said.

Mentors are designed to provide support for new patients and answer any nonmedical questions the women might have. Their biggest role however, is in providing hope for the newly diagnosed women. The mentors are testimonials to the fact that breast cancer is not a death sentence and can be overcome. As survivors, they prove that life can go on.

MD Anderson Named Nation`s Top Cancer Hospital

7/21/2003 12:00:00 AM

HOUSTON -- For the third time in four years, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando is ranked the nation`s top cancer hospital in U.S.News and World Report`s "America`s Best Hospitals" survey, published in the magazine`s July 28 issue.

In addition to the number one ranking in cancer, several MD Anderson specialties were ranked among the nation`s best, including:

* gynecology (4)
* ear, nose and throat (10)
* urology (13).

"To be named the best in cancer care recognizes the commitment and skills that our faculty, employees and volunteers bring to our patients every day," says John Mendelsohn, M.D., the institution`s president. "New discoveries and knowledge continue to advance ways to treat this devastating disease. We are proud to be ranked number one for our accomplishments, and are grateful for the progress we have been able to make for our patients."

MD Anderson has ranked as one of the top two hospitals in cancer care since the magazine began its annual survey 14 years ago in 1990.

The survey is conducted for U.S. News & World Report by the National Opinion Research Center at The University of Chicago. The rankings are based upon a
survey of board-certified physicians around the country, patient survival data and various indicators such as the ratio of nurses to inpatient beds and technologies available to patients.

Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children & Women Encourages Vaccines for Kids

7/16/2003 12:00:00 AM

Orlando, FL (July 16, 2003) --- Along with new clothes and school supplies, vaccinations are always an important part of back-to-school preparation for children. This year, even more vital for children ages 11 to 13, is the tetanus vaccination.

Doug Short, MD, assistant director of medical education and pediatrics at Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children & Women, recommends children receive the vaccination as soon as possible. The tetanus shot protects against bacterial infections from a contaminated cut or wound.

“Because there’s been a shortage of the tetanus vaccine for the past two years, more kids need to get it before school starts in August,” Short advises. “Parents who wait too long may have trouble getting their children vaccinated in time for the first day of school.”

Other new vaccinations available include Pediarix, a combination of vaccinations for hepatitus B, diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis and inactivated polio. Pediarix decreases the number of shots given to a child by combining several vaccines into one application. Also new is FluMist, an intra-nasal influenza vaccination.

Children entering pre-school in Florida are required to have vaccines for diphtheria, tetanus and pertussis (DTaP); polio (IPV); measles, mumps and rubella (MMR); hepatitus B; varicella and haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib). Children in grades K-12 should receive regular updates of these vaccines. Also, state law requires them to receive the second dose of the measles vaccine, a completed series of the hepatitus B vaccine and the tetanus-diphtheria booster (Td) before entering seventh grade.

Parents of college-age students should also ask about the meningococcal vaccine, now mandated in several states for kids headed to college, particularly those living in dormitories.

“Being updated on vaccinations is an important part of child care, as vaccinating children sometimes creates an effect called ‘herd immunity,’ in which a large percentage of vaccinated individuals prevent un-immunized people from contracting the disease, helping to stamp out illness,” said Short.

Short recommends that parents pay close attention to the Vaccination Information Statement, which all physicians are mandated to give parents before administering shots. Vaccinations have potential side effects, commonly redness, swelling and low-grade fevers, which parents need to know about.

Vaccinations should begin at birth and continue according to the recommended schedule for immunization, approved by the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices, the American Academy of Pediatrics and the American Academy of Family Physicians.

Mayor Dyer To Serve Hospitality at Hubbard House

7/15/2003 12:00:00 AM

Orlando, FL (July 15, 2003) --- Orlando Mayor Buddy Dyer will roll up his sleeves at 7:30 a.m., Friday, July 25, to serve breakfast to the families of out-of-town patients at Orlando Regional Healthcare’s Hubbard House. He will join other community volunteers to help celebrate National Hospitality House Week (July 20-25).

National Hospitality House Week recognizes people who devote their time and energy to caring for families of out-of-town patients, providing them with affordable housing, meals and all the comforts of home.

When a loved one is unexpectedly taken to the hospital miles from home, many families are faced with the problem of finding a place to stay. When hospital care takes months, this problem can escalate in the form of large hotel bills or long daily commutes from home.

Since opening in January 1994, the Hubbard House has become a home away from home for families of out-of-town patients receiving care any Orlando Regional Healthcare hospital.

Located at the corner of Miller Street and Kuhl Avenue –- between Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children & Women and Orlando Regional Medical Center -– the elegant Victorian-style house has 21 rooms and averages 45 guests per day.

Last year, the Hubbard House staff served more than 1,200 families from around the world with 100 percent guest satisfaction. They rely on philanthropic donations and volunteers who contribute over 4,000 hours each year providing meals, housekeeping and other services for the guests.

"With only three paid staff members, it would be impossible to offer all of the amenities such as home cooked meals and an immaculate "home away from home" atmosphere without the help of dedicated volunteers," says Peggy Smith, resident general manager.

The Hubbard House is part of Orlando Regional Healthcare.

MD Anderson -- Orlando Social Worker To Serve On State Research Council

7/11/2003 12:00:00 AM

Orlando, FL (July 11, 2003) --- Michele Delafranconi, MSW and a licensed clinical social worker, with MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando has been re-appointed by Governor Jeb Bush to serve on the Florida Cancer Control and Research Advisory Council. She will represent the Florida Society of Oncology Social Workers, of which she is a member.

Delafranconi recently passed the Florida state clinical exam and obtained her Florida licensure. She has been a social worker with Orlando Regional Healthcare, parent company of MD Anderson – Orlando, since 1999.

Delafranconi holds a master’s in social work from the University of Central Florida and a bachelor’s in social work from Ohio Northern University.

Governor Bush Names MD Anderson Physician to Cancer Advisory Council

7/9/2003 12:00:00 AM

Orlando, FL (July 9, 2003) --- Governor Bush has named Wayne Jenkins, MD, medical director and vice president of medical affairs for MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando to the Florida Cancer Control and Research Advisory Council.

Jenkins’ succeeds Clarence Brown, MD, also of MD Anderson – Orlando, on the advisory council and will complete a two-year term.

Jenkins is a member of multiple organizations, including the American Society of Therapeutic Radiologists and Oncologists; American College of Radiation Oncology; Florida Society of Clinical Oncology and American College of Physician Executives. Additionally, he was listed in “Best Doctors in America,” second edition, published by Woodward White.

Jenkins earned his medical degree from Vanderbilt University in Tennessee. Currently, he is working on a master’s in health policy and administration from the Johns Hopkins University.

Florida State University Medical Students to Arrive in Orlando

7/9/2003 12:00:00 AM

Orlando, FL (July 9, 2003) --- Florida State University College of Medicine’s inaugural class of 30 students will begin their third-year clinical rotations July 14, and 14 of them are headed for the medical school’s regional campus in Orlando. The FSU Regional Medical School Campus - Orlando is affiliated with Orlando Regional Healthcare, Nemours Children’s Clinic and Florida Hospital. Students will begin their rotations at Orlando Regional on July 14.

For students, doctors and hospitals, the FSU Regional Medical School Campus opens new doors in medicine at a local level.

"The presence of a medical school in Orlando presents new opportunities for faculty development, potential collaborative research projects and other exciting possibilities," said Dr. Jay Falk, chief academic medical chair. "Also, working closely with medical students in a hospital environment gives students an opportunity to develop interest in remaining in Florida and training in our residency programs."
More than 150 local physicians have been selected to serve as clerkship faculty. They will be teaching students in their practices and at Orlando hospitals and outpatient facilities. Each student will be assigned to an individual physician for a six- to eight-week clerkship in that physician’s specialty: family medicine, internal medicine, pediatrics, geriatrics, obstetrics/gynecology, psychiatry, surgery and emergency medicine, as well as a variety of fourth-year electives.

The campus facility is located in Delaney Park. It has about 5,000 square feet of space dedicated to administrative and faculty offices, conference rooms, and a student lounge and study area. For more information, and to see a list of the medical students and clerkship directors at the Orlando campus, go to: www.med.fsu.edu/education/Regional/Orlando/ http://www.med.fsu.edu/education/Regional/Orlando/ or contact Dr. Anthony Costa, campus dean, at (407) 835-4103.

Telemedicine: Just What The Doctor Ordered

6/16/2003 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, FL (June 16, 2003) --- Sitting at a table, about a thousand miles between them, is a gathering of the some of the best minds in medicine.

As they huddle around specially designed monitors, each eager to speak, they poke and prod one another with a battery of questions. With each electronic exchange of information, with each X-ray or pathology slide displayed, they begin to map out a course of treatment.

While the scene sounds like a science fiction novel, it is actually an everyday occurrence at MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando and The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando in Houston.

Since 1995, physicians at MD Anderson – Orlando have used telemedicine to consult with physicians at MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando. Using fiber optic cable televisions, transmissions are conducted several times a week during disease specific multidisciplinary patient conferences.

“The transmissions allow us to ensure our patients receive the finest cancer care available,” said Dr. Clarence H. Brown, III, president/CEO of MD Anderson – Orlando. “It also gives our patients the benefit of having more than one oncologist review their diagnoses and course of treatment.”

In addition to medical consultations, MD Anderson – Orlando’s clinical staff use the center to collaborate with their MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando colleagues on projects including breast cancer reconstruction, clinical research and policy formation. Other telemedicine uses include long distance training and educational sessions.

Features of the state-of-the-art room include equipment that allows specialists to examine X-rays, diagnostic images, scans and pathology slides; two specially equipped 72 inch monitors; television-friendly lighting; wireless controls to adjust lighting, sound, cameras and audiovisual equipment; a dedicated lectern with touch screen controls to monitor presentations; and a rear projection Smart Board, an interactive whiteboard that allows notes and other remarks to be written on the screen and then saved as a computer file. To complement the videoconference room, four additional conference rooms are available to accommodate 100 or more telemedicine guests.

Aquatic Rehab Patients Splash Toward Recovery

6/4/2003 12:00:00 AM

Orlando, FL (June 4, 2003) --- What Theodis Strafford is unable to do on land, he can do in the water - and his back is better for it. Twice a week, the 59-year-old Orlando resident meets with physical therapist assistant Dan Tuffy and physical therapist Kelly Fagan to participate in the Orlando Regional Healthcare Aquatic Rehabilitation and Fitness Program held at the City of Orlando`s College Park Pool.

Strafford recently began aquatic rehabilitation after a lumbar fusion for seven ruptured discs. His underwater workout includes hamstring stretches, forward and backwards walks, jumping jacks and exercises for balance.

"If I were to do the exercises I do inside the pool, outside of the pool, it would hurt," said Strafford. "Exercising in the water there is no pain and it makes it easier to do."

The secret is in the water.

"Patients are practically weightless in the water," said Tuffy. "For some patients the pressure from body weight is a major problem when attempting to exercise. With body weight no longer a challenge, we are able to increase exercise time in the water, compared to time spent during rehab in the clinic. Also, without stress on the joints, we are able to do more strengthening exercises without causing pain and possible re-injury to areas needing rehabilitation."

After an initial evaluation, physical therapists personalize a plan of care for a patient`s needs. Flotation devices, noodles, jogging belts, tennis racquets and other equipment may be used.

"We are able to modify land-based exercises for the water," said Tuffy. "Also, we can work on strength and endurance, improved range of motion, flexibility and balance."

Beyond the physical benefits, being in the pool also helps patients feel independent and "more normal."

"Patients who normally use a walker don`t have to use their walker in the pool," said Tuffy.

For Strafford, our aquatic workout offers more than comfort. It offers confidence.
"At first I couldn`t walk," said Strafford. "I moved to a wheelchair and then went to a walker. Now I am using a cane. I thank God for the therapy. My back and legs feel stronger. I am determined to walk again without the cane."

Aquatic Rehabilitation is for people of all ages with various conditions including arthritis, fibromyalgia, bone and joint problems, osteoporosis and athletic injuries.

Physical therapists in the program are certified by the International Council for Aquatic Therapy & Rehabilitation Industry Certification - a non-profit educational organization dedicated to the professional development of healthcare professionals involved with aquatic therapy.

The aquatics program is also available at Dr. P. Phillips YMCA Family Center.

Wheelchair Roundup Keeps Patients Moving

6/3/2003 12:00:00 AM

Orlando, FL (June 3, 2003) --- Advice to travel safely is not just for those driving cars. For the thousands of people in Central Florida who use wheelchairs, the message is just as important. Colonial Medical Supplies and Orlando Regional Lucerne Hospital will spread the word at the annual Wheelchair Roundup, held Saturday, June 7, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Aloma Center Shopping Center in Winter Park. The event will feature free wheelchair and powerchair washings and maintenance checks, guest speakers, vendors, carnival activities and refreshments.
Colonial Medical has sponsored the community event for 13 years. This year, proceeds will benefit spinal cord injury patients at the Orlando Regional Rehabilitation Institute at Lucerne Hospital.

“Many patients do not have the insurance or financial resources to pay for the equipment that has been designed to improve their lives after a tragic accident or circumstance,” said Betty Bruinsma, owner, Colonial Medical. “We want to make it possible for patients to have items like high-end power wheelchairs, “sip-n-puff” devices, lap trays and reachers to help them live normal, independent lives.”
The annual event is an opportunity to educate people who use wheelchairs, their families and the community about wheelchair safety issues and concerns.

“Many people who are not in a wheelchair do not realize the importance of wheelchair maintenance,” said Joann Bennett, director, Rehabilitation Institute. “Think of it this way - as a person who is able to walk, if your shoes were worn or had a tear or some other type of defect, it would eventually affect your ability to walk and cause you to fall. The same is true for a person in a wheelchair. If the wheel becomes loose or worn or damaged it can cause a person to tip over. There are many incidences where people are re-injured during falls while crossing the street, shopping at a store or during other common, everyday activities. Unfortunately there have even been deaths. With Colonial Medical, we hope to help reduce injuries and save lives.”
In addition to cleaning and safety checks, area vendors will be available for product demonstrations.
“We will have vendors featuring products to enhance the lives of our community members who use wheelchairs,” said Donald Dees, marketing and rehab sales, Colonial Medical. “One vendor, Orlando Dodge, will display an adaptive automobile to demonstrate different available features. We want the community to be aware of the resources available that can make a difference.”

For more information or to volunteer, please call Donald Dees at (407) 849-6455 or (407) 929-7687.

Colonial Medical Supplies, Inc., established in 1957, is a family-owned and operated DME Company with locations in Orlando and Winter Park, FL. Memberships include Winter Park Chamber of Commerce, Florida Association of Medical Equipment Dealers and Rehabilitation Engineering & Assistive Technology Society of North America. Orlando Sentinel recognized Colonial Medical Supplies as one of the Top 100 Companies in Central Florida for Working Families.

MD Anderson -- Orlando Celebrates Cancer Survivors Week

5/29/2003 12:00:00 AM

Orlando, FL (May 29, 2003) --- MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando is extending Cancer Survivors Day, June 1, to a weeklong celebration of life. Cancer Survivors Week, June 2-5, consists of a series of festivities and events designed to educate and celebrate the lives of cancer survivors.

The festivities, which will be held at MD Anderson – Orlando, 1400 S. Orange Ave., are free and open to cancer patients, survivors and their families.

Events include:
Monday, June 2
* 2 p.m.– Jeanne Miller-Clark, chaplain and manager of MD Anderson – Orlando’s Mind-Body-Spirit programs, will present “Caring for Yourself: Mind, Body and Spirit” in classroom 2 on the fourth floor.

Tuesday, June 3
* 10 a.m. to noon – A caricature artist will create portraits in the MCRG Patient and Family Learning Center on the second floor.
* 1:30 p.m. – Tom Turcotte will present “Healing with Tai Chi and Qigong” in classrooms 3 and 4 on the fourth floor.

Wednesday, June 4
* 10 a.m. – Wende Phillips, LCSW, will present “Managing the Stress of Cancer Diagnosis and Treatment” in classrooms 3 and 4 on the fourth floor.

Thursday, June 5
* 10 a.m. – Kristine Secrest, occupational therapist, and Stephanie Engelberg, physical therapist, both with MD Anderson – Orlando, will present “Rehab Exercises, Education and Wellness” in classrooms 3 and 4 on the fourth floor.
* 1 to 3 p.m. – The caricature artist will again create portraits in the MCRG Patient and Family Learning Center on the second floor.
* 2:30 p.m. – Jeanne Miller-Clark will also present “High Tea,” an elegant European-style teatime, in the fifth floor Day Room.

In addition to refreshments available throughout the week on all floors of MD Anderson – Orlando, there will be free water bottles, bookmarks and survivor ribbons offered at the MCRG Patient & Family Learning Center.

For more information or to RSVP for activities, call Nicole Santapola at (321) 843-1015.

Traveling With Cancer

5/22/2003 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, FL (May 22, 2003) --- With Memorial Day and summer fast approaching, the idea of a vacation getaway is on many minds. However, for more than 1.3 million Americans diagnosed with cancer, travel preparation can take on a whole new meaning.

"Many patients with cancer are quite active and able to travel comfortably as long as they take proper precautions and use common sense," says Marie Mackey, RN and community outreach coordinator with MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando. "Also, many of our patients travel for work or leisure or they live elsewhere and come to Orlando for care."

Before embarking on a journey, be sure to talk with your physician. He or she can point out basic precautions that should be taken and help you decide if it is a good time to travel.

Here are a few tips from the staff of MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando and Health Services for Travelers at Orlando Regional Healthcare. Before You Leave:

Carry a letter from your doctor describing your diagnosis and treatment plan.
Always have your doctor`s information - name, address, emergency and office phone number - and emergency family contact information with you at all times.
Wear a medical bracelet.
Bring copies of recent blood tests and lab results in case you need them after your doctor`s office is closed.
Consider long-term antibiotic therapy to protect you from illnesses such as traveler`s diarrhea, which could be especially serious.

Traveling Abroad:

Call your health insurance provider to determine if you are covered outside the United States. If not, you may need to purchase travel health insurance.
Consider purchasing emergency medical evacuation insurance. Most airlines will not fly ill passengers on commercial airliners and many emergency ambulances often charge fees of about $40,000 and demand payment in cash.
If English is not the main language spoken in your destination city, ask your doctor for referrals to English-speaking facilities in each city.
Jot down emergency numbers for each city that you will visit, as well as the numbers of the American consulate and embassy in your destination countries.

Prescription Information:

List of all medications - correct dosages, when to take them and drug allergies - and store in your wallet. Be sure to allow for time zone changes.
Make sure you have sufficient supplies of primary medications and side-effect medications.
Keep medication in original prescription bottles so the prescribing doctor`s name, pharmacy and prescription numbers are accessible if you need an emergency re-fill.
Take a recent prescription signed by your doctor in case you need a refill.
If you require injectable medications, like insulin, bring a doctor`s note stating they are medically necessary and why, so you can get the syringes through security.

During Your Trip:

If you are undergoing or have recently undergone cancer treatment, contact a major cancer facility in the town where you will be staying to see if they accept vacationers.
If traveling by plane, you may have an elevated risk of blood clots (always a risk when flying) because of your cancer. To increase circulation, get up and walk around at least once every hour. Ask your doctor if you should take aspirin or another medication to thin your blood before the flight.
If you are severely anemic because of your cancer, get permission from your doctor before flying or visiting high-altitude locations.
Stay hydrated and do not drink alcohol during airline flights.
If you feel sick, seek assistance immediately.
Avoid straining your immune system to lessen the chances of infection or injury. Drink only bottled water and eat only well-cooked, hot food at reputable establishments.
Allow enough travel time to get to your destination, especially if you need frequent bathroom breaks or rest periods.
In case you don`t like the menu at your destination, pack meal-replacement drinks and snacks (like peanut butter, crackers, chocolate and energy bars) as a backup.

After You Return:

Once you get home, visit your doctor. If possible, set up an appointment before you leave so you won`t have to wait.
If you experience any strange symptoms upon your return or even months later (some illnesses can incubate for several months or longer), consider seeing a travel medicine specialist with Health Services for Travelers at Orlando Regional Healthcare.

Careful planning and a leisurely schedule can reduce some of the stress and help you have the best travel experience possible. For more information, call MD Anderson - Orlando at 321-841-1045 or Health Services for Travelers at 407-649-6821.

MD Anderson - Orlando Nurses Author Chapters in Nursing Book

5/21/2003 12:00:00 AM

Orlando, FL (May 21, 2003) --- Patricia I. Geddie and Jan Perun, both with MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando, have recently authored chapters for the nursing book “Contemporary Issues in Breast Cancer: A Nursing Perspective.”

Geddie, RN, MS, AOCN, education specialist for MD Anderson - Orlando, wrote chapters on adjuvant chemotherapy and acute symptom management. She holds a bachelor’s in nursing (BSN) from Florida State University and a master’s in nursing from the University of Oklahoma. Geddie has worked exclusively in adult medical oncology for 21 years, and has been with MD Anderson - Orlando since September 2000.

Perun, ARNP, AOCN, nurse practitioner with MD Anderson – Orlando’s radiation oncology department, wrote a chapter discussing radiation therapy. Perun holds a master’s in oncology from the University of South Florida and a postmaster’s certification in Adult Health from the University of Central Florida. Perun, who has worked in adult oncology for 27 years, has been with MD Anderson - Orlando since July 2001.

The book includes a variety of information about breast cancer, including the experiences of survivors. The unique perspectives of nurses on current research, screening, treatment and possible prevention of breast cancer is what sets this book apart from others in its field. "Contemporary Issues in Breast Cancer: A Nursing Perspective," edited by Karen Hassey Dow, Ph.D., a professor at the University of Central Florida, is published by Jones & Bartlett.

Orlando Regional Nurse Lauded By Nursing Spectrum

5/5/2003 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, FL (May 5, 2003) - Maude Andrews, RN and business health nurse educator for Orlando Regional Healthcare has been named as a finalist in the educator category for the Florida Nurse of the Year award by Nursing Spectrum magazine.

She will be recognized at an awards gala Wednesday, May 21, at the Sarasota Ritz Carlton.

Born in Cap-Haitian, Haiti, Andrews credits her mother and grandmother for all her successes in life. After her father, a rural farmer, died when she was 12, Andrews’ mother moved to the United States in search of a better life for her family and worked as a nanny for a Miami physician through “Offre d’emploi,” a program sponsored by the United States and Canadian governments.

Although she and her siblings were cared for by their grandmother, her mother wrote numerous letters and petitioned U.S. Immigration to allow the children into the country. After 11 years, in 1976, Andrews, her brother, James, and sister, Lucy, moved to Miami to be with their mother, Jeannette Georges. Her grandmother moved to the United States in 1986.

Shortly after her arrival, she traveled to Montreal, Canada to enter the convent of the Holy Cross Roman Catholic religious order.

After serving five years, she left Montreal in pursuit of helping others live healthier lives. Andrews credits God, her mother and her grandmother for the person she is today.

“My mother and grandmother made many sacrifices for us,” says Andrews. “They were determined for to have a better life.”

Over the past 10 years, Andrews has served in numerous nursing roles at Orlando Regional including home health, orthopedics, HIV/AIDS, health promotion/disease management, education and development and as an educator. She is multilingual and often translates for patients who speak French, French-Creole or Spanish.

Andrews has influenced lives for years, including those in the classroom. She thrives on the opportunity of shaping new graduate nurses into the type of professionals she knows patients and hospitals need.

“When I was offered the opportunity to teach as an adjunct professor for Valencia Community College’s School of Nursing, it was a dream come true,” said Andrews.

She is committed and motivated about teaching patient care management where she can be a mentor for the graduate nurse. Andrews has coordinated the nursing internship program at Orlando Regional Healthcare and her name can be found on the Cooperative Care Unit’s Wall of Distinction at Orlando Regional Medical Center.

“The role of hospitals and health care professionals is not just to cure disease, but to prevent it by arming individuals with information and tools to stay healthy,” elaborated Andrews.

“Information is the greatest gift you can give a person.”

In 1999, Gov. Jeb Bush appointed Andrews to serve, on the Minority HIV/AIDS Task Force for the state of Florida. She also was involved in HIV/AIDS Research at the University of Miami/Jackson Memorial Hospital in Miami and has volunteered with Junior Achievement and the Adult Literacy League in Orlando.

Additionally, Andrews is a member of Sigma Theta Tau, a national honor society for nurses; Association of Nurses in AIDS Care; and Florida Nurses Association (FNA). She serves on FNA’s local and state board of directors. In 2001, she was nominated by Orlando Regional for the YMCA Black Achiever award.

Andrews holds a master’s in nursing from the University of Phoenix and bachelor’s degrees in health care administration from Florida International University and in nursing from Florida State University.

ORMC Trauma ICU Nurse Named 2003 Florida Staff Nurse Of The Year

5/5/2003 12:00:00 AM

Orlando, FL (May 5, 2003) - After spending two vacations working in the medical clinic of a Navajo Indian reservation in Arizona with her teenage son, Jackie Hugar, a nurse in the burn/trauma ICU at Orlando Regional Medical Center (ORMC), knew she had made the right decision.

Ten years ago, at the age of 29, Hugar returned to the classroom to earn a nursing degree.

On May 21, she will be recognized as the top staff nurse in Florida by Nursing Spectrum magazine at a special ceremony in Sarasota.

“Working at the reservation was very moving and spiritual,” said Hugar, who was dubbed “laughing lady” during her stay because of her constant smile and personality.

“The first year Alexander, my son, and I went, we worked 14 hours a day, cleaning, moving boxes and sorting donations to set up the clinic. However, we spent a lot of time with the people who lived on the reservation and learned a lot about their customs, values and way of life,” she remarked.

Originally from a small town in the northern mountains of Pennsylvania, Hugar moved to central Florida in 1985 to pursue a career in computers and to be close to her grandparents.

A single mom with a young son, she toyed with the idea of pursuing an engineering degree. However, after helping her grandfather and several elderly neighbors through tough medical situations, Hugar discovered her calling.

That year she enrolled in the nursing program at Valencia Community College and joined the staff at ORMC as a nursing technician. She went on to earn a bachelor’s degree in nursing from the University of Central Florida and became a full-time nurse in the hospital’s burn unit.

Hugar’s compassion and concern for patients is evident. With her signature long blonde hair and bright smile, she greets fellow staff members every day with a ‘hello friend.’

“Jackie is the sort of nurse who takes care of the spirit in each and every one of her patients, and her families,” said Maureen Barta, RN, ORMC’s burn/trauma ICU nursing operations manager and Jackie’s preceptor when she first came to the hospital.

“The unique attention to detail in caring for her patients, the long conversations with the families of our ailing patients and watching her work with such caring and gentleness makes you realize there is something special about her,” she elaborated.

Something so special, Barta will never forget what she calls the most caring act she has ever seen. To honor a dying couple’s last wishes, Hugar arranged for them to be in the same room, side-by-side, holding hands.

Before final prayers were said and the couple would be withdrawn from life support, family members and the couple’s pastor gathered in the patients’ room to share memories of the life the two had shared. Hugar, a chaplain, respiratory therapist and other staff members treating the two were with family to answer questions and provide emotional support.

“The couple left this world holding each others hand as they were placed in the hands of the God they loved and believed in,” said Barta. “Jackie made it possible for this family to have beautiful memories during a difficult time."

While this couple was holding hands, she touched the lives of that family, as well as the hearts of the entire ICU staff forever."

Said Hugar, “Many people comment that they don’t know how a nurse can do his or her job. It is with great honor that a nurse helps someone injured to heal. Our bodies have such a miraculous will to heal themselves. I can think of nothing more worthwhile then being a witness and an assistant to this process.”

“It’s always impressed me that our hospital has invested in such a wonderful group of people, who minister to our patients as well as their families and our staff alike,” she elaborated. “While I am the one who will receive the award, it’s only because of our collaborative team – surgical critical care doctors, nurses, social workers, pharmacists, respiratory therapists, secretaries and housekeepers – that made this possible.”

Orlando Regional Hosts Fourth Annual Stroke Fair

4/29/2003 12:00:00 AM

Who: Orlando Regional Vascular Center
Neuroscience Institute at Orlando Regional Healthcare
What: Fourth Annual Stroke Fair Symposium
When: Monday, May 19, 2003, 7 a.m. to noon
Where: Orlando Regional Medical Center
1414 Kuhl Avenue
Multipurpose Rooms A, B, C, D

Why: Stroke is the third leading cause of death and the leading cause of adult disability among Americans.

“It is vitally important that people understand the signs and risk factors in preventing strokes,” said Deanna Snyder, R.N., women`s health marketing consultant and event coordinator at Orlando Regional. “Recognizing symptoms and early detection can help people receive immediate care and survive a stroke.”

Orlando Regional Healthcare is hosting a Stroke Fair Symposium to help educate participants about strokes, treatment options, and the necessary steps to reduce the likelihood of having a stroke.

Doctors and healthcare providers will share information about the following topics:

Understanding and Preventing Stroke, Dr. Mark Friedell, a vascular surgeon at Orlando Regional.
Nutrition and Healthy Eating, Nayda Labrador, registered dietitian and certified diabetes educator at Orlando Regional
Caring for a Stroke Survivor, Bernice Higgins, Central Florida Stroke Club

Health information booths and free blood pressure screenings are also available. A blood cholesterol lipid profile and blood glucose profile is available for $14.00 (by appointment only) with instant results. Admission is free and parking is $3. To register or for more information, call Orlando Regional Healthline at (800) 648-7899.

MD Anderson -- Orlando Pharmacists Receive Highest Credential

4/29/2003 12:00:00 AM

Orlando, FL (April 29, 2003) --- Dr. Mary Ella Mahoney and Andrea Ledford with MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando, recently earned the designation of Board Certified Oncology Pharmacist (BCOP) from the Board of Pharmaceutical Specialties (BPS).

Mahoney and Ledford are among 56 oncology pharmacists across the nation to earn the designation, which is the highest earned credential in the practice of oncology pharmacy. Through board certification, oncology pharmacy specialists demonstrate an advanced level of education and training, beyond what is required for licensure.

Mahoney received her doctorate in pharmacy from the Medical University of South Carolina. She serves as an assistant professor in the College of Pharmacy at the University of Florida and has been with MD Anderson – Orlando since 2000.

Ledford holds a bachelor’s in pharmacy from the Medical College of Virginia. She joined MD Anderson – Orlando in 1999. Previously, she served as a clinical pharmacy specialist with Orlando Regional Home Infusion.

Jumpropes to Stethoscopes ‘Trains’ Young Nurses

4/28/2003 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, FL (April 28, 2003) --- Orlando Regional Healthcare is teaming up with area elementary and middle schools to teach students a lesson outside the classroom. On April 29 and 30, students will trade-in their paper and pencil for an opportunity to become nurses for a day. The second annual Jumpropes to Stethoscopes program is designed to introduce students to the health care industry and stimulate their interest in nursing careers.

“Jumpropes to Stethoscopes gives students the basic knowledge of what nursing is about,” said Karen Durigan, manager of ancillary services, Orlando Regional Medical Center, and program coordinator. “It also allows them to see all that revolves around the health care profession.”

The program features hands-on stations to teach basic nursing skills. Students will listen to heartbeats, learn to take a pulse, dispense “candy” medication and learn to bandage injured body parts. In addition to playing the role of nurse, students will dress the part with scrub tops and surgical booties and head covers.

Nearly 60 students were selected to participate based on an indicated interest in nursing and healthcare.

Probable SARS Case At Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children & Women

4/25/2003 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, FL (April 25, 2003) --- This morning, Friday, April 25, the Florida Department of Health released a regularly scheduled SARS (Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome) update. Included in this week`s report was a probable (not "confirmed") case of SARS at Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children & Women. The patient, who is in good condition, was discharged this morning.

Dr. Michael Muszynski, pediatric infectious disease physician, confirmed that the medical team at Arnold Palmer Hospital handled the admission and care of the patient flawlessly. The SARS potential was identified before arriving at the hospital and all appropriate precautions were taken.

Upon arrival, the patient underwent respiratory precautions and was immediately placed in medical isolation. Medical isolation includes specially designed rooms that filter all air flow, restrict items from being transferred in and out of the room, requires visitors and staff to follow strict hand washing procedures and to wear protective clothing and masks when entering and leaving the room. These precautions minimize any possible risk of spreading the illness.

NO patients, staff members or visitors were at risk for exposure.

The medical staff at Arnold Palmer Hospital handled this virus with the same level of precautionary actions as we do with any other infectious disease. The efficiency of these actions was a direct result of the high level of preparedness and professionalism our staff displays daily.

For more information about SARS or other contagious illnesses, contact the Orange County Fire Department and Office of Emergency Management SARS hotline at (407) 836-9053 visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention atwww.cdc.gov/ncidod/sars/.

MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando To Present Strength For Caring

4/23/2003 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, FL (April 23, 2003) --- MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando will present “Strength for Caring” to help families whose loved ones have cancer. The free workshop will be held from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., Saturday, May 3, at MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando, 1400 S. Orange Ave., Rooms 3 & 4, Orlando.

Topics addressed include:

Understanding cancer and its treatment
Managing patient symptoms, such as fatigue and pain
Dealing with changing family roles
Improving a caregiver’s mental and physical health
Identifying and taking advantage of community resources

Seating is limited and registration is required. To reserve your space, please call 321-841-5742. Continental breakfast and lunch will be provided.

The program is sponsored by the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society and Ortho Biotech.

Local Girl Scout Troops Donate Cookies For A Cure

4/9/2003 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, FL (April 9, 2003) --- Members of the Citrus Council of Girl Scouts, including Troops 829, 923, 750, 3026 and 166 from the Dr. Phillips/Winderemere service unit, recently presented MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando with a check for $210 and more than 100 boxes of Girl Scout cookies.

For each box of cookies sold, the troops received 50 cents per box. The $210 represents 100 percent of the sales proceeds from a total of 422 boxes sold.

As part of their community service project and after the mothers of two members from Troop 829 were diagnosed with breast cancer, the troops selected MD Anderson – Orlando as the benificiary of their hard work.

Local troops included:

Daisy Troop 166, made up of kindergarten students, who earned Considerate and Caring petals.
Brownie Troop 829 and 3026, made up of first grade students, who received Caring and Sharing Try-It badges.
Cadette/Senior Troop 750 and 923, grades 7 through 12, who garnered Breast Cancer Awareness Interest Project patches.

Talking With Your Children About War

4/9/2003 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, FL (April 9, 2003) – Living in a time of war is difficult and frightening for everyone young and old. However, it’s especially hard for children as they may not be able to fully comprehend what is happening. Therefore, we need to know how to talk to our children about the war in Iraq to help ease their fears and anxieties. Roxanna Alvarez, a licensed clinical social worker at Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children & Women offers the following advice.

Talk to your children in terms they can understand based on their age and developmental level. For example, you will talk to your third grader differently from your seventh grader because of their age and level of understanding.

Allow and encourage your children to ask questions. Don’t offer more information than what they need to know or comment beyond their question. It’s okay to say you don’t know the answer to their question.

Minimize and monitor access to television coverage and the Internet. Watch the coverage together so you can help explain what is being said and what they’re seeing.

Keep your reactions to a minimum. Appropriately show your own concerns and fears.

Offer reassurance and comfort that they are safe in addition to the rest of your family. Assure them that police and other law enforcement officers are doing everything they can to keep everyone safe.

Continue to keep your regular routines and activities.

Encourage your children to express their feelings by drawing pictures or keeping a journal.

If your child’s reactions begin to interfere with his or her daily activities, ie: school, peer interaction, it would be adviseable to seek professional help.

“It’s important to keep open dialogue with your children so they know it’s okay to talk about the war and they have a place to go to for information as they try to understand what’s happening,” Alvarez explains. “It’s essential to allow children to express their feelings and fears while feeling safe in asking questions that worry them.”

Orange County and Orlando Regional Healthcare Work To Keep Trauma Center

4/2/2003 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, FL (April 2, 2003) - Orlando Regional Healthcare and Orange County Chairman Richard T. Crotty have crafted a strategy to continue to provide Level I trauma care at Orlando Regional Medical Center in Orlando through September 30, 2004.

“It’s a classic partnership between the public and private sectors for the benefit of our regional community,” said Chairman Crotty. “With well over 1.5 million residents and over 100,000 visitors here every day, we simply have to do everything possible to keep the Level I status in place.”

The strategy calls for interim financial support of $5.8 million provided by Orlando Regional, Orange County and the four counties that make up the Central Florida Trauma District. Those regional partners are: Seminole, Osceola, Lake and Sumter counties. Orlando Regional will subsidize more than one-third of the amount from its reserves. Orange County’s contribution would be approximately $1.9 million dollars. Chairman Crotty will submit the plan for Board of County Commissioners’ approval by early May.

Crotty says, “Our financial support is designated for services, not administration and it must be subject to audit.”

Orlando Regional Healthcare is currently reaching out to the other four counties in the trauma district to round out the funding package.

“Last year, we saw patients from 22 counties at the trauma center,” said John Bozard, Senior Vice President at Orlando Regional.

“Once an interim regional funding formula is finalized, we can devote full time effort on the complex issue of insuring proper staffing at the trauma unit. Getting one element done doesn’t guarantee the other.”

Orlando Regional has been in ongoing discussions with neurosurgeons and other physicians necessary for Level One status to be maintained. Florida has been divided by the Legislature into 19 trauma regions, but there are only six Level One trauma centers.

“It’s important for everyone to realize that physicians cannot be coerced into providing trauma care,” said Bozard. “If we can work with our physician population to make sure that we have statutorily defined physician coverage 24/7 through next September 30th, we and our regional community partners can identify the best ways to fund and staff Level One care on a long term basis.”

“This is a regional facility that happens to be located at Orlando Regional Medical Center,” said Chairman Crotty. “We need to engage all of our regional partners and stakeholders to identify the best long range solutions so we don’t have to deal with this again down the road.”

St. Cloud Hospital Radiology Manager Named All-American Success Story

3/28/2003 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, FL (March 28, 2003) --- With only a high school education and working for a little more than minimum wage, Conrad Boger began his trek toward a better life at age 30. After 13 years of perseverance and dedication, his hard work has paid off in many ways.

Now a radiology manager with Orlando Regional St. Cloud Hospital, Conrad was recently recognized as the overall All-American Success Stories winner presented by the Florida Board of Education. For his accomplishments, his alma matter Valencia Community College received $20,000, which will go toward the radiography program.

Desiring a better life for his wife and then three-year-old daughter, Conrad’s journey began when he moved his family from St. Cloud to a neighborhood near Orlando Regional Medical Center (ORMC) and enrolled in an onsite radiography program offered through Valencia Community College.

To save money, he sold his car and purchased a bicycle to ride to and from school. Also, in addition to attending classes eight hours a day, five days a week, he held down a part-time job as a radiology clerk at ORMC, often working 32 to 36 hours a week at night after classes and on weekends.

“I knew in my heart that going back to school was the right thing to do for the future of my family,” said Boger.

After several low paying jobs, ranging from construction projects to pumping fuel in truck stops to driving a forklift to unload wood from railroad cars to stocking grocery shelves, Boger couldn’t find work for five months and unemployment was not enough to make ends meet.

“My family sacrificed as much as I did during my years in school. I missed holidays and birthday parties and I didn’t have money or the energy to go out at night” he said. “However, it was worth it because it made all the difference in the direction of my future. Everything has been better since I graduated from Valencia Community College. I have job security, and challenges to grow are presented to me everyday.”

Earning an associate’s degree in two years Conrad was presented the Scholastic Achievement Award for achieving the highest grade point average in his graduating radiography class.

An Orlando Regional employee for 13 years, he began his medical career as a radiology support staff member at the same time he began the radiography program. In just six years, he quickly worked his way to radiology department manager. Today he is a member of the Valencia Community College Advisory Board for Radiography and Sonography; participates in OASIS Community Education Programs; and plays an active role with Junior Achievement for local schools.

“Conrad was a very motivated student and still is very motivated to succeed,” says Julie McCaughtry, Valencia Community College’s radiography program director. “He is a huge supporter of education and has endured many hardships to become the success that he is today.”

“The best advice I ever received was ‘I think you can do it and you will never know unless you try,’”said Conrad. “So that’s the best advice I can offer anyone who is thinking of going back to school.”

Created in 2002, All-American Success Stories promote student successes in career and technical or adult education programs. Nominees are judged based on the obstacles overcome as they pursued their education and the contributions to society they made since participating in an adult, career or technical program. Out of 160 nominees, 27 regional winners and nine state winners were chosen.

Proceeds from the award will go toward renovating existing radiology classrooms to make them more learning centered. Additionally, the program will purchase SimX-ray computer training software, designed specifically to help students better evaluate optimal radiographic images.

MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando Announces Appointment

3/24/2003 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, FL (March 24, 2003) --- Lori Tabbutt, RN, has been named assistant nurse manager for the surgical oncology unit at MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando.

Tabbutt, an Orlando Regional Healthcare employee since 1999, most recently worked in Orlando Regional Medical Center’s surgical trauma unit where she held the positions of charge nurse, preceptor and pain resource nurse. She has been an active member of ORMC’s team member council and the customer service summit committee since 2001.

For her significant contributions, she was recognized as Orlando Regional’s Champion of the Quarter, an award given to outstanding employees, for January through March 2002.

Tabbutt holds an associate’s degree in nursing from Seminole Community College. Currently, she is pursuing a bachelor’s degree in nursing at the University of Central Florida.

Ellen Titen Named 2003 Woman Of The Year

3/22/2003 12:00:00 AM

Orlando, FL (March 21, 2003) --- Ellen Titen has been named 2003 Woman of the Year as part of the Fifth Annual Women Who Mean Business awards presented by Orlando Regional Healthcare and the Orlando Business Journal. Titen was selected from a field of 70 nominees.

"We created the awards to recognize Central Florida`s finest examples of women who have successfully bridged the gap between work responsibilities and family life," said Barbara Stuart, vice president, marketing and service excellence for Orlando Regional.

Owner and president of her own firm, E.T. Consultants, Titen has been involved in marketing and public relations for more than 23 years. She began her career in 1980 as a radiological technologist at Winter Park Memorial Hospital and quickly worked her way into management as radiology director at Jewett Orthopaedic Clinic and later led the marketing and public relations department for Matthews Orthopaedic Clinic.

Titen`s most recent accomplishment is the launching of a new downtown education initiative which has resulted in the collaboration of 11 private, public, charter and magnet schools. Working in conjunction with the University of Central Florida, the Consortium of Downtown Orlando Schools enables schools to share resources - whether computer labs, music or art programs - and provide more well rounded opportunities for all students.

Actively involved in the Central Florida community, Titen is past president of the Orlando Regional Chamber of Commerce`s board of directors and has served on the boards of the Alliance for Healthcare Strategy and Marketing and the Orlando Shakespeare Festival. She is a member of numerous civic organizations.

Other finalists for the 2003 awards include:

* Carol D. Conner, Miller, Sellen, Conner & Walsh
* Theresa Gallion, Fisher & Phillips LLP
* Sarah Kelly, Wayne Automatic Fire Sprinklers Inc.
* Shannon McAleavey, Darden Restaurants Foundation
* Hope McCampbell, Solutions Inc.
* Pamela McCauley Bell, Tech Solutions Inc.
* Susan Ortega, TravelHost Magazine/Orlando
* Raiza Tamayo, American Paving Contractors Inc.
* Yasmin Tirado-Chiodini, Intelliorg Inc.

Created in 1999, the award recognizes women for significant workplace accomplishments, business leadership, community involvement and entrepreneurial vision.

Surgical Oncologist Joins MD Anderson - Orlando

3/17/2003 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, FL (March 17, 2003) --- Dr. Alan Johnston has joined the staff of MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando.

Johnston, a thoracic surgeon, will serve on MD Anderson – Orlando’s thoracic/head and neck specialty section. Currently, he serves as surgery department chairman at Orlando Regional Medical Center (ORMC). Additionally, he has served as ORMC’s vice-chairman of surgery and as president of the Central Florida chapter of the American Lung Association.

Johnston received his medical degree from University of Miami and completed residencies in cardiothoracic surgery at University of Tennessee and general surgery at ORMC.

He is a member of the Society of Thoracic Surgeons, Southern Thoracic Surgical Association, Florida Society of Thoracic & Cardiovascular Surgeons, Orange County Medical Association and Florida Medical Association.

Orlando Regional Healthcare Employee Earns Prestigious Designation

3/13/2003 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, FL (March 13, 2003) --- Ken Peach, director of strategic marketing for Orlando Regional Healthcare has earned the status of Fellow in the American College of Healthcare Executives. Peach will be acknowledged, March 16, during the 69th annual convocation in Chicago.

An 18-year health care veteran, Peach joined Orlando Regional in 1998. As director of strategic marketing, he is responsible for research-based product development, service enhancement and marketing communication. Also, he has held the positions of director of market research, membership groups and senior services.

Peach holds a master’s in business administration from Florida Institute of Technology and is a member of Orlando Regional Chamber of Commerce.

Established in 1933, the American College of Healthcare Executives (ACHE) is a professional society dedicated to ensuring competence and leadership among healthcare executives.

MD Anderson -- Orlando Oncologist Addresses International Conference

2/21/2003 12:00:00 AM

Orlando, FL (February 21, 2003) - Dr. Jose Pino y Torres, radiation oncologist and specialty section leader for Melanoma/Sarcoma cancers and Gynecological cancers with MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando, recently addressed the “14th International Congress on Anti-Cancer Treatment” in Paris, France.

Dr. Pino y Torres, who was the only oncologist from Florida to make a presentation, discussed “Linear Tomotherapy and the Risk and Benefit Ratio in Head and Neck Cancer.”

One of the first cancer specialists to use intensity modulated radiation therapy (IMRT), Dr. Pino y Torres brought this technology to Central Florida in 1998. Because of his expertise in IMRT, he has made numerous presentations at professional conferences throughout the United States and Spain.

Dr. Pino y Torres is board certified in therapeutic radiology, internal medicine, medical oncology and hematology. He is a member of numerous organizations including the American Medical Society, American College of Physicians, American Society of Therapeutic Radiology, and American Society of Clinical Oncology.

Teen Xpress Receives Grant To Expand Services To Underserved Teens

2/20/2003 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, FL (February 20, 2003) – An $85,580 grant from the Blue Foundation for a Healthy Florida, Inc. will enable Teen Xpress to expand its services at Jones and Evans High Schools.

Teen Xpress, a mobile health program serving uninsured teens, is a program of the Howard Phillips Center for Children & Families and part of Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children & Women.

The three-year grant allows Teen Xpress to add an additional nurse to provide one-on-one care for minor illnesses and injuries; individual and group health education and serving as a referral specialist to help students gain access to the healthcare system.

“We’re very excited about the grant because it allows us to help more students by designating another one-site nurse who can establish an ongoing relationship with the teens, identify their healthcare needs, provide case management and help find insurance alternatives,” said Eileen Navarro, nurse practitioner and supervisor of Teen Xpress. “With better healthcare, health education and support services, low-income teens have an opportunity to do better in school and to make a brighter future for themselves.”

More than half the children living in the Orlando city limits live below the poverty level. Additionally, more than 40 percent of students in the schools served by Teen Xpress lack health insurance do not have a primary care physician or access to medical care. Last year, Teen Xpress served more than 1,400 teens.

Cardiac Unit Serves Heartwise Recipes

2/17/2003 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, FL (February 17, 2003) — Cooking for the heart is on the menu when Chef Tony Bernabeo and June Flowers, registered dietitian, host dinner. The two help cardiac patients lower their fat and cholesterol intake with food selection and food preparation during cooking demonstrations – a part of Orlando Regional Medical Center’s (ORMC) cardiac in-patient education program.

Heart disease, America’s number-one killer, has been linked to poor diet and nutrition, obesity and a lack of exercise. According to the American Heart Association, an estimated 61,800,000 Americans have one or more forms of cardiovascular disease, and this year an estimated 1.1 million Americans will have a new or recurrent coronary attack.

“It is important to make changes in eating habits and meal preparation,” said June Flowers. “Lifelong changes may help prevent future heart disease. We offer cooking classes to show patients how easy it is to cook their favorite foods in a healthier way and how tasty it can be. The cooking demonstrations also give patients ideas on how to add more variety to their meals.”

In addition to the cooking demonstration and food tasting, patients and family members can ask questions about food preparation and nutrition. Also, nutrition experts will share tips to help lower blood cholesterol level, eat less saturated fats and control body weight.

House Calls Prepare Heart Patients

2/11/2003 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, FL (February 11, 2003) - When Debi Geotis rings the bell at homes across Central Florida, patients open the door to peace of mind before heart surgery. Geotis, RN, MSN, puts a new twist on the traditional “house call” with Orlando Regional Healthcare’s Hearts at Home. Patients scheduled for open heart surgery can receive one-on-one education prior to surgery in the privacy and comfort of their own home, at no cost.

“We want to help calm any fears or anxiety patients and loved ones experience before undergoing surgery,” said Geotis, clinical nurse specialist for the program. “More than 25 to 30 percent of all open-heart surgeries are scheduled in advance. We use this opportunity, in the familiar setting of their own home, to prepare patients, the family and loved ones of what to expect before, during and after surgery.”

Geotis spends an hour or more during in-home visits to discuss the upcoming hospital visit and to provide a needs assessment. The assessment includes helping patients determine what changes should be made in their homes before being discharged from the hospital. Changes may include rearranging furniture, removing throw rugs or other layout arrangements, as well as other lifestyle changes that help make the recovery process easier.

The Hearts at Home program has a participation rate of 90 percent, if they are prescheduled for open heart surgery.

“Research shows patients do better when they know what will happen because they become empowered with knowledge and understanding,” said Geotis. “Also, there is a decrease in the length of stay and pain and discomfort for patients who participate in education prior to surgery. We help patients help themselves.”

Geotis’ “black bag” of necessities includes information pamphlets and an education video she and other team members produced. “The video is an important part of patient education,” Geotis said. “Actually it was filmed at Orlando Regional Medical Center, with our employees. Patients, families and caregivers have the opportunity to see what the operating and recovery rooms are like, as well as patient care units and patient rooms. Also seen in the video are examples of post-operative deep breathing and coughing exercises and examples of fitness and nutrition options.”

In addition to the in-home visits, Geotis acts as liaison for the patient while in the hospital if they or family members have questions. The program also provides resources for care and assistance after the patient leaves the hospital.

Cardiac Rehab Helps Patients Exercise a Change of Heart

2/5/2003 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, FL (February 5, 2003) --- Charles Garrett didn’t let triple bypass surgery slow him down for long. Charles remembers when walking for five minutes was difficult. Today, the 57-year-old Orlando resident works out for an hour at least three times a week. Orlando Regional Healthcare helps Charles and other patients exercise their way to a stronger heart. The hospital’s three-step program is designed to help heart patients improve their heart function, increase their endurance, manage their heart condition and build confidence after open-heart surgery.

“Patients are often afraid to begin exercising again, or for the first time because they are not sure if they are exercising the right way, exercising too much, too soon or not enough,” said Patty Harper, RN, BS, BSN, coordinator of cardiac rehabilitation. “A team of nurses, exercise physiologists, dietitians, pharmacists and social workers work with patients, their families and doctors to begin a safe exercise and education program to meet the specific needs of the patient.

Phase I begins during the inpatient stay. Patients and families are educated about the heart condition, what to expect after surgery and ways to gradually regain normal activity levels.

Phase II focuses on a monitored outpatient exercise and education program (group or individual). Patient objectives for Phase II, include improving exercise ability, controlling minimal risk factors and increasing confidence. Patients participate in up to 36 sessions.

“Treadmills, rowing machines, recumbent step machines, recumbent bicycles and upper body ergometers are available for patients to cross-train, developing strength in different muscle areas,” said Harper. “Patients warm-up and cool down with laps around the in-door track to promote good exercise practices and prevent injuries. For safety and to assess progress, we measure vital signs before, during and after workouts.”

The education component consists of six classes: medications review guidelines, stress and relaxation, risk factors, signs and symptoms of heart attack, cholesterol management and healthy weight management.

Phase III is the exercise maintenance phase. During this stage patients continue to be monitored during workouts and have an opportunity to evaluate their individual program to measure progress and make changes. After the final phase, patients are to begin a fitness program at home or a community fitness center.

“By this time, the benefits of the personalized team support, the established interpersonal relationships and patient involvement in setting and attaining goals has helped patients build confidence, set new goals and remain committed to the healthy habits they have developed,” said Harper. “Patients are comfortable moving forward with a solid exercise program and a better understanding of taking care of their heart.”

Orlando Regional’s Cardiac Rehabilitation Program is available at Orlando Regional Medical Center, Orlando Regional Sand Lake Hospital, Orlando Regional St. Cloud Hospital and Orlando Regional South Seminole Hospital.

Heartburn Test is Easy to Swallow

2/4/2003 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, FL (February 4, 2003) - Doctors at Orlando Regional Healthcare are using the world’s first catheter-free method to find clues to the cause of frequent and painful heartburn. The new FDA approved Medtronic Bravo™ pH Monitoring System uses a little electronic pill to measure the acid levels in the esophagus to help doctors diagnose or rule out gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), commonly known as acid reflux.

With the Bravo System, doctors use special instruments to attach a tiny capsule to the esophagus. Patients are given a sedative intravenously for a “light sleep” during the, 30-minute procedure. Hidden inside the capsule is sensory technology that sends data to a pager-size receiver worn on the patient’s belt. Information is later downloaded to a computer using special software. Doctors review the data to make a diagnosis and develop a patient treatment plan or explore other explanations of symptoms. After the monitoring is completed, the capsule is naturally eliminated from the body.

Before the Bravo System, doctors often inserted a nasal catheter with sensors deep into the esophagus to measure acid levels for a 24-hour period. Some patients experienced discomfort with the nasal catheters while eating, drinking, sleeping and going about their daily routine. Other patients are unable to tolerate catheter placement at all.

“The Bravo System uses the basic concept of traditional acid level monitoring, with the added benefits of greater patient comfort and practically no visibility to others,” said Dr. Steven Feiner, a gastroenterologist at Orlando Regional. “During the testing period patients are able to enjoy normal eating habits and other daily activities without restrictions. Because eating and exercise habits may contribute to the symptoms, maintaining a typical routine provides a more accurate test.”

Extended monitoring of the two-day Bravo System report provides more realistic and valuable data than the traditional one-day test window, explains Dr. Feiner.

Acid reflux occurs when there is a back flow of stomach contents into the esophagus, caused by a muscle malfunction. According to the American College of Gastroenterology, more than 60 million Americans experience heartburn at least one time per month. If left untreated, GERD can lead to more serious complications such as obstruction or narrowing of the esophagus, severe chest pain or Barrett’s esophagus (a pre-malignant condition of the esophagus).

MD Anderson-Orlando Opens New Patient Facility

1/28/2003 12:00:00 AM

Orlando, FL (January 28, 2003) --- After 12 years of serving patients, MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando has opened the doors to a new state-of-the-art comprehensive multidisciplinary cancer center. The facility stands 10 stories high, spans 220,000 square feet and houses new treatment areas and 10 specialty clinics.

“The opening of our new building marks an important milestone in our commitment to use every available resource to defeat cancer. We’ve brought all our areas of expertise together - expert medical staff, research, technology, treatments, inpatient and outpatient care -and have made it more accessible to patients," said Dr. Clarence H. Brown, III, president/CEO, MD Anderson -- Orlando.

Today, nearly 4,000 patients travel annually to MD Anderson -- Orlando for treatment. The new facility consists of 15 full-time physicians, 20 contracted physicians with staff privileges and more than 300 employees.

In the new facility, there are 10 specialty sections, each led by a medical oncologist, radiation therapist and surgeon trained in specific disease sites including breast, gastrointestinal, genitourinary, gynecologic, neurologic, thoracic/head and neck cancers, as well as leukemia, myeloma/lymphoma and melanoma/sarcoma. Palliative and supportive care is also available. The new facility features the newest technology for diagnosing, screening and treating cancer, as well as comprehensive cancer education and prevention programs.

MD Anderson - Orlando was created in 1990 through an affiliation between MD Anderson Outreach Corporation, a not-for-profit corporation of MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando, and Orlando Regional Healthcare. MD Anderson -- Orlando began operating as Orlando Cancer Center and accepted its first patient Jan. 14, 1991. In recognition of its success, the center was renamed MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando -- Orlando in 1994.

Under the partnership, MD Anderson faculty members in Houston consult with Orlando physicians on patient cases via sophisticated teleconferencing, and offer long-distance educational seminars and professional exchanges. Houston and Orlando physicians often travel back and forth giving lectures and sharing research information. Patients under treatment at MD Anderson - Orlando have access to clinical trials offered in both Orlando and Houston.

MD Anderson -- Orlando To Host Open House

1/8/2003 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, FL (January 8, 2003) --- Grand opening festivities for the new state-of-the-art comprehensive, multidisciplinary facility for MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando are slated for Saturday, January 25.

A ribbon cutting ceremony and dedication will begin at 10 a.m., followed by tours of the new center, refreshments and live music. Additionally, cancer education sessions along with information on services available to patients and their families at MD Anderson – Orlando will be available.

“The opening of our new state-of-the-art building marks an important milestone in our commitment to use every available resource to defeat cancer. We’re bringing all our areas of expertise together – expert medical staff, research, technology, treatments, inpatient and outpatient care –and making it more accessible to patients," said Dr. Clarence Brown, president/CEO, MD Anderson – Orlando.

Created in 1991, MD Anderson – Orlando was the first outreach program of The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando in Houston. Each year, nearly 4000 patients travel to MD Anderson – Orlando for cancer treatment.

MD Anderson – Orlando is located at 1400 S. Orange Ave., next to Orlando Regional Medical Center. Free parking for the event will be provided in Parking Deck “C” on Underwood Street, next to the cancer center.

For more information, call MD Anderson – Orlando at 800-648-3818.

Sexual dysfunction is widespread in prostate cancer patients

12/10/2002 12:00:00 AM

HOUSTON -- A much smaller percentage of men regain "normal" sexual function
after treatment for prostate surgery than has been commonly believed, a survey has found.

Investigators at The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando, working with researchers at the Cleveland Clinic, found that 85 percent of 1,236 prostate cancer patients surveyed reported having erectile dysfunction (ED) in the past six months.

Only 13 percent of the men said they had firm and reliable erections spontaneously, and while many patients tried such ED treatments as Viagra, penile injections, vacuum devices and penile prostheses, only 8 percent regained near-normal erections with their use.

Some prostate cancer treatments such as nerve-sparing surgery and radioactive seed implants offer a somewhat better chance that a man can achieve an erection most of the time, but the overall picture is "generally dismal," said lead researcher Leslie Schover, Ph.D., a clinical psychologist in the Department of Behavioral Sciences at MD Anderson.

The investigation, funded by the American Cancer Society, was published in two parts. The first report, in the October 15 issue of the journal Cancer, examined the degree of sexual dysfunction in patients, and the second paper, published in the online edition of the Dec. 1 Cancer, looked at the ED treatments patients used, mostly in vain.

"Too often, prostate cancer patients are led by physicians and the popular media to believe they have a 50-50 chance, or better, to regain their erectile function, but, in fact, the great majority of survivors experience severe and lasting sexual problems and dissatisfaction in the years after treatment," said Schover, who has spent decades counseling men with ED. "Many men have been sold a bill of goods, and that`s sobering.

" To instill "more realistic expectations," patients, and their sexual partners, should receive counseling as a routine part of their oncology care, the researchers suggest.

Schover and six researchers from MD Anderson and the Cleveland Clinic sent surveys to 2,636 men in the Cleveland Clinic Foundation`s Prostate Cancer Registry who were treated at that hospital with either radiotherapy or prostatectomy for localized prostate cancer. Among the questions asked were ones about the patient`s past and current sexual functioning, their partner`s sexual functioning, and current and intended use of medical treatments for ED.

Only 49 percent of patients returned the survey, and researchers say that the fact that men who filled out the questionnaire were younger and more likely to have had good erections before prostate cancer suggested up front that men who didn`t respond to the survey had less interest in staying sexual active. Of the 1,236 men who did answer the survey, and thus expressed interest in the subject, 36 percent had ED when their cancer was initially diagnosed but by the time the survey was taken -- which was an average of 4.3 years after treatment 85 percent reported having ED within the past six months. Also, 45 percent said their desire for sex was poor and 65 percent had trouble having satisfying orgasms.

"Men were as distressed about loss of desire and trouble having satisfying orgasms as about ED," the study reported.

The survey also showed that younger age was strongly associated with better sexual outcome, as was the influence of following medical factors: not having neoadjuvant or current anti-androgen therapy, having bilateral nerve-sparing prostatectomy surgery or brachytherapy (implanted radiotherapy seeds), and having better mental and physical health. Sexual factors associated with better outcome included: having normal erections before cancer treatment; choosing a cancer treatment based on the hope that it would preserve sexual function, having more sexual partners in the past year, and having a partner who is free of sexual problems herself.

The second study looked at how effective the cornucopia of therapies designed to help ED were to patients surveyed. That report found that while 59 percent of patients tried at least one ED treatment to improve their sex lives, only 38 percent found a therapy that was at least somewhat helpful, and even fewer continued to use it. The survey also found that the treatments easiest to use, such as Viagra, are the least effective in these patients, although many men continue to use them, hoping they will work.

For example, more than half of patients surveyed (549 men or 52 percent) tried Viagra, but only 16 percent said it "greatly improved" sexually functioning. Yet 39 percent of these patients continue to use it.

By contrast, patients who use the most invasive ED therapy, a penile prosthesis, reported a 44 percent "greatly improved" functioning -- the highest rating obtained in the survey -- and 81 percent of these patients still use this method. But only 16 patients (2 percent) chose this option.

"Men wish Viagra would work, but we found that all current treatments except that implantation of a penile prosthesis have a drop-out rate exceeding 50 percent," Schover said.

The second-most-popular ED treatment was a vacuum device, used by 197 patients (19 percent). But only 19 percent reported "greatly improved" functioning although 41 percent reported that they still use the device. Penile injections, used by 179 men (18 percent), resulted in the second highest satisfaction result; 29 percent of patients who used it said it greatly improved sex, but just 34 percent of those patients still use the
therapy.

Among other findings were that 79 percent of men who had bilateral nerve-sparing prostatectomy tried a therapy for ED, compared to only 50 percent of men who had brachytherapy, despite the fact that both of these treatments appeal to men who want to preserve their sex lives. Viagra also works best in men who have both nerves spared in prostatectomy, or in men who have radiation therapy, the researchers found.

The negative impact of hormonal therapy on successful treatment for ED is
also clear, said Schover. Few men with suppressed testosterone production
found a successful treatment for their ED.

Finally, the researchers point out that a patient`s relationship to a sexual partner is important in explaining successful use of a medical treatment for ED, especially if that partner has good sexual function. Yet most ED clinics make little effort to include the partner in treatment planning, said Sch

Send a Masterpiece This Holiday Season

12/9/2002 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, FL (December 9, 2002) --- Playful snowmen, trees atop with shining stars and joyful Santas are helping pediatric cancer patients spread cheer this holiday season.

In its tenth year, MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando Children’s Art Project Holiday 2002 Collection is underway. Created by current and former patients, these one-of-a-kind cards are an opportunity to brighten the holidays for family, friends and business associates. Each card includes a brief description about the child who created the artwork.

The cards – $10 for a 15-card box – are available at all Orlando Regional Healthcare hospital gift shops, MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando, Publix Supermarkets and online at www.childrensart.org.

The MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando Children`s Art ProjectTM began in 1974 at The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando in Houston and expanded to Orlando in 1993. More than $500,000 has been raised locally to finance patient programs in Orlando, including support groups, college scholarships and stays at the Boggy Creek Gang Camp.

According to the American Cancer Society, today some 80 percent of pediatric cancer patients overcome their disease and live long, full lives. At MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando in Houston and Orlando, the Children’s Art Project is dedicated to nurturing the educational, emotional and social needs of these children.

Orlando Regional Healthcare Executive To Lead National Society

12/3/2002 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, FL (December 3, 2002) --- Mary Norris, MPH, LCSW, BCD and director of clinical psychosocial services for Orlando Regional Healthcare, has been named president-elect for a three-year term for the Society for Social Work Leadership in Health Care (SSWLHC), an affiliate of the American Hospital Association.

Actively involved in SSWLHC, Norris has served on the board of directors for the past two years; participated in numerous committees and projects; and has been a presenter at the society’s annual conference since 1994. Also, she is the past president of the Florida Chapter of SSWLHC and received the society’s Florida Chapter Annual Board Recognition award earlier this year.

A 17-year veteran at Orlando Regional, Norris oversees a staff of 44 counselors who provide inpatient and outpatient individual, family and group counseling for those affected by health as well as mental health issues. She is active in many local organizations including the Junior League of Orlando Inc. Additionally, she has served as an adjunct professor in social work at the University of Central Florida and Florida State University.

Norris holds a master’s degree in public health and social work from St. Louis University and a bachelor’s degree in psychology and social work from LaGrange College in LaGrange, Georgia.

SSWLHC promotes universal availability, accessibility, coordination and effectiveness of health care to addresses the psychosocial components of health and illness.

Orlando Regional Executive Named to FHA Board of Trustees

11/21/2002 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, FL (November 21, 2002) --- Sherrie Sitarik, executive vice president of Orlando Regional Healthcare, has been named to the Florida Hospital Association Board of Trustees for a three-year term.

A 24-year veteran of the health-care industry, Sitarik was elected by her peers around the state. At Orlando Regional, Sitarik oversees Orlando Regional Medical Center, Orlando Regional Lucerne Hospital, MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando and Orlando Regional’s Ambulatory Care Center.

Sitarik holds a master’s degree in health management from the University of Central Florida and a bachelor’s degree in nursing from the University of Florida.

The Florida Hospital Association is a not-for-profit statewide association representing over 230 hospitals and over 1800 professional members throughout the state. Headquartered in Tallahassee with offices in Orlando and Washington, DC, the association is a source of advocacy, information, education, and service concerning health care issues.

Orlando Regional Sand Lake Expands as Community Grows

11/14/2002 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, FL (November 14, 2002) - Right now, the construction “work in progress” at Orlando Regional Sand Lake Hospital is simply adding more parking lot spaces. In March 2004, though, the Emergency Department will more than double, additional inpatient beds will be available, an Endoscopy Center will open and community support groups will have a new place to meet. The two-year renovation and expansion plan is designed to measure up to the community’s growing needs.

“The Sand Lake Hospital Emergency Department is the second busiest in Central Florida,” said Bob Snyder, ancillary services administrator, Sand Lake Hospital. “With the community’s steady population growth and our location in the heart of the tourism area, we are now seeing close to 70,000 patients per year. Building a larger department will meet our immediate needs and improve other services as well.”

Construction for the new parking lot, which began in October, is the beginning of Phase I. Once completed in late December, Phase II plans for the new Emergency Department foundation will get underway. The new Emergency Department will be an additional 37,178 square feet and built to the east side of the hospital, on the ground floor.

“The new Emergency Department will have an ambulance entrance, a walk-in entrance, and other design concepts that allow for a more significant separation of patients with emergency and non-emergency conditions,” said Snyder. “In addition, integrated imaging services place a CT scan, a radiology room and chest room inside the department for more immediate access. We expect these changes to have a positive impact on patient treatment times and overall patient satisfaction.”

Also adding to the new look with the Emergency Department:

-a new centralized registration department, combining the emergency room registration, inpatient registration and business office teams to better serve patients more efficiently in one location; and

-a pneumatic tube system, similar to drive-thru banking technology, connecting the new Emergency Department with the hospital’s pharmacy and laboratory for immediate, express delivery of medications and specimens.

Once the new Emergency Department is completed, other projects to improve care begin. The old Emergency Department space will be used for the new 5-bed endoscopy unit and 15-bed, pre-operative, post-recovery unit for outpatient surgical patients. The space formerly used for endoscopy services, will now be completely dedicated to acute care, enabling the hospital to make full use of its 153 licensed beds.

During the construction project, hospital services will continue without interruption.

“As the project continues, we anticipate minor inconveniences with parking,” said Snyder. “Once the new parking lot is complete, we will begin shuttle services to the hospital’s entrance.”

The project encompasses nearly 44,500 square feet of new construction and 13,550 square feet of renovations. The project is scheduled for completion by July 2004.

Sand Lake Hospital is part of Orlando Regional Healthcare.

End-of-Life Care To Ease Final Days

10/25/2002 12:00:00 AM

Orlando, FL (October 25, 2002) --- For patients with a life-threatening or incurable illness, two palliative care programs at Orlando Regional Healthcare are helping provide a necessary bridge between curative and comfort care.

“Caring for a loved one who is going to die is never easy. Coupled with grief and guilt the experience can be overwhelming,” said Dr. Beth Boyer Kollas, M.Div., Ph.D., palliative care specialist and inpatient unit coordinator.

“However, the diagnosis of a terminal disease doesn’t mean a person is at the end of life at that particular moment –- there is still a great deal of living and palliative care is about living until the last moment of life,” elaborated Boyer Kollas.

Born out of a need for services for those not yet ready for hospice, palliative care differs in that patients involved are still receiving treatment for their disease. A multidisciplinary team –- consisting of doctors, nurses, social workers, chaplains, pharmacists, physical therapists and others -– works one-on-one with patients to manage pain and symptoms, share information, help plan advance directives, offer bereavement counseling and spiritual care and provide much needed respite care, which can give exhausted family members a break.

The program at Orlando Regional has grown to include an eight-bed inpatient palliative care unit –- the largest of its kind in Florida –- at Orlando Regional Lucerne Hospital and an outpatient symptom control and palliative care clinic at MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando.

“Developing a plan to help keep patients out the hospital is one of the greatest contributions that palliative care can make,” said Dr. Chad Kollas, medical director of Symptom Control and Palliative Care at MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando.

“By working closely with them and their personal physician, we can better anticipate life-threatening complications that may result in need for hospital or emergency care,” said Kollas.

People who are dying need strong emotional and social support from their families, communities and caregivers. Something as simple as holding a patient’s hand, listening as they talk and sharing a cup of coffee with family members can have a profound impact on the healing process.

More than 200 patients and their families have received care through Orlando Regional’s palliative care programs.

To learn more about either program, call Dr. Beth Boyer Kollas at (321) 841-4729.

Ceremony to observe National Pregnancy & Infant Loss Awareness month

10/24/2002 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, FL (October 24, 2002) --- Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children & Women will host a remembrance ceremony in observance of National Pregnancy and Infant Loss Awareness month, at 1 p.m., Saturday, October 26, at Langford Park, 1808 East Central Boulevard. Families who have lost a child are invited to attend.

The service - free and open to the public - will include readings, music and a butterfly release.

“We started this event to reach out to those who are grieving from the loss of their child due to complications related to pregnancy or birth,” said Audrey Hauser, a licensed clinical social worker with Arnold Palmer Hospital.

“The ceremony focuses on the meaning of each child’s life and gives families an opportunity to grieve with others who have experienced the same kind of loss. Unless you experience it, it’s difficult to understand,” Hauser explained.

For more information, please call 407/649-6947.

Heart Healthy Cooking Class: A Tasty Recipe for Cardiac Patient Education

10/22/2002 12:00:00 AM

Orlando, FL (October 22, 2002) - Heart patients are learning to kick it up a notch in the kitchen while lowering their fat and cholesterol intake, with the help of Chef Tony Bernabeo and June Flowers, registered dietitian. The duo will host a cooking demonstration and food tasting - a part of Orlando Regional Medical Center’s cardiac in-patient education program - at 11 a.m., Thursday, October 24, at the unit’s family room, located on floor 7B.

Heart disease, America’s number-one killer, has been linked to poor diet and nutrition, obesity, and a lack of exercise. According to the American Heart Association, in 1999, an estimated 61,800,000 Americans have one or more forms of cardiovascular disease, and this year an estimated 1.1 million Americans will have a new or recurrent coronary attack.

“It is important to make changes in eating habits and meal preparation,” said Gayle Smith, corporate chief dietitian, ORMC. “Lifelong changes may help prevent future heart disease. We offer cooking classes to show patients how easy it is to cook their favorite foods in a healthier way and how tasty it can be. The cooking demonstrations also give patients some ideas on how to add more variety to their meals.”

In addition to the cooking demonstration and food tasting, patients and family members can ask questions about food preparation and nutrition. Also, nutrition experts will share the best way to help lower blood cholesterol level, eat less saturated fats and control body weight.

California Pizza Kitchen to Roll out the Dough for Cancer Patients

10/16/2002 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, FL (October 16, 2002) --- Get a “pizza” the action and help cancer patients at the same time. California Pizza Kitchen (www.cpk.com), at The Mall at Millenia, will cook up support for MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando by “dough-nating” 100 percent of pizza sales next Thursday, October 24.

"We are greatly appreciative of California Pizza Kitchen’s support of MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando and our vital mission to ‘use every available resource to defeat cancer.’ It is through the generosity of such committed businesses as CPK, and the community’s direct support of such opportunities, that our team can continue to deliver the highest level of quality patient care, prevention, research, and professional and community education," said Dr. Clarence Brown, president/CEO of MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando.

California Pizza Kitchen -- a leading casual dining chain in the premium pizza segment -- is located in the upper level next to the main entrance in the new Mall at Millenia (4200 Conroy Road in Orlando, one mile north of I-4 and the Florida Turnpike). Lunch and dinner are served Monday through Saturday from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. The restaurant features hearth-baked pizzas, pastas, salads, soups and sandwiches. For more information, or to order pizzas, call 407-248-7887.

When MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando opens the doors to its new state-of-the-art facility in January, patients will have access to one of the Southeast’s most comprehensive multidisciplinary cancer centers. The new center will combine all areas of expertise -- expert medical staff, research, technology, treatments, inpatient and outpatient care.

Ten specialty sections, each led by a medical, radiation or surgical oncologist will comprise the 10-story, 220,000-square-foot facility. These include breast; gastrointestinal; genitourinary; gynecological; leukemia; lymphoma/myeloma; melanoma/sarcoma; neurologic; palliative & supportive care; and thoracic/head & neck cancers.

22nd Annual Dick Batchelor Run for the Children

10/14/2002 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, FL (October 14, 2002) --- The 22nd Annual Dick Batchelor Run for the Children will be Saturday, October 26, at Lake Eola Park in downtown Orlando. A 5K run will start at 8 a.m. followed by a Kids Fun Run at 9:15 a.m. Proceeds will benefit child abuse prevention and treatment programs.

The Dick Batchelor Run for the Children is an event of Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children & Women and the Orlando Sentinel Family Fund, a fund of the Robert R. McCormick Tribune Foundation.

Through October 19, the fee is $17 and $20 from October 20 to 25. The price is $25 the day of the race. The kids Fun Run is $5. Registration is available online at Track Shack at www.trackshack.com.

One of the programs benefiting from the Run is The Healing Tree/Sexual Trauma Recovery Center. The Healing Tree treats children as young as two or three, who have been sexually abused. Through the use of play, individual and group therapy, even very young children can begin the long and difficult healing process that is required after life-altering sexual abuse.

It was a visit by Dick Batchelor in 1980, to the Orange Playhouse, a part of the Arnold Palmer Hospital Children’s Center that inspired Batchelor to launch the Run to help abused children. He recalled seeing six girls between the ages of two and six who had been sexually abused. After looking into their eyes, he resolved to make a difference in the lives of abused children.

5th Annual FAO Schwarz Party Held for the Dick Batchelor Run for Children

10/14/2002 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, FL (October 14, 2002) - The 5th Annual Dick Batchelor Run for the Children Party, hosted by FAO Schwarz and Mix 105.1, is slated for 6 p.m. to 9 p.m., Thursday, October 17, at FAO Schwarz in Pointe Orlando – 9100 International Drive.

The public is invited to attend and admission is $10 per person. Children under 10 are free. Guests will enjoy an exclusive 20 percent discount on select items throughout the store plus free food and beverages supplied by local restaurants such as Rainforest Café, Incredible Edible, Timpano’s, Dan Marino’s Tavern and many more.

Scott McKenzie of Mix 105.1 will host the event, which will feature a silent auction and celebrity guests. All proceeds will benefit programs for abused children.

The 22nd Annual Dick Batchelor Run for the Children will be Saturday, October 26, at Lake Eola Park in downtown Orlando. A 5K run will start at 8 a.m. followed by a Kids Fun Run at 9:15 a.m. Through October 19, the fee is $17 and $20 from October 20 to 25. The price is $25 the day of the race. The kids Fun Run is $5. Registration is available online at Track Shack at www.trackshack.com. Proceeds will benefit child abuse prevention and treatment programs.

The Dick Batchelor Run for the Children is an event of Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children & Women and Orlando Sentinel Family Fund, a fund of the Robert R. McCormick Tribune Foundation.

Study To Improve Quality of Life For Breast Cancer Survivors

10/11/2002 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, FL (October 11, 2002) --- MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando is participating in a national study, led by the University of Central Florida, to address the fears and concerns that many breast cancer patients experience during and after treatment.

The $1.6 million study, funded by the National Institute of Nursing Research at the National Institutes of Health, could lead to uniform practices for raising the quality of life for survivors on issues as diverse as fatigue, lost sexual interest and grappling with their illnesses in spiritual, life-affirming ways.

“This is a great opportunity for patients to go through one-on-one counseling after they finish their initial breast cancer treatment, especially since this is when many women feel most vulnerable and the feeling of ‘now what should I do to prevent this from coming back’ is highest,” said Dr. Nikita Shah, medical oncologist and breast cancer specialist with MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando. “We are very excited to be a part of this study since this is a win-win situation for both our patients, cancer researchers and our medical community.”

"While there is considerable research and clinical attention to symptom management during cancer therapy, the same can`t be said about the negative physical, psychological, social and spiritual long-term late effects that plague cancer survivors after treatment ends," said Karen Dow, a UCF School of Nursing faculty member and principal researcher on the study.

"The first year after treatment is a period when women are making the transition to recovery and survivorship with fewer interactions with health care providers," Dow continued. "There is a great need to develop effective strategies and interventions to help breast cancer survivors deal with the quality of life issues they face."

The four-year study, known as Breast Cancer Education Intervention (BCEI), will test whether education and information on post-treatment fears and concerns improve the physical, psychological, social and spiritual well being of the breast cancer survivors. The study will be conducted among 250 subjects, all recent breast cancer survivors.

Half will meet regularly with research nurses, who will provide information on concerns that prior research has shown trouble cancer survivors. The nurses will also offer strategies for dealing with those concerns. The face-to-face meetings will be augmented with written and audiotaped materials and telephone reinforcement. Each participant will be evaluated to determine the state of their well being at various stages of the study.

The remaining 125 study participants will comprise a "waiting" control group and will be evaluated on the same well-being standards as their study counterparts, but without any of the educational interventions and information on ways of coping with their circumstances. At the conclusion of the study, control group members will receive the interventions, so that they are not excluded from any benefits.

The provided information will deal with such matters as how to deal with fatigue and pain; fear of recurrence, second cancers and metastatic disease; sexuality concerns relating to a woman`s self-concept, body image, feelings of desirability and enjoyment of sex; and finding meaning in their illness.

Free Screenings Offered During National Depression Screening Day

10/10/2002 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, FL (October 10) – Because depression affects more than 17 million Americans annually, Orlando Regional South Seminole Hospital will offer free screenings today, October 10, as part of National Depression Screening Day.

Licensed mental health professionals will offer screenings for depression, manic-depression, anxiety and post-traumatic stress from 4 to 8 p.m. in the Behavioral Health Gymnasium, 555 West State Road 434, Longwood.

“Over 80 percent of those suffering from depression can be treated successfully,” said Dr. Eduard Gfeller, medical director, Behavioral Health Services. “Many people don’t seek treatment because their symptoms either are not recognized, are blamed on personal weakness or are so disabling that people cannot go for help.”

Depression is a serious disorder that affects the mind as well as the body. Common symptoms include sadness, feelings of hopelessness or worthlessness, loss of pleasure in usual activities, changes in sleep and appetite, loss of energy, restlessness and thoughts of death or suicide. Manic-depression includes feelings of euphoria and agitation.

“Unfortunately, fewer than half of those who suffer from the disorders actually receive treatment even though depression is one of the most treatable illnesses, with a vast majority of sufferers showing improvement in as little as eight weeks,” said Gfeller.

For more information, call the Behavioral Health department at 407-262-2214.

Breast Cancer Treatment Less Invasive & Time Consuming

10/3/2002 12:00:00 AM

Orlando, FL (October 3, 2002) --- Women with cancerous lumps in their breasts now have a new treatment option at MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando. Recently approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, the MammoSite® Radiation Therapy System accelerates treatment time and results with fewer serious side effects by specifically targeting tumor sites instead of the entire breast.

“MammoSite is an important treatment option for women with small and early stage breast tumors,” said Dr. Wayne Jenkins, radiation oncologist and medical director for MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando.

Until now, about half of all women with early stage breast cancer opt for mastectomy even though positive outcomes are associated with lumpectomy (tumor removal) and radiation.

“By delivering radiation from inside the body and targeting the area where tumors are most likely to recur, we are able to minimize exposure to healthy tissue which translates into fewer side effects to the breast, skin, heart and lungs,” elaborated Jenkins.

The treatment begins with a lumpectomy. During the operation, a surgeon positions the balloon portion of the MammoSite catheter within the cavity created by removing the malignant breast tumor. The other end of the catheter extends outside the breast.

During twice-daily, 15-minute long treatments, a radioactive metal seed about the size of a grain of rice is injected into the catheter, which is attached by a cable to a radiation machine. After the seed delivers radiation to the affected area, it is removed at the end of each session, allowing patients to return home between treatments. Once complete, the catheter is removed at week’s end.

“Because we are able to provide higher doses of radiation, treatment times are greatly reduced from several weeks to just a few days.” said Jenkins. “It makes it much more convenient for those patients who don`t drive, commute from other cities or who have a busy work schedule," he added.

According to the American Cancer Society, more than 250,000 women in the United States – about 13,000 in Florida – will be diagnosed with breast cancer this year. About 80 percent of those will be diagnosed in the early stages. For these women, there is now a new treatment alternative.

“Today, more women are choosing breast-conserving surgery. MammoSite gives us another option to consider,” said Rita Mahaffey, a breast care coordinator and RN at MD Anderson – Orlando’s Breast Diagnostic Center.

Central Florida Pioneers in Breast Cancer Movement Reach 10-Year Milestone

9/27/2002 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, FL (September 27, 2002) --- In October, Women Playing For T.I.M.E. (Technology, Immediate Diagnosis, Mammography and Education) will celebrate 10 years of creating awareness and raising funds for breast cancer education, research and community outreach programs at MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando.

In 1993, Elaine Lustig and Sheila Solomon combined their love of golf with a mutual desire to promote breast cancer awareness and founded T.I.M.E. Diagnosed six years earlier with breast cancer, Sheila, who has since passed away from the disease, envisioned an event that would drive home the importance of early detection and education.

“Education was very important to Sheila,” said Lustig. “By knowing as much as she could about the disease she felt it was the one way she could take back control of her life. Today, more women are surviving because of education, screening and awareness programs.”

Approaching the $5 million mark in total monies raised, the not-for-profit organization consists of a 53-woman board of directors and scores of volunteers. Two signature events – a golf tournament and tennis tournament – provide much of the funds for the fight against breast cancer. Along with a fashion show, this year Lustig expects to raise $800,000 toward the purchase of a helical tomotherapy system.

Helical tomotherapy combines a computed tomography (CT) scan with intensity modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) to deliver precise radiation to cancerous tumors without harming surrounding healthy tissue. This new leading-edge technology allows doctors to see the tumor as treatment is being delivered to ensure the most accurate dose of radiation possible. MD Anderson – Orlando will be one of four sites in the world to possess helical tomotherapy when the new state-of-the-art comprehensive cancer center opens early next year.

T.I.M.E.’s significant accomplishments include establishing a state-of-the-art breast cancer screening, diagnostic and treatment center; educational outreach programs to raise awareness about breast cancer; funding research for prevention, treatment and a cure for breast cancer; and raising hope for thousands of women afflicted by breast cancer.

“What began as one friend leaning on another in a time of need has helped thousands of women become better educated about breast cancer and realize the importance of early detection,” said Dr. Clarence H. Brown, medical oncologist and president/CEO of MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando. “T.I.M.E. has greatly enabled us to improve the quality of diagnostic and treatment opportunities for women in Central Florida and beyond.”

In Florida alone, more than 13,000 women and men will be diagnosed with breast cancer this year and approximately 2,600 will die from the disease.

For more information on breast cancer, call MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando at 321-841-1045 or visit them at http://www.orlandohealth.com/mdanderson/Index.aspx.

MD Anderson – Orlando to Offer Free Screenings to Qualified Women

9/26/2002 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, FL (September 26, 2002) --- For the fourth consecutive year, MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando will participate in the Florida Breast and Cervical Cancer Early Detection Program, funded through a federal grant from the Center for Disease Control (CDC).

Created in 1994, the program provides assistance to women who are uninsured or whose health plans do not cover cancer screenings.

With the CDC grant, MD Anderson – Orlando will provide breast and cervical cancer screening exams, diagnostic exams, case management, outreach and public and professional education.

According to the Florida Department of Health (DOH), breast cancer is the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths among Florida women, and the numbers are increasing. Detecting cancer at an early stage is the key to improved survival and decreased mortality rates.

The free or reduced-cost screenings are available to women between the ages of 50 and 64 who are uninsured or whose health plans do not cover cancer screenings.

Women should call MD Anderson – Orlando’s Cancer HealthLine at 321-841-1045 for prescreening and eligibility requirements.

As part of Pink October, physicians and nurses at MD Anderson – Orlando ask women to pass along information about the program to anyone who may benefit.

Pink October is registered by Orlando Regional Healthcare with the State of Florida.

ORMC Recognized Nationally for Excellence in Service

9/24/2002 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, FL (September 24, 2002) --- Orlando Regional Medical Center (ORMC) has been named a 2002 Consumer Choice Award winner by National Research Corporation (NRC), the nation’s leading healthcare performance measurement firm. The announcement was made in the September 16 issue of Modern Healthcare.

“Our commitment to providing Central Floridians families with quality healthcare is something we strive toward daily. It’s rewarding to see that our high level of compassionate service is appreciated yet again,” said Abe Lopman, ORMC executive director.

ORMC is one of 152 hospitals selected nationwide to receive this honor. The recognition places ORMC alongside institutions including Johns Hopkins University Hospital, Yale-New Haven Hospital, Cleveland Clinic Foundation and the Mayo Clinic.

Since 1996, NRC has bestowed awards annually on the nation’s top hospitals. More than 140,000 households in the contiguous 48 states and the District of Columbia responded to the 2002 survey.

Participants answered questions about: health plans, physician and hospital satisfaction assessments; community health needs, health status and chronic condition profiles; consumer trust and confidence in healthcare; hospital image and preference ratings; and alternative medicine usage.

Add a bit of flour, tomato sauce, pepperoni and love…

9/20/2002 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, FL (September 20, 2002) --- This Tuesday, September 24, California Pizza Kitchen in the Florida Mall will donate 100 percent of pizza sales to Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children & Women.

“Strong community support from fundraising efforts like the debut celebration of California Pizza Kitchen really makes a difference,” says John Bozard, Orlando Regional Healthcare Foundation president. “It is what helps us continue to deliver leading-edge medical care and expand much-needed services for children and women.”

California Pizza Kitchen is located next to Nordstrom in the new wing of Florida Mall on South Orange Blossom Trail. The restaurant features hearth-baked pizzas, pastas, salads, soups and sandwiches. Lunch and dinner are served Monday through Saturday from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma Survivor To Meet Donor Who Saved His Life

9/9/2002 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, FL (September 9, 2002) --- About three thousand miles separated the two men and when Jeff Steiner saved Dave Cavalere’s life, he had no idea who he was.

The Seattle man, whose wife worked as a cancer nurse, had decided to register as a potential bone marrow donor. One day five years ago, he was called to become an actual donor in an effort to save the life of an Orlando man with non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma.

On September 15, Dave will celebrate the 5th anniversary of a bone marrow transplant. As part of the celebration, Jeff and his wife, will travel to Orlando to be with Dave and about 150 of his closest friends.

While donating blood in October 1995, something Dave had done many times, he was told that his iron levels were very low. Two weeks later he came down with flu like symptoms and thought he was merely tired. Not thinking much of it, he called his doctor when he couldn’t shake the bug. A series of medical tests quickly revealed he had non-Hodgkin’s disease, a form of cancer of the lymph nodes.

At 34, Dave had wed his sweetheart, Erlene, in February. The month before they both had completed the Walt Disney World Marathon. Both employees of Orange County, Dave worked as a GIS cartographer; his wife a wellness specialist. Both considered themselves avid outdoorsmen and the diagnosis was shocking.

“I kept wondering how I could contract lymphoma when no one in my family has a history of cancer,” he said.

Dave’s physician quickly sent him to MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando where he endured a six-month regimen of chemotherapy. For a while things seemed to be going well. Dave’s silky blonde hair fell out, his cancer went into remission, and then his hair grew back – curly. He remembers it all too well. “I couldn’t do a thing with it,” he muses. “It had a life of its own.”

Remission soon ended and in January 1997 the cancer returned. After enduring another round of chemotherapy, his physicians led by Dr. David Nyberg, medical oncologist at MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando, made the decision to pursue a bone marrow transplant at MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando in Houston since no compatible donor was found in his family. Once again his hair fell out. This time the curly mane grew back straight, much to Dave’s liking.

Bone marrow is soft, pulpy tissue inside bones that creates blood cells. When it becomes diseased, as it does in lymphoma, treatment consists of destroying it and replacing it with healthy marrow from a compatible donor.

Jeff Steiner remembers the day he received the call. He had signed on as a potential donor because it seemed like the right thing to do. After all, he’d been a blood and platelet donor since high school and his wife worked as a bone marrow transplant nurse at Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center in Seattle. The idea of donating marrow was not an unfamiliar concept in their home.

Since registering, Jeff was contacted on several occasions, but each time his excitement was met with disappointment. No match!

"Then one day the phone rang and it looked like a green light for Dave’s case,” he recalled.

Jeff’s blood was then tested for compatibility and he had several medical exams to make sure he was healthy.

In a procedure done under general anesthetic in a Seattle operating room, 2.2 liters – about two quarts – of bone marrow was harvested from the back of his hips. His body would soon replace it.

After the procedure, he used pain pills and ice packs on his backside.

No ‘Barcalounger Recovery’ allowed, his wife had him walking shortly afterward.

“I’m sure that helped a great deal because I was back to work just four days later. However it was a good month before I didn’t feel like I had been kicked in the hind side by a horse.”

Meanwhile in Houston, Dave anxiously waited. Then on July 25, he and Erlene received the news they had waited to hear. A matching donor had been found.

The marrow in hand, Dave received it in much the same way as someone would receive a blood transfusion – through an IV connected to a port in his upper chest. He says the hardest part of the experience for him was being in isolation for 21 days with no contact from his family other than via the telephone.

The other surprise was learning Jeff lived only 15 minutes from his sister-in-law in Seattle.

“All this time we held out hope and our donor was merely around the corner from a place I’d visited a few times before,” marveled Dave.
Because of confidentiality, Jeff did not learn about Dave until a year later.

Immediately they shared phone calls, letters and met once in Seattle when Dave visited two years ago.

“I’m thrilled to have been able to help someone,” Jeff said recently. “Bone marrow is a renewable resource and I feel so lucky that my marrow was able to help Dave get healthy. I’d give bone marrow for a second transplant if he needed it, and I’m currently an active blood donor, so yes I would do this again.”

Today Dave considers himself very fortunate and takes great pleasure in his life returning to normal. He’s now a freshman at Valencia Community College, taking classes in English Composition 101 and Algebra.

He’s also begun restoring his beloved 1966 Ford Mustang, something he put off after becoming ill.

“Aside from Jeff, my donor, my wife is the most amazing person I’ve ever met,” Dave said. She stuck through it all with me and we’d only been married just a few months when everything happened.”

Perhaps now the Cavaleres will take a much-needed honeymoon.

EVENTS PLANNED TO OBSERVE SEPTEMBER 11

9/6/2002 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, FL (September 6, 2002) --- To commemorate the first anniversary of September 11, several events have been scheduled for the day. The events include:

A moment of silence will be observed at 8:47 a.m., the time the first plane struck World Trade Center Tower One.

All American flags will be flown at half-mast at all Orlando Regional Healthcare facilities.
Team members are invited to wear red, white and blue as a gesture of patriotism.
All team members will be provided with patriotic stickers to wear.

Memorial Services

Orlando Regional Medical Center: Interfaith Memorial Service in Multipurpose Rooms A & B at 8:45 a.m. A remembrance book will be available in the Gary Singleton Memorial Chapel to sign and write your personal thoughts and reflections.

Arnold Palmer Hospital: Remembrance service in the Atrium beginning at 8:40 a.m., with butterfly release outside.

Orlando Regional Lucerne Hospital: Short memorial services (10-15 minutes) will be held in the chapel throughout the day, starting at 7 a.m. and continuing on the hour every hour until 4 p.m. Also there will be a display in the chapel. There will be a moment of silence at approximately 8:47 a.m., and a TV in the cafeteria will broadcast events in New York City as they happen.

Orlando Regional St. Cloud Hospital: A remembrance service will be held from 8:30 to 9 a.m. in the ABC Conference Room. A display case will also be located outside the cafeteria.

Orlando Regional South Seminole Hospital: A special time of observance and remembrance will be held in the morning. A display of poems and prayers and a special remembrance book where people can write their thoughts and prayers will be available in the chapel.

Orlando Regional Sand Lake Hospital: A service of Hope and Healing will take place in the hospital lobby from 8:30 to 9 a.m. A display and a reflection book will be available through the day in the chapel where you may write reflections and/or prayers of peace and hope.

September Is Gynecologic Cancer Month: Know The Warning Signs

9/6/2002 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, FL (September 6, 2002) --- About every six minutes, a woman in the United States is diagnosed with a cancer of the reproductive organs.

With this sobering statistic, doctors at MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando are reminding women of the importance of early detection.

"More than 5,000 women in Florida are diagnosed annually with gynecologic cancers," said Dr. Richard Boothby, director of clinical research and gynecologic oncologist for the Gynecologic Cancer Specialty Section at MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando.

Cancers of the female reproductive tract include ovarian, cervical, uterine, vaginal, or tubal cancer. But even though these are the fourth most common cancers, they do not have to be fatal if women are aware of the warning signs and the importance of early detection. With early detection and education tools, such as PAP and risk assessment tests, these cancers can be detected in early stages and possibly prevented.

Warning signs include:
    * A change in bowel or bladder habits
    * A sore that doesn`t heal
    * Unusual vaginal bleeding or discharge
    * A thickening or lump that causes pain or can be seen or felt
    * Persistent indigestion
    * Pain or pressure in the pelvic area

A woman with any of these symptoms should seek medical attention to determine whether she needs to see a gynecological oncologist, a cancer specialist with training in the areas of cancer of the reproductive organs.

"By catching these cancers in their earliest stages we can cut the death rate by half," said Boothby.

To decrease your chances of developing gynecologic cancer, Boothby advises:

Getting to know your family history. The genetic risk for ovarian cancer can be transmitted through either mother or father, making both family histories equally important.

Conducting a cancer risk assessment. Visit www.wcn.org and complete an online assessment.

Asking questions.

Making an appointment with a gynecologist for an annual exam and Pap test. Some of the most common forms of gynecologic cancers have no symptoms and can only be detected by seeing your gynecologist.

Best Of Park Avenue: Fashion Under The Stars

8/29/2002 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, FL (August 29, 2002) --- High fashion will walk hand-in-hand with breast cancer awareness at the “Best of Park Avenue, Fashion Event” to be held at 7 p.m., Friday, September 27, at Central Park, Park Avenue, Winter Park.

In its second year, the event will raise funds for Women Playing For T.I.M.E., a local grassroots effort of Central Florida women devoted to raising awareness of breast cancer. The Park Avenue Area Association and the City of Winter Park are sponsors of the event.

Debi Rodi, of Nicole Miller, will chair the festivities, and guests will enjoy a cocktail party and fashion show held under air-conditioned tent in the park. Cocktails and a Taste of Park Avenue will be held at 7 p.m., with the fashion show starting at 8:15 p.m. Tickets are $75 and entitle participants to a 20 percent discount on merchandise from participating merchants during the month of October. For more information, call 407-628-0400.

T.I.M.E., which began in 1993, has raised nearly $4 million for breast cancer research, education and treatment at MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando. Through various fundraisers, including annual golf and tennis tournaments, T.I.M.E. has pledged $800,000 for a helical tomotherapy radiation treatment unit. When installed this fall, MD Anderson -- Orlando will be one of four centers in the world, and only the second in the United States, to possess the groundbreaking technology.

Helical tomotherapy combines a computed tomography (CT) scan with intensity modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) to deliver precise radiation to cancerous tumors without harming surrounding healthy tissue. The new leading-edge technology allows doctors to see an image of the tumor as treatment is delivered to ensure the most accurate dose of radiation possible.

Howie D. Visits Arnold Palmer Hospital to Launch Lupus Support Group

8/23/2002 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, FL (August 23, 2002) --- Four years ago, when Howie D. of The Backstreet Boys lost his sister Caroline to lupus, he gained a renewed sense of family and began helping patients and their loved ones battle the disease. Now, as part of his family`s ongoing efforts to help fight lupus, Howie D., sister/recording artist Pollyanna and his mother Paula visited Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children & Women on Friday, August 23, to launch the Dorough Lupus Foundation Support Group. The Dorough family members will meet with lupus patients and medical staff during their visit. The Dorough Lupus Foundation Support Group is targeted primarily for pre-teens and teens with lupus and their family members. The support group will meet for the first time Tuesday, Aug. 27, from 7 to 8:30 p.m. in the Conference Dining Room on the first floor of Arnold Palmer Hospital, 92 W. Miller St. The Dorough Lupus Foundation is an independent, not-for-profit organization that was started by Dorough and his family shortly after his sister’s death. The Foundation`s goals are to aid in research, education of the public and to provide financial assistance to organizations that help individuals living with lupus that cannot afford treatment. The Dorough Lupus Foundation Support Group is the vision of Howie`s mom, Paula Dorough (fondly called Mama D), who seeks to improve the lives of youth touched by lupus.

Lupus is a chronic inflammatory disease that can affect various parts of the body, especially the skin, joints, blood, and kidneys. It is estimated that approximately 1.4 million Americans have a form of lupus. Although lupus can strike men and women of all ages, 90 percent of individuals diagnosed with the disease are women, and 80 percent of those afflicted with systemic lupus develop it between the ages of 15 and 45.

The Dorough Lupus Foundation Support Group will meet regularly at 7 p.m. on the fourth Tuesday each month at the hospital. For more information about the support group or to make reservations to attend the meeting, call the Dorough Lupus Foundation Support Group at (407) 896-6187 or toll-free at (866) 448-2353. To learn more about lupus or the Dorough Lupus Foundation visit www.doroughlupusfoundation.org.

Hug-Me Program Awarded Grant From Health & Human Services Department

8/7/2002 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, FL (August 7, 2002) --- HUG-Me (Help Understand and Guide Me), a pediatric HIV/AIDS program, will receive a $772,034 grant from the United States Department of Health and Human Services (HSS) at 1:30 p.m., Thursday, August 8, at the HUG-ME Clinic, located at 2nd Floor, 1315 S. Orange Avenue.

Bobby Jindal, HHS assistant secretary for Planning and Evaluation, and Chris McCabe, HHS director of Intergovernmental Affairs, will tour the facility and present the award to Dr. Catherine Lamprecht, HUG-ME pediatric medical director.

HUG-Me offers HIV/AIDS medical care, counseling, outreach, advocacy and a full range of family support services. The program, which operates as part of the Howard Phillips Center for Children & Families, a part of Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children & Women, is funded by the Ryan White CARE ACT, Titles I, II, III and IV.

Originally begun as a pediatric AIDS program, HUG-Me boasts a zero transmission rate from infected mother to child, since its inception in 1998. In four years, no child, out of more than 200 born in the program, has contracted HIV when born to a mother with HIV.

HUG Me has expanded the scope of services and clients each year and now cares for babies, toddlers, teens, young adults and older adults both male and female. In addition to caring for mental, physical and psychosocial needs of community members affected by HIV/AIDS, HUG-Me works to instill hope to those infected and affected.

Several HUG-Me clients have lived with HIV/AIDS for more than a decade and one client has lived with HIV for more than 21 years.

The Howard Phillips Center for Children & Families is a cooperative partnership between Arnold Palmer Hospital and numerous public and private agencies throughout the community. The center aims to build a stronger community: one child, one individual, one family at a time, by promoting healthy child development, responding to and preventing child abuse, offering hope to HIV-positive children and families, and providing health care to uninsured, under served and at-risk teens.

Arnold Palmer Hospital Hosts Fourth Annual Miracle Miles Run

7/30/2002 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, Fla. (July 30, 2002) --– More than 2,000 runners are expected to participate in the fourth annual Miracle Miles Run taking place at 7 a.m., Saturday, Aug. 31, at Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children & Women. Proceeds benefit the hospital’s neonatal intensive care unit (NICU).

The Miracle Miles Run includes both a 5K and a 15K run, with the 5K starting at 7 a.m. and the 15K starting at 7:30 a.m. A Kids Fun Run will begin at 9 a.m. The events will start in front of Arnold Palmer Hospital at 92 W. Miller St. at the corner of Miller Street and Kuhl Avenue. Entry fees range from $15 to $25, depending upon date of registration. For more information, call 407-898-1313 or register on-line at www.trackshack.com.

Dr. Gregor Alexander, Arnold Palmer Hospital neonatologist and one of the hospital’s founding physicians, established the run in 1998. Many participants are former NICU patients.

Former Patient Contributes To Saving Lives

7/26/2002 12:00:00 AM

Orlando, FL (July 26, 2002) --- Kelly Morin, a fifth grade student and former patient at Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children & Women, recently presented the hospital’s neonatal intensive care unit with a $500 donation. This is the second year in a row that she has donated birthday gifts to the unit.

Morin, a straight “A” student from Lake Worth, was born on June 2, 1992. Weighing only five pounds and suffering from respiratory distress and transient hypoglycemia, she was placed under the care of Dr. David Auerbach. Although she was born five weeks premature, Morin made a full recovery and was discharged nine days later.

To show her appreciation and celebrate her birthday, Morin requested money in lieu of gifts to give to the hospital. When asked why she did this commendable deed, she replied, “I just wanted to help save the lives of other little babies like they did mine.”

MD Anderson Named Nation`s Top Cancer Hospital

7/12/2002 12:00:00 AM

For the second time in three years, MD Anderson is ranked the nation`s top cancer hospital in U.S. News and World Report`s "America`s Best Hospitals" survey published in the magazine`s July 22 issue.

In addition to the number one ranking in cancer, several MD Anderson specialties were ranked among the nation`s best, including gynecology (4), urology (12), ear, nose and throat (8), neurology and neurosurgery (30) and digestive disorders (40).

MD Anderson has ranked as one of the top two hospitals in cancer care since the magazine began its annual survey 13 years ago in 1990.

MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando, part of Orlando Regional Healthcare, was the first outreach program of The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando in Houston. This fall MD Anderson -– Orlando will open the doors to a new 220,000-square-foot, state-of-the-art comprehensive multidisciplinary cancer center. All areas of expertise
–- expert medical staff, research, technology, treatments, inpatient and outpatient care –- will be housed in one location.

The survey is conducted for U.S.News by the National Opinion Research Center at The University of Chicago. The rankings are based upon a survey of board-certified physicians around the country, patient survival data and various indicators such as the ratio of nurses to inpatient beds and technologies available to patients.

ORMC and MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando Named As ‘America’s Best Hospitals’

7/12/2002 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, FL (July 12, 2002) --- Each year thousands of Central Floridians choose Orlando Regional Medical Center (ORMC) to care for their hearts, manage their diabetes and help in their battle with cancer. Once again U.S. News & World Report has chosen ORMC as one of "America`s Best Hospitals."

Out of 50 hospitals ranked nationwide, ORMC placed 25th in the nation in cardiac care and 46th in hormonal disorders (diabetes and thyroid conditions).

The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando, Houston was ranked as the nation’s top facility for cancer care. In addition to the number one ranking in cancer, several MD Anderson specialties were ranked among the nation`s best, including gynecology (4), urology (12), ear, nose and throat (8), neurology and neurosurgery (30) and digestive disorders (40). MD Anderson has ranked as one of the top two hospitals in cancer care since the magazine began its annual survey 13 years ago in 1990.

MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando is the first outreach facility of MD Anderson Houston and shares treatments, education, research, technology and advancements in the fight against cancer. This fall MD Anderson -– Orlando will open the doors to a new 220,000-square-foot, state-of-the-art comprehensive multidisciplinary cancer center. All areas of expertise -– expert medical staff, research, technology, treatments, inpatient and outpatient care -– will be housed in one location.

“We are proud of our ongoing achievements in cardiac care,” said Dr. Arnold Einhorn, M.D., cardiology chair at Orlando Regional. “With advances in technology, procedures, medicines, and patient education programs we remain committed to discovering new ways to diagnose and treat heart disease. With our community outreach programs we strive to prevent heart disease - the leading cause of death for men and women in America.”

“To be ranked among the very best hospitals in critical specialties like cardiology, endocrinology and oncology is a reflection of the talent and commitment of our physicians, nurses, healthcare professionals and staff members who are dedicated to providing excellent care and education to our patients and community,” said Abe Lopman, executive director, ORMC. “On a day-to-day basis our team members combine knowledge and expertise with compassion and care to treat patients and improve their quality of life.”

ORMC was selected after a review of 6,045 hospitals nationwide. From there 1,958 met the publication’s criteria for further assessment. Of the 1,958 hospitals assessed, only 205 scored high enough to be ranked in 17 specialty categories.

To be eligible for ranking in any of the 17 specialties, a hospital had to meet at least one of three standards: affiliation with a medical school, membership in the Council of Teaching Hospitals, or provide at least 9 out of 17 prescribed technological services.

ORMC and MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando are part of Orlando Regional Healthcare.

Save Your Skin: Learn the Facts about Skin Cancer

7/9/2002 12:00:00 AM

WHO: Orlando Regional South Seminole Hospital & MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando.

WHAT: Skin Cancer Prevention Presentation & Spot Check
* Learn the facts about skin cancer
* Discover what changes to look for
* Find out how to reduce your risk and protect yourself

WHERE: South Seminole Hospital, Classroom 103, 521 State Road 434, Longwood

WHEN: Tuesday, July 16 – 10 a.m.

WHY: Because skin cancer cases are on the rise among teens and young adults, South Seminole Hospital and MD Anderson -– Orlando will host a skin cancer prevention presentation and spot check.

This year, in Florida, more than 4000 new cases of melanoma are expected. Melanoma –- the deadliest form of skin cancer -– now ranks as the most common cancer among people ages 25 to 29. Research shows 90 percent of sun damage occurs before the age of 18. While skin cancer is the most common form of cancer, it is also the most preventable.

New MD Anderson -- Orlando Doctor Brings Prostate Cancer Expertise

6/26/2002 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, FL (June 26, 2002) - A leader in the field of radiation oncology and prostate cancer, Dr. Patrick Kupelian has joined the staff of MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando. Kupelian, who specializes in genitourinary (bladder, kidney) malignancies and urologic (prostate) malignancies, is the former director of clinical research and chief of genitourinary malignancies for the Cleveland Clinic Foundation in Cleveland, Ohio, and an assistant professor of radiology at Ohio State University. The author of numerous articles, Kupelian serves as a reviewer for the Journal of Clinical Oncology, Internal Journal of Radiation, Oncology Biology Physics, Urology, and Cancer. Additionally, he has lectured at many conferences and professional association meetings. Kupelian received his medical degree from American University of Beirut and interned at American University of Beirut Medical Center. He completed his residency in radiation oncology at The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando in Houston and his fellowship in radiation oncology at the Cleveland Clinic Foundation. He is a member of the American Society for Therapeutic Radiology and Oncology, American Society of Clinical Oncology and American Urological Association. In November, MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando will move into a new 220,000-square-foot, state-of-the-art, comprehensive cancer facility.

Orlando Regional Healthcare Mourns The Loss Of Dr. N. Donald Diebel, Jr.

6/24/2002 12:00:00 AM

Orlando Regional Healthcare and Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children & Women mourn the loss of Dr. N. Donald Diebel, Jr., who was tragically killed Saturday, June 8, while attempting to aid victims of an automobile accident.

Dr. Diebel practiced obstetrics and gynecology with his father, Dr. Donald Diebel, Sr., at OB & GYN Specialists in Winter Park. Additionally, he was a clinical faculty member in the Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology at Arnold Palmer Hospital.

Dr. Diebel received his bachelor’s degree from the University of Notre Dame and his medical degree from the University of South Florida College of Medicine. He completed his residency and internship at the University of South Florida and Tampa General Hospital. He was a member of the American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology, American Board of Obstetrics and Gynecology and the American Medical Association.

A memorial service is planned for 7:30 a.m., Friday, June 28, at the Lake Beauty entrance of Arnold Palmer Hospital.

In lieu of flowers, the family has requested that donations be made in memory of Dr. Don Diebel, Jr. to Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children & Women Foundation, 92 West Miller Street, Orlando, FL 32806.
###

Serving Up A Cure At 9th Annual Women Playing For TIME Tennis Tournament

5/22/2002 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, FL (May 22, 2002) --- This fall Central Florida women will take to the courts October 21-22 to defeat breast cancer during the 9th Annual Women Playing For TIME Tennis Tournament at The Racquet Club at Heathrow Country Club -- 1200 Bridgewater Drive, Heathrow.

A “Warm-up with the Pros,” hosted by area tennis professionals, will be held Monday morning (10/21) with the tournament beginning at 11 a.m. On Tuesday (10/22), round two matches will resume at 8:30 a.m. An awards luncheon will be held following the tournament. Registration is $300. For more information, call (321) 843-4069.

Proceeds benefit MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando. The event, along with a golf tournament, is expected to raise $800,000 toward the purchase of a helical tomotherapy system.

Helical tomotherapy combines a computed tomography (CT) scan with intensity modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) to deliver precise radiation to cancerous tumors without harming surrounding healthy tissue. This new leading-edge technology allows doctors to see the tumor as treatment is being delivered and deliver the most accurate dose of radiation possible.

MD Anderson -- Orlando will be one of four sites in the world to possess helical tomotherapy when the new state-of-the-art comprehensive cancer center opens in November.

Since 1993, Women Playing For TIME (Technology, Immediate Diagnosis, Mammography and Education) has raised more than $4 million toward breast cancer research and education at MD Anderson - Orlando. The group’s accomplishments include establishing a state-of-the-art breast cancer screening, diagnostic and treatment center; educational outreach programs; funding research for prevention, treatment and a cure for breast cancer; and raising hope for women afflicted by breast cancer.

Patient Simulator Provides Real-Life Lessons

5/13/2002 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, FL (May 13, 2002) --- If it looks like a human and acts like a human, it has to be human. Right? Not always. Orlando Regional Healthcare has a Human Patient Simulator that behaves like a human in many ways, but is actually a high-tech mannequin wired for medical simulation.

Not your typical Annie doll, or other training mannequin without interactive capabilities, Stan D’Ardman (Standard man), has more to share than lessons in CPR. Stan, a 33-year-old weighing 150 pounds, breathes in air and exhales carbon dioxide just as humans do. A computer program even allows Stan to experience quite a few life altering events – a sudden heart attack, a collapsed lung, a diabetic emergency, hypovolemic shock – and live to tell about it.

Stan, who also has human reactions to CPR, intravenous drugs, ventilation, catheterization, intubation and other procedures, is part of a training partnership between Orlando Regional and Orlando Tech.

“Stan helps train nurses in various disciplines, trauma physicians and anesthesiologists,” said Holly Murphy, program coordinator for Orlando Tech. “An HPS is a wonderful tool for learning and evaluation. After each scenario we are able to debrief and determine areas of improvement.”

Stan is used for initial and continuing training opportunities in one-on-one and group settings.
“Stan offers hands-on learning in a patient care environment,” said Cindy Love, RN, director of education and development at Orlando Regional. “This type of training compliments skills labs and other courses we continue to offer to healthcare professionals.”

As an in-patient, Stan has a room of his own, complete with monitoring equipment, intravenous therapy stands and other common medical devices. Trainees are able to assess Stan’s beating heart, rising
chest, breathing sounds, his active pulse points and urinary output and view his vital signs displayed on a monitor.

Because Stan is constantly being put to the test without complaints or tiring, and is flexible enough to fit just about any patient profile – woman, man, young, old, good health, sick – he is the ideal learning tool.

Though Stan plays a big role in practice scenarios the focus is not limited to his reactions.

“When we have a group, we have some staff play the roles of family members who sometimes help in delivering medical history information,” said Love. “We also have staff conducting other nursing duties outside of direct patient contact.”

Once the practice scenario is over, there is a debriefing session to discuss alternatives to addressing the patient`s needs.

“The many scenarios we create are very beneficial to staff,” said Murphy. “We constantly hear from nurses and doctors how prepared they are when the training scenario in the lab becomes reality in the units.”

Stan joined the staff in August 2000 and is used by individuals and small groups on a daily basis. To date, more than 1,100 team members have trained with Stan’s help.

MD Anderson--Orlando Treats Lymphoma Patient With New Radioimmunotherapy

5/7/2002 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, FL (May 7, 2002) --- Physicians at MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando and Orlando Regional Medical Center have administered Zevalin™, the first radioimmunotherapy medication recently approved by the Food & Drug Administration to treat a non-Hodgkin`s lymphoma patient. The Central Florida man is the first in the area to receive the new drug.

“Zevalin represents a completely new area of cancer treatment by radioactively tagging antibodies to seek out a tumor and then destroy it,” said Alan Forbes, M.D., Ph.D., radiation oncologist, lymphoma section, MD Anderson - Orlando.

When injected into a patient with B-cell non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma, Zevalin circulates through the body until it locates and binds with a protein found on the surface of specific cells. It then delivers radiation to these and neighboring cells to damage them.

The drug is used for treating relapsed or refractory low-grade lymphomas. These lymphomas generally respond well to current chemotherapy and biotherapy treatments, but are often followed by relapses.

“This is a unique medication in treating lymphomas because of its mechanism of action and effectiveness,” said Dr. Jose Sarriera, medical oncologist, lymphoma section, MD Anderson - Orlando.

“In two studies, patients showed a response rate of 70 to 80 percent with a complete remission rate of 15 to 30 percent. Additionally, Zevalin produces minimal side effects and is well tolerated by patients.”

Doug Strawn, 57, is the first patient in Central Florida to receive Zevalin. An Orlando resident, he was diagnosed in November 1999 and was initially treated with chemotherapy and Rituxanâ. Strawn was a founding member of the musical group, The Carpenters. He is a patient of Dr. Jose Pino y Torres, MD Anderson - Orlando radiation oncologist.

Lymphomas are cancers of the lymphocytes, white blood cells that are crucial in helping the body fight off infection. The lymph system is made up of lymph vessels, thin tubes that branch, like blood vessels, into all parts of the body. Lymph vessels carry lymph, a colorless, watery fluid that contains lymphocytes. Along the network of vessels are groups of small, bean-shaped organs called lymph nodes.

Clusters of lymph nodes are found in the underarm, pelvis, neck and abdomen. Because lymph tissue is found in many parts of the body, non-Hodgkin`s lymphoma can start almost anywhere. The cancer can spread to almost any organ or tissue in the body, including the liver, bone marrow (the spongy tissue inside the large bones of the body that makes blood cells) and spleen.

Aware…Prepared…Safe! A Self-Defense/Sexual Assault Safety Workshop

4/3/2002 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, FL (April 3, 2002) --- Because sexual assault occurs every 90 seconds, "Aware… Prepared… Safe! A Self-Defense/Sexual Assault Safety Workshop" will be offered at 5:30 p.m., Wednesday, April 17, at the Expo Center, Orlando Centroplex, Room 200, 500 W. Livingston Street, Orlando.

The workshop – free and open to the public – is sponsored by The Sexual Assault Treatment Center and The Healing Tree/Sexual Trauma Recovery Center at the Howard Phillips Center for Children & Families.

"More than 12,000 sexual assaults occur annually in Florida and one in four women will be the victim of a sexual assault," said Mark Johnson, program manager at The Healing Tree/Sexual Trauma Recovery Center, a part of The Howard Phillips Center. "With statistics like these, our goal is to teach men and women to be more aware of their surroundings and educate them about personal safety."

Officers from the Orlando Police Department will take part in the presentation, which will include information and statistics about sexual violence, strategies and techniques for self-defense, personal safety and sexual assault prevention.

In addition to the workshop, sexual assault awareness posters will be distributed to downtown Orlando bars, nightclubs and restaurants to remind men and women to stay safe and warn them about date rape and date rape drug abuse. The workshop is part of a national initiative that includes the observance of April as Sexual Assault Awareness Month and designation of April 17 as Sexual Assault Awareness Day in Florida.

The Howard Phillips Center for Children & Families is a cooperative partnership between Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children & Women and numerous public and private agencies throughout the community. The center aims to build a stronger community: one child, one individual, one family at a time, by promoting healthy child development, responding to and preventing child abuse, offering hope to HIV-positive children and families, and providing health care to uninsured, under served and at-risk teens.

First Central Florida Patient Receives GliaSite® Radiation Therapy for Brain Tumors

3/28/2002 12:00:00 AM

Orlando, FL (March 28, 2002) --- Physicians at MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando and Orlando Regional Medical Center (ORMC) have treated a 69-year-old brain tumor patient with a new procedure that irradiates cancerous cells from within the tumor cavity.

Known as the GliaSite® Radiation Therapy System – recently approved by the Food & Drug Administration – the procedure accelerates treatment time and results in few serious side effects. MD Anderson – Orlando and ORMC are the first Central Florida hospitals to offer the procedure.

"GliaSite represents an important new treatment option for malignant brain tumors," said Dr. Wayne Jenkins, radiation oncologist and medical director, MD Anderson – Orlando.

"Until now, treatment options for patients with recurrent brain tumors have been extremely limited. Radiation combined with surgery is the single most effective treatment, and GliaSite allows us to deliver additional radiation to these tumors, while minimizing the risks associated with higher doses of external beam radiation."

Internal radiation therapy for brain tumors (also known as brachytherapy, localized radiation, or implant radiation) involves placing a source of radiation directly into the tumor or the tissue surrounding the tumor. Until recently, brachytherapy has involved the placement of a large number of radiation "seeds" (about the size of a grain of rice) directly into the cancerous tissue using numerous catheters (tubes).

The major benefit of internal radiation is that a high dose of radiation may be given directly to the tumor site. The radiation is targeted in the area most likely to contain cancer. At the same time, healthy tissue around the tumor is less likely to be damaged by radiation.

During surgery, a neurosurgeon positions the balloon portion of the GliaSite catheter within the cavity created by removing the malignant brain tumor. The other end of the catheter extends outside the skull and is concealed underneath the skin at the top of the head. When the patient has recovered from surgery, Iotrex®, a proprietary liquid radiation source, is injected into the catheter and fills the balloon. After delivering a specific dose of radiation over a period of three to seven days, the Iotrex is withdrawn and the balloon catheter is removed during a brief surgical procedure.

The American Cancer Society estimates that 16,500 patients in the United States will be diagnosed this year with malignant primary brain tumors. Nearly all will experience tumor regrowth after initial treatment. Additionally, research suggests approximately 170,000 patients will be diagnosed with metastatic tumors that originate elsewhere in the body and migrate to the brain.

Traditionally, patients are first treated with external beam radiation therapy, in which the radiation travels from outside the body to the tumor site, passing through healthy brain tissue. While this treatment is proven to suppress tumor regrowth, a second course of external beam radiation is rarely an option due to the high risk of damage to healthy tissue.

Treatment for patients with recurrent tumors has been extremely limited. GliaSite will enable patients to receive additional radiation, while minimizing the risks. Also, GliaSite can be used in combination with external beam radiation when treating newly diagnosed tumors, and in combination with surgical removal of metastatic brain tumors.

"It`s a significant advancement to be able to offer our patients a therapy that delivers radiation directly to the site of the cancer, while maintaining the quality of life for patients by completing the treatment in just one week," elaborated Jenkins.

Dr. Jenkins and Dr. Phillip St. Louis, neurosurgeon, performed the procedure.

Based in Alpharetta, Georgia, Proxima Therapeutics, Inc. is a privately held medical device company established in 1995 to develop site-specific cancer treatment systems for breast and brain tumors. In addition to GliaSite, Proxima has developed the MammoSite, a site-specific radiation treatment for breast cancer that recently completed clinical trials. Proxima`s technology for breast and brain tumors also may have applications for treating other solid tumors. Additional information is available on the company`s web site at www.gliasite.com.

Q. Why may the GliaSite® RTS help in brain cancer treatment?
A. Studies have shown that radiation therapy after tumor removal surgery extends survival in patients with malignant brain tumors. The GliaSite® RTS delivers radiation therapy from the inside. This places the radiation closest to the tissue most likely to still have cancer cells. It also reduces radiation exposure to healthy brain tissue.

Q. How will this treatment affect healthy brain tissue?
A. By placing the GliaSite RTS inside the brain, radiation travels from the inside of the tumor resection cavity out to targeted tissue. This minimizes radiation exposure to healthy brain tissue.

Q. Are there any known complications and/or side effects?
A. In clinical trials, complications were comparable to those of other brain cancer treatments. Common side effects included headache, constipation, insomnia and nausea.

Q. How long will the device be implanted?
A. Typically the device is implanted anywhere between 3 days and 7 days, depending on your course of treatment.

Q. Will I be in the hospital during treatment?
A. Currently, most patients remain in the hospital during the entire time they are being treated with the GliaSite RTS, approximately 3 to 7 days.

Q. What if the fluid leaks out of the balloon while implanted?
A. During treatment, the GliaSite balloon catheter is inflated with saline (salt water) and Iotrex®, a liquid radiation source. For additional safety, there is actually a second balloon that envelops the balloon containing the Iotrex™. In the unlikely event that a leak occurs through both balloons, the fluid will be flushed quickly out of your body. Iotrex is designed to be quickly eliminated through urine. Studies have verified the rapid urinary clearance without radiation effects to other organs.

MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando President Is "The Man" In Central Florida

3/22/2002 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, FL (March 22, 2002) -– Dr. Clarence H. "Buck" Brown III, President/CEO of MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando, has been named "Man of the Year" by the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society, Central Florida Chapter.

"I`m honored to be named the Society`s `man of the year`. However the real men and women of the year are those people – the medical community, social workers, family members, etc. – who provide excellent and compassionate care for anyone dealing with these diseases," said Brown, a hematologist/oncologist.

For the past eight weeks, Central Florida business, healthcare and community leaders, have raised funds in honor of the society`s "Boy and Girl of the Year": Thomas Giallella and Christina Bowers. Through employee-sponsored events, including a "Bucks for Buck" drive, Brown, the top fund-raiser in the male category, raised more than $12,000.

He and Karen Ferrell, the Society`s "Woman of the Year" were honored earlier this week for their achievements. More than $50,000 was raised for the Society`s patient services and research.

"We see patients daily who are battling leukemia, lymphoma and other blood-related diseases, so we know how important it is to explore every avenue available to find cures," elaborated Brown.

Central Florida Women Recognized As Women Who Mean Business

3/22/2002 12:00:00 AM

Orlando, FL (March 22, 2002) --- Orlando Regional Healthcare and the Orlando Business Journal have named 10 Central Florida women as recipients of the 2002 Women Who Mean Business awards.

"We created the awards to recognize Central Florida`s finest examples of women who have successfully bridged the gap between work responsibilities and family life," said Barbara Stuart, vice president, communications and marketing for Orlando Regional.

Recipients of the 2002 awards include:

* Linda Costa, Word Wise – 2002 Businesswoman of the Year
* Terry Whaples, Holiday Inn Family Suites Resorts
* Jane Hames, Lowndes, Drosdick, Doster, Kantor & Reed
* Linda Goodwin-Nickols, Goodwin Realty and Associates
* Dora Casanova de Toro, La Presna Newspaper
* Betty Bruisma, Colonial Medical Supplies
* Beverly Kitaoka, Science Applications Inter. Corp.
* Maureen Brockman, EDC
* Dr. Rebecca Moroose, Florida Hospital Cancer Institute
* Leila Nodarse, Nodarse and Associates

Created in 1998, the award recognizes women for significant workplace accomplishments, business leadership, community involvement and entrepreneurial vision.

Orlando Regional Healthcare Executive Earns Fellow Status

3/21/2002 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, FL (March 21, 2002) -– Rick Schooler, vice president and chief information officer for Orlando Regional Healthcare, has advanced to Fellow status in the American College of Healthcare Executives (ACHE), an international professional society representing nearly 30,000 healthcare executives.

The announcement was made this week in Chicago at ACHE`s 68th Annual Convocation Ceremony during the 2002 Congress on Healthcare Management.

Fellow status is the highest level of professional achievement in ACHE, and currently, about 3,000 healthcare executives have earned Fellow status in the United States. To achieve this status, affiliates must demonstrate education, experience and leadership in healthcare over several years. Additionally, they must complete a significant project on a subject related to healthcare management.

At Orlando Regional, Schooler oversees the information systems and telecommunications functions. His priorities include strengthening Orlando Regional`s reputation as a leader in the cost-effective use of information technology to support excellent patient care.

Reach Out And Read To Receive $10,000 Grant

3/20/2002 12:00:00 AM

Orlando, FL (March 19, 2002)-– The Reach Out and Read pediatric literacy program at Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children & Women has received a $10,000 check from the Starbucks Foundation.

"The Starbucks donation will enable us to purchase books throughout the year for our patients at the pediatric outpatient clinic," said Dr. Debbie Andree, project manager.

"We are delighted to offer this Starbucks Foundation grant to celebrate literacy in our community," said Alan Sakoff, Starbucks district manager.

Reach Out and Read is an excellent connection to the world of books for children, and Starbucks is excited about helping make a difference for them right here in our neighborhood."

Starting with the six-month checkup and every checkup to age 5, children receive books that are developmentally, culturally and age appropriate. Books are written in English, French Creole and Spanish.

During clinic visits, volunteers read stories with children and their families while they wait. Once in the exam room, pediatricians talk with parents about the importance of reading aloud and offer tips on selecting books. Sometimes parents even receive prescriptions to read to their children nightly.

"Many families in our community can`t afford to purchase books and others may not realize the importance of early exposure to reading. So, this program is particularly needed in Central Florida and has a positive effect on everyone involved."

Reach Out and Read began locally at Arnold Palmer Hospital in September 2000. Since then more than 7000 books have been given to area preschoolers. Arnold Palmer Hospital`s program is part of a national pediatric literacy program, which began in 1989 at Boston Medical Center.

"If you teach a child to read, there`s no end to the accomplishments he or she can achieve," elaborated Andree.

ORMC Employee Elected Chairperson for Society of Critical Care Medicine

3/18/2002 12:00:00 AM

Orlando, FL (March 18, 2002) --- Daleen Aragon, Ph.D, CCRN, FCCM, clinical nurse research scientist for Orlando Regional Medical Center, has been elected as chairperson for the nursing section of the Society of Critical Care Medicine.

As section chair, Aragon will work with the leadership team to accomplish strategic goals. Additionally, she will represent the section in legislative meetings in Washington D.C. to address the nursing shortage and its impact on critical care.

Inducted as a fellow of the society in 1999, Aragon also has been appointed to the planning committee for the annual International Critical Care Congress meeting.

MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando Appoints New Board Member

2/13/2002 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, FL (February 13, 2002) – MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando recently appointed Harvey L. Burnett, of Dr. Phillips Inc., to the board of directors. Burnett has been associated with Dr. Phillips Inc. for nearly 30 years and currently serves as assistant secretary/treasurer.

Burnett also serves as director of the Orange County Public Schools Foundation and is a member of the Kiwanis Club of Orlando. Additionally, he is an active member of Delaney Street Baptist Church where he is a deacon.

Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children & Women Names Administrator of Pediatric Cardiovascular Services

2/13/2002 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, FL (February 13, 2002) --- Gidget Ruscetta has been appointed as administrator of pediatric cardiovascular services for Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children & Women. Through a cooperative arrangement with Nemours Children`s Clinic, she will continue in her current role as practice administrator for Nemours Cardiac Center, in addition to her new position.

A long-time veteran with Arnold Palmer Hospital, Ruscetta has served patients in various capacities. She was a nurse in the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit; nurse clinician for infectious disease; clinical nurse coordinator of Pediatric Medical Education; and director of the HUG-ME program.

Orlando Regional South Seminole Hospital Laboratory Receives Accreditation

2/11/2002 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, FL (Feb. 8, 2002) – Orlando Regional South Seminole Hospital Laboratory has been accredited by the Commission on Laboratory Accreditation of the College of American Pathologists (CAP), based on a recent inspection. South Seminole Hospital’s laboratory is one of more than 6,000 CAP-accredited laboratories nationwide.

The CAP Laboratory Accreditation Program, begun in the early 1960s, is recognized by the federal government as being equal to or more stringent than the government’s own inspection program. Inspectors examine: laboratory records and quality over a two-year period; staff members education and qualifications; adequacy of facilities, equipment, laboratory safety and laboratory management to determine how well the laboratory serves patients.

South Seminole Hospital is part of Orlando Regional Healthcare.

MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando To Wield Powerful Weapon For Tumors

2/4/2002 12:00:00 AM

Orlando, FL (February 4, 2002) --- Today, doctors at MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando unveiled an innovative and advanced cancer treatment called Novalis® Shaped Beam Surgery™, for brain, head, neck, spine, liver, lung and prostate tumors.

MD Anderson – Orlando is among the first sites in the United States to offer this advanced radiosurgery technology.

Novalis® Shaped Beam Surgery™ is the non-invasive delivery of a precise dose of high-energy radiation to shrink or control the growth of a tumor by killing tumor cells or interfering with their ability to grow.

Using precise and detailed computer-generated images as well as a highly accurate patient positioning system, the Novalis treatment exactly mirrors the shape and size of a patient`s tumor. Each beam of radiation conforms to the tumor`s exact dimensions, specifically targeting and, unlike conventional beam radiation, treating diseased tissue while leaving surrounding healthy tissue unharmed.

"A shaped beam gives us the highest degree of precision, so we know we`re reaching every part of the tumor from every angle," explained Dr. Wayne Jenkins, radiation oncologist and medical director for MD Anderson – Orlando. "As the tumor changes shape and size during treatment, so does the treatment beam."

The Novalis system expands the capabilities of Intensity Modulated Radiation Therapy (IMRT), which has been used at MD Anderson – Orlando since 1997 to treat tumors in hard-to-reach areas. "This latest technology will enable us to expand the capabilities of IMRT and use radiosurgery for tumors in other areas of the body, including the neck, spine and liver," said Jenkins.

For many patients, traditional surgery may not be suitable or possible because of other illnesses, because tumors are located in inoperable areas, or because of the increased risk of harming critical structures near the tumor.

The Novalis® Shaped Beam Surgery™ treatment requires no incision and the procedure is performed on an outpatient basis, eliminating complications and substantial recovery time associated with open surgery. Patients remain awake for the entire procedure, which is usually completed in just 30 minutes. Additionally, treatment can take place in the morning and patients can return to their normal routines the same day.

"With Novalis, we are able to deliver more intense radiation while sparing healthy surrounding tissue or critical structures that are adjacent to the tumor," elaborated Jenkins.

Orlando Regional Manager Elected Vice President Occupational Health Nurses Association

1/31/2002 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, FL (January 29, 2002) --- Terri Barresi, occupational health manager for Orlando Regional Healthcare, was recently elected vice president of the Central Florida Occupational Health Nurses Association.

As vice president, Barresi will oversee the chapter`s speakers bureau and continuing education programs.

The American Association of Occupational Health Nurses (AAOHN) has 12,5000 members nationwide and 175 state, local, and regional chapters. AAOHN strives to advance the profession of occupational and environmental health nursing as the authority in health, safety, productivity, and disability management for worker populations.

Orlando Regional Launches Women and Heart Disease Initiative

1/31/2002 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, FL (January 28, 2002) --- More women are finding it is not a man`s world when it comes to heart disease — the number one cause of death for women in America. Orlando Regional Healthcare wants to help women in Central Florida make heart disease prevention a top health priority.

Orlando Regional and VHA Inc., a national alliance of 2,200 health care organizations and doctors, are collaborating to implement Women`s HeartAdvantage, a program to raise heart disease awareness; change behaviors of women; and help change the way doctors approach prevention, detection and treatment of heart disease in women. During the next two years, the hospital-based program will include outreach efforts toward local women`s groups, local doctors and the community at large.

"Women`s HeartAdvantage will provide women with tools to communicate more effectively with their physicians, as well as educate them about the warning signs of heart disease and heart attack symptoms commonly seen in women," said Abe Lopman, vice president, acute care and executive director, Orlando Regional Medical Center and Lucerne Hospital. "To reach women in our community, we will distribute information cards to local doctors` offices, host community heart risk assessment screenings and disseminate additional information through our active Speaker`s Bureau. Also we will work more closely with doctors to encourage doctor-patient discussions about risk factors and testing."

To begin the program, Orlando Regional and VHA Inc. recently completed a study on Central Florida women`s heart disease awareness and attitudes. Market Strategies, Inc. facilitated focus groups and randomly interviewed, via telephone, 299 women ages 40 to 70. The study showed:

-81 percent qualify as being at risk for heart disease, having one or more primary risk factors for heart disease, such as high blood pressure or high cholesterol.

-Yet, only 28 percent indicated that they considered them to be at risk for heart disease or heart attack.

"Our research shows a strong disconnect for women and heart disease," said Dr. Arnold Einhorn, cardiology chairman at Orlando Regional. "We want to help women develop the same level of understanding and concern of heart disease as many women have for breast cancer."

A Message From The Heart: 2002 Valentine Collection Now Available

1/28/2002 12:00:00 AM

Proceeds benefit pediatric cancer patients in Central Florida ORLANDO, FL (January 28, 2002) ---

This Valentine`s Day give your sweetie a heart-felt card from the Children`s Art Project at MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando in Houston and Orlando.

Whisper sweet nothings with whimsical fish, butterflies, birds and other members of the animal kingdom, along with patriotic stars and hearts and a red-sailed boat.

The cards, 10 blank notes for $8, or 32 miniature cards for $4, are perfect for children`s school parties. The 2002 Valentine collection is available in the gift shops at Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children & Women, Orlando Regional Medical Center and South Lake Hospital in Clermont.

The Children`s Art Project began in 1974 at MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando Houston and expanded to MD Anderson – Orlando in 1993. More than $750,000 has been raised locally to fund patient programs in Orlando, including support groups, college scholarships and stays at The Boggy Creek Gang Camp.

"Operation PaintFest" Brings Comfort & Hope To Arnold Palmer Hospital

1/25/2002 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, FL (January 23, 2002) --- The imaginations of hospitalized kids at Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children & Women will serve as a source of inspiration during “Operating PaintFest: Creating Brighter Children’s Hospitals” on Wednesday, January 23.

Walls and ceilings will be brightly enhanced with the artistic signature of youngsters who are helping paint approximately four large canvas murals and 750 ceiling tiles – rich with a butterfly, tropical fish and exotic animal palette of colors. Sponsored by The Foundation for Hospital Art in partnership with Pfizer Pediatric Health, the national program is offered to children’s hospitals throughout the country.

“From the perspective of a child, hospitals can feel like infinite corridors and rooms of sterility – an uninviting whitewash of mazes,” explained John Feight, executive director, The Foundation for Hospital Art.

“However, rooms that invite kids to feel like they just opened a brand new jar of paint transport them from the frightening reality of illness to the welcome respite of fantasy.”

The Healing Power of Art

An article in the May 1999 issue of The Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA) showed that psychologically appropriate art substantially affects patient outcomes as high blood pressure, anxiety, intake of pain medication and length of hospital stay.

In particular, nature art was shown to have a beneficial effect on patients experiencing stress and anxiety. The goal of "Operation PaintFest" is to provide similar therapeutic benefits for children’s hospitals throughout the country.

“At Arnold Palmer Hospital, we value art and strive to create an atmosphere that complements the physical and emotional care we provide to our patients,” said Sheri Mosely, program manager, Child Life and Healing Arts.

“‘Operation PaintFest’ lets our patients to play a vital role in creating inspirational and colorful backdrops that will bring comfort to them and, equally as important, to children who enter our doors in the future.”

"Operation PaintFest": How It Works

Working side-by-side with their families, hospital staff and volunteers, patients at Arnold Palmer Hospital will bring nature to life by using pre-drawn and color-coded ceiling tiles and canvas outlines created by The Foundation for Hospital Art.

Once completed, the burst of color painted from a rainbow of butterflies, unexpected texture of tropical fish and discovery of animals happily gazing from the haven of forests, will be permanently displayed in treatment rooms throughout the hospital.

“As a pediatrician, I certainly understand the trepidation children experience in the hospital and wholeheartedly believe art is a comforting refuge for kids who find themselves in unfamiliar surroundings,” said Randall Kaye, MD, Pfizer Pediatric Health.

“Pfizer is proud to partner with The Foundation for Hospital Art and honored to have so many of the company’s employees embrace the real meaning of volunteerism by trading their business attire for art smocks in communities across the country –- side-by-side with the young patients to whom we are dedicated.”

As an official supporter of the 2002 Olympic Winter Games, Pfizer has also
invited Arnold Palmer Hospital to participate in the Sharing Dreams of Victory component of "Operation PaintFest." Additional canvasses, painted during the January 23 event, will travel across the U.S. and become part of an inspirational mural to be displayed at the Salt Lake City games.

The Foundation for Hospital Art (www.hospitalart.com) is a non-profit organization dedicated to comforting people who suffer in hospitals by softening the hard walls and ceilings that surround them during their illness with warm, colorful murals with the help of volunteers worldwide.

As a global leader in health care, Pfizer (www.Pfizer.com) works on the leading edge of medical discovery, searching for innovative health care solutions that help adults and children lead healthier lives. Pfizer’s work has resulted in medicines that treat some of childhood`s most common infections and allergies. In partnership with healthcare professionals, Pfizer Pediatric Health is dedicated to helping America`s children gain better access to the high-quality care they deserve.

HUG-Me Program To Host Open House, Monday, Jan. 14

1/14/2002 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, FL (January 10, 2002) --- An open house to celebrate a new clinic for the HUG-Me Program (Help Understand and Guide Me) will be held Monday, January 14, at 2 p.m., 2nd Floor, 1315 S. Orange Avenue. Tours of the new facility, which will treat about 1,700 clients this year, will be offered.

HUG-Me offers HIV/AIDS medical care, counseling, outreach, advocacy and a full range of family support services. The program, which operates as part of the Howard Phillips Center for Children & Families, a part of Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children & Women, is funded by the Ryan White CARE ACT, Titles I, II, III and IV.

Originally begun as a pediatric AIDS program, HUG-Me boasts a zero transmission rate from infected mother to child, since its inception in 1998. In four years, not one child, out of more than 200 born in the program, has been infected with HIV when born to a mother who has HIV.

"The diagnosis of AIDS is no longer a death sentence," said Alelia Munroe, program manager. "Physicians no longer give a prediction of life expectancy because if people do what they need to do they can live long, normal lives with AIDS, just as if they had diabetes."

HUG Me has expanded the scope of services and clients each year and now cares for babies, toddlers, teens, young adults and older adults both male and female. In addition to caring for mental, physical and psychosocial needs of community members affected by HIV/AIDS, HUG-Me works to instill hope to those infected and affected.

Several HUG-Me clients have lived with HIV/AIDS for more than a decade and at least one client has lived with HIV for more than 21 years.

The Howard Phillips Center for Children & Families is a cooperative partnership between Arnold Palmer Hospital and numerous public and private agencies throughout the community. The center aims to build a stronger community: one child, one individual, one family at a time, by promoting healthy child development, responding to and preventing child abuse, offering hope to HIV-positive children and families, and providing health care to uninsured, under served and at-risk teens.

Know The Warning Signs Of Cervical Cancer

1/8/2002 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, FL (January 8, 2002) --- About 15,000 women are diagnosed with cervical cancer and 5,000 women die of the disease every year in the United States. With early and regular screening, most cases of cervical cancer can be prevented says a doctor at MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando.

"Cervical cancer is a highly curable disease when detected early," said Dr. Richard Boothby, director of Clinical Research and gynecologic oncologist for MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando.

"However, women need more education about cervical cancer, the importance of regular Pap test screening, and current and cutting edge tests for the causes of cervical cancer," elaborated Boothby.

Cervical cancer, which is caused by abnormal cellular changes in the cervix, is the only gynecological cancer that can be prevented by regular screening.

There is now conclusive evidence that the human papillomavirus (HPV) causes cervical cancer. HPV is one of the most common sexually transmitted infections. It is estimated that over 80 percent of women will become infected with HPV at some time. There are over 70 types of HPV, but only 13 key types are currently known to be associated with cervical cancer.

For most women, infection with HPV is without symptoms and their immune system is able to control the virus. However, some women, especially those with persistent infection, may develop pre-cancerous cell changes and even cervical cancer.

Other symptoms of cervical cancer include bleeding after intercourse, excessive discharge and abnormal bleeding between periods.

"A woman with any of these symptoms should seek medical attention to determine whether she needs to see a gynecological oncologist, a cancer specialist with training in the areas of cancer of the reproductive organs," said Boothby.

In addition to the Pap test, a new test that can detect HPV is available to women whose Pap test results are abnormal. This test can tell a woman and her doctor if she is at risk for developing cervical cancer.

With early detection and education, no woman need die from cervical cancer.

Diabetes Education Cruise Takes Learning to the Seas

1/7/2002 12:00:00 AM

Orlando, FL - (January 7, 2002) — Imagine the last seminar you attended when the conference room was cold and there were no windows in sight. Now, imagine a learning environment with gentle tropical breezes, a warm glowing sun and cool refreshing waters. Orlando Regional Healthcare`s Diabetes Education Center has a unique "classroom" headed toward the Bahamas for people with diabetes, their loved ones and health care workers who are interested in learning more about diabetes. The 2nd annual "Cruising for Life" diabetes education cruise is scheduled for June 13-16, 2002.

Diabetes has become one of the most prevalent and silent diseases of today. According to the American Diabetes Association, about 16 million people in the United States who have diabetes and 5 million of those don`t know it.

"With more and more people being diagnosed with diabetes, we wanted to offer diabetes education in a way more interesting than a conference room at a hotel," said Karen Durigan, RN, BSN, MBA, nursing operations manager for the Diabetes Center. "Those who have diabetes can learn ways to take a more active role self-management. Those family members and loved ones who come along gain a better understanding of the disease and how they can assist with care for the person with diabetes. Health care workers who attend are able to receive professional growth and contact hours."

Once aboard ship, participants will learn about advances in diabetes treatment, nutrition, exercise and how diabetes can effect the body.

Space is limited and reservations must be made by February 4, 2002. For more information or to register, contact Sandy Webster at Good Friends Travel Service at (800) 407-0099.

Diabetes is a disease in which the body does not produce or properly use insulin – the hormone needed to change sugar, starches and other foods into the energy needed daily. The two major types of diabetes are Type 1 and Type 2. With Type 1 diabetes, occurring most often in children and young adults, the body does not produce any insulin. Type 2 results from the body not making enough insulin or properly using insulin produced. Though the cause of diabetes is not certain, genetics and environmental factors contribute. Oral medications or insulin injections, along with nutritional and lifestyle changes, are used to treat people with diabetes.

MD Anderson Doctor Named National Cancer Institute Director

12/14/2001 12:00:00 AM

President George W. Bush has named Andrew von Eschenbach, M.D., to head the National Institutes of Health`s National Cancer Institute.

Von Eschenbach comes to NCI from the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center in Houston, where he was director of the Genitourinary Cancer Center and directed the prostate cancer research program. He has also served as vice president for academic affairs at MD Anderson and as executive vice president and chief academic officer.

Lung Cancer Clinical Trial Offered At MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando

12/10/2001 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, FL (December 10, 2001) --- MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando is one of four sites nationwide to conduct a clinical trial using ERBITUX (formerly Cetuximab, IMC-C225), an investigational monoclonal antibody, in combination with two chemotherapy drugs, Carboplatin plus Gemzar (Gemcitabine), for previously untreated stage IV non-small cell lung cancer.

The disease, which strikes more than 164,000 Americans annually, is often fatal and has a very low cure rate.

The drug was developed in part by Dr. John Mendelsohn, president of MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando in Houston. It is being clinically developed by ImClone Systems Incorporated.

Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer-related deaths in both men and women. More people die from lung cancer than breast, colon and prostate cancer combined, and it kills nearly twice as many women each year as does breast cancer.

Non-small cell lung cancer, named for how the cells appear under a microscope, is the most common form of lung cancer. Most lung cancers are detected only when they cause symptoms, by which time the cancer is usually too extensive to be cured. Only 14 percent of those diagnosed with lung cancer live five years.

“Because of the incurable nature of stage IV non-small cell lung cancer, it’s very encouraging to evaluate a novel therapy that may lead to better treatments for such a devastating disease,” said Dr. Jennifer Tseng, principal investigator for the ERBITUX trial at MD Anderson – Orlando.

ERBITUX is designed to target and block the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR), which is expressed on the surface of certain cancer cells. By blocking EGFR, ERBITUX prevents activation of the chemical signal that instructs the tumor cell to grow and divide.

ERBITUX specifically targets cancerous cells, unlike chemotherapy, which is a broader attack treatment that potentially destroys healthy cells along with cancerous ones. Instead, the investigational drug focuses on preventing cancer from fueling its own growth and, therefore, is believed to be synergistic with chemotherapy.

“Despite decades of intensive research with traditional chemotherapy, there haven’t been huge strides in cure rates for stage IV non-small cell lung cancer,” said Tseng. “Targeted drugs, such as ERBITUX, allow us to exploit the biology of cancer cells with the hope of positively impacting treatment outcomes.”

Results have been reported with ERBITUX in clinical trials of patients with colon, pancreatic, head and neck cancers. The combination of ERBITUX and chemotherapy has been found to shrink tumors 50 percent in nearly one-quarter of patients with stage IV colorectal cancer and recurrent head and neck cancers. The most commonly reported common side effect is an acne-like skin rash.

To learn more about the trial at MD Anderson – Orlando, call (407) 648-7899.

Rehabilitation Institute Selected for Shepherd Center Network

12/4/2001 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, FL (November 28, 2001) — Combining more than 50 years of experience in treating patients with spinal cord injury, the Rehabilitation Institute at Orlando Regional Lucerne Hospital and Shepherd Center in Atlanta has announced a formal agreement to provide more specialized spinal cord care for patients in Central Florida who have experienced brain or spinal cord injuries. Orlando Regional Healthcare is the first hospital to participate in the Shepherd Center Network that will later include other sites across the United States.

"For years we have worked closely with Shepherd Center but the formalized agreement allows a greater opportunity to communicate and share information at all levels," said Jo-Ann Bennett, director of the Rehabilitation Institute. "This network agreement makes advance technologies and research findings at Shepherd available to all patients we serve. A collaborative evaluation process determines the best location for each individual patient."

The only Level I trauma center in Central Florida, Orlando Regional Medical Center, handles more than 80,000 emergency visits a year, and many of these patients require rehabilitation. Services offered by Orlando Regional include the Rehabilitation Institute at Lucerne Hospital, a Brain Injury Rehabilitation Center at Orlando Regional Sand Lake Hospital and a network of outpatient sites throughout Orlando. From January to September 2001, the Rehabilitation Institute treated 74 patients with a newly diagnosed spinal cord injury. The number of patients treated at the ORMC trauma center has increased the number of patients treated in the Rehabilitation Institute from a daily average of 11 only two years ago, to a daily average of more than 30 today. Of the average 30, five to six patients will have a spinal cord injury.

"Because we have the area`s only Level 1 trauma center we needed to develop a more specialized unit to help treat patients with spinal cord injury," said Bennett. "When contact sports, water activities, falls and automobile collisions turn tragic, we must be able to respond to the needs of the community we serve."

The network agreement will allow the Rehabilitation Institute to continue to offer the very best care while meeting the growing needs of the community, with support from the Shepherd Center.

Shepherd Center is the nation`s largest freestanding facility specializing in caring for persons with spinal cord injuries, acquired brain injuries, multiple sclerosis and other neuromuscular disorders. The center treats nearly 400 new patients with spinal cord and brain injuries each year.

"Shepherd and Orlando Regional share a basic belief that you should do what is best for the patient long term," said Gary Ulicny, Ph.D., president and CEO of Shepherd Center. "This agreement is a perfect example because it will allow both facilities to better meet the needs of individuals with catastrophic injuries across a broad spectrum of age and medical severity."

Staff from both hospitals expect to benefit from the exchange of information and experience. Some Orlando Regional staff members recently became licensed in the state of Georgia to participate in an initial one-week comprehensive hands-on training program at Shepherd Center. They will return periodically to learn about new rehabilitation technology and for training opportunities with mentors.

"There is also a mentor program with Shepherd staff," said Dilys Jagger, administrator, Orlando Regional Lucerne. "Our staff members are paired up with Shepherd staff members to consult periodically about rehabilitation issues. We are both committed to practical, functional excellence in rehabilitation.

The Rehabilitation Institute recently received a three-year accreditation, the highest level awarded, from the Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities (CARF). CARF is a not-for-profit organization that accredits programs and services in medical rehabilitation, employment and community services, assisted living, adult day services and behavioral health.

Hearts At Home and Joint Replacement Rehabilitation Programs Make House Calls

12/3/2001 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, FL (November 28, 2001) — “Marcus Welby, M.D.” may be off the air, but Orlando Regional Healthcare’s Hearts at Home program and Joint Replacement Rehabilitation Program are staying tuned to patients’ needs with a new twist on the traditional “house call.” Patients scheduled for open heart surgery, or total hip or knee replacement surgeries can receive free one-on-one education prior to surgery in the privacy and comfort of their own home.

“We want to help calm any fears or anxiety patients and loved ones experience before undergoing surgery,” said Debi Geotis, RN, MSN, clinical nurse specialist for the Hearts at Home Program. “More than 25 to 30 percent of all open-heart surgeries are scheduled in advance. We use this opportunity, in the familiar setting of their own home, to prepare patients, the family and loved ones of what to expect before, during and after surgery.”

Geotis spends an hour or more during in-home visits to discuss the upcoming hospital visit and to provide a needs assessment. The assessment includes helping patients determine what changes should be made in their homes before being discharged from the hospital. Changes may include rearranging furniture, removing throw rugs or other layout arrangements, as well as other lifestyle changes that help make the recovery process easier. Bruce Satterlund, PT and program manager for the Joint Rehabilitation Program, spends two to three hours conducting in-home visits.

“In-home visits better prepare patients because we come to them,” said Satterlund. “Discussing home safety during an in-home visit provides a great advantage because we are able to show patients how to practice and improve post-op safety in their specific environment. Also because of their diagnosis, patients may have limited mobility or may not feel comfortable traveling to attend a class. We make patient education convenient.”

With the in-home program nearly 70 percent of patients scheduled for total hip or total knee replacement surgeries take advantage of the in-home program. The Hearts at Home program has a participation rate of 90 percent, if they are prescheduled for open heart surgery.

“Research shows patients do better when they know what will happen because they become empowered with knowledge and understanding,” said Geotis. “Also, there is a decrease in the length of stay and pain and discomfort for patients who participate in education prior to surgery. We help patients help themselves.”

Geotis’ “black bag” of necessities includes information pamphlets and an education video she and other team members produced.

“The video is an important part of patient education,” Geotis said. “Actually it was filmed at Orlando Regional Medical Center, with our employees. Patients, families and caregivers have the opportunity to see what the operating and recovery rooms are like, as well as patient care units and patient rooms. Also seen in the video are examples of post-operative deep breathing and coughing exercises and examples of fitness and nutrition options.”

In addition to educational materials, Satterlund takes along samples of post-op hospital and home equipment used after hip or knee surgery.

In addition to the in-home visit, Geotis and Satterlund act as liaisons for the patient while in the hospital if they or family members have questions. Also, they are available to provide social services resources for care and assistance after the patient leaves the hospital. The Hearts at Home program has provided services for four years and the Joint Replacement Program has provided services for three years.

Orlando Regional Healthcare Appoints Occupational Health Manager

11/30/2001 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, FL. (November 30, 2001) – Terri Barresi, RN, COHN, CCM, has joined Orlando Regional Healthcare as manager of Occupational Health. In this role she will manage the Occupational Health Clinic for Orlando Regional employees and for the City of Orlando.

Currently, Barresi is working to place flu vaccine clinics throughout Orlando Regional facilities. Before joining Orlando Regional, she worked with CNA Insurance and Universal Studios.

Noted Oncologist Returns To MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando

11/27/2001 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, FL (November 28, 2001) – Dr. David Nyberg, medical oncologist/hematologist, has returned to the faculty of MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando. He will begin seeing patients on December 3.

A longtime employee of MD Anderson – Orlando and Orlando Regional Medical Center (ORMC), Nyberg’s areas of expertise include leukemia and breast, colo-rectal, gynecologic and neurologic cancers. He returns from Chicago after a one-year appointment with Elmhurst Memorial Healthcare.

Nyberg received his medical degree from the University of Health Sciences, The Chicago Medical School and completed post-graduate training in internal medicine at ORMC and trained in hematology/oncology at H. Lee Moffit Cancer Center in Tampa. He is board certified in internal medicine and medical oncology/hematology.

Travel Tips 101: Keep Kids Safe This Holiday Season

11/13/2001 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, FL (November 12, 2001) --- With more Americans driving to grandma’s house this holiday season, extra traffic may mean extra holiday hassles.

Health and safety experts at Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children & Women encourage you to buckle up everyone and arrive safely. According to the Journal of the American Medical Association, studies show more than 80 percent of children involved in motor vehicle crashes are not properly buckled in seat belts or child safety seats.

Follow these safety tips from Tammy Horvath, RN and coordinator for SAFE Kids of Greater Orlando, and set a great example:

Start Early
* Research types of car seats appropriate for your children’s age and size.
* Make sure car seats are properly installed in your car’s back seat.
* All children under 12 should be correctly restrained in the back seat.
* Children are easier to keep restrained in safety seats and seat belts as they get older if you begin when they are young.</ul>

Be Consistent
* Wear your seat belt every time for positive reinforcement.
* No matter the length of the trip, always buckle up your children. (About 70 percent of all motor vehicle crashes occur within 25 miles of home.)
* Make sure other adult passengers wear their seat belts.

Use Both Comforting And Firm Words
* Always use positive words to reinforce the importance of riding in a car seat or wearing a seat belt.
* Use positive expressions such as, “I love you so much that I don’t want you to get hurt” or “I’m buckling you up because I love you.”
* Stop the car if children unbuckle seat belts or get out of car seats.
* Talk to children in a firm, serious voice when they undo safety restraints; then buckle them up again.

Make Traveling Adventurous* Carry a travel bag of soft books or toys to prevent boredom.
* Change toys and books often to keep them entertained.
* Play tapes or compact discs that children can sing along.
* Tape bright, colorful pictures to the seat.
* Relieve car seat cramps with a good long stretch. Look for parks, rest stops and other locations that offer a chance to stand up as well as play.

By following these simple safety measures, you are promoting the continued well- being of your children.

Pediatric Cancer Patient Brings Unique Twist To Holiday Greetings

11/6/2001 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, FL (November 6, 2001) – A merrily decorated palm tree loaded with presents, warm Florida sunshine and a festive flamingo sporting a red bow and Santa`s hat are Paul Romanowski`s vision of a winter wonderland.

The sophomore at Winter Springs High School was recently named a featured artist for the Children`s Art Project 2001 Holiday Collection at MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando.

Surprised at his accomplishment, Paul says he`s never even seen snow in person. "I really didn`t know I had an artist in me," elaborated Paul, who is undergoing treatment for acute lymphoblastic leukemia at MD Anderson – Orlando, Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children & Women and Nemours Children`s Clinic.

Because of his creativity, he was invited to MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando in Houston where he was recognized as a 2001 Children`s Art Project Designer. "It was my first trip ever in an airplane," said 16-year-old Paul.

He is one of 44 pediatric artists and the ninth artist from Florida – all cancer patients at MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando in Houston and Orlando – to be featured in the 2001 Holiday Collection.

Paul`s holiday rendering is available at area Publix Supermarkets and the gift shops at Orlando Regional Medical Center, MD Anderson – Orlando, Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children & Women and online at www.childrensart.org. The cards, 15 in a box, are $10.

According to the American Cancer Society, today some 80 percent of pediatric cancer patients overcome their disease and live long, full lives. At MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando in Houston and Orlando, the Children`s Art Project is dedicated to nurturing the educational, emotional and social needs of these children.

The Children`s Art Project began in 1974 at MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando Houston and expanded to MD Anderson – Orlando in 1993. More than $500,000 has been raised locally to fund patient programs in Orlando, including support groups, college scholarships and stays at The Boggy Creek Gang Camp.
Holiday Art by Paul

A Million Reasons To Defeat Breast Cancer

11/2/2001 12:00:00 AM

Orlando, FL (November 2, 2001) – MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando has received a gift of $1 million from Women Playing For TIME. The gift comes from TIME`s annual golf and tennis tournaments held each fall in conjunction with Pink October, MD Anderson – Orlando`s annual breast cancer awareness campaign.

In just nine years, TIME has grown tremendously and donated more than $4 million to MD Anderson – Orlando for breast cancer research and education.

The group, which began as a grassroots volunteer effort, now comprises a 57-woman board of directors and is considered one of the most successful female-only, amateur sporting events in the United States.

Founded by breast cancer patient Sheila Solomon (1941 – 2000) and Elaine Lustig, TIME has enabled MD Anderson – Orlando to establish a Breast Diagnostic Center complete with a licensed mental health counselor; operate a mobile van; offer educational buddy check programs, obtain a DNA sequencer for breast cancer research; sponsor public health conferences; and purchase ultrasound breast diagnostic equipment, just to name a few.

"During the past nine years, hundreds of women have participated in TIME events, and through their efforts, thousands of women have become better educated about breast cancer," said Dr. Clarence H. Brown, president/CEO of MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando.

"TIME has greatly enabled us to improve the quality of diagnostic and treatment opportunities of women in Central Florida and beyond."

TIME stands for Technology, Immediate Diagnosis, Mammography and Education.

Pink October is registered with the state of Florida by Orlando Regional Healthcare.

Ronald McDonald House Coming To Arnold Palmer Hospital Campus

10/31/2001 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, FL (Oct. 31, 2001) --- A campaign to raise $5 million to build a Ronald McDonald House on the campus of Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children & Women has received two major donations.

A $1 million grant was made by The Dr. P. Phillips Foundation, which serves as the lead gift for the second Ronald McDonald House in Orlando. Also, Orlando Regional Healthcare, parent company of Arnold Palmer Hospital, announced the donation of land adjacent to the hospital on which to build the house.

"We are pleased to help bring a second Ronald McDonald House to our community on the campus of Arnold Palmer Hospital," said Jim Hinson, president, The Dr. P. Phillips Foundation.

Providing additional low-cost housing for families with children being treated at local hospitals is a community need, which should be addressed."

"At Orlando Regional Healthcare and Arnold Palmer Hospital we are focused on the wellness of the family. So it is appropriate to add this facility to our campus expansion. By having your family near during a medical crisis, there`s a comfort alongside the healing process," said John Hillenmeyer, president/CEO, Orlando Regional Healthcare.

Major corporations, foundations, and individuals also have made commitments for the house. These include: Southwest Airlines; The Nemours Foundation; SunTrust; Ronald McDonald House Charities, National; Hubbard Construction; Toni Jennings; Sprint; Chicone Family Foundation; K-92FM; Central Florida McDonald`s Association, Inc.; Mark and Wendy Nation; Telephone Pioneers; East Balt. Bakery; Tom and Peggy Chandler; Orange County Convention Center Golf Tournament; Jim and Alexis Pugh; and A Friends Foundation.

Currently, Orlando Regional Healthcare`s Hubbard House provides lodging for families of adult and pediatric patients in critical care at Orlando Regional Medical Center, MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando and Arnold Palmer Hospital. The 21-bedroom house, which opened in 1984, serves more than 2000 families annually.

With the new Ronald McDonald House, more families of pediatric patients will have the opportunity to stay near their loved ones while they receive care at area health care facilities.

Construction is scheduled to begin in spring 2002. The house is a three-story plantation colonial-style building accented with a southeastern-style tower on the corner, which houses the living and gathering rooms. When completed, 37 additional families per night will have a comfortable and safe place to stay while their child receives treatment at area hospitals.

Orlando will be the second city in Florida and one of only nine cities nationwide to have two Ronald McDonald Houses.

SchenkelShultz architectural firm of Orlando has donated the creative plans for the house. McCree, Inc. will spearhead the construction and coordinate in-kind donations of services and construction materials. The American Society of Interior Designers will donate interior design services.

Corporations, foundations, and individuals are encouraged to sponsor a room or area of the new house. Named gift opportunities are available by calling Lou Ann DeVoogd, Executive Director, Ronald McDonald House Charities at (407) 206-0957.

Carrying A Torch Of Inspiration

10/30/2001 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, FL (October 30, 2001) --- Dr. Gregor Alexander, a neonatologist at Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children & Women in Orlando, has been chosen to carry the Olympic torch when the flame passes through Central Florida on December 7. The announcement was made Tuesday, Oct. 30, at Lake Eola by Orlando Mayor Glenda Hood.

Alexander is one of 11,500 torchbearers selected to play a role in the flame’s magical journey from Atlanta to Salt Lake City, Utah for the 2002 Winter Games.

He was chosen as a torchbearer after the Salt Lake City selection committee received an essay from hospital chaplain Mark Bartel. In the essay, Bartel described Alexander as an individual who has been and continues to be a source of personal inspiration in others lives.

A longtime neonatologist with Orlando Regional Healthcare, Alexander was a key force in the drive to create a special hospital dedicated solely to children and women. His efforts and those of the Central Florida community led to the opening of Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children & Women in 1989.

Since joining Orlando Regional in 1977, Alexander and the neonatal team have saved more than 25,000 premature babies in Central Florida.

Born in Colombia to parents who escaped Germany in 1938, he began his medical career on horseback tending to patients in the Colombian Mountains.

At age 50 Alexander ran his first marathon. Since then, he has since organized Miracle Miles, an annual 15K run to awareness and funds for “his babies” in the neonatal unit. Michelle Kendall, one of the first premature infants he treated, has won the female division of the run since it began in 1999. It’s no wonder he was named “Citizen of the Year” a few years ago by the March of Dimes.

Starting December 4 in Atlanta, the Olympic Torch will travel more than 13,500 miles and pass through 46 states. Along the way the torch will be transported via automobile, airplane, train, ship, skier, horse-drawn sleigh, snowmobile, ice skater and by one inspirational doctor from Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children & Women.

Making A Difference, One Round At A Time

10/28/2001 12:00:00 AM

Editor`s Note: The 9th annual Women Playing For TIME™ golf tournament will be held Oct. 16-17 at Lake Nona Club, 9100 Chiltern Drive, Orlando. ORLANDO,
FL (October 8, 2001) ---When friends paired Elaine Lustig and Sheila Solomon on the links in the early 1990s, no one realized the bond they would form. Both golf enthusiasts with a passion for life, Elaine and Sheila quickly became friends – both on and off the greens.

In 1993, the twosome combined their love of golf with a mutual desire to promote breast cancer awareness and founded Women Playing For TIME™ (Technology, Immediate Diagnosis, Mammography and Education). Diagnosed six years earlier with breast cancer, Solomon, who has since passed away, envisioned an event that would drive home the importance of early detection and education.

Lustig, then-president of the Orlando Regional Healthcare Foundation, met with Dr. Clarence Brown, medical oncologist and president/CEO of MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando. They discussed ways to work together to increase awareness. At the time, breast cancer was not a topic that attracted much attention.

The result – Women Playing For TIME™ charity golf and tennis tournaments. The events are held each fall in conjunction with Pink October*, MD Anderson – Orlando`s annual breast cancer awareness campaign.

Solomon once said no one wants cancer, but having it gave her the opportunity to re-evaluate her life. "I realized the only way I could get my life back was to take control by getting all the information available [on the disease]."

As Lustig and Solomon began planning, they were told that a women-only golf tournament might raise $30,000 at best. As word spread, however, women came from across the U.S. to participate. The first tournament raised $107,000 and helped the center establish a breast diagnostic center.

Many friendships also formed across the country and the events grew. Lustig and Solomon found they were not alone in their quest to find a cure. Women, whose lives had been touched by cancer, quickly signed up for events.

Many stay in touch all year long and even call Dr. Brown to assist in finding medical resources for their families wherever they live.

"When Sheila lost her battle with breast cancer last May [2000], she left a gaping hole in the heart of Women Playing For TIME™," recalled Lustig. "Her loss only fired our determination to make women more aware of their options, their need for early detection and the importance of education."

Today, Women Playing For TIME™ – the nation`s first all-woman charity golf tournament – is in its 9th year. What began as a grass roots effort has quickly become the largest single fundraiser in women`s sports in the United States.

Led by a board of directors, consisting of 57 women, the group is set to pass the $4 million mark this fall. Many participants – breast cancer patients and survivors – eagerly await the tournament and sign up the first day. Events for the 2001 tournament sold out the first day.

"During the past nine years, hundreds of women have participated in TIME events and through their efforts thousands of women have become better educated about breast cancer," said Brown. "TIME has greatly enabled us to improve the quality of diagnostic and treatment opportunities for women in Central Florida and beyond."

Pink October* is registered with the state of Florida by Orlando Regional Healthcare.

Arnold Palmer Hospital Provides Tips To Keep Tricks Out of Halloween

10/25/2001 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, Fla. (Oct. 24, 2001) --- As witches, ghosts and goblins prepare to descend on Central Florida, Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children & Women and SAFE Kids of Greater Orlando offer the following tips for a safe and haunting time.

Costumes

* Attach the name, address and phone number of children under age 12 to their clothes.
* Apply face paints or cosmetics directly to the face. It`s safer than loose-fitting masks, which can obstruct vision. If masks are worn, be sure they fit securely and cut eyeholes large enough for full vision.
* Make costumes short enough to avoid tripping. Also, dress children in shoes that fit. Adult shoes are not safe for trick-or-treaters.
* Allow children to carry only flexible knives, swords and other props; and be sure that the "weapons" don`t look too realistic.
* Decorate costumes, bags ands sacks with reflective tape and stickers. (And remember to put reflective tape on bicycles, skateboards and brooms too!)
* Make costumes light or bright enough to make children more visible at night

Treats

* Bring treats home before eating them. Parents should check treats to ensure items are safely sealed.
* If you expect trick-or-treaters at your home, consider giving non-food treats like pencils, coloring books or stickers.
* Trick-or-treat in neighborhoods you are familiar with. Even better, approach only the houses of people you are familiar with. Children should NEVER enter a stranger`s home or car for a treat.
* Accompany young children and instruct older children to stay in a group. Older children should know how to reach a parent and should carry some sort of identification.
Plan your Halloween route and share it with family members. Also, set a time to return home.
* Remove breakable items or obstacles such as tools, ladders and children`s toys from your steps, lawn and porch.
* Keep jack-o-lanterns lit with candles away from landings or doorsteps where costumes might brush against the flame.
* Use flashlights to illuminate your travels.
* Don`t cut across yards. Lawn ornaments and clotheslines can be "hidden hazards" in the dark.
* Walk, slither or crawl on sidewalks, not in the street.
* Cross streets only at intersections and crosswalks. Look left, right and left again before crossing the street to check for cars, trucks and low flying brooms.
* Don`t hide or cross the street between parked cars.
* Keep candles, pumpkins with candles, matches and lighters out of reach of children.

By following these simple safety steps, you can help keep your child’s Halloween accident free!

Women Take Cancer Detection Into Own Hands

10/23/2001 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, FL (Oct. 10, 2001) – Statistics show that 97 percent of all breast cancers diagnosed early are curable. The key to that cure rate is early detection says a breast care coordinator at MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando.

"A breast self-exam is one of three integral weapons in the fight against breast cancer; the others are mammography and an annual physical exam," said Rita Mahaffey, RN, BSN, an oncology certified nurse and breast care coordinator with the Breast Diagnostic Center at MD Anderson – Orlando.

"When detected early, breast cancer is very curable. If women practice monthly breast self-exams, have annual mammograms after age 40 and yearly physical exams, we would see a continuing increase in the cure rate for breast cancer," Mahaffey elaborated.

To teach women about breast self-exams, MD Anderson – Orlando has produced shower cards that provide explicit instructions about the procedure. Free shower cards are available by calling the MD Anderson – Orlando HealthLine at (407) 648-7899 or toll free (800) 648-7899.

To complement monthly breast self-exams, Mahaffey offers these tips:

* Women should be consistent when performing a breast self-exam. Exams should be done the same way and at the same time each month.

* Look for changes in breast size, shape, skin texture or color, redness, dimpling or puckering. Always look for changes in the nipple, including discharge, scaliness or a change in direction.

* Surgical consultation is recommended for breast lumps that can be felt, even if they do not show up on a mammogram and/or sonogram.

* Draw a diagram of your breasts on a piece of paper and mark the location of any lumps. Compare results from month to month. If a lump suddenly appears where nothing was present before, consult with a physician immediately.

* Divide the breast into four quadrants. Pay close attention to the upper outer quadrant, because that is the most common site for breast cancers. The second most common site is directly beneath the nipple, so be sure to thoroughly examine the nipple and surrounding area.

Created in 1993, the Breast Diagnostic Center allows women confronting a breast problem to find all the help they need from one streamlined source.

The Breast Diagnostic Center provides a comfortable, supportive atmosphere in the diagnostic process for women who have a lump in their breast, an abnormal mammogram or other symptoms located in the breast. A breast care coordinator works with each patient as a partner in the decision-making process and scheduling of exams, tests and consultations. In most cases, a diagnosis and treatment plan are available within 48 hours. The center also offers several support groups for breast cancer patients and family members.

Coping with Stress Seminar -- Tuesday, Oct. 23, At South Seminole Hospital

10/19/2001 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, FL (October 19, 2001) --- In response to the recent national tragedies, Orlando Regional Healthcare Behavioral Health will host "Recognizing Crisis – Rebuilding Hope" from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m., Tuesday, October 23, in the Orlando Regional South Seminole Hospital Gymnasium, 555 West State Road 434 in Longwood.

Mental health experts – adult and child psychiatrists, licensed mental health counselors, licensed clinical social workers and chaplains - and an infectious disease expert will talk about coping with anxiety and stress. Also, a question and answer session will follow.

Seating is limited. To register, call (407) 262-2213.

Survivors To Raise $1 Million In Fight Against Breast Cancer

10/15/2001 12:00:00 AM

Participants mirror national statistic – 1 out of 8 have been diagnosed with breast cancer

ORLANDO, FL (October 15, 2001) --- One hundred and thirty-four women from across the United States will hit the links October 15-17 at the Lake Nona Club – 9100 Chiltern Drive, Orlando, (407) 857-6216 – for the 9th Annual Women Playing For TIME Golf Classic.

The sold-out, all-woman event – the largest single fundraiser in women’s sports in the U.S.– is expected to raise $1 million this year and pass the $4 million mark in total monies raised for MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando.

Women Playing For (Technology, Immediate Diagnosis, Mammography and Education) began in 1993 as a grassroots organization of volunteers dedicated to conquering breast cancer.

Founded by Sheila Solomon (1941 – 2000) and Elaine Lustig, the group’s goals include establishing a state-of-the-art breast cancer screening, diagnostic and treatment center; educational outreach programs to raise awareness about breast cancer; funding research for prevention, treatment and a cure for breast cancer; and raising hope for the thousands of women afflicted by breast cancer.

Women Playing For TIME has enabled MD Anderson – Orlando to establish a Breast Diagnostic Center complete with a licensed mental health counselor; operate a mobile van; offer educational buddy check programs, obtain a DNA sequencer for breast cancer research; sponsor public health conferences; and purchase ultrasound breast diagnostic equipment, just to name a few.

A portion of the proceeds benefits Miracle Makers, the team charity of the Orlando Miracle, which supports organizations such as MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando and the Orlando Regional Healthcare Foundation

Health Forum Addresses End-of-Life Care

10/10/2001 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, FL (October 9, 2001) — When it comes to choosing how to provide care and comfort to a dying loved one, finding the right solution is not always easy. When faced with the loss of a loved one and making final arrangements, it is not always clear what steps to take next.

Orlando Regional Healthcare and the Central Florida Partnership to Improve End-of-Life Care are offering a free public forum, “Making Death a Part of Life,” to provide information to help caregivers, family members and others in the community as they make important decisions. The forum is Saturday, November 10, from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Sheraton Orlando North, 600 North Lake Destiny Drive, Maitland.

"More and more we find that people who are caring for terminally ill parents, spouses or loved ones are faced with tough decisions about end-of-life care,” said Dr. Frank Bone, medical director, Palliative Consultative Service at Orlando Regional. “Many of these caregivers are not quite sure what to do or where to turn. Caregivers often have questions about a loved one`s illness, pain management, legal issues, spirituality and faith. We want to offer this opportunity to the public for discussion and information sharing about options and resources available to our community."

Forum topics include: “Do I Need a Lawyer?,” “Pain Control and Comfort Care,” “Spiritual Nourishment at the End-of-Life,” “Hospice: Help for the Whole Family,” “Surviving the Death of a Loved One,” and “Making the Final Arrangements.” Question and answer sessions will follow each presentation.
“We want to help people change their attitude about death from one of fear to one of knowledge and understanding,” said Dr. Bone. “Generally we have a difficult way of dealing with dying. We delay thinking about it and simply try to ignore it. But there is a clear, certain path of life: being born, living and dying.”

The forum also includes lunch with keynote speaker Geri Evans, vice president of public relations, Florida Hospital Association. Evans will share her personal experience in facing end-of-life choices while caring for a family member. In addition, representatives of various community resources will be available to provide information and answer questions.

Seating for the forum is limited. To make a reservation or for more information, call HealthLine at (407) 648-7899 or toll free (800) 648-7899.

The Central Florida Partnership for End of Life Care is comprised of organizations in Orange, Seminole and Osceola counties committed to improving the quality of end-of-life care in communities. The organization seeks to help people overcome fears of dying in pain, dying alone and loss of control and dignity.

Orlando Regional Healthcare Names Vice President Of Information Systems

10/9/2001 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, FL (October 9, 2001) --- Rick Schooler has been named vice president/chief information officer for Orlando Regional Healthcare. The appointment is effective immediately. I

n this role, Schooler will oversee the information systems and telecommunications functions. His priorities will include strengthening Orlando Regional`s reputation as a leader in the cost-effective use of information technology to support excellent patient care.

Schooler comes to Orlando Regional from Central Georgia Health System where he has been vice president/chief information officer since 1994. Prior to that position, he was director of Systems Integration at Methodist Hospital of Indiana.

Schooler has nearly 20 years of information systems and telecommunications experience. During his career he has worked with Ameritech, General Dynamics and Computer Systems Corporation. He holds a bachelor`s in computer technology from Purdue University and a master`s in business administration from the University of Indianapolis.

Survivors To Fight Breast Cancer At Sold Out Golf Tournament

10/8/2001 12:00:00 AM

Participants mirror national statistic – 1 out of 8 have been diagnosed with breast cancer.

ORLANDO, FL (October 8, 2001) --- One hundred and thirty-four women from across the United States will hit the links October 16-17 at the Lake Nona Club – 9100 Chiltern Drive, Orlando, (407) 857-6216 – for the 9th Annual Women Playing For TIME™ Golf Tournament.

The sold-out, all-woman event – the largest single fundraiser in women`s sports in the U.S.– is expected to raise $1 million and pass $4 million in total monies raised for breast cancer research and education at MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando.

Women Playing For TIME™ (Technology, Immediate Diagnosis, Mammography and Education) began in 1993 as a grassroots effort of volunteers dedicated to conquering breast cancer.

Founded by Sheila Solomon (1941 – 2000) and Elaine Lustig, the group`s goals include establishing a state-of-the-art breast cancer screening, diagnostic and treatment center; educational outreach programs to raise awareness about breast cancer; funding research for prevention, treatment and a cure for breast cancer; and raising hope for the thousands of women afflicted by breast cancer.

Women Playing For TIME™ has enabled MD Anderson – Orlando to establish a Breast Diagnostic Center complete with a licensed mental health counselor; operate a mobile van; offer educational buddy check programs, obtain a DNA sequencer for breast cancer research; sponsor public health conferences; and purchase ultrasound breast diagnostic equipment, just to name a few.

A portion of the proceeds benefits Miracle Makers, the team charity of the Orlando Miracle, which supports organizations such as MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando and the Orlando Regional Healthcare Foundation.

Howard Phillips Center Director Guest Speaker at National Conference

9/28/2001 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, FL. (September 28, 2001) – Lisa Early, director of the Howard Phillips Center for Children & Families, part of Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children & Women, recently spoke at the National Association of Children`s Hospitals and Related Institutions annual conference in Virginia.

Early`s address, "A Success Story," which focused on local efforts in the field of child abuse and neglect, was part of the 2001 Innovation Series.

Last year, the center served more than 10,000 children and family members, many of whom were victims of abuse and neglect, had developmental delays and disabilities or had AIDS.

The Howard Phillips Center for Children & Families is a cooperative partnership between Arnold Palmer Hospital and numerous public and private agencies throughout the community. The center aims to build a stronger community: one child, one individual, one family at a time, by promoting healthy child development, responding to and preventing child abuse, offering hope to HIV-positive children and families, and providing health care to uninsured, under served and at-risk teens.

ORMC Recognized Nationally for Excellence in Service

9/28/2001 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, FL (September 28, 2001) --- Orlando Regional Medical Center (ORMC) has once again been named a 2001 Consumer Choice Award winner by National Research Corporation (NRC), the nation’s leading healthcare performance measurement firm. The announcement was made in the September 24 issue of Modern Healthcare.

“Central Floridians clearly recognize ORMC as a leader in providing their families with quality healthcare. It’s rewarding to see that our high level of compassionate service is appreciated yet again,” said Abe Lopman, ORMC executive director.

ORMC is one of 121 hospitals selected nationwide to receive this honor. The recognition places ORMC alongside institutions including Johns Hopkins University Hospital, Yale-New Haven Hospital, Cleveland Clinic Foundation and the Mayo Clinic.

Since 1996, NRC has bestowed awards annually on the nation’s top hospitals. More than 150,000 households in the contiguous 48 states and the District of Columbia responded to the 2001 survey. Participants answered questions about: health plans, physician and hospital satisfaction assessments; community health needs, health status and chronic condition profiles; consumer trust and confidence in healthcare; hospital image and preference ratings; and alternative medicine usage.

Arnold Palmer Hospital Sponsors 5th Annual "Walk Our Children To School"

9/25/2001 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, FL (September 25, 2001) --- Students and community leaders are slated to take part in the 5th annual "Walk Our Children to School Day," at 7 a.m., Tuesday, October 2.

Because of high traffic volumes around the school, the following have been chosen to participate:

Maxey Elementary, 1100 East Maple St, Winter Garden
Grand Avenue, 800 West Grand Avenue, Orlando
Pine Hills Elementary, 1006 Ferndell Road, Orlando

Additionally, safety programs will be conducted at each school from September 24-26. Activities include crossing at crosswalks, obeying traffic signals and crossing guards and looking left, right, then left.

"Walk Our Children to School" is part of a nationwide campaign to promote the health benefits of walking as well as to reinforce proper pedestrian behaviors.

"We want to encourage parents to teach children about pedestrian safety and make drivers more aware of the difficulties and dangers children face on their trip each day," said Tammy Horvath, SAFE Kids coordinator.

Based upon 1999 statistics from the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT), 38 pedestrian fatalities and 610 pedestrian injuries occurred in Orange County. Seminole County reported 103 pedestrian injuries and seven pedestrian fatalities.

FDOT figures from 1998 showed seven pedestrian fatalities and 63 injuries in Lake County, Osceola County reported nine pedestrian fatality and 82 pedestrian injuries and Volusia County reported 18 fatalities and 243 pedestrian injuries.

Sponsors include Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children & Women, Orange County Community Traffic Safety Team, Federal Express, SAFE KIDS of Greater Orlando, Orange County Sheriff`s Department and local fire and police departments.

Program Manager Named for Development Center for Infants and Children

9/21/2001 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, FL (September 21, 2001) -- Linda L. Stone, Ph.D., has been appointed regional director of the Early Intervention Program and program manager of the Developmental Center for Infants and Children at the Howard Phillips Center for Children & Families, part of Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children & Women.

Dr. Stone holds extensive experience in developmental psychology and counseling. Most recently she served as a program director with The Lawton and Rhea Chiles Center for Healthy Mothers and Babies at the University of South Florida.

Prior to that she served as the first executive director of the Orange County Healthy State Coalition, a coalition to create a quality system of prenatal and infant health in the county. Additionally, in 1997 Stone served as a state of Florida representative to the White House Conference on Childcare.

The Howard Phillips Center for Children & Families is a cooperative partnership between Arnold Palmer Hospital and numerous public and private agencies throughout the community. The center aims to build a stronger community: one child, one individual, one family at a time, by promoting healthy child development, responding to and preventing child abuse, offering hope to HIV-positive children and families, and providing health care to uninsured, under served and at-risk teens.

New Technology Connects Nurses to Important Patient Data

9/7/2001 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, FL (September 7, 2001) --- Nurses at Orlando Regional Medical Center`s medical/cardiology telemetry unit now have a high-tech way to keep close contact with their patients, from any location in the unit.

StatView allows direct patient-to-nurse notification of any changes in a patient`s heart rhythm by way of a pager-like receiver. The receiver sounds an alarm whenever there is a change in a patient`s heart rhythm and displays a patient`s name, room number and heart rhythm.

"This technology allows a caregiver to have first hand information on a patient`s heart condition and what a patient needs," said Ali Stuart, RN, nursing operations manager for medical cardiology at ORMC. "With StatView, nurses are able to perform other duties throughout other areas of the unit, while at the same time respond more quickly to a patient`s change in heart rhythm."

Traditionally, a monitor technician would monitor the heart rhythms of patients by way of a computer monitor. When a patient`s heart rhythm changed, the computer system would sound an alarm. The monitor technician would locate the nurse. The nurse would then respond to the patient`s needs.

A monitor at the unit`s central nursing station is still used as a primary alarm notification system, but a monitor technician is no longer needed to view changes. Instead, with StatView, nurses receive simultaneous notification directly.

Patient response to the system, which began as a pilot study in January, has been positive. "When patients arrive on our floor, we tell them about StatView and explain how we will monitor them during their stay," said Stuart. "Our patients tell us this type of system makes them feel more comfortable and confident they will receive quality care as soon as possible when needed. Utilizing this technology has been a way to improve quality care delivery for patients and productivity processes for our caregivers."

55PLUS Provides the Elderly an Immediate Solution to Rising Prescription Costs

9/7/2001 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, FL (September 7, 2001) --- The race is on in Washington, D.C. to help the elderly with prescription drug costs and to expand Medicare’s coverage. While the politicians work out a plan, members of Orlando Regional Healthcare’s 55PLUS program have been saving thousands of dollars during the past two years using Catalyst Scripts, the program’s free prescription discount card.

Catalyst Scripts can produce substantial savings on medications when presented at the more than 40,000 participating pharmacies. All major pharmacies participate in the plan and these savings are made possible through contractual agreements between the participating pharmacies and the Catalyst Scripts program. Catalyst Scripts is offered exclusively in Central Florida to members of 55PLUS.
More than 1,000 55PLUS members use the card each month to purchase their prescriptions, spending approximately $125,000. During the first quarter of 2001 55PLUS members achieved approximately 13 percent in cost savings totaling more than $46,200.

“I would like to be able to say that I helped our members save more than $200,000 in one year,” said 55PLUS manager Martha Johnson. “I hear every day from members about the increasing costs of prescription drugs and their concern about being able to stay
healthy. Using the Catalyst Scripts card can provide substantial savings. Many of our members realize savings that can then help them maintain a better quality of life.”

Orlando Regional’s 55PLUS program is a free membership program for anyone over the age of 55. It started in 1991 and now has more than 80,000 members in Central Florida. The program offers many benefits such as educational programs and seminars, non-emergency transportation to Orlando Regional hospitals, discounts in hospital cafeterias, a travel club, personal emergency response systems and vision and dental plans.

For more information on becoming a member of 55PLUS to join Catalyst Scripts, call HealthLine at (407) 648-7899.

Blood Conserving Surgery Saving Lives At Arnold Palmer Hospital

9/6/2001 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, FL (September 6, 2001) – A procedure available at Arnold Palmer Hospital Children`s Heart Institute, a joint effort of the Nemours Cardiac Center, is enabling some infants born with congenital heart defects to undergo lifesaving open-heart surgery without using blood.

Developed in part by Dr. Mark Galantowicz, a pediatric heart surgeon with Nemours Cardiac Center, the procedure involves routing blood from the infant`s heart to a miniaturized heart/lung bypass machine.

Heart/lung machines have been used for more almost 50 years to take over for the heart during operations. But the device Galantowicz helped create is a new design that gives infants the rare chance for open-heart surgery without the need for a blood transfusion.

The new model works exactly like a standard heart-lung machine. Tubes carry blood away from the heart into the machine, where it is replenished with oxygen, cleansed of bubbles and carbon dioxide, warmed and pumped back into the body. The difference is in size.

To get the machine ready for a patient, doctors must fill it with saline solution. About 1.5 liters, or 1.6 quarts, of saline must be added to an adult machine, and about 500 cubic centimeters – or half a quart – of saline is needed for the child model.

Saline is typically not a problem for adults, who have enough blood to keep it from being diluted by the fluid. But the same is not true for children.

Along with saline, doctors often have to add blood to the machine to avoid diluting the child`s circulatory system too much. This is where Galantowicz`s machine gets smaller. It needs only 160 cubic centimeters, or 0.17 of a quart, of saline to get rolling, which is little enough to avoid the extra blood on occasion.

It does not eliminate the need for transfusions every time, but Galantowicz estimated that about 20 percent of his patients under 13 pounds have not needed extra blood on the new device. Every child this small needs a transfusion on the standard machine.

"In the past, it`s been impossible to perform bloodless open-heart surgery in children younger than one year of age because the dilutional effects of a standard size machine are so significant that blood must be used," said Galantowicz.
Creating a mixture of the infant`s blood and saline in the machine – likened to creating a rosé wine – has enabled bloodless surgery to occur with minimal side effects.

"With the miniaturized machine, the dilutional effects on the blood count as well as the impact on clotting abilities, immune system and the inflammatory system have been minimized making it possible to operate on some newborns and infants without the use of blood," Galantowicz said.

So far, 12 children and their families from across the nation have traveled to Arnold Palmer Hospital for open-heart surgery using this procedure.

Galantowicz developed the machine with Bob Kroslowitz, a perfusionist (specialist in cardiopulmonary bypass surgery) while he was a pediatric cardiothoracic surgeon and director of Cardiopulmonary Transplantation at the Children`s Heart Center at Columbia-Presbyterian Medical Center in New York.

Arnold Palmer Children`s Heart Institute – a joint effort between Arnold Palmer Hospital and the Nemours Cardiac Center – brings together a team of world-renowned cardiothoracic surgeons, cardiologists, cardiac intensivists and anesthesiologists who are devoted exclusively to treating congenital heart disease.

Know The Warning Signs Of Gynecologic Cancer

8/28/2001 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, FL (August 28, 2001) --- About every six minutes, a woman in the United States is diagnosed with a cancer of the reproductive organs. With this sobering statistic, doctors at MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando are reminding women of the importance of early detection.

"More than 5,000 women in Florida are diagnosed annually with gynecologic cancers," said Dr. Richard Boothby, director of Clinical Research and gynecologic oncologist for MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando.

Cancers of the female reproductive tract include ovarian, cervical, uterine, vaginal, vulvar or tubal cancer. But even though these are the fourth most common cancers, they do not have to be fatal if women are aware of the warning signs and the importance of early detection.

With early detection and education tools, such as Pap and risk assessment tests, these cancers can be detected in early stages and possibly prevented.

Warning signs include:
* A change in bowel or bladder habits
* A sore that doesn`t heal
* Unusual vaginal bleeding or discharge
* A thickening or lump that causes pain or can be seen or felt
* Persistent indigestion
* A pain or pressure in the pelvic area

A woman with any of these symptoms should seek medical attention to determine whether she needs to see a gynecological oncologist, a cancer specialist with training in the areas of cancer of the reproductive organs.

"By catching these cancers in their earliest stages we can cut the death rate by half," said Boothby.

To decrease your chances of developing gynecologic cancer, Boothby advises:
* Getting to know your family history. The genetic risk for ovarian cancer can be transmitted through either mother or father, making both family histories equally important.
* Conducting a cancer risk assessment. Visit www.wcn.org and complete an online assessment.
* Asking questions.
* Making an appointment with a gynecologist for an annual exam and Pap test. Some of the most common forms of gynecologic cancers have no symptoms and can only be detected by seeing your gynecologist.

MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando Is Turning Up The Heat On Liver Tumors

8/22/2001 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, FL (August 22, 2001) --- One of the hottest techniques in destroying tumors is helping liver cancer patients at MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando.

Called radio-frequency ablation, the minimally invasive treatment offers hope for prolonged survival for patients with primary liver tumors and also for patients whose cancers have spread from other organs to the liver.

"Radio-frequency ablation allows us to treat certain patients who might otherwise be untreatable," said Dr. Marc Demers, a surgical oncologist with MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando. "This includes patients with liver tumors who are not candidates for more conventional surgery or who may have other significant health problems.”

The primary method for liver cancer treatment is surgery. However, if a tumor is too large, there are too many small tumors in the organ, or if the tumor is too close to major vascular structures within the liver, surgery may not be possible. So, chemotherapy or other techniques may be used in an attempt to destroy the cancer.

One of the problems with liver cancer, though, is symptoms often do not appear until the disease has reached more advanced stages.
Using ultrasound to see inside the liver, a probe (needle-like device) is guided into the center of the tumor. Electrodes are then deployed, which grab the tumor with an umbrella-shaped grip. Radio-frequency energy is then sent into the probes for eight minutes, raising the temperature inside the tumor to 100 degrees Celsius and killing it. Over time, the body gradually absorbs the dead tissue, so surgical removal is not necessary.

The procedure can be done on an outpatient basis. However, patients with several tumors requiring treatment are generally admitted overnight.

To learn more about this procedure and other ways MD Anderson – Orlando is winning the war against cancer, call HealthLine at (407) 648-7899.

Do your legs hurt when you walk?

8/17/2001 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, Fla. (August 10, 2001) --- Orlando Regional Healthcare and Health Central Hospital will join hospitals across the country participating in Legs for Life National Screening Week for Peripheral Vascular Disease (PVD) Leg Pain, a free, nationwide screening program that last year found that one in four of the people screened were at risk for the disease. PVD affects 10 million American, and is a warning sign of potential heart attack, stroke or a life-threatening aneurysm.

PVD is caused by blocked blood flow in the arteries of the legs. It typically affects people over age 50, and starts so quietly that many people think they are simply experiencing the natural effects of aging. In its earliest and most treatable stages, there are often no symptoms of PVD; however, potential for the disease can typically be assessed through a combination of lifestyle factors, and comparing arm and ankle blood pressure readings, known as the Ankle Brachial Index.

Although many people know that chest pain and angina are signs of a heart attack, most do not know that leg pain while walking or exercising can be a sign of clogged arteries in other parts of the body. If the arteries in your legs are clogged, you’re at increased risk of suffering a heart attack, an aneurysm or stroke.

Legs for Life - National Screening Week for PVD Leg Pain is September 16-22. The following area hospitals will be offering these screenings. Space is limited and advanced appointments are required. To make an appointment call Orlando Regional HealthLine at 800-648-7899.

*Monday, September 17 - Leesburg Regional Medical Center
*Tuesday, September 18 - National Training Center at South Lake Hospital
*Wednesday, September 19 - Orlando Regional Medical Center
*Thursday, September 20 - Orlando Regional South Seminole
*Saturday, September 22 - Health Central
*Saturday, September 22 - The Villages at Lady Lake

Legs for Life seeks to identify PVD in its earliest stages, when it can typically be treated through lifestyle changes or mediations. As PVD progresses to it most advanced stages, it causes a “heart attack in the legs” – arteries become so clogged and narrow blood is prevented from flowing to the limbs.

The most common sign of PVD is pain or cramping while walking that subsides when the person rests. Other signs of PVD include swelling, numbness, skin discoloration and sores that don’t heal. Individuals who smoke or formerly smoked, have diabetes, or elevated blood pressure or cholesterol levels are at increased risk.

More than 150,000 people have been screened for PVD since annual Legs for Life screenings began in1998. Those who are found to be at moderate or high risk of PVD are referred to their personal physician for further evaluation. Last year the Orlando Market screened 1235 patients for PVD.

Legs for Life is sponsored by the Society of Cardiovascular & Interventional Radiology (SCVIR), the national professional society of interventional radiologist. Interventional radiologists are physicians with special training who treat PVD and many other conditions using minimally invasive procedures that are often alternatives to open surgery. For more information, visit the Society’s Web site at www.scvir.org.

Going Back To School Means Catching Enough ZZZs

8/6/2001 12:00:00 AM

Orlando, Fla. (August 6, 2001) --- "Ten more minutes!" It`s a phrase parents often hear from children postponing the inevitable – bedtime. Besides the routine challenge parents face in the bedtime struggle, getting into the back-to-school routine can make it hard for children to adjust.

"A full night`s sleep is one of the most important factors for learning and absorbing information. It`s essential to the learning and growth process," says Dr. Floyd Livingston, medical director of the Respiratory Care & Pediatric Sleep Laboratory at Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children & Women and division chief of pediatric pulmonology for Nemours Children`s Clinic.

Letting kids stay up late can affect their performance at school. Sleep deprivation affects long-term memory, inhibits a child`s ability to learn and can contribute to irritability.

To settle into a new routine, Livingston recommends the following:

* Maintain your child`s regular bedtime and wake-up time. This is the most important factor in good sleep hygiene.
* Read a story before bedtime to wind down your child.
* Don`t serve chocolate, tea, or sodas containing caffeine past the afternoon.
* Use the bedroom only for sleeping. Watch TV or do homework in other rooms.
* Keep your child`s bedroom cool, quiet and dark and make sure the mattress is comfortable and supportive.
* Give your child a light snack before going to bed.
* Stay away from bright lights before bedtime.

"Mentally and physically, getting enough sleep is important for children going back to school. Also, waking up is easier and kids will have more energy for playtime and after-school activities," says Livingston.

If your child still experiences drowsiness in school, consult a specialist. There are several sleep disorders in childhood that might cause drowsiness, including obstructive sleep apnea, restless leg syndrome, circadian rhythm disturbance and anxiety disorders.

Arnold Palmer Hospital Provides Bike & Pedestrian Safety Tips

8/3/2001 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, FL. (August 3, 2001) --- With the new school year just around the corner, it is important for parents to review safety guidelines with children who walk or ride a bike to school.

Tammy Horvath, coordinator for SAFE KIDS of Greater Orlando, serving Orange County, led by Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children & Women, shares a few tips to prevent unintentional injuries.

Pedestrian Safety

Pedestrian injuries are the second leading cause of unintentional injury-related death among children ages 5-14. Never let children under 10 cross the street alone and follow these safety guidelines:

* Choose the safest route. Find the most direct route with the fewest street crossings. Walk the route with your children every day and avoid shortcuts.

* Teach children to recognize and obey all traffic signals and markings. A flashing “walk” sign is not an automatic “go” signal. It means a pedestrian has permission to cross, but must first stop and look both ways for cars.

* Make sure your children look in all directions before crossing the street. Teach kids to stop at the curb, and look left, right and left again for traffic before and while crossing the street.

* Cross streets at a corner or crosswalk. Make sure your kids walk, not run, across intersections. Never let them enter the street from between parked cars or behind bushes.

* Warn children to be extra alert in bad weather. Visibility might be poor and motorists might not be able to see them or stop quickly.

* Be a good role model. Show your children how to be safe pedestrians. If you have older children, emphasize the importance of being a good role model.

Bicycle Safety

Unfortunately, bicycles are associated with more childhood injuries than any other consumer product except cars. Here are a few tips for children riding bikes to school:

* Wear bike helmets at all times. Head injuries – the leading cause of death in bike crashes – account for more than 60 percent of bicycle-related deaths; more than two-thirds of bicycle-related hospital admissions; and about a third of hospital emergency room visits. Bike helmets have shown to reduce the risks of head injuries by as much as 85 percent and brain injuries by as much as 88 percent.

* Follow the rules of the road. Teach your kids to follow rules that apply to all vehicles. Ride on the right side of the road, with traffic, not against traffic; use appropriate hand signals; respect traffic signals; stop at all intersections, marked and unmarked; and stop and look left, right and left again before entering or crossing the street.

* Never let children under 10 ride on the road without direct adult supervision. Keep children on sidewalks and paths until they are 10 years old, able to show how well they ride, and can observe the basic rules of the road. Parental supervision is essential.

* Plan a safe cycling route with children and ride it with them. A safe cycling route to school may not be the same as a safe walking route. Streets with a steady flow of fast-moving traffic are not appropriate for young cyclists with limited traffic experience.

* Do not ride at night. Children should not ride after dark. Also, they should wear retro-reflective clothing when biking at dawn, dusk, or during inclement weather. The risk of an injury during non-daylight conditions (e.g., at dawn, dusk or night) is nearly four times greater than during the daytime.

* Make sure schools provide cyclists with “safe areas.” Bike racks should be placed in areas where there are few motor vehicles and pedestrians. Avoid drop-off and pick-up zones in school parking lots.

MD Anderson Named One of Nation`s Top Cancer Hospitals for 12th Year

8/3/2001 12:00:00 AM

HOUSTON – Once again, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando ranks among the nation’s top two cancer hospitals in U.S. News & World Report’s “America’s Best Hospitals” survey published in the magazine’s July 23 issue.

The national recognition comes in the year the National Cancer Institute-designated Comprehensive Cancer Center celebrates its 60th anniversary.

On the U.S. News index of 100, only 1.8 points separates MD Anderson (98.2 points) from Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, New York (100 points) in the number one position. Last year, MD Anderson was ranked number one. Johns Hopkins Hospital (67.8 points), another prestigious cancer center, is 30.4 points behind MD Anderson in the third position.

In addition to the top ranking in cancer, several MD Anderson specialties rank among the nation’s best, including gynecology (5), ear, nose and throat (8), urology (13), neurology and neurosurgery (23), and digestive disorders (34).

None of the 50 best cancer hospitals has a higher nurse-to-bed ratio than MD Anderson’s which is 2.68.

MD Anderson has ranked as one of the two top hospitals in cancer care since the magazine began its annual survey of specialty centers 12 years ago in 1990.

The survey is conducted for U.S. News & World Report by the National Opinion Research Center at the University of Chicago. The rankings are based upon a survey of board-certified physicians around the country, patient survival data and various indicators such as the ratio of certain specialists to inpatient beds.

“We are very proud of this distinction that recognizes the dedication and commitment of MD Anderson faculty, staff, volunteers, patients and community partners,” said Dr. John Mendelsohn, MD Anderson’s president. “There are more than 6,000 hospitals in the United States, and only 168 rank in the U.S. News ‘Best Hospitals’ survey. This national recognition reinforces our commitment to continue moving forward in the conquest of cancer.”

Created by the Texas Legislature in 1941, MD Anderson is now experiencing a period of unprecedented growth. Key indicators include:
• Hospital admissions exceeded 17,000 last year. Outpatient clinic visits, treatments and procedures topped 448,000.
• A record-breaking $86.9 million in private philanthropy was secured last year.
• Research expenditures increased 17.5 percent from fiscal year 1999 to fiscal year 2000 – up from $155.1 million to $182.2 million.
• The MD Anderson campus expanded with the opening last year of a 13-story office center housing 1,700 faculty and staff and a 198-room expansion of the Jesse H. Jones Rotary House International patient/family hotel.
• Construction is under way on a 505,000-square-foot high-tech Basic Sciences Research Building and a 132,000-square-foot research building on the nearby South campus.
• Ground will be broken later this month on a seven-story Ambulatory Clinical Building which will move several clinical services away from the main hospital/clinic complex.

Area Hospitals Issue A Challenge - Give Blood

8/2/2001 12:00:00 AM

Orlando, Fla. (August 2, 2001) --- With blood donations decreasing nationally, Florida Hospital, Orlando Regional Healthcare, Health Central and Central Florida Regional Hospital came together today to announce a campaign designed to increase and sustain blood donations in our community.

The four major healthcare systems kicked off a "Corporate Challenge" – an initiative to inspire business leaders to encourage employees to donate blood, increase the number of on-site drives, and raise the number of donors in their organization.

Local CEOs were asked to sign a "Pledge Card," which provides information on the donor history of their company, and states their commitment to improve participation at their organizations.

“With the challenge issued today, if area companies hold at least four blood drives throughout the year and recruit 15 percent of their workforce to donate, we could successfully provide an adequate blood supply to our community all year round,” said Anne Chinoda, vice president and chief operating officer of Central Florida Blood Bank.

Central Florida Blood Bank research shows corporate blood drives provide the best source of both new donors and increasing the frequency of existing donors.

"Our community has been very generous and steady in blood donation,” said John Hillenmeyer, president and CEO of Orlando Regional Healthcare. "However, the demand for blood is greater than the base of regular donors. The success of this community initiative is contingent upon donations. New techniques and life-saving surgeries are requiring us to use even more blood than in years past. We need more consistent help from our community to increase donations."

The need for blood is especially important now that U.S. Food and Drug Administration have recommended tighter restrictions to protect the blood supply from mad-cow disease. These restrictions could eliminate up to eight percent of donors.

"Now is the time to act before we find ourselves in a severe shortage like we`ve seen in other states,” said Rich Reiner, senior vice president of Florida Hospital. “Hospitals are the biggest user of blood and we are encouraging all of our employees to give blood. We know how much our employees give of themselves each day, and now we`re asking them to give one of the greatest gifts one person can give to another – the gift of life."

Central Florida Blood Bank has been the sole provider of the blood and blood products for Greater Orlando hospitals for more than 55 years. The not-for-profit organization provides more than 200,000 pints of blood each year - donated entirely by volunteers - and remains the largest independent blood bank in Florida, serving 17 countries and more than 50 healthcare facilities statewide.

Orlando Regional Healthcare Named One of "Healthcare`s Most Wired"

7/31/2001 12:00:00 AM

Orlando, Fla. (July 31, 2001) --- Orlando Regional Healthcare has been named one of the nation`s 100 "Most Wired" hospitals and health care systems by Hospitals and Health Networks, the journal of the American Hospital Association.

The award is based on a survey that polled the nation`s health care systems on their use of Internet technologies to connect with patients, physicians and nurses, payers, health plans and employees. This is the first time Orlando Regional has been named to the list.

"We are honored to be the only Central Florida health care organization chosen among the 100 Most Wired," said Cathy Hoechst, vice president of Orlando Regional`s Information Services.

More than 280 organizations, representing 1,177 hospitals, responded to the survey, developed by Hospitals & Health Networks, Deloitte Consulting and McKessonHBOC.

The survey found that the "Most Wired" hospitals have better control of expenses, higher productivity, and provided more Internet-based services for doctors, nurses, patients and employees. Also, the survey concluded that less-wired hospital systems will continue to lag behind in technology investments.

The 100 "Most Wired" are named in the July 2001 issue of Hospitals & Health Networks. For more, read "The Big Payback" at www.hhnmag.com.

Orlando Regional Healthcare Names Women’s Ambassador

7/23/2001 12:00:00 AM

Orlando, Fla. (July 23, 2001) --- Anne Peach, chief operating officer for MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando, has been named Women’s Ambassador for Orlando Regional Healthcare.

In addition to her role at MD Anderson – Orlando, Peach will serve as a champion for women’s health throughout the organization and as a liaison for women in Central Florida. Also, she will be a spokeswoman to various women’s groups about services offered through Orlando Regional Healthcare.

Additionly, Peach serves as the women’s ambassador on Orlando Regional’s Women’s Advisory Committee. She brings advice, recommendations, concerns and issues from the committee to the hospital’s administration.

MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando Announces New Appointments

7/23/2001 12:00:00 AM

Orlando, Fla. (July 20, 2001) --- Jose E. Sarriera, M.D. and Jennifer Tseng, M.D., have joined the medical staff of MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando.

Dr. Sarriera, whose specialty is leukemia, lymphoma and multiple myeloma, is board certified in internal medicine and board eligible in medical oncology and hematology.

Dr. Sarriera completed his internal medicine training at Barnes-Jewish Hospital Washington University, Saint Louis. Most recently, He completed a fellowship in medical oncology and hematology at the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center in Houston.

Dr. Sarriera received a medical degree from the University of Puerto Rico School of Medicine and a bachelor’s in biology from the University of Notre Dame.

Dr. Tseng – whose specialty is thoracic and head and neck cancers – is board certified in internal medicine and board eligible in medical oncology and hematology.

Dr. Tseng has been recognized for her research in the areas of lung cancer, head and neck cancer, fragile X syndrome, and paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria. She has published in the journals Cancer Research and Cancer, and has made presentations at the annual meetings of the American Society of Clinical Oncology, American Association of Cancer Researchers and American Society of Hematology.

Most recently, Dr. Tseng completed a fellowship in medical oncology and hematology at the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center and residency at Duke University Medical Center. She received a medical degree from Duke University School of Medicine and holds a bachelor’s in behavioral biology from Johns Hopkins University. Dr. Tseng is a member of the American Society of Clinical Oncology.

ORMC Cardiology Named One Of Nation`s Best By U.S.News & World Report

7/13/2001 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, Fla. – July 13, 2001 – When it comes to mending broken hearts, Orlando Regional Medical Center (ORMC) was ranked as one of "America`s Best Hospitals," by U.S.News & World Report for the third time in four years.

Out of 50 hospitals ranked nationwide, ORMC placed 17th in the nation in cardiac care The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston placed 2nd in the nation for cancer care. MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando is the first outreach facility of MD Anderson Houston and shares treatments, education, research, technology and advancements in the fight against cancer.

The twelfth annual "America`s Best Hospitals" appears in the July 23 issue of U.S.News & World Report, available on newsstands July 16. After reviewing 6,116 hospitals nationwide, only 1,878 met the publication`s criteria for further assessment. Of the 1,878 hospitals assessed, only 168 scored high enough to be ranked in 17 specialty categories.

To be eligible for ranking in any of the 17 specialties, a hospital had to meet at least one of three standards: affiliation with a medical school, membership in the Council of Teaching Hospitals, or provide at least 9 out of 17 prescribed technological services.

Pediatric Resident Practices the Art of Medicine

7/6/2001 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, Fla. (July 6, 2001) --- As a doctor at Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children & Women, John Saito uses a stethoscope and other specialized instruments during patient exams. As an artist, the third-year pediatric resident uses oil on canvas to capture the warm and personable side of medicine.

"The warmth in the human interaction is powerful medicine when healing patients," said Saito.

Through his collection of paintings, Art in Medicine, Saito hopes to illustrate his personal experience while also helping people understand more about different fields of medicine.

Saito`s Art in Medicine collection will be featured in his first solo exhibition at the Downtown Orange County Public Library. The two-month long exhibit, which began July 1, will feature the following works of art: "Surgery – Teacher and Pupil," "Pediatrics – First Encounter," and "A Doctor`s Love." "Surgery – Teacher and Pupil" depicts the passing on of knowledge from one doctor to another, "Pediatrics – First Encounter," shows a doctor holding a newborn patient for the first time, and "A Doctor`s Love" captures a doctor embracing a young patient with leukemia.

"Medicine is pretty much known for the science and the technology," said Saito. "When a patient visits the doctor, it is the doctor`s responsibility to treat the disease with science and the person with respect and empathy."

For Saito, day-to-day experiences with patients is enlightening professionally and inspiring personally. Because he has painted real-life images from his medical career for six years, Saito is able to see his growth as a physician – the spectrum of emotions during various cases, and an artist – the richness of colors and tones.

Though the challenge of being a doctor requires a high level of commitment, Saito finds time for painting because it provides a balance in his life.

"People would tell me I had to choose one profession – a doctor or an artist," said Saito. "They said the two are not related. I have found a way to make the two come together. Practicing medicine is the inspiration that allows me to paint. Doing both allows me to become a better person overall, which helps me become a better doctor."

Tips From Arnold Palmer Hospital For A Safe 4th of July

6/27/2001 12:00:00 AM

Orlando, Fla. (June 26, 2001) --- The Fourth of July is a day of celebration and fun in the sun, but many activities require extra care in order to prevent injury or illness.

Linda Ammon, registered dietician at Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children & Women and Tammy Horvath, Orange County SAFE KIDS coordinator, led by Arnold Palmer Hospital, offer the following tips to keep your family safe this Fourth of July:

Picnic Safety
* Never leave meat, poultry, seafood, eggs or other perishable foods in a hot car. Take a cooler along. If food cannot be kept chilled, use non-perishable items such as individual cans of tuna or chicken.
* Don’t let juices from raw meat, poultry and seafood drip on other foods.
* Always wash your hands with soap and hot water for twenty seconds before preparing food and also after handling raw meat, poultry, seafood and eggs.
* Never put cooked food on a plate that first held raw meat, poultry and seafood. Never use the same cutting utensils on raw and cooked foods.
* Cook food thoroughly – ground meats to at least 160 degrees F or until juices are clear, poultry (whole or ground) to 180 degrees F, seafood to 145 degrees F.
* Wash fruits and vegetables well.
* Never leave prepared foods and perishable foods at room temperature longer than two hours.
* Discard leftovers such as custards, puddings, and creamed casseroles.

Fireworks Safety
* Only adults should handle fireworks.
* Have a bucket of water and fire extinguisher handy.
* Discuss safety precautions with your children.
* Read labels and carefully follow directions and warning labels.
* Never use fireworks indoors.
* Be sure spectators are out of range before lighting fireworks.
* Never aim or throw fireworks at another person.
* Never place your face or any other body part over fireworks.
* Never try to re-ignite fireworks that malfunction.
* Never carry fireworks in your pocket.
* Only light fireworks on a smooth, flat surface away from the house, leaves and flammable materials.

Boating Safety
* Always wear U.S. Coast Guard-approved Personal Floatation Device (PFD) when on a boat.
* Never swim in unguarded areas such as canals or ponds.
* Although you can’t “drown-proof” a child, swimming lessons are a must.

By following these simple safety tips, you can ensure this Fourth of July will be a blast for everyone.

Orlando Regional Physician Certified In Hospice & Palliative Medicine

6/26/2001 12:00:00 AM

Orlando, Fla. (June 26, 2001) --- Chad D. Kollas, M.D., has been certified in hospice and palliative medicine by the American Board of Hospice and Palliative Medicine.

He joins more than 800 fellow physicians in North America who have achieved such certification.

Kollas serves as medical director of Symptom Control and Palliative Care at Orlando Regional Medical Center. He is a graduate of Penn State University College of Medicine and Franklin and Marshall College. Previously he received certification from the American Board of Internal Medicine.

Hospice and palliative medicine is an interdisciplinary approach to the study and care of patients with active, progressive, advanced disease for whom the prognosis is limited and the focus of care is quality of life. The discipline recognizes the multidimensional nature of suffering, responds with care that addresses all dimensions and communicates with language that conveys mutuality, respect and interdependence.

Orlando Regional Physician Named To U.S. Air Force Counter-terrorism Role

6/25/2001 12:00:00 AM

Dr. Anthony M. Rizzo, occupational medicine physician for Orlando Regional Healthcare and a United States Air Force (USAF) reservist has been assigned to the Development Center for Operational Medicine (DCOM) at Brooks Air Force Base in San Antonio, Texas.

In this role, Dr. Rizzo will report directly to Lieutenant General Paul K. Carlton, Jr., U.S. Air Force Surgeon General. Col. Rizzo becomes the only USAF reservist assigned to DCOM, which is solely responsible for Air Force counter-terrorism.
Colonel Rizzo leaves command of the 920th Aeromedical Staging Squadron, Patrick Air Force Base. He will continue in his role of providing occupational medical services for Orlando Regional Healthcare to the City of Orlando.

Outpatient Rehab Coordinator Named for South Lake Wellness Rehab

6/19/2001 12:00:00 AM

Orlando, Fla. (June 18, 2001) --- Orlando Regional Healthcare announces the promotion of Amie Moriarty to outpatient rehabilitation coordinator for South Lake Wellness Outpatient Rehabilitation effective immediately.

Moriarty joined South Lake in September 1998 and has contributed to the rehabilitation team as a physical therapist. She received her master’s in physical therapy from Barry University and a bachelor’s in advanced technical studies from Southern Illinois University.

MD Anderson -- Orlando Named to County Dept. of Minority Health

6/19/2001 12:00:00 AM

Orlando, Fla. (June 19, 2001) --- Andrea Bennett, medical office manager for MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando, has been appointed to the Orange County Health Department of Minority Health, Black Women’s Health Coalition.

The appointment, made by Dewey DeLoach administrator for the Orange County Health Department Office of Minority Health, is for a one-year term.

Bennett has worked with MD Anderson – Orlando for 10 years and has been with Orlando Regional Healthcare for 15 years.

The focus of the Black Women’s Health Coalition is to identify disparities in the community that require immediate attention and raise the awareness of these disparities throughout the community through education and community resources.

OB/GYN Residency Program Celebrates Golden Anniversary

6/4/2001 12:00:00 AM

Orlando, Fla. (June 4, 2001) --- The OB/GYN Residency Program at Orlando Regional Healthcare will celebrate its 50th anniversary this month. More than 135 physicians have graduated through the program since it began in 1951.

"Fifty years ago, the only participants in a baby`s birth were the patient, doctor and nurse. As technology advanced and operating rooms evolved into labor, delivery and recovery rooms, we now include family members in the birthing process. But one thing remains constant – health care will always rely on human touch and compassion," said John Hillenmeyer, CEO, Orlando Regional Healthcare.

"This year we celebrate 50 years of caring and concern by our dedicated physicians, nurses, residents and support staff who provide support for families on a daily basis," said Dr. Stephen Carlan, Orlando Regional`s medical director, Obstetrics and Gynecology residency program.

As Central Florida`s only designated teaching hospital, Orlando Regional`s OB/GYN residency program is one of seven residencies, including emergency medicine, internal medicine, orthopedics, pathology, pediatrics and surgery.

The program, which began in 1951, offers a four-year accredited residency program to provide extensive experience leading to board certification. Since the program began, board passage rates have remained at nearly 100 percent. The program has academic affiliations with the University of Florida College of Medicine in Gainesville, the University of Central Florida in Orlando and several local community colleges.

Located on Orlando Regional`s downtown campus, inpatient clinical programs are centered in Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children & Women, Orlando Regional Medical Center and Orlando Regional Lucerne Hospital.

MD Anderson -- Orlando President To Lead State`s Cancer Initiatives

5/30/2001 12:00:00 AM

Orlando, Fla. (May 18, 2001) -- Clarence H. Brown III, President/CEO of MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando, has been appointed chairman of the Cancer Control and Research Advisory Board (C-CRAB) by Governor Jeb Bush for a one-year term.

Dr. Brown has been a member of the council and its executive committee since 1994. Appointed by the governor, members represent public and private agencies, professional associations, cancer centers, universities and consumers.

Dr. Brown, a medical oncologist, is a clinical assistant professor in the Department of Medicine at the University of Florida. Also, he serves as an adjunct professor of medicine in the Department of Blood and Marrow Transplantation at the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando in Houston.

C-CRAB was created by the Florida Legislature in 1979 to advise the governor, state legislature and state agencies on cancer control issues. In addition, the council develops the Florida Cancer Plan, prepares position statements on cancer-related legislation, prepares educational materials on breast and prostate cancer, and allocates funds for research and demonstration projects that address the priorities of the Florida Cancer Plan.

stroke Fair Today At ORMC

5/29/2001 12:00:00 AM

The Second Annual Stroke Fair will be held at 8 a.m., Tuesday, May 29, in the Multipurpose Rooms at Orlando Regional Medical Center, 1414 Kuhl Ave. The event is sponsored by Orlando Regional Healthcare`s Vascular Center and Neuroscience Institute.

Information will be presented on the signs and symptoms of strokes; risk factors; vascular and interventional radiology treatment options; and the role of cholesterol as a significant factor leading to a stroke.

Speakers include:

* Glenn Hennig, Ph.D. -– Stroke Signs and Symptoms;
* David Portee, M.D. -- Stroke and Sexuality;
* Jonathan Greenberg, M. D. -- Brain Aneurysms and Bleeding Complications.

Also, blood cholesterol lipid profiles will be available for $13.50 (by appointment only).

Call Healthline at (407) 648-7899 for more information.

More than 500,000 Americans experience a stroke each year. One in five will suffer a stroke, although two-thirds will survive and regain all or much of their lost abilities through rehabilitation.

Olympic Hero Named Medical Director For National Training Center

5/14/2001 12:00:00 AM

Orlando, Fla. (May 14, 2001) --- Olympic gold medal winner and orthopedic surgeon Dr. Dot Richardson has been named medical director for the USA Triathlon National Training Center at South Lake Hospital in Clermont.

Richardson – who won two gold medals with the U.S. softball team in 1996 and 2000 – will join the medical staff at South Lake Hospital and practice in association with Dr. Michael Ray at the Sports Medicine Institute Group in Clermont.

Most recently, Richardson completed a fellowship with Kerlan-Jobe Orthopaedic Sports Medicine Clinic in Southern California. She holds a medical degree from the University of Louisville and was a resident in orthopedic surgery at the University of Southern California.

Orlando Regional Healthcare and South Lake Hospital, as a joint effort, have developed a sports medicine center next to South Lake`s campus. USA Triathlon, the Olympic governing body for triathlon and duathlon in the U.S., now calls Central Florida home and will conduct training at the new 146-acre campus. Also, the site will serve as the warm-weather training site for the British Olympic Association. Construction for the National Training Center began last fall.

Pediatricians Prescribe Reading As Best Medicine

4/5/2001 12:00:00 AM

Take two books and read them to your child in the evening. That’s the prescription doctors are giving parents of young patients at Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children & Women.

As part of Reach Out And Read (ROR), an innovative national pediatric literacy program, pediatric residents at the hospital’s Pediatric Outpatient Clinic are handing out books to children during well-child visits. Because the clinic serves a variety of socially and economically diverse patients, ROR uses the supportive relationship between parents and their health care providers to help children learn to read.

Starting with the six-month checkup and every checkup to age 5, children receive books that are developmentally, culturally and age appropriate. In the waiting area, volunteers read stories with children and their families as they wait to see their pediatrician. Also, mom and dad receive advice from the doctor about the importance of reading aloud as well as tips on selecting books.

“Reading begins before a child gets to school,” said Emily Aguilar, M.D., a third-year pediatric resident who began the program along with Debbie Andree, M.D., a second-year pediatric resident.
Over the past year and a half, Drs. Aguilar and Andree have enlisted a cadre of their colleagues and hospital staff to work on the project. Faculty advisors, Lloyd N. Werk, M.D., and Sunita Patil, M.D., associate directors of the pediatric outpatient department and pediatricians at Nemours Children’s Clinic, provide additional guidance.

“Through ROR, our volunteers and staff are getting kids excited about reading,” noted Andree. “Many families in our community can’t afford to purchase books and may not realize the importance of early exposure to reading. So, this program is particularly needed in Central Florida and has a positive effect on everyone involved.”

Since the program began in September, more than 3,000 books have been distributed. Annually, the clinic staff sees about 26,000 visits by patients. By the time children enter kindergarten, they should have a home library of at least 10 children’s books.

Reach Out And Read – which originated at Boston City Hospital in 1989 – is designed to improve literacy among children by reaching them at an early age and providing parents with the information, support and materials they need to teach their children about the joys of reading.

Several research studies have concluded that parents who had been given a book and literacy counseling during routine pediatric check-ups were four times more likely to choose book sharing as an activity with their child. As a result, the children have improved oral language and literacy development.

Anyone interested in becoming a volunteer reader – who speaks English, Spanish or French Creole – or who would like to donate new books for children ages 6 months to 5 years should call (407) 841-5111, ext. 1483.

Mayor Proclaims April As Child Abuse Prevention Month

4/4/2001 12:00:00 AM

Orlando, Fla. (April 4, 2001) - Orlando Mayor Glenda Hood and Orlando Magic Player Grant Hill will proclaim April as Child Abuse Awareness Month at 12:15 p.m., Thursday, April 5 at City Hall.

Statistics show:
* Orange County is the number one county in Florida for verified child abuse reports.
* Nationally, Orange County ranks eighth for verified child abuse reports.
* 82 children in Florida died in the last reporting year as a direct result of child abuse.

The Project Prevention Orange and Orange County Child Abuse Prevention Task Force is a collaboration of community agencies, organizations, and individuals dedicated to creating a long-term child abuse prevention plan for Orange County.

The Howard Phillips Center for Children & Families is a cooperative partnership between Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children & Women and numerous public and private agencies throughout the community.

Arnold Palmer Hospital Appoints National Leaders

3/16/2001 12:00:00 AM

ORLANDO, Fla. (March 16, 2001) --- Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children & Women unveiled plans for a national advisory council to complement its future vision designed to meet the needs of children and women worldwide.

After 11 years of service to Central Florida and countless visitors to the area, Arnold Palmer Hospital has become one of the leading healthcare facilities of its kind. Because of the tremendous growth in Central Florida, plans are underway to expand the existing 265,000 square foot Arnold Palmer Hospital to a new one million-square-foot campus.

The site will consist of a new children`s hospital, a dedicated infant`s and women`s hospital, Nemours children`s clinic and an ancillary services building, which will integrate all services and facilities. Connecting these services on one campus will truly make Arnold Palmer Hospital`s approach to healthcare a world-class model. This multiyear construction project is estimated to cost $200 million and could begin as early as next year.

Philanthropic support from the community will play a key role in making these enhancements a reality.

"Because of the magnitude of the expansion, it is imperative to have support and leadership of business and civic leaders nationwide to make our vision a reality," said PGA Professional, Arnold Palmer.

The National Advisory Council (NAC) will lead national fundraising efforts and increase awareness by sharing the Arnold Palmer Hospital story with global audiences. Additionally, NAC will seek out opportunities to integrate innovative customer service initiatives into our unique healthcare model.

"I`m pleased to announce our first official member of the National Advisory Council, Thomas Dattilo, Chairman and CEO of Cooper Tire & Rubber. Tom has been a wonderful friend to me personally, and most importantly, to the hospital. It is an honor to have him work with me on our vision," said Palmer.

A formal announcement of the members of the National Advisory Council will be forthcoming once all members are confirmed.

Teen Xpress Awarded $25,000

3/5/2001 12:00:00 AM

Orlando, Fla. (March 5, 2001) – The Howard Phillips Center for Children & Families` Teen Xpress program has been awarded a $25,000 grant by the Denver-based Touch `em All Foundation.

Teen Xpress provides onsite medical and psychosocial care to medically neglected and under-served adolescent population of Central Florida. Through health clinics at local schools, and the mobile Teen Xpress unit, adolescents who might not otherwise receive medical or psychological care get the help they need to live healthy lives.

Co-founded by country music singer Garth Brooks, Touch `em All has teamed up with more than 100 Major League Baseball players to provide grants to children`s charities. Players donate specific amounts to Touch `em All for home runs, strikeouts, etc., thus enabling the foundation to make generous donations and grants to non profit organizations that benefit kids.

"This program not only offers healthcare to teens who are sick and have no place to go for care, but it sends a message to teens that this community cares about their well-being," said Lisa Early, director, Howard Phillips Center for Children & Families. "The more the community invests in its children, the more we ensure their successful transition to adulthood."

Sand Lake Hospital Appoints New Executive Director

2/26/2001 12:00:00 AM

Orlando, Fla. (February 14, 2001) - Mark Schaefer has been promoted to executive director of Orlando Regional Sand Lake Hospital.

As executive director, Schaefer is responsible for the overall management and operations of the facility. Areas of responsibility will include clinical and facility operations, general management and administration, finance, business planning, performance improvement, medical staff relations and community relations.

Previously, Schaefer was the administrator for Ancillary Services at Sand Lake Hospital. Schaefer brought 15 years of progressive leadership experience to Orlando Regional Healthcare as a management engineer, manager, director and administrator.

Schaefer holds a bachelor`s degree in industrial and operations engineering from the University of Michigan and a master`s in business administration from Crummer Business School, Rollins College.

Governor Appoints Orlando Regional Lucerne Hospital Manager To State Board

2/23/2001 12:00:00 AM

Orlando, Fla. (February 6, 2001) - Governor Jeb Bush has appointed Suyrea Reynolds, Integrated Services and Transitional Care Center manager at Orlando Regional Lucerne Hospital, to the State of Florida Board of Nursing Home Administrators. The Board licenses and regulates nursing home administrators.

Reynolds brings 13 years experience as a licensed nursing home administrator serving skilled nursing facilities in Central Florida. Her expertise includes serving district and state levels within the Florida Health Care Association, which represents nursing homes to the state legislature. Additionally, Reynolds was instrumental in developing the first HIV/AIDS unit in a Central Florida skilled nursing facility in 1993.

Non-surgical Treatment For Uterine Fibroids Offering Promise To Women Facing Hysterectomies

2/23/2001 12:00:00 AM

Orlando, Fla. (February 6, 2001) --- A promising non-surgical treatment for uterine growths - and an alternative to hysterectomy for many women - is available at Orlando Regional Medical Center (ORMC).

Known as Uterine Artery Embolization (UAE), the procedure offers patients a simpler and safer treatment choice without the usual risks of surgery. Fibroids - benign growths that usually have few symptoms - can cause abdominal swelling, excess menstrual bleeding or pain during intercourse. While most don`t require treatment, those that do are removed surgically, either through hysterectomy (in which the uterus is removed) or myomectomy, where fibroids are removed with a 50 percent major-complication rate.

"UAE is a win-win for patients with uterine fibroids," said Dr. Joseph Andriole, medical director, Angio/Interventional Radiology. "Patients can have fibroids successfully removed without undergoing the pain, expense and time associated with surgery."

UAE is a minimally invasive outpatient procedure performed under local anesthesia. Through a small incision in the groin, doctors inject tiny plastic particles (about the size of a grain of sand) through a flexible tube threaded into the pelvis. The particles clog the blood supply to the fibroids. Within six weeks, the fibroids shrink, but almost immediately the symptoms of heavy bleeding and pelvic pain are significantly diminished.

Advantages of embolization include: shorter hospitalizations or outpatient treatment; local anesthesia; faster recovery times; potential fertility preservation; and the ability to treat all uterine fibroids in a single session.

MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando Wins Award

1/25/2001 12:00:00 AM

Orlando, Fla. (January 25, 2001) - MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando recently received the "Best Hospital-Based Outpatient Services" award from Florida Medical Business (FMB). Additionally, John Hillenmeyer, President/CEO of Orlando Regional Healthcare, and Clarence H. Brown III, President/CEO of MD Anderson - Orlando, have been nominated for the Inaugural Readers` Choice Award for Healthcare Industry Leadership.

The Florida Medical Business Healthcare Awards are the only comprehensive, peer-directed awards that recognize individual sectors of the healthcare industry. Award nominations come from the thousands of doctors and healthcare executives who are FMB subscribers.